Hello from the US – my cat, Steven, and I made it back! There was a delay because when we first went to the airport to fly out, the airline didn’t add Steven to all legs of the journey, so we were unable to fly. Traveling with a pet is definitely more stressful than traveling solo, so this was a bit of a setback, especially because the airline didn’t assist with rebooking. However, luckily my landlord in Thailand is really kind and let me come back to stay in the apartment for a few nights. My sister and friends also helped a lot when it came to looking up new flights. So then, Steven and I departed a few days later, and we are now in Nashville. It’s been so great to see family and friends here. My cat and my sister’s cats have been getting used to one another, and it’s been sweet to see them interact.

Compared to Bangkok heat, the weather here feels great to me, and it’s been nice to be surrounded by nature again. I’ve been running some errands and going to appointments here, and it’s interesting going from not typically being able to fluidly make small talk with people out and about in Thailand versus being able to converse in English again with people here (an ease and comfort that can be difficult to achieve in a foreign language). Also, luckily, I haven’t been experiencing jet lag, and I’ve been enjoying eating all the food here that I missed!

Next week, I will relocate to NYC. I will begin a new job there, and I will start part-time classes at CUNY Law in the fall. I am so glad to have made it back safely and to have this time to reflect further upon my experiences in Thailand and with AAT.

I would like to thank Shauna and the Lumos committee for helping bring this project to life and making it a reality. Also, I never would have been able to embark upon this journey without the help of the partner organization, AAT, and all of the incredible people at AAT. Thank you to my friends in Bangkok for making it feel like home and to my family/friends in the US for always supporting me, even from afar.

Also, to any future or prospective Lumos travelers, feel free to email me (annathompson17@gmail.com) if you have any questions about the Lumos process. Lumos is an incredible opportunity, and I would highly recommend it to anyone who is considering it!

an early birthday and going away cake from friends.. so sweet

Steven ready for his travels

made it!