First Tour in Iraq as a Guide

I am in Iraq. Iraq.

I arrive at the airport, clear immigration, and visa on arrival for Australians – who knew it was so easy? My passport is now forever stamped with the nation. I am with a client, so I do my best to act like I know the protocol. Security check, baggage claim, and now get to the hotel. As per instructions, walk out, and the first taxi stand right in front of you will take you to the hotel. Easy, or so I thought, but I see multiple taxi stands; if common sense prevailed in the moment, I could have concluded that all had passed adequate security clearance. Anyway!

After some confusion and deep-down trust issues, I got into a taxi that looked more like a ’90s SUV that could do with a thorough clean than a cab, but anyway – safety is the main priority. Despite the urge for foreign and strange things, I started feeling uneasy and nostalgic for the familiar. Bomb checks, loud noises and sniffer dogs that look cute at first wear off quickly. Especially given they happen five times.

It’s 1 am, and the drive to the hotel is about 40 minutes, but at this point, despite four flights, I am awake; I can’t believe I am here. Halfway through the endeavour, I catch my first glimpse of the Tigris River; despite being dark, it is lively, with music playing, shisha everywhere and my suspicion despite arguing alcohol. However, the chaos ironically brings calm – youth on the street in the early morning, reminiscent of any other city, makes it feel natural and familiar, although no females were spotted.

Finally, we arrive at the Baghdad hotel, which is incredible, YPT, the company I work for, have always made it a priority to stay there, and I finally understand why. I check in, and despite knowing I start my first official day in 6 hours, I can’t help but do a photoshoot of the room. I like wallpaper; who knew? I set my alarm six times, as I am notorious for sleeping through them and cannot be late on my first day.

As it turns out, it was the most uncomplicated early morning call I have ever arisen for; I am ready. So I shower, put on my outfit and remind myself that every degree change, failure, and success led me to this moment, and it’s the exact job I want, now is my time. Yes, I am nervous.

I walk down early, or so I think, forgetting I am not a breakfast person and the group has already become well acquainted. So, lesson number one – go-to breakfast day one.

As I arrive and greet everyone, I almost feel like I am on show, and naturally can’t help but question what they are thinking. For a moment, I let my insecurities get the best of me after hearing about the long journeys people have taken that have brought them here. I can’t help but let my age and inexperience in the role plague my mind, but at this point, I play it off okay.

As luck would have it, a client was wearing a Kokoda shirt – not only was it a reminder of the paths I have taken, but I also knew I had found someone with an experience and perhaps a connection that no one else could understand. Before sparking the conversation, someone says, “when are we leaving” I, as confidently as possible, say, “give me a moment”, deep down, knowing I need more than a moment. I have no clue what is going on.

But this is my job; this is my dream, and at this point, seeing an Iraqi falafel would be enough to make me smile.

Bring it on!