IEEE International-Conference Trip in Hawaii and Las Vegas
- Authors
- Name
- ごとれん
- X
- @ren510dev
Index
- Index
- Introduction
- January 3: Leaving Japan
- January 3: Day 1
- January 4: Day 2
- January 5: Day 3
- January 6: Day 4
- January 7: Day 5
- January 8: Day 6
- January 9: Day 7
- January 10: Day 8
- January 11: Day 9
- January 12: Day 10
- January 13: Day 11
- January 14: Day 12
- January 15: Return to Japan
- Conclusion

Introduction
Hi there, Happy New Year! 🐉
I'm about to embark on a journey that's both for an IEEE international-conference and my graduation trip.
My destinations: Hawaii (Oahu) and Las Vegas, USA.
The International-Conference on Consumer Electronics (ICCE) and Consumer Communications & Networking Conference (CCNC) are academic conferences hosted by Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE). These events focus on discussing the latest research and technological advancements in consumer electronics and communication technologies.
Last year, my demonstration paper was accepted at CCNC 2024. I will be presenting the concept of the CYPHONIC adapter demonstration, which I've been researching and developing.
A few of my colleagues will also be presenting at the conference. After the international-conference, I plan to visit CES 2024 as well.
I'll be updating this blog daily as a travel diary.
Alright-off I go! ✈️
January 3: Leaving Japan
I left Japan early in the new year. Just the day before, a collision accident between two planes had occurred at Haneda Airport, and up until the last minute, it was uncertain whether I would be able to travel to the U.S.
Fortunately, international flights were unaffected on my departure day, so it seemed we could leave as scheduled. 😮💨
However, due to delays, the airport was packed with people.
This time, I was traveling to speak at a demonstration session, which meant I had to bring a lot of cables and devices through security. My luggage was excessive! On top of that, carrying so much equipment made security checks even more difficult, as I kept getting scrutinized...!
After finishing check-in, it's finally time to head to the lounge.
I enjoyed an all-you-can-eat a la carte menu and free-flowing wine, relaxing in the lounge until my flight. 🍾🍷
Hawaiian Airlines flight departed at 8:05 PM JST and arrived at 8:15 AM local time, marking the start of a roughly 7-hour journey. ✈️
January 3: Day 1
I came to Oahu, Hawaii for a transfer and vacation!
Even though only 7-hours had passed, it was still 8:00 AM local time. So sleepy...! Just incredibly sleepy. 🥱
- Outrigger Waikiki Paradise Hotel
- 150 Kaiulani Avenue, Honolulu, HI 96815, U.S.
We checked in at Hotel and headed to Waikiki Beach for some fun. Even though it was January, it was warm enough to swim in the ocean, making the weather very pleasant.
- Waikiki Beach
- Waikiki Beach, Honolulu, HI 96815, U.S.
I took a stroll along Kalakaua Ave and had a BBQ Chicken Bowl for lunch at Royal Waikiki L&L. It was quite filling and delicious!
The illuminations in the courtyard were absolutely beautiful. 🤩
- Royal Waikiki L&L
- 2233 Kalakaua Ave Suite B3, Honolulu, HI 96815, U.S.
The sunset view from my hotel was so relaxing!
The heated pool was completely empty, so we had it all to ourselves. Even though my conference was still five days away, I was already relaxing as if it were over.
January 4: Day 2
I was tired from the flight, so I slept soundly last night.
This morning, we enjoyed breakfast and coffee at a street cafe on Kalakaua Ave. I ordered berry pancakes and coffee. The pancakes were super sweet, and I especially loved the Kai coffee-definitely something I'd love to have again.
After that, we went to Waikiki Beach and had Pineapple Yacht. It was the perfect way to spend a relaxing day. 🏖️🍍
- Kalakaua Avenue
- Kalakaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815, U.S.
Tonight, we are departing for Las Vegas. For my last meal, I had dinner at a burger shop near the "Duke Kahanamoku Statue", a Hawaiian hero.
As always, the Hawaiian sunset was absolutely beautiful.
- Cheeseburger In Paradise Waikiki
- 2500 Kalakaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815, U.S.
Finally, it's time to head to NV, Las Vegas, the host city of the international-conference.
