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We independently  select these travel products—if you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. All prices were accurate at the time of publishing. Welcome to my home away from home - New Orleans! As a woman who is from the Big Easy, the city has a special place in my heart marking some of my earliest and fondest memories. It's my favorite U.S. city most known for Mardi Gras, but it represents so much more than that. The Crescent city reflects a rich history of cultures coming together to create a unique and vibrant space and world-renowned experience. From the music scene to the Cajun/Creole cuisine to the dynamic nightlight to the spirit and voices of the people. I could go on and on...but New Orleans is unlike any city and is an absolute must visit! For our recent visit, we stayed at the voco St. James Hotel , an IHG hotel located in the Central Business District on Magazine Street. It's close to everything you'd want to be close to - shopping, restaurants, sights, and neighborhoods like the historic French Quarter and the Garden District. You'll definitely want to walk through and explore all those neighborhoods. Not that you’d want to leave the hotel, as there's so many places to get comfortable and relax on this property, you would almost have to pull yourself away. voco means ‘to invite’ and ‘call together’ originating from Latin, representing the brand’s thoughtful and playful nature, and ability to offer meaningful connection. voco hotels are designed to stand out from the crowd. As one of IHG® Hotels & Resorts’ newest hotel brands, voco hotels combine the reassurance of a big brand with the informality and charm of a boutique hotel with small touches like the sweet treat upon arrival and their signature mascots the Finch, Owl, and Flamingo that define each space and enhance your stay. Before I talk about the rooms, I'll give you a quick rundown of some of the property highlights: There is one restaurant connected to the property. The Chophouse New Orleans, which was named the highest rated steakhouse in the city offering an upscale setting with live music nightly. There is one bar located inside of the hotel that has a food menu with small bites including options for guests with dietary restrictions. The outdoor pool and courtyard are relaxing hideaways offering a calm setting and cozy atmosphere in the middle of the bustling city. But above all of that - let's get to where you'll be spending the most time, and that's your room or suite. There are three major room categories. We stayed in the King Bed Suite. It had more than enough space for us to spread out, the fusion of New Orleans style with a French flair, and additional privacy as our suite had direct access to the pool terrace. But fear not, you don't have to be in the suite to experience everything this hotel has to offer. The rooms offer expansive views from your window or balcony and spacious bathrooms with luxe body products. You can definitely tell that every detail was well considered for all guests. Last but certainly not least, book your stay at voco St. James Hotel New Orleans ( here )  and be sure to join the IHG One Rewards program for lower rates and exclusive benefits.

We independently select these travel products—if you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. All prices were accurate at the time of publishing. If you're reading part 3 that means I didn't lose you with parts 1 and 2. And hopefully, you're well on your way with planning your trip to Tokyo. Here's a quick recap of what we've covered thus far in part 1 and part 2: How to Get Around Tokyo, Japan: Flight Airport experience Transportation from Airport to Hotel Getting Around Tokyo Ultimate Tokyo, Japan Travel Guide: Planning out your itinerary My itinerary is especially helpful for those with a limited amount of time or you want a plan of action that is time efficient. For this trip, I used a different layout to organize my days that helped me reclaim my time. Read More: First Timer's Ultimate Travel Guide to Tokyo We've covered a lot of information around transportation and itinerary organization. In part 3, we'll take a deeper dive into my itinerary. I will highlight the top 14 best things to do in Tokyo, Japan. In addition to activities that I didn't get to during my trip and look forward to doing next time. Lastly, I share some tips for navigating the language barrier. TOP 14 BEST THINGS TO DO IN TOKYO JAPAN 1. Shibuya Crossing Shibuya Crossing is an iconic intersection in Shibuya, Tokyo. The “scramble crossing” is famous for being one of the busiest crosswalks in the world. There is so much energy as advertisements flash across the many television screens and people pour in from all directions. Trust me, the Shibuya Scramble makes an intersection in NYC look like the first cup in a Mario Kart game. Lol! Be sure to visit the Starbucks located across from Shibuya Station. Once there, grab a drink and watch all the madness from above. Shibuya is great for shopping and nightlife. Fun fact: My favorite movie franchise filmed scenes at this popular location. If you guessed Fast and Furious, you would be correct! 