Radisson SAS Hotel Jeddah

... are the open areas around it where you see people living in cardboard huts sifting through the refuse people throw away for whatever they can sell and/or use.

We had earmarked the latter part of our stay for trips, but there was an unexpected death in the family and complications with my in-laws housing which grounded us for the remainder of our trip --I wasn't even able to visit the old part of Jeddah, which has some amazing architecture.

Arrived at last on UK don't care if its freezing cold, if its snowing, if there are gales, even 5ft of snow I don't care.......I'm just happy that I am safe...didn't really want to say how much I was frightened the last few days and didn't want people to worry but the tears of relief when that plane took off I have never felt before ...

... But hey her loss!!!!! Also found out from the guard that she has had my ticket and passport since Wednesday!!! So not a clue why she kept telling Jana that she didnt have it!!!! Apart from her showing her authority!! But all she has done is shown me how Saudi Royals treat Wester people!! Im just so so glad Im out of it as if this is what she can be like then who knows what would have happened in March!!!!

... had a call from a guy that interviewed me for a job in November they live between Saudi and Jordan wants to speak again to me when I get back to the UK but I just don't know this has been such a terrible and frightening experience I just don't know what to do. Ive taken a few photos today well I had to didn't I just to prove that you can be a westerner out here. OH and Ive got loads of souvenirs on my legs, neck, arms, back etc etc

... have a life here as well as work. They where telling me yesterday about a Ball they all went to on Thursday evening at the English Embassy , there is another Ball there the end of March and they have these things on at least each month!!!! It is in an English School so I have sent off my application form, CV etc etc so fingers crossed and we will see what happens. Forgot to take my camera with me yesterday as I was happy and excited at being let out for the day, so didn't get any photos.

Sorry I have not done much on my Travel Pod but not really got the heart or mind to do it maybe after a week or so I might!! Need to get a leats a few photos before the end of March. At least I can say it was an experience and it will make me stronger as a person.

Arrived safely and got through passport and customs with no problems. Went for a medical this morning for my residency visa. The place where I am staying/living is very grand lovely and big and airy......though I must admit my room isn't as large as I thought it would be, especially when I see the children's (Princes and Princesses) rooms they are like HUGE beds bigger than king size and also a seating area with like two 3 seater sofas in!!! But hey I've got to remember ...

Making a speed trip on Jeddah can be challenging at the best times. I arrived right after Umrah visas had closed for the year, and on the onset of the Hajj visitors. Jeddah has become a modern city, not without its challenges, but a vast improvement from when I first started going there 23 years ago. Highlights, the Corniche, Al Segeoul restaurant; the Dinner Boat, The Red Sea Mall, Al Andalus, (great Cappucino NOT at Starbucks ...

... to have the whole family back together in one place but it will be good. I'm looking to get into freelance pt when i back i have already set up my website http://clairesharpfitness.weebly.com looking to get a job in the industry as well until i can build up my client base. so hopefully things will be good! so down to my last few days and am trying to get to see all the things i haven't yet - not that there is much to see! i have braved it and been ...

... youngest in the family. I used to be with my mom, with my whole family but I had no choice. I'm old enough... I had to make a decision. October 28, 2005, that was the saddest moment I ever had.... Ground staff was calling all the passengers for boarding and I needed to step into the aircraft. That was my first time to ride a plane but no excitement, all I knew was, I wanted to run and jump out of the plane to go back to my mom's lap!! That was terrible, ha!! The moment I ...