Tortuga Setout vs Osprey Farpoint: A Hands-on Review

In the world of carry-on travelers, a debate rages: Tortuga Setout vs Osprey Farpoint. Which of these bags comes out on top–or should I say “on back”? Let’s take a closer look at these popular front loading travel backpacks.

Side-by-side front view of black Tortuga Setout vs Osprey Farpoint backpacks on grass.

Read More

34 Gift Ideas for Someone Moving to Another Country

With remote working and digital nomadism on the rise, there’s a good chance someone in your life will be moving abroad soon. While “going away presents” are nothing new, it’s challenging to come up with gift ideas for someone moving to another country.

Hand holding metal stamp magnet next to table of gift ideas for someone moving to another country.

Read More

Kyoto 2 Day Itinerary: A Super Efficient Guide

Writing this Kyoto 2 day itinerary was an interesting challenge. Trying to condense my favorite city into 48 hours of sightseeing was no simple feat! But if you can only afford to spend two days in Kyoto, this itinerary will guide you through the ancient city’s highlights as efficiently as possible.

Pink cherry blossoms near river and bridge spotted during Kyoto 2 day itinerary.

Read More

13 Easy Day Trips from Kyoto for Nature Lovers

Kyoto is a wonderfully verdant city. Travelers flock here for bamboo groves, flower-lined paths, and tranquil shrine gardens. But if you have some time to spare, there are plenty of easy day trips from Kyoto that will particularly delight nature lovers.

Miho no Matsubara beach with Mount Fuji views is one of the best day trips from Kyoto.

Read More

Osaka-Kyoto-Nara Itinerary: 6 Amazing Days in Kansai Japan

Vibrant streets, awe-inspiring temples, delicious street food… This Osaka-Kyoto-Nara itinerary has it all. If you only have one week in Japan and want to experience as much of the country’s culture and history as possible, head to the Kansai region!

View over Kyoto city from Kiyomizudera main gate area as seen during Osaka Kyoto Nara itinerary.

Read More

Lake Biwa Day Trip: Water, Mountains, and Sacred Sites

If you’re traveling through Japan’s Kansai region, a Lake Biwa day trip is the perfect addition to your itinerary. From floating torii gates to mountain top temples, there’s more to this area than the typical lakeside activities you’d expect.

Floating torii gate at sunrise, a popular place to visit during a Lake Biwa day trip.

Read More

Japan Off the Beaten Path: 16 Amazing Japan Hidden Gems

When planning a dream trip to Japan, the bustling cities of Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka usually spring to mind. But it would be a mistake not to explore Japan off the beaten path, even if it’s your first trip to the country.

Woman with red umbrella walking through forest in Japan off the beaten path.

Read More