2. Nakamise Street Nakamise is a famous shopping street and one of the oldest located in Asakusa. Since this street is on the property of Sensoji Temple , it starts and ends with a temple gate. I thought this was a great area to buy souvenirs. I definitely feel like I got more bang for my buck. I tried shopping at Don Quijote and it wasn't my cup of tea. The store was tiny (by American standards) and the souvenirs seemed generic and cheap. Lastly, it's highly recommended that you try out an eatery on the street. I'll just say, I hope you have better luck than I did. 3. Mario Kart Experience The Mario Kart experience hands down landed in my top 5 experiences. I opted to book with Tokyo Bay Street Kart . There are cheaper options available through Viator and Get Your Guide . At the time of our trip, I felt like those companies didn't have routes that included popular landmarks, which in my opinion is why they're cheaper. They have more options available now. I booked the experience a few days in advance via Facebook Messenger. Tokyo Bay Street Kart does offer a discount if your promise to leave a review. There are several route options available. I chose the K-L course, which was the perfect amount of time. I ended up wearing a DIY Princess Peach costume. They do provide costumes, but due to licensing restrictions, they don't provide any Mario trademarked characters or costumes. They did ask me to sign a waiver saying I brought my own costume and that it was not provided by the company. I recommend bringing your own action camera to capture moments. I think you can rent one, but if you it's worth the investment to purchase your own. It is illegal to have your phone out while operating the go-cart. The last detail to note, which is the most important is regarding your international driving permit. You are required to have one for this activity. There are exceptions / people who can use other forms of ID to participate. Learn More: How to Apply for an International Driving Permit 4. Shrines / Temples (Free) In my opinion, visiting shrines and temples were a great way to learn about the history and culture of Japan, as well as the different religious practices and rituals. In addition, there are a variety of activities happening throughout the year on the grounds of the shrines and temples. There are thousands throughout Japan. I didn't pay to get into any of the temples or shrines that I visited. However, you can offer monetary support by participating in the on-site activities, making a small donation, or buying a trinket/souvenir. 5. Food / Drinks Try everything! The food and drinks overall were reasonably priced. My absolute favorite place to eat ramen was at Tokyo Tonkotsu Ramen Bakara located in the Shinjuku ward. My last night in Tokyo, I splurged dining out at a Wagyu Beef Restaurant. It was incredible! Don't sleep on the offerings at 7-11 either. It's not America's 7-11. I drink sake everyday both hot and cold depending on the vibe. I loved the vending machines!! There are vending machines at many ramen restaurants. They are also located throughout the streets of Tokyo, which makes it very convenient to grab a bottle of water, soda, or a snack while on the go. Beware of "all inclusive" eateries. Some of these locations have been known to take advantage of tourists by adding hidden fees to the bill. Always ask questions before sitting down to eat or drink. 6. Rainbow Bridge (Free) The Rainbow Bridge was such a vibe and it is free to visit. I did not visit the bridge by foot. I chose the Mario Kart experience that included this attraction as part of the route. It was so dope to experience the bridge that way. I'm not sure if I would have felt the same visiting on foot. 7. Tokyo Tower Same as above. I saw the Tokyo Tower during the Mario Kart experience. I do wish we would have had time to visit this attraction by foot. It resembles the Eiffel Tower and is a very popular attraction. 8. Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building (Free) The Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building has an observation deck on the 45th floor with panoramic views of the city. It's free to enter. Plus, it's a great place to snap some photos. There was a pianist playing during my visit. 9. Kabukicho Kabukicho is the entertainment and Red Light District in Shinjuku. Beware of women trying to solicit adult activities. This area and the surrounding area comes to life on the weekend with locals pouring in after completing the work week. Aside from that, it truly is a fun area to hang out. Check out some of the tours and activities on Get Your Guide . 10. Golden Gai I visited Golden Gai during the day. I didn't try to get in at night, however, I read some of the bars in the area charge tourists a cover. In addition to only allowing regulars to enter. Since my visit was short, I opted to go somewhere that I knew I could get into without paying a cover. 11. Memory Lane Memory Lane aka Piss Alley located in Shinjuku boasts a lot of small bars with great food and drinks. Go at night, take lots of pictures, and don't be afraid to interact with the locals. The area is steeped in history. 12. Nightlife The nightlife in Tokyo is insane. Most bars open in the late afternoon and stay open until dawn. I stayed in Shinjuku, but Shibuya, Ginza, and Roppongi are also noted as some of the best nightlife districts. I ended up only partying in only Shinjuku due to transportation restrictions. The trains stop running around midnight. I didn't want to get stuck in another ward. Since taxis can be expensive, most folks just party until the trains start running again around 5am. I definitely want to experience a night out like this, but I was on limited time. I couldn't play those reindeer games. Check out Get Your Guide for bar hopping and sake drinking tours, karaoke, and so much more! 13. Tokyo Free Guide (Free・ish) This was so clutch! Tokyo Free Guide provides full day or half day guided tours in Tokyo. I kind of did a full day, I just chose to start around 10am instead of starting earlier. There is not a guiding fee for this volunteer service. You will only pay for the cost associated with the activities for the day. For my boyfriend, the guide, and myself, we spent approximately $60 for train fare, lunch, etc. The guide was phenomenal! You can book within two months of your trip. I did cut it close, but was still able to secure a guide. Part of your booking includes selecting attractions and areas you would like to visit. I chose places I thought would be harder for us to navigate to on my own. The guide will meet you in your hotel lobby and bring you back at the end of the day. 14. 7-Eleven There is a 7-Eleven on almost every corner in Tokyo. You have to try the food offerings. If I have to compare it to something, it's almost like shopping the hot food sections and stations at Wholefoods. The offerings are like nothing at an American 7-Eleven. They are opened 24 hours. If you need cash, they have ATMs. This reminds me - many restaurants don't accept American credit or debit cards. Be sure to carry cash or ask ahead. ACTIVITIES / PLACES FOR NEXT TIME The above list barely scratches the surface of things to do in Tokyo, but it's a great starting point. There are somethings I wish I could have done while visiting, but due to time restraints and availability, I couldn't do everything. Here are some activities and places on my list for next time: Visit Department Stores 11 Best Department Stores in Tokyo Tokyo Sky Tree Sumo Experience Ueno Park Dinner Cruise Kimono Rental Eat at a Michelin Star restaurant NAVIGATING THE LANGUAGE BARRIER In order to navigate the language barrier, I downloaded Google Lens . This app translates menus, signs, etc. In addition I took screenshots of the storefronts and restaurants to use as a reference. I did this because the name could be listed in English on Yelp or Google, however, the name might not be in English at the actual location of the business. It might be in Japanese. So having a picture of the storefront to use as a reference is super helpful. Google Translate was helpful for learning words to get around and to place orders at restaurants. If you're like me and always have a complicated order, this is the way to go. I also did a lot of pointing. Now, this can be considered rude, but I think they understood my heart was in the right place. You're so ready now! We've covered transportation, itinerary assistance, and the top activities and places to visit during your trip. If you notice, I tried my best to indicate which activities were free. I hope you feel empowered to plan your trip! Drop any questions you have in the comments.

