UAE, Turkiye, and Doha, December 2022

I realized that I never shared my December adventures to Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Istanbul, and Doha. When I went to Europe in September, I was nervous about language barriers and being overwhelmed with not knowing where to do. Once I got there though, my fears were gone, and I had an amazing trip.

When I went to Asia and the Middle East, I was nervous about traveling but I must admit I was also a little more worried. I was worried about cultural differences, safety as an American in the Middle East, traveling as a solo female, and language barriers that included a whole other alphabet. But to my surprise (and delight), those fears were unfounded. So I'd like to take you on my journey and share some of my highlights.

Day 1: After a very long flight, I arrived in Abu Dhabi. My first faux pas - I didn't have local currency for the taxi from the airport to the hotel. And unlike my European adventure, I needed it. It wasn't a great way to start my trip. But it all got better when the next morning, I met my tour guide Victor. Some of my highlights included the Grand Mosque (gorgeous chandeliers), the Presidential Palace, the Louvre Abu Dhabi.

Day 4: Arrived in Dubai. I was fortunate that Victor was with me still. While in Dubai, I visited Al Ain, Old Dubai, saw an amazing skyline (like an art gallery), went on a desert safari, and rode a camel.

Day 8: Arrived in Istanbul Turkey. It was like NYC on steroids. 24/7, rainy, and yet the streets were covered with people. Highlights include the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, the Grand Bazaar, the Basilica Cistern, and the Presidential Summer Home. I loved Istanbul and hope to visit there again!

Day 12: Doha. This was an add-on to my trip so I could go to the FIFA Men's World Cup. And it did not disappoint. The National Museum of Qatar had an amazing exhibit on the Gulf War crisis. I visited the Museum of Islamic Art, and got caught in a mosh pit of Argentinian fans at the Souq Waif.