With my busy and stressful week, it is difficult to take a long vacation. I realized that 15 years ago when I decided to join forces with my family-wide business. I watched Western businessmen in the Gulf work very hard for two weeks, and then take four days off at a nearby destination such as Egypt in the north or Oman in the South.
Bahrain may be the closest and easiest destination to the Eastern Province and since the opening of the huge King Fahd Causeway, it has become not only easy but a must place to go on weekends.
Many know by now that my mother’s family is from Bahrain so I am lucky to have more than a home in the small yet rich-in-culture country. With all that said, I have to say that when I choose to have a calm and relaxing weekend in Bahrain, I prefer to book a villa at Al-Areen or go to the Ritz Carlton. I do prefer Al-Areen Banyan Tree Resort because it is far from the center of town and its ever-crowded weekend streets.
In my 20s I used to like traveling to different crowded destinations but now, with all the stress in business and family responsibilities, I would choose a remote, quiet and luxurious resort with a state of the art spa as a must.
Dear Nadia
My husband and I have just moved to Dammam where he works with the railway company. We lived before in Oman in a very remote area in the mountains. I liked the people and the country and made many friends with the local women. Since I arrived here in Dammam four months ago, I have not really been able to get in contact with the local women. Can you tell me where and how I can meet them — especially professional ones? — Joan, Dammam
Dear Joan,
I know exactly what you mean. I, myself, because of my line of business, need to know women, partly to network and also to learn. You do not have to make an appointment but just go and meet the one and only Hind Alzahid, manager of the Businesswomen Center manager at the Chamber of Commerce and Industry in the Eastern Province. She is very cooperative, and will make you feel at home.
Best of luck!
Nadia