THE OIL SERIES, DAY 2
SAUDI ARABIA
A trip to the edge of the world. Besides wanting to see what the locals are like, I am most looking forward to visiting the Edge of the World in Saudi Arabia.
A DUTCH GUY FELL LAST MONTH, THE AMBULANCE ARRIVED IN 3 HOURS.
Furthermore, the photos and my friend Jenna’s two-year stint here completely sold it to me. Additionally, I’m meeting Christy, a friend with whom I roomed up in Armenia just last month. She currently lives two hours north of Saudi and said she would join for the trip. Therefore, I am looking forward to possibly getting a local’s insight.
DRIFTING
Therefore, I opted for Ghazi Tours, and fortunately, they were fantastic. In fact, they were so good that I agreed to write them a positive review on TripAdvisor. 😆 Who even does that anymore? The drive was around one hour on the road and a further 45 minutes on the dirt road, where the driver took it upon himself to do some drifting!
At one point, we were allowed to get out and hang onto the jeep. I believe the driver was the brother of Ghazi, the owner, which probably explained why no one else was taking these risks.
AMPHITHEATRE
From a distance, the flat landscape rises abruptly into cliffs. Arriving at the bottom of the walk you knew it was going to be impressive. Anyone is fit to do the walk as it’s a fairly gentle incline with steps. If you are afraid of heights there are always trails away from the edge.
I’m not going to mess around here – it’s dangerous. One trip or a slip and you’re gone so be careful how you walk, taking photos and generally just always be aware of what is around you.
You obtain the best views at the far part of the walk and also during sunset. There is something beautiful about a hazy Middle Eastern sunset.
LOCALS
Predominantly, locals populate this place and they truly love it here, and some even venture right up to the cliff edge, whip out the carpet, tea and snacks and just sit and enjoy it. They also love to chat to the tourists so don’t be shy in saying hello and creating some conversation.
As dusk approached, we made our way to camp. Which is another way of saying, ‘Everyone finds a spot in the desert to sit down, BBQ, and enjoy some entertainment.’
Initially, the microphone was passed around for everyone to introduce themselves. Then a few people were made to get up and do a talent that they learned in their own country, its all good light hearted fun here.
After food and Arabic dancing, we returned to Riyadh. I got ousted from Granada Mall for wearing shorts.
NEXT UP
Deera square (chop chop square) where current day executions happen! Click to read.
SAFE TRAVELS, DS x
142/229
This post is part of The Oil Series, click to explore or for episode 1 click here.
To watch the video of my trip, head to my highlights on my Instagram.
