Dubai isn’t all about big things and skyscrapers.

While modern Dubai has only been around for a few decades, the city has a remarkable history built on trade through the Middle East.

On our final full day in Dubai, we visited the old part of town around the Dubai Creek where small boats ply the waters and take people across to the spice and gold markets.

After an afternoon looking around and having a great Middle Eastern lunch at a little shop well off the tourist strip, we went on a desert safari.

Because when it’s 45 degrees in the shade, going out into the desert is just what you want to do.

Sand bashing in a Landcruiser, up and down the sand dunes – it was pretty hair-raising. Especially for the annoying French girl in our car who didn’t think to wear a seat belt.

From there it was into a desert camp with traditional dancing and camel rides.

If you go to Dubai, this is a must do.

Next stop – Rome.