Overview// Here is a photo gallery of the beginning of last summer with my host sister, Rino, my friends, and I in Chicago. May & June, Chicago 2019// One of my best friends, Anai Arenas, lives just down the street from my house. Before I left for Thailand, I strongly encouraged her and her family... Continue Reading →
YES Abroad Return Orientation: Back in Washington D.C.
Overview// From May 7-10, 2019, I attended the YES Abroad return orientation, located in Washington D.C., for the cohorts from Southeast Asia. I got to spend time with almost all of my friends from PDO, who I hadn't seen since July of 2018! We had meetings about cultural adjustment and future YES Abroad alumni opportunities.... Continue Reading →
My Last Weeks in Thailand
Overview// During my last few weeks in Thailand, I had a week exchange with Sofia, went on a trip with my host family & Sofia, and said goodbye to all of my friends in KPP. I also went to Bangkok a few days before my departure orientation to see my friends and explore the city again.... Continue Reading →
Songkran: Thailand’s Most Famous Holiday
Overview// Alice, my best friend from France, and her host family invited me to stay with their family for Songkran, the most important Thai holiday. We went on a little road trip through provinces near Bangkok, going swimming often to lots of beaches or creeks. It was so much fun and I loved spending more... Continue Reading →
Thai Massage Camp in Ayutthaya
Overview// From April 1st-10th, I attended an AFS optional Thai massage camp in Ayutthaya with all the YES Abroad girls and our European friends. I attended massage classes for several hours each day and eventually became certified in Thai massage. In my free time, I explored the city with my friends and relaxed in our... Continue Reading →
Khao Sok National Park Camp
Overview// From March 28th to 31st, Sydney, Luke, and I attended an AFS optional camp in Surat Thani, a province in the south. We stayed in Khao Sok National Park with several other European AFS-ers who we befriended. There, we went swimming, kayaking, and spent time together as a group. Travelling to Surat Thani// Because... Continue Reading →
A Taste of Southern Life: Phatthalung
Overview// From March 11th-27th, Sydney Chesta and I stayed in Phatthalung, a province in the south of Thailand. We briefly attended a local school, travelled the province, and formed a deep connection to our lovely host family. Journey to Phatthalung// Sydney and I jumped into Teacher Vicky's pick up truck with our bulging suitcases and... Continue Reading →
Krabi & Islands Camp
Overview// With a surprising turn of events, Sydney and I attended the AFS optional camp to Krabi from March 8-11th. Our German friends (Alice, Emil, and Fenja), as well as Luke from YES Abroad were also going. Day 1// On March 7th, my advisor picked Sydney and I up early to take a bus from... Continue Reading →
Last Day of School
On March 1st, I had my last day at Kamphaengphet Pittayakom School before my summer vacation. My school had set aside time during our morning assembly to give me a farewell ceremony. My coordinator talked about me for a few minutes before giving my host father the stage. He gave a speech in only Thai about... Continue Reading →