Playing in the Sandbox

Not really a trip to the beach but we did stop for a refreshing swim in a wadi (valley of a stream) before heading out to our two night stay in the desert. The Wadi Bani Khalip has a naturally created swimming hole fed by waters of the rainy season. The water temperature in this wadi is about 29C today and is a wonderful respite from the heat. We are supposed to wear traditional and modest swimming attire, but most tourists ignore the signs and forgo the formality of burkinis. As we head further inland the terrain is sandy brown with shale grey mountains with periodic groupings of date palm trees scattered throughout secluded areas. This is our first encounter with a desert setting, and I am in awe of the unique surroundings. The rolling sandy dunes bathed in a light red hue of coloration. This makes one realize this is truly a horse or camel of a different colour. The first sign that we were embarking on a different kind of adventure was when our small group of thirteen plus host Gordon, local guide Zahir and our main driver Hassim were loaded into four 4 x 4s for the drive to the desert encampment. First stop was the local garage to let the air out of the tires for more traction in the sand and the virtually perpendicular assaults of the shifting dunes. A real thrill ride with lots of expletives while we climbed then drop into a void on the descents. (See video)

The venture into the desert did not disappoint. Numerous stops for camel pics and camel petting along with securing a good vantage point for the inevitable sunset. The sand and dunes stretch as far as the eye can see as the sun begins its slow descent below the horizon. The change of light and the shifting flows of the dunes leads to a transformation not generally encountered. It is quiet with the exception of the Arabic chatter of the drivers making coffee and the whispering of the desert breeze. With a couple of the faithful performing evening prayers and the occasional camel silhouetted in the distance, completes the setting. Another day, another market. Today’s visit to the souk was dedicated to strictly women plying their wares of cloth, ornamental trim and clothing. We bought a couple of leggings for the grans at about $3.50 each. We are requested not to take pictures, and we comply as best as we can. The highlight of the day was visiting and being hosted by a local sheik. In charge of three tribes, this sheik is basically judge, jury and in charge of all affairs pertaining to his people. A nonelected individual of privilege who inherits the role from his father passing the title down to his eldest son. He looks like he is straight out of central casting and the rifles hanging on the wall bring visions of the Taliban fighting in Afghanistan. Allahu Akbar الله أكبر