Dubai, United Arab Emirates - Day 1 of 2

Arrived in Dubai in the afternoon and we didn’t rush out because we’ve been here before and we were attending a special Around the World (ATW) event and would be heading out around 4 pm for an evening in the dunes. The invitation had included details about the event including notice that we’d be sitting on cushions on carpets in the desert in traditional Arabian style. Needless to say, not an evening for me to wear a dress. 😉

We gathered in the Insignia Lounge just after 4pm and awaited instructions regarding our transportation to the the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve for sundowners and a falcon show. We were surprised and delighted to see a parking lot full of numbered four wheel drive vehicles awaiting. I believe there were 95?!? The convoy headed to the desert.

Once we arrived, there was bubbly, wine and beer flowing freely and middle eastern nibbles like dates and apricots being passed around as we watched the sun set. Idyllic. Once the sun fell below the horizon we were treated to a mesmerizing falcon show. When the show ended, we had the opportunity to hold and pet the falcon, an opportunity I simply couldn’t miss! Such a cool experience.

We then got back in the vehicles and set off for a camp site for a traditional Arabic dinner including mezze appetizers, middle eastern salads, lamb kofta, kebabs, beef tagine and various sides and desserts. Dinner entertainment included oud and tabla music as well as Tanoura dancing, (a whirling dance performed by men) and belly dancing. You could also have your hand henna-ed.

Once again, Oceania provided us with an experience we’ll never forget.Read more