Once upon a time, using public transit when traveling could be a nightmare. What ticket do you need? Are you in the right fare zone (or zones)? How long is the ticket good for? Is it good for one person, or is it a group ticket? And that’s all before you even consider how to […]
Deutschland-Ticket: Your €58 Pass for Unlimited German Travel (2025 Guide) Read More »
Everyone dreams of visiting Japan during cherry blossom season… but what about winter? Despite concerns about cold and dreary weather, I decided to roll the dice and visit in January, hoping for fewer crowds, cheaper rates, and to attend the Grand Sumo Tournament in Tokyo. And I’m so glad I did! Japan in winter isn’t
The Surprising Benefits of Visiting Japan in Winter (And What to Know Before You Go) Read More »
Angela Winkler’s acting career has remained remarkably consistent since its start in the late 1960s, and it has been nothing short of stunning, with memorable roles in both German and international cinema. While she appeared in the 2018 remake of famed Italian horror director Dario Argento’s Suspiria and the popular German streaming series Dark, it
Learn German with Films of Angela Winkler Read More »
Everyone warned me not to go to Japan in the winter: too cold, too gray, too quiet, they said. But the reality? Japan in winter was even better than I imagined. Yes, there were some cold and overcast days, but traveling in January meant experiencing lingering New Year’s traditions, witnessing the first early blooms, and
What It’s Like to Visit Japan in Winter: Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Himeji & Kobe in January Read More »
Internationally, Kobe is synonymous with beef. But on a day trip from Osaka, Japan, I discovered a vibrant city with a relaxed atmosphere, offering outdoor adventures, cultural gems, and friendly locals. Kobe provides a refreshing contrast to its busier neighbors, making it a perfect day trip destination where you won’t just feel like part of
A Scenic Day Trip to Kobe, Japan: Ropeway Views, Herb Gardens & Hidden Waterfalls Read More »
Axel Stein is the kind of entertainer who isn’t afraid to have a bit of fun. He’s appeared on Michael “Bully” Herbig‘s no-laughing streaming comedy series LOL: Last One Laughing and gone on the run for Celebrity Hunted. But he’s also a hard worker who has been in the entertainment industry since before he was
Learn German with Films of Axel Stein Read More »
When Mother Nature threatens snow and ice on the morning you’re supposed to drive more than two hours for a flight to Tokyo, you make adjustments. For my husband and me, that meant booking a room at the TWA Hotel at JFK Airport and driving up the night before. The TWA Hotel is anything but
TWA Hotel Review: What It’s Like to Stay at JFK’s Retro Airport Hotel Read More »
Anyone who thinks winter is dull hasn’t visited the Ueno Toshogu Winter Peony Festival in Tokyo, Japan. While other parts of the world brace for snow and freezing temperatures, this Japanese winter festival celebrates nature with bright, blooming flowers. Large peonies in vivid hues like pink, red, and white offer a refreshing glimpse of spring.
Why You Should Visit Tokyo’s Ueno Toshogu Winter Peony Festival Read More »
One of the wonderful things about learning another language—like German—is that it opens the door to a new culture full of diverse ideas, people, and perspectives. Actress Vicky Krieps embodies this ideal. Fluent in several languages, she has not limited her film performances to just one. This month, dive deeper into the world of Vicky
Learn German with Films of Vicky Krieps Read More »
Across Japan, there are only twelve original castles left. In the charming city of Himeji is Himeji Castle, Japan’s most famous and best-preserved castle. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is remarkable to experience–whether from inside, climbing to the top, or from outside, marveling at its architecture. In addition to this must-see fortress, Himeji offers a
Himeji Day Trip Guide: Explore Himeji Castle & Koko-en Garden Read More »
Nearly a decade ago, my husband and I became interested in the Japanese comedy show Documental. The premise is simple: comedians are locked in a room and forbidden from laughing. Their goal is to eliminate each other by making their opponents laugh. Nothing is off-limits, and frankly, it is remarkable that some of it made
Experiencing Japanese Comedy: How to Attend Yoshimoto Comedy Night in Tokyo Read More »
Few things are as instantly recognizable as sumo wrestling, with its powerful athletes and minimal attire. After nearly a decade of watching sumo on television, I finally experienced a Grand Sumo Tournament in Tokyo, Japan. For those new to the sport or those looking to attend their first tournament, this guide covers how to get
Grand Sumo Tournament in Tokyo: Tickets, Best Seats & Tips Read More »
