At first, I didn't work because of the rain, so I managed to explore the surroundings and saw the ocean for the first time in my life. It was so restless, stormy, very salty, and endless. I chose the job based on the city's location, thinking I would swim in the ocean and sunbathe, but due to frequent storms, downpours, and a lack of time, I only swam 3-4 times. You can always go on a trip to the ocean and fully enjoy it.
The work wasn't difficult. The only thing is standing outside for a long time in hot weather; if you're not used to it, your feet hurt by the end of the day. Consider the climate and, if necessary, look for indoor work—they have air conditioning. Communicating with customers boiled down to standard phrases; sometimes there was an opportunity to joke and chat, it all depended on the people. Most often, they were families with children, as it is a city for family vacations, sometimes just couples or children and teenagers.
When going shopping, everyone usually goes to Walmart. Every time I went past the shelves, my eyes would widen because everything was so new and unknown, and I wanted to try everything. Keep in mind that most products contain sugar, so all students gain weight by the end of the season. In Myrtle Beach, there are two large outlets—Tanger Outlets. There are many stores on their territory, but the prices aren't particularly low, though they are lower than in Russia. During your travels, you will have the opportunity to visit other places with better prices and a larger selection.
In the USA, you can order everything online. Usually, besides brand-name online stores, guys use amazon.com to buy any kind of goods; they have fast delivery and low prices. But a courier might consider your place of residence unsafe and not leave your order if you are not at home, or conversely, leave a very valuable item right at the door. Therefore, if you have the opportunity, it is better to arrange with your employer to place orders at their address. This way, you will save your money and nerves.
For entertainment, I visited Family Kingdom Amusement Park and the Splash water park—for free, because I worked on their premises. I didn't really like the water park, it's small, but the amusement park is worth visiting, and maybe more than once, it's cool! My friends and I went to Sharkis club for a J-1 party. It was a "fiery" entertainment—music from different countries played for students from all over the world.
Unfortunately, the season in Myrtle Beach ends in mid-August, children return to school, which means fewer visitors in the park, and there is no work. So, for the last 3 weeks, I relaxed and spent time with friends.
By the beginning of September, hurricanes are forecast on the South Carolina coast year after year, and this year was no exception. For those who have never encountered this, the word "hurricane" can instill fear. That was the case for us. Panic, despair, acceptance, humility. My friends and I went through all these stages. Just like in an action-packed American movie—many residents left the city, shops closed, windows were boarded up, shelters were set up in schools and churches where anyone could come (you should do the same), and people stocked up on food and water. But in reality, the hurricane turned out to be strong wind and rain for a day. We had to sit indoors all day, but in good company, time flies.
It was not without tears that I left Myrtle Beach; I was sad to part with the guys who had become so dear to me. We hope for a possible future meeting, even if not in the USA, but in any other country. Myrtle Beach became a place for me where I found truly strong friendship and unforgettable impressions. This is the city of my summer adventures.
