I arrived at JFK last night to queue up for Saudia Airlines and was redirected a few times. Everyone thought I was lost. Single white women just dont go to Saudi Arabia. I was the only Western person on the entire flight so I was a bit self conscious. I was dressed modestly by most standards. Leggings with riding boots, a kaftan and a scarf that I got in Jordan but from the looks I was getting I felt naked and very aware of my exposed forearms. Then I remembered wait, this is MY home, MY country and I can dress as I please. The man assigned to the seat next to me swapped with a woman so he wasnt next to me. He was very curious about me though and kept asking me questions about why I was going there. Another man stood up in flight pushing his hairy belly in my face as he rummaged through the overhead compartment. The first time I flew to Saudi I was shocked to see men shrouded in what appeared to be a beach towel or white blanket. I realized later as I saw more of them that they were pilgrims making their Hajj to the Holy City of Makkah (Mecca). This picture below is from the inflight magazine. I didnt want to be rude and take pics of people on the plane. The city I am living in, Jeddah, a resort city on the Red Sea, is the gateway to Makkah. The airport is packed with Muslim pilgrims from Africa, Turkey, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Asia and the Middle East. It is fascinating to me to be immersed in a culture so different from my own. Ive become so adaptable to any situation having spent time with tribes in Africa, living in Chile and the Middle East and traveling all over the world. I thrive outside my comfort zone. I am safely back in my princess palace. Im a bit more prepared this time. I know my way around and bit and what to expect. Now I have the task of re-adjusting to Saudi life.. *Having to call the driver whenever I need to go somewhere and coordinate pickups with my other clients drivers. *shops closing every time there is a call to prayer. *roasting in my abaya in 35C * having maids prepare my food, make my bed and wash/iron my clothes Miss you all already xo
Posted on: Sun, 14 Sep 2014 17:07:30 +0000
Trending Topics
Recently Viewed Topics
© 2015