Grace had a class field trip to Heritage Village last week. She told us all about it. We decided to visit as a family last Saturday.
Heritage Village is a living museum. It is a replica of what life was like here in Abu Dhabi up until the 1960's, only 50 years ago. They have camel rides, a small farm with animals, irrigation system with a water buffalo, houses made from various types of vegetation, a tiny souq, beach, a cultural museum, glass blowing, leather goods, and various trades exhibited. We spent a few hours here. The kids - of course - spent most of their time on the beach front and riding the camels. I am amazed at the contrast of "now and then". The museum draws no comparison. But you walk out side the village or onto the beach and view the skyscrapers and see the cars, even types of cars, and all that is available to all the residents now. It is mind boggling.
All this in almost my entire lifetime- (no, I am not 50), but in such few years a major city is erected. I am not saying it entirely functions as I would like :), but the fact that we can pretty much replicate our lives from the USA is amazing to me.
Today we don't, but almost everyday we have running water. We can get cheetos, Hagaan Daaz ice cream, there is even a special "pork room" in some grocery stores in case you have that craving for bacon and salami. We can shop at The Gap, IKEA, Guess, Body Shop, Toys R us, Ace Hardware, etc. We have the options of eating out at Pizza Hut, La Boulanger, Fuddruckers and even Taco Bell. We have a swimming pool in our backyard and a great clubhouse with squash court, tennis court, sauna, steam bath, gym and pool. We have internet in our home and the electrical outlets all pretty much work. I even get bottled water delivered to my home for a very small fee.
The only things I can not seem to find is a crock pot and a steady supply of Campbells Cream of Chicken soup.
Here are a few pics of the day.
Audrey at the well.
The souq- small market with your typical touristy type trinkets.
Embroiderd Slippers
In case you are taking up belly-dancing.
Yes, I cut Sullivan's hair this morning after posting this...
Grace inside a traditional woven hut. The thing she is holding is to cover food.
Sullivan and Hazel tormenting the ducks.
Hazel- I can not believe how much she has grown!
View from the beach. This is the type of contrast I am talking about. An Emirati teenager in traditional dress out riding a jet ski. Awesome!
Abu Dhabi skyline in the background.
Quin and I. The sun was brilliant that day.
Audrey finding crabs - of course!
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