Terry Traveler – Desert Journey

I had trouble believing at first, but if anyone would wander around in the desert wearing a parka it’d be Terry. That still doesn’t mean I’m paying the receipts on this one. – Editor

The other day I, Terry Traveler, your loyal explorer of places unknown, found myself in a captivating place of wonder.

It had been a long journey through desert terrain leading me towards a gigantic monolith against a blue horizon.
 
The last thing I remember was seeing a camel, thinking I should call out for help, and a soft grainy pillow of sorts that I fell upon.

I awoke surrounded by white- everything from the paisley wallpaper to the couch, to the statues upon tabletops. It seemed such a contrast to my faded orange parka, carelessly thrown to the corner of the room. I had little time to register this place before two curious creatures entered. Their dress was exceptionally formal, bright reds and greens, with gold accents, bells, and tinkling trinkets lining the hems.

I’m not quite sure what they were saying, you see I speak several languages but apparently not that one. I made out a few words, something about shoestrings, antenna, and Jimmy Carter so I responded as such. The two exchanged a glance, and began showering me with gifts as I assume is the custom of this unknown land. I received 2 mini bottles of Spa Quality Shampoo/Conditioner In One, 3 tiny bars of Spa Quality sandalwood soap, my very own nail file, a bottle of water, a small can of macadamia nuts, 4 ear swabs, and 2 towels. I thanked them profusely as they left me, once again, alone in this strange room.

Suddenly, a magical screen began to rise out of yet another white piece of furniture. There was a slight click and hum as a picture began to solidify against the screen. I sat for hours listening to a pleasant voice talk about shoestrings, antenna, and Jimmy Carter while images of luxury pools, restaurants, and nightlife crossed the screen. I must have fallen asleep as I awoke with a start at the reappearance of the two sheet covered figures, this time accompanied by a man in a fancy grey suit. I must have been delirious as I couldn’t have heard the phrases “Oprah’s people need the room”, and “check out was at 11.” I collected my gifts, my orange parka, and exited the white room, prepared for what may lie beyond.

I was lead through an endless hallway to a golden elevator. The man in the grey suit listened with amazement as I recanted my long journey in the desert, the loss of my wallet to a camel, and my desperate need to know where I was. He seemed generally interested, taking me forcefully by the arm, and leading me to a large revolving door. I was thrown into a crowded street with more well wishes and talks of shoestrings.

I looked around, trying to get my barring when I saw a sign reading The Address, Dubai, a luxury hotel. At that moment it all made sense to me, and I was struck by a wave of disappointment. I had spent the entire night in a luxury hotel and I missed out on my one chance in ten years to watch HBO and finally see the ending of the Sopranos.

This is your ever loyal and always observant explorer Terry Traveler saying, no spoilers, please!

Terry Traveller
Email: terry@discoveradel.com
Facebook: DiscoverAdel.TerryTraveller