To Kyoto and back in six easy blocks
As we stepped up to the barely marked threshold, I noted with horror a sign stating, "Kyotofu will be closed this evening for a private function."
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A site for global citizens interested in life, style and the nexus of the two from the POV of a six continent chickAs we stepped up to the barely marked threshold, I noted with horror a sign stating, "Kyotofu will be closed this evening for a private function."
If you're into Asian pop culture, there are certainly two Chans that you would know. One, martial arts film star Jackie Chan. The other, chart-topping singer, Agnes Chan. I've been fortunate enough to meet both, and last night they star-spangled my evening again at a reception in New York to launch the latter Chan's new album, "Forget Yourself" in the US.
Who knew Japan would be the place to pose a serious question as to Jay and my relationship. Was it travel fatigue? Stress? Hanging out with dishy Brazilian artist, Gustavo, the only other person on their own on the guided tour? It turns out the test came from something much closer to Jay heart: the Buddhists.
Continue reading "Japan tests Jay and Tanya's relationship..." »
Friday 6 May, last day in Tokyo and my mission list is long. A 5am start to make it to the Tsukiji Fish Market, scheduled to be moved to some sanitized new location in 2012. But awaking and aching, I decided that I needed sleep more than the experience of a mind-bogglingly endless fish fest.
It's Wednesday of what seems like an awfully long week, packed with meetings, demonstrations, presentations and much discussion. It's fruitful and energizing, and pretty much takes up every waking hour.
1 May ? Today?s an early start and I?m determined to try a different breakfast venue. I hit Mauna Loa, a Hawaiian joint where they apologise to me because all they serve is something called a continental breakfast, ?I am sorry,? the maitre de says. ?But we have only breads.?
30 April ? Today?s set-up day, but I?m determined to use every opportunity to work out so I hit the pool and then head to breakfast. We decide to go to the Hapuna buffet restaurant, which offers a giant number of serving stations offering Western, Chinese and Japanese breakfasts.
29 April ? 13.5 hours later ? a mere middle-distance flip for us South Africans used to the 17.5-plus hour haul to get home ? and the land finally comes into view. We are flying over a country that perfectly reflects its stereotype: industrious, efficient, space saving and ingenious.
It?s 32,0000 feet up, 10:15 PM in New York and 11:15 AM in Tokyo.
In preparation for my upcoming trip to Japan, I've been doing a little research on business etiquette that's revealed some interesting tips for surviving and perhaps, thriving in the culture.
Continue reading "Thinking Japanese, I really think so..." »