Misconceptions and Realities in Saudi Arabia

Alexis Carey has visited 58 countries, but this enigmatic nation is one she never imagined she would travel to.

Misconceptions and Realities in Saudi Arabia

Australian journalist Alexis Carey is an avid traveler. However, she had never thought she would visit Saudi Arabia until last month, when the country issued its first visas to tourists.

Previously, she didn't have much of an impression about this place. The information she received was often not very positive, such as it not being a paradise for LGBTQ+ individuals, strict regulations for women like: prohibition of driving, requiring a male guardian, and mandatory wearing of abaya (full-body covering cloak) when going out. This was challenging for Alexis especially when the weather often reaches over 40°C.

Given the opportunity to come here, Alexis was both intrigued and slightly apprehensive. During her days in Saudi Arabia, she realized she needed to dispel her preconceptions about this place. Women are allowed to move around freely and tourists are not required to wear abaya. The locals are friendly, regardless of social class.

“Every place we've visited, I've always been treated with respect. This applies not only to those working in the tourism industry but also to ordinary people,” she said. Saudi Arabia is home to young, intelligent, educated, and confident women working in museums, hotels, and tourist hotspots nationwide. English is widely used.

Trips to Middle Eastern countries have taught Alexis many lessons, especially about protecting herself from potential harassment on the streets. However, in Saudi Arabia, Alexis thoroughly enjoys herself, feeling much safer than in many places in Sydney where she hasn't encountered anyone trying to persuade her to buy souvenirs.

“The truth is, I love every minute in this land,” Alexis shared. She finds it difficult to find any flaws to “hate”, except for not being able to consume alcoholic beverages and the rather hot weather. “Clearly, this country still has a long way to go in terms of human rights, although recently the government has taken modern steps such as lifting the ban on entertainment activities or women driving, limiting the power of religious police, and most recently, promoting tourism policies,” she remarked.

This wealthy nation offers many attractions, such as diving in the pristine Red Sea, exploring the inspiring archaeological site of Mada’in Saleh... Additionally, the government is investing heavily in tourism projects, luxury resorts. This means that in the coming years, tourists visiting here will have more choices in terms of tourism services. “Saudi Arabia is a country undergoing significant change, and I hope it will only get better,” Alexis said.

Source: Anh Minh/ Vnexpress

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Reference: Travel Guide by Mytour