Sand Dunes, Camels and Falcons

Today was much calmer as the winds and sand storm had subsided. While Mrs. SFO777 relaxed in our suite, I headed up to the main lodge for 4x4 sand dune experience with our Al Maha guide Brett. Nice early morning spread of coffee, juices, pastries and more.

And we're off from the lodge across the desert...

Past the gates of the old entrance to Al Maha.

Thru the gates to the sand preserve area.

Amazing scenery where the sand storm had rearranged the landscape with new dunes and covered tire tracks from previous days. Kind of like fresh powder snow at a ski resort.

And more scenery. I have absolutely no idea how she wandered into the pic.

And on our drive back, a family of oryx.

Back at the resort, I retreived Mrs. SFO777 and we headed back up for breakfast.

My eggs benedict were delicious.

With clearer skies and a beautiful suite, we decided to stay in today and read, relax and catch up on jet lagged sleep.

Maintenance cleaned our pool vaccuming up all the sand that had blow in over the last day or so.

We ordered from in room dining and enjoyed lunch outside.

My lamb kofta was very good.

The chocolate fondant decadent.

At around 5pm we head up to the lodge for our camel ride.

The ride launch point was just beyond the spa building, a 5 minute walk from the lodge.

OK, this is pretty cool.

Mrs. SFO777 last rode a camel as 6 year old when she lived in Morocco while her dad served in the U.S. Air Force.

Twenty-five minutes later we arrived at the reception area where champagne was served by the Al Maha staff.

After a pleasant stop and glass of champagne, we headed back to the resort. What a cool experience.

Back at the lodge, time for a drink on the terrace overlooking the desert.

Later that evening we headed back to Al Diwaan and dinner.

I got up very early the next morning and head up to the lodge and our Falconry session. Not quite as interactive as at Ashford Castle, but enjoyable nonetheless. Al Maha guide Brett.