✨ 2023, ah 2023... ✨

Here we go: Let's take a bite of stereotypes specifically those surrounding California and its women. Now, before we start, let's remember that stereotypes are just that - stereotypes. They're broad generalizations that absolutely don't apply to everyone. But they can be a fun way to explore cultural perceptions, especially when we approach them with a sense of humor. So, grab your surfboard, your green juice, and your yoga mat, and let's ride this wave together!

First off, let's address the elephant in the room: the most popular - "Valley Girl" stereotype. Thanks to the 1980s and movies like "Clueless," many people think of Californian girls as ditzy, superficial, and perpetually tanned individuals who pepper their speech with "likes" and "totallys." But let's be real here. California is the most populous state in the US., with a diverse population of over 39 million people. To suggest that all the girls living around here are Valley Girls is like saying all New Yorkers are rude - it's an assumption that doesn't hold water when you actually get to know the people. 

But can't totally dismiss the Valley Girl. After all, she's become a cultural icon. And let's face it, who among us hasn't used "like" as a filler word or ended a sentence with a question mark? "I know, right?" Plus, the Valley Girl image has given us some hilarious moments in pop culture. Anyone remember the "SNL" skit with Nicolas Cage as a Valley Girl? Comedy gold!

Next up, we have the "Surfer Girl". According to this one, all Cali girls are sun-kissed, bikini-clad surfers who spend their days riding the waves and their nights around a beach bonfire. While it's true that California has some of the best surfing spots in the world, not everyone is a surfer (Not saying that I'm not but...). Shocking, I know! Some of us can't even stand on a surfboard without face-planting into the water. But hey, at least we're providing entertainment for the real surfers, right?

Then there's the "Health Nut" shot. This one basically states that all local ladies are obsessed with yoga, veganism, and green juice. Now, it's true that Cali is known for its health-conscious culture. We have a ton of organic farms, vegan restaurants, and yoga studios. But not all of us are sipping kale smoothies while doing a headstand. Some of us prefer a good old-fashioned burger and a Netflix binge. And that's okay! Balance is key, right? 

Finally, we have the "Hollywood Starlet". This one is all about the glitz and glamour of Hollywood. According to this story, all C-girls are aspiring actresses who spend their days going to auditions and their nights at glamorous parties. But here's a reality check: Hollywood is just a small part of the area. Most of us are more likely to be stuck in traffic on the 405 than walking the red carpet. 

So there you have it, folks. The stories and imagination about California and Californian girls are as diverse as the state itself. But remember, these are just stereotypes. The real Cali is full of people from all backgrounds and dimensions. 

And now, for a bit of fun, time to imagine what would happen if all of these were combined into one super girl. Picture this: a sun-kissed, bikini-clad surfer who spends her mornings catching waves, her afternoons at yoga class, and her evenings at Hollywood parties. She's a vegan who only drinks green juice, but she also loves In-N-Out Burger (animal style, of course). She peppers her speech with "likes" and "totallys," but she's also a tech genius who's working on her own startup. Oh, and she's also an aspiring actress who's just one audition away from her big break. Sounds exhausting, doesn't it?

Let's not forget the other, less glamorous, but equally important aspects of being a Californian girl. Like the fact that we're also known for our resilience in the face of natural disasters. We've survived earthquakes, wildfires, and droughts. Remember the hurri-quake Hilary a few weeks ago, huh? No matter how long we are here, we've learned to conserve water, to be prepared for emergencies, and to help our neighbors in times of need. We're not just Valley Girls or Surfer Girls or Health Nuts or Hollywood Starlets. We're also Firefighters' Girls, Earthquake Girls, Drought Girls and... Flight attendants ;). We're strong, we're resilient, and we're proud of our state, despite its challenges.

Ah, and the superpower of spying better than FBI, hacking everyone's devices and sending spicy content to all the area... Not all of us are coding geniuses, special agents or tech entrepreneurs. Some of us can barely figure out how to update our iPhones.

In the end, the beauty of California and its women lies in our diversity. We come from all paths of experience, of life, and we each bring something unique to the table. We're more than just the stereotypes that people often associate with us. We're complex, we're multifaceted, and we're proud of who we are.

So, the next time you meet a girl from the land of golden beaches, high waves and always green palm trees, remember this: she's not just a stereotype. She's a unique individual with her own story to tell. And who knows? You might be so surprised by what you've found.

