10s

10 things that the US is missing out on:

1.     Hammocks. They are everywhere here.  I am certainly bringing one back for my dorm room.

2.      Chifle.  Ecuadorian version of potato chips.

3.     Eating tree-ripened mango… there is no equivalent.

4.     Reggaeton.

5.     Good dancing… we have quite the reputation as terrible dancers.

6.     Recess for high schoolers.

7.     Nationwide vacations (from school, work, etc.) that are mandated by the government.

8.     Taxi rides costing less than $3.

9.     Having a more affectionate greeting [cheek kiss].  The handshake just seems so insufficient and distanced to me now.

10.  Cooking almost everything from scratch.  There’s not a whole lot of “Oh, just pop it in the microwave” here.

10 things I miss about the US:

1.     Salads. Really just vegetables in general…

2.     No one is surprised/offended when you say you aren’t religious.

3.     Rare steak. Chicken breast.

4.     Women aren’t expected to be quite as dressed up all the time. I miss going out in my sweat pants and t-shirt.

5.     Seasons.

6.     Being able to go on long runs.

7.     Incredible respect for individuality.

8.     Being punctual.

9.     Americanized Chinese food. 

10.  Fast, reliable internet [that is always present…].