What is Souk Madinat Jumeirah?

Souk Madinat Jumeirah combines traditional Middle Eastern shopping culture of stands, barrows, and stalls with a mix of boutique brands, souvenir gift shops, luxury fashion, and jewelry.

It includes more than 25 restaurants offering cuisines from all over the globe. Every Souk Madinat Jumeirah restaurant and café offers picture-perfect views of the Arabian architecture, waterways, or the iconic Burj Al Arab Jumeirah. There are various entertainment activities, such as show-stopping performances at the Madinat Theatre. 

I'd love to help you plan your trip, so be sure to call or email me when you’re ready to start planning.

Fun Facts about The Palm Atlantis

Atlantis, The Palm is one of the biggest and well-known hotel resorts in the United Arab Emirates. Themed around the myth of Atlantis, it opened in 2008 and has become an icon of Dubai. It is home to one of the most expensive hotel rooms in the world, which comes with a team of chefs and butlers who will cater to your every need and desire. The hotel has two underwater suites, called Poseidon and Neptune. The suites have views of ancient ruins of Atlantis and up to 65,000 marine inhabitants. Atlantis houses 23 of the best restaurants in Dubai, including three outlets by celebrity chefs, Nobu Matsuhisa, Giorgio Locatelli, and Gordon Ramsay. 

Ready to go? I’d love to help you plan your trip, so be sure to call or email me when you are ready to travel!

Five (5) Crazy Fun Facts about Dubai

Five (5) crazy facts about Dubai:

  

         1.  Dubai is the fastest growing city in the world.

2    2.  In the Middle East, Dubai is the supply hub for the jewelry industry.

3    3.  Foreigners make up eighty percent of the residents of Dubai.

4    4.  You can you can ski indoors while shopping at the Dubai Emirates Mall, measuring 400      meters and 6000 tons of snow.

.     5.  Real estate and financial services in Dubai offer the majority of its revenues.

     Do these facts pique your interest in Dubai? If so, I’d love to help you plan your trip. So be sure to call or email me when you are ready to go.

Lots to do in Dubai, the City that never Sleeps

Dubai is the city that never sleeps. From night markets to food tours, there's no excuse to stay in once the sun goes down. With more than 30 glow-in-the-dark installations created by 150 artists and spread across 40 acres of park, Dubai Glow Garden is one of those city spots best appreciated after dark. Witness the spectacle of the Dubai Fountains show, test your swing in the dark at the glowing mini-golf course hidden in the depths of WAFI Mall, experience Dubai Creek by night from the comfort of a luxury dinner cruise and tackle your fitness goals at a 24-hour spa. Perk up your nightlife in Dubai. 

Call or email me when you’re ready to start planning!

Why Falcons are Important in the Emirati Culture

Falconry in Arabia dates back more than 2,000 years. The Peregrine Falcon is a symbol of the Bedouin culture. It is used to hunt and as a source of survival in the desert. Falconry is also a popular sport in the United Arab Emirates. It is usually practiced in the deserts and semi-deserts around the region.

If you want a first-hand experience, I’d love to help you plan your trip. So be sure to call or email me when you’re ready to start planning.

What is the Dubai Frame?

The eye-catching Dubai Frame is a landmark that is designed to give visitors a unique opportunity to experience the city's journey through time on three different levels: old Dubai, present Dubai and future Dubai. The museum on the ground floor tells the story of Dubai's transformation from a fishing village to a modern metropolis. The second part of the Dubai Frame represents present Dubai. The final part of the journey takes you through a swirling tunnel that features audio and visual effects that create an illusion of time travel. 

When you’re ready to travel, I'd love to help you plan your trip. So be sure to call or email me when you’re ready.

Get to Know a Culture through Local Markets

Travel back to the heart of old Dubai, where the bustling souks will delight your senses. The Perfume Souk is home to Arabian fragrances, and you can find jewels and precious metals at the Gold Souk. Visit the Textile Souk in Bur Dubai to dig through swathes of brightly-colored silks and embroidered fabrics. There is plenty of traditional shopping to be found at the famous Gold, Spice and Textile souks. 

I’d love to help you plan your trip, so be sure to call or email me when you’re ready to start planning.

