Wander Thoughts

• She stresses that there are several reasons why she would recommend visiting Saudi Arabia for holidays.
• The content creator shares a travel plan to visit the country's most notable attractions.

was once one of the world's least-traveled places.

The attraction is opening to international tourism, and visitor numbers are expected to soar when the 2034 World Cup arrives.

Thinking of going but hesitant because it's now marked on the map, and you're unsure if it's really your scene - or concerned about receiving a negative welcome?

this may just spark your travel excitement for the country.

The 27-year-old creator of travel content has resided in Saudi Arabia for 15 years and is eager for the global community to recognize this country as an ideal destination for vacationers.

One should always follow and learn about the country, including its best destinations, common misconceptions, and ideal itinerary, as revealed by MailOnline Travel.

We started off by asking her her advice for those who were apprehensive about visiting.

She said: "Saudi Arabia is an extremely safe country, and I would recommend that people don't take everything they see in the media at face value. The Saudi people are among the most warmly hospitable and welcoming you'll ever encounter."

I strongly suggest visiting this place as a holiday destination. Similar to many other Gulf countries, incidents of street violence and thefts such as muggings are extremely uncommon, and police visibility is prominent in major metropolitan areas.

'Since visiting will be a new and possibly unfamiliar experience for you, I suggest you arrive with an open and understanding mindset. It would be beneficial to research the customs and social norms beforehand, and to be receptive to and participate in the activities.'

Inayah stated that several assumptions are held about Saudi Arabia.

She disclosed that even though "it's true that you can't drink alcohol, it doesn't undermine the experience" of visiting.

The travel expert added that visiting women do not need to wear a headscarf.

She stated: 'Modesty is encouraged, but women are no longer required to cover their hair or wear an abaya.'

She claims that despite perceptions that 'women lack rights' and 'there's no freedom of speech', 'Saudi women are highly educated' and are taking on increasingly prominent leadership roles.

Concerned that it might be extremely hot? Inayah said that isn't always the case, telling MailOnline: 'While summers are very hot, the winter months from November to February are pleasantly mild, making it an ideal time to visit.'

What is the travel Specialist's favorite thing about the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia?

She said: "It's difficult to select a single highlight, particularly given my personal connection to this place. Witnessing Saudi Arabia's remarkable metamorphosis has been truly impressive. From a more isolated society, it has evolved into a vibrant centre of cultural and innovative activities, fuelled by the forward-looking leadership of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman."

'Saudi Arabia skillfully combines contemporary advancements with a rich heritage.'

The place where I grew up eating never fails to impress with its mouthwatering shawarma.

'Events like Riyadh Season have put Saudi Arabia in the global spotlight, offering unforgettable concerts, thrilling sports events, and top-tier entertainment.'

In 2023, I had the opportunity to attend MDL Beast Soundstorm, the largest music festival in the Middle East, where I was able to witness extraordinary performances by artists such as David Guetta, Steve Aoki, and Amr Diab.

Given that Saudi Arabia will be hosting the Fifa World Cup 2034, the country's international influence is poised to reach new heights. As such, there has never been a more opportune moment to explore and discover this rapidly evolving nation in person.

What are the country's essential sights to visit?

Inayah suggested visiting historical attractions in Riyadh, including Masmak Fort, Murabba Palace, and the ancient mud-brick city of Diriyah, the origin of the Saudi state. Additionally, she recommended exploring modern areas such as the King Abdullah Financial District, Via Riyadh mall, and Boulevard.

The Kingdom Centre Skybridge, offering ‘panoramic views’, should be a priority, along with a day trip to the breathtaking Edge of the World cliff face, approximately 62 miles from Riyadh.

In Jeddah, Inayah recommended 'wandering through Al-Balad [the historic district], visiting the Floating Mosque, strolling along the Corniche and snorkelling at Silver Sands Beach'.

The ancient oasis city of Al-Ula and the nearby captivating tombs of Mada’in Salih - situated in Al-Ula, Saudi Arabia's first UNESCO World Heritage Site - are certainly worth your top consideration.

