Almost every country has brought a baby-type pool so that their athletes can have an ice water soak after working out. Some are for one person, some for multiple people. It's crazy crowded! There is even an ice vendor on deck.

Here I am dumping more ice in the bath. Some of the guys have towels around their necks to keep the ice water off. Ice not only functions as an anti-inflammatory, but also flushes off the waste products from metabolism once the body re-warms. Read about other ice bath benefits.

The ice vendor with her portable freezer.

Located in the Harumi district, the 2021 Olympic Village will house 18,000 athletes and support staff. The residents must share rooms as there are only 3,800 apartments, each with their own bathrooms.
Team USA gets its own 14-floor building with 3 elevators. If you need to do laundry, you must go to building 15. Good thing swimmers don't get too dirty in the pool!

The most unique aspect of the room is the toilet. Before seating, you may want to set the toilet seat temperature. Perhaps you like to listen to relaxing music that masks your bodily function sounds or maybe you fancy a buttocks massage? After voiding your waste, you may consider a rinse. Set the water temperature. Then decide if you want a front (bidet) or rear (spray) wash. Water pressure settings may also be available to adjust to your desired amount of cleanliness. Lastly, toilet paper is available for your finishing touches.

Watch as the USA Olympic swimming team listens to the announcement of team captains: Simone Emmanuel, Caeleb Dressel, Alllison Schmitt, and Ryan Murphy. 
If you look along the back wall, you will see yours truly standing.

With a captive audience of students and media, the USA Olympic Swim Team demonstrated their speed and expert technique. Team captains gave motivational speeches and answered questions. Later the team was given kukui nut leis, which symbolize light or enlightenment. Hopefully, the team learned how to minimize their weaknesses during their time in Hawaii.

Here I am, smiling ear to ear. So excited to be part of this team. When I started my studies to become a physical therapist, this was my end goal. 
Thanks to everyone who supported me and especially my family. I wouldn’t be here without you!

Summer in Tokyo is hot and humid.
Average Humidity in July: 78 - 83%
Average Temperature in July: 84 degrees F
Average Rain: 6.2 inches

Compare this to Chicago:
Average Humidity in July: 71%
Average Temperature in July: 84 degrees F
Average Rain: 3.4 inches

​You must get a router at the airport if you want to use your mobile phone. Tokyo uses different frequencies, so your US mobile phone will not work. You will need Google maps to navigate, so don't forget to pick this up at the airport. They will be next to impossible to find elsewhere.

Arigato Food Tours, Tea Ceremony, and bathing in an Onsen.