Okinawa, Japan: The Greatest Vacation Spot

After serving 4 years of active duty for the Marine Corps, I constantly wonder what it would have been like if I never left Okinawa, Japan. Of course, the 464 sq ml island has its advantages and disadvantages, as does any location. I for one, found the pros to outweigh the cons of life on the tropical island. From my own perspective, I perceive the Okinawa prefecture as a peaceful, very traditional society that differs significantly from the economy we are accustomed to in the United States. So is Okinawa a place of vacation, or retirement?

While active in the MC, we had to abide by strict regulations that prevented many individuals from experiencing life on such a beautiful island. For one, lower ranked enlistees were required to have "libo buddies" and return before curfew. A very small percentage of the 40,000 US military members were able to purchase vehicles; based on their rank and good conduct. I remember the very few locations Americans were known to go on a Friday or Saturday night, simply because they were conveniently located outside a base or within walking distance. However, these locations may as well be located in the United States due to its American presence. On the other hand, I also remember travelling the subway and bus, and eventually via automobile to some of the most beautiful beaches, traditional restaurants, and active nightlife events ever experienced. Eventually, I became accustomed to the Okinawa tradition and less from my American background. The language was casually thrown around and easy enough to learn, and before my 4 years ended I was considered a local.

Some of the cons associated with living in Okinawa are the humid temperature, and typhoon seasons. It is near dreadful to engage in outdoor activities during these months, and doesn't involve many trips around town. I can only imagine how some of the locals feel about residing on such a small, tourist island their entire life; with slim chances and hopes of escape to the mainland or elsewhere. Prosperity on Okinawa consists of family and friends, possibly a full-time job and accommodating living quarters. But it is quite different from our definition of successful in terms of money, responsibility, etc. In fact, young adults may not move out from their families' roof until marriage or transferring to a college campus occurs.

Fortunately, I have travelled the world and have become weary indulging myself with simple values our society relies on. I am a proud veteran of our country, but all the politics and reforms packaged with our American heritage are most notably defined as exhausting. Locals of Okinawa live longer than any other country in the world because of the stress factor that inhibits them. I recall the importance of being punctual and the little worry each individual showed. Never once were the locals on time, because they did not stress their schedules. Sure, they were responsible, but they did not allow it to affect their life nor their health. Their primary responsibilities revolved around their family and friends. They were locals on vacation...

I can speak about other advantages to life on Okinawa for foreigners as well, such as the near extinct crime rate, friendly people, and relaxing atmosphere, but the traditional way of life is what I miss the most. Too involved with drugs, crime, employment, security, health issues, money, etc. has forced Americans to conform to the "American Dream." I say this dream is gone, and that any ethics and morals have been robbed with it. So if asked, "Would I like to retire on Okinawa or simply remember it as an ideal vacation getaway?" With a little planning, you can bet it is my number 1 retirement dream.