Showing posts with label Tips & Quips. Show all posts

Teaching English in South Korea: FAQs Part II

It's that time of year again! Recruitment season! Emails! Oh my!

Lately I've been receiving emails from readers who are interested in teaching in South Korea and/or traveling abroad and I've been noticing a lot of similar questions. So, I decided to break them down into an FAQ: Part II to help out all you prospective expats out there!

Disclaimer: These are my experiences and opinions. While teaching in South Korea I worked for EPIK (English Program In Korea, South Korea's public school program). I do not have personal experience teaching at hagwons (private, after-school companies), but I can provide information from friends of mine who have. 

Question 1: How did you decide on South Korea, and teaching English abroad in general?


Moving to South Korea was my first experience living and teaching abroad. I initially chose South Korea because I already had a few friends there, but also because of the pay and benefits given to you by Korean schools compared to other countries. Plus, I’d always wanted to live and travel in Asia!

I'd first heard about teaching in South Korea through a friend of mine during my final semester of my BFA degree. She was leaving a month after I saw her to teach at a hagwon (private, after school program) outside of Seoul. She told me that her housing, medical insurance, and flight were all being paid for her by her school. She also told me that teaching in SOKO would afford her the opportunity to earn money WHILE traveling. I think I was sold after that.

Since I made the decision to teach, travel and live abroad I've made it to over 10 countries, 3 continents, and countless new cities and experiences. 

It's been the best decision of my life.

Interested in more details on the road to teaching ESL abroad? See my first FAQ: Here.

Hanok village, Seoul, South Korea


Question 2: What did you study in college? Did you have a plan for what you wanted to pursue after? Has that changed?

Oddly enough, I'm an artist! 

I received my BFA in drawing from Kendall College of Art & Design, Michigan, USA and I'm currently studying for my MA in Fine Art here in South Africa. I've exhibited in the United States, South Korea, and now here in South Africa. Art is and will always be a focus, but I'm always game for more. More, more, more…

My "life-path" is full of bends, winds, and curves. A straight line is a bit boring for me. I want to see and do it all. Being tied down to one career or label just doesn't appeal to me (Which is only something I've figured out about myself in the past few years.). 
I am and will always pursue art. But I also want to be a writer. A dance instructor. A researcher. A potter. A puppy-babysitter. (Is that a thing? Because I really hope it is.) I want to see and do it all. 

So yes, perhaps my goals after receiving my undergraduate degree have changed a bit. But that's the thing with travel. The more people you meet; the more people you see pursuing incredible passions, the more it makes you want to do, try, test, and experience it yourself. But, thankfully, teaching abroad allows you to work and save towards your other passions. 

I met an older, possibly 70+ year old British man in Thailand once who lived on an old WWII ship off the coast of an island in Greece. Him and his wife, who owned a little stationary shop, traveled around making parody videos of classic movies like Titanic for fun. 
Who knows? Maybe once day I'll want to do that. Ha!


I never thought I'd make it China. Yet, here I am!
Jinshanling, Great Wall, Beijing, China.

Gyeongbukgong Palace, Seoul, South Korea

Question 3: Did you find that the diet in South Korea led to any significant weight gain?


Personally? Well, yes. A bit.

Think about the Freshman 15: An enticing cocktail of new food, new freedoms, new social gatherings... new booze. The same can be said about expat-living in South Korea. You may or may not gain a little bit more than stories and experiences.
But, just like living at home, weight can be maintained with moderation and physical activity.

Typical Korean cuisine does rely heavily on carbohydrates and starches like rice, noodles, and potatoes. After a while I would ask the lunch ladies at my school to give me a half portion of rice, then I weened them down to no rice at all. It was a bit difficult for them to understand since rice is such a large part of Korean culture. But I asked them respectfully and sometimes would grab onto a love handle to make them giggle. 
There also tends to be high sodium levels in Korea cuisine that lend itself to tighter waistbands. But! Never fear. As more and more expats move to South Korea, more and more "Western" foods are appearing on grocery store shelves. But please, enjoy the food! Wherever you decide to travel and teach! Try. The. Local. FOOD. The shortest distance between two cultures is sharing food (and a beer!).  Don't drink? Swing on down to Question 9.

Hiking is also a large part of Korean culture. Grant it that the principle of your school may conclude every school-designated hiking trip with a ginormous meal and endless beer afterwards, but hey …at least you went hiking first!

Cass! Mekju! Beer!

A typical public school lunch. Oh how I miss it so!

Question 4: Did you learn a good amount of Korean while you were there and if so, was this facilitated by any language classes?


I did, I loved it, and boy was it helpful! EPIK’s 10-day orientation program provided a crash course into learning the Korean alphabet and basic phrases. After orientation EPIK provided a few after school Korean classes for English teachers that usually met weekly. 
There are also other opportunities outside of formal class. Language exchanges are very popular and are often run by Korean university students who want to improve their English. These language exchanges usually take place over dinner or coffee and you can meet a lot of new friends from all walks of life while improving your Korean.

