#of course your girl only fly with emirates | Explore Tumblr Posts and Blogs

errythinisblue · 2 years

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Girl your smuts are so good , so can you do one where mason is fucking you deep where you can feel him in your stomach and he teases you about that like "can you feel me in your stomach"

Hi lovely anon! You’re so nice thank you!🤍 that request was so HOT honestly! Hope you’ll like what I made out of it!!!

“Gold suits you better.”

Mason Mount x Y/N

Summary: You and some of the girls fly to Abu Dhabi to watch the Club World Cup final and to surprise your men, that end up winning. Mason picks up an injury though, but he’s set to show you he’s completely fine with you by his side.

Warnings: SMUT.

Notes: that’s kind of a part two to this.

After the heated video call you shared barely two nights ago, you were currently breathing Abu Dhabi’s warm air. Pictures from that night were still flashing before your eyes, but those flashes weren’t the main reason for you to be there.

The moment you and Sophia watched your boyfriends leave the training centre on that bus, you had already planned everything. The two of you were determined to join the guys in Abu Dhabi for the final, imagining they would need your full support since they really wanted to win this Club World Cup; and after you watched the semifinal with the other girls, you asked them if they wanted to join you on your journey too, resulting in you all booking a flight to the Emirates.

Of course you didn’t tell any of the boys about your intentions, you did quite the contrary as you all feigned being sad for not being able to be there with them while you called them on the phone. The only one who knew you were about to flight there was Jaz, so Lewis ad Debbie too of course. You kept in touch with her, to tell her all about the time of your flight and your hotel accommodations, so she could make sure to keep Mason entertained when he wasn’t training while you were sneaking into your hotel room without being seen by him.

You checked in your hotel on Friday night, before you and the girls all headed straight to bed for a good night rest, as you didn’t want to be jet lagged for the final you now couldn’t wait for. Luckily for you Saturday arrived in an instant, and the day flew by as you all enjoyed a day at the hotel spa, treating yourselves to some massages and facials to relax, and eating the most exotic foods before the match would start in the night.

But night time had to come sooner or later and you were now making your way to the stadium, where you and the girls would meet Jaz and the rest of Mason’s family that flew there. Your nerves were on edge as you knew how important this final was to your boyfriend, and how much he wanted to win it. But as soon as you saw his family’s faces you immediately relaxed, especially once Lewis hugged you so tight you swore he crushed your ribs.

“Hey! It’s so nice to finally see you here!” Jaz greeted you as she hugged you once Lewis let go of you, “Mason will be so happy to see you! I can’t wait for him to see you now!”

“Yeah Y/N! I’m so glad you decided to come!” Debbie said as she took you in her arms, like the loving mother she was she always tried her hardest to make you feel part of the family.

“I’m so happy to be here with you all, and I’m so excited and nervous at the same time for this match!” you told them as you were playing with the hem of your blue t-shirt that had the number 19 in its back.

“Oh girl don’t!” Sophia chimed in, “You know we’re the best c’mon!!!” she told you as she smiled, standing right next to you before she snapped a selfie of the two of you.

“You’re probably right aren’t you??” you smiled as you looked at her phone while she took that picture.

“As always duh!” she rolled her eyes, as she was barely able to contain her excitement too when there was less than half an hour left before the game would start.

“Hey Y/N/N come here! I wanna send a selfie to Mason before the match!” Lewis shouted in your direction, as he stood on the other side of Jaz, her being in the middle of you two.

Once he took the selfie he immediately sent it to Mason, whose smile couldn’t really be bigger once he saw the picture you were posing in with his family. He was so happy you were there to surprise and support him, now he really couldn’t wait to be on that pitch. Especially since he saw you wearing his name on your back; in that selfie you were standing right next to Jaz, back turned to Lewis, who was snapping the picture, with your thumbs pointing at his name behind your back as you smiled at the camera over your shoulder. It was in that moment that he had to walk down that tunnel, it was in that moment that he knew he had to give his all now, to make you proud.

But that moment only lasted for 30 minutes, 31 to be precise.

You watched him leaving the pitch. Heartbreak was making it hard for you to breathe and you really couldn’t imagine what was going on in his mind. Your mouth was covered by your hands as you watched with big eyes his back with that number 19 on it disappear down the tunnel.

“Sophia I have to go there.” you said as you subconsciously grabbed her by her arm.

“Y/N you can’t,” she took her hands in yours, “we can’t go there until the match is over…”

“But what if he needs me??” you frowned at her, feeling Debbie caressing your shoulders now.

“I’m sure he’ll let you know that dear, keep your phone close, he might try to call you…” she said to you, giving you a sympathetic smile.

“How can you be so calm right now?” you asked her as she was making you feel calmer too.

“Oh girl, I’m used to this by now…” she laughed, holding you close until the final whistle blew.

After 120 minutes of absolute sufferance, it was over. Chelsea had won the final. Chelsea was on top of the world. The guys were World Champions! And you couldn’t stop jumping on the stands, holding Sophia at your side from the moment Kai scored that penalty. You could even catch a glimpse of Mason coming out of the tunnel on crutches, wearing what looked like an Aircast ankle brace on his right ankle; and you immediately got angry at him for jumping around with the boys when he really shouldn’t. You were worried, but could you blame him? They won the Club World Cup final, and they were absolutely over the moon.

You could read it in his eyes as he limped his way to where you, the girls and his family were standing, the hunger for the win had been satisfied for now, and that left its place to an immense feeling of happiness. Happiness that you too were feeling as you felt like your heart was about to explode as you saw him open his arms as he walked the last two steps to you.

“I was so worried Mase…” you told him as soon as you wrapped your arms around his neck, “But I’m so happy you won, you’re the best!”

“I’m worried too, I still don’t know what’s wrong with my ankle.” he murmured, “But having you here has really made up for it…”

“I love you Mr. World Champion…” you told him as you caressed his medal down his chest.

“I love you more baby!” he laughed before leaving a kiss on your lips.

When you were done with celebrations and pictures you made your way to the hotel to grab your things, with Mason walking on crutches next to you as he insisted to go with you.

“You really should have waited for me at the airport…” you scolded him, as you didn’t want him to hurt himself any more.

“I just wanted to be alone with you for a little bit…” he whispered, as he sat on the bed, taking you down to straddle him as he laid his back on the silky sheets, “Plus we still have some time before the flight…”

“Mase don’t even try and start things.” you warned him as you felt him get hard under you.

“Baby…” he whined as he raised his hips to create some friction between your bodies, “I’m perfectly functioning, well except from my ankle but we don’t really need that to…”

“We shouldn’t…” you warned him, slowly rolling your hips down on him. You were clearly unable to resist him; memories from a certain video call came back stronger now as your bodies were separated only by the fabric of your clothes.

“You won’t hurt me if that’s what you’re afraid of…” he smirked, “But I can’t promise I won’t hurt you…”

“Is that so?” you asked as you sat up straight.

“Babe, you should know by now that seeing you in my shirt does things to me.” he groaned.

“Well why don’t I take it off then?” you bit your lip, “Maybe it could make things easier for you…”

“Do it.” his voice low as he raised his hand to remove your lower lip from between your teeth with his thumb, “Take that shirt off…I’m going crazy since I saw that picture before the match…”

“As you wish…” you whispered before removing the Chelsea shirt from your torso, “…my world Champion…”

“God you’re so beautiful baby…” he growled, twitching under you at the sight of your blue bra, the one he knew you always wore to his matches, “Can you lay down on the bed for me?”

“Mason…” you still weren’t sure about this as you were still worried about him, “I don’t want you to-”

“Shhh…” he put a finger on your lips as he slowly stood from the bed, hovering over you as he tried not to hurt his ankle, “Let me do this…” he removed the medal from his neck and left it on the bed, near your head, before leaning down to properly kiss you.

You moaned into the kiss, his lips felt so soft and warm against your own that they set your body on fire. His tongue was battling for dominance with your own, as the kiss grew hungrier and needier by the second while he rolled his hips into yours making you whimper.

“Mase…” you whined as you turned your head to the side, leaving him to press open mouthed kisses down your neck, “Are you sure you’re okay?”

“Never been better babygirl…” he said with his lips on your skin, “Well I could be better…as soon as I’m inside of you…”

“Don’t keep me waiting then…” you whimpered as you could feel yourself grow wet under his lingering touches.

“Patience baby…” he smirked, looking at you through half opened eyes as he kissed his way down your torso, in between your breasts and around your belly button, until he reached the button of the skinny jeans you were wearing, “I wanna worship you, like my most precious trophy…” he said as he undid the button before he could slip your jeans down your legs, leaving you in your blue lingerie set.

“Like what you see?...” it was your turn now to smirk as you watched him discard his clothes around the room.

“You have no idea…” he told you as he lowered his face to your core, just moving your thong to the side before speaking again with his lips barely touching you, teasing you, “…I wanna fuck you with this set on…”

“Fuck!” you rolled your head back into the pillow as he dived straight into your pussy, licking you without any trace of mercy, as his mind was set on making you cum as fast as he could, since the both of you didn’t have much time.

“You like that babygirl don’t you?” the vibrations of his words set your mind ablaze, your mind was starting to get foggy as you watched down at him while he held eye contact as he was still working on making you cum with his tongue.

“Mason please…I’m so close…” you whimpered as you felt like you were about to burst, “Oh fuck!” you groaned as you put your hands in his hair, while you arched your spine from the pleasure.

He was quick in putting his hands on the lower part of your back, holding you in place as he started sucking on your clit forcefully, the need to be rough starting to surface as he knew how much you got off on him being rough with you. His eyes never left your face as his lips and tongue made quick work of making you reach the high you were waiting for since your video call, his hands held you tight against his face as he heard your louder moans while you squirmed on the bed as you came, unable to keep your body still under his assault.

“Oh my God, Mase…” you moaned once you were able to form a sentence after the crushing high he provided you, as you felt his dick at your entrance while his face hovered over yours.

“I’m no God babygirl…” he growled while he slipped inside you, “But fuck I’d like to make you sing my name like a prayer…”

“Fuck!” you had still to recover from the intensity of your orgasm as Mason entered you with an excruciatingly slow thrust, “Mason…”

“Say it again…” he moaned upon hearing his name coming out of those lips of yours, the thrusts he was giving you slow and deep, sensual even.

“Mason…please I need you to go faster!” you whimpered as you felt like you were going crazy at the feeling of his dick pushing so slowly into you, making you feel every single inch of him, “Fuck I can feel you so deep!”

“You’re so fucking tight baby,” he told you as he now rested his right hand on your lower stomach, “Can you feel me in your stomach babygirl?? Fuck I can feel my cock moving inside of you with my hand!”

