Traveling – Page 2 – Travels With Matt Blog

My packing philosophy for travel

When it comes to packing for a trip, I follow two key strategies: redundancy in travel gear and optimizing for convenience. These approaches ensure I’m prepared for any situation while making my travels as smooth as possible. Let me explain.

How to Plan for a Solo Trip Overseas: A Guide to Safe and Stress-Free Travel

Solo travel is an exhilarating experience that allows you to explore new destinations at your own pace. However, planning a solo trip overseas requires careful preparation to ensure a smooth, enjoyable, and safe journey. Here’s how to plan effectively while balancing adventure and security at the same time.

The Final Countdown: One Month to Japan

The countdown is officially on—only 30 days until I travel to Japan! After months of planning and preparing, the trip I’ve been dreaming about is finally within reach. Japan has always held a special place in my heart after several visits, and I can’t wait to experience everything this incredible country has to offer once again.

How to Respectfully Visit Shinto Shrines in Japan

Exploring Japan’s sacred sites is a unique and enriching experience, but it’s important to follow proper etiquette when visiting Shinto shrines. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to respectfully interact with shrines while embracing their traditions.

Two Months To Go: Final Countdown to Japan

In just two months, I’ll finally be boarding a plane to Japan—a trip I’ve been planning for months and one that feels like a dream coming true (once again).

From the moment I decided to go, I’ve been deep in research, organizing tours, and mapping out every detail. Now that all of my tours are officially booked, I’m in the exciting phase of final logistics and last-minute planning.

The Countdown Begins: Japan in November!

The countdown is officially on. After months of dreaming, planning, and hoping, my trip to Japan this November is finally becoming a reality—and I couldn’t be more excited to share this journey with you.

Hotel Review: Holiday Inn Express – DeLand, Florida (Solo Traveler Stopover)

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.

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.

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?

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).