Dubai

[nutz]

Its not like that here. Assuming you have never been.

That assumption would be incorrect. I have spent time in the Saudi Kingdom, Iraq, Iran, UAE and Dubai. Doesn't change my opinion of what parts of the world I would choose for vacation. Guess I don't have a desire to ski indoors, hit the malls, waterparks or F1-X. Probably should since it was all built with mostly American dollars, but I don't.

 

[bulldog]

My husband had a 1 day stop-over in Dubai on his way to Afghanistan and is considering this as a place we will meet for his R&R in 4 months. Has anyone here been? Seems really expensive and I want to go to Switzerland. Which would be better? We actually have friends in Switzerland and may have a place to stay. This is definitely one of my deciding factors, although there seems to be so much to do in Dubai. Thoughts? P.S. I originally wanted to go to Scotland, but don't think my husband has much interest. I love castles.

Just returned from England, Ireland and Scotland. If you've seen one castle, you've seen them all. If you want to do the Scotland thing, I'd suggest Edinburgh. Stay somewhere close and you can walk the royal mile which has Edinburgh Castle at one end and the Royal Palace (for when the Queen is in town) at the other. Nothing but shops and pubs (mostly shops) between the two.

Dubai is nice too, but I would personally never consider going there on vacation.

For us, Ireland was the best. We were there for 5 days starting in Dublin. Rented a car and visited Ireland's largest waterfall (powerscourt) and then drove to the Cliffs of Moher which were awesome. While in Dublin we did the pub thing a couple of times and enjoyed the mood, music and beer. Never had a bad meal, never met a sour person. Ireland was great. Scotland was (for me), blah.

 

[flomaster]

That assumption would be incorrect. I have spent time in the Saudi Kingdom, Iraq, Iran, UAE and Dubai. Doesn't change my opinion of what parts of the world I would choose for vacation. Guess I don't have a desire to ski indoors, hit the malls, waterparks or F1-X. Probably should since it was all built with mostly American dollars, but I don't.

Well places like Iraq, Iran and Saudi are nothing like Dubai but different strokes for different folks. Its just not a place I fear living in. My guard is up as it should be but overall its a great place to visit and experience.

 

[JordansMomma]

I go to Dubai in September for 3 months, and I CAN'T Wait!!!

 

[TGB]

I go to Dubai in September for 3 months, and I CAN'T Wait!!!

Definatley let me know when you get back. I am planning a family vacation for next year. my daughter wants Italy and the rest of us want Dubai(hubbys cousin works there) want to take the advantage. Then want to plan a road trip to Oman my cousin works there.

 

[MarkV]

Not saying anything good or bad abaout Dubai, but i personally would not visit or vacation in any Moslem country. JMHO.

Clothing
In public places dress modestly. In public places such as shopping malls and restaurants, women should not wear low-cut tops or short skirts. Swimwear should only be worn at the beach.

Alcohol
Non-Muslims are allowed to drink alcohol at licensed premises (hotel bars and restaurants) and at home (with an alcohol license). Being drunk outside these areas in an offence and can result in a fine or prison sentence.

Dubai Religion

If you're looking for a relaxing, stress-free vacation, Dubai is NOT the place for you. Alcohol is only served in 5-star hotels (hotel bars) at $10+ a drink. You might enjoy the beach, but if you wear even a modest swimsuit (by US standards) prepare for a thousand angry glares from conservative muslims. Wearing anything more revealing than traditional muslim garb will get you the same unwanted attention on the streets, despite 110 F temps during the day you are expected to be fully covered up.

Switzerland is beautiful and welcoming on the other hand!

 

[Bay_Kat]

We've decided on Cancun. Looked into a few places and the prices are very reasonable. Has anyone been, do you have a favorite place to stay? I like to get personal experiences vs. online reviews.