The Korean alphabet is fairly easy to learn too! They say that you can learn the basics in 45 minutes, but it took me a bit longer. But even now, a few years later, I can still read it and speak a few conversational sentences. 

Learning to read Korean will be very helpful to you. Though most Korean restaurants and bus stations will have English there to assist you, some of the more traditional restaurants, shops, and stations do not. But never fear! If you can read Korean you find that some Korean words are actually English words written in English! For example: 치즈 is pronounced “Chi-jeuh”, AKA: cheese!

The early days of learning Hanguel.

Question 5: A friend of mine recently taught in South Korea and said that "having fun" during lessons was frowned upon. Is this true? I'd really like to teach children.


I am very shocked that your friend said that.

As mentioned previous, I taught in EPIK, South Korea's English public school program. I taught grades 3rd-6th and I'd estimate that 50% of my job was in fact creating games or activities that were outside the realm of strict blackboard teaching, AKA: fun!

We did everything from fashion shows to soccer games, relay races to animal-mask painting; anything to get the kids interested and having fun with English. Perhaps lesson rules are a bit stricter in some hagwons (after school programs), but with EPIK I had a lot of time designated to me for "games". Also, we were required to organize and teach Summer and Winter Camps while the school was on holiday. These camps were usually themed and structured with a few parts: Sports, Cooking, Art, and Golden Bell (a final quiz game). I had a lot of fun with my kiddos and I encourage you to do the same!

Rube Goldberg summer-camp creations.

Question 6: How much control do you have over the lesson plans?


If teaching with EPIK, you are required to follow along with a lesson book that is provided to you and a CDrom to match. These lessons are rough guidelines; mostly stories and grammar points that you can then supplement with games and activities. Honestly, this made lesson planning a breeze.
You do however have to follow general government curriculum and standards (EPIK). But I've been gone a few years now and I'm not sure what they are currently, but no worries that is your co-teachers job to inform you and keep things on track. 

In most ESL/EFL teaching positions in South Korea you, are paired with and work with one or many co-teachers. Some co-teachers are as new to this teaching style as you and you may have to work out the dynamic from scratch; which can definitely be to your benefit! Other teachers may prefer a 50-50 type of teaching style and some may prefer that you assist more rather than teach. It really all depends on your co-teachers. My co-teachers were extremely flexible and I'd often do most of the lesson-planning for the days that I taught with each one respectfully. We had a lot of fun together and I never felt like I was stepping on anyone's toes; or having mine stepped on for that matter!
Co-teaching is a bit of an art form and it can be a bit of a challenge; especially if you are used to ave your own classroom. but I really enjoyed it! I'm still friends with many of my co-workers to this day.

If you do decide to choose EPIK, the program itself hosts numerous co-teaching workshops and training opportunities to help further your co-teacher development and strategies.

Question 7: How did you get through your absolute worst days away from home?


Living away from home (or simply the familiar) can be a roller coaster. Highs and lows, pits and peaks. It's true I've had my fair share of days since leaving the US that have been difficult and enough to make me question my sanity. Not every day away is rose-tinted and smelling of flowers, sometimes it's a stinky durian left on the side of the road. But you get through it. 

Vent! Venting is healthy. Not complaining. Venting. And that's exactly what you should do. Don't bottle up your feelings alone. Vent. Global English teaching is booming at the moment. You will not have to go far to find a like-minded shoulder to cry on. This is especially true for larger cities in South Korea, Thailand, and Vietnam. Expat communities are large and more often than not experiencing the same feelings you are.

Write. I found that if I wrote about an experience, or just a general shit-day, that something as simple as finding an accurate and creative way to express what you were feeling was exactly what was needed. That’s actually how this blog started.

Rediscover. I found that rediscovering something you found exciting in your "Honeymoon Phase” is helpful in wiping the grime off those rose-tinted glasses. Go to that place, eat that meal, listen to that song; whatever it is an reflect back on who you were when you first arrived versus who you've become. This bit of in-context self reflection will no doubt be an optimistic reminder that this is in fact a learning experience. And with all learning experiences there are mistakes and pit-falls but, regardless, we are still better for having had them.

I compiled a list of Tips to Curb Expat Homesickness. You can check it out: Here

Question 8: Is it safe? I mean, North Korea and all..


South Korea is safe, yes. It's one of the safest countries I've ever traveled in and quite possibly the safest country I've ever lived, including the United States. But like every other country you travel or live in, including your own, you need to be smart. Be aware of your surroundings and remember, not everyone is on vacation or gap year like you. 

Of course, things happen. Things happen in every country. Just be smart. 

And as for North Korea... most South Koreans rarely give the "doom and gloom" lurking beyond the border a second thought in their daily lives. 

I did however visit the 38th parallel, DMZ area separating the North and South. That was an interesting experience. I highly suggest you organize a visit through the USO during your time in Korea. It is a moving, educational, and bewildering place. 


Visiting the DMZ, on the border between North and South Korea.

Question 9: Would you consider it reasonably safe as a young, single female to travel Southeast Asia alone and, did you ever travel alone or were you always with a group? 


