Monthly Archives: December 2010

I came to Japan for the second time on a very strict budget. It didn’t bother me too much, as I’m perfectly content to wander the streets people watching and window shopping while dining at cheap restaurants. Yet I promised myself one splurge … Continue reading →

The first time I came to Japan I barely spoke Japanese; as a result, I barely spoke at all.  It wasn’t a problem; pictures and gestures communicate a lot, and I stayed the entire time in Tokyo proper, which is … Continue reading →

Many years of traveling has taught me one thing; no matter how much you prepare for a trip, you’ll always end up forgetting something.  Having once left my phone charger at home, I am now diligent about double checking that … Continue reading →

I flew over on the upper deck of a 747, a first-time experience that I may have enjoyed more if I hadn’t had to lug my suitcase up that narrow flight of stairs.  The trip itself saw frequent turbulence to … Continue reading →