Discovering Dubai: A Personal Travel Diary

### Discovering Dubai: A Personal Travel Diary

Dubai is a remarkable city that seamlessly blends tradition with modernity, offering visitors a rich tapestry of experiences, from bustling markets to stunning skylines. I recently had the pleasure of exploring this vibrant city with my wife and 15-year-old son, uncovering both its iconic landmarks and hidden gems. I am excited to share our journey and insights with you!

#### Immersing in Al Rigga and Al Karama

Our adventure began in the charming neighbourhoods of Al Rigga, Deira, and Al Karama, where the soul of old Dubai truly comes alive. Al Rigga, a lively district, is filled with shops, cafés, and restaurants that reflect the city's diverse culture. The enticing aromas of spices and grilled meats wafted through the air, inviting us into local eateries. We savoured delicious Middle Eastern cuisine, with shawarma stands and falafel shops standing out as highlights of our culinary exploration.

As we meandered through the local souks, we were captivated by colourful markets brimming with textiles and handcrafted souvenirs. Engaging in friendly banter while bargaining (a must!) with shopkeepers added to the experience, and we left with unique treasures to commemorate our trip. In the evenings, we enjoyed the vibrant night markets, where we discovered great value food options, including delightful noodles and Asian cuisine.

Just a short walk away, Al Karama offered its own array of delights. This neighbourhood is known for its vibrant street art and a strong sense of community, which made me feel deeply connected to the local culture. I spent hours exploring the textile markets, where I found exquisite fabrics and engaged with passionate vendors.

After six days of immersion in the local culture, we relocated to Dubai Marina, where we embraced relaxation and sunshine. We enjoyed top-notch gyms, indulged in international cuisine, lounged by hammam pools, and took evening strolls along the marina, creating cherished family memories.

#### Culinary Highlights: A Blend of Experiences

Throughout our time in Dubai, we were fortunate to experience an impressive range of dining options, from high-end restaurants to beloved local spots. One highlight was indulging in a lavish brunch at C’est La Vie at The Address Downtown, where breathtaking views complemented exquisite dishes. The luxurious ambiance made it a memorable experience, with standout items like black cod and saffron risotto.

We also dined at Pai Thai restaurant in Madinat Jumeirah, which offered a picturesque setting and delectable Thai cuisine. The transportation along the Madinat waterways added an enchanting touch, enhancing our meal with stunning surroundings.

Another exceptional experience was at the revolving restaurant at the Hyatt on Dubai Creek, where the tables rotate around the creek, providing stunning views while we enjoyed delicious food.

One of the best discoveries was utilising the ENTERTAINER app to secure fantastic deals at these restaurants—more details on that below!

What truly struck me throughout this culinary journey was the consistently high quality of every meal. The professional customer service enhanced each dining moment, with staff eager to make our experiences enjoyable.

We also discovered Amritsar Punjabi Restaurant in Al Karama, known for its rich and authentic Punjabi dishes at an incredible value—around 180 AED (approximately £12 per person). The lively atmosphere and generous portions made it a great stop value for money casual dining. After dinner we even joined in a friendly game of pool in a public square with some local residents, who generously shared their insights on the best things to do in Dubai.

The following day, we ventured to Sonamu, a fantastic Korean barbecue restaurant at the Asiana Hotel in Deira. The melt-in-your-mouth dishes and generous portions—totalling 350 AED for three people—were worthy of any high-end London restaurant.

For quick bites, I discovered excellent options at Marks & Spencer and Spinneys supermarkets, found in most malls, including Marina Mall and Dubai Mall. Their delis offer a variety of fresh and tasty prepared meals, perfect as satisfying snacks on the go.

#### Shopping Extravaganza

For those looking for retail therapy, Dubai boasts an impressive array of shopping malls. The Dubai Mall, one of the largest in the world, is a shopper's paradise, featuring hundreds of shops ranging from luxury brands to popular high-street labels. It’s easy to lose track of time exploring this vast space, which also includes attractions like the Dubai Aquarium and an indoor ice rink.

Another fantastic shopping destination is the Mall of the Emirates, where you can shop and hit the slopes at Ski Dubai, an indoor ski resort. The variety of dining options in both malls allows you to refuel after a long day of shopping, sampling cuisines from around the globe.

For those willing to venture a short 20-minute trip outside of Dubai centre, I highly recommend the Dubai Outlet Mall for bargain hunters. Here, you can find designer goods at discounts of 50 to 60%, making it an excellent choice for high-end items at a fraction of the original price.

