Posted on 12/16/2010 3:48:27 PM PST by Diana in Wisconsin
A high-end hotel in the United Arab Emirates has decorated its lobby with what it says is the world's most expensive Christmas tree.
The Emirates Palace in Abu Dhabi will be asking the Guinness Book of World Records to confirm the tree — valued at $11 million US — is, in fact, the world's priciest.
The tree itself costs $10,000, BBC reports, but jewelry draping its branches is what pushes the value into the millions. The 13-metre tree is covered in necklaces, watches and bracelets with over 181 diamonds, pearls, emeralds, sapphires and other stones.
While the UAE is predominantly Muslim, the hotel attracts guests from around the world and doesn't think having a Christmas tree will offend anyone.
The hotel's general manager, Hans Olbertz, told the BBC the tree was the marketing team's idea.
The hotel is known for its expensive marketing schemes, including a $1-million Valentine's Day package and the world's first gold vending machine.
Now THAT is gutsy! Try doing that in ‘The People’s Republik of Madistan’ and see where it gets ya, LOL!
So... no hymns, no prayer, no eggnog, and no kissing under the mistletoe. Just lots of money. They seem to have picked up on the modern way to do Christmas.
Wait a minute! Christmas trees are banned in parts of govt in USA but advertised for real in UAE? Something humbug going on here.
Thought this sort of thing isn’t cool with the Muslims.
It’s a trap don’t fall for it
The Muslim immigrant who tried to blow up a car bomb at a Pacific Northwest Christmas tree lighting ceremony recently certainly thought so.
you can put up a Christmas tree in a Muslim run Gulf state, but not in Saudi...
the Gulf states are monarchies, but they are Arabs descended from traders, and a lot more tolerant of non Muslims (although if you are gay, keep your affection private).
I’ve visited that hotel. Quite a place. As you can see from the photo gold is the prevailing color. It’s called a “seven star” hotel.
The next time you need to visit, I’d be happy to schlepp your luggage.
FreepMail me, LOL! :)
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