“Oh God go faster please…” you whimpered, “I beg you…” you smirked up at him, knowing he wanted you to beg for him to give you what you wanted, like he was your only God.

“You want me to go faster?” he asked you huskily, full blown pupils like big black moons fixed in your own eyes as he grabbed his medal from the bed, leaning his weight on his left hand as he used his right one to run the cold gold from your pubic bone, to your hip bones, up between your breasts and throat; he put it on your lips for you to kiss it, as he lowered his face to yours as he watched you kiss the medal before he removed it from your mouth to peck your lips once, twice, before he actually kissed you with a bruising force. As he did so you heard him hiss, you were sure his ankle was acting up so you stopped him.

“Let me take over Mase…” you told him as you rested your palms flat on his chest, “Lay down…”

“You don’t need to.. I’m okay baby…” he insisted, before you pushed him back with your hands.

“What if I wanna ride you?” you licked your lips, watching as his eyes followed the movement of your tongue.

“I’m not gonna stop you then…” he smirked as he removed himself from inside of you, and rolled on the bed, laying on his back as he adjusted his head on the fluffy pillows.

“I’m sure you won’t…” you said as you were now straddling him after you slid your thong down your legs, looking at his face as you lowered yourself down on his cock, “Fuck Mason…”

“Oh babygirl…” he moaned out loud as he put his hands on your hips to guide your movements, “Bet you like feeling me even deeper now…”

“You feel amazing…” you whimpered as you leaned your hands on his taut stomach, “I’ll never get enough of you…”

“Look at you, taking me so good…” he smirked, praising you, “I’ll never get enough of you either babygirl…” he told you as he put his golden medal around your neck, “Give me your hand now.” he instructed and you immediately complied, putting your right hand in his left one, before he put it on your pussy “I want you to touch yourself, just like you did on Wednesday…but with my cock deep inside of you.”

“Should I?” you defied him.

“Do it.” he growled, raising his hips into yours as a warning.

It was like touching light wires. Your fingers’ motions against your sensitive nub made your body move with a mind of its own.

“Mason…oh fuck I’m close again…” you closed your eyes as the feelings were too much for you to handle them.

“I can feel it my love, fuck I can feel it…you feel so good!” he growled as he couldn’t help but look down to where your hand was making you climax around him, “Keep your eyes open, don’t close them now…let me see your eyes as you fall apart on my dick.”

“I-I can’t it’s too much!” you whined as your hips were riding him faster and faster, pushing you both closer to the edge.

“I f-fucking told you to keep your eyes open.” he groaned with his jaw set as he pulled you down to him by his medal, kissing you forcefully as he pushed your hips down on him with his other hand.

The moment you felt him push you down on his dick you opened your eyes to look at him, and it was like time had stopped. His messy hair all over the pillow, his parted lips and sweaty face, the vein that was showing on his temple, all these things made you spiral towards your second orgasm of the night. You came around his dick, hard as your eyes rolled in the back of your head.

“Fuck yes!” he moaned as he watched you fall into pieces above him, “Let me see those pretty eyes roll back, fuck! You’re such a good girl for me! I wanna fill you up so bad!”

“Do it Mason…” you whimpered, “Oh my G-God please do it…”

“Oh fuck! My love…fuck I love you so much!” he growled as he came deep inside of you, “Ohhh fuck…”

As you slowly removed yourself from his lap to lay down beside him, you sighed happily, clearly spent but absolutely glad to be back with your man.

“I’m so happy you came…” he whispered as he was catching his breath, “In more than just a way…”

“I’m happy to be here with you…” you smirked as you traced your fingers on his chest, “I’m happy I get to call you mine, World Champion.”

“About that…” he started as he turned his head to look at you, “I think this medal suits you way better than yellow…” he smirked as he caressed the gold treasure that laid in between your breasts, before he took you in his arms to hold you tight for a minute, before you’d have to leave the hotel room.

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finnthatcher89 · 4 years

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the first I love yous || flaurel

DISCORD THREAD FEATURING: Finn & @oflaurelthatcherisms

MENTIONS: -

WHEN: 2010

DESCRIPTION: Laurel and Finn tell each other they love each other for the first time.

TRIGGER WARNINGS: I don’t think any?

laurel

At the beginning of the year, when she first met him in Las Vegas and they accidentally got married, she truly didn't think that they were going to last the whole year. She half expected them to find out how incredibly incompatible they are, argue a lot, and just despise each other. Well... Six months later... Them moving to Denver to live together... Him working at the fire station and her leaving Emirates to work for Frontier at the airport... And things were a lot better than she expected. Over the past six months, she was beginning to realize that he was becoming her best friend. And that her heart does little gymnastics every time she sees him... And that she could look at his smile for days and weeks and months and years... And that every time he held her in his arms, she never wanted to be anywhere else. But god, what does this mean? Both having the same day off, Laurel woke up early and decided to make his favourite breakfast. Humming softly to some Turkish music, all she could think about was seeing the look on his face and she couldn't stop smiling. Then again, she has been smiling a lot more thanks to him. She likes it, though. A lot.

Finn

What was a supposed to be a fun, exciting weekend at a work friend's Bachelor party in Vegas turned into a weekend that would change the rest of his life. He was so young - 21 and just really starting his career. He had barely found himself when he found Laurel. Nearly every bone in his body had told him just to get a quick annulment, but Finn wasn't a quitter and Laurel...well there was something about her that he wanted to get to know. The next thing he knew he was living in Denver with a mere stranger, nearly all the way across the country from his hometown in Pennsylvania. He had always loved adventures, and this adventure was one of the craziest he'd ever taken. Finn was woken up by the light that peaked through the shades of their modest home. He rolled over, half expecting Laurel to be laying next to him but when he smelled the food cooking in the kitchen he knew what she was doing. He walked into the kitchen with only his boxers on and smiled when he saw his wife at the stove. He walked up to her and put his arms around her waist, kissing her shoulder and cheek quickly. "Morning." he said, with a smile. He loved the days off they had together. They were the days that they got to know each other the best. No pressure to be places or doing things. They just spent time together.

laurel

At twenty, Laurel has already done and seen so many crazy and exciting. Spending her childhood in Turkey before moving to America at ten years old, becoming a flight attendant right after high school and moving to a completely different country, going to many different countries due to work, one could say that her whole life has been an adventure. But meeting Finn... That has truly been the biggest adventure so far. Or at least, the one she has enjoyed the most. Sure, they were both technically kids still, in a sense. But by god, she wouldn't have traded this for anything. Feeling his arms wrapped around her, the girl smiled brightly and instantly melted against him. She just felt so safe and comfortable when she was in his arms, secured and at peace. The last person... Well, she could never be certain. But with Finn? There were never any doubts. Even something as simple as wearing one of his old shirts (like she was now and had began doing over the past month) filled her with happiness. "Morning," she mused, kissing his jaw. "Thought I'd surprise you with your favourite. Sleep well?"

Finn

Finn didn't anyone else he'd rather take a leap of faith with like this. He was glad he did though, because she had completely swept him off his feet. He felt like he was flying every time he was around her. He knew other people saw them as just young, idiot kids but Finn was determined to give their relationship a try. And fuck, he was so happy he did. Even in a city he wasn't familiar with, he felt at home with Laurel. She was safe and she always took great care of him. The man rested his chin on his wife's neck, strong arm still wrapped around her waist. He took a deep breathe in through his nostrils and looked down at the stove. "Bacon, egg and cheese on a bagel?" he beamed. Fuck, yes. "You already know me so well. Thank you." he said, giving her more tiny pecks on her cheek and neck. "I slept very well. You?" he said, finally removing his arms from around her waist to put some coffee on.

laurel

After Francisco, marriage never really felt like an option. Of course, it was a nice thought. But to love someone again after that... For three years, it never felt like a possibility. So to end up meeting Finn on New Years Eve in Las Vegas and to have a Vegas wedding with the then stranger when in two days, she was suppose to return home to Dubai just to end up leaving as soon as possible to work with another airline in a different city back in the US? It sounded crazy. But god, it felt so right. Despite the initial awkwardness at first, Finn has gone from being a stranger to her best friend. She was now able to call him her husband without an awkward pause at first, saying it so proudly and happily. To go from where they originally were at to now, six months later, bet at home with each other... It was incredible. Beautiful, even. His excitement brought a giggle to her lips. "Only the best for you. And you're welcome, balım." She twisted her body slightly to kiss his cheek, only beaming more at his own kisses. The moment he let go of her to work on the coffee, she instantly wished for his embrace again. "Pretty good. I think knowing that I have the next couple of days off helped," she joked slightly. "And having a cuddle buddy, obviously. Most definitely a bonus."

Finn

When Finn had woken up next to Laurel on New Years days around a decade ago, he thought she was a blacked out hookup. Something he wasn’t super accustomed to doing, but he did have a little bit of a naughty side that sometimes came out when he drank. Especially at 21. Newly of legal age to drink, out of town for a buddy’s bachelor party. Something wild was bound to happen; he just never expected that this would be the result. Something he also didn’t expect to happen was learning Turkish...or at least some Turkish phrases. He thought it important to learn at least a little bit of his wife’s native language. That’s what good partners did right? “You spoil me.” He cooed. He dumped coffee ground sloppily into the coffee maker and turned it on. “God, I love that feeling. Sleeping knowing you don’t have to get up at a certain time in the morning.” He sighed deeply. “It’s always a bonus falling asleep and waking up next to you.” He flirted, shamelessly. It was weird...getting to know each other but already being married. It felt like he was living in a cheesy Hallmark movie. He smiled, walking back over to her while their coffee was brewing to lean onto the counter next to the stove to watch her cook. Yeah, he could stare at her all day.

laurel

Now, if there was something Laurel was not a stranger to, it was having a lover for the night. Sometimes a stranger from a club or bar, sometimes a coworker, sometimes a friend she'd made in her new home; The girl certainly enjoyed having another's company. So waking up and realizing her New Years 'hookup' was now her husband... That'd been new. But now that they were here, she was glad and felt lucky that it happened. And the fact that Finn was so keen on learning some Turkish for her... That had been one of the things that caused her to fall for him. She remembered that she started to cry when she heard him make his attempts, feeling so happy and proud of him. "You deserve to be spoiled," she mused. "It truly is something else. I mean, I love my job entirely. But getting to have those sleeps... How can I not love them?" Her cheeks turned red. She grew more and more bashful lately with his flirting, absolutely enjoying them. "Right back at you, Mr. Thatcher," she flirted back, winking at her husband. Honestly, anyone could see that he was an incredibly handsome man. Tall, clear blue eyes, incredible body, a face chiseled by the gods; He was basically a living statue. But once you got to his personality and learned more about him, how that he was a kind soul who would do anything to help anyone and was practically a huge teddy bear. How his laughter could fill up any room and fill one up with warmth and serenity. How his hugs were just so comforting, never wanting to leave them. How his voice is just so incredible and she could listen to him speak about anything and everything for hours on end. Laurel was getting close to finishing their food, also making some hashbrowns to go along. She glanced up for a moment, stopping once realizing he was staring. "What?" Laurel asked, laughing softly with a warm smile and a quirk of her brow.June 26, 2020

