Quote:
Originally Posted by Iggy City
Do you recommend using Canadian credit cards in UAE or just cash?
We're planning on staying in Dubai 4-5 days with a day trip to Abu Dhabi. Then another 3-4 days in Istanbul.
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Canadian credit cards are fine for things like hotels, restaurants, shopping, etc. But for taxis and venturing into the "low end" of Dubai, you will need cash. In the UAE, only dirhams are accepted. The dirham is tied to the USD at a rate of 1 USD/3.67 AED. Bring USD with you and you'll find currency exchange shops all over the place that give a decent rate. Don't bring your CAD because you'll get murdered on the rate. Alternatively, I've withdrawn money from my Canadian accounts here and it might cost you $5 on a couple thousand dirham withdrawal.
For 4-5 days I doubt you'd need much more than 1-2 thousand dirhams cash, especially if you're also using your credit cards. But the UAE is a land of luxury and there is no ceiling to what you can spend your money on.
As for hotel choices, I've stayed in literally dozens of hotels in Dubai and I can give advice on anything you're looking at.
The Marina View that scrambler mentions - I've stayed there, and he's right, it's a great location, and it's good value. BUT, it's missing some of the amenities and it is a bit run down compared to others. You can find similar types of hotels in Al Barsha for maybe less money, but Al Barsha is not as good a location. Marina View is in the thick of the marina action.
Anyway, without knowing a few of your particulars, it's hard to make a good recommendation. Who are you traveling with (wife, gf, buddies)? What budget suits you? Are you a drinker? Sightseer? Beach bums? etc....
Feel free to send a PM.
As for a meet up for a Flames game, I'm in for that!