Kaula Lumpur - A gadabout's delight

Welcome to Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur is a melting pot of many nations with a fusion of Malay, Chinese, and Indians. The city was founded around 1857 when the Raja of Klang hired Chinese miners to open new tin mines up the river. The confluence of river Klang and Gombak just behind the Merdeka square strategically located, commanding both river valleys to which supplies could be conveniently be brought by boat and also facilitate the collection and disposal point for serving the tin mines.  

The Jamek Mosque

Kuala Lumpur literally means muddy confluence, deriving its nickname as it was founded near the confluence.  The city is today one of the frontrunner cities in Southeast Asia and the cornerstone of a nation with tons of economic prospects, truly the cultural, financial and economic hub of Malaysia.

Visitors to Malaysia need to obtain visa for entry through air or land. The visa policy of Malaysia elaborates jurisdictions (countries) which are granted visa free entry for a period of 90 days or 30 days or 14 days. Further to facilitate tourism there is online application system to accept applications from countries (India being one) for the electronic visa (eVisa)  and the Electronic Travel Registration and Information (eNTRI). Visa can be obtained online by oneself or through a travel agent. Just a piece of caution; beware of fake visa agents and scams. 

Catering to the huge influx of tourist and business men and woman, Kuala Lumpur has developed the primary international aviation gateway, Kuala Lumpur International Airport providing multi-cuisine restaurants, duty free stores, luxury lounges and mass transport systems. Situated two KM  away is KLIA2, one of the world’s largest airport for budget airlines. Transfers between the two airports KLIA and KLIA2 can be made either through KLIA aero train or shuttle bus (free of cost), Airport Liner bus or the Express Rail link (at a cost) and the time taken will be 1-10 minutes depending on the facility utilised. 

Aero Train

The airports are situated around 45 Kms from the city centre with an express road and railway link to Kuala Lumpur city . The taxi service at KLIA is a two tier system involving both limousines provided by taxi concessionaire the airport limbo and city cabs. Passengers have a choice buying a coupon and utilising the airport limbo (at level 3) or a city taxi for which fare can be paid based on meter (at Level 1). 

Teksi counter at KLAI2.

Taxi service at KLAI2 can be availed at level 1 gateway for coupon taxi for premier, budget or metered taxi with queuing up to wait for taxi at exit gate 4. Taxi at Malaysia is read as Teski, consisting of executive (Blue or yellow) budget (Red) with further facilitated by Grab and Uber taxis. To reach the city centre it takes an hour by teski and half an hour through the express railway link.

KL Sentral

Kuala Lumpur has developed a robust and efficient mass transportation revolving around the transport hub KL Sentral. The KTM Komuter ( lines 1, 2 & 10 ), the Mass rapid transit - MRT ( line 9 ), the Light rail transit - LRT ( lines 3,4 & 5), the monorail ( line 8 ), the ERL KIJA express and transit catering to airport passengers ( Line 6 & 7) and the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) forms the Klang valley integrated transit system. Unlike countries like Dubai, Singapore or Hong Kong the travel passes are considered to be costlier than purchasing tickets for every travel. Anyway I leave it to your judgment.

We reached Kaula Lumpur ( KLAI 2) early in the morning and vary due to lack of sleep and time difference of two and half hours with Indian Standard Time, we trudge our way to the immigration desk only to find hundreds of tourist and passengers in long queues. Interesting the queues of Malaysian also looked equally long, a sign that Malaysian too travel around the world. It took a good couple of hours to reach the immigration desk and showing no interest to the duty free stores display, we plodded towards our awaiting checked in luggage and due custom clearance. Having earlier experience of a lay off at Kaula Lumpur airport and eating joints demanding cash only, the Malaysian Ringgit (MYR), we felt prudent to exchange our currencies to MYR. It was a perfect time to enjoy the traditional local breakfast of kaya toast accompanied with wobbly half boiled eggs and washing it down with a cup of freshly brewed local coffee. It was a perfect start to exploring Kaula Lumpur. We hailed a taxi at level 2, exited through exit 4 and sat back enjoying an hour drive to our hotel at the city centre. Freshening up, a Chinese lunch of Dimsums & prawns at a upscale restaurant at Bukit Bintang, a nap got us ready to explore the city.

