“Are you sure it’s okay for us not to know
how to swim?” This was my question before we head off to the kayaking and
diving site on our third day in Okinawa.
Today I conquered my fear. I grew up in the mountains and had never had the chance to learn how to
swim. We had breakfast to make sure our energy is enough for the day’s
adventure. Energized and feeling hot, we took the bus to the meeting place.
After a brief kayaking lesson, we made our way to the river - paddling, balancing, laughing and, learning. Team work and gut feeling made us able to go down and up the river. The instructor wasn’t just teaching us but also introducing the living creatures that aren’t found in other areas; a learning experience indeed.
After a brief kayaking lesson, we made our way to the river - paddling, balancing, laughing and, learning. Team work and gut feeling made us able to go down and up the river. The instructor wasn’t just teaching us but also introducing the living creatures that aren’t found in other areas; a learning experience indeed.
Our second activity was diving and we had to
drive a few miles for the next location. I was anxious but eager when we were
gearing up for the dive. Although it was a challenge for me even from the beginning
since the instructions were all in Japanese, I was still all ears. Our guide made sure that I fully understand all, since it is imperative
that we know what to do underwater.
Having learned the techniques and precautions, we descended below the water surface. I couldn’t think straight and I was about to panic. I signaled no and my instructor gestured me to relax. I paused . . . after, I followed them. We were lead to a site where the corals are visibly seen and the fishes swimming before our eyes. At that moment, I realized how wonderful it was to be in this adventure. I was so lost that my worries were replaced with excitement and wanting to see more. It was like a movie.
Though, the vast ocean appears scary, being in there brought out a surreal feeling. When chances arise, I would definitely want to do it as often as possible. We bid goodbye and walked to the bus stop.
Having learned the techniques and precautions, we descended below the water surface. I couldn’t think straight and I was about to panic. I signaled no and my instructor gestured me to relax. I paused . . . after, I followed them. We were lead to a site where the corals are visibly seen and the fishes swimming before our eyes. At that moment, I realized how wonderful it was to be in this adventure. I was so lost that my worries were replaced with excitement and wanting to see more. It was like a movie.
Though, the vast ocean appears scary, being in there brought out a surreal feeling. When chances arise, I would definitely want to do it as often as possible. We bid goodbye and walked to the bus stop.
We decided to have a quick meal at a highly
recommended ramen shop in the area. Before I knew it, I was gulping down the
last piece of noodle from my bowl. No wonder everyone is talking about it – affordable and absolutely delicious. Definitely worth checking
out.
The sun was setting when we reached Shuri Castle. At this time of the day, the castle stands mighty and sharp. Apparently,
their way of living in Okinawa during the early days was different
from the main island. Heading out, we were directed to a corner where we got to
see the panoramic view of the surrounding villages. It was a fine feeling
indeed to be standing up there like that – all mixture of history, culture, and the
summer breeze.
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