Residents just wanna have fun

Dr. Xaykesone (2nd year, Chief resident) and Interns Drs. Chilapah, Kongpath, Panivone (back) , Sisomphone and Phonepaedith take a break from dancing.



One thing that I am adjusting to about the Lao culture is there is always an opportunity for a celebration. A bacci for a new house, welcome home, farewell, etc. Even weddings which are common times of celebrations around the world, get celebrated with more enthusiasm here. Nothing like throwing a party for you and your 1000 closest friends. Not only are your friends and family invited but the friends, coworkers and other random people your parents and grandparents know. So it was for the wedding party I went to last week with the residents. The groom was the son of one of the leaders and "founding fathers" of the internal medicine residency program. None of us knew the bride or the groom, but the majority of the IM residents and teachers came for the night of dinner and dancing. Although a very different style of dancing than anything I have previously experienced, it is kind of fun in its own slow, hands off way. I have also recently discovered the passion the Lao have for line dancing. Who would have guessed? The residents said they will teach me the various dances before Lao New Year so that I can fit it. I also need to get some fancier clothing and less sensible shoes to really fit in. I will choose to not fit in when it comes to drinking too much and then driving home. It is hard work to keep the glass from getting filled with alcohol but I am learning little tricks along the way. Unfortunately I will be on vacation for the next wedding which is for someone I actually know, but I am sure there will be many more occasions to celebrate.