Once again, yes but be smart. 

Using Korea as a jumping off point, I traveled to many countries in South East Asia solo. Japan, Cambodia, Vietnam, Malaysia… It was an incredible adventure. But, you do have to take precaution as a solo-woman traveler. Walk with purpose. Conceal your money. All the usual preventative measures to ensure a fun and safe route from point A to point B. 
Personally, I didn’t encounter anything that would make me not want to do the trip all over again. 

I thoroughly enjoy traveling alone. But if the road becomes a bit too lonely, you will no doubt find friends along the way. After my EPIK contract finished I embarked on a lengthy backpacking trip through South East Asia; most of which was done solo. Halfway through Vietnam in Hoi An I met an amazing Australian girl in a hostel, we became friends, and traveled the rest of the length to Ho Chin Min City together. Hostels are great like that. Hostels and backpackers can also help organize group tours or direct you to companies that do. There are also many expat-centered excursion companies in South Korea. These groups organize everything from zip lining to roof top pool parties. 

Woman crossing the street in Hoi An, Vietnam.

Question 10: I don't drink. Is that a problem?


No. 
South Korea does have a large drinking culture. Beer and soju (Korean rice alcohol) flow well into the night 7 days a week. But you can abstain. You will most likely be offered to drink at teacher dinners, but if you let your school know early on that you are not comfortable drinking alcohol, they will respect that.
It is however Korean custom to pour drinks for elders and superiors. If your principle pours you a drink (even if it’s a Coke), this is a sign of respect and you should return the favor. 

Question 11: Do you have any regrets/self-consciousness about where you are in your life right now? I come from a place where it seems everyone in their early to mid-20s are either getting married and/or pregnant, or working towards their PhDs. How do you reconcile this?


No. No regrets. The only regret that I’d have is if I had not taken the leap.
Don’t waste your time on social pressures or comparing your life choices to others! It's your life and if you want to travel...DO IT! Please, do it. Having regret is far worse than having a passport full of stamps. 
I just turned 28. I’m not married and I do not have children. But I’ve walked the Great Wall of China. I’ve climbed the Sydney Harbor Bridge. I drank local moonshine in a hut in the mountains of Northern Vietnam! Perhaps I will fulfill those other check boxes at a later date, perhaps not! But different strokes for different folks. Just don’t let social pressures thwart you from seeing or doing the things you want to see and do. Life’s too short man.
And besides, teaching contracts in South Korea are usually 1 year long and one year abroad is worth it. You never know where it'll take you. And if one year is enough, great! Then you can go back to your original life-path having a new outlook, perspectives, and experiences to enrich it. 

I don’t know anyone who has regretted going abroad. But I do know a fair share that regret not going.

My 27th birthday! Not too bad I'd say...!

Question 12: Where are you now? How has the expat lifestyle influenced your future plans?


As mentioned previous, I am currently in South Africa studying for my MA in Fine Art. I am still teaching ESL, but my classroom has moved from physical to online. 

The past 4-5 years have been an incredible and eye-opening experience. I’ve gained confidence, world perspective, and opportunity. This lifestyle is addicting and I can’t see myself giving it up any time soon.

Cape Town, South Africa. 2016.

If you have any questions not on this list, be sure to check out my first FAQ: Here

Still haven't found your question? Message me in the comment section below and I'll be sure to get back to you!

Explore on.




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Diving with Great White Sharks in Gansbaai, South Africa!

“Sharks have everything a scientist dreams of. They're beautiful―God, how beautiful they are! They're like an impossibly perfect piece of machinery. They're as graceful as any bird. 
They're as mysterious as any animal on earth...” 

For as long as I can remember I've had the upmost fascination and love for sharks. When I was younger, I was borderline obsessed. I used to draw sharks all over my school folders, my room was covered top to bottom in shark posters, stuffed animals, even a bedspread (!!!), and in my soccer days my nickname came to be "Shark". 
Trust me, I have the embroidered jacket to prove it... 

My friends and family took note (and perhaps a bit of concern, haha), and fostered this appreciation with books and TV specials. (My shark trivia is still pretty up to snuff.) So it's no surprise that I grew up with a longing to see these stunning animals in person. But, like many childhood dreams and aspirations, I thought it would never happen.

But, like any adventure in life, if you don't seek it out, chase it, and take a chance a dream will always be just that: a dream.

A beauty from our boat!
Gansbaai, South Africa. 2016.

Shark cage diving comes with stigma. Many companies out there that offer shark cage dives are purely tourism-based and have little concern for the environment, the sharks, or the people who may be affected by disturbing the sharks behavior. We know very little about sharks, and to disturb their habitat by chumming not only affects the shark's behavior but it also affects swimmers and the surfing community by driving them closer to shore and seeking out an easy meal of chum (fish parts and by-catch).
So, I had quite the ethical dilemma. Should I curb my ethical principles for a selfish look?

No. There had to be another way.

So, I set out on a research bonanza trying to weigh the pros and cons and find a company that held up to my ethical standards. That is why I was beyond head over heals in love with the practices and ethic-standards of Marine Dynamics.

