A Destination that Dazzles You - Dubai

High rise buildings, swanky cars and massive malls were the sights which met my eyes as I gazed through the  window on the 40th floor of my plush room at JW Marriot Marquis Hotel Dubai.The 72 Storied hotel, which is the tallest in the world, is an epitome of luxury and class. And, as I basked in the opulence that enveloped me, I couldn't help contain my excitement about exploring all that this flamboyant city had to offer.
We started out with the very famous must do- the Desert Safari. The most thrilling part of the Safari is the dune bashing. Multiple SUVs race against each at high speeds over sand dunes to provide an adventurous experience. What followed was an Arabian Nights fantasy come true- colorful tents, lights, barbeque, sheesha, belly dancers- the works!

Burj Khalifa
On the way back to hotel, the SUV cruised at120 KM/Hr and we ogled at the Dubai skyline shimmering against the cloudless sky. While everyone was raving about the picturesque skyscrapers, lo and behold, there it was standing tall and twinkling- the towering 828, beauty, the tallest building in the world- the 'Burj Khalifa'. One glimpse was enough to captivate us all; the chatter in the car subsided as all eyes were glued to the khalifa. It was a sight so enchanting, it's indescribable. As the car veered off, the Khalifa kept eluding us, as though playing peekaboo and teasing us, leaving us wanting for more- to gaze as it for one last time.

The architectural masterpiece housing 19 residential towers, nine hotels and the Dubai Mall. En route  the top captures the history and making of Khalifa. You will be taken to 124th floor in an elevator in just 6o seconds! And the panoramic view of Dubai from top is breathtaking. There is a photo studio where you can have your pictures clicked in comical poses, which would then be superimposed against the backdrop of the beautiful Burj Khalifa.

Ferrari World
Another must-do is to visit the world's largest indoor theme park - Ferrari World situated in Abu

Dhabi- 45 minutes from Dubai. The post air conditioned park is large enough to explore the 20 attractions; the prime one being formula Rossa- the world's fastest roller coaster. It is said to have same G force one would feel while driving an F1 car. The average waiting time for this ride is 45 minutes. Safety goggles are provided there for safety of eyes. The maximum speed of this amazing roller coaster is 240 km/hr and it goes till 52 metres high in the air. Definitely people scream there but not sure out of excitement or fear. Fiorano GT is another ride there where two competing coasters race to the finish line. On the way out there is a Ferrari Store where some exorbitant souvenirs can be bought to commemorate Ferrari adventure.

Dubai Mall
Dubai Mall is the largest shopping mall of the world with more than 1200 shops and is considered a shopping paradise. Even if you do not shop because of the steep prices, you must visit the mall to experience the sheer magnificence of the mall, which also has an aquarium, an ice skating rink, a theme park and a waterfall!! Outside the mall is the world's largest choreographed fountain show before the Burj Khalifa similar to the fountain at the Bellagio Hotel in Vegas.

Street Shopping in Dubai
Dubai has something for street shoppers too. Mina Bazaar houses many discount stores for perfume, bags, electronics etc. There are number of Jewelry shops where one can bargain while buying gold unlike at the Gold Souk. There would be number of agents forcing you to have a look at the array of second hand products like watches, bags and glares at delightful low prices.




Flights to Dubai are very cheap and available on sites like www.expedia.com, www.yatra.com, www.travelocity.com, www.travelmasti.com, www.travelguru.com, www.priceline.com