AFRIKA UND ARABIEN | 27 CHICKEN KABSA CORNICHE AL BALAD FEATURED New Port of Call JEDDAH, SAUDI ARABIA Archaeological excavations have revealed 5.000 years of civilization on Jeddah’s land, but it’s a blend of old and new that makes Saudi Arabia’s "bride of the Red Sea" so appealing. Explore the narrow medieval alleys of the Old Town (Al Balad), beloved for its wonderfully unique houses built out of blocks of coral harvested from the Red Sea. Wander the ancient stalls of the bustling Souk Al Alawi, the kingdom's most extensive bazaar, for genuine Arabian jewelry, Islamic art and traditional footwear. People-watch along the Corniche, a seafront promenade lined with lush green landscaping, cafés, piers and all 1,023 feet of the iconic King Fahd’s Fountain. Enjoy a delicious meal of fragrant rice and meat known as kabsa, considered the national dish of Saudi Arabia, or a traditional treat called matazeez, usually cooked with lamb and vegetables. See this new port on the voyage, Crossing the Suez, located on page 31.