Working in the Middle East or South America as an expat

[Bumbles8]

Has anyone on here worked in the Middle East or South America as an expat?

Was it an enjoyable experience and was the money worth the negatives?

I have been with my current company for 2 years now (in the states) and am considering a job change.  I have a degree in mechanical engineering but most my practical experience is managing people/equipment for a manufacturing facility.

I'd be willing to re-start as an entry level engineer if needed.

Also, if you have experience in it, how did you find the job overseas?  Also, was it in the oil and gas sector or something else?

I'll list my personal pros and cons from a top level

Pro's:  high pay, live somewhere foreign, get to travel the area, more culture, unique life experience

Con's:  potential culture shock from conservative laws, being super far from home (not super worried), volatility in oil and gas sector

Thanks for the responses

[Better Change]

Important question: are you male or female?  Because I think that would weigh heavily on the decision, especially for the Middle East.

I always get the impression that expats in those environments basically live in sheltered compounds.  Not a whole lot of "enjoying the experience."  I know people who went to Saudi Arabia (for 2x the salary!), and it didn't seem particularly glamorous....

I think it really depends on your personality.

[Bumbles8]

Valid point - I'm a guy

Also, I think I would be fine in a compound.  I don't need a big city, just a few people to talk to every now and then