Hello U-Thong

Elana, Jenny, and I were the last people at the resort as we waited for our school coordinators, Suthaporn (Nu) and Aroonsi (Jaeb) to pick us up. It took about an hour via the school’s van to bring us to U-Thong. Arriving in town was not what I expected. There were tons of things to go to within distance. Yah! I love how everything is within walking distances – fruit stalls, vegetable market, CJs (a convenience store), several pharmacies, and little shops here and there. BUT anything outside what I believe is a 5 block radius is difficult to get to (even by bike which they provided to us). Ugh…

I share the house with Elana here on the school site. We live in a two story house – living room, kitchen, bathroom and shower room (separate rooms) are downstairs, and the two bedrooms are upstairs. The other teacher, Jenny, lives in another house around the corner as she waits for the Chinese teacher to come live with her.

U-Thong Home

U-Thong School

The three of us appear to be the only foreigners in town. I knew there were chances we might be the only people who speak English, but it was still a shock. Then we learn that many if not most of the buildings all close by 6:30 P.M. We’re in trouble…Definitely wasn’t expecting that. That ‘honeymoon’ stage is definitely disappearing and quick.

However, I guess I can say I’m still lucky in comparison to other OEG participants. I live in a real nice accommodation (no large bugs, just geckos which eat the mosquitos for us!). My coordinators are sweet and try to help us despite the language barrier. I live on campus which is great since I don’t have to wake up too early. And I live close enough to Suphanburi where I can go to on weekends to visit close friends.

It’s just interesting to see such a different way of living from all the articles and stories I’ve heard about Thailand. This is definitely one way to get a glimpse into traditional Thai living.