I have truly enjoyed my short time in Dubai and it is truly a city that meshes East with West. Fortunately, I will be back in Dubai on Friday for another night before heading back to New York City. Here are some of the highlights of thus far and a mini trip review:
Emirates AirlinesWhat can I say, Emirates ROCKS! They are hands down the best airlines I have flown thus far in my lifetime. They are based in Dubai and their Emirates College where they train their staff and crew is near my hotel. From the hot towels they give to wipe your hands to the choice of entrees (lamb or chicken) to the headset, to the ICE entertainment system with your own personal TV and choice of recent movies from theaters and current hot American TV shows, it is no surprise why Emirates is ranked as high as they are.
My seat I watched 3 movies during my flight from the UK to Dubai: "Fast & Furious Five", "Columbiana", & "Rise Planet of the Apes." I was also able to watch a few episodes of "The Vampire Diaries" Stairs leading up to two large bathrooms on either side...Dubai International Airport
Dubai is an international hotspot and the Emirates Concourse alone is the size of major airport in the United States. The Emirates concourse is huge, so be prepared to do a lot of walking. Customs can get crowded, but I changed my currency, got my Visa after waiting on a long line and then it was off to the hotel.
Premiere Inn
This is a UK hotel chain with several locations in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. I arrived from Dubai International Aiport around 2:30 am and I was immediately accommodated. All of the staff was warm and friendly. The hotel has a fitness center, rooftop pool and they even have adapters for American power/charger cords. They also have many USA and UK cable channels to view. I will be staying here again on Friday when I return to Dubai from India.
Diera City CentreDiera is a huge, and I mean huge shopping mall in Diera, Dubai. I am spending the afternoon here because I have to catch an Air Arabia shuttle bus at a very nice hotel across the street at 8:30 PM Gulf Time. I could definitely shop until I drop here...
The mall has a huge grocery store as well so, I am stocking up on lots of Gatorade for Egg Retrieval in India!
Next Stop: Sharjha International Airport where I will take a straight flight on Air Arabia to Ahmedabad, India. I had no idea Air Arabia flies to over 16 cities in India non-stop.