Nice Restaurants and Lovely Architecture at the Dubai Marina

Dubai Marina is a beautiful artificial canal city, whose design is based on Vancouver’s False Creek. Many exciting things happen at the Dubai Marina: amazing cruises, great shopping, shows, festivals, and musical concerts. The list is endless. Here you'll find the city's top restaurants, entertainment complexes, and the world's tallest apartment buildings, each with a million-dollar view! Dubai Marina Walk features smart cafes and craft markets, while Dubai Marina Mall is packed with chain and luxury fashion brands. Upscale yachts cruise through the large man-made marina, where activities range from jet-skiing to skydiving. 

Whether you are looking for an adventure or a luxurious experience, I'd love to help you plan your trip. So be sure to call or email me when you’re ready to start planning.

Desert Fun - Camels, Sand Dunes, Camping, Driving Tours

There's a reason why they call Dubai the desert city. Make the most of its serene sandy landscape with a range of fun activities, whether you're looking to raise the adrenaline with quad-biking or relax on a luxury overnight escape. On a Desert Safari trip, you can enjoy the beautiful sunset or sunrise before reaching the campsite where you have the opportunity to do a camel ride, sand boarding and try out a henna design on your hand or foot. After working up an appetite, you can also enjoy a delicious barbecue meal and shisha (the famous Arabic water pipe) while watching a belly dancer perform around the campfire. 

Sounds exciting, right? I'd love to help you plan your trip, so be sure to call or email me when you’re ready to start planning.

Arabian Desert Fun Facts

The Arabian Desert is the fourth-largest desert in the world by area. During the summer, the temperature in the desert is around 104℉ or 40℃. There are mountains along its borders, and the highest point in the desert is Mount Al-Nabi Shu'ayb. If you zoom in on a map of the area, you can see that within those ranges lie the Rub’al Khali, the largest continuous expanse of sand in the whole world. It has fascinated travelers and is, of course, the backdrop for the fabulous Arabian nights stories featuring Ali Baba, Aladdin and Sinbad. 

Ready to fly? I’d love to help you plan your trip, so be sure to call or email me when you are ready.

Night Views of Dubai

Dubai is magical after the sun goes down, and many people frequent this city for its nightlife and ultramodern architecture. From adventurous night safaris in the Arabian deserts to the best nightclubs, there's no end to how much you can explore with the best of Dubai tour packages. The Uptown Bar at the very top of Jumeirah Beach Hotel is a place where you can relax outside while enjoying the cool Arabian breeze and admiring one of the most beautiful views in the city. 

When you’re ready to travel to Dubai, I'd love to help you plan your trip. So be sure to call or email me when you’re ready to go.

Sunrise Shot of Downtown Dubai

Why do you have to go to the top of Burj Khalifa during sunrise? Because it is awe-inspiring when you are standing high on the outdoor observation deck of the world's tallest building at the break of day. With clouds swirling below and the entire city of Dubai under your feet, you will feel like an all-powerful being as you gaze at the brilliant colors of the horizon miraculously transforming from a deep, splendid purple to a magnificent, shimmering orange. Burj Khalifa is a must-visit tourist destination. 

So be sure to call or email me when you’re ready to start planning!

Fun Facts about Medjool Dates

Medjool dates are thought to be the oldest fruit in the world, grown between the Tigris and Euphrates rivers before 3000 B.C. Most Medjool date consumption is holiday-related, but the fruit is fast becoming an everyday indulgence in smoothies and other recipes. They can be eaten out-of-hand,  seeded and stuffed with almonds and marzipan or chopped and used in various dishes. 

So if you want a taste of Dubai, be sure to call or email me when you’re ready to start planning.

Burj Al Arab Fun Fact

Burj Al Arab offers Dubai visitors a luxurious hotel experience.  It is the third tallest hotel in the world (321 meters), but despite its size, it holds only 28 double-story floors that accommodate 202 bedroom suites. It stands on an artificial island 280 meters from Jumeirah Beach. The shape of the structure mimics the sail of a ship. Burj Al Arab has been called "the world's only 7-star hotel.” 

You should plan to stay here when you visit Dubai. I’d love to help you plan your trip, so call or email me when you are ready to go!

Join us March 19 - March 27, 

Interesting Facts about Camels in Dubai

Camels are mostly famous for their humps. Most people believe that humps store water, but they actually store fat, which the animal uses as a source of energy when other food sources are not available. Camels are equipped for life in the desert. Their eyes have three eyelids and two rows of eyelashes that prevent sand from getting into their eyes. Camels can reach 7 feet in height (at the hump) and weigh up to 1,500 pounds. From camel racing to camel milk chocolate, these ships of the desert are an integral part of life in Dubai.