Finn

Finn smiled, and bit down on his lip to keep himself from smiling too wide. Finn had been so used to being the one doing the spoiling, it was nice to have a change of pace for once. That's one of the many things he loved about Laurel. He loved the way she held herself, how her dark hair fell over her shoulders, the way she walked. She was breathtaking. He could've ended up next to anyone that New Year's morning, but he considered himself lucky that he woke up next to her - married to her. "I love working too, but it is nice to wake up whenever you want instead of to the annoying ringing of an alarm." he told her. He was a firefighter; a protector and hero. He loved helping people and saving lives. He didn't mind going into work, he actually looked forward to going into work when he was single. But now he missed Laurel every day he went into work, calling her when they each got a break and sending her texts on his down time. Finn watched the woman make their food for a few moments in silence. Holy...she was a sexy as fuck making him breakfast like that. Finn crossed his arms over chest and looked down at his feet, shuffling them a little when she called him out for staring. "Nothing..." he said, grinning like a fucking idiot. "You're just so god damned gorgeous." he admitted. "And I'm really fucking lucky to have someone like you to wake up to every day." he added. Wow. that was cornier than he expected, but it was exactly how he felt.

laurel

God, she loves spoiling him so much. Just giving him so much care and attention and love-... Love? Why did that make her heart flutter so much? Why did that give her both a sense of an entire zoo in her stomach but also a sense of clarity and peace? Why does that word feel so right? Lately, especially when concerning him, there was just something about that word that made her want to pause, to try and cool down her beating heart and the wide smile that dared to grow. "You can say that again. Buuuut I also can't help but feel bad for the station on your days off. They're missing their best firefighter." Yes, she absolutely was biased. No, she felt no shame. She was so proud of him and admired his care for other people- but she also couldn't help but to worry as well. Especially when it came to extremely big cases. That most certainly made parts of her job hard: not being home and knowing if he's okay or not while she's up in the air for a couple of hours heading from one place to another. Every time they were able to finally call or text each other just filled her up with a sense of relief, reminding her that he was okay and safe. And that soon, they were going to be back in each other's arms again. Watching him become awkward was just so adorable. How he shuffled his feet and grinned. Giggling at his words, she placed their food on their plates before turning off the stove. However, she couldn't help herself. She moved over to stand before him, loosely wrapping her arms around his neck as she smiled up at him. "And you are just so god damned handsome," she mused, kissing the tip of his nose. She knew that she had hearts in her eyes as she gazed upon him. But god, how could she not? She just loves him so much and- oh my god, I love him. The realization shocked her. How could she not realize it? The signs have been there for so long... Holy fuck. Holy fuck. Holy fuck, she... she... Oh. "I love you." The words were quiet. Yet she beamed. "I love you, Finn."

Finn

"Stop gassing me up, or else my ego will get too big." he chuckled, although the compliment made him a little giddy. Laurel really was his number one fan. That was what wives were supposed to do though right? Either way, he loved the encouragement he got from her. Knowing that someone was on his side no matter what he did, was comforting. He felt so fucking safe. He liked the idea of having a life long companion on Laurel. He'd always knew he wanted to get married but he never expected it to happen like this. Since they got married, he pictured them growing older together so many times. Having kids and being domestic as fuck together. Whenever Finn thought about the future, Laurel was right by his side the whole time. Finn had been in love once before after he graduated high school and started his life in the real world. It was a feeling he hadn't felt in a while. Well, up until recently at least; until he met Laurel. Finn was definitely a romantic. He loved taking Laurel out and doing little romantic gestures for her. He believed that even a bouquet of flowers could say a thousand different words. He recalled the time he surprised her with a homemade Turkish dinner when she got home from work one night a few months ago. Nothing too fancy, and Laurel probably could have made it better herself. But he wanted to do something special for her to show her that he cared about their relationship, even though it wasn't necessarily ordinary. He wrapped his arms around her waist and pulled her in tightly as she kissed his nose. Their eyes met with that three word phrase left her lips. He a huge smile slowly grew on his face. "I love you too." The words came really naturally to him because he had been feeling that way for a while now, he just wasn't ready to admit that to himself. But hearing Laurel say it out loud really smacked some sense into him. Why didn't see it before? He leaned down and gave her a gentle, yet passionate kiss.

laurel

"Never- I like inflating your ego," she laughed. She was always ready to cheer him on, to be by his side for anything and everything. She loved it so much, loved seeing how her compliments had their effect on him. How they're able to know exactly what to say to make the other feel better. It was amazing, really. It was something she never expected. But despite being mere strangers not too long ago, Finn truly knew her better than anyone else. Well, okay. There were some things she needed to talk to him about still. Some things involving herself and her past that she's not proud about, but she knows she wants to tell him about. To open up and let him in to see, to witness. To fully know everything about her. And that was in and of itself really fucking scary. She never wanted to share her secrets with anyone so much before. So wanting to share them with her husband... it was something else. The man has become her home. Her future. She has dreamed about the future so many times lately and always, without fail, she saw him there by her side. She saw them growing old, saw them becoming parents, becoming grandparents. Sharing a home together and loving each other unconditionally for forever. It was such a beautiful dream. And she was certain that he wanted that, too. He was trying so hard and was such a romantic, her heart was constantly bursting with happiness. That night he cooked that homemade Turkish dinner is truly one of her favourite memories of them. She'd been so happy and so surprised, she'd cried. He wanted to connect with her and her culture so much, it made her so happy. It made her feel... loved. God, is this what it means to be loved? If so, she's lucky that it's with Finn. Her smile only grew as he said those words back, eyes beginning to sprinkle with happy tears. Laughing joyfully, she held him close as they kissed. One hand sneak it's way into his hair and played with his locks, the girl deepening the kiss. "I love you so much, oh my god."

Finn

He shook his head. No one had ever made him feel as good looking, proud, happy, confident about himself like Laurel had. She knew all the right things to say to make him giddy. He honestly didn't think any other man could be as happy as he was right now. He had really struck gold and genuinely believed that Laurel was the greatest woman in the entire world. How had be gotten that lucky. "Okay then. I'll take it." he said, giving in. Because yeah, why wouldn't he let someone as amazing as Laurel compliment the hell out of him. Laurel was so easy to open up to; he had told her everything about how he best friend had died a few years prior and how hard that was for him to deal with. Laurel was always there for him whenever he felt down about it; always knowing the right thing to say. So this was what finding your person felt like. This was he read in all the books and watched in all the movies. The perfect home, the picket fence, the perfect woman by his side maybe even a child someday. He thought about growing old together with her nearly everyday, but right now he wanted to focus in on this moment. The way her warm body felt pressed up against him, how he could feel her soft, dark hair on his skin. Her scent was so alluring and so distinct; he knew he'd be able to sense her presence by her smell. "I love you, too. I love you, too." he repeated, between kisses. He brought one hand up to slide his fingers through her thick hair. Damn, he loved her hair. He couldn't name one thing about her that he didn't love. Life couldn't get any better.

laurel

"Good," she mused with a smirk and a giggle. She truly did love to raise him up. To compliment him for as long as possible. He was honestly the greatest man she has ever met, so kind and loving. It all felt so natural with him, no pretend. She could truly envision a happy life with Finn and with it being filled with so much love and happiness. Sure, people look at them and see them still as kids. That they have no idea what the future holds. And sure, they got a point. But no matter what, Laurel truly wanted to brave anything and everything the future sends them. To hold each others's hand and stand by each others's side. No matter how rough the future got, she had a feeling that they would fight whatever necessary to be together and stay together. She loves him. She loves him more than she feared the uncertainty of tomorrow. And by the gods, was she so happy right now. She melted into his touch, one hand moving to cup his face while the other softly tugged and played with his locks. Just everything about him, from his scent to his touches to feeling him beneath her fingers, how he held her, how his kissed her, was just so intoxicating in the greatest way possible. Laurel truly could not get enough of him repeating that, those words filling her up with so much joy. She pulled apart, latching her lips onto his jaw to kiss him softly before trailing down his neck. She'd forgotten completely about breakfast, too wrapped up in her husband. This was happiness, huh? This was love, most certainly. And to be graced with this, with him... She truly was the luckiest woman in the world.

Finn

So many people had told Finn to leave Laurel; his parents thought he was absolutely crazy for moving all the way across the country to move in with a mere stranger. They told him that he was too young. That he would never make it. Yet, here he was half a year later so in love with a woman he didn't know existed less than a year ago. But Finn was loyal; he had made a commitment and he didn't want to go back on his word. Whether it was a drunken word or not; it was his word. They had already gone through so many obstacles as a couple; he figured they'd be able to get through anything life threw at them. Before he met Laurel...his life had been pretty boring. She just added so much excitement to his life. He learned so much from her, made him laugh, made him feel ways he had never felt before. He didn't think anything could bring him down when he was with her. He tilted his head back slightly as she kissed his neck, completely forgetting about their breakfast getting cold on the plates and focusing solely on their moment together; as a couple in love.

laurel

Her parents were use to her bold choices. How she had spent her senior year living in Cape Town in South Africa for study abroad, just to then live in Dubai as soon as she possibly could after graduation. They hadn't been prepared for her to suddenly be married at 20 and moving back to the States to live with a perfect stranger. That had even been their first time trying to put their foot down to dissuade her from going through with this. But... It didn't stop her. And she has been on the best adventure of her life so far with Finn Thatcher. She has fallen in love after someone had made her believe that love could potentially be awful and horrible. Finn's love was soft and warm. Yes, there's been complications and doubts. But over all, there has been a sense of boldness of being married to a stranger and learning to get to know them and befriend them and fall in love. "We should probably eat breakfast..." Yet Laurel made no move to pull away. She only pulled him closer, body rolling softly against his as she kissed his lips. Forget the damned breakfast; She was focused on the man she loves.

