DUBAI: One hundred dirhams to spend in the UAE for the holidays is not really a shoe string budget, especially for those wanting to get away from the city and enjoy nature.
You’re hundred dirhams will go a very long way joining the activities of the various OFW organizations engaged in anything from cycling to mountain biking or trekking.
This, especially considering that the weeks ahead are best for enjoying the cool mountain air and a hike.
Among these groups is the UAE Mountain Biking (MTB) Jumeirah headed by Engr. Frankie Boton, among others, which counts over 5,000 members and regularly conducts outdoor events, the latest of which is the Fujairah Enduro Race hosted by Fujairah Adventures and slated for Nov. 30.
It’s mountain trekking for this group if they are not cycling at all. You can visit their Facebook page to learn more about scheduled activities.
“December mag-start na kaming mag-mountain climbing/trekking para mas sure na mas malamig na sya,” Boton said.
He added, “Wala fee. Sa mga walang sariling car, ay yung transpo lang ang sharing namin kasi sa foods naman ay kanya kanyang dala or potluck.”
Boton said they usually go to Ras Al Khaimah’s Jebel Jais – the UAE’s tallest mountain which is a rugged, wind-swept terrain with spectacular breath-taking scenery and a number of established camping spots.
One can also organize a Bedouin-style camping in the wadis.
Another group is the Filipino Mountaineers Federation (FMF), which was formed in 2013 and also has a Facebook page where updates and posts abut regularly conducts outdoor activities can be found.
“Actually,” said Roy Antipala FMF vice president, “every weekend kami umaakyat.”
He said the group is organizing its 2nd All Women Climb and will announce details soon.
He said FMF is into rock climbing and related adventures. “We really don’t feel comfortable taking fees. Ang money involved lang ay yung transpo at foods ng participants. If may mag-pledge then we are happy to accept it,” Antipala said.
He said FMF’s activities are mostly in the Hajar Mountains and Ras Al Khaimah. “We have already climbed the highest mountain in the Arabian Peninsula which is Jebel Shams, a part of the Hajar mountain range,” Antipala said.
“Kung sino man ang gustong mag-join or sumama sa among mga climb you may contact us or follow our Facebook page,” he added. (Photos grabbed from the Facebook page of Roy Antipala, vice president of the Filipino Mountaineers Federation and from the FMF page)
