Travel
The week that life in Dubai floor to a halt
The scenes from Dubai this week seemed apocalyptic to residents who’re extra used to the tranquil nature of the sunny metropolis within the desert.
This metropolis hadn’t witnessed a pure catastrophe of such magnitude since data started, and the destruction it left behind solely turned obvious after the storm cleared.
The United Arab Emirates, of which Dubai is an element, noticed the heaviest rainfall in at the very least 75 years, with more than a year’s worth of precipitation in 24 hours. Life for a lot of within the glitzy tourism and monetary hub got here to a close to halt.
Emergency companies labored around the clock, and no deaths within the metropolis had been reported, though a 70-year-old man died after flooding swept away his car in neighboring Ras Al-Khaimah emirate.
The chaos that ensued was short-lived, nevertheless it confirmed town’s vulnerability to pure disasters.
As runways went underwater, flights were canceled at one of many world’s busiest airports. Flashy malls had been soaked with rain seeping by way of ceilings, and elevators stopped functioning in skyscrapers, forcing residents to climb stairs up dozens of flooring. Unable to return dwelling, some motorists slept of their vehicles as a result of blocked roads.
The photographs had been stunning for the hi-tech metropolis, a number one worldwide vacationer vacation spot which boasts a world-class infrastructure, a few of which gave in to pure catastrophe. Rain is scarce within the Persian Gulf area and concrete planning doesn’t account for the potential of main storms.
Dubai has a novel demographic mannequin. Of its 3.5 million people, 92% of are foreigners who come from 200 countries to reside and work within the metropolis, lured by its tax-free standing and relaxed life-style.
It’s the world’s second-best vacationer vacation spot, according to one report, with greater than 17 million guests arriving final 12 months, drawn by year-round sunshine, connoisseur eateries and luxurious procuring.
The disruptions this week impacted nearly everybody, from vacationers and migrant workers to the minority citizen inhabitants and Western expatriates.
The authorities referred to as on folks to stay home, however many ventured out anyway, solely to search out themselves unable to return as a result of waterlogged streets.
“The scary half is that there was nowhere you’ll be able to go,” stated Sofie, an expatriate resident who declined to supply her final title. She ended up stranded by the submerged roads for practically 12 hours, a few of which had been spent sleeping in her automotive.
On Sheikh Zayed Street, a 16-lane thoroughfare in Dubai lined with gleaming glass skyscrapers, motorists reported near-complete blockage in some areas, with vehicles going towards the visitors to flee the gridlock. Within the monetary district, dwelling to the regional operations of a number of the world’s prime banks, luxurious vehicles had been seen nearly solely underwater because the streets became lakes. Within the man-made Dubai Marina, a well-liked vacation spot for Western and Russian guests, furnishings from close by eating places and occasional retailers was swept away by the present.
Important injury
When the waters receded, streets had been left strewn with particles. Pictures in native media confirmed highways with lanes of deserted vehicles; in some neighborhoods, they’d but to be eliminated by Thursday morning.
The financial injury from the storm may go into billions of dirhams, with vital impression to automobiles, properties and infrastructure, stated Avinash Babur, chief govt of InsuranceMarket.ae, an insurance coverage dealer within the UAE (1 dirham is equal to $0.27).
“The present injury is important, with notable results on each private and non-private properties, together with key infrastructure,” he instructed CNN. “Whereas Dubai has skilled storms prior to now, the distinctive depth of this occasion has posed new challenges.”
The quantity of calls and enquiries for insurance coverage corporations has jumped tenfold, he stated, with a surge in demand for dwelling insurance coverage.
As some residents turned trapped of their homes with out electrical energy and unable to go away as a result of flooding outdoors, some opted to swim by way of swamps to flee. With landline use changing into more and more uncommon, these with out electrical energy relied on energy banks to make use of their smartphones.
For a lot of, the confinement was harking back to Covid-19 lockdowns in 2020.
Closely reliant on international guests and capital, Dubai was one of many first cities to return out of lockdowns as vacationer numbers dwindled and property costs fell, and the UAE was among the many first international locations to attain 100% vaccination in November 2021.
Babur stated the present scenario presents a chance for Dubai “to showcase its resilience and speedy restoration capabilities, much like its efficient administration through the Covid-19 pandemic.”
Reliance on smartphones
With meals apps suspending deliveries throughout and after the storm, some residents needed to resort to canned meals, or no matter was left of their fridges, for sustenance. These with out electrical energy used barbeques to cook dinner frozen meals left thawing in freezers. Some fared even worse, with houses inundated with water, generally as much as the waist, in keeping with movies shared in native media, with belongings, furnishings and home equipment destroyed.
