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Desert Rose
"Emirates Palace Hotel"
Dubai's hotels are beautiful but cannot compare to the beautiful, luxurious Emirates Palace Hotel. I spent a month in Abu Dhabi and had the privilege of staying at Sheraton Khalidiyah, Hilton Abu Dhabi (Corniche) and Emirates Palace Hotel.
Staying at the Emirates Palace Hotel ranks very high on life favorites. This is the same place where President Sarkozy, Secretary of State Condoleeza Rice, and other dignitaries and high hitters have stayed. The hotel boasts two beautiful pools, water slide, lazy river, auditorium, live musicians, cafes, restaurants, shops, fitness center, personal butler service, etc.
"Sheikh Zayed photo in front of Emirates Palace"
This picture was taken from the glass elevator of the Hilton Corniche in Abu Dhabi.
In the foreground is a portrait of Sheikh Zayed, father of the country. It is particularly beautiful at night with the border being lit up. They do need to replace a few bulbs though. In the background is Emirates Palace Hotel.
"Tolerant to a point."
Abu Dhabi is tolerant of all people yet more conservative than Dubai. Abu Dhabi has a Catholic Church, St. Joseph, that serves many of its Filipino, Indian working class. I found it ironic that St. Joseph sits next to a newer Mosque that overshadows St. Joseph but the fact is the church is there and thriving.
I was appalled to see an Emirati scold a young (16-18?) clerk at the Baskin Robbins in Khalidiyah Mall because the young Pakistani? clerk asked the Emirati if he would like a bag for the Emirati's ice cream purchase. The Emirati screamed at him, What kind of question is that?, Do I want a bag. Of course, I want a bag! Why do you ask me do I want a bag? This went on for about a minute and the clerk could say or do nothing. I admired the young clerk's courage and composure and was disgusted by this particular Emirati's response.
