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Signs of the times? A COVID-19 test vending machine at the airport

I just wanted to share this photo that I took of a vending machine dispensing COVID-19 antigen self-test kits at NAIA Terminal 3. I took this photo as we exited the baggage claim area and headed for the multi-level parking of the terminal.

There are many vending machines at airports including the most typical ones for drinks and food. Some dispense souvenirs and even electronics. This was the first time I encountered this type of machine. I didn’t see one while in Changi or in NAIA Terminal 2, and even in Panglao, Mactan, Zamboanga or Laguindingan airports where I have been recently. Perhaps there are machines like this there or in there airports but I just didn’t see them. I guess these are here to stay considering COVID-19 is not yet completely out of the picture so to speak.

On vending machines at rail station platforms in Japan

Earlier, I featured some conveniences at train stations that included vending machines on the platforms. Following are a few more photos including a couple showing the newest models of vending machines. These have touch screens showing the products for sale and even shows weather forecasts.

2013-10-10 09.15.47Passengers using the new touch screen vending machines at a JR Line platform.

2013-10-10 09.16.09The screen displays products as well as the weather forecast. On the right are disposal bins for bottles and cans.

2013-10-10 09.39.40Conventional vending machines and trash bins at the Enoshima Dentetsu platform.

2013-10-10 09.42.53A souvenir machine featuring a metal press where the customer can choose among 3 designs.

2013-10-10 09.43.14Ice cream vending machine.

Conveniences at the train stations and platforms

Japan is also famous for having a lot of vending machines dispensing everything from snacks, softdrinks and beer to toys and electronics, and even shirts and underwear! At the train stations there are also many vending machines in addition to the kiosks that are basically convenience stores. Here are a couple of vending machines and the garbage disposal bins beside them.

IMG07137-20131009-1100Vending machine at a Tokyo Metro platform

IMG07066-20131006-1535Vending machine and telephones behind a kiosk at a JR Line platform

Within the larger stations, there are also restaurants or eateries for those wanting a quick meal but happen to have already gone past the turnstiles. These are not your typical holes in the walls or fast food types. Instead there are also full service restaurants or cafes. Then there are food courts where commuters may have a good variety to choose from like the Tokyo Food Bar that I found at the JR Akihabara Station.

IMG07086-20131006-1654This food bar is very much like the food courts we find at malls. These offer a variety of selections for the hungry commuter. The signboards show the menus of establishments inside the food bar.