|
Jeddah in Saudi Arabia is considered a social hub for the rich and famous. Considered as one of the wealthiest cities in the world, Jeddah boasts a history that can be traced back to approximately 2500 years back. The Jeddah Travel Guide provides the domestic and internationals travelers with the tourist information on hotels and attractions in and around the city. And when on a trip to the city of Jeddah one can hardly miss the various historical and religiously significant spots of sightseeing in Jeddah. One of them is Balad in Jeddah. Also known as Al Balad, the downtown area of Balad in Jeddah is one of the oldest districts in the city. Balad literally means 'the town' and was referred to the area where the tribes of fishermen settled 2,500 years ago. Today, the district of Balad in Jeddah is dotted with architectural splendors that can be traced back to the days of the fisherman. But one of the most interesting aspects which one notices while traveling through this district of Balad in Jeddah is the urbanization of the area. The old structures in the districts are never pulled down but most of them are renovated for longer survival. This bestows an old world charm to Balad. Most of these ancient houses are made from corals and sea shells, a significant reminder of the fishermen tribes of the region. According to historians, the sea shells and corals were quarried from the coral reef and cemented in blocks with clay by the fishermen. One of the most thriving districts of the city, Balad in Saudi Arabia houses the crumbling structure along with the modern skyscrapers. Today, Balad also houses a number of business firms and corporate houses. One of the most famous landmarks housed at Balad in Saudi Arabia is the headquarters of the National Commercial Bank. Considered as the earliest skyscraper in Jeddah, the National Commercial Bank has won a number of awards for its structural design. Apart from the building and architecture of Balad at Jeddah one can also find a fine choice of shopping for branded and local goods. Few of the shopping malls at Balad offer a range of designer clothes but the most fascinating aspect of the shops at Balad are the pedestrian shops. Also known as 'souks', the pedestrian shops at Balad are a favorite stop for the locals and the backpack travelers. Vendors can be seen selling brooms, handmade baskets, spices and incense sticks.
|
