The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
When I speak with anyone unfamiliar with the area, they are wide-eyed with the absurd thought of Saudi Arabia for their next holiday destination. “Is it safe?” followed by. “Why on earth would I go to Saudi Arabia?” Or “I have no desire to see that part of the world.” When I tell people that Saudi is one of my top favorite destinations I say, “Still that look?” The country offers pure Arabian animals you have never seen and music you have never heard. The country is ripe with noble mountain ranges and rich valleys. You can ride though the desert from the red sea to the Arabian gulf, passing in and out from metropolitan amusement to the peaceful and serene lands of the ancient times. Exciting, yes? Let me tell you a bit more.
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I find a certain calmness in the Kingdom that I have not found outside of Saudi Arabia. From the airport through the cities and towns are good-natured people that are livening by kindness and humbleness. Being from the deep south with a traditionally large family I find that I relate to Saudis more than others in the region. Really just the clothing and the décor are the major differences, other than that they are large families gathering around for good food and good times!
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The people that I interacted with were excited to have me there. To share their culture, music and always a smile. Having an understanding of the history turns Saudi into a kaleidoscope of wonder. I am fascinated by the cultivation of the country, the bond of the people and the vivaciousness for life that you find in every age and background. Just like most countries there is a diverse population of economic and social frameworks. Take away whatever misconceptions you have about Saudi Arabia. When you have not experienced it from your own eyes and ears its best to leave the stories for those that have. And even then, you must be heedful from the mind of the speaker! Every visit I have had to Saudi Arabia was a wonderful delight. One thing every Saudi has told me is how grateful they are for their government as they offer much monetary and educational support for their people’s well-being.
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Passage to the East
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On a short flight I was presented with a complete hardy snack. It was pleasant surprise with a warm nicely seasoned chicken wrap (The veggie option was just as tasty.) With a side of pound cake, apple juice and water- well done Saudi Airlines. The seats are spacious and one thing that I really love other than the pocket change for the flight is the Soothing atmosphere set in the cabin before takeoff in local Arabic from the public announcement system. As someone who has a healthy fear of flying, I can tell you it is calming to hear a prayer of humbleness for protection before taking off in an aluminum tube some thirty thousand plus feet in the air. That and the fact that Saudi Airlines is known to be the best when it comes to maintaining the aircraft for optimal safety. During my experience the cabin crew from front to back, all the way to the pilots were genuinely friendly, making all aspects of this on-board journey with Saudi Airlines one that I would without thought make again.
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There are many sensational hotels within the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Given my experience the one closest to my heart is Boudl hotels & resorts. It was the perfect accommodation. The rooms are spacious, the kitchen fully equipped and the separate living area provides a cozy fondness. It is a proper apartment hotel which is awesome for a multitude of reasons. While it is not the luxury brand of the group the Boudl is a fantastic option for those conscience spenders that look for quality and affordability. No matter how long your journey your can rent this room and get your work done, re-energize in tranquility or tune out through media entertainment.
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My second choice would be the Mövenpick, as they have excellent in room dinning for that lazy day along your journey. Last but not least I must mention Al Hamra located in Olaya, Riyadh. Try to get the room facing the main road for extra warmth in the winter months. It does get cold and unfortunately not all the hotel have heating. It is really disappointing for me to stay with a top-line hotel to experience crummy and rude service, bad food, a cold room or a lack of warm water (even if it is at 3 am!). I know if I stay at these places all of my needs are met with a memorable experience and no extra unwanted annoyances.
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The food is something that I believe the majority of the world is missing out on. I would compare it to southern style or soul food if you will. From savory meats to juicy vegetables, finished by succulent sweets; a traditional Saudi meal will have you hooked! Oh yes, they have amazing sea food as well. If you stay at the Al Hamra in Riyadh be sure to go two buildings down to Al Bahsaly Palace restaurant. The decor is marvelous and the food will have you going back for thirds. They offer local dishes, grills and any fresh juice you can think of. The meat in Saudi Arabia is good quality. This has to do with the way in which meat is prepared, in the Islamic Halal manner.
