Because driving in the UAE is on the same side as the States, it is quite simple to transfer licenses across.
In Abu Dhabi (AD), you will need to make a trip to the Transport Authorities (AD Police) after receiving a residence visa. You will need a no-objection letter from your company, a copy of your passport, original driver's license, residence visa, two passport-size photos, and a total of 200dhs. When you arrive at the police, you'll tell the people at the information desk why you are there and they will first direct you to a room for your eye test, which will cost 50dhs. Then, you return to the information desk, and get directed with a number to the main area.
You'll then hand over your documents, money and wait for your new license to be made! It was actually a very quick process and fairly painless.
**
There are two ways to get an international driver's license. The easiest way is through a post office. You will need a copy of your UAE license, passport copy, two photos and 150dhs. When you arrive at the post office, the person at the information desk will give you a form to complete before directing you to a window where you'll hand in your documents. Again, another easy process.
The other way to get the international license is through the Arabian Automobile Association. Their main office is located in Dubai and thus you'll have to go there to get the license. It's only 50dhs through AAA, so if you're in Dubai already, it's not a bad method.
More tips to come!
-T
Showing posts with label UAE. Show all posts
Showing posts with label UAE. Show all posts
Friday, June 26, 2009
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
ZOO: Teaching Moments 2
I have a special needs student in my class. She has physical trouble getting around the school, but intellectually she is quite adept.
From day one, she has interrupted me while I was speaking to tell me that she didn't have a handout since she hadn't been to the first classes, or that she had a totally unrelated question. She constantly would tell me when she finished her work, which was always before anyone else in the class. Even though I have asked her a number of times to hold her answers until others are able to respond, she continues to shout out her answers before anyone else has a chance, thus silencing the class.
My teaching style is to let students shout out answers rather than call on individuals because I believe it creates a more open atmosphere, but she has continuously been trying to prove herself to me and her classmates that she is sharper and better.
Finally, yesterday I called her out in front of the class asking her to confer with her classmates about answers since she was in a group and to perhaps let others participate before she responds. She then clearly complained about my reprimand in Arabic, which one does not need to know the language to understand what was said. So, I asked her if she had something she'd like to say to me directly, to which she completely stopped talking for the rest of the class and wrote little notes in her notebook.
In the afternoon, I was called in to the Assistant Director's office because she had made a complaint to Student Services about me not being fair or understanding of her needs. I politely explained that while I respect her special physical needs, I will not provide her with any slack on the intellectual side. Though I do not know the culture here regarding people's responses to those with any kind of disability, I refuse in any country or culture to treat people differently if their minds are fully intact. Perhaps she is not used to this kind of treatment.
The good news is that the AD is being very supportive of the situation from my perspective and is taking what I've said back to Student Services who will then speak with the student again. Eventually, I will probably have to speak with her directly, though she should have just asked for an appointment to speak with me at the beginning as I have quickly learned that this culture is much more open about expressing their feelings than in Japan.
We shall see how it plays out, but this is very clearly contributing to my current lack of enjoyment with my students. I still have to see them for another 5 weeks, so it will have to get sorted out somehow.
On the bright side, they all just gave fabulous presentations! :D
Until next time...
-T
From day one, she has interrupted me while I was speaking to tell me that she didn't have a handout since she hadn't been to the first classes, or that she had a totally unrelated question. She constantly would tell me when she finished her work, which was always before anyone else in the class. Even though I have asked her a number of times to hold her answers until others are able to respond, she continues to shout out her answers before anyone else has a chance, thus silencing the class.
My teaching style is to let students shout out answers rather than call on individuals because I believe it creates a more open atmosphere, but she has continuously been trying to prove herself to me and her classmates that she is sharper and better.
Finally, yesterday I called her out in front of the class asking her to confer with her classmates about answers since she was in a group and to perhaps let others participate before she responds. She then clearly complained about my reprimand in Arabic, which one does not need to know the language to understand what was said. So, I asked her if she had something she'd like to say to me directly, to which she completely stopped talking for the rest of the class and wrote little notes in her notebook.
In the afternoon, I was called in to the Assistant Director's office because she had made a complaint to Student Services about me not being fair or understanding of her needs. I politely explained that while I respect her special physical needs, I will not provide her with any slack on the intellectual side. Though I do not know the culture here regarding people's responses to those with any kind of disability, I refuse in any country or culture to treat people differently if their minds are fully intact. Perhaps she is not used to this kind of treatment.
The good news is that the AD is being very supportive of the situation from my perspective and is taking what I've said back to Student Services who will then speak with the student again. Eventually, I will probably have to speak with her directly, though she should have just asked for an appointment to speak with me at the beginning as I have quickly learned that this culture is much more open about expressing their feelings than in Japan.
We shall see how it plays out, but this is very clearly contributing to my current lack of enjoyment with my students. I still have to see them for another 5 weeks, so it will have to get sorted out somehow.
On the bright side, they all just gave fabulous presentations! :D
Until next time...
-T
Sunday, February 22, 2009
Settling in...
I know that I should be updating more. Some have asked for pictures and some have wondered what has happened to me. I'm here, but I still don't have internet at home, thus it is difficult to update my usual blog. My fingers are crossed for the internet to be connected some time this week, which is a story in itself. I will write another post for that after I get connected. ;)
So, life is starting to settle as my weeks start to take on a normal routine. Here is a general lowdown of the passing of my time.
5:05am - Alarm goes off; hit snooze
5:15am - Get up: It is still very dark outside
5:35ish - Hear the morning call to prayer from the nearby mosque as I finish my shower
6:00am - Eat some breakfast and continue to wake up with some tunes on my iPod
6:25am - Head downstairs to meet others for the drive to work
6:40am - Arrive at work; turn on computer; get a cup of instant coffee; surf the internet; catch up on emails and Facebook
7:10am - Look at lesson plans for the day
**Sunday, Tuesday, Thursday**
8:00 - 9:30 - Teach the first block of lessons
9:30 - 12:00 - Eat lunch/snack; chat online; surf the internet; lesson plan for afternoon; organize my desk and life...
12:00 - 1:30 - Teach the second block of lessons
1:45pm - Bolt out of work and head ... a) home; b) the mall; or c) THE BEACH!
**Monday & Wednesday**
10:00 - 11:30 - Teach the first block of lessons
11:30 - 2:00 - Eat lunch/snack; chat online; surf the internet; lesson plan for afternoon; organize my desk and life...
2:00 - 3:30 - Teach the second block of lessons
3:45pm - Bolt out of work and head home or the beach
10:00pm - Head to bed
- Thursday nights are spent out with THE SHIFT (a gathering of colleagues at a pub for an end-of-the-week drink(s)) and then usually out somewhere after that.
- Friday is a holy day so there is not much to do other than hit the beach and relax until the evening when one can go out on the town.
- Saturday seems like a regular work day for most people, so grocery shopping and other errands get taken care of then along with a trip to the beach or tennis or something else fun before the weekend ends!
Starting today, I will begin tennis with my new coach (good friend, Jen) and hopefully get myself to a point where I can play a decent game, but there's a lot of work to do before that happens. Plus, once it gets hot I will be worthless....
Coming in the next weeks will be checking out the pottery and pilates studios along with joining some salsa classes once or twice a week. So...as usual I will find myself busy. Oh and yes, there is that whole phd studying thing... :D
More to come!
Until next time ~
-T
So, life is starting to settle as my weeks start to take on a normal routine. Here is a general lowdown of the passing of my time.
5:05am - Alarm goes off; hit snooze
5:15am - Get up: It is still very dark outside
5:35ish - Hear the morning call to prayer from the nearby mosque as I finish my shower
6:00am - Eat some breakfast and continue to wake up with some tunes on my iPod
6:25am - Head downstairs to meet others for the drive to work
6:40am - Arrive at work; turn on computer; get a cup of instant coffee; surf the internet; catch up on emails and Facebook
7:10am - Look at lesson plans for the day
**Sunday, Tuesday, Thursday**
8:00 - 9:30 - Teach the first block of lessons
9:30 - 12:00 - Eat lunch/snack; chat online; surf the internet; lesson plan for afternoon; organize my desk and life...
