I was inspired by a comment on my first blog post to write to those who might be thinking of working in GTMO as a civilian or active duty. Here is a list of things to consider. This is not complete by any means, but it should help with the decision making process:
1. It is at least 80 degrees here year round. Leave all of your winter gear in the States, you will never use it here (unless you're from the northeast and need something to visit home).
2. Earthquakes do happen, but I haven't experienced one yet since I've only been here a little over three months. I hear they haven't been a big deal in recent years.
3. You will save money here.
4. There are job and volunteer opportunities.
5. There is no decent hair salon for women. Seek a stylist out amongst the Gitmo community.
6. It takes 4-6 weeks for your household goods and cars to arrive.
7. Forget about streaming video over the internet.
8. Bring a VCR and tapes (no DVRs here from local cable provider). That's right, you heard me. :)
9. Bring small furniture. Unless you or your spouse is a high ranking officer/GS (GS 12 or above) of some sort, your housing will be on the small side.
10. Appliances are provided. Our high efficiency front loading washer and dryer was a great surprise!
11. There is always something to do here. MWR rocks!
12. The community is very welcoming and supportive. You should be able to make friends fast.
13. The beaches are not surfing friendly. However, the exchange sells surfboards for CHEAP (i.e. 7' board $40), so if you want to put one away for when you go back to the States, then get a board here.
14. The clothes and shoe shopping is mediocre.
15. This is a GREAT place to raise kids, especially if they're not in their teens yet.
16.Dining out is par at best with a few exceptions.
17. There are fast food chains here.
18. We have bowling, boating/sailing, kayaking, and scuba diving.
19. The fishing is awesome!
20. Schools are good, both K-12 and college.
21. Gossip runs rampant at GTMO so never tell what you do not want everyone to know.
22. Sea glass is everywhere!
23. We have a great baby sitter.
24. We get first run movies free everyday including double features on Fridays and Saturdays.
25. Keep reading blogs like this and do as much research on GTMO as you can on the internet before you get here. That's what we did, and we were well prepared.
Overall, it is what you make of it. Embrace it or be miserable. Either way it is up to you.
