Newbies to Riyadh - Need Advice

Hi All,

We just relocated to Riyadh - my husband, 2 children (son - 9, daughter almost 5), and I. Can anyone help with the following -

1. Where can I find Indian spices/groceries? I tried most of the chain stores - CarreFour, Danube, Nest-O, Tamimi, etc. Most of these stores carry the commonly used spices like cumin (jeera), coriander (dhania), turmeric (haldi), etc. In addition to these, I also need other stuff like hing, dried mango powder (amchur), mace (javatri), nutmeg (jaiphal), rock salt/black salt (kala namak),....things like that. Does anyone know where I can find these items?

2. Also looking for play dates, and suggestions for activities for our children - ages 9, and 5. I am not in favor of them watching too much TV. A little bit is fine, but beyond that, I'd rather they get involved in some activities like swimming, etc. Not sure what else is available....?

3. Any suggestions on where/how to receive Indian TV channels (Hindi)?

I would really appreciate any advice and recommendations.

Thanks,
Sonia