Global leaders to Tokyo and Singapore 2 18 16 by The Center For International Understanding

Global Leaders to Toyko and Singapore 2016 Orientation Notebook

The Center for International Understanding

Table Of Contents Our Sponsors

Participant List

The Center for International Understanding (CIU)

Global Training Initiative (GTI) 8 Positioning North Carolina to Compete

Program Purposes, Goals, and Phases

Itinerary

Flight Schedule

Emergency Contact Information

Reflection Tools

Reponsible Photography

Traveling to Japan? Read This!

Traveling to Singapore? Read This!

Safety and Health Tips

Packing Tips

Packing Checklist

Participant Health Insurance Abroad

Map of Singapore

Map of Japan

Company Highlights

Travel and Cultural Resources

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Our Sponsors The 2016 Global Leaders Program to Tokyo and Singapore is made possible with generous support from the following sponsors:

The Mariam and Robert Hayes Charitable Trust The Blanche and Julian Robertson Family Foundation The Moise and Vera Khayrallah Fund of the Triangle Community Foundation

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Participant List Representative Donny Lambeth District 75 (Forsyth County), North Carolina General Assembly, Legislative Head of the Global Leaders to Tokyo and Singapore Delegation 2016 Julie Allickson Director, Regenerative Medicine Clinical Center, Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine John Balchunas Assistant Director, Professional Development Program, Biomanufacturing Training and Education Center (BTEC), NC State University Senator Tamara Barringer Clinical Assistant Professor of Legal Studies, Kenan-Flagler Business School UNC-Chapel Hill, NC General Assembly Leah Brown President and Chief Health Innovator, A10 Clinical Solutions, Inc. Bill Bullock Senior VP, Economic Development & Statewide Operations, North Carolina Biotechnology Center Senator Jim Davis District 50 (Counties: Cherokee, Clay, Graham, Haywood, Jackson, Macon, Swain), North Carolina General Assembly Representative Josh Dobson District 85 (Avery, McDowell, Mitchell) Doug Edgeton President and CEO, North Carolina Biotechnology Center Senator Valerie Foushee District 23 (Counties: Chatham, Orange), North Carolina General Assembly Jessica Garner PK-12 Curriculum Coordinator, Cabarrus County Schools Representative Edward Hanes, Jr. District 72 (Forsyth County), North Carolina General Assembly Moise Khayrallah CEO, Aerial BioPharma Senator Michael V. Lee District 9 (New Hanover County), North Carolina General Assembly Matt Meyer Associate Vice President, STEM Innovations, North Carolina Community College System Jennifer Pancorbo Associate Director, Bioprocess Services, Biomanufacturing Training and Education Center (BTEC), NC State University

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Participant List Kaleb Rathbone Superintendent, NC Department of Agriculture and Consumer Science, Mountain Research Station Irene Sacks Director of Economic and Community Development, City of Kannapolis Representative Rena Turner District 84 (Iredell County), North Carolina General Assembly, Robert Van Geons Executive Director, RowanWORKS, Economic Development Rick Van Sant Executive Director, Center for International Understanding Sherry Vaughn Member, Stanly County School Board and Office Coordinator, FirePro

Program Facilitators Melissa Edwards Smith International Programs Coordinator, Global Training Initiative, NC State University Meredith Henderson Senior Director of Programs, Center for International Understanding

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Who We Are The Center for International Understanding serves North Carolina by promoting awareness, expanding understanding and empowering action through global education. Founded in 1979, CIU is part of the University of North Carolina System.

Vision CIUâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s programs for business, policy and education leaders aim to make North Carolina the most globally engaged state in the nation.

www.ciu.northcarolina.edu

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The Global Training Initiative (GTI) at North Carolina State University enhances international partnerships among NC State students and faculty, businesses in North Carolina, and people around the world through numerous short-term international programs. The GTI also provides custom training solutions or partners with NC State units or North Carolina businesses on international grants and short-term professional training programs. We serve international students (at either the undergraduate or graduate level), current NC State students, NC State faculty and working professionals. The GTI is part of NC State's Office of International Affairs.

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Positioning North Carolina to Compete in the Global Economy North Carolina legislators and local leaders are confronted by challenges and opportunities that require international insight. The Global Leaders program series provides international study programs to inform and engage policy, education, and business leaders on key issues impacting our state. Delegates see international best practices at work and gain a deeper understanding of the conditions and elements that contribute to international success. In turn, these leaders are better positioned to guide North Carolina through global challenges and opportunities.

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PROGRAM DESCRIPTION The 2016 Global Leaders Program to Tokyo and Singapore will focus on the life sciences and technology industries. This is the seventh Global Leaders Program and the second program on which the Center for International Understanding and the Global Training Initiative have collaborated. Previous delegations studied clean energy in the European Union (2010), economic development in China (2013, 2009 and 2011), and in Mexico (2008), innovation and entrepreneurship in India (2014), and, most recently, advanced manufacturing and workforce development in Germany (2014). The program in Tokyo and Singapore will include seminars; meetings with government agencies and officials; site visits to companies, innovation hubs and university settings; dialogues with professionals; and reflection time. The program will begin in Tokyo and conclude in Singapore. Opportunities for debriefing and reflection will occur throughout the program. The program will conclude with a group debriefing to analyze lessons learned prior to departure for North Carolina. In both Tokyo and Singapore, there will be a few cultural and educational activities during the program to provide a greater understanding of the history, culture, and philosophy of each region.

PROGRAM GOALS • Strengthen connections in the life science and technology industries in order expand current and future collaborations with Singapore and Japan

•

Analyze the economic climate and evaluate the driving factors that allow science and technology companies to thrive in Singapore

•

Consider Singapore’s value to North Carolina businesses, both as an entry point to Asian markets and as a growing investor in the U.S.