12:00 - 1:30 - Teach the second block of lessons
1:45pm - Bolt out of work and head ... a) home; b) the mall; or c) THE BEACH!
**Monday & Wednesday**
10:00 - 11:30 - Teach the first block of lessons
11:30 - 2:00 - Eat lunch/snack; chat online; surf the internet; lesson plan for afternoon; organize my desk and life...
2:00 - 3:30 - Teach the second block of lessons
3:45pm - Bolt out of work and head home or the beach
10:00pm - Head to bed
- Thursday nights are spent out with THE SHIFT (a gathering of colleagues at a pub for an end-of-the-week drink(s)) and then usually out somewhere after that.
- Friday is a holy day so there is not much to do other than hit the beach and relax until the evening when one can go out on the town.
- Saturday seems like a regular work day for most people, so grocery shopping and other errands get taken care of then along with a trip to the beach or tennis or something else fun before the weekend ends!
Starting today, I will begin tennis with my new coach (good friend, Jen) and hopefully get myself to a point where I can play a decent game, but there's a lot of work to do before that happens. Plus, once it gets hot I will be worthless....
Coming in the next weeks will be checking out the pottery and pilates studios along with joining some salsa classes once or twice a week. So...as usual I will find myself busy. Oh and yes, there is that whole phd studying thing... :D
More to come!
Until next time ~
-T
Thursday, February 12, 2009
ZOO: Classroom Moments 1
Cultural Observation: Negotiations are done loudly and with great expression until finally a coin is tossed to determine a winner.
My students have begun working on group projects this afternoon. I have given them a rare period to begin working. One of the tasks is to determine a country to focus on, but no group may have the same country. Of course, two groups wanted the same country.
Student A asks around for what countries everyone is doing. Group 1 says Yemen. Group 4 also wants Yemen (Student A's group). Arabic begins flying from group to group. Here is my translation/interpretation of what went round:
Argument 1: Group 1 has four students while Group 4 has only two present. [rationale by majority]
Argument denied.
Argument 2: Group 1 tells Teacher which country they are doing. Teacher says Sure. It's now decided.
Argument refuted that Student A had been asking other groups, so in essence she should get a say first on which country and that asking Teacher doesn't count.
Argument 3: We've already started researching about the country.
Argument refuted - so have we "See" (showing computer screen)
Argument 4: Shout over the top of the others and the loudest person wins.
Argument void as both groups shout.
Meanwhile I am laughing... I laugh more when I see the 1 dirham coin come out and Student A gets up to flip. Flip. Student A makes a noise, face and laughter ensues. She has lost.
Result Group 1 wins Yemen. Lesson learned? Majority does win and the louder the better!
Ah... entertainment at its finest. You can't get this on television, I tell ya'!
Until next time...
-T
My students have begun working on group projects this afternoon. I have given them a rare period to begin working. One of the tasks is to determine a country to focus on, but no group may have the same country. Of course, two groups wanted the same country.
Student A asks around for what countries everyone is doing. Group 1 says Yemen. Group 4 also wants Yemen (Student A's group). Arabic begins flying from group to group. Here is my translation/interpretation of what went round:
Argument 1: Group 1 has four students while Group 4 has only two present. [rationale by majority]
Argument denied.
Argument 2: Group 1 tells Teacher which country they are doing. Teacher says Sure. It's now decided.
Argument refuted that Student A had been asking other groups, so in essence she should get a say first on which country and that asking Teacher doesn't count.
Argument 3: We've already started researching about the country.
Argument refuted - so have we "See" (showing computer screen)
Argument 4: Shout over the top of the others and the loudest person wins.
Argument void as both groups shout.
Meanwhile I am laughing... I laugh more when I see the 1 dirham coin come out and Student A gets up to flip. Flip. Student A makes a noise, face and laughter ensues. She has lost.
Result Group 1 wins Yemen. Lesson learned? Majority does win and the louder the better!
Ah... entertainment at its finest. You can't get this on television, I tell ya'!
Until next time...
-T
Monday, February 9, 2009
ZOO: Teaching Moments 1
Issue 1: 5-minutes = late for both two hour sessions
On Day 1, we discussed as a class the rule for coming in late to class. Instead of having a break half-way between the two 1-hour sessions, we go for 90-minutes straight. This means that the rule for being allowed 5-minutes to be late applies to both hourly sessions in the morning and afternoon.
Yesterday wasn't a problem because class began at 10am. This morning was the first time the class began at 8am after the rules were discussed. At 8am for roll call, there were 4 students sitting in their seats. At 8:20 three more students came in and by the end of the 90-minutes 11 students were present.
The three that waltzed in first were convinced I should mark them as present for at least the second-half of the morning session because, of course, their previous teachers had done the same.
My response:
"New course, new level, new teacher, new rules".
Student response:
- Silent looks of disapproval, whispers and pouty faces.
Lesson learned: Teacher is strict...and, students are the same no matter where you go.
People are the same no matter where you go. It's comforting, at least, to know that humanity and behaviour crosses cultures and language. :D
In the end, we came to an agreement. Today, I will be flexible. Tomorrow, I will not. Any questions? None.
Until next time...
-T
PS I will post these moments back on my Mental Meanderings blog once I am internet-friendly at home!
On Day 1, we discussed as a class the rule for coming in late to class. Instead of having a break half-way between the two 1-hour sessions, we go for 90-minutes straight. This means that the rule for being allowed 5-minutes to be late applies to both hourly sessions in the morning and afternoon.
Yesterday wasn't a problem because class began at 10am. This morning was the first time the class began at 8am after the rules were discussed. At 8am for roll call, there were 4 students sitting in their seats. At 8:20 three more students came in and by the end of the 90-minutes 11 students were present.
The three that waltzed in first were convinced I should mark them as present for at least the second-half of the morning session because, of course, their previous teachers had done the same.
My response:
"New course, new level, new teacher, new rules".
Student response:
- Silent looks of disapproval, whispers and pouty faces.
Lesson learned: Teacher is strict...and, students are the same no matter where you go.
People are the same no matter where you go. It's comforting, at least, to know that humanity and behaviour crosses cultures and language. :D
In the end, we came to an agreement. Today, I will be flexible. Tomorrow, I will not. Any questions? None.
Until next time...
-T
PS I will post these moments back on my Mental Meanderings blog once I am internet-friendly at home!
Sunday, February 8, 2009
Abu Dhabi: A week complete
Eventually I will have to stop counting the time that has passed and
truly accept that this is where I live but I still am adjusting. Life
isn't truly settled until I have Internet access at home (to come in a
few days!) and more furniture. The good news is that my material life
is in the country and en route to my new digs. So perhaps then I will
feel better.
truly accept that this is where I live but I still am adjusting. Life
isn't truly settled until I have Internet access at home (to come in a
few days!) and more furniture. The good news is that my material life
is in the country and en route to my new digs. So perhaps then I will
feel better.
The first day of classes has passed. I have an interesting group of 13
whom I will see for 4 hours a day over the next 8 weeks. It is my hope
they will all pass out of the class so that they can be fully
matriculated in the university but already there are a couple that are
questionable and it is no surprise this is their last chance to pass
the program...
Adjusting to the schedule may be the most challenging. I am currently
sharing taxi ride with another new colleague but she has an earlier
schedule than me. I start at 8 three time a week and finish around 2.
The other two days I don't start until 10 and then finish around 4.
She is always on a 730 - 130 schedule so we are going in around 630.
Still early even by my standards. The cool thing is that there isn't
much need to lesson plan much and after work I still have time in the
day to do other things.
So this afternoon I got my Internet ordered and cell phone set up so I
can receive and make international calls. Then I headed to the mall
for a bit of pampering with a pedicure and more house-shopping. I only
managed new bedding but that is an accomplishment considering most
stuff is a bit too boudour-esque for me.
