Adventures in Sandland

Real Snow in Sandland

2009-01-25T10:29:00.006+04:00

Heavy snowfall on Ras Al Khaimah's Jebel Jais mountain cluster
By Nasouh Nazzal, Staff Reporter
Published: January 24, 2009, 19:47

Ras Al Khaimah: Snow fell heavily on the mountains of Ras Al Khaimah on Friday night, leaving the Jebel Jais range covered in a thick white blanket of snow.

The extreme cold spell brought the temperature on top of the Jebel Jais mountain cluster, situated at a height of 5,700 feet, to as low as -3 degree Celsius on Friday night, as the snow blanketed an area extending over 5kms.

Major Saeed Rashid Al Yamahi, Manager of the Air Wing of RAK Police, who flew a helicopter to the top of the Jebel Jais mountain, said that the entire area was covered with 10 cm of snow.

"The sight up there this morning was totally unbelievable with the snow-capped mountain and the entire area covered with fresh, dazzling white snow. The snowfall started at 3pm on Friday afternoon and heavy snowfall began at 8 pm and continued till midnight, covering the entire area in a thick blanket of snow," he said.

The temperature on top of the mountain cluster remained extremely cold during the daytime on Saturday with the temperature rising to just 1 degree Celsius in the afternoon. "Much of the snow was still there even when we flew back from the mountain this afternoon. It is still freezing cold up there and there are chances that it might snow again on Saturday night," Major Al Yamahi added.

M. V. Varghese, Observer at the RAK Airport Meteorological Office, said that there were scattered rains in Ras Al Khaimah on Friday night which brought the temperature down. "The rain along with the cold easterly winds and low-lying clouds could have bought the temperatures further down on the mountains," he said.

Plans for mountain resort

Ras Al Khaimah had experienced heavy snowing on Jebel Jais mountains four years ago on December 28, 2004. "I had flown there in 2004 when it snowed, but this time it was much bigger and the snowing lasted longer as well," said Major Al Yamahi.

The Jebel Jais mountain cluster is situated around 25kms from Ras Al Khaimah City and normally has significantly lower temperatures even during the peak summer months.

Ras Al Khaimah has plans to capitalise on the attractive climate and spectacular scenery of Jebel Jais by building a mountain resort and ski slope on top of the mountains.

More Life in RAK

2008-11-01T12:26:00.001+04:00

There is a law banning stray animals from residential areas. Unfortunately stray animals do not read the papers.

Havoc in RAK as camel strays into residential area

By Nasouh Nazzal, Staff Reporter
Published: November 01, 2008, 00:01

Ras Al Khaimah: An agitated stray camel created panic among residents of Rashid Public area in the northern part of Ras Al Khaimah.

Nobody could handle the animal which was running around wildly, residents said, adding that it must have come from nearby barns. The residents explained that the legs of the camels in the nearby barns are tied with chains which slow down the animals' movement, but this animal was free from any shackles.

People started shouting at the camel and throwing things at him which fuelled the its agitated state.

The residents said that it was rare to see stray animals in the internal roads of the emirate's areas, as the camels in particular can be dangerous in such conditions. The residents stressed that camels do differ from the cows, sheep and goats when stuck to the residential areas.

The surrounding camel barns have much stock which are trained for camel racing and competitions, but those barns lock their animals and do not let them go astray.

Rude awakening

The stray camel woke up many of the residents of the Rashid Public area, where people picked up their mobile phones and cameras to capture the moments of the agitated and lost animal.

Residents of the area lodged a complaint with the emirate's Municipality on the incident, stating that stray camels would be a real danger if not fully controlled.

A senior municipal official said that the emirate's Municipality has been fighting the phenomenon of the spread of the stray animals all over the emirate, but the owners of the barns have not been showing the necessary cooperation.

The official added that the emirate's Municipality has recently imposed a law to eliminate the stray animals in a phased manner.

We Don"t Get The Same Headlines In RAK, as in Dubai

2008-10-11T09:37:00.005+04:00

Cow forces car to swerve, crash

The car which rammed into the gate and front wall of a public kitchen when a cow strayed onto the street.By
Nasouh Nazzal, Staff Reporter
Published: October 10, 2008, 23:53

Ras Al Khaimah: An Emirati motorist skidded off the road when he tried to avoid a stray cow and demolished a wall of a public kitchen, police said.

He and his friend, another Emirati, were injured in the accident that occurred in Al Rams area on Wednesday.

The kitchen staff ran for their lives when they saw the car heading for them out of control.

A officer at the traffic department said the two Emiratis, identified as M.Q and N.M, were admitted to Al Rams Medical Centre for treatment.

The car and the public kitchen were badly damaged.

"The workers managed to escape," he said, adding that the car rammed into the kitchen and continued inside for several metres before it finally came to a halt.

The driver said he was completely taken aback to find a cow on the road. It had stepped out from behind the trees, he told police.

M.Q. hit the brakes hard but he lost control as the tyres skidded.

The windcreen shattered and fell on the driver and his passenger.

The public kitchen usually caters to large parties and conferences and specialises in local cuisine.

The staff said they were alerted by a big bang when the car first smashed into the gate. None of the staff were injured.

The officer said stray animals still remain a menace for motorists and residents and they are responsible for a large number of road accidents reported in this area.

Back Again

2008-08-20T19:01:00.005+04:00

Travelling extensively for business and for pleasure the last month.
Logged over 35,000 km and zigzagged 25 time zones.

Celebrated my birthday.

Saw and held Damian for the first time.

Business in Newfoundland with Cathexis.

Saw my brother Stephen and his boys (Tim and Peter).

Saw Mark and Cindy and their brood (Melissa and Malcolm).

Saw Ruth and Becka.
http://bodysoulandspirit.blogspot.com/2008/07/family-stuff.html

http://the-becka.blogspot.com/

Visited my oldest friend Granville (pastor at Faith Sanctuary now).

(sorry didn't take a personal photo)

Finally an R&R day at our "crowded" beach in Ras Al Khaimah.

Then off to cover Sandland for work.

And another one ....

2008-07-13T10:21:00.007+04:00

Seems that babies are falling from the sky.
First my cousin Rosy had a girl, Cassandra, in May.

Then my daughter Kira presented me with a grandson, Damian, in June.

Now my niece Damara in Mexico has made me a Great-Uncle on July 8.

Welcome to our world, Dasha Darlene.

No more in the pipeline for now it seems.

Swimming Pool

2008-06-20T17:31:00.004+04:00

Having a swimming pool here seems like a good idea considering the brutally hot summer weather.
However, even the sea heats up to 36C by August.
So, the option is to shade and chill the pool, or follow the lead of Big Mike when you have a spare bedroom.

Ambient lighting

Pool toys

Fill with people and drinks

Instant pool party!

Grandad

2008-06-07T16:37:00.005+04:00

Today I officially became a Grandad.
My daughter Kira gave birth to a son, Damian Michael Stewart.
Alex is now an uncle too (scary).

Damian arrived at a healthy 8lb 8oz's (3.86 kg), 21 inches long (53.34 cm).

A new step for all, parent, grandparents, aunts and uncles.
On my side of the family Damian has:

1 uncle (Alex)
4 great uncles (Tim, Philip, Mark, Stephen)
4 great aunts (Ruth, Cindy, Marcella, Lucy)
3 great grandparents (Eleanor, Elizabeth, David)
3 great great aunts (Lois, Ruth, Joan)
1 great great uncle (Harold)
Plus all the cascading cousins too numerous to mention.

Good luck in remembering all their names as you grow up.

Welcome to the world !!!!!!!!!!

Swimming

2008-05-25T13:35:00.007+04:00

Another visit to Wadi Wurrayah before the hot weather really hits.
It was a pleasant 36C on Friday.
Thanks to Big Mike for treading water to make the video.

Happy Birthday Lisa

2008-05-10T15:31:00.007+04:00

Our darling Lisa decided to celebrate her birthday this year is great style. She booked the Lejaine, the diving boat run by Adel, for all of us to enjoy a cruise up the coast. We arrived at dockside to a beautiful day, hot and sunny but low humidity.

The Lejaine is completely outfitted for diving and leisure cruises. Complete with a galley, rooms, showers, and a very professional crew.

First to visit and relax with friends joining us on board.

Maria and Lisa enjoying the front deck.

The captain puts us underway and we are off.

Catch a few rays.

Unfurl the mainsail.

Unfurl the jib and we are gliding soundlessly thru the water. Just the sound of the waves slapping against the hull.

Up the coast we agree on a location and drop anchor.

Open the diving room door (safety boat in tow).

And in for a swim.

Lunch is served and we ravenously dive into a delicious buffet prepared by the chef. Puff pastry cheese wedges, chicken, pasta salad, baked potatoes gratin, salmon and avocado sandwiches, fresh mini pizzas, and more.

Then the birthday cakes: opera cake, chocolate log and apple crumble cheesecake.

Afterwards we relax, some chat.

Luc gives Berit a special camera lesson.

Mikey and Kim have a trans-gender moment

The obligatory group photo with our host Adel
(4th from the right).

