Blogs from Sasebo, Nagasaki, Japan, Asia

Sunday, 19th May 2013 Still, I was excited to picture myself among the replications of the Dutch windmills and the beautiful houses along the canals. Leg #1: Nagasaki Station >> Huis Ten Bosch Station At the beginning of the day, I boarded the JR Seaside Liner train to Huis Ten Bosch, about an hour ride from Nagasaki Station. Huis Ten Bosch is a family-orientated theme park inspired after the original residence of the Dutch Royal Family of the same name. I chanced upon Huis during my travel research and since my ride was fully paid for by the Japan Rail Pass, I had no qualms about visiting it as a side trip from Nagasaki city. The modern Huis Ten Bosch train station that greeted me upon arrival was an attraction on its own. It's small, it's ... read more

I'm really liking this town, it surprises me how much I can get accomplished here. I'll just say it's my Southern charm, though that's doubtful too. :) I finally have the time to get to know the guys who work for me a little better, so I decide to roll the dice. Am I ready for this? Probably not, but I'm always up for a challenge. Care if I tag along for dinner? "Sure Ma'am, come on." Lots of eyebrows raised. Can L.T. hang? I don't know, the looks just seem to scream at me. These kids have no idea the things I could do in college. It's on!!! They settle on fried rice for dinner, so we go to a nice little restaurant that boasts great gyoza, noodle soups and fried rice. They're not ... read more

Finally made it to Sasebo, Japan. This place is such a culture shock and difference from anything I've ever experienced. It's beauty, racism and efficient work all rolled into one. I guess I'll take the good with the bad though. I heard so many mixed reviews of Japan, but most seemed to agree that they didn't like Sasebo. So, I tried to go in with as much of an open mind as I could muster. We pulled in on a Monday morning, getting to the pilot pick up point at about 8am. For anyone who doesn't know, I'm supposed to go up to the bridge to make sure the guys put up the flags at the right time. Honestly, I'm not needed by any stretch of the imagination, but it's really neat to watch the dance ... read more