Bass is not the only journalist to whom this has happened. “The room where I had to leave my suitcase was full of suitcases from colleagues from different countries.” There was still a pile of five thousand model journalists to process, he understood.
This seems typical of the situation in Qatar so far: a country that has to stage a huge event, but seems to have underestimated what it entails. In addition, they also face a shortage of personnel in Qatar.
Bass also noticed her at his hotel when he was looking for a restaurant for breakfast: this part of the hotel is not finished yet. “Maybe next week,” they said at the reception. When we got to his room the wifi didn’t work. “I made it clear that good WiFi is essential to my work as a journalist.” As compensation, upgraded to a larger room with reasonable WiFi.
Fortunately, not everything is so poorly organized. For example, the so-called media center is very well organized. Enormous press space with well functioning WiFi and comfortable work quarters. “There we can work and eat in peace.”
“Meanwhile, I’ve explored Doha a bit. It’s also noticeable outside that people are working hard everywhere to get everything done. Sidewalks are still being built, hedges are being trimmed and traffic lights are being repaired.”
“In Doha, the buildings are beautifully decorated inside and out with World Cup banners, but the residents don’t seem to be experiencing the World Cup at all. That’s a pity. But maybe that will come as soon as the football fans arrive.”
Word of the refund came Thursday morning: 36 hours after he arrived, Bass was allowed to pick up his things at the airport. “I feel good having my camera equipment back. I have my phone with me so I could shoot with it if I needed to. But it’s not ideal.”
On Thursday, Orange’s selection had Meeting twenty migrant workers. There are press moments and public practice sessions on Friday and Sunday. “We’re there too.”
Saturday’s training was closed, possibly because national coach Louis van Gaal didn’t want to reveal too much. The World Cup opened on Sunday with a match between host country Qatar and Ecuador. A day later it was Orange’s turn. Senegal is the opponent at 5 pm (Netherlands time).
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