July 12, 2010

Snow in Arabian Country

Whenever I choose a destination for holiday, one of the most important aspect that I look for is its public transportation. So, I was more than delighted to know that the Dubai Metro had already started their operation.

it was officially inaugurated at 9:09:09 PM on September 9, 2009

During my visit, only a few stations were opened to the public. Covering 70kms of lines, it will be the longest automated metro network once all of them are ready.



The metro coaches are like train systems, where they have classes. The rich may prefer to ride in the Golden Class which provides more spacious leather seats, luxurious interior fittings and panoramic view across the front window of the train. But of course they'll pay more.

If you're comfortable with the crowd, or just don't have that extra money, Silver Class is for you then. And the good thing is, they have special coach dedicated to women and children, just like what our KTMB is doing for the commuter users.
 


The metro stations combine both heritage and modern designs. They have been modelled on the shape of seashell, inspired from the diving and pearl-fishing heritage of the UAE.

Mall of the Emirates Metro station

So, we've arrived at Mall of the Emirates.

Anyway, have you heard of snow in Arabian countries? Impossible right? How can snow falls in desert countries with a hot arid climate. I know it sounds crazy but really, not only can you experience snow, you can ski or snowboard in Dubai. How cool is that!
 
Presenting....  Ski Dubai!
 

an indoor ski dome, with 5 runs that vary in steepness, height and difficulty...


complete with a chairlift to carry skiers and snowboarders up the mountain. 



If you have never skied or snowboarded before you cannot purchase a ski pass without having taken enough lessons to meet minimum requirements to take the chairlift on your own, make turns and be able to stop.

So, I didn't get the chance to ski as the places for discovery and beginners lesson were limited and was already full that day. T_T

Thank God there's an adjacent snow park for us to camwhore and have fun!





I can’t imagine what it would take to create and maintain a 6,000 ton snow base and an indoor temperature of -1°C to -2°C when the temperature outside is at scorching hot 40°C.
 
the slope from outside the mall

A proof of what money can buy eh?

2 comments:

Ernie Khairina said...

haah, me too mesti put public transportation into my note dulu before pegi mana2..best nya u, banyak jalan =)

rara said...

kan? senang nak berjalan nanti.. alaa semua tu travel dah basi.. i je baru terhegeh-hegeh nak update.. hehe