Semester at Sea Blog: May 2008

Kobe Beef

I have learned a lot on this trip. One thing I learned was that Japan, or Kobe specifically, is known for really good beef. It is really expensive, but I tried it out at a really good restaraunt on my last night in Kobe. Again, it was Ashley, Eddie, and I having a good time. This dinner was a lot of fun and the beef was good... but I would never pay that much for beef in the real world and it was good and all, but I don´t get what all the hype is about. Eddie thinks he is a vegetarian sometimes so he just had sushi. Ashley and I enjoyed the beef before heading back to the ship at the last minute.

Cherry Blossom Trees

Beauty in Japan

Japan is very beautiful, especially during April when the Cherry Blossoms are in bloom. I don´t remember the name of this garden, but it was breathtakingly beautiful, even with the cloudy skies. It reminded me of the spot in China with its striking beauty and peaceful nature.

Japanese Sushi!!!

For lunch the on the second day, my family took me out for sushi. I didn´t expect to really enjoy because I don´t like seafood, but Noriko secretly ordered me some beef and noodles. It was funny. I didn´t try any sushi that was too fishy, but what I did try, I enjoyed. I like the conveyor belt style of a restaurant as well. It is very efficient. During dessert, Misuzu lost a tooth! It was exciting.

Me and my sisters

Misuzi, me, and Momoka after breakfast.

Lunch

For lunch, we went to Miki´s apartment. It was a traditional Japanese meal on the floor with the whole family at the table. Miki is a family friend of my homestay family and was very helpful in translating English. She also works closely with the organization that coordinates the homestays and lead a party for me and a few other students to welcome us to Japan. She was very kind and I am very glad to have met her. At the table is (clockwise): me, Miki, her two sons (I don´t remember their names), Momoka, and Misuzu. Miki is an excellet cook; lunch was delicious.