wake up and meet in the lobby at 5:30am to start our long journey to Narita Airport.
This time we had it down pat, using the elevator to load everyone's luggage up flights of stairs.
On the plane back to America....
Monday, June 15, 2009
(5/24) TOKYO
Today we are supposed to meet in the lobby at 1:30pm if we want to go on the company visit to the CEO of HBSC's home. Me and Hanuel definately wanted to go, but we wanted to try and go back to Nakkano first to visit the 525 yen store. We ate at Himalaya Curry (this is like the 5th time; everyone on the trip loves this place, plus it is close to the Olympic Center) and after that decided that we wanted to figure out how to take the JR line instead of the metro. Hanuel heard one guy buying a ticket speaking in English over the phone. "This guy is our only chance," she said, and so we stopped him and asked for help. He was very kind and generous with his time. He rode with us to the next station and set us up for success with maps and directions. Then I starting talking with him and discovered that he studyed abroad in America during High School in Ohio. He actually went to school at Heritage Christian in Canton; thats Crazy!!! Thats where I am from! No Way! What a small world. I couldn't believe it! We successfully shopped and bought cheap dresses! Next we had to rush back to change for the business visit/tea party.
We missed the group leaving for the visit, so we decided to call Charlie and get the directions. I knew we would somehow make it even though we only knew the metro stop and the address. Charlie said that the apartment was 10 minutes from the metro so we would have to find it on our own. We started in the direction we thought we should go and stopped people on the street or went into family marts to ask for directions. No one spoke English so we tried to follow their hand motions and just walk that way. Eventually, we passed over a bridge of water and came across the building that we were supposed to find! Yea! We somehow got through the security doors and told the lady we were Appalachian State Students and proceeded up to the 48th floor. Navin (the CEO) had an amazing place overlooking a lake in the middle of Tokyo. We had a perfect view of the Tokyo Tower which was beautiful. Navin gave us an unformal presentation, discussing the current economic situation, the real work world, and life in general. Navin is from India and is married to a Taiwanese woman that runs her own business (in fact, she makes more than he does). Navin is a worldly man that works in International business and as he was speaking I felt like a sponge, just absorbing every word he said. He gave us advice that I will use for the rest of my life. Confidence, Competence, and Candour. These three things are what Navin says he looks for in interviews and in people in general. I thought this idea was profound. Life can be this simple. Navin's temperment was so relaxed, wise, and controlled, he was an amazing person to meet and this final event was the end all for my trip. I was perfectly content; thankful that I got this experience and the chance to have this experience.
We missed the group leaving for the visit, so we decided to call Charlie and get the directions. I knew we would somehow make it even though we only knew the metro stop and the address. Charlie said that the apartment was 10 minutes from the metro so we would have to find it on our own. We started in the direction we thought we should go and stopped people on the street or went into family marts to ask for directions. No one spoke English so we tried to follow their hand motions and just walk that way. Eventually, we passed over a bridge of water and came across the building that we were supposed to find! Yea! We somehow got through the security doors and told the lady we were Appalachian State Students and proceeded up to the 48th floor. Navin (the CEO) had an amazing place overlooking a lake in the middle of Tokyo. We had a perfect view of the Tokyo Tower which was beautiful. Navin gave us an unformal presentation, discussing the current economic situation, the real work world, and life in general. Navin is from India and is married to a Taiwanese woman that runs her own business (in fact, she makes more than he does). Navin is a worldly man that works in International business and as he was speaking I felt like a sponge, just absorbing every word he said. He gave us advice that I will use for the rest of my life. Confidence, Competence, and Candour. These three things are what Navin says he looks for in interviews and in people in general. I thought this idea was profound. Life can be this simple. Navin's temperment was so relaxed, wise, and controlled, he was an amazing person to meet and this final event was the end all for my trip. I was perfectly content; thankful that I got this experience and the chance to have this experience.
(5/23) TOKYO
Saturday= Our first FREE DAY!
Sleep in a bit.
Then off to LAQUA, a roller coaster/amusement park in Downtown Tokyo. When we got there the first thing we saw was a coaster that goes straight through a hole in a building; how sweet!! Fun rides, fun friends, it was a superb way to spend our free time. The water ride was hilarious and we rode kiddie rides and the 'hacker' over and over again. I had the best time. James told me that he knew I was having a good time because my smile streched from ear to ear for at least ten minutes straight. We met some Russian guys from Estonia but they were kind of creepy and all had rotten teeth. For dinner we went to a place called Bubba Gump's, which is an American chain based on the movie Forest Gump. I had never been to one, and we enjoyed our dinner; I got two huge sides of mashed potatoes, yes! I had been wanting potatoes for so long and for some reason it is hard to find them over here.
Sleep in a bit.
Then off to LAQUA, a roller coaster/amusement park in Downtown Tokyo. When we got there the first thing we saw was a coaster that goes straight through a hole in a building; how sweet!! Fun rides, fun friends, it was a superb way to spend our free time. The water ride was hilarious and we rode kiddie rides and the 'hacker' over and over again. I had the best time. James told me that he knew I was having a good time because my smile streched from ear to ear for at least ten minutes straight. We met some Russian guys from Estonia but they were kind of creepy and all had rotten teeth. For dinner we went to a place called Bubba Gump's, which is an American chain based on the movie Forest Gump. I had never been to one, and we enjoyed our dinner; I got two huge sides of mashed potatoes, yes! I had been wanting potatoes for so long and for some reason it is hard to find them over here.
Sunday, June 14, 2009
Day 5 (5/22) TOKYO
HARLEY DAVIDSON: This company visit was pretty cool overall! Angela and I were assigned this Harvard Case Study, so about 20 minutes before entering we both gave a brief about the case and company. I felt as though mine was really beneficial- hit all the high points. After entering we were all brought to a conference room and were given a really generous gift: keychain, ads, magazine, catalog, etc. The presentation was very well planned with a power point presentation that correlated with packets at our seats. I asked a lot of questions at the end and found the visit highly educational. Everything is imported from the U.S.; hardly any merchandise in the showroom said Tokyo on it in the store.
SONY: We walked to sony and got ready for our company briefs, the wind was blowing like crazy. Food, hair, skirts, are blowing all around. We were in a wind tunnel of huge corporate buildings. As we enter, everyone is shocked at how impressive the building is. Super technological looking/feeling. Tall ceilings, open and symmetrical, sleek. Elevators were clear glass. We had a presentation in the movie room which was so relaxing and high-tech. The latest digital screens and graphics. We also saw George Lucas's camera that filmed Star Wars- the serial number on the camera was no. 1. Also, they had the Spiderman suit that Toby McGuire wore! Sweet! We also saw new cameras, ps3 games, music players that dance to the beat of the music and more! Everyone loved it!
RED LIGHT DISTRICT: After traveling quite a way, getting lost, and disputing with each other over directions we finally made it! Thousands of people and millions of lights. We were all silly at that point, thanks to Asahi. Also, we saw still more men in suits! It never matters what time it is. They actually have store fronts with portraits of the girls inside posted outside with flashing lights and velvet drapes you enter through like a door. Nuts! Totally prostitution type of thing. And when we were in Roppongi there were pimps walking up to our guys asking if his ladies could interest one of them tonight. Jake just continued walking, but I was shocked. The guy was a red-haired English/British guy and all of his buddies were black guys. All the metro station gates close to us were closed; apparently due to the fact that it is a sketchy area past dark. Taxi home; automatic closing car doors close right on my foot ouch!! The man appologized.
SONY: We walked to sony and got ready for our company briefs, the wind was blowing like crazy. Food, hair, skirts, are blowing all around. We were in a wind tunnel of huge corporate buildings. As we enter, everyone is shocked at how impressive the building is. Super technological looking/feeling. Tall ceilings, open and symmetrical, sleek. Elevators were clear glass. We had a presentation in the movie room which was so relaxing and high-tech. The latest digital screens and graphics. We also saw George Lucas's camera that filmed Star Wars- the serial number on the camera was no. 1. Also, they had the Spiderman suit that Toby McGuire wore! Sweet! We also saw new cameras, ps3 games, music players that dance to the beat of the music and more! Everyone loved it!
RED LIGHT DISTRICT: After traveling quite a way, getting lost, and disputing with each other over directions we finally made it! Thousands of people and millions of lights. We were all silly at that point, thanks to Asahi. Also, we saw still more men in suits! It never matters what time it is. They actually have store fronts with portraits of the girls inside posted outside with flashing lights and velvet drapes you enter through like a door. Nuts! Totally prostitution type of thing. And when we were in Roppongi there were pimps walking up to our guys asking if his ladies could interest one of them tonight. Jake just continued walking, but I was shocked. The guy was a red-haired English/British guy and all of his buddies were black guys. All the metro station gates close to us were closed; apparently due to the fact that it is a sketchy area past dark. Taxi home; automatic closing car doors close right on my foot ouch!! The man appologized.
JAPANESE TRENDS
CELL PHONES: They use their cell phones way more than we do. Especially in the subway. Every single person is either reading a small book (which may have a decorative cover) or playing on their cell phones...even grandmas and older people- it's not just the younger generation. They also all have cell phone charms kind of how we have keychains for our sets of keys. Some are straps, some are little animals, beads, logos, etc. This seems so funny to all of us. Barely anyone does that in the U.S. It's strange that different cultures have different wants and needs. For them, these are either useful, fashionable, or enjoyed in some way.
MEN & WOMEN OF THE WORKWORLD: Everyone wears suits! Suits every day, all day. Even when we were in the park men are wearing suits just leisurly walking through and women are wearing heels riding a bicycles with a babies on the back. Crazy huh?! We were shocked. Even when we would walk home late, say 1am, people are STILL in their suits carrying their briefcases. It seems like they never let go and wear something comfy. Dang. Women wear heels every single day too-no matter where they are-walking through the city all day or even at the amusement park we went to. When looking from a far or above the street, everyone looks the same. Identical. Almost robotical; it's kind of scary this many people all looking/doing/wearing the same. Charlie gave us an example of the difference between Japanese culture and American culture:
Japanese: Formality. Japanese culture places everyone all together, working for one another. They try to blend in as much as possible with the crowd and each other. Thisi explains why they all dress alike- to blend together. It's a lot more conservative than our culture. Seems a little stuffy.
Americans: American culture has taught us to be INDIVIDUALS; to find things that make you unique so that you stand out from the crowd. We tend to think about ourselves more- a type of "I" attitude. No conformity. Just express yourself how you want.
END RESULT: hard for us to relate; we don't see life in this aspect or perspective.
DRESS AT THE WOMEN'S UNIVERSITY: These ladies have some funky fashions, it's ridiculous. They all wear itty-bitty skirts that are usually made of lace tiers or tiny little shorts that are sometimes invisible because their top is long. It is trendy to wear black knee-high hose to cover part of the leg. High heels always. a lot of black eye make-up too. Everytime I was in the bathroom I saw at least one girl running her black eye liner around her eye. Still shocked by the short attire. They probably figure, hey what the heck- wear what you want now because once you start working you become one of many boxed into a certain look. When they were going through the lower levels of school they wore uniforms, were prohibited to wear any make-up or dye their hair at all. See, strict rules. And I thought my grade school's rules were strict.
FAMILY & RELIGION: Family seems to be really tight-knit. A lot of the girls at the university actually still live at home. They commute to school. More emphasis is placed on family closeness. Kids are everywhere; they are my favorite! They have the cutest faces. Women tend to have children at a later age than most women in America. They also wait until their 30's or so to get married. Probably a good reccomendation for couples in the states. Religion prominance is nothing of what it is in the U.S. Sachiko said that she doesn't practice any religion- wasn't brought up with it. She did say that their is some Chistianity and definately Buddism. Hmm... somehow this doesn't really seem to strange to me, yet so different from the religious environment I was raised in. Actually, in one of our classroom sessions (Dr. Fox's Lesson) the girls said that when they die they just want to be remembered as nice people.
MEN & WOMEN OF THE WORKWORLD: Everyone wears suits! Suits every day, all day. Even when we were in the park men are wearing suits just leisurly walking through and women are wearing heels riding a bicycles with a babies on the back. Crazy huh?! We were shocked. Even when we would walk home late, say 1am, people are STILL in their suits carrying their briefcases. It seems like they never let go and wear something comfy. Dang. Women wear heels every single day too-no matter where they are-walking through the city all day or even at the amusement park we went to. When looking from a far or above the street, everyone looks the same. Identical. Almost robotical; it's kind of scary this many people all looking/doing/wearing the same. Charlie gave us an example of the difference between Japanese culture and American culture:
Japanese: Formality. Japanese culture places everyone all together, working for one another. They try to blend in as much as possible with the crowd and each other. Thisi explains why they all dress alike- to blend together. It's a lot more conservative than our culture. Seems a little stuffy.
Americans: American culture has taught us to be INDIVIDUALS; to find things that make you unique so that you stand out from the crowd. We tend to think about ourselves more- a type of "I" attitude. No conformity. Just express yourself how you want.
END RESULT: hard for us to relate; we don't see life in this aspect or perspective.
DRESS AT THE WOMEN'S UNIVERSITY: These ladies have some funky fashions, it's ridiculous. They all wear itty-bitty skirts that are usually made of lace tiers or tiny little shorts that are sometimes invisible because their top is long. It is trendy to wear black knee-high hose to cover part of the leg. High heels always. a lot of black eye make-up too. Everytime I was in the bathroom I saw at least one girl running her black eye liner around her eye. Still shocked by the short attire. They probably figure, hey what the heck- wear what you want now because once you start working you become one of many boxed into a certain look. When they were going through the lower levels of school they wore uniforms, were prohibited to wear any make-up or dye their hair at all. See, strict rules. And I thought my grade school's rules were strict.
FAMILY & RELIGION: Family seems to be really tight-knit. A lot of the girls at the university actually still live at home. They commute to school. More emphasis is placed on family closeness. Kids are everywhere; they are my favorite! They have the cutest faces. Women tend to have children at a later age than most women in America. They also wait until their 30's or so to get married. Probably a good reccomendation for couples in the states. Religion prominance is nothing of what it is in the U.S. Sachiko said that she doesn't practice any religion- wasn't brought up with it. She did say that their is some Chistianity and definately Buddism. Hmm... somehow this doesn't really seem to strange to me, yet so different from the religious environment I was raised in. Actually, in one of our classroom sessions (Dr. Fox's Lesson) the girls said that when they die they just want to be remembered as nice people.
Day 4 (5/21) TOKYO
KIMONO SHOP: We started our day by riding the MRT to Nakkano to go to one of Charlie's friends' Kimono shop. I really didn't spend much time there because the store was super small adn I did not want to buy one anyways. So we shopped and found a great store that had all clothes for 525 yen, way cheap! They actually had some cute stuff so I ended up buying a pretty little dress.
EDO MUSEUM: Much better than the museum in Taiwan. It had real-life models and stages of traditional Japanese houses, towns, etc. It was more hands-on, so I think everyone enjoyed it much more. Everything was so interesting to look at that it actually made me want to learn about it further. They had a couple cool things that you could do like carry a wooden rod across the back of your neck that had two heavy water buckets on either side. It was intended to give you a test to see how it was to carry something like that.
OH SUMO!!!!: The sumo tournament was held at a really nice venue behind the Edo Museum. I thought it was so cool! These men are utterly HUGE; fatty but somehow muscular too. One thing that I didn't expect is the lengthyness of each adn every round. These guys go in and out of the ring a zillion times before actually fighting. Each time they perform a different ceremonial act. They clap their hands to let the gods know they are ready to fight, then they throw salt on the ring to purify and protect themselves from evil. It is really neat to see it in real life. When the guys get thrown out of the ring, sometimes they get thrown into the people in the front rows...SCARY! The entire lower level is flat seating for the audience to sit on the floor and watch.
DINNER IN SHINJUKU: Restaurant with private rooms. This was really interesting. No Shoes; feet under table in the ground. I got edamame and a margarita pizza that was made on a fajita; it was excellent; for once, some food that looked appetizing. Man, you never know what you are getting yourself into with food over here. Most of the time its a surprise!
EDO MUSEUM: Much better than the museum in Taiwan. It had real-life models and stages of traditional Japanese houses, towns, etc. It was more hands-on, so I think everyone enjoyed it much more. Everything was so interesting to look at that it actually made me want to learn about it further. They had a couple cool things that you could do like carry a wooden rod across the back of your neck that had two heavy water buckets on either side. It was intended to give you a test to see how it was to carry something like that.
OH SUMO!!!!: The sumo tournament was held at a really nice venue behind the Edo Museum. I thought it was so cool! These men are utterly HUGE; fatty but somehow muscular too. One thing that I didn't expect is the lengthyness of each adn every round. These guys go in and out of the ring a zillion times before actually fighting. Each time they perform a different ceremonial act. They clap their hands to let the gods know they are ready to fight, then they throw salt on the ring to purify and protect themselves from evil. It is really neat to see it in real life. When the guys get thrown out of the ring, sometimes they get thrown into the people in the front rows...SCARY! The entire lower level is flat seating for the audience to sit on the floor and watch.
DINNER IN SHINJUKU: Restaurant with private rooms. This was really interesting. No Shoes; feet under table in the ground. I got edamame and a margarita pizza that was made on a fajita; it was excellent; for once, some food that looked appetizing. Man, you never know what you are getting yourself into with food over here. Most of the time its a surprise!
Day 3 (5/20) TOKYO
My day started with a metro ride to Asakusa, which is a shrine to the gods in an old traditional Japanese neighborhood. We went through a cute strip of markets all along the sides of the shrine, purchasing gifts as we saw them. Next we went to Yoyogi Park right next to our hostile. It was probably the best day in Japan thus far. It was total serenity, we enjoyed living to the fullest. As we layed out in the grassy meadows, we found it interesting to people watch. We saw so many men in the park wearing suits (they wear suits 24/7) as well as seeing a woman riding a bicycle in heels with a baby on the back. Dang! We couldn't ge over that. They also seem to love and domesticate dogs in the same way we do; much different from Taiwan. There was a guy who was shooting park pictures that asked us if he could take our picture...so of course we said sure! We thought that was great- maybe we would be in an article or something, who knows. Teh park was so serene adn relaxing. At this point in the trip we really needed that. The park was also better than any park I have ever been into in the states. It was huge- with rolling hills, longer grasses, free growing trees, and plenty of bikers. At one point we heard beautiful tunes and saw two people playing flute in the grass. There was also a buddist man that sat nearby us in the grass, indian style, smoking his pipe and enjoying the environment. Perfect.
DINNER IN ROPPONGI: dinner at outback was delicious, but we found that since the waiters do not make additional tips (tipping in Japan is offensive) they are not as attentive as we would have liked, but we enjoyed each other's company and the food. Having something that reminds you of home is phenomenal.
DINNER IN ROPPONGI: dinner at outback was delicious, but we found that since the waiters do not make additional tips (tipping in Japan is offensive) they are not as attentive as we would have liked, but we enjoyed each other's company and the food. Having something that reminds you of home is phenomenal.
Day 2 (5/19) TOKYO
Tuesday. First stop is the all girls university. We listened to a translated speech from the woman president. She basically only talked about the swine flu- but overall it went well and she was grateful to have us as guests. She gave us a really gracious gift: a decorative towel that is used for wrapping gifts and a student designed notepad. Charlie made a speech in Japanese and it really impressed everyone. We got to observe a Japanese Tea Ceremony class as well as a calligraphy class. Most of the symbols were transformed from Chinese characters. A few of us got to participate in this event including myself and it was interesting. All of the Japanese classrooms are extremely quiet compared to U.S. classroom settings. The students generally don't ask questions in class-- they are so quiet! The classrooms are really nice too. All rooms have sliding doors and big windows that span the entire wall showcasing the city. Sounds like Walker COB right? Ha!
