Tsukiji Market: A Seafood Lover's Heaven

You'll never know great sushi if you've never visited Tsukiji Market in Tokyo, Japan.

There's a little confusion here when news came out that Tsukiji Market already transferred locations in October 2018 but take note that it was the inner wholesale market (famous for the tuna auctions) which moved but the outer market, with all the quaint shops and local restaurants, is still in its original location. Most shops are closed on Sundays so schedule your visit accordingly.

 

Best time to visit is early morning when everything's still available for you to try. The outer market consists of shops selling a variety of products/items such as freshly-sliced sashimi, fruits and vegetables, sushi knives and other kitchen utensils, pastries and desserts, Wagyu beef, and many more delicious food finds! Scroll down to see for yourself.

Hotel Review: Nishitetsu Inn Shinjuku, Tokyo JP

Some of the best value for money accommodations we've tried in Japan are from the Nishitetsu Hotel Group. This particular branch in Shinjuku is no exception with its well-kept rooms and superb location (2-minute walk to the nearest train station) which was a great jumping off point to the best sightseeing destinations and shopping areas in Tokyo.

Check-in is strictly at 3PM but in case you arrive early, you can opt to leave your bags at the lobby and explore the neighborhood or pay extra but still subject to room availability.

 

Travel maps and guides in major languages are readily available at the lobby free of charge, as well as some toiletries if you want to freshen up before heading out.

Real estate in Tokyo is precious so don't be surprised if your hotel with a 18sqm room is charging you an average of Php7500/night because its the convenience that you're really paying premium for. Also, most hotels in Japan have single and double/twin rooms only so booking for a family is a challenge unless you're willing to sneak-in your kids and fit yourselves in the tiny bedroom.

 

Apart from the usual room amenities, the hotel also lends a smartphone free of charge so you don't need to rent a portable WiFi or pay for ridiculously expensive roaming charges.

Pros: Clean and well-maintained accommodation, ideal location in Shinjuku (train station and shops are within walking distance), complimentary smartphones available for use in each room, and Shiseido toiletries in the bathroom.

Cons: Small room space and TV has no English cable channels.

 

~o~o~o~

Nishitetsu Inn Shinjuku

7-23-2 Nishinjuku

Shinjuku-Ku, Tokyo, Japan

Tel.: (813) 3367-5454

Website: www.inn-shinjuku.nishitetsu-hotels.com

Dining with a View at TIS Restaurant, Bali ID

It has been more than a year since we last traveled for leisure. By we, I mean the majority of us because since the pandemic happened, the industry of tourism has been one of the most hard-hit sectors worldwide. But with the vaccine rolling out in the coming months, we are hopeful that travel and tourism will be able to bounce back and we all will get to see the world again. But for now, let's just enjoy to reminisce the great time pre-COVID when we can all travel freely.

TIS Restaurant is considered as one of Bali's best-kept secret with its delicious Asian and Western fusion set in the middle of world-famous Tegalalang Rice Fields.

What we ordered

Young Coconut Juice - IDR25K (Php85.00)

Tuna Salad Bowl - IDR45K (Php153.00)

Fresh vegetables with tuna chunks and delicious dressing, this Tuna Salad Bowl is a steal for its price and a great appetizer to stimulate your appetite while enjoying the view and the cold breeze.

Indonesian Trifle Dishes - IDR69K (Php235.00)

A plateful combination of Indonesia's famous dishes - chicken sate, fish in turmeric sauce, and prawns in sweet chili sauce, served with steam rice and mixed vegetables, this dish is the perfect welcome treat for your ultimate Bali getaway. I swear, the presentation and the breathtaking view of the rice terraces from our table makes everything extra yummy!

Ikan Kakap Bumbu Bali - IDR70K (Php240.00)

CS opted to order another popular Balinese dish - Ikan Kakap Bumbu Bali, which was basically grilled fish fillet with lemongrass shallot salsa served with water spinach and steamed rice.

Verdict: Exemplary service, amazing views, Instagrammable restaurant interiors, delicious food, and affordable menu, TIS Restaurant is a must-try when in Ubud!

 

~o~o~o~

TIS Restaurant

Jalan Raya Ceking

Ubud, Gianyar

Bali, Indonesia

Tel.: (62361) 908-3873

A New Year. A New Hope.

2020 may have brought a lot of anxiety and negativity in the world but it also gave our family a lot of things to be thankful for - grateful for the good physical, mental and emotional health, food on the table, opportunity to be at work still, technology to be able to keep in touch, capacity to share, and most importantly, the gift of life. World, say hello to our little bundle of joy.