It is somewhat traumatic to start a new life in a new to a place, even with all of the creature comforts that I am afforded with my job. For me, the first week is the worst with many tears and unanswered frustrations. And it’s just lonely. Everyone and everything that you are familiar with is very, very far away. It’s rough.

But then slowly, something starts to happen and stuff become a tad less frustrating and little by little, things become more familiar and more manageable.

For instance, all I am going to say about my new apartment is that it is not my Istanbul apartment. Let’s say that if my apartment in Cihangir was my most favorite dessert in the entire world (my mom’s homemade chocolate brownies with vanilla ice cream, topped with chocolate sauce), my new apartment is a Hershey’s Kiss. Still good, does the job, but not quite as decadent. However, the location is unbeatable as I am a five minute walk to school and the Mall of Emirates (which is turning out to be a cultural phenomenon all on its own). And my doorman helped me with my IKEA (heavy lifting) items. Let’s be honest, that was pretty clutch in a very weary week.

One of the fellow new teachers commented that seeing the Dubai skyline reminded him of the Emerald City in the Wizard of Oz. I could not agree more. It is stunning and I simply cannot wait to explore the architecture more. No two buildings are alike and on some, I was like… concrete, bricks, and steal can do that??? Really, this place seems like a playground for architects. Also, the geometric design. I swear I have fallen in love all over again. I just can’t wait to run my hands over the patterns that have been around for hundreds of years.

I just had my first weekend here (Friday and Saturday… Sunday is my new Monday) and it felt good to just relax, get my apartment organized, and visit with some friends.

A note about the heat. It is hot here. Last Wednesday it was so hot that it burned my eyes the moment I stepped outside. However, as I walked over to a friend’s house last night, I must say that (surprisingly) the heat felt kind of good. It was a small moment, but a welcome one.

There are still many unanswered frustrations, which is par for the course at this point in my journey. However, I am looking forward to exploring this new city. The Emerald City awaits!