Taking in Tokyo

Alright guys, if it wasn't already obvious, this blog post is going to be all about Tokyo, Japan. It's always been a goal of mine to visit Japan (its's pretty high up on my bucket list too!) and I figured that is I'm going to go, I may as well go to the capital city.

Tokyo has a population of 8,949,447 people in comparison to the 1,273,069 people who live in Ireland. It is the largest metropolitan area in the world. As a result, there is little space and the land value is extremely high. Despite all this, I think it is a beautifully intriguing city.

(http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_tallest_structures_in_Tokyo)

Tokyo is such a bustling city that there are an endless amount of things to do and experience whilst there. As with any city, there are an endless supply of things to see and do, and as I'm not tour guide (if it wasn't already very obvious) I'm just going to give you a brief list of the places which I feel are must-see sights! No matter how self-conscious you may feel, just relax and be a tourist for me, okay? good. now here we go:

1. The imperial palace and main residence of the imperial family, even though there's obviously no hope of getting inside, why not walk around the edges of the palace, it's a beautiful building, promise! 

2. The Buddhist temples, for example; Sensoji temple (the oldest temple in the Asakusa district). Buddhism is the main religion in Japan, so it is only fitting that you pay a visit to at least one of the temples throughout the country! 

3. Akihabara – the district for electronic goods. Need I say more? Japan is well known for it's exceptional range of electronics and this is the place you need to go if you love gadgets, or even if you're looking for something a little bit out of the ordinary. 

4. Now this place is an absolute must; Harajuku, this is the center of teenage fashion and cosplay in Japan. Whether you're a fashion guru or an art lover, you need to check this place out! It will either inspire you to change up your look, go out and make your wardrobe more colourful, or just make you feel like a child again, it really is something wonderfully unique.

5. The Tokyo 'skytree'; this is a 634 story high observation desk which allows you to look over the skyline and take in the stunning sight of the astounding city. Unless you suffer from extreme vertigo I would strongly urge you to be brave and try to summon the courage to go as high as the birds, because a sight like the one you will see from the top is one-in-a-million. 

6. Ueno park – city park with multiple museums and a zoo. Who doesn't love a good zoo? This is also a good spot for your daily culture dose. I mean, what sort of blog post would this be if it wasn't diverse enough to include where to find a good museum or two? I've got your back guys. 

7. Last, but by no means least; the Ghibli animation studios! Sure they're no Disney or Pixar, but anime is a huge part of Japanese culture, an escapism of sorts. I'm not big into graphic design etc but 'My Neighbor Totoro' is a truly heart-warming film and I highly recommend watching it! Nothing will ever replace the special space in my heart which is reserved for the works of Disney studios, but Ghibli is undeniably incredible and well worth checking out!

(http://www.splashnology.com/article/studio-ghibli-animated-films-awesome-fan-artworks/4260/)

Okay I do appreciate the fact that most of those place names are quite difficult to pronounce if you don't speak Japanese but at least you'll have fun trying to say them ;)

Now, if those must-see sights didn't do it for you, I'm going to give you even more options but telling you some of the things which I feel are must-do activities! I'm loading this blog post with fun ideas for you guys:

1. Go and sing at one of the many karaoke bars. 

2. Take a trip to go and see Mt Fuji, Lake Ashi and Bullet Train day trip from Tokyo. Almost ever tour guide will take you there! 

3. Go and see the Tokyo Tower.

4. Attend a traditional Tea Ceremony.

(credits to blackrainbow-letslearnjapanaese.blospot.com)

5. Go on the Sumida River Cruise day tour. 

6. Go to the Nikko National Park. 

7. Get up early and go on the Sushi making and tsukiji fish market morning tour. 

8. Go to both a bunraku and kabuki. These are both traditional Japanese performances and are absolutely exquisite. 

9. Visit the hot-springs in Atami and have a relaxing spa day.

It's not hard to find something to do and I'm not going to go into any detail on those suggestions as I feel as though they are all rather self-explanatory. Just don't feel that because it's such a culture that there's nothing fun for you to do.

