Travel Agent Mokopane

I had the privilege to travel to the United Arab Emirates specifically Dubai, during November 2007. I was one of 20 students who completed a course on Dubai and after completing the course we had to write an exam. The top 20 were chosen and sponsored by the Dubai Tourism Board.

Although it was extremely hot it did not put a damper on my enthusiasm.

The Dubai airport in itself was an experience. Never have I ever seen an airport where it is evident that no costs were spared.

The Dubai Museum was my first stop. Al-Fahidi Fort is thought to be one of Dubai’s oldest buildings. In the olden days the fort was used to defend the town from warlike neighbouring tribes. (It became very clear to me while I was there that Dubai does not like to get involved with other peoples wars or problems.) Upon entering the museum I saw a collection of old maps as well as aerial photographs showing the vast expansion happening over the past years. They have a big collection of traditional musical instruments. I also saw a scary display of weapons like swords, spears, pistols and axes. But enough about that.

I was taken on a half day city tour where I was driven past the ruling Sheikh’s Castle. It seems that he is a very generous man as he holds what I would call an “open house” every few months where citizens can come to him and discuss any and all grievances. Not something you hear every day! Each and every palm tree that I passed looked more beautiful than the next. This country doesn’t believe in letting anything go to waste. Even the sewerage system does some additional work. Each palm tree has a small water interrogating system – the water comes from the sewerage.

Dubai is divided by a “creek” (river), on the one side there is “Old Dubai” and on the other side “New Dubai”. Each building looks different. I also did not see one square of “regular” looking buildings. The Old Dubai however does not look haggard, it is kept alive almost!

Dubai is where you will find the “souks” (markets). On first appearance you almost have to cover your eyes when looking down the aisle of the gold souks, as most of the jewellery is displayed outside the shops. This is where you can bargain like crazy ladies. I bought a pair of hoop gold earrings for my sister as well as a sterling silver ring for myself. When you enter the spice souks it is like entering a magical world. Each spice has a unique look and even touch (and obviously smells) but when the local souk owner starts telling about each spice it’s like being taken for a ride on a magic carpet! Needless to say I had to buy a little of each! The souk owners are very good salesmen!!!

You can find anything in the souks from: jewellery; spices; toys; clothes; brand name clothing to electrical stuff etc. Luckily for me I had my credit card with me.

I visited a lot of hotels but the 3 that I will remember forever was the Jumeira Beach Hotel, Royal Mirage and the Burj Al Arab Hotel.

On my last afternoon and evening I was treated to a 4x4 dune dinner safari. These guys had absolutely no fear! It was an exhilarating drive through the dunes until sunset. Then I was taken on a camel ride – very bumpy but when will I ever get to do it again? Because I was there in November I did not get to see the belly dancers as it was Ramadan. But instead I was treated to a barbecue under the stars, complete with Persian carpets on the hot sand, hubbly bubblies going around - I felt like a queen! Henna artists tattooed the most beautiful patterns on my hands. All and all it was a wonderful way to end of my visit to this dazzling city!