Suez Canal Cruise EVENTYRET BEGYNNER HER
Roma (Civitavecchia) , Italia | Sicily (Messina) , Italy | Athens (Piraeus) , Greece | Santorini , Greece | Suez Canal (Passage) , Egypt | Suez Canal (Passage) , Egypt | Aqaba , Jordan | Muscat , Oman | Dubai , United Arab Emirates | Dubai , United Arab Emirates
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Roma (Civitavecchia), Italia
WHEN IN ROME
Den evige stad byr på endeløse eventyr. Nipp til en Cappuccino på en utendørs kafé og se byen våkne til live. Opplev antikken i det nasjonale Romamuseet og italienske mesterverk i Villa Borghese. Eller lær om romernes forfedre ved det nasjonale etruskiske museet.
Den evige stad byr på endeløse eventyr. Nipp til en Cappuccino på en utendørs kafé og se byen våkne til live. Opplev antikken i det nasjonale Romamuseet og italienske mesterverk i Villa Borghese. Eller lær om romernes forfedre ved det nasjonale etruskiske museet.
i Roma (Civitavecchia)
URGAMMELT OG FANTASTISK
Spaser gjennom hjertet av det gamle Roma. Start på Colosseum, den enorme arenaen hvor gladiatorene en gang kjempet. Deretter kan du vandre mellom romerske ruiner, forbi smuldrende templer og basilikaer. Se hvor keiserne bodde på Palatinerhøyden og nyt utsikten over det 2000 år gamle, velbevarte Pantheon.
EVENTYR OVERALT
Streif rundt på Romas piazzaer, hver med sitt eget perspektiv. Spis ute på Piazza Navona og bestig Spansketrappen på Piazza di Spagna. Rusle i brosteinsbelagte smug i travle Trastevere og få med deg handelen i bodene på Campo de Fiori. Glem ikke å kaste en mynt i Trevi-fontenen for godt hell.
HELLIGE ROM
Utforsk vatikanmuseets ekstraordinære samling av billedtepper og klassiske statuer. Gå inn i det sixtinske kapell og bli overveldet av Michelangelos freskomalerier. Deretter kan du entre Peterskirken, en av verdens største kirker, og stå under dens enorme, fantastiske kuppel.
LOKALT KJØKKEN
Romerne lever for å spise, enten det er med familien eller på en fortauskafe For en autentisk smak av det romerske kjøkken, prøv Carciofi alla Romana (stekte artisjokker) eller spaghetti alla carbonara. Nyt en panino (fylt sandwich) eller tynnbunnet romersk pizza. Tilfredsstill søtbehovet med en kule gelato. Deretter kan du avslutte natten med et glass hvitvin fra den omkringliggende Lazio-regionen.
SHOPPING
Byens mange gateboder er det beste alternativet for suvenirer. Via Condotti tilbyr en rekke italienske Couture-designere. Se kunststudioene langs Via Margutta, eller alternative håndverksselgere i Monti-nabolaget. Porta Portese er byens største loppemarked – og La Rinascente, det første varehuset.
INSIDER TIP
Togturen mellom Civitavecchia og Roma tar omtrent 80 minutter hver vei.
Sicily (Messina), Italy
BOOTS OFF
Messina is the coastal jewel of northern Sicily. Let yourself get a little lost in the city, as you wander the streets taking note the of the history embedded in its architecture. See the famous Messina Cathedral — its dome has stood since 1551. Stroll among neoclassical and Art Nouveau sculptures at the Camposanto. And check out the Church of the Santissima Annunziata dei Catalani, a 12th-century church that offers a unique example of Norman architecture, blending Arab, Byzantine and Roman elements.
