Oct. 5 - Tourists always appreciate local friends who know the best places to visit. During my recent stay in Okinawa, I wanted to visit the wonderful Churaumi Aquarium. I had heard it was one of the world's finest, and after spending several hours there, I must agree with that assessment.

A few weeks after my visit, however, I remember even better the two stops that my local guides showed me. When Heather Eaton, who works as our Public Diplomacy Officer in our Consulate in Naha, and her assistant Aya Haemori volunteered to show me around, I had no idea they would take me to two wonderful spots missed by most tourists.

On the way to the aquarium we stopped for lunch at a place called "Pizza in the Sky." This restaurant is very aptly named since it sits high on a cape and commands a panoramic view of the sea below. We chose to eat outside where we could admire the traditional Okinawan building and be refreshed by the cool ocean breezes.

On the way home from the aquarium, Aya also showed us a local rest stop where one could purchase local fruit and other gifts. We all indulged ourselves in delicious homemade ice cream. There were many exotic flavors, and I had a difficult time choosing. I finally decided to try the hibiscus ice cream, and it was simply delicious. Not too sweet, it had a delicate flavor just like the smell of a hibiscus flower.

I was so glad that Aya came along to show us some of her favorite places that I would have missed. These memories made my visit to Okinawa extra special.

Until next time,

Jim