By: Athena Foo
Waiting to board our flight!
One by one as each of us arrived at our departure gate it was clear that, despite our morning grogginess, feelings of excitement and anticipation was in the air as we approach the first step on our Global East Asia Japan adventure. Even though some of us have been to Japan before, we were still ecstatic at the prospect of returning and enjoying new experiences in the country with a research-driven focus. As we waited to board, many of us began discussing with our group members about our research proposals that we would be presenting at Meiji University. Between naps and an entertainment system full of the latest movie releases, who knows how much we could get done? Good thing we have some time after we reach Tokyo to finish up the proposals before they are due.
Airplane with a BB-8 paint job.
One of the other Air Nippon Airways (ANA) planes at the gate had a paint job mimicking the Star Wars droid BB-8. While I am I little jealous of the passengers on that flight, I do look forward to seeing Japan’s use of a wide variety of characters and mascots to represent products, prefectures, and stores. Perhaps products featuring such characters would be fun souvenirs to bring back to family and friends? The beginning of our trip went smoothly as all 16 students boarded without a problem (which is not surprising seeing how we have all flown on international flights before) and our plane took off without any delay.
ANA grilled mackerel meal.
About an hour into our flight we were served drinks and a meal. This is my first time flying with ANA and I noticed a few subtle differences in the drink selection compared to the North American airlines that I’m used to flying on. For example, iced green tea is available and hot tea is served after every meal. Also, Coke is also often referred to as cola, so I will have to keep that in mind if I ever want to order any once I arrive in Japan. As for the meal, we had a choice between a ‘Japanese style’ meal with grilled mackerel and an ‘international style’ with grilled chicken. I chose the mackerel meal and was delighted to see that it came with various side dishes like zaru soba (cold noodles in dipping sauce), potato salad, edamame, eggs, and more. To top it all off everyone got a small container of Häagen-Dazs ice cream for dessert! This meal was probably one of the best airplane meals I have ever had and now I am really excited to try all sorts of different Japanese foods once we arrive from traditional delicacies to strange and unique candies.
Enroute to Narita Airport
So with my belly full, I began falling into a food coma as my eyelids grew heavy and the cabin lights were switched off. Perhaps it was time to rest up for the exciting journey ahead before we landed in Japan.