Kyoto Archives - Journeys With Stephen

[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”section” _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row admin_label=”row” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}” column_structure=”3_4,1_4″][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” global_colors_info=”{}”]I am dealing with the urban sprawl and hectic pace of Tokyo, and I long for a more manageable Japanese cultural experience. Kyoto is just a couple of hours away by bullet train. Is it worth trying to see Kyoto with just a weekend to spare? The answer is yes!

I often visit a place the first time on a “highlights” schedule to determine if I would want to return and spend more time or not. One might argue that two days would not do Kyoto justice. I would argue that two days begins to give one the appreciation that this is a special region worth a deeper exploration, but still satisfying for a short visit. So here goes!
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https://journeyswithstephen.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/Shinkansen-train-Tokyo-to-Kyoto.jpg” alt=”Shinkansen train Tokyo to Kyoto” title_text=”Shinkansen train Tokyo to Kyoto” align_tablet=”center” align_last_edited=”on|desktop” admin_label=”Shinkansen train Tokyo to Kyoto” _builder_version=”4.16″ use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” animation=”off” sticky=”off” always_center_on_mobile=”on” global_colors_info=”{}” align_phone=”center”][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” hover_enabled=”0″ use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]

I depart Tokyo’s Shinjuku station Friday morning on the Shinkansen bullet train for a direct trip to Kyoto. We reach speeds of 320 km/hr. By lunchtime I have checked into the Westin Miyako and am ready to explore some temples or shrines.

First we need to understand the difference between a temple and a shrine. Westerners could think of it as the difference between a church and a synagogue. The Shinto religion, often associated with more earthly matters, is practiced at a shrine. Buddhism, the religion of more spiritual matters, is practiced at a temple. That’s a simplification, but it works for now.

[/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https://journeyswithstephen.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/Monks-at-Ginkaku-ji-temple.jpg” alt=”Monks at Ginkaku-ji temple” title_text=”Monks at Ginkaku-ji temple” align_tablet=”center” align_last_edited=”on|desktop” admin_label=”Monks at Ginkaku-ji temple” _builder_version=”4.16″ use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” animation=”off” sticky=”off” always_center_on_mobile=”on” global_colors_info=”{}” align_phone=”center”][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” global_colors_info=”{}”]So we must visit both a shrine and a temple. But there are thousands to choose from. This weekend we will see the three I would suggest on a short first-time trip.

Ginkaku-ji Temple (The Silver Pavilion)

From my hotel, this temple is at the end of a pleasant stroll along an old canal lined with cherry trees. The adjacent little alley is called “The Path of Philosophy.” It is also temple row, with inviting stops at Nanzen-ji Temple, Eikan-do Temple and several others. At the end of the path we reach our destination.
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https://journeyswithstephen.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/Ginkaku-ji-temple-cemetery-Kyoto.jpg” alt=”Ginkaku-ji temple cemetery Kyoto” title_text=”Ginkaku-ji temple cemetery Kyoto” align_tablet=”center” align_last_edited=”on|desktop” admin_label=”Ginkaku-ji temple cemetery Kyoto” _builder_version=”4.16″ use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” animation=”off” sticky=”off” always_center_on_mobile=”on” global_colors_info=”{}” align_phone=”center”][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” global_colors_info=”{}”]While it is called The Silver Pavilion, it is not coated in silver leaf. Instead, this 15th century temple is a perfect example of a complex of buildings and gardens and woods that inspires peace and tranquility. You could be hundreds of miles from the city, but you are not.

In some ways Ginkaku-Ji (aka Higashiyama Jisho-Ji) will become my favorite temple in Kyoto. The crowds seem to be elsewhere, and one can reflect and appreciate all things natural and spiritual. I stroll the grounds, watch monks, and see a little fountain with water shooting out of a dragon’s mouth. A tiny cemetery is both reverent and picturesque. Allow a couple of hours for the whole experience in tranquility.
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https://journeyswithstephen.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/Dragon-fountain-Ginkaku-ji-temple.jpg” alt=”Dragon fountain Ginkaku-ji temple” title_text=”Dragon fountain Ginkaku-ji temple” align_tablet=”center” align_last_edited=”on|desktop” admin_label=”Dragon fountain Ginkaku-ji temple” _builder_version=”4.16″ use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” animation=”off” sticky=”off” always_center_on_mobile=”on” global_colors_info=”{}” align_phone=”center”][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” hover_enabled=”0″ use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]

Friday evening I visit the famous Gion or Geisha district.

