Dubai – An Evolving Hub of Luxury, Commerce and Sports in Middle Eastern Culture

 

The Dubai Desert between the UAE and Saudi Arabia.

Morning light on the desert between the UAE and Saudi Arabia.

Gliding silently above the Dubai desert on a dawn hot air balloon flight, one’s thoughts can easily drift into contemplation of the centuries of Bedouin tribal movements between the coastal fishing and trading areas to the desert oases where they farmed dates and vegetables. The sudden appearance below of a group of Emirati falconers out for a morning hunt with their treasured birds is a reminder that this is an old culture with strong traditions.

Emiratis out for a morning hunt with their prized falcons.

Emiratis out for a morning hunt with their prized falcons.

Remember, too, that until Emirates oil started pumping into the world marketplace after World War II, very little in the way of modern buildings existed here. The fact that the balloon’s basket is shared today by visitors from England, Italy, Germany, Canada and the U.S. reveals another story: Dubai is a now a robust and popular commercial and tourism destination.

Construction and modernization continues apace in Dubai.

Construction and modernization continues apace in Dubai. This is a view of the Dubai Yacht Harbor area from Palm Island, one of the world’s largest man-made islands.

The 16-hour non-stop flight from LAX’s Bradley International Terminal on Emirates Airlines follows an extraordinary route over Greenland, Central Russia and then down through an airway over the Arabian Gulf with Iran to the east and Iraq to the west. The seat-back video screen shows exotic names of cities along the flight path and the 3-camera view of the flight is fun, especially during a night landing. The remarkable double-decked A380 Airbus is clean and comfortable, even in economy, and the flight is well-staffed with an international crew.  If you just won the lottery you can also book a private apartment in first class.

The flight plan of the LAX-Dubai Emirates Airlines flight is nothing less than fascinating for a traveler and the seatback screen keeps you updated.

The flight plan of the LAX-Dubai Emirates Airlines flight is nothing less than fascinating for a traveler and the seatback screen keeps you updated. Yes, that’s St. Petersburg and Moscow you just flew over and, yes, that’s Iran off the port side.

There is a multi-story waterfall to greet you at Dubai International Airport. Customs and Immigration was polite, swift and welcoming; staffed equally by male and female officers.

The Dubai International Airport is vast and amazing. It includes a dramatic waterfall.

The Dubai International Airport is vast and amazing. It includes a dramatic waterfall.

The flight reader board at Dubai International Airport gives you an idea of Dubai as a hub.

The flight reader board at Dubai International Airport gives you an idea of Dubai as a hub.

The first stop on this trip was the grand opening of Four Seasons Dubai, right on the Gulf, and very much up to Four Seasons standards. As expected, the rooms are luxurious, with views of the water and grounds and have an understated flavor of Dubai and the Middle East about them.

All the rooms at Four Seasons Dubai have dramatic views of the Arabian Gulf.

All the rooms at Four Seasons Dubai have dramatic views of the Arabian Gulf.

The Arabesque theme extends throughout the resort in an elegant way, from the lattice work and the window shapes in the lobby up to the chic rooftop Mercury Lounge and its dazzling night views of the futuristic Dubai skyline. The company’s designers, supervised by VP-Design Dana Kalczak, have a way of swirling the local culture around their properties and Four Seasons Dubai is no exception. With a nod to British times, Hendrick’s Bar, off the lobby, is a club atmosphere and an elegant one. A comfortable, well-appointed place for a martini or gin and tonic at cocktail hour.

The stately Hendricks Bar off Four Seasons Dubai's lobby is a leathery throwback to a British Club.

The stately Hendricks Bar off Four Seasons Dubai’s lobby is an elegant throwback to a British Club. A good place for gin.

The Arabesque themes carry through Four Seasons Dubai and enhance the character of one's stay.

The Arabesque themes carry through Four Seasons Dubai and enhance the character of one’s stay.

Cleverly incorporated views abound at Four Seasons Dubai.

Cleverly incorporated views abound at Four Seasons Dubai.

