2023-12-22 to 12-27 in Riyadh

 After 24 hours of traveling and an 11-hour time change, we were greeted at the Riyadh airport by Mohammed. It actually sounds more painful than it was. Mohammed lived with us and attended Roosevelt High School for the 2007-2008 school year. While we've had video calls a few times over the years, this is the first time that we've seen him since our good-byes in June 2008.

Abdulaziz lived with us for the 2008-2009 school year and also attended Roosevelt High School. He also lives in Riyadh. He and Mohammed met for the first time to create an event-filled plan for our visit. It's been wonderful spending time with both of them.


The first evening, Abdulaziz and Mohammed took us to Roshn Front, an open air mall. We walked around along with many, many Saudi families. Dinner at a Lebanese restaurant topped off the night. The food was incredible.









On Saturday, 12-23, we visited Masmak Fortress, also known as The Castle. The fort was constructed in 1865 in what became the central commercial area of Riyadh. It fell in and out of Saudi control until 1902, during the Battle of Riyadh, the Saudi's regained control. This was an important step in the unification of Saudi Arabia.








Sunday we went to Diriyah, the original homelands of the Saudi Royal Family. There are stores, restaurants, museums, and gardens to explore. We're learning a lot about the history of Saudi Arabia and eating really good food!








Some of the older buildings (>200 years???) in Diriya. Some have been restored and set up like museums. Chris is standing next to Abdulaziz and Mohammed is on the right.


Old and new behind the gardens at Diriya.













Traditional Saudi food, chicken with rice, two kinds of bread somewhat similar to naan, and many other traditional side dishes. We sat on the carpet and could hardly get up after we finished!















Part of the Riyadh skyline













My favorite, I call it the DNA building. Saudi's call it the twisted tower.
















The Kingdom Center
The first 3 floors are a shopping mall. Originally, the 3rd floor was only for women and children. It is now open to anyone. We ate at a very stylish food court called the Kingdom of Food. It's also referred to as Social Dining. You can find food from all over the world. It was very delicious.

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