Take Me With You Podcast

(Ep. 122) Studying Abroad in Thailand with Christine Munson

March 01, 2021 Season 3 Episode 18
Take Me With You Podcast
(Ep. 122) Studying Abroad in Thailand with Christine Munson
Show Notes

Christine shares about her study abroad experience in Northern Thailand. 


  • Spent 3 months in Thailand 
  • Picked the program because she was sick and tired of the Seattle Rain 
  • Focused on the gender dimensions of conflict 
    • Working on the border of Thailand & Burma/Myanmar 
    • Rohingya genocide crisis 
    • Very recently there was a military coup 
  • She was in Chiang Mai in Thailand for 90% of the time, which was very safe 
  • Learned about eco-farming = designing a forest in a designated area 
  • Mae Sot - border town between Thailand & Myanmar Burma 
    • In Thailand they drive on the left, but Myanmar Burma drives on the right to purposefully make the border crossing difficult 
  • The people were inspirational and incredible 
    • Was so inspired and wants to help do the work they are doing, which motivated her to go to grad school to learn more so she can be prepared to do that work 
  • Studying gender studies in conflict resolution 
    • There are more women engaged in battle 
    • Even those who are not engaged in battle are still affected and involved in the conflict 
      • For example, managing resources for the village while many others were fighting, which is being involved in the conflict 
      • Trauma also happens to women who are surrounded by and living in the midst of conflict 
      • Gender, Conflict, & Peacebuilding by Kimberly Thedin 
  • Northern Thailand is very different than southern Thailand (Bangkok area) and very worth the trip 
    • Chiang Mai 
      • Have khao soi (soup) 
      • Visit the incredible temples - remember to cover knees & shoulders, take off shoes 
        • Feet hold a lot of significance in Thailand 
      • An old kingdom, so there are old walls 
      • The northern gate has a night market with lots of incredible foods 
        • “Cowboy hat woman” has some great dishes 
      • Roti - like pancakes 
  • If you’re looking for authentic Thai food, Noodle Nation on “the Ave” in Seattle is the closest to authentic Thai food 
  • Learn a little bit of the language when going to any south east Asian country because fewer people can speak their language, so they really appreciate it 
    • Thai is a tonal language, so the way you say the word changes what it means 


Wish You Were Here

Cheryl: Boston Public Library, Boston, MA 

Christine: Motorcycle with University Students - Air BnB Experience, Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam 

Ryan: Fountains Abbey, Yorkshire, UK



Follow us on Twitter & Instagram: @tmwypodcast 

Leave us a voicemail (or text message): (406)763-8699 

Email: tmwypodcast@gmail.com 

Follow Christine: @_christinetravels_ on Instagram