Japan quick tip #1

In a few months we'd be setting foot again in Japan. And this time, were prepared (I think). We know that shopping is on our list, so one way of saving money in a way for it is by loading up early on our Suica e-card.

Japan is still based on a cash society but their e-cards such as Suica, Pasmo, Iococa to name a few, is a must. These are used for train rides and sometimes pay for items or even services. Then told myself, why not load up early so that by the time we're there, we'd have a few hundred dollars stashed.

But there's a catch. When you load up, it's gonna be in Yen. And the value in Dollars changes everyday. It's like playing the stock market.

The Dollar is up against the Yen. Tourism is at an all time high in Japan. I really can't say if this would benefit us by the time we get there, but at the end of the day, we'd still have extra money for our trip.

The Unspoken Annoyance: Scratches on Your Pristine Rimowa Luggage

For many, buying or for some, "investing" in a piece of Rimowa luggage is not just about acquiring a travel accessory; it's about indulging in a statement of style, durability, and luxury. 

Known for their sleek design and resilient build, Rimowa suitcases are the epitome of high-end travel gear. Yet, there's an unspoken irritation that gnaws at many proud Rimowa owners: the inevitable scratches that come with traveling. 

It come's in stages as well.  

Stage 1: The Initial Bliss 

 The excitement of owning a Rimowa suitcase is palpable. Unboxing it for the first time, you marvel at its flawless exterior, the meticulous craftsmanship, and the promise of hassle-free travel it embodies. Whether it’s the classic aluminum case with its distinctive grooves or the innovative polycarbonate models, each piece is a testament to Rimowa’s dedication to quality and aesthetics. Ours dates back in 2013. When we first bought our two sets of poly. 

Stage 2: The Reality of Travel 

 However, the romance can be short-lived. Airports, train stations, and bus terminals are unforgiving environments. Despite the utmost care you take, the moment your Rimowa is checked in, it’s at the mercy of the baggage handling system. Conveyer belts, cargo holds, and overzealous baggage handlers show no favoritism, and your immaculate suitcase is subject to the same rough treatment as any other piece of luggage. 

Stage 3: The First Scratch 

 It happens to everyone. You retrieve your luggage from the carousel, and there it is – the first scratch. It’s minor, perhaps even unnoticeable to others, but to you, it’s a glaring imperfection on what was once a flawless surface. This first mark is particularly frustrating because it signifies the beginning of the end for your suitcase's pristine condition. 

Stage 4: The Snowball Effect 

 One scratch is seldom the end of it. With every subsequent trip, your Rimowa accumulates more nicks and dings. Each new mark feels like a personal affront, a reminder that no matter how much you spent on this luxury item, it’s not immune to the wear and tear of travel. This gradual degradation can be particularly disheartening for those who take pride in the appearance of their belongings. 

Stage 5: The Emotional Toll 

 For many, these scratches represent more than just physical damage; they symbolize the loss of the newness and the premium feel that justified the suitcase's hefty price tag. It's an emotional toll that comes with the territory of owning high-end luggage. The scratches are constant, nagging reminders that luxury and practicality are often at odds. And some would justify that 

Stage 6: Finding a Balance 

 While it’s easy to get caught up in the frustration, it’s important to remember the core reasons for choosing Rimowa in the first place: durability, functionality, and style. A scratched suitcase doesn’t lose its ability to protect your belongings or its ease of maneuverability. In fact, some seasoned travelers argue that the scratches add character, telling the story of your adventures around the globe. 

Stage 7: Embracing the Patina 

 One way to alleviate the irritation is to embrace the patina. Much like a well-loved leather jacket or a vintage car, a well-traveled Rimowa carries the marks of its journeys with pride. Each scratch is a badge of honor, a testament to the miles you’ve covered and the experiences you’ve had. This mindset shift can transform your perspective, allowing you to appreciate your suitcase in a new light. 

Practical Tips 

 For those who can’t quite make peace with the scratches, there are practical steps to minimize them. Using protective covers, being selective about when and where you check your luggage, and applying specialized polishes can help maintain its appearance. However, accepting that some wear is inevitable can save you a lot of stress in the long run. 

