LOS ANGELES, United States: Meghan Markle’s new lifestyle show went live on Netflix Tuesday, showcasing the former British royal as a thriving domestic maven.
The Duchess of Sussex, wife to Britain’s Prince Harry, harvests honey, makes pasta and mixes bath salts against an idyllic California backdrop.
A rustic and effortlessly chic home provides the setting for the first episode, whose conceit is that she is hosting a long-time friend.
Of course, we’re not actually at Markle’s house, but rather another luxury property near her home, where camera operators roam, offering purposely wobbly close-ups of candles, crudite and cake.
It also seems to have two kitchens. You know, like everyone’s house does.
Harry — whom Markle wed in a fairytale ceremony in 2018, and with whom she fled to California two years later — only makes a fleeting appearance at the end of the eight episodes.
But there are little hints about life as a British royal; reminders of how — in their telling — the couple were spurned by a stuffy and racist establishment.
A friend who comes to stay, makeup artist Daniel Martin, “has just been in my life from the before, during and after, shall we say,” Markle tells an off-screen producer, with a meaningful pause to let viewers piece everything together.
Episodes of “With Love, Meghan” feature appearances from chef Alice Waters, actress Mindy Kaling and Abigail Spencer, one of Markle’s “Suits” co-stars.
The show coincides with a rebranding of Markle’s jam-and-cookies online retailer, which was originally called “American Riviera Orchard” but is now known as “As Ever.”
The series is the latest effort by the Sussexes to make their own financial way after being cut off from the royal purse.
A reported $100 million deal with Netflix yielded the much-talked-about “Harry & Meghan,” a six-episode tell-all about their relationship and their high-profile split from the House of Windsor.
That was followed by Harry’s successful autobiography “Spare,” which re-trod much of the same angry ground, with bonus tales about taking drugs in proximity to Hollywood celebs.
But subsequent media ventures that have not rehashed the same grievances have fallen flat.
A Spotify interview podcast by Markle was not renewed after a first series critics blasted as pointless, while Netflix offerings about the sport of polo and the Invictus Games failed to make much impression.
Early reviews of “With Love, Meghan” in the British press were not kind, with The Telegraph calling the series an “exercise in narcissism.”
“Meghan invites people to her pretend house” wrote the paper’s critic, and “they tell her how amazing she is. This happens for eight episodes,” it said.
Meanwhile Britain’s The Times newspaper said the show was desperate in its “upbeatness” with Markle “presenting her extreme wealth and mind-bogglingly exclusive lifestyle as if it is available to anyone.”
 

Kashtat Tawla is a destination for those who wish to experience a desert picnic vibe right in the bustling city of Riyadh. If you have ever wanted to enjoy the enchanting red sands without the inconvenience of driving an hour outside the city, this is the perfect place to gather with friends and family.

A variety of free board games are available, including classics like Monopoly and the beloved Saudi favorite, Jackaro.

The venue is well organized and run by a team of friendly and cooperative young Saudis who provide a welcoming atmosphere. The entry fee is SR39 ($10), which covers access to the venue and includes free board games. If you would like to enjoy a more private setting, tent rentals are available for about SR49 per person, providing a cozy space to relax and play.

Kashtat Tawla also boasts a diverse range of local restaurants, offering a taste of traditional Saudi cuisine. You can indulge in delicious dishes like jareesh, a hearty wheat and meat dish, kabsa, a flavorful rice dish with spices, and stuffed vine leaves, among other local delights.

To complement your meal, there are tea and coffee shops where you can warm up with a comforting beverage, perfect for the cooler weather.

In addition to food and games, the venue hosts lively activities such as folk dancing, showcasing Saudi cultural traditions. Car enthusiasts will also appreciate the display of classic cars, adding an extra layer of enjoyment for those who admire vintage vehicles.

The thoughtfully designed environment, complete with red sand, tents, and tables, creates an authentic desert atmosphere, allowing you to feel as if you’re miles away from the city, even though you are right in the heart of it.

You will find various activities available, including darts and a headshot game. Local brands also sell clothing, featuring comfortable hoodies and more. For an added touch of ambiance, you can request a wooden fireplace, enhancing the Bedouin experience.

While the entry ticket grants you access to the venue and table, keep in mind that additional fees apply for the fireplace and beverages.

From my personal visits, I have noticed some occasional shortages of board games or mixed decks of cards, so I recommend bringing your own set for convenience. However, it is important to note that there are currently no specific activities designed for children, which may be a consideration for families planning to visit.