•

Assess economic connection between Japan and North Carolina and formulate recommendations to support foreign direct investment to our state

•

Determine best practices that may be applicable for specific entities or regions of the state

PROGRAM PHASES •

February 19, 2016 -- Orientation Workshop

•

March 4-13, 2016 -- Program to Tokyo and Singapore

•

April (Date TBD) -- Action-Planning Meeting

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Itinerary Day 1: Friday, March 4

(March 4 - 13, 2016)

Morning flight from North Carolina to Tokyo, Japan

Day 2: Saturday, March 5 Arrive in Tokyo and check-in to hotel Day 3: Sunday, March 6 - Tokyo 10:30 am

Welcome to Tokyo

11:00 am

Economic Development Presentation - Mr. Sumio Shibata, NC Trade Director, EDPNC

12:00 pm

Group lunch and economic development discussions

2:00 pm

Orientation to Tokyo (Optional tour of historical and cultural sites)

Day 4: Monday, March 7 - Tokyo 8:30 am Departure for Preseentation & Discussion with JETRO (Japan External Trade Organization) 11:00 a.m.

Briefing and Conversation with US Embassy on Trans-Pacific Partnership (manufacturing and agriculture)

12:00 pm 1:30 pm 6:00 pm

Lunch Site Visit: CIEA (Central Insitute for Experimental Animals) Business Reception at hotel with Invited Guests

Day 5: Tuesday, March 8 - Tokyo

8:30 am 8:45 am 12:00 pm

Group one: Site visit to Otsuka Kagu, Retail Furniture Company Group two: Site visit to Showa Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s University Working lunch at the hotel. Reporting out on small group visits debriefing; initial thoughts and recommendations

3:15 pm

Depart for airport

6:25 pm

Flight to Singapore

Wednesday, March 9 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Singapore 1:15 AM

Arrive in Singapore, check-in to hotel

10:00 AM

Group Briefing in Hotel Conference Center; Reporting, Leader Announcements

11:00 AM

Panel Discussion: Overview of Education and Workforce Planning

Panelists: Susanna Leong Su Jan, SIT; Ho Weng Si, EDB; SBF

12:00 PM

Working lunch

12:30 PM

Presentation by Singapore Infocomm Development Authority, Mr. Adrian Lim

2:00 PM

Depart for site visit to NUS (National University of Singapore)

2:30 PM

Site visit to NUS and discussion with faculty and students

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Itinerarycontinued Thursday, March 10 – Singapore 9:30 AM

Site visit to Primetrics

12:00 PM

Business lunch at Tower Club with invited guests

2:00 PM

Site visit to Quintiles: Overview of Life Sciences and R&D

Tour of Q2 Solutions Central Lab (a joint venture with Quest Diagnostics)

Discussion on the future of healthcare

Consider implications for North Carolina, Singapore and other stakeholders

5:00 PM

Site visit to Google

Friday, March 11 – Singapore 8:30 AM

US Embassy Briefing on Life Sciences and Discussion on TPP

10:00 AM

Biomedical Research Council and FusionWorld

Presentation and discussion with BMRC and Tour of FusionWorld

Group will split in two and half will have the discussion first, tour second. The other half will have the tour first and the discussion second. 11:15 AM

Presentation and discussion with SPRING Singapore

12:15 PM

Working lunch

2:00 PM

Site visit and presentations at Duke-NUS Medical School

3:30 PM

Overview of SingHealth and Singapore General Hospital

4:30 PM

Tour of Singapore General Hospital

Saturday, March 12 – Singapore 9:00 AM

Group Debriefing session and small group action planning

1:30 PM

Optional cultural activities: Historical Tour of Singapore, Bumboat Ride, Singapore Flyer

Sunday, March 13 – Depart for NC 3:00 AM

Meet in lobby

3:30 AM

Depart for airport

5:45 AM

Flight departs for US

Late evening Arrive in North Carolina

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Flight Schedule DEPARTURE - RALEIGH DATE

AIRLINE

FLT.#

FROM

DEPART

ARRIVAL

3/4/16

United

5401

Raleigh

Houston

6:00 AM

7:57 AM

3/4/16

United

Houston

Tokyo

10:50AM 3:50PM (3/5/16)

DEPARTURE - CHARLOTTE DATE AIRLINE FLT.# FROM TO DEPART ARRIVAL 3/4/16

United

5422

Charlotte Houston

6:10 AM

3/4/16

United

Houston

10:50 AM 3:50 PM (3/5/16)

Tokyo

7:59 AM

TOKYO TO SINGAPORE DATE AIRLINE FLT.# FROM TO DEPART ARRIVAL 3/8/16

United

803

Tokyo

Singapore 6:25 PM

1:15 AM (3/9/16)

RETURN - RALEIGH DATE AIRLINE FLT.# FROM TO DEPART ARRIVAL 3/13/16 United

896

Singapore Chicago

5:45 AM

12:50PM

3/13/16 United

4804

Chicago

6:10PM

9:08 PM

Raleigh

RETURN - CHARLOTTE DATE AIRLINE FLT.# FROM TO DEPART ARRIVAL 3/13/16 United

896

Singapore Chicago

5:45 AM

12:50 PM

3/13/16 United

3649

Chicago

Charlotte 5:40 PM

8:42 PM

Check In: Plan to be at least 2-3 hours early to provide adequate time for check in for international flight and security. You may need to arrive even earlier in case parking is an issue. Late Arrivals: If for any reason you miss your flight in the departure or connecting city, it will be your

responsibility to arrange with the airline the next available flight and to arrange transportation to or from the airport to the hotel. As soon as your alternate plans are known, please call Stephanie Caplan at (919) 271-5992 about your new arrival plans so that she can inform the group leaders.

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Contact Information Hotel Contact Information

Keio Plaza Hotel

2-2-1 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-Ku, Tokyo 160-8330 Japan Phone: +81 3 3344 0111

Swissotel The Stamford 2 Stamford Road Singapore, 178882 Phone: +65 6338 8585

Coordinator Contact Information: Ravi Raj Founder and CEO Authentica Leisure Email: ravi@authenticaleisure.com Mobile: +65 8434 4118

Meredith Henderson

Senior Director of Programs Center for International Understanding Mobile: 919-345-1660 Emergencies only please. Text is preferable

Families May Also Contact:

Lorena Patterson Program Director- Latino Initiative Center for International Understanding Email: lpatterson@northcarolina.edu Home: 919-661-6710 Mobile: 919-607-7651 Office: 919-237-7961

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Reflection Tools When we participate in a global study program, we often take the time to learn about the culture we will be visiting. However, it is also important to look at ourselves and what we bring to the experience. One of the key players in the experience is you. It is your eyes that will see, your ears that will hear, and your personal experiences and history that will help you to interpret what you see and hear. Although we will be meeting in large group debriefing sessions during the course of the program in Tokyo and Singapore, a journal is a great tool to help you reflect on your experience on a day-to-day basis as well as upon your return home.

