Not sure what’s up with my jet lag. I made it through the day on Tuesday finally hitting the sack around 9PM, but have now been up since 3:30AM. At least I got some sleep.
I have endured extreme heat before, but nothing prepared me for walking around yesterday. When I stopped at the concierge to check my directions for my planned jaunt, she said that I was very brave for undertaking such a walk and didn’t I want to take a cab? After about 15 minutes, I realized that she was probably right. The humidity wasn’t all that bad, but the heat is so intense that even my glasses were burning to the touch. It didn't help that I was in long pants as shorts are frowned upon here (can't reveal too much flesh).
I made it as far as the Gold Souk which was not all that interesting as neither Betsy nor I are very much into jewelry. Perhaps more interesting was that once I got a block from my hotel, I was in a blue-collar commercial section of town. There were shops offering just about anything one could want, yet none of them were particularly nice – mostly hole in the walls – but I got the sense that I was seeing part of Dubai that many tourists probably do not. It also seemed to be the center for shops that do custom modifications on cars. No garages – the work was being done right on the street in front of the storefronts.
Some other observations:
o I have a fairly dark complexion for a Caucasian so when traveling through Europe, no one really has ever pegged me as a tourist until I open my mouth and they hear my lousy accent. Here, however, I feel like a lily-white Irishman who hasn’t seen the light of day for months.
o Many Arab businessmen – essentially anyone in a white collar job – wear the traditional long white robe and headdress. I did not see many at all at the airport or on the ride to the hotel, but here at the Hyatt which plays host to many business meetings, at least 50% of the men in the lobby and other public areas were wearing just that, including the security guards. All the others were foreigners for the most part. I find it both interesting and somewhat amusing. The amusing part comes from the fact that in films and other exposure to the Arab world, I have always associated men in such dress as being leaders or royalty. Every time I pass an Arab man in the white flowing garb, my initial reaction is that he must be a sheik or emir when, in fact, he is just as likely to be the IT guy or a personnel manager.
o There are very few women in public here and many are dressed in black robes and fully veiled. Contrasted with this are the many commercials on TV featuring Western women in contemporary dress, until I realized that all of those commercials were for products that are geared towards outer appearance – cosmetics, weight loss products, etc.
When I returned to the hotel I checked out the attached upscale mini-mall which features an ice-skating rink, Fun Time Pizza (think Chucky Cheese) and Baskin Robbins. And everyone here seems to smoke, regardless of whether it is permitted or not. Now it makes sense why, on the flight from Paris, the crew repeated the fact that smoking is prohibited on board including in the lavatories about 8 times.
The revolving restaurant was completely booked last night so I ate in another of the hotel’s restaurants where I had an excellent Middle Eastern mixed grill before hitting the sack. Tonight I am hosting a dinner at what is supposed to be a very fancy Iranian restaurant (many of the restaurants in town are either Lebanese or Iranian).
More later.
Tuesday, September 04, 2007
Report from Dubai - Day One
As some of you know, I am in Dubai attending a conference on Global Healthcare Expansion as a business development effort. There is a tremendous amount of growth in the hospital and primary care markets here in the MENA region (Middle East-North Africa) and I am using this congress as a test to determine if there is a place for the services my team provides.
What is more interesting, however, is the trip itself and as some requested, I hope to blog about it here.
I left New York yesterday on the morning flight to Paris, connecting there to Dubai. I must say that business class on Air France doesn’t suck. The food was quite good, the seating comfortable, and although I was working and did not take advantage of it there is a very good selection of on-demand films.
As much as I tried – took melatonin, used ear plugs and an eye shade – I just couldn’t fall asleep for more than a few minutes at a time on the second leg which was an overnight flight from Paris. Consequently I am now going on 24 hours without sleep and with the exception of a potential brief nap later this afternoon, I don’t expect to go to sleep for another 10 hours or so.
The first “a-ha” moment I had was towards the end of the flight as I watched our progress on the moving map. We flew right between Baghdad and Tehran – two places that I have known only through news reports, none of which made either city seem that inviting. The plane was equipped with an external camera which was way cool for watching take-off and landing, but which also provided a straight down view while in flight. Flying over Iraq and Iran, the landscape looked strangely like the American southwest from 39,000 feet.
I did a lot of research for my trip here, both on the business side, as well as the cultural. I picked up an excellent book – “Understanding Arabs” by Margaret Nydell – which proved to be an invaluable resource in terms of understanding the culture based on both a historical and modern perspective. Most importantly, it helps debunk myths regarding the differences between Muslims and Islamic Fundamentalists and also provides much great information on understanding the social and etiquette standards I expect to encounter.
