Another CDFN Life Hack by Chris Stewart
Here’s a scenario that might not apply to everyone, but the tip has saved me a couple of times on post. You’ve just arrived on post and your skills at the local languages is zero or at the very least minimal. You also have a new home that’s nothing like your house in Canada and it’s getting dirtier by the week. Your problem, you couldn’t bring any cleaning supplies from Canada (and even the ones you could bring are still coming in your sea shipment). You have a house that needs cleaning, but you have no idea how to read any of the labels at the grocery store. The store is also organized (or disorganized) differently than you’re used to and even the pictures on the labels don’t make sense. Is that dish soap, toilet scrubber or laundry detergent, the pink flowers on the bottle give you no clue at all.
The solution can be found on your TV or online in the form of commercials. Pay attention to the local advertising as they often demonstrate using the product in commercials. Take pictures or screen grabs and take those to the grocery store with you. While you might not be able to read the writing, you might be able to match the bottle. I personally discovered some amazing window cleaner in Greece and a great soap in Pakistan doing just this.
Written by Chris Stewart — Chris Stewart has been a creative professional for over 20 years: a photographer, video wizard, writer, illustrator, often juggling several hats at once. Chris is also a packing expert! He’s currently in a suitcase transitions after leaving Myanmar, having had adventures in Cambodia, Pakistan, Greece, and Japan. The “CDFN Life Hacks” are designed to provide quick advice for navigating assignment cycles more smoothly.
Have tips to share? Reach out to us — we’d love to hear from you.
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