Los Angeles, California
Kyoto, Japan
Kyoto’s Hidden Gem Special Night Illumination
One of Kyoto, Japan’s best autumn illuminations is held at Konkaikomyo-ji or Kurodani Temple. This is near Heian Shrine, Shinnyodo, Honenin, Eikando, and other popular fall colors spots. We attended its special evening opening and share our photos and thoughts on the experience here. If you’re looking for a normal overview of the temple, daytime […]
Paris, France
Louvre Museum Review, Info & Tips
The Musée du Louvre in Paris, France is the world’s most famous museum. This review offers tips & tricks for visiting, essential “know before you go” planning info, and photos from our experiences at the Louvre. First, we’ll begin with the latest reopening news. (Updated June 4, 2020.) Musée du Louvre has officially announced that the museum […]
National Parks
Fall Colors in Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Cuyahoga Valley National Park near Cleveland and Akron, Ohio is not one of the “big name” US National Parks, but it features beautiful fall colors. This post shares the best spots for autumn foliage, leaf peeping, a fabulous fall hike to a waterfall, and the current operating status of CVNP. (Updated September 23, 2020.) Let’s […]
Tokyo, Japan
When Will Japan Reopen? (November Update)
A common question we’re receiving is when will Japan lift its travel ban and reopen for international tourists? As a planning site with strategy for visiting Kyoto, Tokyo, and beyond, we’re closely monitoring all advisories and the latest news. (Updated November 9, 2020.) As background, the Japanese central government declared a state of emergency after much […]
Laguna Beach, CA
10 Best Beaches in Laguna Beach, California
Laguna Beach has the best beaches, oceanfront, and public parks in Southern California. In fact, its miles of coast along Pacific Coast Highway might be some of the best in the world. This list ranks the top 10 beaches–plus whether they’re currently open or closed. (Updated September 8, 2020.) While this quiet little beach town […]
Universal Studios
2021 Universal Studios Japan Guide & Tips
This guide to Universal Studios Japan offers tips & tricks for visiting Osaka’s popular theme park, which is home to Wizarding World of Harry Potter and in 2021, Super Nintendo World! This includes USJ strategy & info about where to eat, what to do, how to avoid crowds, minimize wait times, and more! (Updated November 10, […]
Hawaii
Things To Do In Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Looking for tips and the best activities in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park? Here are our top 10 picks for things to do in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, plus photos highlighting the Big Island’s top attraction. Located on the Big Island of Hawaii, HVNP is about 45 minutes from Hilo Airport and 2 hours from Kona […]
1-Day “Best of” Los Angeles Itinerary
/21 Comments/in Itineraries California, L.A., SoCal /by Tom BrickerHave one day in Los Angeles and want to see the city’s highlights? This step-by-step guide is a jam-packed plan that includes the top 5 things to do in L.A., including free museums, beaches, and dining. It’s an ambitious Los Angeles 1-day itinerary, optimized to avoid driving & time stuck in Southern California traffic. (Updated […]