Fun fact: Bangkok actually means ‘olive fruit’. The capital city of Thailand is refered to as Grung Tep by Thais.
We’ve had 3 formal Thai lessons so far, learning basic greetings:
Sawadee ka (for ladies)/kap (for gents) – Hi
Sa baa dii mai ka/kap – How are you?
Sa baa dii ka/kap – Good
Slowly but surely the group is getting the hang of the 5 Thai tones. Our teacher Pii Brad is excellent, and our classes are filled with laughter and smiles. In addition to language classes we’ve been going on many excursions: to Doi Suthep National Park to visit the Wat which overlooks all of Chiang Mai. To Chaing Mai University to play a pick-up game of ultimate frisbee with locals and other farangs (foreigner). Last night Heather, MikeĀ and Adam surprised us with a visit to a mall complex, where we enjoyed an hour of karaoke and a game of bowling. Other things we’ve been up to: some enjoyed a traditional Thai massage, others ate at Beetroot Stories an organic cafe with over 10 different combinations of beet and fruit juices, some of the guys have been trying a variety of energy drinks (with a lot more oomph than the American counterparts). Everyone has been having fun discovering the city of Chaing Mai, and has been working harmoniously together as a group. Tomorrow we have our last language class with Pii Brad and then move into our home stays in the evening. Lots of good things to come!
xxxĀ j