Saudis originated as a nomadic Bedouin people, which is why I think their picnic game is so strong. They create the most beautiful outdoor setups and I aspire to reach their level of natural picnickery (should be a word).
I’ve seen families park a car by the sea or by a park and, within minutes, they have rugs unrolled, cushions set up, and tea being poured. They lounge for hours while children ride tricycles around them and stray soccer balls roll by. Eventually food appears (charcoal barbecuing was popular (kebabs) until the police started cracking down on open flames). They roll out thin plastic on the rugs which they put the food on, and everyone gathers around to eat. Then more tea/coffee, of course.
The few picnics I’ve attended, there is no lack of food or drink, and the atmosphere is super chill. People aren’t on their phones – they’re actually conversing. It’s like they enjoy each other’s company. Many families have a picnic ‘spot’ they return to weekly, so the respective family members know when and where to just show up. And this all happens in the evenings when the temperature is bearable. Families don’t always need a scenic location for their picnic endeavors either – I’ve witnessed them congregating alongside random roads, dirt lots, parking lots…
Sean had a group of friends who gathered at the same park almost every weeknight, so Sean knew if he wanted to see them, he could just show up at this park around 12am and they’d most likely be there.
On our recent road trip, we purchased some of the amazing cushion/chairs they make here for outdoor seating, so we are ready to upgrade our picnic skills, although I suspect it will take more than just buying the right gear to reach Saudi’s level.