Marine Dynamics does host tourists and provides them with a shark diving experience, but that is not all they do. The team over at Marine Dynamics is greatly composed of researchers and environmental volunteers. The researchers use tagging methods to track the sharks in the area to better understand and support their ecosystem and behaviors.  The acoustic tagging and tracking methods used, in cooperation with boat based observational data, help build a better understanding of great white shark behavior with crucial scientific data being gathered and published. This study also helps in the understanding of the shark's predatory interactions and behaviors, aiming to not only make the ocean safer for sharks but also for us land-dwelling humans. This research is made readily available to the "tourists" on board and at home via their website and through the Dyer Island Trust. At Marine Dynamics, education comes first and the "thrill" comes second.

Big, Beautiful. Curious. Powerful. (Perhaps a Great White Shark is my spirit animal?!)

Our day started out EARLY. My parents and I had an unexpected change of plans when it came to our accommodation near Gansbaai, so we ended up having to leave from Cape Town at around... 3:00am in order to make the briefing. But. I was awake and ready by 10:00pm! HA! No time to sleep when dreams are coming true!
Prior to heading out onto the boat and into the chilly seas of Southern Africa, we were treated to an excellent breakfast (though, I recommend NOT eating beforehand if you are prone to seasickness!) and a short rundown of what to expect on the boat as well as an educational brief about the area and the animals themselves.

Once we got on the boat the adrenaline hit. The boat took off into the open ocean; waves and sea spray battered the boat in a rhythm that was on pace with the excitable beat of my heart. This was happening. This was actually happening.

The boat stopped. We squeezed into our wetsuits. We were the first group to jump into the cage! Eeeek!

My Dad managed to get one good photo while inside the cage! YES!

It wasn't long until we saw our first shark.

Our visibility was estimated at about 1 meter so to watch her emerge from the deep, cyan coloured water was an experience that I will take with me forever. She was stunning, and powerful! With one push of her tail she was gone in an instant. But then another one appeared...and another...and another! I'm not sure how long we were down being tossed around by the waves in the cage, but we had constant activity. Constant, CLOSE, stunning activity.



My face after being inside the cage. Happy tears!

Like I mentioned prior, Marine Dynamics puts conservation first. If it is harmful to the animal or the people involved, they do not do it. That rule applies to chumming. Many other shark-diving excursions I've seen pour buckets of blood, fish parts, and by-catch into the surrounding waters to attract sharks. This not only causes the sharks to act unpredictable but it also reinforces the notion that when the sharks see a foreigner-human, there will be blood [food].

In contrast to this practice Marine Dynamics uses a seal dummy (a wooden plank which from below the surface looks like a lone seal), fish oils, and fish heads on a line which are pulled away so the sharks are not "fed". Just another reason in the long list of reasons to choose Marine Dynamics if you happen to find yourself seeking out a shark-cage dive.

A HUGE, curious stingray came up to say, "HI!" as well. She was close to the size of my kitchen table!

'om nom nomm' -a biggin' munching on the seal dummy

Sadly, an astronomical 100 million (increasing over the years from 70 million) sharks are killed each year by humans to meet the demand of the shark fin soup industry and in order to supply faux cancer "cures" (FYI, sharks get cancer. See HERE). This number spans almost every species of shark, including those we know little about.
Shark finning is a barbaric process. Sharks are caught, drug up onto boats, and their fins (dorsal, pectoral, and caudal) are cut off. Still alive, the sharks are then tossed back into the ocean where they either drown or are eaten alive by other fish.

These animals are incredible. Beautiful. And yes, due to overly-hyped gore in popular culture they get a bad wrap. And due to this overly bad wrap, they are now facing extinction.
Shark cage diving has also gotten a bad wrap in recent years. And in recent weeks (I'm sure you've all seen this viral video by now: HERE). But videos such as this are not common and they are a result of poor management and practices. Sharks are wild, unpredictable animals and need to be treated as such.

If you plan on viewing these beauties in the wild, please seek out a research team that has its roots in study and conservation. Not just some guy with a boat. Please, DO YOUR RESEARCH. Choose a team that is the best fit ethically and environmentally. You and your experience will be better for it!

This was an incredible opportunity. I'm not sure where this ranks on my Bucket List, but I'm guessing somewhere around the Top 5. I'm also planning on investigating volunteering myself after I complete graduate school. I'm sure that experience will rank in the Top 2.

Brrrrrr! left to right: Chris, Me, my Mom, and my Dad

Interested in Marine Dynamics shark-cage diving? Click HERE
Interested in shark conservation and how you can help? Step one: Educate. 


Here are a list of resources to help you get started:
  • - The Dyer Island Conservation Trust: http://www.dict.org.za/
  • - Stop Shark Finning: http://www.stopsharkfinning.net/
  • - Louis Psihoyos' (Academy Award winning director of The Cove) latest project: http://racingextinction.com/

Explore on! 



