tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31455264623232944862024-03-14T01:29:30.067-07:00Una nomade nel mondo"I liguri sono di due categorie: quelli attaccati ai propri luoghi come patelle allo scoglio che non riusciresti mai a spostarli; e quelli che per casa hanno il mondo e dovunque siano si trovano come a casa loro. Ma anche i secondi, e io sono dei secondi, tornano regolarmente a casa, restano attaccati al loro paese non meno dei primi." (Italo Calvino)A nomadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02455429151344355570noreply@blogger.comBlogger221125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3145526462323294486.post-28321351237663911442017-11-03T09:27:00.003-07:002017-11-03T09:46:18.865-07:00My first solo camping - Dibba, UAE<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I have a first row seat in front of Snoopy Island. The weather is perfect, no need to set up a fire. There are enough flames around me. My supper is bread, salame and mortadella. Why spend time and energy wasting the wood and accelerator liquid, I went through so much trouble to retrieve (that needs a blog by itself).<br />
<br />
As I am diving with some friends in Dibba at 9 am on a Saturday morning, a good 3.5h from my flat in Abu Dhabi, I decided to drive up on Friday. Camping was a no brainer. I jumped at the idea of camping solo. A very welcome first. I was just a little bit apprehensive about safety but I decided to check the beach out and if needed, sleep in my car.<br />
<br />
After a lazy Friday morning, still recovering from 17km endurance run on Thursday evening, I make my way to my partner's in crime place for a catch up and a bite.<br />
<br />
At almost 3 pm, after we eat, catch up, have an argument with IKEA delivery (seriously...), and set up her wireless earphones (hurray!! She is hopeless when it comes to IT) I take off to Dibba.<br />
<br />
LESSON N.1: Make sure you check when it gets dark and plan your trip accordingly. Even if I have considerable experience with tents. Even if I have my head lamp with. Setting up the tent was a nightmare. Result: the most hideous standing tent I have ever seen. I actually feel embarrassed.<br />
<br />
LESSON N.2: When you are not bbq'ing you do not need to carry useless coal....ehmmm yes true.... I was just sooooo excited.....camping means fire, and coal....oh well.<br />
<br />
To be honest I had romanticized the idea of camping solo a little... I pictured myself sitting on a semi deserted beach, gazing at the horizon, the sound of the waves playing background music, with a glass of Malbec disguised in a vulgar paper cup.... Instead I am surrounded by loud white people, playing a cacophony of sounds on their music devices.....while the Arabs are on the road nearby, racing. Not the background music I was expecting....<br />
<br />
Oh well....I am here. My tummy is full. My flask of Malbec is empty. The tent is calling.<br />
<br /></div>
A nomadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02455429151344355570noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3145526462323294486.post-44493428934596340332017-03-30T08:28:00.000-07:002017-11-03T14:48:56.938-07:00Diary of a wanna-be marathoner (Episode 2): Rome 2017, leaving for Rome<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Tomorrow
my comrades and I are leaving for Rome to attempt the 2017 marathon. This is not
how I pictured my very first marathon to be.</div>
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<br /></div>
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Running
a marathon has always been in the back of my mind.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However, it has always been a “one day" kinda
project. Then life happens and you think that the best remedy for a heartbreak
is to jump straight into a marathon. Training, and planning for the training
will keep you busy, you won’t delve into the “what ifs” or “maybes”. The cherry
on the cake is that you are nursing a breakup by doing something healthy (old
me would have jumped straight into food, alcohol and cigarettes…to numb the
sadness).</div>
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<br /></div>
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Add
to that you take advantage of a period when you feel physically good: you are
fresh from a good year jumping from WOD to WOD, running 5 k here and there…
completed a half marathon strong….. and you believe that any potential leg or
general pain will be a 100 times better than the pains of the heart… You make
an impromptu decision and convince your friend that 12 weeks of training are enough. After
all we just want to finish it, no PB.</div>
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<br /></div>
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6
weeks into the training I get a reality call: no crossfit or WOD prepares your
body for the strains of a marathon. Running is a different ball game! My body
collapses. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Even if I had adhered to a
well-grounded programme, which gradually increased the distances, I get exposed
to all the injuries in the book of runners: ITB, shin splints, micro fractures
and compartmental syndrome. Doctors, some friends and family become all of a
sudden running experts: “you did too much, too quickly, marathons are wrong,
your mobility sucks, your flexibility is not existent, you didn’t foam roll
enough…. YOU ARE STUPID”… As if I was not sad and angry enough.</div>
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<br /></div>
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Over
the next few weeks however, I keep on going only thanks to the help of the
precious friends, and specialists that I am privileged to be surrounded by and
have access to: chiropractors, kinesiologists, orthopaedics, sport therapists,
physiotherapists, trigger massage therapists, Cryo … Most important of all,
what kept me from losing hope and getting depressed was the constant motivation
by many (take my fellow marathoner Ahmed whose will power is scaringly strong
and who said we won’t leave Rome without three medals, and he ain’t kidding) as
well as those who kept incessantly reminding me<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>that:</div>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>it is ok if I have to walk-run it. </li>
<li><span style="font-family: "symbol";">i</span>t is ok if it takes me 7 hours to complete it. </li>
<li>it is ok if I decide not to do it all.</li>
<li>it is all ok!!</li>
</ul>
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<br /></div>
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I
honestly do not know how Sunday will unveil itself. Which scenario will
prevail. What I know however, is that just like everything else in my life, the
marathon has been all about the journey. A journey where:</div>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>I learned so much about my body. What it can do,
what it can’t do (now).</li>
<li>I became kinder to myself and more accepting of
my current limitations. Limitations that come with age… I was reminded how I
shouldn’t compare my progress to anybody. Even if I think I am on the same page
as others (because we train together, or our bodies are somewhat similar). I
might be comparing my chapter 10 to their chapter 15.</li>
<li>I was reminded of the power of will. Sunday will
be a big test for me but over the past months I have seen the manifestation of
will on others. I have witnessed the epic achievements of some of my friends
who really truly believed in themselves. I feel it would be a disrespect to
them and their will if I didn’t give it my all on Sunday.</li>
<li>I was reminded of the power of friendship and
how important it is to just let go of those people who do not make you happy.
