Japanese people don't get fat.

Last week I mustered enough courage to step on the weighing scale that Elton brought in, and to my delight I found that I have lost about 4-5 kg since I moved here 3 months ago. Without even trying. Subarashi ne!

The food here is definitely healthier and served in smaller portions, and oddly enough I don't miss anything back home, not even my staple kaya toast and acidic kopi gao.

Here I have tried Okinawan, African, Nepali, Peruvian and other exotic dishes that I don't get in Singapore and for some reason I eat everything spicy now- i.e. I add chili flakes, chili oil, tabasco and whatever I can find on all my food, which annoys P greatly because he thinks it's an insult to the work of the chef.

I make it a point not to stay home and nua when I am here, and on my days off I think of a station that I have never been to and I either explore the place on my own or meet with someone to hang out. I do so much walking it equates to a gym workout, especially in the crazy summer heat.

The only drawback is that I have renounced heels and wear only flats now.

When I am teaching I am mostly standing and writing on the board, walking around the room to keep my energy up. I don't feel hungry as much as I feel thirsty, and I bring my Tully's tumbler filled with warm water to every class.

My biggest vice now is biru. I never used to like it in Singapore, but I guess my tastebuds have changed. It is an irony that I had my first Tiger in a Vietnamese restaurant here, but I have decided that Asahi is my favourite.

Alcohol is so cheap here- a can of beer costs about 200 yen (SGD2.50) while a glass/pint would set you back about 450-650 yen (SGD5-8). It's a great way to unwind after a long day, either in the comfort of your own home or when you're out chillin' with friends.

I can't wait for when Jo and Joe comes here in September!