BY THE PINK TARHA
While the cold season has rolled in, it doesn’t mean we have to hibernate. There’s still some fun and worthwhile things to do during winter in Riyadh. Pass that hot chocolate!
Rain showers have descended upon Riyadh. And while the dark clouds make for a gloomy backdrop to our days, we need not feel sad like the cold, dry days of winter. In no time at all, we’ll be back to the long, sweltering heat of the desert so let’s make the most out of Riyadh’s short winter season while we’re at it. Here are some activities you might want to consider with your families and friends.
Go camping under the stars! Like what DQ Living is featuring this issue, camping in the desert is one of the best activities this winter season. Of course, check the weather for the day as rain can make camping in the valleys dangerous. Whether you join a group or do it yourself with your family and friends, camping is fun but it’s best to have some basic skills before venturing out into the dunes. If you’re worried about unpredictable elements when it comes to camping in nature, Thumamah Park has some camps for rent so you can do it within the comforts of adorned tents, majlis (seats on the floor), bonfire (no need to use rocks to make a fire) and modern toilets.
Savor a cup of coffee and good conversations. If you’re not adventurous and would just like to relax, then Riyadh has hundreds of coffee shops to choose from. Most of them have outdoor spaces too so customers can enjoy the good weather while nursing their hot cups of coffee or tea. This is Riyadh’s “nightlife”. In the DQ, you have Draft Coffee, 12 Cups, Starbucks and Dr. Cafe. Venture out a bit into Turki Street and you’ll find specialty coffee places like Elixir Bunn, Pandemic, Jolt, and Dose.
Enjoy a stroll in the park. The areas around universities and medical cities are perfect for walking but when the weather is cool, parks are good places to stroll and enjoy moments with your loved ones. Slow down and catch the beauty of your surroundings. Strolls can be moments of reflections or can be opportunities to bond with the people you do it with. Because a stroll is not as strenuous as brisk walking or running, you can talk anything under the sun with your loved ones and friends. It’s a great way to catch up on each other’s lives.
Cozy up! A lot of us are still not comfortable going out because of the threat of COVID-19 so stay at home and get some much-needed self-care. Burn your favorite candles (holiday scents if you must), cuddle up with a blanket, a cup of tea and a good book. Experiment in the kitchen with new recipes for savory dishes or baked goods.
The coronavirus pandemic is still impacting our lives and as it stretches nearly one year on, let us continue to adhere to precautionary measures when out and about Saudi Arabia. When enjoying our recommended activities outdoors, don’t forget to wear a face mask and socially distance.
ABOUT THE PINK TARHA
Janelle Vales-Yasay and Reina Tejano-Berina are the power duo behind the successful multi-awarded blog “The Pink Tarha”, an online lifestyle guide in Saudi Arabia. They started their blog in 2009 and since then have inspired many people by showcasing the fun and interesting side of living in KSA. What started out as a hobby for the girls has gained so much positive attention and appreciation in the process winning them the Saudi Excellence in Tourism Award.
Facebook/Instagram: @thepinktarha
Website: www.thepinktarha.com