Before You Go: It is recommended that you begin your journal before leaving the country. Reflect on your feelings about traveling to Tokyo and Singapore, your reasons for joining this study program, your expectations, and on questions you hope to have answered. Below are some questions to help you get started: • Why are you taking this journey? • What are you anticipating most about the program in Tokyo and Singapore? • What are you concerned or anxious about? • What are your assumptions about Tokyo and Singapore, the culture, history, education and economic systems? How do you expect the country and the people you meet to look, sound, act, etc? • What are the key questions you would like to have answered in Tokyo and Singapore?

In Country: While we are in Tokyo and Singapore, you can use your journal to record your journey. Some things to think about are: • Notes from presentations • Specific quotes • Sounds, smells, sights, etc. that you are experiencing • Questions • Experiences outside the formal program agenda • Dreams • Stories, poems, sketches • Use your journal to collect mementos, such as pictures, postcards, etc., to share with students and faculty • Record commitments or intentions to act when you return home

Upon Your Return

It is important to reread and review your journal after your return home. Continue to reflect on some of your experiences in Tokyo and Singapore and their effect on your life in North Carolina. Some additional questions that may be helpful are: • What did the experience of traveling to Tokyo and Singapore with this global study program mean to you? • What are some of the main ideas that you would like to convey to your family, friends and colleagues about Tokyo and Singapore now that you have been there? • How will this experience impact your professional practice? • What are some initial ideas that you have for recommendations for North Carolina policy and/ or programs based on your experiences? • What is the most important learning you derived from this experience? Bring your journal with you to the follow-up workshop. You may find that you want to refer to it as you begin the next stage of your action-planning.

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Responsible Photography Most participants on a travel seminar come with camera in hand, eager to photograph their experience for their own memories and to share with friends and family. Photos are a great way to document a travel seminar, but a camera can be a tricky tool to use well. How you use your camera reflects your level of respect for the local people and your long-term commitment to mutual understanding and responsible travel.

Guidelines for Taking Photos on a Travel Seminar: • Ask permission before you take a

photo, even if it is just a smile and a nod toward your camera.

• Avoid telephoto lenses: It is best to use them only when shooting landscapes, animals or during performances or festivals, when it is difficult to get close to people. Even then try to seek your subject out afterward to tell them you’ve taken a photo and explain who you are. • Send copies: If possible, offer to send a copy if it turns out well and make sure you follow up. • Pay attention to your prejudices: Ask yourself why you feel compelled to take a photo. Ask yourself how you would feel if the situation were reversed: would you feel comfortable having your photo taken by this person in these circumstances?

• Make connections: On your travel seminar, you will have the opportunity to meet and talk with many local people. Take pictures of the friends that you make instead of trying to grab images from strangers on the street. • Take pictures of normal things. Pictures of your room, meals, stores, etc. will help you answer some of the basic questions like “what did you eat?” • Your trip leaders, resource people and fellow participants all form an important part of your experience. Photos of them will help trigger memories and capture the flavor of visits. • Get closer and pay attention to details: The best pictures are ones where the subject is clear and where details help to tell the story. Getting closer (easier when the subject is not a person), can vastly improve your photo.

Note: these guidelines were modified from an article by Chris Welch, Tips for Making Better Travel Photos, found in the Minneapolis StarTribune, Sunday July 16, 2000, page G9.

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Traveling to Japan? Read This! Japan: is an island nation in the Pacific Ocean. The kanji that make up Japan’s name mean “sun

origin” and Japan is often called the “Land of the Rising Sun. Filled with high-rise-filled cities; imperial palaces; mountainous national parks; and thousands of shrines and temples, Japan stretches from the Sea of Okhotsk in the north to the East China Sea and Taiwan in the south. Approximately 9.1 million people live in Tokyo, while the Greater Tokyo Area houses approximately 35 million residents. Japan has a population of just over 127 million (2013). Japan is an archipelago of 6852 islands. The four largest, Honshu, Hokkaido, Kyushu, and Shikoku, make up about ninety-seven percent of Japan’s land area.

Weather: The weather in Japan in March is cool.

Highs are typically in the mid-50s and lows and typically in the low 40s. Closer to the time of travel, check the forecast at www.weather.com

Money and Tipping: The unit of currency in Japan is the yen.

It may be denoted as ¥. The yen comes in denominations of ¥1000, ¥2000, ¥5000, ¥10,000 (banknotes) and ¥1, ¥5, ¥10, ¥50, ¥100, and ¥500 (coins). The exchange rate is currently ¥118 to the US dollar. Tipping is not customary in Japan. In some restaurants, a service fee may already be included. If you decide to tip; place cash in an envelope before handing it directly to the recipient. Tips for guides and bus drivers are included in the program fee. Foreign currency may be exchanged for local currency at licensed money exchange locations. Our hotel will be able to exchange foreign currency but is likely to add a commission fee and may not offer the best rate of exchange. ATM’s compatible with US bankcards are available in large cities (such as Tokyo). However, not all ATMs in Japan accept international credit and debit cards. Generally, those found in Seven-Eleven’s will accept international cards.

Electricity: The normal electric current in Japan is 100 volts AC.

Plugs are two-pronged. Often, the plugs are not polarized (one prong slightly larger than the other) so you may want to bring an adapter if you have either polarized two-prong plugs or three-prong plus. Hotels will generally provide hair dryers in the room and irons upon request.

Making Phone Calls: When calling the US from Japan, dial 001 plus the area code and phone number. When calling Japan from the US, dial 011-81 and the phone number.

Some cell phone providers offer international plans for calling from Japan. Check with your provider for more information. Be aware that, even if your provider indicates that your phone will work in Japan it may not. Other options for calling include using Skype, Facetime, or other similar apps when you are connected to wifi. Email and text are also alternate ways to stay in touch with home/office.

Time difference: Tokyo is 14 hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time. 18

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Meals: Breakfasts are included at the hotel.

Most lunches and some dinners are group meals provided by the program, however, a few lunches and several dinners are on your own. For those individuals who have informed program sponsors of dietary restrictions, those have been conveyed to the program coordinators. However, you should reiterate those restrictions to the program coordinators or the guide at group meals.

