Alcatraz E.R., is a theme restaurant in the heart of Tokyo. Located in Shibuya it is only a short 7 minute walk from the train station if you take the Hachiko Exit. Accessible by some JR lines, Keio Inokashira line, Tokyu Den-en-toshi Line and Tokyo Metro Subway. 

I've seen this restaurant turn up on many 'World's Weirdest Restaurants' lists on both TV and a variety of blogs. So you may have already heard of it!

If you are heading to Tokyo I highly recommend heading to as many theme restaurants as possible it's always one of my goals and you will never have a dining experience quite like this in any other city you visit. As you can probably guess from the name Alcatraz E.R. boasts a prison/ mental institution motif throughout the restaurant. Be prepared for one of the most memorable but totally different meals you'll ever have! 

From the minute you walk into the dark you are greeted with handcuffs and taken to your table which is located inside a prison cell. The food and drinks are just as interesting as your surroundings. And there will be surprises along the way. I really don't want to give too much away because the suspense of not knowing is what makes visiting Alcatraz E.R. so enjoyable!

Alcatraz E.R is open from 5.30pm - 3.30am and is located on the second floor. The best way to dine here is to grab a drink each and share a few plates with your friends. This means you could spend as  little as ¥2000 (about $20AUD). 

If you would like anymore information about this restaurant you can visit the official website: Alcatraz E.R. where you can find the address, a map and even take a look at the menu. (There's pictures!) HINT: If you would like to read the Japanese try using a web browser such as chrome to translate into English.

kirsten

Oahu has a lot more to offer than just Waikiki Beach and the surrounding areas which is full of bustling hotels and stores. When visiting this island in Hawaii I definitely recommend hiring a car and driving around. Oahu is only small so this could be done in just a day trip but hopefully you have a little more time to explore. If your goal is to visit the North Shore there are a lot of lovely little stops on the way. From famous fish taco food trucks, small towns and beaches there is plenty to look at as you drive north. But my favourite stop along the way has to be Byodo-In Temple. Byodo-In Temple is located in the Valley of the Temples Memorial Park, Kaneohe and it only takes about 30 minutes to drive from Waikiki.

Byodo-In Temple is actually a small scale replica of a temple with the same name that was established in Uji, Japan over 950 years ago. Byodo-In Temple was built in Kaneohe to commemorate the 100 year anniversary of the first Japanese immigrants arriving in Hawaii. Byodo-In Temple is a non practising Buddhist temple and is the most magnificent place for everyone to visit and gives you the opportunity to take some time out in such a peaceful environment. I must admit the surrounding scenery is just as breathtaking as the temple itself. The mountains create the perfect backdrop while the gardens and lake are home to beautiful wildlife such as peacocks, swans, turtles and of course koi fish. 

If you would like to feel like you are lost in Japan you are allowed to enter the grounds from 9am - 5pm daily and there is an admission fee of $3USD per adult, $2USD for senior citizens and $1USD per child. This must be paid in cash. 

To find out more information, look at videos or photos and to see a map you can visit the official website here: Byodo-In Temple

kirsten

Calico (猫カフェきゃりこ）is a cat café in Shinjuku. It takes about 5 minutes to walk from Shinjuku station. However make sure to take the East Exit! This is the easiest and quickest exit to take to get to the cat café. Shinjuku Station sees over 3 million people pass through daily and with more than 200 exits it is extremely easy to become lost. Accessible by the JR lines, Tokyo Metro, Keio Lines, Odakyu Line and Toei Subway. 

Shinjuku boasts the busiest train station in the world. But don't let this overwhelm you! With so many people passing through and working in Shinjuku daily there are many awesome things to see and do. The list of shops (from sweets to fashion) and restaurants is endless within the station. And the number multiplies when you manage to reach the streets of Shinjuku. The busy streets offer karaoke, izakayas and of course Calico Cat Café!

Cat cafés are extremely popular in Japan. Why? Because owning a pet is costly and often pets are not allowed in apartment buildings. Land is very expensive in Japan and so it is common for families to live in apartments.

Due to the success of cat cafés rabbit cafés have also become popular recently. Owl and goat cafés have been opened as well but unfortunately I haven't been able to experience these... yet!

There's plenty to do at the cat café. You are able to order drinks, eat a meal, read manga, play with the cats and their toys as well as feed them some chicken. I recommend buying the food - the cats become a lot more interested in you!

Calico Cat Café is home to so many different kinds of cats. They even have a booklet that features all the cats with photos and a little blurb with their names, genders, breed, birthdays and sometimes a fun fact! I was lucky enough to make friends with Gomako (the cutest little persian) who woke up and made her way across the room to cuddle in next to me. 

The cat café is located on the 5/6th floor. There's a billboard/ sign on the building advertising the café -猫カフェきゃりこ. In the past I have also seen workers standing out the front holding a sign to point you in the right direction! 

Calico can be very busy and so you are given an allocated time. I found arriving in the morning at 10 when the café opens is a good idea. If this doesn't suit you be prepared to have a waiting period before you are allowed to enter. 

