Who are you and what are you doing in Bangladesh?
I'm Simon Clarke, originally from Birkenhead in Auckland. I'm halfway through a two year contract at the Asian University For Women here in Chittagong, I'm teaching Political Science and Philosophy to students from all over Asia.
What's it like living here?
There was a bit of culture shock from the streets, the noise and the crowds. I'm very careful about what I eat, I cook for myself mostly at home, making very simple things - you boil everything!
How is it watching the BLACKCAPS play so far from home?
It's great, I'm really enjoying it, I was very pleased when a friend told me they were coming in Chittagong. It's a different experience here, with lots of very excitable fans and interesting conversations with the locals. Walking around, I get thousands of handshakes and photos taken. My classes are already over for the day, so it's very relaxing to come to the cricket. It's very cool to see your home team away from home.
I also went to the Bangladesh Premier League matches, which had Kiwis Lou Vincent, Jacob Oram and Scott Styris playing. They're played in smaller grounds with crowds of up to 30,000 people, the atmosphere is very entertaining! Chittagong's team did well too, which was great.
Would you recommend Chittagong as a place to live?
Everyone in NZ should come to visit - it's an interesting experience, not touristy at all. If you want a real adventure, come here. It's right off the beaten track.