ERNEST & YOUNG: Top 5 in accounting firms. At this point everyone was exhausted. We had 3 or 4 sleepers during the meeting and one playing on a blackberry. It seemed a little rude. Tom, the executive, gave a brief overview of the company, current economic situation; real casual, and he also had a finance/banking guy and a Nissan guy from Holland there to talk to us as well. It really wasn't as informative as I would have expected, but it was still helpful and I definately learn something new at each company visit. Next, Tom made reservations for us at a restaurant that George Bush ate at when he was in Tokyo and also a scene in the movie Kill Bill was replicated after this specific restaurant...how unique!! He bought everyone 2 rounds of beer and bought everyone's meal (we each threw in 1000 yen to help.) The meal was tapas, so we continuously got served small dish after small dish. It was incredibly fancy Japanese food. I sat at the end of the table by Jessie and reallly engaged in some good conversations with her. She has traveled all around the globe adn said that Tokyo is her favorite. She was very insightful and was really willing to help me circle places on my metro map that would be good to go to. After our extravagant dinner, Tom said he would take us out to a fun bar, so we ended up at a place that had extravagant decor with big red leather circular booths adn shiny black walls/floor. He was absolutely ridiculous- throwing 10,000 yen on the table fo rus to take a taxi back; he even bought us all a round of beers. We danced like crazy and had a super fun time. Tom definately started getting wild, making silly faces and dancing like nuts...and he's like my dad's age! Riding home was interesting too- Jake went up to two taxis and couldn't figure out why they wouldn't take us. Then I ran up to the cab ahead of those two and the guy accepted. We came to realize that the first two cabs let the first guy in line get the first business. How nice; they are very courteous with stuff like that.
ERNEST & YOUNG: Top 5 in accounting firms. At this point everyone was exhausted. We had 3 or 4 sleepers during the meeting and one playing on a blackberry. It seemed a little rude. Tom, the executive, gave a brief overview of the company, current economic situation; real casual, and he also had a finance/banking guy and a Nissan guy from Holland there to talk to us as well. It really wasn't as informative as I would have expected, but it was still helpful and I definately learn something new at each company visit. Next, Tom made reservations for us at a restaurant that George Bush ate at when he was in Tokyo and also a scene in the movie Kill Bill was replicated after this specific restaurant...how unique!! He bought everyone 2 rounds of beer and bought everyone's meal (we each threw in 1000 yen to help.) The meal was tapas, so we continuously got served small dish after small dish. It was incredibly fancy Japanese food. I sat at the end of the table by Jessie and reallly engaged in some good conversations with her. She has traveled all around the globe adn said that Tokyo is her favorite. She was very insightful and was really willing to help me circle places on my metro map that would be good to go to. After our extravagant dinner, Tom said he would take us out to a fun bar, so we ended up at a place that had extravagant decor with big red leather circular booths adn shiny black walls/floor. He was absolutely ridiculous- throwing 10,000 yen on the table fo rus to take a taxi back; he even bought us all a round of beers. We danced like crazy and had a super fun time. Tom definately started getting wild, making silly faces and dancing like nuts...and he's like my dad's age! Riding home was interesting too- Jake went up to two taxis and couldn't figure out why they wouldn't take us. Then I ran up to the cab ahead of those two and the guy accepted. We came to realize that the first two cabs let the first guy in line get the first business. How nice; they are very courteous with stuff like that.
Day 1 (5/18) TOKYO
1st Day in Japan!
Meiji Shrine for 20 minutes.
Off to all girls university (only princesses from Royal families).
The metro is much more complex.
At the college they were so worried about us being from America with the swine flu starting in Mexico that they made us wash our hands immediately and then wipe with an antibacterial wipe, then use purell. Man, they are really cautious and we almost felt like they did not want us there. We had lunch with the students and the girls were so sweet. Kyle and I sat together with two girls that attend the university, one was from Korea and she made me crack up because she could not understand a word that Kyle was saying (he has a deep voice) and she told me that his voice seemed so far away. For some reason I found it histerical since I could see both sides. We then did (or actually just observed) a flower making class that is required for their Japanese culture courses. We were sad that they wouldn't allow us to work with the students.
TRADITIONAL JAPANESE DINNER: Yum! We ate nabe, which is a pot of stew stuff that is served family style and everyone shares. We all got hot Saki- it was so exciting because we got to eat with Japanese friends: Erica, Utaka, Kosay, and Sachiko. They took us out to an English Hub afterwards and partyed with us. We learned a lot from them and found that they make "Japanese-English" kind of like we incorporate some short spanish words into our vocabulary...funny huh! I saw two girls that had a Japanese conversation and then said "bye-bye" to each other. The Hub was fun and when we left they totally made directions for us to be sure we could make it home. Utaka actually studyed abroad in Augusta, GA and will be back this August to stay with a friend in Lenior! Sweet. Hopefully we will all meet up and show him some of Boone. They had battery powered mobile chargers for their cell phones which is way cool. Why don't we have that?
METRO ISSUES: James tried to sneek his way on to the metro without a ticket and the guard caught him- oh no! Thank goodness he let us give money to James to buy a ticket, but he said, "You are bad guy...No good!" Whew!
Meiji Shrine for 20 minutes.
Off to all girls university (only princesses from Royal families).
The metro is much more complex.
At the college they were so worried about us being from America with the swine flu starting in Mexico that they made us wash our hands immediately and then wipe with an antibacterial wipe, then use purell. Man, they are really cautious and we almost felt like they did not want us there. We had lunch with the students and the girls were so sweet. Kyle and I sat together with two girls that attend the university, one was from Korea and she made me crack up because she could not understand a word that Kyle was saying (he has a deep voice) and she told me that his voice seemed so far away. For some reason I found it histerical since I could see both sides. We then did (or actually just observed) a flower making class that is required for their Japanese culture courses. We were sad that they wouldn't allow us to work with the students.
TRADITIONAL JAPANESE DINNER: Yum! We ate nabe, which is a pot of stew stuff that is served family style and everyone shares. We all got hot Saki- it was so exciting because we got to eat with Japanese friends: Erica, Utaka, Kosay, and Sachiko. They took us out to an English Hub afterwards and partyed with us. We learned a lot from them and found that they make "Japanese-English" kind of like we incorporate some short spanish words into our vocabulary...funny huh! I saw two girls that had a Japanese conversation and then said "bye-bye" to each other. The Hub was fun and when we left they totally made directions for us to be sure we could make it home. Utaka actually studyed abroad in Augusta, GA and will be back this August to stay with a friend in Lenior! Sweet. Hopefully we will all meet up and show him some of Boone. They had battery powered mobile chargers for their cell phones which is way cool. Why don't we have that?
METRO ISSUES: James tried to sneek his way on to the metro without a ticket and the guard caught him- oh no! Thank goodness he let us give money to James to buy a ticket, but he said, "You are bad guy...No good!" Whew!
