"Riding the "Okinawa Wave" Around the World" okinawa_wave's Profile

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Okinawa

Although I have been to 23 different countries, my heart will always belong to Okinawa. I love the turquoise East China Sea, colorful culture, friendly people, and island lifestyle. There are many other places where I could find the same things, and in some situations even better, but I love Okinawa because my roots are connected here. My grandparents are Okinawan, which inspired me to leave the United States and come here to live. I have been here for almost 15 years, and I have no plans to leave. I think that Okinawa also has a lot to offer for travelers looking to experience Asia. It is exotic but safe. It is modern but traditional. It is part of Japan but it has its own unique history and culture. These things intrigued me so much during my early years here that I decided to write a guidebook about Okinawa, which was published in 2005. I hope that my travel page inspires others to come here or hopefully even just spark a little curiosity about this wonderful island. <http://www.okinawaexplorer.com>

Things I enjoy...

My kayak

I really love the ocean - gliding over the glistening sea on a sunny day in my kayak or snorkeling amongst the colorful fish and coral is like magic. I do this often with my wife and friends.

I also co-founded an NPO called Okinawa O.C.E.A.N. with my friend and compadre Edwardo Heinrich-Sanchez to help facilitate marine conservation through action and teaching kids about the marine environment . Although I currently not active within the group, I still have a keen interest in environmental issues. Please stop by and visit Eduardo and the rest of the Okinawa O.C.E.A.N. members if you have a chance. <http://www.okinawaocean.org>

My wife...

Komaki...I love you!

My wife, Komaki, and I got married in 2005! She is an amazing woman who is part of my soul. I love her very much. We both love to travel and love Okinawa. We often wake up early and go for morning swims before work between April and October and for walks along the coast during the winter.

Thank you Komaki for reminding me everyday of how lucky I am!

In 2007, our son, Rukai, was born. He is a wonderful little boy and we truly enjoy every second with him. In 2011, our daughter, Joy, came into this world. We look forward to each and every new day with her...

Friends...

A sunrise...

One of the best things that I enjoy is swimming at the beach and camping with my family. I love watching the stars illuminate the sky at night while listening to the music of waves and rushing sand. There is nothing like waking up to a sunrise over the water when everything is still and the rays of sunlight turn the sky pink! Seeing the smile on my son's face as he splashes around in the water is like receiving a gift that no amount of money can buy...

Intro Updated Dec 25, 2011
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Personal Pages (1)

Written Mar 27, 2006

7 photos

Okinawa Moments with Friends and Family

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Comments (12)

adeeltahir Dec 23, 2010 at 8:48 AM Report Abuse

Wishing u HAPPY BIRTHDAY
kopwint Dec 23, 2008 at 10:22 PM Report Abuse

Happy birthday, and get great experiences in your special day, wish you get all what you want it in this X mas and new year, so as for me .that my wish you, freely happiness in your heart
LoriPori Jul 30, 2007 at 11:03 AM Report Abuse

Thanks Kenny for stopping by my new Greece page. It was an amazing place to visit. Love your HP. Greetings from Canada. Lori
shintarojon Jun 18, 2007 at 6:05 AM Report Abuse

hope to visit okinawa and hokkaido too! love japanese culture and food! just visited tokyo last june 3 to 16...
monosyllabicgrl Nov 22, 2006 at 12:42 AM Report Abuse

Hi! I read your advice on Okinawa since I'm heading there for Christmas and New Years, and thanks--it was super helpful! One ?: what's the name of the guide you wrote in 2005? I’d like to read it, since your site was so informative! Thanks again! -Julie
olddude Jun 19, 2006 at 11:50 PM Report Abuse

Thanks Kenny! Actually I am going to an izakaya tonight.
sirenna Jun 7, 2006 at 5:10 AM Report Abuse

Hi Kenny, thanks for dropping by my Boracay page. It's a shame the local authorities show so little interest in conserving the place...
frankcanfly May 23, 2006 at 5:11 AM Report Abuse

What's up Kenny?
kymbanm Apr 18, 2006 at 9:08 PM Report Abuse

I understand the lure of Okinawa ... I grew up there and still have dreams of the beach (and nightmares of the jellyfish) ... you are blessed to have such a wonderful wife and to realize your dream to returning to your family roots :)
kiwi Apr 18, 2006 at 8:50 PM Report Abuse

Hey Kenny, let me know when you come back ! I just got home from the mountains. back soon , Pam .