At 11:40 PM, I'll depart from Honolulu Airport for Harry Reid Airport in Las Vegas on a roughly 5-hour flight. ✈️
January 5: Day 3
In the early morning of January 5, we was flying over NV. The sunrise from the plane was absolutely mesmerizing.
The area surrounding Las Vegas is a vast desert. I remember clearly seeing Center-pivot irrigation, which is widely used in the Midwest and arid regions.
- Harry Reid International Airport
- 5757 Wayne Newton Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89119, U.S.
After arriving at the airport, we took a break at Starbucks Coffee.
Oops! The first unexpected situation happened here! The dorm I had booked was already full. It turned out to be an issue with the Airbnb host! 😡
Thanks to my travel companion's persistent complaint, we quickly secured another place to stay.
We arrived at the condominium, about 3-4 miles from the international-conference venue. The room even had a private shower, a bedroom, and a walk-in closet.
- Elysian at the Palms
- 3850 W Nevso Dr, Las Vegas, NV 89103, U.S.
After a while, we went shopping at Smith's along W Flamingo Rd. I was shocked by the high prices... 🤑
Since I wanted to enjoy a good life, I bought everything I wanted without hesitation.
After that, we went to the heated pool in the courtyard. There was also a jacuzzi, sofas, and even a TV!
It was practically empty every day, so I could fully enjoy it. We relaxed there and talked late into the night.
When it comes to America, it's all about steak! We cooked a meal in the kitchen.
Steak, shrimp cocktail, salad... and more! The red meat has an unforgettable taste.
January 6: Day 4
We also made our own breakfast.
The croissants were absolutely delicious. And of course, coffee was a must!
After breakfast, we went to check out the international-conference venue. CCNC 2024 will be held at the Flamingo Hotel.
The room where we'll be presenting our demonstration was huge, and I was overwhelmed.
- Flamingo Las Vegas Hotel & Casino
- 3555 Las Vegas Blvd S, Las Vegas, NV 89109, U.S.
At another venue, ICCE 2024 had already begun. Since a member of our research team was presenting, we went to listen.
Intercommunication Method Between Local Edge Computing Devices Using QUIC-Based CYPHONIC
- Graduate School of Science and Technology, Meijo University, Nagoya, Japan
- Shota Horisaki; Kazushige Matama; Ren Goto; Katsuhiro Naito; Hidekazu Suzuki
Internet of Things (IoT) devices are installed in various locations to realize smart cities, smart factories, smart homes, etc., and are connected to the Internet for data communication. Most current IoT systems are built on a client-server model using servers built on the cloud. On the other hand, edge computing services are increasing and there are still demands to manage sensitive data in a local environment, and a local edge computing is emerging as a new concept to address these demands. Next-generation IoT services are expected to increase the importance of interoperability between different IoT systems, and connectivity to the local edge computing environment will be required. The authors have proposed QUIC-based CYPHONIC (CYber PHysical Overlay Network over Internet Communication) as a communication architecture that simultaneously achieves communication connectivity and mobility transparency in a mixed IPv4/IPv6 environment. This paper shows that QUIC-based CYPHONIC can be used to realize end-to-end encrypted communication between local edge devices located in different local networks over the actual Internet environment with practically acceptable performance.
This research demonstrated that by using QUIC-based CYber PHysical Overlay Network over Internet Communication (CYPHONIC), edge devices located in different local networks can communicate securely and transparently. This makes it easier to implement next-generation IoT services leveraging edge computing.
CYPHONIC can be applied to various scenarios, such as smart cities, smart factories, and smart homes, significantly contributing to the future development of IoT technology.
- Tuscany Suites & Casino
- 255 E Flamingo Rd, Las Vegas, NV 89169, U.S.
After the conference, we went to see the Christmas tree at the Bellagio Hotel and had a small celebration at Gordon Ramsay Burger in Planet Hollywood Resort. As always, the burgers and fries were loaded with calories!
- Gordon Ramsay Burger Restaurants
- Planet Hollywood Resort, 3667 Las Vegas Blvd S, Las Vegas, NV 89109, U.S.
We took a walk along Blvd near Planet Hollywood. The city looked so beautiful, like something straight out of a painting.
Starting tomorrow, CCNC 2024 finally begins!
- Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino
- 3667 Las Vegas Blvd S, Las Vegas, NV 89109, U.S.