Messina is the coastal jewel of northern Sicily. Let yourself get a little lost in the city, as you wander the streets taking note the of the history embedded in its architecture. See the famous Messina Cathedral — its dome has stood since 1551. Stroll among neoclassical and Art Nouveau sculptures at the Camposanto. And check out the Church of the Santissima Annunziata dei Catalani, a 12th-century church that offers a unique example of Norman architecture, blending Arab, Byzantine and Roman elements.
in Sicily (Messina)
Photographer's Playground
Messina's panoramic views and patchwork of architectural styles are an invitation for the creative photographer. The Neptune and Orione fountains created by Michelangelo's collaborator, Montorsoli are renaissance masterpieces.
Dawn of the Duomo
Head to the Astronomical Clock at noon to catch the tower's daily spectacle, starring its bronze statue carousel. The 12th-century Santissima Annunziata Church, Gothic-style Messina Cathedral and the 19th-century Galleria V. Emanuele III span through centuries of architectural diversity.
A Piazza With a View
Once you reach the Sacrario di Cristo Re, you'll discover a panoramic view of the strait and most of Messina. Visit the beautiful temple and the tomb of the unknown soldier during your Sicily cruise. Afterward, walk back down to Piazza Cairoli to Viale San Martino where you can enjoy a refreshing granita, a sorbet-like Sicilian treat.
Local Cuisine
The cuisine here is one of the most antique in Sicily, with influences from Greek and Arabic cultures. Try Messina specialty la ghiotta di pesce stocco, filets of cod or swordfish baked in tomato sauce with potatoes, capers and herbs. Sample Sicilian bucatini, which combines pasta with local sardines and North African-inspired flavors like saffron, pine nuts and raisins. Or hit up the street vendors for arancini, the cheesy balls of fried rice that are the ultimate Sicilian comfort food.
Shopping
Shop in local markets for the typical products, such as cheese, figs and marzipan. Visit the Galleria V. Emanuele — the world's oldest active shopping mall, dating back to the 1800s — for artisanal crafts such as coral jewelry, hand-painted glazed ceramics and fine crocheted items. Stop in the small shops off the main roads to see artisans at work during your Sicily cruise.
INSIDER TIP
Messina is a great place to discover by foot; within 10 minutes you can be at the Cathedral.
CRUISING
FAVORITTER
Ting å gjøre
A BOLDER BOULDER
Rise to the occasion and take on the signature Rock Climbing Wall. From beginners to speed climbers, everyone can enjoy an unparalleled view from 40 feet above deck. Included in your fare, no reservation required.
ON PAR FOR ADVENTURE
Hit the links on the high seas! Refine your mini-golf game on a green that overlooks a sea of blue. Included in your fare, no reservation required.
Athens (Piraeus), Greece
ACROPOLIS NOW
Explore the harbors of Piraeus, which showcase the Golden Age of Greek history. Visit the Hellenic Maritime Museum and the ship sheds — here, you can see how ancient ships were crafted. In the charming Castella district, you'll find some small, quaint shops and cafes amid the elegant neoclassical buildings. Head to Sotiros Street to find brand name stores, alongside smaller local shops.
Explore the harbors of Piraeus, which showcase the Golden Age of Greek history. Visit the Hellenic Maritime Museum and the ship sheds — here, you can see how ancient ships were crafted. In the charming Castella district, you'll find some small, quaint shops and cafes amid the elegant neoclassical buildings. Head to Sotiros Street to find brand name stores, alongside smaller local shops.
in Athens (Piraeus)
Take Me to Church
The Agia Triada is one of the finest examples of Byzantine-style churches in Greece. The Church of St. Nicholas, which overlooks the port, has a magnificent interior filled with orthodox icons, frescoes and sculptures.
Mediterranean Romance
Part of the Castella district, Mikrolimano is the smallest and most picturesque port of Athens, making it perfect for a romantic afternoon. Take a leisurely stroll along the promenade to take in the amazing views, then settle in a cafe or taverna for some fresh seafood or a refreshing drink with your cruise to Athens.
Boats and the Bronze Age
The Naval Museum has exhibits that present ship building from ancient times to the present day. You will be fascinated by the Neosoikoi, the archaeological remains of the ship sheds where local craftsmen maintained and repaired the boats. Art lovers will have plenty to see at the Piraeus Archaeological Museum, from Bronze Age sculptures to classical Hellenistic pottery.
