Ep 65. Frankie & Lily's first catch up of 2026 - What We Missed, What’s New & What’s Next

Welcome back, it’s our first catch up of 2026 and we’re kicking off the year with a proper life update!

Frankie and Lily kick off the new year with big updates - including Saudi Life: Unpacked officially launching on YouTube and a brand new recording space in the works before diving into a real, honest catch-up on winter break travels (UK + Ireland), expat family life, and the reality of getting back into routine after the holidays.

We also get into the stuff no one really talks about: post-travel reset with kids, screen time culture shocks, and the emotional side of expat life - all while keeping it light, funny, and very us.Plus, we answer your burning questions about moving to Riyadh - from short-term rentals and job hunting, to how to meet people as a newcomer (especially if you’re arriving solo).

SHOWNOTES:
- Our first catch up of 2026 + what’s been happening behind the scenes
- SLU updates: YouTube launch + a new recording space coming soon
- Winter break travel recap: UK highlights, Ireland trip, and expat holiday realities
- Frankie’s renovation / project house update (and the chaos that comes with it!)
- The post-travel routine reset: kids, emotions, and back-to-school transitions
- Screen time culture shocks + parenting abroad
- Why Saudi winter is an underrated time to explore (or stay put)
-QA: Your burning questions
Do you need a “perfect plan” before moving?
Short-term accommodation options in Riyadh
Job hunting in Saudi - what the market feels like right now
How to make friends and build community as a newcomer (at any age)

Resources Recommendations:
Opal (screen time + focus app)
Pinterest (vision boards / goal setting inspiration)
Fairmont (near Olaya / Ramla Plaza) - long-stay studio apartment area option
Antara Compound - short-term compound stay option
The Botanist (mentioned as an example of a small business journey)

Stay Connected:
📍 Follow @saudilifeunpacked for updates, resources weekly episodes.