The Mercury Lounge at Four Seasons Dubai is a great place to relax and contemplate the remarkable transition of Dubai from a Bedouin village to an ultra modern international tourism and commercial hub.

The Mercury Lounge at Four Seasons Dubai is a great place to relax and contemplate the remarkable transition of Dubai from a Bedouin village to an ultra modern international tourism and commercial hub. The Burj Kalifa is the tall building in the distance.

We also had some clever seafood dishes at Sea Fu, including a seemingly minutes-fresh Alaskan Cod. Here’s to jet cargo service. Chef de Cuisine Pierre Barusta is a talented innovator and waves a French and Asian wand across a wide range of meal choices in a modern, intimate setting.

The well-executed international theme at Suq, the more casual of the in-house dining choices at Four Seasons Dubai, is great for morning meet-ups and fun to play in for meal choices. Giving the range of palates of guests, there are stations for just about everything. You can fill your plate with South Asian food on one trip to the serving area and return for a reliable omelet cooked to order. Overseen by Executive Chef Gilles Arzur, both Suq and Sea Fu also have beckoning patios if al fresco dining in the warm Dubai air calls to you.

Confessions of a hearty breakfast fan: The buffet at Suq is addictive.

Confessions of a hearty breakfast fan: The buffet at Suq is addictive.

Finally, regarding Four Seasons Dubai, it is truly impressive how the international staff conveys honest hospitality and charm while not seeming overly obsequious, all the while remembering guests’ names almost magically. When I mentioned this to Four Seasons Regional VP and General Manager Simon Casson he described his thorough hiring process and how he can see if an acumen for customer service is “in there” with his applicants.

In Dubai's old Gold Souk, all that glitters is, in fact, gold. Selling phony gold here is a very big no, no.

In Dubai’s old Gold Souk, all that glitters, in fact, is gold. Selling phony gold here is not tolerated.

Everyone hears about The Dubai Mail but not everyone visits the old Souk area which includes The Gold Souk (no fake gold here), The Spice Souk and the smaller Flower Market. Located along historic Dubai Creek, which divides the Deira and Bur Dubai sections of the city, these souks are crammed with dazzling gold shops whose intricate wares gleam from the show windows. Spices from Iran, India and other exotic sources are displayed in barrels and bins, filling the air with tangy aromas.

The fascinating and aromatic Spice Souk in old Dubai is a reminder of centuries of trade, even among regional rivals.

The fascinating and aromatic Spice Souk in old Dubai is a reminder of centuries of trade, even among regional rivals.

Ride an abra, water taxi, across Dubai Creek and see small trading vessels from around the Arabian Gulf.

Ride an abra, water taxi, across Dubai Creek and see small trading vessels from around the Arabian Gulf.

A ride in an abra, the traditional water taxi, across wide Dubai Creek gives you a sense of the early trading atmosphere of the area. Even with new container facilities in the larger port area, smaller vessels still ply these waters bringing goods to the souks and other local businesses and can be seen nested together along the quay. This view, along Dubai Creek, with mosque minarets and wind towers on the skyline, along with the haunting call to prayers, captures the imagination. In this older part of Dubai, there is also a Coffee Museum (remember, coffee originated in this part of the world), the Dubai Museum and the Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Center for Cultural Understanding, which is very much worth scheduling a visit.

The Coffee Museum in old Dubai is a fascinating look at the history of coffee in the Bedouin culture.

The Coffee Museum in old Dubai is a fascinating look at the history of coffee in the Bedouin culture.

The Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding lives up to its name in old Dubai.

The Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding lives up to its name in old Dubai.

One of the docents at the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Understanding enlightened us about Emerati life, education and social mores; even about dating from a young woman's point of view.

One of the docents at the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Understanding enlightened us about Emirati life, education and social mores; even about dating from a young woman’s point of view.

Dubai is a melting pot of cultures with workers from myriad origins: the Philippines, India, Pakistan, Malaysia, Africa, Europe and elsewhere. All the new high-rise and infrastructure construction has drawn many people with little or no work in their home countries. Additionally, the new hospitals, colleges, hotels and sports facilities have drawn expat professionals from all over the world.

