From Castles to Krispie Kreams

Ever since we tried to find the Tarut Castle a few weeks ago (and failed), I became more determined to circle back and accomplish the mission - and today we did thanks to our GPS.  I love this little box, it's amazing the confidence and excitement it creates to go and explore, especially now that we have learned how to find and enter coordinates.

At high noon we took off in search for the castle and before we knew it we had arrived.  It afforded some cool views, but unfortunately is is confined behind a chain linked fence so it prohibited our up close inspection.  As we were heading back, a 20 something Saudi in a nice car said that he could let us in to kick around.  I was skeptical at first because there was a sign that clearly said to stay out, but he said that he had a key (and permission) to get in, so we decided to follow him.  As you can see we got some cool pics and if you want to learn more about it just google "Tarut Castle".

Tarut is an island and it has some pretty amazing views of harbours, mosques and very upscale homes.  We sorta got lost on purpose to explore what the island has to offer.  There was a cornice with a park like setting that I'm sure in the cooler months would be full with families enjoying the day. 

On the way out we stopped at a gas station to fill up and as we were paying the attendant (which by the way everything here is full service) he handed us two small boxes of tissues. Not sure why, but I guess it is seen as a corporate gesture of appreciation. - unusual but nice.

From there we went and explored the city of Dammam, it is big and commercial.  Lots of stores and wide streets to explore.  We'll have to go back and spend more time actually going into the shops as everyone here  says they have a favorite place to buy everything from prom dresses to sofas.

After driving back into Khobar and picking up some paint and doughnuts, we went to the Dhahran camp to visit some families that have children Emri and Jayci's age.  They were the Randals (the dad was from Rupert) and the Johnstons.  We had pizza, dahl, krispie kreams and home made ice cream.  Not bad for being in the middle of Saudi Arabia.   

I am on vacation now for the next few weeks and we have a couple of options for activities to keep us busy.  Along with some excursions, we will be doing some home fix up projects to help it feel more like home, we will keep you posted...