(5/17/09)
FLY TO TOKYO, JAPAN
Long Day.
Drank red wine on JAL.
Flight attendants are sweet and well maintained; they even change outfits when they serve food!
Influenza worries are annoying.
Long Day.
Drank red wine on JAL.
Flight attendants are sweet and well maintained; they even change outfits when they serve food!
Influenza worries are annoying.
Saturday, June 13, 2009
Day8 (5/16) Taipei
SHOP IN DAAN: Hanuel and I decided to shop some before our 2 hour massage at @ 2pm. We hopped on the MRT and took the blue line to the brown line, got off at Daan. We didn't have a lot of success with finding clothes because they were all really expensive, but we still enjoyed our time and saw the guy from Joy Enterprise (Malyasia) in the coffee shop and talked with him further. He said that if we were ever back in Taiwan to stop by the office. He is so caring and kind in his manners and representation. Next we took the taxi to the spa for our massage appointment...
THAI MASSAGE: The interior was so luxurious, Wow! We were first served tea and cookies- got us relaxed and ready for more. Next the ladies washed and scrubbed our feet in big water bowls. They also lotioned us and rubbed/slapped our feet. This felt amazing since we have been walking, walking, running, running. They slipped our feet into slippers and took us to the relaxing massage room. Jenna, Sally, Angela, and I got to all lay together which was great. We got to wear little pajama sets that were so soft and comfortable that we were asking if we could buy them. The Thai massage was really unusual compared to an American massages. The worked on us for 2 hours by using their elbows and body to work our body. Some of the motions kind of hurt but it was really good overall- It got me all streched out! Afterwards we recieved more tea and sweet beans. The apples were salty tasting though, weird.
FANCY BUFFET DINNER: All you can eat, All you can drink! So much fun-Charlie's brother Bruce and his girlfriend were there so we introduced ourselves...they were super nice to us too! Most of the food was freightening at first glance, but I tried a lot and was happily surprised to find that most of it was really good. We enjoyed ourselves and the atmosphere. Really really fancy and chic decor.
BACK TO NIGHT MARKET: Mac store was a significant amount cheaper than in the U.S. It was so crowded that you basically couldn't even walk. I rode home on the MRT alone and was quite successful.
THAI MASSAGE: The interior was so luxurious, Wow! We were first served tea and cookies- got us relaxed and ready for more. Next the ladies washed and scrubbed our feet in big water bowls. They also lotioned us and rubbed/slapped our feet. This felt amazing since we have been walking, walking, running, running. They slipped our feet into slippers and took us to the relaxing massage room. Jenna, Sally, Angela, and I got to all lay together which was great. We got to wear little pajama sets that were so soft and comfortable that we were asking if we could buy them. The Thai massage was really unusual compared to an American massages. The worked on us for 2 hours by using their elbows and body to work our body. Some of the motions kind of hurt but it was really good overall- It got me all streched out! Afterwards we recieved more tea and sweet beans. The apples were salty tasting though, weird.
FANCY BUFFET DINNER: All you can eat, All you can drink! So much fun-Charlie's brother Bruce and his girlfriend were there so we introduced ourselves...they were super nice to us too! Most of the food was freightening at first glance, but I tried a lot and was happily surprised to find that most of it was really good. We enjoyed ourselves and the atmosphere. Really really fancy and chic decor.
BACK TO NIGHT MARKET: Mac store was a significant amount cheaper than in the U.S. It was so crowded that you basically couldn't even walk. I rode home on the MRT alone and was quite successful.
Day 7 (5/15) Taipei
3rd BUSINESS VISIT AGV PRODUCTS: Beverages, pickles, and sauces. We got to tour the facility and distribution center-immaculate! Cleanest manufacturing facility I could ever imagine. We also got to test various drinks they produce like Honey Tomato Juice, Oatmeal Juice, Barley, and Green Tea too. Very tastey! The entire presentation was well-done and we also got served a turkey/rice/vegetable lunch. Their goal as a company is to provide beverages that provide anti-oxidants and and lower cholesterol. The Taiwanese are hung up on health, longevity, etc.
NATIONAL CHUNG-CHEN UNIVERSITY: This was definately one of the most influential events we had done. We got to interact with (first-hand) the students and eat, make a craft, and exchange gifts. We also did a campus tour and found a large pond in the center of campus that was man-made to resemble the shape of Taiwan. And the bridge that crosses over is an urban legend to couples that cross it together, saying that they will break up soon. Edward (my pen pal) was absolutely hilarious! He was the funniest English speaking asian I had ever met. He made the presentation exciting and got everyone laughing. I really enjoyed talking with them just as if they had already been my friends. Beatrice was a sweetheart too. She was super teeny! She also spoke really well English and we seemed to get along great. The third partner I had was a little shy, however, I don't think she knew Englilsh as good as the other two, so she mainly just listened. I was exhausted from the long, intense week but I found myself instantly revived and re-energized yes! They both were incredible kind and accomodating. They told me that the difference between China and Japan is that the Chinese are very open and accepting of other cultures; they love our pop music and seem to be very inticed by western culture, yet they still practice their own traditions/customs. On the other hand, (apparently) the Japanese believe that their culture is the best and you have to adapt to them. That's funny...sounds like the American culture, right? I never really understood the concept of ethnocentrism until now. Wow. Personally, this trip is a gigantic eye opener. One of Angela's partners was so cute and when we told him a short story he responded with "What a pity!" Ha! I thought that was so formal. It was so sad to leave them; I wanted to stay.
NATIONAL CHUNG-CHEN UNIVERSITY: This was definately one of the most influential events we had done. We got to interact with (first-hand) the students and eat, make a craft, and exchange gifts. We also did a campus tour and found a large pond in the center of campus that was man-made to resemble the shape of Taiwan. And the bridge that crosses over is an urban legend to couples that cross it together, saying that they will break up soon. Edward (my pen pal) was absolutely hilarious! He was the funniest English speaking asian I had ever met. He made the presentation exciting and got everyone laughing. I really enjoyed talking with them just as if they had already been my friends. Beatrice was a sweetheart too. She was super teeny! She also spoke really well English and we seemed to get along great. The third partner I had was a little shy, however, I don't think she knew Englilsh as good as the other two, so she mainly just listened. I was exhausted from the long, intense week but I found myself instantly revived and re-energized yes! They both were incredible kind and accomodating. They told me that the difference between China and Japan is that the Chinese are very open and accepting of other cultures; they love our pop music and seem to be very inticed by western culture, yet they still practice their own traditions/customs. On the other hand, (apparently) the Japanese believe that their culture is the best and you have to adapt to them. That's funny...sounds like the American culture, right? I never really understood the concept of ethnocentrism until now. Wow. Personally, this trip is a gigantic eye opener. One of Angela's partners was so cute and when we told him a short story he responded with "What a pity!" Ha! I thought that was so formal. It was so sad to leave them; I wanted to stay.
