Quick update

We are no longer going to Japan. ISE and SAS thought it wouldn't be best, and considering what devastation Japan is undergoing, it makes sense. There were three options of where we would go in place of Japan: The Philippines, South Korea and Taiwan. I was pretty indifferent about any of them. I thought South Korea was the less exotic of the two, meaning, it is frequently referenced to in international conversations back in the states. While the Philippines and Taiwan are so far removed and this would be my one shot opportunity to visit any of the two. It isn't the usual or ideal vacation or business spot. South Korea was overruled by the officials because of the fear radiation and strong winds blowing near it. The gang violence was too big of a present fear for us to dock in the biggest yet busiest port of Manilla, Philippines. It was unfortunate news since many of the crew members are from the Philippines. They were originally ecstatic and naturally, we care about them and got excited. They work away from home 6-10 months on the ship at a time. But anyhow, the conclusion was Taiwan. We as a shipboard community have generally ran out of malaria medication and they had to factor that risk in as well for our mystery port. It was also far enough from radiation, wind, tsunamis or earthquakes. Anyhow, have to talk about India and Singapore eventually. so tired. We dock in Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam tomorrow by 11 am. I feel lost and can't believed yet again, it's happening!