Dubai Insider's guidesAbout Lara Dunston and Terry Carter, our Dubai insidersHusband and wife writing duo Lara Dunston and Terry Carter moved to the United Arab Emirates in 1997 so have witnessed firsthand the ascension of Dubai as a travel hotspot.

The guides that help you live like a local

Want to experience a place just like the locals do? Meet our team of Insiders — real people who know their destination backwards and actually call the place home. They're here to share the do's and don'ts, the scams and the secrets, and get you beneath the surface before you even hit the road. Leave the touristy stuff at the door, and get Inside.
Where not to go Are you terrified of wasting hours stuck in Dubai's notorious traffic jams, only to find that the souk you sought is a touristy, overpriced and overheated nightmare? Luckily for you, Lara and Terry have sussed it all out, so here's the lowdown on where NOT to go. Near the beaten track Minarets and shopping malls may appeal to the masses, but if you really want to get to know another side of Dubai, check out her parks, ghettos and wildlife. Lara and Terry have put together some of their favourite secret haunts and tips to ensure you get inside Dubai and get the most out of your holiday. Expect the real deal. Itineraries Whether you've only got 24 hours in the UAE or an entire week to soak it up, we can help you map out all the 'musts' you can muster. Holidays are all about time management — see, do and taste the stuff you want in limited time. Our insiders, Lara and Terry, have put together a couple of itineraries to help you avoid those 'why didn't I...' regrets. Lists With so much to see and do in Dubai, we thought it best to give you an easy-to-use list that will help you break down the top spots and how to best experience them. Whether you're after absolutely amazing local bars and restaurants, or a bit of pampering after a long day in the sun, Lara and Terry have a list for you. Check out how they'd break it down in Dubai. The boring bits In addition to all the fun stuff you need to know before you hit the road, there are a few boring bits to cover off as well. Do you need to get a visa before you go? What kind of electrical plugs do they use in Dubai? What's the time zone? How about that 'Emirati' funny money? And when's the best time to plan your trip? Lara and Terry have the lowdown for you. Awesome links There are loads of great resources on the Web that will make your trip to Dubai even better. Lara and Terry have put together a list of favourite links that locals use all the time. Some are useful, some are entertaining, and some are downright bizarre.
Search ninemsn Travel:
Get a great travel deal
advertisement
http://ninemsn.lonelyplanet.com/
Buy Lonely Planet booksCovering everything from getting your visas to travelling with kids, our Lonely Planet guidebooks will help you plan your perfect trip.
Travel newsletter:
Around our site:
Mobile phones on planes?Should mobile phone use be allowed on long plane journeys, or would it drive you crazy? Have your say on this week's blog.
Travel AustraliaExplore your own back yard with our inspirational stories about Australian adventures.

Other ninemsn businesses: iSelect Mathletics RateCity
© 1997-2008 ninemsn Pty Ltd - All rights reserved