People from all over the world have come to Dubai to find work and opportunity, including these bakers from the Philippines.

People from all over the world have come to Dubai to find work and opportunity, including these bakers from the Philippines.

This is Captain Helen, from Ethiopia. She drives an abra launch at the Madinat Jumeirah hotel. Helen is an example of people from around the world who have come to Dubai to work.

This is Captain Helen, from Ethiopia. She drives an abra launch at the Madinat Jumeirah hotel. Helen is an example of people from around the world who have come to Dubai to work.

The man most responsible for Dubai’s smart vision and impressive growth is His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. He is a very hands-on and involved ruler and can sometimes be seen driving his own vehicle through Dubai traffic without ceremony. Accompanying Dubai’s astonishing architecture and development, Sheikh Mohammed has also encouraged sustainability and stewardship of natural resources, including seawater desalination, solar power and even a sea turtle rehabilitation facility. His extended family’s leadership and his close ties to other Emirati leaders, including Abu Dhabi’s Sheikh Kalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, is positioning the UAE to a future less dependent on oil.

The Burj Kalifa, almost pinch-yourself unbelievable in its soaring height.

The Burj Kalifa, almost pinch-yourself unbelievable in its soaring height.

The modern architecture that now comprises the Dubai skyline is stunning. The Burj Kalifa, at 163 floors, is currently the tallest man-made structure in the world. The observation deck is on the 122nd floor and provides a dazzling view of Dubai, the famous man-made islands offshore in the Arabian Gulf and the desert to the west.

Views from the Burj Kalifa's 122nd floor Observation Deck make it possible to see the man-made islands in the Arabian Gulf.

Views from the Burj Kalifa’s 122nd floor Observation Deck make it possible to see the man-made islands in the Arabian Gulf.

Visitors to the Burj Kalifa's 122nd floor Observation Deck.

Visitors to the Burj Kalifa’s 122nd floor Observation Deck.

Combining a visit to the Burj Kalifa with a trip to the Dubai Mall can be a full day, especially staying for dramatic lighted fountains in the evening. The Dubai mall contains a ski slope, an aquarium and about 1,200 shops.

The Aquarium in the Dubai Mall.

The Aquarium in the Dubai Mall.

On the coast, along Jumeirah Beach stands the iconic Burj Al Arab, with its one of a kind sail-like architecture, heliport and restaurant appurtenances. Viewed from any direction, one just wants to stare at this unique 5-star hotel, built on an artificial island.

The architecturally unique Burj Al Arab stands, sail-like on its own island.

The architecturally unique Burj Al Arab stands, sail-like on its own island.

Further southwest, the causeway to Palm Island Jumeirah takes off and winds around this island made of sand and protected by rocks hauled from the mountain areas near Oman. From the air, Palm Island looks just like its name (and can be seen from space). This is one of the world’s largest man-made islands with sprawling villas and resorts. The vistas towards the shore from Palm Island’s wide promenades are equally impressive with new buildings surrounding the Dubai yacht harbor springing up weekly it seems.

Some of the new construction in the Dubai Yacht Harbor area.

Some of the new construction in the Dubai Yacht Harbor area.

We were lucky to be introduced to the staff of Venue & Concept, a boutique tour company with experienced and personable multi-lingual guides. On one of the tours, Jorge Fonseca, Managing Partner of V&C, arranged a visit to the magnificent Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi, just an hour from Dubai.

The remarkable

The remarkable Sheikh Zayad Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi is a highly recommended visit.

Docents at the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque are courteous and informative.

Docents at the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque are courteous and informative.

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The scale and oppulence of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi is amazing.

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A night view of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi.

The scale of the mosque is awesome. Inside, it is at once opulent, intricate and holy. Adhering to tradition, women must be covered and near the entrance abayas are provided at no charge. Guides take groups of visitors though the mosque and describe construction details, history and rituals of worship. As well as the Grand Mosque, Abu Dhabi will soon have a branch of The Louvre and a Frank Gehry-designed Guggenheim Museum.

