I had no idea where Abu Dhabi was until Rupert told me he had been offered a job there. He likes to get a proper job once every ten years or so, so he’s off to work on the business desk of a new newspaper called The National (www.thenational.ae).
“I’ll stay here,” I told him, imagining life as a single parent with a little trepidation. No one in their right mind wants sole responsibility for our three children, for every school run, every meal, every bit of shopping, ironing and homework.
Then my agent called me. A client of hers was going out too, to edit the new weekly magazine. Was I interested in working for her as a staff writer?
I decided to do some research into Abu Dhabi. This could be an interesting new slice of cake (see below blog). Here’s what I found out:
It’s hot
There are lots of parks
There are beaches
There are seven-star hotels
There are lots of shops, I mean SERIOUS amounts of shops
Most houses come with maid’s quarters
There are two French schools
The Louvre and the Guggenheim is about to open (good for when the shops are closed)
Dubai is close by
There are camels
There’s not much wine
I decided to join him and so after our European tour we are moving. The children are going to the French school and we are going to work. All very grown up. I will miss my afternoon kips and walks with wolfie but am extremely excited by this new adventure.
The children have taken it really well. Not a word of complaint and they’re really looking forward to it. Olivia did have two questions: “Are they handsome and will we have maids?”
“I don’t know,” I told her. “But we’re about to find out.”
Copyright: Helena Frith Powell 2008
You will love it! I lived in Dubai for two years back in the 80s working for What’s On Dubai and Emirates Woman. When I left I cried on the flight all the way home and still ask myself why we left (hubby wanted to work for himself). I think I left part of myself back there amongst the golden sand and stillness. (Yes I know it has changed and call me shallow I love the new Dubai too). Go have a great time Helena. So long French Mistress hello Arabian Princess. Julesritter.com
PS No more fake tan!
Thanks Jules, that does make me happy, not that you cried obviously, but that you loved it so much. I like the Arabian Princess, or maybe The Bimbo in the Burkah? Do they make them in pink….?
Hx
How exciting….. shops, cheap petrol (to die for…oh how my priorities have changed), warm sun on your back, plus Arabian Knights!
Enjoy the adventure x
Good luck to you all and i hope you enjoy this new adventure!! it sure is exciting! make sure you let us know how it goes etc.
Letty x
Really? You’re not kidding us? What a wonderful new adventure for you and your family!
Josephine
Helena,
I’ve always said life is an adventure. Hopefully, you won’t have to be covered by a burka and live a restricted life there. That’s the only thing that would worry me. Also, terrorists… that’s a dangerous hunk of earth. Good luck!
I don’t suppose they do pink burkas, do they?
Cool Helena,
have you seen the latest burkinis? You would look fab in pink . Hope you will have time to write on this blog. It would be very intersting to see how life is over there. You will love the weather and the beach, not to mention the shops! How long are you planning to stay?
It’s such an adventure to move. We have now been on our little Island in the West Indies for a year and love every minute. It’s so worth the agro of moving. Ya man.
Good luck to you all!
Hello all and thank you so much for your good wishes. Of course I will write about it here, and I feel a book coming on…..but meanwhile I am enjoying a few final bottles of rose and French life on the glorious Ile de Re.
Hx
How wonderfully exciting (despite the wine challenge!). I am a firm believer in fate and what is meant to be will be. Clearly this was meant to be! I’m looking forward to in depth reseach on milk and rose petal baths and other exotic beauty rituals!
I love reading your take of French life, it will be great to here all about life in the East. Will you keep your home for holidays? I’m living in Canada at present – great people but oh, I do miss the romance of places such a France and the East is just one step better!
My Goddaughter must have a maid of her own. Also a driver.
WOW, how exciting Helena!!! Congrats on your new posting in Abu Dabi, Ive met so many people who have lived and worked there and loved it. Designer tax free shops everywhere, what more can u ask for!!
Hope you continue to post us your adventures though!!
Just finished “To Hell in High Hells” Loved it – as I do with all your books, so relevant and informative, but witty and fun!! So far Ive sent away for Carolyns Faceial Excersies and have started pilates while trying to laugh at myself every morning in the mirror. Also saving up for some La Prarie moisturiser. Hope your lips are back to normal….Im sure they looked great!! You’ve always looked gorgeous whenever Ive seen you, cant believe you ever doubted your beauty.
Take care
Virginia
xoxo
Hi Virginia – that’s the kind of comment I like! Thank you. Actually instead of La Prairie go for Philosophy or another cream with active ingredients.
And to answer Natalie – yes we will keep the house, we’re looking for a tenant if anyone is interested.
Hx
How utterly fantastic. I still can’t believe you’re going, after writing so brilliantly in your books about the move to France. So here’s my question; as I’m struggling with my 3 hours + per day learning French (at school!!), will you take the plunge and learn whatever it is they speak in Abu Dhabi?! If you do, please share with us…
Good luck – what an adventure for all of you. I know you’ve got shops galore out there, but you know you won’t be able to hop on the Eurostar to Knightsbridge!
x
All the best with your new adventure. It will be quite a change from the Languedoc!
I wasn’t surprised you are keeping your house in France. Abu Dhabi will be great fun I’m sure, but equally it will be good to know that you can always easily return to la belle France!
I always assumed we’d meet in or near Montpellier. But I look forward to seeing you here. Do I qualify for a commission?
You may need to get used to South African wine since that, in my experience, offers the best value here.
Of course! I will bring you some Languedoc wine…
Ah, well.
Just don’t be gay there.
Even the most perfunctory Internet search brings up some rather unsavory official treatment of gays in Abu Dhabi.