Prior to coming, I had planned – if asked – to indicate that I am an agnostic as I had heard that Judaism is not respected here. The book, however, corrected me. Arab issues are with Israel – not Judaism. As a matter of fact, Islam is very closely aligned with Judaism and Muslims consider their religion to be much closer to Judaism than to Christianity. The other thing I learned is that Arabs do not respect atheists or agnostics as they believe that being religious – no matter what the religion – is something to be highly respected. I believe that if asked (which I probably won’t be anyway) I will likely respond that I am Jewish, from an Eastern European background.
Reading the book, however, could not have prepared me for my arrival in Dubai. The view from the plane reminded me partly of Elizabeth, NJ (a major port with container shipping quite evident) and partly the skyline of Shanghai. Here I was hoping for a culturally significant experience yet on the drive from the airport to my hotel (Hyatt Regency in Deira on the Corniche overlooking the Arabian Gulf – known in the US as the Persian Gulf). I felt instead that I could have been in Atlanta, L.A. or Miami Beach. The cars are big (mostly Toyotas, Hondas and BMWs including many SUVs), the streets wide, the buildings modern. Everything is in both Arabic and English though I think that there was more English than Arabic. Passed a Hardees and a Chili’s. Can’t escape American fast food. The only difference so far, is that when exiting the terminal at the airport, there is a separate “Ladies Waiting Area” emphasizing the fact that a woman’s role in Arab culture is still very different than Western cultures.
My room at the hotel was ready when I arrived at 9AM and I have been on-line dealing with e-mail since I checked in. As the conference starts tomorrow morning I plan to take a shower and head out in the immediate area this afternoon to check out the Gold Souk (market), Spice Souk, and take a boat ride across Dubai Creek to the Bur Dubai section of town. I plan to grab a shwarma for lunch and dinner will probably be at the hotel tonight in the revolving roof top restaurant. The views from the 25th floor are supposed to be spectacular and the international buffet pretty decent. Will report back soon. Ma’a ssalama (Goodbye) and a-salaam alaykum (Peace be upon you)!
What is more interesting, however, is the trip itself and as some requested, I hope to blog about it here.
I left New York yesterday on the morning flight to Paris, connecting there to Dubai. I must say that business class on Air France doesn’t suck. The food was quite good, the seating comfortable, and although I was working and did not take advantage of it there is a very good selection of on-demand films.
As much as I tried – took melatonin, used ear plugs and an eye shade – I just couldn’t fall asleep for more than a few minutes at a time on the second leg which was an overnight flight from Paris. Consequently I am now going on 24 hours without sleep and with the exception of a potential brief nap later this afternoon, I don’t expect to go to sleep for another 10 hours or so.
The first “a-ha” moment I had was towards the end of the flight as I watched our progress on the moving map. We flew right between Baghdad and Tehran – two places that I have known only through news reports, none of which made either city seem that inviting. The plane was equipped with an external camera which was way cool for watching take-off and landing, but which also provided a straight down view while in flight. Flying over Iraq and Iran, the landscape looked strangely like the American southwest from 39,000 feet.
I did a lot of research for my trip here, both on the business side, as well as the cultural. I picked up an excellent book – “Understanding Arabs” by Margaret Nydell – which proved to be an invaluable resource in terms of understanding the culture based on both a historical and modern perspective. Most importantly, it helps debunk myths regarding the differences between Muslims and Islamic Fundamentalists and also provides much great information on understanding the social and etiquette standards I expect to encounter.
Prior to coming, I had planned – if asked – to indicate that I am an agnostic as I had heard that Judaism is not respected here. The book, however, corrected me. Arab issues are with Israel – not Judaism. As a matter of fact, Islam is very closely aligned with Judaism and Muslims consider their religion to be much closer to Judaism than to Christianity. The other thing I learned is that Arabs do not respect atheists or agnostics as they believe that being religious – no matter what the religion – is something to be highly respected. I believe that if asked (which I probably won’t be anyway) I will likely respond that I am Jewish, from an Eastern European background.
Reading the book, however, could not have prepared me for my arrival in Dubai. The view from the plane reminded me partly of Elizabeth, NJ (a major port with container shipping quite evident) and partly the skyline of Shanghai. Here I was hoping for a culturally significant experience yet on the drive from the airport to my hotel (Hyatt Regency in Deira on the Corniche overlooking the Arabian Gulf – known in the US as the Persian Gulf). I felt instead that I could have been in Atlanta, L.A. or Miami Beach. The cars are big (mostly Toyotas, Hondas and BMWs including many SUVs), the streets wide, the buildings modern. Everything is in both Arabic and English though I think that there was more English than Arabic. Passed a Hardees and a Chili’s. Can’t escape American fast food. The only difference so far, is that when exiting the terminal at the airport, there is a separate “Ladies Waiting Area” emphasizing the fact that a woman’s role in Arab culture is still very different than Western cultures.
