Lunch

So a couple weeks ago I was out with the staff for a few days. As we entered one of the cities it was close to lunch time. Here lunch is a very serious affair, one eats and then takes a nap for a little while. The average time for lunch is 1.5 to 2 hours. I usually eat at the Khmer restaurants with my staff and typically am eating something familiar (well familiar after living here for 7 months). As we were driving through the city one of the guys told me they would be dropping me off at a more western restaurant for lunch and would come pick me up later. I was puzzled why he would be saying this and asked him jokingly if he was trying to get rid of me. He laughed and then said he was concerned for my stomach and I assured him I have eaten at places similar to what ever the driver was going to pick. He still tried talking me out of it until I assured him I appreciated his concern for my gut but I would be fine.

The rest of the day went on as planned, meeting with various organizations to do some networking with a new staff hire. It was the next day as we were driving that the truth about lunch the previous day was exposed. The guy who seemed to be concerned for my tummy confessed that they had wanted to go eat at a restaurant that served dog meat. I laughed because I told him I knew he was trying to get rid of me. And I asked why they hadn't just told me that. I'm not sure I would be ready to eat some Fido but I'm up for different experiences while here. (you can judge me all you want for considering eating dog, but after 7 months things that seem different start to feel really normal) Of course I don't speak Khmer well enough to know that is what they were talking about in the car the day before. I think I should learn the word for dog.

Too cute to eat this dog ;)

That night for dinner I ate at a place known for their smoothies...wow, that is all I can say. I have never had such a good smoothie. Jack fruit with pineapple...my mouth is watering just thinking about it. A friend and I are hoping they open up more of these restaurants in our city!! 5 hours is a little too far to go just for a Smoothie :)