Job Discussion Forums

ejectseat · Joined: 09 Jan 2006 Posts: 21 Location: Fukuoka, Japan

I'm leaving for Osaka on Oct 3 to teach for NOVA. I have most of my things in order, but I just wanted some advise from those who have run into troubles. I have researched this, and have a good understanding, I simply want to be thorough. Thanks for the help with:

Travel advice

Money advice

What to take

Things I can take care of online prior to leaving

what to expect

wolfman · Joined: 18 Jan 2006 Posts: 189

I'd love to help you out, but you're from Pittsburgh. I don't help people from Pittsburgh. Unless you're not a Steelers fan...

zignut · Joined: 14 Jun 2006 Posts: 33 Location: Bay Area, CA

In terms of what to expect, I think you'd do well by reading some of the threads in this forum. Don't take it all to heart, but learn what you can. Everyone has their own perspective, and many have an axe to grind. Personally, I think NOVA is as much in the business of teaching conversational English to the japanese, as they are in facilitating the travel plans of young foreigners. My solution was to use NOVA as much as they used me; that's just the kind of relationship you should expect. Follow their rules, but don't ever let the *beep* get you down. As soon as NOVA starts bleeding into your life outside of work, take a step back and remind yourself why you decided to come to Japan in the first place. Just my $.02.

earthmonkey · Joined: 18 Feb 2005 Posts: 188 Location: Meguro-Ku Tokyo

Hi.

TokyoLiz · Joined: 16 Jan 2003 Posts: 1548 Location: Tokyo, Japan

See A Cynic's Guide to Living in Japan

http://www.larabell.org/cynic.html

JimDunlop2 · Joined: 31 Jan 2003 Posts: 2286 Location: Japan

Trumpcard · Joined: 29 Sep 2005 Posts: 50

I second bringing LOTS of deodorant. Yes, it can be purchased here at considerable cost over the internet or at COSTCO. COSTCO sells Mennen speedstick which is pretty nasty. Next door to COSTCO in Amagasaki is Carrefour. They sell a normal mens roll on western deodorant for a hefty 700 yen, but it works and is good.

Sweetsee · Joined: 11 Jun 2004 Posts: 2302 Location: ) is everything

Hey, I use those Mennen Speed Sticks from Costco! True, they appear rather chewpy but do they do the trick, heck of a lot cheaper as well.
Don't forget the return ticket!

The Dutchman · Joined: 28 Aug 2006 Posts: 5 Location: Osaka

Hi eject!

I've been hired for the same gig! Like you I will be arriving at Osaka airport on October 4th, where the NOVA people will pick me up. Needless to say, I'm really excited!

Feel free to PM me if you'd like to get in touch. See you at the office! Very Happy

ejectseat · Joined: 09 Jan 2006 Posts: 21 Location: Fukuoka, Japan

where can I get currency exchanged and not get hosed?

zignut · Joined: 14 Jun 2006 Posts: 33 Location: Bay Area, CA

I always went to the Shinjuku Citibank. You don't need to have an account with them.

But you know, if you're working for Nova, you'll be earning yen, so I'd recommend just changing enough money to last you til your first paycheck.

Glenski · Joined: 15 Jan 2003 Posts: 12844 Location: Hokkaido, JAPAN

Travel advice
What exactly did you expect to learn at this late date? I presume you already have a ticket...

Money advice
Please be more specific. What do you want to know? The denominations of Japanese money? Whether to bring traveler's checks? Where to exchange money? How much to bring?

What to take
Please! I'm sure your employer has mentioned this. Take clothes for the first 2 seasons, and have the rest shipped. Bring a laptop if you already own one. Are you male or female? What clothing sizes are you? Do you have certain prescription medication? More details please.

Things I can take care of online prior to leaving
I'm befuddled by this. You have a contract. Take care of your housing and belongings back home, and start packing. Have a bank account prepared to wire money to (if you want to). Have someone back home prepared to handle money for you (Don't know your situation with mortgages, outstanding loans, student payments, etc.) If you want to use AOL over here, you can.

what to expect
PLEASE!!!!! This is probably the most general question I've ever seen here. "Expect" in what terms?

Sweetsee · Joined: 11 Jun 2004 Posts: 2302 Location: ) is everything

Travel advice: check-in early and request a bulk-head seat for extra leg room.
Money advice: no need to bring a lot of cash if you have an ATM card that can be used internationally.
What to take: toothpaste and deodorant, and any toiletries that you use regularly. Don't know if you cycle but it is nice to have a good bike here.

Glenski · Joined: 15 Jan 2003 Posts: 12844 Location: Hokkaido, JAPAN

Sweetsee · Joined: 11 Jun 2004 Posts: 2302 Location: ) is everything

Don't see why I should Glenski but seeing as how you asked so nicely here goes.
For toothpaste afficionados the local product comes up short in terms of variety, packaging, flavor, value and effectiveness. It doesn't take up much room, lasts forever and reminds one of home. It also comes in kids' varities that make excellent gifts for those with small children. In short, it's fun!
Costco carries it but only one variety.
Are you taking a trip Glenski?

Enjoy,
s

P.S. Please explain: "Let's not go down this road before."