…was my first stop. The Westernized coffee shop found right inside of the Abu Dhabi mall, shortly after my arrival at the Beach Rotana hotel. So quickly after receiving my luggage from the bellhop did I run to the nearest internet café that it wasn't until after I had settled in for the night that I realized: a) there are two toilets, b) the accommodations are luxurious, and c) the people, the places, and the city… are not my own.
Abu Dhabi has its own swagger. One that says "it's perfectly OK for everyone to be covered here from head to toe in light, fine linens – because here in the UAE we frequent Tiffany, Cartier, Bulgari, Gucci, and Burberry." There are no Samanthas or Carrie Bradshaws here discussing their loves and lives over dessert, as the majority of the mall restaurants are filled with groups of men and young boys, smoking and speaking in a rough whisper. I haven't gone far just yet, but judging by the clothes on the mannequins in the Abu Dhabi mall – this should be interesting.
I haven't done much. It's just after 6.am on Sunday (I think) and my Friday/Saturday was filled with last minute packing, flying, in-flight movies, free red wine, getting mini food poisonings TWICE, making quick friends, having my retina scanned by AD's security, work visas, passports, scanning carry-on luggage, wondering what customs had taken while I wasn't looking, and LOTS and lots of Tylenol.
Orientation begins in a few hours and I have slated to wear jeans, sandals, and a shirt that comes down past my thighs with shoulders covered. Check. I want nothing more than to hop on Facebook/Twitter to chat and reply to blessings and messages from loved ones… or to jump on my video phone/Skype with close friends…. I wonder what the children are like, and if I brought enough school supplies.
I'm positive that I'll survive (I mean, have you met my mother) – but ultimately, I hope that my stay is pleasant. I hope my family and friends take advantage of my new home which lies across the World and make plans to visit. I hope the novelty of my being gone doesn't wear off too quickly, and I can always come home to a voice and/or email.
For those of you who are reading this and on your way soon: we'll be fine – I saw a Steve Madden and a Nine West in the mall. J
Cheers!
Well... I might be stalking you just a little, but I have to believe you'll appreciate it in moments of loneliness :) I'm glad you made it safely! If you have a couch for me to crash on, I'd love to visit!! Just need to save a couple thousand to get over there... hmm.
ReplyDeleteI'm so happy for you. You are totally living my dream!! You will be fine and I'm sure the kids will be great. What grade/age-level will you be teaching?
ReplyDeleteGlad your safe Shaq....I want to see picks. Take pics of the mannequins too! This is a once in a life time experience....live it up. Ill be looking for you on skype :)
ReplyDelete@Denise -- save that money honey! I will have a two bedroom, so you can sleep in the guest room! Stalking will make my heart happy in the hours of need! You are right, lol.
ReplyDelete@Charlette - thank you so much dear! You'll be here soon, I know it. Its too early to know much about the school or the level of the girls -- but I will keep you informed!
@Amber - I need a new camera! But the Blackberry and I are working it out... Lol, its 3.2 megapixals. If I'm online I'm on SKYPE - I forgot you all had gmail! You can follow me :)
Love your blog, look forward to reading it while you are gone. Be safe. :)
ReplyDeleteHey You! I am just know catching up. I read both posts! You seem happy & well cared for. Keep the open mind you have attained. Continue to look on this experience with respect & awe. I have lots of your children from last year...and we all miss you! Take care chica!
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