Day 6 (5/14) Taipei
2nd BUSINESS VISIT JOY ENTERPRISE: We first got an English lesson from a Chinese teacher; we had to pretend that we were 8 years old; it was so fun! We got to see first hand how they teach young Chinese children English. They also publish an entire series of textbooks and learning materials including CD-Roms, flash cards, monthly magazines, etc. One of the co-founders came in to meet us- she bowed at the door; her presence actually made my eyes start to water- she had such a warm, powerful, wise aura about her. We also got to talk with a guy who works as the playwright & publisher. He was born in Malaysia and shared his experiences with us. Interesting. Inspiring. Jenny was pregnant and due any day, yet she was still working, still taking classes- impressive. The Chinese are hard workers and very self-disciplined.
NATIONAL TAIWAN UNIVERSITY: Case discussion with students at NTU. Meredith and I were in a group with two NTU students named Anson and Yule. Yule was very professional-even passed out his business card. They were both fun to talk to, as well as extremely smart. Too bad we had to talk about OLPC. We found out that they had volunteered to do the case discussion with us. We were thinking no way- they had to get some type of extra credit or incentive, right?! But they surely did not. They wanted to participate. It demonstrates (once again) how much lazier Americans are. The average college student takes 21 credit hours...Insane!!
CALLIGRAPHY LESSON: We first had a short introduction to it through PowerPoint adn they spoke English perfectly. We got to write a word/phrase down then have one of the professionals write the Chinese characters on pretty paper for us to keep. I got EARTH. Next we got to practice on grid paper, but it was difficult. This takes years and years of practicing to perfect.
TAIPEI 101: We all met up with one of the NTU students named Sophia to go for dinner and to Taipei 101 (tallest building in the world). We ate dinner at a Japanese restaurant/bar. I sat next to Sopia, so it gave me a chance to chat with her and ask questions. She was so kind to us, adn I was stunned at the fact that she was willing to share her free time with us. I found out some interesting facts like in China the year is actually 98 (2009 minus 1911=98), but they know 2009 as well and can go by both years. The food was really good and we watched the cook make the food on an open grill. All the meals were served with seaweed salad and I was satisfied! Taipei 101 has the world's fastest elevator. It took us from the fifth floor to the 89th floor in 36 seconds- high speed. My ears popped right off the bat. The elevator guide could speak 3 languages: Chinese, Japanese, English. Even Sophia was tri-lingual, speaking Chinese, English, and German. The views from the 91st floor of Taipei 101 were gorgeous...city lights for as far as you could see. There was a huge farris wheel in the distance that Sophia said was the most famous. It lit up with multi-colored lights and was beautiful at night. The Grand Damper is a massive ball at the top of the building that helps ease the swaying, and prevents the building from snapping off from wind. Fun night!!
NATIONAL TAIWAN UNIVERSITY: Case discussion with students at NTU. Meredith and I were in a group with two NTU students named Anson and Yule. Yule was very professional-even passed out his business card. They were both fun to talk to, as well as extremely smart. Too bad we had to talk about OLPC. We found out that they had volunteered to do the case discussion with us. We were thinking no way- they had to get some type of extra credit or incentive, right?! But they surely did not. They wanted to participate. It demonstrates (once again) how much lazier Americans are. The average college student takes 21 credit hours...Insane!!
CALLIGRAPHY LESSON: We first had a short introduction to it through PowerPoint adn they spoke English perfectly. We got to write a word/phrase down then have one of the professionals write the Chinese characters on pretty paper for us to keep. I got EARTH. Next we got to practice on grid paper, but it was difficult. This takes years and years of practicing to perfect.
TAIPEI 101: We all met up with one of the NTU students named Sophia to go for dinner and to Taipei 101 (tallest building in the world). We ate dinner at a Japanese restaurant/bar. I sat next to Sopia, so it gave me a chance to chat with her and ask questions. She was so kind to us, adn I was stunned at the fact that she was willing to share her free time with us. I found out some interesting facts like in China the year is actually 98 (2009 minus 1911=98), but they know 2009 as well and can go by both years. The food was really good and we watched the cook make the food on an open grill. All the meals were served with seaweed salad and I was satisfied! Taipei 101 has the world's fastest elevator. It took us from the fifth floor to the 89th floor in 36 seconds- high speed. My ears popped right off the bat. The elevator guide could speak 3 languages: Chinese, Japanese, English. Even Sophia was tri-lingual, speaking Chinese, English, and German. The views from the 91st floor of Taipei 101 were gorgeous...city lights for as far as you could see. There was a huge farris wheel in the distance that Sophia said was the most famous. It lit up with multi-colored lights and was beautiful at night. The Grand Damper is a massive ball at the top of the building that helps ease the swaying, and prevents the building from snapping off from wind. Fun night!!
Day 5 (5/13) Taipei
WHITE HOUSE VISIT: We unfortunately did not get to meet the President because he had prior engagements, but we took a tour and it was kind of rough. It was too hot, too long, too drawn out. Bless his heart the tour guide spoke three languages (Chinese, German, English), however he was really hard to understand.
CANADIANS: We ran into two Canadians on the road on our way back to Hotel Flowers. They were trying to work in Taiwan as native English speakers. We invited them to get Bubble Tea with us and to meet Charlie because we thought he could help them in some way. We had a brief discussion about the OLPC (one laptop per child) Harvard Case Study, and drank the tea. The Bubble Tea is definately unusual. It tastes like super sweet tea and has round chewy/gooey balls at the bottom you suck up through a wide straw. I could maybe get used to it if I drank it more often.
SHILIN NIGHT MARKET: Hanuel, Megan and I decided to go back to the night market to further explore. We did an excellent job navigating the MRT and we met a group of Americans from the University of South Carolina that were studying abroad in Taiwan for two weeks. How crazy! They were really nice and we talked with them for quite some time. One of the guys was actually from Arora, Ohio, close to my hometown- what a small world! Their hotel was next to the night market, so we went our separate ways. We had a blast at the night market because it wasn't too crowded and we just tried on clothes and bought stuff. The girls at the shops would say "Oh so pretty, so cute..." or "Discount, Discount. Only you, only you." They are all helpful though and want you to buy. After we missed the MRT closing at midnight, we decided to take a taxi and it ended up only being 150NT, which is maybe $4USD...really cheap!!
CANADIANS: We ran into two Canadians on the road on our way back to Hotel Flowers. They were trying to work in Taiwan as native English speakers. We invited them to get Bubble Tea with us and to meet Charlie because we thought he could help them in some way. We had a brief discussion about the OLPC (one laptop per child) Harvard Case Study, and drank the tea. The Bubble Tea is definately unusual. It tastes like super sweet tea and has round chewy/gooey balls at the bottom you suck up through a wide straw. I could maybe get used to it if I drank it more often.
