Larry Four-Days

The most memorable part of the orientation I went through when I moved to Qatar was the presentation by the US embassy, given by someone known ever after as Larry Four-Days.

In the process of cleaning up my files before leaving, I just found my notes from his presentation. They go like this:

• no PDAs beyond holding hands (esp. if gay)
• many plainclothes police
• DUI automatic 4-day jail term
• swearing/derog. comments 4-day jail term
• Call embassy if end up in jail. (Larry will bring McDonald's)
• blah blah blah.
• Don't forget to change contact info as needed

That's it, that's the sum of guidance the US embassy provided upon our relocation to Qatar. What thoughtful insight into US-Qatar relations! Thanks, Larry Four-Days, wherever you are; I raise a McFlurry to your memory.