Finn

Before he met Laurel, Finn's life had been pretty boring. He never thought he would leave the small town he grew up in; he was established there. A good job, friends, family, comfort. Sure, he loved adventures but he also loved going home, sitting on his back porch facing the woods with the hills in the background. He loved hearing the wolves howl at night and letting the birds wake him up in the morning. He'd play paintball with his friends after work, go hunting, visit his parents often. He liked this life. Then he met Laurel. And wow, she made him love his life. He picked up everything and left that town without a second glance. He never regretted it for a minute. He wasn't a city person, but he'd more jus about anywhere if that meant he got to be with Laurel. He missed small town life, but he loved life with Laurel even more. "Sure." he said, half-heartedly as he left his wife pull him in closer to her. He pushed his hips into her's as he deepened their kiss. There was no way they were eating that breakfast while it was still hot.

laurel

She spent the first ten years of her life living in Turkey, but even then, her family would make trips all over Europe, the Middle East, North Africa, and West Asia. When they moved to Wyoming at first, they'd move near Yellowstone and would make frequent weekend trips to their neighboring states. Laurel was so use to adventures and being on the move, of not really staying in one place for long. But with Finn, she has come to realize that she loves coming home and staying there with him. She still loves her job, of course, but she also loves getting to be with her husband more. The brunette moaned softly, her hips rolling against his. "Bed?" It came out in a soft whisper, focused more on getting to kiss him. Of getting to be with him. They can always eat up the food afterwards.

Finn

His friends from high school had gone off to college in places like Pittsburgh, New York, DC. He stayed in town after high school, and started a job at the fire station; something he always wanted to do. He was 21, and at 21 he thought he had his whole life figured out. Don't all 21 year olds? Then, there was Laurel. She wasn't in his plan. She taught him that plans changed; not all good. This change happened to be one of the good ones. Probably one of the best ones. He raised his brow at the suggestion of going to the bedroom. That was just what he wanted to hear. He placed a few more kisses on his lips. "Mhmmm..." he said, lowly as he slipped his hand in hers and lead them through their tiny home into their bedroom. He brought her back into him and kissed her passionately. He definitely loved these moments with her. This one was even better considering they had just told each other that they loved each other for the first time.

#discord #laurel

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misssophiachase · 5 years

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So, this is my new Dynasty Fallon/Liam fic, I hope you like it. A foray into another fandom if you follow this show of course.

With or Without You:

Part 1

Burj Al Arab Jumeirah Beach Hotel – Dubai, UAE – local time 11:47pm

"Do you have a reservation Mrs…" the curious employee at the front desk inquired, his eyes briefly dropping to scan her all white ensemble.

"Do I look like someone's wife to you?" She huffed. Maybe it was uncalled for but she'd travelled through more time zones than necessary and, to top it all off, the humidity was messing with her perfectly curled tresses.

"I'm sorry Miss," he stumbled, "I just assumed with that ensemble…"

"Can't a girl wear a white dress without all the damn assumptions?" She demanded. Sure, she was still poured into her fitted, Vera Wang gown but she hadn't had much time to change let alone think about her next move. Telling the pilot on her private jet to fly to Dubai was as much as she could handle for the moment.

"Of course," he apologised, bowing his head slightly. "Do you have a reservation, Ma'am?"

"Of course I don't," she offered, not quite expecting any person to ask that of Fallon Carrington even in the United Arab Emirates. "Okay, I'm tired and yes, not to prove your earlier point, but I just ran out on my wedding. The least you could do is steer me in the right direction and by that I mean my ex-husband's suite." She couldn't miss the way his eyebrows raised sharply at that comment.

"So, let me get this straight," he murmured, his eyes frantically searching his computer screen. "You almost got married but are here to find your ex-husband?" Fallon wasn't expecting quite this much judgment this late at night.

"Isn't that what I just said?" She asked, rubbing her temples slowly. "And while I'm at it, I also need a massage and some valium, it's been a trying day."

"I can only imagine," he observed. "So, uh, your ex-husband, what room is he in?"

"Do you think I'd be asking if I knew?" She scoffed. "Given this is the only seven-star hotel in Dubai I assumed he'd be here and, quite frankly, if he's gone somewhere else I might need to question his standards and completely reconsider this unpredictable excursion."

He looked at her perplexed. "Can I get you some water?"

"The only clear liquid I drink is vodka," she growled. "But we'll order that later. His name is Liam Ridley." He scanned his bookings, given the blank stare Fallon knew she'd picked the wrong alias. "Try Jack Lowden." Another search proved futile. "Or put them all together for Jack Liam Ridley Lowden?"

"How about that water?" He offered and she couldn't miss the way his eyes flickered towards security.

"I'm Fallon Carrington," she insisted, raising her voice as only she could. "I want to see your manager." He paused briefly before moving away, albeit reluctantly.

"Can't we go anywhere without you throwing a tantrum?" He whined. "I mean just once, it's so unattractive, Fallon."

"I'm sorry I'm ruining your day, or night," she huffed. "And last time I checked, you work for me but have been fussing with the cases at the concierge station while I've been subjected to Dubai's biggest smart ass."

"I had to check my Prada, rhinestone loafers were still intact after the flight," Sam replied defensively. "And last time I checked you could handle yourself, sis."

"Don't call me that," she groaned.

"But you are…"

"But the way you say it makes me feel so normal and old," she complained. "Last time I checked you were the married one and I was…"

"How about we talk about your current relationship status and that explosive turn of events later and after some much needed valium?"

"I need to find him," she murmured sadly. "I wouldn't have run out on my wedding and travelled this far otherwise, but that idiot receptionist has it in for me."

"Maybe this calls for some undercover measures," Sam offered excitedly. "I could inspect the premises and find Liam, I have a brilliant radar for gorgeous men."

"On second thought," she shook her head, looking around before making her way behind the desk. "Just keep watch, I'm going to search the reservation list."

"I'm impressed," Sam smiled. "Usually you just stamp your feet, yell loudly and throw a tantrum so this is an improvement."

"You realise I can fire you at any minute, right?" She replied through gritted teeth, her eyes scanning the names but nothing was jumping out and by the way Sam was flapping his arms and the noise she could hear emanating from the back office Fallon knew her time was almost done.

Her finger stopped suddenly, there was something about that name that grabbed her attention. She noted the room number and resumed her position for the approaching manager and smug side-kick. Before a word could be said, she slapped her passport, Black Amex Credit Card and an impressive wad of Dirham currency on the desk. "I need two suites; my assistant will help you with the arrangements."

Sam gave her a puzzled look before turning to fill out the obligatory paperwork. Fallon stalked towards the elevator, stopping the doors before closing and stepping inside. The couple inside gave her a curious glance before selecting their floor, she was glad that after the past few days something was finally going right and she didn't need to intervene.

Leaning against the back wall, Caroline closed her eyes planning just what she was going to say but nothing came and suddenly she felt stupid. The elevator dinged signalling his floor and she almost didn't make her way out, Fallon was that nervous.

This wasn't her.

At all.

But she knew there was a reason why she'd made the mad dash out of Atlanta and to Dubai. She just hoped she could explain it to Liam and herself at the same time.

The number 907 was emblazoned on her brain and she made her way almost in a trance to that door. Inhaling sharply, Fallon steeled her nerves before knocking, albeit lightly. As time passed, she refused to exhale the disappointment growing by the silence, until the door flew open.

Naked, bar a white towel slung low on his hips, Fallon was momentarily speechless. This wasn't how she saw things going given she had to formulate words and an explanation for her sudden appearance. But they didn't come. His blue eyes met hers before moving lower briefly.

"Am I supposed to be congratulating you?" He murmured, his eyes slightly downcast. "Or do you usually visit international hotels in dress-up, Fallon?" The way he said her name almost broke her resolve completely.

"I came to see you," she began slowly. "But I'm not gonna lie, the service in this hotel is terrible. The receptionist had the nerve to judge my choices in life, and wouldn't tell me your room number. And I even explained that you were my ex-husband but obviously it wasn't enough. I can tell you right now he won't be getting a tip."

"I'm sure he'll be mortified," he said, a slight smile tugging at the edge of his lips. "But how did you find my room?"

"Trust me, I covered all the usual aliases," she teased. "But what can I say, the name William Thacker stuck with me."

"Wow, says the girl who reverse quoted Notting Hill to me before her grandfather's funeral and swore she'd never seen it?" He smirked knowingly. Fallon wanted to hate his reaction, but it was the most gorgeous thing she'd seen especially since he was so barely clothed. "But it seems as if Julia Roberts is a running theme in your life given your current Runaway Bride attire."

"Now, that is a long story and for the record I hated that film…"

#with or without you #falliam #dynasty fan fiction #dynasty #fallon x liam #misssophiachase

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thegrandtortoise · 6 years

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How to completely obliterate your jetlag:

Allright, story time. I’m going to tell you how I totally avoided what should have been a 12 hour time difference jetlag.

So, the thing is, I live in the Pacific NW (GO Seahawks!). Me and my parents were taking a trip to India to see all my relatives, and there aren’t many direct flights from here to India. As a result, we always do a little layover- sometimes in Europe, once in Korea, once in Singapore. This year, we took Emirates, so the layover was in Dubai (beautiful city, hot as an oven. Would 100% recommend).

Since our layover was in Dubai, we decided to stay for a couple days, as a little mini vacation.

Now I know some of you little weaklings are all like “OMG, an EIGHT HOUR flight? How am I going to survive? I’ll die!!”

Bitch, this was a 14 hour flight.

FOURTEEN FUCKTASTIC HOURS.

So yeah. Our flight from Seattle was at 2:00 pm, so naturally, I woke up at eight am, while my parents were going absolutely hysterical doing last minute packing and cleaning and shit. (Not to mention, the three of us had stayed up until like 12 am packing.)

After my parents were done yelling at each other and trying to make sure I didn’t look like a total mess, the shuttle guy arrived and we all hauled our asses into the van and collapsed.

We got to the airport, we checked in, got to our gate, I had a delicious cinnamon roll, blah blah blah.

And then we got on the plane. Now mind you, it had been about two years since I had been on a plane, and I really love flying, so I was super pumped. I was doing what all teens do on an airplane- checking out the magazines and the movies, figuring out how the weird headphones worked (mine didn’t, so I stole my dad’s pair), and getting all snuggly with the blanket and pillows they provided. I was ready to go.

A lot of people hate long flights, but I like them. Idk why.

Anyway, we were on the runway in no time, and in the air. Everyone around me was settling in- picking a nice movie to watch, maybe getting in a nap before they served dinner, whatever. I’m not sure exactly what I decided to do, but I think I was probably screwing around with a little tv/computer thing on the seat in front of me.

Fast forward a couple hours. I’d watched half of Boss Baby, and gotten bored just as the villain was introduced. I’d picked at the gross airplane food (I always only eat the fruits and the dessert. The main course usually sucks.)

(oh ew ew ew ew I’m super sick right now, and I just turned to sneeze and a huge glob of snot landed on the arm of my chair)

Anyway, the flight attendants had turned the lights down, and a lot of people were getting pretty sleepy, including my parents. Me? Not so much. Feeling unsatisfied with Boss Baby, I put on Beauty and the Beast, hoping that some Emma Watson would satiate my need for a good airplane movie.

