Angela & Alan: Van Life & Hidden UK Beaches

Angela and Alan's travels in Kyoto began with a classic twist of spontaneity, proving that sometimes the best experiences come from the unexpected. From getting lost without internet access to discovering the hidden gems of Kyoto, their journey embodies the spirit of adventure for the middle-aged and budget-conscious traveler.

Starting off with no data, no map, and no clear direction, they stumbled upon a plush, burgundy train that whisked them away to their first destination: Arashiyama. Their goal was to explore the famous Monkey Park and the iconic Bamboo Forest, two of Kyoto's must-see attractions.

Arashiyama Monkey Park:

At the Monkey Park, they encountered a challenging trek—a steep 20-minute climb that might be difficult for those with mobility issues. The park charges an entry fee of 600 yen, cash only, and offers visitors a chance to see monkeys in their natural habitat, sans the hot springs found in northern Japan. Angela described the experience as "amazing views" over Kyoto, though the journey to the top is quite strenuous. She humorously noted the local wildlife, particularly the large bees, adding a touch of lightheartedness to their challenging hike.

Bamboo Forest:

Next, they ventured to the Bamboo Forest, a place Angela had long wanted to visit. True to popular tourist sites, they found it crowded, with queues of people slowly moving through the serene paths. The couple shared a tip for those looking to capture the perfect Instagram shot: hiring a rickshaw driver to navigate the less crowded paths and snap photos.

Their day continued with unexpected discoveries, like stumbling upon a beautiful garden and temple on their way back to the station, again finding themselves amidst crowds but enjoying the beauty around them.