"Weekend Whirlwind: Unraveling the Highlights of my Adventure-Filled Escape!"

Oh man where do I begin? This weekend has been such an adventure filled and adrenaline hyped weekend. I went sand dune bashing, a wonderful spa day to prepare for Alicia Keys concert, the concert, and then relax and recovering from my weekend.

So, let's start at the beginning. I got off work Friday and headed to Dubai. Dubai is a place of endless options for a good time. You can explore the different souks for spices or fragrances unique to this area and let me tell you they all smell amazing. But I wanted to do something outdoors. I am not usually a huge fan of malls, and they have some beautiful malls here, because of the heat here there is nothing but malls. Everyone wants to be indoors and away from the heat. Luckily this time of year is not as hot as June-August so there are outdoor activities that I enjoy more. I decided to drive to the middle of the desert (and yes, I am in the desert at all times) deep into the desert where there are sand dunes as high as mountains and they are forever changing with the winds. Rented a 4x4 ATV and hit the dunes. It was such an exhilarating experience packed with adrenaline and adventure. Racing other drivers, trying to avoid rolling down the side of the sand dunes, seeing the beautiful skylines and reflections off the beautiful red sands, the wildlife, and just the feeling of peace as the wind and even the sand hit my face. It was such an experience that is not easy to put into words, just needs to be experienced firsthand. While playing in the sand I came across a group of camels, yes, you read that right, camels. They were so calm and such friendly creatures. I was able to walk up to them and pet them and be right up next to them. They even posed for a few photo opportunities; they aren't camera shy. A little while went by as we were out climbing sand mounds I ran across a local with his falcon. I held a falcon and the falcon even jumped on my head. That kind of freaked me out at first, but the falcon was so well trained (and on a leash) that it just sat there so content. In the UAE, falcons symbolize more than just a majestic bird; they embody a deep cultural significance, playing a vital role in the nation's heritage, traditions, and the sport of falconry, fostering a unique connection between the people and the timeless desert environment. To be able to experience the amount of respect from the locals and the bird was an exhilarating experience. One of a kind. It started to get dark and because I am not familiar with the land or have the experience in sand dune bashing, I decided it was time to head back. As much as I wished and could've stayed out there all night just cruising along, I thought it was time to go back to my car and head back to my apartment. The drive was over 1 1/2 hours and Saturday was going to be a big day as well, so I needed to come back to reality and put the toys away.

Saturday was spa and concert day. Alicia Keys was coming to Abu Dhabi, so I had to be ready. I had front row tickets, personal security to make sure no one obstructed my view with great food and drinks. Personal waitstaff continuously bringing refreshments as needed, I felt like a princess. To prepare for the concert I had to have a spa day, of course! My housekeeper was cleaning and doing laundry so I didn't have to worry about any of that and I could just focus on getting ready for the big night. I started my day off with a Morracan bath, and if you haven't tried it, I highly recommend you do. A Moroccan bath, also known as a hammam, offers a rejuvenating and culturally immersive spa experience. Steeped in centuries-old traditions, the ritual begins with a relaxing steam session in a tiled chamber, preparing the body for cleansing. A skilled therapist then employs traditional black soap and exfoliating mitts, followed by a soothing rinse, leaving the skin refreshed and invigorated. The Moroccan bath is not just a physical cleanse but a holistic retreat, harmonizing the senses and embracing the time-honored practices of North African spa culture. And when I say it is rejuvenating, I am not exaggerating. I will admit it was kind of awkward at first, but so worth it. The steam room opened every single pour in my body, allowing for pours to unclog, hydration to your skin, and bringing a glow back to your body. But like I said it was awkward at first. You enter the steam chamber completely naked, and the skilled therapist rubs a blackened herb filled soap all over you and the steam and herbs soak into your skin. After about 20 minutes of steam the soap is rinsed off and she exfoliated with an herb scrub and an exfoliating mitt. The amount of dead skin and bad toxins that are pulled from your skin is insane. It is left so smooth and so healthy. So, after the Morracan bath I sat in a relaxing room and drank warm milk with rose water. It is good for you. Warm milk and rose water hold cultural significance as a soothing elixir, traditionally used to promoting relaxation, enhancing skin health, helping to enhance brain functions, mood enhancer, and helps to minimize the unhealthy oils within your skin that cause blemishes. Nobody likes those! Then I did a massage. I will admit I fell asleep during the massage. I go to the same lady at least 2 times a month for a massage. She is wonderful and always works out any knots or tension I have. With my job and my pre-existing back problems it is a necessity to see her as often as I do. If I had the time with work, I would go every weekend. Now that my skin is rejuvenated it was time to start getting ready. After everything I owned was tried on, I finally found the prefect outfit. Makeup, hair, and accessories were finally done, and my driver was ready to pick me up. IT'S FINALLY CONCERT TIME. I love and have loved Alicia Keys for as long as I can remember, she is a down to earth woman, woman empowering, and gentle soul. And the fact I had front row seats was a bonus. She sang all of my favorites (all of her songs are my favorite) and for a brief moment it felt like I was home and not in the middle east. I sure do miss home, but I am making the best out of the situation I am in, that's all I can do. I am grateful for these experiences, but I do miss home and my kiddos.

Sunday was just a rest and reset day. The weekend was so great, but I was tired. However, my nails needed to be re-done and I didn't want to worry about them during the work week. SO, I went to do them. While there I decided to do a facial and pedicure at the same time since, well why not, I am already there. It was amazing. Maybe too amazing and calming because I went home after and crashed. I didn't wake up until after 7 at night, woke up long enough to take a bath, and go right back to sleep.

The weekend came to an end, and to say it was eventful is an understatement. The pampering, the adventures, the thrills, and the memories will forever be etched within, serving as timeless echoes of laughter, adventure, and the magic that made these days truly unforgettable.

Until next time, I hope you enjoyed experiencing my crazy adventures.

~ Heather ~