Krabi report team hits small patch of quick sand

The 20 plus member team of Chula and UCB students and faculty have hit a slight rough spot in our report production process. Basically, language barriers and differences in working styles have created some confusion and frustration.

Us Americans are probably most to blame. We have something of an adverserial working style - we are comfortable in attacking and challenging each other's ideas in an open forum in order to derive the best solution. I myself admit it is an intimidating environment.

Apparently, the Thai virtue of social harmony and cohesion is a little at odds with our operating MO. They are uncomfortable with the fact that we argue with each other so much. Plus, we were told we need to be more quiet and speak in turn. This is harder said than done, especially in doing such a large project with so many responsibilities and differences in individual working styles.

Pit just brought in 4 boxes of sticky rice and mangos. I need to go get a bite before it vaporizes. We're all stressed out and eating seems like the only socially acceptable way to alleviate ourselves at this point.

I'll be home in 7 days, can't believe it. I don't have a job to come home to which adds to my underlying stress. More sticky rice...