2019 - FIP Abu Dhabi: Day 6 - Mon 23 Sep: Abi Dhabi

29 - 41 deg C (79 - 29 % humidity)

Another long breakfast was had, not so we could eat lots, rather to discuss stuff. Breakfast finishes at 1030 and we left just before that time. I attended my first round of presentations today during the lunchtime session as we had one of our members giving a presentation on refugees and the challenges faced, not only by them, but by the pharmacists trying to provide health care to them. Whilst the messages were not new, it is a great reminder that although we think our lives are hard at times, it is nothing compared to what these people are living through.

Late afternoon saw us attending the Monash University reception which was a chance to catch up with many attendees other than MEPS. I get an invite every year to this reception an am usually unable to attend as it clashes with the MEPS Meet and Greet. I was able to attend this year because the meet and greet did not start until 7pm which gave us ample opportunity to mingle.

We then made our way over to the Armed Forces Officers Club and Hotel which has to be seen to be believed. As both an Officers Mess and Hotel, it is beyond comprehension; fully OTT. We were hosted in the Garden Room, which is inside the Mess, complete with plants, waterfalls, etc and yes, aircon! The ladies room has to be seen to be believed – see photo. The food and drinks (mocktails, water and tea) were pleasant and plentiful. It was a later than expected night due to the last taxi (I just happened to be in the last one) arriving about 45 minutes after the second-last one left.