Didn't have time to write this when we first found out . . . Cambodia has officially been moved off of the Tier II Watchlist and is now firmly on Tier II of the U.S. State Department's annual Trafficking in Persons (TIP) Report for the first time in 4 years. http://www.state.gov/g/tip/rls/tiprpt/2008/
Pretty exciting eh? Eh?
Also, elections are fast approaching (July) and I'm fairly interested in seeing how things actually go down here . . . I'm considering volunteering to be an election monitor through another NGO here. Most people say the elections have already been decided and that there is a .1% chance of things changing. Nevertheless, I'd still like to get a chance to observe the process (whatever process that may be).
And again, I promise to write a real entry soon . . . and by "soon" I mean "when I get a chance"
PEACE
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
Thursday, May 29, 2008
change of plans
So, um, yeah. Remember how I said that I was only going to be away for about 6 months? Turns out I will be extending my stay in Cambodia a little longer. Not exactly sure when I'll be returning to the states (I might toss in some extra traveling after the work is finished), but I will be sure to keep you updated to the best of my ability.
I've decided to stay for various reasons, but foremost among those reasons is that I would like to see the project I'm currently working on to its conclusion. To all my peeps in the Lou, don't worry . . . you will be seeing my shining face of gloriousness before you know it (and promptly become annoyed with me again).
Anyways, I will write a real entry soon . . . lots of love.
PEACE
I've decided to stay for various reasons, but foremost among those reasons is that I would like to see the project I'm currently working on to its conclusion. To all my peeps in the Lou, don't worry . . . you will be seeing my shining face of gloriousness before you know it (and promptly become annoyed with me again).
Anyways, I will write a real entry soon . . . lots of love.
PEACE
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
Toilet Paper and Babies
Two blogs in two days? Both incredibly random? I know, I know, I'm just full of surprises.
I forgot to mention something else interesting and random in my last entry. Last week I was able to go to an art exhibit opening for a Khmer artist based in Battambang. It was incredible. Not only is she an amazing painter, but she sculpts too. She sculpts with toilet paper believe it or not. Its a painstaking process in which she rolls the toilet paper (which she sometimes steals from restaurants she gleefully told us) with glue and then proceeds to wrap it either around objects, or sculpts with it on its own. Man, oh man, I wish I had even a smidge of the artistic talent this woman possesses. After the art exhibit, we went to a fantastic Malaysian restaurant (although they were out of the crispy spring roll things I like). We also accidently bumped into the car of someone who I can only assume was a gangster, which was pretty exciting, but ultimately uneventful.
Onto the baby part. I'm pleased to announce that my neighbor T.'s sister (who also happens to be my neighbor) has just had a baby boy (5 days old now). T. brought the little fella to my apartment yesterday. I got to hold him at which point she also tried to convince me to take him with me when I go home, along with all of the other children that are giving her a hassle (she was just joking guys, come on). I still can't figure out if he has an English name or not (which is what it sounded like), but he's cute as a button and I just thought I'd share. The visit was brief because baby got hungry and I probably smelled really foreign to him.
I forgot to mention something else interesting and random in my last entry. Last week I was able to go to an art exhibit opening for a Khmer artist based in Battambang. It was incredible. Not only is she an amazing painter, but she sculpts too. She sculpts with toilet paper believe it or not. Its a painstaking process in which she rolls the toilet paper (which she sometimes steals from restaurants she gleefully told us) with glue and then proceeds to wrap it either around objects, or sculpts with it on its own. Man, oh man, I wish I had even a smidge of the artistic talent this woman possesses. After the art exhibit, we went to a fantastic Malaysian restaurant (although they were out of the crispy spring roll things I like). We also accidently bumped into the car of someone who I can only assume was a gangster, which was pretty exciting, but ultimately uneventful.
Onto the baby part. I'm pleased to announce that my neighbor T.'s sister (who also happens to be my neighbor) has just had a baby boy (5 days old now). T. brought the little fella to my apartment yesterday. I got to hold him at which point she also tried to convince me to take him with me when I go home, along with all of the other children that are giving her a hassle (she was just joking guys, come on). I still can't figure out if he has an English name or not (which is what it sounded like), but he's cute as a button and I just thought I'd share. The visit was brief because baby got hungry and I probably smelled really foreign to him.
Monday, April 28, 2008
Neighborly Love and Royal D
Sorry, this will be a kind of random post, just felt like an update was called for. The cultural differences between Cambodia and the U.S. never cease to amaze. A couple weekends ago, I brought some work home and was working with A. in my apartment. Now, granted, I am not the tidiest of people, but I've really been making an effort here. (Although my parents won't believe me, its the truth! I clean!) Unfortunately, when my neighbor T. stopped by with children in tow as per usual, I had neglected to sweep or take out my trash for about a week (all right, all right, maybe it was more than a week). Seeing this, T. took it upon herself to clean my apartment.
Needless to say, I was horrified. Horrified!! Despite all my protestations she persisted. It was the most uncomfortable experience, but she kept saying that she wanted to do it for me (seriously, it almost turned into a fight). All I could do in return was give the children some candy and dried mango.
Let me just tell you how much I love my neighbors--Every morning I come down the steps and if one of the regular moto drivers are not there, they help me flag one down and actually bargain with the driver for me. One time when I was coming home from a particularly rough day at work and the moto driver was giving me a particularly rough time, T. full out yelled at him. Completely balled him out. It was shocking (and amazing) and I could do nothing in return but give her a big hug. (Although, I have to say that it is less of a pleasant experience when I'm the one getting admonished for not turning on the stair light or for smoking too much.)
Whereas other people quickly give up, T. actually tries to communicate with me (despite the fact that I speak next to no Khmer). Between the tiny bit of English that she speaks and the tiny bit of Khmer that I speak, most of our communication happens to through mime (which can be pretty amusing and I'm beginning to prefer it to speaking). I also suspect that it was T. who took my laundry in one day when it was raining (although I do question how exactly she got access to my house when it was locked).
While I don't always get the privacy that I became accustomed to in the U.S. (excluding freshman year of college), I think that I will truly miss the children banging on my gate, screaming "BONG ROS-EY!" at the top of their lungs. ("Bong" is a polite way of addressing someone that is older than you, and I much prefer it to "Baraang," the word for foreigner. The basic English equivalent is "Miss Rosie" although "bong" is used in different ways as well). I'll also miss them banging on my back door and running away and laughing. They are so incredibly sweet and rascally and full of youthful mischief.
On a less happy note, I finally got my first bout of sickness here over the Khmer New Year (so much for getting a lot of work accomplished). I'm definitely lucky that this was the first time, considering I've already been here for almost 4 months . . . didn't have to go to the doctor or anything. I'm ok now, and I have to say, one of the positives of getting sick was that I was introduced to this marvelous elixir called Royal D.
