Two Years Already? | Living the Confused Expatriate Life

Two Years Already?
Living the Confused Expatriate Life, Part 6
By: Ms. Hala

I’ve passed my two year mark as an American expatriate living in Qatar this past July. WOW! Taking a moment to evaluate some of the things I’ve learned and discovered throughout this ongoing adventure I call #InLivingQatar.

As an expat:

• I’m to expect the unexpected, period.
• I know now that nothing is like how it’s done back home (nor anywhere else for that matter) and sometimes that’s a good thing.
• I’m grateful to this country for not taxing my anything.
• Not everyone is obligated to speak YOUR language. You live in Qatar, make an effort to learn the language! If you don’t speak a second language, don’t miss out on the opportunity to do so.
• Home is what you make of it. It’s the simple things from the food to the adventures that make being an expat in the Middle East oh so wonderful.

About myself:

• Apparently, I enjoy shopping for things other than shoes, office supplies, and kitchenware. I mean, when was I ever known to be one who wouldn’t miss a sale at Mango (my new found obsession) or appreciate Riva for the size 4 pants that fit my proudly curvy body? REJOICE!
• My savings isn’t very happy with the above mentioned self discovery.
• I simply don’t care anymore about the pettiest of things that just do not matter. I’m too busy laughing at the silliest of things.
• I’ve always had a thing for men in thobs, living in Qatar solidified it. Seriously, ANY MAN can look amazing in a thob.

Speaking of men:

• Dating is a coin toss which isn’t much different than it was back home. I’ve realized that when I decided to accept dating someone I probably wouldn’t have dated say three or four years ago.
• I’m still the least romantic person I know and thanks to my ex for catching on to that. =P
• Chivalry is not dead and a part of me is still caught by surprise.
• “Momken netwaseel?” or “May we keep in touch?” has to be the funniest pickup line ever! So polite yet stupid and invasive in so many ways. Especially when it’s coming from a teenager almost every single time.
• Wearing Ed Hardy outfits, I mean the whole covered from hat to shoes, never has and never ever will be cute. Walk away now.

In dealing with people:

• If you are not among good company, start by being part of a social group be it through Twitter, MeetUp, or otherwise.
• For whatever reason, the most drama queens I’ve dealt with in this country have been men.
• Don’t be surprised that there’s just as much fake people as there is fake designer wear floating around. It’s really a global epidemic sadly.
• This may be the safest country in the world but stop taking it for granted. There are people that can still break into your car, knock on your door at odd hours, and simply just not be safe for you to be around.

Here’s to another year of an adventurous #InLivingQatar! =)