DUBAI AND ABU DHABI - Is the hype real?

Ever since Samantha, Carrie, Charlotte and Miranda from Sex & The City went to Dubai & Abu Dhabi, I have always wanted to go.  So, when an unbelievable deal came our way, Dewitt and I jumped on it!


Brief History:  Dubai is a fairly new city, so everything is modern.   It is an Islamic country and there is a "call to prayer" five times a day throughout the city.  You can hear it and if you are in the mall, you will notice the locals disappear.

Hotels

We stayed at two 5 star hotels.  The Movenpick in Dubai and the Al Rahu Beach resort in Abu Dhabi.  The Movenpick had a Starbucks, a rooftop pool and buffet breakfast was served daily.  The service at this hotel was absolutely 5 star and above.  The staff was very responsive and offered one night of entertainment.  It is located in a central location .  We did notice that after a certain time, the restaurants were frequented by men only.  (If you know why, please comment below). Next door was a club with mostly locals, and one night Dewitt, being the social butterfly that he is, threw a party for our group.  It was truly awesome.  Every now and then they played some American music and the average age was 25-30.  We fit in perfectly!

Abu Dhabi - We stayed at The Al Rahu Beach Resort.   It was even more amazing.  We were escorted individually to our rooms.  Large rooms and state of the art everything.  There was a round window that separated the bedroom from the bathroom that could be frosted or see thru,  double shower heads and the floor to ceiling Windows overlooked the beach/pool area.  This hotel is located near the mall and next door to a pub/club.

Breakfast was included and was twice as much food as the first hotel.  They had a late night jazz room, spa, indoor pool, sauna, jacuzzi, 3 other restaurants on the premises and a large infinity pool and beach  surrounded by the desert.   Service could of been better, the new staff, could not speak English and food took 3 hours to come for a group of 10.  One night we reserved a cabana on the beach with candlelight and tiki torches..the tiki torches did not work because the waiter did not know where to find the lighting fluid, when we asked for napkins, he gave us tiny cocktail paper napkins, never got the water we requested and food took over an hour to come.  In all fairness, the food was excellent at this hotel, and they compensated us for the mishaps the next day.

Excursions and city highlights

Dubai is a big city of lights.  Everything is over the top.  The biggest, brightest and the best!

The Safari tour is a must.   It included dinner, camel ride, desert racing in a truck,  belly dancing and a show.  We also did a dinner cruise one night that was awesome as it took you through the canal and the city is lit up at nigh. The DJ on the cruise played all the line dance songs including the Cupid shuffle and the wobble!

The world famous mosque in Abu Dhabi is breathtaking.    We were told in advance to cover your legs, arms and heads.  Perhaps we didn't get the memo because when we got off the bus, they made 15 of us, including me get back on the bus to cover up some more.  Three quarter sleeves, partially thin clothing and a wrap were not enough, so we purchased the Abaya which is the national dress for women in most Arab Countries.  Although the Mosque's dress code is very strict the dress code for tourist in other areas is a little more relaxed.

The key is to be respectful, no see through clothing, mini skirts, or tank tops. etc.  The Mosque is a lot stricter than in other areas of the city.  The women of Dubai are very fashionable in their dress.  Their Abayas are donned with sequins and all kinds of beautiful decorations.  They wear lots of eye makeup and are absolutely beautiful even though they are covered up.  The men are meticulously dressed  in their all white Dishdash. They are always so clean and well-shaven.  I did not see one person in a dingy or dirty white one.  I am told they change several times a day.

The Gold Souk and the Spice Souk - Souk means market.  Very aggressive sales pitches here.  You should price your jewelery here and compare the price of gold by the gram before you leave the U.S. This will help you barter when you get there.

Weather - it gets hot in the desert.  Fortunately we went during their winter.  Only 80-90 degrees.  I am told that it can go up to 140 degrees during their summer months.

Food - Did not find any of the restaurants where the food wasn't great.  A blend of American food mixed with their ethnic food was always delicious.  If you like Tabouleh and hummus, it is fresh and very good.  The Address restaurant was amazing!

Money - The conversion when we went was thirty-two cents US to $1 dirham.  Expensive?  It is all relative.  A bottle of water was $3 and a glass of wine or cocktail $15.  There are ways to cut corners by eating in local restaurants, etc.  The Gold Souk (gold market) is a great place to shop for gold.  You can spend most of your day there.  Go with something specific in mind and you can negotiate pricing if you know what you are talking about.  Dinner cost approx $200 for two without drinks per night.  Since Breakfast was included in all of our hotel stays, we skipped lunch.  The local fast food restaurants and starbucks were reasonably priced.

