Pre Departure.

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So after umming and aaaaing for some time as to whether or not I really wanted to go to Japan I bit the bullet on Friday 17 November. I am booked to depart Sydney, OZ - for Narita, The Land of the Rising Sun on December 4 2006.

I guess there were really a number of factors in me deciding to go. I had applied for a few jobs and not actually heard anything back from them. Realistically most of the jobs I applied for I did not really want - who wants a labouring job? I want to use my brain, it was inactive for so long I honestly prefer the challenge of using it. I was also faced by strong competition - the 20 thousand school leavers that just finished their exams are at cheaper casual rates than me. I applied for a few English Teaching Jobs but I have still heard nothing from them, too slow. Funnily enough I got a phone call today from a local English school who have decided that they are interested in me and I am having an interview tomorrow, they understand that I am going to Japan and seem willing to put me on next year as a casual / part timer - awesome! I also got a phone call out of left field last night - one of my mates has been teaching at a University in Hoizhou China and asked me to send my resume for a job start in February. Very interesting.

I guess my problem will be if I fall in love with the country when I am over there. I have dreamed of travelling and teaching English for a long time, but I wish to continue my studies in Australia. If I am offered a position in Sociology Honours Program I would be mad not to take. I guess I have the fear of postponing my dream endlessly. I wish to study but I should not let my dream escape.

Japan should be a real culture shock. I am totally unprepared. I dont know the language, I know little about the country, its people and their customs. Yet it is mysterious and it calls to me. I can see myself becoming absorbed, lost, found.

Let the adventure begin!

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Photos

The Pirate Warwick John Silver
The pirate contemplates the difficulties of the journey ahead. 'ONWARDS!"

Sexy Voyager
'Weigh Anchor. Raise the Mainsail. Set Course for Japan!'

Comments

[Danie]

Babe - you will love Japan!!! All i want to do is go back... Teaching English there - get a job in a school (or go the JET program) avoid NOVA, Aon and like private colleges like the plague! If you fall in love with the place and decide to stay i will be UTTERLY jealous!!!

[Matt]

From the Briny deep
Arrgh, 'tis a sad day that we will wave you from our shores. But I be believein' that ye need to follow ya dreams and go in search of your treasure. Be wary of scallywags trying to send you to the depths and Davy jones locker. I have no more pirate speak let in me. Come back soon. Arrgh

[Carole & Larry Murray]

Off on another adventure?
Hi Warwick! Greetings from the U.S. Heading off to Japan??? It sounds scary to us, but then we're old and set in our ways. For a young man such as yourself, it does sound wonderful and you'll definitely see and experience things that you can't find in Australia -- or the States for that matter. Good luck to you; take care of yourself; and enjoy your travels. Love, Carole and Larry

[Bels]

Congrats
Hey Woz, sounds like a really good adventure and I am sure you will become absorbed in the whole place. By the sounds of it the plans are pretty open but I look forward to hearing all your tales Luv Bels

[Treens]

Land Ahoy
Here's hoping the (ahem) Sexy Voyager has a varied and fascinating trip. Happy travels Pirate Silver. Looking forward to hearing the tales - both tall AND true. K.

[Mac]

SO DESNE (AH, IT IS SO)
SAYONARA, Cabin Boy. One phrase you might want to remember...Toire wa doko ni arimasu ka?

[jason]

bastard
hi ya bearded warrior, what news hey, good to hear bro I am myself heading aboard as well first stop nz for 3mnths then way cananda then Ireland from there where I head nobody will know including myself it's a scary move but I am looking foward to it. Remember this never let the truth get in the way of a good story. look foward the storys to be had and told keep in touch.

[Amy from Boston]

All the best
Great news Wozza, enjoy your travels. You never know where they will lead you and that is just one of the best parts. Keep an open mind and let the adventure take you where it will. Keep in touch and if your adventure brings you near Boston or anywhere in the US or Canada then I would love to atch up for a pint or 10. Beer is not too bad here and I have found a bottle shop that stocks coopers pale ale and flys the Aussie flag out the front!!! Miss you mate! amy