The price is based on the allocated time you have chosen - 1 hour is ¥1000 on weekdays and ¥1200 on weekends (roughly $10AUD - $12AUD).

If you can't speak Japanese that is no problem the staff are extremely helpful and have guidelines and contracts printed in English.

Below is a video from my experience at Calico Cat Café. 

If you would like to find out more information or see a map of where the cat café is in location to Shinjuku Station make sure to check out their website. http://www.catcafe.jp/shop_shinjyuku.html HINT: Use a web browser such as Chrome to translate the page into English.

kirsten

Want to do something special while you are in Hawaii? Well the sunset sail on the Waikiki Rigger is just that. 

The catamaran leaves shore at the Historic Kawehewehe Beach (Gray's Beach) which is located just past Outrigger Reef on the Beach and Halekulani. The sunset sail departs everyday from this location. Onboard your drinks are included and range from the delicious 'rigger cocktail' to beer and wine. I absolutely love the rules on this cat - when you would like another drink you simply place your cup on your head!

I'm slightly terrified of boats so when I turned up I felt too scared to set sail. However the staff were so incredibly friendly and encouraging that I decided to just go for it. I'm so glad I did because I had the most wonderful experience. I felt truly spoilt on this afternoon - family, drinks, sailing, making friends and the view! 

The sunset is magnificent. The photo below is beautiful but it doesn't compare to the buzzing atmosphere and incredible sight in real life. The sun reflects on the many buildings back on shore in Waikiki. Make sure to turn back and get a glimpse of this too!

 

I'd like to thank the boys at Waikiki Rigger for giving my family a wonderful afternoon and a birthday my dad will never forget!

The sunset cruise departs at 5pm daily and costs $40USD for adults and $30USD for children. For more information such as availability, a map and other tours their website is extremely helpful:
http://www.waikikibeachsailing.com/

Where is your favourite place to set sail? I would love to know.

kirsten

5 years after my first visit to Mount Takao I returned to Japan eager to climb this beautiful mountain once again. There is something so remarkable about this place that I am having trouble putting it into words. I feel like it is something you can only experience for yourself. I often think I would like to live much closer to Mount Takao and visit frequently but maybe that would take some of the magic away.

Mount Takao (高尾山 - Takaosan) is located in Hachioji, a city on the outskirts of Tokyo. The nearest station is Takaosanguchi and is accessible by the Keio Takao line. It's easiest to hop on the train at Shinjuku Station. This train ride takes about 45 minutes - 1 hour.

There are a number of ways to reach the summit of Mount Takao. I recommend starting the climb with a path or a hiking trail. As you hike Mount Takao you are able to take in big, crisp breaths of air while immersing yourself in nature. Who would have thought this would be possible in Tokyo?

If you take path No. 1 you are rewarded with stunning views of Tokyo. From the lookout on Mount Takao you can really appreciate just how tall Tokyo Skytree is as you look back towards the city.

This path also makes sure you pass by all the best attractions that Mount Takao has to offer. Make sure to stop at the observation deck, the monkey park (if you have time), the Octopus Cedar (a natural treasure mentioned in folk stories) and the octopus statue. (Make sure you rub it for luck!)

As you continue walking you will reach Yakuo-In Yuki-ji - a Buddhist Temple that is considered a symbol of Mount Takao. This is where I met an elderly couple and because I was alone they decided to accompany me to the summit. I had the loveliest walk and chat with this couple. They were so warm and welcoming and had visited Australia so we had something in common to talk about. When we reached the top they even bought me an ice cream! I'm so thankful to this couple for giving me a wonderful day and I regret not knowing their names.

The summit is a wonderful place to sit and take in your surroundings. From the observation deck you can get a glimpse of Mount Fuji.

When it is time to head back home you can a choose different path to take. This is a great opportunity to take the cable car or chair lift when you are feeling a bit tired at the end of the day. You can pay for these by using your pasmo/suica card or in cash.

I have climbed Mt Takao in late November twice. Autumn is the most popular time to visit when the leaves change colour. I have heard from friends who live in Japan that the plum blossom season in February and night time visits in Summer (June-August) are also very beautiful opportunities to take a trip to Mount Takao.

In the distance you can see Mt Fuji

For more information on Mount Takao you can visit the Japan National Tourism Organisation's website here: JNTO

kirsten

Ra.a.g.f is a Rabbit Café in Harajuku. It takes about 5 minutes to walk from Meiji-jingumae Station and roughly 8 minutes from Harajuku Station. Accessible by the Chiyoda Line, Fukutoshin Line and Yamanote Line. 

Harajuku is one of the most famous districts in Japan known exclusively for its unique fashion and culture. With the opportunity to visit a rabbit café that is one more reason why you should spend time in Harajuku while visiting Japan. 

So you might be thinking what exactly is a Rabbit Café? Well its a small café where you can have a drink while feeding and petting rabbits. The rabbits live in cages and come out to play when there are visitors. There are lots of different rabbits and the staff let them out according to you. So if a rabbit catches your eye be sure to ask if you can hold it. 