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(My Personal) Top Eleven Party Destinations

       
     Half the fun of traveling to a new destination is checking out the party scene. Every city, every country, every culture has a different way of doing it up big. That being said, here are my top eleven party destinations that I have had the pleasure of making bad decisions in. 
     Drinking, dancing, local as well as backpacker atmospheres mix together, just like that wicked cocktail you had at that no-name bar, in these nightlife havens choices. To narrow it down to 10 would be silly. There's just too much fun out there to be had!
And, what's a party without cranking the volume up to eleven?

11) Naha City, Okinawa, Japan
Okinawa street art

     With its island vibes and tech-charm that is synonymous with Japan, Okinawa is the perfect blend of laid back and upright. At first I was unsure of what to think of Okinawa. I loved mainland Japan and was a bit thrown off by the casual nature of the island and US military presence. But, that feeling quickly faded once I posted up at the local noodle bar and traded quips with my hostel mates, fellow travelers, and noodle chef behind the counter. 

     Okinawa is a holiday destination for many Japanese mainlanders and can obviously be seen as such. It's beautiful! And as I said before, far more casual than its mainland counterpart. Think Hawaii meets Japan. Colorful, traditional, Japanese arcades open up to American style bars and diners lining the alleyways and streets of central Naha City. Walk about, explore the numerous arcades, sneak off into alleys plastered with band posters; that's where the best hole-in-the-wall drinking holes are. And, may I suggest popping into a convenience store in between bars and purchasing yourself a sake "juice" box? 

      Be advised though if you find Naha City too tame for your party-thirst, stay away from the islands. These beautiful, yet sleepy, islands peppering the sea around Okinawa are virtual dead zones off-season. Unless you are part of a diving group, you'll be drinking alone.

     Okinawa is definitely tame compared to the other cities on my list, but this family-friendly option is full of surprises.

Cash: $$$ Okinawa, though a far different vibe from mainland Japan, is still Japan! Expect higher prices for drinks, food, and accommodation. 

Quick Tip: Sample the snake sake (habu sake or snake wine) and if you're lucky, a snake beer and curry infused with habu! Nothing like a little dose of snake toxin to get the party started...



10) Cairns, Australia
TABLE TOP DANCING IS UNDERTAKEN AT YOUR OWN RISK.

     Come for the Great Barrier Reef and koalas, stay for the classic Aussie-madness... 
      This tourist town runs rampant with partying locals and hostel workers at night, as long as you know where to go. Shops close early in Cairns as tourists head back to their accommodations and the city centre looks deserted from the surface. But that's because everyone is already at the bar!

     Steer clear of the waterfront, where mainly higher-priced restaurants have staked their claim, and seek out the dingy pubs and backpacker hangouts. Aussie locals definitely live up to their partying reputation in this city. There will be no shortages of table dancing or late-night stagger fests in this picturesque, seaside town.

Cash: $$$$ A bit more backpacker friendly when it comes to drinks compared to Sydney, so don't worry too-too much.

Quick Tip:  Ready to dance on top of tables? Head to The Woolshed. Enjoy, and don't say we didn't warn you~




9) Michigan, USA
Friends and Founders. 

      Michigan? Really? (some of you may be saying)  Well! My home state of Michigan not only makes the list because of its friendliness and welcoming party atmosphere, but also because of its beer. My dear Michigan, with over 120 microbreweries to its name, ranks 5th overall in the US. Drink up, dress down, and play on with a myriad of breweries dotting almost every Michigan travel destination.

      Like your beer mobile (Safe and legal, of course!)? Then take a spin on the Great Lakes Pedal Pub. This "green" pub is operated by a 15-person bike pedals its way around the various bars and pubs of the Grand Rapids City centre. What's better than having your stout and biking it off too?

Cash: $$$ Them microbrews aint cheap!

Quick Tip: Enjoy the festivals! There's no better way to experience the tastes and brews of Michigan than a summer festival. Festivals such as Arts, Beats, & Eats (metro Detroit area), Founders Fest (Grand Rapids), and ArtPrize (Grand Rapids) are all great ways to take in the party of Pure Michigan.



8) Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Our view from the "Helicopter Bar" in downtown Ho Chi Minh City.


           You can live the high-life for pennies to the dollar in this exploding metropolis. South East Asia is known for being a beautiful, and cheap, travel spot for young travelers and expats alike. And I'd go as far to say that, bang-for-buck, Ho Chi Minh tops the list.

           Enjoy the "fresh beer", also known as bia hoi, by day (Hey, it's low in alcohol! Don't judge!) and swank it up at the EON Heli Bar, located on the 51st floor of the Bitexco Financial Tower, by night. I'm usually not one for over the top and elitist atmospheres and scenes; usually because my pocketbook can't support such audaciousness. But, Ho Chi Minh allowed me to live a slice of the high life (literally) without waking up the next morning with a bill worse than my hangover.

Cash: $ Cheap. So cheap.

Quick Tip: Stay safe! Ho Chi Minh has a high theft rate so it's best to leave your bag or purse locked away in your hostel rather than take it out with you. I suggest using a small wristlet or money clip to keep your funds on hand.




