Strange times are here

Hello!

I write to you from a warm evening in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. After 23 hours of flight, 4 airports, and 2 days, I have arrived.

I was picked up from the airport by a LanguageCorps staff named Dara, whose mode of transportation was a tuk-tuk (a motorcycle with a big carriage on the back). There were two other Americans that he was arranging to meet as well--recent Gonzaga grads. The drive to our accommodation was, well, overwhelming. There was too much to look at: children playing, vendors selling unusual fare, motorcycles and cars weaving in and around as if there were no traffic laws. I was also on the receiving end of some looks as well, which comprised of intense and unabashed staring. Our lodging is a house off the main road and when we pulled down the side street Susan came out to greet us. It was so comforting to see her friendly and familiar face. More and more soon-to-be teachers have been arriving all day and there will be 17 of us total. This training is for teachers in Cambodia, Vietnam, and South Korea as well, so not all of the 17 will necessarily be in Thailand for the majority of their stay.

After a nap, 5 of us decided to go outside for a stroll and a bite to eat. I felt very aware of myself as I walked through the town. In all my other travels, I've never stuck out so much. Along our walk a little boy took the wrist of my hand that held my small bag. It wasn't a big deal, the people I was with didn't even notice but somehow I feel this won't be the best or last attempt at stealing that I will encounter. Dinner was a success as we managed to order rice, chicken, and beer. Granted, the rice had baby squids in it and the chicken came served cooked with the head, but it was pretty tasty with some side sauces of unknown ingredients. The waiters were pleasant and congenial despite--or maybe because of--our hand motions and stumbling. For the five of us the bill came to $14, and I think a few bucks still were tacked on for the language barrier.

Tomorrow we have a scheduled tour of the city, followed by a Welcome Dinner thanks to LanguageCorps. I don't think the reality has fully set in where I am or what I am doing, but there is plenty of time for that.

Signing out.

Val

p.s. a great thanks to my friends and family who have sent their love and support across the globe!