The podcast episode “Petroli” revolves around the exceptional experience of a young Saudi, Ahmed Attar, who speaks with his guest, Professor Fawaz Hakmi, about the meanings of professional life and travel experiences. The discussion covers various topics related to social classes in New Zealand and the life experiences that Fawaz went through while moving between farms and homes, particularly in the context of volunteer work. Fawaz Hakmi highlights the importance of experiences in self-understanding and how they can reshape the horizons of professional life. He also talks about his experience working in an elderly care home, where he cooked meals and provided assistance, reflecting a facet of social responsibility that he cherishes. The topics vary to include human relationships formed through work and collaboration, and how providing work without financial compensation can create deep value and meaning in life. The conversation illustrates how travel opens doors to self-discovery and latent abilities, making the personal experience richer and more impactful. Thanks to these discussions, Ahmed and Fawaz embody how life experiences can shape individuals’ paths in different communities, opening new horizons for thought and personal growth.
Social Class in New Zealand
New Zealand is considered one of the countries distinguished by its cultural and ethnic diversity, which is clearly reflected in its social class. The social class in New Zealand consists of several categories, where multiple tiers exist, including upper, middle, and lower classes. The social system in New Zealand is relatively balanced, with opportunities available for all to achieve success and integration. In this context, the emphasis is placed on the importance of work and personal effort in elevating individuals in the social ladder. For example, the success of many farmers or businessmen is attributed to hard work and continuous perseverance. However, it is also important to consider that social issues such as poverty and homelessness still exist, indicating that the system is not entirely ideal.
Work Experience in New Zealand
The work experience in New Zealand is among the rich experiences that contribute to the development of personal and professional skills. Many individuals working in New Zealand, whether locals or foreigners, point out that the work environment is encouraging and supportive. By working on a farm or in an elderly care home, individuals can learn new skills and interact with diverse cultures. For example, working on a sheep farm can be an unusual experience, requiring learning about the nature of agricultural work and how to handle animals. Additionally, volunteering in areas such as agriculture or social care can enhance community awareness and foster a sense of social responsibility.
Cultural and Social Experiences
Social and cultural experiences in New Zealand are one of the prominent aspects that distinguish life there. By immersing themselves in the local culture, people can learn about the customs and traditions that characterize New Zealand society. For instance, it is common for the New Zealand community to have a spirit of cooperation, where people participate in community activities and work together to achieve common goals. The New Zealand culture also encourages effective communication through recreational activities like team games, which enhance social bonds among individuals. These activities not only contribute to building friendships but also strengthen the ability to work as a group and achieve common goals.
Volunteering and Charitable Work
Volunteering and charitable work are an important part of life in New Zealand. Individuals are encouraged to contribute to their communities through volunteer work, whether in agriculture or elderly care. This kind of work not only helps improve the lives of others but also provides opportunities for developing personal and professional skills. For instance, working in an elderly care home may provide the opportunity to learn about dealing with seniors and offering them support, enhancing the spirit of empathy and assistance. Additionally, working in agricultural fields can be a rich educational experience, where individuals learn how agriculture contributes to the local economy and how they can be part of this system.
Challenges
Opportunities in the Job Market
The job market in New Zealand is filled with challenges and opportunities. For newcomers, there may be difficulties in adapting to local laws and work requirements. However, there are still significant opportunities for growth and development in various fields. For example, there may be a pressing need for labor in the agricultural sectors, providing job opportunities for many people. In this context, working in areas that require manual or technical skills is a good option for many individuals. Additionally, New Zealand is an ideal place for individuals seeking a balance between professional and personal life, as the government prioritizes social welfare.
Work-Life Balance
Work-life balance is one of the core values in New Zealand. The work culture in the country encourages individuals to have a healthy and professional life, which benefits all members of society. Many local companies offer flexibility in working hours and encourage the use of vacations to maintain the mental and physical health of employees. For example, spending time in nature or exercising is considered part of the daily routine for many people in New Zealand. These practices contribute to enhancing quality of life and help individuals become more effective in their work.