I'd love to help you meet these extraordinary creatures. So be sure to call or email me when you’re ready to start planning.

Join us March 19 - March 27, 2021 when we will vacation in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

3-Days in Dubai

Dubai Itinerary – 3 Days in Dubai

Is Dubai on your bucketlist? Why or Why not?

Dubai offers a full scope of different attractions for all age groups, and There's something for everybody in Dubai. There's a little bit of practically everything to do in this fantastic global city! Here is a three day Dubai Itinerary list of exciting activities to do when traveling to Dubai.

Remember, these 3 days in Dubai itinerary is just one of many ways to experience this fantastic country!

1: Hop-On Hop-Off Big Bus Tour

With the Hop-on Hop-off Big Bus Dubai Tour, you'll have an elevated view of the city from the comfort of an open-top bus as it moves through the Emirate.

You'll have the opportunity to see more than 40 different points of interest on this bus tour, and you can explore every part of this country. Important destinations to stop by on this tour includes The Burj Khalifa, Souk Madinat, The Palm, and Dubai Marina.

You can look over three different routes: the City Tour (red), the Beach Tour (green), or the Marina Tour (blue). With your Big Bus ticket, you'll gain admittance to the "Flamingo Lagoon Discovery" trip, which gives you the chance to watch exotic flamingos in the wildlife.

2. Dhow Dinner Cruise Dubai Creek

An ideal way to start your first day in Dubai is with a wonderful journey on the Dhow dinner cruise vessels, The dinner cruise is exciting, and you can enjoy a 5-star buffet that is so tasty! On this two-hour voyage, you'll set sail along the Dubai Creek, which is a famous waterway that divides the downtown zone into two distinct banks. You'll get the chance to see top nearby sights, including the National Bank of Dubai, the Chamber of Commerce Building, and various waterfronts.

3. Water Activities with SeaYou

SeaYou is a unique water sport specialized in non-motorized activities. SeaYou conducts regular classes for enthusiasts who are willing to try exhilarating adventures. Located at the Sofitel, Palm Resort & Spa, they offer a broad range of watersport activities in the amazing place of Palm Jumeirah. By booking a water activity from SeaYou, you can fully experience the wonders of the Palm with a paddleboarding or windsurfing session or a guided kayak tour. SeaYou's instructors offer assistance and are extremely helpful. They also guide beginners and encourage more experienced participants when they perform demonstrations to help everyone. These classes are fun, and the targets are achievable.

Be sure to contact us via email or DM to book your Dubai vacation.

Stunning Wildlife that South Africa Has to Offer

South Africa is home to a diverse range of wildlife, but perhaps no animals are more famous than the Big five. Originally a term coined by hunters, the Big Five include the elephant, rhino, buffalo, lion, and leopard. There are few places left where you can see all five of these magnificent creatures living in their natural habitat, but South Africa provides visitors this unique opportunity. Learn more about these native animals during a safari trip and experience a once in a lifetime sighting of them in the wild.  Don’t miss your chance to marvel at these famous and majestic creatures during your next trip to South Africa.

DM or email me today to learn more about where you can see the Big Five during your next trip.

Preparing for a Beautiful Hike in Unfamiliar Territory

South Africa is a nation that is defined by its sheer natural beauty. The best way to explore some of the country's most beautiful landscapes is on foot. Hiking in South Africa is guaranteed to lead you on an unforgettable adventure to some of the most beautiful spots in the country that you wouldn't otherwise find.  From day hikes to week-long treks, you'll discover cascading waterfalls, lush landscapes, and peaceful countryside. Take in the panoramic views of South Africa and appreciate the country's magnificent beauty.

DM or email me today to book your hiking trip through South Africa.

Cape Town Architecture

South Africa has been home to many different cultures throughout its history. As an essential stop along trade routes, South Africa quickly became a melting pot of cultural influence, including architecture and design. In Cape Town, these influences are very prevalent. Stately Victorian-era homes-turned-hotels are scattered throughout the city. Modern era buildings are also beginning to transform the skylines around the country as South Africa continues to develop an architectural style that is all it's own.

DM or email me today to learn more about planning a trip to South Africa.

