The hop on, hop off tourist bus operators practically mob us as we emerge into Lisbon from the cruise terminal along Av. Infante Don Henrique. However, we have our day more or less mapped out and we grab a taxi and head straight for the Tower of Belém.… Read the rest
Vigo
Today we are in Vigo, Spain, in the Provence of Galicia on the northwest coast. There has been a port here since the Middle Ages and there is a colorful if not rather violent history of attacks by Vikings, the English and the Turks, not to mention a period of French rule during the Napoleonic era.… Read the rest
Pialligo Estate
The day started out frosty but the sun is shining and mum and I are headed to lunch. We have chosen the Garden Pavillions at Pialligo Estate for a little mother daughter indulgence.
I remember coming to Pialligo as a child.… Read the rest
Al Ain Oasis
We find our way to the Al Ain Oasis from the Al Jahili Fort, only a 5 minute drive away. It is rather incredible to come across an oasis such as this in the middle of a city. However, it also makes sense that an oasis such as this is at the heart of the city.… Read the rest
Al Jahili Fort
After a day by the pool at the Mercure Jebal Hafeet followed by a not-so-successful trip to the Al Ain Zoo last night, I am keen to get out this morning and do some proper exploring.
First stop is breakfast and the pancakes are a hit, but shortly after that we are on our way to the top of Jebal Hafeet for some excellent views across Al Ain and more desert views over the border to Oman and into the empty quarter.… Read the rest
Al Ain Zoo
A visit to the Al Ain Zoo seems like a good idea. We have been chilling out by the pool for the best part of the day, I even snuck in a massage at the spa. The zoo is advertised for Ramadan hours which means that it is open late for when things get going after iftar. … Read the rest
Mushrif Park Trail Ride
Another Adventure Club outing. Today I’m headed to Mushrif Park, a huge (1300 acre) green space in Dubai that I have never really heard of before now. The park presents 13 models of Arabic and English houses as well as a cycle track, football fields and theatre screenings and I find that there are barbecues and picnic areas for the whole family to enjoy.… Read the rest
Al Jazirat Al Hamra – The Red Island
I wake before the alarm, shivering, barely remembering that I am awake to visit Al Jazirat Al Hamra – The Red Fort. The blankets have been kicked off in the night and the air conditioning is too cold.… Read the rest
In Bad Taste
Our ladies nights and various birthday celebrations have been getting more and more elaborate lately. It started with a night out, some friends and food, a drink or two and perhaps a chance to dress up a bit.… Read the rest
A Bit Of A Stretch For Soha & Sura
“This is our next one” Melissa announces excitedly. The ‘next one’ she refers to is our next ladies night outing, we are making a bit of a stretch for Soha and Sura’s birthdays.… Read the rest