And to all the Cali girls out there, keep being you. Keep breaking bullshit, keep pushing boundaries, and keep showing the world what it means to be a Californian girl. Because at the end of the day, we're not just Valley Girls, Surfer Girls, Health Nuts, Hollywood Starlets, or Tech Girls. We're C-Girls, by birth or not, but we are - and we wouldn't have it any other way.

Today we're taking a wild ride through the sun-kissed boulevards, the foggy hills, and the avocado-filled grocery stores of the one and only - California. California, the Golden State, is a place where dreams come true, or so they say (but no matter what they say, I confirm, it's a dream factory). 

It's a place where you can surf in the morning, ski in the afternoon, and still have time for a Hollywood premiere in the evening. It's a place where you can find a vegan, gluten-free, non-GMO, ethically sourced, fair-trade, locally grown, organic kale smoothie on every corner. And it's also a place where you can experience all four seasons in a single day, if you're brave enough to venture from the sunny beaches to the snowy mountains. 

First things first, let's talk about the weather. California is famous for its sunny, warm climate, but let me tell you, it's not always sunshine and rainbows. Sometimes it's sunshine and...fog. Yes, you heard it right. If you're living in San Francisco, you'll get to know our dear friend, Karl the Fog. Karl is like that uninvited guest who shows up at your party and refuses to leave. One moment you're enjoying a sunny day at the beach, and the next, you're engulfed in a chilly, gray mist. But hey, it's all part of the charm, right? 

Now, let's move on to the food. California is a foodie's paradise. From the freshest seafood in San Francisco, to the best Mexican food outside of Mexico in San Diego, to the gourmet food trucks in LA, there's something for everyone. And can't forget about the avocados. Oh, the avocados! They're everywhere. They're in your salad, they're on your toast, they're in your smoothie. They're even in your ice cream. Yes, avocado ice cream is a thing here. And it's surprisingly delicious. But beware, the price of avocados can fluctuate more than Bitcoin. One day you're buying a bag for $5, the next day it's $20. It's a high-stakes game, my friends. 

Living in California also means sharing your space with some interesting wildlife. And by interesting, I mean raccoons that can open your trash cans, coyotes that roam the streets at night, and squirrels that are so bold they'll practically take the food right out of your hand. And remember about the mountain lions. Yes, mountain lions. They're like the celebrities of the animal kingdom here. Rarely seen, but always talked about. 

Speaking of celebrities, time to talk about Hollywood. Living in California, especially in Los Angeles, means you're always just one degree of separation from someone famous. Your barista might be an aspiring actor, your Uber driver might be a screenwriter, and your neighbor might be a reality TV star. You might even find yourself in the background of a movie scene while you're just going about your day (yes, yes, true story - but hola hola, it happens also in one beautiful island called Santorini...). It's like living in a perpetual episode of "Entourage." 

But it's not all glitz and glamour. Living in California also means dealing with traffic. Oh, the traffic. It's like a never-ending game of Tetris, but with cars. You haven't truly experienced California until you've sat in bumper-to-bumper traffic on the 405 during rush hour. It's a rite of passage. It's a test of patience. It's a lesson in the art of car karaoke. And let's not even get started on the parking. Finding a parking spot in LA is like finding a unicorn (and I'm one of them). It's a mythical creature that everyone talks about but no one has actually seen. You might find yourself circling the block for what feels like hours, only to end up parking a mile away from your destination. But hey, at least it's good exercise, right? 

Thinking of exercise, good to mention the fitness culture. California is the land of yoga pants and green juice. It's a place where hiking is considered a social activity and where "spin class" is a legitimate answer to the question, "What are you doing this weekend?" It's a place where people take their dogs surfing and where rollerblading is still a thing. Yes, rollerblading - now you know why I have kinda lot of rollerblading pics on my Instagram, huh? It's like the '90s never left. But it's not all about the physical here. 

California is also a hub for tech and innovation. Silicon Valley, located in the Bay Area, is home to some of the biggest tech companies in the world. It's a place where self-driving cars are a common sight and where people talk about algorithms and artificial intelligence like it's casual dinner conversation. It's a place where everyone has a start-up idea and where the phrase "I'm in between jobs" actually means "I'm working on my app." 

Now a minute for the natural beauty. From the stunning coastline of Big Sur, to the towering redwoods of Sequoia National Park, to the breathtaking views of Yosemite, California is a nature lover's paradise. It's a place where you can watch the sunrise over the desert in Joshua Tree, then admire the sunset over the ocean in Malibu. It's a place where you can go whale watching in the morning, then stargaze in the desert at night. 

