15 Reasons Hikkaduwa Will Be The Next Popular Attractions

If you want to see beauty in chaos, Hikkaduwa should be your next travel destination. Even though the unplanned infrastructure does get to you, the small town in Sri Lanka still manages to offer a few pretty fabulous experiences to its unsure visitors.

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1. The Best Bargain
For the general European and American, Hikkaduwa is a budget beach destination with a relaxed hand on the wallet. Everything is affordable- from the food to the drinks to the accommodation.

2. Yoga
Hikkaduwa has many Yoga retreats which offer rejuvenating Yoga classes that soothe your mind, body, and soul. No matter what your age, this tops anyone’sthings-to-do list while in Hikkaduwa.

3. History

A beloved place since the 1800’s, Hikkaduwa is known for its historic temples dating back to thousands of years and is mentioned in the journals of famous people like J. W. Bennett.

4. Food culture
Food culture in Hikkaduwa is one to envy. Delicious sea-food prepared fresh out of the ocean, restaurants by lagoons, burgers offering a bigger than ever bite, and bars and pubs which offer a panoramic view of the never-ending waters- does it get any better than that?

5. Dreamy Beaches

The beaches are what dreams are made of in Hikkaduwa. Pleasant breeze, sunny goodness and divine sand, all create the perfect backdrop for heart-warming sunsets

6. Surf Surf Surf!
Hikkaduwa is a Surf paradise in Sri Lanka. The waters give way to perfect waves and during high season, surfers from all over the world make the beach their home.

7. Underwater Heaven

For those of you who would rather explore the depths of the ocean than ride the waves, Hikkaduwa is known for its Diving and Snorkeling institutes which give you a crash-course in the art of depth diving. See schools of fishes and coral reefs shine as you make your way through shipwrecks. The National Park Reserve offers snorkeling gear for rent and rides in glass-bottomed boats.

8. Moonstone

There are moonstone mines on the outskirts of Hikkaduwa where you can buy mined Moonstone jewelry at good prices. Those rings you rock later will surely be the perfect way to remember the beautiful city.

9. The Tsunami Museum

The Tsunami in Sri Lanka even though caused a havoc added more to its humility and is etched in its history. The museum retells the story of the high waves and is perfect for a family visit.

10. The Pristine Lake
The Hikkaduwa Lake is good for bird-watching as you boat ride through the waters. The weather is mostly pleasant and a smooth sail across the lake soothes any traces of stress

11. Religious Attractions
The religious attractions in Hikkaduwa are serene and quiet beautifully built. The Seenigama Vihara and Gangarama Maha Vihara are one of the most popular tourist attractions to visits when in Hikkaduwa.

12. Ayurveda
Most of the Yoga retreats offer Ayurveda consultancy and massages, but there are few centers which exclusively offer the traditional, holistic therapy to anyone who visits.

13. Shopping
Hikkaduwa is the perfect place to buy small local goods, souvenir, traditional clothes, and moonstone jewelry and to the many who want a local experience, this one tops the list! what you waiting for plan your vacation for Hikkaduwa with the help of Hikkaduwa travel planner.

14.  Pleasant Weather

Hikkaduwa has a pleasant, humid weather almost all year round and even though the rainy season can get pretty tricky, the other months more than make up for the loss.

15. Nightlife
The nightlife is a big contribution of the Surfer populations which comes to the small town to try the waves. Beach parties with good music and beer is not uncommon and if you are looking for a place to visits after dark, this might just be it.

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Things to do in Rio-de-Janeiro City in Winter

Things to do in Rio-de-Janeiro City in Winter

Rio-de-Janeiro; a modern heaven of Samba with breath-taking city views and the famous ‘Christ The Redeemer’ which is the crown jewel of Brazil. Beautiful people and mind-blowing nightlife, Rio-de-Janeiro is known for its warm hospitality just like its breeze.

You may plan your vacation through trip planning website .

For a first time traveller however, Rio-de-Janeiro in summers can be a bit daunting – making Winter (December- February) an ideal time for really getting into the groove of the city. Read on to know what you can do on your winter trip to perhaps the most loved city on the planet.

