I was stuck in Dubai having missed my flight out to Madrid, Spain. But it was on an Emirates flight and they take pretty good care of their passengers. Madrid, Madrid called an Emirates employee at the gate which we were disgorged from. Sorry folks he said, you have missed your flight but don't worry, we will give you a temporary visa and you can spend the night in comfort in a hotel and catch your flight the next morning.

The evening stretched before me and as we went to take the lift a couple of perky young things came up and enticed us to go for a Dubai City Tour. Thrusting brochures into our hands they said, why dont you do it?? The price per person is $ 60 US and we will reduce it to 50$ for you Emirates passengers.

The Sun Tours are unique said said a smiling young guy and all our staff are specially trained and take care of all our guests. The best part was there are multilingual drivers who take you around.

While we drove out we noticed that Dubai seemed fascinating with modern buildings towering over historical monuments and traditional dwellings. The beginning of the route took us to the Jumeirah Beach Hotel and the Burj Al Arab an award winning hotel that combines amazing architecture with the rich culture of the middle east.

We were also taken to see the outside of the Jumeirah Mosque, possibly one of the most photogrpahed buildings in Dubai; beautiful by day or by night.
Then onwards we were taken to Bastakia to view some of the oldest buildings in Dubai with their traditional wind towers which the guide told us was one of the earliest forms of air-conditioning.

Then they took us to the gold souk where the glitter of gold was overwhelming! What a dazzling array with everything from traditional jewelry to modern Italian designs. Wow! for me an Indian it was quite dazzling as we are jackdaws by nature! But we were told that the airport souk is duty free so dont bother to buy here.

The Spice Souk was another feast for the senses. Spices from around the world were piled high and was being sold like it has been for hundreds of years. Look out for traditional gift items to take home for the family and relatives. Wander around the old winding lanes of Old Dubai and enjoy the sights and sounds of history that is unique.

You should not miss visiting the 217 year old Al Fahidi Fort in Bur Dubai, the home of the Dubai Museum where one can experience Dubais history as a trading and diving centre.

And as a final hurrah journey across the creek by 'Abra' a local water taxi and view the magnificent architectural splendour of modern Dubai.