Foto: The front of the Burj Al Arab is illuminated at night (bron: Ronald van der Veer)
United_Arab_Emirates - In the evening, we dine at the seven-star Burj al Arab hotel. The Burj al Arab is the most luxurious hotel in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The building, over 300 meters high, stands on an island off the coast. It is designed in the shape of a dhow sail (a type of Arab ship), as boats play an important role in Dubai. We are dropped off at the entrance. I walk through the revolving door inside. The first impression is overwhelming. The hotel lobby stretches up to the top floor, with rooms on both sides. The balconies are finished with gold. I take the escalator to the lobby. On my left is a striking fountain, and to the right, I pass a large aquarium on the way up. The fish are already accustomed to the scene. Upstairs, a second fountain alternates its water streams, sometimes shooting dozens of meters into the air. A hostess welcomes us and shows us to our table. My chair is pulled out, and my napkin is placed neatly on my lap. The buffet is extensive. The chef explains the different types of fish to me as I serve myself: squid, salmon roe, sushi, crab, oysters. Practically everything is available. I select only the special dishes. Between courses, I occasionally stroll through the hotel—the lobby, the golden corridor to the toilets, and the golden elevators to the 27th and top floor. The panoramic restaurant at the top is not accessible. I descend again via the panorama lift to the ground floor and end the evening with a cappuccino and chocolates. Outside, I take a few night shots of the illuminated Burj al Arab. Back at our own hotel, I reflect for a long time on this amazing evening.
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