I didn’t work. I became bored pretty quickly, and the most horrible thing was that the dryness of the airplane air was getting to my skin. It was the first time that I really had a problem with the airplane air, and it was really uncomfortable.

At some point, my mom woke up and told me to go to sleep, and I tried, really I tried, but I couldn’t get over the air. I put in my headphones and tried listening to some nice, lullaby type music, but even that didn’t work. Eventually, I just gave up and started watching The Princess and the Frog.

Bet you can’t guess how long that lasted.

Fifteen minutes. Yep.

Disney was failing me that day.

I spent the rest of the ‘dark/sleepy/or whatever” time just people watching. It’s actually pretty fun to see what other people are watching, especially if they’ve got subtitles on.

Fast forward again. I made it to the last maybe three hours of the flight, and still no sleep. I’d picked through two more crappy meals (again with the fruit and the dessert). Determined to get at least one good movie into this hell of a flight, I turned to my good friend J.K Rowling, and put on Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them to watch for the second time (the first time was in the theater, if you were wondering. I actually just watched it for the third time yesterday on DVD). I was not failed.

I got through the whole movie, and my dad was rolling his eyes the whole time (he doesn’t understand!!). Then it was time for landing. Now, usually, I have no problem with the altitude drop/increases. My wonderful mom had always said, when you’re taking off or landing, during the whole time the altitude is changing, swallow your spit. Suck on a hard candy to get the saliva going, but basically swallowing your spit helps your ears adjust to the altitude. It’s sorta hard to explain, but I’m sure there’s science behind it.

For some reason, I decided to NOT follow this advice that day, and I deeply regretted it.

I spent the whole landing time with my head in my mom’s lap, my hands clamped over my ears, whimpering like a five year old.

So we landed, and it was getting pretty late in Dubai when we landed. The combined effort of getting out of the airport and getting to our hotel was one hour, and I was ready to collapse when we got to our room.

But no. One of my dad’s college friends who had settled in Dubai had graciously showed up and offered to take us to dinner. I really had wanted to just go to sleep, but my parents forced me out of the hotel and made me eat something.

(TBH, what I had was really good. Like, heavenly good. We had gone out for Indian food, because my mom was craving some authentic Indian food after the airplane crap, and I had a humongous ghee dosa, and if you don’t know what that is then you haven’t lived yet. Just look it up. I was basically delirious now, and I’m pretty sure my dad’s friend thought I was crazy, because I basically inhaled the whole thing, which was probably about two feet long. Just look at the picture and imagine.)

We finished dinner, and went back to the hotel, where I collapsed on the bed and immediately fell asleep.

Alright. Time for some math, children.

8 am to 2 pm= 6 hours.

A 14 hour flight

About 2 hours in Dubai before I was allowed to go to sleep.

Add it all together: a grand total of 22 HOURS.

I did not sleep for almost a full day and night. My body was dead by the time we got to Dubai, and this was the key- I was actually sleepy when I was supposed to be sleepy.

I had no problem with jet lag for the four days we were in Dubai, and the extra two hour time difference in India was a simple adjustment.

AND THAT IS HOW, BOYS AND GIRLS, I COMPLETELY OBLITERATED MY JET LAG.

I hope that was entertaining. I will stop rambling now. I hope you understand how you can get rid of your jet lag, and if you don’t then ask someone to explain, because my immune system has gone AWOL and I need to find it before I die of snot and chicken soup.

K bye.

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raatainstitute-blog · 4 years

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Become a Cabin Crew and earn Big for next 20 years with ‘Guaranteed Placements’

The idea of flying across the world every next day or month and getting paid for the same is enough to choose a cabin crew career. Traveling the world has always been a dream for many youngsters nowadays and guess what; unlike before we have courses and a professional job which helps you get paid for that. Cabin Crew is one of them, it is not only a happening job but also let you explore in so many segments and streams in its own way. International travels have been a dream to explore for each person and when you get to travel and work both at the same time; isn’t that the best?

Back in the days:

Previously, CA, CS, Doctor, MBA, etc were the only options but now students get opportunities to work on their passion and make that as a full-time job which they can enjoy. Jobs in Aviation Industry have been on a peak for a while now because this is the industry that is definitely going to run for a long time. People are definitely going to travel either for work or vacations whole their life, so isn’t this the best field if you have the interest already! There are so many airlines that keep on hiring candidates for the cabin crew with the increasing number of flights to be it domestic or international.

Lifestyle:

Life of an Air hostess or cabin crew is not that easy as they have to be always alert and be ready for the call. Grooming plays a very important and major role in their work lives. One cannot just wake up, wear formals or casuals and leave for the work as they do incorporate or any other sector. Each and every airline has its own uniforms and a few etiquettes that the employees need to follow.

Grooming:

Not only the uniforms but also the makeup brand is very specific for grooming in terms of the cabin crew. Each and every crew member should have a similar tone of makeup and hairstyle. Flights could be of any time during the day or night and a cabin crew is supposed to be in the same condition during the whole flight. Jet lags are a major issue which a lot of them face during international flights but as they say, each job has its own part and parcel.

Eligibility:

There are certain eligibility criteria like the girls and boys should be below 25 years if they want to be a part of the cabin crew industry. Though, it depends on airlines to airlines for the criteria again. Height should be minimum 5’5 for girls and 5’9 for boys and the weight should be proportionate to the height. The eyesight of a person should be 20/30 minimum for a better vision. Usually, airlines avoid opting for candidates with contact lenses. Education is quite basic like and HSC or diploma graduate can get through it easily but again it depends on airlines to airlines.

Communication is the key:

Communication skills and personality plays a very important role because that is what it's all about. Knowing different country languages is always a plus and chances of getting into international flights become higher. Coming to the salary package; the range and average usually depend on your skills and experience. For a fresher, the average salary is up to Rs.75000 per month which has other perks,financial and meal benefits as well. Highest among all the airlines, Emirates is the dream company for everyone which is very well known for its luxury and the benefits they give to their employees are something which anyone would fall for.

RAATA:

Let us discuss the best aviation courses in Mumbai which has a major focus on cabin crew courses. RAATA is very well known for the best training institute and the only one which gives a 100% job guarantee to all of their students. They also provide International internship with Emirates, isn’t that happening?

RAATA has been one of the topmost cabin crew training institute based out in Kurla as their headquarters and Andheri being the branch of the same. Job guarantee in the Aviation Industry is not always confirmed but here at the Royal Air Aviation Training Academy, you get it assured. You learn and explore so that you land up in the best dream job that you desired right!

Courses available:

Similarly, not only the Cabin crew, but RAATA also provides courses for Hospitality, Ground Handling, and Travel Management as well. It provides exclusive cabin crew training to candidates for the most glamorous profession in the aviation industry. Mumbai is a city of dreams and there are many students who come to Mumbai just for education and work. RAATA is one of the top air hostess training institutes in Mumbai and provides the best courses with a reasonable fee structure.

Job Assistance:

Royal Air aims to provide quality training, timely assistance, and guidance to the students thereby ensuring a bright future ahead. Innovation is the key to excel in each sector and RAATA based in Mumbai makes sure that the teaching factors and mentors are the best to guide each student. They are associated with topmost brands in the aviation and hotel industry which are ibis, go air, indigo, Oman Air, JW Marriott, The Lalit, Vistara, Spice Jet, Air India and many more. So that the students get the best placement and packages once they are trained. Also, makes them super ready to fly to pursue their dream career.

Conclusion:

As said each stream comes with its own pros and cons so cabin crew has its own. The initial glamour and happiness might wear off soon once it becomes hectic for you. The work is not easy as it seems because you have to be on your feet all the while and mentally stable and patient for the same. You might have to give up on the social life because of the workdays and timings but guess what in the end it is all worth it. But you do not need to worry as RAATA will train you for the best and worst!

#raata #aviation #cabincrew #cabin crew courses #aviation courses #aviation training #air hostess #air hostess course #air hostess courses

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jumbledubai · 5 years

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16 Fantastic Children’s Birthday Party Ideas In Dubai.

These are so much more than a disco and a caterpillar cake…

Planning a children’s party can be stressful, but luckily there are plenty of places in Dubai to help you out. With no shortage of fabulously inventive children’s activities, you’re spoilt for choice whether you’re throwing a small bash or an over-the-top extravaganza for the whole school.

Here, we’ve rounded up out top picks of children’s party ideas that are sure to impress all your little guests.

1. Interactive kids museum

Don’t be put off by the word ‘museum’, Oli Oli is an amazing space full of eight fun-filled galleries including Water, Air, Cars & Ramps, Toshi’s Nets, Creative Lab, Future Park, Toddlers and Forts & Dens, in which kids will have a fun, interactive and educational experience. During May, they’re offering their “Awesome Party Experience’ package for less, where you can choose one of the galleries to throw it in, which includes organic party food and a dedicated party facilitator. Let them get creative by adding a workshop too.

Oli Oli Building, Al Quoz, Dubai, ‘Awesome Party Experience’ from Dhs126 per child Sun to Thurs, Dhs147 Fri to Sat, adults and birthday child free. Tel: (04) 702 7300.

2. Slime Parties

Making your own ‘slime’ has become a really popular kids activity in the last couple of years and, lets face it, most kids love to get their hands dirty. Conducted by 8-year-old ‘Slime Princess’, Rafa, The Slime Squad throw slime birthday parties at your home, or head to one of their slime-making workshops at Mercato Mall, Time Square Center and Wafi Mall.

The Slime Squad Dubai, various locations, Dhs50 per child to make 2 types of slime. Tel: (050) 983 1815.

3. Pizza-making

Pizza is a bit of a universal favourite, so this pizza-making party offered by Pizza Express is a great way for little ones to have fun and learn cooking skills as they make their own creations. They’ll get a choice of ingredients, a glass of apple or orange juice and a chef’s hat and apron. Of course, once cooked, they’ll be able to tuck into their delicious pizzas.

Jazz@PizzaExpress, JLT, Cluster A, Jumeirah Lake Towers, JLT, Dubai, Dhs68 per child, 2hrs. Tel: (04) 441 6342.

4. Soft play

Kids Zone is well-known amongst parents in Dubai for its endless activities and boundless fun. Designed to stimulate children in fun, educational and creative ways, there is an indoor play area, a range of classes, arts and crafts and playgroup activities. They do special kids’ birthday parties which include invitations, decorations, balloons, catering, music and a choice of activities in the package. There’s one at Dubai Investment Park, Souk al Bahar and The Market Mall.

