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Five Things to Know Before Traveling to Dubai

Pay attention to the dos and don’ts when visiting this famous destination.

Snatched away from the desert and turned into a metropolis, Dubai is a marvel of human engineering. And it has been attracting tourists with its luxury resorts and impressive architecture for decades.

The fast-developing city is well-known for nightlife and shopping. However, as the UAE’s capital, Dubai has some strict rules that contrast the image of a lavish lifestyle. Their culture and social norms are different from western countries, so it’s best to know what to expect.

That’s why we’ve compiled this list of five things to know before traveling to Dubai. 

1. Entering the Country and Passing Customs

Citizens of most western countries can receive a 90-day visa on arrival. This makes coming to Dubai very straightforward. There are handy online resources to check the visa rules for your country, but there should generally be no trouble in that department. Unlike before, people who previously visited Kuwait or Israel will no longer have any problems entering the UAE.

Customs and immigration shouldn’t be tricky as well, as long as you act decently and appropriately answer the few questions they might ask. When it comes to things you can’t bring to the country, opiates and other dangerous materials aren’t allowed. Along with this, it’s illegal to bring gambling tools, red laser pointers, and candy cigarettes. You can only enter the UAE with weapons, alcohol, medications, and live animals if you get a special permit.

2. Don’t Act Carefree in the City

While the most popular images from Dubai are those of extravagant architecture and luxury, not all of the city’s like that. In fact, there are areas of Dubai that tourists should avoid if possible. Fortunately, it’s relatively easy to recognize the safe parts of the city – the areas with lots of tourist traffic that are better policed than others.

When it comes to overall crime rates, Dubai’s pretty safe. That means you won’t get robbed or attacked if you stay in the right neighborhoods. However, there’s still plenty of pickpockets around. Also, you shouldn’t leave your belongings unattended in public spaces. This especially goes for beaches. Tourists are prime targets for petty theft, so be mindful of that wherever in Dubai you are.

Visiting Dubai as a woman might be a bit trickier under certain circumstances. Ladies should mind their clothing style, making sure it isn’t too provocative. This is especially true when venturing further from the tourist hotspots. It’s also advisable for women to go in pairs or groups while on the street. Also, finding yourself in areas with heavy prostitution might become troublesome. 

Naturally, all of these limitations disappear in the confines of the luxury resorts.

3. Dubai Isn’t Only for the Extremely Wealthy

Luxurious resorts and hotels in Dubai are world-renowned. However, the city’s been opening up for visitors with a more moderate budget. Although there are slim chances to find any mind-blowing deals, there are reasonably priced options available. If you find vacancies, hostels might be the most budget-friendly way to go.

The taxis and other public transportation services are relatively cheap, as is the food. Naturally, there are plenty of premium restaurants with dizzying prices. But it’s really straightforward to find an excellent and affordable meal in Dubai.

4. Know What’s Allowed and What’s Not

As a Middle Eastern Muslim country, the UAE has some strict laws and social rules. Dubai, of course, shares them with the rest of the country. 

While the rules are not as severe as in some other Muslim countries, some might still come as a shock to a visiting westerner. Even worse, disregarding the lesser-known laws could get you fined or even jailed. 

Here are the essential laws to know in Dubai:

Drugs are illegal, and the penalty for either possession or being under their influence is jail time. Alcohol, on the other hand, is legal but within set boundaries. You can drink freely in a licensed venue, such as a club, restaurant, or hotel. Public drinking isn’t allowed, nor is drunk and disorderly conduct. You also won’t be able to buy alcohol outside of permitted establishments. That’s why as a possible deterrent measure, drinks in Dubai are notoriously expensive.

Public displays of affection are problematic in Dubai and can get you arrested. It’s hard to understand why holding hands during a walk or kissing in a cafe is offensive and prohibited. However, that’s the norm in the UAE, so it’s best to adhere to the law while visiting. PDA has the same status as prostitution in Dubai – it’s illegal but tolerated as long as it’s out of sight. Homosexuality is illegal in the UAE, even though laws on extramarital relations are now somewhat relaxed.

5. Adhere to the Local Norms of Decency

Another everyday activity that can get you in trouble in Dubai is the simple act of taking photographs. You can, of course, take a photo of the novelty architecture, but not the people. If you don’t have their permission, you’re not allowed to take a picture. Photographing women, the police, or the military can get you in big trouble fast.