Local Cuisine
Try the local dishes prepared with sun-ripened tomatoes, eggplant, bell peppers and fresh seafood like mussels and grilled octopus. Look for trovolia, a typical fresh cheese to savor with marinated olives. Ask for recommendations on local wines — the most common white is lively, floral and aromatic Moschofilero, while the red of choice is Xinomavro, an indigenous grape with a bold, complex flavor.
Shopping
You may want to bring back home some of the typical liquors such as the anise-flavored Ouzo or the strong Tsipouro. Greek olives, spices and capers can be vacuumed-packed, making for convenient souvenirs. Look for locally made leather sandals, pottery and hand-painted ceramics. You'll find most shops in the Psyri district, not far from the Acropolis during your Athens cruise.
INSIDER TIP
The yellow trolley bus (number 20) will take you from the port to Passalimani, going through Castella and ending at the Metro station.
Santorini, Greece
BEAUTY
Santorini is one of the world’s most popular islands, where adventure bubbles above the Aegean Sea in breathtaking ways. Take a cable car to see Fira’s old cathedrals and enthralling museums. Swim in deep blue waters that lap black pebbled beaches. And peel back layers of history in excavated Akrotiri— all while relishing the dramatic scenery of this Cyclades isle.
Santorini is one of the world’s most popular islands, where adventure bubbles above the Aegean Sea in breathtaking ways. Take a cable car to see Fira’s old cathedrals and enthralling museums. Swim in deep blue waters that lap black pebbled beaches. And peel back layers of history in excavated Akrotiri— all while relishing the dramatic scenery of this Cyclades isle.
in Santorini
VOLCANIC WONDERS
Explore the volcanic history and geology of Santorini, site of an immense eruption 3,500 years ago. Trek the rocky landscape of Nea Kameni, an island in the center of the Santorini caldera, to see its smoking craters. Then soak in the soothing hot springs of Palea Kameni.
IT TAKES A VILLAGE
Considered the island’s most picturesque village, Oia radiates authentic Cyclades charm. Meander along tiny paths squeezed between stark-white villas. Snap selfies with the blue-domed St. Gerasimos Church, and view Byzantine castle ruins. Or dine on Greek seafood in a waterfront taverna— also the perfect perch for watching Oia’s fabulous sunsets.
THE GLASS HALF FULL
Indulge your taste buds in a delectable tasting journey among the island’s traditional wine cellars. Vineyards dapple Santorini’s countryside, and many are among some of Europe’s oldest. White Assyrtiko and red Mantilaria are both popular varietals— and be sure to sample Santorini’s beloved dessert wine, Vinsanto.
LOCAL CUISINE
Thanks to Santorini’s rich volcanic soil, the island has a solid reputation for producing fantastic wines and vegetables— fresh cherry tomatoes, fava beans and white eggplant included. Try egg-based sfougato and fried tomatokeftedes fritters, two Santorini specialties. Pick up melitinia cookies from a local bakery. And for an after-dinner drink, sip unsweetened, anise-flavored raki.
SHOPPING
Ypapantis Street in Fira is known for its dozens of jewelry stores selling pieces inspired by ancient Greek and Byzantine designs. You’ll find local artwork in the galleries of Oia and books about the Cyclades in Atlantis Books. A bottle of Santorini wine or Canava ouzo makes for a tasty souvenir.
INSIDER TIP
Wear hiking boots or comfortable sneakers and plenty of sunscreen when hiking the caldera.
Suez Canal (Passage), Egypt
CONTINENTS
Admire the views as you journey down the 193 kilometer Suez Canal, the remarkable achievement of Egypt's belle epoque. On one side of the shore, you'll see Africa and on the other side Asia. See the historic buildings of Port Said at the Mediterranean Sea. Admire the view of the Suez Canal House, with its white facade and striking green domes, built for the 1869 inauguration.