But despite all its quirks and eccentricities, there's something truly magical about California. It's a place where anything seems possible. It's a place where you can be whoever you want to be.  Where you can feel like a hero or a celebrity. It's a place where you can chase your dreams, no matter how big or small. It's a place where you can find beauty in the unexpected, from the fog rolling in over the Golden Gate Bridge, to the sight of a mountain lion in your backyard. 

It's a place where you can find community, whether it's among the surfers at Huntington Beach, the artists in Venice, or the techies in Silicon Valley. 

So yes, California might be a land of traffic and expensive avocados, of foggy days and celebrity sightings, of start-ups and fitness fanatics. But it's also a land of dreamers and doers, of innovators and creators, of diversity and acceptance. It's a place that's as complex as it is captivating, as challenging as it is rewarding. It's a place that, once you've experienced, you'll never forget. And that, my friends, is the wild ride that is California. 

Now, let's jump onto the cultural roller-coaster. This state is a kaleidoscope of cultures, a place where you can hear a symphony of languages in a single city block. You can find Little Italy, Chinatown, Little Saigon, Little Ethiopia, and more, all within the confines of the Golden State. It's like a world tour without ever leaving the state (so why to be a flight attendant and fly around the world if I have it all here, huh?). And with this cultural diversity comes a plethora of festivals and celebrations. From the colorful parades of Chinese New Year to the vibrant dances of Cinco de Mayo, there's always a reason to celebrate in California. 

And speaking of celebrations, let's talk about wine. California is the wine country of the US. The vineyards of Napa and Sonoma are like the Beverly Hills of grapes. They're where the rich and famous of the wine world reside. A wine tour in these regions is a must for any wine enthusiast. But be warned, after a day of wine tasting, you might find yourself buying a case of wine that costs more than your monthly rent. But hey, who needs to eat when you have wine, right? 

Now, dive and move on to the sports scene. California is home to some of the most successful sports teams in the country. From the Golden State Warriors in basketball to the San Francisco Giants in baseball, to the LA Galaxy in soccer, there's a team for every sports fan. And remember about the surfers (that's me haha). They're the real athletes here. They battle the waves like gladiators in an arena, with the Pacific Ocean as their battleground. It's a thrilling spectacle that's quintessentially Californian. 

Oh, spectacles, there's of course the fashion scene. California is the birthplace of casual chic. It's a place where flip-flops are considered acceptable footwear for almost any occasion and where it's perfectly normal to wear sunglasses indoors. It's a place where you can wear a bikini top as a bra and where wearing a hoodie to a business meeting is not only acceptable but also fashionable. It's a place where the dress code is "come as you are" and where individuality is celebrated. 

And the music scene? From the hip-hop beats of Compton to the indie rock vibes of Silver Lake, to the country tunes of Bakersfield, California is a symphony of sounds. It's a place where you can find a music festival every weekend and where garage bands are as common as garages. It's a place where you can hear live music at the grocery store, at the beach, even at the airport (ughhh, if it wasn't noisy enough). It's like living in a never-ending music festival. 

This big star - Burning Man, can't be forgotten! This annual event, held in the Nevada desert, is like the unofficial state fair of California. It's a place where the weird, the wild, and the wonderful come together in a celebration of art, self-expression, and community. It's a place where you can see a man juggling fire, a woman riding a giant mechanical seahorse, and a group of people dancing in a dust storm, all in the same day. It's a place where the unexpected is the norm and where the only rule is to be yourself. 

But wait, wait, wait... There are also some really cool places producing experts of this planet... California is home to some of the top universities in the world, including Stanford, UC Berkeley, and Caltech. It's a place where innovation and creativity are nurtured, where the next generation of leaders, thinkers, and doers are being shaped. It's a place where you can study anything from quantum physics to puppetry, from artificial intelligence to ancient history. It's a place where knowledge is power and where education is valued (and this made me feel a need of studying and growing my knowledge under the American flag too).

Now... The mysterious side of California... Booo!This state is home to some of the most intriguing and unexplained phenomena. From the eerie silence of the Mojave Desert to the strange lights over the San Francisco Bay, there's always something that defies explanation (like actually most of the stuff happening around lol). And let's not forget about the Winchester Mystery House in San Jose, a mansion with staircases that lead to nowhere and doors that open to walls. It's said to be haunted by the ghosts of those killed with Winchester rifles. Spooky, right?

