We begin our journey in Bangkok
“And above all, watch with glittering eyes the whole world around you because the greatest secrets are always hidden in the most unlikely places. Those who don’t believe in magic will never find it.” -Roald Dahl
สวัสดีค่ะ (sà-wàt-dee kâ) = Hello
This is real. I am in Bangkok, Thailand, and not just on a typical vacation.
I don’t have work on Monday, and I will not be returning home for another six months. But I’m already seeing the beauty in taking a step out of my comfort zone and just going with it.
When I first decided to teach English in Thailand, I felt like I was running away from society’s (and even my own) expectations of me. I was defying the laws of “supposed to” and making an adventurous decision because it was a decision. I’m not sure what I want to do with my life after all of this, but in the months I had to mull over my choice, I became more and more excited about this path of self-discovery. And in one of the meccas of Buddhism! What could be more fitting?
The fact that I will be living in Thailand has not quite hit me yet, but Bangkok has been full of surprises and peculiarities, both pleasant and shocking.
The drive from the airport to our hotel took close to an hour in traffic, but I was more than happy to absorb the size of this city and its slightly overdeveloped nature. There is a very mismatched quality to Bangkok; one minute, a sea of half-constructed buildings, and the next minute, seemingly new apartment buildings and businesses looking sleek as ever. I think this speaks to the economic and political status of Thailand, while slightly humanizing the struggles that defy race, color, and country.
I saw my first tuk-tuk in person, and I finally witnessed the crammed mopeds I’ve heard so much about! The women riding side saddle looked so relaxed, and some of them even had children riding with them. I would probably be holding on for dear life, especially in Bangkok traffic, but their effortless ways made me smile. That doesn’t mean I will be getting a moped while I’m here, but it’s a fun thing to see!
Our excursions so far have included Wat Pho, Khao San Road, and the Grand Palace (all highly recommended). Details coming soon. After a long day of exploring in the sun, I think some pool time is well-deserved. (:
ขอบคุณค่ะ (kòp kun kâ) = Thank You
