Mashable: Embark on an exhilarating adventure through Riyadh, the dynamic capital of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, where modern architecture seamlessly intertwines with vibrant culture and rich history. To truly capture the essence of this city, one must explore Diriyah, the birthplace of the first Saudi State and the residence of the inaugural Saudi family.

In this episode of 'In Your Neighbourhood', join the vivacious Dariya Sots, an expat from Ukraine, who has been living in Riyadh for seven years. For this adventurous episode, Dariya guides the Editor-in-Chief of Curly Tales, Kamiya Jani, through the captivating area of Diriyah. For those of you planning to visit Saudi Arabia, Diriyah is a place that is so integral to the Kingdom that skipping it is like missing the climax of a riveting story.

Without further ado, let's look at every secret that unfolds during this travel.

The best way to kickstart the journey is by visiting the famed Hodej Coffee Shop, a haven for caffeine and dessert enthusiasts. Here you can indulge in the region's finest coffee, complemented by delightful sweet and savoury treats. One can also experience the rich cultural tradition of extending a warm welcome with coffee and dates – a harmonious blend of bitterness and sweetness. And while you immerse yourself in the authenticity of the gesture, do not forget to use your right hand to savour every moment.

The next stop is the best destination for history buffs: the Salwa Palace. A UNESCO World Heritage site, the palace is the birthplace of the Saudi Kingdom. Let us explain to you a bit. The traditional mud-designed architecture was home to the first royal family of Saudi! So, what you witness is a structure that transcends time, and holds memories of the early days of the nation. However, now it has been transformed into a museum, which means you have the chance to look at every nook and corner.

When you venture further, you will be greeted by the Addiriyah Museum. It is an amazing place, as it houses a remarkable family tree linking back to the first King of Saudi. The tree, white in colour, features milestones with dates. There is also a mesmerising miniature map of Diriyah, providing a panoramic view of the region. It's almost like a maze of ancient homes and shops preserving the city's profound past.

The grand finale of this trip is the Maiz restaurant, renowned for mouthwatering delicacies like kabsa and mandi. Here you can revel in the culinary distinction–mandi prepared underground, and kabsa in the oven–both featuring melt-in-your-mouth meat.

At Maiz, the culinary offerings go beyond the usual staples, featuring jareesh made from either wheat or rice. All of this is accompanied by coffee, which makes your meal a symphony of distinct flavours.

Throughout this odyssey, Dariya also revealed the true spirit of Riyadh–a city where hospitality knows no bounds. One would feel the warmth of kind gestures, where a simple request for help might lead to an invitation for coffee or even a visit to a local's home. Riyadh beckons with open arms, promising an unforgettable journey through its cultural shades and culinary wonders. So, book your adventure today, and we promise you will create lasting memories.