Category Archives: Uncategorized

Just now, T threw a combination Deepavali/birthday party with a bunch of his relatives.  It was very nice, and there was an excellent home-cooked meal (including, if I understand correctly, some dried, steamed shark). Everyone made me feel most welcome. … Continue reading →

I spent last night in a hostel (and froze under an overzealous air conditioner) and then immediately bolted for a room in Novena. It’s very nice, and the owner, T, is quite friendly and helpful. Also self- and home-employed, so … Continue reading →

Both times I’ve flown here there’ve been a few minutes of panic as I leave the airplane.  The flyer says that prohibited items are prohibited, but it doesn’t enumerate them!  It says that chewing gum, tobacco, and endangered animals may … Continue reading →

I had a very bad time immediately after taking the above photo. I was dragging my enormous roller-bag towards the subway station, and realized that I was in no mood to ka-bump, ka-bump, ka-bump, ka-bump it down 4 flights of … Continue reading →

I’m editing these pages on my laptop, on an Airbus.  And the Airbus is equipped with music-on-demand, so I’m listening to a Who album while I type.  So, already I’m immersed in all kinds of crazy sci-fi technology.   Still, … Continue reading →

The first time I played pachinko (as a 5-year-old) the owner of the machine explained to me that it cost 1 yen per ball, which meant you got 200 balls for a dollar.   In addition to normal inflation, the … Continue reading →

In addition to plastic food (a must for any self-respecting Japanese restaurant) this neighborhood has everything else you might need to get into the restaurant business.   I love the idea that I could show up here in the morning … Continue reading →

I didn’t fabricate those lederhosen shots.  At some point during her presentation, this woman started talking about how some of their robots were built in Germany and she showed a little video of them being assembled.  (Oddly, the factory robots … Continue reading →

My favorite part of the exhibit wasn’t part of robot expo at all, it just happened to be under the same roof.  There were many many machines which sort and organize screws, bolts and other thingamabobs in order to hand … Continue reading →