Postcard from Japan

Years ago, I found myself on a short stopover in Tokyo en route to Hong Kong—a quick couple of days to explore. I didn't have a camera or even a journal, so all I kept were just a handful of mental snapshots and a few saved receipts. One of the most vivid: checking into the Prince Hotel and literally having to duck to enter my tiny, charming room—proof that Tokyo has long mastered the art of efficient design. Back then, the exchange rate was about 250 yen to the U.S. dollar, yet everything still felt surprisingly expensive.

Fast-forward to this year: I returned from a ten-day trip to Japan with family just a week before Thanksgiving, with stops in Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. This time, the exchange rate hovered around 154 yen to the dollar, and Japan felt wonderfully affordable. Maybe it’s the numbers. Maybe it’s age and perspective. Most likely, a bit of both.

Even so, I didn’t buy much—just food, prescription glasses, a couple of T-shirts, and some souvenirs (mostly edible). The flagship Uniqlo in Ginza was a must-stop; we were especially delighted by the basement levels: two entire floors dedicated to food and groceries, both fun and dangerously tempting.

Our hotel in Osaka was tucked inside a Korean neighborhood, a refreshing change of pace from the intensity of the city center. The meals there were excellent and, to my surprise, nearly half the price of similar Korean food in Atlanta. It felt like a small travel bonus inside a much larger adventure.

As always, we took far too many photos. It’ll take time to sort through them all, but for now, here are a few images that capture some of Japan’s most iconic sights and culture.

Gate to Meiji Jingu Shrine

Kimono-clad mom and daughter at Meiji Jingu

Gingko tree and interesting building

Endless Torii gates at Fushimi Inari Shrine in Tokyo

a lovely autumn day at Kiyomizu-dera Temple in Kyoto

Ladies in kimono and traditional Korean-wedding attire

sashimi

Our Tokyo adventure began with an unforgettable meal at a cozy izakaya (Japanese tavern), generously hosted by friends. The dishes above were among the many standouts. A big thank-you to Catherine and Teru for an incredible welcome dinner!

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Falling for the South: Charleston, S. Carolina

Our love affair with Charleston began over twenty-four years ago, and the city still charms us every time we return. From the simple joy of the waterfront swings to the cobblestone streets lined with pastel homes, Charleston’s timeless beauty never fades.

Our fascination started back in the ’80s after watching the classic miniseries North and South. Visiting Boone Hall Plantation—where parts of it were filmed—was a dream come true. The historic grounds and the breathtaking Avenue of Oaks are every bit as stunning in person as they are on screen.

Avenue of Oaks, Boone Plantation

This fall, we came back once again, arriving on Halloween just before lunchtime. Before exploring the city’s historic heart, we set out in search of a great local meal—because in Charleston, good food is always the perfect way to begin any adventure.

Our first choice for lunch was the much-acclaimed Husk, but unfortunately, it wasn’t open for lunch.  Our next option was SNOB (Slightly North of Broad). After all, any restaurant that’s been thriving for over thirty years must be doing something right! 

From the moment we stepped inside, the warm welcome and impeccable service set the stage for an outstanding meal. We couldn’t help reminiscing about the incredible crab cake we’d enjoyed here years ago (sadly missing from the current menu). But any disappointment quickly faded with the first bite of their shrimp and grits. Creamy, flavorful, and perfectly seasoned—it was absolutely to die for.

Shrimp and Grits

Steamed local clams in wine garlic cream sauce

Crème brûlée

After lunch, we walked off our meal with a leisurely stroll along the Charleston waterfront, continuing all the way to the Battery. The weather was perfect for an autumn afternoon—crisp air, gentle breeze, and that unmistakable Charleston charm everywhere you look. 

Pineapple Fountain, a symbol of Southern hospitality and welcome

USS Yorktown CV-10, WWII-era aircraft carrier, in the distance 

Many of the stately homes along the way were decked out with elaborate Halloween decorations, adding a festive touch to the historic streets. It was the perfect blend of Southern elegance and spooky fun.

From its rich history to its irresistible Southern flavors, Charleston always offers something new to discover. Have you been? We’d love to hear your favorite spots or must-try restaurants in the comments below!

 
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Port of Call: St. Petersburg, Florida

St. Pete has come a long way from its old reputation as “God’s Waiting Room.” We were smitten with downtown St. Pete the first time we dropped anchor at the North Yacht Basin years ago. Even then, it exuded a small-town charm, with everything just a short stroll or boat ride away.

