Want to book a vacation to Dubai? Whether it’s a family trip or a romantic getaway, here are some tips to consider to make the best of your trip.
Make sure you have medical insurance
Before leaving, you need to get a traveler’s insurance policy that covers any medical issues you may have while in the United Arab Emirates. Although the UAE will cover an emergency visit to the hospital for a tourist, any other medical treatment that is needed, you are responsible for. However, traveler’s insurance is not expensive, and it will also cover such things as lost or stolen luggage as well as cancelled flights to and from your destination.
Consider staying at a western hotel
This type of a five star hotel is one that caters to westerners. They offer private beaches, so women can wear the same swimsuits they do in the United States. The staff at these western hotels is familiar with the customs of western people, and they are better able to assist you in having the most pleasant stay possible. If you find yourself confused about the rules and customs of the people of Dubai, staff members will be able to explain the differences between what you are accustomed to and the rules in Dubai.
If you enjoy drinking, understand the rules in Dubai
Alcohol is forbidden in Dubai except in licensed areas such as restaurants and hotels that cater to western tourists. Under no circumstances should you drink outside of these designated areas. You should also be prepared to stay in these areas if you have consumed alcohol. Public intoxication is not tolerated in Dubai.
Pack appropriate clothing
It is very hot is Dubai, so you will need to pack cool clothing. Keep in mind that although the UAE is a liberal country compared to other countries in the Middle East, they are still a Muslim country. If you are a woman, you will not be required to wear a scarf or cover up the way women are seen elsewhere in the region. You should, however, try not to wear any clothes that are too revealing. You will attract unwanted attention. Dubai is not Las Vegas.
Prepare for intense heat
Make sure that you have the necessary sunglasses and sunscreen to protect yourself. You also should consider a hat for your head. Unless you have spent a lot of time in the desert, you may not be prepared for the intense heat in this part of the world. Although the water is safe to drink, most westerners find themselves drinking bottled water. If you are not someone who normally drinks a lot of water, you need to prepare yourself ahead of time to become a water drinker. There is no substitute for water when keeping your body hydrated in the desert.
Get the best deal possible on your hotel
There are several outstanding hotels in Dubai. All of them are in direct competition to get as much of the tourist dollar as possible. The best way to make sure you are getting the best deal available is to compare prices side by side on a comparison website. This type of site will give you up-to-date information on the prices for each hotel, according to the size of the room you want and the dates you are planning to stay in Dubai. There are many good sites that provide this service. Hipmunk is one example of this type of price comparison website.
This article was contributed by Fiona Moriarty of Hipmunk, a complete travel platform that allows you to do everything from comparing charter flights and train rides, to finding the best resort hotels and Airbnb rentals.
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