Historic Temples and Shrines

Kyoto is home to over 2,000 temples and shrines, each telling a unique story. Highlights include:

• Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion): This Zen Buddhist temple, covered in gold leaf, reflects beautifully in the surrounding pond, especially stunning in autumn and winter.
• Fushimi Inari Taisha: Famous for its seemingly endless path of vibrant red torii gates leading up Mount Inari, this Shinto shrine is both a spiritual journey and a visual marvel.
• Kiyomizu-dera Temple: Known for its wooden stage offering panoramic views of the city, it’s especially popular during cherry blossom season.

Traditional Tea Houses and Geisha Culture

The Gion district is the heart of Kyoto’s geisha culture. Here, you can experience the refined world of traditional tea ceremonies, kaiseki dining, and the artistry of geisha and maiko performances. Visiting a tea house offers a rare glimpse into this elegant, centuries-old tradition.

Stunning Natural Beauty

Kyoto’s gardens are masterpieces of landscape design. From the rock garden of Ryoan-ji to the peaceful bamboo grove in Arashiyama, nature blends seamlessly with architecture. Each season brings its own magic—cherry blossoms in spring, vibrant maple leaves in autumn, and tranquil snow-covered landscapes in winter.

Traditional Crafts and Markets

Kyoto is renowned for its traditional crafts, including kimono weaving, pottery, and lacquerware. Visit Nishiki Market to explore local food specialties, or stroll through artisan workshops in the Higashiyama district to witness centuries-old craftsmanship still thriving today.

A Journey Through Time

Kyoto is more than a city; it’s a journey through Japan’s rich cultural history. Whether you’re wandering ancient temples, savoring matcha in a tea house, or exploring its historic streets, Kyoto offers an unforgettable experience of tradition, elegance, and serenity.

Discover the heart of Japan—explore Kyoto’s cultural riches and timeless beauty.

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Though Europe is on every travel enthusiast’s bucket list, airline cancellations, lost baggage, travel costs rising and issues on the ground in Europe may make travelers want to venture elsewhere for their next trip. With airport chaos and ‘Airmageddon’ on the mind, some travelers can also start to look for alternative world destinations to enjoy this fall.

“Europe is a top travel destination, hands down. Explore has many spectacular tours in Europe, but we also have once-in-a-lifetime trips on all seven continents. Places like Colombia, Botswana, Saudi Arabia, Thailand and the U.S. fan favorite, Costa Rica, offering authentic small group experiences led by expert local guides., Michael Edwards, Managing Director, Explore Worldwide told Travel Noire.

See below 8 world destinations that provide alternatives to tourist-packed Europe, according to Explore Worldwide:

1. Jordan

Jordan is known for its desertic areas, impressive ruins and amazing old architecture.

Visitors can experience the most popular tourist destination in Jordan, the ‘rose city’ of Petra, but will also discover Jordan’s rugged beauty and rich heritage with time in the Wadi Rum Desert and Amman and Jerash.

2. Botswana

Botswana is an excellent destination to experience the beauty of remote wilderness and track Africa’s greatest animals. Travelers can stay on a houseboat on the delta, sleep under canvas in the bush and visit Victoria Falls (a.k.a. The Smoke That Thunders).

3. Thailand

Tourism has opened back up in Thailand following its pandemic closure and on this cultural journey the tour ventures into the heart of Thailand where guests will discover ancient sights and cruise along bustling waterways.

According to Explore Worldwide,  visitors can explore Bangkok, cycling through the village of Sukhothai and learning about conservation at the Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai are on the itinerary.

4. Mexico

Mexico is still on many Americans’ go-to lists, and this is an exciting way to journey through the ancient heartland of the Aztecs, Zapotecs and the Maya, while also experiencing Belize and Guatemala.

Visitors can experience the foodie hub of Oaxaca in Mexico, the jungles of Guatemala, explore charming colonial towns and discover ancient sites including Palenque and Tikal.

5. Japan

Japan has also recently opened back up to tourists following the pandemic, and guests on this tour will travel from super-modern Tokyo to villages, castles and temples that remain unchanged from the times of the Shogun and Samurai.

6. Colombia

Travelers can experience  ‘magical realism’ in Colombia. Rich in culture, with enormous biodiversity and a notoriously friendly and welcoming population, a journey through this eclectic country is packed with standout moments.

7. Saudi Arabia

There are few places in the world that could be described as outside the reach of tourism, and Saudi Arabia may be one of them. Images of desert adventures or busy souks are only one side of this eclectic country, known as the birthplace of Islam.

The post 8 World Destinations Outside The US And Europe To Include On Your Bucket List This Fall appeared first on Travel My Day Blog.

Visit one (or all) of these 5 dog friendliest countries for pet-loving travelers. Leaving the fur baby at home isn’t always fun. Worrying about them while away, looking for them before remembering they aren’t there to enjoy that special moment with you can ruin an entire trip.

