Flying Etihad Airways to Japan: What is it like?
An airline review on Flying Etihad Airways from Europe to Japan from a full fee-paying passenger in Economy Class. Would I fly Etihad Airways again? Yes, but… read the review to find out more!
Travelling
A little bit of this, a little bit of that
How to enjoy Kyoto with limited mobility
Are you living with limited mobility and wish to visit Japan, and Kyoto in particular? This post will give you some useful insights on enjoying Kyoto with limited mobility, from taking public transport, to accommodation options and best way to sightsee.
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
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.
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
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.
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
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
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 …
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 …
The honest Diary of a new Scuba Diver
You may wonder, what does a new scuba diver have to say, other than… “just do it!” Well, if it’s no more than that, and if this post just encourages one other person to take up diving, I will be happy. The sea has always …
Treasure Hunting in Arita
Treasure Hunting in Arita was dream come true. I love Japanese ceramics and porcelain. Many years ago, trips to the now defunct Oriental City were a wonderful respite from toiling away in a laboratory. Years later, my already decent Japanese tableware collection was supplemented by …
Okawachiyama, the Beautiful Village of the Secret Kilns
When you love Japanese ceramics, visiting Saga Prefecture on Kyushu Island is highly recommended. I studied in Nagasaki this year , so a trip to the kilns of Arita and Imari was pretty high on my wish list. When I wrote my Japanese Ceramics Dream trip …
My 2024 Travel Plans
Time to make 2024 travel plans! Looking back at my 2023 Travel Plans, I am pleasantly surprised how many of them I turned into actual trips. My end of year post if full of pictures and good memories, and as is tradition with many in …
“A Red Letter Day”: My 2023 travel year review
So, the end of the year is near… let’s write a wrap-up of the years travels. The traditional “between the years” 2023 travel year review. As the title suggests, it was a pretty good one! And, in the words of my teenage favourites, the Pet …