Admire the views as you journey down the 193 kilometer Suez Canal, the remarkable achievement of Egypt's belle epoque. On one side of the shore, you'll see Africa and on the other side Asia. See the historic buildings of Port Said at the Mediterranean Sea. Admire the view of the Suez Canal House, with its white facade and striking green domes, built for the 1869 inauguration.
in Suez Canal (Passage)
Landmark Lighthouse
See Port Said waterfront's quarter with its 19th-century villas. Fascinating historical buildings include the Lighthouse, an octagonal-shaped, 56-meter-high tower that was completed one week before the inauguration of the canal. It's also the first building in the world created with reinforced concrete and the longest-standing construction in the city.
From Coptic to Colonial
As you pass by Ismailia, you'll see Lake Timsah — one of the main lakes of the historic Nile Delta, the cradle of ancient Egyptian civilization. Spot the Coptic Church of Ismailia with its cross-topped domes. Look for colonial-era buildings like De Lessep's House, the impeccably maintained former residence of the French consul to Egypt.
Bridge Over Suez
Near the city of Suez, you'll pass by the Suez Canal Bridge with your Egypt cruise, also called the Mubarak Peace Bridge or simply El-Qantara ("The Bridge"). Note the bridge's two massive pylons on either side of the canal — one is in Asia, while the other is in Africa. Asia, while the other is in Africa.
INSIDER TIP
In places of worship of any denomination here, it's expected to cover your arms and legs.
Suez Canal (Passage), Egypt
CONTINENTS
Admire the views as you journey down the 193 kilometer Suez Canal, the remarkable achievement of Egypt's belle epoque. On one side of the shore, you'll see Africa and on the other side Asia. See the historic buildings of Port Said at the Mediterranean Sea. Admire the view of the Suez Canal House, with its white facade and striking green domes, built for the 1869 inauguration.
Admire the views as you journey down the 193 kilometer Suez Canal, the remarkable achievement of Egypt's belle epoque. On one side of the shore, you'll see Africa and on the other side Asia. See the historic buildings of Port Said at the Mediterranean Sea. Admire the view of the Suez Canal House, with its white facade and striking green domes, built for the 1869 inauguration.
in Suez Canal (Passage)
Landmark Lighthouse
See Port Said waterfront's quarter with its 19th-century villas. Fascinating historical buildings include the Lighthouse, an octagonal-shaped, 56-meter-high tower that was completed one week before the inauguration of the canal. It's also the first building in the world created with reinforced concrete and the longest-standing construction in the city.
From Coptic to Colonial
As you pass by Ismailia, you'll see Lake Timsah — one of the main lakes of the historic Nile Delta, the cradle of ancient Egyptian civilization. Spot the Coptic Church of Ismailia with its cross-topped domes. Look for colonial-era buildings like De Lessep's House, the impeccably maintained former residence of the French consul to Egypt.
Bridge Over Suez
Near the city of Suez, you'll pass by the Suez Canal Bridge with your Egypt cruise, also called the Mubarak Peace Bridge or simply El-Qantara ("The Bridge"). Note the bridge's two massive pylons on either side of the canal — one is in Asia, while the other is in Africa. Asia, while the other is in Africa.
INSIDER TIP
In places of worship of any denomination here, it's expected to cover your arms and legs.
Aqaba, Jordan
A DESERT OASIS
The Red Sea's clear waters, pleasant temperatures and abundant sea life make this town with its rose-colored mountain backdrop an ideal location for snorkeling year-round — head to Al-Ghandour Beach, or try Palm Beach a few kilometers from downtown for a quieter experience. Then, dive deeper into the area's history: See the fortifications of Mamuk Castle and the Bronze Age artifacts of the Aqaba Archaeological Museum.