Keep close those people who believe in your even when you could not believe
in<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>you.</li>
</ul>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
Rome,
I am coming for you. No matter what Sunday is holding for me, I will enjoy this
trip. I will hug my family and my friends who are coming from all corners to
see and support me (I love you so much!). I will inhale every bit of the greatness
that the eternal city has to offer. I cannot wait to show my friends from the
UAE and the UK a city, Rome, though my eyes…. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Roma, stiamo arrivando!</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
</div>
A nomadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02455429151344355570noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3145526462323294486.post-30452791012573548392017-02-14T23:46:00.001-08:002017-03-24T23:43:42.082-07:00Diary of a wanna-be marathoner (Episode 1): Rome 2017, how it all started<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Typical me….</div>
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… to throw myself into new crazy adventures. Sometimes without thinking. Too often without hesitating. </div>
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At the very end of 2016, filled with sadness, angst, and anxiety over too many things going wrong in my personal (family, friends, and sentimental) life, I decided that what better way “not think about things” than making myself so busy and so tired that I have no time or energy to worry and think about sad things?* That is when I reached out to my equally crazy friends in Abu Dhabi and told them we are signing up for the 2017 Rome marathon to be held in the eternal city <a dir="ltr" href="x-apple-data-detectors://0" style="-webkit-text-decoration-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.258824); color: black;" x-apple-data-detectors-result="0" x-apple-data-detectors-type="calendar-event" x-apple-data-detectors="true">on April 2</a><sup><a dir="ltr" href="x-apple-data-detectors://0" style="-webkit-text-decoration-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.258824); color: black;" x-apple-data-detectors-result="0" x-apple-data-detectors-type="calendar-event" x-apple-data-detectors="true">nd</a></sup><a dir="ltr" href="x-apple-data-detectors://0" style="-webkit-text-decoration-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.258824); color: black;" x-apple-data-detectors-result="0" x-apple-data-detectors-type="calendar-event" x-apple-data-detectors="true">.</a> A little over 14 weeks away. They heard the badly disguised cry for help in my tone. They did not hesitate (they are my Tribe). They said yes.</div>
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The thought of running a marathon had titillated the minds of my immediate circle of fit-friends for quite some time before such resolution. We contemplated China’s wall marathon, Paris, Lisbon, even Medoc (check this one out!). However, very well aware of the level of commitment and sacrifices needed for such epic endeavor (Dr. Reem one of these crazy friend had done one, so she KNOWS) we had wisely decided to relegate such a quest to 2018. However, when a tribe member throws a cry for help, her people come to rescue. So, two of my special people said no problem. We are in! I did lose one on the way due to injury but gained another one (probably the craziest of us all as I am still waiting to hear about his runs….of which there are no signs….).</div>
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So here we go! We register for the event and get plane tickets (to make sure there is no going back!). We draft a plan, make life and diet adjustments. Organise, work, social life, and EVERYTHING around mileage, cross training, recovery…etc. Dr. Reem also happens to have a husband and two jewels to nurture (not sure what she is on to manage this all, but I want some). Then I realise, the plan works! I am so busy with and tired from running, packing, unpacking, washing gym gear, training, planning (for the running, the packing, the unpacking, the washing, the training) that when I have some rare free or alone time, I am either dreaming about Rome or I am so tired that I collapse and sleep. No time to be sad! Whoop Whoop goal achieved. </div>
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Thank </div>
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Except…now I have another matter that keeps me busy….my injuries. Little had I factored in my “new life as a runner” that I might get injured. No. How could that happen? I am following a well-studied plan. No overtraining, no over or under eating. All is meticulously thought of. How could I possibly forget that things not always (if ever) go as planned. My life is a testament to that!</div>
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Right now, things do not look good. Not only does my injured lheg hurt, but as I am compensating with the other leg I now have two silly legs rather than only one. To say that I am frustrated and sad (another type of sadness if I may add than the one which led me to jump into this suicidal marathon mission) is an understatement. Not only I have been training for weeks, made sacrifices, spent money….etc but other people are now involved. Dr. Reem my awesome crazy friend made the same sacrifices (if not more given she has her own little family). My friends are flying from London to cheer and support me. One of whom is even bringing her wonderful mamma along! My own family, led by the one and only nonna, are all pumped up for the Marathon (and most importantly for this rare family trip to the capital). I feel the pressure because I am not only disappointing myself (and trust me…. I am as harsh as harsh can be) but I might be soon disappointing a whole lot more of people.</div>
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In addition to unavoidable consultation with Dr. Google to find answers to questions like “how to train for a marathon with ITB issues and shin splints”; I have seen two orthopedic doctors, a chiropractor, several physiotherapists and sport massage experts, and even a specialist in neuro kinetic therapy (!!). I even have a moral and physical support network that gives me access to some of the top notch non-medicine based therapies available. I am really trying to pull through this. I would have given up long ago if it wasn’t for my tribe which believes in me more than I believe in myself. Reem keeps telling me that this is a mental game. The mind gives up way before the body does. I believe I have a strong mind. When I make up my mind, I rarely (read I cannot remember) I give up. </div>
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So dear tribe, what I promise you is that I will give it my all. I will rest, train when accessible to me. I will medicate and listen to those who know more than me. I promise to continue this journey with all the optimism that you entrusted in me. I will come to Rome having done everything I can to cross that finish line. If worse comes to worse I will be in Rome with my friends and family cheering for you “Reem the invincible”, waiting at the finish line, holding a massive heart shaped Pizza. Because I love you and I am a hopeless romantic.</div>
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*Congratulations Kamilah for the longest – ever- sentence. You would have failed your students on such syntax back in uni days!</div>
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A nomadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02455429151344355570noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3145526462323294486.post-39844775178528555112017-01-06T03:22:00.001-08:002017-01-06T03:22:22.058-08:00What a week<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