Capturing Your Favorite Memories Without Leaving YOU Out

A trip to South Africa is the trip of a lifetime. From safaris to surfing, this country has so much to offer. It is the perfect place for you to travel with friends, family, or even solo. Regardless of who you go with and what you do, be sure to savor the memories and enjoy every moment of your trip. Don't just hide behind the camera, get out in front of it, and don't be afraid to ask a friendly local or fellow tourists to snap a picture. You'll be glad you did when you are reminiscing at home!

DM or email me to book your trip to South Africa today!

Visit Tsitsikamma National Park

South Africa's Garden Route is a coastal stretch of paradise. The route from Cape Town to Port Elizabeth offers awe-inspiring scenery unmatched anywhere else on earth. Along the route is the Tsitsikamma National Park. Tucked between the mountains and the sea, this park is one of South Africa's top destinations. Hike to the top of the mountains for sweeping views of the coastline or kayak up the Storms River mouth and surround yourself with the untouched landscape of South Africa.

Let’s plan your next adventure to the Tsitsikamma National Park. DM or email me today to get started.

Fun Facts about South Africa

South Africa is a country with a rich history and vibrant culture. Not only are there three capital cities, but the country also has 11 official languages, including Zulu and English. South Africa wasn't officially colonized until 1652, but cave painting has been discovered that date back some 75,000 years. Cave paintings are not the only historic discovery in South Africa. Some of the best fossils of early dinosaurs have been found in the  Karoo region in the Western Cape. In fact, it is estimated that almost 80% of the dinosaur fossils found to-date were found in the Karoo!

Dm or email me today to learn more about planning a trip to South Africa.

Great Hidden Beaches

South Africa is known for its stunning beaches that are popular destinations for tourists and locals alike. If you want to escape the crowds, the coastline is dotted with secluded beaches that make for a perfect getaway. Located on a lush and untouched part of the South Coast of KwaZulu-Natal is Umzube. Close to some of the more popular beaches, Umzumbe is the perfect secret hideaway. Tucked away in the Western Cape is the seaside town of Elanda Bay. This stretch of coastal area with a small-town charm that is also a popular surfing destination!

DM or email me today to book your next trip to South Africa.

The Traditional Mossbolletjies

If you want you to enjoy your morning coffee or tea like a local when in South Africa, be sure to order it with mosbolletjies. This traditional sweet bread is very similar to a brioche, and its origins date back to French settlers in South Africa in the late 1600s. Mosbolletjies are made from the leftover grape paste that is formed during the wine-making process, which is why they are typically only made during the wine-making season. When you sit down for your morning coffee, be sure not to miss out on this novel South African treat!

DM or email me today to start booking your next trip.

Astonishing Plant Life and Where to Find It

South Africa boasts a world of plants that are just as useful as they are beautiful. They range from the fine grasses of the Free State Province and scrubby bushes of the Karoo Region to the dense greenery of the Garden Route forests and the mountain plains of the country's inland. South Africa is home to more than 22,000 indigenous plants and is also home to 10% of the world's flowering species. Many of these plants are not only beautiful to admire, but they also play an essential role in the country's ecosystem and in producing natural medicines and remedies.

DM or email me today to begin planning your next trip to South Africa.

Beaded Dolls Used for Many Purposes in Africa

Across parts of South Africa, you are likely to see beautiful, handmade dolls in some of the shops. While these dolls can make for popular souvenirs, they have a significant meaning. Typically associated with the Ndebele tribe, these beaded dolls are created for young girls to play with as well as serving as a fertility charm for young women and to symbolize a woman's status in the tribe. Their design also varies according to region and customs, and no two dolls are the same.

DM or email me today to learn more about planning a trip to South Africa.

Beautiful Natural Landscape You Will Never Forget

From towering cliff faces to awe-inspiring coastlines, South Africa is home to breathtaking natural landscapes. Like something out of a movie, The Blyde River Canyon is renowned as being the largest 'green canyon' in the world. Situated on the famous Panorama Route, the area is home to many waterfalls and is a hiker's paradise. One of the most iconic natural attractions in South Africa is Victoria Falls. This UNESCO world heritage site is a must-see attraction. For the daredevil, hike your way to Devil's Pool, Devil's Pool, where you can stand, sit, or swim in a rock lip overlooking a 100-meter drop.

Discover the awe-inspiring landscape of South Africa. DM or email me today to plan your visit.