Hoist anchor.

And sail back thru the sunset to our harbour.

A perfect day. Thanks Lisa

Visitors from The Rock, and others

2008-05-05T13:43:00.008+04:00

The last couple of weeks have been pretty hectic, mainly around the Canadian Trade Delegation from Newfoundland. Our group in Abu Dhabi hosted 12 companies that were visiting the UAE for investment and trade opportunities.

We had the obligatory stay in a nice hotel with a view.

Dinner at Sheikh Nayahan's house.

And a visit to the Palace Hotel for the visitors.

In the midst of all that we managed to attend the wedding of Gary and Michelle.

Say goodbye (for now) to Sebastian.
(L to R: Sjoerd, Alex, Sebastian, David)
Honest, no inbreeding but "brothers" still the same.

Visit Martin and Salam to see their new daughter.

And a quick run thru Wadi Sidr (more on that later).

Bust a wheel rim and shred a tire.

Now a brief R&R and back to work.

Tolerance Follow-up

2008-04-25T10:46:00.002+04:00

In my tolerance post below several people asked, where are the synagogues.
The Jewish religion does exist here, and as a religion is tolerated.
The Muslims refer to Christians and Jews as "brothers of the book" since we share many of the same beliefs back to Abraham.
The problem they have is with the country of Israel which they don't recognize due to their violation of UN resolutions regarding their borders and treatment of the Palestinians.

The article below is from Bahrain, one of our GCC neighbours to the north.
-----------------------------------------------------------

Bahrain set to name Jewish woman envoy

By Habib Toumi, Bureau ChiefPublished: April 25, 2008, 00:46

Manama: A Jewish woman, Huda Ezra Ebrahim Nonoo, is set to become Bahrain's ambassador to Washington, sources close to diplomats told Gulf News on Thursday.
"Huda is Bahrain's nominee for the post and this is of course very good news for Bahrain's deep-rooted values of tolerance and openness," Faisal Fouladh, a Shura Council representative, and Western diplomats said.
Huda, a businesswoman, was the first Jewish woman to sit in the Shura Council, the 40-member upper house of the bicameral legislature, replacing her uncle. A Christian woman, Alice Samaan, also sits on the council which has 11 women, compared with only one woman MP, Lateefa Al Gaood, in the 40-member lower house.
Huda also is the first Jewish woman to head a rights organisation, the Bahrain Human Rights Watch. She is its secretary-general.

Muscat Trip Part Deux

2008-04-23T12:28:00.005+04:00

The adventures of Sandland Son and his friends in Oman conclude.

----------------------------------------

So we left off just as the boys and I were about to paint the town of Muscat red.

Unfortunately you are not allowed to take pictures in a lot of the bars as it is illegal for Muslims to drink; obviously most don’t want their drunken grids on the internet. Furthermore this is a “family-friendly” blog so I can’t post our exploits in any case.

The nightlife of Oman can be summed up in one word: rubbish. The bars are populated with a mixture of locals nursing their beer and ogling the dancing girls, fat expats ogling the hookers, and hookers ogling the wallets of the expats.

That being said we are professionals at finding the underground scene, and I have provided this montage which basically sums up the tone of our night.

We got up in the morning without too much trouble and decide to forgo visiting another mosque in favour of the beach. We came across a deserted beach and spent some time exploring the ancient houses dotted along the coast-line:

Then off to the beach!

While we were catching rays, a crusty old Omani fisherman drifted ashore in his boat and asked us if we wanted a tour. After paying him a handsome fee and ascertaining that he was not kidnapping us to work in his private harem, we set off:

As you can see, Sjoerd is going for another “look”, the “I’m so damn sexy I don’t need a shirt” look. He will pay for that later as I had left my sunscreen on the beach…

We left it to Sjoerd to decipher what the man was telling us but to no avail. I assured him that the fisherman was simply showing us where they drowned foreigners.

Joking aside, our guide took us to a private beach on a tiny island.

The water was perfectly clear and the sand was brilliant white.

By then it was time to head back home to dusty RAK:

Oman is a very beautiful country and while not the richest of the GCC countries, has a lower unemployment rate than all of them and through their investment in infrastructure has created a very good quality of life. I would definitely consider relocating there, as long as they let me open a bar.

And this morning ....

2008-04-22T12:16:00.004+04:00

Roundabouts are challenging to many people here. However staying in your correct lane is important, and watching the signage.

Climbing the inner circle to get a better view of the sign is not recommended.

The Weekly Commute

2008-04-21T20:41:00.006+04:00

I drive weekly between Ras Al Khaimah and Abu Dhabi, a distance of about 250 km.

Sometimes I pass thru Dubai for meetings, and also to experience the horrible traffic that is part of the experience there.

Either route I take, bypass roads or Sheikh Zayed Road, there is always lots of evidence of the driving skills that this region is renowned for. We have one of the highest death and serious injury rates in the world here.

Following too close, speeding, lane cutting are just of the few skills that refined here, especially in heavy traffic.

This week as I was leaving Dubai towards ABu Dhabi, suddenly there was a traffic jam ahead.

Soon there was the usual traffic backing up behind me.

This meant either a construction project problem or an accident.
The sound of approaching sirens indicated that it was an accident ahead.
The sight of a Medi-Vac helicopter landing told me that this was a serious one.

As I passed the accident I saw the diesel tanker, bridging the median its cab underneath the tank. An SUV with its front end crushed behind it, and a car pinned under the other side of the tanker.

The medics used the Jaws of Life to free the occupants of the car and they were wisked off in the helicopter. According to the news the injuries were serious but not life threatening.

I contemplated turning around and going back home but the radio announced that in the direction of RAK a truck had hit a bulldozer, caught fire and the road was closed.

Inch around the wreck then, continue to Abu Dhabi with no further incidents.

Not as dramatic is the 200+ car pileup of several weeks ago, but that one made CNN.

Road-Trip to Muscat

2008-04-16T13:12:00.010+04:00

I have been to the capital of Oman many times since coming to the region.
It is a nice city in beautiful region, the Omani's are friendly and as well the country is kept clean.
The entry below is by Sandland Son since his first visit looks at it from a different perspective.
----------------------------

The boys and I decided that we needed to get out of the Emirates and see something new. So we loaded up Sebastian’s trusty Mazda and started off at the ungodly hour of 8 AM (I didn’t even know there was one of those in morning as well!)

Sebastian is not much of a morning person either, so the driving was left to Sjoerd "bin" Kappel, seen here trying to capture that “Arab Taxi Driver” look.

The trip takes about 5 hours; we made good time even with some bureaucratic problems at the border crossing (e.g. Sebastian trying to explain to the border guards where Poland is - we eventually agreed that it was in Germany and they sent us on our way)

The drive is boring until you get near Muscat, where we come across one of many interesting mosques (as opposed to the boring ones back home)

After a few wrong turns and realizing that Oman, like the entire of the Middle East, has not invented road signs yet, we made it to our hotel, checked in, and headed out to Muttrah, which is the old section of the city.

After a quick lunch of shwarma pizza, Sjoerd and I decided we wanted to be proactive and climb up to the castle. Sebastian, after checking his cigarette supply agreed and we began trekking through the maze of side-streets that is Muttrah:

And here is the view from the top

Then off to the Sultan’s Palace (rumour has it that he is a bit light in the loafers… can you tell?)

Then off exploring the coastline:

We came across a group of Omani guys chilling on the beach so we stopped and had a smoke with them.

They were happy that we were enjoying their country, but told us that if we wanted to become honorary Omanis we had to dress better. So! Off to the souq! (NB: Arab, Dutch, and Polish guys discussing the do’s and dont’s of fashion is tragically funny)

That is… if we ever get by the block party!

We finally arrive at the Souq and start exploring, trying to find ways to be Omani.

Hmmm… this should do!

We totally blend in now! You would never figure out that this was actually an evil Dutchman. Sjoerd was actually worried after all the Fitna controversy, so he felt totally safe! Now to find a carpet, hopefully one of the flying variety!

No flying carpets, only authentic Iranian carpets made in China…Uh-oh!

It was a long day and we were all feeling thirsty; luckily our taxi driver noticed us panting and got us to the Crowne Plaza in record time!

And we are off to discover the night-life of Muscat.

Drag Racing - UAE Style

2008-04-08T18:27:00.005+04:00

This is the second year for the Arab Run car event.
http://www.arabrun.com/
Last year we went and it was quite casual and basically gave you a look at the parked cars.
http://adventuresinsandland.blogspot.com/2007_04_01_archive.html
This year the organizers arranged it to run thru the streets of Dubai, over to Fujairah for lunch, and then the participants could go to Emirates Motorplex in Umm Al Quwain to race on the drag strip.
http://www.motorplex.ae/
For me, going to the Motorplex evoked old memories of stock car racing (Brockville) and drag racing (Cayuga) from my youth, however the cars were slightly different this time.

There were Bugatti, Ferraris, Porsches, Mercedes, Lamborghinis, BMWs, plus the lower end cars like Ford GT, Charger SRT8, Viper and Corvettes.

