Thanks for your story - it was good to read another account. My experience was similar, as I was one of the few volunteers selected to go over to help with Equestrian events, since the Japanese don't have the expertise we and the Brits and Americans have. However, due to a stuff-up with my entry permit at the Japanese end, I spent 12 hours at Narita, after a 26 hour day, before they would let me in. I then had to go into full hotel quarantine for 8 days before I could go to my venue, so the roster I was on went out the window! I travelled SIA both ways, with long layovers in that little piece of Changi at T3. It was sad to see what used to be my favourite airport so deserted and I felt the transit lounge was not well thought out. You obviously went Business, but for Economy passengers the tiny area had nothing to commend it - a few recliner lounges, similar to those I use in my garden, a TV and armchairs and a charging station with WiFi. The food was non-existent and coffee came out of a pump pot! There were vending machines which did not work and limited food could be ordered from the few remaining cafes that were open, but it took an hour to arrive. The final blow was the lack of duty free sales at Changi! Although you could purchase limited alcohol in Tokyo, it was almost retail price and it could not be taken to Australia because the packaging apparently was not acceptable, so I heard stories of those who had hoped to refill the booze cupboard having it taken away on arrival in Singapore. I agree, SIA service was good, as always, but we were left to our own devices for most of the time and the one meal served was not sufficient for a 7 hour flight. Economy passengers were offered a goodie bag of chips and chocolate or a muesli bar on take off which had to last until breakfast time. However, the plane was nearly empty, so I had several rows to myself and could stretch out for a nap if I wished.
Once in Japan, the experience was interesting and I agree with your comments about the volunteers - the people were friendly and polite and really appreciated us being there. My hotel was in Shibuya and there were a few protests there when we first arrived, but these died down once the Games got going.
I was very apprehensive about going but I'm glad I did, although I regret not being able to do any sightseeing - we were only allowed to travel between our hotel and the venue and could not use restaurants or public transport. It was my first time in Japan and I definitely will go back - and probably even stay in the same hotel, as it was fairly new, comfortable and the staff were great, despite having very little English.
The quarantine experience on arrival home was somewhat daunting when the police escorted us from the airport and we were shut into the hotel room for the next 14 days, but again, helpful staff made it easier and the food was excellent - and too plentiful. I had been dreading it, as I get claustrophobic and had a bad time shut up in Tokyo, but luckily I was given a room with a balcony, which made all the difference. Street visits from my other half, who left emergency (wine!) supplies, did help...
Altogether, an experience like no other, so we were lucky to get there - and back!
