Camel racing, deserts and the Indian Oceal

Trip Start Jan 18, 2006
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Trip End Dec 19, 2006


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Flag of United Arab Emirates  ,
Saturday, March 3, 2007

Having got up at 7am we headed for the Camel Racing track.  There were camels all over the place with police nearby to make sure they had prioity on the road.  The track itself was enormous and must have been over 5 miles long in a huge loop.  Amy and I went up to the stand, where we were the only ones there!  We could see in the distance camels obviously racing and alongside were cars who we weren't sure were their trainers or punters!!!  We waited to see some run past us then gave up as hadn't got a clue what was going on.

We then drove through the desert, which  seems like a romantic Arabian adventure, but in fact since the road is new double carriage way and full of lorries and cars wasn't quite.  We went to the Friday market at Masafi which consisted of only carpets and fruit and we kept being badgered at every stall to buy bananas, not sure why, they were selling masses of other tropical delicious looking fruit!! Perhaps in past experience this is what tourists buy! 
On the stand overlooking the camel track
On the stand overlooking the camel track
After rejecting all the dodgy and seedy looking cafe's we went with relief to the new, clean petrol station and also to their toilet!  The drive then down to Dibba was great, very pictureque through the mountains and down to the sea.  We saw a 'beware of camels' sign then straight after it a 'beware of humps in the road' sign!! very funny but drove on too quick to take a photo.  Arrived at Le Meridien Al Aqah Beach resort before lunch but we were able to look round and sample the beach and facilities before getting our room.  A touch of luxury for me though very much a bubble.  Amy and I tried to walk along the beach towards Snoopy rock but the public beach had lots of men on them just sitting, so felt awkward and returned to our bubble, not particularly comfortable with that.   Had a great meal in the evening though, overlooking the beach and lit up pool, so great ambience, company and price!!
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