They paired off in a mixture of likely/unlikely that made for interesting viewing, and added to the fact these were street legal cars, mainly with inexperienced drivers for this type of thing.

The main matchup was between the Bugatti Veyron and the Maclaren SLR. Two 12 cylinder cars with a combined value of over $1.5 million. The Bugatti won, crossing the line in just over 11 seconds, and going from 0 to 224 km/hr in a quarter mile.

The surprise of the night was a Yamaha super bike (no photo unfortunately) that beat the Ferrari, and crossed the line at 209 km/hr at under 12 seconds.

The closest race was the Charger SRT8 ($35K) versus the Ferrari ($140K). The Ferrari edged out the Charger by a 10th of a second.

All in all an entertaining evening of drag racing, UAE style.

Tolerance

2008-04-05T11:22:00.003+04:00

With all the bad press this region gets, some deserved and most exaggerated, the following news article shows the tolerant attitude we have in the UAE.

Churches and temples in the UAE

By Bassma Al Jandaly, Staff Reporter
Published: April 05, 2008, 00:34

Dubai: UAE is known for its tolerance and respect for other religions and residents can freely pray at a Hindu temple, a Christian Church or a Sikh Gurudwara.

Most non-Muslim worshippers hold their main mass or services on Fridays.

Non-Muslims can enter mosques here but are advised to wear modest clothing and women must cover their head.

The churches and temples in the UAE were built more than 35 years ago.

According to the residency law of the country, those who employ a non-Muslim domestic helper must allow the employee to visit his or her church or temple to worship at least once a week.

But no one is allowed to practice their particular beliefs in open places. However, all are allowed to celebrate their religious festival in public.

List:

Churches in the UAE

Dubai:

- Holy Trinity Church

- Saint Mary's Catholic Church

- United Christian Church of Dubai

- Emirates Baptist Church Int'l

- Church of Jesus Christ of Latterday Saints

- The Deira Brethren Assembly

- Mar Thoma Church

- Mar Ignatius Church

- Miracle Hands Ministry

- New Covenant Church Dubai

Jebel Ali:

- St Francis of Assisi Church

- The Church of the Anglican

- Diocese of Cyprus and the Gulf

- Marthomite church

Sharjah:

- Saint Martin's Church

- Saint Michael's Catholic Church

- CSI Parish

- Congregation of the Church of South India

- Miracle Hands Ministry

Fujairah:

- Church of our Lady of Perpetual Help

Umm Al Quwain:

- Miracle Hands Ministry

Ras Al Khaimah:

- St Mary's Catholic Church

Abu Dhabi:

- Arab Evangelical Church.

- Evangelical Community Centre

- St George Orthodox Church

- St Joseph's Roman Catholic Church

- Saint Andrew's Church

- Miracle Hands Ministry

Al Ain:

- St Mary's Catholic Church

- Anglican Church Services

- Evangelical Church of Al Ain

Goats and Gardens

2008-04-04T15:35:00.004+04:00

Goats in the region are endemic, and they pose many problems here.
Most of the time they are a nuisance, rooting in the garbage, wandering on the roads, climbing in trees. They fall in several classes, wandering herds that are foraging, feral goats and the true wild goats.

The ones in our neighborhood fall in the first two classes.

The other day the gate to our courtyard was left slightly ajar, and a group of goats pushed their way into the courtyard.

We had established a small collection of plants and herbs which was obviously attractive to them.

Our housemate, Cheryl, sent me an email (I was in Abu Dhabi) with her synopsis of the situation.

Good news is that goats don’t like:

1. Basil
2. Scented geraniums
3. Climbing ‘weeds’

They sort of like:

1. Petunias
2. Tree with yellow flowers
3. Roses
4. Poinsettas (which are poisonous so maybe at least one of them will get a belly ache!)
5. Maria’s two big plants

The bad news is that they LOVE:

1. Ageratums

2. Tree with red flowers
3. Sweet peas
4. Jasmine
5. Dill
6. Parsley
7. Coriander
8. Daisies

Lesson learned – I think they’ve discovered our yard as having tasty treats now, so the gate needs to show no DAYLIGHT. If Cheryl hadn’t heard a ‘baa’, I think they would have totally eaten all our plants!

Wadi Wurayya - revisited

2008-03-23T15:56:00.013+04:00

The last several weekends we have been further exploring one of the Fujairah areas, Wadi Wurayya.
I covered the first section of this wadi in a previous post.
This is one the few areas that has running water year round, and has pools and cascades that you can swim in.
The water also has small fish, frogs, dragonflies and other denizens.
The route into the wadi is rough and rocky but after several kilometers it is worth the trip.

This time we covered the final kilometer in the Jeeps that got increasingly rough, finally terminating in a pool. At this point the wadi narrowed so that no more driving could be done and the rest to be traversed on foot.

As we walked and scrambled up the wadi, each turn was a different view and mixture of rock and scenery.

Beautiful rock formations, strange drippings and water pools from the damp to waist high wading.

We had several difficult cascades to climb until we reached the end where we could go no further.

There was a semi-cavern of cold spring water about 4 meters deep that was fed by a small cascade at the end.

We climbed as high as possible above this spot to see the view below.

A trudge back and a promise to return before the heat of summer to further explore this area.

Happy Easter to all.

Rest In Peace, Kato

2007-10-02T20:18:00.000+04:00

Today marks the passing of our "big guy" dog, Kato.

We took him from the SPCA in France, after he had been rescued from a dog fighting ring.

At that time we did not know what a Japanese Tosa Inu breed was, but his soulful eyes and gentle manner won us over.

The funny thing was that we were looking for a kitten and already had another dog, so we ended up with Kato and the kitten, Nova.

The two became close friends and I know Nova and Othello will miss him, like the rest of us.

Facebook

2007-08-18T13:09:00.000+04:00

Followed my sister (must be getting old) and am playing in the Facebook sandbox.
Yet another way to be consumed/distracted.

We will see.

"The object of life is not to be on the side of the majority, but to escape finding oneself in the ranks of the insane." Marcus Aurelius

The Road Less Travelled

2007-08-18T01:30:00.000+04:00

A bright and sunny day and it was time to go to Dibba.

Wadi Baih beckoned and the route over the top (5000 ft) seemed the right way to go.

Sandland Son needed more practice off-roading so off we went.

New Jeep Unlimited in front leading the way.

A stop in a valley to spit the dust out before going on.

Canyons get very narrow and single file is the only way.

However a brief lapse of concentration and the result ....

Piled rock walls are in the wadi that are remnants of the farm terraces that once were.

Imposable barriers except for the Jeep and its solid frame.

First wall was scattered but the second one proved too much.

Tow strap applied ...

And we are out.

A couple of bent tie rods, dented oil pan and a battered front transfer case.

And a dent in SLS bank account but minimized by the fairness of Abdullah's 70's garage.

And then the beach beckons.

Not usually political ...

2007-06-10T00:53:00.000+04:00

The demonstrators protesting the G* summit have a right to free speech and freedom of expression in our Western world. And they should appreciate it.

However, they should be grateful the the G8 leaders are actually meeting each other and talking together. We usually know that people talking are not fighting, and people talking might also agree to solutions.

Better for all of us whether you agree or not.

On the other hand, the protestors should also study physics and not put small boats in front of large poorly manouverable object. You get what you deserve when you are stupid.

(three Greenpeacer's injured, no fatalities)

Wadi Ghalilah

2007-06-10T00:17:00.000+04:00

After the storm blew over we had a unique day for this time of year. Light clouds, no humidity, and not so hot. Time to put the top down and do the last run before summer.

This wadi is the most rugged for us to run, and resembles moonscape at times.
A teeth jarring ride and a rough hike at the end.

As always there are the ever present goats (SLS friends), climbing sure-footed everywhere.

The wadi is well hidden and requires some knowledge of the area to find this special branch.

We arrive still intact.

The cliffs and the solitude at the end are its own reward. And no phone coverage.
Silence except for nature and the rocks.

Cyclone Gonu

2007-06-07T22:39:00.001+04:00

We have just survived the worst storm in recorded history hitting the Oman coast and continuing up to Iran. Winds over 200 km/h (Google it).

The sea has gone from bathtub calm two weeks ago at Snoopy Island (see post below), to waves running up to 5 meters.

The mid-afternoon sun is obscured by the sand and the dust. Humidity is over 80%. Here on the other side of the mountains we had unique swirling winds and near zero sandstorm conditions.

But at the end of the day the dust and humidity clears and the mountains are clear for now.

And the boys are off running ........ waste no time for the weekend.

Snoopy Island

2007-05-27T23:25:00.000+04:00

The sun dawned on another bright and sunny day and a short 60 minute drive puts us on the Indian Ocean (Gulf of Oman), at our favourite snorkelling spot, Snoopy Island.

After the sunrise the guests of the local hotel, Sandy Beach, emerge to enjoy the unique Snoopy-shaped island that is also a beautiful marine preserve.

The underwater photos are courtesy of diving friends but are not enough to do justice to the beauty below.

