A Broad Abroad in Thailand

A Broad Abroad in Thailand
Dodie Cross
Cross Roads Four Ways West Publishing
ISBN: 978-1419672354
Nonfiction, Memoir
Reviewed by Vianna Renaud

Dodie Cross only had adventure on her mind for her and her family when she first entertained the idea to move to the beautiful land of Thailand. While this meant that she had to marry her boyfriend that she wasn’t too convinced about, but at the same time, would be able to bring her son and family over, she figured that she had nothing to lose. Looking forward to a new life of sunshine and exotic experiences, she had no idea of just how reality was going to be, in spite of the language barrier.
After a rocky beginning in the Land of Smiles, she very quickly learned about how life was to be. It was expressed that she had to follow the ridiculous rules of the company’s head couple. The cracks in her relationship began to turn into serious breaks and bit by bit, she began to feel like a prisoner in a seemingly perfect world.
Her luck continued to take a similar pattern. She suffered a near-fatal accident on the Sukhumvit highway and after having bladder surgery performed by a local doctor, discovered her virginity had been restored. After realizing that life would never be what she had hoped for, especially in this situation, she decided to leave Thailand. In spite of all the ups and downs, she will always treasure her time in Thailand.
I really enjoyed how Ms. Cross intertwines insight and humorous wit to make these little events come to life. As I’ve also experienced the life of an expat, I can definitely relate to both the ups and downs of international living. While one can tend to stay on the negative points, I appreciated how Ms. Cross mentioned the highlights of her stay abroad, including her work with the orphanage and her connection to the culture and heritage of Thailand. This book provided a delightful escape into a scenic journey to a beautiful place that I think every reader will appreciate.