As I sit here this morning, sipping on my coffee that’s grown almost cold, my mind wanders through the many years I’ve spent here in Saudi Arabia. It's hard to believe it’s been more than two decades—a journey filled with ups and downs, much like a rollercoaster. And now, as my children stand on the threshold of college life, ready to leave the nest once more, I find myself reflecting on our time together and the changes looming ahead. The term 'adulting' often brings a smile to my face—it’s a funny little word that sums up the daunting, yet inevitable, process of growing up. Living through these formative years in a land so far from where I started in the Philippines has been nothing short of an adventure. When I first set foot in Saudi Arabia, I was brimming with youth and enthusiasm, naive to the challenges that awaited me. The learning curve was steep. I had to juggle the demands of work and family life, all while navigating the cultural intricacies of a place so different from my homeland. The workplace was particularly challenging, with its competitive atmosphere, work politics, and the office dramas that unfolded daily. Yet, it was here that I learned to merge my Filipino heritage with the local customs, creating a space where I could belong and excel. Above all, watching my children grow up has been the most rewarding part of my journey. From their first nervous day of school to their confident strides towards college, every moment has been precious. When they left Saudi Arabia, it felt like losing a piece of my heart, yet I find solace in knowing that they take a part of our shared life and values with them. To all the Filipino mothers out there, charting their paths through the complexities of adulthood, whether in Saudi Arabia or elsewhere, remember this: You are stronger than you think, braver than you believe, and more resilient than you ever imagined. Whatever challenges come your way, you are equipped to face them with courage and grace.
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1. Sheikha Chic: Winter Wonders for Women Ladies, it's your time to shine in the winter sun! Say goodbye to the predictable and hello to layers that are as sizzling as the Arabian sunsets. Picture this: a luxurious oversized scarf, a sleek abaya, and ankle boots that scream sophistication. Jewel tones like rich burgundy, deep emerald, and royal blue are your go-to hues for a winter wardrobe that commands attention.
3. Layer Love: Stay Warm, Stay Stylish The secret to winter fashion success in Saudi Arabia? Layers, layers, layers! Mix textures and lengths for a look that's as visually appealing as it is practical. Ladies, consider pairing a chunky knit sweater with a flowing skirt and knee-high boots. Gentlemen, opt for a stylish trench coat over a crisp shirt and finish the look with a cozy scarf. 4. Desert Nights, City Lights: Evening Elegance Planning a night out in Jeddah or Riyadh? Embrace the magic of winter evenings with outfits that shimmer and shine. Ladies, a sequined abaya or a velvet dress paired with statement earrings will ensure all eyes are on you. Gentlemen, a well-tailored suit in a deep, moody color will make you stand out in the city lights. 5. Footwear Finesse: Boots Made for Walkin' Boots are the undisputed kings and queens of winter footwear. Ladies, knee-high or ankle boots will elevate any ensemble. Gentlemen, desert boots or leather chukkas are your winter go-tos. Choose a pair that complements your style and keeps those toes toasty. This winter, let your wardrobe tell a story of style and warmth. Embrace the season with open arms (and a fabulous winter coat), and let your fashion sense shine as bright as the Saudi stars. Stay warm, stay chic, and make this winter your most stylish one yet! Winter in Saudi Arabia might not bring snowflakes, but it sure brings the opportunity to showcase your fashion flair in a unique way! Best winter boots for women: it's chilly and you need some fashionable boots!
