As we disembarked in Dubai we set off for a whirlwind exploration of this fascinating city. We were with a group of friends, more like family really, and with some packing challenges ahead (beachwear for Seychelles and safari gear for Africa!), our newfound family came to the rescue. They generously provided safari clothes and even transported them to the airport for us – true friends indeed! We also had another set of friends who offered to store our camera and computer equipment until our return. This cruise has definitely brought us all closer!
As soon as we disembarked, we raced to the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building at a staggering 2,717 feet. We zipped up the world’s fastest elevator to the observation deck on the 125th floor, taking in breathtaking views of the sprawling cityscape. This is another amazing architectural marvel and is a testament to what Dubai is all about; it’s a symbol of everything big and flashy.
Next, we ventured to the Museum of the Future, a unique museum focused on the future rather than the past. The stainless-steel, donut-shaped exterior was etched with Arabic calligraphy and housed exhibits on potential future technologies in healthcare, space travel, and climate change solutions. We even got to experience a VR recreation of the Amazon rainforest and chat with a robot!
Dubai Mall, one of the world’s largest malls with over 1,200 stores, was our next stop. We spent hours navigating the vast array of high-end shops like Tiffany’s and Gucci, eventually succumbing to exhaustion after walking nearly 10 miles. Unfortunately the Tiffany rings just weren’t in my size! While Chuck managed to find some Hoka shoes, the hunt for men’s shorts proved unsuccessful.
As evening approached, we enjoyed a delicious meal at Texas Roadhouse with our friends before taking a traditional wooden dhow across Dubai Creek. The Abra ride offered stunning views of the city skyline illuminated by the water and light show.
Our Dubai adventure finished with a redeye flight to the Seychelles on Emirates Airlines. Exhausted but exhilarated, we arrived at our hotel the next morning and reveled in some much-needed rest and relaxation. These past few days have been a whirlwind, but this side trip provided the perfect opportunity to recharge before our upcoming African Safari. I can barely contain my excitement!
Stay tuned for more adventures from the Seychelles and our African Safari!
May God bless you always!
Chuck & Lea Ann
WorldTravelReynolds 