A Gentleman’s Word
Opinions on the prevailing state of affairs
ON AFGHANISTAN
So, 2021 continues not to disappoint as an absolute shocker. We all bear witness to the scenes of people fleeing Afghanistan. So desperate were some, that clinging onto a moving airplane was considered a better option than staying under the rule of the Taliban. Thoughts and prayers go to the Afghan population as people and countries open their doors and homes to those lucky enough to flee the country. Let’s hope that for those who remain, they stay safe and that the Taliban who themselves look to be taken seriously on the worldwide stage respect the lives of those who live under their control. Lots of local initiatives are being set up, so we can all donate clothing and money for those in need.
ON TRAVELLING DURING A PANDEMIC
Covid-19 and vaccinations seem to be becoming a part of our normal day to day and makes the return of travel a whole new lottery. Particularly if you find out that you are positive whilst planning your return flight home. We have heard countless stories of people being forced into hotel quarantines whilst on holiday. So, my only advice would be to make sure you take your work laptop with you. That way, at least you are taking steps to not get fired on your return.
We received some good news from the UK which prompted the amazing advert from Emirates with the announcement of the UAE moving onto the Amber List. This is great, but still frustrating as the UK continues to only acknowledge European and US vaccination programmes – which is odd given the Oxford-AstraZeneca batch that we all received is the same batch that 5 million Brits also received. Let’s hope that the UK gets over itself and acknowledges the hard work that has been done by the UAE to make us one of the most vaccinated countries in the world.
ON FOOTBALL
With all that is going on in the world, the start of the football season has brought plenty of distraction with Messi moving to PSG and the whole drama surrounding Harry Kane on a potential move to Manchester City. There were lots of rumours as to why Kane was late for training, and I am sure we will find out more about his desert island vacation if the GBP150m transfer does go ahead. One thing we do know about Spurs, and the very shrewd Daniel Levy, is that they will have calculated the potential revenues lost if Kane does depart and so will not release him if the P&L does not end in a profit – which explains the price tag and negotiation tactics employed. Sadly, for Kane, he will probably miss out on an opportunity to play in one of the best footballing squads ever assembled and will be left to hope that this year, more than any other year, the Spurs will win some form of trophy.
ON COMEDIAN SEAN LOCK
I was very sad on hearing about the passing of the English comedian Sean Lock. The comic world went into mourning on hearing the news that the 8 Out of 10 Cats star died aged 58 of lung cancer. If you are not aware of Lock’s work, it is well worth a Google search. Lots of his fans have been resharing his funniest moments, so celebrate his passing and give it a watch. It will make you smile and remind you that life is for living, so enjoy every moment. Keep an eye out for the spoof book The Tiger Who Came for a Pint which fans are pushing to get published in Lock’s honour.
ON EXPO 2020
With Expo 2020 now fast approaching, we are all eager to see what the global event and its pavilions representing countries from all over the world have in store for us. The delay of the event has meant that Expo’s opening coincides with borders opening up and puts Dubai at the epicentre of a post-Covid global business recovery. Exciting times and history in the making as we get ready to welcome the world to our door.