Around the World in 80 Days
Day 13: 7 October

Another night in Jeddah. To pass the time Passepartout and I visit one of the fairgrounds. It's family night, which means women and children only. Inside there is neon and music and bright lights, but only a few children, supervised by women in black. On one carousel children ride farmyard animals to the music of 'Old Macdonald Had A Farm'. Another, more energetic ride carries with it the warning, 'for your safety this game is not allowed for those who suffer from . . . hearts, diabetics, nerves, high pressure and the pregnants'. Beneath the sign a group of Arab women, black veils flying, are sitting together in a huge teacup as it whirls round a teapot. Sadly it's too dark to film.
Above the Atallah Happyland flies the Saudi flag, unique in the world for having an inscription on it. It reads, 'There is only one God and Mohammed is his prophet'. I must hope both are on my side tomorrow.
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PALIN'S GUIDES
- Series: Around the World in 80 Days
- Day: 13
- Date: 7 October
- Country/sea: Saudi Arabia
- Place: Jeddah
- Book page no: 54
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