Royal D tastes exactly like Tang and is a powder that you mix with water so that you can rehydrate, full of electrolytes and awesomeness (much better than the rehydration stuff I brought with me from home which tastes like vomit). I bought a big box and have at least one every day b/c its so freaking hot here that I'm sweating constantly (yes, a very attractive image I know). I wish I could take 5 cases home with me, but I'd probably get stopped at the airport . . . the charge, you ask? Smuggling deliciousness.
List of Other Things I Wish I Could Smuggle Home:
* White Rabbit candy.
* All the dried mango I can find.
* The entire fruit market next to my apartment.
* Cambodian iced coffee with the sweet milk, often served in a plastic bag with a straw.
* The masala dosa and vegetable biriyani from my new favorite Indian restaurant.
* A moto (but not one of the fancy shiny motorcycles, I'll take an old school moto any day) or a tuk tuk . . . these items might be kind of hard to fit in my suitcase though.
* Oh yeah, and a palm tree, a monkey, and an elemaphant.
Needless to say, I was horrified. Horrified!! Despite all my protestations she persisted. It was the most uncomfortable experience, but she kept saying that she wanted to do it for me (seriously, it almost turned into a fight). All I could do in return was give the children some candy and dried mango.
Let me just tell you how much I love my neighbors--Every morning I come down the steps and if one of the regular moto drivers are not there, they help me flag one down and actually bargain with the driver for me. One time when I was coming home from a particularly rough day at work and the moto driver was giving me a particularly rough time, T. full out yelled at him. Completely balled him out. It was shocking (and amazing) and I could do nothing in return but give her a big hug. (Although, I have to say that it is less of a pleasant experience when I'm the one getting admonished for not turning on the stair light or for smoking too much.)
Whereas other people quickly give up, T. actually tries to communicate with me (despite the fact that I speak next to no Khmer). Between the tiny bit of English that she speaks and the tiny bit of Khmer that I speak, most of our communication happens to through mime (which can be pretty amusing and I'm beginning to prefer it to speaking). I also suspect that it was T. who took my laundry in one day when it was raining (although I do question how exactly she got access to my house when it was locked).
While I don't always get the privacy that I became accustomed to in the U.S. (excluding freshman year of college), I think that I will truly miss the children banging on my gate, screaming "BONG ROS-EY!" at the top of their lungs. ("Bong" is a polite way of addressing someone that is older than you, and I much prefer it to "Baraang," the word for foreigner. The basic English equivalent is "Miss Rosie" although "bong" is used in different ways as well). I'll also miss them banging on my back door and running away and laughing. They are so incredibly sweet and rascally and full of youthful mischief.
On a less happy note, I finally got my first bout of sickness here over the Khmer New Year (so much for getting a lot of work accomplished). I'm definitely lucky that this was the first time, considering I've already been here for almost 4 months . . . didn't have to go to the doctor or anything. I'm ok now, and I have to say, one of the positives of getting sick was that I was introduced to this marvelous elixir called Royal D.
Royal D tastes exactly like Tang and is a powder that you mix with water so that you can rehydrate, full of electrolytes and awesomeness (much better than the rehydration stuff I brought with me from home which tastes like vomit). I bought a big box and have at least one every day b/c its so freaking hot here that I'm sweating constantly (yes, a very attractive image I know). I wish I could take 5 cases home with me, but I'd probably get stopped at the airport . . . the charge, you ask? Smuggling deliciousness.
List of Other Things I Wish I Could Smuggle Home:
* White Rabbit candy.
* All the dried mango I can find.
* The entire fruit market next to my apartment.
* Cambodian iced coffee with the sweet milk, often served in a plastic bag with a straw.
* The masala dosa and vegetable biriyani from my new favorite Indian restaurant.
* A moto (but not one of the fancy shiny motorcycles, I'll take an old school moto any day) or a tuk tuk . . . these items might be kind of hard to fit in my suitcase though.
* Oh yeah, and a palm tree, a monkey, and an elemaphant.
Thursday, April 10, 2008
Sua Sdei Chnnam Thmey
Happy Khmer New Year!! Just thought I'd share . . . I'm not sure when the official dates are, but everybody at the office has started saying it already and we are supposed to get Monday and Tuesday off, but a lot of people are taking the entire week.
I, of course, will be at the office (or else I won't be able to finish everything by the time my internship is over - no worries, I plan on traveling later!). Working over Khmer New Year is actually a blessing in disguise because traveling during this time is really really expensive and the city basically shuts down so there would be nothing to do. I will tell you however - they will rue the day that they decided I (of all people) was supposed to in charge of developing a budget and contract! Rue it. Boo to math and anything else that is beyond my technical abilities. Although, really, it's a new challenge and learning experience from which I hope to gain.
Anyway, so, may you have a wonderful new year with prosperity, joy, lots of babies, and no hair loss.
PEACE
I, of course, will be at the office (or else I won't be able to finish everything by the time my internship is over - no worries, I plan on traveling later!). Working over Khmer New Year is actually a blessing in disguise because traveling during this time is really really expensive and the city basically shuts down so there would be nothing to do. I will tell you however - they will rue the day that they decided I (of all people) was supposed to in charge of developing a budget and contract! Rue it. Boo to math and anything else that is beyond my technical abilities. Although, really, it's a new challenge and learning experience from which I hope to gain.
Anyway, so, may you have a wonderful new year with prosperity, joy, lots of babies, and no hair loss.
PEACE
Monday, March 31, 2008
Bamboo Island and Notes on Development
So I've arrived refreshed and invigorated from my brief time in Sihanouk Ville. The workshop went really well (apparently nobody could tell that I was a nervous wreck during my presentation . . . and I wasn't even wearing my presentation dress), and I decided to take Friday off and continue my stay in Sihanouk Ville as I was in no hurry to return to the hard streets of Phnom Penh.
On our much needed day off, A. and I, decided to go to Bamboo Island. Wading out into the water, we climbed aboard a small boat and took a 40 minute ride to the island. Upon arrival, I was greeted by the sight of small thatch-roofed huts, clean white sand, lush vegetation, and pretty much nothing else. Joining the rest of tourists, I plopped down, and mentally prepared myself for a day of blessed relaxation.
The majority of the day was spent swimming in the beautiful and clean water and napping in the sand. Needless to say, I arrived back in Phnom Penh completely sunburned. We ate a fantastic lunch of amok (delicious Khmer food that uses a delightful curry/coconut sauce. . . usually cooked with fish and served in a banana leaf) and fresh salad and then swam and napped some more.
The only thing that put a kink in the day was that we traveled with a man who was (how shall I put this) . . . slightly racist. And by slightly--I mean full on. He also openly admitted to using prostitutes but claimed that "I mean, its not like I'm not a pedophile, I always check their ages first." Mmmkay. I think the term "dirty old bugger" is particularly apt here. After we managed to ditch the DOB and made it back to the mainland, we ate at an awesome restaurant called "The Holy Cow". While it was mainly baraang food, it was still spectacular and I have to say that there is nothing like a good meal after a day spent playing in the waves. Blissfully exhausted, we headed back to the guesthouse and passed into much needed slumber.