Let me know if you do go to Japan or even if you've been there or know if you know someone who has been there. Talk soon.

Sally x

Keeping the Empire State in Mind

Have you ever wanted to really sink your teeth into the Big Apple? I know I have! New York City is one of the most fascinating cities in the world and it is filled with countless surprises on every street corner.



To me, New York is one of those cities that no matter how long you spend there, you'll never fully learn the city's secrets. Keeping this in mind, I'm going to stick with a few basic things that every tourist should do in New York because it's sadly just not possible to do everything in one lifetime!

1. Central Park
If you've ever watched a movie or TV show based in New York then you'll definitely have heard of Central Park. It's exactly what it says on the tin; it is a gigantic park in the middle of the city. It covers 843 acres! It would take forever and a day to walk around so I would suggest going all around it by bicycle, there are even bike tours around the park if riding solo isn't your thing. Without a doubt you will hear guitar music at some point, which if you follow it will lead you to the Imagine Mosaic monument to John Lennon, who was a New Yorker. Bring a picnic and find yourself a spot of grass to sit down on and you'll never want to leave, it's such a beautiful park - just be careful not to get lost!

  (credits to centralpark.com for this picture)

2. Statue of Liberty
This one is a bit of an icon, I reckon. Everyone, including your mum's, sister's goldfish has heard about the monumental statue which can be seen from the city itself, despite it being out on Ellis Island. The only was to get out to it is by ferry but to be frank, it costs a fortune and it's always packed with people, it's a bit like being in a can of sardines. So to save yourself a lot of money, time and hassle, just hop on the Statan Island ferry. It goes right past the Statue of Liberty slow enough for you to take an abundance of photos, and best of all; it's free! It's a bit of a no-brainer if you ask me? Sure at least you haven't wasted any money if you don't enjoy it.

3. The Empire State Building
Let's face it, if we're going to go to New York, we're going to go to the tourist spots, sure they're the ones we can't go without seeing, and the Empire State Building is right up there too. The view from the 86th floor outdoor area is incredible. It's always thronged with people though so unless you want to fork out $45 for an express pass, you'll be queuing up with everyone else. If you really want to see the city though, for an extra $15 you can go up to the observation deck on the 102nd floor. The view from up there will leave you mind blow, the city will look so vast and spectacular that you'll never want to come down. 

4. Broadway
Ok, it's confession time; I am a huge theater addict. I love going to shows and I always catch myself singing and dancing along in my seat, so this blog post would be 100% impersonal if I don't at least mention a Broadway musical. For any theater performer, you know you've made it in your career if you make it to Broadway. I have been to countless shows over the years but without a moments hesitation,the one I would have to recommend you go to see is WICKED. It's the tale of how to Wicked Witch of the West, from The Wizard of Oz, became wicked. It's a breathtaking show and I guarantee you'll wish you were up on stage 'defying gravity' with Elphaba. If that doesn't sound like your sort of thing then, even though it's your immense loss, there are loads more shows to go to, and if I had my way; I'd go to them all!

5. Times Square
Times Square is one of those places where I can be completely genuine in saying; it has it all. From shopping to dining, accommodation to Broadway, I can guarantee you that there is no shortage of things for you to do, at any time of the day. Although, I would recommend going to the M&M's factory, sometimes as you're leaving they'll take a picture of you and it'll appear on one of the big light-up billboards outside of the shop. That's right, your face on a billboard in Times Square. What could be better? Perhaps 'Music Row' (48th Street) as the locals call it. What can I say? It's a center for music community in NYC and has been ever since the 1930's. There are countless food/makeup/fashion/music stores dotted around Time's Square, not to mention all the shows that are one. So in all fairness, what more could you ask for?

(credits to travelbrochures.org for this awesome picture!)