Bukit Bunting

Bukit Bunting

Moment we stepped out of our hotel at Bukit Bintang at dusk, we knew we were in a happening city, an entertainment epicentre of Kaula Lumpur. In fact we were at the famous Golden Triangle of KL defined by three arterial roads – Jalan Sultan Ismail, Jalan imbi and Jalan Raja Chulan. We found the busy thoroughfare with throngs of crowd enjoying the lively fresco bars, upscale shopping malls, luxe fashion boutiques, vibrant  night clubs. It took us an hour to traverse the two KM walk to the iconic Petronas Towers as we absorbed the environs.

Petronas twin towers

The first sight of the twin towers left us astounded. The 88 floor tower resembles motifs found in Islamic art, with the structural system as a tube structure, was the tallest building in the world between the years 1998 to 2014 and today remains the tallest twin towers in the world. 

Petronas twin tower sky bridge

It has a iconic sky bridge on the 41st floor which links the two towers like a tendon and a observation deck on the 86^th floor. The building reflects a symbol of spectacular rise of city from a tin miners shack to a metropolis. Built to house headquarter of Petronas, the national petroleum company of Malaysia, it shares the space with many business houses along with the Syria KLCC mall.  

Musical fountain at KLCC esplande

Sited at the esplande outside the Syria KLCC mall is the man-made lake, surrounded by spacious and beautifully landscaped KLCC park featuring a jogging park. The grandiose lake symphony fountains play every night at 2000, 2100 & 2200 HRs to the tunes of music. It is believed that to get a best view of the twin towers, one should head for Skybar at Traders Hotel, south of KLCC park or Heli Lounge.

Menara KL Tower

Not very far from the KLCC park is located the Menara KL Tower. Built in 1994, erected atop the Bukit Nanas Forest Reserve is amongst the tallest telecommunication tower in the world. The tower architectural style reflects Malaysian vibrant Islamic heritage with Arabic scripts tiles and conventional Islamic floral abstract patterns with towers familiar to a Malaysian spinning top used for playing the game “gasing”. Hailed as one of the tallest freestanding structure in the world, Menara KL too plays host to a revolving restaurant Atmosphere 360. 

Batu Caves

Early next day we hailed a Grab taxi for Batu Caves, district of Gombak, 11 KMs from the city centre.  It is a 400 million years old limestone hill containing a series of caves and cave temples named after Sungai Batu, the stone river which flows past the hill. The caverns, crags and the crevices were formed in the prehistoric era. 

Lord Murugan, Batu Caves

The cave is dedicated to Lord Murugan and one of the most popular Tamil Shines outside India attracting thousands of worshippers during the Hindu festival Thaipusam. A 140 feet tall golden painted imposing statue of Lord Murugan stood majestically at the foot of the 272 steps which leads to the Cathedral caves which houses several Hindu shrines beneath its 100 metre high arched ceiling.

  

KTM Komuter

Mono Rail

We experienced the ride on a KTM Komuter from Batu Caves to KL Sentral. Visit to monumental and iconic transport hub of Kaula lumpur was dual. First to explore the Malaysia largest transit hub, an integrated rail transportation centre offering global connectivity and seamlessly linking all urban, suburban residential commercial and industrial areas. The hub encourages use of public transportation which has significantly reduced traffic movement leading to reduced carbon foot prints. 

KL Sentral

KL Sentral is the largest commercial development in Kuala Lumpur comprising of corporate offices towers, luxury hotels, condominium and shopping mall. Conceptualised as a City within a City, today it stands out globally. 

Go Genting Highland bus ticket counter, KL Sentral

The second reason to visit KL Sentral was to book in advance bus and ropeway tickets to Genting Highlands.

Awana ropeway station

Sky cable ropeway, Getting Highlands

Usually the travel houses plan a trip Singapore – Genting Highlands – Kaula lumpur or vice-versa, with stay arrangements at each place. However as we were travelling solo, we opted to take a hour bus ride through Go-Genting from Kaula lumpur to Away station and thereafter taking the sky cable car ride. It took us a good hour to reach the cable car as the place thronged of the holiday crowd. 

Theme park, Genting Highlands

As we hit the popular weekend resort.  Genting Highlands at an altitude of around 1800 metre, we were welcomed by floors of premium outlets, eating joints, theme park, casino, malls, 4D Cinema   and the hourly cinematic visuals combined with music fusing for a spectacular visual story telling - the Sky symphony display. 

