Dubai: A Magical Land

Travel is not just about places—it is about the people and memories we create.

My love for travel began in childhood on long road trips in our old Ambassador car or Matador van. Those month-long journeys sowed the seeds of my passion. That passion led me to study tourism management and build a career exploring the world with families, students, senior citizens, and corporate groups. My most recent trip, however, was different—this time with school friends. We chose Dubai, and it was all fun, laughter, and nostalgia. It reminded me that travel is not only about places but also about the people and memories we create.

When I travel, I feel like a different person—confident, energised, and content. Whenever something troubles me, I reflect on my thoughts and often find the answer lies in escaping to a calm, serene place.

As first-time travellers, the ladies were thrilled and felt more comfortable with me accompanying them. Sameer designed a wonderful itinerary and arranged a hotel near the Meena Bazaar area, taking care of all bookings, visas, and tickets.

On our first day, everyone was eager to explore Dubai. For many, it was their very first international trip. I understood their excitement, having visited the city several times before in different seasons and with various groups.

That day, a light shower left the weather pleasantly cool. We began with the Museum of the Future, a stunning landmark in the heart of Dubai. One section moved us deeply, showcasing plants, animals, and a futuristic world that highlighted the need to care for Mother Earth.

In the evening, we dressed up for a dinner cruise at Marina Bay and were lucky to witness a rare drone show. Hundreds of drones formed dazzling shapes, shifting colours every second. The spectacle was breathtaking, and the joy of sharing it together was unforgettable.

The Women Who Inspired Me!

Traveling with these ladies was a beautiful experience, each carrying her own inspiring story.

Anju, a bank employee, had saved every rupee to enjoy this trip independently. Sharmila, a tutor, had found joy again after losing her husband. Mahi, from a small town, finally realised her dream of travelling with school friends in her fifties. Sayli patiently turned each of her dreams into reality, and Ragini, despite losing her father, remained positive and financially independent. Hearing their stories, I realised how courage and grace carry women through life’s trials. We promised this would be the first of many yearly journeys together.

We explored Dubai’s lively markets and the old fort in a van before a short city tour, visiting luxury hotels and the beach. Viewing Dubai from the 125th floor of Burj Khalifa was thrilling; the city stretched below us like a sparkling canvas.

The desert safari was the highlight. Riding a Land Cruiser over golden dunes, we screamed, laughed, and savoured every wild moment. At sunset, we climbed a dune, watched the glowing horizon, and silently gave thanks for life and friendship—a moment of pure magic.

The next day began with a delicious breakfast before visiting the Miracle Garden, a paradise of countless flowers forming intricate sculptures of planes, villas, bridges, and fountains. Later, at Global Village, we explored pavilions from around the world and enjoyed Thai sticky rice with mango—a simple joy I treasure despite having visited Thailand 22 times. We walked for hours, enjoying every cultural display, before retiring, exhausted but happy.

Another day was dedicated to spirituality. We visited the newly built Swaminarayan Temple in Abu Dhabi, a masterpiece inaugurated by our Honourable Prime Minister. The carvings, sculptures, and pillars were exquisite, each telling a story from Indian tradition. Few visitors are aware of a second level beneath the main temple, equally divine and serene. We were blessed with ‘prasad' before continuing our journey. Next, we visited the majestic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, whose white pillars, blue domes, vast prayer halls, and sparkling chandeliers left us spellbound. By evening, we returned to Dubai, hearts full of peace.

On our last day, it was difficult to say goodbye. We spent the morning shopping for fresh dates, dried fruits, and souvenirs. A special moment for us was when we visited the Burj Khalifa on Makar Sankranti – a day when, in Maharashtra, we share sweets and say, 'Take this sweet and speak sweetly.' Celebrating this tradition at the world’s tallest building felt surreal. At the airport, we carried gifts in our bags and memories in our hearts, promising that this was only the beginning of many adventures.

This tour reminded me that travel is more than sightseeing. It brings confidence, freedom, and wisdom; it teaches us to appreciate diversity, bond deeply, and celebrate life. I encourage every woman—and every person—to step out, explore, and let travel transform you. Little dreams can become extraordinary experiences.

(The writer is a tourism professional and runs a company, Global Voyages. Views personal.)