Great trip.  Great group, and we didn't come home feeling like we spent too much money.  For what we got, we felt it was worth the experience.  Except for the plane ride, we would go back.  I hear Emirates airlines might have more flexibility to move around.  Please let me know with your comments below.

ITS A FAMILY AFFAIR - 2015 FAMILY REUNION

It has been a long time since we had our last family reunion.  So, with much preparation and planning we decided to do it again, in Orlando, Florida.  I hope some of our hits and misses will give you some thought when planning your next family reunion.

My family is small so there were approximately 25-30 of us and we almost had 100% in attendance.  The first day we arrived was a Thursday nite and we stayed at The Westgate Leisure Resorts.  Not to be confused with Westgate timeshare resorts.

This was a very nice resort and was reasonably priced so that everyone could afford to do it.  Two bedrooms with a full kitchen, two baths and a living room/dining room area.  Each family member was greeted at the front desk with a big Welcome sign, a DVD and a Family brochure with pictures and bios.  The resort also had a cooler of iced water ready for the weary travelers.

We spend the first night meeting and greeting.  Especially great was the nieces and newphews that we had not seen for a few years.  What a surprise to see how my nephews and nieces had grown, the new addition to the family just five months old, and meeting my cousins wife for the first time.  Our cousins from Florida came by and we reminisced about old times and growing up.

We all went to Aquatica Water Park on Friday morning.  We arranged for Group rates and it definately was a big savings. You have to fill out the form atleast a day before to get the discount.  Friday night we had a Fish Fry and afterwards  danced and partied to an old school dance party.  We did the cabbage patch, the snake and the young kids tried to show the old folks how to do some of the new dances like the Nae Nae and the Dougy.  The grandchildren sang to my dad and me and my siblings sang to my mom "I'll always love my mama."

Friday and Saturday, morning breakfast was served for the whole crew.   Grits, eggs, waffles, sausages, biscuits, home fries, fruit, juice.  Everyone pitched in and made one item and bought it to one location.  We all watched the DVD of memories of days gone by.

Saturday, we all headed to Turkey Lake Park for our cookout. Beautiful lake and park.   Food was catered by Chef Eddies in Orlando.  Ribs, Chicken, Brisket, greens, string beans, salad, jalapeño muffins, Potato Salad, Macaroni Salad, Corn on the Cob, Baked Beans....phew!! what a spread.  We could not possibly eat all of that food in two days, so a lot was wasted.  Thunderstorms put a damper on everyones pool time, but because we had a covered pavillion we were able to salvage the food and the day.   We had a few games planned,  and did all of the line dances.  Under our pavillion, we saw a family of raccoons living in the rafters.  The kids got excited over this.

Sunday, some of the members of our family headed out and some stayed until Monday.  The plan was to spend a day at the beach.  To our surprise, some of the family was sick with a bad stomach virus.  Now, I am not saying that Chef Eddies food was bad, because 6 out of 30 people got sick.  We all ate the same thing.  Just one of those things that everyone who resided in two households got sick out of the 8 houses we rented.

All in all the family had a great time.   No one can say it was not worth the trip to Orlando because we shared so many memories and the best part was.......my dad and mom was there to share it with us!

LAS VEGAS - A NUMBERS GAME

On the 19th of June, 9 members of my family went to Vegas to celebrate my nieces 21st birthday.  It was 108 degrees every day we were there!

We stayed  at the Wyndham Desert resort located a few blocks from the strip.  In normal weather you could leisurely stroll to the strip, but in 108 degrees it was impossible.   So we either took the resorts shuttle which only went to Harrahs or we took a cab.

First, I want to say that the 5 - 6 hour flight  on Virgin America was phenomenal.  It was my first time on the airline and  I was impressed.  Lot of leg room, individual monitors on the back of the seats, good service.  I absolutely loved their take off video explaining the emergency procedures. Well done Virgin America!

We did the usual things during the week like walk up and down the strip, gamble and eat.  However the Wyndham which is a time share was a great place to stay.  We really enjoyed their pool and since the water temperature is controlled, it was never too warm.  They have an adult only pool and a family pool.  We rented a poolside cabana daily and a great relief from the sun when we were out of the water.   Not bad for the price and it contained all nine of us with no problem and the guys got to watch the basketball game.

The younger family members hung out in the clubs at night.  They did not seem to have problems finding happy hour or ladies night up and down the Vegas strip.  They hung out until 7:00 am the first night.  Vegas is definately a 24 hr. non-stop everything.

There are lots of newer hotels in Vegas.  I would highly recommend staing at the Venetian, Arias, Encore, The Mirage and MGM grand.  The all you can eat buffets at the Stratosphere and Harrah's are good choices.