As the cold winds announce the arrival of winter, it's time to step into a season of fashion-forward warmth. Choosing the right pair of winter boots is not just about staying cozy; it's also a style statement. In this blog, we'll explore and compare some trendy options to keep your feet both snug and stylish. 1. DREAM PAIRS Women's Low Chunky Block Heel Ankle Booties The Low Chunky Block Heel Ankle Booties by DREAM PAIRS blend comfort with sophistication. The almond toe design adds a touch of elegance, making them versatile for various winter outfits. The low block heel provides stability, making these boots suitable for everyday wear. 2. Sperry Saltwater Women's Snow Boot For those seeking a perfect blend of style and functionality, the Sperry Saltwater Snow Boot is a stellar choice. Designed to withstand winter elements, these boots feature a duck-inspired waterproof shell and a microfleece lining for added warmth. The lace-up closure ensures a snug fit, making them ideal for snowy days. 3. HUNTER Refined Gloss Quilt Tall Women's Fashion Boot Elevate your winter wardrobe with the HUNTER Refined Gloss Quilt Tall Fashion Boot. Known for their iconic design and high-quality materials, HUNTER boots are a symbol of timeless fashion. The quilted pattern adds a chic touch, and the glossy finish enhances the overall sophistication. 4. DREAM PAIRS Women's Cecile Black Platform High Heel Ankle Booties For those who appreciate a bold fashion statement, the Cecile Black Platform High Heel Ankle Booties by DREAM PAIRS are a head-turning choice. The platform heel adds a trendy edge, making these boots perfect for those who want to stand out in the crowd. 5. Clarks Alayna Juno Women's Ankle Boot Known for their comfort and style, Clarks presents the Alayna Juno Ankle Boot. The sleek design and premium materials make these boots a classic choice for winter. The ankle height ensures easy pairing with various outfits, from jeans to dresses. Choosing the Perfect PairWhen selecting winter boots, consider your style preferences, the climate of your location, and the activities you plan to engage in. Whether you opt for the classic designs of DREAM PAIRS, the functionality of Sperry, the iconic appeal of HUNTER, the bold statement of platform heels, or the comfort of Clarks, you're sure to find the perfect pair to keep you warm and stylish all winter long. Remember to check more customer reviews, size guides, and care instructions to ensure your chosen winter boots not only complement your style but also withstand the winter elements. Happy winter walking! Battle of the Backpacks: Unveiling the Ultimate Travel Companion for Your Adventures! Greetings, Adventurers! 🌍✈️ Ready to embark on a backpacking escapade but stuck in the labyrinth of backpack choices? Fear not! Today, we're diving into the exhilarating showdown of five mighty contenders, each vying for the title of your ultimate travel companion. Let the Battle of the Backpacks begin! 1. Arctic Hunter Casual Daypack - B00111C Key Features:
2. Occuwzz® Hiking Backpack - 45L Military Tactical Marvel Key Features:
3. Monoki Military Tactical Backpack - The Army’s 3 Day Assault Ally Key Features:
4. SKADE 45L Tactical Backpack - Survivalist’s Dream Key Features:
5. Wesoke 35L Military Tactical Backpack - The Stealthy Trekker Key Features:
And the Winner Is...In the epic saga of backpacks, each contender brings its unique flair to the table. The Arctic Hunter for the urban explorer, Occuwzz for the wilderness warrior, Monoki for the tactical maestro, SKADE for the survivalist, and Wesoke for the stealthy trekker. Your choice ultimately depends on the adventures you crave and the style that speaks to your adventurer's soul. So, dear wanderer, which backpack will accompany you on your next epic quest? The choice is yours, and the world awaits your backpack's imprint on its tapestry of adventures! 🎒✨ #BackpackBattle #AdventureAwaits Unveiling Riyadh's Hidden Gems: The Ultimate Camping Guide with Easy Reach from Riyadh City Center
Riyadh, a city pulsating with modernity, holds a secret world for those seeking adventure beneath the stars. Break free from the hustle and bustle, get your picnic mats ready as we unveil the best-kept secrets of camping in the heart of Riyadh. Pack your tents, camping chairs, gather your friends, and get ready for an unforgettable journey under the Arabian night sky. 🏞️ 1. Edge of the Red Sands: The Dunes Await! Venture to the outskirts of Riyadh and discover the magic of camping on the edge of the mesmerizing Red Sands. An otherworldly experience awaits as the sun dips below the horizon, painting the dunes in hues you've never imagined. 🌌 2. Wadi Hanifah: Nature's Symphony in the City Escape the urban hustle without leaving the city! Wadi Hanifah offers a serene camping experience amidst lush greenery and tranquil waters. Pitch your tent, listen to the whispers of the wind, and let nature's symphony serenade you. 🌳 3. Rawdat Khuraim: Oasis in the Desert Rawdat Khuraim, also known as the King's Forest, is a hidden oasis in the midst of the desert. Camping here is like stepping into a green paradise surrounded by palm trees and natural springs – a perfect contrast to the golden sands. 