Thursday, April 12 and Friday, April 13 find us in Dubai,
United Arab Emirates, a very modern desert city. Dubai has only one city, but it is made up
of over a million people. The older
quarter, Bur Dubai, is on the left bank of Dubai Creek and Deira, the commercial
center, is on the right bank.
In Deira, you will find some of the oldest and most interesting
markets (souks), as well as many glittering skyscrapers. The Old Covered souk and the Gold Souk still
preserve their old character – unlike many of the other more modern looking
shops.
One very interesting thing to do while in Dubai, besides
browse and shop the souks, is travel along the waterfront known as Dubai Creek. Currently only wooden ships, called dhows, are
allowed inside the Creek, for reasons of safety. The dhows represented the luxurious trade of
the Indian Ocean over many centuries.
Arriving Dubai, we were in our berth shortly before 1PM on Thursday. Fortunately, we were able to take a few
skyline photos as we traversed the harbor because soon a “sand storm” blew into
the area blocking all views. Many of the
tour excursions, especially the 4WD Desert Safari’s, were cancelled. Needless to say, there are disappointed
passengers. The tours have been
rescheduled for Friday but the weather conditions remain to be seen?
Next port of call will be Salalah, Oman on Monday, April 16.
