Dubizzle

A month ago we found out about an opportunity for us to move to Dubai with Ram's company.  A few weeks later, Ram accepted and last week we went for our looksee.  The last time I went to Dubai, it was 2007, and so much has changed since then so it felt like I was visiting a new city.  

If I had to describe Dubai in one word, it would be luxurious. If I had to compare it to a city, it would be Vegas.  The architecture and decor in the buildings and hotels (all of which are 5-star quality) are gorgeous.  I felt underdressed walking around in my black sun dress, tory burch sandals and purse.  Everywhere you turn people are decked out in their finest. I couldn't turn a corner without bumping into a Fendi/Gucci/Louis Vuitton strutting person. Dubai is not good for my shop-a-holic tendencies. 

Hanging out at the Mall is the cool thing to do.  It's no longer just a hang out for teens who cannot go the bars/clubs.  It's where you get good food (my ex-pat friends can appreciate this: Shake Shak, PF Changs, Cheesecake Factory, Popeyes to name a few), book city tours, visit the underwater aquarium, go grocery shopping, and enjoy indoor skiing. The shopping is amazing in Dubai, all my friends are here: Fendi, Gucci, Burberry, but it's 20-30% MORE expensive than the US. Congratulations Ram, you finally found a way to curb this addiction of mine.  

They also have freeways and normal sized driving lanes and drive thrus! Oh, how I've missed the convenience of the drive thru. This idea is severely underrated in Europe. I will probably gain 10 pounds re-acquainting myself with Wendy's and Burger King but I know I'll sweat it out walking from my front door to my car. The heat combined with the big city factor make me nervous to make the transition from Aberdeen to Dubai, but I know we're moving in the right direction.  Australia, New Zealand, Indonesia, India, Thailand, Malaysia, I've got my sights on you.  

But sadly my love affair with bonnie Scotland is coming to an end. I will definitely miss living in a city with four seasons, castles and nothing but countryside.  Not to mention our amazing ex-pat friends, all of which have made Aberdeen feel like home.  I feel very lucky to have met all of you and will miss you on this new adventure.  We hope you visit:) Now hurry back from all of your vacations so we can maximize our last few months here!