Joanna James
Dubai is a city that attracts innumerable tourists each year and provided below is some useful information for visitors, regarding the city's culture, food, dress code, taxis and so on.
Although skyscrapers and modernity may come to mind when thinking about Dubai, in actual fact, this emirate inherits a rich cultural legacy. For an authentic cultural experience, make your way to the souks flanking Dubai Creek. You will see that merchants from across the Middle East converge here to sell their goods just as they would have in the past. You will have the opportunity to bargain for Iranian trinkets, Omani silver creations, Saudi Arabian dates and so on. Also, make sure to check out the splendid Gold Souk.
As you might expect in a city containing a vast expatriate community originating from many different countries, the local cuisine is representative of many diverse nations in Dubai. Here, you will find restaurants, both upscale and affordable, offering delicious dishes of a bewildering selection of nationalities. For affordable culinary treats, head over to the Bur Dubai locality where you may have your fill of Iranian, Yemeni, Filipino, Pakistani, Indian, Bangladeshi and Afghan foods.
Although the United Arab Emirates happens to be an Islamic nation, its culture is not too conservative. It is acceptable to dress as you might in a European country, with skirts and shorts commonly worn by tourists, though nothing too short in length. Ladies do not also have to cover their hair. On the other hand, bringing a cover-up would be a very good idea, as the air-conditioning in shopping malls could be rather cool. You will also need it to visit religious attractions such as Jumeirah Mosque.
The malls of Dubai are generally very interesting to visit as in addition to innumerable shopping options, they offer additional features such as ice rinks, aquariums, cinemas, ski slopes and more. Palm Jumeirah hotels make an ideal choice of accommodation from which you could visit many of these malls; this includes the popular Mall of the Emirates located within easy reach of Avani Palm View Dubai Hotel & Suites.
Foreigners can enjoy alcoholic drinks in Dubai, although they may only be purchased at venues like hotel restaurants, clubs and bars. You will find an array of 'watering holes' to choose from, including everything from upscale champagne bars to pubs featuring live music. However, you should not be excessively drunk as you walk home or catch a taxi as this is not considered to be acceptable and could attract attention from the police.
Taxis would be a great way to get about in Dubai. Although the metro will be cheaper, some of its stations are not in the most convenient positions. Therefore, relatively inexpensive taxis will probably be the travel mode of choice in Dubai.
It is not considered acceptable to show signs of affection like kissing in public in Dubai. This will include settings like the beach, hotel restaurants, nightclubs, in taxis and so on. To avoid trouble, refrain from kissing and other displays of affection when in public.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