We spent one afternoon in Old Town - this is off the strip at the end on Freemont Street.  It has a boardwalk look but a wild wild west feel with old style casinos and shops. While there we stopped in The Heart Attack Grill.   Their claim to fame is that they serve high caloric unhealthy food in a  hospital themed restaurant.  The nurses take prescriptions from patients.  Each patient wears a hospital gown, and if you don't eat all of your "Quadruple Bypass" hamburger or the all you can eat flatlier fries you can get flogged.   However, if you are over 300 lbs you eat free.


We did not get to see 1/3 of what Vegas had to offer.  If you have never been there, it should be on your bucket list even if you do not gamble.  It is Times Square to the 10th degree. Street characters abound, water falls, fireworks, and a melting pot of people all ages..  Nothing is free in Vegas no matter what they pitch.   Keep that in mind.  You will win some and lose some, but if you are smart you will go home with what you came with and lots of memories which are priceless.

Tip:  When playing the slots be careful,  the penny slots are never a penny!

My niece bought in her 21st birthday by partying like a rock star.  When she left, she said...."ok,   I am 21. now what!...lol

If you have ever been to Las Vegas, please feel free to add your comments below. Thank you.

CAPITAL JAZZ FESTIVAL 2015

Yes, we came back again this year to enjoy food, fun, friends and music!

We started out Friday from New York and drove to Maryland.  The actual festival is a 3 day event at the Merriweather Pavillion in Columbia, Maryland.  We have been going for over 6 years  now and it has never disappointed us regardless of the lineup.

Friday night's line up was none other than Frankie Beverly & Maze and India Arie.  There are two stages that have non-stop music from two genres.  Your admission gives you access to both.

The Pavillion Stage features contemporary jazz and adult contemporary artists, whereas the Symphony Woods stage showcases soul music artists from the old school and the new.

We arrived around 11:00 am on Saturday and there were many good spots available. Most people were pretty accommodating and allowed you to squeeze your group in.  We came with a group of about 8-10 along with tents, coolers, chairs and tarp. There are plenty of jumbotrons through the park so you can see the show pretty well no matter where you sit.  Some groups come with elaborate equipment and tables full of food.  Yum!

The weather held up nicely and after settling down, we walked around to see what the vendors had to offer.  There were a variety of vendors from jewelry, artwork, african garb,  to "Thelma from Good Times taking pictures with patrons for $10."  Still looking good Thelma.  

The food vendors were out as well.  Prices were a little more expensive than usual.  After realizing this, we bought more food on Sunday with us rather than purchasing from vendors.

You can see this year's line up at the capital jazz website.  I just want to say that everyone looked amazing, thousands of people walking around, eating, shopping, dancing and singing along to the music.  Not one incident did I see happen all weekend and everyone was in a great mood.  

The shows end around 10-11pm and the last show on the Pavillion stage is usually the best.  However, this year's award (if I was giving one) would definitely go to Morris Day and the Tymes.  He showed up and showed out.  

TWO DAY CRUISE TO NOWHERE - NORWEGIAN BREAKAWAY

WHAT A PLEASANT SURPRISE!

We cruised from the New York Pier to nowhere in the dead of winter.  Yes, this two-day cruise on the Norwegian Breakaway gave us a great opportunity to see this "well talked about cruise ship" and  enjoy a weekend get away for under $600 per cabin double occupancy.  Fast paced and definitely the place to get your party on.  The age of the cruisers on this ship ranged from 15-75 and believe me there was something for everyone.

Getting to the Ship:  We decided to park in upper Manhattan and take a taxi to the pier.  There is onsite parking for approximately $42 per day.  Some people were dropped off and picked up.  Boarding starts at 12:00 noon until 3:00pm.  It went fast and seamless because we did the on-line check-in before we left.   It took no more than 15 minutes.  You will need your drivers license or passport to check in, but passports are not mandatory because you are not going into international waters.

What to bring/or not  bring:  You are allowed to bring wine and champagne on board and no other alcoholic beverages.    If you bring liquor and they stop you, they will hold it until the last night of your cruise.  This is only a two day cruise so you get it the next day.  This is a very casually dressed ship, however, there are those who dress up at night for dinner (no gowns or tuxedos).

Our Cabin:  It was located on the 5th floor.  This is the first floor of cabins.  Once we got into our cabin it was fine.  I do not recommend being near the elevators.  We got an inside cabin which was pretty good since we did not spend much time in the room most of the weekend.  If you like to see the  daylight come into your room in the morning, then get an ocean view for a few dollars more.  This has a very large picture window.  I don't really understand why you would  need a balcony unless you like being in the cold.  Remember this is a winter cruise.  Just a little tip:  Bring your own bar of soap.

