Hello dear readers! I’m excited to be back, and I’m eager to share some fresh tips with you right away. These tips are valuable for a couple of reasons: first, I want to make sure I don’t forget them, and second, I want to pass them on while they’re still vivid in my mind. For those of you who are seriously considering embarking on this adventurous journey, these tips could truly work to your advantage.
Let’s kick off with the first tip: When booking accommodations, consider a hotel that offers inclusive meals. During my recent stay at Riu Dubai booked through Expedia, I opted for an all-inclusive package. This choice turned out to be a fantastic money-saving strategy and a source of peace of mind, as dining in Dubai can be pricey. At Riu, breakfast, lunch, and dinner were served during specific 3-hour windows, each day featuring a diverse menu and a plethora of options.
Now, onto the next nugget of advice: If feasible, arrange for a private driver. Our wonderful driver, Bhupinder Sing, treated us like family. His courteous and dependable service was not only affordable but also invaluable. Why a driver, you ask? Taxis in Dubai can quickly drain your budget, as different companies charge varying rates. That brings me to the next pointer: Make sure to have WhatsApp installed. This messaging app is ubiquitous in Dubai and allows you to seamlessly communicate with your driver via Wi-Fi, even arranging transportation well in advance. By doing so, you can avoid pricey airport transfers and daily commute costs. And believe me, having a knowledgeable driver who takes you directly to your destination is a game-changer. You can text him on WhatsApp right now!
Speaking of excursions, I highly recommend booking them through the Headout App. No, this isn’t a sponsored endorsement; it’s simply the app that worked best for me. With each booking, you unlock discounts, so I suggest booking one event at a time to maximize savings. The digital QR code tickets provided were flawless and hassle-free.
Let’s chat about souvenirs and gifts. If you’re not careful, you might end up spending a fortune. While malls and souks offer pricey options, consider exploring local stores like Gifts 1 to 10 AED or Gifts 1-20 AED, Al Bassam Centre. These stores offer a variety of items, akin to US Dollar Stores, and the savings are incredible – up to five times less than what you’d pay at a mall or gift store. Not only will you feel like a local off the beaten path, but your wallet will thank you too.
Lastly, here’s a nifty trick: Bring along a folding backpack. Plastic bags aren’t widely promoted in Dubai’s malls, and paper bags can be cumbersome. My personal recommendation is the Maxtop bag from Amazon. It served as our daily go-to bag and doubled as my carry-on. Lightweight yet robust, it easily fits in your purse while sightseeing and expands when shopping.
Oh, and don’t forget about the souks, especially the Gold Souk. Business here is fast-paced, and without caution, you might overpay. Familiarize yourself with gold prices beforehand, as Dubai sells 18k, 21k, 22k, and 24k gold. Calculating the price per gram will safeguard you from paying exorbitant amounts. Be wary of merchants initially quoting high prices, much like car salesmen – if you show hesitance, the price can drop. Embrace the presence of guides who approach you; they often have a better understanding of the souk and can lead you to excellent deals.
I truly hope these insights prove valuable to you as you embark on your Dubai adventure. Enjoy the incredible wonders this city has to offer!