1. Christ The Redeemer:

 Standing regally with open arms on mount Corcovado in the Tijuca Forest, Christ The Redeemer is a must when you visit Rio-de Janeiro. The statue took 9 years to build and is synonym to the city. Hike through to the mountain to embrace the view. The statue is at its best after dark.

2. Copacabana:

 A beautiful beach with the most serene view is the perfect way to experience the pleasant winters in Rio-de-Janeiro. If are not a beach buff then the promenade by the beach is perfect for a stroll anytime of the day. The beach is also a part of the annual Carnival.

3. Santa Teresa: 

 Santa Teresa is the perfect place if you want to get familiar with the art pulse of the city. The neighbourhood was originally known as the elite centre of Rio-de- Janeiro witnessed by its beautiful mansions and narrowing streets which now accommodate some of the best art galleries in the city.

4. Sugarloaf Mountain: 

 Known for its distinct shape which sticks out from Rio’s Peninsula, the Sugarloaf Mountain is the perfect spot to see the city like never before. Take a Cable-car ride to reach the peak. Don’t forget to capture the views of the Atlantic as you relish in its breeze.

5. Feira Hippie: 

 The Feira Hippie is the Sunday hippie market of the city. A melange of trinkets, handicrafts, jewellery, foods, leather products, this place is a must if you love street shopping and don’t mind digging in to find your latest favourites!

6. Cultural Branco Do Brasil:

 The building is one of the Rio-de-Janeiro’s oldest and is known for its magnanimous and intricate architecture. Originally a bank, today the place is open for public use as an exhibition centre, three theatres and a video room along with a tea room. Don’t miss the spectacular exhibition by the world known artist Picasso!

7. Rio Carnival: 

The Rio carnival is a mega festival which Brazil is proud to show off every year at the end of winter. The street carnival which is hosted at the Sambadrone and the Copacabana Palace and beach, is an open parade with welcoming arms for its many tourists this time of the year. Groove to the music as you watch the iconic dancers dance like never before.

8. Petropolis: 

 One of the biggest winter attractions in Rio, Petropolis is known for its Summer Palace which is now a museum. Visit the Wax Museum, Rio Negro Palace sure to make you day trip count. The place is literally a walk in Rio’s rich history.

9. São Bento Monastery:

Baroque architecture at its best, the Sao Bento Monastery is known for its larger than life design and still functions to arrange weekly masses for its new admirers. Note that the magnificent organ still used here is from late 17th Century!

10. Urca:

 On your way down from the Sugarloaf Mountain, take a pit stop at Urca Beach to have a drink and enjoy the beautiful sunsets that the city is known for. If you like a little adventure, take a dip in the cold waters to make it a memorable stop.

Rio-de-Janeiro has carved out a unique place for itself on the globe and is the most visited city in the history of tourism! Catch up with its vibrant pulse which celebrates life to the maximum.

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Why Couples Must Visit Taj Mahal

Why Couples Must Visit Taj Mahal

In India Taj Mahal is considered as the most romantic spot for couples to visit. Getting a romantic idea for a trip to Taj Mahal is not difficult, every website or an agency gives you travel information and the tour guide.

Tourist Information:
A first visit to Agra could easily trigger an attack of Agra-phobia. With its notorious sprawl and congestion, this north Indian city has, on the face of it, little to lure visitors... apart from what is arguably the world’s most famous building.

The Taj Mahal may also be the world’s busiest tomb: up to 60,000 people a day packs into it. With the entire bustle and the chatter, all the jostling for photographs and the tour guides blowing whistles to keep their groups together, it can feel more like a market than a mausoleum. There’s good reason for the sign urging simply: “Please keep quiet.”

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The Taj Mahal has become a victim of its own perfection. But in the right light, it is magical, looming like a mirage through its main gateway. It seems to float, as though painted on gauze: pink at dawn and dusk, dazzling white at noon, pearly silver by moonlight.

