Someone asked me this very important question the other day, “what shopping did you do in Japan?” And two things came to mind. 1) boy, oh boy, did we shop2) that would be a great blog post and social posts because I watched a lot of YouTube videos about shopping and saved posts on Instagram. […]
Category: International Vacations
Japan Food Guide: What to Eat in Tokyo, Kawaguchi, Kyoto, & Osaka
By Mercedes Santana on April 7, 2026They say you haven’t truly experienced Japan until you’ve eaten your way through it—and after 10 days of exploring neon-lit alleys and quiet mountain towns, I officially agree. This guide is a curated look at everywhere we ate during our recent trip, from the best ramen in Shinjuku (which literally saved my soul after a rough flight) to the savory Okonomiyaki in Osaka’s Dotonbori district.
Whether you’re looking for the most vibrant matcha in Asakusa, hearty Hoto noodles by Mt. Fuji, or just need a few IBS-friendly travel tips for navigating the world of Konbini snacks and DisneySea treats, I’ve got you covered. This isn’t just a list of restaurants; it’s a personal ‘where we ate’ guide to help you navigate the ‘Kitchen of Japan’ with confidence. Pack your appetite (and your passport for that tax-free shopping!)—we’re heading to Japan.
Passport to Japan: A 10-Day Guide to Tokyo, Kawaguchi, Kyoto, and Osaka
By Mercedes Santana on February 3, 2026Join Passports and Papers to navigate Tokyo’s neon streets, Mt. Fuji in Kawaguchi, Kyoto’s shrines, and Osaka’s famous food scene. Start your Japan adventure!
Spain Food Guide: Barcelona, Mallorca, Seville, Madrid
By Mercedes Santana on February 14, 2025A Taste of Spain: Tapas, Sangria, and Coastal Dreams When I think about our trip to Spain, the food lingers in my memory — rich, flavorful, and an experience all its own. From bustling tapas bars to seaside dinners, every meal felt like a celebration of the moment. We fell in love with the simplicity […]
Our Impromptu October Trip to Spain Well, I wasn’t expecting a trip to Spain, but my job not only sent me to France this year, it also sent me to Spain for a company offsite. I know — what a cool job. It’s the best, but I couldn’t go to Spain and not tack on […]
I can’t believe I am saying this, but I went on my fifth trip to Paris this summer! This time, it was to work on a project for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, what a whirlwind. I came to the realization that it was time for a true Paris roundup with all my favorite recommendations […]
Hola, food lovers! Ready to go on a tantalizing photo tour through Peru’s vibrant culinary landscape? From the bustling markets of Lima to the high-altitude kitchens of Cusco, Peru is a paradise for food enthusiasts. Each bite tells a story of ancient traditions and diverse influences, creating a unique fusion that’s bound to captivate your […]
From the mystical ruins of Machu Picchu to the bustling streets of Lima, here’s our nine day guide to Peru:
Passport to Paris | Food Edition
By Mercedes Santana on September 5, 2023Paris holds a special place in our hearts, and we’ve been fortunate enough to visit the City of Lights on multiple occasions. The reason behind our frequent trips is rooted in the fact that Henri’s grandparents live there, making it a magnet that pulls us back every few years. This particular visit held extra significance […]
Moorea Food Guide (with photos!)
By Mercedes Santana on January 24, 2023We’re back with another food guide, this time on the island of Moorea in French Polynesia! I love sharing food recommendations with anyone willing to take them. And I consider cuisine a major part of my pre-vacation research! I knew this trip would be slightly different in the food department because our Costco package came […]
