Oman part two: Nizwa

For those of you viewing this through Facebook 'Notes', the original post is available on www.henrickatlarge.blogspot.com. It will enable you access to photo galleries and other multi-media material which doesn't transfer into 'Notes'

So, I am back in Oman again. This is the second installment in the Oman series. I am still with the college of applied sciences, though I have changed campuses. I am currently in Nizwa.

There are many differences between the two cities. Nizwa is far more modern and developed. It offers many amenities simply not available in Rustaq. A former cultural center, the difference in attitude is palpable. There are hotels, and other Western conveniences that make life far more livable than what I was used to in Rustaq. It has three academic institutions (so there's more ex-pats living here), and has quite a bit of tourism coming through it. This all makes for a far less 'xenophobic' atmosphere (for the foreigners), and an all-around more pleasant living experience. It is about the same trip to Muscat. The roads are better, and driving to 'the big city' is not nearly as harrowing an experience as it was last year.

The department I'm in is far better organized than what I was used to. Compared with my former post, the college as a whole has a sane vibe, that seems to be far more conducive to work. Though the students have not showed up yet, I am fairly certain that the academic experience here will be better than that of the past.

My agent, totally rocks! This year, I have taken employment with CfBT (Center for British Teachers), and it is a very pleasurable experience so far. The level of organization, as well as genuine care put into my experience here, quite surpasses that of my former employer. They are great. From the initial application process to follow up once I was in my flat, CfBt has taken great care of me. It has made my 'transition' a relatively easy one. True, this life has its own challenges and obstacles, but CfBT has done its utmost to defray the strain of relocation and aculturalization. Well done! I recommend them to anyone planning on taking a position with the CoAS system. The 'other' agent, well... it will be far tougher than it needs to be.

I have no pictures as yet, but I promise they are on there way.