Chin Swede Caves Temple

On our way back, we made a halt at the Chin Swee Caves Temple. The key landmarks the 15 metre tall Buddha statue, nine storey lamp lit pagoda and the open - air Sky Terrace. Located at a sharp rocky slope facilitated by a number of escalators, the awesome mountainous landscape left us spell bounded. It was indeed a nice, cool  getaway from the hustle bustle  city life.

KL Gallery

Kaula lumpur does not have many sights, but it worth a visit to the Dataran Merdeka Square or Independence Square where the Jamek Mosque is located at the confluence of the Llang and Gombak river. The other side the Sultan Abdul Samad stands. 

Sultan Abdul Samad

This magnificent building housed the offices of the British administration and here the Union flag was lowered and the Malaysian flag was hoisted in 31^st August 1957. Across the road is the KL City gallery of the past and the future. 

Other prominent sights are the Lake Gardens also called Tun Abdul Razak Heritage park sprawling 227 acres with plenty of walk ways and trees with the Orchid garden and hibiscus garden being a part. Nestled amidst the serenity of the Lake garden is located  the colourful KL Bird Park is one of the largest free flight aviaries in the world, a home to over 200 species of native and exotic birds. Adjacent to it is the KL Butterfly zoo housing many  local species. 

  

In case one is a shopaholic, Kaula lumpur is the place to be in. The key modern shopping upscale malls are located in the golden triangle are the Surya KLCC Pavilion KL, Berjaya Times Square, Sungei Wang Plaza, home to the International brands. 

Central Market

Little India

Street markets like the Central Market and Petaling Street in China Town form the unique and ethnic shopping experience The Kasturi walk - the covered open air flea market is famous for counterfeit branded products and in case one wants to experience India in Kaula Lumpur, Little India is the place to be in.

Jalan Alor street food

Travel to Kaula Lumpur will not be complete without experiencing the culinary delights and the variety of cuisine spanning various ethnic groups. Malaysia is a food obsessed nation. Yes people love to eat and eating out is extremely popular among the locals. One can enjoy the gastronomic in the various malls and streets but the Hub of KL cuisine Jalan Alor offshoot of Bukit Bintang is the most famous destination for Hawker fare. It is known as the Mecca of street food. 

Jalan Alor street food

The barbecued meats, noodles and desert are some of the best and cheapest in the city. There was no time to neither luxuriate over the menu nor expect fancy décor or service. There were picture menus to make ordering easy and food served on plastic plates in a rainbow of colors.  We experienced the amazing culinary scenes of plastic tables and chairs laid along the street with jam-packed people ordering their dishes from the diverge range of hawkers lined along sides of the street and savouring the delicacies  and rather had a hard time finding a place. The tantalising aroma coming from the frying and boiling pots, the clangs of woks, sight of array of noodles gets the taste buds tingling, the sensuous aroused, appetite at its best, building up thoughts for the meal to come. It was a moment for Bon appétit and after a sumptuous meal in Jalon Alor it was time to bid Au revoir Kaula Lumpur.

Umaim Lake, Meghalaya – A Luncheon Getaway

Umiam Lake

Shillong, capital of the Indian State of Meghalaya, known as the Scotland of the East has been my favourite destination since my childhood days. Having spent the best years of my teens, the place had always been close to my heart. The crisp cool air, the smell of the pines, the smoke wailing out of the fire place, happy faces around, dreamy colonial bungalows, the sporadic rains, black ambassador  taxis, city buses venting out the  of the exhaust from the roof, the markets-Police bazaar and Bara bazaar, the restaurants Ec, New India and Delhi Mistan Bhandar, the pipe smoking smartly dressed gentlemen, fashionable ladies in best of the attire, the schools - St Edmund, Saint Mary,  Pine Mount and Loreto Convent, the colleges - St Anthony, St Edmund and Lady Keene lighted up the atmosphere in Shillong as a whole. The musical nights and fetes added glamour to life, with Polo ground, Don Bosco Square, Laitumkhrah, Dhankheti, Laban, Ward lake were the places we frequented. Life was indeed at its best.

But sadly, Shillong today is far from its distant past. The concrete jungle, the maddening traffic, parking slot a distant dream, choc - block and chaotic bazaars, nightmarish traffic congestion on the Mawlai and Shillong stretch, with none knowing when they will reach their destination has lead us to avoid the city. However to keep abreast with the beauty of the environs of Shillong, we started frequenting the places in and around Shillong with Barapani or Umiam lake resorts becoming our base camp.

