Day 4 started with the breakfast provided by the hotel. We collected it from the reception and brought it up to the room. We then took a walk around Hai’an Road Art Street. The area was filled with narrow alleyways lined with shops and restaurants. Next, we headed over to Chimei Museum. From its majestic …
Taiwan March 2025 Day 3
After breakfast, we bid farewell to the Homestay and the two friendly Shibas. The first destination of the day was the DreamWorks of Mei. This is a charming plum-themed factory and cultural hub operated by the Xinyi Township Farmers’ Association, where they let you discover Taiwan’s plum heritage through interactive experiences like plum-making workshops, tastings, …
Taiwan March 2025 Day 1 & 2
DAY 1 It has been 2 years since we visited Taiwan, so we took this opportunity in March to visit the places that we had missed on our last visit. Upon touchdown, we proceed to the Lucky Draw counter at the Arrival Hall. Foreign independent travelers who hold foreign (non-ROC) passports must register at least …
Exploring Japan Golden Route Tokyo, Kyoto & Osaka Jan 2025 Part 3
PART 3 – OSAKA DAY 1 Last breakfast at Comfort Inn before checking out. Our train arrived on schedule. We arrived at our hotel after an hour ride. As it was still early and the rooms were not ready, the staff allowed us to drop off our luggage at the reception and look after it …
Exploring Japan Golden Route Tokyo, Kyoto & Osaka Jan 2025 Part 2
PART 2 – KYOTO DAY 1 This morning, we took the 11 am Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Kyoto Station. The Shinkansen line connecting Tokyo to Osaka is the Tokaido Shinkansen, Japan’s busiest bullet train route. The fastest trains, called Nozomi, take about 2 hours and 30 minutes, but are not covered by the Japan Rail Pass. For Japan Rail …
Exploring Japan Golden Route Tokyo, Kyoto & Osaka Jan 2025 Part 1
Japan’s Golden Route: Tokyo → Kyoto → Osaka Planning your first trip to Japan? You’ve probably heard people talk about the “Golden Route.” It’s the classic trail that takes you from Tokyo’s neon buzz to Kyoto’s old-world charm and finally to Osaka’s foodie heaven. And honestly? It’s popular for a reason — this route gives …
Shangri-La – Yunnan China
Immediately after breakfast, the driver arrived to bring us to the High-Speed Rail Station. We arrived at Shangri-La Station after an hour-plus journey. The station was only opened on November 26, 2023. Before that, those wanting to come here must take buses or a car, which requires many more hours. The owner of the Homestay …
Lijiang- Yunnan China Day 5
Again, got to wake up early for our transport to our day trip at Tiger Leaping Gorge. Arrived at our destination after about a 2-hour ride. Site map of the place. 2 things to note when visiting this place. First, do pay for the Escalator ride. Or else there would be one hell of a …
Lijiang- Yunnan China Day 4
Waiting for our day trip to Lugu Lake transport at 6 am. Rest Stop Our Minibus for the day. Arrived at the first stop after a 2-hour ride. Greeting sign at the entrance. Lookout point. The view of Lugu Lake from the Lookout Point. The 2nd stop was the Daluoshui Village. We got up close …
Lijiang- Yunnan China Day 3
After yesterday’s hectic schedule, we will be taking it easy today. Woke up late and went straight to Brunch near Shuhe Ancient Town. We were directed to take the lift up to the 3rd floor. A cosy restaurant that provides heating inside the restaurant. Best of all, unlike most other restaurants in China, those who …