Kids Zone, Souk Al Bahar, Level 2, Downtown Dubai. Weekdays Dhs85 per child, Thurs to Sat Dhs90 per child, 2hrs. Tel: (04) 429 0973.

5. Pamper parties

Belle Enfance is perfect for letting children be little prince and princesses for the day. The salon is set in the style of a normal adults one, but all made in miniature – with a boys and girls section. Great for kids haircuts, they also offer a range of salon treatments for under 12s including mini-manicures and makeup along with face painting and hair styling for boys and girls.

Belle Femme Beauty Salon, Opposite Sunset Mall, Jumeirah Road, Dubai, daily 10am to 9pm, prices vary. Tel: (04) 395 3334.

6. Disco fever

DS2dio Kids take the stress out of party planning for you. They take care of everything, with with their ‘Disco Party’ which includes fun choreographed dance routines, arts and crafts, entertainer and party host, meal, drink, balloons, games, face painting and more. All you have to do is provide the cake. Parties last 2hrs, you’ll just need a minimum of 15 kids for the party.

Ds2dio Kids, Cluster T, Jumeirah Lakes Towers, Dubai, from Dhs109.(055) 8496 193.

7. TEPfactor

TEPfactor challenges groups to work together to solve a number of challenges around the ‘cave’. They offer a number of party packages for those who crave a little extra adventure, with kids aged 8 to 12 playing from Dhs79 and 13+ from Dhs99.

TEPfactor Dubai, Bahar Plaza, Jumeirah Beach Residence, Dubai, Sun to Wed 12pm to 12am, Thurs to Sat 12pm to 1am, from Dhs79 per hour. Tel: (056) 404 0802.

8. Go-karting

Dubai Autodrome offers an exciting day out for all ages, offering the chance for people to discover their racing driver dreams. Their indoor space Kartdrome is perfect for when the weather gets too hot, and the younger ones can enjoy it too with carefully monitored karting sessions designed for kids aged 7 to 12.

Dubai Autodrome, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, 9am to 9pm, daily Kartdrome from Dhs105. Tel: (04) 367 8700.

9. Solve clues and challenges

This one will suit is better suited for young adults, as Jumble welcomes children aged 12 and over. Groups will work together taking on a series of physical and mental challenges to make it through the maze. ‘Jumble Parties’ offer two hours of challenges along with food from their French bakery. Minimum booking requirement is 10 people.

Jumble, Sheikh Zayed Rd, Dubai, daily 12pm to 12am, ‘Premium Package, Dhs129 per person. Tel: 800 586 253.

10. A gamer’s heaven

The UAE’s first immersive entertainment park, Hub Zero is a huge indoor facility with 18 awesome rides and attractions including climbing zones, virtual reality, arcade games and other games areas with adrenaline-filled activities like laser quest.

Hub Zero, City Walk, Phase 2, Dubai, Saturday to Wednesday 12pm to 11pm, Thursday & Friday 12pm to 12am, from Dhs165. Tel: 800 637227.

11. Defy gravity

For a totally exhilarating experience that a little different from the usual birthday party ideas, iFLY Dubai is a definite must-try. Little ones will be taken up 4-meters in the air and held against gravity so it feels like they’re flying.

Ifly Dubai, Third Floor, Play Nation Area, City Centre, Sheikh Zayed Road, Sunday to Thursday 12pm to 10pm, Friday & Saturday 10am to 11pm, Dhs220. Tel: (04) 231 6292.

12. Mini Golf

Mini-golf is great fun for kids to get involved with, and the Tee & Putt at WAFI Mall that’s lit up in neon lights provides a great atmosphere for a children’s get-together. This is a great one for family days out or birthday parties, with a number of ready made parties like ‘Let the Party Roarrrrrrr’ or ‘One and Only Glowing Party’ available.

Tee & Putt Mini Golf, WAFI Mall, Level 1, Oud Metha Rd, Dubai, Sunday to Wednesday 10am to 10pm, Dhs80, Thursday & Friday 10am to 12am, from Dhs95. Tel (04) 357 3290.

13. Get inside Dreamworks’ films

Motiongate Dubai, the Dreamworks Studio Park is a fantastic place to be a kid in the city. There are four unique lands to explore based on blockbuster favourites such as Shrek, Kung Fu Panda, Madagascar, The Flintstones and The Smurfs. Parties will enjoy a fun-filled day of rides, 4D screenings and interactive shows. We recommend a few chaperones for this one!

Motiongate Dubai, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai Park and Resorts, Weekdays 12pm to 9pm, Weekends 12pm to 10pm, Dhs245. Tel: (800) 2629464.

14. Ski Dubai

Ski Dubai is perfect for when the weather gets too hot. This ski park inside Mall of the Emirates has loads of entertainment for a seriously ‘cool’ birthday party. They have a number of packages available, with a popular one being the ‘Snow Park’ package, which includes snow gear rental, kids meal, invitation cards, goodie bags and amazing snow park activities like Slide Hill, Tubing Run, Tobogganing, Bobsled, Snow Plough and Snow Bumpers. Bookings require a minimum on 10 and a maximum of 25 children.

Ski Dubai, Mall of the Emirates, Sheikh Zayed Rd, Dubai, (Snow Package) weekdays Dhs185 per child, weekends Dhs195 per child.

15. Bounce around

Bounce is awesome fun and something that all boys and girls will love (and it will definitely tire them out by the time they get home). The Birthday Party package lasts two hours and includes a meet and greet with the party host, hour of freestyle fun, games and a range of food options to fuel up on afterwards. Packages can be individually tailored so best to head to their website to do it.

BOUNCE Trampoline Park, Building 32, Al Quoz, Dubai, 12pm to 12am, Bounce Bites from Dhs135 per child. Tel: (04) 321 1400.

16. Get your skates on

The Dubai Ice rink is perfect for a more active birthday party. Preferably for smaller groups, prices start from Dhs130 per child for 30 minutes and Dhs150 for one hour. Kids can glide along the ice with glee, supervised by a coach followed by a birthday announcement and song played for the special birthday boy or girl. Party bookings should be a minimum booking of ten.

Dubai Ice Rink, Ground Level, Dubai Mall, Dubai, daily 12am to 12pm. Tel: 800 382246255.

Source:- whatson.ae

#Dubai #Entertainment #Adventure #Birthday Party In Dubai #Celebration #Fun #UAE #Party

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bennopolo · 7 years

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Dubai - Tomorrowland or city of grey men?

I arrive and I just get hit by a big club of metropolis. I feel lost and misplaced cycling on the wide roads amidst huge SUV’s and Maseratis. I feel poor like the Indians and Pakistani who are also cycling in comparison the many people whom Allah has bought a Mercedes Benz. But on the other side, who comes to Dubai on an unmotorised vehicle??? It’s like bringing a knife to a gun fight. Iran’s first class citizen queues up at the end of Dubai’s food chain of glittering wealth and sets his tent on the only beach where (tent-)camping is somewhat tolerated, behind campers that even have garages for motor bikes…but I must admit, Dubai’s architecture is stunning, you watch the lights at night or take a little stroll at Dubai’s marina and you feel like in Tomorrowland! When the Scheichs open the pocket for some nice architecture and design, they go all the way, chapeau!

Fortunately, I had met Ivan, a cyclist from Bulgaria, on the ferry and he guides me directly to the Dubai’s Travellers Festival. We enjoy the supreme Arab hospitality and every evening the company and Dia shows of a world elite of travellers. We meet extraordinary people who all turn out to be so nice and tangible face to face.

People like the pretty power twins Nungshi and Tashi Malik, they have climbed the seven highest mountains of the seven continents, left their mark on north and south pole (all on their own and not carried by an Armada of Sherpas and guides), and manage a foundation to support women in India besides their studies, and so on…ah, and all that at the age of 24.

The presentation of the Spanish travelling clown who is cycling and clowning for 13 years around the world is not only funny as he does not miss to remind that travellers profit so much from the hospitality of people around the world (especially from the poor) that they have an obligation to give something back!

Or the camel-whisperer, excuse my lazy translation of ‘Kamelflüsterer’, a simple man who crossed Africa on a camel and could talk better with camels than humans. With eyes that I deem not capable of lying, he told me such an incredible story about his camel that I leave it for a glass of red wine (hey, I have to keep a couple of things for myself, otherwise I come back and don’t have anymore stories to tell).

Most touching, however, is the story of Capucine, a so very natural and quite French woman whose home is the ocean, whose element is the water. Due to some sickness (I forgot which one) she was forced to abandon her career as professional regatta sailor and was trapped four years in the hospital, not being able to walk. Against all odds and facing discouragement from almost every person around her, she remodelled a small Bengal nutshell that had somehow found it’s way into the harbour of Marseille and set out to cross the oceans — without and electronic navigation aid, but with a sextant and stars…when she said that she could FEEL a storm coming days in advance, there was no place for doubts.

Back to Dubai. With Christmas approaching far from home I really, really feel the (forbidden) need for a beer on the beach. However, only (non-muslim) residents can buy alcohol in the liquor shops and the skyscraper-over-priced ambience of some hotel lobby is not very luring. But then heaven sends the Welsh (not British ;) ) lady Angharad with has a heart not only for dogs, but also for sober travellers as there is apparently no corner of the earth she has not travelled herself. An invitation to the home of her and her husband Alan, an exquisitely friendly army veteran who tries to keep the Blackhawks up in the Emirates, follows the beer in the sun. They display full generosity to the beach bugs Sigi (german cyclist), Matti (swiss motor-cyclist), and me and the evening of beer, wine, open bar, and stories as beautiful as thought-provoking takes such a merry course that I have a headache still next evening (but with a smile on my face!)…

There are many, many nice and interesting people in Dubai. Even though the Arabs treat me very nicely, the nicest are the Nepalesi of working at the Starbucks where I spend my days writing, talking to family and friends, and (unsuccessfully) trying to find a ship to India. Your beautiful black waitress is a full fledged lawyer from Kenya and William, a mechanic from ‘Wolfi’s bike shop’ (yes, the Dubai dependance of the one from Heitersheim) who generously helps my to make my bicycle ready for take-off, is working hard to secure the future of his family as well as his sisters families.

I try to have a little chat with all of them, and, surprisingly, they all tell me the same story. Dubai is tax-free, except for the Americans. For these sad poor lads only the first 100.000 USD are free, as Alan explains me just a slightly bit whiny-voiced. And that’s it: pretty much all the foreigners come for the (relatively easy) money, and 90 percent of Dubai’s population are foreigners. Nobody comes for the quality of life, or to become old in Dubai. Life can be pretty cold in the oven of Dubai: the guest workers are treated and paid mostly not according to their qualification, but according to their passport. Number one are US citizens, followed by British and Europeans, and then rest of the world. If an American is harmed, then hell breaks loose. If a Philippine housemaid openly accuses her Arab employer of abuse, she been left the country by tomorrow.

