Re-return

The end. On Monday January 30 I will return to the United States. I'll land in Dallas, TX and then fly to Minneapolis. It's really hard to believe that my time in Asia has come to end. This last week in Tokyo has gone outrageously fast. I have enjoyed it, but it's amazing how much of the moment is ruined when money gets involved. The cost of living in Tokyo is higher than the U.S. and even higher than in Beijing and it really just discouraged from traveling or going out at all. The month has flown by and I've had experiences that are really irreplaceable and in reality, probably once-in-a-lifetime. While I can always come back to China or Japan again, the feeling will never be the same. It will be more of something like a homecoming rather than an adventure.

This month I gained an appreciation for home, but also for China and Japan. While it's easy to look down on China for it's various social, economic, and political problems, the country is really a diamond in the rough. While the health standards are skeptical, in general the food and area is clean. The people are also kind, helpful, and welcoming. Having an American income is amazing as Beijing becomes a nighttime playground. Anything and everything is possible. In contrast, in Japan it's nearly impossible to let loose and be reckless and young. Traveling is expensive, nightlife entertainment is expensive and it's incredible how quickly the cost piles up. But in general, I was able to have an amazing month for $400-$500 U.S.

Regrets from the month? Not many. I only regret not letting loose more. I regret not falling asleep in class every day. I regret not having a camera. I regret not getting a suit. I regret not having more money at the silk market or sanlitun as well as not having more suitcase space.

Successes from the month? Many. Addison's birthday week. Sunset on the Great Wall. Ultimate with Chinese kids. Getting lost in Beijing. Knock off Rayban's for 20 kuai (<$5 U.S.). Riding a sled down a mountain. Site seeing. Chun'Jie (Chinese New Year). Helen's. 去难( very poor translation of "Go Hard")。D. Rose jersey.

I could go on for hours, but I don't have the time. I'm excited to be back in the U.S. but China will always have a special familiarity for me. Will I return? Who knows?

Best wishes,
Vinh