Arriving

I'm here in Djibouti and what with checking-in and turnover with the Marine I'm replacing it's a bit like drinking from a fire hose. Let's start with something simple. When you get to the airport you will find it looks just like a dilapidated third world airport, which it is. You come down the stairs from the plane and walk over to the terminal and gaggle together to get through customs. No carpet, no A/C, lots of grime and exposed wiring. Then you herd your way into the baggage claim area and gather up your stuff. If you've been paying attention you realize that you will have lots of stuff. I had four checked bags (200 total pounds) and two carry-ons. There are no carts. There are however, several blue clad gentlemen who quickly try to grab bags out of your hand and "help" you exit the room. They're going to ask for money, five bucks U.S. currency per bag will do even if they ask for more. Stand firm when pressed. (Try to carry as many of your own bags as possible.) Oh, and if someone is meeting you and you think they are going to help... no. No one is allowed into the baggage claim area so there's no other way to get out of the airport without using the "helpers." After that you get to walk through the dirt parking lot and drive to base. That's when you start to see how poor this place really is. More on that later.