Top Three Destinations: Japan, Morocco and Scotland
Japan
This is a country that has so much history and traditions that it attracts around four million tourists from around the world. For an island, it has some of the most amazing landscapes, from vast mountain ranges to forest hills, there is so much nature to explore. The first thing that might come to mind when thinking about visiting Japan is Mount Fuji, a mountain that is famous all around the world and adored by the locals. But when you do visit, don’t forget to visit Arashiyama bamboo forest and the Ritsurin landscape gardens on Shikoku Island.
When you are not in the countryside, it is definitely worth visiting the large number of castles across the country. These were home to local feudal lords and their families during the Sengoku period, but what really makes them special are the elegant facades and the fabulous interior features. A great example is the well preserved Hikone Castle, which dates to 1622. Unlike many Japanese castles, Hikone Castle is in its original state; it never suffered damage at the hands of war or natural disaster as many castles have. Hikone Castle has been designated as one of five Japanese national treasures, which is the highest title for cultural properties in Japan, given due to its unique combinations of architectural styles.
The other main attraction for travellers is the diverse Japanese cuisine, which plays a big part in the country’s culture. Infact the cuisine is so good that Japan has the most 3-star Michelin restaurants in the world. The two most popular cuisines are of course Sushi and Ramen. And some good news for you foodies, almost every month there is a food festival on the island and there is nothing better than eating local. One of the festivals is the Ramen Expo in Osaka. Ramen is celebrated as one of the country’s most popular foods. These simple noodles can be eaten with meats, vegetables, including cheese.
The second food festival that is worth visiting is the Furusato Matsuri in Tokyo, which is normally held in February, but be make sure to do go with a full tummy as this festival is known for having some the best foods that Japan has to offer, as you will get dishes that come from across the various cities.
And the final reason to visit Japan is the technology that is available. From high tech hotels like the Capsule Hotels that come with high tech tablets to high-tech public toilets, you’ll feel like you have time travelled into the future like in the film Blade Runner. Mainly in cities like Tokyo you will see digital billboards everywhere, whether you are ordering food at a restaurant or going to a vending machine, you can be sure that so form of technology is there. This country is home to some of the most well-known technology companies in the world, like Fujifilm, Hitachi, Sony, Nikon, Panasonic, Toshiba, and Yamaha, to name a few.
Morocco
This one country that can often get over-looked by most, why, no idea... This is a country that has everything from stunning beaches to sweeping deserts as well as vast mountain ranges. This is also a country that has remained almost untouched by the modern world; the local architecture has remained the same, using a wide spectrum of colours, so whether you are travelling in a city to the more secluded parts you can expect each building to have its own identity.
One city that comes to mind is Medinas, which has a chaotic vibe, from the street markets and the wall-mazed streets, there is not doubt is is over-whelming. When you are wandering the streets absorbing the local sights, you can’t escape the smell of rich spices, sugary treats, a tagine roasting on smoking charcoals to the locals yelling at each other in Arabic.
One thing that you may notice is that there are cats everywhere, so if you are a cat person, it may feel like you are in heaven. There are stray cats everywhere, so when you are eating street food, be prepared to have a few cats approach you, as they are used to the locals feeding them scraps of food.
Going back to architecture, Morocco has not change in its long history. Using patterns and the vivid colours is in escapable, so much so that you’ll have your phone out taking photos, whether you are walking past a trendy cafe, garden, government building or a random house to even your own hotel, the use of colours and patterns is everywhere.
While you are in the country, we would strongly advise that you visit the traditional Moroccan markets that are full of local shop keepers, unlike the modern European cities. You’ll find everything from painted ceramics to stunning gowns, shoes to hand-woven rugs. Be prepared to bargain for any items that you want to buy, as this is part of the purchasing experience, but just remember to keep it grounded and be respectful.
As a bonus you’ll also find that most things in the country are affordable, so at the time of writing this you can visit a nice restaurant and get a three-course meal for around £12 and of course if you are eating from street food venders it is even cheaper, so much so that you can get a bag of fruit for just a couple of pounds. This of course, includes hotels, whether you are staying at a local guest house to a five-star hotel, it is not as expensive as most destinations in Europe, making it very attractive for quick weekend escapes.
And finally, be prepared to drink lots of tea, primarily Mint Tea. You’ll find that whether you are visiting a local shop or visiting someone, you’ll be offered tea as it is a custom of hospitality. If you are offered tea, accept it; it is some of the finest mint tea in the world and don’t be shocked when it is served in small glasses as that is how it is served. Our advice, never turn down tea when it is offered.
Scotland
Where do we start, Scotland is home to the finest moores and lochs in the world. Whether you are driving or walking, you can’t escape the sheer beauty and surroundings. So much so that Conde Nest voted North Coast 500 as the best road trip in the world.
One fact you can not ignore is the history of the country, from the vast number of castles to walking the streets of Edinburgh; wherever you go, there you are discovering something new. For example, we would recommend that you take The Jacobie steam train from Fort William, an 84 mile trip that takes you through some of the filming locations from the Harry Potter films.
The elephant in the room, the weather. Yeap that is something that you have to be prepared for, the weather is Scotland changes consistently throughout the day, so you could leave in the morning with it being cloudy, and feeling a little grey, and by early afternoon it could be clear skies and the sun is out. For some this maybe a turn off, but we say, embrace it, this is part of Scotland, and not matter what the weather is doing, it adds to the Scottish experience and if you are walking the moores or around a Loch, you’ll find that no matter the weather your surroundings remain jaw dropping.
Another surprise that you might not have thought of is that Scotland is home to some of the most amazing beaches in the world. Parts of the coast line have pure white beaches, so that when the sun does come out, and you close your eyes, you’ll be forgiven for feeling that you are on a carribbean beach. However, we don’t recommend going for a swim; the water is freezing. You’ll also notice the large number of highland cows with their shaggy hair and their long horns. The cows are very friendly, so don’t be afraid if you do come across them, but as with any animal, give them their space.
When visiting Scotland, make time to visit one of the 130 whisky distilleries that are dotted around Scotland. Home to Macallan, Jura and Talisker, you have so many to choose from, that no matter what type of flavours you like, there is a whisky for you.