 Seminyak is a beautiful area right on the coast in Bali, Indonesia. Although there are plenty of things to do and explore, here is what I would consider to be "7 Incredible Things to do in Seminyak!"
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 Ubud is truly iconic. It lies in the heart of Bali and is defined by its curious, yet beautiful jungle vibes and rice terraces. Although spreading out your time out in this amazing city would be ideal, It IS possible to hit all the major spots in just 24 hours if that's all the time you have. Just to begin, I'd like to mention that if you don’t have your own moped, getting a driver is a must. We were lucky enough to find Gede! He is extremely kind hearted, a wealth of knowledge, extremely comfortable with English, a spectacular photographer (here’s the link to his Instagram), and the perfect guide to help anyone travel around Ubud. There are drivers everywhere, but Gede is definitely worth reaching out to FIRST. So once you have your moped or driver, you are set to go! Campuhan Ridge Walk This hill has some of the most stunning views and attracts tourists and locals alike. It's a mild hike up to the top, but the view is definitely worth it (Did I mention that it's free?). The easiest way to find the starting point of the trail is do seek out the Warwick Ibah Luxury Villas and Spa. There will be a sign that reads "Going to the Hill" with a direction arrow. Simply follow the path and you will be directed downwards, cross the Campuhan River, and then come face to face with a breathtaking Balinese temple. Prepare to be amazed! As you continue, you will eventually reach the top after about 15 minutes and you won't regret it. I would suggest trying to get there as early in the day as possible. The ridge walk can get pretty scorching when the sunshine is intensely beating down around noon. Have a wonderful time and STAY HYDRATED if you go later in the day!  Tegenungan Waterfall photo from http://www.tegenunganwaterfall.com/ Tegenungan Waterfall is one of those natural wonders that everyone naturally just loves to marvel at. I mean, who wouldn't? The best part about visiting is that you don't have to just watch from afar, you can even enjoy yourself in the pool at the base of the waterfall! Doesn't that just sound dreamy? If you're hoping for some cool shots, this is another place to get to before the crowds come flooding. If you don't mind the crowds; the cool water from this site could be incredibly refreshing when the heat kicks in. Tegallalang Rice Terrace I started my day in Ubud in the afternoon, so unfortunately I did not have enough time to see the rice terrace in person. With that being said, it was still incredibly high on my list of things to do and would recommend making it a priority while in Ubud! When I think of Ubud, I think of these incredible rice fields that stretch as far as the eye can see, so do yourself a favor. Go visit the Tegallalang Rice Terrace! If you get a good photo, please tag me (@alleykerr) so I can live vicariously through your shots :) Bali Swing The Bali swing is an exciting attraction where you can explore beautiful sights and get a little adrenaline rush at the same time! There are multiple high flying swings to choose from with incredible views. As you soar across the sky, exquisite lush greenery hangs below. This is the perfect spot for anyone craving that instagrammable Bali photo or anyone who lives for a little thrill. If big swings aren’t your thing and other people in your group want to go, don’t you worry, there are separate entrance fees. The fare is a bit cheaper if you would like to enter the area but not use the swings. Although the swings aren’t included, photo opps with the nests are available! If you aren’t planning to cram this all into one day, you can also opt to do rafting. The company has services that provide both experiences.  Clear Cafe Last, but certainly not least, we have this little piece of heaven. Before visiting, I had heard nothing but positive claims about this wholesome and inviting food establishment. Many of my friends who have visited Ubud in the past absolutely adored this place and the strong recommendations encouraged me to check it out for myself. I surely was not disappointed. As I browsed the menu for the first time my mouth dropped straight to the floor. How was this even possible??? The variety of healthy options was inspiring, and I was amazed at how well they catered to people who eat gluten free and vegan. Vegan "Mylkshakes" with a cashew-milk base? That was a HUGE selling point for me. Eating should be a positive experience. The consumer should be left feeling both satisfied and proud of what they fueled their body with. That is exactly how I felt as I walked out, and this is why Clear Cafe is the perfect place to gather around for dinner after a long day of exploring. Go try it out and let me know what you think! Have fun in Ubud! Check out my Ubud Vlog & don't forget to like and subsribe <3  During this fraction of my life, I did my best to make my gratitude evident. I lived every day to the absolute fullest, and consistently found myself pondering "what did I possibly do to become so lucky?" Seriously, I hit the Jackpot with this one. Everything about the beauty, the people, and the way of life are things that have led me to grow in ways that would never have been possible without this experience. For the millionth time, thank you.  Now with that being said, that brings us to today. Almost a week has passed since I regretfully waved “see you soon” for the last time, and this life alteration has not come without pain.  In any precious relationship, it doesn’t feel good to have something torn away from your grasp without evident reason. It leaves one with many unanswered questions as well as a vacant hole in the heart. That’s how I felt as I was swiftly lifted off the ground to be returned to the place I used to call “home”. I didn’t feel ready to leave the experience, the adventures, or all my friends who have become my family. Part of my soul became engrained into this new life and I no longer felt that the decision to leave was mine. Of course I knew this day was coming since I first set foot onto new soil, but I was in denial when the day did actually come. I was simply helpless.  