Meet Farida Al-Harbi
Ahlan wa Sahlan! I'm Farida, a Saudi Arabian native living in the charming city of Delft, Netherlands. My journey has been one of cultural immersion, bridging traditions, and discovering the world's hidden gems. As a cultural liaison, I've developed a deep appreciation for the diverse tapestry of human experience, and through this blog, I share my adventures, insights, and reflections on travel, culture, and the beauty of our global community. Join me as I explore historical sites, savor local cuisines, and uncover the stories that connect us all.
- Empathetic
- Open-minded
- Curious
- Adaptable
- Diplomatic
- Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- Kyoto, Japan
- Paris, France
- Machu Picchu, Peru
- Seville, Spain
Latest Travel Diaries by Farida Al-Harbi
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11 Day TripCultural Journey through Ponte de LimaExplore the rich cultural heritage and serene landscapes of Ponte de Lima, Portugal with Farida and Jan on their immersive travel journey.
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8 Day TripExploring the Mesmerizing Dunes of Lençóis MaranhensesJoin me on an adventure through the stunning sand dunes and lagoons of Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, Brazil, with friends. A journey of natural beauty.
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8 Day TripSolo Cultural Exploration at Feynan Ecolodge, JordanDiscover the rich heritage and sustainable beauty of Feynan Ecolodge in Jordan, where cultural immersion meets eco-friendly living.
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15 Day TripCultural Exploration of Nara: A Journey Through Japan's Historical Heart
Join Farida and Jan on a 15-day journey to Nara, Japan, exploring ancient temples, cultural sites, and enjoying a serene stay in the heart of tradition.
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11 Day TripExploring the Historic Charms of Moulay Idriss, MoroccoDiscover the cultural heritage and picturesque landscapes of Moulay Idriss, Morocco, with Farida and Jan on an immersive 11-day journey.
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9 Day TripFlorence: A Renaissance Adventure with FriendsJoin me and my friends as we explore the artistic and cultural wonders of Florence, indulging in its rich history and vibrant atmosphere.
More about Farida Al-Harbi
Farida was born and raised in Ha'il, Saudi Arabia, in a family that valued both tradition and education. She excelled in her studies and developed a deep appreciation for her cultural heritage. Seeking new experiences, she moved to Amsterdam after marrying Jan, a Dutch engineer she met at an international conference. Adjusting to life in the Netherlands was initially challenging, but Farida embraced the opportunity to learn a new language and immerse herself in a different culture. She found a fulfilling career as a cultural liaison, bridging the gap between different communities and promoting understanding. Her blog on Evendo is a creative outlet, allowing her to share her unique perspective on travel, culture, and the joys of discovering new places.
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55
Age
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Female
Gender
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Cultural Liaison for an International NGO
Occupation
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Saudi Arabia
Birth Country
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Ha'il
Birth City
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Netherlands
Current Country
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Delft
Current City
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Married
Marital Status
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Jan de Vries, Male, 58
Spouse
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Children
- Layla de Vries, Female, 28
Interest
- Cultural heritage preservation
- International relations
- Modern art and design
- Sustainable living
- Middle Eastern cuisine
Hobbies
- Attending cultural festivals in Delft
- Learning about Dutch history and art
- Gardening with native Dutch plants
- Exploring local markets for unique ingredients
- Hosting intercultural dinners for friends and neighbors
Recent Articles & Tips by Farida Al-Harbi
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Travel AdviceMiddle Eastern Cuisine: A Culinary Journey for Curious TravelersDelve into the flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine and how it can enrich your travel experiences.
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Travel AdviceGardening Across Cultures: Bringing Native Plants Into Your TravelsExplore the world of native plants and how they can enrich your travel experiences and home garden.
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Travel AdviceNavigating International Relations: A Traveler's Guide to Cultural SensitivityUnderstand the importance of cultural sensitivity in international travel and how it impacts global relations.
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Travel AdviceThe Role of Modern Art in Cultural ExplorationExplore how modern art can enhance your understanding of a destination's culture and history.
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Travel AdviceBridging Cultures: Tips for Hosting Intercultural GatheringsLearn how to host intercultural gatherings that celebrate diversity and promote understanding.
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Travel AdviceTraveling as a Couple: Balancing Exploration and RelaxationTips and advice for couples looking to balance cultural exploration with relaxation during their travels.
Travel Essentials
- Comfortable, culturally sensitive clothing suitable for layering
- A versatile scarf for warmth and modesty
- A reliable travel adapter with USB ports
- Copies of my passport, visa, and other important documents stored both physically and digitally
- A well-stocked first-aid kit with necessary medications
Travel Tips
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Always research local customs and traditions before you go to show respect and avoid unintentional offense.
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Learn a few basic phrases in the local language; it goes a long way in building connections.
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Be mindful of your body language and gestures, as they can be interpreted differently across cultures.
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Support local businesses and artisans to contribute positively to the community.
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Ask for permission before taking photos of people or sacred sites.
Recent Memories from Farida Al-Harbi
This Explorers Travel Highlights
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My Travel Highlight
One of my most cherished travel experiences was attending a traditional Berber wedding in the Atlas Mountains of Morocco. The vibrant music, colorful attire, and the warmth of the community made me feel deeply connected to their heritage. Dancing under the stars that night, I truly understood the beauty of shared human experience.
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Favourite Destination
The Netherlands, without a doubt. While it is now my home, I continue to be amazed by the Dutch approach to life, their commitment to sustainability, and the beauty of cities like Delft and Amsterdam.
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Best Hotel
Amanfayun in Hangzhou, China. Its proximity to the Lingyin Temple and West Lake, combined with its focus on Chinese culture through calligraphy, tea tasting, and insightful talks, made for a truly immersive and enriching stay.
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My Adventurous Destination
Mongolia. Camping with nomadic tribes in the Western Altai was an unforgettable experience. Riding horses across the steppes and learning about their ancient traditions challenged me in ways I never expected.
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My Food Destination
Mexico City. The street food is divine, and the integration of international techniques by chefs has created exciting dishes. From tacos al pastor to chiles en nogada, the culinary scene is vibrant and diverse.