An American Woman's Journey: From the Vietnam War to the Middle East

Susan Zarif’s memoir, Riding the Khamseen Wind, is not just a recounting of her life; it’s an unforgettable journey that spans continents, cultures, and decades of profound personal transformation. From her traditional American upbringing to navigating the challenges of living overseas for 25 years, Zarif’s story is one of resilience, cultural exploration, and a search for belonging across borders.

An American in the Vietnam War

In the early 1970s, Susan Zarif found herself in Vietnam, a country torn apart by war. From 1970 to 1972, she lived in the thick of the conflict, witnessing firsthand the brutal realities that shaped the course of the nation’s history. Her time there was transformative, deeply impacting her worldview and igniting a desire to explore the world beyond her American roots.

But the war left an indelible mark on her, prompting her to make what she calls her "Great Escape." Instead of returning home, she embarked on an incredible journey down the International Hippy Trail, a winding path that took her from India to Istanbul, Thailand, and Laos. This was a period of self-discovery, adventure, and immersion in the colorful, spiritual cultures of the East.

A Love Story Across Cultures: An American Married to an Arab Muslim

Zarif’s journey took a surprising turn when she reconnected with Salim, a Lebanese student she had met during her time at the University of Arizona. Their love story became the central theme of her memoir, a fascinating bi-cultural romance that crossed borders, religions, and traditions. She spent sometime in Sidon, Lebanon, where she lived with Salim’s traditional Muslim family, learning to navigate the cultural complexities of being an American wife in a deeply conservative environment.

The experience in Lebanon was anything but ordinary. Susan and Salim had to endure the Lebanese Civil War, a violent conflict that forced them in and out of the country. One of the most harrowing experiences was the summer of 1982, which they spent in Sidon during the Israeli invasion of Lebanon. The war not only tested their relationship but also shaped Zarif’s understanding of the fragile nature of peace in the Middle East.

Life in Saudi Arabia: The Expat Experience

The couple settled in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, where they lived for 16 years. Zarif’s life as an American expatriate in Saudi Arabia was filled with cultural contrasts and unexpected challenges. Jeddah, with its strict adherence to Islamic law, presented an entirely new way of life that demanded constant adaptation. But amid the challenges, Zarif found ways to navigate this conservative society and embrace the beauty of its traditions.

Throughout this time, the couple traveled back and forth to Lebanon, enduring the ongoing civil conflict. Despite the hardship, Zarif’s experiences in the Middle East—living among different peoples and religions—brought her a unique perspective on the complexities of life in the region.

Battles in Cairo: Fighting for a Dream

Zarif’s story doesn’t end there. In the later years of her journey, she found herself battling in the courts of Cairo to save her and Salim’s investments. This period, though fraught with legal and financial stress, is testament to Zarif’s perseverance and strength as she fought to secure their future.

A Rich Tapestry of History and Culture

Riding the Khamseen Wind is much more than a personal memoir; it is a historical narrative that spans the Vietnam War, the turmoil of the Lebanese Civil War, and life in the strict, religious society of Saudi Arabia. Susan Zarif’s journey takes readers through the vibrant cultures and diverse religions of the Far East and the Middle East, providing an intimate view of these regions through the eyes of an outsider who becomes intimately connected to them.

This book isn’t just informative—it’s vastly entertaining. Zarif writes with humor and honesty, bringing moments of levity to even the most difficult situations. Her story is filled with anecdotes that will make readers laugh, as well as those that will make them reflect on the challenges of crossing cultural and geographical boundaries.

A Visual Journey: Eighty Pages of Photographs

Adding to the richness of this memoir, Riding the Khamseen Wind includes eighty pages of stunning photographs that capture the essence of Zarif’s travels and the beauty of the places she called home. These images transport readers to the bustling streets of Cairo, the battle scarred images of Vietnam, and the timeless beauty of Asia and the middle east.

An Unforgettable Story

Susan Zarif’s memoir is not just a story of travel; it’s a powerful narrative about love, identity, and the challenges of life across cultures. Whether you’re fascinated by history, intrigued by different cultures, or simply enjoy a well-told love story, Riding the Khamseen Wind offers something for everyone.

Prepare to be inspired, entertained, and educated as you follow Zarif’s incredible journey across the world—a journey that you will never forget.

Explore more about Susan Zarif's memoir on our website, and don’t miss the chance to read this extraordinary tale that blends history, culture, and personal growth.