Today is our last day in Bangkok before we leave for Cambodia tomorrow morning at 8:30. We got a picture of our host family in Cambodia at our daily debriefing this morning. Namji, our program director, also went over some does and don'ts of Cambodian culture to help prep us for the stay which occurs on July 17-22. We still have alot of people to meet before we begin the home stay.One aspect of the Thai culture that I've noticed (and read about) is the idea of "going with the flow." The Thai people actually look down on people that become aggressive or pushy, especially in public. You don't see people waiting in line getting angry or upset, in fact it is not socially acceptable to exhibit such behavior. Everyone seems so much calmer, even in Bangkok, which is a very large city (10 million). I am sure this is a reflection of the Buddhist influence in a country where 95% of the population are Buddhist. America could use a good dose of Buddhism! Also, the people on the streets are so much more polite than in the U.S. People actually try to give each other space and are not aggressive in claiming space to walk. What I have experienced is a much more polite, calmer society.
I am still thinking about the panel discussion last night regarding the Khmer Rouge war crimes tribunal. It will be exciting to be in Cambodia and to actually ask Cambodians their thoughts on the tribunal or that period in general. Most people in their 30s and above have been affected by this genocide and most have lost family members. We are going to an open Thai market later today. This is a market where the merchants bargain to sell their goods. It is a night market that opens at 6. Everyone in the program is excited to have a day where we can explore the city on our own.
I am planning on having Internet access in Siem Reap, Cambodia, but I am not so sure it will be as reliable as Bangkok. Hopefully, I will be able to continue my posting tomorrow from Cambodia.
Happy 4th of July!
An American in Bangkok Interesting Fact of the Day is Keith, who is from Nebraska, once quit high school.
2 comments:
Phil,
It looks like you are having a great time. I especially enjoy the cultural observances.
Have a good trip to Cambodia.
Happy 4th!
Kathy
Phil - Hope you have a great trip, I am jealous! It sounds like a great Summer "Job" Let us know what you find out about the tribunal, I believe Pol Pot is dead but many of his henchman are still alive and living in the jungles. How many of them are in prison and awaiting trial.
I would be interested in hearing about the local cuisine, have you tried much? How about eel and do they really eat cats and dogs? I am sure it is an old tail (ha ha)
Happy travels and write more
Paul (your twin brother for those that don't believe he has one?
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