So you are tired of United Arab Emirates’ most renowned city, Dubai? The once upon a time small desert town has become a metropolis of limitless luxury patronized by clientele such as the super rich, honeymooners, shoppers, tourists and celebrities. Dubai may have big hotels, souks and golden sands, but there are alternative destinations that offer many wanderlust wishlist entries, and surplus luxury just like Dubai.
Here are 10 alternative destinations to consider:
Abu Dhabi, UAE
Abu Dhabi is the cosmopolitan and more developed neighbour to Dubai, always challenging world records and where nothing stands still. The exciting city is lavishly corrupt with classy hotels, high-rise buildings, skyscrapers and a variety of attractions. Attractions include Masdar City, the world’s first green, carbon-free, and zero waste city, the white-domed Sheikh Zayed Mosque that can accommodate 40,000 worshippers and the world’s largest hand-loomed carpet.
Shanghai, China
Dubai and Shanghai have something in common, the ‘ai’ at the end of their names, retail therapy galore and vibrant vortexes of opulence with skyscrapers. Both cities offer visitors rich cultural activities but Dubai is more expensive. If you want to enjoy the party spirit with alcohol and no limitation on your lifestyle, head to Shanghai.
Bordeaux, France
The romance of Paris has rubbed off on Bordeaux, a city with fewer crowds and thriving with bars, cafes, boutiques, delectable macaroons and canelé. With haute cuisine, fresh-products markets, and beautiful buildings, Bordeaux has everything you desire to experience in Dubai except its skyscrapers. Enjoy the delight of some of the best wine in the world in Bordeaux.
Beirut, Lebanon
Beirut combines history and hedonism with an exciting and additive mixed bag of experiences. From the original local flavour to the high-end boutiques, stunning Corniche promenade to weekend Souk El Tayeb farmers’ market, Beirut is a land of fun. The after-dark parties around Rue Gouraud can be best be experienced than explained.
Windhoek, Namibia
The capital city of Namibia, Windhoek offers a wide range of interesting experiences any time you visit. There are many sights to explore from local cultural heritage to German colonial influence in the city. It’s also home to great food and drinks (the beer is pretty good), pulsating nightlife, art and amazing cultural attractions. With a rich and storied history to explore as well as numerous things to do, Windhoek is a great alternative destination to Dubai and you should definitely visit!
Doha, Qatar
The irresistible makeover surgery carried out in the richest county in the world, Qatar over the years had made the city ‘the pride of the Gulf.’ While the world awaits the 2022 World Cup, Doha, the capital city is a world-class tourist destination with traces of its Arab-Islamic roots seen in the museums and souks (markets).
Istanbul, Turkey
Istanbul is a medley of jaw-dropping vistas and architectural structures with an exciting transcontinental beauty. The city is also the honeymoon spot of East and West, joining culture and people together. The city blends the past, present and future, attracting people from all over the world. Feel the modernity of the West and the mysticism of the East in the city as you explore top-drawer attractions and minarets including intriguing attractions.
Amman, Jordan
Embrace the Hashemite kingdom, a romantic sojourn in Amman. Amman is filled with a burgeoning arts scene and evidence of ancient past cities. The Rainbow Street brims with bars, shops, and boutiques while the ancient Nabataean city of Petra is a sight to behold. For your modern pursuits, the city is a jewel you may not want to leave.
Maldives
With magnificent beaches, 1192 coral atolls, world-class surfing, diving snorkelling and azure waters, Maldives is the perfect upscale alternative to Dubai. The Maldives is a bucket-list destination geared for adventurous and romantic rendezvous. Experience the sparkling blue waves created by bioluminescence in the night.
Réunion Island
A boat trip to Réunion Island will make you dump Dubai for this lush island filled with beaches and adventurous in nature. The island is unrivalled with an exciting array of activities including hiking canyoning and paragliding in an idyllic setting.
Oman
Oman is a combination of the modern and ancient with much historical importance. Thinking of a perfect city to rival Dubai, Oman has Muscat and Salalah. These cities offer amazing activities such as scuba diving, rock climbing, night safaris, or even camel racing.
Now we have dumped Dubai, which of these destinations have swept your feet away?
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