Living in Asia

Getting Sick

For the first few years you will get sick in the winter; even if it's your first week in the middle of summer you'll get sick. Different parts of the world have whole different groups of colds and flues that our bodies are not used to. That means that we are susceptible to anything going around... just about.

Being sick for a long time, with different colds and flues will get you down physically, mentally and motivationally. For god sake, go to the doctor and get drugged up! You can get back to work, and it can prevent a lot of stress and problems between you and your employer, by you not asking to take too many sick days (any employer, Western or Eastern really don't like that).

Admittedly, I don't like taking medicine for colds and flues. However, it is unpleasant for your students, and other people around you, as you can't stop coughing, sneezing, sniffing and snorting. Students will drop out of classes, as you would look disgusting, and they can get worried that they too will catch something as nasty as what you have got.

After a few seasons, your body will have got used to the different group of colds and flues, and so you will not be so susceptible.

Recommended Places:

Seoul, Korea: The International Clinic, in the 'Itaewon' (Very good English when I was there, very friendly, understanding and helpful)  http://www.internationalclinic.co.kr/

Taipei, Taiwan: The Adventist Hospital. The staff generally has moderately good English, but the doctor is fluent in English and Japanese! You can get express service (if you're willing to pay), and you don't need medical insurance (but you've gotta' pay)  http://www.tahsda.org.tw/

Japan: See this page here.