As a solo traveler on a road trip across Florida, I wasn’t looking for luxury—just a clean, reliable place to rest my head for the night. The Holiday Inn Express in DeLand fit that need perfectly on a quick trip I took last week. Here is a quick review if you find yourself traveling on the East Coast of Florida.
Continue reading “Hotel Review: Holiday Inn Express – DeLand, Florida (Solo Traveler Stopover)”Why I Travel Solo – And Why This Blog Will Speak to Those Who Do Too
There’s something liberating about traveling alone. No set itinerary to follow. No debates over dinner spots. No waiting for someone to catch up. Just me, my thoughts, and the world waiting to be explored.
This blog — Travels with Matt — is now focused on solo travel. It’s where I’ll share the raw, honest experience of being out in the world on my own: the unforgettable highs, the unexpected lows, and everything in between.
Continue reading “Why I Travel Solo – And Why This Blog Will Speak to Those Who Do Too”Why Are There So Few Trash Bins in Japan? A Tourist’s Guide to Managing Waste
If you’re walking through almost any city in Japan, you’ll quickly notice something unusual—something that’s missing: public trash bins. Unlike many Western cities where you’ll find garbage cans on nearly every street corner, Japan takes a different approach. So, what should you do with your trash as you explore the country?
Continue reading “Why Are There So Few Trash Bins in Japan? A Tourist’s Guide to Managing Waste”5 places to stop around Shibuya
Welcome to Shibuya, Tokyo’s pulsating heart where tradition intertwines seamlessly with modernity, and every corner tells a story of vibrant urban life.
In this guide, we’ll unveil the quintessential places to explore in Shibuya, including the newest addition to its skyline, Shibuya Sky. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, prepare to be captivated by the kaleidoscope of experiences awaiting you in this dynamic district.
Japanese Countryside
The Japanese countryside is always incredible to see, especially seeing it from the window of a bullet train. Everyone always thinks about the hustle and bustle of the big cities, but you often forget the quiet countryside that is just a few miles outside of the city (like of Tokyo). Taken with with an Iphone 10 in 2019.
Lantern Room – Team Labs, Tokyo
The lantern room from the Team Labs museum experience in Odaiba, Tokyo, Japan. Shot with an Iphone 10 (2019).
Love Yourself
Taken with an IPhone 12, Temple Bar in Dublin, Ireland, has some of the best wall art you will ever see. Some of it is on purpose, some of it is graffiti, but it’s all incredible.
New name, new direction
I promised myself that 2025 would be the year I would make changes, real changes, in order to improve myself and my dreams. One of those changes was making changes to this blog to make it what I truly want it to be and the first steps have been made.
Continue reading “New name, new direction”Under Construction
It’s time to get to work and actually follow through on one of my New Year’s goals, making this blog into something I can be proud of!
Over the next few weeks I am going to be working on this blog, overhauling everything from the content, to the layout, and even the name.
So please pardon the digital dust as I put in the needed work and get this blog to where I want it to be. No more excuses, time to get up and get this done and moving for 2025!
Navigating the Tokyo Subway System: A First-Time Traveler’s Guide
Visiting Tokyo, Japan, for the first time can be an exciting and overwhelming experience. With its bustling streets, neon signs, and rich culture, Tokyo offers an adventure around every corner. One of the essential skills for a traveler to master in this metropolis is navigating the Tokyo subway system. The subway system is efficient, extensive, and the key to unlocking the city’s treasures.
In this article, we will provide you with essential tips and information to confidently navigate the Tokyo subway system during your first visit.
Continue reading “Navigating the Tokyo Subway System: A First-Time Traveler’s Guide”How I Cope With Travel Anxiety: Overcoming the Mental and Physical Challenges
Anxiety is a strange and powerful force. It can take a toll on both your mind and body—sometimes simultaneously—and often feels impossible to overcome. Despite being an experienced traveler, I still grapple with travel anxiety every time a trip approaches.
Continue reading “How I Cope With Travel Anxiety: Overcoming the Mental and Physical Challenges”Happy New Year!
Happy New Year everyone! I hope everyone has a safe and fun New Year’s celebration and brings in the 2025 year in style.
2025 is going to be a pivotal year for me. I am going to make some major changes in my life, which started just a few weeks ago and will continue into 2025. These changes will include this little blog and I’m quite excited about it!
So hope you have a wonderful holiday, don’t go too crazy out there, and are able to start 2025 with a bang!
Travels With Matt Blog 