Post Thailand

It has now been a week since I have returned from Thailand and I think I am now finally over my jet-lag. Our ten-day adventure had a packed itinerary filled with several temples, markets, pharmacies and hospitals. It was an incredible experience and I learned so much about the culture, health care and even a few Thai phrases. One of the most memorable moments of the trip was shadowing a pharmacist during a home visit. This pharmacist displayed so much compassion and love for his patients. The level of professionalism and genuine care was special, it was truly a site to see. We were also fortunate to spend a few days with some Thai pharmacy students, they were not only friendly and sweet but they also were great hosts and took us to the best Thai restaurants and cafes. I will definitely treasure this experience with my fellow classmates and I look forward to visiting Thailand again someday. Half-way across the world my energy was lifted and I came home with a sense of urgency to do better.

Best,

Alejandra

Trip of a Lifetime

After going on this international trip I am so thankful I decided to go. This trip brought so many of me and my classmates closer. From the long flights, trying new foods, and riding elephants we all bonded every day. Being with such a large group of friends made everything so much fun (even eating in the rain together). I did not expect for Thailand to be so developed and nice. Our hotel was amazing and each school/ hospital was beyond my expectations I had. Our days were so packed with sightseeing I didn't even have time to be home sick considering as soon as my head hit my pillow I was out and morning came so quick. I really wish I had another week to explore other beaches and just have time to relax in the sand. One of my favorite parts was how cheap everything is compared to the US. The food was delicious and I could order so many different plates and only spend a few dollars. I highly suggest the Thai massages. They are very different than one you could get in the states and it doesn't break the bank. Around our hotel were so many different malls that you could probably explore for weeks and never see everything. There are about 7 floors per mall and at some you can bargain for a good deal. The temples and palaces were unlike anything I have ever seen. Thailand has some of the most beautiful views I have ever seen in my life. Pictures just cannot capture the detail and size of everything we witnessed. The boat rides we took were so much fun and had so many surprises. On our first boat ride we even saw elephants on the side of the river and got to get out and pet them. If anyone reading this is wondering if they should go just know it is truly a once and a lifetime opportunity. You get to be with so many friends, with the best tour guides, and you never have to worry about a thing or where you're going.

Thanks for reading

Kristen Pyland