Pacific Tips: 2024 May 31: Getting Around Kyoto, Foot Hammocks, Chile 🇨🇱

Kyoto, the Land of Ancient Temples and Exquisite Gardens, has unfortunately become a victim of its own beauty, attracting hoards of tourists 🤯. But fear not, fellow travelers! With a little planning and these clever tips, you can still experience the magic of Kyoto without feeling like you're stuck in a sea of people 🤫.

Here are 4 secrets to outsmarting the crowds and having an unforgettable adventure in Kyoto:

• Timing is Everything! ⏰ Kyoto experiences its peak tourist influx during cherry blossom season (March-April), Golden Week (end of April-early May), and fall foliage season (November). If you can, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) or even winter, when the city takes on a unique and serene charm ❄️.

• Early Bird Gets the Worm (or the Temple)! 🌅 Many popular attractions in Kyoto open quite early. By arriving before the crowds do, you can savor the tranquility and capture stunning photos without any photobombers 📸.

• Think Outside the Tourist Trail! 🧭 Kyoto is brimming with hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Explore the charming Gion district, wander through the serene Philosopher's Path, or visit the mysterious Kiyomizu-dera temple after dark for a truly magical experience ✨.

Embrace the Power of Public Transportation! 🚃 Kyoto has an excellent public transportation system, making it easy to get around and avoid traffic jams that often plague popular tourist destinations 🚌.

Foot Hammocks and the ‘love / hate’ relationship some airlines have with them…

Trapped in coach on a long flight to Japan, Economy seating is a battlefield against limited space, and this trip was proving no different. Enter some travelers secret weapon: a foot hammock!

• This travel hack, clipped to the tray table, cradled feet and alleviated pressure on legs and glutes. It’s not a luxurious upgrade, but a significant improvement.

• Some travelers realized the hammock was a game-changer. It wasn't just comfort, but a weapon against fatigue. Long flights leave you stiff and sore, but the hammock allows one to relax and even stretch a bit.

• Unfortunately, Some airlines seem to be at war with these little comfort devices. They have legitimate concerns about blocked aisles during an emergency and seat damage.

Some airlines already have had footrests in Economy for decades, but most US carriers don’t.

@pointsbyj

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🇨🇱 Chile offers a unique change of pace!

Chile, a narrow country stretching along the South American coast, packs a mighty punch when it comes to travel destinations. From the driest desert on Earth to glaciers that scrape the sky, Chile offers a kaleidoscope of landscapes and experiences. Here are just a few reasons why Chile should be on your travel bucket list:

• Adventure Awaits: Chile is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Hike through Patagonia's rugged peaks, ski down volcanic slopes, or kayak through glacial fjords.

• Otherworldly Landscapes: Witness the surreal beauty of the Atacama Desert, a lunar-like expanse with geysers erupting skyward and starlit nights that will leave you breathless.

• Wine and Dine: Chilean wines are world-renowned, and the country boasts delicious cuisine that blends indigenous and European influences. Sample fresh seafood, hearty stews, and melt-in-your-mouth pastries.

• Cultural Tapestry: Immerse yourself in Chile's rich cultural heritage. Explore vibrant cities like Santiago and Valparaiso, or visit Rapa Nui (Easter Island) to marvel at the enigmatic moai statues.

• Wildlife Wonders: Spot penguins, whales, and dolphins along the coast, or keep an eye out for llamas, alpacas, and condors in the Andes.

So, if you're seeking an unforgettable adventure filled with stunning scenery, delicious food, and unique culture, look no further than Chile.