"Predictably botched" - I love that! As well as the way a few vodkas and anything can ease the pain .

FWIW - I never much liked "middle of nowhere" places even when I was younger (luxury hotel staff who all aspire to be "hot skiers" are tiresome after about 15 minutes) - and don't go to them now. I very much preferred and still prefer big cities. Read this book:

http://www.amazon.com/Dave-Barry-Doe.../dp/0449908100

And put Japan on your travel list.

Thanks for reporting back. Robyn