... I have no wish to attempt a long-haul flight. I'm 185cm tall (6'1") and four hours in a plane to the Canaries is as much as I can stand.

It's some while since I boarded a plane - I quite like the actual flights, it's all the before-and-after hassle associated with airports that turn me off. Whenever possible - now decreasingly often - I use surface travel, more comfortable and predictable.

Sorry to hear about your fall ORB. Wish you a speedy recovery.

Will do in the new year. Have a super Christmas.

With DIY you are on your own. If you are looking at DIY book direct with each provider, sites such as Expedia are great for research, but direct booking means no third party between you and the provider should you turn up and the hotel has no knoweldge of your booking.

One well known travel agent wanted £5000 a head, we had said budget...... First hotel was 5* @ £silly money. when I queried that, that was what was available.

The difference is an AWFUL lot of money.

Advice Taken. Booked diect with BA for flights Cost savings mean if necessary we can book a 1 way ticket home and still come in under any travel agent quotes.

Same goes for hotels, all have 8+ ratings..Everything else is cancellable

Neat trip. Any Shinkansen travel?

Edited by elekie&a/c doctor on 31/12/2023 at 10:10

Here are some travel tips based on my experiences from four trips to Japan. These insights might come in handy for your next adventure:

• Explore Beyond Sakura Season: While cherry blossom season (sakura) is iconic, don’t limit yourself to that timeframe. Hokkaido Lavender Fields burst into full bloom from late June to mid-July.
• Island Bliss on Ishigaki: Escape to Ishigaki Island for a taste of Japanese island living. Sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life await. Snorkel enthusiasts will be in paradise.
• City vs. Tradition: Tokyo caters to city lovers with its bustling streets, neon lights, and futuristic vibe. On the other hand, Kyoto seamlessly blends tradition and modernity. Explore ancient temples and serene gardens.
• If you’re a museum enthusiast, head to Kanagawa for its rich cultural offerings. Osaka is a food lover’s haven—try street food, ramen, and okonomiyaki. For history buffs, Okinawa Main Island reveals tales of the past.
• Learn Basic Japanese Phrases: Don’t hesitate to learn a few Japanese phrases—even if you think you sound silly. Locals appreciate the effort, especially outside major cities where English isn’t as common.
• Embrace Noodle Slurping: When enjoying ramen or udon, slurp those noodles! It’s a sign of contentment and appreciation for the meal.
• A Bow Goes a Long Way: Whether saying hello, bidding farewell, expressing gratitude, or showing respect, a quick bow is highly appreciated in Japanese culture.
• Respect Geisha and Maiko: While capturing memories, avoid taking selfies of Geisha and Maiko. It’s considered rude and invasive.

Enjoy your trip to Japan!

Delays in the system I suspect. Similar situation with us . We are booked on a Singapore flight next year . Are you doing the BA 005 to Haneda ?

BA007 booked that one as is an A350-1000 return same (BA008)

SWMBO has a friend Travel agent, large company with access to systems. ( she usually books flight reservations so we have 24 hours to "reflect") and she had a peek for me and seats are confirmed. payment taken for return now, not for outbound, thinks could be aircraft change.,

either 777 or 787-8

but nothing official.

The A350 is superior which is why i booked those flights. bit more seat room and wider cabin and lighter. SWMBO went to Canada last year on a 787 and was dire.

Ours was the 777 into Haneda , but had seats in the updated business class cabin . Food was still rud bish

We will be having a good breakfast before and taking sandwiches and fruit with us as well as cereal bars.

Last time I flew, i refused the meal when I opened it, but they wouldn't take it away, so I took it to the galley myself and carefully put the tray on the floor.

It's their last chance from me

Previous flight to Qatar cancelled at short notice by them, took 4 months to get refund. Luckily I had filled in the online complaint and had a copy printed off.

Next one was flight cancelled for that day, could go 24 hours before or after but opted for a refund. Still took 3 weeks to get the money paid.

Previous one baggage lost..took compensation as it was worth more than what was in it. I never travel with anything I'm not happy about losing.

Taking own water onboard too.

Minor update.

Wish I'd come before and now wish I'd booked at least a month.

Not expensive at all. Biggest cost was airfares.

Saw battleship island Nagasaki and dejima Dutch settlement.

Still in Hiroshima till tomorrow 26th.

What a beautiful gracious city. Parks gardens and the castle.

The memorial was horrific and I am not ashamed to say that the rain hid my face while walking around the dome and the peace park.

Every time we looked a bit lost people would ask if we needed help.

A 78 yr old gentleman showed us all the way to the Kure Japan self defence museum and took us to the door of the Yamamoto museum.

Biggest battleship ever made but a huge model of it to see.

I don't think Japan is expensive at all.

Nagoya tomorrow for 3 days.

Having spent 3 weeks in Japan last November, I would say that general costs for being out and about are not expensive. It’s only the hotels and their restaurants that are very expensive. Vending machines everywhere and about 100 yen for cold drinks . About 60 pence . Are you going to Yokohama?

Yokohama when in Tokyo.

Toyota museum Nagoya today 27th.

Tokyo since yesterday.

Manic doesn't do it justice.

Did river cruise. Kite museum which was really a single large room.

Cup noodles museum and imperial gardens. Got warned off for approaching the entrance for the tour a few minutes early. Ouch.