My first week in 2017 was an intense one. Let alone that I woke up with a message from my bank informing me that I bought house insurance in the USA for over 1500 dollars... WTF! but it has been intense because I had to go back to a place I left behind almost 16 years ago. A place where time seems to have stopped. At least for my family.<br />
<br />
This trip reminded me how lucky I am. But also reminded me that I have to be kind to myself because if I am where I am today I owe it to the great woman I call mamma (and she would need books to give her the credit she deserves) but also some credit goes to me. To the choices I made. To the sacrifices. To the sleepless nights, to the 4 jobs at once when my friends all cared about was to have a boyfriend and a Vespa. To starting a BA degree at 16, an MA at 19 a PhD at 21 after a sabbatical year. I owe it to working as a waitress, a translator, a cook, a travel agent.<br />
<br />
One of the things I am most proud today is that I am free. SURPRISINGLY it seems like a privilege when I am with my Palestinian/Jordanian family. In the sense that my family now forgives me things they do not forgive others.. As if I earned such right.<br />
<br />
I have to run. My flight to Abu Dhabi, the place I call home today is boarding<br />
Peace and love<br />
Happy 2017</div>
A nomadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02455429151344355570noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3145526462323294486.post-67883940607744653112016-12-31T00:51:00.001-08:002016-12-31T15:32:43.933-08:00Thank you 2016<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I am sitting on my EY Flight destination Amman (thank you. Technology!!). It is the last day of 2016. A year that was characterized by so many traumatic events around the globe. Wars, terrorism, famine, forced migration, ..., Brexit. No wonder many are waiting for this year to be over. With a little over two hours to go before I land in Jordan - a trip I am dreading for the significant emotional toll that it will bear on me - I am left to ponder about what 2016 meant for me.<br />
<br />
Selfishly, 2016 was a good year. A very good year. For the first time in almost three years, Abu Dhabi finally felt like home. This was only possible thanks to the human connections that I established. I have to partially credit myself, in the sense that my craving for genuine human interactions, for friendships, for meaningful relationships pushes me to speak with strangers. Smiling and chatting up people does not always reap the desired results. Some grump. Some send back a synthetic smile. But thanks to the law of large numbers (check wikipedia!) eventually, a smile or a chat sparks a genuine smile back. It triggers a "hello". A "how are you?"<br />
<br />
To make a long story short, I am thankful for 2016 as it brought me:<br />
Some new amazing friends and strengthened some newly born friendships. Some relationships were tested, some broke, some lasted. Some are painfully uncertain... To my strong wonder and super duper women out there, near and far, please know that you are in my daily bed time prayer. You ALL are my rock<br />
A fitter, healthier, smoke-free, stronger (not skinnier ....eeeek) version of me! More and more athletic and eager to challenge myself. I conquered fears and completed a desert warrior challenge, a spartan a half marathon (still cannot believe it!)<br />
Adventures on land, mountains, sea and under water! I travelled Asia, America, Latin America, Europe, the Middle East! I made memories that will last...<br />
Reunions with loved ones. I managed to share so many great moments with people I love. People from my previous life. People that no matter how far you are, no matter how infrequent our interactions are, our bond stays strong. Afterall, we are only a whatsapp and skype away...<br />
Quality time with family. Mine, like many, is a complex one. Multicultural and hence multi-problem and multi-headache. But it is family. I am blessed that I managed to spend my 36th Christmas with my super duper 87 yo gran. This is perhaps the greatest blessing.<br />
Butterflies in the stomach. This year I loved again. Ohhh and it was beautiful. Not long enough. Is it ever? But it was so beautiful. Like spring. It gave me joy and a side kick I thought I would never feel again. It gave me hope, that I could love, and be loved again. It made me think. It made me happy and a little sad. It reminded me that we need to live every moment because you never know when that moment will fade. Sometimes quicker than you wish....<br />
My Bonnie!! My partner in crime. My beautiful bike.<br />
<br />
2016 had it share of sad news for me too. It took away someone I loved. A person that I grew up with. A person that life tested him so much. I am not sure if he disappointed life or life disappointed him. Omar, I will miss you dearly. I wish I could have told you how much I loved you my dear cousin. I hope you rest in peace.<br />
<br />
Most importantly 2016 was good to me because I was free. I was free to make my choices. To live the life I want to live. To spend time with people I want to spend with. Leave those I wanted to leave. Free to stay. Free to go. Free to let go. I wish for 2017 to everyone to enjoy a life of freedom. Of health. Of peace. Of forgiveness...<br />
<br /></div>
A nomadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02455429151344355570noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3145526462323294486.post-16347988308300956282016-11-25T15:59:00.001-08:002016-11-25T15:59:48.624-08:00Let's do this<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Jeez! Another year passed....and my blog had no life.... last year I blamed Instagram, this year I "blame" my busy busy (but happy) life. However, I have been meaning to get back to it. As much as I am enjoying using pictures to captures memories, there are days that I need to write down how I feel. It is priceless to go back to old diaries and read what the Kamilah of many years ago was feeling or thinking.<br />
<br />
So, watch this space as I will come back to it really soon. In the meantime I find it funny to see how many things haven't changed from last year. Last post read:<br />
<br />
<ul style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0.5em 0px; padding: 0px 2.5em;">
<li style="margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;">I travelled a lot to new and familiar places such as Bali, Ireland, Scotland, the UK, Italy, Jordan and Oman</li>
</ul>
<div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> In 2016 story repeats itself: Argentina, Brazil, Italy, UK, Philippines, Jordan, California (USA), and Oman!</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></div>
<ul style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0.5em 0px; padding: 0px 2.5em;">
<li style="margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;">New exciting people have entered my life, while some (thankfully) exited </li>
</ul>
<div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> Couldn't be more true!</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></div>
<ul style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0.5em 0px; padding: 0px 2.5em;">
<li style="margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;">I have reunited with many of my favourite people on several occasions (did I mention my Super Duper best amazing rocking amazeballs girlfriends sent me a ticket to visit them in London on Valentine’s Day? YES! I have those kind of girlfriends…)</li>
</ul>
<div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> Not only I saw my super dupers butI also traveled with some of them</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></div>
<ul style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0.5em 0px; padding: 0px 2.5em;">
<li style="margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;">I have embraced some new healthy obsessions (you know me!), latest being Crossfit</li>
</ul>
<div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> Going strong as ever!</span></div>