The past few days removed from my old life have felt almost unbearable. My heart has been uncomfortably fragile and I haven’t been able to put reigns on my emotions. How am I supposed to live my life after something so valuable has been extracted from it? It’s a simple question with a not so simple answer.  At the end of the day, everyone handles grief in a unique way. I found that this loss was more difficult for my soul to bear than I could have ever imagined, and this is because I simply was not ready. The thing is, I thought I was. A part of me was anxious to return to the life I once knew; eager to see, taste, and feel all the familiarities that are associated with my childhood. Despite this excitement, this did not make the goodbyes any easier. When the time actually arose, I quickly realized that I was not as prepared as I once thought. Swiftly transitioning into my new life with comfort and ease is what I had anticipated, but it was not my reality.  Although it may be difficult to understand in the moment, everyone heals with time. Eventually. It may have not happened so quickly in my case, but i finally feel like I’m getting over this emotional hurdle and heading in a direction that will allow me to always reflect on this experience fondly. Just as one must wait patiently for gentle cherry blossom buds to bloom, I must also be patient with my own tender heart.  Not all experiences are meant to last forever. I will always cherish my 2nd Home and the people I met during my journey, but I know everyone has potential beyond what they can imagine. Our journey is never truly complete. There’s endless opportunity in this world, and I, myself am eager to reach my full potential as a person, artist, companion, and global citizen. This chapter may be over, but its significance will last a lifetime. Although not everyone may understand what I've endured, that will never invalidate a life changing experience such as this.  As one chapter ends, another one begins. Throughout the course of our lives, we gain tools that can be utilized wherever our paths guide us. Although one particular fraction may have been filled with incredible moments of growth, adventures, and love, my story does not end here. And neither does yours.   When I first decided to venture out of the familiarity of Tokyo, Hakone was one of the first major places in Japan that I was able to check off my bucket list. Boy, did it leave an impression! The nature is absolutely captivating, the culture is ever so alive & present. The overall energy that surrounds this destination is very peaceful, relaxing, and everything my soul needs to feel whole. For this reason, I made sure Hakone was also the last major place I visited before departing from this beautiful country. The first time I explored this region, I was surrounded by new friends & we were all pretty lost (literally & figuratively). It was all very new and exciting, but much has changed since that little getaway. After a year of traveling, learning, and immersing myself in the Japanese lifestyle, I felt that I was wanting to do this trip on my own. At the end of the day, this trip allowed me to enjoy my own company, and reflect on my time here in this foreign country (and of course meet some new friends along the way). Perhaps I would notice things that I had not observed before, or perhaps it would give me the chance to open my heart and soul as I get close to saying goodbye. Hakone will always have a special piece of my heart. This is surely a place I would recommend to anyone who appreciates the delight of nature & a chance to relax and enjoy the beauty of life! 1. Get Your Hakone Free Pass First thing's first! When you go to Hakone, the cheapest and most convenient way to get around is using the Hakone Free Pass! If you are traveling from the Tokyo area, this pass is especially handy! To get the Hakone Free Pass, your can start from Shinjuku Station (where they sell the passes). There are various ticket kiosks right outside the Odakyu Line gates, and there will be an option to buy a “Free Pass.” This pass will allow you to travel all around Hakone via the trains, buses, ropeways, and pirate ship for either 2 or 3 days. With the 2-day option (which is what I got), one can travel from Shinjuku Station, all around Hakone, and back to Shinjuku Station for 5140 yen (about $50). At the end of your trip, this pass will have saved you plenty of money! 2. Walk on the Old Tokaido Road Back in the edo period, The Tokaido Road was utilized as a common link between Tokyo & Kyoto. Hakone was a pretty important checkpoint along the way, and visitors and locals alike have the ability to stand where samurai warriors once stood! It's pretty mind-blowing, I know.  When I visited, we got off the bus way too early & we were left wandering around for quite a bit. After 30 minutes of searching for any signs of human life, we suddenly came across a random tori gate in the middle of nowhere. It caught our attention and we quickly hurried over. It was not long after when we realized that the tattered stone path nearby was the one we were searching for! 3. Explore Hakone Shrine The Hakone Shrine is one of the most stunning shrines in all of Japan! It is right on the coast of Lake Ashi, and has a spectacular view that will leave you to wonder if you are dreaming. The various subsections of this shrine are woven through the dense greenery, and surely allow one to feel that they are at peace with nature.  It is a peaceful experience to just wander and marvel at the country’s beauty. Especially if this is one of your first Japanese shrine experiences, you will most likely be left in complete awe.  At this shrine, the culture and nature harmoniously live together, and create a scene unlike any other.  