🏞️ 4. Thumamah National Park: Where Adventure Meets Relaxation Thumamah National Park offers the best of both worlds. Campers can explore rocky formations, embark on hiking trails, and then unwind by setting up camp under the stars. It's an adventure-packed getaway within reach of the city. 🌄 5. Ad Diriyah: History and Camping Collide Immerse yourself in the historical charm of Ad Diriyah and extend your experience with a night of camping. Set against the backdrop of ancient ruins and the modern cityscape, it's a camping spot where history and the present intertwine. 🌌 6. Ushaiqer Heritage Village: Bedouin Charm Redefined Transport yourself to another era at Ushaiqer Heritage Village. Camp in the embrace of traditional mud-brick houses, and witness the beauty of a starlit sky that has watched over generations. It's a cultural camping experience like no other. 🏞️ 7. Malhamah: The Valley of Adventure For the thrill-seekers, Malhamah is your playground. Camp amidst rugged landscapes, rocky formations, and the undulating beauty of the valley. It's an ideal spot for those who crave a bit of adrenaline with their camping experience. 🌄8. Al Uyaynah Park (EYE PARK): A Day and Nightime Enchantment As the sun bids adieu to the day, the park transforms into a realm of nighttime enchantment. The city lights twinkle in the distance, casting a magical glow over your campsite. Stargazing takes on a whole new level, with the cityscape adding a touch of celestial glamour to the desert sky. Al Uyaynah Park ensures that your camping experience is both comfortable and enjoyable. Access to clean facilities, well-maintained grounds, and strategically placed amenities make it an ideal spot for both seasoned campers and those venturing into the great outdoors for the first time. 🚗 Getting There and Safety Tips:
Who would have known that embarking on a solo journey from Riyadh to Dubai will not be just a usual (long) road trip, but an adventure filled with scenic landscapes, cultural wonders, and the joy of exploring two dynamic cities. While air travel is a common choice, my recent experience with SAPTCO Bus brought a unique perspective to the journey, offering a blend of comfort, affordability, and an opportunity to witness the beauty of the desert along the way. It was s sudden decision, I had 2 days off (timeback) at work and I badly needed a break so a trip to Dubai became an option. I scouted for available flights, but the cheapest I found online would cost me more than a thousand Saudi Riyals so I opted to book for a bus ticket instead. I found a roundtrip fare by bus from Riyadh to Dubai and back for 380SR only. Booking thru the SAPTCO website was surprisingly simple and straight-forward. I received my eTicket copy thru email a minute after I paid. The Departure: Riyadh to Dubai I took an UBER ride to the Riyadh Bus Station in Al Aziziyah District. I arrived 2 hours before the scheduled departure. There were a lot of passengers at the departure hall. As I boarded the SAPTCO Bus in Riyadh, I couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation. The journey promised not only a destination but also a passage through the vast Saudi Arabian desert. We were only 8 passengers during the trip. The bus was modern, comfortable, and equipped with amenities such as Wi-Fi and spacious seating, making the long ride ahead seem much more manageable. The bus left at 4:08PM. The Scenic Route: Through the Arabian Desert Leaving Riyadh behind, the landscape quickly transformed into a mesmerizing sea of golden sand dunes. The vastness of the desert, occasionally interrupted by clusters of camels and nomadic settlements, provided a serene backdrop for the journey. As the bus cruised through the desert highways, I couldn't help but appreciate the beauty of the Arabian Peninsula. Pit Stops and Cultural Encounters: Exploring the Oasis Towns The SAPTCO Bus made strategic stops at gas stations along the route, allowing passengers to stretch their legs and freshen up a bit. Just before reaching Al Batha border, the driver stopped for a thirty minute break so everyone have dinner at the local rest area. Border Crossing: Entering the UAE We reached the Saudi-UAE Border Control area at 11:40PM. First stop was the Saudi Customs. All passengers were asked to step out of the bust and take our bags to the conveyor/ Xray. There were porters and attendants helping the passengers load and unload each luggage onto the conveyor. After inspection, men and women were asked to wait in the two separate waiting areas until the vehicle inspection is done. At 12:30PM we were lined up for the Passport Check. Each one of us was asked to approach the officer thru the window. The Jawasat Officer asked me for my profession, and he scanned my passport. We were done at 1:16AM. Next stop was the UAE Immigration Control. An officer checked our passport, and we did Eye Scan at the counter. The UAE Customs officers checked the luggage compartment and then asked for our passports one by one. They finished inspection at 1:23AM. Crossing the border from Saudi Arabia into the United Arab Emirates marked a significant transition. The bus seamlessly navigated the border crossing process, and soon we found ourselves on the well-maintained roads of the