How to smuggle cheese by Our Little Sister in Abiko

Posts might get a bit sporadic and lightweight round here (so, same as usual then, huh?) because Our Man's Little Sister is visiting from Blighty and Our Man has to prioritize, OK? So, forget the super important thing (you know, the Japanese General Election on August 30th, remember?) it's time to impart some imported wisdom from Our Lil Sis in Abiko. Duck, bullets incoming:

1. When smuggling in Red Leicester and Davidstow Cheddar, wrapping the blocks in foil ("to fool the cheese dogs") tends to get them flagged up on the Heathrow anti-bomb x-ray machines.

2. There are more classes in All Nippon Airways than the Indian caste system. While staring blankly at the various lines at the check-in counter, Our Lil Sis was shunted into the queue for the "Premier Economy", distinct from the Economy, Business, Premier Business, Premium Business and First Class, and really really Top Class First Class.

3. Being bumped up to Premier Economy (for no apparent reason) means you get an uncomfortably large seat, slippers, a curtain to separate you from the untouchables in economy and your choice of fish or chicken is presented to you on a La-di-da menu.

4. Being told incessantly in two languages the bleeding obvious - to fasten your seat belt - is not conducive to sleep.

5. When told to show your bag of toiletries in a clear plastic bag (this prevents terrorism), do not mistakenly show your bag of sanitary towels (this does not prevent terrorism).

That is all, for now. Cheese pic lifted from here.