It is many visitors’ first experience of India, often viewed as part of a “Golden Triangle” tour that also takes in the great monuments of Delhi and Jaipur. Such trips offer newcomers a taste of the exoticism they might expect from India: a pageant of palaces, forts, heat, dust, elephant rides and snake charmers.

You cannot think of Agra without thinking of Taj Mahal. Or, you might not have thought of Agra were it not for the monument of love. Taj Mahal, the white marble beauty was constructed by Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal. The monument stands proof for the brilliance of Mughal architecture. Named as one of the wonders of the world, Taj Mahal stands the test of time. It has been declared as World Heritage Site in the year 1983. It is a feast to your eyes and senses to watch the unmatched beauty on the night of full moon day.

Get along with your love at monument of love. The beautiful place shall mesmerize you with its beauty. Visit local market, Itmad Ud Daulah and may other beautiful places.

Home to one of the 7 wonders of the world, Taj Mahal, Agra is always the top entry in any couples bucket list. With the biggest landmark in the world depicting love, Taj Mahal along with Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri is a sneak peek into the architectural history of India, particularly the Mughals. The everyday crown of the city is a proof of its popularity. However for best experience we suggest you visit Taj Mahal on a full moon night. Agra, also being very conveniently located near Delhi, makes it the top place near Delhi for any romantic couple. You may also visit Agra with the help of Agra trip planner.

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EMZBBMoeZIY

Taj Mahal personifies what is love and is a tribute paid by a man to the love of his life. As a newly-wed couple, love will definitely capture your senses. Every couple should visit this crest of love at least once in their lifetime. Nothing could be more romantic and inspiring than visiting Taj Mahal for the newlywed couples.

Loveless life is nothing! It is only the beautiful memories create sparks in your relationship! Get the everlasting spark blessed by majesty of mesmeric Taj Mahal, cherished forever. Taj Mahal might be a popular travel attraction and look breathtakingly beautiful! Royal colossal and classy! An Iconic manifestation of Mughal architecture .Beyond all these, it is one of the most romantic places on the planet!

Bali: An Enchanted Island To Enjoy Stress Free Vacation

Vacation in a new city might sound interesting. You start looking for the new things to see in the city. However, such vacations, sometimes leave a bad taste in your mouth. The stress which you tried to escape in your vacation, might overburden you. So, instead of choosing cities, why not choose upon islands? Look for an island where you can shrug off your burdens and enjoy a laid back vacation. And the perfect for this suggestion is Bali. With enchanting beauty and charming smile, Bali welcomes every visitor with open arms to enjoy its free-spirit ambience. Its bohemian and bold attitude have attracted many travelers throughout the year, especially the ones who are fond of water sports. And to explore such adventurous spirit, you need to have the perfect Bali Trip Planner.

Apart from being an island for adventurous vacation, Bali is also considered a spiritual place. With lots of temples like the Tirta Empul temple, Uluwatu temple, Tanah Lot temple, and Besakih temple, Bali can surely take you on a spiritual journey. However, when you are adding these names in your Bali trip planner, add few details. For instance, visit Uluwatu temple at early evening to watch the sunset from the 70-meter cliff. Similarly, from Besakih temple trek through the jungle to climb up Mount Agung. As you reach the top of the mountain, you get to see panoramic view of entire Balie. Trust me, the view is absolutely mesmerizing. If you miss out on these small details, then you are going to miss out a lot in this island.

Apart from these temples, there are many other best places to visit in Bali. Like Bali Marine and Safari Park, where you can enjoy wildlife safari.  Pod Chocolate factory and Café is another remarkable place where you can get a cute hug from honey bears. Don’t miss out Gala-Gala (underground house), Tegellanlang rice terraces, Ubud monkey forest and the unknown beaches of Bali.

Now to make your trip unique, add up the list of things to do in Bali.  For instance, stay at unique hotels like villas where you can stay with animals or resorts made out of bamboo. For food, choose restaurants that let you enjoy your food right in the middle of paddy fields or go for themed restaurants.  Apart from these, try your hand on other activities like walk under the water to watch the marine world. And if you are fond of jewelry, you cannot afford to miss John Hardy workshop where you can see your jewelry being made right in front of you.

