Week 40, 2020 - Moved!

Over the years, one difference I’ve found between life in Tokyo and Paris is the degree to which we rely on the resources and goodwill of friends in daily life. In Tokyo, we manage most things self-sufficiently with the use of professional services and established processes. My business is mine to deal with, and yours is yours. Here, we ask for housing tips online, sell and buy things from each other, pitch in to move heavy things, and make use of each other’s couches and extra storage spaces.

With the help of good friends who helped me drive and carry my stuff, a few more who welcomed me to the new neighborhood, a beat-up van rented from a car-sharing platform, and the kindness of apartment staff who lent me their industrial-size dolly that I’m now settled into a new place. I’m savoring the change of pace and having new pathways to discover in the city!