5 Things

As my departure date gets ever closer {a week and a half!}, I can share with you more of my adventure! I'm busy packing, organizing, trying to figure out how to pay for everything I need, and reading as much as possible.

Speaking of reading, I've done a LOT of research on little-known things I *might* want to have with me. Some of the things I thought of originally are apparently easy-to-find {feminine hygiene products}, and some things I'm glad I read about. Here are 5 things I'm taking with me:

1. Carbon-Monoxide Detector: Apparently these aren't really, erm, required over there, but are more of a necessity. I'm only planning on finding a small apartment, so one should be fine.

2. Two different bike locks and my helmet: Helmets, also, are not sold in many places, and I've read that their quality is sometimes questionable. Also, bike theft is quite common, and it's easier for bike stealers to break Chinese locks rather than western ones.

3. Spices: Definitely, I want to have my preferred spices with me. I'm excited to learn more about Chinese spices, but it's always a good idea to have your old standbys ready until you're comfortable with new things.

4. The Harry Potter series on my Kindle: I re-read these books often, especially when I'm stressed or upset. I anticipate some homesickness and stressful moments, and I definitely don't have much room in my luggage for 7 huge novels. E-books were made for situations like this!

5. Hair gel: I just don't think that my scrunchie hair gel will be available over there. Curly hair is hard to find products for even in places where it's common, but in a country where not many folks have it? I'll just bring my own.

Anyone have hints? What would you bring with you?