Truth is, I didn’t expect to like Asia at all. But I can say that it was easy to fall in love with. The people, the culture, the friendships and memories made, and almost everything about this place stole a piece of my heart, and I hope to come back one day!
Here’s just a few things that are a given, or that I enjoyed about Asia:
• Rice is served with every single meal
• Don’t even think about wearing your shoes inside
• Showers and toilets have no barrier between… we call it a “shoilet”
• Tourists want a picture with you… sometimes they try to be sneaky and it’s just creepy.
• There’s signs outside of businesses/ hotels that say “no durian allowed inside”— durian is an Asian fruit that smells and taste like stinky feet.
• You think the rapture has come from the hours of 10 am- 6 pm, but realize everyone and their mother comes out at night…
• Street food is everywhere… after 6 pm of course!
• Asian children just have something so special about them!
• If you’re crossing the street… you better commit- even if you have to hold your hand out and stop traffic
• You realize you’re no longer the “new people in town” when the tourists start to follow your lead of when to cross the street… not gunna lie, I might look at them like they’re “rookies” lol
• Horns are not honked out of road rage…it’s actually kind of a friendly thing saying “hey I’m right behind ya” or “hey I’m coming up beside ya!”
• A grab – basically Uber – is usually around $2-$6… 45 minute drive to the beach, I’ll take it!
• WiFi is everywhere… and “free” if you buy something… but it doesn’t mean it’s going to work.
• Motos are the super cool thrilling method of transportation that you want so badly to break the rules on… but get shut down because all the locals basically tell you it’s a death wish.
• 7$ ATM fees… I love you Thailand, but take a hike.
• Don’t think about wearing your hair down… walk outside, sweat. Walk inside, sweat.
• Temperatures/ humidity – comparable to none other than the Lone Star state. HOTTTTT
• Diversity!!! There are so many different cultures (in Malaysia), which means there’s actually options for food! – – a real treat when you’re sick of egg fried rice.
• Boaba tea, milk tea, coffee, & Italian soda, are found everywhere.
• Drinks in a bag (I never did this but I saw it everywhere)
• Indian food … Every.Single.Night. What was life before cheese naan, chicken and green sauce????
• Except for Sunday’s, Sunday’s are for Chili’s! (I think it was a present from the Lord)
For now, my squad will spend a week in the capital with our coaches debriefing the continent, our teams, and vision casting for what’s to come in Central America! Next stop: NICARAGUA for MONTH 9!! I can’t believe “month 9” is even part of my vocabulary right now….
