Observations

I have been living in Doha, Qatar for three months now.  I have experienced culture-shock, lonilness, happiness, fascination, excitement...many interesting and vastly different things to experience here in the Middle East. 

Without judgements here are some observations...

In the summer months June, July & August, the cold warter tap releases warm water and the hot water tap releases cool water (water is stored in tanks outside)

Water in toilet bowls is warm

Tiny ants can be found everywhere

Stray-wild cats (feral) are everywhere

Round-a-bouts are where agressive, fast drivers have fun

There are very few places to turn left

Jackets are needed in shopping malls

Women wearing long black abayas generally are wearing very expensive, and very high heeled shoes

Arab men and woman wear very nice smelling collogne/perfume

Arabic is a difficult language to speak (for most North Americans)

Contridictions can be found everywhere

Liquor licenses are required to purchase alcohol.  Alcohol is only sold at one place which is ran by the State of Qatar.  Your employer may deny you access to alcohol.

In order to leave the country your employer must grant you approval

In order to change jobs in the country your employer must grant you a NOC - No Objection Certificate

Individual homes and all compounds (mini-communities) are surrounded by high walls - designed to protect your privacy

Qataris are permitted to have up to three wives each, many can only afford to have one

The temperature outside makes your earings burn your neck

Touching your steering wheel after your car has been outside in the sun for 15 minutes will burn your hands

Dance clubs can be found everywhere

Sand can seep in through the smallest crack

Honking is accecptable

Most vehicles are white

Most Arabs drive white SUV's

Displays of affection is acceptable between men, hand holding, nose rubbing, walking arm in arm

Pork is illegal to bring into the country

Change rooms post this notice:  "Nudity can offend some, please respect local customs"

Obesity is rare

I am about to make my first return trip to Canada.  Seeing women walking around in shorts and tank tops will likely surpise me, as will public displays of affection between men and women.  I look forward to returning to North America, hugging and kissing my kids, visiting with family and friends, being able to buy wine at the corner liquor store, and smelling fresh cut grass.