Few had thought that a tiny fishing port on the banks of the Persian Gulf would ever succeed, but succeed it has, on an unimaginable scale. Today, Dubai is one of the most hospitable, cosmopolitan metropolis in the world with a mix of all cultures. The most visibly futuristic thing about this city, is of course, its outlandish architecture. This glittering city has literally risen from a desert and sprawled like an oasis in heaven. The visionaries of the city had once truly said "Build it and they will come". It has indeed attracted some of the most adventurous architectural minds to build some of the most extravagant architectural wonders. It is home to some of the most staggering buildings ever built. Those towering structures shine like something from a science fiction block buster. It is home to the tallest building in the world, home to the only 7 star hotel in the world, home to the biggest mall in the world, home to the biggest frame in the world, home to a group of large man made islands, just to name a few. It seems like when the rest of the world decides to build something big, Dubai comes up with something bigger and better. This city has defied all extremes and redefined the concepts of civil engineering. You cannot deny the fact that a very hospitable city has risen from one of the most inhospitable deserts. Welcome to Dubai!
Dubai Miracle Garden (DMG) :
Dubai miracle garden shows the endless possibilities of man-kinds flowering imaginations. The gardens main attraction is a Guinness world record holding display of an Airbus A-380 engulfed in flowers. A couple of hours to explore this place should suffice. Plan your day in such a way that you visit DMG in the evening. It gets really hot during the day and the garden can be best enjoyed when the sun is calm and its intensity is not very harsh.
Skydive Dubai :
Without any doubt, this has to be the best thing that I have ever done. The view of the palm and the city of Dubai from up there was breath-taking. Not just the jump, but the entire experience leading to it was just incredible. The staff was very professional and they knew exactly what they were suppose to do. I thank the entire team at Skydive Dubai; especially my instructor JP and videographer Brittany for this amazing experience and for making me feel super safe.
"The City of Gold" has many things to offer. As far as I'm concerned, no trip to this buzzing and glamorous metropolis is complete without this electrifying expedition. As a matter of fact, I personally consider it to be the biggest and the most captivating highlight of the city.
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Palm Jumeirah and Dubai Marina :
Palm Jumeirah is truly a magical man made wonder. This extravagant archipelago adds several kilometers to the ever expanding Dubai coastline. In the shape of a Palm, this mega structure is definitely a must visit when in Dubai. It is a whole new city built up on sea. It is home to many luxury hotels, residential complexes, malls and villas with private beaches. The access to this island is either via a mono rail or by road. Of course, the best view of the island can be most enjoyed from the sky than by being on it. Opt for a helicopter ride or jump out of a plane to enjoy the best view! For those who are a little less daring, the best option is to take a mono rail to the north tip end of the Palm where the famous Atlantis hotel resides. There are many things to do here. Head into the mall's Lost Chambers aquarium or take a splash in the Aquaventure water park to beat the heat. Hire a cab to visit the crescent ends of the Palm. From the left crescent you can witness the Dubai Marina bay area and on the right you get to see Burj Al Arab in all its glory.
At the Top, Burj Khalifa :
Rising to a height of almost a kilometer into the sky (829.8 m to be precise) is the center piece of Dubai, Burj Khalifa - the tallest building in the world . Every year this gigantic mega structure attracts millions of visitors from all around the world. This skyscraper has 2 observation decks, one on the 124th floor and the other on the 148th floor. Head on to one of the observation decks in its elevators which reach a speed of up to 3 floors per second, witness the sunset and return after seeing the glittering Dubai skyline at night. You will get a 360 degree view of the entire city. The observation deck on the 124th floor also features the electronic telescope, an augmented reality device which allows visitors to view the surrounding landscape in real-time, and to view previously saved images such as those taken at different times of the day or under different weather conditions. This modern wonder is so high that its tip can be seen from many miles away and the sun sets a few minutes later when compared to if you were on ground. Another major attraction at this site is the Dubai fountain show which runs multiple times in the evening to entertain its visitors. It is definitely a treat to watch, both from the Burj's observatory deck and at eye level from the promenade below.
Desert Safari :
The place where this glittering city stands today was once a desert. In a matter of few decades, a vast barren land has turned into one of the world's most sought after places, a transformation which is nothing short of magic. A 60 minute drive outside the city will take you to the desert. It is when you are out here, only one hour away from the world's tallest building that you will truly appreciate how miraculous Dubai is, that in one of the most inhospitable landscapes, one of the most hospitable city flourishes. During the safari, the most fun part is of course a 4 wheel SUV drive on the dunes. The twists and turns will leave you wanting for more. Take a camel ride, witness a desert sunset and settle down in your camp to watch few cultural activities by some really talented artists. Have a delicious barbeque dinner and return after it ends. Whether you are in the city for a couple of days or a week, a journey into the Arabian desert is an experience no visitor should miss.
Dubai Frame :
The future is only a few steps away from the past. This destination proves that with unity,vision and hard work, even the most barren places can grow into a giant. Dubai Frame is the city's latest attraction. From its high observatory platform you can witness the city's past and the present. On one side you get to see the modern high rises and on the other you get a glimpse of the old city.
Evenings at the Beach :
Adjacent to the famous Burj Al Arab is the Jumeirah beach which is one of the most popular public beaches in the city. It offers a beautiful setting to witness a perfect sunset of the Persian gulf. Relax on the beach and feel the cool sea breeze brushing your skin which will put you to sleep or pull out your camera to awaken the budding photographer in you.
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