Day 37. Dubai Stopover: Heat, Luxury, and Final Reflections

Our flight from Italy to Dubai took about six and a half hours. Just like our journey to Europe, we chose to break up the travel with another overnight stay rather than pushing through with a long-haul flight.

This time, we booked the Ramada by Wyndham Downtown Dubai, which is ideally located with a ten-minute walk from the Dubai Mall.

If you’ve ever been to Dubai, you know the heat—it simply never lets up. Even at 6:00 am, the thermometer was already hitting 35°C. We took a taxi straight to the hotel, knowing our room wouldn't be ready yet, but we wanted to drop our bags and head into the air-conditioned comfort of the Dubai Mall. It was the only way to survive the morning. 

Hotel Review: Ramada by Wyndham Downtown Dubai

We quickly realised that the hotel doesn't have air-conditioning in the foyer, no lounge to sit in, and no changing rooms for the pool. Despite the website making it look terrific. It was an older hotel that had seen many years of use. It may have once been a grand hotel, but it seriously needs a good renovation throughout the whole place. It was a letdown, though the room itself was brilliant and can't complain and so too were the staff. We should have stayed back over in the Dubai Creek Harbour area.

The Burj Khalifa putting on its nightly light show

Dubai Reflections: Luxury, Cleanliness, and Coffee Prices

The Dubai Mall really is a fantastic space and the ultimate way to stay cool. We actually contemplated walking from the hotel, but one look at the heat and we opted for the hotel shuttle instead!

One thing that stands out about Dubai is just how pristine it is—it’s the cleanest city I have ever seen. The hotel staff were incredibly polite and helpful; we truly couldn't fault the service. I was also surprised by how affordable the accommodation is here. However, they make it back on the food and drink! Be prepared for expensive treats: two coffees cost us about $20–$22 AUD. Eating out here feels like dining at a high-end restaurant every single time, regardless of where you go.

The heat and stillness makes for amazing night photos in Dubai

A Journey of Memories: From the Alpine Peaks to the History of Sicily

In 2024, our holiday through Italy and France with two great friends left us with incredible memories. This year, however, felt different. Rather than ticking off the 'big' tourist icons, we focused on exploring smaller cities, towns, and villages. It was a holiday of stunning contrasts—from the rolling countryside's, lakes, and mountains of France, Germany, Switzerland, and Austria, to the deep history and gritty culture of Sicily in the south. Every moment was well worth it. This is what holidays are all about: enjoying yourself and making lasting memories. Even with the mishaps and griping along the way, it’s all part of the fun, and this European trip certainly sits at the top of our list