So this ends another long blog post. I really got post more regularly
to share everything!!!
Until next time...
-T
twaller2008@i.softbank.jp
Sent from my iPhone
Thursday, February 5, 2009
Abu Dhabi: Days 4 & 5
I'm not sure if it is more stressful to settle in to an apartment,
start a new job with very little knowledge of the course, or walk
around at night as a single woman with streets filled with only men.
Votes?
start a new job with very little knowledge of the course, or walk
around at night as a single woman with streets filled with only men.
Votes?
The past two days have been filled with information about classes. It
has definitely been much more useful than some of re other stuff, but
my head is swimming. I spent two days trying to figure out how to
print in by office. Finally I got it sorted about a half hour before I
was planning to leave. So at least I know what I need to copy fist
thing on Sunday morning.
For the first time I am using PowerPoint as my teaching medium. So I
spent a couple of hours today sorting out my lesson plan for the first
two-hour session with my new students. After a day of rest I will plan
the second two-hour session before Sunday. I think the planning will
get easier and faster soon though.
Today being "Friday" means that drinks were in order after a full
week. So while we planned to go to Ikea again the traffic was so bad
getting a taxi that we decided to hit the happy hour where our new
colleagues were gathering this week. Apparently each week takes them
to a new venue which will be nice for getting to know people and the
city.
After a couple of drinks we went shopping. Before I knew it the mall
was closing and I realized it was already 11pm. So we do not recommend
shopping after drinking!
Overall the week has come to a nice end. I need a break for part of a
day at the least. But it seems that the job will be good and life will
be manageable...
So until next time,
-T
twaller2008@i.softbank.jp
Sent from my iPhone
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
Abu Dhabi: Orientation Days 1 ~ 3
It is hard to believe that three days have already passed since leaving Japan and arriving in Abu Dhabi. The days have been a blur with information overload, shopping until dropping (literally) and adjustments mentally, physically and emotionally to a new culture and place.
The best part of the whole situation at the moment is the hotel I am staying at. The Rotana Beach Hotel is lovely.
The photo is of the ceiling in the lobby, just thought it looked cool. ;D
So, Day 1 was a bit of a rough start. As Nick and I didn't have access to the updated schedule, we waited about a half hour in the lobby thinking someone would be there to pick us up. 9am came around when our first orientation session should have begun and no one was to be found in our hotel. After trying to make a few calls or find out what was going on, it turned out that we missed the provided transportation to take us to the university. Thus, we hopped in to a very expensive taxi and made it to the university on our own. After arriving, we spent another 15 minutes trying to suss out where we should be since no one was in the room we were told to go to. In the end, we managed to find the orientation session in full swing, but walked right in as if nothing was amiss. The funnier thing is that no one else seemed at all bothered by the fact that we were 45 minutes late.
Culture rule #1 realized - Time is a fluid concept...except in the classroom.
So, we continued with orientation along with everyone else. Met a few of the other new starts. There are about 15 of us in total, though all but 5 of us started a week ago and thus have bonded a bit more, settled in to their apartments more, etc.
Day 2 began with a health check-up. We got up before the sun, went to the hospital to have blood drawn and an x-ray taken. Then, if was a serious day of shopping or comparing prices for things, considering what should go into the unnecessary space that is called my apartment and try not to freak out at the whole idea of it all! I did manage by the very end of the day to buy my fridge, gas/electric range oven and washer/dryer machine. Also, to avoid a bed purchase, I got an air mattress to use until my things arrive next week from Japan and bedding for an extra bed should I ever get around to furnishing a guest room. By the end, I collapsed into my comfy hotel bed at 9:30 until the alarm roused me at 6:30 on Day 3.
Now is the end of Day 3, which I think was perhaps the most useless day of all. We had another early start, but started with an overview of the university and students lecture, then moved on to IT stuff. Some of it was useful information, but overall I was generally bored and wanted to just find my desk space and know my class schedule. I am told the class stuff comes tomorrow, so I am looking forward to that. The greatest fun was finding my desk. Another new guy said he saw my name on a desk at the Men's Campus - a 10minute walk from the main campus, where Nick is located - so I went with others there to find my desk. I walked around all the desks and found no Tara Waller. I did see a desk with someone named Tara D----. That wasn't me.... So, I trekked back to the main campus and went to the large teachers' room and looked around and around. I saw another cubicle with Tara D----'s name on it, but no Tara Waller. Great! I thought I was confused by the other Tara and had no home.... However, after being directed to speak with the lady responsible for assigning cubicle spaces, she took me across the hall to a smaller teachers' room, where at last I found a home! It was satisfying, though the environment could be questionable with a noisy fan and less enthusiastic neighbor, but we shall see how it goes. The cool thing is I have met a fellow Portlander whose cubicle is in front of mine, so we can continue to have an Oregon bond. ;D
So, this winds up my first 72 hours in Abu Dhabi. I've made some cultural notes already, but that shall come later.
Until tomorrow,
-T
The best part of the whole situation at the moment is the hotel I am staying at. The Rotana Beach Hotel is lovely.
The photo is of the ceiling in the lobby, just thought it looked cool. ;DSo, Day 1 was a bit of a rough start. As Nick and I didn't have access to the updated schedule, we waited about a half hour in the lobby thinking someone would be there to pick us up. 9am came around when our first orientation session should have begun and no one was to be found in our hotel. After trying to make a few calls or find out what was going on, it turned out that we missed the provided transportation to take us to the university. Thus, we hopped in to a very expensive taxi and made it to the university on our own. After arriving, we spent another 15 minutes trying to suss out where we should be since no one was in the room we were told to go to. In the end, we managed to find the orientation session in full swing, but walked right in as if nothing was amiss. The funnier thing is that no one else seemed at all bothered by the fact that we were 45 minutes late.
Culture rule #1 realized - Time is a fluid concept...except in the classroom.
So, we continued with orientation along with everyone else. Met a few of the other new starts. There are about 15 of us in total, though all but 5 of us started a week ago and thus have bonded a bit more, settled in to their apartments more, etc.
Day 2 began with a health check-up. We got up before the sun, went to the hospital to have blood drawn and an x-ray taken. Then, if was a serious day of shopping or comparing prices for things, considering what should go into the unnecessary space that is called my apartment and try not to freak out at the whole idea of it all! I did manage by the very end of the day to buy my fridge, gas/electric range oven and washer/dryer machine. Also, to avoid a bed purchase, I got an air mattress to use until my things arrive next week from Japan and bedding for an extra bed should I ever get around to furnishing a guest room. By the end, I collapsed into my comfy hotel bed at 9:30 until the alarm roused me at 6:30 on Day 3.
Now is the end of Day 3, which I think was perhaps the most useless day of all. We had another early start, but started with an overview of the university and students lecture, then moved on to IT stuff. Some of it was useful information, but overall I was generally bored and wanted to just find my desk space and know my class schedule. I am told the class stuff comes tomorrow, so I am looking forward to that. The greatest fun was finding my desk. Another new guy said he saw my name on a desk at the Men's Campus - a 10minute walk from the main campus, where Nick is located - so I went with others there to find my desk. I walked around all the desks and found no Tara Waller. I did see a desk with someone named Tara D----. That wasn't me.... So, I trekked back to the main campus and went to the large teachers' room and looked around and around. I saw another cubicle with Tara D----'s name on it, but no Tara Waller. Great! I thought I was confused by the other Tara and had no home.... However, after being directed to speak with the lady responsible for assigning cubicle spaces, she took me across the hall to a smaller teachers' room, where at last I found a home! It was satisfying, though the environment could be questionable with a noisy fan and less enthusiastic neighbor, but we shall see how it goes. The cool thing is I have met a fellow Portlander whose cubicle is in front of mine, so we can continue to have an Oregon bond. ;D
So, this winds up my first 72 hours in Abu Dhabi. I've made some cultural notes already, but that shall come later.
Until tomorrow,
-T
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
Dubai Day 21
One more day....
