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Guest Poster Matilda Lambert describes her top 5 places to visit in Dubai, a city she calls The World’s City.
Dubai is more traditionally known as the stop-over airport for long haul flights all around the world. I myself have stopped over in the airport enough times to advance from my favourite toy store to my favourite casual cafe. But there’s something more to Dubai, something which has been drawing tourists to the area in recent years. Whenever I have a stop over in Dubai, I take a few days out from my trip to revisit the 5 top attractions this amazing city has to offer
Burj Khalifa
You can see Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest tower, from the airport, a full 17 miles from the base. Surrounded by the city’s glitzy downtown area and with enough attractions across its floors for a whole day of exploring, this attraction is impossible to ignore. Certainly, the sight of it peering over the horizon to greet me after a 15 hour flight was enough to blow my tired little mind.
The Grand Mosque
The United Arab Emirates is a liberal Muslim country which applauds and welcomes other cultures, as long as its own is respected. The Grand Mosque, opposite Dubai Museum, is the center of the city’s thriving faith and is a beautiful and poignant sight to behold for anyone. And, of course, it has the world’s tallest minaret to continue the theme of a city, always reaching for the stars. Tourists staying at hotels in Abu Dhabi will always suggest making a day trip to the beautiful city of Dubai since it is only an hour and a half away. There are buses and rental car services that you can find that are cheap and eco-friendly so that you won’t have to worry about leaving your carbon footprint while on vacation.
Deira Covered Souk District
My childhood memories of Dubai’s souks are vivid, with the blur of colours, smells and sounds which were a world away from what I was used to. The products range from souvenirs and import, to spices and gold…so enjoy the authentic experience.
Wild Wadi Water Park
This is a true classic from my younger years, though that wouldn’t stop me now! Attached to the famous Jumeirah Beach Hotel, the Wild Wadi Water Park is open to all, and most hotels in Dubai offer complimentary admission. Kids and adults adore it equally with the huge variety of outdoorslides, pools and rides – and for those less inclined to a white water rapid, the park also provides beautiful seating areas and small private beaches beside the Gulf Sea.
Fine dining in Dubai
Even as a child, I recognised Dubai as the world’s city and my palate has been satisfied every time. Every and any cuisine can be found here, from the all-American Steak House to the traditional British Pub. To mention just one restaurant, or even ten, is to not give the city justice. Explore a new continent’s cuisine every night, or try some of the more traditional fare.
With many more skyscrapers, man-made islands and even an underwater hotel on the blueprints for this city, I can personally vouch that no visit is ever the same as the last; just enjoy this city as it unfolds before your eyes.
Matilda Lambert is an English university student who is lucky enough to travel the world with many unusual adventures. Though often seen on long-haul flights, her true love is for Scandinavia and hopes to move there after her studies.