Customs: Please read through the additional customs information for Japan at the following link: http://www.customs.go.jp/english/summary/passenger.htm

Be sure to bring prescription drugs in their original containers (with the prescription label).

Safety and Security: Always carry the hotel card and the

program itinerary with you. The former will assist taxi drivers and others in getting you to the right place and the latter will insure that you know how to catch up with the group should you become separated from us. Debit /credit cards and other valuables should be kept with you or locked in the room safe.

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Traveling to Singapore Singapore is a small island nation that is unique in the region. Not only is it a very young country, but it is also a land of immigrants. People from Singapore have three distinct backgrounds: Chinese, Malay, and Indian. In addition, there is a very large ex-pat population in Singapore. Singapore is one of the most popular and vibrant destinations in Asia as a renowned clean and beautiful garden city with its unique cultural diffusion. Singapore is a very clean, safe and efficient city. Singapore is a small, urbanized, island city-state located at the end of the Malayan Peninsula between Malaysia and Indonesia.

Weather: The weather in Singapore is tropical and humid year-round. March though July are the hottest months. Temperatures range from 73-90 degrees Fahrenheit. Money and Tipping: The unit of currency in Singapore is the Singapore dollar (or Singdollar). It may be denoted as $ or S$. The Singapore dollar comes in denominations of S$2, S$5, S$10, S$50, S$100, S$500 denominations. Coins come in 5, 10, 20 and 50 cents and S$1. The exchange rate is currently S$1.42 to the US dollar. Coins may be necessary to use public toilets.

included in the program fee.

Tipping is not customary although you may round up to the next Singapore dollar for good service. In some restaurants, a service fee may already be included. Tips for guides and bus drivers are

Foreign currency may be exchanged for local currency at licensed money exchange locations. Our hotel will be able to exchange foreign currency but is likely to add a commission fee and may not offer the best rate of exchange. ATMâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s compatible with US bankcards are readily available and are generally the easiest way to obtain cash. If you plan to use your debit or credit cards, be sure to contact your bank and/or credit card companies to inform them that you will be traveling and intend to use your card(s).

Meals: Breakfasts are included at the hotel.

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Phones and Making a Call: When calling the US from Singapore, dial 001 plus the area code and phone number. When calling Singapore from the US, dial 011-65 and the phone number. Some cell phone providers offer international plans for calling from Singapore. Check with your provider for more information. Be aware that, even if your provider indicates that your phone will work in Singapore it may not. Other options for calling include using Skype, Facetime, or other similar apps when you are connected to wifi. Email and text are also alternate ways to stay in touch with home/office.

Time Difference: Singapore is 13 hours ahead of EST and 12 hours ahead of EDT (The US switches from EST to EDT on March 13). Electricity: The normal electric current in Singapore is 220 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 240 volts AC.

Plugs are threepronged, square pin â&#x20AC;&#x201C; similar to what you would find in the United Kingdom. If you need electrical appliances, bring along transformers and/or converters. Hotels will generally provide hair dryers in the room and irons upon request.

Customs: Please read through the additional customs information for Singapore at the following

link: Singapore Customs Guide.

One note: Singapore does NOT allow duty-free concessions for cigarettes and other tobacco products. Additionally, it is illegal to import chewing gum. Be sure to bring prescription drugs in their original containers (with the prescription label). The importation or exportation of certain illegal drugs carries the death penalty in Singapore. Be mindful of your bags.

Safety and Security: Always carry the hotel card and the program itinerary with you. The former will assist taxi drivers and others in getting you to the right place and the latter will insure that you know how to catch up with the group should you become separated from us. Debit /credit cards and other valuables should be kept with you or locked in the room safe. Chewing gum and smoking in public places are illegal in Singapore as is littering. These activities may get you arrested and/or fined.

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Safety & Health Tips The Center cannot guarantee your safety while traveling but the staff is very conscious of participant safety in planning and carrying out programs abroad. CIU staff: • Communicate with international counterparts on local safety issues • Monitor State Department advisories and warnings • Contact State Department Country Desk or US Consulate or Embassy in country when conditions seem questionable • Provide you with Emergency Contact Information • Register your group at the nearest US Consulate or Embassy with a list of participants and the group itinerary Although there are certain inherent risks in international travel, there are things that you can do to help insure your own safety and that of the group. The Center strongly recommends the valuable suggestions found in the State Department publication, A Safe Trip Abroad contains some valuable suggestions. In addition, the Center recommends adhering to the guidelines found on the following pages: State Department Sites for Japan: http://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/country/japan.html State Department Sites for Singapore: http://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/country/singapore.html

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BEHAVIOR

SAFETY WHILE TRAVELING

• Avoid public places where U.S. Americans are known to congregate, for example, Hard Rock Café, American Express offices, etc.

• Avoid unregulated modes of transportation.

• Don’t draw attention to yourself or the group by talking loudly in public. U.S. Americans in their enthusiasm for their new experiences can seem unintentionally obnoxious to others. • If you become aware of a dangerous situation or a possible health hazard, contact the group leader immediately.

• Carry the Emergency Contact List and the itinerary with you at all times. • Carry a card with your hotel or host address written out in the host language for easy reference by host nationals, taxi drivers, etc. A hotel business card or brochure can serve this purpose.

• Respect the customs and obey the laws of the host country.

• Stay with the group. If you must leave the group, inform the leader or a group member of your whereabouts. Use the buddy system to help insure the safety of all.

• Be on your best behavior. For example, avoid arguments over a restaurant tab, which would call attention to you.

• Be alert in airports. Don’t leave your bags unattended or agree to watch a stranger’s bag.

• Watch out for members of the group.

• Make copies of the picture page of your passport and any other important documents you carry with you (i.e., visas, green card). Give a copy to the Center, leave a copy at home and carry a copy with you.

• Beware of pickpockets. Carry purses securely tucked under your arm. Carry valuables such as passports and tickets in an internal pocket or under your clothing or leave them in the hotel lock box. • Be alert to your surroundings and those around you. • Keep away from political and other demonstrations. • Be careful of WHO and WHAT you photograph. Always ask permission before taking pictures.

