King Carl enjoys Middle Eastern welcome on scout mission

Even a seasoned globe-trotter like Sweden's King [Carl] Gustaf must have been impressed by the Arabian Nights-style hospitality he received on a recent Saudi tour. A traditional meal served in a desert camp and a camel ride were among the memorable moments on his official visit to promote the World Scout Foundation.

21 Feb 2008

Even a seasoned globe-trotter like Sweden's King Carl Gustaf must have been impressed by the Arabian Nights-style hospitality he received on a recent Saudi tour. A traditional meal served in a desert camp and a camel ride were among the memorable moments on his official visit to promote the World Scout Foundation.

During Thursday's gathering the royal - who's president of the organisation – sat cross-legged in a tent sampling food cooked over a charcoal fire. The Swedish monarch, a former scout himself, was in Saudi Arabia to mark the opening of a week-long exhibition highlighting the movement's role in strengthening peace between countries. "The organisation teaches children to be self-reliant and how to set a good example to others," he emphasised. "Thus, it offers a lot for the benefit of society."