Day 3 - The Gold Souk

In Search of Treasure

The Gold Souk

Day 3

There is a narrow, maze of Souks (similar

to the Rambles) that wends their way like a warren through the old city of Dubai.

Venturing out in yet another taxi we crisscrossed the canal in search of the Souks that we heard were lined with gold. As we entered the narrow, traffic, congested lane. We felt we really were falling into Aladdin's cave, doors opened magically and we were beckoned. There we were immersed in treasure -gold upon gold - - diamonds of all shades, rings, bangles, bracelets, earrings, key rings, pendants, chains, ornaments - jewels that sparkled.

And then the haggling began.

We give you first customer price

This is absolutely best price for you

And yes, we did haggle

and succumbed.

The first temptation:

The pale green pendant that just happens to match earrings that I have.

Price - special price - best price - how much would you like to pay - sorry, what about ........... Bargaining .......... Just for you, first customer price of the morning! And afterwards, a shake of the hand And an offer of a cold drink which is politely accepted, and needed given the out door

The Second Temptation

Little side alley bends to the left, catching our eye.

Beautifully textured scarves, wraps, material.

And there we meet Ali greeting us with cashmere in his arms.

He leads us into his shop with the temptation of cashmere.

Which colours would you like - feel the softness of the fabric -

Easy to pack

Am going to England

Good present.

Emma and Saskia are in Canberra, cold winters

And then we haggle:

Finally agreement, but I have forgotten, little cash in wallet.

A card?

No problem, come with me

And once again we find ourselves in the company of a very pleasant much younger stranger, Ali being lead through the labyrinth and maze of Dubai. Every now and then he turns to ensure Mary Ann follows. We enter three stores to no avail, their credit machines are yet to start for the day. and he leads on, signalling for us to follow, reassuring us. We enter -- coolness - more expensive - and tour. Down a small corridor at the back and there we find an automatic teller. Ali is paid, he leaves us a friend inviting us to return to his shop for a cold drink -coffee - tea.

We will be welcome at any time.

Temptation 3

The fall of Mary Ann

At the end of the walkway we find a small jewellers whose window catches our eye, and once again the door opens intuitively and we are greeted, once again with warmth ( salesmanship )

We are looking for something small for our daughters.

Which transforms to trays being brought from cabinets.

For this transaction I for some reason become the mannequin and have my wrist adorned with gold bracelets.

Finally, one is selected and after protracted negotiation, closure is imminent - and then a second, interwoven white with gold, gold emerges onto the counter and slips gingerly onto Mary Ann's wrist, fitting beautifully.

And really what choice remains but to buy them both.

I on the other hand have shown great restraint and purchased only a small pair of earrings for Emma.

After farewells and offers of more cold water we return to the blazing heat, retreat to another taxi and head for the hotel - to wait for the Safari pick up at 4.30 and to recover from yet another 3.30am start.