I just couldn't stay away any longer. On a spur of the moment decision I bought a ticket for Abu Dhabi last Thursday and flew over to see Russell and Talitha. They headed to AD from Dubai and I met them there early Friday morning. And I mean early. I landed at 6 am which meant i was at the Doha airport by 4 am. So out the door by 3:30...you get the picture. But it was worth it! We talked about the wedding, ate breakfast at a favorite place, Mugg and Bean(coincidentally a South African chain) , took naps and then headed to this new festival in downtown Abu Dhabi. Qasr al Hosn Festival which centers around the Qasr al Hosn or Palace Fort. I have wanted for years to get in there. It's a fort that sits in the middle of the city and until this year it has been closed to the public. The watchtower, the first structure, was built in 1761 to protect the freshwater well discovered in Abu Dhabi. In 1793 the ruling Sheikh expanded it into a small fort and residence with further additions in the 1930s. The Fort was the seat of government in Abu Dhabi until 1966. For five years I drove by it, just itching to get in. In spite of the sandstorm blowing across the entire Gulf Region, the three of us headed out and my wish was finally granted! They are doing a great job restoring it and preserving it. It was fun to see it with the kids. :)
