Preparing for our trip, I wouldn’t let myself create expectations in my mind; despite my efforts, Thailand is nothing like I expected it would be.

This is my first trip overseas, so I guess the only expectation I had was to feel unfamiliar, out of place, and surprised by the things I was going to see. But the people are still people (very nice people, at that!), the cars are still loud, the streets are still filled with businesses and homes, and everyone still stares at the tourists. It feels surprisingly normal.

The biggest culture shock is probably the smell, but, as Angela’s uncle warned us, I’m trying to have a good sense of humor and no sense of smell. At this point, I’m training my sense of smell not to, well, smell.

What we’ve done so far

After nearly 25 hours of travelling, we arrived in Bangkok. A couple ladies from Santisuk, Awe and Kwan, picked us up with a sign that said “Azusa Team.” They were both so sweet! When we arrived at the hotel, we had to carry our suitcases up the steep and shallow stairs to the fourth floor (the stairs here are all step and shallow, and it’s hard on my big feet!). Then, we had about an hour to freshen up before heading over to Santisuk.

When we walked over to the school, I felt like a zombie because I was so tired! We arrived and met a ton of people, and, being that I was so tired, I don’t think I remember any of their names. Everyone had dinner together and headed upstairs for church. It’s a cell church, so the main service is on Friday nights and small groups meet on Sunday mornings. To tell you the truth, I don’t really remember much more about the night because I was so tired.

We slept around 12 hours before we got up and going; we all showered and felt so much better. After eating breakfast, we went to the mall with Ethel, one of the ladies from the school. She showed us around and helped us order food and Thai tea. As far as food goes, I think I’m going to be sad when I go back to America! Luckily, Ethel said they sell Thai tea mix :)

So  far, Bangkok is great, and I’m so excited to be here!