17 Must See Cities For Your First Time in Europe

Narrowing down the must see cities for your first time in Europe is a daunting task. In a sprawling continent full of grand cathedrals, romantic cityscapes, and decadent dishes, how do you choose where to go?

London skyline with river in foreground, one of the must see cities for first time in Europe.

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40 Best Souvenirs From Japan: From Manga to Matcha

As a minimalist traveler, I rarely buy things when I go abroad. But when my husband and I first visited Tokyo and Kyoto, we stuffed two bags full of the best souvenirs from Japan. In a land known for quality products, rich culture, and ultra-cute characters, you’ll want to fill every nook and cranny of your suitcase with Japanese souvenirs.

Colorful vintage kimono are the best souvenirs from Japan.

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Tokyo Like a Local: 9 Unique Things to Do

Tokyo is the world’s second largest city and one of the most popular tourist destinations. Travelers who fall in love with this city find themselves drawn back again and again. But even repeat visitors can miss out on experiencing Tokyo like a local, and often end up doing the same touristy activities time and time again.

Typical Japan street with bikes seen when traveling Tokyo like a local.

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Visiting Amsterdam in Spring: 7 Bucket List Experiences

Summer is when most cities shine their brightest, but for Amsterdam the spring season takes the crown. After a dreary winter, Amsterdam comes alive with flowers in the parks, sunshine in the skies, and boats along the canals. Visiting Amsterdam in spring is an enchanting, colorful experience that belongs on every traveler’s bucket list.

Pink tulip baskets by black door spotted while visiting Amsterdam in spring

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Must Eat Food in Japan: Where to Find the Best Dishes

Japan is the only country where it’s nearly impossible to have a bad meal. Even the food on my ANA flight was delicious and artfully presented, and I was seated in coach! If you want to sample the country’s best dishes, this guide to the must eat food in Japan has got you covered.

Colorful plate of sushi rolls and nigiri, a must eat food in Japan.

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11 Best Day Trips From Tokyo by Bullet Train

Thanks to the expanding shinkansen network, exploring Japan has never been easier. And if you’re a foreign visitor, you can zip around the country without spending a fortune on tickets! These day trips from Tokyo by bullet train take full advantage of the Japan Rail Pass.

Mount Fuji and purple flower field viewed from Tokyo bullet train day trip.

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Berlin off the Beaten Path: 13 Unique Places to Visit

Berlin is on nearly everyone’s list when traveling to Germany. And given the city’s history, art, and feel-good, hip vibe, it’s easy to see why. While places like East Side Gallery, Brandenburg Gate, and Check-Point Charlie draw the biggest crowds, there are also tons of fantastic things to do in Berlin off the beaten path.

Aerial view of market in Berlin off the beaten path.

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Comprehensive Japan Travel Checklist for First Time Visitors

If you’re traveling to Japan for the first time, you’re probably feeling a mix of excitement and anxiety. Planning a trip to Japan can be overwhelming, especially if you haven’t done much international travel! Luckily, I’m here to share my personal Japan travel checklist to help you prepare for the trip of a lifetime.

Tokyo Asakusa Shrine during cherry blossom season should be on everyone's Japan travel checklist

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