Joanna James
The sprawling desert city of Dubai is host to a new and exciting influx of galleries, shopping complexes, and cultural institutions all waiting to be explored. Read on to find out more.
Arguably the most entertaining of all the city's souks, the sprawling spice market is rife with intoxicating sights and smells. Many of the vendors incidentally tend to sell the same ingredients saffron, Persian dried limes, rose hips, barberries, and the traditional Middle Eastern spices. Saffron also happens to be more affordable here than anywhere else in Dubai. There are also plenty of stalls that sell everything from souvenirs, clothes to handmade lanterns. Additionally, there are numerous restaurants with both indoor and outdoor seating options to choose from. The souk is free to enter by keep in mind parking will cost extra. The Dubai spice souk can also be reached from most hotels in Dubai Deira including the likes of Avani Deira Dubai Hotel with ease as well.
Curious about how Dubai might have looked and felt before the mass growth and modernisation? Then make your way to the Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood. Here traditional buildings crafted from palm wood, stone, gypsum, and teak still stand tall along the twisted pathways and alleys of this neighborhood, and is the haunt of visiting architecture and history buffs. The neighborhood certainly offers a welcome respite from the incessant bustle of the traffic and the skyscraper-strewn vistas of the city. The labyrinth of lands almost makes one feel like one is exploring a secluded village.
The Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building is unsurprisingly visible from almost every corner of Dubai. While taking the site is thrilling enough down from the street, paying a visit to the very top of the 160-story building is altogether different. Brace yourself for the thrill of high-speed elevators, followed by the panoramic vistas that will greet you upon stepping onto the observation deck. Buying tickets online well in advance for a specific time slot is highly advised.
Extremely reminiscent of Miami beach, Dubai's Kite Beach is home to a wide stretch of clean sands, delightfully blue water, comfy beach chaises, and enough activities to make one feel almost guilty to just confine oneself exclusively for a spot of sunbathing. Kite Beach is definitely for ardent beach lovers, Here one can, weather and heat levels permitting one to enjoy a fun and competitive game of beach volleyball, kitesurf, go for a jog or run on the running track bordering the beach.
Considered to be the largest waterpark in the world, thanks to a recent refurbishment and extension, the Aquaventure Waterpark contains more than 3- attractions and slides, including some thrilling rides, the emirates longest lazy river, and a private beach. There are close-up and personal interactions to be had with sea lions, dolphins, and stingrays.
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.