The UAE has one of many highest smartphone penetration charges on the earth, at 96% (america is at 90%, whereas China is at 72%). Residents rely closely on dwelling deliveries for every thing from groceries and automotive gasoline to ice cream and pedicures on the faucet of a display, a phenomenon that took off through the Covid-19 lockdowns.
On a traditional day, town’s streets are teeming with bikers dashing to make deliveries for corporations that promise a 20-minute dispatch for groceries and 40 minutes for meals. However early this week, most weren’t delivering. That compelled folks to enterprise out on foot, resulting in giant crowds in neighborhood eateries and supermarkets, with hours-long traces for meals in some circumstances. Some eating places stayed open till the early hours to accommodate the demand. Residents reported seeing empty cabinets for some objects in supermarkets the day after the storm, together with frozen meals and prepared meals. The supply apps began resuming companies by Thursday, however had been nonetheless going through lengthy delays.
Ali Salem, a 55-year-old retired Emirati, instructed CNN on Thursday that he had been trapped in his home in Dubai’s upscale Jumeirah district because the storm hit on Tuesday as a result of waterlogging on his avenue. The house has been with out water or electrical energy since then, he stated, and he was instructed by the utility company on Tuesday that he’d have to attend two days for the difficulty to be resolved. Electrical energy was lastly restored on Friday.
“Lesson discovered,” he stated. “A generator could be helpful sooner or later.”
A festive ambiance
The rain, nevertheless, wasn’t as depressing for the younger. Faculties moved to distance studying for the remainder of the week, however some pupils with no electrical energy of their houses had been delighted to take a vacation, unable to energy their computer systems.
Then the memes began, with residents discovering pleasure and humor within the inconvenience of a once-in-75-years phenomenon. One viral social media video confirmed fish swimming in a pool of water on a pavement subsequent to an overflowing artifical lake. A number of movies on social media confirmed a festive ambiance, with youngsters hopping on dinghies as their neighborhoods became ponds. One video confirmed migrant employees taking part in volleyball in ankle-deep water; in a number of others, residents may very well be seen wakeboarding in flooded streets.
One other video confirmed boys jet snowboarding at full pace in a residential neighborhood, with the caption: “Solely in Dubai.”
CNN’s Nadeen Ebrahim, Salma Arafa and Anna Chernova contributed to this report.
For extra CNN information and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
Trustees of the British MuseumThe primary go to of Hawaiian royals to London two centuries in the past will characteristic in a brand new exhibit on the British Museum.
Hawai’i: A Kingdom Crossing Oceans is a “dazzling celebration of the wealthy artistry of Hawaiian makers, previous current and future”, based on the museum.
The exhibition, which opens in January, will commemorate greater than 200 years for the reason that go to of Hawaiian King Liholiho and Queen Kamāmalu to London in 1824 when the royal delegation have been searching for an alliance and safety from the Crown.
This journey to the capital included a go to to the British Museum – the primary file of Native Hawaiian royals on the museum.
Royal Assortment Enterprises LtdThe exhibition will characteristic round 150 objects and artworks together with many by no means seen within the UK.
Among the many highlights is an ahu ʻula, a feathered cloak despatched in 1810 by the primary king of unified Hawaiʻi, Kamehameha I, to King George III.
Lent by King Charles III from the Royal Assortment, the cloak will probably be on show for the primary time in over 100 years, alongside the Hawaiian king’s authentic letter requesting assist and safety from the British Crown.
Trustees of the British MuseumGuests to the museum will probably be greeted on the steps of the Nice Courtroom by a nine-foot (2.7m) picture of the god Kū, the god of warfare and governance, dressed with a recent loincloth and standing atop a pole rediscovered inside a historic plinth.
A finely carved drum accompanied by an historic chant recounting early Polynesian migrations to Hawaii will characteristic alongside a bowl with determine, not too long ago returned from mortgage to Hawaii’s Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum, that represents actions of individuals and objects between the Pacific and the UK.
The Anglo-Franco proclamation of 1843, on mortgage from The Nationwide Archives, highlights the UK and France’s formal recognition of Hawaii’s independence and emphasises diplomatic bonds between the nations.
Trustees of the British MuseumThe creation of the exhibition concerned “the meticulous conservation of ancestral treasures and the inclusion of ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi (the Hawaiian language) all through the area”, the British Museum mentioned.
Dr Alice Christophe, head of Oceania on the museum, mentioned the exhibit is a tribute to Native Hawaiian makers, previous and current.
She added: “It tells the story of the deep and layered relationship between Hawaii and the UK, reflecting on care, sovereignty and the complexity of allyship.
