The Language

I have spent the year learning and very much enjoying German. It came time to think of summer plans and I expressed the interest of applying my newly acquired German skills. That’s why we are going to Bangkok.

While English, Russian and German will be helpful (most likely listed in exponentially decreasing order of helpfulness), I figure that I should learn at least a couple basic phrases. If there’s something you need to know, where ya gonna search? WIKIPEDIA.

Tangent: Though skeptics question the validity of the information, I have found an answer to many (nerdy) questions on Wikipedia. Plus my dad has had the same experience and he is really smart.

Sa-wat-dii. Sabaai-dii rue?

Numbers will be important for bargaining with merchants.

suun*, nueng, song, saam, sii**, haa, hok, jet, paet, kao, sip

* In the spirit of my newly earned degree, I begin with zero.
** Papa, enjoy.

And one phrase I don’t expect to use:

kâo jai – I understand.

Asia beyond Siberia

Half way across Russia is pretty far east as far as the Eurocentric map is concerned, but not south enough. I've spent some time reading up on vaccines, safety, cultural customs as well as the normal touristy inquiries. Admittedly this has mixed some apprehension in with the excitement. But then I realized that most of my living extended family in Russia has traveled to Thailand and returned time and time again (don’t ask how many, I’ve lost count). In the photos, everyone is smiling and tan even when posing next to a fully grown tiger. Maybe I’m not ready to take on a tiger, but the elephants and monkeys I can handle.

Disclaimer

Since I did not create this blog, I do not promise prompt and regular updates. However, the trip should prove exciting (especially given the magnitude of the preparations) and thus keep my interest in posting.