Japan in December 2025: Navigating the Commercial Peak and Year-End Closure
December in Japan is a month of dramatic transformation. If you are planning a trip, understanding the cultural shift is key to success. The month is defined by a critical cultural
Cleansing for the New Year: Experiencing Japan’s Joya no Kane and Hatsumōde Rites
After the dazzling lights of Christmas fade, Japan pivots entirely to the solemn, spiritual rites known as Õmisoka (New Year’s Eve, December 31st). This period marks a profound
Post-Christmas Japan Travel: Viable Destinations After the December 25th Cutoff
Once the lights of the commercial holiday season dim, travelers in Japan face a significant logistical cliff edge. The period starting the day after Christmas, and especially from
Japan’s Great Traditional Festivals of Early December 2025
While much of Japan turns its focus to shimmering winter illuminations and Christmas markets in December, the beginning of the month is anchored by deeply historical festivals. The
Travel Guide: The Rialto Bridge and Market in Venice
The Rialto area is the historic heart of Venice. It has been a center of trade, culture, and daily life for centuries. From its ancient origins as Rivoaltum, this district shaped t
The Doge’s Palace Travel Guide: Exploring Venice’s Iconic Landmark
The Doge’s Palace, or Palazzo Ducale, stands as one of Venice’s most remarkable landmarks. Built in the Venetian Gothic style, this architectural masterpiece once served as the
America’s Most Charming Christmas Towns of 2025, According to Poll
When we asked more than 3,000 Americans which real-life towns most deserve to be the setting of a Hallmark Christmas movie, the results offered more than just a feel-good list –
St. Mark’s Basilica: A Complete Guide to Venice’s Most Iconic Landmark
If there’s one place that captures the grandeur and spirit of Venice, it’s St. Mark’s Basilica. Located in the heart of Piazza San Marco, this magnificent cathedral reflects
Spanish Steps in Rome: A Historic Roman Landmark
The Spanish Steps, known in Italian as the Scalinata di Trinità dei Monti, are among the most iconic landmarks in Rome. Connecting Piazza di Spagna at the base to the Trinità dei
The Trevi Fountain in Rome: History, Tips, and What to Expect
The Trevi Fountain is one of the most iconic sights in Rome and a must for anyone compiling a list of top things to do in Rome. Known in Italian as Fontana di Trevi, it attracts mi
Naples Cathedral (Duomo di Napoli): A Comprehensive Travel Guide
The Naples Cathedral, officially called the Cathedral of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary (Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta), is one of the city’s most sacred landmarks
Royal Palace of Naples (Palazzo Reale di Napoli): A Comprehensive Travel Guide
The Royal Palace of Naples, or Palazzo Reale di Napoli, is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Located on the grand Piazza del Plebiscito, opposite the Basilica di San Franc
Spaccanapoli: A Detailed Travel Guide
Spaccanapoli is one of the most vibrant and historic streets in Naples. Located in the heart of the city’s old quarter, its name means “Naples splitter,” as it appears to div
Castel dell’Ovo Travel Guide: Exploring Naples’ Legendary “Egg Castle”
Castel dell’Ovo, meaning “Egg Castle” in Italian, is one of the most iconic landmarks in Naples and the oldest standing fortification in the city. Located in the historic San
Naples National Archaeological Museum: A Detailed Travel Guide
The Naples National Archaeological Museum, known locally as Museo Archeologico Nazionale di Napoli (MANN), is one of Italy’s most prestigious cultural institutions and a highligh
Things to Do in Naples – Your Essential Southern Italy Itinerary
Pizza, Pompeii, and Catacombs are a few of the things to do in Naples. This southern Italian city has stunning views and culinary fame. It’s a tourist’s dream. The way
Menaggio Travel Guide
Menaggio is a picturesque lakeside town located on the western shore of Lake Como in northern Italy, within the province of Como in Lombardy. Sitting at the mouth of a valley that
Travel Guide: Tremezzo and Villa Carlotta on Lake Como
Tremezzo is a charming town located on the western shore of Lake Como in northern Italy, directly facing Bellagio across the water. It forms part of the municipality of Tremezzina,
Momijigari: Japan’s Tradition of Autumn Leaf Viewing Explained
Every autumn, Japan is transformed by the brilliant reds and golds of its maple trees. The tradition of admiring these colours, known as momijigari, is one of the country’s most
Best Autumn Foliage Festivals in Japan: From Kyoto to Mount Fuji
As November unfolds, Japan bursts into colour with countless autumn foliage festivals that celebrate the changing leaves. From Kyoto’s temple gardens to the lakes at the base of
Meiji Shrine Autumn Festival: Traditional Arts and Yabusame Archery in Tokyo
The Meiji Shrine Autumn Festival is one of Tokyo’s most complete introductions to classical Japanese culture. It runs from 1 to 3 November 2025 to align with Culture Day on 3 Nov