After our swim, we showered and dressed and headed off to the first of the day's adventures, high tea at the Emirates Palace . Oh my! This is definitely a must do for anyone visiting Abu Dhabi. We did the English Tea, which came covered in gold leaf, but they also do an Arab tea. I think we'll have to try this next time!
The drive up to the Emirates Palace was very smooth, other then we were stopped briefly by the guards to ensure someone was in the taxi. Apparently they don't let empty taxis drive up to the front door, something that does become an issue when you are trying to leave later! They also would not allow anyone up to the palace without a reservation any time they had a VIP or visiting dignitary staying to increase security.
Just like royalty ourselves, we were driven right up to the front door of this palace turned hotel. Everything was covered in gold. The place sparkled. We walked past displays of million dollar jewelry for sale on our way to high tea.
We ordered blue tea to enjoy, however the tea itself was not blue. High tea came with a course of mini quiches, complete with holindase sauce, then a three-tier serving plate with finger sandwiches, muffins with jams, and the prettiest desserts I've ever seen! There was so much food! I don't remember what half the stuff was!
Next on board for the day, staying awake until my flight! Julie didn't quiet make it, she had a couple of naps before it got to be 11pm and we had to grab a taxi over to the airport. At least it's about a 5 minute drive over and she could ride right back. I'm pretty sure the driver was very confused why he dropped me off and wasn't getting paid yet when we both got out. He eventually caught on that she wasn't going and would be going back to Al Bandar. Round trip fair for him!
I was surprised how busy the airport was at that time of night when I finally got through passport control and the security checkpoint. The waiting area was packed with people. Julie had explained earlier to me that most of the flights in and out of Abu Dhabi take place at night when it it cooler. Hard to tel that when I didn't wait in line at all at the check-in counter with Eithad Airlines!
High: 113 F
Low: 86 F
Sunny, hot, light breeze