From Castles to Krispie Kreams

Ever since we tried to find the Tarut Castle a few weeks ago (and failed), I became more determined to circle back and accomplish the mission - and today we did thanks to our GPS.  I love this little box, it's amazing the confidence and excitement it creates to go and explore, especially now that we have learned how to find and enter coordinates.

At high noon we took off in search for the castle and before we knew it we had arrived.  It afforded some cool views, but unfortunately is is confined behind a chain linked fence so it prohibited our up close inspection.  As we were heading back, a 20 something Saudi in a nice car said that he could let us in to kick around.  I was skeptical at first because there was a sign that clearly said to stay out, but he said that he had a key (and permission) to get in, so we decided to follow him.  As you can see we got some cool pics and if you want to learn more about it just google "Tarut Castle".

Tarut is an island and it has some pretty amazing views of harbours, mosques and very upscale homes.  We sorta got lost on purpose to explore what the island has to offer.  There was a cornice with a park like setting that I'm sure in the cooler months would be full with families enjoying the day. 

On the way out we stopped at a gas station to fill up and as we were paying the attendant (which by the way everything here is full service) he handed us two small boxes of tissues. Not sure why, but I guess it is seen as a corporate gesture of appreciation. - unusual but nice.

From there we went and explored the city of Dammam, it is big and commercial.  Lots of stores and wide streets to explore.  We'll have to go back and spend more time actually going into the shops as everyone here  says they have a favorite place to buy everything from prom dresses to sofas.

After driving back into Khobar and picking up some paint and doughnuts, we went to the Dhahran camp to visit some families that have children Emri and Jayci's age.  They were the Randals (the dad was from Rupert) and the Johnstons.  We had pizza, dahl, krispie kreams and home made ice cream.  Not bad for being in the middle of Saudi Arabia.   

I am on vacation now for the next few weeks and we have a couple of options for activities to keep us busy.  Along with some excursions, we will be doing some home fix up projects to help it feel more like home, we will keep you posted...

Bahrain 2 - the sequel

If you've been following along from the beginning, you'll remember that my second month here I went with Peter to Bahrain to visit some important places - their mosque and the museum.  Well yesterday, the whole family and I (plus Jennifer) went back there again. 

It was a great adventure and well worth the trip.  At the grand mosque we were assigned a great guide, and to top it off all the women had the unique experience of wearing abayas (see pics) during the tour.  We learned some fascinating things about the mosque as well as Islam.  We were treated to a "back stage" rehearsal and translation of their call to prayer.  It certainly left a positive impression of the Muslim in all of our minds.

 

Afterwards we went to the museum and learned more about the history of the region as well as the specifics of the ancients Bahrainians. 

 After these two stops, the ladies had 2 things on their mind; 1-Lunch and 2 - Shopping.  We decided to eat lunch at the mall, but because it is Ramadan, nothing opens up until after sunset set.  Luckily, Carrefour (a supermarket chain) inside the mall remained open so we picked up some essentials and then set out to find an inconspicuous place to eat - the far corner of the underground parking lot (see pic). 

Then the shopping marathon began (just shoot me now), but I survived just fine.  We even fit in a movie (Larry Crown), Krishna was bummed because there wasn't any popcorn yet.

These are some cool pics Emri took of down town buildings.  I really like the one with propellers.

All in all a fun and fulfilling day!

Some catching up

Sorry for the time off, but days seem to go pretty fast especially as we settle into our nondescript routines.  I guess the highlight over the last week was our trip to Dharan to visit the King Azid Cultural exhibit.  To get there we needed to catch a bus from camp and then coordinate a taxi drive to the exhibit.  One thing that has been a pleasant surprise is the friendliness of the employees throughout Aramco.  For instance, as we were trying to figure out how to hail a cab, a friendly passer by stopped and offered us a ride in his cruiser van.  The ex-pats truly do lookout for one another and it has made the transition much easier.

Once we arrived, we made our way to the food tent where Alex was waiting for us.  It was a true pot purri of food choices, from traditional Saudi treats (dates and figs) to subway 5 dollar foot longs.  After tanking up on some food, we then went to the National Geographic display and viewed some truly amazing photos. 

After that we entered a large tent that showcased artisansand their wares from the 13 Saudi provinces.  We saw amazing handiwork, live falcons, terra cotta pottery and a host of other authentic products.  However, the most memorable event was when Faleh invited us in to a corner room and explained to us the provincial custom of neighborliness.  He shared with great pride the tradition that his home town has of inviting family and friends to a special room and all the activities that played out in it.  He showed us a local board game, shared stories of his home land and then for his big finish called over his special friend to sing a song of friendship to us.  For me it was truly a magical moment that made the whole trip there worth it.  (see pics)

We have just entered the month of Ramadan and are just now starting to understand the significance and adjustments that comes with this holy month.  We will be sharing more stories, learnings and experiences as the month goes on, but for a high level over view this month means that basically the country shuts down for half a day, the Muslims fast from sun up to sun down to increase spirituality and gain a greater connection and appreciation for what Allah has given them.

Well enough for now.  We are safe and enjoying this adventure and send you our best.