She said, 'Experience Abha, uncover the charm of the Asir Mountains, visit the traditional village of Habala and appreciate the pleasant climate and green landscapes.'

Meantime, in the desert, tourists can 'enjoy dune bashing, camel riding and a Bedouin style meal under the stars'.

Inayah stated to MailOnline that Muslim tourists should aim to 'experience the spiritual significance of Mecca and Medina, two of the holiest sites in Islam'.

One must also experience the cuisine and the lively souk shopping scene.

Inayah recommended trying Kabsa (spiced rice and meat), Mandi (meat and rice cooked in an earthen clay pit), Ma'moul (butter cookies), Maqshush (swirled buckwheat patties topped with honey and clarified butter), and Muttabqa (a stuffed pancake), and suggested that visitors browse through the souks to acquire spices and souvenirs 'and as well, experience the warmth of Saudi hospitality and traditions'.

She added: 'Souk al-Zal in Al Dirah in Riyadh is perfect for this.'

Certainly, tourists must be aware of the country's customs and regulations, as Inayah emphasizes in her TikTok video.

She shared with MailOnline: 'Just as you would with any destination, it's essential to use common sense and respect for the local customs. Refrain from criticizing Islam or the Saudi state, always ask permission before taking someone's picture, and be considerate of local dress codes to ensure a respectful and secure experience.'

Please dress modestly and respect local customs and traditions. Consumption of alcohol is not permitted, and some behaviors may be limited.

‘Respect people’s privacy by avoiding public displays of affection and refrain from taking the locals’ photographs, especially women and sensitive locations such as government buildings.’

You'll also want to plan your schedule around prayer times, warned Inayah, who said: 'Some businesses close during prayer times, so schedule your activities accordingly.'

Traffic can be challenging.

She said: ‘If I had to mention one drawback [about Saudi Arabia], it would be the traffic in Riyadh. The surge in tourism and increasing population have led to increasingly congested roads, often resulting in longer than anticipated travel times.

‘However, with the recent launch of the Riyadh Metro, this challenge is poised to become more manageable, offering a promising solution for more efficient transportation in the future.’

One more etiquette tip is on the list for a trip to Saudi Arabia: Inayah suggested: 'Engage with locals. Saudis are quite welcoming and ready to share their culture.'

Are you interested in learning more about Inayah's travel experiences? Look for her travel advice and inspiring content on her TikTok profile. @inayahtravels - and Instagram, @inayahtravels However, there is no text to paraphrase. If you provide the text, I'll be happy to assist you. www.visitsaudi.com/en .

Read more

• Travel blogger Anna Merabishvili states that she 'fell in love' with these cities.
• However, she notes that they are 'not necessarily the most widely visited destinations'

In times of overcrowding due to mass tourism, advice on lesser-known destinations has never been more valuable.

deserves a hat tip for picking out seven European cities that she says are the most undervalued.

Here, we learn more about these places, including the hospitality of the locals and their top three attractions and sights.

Reveals what most surprised her about each city

She says: "I have travelled to a variety of cities in Europe, and these are the places that I genuinely develop a strong affection for, although they may not be the most frequently visited."

Read on for more.

Which city would you most like to mark off your bucket list?

BORDEAUX, FRANCE

What did you envision about Bordeaux before your arrival?

Anna told MailOnline Travel, "I had anticipated the city to be quiet and less stylish than Paris. We stayed in a hotel situated on a vineyard, and to be honest, I was not expecting it to be such a large and luxurious establishment."

It was called Les Sources de Caudalie. The atmosphere is enchanting, like a fairytale, with swans and horses all around.

What has taken you by surprise the most about that location?

Anna says: 'I was most surprised by how vibrant the city of Bordeaux was. It quickly became one of my favourite cities in Europe, as the shopping is outstanding and there are countless options for food and drink. While strolling around, you can discover numerous hidden treasures - there is a street lined with colorful umbrellas, and some buildings resemble châteaux. Additionally, you will find numerous wine bars and cafes with outdoor seating areas, which greatly contributes to the city's overall atmosphere.'

