The concept of "World Expos" is a tradition dating back hundreds of years and are a unique cultural celebration of technology, arts, ideas, and a glimpse of the future. They are also as exhausting as they are thrilling and so when I think forward to this October when Dubai opens Expo 2020 I'm sure this will be even more over the top than others that have preceded it. The United Arab Emirates is a country that seemingly only understands outrageous excess and flamboyant displays of superiority and this I'm sure won't be any different. That's why we're excited to share some tips and advice for how guys can survive this as the ultimate mancation idea this year.
Expo 2020 Dubai kicks off on October 20, 2020 and runs through April 10, 2021. I can only imagine what will debut here since previous expos have featured the first telephone (Philadelphia, 1876), Eiffel Tower (Paris, 1889), Ferris Wheel (Chicago, 1893) and even the ice cream cone that debuted at the 1904 St Louis Expo. This year there will be more than 200 participants with pavilions ranging from national exhibitions to corporations, and educational institutions.
I remember back to my visit to Expo '86 in Vancouver and it was one of the most amazing experiences that I've ever had. From celebrating technological accomplishments like the space shuttle's robot arm, to IMAX movies of exotic destinations, and of course food from virtually every nation on earth. While Canadians know how to have a good time ... Dubai is certain to take things to the next level. That means you need to be prepared for fun but also to keep safe and have fun at the same time!
Dress Right and Wear Comfortable Shoes:
Most guys don't have to worry about wearing proper garb but do dress respectfully and avoid clothing that might have political or socially risky logos or slogans. Compared to other middle east destinations though, Dubai's dress code is pretty relaxed. Also, because of the dates of the expo, you won't need to worry about extreme heat. The average temperature during the Oct-April dates will be approximately 70-80 degrees though it will be the full sun with minimal chance for rain.
However, you will want to make sure to wear comfortable shoes since there will be a LOT of walking!
Stay Hydrated:
While you might think that being a desert climate it will be hot and dry in Dubai ... during the winter though the humidity level is only about 50-60%, or about the same as a typical building in the United States. That doesn't mean you shouldn't drink a lot of water though to keep up with all the exercise you're going to be doing. There's a lot of walking between the more than 190 different national pavilions!
Take Care Of Yourself and Relax:
Walking around the expo can be a lot of fun but make sure to take time to kick back and relax too. Dubai is known for its beaches, golf, and fabulous spas, so take care of yourself and get a deep tissue massage or just grab a chair on the beach and enjoy the sunset!
Yes, You Can Enjoy An Alcoholic Drink:
This is still a socially conservative Islamic country but they understand that tourists from around the world enjoy the occasional drink. Moderation and understanding local policies here is key though. For instance, to purchase alcohol at stores, tourists and residents both need a license to do so. You can, however, buy duty-free alcohol before leaving the airport and take it back to your hotel room. You can even buy it ahead of time online and pick it up there.
For more casual consumption of alcohol though, you can enjoy individual drinks at licensed restaurants, hotels and bars. Do not attempt to drink outside of permitted areas or be drunk in public as the emirate is extremely strict on this behavior.