Experiences Working with the Elderly
Experiences working with the elderly are filled with many lessons and insights. Working with this age group requires a great deal of patience and empathy, especially if they suffer from illnesses such as Alzheimer’s. For example, when working in nursing homes, one realizes the need to provide an atmosphere of safety and comfort for the elderly, not just to meet their basic needs. It also requires the ability to understand their feelings and communicate with them in ways that enhance their trust and satisfaction. Sometimes, you might need to interact with their families and try to provide support during difficult times, especially when it comes to aspects such as losing a loved one. Beneficial experiences can also arise through shared activities, such as reading to them or assisting them with daily tasks, which strengthens human bonds and makes them feel important and loved.
Volunteering Experiences During Crises
The importance of volunteer work becomes particularly evident during crises, as communities play a vital role in providing help and support to those affected. The experience of volunteering after the attacks at the Al Noor Mosque reflects how community gathering and cooperation can have a positive impact. At that time, there was an urgent need to support affected families, and providing emotional and practical help was crucial. Engaging in activities such as preparing food for children and organizing events for them was an effective way to bring joy to their hearts and help them through tough moments. These activities can serve as an outlet for these children, providing them with moments of happiness amidst sadness and supporting the psychological recovery process for all.
The Experience in New Zealand and Australia
Living in New Zealand and Australia is a great opportunity to acquire new skills and broaden horizons. In New Zealand, a variety of activities are available, from agricultural work to cultural activities, providing people with the chance to interact with different communities. For instance, there have been job opportunities in salmon farms, where one can enjoy interacting with nature while learning new skills. In Australia, cultural and geographical differences are even more apparent, where one can navigate between various environments from forests to deserts. These experiences not only provide the opportunity to work but also to build social relationships with people from diverse backgrounds, which enhances cultural communication and opens new horizons for mutual understanding.
Challenges
Life Abroad and Adapting to It
Expat life is not always easy, as it requires adapting to new cultures and different conditions. In the beginning, a person may feel lonely or alienated, but over time and by making new friends, these challenges can turn into enriching experiences. It is important to be open to new experiences and not be afraid to face unfamiliar situations. The relationships built during this time can be deeply meaningful, as people learn from each other and share different experiences. For example, getting to know friends from different countries can lead to a deeper understanding of other cultures and traditions, enriching the overall life experience.
Time Management Between Work and Personal Life
Time management is one of the essential skills that one acquires through life experiences. Balancing work and personal life can be challenging, especially in a busy work environment. It is crucial to set clear boundaries between work time and relaxation time, so that an individual can enjoy enough personal space for reflection and contemplation. Activities such as camping or visiting natural places help to recharge energy and vitality. Social activities with friends or family can also be a great opportunity to relax and connect, enhancing the overall quality of life.
Experience Traveling to Australia
Traveling to Australia was an exciting and new experience, as the trip was planned in an unprecedented way without any prior commitments. The journey started from Saudi Arabia to Australia, where the traveler spent about three months. This ample time allowed them to experience many different activities, such as skydiving, which was a unique and exhilarating experience.
In addition to recreational activities, the traveler moved between many Australian cities. There was a focus on enjoying the atmosphere of the cities and interacting with different cultures. In each city, the stay varied according to personal interest, as they might stay in some cities for several days and in others for just one day if they didn’t like it.
One of the advantages that helped in enjoying this trip was the flexibility in the schedule, which allowed them the opportunity to explore Australia with maximum freedom. There is also the possibility to work temporarily during the trip through specialized platforms, which contributed to providing some financial liquidity for various activities.
Work experiences were diverse as well, as some times required working on farms or cafés, adding additional value to their experience through familiarization with the local lifestyle. This deepened the experience and enriched their knowledge about the Australian community and culture.
Exploring Australian Cities
During their stay in Australia, the traveler moved between many cities and found that each city had its own unique character and special features. For example, Airlie Beach was one of the most beautiful cities visited, characterized by the beauty of its beaches and tropical climate. Airlie Beach is considered a gateway to many tourist islands, making it an ideal place to visit.