Hence, if you wish to explore Bali, move out of the walled rooms of your resorts.

Madrid - The True Face of Spain

In recent times, tourism has increased remarkably in Spain. With this improvement, economic stability also came in. However, it is not only Spain that is solely responsible for such improvement. Madrid, its capital city has played a significant role. With a fine blend of fine arts and fine dining places, Madrid has become a hot spot for visitors, which influence them to visit Spain over and over again. Now, exploring this fantastic bustling city is not an easy job. You need the perfect Madrid trip planner to discover the serene beauty of this magical city, So plan a travel itinerary for Madrid .

To start off your journey in this beautiful city, head off to the famous Campo del Marco. Though this dramatic downhill garden of the Royal Palace in Madrid might seem to be too crowded, the maze of trees around the garden is a perfect treat for eyes in the early morning hours. Walk through the woods to detox your mind and body. Other places that you can put at the beginning of your Madrid trip planner are Madrid Rio, tunnel M30 to drive around the city, Sierra Guadarrama for hiking or go for Teleferico rides to enjoy a bird’s eye view of Madrid.

So, you have already started off with your plan! Now, it’s time to check out the best places to visit in Madrid.  In this list, names like Museo del Prado, Museo Thyssen- Bornemisza, Ateneo de Madrid, Basilica de San Francisco El Grande, Palacio Real, Caixa Forum, Templo de Debod and Atocha train station. Though most of the names in this list are popular tourist spots, few of them on the other hand, let you discover the off-beaten sides of Madrid.

By this time, you must be high on metabolism. And to cool off yourself, pamper your tummy as much as possible. For this, nothing can beat San Gines Chocolaterie– the most famous breakfast place to start off a day in Madrid. Its famous churros with creamy chocolate are tempting enough to influence you to cheat your own diet.  Another thing to do in Madrid is watching their famous traditional game- bull fight. And watching it in La Plaza de Toros de Las Ventas will be an added bonus. With thrilling crowd and intense ambience, you are definitely going to end up cheering the matadors. Last but not the least, dress like a local and walk around the famous marketplace of Madrid – Mercado San Miguel.

All in all, Madrid is a city that offers perfect pictures to add up in your travel album.

Kuala Lumpur Activities Satisfies Tourist of All Ages and Segments

Kuala Lumpur sooner or later becomes a second home for those who wish for a warm sun, vast cultural diversity and friendly locals instantly. There are abundant sightseeing offering and tons of things to do here, starting from day trips to cool stations and huge malls and exotic fish spas. Recreational activities in Kuala Lumpur are far from lacking, though the city seems like a concrete jungle. Let us discuss the best of things to do here.

You can plan your trip through Kuala Lumpur trip planner

Recreational Activities-

Golfing and Gyms:
KL has the best attractions for golfers with its best golf courses in the country club and for tourist, who wishes to keep track with their fitness, there is a wealth of local and international fitness centres throughout the city.

Rock Climbing:
For the adventurous tots, there is some adrenaline pumping action with this rock climbing endeavour. The limestone outcroppings of the Batu Caves have few climbing points for professional and novice climbers and are one best activity to do in Kuala Lumpur. The cave has more than 100 climbing holes and is a religious spot as well.

Jungle Trekking:
There are about four jungle tracks that take visitors through the spectacular jungle and the greenery and tourists could also opt for the canopy walk with camping facilities available for visitors to experience the best of nightlife.

Spa:
Spa and relaxation centres here are worth a mention as they strive their best to relax the mind, soul and body. Kuala Lumpur is the centre for both international and local spa in both traditional and modern methods. The international hotels here also offer Spa treatments and are one of the best recreational activities in Kuala Lumpur. Fish spa is famous her and is also a traditional treatment to get rejuvenated and senses awakened with the invigorating treatment with fishes.

Theme Parks:
These were developed for kids and frame the most entertaining Kuala Lumpur activities. The Cosmo theme park is the largest indoor parks in Malaysia with differently themes areas for kids and families.  The Desa water park located within the KL limits is easily accessible and also caters the entertainment needs of the entire family.

