Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
SURVIVAL GUIDE
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ACCOMMODATION
The UAE has the gamut of places to unpack your suitcase, from ultraposh beach resorts to
romantic boutique hotels and buttoned-up business properties, furnished hotel apartments
with kitchens to basic hostels and inns where bathrooms may be shared. Those in the
midrange usually represent the best value for money.
Camping
Although the UAE has no official campgrounds, pitching a tent on a beach or in the desert
is very popular with locals and expats and is a free and safe way to spend the night. Be pre-
pared to pack everything in (and out), don't litter and bring a shovel to bury your 'busi-
ness'. For camping destinations consult locally published specialist guides widely available
in bookstores everywhere.
Hostels
There are five hostels affiliated with Hostelling International in the UAE: one each in
Dubai, Khor Fakkan and Fujairah and two in Sharjah. All are open to men and women, al-
though solo women are a rare sight. Facilities are basic and shared and smoking and alco-
hol prohibited. Accommodation is in dorms or family rooms, which may be available to
small groups and couples depending on availability and the manager's mood.
Cost
Since rates fluctuate wildly - depending on such factors as demand, location, season, day
of the week and major events or holidays - prices provided by Lonely Planet should only
be regarded as guidelines. Prices are official rack rates provided by the hotels but better
rates can usually be obtained through the hotel websites or online booking engines. Predict-
ably, rates are highest between November and March and lowest in July and August.
SLEEPING PRICE RANGES
The prices in this chapter are for an air-conditioned standard double room with private bathroom in peak season
(November to March). Unless otherwise stated breakfast is included in the price.
$
less than Dh400
$$
Dh400-Dh1000