“We hope this present will spark conversations and uplift folks within the archipelago and past.”
The exhibition will run from 15 January to 25 May 2026.
France is a rustic steeped in historical past, and nowhere is that this extra evident than its fantastically preserved medieval cities.
From Alsace’s timber-framed homes to Provence’s dramatic hilltop villages.
These cities permit guests to step again in time, wander cobblestone streets, marvel at historical structure, and expertise the appeal of bygone eras.
On this listing, we’ve gathered 20 of the best-preserved medieval cities in France that you simply completely should see.
20 Greatest Medieval Cities in France To Go to
Scroll down to find the 20 finest medieval cities in France that needs to be on each historical past buff and tradition fanatic’s bucket listing!
1. Riquewihr, Alsace
Riquewihr is a picturesque village in Alsace typically described as some of the lovely in France.
Its well-preserved Sixteenth-century structure, with colourful half-timbered homes lining slender cobblestone streets, makes it really feel like stepping right into a fairy story.
Guests ought to come right here to expertise the distinctive Alsatian tradition, discover the encircling vineyards, and style the area’s well-known wines.
Don’t miss the Dolder Tower, a Thirteenth-century defensive gate, or wine cellars providing tastings. The Alsace villages are among the most picturesque places in France.
2. Eguisheim, Alsace
Eguisheim, a cute fairytale town in France, is thought for its concentric round format and vibrant floral shows.
The city’s magnificence lies in its colourful medieval homes, charming central sq., and surrounding vineyards.
Guests will take pleasure in strolling by the slender streets, visiting the Chapel of St. Leo IX, and mountain climbing the close by Three Castles path.
The city can also be well-known for its storks, which nest on rooftops throughout summer time.
3. Rocamadour, Occitanie
One in all France’s most unique towns is Rocamadour, a vertical village dramatically constructed into the face of a cliff. Its beautiful location and spiritual significance make it a must-visit place that needs to be in your France bucket list.
The city is dwelling to a number of vital spiritual websites, together with the Sanctuary of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
Guests can climb the Grand Escalier (Nice Staircase) to the château on the prime, which gives breathtaking views of the Alzou Canyon.
4. Sarlat-la-Canéda, Dordogne
Sarlat is without doubt one of the best-preserved medieval cities in France, well-known for its golden stone buildings and gastronomic delights.
Guests ought to come right here to wander the labyrinthine streets, discover the bustling market, and take pleasure in native specialties like foie gras and truffles.
Don’t miss the panoramic view from the highest of the Sainte-Marie church tower or a go to to the Manoir de Gisson.
5. Dinan, Brittany
Dinan is a walled city recognized for its spectacular ramparts, half-timbered homes, and picturesque port.
Guests will love strolling alongside the previous metropolis partitions, exploring the quaint Rue du Jerzual, and having fun with a meal at one of many cafes alongside the previous port.
The city’s magnificence is enhanced by its location overlooking the Rance River. Go to the Château de Dinan and climb the Tour de l’Horloge for panoramic views.
6. Honfleur, Normandy
Honfleur, with its picturesque previous harbor and slate-covered home facades, has lengthy been a favourite topic for artists.
Guests come for the charming ambiance, maritime historical past, and glorious seafood eating places.
Key points of interest embody the wood Church of Saint Catherine, the Eugene Boudin Museum, and the gorgeous Jardin des Personnalités.
7. Perouges, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
Perouges is a superbly preserved medieval walled city that appears frozen in time. Its cobbled streets and stone homes make it a preferred movie location.
Guests ought to expertise life in a Fifteenth-century city, style the native specialty “galette de Pérouges,” and benefit from the peaceable ambiance. Don’t miss the central Place du Tilleul or the Eglise-Forteresse.
8. Saint-Cirq-Lapopie, Occitanie
Perched excessive above the Lot River, Saint-Cirq-Lapopie is a shocking medieval village that has impressed many artists. Its magnificence lies in its dramatic setting, Gothic facades, and slender alleyways.
Guests can discover quite a few artisan outlets, hike within the surrounding space, or take a ship journey on the Lot River. The village is especially magical within the night when the day-trippers have left.
9. Gordes, Provence
Gordes is a placing hilltop village within the Luberon area, well-known for its stone buildings cascading down the hillside.
Guests come for the breathtaking views, particularly at sundown, and to discover the encircling lavender fields and olive groves.
Key points of interest embody the Sixteenth-century château, the close by Sénanque Abbey, and the standard Tuesday market.
10. Locronan, Brittany
Locronan is a small city that has maintained its Renaissance appeal, with granite homes and an exquisite central sq..
