Travel Guide: The One about Tips Before Going to Tsukiji Fish Market

NOTE: This guide was written before Tsukiji Fish Market moved to Toyosu Fish Market.  Tsukiji is still functional as the restaurants of the outer market is still there.  While the main fish auction is at Toyosu. You are planning your trip to Japan and one Read More …

Travel Guide: The One about Tax-Free Shops in Japan

In Japan, especially in Tokyo, in major foreigner-friendly shopping areas such as Akihabara, there are logos showcasing “Japan Tax-Free Shop”. It’s important to for people traveling Japan to know that shops will NOT give you tax-free if you don’t ask for it.  Afterall, how would Read More …

Travel Guide – Japan: The One about Preparing a Budget and Knowing about Japanese Yen (Currency)

You are planning to go to Japan for the first time and are wondering about Japanese currency. Should you get currency at the American airport or local bank before going to Japan?  Should I wait until you get to Japan? Here is my advice when Read More …

Travel Guide – Japan: The One about Riding the Shinkansen

For those who have read my post about the Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass), I first recommend after activation at a JR Station to discuss with them on getting shinkansen tickets in advance (as you want to make sure you get your seat before finding Read More …

Travel Guide – Japan: The One about the IC Transportation Card (Suica and Pasmo)

If you are traveling Japan, aside from your passport and your JR Pass, one of the most important things to do, once you arrive in Japan, is to get an IC Transportation Card that will allow you travel in Japan. You can purchase the card Read More …

Travel Guide: The One about the Top 10 Things One Should Do Weeks Before Traveling Overseas

Before traveling overseas, assuming your passport, tickets, luggage, hotel and important details have been taken care of. But there are a few things one should make sure they take care of before traveling. Here are my Top 10 Things One Should Do Weeks Before Traveling Read More …

Travel Guide: The One about 5 Things You Should Know Before Purchasing Luggage

You are in the market for luggage as you are planning to travel. But what key things should one know before purchasing luggage? 1.  STAY AWAY FROM 28″ OR HIGHER LUGGAGE This will shock some people that I start off with this because I own Read More …

Travel Guide: The One about Purchasing Luggage – Check-In Baggage, Carry On and Personal Items for Travel

For those who are first time travelers and those who have traveled internationally before, there is always a concern about the weight of our luggage and what is allowable by the airline company. A few airline companies have lowered their maximum size limit which makes Read More …

Travel Guide: The Importance of having WiFi, GPS and Google Maps for Traveling Overseas

While I have discussed using Google Maps for traveling and how sometimes, it can get glitchy and is not 100% perfect, I know that when it comes to traveling overseas, I find it so important to have. Especially going to locations like Tokyo.  I like Read More …

Travel Guide: The One about the Foreign Transaction Fees

If there was one thing I learned after traveling overseas, it’s to be cautious of foreign transaction fees. What many people don’t realize is that for using your debit/credit card overseas, a lot of banks charge transaction fees.  And if you eat out, purchase a Read More …

Travel Guide – Japan: The One about Having Very Good Socks and Shoes and Preparing for Stairs in Tokyo

There was a time when I would to go to Japan and select dress shoes and socks, until I realize that stairs in Japan have quickly become my arch-rival. From carrying your multiple luggage, your travel bag/backpack and when going to the subway or train, Read More …

Travel Guide – Japan: The One about Medicine and Drug Stores in Japan (Common Medicine for Teens and Adults)

One thing that can possibly put a damper on your vacation to Japan is getting sick.  Especially if you are traveling between November-April. While I get my flu shots in the winter, I often recommend friends to do the same. But you will be near Read More …

Travel Guide – Japan: The One about Hyperdia and Google Maps (For Riding the Trains/Subway in Japan)

My first time to Japan, it was during my final year in college. Having minored in Japanese, I was ready to take my first voyage to the Land of the Rising Sun and felt I was ready. That was until I reached Narita Airport and Read More …