WHEN IN RO-[DUBAI]
You know as they say... When in Rome... Well, in this case, it's - Dubai is one of the most glamorous and traveled locations currently. The city has shining lights, beautiful landscapes, and a booming economy full of heavy spenders and luxurious lifestyles. Thinking of visiting but not sure where to go or why? Here are 10 reasons through day & night, that will get you booking a flight.
DAY//
1. Since we all know the luxuries that this city holds, why not go shopping? The Dubai Mall has been dubbed the MOST luxurious mall in the world. Complete with an aquarium and the Dubai fountain, not to mention the big name brands such as Cartier, Mcqueen and even Van Cleef!
Ras Al Khor
2. Looking for adventure off the beaten path? Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary is where to go. Ras Al Khor, or "Cape of the Creek" is the wetland home to tens of thousands of migrating birds. The sanctuary is just outside of the bustling city so if you're looking to get away from the noise, this is perfect.
3. Okay so we all know how awesome waterparks are... but imagine visiting a park where you can zipline, feed cownose rays, and swim with sharks in an immersive Shark Lagoon experience... that's right! I said sharks! Find all of this and more at Aquaventure Waterpark.
4. I found the perfect spot for conducting business meeting lunches, and it has got to be Bussola. This restaurant even features a business lunch two course meal that features an ever-changing menu that works with the seasons, how cool is that? Even if you opted to skip the business on this trip, you gotta eat at some point!
5. Number 5 is less of an attraction/event and more of a tip on how to handle business when you're in this lovely little city. According to the Traveler, by Marriott, here are the top 5 mistakes to avoid when you're in Dubai.
- Hard hitting attitude: Skip the Type A ego and adapt to their slow pace meetings.
- Swearing: Ditch the profanity! The Muslim world is intolerant of your swear words and you could even be fined & jailed!
- Left Hand: Your left hand is unclean. Hide that one away during meals, gestures, and handshakes.
- Ramadam: If you decided to visit during Ramadan, eating, drinking, smoking, are against the law to Muslims and non-Muslims too! Don't even think of chewing gum.
- Stiffness: Remember to relax. Dubai is 90% expat which means that the business community is comfortable with just about every culture.
NIGHT//
1. The perfect way to top a light business lunch, in my opinion, is to go for afternoon tea. There's a spot named Al Fayrooz and they have a modern spin on traditional high tea. There's an option to do an afternoon ICED tea session! It features a variety of tea flavors and paris with tarts, sandwiches, and even a chocolate fountain to dip fresh fruit and cake pops.
2. As the sun starts to set, my favorite way to wind down in a new city is with a spa experience that's influenced with new culture. The Awassan Spa at the top of the Burj Al Arab caught my eye. They have everything from caviar facials and body treatments to cold plunge pools and treatment rooms that overlook the Arabian Gulf. Talk about relaxation!
3. I believe in completely immersing yourself into culture during travels. So I chose a restaurant that features Arabic cuisine and has culture / character to last you a lifetime. Al Hadheerah is located in a hidden resort that's surrounded by sand dunes. Not only do they have amazing food, you can enjoy actors riding through on horses, belly dancers and even henna artists.
4. After dinner, head on over to Uptown Bar in the heart of Dubai. Inhabitants include oil-sheiks and Armani clad business men. The bar features a beautiful terrace that lets you soak in the skyline. Order the Uptown Citation Chambord full of black currant marmalade and champagne paired with some truffle honey Manchego cheese for a breath taking evening.
5. Still not tired? Head over to The NineZero at 360 ° to take in the beauty of the city while enjoying a night of local and international DJ's playing iconic and eclectic music. (DJ's like Diplo make appearances here!)