Abu Dhabi, Dubai's neighbor and fellow UAE member is engaged in its own building boom.

Abu Dhabi, Dubai’s neighbor and fellow UAE member is engaged in its own building boom.

Our second hotel stay was at the Madinat Jumeirah resort, on the beach of the same name. This is a huge resort which shares the property with the equally luxurious Mina A’Salam hotel, all connected by a clever set of canals circulate with fresh seawater and are served by a flotilla of abras (water taxis) captained by hotel staff, both male and female. Convenient quays, with radio-equipped attendants mean that guests never have to wait too long for a boat. This is a fun way to get around the vast resorts and a very romantic and evocative ride at night. Also, there is no shortage of “buggies” (6-seater golf carts) if travel by the many paths is preferred. Both abras and buggies are electric-powered.

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The beach at the Madinat Jumeirah resort also includes a view of the Burj Al Arab.

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Abra launches move guests along the lagoons of the Madinat Jumeirah resort. These lagoons are refreshed all during the day by sea water from the Arabian Gulf.

Excellent restaurants abound between the two hotels and the beach isconvenient and well-staffed with attendants. We stayed in one of the Dar Al Masyaf Villas at the Madinat. Each villa has about 10 large rooms on two floors surrounding a large courtyard, plus a wonderful butler service, which includes a delightful happy hour in the evening in the common main salon or the patio. The butler is more like a concierge and can arrange just about anything from his/her desk in each villa’s reception area. Each villa also has a refreshing large pool, monitored by a lifeguard, and surrounded by comfortable lounge chairs. The Dar Al Masyaf concept is particularly good for groups and families.

Some of the art on the grounds of the Madinat Jumeirah resort

Some of the art on the grounds of the Madinat Jumeirah resort

Magnificent Arabian horse sculpture at the grand entrance to the Madinat Jumeirah resort depict the Emirati's deep love for horses.

Magnificent Arabian horse sculpture at the grand entrance to the Madinat Jumeirah resort depict the Emirati’s deep love for horses.

I like to call this a "Dubai Pontiac."

I like to call this a “Dubai Pontiac.” Parked in front of the Madinat Jumeirah resort.

It was from the Madinat that we embarked on more adventures, including a posh visit to the world-class Meydan Racetrack on the outskirts of the main city. Horse breeding, racing and other equestrian endeavors have deep roots in Arabian culture and here at Meydan is the modern manifestation of this great sport. No expense has been spared to create arguably one of the finest horse racing facilities in the world. If you visit, try to dine at “Silks” in the Clubhouse. 

The vast and elegant Meydan Race Track, one of the world's finest horse racing venues.

The vast and elegant Meydan Race Track, one of the world’s finest horse racing venues.

Another outing took us to the grandstands of the “Dubai Rugby Sevens,” competition, part of an international tour that brings men’s and women’s country teams such as South Africa, Fiji, Australia, Great Britain, U.S. and Europeans into fast-paced time-sensitive matches of great importance in the world of rugby. It is fun to watch, easy to understand with a brief study, and yet another example of Dubai’s committed effort to become a sports tourism destination.

Rugby Sevens international tournament at Dubai's rugby stadium.

Rugby Sevens international tournament at Dubai’s rugby stadium.

For the dawn hot air balloon ride in the desert, we were picked up by the uniformed folks from Balloon Adventures at 0400 and driven in their comfortable van out to our desert launch site. After a safety briefing by our German pilot, the ground crew filled the giant balloon with hot air and we climbed into the basket for launch. We slowly lifted from the desert floor and ascended in the morning air to about 4,000 feet, just as the sun was beginning to rise over the mountains to the east. Let’s just say that a hush fell over most of us as we regarded the vast desert bathed in morning light; so much history in the endless dunes, stretching west to Saudi Arabia and beyond. The flight lasted more than an hour as we drifted along, pushed by the gentle morning breeze, the odd fox or gazelle suddenly spooked by our big balloon

Filling the balloon with hot air in the pre-dawn.

