Have you read this book? Since your going to Thailand, and are in the buisness that your in, You may want to read the book Pat Pong Sisters by Clare Odzer.
Not all men... I must say, that not all of us american men just stand on the edge of the dance floor ogling women and getting more and more drunk and horny. some of us (particularly me) like to get out there and get down...but the women always run for fear of being molested. can't a guy just have fun dancing with other girls, or do they always have to think it's about sex? sheesh!
all the hoopla yeah, arabs always want to impress and amaze their guests, even if it isn't at their home. That's probably why there was so much effort put into the presentation as opposed to the actual content. It's just something i've grown used to. They are respected more by how good of a host they are rather than their insight.
I'm amazed that you're able to manage 'calm and balance' after living in KTM -- I've found myself growing increasingly impatient and tense. Riding a bicycle in traffic doesn't help and I've discovered a road rage I never knew I had in me (compounded by the fact that everybody else just laughs when they nearly - or do - crash into somebody else in the road). Any advice for achieving this balance?
Welcome back - if you're still looking for somebody to go with to the dance clubs you're researching, I've been intrigued since Day 1 but still haven't actually stepped into any. I lost my old phone -- new number is 9803692110. Get in touch!
Please igonre Nepali politics If you could ignore the messy nepali politics.. you would enjoy your visit in Nepal... nepali people are not bad, leaders make them look stupid so hate nepali leaders,... love the country and people....
B. Raj
http://www.birendra.ws/
http://www.nepalsathi.ws/braj/01intro2edu/BRGiriCV.html
Thank you for the information I plan to buy a plane ticket to Kathamandu this June, but after reading your story, I think I will have to change my mind about the trip. I don't want to walk to the airport anyway. Things don't seem to improve than last year.
All the documentaries I've ever watched on "underground" or even somewhat mainstream sex workers in the developing world have put a huge emphasis on the number of American, British and Australian men who keep them afloat, often including sexual offenders who won't be prosecuted there for things they've served time for in their home countries. So depressing. As always, such an interesting blog!
Your blog is inspirational! Only through fire is gold made pure! I love your blog...and just wanted to say how well you write...I am planning to visit Nepal in April 2008... I already know my trip will be more meaningful as a result of all I have read! Thank you! I send you prayers for good health...anita
You are blessed this is why going to a 3rd world country is such a great experience. You never know how good you have it till you don't have it anymore.
"Harmless flirtation" I knew that tea invite was gonna turn out sketchy! It's not just the developing world - I had a renewed appreciation for Americans' learned shame in the UK when a 18yo boy kept asking me to "make a man" out of him. And I mean in front of all his friends and all the way up the high street to my flat. Telling men you're married doesn't even seem to help so good luck with the boyfriend deterrent. :D Also, I completely agree, that to appreciate your country most people have to leave it. Just to appreciate the freedom we have to criticize! Which I don't publicly do anyway.
Great entry! As far as your coping = Good for you! Also, your entries help paint such vivid pictures of the nuances of cultural/geographical differences, it's really interesting to read.
i didn't mean they pray "to" statues, but the statues are a representation of the god to which they are praying. poor choice of words, i admit.
yes, they don't tell you the real sides of living in the developing world at the pre-departure orientation. but despite all of the challenges, it's worth it. good luck!
Al
non-member comment
re: Not all men
I totally agree, Dylan.