On our way out of Tokyo, I was once again reminded of the sheer number of people in such a small area: a veritable anthill of industry. Of course, Japan has had its share of terror in the recent decades: nerve gas attacks on Tokyo subways, to name but one example. But they have also got security down to the finest art of all. From the preliminary inspection as one drives into Tokyo’s Narita airport, to the scanners in front of every row of check-in counters (ALL bags go through this BEFORE you check in, and this has been the case since I can remember), to the incredibly polite and efficient security staff as you head for your departure gate. There were no long lines of disgruntled travellers, no feeling of violation of privacy when I was asked to go through “secondary inspection”, and I emerged with a feeling that we were all safer as a result. Why do I not have the same feeling after enduring the same procedure in the USA? Could it be the total lack of consistency between airports, could it be the rules and regulations that make no sense in the light of any of the possible threats from terrorism? Could it just be the “I really don’t give a damn” attitude that emanates from most of the staff involved in ensuring our safety in the air? Maybe the truth is a combination of all of the above! Whatever it is, I dearly long for the US airport security to be streamlined, updated and, above all, truly Federalised.

We have a travel day today – to Seoul, folowed by a day off. Hopefully I can do some sightseeing, as I have had little time to do anything in previous visits.

In the meaintime, I will wish you all out there, whoever you are, and whatever you believe, a great day.