<ul style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0.5em 0px; padding: 0px 2.5em;">
<li style="margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;">I laughed a lot, cried a little (but mostly out of laughter)</li>
</ul>
<div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> :)</span></div>
<ul style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0.5em 0px; padding: 0px 2.5em;">
<li style="margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;">Work took some (positive) turns I never imagined</li>
</ul>
<div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> Having a job is in itself a blessing</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></div>
<ul style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0.5em 0px; padding: 0px 2.5em;">
<li style="margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;">Uh oh AND I quit smoking!! On the 5<sup>th</sup> of May 2015….. Life if good. Namaste</li>
</ul>
<div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> Still clean! Could not be more proud</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">2016 you have been good and you are not over yet!</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">K</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">xx</span></div>
</div>
A nomadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02455429151344355570noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3145526462323294486.post-61893568180816877702015-11-10T06:11:00.001-08:002015-11-10T06:11:24.551-08:00Almost a year since my last post!! I blame Instagram :)<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
So much has happened over the past 11 and something
months. Things off the top of my head are:<br />
<br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>I travelled a lot to new and familiar places such as Bali, Ireland,
Scotland, the UK, Italy, Jordan and Oman</li>
<li>New exciting people have entered my life, while some (thankfully)
exited </li>
<li>I have reunited with many of my favourite people on
several occasions (did I mention my Super Duper best amazing rocking amazeballs
girlfriends sent me a ticket to visit
them in London on Valentine’s Day? YES! I have those kind of girlfriends…)</li>
<li>I have embraced some new healthy obsessions (you know
me!), latest being Crossfit</li>
<li>I laughed a lot, cried a little (but mostly out of
laughter)</li>
<li>Work took some (positive) turns I never imagined</li>
<li>Uh oh AND I quit
smoking!! On the 5<sup>th</sup> of May 2015….. Life if good. Namaste</li>
</ul>
</div>
A nomadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02455429151344355570noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3145526462323294486.post-70302549308266635672014-11-29T23:11:00.001-08:002014-11-29T23:11:15.117-08:00Fact?She is all the things men want to love. But could never handle...A nomadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02455429151344355570noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3145526462323294486.post-77986545065979570282014-09-20T11:03:00.001-07:002014-09-20T11:03:13.666-07:00Nieces and Nephew Grand Tour<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I did it again. I booked yet another trip. This will be the nieces and nephew grandtour. First stop: Stuttgart to meet my almost one year old niece Henrietta and her beautiful mom <a href="http://nomadenelmondo.blogspot.ae/2013/09/living-off-my-suitcase.html">Bille</a>. Then another stop in Brussels, to reunite with my sisters Fra, Ori and Cristina and my two adorable nieces Marta and Sofia. Those two monkies make my iced heart melt. Finally, a last stop in London to see all my gals for a crazy night out but only after I get introduced to Oliver, my brand new nephew!<br />
<br />
Yep, this will be an aunti-Tour. I am so excited. I am so happy.</div>
A nomadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02455429151344355570noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3145526462323294486.post-42811304715621537892014-09-14T11:19:00.001-07:002014-09-20T10:52:42.551-07:00Musandam diving trip<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
What an absolutely ace week-end! It started with a six hour drive, which seemed endless. It took everyone else about 3.5 to 4 hours, but my group and I got...ehm.. lost and got stuck in the sand. I must have believed I was driving a 4X4 as I was choosing a short cut across the sand. Thankfully we were towed by two locals with their serious truck. They say you haven't properly experienced the deserted unless you have been towed...so here you go!<br />
<br />
We finally reach our destination, Dibba port, and we embark on a beautiful old wooden dhow. Most divers are already there (3.5 to 4 hours remember?...argh). My new friends and I settle on the lower deck and I start dreaming about the sea life. I am mixed with excitement and fear as my risk calculating brain does not really come to terms with this new activity that I chose as the new hobby.<br />
<br />
The next two days are all about the sea, diving, breathing, and watching in awe the under water life. Being under water brings out the spiritual side of me... there is so much silence, apart from the Darth Vader-like sound that emanates from the regulator.... We do 5 five dives in total, the night dive was particularly hard for me. Thankfully, my wonderful instructor Paola comes to my rescue (as of course I loose my buddy in panic) and holds my hand throughout the dive. This calms me down and allows me to gaze at one of the most beautiful and breathaking sceneries I have ever seen....<br />
<br />
I think I am hooked! It has been a lovely adventure. Great fun, new people, new friends and more and more love for life...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8YQOy6Bf6RUofURJFY0AO5uLSYhyphenhyphenMmzXOmwfV7ryPiU4wf-3gDBw9Mg-oqNOvBA9bnh9d2lRj8GnFG4VJ1BcXw5y-b1a5-tquPMPyTtO0P45lKR1Pdgqjj3pftJLiwufuFQP5MHQvGAVp/s1600/IMG_8293.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8YQOy6Bf6RUofURJFY0AO5uLSYhyphenhyphenMmzXOmwfV7ryPiU4wf-3gDBw9Mg-oqNOvBA9bnh9d2lRj8GnFG4VJ1BcXw5y-b1a5-tquPMPyTtO0P45lKR1Pdgqjj3pftJLiwufuFQP5MHQvGAVp/s1600/IMG_8293.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ3DeuV9nEtmSQrDlFCF7hsMwqUVOkZfGXcpbzXiVz_Uy3M5Bv96K3aUaTXk-S7FkYMoV00Glgqcjr2auLFJyA5pWWV92UBt2dRA8d1R8zIAryTXQawDfxbZ-p-GX2hNdcg36_i9OCQXFp/s1600/IMG_8287.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ3DeuV9nEtmSQrDlFCF7hsMwqUVOkZfGXcpbzXiVz_Uy3M5Bv96K3aUaTXk-S7FkYMoV00Glgqcjr2auLFJyA5pWWV92UBt2dRA8d1R8zIAryTXQawDfxbZ-p-GX2hNdcg36_i9OCQXFp/s1600/IMG_8287.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq1aZJVlLpDzZn16nVc74iX9W9RnUfxtH5I6OnGmflvV2ydArhO29nUoY2JvqmDXr7GfkTZR_thvxmZqZS5lkVE6I6wHkljQmEDbW4kO8ZNQXk2QGl2cqtDqbLtGe8RD6QF96SGxThuehe/s1600/IMG_8316.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq1aZJVlLpDzZn16nVc74iX9W9RnUfxtH5I6OnGmflvV2ydArhO29nUoY2JvqmDXr7GfkTZR_thvxmZqZS5lkVE6I6wHkljQmEDbW4kO8ZNQXk2QGl2cqtDqbLtGe8RD6QF96SGxThuehe/s1600/IMG_8316.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">By Tim Allen</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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A nomadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02455429151344355570noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3145526462323294486.post-51769230165879684562014-09-08T15:42:00.001-07:002014-09-09T05:14:12.670-07:00Back in the desert<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I just can't sleep. I guess I am still in (on?) London timezone... it is 1.47 in Abu Dhabi, Milky Chance playing in the background. This was the soundtrack of my latest London adventure.<br />
<br />
The floor of my flat is covered with many things: dirty laundry, shopping bags, reciepts... Maybe I am lazy or maybe I just don't want to pack away the smell of London, the memories of the last week with my friends... not just yet.<br />
<br />
