Here are the details of the trip so far. Left the OBX on Tuesday 10/15 to catch a flight from RDU to JFK at 0549 on Wednesday 10/16. I woke up at 0230 for some reason so start the clock of time without sleep. Easy trip to JFK where I had a 51/2 layover!!! Luckily there was smoked salmon for breakfast at the lounge and I love smoked salmon. Boarded Japanese Airline flight JAL005 30 mins late for Tokyo Haneda airport and nestled into for my seat for 1 15 hour flight. As a background note - I LOVE Japanese food and I love, love Sake. So of course I ordered the Japanese offerings throughout the flight and had my fair share of sake. I thought, this trip is off to a good start.
Landed in Tokyo around 5;45 PM a little over 21 hours since I woke up in Raleigh. Still no sleep. After going through the madness of immigration, I was happy to see my checked bag heading towards me on the baggage claim carousel. Thanks always a good sign. Breezed through customs and entered the busy world of a major Japanese airport. This was my first time to Haneda as I always flew into Narita before - new territories to explore.
Of course I had done my due diligence and booked a room in a hotel attached to the terminal where I arrived - I had a 15 hour layover before my flight to Taipei. Hmmm, now what should I do - get some dinner with some Sake? NO, my body, particularly my eyes, demanded some sleep. So I had a reasonably good night of sleep before I was to board another JAL flight to Taipei. Easy check in and through security then it was off to the lounge.
Whereas I very very rarely eat breakfast at home, I decided that a good course of some sushi washed downed with sake was appropriate. You know, the when it Rome thing. Boarded my flight on time and guess what I had for lunch? Yup, the Japanese plat with several glasses of Sake. Another good start of a day on the trip.
Landed at Taipei Songshan airport a little early, grabbed my bag, and met my host for the trip Cheng-Chien, my former Post-Doc and good friend. We were off for a full day of adventure in Taipei and that's where I will pick up the story next blog.
Until next time, be safe, be kind and peace out people.