Visible knees and shoulders are also prohibited in public. And whenever you leave the hotel or the beach, you must make sure to cover these offensive parts of human anatomy. The same goes for too tight or transparent clothes. Classical western bikinis are perfectly fine on the beach. The clothing restrictions aren’t reinforced by law, but it’s probably a good idea not to provoke the locals.

If you’re visiting Dubai, it would be wise to avoid Ramadan – the holy month of fasting in the Muslim world. During that time, their rules and prohibitions are even more strict. Everything we’ve mentioned so far is still not allowed, but you can add restrictions on public eating, drinking, and smoking to the list. Since Ramadan falls on the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, it’s tricky to calculate the exact dates. Luckily, you can find this information online and plan your visit accordingly.

Have a Great Vacation, but Stick by the Rules

If you observe all of the mentioned laws, regulations, and traditional customs, there’s nothing to worry about. You can have an exciting and memorable vacation in Dubai. 

Just make sure you’ll remember your trip for all the right reasons.

Best Hotels

10 Things You Didn’t Know You Could Do in NYC (Even Locals Miss These)

New York City

New York City is famous for iconic landmarks like Times Square, Broadway, and Central Park. But beneath its glittering surface, the city hides countless secrets—even most locals don’t know these exist. Ready to see a different side of NYC? Here are ten hidden gems to explore:

1. Whispering Gallery in Grand Central Terminal

In the bustling Grand Central Terminal lies an acoustic marvel. At the intersection near the Oyster Bar, whisper into one corner, and your voice magically travels clearly to someone standing at the opposite corner.

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2. Visit the Berlin Wall

Believe it or not, a piece of the Berlin Wall stands quietly on 53rd Street. Often unnoticed, it’s a profound reminder of history nestled right in Midtown.

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3. Secret Garden at Rockefeller Center

Hidden away atop Rockefeller Center is a stunning rooftop garden, an oasis of tranquility that offers breathtaking views—if you can find it.

4. Explore Roosevelt Island Tramway

Take an aerial tram for the cost of a subway fare and enjoy stunning skyline views on your way to Roosevelt Island, a peaceful escape from Manhattan’s hustle and bustle.

5. See a Tropical Rainforest in Queens

The Queens Botanical Garden houses an indoor tropical rainforest, complete with exotic flora and a year-round tropical climate—right in the heart of the city.

6. Walk Through NYC’s Smallest Park

Septuagesimo Uno, Manhattan’s tiniest park, is a hidden sliver of greenery tucked between buildings on the Upper West Side. Blink, and you’ll miss it.

7. Discover the Abandoned City Hall Subway Station

Though closed since 1945, you can glimpse the beautiful, ornate architecture of the abandoned City Hall station through a special subway tour, revealing a forgotten piece of NYC’s past.

8. Browse an Undercover Bookstore

Behind an inconspicuous brownstone door lies Albertine, a unique French bookstore filled with rare international literature and charming ambiance.

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9. Kayak for Free on the Hudson

Many visitors and locals don’t realize that you can kayak on the Hudson River completely free during warmer months, offering unbeatable skyline views.

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10. Visit an Authentic Himalayan Temple

The Jacques Marchais Museum of Tibetan Art on Staten Island transports you to the Himalayas without ever leaving NYC. Explore authentic Tibetan architecture, meditation gardens, and fascinating art collections.

Next time you’re in NYC, step beyond the usual tourist spots and discover these amazing hidden treasures. Who knows what else you’ll uncover?

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Arts & Culture

New Orleans Was Just Named the World’s Best Food City — Here’s Where to Eat First

new orleans

New Orleans recently earned the top spot on Time Out’s “Best Food Cities in the World 2025” list—outshining global hotspots from Bangkok to Cape Town. With 93% of locals rating it sky-high for restaurants and affordability, the Crescent City is officially a food lover’s paradise. Ready to explore the dishes that earned NOLA its crown? Here’s where to start:

1. Willie Mae’s Scotch House – Soulful Fried Chicken

This legendary Treme spot draws lines for its crusty, perfectly seasoned fried chicken and soulful white beans.