At this point I should be a little bit more fair. From antiquity up to the modern times the primal source of income for the Arabs was slave trade and fifty years ago Dubai was just some ensemble of clay huts. Given that, it is pretty astonishing what has been achieved in Dubai so short time (ok, also with a little help of some easily flammable stuff underground). But women’s suffrage is no more than 100 years old in Europe and in terms of racism, na ja, we Germans should not be to bold in that matter...

But now comes the most interesting part of their stories: whenever I ask anyone of them since how long they are in Dubai, they all answer: “Let me think, it is now x years — oh, it is x years already!” They all surprised by how long they are already there, and almost all of them had not planned to stay that long. “The days are long, but the years fly by, maybe it is because there are no seasons?” I hear. “And besides Angharad, who is truly about to leave, they all say: “I want to stay a just little longer, save just a little more money, pay just some more bills…”, and suddenly I have to think of Michael Ende’s story of Momo and the grey gentlemen.

In this wonderful story grey men enter the world of the little orphan girl Momo and convince people to save their time at the time bank to get it back later, with interest of course. The time is stored in the pedals of hour-lilies which the grey men consume smoking as cigars (how beautiful is that!), and of course the people never get the time back but they and the world around them become grey as well and they need more time…

#momo #dubai #middle east

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travelcenter-uk · 4 years

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Air travel and social distancing – post COVID-19.

Yes, I know how ‘bored in the house and in the house bored’ you are. You might have finished binge-watching all your favourite tv series, including the ones you never even thought of watching. Quarantine has not been easy on us, and I know exactly how you are feeling right now. You may have spoken to all the blokes and girls in social media out of boredom, and you might have done challenges which you never dreamt of, trust me I’m one of them. Now you might be saying you want to travel to your favourite beach destination or wherever, after the pandemic ends, but did you ever think about what will it be to fly along with social distancing?

But, your getaway isn’t a loss of course when you fly with Travel Center! I know we are all getting cold feet since the outbreak has been hitting on our chances of travelling, but that doesn’t mean we should give up our travel dreams. Because giving up is not what heroes do, right?

The Aviation Industry and our influence

The aviation trade has never handled such a challenge for ages, as stated by the International Air Travel Association (IATA). Consequently, it doesn’t mean that you can’t travel to your favourite destination. With more than 30 years of experience, we satisfy our customer according to their needs which means you can book with no hassle as we do our thorough research before stepping into a holiday deal.

If anything goes wrong in your destination, you still don’t have to worry because we are ATOL and ABTA protected, and full refunds are guaranteed.

Social distancing

Specialists have recommended that whenever lockdowns throughout the world are raised, social distancing should be a pivotal factor to continue. It is also likely that some nations might only let in travellers who can assure that they do not have coronavirus.

Social distancing with Emirates

In this week, Emirates became the premier airline to inaugurate pre-flight testing for COVID-19, assigning travellers with ‘negative’ records before service from Dubai to Tunisia on last Wednesday. Dubai’s state-owned flag carrier says it plans to work out the service to more routes in the purpose it can kick-start a recovery of global aviation. Furthermore, the airline has produced face masks compulsory in both the airport and on-board, and they have also prevented having hand luggage from the cabin; in-flight magazines are similarly removed from the cabins, along with reduced meal options. If you thought air travel was a waste of time before, you are going to be in for a shock for what’s coming up in future.

Some airlines also stated that they might obstruct the middle seats on its flights to maintain healthy social distancing while flights return. Meanwhile, this will mean 62 fewer seats will be available on flights available on every plane (example- 124 seats from a 186-seat Airbus A320).

Why you shouldn’t cancel your booking

As you know it, the main inference is cheaper flight fares. If you book your holiday now, you will have flight fares under the same price radar costing you none in the future. Oh, what about accommodation? Even top-class hotels have similarly lower prices where you can’t even dream of a stay in a particular hotel for that specific amount. These consequences prove that not cancelling a booking also allows higher value on hotels is true. Don’t even think of cancelling a holiday and ruining your travel plans, just reschedule.

So, looking on to the brighter side of the picture, why not save the date for later and enjoy it? Good things come to those who wait, and I have never seen such a fruitful quote even when it comes to relationships(sigh). Anyways, if you are ready to shift your holiday date, we will be with you until you go and return too. Travelling is an art; not every person has the privilege to travel. So, make use of the best, and Travel Center will do the rest!

Read More:- https://blog.travelcenter.uk/trendy-travel-methods-in-2020-2021/

This Article, Information & Images Source (copyright) :- https://blog.travelcenter.uk

#travel #travelcenteruk #travelvibes #wanderlust #traveller #travellife #travelgoals #bestplacetotravel #Holidaymakers

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the2travel · 7 years

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* World Travel Tips : 11 Beauty Products Flight Attendants Swear By

Travel Tips -

Looking pulled-together at work is a bit more challenging for flight attendants than for those who have to do it at the average desk job. Not only do in-flight employees face early wakeup calls, long days and jet lag, but they also have to maintain their looks at 35,000 feet, where the air is drier, the lighting is rough and the changes in pressure can throw bodily systems for a loop.

How do they stay so glamorous?!

We asked flight attendants for their style tips, and five factors quickly emerged as key to a polished in-flight appearance. Although passengers are by no means required to dress up, these cabin crew habits can help anyone who wants to look fly in the sky (or upon landing, for that matter).

1. A stellar smile

Smiling is part of a flight attendant’s job, of course, and many female cabin crew members are required to wear lipstick as part of their uniform. Red is their go-to color for a reason, according to Elizabeth Upshaw, a former JetBlue flight attendant. “Try a red, and you’ll be surprised how much it helps you look rested and ready to go,” she said. “Red lipstick also helps your teeth appear whiter and makes your smile dazzle.”

“I keep [my smile] beaming with activated charcoal tooth polish by Carbon Coco.” ― Jay Robert of Fly Guy

“I’ll usually hop in the lav and throw on some more matte liquid lipstick. My favorite are Too Faced mattes, they’re phenomenal and stay all day.” ― Emily Jones, Frontier Airlines

“I know so many flight attendants who swear by LipSense. You apply at the beginning of the day, and it lasts through my four-leg days. I love that it comes with a moisturizing gloss that I can swipe on during the day.” ― Elizabeth Upshaw, formerly of JetBlue

2. Long-lasting primers and creams

A flight attendant’s shift can last up to 14 hours, so long-lasting makeup is key.

“I recommend using a good primer to help your makeup last throughout the day. My favorite is NYX First Base.” ― Ebony Christina of Fly Girl’s Guide

“I use Urban Decay’s ‘All Nighter’ spray. That keeps my makeup seamless and perfect for the day. It keeps it from melting off.” ― Emily Jones, Frontier Airlines

”I always have on a pore minimizer BB cream. Just a small layer of something on my skin protects it from all of the contaminates in the air!” ― Katie Taylor, flight attendant with a major airline

“My favorite hack for glowing, hydrated skin is the Translucent Bronzing Tint by Dr. Hauschka.” ― Jay Robert of Fly Guy

3. Concealer

The male flight attendants we surveyed were big fans of concealer.

“Boots No7 rapid revival eye roll-on for men is refreshing, cooling and great for getting rid of the bags under your eyes.” ― Dustin Anderson of Flight Crew Life

”Before landing, hit the under eyes with a concealer from Dr. Hauschka.” ― Jay Robert of Fly Guy

4. A hydrating facial spray

“Many of the Emirates cabin crew use a hydrating spray during flight – they can be applied over makeup and give skin an instant boost of freshness,” said flight attendant Carmen Tejeda. When reapplying makeup, she said, a spray “stops touch-ups from looking cakey.”

“I travel with Evian facial spray.” ― Kelsie Franklin, flight attendant with a major airline

“I always have Mario Badescu’s rose water facial spray during flights to add moisture.” ― Christina Tomyo, Spirit Airlines

5. Water

They’ve said it before, and they’ll say it again: Almost every flight attendant we surveyed mentioned hydration as the core of their in-flight routine.

“The key to staying refreshed while flying is to drink PLENTY of water. It’s recommended to drink at least one cup of water for every hour of flight.” ― Ebony Christina of Fly Girl’s Guide

-- This feed and its contents are the property of The Huffington Post, and use is subject to our terms. It may be used for personal consumption, but may not be distributed on a website.

World Travel Tips : Find cheap flights, hotels and car rentals. Plan your trip with travel guides, personalized recommendations, articles, deals and more. When you travel, you want your bags to travel with you. Follow these tips from travel professionals on how not to lose your luggage.

#best travel guides #Travel Tips #Travel Information #Travel Guide #Travel Agent News for The travel

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martinfzimmerman · 7 years

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The value of boarding school for children of UAE expats

There was a time when flights to the UAE at the start of the school holidays were known as the "Lollipop Express", crammed full of unaccompanied children on their way home from boarding schools around the world.

Those days are long gone as the UAE now has its own range of reputable schools for parents to choose from. However, the attraction of an overseas education is still there and in some cases it can be more cost-effective than a day school in the Emirates.

"With the current exchange rate in the UAE, British boarding schools are a good value option to provide the best educational options," says Sarah Sparling of UK boarding school specialists Anderson Education. American boarding institutions can also offer value for money.

Veronica Ayanian has asked her parents to send her to a British boarding school for some time now.

"I want to be in that atmosphere and meet all the different students who go to boarding school," says the 13-year-old Lebanese-Italian. "Here in Dubai, I always have to say: 'Hey mum, drive me to this place so I can meet my friends.' I want to have more independence."

Which is why her mother, Francesca Ayanian, took her to the fifth edition of the British Boarding Schools Show - held recently at the Sheraton Hotel, Mall of the Emirates - to find out how a UK boarding institution might measure up to the standards of private day schools in the UAE. Thirty-six exhibitors attended this year's event - its biggest ever line-up.

But how does it compare price-wise?

According to Ms Sparling, the average British boarding school costs £30,000 (Dh141,432), with Dulwich College in London, for example, in the highest bracket at £39,480 a year. A report released earlier this year by the online education guide Edarabia shows that average school fees in the UAE are significantly cheaper, ranging from Dh2,479 at the lower end to Dh120,145 at the top end.

But boarding school prices also include accommodation, tuition, meals, laundry and school trips with only pocket money and flights to factor in on top.

The cost of a full education up to degree level per child in the UAE is almost Dh1 million, according to the insurer Zurich, which claims this makes it the most expensive country in the world in this regard.

