Down to Palm Jumeirah - 8 August

Still not waking early, so behind the eight ball on getting on the move. Breakfast and coffee, then underway to Palm Jumeirah. This trip takes us pretty much along Dubai's coastal length and across much of its Metro service. The Metro is outstanding, just two lines, 47 stations (2 of which are interconnecting). The Metro is almost exclusively built high above the ground, so excellent views. Purchased a full day multi use, all zone, ticket today. After Green line interchange, the Red line is crowded this morning but Pat is immediately offered a seat as we head to Damac Properties station for interchange on to the Dubai tram (a single line and really a light rail). Big mistake here as we sat in the "women & children only" pink zone and I was soon corrected by an on board official (avoiding the 100UAD fine for such a transgression). So there are Silver Zones (standard), Gold Zones, Women & Children Only Zones, but no old man zones!!

A few stops on the tram (tram & stations all air conditioned) and then an interchange onto the non-public transport monorail along the trunk of the Palm to the famous Atlantis Palm Hotel. It is adjoined by an enormous water park, has a massive aquarium within, and a re-created Lost City of Atlantis underneath. We spend time around the giant aquarium windows then have a drink at a Gordon Ramsay establishment in the complex.

Reverse journeys back to Raffles. We pass hundreds and hundreds and hundreds of high rise towers of all shapes and heights (and another hundred under construction). I should also mention that my earlier "more than 100 Five Star hotels" was a serious error (must have a very old map) - my updated figure, 550. Yes, 550 - and many of them would challenge Seven Stars!!

Getting off the train, Pat is approached by a younger woman in a full burkha looking for help. I think she had an eye problem and had a clinic address but she did not want to go into another clinic for directions (we are in an area full of hospitals and clinics), she just wanted a taxi. I hailed one for her and she was very thankful, shaking hands with Pat and telling us how lovely Australia is (not sure she had been).

Late afternoon tea and a feet up. I should have mentioned earlier how we are inundated with attendants. We seem to have a Butler, an under Butler and assistant to the Under Butler - as well as our room service man. As soon as we go out someone is tidying, replenishing coffee, folding clothes etc, etc. As soon as we get back, the bell rings to see if we are happy or if we need anything. Getting back in harness will be difficult for Pat!!

Canapes ie meal & drinks, then venture into WAFI Mall. Below the Mall there is a big re-created, two level Souk - perfumes, clothes, spices, antiques etc. Not sure how they make a living, but Pat bought a dress at what we were assured was "best price"- five times dearer in his shop in Dubai Mall we were assured!!!

Day over. News of the day, a 26 year old Brit driving a rented Lamhorghini ran up 170,000 UAD in speeding fines in just under 4 hours in the early hours if 1 July - clocked at speeds up to 231km/hr on 33 speed radars!!!