A bit about me
I am here in Bahrain, lost, confused and slightly homesick. I followed my partner here who lost his job in London and took the only job available in the whole of the world…in Bahrain. I am British and left behind 2 wonderful sisters, amazing friends and a decent social life. I worked as a fashion designer in London and had the privilege of travelling to lots of amazing places as part of my job, I miss my job, I miss my social life, I miss being able to take a walk whenever I want, I miss trees, I miss dim sum, I miss movie nights with my sisters, god, I even miss the underground!
Trying to adjust here has been difficult and a definite culture shock, I dont think I quite knew what I was letting myself in for when I agreed to move here. Anyhow, I am here, I am trying. I decided to create this blog as a means of moaning, rambling, ranting, just getting it off my chest! So here I am lost in Bahrain, trying to find myself in this crazy town!
Please note that at times my tales are for amusement purposes and may have been exaggerated as well as the characters in these stories, even Bahrain itself! No offence is ever meant and please take my exaggerations light-heartedly.
Should you have any questions about this blog or life in Bahrain, you can contact me using the following email address nicklenocky@yahoo.com
fredo latimier said
Hi!
I know it might be hard and I understang what you are living and leaving… but knowing you i’m sure you will overcome all that and i m sure you will find new friends over there.
take care and have fun !!
lots of love
fredo
Vicky said
Hi there,
My name is Vicky and I am British and still living in the UK. I will may be moving to Bahrain with my husband. I read your blog and found it interesting and also amusing!!
I hope that your job is going well – it is very difficult to get one out there and you should be proud!
I may do my own blog when i get to Bahrain – seems like it would be good therapy too.
Take care
Vicky
drifter said
Hi Vicky
Thanks for lovely message, I will email you so you have my address in case you need any help or advice when you come over.
Kind Regards
Oz said
Hi,
Well, where do I start?! I am Bahraini myself and i find this place to be culturally boring and depressing!!!
I worked and studied in London for more than a year, before that I was in somewhere else in the UK, but plz believe me when I say that I understand your frustration about this place! even me being from this country I can tell you its abit boring over here!
I really had a wonderful time in London, I miss the underground, the buses, the plays that we used to go to every week, the movie nights in Leicester square, and the pubs after school and work!
Plz, do plz give this place a little bit of chance, I know how u feel, but maybe u will find some nice stuff around here, i m sure u will!! have u visited the tourist places? what abt the cafes? dont like ‘em? how abt the british club, or dilmun, or even country clubs?
there are some nice (but hidden) places around here
now, for the friends part, I DO ADMIT that finding the right company here is so difficult! its “not-so-social” to be social here!!!
I myself struggle to find ppl to go out with on trips or to have fun around the good places here.
I would like to show u the good and fun side of this country, maybe u can change ur mind after all, give it another chance plz!!
tc
drifter said
Hi Oz
Thank you for taking the time to read my blog and commenting.
Please note that the ‘about me’ section was written some time ago when I first arrived, I had not meant for it to be so ‘negative’! This blog documents my sometimes funny experiences here as well as my struggles with the culture, its observation only and I see myself more as a spectator amongst the Arab culture.
I am getting used to Bahrain though and I agree there are some real hidden gems! My favourite has to be Muharraq so far as well as Cafe Lilou. I would be keen to hear about any other hidden gems if you care to share!
Please, please dont take anything I say as offensive or judgmental about Bahrain, I am giving it a chance and slowly but surely I am starting to build a life for myself here, as well as seeing the many amazing things Bahrain has to offer.
tc
Osama said
hey!
great! i m glad it worked well for u!
well, i haven’t paid too much attention to when this was written, but just felt the need to write something to cheer u up!
i wasn’t offended or anything like that! i do understand exactly what u mean
if it was another person in another place, it would go like “alone in foggy London” or “wondering with dog in Paris”! LOL
well, i can see that u already know some good places here! i come originally from muharraq! there r two nice authentic places to visit there; siyadi house and the shaikh ali house (i think now its turned into a cultural/art center or something like that…).
unfortunately u can’t get any proper public beaches around here, there are all turned into private or hotels! but there is a small hidden public beach that hasn’t been touched (yet), its next to the bahrain fort (that’s the area around seef mall), its so natural and peaceful with flamingos wondering around, just ask where the bahrain fort center is and the beach is right behind it with a cafe too!