4. Sail Lake Ashi on a Pirate Ship Let’s give some credit where it’s due. Lake Ashi is STUNNING. Quite frankly, I would say that it’s 100% worth it to allot ample time to this exquisite body of water. Mother Nature surely has created something special with this one, and what better place to appreciate it than from inside a pirate ship or plastic swan!? Kayaks and other boats are also available depending on which part of the lake you are at. Thankfully, if you have a Hakone Free Pass, the fee for the pirate ship is included. During this ride, you will be traveling to your next destination, living out your pirate dreams, & admiring the beautiful view all at the same time!  5. Take a Lunch Break at Bakery & Table Lunch Set on the 2nd Floor The pirate ship only comes once an hour (this is important to keep in mind if you have a lot planned). If you happen to miss it, you may be out of luck for quite a bit. But do not fret! The best part about wasting time before it arrives, is exploring the local stores. A personal favorite of mine is Bakery & Table! It sits right outside the Pirate Ship port, and has a variety of options to choose from based on the floor level. The first floor is set up like a typical bakery. You can pick your treats to go, and quickly be on your way (Just so you all know, the salted butter roll is my favorite. WOW). However, if you have a little more time to kill, you can even head up to the 2nd or 3rd floor! The second floor has more of a café style where breads, teas, and coffees are served, while the 3rd is a full out restaurant!  View from the 2nd Floor 6. Eat Black Eggs & Catch a Stunning View of Mt. Fuji Owakudani is a valley where an insane amount of volcanic activity can be observed. Thick volcanic gases blanket the whole mountainside, and kindly offer the sweet aroma of sulfur (yum). While you are there, you even have the opportunity to eat the famous black eggs! There's nothing to be worried about; Just your average chicken egg, but with a twist. These eggs are boiled in spring water that consist of sulfur and iron from the volcanic activity!  Once you're done eating your egg, you can mozy on over to the edge of the valley. If you look off in the distance, can see Fuji-san peaking out to say "Konichiwa!!!" Mt. Fuji is the most friendly during the winter time because that's when the skies are clearest, but beware that it can get pretty chilly up there!  View of Mt. Fuji in March 7. Hakone Open Air Museum The Open Air Museum is a must see destination while traveling through Hakone! With exhibits that are both indoors and outdoors, there are various art pieces to explore and appreciate. Hakone is an area of Japan with such astounding nature scenes, and this element offers a very unique perspective on the museum layout.  Inside the Symphonic Sculpture  La Pleureuse  Woods of Net Playground 8. Bathe in a Japanese Onsen After a lengthy day, you may feel absolutely exhausted. Thankfully, Hakone is a very well-known onsen town with plenty of facilities to utilize. The whole area is littered with bath houses, and ryokans galore! What could be better than that? These sites offer both private and public onsens. This is the perfect way to wind down after a thrilling day of exploring this astounding city!  To anyone who decides to visit Hakone, please let me know what you think! It is an absolute dream.
 If you are the type of person who would enjoy frolicking with wild deer while surrounded by the sweet comfort of mother nature, you're in luck! Such a place does exist, and it is only a short trip away from one of Japan's most famous cities.
 Hokkaido is the northernmost island of Japan and is an absolute winter wonderland during the winter months. A group of us originally decided to travel here with the snow festival in Sapporo as the initial goal, but the entire island as a whole has many unique qualities to offer, and we couldn't help but see as much as we could.
 Nagoya isn't the most convenient of cities to travel to when it comes to day trips from Tokyo, but it was definitely worth the trip for us!! Nagoya isn't too far when taking the bullet train; it only takes about 2 hours from Tokyo Station. It will cost just a bit over 10,000 yen (about $100 USD) for a one-way trip which isn't too bad if you're a lucky tourist with a JR Pass. On the other hand, if you're a humble resident such as myself and can't get your hands on one of those babies, a cheaper option is an overnight bus!
We left at about 10pm the night before, and arrived in Nagoya the next morning at 6:30. I find this mode of transportation to be super convenient and beneficial because you can truly make the most out of your day with a forced early start! Willer Express has plenty of buses that can take you almost anywhere in Japan for a cheaper price and I've used their services on multiple occasions. What I learned from trying all the Christmas Food at Tokyo Disney: Japan's idea of Christmas is very different from America's. While an American Christmas is traditionally defined by gingerbread, peppermint, and festive baked goods, Japan sees Christmas in another light. The incorporation of reds and greens was definitely still present, but all the details that I grew up loving were no where to be seen. It was new, exciting, and very different than what I was expecting! Giving all these new treats a try was quite the experience.  Have you ever had people say to you "hmmm.. I'm not sure if that's the best idea" ? Let me tell ya, I definitely have. Regardless of how many people advised me against going to South Korea, I decided to make Seoul my next destination anyway. It may have been a tad risky, but I’m beyond thankful that I made this decision, for this experience has truly changed me. You see, this was my first trip as a solo traveler! Very exciting, I know.
This trip was definitely one for the books. Although South Korea was wonderful, I really wanted to see the part that maybe wasn't as glamorous. I was ready to drive away from the flashing city lights to see a new sort of attraction that I never thought I would ever see. Hours away from Seoul, and through the countryside lurked an ominous northern neighbor that I had heard so much about. You know how it is, sometimes when you hear so much about something, you are left dying to experience it for yourself.  Recently, I had the pleasure of going on my first trip all by myself. From this journey, I have learned that there’s something special about traveling alone. You learn things about the world and yourself that you may not have gained otherwise. From this journey, I can confidently say that I am coming back a changed individual.
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