I hope I was able to start easing the emotional rollercoaster that you may be experiencing from planning your trip to Tokyo, Japan. To recap, in How to Get Around Tokyo, Japan , I covered the following: Flight Airport experience Transportation from Airport to Hotel Getting Around Tokyo Now that you’ve mastered transportation, I’ll walk you through how I planned to make the most of this trip with my Tokyo travel guide for first timers. Location of Picture: Shibuya Crossing We independently  select these travel products—if you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. All prices were accurate at the time of publishing. I was in Tokyo for six (6) days. This may feel like a lot of time. It really wasn't with all there is to see and do in Tokyo and throughout Japan. I initially planned on traveling outside of Tokyo, but quickly abandoned those efforts because I realized: I wouldn't have adequate time to explore Tokyo in addition to other cities It added a layer of stress I wasn't prepared to handle. Next time, I'll stay for a least two weeks to ensure I'm able to travel additional cities. Location of Picture: Unknown Typically, when I create an itinerary for a trip, I plan the destinations to be visited by date and when possible, I include time as well. I totally abandoned that process this go round. Here's what I did this time: First, I researched Tokyo compiling a list of destinations to be visited and things to do. Next, I looked up the ward (area) the destinations and things to do were located. Then, I started to construct my itinerary by ward instead of by day or time. Why? It dawned on me that in order to make the most of my six (6) days I needed a better plan. My new plan of action allowed me to see more during my stay. It also cut down the time spent commuting back and forth or revisiting wards to see something I could've saw during my first visit. I was able to check a ward off my list and set my sight on another ward to explore the next day. Read More: How to Get Around Tokyo Please be advised, it was not as seamless as it seems! There were days I ran out of steam and didn't get to see everything on my list. This meant I had prioritize the activities/experiences that were important. If I had a chance to do more, great, but at least I got to experience the things that were at the top of my list. Location of Picture: Metropolitan Government Building Location of Picture: Metropolitan Government Building Location of Picture: Metropolitan Government Building Essential Tips from My Tokyo Travel Guide for First Timers Shinijuku Station (Similar to Times Square) Robot Restaurant (skip the food - permanently closed) Takashimaya Shinijuku - Department Store Food Basement Isetan Shinijuku - Department Store Food Basement Memory Lane aka Piss Alley 7-11 Convenient Store (ATMs available) Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building (free way to see views, open til 11pm) Kabukicho District aka Red Light District Golden Gai - Famous bar area Don Quijote (open 24 hours – souvenir shop) Location of Picture: Kabukicho (aka Red Light District) Kanda Station Sensoji Temple (Asakusa) Location of Picture: Sensoji Temple Location of Picture: Sensoji Temple Shibuya Station Shibuya Crossing (iconic sight / busiest pedestrian crossing) Party in Shibuya (all night experience) Karaoke Kan Bellovisto, Cerulean Tower Tokyu Hotel Womb – Nightclub Don Quijote (open 24 hours – souvenir shop) Bar Ishinohana – Cocktail Claudia won competition in 2005 Location of Picture: Shibuya Crossing Location of Picture: Don Quijote Tamachi Station Rainbow Bridge (Minato City) (connects Tokyo to Odaiba / Great for photos) Location of Picture: Rainbow Bridge Shinagawa Station Mario Kart Experience We booked through Tokyo Bay Street Kart There are cheaper options available through Viator  and Get Your Guide Tokyo Skytree (Tallest building in Japan/2nd in the world, open until 10pm) Yakatabune Harumiya Cruise (6pm, $100D, email two days in advance to book) Togoshi Ginza Shopping District (Longest shopping street in Tokyo) Hamamatsucho Tokyo Tower (Eiffel Tower in Paris) Location of Picture: In front of Tokyo Tower Akihabara Station Electric Town, Akihabara (shops devoted to anime and manga) Ebisu Station Yebisu Garden Place (Blue Cavern – wonderland of twinkling lights) Tokyo Station Eat on Nakamise Street Omotenashi Nihonbashi (reserve by 5p day before, start by 3p, end by 6p) Kimono fitting $45USD / Geisha Dance $45USD Location of Picture: Nakamise Street Location of Picture: Nakamise Street Location of Picture: Nakamise Street ADDITIONAL THINGS TO DO Photoshoot 1 Hour Private Photoshoot in Tokyo Free Tour guide Check out Tokyo Free Guide - a volunteer service offering free tours (Book in advance) Cooking Class Sushi Making Experience in Asakusa Ramen and Gyoza Cooking Class Small-Group Wagyu Beef and 7 Japanese Dishes Cooking Class Local Hosts | Food Tour, Cooking Class, or Dinner Michelin Restaurants (Tokyo has the most Michelin-starred restaurants in the