A NOTE ON TRAVELING IN THE PROVINCES:
Rent your own moto or bicycle. We rented a moto (I of course did not drive . . . ever heard the phrase "accident waiting to happen?") and I totally don't regret it. Having your own form of transportation makes it much easier to explore (and isn't that the point of traveling and having small adventures?), and at the end of the day it costs a lot less money than if you hired a moto or tuk tuk driver. So if you're traveling on a budget, this is definitely the way to go.
A NOTE ON DEVELOPMENT:
I don't know what lies in store for this little town, and I'm afraid to say that development, if not done conscientiously, could destroy all the beauty that Sihanouk Ville possesses. While I will never make the blanket statement that tourism is completely horrible (this town is financially dependent on it), it does bring the negative with it. Already land is being bought up, small shops are closing down, and beaches are not what they used to be (according to sources that have been here before). In addition, there was a publicized case about a Russian businessman who bought an island off the coast and was recently convicted of pedophilia. There are also plans to build a casino on one of the islands, with added airport so that businessmen from the city, Thailand and other Asian countries can just fly right in. Tourism brings jobs and money, but it also brings brothels (which means it brings in women trafficked for sexual exploitation), forced labor, and the destruction of the natural habitat. What is the solution?
I also worry about the kids that come up to us on the beach and that are incredibly over-affectionate (touchy feely, lots of hugs, lots of playing with our hair). We try to tell them that they shouldn't be so friendly with strangers and that "some baraangs are nice and some are not so nice." They smile and nod, but I am always disappointed to see that they run off to another group of baraangs and do it again. Of course there are Child Safe Tourism billboards/flyers around town in addition to NGO groups that walk the beaches and educate the children, but its not enough. Most of these kids speak some English (some speak better English than I do), and are incredibly business savy (they know exactly what to say to get a sale), but undoubtedly, this is not something that they enjoy. After speaking with several, many said that they would much rather be in school. (Oh, how I used to take school for granted.)
It is a complex world, this development business. I struggle daily with the idea that we may be causing more damage than good and the fact that, while it may sound romantic to some, the development world can be treacherous. Do we have to settle for the tiniest bit of incremental change, or is there a better way to do development work? Why are people drawn to the development field? Is it truly altruism? Does true altruism exist? Are the people who are drawn to development unprepared for the compromises that they will have to make or are these people that are coming in too willing to make compromises? Anyway, just something for me to think about, and perhaps you as well.
PEACE
On our much needed day off, A. and I, decided to go to Bamboo Island. Wading out into the water, we climbed aboard a small boat and took a 40 minute ride to the island. Upon arrival, I was greeted by the sight of small thatch-roofed huts, clean white sand, lush vegetation, and pretty much nothing else. Joining the rest of tourists, I plopped down, and mentally prepared myself for a day of blessed relaxation.
The majority of the day was spent swimming in the beautiful and clean water and napping in the sand. Needless to say, I arrived back in Phnom Penh completely sunburned. We ate a fantastic lunch of amok (delicious Khmer food that uses a delightful curry/coconut sauce. . . usually cooked with fish and served in a banana leaf) and fresh salad and then swam and napped some more.
The only thing that put a kink in the day was that we traveled with a man who was (how shall I put this) . . . slightly racist. And by slightly--I mean full on. He also openly admitted to using prostitutes but claimed that "I mean, its not like I'm not a pedophile, I always check their ages first." Mmmkay. I think the term "dirty old bugger" is particularly apt here. After we managed to ditch the DOB and made it back to the mainland, we ate at an awesome restaurant called "The Holy Cow". While it was mainly baraang food, it was still spectacular and I have to say that there is nothing like a good meal after a day spent playing in the waves. Blissfully exhausted, we headed back to the guesthouse and passed into much needed slumber.
A NOTE ON TRAVELING IN THE PROVINCES:
Rent your own moto or bicycle. We rented a moto (I of course did not drive . . . ever heard the phrase "accident waiting to happen?") and I totally don't regret it. Having your own form of transportation makes it much easier to explore (and isn't that the point of traveling and having small adventures?), and at the end of the day it costs a lot less money than if you hired a moto or tuk tuk driver. So if you're traveling on a budget, this is definitely the way to go.
A NOTE ON DEVELOPMENT:
I don't know what lies in store for this little town, and I'm afraid to say that development, if not done conscientiously, could destroy all the beauty that Sihanouk Ville possesses. While I will never make the blanket statement that tourism is completely horrible (this town is financially dependent on it), it does bring the negative with it. Already land is being bought up, small shops are closing down, and beaches are not what they used to be (according to sources that have been here before). In addition, there was a publicized case about a Russian businessman who bought an island off the coast and was recently convicted of pedophilia. There are also plans to build a casino on one of the islands, with added airport so that businessmen from the city, Thailand and other Asian countries can just fly right in. Tourism brings jobs and money, but it also brings brothels (which means it brings in women trafficked for sexual exploitation), forced labor, and the destruction of the natural habitat. What is the solution?
I also worry about the kids that come up to us on the beach and that are incredibly over-affectionate (touchy feely, lots of hugs, lots of playing with our hair). We try to tell them that they shouldn't be so friendly with strangers and that "some baraangs are nice and some are not so nice." They smile and nod, but I am always disappointed to see that they run off to another group of baraangs and do it again. Of course there are Child Safe Tourism billboards/flyers around town in addition to NGO groups that walk the beaches and educate the children, but its not enough. Most of these kids speak some English (some speak better English than I do), and are incredibly business savy (they know exactly what to say to get a sale), but undoubtedly, this is not something that they enjoy. After speaking with several, many said that they would much rather be in school. (Oh, how I used to take school for granted.)
It is a complex world, this development business. I struggle daily with the idea that we may be causing more damage than good and the fact that, while it may sound romantic to some, the development world can be treacherous. Do we have to settle for the tiniest bit of incremental change, or is there a better way to do development work? Why are people drawn to the development field? Is it truly altruism? Does true altruism exist? Are the people who are drawn to development unprepared for the compromises that they will have to make or are these people that are coming in too willing to make compromises? Anyway, just something for me to think about, and perhaps you as well.
PEACE
Monday, March 24, 2008
Just a Quickie
Just a quick hello. . .
Yes, I'm still here, alive and well, just have been busy with work (insanely busy as a matter of fact). I'm heading out to Kampong Som (aka Sihanoukville) tomorrow afternoon for another workshop, and I'm hoping that I will at least get to catch a glimpse of the beach, as this might be my only opportunity to visit this "must-see destination."