2. Commander’s Palace – Haute Creole Classics

A landmark for over a century, and a magnet for celebrities like Mick Jagger and Sandra Bullock. Here, elegant Creole dishes meet timeless Southern hospitality.

3. Dooky Chase’s Restaurant – Community & Culture

A civil-rights landmark and local favorite. Don’t miss their famed gumbo—it’s part of NOLA’s cultural heartbeat.

4. Dakar NOLA – Senegalese Gem

Named one of the 12 best new U.S. restaurants and James Beard Award–winning. It offers bold African flavors that add a global twist to the local scene.

5. Arnaud’s – Creole Tradition & History

Since 1918, Arnaud’s has defined Creole cuisine. Besides food, it houses a Mardi Gras museum—lesser-known but culturally rich.

6. Acamaya – Mariscos with a Mexican Flair

A newer hotspot on Dauphine Street specializing in Mexican seafood. Named a NYT “Top 50 U.S.” restaurant, it’s a must for adventurous eaters.

7. Café du Monde – Iconic Beignets & Chicory Coffee

You can’t talk NOLA food without beignets and café au lait. The powdered-sugar pastries at this legendary spot are a sugary introduction to the city.

8. Parkway Bakery & Tavern – Legendary Po’ Boys

Time Out ropes in Parkway for “if you only eat one thing…”—their roast-beef po’ boys are simple, iconic, and unforgettable.

9. Monday Bakery – Sweet Potato Beignets

TikTok star Keith Lee raves about them — “sweet potato beignets at Monday… he went back for another order.”

10. Hidden Courtyard Eats at Patula

A new addition praised by local critics: tucked away off the beaten path with atmospheric vibes and inventive dishes.

Why This Buzz Matters

– Local pride: 93% of New Orleanians rate it a top-tier food destination
– Global recognition: Top of Time Out’s worldwide list
– Celebrity appeal: Frequented by Beyoncé, Swift, Gordon Ramsay & more

Start with These Neighborhood Food Adventures

– Treme & French Quarter: Willie Mae’s, Parkway, Arnaud’s, Café du Monde
– Uptown & Magazine Street: Dakar NOLA, Acamaya, Monday Bakery
– Hidden Courtyard: Seek out Patula for something off-menu yet unforgettable.

New Orleans’s mix of tradition, innovation, and deep-rooted passion isn’t just a culinary scene—it’s a story you can taste. Now that it’s officially the world’s best, there’s no better time to plan your escape one bite at a time.

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Cancun

You Won’t Believe What $147 Gets You In Cancun – Unlimited Food, Drinks & 5 Nights

Cancun

Sound too good to be true? We thought so too. But it’s real. For just $147 total, you can stay 6 days and 5 nights in one of Mexico’s most iconic beachfront destinations—Cancun—with unlimited food, drinks, and sunshine included.

Thanks to a special offer from Booksi, this isn’t just a vacation—it’s a steal. Here’s what you get:

🌴 Stay at the The 5-Star Grand Cancun All Inclusive Resort

You’ll be living the beachfront dream at the stunning The 5-Star Grand Cancun All Inclusive Resort. Think white-sand beaches, infinity pools, ocean views, and luxe resort vibes. Rooms are spacious, elegant, and made for unwinding.

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🍽️ Unlimited Food + Drinks

That’s breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, and even top-shelf cocktails—all included. Dine at multiple on-site restaurants and sip tropical drinks by the pool without ever reaching for your wallet.

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🎉 All-Day, All-Night Entertainment

From pool parties and live music to salsa lessons and beach games, there’s always something happening. Want to just relax in a hammock by the sea? You can do that, too.

💵 Why Is It So Cheap?

Booksi negotiates insane rates with premium resorts. This is not a gimmick—it’s an exclusive, limited-time deal that travelers in the know are jumping on fast. At just $147 total for 5 nights, you’re paying less than the cost of a single nice dinner back home.

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🌊 Who’s This For?

·         Couples looking for an affordable romantic getaway

·         Best friends ready to escape the daily grind

·         Solo travelers craving beachfront peace with no stress

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🎯 Bottom Line

You can keep daydreaming about paradise, or you can actually go—for under $150. And this time, you don’t have to settle for less. Cancun is calling.

👉 Snag Your 5-Night All-Inclusive Cancun Stay for Just $147

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