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In reply to the discussion: I've been working in Asia these past 2 weeks [View all]betsuni
(26,371 posts)In my neighborhood (in Japan), there's a bus terminal down the street, subway stop three blocks away, train station a fifteen minute walk. I can walk to do most of my shopping, sidewalks everywhere because people walk and ride bikes. Yesterday during a drive to the countryside, from the highway I saw local trains connecting all the little towns along the cherry blossom-lined river. Compared to the States, these towns are amazingly healthy (although because of the low birth rate fewer young people than old of course). There's still manufacturing (both small and large factories), small farms (and gardens), generations living together, healthy food. I've noticed many solar power fields in the last couple of years. My husband's young niece and nephew love their town, never want to leave and no reason they have to. The middle class is alive and well.
Oh, and last week I went to a local clinic. Didn't have an appointment, took a number, waited about 20 minutes to see a doctor. Visit and medicine cost around sixteen dollars.
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