Tokyo

Japan was our last trip (over Mother’s Day weekend 2014) and we are so glad we made it there (it was a last minute decision)!  Bethany ended up having to go for work to meet with the sales and marketing team and her coworker was able to fit it in right before Ava’s 2^nd birthday so she could still fly for nearly free!  We only had 1.5 days to explore Tokyo before Bethany had to work, but it was better than nothing.  Unfortunately we were not able to meet up with Ryan’s cousin who has lived in Japan for several years.  The train ride was just too expensive/far for the amount of time we had available L

We noticed a couple of things immediately upon arriving in Japan:

1.       It is sooo clean!

a.       The air is sooo clean (no smog)

b.      The train is sooo clean and quiet (it is considered rude to talk on the trains)

2.       It is so orderly (people actually wait in single file lines, don’t cut in front of each other AND wait for people to get out of the elevator before others get on)

Of course there were a few other interesting things as well.  For instance, our hotel room was very small and minimal.  In addition, I noticed more people smoking.

It was clear to us that Japan and China are more different than even the US and China – and to be honest, we loved it!  Didn’t hurt that we were right by some American restaurants that we were excited to see – TGI Fridays and the Outback!  Perhaps it is because I couldn’t each sushi (being pregnant and all), but we didn’t eat any Japanese food while we were there (I know, we really should have), but we eagerly enjoyed the Outback TWICE!  J

Our hotel was in a great location – attached to a shopping center, bowling alley, arcade and aquarium!  Needless to say, Ryan and Ava had lots to do while I was working! 

dolphin show at the aquarium

Tokyo

shopping

Tokyo from WAY up high!

Mother's Day dinner at Outback!