January 7: Day 5
Before heading to the Flamingo Hotel, we stopped by the Venetian Palazzo Hotel. The Venetian is a hotel designed after Venice, the water city of Italy.
The hotel was so gorgeously built that it truly felt like being in Europe. Inside, there was a realistic canal inspired by Venice, complete with kayaks.
- Venetian Palazzo Hotel
- 3355 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109, U.S.
We arrived at the Flamingo Hotel. As the name suggests, there were actual flamingos in the hotel's garden. 🦩
First, there was a technical paper track at CCNC 2024. Since a colleague from CyberAgent was presenting, I went to listen.
Network-Transparent Load Balancing and Migration for Edge Computing
- Graduate School of Science and Technology, Keio University, Kanagawa, Japan
- Yohei Namba; Ryo Morishima; Hiroaki Nishi
The network infrastructure in a smart community uses the cloud and compute servers, and the edge and fog areas to perform processing in the optimal place. Nodes in the edge and fog areas have various processing capacities, and there must be load-balancing mechanisms to meet the requirements of applications. However, Internet of Things (IoT) devices are generally small, computationally constrained, and numerous, so reconfiguration and functionality updates for the network must be kept to a minimum. In addition, if nodes establish connections with other nodes to exchange their information, the number of connections will be large, and communication costs will be high. In this study, we use nodes called “Distributor” that can monitor data flow through the network without changing the existing infrastructure. Piggyback technique is used to add information onto the packets flowing in the network. Distributors add the information to the packets and exchange information to each other without establishing connections with other nodes, and they perform load balancing based on the information. By changing and migrating the processing locations among Distributors, IoT devices can continue to communicate with other nodes even during load balancing. Experiments confirmed that load balancing could be performed to prepare for sudden load increases and that the impact of piggybacking on occupied bandwidth and processing delay was 0.177% and 0.06%, respectively. We also confirmed that sensor data can be sent without reconnecting communications, even during load balancing.
This research explains how network infrastructure within a smart community utilizes the cloud, compute servers, edge regions, and fog regions to process data in the most optimal location.
However, since the processing capabilities of edge and fog nodes vary, load balancing is necessary to meet the requirements of each application.
In this study, a node called Distributor is introduced to monitor network data flow while achieving load balancing without modifying the existing infrastructure. Specifically, it utilizes piggyback technology to attach additional information to packets flowing through the network, enabling nodes to exchange information without direct connections.
After attending a few more presentations, I went to the poster session. A junior of my colleague was scheduled to present there.
Proposal of Differential Privacy Anonymization for IoT Applications Using MQTT Broker
- Graduate School of Science and Technology, Keio University, Kanagawa, Japan
- Kentaro Morise; Tokimasa Toyohara
IoT applications require secure communication methods that protect personal information contained in communication data. This study focuses on MQTT, a low-cost protocol used for IoT communication, and proposes a mechanism to anonymize communication data between IoT and clients. MQTT is a publish-subscribe model of communication where a broker handles many-to-many communications among clients. Due to the concentration of communications on the broker, it is efficient to anonymize data there. Therefore, the proposed mechanism performs differential privacy anonymization of communication data on the MQTT broker. We also propose a mechanism to anonymize data according to anonymization criteria required by senders and receivers using topic names and user properties, which are features of MQTT. We implemented the proposed mechanism in an FPGA-based MQTT broker and confirmed that it achieves the same throughput and low latency as regular MQTT communication and satisfies IoT applications such as power control and automated driving that require sub-millisecond latency.
This research proposes a mechanism to anonymize the communication data of the Message Queuing Telemetry Transport (MQTT) protocol to ensure secure communication for IoT applications. Specifically, it explores an approach suitable for IoT environments where personal data protection is required.
An MQTT broker was implemented using Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) to evaluate the performance of the proposed method. It was reported that the method can maintain the same throughput and low latency as conventional MQTT. Additionally, it was confirmed that the approach works properly even for applications requiring sub-millisecond latency, such as power control and autonomous driving.
After all the sessions ended, there was a reception party. I mingled with students from other universities while enjoying drinks and a la carte dishes!
Finally, we went back to the Venetian Hotel and took some photos. From the "Rialto Bridge", I had a clear view of the neighboring Treasure Island Hotel.