world) Hotel Accommodations Shinjuku Prince Hotel Transportation Options from Narita Airport Transport Approx Cost Travel Time Frequency Keisei Skyliner High-Speed Train From US$15* 1 hr Every 15-20 mins JR Narita Express  Train US$19.61*  1 hr Every hour Keisei Main Line  Train US$8.00* 95 mins Every 15-20 mins Narita Airport Limousine Bus US$23.00* 90-120 mins Every 15-20 mins Regular Taxi (Grab outside of terminal) From US$174* 90 mins Generally available outside of the airport Pre-booked Shared Taxi From US$56.00*  1 hr Pre-book Private Transfe r Service US$146.00* 1 hour Pre-book * All of the details above were calculated on travel to Tokyo Station. Exact fares, times, and transfers will vary depending on your destination. For more information on transportation options to/from Narita International Airport or Haneda Airport, click here. Transportation – Local Japan Rail Pass | 7, 14, 0r 21 Day Pass Learn more about the Japan Rail Pass here. Read about the most important train line in Tokyo - JR Yamanote Line, which connects Tokyo's major city centers here . Tokyo Metro Pass | 24-hour, 48-hour, or 72-hour Ticket Not only did I run out of steam, two other things led me rearrange the things we did during our trip: the free tour guide and Mario Kart experience. Remember when I shared in part 1 I was anxious to ride the train? This led me to select options for the tour guide that I thought would be harder to commute to using public transportation. In addition, the Mario Kart experience was preset route (there were three (3) route options available). So I changed our game plan to account for what we saw during the Mario Kart experience and with the free tour guide. I did eventually ride the subway. I was told it was quite difficult to navigate. So I tried my hardest to find ways around having to ride it. Well, I ended up riding it and I'm happy to report that it wasn't challenging to navigate at all! It's similar to any city with subway lines. In part 3 of this guide, I will take a deeper dive into my itinerary by highlighting the top 14 things to do in Tokyo. I'll also share a few activities that were on my list, but due to time limitations and/or availability, I wasn't able to do. There's always next time! Lastly, I'll share some tips for navigating the language barrier. Ready?! Read Best Things to Do in Tokyo, Japan here .

The thought of planning a trip to Tokyo delivered a host of emotions from excitement to fear to feeling completely overwhelmed. One, I had never visited any country on the Asian continent. I must admit there was this fear of doing something wrong that would land me in jail. Extra, I know! Two, I had never been on a flight that long. This caused me a lot of anxiety because I wasn't sure what to carry on the plane to ensure I was as comfortable and content as possible. And three, I was traveling to Tokyo for Christmas....Holy shit! I had never done Christmas out of the country. Let alone apart from my family and friends. When I tell you I put myself through those emotions for nothing, I truly mean it. Traveling to Tokyo, navigating how to get around Tokyo, and everything else was easier than I expected. We independently  select these travel products—if you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. All prices were accurate at the time of publishing. So here's what you need to do - take a deep breath! I'm here to guide you through it. If you're planning a trip to Tokyo, Japan, here's everything you need to know. FLIGHT For reference, I flew out of Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) located in Newark, NJ. EWR offers to routes to get to Tokyo: Narita International Airport (NRT) and Haneda Airport (HND. Here's what's important to note (or rather the pros and cons in choosing which airport to fly into): Narita International Airport (NRT) Non-stop flight via United Airlines (approximately 14 hours) Further from the Greater Tokyo Area Cheaper flight fares Haneda Airport (HND) Non-stop flight options were not available (1+ stops) Close to the Greater Tokyo Area More expensive flight fares I decided to fly into NRT because I prefer non-stop flights. I understood this meant that I would have more leg work once I landed, however, I've had bad experiences with connections - so I didn't want to risk any delays or missing a connection flight due to weather, having to go through a customs check point, etc. These factors would be beyond my control. I would rather reach my final destination and figure out local/ground transportation from there. With that said, I flew ERW to NRT via United Airlines. Since the flight was longer, I decided to pay to upgrade to Economy Plus seating. To prepare for the flight, I made sure to properly pack my personal sized bag (I also carried on my bag). Inside my personal bag I packed the following: Pillow Blanket Compression Socks Hot Food / Snacks (Just in case I didn't like the food selections) Face Mask Eye Mask iPad (downloaded movies/shows) Noise Canceling Headphones (Not