The Red Sea's clear waters, pleasant temperatures and abundant sea life make this town with its rose-colored mountain backdrop an ideal location for snorkeling year-round — head to Al-Ghandour Beach, or try Palm Beach a few kilometers from downtown for a quieter experience. Then, dive deeper into the area's history: See the fortifications of Mamuk Castle and the Bronze Age artifacts of the Aqaba Archaeological Museum.
in Aqaba
Underwater Adventures
Explore the world under the sea at the Aqaba Marine Park. Instead of snorkeling or diving, you can also take a trip on the Red Sea in a glass-bottomed boat. Or visit the Aqaba Aquarium, where you'll be introduced to the wide variety of colorful local fish and corals.
Red Sea Relaxation
Head to Berenice Beach Club, where you wade in the clear waters of the Red Sea or relax in a sunbed. Or opt for the free beach at Al-Hafayer, or Palm Beach: Stroll along the tree-lined boulevard that runs along the shoreline, or join in the local tradition of beach time with tea or coffee.
Local Cuisine
While you're here, be sure to sample Aqaba's signature dish sayadieh, a delicately spiced fish, served with rice with onion and tahini sauce. Cruise to Aqaba to try falafel in its place of origin — some say Jordan is the best spot in the world for savoring these fried chickpea fritters, spiced with cumin and garlic and brightened up with parsley. Finish with tea flavored with sage or mint, or opt for Turkish coffee, a slightly sweeter alternative to espresso.
Shopping
Some of the best shopping in Aqaba is in the souq, the market in the older part of town. Head here for Dead Sea products, handmade clothing, jewelry, carpets, pottery, glassware, nuts and spices — pick up a glass bottle filled with designs made in sand, a signature Jordanian trinket. Aqaba's special economic status also makes it a good place to pick up duty-free goods during your Jordan cruise.
INSIDER TIP
There are dozens of banks and ATMs around the city where you can get Jordanian Dinar (JD).
CRUISING
FOR MATELSKERE
Ting å gjøre
A FAR EAST FEAST
Say “Konnichiwa” to a reimagined favorite. Sushi, sashimi and more, all made-to-order with intense flavors, the best ingredients and impeccable presentation.
A CUT ABOVE THE REST
For more than a decade, the chefs of Chops Grille have proudly presented quality, hand-cut prime steaks at this hallmark Royal Caribbean restaurant.
CRUISING
SOLRIKE DAGER
Ting å gjøre
SWIM IT TO WIN IT
Soak up the sun or savor the shade on expanded pool decks, with complimentary loungers, live music, and the opportunity to enjoy a frosty cocktail.
SUN AND SERENITY
Slip away to this adults-only indoor and outdoor retreat. The Solarium is your slice of paradise, with soothing whirlpools, warm sunshine and a refreshing water mist.
CRUISING
FANTASTISKE SHOW
Ting å gjøre
LYRICAL LAYOVER
Savor every note as you travel from the Big Apple across the pond in West End to Broadway, a cross-continental celebration of music theater production.
ENTRANCED BY DANCE
Escape to the most ethereal cities of the world— both real and imaginary— in a show that will hypnotize your senses.
CRUISING
NATTELIV
Ting å gjøre
UNCORK A VINTAGE ADVENTURE
Whether you favor a bold Cab or the subtle nuance of Pinot Noir, Vintages has the perfect glass. From France to California, Chardonnay to Shiraz, the wide world of wine is well represented through extensive partnerships with top winemakers. This is the perfect setting for indulging your passion for wine, or igniting it. Vintages also offers a small bites menu.
SUN, SERENITY & SIPS
Does sitting in the whirlpool make you thirsty? Grab a drink at the nearby Solarium Bar.
CRUISING
FAVORITTER
Ting å gjøre
A BOLDER BOULDER
Rise to the occasion and take on the signature Rock Climbing Wall. From beginners to speed climbers, everyone can enjoy an unparalleled view from 40 feet above deck. Included in your fare, no reservation required.
ON PAR FOR ADVENTURE
Hit the links on the high seas! Refine your mini-golf game on a green that overlooks a sea of blue. Included in your fare, no reservation required.
