Laos: Part I

Phew! This tiring week is finally at an end. My mentor was in town recently which apparently leads to early mornings and late nights of work related meetings, conference calls, trainings, presentations, and work dinners (3 fancy buffets in 4 days - FTW, today I only want fruit). I was really excited about his visit until I realized that because he is who he is, the staff cater to him and his agenda 24/7. Hospitality is great but this last week showed me how important personal time is to me. Not sure if this makes sense but I just need to mention that the big shots who visit Hanoi deserve some props because this doting on is so tiring.

Mmm...and I got another bout of really bad food poisoning. Yay. It was quite an experience to smile through a 3 hour dinner with the national hospital heads (me sitting next to the director no less) while nursing an aching stomach, repeatedly sneaking off to the bathroom, and then having to join in on toasts with whiskey. Yea, I'm whining...but despite being tired I'm happy for this last week. I got to hang out with my mentor, got closer and more comfortable with one of my PIs from Stanford and have found that I respect them even more.

ANYWAY - on to why I am posting! I recently spent some time in Luang Prabang, Laos and it was probably the most relaxing, laid-back vacation I've ever had. It wasn't so much in what I was doing but the environment of Laos. It is hard to describe and everyone told me it was a country you go to for some peace and quiet and they were not lying. I absolutely loved the city and wish I had more time to explore the less touristy destinations of Laos. I think what makes the country so beautiful is that unlike other areas of Southeast Asia, it is not AS touched by the culture commodifying hands of Westerners...this won't last long and lots of change is already happening but for now I'll revel in the natural beauty of the country.

In other news - it is MATCH DAY!!! aka the day medical students find out where they will spending the next tiring years of their lives in residency. Seeing where my classmates' ended up is a sweet, sweet reminder about how lucky I am to go to a great school, with great people, who will do great things. CONGRATULATIONS UCSF 2012! You all are amazing!

My awesome hut in Laos

Made more awesome by the friendly cats/dogs living in the vicinity

Rode around in this lovely the whole trip!

Mekong River