Author: Anja

My Traditional Japanese Ceramics Dream Trip

My Traditional Japanese Ceramics Dream Trip

Japanese ceramics appreciation post and where to find ceramics centres in Japan! This post is highlighting notable pottery regions such as Tokoname, Kyo, Bizen, and Arita, detailing the historical and artistic significance of each pottery style. Practical travel tips and advice on workshops, museums, and transportation are provided for each location, underlining the blend of tradition and accessibility in Japanese ceramics.

Fabric Shopping in Nagasaki: Gorgeous cloth galore!

Fabric Shopping in Nagasaki: Gorgeous cloth galore!

A hobby sewist shares insights from fabric shopping in Nagasaki. The blog details various high-quality Japanese fabrics available, from traditional prints to modern designs, and provides a thorough guide on fabric types such as cotton, chirimen, and Liberty Tana Lawn. Key fabric stores in Nagasaki are highlighted for their selection and decent prices. The post emphasizes personal experiences and advice for fabric enthusiasts.

Short and Sweet 1-week Kansai Itinerary

Short and Sweet 1-week Kansai Itinerary

The post details travel plans for a week-long trip to Japan’s Kansai region. We aim for a culturally immersive experience, visiting grand sites and exploring new ones on a modest budget. Practical aspects like transportation, accommodation, and daily activities are meticulously planned, including considerations for cost-effective traveling and managing sightseeing around Kyoto, Sakai, Tambasasayama and possibly Nara or Uji.

The Beauty of Nagasaki Temple Street

The Beauty of Nagasaki Temple Street

Nagasaki Temple Street, located in a picturesque area of Nagasaki City, offers an enriching cultural exploration of Buddhist and Shinto sites. Accessible via a delightful tram ride, this 3km trail promises a day’s journey amidst historic temples such as Kofuku-ji and enchanting gardens, with convenient city center proximity. Alongside religious monuments, vibrant shops and dining options enhance the experience, making it a must-see for travelers.

3 Days in Nagasaki: My favourite Nagasaki itinerary

3 Days in Nagasaki: My favourite Nagasaki itinerary

My Nagasaki itinerary showcases a practical and enriching three-day itinerary for exploring Nagasaki, with an emphasis on local transport and key attractions. Highlights include historic sites like the Suwa Shrine, engaging museums, scenic walking routes, and the stunning Mount Inasa Night View. The guide also covers practical accommodation options, transport tips, and dining suggestions to enhance the visitor experience in Nagasaki, reflecting its rich history, cultural diversity, and natural beauty.

Shu Matsubara Knives – the perfect Kyushu Souvenir

Shu Matsubara Knives – the perfect Kyushu Souvenir

My first Nagasaki souvenir, a Shu Matsubara knife, remains sharp a year after purchase, evoking fond memories of Kyushu each time I use it. Shu Matsubara, located in Omura, offers traditional and modern Japanese knives forged by the dynamic Katsuto Tanaka, who trains the next generation of smiths. My initial purchase led to subsequent visits, enriching my collection with a personalized knife. Shu Matsubara Knives, not just a store but a workshop, provides an enriching experience for those looking to own quality Japanese knives.

Relax at Nagasaki Onsen – with a detailed onsen guide

Relax at Nagasaki Onsen – with a detailed onsen guide

Exploring onsens in Nagasaki offers a quintessential Japanese experience, highlighted by visits to various natural hot springs. Each onsen provides distinct experiences—from serene, traditional settings to modern facilities with diverse baths and saunas. Essential tips for onsen usage include proper etiquette and what to bring. Also outlined are directions for reaching each location. Whether seeking relaxation, therapeutic baths, or cultural immersion, Nagasaki’s onsens cater to all.

Nagasaki – the perfect small Kyushu city to visit

Nagasaki – the perfect small Kyushu city to visit

Nagasaki, offers a rich mixture of history, from its trading past with Dutch and Chinese through Dejima Island to the poignant Atomic Bomb Museum. The city also boasts a scenic location with a pleasant climate and is surrounded by forests and volcanoes. Despite its traumatic history, Nagasaki is forward-looking and cheerful. Visit Nagasaki on your Japan trip!

The best routes to Scotland’s Highlands and Islands

The best routes to Scotland’s Highlands and Islands

In March 2024, we traveled to Scotland’s Outer Hebrides .Opting for car hire in Edinburgh for flexibility, we compared three travel routes to the Western Isles, enjoyed dramatic Scottish landscapes, and navigated unpredictable weather. We emphasize the importance of early booking, particularly in peak season, and share practical tips on accommodations, car hiring, ferry services, and potential public transport use – all based on our first-hand experience, without any sponsorship.

Cool Oman mini road trip to Al Hamra and Nizwa

Cool Oman mini road trip to Al Hamra and Nizwa

On a mini road trip in Oman, I explore beyond Muscat, visiting culturally and naturally rich destinations like Nizwa, Bahla, and Al Hamra. Highlights include the UNESCO-listed Bahla Fortress, charming traditional villages, and bustling souks, all easily navigated by a hired car for an immersive two to three-day journey.

Diving in Muscat, Oman

Diving in Muscat, Oman

Can you dive well in Oman? And what is diving in Muscat like? The coastline of Oman is over 3000km long, with plenty of diving opportunities along larger settlements. And yes, you can dive really well in Muscat. Prime diving spots, starting with the North, 

Two Wheels and a dram: Our Islay whisky trip – with a bit of cycling

Two Wheels and a dram: Our Islay whisky trip – with a bit of cycling

While  unable to travel, there’s an opportunity to recap something older that may otherwise never see the light of day.   It may delight,  in this case, lovers of whisky. I never wrote about my Islay whisky trip. It’s been a while, but as I occasionally 

Where to stay in Muscat on a budget

Where to stay in Muscat on a budget

Oman is still an affordable destination, but definitely not a budget destination. Are there even nice hotels to stay in Muscat on a budget? When I recently visited the capital of Oman on a diving trip, I was quite conscious on where to find good 

Why Oman is great for solo female travel

Why Oman is great for solo female travel

Oman is an excellent destination for solo female travelers, mixing traditional and modern influences with a history dating back 8,000 years. Despite limited public transport, renting a car makes exploring its spacious towns feasible. Oman’s people are known for their genuine friendliness and tolerance, due to the Ibadi Islam practiced there. The country offers diverse activities and safe, budget-friendly accommodations, with a more conflict-free environment than neighboring states. Despite being an absolute monarchy, travelers can enjoy its rich culture and nature with peace of mind.

How to transfer in comfort at Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen Airport

How to transfer in comfort at Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen Airport

Have you ever transferred through Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen Airport (IATA Code: SAW) ? If so, how did you find it?  If you are heading from Europe to destinations in the Middle East and Asia on a budget,  you may inevitably pass through it at some