Tuesday, March 01, 2005

far east

here's the scoop ... one of the teachers on the school trip to china had to suddenly back out, so i get to go. do i speak a lick of chinese? no. have i ever been to the far east? no. but i'm going. i found out yesterday that i leave on the 12th for an 11-day adventure with 2 other chaperones and 16 kids. i have to fill out an emergency visa, get a hep a shot, and remember not to brush my teeth with the water from the faucet.

if you've ever been, please send me some advice, tips, hints, you name it. this is crazy!

6 Comments:

At 11:45 AM, Blogger Teresa said...

wow mary! how cool!

Well, I've never been to China but I have been to the Philippines.....and my husband has been to Indonesia....

For me and others I've known who have gone to other countries....the general rule has been to make sure you keep all your pertinent documents like i.d., money, etc. on your person at all times! Don't check them or even put them in a carry on bag....put them in a little pouch that you can attach to a chain of some sort to carry around your neck.

Also, when packing, make sure that you squeeze as much excess air as you can out of the bottles you pack. i.e. shampoo, conditioner, etc. That way there is less chance that you'll have an explosion in your luggage due to pressure changes. I always do this anytime I pack AND I put everything that could possibly spill or leak in freezer bags.

For helpful information while your in China, I have none, sorry. I do hope your trip is a memorable one and I look forward to hearing about it when you come back too!

Teresa**

 
At 11:51 AM, Blogger Erik said...

Awesome news, Scott Stevens may be a good contact. I think he spent a few weeks there.

 
At 6:12 AM, Blogger Mary said...

dude, paul, you should still come. just join us for easter instead. besides, erin's having friends in town, and how sad would i be with NO friends around. so come, come! you get a 4 day weekend, my friend ...

 
At 5:46 PM, Anonymous Anonymous said...

Easter...right. Mom is trying to coerce me into hosting the entire family (they'd stay in hotels, of course...I ain't got that kinda space). I doubt I can get out of it, especially considering I didn't go home for Easter last year. Ugh.

Hmm, so, maybe a visit next year?

--paolo

 
At 6:08 PM, Blogger Justin C. said...

China, wow!!! I really wish I could help you, but I have never been out of the U.S. Wish I could go some place like that. Well, good luck on your trip, have fun:)

 
At 6:33 PM, Blogger Mary said...

paulie - lame excuse. hosting easter? why don't you bring the fam to chicago? seriously. tell your dad to bring his accordian - i never did get to hear him play.

mr. terms - thanks for the good wishes. i promise to bring back lots of good stories.

 

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