Posted 19 September 2023

New York, Japan or even India?

How do?
Me and my daughter went to New York in May and absolutely loved the place. She'd like to go back next year but I think we should visit somewhere different but deep down it'd be nice to go back to New York.
Anyway, I guess what I'm asking is, is Japan nice? Also on the list is India; is India nice? Japan looks expensive (as is New York).

It's a tough decision. What would you do oh travelled ones?
Ta.

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19th Sep
My daughter and her boyfriend did an 18 month tour of the far east and they LOVED Japan, and are hoping to go back.

Channel 5 in the UK recently showed a series Jane McDonald Lost in Japan. She only visits Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka

You can watch the 4 episodes on the Channel 5 "catch up" service here

channel5.com/sho…ald (edited)
Author
19th Sep
Yeah I've seen a couple of episodes. It does look great there. My daughter is 14. Do you think that might be a bit too young for Japan?
19th Sep
Japan is a fantastic place to visit. But it will be expensive. Both the travel, and also accomidation especially if looking for somewhere nice in the capital. If you venture away from Tokyo (which you totally should do for at least some of the visit) then you do need to be mindful of the language barrier. Learning a few common phrases, and reading up on the basics of things like etiquette will go a long way to improve your experience.

Whether you pick Japan or India, or anywhere else in Asia you definitely need to prepare for a bit of a culture shock so please do research ahead of booking. I don't know anyone who went to either and had a bad time, but you'll be in for a wildly different experience to what you get in New York - If that is the kind of break you found enjoyable.
Author
19th Sep
Thank you for this. The expense does put me off a bit. I think it might be a bit overwhelming for my daughter as she's only 14. It does look amazing though.
19th Sep
I'd sat Japan or even South Korea. Different and a culture shock (as per above) but not as much as India perhaps
19th Sep
New York, as in Manhattan, is easy to categorise and recommend.
India is like a continent all to itself and can be quite daunting and intimidating.
You need to do your research.

No experience of Japan although it's not somewhere that especially appeals.
19th Sep
India is no place to visit for a young lady, Japan is a safe bet.
20th Sep
I disagree. India is fine for a teenager when accompanied by family.
20th Sep
When deciding on your next travel destination, take into consideration your budget, preferences, weather, and length of stay. If you loved New York's urban vibe, Tokyo might be a good fit, while India offers a more spiritual experience. Both countries have unique cultures and experiences to offer.
21st Sep
I've been to all 3. Japan all day for me.

It's an amazing place, lots of culture, history, modern weirdness, amazing food, transport.

Cleanest, friendliest and safest country I've ever been to.

Autumn is an amazing time. Colours all changing. Still warm at times but not hot. Tourism is alot lower than cherry blossom season. (edited)
Author
22nd Sep
Looks like it might be cheaper to go in Autumn too.
29th Oct
This Brit has a load of great videos on where to visit in Japan. I suggest watching a load as I realised that you could visit Japan without seeing the real Japan.

This Brit lady has the same. Lots of practical info about trains, subways, mobile internet, where to stay, speaking english, etc.

Author
29th Oct
Ah cool, this will be very helpful as it does look a bit overwhelming! Thank you
19th Sep
How old is your daughter? Japan is beautiful in spring unless you suffer from hay fever. India is many countries rolled into one and every part will be a different experience - language, food culture, etc is all different, unless you do just the standard Delhi - Jaipur - Agra 10 day first time tourist circuit.
Author
19th Sep
She's just turned 14. India wise; she's a Beatles obsessive so she wants to go to Rishikesh. I'm not overly fussed about India.
20th Sep
I’ve been five times - Japan isn’t as expensive as people think. The combination of the weaker yen, cheaper transport and eating options makes it rather affordable.

If you want to visit LOTS of different cities it will be expensive to take the bullet train.

Avoid taxis (especially from Narita airport!) and you should be fine!
20th Sep
Yeah once you’re actually there it’s not too bad. But there’s no such thing as a cheap flight to Japan for example.

Once you’re there, as you say it’s actually affordable apart from maybe the hotels in Tokyo if you want something really good and really central. Food is good quality and very affordable. Getting around isn’t too expensive and very efficient.
19th Sep
Japan 100%

Beautiful country, polite friendly people. Visit in March/April for the cherry blossom
Author
19th Sep
That's when it's the most expensive! 😬
19th Sep
Most pepole associate New York with New York City. There is lots more to see, e.g. Montauk, Adirondacks, Finger Lakes etc pp
Author
19th Sep
Yeah my daughter says there's more to see.