Arrival, After Midnight

By the time we left Dubai International Airport, it was 1:00 a.m.

Our driver was already waiting. With luggage in hand, we were quickly ushered into the van, the city unfolding almost immediately. Skyscrapers everywhere…taller, closer, brighter than expected. I could tell right away: this place would be different.

We passed the Museum of the Future, glowing against the night. Soon, I thought. Very soon. ☺️

Then the hotel.

Arriving at the JW Marriott Marquis Dubai, one of the tallest hotels in the world…felt surreal, especially at that hour. The bellman met us at the car, handled the bags, and walked us straight to reception. Check-in was seamless, which at that late hour meant more than ever.

All I wanted was a hot shower and a warm bed.

Room keys to the 55th floor.

Wow.

Higher than I imagined, and excitement outweighed the fatigue. The room was charming. The bathroom lovely. The shower, exactly what I needed. Sleep came easily, the only kind of sleep that follows a long travel and fully loaded couple of days.

Rest now.

Morning will come quickly.

Our first stop is almost here.