It was a wonderful drive, the route taking them through a specially constructed new road. Shangrila’s Bar Al Jissah Hotel was located almost at “land’s end,” and though it was dark right now, they could well imagine the view during the daytime. As it was, both Aafreen and Mantej looked awestruck as they drove through roads that looked like they’d been cut right out of the mountains!
As Sanjit turned into the resort, both of them gasped. Brilliantly lit up, like a jewel rising out of the sea, it was an architectural masterpiece and one that any country would be proud of.
Parking the car, they entered, looking around at the enormous hall, with its enchanting Arabic décor. Trishala enquired, “Would you both like to have drinks before or after dinner?” laughingly adding, “Or both?”
Mantej replied, “I think I speak for all of us. Before.”
Moving inside, they took in the plush and elegant surroundings. The ambience was soothing, yet stirring. The brightly covered tents, serving barbequed meat with its appetizing aroma, were uniquely Arabic. Topping their list of favourites, were the two famous Arabic sandwiches, “Shawarma,” and “Mishkak.” Somewhat similar to the Indian Kathi Kebabs, they were delicious. The “Sheesh Tawook,” a Lebanese delicacy, something like Chicken tikkas, was served with
“Khubz” a variety of Arabic bread.
Also popular with visitors, was “Shisha” (Hookah or the Hubble bubble pipe) that all the guests could try out. Topping the truly Arabic atmosphere was the background music. Particularly, Amr Diab’s “Habibi,” a song that had become a universal hit, spawning numerous clones in its wake...
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