What is it like to visit Saudi Arabia?

This post was used as part of an article from BBC News.

I visited Masmak Fortress, part of old Riyadh. Inside is a small museum which includes photos of old Riyadh from the early 20th century. Nearby is Deira Square which is the main public square of the city. It does, however, have a more sinister use for the location where public executions are carried out, hence it's nickname 'chop-chop square'.

Modern Riyadh is all about grand shopping malls and large skyscrapers situated on the grand King Fahd Road. The Kingdom Center is the largest (the building with a gap at the top like a bottle opener). Tourists can visit the observation desk at the top for impressive views over the city.

The best views of Riyadh at night are from the nearby Faisaliah Tower. From the top you are treated to a lovely view of the Kingdom Center tower lit up in different colours. But as it's an open-deck viewing platform it's very windy.

For those wanting to try local cuisine, the locals like to eat camel meat. I would describe it similar to mutton but greasier. I preferred the excellent local dates and the refreshing non-alcoholic malt drinks.

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