Thailand

One of the most frequently asked questions I get from people is "why did you choose Thailand?" Answering that question before I arrived here about two weeks ago, I would give a very uninformed reason. I would say reasons such as "I'm going for the food", or "Its super cheap (like me) and has beautiful beaches". Now don't get me wrong, the food is amazing here, and the beaches are breath taking, but I am coming to realize I have discovered just a small piece of all the wonderful things Thailand has to offer.

Meet my new friend. He has attachment issues and I am still trying to explain to him what my "personal bubble" means, but nevertheless, he was the first elephant I've ever seen in person!

This Picture is from Pattaya Thailand, A beach town south of Bangkok. I spent New Years Eve with international friends of mine, as we lighted countless amounts of lamps and let them float to the sky. One of the most beautiful sights I have ever took part in, looking down the beach for miles watching lamps float into the distance and fireworks exploding everywhere!

I know what you're thinking... NO, I didn't take a selfie with a monk. It's hard to tell, but he is actually made out of wax! After meeting some Thai friends at school, I was brought to one of the local museums and was lucky enough to learn some very interesting history and culture about Thailand.

Is culture shock real? YES. I thought Hawaii was a big culture shock two years ago when I came for school. Thailand is a whole different world! I do think Hawaii prepared me better for this experience, as it allowed me to meet people of other cultures and adapt to different lifestyles. 

I was looking for something totally different and I for surely got it coming to Thailand. I realize I am still in the honeymoon phase here but this experience has already been well worth it for me. 

Until next time!

Hunter Haas