More of the same on Wednesday - had to finish studying. I managed to get caught up and a bit ahead in one course. So, I shouldn't have to worry about it while I am in NYC. I have readings to take with me for the second course, but the tasks can be done once I get to Oregon, if I focus! My first assignments are due the first week back at work, so that should be interesting....
Anyway, I went to the pool in the afternoon, but they were cleaning it. So, I took a nap laying in the sun while trying to finish up my book, _Collapse_. I realized for the first time, though, that I am brown. Imagine what I would look like if I lived here!
In the evening, Allan was still not feeling well with a very sore throat, so we stayed local and went to a Chinese restaurant, called Spring Bamboo. It was actually quite nice and it was good to see Chinese people eating there as well since that is usually a good sign. Afterwards, we had Coldstone Creamery ice cream at Lamcy Plaza, which was very hard to finish and then came home to relax.
Tomorrow is my last day. I may not write until I get back to Oregon, but if I have a chance while in NYC, I will try to post a bit then. Nothing planned for the day, tomorrow, packing and sunning. My flight is at night, so at least I have the day to relax and make one last meal at Allan's. :D
Until next time,
-T
More of the same on Wednesday - had to finish studying. I managed to get caught up and a bit ahead in one course. So, I shouldn't have to worry about it while I am in NYC. I have readings to take with me for the second course, but the tasks can be done once I get to Oregon, if I focus! My first assignments are due the first week back at work, so that should be interesting....
Anyway, I went to the pool in the afternoon, but they were cleaning it. So, I took a nap laying in the sun while trying to finish up my book, _Collapse_. I realized for the first time, though, that I am brown. Imagine what I would look like if I lived here!
In the evening, Allan was still not feeling well with a very sore throat, so we stayed local and went to a Chinese restaurant, called Spring Bamboo. It was actually quite nice and it was good to see Chinese people eating there as well since that is usually a good sign. Afterwards, we had Coldstone Creamery ice cream at Lamcy Plaza, which was very hard to finish and then came home to relax.
Tomorrow is my last day. I may not write until I get back to Oregon, but if I have a chance while in NYC, I will try to post a bit then. Nothing planned for the day, tomorrow, packing and sunning. My flight is at night, so at least I have the day to relax and make one last meal at Allan's. :D
Until next time,
-T
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
Dubai Day 20
Only two more days left.... :(
Unfortunately, Tuesday was all about getting studying done. I plowed through another module (unit) in my "Discourse in Professional and Organizational Contexts" course. It's not my favorite I have to admit, but it has interesting bits here and there. I started a module that I should have finished last week for my "Concepts in Managing Language Programs" course, which is much more interesting for me, but I only got half way through the module, so it will require another day of studying.
I did stop early afternoon to do some cooking since we were having guests over for dinner. Michael (pronounced Me-hal) and his wife, Maride (Marith) from Ireland came for dinner in the evening. Michael and Allan work together and Maride works at a high school in Dubai. They have been here for about 9 years, so there must be something nice about it here. ;D Anyway, we had a nice time.
Before that, I made it down to the pool as I needed a break from everything for a bit. Somehow the pool was only about half level full, so not sure what is going on. Maybe they are cleaning it for Ramadan?? Will have to see if it stays that way tomorrow.
Until next time,
-T
Unfortunately, Tuesday was all about getting studying done. I plowed through another module (unit) in my "Discourse in Professional and Organizational Contexts" course. It's not my favorite I have to admit, but it has interesting bits here and there. I started a module that I should have finished last week for my "Concepts in Managing Language Programs" course, which is much more interesting for me, but I only got half way through the module, so it will require another day of studying.
I did stop early afternoon to do some cooking since we were having guests over for dinner. Michael (pronounced Me-hal) and his wife, Maride (Marith) from Ireland came for dinner in the evening. Michael and Allan work together and Maride works at a high school in Dubai. They have been here for about 9 years, so there must be something nice about it here. ;D Anyway, we had a nice time.
Before that, I made it down to the pool as I needed a break from everything for a bit. Somehow the pool was only about half level full, so not sure what is going on. Maybe they are cleaning it for Ramadan?? Will have to see if it stays that way tomorrow.
Until next time,
-T
Monday, September 1, 2008
Dubai Day 19
My days will be very quiet for the next few left in Dubai.
For Monday (Day 19), I ended up getting up fairly early since we did go to bed around 9:30pm. Allan has caught a cold or something, so hasn't been so energetic the past couple of days. So, on Sunday night, we relaxed, watched soccer and went to bed early!
Thus, I woke up early on Monday and was determined to get some work done as I'm a little bit behind on things. I managed to get work-work done, but still have one syllabus to put together, which will have to wait until I get back to Japan.
Then, it was on to studying. For some reason I cannot get into this discourse course I am taking...so, I spent most of the morning trying to plow through that with very little success. I finished a few tasks in the assignments, but was distracted by laundry and finally gave up around 10am and went to the City Centre to get groceries.
So, at City Centre I intended to just get the groceries and go home, but instead shopped for sunglasses since I recently determined that mine are all scratched and lacking in some style, though still good. So, I searched. I had searched before, but as I have a very flat face and high cheekbones, it is often difficult for me to find a pair of glasses that fit just right on my face. In other stores, I found that Armani and D&G glasses fit me relatively well with still some style to them. Though, the style I most like will NOT fit my face no matter how many pairs I try on.
I walked into a store. Tried a few on. The salesman was unusually less stalking or watching than other stores, so I felt comfortable to keep trying on different styles. He knew what would fit my face and gave me a few others to try on. I found a pair that worked. I held on to them as I tried on more. I kept going back to the pair in my hand to confirm I liked them and they fit. After looking at basically everything, I bought the pair in my hand. They are Giorgio Armani and they cost a pretty penny - never spent so much on a pair of sunglasses before, but I'm living on the edge. They aren't gaudy, but still somewhat stylish, I think. Maybe you'll get a photo of them on later!
After that, I tried to go to Starbucks to buy coffee beans. Forgetting that Ramadan had started, I found it eerie that all the food stalls including Starbucks were closed!!! So, I bought groceries and headed home.
In the evening, we went out to Thai food at the nearby Lemongrass restaurant near Lamcy Plaza. It was really good Thai food and since the sun had gone done, the Ramadan fast was broken for the day and people were out and about eating. We stopped in Lamcy Plaza again to look for some medicine and gifts before heading home. It was another early night for us, but I suppose it will make getting back to work easier!
Until next time,
-T
For Monday (Day 19), I ended up getting up fairly early since we did go to bed around 9:30pm. Allan has caught a cold or something, so hasn't been so energetic the past couple of days. So, on Sunday night, we relaxed, watched soccer and went to bed early!
Thus, I woke up early on Monday and was determined to get some work done as I'm a little bit behind on things. I managed to get work-work done, but still have one syllabus to put together, which will have to wait until I get back to Japan.
Then, it was on to studying. For some reason I cannot get into this discourse course I am taking...so, I spent most of the morning trying to plow through that with very little success. I finished a few tasks in the assignments, but was distracted by laundry and finally gave up around 10am and went to the City Centre to get groceries.
So, at City Centre I intended to just get the groceries and go home, but instead shopped for sunglasses since I recently determined that mine are all scratched and lacking in some style, though still good. So, I searched. I had searched before, but as I have a very flat face and high cheekbones, it is often difficult for me to find a pair of glasses that fit just right on my face. In other stores, I found that Armani and D&G glasses fit me relatively well with still some style to them. Though, the style I most like will NOT fit my face no matter how many pairs I try on.
I walked into a store. Tried a few on. The salesman was unusually less stalking or watching than other stores, so I felt comfortable to keep trying on different styles. He knew what would fit my face and gave me a few others to try on. I found a pair that worked. I held on to them as I tried on more. I kept going back to the pair in my hand to confirm I liked them and they fit. After looking at basically everything, I bought the pair in my hand. They are Giorgio Armani and they cost a pretty penny - never spent so much on a pair of sunglasses before, but I'm living on the edge. They aren't gaudy, but still somewhat stylish, I think. Maybe you'll get a photo of them on later!