"This number does not account for the price of books, uniforms or trips, which could further increase the total expense by 40 per cent for top-level schools," says a spokeswoman at the comparison website Souqalmal.com, which has about 300 UAE schools listed on its site. And with the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) recently allowing private schools in Dubai to increase their fees for the academic year 2017-18 by a minimum of 2.4 per cent, up to a maximum of 4.8 per cent, dependent on each school's rating, Souqalmal.com says more expats will reconsider their education options.

"Amid the rising cost of education, more families will be considering sending their children either back home or to other countries to finish their studies."

Veronica Ayanian has shown an interest in attending Bedales, a school set in 120 acres of farmland, orchards and playing fields in Hampshire in the UK. Bedales boasts an alternative curriculum that includes rudimentary farming, and charges £34,533 a year for the privilege. Annual fees at Veronica's current school, the American School of Dubai, are only Dh113,169 (£24,057) in comparison. But the extra cost of a boarding school does make sense for what the schools provide, argues her mother.

"As a parent you make it work, if it is something you know your child truly wants," says Ms Ayanian. "Veronica wants to experience a different upbringing than we can give her here in Dubai. She feels like she's living in a bubble here and finds it restrictive."

American boarding schools are a little harder on the wallet for parents considering other overseas locations for their child's education.

Ronald Mangravite, author of the book American Prep: The Insider's Guide to US Boarding Schools, says that US boarding schools range from US$55,000 to $65,000 annually.

Out of the 200-plus boarding schools in the US, he claims that the two best known are Phillips Exeter Academy in New Hampshire (known as Exeter) and Phillips Academy in Andover, Massachusetts (known as Andover). "These schools, founded by the same family in the 1700s, are known for excellent academics, large endowments and very low acceptance rates. Each enrols around 1,000 students," he says.

Other top schools, which are smaller in size, include Groton, Saint Paul's and Hotchkiss.

"All these schools have very low admission rates, high test scores, a stunning range of academic, athletic and extra curricular programs, and many international study and service opportunities," Mr Mangravite adds.

Other international options include Switzerland, a country that prides itself on the reputation of its private schools. All of the top 10 most expensive boarding schools in the world can be found there, according to Business Insider. Topping the list is Le Rosey at Dh402,121 a year, which boasts an equestrian centre with 30 horses and a spa for kids to unwind in after classes.

But not all countries have a strong tradition of sending children to boarding schools.

The Dubai-based couple Erin and Stein Arnesen are from Norway, where boarding schools are not a popular part of the culture.

However, their 11- year-old daughter, currently a student at Jumeirah College, has her heart set on a British boarding school education.

"Kids can't explore here in Dubai the way that they can in Europe, and she doesn't want to be a teenager here," says Mr Arnesen, who runs a business in the oil sector. The Arnesens are planning to make sure they can afford the extra cost of a boarding school education by downsizing from a villa to an apartment.

"We're finding that British boarding schools cost about double what a day school costs here in Dubai," Mr Arnesen says.

"But you get quite a lot more for that, so I think it's reasonable. Here, you hire someone to do after-school tuition, and also pay for extra-curricular activities like football, squash and gymnastics. At boarding school, these activities are all included in the cost."

The front of the prospectus for Gordonstoun boarding school in Scotland features a photograph of the school's 80-foot sail boat, Ocean Spirit of Moray. Gordonstoun also boasts a rifle range, golf course and squash courts.

"It's the out-of-classroom offer which is the reason why British education still stands up so strongly," says the Gordonstoun's principal, Simon Reid.

As well as Prince Charles, members of the Al Maktoum family have attended the £34,000 a year school, and these days, wealthy Omanis count among the one- third of Gordonstoun students who arrive from overseas.

The wide range of activities available at such boarding schools, as well as their focus on discipline, is why Thomas Iype, an Indian engineer living in Al Ain, would like his teenage sons Eric and Brian to consider such an education. But Brian has other ideas.

"I prefer to be in the family environment, because I enjoy spending time with my parents - and I get to work with my friends here in Al Ain," says the 16 year-old.

As well as appealing to expat parents whose jobs involve extensive travel, plenty of Emirati families also opt for a boarding education.

The Emirati Lubna Qassim, who is the group chief general counsel and company secretary of Emirates NBD, credits her former Shrewsbury boarding school with giving her a strong work ethic.

"My father invested in the education of his children and got huge returns - he once said it was the best investment he ever made," she says.

Ms Qassim was sent to boarding school in the early 1990s, when she was 15.

"It was unheard of for a young Emirati girl to go abroad by herself back then. It wasn't easy for my mum, because she had to deal with all the calls of the women of the community. But I was ready to fly. I'm a big advocate for private boarding school education in Britain. It is world class."

[email protected]

Follow The National's Business section on Twitter

from Personal Finance RSS feed - The National http://www.thenational.ae/business/personal-finance/the-value-of-boarding-school-for-children-of-uae-expats

#Personal Finance RSS feed - The National

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dxbplanet-blog · 7 years

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Dubai's theme parks: The most elaborate sandboxes on earth

You are about to board the fastest roller coaster on the planet, the 150-mph Formula Rossa, the pride of Ferrari World Abu Dhabi theme park _ where pride, like most everything else in this desert architectural playground, comes super-sized.

But before you’re launched from the confines of a glistening indoor pavilion that spans the length of seven football fields, there is the vital matter of adjusting your racing goggles to keep the bugs out of your eyes.

The first theme park in the universe devoted to a luxury Italian sports car, Ferrari World is also home to the brand-new Flying Aces coaster, which boasts not only the world’s steepest cable lift and tallest loop but presumably the most fearless riders on earth.

Studio Central re-creates an old New York set on a Hollywood back lot and provides entry to the four other zones in Motiongate.

Not a car fan? No worries, because Ferrari World is but one spoke in many wheels.

Formerly the exclusive domain of Southern California and Central Florida, world-class theme parks are now springing up at roller-coaster speeds in the United Arab Emirates.

Where once stood sand dunes, skilfully engineered immersive environments now allow visitors to interact with internationally familiar pop-culture icons. I

Included in the mix: Smurfs, dinosaurs, Marvel superheroes, protagonists from the Cartoon Network, “Hunger Games,” “Ghostbusters,” “Shrek,” “Kung Fu Panda,” “Hotel Transylvania” and, the jewel in the crown, blockbuster Hindi movies.

instagram

“We’ve got something for everyone, from ages 5 to 100,” said John Hallenbeck, general manager of the Hollywood-inspired Motiongate Dubai, which welcomed its first guests in December.

Mostly made up of family groups from the Arab states, the audibly enthusiastic crowds – some 5,000 to 6,000 people a day, a park rep told me – tend to filter in not first thing in the morning, as in American parks, but starting late in the afternoon, after the midday heat.

Talk about an oasis.

Adjacent to the 2,000-acre Motiongate, as part of a $2.85 billion resort complex collectively known as Dubai Parks, are the new Bollywood Parks, Legoland and Legoland Water Park.

Connecting them all is Riverland, a retail/dining area that also accommodates the 500 rooms of the Polynesian-themed Lapita Hotel, along with the construction sheds for the region’s first-ever Six Flags park, due in 2019.

“Theme parks are new to the local culture,” said Hallenbeck, a Wisconsin native and a seasoned executive of Universal Studios internationally. “People may get in line and not know what they are in for.”

What they find inside Motiongate are five separate, tree-shaded zones set to different themes. While one remains under scaffolding in anticipation of a late spring reveal, eventually the park is poised to offer 27 rides, five of them roller coasters.

The fastest, the smooth-as-silk 60-mph Madagascar: Mad Pursuit, is now operational and, like Disney’s Space Mountain, runs its course entirely in the dark.

Among the park’s distinctions: It’s the first anywhere to unite rival studios (Columbia Pictures, Lionsgate and DreamWorks, the last of which is sheltered inside a giant soundstage); the first to exploit both “The Smurfs” and “Hunger Games” franchises; and the first in the region to offer a water rapids ride, the Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs River Expedition. And, yes: The ride vehicles are designed to carefully contain the flowing Arabian robes worn by some guests.

Far less sprawling, but abundantly charming, is the neighbouring Bollywood Parks Dubai, which tips its turban to the Mumbai film industry’s exaggerated escapist fare. Outstanding among the more than a dozen exotic attractions is the Lagaan: Champaner Cricket Carnival, a robust motion-simulator adventure based on a 2001 Hindi sports drama.

(All ride narratives are in English, though safety instructions are also delivered in Arabic.) “Bollywood is a lot about shows, and India is a lot about food,” said general manager Thomas Jellum, emphasizing that his park, where at any given moment a live musical number breaks out on the grounds, places human experience above mechanical rides.

In fact, a planned-for roller coaster remains in the blueprints stage, though Bollywood does boast its own pulsating landmark _ the 850-seat Rajmahal Theatre, home to the elaborate stage extravaganza “Jaan-e-Jigar,” a musical melodrama about twin brothers.

“Disney has its castle, and we have the Rajmahal,” Jellum said of the Taj Mahal-like entertainment venue. “Inside is a full Broadway musical, with a cast of 70.” That’s actually about three times the size of Broadway’s largest cast, but Bollywood is about extravagance – and “Jaan-e-Jigar” requires a separate ticket for its nighttime performances.

“This is very much an evening park,” Jellum noted. Elsewhere in Dubai, the stand-alone IMG Worlds of Adventure is an anytime park, given that its record-setting 1.5 million-square-foot expanse is completely enclosed, at times making it seem that you’re inside an enormous shopping mall.

Open since August and named for its co-chairmen, Ilyas and Mustafa Galadari, the $1 billion IMG houses rides fashioned around Spider-Man, Thor, the Hulk, the Avengers and even the Powerpuff Girls, not to mention a haunted hotel maze restricted to those 15 and older, an upscale Iron Man restaurant and, in its prehistoric Lost Valley zone (one of four), the aptly named Predator coaster. IMG Worlds of Adventure also has huge ambitions, seeking to attract 4.5 million visitors in its first year.

Already, plans have been announced to build an adjoining park with nine more zones, including those for Pokemon, Barbie and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.

To be called IMG Worlds of Legends, it is intended to span two million square feet.

Like all of the other parks in the region, it should help set the stage for Dubai’s Expo 2020, the world’s fair and tourism booster that the ruler of Dubai, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid al-Maktoum, hopes will do for his already popular emirate what the 1893 Columbian Exposition once did for a certain town in Illinois.

IF YOU GO

Getting there: From the tallest building in the world, Burj Khalifa, in central Dubai, take the metro rail to the Ibn Battuta station and then taxi to the Dubai Parks main entrance for Motiongate, Bollywood Parks and Legoland – about a 45-minute trip.

IMG Worlds of Adventure, is half an hour away by cab.

Ferrari World, on man-made Yas Island in Abu Dhabi, takes roughly an hour by taxi.