My room at the hotel was ready when I arrived at 9AM and I have been on-line dealing with e-mail since I checked in. As the conference starts tomorrow morning I plan to take a shower and head out in the immediate area this afternoon to check out the Gold Souk (market), Spice Souk, and take a boat ride across Dubai Creek to the Bur Dubai section of town. I plan to grab a shwarma for lunch and dinner will probably be at the hotel tonight in the revolving roof top restaurant. The views from the 25th floor are supposed to be spectacular and the international buffet pretty decent. Will report back soon. Ma’a ssalama (Goodbye) and a-salaam alaykum (Peace be upon you)!
Wednesday, June 13, 2007
I'm SO Proud Of My Brother!
I have always been very proud of my brother Doug and impressed with all his accomplishments. He is an incredibly smart, talented, funny, and articulate scholar, gentleman, and all-around great guy. Today, however, he made me even prouder!
I am very happy to report that effective immediately, Doug is taking a leave of absence from his faculty position with the University of Maryland to assume the position of Staff Director of the Congressional Executive Commission on China for the duration of the 110th Congress (ends January 2009). Combining all his considerable experience, my brother will be sitting on Capitol Hill helping to guide the country's efforts in the monitoring of human rights and development of the rule of law in China. There are nine Senators, nine members of the House of Representatives and five senior Administration officials who sit as commissioners.
I can't stop smiling . . . Just wait 'til Mom hears about it!
I am very happy to report that effective immediately, Doug is taking a leave of absence from his faculty position with the University of Maryland to assume the position of Staff Director of the Congressional Executive Commission on China for the duration of the 110th Congress (ends January 2009). Combining all his considerable experience, my brother will be sitting on Capitol Hill helping to guide the country's efforts in the monitoring of human rights and development of the rule of law in China. There are nine Senators, nine members of the House of Representatives and five senior Administration officials who sit as commissioners.
I can't stop smiling . . . Just wait 'til Mom hears about it!
Thursday, May 31, 2007
RIP Studio 60
It has been a long time since I was upset about a television show being canceled. Certainly part of the reason is due to the load of crap that is on network airwaves, so there's not that much to miss in the first place.
This past season saw two shows debut that are based not so loosely on my beloved Saturday Night Live. 30 Rock started out uneven but continued to grow on me. It is some of the best stuff that Alec Baldwin has ever done and although Tracy Morgan and Judah Friedlander continue to amuse and entertain, and Jack McBrayer's Kenneth may be the most memorable character in a long time, it is Baldwin that keeps me coming back - especially when in a catfight with Isabella Rossellini (one of the 3 most beautiful women in the world in my book, the other two being Catherine Deneuve and Ashley Judd).
But that's a sitcom. Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip is one of the best dramedies on the tube. It mixes sharp, crisp, and intelligent dialogue with a backstage view much more real than 30 Rock. Although the story lines are somewhat above average and sometimes jump the shark (e.g. the two-part Pahrump episode), the acting, the script, and the characters kept me coming back. Especially for anyone who has seen D.L. Hughley on stage doing his act, Studio 60 provides a view into just how smart and articulate this actor/comedian is and also highlights Timothy Busfield's talents which have gone largely wasted since thirtysomething and Revenge of the Nerds.
There were a number of on-line petitions that obviously failed to make a difference to the network execs who will end its run at the end of this season. I'm in no position to argue given that I have nothing to do with the business, but I question the intelligence of those that cancel shows like Studio 60, not to mention Arrested Development. I know that eyeballs are what keep shows on the air - someone's got to pay the bills - but it's just a darn shame when quality programming suffers as a result.
Rest In Peace Studio 60 and may the DVD set of the one and only season be out soon.
This past season saw two shows debut that are based not so loosely on my beloved Saturday Night Live. 30 Rock started out uneven but continued to grow on me. It is some of the best stuff that Alec Baldwin has ever done and although Tracy Morgan and Judah Friedlander continue to amuse and entertain, and Jack McBrayer's Kenneth may be the most memorable character in a long time, it is Baldwin that keeps me coming back - especially when in a catfight with Isabella Rossellini (one of the 3 most beautiful women in the world in my book, the other two being Catherine Deneuve and Ashley Judd).
But that's a sitcom. Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip is one of the best dramedies on the tube. It mixes sharp, crisp, and intelligent dialogue with a backstage view much more real than 30 Rock. Although the story lines are somewhat above average and sometimes jump the shark (e.g. the two-part Pahrump episode), the acting, the script, and the characters kept me coming back. Especially for anyone who has seen D.L. Hughley on stage doing his act, Studio 60 provides a view into just how smart and articulate this actor/comedian is and also highlights Timothy Busfield's talents which have gone largely wasted since thirtysomething and Revenge of the Nerds.
