Dubai may be famous for the glitz and glamour of its sky-high towers, but the real heart of the city is, and always will be, the creek. The saltwater estuary is the original site where the Bani Yas tribe settled, and its waters were vital for what used to be Dubai's main forms of economy: pearl diving and fishing. The area is home to the Dubai Museum and Shindagha Museum, the waterside heritage retail area Al Seef, as well as the labyrinthine alleyways of the gold, spice and textile souks. While at the Creek, a ride across the water on a traditional abra is a must.

First-class performances and concerts are on the program of Culture Days, which is organized by the Salzburg Cultural Society. This music festival is famous for its Classical performances as well as its embrace of experimentation, not shying away from exciting mixtures of genres including hip-hop and hits from the world of musicals.

Orange County's largest multicultural festival celebrates Irvine's diversity. More than 50 cultures are represented, with music and dance on five stages. Cultural and religious displays, international cuisine, a world marketplace and a giant interactive Kids Village.