Now for the fun part

With conferencing commitments out of the way, we're can now focus on being tourists. Joined by Wendy, fresh off a flight from Australia, we caught the shinkansen to Fukuoka-Hakata to meet up with Xina.

The Japanese art

...of writing on paper promotional t-shirt. My Kanji may be a little rusty, but I believe Jon H's new shirt says "Osaka 2008".

A measure of authenticity

In a country where the authenticity of a restaurant/ hotel room/etc is inversely proportional to it's size, this closet-sized eatery was as genuine as they come.

PayEasy not so easy

Before returning from Japan I need a new US visa which involves an interview at the consulate paid in advanced at an ATM via "Payeasy".

It took >2 hrs for 3 PhDs playing match-the-symbol, with a final key step of inputting a phone number(?!!) only revealed by getting this screenshot translated at the tourist office, before they would take the cash.

Osaka Aquarium

Our pre-conference trip to the aquarium provided greater insights in Japanese life (i.e., crowds) than into marine life. I did manage to get a few unobstructed photos.

Osaka via United

We're off to Osaka for a few weeks for the IUCr meeting, a little touristing and copious amounts of Japanese cuisine.

08-08-08

A prosperous date... for the submission of manuscripts (hopefully).

Self Portrait

What kind of sunglasses is Greg wearing?

Quid pro quo

Biting-sharks-on-sticks are NEVER a good idea for kids confined in the car for a long trip home.

More stars

Noah gets in on the starfish action too.

Poor Mr Greg

Pete lends Greg his nephew to help prepare for his new role as uncle.

Bath

A rare bath time for Now-ie (aka McNally the cat) - Miss Madison's constant companion of many years.