I will try and get you caught up briefly since it is already Wednesday and I haven't been able to write since Sunday.
I arrived in SFO without any problems and got to meet the rest of the group. Everyone is great and the orientation at the Sheraton went well. Although most of us were ready to go to bed, we boarded the bus and went to our welcome reception at the official residence of Japanese Consul General Yasumasa Nagamine. His house was gorgeous, high on the hills of San Francisco and overlooked the Golden Gate. The food was fantastic and we felt extremely privileged to be invited to his home.
The next morning we woke up early (I was up at 2:44am, but enjoyed the plush bed until 6) and got ready for the airport. I was on the first flight (UA837 to Narika/Tokyo) that left at 11:28 am (Monday). The flight was long, extremely long but everything went smoothly. I sat next to a gentleman who was from China, but living in San Francisco. He travels to Japan every month on business. He gave me alot of advice about things to do and see while I was there. I read a lot from my travel books and wished I could fall asleep. We finally arrived on Tuesday at 2:10 pm! After clearing customs and getting all of our luggage we headed for the bus to Tokyo. It took us about an hour, passing rice patties and Disney World on our way. We arrived at Tokyo Prince Hotel and checked it. It was amazing! The hotel is located right next to the Tokyo Tower and surrounded by some beautiful temples. I found my room and quickly began checking out everything. I took photos of every corner of the room including the toilet which has heated seats and much more! :) Everything was laid out so perfectly.
I then met up with a friend from my group and we went out to explore a bit of the area. We stopped by a noodle shop to get some delicious soba noodles (made from buckwheat)which totally hit the spot. We then returned to the hotel and hit the bed by 9pm.
So it is now 4:53 am and I set up a wake-up call for 6:00. We have a really busy day planned so I will try and lay down for an hour before I have to get up. I have photos that I will try and post as soon as I figure out the Japanese or how to change my site into English!
2 comments:
Glad to hear you made it safely. Can't wait to see the pictures you will post after fixing the language issue...sounds like you need a "Tech Form". ;o)
A little bit of jet lag Vera.
It's funny you took a picture of the toilet because of the conversation we had before you left. Can't wait to hear about you experience with your host family.
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