Saudi Arabia: Guy Fawkes Mask

I am surprised daily by surreal visions that I don't necessarily expect to see here in strict and staunchly religious Saudi Arabia.  This street vendor was offering Guy Fawkes masks for sale. 

Jeddah: Beautiful Door Binzagr Gallery

Carved of wood with intricate detailing, this is another beautiful doorway of the Darat Safeya Binzagr Museum and Art Gallery of Jeddah. The building itself which houses the museum is a wonderful example of Middle Eastern architectural details.  On display at the museum are the Saudi female artist's paintings and her amazing collection of traditional clothing and accessories.

This gem of a private museum is tucked away in Jeddah off the beaten path, near Tahiliya and Madinah Roads.  For more information, visit their website by CLICKING HERE.  

SkyWatch: Jeddah Compound Living

Many expats who come to Saudi Arabia to work prefer to live in gated and guarded communities called compounds.  Many compounds offer recreational facilities and activities, shops, and restaurants within their walls.  In Jeddah, there is a shortage for this type of housing and most compounds have very long waiting lists to get in. Because of all the extra amenities they offer, this housing comes at a premium cost.  Many expats negotiate to have housing included in their work contracts. 

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Old Jeddah: Dried Fish

The Turkish-Afghani souk area of Jeddah is loaded with interesting shops which sell everything from furniture and carpets to traditional clothing and jewelry, and everything in between.  Lighting, baskets, and other handicrafts are abundant, making this a colorful place that is a shopper's delight. 

CLICK HERE FOR A MAP to the Turkish-Afghani souk of Old Jeddah.

Jeddah: Entrance Doorway Binzagr Gallery

This is the lovely entrance to the Binzagr Art Gallery of Jeddah.  The door is flanked by two large scenic tile murals which I have featured on previous posts: 

Our World: Blind Old Man

While visiting the Turkish and Afghani souk area down in Old Jeddah, I captured this quiet old man resting, sitting on a rock.  Although weather worn, his clothes are clean and he seems well cared for.  In his hand he is holding a few riyals, given to him by passersby.

CLICK HERE for the link to a map of the location of Old Jeddah's Turkish and Afghani souk.

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Jeddah Barber: Saloon Turkey