On Thursday, January 23, we had our final free day in Bangkok, Thailand. Each person had the opportunity to explore the city or rest at the hotel in order to prepare for the long journey home. For those who decided to explore, many wound up at the MBK Center, which housed local vendors, delicious Thai food, and offered tuk-tuk rides. Some groups were also able to find hidden vendors and streets by wandering the city.
The vendors primarily sold knock-off brands and some featured local artists; this was the day that many students were able to purchase designer items at a largely discounted cost as well as last minute mementos from Bangkok. For those who decided to take a personal day, many laid by the pool and soaked up the beautiful Bangkok cityscape while preparing for the travel day ahead.
That night, we had our final group meal of the trip. Over the course of the trip and Bangkok in particular, we have eaten an overwhelming amount of delicious and authentic Asian cuisine, ranging from Banh Mi to Pad Thai and Tom Yung Goong. That being said, our group was in need of a traditional American meal: burgers. We have noticed a significant shift from the first group meal in Hanoi to our final group meal in Bangkok. While the group was originally timid, we have created an environment of mutual trust and respect where we genuinely enjoy each other’s company. The group has formed closer and long-lasting relationships with one another that will be carried back to Elon.
As we reflect on the trip as a whole, we are faced with nostalgia and sadness that it has come to an end. Ashley Zung succinctly and effectively described our J-term and said, “this has truly been an unforgettable experience, as we have been exposed to a diverse group of students as well as the cultures themselves. As cliché as it sounds, this has been one of the most influential experiences and we are eternally grateful for the leadership embodied in Raj and Mark”. Thank you, Elon, for giving us this opportunity to explore a region of the world that we would not have otherwise immersed ourselves in. Southeast Asia has a home in each one of our hearts.
Nina Valdes & Anna Van Jura
business and culture of the pacific rim 