Started reading your blog recently. Glad to hear that you're adjusting. Yes the sun will tan you here more quickly. I can spend a month in Singapore and not get as dark as I can in two days here in North America (I'm in Canada).
One piece of advice. You might consider getting a personal alarm or a whistle if you have to walk in dark places or alone (usually $20 or less for the alarm, maybe a dollar for the whistle). It might be a hassle, but you'll love it if you have to use them to draw attention to you.