We were swarmed with all types including tiny wraithes, parrot fish, grouper, barracuda (small), mullet, yellow discus, puffers and many others we could not identify.

Afterward we "roughed" it on the beach, ordering our beverages and sandwiches as we relaxed in the breeze.

If you ever need a break, this place is highly recommended. A quaint mixture of motel rooms and bungaloes on the beach.

Charger - Reprise

2007-05-07T18:59:00.000+04:00

What has become an annual event, I have to replace my vehicle as I change contracts. Not a bad deal but still something to do.
(See last year's post
http://adventuresinsandland.blogspot.com/2006/07/charger.html)

We went to the Chrysler dealer in Sharjah to leave my Jeep for an inspection and then test some cars. Since we had to leave the Jeep overnight they offered us a demo unit so SLS pressured me to take the new Charger.

A quick run up the highway back to Ras Al Khaimah, but we kept it under 200 kmh between the new radar cameras.

Then SLS enjoyed driving it around the next day before it was returned.

SLS loves this car.

May Day, Changes, Getting Hotter

2007-05-01T14:04:00.000+04:00

To all my working friends in Europe and other places, have a good Workers Day holiday. Here we celebrate by just working, but next year they propose to celebrate May 1 too.

I am now working in the UAE capital, Abu Dhabi, most of the time. I represent a Canadian company from Newfoundland, Cathexis, and are doing a project with a group called CERT here.

It covers RFID, Bluetooth and telematics. Good tech areas that I like.

Here are the links for those interested.

www.cathexis.com
www.certonline.com

Abu Dhabi is a beautiful city and much more relaxed than Dubai.

It is about 250 km south of Ras Al Khaimah so a bit far for a daily commute. So as many do I book a room in a villa and work it out.

If funds were no problem I would stay at the Emirates Palace Hotel. A top hotel to rival the Burj Al Arab. Rooms start at $550 USD and range up to $13000 USD per night.

For now I just take photos.
http://www.emiratespalace.com/en/main.htm

The summer is giving us early warning (more than usual) and it is up to 43C (109F) today, and the humidity is starting to build. Oh well, our reverse winter.

And for something different, my niece has photoshopped me into Ontario.
http://the-becka.blogspot.com/2007/04/and-now-for-something-completely.html

Autorun

2007-04-29T11:38:00.000+04:00

This weekend a group of car enthusiasts organized an event called Autorun.
Starting from the desert resort Bab Al Shams they drove to the Dubai Autodrome, and then afterwards to The Fairmont in Dubai. Each participant paid 10,000 dirham (about $2700 USD) to enter, and there were approximately 100 cars in all.

They ranged from the Bugatti Veyron, the most expensive and fastest street legal car in the world, a myriad of Ferraris, Porsches and Mercedes, and one Chevy Lumina (go figure).

Many had been modified by specialists like Hamann as well as local garages.

My favourites were the Cobra’s that sat on either side of a Ferrari 599 GTB (SLS favourite).

Of course there were agency girls there for the major sponsors, Exotic Cars and Red Bull.

Another small sponsor, Aquatic Style, decided to match their girls with a pimp style guy (Gunther lookalike), altogether a strange combination.

As we left we passed this unknown car (kit car maybe?), outside and alone.

Dhaya Fort

2007-04-21T09:01:00.000+04:00

Dhaya Fort, to the north of our city was the last fort to fall to the British in 1819. The entire story not on the signboard was that the local Sheikh was determined to exact the maximum effort from the invaders. The British ships cannons could not reach the fort so they had to be taken off, dragged over thousands of meters of mud flats and sand, in extreme heat, to only fire a few shots.

After his surrender the Sheikh earned the respect of the British and continued to rule his area.

The fort is in two parts, on top of the hill (well restored)

and the remnants of the town fort below.

The views from the top are impressive, either as a vista or the turret eye view.

The lower fort has eroded to create an interesting visage looking out to what it once protected.

Getting Hotter

2007-04-12T15:24:00.000+04:00

We went over the 38C mark to 40C this week. Fortunately it is still dropping into the mid 20s at night, and the cold water taps still deliver cool water.

But this is warning of the summer season to come.

For my American friends, it went up to 104F cooling off to about 80F at night.

Details here: http://www.wunderground.com/global/stations/41184.html

Dunes and Camels

2007-04-11T15:02:00.000+04:00

The southern portion of our emirate gives way from rocks and wadis to sand dunes more common with the rest of UAE.

The previous post covered one of the areas where the 4x4 events are, although off-roading is everywhere here.

Also in this area is our camel track which is 5 kilometer loop.

This winter has been exceptionally wet and much of the desert has a green coating as a result.
When we drive to the top of the big dunes in the middle of the race track it gives an unusual view.

As usual the camels are not amused.

Al Wafi Festival

2007-04-08T17:15:00.000+04:00

One of the craziest winter festivals here is held in Ras Al Khaimah, the Al Wafi Festival.

It is a loosely organized event for a couple of weeks in the desert with a mixture of cultural events, but mainly 4x4 fun.

In one area of high dunes the quad bikes go nuts, and at the base they lay a rough patch of asphalt.

All of us race thru the sand and climb the dunes in impromptu competitions, as well as organized events.

The asphalt boys then show off how they can spin and burn in their expensive Land Cruisers, Patrols, and other SUV’s.

Most modified like my memory of the 70’s hot rodders in Canada. Several caught fire, many tires were blown and a few spectators were injured.

But otherwise an adrenaline charged event.

Desert In Bloom

2007-04-07T19:48:00.000+04:00

Following my post of Dec.12 there is an after effect of all the rain we have received this year. The most in over 10 years.
First there was the open pit mine that was filled with water after only 24 hours of rain. Now it is mostly empty and you can see the cabin and oil tank now in their right place, no longer floating.

The most beautiful after effect are the wadi’s in bloom.

Millions of lavender flowers have sprung up and in places we are waist deep in them.

Bees everywhere and the dust is held at bay at least for now.

But in the end the cows and goats continue with their foraging habits, although they are much fatter than last year.

Farewell to 2006

2007-01-01T13:34:00.000+04:00

2006 is at an end with all its memories and experiences, good and bad.

2007 is a new beginning and will soon usher in the lunar New Year of the Pig, hopefully fat and full of success.

We are relaxing in Sitges before our return to the UAE.

The cool weather and Mediterranean sunsets a nice change.

Hope all of you reach your dreams and ambitions in the coming year.

Busy !!!!

2006-12-12T10:07:00.000+04:00

I have got a few "pings" wondering why no updates recently.
Unfortunately my work has got in the way of fun, and this is the reason.

For my IT friends, we have just entered the Go Live phase of the SAP implementation for my Free Zone client. This is the culmination of 18 months of planning and development.
The biggest challenge in the end is the people, and in this case it is very true. They are going from a paper based process to an enterprise class online system, virtually overnight.
Lots of training, lots of work, not a lot of fun.

On the other hand we have had winter rains arrive in exceptional fashion, recording 63 mm of rain in three days last week. That is 50% of the annual average. For the non-metric readers that is about 2.5".

Not a lot of water for most of you but here the ground is rock hard, the streets have no drainage system, and waterproofing is not a strong consideration when building houses.

We did take a short drive out to Wadi Baih to see the report of 300 meters of road washed away overnight.

And large gravel pit, about 10 meters deep, completely full of water runoff from the mountains. In the middle of the "lake" was the port-a-cabin bunkhouse floating and the fuel tanker for the heavy equipment floating also. The heavy equipment was completely submerged.

Many traffic accidents as people here do not understand hydro-planing very well until they strike an immovable object.

What I Do ....

2006-11-27T11:08:00.000+04:00

Although this blog is mainly about personal life in the UAE, I do have work here that supports the fun times. Mainly I am running a consulting enterprise (small) that does project management and business development. This covers the range from SAP implementations to the development and launch of an Offshore Registry (like Cayman and Isle of Mann).

The Offshore Registry we launched in September is getting a lot of attention, and SLS is now a legal consultant working with that "product".

We regularly have country delegations arrive to meet with our Free Zone and our Chairman, H. H. Crown Prince Sheikh Faisal bin Saqr al Qasimi. Most recently we received the Prime Minister of the Isle of Mann and his team to discuss collaborations between them and Ras Al Khaimah.

After the meeting there was the exchange of gifts,

and of course the photos.

Laptops and clouds

2006-11-24T10:34:00.000+04:00

The gap in posts has been caused by the death of my trusty laptop, the Compaq Evo. It has outlasted the company that created it, but finally the video circuit went. So there was the acquisition of an Acer, extraction of the hard drive, and finally back on-line and catching up.
Fortunately Murphy did not strike and take my mobile phone at the same time.

Winter has finally arrive with the daytime temperature dropping into the 20's and falling into the teens at night. Carrefour has put out winter coats for sale (really!).
We have also had our first overcast days and a couple of night time rains.
Stop laughing my readers in Spokane and Kitchener.