The food:  Norwegian is known for its Freestyle dining.  The buffet is open as soon as you arrive, and the bars throughout the ship are open.  Food was delicious no matter where we ate.  You can go to any of the restaurants on board anytime you want, except the steakhouse and Asian restaurant where you may need a reservation and there is a nominal fee.  There is enough free restaurants and a wide selection of food to choose from so we chose to stay with the non-paying restaurants.  Make sure you get to O'Sheehans for their delicious corned beef sandwich (open 24 hours).

The shows and entertainment:  The broadway style show was the Rock of Ages.  The jazz nightclub was fantastic and Bliss, their disco (yes, I still call it disco) had their resident DJ was fun.   We saw the comedy show and listened and danced to their reggae band.  There was bingo, a full casino, an art exhibition and much more.  I actually won some money in their casino!

The Service:  Our stateroom attendant was absolutely awful.  We adopted the stateroom attendant from another cabin and he was fantastic.  First time I experienced this on any cruise line, but I think he was new and didn't know where anything was.

Oh, and did I mention it was our anniversary?  Yes, we asked the resident band to play our wedding song

, "Have I told you lately that I love you" by Rod Steward and we danced on stage.  It was so emotional.  I am a cry baby and so were many of the people watching.  New Yorkers showing real emotion.  Loved it.

NEGRIL, JAMAICA - Mon we Irie all day

After our 7 day cruise to Cuba, we docked in Montego Bay.  Since it was a Friday we decided to spend the weekend in Negril, Jamaica.

Negril has been home to us for over 10 years, however, we stopped going after the hurricane wiped away a lot of the restaurants, shops and left the beach not as pristine as before.  This time we took a chance and found a great little hotel called "Sea Splash."  

I had no idea what to expect in Negril nor what would await us at Sea Splash. Surprise, Surprise, Surprise!  The beach was back!.  The hotel was a small little place almost hidden from the main road and when we walked into our room it was beautiful!!  The room was so clean and the all white bedding and curtains made it inviting.  

We immediately put our bags down and headed for the 21 mile beach.  We walked up and down, splashed in the water and listened to the rhythm of reggae music coming out of every restaurant.  Ah!  The flavor and atmosphere of Negril, Jamaica.

We snorkeled, we ate authentic caribbean food at Sweet Spice for dinner and went to see a reggae band. At night the smell of ganja is everywhere.   I got a contact high at the concert and had to leave early.  lol.  

The next day we had Akee, Codfish, Dumplings and Calaloo for breakfast.  If you don't know what this is, you ought to ask somebody.  

We only had two days in Jamaica, and that was not nearly enough.  I have got to go back soon.  

Irie

Joann & Dewitt

CUBA CRUISE LINES - LOUIS CRISTAL - THE BOAT

Our Cuba Trip began on the Louis Cristal out of Montego Bay.   This is not your luxury liner or cruise ship with rock climbing walls, zip lining, etc.  Cuba Cruise Lines sails from December to March each year to Cuba.

Some background information:  The ship is old (1980).  It has been sold twice.  It is now owned by a Greek company. The boat was just comfortable enough to get you to the islands of Cuba on a seven day adventure.  If you understand this before you board, then you will have a great time.

We opted for an ocean view cabin, there are not that many balconies on this ship.  Our room size was normal for a ship and the beds were just above standard.   It was however, Clean and neat.   Our room attendant was accommodating and efficient.   The bathroom had a sign on the first day that said "do not put any toilet tissue in the toilet", put it in the garbage can.  What?  I never heard of such a thing.  Most Americans on board were appalled.  However, the Europeans onboard (who outnumbered us) did not seem fazed by this at all.  We used our judgement and we were fine.

The pool was my biggest disappointment.  They drained the pool each day around 6:00.  The food was pretty good.  There were three nights where the food was exceptional:   during the midnight buffet, the captains cocktail party and Greek night.  Changes are a coming for the 2016 cruise year....ie, more authentic cuban food.

Entertainment was mediocre nightly and the disco was ok.  There was a cuban opera singer that was absolutely fantastic and the aerial act was amazing.  Casino small but functional.  I think we broke even by the end of the week.

Customer Service -  The new company has been responsive and is clearly into customer service.  This beforehand was not a cruise you would want to be on if you are looking for refunds, gifts, or apologies for bad food, rooms or service.  They are friendly, but not going to be too accommodating with small annoyances or mishaps.  Perhaps with the change of hands from Canadian to Greek this may change.

You have to regard this cruise as a "means to an end."  Meaning you get to see Cuba inexpensively and thoroughly immerse yourself in it's people and culture.  With that being said....I had one of the best vacations of my life.  I won't remember the cruise ship in a few weeks, but I will remember Cuba for a long time to come.


midnight buffet

midnight buffet