Al Ain

After we had left Dubai behind, the landscape turned into a desert of sand dunes. We've never seen it like this before
but the continuous hum of traffic (there are only a few highways crossing the desert) made it less idyllic. And meanwhile, 'dune bashing' with motorbikes, quads and other vehicles became so popular that you can hardly spot an area without tire tracks.

We had not that much luck these days: Our try to get on a less frequented road failed because we were not allowed to continue at an Omani border checkpoint, the road was for locals only. Two flat tires followed and Hauke's cold got worse. But Al-Ain should become our oasis, for relaxation and cure :)

As cyclists, we enjoyed a preferential treatment in a 5* hotel and received a suite, enjoyed the rooftop pool, sauna, jacuzzi and took time to explore the Al-Ain oasis in the heart of the city, an UNESCO site. The cleverly designed irrigation system, the lush green and the tweet of the birds are impressive and made it easy to imagine being in a tropical paradise.

Then we're ready for Oman!Read more