A large number of Western and Asian expatriates in the Kingdom regularly embark on desert expeditions during the winter and spring months to get a taste of desert life. Taking trips through domestic tour operators or as part of a private group, expatriates camp in desert areas often for days at a time as a means of escaping the hustle and bustle of city life in the serene desert lifestyle, Al-Riyadh daily reports. David A., an Englishman who works in the Kingdom, said he fell in love with desert excursions and camping ever since he took his first desert trip with friends near Riyadh. "Every time we go on such a trip, we come across young Saudi men picnicking in the desert and they usually invite us to drink tea with them. Once, a group of young men helped us free our car, which got stuck in the sand. I like Saudis because they are nice people," he said. Martin J., who is also British, said he looks forward to desert trips and rarely misses a chance to go on one, especially during the cool winter and spring months. "I do not get worried or feel scared when I camp at the desert. On the contrary, I feel completely secure. Saudi people are friendly and respectful. I like the weather here during the winter and spring and take a lot of pictures to show them to my family and friends back home," he said. Food & Tradition For American expatriate Garrett B., desert trips are a means to blow off some steam after a long week and learn how to cook traditional Saudi dishes. "My Saudi colleagues, who go with me on such trips, also taught me how to cook Saudi rice and meat dish Kabsa. I have mastered the way Kabsa is made and consider myself to be a good cook," he said. Dutch expat Derek K. said he enjoys sipping on traditional Arabic coffee while camping though he never ventures further from the outskirts of Riyadh for fear of getting lost in the desert. "There is something about the taste of Arabic coffee that I really like. It is delicious and tastes even more delicious when you drink it while camping in the desert. I also love dates and Saudi desserts," he said. Beautiful nature For French expat Laurent K., desert expeditions are a way to enjoy the breathtaking scenery and archeological sites of the Kingdom. Joined by his Turkish and Indian colleagues, the men collect fire wood and enjoy barbecuing meat in the open air. Bilal J. enjoys taking his children to the desert, something they can't do in his native Philippines. "I love to sit on the sand and look around admire the nature and creation of Allah. It never occurred to me that the Kingdom has such beautiful spots and nice weather in the spring. My kids love it," he said.