6. Ground Zero
The iconic site of the Twin Towers has been turned into a memorial and museum to commemorate those who lost their lives in the bombings of the World Trade Center back on September 11, 2001. The museum is located beneath the memorial park. The museum will display things such as artifacts from the World Trade Center and the 9/11 attacks. There will also be Interactive Exhibitions, Contemplative Areas and programs that will tell individual stories about the survivors experiences and eyewitness accounts. 

7. Grand Central Terminal
Yes, it is possible to tour a 100 year-old train depot and actually enjoy it! Don't believe me? Well every year thousands of people pass through Grand Central Terminal (not 'Station'). It's not just a busy train terminal, the place is also filled with shops and restaurants, you could pass hours there easily. Go to the Whispering Gallery to tell someone a secret; all you have to do is whisper into the wall at one end of the gallery and you'll be heard at the other end. The wonders of architecture, eh? And if it's sights you're looking for, just tilt your head backwards and stare at the ceiling, it'll blow your mind.

(credits to 

 http://content.time.com/time/travel/cityguide/article/0,31489,1843404_1843415_1845630,00.html for this photo)

8. Shake Shack
For some of the best milkshake's you'll ever have (I promise) you simply must go to Shake Shack. What started out as a roadside burger stand is now a famous milkshake shop which also sells some pretty great burgers too! I would recommend going here for a meal if you can, get an oreo milkshake for me? 

9. Bowery Ballroom
It's considered to be one of the best music spots in all of New York, need I say more? If you're a music lover then a trip to NYC isn't complete unless you've stopped off here, I mean it. It's a two-story venue and the acts are mainly up-and-coming indie/rock artists. All original, all live, all authentic. Talent. There's even a bar downstairs so you could really make a night out of it if you wanted to. 

New York is one of those cities where I've always dreamed of living and having a career but to be honest I think I'd become so distracted by all that the city has to offer that I'd completely forget to do any work, I'd go exploring every day. So go oiut and explore NYC, I dare you.

Sally x

The City of Light

If there are two things to visit in Paris they are the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre Museum. If you really want to make a day of it, however, you should visit the Louvre and get your culture dose in the morning and head off to the Eiffle Tower in the evening, have dinner in the restaurant, 58 Eiffle Tower, on the first floor and then head off to see a Moulin Rouge show afterwards. After all, what girl doesn't want to be wined and dined in one of the worlds most romantic venues.

                     (credits to anderson-tours.co.uk for this beautiful picture!)

During the day time, why not walk throught the crowded streets of Paris, stop off for a coffee and croissant at one of the many little cafes and then make your way down to the Louvre museum. Even if you don't have an artistic flair it is definitey worth your while to pay it a visit! Now I'm not art fanatic but if it were me, I'd recommend taking a look at the Mona Lisa and some of the paintings by Vermeer, they're really something special to look at! I was in Paris over the summer and even though I wasn't fortunate to make it into the Louvre I would definitely recommend taking a walk through the beautiful gardens, sit down by the insanely big pond and maybe feed the ducks. One things that struck me was the amount of runners who went through the gardens and up towards the Champs-Elysees. Why not join them if you're the athletic type! Now that would be a story to tell, running through the streets of one of the most picturesque cities in the world. You don't need to be an artist to appreciate the masterpieces that lie in the Louvre museum but you'll be missing out on something special if you don't go in for a quick browse. 

There’s so much to see at the Eiffel Tower! There are so many things to see, both fun and romantic. And because the tower is open until 11 o'clock, you don't have to worry about rushing to and fro throughout the day, you can take everything into your own stride and just relax. 

It may be quite a workout but personally, I think that the best way to go up the Eiffel Tower is by foot. It will give you your daily dose of cardio too as there are over 700 steps up to the 2nd floor! From the 2nd floor you can get a lift all the way up to the top floor of the tower where, if you're very lucky, you could enjoy a nice glass of champagne from the champagne bar, fancy or what? 

