#cultureshock

Having lived in the Netherlands for so long, I seem to take it for granted how well set up it is there for cycling. While here in Japan, I am using a bicycle daily, and the frustration is boiling up occasionally at the difficulties I have been confronted with. Like having to either cycle in busy open car traffic, or instead to cycle on the sidewalk while avoiding collision (and eye contact) with pedestrians. Or having to take side streets or else face repetitive, irritating delays at all the big four-way intersections. Or having a 15-by-15-block central district banned for all incidental bicycle parking (at the threat of towing and a fine, which is just the place where bicycle parking should be encouraged more than cars) and having to circle around for half an hour to find a bicycle parkade with open incidental parking spots. Despite this all these irritations, it is still a nice, refreshing (and much faster) way to get around here. #cycling #japan #netherlands #cultureshock

One unexpected culture shock since moving to Catalonia, aside from the time-shifted mealtime schedule, is the attitude towards rain — even the faintest few drops can lead to a sudden migration indoors and even the cancellation of events with outdoor components. Today, one of the girls is on a school trip, and the forecast 37% chance of rain triggered numerous messages in the parents' WhatsApp group suggesting that it should be completely cancelled or rescheduled. Coming from the UK, and even the relatively dry London, where this attitude would result in nothing ever happening, I continue to be taken by surprise, even after seven years here! #CultureShock #Catalonia #Spain #Rain