7) Hong Kong, Hong Kong 
Enjoying a brew in an English pub in Hong Kong

     With all of its distinct districts and cultural diversity, you will never be at a loss for something new. Hong Kong can be a tad overwhelming with its crowds, compact city streets, and niche cultures. But don't let that stop you. Treat it like Vegas or NYC and let it envelop you. 

     The Central District of Hong Kong has these ingenious things called "travelators". Picture the escalator at your local mall, but place it outside and have it connecting you to different levels of quirky bars and little restaurants bathed in neon. You can hop on and off the travelators to martini bars, British pubs, and high end shops. 

     Hong Kong is generally pretty pricey. But there are exceptions to this. Competition is high so look out for drink specials and happy hour deals. Drinks can range from $5 USD to $14 depending on your drink of choice.

Cash: $$$$ Hong Kong is made for high rollers. Bring your wallet.

Quick Tip: Hong Kong is like the New York City of Asia; every borough has a different feel and a different vibe. Don't stick to just one area. move around! Explore!



6) New Orleans, USA
The infamous Rue...

            New Orleans, Louisiana lives up to its reputation. It's mad. Plain and simple. I was on Bourbon Street, on a Tuesday afternoon, which also happened to be Christmas Day... and the streets were still alive with people, music, and Mardis Gras flair! Oh, and a woman mooning the streets below from her second story window...

     NOLA is famous and world renowned for its music scene. Take advantage of it! Actually, it's very difficult not to. Almost every bar, restaurant, or street corner has its own quartet or soloist. Whether it's Jazz, Cajun, Blues, or if you happen to take the mic and spit out some fabulous karaoke; leave your inhibitions at the door. Dance! Sing! Do it all! New Orleans is there for you to do so.

    When in town I highly suggest checking out Mulate's. It's a bit touristy, yes. But! It's also a great way to break yourself in to some Cajun culture. Watch the locals spin their partners around the dance floor and do your best to join in on the Cajun Two-Step.

Cash: $$$ As an infamous party stop, expect tourist prices.

Quick Tip:  New Orleans is like Vegas: It never closes. Therefore, don't worry about going during Mardi Gras or high season. The party will still be there waiting for you to show up!


5) Bangkok, Thailand


     This place... can get you into trouble. 

Swanky roof top bars over-looking the city, grungy backpacker hangouts, and ladyboy shows: Bangkok has it all; with little to no rules. (Well, maybe some rules... I don't think anyone wants to wind up in a Thai prison now do we?)

     Khaosan Road is the beating heart of Bangkok's backpacker scene. It's vibrant, colorful, delicious, and wide awake most hours of the day and night. This area not only has a booming nightlife, but it also caters to the backpacker budget. Here, you can make bad decisions on a budget! Yay! Just please...stay away from the all-in-one tattoo parlor-currency exchange-thai massage salon. Your future self will thank you for not having to explain where that questionable lower-back, butterfly tattoo came from...

Cash: $$ 

Quick Tip: If you happen to meet an older British man, named Robbie, in cut-off jean shorts, who bears a striking resemblance to Rod Stewart...listen to him and follow his nightlife suggestions. You won't be disappointed.



4) Chicago, USA



     Have you ever spent St. Patrick's Day in Chicago? No? Well, add that your Party Bucket List. Please? It's such a great time! (Psssttt...you don't even have to be Irish!)

     Aside from the season of green, Chicago has everything to offer in terms of party year 'round. And in my personal opinion, beats New York City by a mile. Brew pubs, electronic house clubs, jazz dens, drag shows...it has it all. Bring Stefon away from Weekend Update in NYC and have him test out the Windy City. There's no doubt the ultimate club kid will be converted.

      Be aware though! Clubbing in Chicago can get pricey quick! Even if you "know the DJ", you're looking to scrape by with a $14 Red Bull & vodka at any number of Chicago's dance clubs. Ouch!

Cash: $$$$  Don't look at your bank statement the next morning.  Just.  Don't.

Quick Tip: Take the train in from the suburbs and save money on parking, hotels, ...and drinks. Did you know you can legally drink on the metro commuter train going to and from downtown? Well, you can! (Except on St. Patrick's Day... sorry!)



3) Siem Reap, Cambodia

                    Explore the temples by day and the expat bars by night. Siem Reap is the no holds barred kind of night life that makes you wake up the next day with not only a hangover, but a free t-shirt from the bucket-sized cocktail you drank on a dare.

     The area of Pub Street lives up to its name and is within walking distance from many, if not all, of the hotels and hostels surrounding the area. Pub Street is full of eateries, fish spas, souvenir shops, art stalls, and everything else. The most notable bars on the Pub Street local would be the infamous Angkor What? and Temple Bar.  Enjoy, indulge, dance and play ...just don't bank on it being an authentic Khmer experience with a name like "Pub Street"...

Cash: $ Like most destinations in South East Asia, a little bit of cash goes a long way.

Quick Tip: Don't worry about getting all dressed up for a night on the town. The Siem Reap party scene is incredibly casual and full of laid back, most likely sweaty, backpackers. Relax, be yourself, and leave the makeup back at your hostel.