There were a number of on-line petitions that obviously failed to make a difference to the network execs who will end its run at the end of this season. I'm in no position to argue given that I have nothing to do with the business, but I question the intelligence of those that cancel shows like Studio 60, not to mention Arrested Development. I know that eyeballs are what keep shows on the air - someone's got to pay the bills - but it's just a darn shame when quality programming suffers as a result.
Rest In Peace Studio 60 and may the DVD set of the one and only season be out soon.
Monday, April 30, 2007
Who Says Flying Isn't Fun Anymore
Was at Newark airport on Sunday on my way to the gate for my flight when over the P.A. the following was heard:
Attention, Continental Airlines is paging Darth Vader. Darth Vader, please meet your party at Gate 95. Darth Vader, please meet your party, Luke Skywalker, at Gate 95. Your flight for Star Wars is now boarding.
Perplexed faces were everywhere. More curious than amused as some public spaces such as airports use code names when alerting security personnel to an incident. This is what I thought might be happening as I assumed that airports had become devoid of humor. Perplexed turned to giggles as the next announcement followed only a few seconds later:
Attention, Continental Airlines is paging Mickey Mouse. Mickey Mouse, please meet your party at Gate 95. Mickey Mouse, please meet your party, Minnie Mouse, at Gate 95 for immediate boarding and departure to Orlando.
Attention, Continental Airlines is paging Darth Vader. Darth Vader, please meet your party at Gate 95. Darth Vader, please meet your party, Luke Skywalker, at Gate 95. Your flight for Star Wars is now boarding.
Perplexed faces were everywhere. More curious than amused as some public spaces such as airports use code names when alerting security personnel to an incident. This is what I thought might be happening as I assumed that airports had become devoid of humor. Perplexed turned to giggles as the next announcement followed only a few seconds later:
Attention, Continental Airlines is paging Mickey Mouse. Mickey Mouse, please meet your party at Gate 95. Mickey Mouse, please meet your party, Minnie Mouse, at Gate 95 for immediate boarding and departure to Orlando.
Monday, April 23, 2007
Quickies
There have been so many things I wanted to post recently, and I just never get a chance. Here are a few quickies.
-*-*-*-
My wife was reading something to Molly, our 7-year old, that included the word "rheumatism." Betsy asked Molly if she knew what that word meant. Molly very proudly said, "Sure. It means having to do with being in your room."
-*-*-*-
Saw the following license plate on a FedEx delivery truck: PLZNOTKT
-*-*-*-
Boris Yeltsin died today. He always was so sickly, I just assumed he was already dead.
-*-*-*-
I now know two people who have seen, on separate occasions, a man in Penn Station wearing a pink tutu.
-*-*-*-
A couple of weeks ago there were news reports that Keith Richards had reportedly snorted a mix of cocaine and the ashes of his dead father's cremated remains. It was later denied by his publicist, but not before Richards mentioned that he was on the "Most Likely To Die" list for 10 years and was annoyed that he was taken off. Why does none of this surprise me?
More when I think of it.
-*-*-*-
My wife was reading something to Molly, our 7-year old, that included the word "rheumatism." Betsy asked Molly if she knew what that word meant. Molly very proudly said, "Sure. It means having to do with being in your room."
-*-*-*-
Saw the following license plate on a FedEx delivery truck: PLZNOTKT
-*-*-*-
Boris Yeltsin died today. He always was so sickly, I just assumed he was already dead.
-*-*-*-
I now know two people who have seen, on separate occasions, a man in Penn Station wearing a pink tutu.
-*-*-*-
A couple of weeks ago there were news reports that Keith Richards had reportedly snorted a mix of cocaine and the ashes of his dead father's cremated remains. It was later denied by his publicist, but not before Richards mentioned that he was on the "Most Likely To Die" list for 10 years and was annoyed that he was taken off. Why does none of this surprise me?
More when I think of it.
Saturday, March 10, 2007
Plain Jane Ain't So Plain
My friend, neighbor, and colleague Jane Seskin recently didn't retire. That is to say, Jane is someone who will never retire, but rather continue to start new chapters in her life.
In this new chapter, Jane has created a unique selection of cards. Please visit her website (also in my list of Fun Links on the right) and peruse the witty, profound, and charming selection. Even better, tell all your friends and relatives!
In this new chapter, Jane has created a unique selection of cards. Please visit her website (also in my list of Fun Links on the right) and peruse the witty, profound, and charming selection. Even better, tell all your friends and relatives!
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