Rita is on Vacation for a Week

That's right folks!

In 1.5 hours, I am embarking on my trip to go on my trip to Singapore. Yes, you read it right. I am going on a trip to go on a trip. Wow. I didn't realize how long it takes to get to Narita airport from Tokyo. 2 hours with traffic! I thought I could quickly hop on a train and get there. Well, because of this... I'm pretty much screwed.

Let's just say that it's 12:21 right now... and ... I have to pack, get ready, and book a few hotels and flights from Singapore by 2pm. :) It's too bad I can't do it on my way to the airport, since I have so much time to spare! I need an iPhone.

[Pause: (15 minutes later) I just had to 're-publish' my blog, because I'm done packing, and want to declare that packing is overrated. I've decided to take only 2 pants, 2 shirts, a cute dress, sandles/bikini of course, and 1 multi-going out outfit for a 6 day trip. You really don't need much, as I experienced with my Kyoto and Borocay trips. I'll just go shopping if absolutely necessary!)

Anyways.. since I now have time to spare lol, I thought to leave you with one quick Japan hoe-down (or did I call it a hammer down?) ;)

Noodles

Depending on where you are on the map, the term 'noodles' can project quite a few different images in your mind.

Did you know that when people refer to 'noodles' they mean noodles in soup or hot water? I sure didn't until I came here. I am Brazilian, and when we say noodles, we mean noodles on a plate with Parmesan cheese. We think of noodles on a plate even for the 'Ramen Noodles' that you can cheaply purchase for less than $1.00. I must say, I have never eaten those ramen packages in water or soup.

Retrospectively thinking, everything now makes sense. My friend Steph from work was in India, and she said she missed Noodles. It's funny how I related to Italian noodles while she actually referred to Asian noodles in soup.

Different kinds of amazing noodles I've had here in Japan:
Ramen
Udon (thicker white one)
Soba (most healthy type)

Each restaurant has its own secret recipe for the noodles, meaning, not for the dough, but for the entire noodle experience (with the water, flavor, ingredients, etc). It's the 'secret sauce' (refer to picture of me pouring the soup to eat the noodles). Not only that, but each place has its own way of serving the noodles. I'm addicted to noodles now!