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Kyoto

 Kyoto is my favorite city in the world and words cannot describe the beauty that exist in Kyoto.   That's why it's taken me so long to write this blog about this city.  To create the top 10 list is not easy as the city is just so dynamic and although the heritage sites have not changed, the number of restaurants certainly has.  I will keep making updates to the restaurant list but here's a list to start. Top Sites (in no particular order): - Kiyomizu temple - Fushimi-inari - Uji - Kinkaku-ji  - Arashiyama (Bamboo Forest and Monkey Park) - Gion district (including Yasaka Shrine) - Nijo Castle - Nishiki Market If you want to day trips outside of Kyoto there are several cities fairly close including Osaka, Kobe, Arima (for onsen), and Lake Biwa (for onsen). Top Restaurants (in no particular order): - Gion Sushi Nakamura: omakase counter seating only - Jiki Miyazawa: 1 star Michelin by a young and innovative chef utilizing vintage ceramics - Kikunoi Roan: 2 st...
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Tokyo - Update

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Korea - Seoul, Gwangju and Busan

As a family we traveled from Taipei to Seoul in the summer of 2023.   We stayed in Seoul for a few days before taking the train to Gwangju and Busan for 3 days and back to Seoul for two nights.   It was a wonderful exploring the landmarks with girls and experienced the food, shopping, and culture.  A few apps you may need to download: Naver for map, KakaoTalk for corresponding/communication, KakaoTaxi for taxi reservation. Stay: Seoul: Josun Palace, Gangnam.   If we were to choose again, I would preferred to stay near Myeong-dong instead of Gangnam because Myeong-dong is more central.  For us to head to the landmarks, we had to walk 10 minutes to the train station and at least 45 minutes on the train.  Sometimes it was faster and more cost effective to take the taxi instead of the train.   The hotel itself is very high end with wonderful breakfast buffet, indoor pool, and amenities.   Very high-end Busan: Park Hyatt Haeund...
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Taiwan

This post is a combination of the Kuang family trip back in Spring Break 2017 and Toguchi family trip in Summer 2023.  We had an excellent local driver for both trip who took us on a 1 day trip outside of Taipei.  Highly recommended as a day trip for Very Waterfall, Juifen (Spirited Away inspired), and Zhifen (lanterns).   Tainan Night Market is the best - lots of games and food was delicious Scallion pancake Taichung Sun Moon Lake  Night Market Taipei Sights: - Taipei 101 - Taipei Zoo - Maokong Gondola (take it from the Taipei Zoo) and head up to Maokong for local tea and delicacies Activities: - Shrimp fishing - Night market games - Hair spa Restaurant:  - Din Tai Fung: original is close to Taipei 101 which has a super long wait or the one in Taipei 101 - Raohe Night Market: it's my favorite night market in Taipei with a mixture of local delicacies and fun games for the kids
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Napa Valley

 We started to explore and appreciate wine when we moved to the Bay Area 16+ years ago after living in NYC and Tokyo.   Napa Valley at that time was still relatively small, unknown with no need for reservations and less than $25 tastings or even better, free tastings.   We still remember when we went to Trefethen and Alpha Omega when there were no tasting rooms and only the barrel room where you can taste for free.   Those days are long gone but there are still some areas in wine country such as Russian River Valley and Andersen Valley where it's not as touristy.   The following is a list of wineries that we have grown to love over the years and by no means complete.   I'll continue to update this list as we continue to explore new wines! Champagne - Schraemsburg: hidden in Calistoga, this is a bit far to get to but when we did a full tour for our anniversary a few years ago, I simply fell in love.   The sweet Cremant is s...
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Dubai, UAE

 I had a pleasure of traveling to Dubai, UAE for work in May 2022.   The flight time alone was 15+ hours so I took the opportunity (much thanks to Roger) to travel there early so that I can explore the city the weekend before my work events.   I flew Emirates for the first time and boy was it luxurious!  The big difference is the luxury chauffeur pickup and drop-off, the spacious business case pods, Bulgari travel bag, lounge with direct access to gate, and the 'bar' on the plane.   I would fly Emirates again in a heartbeat! So now to the exploration portion.   Dubai is a very cosmopolitan financial hub of UAE.  The city is still under development as there are numerous high-rises and construction cranes on every block.   It's well known for Dubai Mall (the largest mall in the world), Burj Kalifa (the tallest building in the world) and the Palm (self made island worth hundreds of million for the wealthy and fabulous). ...
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Amsterdam, Netherlands

 My first trip to Amsterdam was well over 15 years ago when I went to Europe with a few sorority sisters.  I now go for work and it's still one of my favorite city to explore because it's walkable with scenic canals.   Here's some great eats I've explored along the way: - The Seafood Bar :  a few franchise across the city, this is my go-to for both cold and grilled seafood platter displayed elegantly in platters.  Prices are quite reasonable and won't break the bank even if you don't share. - Restaurant Den Burgh : close to the Amsterdam airport, this modern restaurant on farm to table includes amazing service, excellent wine list, and beautifully crafted food. - Wilde Zwijnen : I came across this gem while researching for a reasonably priced Michelin-starred restaurant to take my boss and new hire.  Located in a residential neighborhood in Amsterdam, this prix fixe restaurant was vibrant with rustic charm and modern take on flavor profile.  Servi...
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