Geriatric Gapper

Swiss Christmas Market, Abu Dhabi 2018

I can't believe it is Swiss Christmas Market time in Abu Dhabi already! I can't think where this year has gone. It seems to have passed by in a flash.

I accompanied a group of the Expat Ladies, Abu Dhabi, to the Beach Rotana hotel where we walked around the market and then had a Christmas High Tea together.

The Swiss Christmas Market is where locals and expats can share sell their handicrafts, and this year I spotted some really interesting ones.

These products are made entirely from recycled material. Their message is: "When advertising posters are at the end of their campaign and destined to be destroyed, Etuix recycles them, transforming them into purses, bags, backpacks, wallets, shoes and belts." Their motto is "Don't spend to destroy...Invest to create." You can find out more from etuix.com.

Here is their General Manager, Matteo Boffa, showing a backpack made from a PVC advertising poster.

This lovely lady in the next door booth was selling her own handmade products.

I then came across Gunjan Shrivastrava selling her amazing art. 

Her wonderful pictures are made by rolling strips of cloured paper, and glueing them to her base. It must take hours of dedication to achieve these beautiful works of art.

I just loved this couple selling camel milk soap. 

These two turned out to be South Africans enjoying their time here in Abu Dhabi.

Apparently, camel milk is especially high in valuable Alpha-Hydroxy acids, which plump the skin and help to smooth fine lines. It is also effective at repairing damaged tissue. I just had to buy some. If you want to know more, visit the camelsoapfactory.com.

After having experienced the wonderful offerings of the Swiss Christmas Market, It was time for our high tea.

Here is the group of Expat Ladies, who I am delighted to call friends...

...and here is one of the tiered trays of Christmas goodies.

Although there were only eight of us, we had 4 of these, and, as there was so much on offer, some managed to take home a doggie bag. I hope I get to experience next year's Swiss Christmas Market. They are always such fun.

And no Swiss anything wouldn't be complete without Swiss chocolate.

Merry Christmas to everyone.

Elizabeth Coughlan