In a lot of ways, I'm more excited about this trip than any in the past. Why?
-For the first time, I'm traveling with a family member. I've never had that opportunity in the past, so I'm really looking forward to it.
-I've always wanted to see this region for the rich culture and history it offers. Actually, I wanted to go here during my last trip but, for various reasons, decided on France.
-I've got friends. In Hong Kong, I'll get to see my friend Curtis, who studied at UT for a semester. In Hanoi, I get to reunite with Minh after 3 years, and it's going to be great to see her. In Bangkok, I'm hoping to meet my friend May who I practice French with. In Saigon, I'm hopefully going to meet with a free tour group for English speakers, run by college students. I've never had these kind of connections when I've traveled, and I know it will make for a more authentic experience.
-And of course - I've never traveled through a country where the culture is so pure and different from what I'm accustomed to. The closest I've come was when I traveled through Egypt, which was an amazing experience, but that was in a controlled environment.
While I realize I can't truly experience a culture in the short time that I'll be there, I think I'll get a good taste of it. It's unfortunate that we can't stay longer, but that gives incentive to come back. So, I'll start posting in my personal blog as the wheels start turning.
Asia, here I come!