DUBAI/MUMBAI, 5 DECEMBER, 2019 (GPN):  Travelling solo can be one of the most exciting, liberating and eye-opening experiences. It offers ample opportunity for self-reflection, growth and boundless freedom – and plenty of ‘me time’.

With Dubai being crowned one of the top cities in Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel List 2020, now is the perfect time to plan your own Eat, Pray Love–esque journey of self-discovery. Whatever your reason, Dubai brings together food, fitness, adventure and cultural exploration to suit all tastes and budgets.

Dubai’s latest collaboration with Hollywood superstars Gwyneth Paltrow, Kate Hudson and Zoe Saldana provide enough inspiration from some exciting itineraries showcasing three unique journeys of exploration through the city, filled with discovery and human connections.

GO WITH THE FLOW WITH KATE HUDSON

If you are an arts and culture enthusiast your just like Kate. Her itinerary provides an interesting mix of discovering the underground art in the city and soaking in local sights especially the glorious sunset by the creek.

Get ‘the’ view of the city from out on the water. Not only is this view an Instagrammer’s dream, but also good exercise to work up an appetite.

Just a short walk from the beach, you’ll find Dubai’s Surf House Café, home for everything surfing and stand-up paddle boarding in Dubai. There are also several other cafes dotted along the Jumeirah Beach Road.

Start at Al Fahidi before making a final stop  at Alserkal Avenue, for a visit to vibrant arthouse cinemas, quirky cafes, and pop up events that make this spot a go-to for all things Arts & Culture.

The Deira Creek is unmistakably the birthplace of Dubai; the legacy of this area is impressive. Grab a latte at Mazmi Coffee and More or be a local and hop on to the abra for AED1 to head across the waters and soak in the glorious sunset.

VENTURE INTO THE UNKNOWN WITH ZOE SALDANA

If you prefer discovering life outdoors and taking the path less trodden, Zoe’s itinerary is perfect for all you adventure junkies.

Take to the sky in a hot air balloon and watch the horizon light up as the sun rises over the Hajar Mountains and desert dunes. At 4,000ft, this is a sunrise like no other; followed by a breakfast feast at a heritage camp.

Hop aboard a vintage 1950s Land Rover to experience a one-of-a-kind wildlife safari through a pristine desert conservation reserve. Learn about the rich flora that spans the vast landscape and try to spot the native wildlife – from the Arabian Oryx, and Arabian Gazelle to the Sand Fox and more.

Whether you want to ride a motocross or a dune buggy, or you’d prefer to be driven by the pros in a 4×4 – they all go fast!

See what life in the desert looked like just a few decades ago at a Bedouin camp. Get up close and personal with a falcon and treat yourself to sundowners as you witness a picture-perfect sunset from the dunes. Ride a camel, dress up in local clothing (abayas and dishdashas) or grab your telescope for a spot of stargazing. Indulge in a traditional dinner over a campfire before you head back to the city or stay in the desert and settle into your tent for the night. Try Platinum Heritage for an authentic journey through the desert or the Al Maha Luxury Resort & Spa for pure luxury and opulence.

SOAK IN THE SIGHTS WITH GWYNETH PALTROW

If you love going to ‘must visit’ hot spots and trying out popular local delicacies for a wholesome experience of the city, Gwyneth’s take on exploring Dubai is the perfect way to take back memories to last a lifetime.

There’s Kite Beach for activities, the more secluded Black Palace Beach to escape the hustle and bustle, or Sunset Beach for the iconic picture with the Burj Al Arab in the backdrop. Don’t miss La Mer or The Beach by JBR for a hive of seaside activity ­– from beach-front dining and juice bars to an inflatable waterpark and a host of watersports.

You can get great snaps of old Dubai if you visit Al Seef, but you really can’t go home without the shot of the Burj Khalifa and The Dubai Fountain or that quintessential Burj Al Arab shot. If you need more ideas check out #MyDubai on Instagram.

If you really want to lose yourself and discover something new, a trip to the souks is a must. Venture to the famed Gold Souk for statement gold jewellery, then head on to the vibrant alleyways of the Spice Souk where you’ll find everything from exotic spices and herbs to dry-fruits, candied nuts and locally blended teas. Nearby, Deira’s Perfume Souk is a haven for perfumes, essential oils, incense sticks and traditional oud fragrances. Whatever it is you are looking for; you can probably find it in a souk but don’t forget to bargain.

It’s no surprise that Dubai is a foodie’s paradise; it is after all home to nearly 200 nationalities from around the world. While you’re here though, you must try some local Emirati food. Logma at The Dubai Mall or Al Fanar at Al Seef are among a range of options where you can combine a meal with shopping or sightseeing. While you’re there, don’t forget to try traditional Lugaimat, bite-sized sweet dumplings dipped in date syrup. ENDS