After that, I tried to go to Starbucks to buy coffee beans. Forgetting that Ramadan had started, I found it eerie that all the food stalls including Starbucks were closed!!! So, I bought groceries and headed home.
In the evening, we went out to Thai food at the nearby Lemongrass restaurant near Lamcy Plaza. It was really good Thai food and since the sun had gone done, the Ramadan fast was broken for the day and people were out and about eating. We stopped in Lamcy Plaza again to look for some medicine and gifts before heading home. It was another early night for us, but I suppose it will make getting back to work easier!
Until next time,
-T
Sunday, August 31, 2008
Dubai Day 18
Ah, the time is flying.
Yesterday was my Ski Dubai day. It is an amazing experience to ski/snowboard in the middle of the desert. I almost forgot that it was actually hot outside. The Ski Dubai slope is located in the Mall of the Emirates, which is a 40 dirham taxi ride from Allan's apartment. (Can we say incentive to rent/buy a car??).
To ensure that I had the freedom to ski as long as I want, I bought a day pass and then signed up for Discovery snowboarding lessons (pre-beginner). With the day pass I was able to switch to snowboarding after a few hours of skiing. Now, the two-hour pass is 180AED. If you are a pretty good skiier, this is more than enough time. I skied for about 2.5 hours and made close to 30 - 40 runs. They claim to have 5 runs, but from what I could tell there were about three and short still, though challenging and long enough to work on form or race down the slope. Since I haven't skied in a year or so, it was really nice to be back on the snow again and I like just practicing form and style more than racing down, so it was worth it to pay for the day pass at 300AED (or $30US more).
After about 90 minutes, I took a 45-minute lunch break at the Avanlanche Cafe where they serve a mean hot chocolate, though I skipped the whip cream, M&Ms and marshmallow topping.
It was time to switch to the snowboard after that. So, I did a couple of runs on the shorter slope, but got tired since my last ski run had me biting it hard and my leg got sore.... Once I finished the second run on the board, I took a wee break and then went to meet up for the lesson. The lesson was 160AED for an hour. There were 4 others in my group and we did basic moves to get down the training slope. It wasn't so hard for me since I had boarded before, but it was good to remind myself of the basic skills required. If I were here a bit longer, I would go regularly and take the different lessons and I think I could actually board down the main slope after a couple more lessons. Still, it is hard, but I didn't fall hard on the board, which is amazing!
I could have gone again to keep boarding, but by then I had been on the slope for 4 hours and my ankles were sore from the boots, so I called it a day. Financially, it probably would have been cheaper to just have done the 2-hour pass and lesson, but hey now I know and I did have the freedom to go back if I had been up for it. I am getting old as I felt very sore and unable to move much once I got home. Then, I was out for the count before 10pm!
Yesterday was my Ski Dubai day. It is an amazing experience to ski/snowboard in the middle of the desert. I almost forgot that it was actually hot outside. The Ski Dubai slope is located in the Mall of the Emirates, which is a 40 dirham taxi ride from Allan's apartment. (Can we say incentive to rent/buy a car??).
To ensure that I had the freedom to ski as long as I want, I bought a day pass and then signed up for Discovery snowboarding lessons (pre-beginner). With the day pass I was able to switch to snowboarding after a few hours of skiing. Now, the two-hour pass is 180AED. If you are a pretty good skiier, this is more than enough time. I skied for about 2.5 hours and made close to 30 - 40 runs. They claim to have 5 runs, but from what I could tell there were about three and short still, though challenging and long enough to work on form or race down the slope. Since I haven't skied in a year or so, it was really nice to be back on the snow again and I like just practicing form and style more than racing down, so it was worth it to pay for the day pass at 300AED (or $30US more).
It was time to switch to the snowboard after that. So, I did a couple of runs on the shorter slope, but got tired since my last ski run had me biting it hard and my leg got sore.... Once I finished the second run on the board, I took a wee break and then went to meet up for the lesson. The lesson was 160AED for an hour. There were 4 others in my group and we did basic moves to get down the training slope. It wasn't so hard for me since I had boarded before, but it was good to remind myself of the basic skills required. If I were here a bit longer, I would go regularly and take the different lessons and I think I could actually board down the main slope after a couple more lessons. Still, it is hard, but I didn't fall hard on the board, which is amazing!
I could have gone again to keep boarding, but by then I had been on the slope for 4 hours and my ankles were sore from the boots, so I called it a day. Financially, it probably would have been cheaper to just have done the 2-hour pass and lesson, but hey now I know and I did have the freedom to go back if I had been up for it. I am getting old as I felt very sore and unable to move much once I got home. Then, I was out for the count before 10pm!
If I were to live here, I would be a regular on the slopes, though. For a couple of hours a day, I'd pay it! Rumor is that they are making an outside slope for the winter months. Should be interesting to see the ocean and desert while skiing!
Until next time,
-T
Until next time,
-T
Saturday, August 30, 2008
Dubai Day 17
:( Only 5 more days left....
Today was a lazy day of sleeping in, cleaning house, doing laundry and watching James Bond on the TV. I was quite tired after yesterday, so I took an afternoon nap.
Finally in the late afternoon, we made it out of the house. Allan was in search of a barber and so we walked to the Lamcy Plaza area - yes another shopping mall - and I looked around while he got his hair cut. It's a small mall, but nice to have close-by with a Starbucks, Daisou on the top floor, Coldstone Creamery (didn't have any though...) and other necessities for a quick mall fix.
We didn't stay too long and then moved to the Movenpick Hotel to watch the first half of a soccer game with a few drinks. I found it ironic that we went to a bar to watch soccer when it can be watched in Allan's living room. He claims it was just because it was on the way home. ;D
On the way home, we ordered a pizza for delivery from Papa John's and then watched another game at home. It was a relaxing evening and I was passing out by 9pm...sad, but true!
Until next time,
-T
Today was a lazy day of sleeping in, cleaning house, doing laundry and watching James Bond on the TV. I was quite tired after yesterday, so I took an afternoon nap.
Finally in the late afternoon, we made it out of the house. Allan was in search of a barber and so we walked to the Lamcy Plaza area - yes another shopping mall - and I looked around while he got his hair cut. It's a small mall, but nice to have close-by with a Starbucks, Daisou on the top floor, Coldstone Creamery (didn't have any though...) and other necessities for a quick mall fix.
We didn't stay too long and then moved to the Movenpick Hotel to watch the first half of a soccer game with a few drinks. I found it ironic that we went to a bar to watch soccer when it can be watched in Allan's living room. He claims it was just because it was on the way home. ;D
On the way home, we ordered a pizza for delivery from Papa John's and then watched another game at home. It was a relaxing evening and I was passing out by 9pm...sad, but true!
Until next time,
-T
Dubai Day 16
Once upon a time, a dude named Juha and his friend Sinbad got stranded on an island and the beautiful location seemed a great place to make an entertainment zone for people to come and enjoy the water rides they had created. Thus, is the condensed legend of Wild Wadi - Dubai's famous water park!
If it is too hot to do anything outside and the beach is still a bit too warm, what is one to do in Dubai? You can go skiing or if you don't ski, you can go to Wild Wadi. Since Allan doesn't ski and we had a whole day of fun ahead, it was time for the slides and rides.
The first ride we did after finding a place to drop our towels was hit the big rides. The first up was a 33 meter high slide called Jumeirah Sceirah. I was a bit nervous as we climbed up the stairs to the top and not knowing where the bottom was sort of freaked me out. However, once I began the descent and came to a very bumpy halt, I determined it wasn't that bad. Sadly, Allan got a bit of a skinned elbow since he didn't cross his arms quite enough on the way down.
If it is too hot to do anything outside and the beach is still a bit too warm, what is one to do in Dubai? You can go skiing or if you don't ski, you can go to Wild Wadi. Since Allan doesn't ski and we had a whole day of fun ahead, it was time for the slides and rides.