SHILIN NIGHT MARKET: Hanuel, Megan and I decided to go back to the night market to further explore. We did an excellent job navigating the MRT and we met a group of Americans from the University of South Carolina that were studying abroad in Taiwan for two weeks. How crazy! They were really nice and we talked with them for quite some time. One of the guys was actually from Arora, Ohio, close to my hometown- what a small world! Their hotel was next to the night market, so we went our separate ways. We had a blast at the night market because it wasn't too crowded and we just tried on clothes and bought stuff. The girls at the shops would say "Oh so pretty, so cute..." or "Discount, Discount. Only you, only you." They are all helpful though and want you to buy. After we missed the MRT closing at midnight, we decided to take a taxi and it ended up only being 150NT, which is maybe $4USD...really cheap!!
Thursday, June 11, 2009
Day 4 (5/12) Taipei
First Business Visit: GIANT BICYCLES. We had an amazing tour of the actual manufacturing factory. Everyone was in an assembly line working on a specific job. Hot atmosphere. Although I was impressed with the cleanliness of the factory. As we questioned our tour guide throughout the factory, we learned that each of the workers rotate jobs so that they can experience different aspects of the bicycle making process. These GIANT frames are insanely light; pricey too. They gave us a formal presentation and answered questions. Once again I was very impressed with their English. The main guide was very friendly with us and chatted outside after the visit was over. I asked him all about his living situations and work conditions; interestingly enough, the company pays for his living arrangements (similar to a dorm), as well as his meals. He uses his GIANT bicycle to travel to and from work too! Awesome.
Lunch was a traditional style Chinese lunch with a huge circular table that has an elevated spin top in the middle. All food is served in large portions to the center of the table and everyone spins the top and serves themselves. We ate fried rice, beef & shrimp wontons, noodles, the food just kept coming. I was really suprised to find the meal delicious, everyone got seconds and thirds. We then ate at a local place called Monster Ice, which featured this stuff called Mango ice: mangos, vanilla ice cream, and whip all over shaved ice...YUMMY!
Saxaphone Museum: the owner's daughter and Megan played a song together on saxaphone, it was the song from Pocahontas "Colors of the Wind." They both did such a good job.
Greenhouse: The flowers were beautiful; huge orchids in any color imaginable. Lovely. I bought 3 packets of seeds: chinese pink, treasure flower, and purple balloon flower, because I thought they all were interesting. Yet, after I purchased them I was informed that it is technically illegal to transport agricultural seeds overseas, but oh well- I figured I would just hide them in my clothes and if they wanted to take them at the airport they would.
Love Motel: Exotic & Secretive. Park cars in a garage below the room; no one will ever know you were ever there. Charlie said jokingly, "Good for affair." The room was enormous with a huge pool with elephant fountains, laying jacuzzi, wooden spa bench with steam jets that spray down on you, massage chairs, loungers, and fish inside planted displays in the bathroom. We played Karoke all night and had a blast!!!
Bar: We weren't able to get in at the first place we went because NO shorts/sandals allowed. We ended up at an empty bar that was really snazzy. We enjoyed each others company, yet I wish we could have been around more locals at this bar, it would have changed our experience drastically. At one point Angela and I went outside to sit for a bit and found two lonely dogs. We tried to get them to let us pet them but they never allowed us to get close. Apparently, people in Taiwan do not domesticate dogs quite like we do. They allow them to roam freely, giving them the ablilty to pursue their own lives, therefore they aren't used to being treated and groomed like our dogs. Plus, they all look extremely strange. Some have no hair and weird ears. Our bartender's name was Allison and she definately was kind and patient with all of us.
Lunch was a traditional style Chinese lunch with a huge circular table that has an elevated spin top in the middle. All food is served in large portions to the center of the table and everyone spins the top and serves themselves. We ate fried rice, beef & shrimp wontons, noodles, the food just kept coming. I was really suprised to find the meal delicious, everyone got seconds and thirds. We then ate at a local place called Monster Ice, which featured this stuff called Mango ice: mangos, vanilla ice cream, and whip all over shaved ice...YUMMY!
Saxaphone Museum: the owner's daughter and Megan played a song together on saxaphone, it was the song from Pocahontas "Colors of the Wind." They both did such a good job.
Greenhouse: The flowers were beautiful; huge orchids in any color imaginable. Lovely. I bought 3 packets of seeds: chinese pink, treasure flower, and purple balloon flower, because I thought they all were interesting. Yet, after I purchased them I was informed that it is technically illegal to transport agricultural seeds overseas, but oh well- I figured I would just hide them in my clothes and if they wanted to take them at the airport they would.
Love Motel: Exotic & Secretive. Park cars in a garage below the room; no one will ever know you were ever there. Charlie said jokingly, "Good for affair." The room was enormous with a huge pool with elephant fountains, laying jacuzzi, wooden spa bench with steam jets that spray down on you, massage chairs, loungers, and fish inside planted displays in the bathroom. We played Karoke all night and had a blast!!!
Bar: We weren't able to get in at the first place we went because NO shorts/sandals allowed. We ended up at an empty bar that was really snazzy. We enjoyed each others company, yet I wish we could have been around more locals at this bar, it would have changed our experience drastically. At one point Angela and I went outside to sit for a bit and found two lonely dogs. We tried to get them to let us pet them but they never allowed us to get close. Apparently, people in Taiwan do not domesticate dogs quite like we do. They allow them to roam freely, giving them the ablilty to pursue their own lives, therefore they aren't used to being treated and groomed like our dogs. Plus, they all look extremely strange. Some have no hair and weird ears. Our bartender's name was Allison and she definately was kind and patient with all of us.
Day 3 (5/11) Taipei
When we left Hotel Flowers we went to a small town full of little market shops with cobblestone roads. I easily get carried away in these shops. One old man could speak some English and told me he would be a translator...I ended up chatting with him for quite some time and missed the group going to make pottery in one of the shops. Bad move- there was no way I was going to be able to figure out where they went. Thankfully, Charlie came back for me...what a relief! I am learning quickly that time is of the essence. Be on time or you don't go. Pottery making was a great time; this is something I have wanted to do since I was younger. The actual spinning of the clay is the best part. The wet clay is so malleable and morphed quickly. The men that worked at the shop were very helpful to us and got our clay formations started, and fixed them when we destroyed them. "Slowly, Slowly" the guy told me. Charlie wrote out the Chinese symbols for LONGEVITY and that is what my pottery lesson was for me- an insight to maintaining myself and to continually grow through new experiences. I carved those letters & picked a blue/green fade for the color.
