So here I am, in Chachoengsao, Thailand, a woman of Kenyan decent, educated in the US and eyes wide open to the anomaly that I am in this land of smiles. Everywhere I go, people stare. I am here to teach English. How I managed to attain this position, on a Kenyan passport, in a land where most people assume Africa is an undeveloped wasteland where nobody speaks English, is a matter of friends and connections. I'm sure all my friends from the mother land are wondering, "How on earth did she end up going to Thailand and why leave the US for some random place in South East Asia?"
Well, it is a long story. For now, all I shall say is that I have been plagued by culture shock. I shall be updating you on everything from the difference in toilet hygiene styles, the problem of color, the crazy soi dogs, and my desperate search for an ultrasonic dog repellent and a phone technician.
Before I left Atlanta, I spent endless nights reading about racism, religion, hair salons, Korea Towns, anything and everything that would prepare me before my move to Thailand. As a black woman with natural hair, my first question when I travel is always: Where I'm I going to get my hair done? I have yet to find a solution here in Chachoengsao, but the internet rumor mill has it that there is a thriving Africa Town down in Bangkok that I intend to visit sometime soon. Everyone who knows me, knows I'm all about diversity and equality. I love world travel but, not at the expense of being treated half-human because of my race. I have heard horror stories,but I'm yet to experience any discrimination here. I thank God.I also love Korean everything-food, food, karaoke, food, cosmetics, food...and food! So yes!That's why I search for the local Korea Towns.
This is just a brief introduction to my Thai Travels. I will be writing in depth about some of my experiences. I hope you shall enjoy the ride with me. Feel free to email me with questions and topics you'd like me to cover.
Sincerely,
The Traveler.
No comments:
Post a Comment