Runaway with Ray & Jay

Runaway with Ray & Jay We’re Rachel Jackson, Ray and Jay. We are a travel loving couple on a journey to share world travels.

03/10/2026

The internet in 2026: “Don’t go anywhere.”

Meanwhile… the world is still full of beautiful places, good people, and flights leaving every day. Travel smart, not scared. ✈️

There are, of course, real events to consider but we’ve seen posts online telling others not to travel to Africa, NZ and the Caribbean.

03/05/2026

Japan flights are getting slightly more expensive starting in 2026 🇯🇵

You’re concerned, right? Don’t be! Most of the posts designed to inspire fear over cost changes are over-hyping the changes. See below for the minimal impact.

Japan currently charges an international **departure tax** when you leave the country. It’s called the “Sayonara Tax” and it’s already included in most airline tickets.

Right now the tax is **¥1,000 (~$7 USD)** per traveler.

But beginning in **July 2026**, Japan plans to increase it to **¥3,000 (~$20 USD)** per person.

You won’t see this as a separate charge when booking flights because it’s usually bundled into the ticket price, but it does mean the overall cost of flights to Japan will tick up slightly.

The increase is meant to help fund tourism infrastructure as Japan deals with record visitor numbers.

Not a dealbreaker, but definitely something to know if you’re planning a trip in 2026. We also recommend looking into other 2026 price changes in Japan to be well informed for your trip.

Save this for your next Japan trip and follow us for more Japan planning tips 🇯🇵

03/03/2026

If you’re going to Japan 🇯🇵 and love Pokémon… this list is non-negotiable.

We’ve visited multiple Pokémon Centers across Japan and here’s how we’d rank them for your trip:

🗼 Tokyo (Mega Tokyo – Ikebukuro)
The biggest selection, exclusive drops, and a full-on sensory overload in the best way possible. If you only visit ONE Pokémon Center, make it this one.

🎎 Kyoto
Smaller, but arguably the most unique. Kimono Pikachu, traditional design touches, and merch that feels culturally special. Perfect if you want something you can’t find anywhere else.

🐙 Osaka DX
Modern layout, great exclusives, and way less chaotic than Tokyo. Easy stop if you’re already exploring Dotonbori.

🌋 Bonus Picks:
Hiroshima (for the Shiny Gyarados fans)
Yokohama (sailor Pikachu + waterfront vibes)

Pro tip: Every location has city-specific exclusives. Don’t assume you’ll find the same items everywhere.

👉 Save this for your Japan itinerary
👉 Comment which Pokémon you’re hunting
👉 Follow for more Japan travel tips you’ll actually use

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