Of all the beaches that I have been fortunate to go to in India, I would say Vizag's mysterious coast has impressed me the most. Far from the maddening crowds, there are calm and scenic spots right in the heart of the city. Home to a shipbuilding yard, an oil refinery and a steel plant, Vishakhapatnam has always lived up to its reputation of an industrial city in the state of Andhra Pradesh, India. These days, this busy port and natural harbor is among the fastest-growing cities in Asia. The amazing coastline, verdant hilltops, breathtaking views of the harbor, Eastern Ghats on one side and the Bay of Bengal on the other side, together conspire to make it the ‘Jewel of the East Coast.’

Three years ago when I visited Dubai for the first time, I was not so impressed with it. I thought the place was only enamored by the dazzle and fizz of the world’s highest, biggest and largest. But in my recent visit to the Emirate, I came back with an entirely different perception. I was taken in for a surprise when I explored it beyond its skyscrapers and lavish settings. I ensured that I kept away from the glitz and glamour and walked through its historical neighborhoods. This experience not only introduced me to its bygone eras but it also helped me find the gems of the Emirate that are high on art, culture and heritage.