Prada Bag? Rolex watch? Gucci Sunglasses? Madame? Prada Bag? Rolex watch?

If I don’t give them eye contact maybe they won’t pursue. Crap, they follow me for a few steps. Repeating their motto. I shake my head, quicken the pace, and brace myself for the next round. If you’re looking for Gucci knock offs, the Dubai souks are the ticket.

I’ll admit I was a bit nervous after a friend told me to bring an escort to the gold souk. How bad could it be? I skipped the escort in favour of walking shoes. It’s not that bad…I didn’t get mugged but paid too much for a purse that broke the next day.

In the United Arab Emirates, souks are the traditional trading areas. In keeping with tradition, bargaining is expected and cash is the best bargaining tool. The meandering lanes of the gold souk sell everything from silver, pearls, and precious stones. I thought about adding a little “bling" to my look but decided it would clash with my ski boots once I got home.

The textile souk was my favourite spot because you can find fabric of every colour and style imaginable. If you buy fabric, you can stop at a tailoring shop to get a dress made. As much as I needed another sparkling, floor length ball gown, I skipped the tailors and bought a scarf.

The souks are prime territory for “people watching.” The sights and sounds are amazing as Europeans mix with veiled ladies, haggling shopkeepers, and old men hauling merchandise. Eager salesmen pick you from the crowds, ask where you’re from, chuckle, and guarantee you’ll get the “special price.”

I emerged from the souks sweaty and smiling because they don’t have anything like this at home. It’s chaotic and a little strung out kinda like Wall Mart on crack.