Tawaf Experience – Crowds, Safety & Surrender Around the Ka’bah
My Tawaf experience during Umrah, including navigating heavy crowds, staying safe, managing fear, and the emotional reality of circling the Ka'bah for the first time.
Main Street Millionaire by Codie Sanchez
A personal review of Main Street Millionaire by Codie Sanchez, exploring small business acquisition, ownership, and lessons from real‑world experience.
Masjid Aisha (Miqat) – Making Intention Before Entering the Haram
My experience visiting Masjid Aisha (Miqat), making the intention for Umrah, performing nafl prayer, and preparing mentally before entering the Haram in Makkah.
Preparing for Umrah – Wearing Ihram, Anxiety & Meeting the Guide
How I prepared for Umrah, including wearing ihram, managing anxiety, praying nafl, and meeting my Umrah guide before beginning the pilgrimage.
Ajyad Street & My First Walk to the Grand Mosque
My first walk to the Grand Mosque in Makkah, navigating Ajyad Street, prayer times stopping traffic, and what it’s really like walking to Masjid al‑Haram.
First Impressions of Makkah & Checking Into Emaar Elite Hotel
My first impressions of Makkah, including arriving at night, the atmosphere around Masjid al‑Haram, and checking into my hotel near the Grand Mosque.
Arriving in Jeddah – Airport, Immigration, SIM Cards & First Impressions
What it’s really like arriving at Jeddah Airport for the first time, including immigration, fingerprint checks, buying a local SIM card, and first impressions of Saudi Arabia.
Shadow Cell by Andrew Bustamante and Jihi Bustamante
An honest review of Shadow Cell by Andrew and Jihi Bustamante, exploring CIA cell structures, intelligence work, workplace lessons, and reflections from a former operative’s perspective.
Why I Went for Umrah – Intention, Loss, and Leaving London
A personal reflection on why I decided to perform Umrah, the intention behind the journey, and how leaving London marked the beginning of a deeply reflective pilgrimage.