Week 11

2 Aug 2014 25 July 2014 <----too tired to write

Every new destination allows me to meet new travellers and encounter revelations. It's especially important for me to be aware of others' point of view as it reminds me that I have so much yet to explore. Listening to the German couple's adventure of leaving their job and travel for a year proved my point. Although each of us are uniquely created, we shouldn't feel privileged in any way because nobody owns us a living. We may have special moments in our lives where we feel that life would be perfect if it stays the same way. Unfortunately, it's not going to happen. The only thing that keeps you sane is knowing what you are doing has meaning for you even if it appears senseless to others.

"I thought we were doing something very special but as we travel to different places, we met many people like us (people who leave their job and travel)" --- Ka IBestman 

My host kindly invited all of us for a Japanese rafting experience.

There is another solo traveller from Hong Kong whom I met in Furano. She conquered cancer and was glowing with health when we met. Brimming with optimism and outwardly approachable, we chatted like old friends. Even though we don't share a dormitory, she was eager to strike conversations with us. 

From left: My sister, Tokyo traveller, me, Hong Kong traveller

From left: Thai traveller, me, my sister, Tokyo traveller

Work would go on as per normal after I leave Kutchan, but we all would have a gaijin (foreigner) friend now.

Karaoke session

Someone had a bit too much drink

I sincerely thank everyone whom I have met during my stay in Japan. It is because of them I am able to travel with a peace of mind. With their inquisitive nature, I am glad to clear their "misconception" of Singapore. Someone asked me if Singapore has trash bins placed one metre apart in the streets. It cracks me up to hear things like these. In comparison to Hokkaido, Singapore does have many trash bins in public but not THAT many! And if you wonder, Yes, they asked about Singlish too.

Chichi

And cheers to Chichi, my host's dog, which I never bond with because he's so attached to my host. At least I see a happy, "free range" dog with lots of fresh food in his diet. Growing up in a no-pet household, knowing Chichi is the closest thing to having a pet dog.

I came to Japan alone but I will return home not just with an exploding luggage but also packed with fond memories.

ただいま。