This rabbit café is located on the third floor. There will be a sign outside of the building so just make sure you follow the same picture up the stairs to the café. On a busy day you may have to make a reservation and come back at your allocated time. My friend and I spent this time eating at a lovely restaurant just down the road. 

You can choose how long you want to spend with the rabbits. We chose 30 minutes which costs ¥600 (roughly $6AUD).

If you can't speak Japanese that's no problem the staff are extremely helpful and have guidelines and little contracts printed in English.

Below is a video from my experience at the café. At the beginning if you look closely you can see the rabbit eat. Unfortunately this rabbit wasn't very interested in carrot so when he did decide to take a bite you can see the surprise on my face. 

For the address and a map you can visit the official Ra.a.g.f website here: http://raagf.com/shop/harajuku/

kirsten

The Rockefeller Center is a must-see destination for everyone - not just 30 Rock fans. (Unfortunately the NBC Studio Tour has been suspended for 2014).

However, The Rockefeller Center has so much more to offer from shopping and dining to history and tours.

I highly recommend visiting the Top of the Rock Observation Deck because its one experience you will never forget!

The 360º views of NYC are absolutely breathtaking. It's not until you are 250 metres above Manhattan that you can truly appreciate how spectacular the city really is. The beautiful greenery of Central Park contrasts with the endless skyscrapers that stretch as far as the eye can see.

You may have to wait a while in line and to pass through security but do not let that stop you from visiting this wonderful observation deck. 

For more information on visiting the Rockefeller Center, tours, and passes you can visit their website:

Rockefeller Center

I'd love to hear about your favourite spots in NYC below. 

kirsten

Have you ever experienced a road trip? Driving along with the windows down, the breeze flowing through the car and the sun warming your cheeks.

Travelling by car is one of my favourite ways of sightseeing. The East Coast of Australia is a perfect destination for a road trip. 98% of Australia's population live on the coast so there are many wonderful cities and beautiful towns to visit on this drive.

If you ever find yourself taking a drive along the East Coast I highly recommend making a stop in Port Macquarie, NSW. Only a 4 hour drive from Sydney and a 6 hour drive from Brisbane.

What was my favourite thing to do in Port Macquarie? The camel rides at Lighthouse Beach, of course!

Lighthouse beach is 8km (or 4mi) south of Port Macquarie's Town Green. There are plenty of signs so it is easy to find whether you are driving in from the north or south.

I would like you to meet Obama (pictured above) the cheeky 14 year old camel who doesn't like flies. The camel safari was such an unbelievable experience. The ride was a 20 minute scenic roundtrip and as we were meandering down the beach we spotted dolphins riding the waves close to shore. What a sight! Dolphins are often seen playing in the water and if you are visiting Lighthouse Beach in the winter months you may even get the chance to see whales as they pass by!

Camel Safaris operate from Sunday to Friday every week - 930am - 1pm (weather permitting). To ride the camels it costs an adult $30AUD and a child $25AUD.

For more information like extended hours during summer holidays and a map I found their website helpful.

http://www.portmacquariecamels.com.au/

kirsten

FIND OUT MORE ON MY NEW WEBSITE: kirstendetours.com

I visited LUXIS Aqua Restaurant and Bar on my first night in Tokyo. I had a wonderful experience that I just couldn't wait to share!

LUXIS is just a short walk from Ebisu Station. Accessible by the JR Yamonote Line, JR Saikyo Line, JR Shonan Shinjuku Line and the Hibiya Subway Line.

Ebisu a very trendy area of Shibuya-ku where every night the streets come alive when people get together to visit the many animated restaurants and bars.

LUXIS formed its name by combining the two English words luxury and oasis. I do agree with the restaurant's name that these two words aptly describe the atmosphere and experience. The dim lighting, the large chairs as well as the delicious food make for a wonderful night. And I haven't even mentioned the best part yet!

LUXIS is home to an impressive aquarium filled with marine life and is the focal point of customer's luxury dining experience. I spent more time at this restaurant than one should because I was in awe. I loved chatting with friends and eating good quality food all while watching the turtles and fish swim around from where I was sitting. I must admit even though I am not a vegetarian, I could not bring myself to eat any meat or seafood.

The enjoyment continues with a trip to the restrooms. I've only ever been recommended by others to visit two restrooms in my life. One being in Harry Potter world and the other at a night club in Surfer's Paradise, Australia where there are ladies employed to do your hair and makeup and also a vanity cabinet filled with everything a girl may need on a night out from designer perfumes down to Band-Aids.

This restroom isn't quite as outrageous but it is definitely worth seeing! Although most people have heard of the hi-tech Japanese toilets there is more to discover in this restroom. When you walk in you are greeted by a beautiful Hollywood inspired powder room. Further along the hallway you reach the restroom which has its very own fish tank!

Dinner at LUXIS can range from ¥3,500 - ¥6,500pp (roughly $40AUD - $70AUD). For a map of the location and a look at the menu and packages available I found their website extremely helpful (and it's in English!)

http://www.luxis.co.jp/

Have you ever visited LUXIS? Or a similar restaurant? I would love to know about it.

kirsten