La Aventura

One of my favorite family traditions is our annual, international vacation. Growing up, my mom always planned local family adventures and outings, but at least once a year she would try to take us somewhere outside of the US. From Europe to the Caribbean, she was never shy about exposing us to new countries or cultures. These family vacations are one of the reasons that traveling became a passion of mine, and for that I am so grateful!

Now, that both my sister and I are grown, working adults, family vacations can be a little more bougie, so this year we hopped the Atlantic and went to Dubai. Here are some of the highlights from our epic family vacation…

Visit the Burj Khalifa, The World’s Tallest Building

What is a trip to Dubai without visiting THE World’s Tallest Building? In the heart of downtown Dubai, overlooking the Dubai Mall and Fountain, the Burj Khalifa stands 2,722 ft tall (8299 meters). Of the 163 floors, ~116 of them are occupied by residents – I can’t even imagine how much rent cost! Just like other famous skyscrapers in the world, the Burj has an indoor and outdoor observatory deck, where tourist can check out the city from above. Don’t look down for too long or you will get dizzy! Getting to the top of the Burj is a breeze, however, getting back down can be a little slow. Go on a weekday or when they first open to avoid the crowds. Tickets for the Burj can be purchased in advance on Viator, be sure your ticket includes “at the top” access (deck levels 124 and 125). These levels have the best views and photo spots. Check out my parents enjoying the view from level 124!

Splurge on a High Tea Experience

It is customary in Arabic culture to enjoy tea after a meal, especially when guests are present It is a symbol of hospitality and social connection. It is impossible not to have some great conversation over a cup of tea. Dubai has remixed after dinner tea to create unique afternoon tea experiences. There are numerous hotels and cafes that offer high tea experiences, where guests can enjoy bougie bites and unlimited tea and coffee for a few hours. My sister chose the SocialBee High Tea Experience at the SocialBee cafe inside of the Hilton Palm Jumeriah Hotel. This is a luxurious experience that I highly recommend to beat the heat in Dubai. It is a great way to enjoy some delicious treats and meaningful conversation with your travel companions to either kick off or finish out your trip. You can read more about this experience in my previous post.

Pool? Beach? or Both!

Whether you are a beach bum or a pool girlie, Dubai has something for everyone! While our hotel had a pool, I wanted to visit one with a spectacular view. Located on the 50th floor of the Palm Tower Hotel, Aura Sky Pool is a luxurious 360-view infinity pool club where you can enjoy stellar service and views. Book a day pass and enjoy a private lounger and a complimentary goodie bag. Swim around the entire building and enjoy the view of the city and the Palm. Day passes start at 250AED ($68 USD).

If you prefer to be on solid ground and enjoy the beach, head over to Jumeriah Beach and soak up some sun. My sister was staying at the Hilton Palm Jumeriah, so we hung out at her hotel, which had direct beach access, for the day. You can also book a day pass at a beach club in the area if your hotel does not have direct beach access.

Shop & Dine at the Dubai Mall

After seeing the Dubai Mall and Fountain from above in the Burj Khalifa, come back down to earth and explore them up close! Get your steps in walking the enormous Dubai Mall and check out some of your favorite designer and general stores. If you get tired find a restaurant or cafe that has balcony views of the Dubai Fountain and the Burj. I recommend Joe’s Cafe! They have one of the best balcony views! The service and food were great and our waiter knew all the best photo angles! I recommend making a reservation to ensure you get a balcony table!

Take a Day Trip to Abu Dhabi

Book a day trip to Abu Dhabi and see the Grand Mosque. Just a few hours drive from Dubai you can see one of the most beautiful mosques in the world! My parents did this excursion on a free day of our vacation. If you are a woman, come prepared with modest clothing so that you are permitted to enter the mosque.

Bargain for Gold & Spices at the Souks

Sugar, spice, and everything nice! The Souks (traditional markets) in Dubai are the place to be if you are looking for quality spices and gold to take back home. Take a trip back in time and roam the market square looking for deals. Be ready to bargain and haggle for the best price. Be sure to buy some camel milk chocolate dipped dates. The shop we bought spices from gave us a handful for free and I ate them all! So delicious!