Gion is the most famous district of Kyoto, with traditional homes and businesses tucked neatly along backstreets. The best way to see it is with a guide. WaRaiDo offers an English-speaking guide who conducts about a 3-hour walking tour on Friday evenings, perfect for our weekend getaway.

[/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https://journeyswithstephen.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/Stephen-and-kimono-girl-in-Kyoto.jpg” alt=”Stephen Henson and kimono girl in Kyoto” title_text=”Stephen Henson and kimono girl in Kyoto” align_tablet=”center” align_last_edited=”on|desktop” admin_label=”Stephen and kimono girl in Kyoto” _builder_version=”4.16″ use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” animation=”off” sticky=”off” always_center_on_mobile=”on” global_colors_info=”{}” align_phone=”center”][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” global_colors_info=”{}”]You will learn more than you thought possible about the world of Maiko (apprentices) and Geisha culture. It is a great way to be immersed into the history, life, and entertainment of Kyoto. As a tip, I suggest arriving to the tour early so you can get to know the guide and bombard her with a million questions before others arrive.

We have a lot to accomplish on Saturday, our one full day in Kyoto – shopping, a shrine, dinner, a street fair – so let’s get going!

I’m not a big shopper, especially when time is limited. But I do enjoy a local city market. Kyoto has several, but none better than the famous Nishiki Market. From fashion to food, this area, which actually encompasses several streets just off the main shopping drag downtown, is a treasure.
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https://journeyswithstephen.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/Kyoto-octopus-and-quail-egg.jpg” alt=”Kyoto octopus and quail egg” title_text=”Kyoto octopus and quail egg” align_tablet=”center” align_last_edited=”on|desktop” admin_label=”Kyoto octopus and quail egg” _builder_version=”4.16″ use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” animation=”off” sticky=”off” always_center_on_mobile=”on” global_colors_info=”{}” align_phone=”center”][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” global_colors_info=”{}”]Boutiques range from a store where you can buy Japanese kimono sandals with matching purse to a dedicated Hello Kitty store. I find a shop that sells local crafts and buy a little carved and hand-painted penguin for my daughter.

There are plenty of food stands. I can’t bring myself to try quail egg cooked inside the head of an octopus, but a homemade green tea ice cream cone hits the spot on a hot day.
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https://journeyswithstephen.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/Kyoto-green-tea-ice-cream-cone.jpg” alt=”Kyoto green tea ice cream cone” title_text=”Kyoto green tea ice cream cone” align_tablet=”center” align_last_edited=”on|desktop” admin_label=”Kyoto green tea ice cream cone” _builder_version=”4.16″ use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” animation=”off” sticky=”off” always_center_on_mobile=”on” global_colors_info=”{}” align_phone=”center”][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” global_colors_info=”{}”]

It’s then a short subway ride to Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine.

This is number one on the greatest hits of Japanese shrines. The immense, hilly grounds are marked by thousands of bright orange torii gates that seemingly wind on forever. Eerie graveyards and miniature shrines highlight the breaks between them. There is plenty of history, too. The shrine was dedicated to the god of rice and sake back in the 8th century.
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https://journeyswithstephen.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/Fushimi-Inari-shrine-posts.jpg” alt=”Fushimi Inari shrine posts” title_text=”Fushimi Inari shrine posts” align_tablet=”center” align_last_edited=”on|desktop” admin_label=”Fushimi Inari shrine posts” _builder_version=”4.16″ use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” animation=”off” sticky=”off” always_center_on_mobile=”on” global_colors_info=”{}” align_phone=”center”][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” global_colors_info=”{}”]Photographers will have a field day here. Hikers will be delighted by the enormous hilly layout. People-watchers will see plenty of kimono-clad girls. Casual visitors can just take in a portion and leave the rest for another time – and there must be one!

The shrine is just a few-minute walk from either the JR Inari station (JR Nara Line) or Fushimiinari station (Keihan Line). You must allow at least a couple of hours for walking the grounds, but a half-day is preferable.

All this walking has made me hungry!