Umiam means water of eyes or water of tears is believed to be formed from a   mythological based story and Barapani means big water called by its natives for its utter size. The man made water body was created by damming the Umiam river in the early 1960, the principal catchment area of the lake and dam  spreading over 220 KMs. 

It’s takes just over an hour and half hour drive from Guwahati to Barapani. NH 40 is the main artery connecting the States of Assam, Meghalaya and Tripura. The 62 km expressway between Jorabat and Barapani section of NH 40 had been accorded on Design, Build, Finance, Operate and Transfer (DBFOT) basis in BOT (Annuity) mode of delivery under Special accelerated road development programme - North East in the year 2006 with the road project completing in 2016. The four lane expressway has made a remarkable change in our quest to travel the region by road.

It was in 1865 when the new cart road linking Shillong with Guwahati was formally opened to traffic. It would take three days to cover the distance in a bullock cart. In 1888, the first horse drawn tonga service was introduced with twelve stables along the road so that every five to six miles the horses were changed for the sake of rest for the horses and maintaining the speed with a fresh set of horses. The journey was undertaken at a cost Rs 30 either way and the 64 miles was covered in a day. The first motor service on the Shillong - Guwahati road was introduced in 1906 with a fleet of seven Albion cars which ran on solid tyres. The credit of introducing the horse tonga and the first motor service between Shillong to Guwahati belongs to Khan Bahadur Kasimuddin Molla, son of Golam Hyder from Hooghly. 

Must stop - halting point

In fact, a few decades ago the Guwahati - Shillong road was one way, that is all vehicles either way were made to halt in Nongpoh. Maybe that is why today also Nongpoh continues to be the natural halting point of motorist and truckers.  

Guwahati - Shillong Highway, a carvers delight

Presently the highway is comparable to the best of the roads in the country.The sublime end of the world landscapes along the route will excite the best of the travel maniacs. Travelling deeper into Meghalaya, one can experience the demographic, environmental and climatic change. 

Fruit vendors on Guwahati-Shillong Highway

As we cross the town of Byrnihat, the border town of Meghalaya, we pass by numerous fruit vendors selling their merchandise. The roads begins to slowly climb against the back drop of lush green mountains, tree groves, tea gardens, and then begins to drop into the valley between Umsning and Umiam, climbing again with number of S turns increasing, a driving delight as one carves around the corners.

Umiam Lake, Barapani

It was love at first sight, it’s a like a blot from the blue, the beauty of Umiam lake is mesmerising, picturesque and breathtaking. Encompassed by thick coniferous forests the crystal blue water body draws its resemblance with the Lochs or Lakes of Scotland and is a contributing factor in naming Shillong as the Scotland of the East. 

Orchid Resort and Water Sports Complex

The tranquil azure water of Umiam lake is a popular destination for kayaking, water cycling, scooting, boating, angling, swimming, water sliding, camping, trekking  and adventure sports. 

The best views of Umiam Lake can be captured from the Orchid Lake Resort which is housed within the Umiam Water Sports Complex. The resort is operated by the Meghalaya Tourism Department.

Umiam Lake View - Orchid Resort

 The stay in the resort is pleasant, with reasonable tariffs, with view of the lake magnificent, facilitated with a swimming pool. The early morning walk by the side of the lake is enthralling. However at times the place becomes crowded especially during lunch time as the day trippers add to the guest staying in the resort.

Umiam Lake View -  Ri Kynjai 

Another resort rather exclusive and high end is Ri Kynjai, which is located on the western side of the lake. ” Serenity by the lake “ in Khasi, Ri Kynjai offers a perfect gateway from the hustle bustle of city life, a perfect place to rejuvenate while doing nothing. 

Ri Kynjai, Barapani

The hotel has been designed on the lines of traditions of original Khasi thatch huts, providing eastward orientation, each cottage offering a view of the lake and the highlight is the sunrise view. Ri Kynjai has found itself mentioned in the list of room with a view, a view with food, one of the best romantic getaways and with its astounding environs indeed provides value for money.

Ri Kynjai - Food with a view

The Path - Ri Kynjai

So whenever your chips a down and you need a break, getaway early in the morning, have sumptuous breakfast at Nongpoh, bask in the sun at Barapani, enjoy the serene panoramic sights, have lunch with a view by the side of the Umiam lake in one of the resorts  and drive back feeling top of the world. 

