I had my first international trip in 2006 to Beijing, China. Although Beijing was unquestionably a beautiful place, the whole experience was pretty hilarious and disappointing. Travelling with a group tour; I would say is not my preference. A lot of times you were given limited duration to visit your favorite places in the itinerary. You must rush according to the schedule. What a let down for me who love to take my own sweet time enjoying the moment and marveling at the breathtaking sights which I doubt I would have the time and opportunity to visit countless of time.

Due to that, I swore I would never travel with a group tour. I simply detest it. Mainly because the lack of flexibility on my itinerary. Of course it has its own downside especially the budget. Traveling by yourself needs thorough planning which cracks your brain sometimes and you need courage. Or is it just plain stupidity on my part? Hehehe..

I bought flight ticket once at MATTA FAIR for Japan on 2006 and the other at 2007.  The first time the ticket price was at RM899 for a return flight but I was not aware of the requirement for VISA application. You need to have at least 10,000 MYR in your saving account, have native Japanese friends or friends working in Japan and a company’s official letter stating that you’re still working in Malaysia. Why the VISA requirement is so tedious?

Hmm..according to my knowledge, this is to curb some illegal working activities by Malaysians who refuse to return to Malaysia once they reach Japan. Why? Because of yen’s high value. Because of THEM, we have to go through this mind boggling and heart wrenching process.

I applied VISA for three times. 2 times was rejected and the third was approved on the day my flight was due. It was approved around 0200 hours and my flight was duel at 233o hours. Pheww..that was close. The moment I received that precious call from Japanese Embassy for my VISA approval, I broke down and cried for a good few minutes. Finally, I could go to JAPAN!!!

How much money I used? In 2007, 100 yen was about MYR 3.10. Now is close to MYR4.00. A subway ride was at least 120 yen but now is 160 yen. It is harder now. I saved up to almost RM8,000 and used most of it for transportation. I would say close to 60%.

That will not hinder me to once again make a silly plan for Japan. Mattete~