July 20, 2010
Become a Taiko Drummer
This is not your typical music lesson. You won’t count out beats with “ta ta ti ti ta”, but you will translate phrases like “Don Do-Ro Do-Ro Don” and “Don Don Zu-Ku Don Don Zu-Ku” into a series of beats and movements.
Taiko’s origin is in debate, but most scholars agree that the style was developed between 1,600-2,000 years ago. Traditionally, taiko was performed during wars and Buddhist ceremonies, but today’s taiko has a modern twist, often including contemporary influences like jazz, rock and hip hop into their performances. This transition began after World War II in no small part to jazz drummer, Oguchi Daihachi. Read more »
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July 15, 2010
Thank you for the incredible trip!
Japan is an amazing country, to say the least. Our 10 days there were bookended by Tokyo, with stops in Kyoto, Hiroshima, and Miyajima.
We spent our time in Tokyo exploring all the districts. I was shocked by how many “downtowns” Tokyo has. All areas of the city are constantly buzzing with activity at all hours of the day and night. Read more »
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April 26, 2010
7 Great Phone Apps for a Smooth Trip
In the age of technological efficiency, travel would not be complete without the accompaniment of smartphone apps. Whether you’re an iPhone, Android, Palm or Blackberry user, there are an assortment of applications to make your travel experience much smoother. Read more »
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April 1, 2010
Go Orange for Queens Day
April 30th marks Holland’s beloved holiday Koninginnedag or Queens Day, celebrating the Queen’s birthday. The tradition began on August 31, 1885 with Queen Wilhemina, but it was the current queen, Queen Beatrix’s mother, Queen Juliana who declared the national holiday to be celebrated on her birthday, April 30. Read more »
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February 26, 2010
Photo Diary: National and State Flowers
While many European countries do not have an official flower, the Netherlands has lovingly adopted the tulip. Locals celebrate the country’s favorite flower during events such as the Queens Day and Tulip Time Festival. Tokyo, on the other hand, has two flowers: the famous cherry blossoms (the unofficial flower) and the Chrysanthemum. Portland is often referred to as the “City of Roses”, but the state flower is actually the Oregon Grape. The plant produces small bunches of yellow blossoms and then unveils small grape-shaped fruit. This plant is not safe for eating, however, so enjoy its beauty from afar. Read more »
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December 23, 2009
Explore Outside of Tokyo
Japan is rich with culture, architecture, and natural landscapes. If you’re traveling to Tokyo in the winter, here are a few favorite destinations to add to your itinerary.
Kyoto
Kyoto is arguably most famous for its spectacular architecture. With over 2,000 Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines, Kyoto has preserved some of Japan’s most valued historical and cultural masterpieces. Read more »
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December 2, 2009
Celebrating the Holidays in Tokyo and Amsterdam
The holiday season is a time to share with family, friends and community with an abundance of food and celebratory traditions. If you’re traveling to Amsterdam or Tokyo this holiday season, act like a local and join in on the festivities. Read more »
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November 18, 2009
How to Mind Your Table Manners in Tokyo
So you’re on a business trip in Japan and the time has come for that important client dinner. Before you charm your clients with your sparkling personality, here are a few do’s and don’ts that will help win them over.
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November 5, 2009
Bike & Barge Tour of the Netherlands
Join a unique summer vacation in the Netherlands—start by spending a few days in Amsterdam and then embark on a weeklong bike and barge adventure! Travel through waterways of the Netherlands with a river barge and explore the picturesque cities and lovely Dutch countryside by bicycle. Under the direction of a professional ship’s crew and experienced tour hosts Evan Heerema and Dan Kroeze, this is sure to be a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
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October 7, 2009
Design, Art, Markets… Get to Know Amsterdam’s Neighborhoods
Amsterdam’s reputation as one of the artistic, design capitals of the world precedes itself. Whether you are traveling to this old European city for business or a much deserved vacation, you are bound to find something of interest. But before you start wandering the streets of Amsterdam looking for adventure, let’s take some time to get to know the city’s unique neighborhoods. Read more »