• Don’t go anywhere with a stranger. • Travel light. It will simplify check in at airports but it will also make you more mobile in the event that you have to move quickly in an emergency. • Walk only in well-lighted, populated areas. • Travel with a companion whenever possible; Travel in daylight hours if you must travel alone. • Familiarize yourself with the public transportation system to avoid appearing like a vulnerable tourist.

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HEALTH

FINANCES

• During long international flights, walk around the plane frequently to keep your circulation going and help avoid blood clots. Flex legs, feet and ankles in the seat.

• Be discreet when paying for something.

• Drink lots of water and avoid dehydration by limiting alcohol and caffeine intake. • Elastic support stockings may help reduce the danger of blood clots. • Carry medicines in prescription bottles with you in carry on luggage. If you may need refills carry prescriptions as well. • Take extra pairs of contacts or prescription lenses.

• Be cautious when withdrawing funds from ATM’s again being conscious of people around you.

• Have an emergency financial plan. For example, have a credit card which can be used in the event of unexpected expenses.

• Carry your HTH health insurance card with you at all times. • Consider purchasing individual cancellation insurance, which is not covered by the program fee.

• Do not buy food on the streets, unless it is commercially packaged. • Drink only bottled water unless the CDC guidelines and the program coordinators have indicated that tap water is safe to drink. • Follow CDC guidelines and recommendations by program coordinators regarding eating raw fruits and vegetables.

Check Out the Following Websites for Additional Safety & Health Tips American Citizens ServicesUS Department of State A Safe Trip Abroad US Department of State Travel Warnings Health Information for Travelers Deep Vein Thrombosis Traveler’s Diarrhea

DRESS • Dress to blend in with the local culture so as to avoid calling attention to yourself. Avoid American flags, university paraphernalia, tennis shoes, baseball caps, and other clothing that marks you as an American.

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Packing Tips Carry on baggage: Be sure to include all medications in their prescription containers and at least a change of underwear in your carry on luggage since it is not unusual to have bags arrive later than you do! Liquids: Liquids, gels and/or aerosols in carry-on bags must fit in one clear, re-sealable quart-sized plastic bag. The TSA’s 3-1-1 rule describes specific requirements for bringing liquids through security checkpoints: 3 ounce bottles or less; 1 quart-sized, clear, plastic, zip-top bag; 1 bag per passenger placed in screening bin. Plastic bags must be completely sealed and will be x-rayed at the security checkpoint separately. The following items are allowed, but must be presented to officials at security checkpoints if they are not contained in clear plastic bags or are of greater volume than 3oz. • Medications (liquid, gel or aerosol) • Liquids, juices or gels for diabetic passengers who indicate a need for such items to address their medical condition. (A letter from your physician is not necessary). Luggage: Travel light! You will be handling your own luggage, often in very crowded circumstances. We ask that you limit your luggage to one checked bag and one carry-on bag. Airlines have varying regulations and fees related to baggage; please check your carrier’s website for specifics. Once you pack, walk around the block with your luggage to be sure you are comfortable porting your bags. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) website is a good resource for and what to pack, along with updates on restrictions: https://www.tsa.gov/travel. Clothes: Business or business casual clothing will be appropriate for meetings with government officials and site visits. Semi-casual dress will be fine for days when we are sightseeing and traveling. Plan to layer clothing since weather can be changeable and unpredictable. Take clothes which are wrinkle resistant, hand washable, darker colors (to hide dirt), quick drying, interchangeable. Also, don’t worry about wearing the same clothes several times. Others will be doing the same thing!

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Packing Checklist o Passport o Ticket o

Debit/Credit Card (Let your bank know your travel plans to avoid hassles)

o Cell Phone (Check with your service provider) o

Watch/Travel Alarm Clock (especially if you are not bringing your cell phone, in order to stay on time)

Lightweight Flashlight

Medical/Health supplies, including: bandaids, OTC diarrhea medication, Tylenol/Aspirin, etc.

Medications in their prescription containers for the entire trip/copy of prescriptions if you anticipate needing refills

Wash-and-dry towelettes or hand sanitizer

Insurance card and claim form (Provided by CIU staff)

Business clothes for educational programming; casual dress for sightseeing and free time.

Raincoat/jacket or umbrella

1 pair of comfortable business shoes

1 pair of comfortable walking shoes

Extra pair of glasses or contact lenses, and a copy of your lens prescription

Copy of the first page of your passport (as well as visas, if applicable) stored separately from your passport

Electric converter and/or adaptor if you want to use electrical devices

Washcloth (these may not be available in hotels)

Camera/memory card

o Journal for keeping notes and observations o Cosmetics o

Earplugs, especially if you are a light sleeper

Toilet paper or tissues for use in public toilets

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Health Insurance Abroad The participant program fee covers international health insurance through HTH Worldwide Insurance Services. This policy is valid while abroad, for the dates listed on your HTH Medical Insurance ID card. Should your travel plans go beyond the dates of the program, contact CIU to extend your health coverage. This policy covers health only. You are advised to seriously consider purchasing lost baggage and/or trip cancellation insurance since CIU is not responsible for the cost of missed flights for illness or other reasons.

Please carry your HTH Worldwide Insurance ID card and claim form with you at all times while traveling abroad in the event of a health emergency.

The Plan features HTH Worldwideâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Global Health and Safety Services- online tools and toll-free assistance to help members manage their health and safety risks, from finding the right doctor to receiving real-time alerts and advice on health and security threats. Visit the HTH website for these resources and for additional information.

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IN AN EMERGENCY, SEEK APPROPRIATE MEDICAL CARE DIRECTLY AND THEN CALL HTH WORLDWIDE . Ask the CIU program coordinator or local contact person for health care provider suggestions. Or call HTH Worldwide directly for referrals to doctors or hospitals. Once at the health care provider, present the insurance card as proof of coverage.

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THE PLAN COVERS EMERGENCY MEDICAL EVACUATIONS AND REPATRIATIONS WHICH ARE SUBJECT TO THE PRIOR APPROVAL OF HTH WORLDWIDE INSURANCE SERVICES.

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Map of Singapore

Did you know?

Singapore was named Singapura which means Lion City but there were never lions on Singapore.