What was the character of the people who live in this region?

Anna states: 'I had limited interactions with the locals, but those I did meet were very friendly and helpful.'

Would you like to explore three recommendations for things to do and see?

UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can easily get lost in the narrow streets, discover unique shops, visit wine bars, and stumble upon numerous unexpected treasures.

La Cité du Vin is an absolute must-visit destination. As you explore this immersive wine museum, you'll engage all your senses - seeing, smelling, and tasting - as you journey through the production history of wine from around the world. Your experience culminates in a wine tasting session.

'Experience a day trip to Saint-Emilion, one of the most renowned wine regions globally. Encircled by vineyards and medieval architecture, this charming town is an ideal destination for a day excursion.'

GDANSK, POLAND

What did you imagine it would be like before arriving?

She says, 'I was expecting Gdansk to be fairly pretty, but not exceptionally impressive. I thought that it was just a normal-sized town in Poland, but I was still very enthusiastic to discover it.'

What caught my attention most about the location?

German cultures and the city's youth, which is reflected in its architecture were also notable. It was also a young city, teeming with students and vibrant nightlife spots.'

What were the people who live there like?

Anna remarks, "'The locals were very friendly! We had a local tour guide who showed us around and she was very nice.'"

There are three things to do and see in this area, which may interest you.

You will enjoy beautiful landscapes, including a fountain, and colorful buildings while strolling along the river. You'll also get great views of the city.

It's absolutely captivating and offers a thorough insight into WWII from a Polish angle, showcasing well-organized exhibits that convey information while evoking a strong emotional response.

'Dance the night away at 100cznia. This converted warehouse serves beautifully during the day and also offers a unique atmosphere at night, reminiscent of an industrial street party.'

Stockholm, Sweden

What was it like before you were here?

She says: 'To be frank, I had thought it would be quite chilly and not very pleasant. I wasn't well-acquainted with the city beforehand.'

What was something that unexpectedly caught your attention in Stockholm?

Anna remarks: "I was taken aback by how pleasant the city was. It was sunny the entire time and people were having lunch by the river - it was a really great atmosphere."

Here are three things to do and see in the city.

Anna says: 'Delve into Gamla Stan, one of Europe's most well-maintained medieval city centres, boasting picturesque cobblestone streets, vibrant buildings, and quaint cafes. This area is also teeming with small shops, making it an ideal destination for shopping.'

'Also, visit the captivating Vasa Museum, which houses the Vasa Ship, an almost perfectly preserved 17th-century warship that met its demise on its inaugural voyage. The ship is centrally situated in the museum, where visitors can explore it to gain insight into its past and the people who navigated it.'

'Experience Stockholm's Archipelago by Boat. One of the most enjoyable ways to explore the city's surroundings is on a boat tour. The area is dotted by numerous fjords, offering a variety of day trips, including a visit to the notable Drottningholm Palace.'

Any memorable individual moments?

Anna says, "Visiting the Drottningholm Palace was definitely one of the highlights for me here."

What was the atmosphere among the residents like? A welcoming ambiance?

They said the atmosphere was extremely welcoming and the residents were very polite.

San Sebastian, Spain

What were your initial thoughts about what it would be like here when you first arrived?

You really caught me off guard, as I had no prior knowledge about San Sebastián. I was amazed when I discovered how phenomenal the food there ended up being.

What left the most striking impression about the place.

The culinary scene in San Sebastián was truly unforgettable. I was most astonished by the vibrant food culture, particularly the tapas bars, the variety of pintxos, and of course, the iconic Basque cheesecake, which stole my heart.

Recommend three activities to explore...

Anna says: "Pintxos hopping is the absolute top thing to do in San Sebastián. It's a fantastic experience to hop from one bar to another and savor the best pintxos each venue has to offer."

Additionally, take a cable car to the top of Mount Igueldo to witness breathtaking views of the city and enjoy an exhilarating roller coaster ride with a spectacular panorama.

