I have spent countless hours talking to the people here, and have learned a ton of information since my stay here! Here is some of what I learned:
1) Abu Dhabi has only been a country for 38 years!
2) There are NO taxes here (hard to believe, I know, but true!)
3) Abu Dhabi is an island
4) People from about 30 different countries live here
5) It has gotten as hot as 118 degrees here in the summer...ugh!
6) 95% of the population practice Islam
7) Abu Dhabi is the site of offshore boating events, martial arts events, and the 2010 World Swimming Championships
8) In Formula Indy street racing, usually a course is set up to meet the needs of a large city (ex: Long Beach). Here: they created a course FIRST, then built a huge city around it to meet the course's needs! INSANE!!!
9) The internets screens and blocks a large percentage of information as to protect religious values and beliefs ( AOL Instant Messenger program wont work here)
10) UAE houses the largest aquarium in the world
One more day of the clinic, woo hoo! I am definately ready to head back soon, I can only stand so much heat and hospitality! BTW, asked to have my laundry done this morning, a few hours later it came back, every article of clothing was washed (and had the best smell ever!), perfectly folded, and my shirts and pants pressed and starched...I couldnt believe how nice it was!!!
Had a wonderful dinner last night at a huge outdoor courtyard under palm trees with singing troubadors and a nice ocean breeze, I could EASILY get spoiled here! But alas, I must admit I can only put up with seeing billions of dollars in wealth for only so long, reality calls!
Will report again soon, goodnite all!
Ron
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