TRAVEL OFTEN. EAT WELL. LIVE YOUR BEST LIFE
Riyadh, the capital city of Saudi Arabia is a city of contrasts—ancient fortresses and gleaming glass skyscrapers; traditional society shaped by Bedouin culture and firm Islamic beliefs mixed with a modern, youthful vibe and Western influences from ubiquitous fast food joints to luxurious shopping malls.…
There is something magical about waking up with the rising sun, the colors of the sunrise reflecting on the majestic Nile river, the fishermen with their first catch on the misty river, the mesmerizing sound of the Muslim call of prayer in the background. A…
Saudi Arabia’s desert landscape is surprisingly diverse and you can find beautiful natural wonders throughout the kingdom. Edge of the World, two hours from Riyadh, is an awe-inspiring sight that offers dizzying views from the 300-meter-high rock formation to the endless valley below. The untouched…
The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is an iconic site in Muscat, Oman, and dominates the city skyline. It is surrounded by beautifully manicured gardens. The mosque is beautifully lit at night, a mesmerizing sight from the main highway going through the city. The imposing structure…
During a recent trip to Bahrain, I visited the Al Fateh Grand Mosque, one of the major landmarks in Manama. When traveling in the Middle East it is fascinating to see the stunning and extraordinary architecture of these places of worship, whether regal or more…
Al Bustan Palace, a Ritz-Carlton Hotel is Oman’s finest—a tranquil oasis between the Al Hajar mountains and the Sea of Oman in the outskirts of Muscat. The beachfront retreat boasts elegantly manicured gardens, a private sandy beach, several pools, four restaurants and a luxurious Six…
Saudi Arabian grocery stores are well stocked with international foods, fast food is ubiquitous and very popular, and ethnic restaurants abound. But what are the traditional Saudi dishes like? Saudi cuisine is strongly influenced by the kingdom’s nomadic past. The Bedouin tribes were goat and…
Arabic coffee (gahwa) and dates are a symbol of Arabian hospitality and generosity. Coffee and dates are offered to greet guests everywhere from homes to restaurants and hotel lobbies to airplanes. Bedouins brewed their coffee over a simple fireplace dug into the ground. Over time, this was…
When visiting Bahrain, tasting the local cuisine is a must. This small island country is a melting pot of different cultures and traditions. Yet, it has its own indigenous food culture that has been preserved over centuries. Most of the traditional dishes include rice, fish,…