Exact) Travel Utensils Toiletries (deodorant, lotion, wipes, soap, small hand towel) Cleaning Supplies (sanitizer, disinfectant wipes) These things definitely made the flight more enjoyable for me. Although, not all of it was needed as the airline provided more amenities since it was a long international flight like: Pillow Blanket Dinner, Breakfast, Snacks Water, Soft Drinks Complimentary Beer & Wine Learn more about complimentary dining and alcoholic beverages on long-haul international flights here . For me, it's about preference. Using my own blanket and pillow made me feel more comfortable, but was not necessary. Also, did y'all catch beer and wine were complimentary? On long-haul, international flights to/from Asia, Europe, the Middle East, the South Pacific, and select destinations in Latin America, United offers these services. This includes Basic Economy fares. Lastly, I used my United points to purchase Wi-Fi. I don't have a credit card with United. These points were from signing up for United MileagePlus Program . Each time I book a flight, I get points. AIRPORT EXPERIENCE The airport was easy to navigate. We filled out the required paperwork (standard if you've traveled internationally). Now, I did get selected for a "random search" before exiting customs, but it only took five minutes. I'm pretty sure they were looking for drugs, but all I had were snacks on snacks on snacks! Once we exited customs, we walked over to the ATMs and withdrew funds. I withdrew the amount I thought I would need for the entire trip, which wasn't a lot. I prefer to using a credit card without foreign transaction fees when traveling. I'll explain this in detail on another post. The currency exchange booths only accept cash at the airport. This why the ATMs are key. If you decide to wait to withdraw money, you'll be fine! There are 7-Eleven locations throughout Tokyo and they have ATMs. I think the conversion might have been lower (more comparable to actual exchange rate). If I remember correctly the exchange rate was higher at the airport. TRANSPORTATION FROM AIRPORT TO HOTEL As I previously mentioned, I knew once I landed at Narita Airport, I would have to commute into Tokyo by bus, train, or private transfer. Depending on the option you select, it will tack on an additional 1 to 2 hours of travel time. Here's a breakdown of the options available to get from Narita Airport to Tokyo: Transport Approx Cost Travel Time Frequency Keisei Skyliner High-Speed Train From US$15* 1 hr Every 15-20 mins JR Narita Express Train US$19.61*  1 hr Every hour Keisei Main Line  Train US$8.00* 95 mins Every 15-20 mins Narita Airport Limousine Bus US$23.00* 90-120 mins Every 15-20 mins Regular Taxi (Grab outside of terminal) From US$174* 90 mins Generally available outside of the airport Pre-booked Shared Taxi From US$56.00*  1 hr Pre-book Private Transfe r Service US$146.00* 1 hour Pre-book * All of the details above were calculated on travel to Tokyo Station. Exact fares, times, and transfers will vary depending on your destination. Here's why I ultimately chose the Narita Airport Limousine Bus over all of the other options: It was convenient. It was cheap. Not the cheapest option though. The buses "run" to hotels all over Tokyo, which mean I didn't have to navigate the trains. More on this below. I didn't book the bus tickets in advance. Although, I should have (and really wanted to) to get the discount for booking in advance. However, the language on the website didn't seem clear to me at the time. I partially feel the language wasn't clear because I was planning and navigating so much and couldn't process all of the information to reach a sound decision. For this reason, I waited until I exited customs to purchase my roundtrip ticket. You can't miss the kiosk. The buses depart from the airport frequently (or you can save time, and book using the links above). Now that I'm experienced, I would probably opt to take the train. The commute from NRT to the Greater Tokyo area can be approximately 1 to 2+ hours depending on your form of transportation. Since there was tons of traffic, my commute ended up being around 2 hours. After using the free Wi-Fi to let my loved ones know I arrived, I ended up sleeping most of the trip. The bus terminal was two block away from the hotel, which was less than a 5 minute walk. The Japan Rail Pass can be purchased in advance of your trip. Once your order is confirmed, your pass can either be delivered to your home or to your temporary residence in Japan. After you arrive to Tokyo, your voucher needs to be exchanged for the actual rail pass. Learn more about the Japan Rail Pass here. If you choose this option, you need to plan accordingly because If you opt to use the JR Pass to get from the airport to the Greater Tokyo Area, you'll need the pass to be delivered to your home. More importantly, whether you use it for transport from the airport or not, you'll still need to ensure it arrives to your home or temporary residence in Japan in time for