And speaking of spooky, let's sneak into the Hollywood Forever Cemetery. This is not your average graveyard. It's a place where you can find the final resting places of some of Hollywood's biggest stars, from Judy Garland to Johnny Ramone. It's also a place where you can watch classic movies on a giant outdoor screen, with the stars above and the stars below. It's a uniquely Californian experience.

Almost the end, but we have also not-so-sci-fi future in creation in here, just around the neighborhood - SpaceX. This aerospace manufacturer and space transport services company, founded by Elon Musk, is pushing the boundaries of what's possible. From launching rockets to colonizing Mars, they're turning science fiction into science fact. It's a testament to the pioneering spirit that's so characteristic of California. Do you guys think that one day I'll switch from airplanes to space rockets and change flying around Earth to flying around Mars? Don't be so serious, just kidding ;)  

Now, we are reaching my favorite part - Natural disasters. From earthquakes to wildfires, California is a place where Mother Nature reminds us of her power (yes, humans are still not the most powerful creatures in the world). It's a place where you can experience the ground shaking beneath your feet and see the sky turn orange from the flames. It's a place where resilience is tested and where community comes together in times of crisis, happening more and more often. Ah, and hurricanes, tornados and floods... They love us here too, right?

And speaking of community, let's talk about the people. Californians are a breed of their own. They're dreamers and doers, innovators and creators. They're people who aren't afraid to take risks, to push boundaries, to think outside the box (that's why I fit in so well). They're people who embrace diversity, who champion equality, who fight for what they believe in. They're people who make California the unique, vibrant, and dynamic place that it is, and that I truly fell in love with.

So, there you have it. The wild ride that is California. It's a place of sunshine and fog, of avocados and tech start-ups, of Hollywood stars and mountain lions. It's a place of beauty and chaos, of dreams and challenges, of the ordinary and the extraordinary. It's a place that's as unpredictable as it is unforgettable. It's a place that, once you've experienced, you'll never forget. And that, my friends, is the crazy, mysterious, and utterly captivating charm of my California.

Cheers for you guys, drinking my favorite malibu to the rhythm of ocean waves and enjoying the beach life 🥥🌴

Hi there, fellow adventurers! Buckle up, because I'm about to take you on a wild, hilarious, and unforgettable journey. Picture this: a group of cabin crew members, fresh from a long-haul flight, embarking on an adventure in the heart of Japan. Our destination? Tokyo Disney World! 

Our story begins as we enjoyed our first moments in Asia, being totally drowned in the jetlag, but the anticipation of our layover adventure kept our spirits high. We quickly checked the area, made a plan accompanied by a huge brainstorm and hopped onto the train to Tokyo Disney World. 

As we approached the park, the sight of Cinderella's Castle against the Tokyo skyline was nothing short of magical. We could hardly contain our excitement. The moment we stepped through the gates, we were greeted by the infectious energy and the enchanting atmosphere. We were not just cabin crew members on a layover anymore; we were kids in a candy store.

Our first stop was the iconic Space Mountain. As we stood in line, we couldn't help but laugh at James, our chief purser, who was visibly nervous. He had a fear of roller coasters, but we had all made a pact to try everything together. As we rocketed through the dark, James' screams were louder than the ride's sound effects. His fear turned into exhilaration, and by the time we disembarked, he was the first to suggest we go again!

Next, we ventured into the Pirates of the Caribbean ride. We were all in stitches as Sarah, our usually poised and elegant flight attendant, started to mimic Jack Sparrow's swagger and accent. She had us all saying "Arr matey!" and "Shiver me timbers!" for the rest of the day. 

The highlight of our adventure, however, was the parade. As the music started and the characters began to dance, we found ourselves swept up in the magic. We danced, we sang, and we laughed until our sides hurt. At one point, Mickey Mouse himself came over and gave us a group hug. It was a moment of pure joy that we'll never forget.

Our adventure wasn't just about the rides and the characters, though. We also indulged in some of the park's famous snacks. We tried everything from Mickey-shaped ice cream bars to popcorn in flavors we never knew existed. Green tea popcorn, anyone? 

And let's not forget about the shopping! We must have spent hours in the various stores, picking out souvenirs for ourselves and gifts for our loved ones back home. By the end of the day, we were laden with Disney merchandise. 

As the day turned into night, we found ourselves at the park's grand finale - the fireworks display. We stood together, a group of friends far from home, watching the sky light up in a riot of colors. It was the perfect end to an unforgettable day.