Hmmm . . . . anything else that is interesting? Well, probably yes, but not enough time to write it all. Anyway. Still working on getting the requested pictures of dragon fruit and me on a moto. No new tattoos or piercings yet, but one can always dream.
Hope everyone is well, and I'd love to hear what's going on in your lives.
PEACE
P.S. The entire office got an email about "appropriate/professional dress." Didn't they get the memo that flip flops are social workers' footwear of choice? Oh well, I guess I should hold off on those tattoos and piercings.
Yes, I'm still here, alive and well, just have been busy with work (insanely busy as a matter of fact). I'm heading out to Kampong Som (aka Sihanoukville) tomorrow afternoon for another workshop, and I'm hoping that I will at least get to catch a glimpse of the beach, as this might be my only opportunity to visit this "must-see destination."
Hmmm . . . . anything else that is interesting? Well, probably yes, but not enough time to write it all. Anyway. Still working on getting the requested pictures of dragon fruit and me on a moto. No new tattoos or piercings yet, but one can always dream.
Hope everyone is well, and I'd love to hear what's going on in your lives.
PEACE
P.S. The entire office got an email about "appropriate/professional dress." Didn't they get the memo that flip flops are social workers' footwear of choice? Oh well, I guess I should hold off on those tattoos and piercings.
Sunday, March 9, 2008
Videos
If you wanted to catch the tv spot and the karaoke video . . . . here are the links:
PEACE
TV spot:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rjqP5wYqElA
Karaoke video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9v7I5Cx06eg
PEACE
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
Wedding Season and The Bong
Ah, the glorious Bong . . . Battambong that is. It was absolutely amazing to get away from the hustle and bustle of Phnom Penh. On the way up to Battambang, we took a taxi with 3 other local adults, one of which was a mother with a 3 month old baby and 5 year old daughter. The mother was particularly amazing in that she had to change the baby's nickers multiple times during the 3-4 hour car ride. A. graciously invited me to stay at her house in Battambang, which was fantastic and we were visited by a lot of the neighbor kids, some of whom were extremely mischievous (really cute) and had the habit of yelling "baraangbaraangbaraangbaraang" in my ear (just in case I forgot :) ). We made paper airplanes during the day and strummed along tunelessly on the guitar by candlelight at night.
Listening to the cicadas and crickets, along with an occasional odd remark from a gecko, and stargazing definitely rejuvenated me for another week at work. Across the road there was a woman who sold these phenomenal rice treats (about 100 rial a pop, which equals a couple of US cents), flavors including banana, pumpkin, and coconut in addition to some savory options. The treats are wrapped up and steamed in banana leafs and I don't think I have ever tasted anything so delicious in my life.
"DOES SHE WANT ANOTHER ONE?"
One of the men on the car ride up (thankfully he was sitting in front) decided that I looked Khmer and kept asking me if I had a boyfriend or if I was married. Of course, I lied and A. helped me. The conversation (mixed with English & Khmer) went a little like this:
The guy: "Do you have boyfriend? You married?"
A : "Oh yes, she's engaged and he is very big and handsome." (This is a common response. Translation-- he can beat you up, leave us alone.)
The guy: "Oh. Where is he?"
A: "He's from/in America."
The guy: "Oh. That's so far away. Does she want another one?"
Rosie piping up: "Um, no thanks, I'm good."
This is a common conversation here, and part of the standard range of questions that get asked upon meeting someone new, which include:
* What's your name?
* How old are you? (If this is asked after the marriage question (see below), I am often met with a look of sympathy or concern.)
* Nationality (followed by, "Oh, you don't look American" . . . so I launch into my standard explanation "Ma knyom jen" = "My mother is Chinese")
* Are you married? Why not? Are you engaged? Do you have a boyfriend? Are you ever planning on getting married?
WEDDING SEASON:
Went to my very first Khmer wedding and it was incredibly beautiful (am going to another wedding this weekend). The bride changed dresses (all very colorful) about three times while I was there, but apparently there are many more dress changes that go on. Each time the bride changed, the bridesmaids also changed to match her, and the groomsmen changed a couple times as well. There was lots of dancing around a table both Khmer style (my Khmer dancing is hilariously abysmal) and Western style (come to think of it, my overall dancing ability is questionable). With 8 courses of food, nobody went hungry (except perhaps for the vegetarians), and a good time was had by all.
"Saart" (Pretty/Beautiful) - We decided that we would get all saart-ed out for the wedding . . . Cambodian style. We rented dresses from the market (which you would have to see to believe) which are clearly from the 80s, colorful, and awesome. In addition, we got our hair and make-up done at a local salon, and I have to say - I haven't had that much make-up put on my face since my acting debut in Wydown Middle School's production of The Pirates of Penzance. Big eyes, big hair. Awesome. Also, trying to ride a moto side-saddle in a satiny dress is not the safest decision I have ever made in my life. After slipping off (well, kind of jumping off because I was starting to slide), I decided to be completely inappropriate and ride normally (normally for me that is). We got a bunch of hollers as we sped through town and looked ridiculous (which is also awesome).
Interesting notes on weddings: people do not typically buy wedding presents. Instead, people bring ten dollars and put in an envelope to give to the couple. The wedding ceremonies usually take 3 days and guests only go to the reception part. Also, if you don't have the money (and it's really expensive) you can't get married, which means you can't live together or anything.
Ok, I think that's about all I can take regarding weddings, marriage, and anything related to the relationship business.
PEACE
p.s. I have decided that roosters scare me. No, it's not the bird flu issue - rather, it that they are bullies and are inappropriately loud at the most inopportune of times.
Listening to the cicadas and crickets, along with an occasional odd remark from a gecko, and stargazing definitely rejuvenated me for another week at work. Across the road there was a woman who sold these phenomenal rice treats (about 100 rial a pop, which equals a couple of US cents), flavors including banana, pumpkin, and coconut in addition to some savory options. The treats are wrapped up and steamed in banana leafs and I don't think I have ever tasted anything so delicious in my life.
"DOES SHE WANT ANOTHER ONE?"
One of the men on the car ride up (thankfully he was sitting in front) decided that I looked Khmer and kept asking me if I had a boyfriend or if I was married. Of course, I lied and A. helped me. The conversation (mixed with English & Khmer) went a little like this:
The guy: "Do you have boyfriend? You married?"
A : "Oh yes, she's engaged and he is very big and handsome." (This is a common response. Translation-- he can beat you up, leave us alone.)
The guy: "Oh. Where is he?"
A: "He's from/in America."
The guy: "Oh. That's so far away. Does she want another one?"
Rosie piping up: "Um, no thanks, I'm good."
This is a common conversation here, and part of the standard range of questions that get asked upon meeting someone new, which include:
* What's your name?
* How old are you? (If this is asked after the marriage question (see below), I am often met with a look of sympathy or concern.)