- Treasure Island Hotel
- 3300 Las Vegas Blvd S, Las Vegas, NV 89109, U.S.
January 8: Day 6
Today is my presentation day at CCNC 2024.
Due to travel restrictions during the pandemic, this is my first in-person international-conference. But rather than feeling anxious, I was more excited.
We headed straight to the Flamingo Hotel to prepare for the demonstration. There were so many devices to set up-it was quite a challenge...
CYPHONIC Adapter: Enabling Secure P2P Connectivity for Diverse IoT Devices
- Graduate School of Business Administration and Computer Science, Aichi Institute of Technology, Toyota, Japan
- Ren Goto; Kazushige Matama; Ryouta Aihata; Michiyo Suda; Hidekazu Suzuki; Katsuhiro Naito
Peer-to-Peer (P2P) communication emerges as a potent paradigm in distributed processing models. However, network accessibility challenges and inherent limitations in ex-isting solutions have impeded the full realization of P2P's poten-tial. To address these issues, we've developed CYber PHysical Overlay Network over Internet Communication (CYPHONIC), an innovative solution enabling P2P-based direct device-to-device communication while ensuring robust zero-trust security. Additionally, we introduce the concept of a gateway device equipped with a CYPHONIC adapter to cater to conventional devices, often referred to as general nodes. Our paper focuses on implementing a remote camera monitoring solution, providing secure access to surveillance cameras. We aim to demonstrate that our overlay network seamlessly connects all CYPHONIC clients, including general nodes. We also present a comprehensive case study centered on remote camera monitoring. This case study showcases the effortless connectivity enabled by our overlay network, highlighting how CYPHONIC clients, including general nodes, can efficiently interconnect.
The poster provides an overview of our demonstration on building a secure overlay network using CYber PHysical Overlay Network over Internet Communication (CYPHONIC), an internet protocol we developed.
In the demonstration, we introduced an adapter device that allows conventional clients, such as IoT devices and dedicated service servers, to use CYPHONIC without installing our program directly. We connected a TP-Link camera to a CYPHONIC adapter, enabling secure peer-to-peer communication over an overlay network between two devices that could not communicate on a physical network.
The adapter device I designed and developed can direct connect private network devices without being affected by differences in IP versions or Network Address Port Translation (NAPT).
By demonstrating that CYPHONIC can be used with commercially available, off-the-shelf hardware, we can further highlight the advantages of our research.

After all the research team members had finished their presentations, we went downtown for a celebration.
We went to Triple 7 Restaurant and Microbrewery. This place offers a variety of dishes, including award-winning craft beers. There was even a brewery inside the restaurant!
Without hesitation, I ordered a five-beer sampler of freshly brewed beers! We also got plates, steak, fries, and some salads, enjoying the meal together. 🤣🍺
- Triple 7 Restaurant and Microbrewery
- 200 N Main St, Las Vegas, NV 89101, U.S.
The beers, from left to right, were:
- 777 Brewmaster Special, ABV: Varies
The Brewmaster Special features a monthly rotation of his finest creations. Some of the Favorites include raspberry wheat, mango hefeweizen, India pale ale and the famous black cherry stout.
- Black Chip Porter, ABV: 4.3%
Full-bodied, silky and creamy, roasted malt and hoppy bitterness. Deep and dark with a blend of five malts to gives it a complex flavor with chocolate and toffee undertones.
- High Roller Gold, ABV: 5.0%
The most popular of our line up, light and refreshing, using only the highest quality ingredients.
- Marker Pale Ale, ABV: 5.6%
American hops, pale malt, ale yeast, clean, slightly bitter and refreshing.
- Royal Red Ale, ABV: 4.5%
This Vienna-style ale has a distinctive toasted character, is medium-bodied, and balanced by "noble" hops.
Royal Red was my favorite beer!
After dinner, we headed to Fremont Street in downtown. This street features the world's largest display, covering the entire ceiling. Even though it's a busy downtown area, it's as tall as a 5-6 story building.
- Fremont Street Experience
- Fremont St., Las Vegas, NV 89101, U.S.
You can experience an attraction called SlotZilla. We quickly bought our tickets and went for the ride!
