Milkshaeks

There's nothing cuter than seeing two dudes in full dishdash and headwear... game faces on (very serious)... sipping iced mochachinos complete with whipped cream and sprinkles. This was the scene at Mall of the Emarites last night. Adorable. I wanted to take a picture, but I didn't think that would go over so well. Oh, and they have an indoor ski slope. Guess I should mention that as well.

Dubai is another world. You have a huge disparity between the Emiraties who own everything, the Westerners who have the white collar jobs and run everything, and the Filipinos/Indians who take care of blue collar business. Apparently there are camps (basically barracks) outside the city where they bus all the workers in to work long hours in construction and maintenance. I've heard the living situation is 8+ per room, so needless to say I think everyone gets pretty cozy.

I've been privileged to drinks at some of the most beautiful bars/restaurants overlooking several of the world's finest hotels (Burg Al Arab)... and I've walked some of the pseudo-slums in the older part of Dubai. It'll be interesting to see how long this city can sustain this kind of growth, and how it will effect the residents. I heard Dubai alone has 70% of the world's cranes employed in the city. At this pace, the Dubai/Paris metroplex should be a lovely place to live in 2020.

On a positive note, I've made friends with some of the guys at the Lebanese bakery across the street. I've had my fare share of kibbeh, baklava, zaatar, etc... but this might be the best. They seriously give me a handfull of free stuff every time I walk in. I end up pointing to anything and it's "you try, please" from the owner... I like.

I've also been practicing my broken English (so I apologize if any seeps in this journal). I can condense a well thought out sentence or two into a handful of key words (like PowerPoint).

ex.
"Pardon me sir, would you happen to know where I could find a nice restaurant that serves roasted chicken? Preferably free range if it's available."

...becomes....

"where I find shawarma?"

It's easy. You try.