Out and About is a column where we talk to people who currently live abroad. We spoke to Kendall Daniell who lives in Japan.
- Where do you stay and why there?
My family and I stay in Suzuka, in the countryside of the Mie province of Japan. We have lived here for almost three years since my husband joined the Honda Heat Rugby Club. There are many contrasts with a place like Tokyo, but we enjoy the quieter part of Japan. We come from farming communities and with a three-month-old boy we prefer the countryside over the city’s rush.
- Was it a big adjustment?
The biggest adjustment was just to be able to communicate. Here where we live, people speak only Japanese. Ordering coffee, making appointments, and asking directions were all of a sudden impossible. However, we were able to learn the basics by taking Japanese lessons.
- Do you still speak Afrikaans?
We speak Afrikaans with other South Africans quite often. At this stage there are four other Saffas who also play for Honda, and of course several at the other rugby clubs all over Japan. I couldn’t believe my ears when I was out shopping one day and I heard Afrikaans. It was two South African teachers who worked in the same building. It is definitely one of the most beautiful languages, especially if you hear it when you are so far from home!
- What was the strangest thing to get used to?
Everyone is expected to take off their shoes before entering a house. People even do it at doctors’ rooms, rest rooms and some restaurants. Most places will have a shelf with flipflops for indoor use. At some of the gyms you must have a pair of shoes you only use while you are there and take off once you leave the building.
- Is it expensive to live there?
Japan is definitely not a cheap place to live in. Fresh products are mostly imported and meat as we know it is limited and expensive. A decent lamb chop is hard to find and even harder to afford.
- Where in South Africa are you from and why did you decide to move overseas?
My husband and I are both from the Eastern Cape. He is from the Karoo and I am from the Sondagsriviervallei, therefore the more peaceful countryside of Suzuka was a perfect fit for us. The only thing the city is actually known for, is the Japanese Formula One race that is held here every year. You will also obviously find the Honda motor factory as well as the company’s rugby club.
Do you live abroad? We would like to hear from you. Send us an email to wereldwyd@afriforum.co.za.
