Travels With Matt Blog

What Japan Taught Me About Slowing Down

The end of the year has a way of making people rush.

Everyone starts talking about what’s next — goals, plans, resolutions, big ideas for the year ahead. But as I look toward 2026, I find myself moving in the opposite direction. Instead of speeding up, I keep thinking about slowing down. And once again, that instinct leads me back to Japan.

Japan Is on My Mind This Christmas

Christmas has a way of slowing everything down.

The year pauses for a moment. The noise fades a bit. There’s more quiet time — the kind that lets your mind wander whether you want it to or not. And this Christmas, no matter where my thoughts start, they keep ending up in Japan.

Japan Is the Place That Never Lets Me Go

Why Traveling to Japan Continues to Shape How I See the World

There are places you visit, places you enjoy, and places you remember fondly. And then there is Japan — the place that never really lets you leave.

Lost in the Middle of the Map

I’ve been thinking a lot about what I want this blog to be moving forward. Travel still excites me more than anything—packing a bag, stepping into a new place, wandering a city I’ve never seen before. But the act of blogging about it? Lately that feels a little less like an adventure and a little more like homework.

Thank you, Japan

I returned home a few weeks ago after spending two weeks in Japan, exploring Tokyo, Osaka, and several smaller towns along the way. It was one of most incredible trips I have ever had in my four visits to the Land of the Rising Sun.

The sites, the foods, the places I experienced and the people I met along the way will always hold a special place in my heart. Makiko, Kayoka, Ittaa, Yoshie, Yoshi, Hiro, Yumi, and so many more I can’t list all made my trip incredible. From the knowledge, the care, and stories each one shared along the way made the trip one of the best I have ever taken in my entire life.

My life has not been the same since I got back to the states, with my thoughts always on Japan and missing the world I was lucky enough to live in for two weeks. A piece of my heart is still in Japan and I miss it every day.

Back to Japan: One Week Until My Fourth Adventure Begins

It’s hard to believe, but I’m just one week away from returning to Japan! My suitcase is packed (for now), my itinerary is mostly locked in, and my excitement level is officially off the charts. After nearly two years away — my last visit was in 2023 — it feels incredible to be heading back to a country that never stops inspiring me.

My packing philosophy for travel

When it comes to packing for a trip, I follow two key strategies: redundancy in travel gear and optimizing for convenience. These approaches ensure I’m prepared for any situation while making my travels as smooth as possible. Let me explain.

How to Plan for a Solo Trip Overseas: A Guide to Safe and Stress-Free Travel

Solo travel is an exhilarating experience that allows you to explore new destinations at your own pace. However, planning a solo trip overseas requires careful preparation to ensure a smooth, enjoyable, and safe journey. Here’s how to plan effectively while balancing adventure and security at the same time.

The Final Countdown: One Month to Japan

The countdown is officially on—only 30 days until I travel to Japan! After months of planning and preparing, the trip I’ve been dreaming about is finally within reach. Japan has always held a special place in my heart after several visits, and I can’t wait to experience everything this incredible country has to offer once again.

How to Respectfully Visit Shinto Shrines in Japan

Exploring Japan’s sacred sites is a unique and enriching experience, but it’s important to follow proper etiquette when visiting Shinto shrines. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to respectfully interact with shrines while embracing their traditions.

Two Months To Go: Final Countdown to Japan

In just two months, I’ll finally be boarding a plane to Japan—a trip I’ve been planning for months and one that feels like a dream coming true (once again).

From the moment I decided to go, I’ve been deep in research, organizing tours, and mapping out every detail. Now that all of my tours are officially booked, I’m in the exciting phase of final logistics and last-minute planning.

The Countdown Begins: Japan in November!

The countdown is officially on. After months of dreaming, planning, and hoping, my trip to Japan this November is finally becoming a reality—and I couldn’t be more excited to share this journey with you.