Reuniting with friends whom you haven’t seen for a long time is always a great time. When I found out that some of my high school and college friends are in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, I cleared one of my weekends to travel and explore the city with them. But two days were not enough.
Actually, this is my second time to visit Dubai. I went there last November for a quick visit with college friends. We went to Mall of Emirates, Dubai Miracle Garden and had a quick stop at Burj Al Arab before heading back to Abu Dhabi.
Two weekends ago, I saw to it that I would have enough time to explore the city. I could have titled this blog as Colors of Dubai, when you see the photos, it would be very obvious. We met at Dubai Mall, and had a glimpse of Burj Khalifa. We thought we could watch the light show but we weren’t able to do so.
We spent most of our times at the Global Village. The venue showcased the products of the world, focusing much on the Middle Eastern countries. It was an amazing experience. Who needs to travel to these countries when you can have it one place? Check the video below to know more what I am talking about. Some of the vendors allow their products to be photographed, but others do not. So it is better to ask permission before taking photos.
The next day, we went to Jumeirah Beach. I planned to go flyboard but it was too late already. Better to book in advance next time. I thought the weather that day was perfect - not so cold, not so hot. Since there was nothing to do, we strolled, and found colorful spots to take some snaps.
all photos of me were by Bryan
The remaining time in the afternoon was spent in the famous gold and spice souk. I have never seen so much gold in my life. Each store was packed with customers. I believe that gold could be a good investment. What do you think?
The spice souk or spice market is very interesting. I never thought that there lots of spices and herbs used in cooking, healing and in various purposes. It was a good subject for photography too. I hope I was bold enough to take photos non-stop. Maybe next time.
Do you agree with me that Dubai is indeed colorful? Here’s the short video I made for my 2-day trip in Dubai.
Well, since it’s winter-ish in UAE right now, here’s how I sum up my writing scenario.
On A Poet's Desk During Winter
The raspberry candle
melts the web off the unexplored volumes,
warms the green tea in manila cup.
Paper balls fall from the desk,
but avoid the slumber of cigarettes;
the quill remains silent
its ink
frozen.
/totomai
/totomai 2018/03/24
Photos taken with Nikon
D7000 lens 18-300 mm VR
A fabulously colourful trip, totomai. The markets are amazing. So much to see. Am sure you will be back. I love your poem!
ReplyDeleteYes, Sherry. The markets here absolutely surprised me :) is
DeleteDubai is a fun city..the desert most of all.. like your poem.
ReplyDeleteYes, it’s fun and more touristy than Abu Dhabi.
DeleteGosh you make me miss Dubai!!đź’ž I love the image of the "raspberry candle"... such depth in your words.
ReplyDeleteYou can visit again, Sanaa :)
DeleteAll that color creates its own feeling of motion, until you get to the frozen ink at the end and realize winter can tamp down the energy of even the most riotous of colors.
ReplyDeleteDefinitely agree with you, Rommy.
DeleteWhat a beautiful series of colorful photos, Totomai. You always share photos that give the reader an inside glimpse. The pictures of the market made me want to BE there. I will save your video for a bit later in the day when I have some time. And, ah, you are looking good, my friend!!
ReplyDeleteHaha, thanks Mary. I thought I needed to put some photos to balance everything. I also think than you will enjoy the market.
Deletecolourful indeed!
ReplyDeletethanks for the tour, and the lovely poem. :)
Cheera, mate
DeleteI very much enjoy travelling with you! The photos are wonderful – and yes, very colourful. And I love the poem.
ReplyDeleteDeel free to join the virtual trips, Rosemary. Always a pleasure to share
DeleteA very colorful trip....and that silence of the quill...beautiful !
ReplyDeleteThanks Neeraj
DeleteAnother of your WOW me posts. Thanks for today's share Totomai
ReplyDeleteMuchđź’–love
Thanks Gillena. Cheers
DeleteYour photos speak volumes....what color right down to the spices....I would be in heaven visiting that market! A perfect poem to complement the visual journey!
ReplyDeleteTime to visit the Middle East, Donna :)
DeleteLove how you tied the text to the image.... the raspberry candle borrow scent from the spices. I have so many friends who has lived in Dubai, and more and more people are going there for vacation... not yet me. So far only been in telephone conferences with the people down there.
ReplyDeleteDon’t forget to message if you are coming here, Bjorn.
DeleteI had to copy and paste your poem because the font is too small for my ageing eyes, and it was worth it! The scent of the raspberry candle and green tea is atmospheric and I hope the quill doesn't remain silent for too long and the candle thaws the ink soon.
ReplyDeleteYes, I hope I can go back writing again soon. Thanks Kim.
DeleteYour photos are to be savored over and over again. Dubai appears to be a beautiful place.
ReplyDeleteThanks Bev
DeleteAnother adventurous visit (Beautiful pictures and poem)
ReplyDeleteZQ
Cheers, ZQ
DeleteAnother fascinating post. Incredible photographs and interesting commentary. And your wonderful poem struck the perfect finishing note. I always enjoy your blog so much. Thank you, once again.
ReplyDeleteGlad you enjoyed this trip, Wendy
DeleteWhat a delight it is to visit your blog again. What an eye you have to capture the colour and awe of your surroundings wherever you are.
ReplyDeleteI’m trying hard, Robin :)
DeleteEnjoyed every minute of your post. It's always a delight to "travel" with you. Your poem is delightful too. I think all of us writers can relate to it.
ReplyDelete