Teaching Dutch in PhiMai!
Trip Start
Mar 04, 2006
1
29
32
Trip End
Nov 04, 2006
Phi Mai,
Thailand
Thursday, October 12, 2006
After a short stop in Bangkok I took the bus to Nahkon Ratchasima, big city one hour from PhiMai. A, her younger sister An and boyfriend B (yes, all nicknames) picked me up and we had our first great Thai meal together. In traditional style: lots of different dishes, most of them spicy! It was great and also surprisingly normal to meet A. She is a lovely person with a good heart. Very talkative, funny and strong minded. In some ways we are even alike. From the start it clicked and we live in her house like sisters. It also warms my heart to see that she and my brother are very much in love. He deserves nothing less.
After a few days of chilling and sorting things out, we have started our Dutch lessons now. Enjoy teaching her and she is a great student, eager to learn
01_First thai meal with A (left), An and B
. Really hope she will be able to do the Basic Integration Exam when I'm still here. The exam is pretty difficult (more details next time). In our spare time we explore the village on the scooter (the local transport in Thailand!), spend time with friends, do Thai cooking (she is great cook!) and I try to learn some Thai language as well.Yesterday we had a study break and visited a temple because one of her friends was becoming a Buddhist monk. I felt very special to be part of this......until she explained me he was only going to be a monk for a WEEK as he had to get back to work after (???). WHAT?? I thought you chose this for life! In Thailand however it is possible to become a monk for any period of time. He only did it to please his parents as it is a very respectful thing to do. After the ceremony he received water and money. I could not help myself wondering: Is it only about the money?
With almost a month more in PhiMai, Thailand, I am very curious which other local customs I will get to know. Of course you will read about them when I do.
Big Hug,
Liekie