The recurring question while in London was: "When are you coming back Kami?" Only (!) 16 months ago the answer escaped my mouth without hesitation: "Soon! A year? Max two!". Today after almost 1 and a half years (Emily, I learned- at last- how to say it properly in English!) I am not sure anymore... Abu Dhabi has been hard. No wait, that is an understatement. Abu Dhabi has been tremendously hard. Part of me is ashamed of such an expression. Afterall, I did not come to a war zone. I came to an amazing job, to a peaceful and prosperous country, to a city where, notwithstanding its strong traditional vibe and muslim character, it still allows me to be myself and enjoy a lifestyle that suits my personality and my western mentality.<br />
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Abu Dhabi has been hard because it meant taking touch decisions, leaving loved ones, saying goodbye to many people, to some for good ... making a leap of faith. It meant closing a chapter of my life. They say every end is a new beginning, so it has been... These last months passed with ups and downs but if anything it brought me closer to many people in ways I could not have hoped for.<br />
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"Loveland - by Milky Chance"<br />
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Abu Dhabi did not but confirm my belief that "<b>Life is a journey, not a destination</b>", and if you haven't done so already please read the beautiful poem "<a href="http://www.cavafy.com/poems/content.asp?cat=1&id=74">Ithaka</a>" by Cavafy...which sums up my journey (courtesy of my sister Dimi). Such journey, however, could not have been possible if I did not have the love and support of quite a few people. My mother, first and foremost, who always believes in me and in my decisions and who is the only one who will always love me unconditionally (thank you Leo for teaching me that). But as this is what you'd expect from your mother, especially one who is "awesome" as mine (and who knows me understands I do not use this word lightly), my gratitude goes to my friends out there, too many to list and who have not left me alone. Never.<br />
They are scattered between England, Palestine (yes you sis!), Italy, Belgium, Abu Dhabi, the States, Germany, Switzerland, Dubai, Ireland, Macedonia, Greece, Qatar ...<br />
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They took planes, spent hours on skype, on whatsapp, viber... you name it, to make me feel closer. Our friendship, if anything, just became stronger and stronger over the past 16 months. They made the concept of distance a very relative one... so it is the thought of them that is keeping me awake now perhaps ... <br />
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I love you all dearly... it is 2.41 now. I kiss you all goodnight</div>
A nomadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02455429151344355570noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3145526462323294486.post-68320567426129342002014-08-26T20:41:00.003-07:002014-09-20T10:55:16.693-07:00And we pack again! End of the Road here I come<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
After Thailand I did a quick trip to Jordan. Another one of those trips down the memory lane.<br />
Now I am packing again for the trip of the year (or one of the trips of the year!)<br />
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<b>Destination: UK!</b><br />
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My holiday will start with a partial reunion with almost all super dupers. Destination End Of The Road festival (<a href="http://www.endoftheroadfestival.com/">EOTR</a>). I am so excited! It is my (and Meena's) first festival experience, but thankfully we are joined by some pro: Louise (who is back!!), Emily, Evelina, Vale, Pierre and Eoin. It will be all about tents, cider, wellies, mud, bonfire....and music of course!<br />
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Finding warm clothes fit for a festival was mission impossible. Almost! As I discovered a store called <a href="http://www.tchibo.de/">Tschibo</a> which does not have a particular theme but sells absolutey everything including thermals!<br />
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So, I have the tent, the sleeping bag, the wellies, and above all the excitment to see my friends! I really need this break as lately I've been juggling three jobs. My professional life is undertaking serious restructuring (soon you will kow more!), but I am tired!<br />
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So, EOTR, here I come!<br />
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A nomadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02455429151344355570noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3145526462323294486.post-87618216792053470012014-08-26T20:32:00.001-07:002014-08-26T20:42:49.826-07:00The best of Thailand in pictures <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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A nomadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02455429151344355570noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3145526462323294486.post-61628255847552238932014-07-22T13:13:00.004-07:002014-07-22T13:16:02.098-07:00Packing. Again. Destination Thailand<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Oman, Jordan, Palestine, and Vietnam were the destinations of the first half of 2014. The second half will take me (inshallah as we say in this part of the world) to many more ...<br />
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Next destination: Thailand and its amazing beaches. I look forward to be reunited (for the third time this year!) with my Super Dupers and dive in the beautiful waters of Koh Tao (I am - almost- PADI certified, yuppy!!)<br />
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Bottom line, I am packing again. My swim and gym gear are ready (yep I found a gym on Koh Tao, but we will see if the girls allow me to use it) and in two more sleeps, a quick seven hour flight, I will be in Bangkok where I meet Merge and Mariana, before we take a bus south to Hua Hin, celebrate our full reunion with Lou Lou and Emsy, celebrate Emily's birthday and hopefully without too much hangover head to Koh Tao.<br />
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Two of the Super Dupers are missing, but they will be with us in spirit!<br />
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A nomadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02455429151344355570noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3145526462323294486.post-81693635336432110632014-07-22T12:57:00.003-07:002014-07-22T13:01:57.319-07:00Palestine 2014<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Palestine, was another trip destination in 2014. A lovely, beautiful
yet emotional trip. Lovely and beautful because I reunited with my
family: my mother, sister, grandmother (85!) ad her best friend (79!) in
one of my beaitiful homelands. Palestine. Emotional, because of the
many stories we touched with our hands. Stories of occupation, stories
of struggle, of hardship, of hope.<br />
