RECOMMEND is a new feature in the DQ Living Magazine where we ask your favorite influencers on their “top 3” on various topics that are relevant to you. For this issue, we ask @parisverra, a travel photographer from the US now based in KSA with over 160,000 followers in Instagram, her top 3 places in Saudi Arabia where the cool winter season can be best enjoyed.
AlUla
My absolute favorite winter destination in Saudi Arabia is AlUla; to avoid the summer heat and be able to fully embrace and explore the most beautiful, vast desert during these winter months. I love driving around Hegra in the old Land Rovers and watching the sunset at Elephant Rock. Be sure to visit Old Town for dinner and see the beautiful Maraya Mirrored Concert Hall. But what really makes AlUla so special is the locals and the culture alongside the beautiful, unique scenery. They will make you feel at home, and trust me – you’ll never want to leave.
I recommend spending at least a minimum of 3 days in AlUla. Be sure to book your tickets for Hegra on ExperienceAlUla.com ahead of time. Shaden Resort is a nice option for accomodation. Otherwise, a more exquisite resort-like option is Habitas. Or if you’re an adventurer like me, opt for bringing your tent and finding somewhere to camp.
Red Sea: Umluj / Al Wajh
The winter weather makes for a perfect beach day along the Red Sea Coast. There are tons of places, such as Jeddah, to enjoy a nice beach or boat day. However, my favorite spot is Al Wajh. Al Wajh is a close neighbor to the more well-known area of Umluj. Both are equally as beautiful and still feel so untouched. What makes this place so special is how crystal clear and blue the water is, and how vibrant the coral reefs are. Imagine the Maldives, but in Saudi Arabia. In both of these towns, go to the marina area and inquire about a boat tour from the locals or plan ahead and find a tour guide to set one up for you.
Asir: Al Soudah and Rijal Almaa
If you really enjoy cold weather, head to the Asir region. This is where you will find cooler weather all-year-round in Saudi. Take a visit or hike Al Soudah Mountain to find yourself above the clouds. In the afternoon, drive to Rijal Almaa to see the colorful villages where you will experience the rich Saudi culture. This region is so unique and special to me because I never imagined Saudi to have a cold and mountainous destination. I recommend spending a few days in the area to hike and camp, wearing a flower crown just like the Flowermen of Rijal Almaa, and enjoying the cafes and restaurants in the city of Abha at night.