The cool gentling highlands, at the outskirts of the city hosted both indoor and outdoor theme parks to keep kids, families and thrill seekers busy. Tourist could enjoy the best splashing fun with the heated pools in this park. The largest casinos are also available within these parks. Plan your vacation through travel sites.

Winter recreation activities to do in Kuala Lumpur cater around Mines wonderland, which hosts open air musical theatre. Water dance here, incorporates water, music and water, 3D aqua laser show and dragon sculptures.

The Sunway Lagoon water park hosts the best amusement in water with the best wildlife for families and thrill seekers.

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10 Tokyo Customs That Will Surprise you

Sushi food, cherry blossoms, rising sun and a bustling metro-city, Tokyo is one of the top destinations of the world where people prefer travelling to. And as the proverb goes; ‘when in Rome, do as Romans do’ is applicable to this City as well.

You can  plan your vacation through Tokyo trip planner .

Here are some quirkiest customs of Tokyo that will surprise you (and also prep you up for the trip to Tokyo:

10. Don’t Tip:
Yes, while tipping is welcomed and offer considered the sign of the classiness in most of the world, it is considered rude in Tokyo; often taken as a sign of insult.

Be it cabs, restaurants, personal care, remember not to tip; or you might be frowned upon!

9. Making Noises while Slurping:

As unpleasant and irritating it is, making loud noises while eating noodles or slurping a soup is considered as a custom to show that you have like the food served. So go ahead and be a child again..slurrrrppp

8. Go Commando:
Okay, someone just made Joey Tribbiani’s dream come true! The Onsen or the hot-baths have a rule of ‘no-swimsuits’! Although, they have a red and blue bifurcation for females and males; sigh of relief? (Or despair!)

7. No Shoes:

Like most of the Asian countries, Tokyo also has the “take off your shoes rule” before entering any home or any flooring with Japanese tatami mats. Not so surprising until you know that this also applies to restaurants, hotels and hot spring resorts.

6. Stand Left Pass Right:
Japanese believe that two opposite stand for everything, so when using an escalator, always follow the rule- stand left pass right.

5. Don’t blow your noise in Public:
Although unappreciated everywhere in the world, blowing your nose in public is considered as a rude way to seek attention and stand out from the rest of others! Better use a washroom!

4. Kampai:
It is considered super uncouth to drink before saying “Kampai” which implies to “cheers”!  Kampai; learn it by heart!

3. No Tattoos in Public Baths:
Tokyo has a wide range of public baths like Sento(neighbourhood bathhouses) and Onsens( hot baths) and guests are always requested to bath first and cleanse their bodies. But beware, the sanctity of Ofuro (bath) is of utmost importance and tattoos are not welcomed and you might get a lot of stares or even be asked to stay out of the water. You may also book a trip for Tokyo.

2. Bowing and Shaking:

Bowing is considered as a sign of respect and is one of the must-do things in Tokyo when you want to greet someone. But be careful, never shake your hands and bow at the same time! It is not only awkward, but also not well-received.

1.Chopsticks:

Locals are very particular about the use of chopsticks and playing with them as if it were a toy will not be liked. Also, never put the chopsticks on a plate; they should be kept on the chopstick holder provided. Also, if you are not too comfortable using them- learn how to; it is very important! Even if you are on just a three-day Tokyo travel itinerary!

Dishes you Must Taste in Singapore

Singapore is made for foodies. It is truly a match made in heaven. Whether you choose to try bites at the local street vendors or go big on gourmet paradise, the city amazes every kind of foodie with its fantastic flavors, fabulous variety of cuisine and its rustic art of cooking!Singapore offers a lot to do- shopping, hiking though rainforests, befriending the wild-life of the region, but food-hunting is one of those things in the city which takes the crown! So you can plan your vacation through Singapore Trip Planner.

For those hungry to know which dishes are not to be missed in the city, go grab a pen to note down these legends!

