Observation Notes

During my first 36 hours in Dubai:

I noticed the vast amount of car dealerships and exotic, expensive sports cars everywhere.
I realized that my idea of expensive after traveling in India and Nepal was going to have to change - a beer is $10.
There are taxis inside the mall.
They air condition even the outdoors when it's possible.
Going to the beach is like an episode of "Survivor" when it's 115degrees.
American restaurants and stores are ubiquitous.
The service industry is over the top - someone will open your car door,  put your napkin on your lap, and anticipate your water glass needing refilled.
There seem to be very few signs directing you where to go.
Pedestrians don't exist.
Bars are only inside hotels or business towers - no stand alone places.
There are VERY few Emiratatis - only 100,000 out of a population of 2 million.
Living in the lap of luxury is what is expected here.
People like that I'm an American - though few actually notice because there are so many foreigners.
Everything is hot when you're outside - the sand, the air, the sea water,  the beach showers, your water bottle...so so hot.
Everything is cold when you're inside - half the temperature.

Desert Safari tonight...should be interesting!