On the other hand, taking your pup along for the trip can cause disruptions in your travel itinerary. Not all countries are pet-friendly, so bringing them can do things like make your room type change because they don’t allow dogs in certain suites. Or, being pressed to suddenly find a restaurant with a patio and a positive attitude toward the pooch.

Places like the Galapagos Islands don’t even allow dogs to visit. Knowing which countries are the dog friendliest countries for pet-loving travelers helps sort vacations out quickly and easily.

United States

It’s obvious that the United States would be at the top of the list. Businesses are known to set out dog bowls with water, offer treats to walkers-by and simply love their fur babies. Dog parks and dog bars are popular in the U.S. Even bringing them home from another country is generally just some paperwork.

Japan

Japan loves its doggies! And yours too. Visit their multitude of pet stores with your fur baby. If you need to work, many of the co-working spaces allow people to bring their pets. Oh, and don’t forget to take them to Machida Grandberry, the dog-friendly Japanese Mall.

Chile

There are dog- friendly beaches, hiking trails and dog- friendly restaurants for the fur babies of Chile. Even dogs that don’t have a friend to live with are well taken care of. In Santiago, the strays frequent public dog houses and are well-fed by locals.

Germany

Germany is one of the dog-friendliest countries in the world. Virtually every business welcomes dogs and provides them with water and treats. Home to the largest animal sanctuary in Europe, you may want to bring one back home with you when visiting.

Canada

Canada has so many wild nature adventures for dogs and their travel companions. The country loves cats too, so feel free to bring either along on an epic road trip in the Rockies. Or, bring your fur baby to board one of the pet-friendly Canadian ferries.

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Tokyo is the most heavily populated megacity in the world with nearly 38.5 million people buzzing about its streets daily.

It is easy to be fascinated with the liveliness of a city like that. There is always action, always subjects to capture, and big city environment to soak in. However, artist and photographer, Robert Götzfried sought to capture the city from a different perspective. And, in order to do so, he had to head to the sleepy suburbs in the middle of the night.

He landed in residential neighborhoods such as Minato City to shoot the quiet side of Tokyo. He wanted to capture scenes of solitude which paint a more peaceful side of the city. What he found was a city that sleeps.

The post While the City Sleeps: 4 A.M. in Tokyo appeared first on Travel My Day Blog.

Best for: viewing the cherry blossom
Cost: from €204 per night via Welcome Beyond

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Japan

Springtime is a beautiful season to visit Japan in because of its blooming cherry blossoms. Though it is a peak time for tourists, you won’t want to miss this natural spectacle. Some cruise lines even offer tours to the best flower festivals, like Princess Cruises’ Spring Floral Festivals, which includes stops in Akita, Aomori, and Toyama.

Australia

The months of March through May are actually Fall in Australia, which is the best time to visit the Great Barrier Reef. Swimming season begins in April with comfortable temperatures and less rain. Cruises that stop at Cairns, Port Douglas, and Airlie Beach allow for visits to the reef. You can also board a Great Barrier Reef-specific cruise to explore that area only.

The Mediterranean

To beat crowds and hot temperatures, cruise the Mediterranean in the shoulder season of March and April. Travelers are promised beautiful weather, lots of sunlight, and fewer children. You can usually find low rates during this time before the weather really starts to warm up beginning in May. Mediterranean cruises can include stops in Spain, Italy, Greece, France, and more.

Holland

There’s no better time than in the Spring to visit the Dutch cities. Board a Holland river cruise to witness fully bloomed tulip fields, windmills, and historic cities. Viking Ring Cruises’ Tulips and Windmills excursion starts and ends in Amsterdam with a couple stops in Belgium in-between and truly looks like the best way to experience the Netherlands this time of year.

The Caribbean

Right after the Spring break crowds die down around mid- to late-April is one of the best times to head to the Caribbean. Luckily, you won’t have to sacrifice good weather as it’s 70 to 80 degrees almost year round. You can also snag some great deals on Caribbean cruises during this time through May.

Alaska

May through early June in Alaska is a little colder but way cheaper for cruises. You’ll have a better chance of seeing migrating animals and wildflowers in bloom around this time. Regardless of when you go, Alaskan cruises are never short of adventure and breathtaking scenery.

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“The views of the mountain are stunning… and the water is so clear you wouldn’t believe it is real.”

Atlantis, The Palm
Dubai, United Arab Emirates

“The word I used over and over again was ‘WOW’ it was that sort of feeling.”

Alila Villas Uluwatu
Bali, Indonesia

“The view here is just outstanding, everything is designed to make the most of the view on offer – it’s breathtaking! ”

Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort
Saariselka, Finland

“We had such a fantastic time and were very lucky to see the Northern lights on our second night.”

