Japan is a fascinating country with a rich cultural heritage, modern technology, and beautiful landscapes. I visited June-July of 2023 and fell in LOVE! 

Here are some travel tips for visiting Japan in 2024 :D

1. 1.Transportation:

   • Consider getting a Japan Rail Pass if you plan to travel between cities. It offers unlimited travel on most JR trains for a fixed period.
   • Public transportation is excellent, so use trains and buses for city travel. In major cities, the subway systems are efficient and easy to navigate.
   • Renting a pocket Wi-Fi or getting a SIM card is recommended for easy navigation using maps and translation apps.

2. 2.Accommodation:

   • Book accommodations in advance, especially during peak seasons, to ensure availability and possibly get better rates.
   • Traditional ryokans (Japanese inns) offer a unique experience. Try staying in one to enjoy Japanese hospitality.

3. 3.Language:

   • While many people in tourist areas and major cities speak some English, learning a few basic Japanese phrases can be helpful and appreciated.
   • Download a translation app for assistance in communicating with locals.

4. 4.Cultural Etiquette:

   • Familiarize yourself with Japanese customs, such as bowing and removing shoes when entering someone's home or certain traditional accommodations.
   • Be mindful of noise levels in public places and refrain from talking on the phone in public transportation.

5. 5.Currency:

   • Cash is still widely used in Japan. Make sure to have enough yen, especially in rural areas or smaller establishments that may not accept credit cards.

6. 6.Weather:

   • Check the weather for your specific travel dates and pack accordingly. Japan experiences four distinct seasons, and the climate can vary greatly.

7. 7.Local Cuisine:

   • Don't miss out on trying local dishes such as sushi, ramen, tempura, and Japanese sweets. Be open to exploring different types of cuisine.
   • Learn basic table manners, such as saying "Itadakimasu" before a meal and "Gochisousama deshita" after finishing.

8. 8.Cultural Attractions:

   • Visit historical sites like Kyoto, with its temples and traditional tea houses, and Tokyo for a mix of modern and traditional attractions.
   • Plan your visit to coincide with traditional festivals or events happening during your stay.

9. 9.Technology:

   • Japan is known for its advanced technology. Embrace it but also be respectful of the local customs and traditions.

10. 10.Respect for Nature:

    • Japan has stunning natural landscapes. Whether it's cherry blossoms in spring or colorful foliage in autumn, try to appreciate the beauty of nature.

Remember to check for any travel advisories or updates before your trip, and have a wonderful time exploring Japan!

10 Tips for Hiking at Arches National Park 

Arches Hike Details 

Distance: 3 miles (4.8 km) round trip

Happy Hiking! 

 Happy SUNDAY! 

Daus Peach Haus had live music, good vibes, and plenty of spaces to sit! We found a relaxing spot under the trees to save us from the Texas heat! We ordered the Peach wine and it was as delicious as I remember it. For only about $21 the bottle I cannot recommend enough how budget-friendly this spot is! 

Whether it's for a girl's trip, family fun, or a date with your loved one this spot will definitely meet your needs! You can also order cheese and crackers to keep you going. I definitely recommend coming to this spot fall-spring so you aren't overheating during the summer. I cannot wait to come back in November! 

It had been a while since I have shot with my camera as I have been shooting with mainly my phone and luckily, Jose convinced me to bring it out, and wow! I had forgotten how gorgeous the shots can be with my canon! You can shop it here, along with my red lens.  

Camera:6D mark 2

Lens: 35mm f/1.4 

Jose and I hung around here for about 3 hours, had the most amazing conversations, and relaxation. We actually took these images with my tripod which I 10/10 recommend bringing just in case you have no one to capture your memories!

Tripod: For your phone 

For your camera

Here is a list of other Wineries in the area that you're gonna love! 

XOXO JAZZ

Hey Babes! This past weekend was one for the books! One of my long-time friends Paulina came to San Antonio to visit. It has been about 2-3 years since we have last seen each other. I was excited about her arrival so I couldn't help but want to take her around all the beautiful spots in SATX! 

We did, however, ended up staying at this cute, historic, good vibes coffee shop/bar in the heart of the South Town district connected to King Williams! 

Location: The Jewel SA at 1102 South Alamo St. 

We arrived at about 1pm and had our second coffee of the day.

Order: A cold brew with a splash of cinnamon vanilla syrup and macadamia milk! 

10/10 recommend :D It was my first time trying this combo and I loved it!

I invited some of my girls to join us and man did it become a PARTY! We overstayed our stay at this gorgeous spot! From cocktails, to live music laughs, and more we ended up ordering food from next door and enjoyed at this cute spot! 

I absolutely love that Aaron, one of the owners showed not only incredible hospitality but also supports other small businesses around him. It was nice to see a community in this sweet neighborhood. Makes me only want to support all these small businesses more and more. 

For drinks we had,

Mimosas - Always yummy

& the Pineapple Martini 10/10 (New drink on the menu and I LOVE!) 

Fun Fact: There is brunch on the weekends here so I def recommend stopping by to enjoy the ambiance. 

Also, there are so many regulars on weekdays working remotely from the shop. If you are also working from home, I recommend coming early in the morning, grabbing a seat while enjoying a delicious coffee in a spot that makes you feel RIGHT AT HOME. 

We took so many photos, and had a blast doing so! This spot is so insta worthy... every corner is stunning! 

I edited all my images with my presets which you can find here, Jazz Exploring Presets :D 

I used the ATX preset pack for these. 

Welcome back babes! I had the most wonderful time celebrating my friend Daisy’s 25th birthday! A whole quarter life! I know… I can’t believe how time flies! We met back in 2014 in our environmental science class… she was the girl with a cap 🧢 hiding her sleep away in this early lecture and I was the peppy girl ready to learn and make friends. I am so happy we hit it off because she has been my soul sister since! 

This weekend I headed over to HTown with my girl Sussan to celebrate! Here are a couple of the spots we got to visit! 

Stop #1 McIntyre’s  mcintyresusa.com/heights

I ordered a frozen mango margarita and quesadillas de Pastor from the outdoor food truck! 10/10 delicious!

TASTE + Bar & Kitchen 😍 

Tom n Toms!

The Houston Galleria Water Wall 

Catalina Coffee 

That is all babes!