Our Tokyo Disney World adventure was more than just a fun layover. It was a day filled with laughter, camaraderie, and unforgettable memories. It reminded us that no matter where we are in the world, and no matter how tiring our jobs can be, there's always room for a little magic.

So, here's to the cabin crew - the adventurers, the dreamers, the kids at heart. May our layovers always be as magical and adventurous as ours ✨ 

Once upon a time, in the thrilling life of a flight attendant (that's me, by the way), I was bestowed with the golden opportunity to gallivant around the globe. But, let me tell you, my recent week-long layover in the land of the rising sun, Japan, was an adventure that would make even Indiana Jones green with envy. 

After a flight from California that felt longer than the director's cut of "The Lord of the Rings" trilogy, I landed in Tokyo. The time difference was a beast, a monstrous creature that had me feeling like a zombie from "The Walking Dead." My eyelids were heavier than a sumo wrestler's lunch, and I was about ready to faceplant into my sushi. But, as soon as I disembarked from the plane, I was hit with a wave of excitement that was more electrifying than Pikachu's thunderbolt. I was finally in Japan, and I was ready to karate chop my way through the jet lag!

I rendezvoused with my crew at the hotel, a motley group of adventurers ready to conquer Tokyo. We were like a band of samurais, armed not with swords, but with our insatiable curiosity. We embarked on our quest to explore the city, visiting some of Tokyo's most beautiful spots, including the Imperial Palace, the Meiji Shrine, and the Tokyo Tower. We also spent some time in the Japanese gardens, which were so stunning, they could make a cherry blossom blush.

One of my favorite memories from our trip was watching the sunset over the city from the top of the Tokyo Tower. It was a sight so peaceful and beautiful, it made me feel like I was in a Studio Ghibli film. I half expected Totoro to appear and offer me a ride on the Catbus. I had to pinch myself to make sure I wasn't dreaming. 

Our culinary adventures were nothing short of epic. We dove headfirst into the local food scene, trying some of the weirdest and most wonderful dishes. We sampled takoyaki (octopus balls), which were so good, they had us doing the octopus dance. We also tried okonomiyaki (Japanese pancakes), which were fluffier than a cloud and tastier than a dream. And then there was natto (fermented soybeans), a dish that's as divisive as pineapple on pizza. But we loved it! 

One day, we decided to visit the Japanese Disney World. It was like stepping into a fairy tale. We rode all the rides, ate all the food, and met all the characters. It was like being a kid again, only this time, we could afford the giant Mickey Mouse balloons! 

As our layover came to an end, I started to feel sentimental. I both didn't want to leave Japan and couldn't wait to be back home at the same time. I felt like a kid being told it's time to leave the playground. But I knew that I would always cherish the memories I made there. And as I boarded the plane back to California, I couldn't help but smile. After all, in the immortal words of Dr. Seuss, "Don't cry because it's over, smile because it happened." And boy, did it happen!

As I began my journey back to the land of sunshine and surf, the golden state of California, I couldn't help but feel a sense of accomplishment that would make even an Olympic gold medalist blush. I had not only survived but thrived during a week-long layover in the land of the rising sun, Japan. I had emerged from the other side of this cultural immersion with a newfound appreciation for the culture, the cuisine, and the citizens that made Japan such a unique and vibrant place. But the most profound realization that hit me like a ton of bricks was this: I was absolutely, positively, over-the-moon ecstatic to be heading home. 

Home, sweet home, where the air is as sweet as a freshly baked apple pie, the sun shines brighter than a thousand spotlights, and the people are friendlier than a golden retriever on a sunny day. After a week of indulging in sushi that was so fresh it practically swam onto my plate, and ramen that was so delicious it could make a grown man weep, I was ready for a good old-fashioned American brunch by the ocean. Pancakes, bacon, and eggs, oh my! Or perhaps a homemade seafood dinner that would make even the most seasoned food critic salivate. 

As I reclined in my jumpseat, once the service was done and our plane was preparing to touch down on familiar soil, a smile spread across my face like butter on hot toast. I was home, and boy, was I happy to be here. But let's not get it twisted, Japan was an absolute blast. The bustling streets of Tokyo were a sensory overload, with more people than a rock concert and the food... oh, the food! 

I consumed so much sushi and ramen that I'm fairly certain I'll be having dreams about being chased by giant sushi rolls and swimming in pools of ramen for the foreseeable future. But the absolute cherry on top of the Japanese adventure sundae was the people. Every single person I met was as friendly as a long-lost friend, making me feel welcome in their homeland. 

