After advising Natalie to reduce the number of socks, shorts, tops etc taken in her heavy rucksack and saying farewell to family and friends, we finally set off with our flight to Dubai at 8.30pm on 31st March. We were both impressed at the level of service on the Emirates airlines- not forgetting the tv on each seat with loads of movies, music and games. Claire also met her dream guy- a 70 year old man who invited us for lunch at his luxury hotel! After a long deliberation, this was unfortunately declined.

We arrived in the early morning in Dubai and our hotel was very nice. We bought tickets for the big tour bus to see all the sights of Dubai. The weather was extremely hot but this made a welcome change from the UK. We did experience a few dodgy looks from the guys there in the traditional part of Dubai where we were staying. Would perhaps recommend staying where the beach resort area is in future. We also experienced an Ice Bar where the temperature is set at -6 and everything is made out of ice (even the glasses!). We even had to wear eskimo suits to enter!!

Our second day also happened to be Nat's birthday and the morning was spent on a river cruise on the Creek. The scenery was really nice and the ride very relaxing. Then a long wait at the airport where we spent a long 10 hours waiting for our plane.....!!! Apparantly, no taxis' run from where our hotel was?!! Did they see the English coming? Don't worry though- we soon passed the time with a celebratory birthday cake, playing cards and the amazing tax free shops.

Next stop: Melbourne. (Photos to be added).