you to use it during your trip. GETTING AROUND TOKYO My hotel was in the Shinjuku ward of Tokyo. I intentionally chose to stay in this area because it's safe and has an active nightlife. The Shinjuku ward is similar to Times Square boasting nightclubs, karaoke, pubs, and tons of food options. Many of the businesses do not open until the late afternoon and close around dawn. Plus, a lot of the attractions were walkable from this ward. Remember when I told y'all, I didn't want to navigate the trains? Push this far from your memory! I'd heard the trains were quite challenging to navigate. For this reason, I avoided it and wrote it off before even giving myself a chance. Needless to say, I walked a lot at first, which in my opinion Tokyo was a very walkable city. I eventually bossed up - well I'm lying a little bit! One of the activities I wanted to do was too far to walk, so I had to quickly didn't have choice but to learn the trains system or miss out. Take another breath - You'll be fine! If you've managed a subway/train system in any other major city in United States or abroad, I can assure you that you can navigate Tokyo's train system! I think the person who shared how challenging it would be got caught up and flustered because they didn't know the language. Just don't the fact that you don't know the language stop you, employ some common sense (i.e. match the colors to letters), or simply ask for help. I purchased a regular day pass. Next time, I will explore multi-day pass options. In part 2 of this guide, I will share my itinerary. This will be especially important if your trip is short and you want a travel guide that will help you be the most efficient with your time. For this trip, I organized my itinerary by wards, which truly helped me see and do more. Ready?! Read part 2 - Best Things to Do in Tokyo, Japan here .

If your flight, cruise, hotel accommodations, or any other travel plans get cancelled at no fault of your own, you are entitled to a refund. In some cases, the company is not only responsible for issuing the refunded amount, they might owe you additional compensation per their policy. Be sure to go to the company's website to read their cancellation, delay, and lost baggage polices for clarity around what is owed to you. In this blog post, I share six (6) tips for getting money back from a travel company that has failed to issue you a refund due to a cancelled trip. I recommend being extremely proactive! Why? The longer you wait decreases your chances of using the options below / having all of the options at your disposal to fight for a refund. 6 Tips to Get a Refund for a Canceled Flight, Cruise, or Hotel 1. Call the number listed in your confirmation email First things first, check you confirmation email for contact information. If you're unable to find a number in your confirmation email, go the company's website. Call the number and before you start sharing any information related to your issue, ask for the customer service representative's name and employee/ID number. After you've been giving this information, explain the situation to them. Be sure to get this information from each person you speak with and take detail notes of your conversation. The notes should include the date and time you called and an overview of what was discussed. If you call the company multiple times, repeat these steps for each call. Providing you with a detail log so you don't have to recall the conversation, dates, and times. Showing you're proactively trying to contact and work with the company to handle the issue. Demonstrating the company's failure to uphold ethical business practices and comply with the law. Giving you everything you need to take further action such as contacting your bank, filing a complaint with the Better Business Bureau (BBB), etc. It's important for me to mention that in some cases the customer service representative will request to call you back after their supervisor has had a chance to review the case. Unfortunately, a call back doesn't always happen, but not to worry! We'll get your money! 2. Dispute the charges with you bank / credit card company If you don't have success calling the travel company, file a claim with the financial institution that you used to book your travel plans. I always recommend using a credit card for larger travel expenses. Why? If you have an issue getting a refund, your actual money won't be tied up. Please note that once you file a dispute with your bank, they will temporarily reimburse your money (this totally depends on your bank's policy). In the case that the dispute doesn't go in your favor, the bank will reverse the reimbursement. On the flip side, when you file a claim with your credit card company, they will issue a temporary credit or freeze the amount being disputed to help you avoid unnecessary interest charges (once more this is totally contingent upon the credit card company's policy). This means any interest associated with those charges should not appear on your