Living the life

Living the life
The US tour begins

Thursday, March 26, 2009

The Dryness Begins from Tomorrow




I’m not sure what the ancient Muslim dudes had against fun, but they sure prefer to celebrate in ways different from us modern “infidels.” The Prophet’s (PBUH) birthday was the other day (the actual date is uncertain uncertain because it is keyed to the sighting of the moon) and we were headed to one of our happy hour spots to watch the sunset with Loriann and Justin, some American friends.

Now, knowing the way things work around here, I thought I’d better phone the bar to see if they would be open and serving alcohol. Selling the devil’s brew is not allowed on Muslim holidays--not in the government- owned liquor stores nor in the bars and restaurants in the hotels. I’m not sure why it really matters, since Muslim’s are not supposed to buy the stuff anyway, but I guess they want to celebrate by punishing us. Fine. It’s their country.

So, I called up the Royal Mirage (one of the most beautiful hotels I have ever seen) and asked to speak to someone in Food & Beverage. I was transferred to a very nice Filipina. I asked if the Rooftop Bar would be serving alcoholic drinks, due to the holiday(?). Lucky for me and quite unusual for here, she understood my question precisely and replied, “Yes Madam, the dryness begins from tomorrow.” Well, Whew.

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