Concept Leaving behind the hustle and bustle of the city, our group of 70 people, led by trained safari guides, was taken deep into the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve on 4×4 vehicles.
We travelled convoy style in 14 vehicles with our driver making sure that we were all wearing safety belts before the journey started. He also pointed out where the barf bags are, and I quickly understood why once we hit the dunes.
As we drove up and down the dunes, we first timers were clinging on to the rails for dear life. It was similar to being in a rollercoaster hurtling left and ride at every turn. Thrilling as it was, we felt safe in the hands of our experienced driver.
While whizzing through the reserve, I was lucky to spot a gazelle, Oryx and a sand fox.
MICE application Arabian Adventures, the local DMC that arranged for our safari experience, can customise programmes according to the organisers’ wishes and budget.
Our group, for example, stopped after a 25 minute drive so that everyone could get down, stretch their legs and get a breather. Many used this opportunity to take selfies and wefies in the desert.
We then continued on to the next stop, where carpets and cushions were laid out for us to kick back and take in the picturesque view of the sun setting in the west. Here, we were served drinks and snacks, and treated to a live demonstration of how a falcon hunts.
This was followed by a third and final stop in the desert. It was set up as a traditional Bedouin-style camp where we enjoyed a feast of grilled meats, fresh salads and a wide selection of Middle Eastern dishes. A belly dancer also entertained guests. Participants could also choose to get their hands painted with henna, or enjoy a camel ride.
Service The whole trip was well-organised, the service was excellent and the food was delicious. Our guides always placed safety and comfort of their guests as their top consideration and made sure we had a great time.
Contact
Arabian Adventures
Tel: (971) 4274 8754
Email: tours@arabian-adventures.com
Originally planned for April, the fourth year of premier gastronomic event Madrid Fusion Manila is put on hold following its sudden transfer from the Philippine Department of Tourism (DoT) to the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB).
TPB is negotiating with Spain-based Foro de Debate, owner of the Madrid Fusion franchise, for the new date of the event, according to Maricon Ebron, TPB’s officer-in-charge, office of the deputy chief operating officer for marketing and promotions sector.
Ebron commented that it is now too late to hold it in April as TPB has yet to issue the tenders for the event management and venue, which in the last three years went to the Philippine Association of Convention/Exhibition Organizers and Suppliers (PACEOS) and SMX Convention Center Manila, respectively.
Holding it in end-July or early-August is in doubt as well because it will clash with mega event World Food Expo. TPB and Foro de Debate are also concerned about the availability of foreign chefs to participate in Madrid Fusion Manila.
Pamela Samaniego, DoT’s project director for Madrid Fusion Manila 2018, explained that the handling of the gastronomy event was transferred to TPB since the latter is responsible for the venue and event management bids, a standard procedure for government agencies.
The gastronomy event has helped put underrated Filipino cuisine and ingredients onto the international table, gaining the attention of critics and foodies alike as the next big food trend.