16 bb Dubai "Come into my shop, looking is free"

You forget how aggressive some of these stall holders can be, but yet it is
fun wandering down the covered lane ways with stalls selling, clothes,
chocolates, spices and souvenirs of all shapes and sizes. Haggling is the
fun part of visiting these parts, even if you are not sure if want what you
are bargaining for, it's the challenge that gets you in. "where are you
from?", "Come into my shop, I have more colours inside", "Good quality
pashminas". Everyone's tactics are the same, even draping items over your
shoulder and not making it easy to give them back.
After leaving the old souk, we walked back to the water front and for 1
dirham caught a ride on an Abra across the creek to the Spice Souk. Here the
same scene was played out again as we passed each store. Mesmerising are
the displays of the spices, intricately decorated plates and beaded kaftans
of every colour. Gold trays of valuable saffron on display behind lock and
key, make for beautiful photo opportunities.
As one souk leads to another we wove our way to the famous Dubai gold souk.
Brilliant displays of gold jewellery hang in every window as each shop tries
to compete for your custom. Magnificent designs and different shades of gold
depending on its Carat rating.