7-Eleven

The past week I was mostly busy with two things: working and hanging out with my parents. I could tell some stories on both fronts, but just going to keep this as a quickie update. Today’s topic shall be 7-Eleven.

I would like to speak generally for every American who has ever come to Taiwan and say that we all have a crush on the Taiwanese manifestation of the concept of “convenience store”. Most often, I think Americans fixate on 7-Eleven. Somehow, the kind of sketchy corner convenience store that evokes the stale odor coffee and security camera footage of muggings came to Taiwan and transformed to a bright, clean, family friendly establishment. And most amazingly, it is convenient. When you’re in Taiwan, 7-Eleven has got your back. Thirsty? Hungry? Forgot to buy toothpaste? Toilet paper? Shirts? Scarves? Want to buy tickets to concerts? Trains? Buses? Pay your bills? All of these needs can be taken care of at the closest 7. And the closest 7 is probably (at most) a few blocks away. Of course, 7-Eleven isn’t even the only convenience store, there are in fact several chains (Family Mart and Hi-Mart are the other big names) that together create convenience store density that is undeniably convenient.

I can’t even begin to describe the variety of interesting gimmicks and promotions that they are always running. Buying a certain amount earns you stickers, which can be exchanged for prizes. Sometimes buying two bottles of a certain tea will get you an immediate prize. Buy a cereal drink and get a tea egg for just one NT. What exciting new deal could you discover while stopping by for a fresh coffee?

Still, my knowledge and usage of 7-Eleven has just begun to scratch the surface. I used the IBON machine for the first time today, which seems is the portal to 7-Eleven’s magical world of ticket-purchasing.

I decided that it’s finally time for me to get it out of my system*, so I registered for a marathon.

First, I would like to point out just a few of the flow charts involved with the registration process. When in doubt, make a flowchart. Don’t forget to use system so complicated that a flow chart is required to explain it.

And then here I am, at the nearby 7 to pay my entrance fee.

If you need something to do on December 16^th, you can come do 42km with me. Or just stop by to watch.

 

*I’ve been muttering about this for the past 2 years or so. I’m actually not even in the best shape that I’ve ever been these days – keep skipping runs to eat. I figure this will be good motivation to get back on track a little. I doubt that I will make a great time, but I’ll make sure to finish.