Dubai, 2011 and 2014

Dubai's Skyline

Dubai, 2011 and 2014

When we first landed in Dubai, I knew I would be witnessing state-of-the-art construction and technology with the world’s tallest building, Burj Khalifa, and the world’s first seven-star hotel, Burj Al Arab. I was really awed by the magnanimous structures and the beautiful architecture. One can go on and on about how beautiful Dubai is, and when many parts of the city stand on artificially built land.

Burj Khalifa

Burj Khalifa stands tall and marks an amazing landmark! The view from the 124th floor, is jaw-dropping.  New Years celebrations with world-class fireworks and different lighting sequences that are choreographed by professionals, are to be remembered.

Burj Al Arab

Burj Al Arab is another amazing structure and is designed to resemble the sail of a ship. It is said to have world-class restaurants and an amazing aquarium. We were lucky to see few gold souks… with impeccable workmanship and the number of glitters that were everywhere, one can only feel the richness of Dubai.

Not only did we witness the gold shops, but there were also ATM machines with gold bars!

When we visited Miracle Garden, we were amazed by the way they had maintained and how beautiful and delicate the garden looked in the hot and scorching heat. It was an incredible experience to see the entire garden come to life with beautiful garden landscapes and flowers grown from different parts of the world. 

Stingrays at Atlantis

When I heard about a Palm Jumeirah, it’s difficult to imagine an entire island built on an artificially made land!! Palm Jumeirah, is where Atlantis is and is built in the shape of a palm tree from an aerial view, it is a landmark by itself and is a synonym for luxury.

Atlantis at  Palm Jumeirah and Miracle Garden

Installation at Dubai Mall

Dubai Mall is the largest mall in Dubai. It has the largest Aquarium and Underwater Zoo in the world. One can experience shark feeding and other amazing sea creatures and marine lifestyles. Dubai Mall has a wide range of entertainment and is a shoppers paradise with fine dining experiences. The fountain show at the Dubai Mall is breathtaking. The show is beautifully choreographed with precise movement and with the latest numbers. 

Dolphinarium 

Dolphins at their act

When you see the most intelligent animal being trained to perform the most amazing trick, its a treat to your eyes. It’s not just dolphins who put up an amazing show, there are seals whose entertainment is so charming. The trainers make it look so easy, and are precise in listening to them!

Desert Safari

Desert Safari 

An experience that was so different. Although the weather was so HOT, the ocean of sand and dunes made up for it! I have seen beautiful landscapes, mountain-scapes, sea-scapes, snow-scapes….but, seeing dessert-scape was an experience….the beautiful horizon divided the hues of blues and browns, giving the twilight a touch of Arabic ambiance. 

As we drove on the dunes, we were looking forward to going up and down the sand dunes. Well, that's what dessert safari is all about…driving in the sand, making sure you are at the right speed so that your jeep doesn't get stuck or toppled from a small dune. Well, got to know, the air in the tire should be at the minimum so that the tires don't skid, and hence balance the act. Can't complain about the drive! 

They drop us at the tents, where the ‘dawat’ is waiting with the beautiful ambiance of Arabic music, Belly dancers and fire dancers getting ready for their performances, camels roaming, ladies adorning tourists hands with beautiful intricate Mehendi designs, hookahs and not to forget a picture with Falcon…as close as it gets! And when I say, as close to as it gets, I mean, a Falcon which almost-kisses you on the cheek! We had to say goodbye to the amazing twilight as the night gets more beautiful under the stars.