February 2, 2023
As the sun rose I headed out to explore Dubai.
Dubai is famous for its soaring skyline and unique designs that makes one of the most interesting skylines in the world. In addition to having the tallest building in the world the skyline is full of unique designs.
One of the most iconic buildings is the Burj Al Arab hotel that was designed to look like a sail.
The infinity bridge is a suspension bridge is truly unique. Located in one of the oldest parts of the city, the 12-lane wide, 295m long bridge spans the Dubai Creek.
The Dubai Frame is an observatory, museum, and monument. It holds the record for the largest frame in the world.
Crossing the Dubai creek takes you out of the AO (after oil) part of Dubai and into the BO (before oil) part of Dubai. The waterfront on the creek is full of cargo ships carrying spices from Iran and ferries that carry people across the creek.
We made a stop at the aromatic Spice Souks and the Gold Souk, where everything that glitters is gold. The gold that was displayed in the windows is mainly used as part of the wedding attire. The bride receives a dowry from her future husband and the $15,000 – $60,000 she receives is invested in gold jewelry. The spice souks are so fragrant!!! There were spices I have never heard of. No, I did not buy any since I really do not enjoy bartering plus it is still months till I go home.
Next we drove through the Bastakiya area, one of the oldest areas of Dubai, with the ancient houses bedecked with cooling wind towers. Then we visited the, Shandagha Hertiage Museum where we saw exhibits of Dubai BO (before oil) and visited a perfume house.
Our last stop for the tour was at the Jumeirah Mosque, a example of modern Islamic architecture.
One unique thing I saw along the road was the air conditioned bust stop shelters….only in Dubai!!!
When we got back to the ship there were a few hours left before the “All Board” call so I jumped on the shuttle to the Mall of the Emeritus (I know two malls in two days is a record for me!) to do a quick look at the indoor ski slope and most important the penguins! They had a massive grocery store where I was able to get hair conditioner along with a bag of chips. It is crazy how I am on a ship with multiple restaurants and yet I crave simple food like chips!
Racing back on board, I headed back to my room exhausted after three days of adventuring to have my bag of chips for dinner!!!
Only one sea day to recover then we dock in Muscat, Oman.
Amazing. I am running out of superlatives in what you are writing about. I am so happy for you Mary.
I am also glad that you found a bag of chips 🤪.
Dubai sounds like an interesting place to visit. Air-conditioned bus stops? Okay, maybe a little over the top, but then it is so hot there. Not sure anyone really needs penguins in a mall that sits in the middle of a desert, but who knows. I envy your energy, girl! I would need many more naps than you seem to take. Up before dawn, not back until all-call. So glad you’re having such an adventure and sharing it so beautifully with us. BTW, thank you for including a photo of yourself! Your smiling face tells the story.