CRUISING
FOR MATELSKERE
Ting å gjøre
A FAR EAST FEAST
Say “Konnichiwa” to a reimagined favorite. Sushi, sashimi and more, all made-to-order with intense flavors, the best ingredients and impeccable presentation.
A CUT ABOVE THE REST
For more than a decade, the chefs of Chops Grille have proudly presented quality, hand-cut prime steaks at this hallmark Royal Caribbean restaurant.
Muscat, Oman
SULTAN
Explore this fairy-tale town of medieval Middle East heritage by foot. Get lost in the dazzling Mutrah Souq, a colorful labyrinth with ceramics, jewelry and spices. See the Portuguese forts of Al Mirani and Al Jalali on the sand-colored hillsides. Explore the massive Grand Mosque, and admire the city's many other architecture landmarks, such as the Royal Opera House, a blend of Omani and Italian-imported marble.
Explore this fairy-tale town of medieval Middle East heritage by foot. Get lost in the dazzling Mutrah Souq, a colorful labyrinth with ceramics, jewelry and spices. See the Portuguese forts of Al Mirani and Al Jalali on the sand-colored hillsides. Explore the massive Grand Mosque, and admire the city's many other architecture landmarks, such as the Royal Opera House, a blend of Omani and Italian-imported marble.
in Muscat
Portuguese Past
The Portuguese occupiers built the impressive Al Jalali and Al Mirani Fort in the 16th century. Although they're closed to the public, they're a stunning backdrop for stroll along the harbor. The forts are on both sides high on the cliffs guarding the city's entrance.
Play Sultan
Visit the Grand Mosque (open in the morning), a gift to the nation from Sultan Qaboos and a mix of Omani, Islamic and modern architecture. It can accommodate 20,000 worshippers and has a rich prayer hall, an elaborate chandelier and a huge Persian carpet that took four years to weave.
Picturesque Heritage
Learn more about Oman's past in the elegant New National Museum in Old Muscat. Browse the beautifully presented archaeological artifacts, manuscripts and ship models during your Muscat cruise. When you're done, snap a photo of the Al Alam Palace with its blue and gold pillars opposite the museum.
Local Cuisine
The traditional dish of Oman is majboos (also called kabsa), basmati rice with spicy beef, chicken or fish — typically local-caught lobster, mackerel or red snapper — served with yogurt sauce. Perk up with a cup of kahwa, the local coffee mixed with cardamom powder, served alongside dates and sweets after a meal.
Shopping
Head to Mutrah Souq, Muscat's oldest market and one of the most characterful souqs in the region. Cruise to Muscat and browse a variety of goods and souvenirs like frankincense, perfumes, gold and silver jewelry, Omani hats and ornate decorative lamps with traditional geometric patterns. You can also shop in The Avenues or one of the other big modern malls for more modern retail therapy.
INSIDER TIP
Muscat's non-airport taxis are orange and white and don't have meters. Agree on the rate before you get in.
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
IN THE DESERT
Start your adventure near Dubai Creek: Explore the sand-colored architecture and winding alleyways of the Al Fahidi historical district, and see the nearby market. Enjoy tea in the sail-shaped Burj Al Arab hotel, one of Dubai's most famous landmarks. Or head to Palm Jumeirah, the famous artificial palm-shaped islands, where you can take the monorail to the Atlantis Hotel.
Start your adventure near Dubai Creek: Explore the sand-colored architecture and winding alleyways of the Al Fahidi historical district, and see the nearby market. Enjoy tea in the sail-shaped Burj Al Arab hotel, one of Dubai's most famous landmarks. Or head to Palm Jumeirah, the famous artificial palm-shaped islands, where you can take the monorail to the Atlantis Hotel.
in Dubai
Old Ways Still Alive
Stroll around the nicely restored Al Fahidi Historical District, where you can get an impression of life in this emirate before oil was discovered in the 1960s. Explore the narrow walking lanes with their sand-colored houses, cafes and galleries. Then visit Dubai Museum, built in 1787 and the oldest existing building in Dubai.
