Japan
Japan is an archipelago of nearly 7000 islands sitting at roughly the same latitude as North America. Its climate is quite similar to that of the Eastern United States, with heavy snow to the north in winter and subtropical climates to the south in places like Okinawa. This means that from skiing to surfing, vacation activity possibilities are endless. Yet most travelers visit to experience the culture. From megacities and whizzing bullet trains to ancient temples and stunningly beautiful islands, Japan is a country of powerful contrasts. Contemporary Japanese culture weaves together ancient tradition, modern architecture and technological marvels in such a way that it becomes one of the key attractions. In Japan, deeply-rooted traditions permeate every facet of life here, captivating visitors from all over the world.
Things to do
- I.M. Pei’s Miho Museum
- Japanese cooking class in a local Tokyo home
- Hakone National Park
- Arashiyama Bamboo Forest
- Bullet Train to Osaka-Osaka Castle
- Traditional Japanese tea ceremony at the Happo-en Garden
Best Resorts
- Gôra Kadan
- Hakone Ginyu
- Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Otemachi
- Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto
- The St. Regis Osaka
Featured Cities
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Affectionately referred to as “MoBay,” Montego Bay lies on the northwest coast of Jamaica and pulses with the energy of authentic Jamaican life.
MoBay is home to some of the island’s most scenic beaches. At the popular Doctor’s Cave Beach you’ll find scores of visitors enjoying the warm waters. Another popular seaside retreat is Cornwall Beach.
Animal lovers can head south to Dolphin Cove in Lucea, Hanover, just 40 minutes outside of MoBay. This marine attraction offers close encounters with dolphins and other aquatic creatures.
History and culture buffs should visit the Bellefield Great House and Gardens, one of the oldest sugar plantations in Jamaica. Steeped in history, mystery and magic, Rose Hall Great House offers a slice of colonial life reminiscent of the 1770s. Legend has it that the ghost of Annie Palmer still haunts the mansion today.
St. James Parish Church was built between 1775 and 1782 in the shape of a Greek cross and is regarded as one of Jamaica’s finest churches.
Nearby Good Hope Estate offers tours of the property that can be thrilling — think river tubing and zip lining — or more relaxed affairs, like a high tea service.
If you are looking for a few souvenirs, you can find interesting gifts at The Shoppes at Rose Hall. Half Moon Shopping Village may also be worth visiting, and the downtown Craft Market houses homemade items like straw hats and bags. The Old Fort Craft Park offers a broad variety of handicrafts hawked by 180 highly competitive vendors. The Harbour Street Craft Market is also known for good deals on Jamaican memorabilia.
More info coming soon…