The traveler enjoyed all the available activities there, such as diving and swimming in the clear waters. The experience with friends was also an important part of this trip, as it helped strengthen social bonds and provided a lot of fun. There were also funny moments while driving, as they encountered several kangaroos on the roads, making the journey more memorable.
In addition to Airlie Beach, there were other cities like Melbourne and Sydney, which were bustling with life, cultural activities, and festivals. Each city offered something different, whether in terms of architecture, recreational activities, or local culture. Traveling between cities was relatively easy, allowing for quick trips and visits to new places.
Experiences
Cultural Engagement and Interaction with Local People
Interaction with local people was an essential part of the journey. Although most of the interaction was with tourists, there were some opportunities to meet Indigenous Australians and learn about their culture. The values observed by the traveler among Australians were related to punctuality and a commitment to enjoying life.
The traveler also noted that the Australian people have a sense of humor and openness, making communication with them easy and enjoyable. This openness helped enhance the tourist experience, as the traveler felt welcomed everywhere they went.
Moreover, there were many cultural events to participate in, such as local celebrations and markets. These activities added a unique character to the trip, providing an opportunity to learn about local foods and traditions. This type of interaction helps deepen understanding of the local culture and enhances the experience overall.
Return to Daily Life and Communication via Social Media
After the trip ended, returning to daily life posed a challenge. The traveler decided to connect with friends and family through social media, as these platforms served as an effective means to share experiences and memories. This highlighted the importance of these channels in maintaining human connections, especially after a period of social withdrawal.
Although the traveler had been connected to social media for a long time, they decided to reduce their usage after returning from the trip. This decision resulted from their travel experience and a desire to focus more on real-life experiences rather than virtual ones.
The traveler realized the importance of balancing digital and real-life communication, leading them to think about how to use social media more effectively in the future. Rather than sharing everything, they preferred to keep some experiences to themselves, making them feel that life had become richer with their personal experiences.
Farm Work Experiences
Farm work experiences are among the most significant experiences in individuals’ lives, as a person learns a lot about hard work and physical effort. The farms where one can work vary, from rose farms that require special care and creativity in farming to sheep farms that need skills in handling animals. These experiences provide an opportunity to gain new skills and a deep understanding of the agricultural environment. For example, working in a rose farm reflects beauty and art in agriculture, requiring knowledge of different types of roses and how to care for them, while working in sheep farms enhances animal care skills and understanding of animal behaviors. Working in such environments strengthens the core values of teamwork and self-reliance, as individuals learn the importance of commitment and perseverance to achieve their goals.
Culinary Cultures and Experiences in Different Countries
Culinary cultures vary widely around the world, each culture having its own unique flavors and distinctive dishes. When someone visits different countries, they find themselves facing a new challenge of trying local dishes that may be strange or unfamiliar to them. For example, trying sushi in Japan may be the beginning of discovering the world of raw seafood, requiring the person to open their mind to new foods. Similarly, trying kangaroo meat pizza in Australia illustrates how different cultures can adopt new ingredients to create unique dishes. These experiences offer an opportunity to broaden one’s palate, enhancing cultural experiences and enabling interaction with people from diverse backgrounds.
Travel and Volunteering Experiences Around the World
Travel and volunteering experiences represent a unique opportunity to learn about new cultures and participate in humanitarian work. Traveling to countries like Nepal or Japan is not just a sightseeing trip; it is a comprehensive experience that enhances the sense of humanity and connection with local communities. Volunteering at an elder care home in Nepal, for example, opens perspectives for appreciating life and self-reliance, where individuals learn how to provide assistance and help others in difficult circumstances. This type of experience fosters feelings of empathy and compassion, strengthening human bonds. Through volunteering, individuals can also acquire new skills such as project management and organization, contributing to the development of their professional career. Traveling with a humanitarian goal reflects the importance of volunteer work in improving local communities and building bridges of understanding between different cultures.
