My job sent me to Japan. They joke at work that I’m becoming the agency’s globetrotter, and I guess it’s mostly true. I am far from complaining. Even though I still, after all these years, turn into a puddle of anxiety before every trip, it’s worth it. I love seeing new places and meeting new people, even though it is very much of a challenge to my probably ASD-brain.
I got to participate in an incredibly nerdy conference, listening and learning but also actually contributing with things. It feels slightly more justifiable to fly halfway across the world then, if I actually have something to share with the place I am visiting. And I did bring a lot back in terms of information and inspiration.
I also got to take some time off for sightseeing. Tokyo was fun and wild with a million niche bars and clubs. But my heart really connected with Nara and Kasuganocho primeval forest. Sacred deer, shrines and temples everywhere, and ancient, awe-inspiring trees. The very air was charged with divinity.
Findig vegan food was a challenge, since the Japanese seem to want to put fish in absolutely everything (including freakin’ french fries!). But Happy Cow led me to some vegan places that were absolute gems, so I was able to partake of traditional cuisine without having to eat my fellow beings. It somewhat surprised me that even the buddhist population would be so keen on meat, but apparently traditions vary.
Technology made it easy to get around even though most people I met didn’t speak English. Everyone was very polite and friendly, and it was kind of fun making an effort to understand one another despite language barriers. And I felt very safe. Even though it was evident my gender caused a bit of confusion, nobody gave me any trouble about it. Very much unlike my experience in my home country, actually…
I feel incredibly fortunate to be able to travel like this. Apparently Paris is up next, in May. Until then, enjoy what photos I remembered taking!
Love and travels,
Tim