Filling the balloon with hot air in the pre-dawn.

A desert hot air ballon voyage can be dreamy.

A desert hot air balloon voyage in Dubai can be dreamy.

Dubai is trying to get it right for the future of her people. Her rulers know that the end of oil is right around the corner. Re-invention is the key and in a place where the sun shines almost every day the construction of world class attractions continues apace.

The UAE has tremendous national pride.

The UAE has tremendous national pride.

A solid, sustainable infrastructure is in place for this growing destination as well as a firm commitment to the safety and security of Dubai’s citizens and visitors. Dubai won the right to host The World Expo 2020 and, based on the progress being made, it promises to be a big success.

When you go:

Dubai Tourism

Emirates Airlines

Four Seasons Dubai

Madinat Jumeirah

 Venue and Concept Tour Guides

Balloon Adventures Emirates

 Sheikh Mohammed Center for Cultural Understanding

Palm Springs – Natural Beauty High and Low

Story and Photos © Frank DiMarco

The thing I like the most about the Palm Springs Tram is that the cabin rotates while you are transported to and from the lofty Mountain Station 8,516 feet into the mountains of San Jacinto State Park.

Thus begins a jaunt to enjoy some of the “high” natural beauty of the Palm Springs area.

You will rise through five unique life zones from the Sonoran Desert Zone at the bottom to the Arctic Alpine Zone at the top. In the winter expect some snow; in the summer expect some real heat. Either way, water is a smart companion, and packing a lunch for a picnic is a great idea.

View from The Palm Springs Tram

On our trip up we shared the tram cabin with an international range of people from elderly grandmothers to young eco-hipsters with hi-tech snowshoes and camping gear, ready to adventure beyond the “To Wilderness” sign on the trail guide. Once on top, taking a few moments to acclimate to the altitude, you can set off for a modest hike from Mountain Station along several well-marked trails or set yourself up for a more extensive guided or self-guided hike with advice from the Adventure Center, a short distance from the Mountain Station terminal. None of the trails will disappoint as this is breathtakingly beautiful and rugged country.

A beautiful wilderness awaits at the top of the tram

Though wildlife frequently tends to stay hidden from humans, this is a habitat for bighorn sheep, bobcats, mountain lions, coyotes, hawks, foxes and deer, along with the usual suspects of birds and squirrels. Alpine flora of the area can range from cactus to white fir, big cone pines and colorful wildflowers, especially in the Spring.

Awesome views from Mountain Station

 

Once you are back to Mountain Station from your hike, a visit to the Forestry Department shop is very interesting as is the adjacent display of taxidermy. And, importantly, the Lookout Lounge serves a delicious Bloody Mary while food is served in two restaurants in this mountain aerie.

The tram operates from 10AM on weekdays and 8AM on weekends with the last tram down at 9:45PM, giving you a full-day in the mountains if you wish. More details at http://www.pstramway.com Tel. 760.325.1449

So, what do I mean by the “low” natural beauty of Palm Springs? This refers to the cool canyons of the Agua Caliente Indian Reservation. The Aqua Caliente Band of the Cahuilla Indians have been in the Palm Springs area for centuries. In ancient times they thrived due to a good water supply, growing a wide range of crops as well as sustainably harvesting the natural wildlife and plants.

Palm grove in the Indian Canyons in Palm Springs

With the 1876 acts of the U.S. Government, the Agua Caliente Indians were deeded 32,000 acres of the area for their homeland, some of the land lying within the Palm Springs city limits. Now, several of the beautiful canyons are listed on the National Register of Historic Places and a hike in them is a unique experience.

To get to the Indian Canyons, drive out South Palm Canyon Drive and you’ll come to the entrance where you’ll pay admission to this sacred land and receive a good trail map. The trails are marked by difficulty so visitors can match their strength and health to their hikes.

Along the Andreas Trail in Indian Canyons area.