In less than five minutes, we zoomed from one end of the street to the other at high speed. It was an unforgettable experience! 😇
Next time I visit, I'll definitely choose the Superman-style zipline for the ride!
- SlotZilla Zipline
- 425 Fremont St #160, Las Vegas, NV 89101, U.S.
Starting tomorrow, CES 2024 kicks off!
January 9: Day 7
Today, we came to CES 2024 for a visit!
Consumer Electronics Show (CES) is an industry event hosted by the Consumer Technology Association (CTA), showcasing the latest electronic devices. It is held annually in Las Vegas. Here, you can get a first look at prototype products that have yet to be released to the public.
I registered as an "Early Bird".
This is Wonderland by Korea's SK Group, exhibited in the Central Hall of the Convention Center. The sphere is inspired by Sphere and is entirely covered with displays.
I experienced a level of realism that didn't even feel like just a display.
Next, I checked out the "transparent TVs" from Samsung and LG, which have been making headlines.
Samsung showcased its "Transparent MICRO LED", which uses ultra-small micro LED chips embedded in glass.
On the other hand, LG Electronics unveiled the world's first 77-inch wireless transparent OLED TV, "LG SIGNATURE OLED T". This model combines a transparent 4K OLED display with wireless video and audio transmission technology.
While Samsung's display remains fully transparent, the "LG SIGNATURE OLED T" features a built-in black screen that can move up and down. This allows users to switch between a transparent mode and a more traditional TV screen, making it a unique innovation. The concept is somewhat reminiscent of the "LG SIGNATURE OLED TV R", which had a rollable screen that could retract into a TV stand.
This is Direct Liquid Cooling (DLC) by Taiwan's GIGABYTE. As a leading expert and integrator in advanced cooling solutions, the company showcased its portfolio of single-phase immersion cooling and direct liquid cooling systems.
GIGABYTE's advanced cooling solutions support the latest AMD, Intel, and NVIDIA CPU/GPU technologies, providing diverse server options suited for various IT deployment strategies. These solutions maximize the potential of CPUs and GPUs while optimizing server performance, leading to reduced energy consumption.
This results in greater sustainability benefits and an attractive total cost of ownership (TCO).
I walked a huge distance today. The CES exhibition venues are spread across Las Vegas's main streets, making it impossible to see everything in just one day...💦
After arriving back at the condominium, we went to the jacuzzi and then treated myself to my favorite Haagen-Dazs.
Another day of CES exploration awaits tomorrow. Good night. 😪
January 10: Day 8
Today, I focused on the automobile exhibition booths. There were so many futuristic cars that I'd love to introduce, but covering them all would be impossible...
Even the Japanese automakers' models had completely different chassis designs compared to conventional cars.
This is the new Honda EV, "Honda 0 Series", developed by Honda Motor Co.,Ltd. The first concept models, "SALOON" and "SPACE-HUB", were unveiled for the first time in the world. They are set to launch in the global market starting in 2026.
It was an amazing experience to get an early look at these next-generation vehicles!
China's XPENG AEROHT showcased the world's first mass-produced modular flying car for personal use, the "Land Aircraft Carrier". Pre-orders are set to begin in Q4 2024, with deliveries to individual users expected in Q4 2025.
It's unbelievable that flying cars are actually becoming a reality. In the near future, we may start seeing them in other countries!
I was starting to feel a bit tired and thought it was the perfect time for a coffee break.
The venue featured a variety of food-tech robots equipped with generative AI.
One of the standout attractions was "ADAM", a barista robot developed by U.S.-based Richtech Robotics. This robot demonstrates coffee brewing and sells the beverages. It has already been deployed in multiple cities across the U.S. and can serve over 100 different drinks, including coffee.
Another impressive machine was a bartender robot from South Korea's Doosan Robotics. It interacted with me in real-time, preparing coffee and cocktails right in front of me!
After finishing my rounds at the exhibition, we headed back to the Flamingo Hotel for a dunch break. We went to Earl of Sandwich, and their burger sandwich was absolutely delicious! 🥪
Tonight, I'm planning to watch a Cirque du Soleil acrobatics show with my research team members.
- Earl of Sandwich
- 3667 Las Vegas Blvd S, Las Vegas, NV 89109, U.S.
It's 9:00 PM, and we've arrived at the Bellagio.
