My new gym and school!!

So yesterday, I signed up for the gym – yes, the posh gym at the Princess Hotel http://pprincess.com/leisure/Leisure.aspx?id=d6abc2b1-03a1-4eaa-9676-61e4192039c9 ! :o) Sam and I walked over at 5:45 in morning. She went swimming and I decided to lift weights. The sound of techno music filled the room (quite unique!) and a few people were walking around as spots for those working out. They’re all very nice – polite, respectful (always bowing, or “wai-ing,” which I will explain at a later time) and yes, always smiling. That is the Thai way – to always smile … my kind of place! :o) Walking back to my dorm at around 7:00 this morning was “somewhat peaceful” in terms of traffic. Because everyone drives on the left-hand side, it is difficult for westerners to cross, namely me, so I have to be careful yet assertive.

Being the minority, American in this case, is awesome, especially in class with my professors and classmates! I relish each moment of class time as I interact, exchange ideas and mainly listen to the political situations and views of my classmates from around the world. Our professors this week (Michael Fryer and Irene Santiago)are respectively from England and the Philippines. Michael is a trainer, consultant and professor in community development and conflict resolution and Irene is the former senior advisor on the peace process in the Philippines amongst other things. During our tea breaks and lunches, we talk about our personal lives – that which is dear to us – such as family, values, religion and tradition. Technically, this part of my day is not in the classroom, but the expression and exchange of ideas is an invaluable educational experience. In regard to language, the university students from Chula come over every morning to teach us Thai before we begin our “marathon day” of intense instruction! They are patient, eager, funny and yes, always smiling!!