What was your reason for visiting Japan? I visited Japan for 6 weeks to participate in a course titled‘ Tourism Development through the Appropriate Management of World Heritage Sites.’ This was to give Jamaica more exposure and an understanding of how variables, systems and processes work together to ensure the management of World Heritage Sites in a way that stimulates local and international tourism.
JAPAN, THROUGH DHALIA’ S EYES
What was your reason for visiting Japan? I visited Japan for 6 weeks to participate in a course titled‘ Tourism Development through the Appropriate Management of World Heritage Sites.’ This was to give Jamaica more exposure and an understanding of how variables, systems and processes work together to ensure the management of World Heritage Sites in a way that stimulates local and international tourism.
What was your first impression of the country?
My first impression of the country was one of hospitality and care. When I disembarked the plane and saw individual immigration personnel who were strategically placed, greeting and bowing while directing me and other passengers to the respective zones for connections and arrivals, I was somewhat stunned.
Where did you stay and what was that like? During the 6 weeks I traversed the Kansai area, which is known for having historical and cultural richness of Japan. Within every city I was particularly impressed with the level of order that not only the place possessed, but also the immense discipline that local people possessed. And since we were not fluent in the native language, JICA in their wisdom ensured that we got 3 formal Japanese classes, which would teach us survival skill of conducting Japanese conversation. These classes were helpful to the extent where we could feel free to go into a store and orders items using basic phrases. It was empowering, to say the least. There were instances of challenge, but nothing a little informal sign language couldn’ t fix.