It's been a challenging year so far what with Jennifer's dad requiring considerable care and attention, however he has outlived the Doctor's expectations and keeps on going. However it's been tiring for both of us as we have also been arranging the Resident Party which took place on the 30th June.
The party was a great success but spoiled by the poor weather, rain and more rain .
We decided we needed a break and some sun. To tow the caravan to the sun, in the South of France, would take perhaps 3/4 days each way and only allow a few days on site and it would be difficult should we find it necessary to come home quickly. So after a very quick Board Meeting we decided to go to the Jebel Ali Hotel in Dubai for 10 days. We know that the weather will be hot and sunny but also that we can get back quickly if need be.
And so a quick trip on Virgin Atlantic was great, we got some good seats near the pilot on the way down, but near the wings on the way back. We spent most of the time, sunbathing, book reading and swimming. We also visited a couple of the very large and comfortable Malls for a small bit of shopping and also to give us a bit of time away from the heat. Neither of us wanted to burn and so we took precautions by slapping on the sun tan lotion. There were quite a few Brits at the Hotel who seemed to spend the complete day laying in the sun, not good at this location as it can start many skin problems later on. Oh well it keeps the NHS busy.
We also met with some of Noel's ex colleagues for dinner and lunches which was great, most enjoyable.
We did not take too many photos this time as we have visited this Hotel and Town several times before and there is no point in repeating.
Dubai has grown like crazy since we were last there in 2004, major building everywhere including construction of the tallest building in the world, number of stories not confirmed due to secrecy. The Emirates Mall, the largest outside North America, has a huge skiing area, yep that's right skiing and SNOW.
For a detailed report visit SKIDUBAI. To see the Arabs enjoying snow fights and skiing etc when it's 42 degrees outside whilst below 0 C inside was quite amazing .
We are back home now and hoping that we can start on our house development so that we can finish in time for Christmas.
Well that's the latest news from us and all the photos are on the photo BLOG