The Futuristic Dubai

Al Fahidi Fort, Dubai

Dubai lies on a natural creek Khor Dubai which runs inland for about 10 KM, becoming the nucleus for the city to develop. Prosperity as a port dates back to 1902 when Dubai became the anchorage in the area for the dhows coming from as far as India and East Africa.  People settled on both sides at Dubai and Deira.

Old Deira, Dubai

With reinforcement of the banks, dredging of the creek and connecting the two sides of the city by the bridges - Al-Maktoum and Al Garhound, by tunnel - Al Shindagha, and construction of the wharfage, the Dubai creek became the main artery for trade in the Emirates. With Government support and low taxes, trade flourished. Oil was discovered in the 1960s and the city began to reap the benefits of the hard work of the past decades. The master stroke was the agreement of unity between the two Emirates Dubai and Abu Dhabi in 1968 and the exports of oil in 1969 and then on there was no looking back. After the independence from British rule in December 1970, Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Fujayrah, Umm al Quwain, Ajman and Ras al-Khaymah formed a federation of seven states - The United Arab Emirates, growing from a quiet backwater to one of Middle East most important economic centre. Dubai became the commercial hub of the newly established country. The 70s ended with opening of the Jebel Ali Port, the Free trade zone and the advantage of high oil prices created the miracle for modern Dubai.

E11 expressway - Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai

Today Dubai is known as the entertainment city of the world with ultramodern architecture with each gleaming skyscraper a landmark and each new building looking more futuristic than the last. It is an oasis in the desert with exotic and lively night life, beautiful skyline, synonymous with grandeur and pompous lifestyle.

To visit and explore the United Arab Emirates, one needs obtain a tourist visa. The UAE embassies do not issue tourist visa. To get one, you need to get in touch with one of the UAE bound airlines. In case the airlines you are flying are not extending the facility of obtaining the visa, services can be availed from a tour agency or a prospective hotel. Just word of caution, it is important to check the authenticity of travel agents one is dealing with and do refrain from paying or sending copies of your official documents until you are sure that the tourist operator is genuine. Assistance can be sought from the UAE embassy. 

Dubai international is the busiest international airport in the world. If you ever wanted to visit a mega airport Dubai Airport is it. The airport has evolved from a single runway of compacted sand to become one of the most modern and dynamic travel hubs in the world. Dubai airport received its billionth traveler in 2018 and it fast becoming a favorite stop over and lay off airport for people travelling around the world. With hundreds of flights taking off and landing every day, it is important to know which terminal one flying through. Terminal 1 (consisting of concourse D ) - All international flights except Emirates, Qantas. Terminal 2- Flydubai and other regional and international airlines Terminal 3 -  (consisting  of three concourse A Gates B Gates C Gates) all Emirates and Qantas. Dubai World Central - Wizz Air, Flydubai, Aeroflot and other seasoned charter operators. Metro between Terminal 1 and Terminal 3 is available along with free 24 hour shuttle bus between Terminal 1, 2 and 3. 

Dubai Airport - dedicated train  

We landed in Terminal 1 in Dubai International airport and as we did in most of the countries we have visited, just simply followed the signs. A short walk brought us to the dedicated airport train carrying us to the immigration desks.

Immigration - Dubai airport

Queues to the counter were long, however once you reach the counter, a check on your Passport and visa, a photograph taken and a biometric iris scan, we were through to pick up our luggage.

Driverless automated Metro, Dubai

The mass transportation system in Dubai is equally amazing. The 49 station, 46 mile metro is automated and drive less making it the third largest such systems in the world after Singapore and Vancouver beating the likes of USA where the automated trains are limited to Miami, Detroit and West Virginia.  The bullet shaped stations lie above ground like golden space pods and the train run through like an artery through the heart of Dubai. The 29 stations red line runs from Rashidiya near Dubai International Airport to UAE Exchange formerly known as Jebel Ali. The 20 stations green line runs from Etisalat metro station in Al Qusais to Creek in Al Jaddaf.  Transfer between the red and the green lines can be made at Union or Bur Juman formerly Khalid Bin Al Waleed. The Metro has turned local travel, previously a battle through traffic choked highway in a car reliant city into a seamless fast and incredible reliable travel experience. Do experience the driver less metro drive standing in the front coach, it will bring your childhood memories back.

Metro station, Dubai

The Dubai metro will be further extend the red line to facilitate single seat journey for participants arriving at Dubai International Airport the commuting to the Dubai Exposition 2020.

Dubai Tram station

The Dubai Tram, the latest mode of transport loops around Dubai Marina and Jumeirah Beach Residence, heading off to Al Sufouh passing Dubai Media City, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Pearl and Dubai knowledge village, covering a total of 11 stations.

