Friday, 21 September

Arriving at the airport was quite tiring; however, the excitement of the day saw the students manage the early start very well. After checking through our luggage and clearing the security checkpoint, the students had the opportunity to peruse the airport shops until boarding time. Many of the students took the chance to buy last minute gifts, something to entertain them on the flight or to stock up on chocolates and lollies.

We made a very brief stop in Sydney to change planes, but were unable to spend anytime in the departure area due to delays checking through the transit area security checkpoint.

After a rush to our connecting flight, we were finally on our way to Japan! The food was surpsiringly good and we had access to all the water, soft drink and hot chocolate we could take. Some of the students were able to enjoy a screening of Spiderman 3 as well, however an audio technical issue meant that 4 rows of seats were without any sound for the whole flight. The long, uneventful flight eventually took it`s toll and many of us had a quick nap.

Finally, we arrived at Osaka`s Kansai Airport and were promptly whisked by coach to the City Hotel Sunplaza for some well earned sleep and a long shower. Much to our dismay, it was murderously hot and humid and we were all glad to take advantage of the lack of water restrictions, both to rehydrate and find relief from the weather in a cold shower.

- Kim.