So much goes into preparing for a posting like this. Its really all the things you think will be easy that end up taking the most time. Security clearances, passports, issues around property management, and shopping (oh the shopping). I really can’t wait for money to stop flowing outward. We shouldn’t complain though – we now have enough Gravol to last us for three years.

This isn’t going to be the first time living outside of Canada for either of us: we met on our way to New Zealand with the  Student Work Abroad Program (SWAP). This time is not going to be as easy. While New Zealand wasn’t Canada, it was still very familiar. Everyone spoke English, even if it was with an accent. There was cereal, rugby, ketchup, and french fries. You could go for long walks around the city, and not succumb to heat, pollution, or traffic.

Indonesia promises to be an experience of a different sort. Admittedly, we are relying on what others are telling us at this point. There seems to be a lot to be nervous about: riots, earthquakes, tsunamis, volcanos, macet, floods, and smog. To be fair, there will also be a maid, a driver, a great place to live, and lots of travel (Bali and Borobudur, among others).

Even with all of the possible problems, both of us are really looking forward to the adventure of it all. We’re looking forward to trying something new and completely different, even if it comes with some growing pains (and culture shock). We’ll be heading into this with our eyes open, and ready for anything. Here goes nothing!

-R