Unexpected Opportunities of Being an Expatriate

Living and working as an expatriate is an opportunity in itself. From time to time however, I have learned that other unexpected opportunities present themselves that make expat living even more a worthwhile experience.

Recently, I received an invitation for Thanksgiving dinner at the chief U.S. Ambassador's residence. A few days later, my wife received an invitation from the chief ambassador of the United Arab Emirates for us to dine at the U.A.E. embassy, celebrating the nation's 42nd anniversary.

The U.S. Ambassador served us a traditional Thanksgiving feast, made more savory by the fact that we live in Turkmenistan. The meal including delicious turkey imported from Germany, ham, stuffing, sweet potato casserole, green beans, steamed spinach, salad, cranberry sauce, and bread.  We all enjoyed ourselves, and were very thankful for the ambassador opening up his residence to us and providing us with a taste of home.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) entered its 42nd year of united independence. To commemorate the event, the chief ambassador of the UAE hosted an evening celebration at the UAE embassy in Ashgabat. For myself, the highlight of the evening was having the pleasure of meeting the chief ambassador of the UAE. Representatives from many nations also attended. The embassy  was lavishly decorated inside and out. Throughout the embassy, works of art and other displays depicted the UAE's historical and cultural heritage. The dinning tables had fresh mangoes, assorted breads, and deserts awaiting guests. The chairs were covered in a rich red fabric, with gold embroidered falcons, the UAE's national seal. For dinner, a wide variety of delicious ethnic dishes were available. While dining, women and girls donning fine traditional dress continually went among the tables, passing out assorted chocolates and other sweets.

We had the chance to pose with one of two falcon handlers at the UAE reception. The falcon is used as the UAE's national seal.

A gift we received from the UAE ambassador. The plaque includes silver symbols of the UAE, a UAE coin collection, and sand art representing traditional desert life; it is made from sand from within the boundaries of the UAE.