* Nationality (followed by, "Oh, you don't look American" . . . so I launch into my standard explanation "Ma knyom jen" = "My mother is Chinese")
* Are you married? Why not? Are you engaged? Do you have a boyfriend? Are you ever planning on getting married?
WEDDING SEASON:
Went to my very first Khmer wedding and it was incredibly beautiful (am going to another wedding this weekend). The bride changed dresses (all very colorful) about three times while I was there, but apparently there are many more dress changes that go on. Each time the bride changed, the bridesmaids also changed to match her, and the groomsmen changed a couple times as well. There was lots of dancing around a table both Khmer style (my Khmer dancing is hilariously abysmal) and Western style (come to think of it, my overall dancing ability is questionable). With 8 courses of food, nobody went hungry (except perhaps for the vegetarians), and a good time was had by all.
"Saart" (Pretty/Beautiful) - We decided that we would get all saart-ed out for the wedding . . . Cambodian style. We rented dresses from the market (which you would have to see to believe) which are clearly from the 80s, colorful, and awesome. In addition, we got our hair and make-up done at a local salon, and I have to say - I haven't had that much make-up put on my face since my acting debut in Wydown Middle School's production of The Pirates of Penzance. Big eyes, big hair. Awesome. Also, trying to ride a moto side-saddle in a satiny dress is not the safest decision I have ever made in my life. After slipping off (well, kind of jumping off because I was starting to slide), I decided to be completely inappropriate and ride normally (normally for me that is). We got a bunch of hollers as we sped through town and looked ridiculous (which is also awesome).
Interesting notes on weddings: people do not typically buy wedding presents. Instead, people bring ten dollars and put in an envelope to give to the couple. The wedding ceremonies usually take 3 days and guests only go to the reception part. Also, if you don't have the money (and it's really expensive) you can't get married, which means you can't live together or anything.
Ok, I think that's about all I can take regarding weddings, marriage, and anything related to the relationship business.
PEACE
p.s. I have decided that roosters scare me. No, it's not the bird flu issue - rather, it that they are bullies and are inappropriately loud at the most inopportune of times.
Saturday, February 16, 2008
Small Adventures
Apologies for not writing for awhile, work is a circus right now. A circus I say! As the office is busily working on upcoming projects to be launched in March, combined with my unit's work . . . emotions are running pretty high! I was going to write a short piece on Men and Women (hilarious stuff), but am running low on time, so I thought an update might suffice for now.
About a week ago I went on a short boating cruise down the Mekong with some people from work and their friends. We took off from the "dock" in front of the Royal Palace right after sunset, and although it was dark and I couldn't see much, the wind in my hair, good food, and good company provided a much needed release from the hectic work schedule that is my life. Sitting on the upper deck, I blocked out the hip hop that was being played for a 2 year old's birthday party on the lower deck (we got to cheer her on as she was supposed to blow out the candles--freaking adorable b/c her older sister blew them out before she got a chance) and concentrated on having non-work-related conversation.
After the boat ride we walked along the riverfront, through throngs of people who were getting an early start on the weekend, and past the vendors who were selling roses and candy for Valentine's day. Shuddered whenever I passed a creepy baraang man with a young Khmer women/girl (the next day I heard that 80% of the kids who work on the riverfront have been sexually abused. . . although I'm not sure about the accuracy of that statistic, I don't doubt that it's a high percentage).
Eventually we returned to where my work friend, T., had parked his moto, and he kindly gave me a lift home. Now, it has already been established that I'm a huge dork, but as further evidence--I get a little giddy whenever I get a ride from a friend here because it makes me feel like I live here and am not just a tourist (although undoubtedly I am still an outsider and will always be so, even if I stayed for the rest of my life). All the same. Giddy. Of course, all of this giddiness totally means that I'm still a tourist.
Hanging out down by the riverside a couple nights following the boat cruise, I've decided that it might be too touristy for me. I did find a good Thai restuarant and a bar called the Cantina (many thanks to C. for introducing me to these places). Still, when I find myself surrounded by more Westerners than Khmers, I start to feel a little guilty-- as if I'm not doing enough soaking of the local culture. Combine that with recent trip to the delicious but deadly Lucky Burger (think McDonald's only with the addition of a fancy coffee stand and gelato place), I definitely find myself in need of breaking away, as much as possible, from the pervasive Western influence here.
I am hoping to take a break this weekend and travel to Battambang, a province in the Northwest, with a friend from work, but am not sure if I have the time . . . you know, laundry (which takes me forever, but it's better than being stinky and offending all my officemates!) and cleaning to be done (oh yeah, and that little thing called work). All the same, it would be nice to get away from the city and I hear Battambang is beautiful.
Additional Awesome People:
About a week ago I went on a short boating cruise down the Mekong with some people from work and their friends. We took off from the "dock" in front of the Royal Palace right after sunset, and although it was dark and I couldn't see much, the wind in my hair, good food, and good company provided a much needed release from the hectic work schedule that is my life. Sitting on the upper deck, I blocked out the hip hop that was being played for a 2 year old's birthday party on the lower deck (we got to cheer her on as she was supposed to blow out the candles--freaking adorable b/c her older sister blew them out before she got a chance) and concentrated on having non-work-related conversation.
After the boat ride we walked along the riverfront, through throngs of people who were getting an early start on the weekend, and past the vendors who were selling roses and candy for Valentine's day. Shuddered whenever I passed a creepy baraang man with a young Khmer women/girl (the next day I heard that 80% of the kids who work on the riverfront have been sexually abused. . . although I'm not sure about the accuracy of that statistic, I don't doubt that it's a high percentage).
Eventually we returned to where my work friend, T., had parked his moto, and he kindly gave me a lift home. Now, it has already been established that I'm a huge dork, but as further evidence--I get a little giddy whenever I get a ride from a friend here because it makes me feel like I live here and am not just a tourist (although undoubtedly I am still an outsider and will always be so, even if I stayed for the rest of my life). All the same. Giddy. Of course, all of this giddiness totally means that I'm still a tourist.
Hanging out down by the riverside a couple nights following the boat cruise, I've decided that it might be too touristy for me. I did find a good Thai restuarant and a bar called the Cantina (many thanks to C. for introducing me to these places). Still, when I find myself surrounded by more Westerners than Khmers, I start to feel a little guilty-- as if I'm not doing enough soaking of the local culture. Combine that with recent trip to the delicious but deadly Lucky Burger (think McDonald's only with the addition of a fancy coffee stand and gelato place), I definitely find myself in need of breaking away, as much as possible, from the pervasive Western influence here.
I am hoping to take a break this weekend and travel to Battambang, a province in the Northwest, with a friend from work, but am not sure if I have the time . . . you know, laundry (which takes me forever, but it's better than being stinky and offending all my officemates!) and cleaning to be done (oh yeah, and that little thing called work). All the same, it would be nice to get away from the city and I hear Battambang is beautiful.