On Top of the World
Stand on the Burj Khalifa for breathtaking views of this extraordinary city. At 828 meters, this narrow tower is the world's tallest so far. It has an observation deck on the 124th and the 148th floor, and a restaurant-bar on the 122nd. Book tickets well in advance.
Maze of Modern Life
Head to Madinat Jumeirah, one of Dubai's most attractive developments. With your Dubai cruise, stroll along the desert-colored villas and hotels, alongside waterways with palms, banana trees and bougainvillea. Sit down in one of the trendy local cafes for a refreshing fruit juice. At the heart of this modern village lies Souq Madinat Jumeirah, a maze-like bazaar with shops lining wood-framed walkways.
Local Cuisine
You'll be able to find food from anywhere around the globe here — but focus on the local fare for the most authentic experience with Dubai cruises. While you're out on the town, pick up a shawarma, shaved strips of spicy spit-roasted meat served in pita bread. Try manousheh, a flatbread topped with local Akkawi cheese and za'atar herbs. Slate your sweet tooth with luqaimat, fried dough balls spiced with saffron and cardamom.
Shopping
Pick one of the large number of malls in this shopping Mecca. There's Dubai Mall, the world's largest shopping center, as well as the Mall of Emirates. For a more traditional experience, browse the colorful souqs in Bur Dubai and Deira for Persian carpets, Arabic coffee pots and other trinkets.
INSIDER TIP
Don't underestimate the heat — try to avoid being outdoors for long periods during the day. The malls are a great indoor foray.
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
IN THE DESERT
Less than 10 percent of Dubai's population are original Emiratis (the majority are South Asian expats). To meet locals and taste local home-cooked food, join the Cultural Breakfast at the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding. Before you leave, pop into a mall — also a welcome escape from the heat. You can seek out some world-class bargains or indulge in some ultra-luxurious retail therapy.
Less than 10 percent of Dubai's population are original Emiratis (the majority are South Asian expats). To meet locals and taste local home-cooked food, join the Cultural Breakfast at the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding. Before you leave, pop into a mall — also a welcome escape from the heat. You can seek out some world-class bargains or indulge in some ultra-luxurious retail therapy.
in Dubai
Old Ways Still Alive
Stroll around the nicely restored Al Fahidi Historical District, where you can get an impression of life in this emirate before oil was discovered in the 1960s. Explore the narrow walking lanes with their sand-colored houses, cafes and galleries. Then visit Dubai Museum, built in 1787 and the oldest existing building in Dubai.
On Top of the World
Stand on the Burj Khalifa for breathtaking views of this extraordinary city. At 828 meters, this narrow tower is the world's tallest so far. It has an observation deck on the 124th and the 148th floor, and a restaurant-bar on the 122nd. Book tickets well in advance.
Maze of Modern Life
Head to Madinat Jumeirah, one of Dubai's most attractive developments. With your Dubai cruise, stroll along the desert-colored villas and hotels, alongside waterways with palms, banana trees and bougainvillea. Sit down in one of the trendy local cafes for a refreshing fruit juice. At the heart of this modern village lies Souq Madinat Jumeirah, a maze-like bazaar with shops lining wood-framed walkways.
Local Cuisine
You'll be able to find food from anywhere around the globe here — but focus on the local fare for the most authentic experience with Dubai cruises. While you're out on the town, pick up a shawarma, shaved strips of spicy spit-roasted meat served in pita bread. Try manousheh, a flatbread topped with local Akkawi cheese and za'atar herbs. Slate your sweet tooth with luqaimat, fried dough balls spiced with saffron and cardamom.
Shopping
Pick one of the large number of malls in this shopping Mecca. There's Dubai Mall, the world's largest shopping center, as well as the Mall of Emirates. For a more traditional experience, browse the colorful souqs in Bur Dubai and Deira for Persian carpets, Arabic coffee pots and other trinkets.
© 2019 Royal Caribbean International
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INSIDER TIP