Sayonara

Those of an enquiring disposition may have noticed that my postings over the past week have contained more of a Japanese flavour than would normally be found in Pattaya.

After eighteen months of hard work, she who must be obeyed was finally given a week off work by her begrudging employer. I said that I would take her wherever she wanted to go (apart from Europe (especially France), or anywhere where there was currently a state of war), and she said “Japan”.

So we went; and it was bloody wonderful. I am usually glad to return to Thailand after some time away, but I climbed into the plane in Osaka yesterday with a real sense of regret. Lovely country, charming people, good times.

I was determined not to turn the trip into a photo outing; the intention was to give my wife a well-earned break. As a result there was about 7000% more shopping than I would normally allow and a load less photo opportunities. But shots were taken and they will no doubt be vomited onto this site over the next few days. Meantime, I really need some decent sushi for lunch.

Comments 🔗

2013-09-27 | Barry says

Never been to Osaka, but Tokyo is one of my favourite places to visit. Arranged a couple of days stopover on the way back from New York once, but instead of sightseeing I spent the entire stay glued to the tv as I arrived 30 minutes after 9/11 began. Made another trip for my birthday, with spouse, and experienced one of those delightful Japanese touches when the hotel noticed from my registration card that I was spending my birthday there and they provided a cake and a card signed by the staff. I love these people. But why Osaka and not Tokyo, pray tell?

2013-09-27 | Spike says

Four days in Kyoto for the culture, two days in Osaka for the shopping. That was the theory, but in fact there was some shopping in Kyoto (in cultural places such as the monthly market held in the grounds of a temple), and a load of culture of the streets of Osaka.

2013-09-27 | French Frog says

Why not France? :)

2013-09-27 | Spike says

Erm, err, because it is too lovely and she would not want to come back to Thailand?

2013-09-27 | Wolfgang Lonien says

Hehe - best excuse I ever heard…