My weekend in Mada'in Saleh
- Ten hour drive (was supposed to be six)
- Quaint ancient village full of date palms
- Didn't see one woman in the village
- Bus got stuck in deep sand in the middle of nowhere. Taxis eventually brought us back to the hotel.
- Gorgeous rock formations dripping and pourous
Homes, Tombs, and Temple
- Climbing, fresh air, and nature!
We drove back through the "holy" city of Medina. Signs along the way marked the border of Haram (forbidden) territory. Non-muslims are not allowed in the city. Just driving through presented a level of uneasiness I can't describe. On the journey, we had a couple of proper "abaya checks", and were escorted by police most of the way. Just outside of Medina, we stopped to get some food, when (after only ten minutes or so) police demanded that we reboard the bus. Apparently, due to the mingling of sexes from our group in public.
Even though I am exhausted now, this trip was absolutely amazing; the most cultural experience I've had here yet. See Facebook for more photos...it takes too long to upload here. If you're interested, I'm posting a link with some info about the history...http://nabataea.net/quikfax.html
How interesting!! Especially how the city with the date palms has newer buildings along with the ruins. Love the photos and being able to see your world.
ReplyDeletehaha, I went to madaien saleh in 2004 or 2005 i think. funniest part was that besides us, there was only one other saudi family. everybody else exploring madaien saleh were from europe and the US.
ReplyDeleteOh and I agree on not seeing any women. It was a bit eerie, felt like an alien!