Category Archives: UAE Mini escapes

Middle East, Sharjah, UAE, UAE Mini escapes

Mini Escapes – Sharjah

1 Comment

This entry is the result of different trips through this region of the United Arab Emirates. Although there is much more that can be done within this emirate, especially if you like museums or archaeological sites, I did not visit those, and before I left, it was getting too hot to be out in the sand!

One of the places that I visited was the ghost town of Al Madam. There are 2 rows of houses just south of the town of Al Madam, which were built most likely in the 1960s or 1970s by the government. From what I was able to learn, these houses (and mosque) were likely built when the government was trying to get the Bedouin tribes to settle in one location and change their nomadic ways. The houses, if inhabited at all, were not inhabited for long. Legend has it that the djinns (genies or spirits) disturbed the residents and they left due to the paranormal activity. Others believe that it was simply the sand that has been encroaching, and now covers some of the houses completely, that forced the move. Regardless of the reason, you can drive to this deserted area (with a 4×4), or park and walk the remainder (which is what I had to do, so as not to get stuck in the sand). Since it was already the end of June by the time that we could go,  we left early in the morning to beat the heat (which, by 9-10 am was becoming unbearable). If you want to go, follow the Google Maps link to the Old area of Madam, of the industrial road, and then drive as far as you like on the sand. Continue reading Mini Escapes – Sharjah →

Abu Dhabi, UAE, UAE Mini escapes

Mini Escapes – Abu Dhabi (city)

Leave a comment

Cruising through the desert on the E11 at 140 km/h, it only takes a mere 1-1.5 hours drive to get from Dubai to Abu Dhabi (city). Often a little more conservative and quieter than Dubai, Abu Dhabi still has many attractions to visit, from theme parks to museums and the glittering palaces. (This is a compilation of several trips over the last few years)

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

IMG_9161

This mosque was completed in 2007, and was inspired by Sheikh Zayed’s desire to combine different styles of Islamic architecture. It is one of the largest (if not the largest) mosques in the world, and allows visitors freely. (*The mosque, as are all mosques, is currently closed due to COVID-19). Continue reading Mini Escapes – Abu Dhabi (city) →

Dubai, Middle East, UAE, UAE Mini escapes

Mini Escapes Volume 1

1 Comment

IMG-2453

At the beginning of this school year, I made a promise to myself to explore Dubai and the surrounding areas more. I also decided that I might as well drive in style, in a leased 2018 Mini Cooper Countryman 🙂 I must admit, it was purely because I wanted to drive a mini that I splurged, but I absolutely LOVE driving it! Follow me now on my adventures of everywhere the Mini can take me in the UAE (I can’t drive it out of the country). In this first edition, we will be looking at different events and places that I have been within the Dubai Emirate.

Activities

To start us off, I decided to try Glow in the Dark 3D mini golf for my birthday at the end of August. This was a blast, and so trippy! If you wear neon, you will be sure to glow in the dark. We discovered that my shirt also gave a 3D illusion, with greens and blues receding and yellows and reds jumping out to the front. The Glowing Rooms Dubai

Another fun option, once the weather starts to cool down, is a cruise along the waterfront. It was a friend’s birthday, so a group of about 15 of us pooled together to rent a yacht (complete with captain and crew) for a 2-hour cruise from Dubai Marina, along JBR towards the Palm. After reaching Atlantis, we turned back to enjoy the sunset before stopping for a swim. Unfortunately, at this time of year (September) there are a lot of jellyfish in the water, and I was not taking my chances!

Another thing that I am trying to do this year is to meet people outside the teaching world, by going to InterNations events. The first one I attended this year was the InterNations birthday party on the Queen Elizabeth 2. This was not one of my favourite events, as there were too many people and not enough space. The ship itself was also not as fancy as I was expecting, but it was really interesting to learn about the history of the ship.

Spas and Relaxation

Another fun feature of Dubai is all the hotels and spas. Using a 2-4-1 coupon (Gems Rewards, similar to the Entertainer), I decided to treat myself to a Turkish bath at the Anantara Resort and Spa on the Palm. It was lovely! I highly recommend treating yourself to this or any other treatment using these offers.

IMG-2536

As many people discover, Dubai is an expensive city. However, this is not always the case. In a future post, I will highlight some of the free activities that you can do here in Dubai!