Travel

In an attempt to compete on a level playing field with upstart ultra-low-cost airlines Allegiant, Frontier and Spirit, three of the four remaining "legacy" airlines (American, Delta and United) have begun selling less expensive "basic economy" airfares.

There are endless reasons to go to the small resort town of Hakone, although for me personally it was an urge to spend some time in nature and breathe fresh mountain air. Close proximity to Tokyo makes is a perfect escape for a day trip, or overnight stay. I soaked up a lot of sun, took long strolls in the woods and took tons of photos. Duh.

I’ve been wanting to attend a sumo tournament ever since we moved here over a year ago, but getting tickets was not an easy task. I tried booking via the official web-site, but the moment tickets went on sale the web-site crushed leaving me quite frustrated and disappointed.

Japan has invested heavily in their sporting stadiums over the last couple of decades. The country hosted the 2002 World Cup along with South Korea therefore built a number of new venues which were used for the event.

Come Feb. 4-5, C-1 Chatan Gourmet Battle makes a return for its 7th installment. Less than 10 minutes from Camp Foster and Kadena Air Base, the food challenge will take place right next to spring training baseball.

Now is the perfect time for Americans on the island to experience the Japanese custom of cherry blossom viewing.
The cherry blossoms, or sakura, in Okinawa are the earliest bloomers in Japan, with the spring-like weather in January and February causing an explosion of color in parks and wooded areas.