I suppose that I should consider myself lucky that article doesn't relate to me at all. However, I quite sympathize with the situation.

With regard to your trip to Okinawa and the Rykyus, did you ever watch the drama "Ruri no Shima"? Or the movie "Kaifu wo Machiwabite"? They both take place on those islands, and I liked them very much.

Anyway, have a great time!