We were all ravenous after the long but exhilarating camel ride, so we gathered eagerly around the low table and dug into the feast before us. Bowls of hot, peppery lentil soup warmed our hands, platters of roasted lamb with mint filled the air with savory richness, and mounds of spiced basmati rice studded with raisins and slivered almonds tempted us with every bite. The flavors were so bold and satisfying that it was no surprise to see nearly every plate scraped clean within minutes.
Just as the last bites disappeared, the trill of a reed instrument floated through the camp, accompanied by the delicate tinkling of bells. Exotic music filled the air, and soon the source of the sound revealed itself. Three beautiful belly dancers appeared, swaying their limbs to the seductive rhythm. The
