Westerner moving to Bahrain to teach high school?

Question

Anyone have any advice--like, do it, don't do it, you're nuts...
And what's a girl like me to do there to stay entertained? New England born and bred, 24, liking fitness and the outdoors, very liberal Western but loving exploration?

And if you don't know anything about Bahrain or you're lumping what sounds like a relatively liberal country together with all the other Arabic countries like a rather stupid bigot, I don't need your comments because that's not what I'm interested in? Progressive smart thinkers with well-balanced answers only please?

Answer 1

Other than Dubai, thats the closest you are getting to western environment. As for teaching in an arab high school, thats not the brightest of ideas. They pay well, but you get ALOT of Sh*t from the students, they are relatively immature as compared to western high school students (although its not fair on my part to generalize as some are good, and it also depends on what school you will be teaching in).

Another thing about Bahrain is that it is really small. You wont get too bored for the first few months, but sooner or later you'll run out of things to do. There are a few clubs and malls to keep you occupied. No real outdoors activities though. On weekends, you might feel like all of Saudi Arabia's deprived/frustrated men have descended upon Bahrain, so stay off the roads, they are bad drivers.

It shouldn't be a bad experience :)

Good Luck

Answer 2

Bahrain is a beautiful island, there are beaches, malls and movie theaters, health clubs to keep you entertained just like any small town. There are also night clubs and belly dance clubs to go to. The other answerer was right about Barhrain being descended upon by all the Saudi males abd they do drive a little crazy but it will be an adventure. Be sure to dress modestly, they are an Islamic country( but one of the more liberal ones) Above all relax and have fun, it is a wonderful country and the people are very kind.

Answer 3

Hi! Yes, Bahrain is great!! Lived there.... It is very warm but you will get use to it. Air Conditioning is everywhere, except the open markets. Like the Souq. Staying hydrated is always best!
The Seef Mall, Marina Mall & Dana Mall are wonderful. Especially the Seef Mall.
Many nationalities are there like British, Austrailan, Indian, Sri Lankan & so many others. It is like a Great World Melting Pot.

The food is great!! You can have so many different types. The Champange Buffets are unbelievable at the upscale hotels.
***Many people don't know that they are really Western over in Bahrain. They have Starbucks, McD's, Burger King, Pizza Hut & many other such places...
The Supermarkets like Geant are French. Plus, the regular grocery stores have so many different varities of fruits & veggies around the world & inexpensive! Plus, Many open markets to buy at for next to nothing....
Usually in the flat (apartment) that you rent has a large pool/sauna/steam bath & great exercise equipment w/a gym. Or a house w/a pool. Plus, you will probably have a maid. Many people have live-in maids.
It is a whole different life over there but a truly unique experience. If I could go back I would. My kids went to a private school over there & it was a great experience for them to have students from Japan, Korea, Eygpt, Saudi Arabia & so on. In School one knew the Granddaughter to the King of Bahrain.
*** A Few Do's: Follow the local ways of dress. Mostly pants, capris & skirts. Dress modestly. Buy the Persain rugs when you are there. They can be an investment. Buy Gold @ the Gold Souq. Go Shopping @ the Souq. Stock up on the spices like Saffron, Cardamon & etc. Brass Items are inexpensive. Yes, Explore like the Bahrain Fort, see the Tree Of Life, Swim w/the Dolphins, Go on a camel ride, have a maid-you can trust, try many different foods, learn some Arabic & enjoy your experience!! Do stay alert of who you are with, who you make as friends & of what you do. Try & always stay in good touch w/the folks at home because they will probably worry about you. If you can have someone to come & visit & see for themselves---do this! Always use the buddy system & go out w/friends. Make sure your living place is safe. The front desk at your place is great to let them know you are your friends & such.

***A Few Don'ts---Try & not to wear shorts out in town. They are not appropriate. Try & not to wear clothing that is revealing. Drinking & Driving is a huge no-no. Don't go through the red lights...they will picture id your vehicle & ticket you. Cetain jestures are offensive to the culutre. I wouldn't go to Saudi Arabia.
Anything that is really precious or of great value-you might not want to take it with you....Becareful of driving....espeically on the weekend nights. Traffic in Swarmha Alley is very busy.
Remember the Friday night for us American's is Wed/Thursday night over there.

Only drink bottled water! Water is very cheap so always have it on hand. If you love to travel, going to other countries are possible. Going to Dubi for the weekend is neat w/a group of friends. You will be a world away but will probably get so comfortable there & enjoying it, coming back to the states will be very different. Hope this helps!!

Answer 4

If you are and American female, and you move to an Islamic country, I think you pretty much know what you're letting yourself in for. You must be some sort of masochist, or very, very stupid.