Shop Till You Drop At Dubai Hotels
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The Arabian Nights is full of magical tales, but even the most creative story tellers would have found it a stretch to imagine Dubai’s rapid expansion over the last few decades. On the south-east tip of the Arabian peninsula, it has become one of the world’s most renowned tourist destinations; Dubai hotels are famously luxurious, its malls stock the most desirable designer goods and its attractions draw in well-heeled tourists from all over the world.
To get your bearings and see what a manmade monument to ingenuity the city is, you should head for the recently completed Burj Khalifa. This is the tallest building in the world, soaring 828 metres into the sky. From the observation deck on the 124th floor, you can see the world stretching out at your feet.
And although the tallest building in Dubai, Burj Kalifa is by no means the most impressive. Often Dubai hotels seem to be regarded as attractions in their own right. The Burj Al Arab is the most famous and luxurious hotel and it is worth stopping by to get a drink, if only for the boasting factor. Built on an artificial island, the self-styled 7-star hotel was designed to evoke a traditional dhow sailing vessel. Its Al Muntaha restaurant, 200 metres up gives you a bird’s eye view while you dine on award-winning dishes.
The sandy beaches are the best place to escape the burning heat. The most famous beach is Jumeirah and this is fringed by the best known Dubai hotels. Since there is public access to the beach, everyone can enjoy its deep cyan, warm waters and its enticingly soft sand – not just hotel guests. Water-sports clubs abound and it is possible to get lessons in water skiing and sailing.
Perhaps the most impressive aspect of Dubai’s transformation is how this dusty backwater has become the world’s shopping Mecca. And with the girls from Sex and the City rocking up to pick up the latest designer frocks, it’s clear Dubai is at the vanguard of modern fashion. Many of its malls are the size of small towns and some even come complete with their own ice rinks and zoos. Fashionistas will find a veritable catwalk of designer brands to buy and, best of all, it’s tax free. So enjoy the air-conditioning and prepare to shop until you drop!