Dear Reader

This month’s Spotlight on Subscriber touches on a destination I haven’t talked much about… until now.

☀️Japan is trending, and not just on TikTok. More of you are booking trips, asking for itinerary help, and curious if it’s family-friendly.

So when subscribers Lindsay and Katie shared their recent girls' trip to Japan (and South Korea!), I knew I had to feature it.

They didn’t hold back either!

From emotional “I can’t believe I’m here” moments to 7-11 sandwiches and Go-Karts through Tokyo, this email is full of inspiration (and real talk) for first-timers.

Spoiler: This destination wasn’t always at the top of their list.

Katie was the trip-leader; she was inspired by Squid Game and K-Dramas. Lindsay needed some extra convincing; but one plane ride later, she was hooked.

“ I didn’t think Japan would be a top 5 destination for me. But after this trip? I already want to go back. — Lindsay

They spent 8 days exploring Japan's vibrant cities: Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. Followed by 5 days in South Korea.

It was a whirlwind of temples, street food, and late-summer heat, but what really stood out was the energy: fast-paced yet deeply respectful, ancient traditions woven into modern life.

It wasn’t just a vacation - it was a culture shift.

✔️Flights: WestJet companion fare (booked ahead in March for Sept Travel)
​✔️Accommodations: Mix of Hotels and Guesthouses
​✔️Getting Around:

• No JR Rail Pass
• Used the Suica App to tap on trains + Pay in Convenience stores
• Google Maps for Walking + Train directions
• ChatGPT + Google Translate for Language Help
• Klook + Japan Ex for Booking Tours and Activities

“ We walked close to 300,000 steps in two weeks. Without comfy shoes and Google Maps, I’d have lost my mind — Lindsay

• 🏮 Spotting a real Geisha stepping out of a taxi in Kyoto
• 👘 Tea Ceremony in Kyoto, complete with kimono dressing
• 🚗 Go-Karting through the streets of Tokyo
• 🍜 Making Udon noodles at a Michelin-starred restaurant
• 🌄 A rare view of Mount Fuji (visible only ~80 days/year)

“ The second we landed I started tearing up. We were really here. It was surreal — Katie

Lindsay and Katie came prepared, but Japan still surprised them. Here’s what stood out, and what they’d do again in a heartbeat.

What helped:​
✔️ Canadian souvenirs like pins and stickers - a huge hit with locals
✔️ Laundry soap - perfect for a mid-trip refresh
✔️ Portable fan and sweat towel - seriously, it was that humid
✔️ Backpacks instead of suitcases - there are stairs everywhere

What surprised them:​
❗ No tipping - but small gifts were appreciated
❗ You can’t just order drinks - food purchases are expected
❗ Keep quiet on trains - and always bow back to staff

Lindsay and Katie raved about:

• 7-11 Egg Sandwiches (yes, really)
• Onigiri and Coolish Ice Cream
• Wagyu + Kobe Beef
• Udon in Osaka
• Corn Tempura

Would you try any of these foods in Japan?

Their next dream stops? Hiroshima, Nagano for skiing, and more time in Kyoto.

Their best advice:

• Don’t overschedule
• Walk slow, look up, and enjoy the little surprises
• Bring extra bags - you will shop
• Wear the best walking shoes you own
• Use Google Maps like your life depends on it

➡️Their Final Advice (And Should You Bring the Kids?)

This wasn’t a luxury trip; it was go, go, go.

With 20,000 to 30,000 steps a day, multiple train transfers, and a lot of stairs, Lindsay and Katie say this kind of trip is perfect for couples or solo travelers who want to dive in deep.

They wouldn’t recommend it with little kids, but for older teens or adventurous families? It’s doable, especially if you build in downtime and skip the heaviest walking days.

Their biggest takeaways? Stay flexible, wear the right shoes, and leave space for surprises.

Here are a few ways to book what they did:

• 🧘 Tea Ceremony in Kyoto (with kimono rental)
• 🍜 Udon-Making Class in Osaka (Michelin-starred)
• 🏎 Tokyo Street Go-Karts (Costume optional!)
• 🛌 Top-Rated Japan Accommodations

A huge thank you to Lindsay and Katie for taking the time to share their story with us! Lindsay has been a subscriber of mine since day 1, and I appreciate her 💖

I know readers also appreciate them passing along so many thoughtful tips to help others save money, time, and maybe even a blister or two.

Next week, I’ll switch gears with something a little more festive (and Halloween-y) for October 31.

But for now, I hope this inspires you to say yes to a big adventure, even if it’s not one you had planned.

Tanya

P.S. Planning a trip?​ Check out my favorite travel resources below. They’re free for you to use, but I may earn a small commission if you book through them. ✈️ My Favorite Travel Resources​ These are the tools we personally use to travel smarter, save money, and stay connected on the road: 🧳 Travel Money + Bookings 💳 Wise Travel Debit Card – No foreign transaction fees 🚘 Cheap Car Rentals on a Budget – The site we always use 🏨 Best Rate on Airport Transfers – Private + group options 🌍 Stay Connected While Traveling 📱 Download my Favorite eSIM – Easy to set up 🛡️ SafetyWing Insurance – Affordable family coverage 🎢 Travel Deals + Bonuses 🏰 Get $10 Off Disneyland Packages Here – Use code TANYA10 💌 The Daily Drop Newsletter – Reward points + travel hacks 👙 My Favorite Bathing Suit - Personally tried and tested for 10+ years 💼 The Tote Bag I love - This bag conveniently slides onto a suitcase handle 🖥️ Want to Start Your Own Blog? 📚 Scale Your Travel Blog – Learn how I make money blogging 💬 Bonus Resources 💬 Join our Caribbean Travel Help Facebook Group – Ask questions, get tips 🎄Join my Christmas Markets in Europe Facebook Group - Advice, inspiration & more 🧭 Browse my Full Resource Page – All the tools I recommend 🌍 Want to Be Featured in an Upcoming Email?​ I’m shining a spotlight on adventurous travelers from our community! Share your recent trip and inspire fellow readers—plus I’ll include a link to your favorite hotel, tour, or tip. ​Click here to fill out the quick questionnaire!​ ​​​​ I'd be honored if you followed me on social media ✨ If you're looking to work with me as a partner for your own travel-related industry, don't hesitate to reach out below! Sponsor Me

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