We hiked in both the Andreas and Palm Canyons and found them to be tranquil and full of a sense of history. The rocks and flora are beautiful with the ancient palms the stars of this natural beauty show. Palm Canyon, 15 miles deep, is redolent with this sense of history and with examples of ancient living quarters trailside. Frequent ranger talks are given at the trailhead Trading Post. While informal, these talks draw visitors and a good place to learn some details about how the ancient tribe members lived.

Some of the awesome cacti plants in Indian Canyons.

As always, plan ahead, and pay close attention to the precautions of hiking in the desert. Stay hydrated, sun-protected and be watchful for rattlesnakes.

Tranquil creekside area along Palm Canyon Trail in Indian Canyons.

More information: http://www.indian-canyons.com Tel. 760.323.6018 Before moving on, some additional websites for desert touring are http://www.desertmountains.org and http://www.nps.gov/jotr which will provide you with some basic information about a side trip to the beautiful Joshua Tree National Park located near Palm Springs.

OK, let’s eat.

Breakfast can be a make-or-break-the-day meal and I would challenge anyone to find a more consistent and hearty morning meal than Elmer’s at 1030 E. Palm Canyon Drive. The staff at the Palm Springs incarnation is particularly cohesive in their service and if you are looking for fare that will get you through a morning hike and beyond, Elmer’s is for you. On our recent visit, it was encouraging to see one of the owner’s of all the Elmer’s working the door, and greeting people around the restaurant. Loved the berry crepes. http://eatatelmers.com/?q=content/see-whats-cooking

For lighter morning fare and a scene-and-be-seen experience, try Palm Springs Koffi at 515 North Palm Canyon Drive. On a typical blue-sky Palm Springs morning, we took our coffees and pastries out back where there are lots of chairs available on the large lawn for dawdling over a paper, comparing dog notes or simply people watching; a fun place with a sistership now open at 1700 South Camino Real. http://www.kofficoffee.com

Ernesto Gastelum shares a passion for his native Sinaloan cooking with his customers at Rio Azul at 350 South Indian Canyon Drive. I’ve never had guacamole prepared tableside, a starter treat which we followed with Carne Asada with Enchilada and Adobado Shrimp. Great Margaritas and an entertaining and personable floor staff. http://www.rioazulpalmsprings.com

I’ll also include a couple of recommendations from my friend and food blogger Amy Sherman http://www.cookingwithamy.com She likes Trio Restaurant at 707 North Canyon Drive http://www.triopalmsprings.com for their Porterhouse Pork Chop and Australian Sea Bass and the King’s Highway in the Ace Hotel at 701 East Palm Canyon for their Ricotta Pancakes and Homemade Lox. http://www.acehotel.com/palmsprings

With air service directly into Palm Springs from major hubs, and a couple ofhours drive from L.A. proper, Palm Springs is accessible to a wide-range of visitors. Lodging is abundant at numerous retro-themed hotels and home rentals are a big thing as well. Web searches will surprise you with the options for stays.

Magic hours like this are common in Palm Springs.

A personal favorite of mine is the elegant and quiet Korakia Pensione at 257 S. Patencio Road with its amazing history, ambience and personal attention. Set close to the west mountains, it is central to town but with the feel of “off on your own.” We had an delightful stay there a few years ago and a recent re-observation was encouraging. http://www.korakia.com/ Even if you don’t stay there, check out the history on their website and drive by for a look.

Palm Springs, has a very long history with artistic people and the arts in general. The Palm Springs International Film Festival draws big name speakers and films and frequent food, wine and art festivals draw lots of visitors. Outdoor activities such as golf, biking and hiking will keep your interest and keep you in shape. Shopping? Lots of it along the main drag.

Downtown Palm Springs is famous for The Follies.

And don’t forget one of the longest running (30 years) fun shows in the desert, the Fabulous Palm Springs Follies! http://www.psfollies.com

Visit http://www.visitpalmsprings.com/ for lots more information on this great, venerable desert destination. And enjoy the “highs and lows” of Palm Springs’ beautiful setting.

I’ve posted more images at http://www.dimarcoimages.com/palmsprings/