Has anyone been to Iraq or Afghanistan other than through the military?

Question

For example working for the State Dept. or private contractors, or the media. What was it like there? If you worked there, was it good pay and an easy job? Would you do it over again. What kind of accomodations did you have?

Answer 1

I worked in Afghanistan for a Canadian company but we contracted for the Canadian Military. I liked it although we didn't leave the camp much. It was fun though, like living in a comune or something. We socialized a lot and there was a good sense of community. We lived in tents but we had our own rooms. Yeah it was good pay but I got bored sometimes but it was good experience. I wouldn't do it over because I did it for too long and got burned out. I will always remember my time their fondly. The main reason I did it was that you get good travel benefits. I traveled a lot for free and that was great. I have known a few people who worked in Afghanistan for NGOs or jsut for European companies and they said they like it. It is a dirty, dirty country though. And I have met people who work in Iraq and they don't like it, too stressful and dangerous and not worth the money.

Answer 2

I volunteered in Northern Afghanistan. The office I was working with made an effort to connect with locals as much as possible so I wore the clothes (sometimes) ate their food (and got sick sometimes) endured the locals toilets (or lack thereof - make sure you keep toilet paper with you!) It can be very tough getting projects completed with many dynamics working against you.
But it was a great experience the Afghan people are wonderful - too often missed by foreigner workers who never step out of their western bubbles. It depends on where you go and the organization you go with as to whether you get to experience the real country if you go. ether way I would suggest that you go.
But a word of caution if you plan to go, leave you western party attitude behind. Afghans are becoming more and more frustrated with Westerners bringing alcohol and prostitutes in to the country. don't be a stench to the locals.