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I have always been an island boy. I grew up surrounded by the lush tropical islands of my hometown in Panglao, Bohol, Philippines. Turqouise waters, green vegetation, white sand, quaint and cultural sites— it is what many would consider a paradise and I consider it paradise. Despite the beauty it offers to the world, this paradise is not able to provide sustainable jobs for majority of its people, which is the primary reason most locals here seek greener pastures overseas. I have a lot of relatives working in differerent parts of the globe just to provide a better future for their families. They were able to provide the needs of their families, but their absence was an everyday struggle. At an early age, I promised that I would be with my family whatever happens and we would spend all our lives together in this paradise. As time progressed, my family members started going overseas— my aunt, my uncle, my two siblings, and with all the financial struggles we still experienced, I also had to leave paradise. With a heavy heart, I followed my siblings to Qatar. Qatar has been known as a business hub. One of the richest countries, it has been a destination for expatriates seeking better opportunities. Despite the overflowing opportunities Qatar has to offer, I was not joyful leaving the place that I have loved. The lush green and blue hues were replaced with monotone earth pallettes and dry sand, LOTS OF SAND. With temperatures as high as my hopes and barren vegetation, I was not a happy camper in the first months I was here. I went to Qatar with a different mindset— all work, no play. I was so focused on working and making a living that I always look forward to going home to my paradise. Unbeknownst to myself, there is so much life outside the four corners of my office in the middle of the desert. I was so caught up with my idea of paradise and tourism that I failed to acknowledge the beauty Qatar has to offer. Majestic sand dunes, historical sites, amazing architecture, a smorgasbord of delicious food, melting pot of culture, name it, Qatar has it. I came here thinking this country is just a bunch of buildings piled up in sand. What I thought was barren and dry land, turned out to be an oasis, a second home for many expatriates, including my family, where culture and business harmonize beautifully. As time progressed, I have grown to love the place more. Despite the huge difference of the environment I am used to, I am glad to say that Qatar is indeed paradise and I have finally found a second home— a home where opportunities flourish, a home where I can spend time with my family and provide their needs, and a home where new things and adventure await for me. In a world where paradise is defined by its tourism marketability and its instagram-worthy characteristics, we must not forget that wherever we may be, it is a paradise and there is beauty in it— beauty in the environment, beauty in our loved ones, and beauty within ourselves.