Wednesday, March 4, 2009

I'm updating the blog at a restaurant called Kangnam Station, awaiting my first Korean meal ever while watching Korean music videos.  There's a button in the corner of the table that I was told to push when ready to place my order.  The server promptly greeted me seconds later.  Another surprising thing about restaurants here is they don't expect tips or even have a place to include a tip on their credit card receipts.  I've asked native New Zealanders and they've assured me tips are not expected of any percentage at the restaurants.  The servers are paid a good hourly wage and don't depend on tips.  I ordered the Korean BBQ Chicken.  It came out sizzling on a plate with a bowl of rice and fiver other dishes of veggies, tofu, and other unknown surprises.  

The US $1 is worth $2 NZ dollars.  So I feel like everywhere I go they're having a 50% off sale!  I haven't bought anything other than a phone card (and already used it up to talk to my mom), food, and postcards since I've arrived in NZ.

I've been staying in Auckland City YHA (hostel) on Liverpool Rd. and enjoying it very much.  I'm meeting people from everywhere in the world.