Tour Guide, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
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Historical Jeddah is situated on the eastern shore of the Red Sea. From the 7th century CE, it was established as a major port for Indian Ocean trade routes, channelling goods to Mecca. It was also the gateway for Muslim pilgrims to Mecca who arrived by sea. These twin roles saw the city develop into a thriving multicultural center, characterized by a distinctive architectural tradition, including tower houses built in the late 19th century by the city's mercantile elites, and combining Red Sea coastal coral building traditions with influences and crafts from along the trade routes.
Did you know that in the 1970s Jeddah was known for its outdoor sculptures? Part of the waterfront refurbishment plan involved gathering up some of the best examples, including works by masters such as Henry Moore and Joan Miró, restoring their faded grandeur and presenting them together in a stunning open-air museum, spanning 7 km of parkland. It’s a photographer’s dream. And the best: the waterfront’s free phone charging points and Wi-Fi mean you won’t miss a shot.