THERE is an old ride in Disney’s Magic Kingdom called the Carrousel of Progress; it is one is one of my favorite since I grew up with all of Walt Disney’s ideas. The ride is about the progress experienced by an American family and it is shown in a typical American home in the 1930’s, the 1950’s, 1970’s and on into the 21st century. I always enjoyed the ride and liked to take my children with me. And they always asked the same question, “What happens next? Are we going into outer space next?” Are we? We have made many things which only a few years ago were unimaginable. Surely we will not neglect the frontiers of the sea and sky. It seems that the big dreamers like Walt Disney are no more. The carrousel of progress — and imagination — seems to have stopped in its tracks, or at least lost its glamour.
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Dear Nadia,
I am originally from Brazil but my family immigrated in the 1980’s to the United States so I speak English and Portuguese fluently. I have been working in Saudi Arabia for two years now and I have picked some words and expressions from my Saudi friends. I would love to learn Arabic since my business contract is for two more years. Can you advise me on how and what is the best and most affordable way to learn the language?
— Rodriguez, New Mexico
Dear Rodriguez, with dedication you can learn it. I could tell you to enroll in a school but you would probably end up paying lots and learning little. The best way to learn a language though interaction with the speakers of the language. Another way — and it will teach you to write as well — is to use children’s story books that come with cassettes. It sounds silly, but believe me it is the shortest and most easy way to learn any language ever. The third is by watching TV and if you are easy-going, I advise you to watch children’s Arabic programs. Best of luck, Nadia.
Dear Nadia,
My hobby is collecting valuable handmade items. I always look for originals and good deals. I am not very concerned with the price if the piece is an original. My job took me all over the world and wherever I went, I always asked for local arts and crafts and then bought the best I could find. I am very proud of my collection and look forward to adding to it. Currently I am on a trip to the Gulf; I have already bought a Yemeni dagger — a janbiah — with precious stones. I understand there is a famous market in Saudi Arabia for men’s cloaks — the bisht and I would like to know where it is located.
— Simon, Texas
Dear Simon, I salute you for your hobby, and I am sure you have a great collection. The best market for a bisht is in Al-Ahsa. They are a bit expensive but they are handmade and you will not find anything else of that quality and fineness. Best of luck, Nadia.
