OKINAWA, Japan - With the spring months coming to an end and summer right around the corner, the time for taking part in fun-filled summer activities is here!

Whether you like spending time barbecuing with friends or surfing, summertime in Okinawa has something to offer everyone.

The first thing you should do when trying to come up with activities for the summer is to make a plan.

When planning, you need to look into the many things available on the island. If you are interested in using the summer to learn more about the island of Okinawa or the country of Japan, one of the best ways is to schedule a tour. From on-island tours of historic sites and scenic waterfalls, to off-island tours where you can hike Mt. Fuji or explore big cities like Tokyo or Osaka, planning a summer adventure can be done by scheduling events with travel agents on or off base.

When making plans, be sure to include others in your summer activities. The more people you are able to get to take part in whatever it is you have planned the more fun it will be for all parties.

But do not rely on the plans of others all the time. Have some initiative and plan an event for you and your friends.

The best thing about planning what you want to do is that it gives you the time to ensure you can get the most out of the summer months. Whether you want to go on a tour or go camping with some friends, taking the time to plan ahead will enable you to make all required reservations.

When planning, make sure you do not get stuck in a routine. Mix things up, so you do not get bored.

By adding variety to your summer, you and your friends will keep from getting bored of going to the same restaurant each week or the same places out in town.

Take the time to try new exotic foods or go to a different location to hang out with friends. Try not to view being in a different country as time you have to spend away from home but rather as an opportunity to experience a new country and culture.
Remember, summertime is the season when there is a large influx of new people coming to Okinawa, so be sure to involve new people in your plans.

Invite them to go with you and get them out of the barracks, so they can have fun this summer as well. Who knows, you might make some new friends in doing so.

Finally, the biggest factor in ensuring you are not bored and wasting your time this summer is to not stay on base all summer.
With opportunities to go to some of the best beaches in the world, experience a different culture, and see something new each day, there is no excuse to stay on base all summer long.

Whatever it is you decide to do for fun this summer, make sure you are staying safe. Take into consideration what potential hazards you might face and plan accordingly. Okinawa is full of fun-filled activities. Do not waste your summer.