Last week, I had the opportunity to travel to Dubai for work. As part of the itinerary, I took a short trip to Abu Dhabi, which turned out to be a refreshing blend of business and leisure.
The journey itself was a two-hour drive, offering a bit of time to reflect and enjoy the changing scenery. Though the trip was mainly work-focused with a meeting scheduled, I was lucky enough to carve out a few moments to take in the beauty of Abu Dhabi.
One of the highlights was visiting the outdoor park in Abu Dhabi. The city offered a laid-back kind of life compared to Dubai. Public park was the perfect place to unwind after our meeting. We also had a coffee break while soaking in the views of the Corniche. We enjoyed our drinks at the Sofitel Tower, a fantastic spot that added a touch of elegance to our short respite.
I have friends, former classmates in high school who are living in Abu Dhabi. Yet I only got the chance to meet Ning, my former student in Mapua who was working close by Sofitel. We made our way to Mamsha Al Saadiyat, a vibrant beachfront area blending culture, art, and scenic views. It’s a place where the calm beauty of the beach meets the creativity of the surrounding art galleries and cafes. The stroll along the coast was a peaceful contrast to the bustling city vibe of Dubai.
We enjoyed dinner at Antonia, a charming restaurant in Abu Dhabi. The pizza and pasta were delicious, making it a perfect setting for catching up. We talked about everything from accounting and audit to career tips and advice. Seems like my being a teacher never ended as I still find rewarding to share some insights.
The trip was a wonderful mix of productivity and personal connection, and after dinner, we headed back to Dubai, feeling fulfilled and grateful for the chance to reconnect and explore. Until next time Abu Dhabi!
