Travel in Asia - any advice?

[Baine]

Posted: 3/4/07 at 1:23am

Oh, and because I was just thinking about it:

Try to see a Takarazuka Revue production while you're here. All parts are played by females (a flip on the Shakespeare era), and it is the most highly-acclaimed form of theatre in Japan.

For more info if you don't know about the groups, PM me. I'm sure that you can find clips if you look, too. ^^ The productions are gorgeous. I know that I'm planning to go to Fukuoka at some point this year and see a show.

[Baine]

Posted: 3/5/07 at 3:44am

How much did I spend in what context? I didn't pay anything for my plane ticket. I got into the JET Programme, so they pay for my flight here and home. I've been here since August 2006 and after re-contracting for a second year, will leave for good in August 2008.

For my short trips, the prices have varied. I definitely spent the most money when I was in Tokyo. I save a LOT of money when I stay at hostels. They're not upscale (though the one in Asakusa is REALLY nice), but the thing about hostels in Japan is that they're *really* safe and clean. There's also a ton of info and desk people who can help you with everything in English. I was hesitant to try one, too, but they don't have a bad rep here at all. As soon as you see a subway in Tokyo and compare it to New York or Washington, you'll see that *everything* here is clean. It's crazy.

Also, if you take overnight buses from prefecture to prefecture, you only pay for the transportation and don't have to stay anywhere. Of course, if you plan to go to many prefectures, I recommend that pass.

If you tell me more about what you're thinking about doing, I might be able to help more. If you have AIM or MSN, feel free to message me [the links should be in my profile]. You can also PM me. I will warn you that I'm only going to be on messenger during your "normal hours" when it is your Friday/Saturday night unless you're up past 3 a.m. EST, since that's when I usually get home (5 pm JST).