bastaflea – the flea market that could be

i missed the inaugural of “bastaflea”, the proposed flea market to be held in bastakiyya, dubai – perhaps my most favorite area in dubai.  the second flea market was disappointing – in fact, when i went yesterday, it was non existent!  which i thought is truly unfortunate.  bastakiyya is a restored historic area in dubai where some of the first settlers made it home. it also perhaps one of the best kept secrets in the city – many who have lived here for years do not even know it exists!  bastakiyya is an antidote to the flashy malls and hotels, a refuge from the noise, and the only reclusive experience from the hustle and bustle just outside its walls.  located on the creek in bur dubai, it has the feel of an old middle eastern mud walled city.  with its narrow lanes, boutique restaurant and art galleries, it has the potential of being a great destination – unfortunately, traffic is a big issue, and if you have lived in dubai, you know this is a big deal. Bastakiyya suffers from being in the wrong place and, just when you want to go there after work, also the wrong time. even if bastaflea were not to materialize or sustain its energy, i highly recommend bastakiyya to anyone in dubai or going there.