5 things I learned in five days in Japan

I write this article from Kyoto, where I arrived yesterday from Tokyo. It goes without saying that I am traveling to Japan. It is the first time I visit this country, and as you can imagine, I think a real daring attempt to summarize in 'only 5' things I've learned in the days that I've been here, since there are many more, but still affected by the jet lag, I do titanic effort to summarize.

1. Orientate in Japan: OK, I'm biased. My fatal sense of direction makes it able to lose even in my own home (and do not live in Buckingham Palace), but is that what Japan or Tokyo, that was my first city to visit, has It has been too severe test. Test, of course, I failed. First, language, obviously everything is in Japanese, and although more and more English translations, its very complete metro network with impossible names and 200 outputs for each station find it does not help and that is when you walk into a space-time loop insurmountable. Orientate in Tokyo is really difficult, so a trick, take the routes stored in Google Maps on your smartphone.

2. They do not speak English, a country able to be understood by a calligraphy as beautiful as impossible not speak English. Let us not worth much more than enough, but at least we have spent years trying with varying degrees of success. While in the end manage to make you understand-and this really I have no idea how to explain but it is up tierno-, I only found people who speak English in hotels and a restaurant where the speaker the eye is the chef who is cooking you, because here the chefs cook in front of you and only for you. What did you think?

3. It is not an expensive country: in fact, it is not expensive. Speaking of hospitality perhaps the price to skyrocket a bit more (a 4-star Tokyo will not fall from 160 € / night, such as the Park Hotel, one of two where I was staying), but within lunch or dinner, for example, can be better than good dinner for € 20 per person (sushi, ramen, gyoza, etc.). Get ready to burn Visa (Visa what is said and now you will see why) in both beauty products (which vice with creams, masks, makeup and other) and clothing (in Uniqlo can buy 100% cashmere sweaters 20 €. Little word).
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4. Best Cash: Japan, technological mecca, is a country that prefers to pay cash rather than by credit card, but then be able to open a hotel staffed by robots. In hotels and fancy restaurants like Kyubei wonderful restaurant (tasting menu from 100 € without drinks) will have no problem, but to get around the city (including a big city like Tokyo), better bring cash because on especially in the restaurants on the street do not allow debit cards. Nor, and this is something that surprised me just landed at the airport ticket office to buy train tickets to the city center.

Turkish Airlines: flies well in class 'business'

Less than a month ago I returned from Japan. It was, quite intense but very short trip, visiting the best of Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka and I am preparing a post with directions that I liked. But before that, and because of the interest raised by some publications in my social networks, I would like to tell you about my experience in a long-haul flight of Turkish Airlines flying into your busines s class. Thank airline to test the upgrade enjoy and fall in love with its luxurious proposal when flying (although tiny task now when you have to return to the harsh reality of the economy class on long-haul flights).

I flew on routes two different models of aircraft, an Airbus A321 in flight Barcelona-Istanbul and A330 sections in Istanbul-Tokyo, Osaka and Istanbul surprisingly, also in Istanbul-Barcelona. If you have flown with this airline, you know that one of its strengths is its catering, Turkish DO & CO, and this is extended to the economy class, which have also flown in it and we must recognize that eat well.

I love to be greeted with fresh orange juice and some Turkish specialties as pica pica, and yes, this also happens in both classes. And I love it even more, the figure of the chef on board (its renowned 'Flying Chef') offered in the business; a completely uniformed notes you cook the dishes you want lunch or dinner-and the kind of cooking-as the gastronomic for that flight. It's like having dinner at a nice restaurant on the ground, but at 30,000 feet (and to put you "candles" that accompany the menu). A success in the differentiation strategy of the airline.

Here some pictures of my experience. Curious configuration of the A330 business because despite being the same model airplane, I tried three different. The best? The first Istanbul-Tokyo, which was not the most modern, but the one that gave me feeling of space. For most passengers more often you like the design of the third (Istanbul-Barcelona), because it provides more sense of privacy and is like a small room -saving the distance, of course. To highlight the excellent service (which costs little smile and how much is appreciated) and the cuisine. The Turks love the cheese and serve you a selection at every meal, though it be in heaven! Also their selection of wines and champagne, of course, and extensive offer in-flight entertainment, in a 12-hour flight is appreciated, but honestly, with a folding bed 180 saw few movies. Still, everything is always great toquetearlo.

On the amenities in the first leg of the vanity was Ferrari (mono, but very masculine) with all kinds of products, from the usual as comb or toothbrush to perfume, towels, socks, mask ... And around the corner, one of Cerruti, more petite and feminine.

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Travel to Rio de Janeiro: Life is samba!

