Welcome to my Travel Blog: Hi there! I'm Connor...
Suitcase in Tow is a travel blog created to inspire people to experience what this great wide world has to offer: beautiful destinations full of culture, nature, and so much more! With this blog, I share detailed guides using knowledge obtained from my own firsthand experiences. Whether your planning a quick getaway, or a trip of a lifetime, there’s something here for everyone!
Finding San Blas, One Steep Cobblestone at a Time
Just a short distance from Cusco’s bustling Plaza de Armas, a climb up the Cuesta de San Blas unveils a different facet of the city: the bohemian and artistic heart of Barrio San Blas. Known as the “Balcony of Cusco,” this elevated neighborhood invites a slower pace as one navigates its steep cobblestone lanes, revealing whitewashed adobe walls punctuated by vibrant blue doors and the visible layers of Inca foundations supporting colonial structures. Here, the air hums with a quiet creativity, spilling from hidden workshops and intimate galleries where traditional crafts like ceramics, wood carvings, and alpaca textiles flourish alongside contemporary expressions, often bearing the legacy of renowned artisan families. The journey culminates at the tranquil Plazoleta de San Blas, home to the unassuming yet historically significant Iglesia de San Blas, all while offering stunning panoramic views of Cusco nestled within the surrounding peaks.
More Than Just Pixels: The Stories Behind My Most Cherished Travel Photos
Ever wondered about the stories tucked away within a travel photograph? Beyond the stunning vistas and captivating portraits, each image holds a memory, a challenge overcome, or a moment of profound connection. In this post, I’m opening up my personal archive and sharing the intimate tales behind some of my most cherished travel photos. Join me as I recount the moments – sometimes serene, sometimes chaotic, always unforgettable – that led to these captured slices of the world.
3 Unexpected Hacks for Mastering Japan’s Trains
Japan’s public transport system, while impressively efficient, can be daunting for first-time visitors. To navigate it like a pro, combine the general overview of Google Maps with a Japan-specific app for detailed navigation, and don’t rely solely on IC cards, as cash and single tickets are still essential, especially in smaller towns or for budget control. Beyond mere transit, stations offer a wealth of amenities, from diverse food options like ekiben and mini-markets to practical conveniences like lockers and Wi-Fi, transforming travel into an integral part of the Japanese experience.
From Shinkansen to Shenanigans: A Beginner’s Guide to Navigating Japan’s Local Transport
The contrast between the effortless efficiency of Japan’s Shinkansen, a symbol of the nation’s technological prowess, and the initial bewilderment of navigating its complex local transport system is striking; what begins as a picture of composure can quickly dissolve into confusion when faced with the labyrinthine maps and unfamiliar language of Japanese train stations. Mastering this system is crucial for an immersive and cost-effective exploration of Japan, which offers diverse transportation options, including the iconic Shinkansen, limited express and local trains, subways, and buses, as well as taxis, ferries, and rideshares, each with its own set of nuances to navigate.
Lost and Found in Kyoto: A 3-Day Immersion
Kyoto, where ancient traditions gracefully blend with modern vibrancy, invited me to spend three unforgettable days there. With my camera in hand and a thirst for authentic experiences, I explored the heart of Japan’s cultural essence. I wandered through serene bamboo forests that whispered ancient secrets and strolled through bustling markets brimming with vibrant energy, discovering new stories at every turn.
Japan: Temples, Cities, and a Journey to the Past
Japan. Just… wow. Where do I even begin? This trip was a whirlwind, a sensory overload in the best possible way.
From the moment we landed in Tokyo, it was like stepping into a sci-fi movie. Shibuya, Harajuku, the Tokyo Tower… it was a jolt to the system. Then, Kyoto – temples, gardens, food… so much incredible food. And that day trip to Hiroshima? Heavy, but necessary.
Nara’s friendly deer, Kawaguchiko’s stunning Fuji views… and those little cultural moments, the politeness, the kindness… it’s all part of the magic.
Want to hear more? Get ready, because this is just a taste of what’s to come. Check out the full story!
Remember that happiness is a way of travel - not a destination.
