The Juice and Milk Craze

[ladislav]

I just returned to the US from a week in Japan after spending three months in the Philippines.

When I was in my 30s, the vibrant romantic life I had in the Philippines often overshadowed any challenges I faced. I would constantly long for Cebu, wanting to escape Japan.

Now, at 64, my priorities have changed. Dating and sex no longer excite me. What I crave now is comfort, good service, and reliability. So, I left the Philippines for Japan.

The Philippines started to feel frustrating, and Japan seemed like a paradise.

For the first time, I found myself yearning to be surrounded by the Japanese. And, surprisingly, Japan no longer feels as expensive as it once did.

The water pressure is strong, the showers heat up in seconds, and the hotels are comfortable with soft bedding and solid furniture. Everything is available at your fingertips. Things run on time, drivers give change and accept VISA. No overcharging, no tipping. Just stopping by any 7-11 and enjoying their amazing food and drinks was a highlight — I must have spent 20,000 yen on those alone. Tasty milk, peach juice, apple juice, bread that's not overly sweet, fresh egg sandwiches. No more “out of stock” signs, a quiet atmosphere, and soft classical music in the background. People are well-behaved, respectful, and they give you accurate directions. And, of course, the sushi – real, authentic sushi.

The overall quality of life, with everything so thoughtfully designed to support your comfort, felt incredibly satisfying.

I am in the US now taking care of business. Future plans unclear.

[gsjackson]

Okay, I was going to spend a week in Japan in the spring. Looks like the stay needs to be lengthened. Thanks for the report.

[Shemp]

Now, at 64, my priorities have changed. Dating and sex no longer excite me. What I crave now is comfort, good service, and reliability.

Paging @kangarunner for a possibly contrasting point of view.