A couple of weeks ago I returned to Rio de Janeiro. It was one of the cities I most wanted to meet for some time and my first contact was with Brazil. Although my week-long stay, it is possible to visit the 'Cidade Maravilhosa' in fewer days, intense, though. Interestingly, and contrary to what happens with other cities of its kind in Rio is not much to see, lots to enjoy, but it is not a city where you calendar day passes to and fro. And this sometimes is appreciated, right?
Well, I'm here, what to visit in Rio de Janeiro?

Among the essential Rio de Janeiro are, of course, the Christ of Corcovado and Sugar Loaf, two of the most universal symbols cariocas. My advice is to take advantage of the first sunny day you have to visit both, because even in Rio usually good weather, usually covered by a fog or cloud tops you spoiled best of all, the breathtaking views from the heights .

Access both, despite being in opposite directions, it can not be easier; take a taxi to your destination (always one of the yellow, are everywhere, are very inexpensive and completely safe). The entrance to Sugarloaf costs about 17 € and promotion is divided into two sections unsuitable for people with heart or vertigo, like me, I had to make great efforts to keep his eyes open. In the first level you have several restaurants, shops, many tourists and stunning views of the city, still better when second aboard the cable car you get to the top. Really impressive. In the case of the famous Christ the Redeemer, the best option is to board the train, but there are several bus transfer in offering their services at the railway station because often huge queues are organized and there is a long wait.

Admission costs about 12 €, including train, a journey of about 20 minutes. The greatest symbol of the city shines an impressive 30 meters high and proud to be the largest art deco statue in the world -and famosa-. Before downloading, make a stopover at the coffee shop you'll find next to the stairs and take air sipping one of the best mango juice find in Rio de Janeiro.

A look great guy, what would become of Rio de Janeiro without its extraordinary beaches?

Copacabana, Ipanema and Leblon are the three most representative beaches of Rio to be the first one -and you will forgive me for topicazo- which I liked. Despite the eternal struggle between them on which is which is more fashionable, I love myself completely crescent of Copacabana and it was a real pleasure to walk its more than 4 kilometer walk along the shore (not without making a stop along the way to enjoy a caipirinha in any of the kittens you find along the beach while the first notes sound of bossa nova).

If you are thinking of traveling to Rio de Janeiro and have a guide in your hands, you will see that one of the essential places to visit is recommended fabulous Botanical Garden. Of course it is, but without any intention of desmerecerlo, I am left with the Paque Lage, smaller, equally exotic and attention, over coffee in his perfect interior for a weekend brunch. In addition, there is usually always contemporary art exhibitions in its main building. And they have wifi, which is welcome (it's the picture you can see above on the left)

To cure jet lag where to stay in Rio de Janeiro?

Rio de Janeiro can boast of having an excellent hotel infrastructure. Many of the largest chains in the world are here, usually in huge buildings that dominate the first line of beaches like Copacabana or Ipanema. If you want something smaller, more personalized that allows you to measure the pulse of the city, do as I do and committed to a boutique hotel. In my case I visited two of the most important, the first by new, Casa Mosquito, and the second by the reputation that precedes him, Mama Ruisa. Both, with many similarities and many differences, they loved. Casa Mosquito I prefer its central location, personalized service and unbeatable breakfast that made me start the day clad in a "vibes" that was not normal. Also, the rooftop pool is one of the most beautiful and sexy city. And only 9 rooms!

Mama Ruisa responds to a style between kitsch and naive, it's like sleeping in a house that could well be-and has been-magazine cover. Of those that look and sigh in plan, but these houses really exist? It has only 8 rooms and their breakfasts may not be as inspiring as those of Casa Mosquito, but its location in the bohemian neighborhood of Santa Teresa, is perfect to visit the less commercial side (and a bit dangerous) in Rio de Janeiro . Mama Ruisa From the hotel you can go walking, for example, to the famous Escadaria Selarón, the stairs that the Chilean artist Jorge Selarón dressed in colorful mosaics and whose visit should not be missed in Rio de Janeiro.

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The pace in the veins, what is the best place to hear samba?

To listen, dance and above all to have fun, go to Carioca da Gema, local most mythical city. They have an interesting musical program and concerts here do not listen, feel and dance and not be hard on the track will grip any Brazilian to teach four-step dance. Let yourself go, the atmosphere is great in this place where they dance to the waiters while serving the delicious caipirinhas. And if someone recommends Rio Scenarium well, but Carioca da Gema is much more authentic and more beautiful, and true New Yorker air oozing with exposed brick walls (see video below).

Where to travel in 2016?

I dusted my oracle traveler to investigate what these hot destinations where travel in 2016 will be. If we have been clear in 2015 that countries like Japan or Singapore, cities like Rio de Janeiro or restaurants like Can Roca (culinary tourism has stopped be a tendency to become a reality, and if not they should ask our French friends) are on the crest of the wave, in this year in which we move appears to remain strong destinations you add some as those to whom I will travel shortly.

