Smart Packing for Study Abroad and Long-Term Travel: Tips for Comfort, Style, and Saving Space

Embarking on a study abroad program or gearing up for a long-term trip abroad can fuel a lot of excitement – and a ton of anxiety around perfecting the packing process. Our in-depth guide, though tailored towards extended overseas stays, delivers universally applicable tips to ensure your travel experience is as smooth and hassle-free as possible. From prioritizing comfort over style, to the art of layering and even strategies for efficient laundry planning, let’s dive into these travel-tested, tried-and-true packing tips! Continue reading

Embracing Inemuri: Navigating The Unspoken Rules of Sleeping At Work In Japan

Catching Z’s in the middle of a workday or while students haul over books isn’t just a sneaky act in Japan—it’s culturally recognized as ‘inemuri’ (居眠り). This phenomenon isn’t just about taking a quick snooze; it’s a subtle badge of honor that speaks to Japan’s hardworking spirit. Continue reading

Insider’s Guide to Japan: Navigating Culture, Fashion, and Essentials for Expats and Students

Thinking about jet-setting to Japan or enrolling in a university program there? If you have your plane tickets or a university acceptance in hand—fantastic! Or, if you’re venturing into the academic world by directly applying to a Japanese university, that’s equally thrilling!

Your experience in Japan promises to be nothing short of amazing.

Still, it’s key to acknowledge that the real Japan might differ from Western portrayals. Famous for its pioneering technology, iconic anime and manga, exquisite sushi, and innovative fashion, Japan has a lot to offer. But, just like any country, there’s more than what meets the eye.

Here’s a heads-up with some insights you should know to get the most out of your Japanese journey.

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Know Your Travel ABCs

For 19 out of my 20 years, I’ve been hopping on planes and racking up air miles on international trips. The result? A solid array of tips and life hacks I swear by while on the road. These bits of wisdom have traveled with me from Japan, where I’m currently based, to every other continent I’ve set foot on.

Whether you’re studying in a foreign land or have adopted another country as your home, these pointers could help you out as you soak in new experiences and cultures. Consider this wisdom as my offering to enhance your exploration.

Ready to go? Here’s my A-Z list of tested travel hacks!

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10 Essential Chopstick Etiquette Tips for Dining in Japan: Navigate the Cultural Maze with Confidence

Japanese folks aren’t kidding when it comes to chopstick manners! Dining with Japanese? They’re likely to be understanding if you’re not savvy with all chopstick protocols. But knowing even a bit about local etiquette can help make a good impression, earn respect, and promote positive interaction.

Even though completely mastering chopstick rules may seem tough, embracing these simple guidelines takes you closer to seamless chopstick politeness:

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