Week two

Some observations after two weeks in Saudi:

- It’s true, there are no fitting rooms in clothes shops! We were at Dharan Mall and I just had to see if this is an urban legend or not. Apparently, it isn’t. There are fitting rooms, however, in the toilets. But for someone like me who has a hard time finding jeans that fit correctly, I predict that this set up is going to be a pain.

- There are stores here that sell musical instruments. Still not clear exactly on how music is banned here in Saudi, but in the malls or shops you don’t hear any music playing in the background.

- I mentioned that the abaya hides the shape very well over here, but women make up for it by displaying their signature and very expensive handbags. Jesus, practically every Saudi woman I’ve seen has one of these costly things slung over their arms. Oh, and they wear very heavy eye make-up, because it’s the only part of the face (or body) that they actually show off.

- Julien says he’s seen some, but so far I have not seen any sales ladies in shops.

- There are ‘family’ and ‘single’ sections in restaurants here.  It’s also wild seeing booths in restos being sectioned off with wooden panels for the privacy of some families. WILD. I wish I could take pictures, but I’m afraid to get caught.

I’m supposed to get my medical exams done for my iqama (resident card) soon. It was an unforgettable enough experience in Qatar, so I can’t wait to see how it goes here in Saudi. Hum.

Currently listening to:
Crippled Black Phoenix
I, Vigilante