But as the saying goes, there's no place like home, and as much as I enjoyed my Japanese escapade, I was ready to be back in my own bed, in my own city, in my own sunny California. And who knows? Maybe one day I'll find myself on another layover in Japan, ready to dive back into the culture, the food, and the people. But for now, I'm just happy to be home, ready to see what other adventures the world has in store for me. So here's to the next chapter, the next journey, the next adventure. But for now, pass me the pancakes!

 Welcome back!

I'm writing to you today with a heavy heart, a heart that has been bruised and battered, a heart that has been pushed to its limits and yet, has somehow found the strength to keep beating. I'm writing to you today to share my story, my truth, and my journey as a former Emirates flight attendant, now luckily living and flying from California, USA.

If you've been following my blog, you know that I've been sharing my experiences about working for Emirates. You've read about the bullying, the physical abuse, and the toll it took on my mental health. You've read about the heart neurosis, the PTSD, and the countless other health problems I've had to endure. You've read about the trauma. 

Unfortunately, in between of my last article and today's post, I sadly found out that one of my friends tried to suicide in her cabin crew accommodation in Dubai... I think no additional comment needed here... So I suppose you can imagine how I feel now again, right?

Today, I want to say a heartfelt thank you. Thank you to each and every one of you who have read my posts, who have reached out with words of support, who have stood up against the company's behavior, and who have shared your own stories of horror hidden behind the Emirates uniform. Thank you for hundreds of messages and comments standing by my side and sharing your battles. Your words, your stories, your strength have been a balm for my heart. 

Also, I am humbled and moved by the number of Qatar Airways crew members who have also come forward, who texted me to share their own experiences. I am grateful to those who have thanked me for speaking out and making them realize what's going on, that my posts have made them reconsider their dream of working for Emirates, saving them from potential suffering and mental terror. 

I'm happy to read your comments and messages that seeing me share my story made you feel less alone, more united, and stronger. You are not alone. You are not bad. You are not weak. You are a hero. We are heroes. We are survivors.

Now, let me show you something. In addition to this article I've posted a collage of three pictures of myself, each one revealing the truth behind the perfect Emirates flight attendant image that everyone saw on social media.

The first picture was taken a year ago in the Emirates crew bus. I was trying to hide how I felt, swallowing my tears in silence on the way back home from a flight.

The second picture was taken in my cabin crew accommodation. I was too overwhelmed to pretend that I was okay. I was crying, feeling helpless, seeing no sense of life. Yet, I had to put on my uniform and the mask of a happy flight attendant, smiling as if everything was perfectly fine. This became my daily routine, my daily struggle.

The third picture is the one (and one of many) you've all seen on social media. The picture of me seemingly the happiest person in the world. But, as you now know, not everything is as it seems. Social media can be deceptive, and even the biggest smile can be just a mask to cover a deep, internal pain.

I want to remind you all to stay strong, to stay healthy, and to never give up on yourself. You are worth more than any job, any company, any uniform. You are worth more than the abuse and the trauma. You are worth more than the tears and the pain. You are worth more than the mask you wear to hide your suffering. 

Burn, Emirates. Burn for the pain you've caused, for the lives you've ruined, for the dreams you've shattered. Burn for the truth that is now being revealed all around the world, coming from hundreds of hurt by you cabin crew, on every social media channel, for the stories breaking hearts. Burn for the justice that is long overdue.

With all my heart,

M.

Two weeks ago, on the 20th of August 2023, I woke up to a government SMS notification that would change the course of my life. The message was a stark warning about an impending hurricane, Hilary, set to ravage Southern California. The notification painted a grim picture of a potentially life-threatening amount of rainfall expected to cause flash, urban, and arroyo flooding, including landslides, mudslides, and debris flows. Dangerous to locally catastrophic flooding impacts were expected in my area. The advice was clear: secure property, hide indoors, and follow the local authorities' instructions.

Despite the warning, a part of me was drawn to the outside world. I decided to risk it and take a walk to the beach, pier, and promenade. Within an hour, the sky transformed from a vibrant palette of colors to a dark, heavy blue, pregnant with ominous clouds. The wind grew stronger, more dangerous, accompanied by a torrential downpour. The beach and paths began to flood, and trees broke, crashing onto parked cars. The most popular area of my town quickly became a ghost town as police officers started urging everyone to seek shelter indoors.

