Abu Dhabi (UAE)

Known as the laid back brother of Dubai, although being the capital.  Bus ride to AD event free, 2 hour (air con'd) journey for just 4 quid.  Second hotel was more 'downtown' than the last.  Very busy spot.  In the land of oil we have found taxis are nice and cheap. 
We headed out to the  Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque for a free 10am tour.  All ladies to don the burqa before going inside, gents ok in trousers.  Shoes off all the way.  A beautiful building, very understated with plenty of gold, crystals and the worlds largest carpet weighing in at only 35 tonnes.  Hard to believe that the local composting plant had more recognition on the map than the mosque itself (5th largest in the world).  With Ramadan coming up it was all hands to the pump with polishing the gold.

This weekend, especially Friday all were out in force given it was the last weekend prior to Ramadan.  The streets were packed and the beaches were full with families having fun.  A nice change to a land where nobody seems to kick back and relax.

Dinner at the Marina Mall Tower as recommended, was at the top of the tower in the revolving restaurant.   We had once course in one rotation.  Great views even if a bit creaky (must be the heat). One course/rotation was all our budget could stretch to.  We skipped coffees and headed for the elevator, trouble is, it had moved!

Opted for a bit of glam on our last day and went for afternoon tea at the Emirates Palace (7* hotel).  Collar and skirt was the order of the day, even if a little creased (the true traveller look).  Cucumber sandwiches and scones with Devonshire cream! 

Miss
F - Blagging a day in a 7* hotel!
D - Cheap taxis

Won't miss
F - Call for prayer at 4.30 am
D - No PDA allowed!