The first ride we did after finding a place to drop our towels was hit the big rides. The first up was a 33 meter high slide called Jumeirah Sceirah. I was a bit nervous as we climbed up the stairs to the top and not knowing where the bottom was sort of freaked me out. However, once I began the descent and came to a very bumpy halt, I determined it wasn't that bad. Sadly, Allan got a bit of a skinned elbow since he didn't cross his arms quite enough on the way down.
We then went on to enjoy the waves, intertube slide rides, body boarding zones and the view of the Burj Al Arab and Jumeirah Beach Hotel for the rest of the afternoon.
On the way, I got to get an upclose photo of the Burj Dubai - slated to be the world's tallest tower. It is still incomplete, but when it is done, I imagine it will be quite amazing.
After six hours at the water park, we headed home and got ready to go to a house-party in Sharjah of one of Allan's colleagues. She lives in a medium-sized villa, which means large house in my world! Amazing accommodations are provided here....
Anyway, thus the day in the water was ended.
Until next time,
-T
After six hours at the water park, we headed home and got ready to go to a house-party in Sharjah of one of Allan's colleagues. She lives in a medium-sized villa, which means large house in my world! Amazing accommodations are provided here....
Anyway, thus the day in the water was ended.
Until next time,
-T
Thursday, August 28, 2008
Dubai Day 15 (Week 3)
Sadly, I have no idea what I did all day. I did not leave the apartment, not even for the pool. I did shower around 1pm. I did watch Li Na beat Venus Williams in the quarterfinals of the Olympic tennis match with Arabic commentary. I did make spaghetti sauce. I did talk to J for a while. I did not work. I did not read. Oh, I did finish postcards that need to be mailed. Hm...
In the evening, we did go out. I wanted to check out the Bur Dubai Souk. Unfortunately, I did not take any pictures. Why? Because the taxi driver got us lost and we had to walk an extra 10 minutes and by the time we found the souk, I was hot and sweaty. Then, it wasn't very lively and we walked for ages through all the textiles, but I didn't need to buy any fabric that I could think of. So, by the time we found some jewelry places I only went in to cool down in the air conditioning. Since I am not much of a jewelry wearer or buyer, it wasn't so interesting. I am looking for gifts.... Another time. Finally, I called it quits and we headed for drinks at Waxy O'Connors, which was mercifully nearby as I had hoped in the Ascot Hotel.
So, we had a few drinks, danced a few dances, people watched and relaxed. It was a good time out despite the heated walk through the souks without any purchases and the lack of productivity of the day. As I have been told - I am on vacation, after all!
Until next time,
-T
In the evening, we did go out. I wanted to check out the Bur Dubai Souk. Unfortunately, I did not take any pictures. Why? Because the taxi driver got us lost and we had to walk an extra 10 minutes and by the time we found the souk, I was hot and sweaty. Then, it wasn't very lively and we walked for ages through all the textiles, but I didn't need to buy any fabric that I could think of. So, by the time we found some jewelry places I only went in to cool down in the air conditioning. Since I am not much of a jewelry wearer or buyer, it wasn't so interesting. I am looking for gifts.... Another time. Finally, I called it quits and we headed for drinks at Waxy O'Connors, which was mercifully nearby as I had hoped in the Ascot Hotel.
So, we had a few drinks, danced a few dances, people watched and relaxed. It was a good time out despite the heated walk through the souks without any purchases and the lack of productivity of the day. As I have been told - I am on vacation, after all!
Until next time,
-T
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Dubai Day 14
Today was my biggest day out and probably the last for the trip, but it was a good one.
After my run-in with the Emirati fellow the other day, I decided that doing a tour might not be a bad idea since it is $36 for a four hour tour. So, they arrived and two of us were taken around in a mini-van to see bits of Dubai.
We started with a stop at the Dubai Creek Dhow Wharfage to see the Dhow ships and bldgs lining the Creek on the Deira side. We were on the Bur Dubai side, which is the side I am staying on as well.
Then, we moved on to see the Dubai Museum, which used to be Al Fahidi Fort to defend Dubai on the sea. This was a small museum, but big enough for me. More pictures will be available back on my Photo Journeys section when I get back, but for now you can enjoy just a few.
We drove past the Bastakia, which is a historical neighborhood. I will have to go back at a cooler time to walk around. We also drove past the Bur Dubai souk and gold souk areas, where I want to drag Allan back to for an evening out since the locals seem to do their shopping at night and I want to see a local nightlife in action. I will bribe him with a nice place for drinks! :D
We went past a few neighborhoods with textiles, fish, wholesale cosmetics/bath items, where I think it would be fun to shop or know to shop if I were to live here. (Taking notes!)
Then, we were off to Jumeirah Road to see the Jumeirah Mosque, which is claimed to be the most beautiful, but not the largest. It seems to be the only mosque that visitors can enter on certain days. Further along the road, I saw another mosque and I thought was just as beautiful.
Along Jumeirah Road there are a lot of large villas where expats or rich Emiratis live. These residences are absolutely huge. The tour guide claimed that real Emiratis don't like to live in these kind of places.
We continued to see the Jumeirah beach and Burj Al Arab building - shaped like a sailboat. We passed the Jumeirah Beach Hotel, which was apparently the first 5-star hotel in Dubai and is shaped like a wave.
Then, we drove on to the Palm Jumeirah. From above, the shape of the construction in a palm tree. The residences on this island are going for about one million dollars for a 49-year lease contract. It is actually quite reasonable considering the fame and location of the place. This area of town is still under major construction. So, the office buildings are nearing finished and the island is nearing finished, but like much of Dubai, everything is under construction.
Finally, the trip ended with dropping me off at the Mall of Emirates where I had planned to ski, but decided to shop instead. I will probably try to go back for the skiing/snowboarding since the costs seemed better for longer, though the slope is small, so I wonder how much I can take. :D
After I finished wandering the mall, I headed to the Madinat Jumeirah to meet Allan and colleagues at a bar called Bahri Bar. It has a lovely view of the Burj Al Arab, but sadly my camera died and I still haven't worked out how to get my iPhone photos online yet. So, those may have to go with the other photos on my Photos Journey section when I return to my beloved Mac. ;D
Thus ends my big day out!
Until next time,
-T
After my run-in with the Emirati fellow the other day, I decided that doing a tour might not be a bad idea since it is $36 for a four hour tour. So, they arrived and two of us were taken around in a mini-van to see bits of Dubai.
We started with a stop at the Dubai Creek Dhow Wharfage to see the Dhow ships and bldgs lining the Creek on the Deira side. We were on the Bur Dubai side, which is the side I am staying on as well.
We drove past the Bastakia, which is a historical neighborhood. I will have to go back at a cooler time to walk around. We also drove past the Bur Dubai souk and gold souk areas, where I want to drag Allan back to for an evening out since the locals seem to do their shopping at night and I want to see a local nightlife in action. I will bribe him with a nice place for drinks! :D
We went past a few neighborhoods with textiles, fish, wholesale cosmetics/bath items, where I think it would be fun to shop or know to shop if I were to live here. (Taking notes!)
Then, we were off to Jumeirah Road to see the Jumeirah Mosque, which is claimed to be the most beautiful, but not the largest. It seems to be the only mosque that visitors can enter on certain days. Further along the road, I saw another mosque and I thought was just as beautiful.
Along Jumeirah Road there are a lot of large villas where expats or rich Emiratis live. These residences are absolutely huge. The tour guide claimed that real Emiratis don't like to live in these kind of places.
We continued to see the Jumeirah beach and Burj Al Arab building - shaped like a sailboat. We passed the Jumeirah Beach Hotel, which was apparently the first 5-star hotel in Dubai and is shaped like a wave.
Then, we drove on to the Palm Jumeirah. From above, the shape of the construction in a palm tree. The residences on this island are going for about one million dollars for a 49-year lease contract. It is actually quite reasonable considering the fame and location of the place. This area of town is still under major construction. So, the office buildings are nearing finished and the island is nearing finished, but like much of Dubai, everything is under construction.
