The Scoop

Friday, June 19, 2009

June 5, 2009 19:47 JST Day 1

So it starts. I have embarked on my new journey and the first day went without any negative event thankfully. I had to transfer some weight from one bag to another at LAX, but that was the worst I had to deal with. I slept for at least six of the first 13 hour flight so I spent the day feeling sufficiently rested. My airline across the Pacific was China Airlines and I have nothing but good things to say about the experience. They were very helpful with check in, super accommodating all flight long (2 meals and plenty beverage runs!), and I like their uniforms. They reminded me of old school American stewardess style from the 50s. They look quite elegant and very attractive. The Japanese staff at customs was awesome also. If they weren’t wearing a mask, everyone greeted me with a smile or at least a kind tone that kept me at ease through the three customs stations I had to pass through. At one of them they actually took my picture and got prints of both my forefingers. I was surprised but commend their precautions. You can’t be too safe I guess.

After I got past customs, I waited 10 minutes till I met up with the AEON training rep. and other students. Everyone is really nice in the group I met with. There were 7 of us including the rep (4 Americans, 2 Aussies, and 1 New Zealander). The training house was about a 1:45 hour train ride away from the airport so I got to know some of the gang as we made our journey. I like the crew so far. A kind and interesting group of people they are. I also need to mention that my eyes were busy the whole train ride. Everything from the landscape to architecture is unfamiliar and I loved it. I feel like a foreigner and am enjoying the sensation at the moment.

Once we arrived to the training house, we met the rest of the staff that will be training us till next Friday and got a grand tour of the building. The layout is Japanese style and I am digging it. I am sharing a room with one other gentleman (Also from So Cal) and we are getting along well. I basically spent the evening preparing for tomorrow’s training and taking it easy. My long travel has caught up with me as I type this, so that is why this entry lacks some coherent structure and eloquence. As I turn in for the night, I have to say that I am excited and optimistic. I have finally begun my journey and I look forward for tomorrow in order to make it the best. Though a bit fatigued right meow, I am looking forward to it ^_^

No comments: