Renowned for its incredible high-rises, luxurious hotels and resorts, extravagant nightlife, and overall bling culture, one easily forgets the Dubai of a bygone era. For anyone who says that Dubai has no historical soul needs to read a bit of the city’s history as well as check out the following historical landmarks which reinstate the roots of this uber-modern city. A visit to these remnants of Dubai’s earlier days is certainly worth it; still well preserved and beautiful the visitor will easily feel as if they journeyed back in time.

Monumental in structure and size, original in design concept, the Yas Hotel is an unforgettable sight. The 500- room hotel is now one of the main architectural features of the 36 billion dollar Yas Marina Development in Abu Dhabi. Designed by Asymptote architects Hani Rashid and Lise Anne Couture who envisioned an architectural monument which would reflect the elements of speed and movement, the Yas Hotel also recalls the artistry and geometric patterns of ancient Islamic art.

Who would have ever thought that New York City-based gourmet food outlets renowned for their impeccable quality and innovative creations would have made their way all the way East— to Dubai? From zesty chicken to chocolate and colorful cupcakes, Dubai foodies are easily in seventh heaven with the arrival of the following delectable food joints.

Downtown Dubai is quickly becoming one of the most sought after residential destinations in town. With easy access to The Dubai Mall, Burj Khalifa, and in close proximity to various commercial offices, this part of town is becoming an incredibly hip place to live. Emaar Properties has recently unveiled an iconic new residential project in response to such sentiment: The Palace Residences. These serviced apartments will be the latest for superior luxury living in Dubai.

Opulent and lavish like the city of Dubai, staying at one of the following Presidential Suites treats you to an experience of pure luxury. You will stay in rooms fit for Kings and Queens decorated in grandiose and artful style while being pampered and taken care of to your heart’s content. These presidential suites are located in Dubai’s most renowned hotels. One of kind in décor, service, and class, you won’t ever forget the experience.

For a country as young as the United Arab Emirates (unification took place in 1971) one might be surprised to find even the mere presence of a cultural institution. Culture has nevertheless proved to be one of the selling points of this small country. With plans to soon house collections from the Louvre and the Guggenheim in Abu Dhabi, the UAE surely hopes to become a destination for arts and culture. What is noteworthy is the county’s insistence on remembering its heritage even before unification took place. The following cultural institutions in Dubai recall the United Arab Emirates’ recent and ancient history and are excellent places to go to if you are yearning to escape from all the construction, hotels, and overall newness of the city.

Gordon Ramsay’s signature restaurant Verre at the Hilton Dubai Creek has a new look. Completely refurbished, the acclaimed restaurant now features a Michelin star Head Chef Scott Price, a new menu and also a very innovative Chef’s Table.

Contrary to its name, the newly opened Caramel Lounge and Restaurant is anything but sweet and childish. The uber-grown up smart and classy after hours bar is an excellent addition to the DIFC’s (Dubai International Financial Center) selection of venues and an equally noteworthy alternative to all time favorite Zuma, located just five minutes away. A Las Vegas export, you might expect something ostentatious but will be surprised by the sophistication, level of service, and enjoyable cuisine.

Like any major world metropolis, there is an abundance of designer jewelry and watch boutiques in Dubai. Pick anything from Graff, Cartier, Harry Winston, or Tiffany & Co. and you will find it. Yet what makes Dubai a bit more unique on the jewelry side is the city’s special relationship with the gold trade. Located at the crossroads of trade between the East and the West, Dubai has played a leading role in the global market for gold and diamonds earning the title “City of Gold.” The Gold Souk (souk means “market” in Arabic) and the recently opened Gold and Diamond Park are among the following exceptional places to scavenge for beautiful watches and jewelry in Dubai.