Make Friends. Eat Ramen.

Prior to coming here, a few people told me that more people go out after work before they go home than in the States. They have tiny spots called izakayas that are basically tiny bars with no more than a few chairs if any at all that don’t serve food. People hop to a few all night long and there are an unlimited number of them if you walk down most streets. I decided to give it a shot and met the best people! It was my first time really needing the translator app because no one spoke English and when you are rubbing elbows with the only other person or two in a place the size of a bathroom, you start talking! It was very fun and I learned that translator apps are pretty awesome because no one ever says anything dumb! You always have time to fix what it translates before it does so you can always make it say what you want. I also learned that American politics are pretty important to the rest of the world. Perhaps it was just a natural starting point to talk about when they would find out I’m from the United States, but several people asked me about what was happening in American politics like it was a reality show. I don’t think many of us realize the influence our country has on the rest of the world. The leaders we pick represent us on the global stage and I heard a lot of unflattering candid opinions from people about our former President and current President. People were respectful though and I tried to change the subject as fast as possible in each scenario! I got a great recommendation for a ramen place that was so good I think I have to go back if I can find it again. It was so spicy I must have looked pretty embarrassing with my face sweating! Another nice thing I’ve learned is that most places have an English version of their menu they will give you as soon as they see you don’t speak Japanese. Then you can just point to what you’d like and it’s done. Super helpful. I’m also fascinated that every toilet, even in tiny places, are smart toilets. They warm the seat, pull air in so no smell gets out, and even wash and dry your bum for you. I need one at home! Learning a lot, meeting great people, and am having a much easier time understanding and communicating than I thought I would. Turns out all that 93% non-verbal communication stuff we talk about in class is pretty universal. Who needs that 7% spoken language stuff anyway ;) Let’s see what today brings!