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They say pictures are worth thousands words, so let me narrate my Palestine trip with pictures between Jerusalem, Bethlehem, Bet Sahour, Akka, Sekhnin, Jafa, Nablus ...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7CoTQpcvnqmiyLQ_qrys_6bRlWn0yircI8DSH9D1ushuM2cJPcdjIuidtFbRXmAAmi39gTTcYCkkhVOh7NCRrNWyKDzkDeLPsM7JmgO0_S1HOlv7tE_HyOkvGAgiiC4pqJKnvxYxWCCzH/s1600/DSC04600.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7CoTQpcvnqmiyLQ_qrys_6bRlWn0yircI8DSH9D1ushuM2cJPcdjIuidtFbRXmAAmi39gTTcYCkkhVOh7NCRrNWyKDzkDeLPsM7JmgO0_S1HOlv7tE_HyOkvGAgiiC4pqJKnvxYxWCCzH/s1600/DSC04600.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9vGfTa2VYkFoDPKDGhSy1eBkboje35CBeViRFcEwpd096JBdYsoXnqNJ93I3U8auauiEidoJjdXLLrikMcPxBUIuwkpv2d89dv5MM8aBTMhagZyKzgSNmDMjHnwPyqDU2D6cMFIB0jBJZ/s1600/DSC04495.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9vGfTa2VYkFoDPKDGhSy1eBkboje35CBeViRFcEwpd096JBdYsoXnqNJ93I3U8auauiEidoJjdXLLrikMcPxBUIuwkpv2d89dv5MM8aBTMhagZyKzgSNmDMjHnwPyqDU2D6cMFIB0jBJZ/s1600/DSC04495.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib8ZgBynESEevJq6cmZGSDrmlnepg3TxnLGD8EmgVyTENPwPg2AaqX7mbTa6B2dFF0fZBAtfjXiGvUaQbN_ft3rhKqQMTgyTKkou7-5lcCdzVwH9rS4JoMiiC6607jprNlFAzav4V4V1xr/s1600/DSC04504.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib8ZgBynESEevJq6cmZGSDrmlnepg3TxnLGD8EmgVyTENPwPg2AaqX7mbTa6B2dFF0fZBAtfjXiGvUaQbN_ft3rhKqQMTgyTKkou7-5lcCdzVwH9rS4JoMiiC6607jprNlFAzav4V4V1xr/s1600/DSC04504.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH1gUxCKBF6kKtw46EhTFUqOzY6_coeVPxjM263mJqauv2PQ4rpoaLu0lhXt1ivNAORhEcdHqSCNw9gV57WQViccsQFyM9VefujIv0cjHTGm9CqDM9CDt_kiIAyWczGmIe3XF5xNqy1Hhc/s1600/DSC04475.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH1gUxCKBF6kKtw46EhTFUqOzY6_coeVPxjM263mJqauv2PQ4rpoaLu0lhXt1ivNAORhEcdHqSCNw9gV57WQViccsQFyM9VefujIv0cjHTGm9CqDM9CDt_kiIAyWczGmIe3XF5xNqy1Hhc/s1600/DSC04475.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpWguNfuVPYs94JUCZcGl6J3z9co0nlxBBcPVQwqU7-fTDdqhtWG1nAhc4bm0GvWd99Z2mD7NUwfztKhC717acIbtK4ZbdW0Z_4mqmv8ZkELFXssZC-kAOCDJ9v7N6rJFRNzaNVt4d0lwT/s1600/DSC04459.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpWguNfuVPYs94JUCZcGl6J3z9co0nlxBBcPVQwqU7-fTDdqhtWG1nAhc4bm0GvWd99Z2mD7NUwfztKhC717acIbtK4ZbdW0Z_4mqmv8ZkELFXssZC-kAOCDJ9v7N6rJFRNzaNVt4d0lwT/s1600/DSC04459.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Akka</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqcqwSTQkRjtD6-mk59aXndHAExrUxchB2vaemzTurdesHfrUu-Ba_DT_p-wreEltqB5_zSqRATn6d5a34IAU2_33cCygNU0b5l_YDBvWTIxScj1z4h5dR4gyDDvYI20NAmc6hi0Ztny0V/s1600/DSC04399.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqcqwSTQkRjtD6-mk59aXndHAExrUxchB2vaemzTurdesHfrUu-Ba_DT_p-wreEltqB5_zSqRATn6d5a34IAU2_33cCygNU0b5l_YDBvWTIxScj1z4h5dR4gyDDvYI20NAmc6hi0Ztny0V/s1600/DSC04399.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dead car on way to Seknin</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS9sQtn-3n0-n24GrHwX6jrHPmIbQXmg7iKfpx6ep0Hg4oIZKj3iWido9LAENbDmEbPHhz09hPYt3NOxCBiUfxqcY5508dqVbPEnYQ_5gHfc3EZaBaLhJJjStxB0Sedh5dNL-17ms9qHzw/s1600/DSC04567.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS9sQtn-3n0-n24GrHwX6jrHPmIbQXmg7iKfpx6ep0Hg4oIZKj3iWido9LAENbDmEbPHhz09hPYt3NOxCBiUfxqcY5508dqVbPEnYQ_5gHfc3EZaBaLhJJjStxB0Sedh5dNL-17ms9qHzw/s1600/DSC04567.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV_5f6-mUEY8o9GcFDrb5RC1wqeAKRq477OoGuugCtU1-ipuiLC_tdNy7kUgFi0F4lMpp5i5nSx4nbIMMdfAtligDlPuzNWelXfZ_W4EC1uv2ZJz76wLrUZm1rHuW_G7B-bt-zQ6Pi548R/s1600/DSC04458.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV_5f6-mUEY8o9GcFDrb5RC1wqeAKRq477OoGuugCtU1-ipuiLC_tdNy7kUgFi0F4lMpp5i5nSx4nbIMMdfAtligDlPuzNWelXfZ_W4EC1uv2ZJz76wLrUZm1rHuW_G7B-bt-zQ6Pi548R/s1600/DSC04458.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nativity Church</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8g3zib3O7C6yr3hmtwymHMU4BJluMn_oljYx1TgjdCSuaTNPaCbpquU5SkRb_MjjSUo5s0u_-Ph8ID9OxTWNJxF_UGikhhcazno8qCK5gwKIcCuf9DKxosRxUwGt0qpm8XvMZwsMpJXMP/s1600/DSC04541.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8g3zib3O7C6yr3hmtwymHMU4BJluMn_oljYx1TgjdCSuaTNPaCbpquU5SkRb_MjjSUo5s0u_-Ph8ID9OxTWNJxF_UGikhhcazno8qCK5gwKIcCuf9DKxosRxUwGt0qpm8XvMZwsMpJXMP/s1600/DSC04541.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8eH2s_zArQmB3BsFqutJii0gUyCM4KwfTe0eRLZtYLzI9ddfWIScB5459l_h3mEPZW-zj2nXIrAFislsB47_oExh_HexRQyE27Qn7jDe_R-fseufL9yMyJri8PBQWphPofZr5nxFjka9q/s1600/DSC04510.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8eH2s_zArQmB3BsFqutJii0gUyCM4KwfTe0eRLZtYLzI9ddfWIScB5459l_h3mEPZW-zj2nXIrAFislsB47_oExh_HexRQyE27Qn7jDe_R-fseufL9yMyJri8PBQWphPofZr5nxFjka9q/s1600/DSC04510.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYV9vvQVUjub0osXG0VaX8_6c76cZ7YWlDvNDGAdMNKbUTJDgsUZ2dMIKjTqMFNptlPIu3JAeBcr52_1vmCfMDjtmLSkeQLOOYee6-7h_jHoafk5aCnupLRsf-x1S7IXnOABzlke8zJYkp/s1600/DSC04551.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYV9vvQVUjub0osXG0VaX8_6c76cZ7YWlDvNDGAdMNKbUTJDgsUZ2dMIKjTqMFNptlPIu3JAeBcr52_1vmCfMDjtmLSkeQLOOYee6-7h_jHoafk5aCnupLRsf-x1S7IXnOABzlke8zJYkp/s1600/DSC04551.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihAIylJgONA9IEek0YS9yPjXMTQWpQyEdaGSXBZNrbyfjg8MCxOyyaa6FVBDwOUW-Dv2D5srcYujoIwMdAIQ-E4CGJAN7yjI8z5bkkzvCpY1wk9kRPS0JX0FK9XL1eNUn17WyWaowvzdOH/s1600/DSC04596.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihAIylJgONA9IEek0YS9yPjXMTQWpQyEdaGSXBZNrbyfjg8MCxOyyaa6FVBDwOUW-Dv2D5srcYujoIwMdAIQ-E4CGJAN7yjI8z5bkkzvCpY1wk9kRPS0JX0FK9XL1eNUn17WyWaowvzdOH/s1600/DSC04596.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEissf6luUHAaWKbj-2GY3rp4bxe_R-XNCaImJguq5uZ6f1VlCFOeIHrRLITqi6v6AjHUtusm8uF79c7SGSBQgtnob92_a6PqRpS1F0q7Dnd2Z0vpFnrc-An3ZJYxbbH_88S20AtUc-rGa5a/s1600/DSC04612.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEissf6luUHAaWKbj-2GY3rp4bxe_R-XNCaImJguq5uZ6f1VlCFOeIHrRLITqi6v6AjHUtusm8uF79c7SGSBQgtnob92_a6PqRpS1F0q7Dnd2Z0vpFnrc-An3ZJYxbbH_88S20AtUc-rGa5a/s1600/DSC04612.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8gK2AzDku4KgUuc-E97czqn01T6xiQk3ebAsnhB7Squo3CiDXdRBTDDhiwf5CGHS0es4EmBPE9gzSdpY4-HxflDkBtOQdxqdvbckr96dNuia3dxyDwAIi3XDakxzi5MML5EMzw_a9gN4n/s1600/DSC04318.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8gK2AzDku4KgUuc-E97czqn01T6xiQk3ebAsnhB7Squo3CiDXdRBTDDhiwf5CGHS0es4EmBPE9gzSdpY4-HxflDkBtOQdxqdvbckr96dNuia3dxyDwAIi3XDakxzi5MML5EMzw_a9gN4n/s1600/DSC04318.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Football fans in Akka</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBottfpq8toHS8zKb35sugnEF6MBmrE-N9mWZs9uXAvol7W7KevOMuj1tsbhHdbPOzmo3OhBOlm9BOaRQoFqc-qheYOFqfKlVLfn9kNY1kw95fdqACvS-Rpnq9Tknjf62h8sxT-GfetJkq/s1600/DSC04405.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBottfpq8toHS8zKb35sugnEF6MBmrE-N9mWZs9uXAvol7W7KevOMuj1tsbhHdbPOzmo3OhBOlm9BOaRQoFqc-qheYOFqfKlVLfn9kNY1kw95fdqACvS-Rpnq9Tknjf62h8sxT-GfetJkq/s1600/DSC04405.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bir'3em village</td></tr>
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A nomadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02455429151344355570noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3145526462323294486.post-2989641160675742702014-07-22T12:07:00.002-07:002014-07-22T13:05:12.471-07:00Getting so bad at blogging....<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Am I getting lazy? Perhaps. I am getting busier and busier? Definitely. Or maybe it is Twitter's and Whatsapp's fault.<br />
<br />
I started blogging because I had no Facebook and I wanted to keep my family and friends, who ar all over the world, posted about my life without having to send individual emails (I have MANY friends and family is scattered all over the place!)<br />
<br />
But now, since the advent of Whatsapp and Twitter things have changed. I am on daily contact with those I love; the super dupers, family, my wife, friends ... and I am less and less on my blog. But I need to go back to it because reading my old entries makes me smile, laugh and cry... sometime. So many events, so many emotions that Twitter and Whatsapp can't properly document.<br />
<br />
So, will do my best to keep it updated. It turns out I have a few readers (even in the US, hello Greg!!)<br />
<br />
Watch this space.... <br />
<br /></div>
A nomadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02455429151344355570noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3145526462323294486.post-63462065533697917192014-06-11T14:08:00.003-07:002014-06-11T14:08:45.928-07:00Vietnam Part II: The Mekong Delta and La CONCHINCHINE<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Louise and I spent 1.5 days in Saigon. The first thing I had to do, was
to learn how to cross the street. To say that crossing the streets is an
adventure where you fear for your life - is an understatement. Louise,
bless her, was a pro. She would hold my hand, tell me to keep a slow and
balanced pace (no sudden changes in speed) and take me to the other
side safely. Flocks of mopeds and bicycles attack you from every side.
