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FESTIVALS

Inside The Downpour At Burning Man

Picture this: You're all set to party at Burning Man 2023 in the Nevada desert, but instead of a wild, dusty adventure, you find yourself ankle-deep in mud! The festival kicked off on August 27 with its usual fanfare, but by September 1, attendees were in for a 'Mudding Man' surprise.

This year's event started on August 27, but as of September 1, attendees were grappling with the challenges brought on by Mother Nature. The unexpected rain turned the festival grounds into a muddy mess, making it nearly impossible for vehicles to traverse the area.

Access to and from Black Rock City, the event's site, was closed "for the remainder of the event," organizers said in a statement on social media.

• ❝Rain over the last 24 hours has created a situation that required a full stop of vehicle movement on the playa,❞ the U.S. Bureau of Land Management, the agency that manages the land on which the event takes place, said in a statement.

• ❝More rain is expected over the next few days and conditions are not expected to improve enough to allow vehicles to enter the playa,❞

Over half an inch of rainfall wreaked havoc at Black Rock City overnight as per Organizers.

This unexpected weather challenge added to the already complicated logistics of an event that typically draws over 60,000 participants from far and wide to northwest Nevada.

According to local media, this year's turnout exceeded expectations, with more than 70,000 "burners" converging on the temporary desert city.

Also, it seems like even celebs are not immune to the quirks of Burning Man! In a hilarious twist of fate, DJ Diplo and comedian Chris Rock found themselves making a grand exit from the muddy mayhem of the festival on the back of a pickup truck.

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PARADISE MEMEING

JOMO

Many people on social media are sharing how happy they feel about not going to the festival this year or in the future. They call it "JOMO," which stands for the Joy of Missing Out.

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RECOMMENDED READING

🧳 The Best of Travel & Culture in Asia 🗺️

Discover a curated list of the best of things in Asia. Here's what to expect in each issue:

📸 Powerful photography to ignite your wanderlust

📖 An interesting article to pique your curiosity

🎧 New music to immerse yourself in

😋 Mouth-watering recipes

Whether you're a traveler, a foodie, a music enthusiast, or simply curious about Asia, I highly recommend you to check out The Trunk Jotter.

New issues straight to your inbox, every Monday, Wednesday, & Friday.

THE TOP STORIES
Happening
Your Weekly Travel Roundup about the best of travels

Warnings

1. Avoid your travel disruptions, check all the Sep-Oct travel strikes for flights & train for England, Italy, France, Paris.

2. A beachgoer from France found himself in hot water, got arrested & fined of up to €3,000 after police found 41kg of pebbles from beach in Sardinia in the boot of his car while trying to board a ferry.

3. In a recent development, EU judges made a decision that's good news for American tourists. They rejected the imposition of visas for U.S. travelers visiting Europe. This decision ensures that American tourists can continue to enjoy visa-free travel within the European Union, making it easier for them to explore the continent.

Attractions

🥞 Breakfast with Koalas - Back due to popular demand, after a 3-year, covid-enforced hiatus, WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo is bringing back its iconic Koala Breakfast. It's not every day you get to share your morning coffee with a koala, & have a "koala-ty" breakfast experience, (sorry, had to) you can have a guided tour of the zoo where you'll encounter Australia's finest, from Princess the cassowary to Tasmanian devils, kangaroos, wallabies, and a fascinating array of snakes, lizards, and even three freshwater crocs; and to top it all off, feast on a scrumptious buffet breakfast at the revamped Koala Rooftop. Head over to the zoo for a wild start to your day!
Runs on Fri, Sat and Sun, from 7:15am – 9:00am.

😱 Step into horror - With 10 immersive haunted houses & 5scare zones, Halloween Horror Nights, at Universal Orlando Resort's promises spine-tingling thrills at every turn. You can also catch live shows, explore the all-new Tribute Store, and savor horror themed food and beverages that'll make your taste buds scream. Step into the supernatural with "Stranger Things 4," where you'll encounter demogorgons, demobats, and even Vecna himself in his blood-red Mind Lair. Feel the chills of "The Exorcist: Believer," inspired by Universal Pictures' latest horror film. Dive into the post-pandemic world of "The Last of Us," based on the award-winning video game. And beware of "Chucky: Ultimate Kill Count," where Chucky is on a mission to eliminate anyone who dares to enter.
Grab your friends scradey friends as it runs from Sep 1 - Nov 4, 2023.

🤿 Dive Underwater Park - 31 new sculptures were added to the Underwater Sculpture Park by The Grenada Tourism Authority. Picture this: you're snorkeling or diving, and suddenly, you stumble upon a hidden treasure trove of sculptures beneath the waves. These sculptures are more than just eye candy; they're part of a mission to preserve marine life while celebrating art and culture. And if you're eager to see their art skills before the sculptures take the plunge, head to Prickly Bay Marina - it's like an above-sea sneak peek until October 2023!

Deals

• Tickets For New Train Service To The French Alps, started on thu at just $99.

• Get Paid $1,500 To Fly First Class, & Upgrade Your Next Flight.

• Earn $80,000 Points on $199 Southwest Business Card.

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📰 Read

• No more queuing at the border: Finland tests digital passports in world first

👁️‍🗨️ Watch

 • September's Night Sky Will Bring Planet Sightings, a Supermoon, and More.

😲 React

 • Austria offers free rail travel if you get a tattoo.