To give an example of the impact of rain, the news link below is about Ajman, the emirate 50 km south of us.
http://www.khaleejtimes.com/DisplayArticleNew.asp?section=theuae&xfile=data/theuae/2006/november/theuae_november520.xml

Finally, Happy Thanksgiving to all my American friends. Enjoy the three F's (Family, Food, Football) and eat lots of ham for us.

Beach Clean-Up

2006-11-13T22:35:00.000+04:00

This past weekend myself and SLS participated in the international coastal clean-up for our region. Working during the day, ourselves and a group from the schools, diving association and sailing club cleaned up a 300 meter section of our coast.

The result was 130 bags of debris (mainly bottles and plastic), and 5 huge bonfires of burnable material (mainly wood scraps).

We all agree that this region needs to start learning how to take care of it's environment, but it all starts with little steps.

But in the end we reverted to ourselves and celebrated our inflated civic pride with a BBQ and relaxation.

The other emirates were also involved.
http://www.khaleejtimes.com/DisplayArticleNew.asp?xfile=data/theuae/2006/November/theuae_November308.xml§ion=theuae&col=

Guy Fawkes

2006-11-06T22:15:00.000+04:00

With our considerable British (Commonwealth) community here we have the annual Guy Fawkes celebration here (see Wikipedia for the un-informed).

The kids all brought their Guy's to the sailing club,

and then they were lit in great tradition by the Commodore.

As they burned all cheered as the conflagration engulfed them.

Soon all was consumed and the flames flared into the night.

The party continued into the night and mass quantities of all excesses were consumed.

No Pearls :(

2006-11-06T20:08:00.000+04:00

We needed to get some money so a pearl expedition was in order. And the Persian Gulf seemed like the right venue.

Near the bulk container port (Port Saqr) is a reef from the remains of concrete buildings that have been pushed into the sea. At first glance a mess, but over the years the sea has reclaimed it and it is full of sea life, including oysters.

(Jaspenelle, many of the fancy shells you have, like the comb shell come from this beach.)

So. after a couple of hours of diving, and pulling sea urchin spines from various body parts. we had a small haul of oysters.

In the end no pearls, but a yummy oyster snack with lemon and tabasco.

Stress Release

2006-10-27T22:49:00.000+04:00

At the end of a week, one of the advantages of being on the edge of the countryside and also having a Jeep, is the ability to run off and release the stress.

Wadi Sheba has many small branches and each turn brings a new discovery.

There are remains of farms and also makeshift shelters for the goat herders that are made in the small caves in the wadi walls.

In the larger expanse of the valley, the mountains rise to end the drive.

Rock climbing has always been something I love, but here in the UAE it can be challenging. The rocks and cliffs are numerous, but the danger is the crumbling nature of the rock. Many years of heat and dryness make it risky in many places.

Spotting an interesting spire standing alone on high, the challenge was too much to resist.

Once reached the rock formation was incredible,

and the other reward was a view to remember.

The descent was as challenging as the climb, and the acacia trees were no use for a handhold.

They have thorns that protect them from the browsers such as goats and donkeys.
Now for a relaxing evening and ready for the week ahead.

Eid and the end of Ramadan

2006-10-27T20:44:00.000+04:00

The Eid Al Fitr holiday marks the end of Ramadan and is a time for friends and family to get togther. Sort of like a Thanksgiving event. During this holiday period many people converge on Dubai and Abu Dhabi to meet people, shop and sightsee. Since the majority of people were heading south we decided to head north to Musandam.

The sun rose over the mountains as we planned an early start.
The drive was spectacular and the rocks continue to amaze each time I visit. They are contured by years of wind,

and water,

and in recent times by man.

We stopped at Bukha fort for lunch.

In the end we all relaxed on the beach, snorkeled around the rocks and pools,

and the kids built a sandcastle.

Finally it was time to pack it all up and head back.

Happy Eid Al Fitr.

Sheba Wadi

2006-10-22T07:49:00.000+04:00

The weekend arrives and time to head out, this time towards the wadi the contains the remnants of Sheba Palace.

No, not the Queen of Sheba but an ancient family called Sheba that once had a palace on one of the hills.

All that is left is part of the central room and one can see the outlines of the walls that once surrrounded the buildings and grounds.

Then onward into the wadi so that SLS can continue his training as a wadi basher.

First there is the bump and roll (Quicktime) as we go deeper into the wadi.

Then there is the run out onto the flat as he emerges
And pass by the original off-road transport.

Goats in trees (maybe a movie hiding somewhere here).

Then home to our dumpster diving goats.

Did I mention we have a lot of goats wandering around here?

Happy Birthday Albert

2006-10-13T12:21:00.000+04:00

Albert, our favourite person in RAK, with the best j0b as manager of Centaurus, just celebrated his birthday.
His friends collected at the sailing club to have a BBQ and pasta night, along with a few libations.

Then he got his birthday wish.

May the coming year be even better mon ami.

First Impressions

2006-10-08T21:43:00.000+04:00

We spent a quiet weekend, recovering after weeks of non-stop activities.
No adventures, just visiting with friends and doing little else.
Finally …….

But this week was the first visit to the “big city” for SLS.
He captured his first impressions of things being built along Sheikh Zayed Road,

Iconic structures like Burj Al Arab,

And modern style of the Fairmont,

And then return through the desert of endless sand.

Local News

2006-10-03T09:34:00.000+04:00

Sometimes the news stories here are unusual.
----------------------------------------------
>> News >>
Maid caught before black magic could ‘control’ employer
By Sadiq A. Salam 3 October 2006

RAS AL KHAIMAH — A UAE national says he has managed to save his home from the spell of black magic in the nick of time. His Asian housemaid allegedly tried to place a totem in his house so that she could ‘control’ her employers.
A few days ago, the maid gave her sponsor a letter, written in her mother tongue, to be sent to her family in her home country. Before dropping it at the post office, the man had a doubt and requested a person to translate the letter into Arabic.
"The person told me that in the letter, the maid asked a family member to send her a new totem because the earlier one had been ineffective," said the UAE national on condition of anonymity.
The domestic help allegedly told her family that she planned to mix the totem with food or dinks in order to control the man or his wife.
The employer reported the case to the authorities and they ordered that the woman be deported.
"I have disclaimed all my legal rights and cancelled her labour contract," he added.
This case is apparently not one-off. The law enforcement authorities here have been receiving complaints from several families claiming that their housemaids are placing totems in different parts of their houses and adding strange items that are believed to have magic powers to the food items and drinks served to them.
The totems, it is said, are mostly in the form of stones, animal bones, dried leaves and branches or even strange drawings and writings on papers hidden in various corners."They reported to us that they found some talismans carefully concealed in various parts of their houses or added to foodstuff and drinks," a senior official of the RAK Police Department told Khaleej Times.

Driving Lesson

2006-10-02T11:30:00.000+04:00

Time to start the off-road experience so it was off to Wadi Al Baih to test SLS in the Jeep.

There is a project to build a road through one branch of the wadi, however it gets well squeezed between the cliff walls as you proceed.

The end of the road is reached, no where to go but down.

Lock the wheels in, plow through the sand, rocks and dirt and we arrive.
SLS is a natural in the Jeep, nary a glitch in the shift.

Where exactly is an old “farm”, mainly abandoned, with the remains of a stone shelter still standing.

There is also the old graveyard which is traditional Arabic, a simple stone marking the head and no inscription or other marking.

Climb up,

Then examine the view and continue on.

SLS is now hooked on 4WD although his heart will always belong to other vehicles.

Finally we rinse the dust from our throats at the sailing club as dusk falls.

The Arrival of Sand Land Son

2006-09-24T16:14:00.000+04:00

Thursday night arrived hot and humid, ideal for an open top Jeep ride to Dubai to collect Sand Land Son (SLS). We left Dubai behind quickly and struck out cross the desert to the far and distant Ras Al Khaimah.

Friday started the weekend and also marked the last day before the start of Ramadan.
One last chance for eating, drinking and music without thought.

A full schedule of visiting and BBQ’s, and making plans for Saturday.

SLS wrote a brief email which summarizes his first weekend below.
---------------------------------------------------------------------
Hey all,Just wanted to let you guys know that I have arrived safely in the UAE and am now living in Ras Al Khaimah, which is about 100 km north of Dubai (I think) It is really really hot here, 38 degrees most days but everyone seems to be as sweaty as me so no worries there.
The country is quite strange, I don't think I experienced my first bout of "culture shock" until I went to the grocery store (Carrefour, a French chain) and was surrounded at one point by a bunch of women in abayas and chadors and all the men in dish-dashes (the white robes). However the shock quickly subsided when I found Velveeta shells and cheese and root beer and Oscar Mayer salami... All the stuff I could not find in Europe. :-)
I've made a bunch of new friends already, especially with some South African guys who are awesome. The ex-pat community is pretty close-knit. In two days we have gone to the beach,

gone snorkelling, hung out at the sailing club (climbed on a dhow under construction),

dug for clams, eaten at a proper Italian restaurant, had a party/BBQ with lots of beer (in case you were wondering about that, yes alcohol is available and cheaper than anywhere else I've been in the world and they have Molson and Labatt's!!!), and gone bowling.
I think the coolest thing so far was being at the Arab fish auction and bidding on fish that had just been dragged from the boats. The Arab auctioneers/barkers sound more or less the same as their English-speaking equivalent, strange as that may seem, I think they have their own language. But it was a situation completely foreign to me, and it was the first time in a long time that I felt like I was in a society completely alien to what I know, which makes living here all the more exciting.

