FAQ: Are you excited?
Yeah, but I haven't thought too much about it. I've done this before, so I kind of know what to expect. I know that I'll get homesick from time to time, but overall, I'll be fine. I've also been really busy teaching summer school, taking a graduate course online, and attending various family/friend functions.
But as August 13th approaches, there some things I am a little concerned about regarding life in rural Thailand. Actually I'm not sure if where I'm living is considered rural, but it seems like the middle of nowhere from the extensive research I've done. (i.e., stalking future coworkers on Facebook)
My concerns:
1. Weather in the 80's-90's year round.
Yes, I despise January and February in Minnesota. But can I really handle the opposite extreme?
2. Cobras.
According to one of my future coworkers, they are present in the staff village. Cobras!
3. Scorpions
This photo was taken in Khao Yai National Park, just a few miles down the road from where I'll be living. Awesome!
[http://www.flickr.com/photos/eternalsun/253846691/]
4. AC in the bungalows?
I should probably ask about this. (And yes, I'll be living in a bungalow)
Photo courtesy of Corinne, future coworker I've been stalking on Facebook
5. Being an hour away from civilization
The closest legit city is Korat. Bangkok is a 2 1/2 hour bus ride away. And from what I've been told, there isn't much going on in Pak Chong, which is 10K away from the school.
7. Having to cook for myself.
I don't cook...ever. In Seoul I ate out almost all the time. I could walk down the street and order some bibimbap or kimchi jiggae at any number of little Korean restaurants in my neighborhood. I think the principal at my new school told me there is ONE Thai restaurant near the staff village. Looks like it'll be scrambled eggs or grilled cheese for dinner every night, or actually learn how to cook.
8. Availability of Western food?
I LOVE Thai food, but I know from traveling there for 2.5 weeks this spring that even Chicken Curry gets old when you have it every night for dinner.
I was spoiled in Seoul. I had immediate access to pretty much every "Western" convenience and necessity. For the items I was unable to attain, my Mom and Grandma sent care packages. I feel like they are over the whole daughter/granddaughter abroad thing now and the care packages will be few and far between.
This is going to be an interesting year. Stay tuned to see if this self-proclaimed "city girl" can hack it for a year in the Thai jungle.