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Map of Japan

Did you know? Japan has one of the highest literacy rates in the world with 99% literacy in children over 15 years old. 30

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Companies & Organizations Japan

Singapore

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Recommended Resources Japan (Click on the images and names to learn more)

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Singapore (Click on the images and names to learn more)

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Travel & Cultural Resources Japan (Click on the images and names to learn more)

Singapore

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The Values Americans Live By by L. Robert Kohls Introduction Most Americans would have a difficult time telling you, specifically, what the values are which Americans live by. They have never given the matter any thought. Even if Americans had considered this question, they would probably, in the end, decide not to answer in terms of a definitive list of values. The reason for this decision is itself one very American value -- their belief that every individual is so unique that the same list of values could never be applied to all, or even most, of their fellow citizens. Although Americans may think of themselves as being more varied and unpredictable than they actually are, it is significant that they think they are. Americans tend to think they have been only slightly influenced by family, church, or schools. In the end, each believes, “I personally chose which values I want to live my own life by.” Despite this self-evaluation, a foreign anthropologist could observe Americans and produce a list of common values which would fit most Americans. The list of typically American values would stand in sharp contrast to the values commonly held by the people of many other countries. We, the staff of the Washington International Center, have been introducing thousands of international visitors to life in the United States for more than a third of a century. This has caused us to try to look at Americans through the eyes of our visitors. We feel confident that the values listed in this booklet describe most (but not all) Americans. Furthermore, we can say that if the foreign visitor really understood how deeply ingrained these 13 values are in Americans, he or she would then be able to understand 95% of American actions -- actions which might otherwise appear strange, confusing, or unbelievable when evaluated from the perspective of the foreigner’s own society and its values. The different behaviors of a people or a culture make sense only when seen through the basic beliefs, assumptions and values of that particular group. When you encounter an action, or hear a statement in the United States which surprises you, try to see it as an expression of one or more of the values listed in this booklet. For example, when you ask Americans for directions to get to a particular address in their own city, they may explain, in great detail, how you can get there on your own, but may never even consider walking two city blocks with you to lead you to the place. Some foreign visitors have interpreted this sort of action as showing Americans’ “unfriendliness”. We would suggest, instead, that the self-help concept (value number 6 on our list), is so strong in Americans that they firmly believe that no adult would ever want, even temporarily, to be dependent on another. Also, their future orientation (value 8) makes Americans think it is better to prepare you to find other addresses on your own in the future. Before proceeding to the list itself, we should also point out that Americans see all of these values as very positive ones. They are not aware, for example, that the people of many Third World countries view change (value 2) negative or threatening. In fact, all 13 of these American values are judged by many of the world’s citizens as negative and undesirable. Therefore, it is not enough simply to familiarize yourself with these values. You must also, so far as possible, consider them without the negative or derogatory connotation which they might have for you, based on your own experience and cultural identity.

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It is important to state emphatically that our purpose in providing you with this list of the most important American values is not to convert you, the foreign visitor, to our values. We couldn’t achieve that goal even if we wanted to, and we don’t want to. We simply want to help you understand the Americans with whom you will be relating -from their own value system rather than from yours. L. Robert Kohls, Executive Director, The Washington International Center, Washington, D.C., April 1984

The Values Americans Live By 1. Personal Control Over the Environment Americans no longer believe in the power of Fate, and they have come to look at people who do as being backward, primitive, or hopelessly naive. To be called “fatalistic” is one of the worst criticisms one can receive in the American context; to an American, it means one is superstitious and lazy, unwilling to take any initiative in bringing about improvements. In the United States people consider it normal and right that Man should control Nature, rather than the other way around. More Americans find it impossible to accept that there are some things which lie beyond the power of humans to achieve. And Americans have literally gone to the moon, because they refused to accept earthly limitations. Americans seem to be challenged, even compelled, to do, by one means or another (and often at great cost) what seven-eighths of the world is certain cannot be done. 2. Change In the American mind, change is seen as an indisputably good condition. Change is strongly linked to development, improvement, progress, and growth. Many older, more traditional cultures consider change as a disruptive, destructive force, to be avoided if at all possible. Instead of change, such societies value stability, continuity, tradition, and a rich and ancient heritage -none of which are valued very much in the United States. These first two values -the belief that we can do anything and the belief that any change is good -together with an American belief in the virtue of hard work and the belief that each individual has a responsibility to do the best he or she can do have helped Americans achieve some great accomplishments. So whether these beliefs are “true” is really irrelevant; what is important is that Americans have considered them to be true and have acted as if they were, thus, in effect, causing them to happen. 3. Time and its Control Time is, for the average American, of utmost importance. To the foreign visitor, Americans seem to be more concerned with getting things accomplished on time (according to a predetermined schedule) than they are with developing deep interpersonal relations. Schedules, for the American, are meant to be planned and then followed in the smallest detail.

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It may seem to you that most Americans are completely controlled by the little machines they wear on their wrists, cutting their discussions off abruptly to make it to their next appointment on time. Americans’ language is filled with references to time, giving a clear indication of how much it is valued. Time is something to be “on,”to be “kept,” “filled,” “saved,” “used,” “spent,” “wasted,” “lost,” “gained,” “planned,” “given,” “made the most of,” even “killed.” The international visitor soon learns that it is considered very rude to be late -even by 10 minutes -for an appointment in the United States. (Whenever it is absolutely impossible to be on time, you should phone ahead and tell the person you have been unavoidably detained and will be a half hour -or whatever -late.) Time is so valued in America, because by considering time to be important one can clearly accomplish more than if one “wastes” time and does not keep busy. This philosophy has proven its worth. It has enabled Americans to be extremely productive, and productivity itself is highly valued in the United States. Many American proverbs stress the value in guarding our time, using it wisely, setting and working toward specific goals, and even expending our time and energy today so that the fruits of our labor may be enjoyed at a later time. (This latter concept is called “delayed gratification.”) 4. Equality/Egalitarianism Equality is, for Americans, one of their most cherished values. This concept is so important for Americans that they have even given it a religious basis. They say all people have been “created equal.” Most Americans believe that God views all humans alike without regard to intelligence, physical condition or economic status. In secular terms this belief is translated into the assertion that all people have an equal opportunity to succeed in life. Americans differ in opinion about how to make this ideal into a reality. Yet virtually all agree that equality is an important civic and social goal. The equality concept often makes Americans seem strange to foreign visitors. Seven-eighths of the world feels quite differently. To them, rank and status and authority are seen as much more desirable considerations -even if they personally happen to find themselves near the bottom of the social order. Class and authority seem to give people in those other societies a sense of security and certainty. People outside the United States consider it reassuring to know, from birth, who they are and where they fit into the complex system called “society.” Many highly-placed foreign visitors to the United States are insulted by the way they are treated by service personnel (such as waiters in restaurants, clerks in stores, taxi drivers, etc.) Americans have an aversion to treating people of high position in a deferential manner, and conversely, often treat lower class people as if they were very important. Newcomers to the United States should realize that no insult or personal indignity is intended by this lack of deference to rank or position in society. A foreigner should be prepared to be considered “just like anybody else” while in the country. 5. Individualism and Privacy The individualism which has been developed in the western world since the Renaissance, beginning in the late 15th century, has taken its most exaggerated form in 20th century United States. Here, each individual is seen as completely and marvelously unique, that is, totally different from all other individuals and, therefore, particularly precious and wonderful. The Center for International Understanding