1. BakKutTeh
Much popularly known as the Pork Bone Tea Soup, Bah Kut The is broth goodness at its best. The pepper and garlic adds just enough to keep the tastelingering and make you go for another spoonful!

2. Burnt Bee Hoon
Crispy rice vermicelli on top and soft, sticky at the bottom, the Bee Hoon gets its flavor from the burnt outer layer.  The dish is often served with pork meat, dried shrimps, carrots, half fried eggs and other varieties.

3. Curry Laksa
Laksa is the ultimate fusion food with Chinese and Malay influences made with a spicy broth of coconut milk or tangy tamarind sauce. Vermicelli with chicken or sea-food are left to simmer in the broth to give it its signature slurp!

4. Wanton Mee
The sweet-spiciness of Wanton Mee makes its special. Usually eaten quiet dry with the optional soup and a fragrant sauce, the Wanton Mee is comfort food with a dash of something new!

5. Fish Head Curry
The Fish Head Curry has many variants- the bold spices in Indian variety, light and soothing in Chinese variety and the tamarind flavor used in Assam. Either ways, the head of the Red Snapper with veggies is common and as you relish in its wholesome taste- one serving just won’t be enough.

6. Chai Tow Kway (Fried Carrot cake)
The name for Carrot and Daikon is the same in Chinese and even though called the Carrot Cake, the hero of the dish is Daikon mixed with rice flour and pepper and salt. The savory dish is the ideal breakfast treat and you will often find locals ordering for the cake even without looking at the menu! The sweet variety of the carrot cake is also equally tempting.

7. Satay
One of the oldest foods in Singapore, the Satay is simply marinated meat grilled to perfection on short skewers and served with spicy peanut sauce!

The flavors of soy and pepper really shine through the dish, and if you are looking for fast food in Singapore, this is your yummiest bet!

8. BakChorMee
Noodles served with minced meat and slices of fish cake and drizzled with a vinaigrette sauce, the BakChorMee is best enjoyed with spices! You get to choose which kind of noodles you like-flat or thin. We let you decide which one is the best!

9. Dim Sum
Dim Sum is glorified in western cities but what you get in Singapore is the real deal. Bamboo baskets which hold the delicate wraps filled with just about everything- from pork meat, to veggies, to chicken meat and duck meat, you can choose from a tray full of options!

10. Oyster Omelette
This is one of the signature dishes in Singapore which are truly made gourmet around the world but is a local staple in the city! The soy sauce with eggs and sea-flavored oysters are a hell of a combination and with the fresh coriander, the omelet is no less than any fine-dine option! what you waiting for, plan your travel itinerary for Singapore .

One of the most popular travel tips while in Singapore- let your taste buds go wild and don’t be afraid to try anything new!

A Photo Tour of Switzerland

Bohemian Switzerland:

 

This sprawling national park is just a 90 minute drive from Prague, but it may as well be on a different planet. You will find no trace of city life here.

Day Trips:

The first thought that comes to most people’s minds when the Czech Republic is mentioned is Prague. Which is totally understandable, as Prague is iconic, and gorgeous.

Soutěsky Kamenice:

The first stop on our Bohemian excursion were the Gorges of Kamenice, a deep and narrow mossy valley carved out of sandstone.

The pole boats glided over the dark shallow waters, taking us for a short ride through narrow passes between grey-green lichen crusted slabs of rock.

Pravcicka Gate:

Pravcicka Gate is undoubtedly the most photographed location in Bohemian Switzerland, and with good reason. Just look at it. It’s huge.

Saxon Switzerland National Park

 Laying adjacent to Bohemian Switzerland, Saxon Switzerland National Park is located right across the German border.

Source: http://www.justapack.com/day-trips-prague-bohemian-switzerland/

For read more: 7 Wonderful Things To Do In Switzerland

Japan Culture And Travel Advice From Locals

Before visiting Japan one should do a lot of research and read a lot of information about various topics. When you go to the country, some of what you read proves itself to be useful and some of it not so useful. There are other things that you encounter that you have never read about that you wish you had known before you arrived. There are a lot of sites out there that give you the basics that you need to know and I don’t intend to repeat them, instead here are  useful local treats tips that you should know before visiting Japan that aren’t on the usual lists and also trip plans and travel hacks of the journey of wanderlust Japan. So plan your amazing trip using trip planner.

