About six months ago when filling in my application to take annual leave for our Japan trip, I half-jokingly entered into the ‘Remarks’ field that this overseas holiday was to be “a wife-pacifying trip”.:)
Truth to tell; we’re just about 2 days away from departure for our longest overseas vacation break so far, and I’m still feeling semi blasé about it. I did the overall planning in terms of when to go, where to go, and how long to go – but in the last 2 months have left the specific itinerary planning to Ling. That’s come about on the one hand because I’ve been madly busy with work, but on the other it’s because this upcoming trip is really for Ling.
I was thinking aloud with Matt on MSN earlier this morning over why I was semi-unexcited about the trip. Putting aside the fact that I’ve been to Japan already; the fact is that unlike many of my students or even some of my peers, I’m not obsessed with all things Japanese. In fact, if I had a choice, I’d much rather visit the mid-west United States, or central Europe.
Still, a lot of planning has gone into this trip. Of the three cities; Kyoto – where we’ll be spending six nights – is easy since there’s plenty to do and see in the vicinity. Osaka we’ll be spending just one night. Kobe however has been real tricky given its lack of sights, and with the benefit of hindsight, mostly to do with that Himeji Castle is undergoing renovation this moment, I think we should have chosen a different city.
Also mindful is that we’re not splurging on the trip. So, while Ling with a tinge of envy reads Ann’s blog and the luxurious accommodation she and Chris are putting up in in their twice a year pilgrimage to Japan, Ling’s at least cognizant that with our reduced combined income since Hannah, we have become also financially prudent and more clear than ever about necessities and desirables. No, we’re not staying in Love Hotels – I’m claustrophobic – but while the three hotels we’re staying at in the three cities while aren’t five-star accommodation, still look pretty alright and have all the necessary amenities that we need to get by.
As for equipment coming along for the ride; it’s:
MacBook Pro. I’m still deciding if I should just bring the Dell XPS. My shoulders will complain though.
Nikon D300 + Sigma 18-250mm + Nikon 18-55mm + Nikon 50mm. The 18-55mm is the backup, and the 50mm is just for fun. In case I decide to get real creative!
Olympus E-PL1. Backup and more discreet camera.
Panasonic HDC-TM700. For video.:)
Gorillapod Focus. For the obligatory couple poses.
The weather’s a comfy 5-10 degree celsius. No snow yet; but who knows.:)
You know, guys, I work remarkably cheap, as in free. I’m sure I can carry your bags and remain discreet. :)
I expect you’ll both find yourselves really enjoying the trip.
You’re so funny, Matt. :P Thanks, I intend to enjoy every minute of it!
You know, we should try to travel together someday, the 3 of us (without Hannah, hee hee).
To New Zealand (and with Hannah, too)!
Are you guys having an early Christmas with the family before departing?
Afraid not, bud. But I hear that Hannah’s going to be having her own Christmas celebration with grandparents and brothers/sis-in-law.:)