If you’re anything like me and my wife Susan, retirement brings with it the freedom to explore the world in ways we’d only dreamed of before. With the kids grown and time truly on our side, the opportunity to visit Saudi Arabia presented itself as an irresistible adventure. We knew the country's historic allure, but what we experienced was beyond our wildest expectations. Shin Luxury Tours didn’t just plan our trip; they orchestrated a deeply personal journey that captured both the ancient and the luxurious sides of this magical land.
Our adventure began in Riyadh, the bustling capital. Stepping out of our luxury hotel, we felt the pulse of the city, a blend of old and new. Shin Luxury Tours arranged a private visit to prestigious Arabian stables, where we were introduced to the majestic horses that are integral to Saudi culture. Susan and I, though not equestrians ourselves, were moved by the beauty of these animals and the pride with which they were presented. Later that day, we took a helicopter tour over the city, a breathtaking aerial perspective that made us appreciate the juxtaposition of gleaming skyscrapers and the endless expanse of desert stretching beyond the horizon.
We also took a day trip to Diriyah, the birthplace of the Saudi state. Shin had arranged for a local architect to guide us through this UNESCO World Heritage site, bringing the ancient ruins and restored buildings to life with stories from centuries past. Walking through the narrow streets, it was easy to imagine what life was like here long ago. And yet, the modern restoration allowed us to see how history and innovation blend seamlessly in this country.
AlUla: Desert Magic and Sunrise Balloon Rides
From Riyadh, we flew to AlUla, a place that immediately cast its spell on us. Our day began with a hot air balloon ride at sunrise, an experience that words struggle to capture. As the sun slowly rose over the rugged desert, the ancient rock formations lit up in shades of red and gold. Floating silently above this mystical landscape, I couldn’t help but feel a profound sense of peace, as if the desert itself was sharing its secrets. Afterward, we toured the AlUla Oasis, a hidden green sanctuary that felt like a world apart from the arid surroundings. The day ended with a traditional desert dinner under the stars, the vast, quiet night sky providing the perfect backdrop to a day filled with wonder. For our last day in Alula, We started with an ATV ride through the dunes, the vast openness making us feel like kids again. Sandboarding was a first for both of us, and though we weren’t exactly graceful, we laughed the whole time. But the highlight of the day was galloping on Arabian horses across the sand at sunset. The wind in our hair, the rhythmic sound of hooves on the sand—it was a magic moment I’ll never forget. Susan and I looked at each other and knew this trip would stay with us for the rest of our lives.
Mecca: A Glimpse of the Sacred
Though non-Muslims aren’t permitted to enter Mecca, Shin arranged for a day tour to observe the Holy City from a respectful distance. It was an experience that Susan and I both found deeply moving. From our vantage point, we could see the magnificent structures, most notably the towering clock tower that dominates the skyline. While we couldn’t enter, just being near such a sacred site allowed us to reflect on the importance of this place to billions of people worldwide. It wasn’t about seeing every detail; it was about being present in a moment that felt reverent and profound.
Jeddah: Art, Sea, and Adventure
After our reflective day in Mecca, we traveled to Jeddah, a city that buzzes with art and creativity. Shin organized a private tour of Jeddah’s vibrant art galleries, allowing us to meet local artists and understand the rich artistic culture that thrives here. Jeddah’s Corniche, with its stunning views of the Red Sea, was the perfect place to unwind after our art-filled morning.
But the adventure wasn’t over yet. The next day, we dove into the Red Sea—literally. Cage diving with sharks was something I never thought we’d do, but there we were, face-to-face with these incredible creatures. Susan, always the braver of the two of us, was thrilled, and I have to admit, it was one of the most exhilarating experiences of my life. To top it off, Shin arranged a ride in a seabreacher, a semi-submersible craft that zooms across the water's surface and then dives beneath it. I hadn’t felt that kind of adrenaline in years.
The Red Sea: A Luxurious Retreat
For a change of pace, we spent two days at a luxury resort at the Red Sea. The resort itself was an oasis of calm, with every need catered to, allowing us to simply relax and rejuvenate. One afternoon, I watched Susan crafting her own perfume in a workshop arranged by Shin. The scents of rose, oud, and saffron filled the air, and the perfume she created is now a fragrant memory of our time here.
A Journey Tailored to Us: The Best of Saudi Arabia Luxury Tours
What made this trip truly special wasn’t just the destinations but the way Shin Luxury Tours crafted it around our interests and needs. They took the time to get to know us, to understand what we wanted from this experience, and then they delivered it beyond our wildest dreams. Whether it was a heart-pounding adventure or a quiet, reflective moment, every day felt designed just for us.
As we flew back home, Susan and I reflected on our journey through Saudi Arabia. It wasn’t just a vacation; it was an experience that deepened our connection to each other and to the world around us. We came home with more than just photos and souvenirs—we brought back memories of a lifetime. If you’re considering a trip to Saudi Arabia, my advice is simple: Do it. And do it with Shin Luxury Tours. They made our dream a reality and I’m confident they’ll do the same for you.
