My sisters, Ben and I all decided to go into "town". We arrived right before sunset.
Our driver, Ahmed, took us around with his car and gave us a mini tour of Albalad. Albalad, aka "old jeddah" is known to be the old and historic part of Jeddah and the “it” place for “local” shopping. It’s ancient decaying structures, history, diversity, and street art makes “Old Jeddah”/Albalad a promising colorful place.
Ahmed parked the car and we began to explore albalad by foot. While walking through the streets and alleyways, I saw a group of OLDer men, wearing the traditional white dress known as the “thob” sitting on a corner on the floor playing chess. It was beautiful. It was a Kodak moment but unfortunately I am a woman and I felt that it wouldn’t be wise if I snapped a photo. It’s not common that people go around taking photos let alone a woman. So when possible , I try to be discreet when snapping informal photos.
I continued to walk, exploring, chatting and sinking in Old Jeddah. It is so rich in beauty and history that a day visit is not enough. It’s facinating spirit made me enjoy Jeddah that much more. This is the Saudi that I enjoy and I shall return. But who knows when? will it be demolished? will they preserve old Jeddah ?
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