Cave Resorts in Saudi Arabia Offer Unique Tourism Experience

Cave resorts in Saudi Arabia offer unique tourism experience. (SPA)
Cave resorts in Saudi Arabia offer unique tourism experience. (SPA)
TT

Cave Resorts in Saudi Arabia Offer Unique Tourism Experience

Cave resorts in Saudi Arabia offer unique tourism experience. (SPA)
Cave resorts in Saudi Arabia offer unique tourism experience. (SPA)

Nestled amidst the mountains and valleys of Saudi Arabia's southwestern Al-Baha Region, a unique form of tourism is taking shape: cave resorts.
These creative accommodations, carved into the mountainside by local residents, offer visitors a chance to experience living in nature and the beauty of the region, SPA said on Sunday.
Shada Al-Asfal Mountain, where the cave resorts are located, is a geological marvel. At over 1,700 meters high, the mountain is one of the oldest geological formations on the planet, dating back 763 million years.
The mountain is home to a variety of natural wonders, including ancient caves that were once inhabited by indigenous people, fascinating rock formations, and stunning waterfalls.
The cave resorts offer guests a chance to explore these natural wonders while enjoying all the comforts of modern living. The caves house bedrooms, kitchens, living areas, and balconies with breathtaking views.
In addition to the stunning scenery, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, such as hiking, climbing, and biking.
The cave resorts are also a sustainable source of income for the local community. These resorts showcase the beauty of this region, without encroaching on its natural resources.



October’s ‘Ring of Fire’ Solar Eclipse Will Dazzle Parts of South America and the Pacific

 A supermoon rises behind a horse statue atop of Triumphal Arc during a partial lunar eclipse in Moscow, Russia, Wednesday, Sept. 18, 2024. (AP)
A supermoon rises behind a horse statue atop of Triumphal Arc during a partial lunar eclipse in Moscow, Russia, Wednesday, Sept. 18, 2024. (AP)
TT

October’s ‘Ring of Fire’ Solar Eclipse Will Dazzle Parts of South America and the Pacific

 A supermoon rises behind a horse statue atop of Triumphal Arc during a partial lunar eclipse in Moscow, Russia, Wednesday, Sept. 18, 2024. (AP)
A supermoon rises behind a horse statue atop of Triumphal Arc during a partial lunar eclipse in Moscow, Russia, Wednesday, Sept. 18, 2024. (AP)

A “ring of fire” eclipse of the sun is coming. But only a lucky few will be in the path.

The annular solar eclipse will be visible Wednesday over Easter Island and the tips of Argentina and Chile.

Here’s how to safely watch the final solar spectacle of the year.

What is an annular solar eclipse? Solar eclipses happen when the sun, moon and Earth line up just so. The moon casts a shadow that can partially or totally block the sun’s light.

During an annular eclipse, the moon obscures all but a ring-shaped sliver of the sun. That’s because the moon is at a point in its orbit that’s farther from Earth.

“The moon is just not quite big enough to cover the sun,” said Carolyn Sumners at the Houston Museum of Natural Science.

This eclipse will occur mostly over water in the Pacific. Rapa Nui, known as Easter Island, is in the path along with parts of Argentina and Chile.

A partial solar eclipse, when the sun appears as a crescent, can be seen from several locations including Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay and Hawaii.

Solar eclipses happen about two to five times a year. April's total eclipse of the sun dazzled skywatchers in parts of Mexico, Canada and the US

How do I safely look at a solar eclipse? Looking directly at the sun can cause eye damage, even when most of it is covered.

The annular eclipse is safe to spot wearing solar eclipse glasses, which block out ultraviolet light from the sun and nearly all visible light. Sunglasses or binoculars won’t cut it.

Glasses should say they comply with ISO 12312-2 standards, though fake suppliers can also list this on their products.

If you don't have eclipse glasses, you can still enjoy the spectacle indirectly. Make a pinhole projector using household materials or hold up a colander and look down to see an image of the eclipse projected below.

Peering at the ground under a shady tree can also reveal crescent shadows as the sunlight filters through branches and leaves.

What’s coming next? Two partial solar eclipses will grace the skies next year in March and September.

The next total solar eclipse won’t arrive until 2026 and will pass over the northern fringes of Greenland, Iceland and Spain.