What an adventure you have signed up for! Let’s get ready...

What to pack:
A readiness to learn new things in new ways. Yep, you may know a “better way,” but that’s not why you are here.
Thick skin. Daily you will be evaluated by your peers and instructor.
Your favorite writing utensil and refills. You will be doing a lot a writing—notes, your thoughts, lesson plans.
A working computer. Without it it you will be very unhappy.
An ability to budget your time, energy, and resources to complete multiple, simultaneous projects.
A strong immune system. Long hours, new challenges, and kids can tax your immune system. Bolster yourself in advance. Bring a month’s supply of your favorite supplements.
At least one set of PROPER teaching clothes.
Your swimsuit. The pool is lovely.

Leave at home:
All extra responsibilities. You will not have the time, energy, or mental space to successfully do anything else. There is not a set daily schedule for the entire month. Now is the time to take a leave of absence from everything else. REALLY!

Do your research in advance:
All work and no play...makes for crabby teachers. While you will be terrifically busy with classroom responsibilities, you will want to make time to be a tourist. When you have unexpected free time, you will want to use it doing the cool things you planned ahead for—-not just starting your search.
Join some of the Siem Reap Facebook groups (expats, foodies, etc.) and identify some places you would like to patronize.
Search the web for “things to do in Siem Reap” and create a wish list—or a reward list.
Google Maps is your friend. Create a “list” and save the places you find through your research.

Plan to contribute to the local economy
In an area hugely dependent on tourism, the people of Siem Reap have been hard hit by the fallout of COVID-19.
Buy the 7-day Pass for Angkor Wat (it is valid for a whole month).
Find a business or cause to support (e.g., Drivers Srey: Woman Tuk Tuk Drivers, Angkor Centre for Conservation of Biodiversity, GIVE Kefir).
Go the the smaller book stores (office supply stores) for fun stuff to add to your classes.
(Please note: unless you have been in the country for at least 3 months, be careful with street food. Now is not the time to deal with digestive problems.)

Plan to have a great time!