Embark on an exhilarating adventure through Riyadh, the dynamic capital of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. There, modern architecture is seamlessly intertwined with a vibrant culture and rich history. To truly capture the essence of this city, you need to explore Diriyah, the birthplace of the first Saudi state and home of the first Saudi families.
In this episode of “In Your Neighborhood,” join the lively Darya Sots, an expatriate from Ukraine who has lived in Riyadh for seven years. Darya guides the Editor-in-Chief in this adventurous episode. curly tales, Kamiya Jani explores the enchanting area of Diriyah. For those planning a visit to Saudi Arabia, Diriyah is an integral part of Saudi Arabia, so skipping here is like missing out on the climax of a fascinating story.
Without further ado, let’s take a look at all the secrets that will be revealed during this trip.
The best way to start your journey is to visit the famous Hodej Coffee Shop, a heaven for caffeine and dessert lovers. Here you can enjoy sweet and savory treats while tasting some of the region’s finest coffee. You can also experience the rich cultural tradition of a warm welcome with bitter and sweet coffee and dates. Don’t forget to use your right hand to savor every moment while immersing yourself in authentic gestures.
Next stop is Salwa Palace, a perfect destination for history buffs. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this palace is the birthplace of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Let me explain a little. The traditional mud-designed structure was home to Saudi Arabia’s first royal family. In other words, what you are witnessing is a structure that transcends time and preserves the early memories of a nation. However, it is now a museum and you can see every corner of it.
Further inside, you will be greeted by the Addiriyah Museum. This is a stunning site with a remarkable family tree dating back to Saudi Arabia’s first king. The white-colored tree has milestones marked with dates. There is also a fascinating miniature map of Diriyah, offering panoramic views of the region. It’s a maze of ancient houses and shops that preserve the city’s deep past.
![](https://sm.mashable.com/mashable_me/photo/default/img-8652_v772.jpg)
The grand finale of this trip is Maiz restaurant, famous for its delicious dishes such as kabsa and mandi. Here you can enjoy the unique cuisine of mandi which is cooked underground and kabsa which is cooked in the oven. Both have meat that melts in your mouth.
Maiz goes beyond the usual staples and features jaleesh made from wheat or rice. All of this is served with coffee, bringing a unique symphony of flavors to the meal.
![](https://sm.mashable.com/mashable_me/photo/default/img-8774_tgzv.jpg)
Through this adventure, Darya also revealed the true spirit of Riyadh, where hospitality knows no bounds. You’ll feel the warmth of a kind gesture, where a simple request for help might lead to an invitation for coffee or even a visit to a local’s home. Riyadh beckons with open arms and promises an unforgettable journey through its cultural colors and gastronomic wonders. Book your adventure today. We promise you that you will create unforgettable memories.