From the United States to Germany and back again, explore these travel posts!
Once upon a time, using public transit when traveling could be a nightmare. What ticket do you need? Are you in the right fare zone (or zones)? How long is the ticket good for? Is it good for one person, or is it a group ticket? And that’s all before you even consider how to […]
Deutschland-Ticket: Your €58 Pass for Unlimited German Travel (2025 Guide) Read More »
Everyone dreams of visiting Japan during cherry blossom season… but what about winter? Despite concerns about cold and dreary weather, I decided to roll the dice and visit in January, hoping for fewer crowds, cheaper rates, and to attend the Grand Sumo Tournament in Tokyo. And I’m so glad I did! Japan in winter isn’t
The Surprising Benefits of Visiting Japan in Winter (And What to Know Before You Go) Read More »
Everyone warned me not to go to Japan in the winter: too cold, too gray, too quiet, they said. But the reality? Japan in winter was even better than I imagined. Yes, there were some cold and overcast days, but traveling in January meant experiencing lingering New Year’s traditions, witnessing the first early blooms, and
What It’s Like to Visit Japan in Winter: Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Himeji & Kobe in January Read More »
Internationally, Kobe is synonymous with beef. But on a day trip from Osaka, Japan, I discovered a vibrant city with a relaxed atmosphere, offering outdoor adventures, cultural gems, and friendly locals. Kobe provides a refreshing contrast to its busier neighbors, making it a perfect day trip destination where you won’t just feel like part of
A Scenic Day Trip to Kobe, Japan: Ropeway Views, Herb Gardens & Hidden Waterfalls Read More »
When Mother Nature threatens snow and ice on the morning you’re supposed to drive more than two hours for a flight to Tokyo, you make adjustments. For my husband and me, that meant booking a room at the TWA Hotel at JFK Airport and driving up the night before. The TWA Hotel is anything but
TWA Hotel Review: What It’s Like to Stay at JFK’s Retro Airport Hotel Read More »
Anyone who thinks winter is dull hasn’t visited the Ueno Toshogu Winter Peony Festival in Tokyo, Japan. While other parts of the world brace for snow and freezing temperatures, this Japanese winter festival celebrates nature with bright, blooming flowers. Large peonies in vivid hues like pink, red, and white offer a refreshing glimpse of spring.
Why You Should Visit Tokyo’s Ueno Toshogu Winter Peony Festival Read More »
Across Japan, there are only twelve original castles left. In the charming city of Himeji is Himeji Castle, Japan’s most famous and best-preserved castle. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is remarkable to experience–whether from inside, climbing to the top, or from outside, marveling at its architecture. In addition to this must-see fortress, Himeji offers a
Himeji Day Trip Guide: Explore Himeji Castle & Koko-en Garden Read More »
Nearly a decade ago, my husband and I became interested in the Japanese comedy show Documental. The premise is simple: comedians are locked in a room and forbidden from laughing. Their goal is to eliminate each other by making their opponents laugh. Nothing is off-limits, and frankly, it is remarkable that some of it made
Experiencing Japanese Comedy: How to Attend Yoshimoto Comedy Night in Tokyo Read More »
Few things are as instantly recognizable as sumo wrestling, with its powerful athletes and minimal attire. After nearly a decade of watching sumo on television, I finally experienced a Grand Sumo Tournament in Tokyo, Japan. For those new to the sport or those looking to attend their first tournament, this guide covers how to get
Grand Sumo Tournament in Tokyo: Tickets, Best Seats & Tips Read More »
If there’s one place that every traveler wants to visit in Germany, it’s Neuschwanstein Castle. This fairytale-like castle has captivated people worldwide—including Disney, which used it as inspiration for Cinderella’s Castle. Neuschwanstein and nearby Hohenschwangau Castle make for an ideal day trip from Munich. Nestled in the picturesque Bavarian countryside, these iconic castles are must-see
Beer is an integral part of Bavarian culture. From historic monastery breweries to modern craft beer makers, Bavaria offers unforgettable beer-tasting experiences for travelers. Its world-renowned beer festivals, like Oktoberfest, draw millions of visitors each year. For those looking to delve even deeper, the best brewery tours in Bavaria provide an insider’s look at the
The Best Bavarian Brewery Tours & Beer Tastings Read More »
Each year, the Philadelphia Flower Show offers a glimpse of spring. Usually, it comes with a hint of bitterness, as snow or ice often threatens. But the 196th PHS Philadelphia Flower Show 2025 opened under pleasantly mild temperatures, blue skies, and sunshine—what a joy! For 2025, the Flower Show is looking ahead with the theme
Philadelphia Flower Show 2025 Guide: Best Exhibits, Tips & Visitor Advice Read More »