Autumn (?) is coming

2006-09-21T13:33:00.000+04:00

During the last couple of weeks, the searing grip of summer has been loosening. The humidity is now below 50% on a regular basis, and we can begin to see the sky without its perpetual haze.

Although the day time temperature is still reaching 40C, we will soon reach the first day in over 3 months when it drops below 38C (100F) and the winter season can be anticipated.

One of the first signs of summer's end is the return of flies and other insects. They retreat/hibernate in the summer which is one of the few summer benefits here.

The next sign is the return of the predators, as I caught a glimpse of one on my Jeep antenna.

Ramadan is coming

2006-09-21T09:08:00.000+04:00

Moon-sighting panel meets tomorrow

ABU DHABI — Justice Minister Mohammed bin Nakhira Al Dhahiri has set up a Ramadan moon-sighting committee, which will meet tomorrow. The committee will be headed by the justice minister himself, while its members are: Justice Ministry Under-Secretary Sultan Al Badi, Federal High Court judge Al Siddique Abul Hassan,Senior Judicial Inspector at the Justice Ministry Salim Ali Al Hossani, Head of the Abu Dhabi Primary Shariah Court Ahmed Al Za’abi, Preacher at the Dubai Department of Islamic Affairs Ahmed Al Ahdel, Chairman of the Emirates Astronomy Association Khalfan Al Nuaimi, Chairman of the Amateur Astronomers Group Sakhr Saif and Member of the Emirates Astronomy Association Mohammed Odah. The committee will meet tomorrow after Maghreb prayers at the Shariah Judiciary Department in Abu Dhabi.

Ramadan work hours

DUBAI — All ministries and federal government departments will work from 9am to 2pm during the holy month of Ramadan, according to the ministerial decrees no (16) of 1998 and no (21) of 2006.

Sailing Class

2006-09-17T19:04:00.000+04:00

The new season is upon us so it is time to prepare for the upcoming regattas at the sailing club.

This year it is time to take proper classes so that at least we know how to act and talk like sailors.
Part of our usual gang of cutthroats decided to abscond to the big city this weekend to scout out the booty in the Abu Dhabi malls.
Wonders to be behold.

Inspired by Pirates of the Caribbean, we signed up to the mast with Captain “Black” Barbara to learn the intricacies of the Art of the Ancient Mariner.

Soon we were avasting and ahoying, and well versed in the art of tying the Figure 8 and Bowline. Then it was on to the sheet, the forestay, the block, until we could walk with bowed legs and rolling gait to the boat.

Soon we were tossed on the tempest of the sea as we tacked and jibbed our way through the maze of the khor,

and strange floating objects.

Then we could safely come ashore and enjoy the sea breeze as the class ended.

Then off to find some grub and grog at the local pub,

Charm the wenches,

While defending the fort.

Weekend done.

Al Jeer - Addendum

2006-09-11T13:17:00.000+04:00

A few additional items from the weekend arrived today which you can download from the links below.

We have basement music recordings of Nalin,

NothingAtAll.mp3

BlackMagicWoman.mp3

and more photos from Frank.
More Beach Photos

Al Jeer

2006-09-10T13:44:00.000+04:00

The end of summer is beckoning and we decided to make a beach picnic and snorkeling day at Al Jeer beach. A pleasant 41C day arrived and we wove our way through the throngs exiting the local mosque.

Once there we required coordinated activity to establish our beachhead on the “crowded” beach.

The first swim and after checking out the reef, all fishes, urchins and mermaids are in order, so return to shore.

Lunch is devoured and the rest of the afternoon is spent in leisure recreation.

Our newest RAK resident, Frank, provides us with the Monaco flavour (at least the wine).

Sri Lankan musicians round out the group, along with the usual suspects.

As the day ends we race to Hulaya Island to dig for clams,

and then to the fish market to complete the hunting for dinner.

Shrimp and crabs in tow, Frank leads the bag toters back to the cars.

The 7UP queen rules as clams and crab are steamed, while the BBQ king grills the shrimp and ribs.

The formal dinner ensues. Best manners everyone.

The neighbours look on in amusement.

Then the musical tones of Nalin (try and keep up Nic).

Perfect.

Dibba (Musandam) Dive

2006-09-02T16:12:00.000+04:00

The day began dark, it was 5:00 AM, at 6:00 we left for the rendezvous at the dive center.

Of course some of us are better morning persons than others. (I am not going until I am awake)

The trip to Dibba was uneventful and we arrived at the Oman port for the dhow trip up the east coast of the Musandam.

http://personal.telefonica.terra.es/web/faraway-quest/dibba.zip
(collection of photos, unedited, for our companions on the trip - 24 MB)

Divers, snorkeller's and various hanger-ons lined the dock, sorting out gear and boat assignments.

We left the port and shortly afterward realized the cooling cloud cover also provided a rough sea.

http://personal.telefonica.terra.es/web/faraway-quest/dhow.3gp
(Quicktime mini movie)

We pitched and rolled up the coast, and most opted to relax and sleep in defense.

Finally we reached the entrance of the destination cove and calmer water beckoned.

Beautiful clear turquoise water beckoned and we all plunged in (except the queasy).

Some preferred less strenuous activities.

During a break we relaxed, traded stories (cette une blague avec une belle poitrine) and waited for lunch.

Lunch arrived prepared by the BBQ king, and Ayub examined the other mysteries of the table.

Some opted for safer packaging, but all was enjoyed.

Afternoon session began with a fashion statement, fear of the big jump, and further exploration of the coral beds below.

Prepare for the trip back.

Pointing out.

Some chose sleep,

some preferred a party.

Calmer water allowed easy viewing of our sister ship and the sea caves in the cliffs.

All eventually succumbed (my blanky).

And then a sunset to close the day.

Wadi Wurrayah

2006-08-27T18:01:00.000+04:00

The weekend has gone but the memory of splashing in fresh water surrounded by wadi walls still lingers.
Friday dawned hot and sunny (what else) and we took off across the mountains to the emirate of Fujairah, on the Gulf of Oman.

Once there we meandered down the coast past the Bidiyah mosque (oldest in UAE),

following the directions of the Off Road guide (2.4 km then right) otherwise not knowing where we were to go.
Back we went into Wadi Wurrayah which was said to have a waterfall and rock pools for swimming in.
Eventually we came to the branch that seemed the right one,

locked into 4 wheel drive and proceeded. Much hysteria in the Jeep as we rocked and bounced over rocks, quite exceeding any amusement park ride.

Ergo, big toys for big boys.
Half an hour later we made the 3 km trip, and as promised, water was falling from the rocks. A few vehicles were there with people cavorting in the main pool.

We climbed up the rocks to the wadi above the falls

and there were small pools of crystal clear water, gurgling around rocks before tumbling down to form the cascade below.

The final pool had acquired the natural shape of a tub,

and small fish (plecostoma) tickled your feet as they nibbled in curiousity.

We shared the space briefly with a Nigerian couple, and then all to ourselves.

While they enjoyed a soak and algae rub,

I climbed the cliff above

to enjoy the view of natural beauty.

Then fresh fruit lunch from our hamper, pack up and bounce our way back to the road.

Head to the beach to enjoy a late lunch, relax and swim as the sun starts to slide down on a perfect day.

Mall of the Emirates

2006-08-22T11:08:00.000+04:00

Readers wanted to know, snow in the Emirates?

Well, since yesterday was a holiday, and it was 44c (112F) and 90% humidity, a trip to Dubai seemed in order.

The first destination was Mall of the Emirates which allowed a little shopping at Carrefoure (pork products), a meeting with a business colleague, and a refreshing look at snow.

Since it was a holiday the line up to go into the snow area was long so we simply gazed through the windows.

Mall of the Emirates is the worlds largest mall outside of North America (6.5 million sq ft), and includes shops, entertainment, 5 star hotel and an indoor ski area. The statistics for the ski area are as follows:

22,500m² covered with real snow all year round – (equivalent to 3 football fields)
Temperature maintained at a comfortable -1Cº to -2Cº
85 meters high (approximately 25 stories) and 80 meters wide
5 different runs of varying difficulty and length, longest run of 400 meters
Full capacity of 1500 guests
Snickers Freestyle zone
Permanent: 1/4 pipe snowboard area
3,000m² Snow Park with a snow cavern
Quad chairlift, tow lift and flying carpets

Of course they have full equipment rental including boots, coats, gloves, etc.
Change from your sandals and dishdash to alpine togs in minutes.

