Originally Posted by
seliment
Having just returned from Europe flying with Emirates and having a stopover fir 3 days in Dubai....
1. Be aware that Qantas and Emirates codeshare, so buying a ticket from either may not guarantee that you are on a plane that is operated/badged by the ticket issuer.
The flight paths we took were more over Black Sea, but from reading media, it it surprising where each of the (major) airlines have had their flight corridors recently.
Basically, the Ukraine(ish) region is on/near the 'great circle' path to most of the (northern) European cities from SE Asia & Middle East.
2. If you get the option of flights that use the A380 rather than 777 or 747 ... Take it as the A380 has much more legroom, seat width and is quieter and produces less 'jetlag' as. A in runs at a higher pressure.
3. Dubai at this time of year is HOT (42C+ daytime, 30c night), but is well worth a stop for several days. In any case the place come alive as sun sets with shopping malls open till after 1am.
Not expensive - we stayed in good (Ibis) hotel for about $100 per night incl breakfast. Near to the 'old' part of Dubai.
Very interesting place, especially when you compare the 'new' high-rise and malls with the old ( souk / bazaar type markets). Very safe place as far as personal safety for anyone goes & good public transport and taxi system.
Joe.