After all the views have taken your breath away and you have filled your camera's entire memory card with photos, head back down to the 1st floor to learn about the tower's 120 years of history through photos, drawings, engravings and even a short movie! 

Don't worry about going hungry, 58 restaurant on the 1st floor is open all day with both adult's and children's menus. Thank me later.

Now I'm no tour guide so I would recommend heading over to http://www.tour-eiffel.fr/en/exploring-the-eiffel-tower/not-to-be-missed.html to find out everything you'll need to know!

Au revoir,

Sally x

Getting a Look at London

Out of all the major cities in the world, I find London to be one of the most captivating by far. It's just such a quirky, vibrant city, overflowing with culture and fashion. Whether you're a hardcore shopper, a family on an Easter break, a loved-up couple on a weekend get-away, an art lover or a complete theater buff, there is plenty for you to do and see. Be sure not to waste a single minute of it!

Let's start with a classic; Camden Town. Camden is a part of London city which has been taken over by an enthralling maze of markets, both outdoor and indoor. It's revered by locals as one of London's best kept secrets, unlike Oxford Street which is always thronged with tourists. Caamden is a place to go if you are artsy or creative, or are just on the look out for something a little bit different. It isn't just filled with market stalls, there are many craft markets, clubs, pubs and restaurants. There is always something going on and the entertainment is non-stop! Camden Lock is the original market in Camden Town; some consider it the inspiration behind Camden Market. It's one of London's most intriguing spots for a bit of people-watching.

Of course, no visit to London is complete unless you act like a complete tourist and a visit to the Tower of London is perfect for this. The royal family used to live there and it played host to countless executions when the Tudors ruled England. It is guarded by the beefeaters who are always dressed in red and black. A more unusual form of defence is the ravens who have set up camp on Tower Green. Local superstition says that if the ravens are ever to leave the tower that the monarchy in place will collapse. Even though the Royal Family don't currently live there, the Tower of London is home to the crown jewels.

So, next time your're looking for a place to go for a get-away, even if you don't know what you want to do, why not give London a try? Goodness knows I want to go there soon!

Sally x

There's No Place Like Home

It doesn't matter where you live or what you like to do with your spare time, there's always something to do at home which will catch your eye. For me, it's music festivals. 

Oxegen is regarded as one of the world's best music festivals. It takes place every year in Punchestown, Naas. People travel from all over the world to see the headlining acts. From Kings of Leon to Calvin Harris, The Who to Rizzle Kicks, artists are travelling from every corner of the globe to entertain those lucky few who manage to get their hands on the gold-dust tickets. If, like me, you are Irish, then you don't have far to travel for a weekend of crazy fun. I mean, let's face it, Ireland isn't a huge island after all. Just grab your friends, pack your wellies and off you go!

If you aren't Irish though, don't feel as though you're missing out! A majority of the people visiting the festival decide to camp there, just bring along a tent and you're set. If you prefer the commodities of a hotel but don't want to miss out on the action then why not try 'glam-ping'; a new fad which is a more luxurious form of camping.

Despite Ireland's (quite accurate) reputation for being rainy and mucky, hundreds of people, young and old alike, brave the elements to kick back and have a weekend they won't forget! Besides, there's no age limit on fun and music! (but there is an age restriction of 18+) 

(credits to oxegen.ie for this snapshot)

Last year over 50,000 people visited Oxegen music festival and, I can only imagine, had an experience which they will never forget! My hope is that one day, I will get to join them and kick back and have fun without leaving the country.

Sally x

Just a quick "Hello"...

Hi there, I guess the only thing I can say here is hi. This blog is basically going to be filled with all the places I want to go to and things I want to visit when I get to travel the world.  I love to travel and have been fortunate enough to visit many amazing places, so hopefully you'll enjoy my plans and adventures just as much as I will.

Sally x