The Magic Kingdom - Nicola M Stewart

In the West the view of Saudi Arabia found in the average travel guide is one filtered by the perceived threat of terrorism and the strict adherence to moral laws which seem so alien to those of us on the outside. But what is everyday life really like in The Magic Kingdom, the expat name for Saudi Arabia? What are the challenges faced by Western women and men when they emigrate for work and family and experience Saudi Arabia culture shock? This insightful and at times moving tale from Nicola Stewart recounts true life stories, memories and adventures from her time in this conservative Islamic nation, and scratches beneath the surface to the deep cultural heart of what was until relatively recently a nation of nomadic peoples. Moving to the city of Riyadh with her two sons in 2005, ready for adventure, exploration and to finally be reunited with her husband after having spent the majority of two years apart, the Saudi Arabia culture shock that greets her is not something she was prepared for - everyday life here could not be more different than in her native Scotland. Women and men are segregated in public life, with women unable to drive or go out wherever they want unchaperoned by husbands or close male relatives. It is illegal to publicly practice any religion other than Islam, which means Christmas is behind compound doors, and all of this is without even mentioning the heat! These true life stories tell of a western woman's initial struggles to adapt to this unfamiliar environment, compound life, her time in the souqs and shopping malls and exploring the sights. Over the two years she spent in KSA the country, culture and people carved a profound place in her heart. Her tale holds the character of vibrant memories and adventure in a far flung place most Westerners will never see, but through her fascinating account, we may see through the underlying terrorism the lives of ordinary people living in an extraordinary place.