Additional Awesome People:
- One of the drivers at my work. He always gives me the low-down on everything from education to medical care to corruption in Cambodia, his views on development work, and the effects of poverty on the majority of people in the country. If there is going to be a revolution, I think it should start with him. We also talk about Chinese movie stars and discuss why it is that we see so many Lexus' on the street (it's kind of disgusting).
- A work friend, A. ,whose background is in awareness theater among many other things. SO creative and empathetic and a much needed support in this crazy mixed up world.
Thursday, January 31, 2008
Svay Rieng to Phnom Penh Again
Well, I'm back from Svay Rieng and starting my fourth week at work. Note on Svay Rieng: The scenery - beautiful. The mosquitos - unforgiving. The workshops - unrelenting. On our way there and back we took a ferry over the Mekong and traveled through Neak Leoung, which is a city bombed by the U.S. military by mistake during the Khmer Rouge regime. What else can I say except that I learned a lot about Khmer culture, how NOT to interact with Khmer men (constructive criticism is never taken as constructive), and that I had an incredibly emotional experience in a shelter (almost broke down in tears multiple times, but the worst was when they kept saying they missed their mommies and that they didn't want us to go--we're trying to arrange a follow-up).
Things that I will not miss about Svay Rieng: (1) that damned rooster (2) shack karaoke (that is, karaoke in a tiny, tin roofed shack by a lake right outside my hotel room) until 5:30 in the morning, interrupted with a 1/2 hour break, and then starting all over again at 6 a.m. (3) creepy military guys who were also staying at the same hotel. . . seriously? stop staring at me.
I have finally moved into my apartment which is right near the Olympic Stadium, and took my first trip to the Olympic Market, which, may I say, was incredibly claustrophobic. I definitely got charged multiple SFFs, but as we all know--I'm not so good at the bargaining. On my way back from the market I ate at a restaurant less than a block away from my apartment that I suspect may double as a brothel at night. That, combined with the fact that a lot of the workers looked WAY underage, means that I most likely won't be going back.
My apartment is an area that is definitely outside the range of baraangs (Westerners), and therefore, places that cater to English speakers. The building owners, and woman who works at the vendor's stall downstairs keep talking to me as if I know what they're saying (which I should!). I do a lot of nodding and smiling and "min yul dtee"-ing ("I don't understand"-ing). At least I can communicate enough with the moto drivers to get to and from work (which is an accomplishment of which I am extremely proud).
Additional Awesome People:
p.s. I met a friend of Bill at the guesthouse!
Things that I will not miss about Svay Rieng: (1) that damned rooster (2) shack karaoke (that is, karaoke in a tiny, tin roofed shack by a lake right outside my hotel room) until 5:30 in the morning, interrupted with a 1/2 hour break, and then starting all over again at 6 a.m. (3) creepy military guys who were also staying at the same hotel. . . seriously? stop staring at me.
I have finally moved into my apartment which is right near the Olympic Stadium, and took my first trip to the Olympic Market, which, may I say, was incredibly claustrophobic. I definitely got charged multiple SFFs, but as we all know--I'm not so good at the bargaining. On my way back from the market I ate at a restaurant less than a block away from my apartment that I suspect may double as a brothel at night. That, combined with the fact that a lot of the workers looked WAY underage, means that I most likely won't be going back.
My apartment is an area that is definitely outside the range of baraangs (Westerners), and therefore, places that cater to English speakers. The building owners, and woman who works at the vendor's stall downstairs keep talking to me as if I know what they're saying (which I should!). I do a lot of nodding and smiling and "min yul dtee"-ing ("I don't understand"-ing). At least I can communicate enough with the moto drivers to get to and from work (which is an accomplishment of which I am extremely proud).
Additional Awesome People:
- The 77 year old man, A., who overshared about his gastrointestinal distress and is traveling by himself throughout Asia. Met him at the guesthouse before I checked out. He's already spent a month in Thailand and a month in Cambodia. This is to be followed by a month in Laos and Vietnam each and three months in China. If I'm ever in Granada, I have a place to stay.
- The keynote speaker at the workshop who answered his phone during his opening speech and took a 7 minute call over the microphone.
- Dragon Fruit - The outside is pink and it looks like a flower, the inside is white and has little black seeds (like a kiwi). Can't really describe the taste, but it's good and not too strong.
- Sour Soup - Self-explanatory. Similar is fermented lemon soup which is actually pretty chnaang chnaang (tasty tasty).
p.s. I met a friend of Bill at the guesthouse!
Monday, January 21, 2008
The Awesome and the Mighty
Hey folks, one last blog before I head out today to Svay Rieng (province/town bordering Vietnam) for 3 days of fun-filled workshops (no email for approximately 4 days). But you're not here to read about my work-- or are you? I suspect some of you might be waiting to hear about all of the fantastically awesome people that I'm meeting on my journey (or maybe not--despite all of my claims to greatness, I'm not actually a mind reader). Well, to appease you, let me tell you a little tale about the two guys who work at the guesthouse with whom I am completely and madly in love (not like that--get your minds out of the gutter you dirty rascals).
Let us, for the time being, call them S. and R. S. mainly works in the restaurant downstairs, is 25 (although he looks 20--everyone here looks younger than they are), and is beautiful. I am in love with S. simply because he is the sweetest person alive--ever. Every morning he politely asks me what I would like to eat for breakfast, all serious like, and when I invariably order french bread with cheese and coffee milk, he shoots me a smile that could light up Vegas in a blackout (apologies, that was a horrible metaphor, I will never do it again). He never hovers (unlike a certain individual, V.) and compliments me on my Khmer, which I guiltlessly practice on all of the workers at the guesthouse. Now. As I'm sure you have guessed, and as I have previously stated, my Khmer is terrible and frightening and awkward (really haven't been practicing as much as I should b/c I've been so busy). Lesson learned? Apparently the way to Rosie's heart is through a pretty smile, flattery, and shameless lies.
R. is also beautiful, enjoys drinking Coca Cola, and is either from Kampong Chaang or Kampong Cham (to my ear, they both sound exactly freaking alike when spoken). R.'s awesomeness lies in the fact that he too is sweet, serious, and polite. R. and I spent a magical evening on the upstairs balcony having the most awkward (and magnificent) language lesson of my life. This lesson basically began by pointing to stuff, saying it in our native language and then asking the other to say it in their native tongue--everything learned was promptly forgotten because I was too caught up in the utter coolness of it all. And then, all excited like, I scampered (yes, I've been known to scamper on occasion) down to my room to get my "Cambodian for Beginners" book (like the nerd I truly am), and we went through the first 2 lessons, letting eachother know when certain words or phrases were "same same." That was, by far, the best night I've had since I've been here.