'Lastly, enjoy a Michelin-starred meal. San Sebastián boasts an exceptionally high density of Michelin-starred restaurants in the world. It's undoubtedly the ideal destination for one of the most unforgettable dining experiences of your life!'

Tbilisi, Georgia

What was going through your mind before your arrival?

Anna said, "My entire family is from Tbilisi, so I have been visiting there since I was very young."

Anticipating the unexpected might not be everyone's cup of tea, but a recent survey suggests that there are still some unexpected things that might surprise visitors of your place of residence. Visitors to your residence may be surprised by "your quirky decor", "your shelf of vinyl records", "the ladder to your loft bed", "your floor polish is made from feinetza", "the honesty jar has a story behind it", "your learning inclinations", "easygoing guest policy when it comes to food", "nonsensical times-related objects on your cluttered clock face", "rusty equipment painted black", "digital albums made from unknown intagli"

I've been surprised by how European Tbilisi feels to visitors. The Old Town is steeped in history and has a lovely aesthetic, with photo opportunities abound throughout the city. Tbilisi's city centre is easily exploreable on foot and the taxi fares are quite reasonable.

Please recommend three activities and attractions.

Anna says: "Visit the Old Town. It's one of the most beautiful sections of the city. Walk across the Peace Bridge and explore the Abanotubani, where the traditional Georgian sulfur baths are located."

'Additionally, ascend to Narikala fortress to behold the most scenic views of the city. It is an ideal vantage point to capture photographs of the city.'

'Finally, Georgian cuisine is a must-try. Be sure to try the khinkali (dumplings filled with meat), khachapuri (cheese bread), and pkhali (a dip made from spinach and walnuts). Georgia is also the origin of wine, so you can be assured that the wine will be excellent!'

Are the locals friendly?

Anna remarks, "Georgia is one of the most welcoming countries globally! Therefore, the residents are indeed very amicable."

Bergamo, Italy

Before your arrival, what were your anticipations of what it would be like?

Anna notes in her conversation with MailOnline: 'I had expected a dull city with few attractions, as I had never before heard of it.'

What did you find most surprising about the location?

Anna reminisces: "Bergamo's Old Town was absolutely stunning! I loved how lively it was and the little shops, restaurants, and bars all around. The atmosphere in the town was just amazing."

Please let us suggest three experiences to consider:

Anna says: 'Explore the Citta Alta (old town) - definitely one of the city's main highlights. It's distinct from the new town and situated at a higher altitude, and can be accessed via the funicular. You can also appreciate the city's breathtaking views from up here.

You should also visit the Accademia Carrara, one of Italy's oldest and most esteemed art galleries, featuring an impressive collection of Italian Renaissance and Baroque art.

Finally, be sure to experience the local specialties. Stop by a local trattoria to sample some of the region's best dishes, including casoncelli (stuffed pasta with a flavorful filling) and polenta e osei (a sweet dessert similar to polenta).

Are the locals friendly?

Anna comments, "The locals are very nice and they were happy to help and suggest the best places to visit around the city."

Brescia, Italy

What were your preconceived notions like when you arrived?

Anna says: 'I realized that Brescia is a city rich in history and that it would make a magnificent destination to explore.'

What caught you off guard about the location?

Anna remarks: 'What struck me was how cozy the city felt and the many secrets it had hidden all around it.'

Please let us know three things to do and see.

Anna suggests: "Explore the Capitolium and Roman Forum. Brescia boasts one of the most notable Roman ruins. It is truly one of the most impressive sights and the ideal location for taking photos."

Then there's Santa Giulia Museum, placed near the Capitolium. Inside, you can learn about the city's history and discover appealing churches with intricate ceilings.

'Finally, enjoy breathtaking views of the city from Brescia Castle, nestled atop a picturesque hill, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll.'

Are the locals friendly?

Anna states: "The local inhabitants were amongst the kindest people I have ever encountered. Our tour guide here was extremely polite and provided us with a highly engaging tour around the city."

Read more