2) Sydney, Australia 

                     Definitely the priciest destination on my list, Sydney offers classy, old world, European charm with its fine selection of pubs in an area known as the The Rocks as well as the pumping, gritty, nightlife found in Kings Cross.

Our first night in Sydney we inadvertently stumbled into the oldest pub in the city. Upon entering and sneaking up to the bar, we coincidentally met whom I assumed to be the oldest man in the pub. He was stoic, dressed in a green tweed suit complete with wool sweater vest, and had the sweetest demeanor you could imagine. He knew right away we "weren't from around here" on account of this bar seemingly being a sort of unspoken, locals-only hangout. He took it upon himself to give us the best tour anyone could ask for on the backside of a coaster: All the pubs to hit up in Sydney. Gotta love it! And yes, we followed the coaster to our delight~

      Quick tip! Sydney is a beautiful city, with beautiful people. Take that into account when heading out on the town. Many places have a dress code so dress to impress!

Cash: $$$$$ Oi! This place is pricey!

Quick Tip: Walk! Taxicabs are expensive as hell in Sydney and it is best to avoid them when you can! The nightlife districts in Sydney are fairly close and walkable from one another. No worries, mate!



1) Seoul, South Korea

Op, Op, Opa Hongdae Style! ~graffiti in Hongdae, Seoul

      Never have I partied harder. Never. Korea is a dreamland bubble. And at the center of this dreamland is a cosmopolitain city called Seoul. And inside Seoul, if you are brave enough to venture, is a party utopia known as Hongdae. A hefty concoction of soju and neon lures you in with its individualistic street style and endless choices of weird and whimsical theme bars, hofs, restaurants, and clubs. This city will have a hold on you the moment you step off the KTX and you'll be brushing the glitter off your coat on the way home before you realized what happened.

     Start off or end the night with a visit to Hongdae Park. Don't let the term "park" dissuade you this park is barely family friendly come night; hosting anything from rap battles to pop-up kickboxing fights.

Cash: $$$ Save money by heading to a convenience store (conveniently located EVERYWHERE in Korea) and enjoy the fine taste of Cass from a can.

Quick Tip: Prepare yourself. You very well be up all night and not eve
n realize it as you stumble out of the norebong (karaoke room) at 8AM still singing Don't Stop Believing. Seoul will do that to you.


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     Now,  I'm not advocating excessive or irresponsible drinking. A messy evening can ruin the night or even a trip for that matter! Be smart and have fun. And if drinking is not for you, that's cool too! Do you. There are plenty of things to do in these top party destinations without a drink in hand. (People watching probably tops the list...)


     Don't see your favorite party destination here? Tell me in the comments below what's great about your party-place. I'd love to know! And, more than likely, love to visit!


Party on Wayne, Party on Garth...

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Tips To Curb Expat Homesickness




     Living outside of the country you grew up in, whether it's for work, long-term travel, volunteering, military spouses, etc. can be one of the most rewarding and exciting periods of one's life. Every day is an adventure for an expat. Even simple errands like going to the grocery store can turn adventurous. 

     But that doesn't mean that every day is a "vacation". Though you may be "living the dream" to some, living abroad can come with a wave of unbridled homesickness. One, that at times, can be somewhat debilitating. Dealing with these feelings can be complicated. Emotions are often heightened while living abroad and amplified by being away from the friends and family you've left back "home". 

"We are torn between a nostalgia for the familiar and the urge
for the foreign and strange."
-Carson McCullers

     Now. This doesn't mean you should turn it all in and pack up your bags. This will pass!  Enjoy your time abroad while you are here. Don't let homesickness get the best of you. Here are a few tips I put together to help you do just that!


1. Go Explore!
     Obviously if you've found yourself in the expat-situation, you are no stranger to exploring. But, once the "honeymoon phase" of living in a new country has worn off... it doesn't hurt to remind yourself how big of an adventure you're on. 

  • Buy a bike! This was one of the best decisions I made when living in South Korea. By bike you're able to find all the hidden gems and nooks and crannies you might miss while taking the bus every day. There's nothing more like a breath of fresh air and freedom than riding a bike through a foreign place. 
  • Take a group tour! Sure, sometimes these can be annoying... but group tours are a great way to find something you never knew you were looking for. 
  • Try to do something new everyday. Drum lessons? Sure!  Karaoke contest? Sure!  Salsa dancing? Sure! Explore what makes the culture, you happen to find yourself in, unique. Keep up the "vacation" vibes and challenge yourself to learn something new.





2. Get "Adopted".
     Mix with the locals. Please! Not only does this 8,000% add to your abroad experience, but it will also help curb your homesickness.  Expat friends are some of the best you will ever make, but, don't shy away from breaking the language barrier and gaining local-friendships. 

     I was incredibly lucky to have my "Korean family" while living in Daejeon. The Bak family is one of the sweetest and most genuine group of people I've had to pleasure of meeting. They made my time in SOKO warm, loving, and ...full!  I can't even being to describe how much food I was given, haha. It was like going over a grandmother's house. Sure, she didn't speak the same language as me... but that honestly didn't matter. At all.

