Atairis

When I lived in Saudi Arabia, Bahrain was our little escape from Saudi restrictions. There were movie theaters, women drivers, free dressers, live concerts, and my parents relished in a drink or two (or many). Bahrain has several resort hotels that sit on some incredible beaches, but one must beware the incredible numbers of jellyfish that are floating around those waters. It was always a treat for me to go there.

I lived in Saudi Arabia for 10 years and settled in three different cities—Riyadh (capital), Khamis Mushayt, and Al Khobar. I’m torn between saying this place is worth visiting and not worth visiting because it is so dangerous for Americans and Europeans. I lived there, and the people are very kind, especially generous and comely, but during these times a visit there is quite a risk. Riyadh has grown from a desert town to a full-blown city over the past two decades, and the mountains in Khamis host majestic rain waterfalls and baboons screeching at night. Al Khobar is the closest city to booze, women driving, abaya-free dress wear, live concerts, and movie theaters in all the country… because it’s merely a short drive across the causeway to Bahrain (where all the afore-mentioned are actually legal). I have to say that shwarmas are delicious, and the cheese bread is hands down the best in the world. The driving overall is a bit reckless and unbridled, but we survived (at the expense of my father’s sanity behind the wheel). Saudi Arabia is perhaps an acquired taste, something that grows on you over time. It’s always been my second home. If any of you have any questions, please feel free to ask me!