Wings and dip... (No pun intended)

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Abijit Singh

1/24/20242 min read

Flyboarding at Sea breacher Water Sports was a truly unique and exhilarating experience. After gearing up and hopping onto a jet ski, my flyboard instructor guided me out to the beach on a jet ski. The windy conditions made it challenging, but I was the only one stupid enough to flyboard that day. This meant I had the opportunity to take my time learning, even if it meant falling countless times. I really thought when booking this it would be easy...

I got to the stall and found just a couple of guys chowing down on some fish. One of them, in their super manly French accent, said, "Put your stuff in the locker and go get changed in there," while pointing at this shed-looking thing in the distance. I didn't even ask if I was in the right place, I just started walking and decided 'Let's listen to the stranger and go get changed'. The safety of Dubai, ey?

My instructor, a muscular French man, was both supportive and entertaining. Actually more so, entertained. He constantly shouted, 'knees straight' and 'you almost got it,' while using the jet ski to position me in the water for the perfect take-off. There’s something about an African origin French man laughing at you at the top of his lungs whilst you flop like a fish that just… humbles you. He was having more fun than me until at one point, I managed to reach a height of fifteen feet, but as they say, 'the higher you fly, the harder you fall.'

The waves added an extra element of fun to the experience, making each fall a memorable splash. Despite the challenging weather, we continued flyboarding for a while since I was the only one brave enough to take on the waves. It seemed like my instructor was thoroughly enjoying himself, even taking a snack break while giggling at me belly flop into the Arabian Gulf. "Well done!".
Having tested my balance - which was bad - and determination, the thrill, slight embarrassment and sense of accomplishment were worth every fall.

I walked back up to the main road and started searching for nearby restaurants. Usually, I'm not one to openly express my love for fast food, this place I found had such an incredible vibe. It was called Buffalo Wild Wings, and let me tell you, it had a basketball theme going on that gave it such an interesting atmosphere. The moment I stepped inside; I was surrounded by a basketball lover's paradise. Signed jerseys were proudly displayed on the walls, various basketballs and trophies were scattered around, and the wallpaper itself was an iconic piece of basketball art. I must admit, the attention to detail in creating that basketball atmosphere really impressed me. It added a whole new level of excitement to the dining experience. Plus, being a sports fan myself, I couldn't help but appreciate the nod to the game. So, if you're ever in the mood for some tasty food and a unique basketball-themed ambiance, Buffalo Wild Wings is worth checking out. It's more than just your average fast-food joint.