Dubai is known to be a taxi centric city as the metro coverage is for a specific route. The Dubai Taxi Corporation operates the cream colored, metered, air conditioned are relatively  in- expensive, fast and comfortable. The flag- fall for the street taxi in the city is DHs 5 and DHs 25 for trips originating from the airport. The competitor to the Dubai Taxi Corporation is Uber and Careem but there is a minuscule difference in comfort and service. The drivers are in uniform and are well mannered and friendly. High end taxis are available but at a cost.

To travel around Dubai, one should obtain the smart card- Nol Card, which enables one to  pay for public transport fares in taxis, metro, buses, water bus and metro parking. The card is operated by Dubai Roads & Transport Authority. Cards can be obtained from ticketing office of Metro stations, Ticket vending machines, RTA customer service centres or online.

Water park, Palm Jumeirah

What better place to kick start our exploration of Dubai than Palm Jumeirah, a man made island built in a shape of a palm tree, one of the largest artificial islands in the world and  a triumph to human ingenuity. The place is known for the swanky hotels, stylish apartments towers and glamorous restaurants.

Mono Rail, Dubai

To reach there take the metro to Jumeirah  Lakes Tower on the red line. Change over to the tram line to Palm Jumeriah tram station and cross a footbridge to reach the mono rail Gateway Station. The Palm Jumeriah monorail runs down the trunk of the archipelago created on a reclaimed land.

Mono rail station, Dubai 

The route is three miles long and runs from the Gateway station to the Atlantis hotel and Aquaventure water  park. The monorail is owned by Nakheel and does not fall under the jurisdiction of Dubai (RTA), as such Nol cards cannot be used. We did not avail the Dubai water taxi which takes tourist to 43 stations located all around Dubai to enjoy the sweeping skyline views and get close to landmarks nor took to skydiving to get an aerial view of Dubai.

Promenade, Palm Jumeirah 

Housing, Palm Jumeirah 

We did avail the Dubai water bus to hip hop the scenic Marina Mall, Dubai Marina, Marina Terrace and Marina Promenade.

Dubai Fort

Old Dubai is equally fascinating as it has the history which is laced to it. Hop in a metro on red line to Bur Jaman and change over to green line and get down at the Al Faridi Metro Station to reach the 200 years old Dubai fort displaying the history of Dubai and its original heritage.

Textile souk, Bur Dubai

A short walk from the Dubai fort brings us to the textile (old) souk with garments and textiles available from the Asian countries.

Abara, Bur Dubai

In the close vicinity is Dubai Old souk abara station. Abram comes from the Arabic verb abara, which means to cross. Riding the traditional half boat half raft and cruising around the ancient Dubai creek with spectacular views of Deira and Bur Dubai was indeed charming and gives glimpses of the city history, heritage and soulful side of the city.

Collecting 1 Dh  for Abara ride, Dubai  

 Believe it or not, the crossing over the creek to Sabkha Abra Station in the traditional mode of transport cost only one AED.  Make sure you carry the local currency ie AED since I have seen tourist turned away from the abara station because they were only carrying cards.

The abara cross over lead us to the Spice souk, situated at Baniyas Street which had an atmosphere of ancient Dubai as experienced during the visit to the Dubai museum. Mounds of aromatic herbs and spices are displayed in large baskets with shops spilling out on the walkway in the narrow alleys.

Spice Souk, Deria

It is home to some of the most expensive types of saffron in the world but yet it needs haggling to get the best price. The fragrance in the air was a delight our senses, the colours pleasing to the eye and the sweet take away of the aroma hanged on with us for a long time.

Gold Souk, Deria

Stone throw away form the Spice souk is the Dubai’s famous Gold Souk. The sight was awesome. I have never seen so much gold in my life. There are around four hundred shops displaying the yellow metal and it was indeed glittering.

The craftsmanship of the jewellery fascinated me more than the gold and it was for the craftsmanship which one has to haggle as the gold price is same at most of the shops.

Perfume Souk, Deria

A short walk brought us to the Perfume souk. Directions were not sought for as the aroma of the Arabic fragrance led us to the souk. Interestingly it is not only the liquid perfume which is only sold but hundreds of traditional Arabic scents can be purchased as a stick, powder, crystal, rock or wood. One can even tailor make a personalised aroma created based on the type of skin and personality.

