Next week, we leave for Southeast Asia, our new home. It feels surreal and so close. We’ve been preparing for awhile, and now we it’s almost here. We have a week left in America, and in addition to packing, organizing and hanging out with family & friends, I’ve been processing what exactly I’m most excited about living in Asia.
Here’s my top 5.
5. Cost of living
It’s no secret, living in Asia is quite affordable. From renting a house to eating out to massages, it can all be found very reasonably. I’m excited about being able to live somewhat comfortably for somewhat cheap.
4. Driving a scooter
Two wheels rule the road in Asia, and our new home is no exception. While in the States, we got our motorcycle certification, and we ready to ride in Southeast Asia! That was my first time driving anything on two wheels other than a bicycle, and while it was scary and intimidating, it was also exciting. I’m looking forward to mastering the new rules of the road, and hopefully getting my dream vehicle…a Vespa.
3. Food
Don’t get me wrong, I love burgers, pizza, fried chicken, and all that jazz, but I’m really looking forward to a new taste. New seasonings & spices, new flavors & combinations…it could be great or terrible, but either way, I’m in.
2. Pace of Life
Life in America is fast-paced and highly productive. Some days, it’s just hard to keep up. In fact, America is one of the only countries in the world that doesn’t require employees to take vacation days. The daily grind and the rat race are just a few analogies of the work day in America. I’m honestly excited to leave it all behind for awhile. To move into a culture that values people over task, and time moves a bit more slowly.
1. Learning a New Language
There’s a funny joke that goes “A person that speaks 3 language is trilingual, a person that speaks 2 is bilingual, and a person that speaks just 1 is American.” How true. I can’t wait to learn a brand new language. To become bilingual. It’s always been a dream of mine, and over the next 2 years, I hope to make it a reality.
I can’t believe it’s just days away that we are moving in our checked luggage only to our new Asian home. Stay tuned for the journey!
An American Mom in Asia 