We started our trip with a few nights in Dubai, my second time, Kevin’s first. We stayed at the RoyalMirage One and Only-the Palace. Our room was beautiful with everything we could wish for. As we arrived late it was straight to bed ready for the next day where we had a few things planned.
A bit of a lie in, breakfast was enjoyed then a taxi into the Mall. I never made it in June 24, so I made sure I visited this time. The wealth and opulence is staggering, overwhelming in fact. I’m glad to have seen it, but not sure I need to go again …..
I’d booked a fast track to visit the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world at 830m to the tip. You can view from floors 124 & 125 a mere 492m. The lift takes 35 seconds to get there, a spectacle in itself.
The view wasn’t great as it was a humid day, but still worthwhile. We had booked to be on the boardwalk for the fountain show, and we enjoyed the setting sun too.
A walk through the mall for a taxi back, and our driver was very intent on us taking a 4 hour tour the following day. Luckily we were already booked at the Drift beach club, so politely declined.
Thursday a beach club day, with use of a cabana we enjoyed the pool, Ultimate Provence, the food and the music. It was fun people watching as they strolled up and down, strutting their designer stuff in all shapes and sizes.
Dinner in the evening at the Euazone restaurant, called this as it is floating in water. Great food, and company with a golf buggy to and from the hotel. Our waiter was from Indonesia, so sweet and interesting to hear about why he’s working in Dubai and his hopes and dreams for a better life.
Next up was our flight to Hobart, via Sydney with a 4 hour layover. Disappointing that we could have caught an earlier flight by 2 hours, but I suppose it’s better to err on the side of caution.
Tired but excited we were met by Andrew, Amanda and Ramsay, and we made our way to her parents who had kindly offered for us to stay again. There was a full itinerary planned and many eatery options, subject to minor change depending on the weather.
We had the best time, we did an air walk in Tahune, we saw “The Wiggles “ live ( not sure we’ve recovered from that.) We did a rail track ride, visited Richmond, the East Coast, visited cellar doors for wine and cider. We did a thermal spa walk, visited a zoo, and an animal sanctuary with the tamest Roos. I picked up Ramsay from day care, we went to the park, and enjoyed time with everyone. We ate Greek food, Indian, Mexican and delicious local sea food and steaks. Tasmania has a lot to offer, I just wish I’d packed a few more warmer clothes.
I hope the photos show just how wonderful our time was. We are so grateful for the kindness, warmth, and planning that went into ensuring we had the best time.
All too soon our time in Hobart was coming to an end.
There was a drive to the airport, with traffic jams, which meant a very short time to say our goodbyes. It’s always hard to say those words, tears flowed, lots of cuddles and a certainty that we will see each other soon. Ramsay is a charming,inquisitive little boy. He took to us very warmly, and his giggle and smile are infectious. He loves to copy his Daddy and Pops.
Up next was Perth, and seeing our friends Gary and Arlene.
Arlene had never been to a cricket match, so Day 2 of the first Ashes test was a must. Little did we know how much of a day it would be. Two full innings after the first day.
Travis Head’s innings was superb, and the England bowlers couldn’t replicate their first day efforts. A relaxed Sunday followed with a walk after lunch at Hillarys beach club.
Monday, and our next flight to Singapore with a couple of days to relax before home. We visited the MBS shopping complex, our stay at the Fullerton Hotel in walking distance. I’d booked to do the walk in Gardens by the Bay, something I didn’t do in 2014. The views are spectacular and I tried to take it all in, and we visited the Observatory, which I foolishly thought was behind glass.
Dinner in the evening was at the Jade in the hotel, a quiet affair with an interesting menu.
Our flight home was very late on Wednesday so I ventured back to the Mall, and Kevin visited the Art Science museum.A saunter back to the hotel where we finished packing and showered before our last flight. A mere 13 hours later, after retrieving our luggage Craig picked us up and we arrived home safe and sound.
Whilst away, we had plenty of photos sent, which was great. It really was a fantastic trip, one I will treasure forever. We also had wonderful news of two baby girls being born into our family.
My little life 