“The world is round and the place which may seem like the end may also be the beginning.” ~ Ivy Baker Priest
I was adamant to share this piece of news but some concerned friends had been sending feelers about this. I know that some would raise their eyebrows on this decision. YES, this is to confirm that I am leaving this place soon. NO, I am not a victim of the worldwide financial crisis. My decision of leaving one of the top organisation in the world has nothing to do with that crisis. I had been thinking about this decision since day-one. I admit that my plan of going back home could be a preparation for a long-term decision that may happen some months or a year from now. Nevertheless, my only focus at this time is just to be with my family and to work closer from home. Well, no matter where my feet lead me, the planet jongoloids will remain in its orbit. Cheers!
I bought this camel stuff toy for our little miss Coleen. When I informed her about it, she said “Thank you Dad Jong… ingat.” How sweet for a child to say that.
By the way, I heared this from Bo Sanchez today: “To have fun you need to go out of your comfort zone. You know, we like a chair; we like a bed because it doesn’t move. We like to be in one place to rest and ahhh… Are you having fun? If not, maybe you’ve been too long in your comfort zone. Let’s go to the courage zone. Because the courage zone is where you begin to have fun and excitement in life. Let’s go!”
“Courage is shown in acts, not in words; it is not bluffing, arrogance, or madness. A courageous man is the one who dares to do what he finds is right, and bears the consequences of his acts – whether they are political, social or individual. A man can obey others for two reasons: for fear of being punished, or for love. Obedience that comes from love of others is a thousand times stronger than fear of punishment.” (Mahatma Ghandi, 1869–1948)
Dhow Cruise offers an experience of a dinner aboard a traditional Arabic Dhow (wooden vessel) that glides along the Dubai creek. It gives a fascinating view of traditional and modern Dubai at night.
Two weeks ago, I joined Arnel and Charrie (refer to my previous blog) on a dhow cruise dinner which we have booked through Lama Tours. Tonight, I went on another dhow cruise again to join my visiting colleagues from our Poland team. We were booked through Arabian Tours.
I have seen some slight difference on how the two vessels were decorated along with the type of food and services the respective tour company provides. I don’t want to sound bias so there is no point for me to list the differences. What is more important is that I enjoyed the experience in both occasions. A must-try activity for those who are planning to visit this place.
A rare opportunity and a sweet way to wrap up my journey in this part of the world. “A cloud does not know why it moves in just such a direction and at such speed. It feels an impulsion … this is the place to go now. But the sky knows the reasons and the patterns behind all clouds, and you will know, too, when you lift yourself high enough to see beyond the horizons.” (The Alchemist) 
Aside from dune bashing, camel rides, belly dancing, henna painting, shisha and barbeque dinner; another activity in a desert safari tour is the chance to put on the traditional costumes.
