TASTY SNACK

During a stop in Jebel Ali, I came across what I thought was stuffed cockroaches. Not the case, they were dates stuffed with apricots and almonds. They were good none the less.

IRANIAN DINING

During a recent swing through the United Arab Emirates, we had dinner at an Iranian restaurant. On the menu was Baghaliy Polow (Lamb Shanks), Khoresh-te-Gormeh Sabzi (Fresh green herbs stewed with red kidney beans, dried lemon, fresh vegetable and beef, served with saffron rice). Tea with fresh dates and Iranian cookies topped-off a delicious meal.

VISIT TO THE FRENCH SHIP FORBIN

Recently, I visited the "Fregate Forbin." The visit was an all expense paid trip that included round trip transportation via their helicopter, a prime rib dinner and lots of espresso and Perrier.