Unveiling Iran: A Journey Through Time and Hospitality Introduction Iran—a land often misunderstood, yet rich with beauty, history, and warmth—took me on a journey that exceeded every expectation. From the rose-scented gardens of Shiraz to the intricate tilework of Isfahan’s mosques, and from bustling bazaars to serene desert landscapes, this trip was a profound reminder that true travel is about connection and discovery beyond headlines. Day 1: Arrival in Tehran – The Beating Heart of Modern Iran Touching down in Tehran, I was met with a dynamic city teeming with contrasts. Towering skyscrapers sit beside centuries-old mosques, and the snow-capped Alborz Mountains offer a stunning backdrop. My first stop was the Golestan Palace , a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its mirrored halls and colorful mosaics showcased Persian architecture at its finest. That night, I explored Tajrish Bazaar , sampling saffron ice cream and chatting with friendly locals curious about where I was...
Journey Through Saudi Arabia: A Land of Heritage, Mystery, and Modern Marvels
Introduction
Saudi Arabia is a land of ancient wonders, majestic deserts, sacred sites, and modern marvels. Once closed to international tourism, the Kingdom is now opening its doors wider than ever. A trip to Saudi Arabia offers a unique blend of rich Islamic heritage, untouched natural beauty, and ambitious futuristic cities. From the holy city of Makkah to the futuristic NEOM, every step is a journey through time.
Day 1: Arrival in Riyadh – The Heart of the Kingdom
Our journey began in Riyadh, the vibrant capital of Saudi Arabia. Towering skyscrapers sit alongside historical landmarks, giving us a taste of both past and future. We visited the Kingdom Centre Tower, followed by the National Museum, where the story of Arabia unfolds in captivating exhibits.
Highlights:
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Kingdom Centre Sky Bridge
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National Museum of Saudi Arabia
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Al Masmak Fortress
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Al Zal Market (souvenirs and local crafts)
Day 2: Edge of the World – A Natural Wonder
A must-see just outside Riyadh is the Edge of the World (Jebel Fihrayn), part of the Tuwaiq escarpment. The dramatic cliffs and sweeping views made it one of the most breathtaking landscapes we’d ever seen. The hike, while moderate, was absolutely worth it. The silence and vastness of the desert felt spiritual.
Tips:
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Bring lots of water and a hat
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Best visited at sunrise or sunset
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Go with a local guide for safety
Day 3: Madinah – The City of the Prophet
Next, we flew to Madinah, the second-holiest city in Islam. Non-Muslims can't enter some areas, but there's still plenty to explore respectfully. We marveled at the Al-Masjid an-Nabawi, admired the tranquil Quba Mosque, and visited the Uhud Mountain, a key historical site in Islamic history.
Highlights:
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Al-Masjid an-Nabawi (Prophet’s Mosque)
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Quba Mosque (first mosque in Islam)
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Dates Market of Madinah
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Uhud Battlefield
Day 4: AlUla – Timeless Beauty in the Desert
One of the most magical places in Saudi Arabia is AlUla, home to the UNESCO World Heritage site Hegra (Madain Saleh). Carved into red sandstone cliffs, it's often compared to Petra in Jordan. The region also boasts Elephant Rock, ancient tombs, and the sleekly designed Maraya Concert Hall – the world’s largest mirrored building.
Highlights:
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Hegra Archaeological Site
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Dadan and Jabal Ikmah
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Elephant Rock at sunset
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AlUla Old Town
Day 5: Jeddah – Gateway to the Red Sea
Our final stop was Jeddah, a bustling port city with deep Islamic and commercial roots. We walked through Al-Balad, the old town with coral-stone buildings and colorful souks. The Jeddah Corniche offered serene views of the Red Sea, and we watched the King Fahd Fountain, the tallest of its kind in the world.
Highlights:
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Al-Balad Historic District
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Jeddah Corniche
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King Fahd Fountain
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Floating Mosque (Al-Rahma Mosque)
Cultural Tips for Traveling in Saudi Arabia
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Dress Code: Modest clothing is required in public; women should wear abayas in most regions.
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Respect Local Customs: Public displays of affection are not allowed. Prayer times are observed strictly.
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Food: Try traditional dishes like kabsa, mutabbaq, and Saudi coffee with dates.
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Language: Arabic is the official language, though English is commonly spoken in cities.
Conclusion
A trip to Saudi Arabia is more than a vacation—it's a voyage into a culture that has remained beautifully preserved yet is rapidly evolving. From ancient tombs and Islamic holy cities to ultra-modern cityscapes and sweeping deserts, Saudi Arabia invites travelers to explore its stories, secrets, and soul. If you're seeking an off-the-beaten-path destination with authentic experiences, Saudi Arabia is ready to surprise you.
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