UAE. The stark contrast between the rugged beauty of the desert and the modern infrastructure of Dubai was a testament to the diversity of the Arabian landscape. Arrival in Dubai: A City of Contrasts Reaching Dubai after an overnight travel felt like a rewarding accomplishment. The iconic skyline, dominated by the Burj Khalifa, welcomed us to a city that seamlessly combines tradition and modernity. The SAPTCO Bus had not only provided a comfortable journey but also a unique perspective on the gradual transformation of the surroundings. The entire trip from Riyadh to Dubai took almost 15hours. There’s an hour difference between Saudi and UAE. The Return Journey: Dubai to Riyadh As the time came to bid farewell to Dubai, the return journey with SAPTCO Bus offered a different set of experiences. The familiarity of the desert landscape was comforting, and the memories of the vibrant cityscape of Dubai lingered as the bus retraced its route back to Riyadh. I arrived one hour before the departure time. There were only two (2) passengers waiting inside the office. The associate asked for a copy of my ticket. He then told me that I would need to pay for an additional 40 Dirhams for the driver. I asked him politely for what the additional fee was, but he didn’t reply to me. The other passengers told me they also paid and like me, they didn’t know for what it was. There were only 6 passengers in the bus from Dubai to Riyadh. I seated in front, and there was a couple with their two small children. The bus left at 3:05PM. We reached the UAE Immigration at 8:40PM. There were quite a lot of passengers from 4 buses waiting outside the passport hall. We waited for our driver to call us after 30minutes. The Officer checked our passport and did eye scan. We then returned to the bus and moved towards the Saudi Customs. When we reached Saudi Customs, there was a long queue. Most bags going thru the xray conveyor were being inspected more thoroughly. The Officers asked several passengers to open their luggages. Noting that there are more prohibited stuff in Saudi Arabia, I realized that the patrol guards are required to do more stringent screening. We spent almost 2 hours in the Saudi Immigration side. It was way past midnight when we left the UAE/Saudi border. Finally, I could say that my trip from Riyadh to Dubai and back via SAPTCO Bus was more than a transportation experience; it turned out as a beautiful journey through contrasting landscapes, cultures, and the essence of the Arabian Peninsula. The affordability and comfort of the bus service, coupled with the opportunity to witness the beauty of the desert, made it a unique adventure that I would gladly undertake again. For those seeking a blend of adventure and convenience, the SAPTCO Bus journey from Riyadh to Dubai is a must-try, offering a fresh perspective on the enchanting landscapes of the Middle East. So, the next time you plan a trip to Dubai, consider taking the road less traveled – the SAPTCO bus might just turn your travel into an unforgettable adventure. Solo travel is a unique and rewarding experience that can teach you a lot about yourself and the world around you. It can be daunting at first, but it's also incredibly empowering. When you travel alone, you're in complete control of your itinerary and you can do whatever you want, whenever you want. Solo travel can help you to learn more about yourself, push yourself outside of your comfort zone, and experience the world in a whole new way. WHY SOLO TRAVEL? There are many reasons why people choose to travel alone. Some people do it because they want to experience new things and meet new people. I do it personally to challenge myself and step outside of my comfort zone. And of course, just because I also simply enjoy my own company. No matter what your motivation is, solo travel can be a life-changing experience. It can help you to:
TIPS FOR SOLO TRAVELERS If you're new to solo travel, here are a few tips to help you get started:
SOLO TRAVEL DESTINATIONS There are many great destinations for solo travelers. Here are a few suggestions:
Book the best accommodations for your trip!
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HappinessWhat makes me happy?
People. Everyone around me who believes and inspires me. Life itself is a happy experience. The world is a happy place. I had my own share of struggles, life was not easy for us back then but my Dad taught me how to believe in myself, work hard , be kind and to be strong. He inspired me to go out of my comfort zone. He used to tell me that the possibilities in life are endless and so I believed him. l Iost him quite a few years ago but he has left me with so much inspiration to follow my dreams - to visit places I have only dreamt of or have seen in the movies when I was little and to do things I thought were only for the privileged few. Wherever I go, I always remember my Dad, wishing he could see me from afar and somehow be proud of me as I have always been so proud of him. Life is short and I promised him that I would make the most of mine. Travelling makes me happy and in all other things, I choose happiness. We all should- always.. Memen Archives
May 2024
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