Americans think they are more individualistic in their thoughts and actions than, in fact, they are. They resist being thought of as representatives of a homogeneous group, whatever the group. They may, and do, join groups -- in fact many groups -- but somehow believe they’re just a little unique, just a little special, from other members of the same group. And they tend to leave groups as easily as they enter them. Privacy, the ultimate result of individualism is perhaps even more difficult for the foreigner to comprehend. The word “privacy” does not even exist in many languages. Ifit does, it is likely to have a strongly negative connotation, suggesting loneliness or isolation from the group. Inthe United States, privacy is not only seen as a very positive condition, but it is also viewed as a requirement which all humans would find equally necessary, desirable and satisfying. It is not uncommon for Americans to say -- and believe -- such statements as “If I don’t have at least half an hour a day to myself, I will go stark raving mad!” Individualism, as it exists in the United States, does mean that you will find a much greater variety of opinions (along with the absolute freedom to express them anywhere and anytime) here. Yet, in spite of this wide range of personal opinion, almost all Americans will ultimately vote for one of the two major political parties. This is what was meant by the statement made earlier that Americans take pride in crediting themselves with claiming more individualism than, in fact, they really have. 6. Self-Help Concept In the United States, a person can take credit only for what be or she has accomplished by himself or herself. Americans get no credit whatsoever for having been born into a rich family. (In the United States, that would be considered an “accident of birth.”) Americans pride themselves in having been born poor and, through their own sacrifice and hard work, having climbed the difficult ladder of success to whatever level they have achieved -- all by themselves. The American social system has, of course, made it possible for Americans to move, relatively easily, up the social ladder. Take a look in an English-language dictionary at the composite words that have the word “self’’ as a prefix. In the average desk dictionary, there will be more than 100 such words, words like self-confidence, self-conscious, self-contented, self-control, self-criticism, self-deception, self-defeating, self-denial, self-discipline, self-esteem, selfexpression, selfimportance, self-improvement, self-interest, self-reliance, self-respect, self-restraint, selfsacrifice -the list goes on and on. The equivalent of these words cannot be found in most other languages. This list is perhaps the best indication of how seriously Americans take doing things for one’s self. The “self-made man or woman” is still very much the ideal in 20th-century America. 7. Competition and Free Enterprise Americans believe that competition brings out the best in any individual. They assert that it challenges or forces each person to produce the very best that is humanly possible. Consequently, the foreign visitor will see competition being fostered in the American home and in the American classroom, even on the youngest age levels. Very young children , for instance, are encouraged to answer questions for which their classmates do not know the answers. You may find the competitive value disagreeable, especially if you come from a society which promotes cooperation rather than competition. But many U.S. Peace Corps volunteers teaching in Third World countries found the lack of competitiveness in a classroom situation equally distressing. They soon learned that what they had

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thought to be one of the universal human characteristics represented only a peculiarly American (or Western) value. Americans, valuing competition, have devised an economic system to go with it -free enterprise. Americans feel very strongly that a highly competitive economy will bring out the best in its people and ultimately, that the society which fosters competition will progress most rapidly. Ifyou look for it, you will see evidence in all areas -- even in fields as diverse as medicine, the arts, education, and sports -that free enterprise is the approach most often preferred in America. 8. Future Orientation Valuing the future and the improvements Americans are sure the future will bring means that they devalue the past and are, to a large extent, unconscious of the present. Even a happy present goes largely unnoticed because, happy as it may be, Americans have traditionally been hopeful that the future would bring even greater happiness. Almost all energy is directed toward realizing that better future. At best, the present condition is seen as preparatory to a later and greater event, which will eventually culminate in something even more worthwhile. Since Americans have been taught (in value #1) to believe that Man, and not Fate, can and should be the one who controls the environment, this has made them very good at planning and executing short-term projects. This ability, in turn, has caused Americans to be invited to all corners of the earth to plan and achieve the miracles which their goalsetting can produce. If you come from a culture such as those in the traditional Moslem world, where talking about or actively planning the future is felt to be futile, even sinful, activity, you will have not only philosophical problems with this very American characteristic but religious objections as well. Yet it is something you will have to learn to live with, for all around you Americans will be looking toward the future and what it will bring. 9. Action/Work Orientation “Don’t just stand there,” goes a typical bit of American advice, “do something!” This expression is normally used in a crisis situation, yet, in a sense, it describes most Americans’ entire waking life, where action -- any action -- is seen to be superior to inaction. Americans routinely plan and schedule an extremely active day. Any relaxation must be limited in time, pre-planned, and aimed at “recreating” their ability to work harder and more productively once the recreation is over. Americans believe leisure activities should assume a relatively small portion of one’s total life. People think that it is “sinful” to “waste one’s time,” “to sit around doing nothing,” or just to “daydream.” Such a “no nonsense” attitude toward life has created many people who have come to be known as “workaholics,” or people who are addicted to their work, who think constantly about their jobs and who are frustrated if they are kept away from them, even during their evening hours and weekends. The workaholic syndrome, in turn, causes Americans to identify themselves wholly with their professions. The first question one American will ask another American when meeting for the first time is related to his or her work: “What do you do?,””Where do you work?,”or “Who (what company) are you with?”

