First things first: I'd like to introduce myself. I’m Irene, an 18 year old high school graduate from Athens, Greece. As of next week (1/11/2012), I will be moving to Jeddah, Saudi Arabia to spend the remainder of my gap year. My family have already taken up residence there a couple of months now, due to my father’s new professional position. Many have challenged my decision to follow them, maintaining that it is no place for a young,especially female, westerner, because of the restrictive nature of Saudi society. Indeed, in comparison to our western ones, Saudi ways do seem less liberal. However, I’m keeping an open mind. I believe it will be very interesting to experience this culture, a culture shaped by Islam’s laws and bedouin traditions, a culture immensely different from my own.
I created this blog as a fun and easy way to document my Middle Eastern experience, as well as keep my friends back home updated on what I’m doing, and with the hopes of gaining a few readers in the process. I will start blogging officially once I get there. Until then, take care, everybody!
