Although we were under no delusions that we could learn the language, we did make an effort to learn the key expressions of greetings and appreciation. In a culture where ceremony reigns supreme, these little gestures were greatly appreciated and returned with compliments and giggles. If you do nothing but learn to say “please,” “thank you” and count to five , you will be in good standing.

Popularity: 10% [?]

My first attempt to plan our trip to Japan started with maps. I should have known that one week would not be enough when I realized that I could not find Kyoto on the map because the map was not Japan, but simply Tokyo.  I consider myself fairly adept at reading maps and being able to “get a lay of the land” before I ever visit a place.  That was until I battled the map of Tokyo and Tokyo came out the victor.  I folded the map, waived the white flag and proclaimed, “Forget it!  We will figure out when we get there.”   My husband laughed, as he knew that the map may have won the battle, but the war had just begun.

Popularity: 1% [?]

Depachika – Food Lover’s Paradise

You can’t go to Tokyo without checking out a depachika, the lavish department store food basements that sell everything from dainty wagashi (traditional Japanese sweets) and bento to$500 melons and European pastries.  Depachika is a combination of  ‘depa’ (department store in short) and (‘chika’) and they are truly a food lover’s paradise.  In addition to buying wonderful meals and gifts, you can also sample your way through and end up quite full.  Some of the highlights included:

Popularity: 1% [?]

Bargain Shopper and Proud!

Say what you want but I am a Dollar store junkie.  Some of must best finds have been at Big Lots in America, the Pound Store in London, and the 100-Yen Shop in Japan.  You can find these 100 Yen shops all over but the biggest one that I visited was the Harajuku Daiso with four floors full of things you just have to have.  I bought 4 lovely little yellow ramikans that I use ALL THE TIME.

Popularity: 1% [?]

My family and I have a very distinct travel style – it entails walking, walking, walking, walking, eating, walking some more, eating, walking some more. Although there may be more walking than eating, eating is very important part of our travels. Montreal presents a multi-cultural, culinary utopia. French, Italian, Chinese, Japanese, Latin, Canadian, Vegetarian, Raw – you name – Montreal has it! In addition, you never have to go far to find a restaurant that meets your taste, mood and pocketbook.

Popularity: 40% [?]