Al Karama market, Dubai

Visits to the souks will not be completed without experiencing the haggling in Al Karama market, a short walk from ADCB metro station, a buzzing experience full of barter with sales people and flavour packed Indian street food and restaurants.

Madinat Souk, Dubai

Another fascinating must visit destination is the Souk Madinat at Jumeirah, an authentic re-creation of an ancient market place with traditional Middle Eastern style maze like bazaar mixed with contemporary stalls and restaurants under wooden covered arcade remaining true to its Arabic heritage meanwhile incorporating aspects of modern technology.

Burj Al Arab Hotel, Dubai

Jumeriah beach

Perhaps what makes Souk Madinat Jumeriah one of the most popular tourist spots in Dubai is its proximity to the 7 star hotel in Dubai the Burj Al Arab, perfect for a photo shoot, the beach Jumeraih and its thriving nightlife, creating a perfect allegory to showcase Dubai the old and new tradition and modernism.   

What better day to visit Abu Dhabi, the capital of UAE on 2^nd December, the National Day of UAE. The distance from Dubai is 140 KM, a one and half hour drive via famous E11 expressway, a highway which united UAE (The change in tarmac colour indicated the Dubai-Abu Dubai border on E11 at Seih Shuaib), stretching from the Saudi border in the west to Oman border in the East.  The drive gave an insight to infrastructure development of UAE, its modern cityscapes and road development and we were awed. 

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Abu Dhabi

The visit to the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, one of the  largest mosque in the world was the must visit destination in Abu Dhabi. It is a place for daily prayers, Friday gatherings and Eid prayers, established to unite the cultural diversity with historical and modern values of architecture and art.

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Abu Dhabi

The open door policy inviting visitors all around the world was indeed heartening to note. We could witness the impressive and imposing white onion top domes, the reflective pools in the courtyard, the iconic prayer halls and the world’s biggest handmade chandelier and carpets.

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Abu Dhabi

 It was ranked the world’s third favourite landmark according to Trip Advisor travellers choice during the year 2018, with Angkor Wat in Cambodia beating it to the top spot.

Presidential Palace Gates, AbuDhabi

Having enjoyed the grandeur to the Grand Mosque it was time to join in the celebrations of UAE National Day. The city was adorned with red, white, green and black colours with spectacular display at shopping malls, skyscrapers, beaches and parks. Looks anyone and everyone were out in the streets of Abu Dhabi as the excitement built up for the fly past of the country Air Force. We were near the Presidential Palace when the first of the planes flew past. It was a sight to behold, the Presidential Palace gates at the back ground and the planes flying past.

Miracle Garden, Dubai

As the name signifies Miracle garden, the signature creation of Dubai is indeed a phenomenon in the middle of the desert city. The 72000 sqm wonderland with million of flowers was launched on valentine day in 2013.

Miracle Garden, Dubai

Castles, houses, 3 D installations of insects, birds, animals, forts, larger than life archways shaped like hearts and butterfly entirely covered in flowers beckons one to lose themselves to this man made fairyland.

Miracle Garden, Dubai

Miracle garden has found its name in the Guinness book of world records for the largest floral decoration life size model of the Emirates Airbus A380 in 2016. The garden is open to public every year from November to May, but do check the exact opening and closure dates in case you intend to visit the urban oasis in the middle of the desert city.

UAE is blessed with sea on one side and desert on the other. Mornings might have been spent visiting the Miracle garden or lazing in Palm Jumerieh, but when in Dubai the Desert Safari is a must visit destination during one of the evenings.

Sunset view, Desert Safari, Dubai

The desert safari package is a bundle of activities of dune bashing, camel ride, sand ski, sun set photography, quad biking, henna painting, traditional Arab dressing, taking pictures of falcon sitting on your shoulder. The Arabic coffee and dates along with unlimited water, cold drinks, tea and coffee is indeed welcome after the dune bashing. The pick up 4x4 wheel drive are fitted with a roll over cage as a safety measure for event of a roll over with the car and passengers covered by insurance. The car picked up from our hotel and drove through the desert along Al Awir road. The tyres were depressurised and with the driver announcing put on your seat bells, we went dune bashing. First the movement through the desert was smooth, slowly the landscape changed and the experience hand of the driver guided us through the golden sand dunes each passing dune more steep than the last with the finale almost at ninety degrees. The plummeting low in the deep ditches and escalating high on the summit of the dune is an exciting adrenaline pumping experience but not for the faint heart or children or old people. One must choose a established tour operator, as accidents do happen during sand dune bashing and the holidays turns into a nightmare.

