10 Things I Learned in my 10 Years in Dubai

Today marks my 10th year in Dubai.

It was on March 29, 2008 that I flew from the Philippines to get my first ever UAE entry stamp on my passport. I can still remember how fast my heartbeat was while queueing at the immigration. It was my first solo out of the country trip and it wasn't just for a simple sightseeing. It was a serious move that could change my life forever! 

While waiting for my turn, I was silently repeating my cousin's mobile number and address. I should be able to say those confidently when the immigration officer asks. Frail and much shyer than ever, I took a deep breath and walked towards the counter. I anxiously smiled, gave my passport and my paper visa. I waited for a question, but he did not say a word. All I heard was a thump sound from the stamp.

And just like that, I was welcomed to Dubai!

10 years and more heart racing memories later, I still consider moving to Dubai as one of the best decisions I have ever made. This move has opened my eyes to the realities of life.

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10 Dishes to Try at the all-new Stars N Bars in La Mer Dubai

Last month, Ed and I had the pleasure of attending the pre-opening tasting of Stars'N'Bars La Mer. Along with some of the Dubai-based food bloggers, we had a sneak peek at the newly revamped menu which splendidly jibed with the good old SnB concept! We have been to Stars'N'Bars Yas Island a couple of years ago; hence, we were excited to see the improvements. Most especially when we knew that the brilliant yet humble Filipino Chef Andrew Paderes developed the new food offerings!

Stars'N'Bars is an American Sports Bar established in Monte Carlo where it is known to be a celebrity hang out spot! The branch in Abu Dhabi is already a popular nightlife venue, and their newest addition in La Mer Dubai is set to be one of the hippest bar/restaurants in the city! 

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How to Apply for Egypt Tourist Visa in Dubai

Seeing the pyramids of Giza has been in our travel plans since we set foot in Dubai! Egypt is just a short flight from the UAE, so ticking it off on our list seems easy. But every single time we talked about it, we hear sad news. Hence, we kept the idea of traveling to Egypt aside.

Late last year, the pyramids surfaced in one of our casual conversations again. And that time, we decided that there's no turning back! I booked our flight tickets and hotel stay, while Ed searched for the visa application procedure. That's his forte! :)

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A Special Arabic Lunch at Al Maeda Restaurant

Eat. Share. Love.

That is Al Maeda Restaurant's tagline. And that is exactly what we experienced when we went there for lunch last weekend! 

Location

Al Maeda is an upscale Arabic restaurant tucked inside Doubletree by Hilton Dubai - Jumeirah Beach. The hotel stands in a fantastic beachfront location at the end of The Walk - JBR. Thus, the dining venue offers amazing views of the Arabian Gulf and the nearly done Ain Dubai! 

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8 Days in Greece Itinerary and Expenses: Athens, Santorini, Naxos, Mykonos

Let's cap off our Big Fat Greek Holiday series with a blog post I know a lot have been waiting for! 

Whenever Ed and I travel, we often receive inquiries on our travel itinerary and expenses. Although I personally think that all these would depend on your travel style, and our choice of accommodation and activities may not be for everyone, we are always happy to share what we experienced.

As I often say, you can consider this blog post as a guide. Take whatever you think is helpful for you and include it in your self-made itinerary! So, without further ado, here's how we spent our days in Athens, Santorini, Naxos, and Mykonos!

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How to Apply for Greece Schengen Visa in Dubai with a guide on how to fill-in the Schengen Visa Application Form

A month before our trip to Greece last October 2017, Ed and I have to secure an essential travel document... a Schengen Visa! The multiple Schengen Visa that we got from the Embassy of France last 2016 was only valid for 3 months; hence, we have to undergo the entire process all over again. 

I love traveling, but I hate visa applications! It always seems like a tedious process and the waiting game is stressful. But when I realized that if I look at the bigger picture, thinking about the negativities won't get me anywhere! 

I began seeing this whole process in a different perspective: I hate visa applications, but I LOVE TRAVELING! And I must say, wanderlust - that strong desire to see the world - can easily shake off the what-ifs, the doubts, and the fear!

So, let's secure that Schengen Visa, shall we?

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