Cirque du Soleil is an entertainment troupe based in QC, Canada. Here at the Bellagio in Las Vegas, they have the "O" theater, featuring a water-themed show.
As soon as I entered the "O" theater, I was amazed by its grand scale. This is the kind of acrobatic stage you'd never see in Japan.
The performers were soaring through the air as if they were weightless objects. It was an absolutely incredible acrobatic performance!
Next, I'd love to see "KA" and "ZUMANITY" as well.
- "O" by Cirque du Soleil
- Bellagio Hotel and Casino, 3600 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109, U.S.
Las Vegas is all about casinos, right? So, I tried my luck at roulette and slot machines at the Bellagio Casino.
Oops... I lost $150 in just 10 minutes. But I had fun, so it was totally worth it. 😇
- Bellagio Hotel and Casino
- 3600 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109, U.S.
A problem arose here-a payment issue occurred with the Lyft app.
My phone battery also was running low, and I was in a pinch. Because I didn't have a portable charger!
Even so, I somehow managed to pick up an Uber taxi.
Whew... that was a close call...😮💨
January 11: Day 9
Today, we came to Sphere.
Sphere is a spherical multi-purpose arena that just opened last September.
It offers not only visuals and sound but also scent and wind effects, creating an immersive experience for all five senses. At 81,300 square meters, it is the largest spherical building in the world, with a seating capacity of 18,600 people.
You can easily spot it even from Harry Reid International Airport, which is 4-5 miles away.
Up close, the exterior is covered with countless circular LED modules. Each module is about 10 inches in diameter, making them quite large. They were arranged in a staggered pattern to minimize the visibility of gaps between the modules.
After that, we stopped by IT'SUGAR. IT'SUGAR is a large candy chain store with locations across the United States and Canada. I even saw one in Hawaii!
I absolutely love their sugary treats, gummy and candies. They have that uniquely intense sweetness you only find overseas-sweet enough to melt your teeth.😬
- IT'SUGAR Grand Bazaar
- 3623 Las Vegas Blvd S Ste 200, Las Vegas, NV 89109, U.S.
We walked along Blvd from the Strip to MGM Grand. Las Vegas is home to the very first M&M's store!
Inside, there were all kinds of merchandise and a colorful chocolate wall-it truly felt like a chocolate-themed park. The rows of vibrant chocolates were so exciting, not just for kids but even for adults!
With so many choices, it was hard to decide which ones to try. I ended up buying a lot of souvenirs here. 🍫
- M&M'S Las Vegas
- 3785 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109, U.S.
Before heading back to the condominium, we also stopped by New York - New York. A roller coaster runs around the building, and in front of it stands a half-scale replica of the "Statue of Liberty".
Inside, there was a luxurious high-roller casino area, dazzling with grandeur.
- New York - New York Hotel & Casino
- 3790 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109, U.S.
Tomorrow is my last day in Las Vegas.
I'm going to enjoy it to the fullest until the very end!
January 12: Day 10
Good morning! It's my last day in Las Vegas.
Ah, I just remembered that our host gave us a huge lasagna. Starting the day with some high-calorie goodness!
Today, we visited the Luxor Hotel, located toward the southern end of Blvd. At the entrance, there's a massive "Sphinx statue".
I was amazed! The walls of the Luxor Hotel are actually hotel rooms. Someday, I'd love to stay in a room inside the pyramid!
- Luxor Hotel & Casino
- 3900 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89119, U.S.
After that, we walked north along Blvd and arrived at Caesars Palace. The "Trevi Fountain" and the "statue of Oceanus" were absolutely dazzling!
We also took a few commemorative photos here.
- Trevi Fountain at Caesars Palace
- 3570 S Las Vegas Blvd, Paradise, NV 89109, U.S
After that, we returned to the "San Marco Campanile" in the Venetian. Even at night, it remained beautifully illuminated.
The "Rialto Bridge" was even used as a filming model in the movie "Resident Evil III".
Back at the condominium, we headed to the jacuzzi one last time. Until the very end, we had it all to ourselves.
This place was truly an amazing dormitory! I wish I had a beautiful pool and relaxation space like this in my backyard back home.
On the way back to our room, we saw the Luxor Hotel's searchlight. They say this beam can reach all the way into space.