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And when such a person finally goes on vacation, even the vacation will be carefully planned, very busy and active. America may be one of the few countries in the world where it seems reasonable to speak about the “dignity of human labor,” meaning by that, hard, physical labor. In America, even corporation presidents will engage in physical labor from time to time and gain, rather than lose, respect from others for such action. 10. Informality If you come from a more formal society, you will likely find Americans to be extremely informal, and you will probably feel, even disrespectful of those in authority. Americans are one of the most informal and casual people in the world, even when compared to their near relative -- the Western European. As one example of this informality, American bosses often urge their employees to call them by their first names and even feel uncomfortable if they are called by the title “Mr.” or “Mrs.” Dress is another area where American informality will be most noticeable, perhaps even shocking. One can go to a symphony performance, for example, in any large American city nowadays and find some people in the audience dressed in blue jeans and tieless, short-sleeved shirts. Informality is also apparent in Americans’ greetings. The more formal “How are you?” has largely been replaced with an informal “Hi.” This is as likely to be used to one’s superior as to one’s best friend. If you are a highly placed official in your own country, you will probably, at first, find such informality to be very unsettling. Americans, on the other hand, would consider such informality as a compliment! Certainly it is not intended as an insult and should not be taken as such. 11. Directness, Openness and Honesty Many other countries have developed subtle, sometimes highly ritualistic, ways of informing other people of unpleasant information. Americans, however, have always preferred the direct approach. They are likely to be completely honest in delivering their negative evaluations. If you come from a society which uses tbe indirect manner of conveying bad news or uncomplimentary evaluations, you will be shocked at Americans’ bluntness. If you come from a country where saving face is important, be assured that Americans are not trying to make you lose face with their directness. It is important to realize that an American would not, in such cases, lose face. The burden of adjustment, in all cases while you are in this country, will be on you. There is no way to soften the blow of such directness and openness if you are not used to it except to tell you that the rules have changed while you are here. Indeed, Americans are trying to urge their fellow countrymen to become even more open and direct. The large number of “assertiveness” training courses which appeared in the United States in the late 1970s reflects such a commitment. Americans consider anything other than the most direct and open approach to be dishonest and insincere and will quickly lose confidence in and distrust for anyone who hints at what is intended rather than saying it outright. Anyone who, in the United States, chooses to use an intermediary to deliver the message will also be considered manipulative and untrustworthy.

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12. Practicality and Efficiency Americans have a reputation of being an extremely realistic, practical and efficient people. The practical consideration is likely to be given highest priority in making any important decision in the United States. Americans pride themselves in not being very philosophically or theoretically oriented. If Americans would even admit to having a philosophy, it would probably be that of pragmatism. Will it make any money? Will it “pay its own way?” What can I gain from this activity? These are the kinds of questions which Americans are likely to ask in their practical pursuit, not such questions as: Is it aesthetically pleasing? Will it be enjoyable?, or Will it advance the cause of knowledge? This practical, pragmatic orientation has caused Americans to contribute more inventions to the world than any other country in human history. The love of “practicality” has also caused Americans to view some professions more favorably than others. Management and economics, for example, are much more popular inthe United States than philosophy or anthropology, law and medicine more valued than the arts. Another way in which this favoring of the practical makes itself felt in the United Sates, is a belittling of “emotional” and “subjective” evaluations in favor of “rational” and “objective” assessments. Americans try to avoid being too sentimental in making their decisions. They judge every situation “on its merits.” The popular American “trial-anderror” approach to problem-solving also reflects the practical. This approach suggests listing several possible solutions to any given problem, then trying them out, one-by-one, to see which is most effective. 13. Materialism/ Acquisitions Foreigners generally consider Americans much more materialistic than Americans are likely to consider themselves. Americans would like to think that their material objects arejust the natural benefits which always result from hard work and serious intent -- a reward, they think, which all people could enjoy were they as industrious and hard working as Americans. But by any standard, Americans are materialistic. This means that they value and collect more material objects than most people would ever dream of owning. It also means they give higher priority to obtaining, maintaining and protecting their material objects than they do in developing and enjoying interpersonal relationships. The modern American typically owns: • one or more color television sets, •

an electric hair dryer,

•

an electronic calculator,

•

a tape recorder and a record player,

•

a clothes-washer and dryer,

•

a vacuum cleaner,

• and a telephone. • one or more automobiles, Many also own a personal computer.

• a powered lawn mower (for cutting grass), • a refrigerator, a stove and a dish-washer

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Since Americans value newness and innovation, they sell or throw away their possessions frequently and replace them with newer ones. A car may be kept for only two or three years, a house for five or six before trading it in for another one.

Summary Now that we have discussed each of these 13 values separately, if all too briefly, let us look at them in list form (on the left) and then consider them paired with the counterpart values from a more traditional country (on the right: U.S. Values Personal Control over the Environment Change Time and Its Control Equality Individualism/Privacy Self-Help Competition Future Orientation Action/Work Orientation Informality Directness/Openness/Honesty Practicality/Efficiency Materialism/ Acquisitiveness

Some Other Country’s Values Fate Tradition Human Interaction Hierarchy/R.ank/Status Group’s Welfare Birthright Inheritance Cooperation Past Orientation “Being” Orientation Formality Indirectness/R.itual/”Face” Idealism Spiritualism/Detachment

Meridian House International 1984

Which list more nearly represents the values of your native country?

Application Before leaving this discussion of the values Americans live by, consider how knowledge of these values explains many things about Americans. One can, for example, see America’ s impressive record of scientific and technological achievement as a natural result of several of these 13 values. First of all, it was necessary to believe (1) these things could be achieved, that Man does not have to simply sit and wait for Fate to bestow them or not bestow them, and that Man does have control over his own environment, if he is willing to take it. Other values which have contributed to this record of achievement include (2) an expectation of positive results to come from change (and the acceptance of an ever-faster rate of change as “normal!’; (3) the necessity to schedule and plan one’s time; (6} the self-help conceptf (7J competition; (8) future orientation; (9) action work orientation; (12) practicality; and (13) materialism. You can do the same sort of exercise as you consider other aspects of American society and analyze them to see which of the 13 values described in this booklet apply. By using this approach you will soon begin to understand Americans and their actions. And as you come to understand them, they will seem less “strange” than they did at first.

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