Challenges
Returning Home After a Travel Experience
Returning home after a long travel experience can be a significant challenge, as individuals may feel stressed and lost after a period of exploration and experience. Transitioning from a new environment filled with opportunities to a reality that may seem monotonous can be difficult. Individuals need to readjust to daily life and balance what they learned during their travels with what exists in their home country. This may manifest through the desire to apply the new skills or amazing experiences they have gained to their everyday lives. For example, returning to work in the public sector or the non-profit sector after volunteering in other countries may present individuals with challenges related to applying new ideas in different contexts. Therefore, it is important for individuals to remain open to modifying and adapting their skills to local conditions, which empowers them to continue pursuing their professional and personal goals after returning.
Working in the Non-Profit Sector and Its Impact
Working in the non-profit sector represents a vital part of society, as this sector aims to provide assistance and support to people who need help. Through working in this sector, individuals can offer financial or material assistance or even engage in direct volunteer work. The social impact of this sector is significant, as it helps fund various projects, whether educational, health-related, or developmental. For example, contributing to the implementation of medical programs to assist vulnerable groups can greatly improve their quality of life. Additionally, working in charitable organizations can enhance the spirit of cooperation and solidarity among individuals, leading to the formation of a more cohesive community. Working in this sector requires the ability to innovate and adapt to challenges, making individuals more prepared to face the social and economic challenges that may confront their communities.
Costs and Transportation Means
Cost is one of the key elements that influence the choice of transportation means for travel between cities. Often, the costs of flights can be unexpectedly high, especially if the decision is made at the last minute. However, there are multiple alternatives that may allow people to reduce costs, especially those who travel regularly between cities. For example, ride-sharing applications can help people share fuel costs, making it an economical option for passengers who wish to travel together. These applications also promote social interaction among individuals traveling to the same destination.
Modern applications have become an easy means for people to travel between cities without having to rely on expensive traditional transport methods. Some of these applications offer multiple options, such as taxis or ride-sharing services, making travel planning easier. Additionally, these applications can provide information on traffic and arrival predictions, enabling users to make informed decisions about which routes to choose. This helps reduce costs and minimize the time spent traveling.
Culinary and Nutritional Experiences
Food experience is an integral part of any travel journey. Many travelers indicate that they prefer to try local and popular foods rather than dining at fancy restaurants. This reflects their desire to explore the local culture, as traditional dishes embody the history and culture of the city. Experiencing local baked goods in the morning is one of these rich experiences, as it gives visitors the opportunity to taste new foods at reasonable prices.
When it comes to traveling, exploring local foods is a great way to learn about cultural customs and traditions. For instance, visitors can enjoy traditional dishes that are prepared in local ways, giving them a glimpse into how local residents live. This type of experience allows visitors to form a deeper connection with the place they are visiting while also enhancing feelings of belonging and connection to the community.
Importance
Tourism Planning
Good travel planning can have a significant impact on the overall travel experience. Knowing discount times and reduced fees for tourist sites can help travelers reduce their costs. For example, in some countries, discounts on museum entry tickets are offered on certain days of the week. Knowing these details can help travelers avoid peak times and save money, making their trip more effective.
Advance planning is not just limited to financial matters; it also helps improve the overall travel experience. By identifying activities and attractions they wish to visit in advance, travelers can make better use of their time and reduce the stress associated with not knowing what to do. Good planning can also give visitors the chance to discover new places that are less common among tourists, adding extra depth to their experience.
Volunteering Experiences in Travel
Volunteering experiences are an important part of travel for many people. Volunteer work allows travelers not only to provide assistance to local communities but also to gain new skills and unforgettable experiences. For instance, volunteering in education or health in different countries can make a significant difference in the lives of others. This type of work can be inspiring and give individuals a sense of achievement.
Volunteering can also have a major impact on the travelers themselves. By working with local communities, volunteers can understand the challenges faced by people in those areas. These experiences enhance cultural awareness and help build genuine human relationships. Volunteers often find themselves in situations that allow them to interact with local residents, enriching their personal experience and supporting the value of empathy and social engagement.
