October is a busy time for the Iki Island ALTs. We are usually booked every weekend long before the month even begins. This year it has already begun, the many travel plans and adventures we plan to take with the onset of cooler weather and festivals. Last weekend I spent my time in Fukuoka, shopping and meeting new JETs at the block 10 welcome party held at the Tenjin Sky Hall. I had a blast meeting new Canadians and some old ones too.
This coming weekend, 4 out of 6 JETs on Iki are meeting up with 4 out of 7 JETs from Tsushima island to spend the long weekend in Busan, South Korea. In the past it was never my intention nor dream to visit South Korea. I've had a bucket list of places I'd like to go, but seeing as I am just next door to this wonderful place with a ferry from the island and the opportunity arose to go with a few friends, I thought I'd take the chance and add it to my list of experiences.
The following weekend is the start of our Nagasaki ALT conference, which begins on the Monday and Tuesday but is considered a business trip. I am going with a few friends a few days early to visit one of my favourite theme parks, Huis Ten Bosch, and the onsen island near to Nagasaki City. I am looking forward to visiting Nagasaki city again this year because of the many wonderful sites and wonders and ethnic foot it has to offer! Annnnd the mountain top Onsen is the greatest.
The following weekend is a mass ALT takeover of a certain amusement park which is scheduled to close later this year. This is the last chance we will get to enjoy what this park has to offer. The Space world amusement park is located not far from Fukuoka city along the North Western shores of Fukuoka Prefecture. With a JR train discount pass I can see the entire park without extra cost and meet even more JETs! After the park, I hope to go shopping again in Fukuoka before returning to my island for the month.
The last weekend isn't really a trip but My main school has it's school festival: Bunkasai. I always enjoy a good school festival! It will be fun to watch the student performances and see their art and efforts!
Things will slow down again after that. IN November I have a trip planned to go to Fuji for a JET retreat with another ALT from Iki and a friend who lives on Iki. Then 2 weeks following that I have a friend visiting from Toronto!! I look forward to showing her around Iki and enjoying the fall weather!