Lined with idiosyncratic stores with neon signs, Austin’s South Congress Avenue is a wide street with stunning views to the downtown area and the Capitol (bigger than Washington DC’s apparently) in the distance. It has an endearingly kitsch and kooky Tex-Mex thing going on that’s 100% Austin. Close your eyes and recall those classical Hollywood … Read more
The best New York City take-homes didn’t find me as they have in other cities on our global grand tour. Because I have to confess that like New York City itself, I find shopping in Manhattan overwhelming and the sheer choice somewhat maddening that I often can’t be bothered even browsing. I prefer moving at … Read more
Strolling the leafy lanes of the atmospheric quarter of Yanaka is like stepping back in time. Dotted with historic temples and traditional low-rise wooden houses, this laidback area is one of Tokyo’s oldest neighbourhoods, dating back to the Edo period (1603-1867). It’s also one of the few areas of the city to survive the Great … Read more
The best Tokyo take-homes include beautiful notebooks, postcards and note paper. Stationery makes for terrific Tokyo souvenirs, especially for long-term travellers, because it’s not only pretty, but it’s practical, affordable, and weighs nothing at all. Fortunately Tokyo is also home to some of the world’s best stationery shops. As you’d expect, being a writer, I’m … Read more
Tokyo take-homes must be the most covetable in the world for travellers who appreciate beautiful things. I don’t need to give you ideas as to where to find lovely locally made mementoes, although it’s a task I’ve relished, as there’s no shortage of elegant shops selling enchanting souvenirs, or omiyage in Japanese, all over Tokyo. Tokyo Take-Homes: Quintessential Keepsakes What … Read more