A battle waged within me. One part of me was terrified, urging me to return home as soon as possible. The other part was drawn to the chaos, wanting to stay outside to witness and document everything happening. The latter won, and despite my fear, I managed to walk around, capturing videos of the unfolding disaster. I posted these on my Instagram stories and reels, providing a real-time account of the hurricane's wrath.

However, when more safety alerts started flooding my phone, and debris began flying around, I realized the gravity of the situation. I retreated indoors, thinking I would be safe. But then, the unthinkable happened. An earthquake, measuring 6 on the Richter scale, decided to join the party. Roads and beaches turned into rivers, buildings and properties were damaged, and hundreds of people were left terrified.

The night was a symphony of chaos, filled with noise, whistling, and banging from outside. The feeling of danger and curiosity kept me awake. When dawn broke, I decided to venture outside, donning my gumboots to navigate the new landscape. What I saw was surreal. My town had turned into an ocean. Cars were sinking, trash floated on the water, palm trees were broken, cars crashed, windows shattered, and the beach around the pier was a wild river with waterfalls cascading into the ocean.

For two days, we endured the wrath of Hurricane Hilary and the accompanying earthquake. Then, just a day later, it was as if nothing had happened. The town returned to its normal Hollywood-style life. But I knew what I knew. I had seen the power of nature, and I had survived. I was a survivor of the hurricane and earthquake in California. And for that, I raised a glass in a silent toast. 

Cheers to survival, resilience, and the indomitable human spirit.

Dear Readers,

When I penned my first post about the true colors of Emirates, I made a promise to you all. I promised to share my personal experiences, the serious health consequences I faced as a result of working for this airline. I've touched on some of these issues in previous articles, mentioning the problems I started having with my heart and nervous system. But today, I am ready to share the most serious and the most hurtful part of my journey. 

The toxic atmosphere, the inhumane treatment, the daily humiliation, bullying, and harassment I endured while working for Emirates took a heavy toll on my health, both physically and mentally. I began suffering from overwhelming anxiety, panic attacks, arrhythmia, loss of focus, crying every day, zero joy of life, depressive mood and unbearable insomnia that drained me of all my energy. I would wake up crying and screaming every night, my digestive system in turmoil as stress made me sick to my stomach. The fear of what the next day would bring, of what new humiliation or mistreatment I would have to endure, was a constant, terrifying presence in my life.

The spiral of negativity and stress tightened its grip on me with each passing day. Just when I thought things couldn't get any worse, I experienced a brutal, animal-like physical abuse from one of the "higher rank" male employees of Emirates. The company, in its infinite wisdom (obviously), chose to sweep the incident under the rug, ignoring it and acting as if nothing had happened. That day changed me, and my life, forever as I couldn't and still can't remove it from my memory (and probably, despite healing and being happy now, it will always stay somewhere in my mind).

From that day forward, I lived in a state of constant fear and danger alert mode. I experienced many unexpected paralysis episodes, chest pains that felt like an electric shock, and memory problems. I would be in the middle of a task and suddenly freeze, forgetting what I was doing or saying. I couldn't keep food down, I cried day and night, I was shaking and scared to leave my bedroom, let alone go to work but still, I had to. I felt alone, knowing that I couldn't count on anyone's help and that justice would never catch up to the man who had hurt me.

Panic attacks became a daily occurrence. I couldn't eat, I couldn't sleep, and my heart would race one moment and feel like it painfully was stopping the next. Headaches and tears were my constant companions. I felt hopeless, helpless, and guilty, as if it was all my fault. The company made me feel like I was the one who had triggered the abusive behavior of this man. I would wake up screaming "NO!!!" every night, lost in a tantrum of fear and despair.

I was a wreck, my hands shaking so much that I couldn't hold a glass of water without spilling it. I would listen to people speak but couldn't remember anything they said. I felt like I had no future, like nothing good would ever happen to me again. I felt destroyed, dead inside. I couldn't trust anyone, I felt like I was losing my mind, like I was not myself anymore and what's more I started losing consciousness, experiencing hyperventilation, extremely high blood pressure, suddenly coming and going sight problems, chest pain attacks and after one particularly long blackout, I ended up in the hospital in the cardiological intensive care unit attached to many machines controlling every signal coming from my body. The diagnosis after many tests? Advanced heart neurosis.

