My adventure in Thailand began nine months ago. As a recent college graduate, I wanted to pursue my love for teaching, but also wanted to travel, and not do the typical American thing- work for corporate or dive right into graduate school.
When I first arrived, I was excited and could not wait to start teaching, and enjoy my new adventure in life – at the same time, I couldn’t help but keep thinking, “what did I just do??!” You really went for it this time, Lauren!
The hardest part by far, was the language barrier, and people staring at you when you were just out and about. I did not speak a drop of Thai, and trying to communicate with anyone in Hat yai was like playing an extremely hard game of charades. As well as not having that many Westerners around. There are about 100, give or take a few, in Hat yai- it is a challenge, but it has turned out to be one of the best parts of this journey.
As each day passed, and the longer I had been living in Thailand, I realized what an amazing experience I was having. Once I had hit the classroom, I knew that this was one of the best decisions I had made. I am teaching kindergarten and absolutely love it! The kids crawl deep inside your heart and make you melt. There is not one day that goes by where they do not make me laugh, and smile. Plus, I get to be a complete goof ball- so fun!
Now, the weather… My god it is hot and humid! When I stepped off the airplane for the first time, I immediately just started dripping wet. I thought, this is bad, very bad; but here I am nine months later, and I have adjusted enough where I do not look like a sweating mess all the time.
Aside from the teaching and the scorching sun, there is the luxury of traveling in Thailand. Some of my favorite memories are during summer vacation. I could not wait to swim in the picturesque waters, lay out on white sandy beaches, and check out the cave trekking and world renowned snorkeling spots. Go everywhere you can! Travel, travel, travel!!
Thailand has taught me to CHILL OUT, and be grateful for where I come from. As well as confirming my love for teaching. This has been a crazy, but beautiful adventure, that I will never be able to forget. The kids, the food, the gorgeous beaches and islands, and of course the craziness of driving a motor bike in Thailand (probably one my favorite memories made, thus far).
Lauren
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