It started out as a simple click on the "yes" button to attend another Crest of Dubai event: The opportunity to watch one of the biggest games of the 2009 World Football calendar. Manchester United and FC Barcelona meet for the UEFA Champions League final being held in Rome's Stadio Olimpico.

There was a secret location; no details of the hosts; no mention of dining ... but as member after member logged on to check the full details on the day of the match, all was revealed. Meet in 'Cabana'...Signature Villa...Limo Transfer...5 Star dining; the excitement was tangible, and the buzz was 'How on earth do they do it?'

Red carpet treatment was an understatement! A quick drink in Cabana and then ushered out to your transport-a tough choice of either a Rolls Royce or a deluxe stretch Limo to the venue as this event suddenly shifted up a gear.

The Palm is graced with people used to corporate hospitality and VIP events, but this compared with the very finest. It has become a bit of a Crest of Dubai tradition now to find gracious hosts who open up their home with such an inviting atmosphere, but something one of us takes for granted.

The scene was incredible; 20 square meters of carpet on the beach, adorned with matching cushions; meticulously laid out. Tables, beautifully presented with all the trimmings. Personal chef , waiting and bar staff, all arranged facing the pool and the largest projector screen imaginable to watch the game ... nothing was left to chance.

It's difficult to see where the credit for these events should lie. The hosts themselves who had tickets to fly to Rome to see the match, yet gave that up to host this event? The team at Crest of Dubai who once again excelled and made everyone feel that "extra bit special". Or was it the people who "clicked on"" to attend? Some knew each other, many had never met before – yet, we all shared a common bond. Was it the football? As much as I would like to say it was – I have my doubts. What we shared was that moment, that evening, that event ... there was laughter, joking, great fun and I don’t think I saw anyone who felt uncomfortable, left out or lonely. No matter whether you had arrived on your own, or came with friends. On this night, at this time, at this place and with these people ... we were all connected.

What of the Match..? oh yeah of course ... that was why we were their right?

If you're going to win the Champions League, Barcelona showed the way to do it, and deserved their victory. Some fans held high hopes for Cristiano Ronaldo to lead the Reds to Victory, others pinned their hopes on Lionel Messi. In these finals, the edge is to get your toes out in front and stay there. Barcelona did that with Samuel Eto's goal after 10 minutes... the match was over when Messi rounded off the scoring in the 70th minute and Cristiano Ronaldo and the Reds were kept at bay as Barcelona went on to their 2:0 Victory.

Another fantastic event drew to a close as everyone was once again whisked off in limousines already looking forward to next year!

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