the middle

it’s official – i’ve ventured to a part of the world i never dreamed i would be in: the middle east.  ok, so before you think i’m amazingly brave and interesting, i’m talking about my layover in dubai. still, embarrassing as it is to admit, i totally fell into the stereotypical american role, and was actually pretty nervous to come to a place in the middle east.

 

most stylish taxi ever.

despite my expectations, the people here that i’ve encountered are really nice.  not fake nice and courteous because they have to be, but actually go out of their way to be nice to you.  never have i been somewhere that so many people have walked up to me to say hello, offer directions and advice, and even help me hail taxis without an ulterior motive to steal my handbag. it is amazing how welcome you can feel in a foreign country, especially in a part of the world where the phrase “i’m american” doesn’t always ring positive. 

anyway, i’m not trying to get all deep and political on anyone here.  dubai is an absolutely beautiful, amazing city, and my only regret is that i only had two days to spend here.  ideally, dubai is a city that i’d like to take off a week, save like $10,000 and just dive head first into the opulence pool – buying everything in sight, having lavish meals 3-4x a day, and getting pampered.  this city is screaming with wealth, and unfortunately seems to be much more “look but don’t touch” to the poor traveling vagabond (me).

but don’t you worry, dubai. i will be back…