East Asia

Research shows you're more likely to follow through on a commitment if you write it down, or verbally agree to said commitment. So here I am, writing it down.

I'll be honest, I was pretty shook up following the PhD news. I always felt that if I wanted something bad enough, I'd get it; that if I worked hard enough, I would reach my goal. I worked hard last year, and I did not get what I wanted. So, I learned a valuable lesson - something I always knew, but was too naive to really absorb and accept: sometimes things don't work out the way you plan, but everything happens for a reason.

Puuuhlease, do not misinterpret my moping for discouragement. I will obtain a doctoral degree someday. But until then, I'm gonna divert my energy elsewhere...

The plan is to leave the day after Christmas and fly to Shanghai. (The idea of flying "backwards" and arriving the next day creeps me out!) Look at these... It's a mini vacation right here at Cue!!

Nanjing Road

Yuyuan Garden

Lupu Bridge

After spending several days with my dear friend Sam in Shanghai, we'll fly down to Bangkok... 

The Floating Market

Wat Arun

Siam Ocean World

Really, this gives off the "cabana boy" vibe, but it looks AMAZING nonetheless.

Elephant Ride at Mu Ko Chang National Park

Finally, we'll jet down to Bali. (Anddd, it turns out I'm that cheesy person who read Eat Pray Love and fell in love with the idea of traveling to Bali.)

Bali Botanical Gardens

Besakih Temple

Really, need I say more?

I'll return the second week of January - hopefully rich with stories of East Asia, and eager to plan my next trip! :) Really, just doing the research and perusing through photos gets me psyched! I'll need some help. If you have travel recommendations, hit me with 'em!