For the further curious here is their web link.
http://www.malloftheemirates.com/

Isra’a Wal Mi’raj

2006-08-21T08:37:00.000+04:00

Holiday today:
The Prophet Mohammed's (PBUH) journey from Makkah to Jerusalem and his ascension to Heaven (12th Rajab 1427).

So we will journey to Dubai to find snow (Mall of the Emirates) and maybe go snowboarding. I wonder what he would think.

Al Jeer

2006-08-19T22:20:00.000+04:00

On the northern border of Ras Al Khaimah is the small town of Al Jeer. This is the last place before crossing over the Oman border to the Musandam.
The beach is flat and sandy, perfect for the fishermen to pull in their boats and nets.
The rock breakwater surrounding the harbour is also excellent for snorkelling.

On the beach is an abandoned fort that has been used for different purposes over the years.
The last function was as a police garrison and jail.
We have been examining it for restoration potential and possible future use as a guest house.

As you see it is fairly bleak but located between the mountain and the sea it is in a beautiful location.

Climbing on top of the tower we discover the remains of a shaded sleeping area and a view of the Gulf.

We spend the afternoon swimming and snorkelling and then finish with a BBQ on the beach.
Fresh fish for all including the feral cats that steal from you the instant when you turn your back.

Then sunset view before going home. Another weekend done.

You know you've been in UAE too long when...

2006-08-15T12:02:00.000+04:00

(The list below will only be really funny when you have been here)

- You're not surprised to see a goat in the passenger seat or a camel in a pick up
- You think everyone's first name is Al
- You need a sweater when it's 20 degrees Centigrade
- You expect everyone to own a mobile phone
- Your idea of housework is leaving a list for the maid
- You believe that speed limits are only advisory
- You expect all police to drive BMWs or Merc's
- You know whether you are within missile range of Iraq and Iran
- You believe that the definition of a nanosecond is the time interval between the time the light shifts from red to yellow to green and the time that the guy behind you begins to blow his horn
- You can't buy anything without asking for a discount (habibi, best price)
- You have more carpets than floor space
- You expect all stores to stay open till midnight
- You expect the convenience store clerk to come out to your car when you blow your horn
- You make left turns from the far right lane, or vice versa
- You expect gold for every birthday
- You send friends a map instead of your address
- You think it perfectly normal to have a picnic in the middle of a roundabout at 11pm
- You know exactly how much alcohol allowance you have left for the month (Dubai) and the code names for the open license stores
- You have a moon phase predictor on your computer
- You never say Saturday instead of Thursday or Sunday instead of Friday
- When you expect queues to be 1 person deep and 40 people wide
- When you realise that the black and white stripes in the road are not a zebra crossing, just bait to get tourists into the firing line
- When you know what night is ladies night at every bar in town
- When seeing guys welcome each other with a kiss no longer surprises you
- When you carry 12 passport size photos around with you just in case
- When you can tell the time by listening to the local mosque,
- When you start to say "Insha'allah" when you actually mean "No *$*^% chance!"
- When you overtake a police car at 140 kph
- When a problem with your car AC or horn is more serious to you than a problem with the brakes
- When you can smoke a shisha in public without expecting to be arrested

and

- You accept that there is no point in asking why you are not allowed to do something

Al Ain

2006-08-10T16:06:00.000+04:00

Al Ain is an ancient desert oasis in the centre of the UAE, close to the Oman border. It is the major source of dates in the country. It also has one of the highest mountain peaks, Jebel Hafeet, that rises dramatically over 1500 meters in the desert. It is unique in the fact that the surrounding land is very flat and has natural source springs that are used for date palm irrigation.

Dan and Murat picking dates in the central oasis.

Take your old truck, flatten the tires and turn it into a goat pen.

Al Ain fort and museum.

Armour exhibit in the Al Ain museum.

View over the desert from on high.

Murat on top of the world, or at least the desert.

When you are Sheikh you can have a villa on high.

The green of the city, date palms gardens everywhere.

By night the lights of Jebel Hafeet rise on the horizon.

Sailing Club - The Reprise

2006-08-06T13:34:00.000+04:00

Quiet weekend as planned mainly shifting Lisa into her new villa, and then relaxing at the sailing club. Our friends from RAK Airways (new startup) joined us as one of them had a birthday, and it seemed like the place to do it.

All were impressed by our understated elegance, and attention to decor.

The kids built sandcastles, waded and splashed, while the "adults" kibitzed and enjoyed until it was dusk.

The mixture was divers, sailors, artists and hangers-on.
Then trundle off into the sunset and the start of a new week.

Sailing Club

2006-08-02T16:42:00.000+04:00

This weekend should be fairly lazy since it is so hot and humid, and we will probably spend most of the time at the sailing club.

The name implies something more grandiose but in reality it is an eclectic collection of expat riffraff that would make Hemingway proud. The following is our official description

Ras Al Khaimah Sailing Club, sited on a khor (inland waterway/harbour) on the Arabian Gulf. This location offers sheltered waters with exposure to Gulf winds, as well as easy access to the more challenging waters of the Gulf itself.

RAKSA shares the khor with a traditional dhow yard and a small fishing fleet. The club's private beach provides endless hours of entertainment looking for seashells, building sandcastles, or just soaking up the Arabian sunshine.

Founded in 1970's the Club has a proud history offering a small, friendly environment for people of all ages and sailing interests. The Club promotes all aspects of sailing - centreboard racing, with the predominant classes being Lasers, Wayfarers and Optimists.

The Club has over 20 boats ranging in size fron 10ft to 18ft ... not all race but there is a very healthy fleet each Friday competing fiercely for various trophies.
Those who favour a more lazy approach to sailing enjoy getting together and cruising in company on the waterways of the Khor and further afield. Club members cover a broad range of sailing interests. Some just like to "mess about with boats", others are serious racers. Some prefer the pleasures of cruising to a beautiful location whilst others just like to watch from the shade of the Club House.

Its not just on the water activities, we have BBQ's, quiz nights, themed dinners, spit roasted sheep and pleasure cruises to remote beaches or local hotels. The aim is to involve all members in having a good time.

Note: Our most illustrious member had a problem with his dive/cruise ship recently. Fortunately is was pumped and is now in dry dock for investigation and repairs. When it is back up and operational we will have many trips and further adventures to show.

For the sailors, it is a 65 ft. ketch custom built for diving cruises.

Ruminations

2006-08-01T17:06:00.000+04:00

Looking back at my birthday a couple of weeks ago, there is an advantage to having a dirty Jeep. It provides a canvas for your friend to make you an impromtu birthday card. Viva la cold beverages.

And a mug shot collection of the celebrants, only Elie is missing.

Shuju (pre bubble)

Lisa and someone

Michael (birthday professional)

Nic, neighbour and fellow partner in crime.

Maria, 7UP specialist

Summer in UAE (especially August)

2006-07-30T10:52:00.000+04:00

Sandstorms add to summer woes in RAK
By Sadiq A. Salam 30 July 2006

RAS AL KHAIMAH — Heavy sandstorms engulfed Ras Al Khaimah yesterday and were compounded by a remarkable rise in temperature and humidity levels.
The thick dust blanket reduced visibility in streets and public areas but did not hamper traffic flow or operations at the RAK International Airport (RIA). Motorists on Emirates Ring Road, however, complained of hazy conditions affecting visibility. No traffic accident was reported though.
A weatherman at RIA reported that visibility had been reduced to 1,500 metres because of the dust swirls. "This has not affected airport operations since we left it to aviation companies to proceed with operations," he added. Two cargo flights landed safely and took-off again from the airport, he said.
Weathermen said the maximum temperature yesterday was 46.5C as against a minimum of 34C, with humidity recorded at 49 per cent. Hospitals across the emirate attended to nearly 10 cases of heatstroke, almost all the victims being construction labourers working in the open.
Hospital sources said that 5-10 heatstroke victims, mostly construction workers, had been coming in daily since the onset of summer. Over 25 persons had been hospitalised in a single day last week, it may be recalled. The RAK Labour Department recently announced that 34 construction companies had been caught forcing labourers to work in the afternoon sun, in violation of the country's labour laws. Some of the companies at fault were asked to cough up hefty fines, while the others were left off with stern warnings, he added.
---------------------------------------------------
Note: But someone in the city reported 52C to me.

Safety in Dubai

2006-07-29T17:26:00.000+04:00

All of you have expressed concern about me being here in the Middle East, and non-specifically in the UAE.
Mainly this is founded on the overall view of the security situation and the violence in the surrounding countries. Although in the UAE we feel safe, and the crime rates etc. are exceptionally low, looking on a map from the North American point of view I realize I am only 150 km from Iran, and a 1.5 hour flight from southern Iraq.

However, the real risk here is the driving since we have attracted over 100 different nationalities, and their unique approach to driving, the roads are mess of accidents.

RAV4 vs cement truck on a city street (there were survivors!)

As Canadians we understand the difficulty of winter driving and the effect that snow drifts have on the car when you hit them. Here we have sand drifts, which are more dense, and when a Mercedes doing in excess of 200 kmph hits one and spirals off the road into a dune, airbags and seatbelts do little to preserve life.

