Belgium Tattoo Blog = Day 1
After a long 17 hour flight we finally touched down in Dubai and were hit with a massive heat wave I dont think anyone was prepared for. We arrived at 5.30am and despite being tired we were excited to explore. Off to the Dubai mall we trotted for a tour at the top. The Burj Khalifa, standing at 828m tall, left us all feeling a bit queasy but view itself was breathtaking.
After surveying the city and in spite of the long hall flight, we were ready to shop. We were let loose on the Dubai mall before heading back to change for our desert safari.
We had been given strict instructions not to eat 2 hours before our safari and we soon found out why. With seatbelts fastened (and boy did we need it) we were taken on a thrilling four wheel drive through the desert leaving a few of us feeling a little green around the gills. We had plenty of time for photo opportunities and a chance to try surfing down the sand dunes which is definitely harder than it looks.
When we were well and truly thrilled and worn down we were taken to a makeshift camp in the desert where we were able to ride camels in the heat of the afternoon sun. It was then time for a barbecue dinner as we watched three amazing shows including fire dancing, belly dancing and a unique Arabic cultural spinning dance which made us all a little dizzy to watch.
Finally, after an incredible whirlwind day we retired to our hotel for a well deserved rest in preparation for an early wake up call to fly to Amsterdam.
After a long 17 hour flight we finally touched down in Dubai and were hit with a massive heat wave I dont think anyone was prepared for. We arrived at 5.30am and despite being tired we were excited to explore. Off to the Dubai mall we trotted for a tour at the top. The Burj Khalifa, standing at 828m tall, left us all feeling a bit queasy but view itself was breathtaking.
After surveying the city and in spite of the long hall flight, we were ready to shop. We were let loose on the Dubai mall before heading back to change for our desert safari.
We had been given strict instructions not to eat 2 hours before our safari and we soon found out why. With seatbelts fastened (and boy did we need it) we were taken on a thrilling four wheel drive through the desert leaving a few of us feeling a little green around the gills. We had plenty of time for photo opportunities and a chance to try surfing down the sand dunes which is definitely harder than it looks.
When we were well and truly thrilled and worn down we were taken to a makeshift camp in the desert where we were able to ride camels in the heat of the afternoon sun. It was then time for a barbecue dinner as we watched three amazing shows including fire dancing, belly dancing and a unique Arabic cultural spinning dance which made us all a little dizzy to watch.
Finally, after an incredible whirlwind day we retired to our hotel for a well deserved rest in preparation for an early wake up call to fly to Amsterdam.
Reel Workshop
You are invited to attend a workshop on the practical and technical aspects of the Senior Highland Reel,
Reel O'tulloch and Irish reel with Kate Rowe MNZAHND, suitable for dancers aged 13 & over.
See flyer for more information
Conference - Auckland - Measles epidemic
Conference - Auckland
As you will all be aware Auckland is experiencing a measles epidemic. Should anyone attending conference have any concerns, we encourage you to check with your medical professional.
Summer School Tauranga 2020
Summer School Tauranga 2020 - see flyer for further information
Conference Accommodation
Conference Accommodation
If you are trying to book accommodation at the Waipuna Hotel for conference, please do not book on line as the Academy has been given a special rate for our attendees, which is not available on line.
Please phone Reservations on 09 526 3000 and quote NZA0919 and you will be given the special rate
Cushla Piesse - Life membership Balmoral Club
The Christchurch Balmoral Club recently held their 55th AGM. There was an amazing turnout from our Teachers and Judges which included welcoming 4 new members.
It was also a time to celebrate the clubs newest life member –Cushla Piesse MNZM . Cushla has been a dedicated member of the club and it was a privilege to present her life membership in honour of her many years service. Congratulations from all of us.
30 June Closing dates
Reminder 30 June is closing date for:
September exam entries
General business of a minor nature for tabling at Conference
North & South Island Representatives nominations
Adrienne Haberfield New Teacher scholarhips
Cushla Piesse - investiture
The Executive congratulate Cushla on being awarded the New Zealand Order of Merit for her services to Highland dancing at her recent investiture
