What it’s like to travel internationally now?
While some business people and college students are able to travel to Japan, unfortunately, the country is still not open to international tourism. Japan is being very cautious—some say too cautious, but it’s hard for outsiders to make that call. When things do open...
When will tourists be allowed back in Japan?
Many of us who love Japan or would love to go to Japan have been wondering when will tourists be allowed back? Just to clarify the current situation, unlike many European countries, Japan has barred non-citizens from visiting their country, with few exceptions....
What happens when you launch a travel book at the start of the pandemic?
Cutting to the chase, it’s not recommended. From book concept-to-publication, More Japan for Less took around three years to become a reality. The launch was in February of 2020, just as the COVID-19 fires were starting to take hold. While Leslee (my editor...
A personal perspective on COVID-19 in Japan and the US.
Originally written on May 19, 2020 If you’ve read only the news headlines, you may very well have the idea that the pandemic has hit Japan much harder than the US. After all, Japan is closer to China and; early on in the crisis, had the Diamond Princes cruise ship...
Author’s Commentary
This book was written because Leslee and I share an enjoyment of the kind of travel that travel writer extraordinaire and television personality Rick Steves has trumpeted. That is, be willing to learn in advance about the places you plan to visit, embrace the culture...