Desert Safari Camp, Dubai

 Desert Safari Camp, Dubai

The tour operators have established camps in the desert with sitting arrangement in the traditional Arabic Bedouin under the bedu style huts made of palm trees ferns with cushions and carpets laid out which enables to experience the Arab way of entertainment. The bar is well stocked but found the liquor quite expensive. However personal liquor is not permitted  in the camp. The shisha the famous Arabic water pipe was passed around with snacks was laid in abundance.

Tanoura Dance, Desert Safari Camp, Dubai

Fire Dance, Desert Safari Camp, Dubai

As the tourist settled down, the evening entertainment program commenced with the Tanoura dance. a folkloric Egyptian dance usually performed by the Sufis. The performer aim is to spin continuously wearing long swirling colorful skirts fitted with led lights making astounding patterns, reaching a spiritual inner purity and trance like state, interestingly showing no signs of discomfort at the end of the performance, but the formations are mesmerising to watch. The next to follow was the fire dance which enthralled the crowd making different patterns juggling flares, burning hoops and spitting fire.

Belly Dance, Desert Safari Camp, Dubai

Finally it was the much awaited belly dance performance to the rhythmic sound of the tambourine. It is the traditional dance of the Middle East and is known as Rags Sharqi familiar to westerners dance performed in restaurants and Rags baladi a traditional folkloric danced socially by men and women of all ages.  The attire of the dancer is called the bedlah consisting of bejeweled bra like blouse, a belt and a skirt or harem pants, the dress decorated with sequins, crystals and coins richly embroidered. The music is saidi cheerful or Masmoudi Kabir serious and the movements very fluid and vibrant. The dance has to be performed a lot more than a belly jiggle but arch the upper thighs, move the knees rhythmically and  the hips in a linear manner to the beat with focus so intense that all the audience sees is the belly moving. All good experience end and our ended with a sumptuous dinner. The return from the desert to our Dubai hotel rooms was a quite drive and thankfully with no dune bashing.

Dubai is famous for its shopping sprees. The first mall to come up in Dubai was in 1981 at Al Ghurair centre in Deira.

Dubai Mall

Underwater Zoo Ticketing, Dubai Mall

Today for the shopaholic we have the Dubai Mall world most visited shopping and leisure destination covering more than a million sqm, with hundreds of retail stores  with added attraction of the world tallest building The Burj Khalifa, The Dubai aquarium and under water zoo.

Dubai Mall

World tallest building, Burj Khalifa, Dubai

Dubai Fountain

The lighting of the Burj Khalifa, 828 m tallest building in the world  during the National day of UAE and the musical fountain dancing to the tunes of Michael Jacksons left us spell bounded.

Ski Dubai, Mall of Emirates, Dubai

The Mall of Emirates, a flagship luxury destination is equally enthralling with Ski Dubai complete with chairlifts and happy penguin with enclosures with minus two degree offering snowboarding and ski lessons.

Theme India - IBN Batuta Mall, Dubai

IBN Batuta Mall is a mall divided into six sections each having a theme park dedicated to the places the great traveler IBN Batuta visited -  Persia, China, India, Tunisia, Andalusia and Egypt.

Maria Mall, Dubai

Dubai Marina Mall situated near the waterfront, small and relaxed shopping mall with promenade café and restaurants.

Dubai Frame

Dubai Frame, a 150 m high picture frame is one of Dubai’s latest sights, whisking through a series of Emirati heritage before one travels up to the sky deck. A amazing panorama of both old and new Dubai can be snapped on the viewing gallery culminating with a futuristic vision of future Dubai.

Dubai loves to think of challenges and figures out ways to meet or surpass them. The world tallest building – Burj Khalifa, the world the largest floral decoration life size model – in Miracle garden, world tallest hotel Gevora hotel, world largest choreographed fountain system – Dubai fountain, world largest snow park – Mall of Emirates,  world’s longest automated metro system – Dubai Metro the list goes on.

Dubai amazing infrastructure, world leading aviation, highly developed surface transport, sophisticated financial and service centre, excellent public transport and connectivity is like hopping into a time machine to the future. The trade, commerce and tourism sector is booming and is ready to compete with the likes of Singapore and Hong Kong and what better place to show case as the Next Destination to the world during the ensuing Dubai Expo 2020.