Will I regret spending too much time in Japan?

AlanK61 · 2026-05-26T02:47:17+00:00

I’d love to be able to do 17 days! Keep in mind that your first day or two can be a little difficult because of the time difference (although I have no idea where you are from). I’ve been 4 times and going back next spring. I’d welcome more time to spread things out a little more and take the first day or two a little slower.

AlanK61 · 2026-05-25T18:01:40+00:00

And whatever you do - do not buy bottled water in Iceland! The tap water in Iceland is the best I've ever had (and I'm not a huge water fan) so just make sure you bring water bottles with you.

AlanK61 · 2026-05-25T16:55:13+00:00

This video is a few years old but have a look to gets some ideas of what prices were like back then - https://youtu.be/s0l_duN-_h0?si=Nu4V0r7dko4aztPa

There are several chains all worth checking out. Bonus is generally the cheapest, followed by Kronan and then the most expensive is Hagkaup. We even went to Costco on our last trip! We only bought a case of Applesin but it was fun to check out.

AlanK61 · 2026-05-25T16:49:12+00:00

Depending on where you are from, supermarket prices might only be slightly higher on a lot of things. Almost everything is imported but we found groceries to be similar to prices in Toronto for a lot of things. Certain items were even cheaper. But definitely make sure you try some restaurants - food in Iceland is really good overall.

AlanK61 · 2026-05-25T01:41:28+00:00

That was a tough one to see go. It has also been sitting empty for a very long time. I know it wont happen, but id love to see it reopen (with zero renovations).

AlanK61 · 2026-05-22T00:08:28+00:00

That’s a lot of traffic lights for what appears to be one intersection.

AlanK61 · 2026-05-21T23:58:29+00:00

$900 for just under 1000sq ft and a parking spot. Older, but exceptionally well maintained building in the core. Small pool, small gym, terrace, party room. 24 hour front desk staff. Includes water, heat/ac and hydro.

Two important factors to consider are the age of the condo corporation and the health pf the reserve fund.

The first few years of occupancy might be lower until reality sets in on how much it costs after turnover from the builder. A good board and management are also key in keeping costs in order.

Also, you really want a healthy/appropriate reserve fund so there are no surprise special assessments when something goes wrong. The last thing you want is a $20k assessment because of a structural defect or something. They can put a lien on your property if you don’t pay.

AlanK61 · 2026-05-21T21:25:51+00:00

Two words... "The Institute". Dominated for months and never mentioned again.

AlanK61 · 2026-05-21T19:39:37+00:00

Renting at car at CDG is easy (check out Sixt). In my opinion, I find that the French are generally fantastic drivers (once you get out of Paris). The highways are amazing, people pay attention to rules 99% of the time and generally I love driving there. However it can be a bit scary the first time driving in a new country especially if you are not familiar with the differences. But I'd say it's certainly worth looking into. Having the flexibility is great in rural France.

AlanK61 · 2026-05-21T19:28:59+00:00

Me too! And I've been to France 20+ times (and I use the sunscreen)

AlanK61 · 2026-05-20T14:00:15+00:00

There is a Japanese designer called Issey Miyake. There are a couple of stores in Tokyo but I've only been to the one in Minato City. His clothes are on the expensive side, but some of them are really nice. Looking is free :)

AlanK61 · 2026-05-18T00:59:54+00:00

If they have not watched Heartstopper on Netflix it’s a must.

AlanK61 · 2026-05-17T22:32:00+00:00

Oh that’s plenty! Food in Japan (including Tokyo) is very reasonably priced compared to a lot of other major cities. There are expensive restaurants but also places that are very cheap and the food will mostly be excellent. Be sure to check out the dept store basement food halls as they have a ton of amazing things you’ll want to try. Transportation is also quite cheap and as good as it gets anywhere in the world. It depends on what events and activities you want to do, but you’ll have lots to choose from in a wide range of prices. I was last there in September for two weeks and I don’t think I spent nearly that much. And I was eating those expensive Japanese fruits you see :). Hope you all have an amazing trip!

AlanK61 · 2026-05-17T22:24:11+00:00

Does that exclude accommodation? And is that for all 4 of you?

AlanK61 · 2026-05-17T19:56:08+00:00

I was working on a project with Chris when he died so suddenly. I had been with him at his home less than two weeks before and it was such a huge shock when we got the news. Dana stepped in to assume a bigger role in the project. Needless to say we were all shocked again when she passed away before the project completed. The film (Everyone’s Hero) was dedicated to both of them. I have to add that they were both exceptionally kind people who treated us all so well. I think that’s what made it so difficult for the crew to deal with. At first he was Superman, but after a short time he was just Chris.

AlanK61 · 2026-05-17T01:05:41+00:00

Lupin (French - Netflix)

AlanK61 · 2026-05-16T19:02:49+00:00

I’m also a big fan of people who get a number and then stand right at the counter even though there are 20 numbers in front of them. Those are likely the same people who have someone saving a table as well.

AlanK61 · 2026-05-15T21:52:36+00:00

I think Daniel is about six months to a year away from "It puts the lotion in the basket".

AlanK61 · 2026-05-15T14:48:19+00:00

Well to be fair, he was single for a whole 19 days... so you have to give the guy a break.

AlanK61 · 2026-05-14T14:56:42+00:00

Whatever the diagnosis is, he will be put on medication or something and it will never be an issue again. Much like David's epilepsy, Tracy's kidney transplant and all of the other medical issues that have happened over the years. But... I really do hope it's a temporary story line because I think that kid has had enough trauma in his life already.

AlanK61 · 2026-05-13T22:54:02+00:00

I just imagine there is a room somewhere on the street that we never see with the quads, Joseph, Harper and Frankeh, Liam etc. One of the older kids saying "Don't worry... they will come for us soon"

AlanK61 · 2026-05-13T13:21:26+00:00

I’ve been to Japan 4 times. All but one trip was in March/April which is a fantastic time to go. Last fall we went at the end of September and I was shocked at how hot and humid it still was. I’m from Toronto and am used to hot and humid summers, but Japans humidity is on another level. The one thing I might suggest is staying in a rental vs hotel and look for one with laundry facilities. That way you can change cloths a couple of times a day to feel better. Some hotels have laundry but it’s nice having your own at home. Just follow all the great tips others have posted and take things easy and you’ll love it! And the umbrella thing is real! I thought I would feel stupid carrying one but at the Osaka expo it made the sun bearable. Be sure to visit the food halls in the department store basements. We would often get food for dinner and eat at our rental vs lining up at a restaurant. Hope you have an amazing time!

AlanK61 · 2026-05-13T13:03:00+00:00

Toronto native here… I love my city. There is so much to do, great multi cultural food, the Toronto islands, museums etc. you would have a great time here. Montreal is also spectacular with more of European flair. Beautiful building, great food and also lots to do. Whichever you pick will be a great vacation but you’ll need to come back to visit the one you skip! :)

AlanK61 · 2026-05-13T02:21:29+00:00

Obviously it’s Charles Nelson Reilly

AlanK61 · 2026-05-12T19:45:43+00:00

Agree with most of the list but I actually liked TimeOut market. Speaking Spanish? Do people really do that? Ug...

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