MY TRAVEL BUCKETLIST

Your Passport To A Sensory Safari

📍 Tokyo, 🇯🇵 Japan

Over 7,000 Excellent Tripadvisor Reviews | See 360 degree video

Thanks to a complete border reopening, Japan saw a staggering increase in visitors in 2022, with an estimated 3.83 million arrivals, a stark contrast to the 245,900 recorded in 2021, marking over a 15-fold surge in tourism. With a rich history, a culinary scene renowned worldwide, and cutting-edge technology that seems right out of science fiction, Tokyo is your gateway to a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

Get ready to dive into a fascinating urban realm that boasts the world's most Michelin-starred restaurants, a meticulously punctual public transportation system, and a unique blend of ancient temples and futuristic skyscrapers. Tokyo is an adventure waiting to unfold, and you're about to embark on an unforgettable journey through its captivating streets and hidden treasures.

🕹️ Explore Akihabara's Electric Wonderland: Dive into the vibrant world of anime, manga, and electronics. You can shop for cool gadgets, visit themed cafes, and immerse yourself in Japan's pop culture.

🍣 Sushi Feast at Tsukiji Outer Market: Satisfy your sushi cravings at the Tsukiji Outer Market. Try fresh sushi and sashimi, and don't miss the famed tuna auctions at the inner market if you're an early riser.

🤖 Odaiba's Futuristic Attractions: Visit Odaiba for futuristic entertainment, including the TeamLab Borderless digital art museum, life-sized Gundam statue, and the scenic Rainbow Bridge.

🤼 Sumo Wrestling: If you're lucky enough to be in town during a tournament, grab a ticket and witness Japan's traditional sport in action.

😸 Visit the Ghibli Museum: If you're a fan of Studio Ghibli films, this museum in Mitaka is a must-visit. It's filled with enchanting exhibits and exclusive Ghibli merchandise.

🗼 Climb Tokyo Tower: Head to Tokyo Tower for panoramic views of the city. It's particularly stunning at sunset when the city lights up.

🌸 Cherry Blossom Viewing: If you visit during spring, don't miss the chance to have a hanami (cherry blossom viewing) picnic in one of Tokyo's parks.

⛩️ Stroll Through Sensō-ji Temple: This ancient Buddhist temple in Asakusa is Tokyo's oldest and a must-visit. Explore the Nakamise shopping street leading up to it and take in the serene atmosphere.

Here are 2 other destinations that complement the Tokyo experience:

• Kyoto, Japan - The Serene Counterpart

  Just a few hours away from Tokyo by bullet train, Kyoto stands as a serene counterpart to Tokyo's urban dynamism. With its stunning temples, traditional tea ceremonies, and beautifully landscaped gardens, Kyoto offers a glimpse into Japan's history and traditions. Stroll through the iconic Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, explore the historic streets of Gion, and experience the tranquility of Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion.

• Nikko, Japan - Nature's Retreat

  Nestled in the picturesque mountains just a couple of hours north of Tokyo, Nikko provides a refreshing escape into nature. This UNESCO World Heritage-listed town is known for its lush forests, serene lakes, and ornate shrines. The Toshogu Shrine, adorned with intricate wood carvings and vibrant colors, is a masterpiece that shouldn't be missed. Nikko also boasts the tranquil Lake Chuzenji, perfect for a boat ride or lakeside stroll.

Your itinerary could look something like this:

✔️ Day 1-3: Tokyo ( Akihabara, Sumo wrestling, Ghibli Museum etc.)

✔️ Day 4-6: Kyoto ( Temples, gardens, Arashiyama Bamboo Grove etc.)

✔️ Day 7-9: Nikko ( Toshogu Shrine, Lake Chuzenji, etc.)

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EASE YOUR TRAVELS

When Exploring Tokyo..

🙏 Respect Local Customs: Tokyoites take their customs seriously. Always bow as a sign of respect, remove your shoes when entering someone's home or traditional establishments, and avoid loud conversations in public.

🔰 Learn Basic Japanese Phrases: Even though many Tokyoites speak some English, a few basic Japanese phrases can go a long way in enhancing your experience and showing respect to the locals.

💳 IC Cards Are Your Best Friend: Invest in an IC card like Suica or Pasmo for seamless travel on Tokyo's extensive public transportation system. You can use these cards on trains, buses, and even for purchases at convenience stores. If you plan to explore beyond Tokyo, consider a Japan Rail Pass. It provides unlimited travel on Japan Railways (JR) lines, including the Shinkansen (bullet train).

🥫 Use Vending Machines for Snacks: Tokyo is dotted with vending machines that dispense hot and cold beverages, snacks, and even hot meals. It's a convenient way to grab a quick bite or drink on the go.

🤑 Tax-Free Shopping: Look for stores displaying a "Tax-Free" sign. Many offer tax refunds to tourists, so keep your passport handy for verification.

Want to add your own tips in here ?

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TRAVEL & BEYOND
Staying Connected with the world beyond your travels..

1. Kylie Jenner PDA-Filled Outing With Timothée Chalamet Makes Headlines.

2. Teenager Dies After Trying “One Chip Challenge”.

3. Tropical Storm Lee: About To Become Major Hurricane Says Forecast.

4. Great Wall Of China Gets Damaged As Construction Workers Dig Shortcut.

5. Ex-Proud Boys Leader Gets Jailed, In Connection To Jan. 6.

GUESS THE PLACE

Tokyo is the biggest city in the world. What is the 2nd biggest city in terms of population ?

- E - - I

Last week’s answer to:
Which country has the highest expats population.

• Emirates or United Arab Emirates. 55.01% of the population is comprised of expatriates (around 936,100 people).

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