“The world is a book and those who do not travel read only a page.” – said, Saint Augustine. Travel is wonderful in many ways, to create unforgettable memories and experiences, to gain a new perspective on our lives, and much more. Whether you’re travelling to experience the global culture or to go wanderlust and long-lost parts of the world, travel simply has quite a lot of benefits.

One of the significant benefits of travelling is finding and keeping inner balance. Too often, people get wrapped up in their lives, their daily routine of working, sleeping, eating, and living. They become self-absorbed to the point when their fatigue affects their health, their happiness, and their future. Travel helps people to form a better understanding of themselves, their beliefs, and their lives.

So, my people, if you’re thinking about putting off for some time for a nice relaxing vacation filled with enjoyment and that too on a budget, I would certainly recommend you to choose a destination known for its natural wonders and ethnically diversity like the United Arab Emirates or UAE.

The United Arab Emirates is a resplendent and a marvellously fascinating country submerged in the Middle East, on the Persian Gulf at the southeast end of the Arabian Peninsula. It is an association made up of seven different emirates ie.  Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ras Al Khaimah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, and Fujairah.

Travelers when backpacking to the UAE normally target only countries like Dubai and Abu Dhabi. But UAE has so much more to offer which would make your travel checklist go crazy. Below are some interesting places to visit:

Umm al-Quwain

 It stands to be the least populated emirate amongst the seven according to Global Media Insight. Dreamland Aqua Park is a must-visit which is a fun-filled destination featuring over 30 thrilling rides to choose from and attractions such as an oasis of palm and green turfs for a serene experience.

You might also want to check out the Umm al-Quwain Fort which has an impressive display of jewellery and weapons found at the Al Dur archaeological site.

Fujairah

The Fujairah Fort is considered to be the oldest fort among the seven Emirates. The strong and defensive building is worth a visit which is fully restored with former grandeur. Also in the city, you would find the oldest mosque which is the Al-Biyadh Mosque which is known for its engineering features. Completely built with mud-bricks it has been found out to be as old as 4000 years!

Ras Al Khaimah

It is the most fertile emirate and receives the maximum rainfall throughout the year. The Jebel Jais Viewing Deck Park is worth a visit. It is known for its viewing decks where one can view the most brilliant scenic views of the Arabian Gulf and the Hajar Mountain valleys with the help of binoculars.

Ajman

This is a place where one can unwind to nature and rejoice in the ancient forts and nature reserves. You can visit the Al Zorah Nature Reserve which is an excellent spot for bird watchers as there are numerous species of birds to check out which could be found around the year. The Ajman Museum is a historical site which illustrates the Ajman’s past. It holds artifacts that are centuries old and also has an excavated cemetery!

Other interesting things to do in the UAE:

Arabic coffee at Al Fahidi coffee museum

A trip to Dubai is just incomplete without savouring a hot cup of Arabic coffee. The first-ever dedicated coffee museum in Dubai, you must definitely check out the ancient coffee culture and the instruments used for brewing. Also, there are many small outlets around the streets apart from Al Fahidi which serve you authentic brew which is called ‘cuppa’.

Shawarma at Al Mallah

Nothing is more comforting than a pita bread stuffed with moist chicken or meat, drizzled with a creamy garlic sauce. Al Mallah Cafeteria is one of the most loved shawarma spots in Dubai. It is a budget-friendly restaurant with three outlets around the city serving up the most delicious shawarmas along with pastries, falafel, sandwiches, grills, snacks, and fresh juices. Make sure to grab a bite of this crowd favourite delicacy.

Fossil Rock in Dubai

Fossil Rock is the topmost demanding spot for hiking, fossil hunting, and Fossil Rock safari. Many of the fossils there are said to be over 80 million years old. Enjoy the clear blue skies, rocky hills and the untouched desert sand in one of the UAE’s natural wonders. 

Gold Souk in Deira

Dubai is known for its gold trade and it is almost impossible to not visit the gold markets. Today, Deira Gold Souk is known to sell cheap gold compared to its neighbouring areas and one of the reasons why people visit Dubai. Make sure to use some of your haggling skills to get the best price. You can also simply visit the shops to have a glimpse of the glitz and glamour in UAE.

While planning for your dreamy vacation make sure that you choose the best travel deals which offer you budget-friendly rates and the finest travel experience.

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It is the most trusted brand out there with plenty of awards to its kitty.

Put an end to your worries and indecisiveness on travel booking with Cleartrip. With a non-chaotic user interface, you can book your flight according to the latest schedule in just a few clicks! It’s super quick and easy. Cleartrip Fare Calendar keeps you updated with real-time Fare Alerts so that you can hit the bull’s eye and grab amazing deals. They have easy and comfortable payment options via credit cards, debit cards as well as net banking. Also, enjoy hassle-free cancellation and rescheduling of your flights.

Cleartrip also provides you with UAE e-visas It is a simple 4 step process and trustworthy too as they provide a 100% refund for users who have their visas rejected. You can apply for UAE Visa online through the Cleartrip website to avoid the troublesome and tedious Visa application procedure offline. Go ahead, book your tickets and enjoy your vacation to the fullest with Cleartrip.

**Post contributed by peer travel writer Deepak Gupta**