Holiday to Ito

In October, we took a MUCH NEEDED week-long break in Ito. Ito is an area of Japan I have had on my bucket list for some time to visit. It’s known for its dramatic coastlines and abundant nature. Oh, and the dormant volcano that looks like a mini Mount Fuji. Alas, I need to get…

The Fam Visit Japan

From February 14th to the 20th my sister, Katie,  her husband, Steve, and their two little angels, Edward and Evelyn came to see us in Tokyo. We had a jam-packed few days showing of the best of Tokyo, and we become something of experts in “quick, where is the nearest play park, the kids need…

Golden Week 2018 Photo Gallery

The Golden Week of 2018, so called because of several well-placed bank holidays in Japan, we chose to complete a mini tour of Kyushu island. The journey took us to one of the most active volcanoes in Japan, Mount Aso, and then down to the so-called sunniest city in Japan, Miyazaki. Here are a few…

Shrooms and Typhoons: “The Earth without art is just Eh”

In September, we were lucky enough to visit Naoshima Island, Japan’s infamous ‘Art Island’. The island is home to an extensive collection of artwork owned by the Benesse Group. The collection includes six of Monet’s ‘Water Lilies’, David Hockney pieces, striking architecture from Tadao Ando, and unique mushroom sculptures from Yamoi Kusama. The long weekend…

It’s a Twenty Minute Drive Away

For Golden Week this May we spent our time camping on the very beautiful Iki island, Nagasaki prefecture. Golden Week really is golden. The name was coined by the Japanese film industry for the high ticket sales, and the Golden Week consists of four bank holidays. Combine this with a little annual leave and you…

Brain Ache

Today I have brain ache, again! This is an increasing occurrence in my life! Part of it is the environment and part is the pressure I put on myself. This pressure Dan and I then around to each other like a hot potato! The environment – for me, I am surrounded by sick kids again…

Putting the Stut into Stuttgart…

What more could a husband wish for than a wife with cheap airfare tickets and Pilsner on her mind? That is exactly what Dan got this Christmas, with a long weekend away in Stuttgart at the end of January. With visits to the Mercedes Museum, the Zoo and many German bars and eateries, we merrily…