Hotel Brunelleschi
Florence, Italy

“We had a direct view to the lit Duomo at night, from our bedroom and private terrace, which was spectacular to say the least.”

explora Patagonia
Torres del Paine National Park, Chile

“We were blown away by the location… If this hotel is not on your bucket list, it certainly should be.”

The Prince Park Tower Tokyo
Tokyo, Japan

“The Superior Double room had an amazing view of the Tokyo Tower, and Mt Fuji in the distance!”

Jade Mountain Resort
St. Lucia, Caribbean

“Unbelievable vacation. This place is heaven on earth… probably the most scenic views you will ever see.”

Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve
Dorado, Puerto Rico

“The hotel rooms are unique and exquisite with their own plunge pools and golden sand beaches in front of the rooms.”

Shangri-La Hotel Paris
Paris, France

“It felt like we could touch the tower and added to our special Paris experience.”

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But for the rest of us, the cooler climate brings its own kind of adventure, and it’s prime time to explore places all around the world that shine their brightest when the mercury drops.

Whether you’re looking to flee the snow or fly headfirst into it, this dazzling planet of ours offers a destination for every kind of cold weather traveller. Find yours here, in the D’Marge guide to the best places to visit in winter.

HALLSTATT, AUSTRIA

Nestled between the edge of Hallstätter See and the Dachstein mountains, Hallstatt is Austria’s oldest and most photogenic village. Dramatic visuals are in ample supply here, courtesy of the towering peaks, the lake’s glassy waters, and the fairytale architecture of the town. The arresting scenery makes for a beautiful visit at any time of year, but it looks especially lovely under a dusting of powder (and isn’t quite so crowded with tourists).

GOBI DESERT, MONGOLIA

It may be a desert, but there’s nothing warm about it in winter. Most travellers choose summer to explore the vast landscapes and nomadic cultures of Mongolia’s Gobi Desert, but more intrepid adventurers brave winter’s below-freezing temperatures to experience a different side of the wild terrain. Come during the Thousand Camel Festival to witness races and polo competitions in which participants compete atop endangered Bactrian camels, as well as performances of traditional Mongolian music and dance.

LAPLAND, FINLAND

One of winter’s most jaw-dropping sights is the Aurora Borealis – aka the Northern Lights. The colourful spectacle can be witnessed in a variety of frigid, northerly locales, but Finland is indisputably one of the finest. Head to Lapland, which is shrouded in almost total darkness during winter, and check into the Kakslauttanen Resort to cross the aurora off your bucket list from the comfort of reindeer-drawn sleigh rides and your own personal glass igloo. Pack layers.

JIGOKUDANI MONKEY PARK, JAPAN

Four words: monkeys in hot springs. Getting to Jigokudani can be a challenge, thanks to the steep cliffs, narrow footpath, and formidably cold forest, but your reward for making the journey is a population of Japanese macaques that love nothing more than bathing in the location’s steaming natural hot springs. If you’re tempted to take a dip yourself, Jigokudani Monkey Park is a short distance from several onsens that accept human bathers.

QUEENSTOWN, NEW ZEALAND

We’ve sung the praises of Queenstown on multiple previous occasions. The New Zealand city has been dubbed ‘the adventure capital of the world’ and wears the badge with great pride. Visitors can hike, bike, bungee jump, zipline, sky dive, rock climb, hang glide, boat on Lake Wakatipu, speed down luge tracks, go off-roading on quad bikes, and more in Queenstown, but come winter, it’s all about the slopes. Skiiers and snowboarders from around the world flock to Treble Cone, Coronet Peak, The Remarkables, and Cardrona for their world-class powder.

COSTA RICA

Winter is dry season in Costa Rica, which means warm weather galore and no torrential downpours to interrupt your sunbathing. The Central American country has coastlines on both the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean, offering more than enough soft sand and inviting water for all visitors. Inland you’ll find a chain of volcanoes and rainforest teeming with exotic wildlife like spider monkeys and quetzal birds.

HARBIN, CHINA

There’s one reason to brave northeastern China’s bitter winters: the Harbin Ice and Snow Festival. The renowned ‘Ice City’ draws visitors from home and abroad each year for the event. Sun Island, one of the festival’s two main exhibition areas, contains enormous ice sculptures carved by ice artists. The second area is Ice and Snow World, a city of full-size ice buildings that are illuminated with colourful lights. Winter activities in the festival include skiing, snow mobile driving, swimming in the Songhua River, and a traditional ice-lantern exhibition.

LES TROIS VALLEÉS, FRANCE

If you’re going to ski, you might as well ski on the world’s finest slopes. France’s Les Trois Valleés – The Three Valleys – is considered by many to be home to those slopes. The region’s acclaimed resorts include Courchevel, Méribel, Les Menuires, St-Martin-de-Belleville, and the legendary Val Thorens. With over 600km of varying pistes and more than 200 lifts, Les Trois Valleés is the largest ski area in the world – and since 1973, you can experience it all with a single ski pass.

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