Dubai - striking modern architecture, sand and Lamborgini's.

A blood red sun rose over the huge wing of the Airbus 380-800. This Emirates aeroplane was ultra new and really really big. It was 29 degrees C when we taxied in to Dubai International airport at 5.30 am, soon to rise to nearly 40.

A hiccup with lost Kearney bags kept us waiting at the airport baggage counter for an hour.  It was quiet, efficient, clean, friendly and strangely soothing. Big cheers all round when the errant luggage finally rolled up.

When we arrived at the breakfast buffet at the Sheraton it was dinner time in NZ. This meant multiple courses, large and varied servings for all; it was excellent. Everyone scored a room upgrade but the winners were the Shearers.  We were installed in the massive eight- roomed penthouse suite with views of Dubai Creek on 2 sides.  Mmmm, a bit of luxury won’t go amiss before nine days in tents on the mountain.

As part of our acclimatisation training we had booked a tour of the highest building in the world.  Burg Khalifa is 160 stories and 850 metres high, but the lift only allowed us up to the 125^th floor.  The view was impressive, as was the brown smog that reduced visibility to a few kilometres.

 

Just as Kilimanjaro is one of the much sought-after Seven Summits, Dubai Mall is one of the much sought-after Seven Shopping Malls of the World.  Nicky was delighted to tick that one off.  The indoor aquarium was fun.

It was too hot for any other activity that day.  The pool provided relief from the fierce afternoon heat.  The Chelsea Arms Pub provided rehydration and familiar food.    Safe options with a trek starting in two days. We caught up with Mike and Michelle in Sri Lanka on a Messenger video call. They are enjoying green rolling hills and moderate temperatures, while we bake in this ultra wealthy oasis surrounded by sea and sand.