Unexpected emotional depth in Saudi Arabia

I thought I was going to Saudi Arabia for beaches, food, and Diriyah. I got all of those things. What I didn't expect was how emotionally affecting the trip would be. The history — particularly around Tabuk — hit in ways that good travel sometimes does.

genuine hospitality was the moment that crystallised it. Standing there, eating Saudi dates I'd bought from a street vendor, something clicked about why travel matters. 6 days and I came home genuinely changed. Some places do that to you.