After a swim in the tepid waters of the Arabian Gulf,we were collected at 4.30pm for the final adventure of our holiday (sob). Khan is an affable, funny man who kept us entertained as he drove his 4-wheel-drive. After picking up a couple of German medical students we headed out onto the highway for a fairly rapid drive towards our destination (the 100kph speed limit must only be a suggestion). After about 45 minutes we turned off the highway and met up with three other 4WDs, let some air out of the tyres and set off in convoy for an exhilarating, nerve-tingling "dune-bash" on the Abu-Sallef Desert(nothing that Valium and Panadol won't fix) Straight up the side of a dune, hover on its top, then straight down the other side; sliding sideways through the sand; up the side of another dune - so it went for an hour before we made a brief stop to look at a small camel herd. Then up the dunes again, finally stopping near the top of what seemed the highest sand dune to watch the sunset. A short drive to a Bedouin encampment, where we were met with small cups of Arabic coffee and dried dates, camel rides, and finally a delicious meal of lamb, beef and chicken kebabs, Arabian salad, hommus, baba ghanoush and, of course, bread (otherwise the title of this blog wouldn't make sense). Then the sheshas - water pipes containing a mixture of tobacco, apple peel and honey - were brought out. (Sorry if the photo's a bit blurry - John took it just after he had his puff). Then back onto the highway for an equally rapid return trip to Abu Dhabi. A fascinating, thrilling, memorable night and a great way to (sob) complete our adventures. Next - early start to the airport, then home Tuesday morning. We will post a final wrap-up blog on Wednesday.
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