Learn about South Africa's Traditional Herbs and their Benefits

South Africa has a rich heritage of traditional herbal remedies thanks to the country’s abundance of indigenous plants known for their healing properties. With nearly 9,000 plant species found naturally in this area, it’s no surprise that many of South Africa’s traditional remedies are based on the curative properties of plants. Rooibos is a bush that only grows in the Western Cape and is said to have 50 times more antioxidants than green tea. The sour-fig plant is widespread across South Africa's coastal regions. The plant's fruit is often used to make jam while the juice of the leaves is considered to have antiseptic properties and used to treat cuts, insect bites, and sunburn. 

DM or email me today to learn more about planning a trip to South Africa.

One of the Top Safari Destinations

From big cats to charismatic penguins, majestic elephants, and speedy cheetahs, South Africa is home to a diverse range of wildlife. Just an hour's drive from Port Elizabeth is the Addo Elephant Park. As the third-largest park in South Africa, it is home to over 600 African elephants, as well as black rhino and antelope. As the oldest big game reserve in Africa, Hluhluwe Umfolozi should be on every traveler's bucket list. It's a popular Big Five park where visitors can view wildlife up close from the comfort of a safari vehicle.

DM or email me today to book your guided safari in South Africa.

The Culinary Tradition of Making South African Biltong

When you travel to South Africa, you'll probably notice biltong as a popular menu item, especially as an appetizer or snack. The practice of drying meat has been around for centuries, and its history can be traced to many different cultures. Biltong, specific to South Africa, was first created by the local indigenous tribes over 400 years ago. The traditional South African recipe includes creating a rub of rock salt, pepper, coarsely ground coriander, and vinegar. The meat is then air-dried and cut into thin slices and ready to be enjoyed.

DM or email me today to start planning your next trip to South Africa.

Muizenberg Beach Side Surburb of Cape Town

Located in a suburb of South Africa's Cape Town is the small seaside town of Muizenberg.  Famous for its colorful bungalows on the beach, the town is a picturesque destination. Situated in the South Peninsula, Muizenberg is known for its laid back lifestyle centered around the ocean. The main attraction in Muizenberg is undoubtedly it's long, sandy beach which stretches for miles around the False Bay coastline. At Surfer’s Corner, the small waves and gentle swell of the ocean provide the perfect conditions for learning to surf!

DM or email me today to book a surfing lesson during your next trip to Muizenberg!

10 Reasons to Use a Travel Agent that Specializes is African Travel

10 reasons to use a travel agent that specializes in African travel

Have you ever wanted to travel to South Africa?

If you don't use a travel agent that specializes in African travel, you might be missing out on a lot. We're living in a time when booking travel arrangements occur conveniently online. However, African safaris require some extra steps. We're going to look at ten reasons why you should use a travel agent that specializes in African travel when planning your trip.

1: They're Safari Experts

Travel agents specializing in African travel are experts through their personal traveling experience. They understand the significance of planning destination trips that aren't complicated.

2: Save Time

Planning an African safari involves a steep learning curve. Because there are fifty-four countries in Africa, that makes it challenging to find the perfect camp or lodge without help.

3: They Know the Logistics

Logistics include airports, dates, drop-offs, flights, pickups, times, and transfers. A travel agent with African expertise sorts all of that out for you.

4: Money Savings

Some believe using a travel agent is more expensive than booking independently. Travel agents know how to pass on preferred rates and show you special offers available to them.

5: Personalized Approach

A travel agent will ask you about your preferences and needs to help refine the best recommendations for your trip to Africa.

6: Continued Support

The relationship with your travel agent shouldn't end on the day you pay. Instead, this specialist will support you throughout your African adventure.

7: You Won't Make Mistakes

It's easy for mistakes to occur when planning and booking independently. Travel agents specializing in African travel know how to get you from Point A to Point B without errors.

8: They Have Contacts

Travel agents specializing in African travel have a directory of local contacts beyond camps and lodges. These contacts include guides and other professional organizations.

9: They'll Connect the Dots

Your travel plans should occur seamlessly--from dietary needs to medical issues and everything in between. Your African travel specialist will help you understand what to wear, how much cash you'll need, and much more.

10: Extra Layer of Protection

You must take out travel insurance if something goes wrong. However, using an African travel specialist means someone is available if an emergency occurs.

Final Thoughts

Are you ready to plan your African adventure? Now is the time to make a list of what you would like to do and start planning this vacation. As soon as you have a list of questions ready, your next step is to pick up the phone or send an email. That way, we can begin planning an unforgettable destination trip!

Be sure to give us a call or send us a message to book your African Vacation!