Where to rent a yacht in Catania?

At the foot of the Burj Khalifa, in the heart of the city, lies the Dubai Fountain, the largest choreographic fountain in the world. Imagine: evening comes, and suddenly the dark surface of the lake comes to life with thousands of jets of water soaring to a height of 150 meters. To the beat of the music — from classical Arabic melodies to modern world hits — the water dances, changing colors and shapes. I stood among the mesmerized crowd, feeling the cool spray on my face and forgetting about the time. This show repeats every half hour, and each time it seems unique. Nearby there are cozy restaurants and cafes where you can enjoy the view with a cup of tea or something stronger.

Dubai may seem like an ultra-modern city of glass and steel, but behind the shine of the skyscrapers lie neighborhoods where one can feel the spirit of the past. One such place is Al Fahidi, also known as Bastakiya. As I wandered through its narrow streets, I felt like a time traveler. The traditional houses with wind towers, built from coral stone and gypsum, told stories of how people lived here centuries ago. I visited the Dubai Museum, located in Al Fahidi Fort, the oldest building in the city. Inside, I was greeted by exhibits that narrated the lives of Bedouins, pearl diving, and the trade that made Dubai what it is today. Don’t miss Deira, home to the famous markets—the Gold Souk, Spice Souk, and Fish Market. Here, the aromas and sounds of the East create a unique atmosphere, and the opportunity to haggle with vendors adds to the charm.

Dubai Miracle Garden is the world's largest flower park, covering an area of over 72,000 square meters. It features impressive floral arrangements, sculptures and installations created from more than 50 million flowers. The park is constantly being updated, offering visitors new and exciting exhibitions every season. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Dubai. When is it open to the public? Dubai Miracle Garden is usually open to the public from mid-November to mid-May. The park is closed for the summer months due to the high temperature, which does not allow the flowers to stay fresh. It is recommended to check the park's official website before visiting to find out the exact opening and closing dates, as well as opening hours.

Popular islands to visit by yacht include: - Islands Of The World: A complex of artificial islands, each of which represents a part of the world. - Moon Island: a small island in the shape of a moon. There is wonderful fishing and a beautiful beach.

Despite rapid development, Dubai preserves its cultural roots through traditional crafts. In the Deira market, I watched craftsmen create exquisite silver jewelry and copperware. Pottery is also popular, and in some workshops, you can see how beautiful vessels and decorative elements are born from clay. I was particularly impressed by the art of calligraphy: Arabic letters transform into works of art, decorating homes and public places. Weaving and rug making are another traditional craft, using intricate patterns and natural materials. In Al Fahidi, a historic district, I visited the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding, where you can not only see these crafts but also try your hand at them under the guidance of local masters.

Dubai prides itself on its cultural program, offering festivals for all tastes. Dubai Shopping Festival, held in January-February, combines shopping with entertainment, fireworks, and concerts. I attended Dubai Food Festival, where I was able to try dishes from local and international chefs, participate in masterclasses, and visit farmers' markets. Art Dubai is the largest art fair in the Middle East, bringing together artists and collectors from around the world. I was impressed by the diversity of the works presented, from traditional to avant-garde. During Ramadan Night Market, you can get acquainted with the culture and traditions of Ramadan, try national dishes, and buy unique souvenirs.

Dubai is a real paradise for shopping lovers, offering many opportunities: Shopping malls: Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates, Ibn Battuta Mall and others. Traditional markets (souks): Gold Souk, Spice Souk, Textile Souk. - Boutiques: Luxury boutiques in shopping malls and hotels. - Trade festivals: The annual Dubai Shopping Festival with great discounts and promotions.

In Dubai, the UAE Dirham (AED) is used. The exchange rate is usually stable against the US dollar: 1 dollar ≈ 3.67 dirhams. You can exchange currency at the airport, banks, exchange offices and shopping malls. I have noticed that exchange rates in the city are often more profitable than at the airport or hotels. ATMs are ubiquitous, and you can withdraw cash from international cards, but pay attention to the possible fees of your bank. Many places accept credit cards, but it is always useful to have some cash with you for small expenses, especially in markets or small cafes.

Dubai is a platform for those who are looking for adrenaline and unusual experiences. One of the most exciting adventures for me was the desert safari. Imagine: you are racing in an SUV over endless dunes, sand is flying up in fountains around, and your heart is beating in time with the roaring engine. After a crazy race, dinner was waiting for us in a Bedouin camp under the stars, with belly dancing and fragrant barbecue. Fans of heights can go on "skydiving" over the "Palm Jumeirah" — an artificial island in the shape of a palm tree. I still remember the feeling of free fall and the breathtaking view of the city and the sea merging on the horizon. Water activities are also impressive: from "kitesurfing" at Kite Beach to "diving" among coral reefs and sunken ships.

The best beaches in Dubai include: - Jumeirah Beach: A popular public beach overlooking Burj Al Arab. - La Mer Beach: A modern beach with entertainment areas and restaurants. - Kite Beach: Famous for its kitesurfing facilities. - Sunset Beach: An ideal place for evening walks and sunset photography.