Finally, the trip ended with dropping me off at the Mall of Emirates where I had planned to ski, but decided to shop instead. I will probably try to go back for the skiing/snowboarding since the costs seemed better for longer, though the slope is small, so I wonder how much I can take. :D
Thus ends my big day out!
Until next time,
-T
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
Dubai Day 13
True to the pattern I have been keeping, Tuesday was a pool/work day.
The morning was a bit lazy, I admit and I spent the usual working time before the pool updating my blog, emailing, etc. Sometimes these things must be done!
I enjoyed the pool and realized I am getting a good tan without having burned myself yet, so that is a bonus. Probably doesn't matter for the eventual skin cancer possibilities, but hey whatever.
After cleaning up, having lunch and settling in to get some work done, I decided to check my online courses to see what postings I needed to do for the week. It became clear to me that one of my courses had Tasks that should have been done last week for the first unit and I had no idea they even existed!!! WTF??? So, I frantically began working. Well, 4 hours later when Allan got home, I was still typing away with a headache and pure frustration at the system of NOT telling me that these assignments existed beforehand. Luckily, I finished shortly thereafter, took a bit of a rest and tried to calm myself. Now, I seem to be ahead of the game and know what I am suppose to do. So, I guess at least I didn't go the whole course clueless. ;D
Allan's Showtime TV setup saga continues. It's a long story, but he still doesn't have TV connected and it has been a bit of a stressful event with that. After finding out that they still weren't coming out, we decided we needed to get out of the apartment. So, we went to Carter's in the Wafi Center for a few drinks and snacks. It was definitely nice to get out, have a few drinks and try to forget about the stresses in our lives.
The pains of settling in to a new apartment, new job and all within a new country takes a toll. It's a wonder that we continue the jobs that we do, but at the same time, the stress from the new-ness and change is only temporary until other ones take over! So, that was the day.
Wednesday promises to be much more interesting!
Until next time,
-T
The morning was a bit lazy, I admit and I spent the usual working time before the pool updating my blog, emailing, etc. Sometimes these things must be done!
I enjoyed the pool and realized I am getting a good tan without having burned myself yet, so that is a bonus. Probably doesn't matter for the eventual skin cancer possibilities, but hey whatever.
After cleaning up, having lunch and settling in to get some work done, I decided to check my online courses to see what postings I needed to do for the week. It became clear to me that one of my courses had Tasks that should have been done last week for the first unit and I had no idea they even existed!!! WTF??? So, I frantically began working. Well, 4 hours later when Allan got home, I was still typing away with a headache and pure frustration at the system of NOT telling me that these assignments existed beforehand. Luckily, I finished shortly thereafter, took a bit of a rest and tried to calm myself. Now, I seem to be ahead of the game and know what I am suppose to do. So, I guess at least I didn't go the whole course clueless. ;D
Allan's Showtime TV setup saga continues. It's a long story, but he still doesn't have TV connected and it has been a bit of a stressful event with that. After finding out that they still weren't coming out, we decided we needed to get out of the apartment. So, we went to Carter's in the Wafi Center for a few drinks and snacks. It was definitely nice to get out, have a few drinks and try to forget about the stresses in our lives.
The pains of settling in to a new apartment, new job and all within a new country takes a toll. It's a wonder that we continue the jobs that we do, but at the same time, the stress from the new-ness and change is only temporary until other ones take over! So, that was the day.
Wednesday promises to be much more interesting!
Until next time,
-T
Monday, August 25, 2008
Dubai Day 12
It seems that every other day I get out and try to do something....
Monday, I made up my mind to see some souks (markets) on my own. Not too far away from Oud Metha Rd, where I am staying, is an area of town called Karama. The travel book mentioned a section of town with lots of shops for tourists and locals, so I thought it sounded like an interesting venture out.
Setting out by 10am when shops are meant to be open in the morning, I easily snagged a taxi and arrived in a short 5 - 10 minutes. The taxi driver dropped me off in the middle of a 5-block shopping area, which is like a strip mall only smaller. There were a lot of clothing items for sale with a few touristy-type stores, where I did manage to buy a few gifts for people. It must have been far too early for locals to be up as the only people I saw were the shop attendants trying to get me to go in their stores and other crazy tourists like me. As I wasn't looking for knock-off clothes, bags or sunglasses, I wasn't their ideal client. Still, I was enjoying the walk through until...
I was nearing the end and thinking about going to another section of town where they have a gold souk and other highlights, when a man came up behind me quickly and said "Excuse me". I went to the left of the walkway since it was easier and as he passed he said, "No, it's the right side". I simply said, "Sorry" and let him carry on. He appeared to be going to his car, so I continued on and stepped into a shop. About a minute later, the same man entered the shop as well and seemed to know the shop clerk. It made me a bit suspicious, but I ignored him and continued looking at the item I wanted to purchase. The man pretended to look at some other things and sort of got in my way, but I ignored him. After about 5-minutes, he took his leave and I happily finished my purchase. When I left the store, I saw the man standing outside, but I continued to ignore him and completed my circuit through the shops and began considering what to do next.
I knew there was a larger mall in the area or I could try the other part of town. So, I began to look for a cab. As I stopped to ask one, the driver shook his head that he wasn't available. I crossed the street and a white car came up beside me with the man from before inside. He said, "Get in, where do you want to go? I'll take you wherever you want to go." WTF?? I thought and politely refused, continuing to look for a real taxi. He followed me along the road trying to get me to get in his car, but thankfully there were cars lining the street keeping him away from me on the sidewalk. I looked for a store to jump in to if necessary and slowed down ignoring him. Finally, he left saying "I'll be seeing you." So, feeling flustered and irritated that he had disturbed my adventure, I quickly got a cab and had him take me to the BurJuman mall.
While it wasn't my plan to visit another mall and I did want to see more of the local sites, I enjoyed just walking around this mall. It had more style and ambience than the other malls I have seen so far. So, it wasn't a total waste of the day or experience. The BurJuman was quiet with very few people, higher-end stores (Saks), and interesting design.
In the middle of the mall was a model of the city of Dubai with a night-scape setup. So, I got a land and aerial view.
Still, I made a couple of realizations: 1) There are very few women outside walking alone during the day - a. there are just very few women out and b. if they are out they are generally with another woman or a man. 2) People basically do not do much shopping in the mornings, so for a real non-mall shopping experience, it is better to go out at night.
Thus, ends my adventure in Karama. Tomorrow will probably be another pool day and work day. ;D
Until next time,
-T
Monday, I made up my mind to see some souks (markets) on my own. Not too far away from Oud Metha Rd, where I am staying, is an area of town called Karama. The travel book mentioned a section of town with lots of shops for tourists and locals, so I thought it sounded like an interesting venture out.
Setting out by 10am when shops are meant to be open in the morning, I easily snagged a taxi and arrived in a short 5 - 10 minutes. The taxi driver dropped me off in the middle of a 5-block shopping area, which is like a strip mall only smaller. There were a lot of clothing items for sale with a few touristy-type stores, where I did manage to buy a few gifts for people. It must have been far too early for locals to be up as the only people I saw were the shop attendants trying to get me to go in their stores and other crazy tourists like me. As I wasn't looking for knock-off clothes, bags or sunglasses, I wasn't their ideal client. Still, I was enjoying the walk through until...
I was nearing the end and thinking about going to another section of town where they have a gold souk and other highlights, when a man came up behind me quickly and said "Excuse me". I went to the left of the walkway since it was easier and as he passed he said, "No, it's the right side". I simply said, "Sorry" and let him carry on. He appeared to be going to his car, so I continued on and stepped into a shop. About a minute later, the same man entered the shop as well and seemed to know the shop clerk. It made me a bit suspicious, but I ignored him and continued looking at the item I wanted to purchase. The man pretended to look at some other things and sort of got in my way, but I ignored him. After about 5-minutes, he took his leave and I happily finished my purchase. When I left the store, I saw the man standing outside, but I continued to ignore him and completed my circuit through the shops and began considering what to do next.
