SC to SA: Briefing, Travel, and Arrival

After safely traveling to DC and enjoying an evening grabbing dinner in the city, all of us met at the National Council on US-Arab Relations Wednesday morning for our briefing. We had a full morning. We started with the Director of the Washington Office of Aramco Services, the Arab American Oil Company. He helped us get ready for our visit to Aramco in the Eastern Province during our trip and explained the significance and abundance of oil in Saudi Arabia. We then met with a very helpful representative from the US State Department for an overview of US foreign policy with Saudi Arabia. Our other speakers were also diplomats familiar with Saudi Arabia. One was a two time (which is almost unheard of) Ambassador to Saudi Arabia. The other was the Diplomat in Residence at the National Council on US-Arab Relations. After these meetings, we grabbed a quick lunch and eagerly went to the airport.

The flight was long, but safe. It was difficult to sleep on the plane and our cramped legs were eager to move. We were all grateful to land in the desert. As we approached the terminal, we welcomed the sight of the sand and smiled, even though we were all in our full abayas. As we got off the plane, we were greeted by our governmental escorts and taken to the government VIP section. We had an expedited customs/immigration process. After paperwork and a few words of welcome, we left the airport bound for our hotel and much needed showers. On our way into the city from the airport, we could not help but be bombarded by all of the construction. It was impressive. Saudi Arabia is still growing. Upon arriving at the hotel, we met some Saudi students that will be showing us around some and helping us while we are here. We were welcomed with gifts left for us in our respective rooms as we waited for our luggage to be delivered to us. Saudi hospitality is nothing to balk at. Tonight we hope to visit a mall in the city and come back for some much needed rest. So far, so good. I'm looking forward to more adventures!