speaking about flamingos, try to go with ur boyfriend to the AL Arin resort, its one of the most underestimated places around here, there u will find a nice place to wonder around and watch the natural inhabitants of bahrain (well, we haven’t got much of them anyways!), its next to the F1 circuit. while u there go to the banyan tree resort, they got a nice bar on top of it, wonderful desert view! and do not miss the F1 race (even if u dont like F1) this year shud be really good in terms of weather and spectacle.
night life is not pretty bad, u got the salsa bar in merqure hotel, the cocoon lounge in juffair, the coral beach, the trader vics/mai thi, and bushido (i just came from there!).
try this place; Lavintana, they serve the best sandwiches and cakes around here, its in the adliya cafes’ block.
as a british citizen u get access to the british club in Um Alhassam area (not so sure abt it, but i will check over this when i go next time), there u will find a small place but full of ppl from the UK, a great pub, and excellent swimming pool, (its open during “Ramadan” for drinks and food! believe me u will consider going there when this month shows up here next September!).
i m so so so sorry for the very long reply! just want to make sure u have a good experience around here
plz do let me know of any other thing u would like to know about, i got very good connections and insight over here.
tc dear
Osama said
funny bag article by the way, i got into the same situation with two girls wanting me to buy them bags from louis vuitton in selfridges! couldn’t believe myslef that i was buying two bags, each cost over 1500 quids!
drifter said
Hi Osama
Thanks for all your tips…I have done them all already!!! The only thing I hadnt tried was Lavintana, so I went there on saturday…very sweet!
Thanks!
sirena said
Hi,
I came across your website while on expatblogs.com. It looks like you’ve had some interesting adventures and experiences here in Bahrain! I can relate. I’ve been here since last year as well (Mar ’09) and enjoy it now, but know it was a shock at first. Hope you’re enjoying it more now!
Sirena
drifter said
Hi Sirena
Thanks for your comment. Yes I have had some interesting adventures indeed, and I hope lots more. They say it takes a while to adjust, so I will just take it in my stride for now.
I had a look at your blog…very nice. I will be sure to keep an eye on it going forward.
xx
sirena said
Hey! I just saw your blog comment – wasn’t sure how else to contact you besides here
. My husband actually works in Saudi, so we have Saudi visas. We’ll just drive through the causeway and then up to Kuwait through there.
Hope you have a nice weekend!
Susie said
Hi
Found your blog whilst researching what its like to live in Bahrain as my husband is starting a job there soon so we will be leaving the cold & damp UK (hurrah) in the next month or so. I loved your stories of your new life, keep it up.
Susie
drifter said
Hi Susie! Thanks for your kind comment and welcome to Bahrain (in a month or so). If there is anything I can help you with don’t hesitate to contact me at nicklenocky@yahoo.co.uk
: )
rena said
hey – what is your email?
Ryan said
Hello,
First off I must say I find your blog both informative and
entertaining in equal parts. I came across it when looking for non-biased
views of what life is like in Bahrain.
I am a graphic designer currently living and working in London. However
recently I have been approached by an agency in Bahrain (Manama) about
working there, and after untertaking two telephone interviews I have been
offered the role. I was just wondering as someone who has lived in Bahrain
and London whether you think this would be a good option? The money will be
a lot better and I have recently been thinking of looking for a job in a
different country as I have recently become single and don’t have anything
holding me here. But also I am worried that maybe Bahrain is a bit boring?
There isn’t much of a creative industry and is there a chance I could be a
bit lonely there…what is the expat community like in Bahrain? Is there many
Brits that live there/opportunities to meet other British people?
I notice that most of your negative feelings towards Bahrain is the sexism
of many of the men there. Being male myself I’m quite sure this won’t be a
problem for me, however I would be interested to hear of any other negative
aspects that you have found that if knowing what you know now may have put
you off moving there?…also of course any positive aspects too that have
surprised you about the country?
It would be great if you could help me with some of my queries, it may help
me make a more informed decision on whether I move or not.
Many thanks,
Ryan
drifter said
Hi Ryan
Just give me a day or so and I reply to your questions : )
drifter said
Hi Ryan
Thanks for your compliments on my blog.
