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Maya: Thanks for all your help, Ron. (1) You did a really great job working with us this week.
Ron: Thanks. (2) It's been a great experience working here with you and the team.
Maya: So, (3) how was your first stay in Japan?
Ron: It was great. The food, the people, the culture - everything was awesome. And all the old temples and shrines I got to visit were beautiful. (4) Speaking of which, (5) that huge tower I saw from a temple in Asakusa is just amazing!
Maya: Oh, you mean the "Sky Tree"? Yep, that's going to be Tokyo's newest landmark.
Ron: Yeah, and I had some other "interesting" experiences as well. . .
Maya: (6) What do you mean?
Ron: Well, (7) earlier in the week I happened to offer my seat to (8) an elderly woman. You know, on my way in to the office.
Maya: (9) That was nice of you.
Ron: Yeah, but she kept apologizing and it felt really awkward . . . It was almost as if I shouldn't have done that.
Maya: Oh, really? Are you sure?
Ron: And bowing too, (10) every time she said "sumimasen." That means "sorry," right?
Maya: Ah, but "sumimasen" could also be used as "thank you." Hmm. . . that's strange, now that you mention it.
Ron: Can't forget those automatic doors on the taxis either. Cool invention. . . even though I jammed my finger because of it.
Maya: That's one thing I missed when I went to the States. How could people stand having to open those doors themselves when they've got massive shopping bags in their hands?
Ron: There are so many different services in Japan you'd never find in my country. Plus, the shop staff are always so nice and kind to you — cheerful and friendly.
Maya: Well, I'm glad you have a lot of good stories to tell your friends about Japan. And remember to open that door when you take a taxi back home!
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