When we got to "Great Roots" spa and hot springs, we put on the swim caps provided and jumped in. All the pools had different temperatures/concepts. One pool was oxygenated water, one salt water, some were massage jets and spouts, as well as freezing cold pools that pictured ice cubes on the display sign. SUPER RELAXING. So much for business trip, right? I had a good conversation with Josh about getting an MBA, graduate schools, work experience, etc. I am at the point where it is time to make a decision, either take the GMAT and apply for graduate schools or prepare for interviews and start job searching...hmm...he has given me a good feel of Appalachian's MBA program and what it offers.
Back to LISHE to select our 10 pictures for our picture book. Once again, the ladies working are sweet as can be and seem to like Charlie- (he has excellent connections).
Evening Shopping: Sally bought a digital camera for 3500NT = $107.ooUSD a screaming deal. Maybe I should check out some laptop prices?
We took the MRT alone today and we managed well. I was really pleased with our ability to catch on and get the hang of it.
When we got to "Great Roots" spa and hot springs, we put on the swim caps provided and jumped in. All the pools had different temperatures/concepts. One pool was oxygenated water, one salt water, some were massage jets and spouts, as well as freezing cold pools that pictured ice cubes on the display sign. SUPER RELAXING. So much for business trip, right? I had a good conversation with Josh about getting an MBA, graduate schools, work experience, etc. I am at the point where it is time to make a decision, either take the GMAT and apply for graduate schools or prepare for interviews and start job searching...hmm...he has given me a good feel of Appalachian's MBA program and what it offers.
Back to LISHE to select our 10 pictures for our picture book. Once again, the ladies working are sweet as can be and seem to like Charlie- (he has excellent connections).
Evening Shopping: Sally bought a digital camera for 3500NT = $107.ooUSD a screaming deal. Maybe I should check out some laptop prices?
We took the MRT alone today and we managed well. I was really pleased with our ability to catch on and get the hang of it.
Day 2 Taipei
On our ride to Fulong Beach, I observed the tall buildings that many Taiwanese live in. Most look older and partially run down. I can only imagine that they have very limited space, a small amount of windows, and some have small balconies that are barred off completely. It is obvious that these people are not materialistic. Everyone line dries their clothes, so you see hangers from every possible place. Plants are everywhere too, they must enjoy decorating their porches.
Little huts are on the sides of some moutains...they look like miniature traditional Chinese buildings. I later come to find that this is where they bury people. So each one is like a gravestone or monument.
I really enjoy being the minority (for once).
Some children laugh at us because they are not used to seeing Americans. They are so cute! Asian kids are maybe even cuter than American kids.
At this point I've only got one phrase down pat, "Shea-Shea" which is thank you. However, it seems every time we attempt Chinese, they always try to respond in English.
Fulong beach is practically paradise on earth. A beach with imported sand, mountain ranges surrounding you, salty water from the Pacific Ocean, and sand bars that create pretty water illlusions. This is one the the most beautiful scenes...as I sit on a grass mat on top the sand I take in the feeling of the environment around me, appreciating life and its blessings.
I have heard Americans claim that some foreigners look 'the same' especially asians. THIS IS NOT TRUE. They are all very different with different traits and characteristics. I think the difference is that we are used to being around other Americans day after day, but when you pass by hundreds of thousands of asians, you begin to recognize.
Little huts are on the sides of some moutains...they look like miniature traditional Chinese buildings. I later come to find that this is where they bury people. So each one is like a gravestone or monument.
I really enjoy being the minority (for once).
Some children laugh at us because they are not used to seeing Americans. They are so cute! Asian kids are maybe even cuter than American kids.
At this point I've only got one phrase down pat, "Shea-Shea" which is thank you. However, it seems every time we attempt Chinese, they always try to respond in English.
Fulong beach is practically paradise on earth. A beach with imported sand, mountain ranges surrounding you, salty water from the Pacific Ocean, and sand bars that create pretty water illlusions. This is one the the most beautiful scenes...as I sit on a grass mat on top the sand I take in the feeling of the environment around me, appreciating life and its blessings.
I have heard Americans claim that some foreigners look 'the same' especially asians. THIS IS NOT TRUE. They are all very different with different traits and characteristics. I think the difference is that we are used to being around other Americans day after day, but when you pass by hundreds of thousands of asians, you begin to recognize.
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Day 1 in Taipei
The day starts with breakfast at Hotel Flowers (the hard boiled egg is the only good part). We all receive our MRT easy pass cards and start to get acquainted with Taiwan's public transportation system. I learned really quick that if you do not push to get into the train, the doors close fast leaving you behind. Danny, Chad, Angela, and I actually get left behind at one stop; we learned our lesson quick! First stop of the day is LISHE for photo shoots. We all get to choose two outfits; one formal wedding dress and one traditional kimono. We had so much fun with this and all the girls working were so patient and kind to us. We got pampered all day with green tea, hair-dos, and make-up...even the guys! Angela and I did our first photo shoot together and we both found that even though we couldn't speak Chinese, we could partially understand what the photographer wanted us to do. Plus, most of them knew a small bit of English which was a big help. As we walked around later in park we found that a lot of people wanted to test their English on us and would say simple phrases to us.
We take street buses to a pottery museum that was surrounded by mountains and beautiful buildings. There was a music show starting at 6pm in the museum, so a few of us spent most of our time enjoying the traditional tunes of native instruments. The instruments looked like a guitar piano board constructed all of wood. Beautiful. It was quite impressive. It's strange to hear the Chinese speakers and their introductions to the music, yet we clapped when everyone else did and easily followed along.
Night Market: The Shilin Night Market is quite an interesting place. The smells are intense. Contains fair rides, food, games, arcades, shopping, etc. The food was the strangest things I've ever seen; a squid or octopus that was sliced and served on a stick...YUCK! And along with that you may find an occasional cockroach, Yikes.
Mistake: I buy a hand-knit hat from a woman in a small corner shop that is packed from top to bottom with stuff. She used an expensive tweed yarn to create the hat and said it was 2100NT, so me and Kyle tried to bargain her down. Sadly, at this point I didn't quite understand the currency conversion so I spent 1800NT for the hat (got her to lower the price a little) which I thought was like $28 USD, but actually ended up being around $56 USD...uh oh! It was okay though, I couldn't trade that first time experience for anything, plus I loved the hat. SMELLS: I've barely been in Taipei for that long and already the smells are starting to get to me. I know these smells are like nothing I've ever smelled before in my entire life. It is a crazy combo of sewage, dirt, weird foods and the different oil they cook with, and china-made products. Really its unexplainable. Makes my stomach sick--to the point of feeling the "throw-up" sickness in my tummy. Oh man, this is something that will take a little getting used to.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
