Job Discussion Forums

PierogiMonster · Joined: 17 Jun 2010 Posts: 148

As far as I can see, there hasn't been a lot of talk here about why y'all came and stick around (besides certain pecuniary considerations). Surely there must be as many reasons as grains of sand in the desert ...

Now, who's going to start us off? Perhaps the paranoid female American teacher at the back...?

veiledsentiments · Joined: 20 Feb 2003 Posts: 17644 Location: USA

Actually there is lots of discussion of this topic... I wonder what search term would bring them up for you...

VS

isabel · Joined: 07 Mar 2003 Posts: 510 Location: God's green earth

I love Oman because of the natural beauty. Most of the beaches and mountains are almost unexplored. Despite their weaknesses, I love my students. Despite the inefficiencies, I really like my Omani colleagues and bosses. (I say this even though their management style has allowed our department to go south).

Oman has a lot to offer. That being said, I will be leaving after one year. But I do not rule out returning.

It can be frustrating, but it is a wonderful place.

PierogiMonster · Joined: 17 Jun 2010 Posts: 148

Thanks Isabel for a succinct and heartfelt response.

One thing's for sure, Ibri and Oman are going to be a world away from cosmopolitan ol' Krakow, which is where the Monster is currently lurking. But, to rearrange a well-known saying, 'variety is the spice life of'.

J.

jdl · Joined: 06 Apr 2005 Posts: 632 Location: cyberspace

Space and time. Oman offers both in abundance.

Check out the following link for an article exploring this topic of Oman's attraction to ESL teachers. This article was written by Pinaki and has Ibra and the Sharqiya as the backdrop. Pinaki has written other articles brilliantly illustrated with photos which help explain the appeal of Oman to a niche population of the ESL world. The niche is generally more mature, settled and experienced in the ways of humanity and cultures. It is generally more of an appreciative population, seeking the less superficial treasures of life. Pinaki's writing appeals to this seasoned, mature and thoughtful niche population.

Enjoy.

http://www.pinaki.info/om_port_jim.htm

PierogiMonster · Joined: 17 Jun 2010 Posts: 148

Thanks for that jdl.

Space and time are just what I'm looking for. And I'll try to live up to your description of the 'niche population'. Very Happy

carnac · Posted: Fri Jun 25, 2010 2:39 am Post subject:

I find it valuable that you mention Pinaki as a good source. The best thing about his viewpoint is that he seems to look at the world with the view of a mature child: Eyes wide-open; accepting and non-judgmental; experiencing. I have also recommended his ongoing work, and have come to trust how he sees our world. Being a great photographer is one thing. Impersonal assessment somehow combined with love for the subject is another. Pinaki does both. Since he left Oman2day, the publication has gone downhill, and I no longer buy it.

jdl · Joined: 06 Apr 2005 Posts: 632 Location: cyberspace

To read Pinaki's writings follow the link below

http://www.pinaki.info/om_port_jim.htm

If you just scroll through the link and browse it you will find Pinaki's writings about his human adventure in The Eastern Hemisphere from Indonesia to Eastern Europe. I found his writings on Oman to be of particular interest since I have first hand experience with many of the places and people he writes about. I recommend his writing as a mandatory primer for any traveller to Oman......a modern day Thesiger.

Truly a gifted writer/blogger/photographer.