And for all of you social work fans out there, the list of fantastically awesome people I've met since I've been here would not be complete without my supervisor and program advisor. My supervisor is the epitome of a social worker, all righteous indignation one minute and all diplomacy the next--but never stopping the fight for what she believes in. And what she believes in is the client. When I grow up, I want to be her. My program advisor is this really caring (yet secretly crafty) woman who was the first to start showing me the ropes at work. Incredibly maternal (get this, she's worried that I'm not eating enough), yet she still possesses the ability to strike fear in your heart. I am truly luck to be working with them both.
Honorable Mention for Awesomeness
The British woman I met at the guesthouse who is traveling throughout the region . . . she used to volunteer in Kazakstan, working in the field of disability.
Sigh. I am so grateful to be here.
PEACE
Let us, for the time being, call them S. and R. S. mainly works in the restaurant downstairs, is 25 (although he looks 20--everyone here looks younger than they are), and is beautiful. I am in love with S. simply because he is the sweetest person alive--ever. Every morning he politely asks me what I would like to eat for breakfast, all serious like, and when I invariably order french bread with cheese and coffee milk, he shoots me a smile that could light up Vegas in a blackout (apologies, that was a horrible metaphor, I will never do it again). He never hovers (unlike a certain individual, V.) and compliments me on my Khmer, which I guiltlessly practice on all of the workers at the guesthouse. Now. As I'm sure you have guessed, and as I have previously stated, my Khmer is terrible and frightening and awkward (really haven't been practicing as much as I should b/c I've been so busy). Lesson learned? Apparently the way to Rosie's heart is through a pretty smile, flattery, and shameless lies.
R. is also beautiful, enjoys drinking Coca Cola, and is either from Kampong Chaang or Kampong Cham (to my ear, they both sound exactly freaking alike when spoken). R.'s awesomeness lies in the fact that he too is sweet, serious, and polite. R. and I spent a magical evening on the upstairs balcony having the most awkward (and magnificent) language lesson of my life. This lesson basically began by pointing to stuff, saying it in our native language and then asking the other to say it in their native tongue--everything learned was promptly forgotten because I was too caught up in the utter coolness of it all. And then, all excited like, I scampered (yes, I've been known to scamper on occasion) down to my room to get my "Cambodian for Beginners" book (like the nerd I truly am), and we went through the first 2 lessons, letting eachother know when certain words or phrases were "same same." That was, by far, the best night I've had since I've been here.
And for all of you social work fans out there, the list of fantastically awesome people I've met since I've been here would not be complete without my supervisor and program advisor. My supervisor is the epitome of a social worker, all righteous indignation one minute and all diplomacy the next--but never stopping the fight for what she believes in. And what she believes in is the client. When I grow up, I want to be her. My program advisor is this really caring (yet secretly crafty) woman who was the first to start showing me the ropes at work. Incredibly maternal (get this, she's worried that I'm not eating enough), yet she still possesses the ability to strike fear in your heart. I am truly luck to be working with them both.
Honorable Mention for Awesomeness
The British woman I met at the guesthouse who is traveling throughout the region . . . she used to volunteer in Kazakstan, working in the field of disability.
Sigh. I am so grateful to be here.
PEACE
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
Life Update
Have almost definitely found an apartment. Get this, $300 for a newly renovated two floors, two bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a big ass wrap around balcony. Oh yeah, and they're going to furnish it for me. Plus I'm in the middle of a massive fruit market by the Olympic Stadium, with a bigger market just down the street. AND I get my very own security guard. (Granted, he's a 12 year old boy from the very nice Chinese Cambodian family upstairs and not technically a security guard, but he told me, with a completely straight face, that he would walk me up if I get in late at night.) AND I got some free fruit out of the deal. Awesome.
On a less awesome note, I went to visit my first shelter for trafficking and sexual abuse victims on Tuesday. While I knew not to expect anything comparable to that of shelters in developed nations (which aren't always superb either), I wasn't prepared for what I learned. This shelter, one of the better ones in the city, was very clean, with a beautiful garden, and good security (they almost didn't let us in even though we had an appointment, which I think is such a good thing). Having said that however, I was dismayed to learn that "counseling" and "therapy" in Cambodia actually refers most often to asking the clients whether they want to learn weaving or sewing. Sometimes this counseling will include telling clients what they should do with their lives . . . but there is ABSOLUTELY NO WORK done with clients regarding their trauma. This is a country-wide phenomenon in all shelters here. With more severe cases of mental illness, clients are sent to psychiatrists, where they receive meds, but nothing else (although this happens in the U.S. too, it still gets to me). There's a lot more that I wish I could say but cannot. All in all, the lesson learned is that even when you know something is going to be bad, it doesn't fully prepare you for the experience. I realize, now more than ever, how much work is needed.
DID YOU KNOW:
1) A lot of people here celebrate three new years? International, Chinese, and Cambodian (which is in April)
2) The lunch break here is 2 hours long (at my agency it's 1 1/2 hr). A lot of people go home, and some apparently bring cots to work so they can take a nap during the lunch break.
3) There are more Vietnamese, Chinese, and Thai than Khmer restaurants in Phnom Penh.
Sorry for the incredibly random post with complete disregard for grammar . . . but you'll take what you get . . . and you'll like it.
PEACE
rosie
On a less awesome note, I went to visit my first shelter for trafficking and sexual abuse victims on Tuesday. While I knew not to expect anything comparable to that of shelters in developed nations (which aren't always superb either), I wasn't prepared for what I learned. This shelter, one of the better ones in the city, was very clean, with a beautiful garden, and good security (they almost didn't let us in even though we had an appointment, which I think is such a good thing). Having said that however, I was dismayed to learn that "counseling" and "therapy" in Cambodia actually refers most often to asking the clients whether they want to learn weaving or sewing. Sometimes this counseling will include telling clients what they should do with their lives . . . but there is ABSOLUTELY NO WORK done with clients regarding their trauma. This is a country-wide phenomenon in all shelters here. With more severe cases of mental illness, clients are sent to psychiatrists, where they receive meds, but nothing else (although this happens in the U.S. too, it still gets to me). There's a lot more that I wish I could say but cannot. All in all, the lesson learned is that even when you know something is going to be bad, it doesn't fully prepare you for the experience. I realize, now more than ever, how much work is needed.
DID YOU KNOW:
1) A lot of people here celebrate three new years? International, Chinese, and Cambodian (which is in April)
2) The lunch break here is 2 hours long (at my agency it's 1 1/2 hr). A lot of people go home, and some apparently bring cots to work so they can take a nap during the lunch break.
3) There are more Vietnamese, Chinese, and Thai than Khmer restaurants in Phnom Penh.
Sorry for the incredibly random post with complete disregard for grammar . . . but you'll take what you get . . . and you'll like it.
