Tokyo: Things to Do

Well, we've established where you'll stay in Tokyo, and what you'll eat -- but what are you doing with the rest of your time? Fortunately, there are hundreds of attractions in Tokyo for the young and old alike.

1. The Emperor's Palace: You're not going to get inside this thing (sorry) but it's pretty interesting nonetheless, and well worth a look.

2. Shrines and Temples: You can't go to Japan and not visit a single shrine or temple! Fortunately there are dozens around all over. Your best bet is to ask at your hotel; they're sure to know of a good one near you. Some are older than others, some not the most touristy locations, but they're all interesting.

By the way, in case you're curious: SHrines are for SHinto, temples for Buddhism.

3. Shopping! It's so much fun to just stroll around Tokyo and check out the weird and wonderful things to buy. Even the 7-11 can become a fascinating experience.

4. Night life: Tokyo is definitely hopping, even at four in the morning. Again, your hotel is probably the best bet -- or better still, a friendly local. There are hundreds of great pubs, bars, and clubs in Tokyo. Once the Japanese get a few drinks into them, they loosen up considerably, so if you're blonde, watch out -- you're destined to become the star of the show.

Tokyo is quite safe, though, even in the middle of the night. Few fears on that score.

So whatever your tastes, cut loose and have fun! Tokyo is FULL of things to do.

Vegas: What to Do

In a word, gamble. But I’m assuming you want to step outside the box here. If you don’t, you don’t need my help: you can’t throw a rock without hitting a casino on the strip!

But assuming you’re looking for an activity other than gambling, there are many things to do:

• Try a helicopter ride at night
• Climb to the top of the Stratosphere and experience a ride that threatens to
tip you right over the edge
• Take in one of Vegas’ many shows: Cirque du Soleil, comedians, music,magic:
it’s all there for the choosing
• Visit the Imax theatre in the Luxor
• Take in the variety of shops and attractions in the strip hotels (ranging
from lions to a light-and-laser show)
• Visit the circus at – where else? – Circus Circus
• Try the interactive Star Trek experience at the Hilton: even if you’re not a
fan of science fiction, it’s worth a visit
• Take a day trip to the Hoover Dam
• Head downtown to check out the evening light show
• Visit The Golden Nugget, Vegas’ first casino
• Lounge by the pool or head to the spa for a massage and facial treatment
• Check out the collection of classic cars at the Imperial Palace
• Shop, shop, shop! Vegas has a huge collection of malls and shops, some of
them with surprisingly good deals and interesting merchandise!
• Ride a gondola through the canals of Venice at the Venetian

As you can see, there’s a lot more to Vegas than casinos. If you’re looking for a holiday that will keep your entire family amused, you could do worse than to consider Sin City – even if you tuck the sin away!