Guests will admire the dearth of seen trendy infrastructure, making it really feel actually timeless. The city is thought for its spiritual heritage, conventional Breton festivals, and as a filming location.
Don’t miss the Church of Saint Ronan or the native artisan workshops.
11. Cordes-sur-Ciel, Occitanie
Cordes-sur-Ciel, or “Cordes within the Sky,” is aptly named for its hilltop location, typically shrouded in morning mist. This bastide city is thought for its well-preserved Gothic structure and thriving arts scene.
Guests ought to come to discover the medieval homes, go to artisan workshops, and revel in panoramic views of the countryside. The city hosts a well-known medieval competition every July.
12. Mont Saint-Michel, Normandy
Mont Saint-Michel is without doubt one of the most iconic landmarks in France, a medieval marvel that rises dramatically from the ocean.
This UNESCO World Heritage website is a small rocky island topped by a shocking abbey and surrounded by a picturesque village.
Guests are drawn by its distinctive structure, wealthy historical past, and the fascinating phenomenon of maximum tides that isolate and join it to the mainland.
Discover the winding streets, go to the magnificent abbey, and be taught concerning the website’s significance as a pilgrimage heart.
13. Minerve, Occitanie
Minerve is a small village with a dramatic historical past, perched on a rocky peninsula between two deep gorges. Guests come for its Cathar historical past, beautiful pure setting, and glorious native wines.
Discover the village’s slender streets, go to the Twelfth-century church, and be taught concerning the Cathar siege on the small museum.
14. Monpazier, Nouvelle-Aquitaine
Monpazier is without doubt one of the best-preserved bastide cities in France, recognized for its excellent grid format and exquisite central sq..
Guests will admire the well-preserved medieval and Seventeenth-century structure, the lined market corridor, and the peaceable ambiance.
15. Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is nestled between two rocky cliffs, with a star suspended on a series between them.
The city is known for its advantageous porcelain and proximity to the Verdon Gorge – one of many best places in the French Riviera area.
Guests ought to discover the slender streets, go to the Notre Dame de Beauvoir chapel perched above the city, and store for native ceramics.
16. Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert, Occitanie
Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert is a serene medieval village tucked right into a dramatic gorge on the pilgrim path to Santiago de Compostela.
Its UNESCO-listed Gellone Abbey, with its exceptional Romanesque structure, rises above a maze of slender streets and stone homes.
Don’t miss the abbey’s lovely cloister, the Place de la Liberté with its historical elm tree, or the satan’s bridge spanning the gorge.
17. Conques, Occitanie
Conques is a jewel of Romanesque artwork nestled in a wooded gorge in Occitanie.
Its magnificent Abbey Church of Saint Foy, with its intricate tympanum and golden reliquary, has drawn pilgrims for hundreds of years alongside the Santiago de Compostela route.
Don’t miss the treasury’s medieval goldsmith assortment, the carved capitals within the cloister, or the sundown view from the Bancarel viewpoint.
18. Najac, Occitanie
Najac is a shocking medieval fortress city perched dramatically alongside a single ridge excessive above the Aveyron River.
Its majestic Thirteenth-century royal fortress stands on the highest level, whereas the village’s stone and half-timbered homes stretch alongside the ridge in a novel linear format.
Don’t miss the Gothic church of Saint-Jean with its uncommon fortified options, the panoramic views from the fortress hold, or the traditional lined market corridor the place native farmers promote their produce.
19. Vézelay, Bourgogne-Franche-Comté
Vézelay is a hilltop village in Burgundy topped by its magnificent Basilica of Saint Mary Magdalene.
This UNESCO World Heritage website rises majestically above the Remedy Valley, its golden stone glowing within the sundown whereas its medieval streets are lined with historic homes and ramparts.
Don’t miss the spectacular views over the Burgundian countryside, or the home the place Jules Roy lived, now a literature museum.
20. Saint-Paul-de-Vence, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
Saint-Paul-de-Vence is a remarkably preserved medieval city perched on a hilltop close to Good, remodeled into an inventive haven within the twentieth century.
Its large medieval ramparts encircle slender cobblestone streets lined with elegant stone homes, whereas up to date artwork galleries and boutiques occupy historical buildings.
Remaining Ideas on The Greatest French Medieval Cities
Exploring France’s medieval cities is like stepping right into a residing historical past e-book.
Every village gives a novel glimpse into the nation’s wealthy previous, well-preserved structure, and timeless appeal.
From the long-lasting Mont Saint-Michel to the lesser-known gems like Perouges, these cities present unforgettable experiences for historical past lovers, tradition lovers, and informal vacationers alike.
Able to plan your trip in France? Use our complete France Travel Guide to make sure you don’t miss any of the unbelievable locations.
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