Made The Move

[darrenS]

i tend to think in dangerous places , firstly you learn the language , learn the customs, find some tethers of community fabric and use them, a couple of soccer balls for kids etc etc , taking a weaponry type of approach when your alone , rarely works and only sets you up for being killed , particularly if its a group like rebels or bandits. Your a journalist and can use those skills both ways. I always found the things that made the locals laugh and then used it to my advantage. Of course your going to face some hard arses and they may very well interview or check you out, relax be calm and give them no reason to feel threatened by you...you know the drill Casey - stay calm and use it...Good Luck

 

[Deleted member 28740]

At of times my relocations (short or long term) I find a hair dresser. Get a full session of…. most seem very sociable, know the skinny on just about everything, and like to talk. Pick there brain from the trivial to the important, naive but not silly, little bit of world travel under your belt, but this is a whole new experience and how to make the best of it. How to read the politics, and the people, what neighborhoods are dodgy. Bring a map to the session. And tip well of course. Reschedule, to keep a good contact. May need a cover story worked out as to why you are there if you are in a stealthy MO. Good on 'ya and hope it is a great adventure and success.

 

[Powder]

Is there a UB Embassy or Ambassador's home you can stay at? Those are usually well defended and staffed by trained service people.

If not, don't "be American." Live with a local family or church, preferably one who looks similar to you, so you blend in and look natural. Completely blend into the background. Listen to local TV and radio. Buy your clothes used and local. Do your hair, and style as a local, and don't be a target. Don't speak unless you have to, and use any accent you like, even a made up one.

When I lived abroad, even when I was with my family, people thought I was a local. I did this on purpose.

Also, I find a padlock makes a handy thing to carry in the pocket. It is cheap, convenient, comfortable in the hand, slipping one or two fingers through the loop. A perfect brass knuckle.

 

[Casey_03]

@Muse I like your idea but it won't work where I'm going -- the rebels will have to check my passport before even allowing me into their territory. There is always the chance they just won't let me in ... who knows.

 

[VioletButterfly]

OMG. I don't even know what to say. I haven't known your history, but what you're taking on is HUGE in my comparatively little world. Please stay safe and I will pray for you. From what you've responded, you know that you are making the best decisions for yourself, given your options. This is so different from my world - my traumas and situation are different, but I can appreciate your courage and strengths in what you are doing in the name of your life's passion. Whatever happened with the other job you were going to return to Russia to audition for? God speed! VB

 

[Powder]

Does your PTSD feel like it's in remission whilst dealing with current survival mode? Just curious. For me, this used to invigorate me, like John in the new Sherlock.

But anymore, it's too jagged, now that I have kids. So I think it all depends.

I just want you to be safe and come home.