For most diplomats, the summer is “bidding season,” which means applying for new assignments. FSOs typically bid one year out, every two...

Once you’ve decided to (try to) become a diplomat—a generalist Foreign Service Officer for the US Department of State—the first thing you...

It’s been almost a year since we moved to Armenia, so it’s time for a second installment of Exploring Armenia (with kids). In Part I, I...

There are 646 restaurants in Yerevan, according to Tripadvisor, which is a lot more than there used to be half a decade ago. So far, I’ve...

For diplomats and other embassy employees it’s easy to be totally consumed with work. There is always something important going on, and...

Did you know that Armenia produces more and better wines every year? Finding a nice, even excellent, wine here is pretty easy now. Many...

Joining the Foreign Service is a long process – it takes a good deal of studying, planning and waiting to pass all of the entry exams...

Jobs at the US embassy are not just reserved for diplomats (I mean FSO generalists) – the majority of employees in embassies are actually...

Let’s face it: I like shopping, and living abroad only makes hunting for treasures more fun. I’m talking about clothing, shoes, and...

Diplomats in the US Foreign Service work in one of five career tracks. Even though they are called "generalists", which means they can...

Diplomats in the US Foreign Service work in one of five career tracks. Even though they are called "generalists", which means they can...

Living and working abroad is amazing in a lot of ways, most of the time. There are certainly challenges, but the opportunities, in my...

In case you missed it, a “velvet revolution” just took place here in Armenia. I’m not sure if “revolution” is the right term for what...

Since I arrived in Armenia last year, I’ve been a much happier mom. I feel more accepted here when I’m out and about with my kids than...

I just passed my 5-month mark as a vegan. To be honest, I haven’t been totally vegan the whole time, but maybe 95% of the time. And it...

On 18 May 2014 I officially became a marathon runner. I finished without any injuries, pains or even soreness (apart from my toes) and I...

HOW I GOT STARTED I started running when I met my husband. It turns out that dating an American turned me from someone who looked down on...

Hi there. As a diplomat, I expected to move mountains. Even though I work for only limited time in each country (typically 2 or 3 years),...

Hi Christel, do you think I should I (pretend to) enjoy the celebration of local holidays? It seems to me that local celebrations are...

Hi Christel, I often wonder what to wear at work in the embassy. I’m an American Foreign Service Officer, so do you think it’s better to...