Even if the pedestrian light is green, it is not safe. To Louise's
dismay, after a few hours, call me impatient, I developed a new approach
called the "shield approach". I would wait for a local to cross the
street, stand behind him and shadow his movement. They clearly knew what
they were doing and they were faster than Louise who insisted on the
"let's taking it slow Kamilah" approach. As I said, impatient.<br />
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While in Saigon we took the Tunnels' tour, which was a
very interesting experience. The Vietnamese people are small and
defenseless- looking. However, when it comes to designing deadly
weapons, they are not so defenseless any more. Jeez!</div>
<div>
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<div>
Throughout the tour we were entertained by a bunch
of Ukrainians who believed it was a photo shoot set. They took pictures
literally everywhere and in every pose. I had to retract from the tunnel
walk because they established a set under ground and I could not
breath! Louise was brave and finished the walk (or crawl) not without
having to shout MOVE! a few times. The annoying Ukrainians were balanced
out by the encounter with Matteo, a very cool 24 year old Italian
travelling solo across South East Asia. He joined us for dinner with our
local friends and we danced (or drank) the night away ....</div>
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On DAY 2, our bus picked us from Matteo's house (the
other Matteo) to take us to the Mekong Delta. 2.5 hours and a food pit
stop later (which included the most amazing "<span>Banh</span> mi"
ever, filled with the meat of an unidentified animal hanging from a food
cart. Man, if I did not get sick there, I will not get sick
"anywhere!!") we arrived at Can Tho. We board a tiny boat and we have an
amazing tour of the <span>CaiRang</span> Floating Market. One of the
most bustling floating markets in Mekong. Our guide asks us whether we
would like a twin or double cabin and we opt of the former. To which he
replies: "Well, we thought you were a couple so we have only a double
cabin" [<span>WTF</span>, was it a lesbian test?!]<br clear="all" />
<div>
The boat then proceeds to transfer us to la <span>Cochinchine</span>,
an amazing wooden boat with a surprise. It is all ours!! As it is low
season, we were the only passengers, pampered and taken care of by an
all male 6 member cabin crew. We were <span>spoiled</span>, very <span>spoiled</span>.</div>
<div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjweBH98Usw1cT7J2JqvCjZoTZBifAFJkXTU11P-vtDvn_v_W8wPJzxiqu28Yi9c4R2okNqy3FNbl_tdIlQyWfDLQ9IH-jsxTx2mxYRhzqgXkMltgK3RogW5I8X2jSZe-50mcvM_RligE8q/s1600/IMG_5822.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjweBH98Usw1cT7J2JqvCjZoTZBifAFJkXTU11P-vtDvn_v_W8wPJzxiqu28Yi9c4R2okNqy3FNbl_tdIlQyWfDLQ9IH-jsxTx2mxYRhzqgXkMltgK3RogW5I8X2jSZe-50mcvM_RligE8q/s1600/IMG_5822.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDd8F29QcWQtcFHesaEB817O86R1zFLqbaQ23c2BaLY0eXEsRRiTwwtSBg78hj0cP8HnqCD5dfenxKbYQqHazfqfQC7zllhxKscjR8KvJQl0oUD5i9dx49TsXMWQ0xFc7Ju8WkolRgxrGY/s1600/IMG_5824.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDd8F29QcWQtcFHesaEB817O86R1zFLqbaQ23c2BaLY0eXEsRRiTwwtSBg78hj0cP8HnqCD5dfenxKbYQqHazfqfQC7zllhxKscjR8KvJQl0oUD5i9dx49TsXMWQ0xFc7Ju8WkolRgxrGY/s1600/IMG_5824.jpg" height="200" width="150" /></a>We spent the two days on the cruise, eating, laying
on a sun bed, cycling across rice fields (followed by a foot massage),
eating again, drinking , sleeping .... surrounded by a magnificent
nature that was simply breathtaking. The difference between the Mekong
and Saigon is striking. One is a bustling city, with so many people that
look like non-stop working ants. The other is a green paradise, filled
with exotic fruit trees and people on hammocks...</div>
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<div>
</div>
<div>
After two days and two nights on the boat with the
boys immersed in nature and treated like queens, we were a bit sad to
leave....we said goodbye, jumped on our bus and were ready to continue
our adventure... (to be continued)<br />
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8P6c6_Z_eaRFgG83_rHJ5lZ_0NjJ4HsK8nfB8FtyEXb7YiARFnhhJ0LEsZrVTDkQuWP1OHp1IQ6gTV1bUijqa-LWoyHfJEzJKY4xRnpaBKPe2kzbO9tZ635W-zAVWckq_uGY_4e-DbawR/s1600/IMG_5976.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8P6c6_Z_eaRFgG83_rHJ5lZ_0NjJ4HsK8nfB8FtyEXb7YiARFnhhJ0LEsZrVTDkQuWP1OHp1IQ6gTV1bUijqa-LWoyHfJEzJKY4xRnpaBKPe2kzbO9tZ635W-zAVWckq_uGY_4e-DbawR/s1600/IMG_5976.JPG" height="200" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Snake WIne</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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A nomadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02455429151344355570noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3145526462323294486.post-18143152926375657052014-06-05T09:16:00.003-07:002014-06-11T14:09:29.690-07:00Vietnam P I: Abu Dhabi - Saigon<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div>
What a MAGNIFICENT
holiday my Vietnam trip was. I could not have wished for a better way to spend
9 days with Louise, some old friends and new ones.<br />
<br />
My Etihad chauffeur
arrived on time (yes, one of the many perks of travelling business) at 6.15. At
the airport I was greeted by Etihad Staff who made my check-in as quick and
smooth as possible. 10 minutes later I was having a sumptuous breakfast in the
Etihad Lounge. I was so excited to meet Louise that I was smiling to the walls…<br />
<br />
In no time it was
time to board. I was escorted to my seat and greeted by many smiley Etihad
attendants who rushed to take my food order for the flight, not before offering me a glass of Champagne. My business class inexperience transpired as soon as I
asked when food would be served. The very professional attendant smiled and
replied: “Whenever you like”. I knew I was bound to have the most relaxing and
enjoyable flight ever. I could not stop giggling throughout the flight: I was
going on holiday with Louise – in Vietnam (let alone the silly pampering on
flight): How bloody lucky I am!! <br />
<br />
Several glasses of
Champagne later, a state-of-the-art dining experience (for god’s sake I had a steak!), a movie and a nap later I arrived at my destination: Saigon (today’s
Ho Chi Minh).<br />
My partner in crime
was delayed, so I find my way to Matteo’s house (a friend from Genoa/Arenzano
who migrated to Vietnam a little over 3 years ago). My timing was off, as he
happened to be in Bangkok with his better half for the week-end (bad timing though
given the curfew).Matteo and his
lovely friends deserve the medal of best hosts of the year. ZE BEST! <br />
<br />
Matteo took care of
everything: booked our tours, sent me details of how to get to his house, including
expected cost of cab. Left me cash, adapters, mosquito repellents, guides, directions
for where to eat, drink and party, a basket of fruit, milk in the fridge and
his entire house! If it was not for the better sense of Hoang (his adorable neighbour)
I would have found flowers too. Thankfully, H. thought that was a bit too much
and decided to skip that gallantry (that would have been so much pressure). He
was also kind enough to come and check on me soon after I arrived and I felt at
home in no time!<br />
<br />
A quick shower and
I was off to meet Diego, another of Matte’s friends who is from Genoa (yes, we are indeed <i>gente di mare</i>- sea travelers!). Had my first Vietnamese beer, soup,
and a nice chat before I go home to meet and greet my bella.<br />
<br />
After catching up with Louise on the last 1.5 month in which we hadn't seen each other (although thanks to Whatsapp it was more about the last two week's events) we fell asleep excited for the days ahead! </div>
</div>
A nomadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02455429151344355570noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3145526462323294486.post-16348984575512463662014-05-22T19:35:00.001-07:002014-05-22T19:35:23.247-07:00The holiday season... Has begunIt was about time!! I call the period better October until mid May in Abu Dhabi, the guests season. Then the next coming months are too hot for whit skin people. The weather is so nice in the winter and the fall here, that I save my holiday for when temperatures start to soar. And man if the soar. Apart from my brief long week end in Oman, I am off now to my first adventure of the year. The first of many planned actually.<div>Am so so excited! Am drafting this message as am comfortably sitting in a beautiful black Audi, kindly provided by Etihad for its business traveller. But don't be fooled. Despite the luxury travel I am having a proper backpacking holiday. Let's say backpacking with a twist!</div><div>Am on my way to Ho Chi Minh (or Saigon) where am tagging along one of my best friends' adventures!</div><div>Louise is on a 4 month holiday in south east Asia. She is on a longer journey though, a very brave one. While we know she is making friends every day and she will manage just fine; the super dupers decided to join her during some of her trips. </div><div>This reminds me of something Louise's mum told her when she learned about out plan: "oh Louise, your friends will never let you be alone!"</div><div>Se meant well! But now that I think of what we planned, that could also have sound like a threat (which is now maeriosing!) </div><div>Am almost at the airport! More posts to come!</div><div>Vietnam and Louise... Here I come!!</div><div><br></div>A nomadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02455429151344355570noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3145526462323294486.post-25389125127175205602014-04-11T00:16:00.004-07:002014-04-11T00:16:49.926-07:00One year in Abu Dhabi<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="text-align: center;">