Japanese food is great. I’m guessing this is not the first time you have heard that. The biggest challenge in Kyoto is trying to choose from a seemingly endless array of cool restaurants that line the Kamo River, which slices through the heart of the city. In the summer, open-air dining areas unique to Kyoto, called Yuka, are constructed. That even extends the myriad of options.
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https://journeyswithstephen.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/Kyoto-restaurant-sign.jpg” alt=”Kyoto restaurant sign” title_text=”Kyoto restaurant sign” align_tablet=”center” align_last_edited=”on|desktop” admin_label=”Kyoto restaurant sign” _builder_version=”4.16″ use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” animation=”off” sticky=”off” always_center_on_mobile=”on” global_colors_info=”{}” align_phone=”center”][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” global_colors_info=”{}”]The place I choose for dinner specializes in grilled meats. The menu includes duck, deer, boar, ostrich and horse. Inspired by their restaurant sign (see photo above), I’m obliged to order the chicken/pork/beef steak combination. The edamame is the best I have ever eaten and the fries are spiced with wasabi. I wash it all down with a few local craft brews. Gochidou sama desita.
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https://journeyswithstephen.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/Kyoto-restaurant-dinner.jpg” alt=”Kyoto restaurant dinner” title_text=”Kyoto restaurant dinner” align_tablet=”center” align_last_edited=”on|desktop” admin_label=”Kyoto restaurant dinner” _builder_version=”4.16″ use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” animation=”off” sticky=”off” always_center_on_mobile=”on” global_colors_info=”{}” align_phone=”center”][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” global_colors_info=”{}”]Strolling down Kiyamachi Street after dinner, I encounter a nighttime local street fair. A hundred people are participating in some kind of local dance, many dressed up in kimonos. There are little games (I try hard not to win a goldfish). And for sale, cans of beer floating in tubs of icy water (I try hard to win this game). Everyone is smiling and friendly to me, though I seem to be the only foreigner crashing the party.
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https://journeyswithstephen.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/Kyoto-street-fair-dance.jpg” alt=”Kyoto street fair dance” title_text=”Kyoto street fair dance” align_tablet=”center” align_last_edited=”on|desktop” admin_label=”Kyoto street fair dance” _builder_version=”4.16″ use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” animation=”off” sticky=”off” always_center_on_mobile=”on” global_colors_info=”{}” align_phone=”center”][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” global_colors_info=”{}”]It looks like the nightlife is just beginning in Kyoto, but it has been a long day. Plus, we have one more temple to visit early Sunday morning.

Kinkaku-ji Temple (The Golden Pavilion)

This splendid temple is literally the symbol for Kyoto. Originally built in the 14th century, the current gold leaf-coated structure was reconstructed in 1955.
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https://journeyswithstephen.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/Kinkaku-ji-Golden-Pavilion-reflection.jpg” alt=”Kinkaku-ji Golden Pavilion reflection” title_text=”Kinkaku-ji Golden Pavilion reflection” align_tablet=”center” align_last_edited=”on|desktop” admin_label=”Kinkaku-ji Golden Pavilion reflection” _builder_version=”4.16″ use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” animation=”off” sticky=”off” always_center_on_mobile=”on” global_colors_info=”{}” align_phone=”center”][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” global_colors_info=”{}”]The biggest drawback to such a magnificent temple is its popularity. I arrive right at its 9:00 am opening, and there are already busloads of tourists from China, Italy and elsewhere. Waiting would not have helped; it is even more crowded when I leave. Everyone jockeys for the best spot to capture the temple with its reflection in the pond that leads to it. Do not let the crowds deter you. You will have a great experience.

Note, try to go on a sunny day. The temple and its reflection look best in the morning sun. The grounds are also quite beautiful.
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https://journeyswithstephen.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/Kinkaku-ji-Golden-Pavilion-closeup.jpg” alt=”Kinkaku-ji Golden Pavilion closeup” title_text=”Kinkaku-ji Golden Pavilion closeup” align_tablet=”center” align_last_edited=”on|desktop” admin_label=”Kinkaku-ji Golden Pavilion closeup” _builder_version=”4.16″ use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” animation=”off” sticky=”off” always_center_on_mobile=”on” global_colors_info=”{}” align_phone=”center”][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” global_colors_info=”{}”]The second drawback is that the Golden Pavilion is on the far west side of Kyoto. Public transportation is not that convenient. Upscale travelers should splurge for a taxi to and from the temple. They are plentiful and save precious time too.

