One step at a time, wherever these adventures lead.: True Definition of a “Staycation”

Important Safety Announcement

This was message sent out to our community:
“As advised by the UAE Defense Ministry, car owners should not fill their fuel tanks to full, as for the next few weeks the temperature will climb to 53-54 degrees Celsius, which can cause the fuel tank to burst/explode. Please pass this message to all of your contacts, as all of us here are in the habit of filling our car tanks to full. Please remember that prevention is better than cure and to enjoy safe motoring.”

Fortunately during the past few weeks, this notion has not come to fruition. Instead, it was a great way to explore the city and become more familiar with street navigation. It does help to have some guests and time to enjoy the vacation collectively.

Being a Tourist

View from the Health Club, on Sama’s top floor

At the top of the Marina Mall, in Tiara a rotating restaurant with 360 view of Abu Dhabi

And a few degrees to the right

In the restaurant’s lobby area

The Grand Mosque is an absolute “must see”!

Around the Grand Mosque just before dusk.

I cannot get enough of the sunset and this view.

Now onto our time well spent in Dubai.

First stop Burj Khalifa

Reminder about Tom Cruise’s recent Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol

Hazy weather but the view is still breathtaking

Followed by what felt like a grand tour at Mall of the Emirates

If only I liked chocolate this would be very fitting

Could be seen as a one’s candylicious dream

Instead I am a Skittles fan

Wild Berry to be exact and this picture says it all

Views such as these are the reason candy stores will never go out of business.

Can’t miss this eye catching water fountain.

Let the 5 Hour Sail Begin from Dubai Creek.

Basking in the sun.

Hiding out under my large hat.

Taking it a step further sans hat-upon direction from my photographer.

Such a hazy day that you couldn’t see the buildings on shore.

Anchor down the beach awaits.

Notice the distance from the shoreline. So I decided to opt out of the swim.

Was not sure of the water depth and with contacts, I knew salt water would be a bad idea.

Had the boat docked closer to the shore, I would have been more tempted.

Instead I dipped my feet into the water once everyone dove in.

I also took the opportunity to take the helm for a quick sec…the boat was anchored.

Returning back to Dubai Creek.

View of the Catamaran, which led us on our voyage that day.

Concluded that evening around downtown Dubai; looking up to the Burj Khalifa.

Back to Abu Dhabi for Some Basics

Worked with this company on a few occasions.

Thus far are the best for desert safaris/ overnight camping.

Camel Farm

Now onto some dune bashing.

There is a reason why the windows on your SUV are closed during this process.

Taking a quick break in the desert.

I figured why not get on the camel especially since everyone else had done so.

However once my ride was done, so was I. It’s still a nerve wrecking every time.

At night time a belly dancer graced us with her presence. Even after I avoided eye contact/audience participation, I was still pulled on stage by the belly dancer.

Other Abu Dhabi Highlights

Looking around the grounds of the Emirates Palace.

Can’t miss the Etihad Towers in front of the Palace.

Another corner of Abu Dhabi, the Capital Building.

The beachfront at the Corniche.

And of course, the staycation concluded with a dosage of Madonna.

Overall, this staycation is exactly what I needed at this time. Throughout the two weeks, I just kept telling myself what a great privilege to be having this experience. Even better if it is shared with good friends. It was nice to feel like a tourist in my “home” because I had a chance to experience many things for the first time since I have lived here. Now that I am approaching my 1 year mark, everything is starting to sink in especially being able to navigate my way around the city streets, and experience the wonderful international cuisine which exists here.

Bonus: End of Semester Good Eats