First 2 weeks in Thailand!

I truly can’t believe it has been two weeks since I touched down in Thailand. It feels like it has been months and also seconds at the same time. I could talk about the last two weeks in so much mumbo jumbo detail, but I won’t do that (hopefully this time you read the whole thing, Hannah). To sum up the past 14 days, I would use the words overwhelming, exciting, empowering, and exhausting.

Overwhelming

Moving to a different country on the legitimate opposite side of the world is going to be overwhelming. I landed here for my first full-time job, in a country where I do not speak the language. The initial days were filled with a mixture of awe and anxiety. Everything felt like a sensory overload: the bustling streets, the unfamiliar sounds, and the new faces everywhere. Navigating through daily tasks that were once routine back home has now become a series of challenges. Simple things like ordering food, asking for directions, or even grocery shopping can feel like monumental tasks when you're not fluent in the local language. But each small victory, like successfully buying a meal or understanding a few phrases, is incredibly rewarding and makes the overwhelming moments worth it.

Exciting

I know it’s still the honeymoon phase where everything is new and exciting, but so far, I'm having a blast exploring, trying new things, meeting new people, and getting in front of the classroom. Every day brings a new adventure. From exploring vibrant markets filled with exotic fruits and spices to visiting stunning temples that are steeped in history, there’s never a dull moment. I’ve also been immersing myself in the local culture, trying traditional Thai dishes that tantalize the taste buds, and participating in local festivals that are bursting with color and energy. Meeting new people, both locals and fellow expats, has been enriching. Each conversation offers a new perspective and a deeper understanding of this beautiful country. Teaching in a classroom here is a unique experience that’s both challenging and incredibly fulfilling.

One of the highlights so far has been visiting the Grand Palace in Bangkok. The intricate architecture and rich history left me in awe. I spent hours wandering through the palace grounds, taking in the beauty and learning about Thailand’s royal heritage. Another exciting aspect has been trying street food. From Pad Thai to mango sticky rice, each dish is a new culinary adventure. The flavors are bold and unique, making every meal an experience in itself. The local festivals are another source of excitement.

Empowering

I’m proud of myself for actually being here and truly living in the moment. It is empowering to be doing this for myself. Also, I feel genuine happiness for the first time in a long time. Stepping out of my comfort zone and embarking on this journey alone has been a profound experience. It’s taught me the importance of self-reliance and the joy of discovering new strengths within myself. Each day I spend here, I feel more capable and confident. The ability to adapt to new surroundings and thrive despite the initial discomfort is a testament to human resilience. This journey is not just about professional growth, but also about personal empowerment and finding happiness in unexpected places.

One empowering moment was the first time I taught a full class by myself. Standing in front of a room full of students, I felt a mix of nerves and excitement. As the lesson progressed, I found my rhythm and confidence. Seeing the students engage and respond positively was incredibly rewarding. It made me realize that I’m not just surviving here; I’m thriving. Another empowering experience has been making new friends. Forming connections in a foreign land has shown me that no matter where we are, we can always find our tribe. These friendships have provided support and a sense of belonging, making the journey all the more fulfilling.

Exhausting

Being an adult is hard. Adjusting to a new job, a new country, and a new lifestyle all at once is exhausting. There are days when I feel utterly drained, both physically and mentally. The demands of adult life, combined with the challenges of acclimating to a new environment, can be overwhelming. From handling paperwork and settling into my new home to managing my work responsibilities and trying to maintain a social life, it’s a lot to juggle. But amidst the exhaustion, there is a sense of accomplishment. Each hurdle I overcome makes me stronger and more prepared for whatever comes next.

One of the major highlights was spending last weekend in Bangkok! My school is around 30 minutes outside of the city center, so I took a cab in to meet a friend from orientation! We booked a hostel and slept in a room with 22 other people (i'm still shocked nobody was snoring??) We spent the weekend exploring markets and temples during the day, and at night we experienced Thailand's nightlife!

In conclusion, these past two weeks have been a whirlwind of emotions. While it has been overwhelming and exhausting at times, the excitement and empowerment I feel make it all worthwhile. I’m looking forward to what the next chapter in Thailand has in store for me. Here’s to more adventures, more learning, and more growth! Each day brings new challenges and opportunities, and I’m eager to embrace them all. To anyone considering a similar journey, I say go for it. The experience is transformative, and the memories you create will last a lifetime.