Walking onto the Dubai metro for the first time I noticed that something was different. Something was missing. It was the familiar smell of the London Underground (or "tube") - a combination of sweat, urine, vomit and decade-old mustiness. It was a smell that I had grown accustomed to and almost fond of during my daily commute into London. This metro was different. It was clean, bright and punctual.

Waiting for my train to arrive I braced myself for the "rush hour squeeze" or throwing yourself onto an overcrowded train - arms, elbows, and fellow passengers' hair in your face. It was perfect for Dubai since they have no idea of personal space. I was pleasantly surprised, however, when the train pulled in. I had heard that Dubai metro cars had "Women & Children Only" sections. Think what you might, but sexist my ass. There is nothing nicer, especially here, than being able to avoid the ogling eyes from the nose-pickers in the male cars. No matter how covered up you might be, the stares are inevitable.

  

I walked effortlessly onto the busy, although uncrowded, "women only" car. Aside from the periodically antsy toddler, the ride was calm and quiet. It was a nice change from the hectic drives and the manic taxi rides.

Walking home across the dirt lots, my feet getting covered in dust and my heals sinking into the sand, I thought about my previous London commute. At least my feet are dry (there is nothing worse than rainy wet shoes) and the inside of my nose isn't black from the London Tube pollution (those who have frequented the Tube know this all to well).

All in all I'd say that riding the metro here is a great and cheap way to get around Dubai. It goes through most of Dubai and they are constantly expanding it. Trains are frequent (every 2-3 minutes) and they stop at most of the popular destinations. My single trip cost me 5 dirhams (=£1 or 1.25 dollars) for a 30 minute journey. They also have travel cards available that you can top up with money when needed (like a London Oyster card). I don't think I will ride it on a daily basis but it's definitely a great option!

Getting a job

I have to count myself either very blessed or very lucky. After enjoying a month of travelling to my two "homes" and enjoying some much needed time away from Dubai, I decided it was time I got off my lazy ass and got a job. The life of leisure was nice but my brain was starting to turn to mush. One Tuesday morning after my husband had left for work I decided to turn into a job-hunting fiend. Unfortunately, my life of leisure and spacey mind got in the way and I found myself running errands instead. I was determined, though, to get at least 5 CVs/resumes out that day.

Once I returned from my shopping spree (getting our Christmas turkey) I noticed a missed call from an unknown number on my phone. Seeing as how I don't have voicemail with my pay-as-you-go phone I decided if it was that important they would call back. Sure enough, five minutes later I had a woman on the line asking me to come interview for a position I had applied for weeks prior.

"When would you like me to come in?" I asked, thinking that tomorrow I could probably pry myself away from the pool for at least an hour.

"I know it's short notice but could you possibly make it in today? We close at 5:30pm so just come when you can."

Looking at the 2:15pm flashing on my kitchen clock I blurted "Sure, I'll be there as soon as I can."

Luckily I had decided to make myself look nice for the store earlier so my makeup was done. I threw on a dress, worked some magic on my hair and rushed out the door to grab a cab.

I sat nervously in the cab trying to Google what exactly this company did and thinking through my answers to some common interview questions. My cab driver, on the other hand, had other plans for me. The older gentleman sat chatting away at me, asking about my day, asking about my family (Was I married? Any kids? Where was I from? Etc.) When I told him I was having a good but nervous day because of my job interview he was very sweet and gave me encouragement. I asked about his family and how often he gets to go home to Pakistan to see them. It was a very nice and calming journey which is a rarity for Dubai taxis.

When we arrived, I told him he had calmed me for my interview and he said, "Insha'Allah (God willing in Arabic) you will get this job!"

"Choukrane! (Thank you)," I said as I tipped him and walked through the doors of the Fairmont Hotel. I do believe the entire event was in God's will, including having him as my taxi driver.

My interview was quick, to the point, and pretty much met all of my requirements for a job: part-time, afternoons, good pay, great holiday time, and nice colleagues. I left feeling invigorated, excited and happy.

The woman phoned that evening and offered me the job to start the following Sunday. I just couldn't believe how quickly it all happened. I guess that's just Dubai.

Location:Dubai