Every story is different, I get that and he/she gets that.
HOUSING: Things we have in common though, tend to be living conditions, which range from dorm buildings, tents, or CHU style rooms. Tents are rarely the case so no worries there. Depending on location living conditions can be really nice.
FOOD: Now lets get to food,, this can be the tricky part because from my experience it all depends on the contracting company thats in charge of food services, such as in Afghanistan i can personally, they wont let you starve to death but its no 5 star meal. With Iraq, well it was actually really good and you have tons of choices.
GYMS: dont even worry about this part lol you will have gyms all over, from small but usable to so large and nice that you feel as if you should pay a membership. Also you can get everything for free, such as checking body fat and trainers. Crossfit, yoga and misc classes are available.
WEATHER: Middle east work is what you would expect for the most part,, Its the desert so hot as hell in the summer and cold as shit in the winter depending on location. Dont expect crazy amounts of rain.
WIFI and CELL SERVICE: You will have choices:) most companies will give you free wifi which works well, but there is an option to pay for what is known as DHI, which is the really highspeed shit! well i mean up to 5mb per sec, its also $165 a month but worth it if you love gaming and acquiring movies and things online.
LIFESTYLE: Anything but normal is a good way to explain things. Ground hog day everyday, limited things to do but trust me you make it work. The people really make the place doable and you will meet I swear to you some of the best people you will ever meet and have lifetime friends. Theses friends are also good because you all are making money so you get to surround yourself with positive energy and people that can become future venture partners.
WORK: This is the part people really want to know about I'm guessing. Every company will have its issues but the short form of the story is, keep your eye on whats important and as to why you traveled all the way around the world,,, MONEY! just do your job and you can never be wrong. dont argue because you will be wasting oxygen and brain cells with people who are only concerned with keeping corporate happy.