Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Al-Kady Rose Factory
NOTABLE BUILDING
( 733 4133; off As-Salamah St; 9.30am-2.30pm Sat-Thu)
The largest rose factory in Taif,
the 120-year-old Al-Kady Rose Factory is well worth a visit, particularly at harvest time
(May to July) when it's open 24 hours. Rose water (SR12 per bottle), used to scent
clothes, baths, cooking and drinks, is sold here.
Souq
SOUQ
( 9am-2pm & 4.30-11pm Sat-Thu)
Taif's souq is one of the largest in the Kingdom and is worth
a wander, particularly on a summer's evening when the people of Taif takes to its streets.
Beit Kaki
HISTORIC BUILDING
(As-Salamah St; 8am-2pm Sat-Wed Sep-May, 8am-noon & 5-7pm Jun-Aug)
Built in 1943 as a
summer residence for one of Mecca's most important merchant families, Beit Kaki is one
of Taif's finest buildings. The intricately carved balconies and window and door frames
have all been sympathetically restored and the building is now a small museum.
Sleeping
Taif is a popular summer retreat (May to September) and advance reservations are ad-
vised.
Safari Hotel$
HOTEL
( 734 6660; Musala St; low/high season s SR100/140, d SR125/175)
The best budget choice; all rooms
have balconies. Ask for a 'mosque-side' view, although be prepared for an early wake-up
call if you do.
Al-Barraq Hotel$
HOTEL
( 650 3366; fax 651 1322; Shehar St; low/high season s SR185/250, d SR300/350)
Al-Barraq is popular
among the diplomatic expat community and it's easy to see why - rooms are spacious,
comfy and the luxurious lobby, laden with marble and chandeliers, offers old-world glam-
our. There are also two restaurants, a health club and jacuzzi.
InterContinental Hotel$$
LUXURY HOTEL
( 750 5050;
www.intercontinental.com
; Hawiyah St; r/ste from SR594/1080; )
Around 10km from
Taif's airport, the refurbished InterContinental offers great facilities and services.
