November 22, 2011
Today was our last day in Dubai and our last day on the ship. Â We disembarked from the ship and checked into our hotel Raffles Dubai which we booked for half the day. Â We only needed the room to freshen up before flying home for 12 hours. Â Unfortunately, it was hazy out so some of my pictures aren’t clear.
We jumped into a cab and decided to see as much of the city as we possibly could.  The first place we visited was the fabulous Burj Khalifa.  It is the tallest building in the world with the fastest elevator.  We went up to the 122nd floor which was the lounge called Atmosphere.  We had breathtaking views of the city.  We saw the construction of the Palm Islands and The World.  This lounge was expensive for lunch, but everything in Dubai is pricey. We then decided to go to the Dubai Mall of the Emirates, one of the largest shopping malls in the world
In the mall, they have an indoor ski resort called Ski Dubai where John and I did a few runs.  It wasn’t big, but it was the only indoor ski resort we’ve ever seen. After doing a little bit of shopping, we went back to our hotel so that we can get ready for dinner in the Burj Al Arab (Sail Hotel).  The only way you can get into that hotel is if you are staying there or if you have reservations for the restaurant.
The Burj Al Arab is a beautiful hotel with vibrant colors. We knew these two women who were staying there, so we got a sneak peek into their suite and boy was it gorgeous. Â Each suite has two floors with a beautiful staircase. Â After getting a tour of the room, we went to dinner at Al Mahara. Â The restaurant is basically a giant fish tank it, and anywhere you sit you have a great view of it.
From the menu to the stemware and the silverware everything was top notch. Â The food was delicious as well. Â After a very expensive dinner, we got a ride back to our hotel so that we can finish packing and get ready to go home. Â After a great 18 day cruise, it will be tough to go back home to reality.
