So many questions - so little time - it's really not that different here. Small, annoying things to deal with but really you can find most anything you have at home. Dr. Pepper, Pampers, turkey hotdogs... Yes, it's hot but that's a given. Check out www.expatwoman.com for all your mommy questions. Very nice private hospital here that I just used for baby #2. Compounds come in all shapes and sizes. Some are like resorts as far as the amenities. Very nice, social places. Good luck!