I knew there was a larger mall in the area or I could try the other part of town. So, I began to look for a cab. As I stopped to ask one, the driver shook his head that he wasn't available. I crossed the street and a white car came up beside me with the man from before inside. He said, "Get in, where do you want to go? I'll take you wherever you want to go." WTF?? I thought and politely refused, continuing to look for a real taxi. He followed me along the road trying to get me to get in his car, but thankfully there were cars lining the street keeping him away from me on the sidewalk. I looked for a store to jump in to if necessary and slowed down ignoring him. Finally, he left saying "I'll be seeing you." So, feeling flustered and irritated that he had disturbed my adventure, I quickly got a cab and had him take me to the BurJuman mall.
While it wasn't my plan to visit another mall and I did want to see more of the local sites, I enjoyed just walking around this mall. It had more style and ambience than the other malls I have seen so far. So, it wasn't a total waste of the day or experience. The BurJuman was quiet with very few people, higher-end stores (Saks), and interesting design.
In the middle of the mall was a model of the city of Dubai with a night-scape setup. So, I got a land and aerial view.
Still, I made a couple of realizations: 1) There are very few women outside walking alone during the day - a. there are just very few women out and b. if they are out they are generally with another woman or a man. 2) People basically do not do much shopping in the mornings, so for a real non-mall shopping experience, it is better to go out at night.
Thus, ends my adventure in Karama. Tomorrow will probably be another pool day and work day. ;D
Until next time,
-T
Dubai Day 11
It is still weird to think of Sunday as the start of the work week, so I pretended it was still the weekend and decided to do nothing in particular. In fact, I have learned to sleep in a bit (though still up by 7am).
After a short hour and a half at the pool side, I did a full sweep of the house and tried to do some household things that I might do at home on a Sunday or Saturday. Strange, but true. Then, I enjoyed the afternoon on the internet just checking stuff here and there and avoiding any thoughts of work. he he he.
In the evening, we decided to join Pam (another colleague of Allan's) on a car ride to the Deira City Centre again. I swear this place is going to be the bane of anyone's existence if you live in this area, just because it is always crowded and seems to be the place to go for anything. Since we had forgotten to do a couple of things there the day before, we thought it was a good chance to do that and to get an iron since Allan's travel iron seems to have died - not from overuse, let me be sure to point out!
Since driving is a new experience still for everyone, we got a bit lost in trying to ensure that we did not end up in Sharjah and a two hour detour trying to get back. Instead, it took us nearly an hour to get there when it should have only taken about 15 minutes tops! oops! We had fun anyway...well, I did. We only managed to get the iron - good for me. Struck out on getting the wireless kit for the surround sound system and trying to upgrade the internet to wireless (why did the man not listen to me from the beginning???). Oh well... it was a way for me to get out of the house, experience more of the city and convince me that despite the crazy crowds during rush hour, I do believe I can drive in this city. I admit I would still get lost and road rage could become an issue.... :P
Until next time,
-T
After a short hour and a half at the pool side, I did a full sweep of the house and tried to do some household things that I might do at home on a Sunday or Saturday. Strange, but true. Then, I enjoyed the afternoon on the internet just checking stuff here and there and avoiding any thoughts of work. he he he.
In the evening, we decided to join Pam (another colleague of Allan's) on a car ride to the Deira City Centre again. I swear this place is going to be the bane of anyone's existence if you live in this area, just because it is always crowded and seems to be the place to go for anything. Since we had forgotten to do a couple of things there the day before, we thought it was a good chance to do that and to get an iron since Allan's travel iron seems to have died - not from overuse, let me be sure to point out!
Since driving is a new experience still for everyone, we got a bit lost in trying to ensure that we did not end up in Sharjah and a two hour detour trying to get back. Instead, it took us nearly an hour to get there when it should have only taken about 15 minutes tops! oops! We had fun anyway...well, I did. We only managed to get the iron - good for me. Struck out on getting the wireless kit for the surround sound system and trying to upgrade the internet to wireless (why did the man not listen to me from the beginning???). Oh well... it was a way for me to get out of the house, experience more of the city and convince me that despite the crazy crowds during rush hour, I do believe I can drive in this city. I admit I would still get lost and road rage could become an issue.... :P
Until next time,
-T
Saturday, August 23, 2008
Dubai Day 10
I just realized I cut Day 9's events a bit short. I was so excited and long-winded about the alcohol purchasing that I forgot the evening activities! oops!
Day 9 Evening
After getting back mid-afternoon, we relaxed before heading out to The Boardwalk, which is a nice restaurant at the Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club. It is shaped like a boat. So, we had a couple of very tasty appetizers and a nice bottle of white.
Since it was one of Allan's new colleague's birthday, we headed to the Irish Village for more drinking and socializing. A few more glasses of wine and I was a goner...luckily we managed to find our way home despite the poor new taxi driver's claim that he had no idea where we were going. ha ha ha.
Now Day 10:
After a nice sleep-in, we decided to try to catch a film and then do some shopping before getting back in time to watch some soccer. So, we taxied it to the Deira City Centre mall (again) and saw "Tropic Thunder". While I am generally not a comedy watcher, I enjoyed this silly film. Not so sure it was worth the money to see it on the big screen, but it was a good laugh with big names and some surprising appearances. If you are a comedy lover, then I would definitely recommend this film.
The next stop was Carrefour. We asked about the stereo surround system and connecting it to the cable TV (long sordid affair) and so technicians will be out on Monday to hopefully make everyone a happy camper. Then, it was shopping. Shopping on a Saturday (aka Sunday) is crazy! It is much like Japan where people shop at the same time of day or same day of the week because that is when it can be done. While it was very efficient and there is a learned method to the madness; it is an experience. Trying to take a taxi was crazy as well, but again the efficiency was impressive. So, we were back with a half hour to spare before kick-off.
Shopping called for a drink of not-so-tasty red wine in a smoke-smelly bar during the game, but it was a good game of Liverpool vs. Middlebrough (it is meant to be spelled that way!). So, it was a nice end to the very short weekend.
Now it is back to the work week and I need to start deciding what all I want to be sure I see this trip. It can't all be just malls, can it??? ;D hm....
Until next time...
-T
Day 9 Evening
After getting back mid-afternoon, we relaxed before heading out to The Boardwalk, which is a nice restaurant at the Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club. It is shaped like a boat. So, we had a couple of very tasty appetizers and a nice bottle of white.
Since it was one of Allan's new colleague's birthday, we headed to the Irish Village for more drinking and socializing. A few more glasses of wine and I was a goner...luckily we managed to find our way home despite the poor new taxi driver's claim that he had no idea where we were going. ha ha ha.
Now Day 10:
After a nice sleep-in, we decided to try to catch a film and then do some shopping before getting back in time to watch some soccer. So, we taxied it to the Deira City Centre mall (again) and saw "Tropic Thunder". While I am generally not a comedy watcher, I enjoyed this silly film. Not so sure it was worth the money to see it on the big screen, but it was a good laugh with big names and some surprising appearances. If you are a comedy lover, then I would definitely recommend this film.
The next stop was Carrefour. We asked about the stereo surround system and connecting it to the cable TV (long sordid affair) and so technicians will be out on Monday to hopefully make everyone a happy camper. Then, it was shopping. Shopping on a Saturday (aka Sunday) is crazy! It is much like Japan where people shop at the same time of day or same day of the week because that is when it can be done. While it was very efficient and there is a learned method to the madness; it is an experience. Trying to take a taxi was crazy as well, but again the efficiency was impressive. So, we were back with a half hour to spare before kick-off.
Shopping called for a drink of not-so-tasty red wine in a smoke-smelly bar during the game, but it was a good game of Liverpool vs. Middlebrough (it is meant to be spelled that way!). So, it was a nice end to the very short weekend.
Now it is back to the work week and I need to start deciding what all I want to be sure I see this trip. It can't all be just malls, can it??? ;D hm....
Until next time...
-T
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