... coming soon....</div>
</div>
A nomadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02455429151344355570noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3145526462323294486.post-3090095630163247052014-04-11T00:16:00.001-07:002014-04-11T00:16:10.409-07:00Brunch in Dubai - Saffron<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
When you think Dubai, if you are a resident, you think Brunch. I was introduced to the concept in the London. You usually go for one on a lazy Saturday, when you wake up late and around 12ish your stomach is ready to welcome some food. You haven't had breakfast and it is lunch time, hence you go for a Brunch. I always loved the idea of a Brunch. It felt very London (my friend Bari always made fun of me when I said I was having one, simply because it was so "Londony").<br />
<br />
When I arrived in Abu Dhabi and started flipping through the local Time Out, the pages were full of Brunch deals: bubbly Brunches, less than 100 AED, less than 200AED, less than 300 AED. Seafood Brunches, mixed Brunches....Brunches were everywhere. My first one was at the <a href="http://www.shangri-la.com/abudhabi/shangrila/dining/restaurants/pearls-caviar/">Pearl and Caviar </a>Restaurant, for a friend's birthday. As the name suggests, it was very luxurious. The location was amazing, a table on the terrace with sea view. You start at 12.30 and you can enjoy delicacies from sushi, and oysters, to Sunday Roast, mixed grills, cheeses...you name it. All flushed down with grape (this the localised nomenclature for wine(!)) and bubbly for the modest (sigh) price of 360 Dirhams (60 quid!). When the ladies came down to Abu Dhabi, I took them there, because it is one of those Abu Dhabi things that you need to do at least ones. It was a lovely day, we laughed, we ate, we drank, we celebrated.<br />
<br />
That was it for me. I was done with Brunches, at least for a while. This was true until a few week ends back when I went down to Dubai to celebrate a friend's 30th birthday. In Dubai, brunches are an institution. They have no other topic on the radio but the new Brunch that opened in the latest hotel. So, here we go. Our destination was <a href="http://www.atlantisthepalm.com/">Atlantis the Palm</a>! I thought, now or never. It seemed like a cool place, and somewhere I would never go in the near future or at all if it was not for this event. Plus who says no to a day out in town with some crazy fun girlfriends? So, I pack my suitcase and head for 2 nights in Dubai looking forward to some extravagance. This was no regular Brunch. This was a Brunch at the Atlantis!! This was a 480 AED Brunch (yep, eighty! quid).<br />
<br />
What happened next, is worthy of an essay on human behaviour:<br />
I had always believed that people lose it at buffets. They lose their rational sense. At buffet, many people tend to fill their plates with amount they could not possibly eat. But food is there, available. It seems like an urge of getting more, of not being left behind, erupts in people's minds when they see big amounts of food. Most of it gets wasted, as the brain disconnects the eye from the stomach. The stomach is filled after a few bites; but the eye (or greed) wants more.<br />
<br />
When you think Brunch in Dubai, think the above but multiply it by 100. This is not a regular buffet. this is a fancy Buffet which cost you 80 quid. So, if you can't eat for that amount, make sure you drink it. It does not matter if you will get wasted in say 20 minutes, if you will forget how food tastes like....but hey you spent 80 quid!! When you queue for a food station (and you have a choice of Sushi, Chinese, Indian, Middle Eastern, Seafood, Italian, French...the list goes on) make sure you pick a drink pouring down from a fountain. It does not matter if you started with a Sparkling wine as a welcome drink. Make sure you vary. Also, when your turn arrives at the station, don't forget to quickly dispose the half full drink on the nearest table so you have two full hands to fill your plate with food you won't eat. On your way to the table, do not forget to pick a big water melon which has been emptied from its healthy contents and filled with vodka. The waiters will be nice enough to add 4 or 5 straws, because sharing is caring.<br />
<br />
In case the first plate filled with foods that do not go together was not enough, off you go for another round. Not before an army of waiters swiftly take away your dirty plate, change your cutlery and leave a bowl of lemon scented water in front of you, to dip your fishy smelling fingers. And before you even ask for it, that empty flut of bubbly is not empty any more. This goes on and on until 4pm, when tables are full of empty water mellons, half a dozen of emty shot glasses, and people dance everywhere.... ready to hit the next bar, because now love is in the air.<br />
<br />
I possibly cannot imagine doing this on a weekly basis, as it is the case with many UAE residents. The local scene has so much to offer: beaches, music, events ... Yet, Brunches as are an addiction for many.... I guess, next time I will just have to put my "social scientist's hat" off and enjoy the ride...<br />
<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
A nomadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02455429151344355570noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3145526462323294486.post-18276085437906890272014-02-22T11:09:00.001-08:002014-02-22T11:09:41.724-08:0022 February 2013<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
One year today, was my last day of work at Matrix. I cannot believe a year has gone by already. In less than 2 months it will be a year since I arrived to Abu Dhabi. That will be another story ...</div>
A nomadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02455429151344355570noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3145526462323294486.post-71303162622475143972014-02-22T11:07:00.002-08:002014-02-22T21:31:53.980-08:00THE ROLLING STONES<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
...Capital letters have been chosen on purpose. The concert was more than I expected. It was A-W-E-S-O-M-E!<br />
Those who know me, also know that I am strongly against the use of this word. Some people abuse it too often and shout "awesome", here and there for the silliest things. Awesome, means worthy of/isnpiring awe.... So, people please use it properly!<br />
<br />
And last night was totally awe inspiring. To see a bunch of 70 years old jumping up and down, performing amazing music that made history (man, the Rolling Stones!) with the spirit of teenagers was just amazing. I could not believe it. I was happy, people around me were happy. Smiles were slapped on everybody's faces. Happiness was all over the place. People were so high on music. We were all watching four friends having a public party!<br />
<br />
The concert sold out in December, so they erected an additional section to make room for hundreds of more lucky people who took part in last night's glorious event. Music was everywhere...... I was jumping in the morning before the event, jumping up and down walking to the concert, jumping at the concert, jumping on the way back. I could not stop.<br />
<br />
My best friend Bari rightly observed that Kamilah going to the Rolling Stones concert (or any concert for that matter) is like taking Ray Charles to admire the Monnalisa.... (wtf!). The man knows me so well. I am not a connoisseur of music, or singers. I don't even have a favourite band. All the time preceding the concert I even thought that Steven Tyler was the lead singer of the Rolling Stones (Shame, shame! I know) and that the band was from the USA (I am a disgrace!)<br />
<br />
Still. I could totally appreciate last night's magic. It was plain, impeccable, absolutely extraordinary entertainment. The time flew by. We all wanted more! In the end, there was no more appropriate finale song than their N. 1 track: I can't get no... Satisfaction!<br />
<br />
Here are some photos (blurry I know), as a reminder of that unforgettable night!<br />
<br />
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A nomadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02455429151344355570noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3145526462323294486.post-57349842435174865852014-02-21T02:32:00.001-08:002014-02-21T02:42:51.481-08:00First post of 2014Am back! I missed blogging. Lately I have been opting for twitter's 140 characters to share my life. But, I Will get BACK to my routine soon. <div>In the meantime am enjoying some sun on the al muneera beach before Karen and I get ready to meet our friends at the ROLLING STONES concert tonight. It is going to be mad!!</div><div>Pictures coming soon!</div>A nomadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02455429151344355570noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3145526462323294486.post-36250130136335625562013-12-19T13:29:00.001-08:002013-12-19T13:29:50.256-08:00At last...todayI closed all my open work assignments <div>Shopped for Christmas </div><div>Wrapped my gifts </div><div>Packed my suitcases </div><div>Changed my bed sheets</div><div>Hoovered the floors </div><div>And am now on my way to the airport wearing every possible item I own that resembles a jumper or rain coat...</div><div><br></div><div>Goodbye Abu Dhabi and see you in 2014. It has been a challenging yet rewarding 8 months and I will come back for more. </div><div><br></div><div>One thing I will miss for sure over the Christmas break is the lovely weather of the past weeks. Having said this, am actually looking forward to see and smell the rain. </div><div><br></div><div>Europe, here I come. </div><div><br></div>A nomadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02455429151344355570noreply@blogger.com0