The linked article describes Dubai emirate, which has a population of only 1.2 million, so that puts the perspective for their 300,000 car accidents a year. I live in Ras Al Khaimah with a population of only 220,000 but the insurance companies place us at a higher risk mainly because of sand drifts and wandering camels (3 m tall and 500+ kg).

Camel vs car

I have switched to a higher boxier Jeep because of that, plus the roll bars will protect better in case of a camel crash.

http://archive.gulfnews.com/articles/06/06/29/10050230.html

The article refers to locals, which is the term used for the Emiratis, which seem to have a singular obsession for speed, whether in a Honda or a Land Cruiser. I have been doing 160 kmph in a Dodge Charger and have been passed in a shudder by a Land Cruiser.

Other than that things are well here and my day to day risk is low. But I thought I could help to put risks in perspective.

On the other hand you can always go down to the lot and "trade up".

Yesterday - Happy Birthday Alex

2006-07-29T01:04:00.000+04:00

Inspired by his sister's blog, here is another photo for Alex's 22nd birthday.
Alex at Versailles circa 1995.

Musandam

2006-07-28T23:06:00.000+04:00

Well the choice today was Musandam, the tip of the peninsula above UAE. This territory is Oman and requires an exit of UAE and entry visa to Oman. But the minor formality is more than worth it. The Musandam is spectacular in its emptiness and raw desolate beauty. It rocky and mountainous with cliffs running into the sea then rising over 2000 meters above you.

The photos here are mainly from a previous trip (I go as often as possible) because today the visibility was not very good. The mid-summer humidity is increasing, August becomes unbearable, and the haze traps the dust creating a type of smog. Our reverse winter for my northern readers. Temperature was 46C and humidity over 80%, but still drove with the top down on the jeep.

What hot!!

Bukha Fort and Palace

Bukha without humidity.

Bukha with humidity (notice the mountains) along with the cormorant brigade.

At the end of the road is the town of Khasab which has an excellent Golden Tulip Inn which serves a Friday buffet, with cold beverages. Highly recommended.

Near the end

Find shade anywhere you can.

Golden Tulip Inn - Khasab

On the way back we had to assist a young French couple whose Peugeot 206 just gave up in the heat. Jeep rumbled on.

Bad Day at the Beach

2006-07-25T11:24:00.000+04:00

Yes it is possible to have a bad day at the beach.
My neighbour Nic and I decided to go for a coastline run to get the after work kinks out.
Start at Al Jeer beach that starts in nice packed sand and then changes to rock.

Bouncing along and then crunch.

Time to change the wheel.

Then off to Hulaya Island beach were I was several weeks ago, "crowded" with people and fun to run along the tide line.

Then stop and dig clams for dinner.

However, the summer heat has since dried out the sand and it has the consistency of sugar in places.

Nic tries to call the auto club but .... so we dig for a couple of hours.
Finally the civil patrol arrives and with a mighty yank we are free.
Return home with sand swirling inside and outside the Jeep.
Grumpf.

Things you should know

2006-07-24T10:29:00.000+04:00

Where am I?

Ras Al Khaimah is about 120 km north of Dubai in the UAE, just below the Musandam peninsula that forms one side of the Straits of Hormuz, the entrance to the Persian Gulf. This is a calm, quiet, safe area, that has a rich history of trading and agriculture. Recently it has opened up to increased commercial activity and tourism development.

For those who care, the weekend here in the UAE (and most of the GCC) is Friday, the government work week Saturday to Wednesday, but most of the private sector works a half day Thursday. Except Dubai where most of the private sector takes Friday and Saturday. Supposedly in September the government and banks with switch to a Friday/Saturday weekend to bring them closer to the rest of the world. What the private sector does ???

Actually the above is to remind people that I am not around much Thursday afternoon and Friday. Those are adventure times, or vegging times depending on the mood.

Thinking of driving up to the Musandam

this weekend or maybe over to Fujairah to Snoopy Island (think of Snoopy on his back).

Rock climbing or diving? Things to think about. The nice thing is that both choices are only an hour away.

Ponderings at the cusp ...

2006-07-23T14:47:00.000+04:00

So now that my sister even has a blog it is time to convert my old web page cum blog to something else.
Since I finally admit to middle age as I move into my second half century, maybe leaving some record behind will be fun.
As you can see from my transferred posts I am not terribly consistent, although my track record with email is good.

So as another birthday passed, I was overwhelmed by the calls and greetings I received from family and friends. Plus the spontaneous dinner my friends here gave me. Having a global "family" can be fun.

My kids remembered, each with their favoured form of communication. Alex with his mobile phone, and Kira on her blog.

So let's see what's next, as my good friend Rodney told me, "you cannot stop getting older, but you can avoid growing up".

Jeep

2006-07-23T13:52:00.000+04:00

31/03/2006

Now on to the next step, with the Charger out of my system it is time to off road.
First the Jeep is pretty and shiny and deep blue,

Too much chrome but that was the package.
Then off to the wadi’s

and beaches
and make sure it goes.
Bon Jovi kicks in and rock and roll literally (Quicktime video from my camera phone) over the moon-like terrain.
Nothing survives in this desolate land, even old camels.

By the time I am done the blue is masked in grey dust and properly broken in.

Then home to a simple repast and relaxation.

Charger

2006-07-23T13:48:00.000+04:00

10/03/2006

As you know I swap cars every month, usually small Japanese POS, but they go fine.
However, Chrysler has surplus cars from 2005 and are selling them at a great discount.
So I am converting my rental allowance to a lease.
A loaded Jeep Wrangler is $19K.

However, when I went to pick it up there was some snafu in the paperwork and they cannot deliver for several more days.
But as an apology they gave me a loaner.
Other than being a four door (the original Charger was two door) it rocks.
5.7L Hemi, 350 BHP, 19” alloys, plus a serious duf duf sound system.

The drive thru the desert from Dubai to my apartment took 40 minutes the other night, as opposed to 70 minutes in the POS. Needless to say there are no radar spots on the road.

Technically the BMW 530 I was driving a while ago handles better on the curvy road, American heavy metal still does the straight and fast the best.

Oh well, back to the mundane of work and life in the dust.

Still in sand land,

Rain

2006-07-23T13:13:00.000+04:00

20/11/2005

A blast of wind shakes the hotel.
Dash to the window, no it is not Saint Nick, but a dust storm kicks in.

An hour later it vanishes and all appears as normal.

But wait, a distant rumble of thunder is heard, now much louder.
Dark clouds are seen hanging over a mountain in the distance.
Quick, dash down lunch, gather stuff and find that source.
40 km later in the depths of Wadi Al-Baih there is the sound of rushing water.
The rain gods have delivered the first deluge of the winter season, nigh eight months since the last.
A small Mitsubishi Lancer struggles to follow the mighty SUVs in the dash up the canyon.
But succeeds while passing the stalled RAV4.

My car has four wheels, I can drive, so therefore it must be a "four wheel drive".
Apologies again to the car rental agency.
The road suddenly becomes a shallow river and the ditch a torrent.

Amazing.
Stop, explore, marvel at the ancient water worn rocks.

The goat stranded on high, painfully bleating.

Drift back to civilization, of sorts, and enjoy the sunset.

Another weekend in sand land.
Not much on TV.

Welcome to Ras Al Khaimah

2006-07-23T10:29:00.000+04:00

07/07/2005

Moved from the pseudo modern glass/steel city of Dubai
to the northern most emirate (least developed), Ras Al Khaimah.

New economic free zone being developed, funded by the Sheikh. Buildings in place and clients operating already.

Drove thru 100+ km's of desert and sand dunes on a new highway just opened to make this area more accessible.

Blue glass buildings with state of the art networks and Cisco IP telephony solutions, in the middle of a dusty field.
First day spent reviewing business processes and reading RFP responses from Oracle and SAP for ERP solutions.

Very business and techy.

Leave the industrial park but the driveway is blocked by goats rummaging in the trash, but they are scattered when the camels arrive to do the same. The cows did not show up until the next day.
Not much to do so I go to the closest hotel (Hilton) for a beer (few other options). Feel like I am back to the "Empire" except the hotel is modern.

Bar is full of men, few women, and the range is mainly German and British oil workers dusting off for the weekend. A few tourists round it out for a very eclectic group.

Beer is cold and the club sandwich is good albeit with fake bacon (no pork).

Band is announced. Seems the local (UAE) owner vacationed in Colombia and brought back the band he liked there.

So there I am, Heineken in hand, club sandwich in belly, listening to a Colombian marimba band (mediocre) play Tequila among other selections (in Spanish). The two girls that sang a little and kept some rhythm, then proceeded to dance (nicely) with a couple of the patrons.

Polite applause punctuated by the sound of play at the pool table.

Enough of this so outside for a stroll on the corniche, past tents with a few people smoking sheesha, and a view of the small dhows putting out for night time fishing.

Off to my local hotel and relax to the call to prayer, mosque directly beside the hotel with amplified speakers on the roof.

Wake to morning call to prayers (5 AM) and view the panoramic from my window before striking our for another technology intense day.