Vil Uyana resort in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka: I look forward to close the suitcase I'll take the next destination Colombo December 31 aboard a Turkish Airlines plane. This is the first time I visit this country in the tourist awakening after 26 years of civil war that finally ended in 2009, after recovering from the devastating damage that caused the 2004 tsunami in the country. Today the former Ceylon is, for its cultural life, natural, shopping, dining and infinite smile of its people one of the hot destinations to travel in 2016 where staying in hotels like the Grand Vil Uyana and taking rich tea (http : //www.jetwinghotels.com/jetwingviluyana/).

Central Park from the Mandarin Oriental New York

New York: yes, once more and all that are needed because there are few, very few best plans a trip to New York. What's happening in the Big Apple? rather, what is not cooked, because Manhattan is a full hive of trends where there is always something new. I want to find new restaurants, visiting new hotels and enjoy a good brunch at Prune and eat, at least one, an authentic Cuban sandwich at Cafe Havana. New York always yes.

Hotel Home, your home in Palermo (Buenos Aires)

Argentina: one of the destinations where most wanted to travel, but for one reason or another, never getting organized. So 2016 will be the year that finally! I will visit Argentina. My idea is to know the basics because I do not count on too many days to discover the country in depth. For now I focus on visiting the really cute boutique hotels in Buenos Aires and make a million photos to the Perito Moreno glacier. Also, my friend Marita (marita_palma) accompanied me on this adventure. You can not ask for more.

The beauty of the Philippines in and out of the sea

Philippines: one of the destinations in which we talk more in 2015 is undoubtedly one of the top 2016. This year will be definitely the year of the Philippines, and also the year when I visit this destination. Spectacular beaches, crowded locations not (yet) and, one of my passions, offering a splendid complete a seemingly perfect diving destination.

The PIG near Bath, the latest addition to the family hotel

English countryside: far from light, noise, people, aircraft or any other factor that may affect our tranquility, the English countryside stands as a perfect destination to unwind, eat well (there is life beyond the fish and chips, I promise) and sit and read comfortably in front of a fireplace. Well know in hotels as offered THE PIG (https://www.thepighotel.com/), who praise for its commitment to offer a stay where no one needs to leave the hotel to eat well, have fun and relax in the middle of an idyllic setting. And yes, here too we travel.

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Weekend in Paris: oh la la

There are never enough to travel to Paris, the city of love, light, fashion, macaroons and champagne toast. New hotels, museums, trends and, of course, classics, such as a hearty 'petit dejeuner' overlooking the Eiffel Tower. Oh la la, Paris.

Paris is always a matter of attitude. To love, to happiness, to optimism, to life. Few cities can boast symbolize many cities in one and so a trip to the capital of France is always a new experience for one simple reason, it is possible to find as many cities as attitudes towards life are taken. A weekend in Paris is quite enough, there are three intense days in which to visit some of the most legendary hotels, enjoy a good espresso in a cafe in the Marais district, shopping for so elegant streets like Saint Honore or visit one of the newest temples of art, culture and design, the Museum of the Louis Vuitton Foundation. "If one of them dies, 'said the husband to the wife I'll move to Paris." Word of Sigmund Freud.

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Whether it is a first contact with the city or not, no one should miss such important places like the Arc de Triomphe which was built by Napoleon, holds the title of being the largest triumphal arch in the world. The Sacré-Coeur, one of my fetish places in Paris, an almost mystical corner from which to see the city at your feet. And from one side to another of the city we continue our journey to the Centre Georges Pompidou, a daring art center that is also a fictitious entry door of the Marais, my favorite. A visit to the Pompidou is absolutely required, as it is a dinner or cocktail at Georges restaurant, located on the roof of the imposing building built it seems backwards. Georges from some of the best views of the city to the stunning Eiffel Tower, the most recognized monument throughout France are obtained. But before visiting 'the old lady', it is unacceptable to make a stop on the way to walk, get lost and to meet again in the neighborhood of Le Marais.

And although the magic of Le Marais can not be bought, yes you can enjoy. My two favorite places all have but etched in my roadmap; one of them is Les Philosophes, at 28 rue Vieille du Temple, perfect to enjoy a morning espresso rich in literary and decadent atmosphere. The second serves to sample the rich French cuisine, and nothing better to do at Au Petit Fer à Cheval. It's small, noisy and rather uncomfortable, but no matter, it's one of my places 'foodies' favorite. It was inaugurated in the early twentieth century, look at the spectacular horseshoe shaped bar and serve the best filet mignon I've ever had. Le Marais, along with key retailers such as Diptyque (where everyone should take home any of his classic candles, my favorite is the Baies), you can also find brands such as Maje and Sandro, whose places are all the rage. Mixed among the tremendous trends amalgam of Le Marais, the Jewish beat excels with its shops and street food rich kosher restaurants such as falafel. An interesting stop is the Museum of Jewish Art and History, at 71 rue du Temple.