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In a country with a unique culture like Japan, visitors can feel daunted by the rules and social norms that regulate public life and interpersonal relations. Foreigners visiting Japan are not expected to be familiar with Japanese etiquette, but knowing a few basics will go a long way in helping you adapt to local customs…
You might have seen it in the Academy Award-winning film “Life of Pi”—a blue glow that grows as the main character, Pi swirls the water. While this might be CGI’s work in the movie, it’s a real phenomenon. In bodies of water around the world, bioluminescent creatures, typically plankton, light up like a firefly when…
Woman freediver glides over sandy sea with yellow fins in transparent ocean. Freediving in Mauritius
The saying “you get what you pay for” doesn’t always apply when it comes to traveling the globe. Sure, many bucket list destinations are worth their eye-popping price tags, but there are plenty of affordable — and arguably cooler — alternatives to these well-trodden, budget-busting destinations. Below, we listed the most expensive spots in the…
Simply put, Japan is a fascinating destination. You’ll find a seamless blend of old traditions and new technology here. You’ll also discover gorgeous natural landscapes just a short train ride from sparkling, sprawling cities and loud, jarring outlets a short distance from quiet areas full of nuanced rules. It’s the kind of place where people…
From apple picking and cider tasting to squash roasting and scarf knitting, there are many ways to embrace the autumn season. But none are more prevalent than leap peeping the stunning mix of green, bright red, orange, and golden yellow trees that comes with the transition between summer and winter. While New England destinations like…
Bathing in hot springs, or onsens, is a huge part of Japanese culture. However, doing so comes with its own set of rules, customs, and etiquette, from what to bring to what to wear (or not to wear, as the case may be). If you’ve never been to an onsen before, make sure to check…
If you’ve been paying attention, you know that Tokyo is topping the lists of travelers everywhere. Whether you’re coming for the 2020 Tokyo Summer Olympics or simply to devour plates of sushi, there will be plenty to keep you busy for days. However, with a population that makes New York look small and a landscape…
Deluxe Room King Bed at Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo In 2018, Tokyo fell off the list of the world’s 10 most expensive cities, but it’s still known for having high hotel rates. Even a short stay in a traditional inn with shared bathrooms can set you back a few hundred dollars. However, if you’re ready to…
Osaka is Japan’s second-largest city behind Tokyo. It’s a sparkling, modern metropolis with an excellent street-food scene, loads of culture, stellar shopping, and small pockets that you could explore for days. The city’s overall central location also makes it a great home base for exploring the region. Several of Japan’s must-see destinations are easily connected…
Soaking in a hot spring is known to have lots of health benefits, from improving circulation to alleviating body aches. And while taking a dip in thermal waters au naturel is par for the course in areas such as Europe and Japan, U.S. citizens have to actively search for nearby hot springs that allow nudity.…