Okay so firstly I would have to agree with you, there isnt much of a ‘creative’ industry, if you are comparing it to London. As a designer myself, I have to say that I miss museums, art exhibitions, the availability of amazing magazines and books, even art equipment. However if you are not comparing it to London, which I dont think you should do, then there is a ‘creative’ industry. However, I think that the creativity here is let down a lot by quality, attention to detail seems to be lacking, and some may even say lack of inspiration. Regarding graphics agencies, I have heard that there are a few places here in Bahrain that are very good and of international standard.
Will you be lonely? Well I think that depends on you. You would be really surprised at how lively the social scene can be here in Bahrain. And if you like drinking, theres plenty of that too! You just need to put yourself out there. If you are looking to party a lot, then maybe you should live in Juffair where there are always house parties and a few nightclubs.
I have never had a problem with being lonley (mainly because I have hubby) but I have found myself to be bored occasionally. Bahrain is such a small island that you often find you have done all the major attractions quite quickly, saying that though the tiny size of the island is great for getting to work. In terms of meeting people, this can take time, but it does happen. You mentioned other Brits, well yes there are plenty. You could consider joining the British Club. But please remain open minded, you will meet many nationalities, all worth hanging out with.
The other great thing about Bahrain is the location. You will have the opportunity to visit some wonderful places that are not too far at all. And if it does get a bit boring, it doesnt cost much to jump on a plane and visit Dubai for example, or Abu Dhabi where interesting exhibitions are often held.
I have to say, Bahrain has surprised me. I wasnt really sure if I wanted to come in fact. Its difficult at first and you must be prepared for this, but it becomes easier and you find yourself charmed by the island.
Okay so there are a few negatives for me, the main one being the treatment of some of the people here. Usually the labourers, housemaids, the low income workers. You learn to deal with this but I think its still very important that we dont forget our manners! The driving is terrible! It can be at times boring. And of course homesickness.
I wouldnt be able to tell you whether you should come and live here or not. But I will say, you will be pleasantly surprised by what Bahrain has to offer. I have been for sure. And if you have a good job and a decent salary (tax free helps of course!) then why not!?
Your life is what you make it : )
Ryan said
Hey,
thanks for your swift reply. Well I’ve made my decision now, and will be there before the end of the month!
drifter said
Very good….you wont regret it! Let me know should you have any further questions.
Myriam said
Hi,
I’m Myriam a french consultant. I’m coming to Bahrain between the 17TH to 25th. I have no driving license and I want (if it is possible) to avoid taxi drivers. Do you know if there is a bus services in Manama?
Thank you in advance for you reply,
I hopte that your integration is going better and better
drifter said
Hi Myriam
There is a bus service in Bahrain but I have nor taken it, nor do I recommend taking it if you are a visitor. You would really need to know Bahrain very well in order to use it. I also hear that the buses are quite dirty and there are a lot of men on them, but I dont know first hand. Since you are visiting, there will be no way to avoid taxis unfortunately. Just a warning, taxis are expensive here specially at the airport where they will add BD2 to the meter. There is also extra charges if you are calling from a hotel.
I hope this helps you slightly, but in all cases I advise you take taxis and always insist on the meter.
Sultan Yaqub said
I have to appreciate the way Drifter is giving out good information about the country… yes. all good, being a graphic designer and a officially a local, i couldn’t help not posting here, Drifter keep up the great work, Ryan are u here yet, which company have u joined and whats your expertise in graphics… i’ll like to share the local art scence… which is developing here now, galleries, some I.T exhibitions.. but not solely into creative ads and stuff. lemme hear u. Myriam, Just dont bus, it will save u a lot of time reaching the bus stops and the hot weather, taxis are more comfortable and safe from unwanted experiences…also that they have the london taxi style , taxis goin on in bahrain.. they have a toll free number and would be able to pick and drop you from ur place.
cheers everyone.
Ryan said
Hey Sultan,
yes I am here in Bahrain now, it’s been a few months since I got here…
I currently work at Unisono, do you know the agency? Yeah please let me know your expertise when it comes to the local art and design scene, I see a few galleries popping up here and there, but would love to know more.
Cheers
Esme said
hi,
I am a teenager in need of help!
I am really hoping you will be able to help.
My parents recently informed me I was moving to Bahrain.
Any tips?
Thanks.