Speaking of time, I must now jump in the hotel courtesy van and be shuttled back to the main train station for my bullet train back to Tokyo. In just a little over 48 hours we have managed to escape the trappings of the metropolis and immerse in a bit of Japan that is both ancient and modern, religious and secular, upscale and budget.

Mata atode, Kyoto!
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What’s upscale?

Reserve “Green Car” seats on the Shinkansen bullet train between Tokyo and Kyoto. It is sort of the equivalent of business class on a plane, at a reasonable cost.

The suite at The Westin Miyako overlooks a traditional Japanese garden and is adjacent to a mountain trail.

It is more enjoyable to use a local guide as you tour Gion, rather than try to manage it yourself.

What’s budget?

Temples and shrines are either free or a small donation.

A lot of competition seems to keep restaurant and lodging costs lower than Tokyo.

The meticulous subways are convenient and inexpensive.

[/et_pb_text][et_pb_social_media_follow follow_button=”on” admin_label=”Social Media Follow” _builder_version=”4.16″ link_shape=”rounded_rectangle” saved_tabs=”all” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_social_media_follow_network social_network=”instagram” url=”http://www.instagram.com/journeyswithstephen” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_color=”#517fa4″ bg_color=”#517fa4″ global_colors_info=”{}” follow_button=”on” url_new_window=”on”] Instagram [/et_pb_social_media_follow_network][et_pb_social_media_follow_network social_network=”twitter” url=”http://www.twitter.com/journeystephen” _builder_version=”4.22.2″ background_color=”#000000″ bg_color=”#00aced” global_colors_info=”{}” follow_button=”on” url_new_window=”on”] Twitter [/et_pb_social_media_follow_network][et_pb_social_media_follow_network social_network=”facebook” url=”http://www.facebook.com/journeyswithstephen” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_color=”#3b5998″ bg_color=”#3b5998″ global_colors_info=”{}” follow_button=”on” url_new_window=”on”] facebook [/et_pb_social_media_follow_network][/et_pb_social_media_follow][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]

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The hotel in Bangkok gave me a luxurious suite. In the morning I feasted on their sumptuous buffet breakfast. They granted me a 7:00pm checkout, since I was taking a late-night flight. All for free. It pays to be loyal to a hotel chain, in this case the former Starwood, now Marriott program.

To be upscale on a budget almost requires one to be loyal to travel programs from hotels to airlines. Yet, I have met so many people who say, “Oh, I just stay in the convention’s recommended hotel.” “I just picked a flight on Expedia.” They are missing out on a chance to move upscale, while still holding to a budget.

[/et_pb_text][et_pb_image admin_label=”Barcelona Le Meridien” src=”https://journeyswithstephen.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/Barcelona-Le-Meridien.jpg” alt=”Barcelona Le Meridien” title_text=”Barcelona Le Meridien” show_in_lightbox=”off” url_new_window=”off” animation=”off” sticky=”off” align=”left” force_fullwidth=”off” always_center_on_mobile=”on” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid”]
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Personally, I made a decision more than a decade ago to try to stay in Starwood properties whenever possible. They offered plenty of choices across a range of prices, with The Luxury Collection and St. Regis on the top end, then Westin, W, Le Meridien and Sheraton, and specialty brands, like Aloft and Elements. With more than a thousand properties in 100 countries, I could usually find what I was looking for. I first achieved Gold status. Then 50 nights in a year led to Platinum privileges. Finally, 10 years in a row of Platinum earned me Starwood Lifetime Platinum.

[/et_pb_text][et_pb_image admin_label=”Beijing Westin Financial St Hotel front” src=”https://journeyswithstephen.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/Beijing-Westin-Financial-St-Hotel-front.jpg” alt=”Beijing Westin Financial St Hotel front” title_text=”Beijing Westin Financial St Hotel front” show_in_lightbox=”off” url_new_window=”off” animation=”off” sticky=”off” align=”left” force_fullwidth=”off” always_center_on_mobile=”on” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid”]
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So what? Well, for example, as a Platinum member I usually book the cheapest room possible, because I know the hotel will upgrade me, often to a suite. Breakfast is included, as is a 4:00pm checkout. Lots of things that we all hate to pay for are complimentary, such as Internet, bottled water, fitness centers, and club-level rooms. I can even book a room when the hotel is sold out. I earn bonus points, which keeps me playing the game. If I absolutely require a suite, say on a family trip, I am awarded a number of suite nights a year to tap into. The list goes on.

