When the sun is shining and the weather is bright, there is only one thing we can all think about. Vacation, vacation, vacation. Am I right? I'm really excited to kick off a new series and welcome a guest blogger - A.K.S. Those are her initials and all that you have to know. She is a jet-setting, high-styling, girl about town(s) who loves to travel, eat, shop, meditate, and share her tales. Lucky for us, she will be sharing her non-tourist, tourist guides to some of the most exotic and fun destinations around the globe. Oh, I should mention, she is also a devoted fan of Tim Horton's and PC The Decadent chocolate chip cookies. Today, AKS kicks off her travel notes series with a Top 10 MUST DO in the Middle East's Sin City & 'it" destination - DUBAI. Hope you enjoy her fantastic recommendations!
Hello jet setters! Spring has sprung and we are all eager to shed our layers and frolic in the sun. If you're looking for a fun place to take the family, think Dubai. The small Emirate is a hot spot where 10 months out of the year, you can enjoy the beach, catch some bustling nightlife, experience different cultures and shop til you drop. There is a lot to explore in Dubai. Here is my top ten list of things to do while visiting:
1. Visit the Burj Khalifa. This is the tallest building in the world. It makes the Empire State building look like it's younger sibling. The views and ride to the top are breath taking. Tickets can be bought at the Dubai Mall.
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2. Experience sunset at 360 Lounge at the Jumeirah Beach hotel. The name says it all; a circular view of Dubai from the middle of the Arabian Gulf. The water surrounding the lounge is soothing, not to mention their cocktails! The music and chic vibe will make you want to stay well after the sun goes down.
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3. Boat ride down the Dubai Creek. You can rent your own boat, for the equivalent of 15 dollars with your own driver. You'll get the feel of Dubai before the high rise buildings. Enjoy the ride!
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4. Gold Souk, one of the most famous Gold markets in the world. Experience the wide variety and abundance of yellow goodness.
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5. Aqua venture at Atlantis, the Palm. A wonderful way to enjoy some sun and water in a family water park. One ride even takes you into an enclosed Shark tank. Enjoy lunch and cool cocktails by the poolside. Plus point, you get to enjoy the Atlantis beach front without paying the heavy price of staying at the resort.
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6. Desert safari. More like desert roller coaster! Have fun riding the sand dunes followed by a fun camel ride. There are Dune buggies and Land Cruisers with drivers that can take you in this incredible adventure. Be sure to eat a light breakfast!
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7. Dubai Mall, one of the largest malls in the world. Packed with hundreds of stores, an ice skating rink, a waterfall and fabulous eateries. This is a must see. Notable retailers include: Bloomingdale's, Galleries La Fayette, Hermes, Christian Laboutin, Ted Baker, Reiss, Massimo Dutti, Tory Burch, TopShop, Marc by Marc Jacobs, Chanel, Dior and Paris Gallery.
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8. Souk al Bahar. Just across the bridge from Dubai Mall, a marketplace filled with shops and some of Dubai's finest restaurants. Enjoy your meal outdoors and catch a close view of the Burj Khalifa and be sure to watch the half hourly dancing fountain show. Delicious dining experiences await you at Bice Mare, Mango Tree, Urbano or Dean and Deluca.
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9. Neos Bar at the Address Hotel. Sip on a Mojito on the 63rd floor and take in the fantastic bird's eye view of Dubai. Enjoy people and outfit watching!
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10. Last but not least, Bubbalicious Brunch at the Westin. A decadent Friday afternoon should be spent here. Sip on all you can drink champagne, enjoy some jazz and indulge on cuisine from three of the hotels exclusive restaurants all while enjoying the beach view. Not a bad way to relax?
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Gotten bit by the travel bug yet? Book your flight, Emirates and Etihad Airways offer several direct flights. Bon Voyage!!!
