Author Archives: farflungistan

What to see in Tokyo: Design Festa Gallery Harajuku

Design Festa Gallery as they say it is ‘the space where the dreams of artists connect with visitors, ‘ .    The space allows anyone to exhibit as long as it is original. They have had over 4500 exhibits  since 1998. The space is constantly changing and there’s always something interesting to see.  It’s a greatContinue reading “What to see in Tokyo: Design Festa Gallery Harajuku”

What to see in Tokyo: Weddings @ Meiji Jingu Shinto Shrine

The Meiji Jingu Shinto Shrine in the Harajuku section of Tokyo is a great place to witness Japanese weddings of various traditions on the weekends.  The surrounding tree filled park is a great place to go if you need a break from the clean but crowded streets of Harajuku. It is Toyko’s Central Park andContinue reading “What to see in Tokyo: Weddings @ Meiji Jingu Shinto Shrine”

The Unlikelihood of Attractive Convertible Travel Pants

Packing for a trip that goes from a week to a year is pretty easy, provided that you keep a zen state of mind.  It’s all about keeping the bag as light and as carefree as possible so that you can focus on the import things, you know like enjoying yourself. Having a ‘light stateContinue reading “The Unlikelihood of Attractive Convertible Travel Pants”

5 Travel Tips for New York City

I’ve lived in this amazing city for the past decade and have managed to hold my own when I’m out and about.  I like most people living and working on this island do a lot of walking.  Not only is it the best way to get around but it’s sometimes the fastest (weather permitting ofContinue reading “5 Travel Tips for New York City”

Things to do before checking in to a Budget Hotel – Hotel Tip

Whether you just show up or book online always check the room before handing over the cash.  Here’s why: But the lobby’s nice… Don’t get stuck with the smelly room with broken shower head and lop-sided bed. All hotels have these. Bargain… See what you are getting and then negotiate rate based on quality ,Continue reading “Things to do before checking in to a Budget Hotel – Hotel Tip”

How do you afford to Travel?

This is a question I get from time to time.  It’s simple and it only takes a little sacrifice, motivation and organization. Here are some of the things I do to save for the next trip. 1.  Manage Eating out. Eat at home as much as possible, take lunch to work and instead of diningContinue reading “How do you afford to Travel?”

Central Park, angry people and flowers in the rain

It was a more typical late March day in Central Park NYC today.  We have been spoiled with the unseasonably mild warm weather the last week or so.  I still enjoy a misty cool day in NYC since I had the park to myself.  Just me and a few horse and bike carriages.  A horsemanContinue reading “Central Park, angry people and flowers in the rain”