My Korean mother 'Puppy'


3. Take a Break From the Online-World. 
     I know this may come as a shock and undoubtedly an oxy-moron coming from someone who makes a partial living off of social networking. But. Sometimes you just need to step away...

     Skype and Facebook are obviously invaluable resources for expat families and friends. Sharing photos and stories keeps everyone connected. But sometimes it can make you feel more split rather than whole. Try a day or maybe a week without and see if it makes a difference!
    


4. Plan a Trip With a Friend From Home.
     Prepare to explore your old backyard! Plan (a slightly different version of) a 'staycation'.  Planning your trip home will help you lose sight of homesickness, discover new things about your home country, and create helpful nostalgia.  All this, and you'll go back home with a list FULL of things to do and revisit.  It's a win-win-win! Planning these moments is an excellent way to look forward to going back rather than looking back and missing.

Vacationing in USA!


5. At-Home Fusion Food.
     I love fusion food! I think it's a creative way to share cultures. Why not take a crack at it yourself?

     Take a favorite recipe from back home and attempt to recreate it with the local ingredients. I know, I know... you're probably doing this already without even realizing it. But yes, that's the thing! You aren't even realizing it.  Take a moment to sit down, plan, shop, and prepare; keeping in mind you are knowingly making a "fusion food" dish.  Trust me, it's fun!

     Sure, they may not have the fixings for me to make authentic quesadillas here in South Africa. So, why not make "South African Quesadillas"? Not only are you making something creative and getting your brain out of the homesick-mindset, but when you come back to your non-expat home... you'll also have a little taste of your new country to bring back with you.

My attempt at 'Vegan Pulled-"Pork' Sliders': Korean trumpet mushrooms substituted the pork, topped with cabbage slaw and sprouts. Not bad, but fun!



6. Write.
     They say that writing is cathartic. This is very true. 

"Journaling allows you to dialogue with parts of your psyche that are frozen in time.", states Laurie Nadal, PHD and author of Zen and the Art of Windsurfing. "It allows you to tap into deeper reserves of creativity and problem-solving. By keeping a journal, you can get a flash of knowledge and awareness that you haven't seen before."

     You don't have to consider yourself a "great writer" to write. Keep a journal! Record all the funny, frustrating, and incredible things that happen to you along the expat-way.  (Don't forget the silly details too! It'll be great to go back and re-visit those some day.) 
     This blog started off as a personal journal for me to share and vent stories to friends and family back home, or simply myself.  Writing has definitely gotten me through some bouts with homesickness.


7. Represent!
     It may sound silly... but you know how they say, "Don't dress for the job you have, dress for the job you want."? Well, I'd say the same applies to donning those personal touches from home. Wear it, feel it.

     Bust out that college sweatshirt you swore you'd only wear on Sunday afternoons cleaning the apartment. Sport your home team jersey while attending sporting events abroad (Unless there's a bitter rivalry...then, yah maybe not). Rock that kitschy tourist bracelet you got way back when on that one trip. You know... that trip. 

     Little details like this make being away feel a little bit more like home. And, they make for great conversation pieces! The world is small, you never know who has been where. Maybe you'll run into to someone in Vietnam who happens to know where 'Shelby-Town, USA' is! 

'Smitten with The Mitten', and this necklace!


7. Don't Go It Alone.
     Chances are, you are not the only one around having these feelings.  Like I've said before, expat friends are some of the best you'll ever find. Open-minded, curious, insane amounts of fun and great listeners. Reach out to them. You're both in this together; you're both Lost In Translation.  



     As mentioned previous, emotions and anxiety tend to run at a higher degree when living away. This can cause homesickness, but, there can also be an upside to this phenomena. You may find yourself more likely to "open up", vent, and reveal things to people you would most likely keep bottled up. 



8. Think About the Journey.
     It wasn't an easy road getting to where you are now. Revel in that. Think about the journey that got you from Point A to Expat-Point B. Think about all of the small things that had to be accomplished to lead up to this point.  

     Maybe you're fulfilling a life-long dream. Checking off a Bucket List. Working your way up your career ladder. Chasing love. Helping others. Whatever you're doing, you are doing a pretty cool thing! Never forget that. And even if things don't work out, you took a chance. And that's the most important thing.




9. Don't Feel Guilty Or Selfish.
     You're living the dream. Adventures abound. What do you have to complain about?! -Please don't take this route. Sure you may have nothing to "complain" about, but living abroad with homesickness is a very real, multi-layered, and complicated issue. 

     These feelings are healthy! And the worst thing that these feelings could mean is that you have it pretty good back wherever you came from. Don't feel selfish about feeling this way. You're going to have those 'I just want to go home!'-moments. Trust me. I've been there. More times than I'd like to admit, I fear. But breathe, vent, write, do what you gotta do; trust me, it will pass. And you'll be back in the 'honeymoon phase'.




More advice & tips? We could always use more!
Comment below!


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