I often wonder what it must be like to live in some of the most touristy places around the world. Is it super crowded all the time? Is it always loud and chaotic? Do locals feel like there are always a lot of people around everywhere they go or are there some areas and places that are free of crowds – just for them to enjoy?Perhaps one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world is Dubai. Known for luxury shopping, ultramodern architecture and lively nightlife, this city has transformed itself from a desert outpost to a destination where tourists flock for sales bargains, sunshine, and family fun. But surely there is more to Dubai than just that, right? And what better way to understand this than chatting about all things Dubai with a local.

Today we explore Dubai with Sharon Cassidy, a long-time expatriate in this city. Sharon has been living in Dubai for the past 15 years and she shares all the reasons why Dubai is such a great place to not only visit but actually live, work and play.Sharon is an educator and lives with her family in Dubai and she says that the diversity of life and lifestyles she experiences in Dubai is quite unique – people from so many different walks of life come together to make a life here. From touristy hotspots to unique experiences, Sharon showcases Dubai in quite a different light than what we normally see in popular magazines and guidebooks. Yes, Dubai is a mecca for tourists but with a little help from locals like Sharon, you can experience this beautiful and vibrant city in a new way.Come join me as we explore Dubai with Sharon Cassidy on this episode of CulturallyOurs.

I would be remiss if I did not mention that due to changing travel advisories and restrictions as a result of the global pandemic, please check local and country specific travel guidelines before visiting.

{Photos by Sharon Cassidy; Website: My Free Range Family; Instagram: @myfreerangefamily }

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