Mobile Phone Data

When you travel overseas you grab yourself a prepaid SIM card from one of the local mobile phone companies and you are all set for phone calls and data for the duration of your trip. In Japan however, prepaid mobile SIM cards are not widely available. There is one company, B-mobile, who does offer prepaid SIM cards for foreigners. The one you’ll want if you go down this route comes with 1GB of data that expires after 14 days. It’s already activated and you can organise online for it to be delivered to your hotel for when you arrive in Japan. Note that this SIM is data only (no phone calls or SMS) and is useless once the 1GB/14 days has expired. It connects you to the NTT Docomo network which has excellent coverage and is very reliable.

B-mobile does offer some other prepaid SIM cards but these are aimed at the domestic market that have more data and no expiry. To activate one of these you’ll still need access to a Japanese mobile phone and, coupled with the language barrier, this is not really a viable option unless you know someone in Japan who can do this for you.

Maps

Most of the street signs in Japan are in Japanese and although it seems obvious, this can really make it hard to get your bearings – the street signs simply don’t mean anything to someone who can’t read Japanese characters. This is also the case when it comes to maps on your phone (for example, Google Maps). Why this is not as obvious as it seems is because when you travel, you can generally type in an English address and you will get the spot you need in Google Maps regardless. In Japan however typing in an English address or place name will only sometimes bring up a useful result – popular attractions, major shops etc. Often searching for a particular place or an address in Google Maps in Japan will bring up either an incorrect result or no result at all. If you really want to find a place, make sure you know the Japanese address as well, which you can usually figure out doing a regular Google search. What you waiting for plan your trip for Japan with the help of Japan trip planner.

On the topic of maps and street names not being in English, Google Maps combined with GPS on your phone is an even more invaluable tool than usual. When you go get your destination pinpointed on Google Maps finding it is a lot easier. If what you’re looking for is on the street level of a main street then this isn’t as big of a deal but in Japan a lot of places are on side streets, down laneways, in basements, on the nth floor of a building. With street signs being, to a native English speaker, indecipherable, it can be very hard to get your bearings and find a place when in an area that you don’t know.

Acceptance Of Credit Cards
Credit card acceptance is quite low in Japan and it is very much a cash society. On your first time in Japan you will find credit card acceptance to be very similar, perhaps only slightly less than most of the developed nations that you’ve visited around the world. The main difference with credit card acceptance in Japan is that everywhere that accepts credit cards accepts all credit cards with no surcharge. It is a real “all or nothing” approaches and in fact whenever you will use your credit card you will be able to use your American Express card (which has quite competitive exchange rates) and you don’t have to reach for your Visa card once.

You can encounter a handful of restaurants and bars that you would  assume accepted credit cards that is cash only, for example a Michelin starred restaurant but conversely a few of the market stalls and small “mom and pop” stores that you assume would be cash only did accept credit cards. A lot of 100-200 yen (USD$1-$2) convenience store purchases will be made on your credit card.

Withdrawing Cash From ATMs
This is another area where research brought up conflicting information. Foreign bank cards will not work in most Japanese ATMs however this is not an issue as you can use your foreign ATM card to withdraw cash from ATMs located at Post Offices and 7-11 stores. The ATMs at the Post Offices are open at the same times that the Post Office is open and the 7-11 ATMs are open 24/7. Since 7-11 stores can be found all over Japan’s major cities it’s easy to withdraw cash when you need to. The ATMs have an English option too so they are easy to navigate. You actually don’t need to take much cash out during your time in Japan due to the unexpectedly high credit card acceptance that you encounter.

The Coin With A Hole In It
This might catch you out on your first day in Japan when you are sorting through your change and come across a round bronze coin with a hole in it and no denomination (that you could understand). Its value is 5 yen.

Note that the 50 yen coin also has a hole in it as one of my readers pointed out, however that one is silver and has “50” written on it.