ESCAPE BLOG

Currently, due to the culture restrictions in Saudi Arabia, public cinemas and theatres are banned. For over 30 years, the Saudi people have been prohibited from watching movies that are not suitable under Islamic law. The authorities here have even gone so far as to condemn films as “an absolute evil”, meaning that it’s hard work for locals to enjoy the luxury of an evening at the flicks with friends. Some cafes are cashing in on this, showing films to encourage people to come in. For some, it’s a novelty. For others, DVDs and satellite television provide censored films for enjoyment in the home. [Read more]

When you hear the words ‘The Dead Sea’ what’s the first thing that springs to mind? The Dead Sea Scrolls, relaxing in the warm salty water, the exotic desert setting? As everyone knows the waters of the Dead Sea are extremely salty (it’s not called The Sea of Salt for nothing!) but it’s because of this ingredient that you can float and immerse yourself in your own time bubble. [Read more]

In today’s society of striving for physical perfection, you would have once had to go specialists in Los Angeles or the sunshine state of Florida for that perfect boob job. You only have to look at the popular television series Nip/Tuck to realize that plastic surgery is on the rise and it’s not just the older clientele wanting to slow down the signs of aging either. Thanks to the reality TV culture, it’s the teens and tweens who are now the biggest consumers of botox, fillers and enhancers. [Read more]

Oh to live in Vienna! Not only is the coffee amazing but the traditional Kaffeehauses are a Viennese institution. Historically, the humble cafe was the meeting place of the artists, writers and actors of the day – a haven for the movers and shakers. Today, they’re still a popular venue for a spot of people watching or just to pass some time. It’s totally fine to buy one coffee (which is served with a glass of water) and stay all day without being told to move on. Customers are treated with the utmost respect – for the price of a small latte, you’ll be treated like royalty. And, they keep refilling your water – how’s that for service! [Read more]

Whilst flying back from Tehran to Manchester last week, there were two elderly ladies discussing their trip. To be honest, I was in no mood for laughs – I’d had a long journey to the airport and I was hot, sticky and hungry (read miserable). All I wanted to do was get home. Thank God the flight was on time. It’s weird travelling alone sometimes and amazing how receptive you get to other people’s conversations. Believe me, I’ve spent hours sitting in an airport, alone, and have seen and heard some crazy things in my time. This encounter was not the funniest by any means, but so completely endearing I just have to share it with you. [Read more]

Forget the heady cosmopolitan vibes of your trendy European cities and head for the gritty excitement of the Middle East.

I love the exotic, intimidating and slightly weird Arab states; UAE for example takes some getting used to.  First, the miles and miles of desert sands are amazing – there’s nothing to compare in Europe. Ok, so there’s conflict in parts – so what? Don’t let that put you off, head for Cairo and see the amazing pyramids. Or visit Saudi Arabia for a teetotal trip and experience different cultures and lifestyles. [Read more]

Intrinsically etched into our minds as the capital city of famine, poverty and disease (cheers Sir Bob) today, Ethiopia is so much more than that. From the breathtaking landscapes of the Simien Mountains to the ancient site of Aksum, its rich and colourful culture is something to behold. It’s a pretty safe place to travel around, crime rates are low and the locals are friendly. [Read more]

So, you’re heading to the Middle East? Alcoholic drinks are banned in Islam. But alcohol can be bought easily in some Muslim countries – Jordan is pretty laid back regarding booze. The situation in Saudi Arabia is very different though. Here’s what you need to know about alcohol and drinking in Muslim and Islamic states. [Read more]

Securing a spouse in the Middle Eastern states generally involves the male’s parents making a marriage proposal to the female’s parents; a very formal and traditional process that lends nothing to romance or courtship. Sex before marriage is unheard of. [Read more]

Nescafe? No thanks. The Turks and the Arabs know how to do it – their thick, sweet, heady, rich liquid is like nothing else on earth. Popular due to the religious restrictions on alcohol, what else can give you a liquid buzz like a strong shot of pure, caffeine-rich legal stimulant? [Read more]