[/et_pb_text][et_pb_image admin_label=”Sheraton Grande pool overhead” src=”https://journeyswithstephen.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/Sheraton-Grande-pool-overhead.jpg” alt=”Sheraton Grande pool overhead” title_text=”Sheraton Grande pool overhead” show_in_lightbox=”off” url_new_window=”off” animation=”off” sticky=”off” align=”left” force_fullwidth=”off” always_center_on_mobile=”on” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid”]
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The Starwood program I refer to got swallowed up in the 2016 acquisition of Starwood Hotels & Resorts by Marriott, and in August, 2018 they finally combined the programs. The result is a lot more properties to choose from, but a lot more people vying for the perks that come with elite membership. There are other good loyalty programs out there, depending on your preference. Just do your research and select the right program for you. Then stay loyal!

[/et_pb_text][et_pb_image admin_label=”Bangkok Grande Sheraton library” src=”https://journeyswithstephen.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/Bangkok-Grande-Sheraton-library.jpg” alt=”Bangkok Grande Sheraton library” title_text=”Bangkok Grande Sheraton library” show_in_lightbox=”off” url_new_window=”off” animation=”off” sticky=”off” align=”left” force_fullwidth=”off” always_center_on_mobile=”on” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid”]
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I plan a trip to Stockholm for the TBEX conference. The closest hotel to the convention center is the Radisson Blu, with a special TBEX rate of about US$200, including tax. I would be tempted to stay there, with the convention just a 5-minute walk from my 24-square meter room. But just 3 minutes further away is a Starwood/Marriott program hotel (Sheraton), where I could probably score a 37-square meter junior suite, buffet breakfast, etc., for the about the same price. Or I could drop the price to US$110, if I wanted to use some points each night (cash and points option) or totally free, if I wanted to cash in more points per night.

[/et_pb_text][et_pb_image admin_label=”Shanghai Le Meridien suite” src=”https://journeyswithstephen.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/Shanghai-Le-Meridien-suite.jpg” alt=”Shanghai Le Meridien suite” title_text=”Shanghai Le Meridien suite” show_in_lightbox=”off” url_new_window=”off” animation=”off” sticky=”off” align=”left” force_fullwidth=”off” always_center_on_mobile=”on” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid”]
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Ah, the points game. It’s not just about using airline miles. If you stay in 10 different hotel chains over the course of a year, you will rack up a scattering of points in each, basically of little value. But if you stayed loyal to the same brand, you may have earned enough points for a free night. The hotel in Bangkok I mentioned at the beginning of this article was the Sheraton Grande Suhkumvit, a Luxury Collection hotel. Besides the 4-room suite, amazing world-class buffet breakfast, and free drinks and food in the Library, I was staying for free (using points).

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Don’t forget the almighty credit card. There is a reason the Starwood Preferred Guest (SPG) American Express card is one of the most popular among frequent travelers. I use this card a lot, especially for hotel stays, and it gives me enough points for about 10-12 free nights every year. Okay, I spend a lot. But if you figure an average upscale room in a major city costs about US$300 per night, including taxes, that Amex card can save me more than US$3,000 a year! Want even more flexibility? I also carry the Chase Sapphire Reserve card, whose elite rewards points can be used for airlines, hotels and more. What’s in your wallet?

You need to figure out what a point is worth to you. In my Stockholm example, to cash in 10K points in lieu of paying about US$200 a night, would make each point worth only 2 cents. The cash and points option is worse; each point is worth about 1.5 cents. I should pay the full rate and save my points for a better deal. I recently spent a weekend at the Westin Miyako Kyoto, Japan, where my room would have cost about US$500 a night. However, I was able to get a suite for just 10K points a night, so each point was worth 5 cents!

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If you travel a lot and follow my advice, you can build up zillions of points to use in select situations, like my Kyoto example. So get out of that cramped room and enjoy suites and other amenities you might be missing out on today!

Coming up I will explain why it pays to be airline loyal too. Subscribe in the box below, and I will let you know when that post is written. And feel free to comment below the box.

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Tag: Kyoto

How to see Kyoto in a weekend