Since those early visits, the city has blossomed into a vibrant destination brimming with art, culture, and an unmistakable coastal energy. Today, St. Pete pulses with creativity—alive with music, craft breweries, and a youthful energy that rivals any major coastal hotspot. The Central Arts District bursts with murals, galleries, and cozy cafés where locals and travelers mingle. The iconic Dalí Museum remains a must-see, as does the mesmerizing Chihuly Collection. New cultural landmarks like the Museum of the American Arts and Crafts Movement and the Imagine Museum have further cemented St. Pete’s reputation as a true haven for art lovers.

The new pier opened in 2020

North Yacht Basin

The Vinoy Hotel and Marina

Looking at St. Pete downtown from the new pier (2020)

looking at St. Pete downtown from the old pier (2009)

Old Inverted Pyramid Pier (1973-2013, demolished in 2015)

Just last Saturday, St. Pete celebrated the new Pier’s fifth birthday with a stunning drone show lighting up the night sky.

The city is best explored on foot or by bike, where every corner reveals a new surprise. Its flat, sun-drenched streets and scenic waterfront paths make getting around effortless, inviting visitors to slow down and soak in the local vibe. The culinary scene is equally captivating—rooftop bars offer sweeping views of Tampa Bay, while tucked-away eateries serve up fresh Gulf seafood and inventive, globally inspired dishes. St. Pete has truly evolved into a foodie destination. The vibe is relaxed yet refined, adventurous but never pretentious—a perfect reflection of the city itself.

Whether you arrive by boat, car, or for a spontaneous weekend getaway, St. Pete feels like one of Florida’s best-kept secrets — a city that’s rediscovered itself without ever losing its coastal charm.

Have you been to St. Pete?

What were your favorite spots to eat, explore, or just relax by the water? Drop them in the comments below—your insider tips might just inspire someone’s next great Tampa Bay adventure. 🌴✨

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Port of Call: Fort Myers, Florida

When you think of Fort Myers, what comes to mind? If you said pretty beaches, shrimp boats, the winter homes of Ford and Edison, or even Hurricane Ian, you'd be right.

Fort Myers has long been a quiet gem on Florida’s Gulf Coast, known for its laid-back vibe and historical significance. Sadly, Fort Myers Beach was devastated by Hurricane Ian in September 2022. The destruction left behind was heartbreaking, but the community has shown incredible resilience in rebuilding. 

Pictures of Fort Myers, taken in Jan, 2024

Below are some pictures we took in previous years, capturing the area before the storm changed its landscape.

Shrimp boats

Fort Myer's Beach

This past Sunday, CBS Sunday Morning ran a feature on Thomas Edison. With countless patents to his name, Edison’s work truly changed the world—and seeing where he spent his winters brings that history to life.

We had the opportunity to tour Edison's winter estate in Fort Myers, and it was like stepping back in time. After visiting one winter, Edison’s good friend Henry Ford loved it so much he bought the house right next door. Walking through their homes and labs, you get a real sense of what that era was like—full of big ideas, constant tinkering, and inventions that changed the world. We're talking light bulbs, phonographs, rubber experiments, early cars—things that didn’t just improve life, but totally transformed it.

One highlight was Mina Edison’s garden. She was passionate about horticulture, and her garden remains a beautifully maintained space filled with tropical plants, winding paths, and a calm, peaceful vibe. It’s the perfect contrast to all the innovation happening just steps away.

After our visit, I told a friend that the spirit of that era reminded me of the times we’re living in now: the rise of the internet, and more recently, artificial intelligence (AI). The sense of innovation, disruption, and boundless potential feels very much the same.

Here are some photos from our visits during past Christmas holidays.

Edison and Banyan trees

Edison's wife Mina in her lovely garden

Edison Main House "Seminole Lodge"

and furnishings

Moonlight Garden Reflection Pool

Edison's lab

The homes overlook the Caloosahatchee River

Ford's winter home "The Mangoes"

"Genius is one percent inspiration and ninety-nine percent perspiration." That’s my favorite quote by Thomas Edison—simple, powerful, and so true.

What’s your favorite Edison quote? Have you ever been to Fort Myers or Fort Myers Beach? I’d love to hear your experiences or thoughts in the comments below!

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