Venture into Taif, Saudi Arabia, and discover a dreamlike oasis in the desert kingdom.

I was completely captivated by Taif, Saudi Arabia! I'm here to share my amazing journey with you. As soon as I got off the plane, I could feel the cool air of Taif, a stark contrast to other Saudi cities. Compared to the scorching desert heat, the pleasant climate here makes it a true summer haven in the desert kingdom. My first stop was Wadi Shab. The valley boasts gurgling streams and lush vegetation, a rare sight in Saudi Arabia. Strolling along the stream, listening to the flowing water, and admiring the wildflowers and grass on both banks, I felt like I was in a paradise. The sunlight filtering through the leaves created dappled patterns on the ground, making for fantastic photo opportunities; every frame was wallpaper-worthy. From the valley, I headed to the Taif Rose Garden. I had heard that Taif roses were world-renowned, but seeing them in person was truly awe-inspiring. Vast expanses of roses bloomed freely in a riot of colors: red, pink, and white. The air was filled with a rich rose fragrance that was intoxicating. The staff at the garden explained the process of rose cultivation and harvesting, and I learned that Taif roses are a key ingredient in high-end perfumes. I even got to experience picking roses myself and bought some rose products as souvenirs, which were of excellent quality. After all that exploring, it was time to savor the local cuisine. Taif's gastronomy blends traditional Arabian flavors with unique local characteristics. I found a small restaurant in the local market and ordered grilled lamb, Arabic flatbread, and a specialty salad. The lamb was crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, bursting with flavor; the flatbread dipped in a special sauce was a unique treat; and the salad was fresh and refreshing, perfectly complementing the other dishes. The market also offered a variety of snacks and desserts, making for a delightful culinary adventure. As night fell, I visited the Taif mountaintop observation deck. From there, I overlooked the entire city of Taif, ablaze with lights. The distant mountains appeared hazy in the night, and the city lights intertwined with the starry sky, creating a dreamlike scene. The gentle mountain breeze swept away the day's fatigue. Taif also has many traditional handicraft shops filled with exquisite Arabian crafts. From delicate silver jewelry to vibrantly colored carpets, each piece embodies the dedication of local artisans. I picked out a few beautiful silver ornaments, which were exquisitely crafted and made for meaningful souvenirs. During my time in Taif, I escaped the hustle and bustle of city life. Here, I found natural beauty, fragrant roses, delicious food, and unique handicrafts. It's like a shining pearl in the desert kingdom, exuding a captivating charm. If you want to experience a different side of Saudi Arabia, be sure to visit Taif. I'm sure you'll fall in love with it too!