According to Ed Waugh, who designed the electronics for the water sampling device, the trials are "a useful way of getting a feel for the task".

BBC: Key tests in search for life in frozen Antarctic lake

The Center for Y2K and Society suggests that Americans who do feel the need to prepare use this guideline: store one gallon of water per person, per day, for 10 days.

CNN: Y2K fears open flood of bottled water sales

The reason for Al Ain's oasis-like feel is its natural water supply.

BBC: Al Ain: The desert��s oasis

Both coalition partners feel the need to create some clear blue water between them by redefining what they stand for.

ECONOMIST: Germany