Cruising the Land of the rising Sun
We are planning on going on this trip in 2017 but would like to hear from someone on the trip this year to determine if we want to go north or south. Also our plan is the first trip in late March, but want to know if the cherry blossoms were in bloom that early.
0
Comments
We found ATMs whenever they were needed. In Japan, 7 Elevens and Post Offices have ATMs. In some of the ports we visited, there were also currency exchanges right at the Visitor Center at the port, and at a very good rate.
The electrical outlets in Japan are the same as the United States. Adapters may be needed for Le Soleal to more fully utilized all of the outlets available. The adapter with the two rounds posts were the most useful. And, even an extension cord with multiple plug-ins would be useful on board ship.
April 19th in 2016 was on the tail end of the cherry blossom season. We did get to enjoy them everywhere, but perhaps not in the fullest that they could have been. It is weather dependent as to when the season starts, every season.
Finally, we got some excellent advice in Kyoto about visiting the Imperial Palace (old) in Kyoto. If you are interested in seeing inside the walls, ask early at the Westin Miyako Kyoto. The concierge is very helpful.
There are always two venues to dine aboard ship. The main dining room can accommodate all of the guests at once, and the food selection has always been great. In addition, there are options available for those guests who choose to go "off" the menu. Of course, if there are constraints on items that you cannot eat, the tour director will notify the ship's chef of your needs.
The second alternative for dining for supper has always been the upper deck dining room. This has been a buffet, and due to the limited seating, the ship will request that you make reservations each day to dine in the evening there. Otherwise, it is always open dining for breakfast and lunch, and the chef has a great selection of items to choose from.
After having sailed four different times aboard ships on Tauck's Small Ship Cruises, it is difficult to imagine someone having an issue with their food.