But that's not all, my dear readers. The story takes a darker turn. Some time later, when I had already left the confines of Emirates, when I had already found solace in another country, when I had already begun to rebuild my life with a new job, I was still plagued by an intense problem. Insomnia, mood swings, uncontrolled bouts of crying at night, nightmares that left me drenched in cold sweat, and an unexplainable fear that clung to me like a second skin. I thought it was merely a case of struggling to adapt to a new timezone, an extended bout of jetlag that refused to let go. So, I sought medical help, hoping for a prescription that would help me sleep.

But the doctor, after listening to my symptoms, refused to prescribe any medication. Instead, she asked me a question that sent chills down my spine, "What happened in your life?" She immediately referred me to a therapist in the same clinic. Very quickly, the therapist gave me a diagnosis that left me reeling. Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, or PTSD as it is commonly known.

  And no, it's not a condition that only affects soldiers who have survived the horrors of war. It can affect anyone who has experienced a traumatic event, such as physical abuse, like I did.

If it hadn't been for my husband, who stood by me like a rock, who helped me navigate the stormy seas of my trauma, who supported me through the darkest days, I wouldn't have been able to reclaim my life. His unwavering love and care were my lifelines. I also owe a debt of gratitude to my current employer, who showed me that I was deserving of the best, who together with the doctor and my husband made me understand that I'm still me, that I'm not bad, not crazy, just hurt by the monster, and heal in part, from my traumatic past.

So, here's a heartfelt thank you to Emirates for almost completely destroying my health, for pushing me to the brink, for making me feel worthless and devoid of purpose, for almost extinguishing the spark of the cheerful girl I once was, coming to work for you and thinking you were my dream.

I have only two words for you, Emirates: FUCK YOU. I hope karma serves you the justice you so richly deserve.

Today as I promised in the last post, I'll bring to the daylight one very important subject. The suicides within the airline. Shocking, sad but real.

Over the years, there have been numerous instances of suicides and suicide attempts among the Emirates cabin crew. These tragic events have largely been kept under wraps, hidden from the public eye, and shrouded in secrecy. The company has been quick to silence any discussion of these incidents, with the threat of immediate termination hanging over the heads of those who dare to speak out.

Every now and then, a story would leak out, making its way into the press. But for the most part, these tragic incidents remained hidden within the confines of the airline. I remember my younger, naive self, reading about these incidents and dismissing them as personal issues, unrelated to the job. I defended the company vehemently like a lioness, convinced that these were isolated incidents, unrelated to the work environment at Emirates.

But as I delved deeper into the inner workings of the airline, I was confronted with a harsh reality. The suicides were not isolated incidents. They were not the result of personal issues. They were, in fact, a direct result of the unbearable work conditions at EK.

Take, for instance, the case of a female supervisor who took her own life by jumping from an aircraft while it was abroad. She chose to do it outside of Dubai, in an attempt to draw the public attention to her plight, knowing that if she did it in Dubai, her death would be swept under the rug, as if it never happened. She had no personal issues, but she was constantly vocal about her suffering at work.

Then there was the flight attendant who attempted suicide at the airline's headquarters in Dubai. He was saved in the nick of time and rushed to the hospital. His cries for help, his pleas that the company was killing him, fell on deaf ears.

These are just two of the many heartbreaking stories that have emerged from the shadows of Emirates. Stories of individuals pushed to the brink, with no support from the company they dedicated their lives to. Stories of individuals who, in their darkest moments, felt they had no other option. 

I don't wanna point out every single one as it's too heavy and sad to know that more people took their lives for example in their crew accommodation etc... However it's important to know and not forget about them.

It's a chilling reality that if you're struggling, if you're showing signs of depression or suicidal thoughts, you can't expect any help from the company. In fact, you can expect the opposite. If you reach out to the "anonymous" hotline or the peer support organization, you're more likely to find yourself out of a job than to receive the help you desperately need.

It's heartbreaking to think about those who have lost their lives, and those who loved them. It's hard to comprehend why, knowing the immense suffering they were enduring, they didn't leave the job sooner. But perhaps that's a testament to the immense pressure and fear that the company instills in its employees.

This job, this prestigious, glamorous job, is not worth losing your health or your life over. Yet, tragically, some flight attendants have become fatal victims of the mentally draining atmosphere at Emirates. To those who have lost their lives, may you rest in peace. 

To those who are still working at Emirates, I urge you to take care of yourselves. Please, take breaks when you need them. Don't be afraid to say no to breaking your boundaries. And most importantly, please, take care of your mental health. If you are feeling overwhelmed, please seek help. There are many resources available to you, our of the airline.

Stay safe!