The Dubai Experience

Our 14 hour flight from Houston took us to the magical city of Dubai.  Magical because the city at night seemed to sparkle and shine.

After touching down in Dubai, our fairly large group of Camp Life travelers bussed over to our Emirates Hotel.  We checked in and freshened up before rushing to our 9 pm appointment to see the Burj Khalifa.  The Burj Khalifa is the tallest building in the world and is the center and apex of an incredible Dubai nightlife.  We walked among all different ethnicities taking the city in with all of its resplendent glory!

Looking up at the Burj Kahlifa

The elevator at the Burj Kahlifa took us 124 stories up in under three minutes. Fun facts dotted the hallways of the building, including that our TINY elevator was one of the fastest in the world.  Opening to an outdoor observation deck.  Looking down upon the city of Dubai took my breath away literally (not just because of the thinner air!).

View from the Observation Deck

At the Top!

Our ride down!

The famous fountain show began as we stood above on the observation deck and we were able to take it in from above as the glowing water shot into the air creating amazing designs.  A few million pictures later the deck was closed for the evening and we returned to earth and the lobby of the Burj Khalifa.  We found a few interesting trinkets before heading out in search of food in the mall at the base of the building.  It was about 11 pm yet the mall was alive with energy.

We ate at an authentic, delicious restaurant.  After a filling meal we began our search for Dubai chocolates.  You have heard, "when in Rome.....", well, when in Dubai, you must seek the fabulous chocolates.  The chocolate stores here are like nothing you have seen in the US.  Crystal chandeliers and massive floral arrangements invite you into the stores where you are offered tastings of the handmade chocolates. We chose to take a few back to the hotel.

Giant floral displays mock the crystal chandelier in one of the Chocolate Shops

Each choclate is handmade with only the finest ingredients

We hailed a taxi to return us to the hotel and settled in for a short NAP!  Katie and I were exhausted and slept a few short hours before rising early to catch our Lusaka, Zambia flight.

The city of Dubai is a destination that I will never forget.  But my excitement grows for my arrival in Africa today!