If you’re considering purchasing jewellery, Dubai is the place to do it. Whether you’re after a gold ring or a diamond, the options are plentiful. I personally recommend the Gold and Diamond Park (near the Mall of the Emirates) for its convenience, with many shops under one roof. For a more authentic experience, visit the Gold Souk in the evening. Surprisingly, you can often find great prices at Dubai International Airport as well.

Whether indulging in retail therapy or exploring the city’s rich cultural and culinary experiences, Dubai’s diverse shopping venues have something for everyone.

#### A Must-Visit: Global Village

One activity you simply cannot miss, especially from April to October, is a visit to Global Village. This vibrant attraction offers a unique opportunity to experience food from around the world, showcasing various cuisines and cultures. You can enjoy live shows, performances, and themed pavilions representing different countries. It’s a fantastic way to spend an evening, sampling dishes, shopping for unique souvenirs, and soaking up the festive atmosphere. We particularly enjoyed the traditional shawarma and, of course, the theatre of turkish ice cream stalls.

#### Accommodation: A Comfortable Stay

During our visit, we chose to split our stay between two districts to enjoy the best of both worlds, old and new. Our first six days were spent in a spacious two-bedroom apartment at Marriott Exec Apartments Al Rigga, which represented excellent value for money.

We then stayed at Grosvenor House in Dubai Marina, which shares beach facilities with its sister hotel, Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort. The two towers offer a range of luxury rooms and serviced apartments ideal for larger groups. The attentive customer service made our stay enjoyable, and it felt more intimate than larger resort-oriented hotels. The friendly staff ensured that all our needs were met.

#### Navigating Dubai: The Metro Advantage

One of the most valuable travel tips we discovered was to utilise the Metro system. It’s not only fast and convenient but also an affordable way to navigate the city. Instead of spending up to 45 minutes stuck in traffic trying to reach a mall, we found that taking the Metro saved us time and hassle.

The fare for using the Metro is incredibly budget-friendly, often starting at just 3 dirhams for a single journey. The clean and efficient system made our travel experience enjoyable, with dedicated female and children carriages and the views from the Metro provided a unique perspective of the city. Metro stations tend to service major sites, attractions, or districts, but it’s worth noting that you may still need to catch an Uber or taxi to reach your final destination, however you will save some money by taking the metro.

To make travel even easier, we recommend getting a Nol card, which allows for seamless access to the Metro and other public transport options. Planning our route in advance helped me navigate the system with ease, and traveling during off-peak hours made for a more comfortable ride.

#### Money-Saving Tip: The ENTERTAINER App

For those looking to save on dining and attractions, I highly recommend purchasing the ENTERTAINER app for around 450 dirhams. This app offers numerous buy-one-get-one-free deals on meals and attractions, making it a fantastic investment. We saved approximately 1500 dirhams after purchasing the app, significantly enhancing our overall experience without breaking the bank.

#### Alcohol

Alcohol is widely available in hotels and many restaurants, but it’s worth noting that it can be pricey—similar to prices in London these days. If you’re in an apartment or Airbnb that allows it, you can purchase alcohol from various licensed shops at reasonable prices. I visited African & Eastern one day and found a nice bottle of Sauvignon Blanc for 58 AED, about £12. Just remember to respect local customs and no consumption of alcohol in public spaces.

#### Conclusion

Our journey through Dubai was a delightful blend of exploration, culinary experiences, and breathtaking views. From the vibrant streets of Al Rigga and Al Karama to the incredible dining options, we were captivated by the rich culture and history of this magnificent city—and you don’t have to break the bank to enjoy it!

In the evenings, we took leisurely walks along Dubai Marina, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere, and strolled along the Jumeirah Beach Walk, people watching, and taking in the sights. There were plenty of dining options in these locations, making them perfect spots to unwind.

Of course you can visit Dubai’s beaches, add a trip to the top of the Burj Khalifa offering breathtaking views of the city, include iconic Palm Islands known for their luxurious resorts. Each of these experiences adds to the allure of this incredible city, and I highly recommend them for anyone visiting.

Utilising the ENTERTAINER app and the Metro system made our travels efficient and budget-friendly, allowing us to maximise our time. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveller, Dubai has something for everyone, regardless of your budget. I eagerly look forward to our next visit!

If you would like details on any activities, names of places to visit, how to get around, or even assistance in booking a holiday, please don’t hesitate to reach out. I'm here to help you plan an unforgettable adventure in Dubai!

Gian