This is a guest post by By Anne O’Connell, author, @Home in Dubai…Getting Connected Online and on the Ground
In celebration of the launch of my new book, I am touring around this week, visiting Dubai and expat blogs and sharing some of my Dubai experiences and insights into settling into life in a new city. I’m thrilled to be visiting Grace and Sandier Pastures today with a look at my favourite Dubai escape.
Escape to the desert
During my four years as an expat living in the UAE, my favourite thing wasn’t the fast-paced, cosmopolitan city life. No…I’ve always been a big fan of open spaces. So, during our time in Dubai, my favourite thing to do was escape to the desert. It’s not enough to just drive by it (that’s boring). It’s best to be totally immersed in it. There’s nothing like digging your toes in the cool sand after sunset, especially during a full moon… I especially loved full moon drumming with Dubai Drums (www.dubaidrums.com). Very primal!
Early on in our Dubai adventure, my husband and I bought a used Jeep Wrangler (my dream car since I was 20) so that we could explore the dunes of Dubai and the Wadis of Oman. Pure bliss!
But first…
Of course, before you can start enjoying your life in Dubai, you’ve got to get all the formal, teeth gnashing, foot-stomping, frustrating setting up in a new place things done, right? It’s easy to find fun things to do but can it can be a challenge to find your way through some of the more tedious, formal processes of ‘getting connected.’
You’re not alone
@Home in Dubai is meant to help expats and visitors get settled while poking a little fun at some of the crazy conundrums many find themselves in and offering some sympathetic advice. It takes newcomers step-by-step through things like getting a work permit and residence visa, finding a place to live and finding the best networking groups (both professional and social). It’s full of great advice and online resources shared not only by me but also other expats who have been there before and blazed the trail. The most important thing to remember is that you’re not alone!
For a sneak peek, visit www.athomeindubai-gettingconnected.com or ‘Like’ us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/athomeindubai
Follow author, Anne O’Connell on Twitter @annethewriter.
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What a great idea for a book and very helpful for people moving to Dubai. I don’t plan to live there, but I’ve always wanted to visit. I’ll have to check out your book.