 | DAY 0 |
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My cousin Aida and I had briefly mentioned going to Yemen together one day. We never made definite plans. I received an email one day saying that she was ready to go in a few weeks, and was I to join her? I was hesitant at first. I found some old books on Yemen and browsed through the pictures; they weren't great quality, but I realized it was a land that could be captivating. I decided this was a trip I wasn't going to miss out on... These are the accounts and images of that trip. A few days before departure I was thinking about my upcoming trip to Yemen. I realized that I was a little nervous about traveling there. Such different people, different habits, outlooks, thoughts, food, scenery, etc. I'm sure it's unlike what I am used to... Then I realized how idiotic it must be of me to be scared of others like me. I mean they're just human after all... I'm only going to another place on mother earth, how different can it possible be? We are essentially the same after all; as are different places around the globe. We function the same, we need the same things, we have so many similarities that defy the bounds of language, religion, color, and even space-time. And anyway does it really matter that it is different "on the outside"? Departure Day Almost 6pm. Well this is it. I've made it as far as Gatwick Airport (Washington and Amsterdam before this). Waiting to board my Yemenia flight, still no gate or set departure time. It seems we'll be stopping in Rome. I see Arab looking men and covered women in the main area of the terminal, and wonder if we're all going to the same destination. 7pm. One step ahead. We're now at the gate and the plane is being loaded. I'm already intrigued by the women. I wish I knew how describe the different ways of dress. Those that are more westernized, those that look like Bedouins, those whose jewellery crinkles as they move, the different way they tie their head scarves. The men glance my way, with their dark intent eyes. The children are showing signs of great curiosity and talkativeness. I can imagine the swarms of children in villages - I felt uncomfortable being surrounded by fish when snorkeling, how will I feel then?! I realize I'm not used to crowds - except Los Angeles traffic where we're all boxed up in cars! I hear two women in front of me speak and I cannot understand. They're muttering, and doing so very fast. I can't get a catch of a single phrase or word! I think we will board soon. Onwards... |