Travel

Farewell Charlotte. Next stop, Dubai. Actually in this case, it was Boston, but you get the drift.

First Class on Emirate Airlines include these fully reclining seats with privacy shields. You essentially have a little semi-private pod for the long trip. Unfortunately, we're just passing through to the economy cabin.

This is economy class which is an upgrade from U.S. airlines. More head room, leg room and wider seats make for a more comfortable flight.

Everything you need to fly across the Atlantic including a complimentary toiletry bag with a toothbrush and toothpaste, eye mask and socks.

The seat backs have electrical outlets in addition to the monitors to keep your devices "juiced" during the trip. How come Delta hasn't thought of this?

Handy stickers to post on your seat and guide the flight attendants. They were awesome by the way. Hot towels at the beginning and end of the flight did wonders to freshen you up.

Breakfast menu. The meals came with actual silverware emblazoned with the Emirate Airline logo. It's the little things...

Note the complimentary wine, beer, and spirits with dinner. We didn't partake, but it's drastically different from domestic airlines which are on the verge of charging us to use the bathroom.

One of the cool features on Emirates airlines was the "air show" feature. The plane has cameras mounted on the front, belly and tail of the aircraft. From your seat monitor, you can tune into the various cameras and enjoy the view. This is the touch down into Dubai.

Like most things in Dubai. The airport was a gleaming marvel of polished chrome, gold, glass, granite and marble. It feels like a luxury mall or a Vegas casino minus the gaming tables. Despite it's impressive stature, the Emiratis aren't satisfied with this showpiece of an airport. Plans to construct a bigger and better airport will soon make this one an after thought.

This is the Rotana Rose Rayhaan and our 4 star retreat for our stay in Dubai. It's located in the heart of downtown Dubai. A comparable hotel and location would cost you a small mortgage in Manhattan, New York. However, the abundant supply of luxury hotels in Dubai make them surprisingly affordable. You can easily find 4 or 5 star accommodations in the $120 - $150 a night price range.

Our room came complete with a yummy chocolate covered, almond filled date on the pillow each night with the turn down service. I started to look forward to that little treat each night. 

I initially thought our bathroom had a bidet or similar type facility. I later realized that the facility on the right is for ablutions, a ritual cleansing that Muslims conduct in preparation for prayer.