Topic: change of environment
Thesis: I can adjust to a new environment

In the countryside in Cambodia it is a very different environment than what I am used to. On my first night I was in a bad mood because I was tired from travel and in a strange place. My second day here has been much better.

Cambodia has a very hot and humid climate. At first it was hard to get used to feeling sweaty all the time. I had brought the wrong sort of clothes with me. It was also an adjustment getting used to all the insects and other animals. Hanoi doesn’t have giant insect that hiss at you.

I now know just 1 word of Khmer, and sometimes I can’t even remember it. Maybe because this is the countryside, but people stare at me like I’m strange. I feel like I don’t know if people like me or not. I ate a bowl of noodles and didn’t look at anyone. But I feel very interested in them.

Even though it is awkward being in a very different physical and cultural environment, I find that I am adjusting quickly.

Q. How do people generally cope with the stress and challenges of adjusting to a new environment? Are there specific strategies or practices that can help individuals navigate the initial stages of living in a new place?
Q. How can individuals overcome language barriers when trying to connect with people from different linguistic backgrounds? Do you believe there are advantages to having friends or colleagues who have different opinions and beliefs?