PEACE
rosie
Saturday, January 12, 2008
My very first moto ride and other touristy things
I didn't fall off! (Or soil myself, as originally predicted). Moto rides are actually pretty awesome, although I do think I'll invest in a helmut given Cambodian drivers utter disregard for traffic lanes, on-coming vehicles, and their propensity for driving against traffic. And oh yeah, traffic signals don't mean much here either--whoever said red means stop and green means go was obviously not from Phnom Penh.
Yesterday I ventured out to the National Museum and the Royal Palace. Saw a lot of sculptures at the National Museum, mostly influenced by Hindu and Buddhist religion. Most of the sculptures were damaged however; thank you Khmer Rouge. The Royal Palace is gigantic, set within a walled off compound, well over a city block in size. I should have taken more time to explore it, but at that point in the day, I was sweating balls and ready to return to the guesthouse. While at the Palace, I did check out the big spots, including the throne room (massive) and the Silver Pagoda (the floor of which is laid entirely with silver tiles, although most are covered up) which houses an emerald Buddha. Poked around a bit more and found a small temple atop a little hill surrounded by a grove--guarded by monkeys and lions.
Also, two leads on apartments--one in my price range, but in not such a great area, one outside my price range, but in a good area. Considering some of the horror stories I heard on my first day at work, I might go for the good area option, since getting surgery in Bangkok will be more expensive and I am currently privileged to have full mobility in both arms.
Further update--Hooray for not getting malaria, japanese encephalitis, or dengue fever yet. Although when a kitten jumped on my lap at dinner, my mind immediately went to the fact that I neglected to get my rabies shot. Oh well, I just won't feed the monkeys.
LESSONS LEARNED aka STUPID FOREIGNER FEES (SFF)
1) When entering Cambodia, do not take the immigration officer up on his offer to get your visa extended immediately. It is expensive (gotta love corruption) and even though he says he'll drop your passport and visa off at the guesthouse--he won't know where it is. (Found out at work the next day that NGOs get visas for free).
2) When negotiating a price for a moto ride, make sure you know your Cambodian numbers. The driver started off with $1, and I, adept bargain hunter that I am, countered with "bpram bpoan rial", which to my delight he readily accepted. "Bpram bpoan rial" is actually equivalent to $1.25. I am the awesomest bargainer ever.
LESSONS CONFIRMED
1) Older Asian women do not like me. I blame the eyebrow ring and my poor grasp of the Khmer language.
That's all for now,
PEACE
P.S. Cultural imperialism anyone? Shorty got low low low low at the National Museum Coffee Shop.
Yesterday I ventured out to the National Museum and the Royal Palace. Saw a lot of sculptures at the National Museum, mostly influenced by Hindu and Buddhist religion. Most of the sculptures were damaged however; thank you Khmer Rouge. The Royal Palace is gigantic, set within a walled off compound, well over a city block in size. I should have taken more time to explore it, but at that point in the day, I was sweating balls and ready to return to the guesthouse. While at the Palace, I did check out the big spots, including the throne room (massive) and the Silver Pagoda (the floor of which is laid entirely with silver tiles, although most are covered up) which houses an emerald Buddha. Poked around a bit more and found a small temple atop a little hill surrounded by a grove--guarded by monkeys and lions.
Also, two leads on apartments--one in my price range, but in not such a great area, one outside my price range, but in a good area. Considering some of the horror stories I heard on my first day at work, I might go for the good area option, since getting surgery in Bangkok will be more expensive and I am currently privileged to have full mobility in both arms.
Further update--Hooray for not getting malaria, japanese encephalitis, or dengue fever yet. Although when a kitten jumped on my lap at dinner, my mind immediately went to the fact that I neglected to get my rabies shot. Oh well, I just won't feed the monkeys.
LESSONS LEARNED aka STUPID FOREIGNER FEES (SFF)
1) When entering Cambodia, do not take the immigration officer up on his offer to get your visa extended immediately. It is expensive (gotta love corruption) and even though he says he'll drop your passport and visa off at the guesthouse--he won't know where it is. (Found out at work the next day that NGOs get visas for free).
2) When negotiating a price for a moto ride, make sure you know your Cambodian numbers. The driver started off with $1, and I, adept bargain hunter that I am, countered with "bpram bpoan rial", which to my delight he readily accepted. "Bpram bpoan rial" is actually equivalent to $1.25. I am the awesomest bargainer ever.
LESSONS CONFIRMED
1) Older Asian women do not like me. I blame the eyebrow ring and my poor grasp of the Khmer language.
That's all for now,
PEACE
P.S. Cultural imperialism anyone? Shorty got low low low low at the National Museum Coffee Shop.
Wednesday, January 9, 2008
And I'm here
Alrighty. After 3 days of unexpected travel delays (thank you very much Amerian Airlines), including two nights in Los Angeles and one night in Taipei, I have finally arrived, checked into my guesthouse and successfully spent my first night in Phnom Penh. The Sunday Guesthouse is a fantastic place to stay, with internet, a restaurant, and a very helpful owner who speaks English (thank god). I had my first Cambodian meal, noodles with vegetables, and it was fantastic. So far, no elephant or monkey sightings (I know, I'm disappointed too), but I did see several palm trees.
The next challenge for old Rosie Lang is to find the office building where I will be working (which I just attempted unsuccessfully after walking around for a half an hour). Never fear, it will happen.
Anyway, just wanted to check in, and now I'm going to check out and find this danged practicum site. Wish me luck, I'll need it.
The next challenge for old Rosie Lang is to find the office building where I will be working (which I just attempted unsuccessfully after walking around for a half an hour). Never fear, it will happen.
Anyway, just wanted to check in, and now I'm going to check out and find this danged practicum site. Wish me luck, I'll need it.
Friday, January 4, 2008
And away I go
Anticipation. Nervousness. Excitement. Words that do not begin to describe my state of mind as I prepare to spend my last night at home. I fly out tomorrow evening, and yet I do not believe that the enormity of the situation has fully hit. There is the comprehension that, yes, in fact, I am leaving the country, and yes, I am going to a place where I do not necessarily speak the language. But 6 months? No, my friends, that little detail has yet to fully sink in.
I know the title of this blog is a little boring, but don't you fret, I'll have a full day of travel time to think of a new one (and to listen to each of my Khmer language CDs at least 10 times a piece)--but just in case I get title-block, any suggestions? Thank you to all of my family and friends, I could never have gotten to where I am today without you all. Sappy? Why yes I am. I love you (that's right, I said it) and will miss you terribly--terribly I say! Send out some good vibes to the universe and I'll see you soon.
PEACE
I know the title of this blog is a little boring, but don't you fret, I'll have a full day of travel time to think of a new one (and to listen to each of my Khmer language CDs at least 10 times a piece)--but just in case I get title-block, any suggestions? Thank you to all of my family and friends, I could never have gotten to where I am today without you all. Sappy? Why yes I am. I love you (that's right, I said it) and will miss you terribly--terribly I say! Send out some good vibes to the universe and I'll see you soon.
PEACE
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