Conclusion 

 In the end, owning a Rimowa suitcase is about more than just its exterior. It’s about the reliability, the craftsmanship, and the seamless travel experience it provides. While the scratches are an undeniable irritation, they’re also a reminder of the places you’ve been and the memories you’ve made. So, the next time you spot a new scratch, try to see it not as a flaw, but as a chapter in your personal travel story. And by accepting all of these, then you get that inner peace.

The cobblestone streets of Europe did pose a challenge on the wheels

In an instant

When you're at work and have those few minutes to spare to do whatever. I spent mine doing a 6 day Japan itenerary for my aunt's. Conditions were very simple. Make it cheap, some thrift shopping, do it in 4 to 5 days and they were specific they should at least be able to go to the bamboo forest.

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove Normally, I would not even take this challenge and deem it near impossible. But I wanted to see what are the posibilities and if they don't like it, then it's ok. Immediately, I had to negotiate, since 4 days in Japan is a waste of money and it needs to be more.

Osaka Castle So there I was googling my way. Looking through flights and schedules. And this is the same time were in Japan as well (November). This is just 5 months away, and I'm having doubts with the rates already. Four hours after, I came up with a rough draft. And this is how it turned out.

Japan right now is a good destination. We were there pre-pandemic and it was a bit pricey and yet worth every penny. It's a no brainer to not go and spend a few weeks there now. Again, 10 days is not enough. The amount of things to do, places to go. Immersing yourself to their culture and understanding how they look at the world, gives that perspective on how we should be living as humans. You wont understand till you go there, and stop behaving as a tourist, go down on whatever pedestal you're standing on and experience on how to be a local. And you would start questioning yourself why can't we be like the Japanese with regards on how respectful they are, disciplined and just in general. Dotonbori, Osaka Anyways, the auntie's are thinkin about it. But again, if I'm in their shoes, decision would be in an instant, a very clear "YES!!!".

The 100

I was surprised to see this email when I woke this morning. Whoever that 100th person, Thank you so much!!! Does that mean I'm a legit influencer now? Do I start shooting videos on a tripod dancing out on the sidewalks and be able to ignore the stares and grins that people would throw at me while I distrupt the flow of foot traffic? Or maybe rent out a Lambo and start doing those gold digger scenarios? Howbout just play video games and have people watch me all day? Endless possibilities...........

My most viewed

This was my most viewed unboxing. I was not even expecting it to go beyond 300, let alone by 2k+. Nothing really special about this figure and it's also based on the movie which most collectors are not that eager to buy. And again, I just want to thank all those who viewed this, just hope that somebody would comment why it's so popular.

And we're off again in July 2023

It was my weekend off and was perfect timing for SDCC to have their returning attendees to have their badges purchased this day. But again, me and another 50-60k people out in the world are probably ready for this. 8AM PST is the hour that we should be logging in and an hour wait to be placed in a virtual line. The first few minutes was already hitting a snag. It was not letting us wait and just gave us a notice that we'll be re-directed. I was like, "probably normal since people are starting to log in" Another 20+ minutes then this happened. "MAINTENANCE". Now there's a problem. I was logged in two computers, one under my account and another to Anna's. FB and Twitter started blowing up. people are now frustrated and but we are all not surprised. And now people are speculating that it might not even happen today and get re-scheduled. 9AM and stil no news. Wondering whats gonna happen next. Then a twitter was sent out that they found and resolved the issue. Registration will commence at 9:30AM and pre-sale will be at 10AM now. Now I was excited the moment it came up and saw that little walking guy that would indicate wher in line we're at. Now it's just waiting whether the tickets would be sold out by the time I get the chance to buy the badges. And I got in under my account. Anna's was still an hour away. To my surprise all days are available including Preview Night. But I had to skip that since thats only 3hrs and I would have to cough up another $55.No thank you. My friend Vinh wanted to go on Thursday and Friday only but at the very last minute decided to go on all days. I think we had lady luck on our side. So I went and left Anna's account still in line just wondering if it would be able to get in. I returned some stuff I bought from Amazon to UPS and by the time I got home, Anna's account was still in-line. Waited again for another 10-15 minutes, and got in. Thursday and Friday were the only days left. This day ended well for us. And now people at work would just be like, "How are you able to get those badges and can you get me one?". Argghhhhhh. It's just..........