My favorite sweet shop is Anoosh! I do not know how they make their cookies but hands down it is the best I have ever tired! It is warm, gooey and slightly flaky with a minimal crunch. They are so good I do not feel guilty to eat them, just satisfaction. Lastly, I would suggest ordering a box of gourmet finger sandwich for your adventure from LA Viviane. I recently had them on my last visit to Khobar and it was heaven! It is not just the fresh ingredients; the bread is light and fluffy. Try the savory eggplant. You will not be disappointed. See the gallery for pictures.
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Feasting on Tradition
Taverns of The Arabia
From the Sand to the Sea
The west cost meets the shore of the Red Sea. It is home to a beautiful array of marine life for the diving enthusiast. Or simply enjoy a possible whale siting from one of the many beautiful cornishes. For the ventures take the coastal highway from Jeddah to the mountain ranges in the south close to Abha.
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Crossing over to the east cost you will find yourself looking out to the Arabian Gulf, the suspected region of the fertile crescent. Bahrain is a 45-minute drive from Khobar. While Saudi can keep you entertained with new sites and experiences for months, the ease of traveling to Bahrain is worth the day trip that delivers an exhilarating sweetener to your Gulf region experience.
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Currently Saudi Arabia is working to expand its tourism and is adding an array of island off the west cost for an unbelievable water world island resort and if I know anything about Saudi it will be spectacular. Once this is added to the mix the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia will have everything to offer for an ideal holiday. Bonus added is Egypt, where Cairo is a two-hour flight from Jeddah or a ferry into any Sinai port for all the thrill seekers!
Compositions from a Pinnacle
The mountains take you above the clouds to witness sunsets that melt away any thought other than that of pure beauty and gratitude. From the north to the south there are ranges and valleys that holds natures untouched artistry. Along your way to the top you will find tea stands offering a selection of local and foreign teas and chai. If you make your way to the south, I highly recommend tying the herbal mountain tea. It is mixed with local mint leaves special to the region. If you like Moroccan tea you will travel back for the unique way it excites your pallet. I have not tried a tea that satisfies in quite the same way. The monkeys are cute and also assertive. Be a bit cautious and if you can not help but to share a snack, be sure to throw it far; they will chase you! Don’t be alarmed just be smart and cautious. I took pictures from a distance and inside of the car.
Each of its major cities has its own unique character and marvels. Wide open spaces with multi lane highways, intriguing architectural structures from massive villas to cloud-breaching skyscrapers. As much entertainment as you can find throughout the cities from Amusement parks to a brilliant firework performance put on weekly at the Faisaliah Tower. With just a short drive you will see the concrete slowly disappear and either you will be at the shore or amidst monumentally beautiful plateaus in the mystical desert hills. I would personally suggest a full Saudi acquaintance. Hitting all three major cities Riyadh (capital), Jeddah (West coast, red sea) and Khobar (East coast, Arabian Gulf, bridge to The Kingdom of Bahrain).
In my Humble Opinion
Book a flight to this enchanting land of adventure. Drive humbly through the desert, enjoying your own imagination of past oasis, trials and winning defeats. Hear the old stories passed down from thousands through years in this antiquity rich region. Let the sounds of the tabla and oud bring forth a magical connection to a time that has nearly faded away. Eat traditional arabian spiced meats and veggies with rice’s and appetizing condiments. If you get the opportunity eat with your hands, getting immersed in the old and new ways of the land.
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When you are taking off back to wherever it is you call home you will have a grin pleasurably cross your face as you will know that a piece of your heart will always remain in this beautiful land of great culture and heritage. And as the warmth of your observations washes over your body, you will radiate a bit different as you have now danced in the sands of time and you will forever hold that memory deep within your heart.
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It is a great gift that Saudi Arabia has opened its doors to those seekers, dreamers and doers. My request is that you go, encounter the grandiose that the country cannot help but to offer. Be mindful of the beauty and purity of the land and that it was made a choice for us to have the opportunity to experience the the Kingdom and all that it offers of its bountiful past and flourishing achievements in this time historic change.
Go with Respect. Laugh, Live and Prosper.