Tomorrow morning, we'll be heading to Harry Reid International Airport bright and early.
Thank you, Las Vegas! I'll definitely be back!!
January 13: Day 11
Good morning. It's 5:30 AM. 😪
I'm having breakfast at the airport lounge.
From here, we'll be transiting through Kahului Airport on Maui before heading back to Oahu, Hawaii. ✈️
6-hours later, we arrived at Kahului Airport on Maui. In contrast to Las Vegas, the climate here is very hot and humid, so no long sleeves were needed.
- Kahului Airport
- 1 Keolani Pl, Kahului, HI 96732, U.S.
We had a short layover on Maui. After that, we took a 1-hour flight back to Honolulu Airport.
The heat was intense, so I got a gelato to cool down.
Then, we went to Honolulu Cookie Company to look for souvenirs. I bought a lot of Hawaiian souvenirs here.
- Honolulu Cookie Company
- 2233 Kalakaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815, U.S.
We arrived at the hotel where we'll be staying tonight. I splurged a bit and booked a room at Embassy Suites.
Surprisingly, a room on a higher floor was available, so they upgraded me for free! It's a suite facing Kalakaua Ave. 😍
From my room, I have a breathtaking view of Waikiki Beach!
- Embassy Suites by Hilton Waikiki Beach Walk
- 227 Lewers St, Honolulu, HI 96815, U.S.
After enjoying some vacation time at the beach, we headed back to the hotel for cocktail time. The fish and chips paired perfectly with the sweet and tangy cocktail. 🍍🍸
My graduate school journey is nearing its final stage. We took some time to reflect on my 6 years of university life.
With Hawaiian music playing in the background, we spend a peaceful and relaxing evening, watching a breathtaking sunset. 🌇
There was a festival happening on Kalakaua Ave.
We went to the Cheesecake Factory for dinner.
I had been wanting to visit for a while, so I made a reservation while I was still in Las Vegas. I ordered pasta and, of course, the cheesecake I had been looking forward to.
The cheese was incredibly rich and high in calories, but absolutely delicious!
- The Cheesecake Factory
- 2301 Kalakaua Avenue, Honolulu, HI 96815, U.S.
Tomorrow, we are heading back to Japan. Finally, it's the last day of this trip. 🥲
January 14: Day 12
Good morning! It's my last day on Oahu! I was able to see another beautiful sunrise today.
The horizon, illuminated by the sun, looked absolutely mesmerizing.
We have breakfast at the hotel's beer-garden.
With cheese omelets, bacon, and fries, it's quite a high-calorie start to the day. The guava juice and fresh fruits were refreshing and went down so smoothly. ☺️
We picked up a taxi at the entrance and headed to Honolulu Airport.
I had some free time before boarding, so I took a walk through the airport garden.
There were many tropical plants I didn't even know the names of. And wow, it was really hot!
At 2:30 PM, it's time to head back to Japan-a 10-hour flight awaits. We'll be arriving the next day at 7:30 PM JST. ✈️
I'm pretty sure I'll be jet-lagged after this.
I could see a breathtaking view of Oahu from the plane.
Even at 8:00 PM, the sky was still glowing with the beautiful sunset.
January 15: Return to Japan
By the time I woke up, we were already approaching Japan. From the plane, I spotted Umihotaru PA.
And finally, we safely arrived back in Japan! 🇯🇵
Both the international-conference and the trip went smoothly. It was truly an unforgettable and amazing journey! 🎉
Conclusion
With this, I have achieved the final goal of my graduate studies. 🎉
When I first joined my research lab, I set my ultimate goal to be presenting at an IEEE international-conference in Las Vegas. Being able to present at CCNC, one of the leading conferences in network technologies, is truly an honor. All the hard work I put in has finally paid off.
CES 2024 attracted over 135,000 visitors from 150 countries and regions. There were over 4,300 exhibitors, and the exhibition space was three times the size of Makuhari Messe. Originally a home electronics trade show, CES has expanded its focus over the years, now covering 41 different technology sectors.
Getting an exclusive first look at prototype technologies that will soon enter the market is incredibly exciting!
Ending my student life with such a luxurious journey through Hawaii and Las Vegas makes me truly proud.
This year, I will continue to move forward with determination as an engineer!
So, until next time-see you! 👋