I just got back from swimming in Saddam's pool, which is really a sight to behold, even with the central fountain disabled. The contractors in charge of running it created a few lane ropes out of rope and empty water bottles, and the pool is plenty big for lap-swimming, water-basketball, and all sorts of other recreation. Interestingly, each "lap" is 33.5m (or 0.021 miles), though the sign that says that also somehow states that 24 laps = 1 mile. Must be some weird Iraqi math...
A few things to consider when planning your next trip to Club Med Baghdad:
1. While alcohol is no longer served on the embassy grounds (except, I'm told, an ad hoc two-hour happy hour Friday nights), you can get a virgin fruity drink while lounging in the 120-degree heat.
2. Relatedly, no handling of firearms while drinking (unclear whether this is to prevent bad shots or spilled drinks).
3. Military and other DoD personnel are restricted in the swim attire they may wear. Men may not wear Speedos (unclear whether wearing one leads to the presumed violation of "don't ask, don't tell"). Women are limited to one piece suits or two-piece "sports" suits (no string bikinis, unfortunately).
4. The pool is strategically located next to the chow hall, boasts an outdoor dance floor/lounge area, is overlooked by two pool tables, and is also in close proximity to several duck and cover bunkers. (Apparently ducking and diving under the pool surface has the same effect as a concrete bunker because shrapnel slows down quickly in water. It's all in the timing of when you dive, however; waiting till after the missile detonates is too late.)
5. You must have a badge to access the pool (see previous posts).
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2 comments:
This is so incredibly cool. You saw in Saddam's pool.
Indeed.
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