DUBAI

Burj Khalifa
World's Tallest Bldg.

Have been watching YT vlogs about Dubai, home to the world's tallest building and the largest shopping mall in the world.  Inside the mall is the world's largest indoor aquarium.  Dubai is home to the longest fully automated metro in the world, serving some 180,000 passengers a day.  The Palm Jumeirah is the world's largest man-made island.  

Man-made Palm Island

The main theme is world's largest and best of everything.  One can even order a gold cappuccino.....the gold coffee is made of 24-carat gold blended into espresso, using 100% Arabian coffee beans.

The crime rate in Dubai is at 1%, due to the harsh penalties that apply for even small offenses.  The police force uses the latest crime detection and prevention technologies.  

The only people allowed to drink alcohol are non-Muslims 21 years and older.  Alcohol is only permitted in licensed premises, as it is illegal to drink in public spaces.  No alcohol is permitted during religious holidays.  Intoxication by alcohol while in Dubai can lead to a jail term or deportation.

Be aware, too, that one can get arrested for taking photos of the locals without their consent and also if one poses in front of a government building.  There's a strict code of conduct for tourists because of the strong Islamic beliefs.

Definitely a place for the richest and most famous of the world.  Glitz and glamour exist in celebratory hotel suites that cost up to $26,000 per night.  The unbelievable part of Dubai is how it's built on a desert.  The turning point of Dubai's fortunes was the discovery of oil in 1966. 

The Frame separates old Dubai from the new.  As one can expect, it's the world's largest picture frame. 

During the summer months, it's like living in a sauna.  Time in the open is kept to an absolute minimum.  Sandstorms are unpleasant.  A fine, powdery dust gets into everything, including homes.  The wind finds cracks under doors and around windows and dust gets in.  Best time to visit is December-February.  

 Note to self:  Do not put this on personal bucket list.