Cultural Challenges in Travel
Cultural challenges are an integral part of the travel experience. When individuals travel to new countries, they may face difficulties adapting to local customs and laws. A deep understanding of the local culture can help avoid problems and enhance the overall travel experience. For example, there may be differences in communication styles or socially acceptable behaviors.
When trying to assist communities, it is important for volunteers to have a good understanding of cultural values and principles. It’s not just about providing help, but also about having respect and understanding. This can greatly affect how local communities respond to volunteer initiatives. When people feel appreciated and respected, they become more willing to accept and benefit from the help.
The Travel Experience and Its Personal Importance
The travel experience is one of the most important experiences a person can go through, as it provides the opportunity to explore new cultures and expand horizons. Many people long to travel as a way to escape the daily routine and recharge their energy. However, not all travel trips are alike; some are for work or volunteering purposes, while others choose to travel for purely personal reasons. In this context, some travelers refer to preferring to divide their vacations between short and long trips, allowing them to enjoy multiple experiences without feeling bored or tired. For example, an individual can take a week off every two months, giving them the opportunity to explore new places each time.
Additionally, personal trips can be an opportunity to rejuvenate and acquire new skills. For instance, while traveling, an individual interacts with different cultures, helping them to understand and accept the diversity of ideas and customs. This interaction can have a positive impact on the individual, both professionally and personally. Traveling can help improve communication skills, enhance flexibility, and develop the ability to work under pressure.
Acceptance
Different Professions and Cultures
When visiting different countries, travelers may notice that there is a variation in the acceptance of certain professions across cultures. For example, the teaching profession may be more respected in some countries, while other professions may not enjoy the same level of appreciation. These differences in attitudes reflect the cultural and social values of the countries, and at times, the acceptance of professions is considered an indicator of how developed a society is.
It is important to understand how these cultural values affect travel experiences. In some countries, travelers might face challenges in adapting to local customs and practices. For instance, individuals belonging to certain professions may find it difficult to integrate into communities that may not recognize their profession or consider it unconventional. This situation requires travelers to be flexible and to accept cultural differences, providing them with the opportunity to learn and grow.
Travel Experiences and Their Impact on Personal Development
Traveling is considered a powerful tool for self-development, as it significantly affects an individual’s psyche and increases their awareness of the world. Travelers can encounter unexpected situations, prompting them to develop their adaptation skills. Travel offers the chance to experience new challenges, whether it is communicating with people from different cultures or dealing with difficult situations during the trip. These challenges enhance mental resilience and help build self-confidence.
Moreover, journeys can contribute to enhancing creativity and innovation. When individuals are exposed to new environments, they may generate new ideas and different perspectives on life. For example, someone who travels to remote areas might return with new ideas on how to manage affairs in their daily life or even how to develop their work. These experiences can be stimulating for creativity, benefiting individuals in their work environment.
Volunteer Travel Experiences
Traveling for volunteer work is considered one of the activities that add great value to both the volunteer and the community. It provides an opportunity to work with local communities and make a positive impact. Volunteering allows individuals to apply their skills in new environments, thereby enhancing teamwork and collaboration. For instance, volunteer doctors can provide healthcare in areas lacking these services, which contributes to improving the lives of many people.
Volunteer experiences often require individuals to adapt to new conditions, which enhances their resilience and ability to handle pressure. Volunteering also involves learning from different cultures and understanding the challenges faced by communities. These experiences give volunteers a broader perspective of the world, which helps them develop a more understanding and accepting attitude toward cultural differences.
Challenges and Opportunities in Travel
Despite the numerous benefits of traveling, there are challenges that travelers may face. Among these challenges, there can be difficulties in adapting to new cultures or encountering language issues. Additionally, there may be health or security risks in certain destinations. Therefore, good planning and thorough research before traveling are essential to ensure a safe and enjoyable travel experience.
However, challenges can turn into opportunities for learning and growth. For example, handling a difficult situation during the trip may enhance problem-solving skills and improve decision-making ability. Also, communicating with people from different cultural backgrounds can open new horizons for understanding and empathy.
The episode was summarized using artificial intelligence ezycontent
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