statement. Typically, you have to wait ten (10) days from the date that the charges posted to your account to file a claim. Additionally, you have to contact the company directly to resolve the issue before filing a claim (the financial institution will ask). Only After ten (10) days have passed and you've experienced no luck working directly with the travel company to get a refund are you eligible to file a claim. You can either log into your account or call your financial institution to file the claim. It's a quick process - You'll have to answer a few questions and submit any documentation that will help your case. After you file a dispute, your financial institution will contact the travel company on your behalf regarding your refund request. The travel company will have a specified amount of time to respond to the claim. I've seen timeframes from 30 days to 120 days allowed for a response. Needless to say, this route might take longer to reach your desired results. In the end, one of three things will happen: If the travel company doesn't respond in time, your financial institution will decide in your favor awarding you with a (permanent) refund. The travel company admits they're wrong and issues a refund. The travel company informs your financial institution that you are not owed a refund. They will need to provide an explanation and documentation. Their response will then be shared with you. At this point, your financial institution could find their response sufficient and immediately award in their favor or provide you with a chance to counter. The financial institution will not allow the back and forth of responses to drag on for too long. They will swiftly choose a side to close the case. It's important for me to mention that I've had situations where a client or myself was rightfully owed a refund from a travel company and my bank awarded in their favor. If you find yourself in this situation, all is not lost! We still have options. Helpful Resources: Learn more information about the three types of payment reversals Learn more on how to dispute a credit card charge Learn more on how to dispute a charge 3. Contact Corporate If you don't have success with the aforementioned options, you should definitely contact corporate. Most people never think to contact a company's corporate office, but the truth is, they like hearing from customers and typically respond and resolve complaints quickly. Go the travel company's website and proceed to their contact page. There should be information on the contact page on how to file a complaint. Most often you'll have to fill out a form or send an email. Be sure to provide as much detail and documentation as possible (hello, call log!). If the complaint is to be submitted via a form, take a screenshot of the form before submitting your response. Additionally, take a screenshot of the confirmation page. Keep both for your records because not all websites send an email confirming receipt of your complaint and if they do if could be an automatic message that doesn't include a record of your complaint. I said it and I'll say it again - keep thorough records of everything! Please note that you can do this in tandem with filing a dispute with your financial institution to speed things along. If you're able to get the issue resolved working with corporate, simply call your financial institution to let them know that they can close the claim. 4. File a complaint with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) Out of all of the options, filing a complaint with the BBB is the option I use the most. I must also mention, I've been at this for a long time. So I know which option will be the most effective when dealing with any given travel company. In order to file a complaint with the BBB, the travel company must be accredited. This means that they have registered their business on the site to receive a rating based on their customer's experience with their company. Most companies that are registered truly care about their rating and work diligently to resolve complaints and negative reviews. When drafting your complaint be as concise as possible. Don't include emotionally charged language. Trust me! It will not help your case. Do your best to only include facts. Once more, this is where your documentation and detailed records will be helpful. You'll be able to include everything that has happened to this point without having to recall your experience. While this process doesn't take as long as filing a dispute with a financial institution, it does require some patience. Here's what happens after you file a complaint: The BBB needs to decide whether it meets their complaint acceptance criteria. If it does, your complaint will be sent to the travel company within two business days. The travel company then has 14 calendar days to respond. You will be notified of the travel company's response when the BBB receives it. Similarly to financial institutions, the BBB will not allow the back and forth of responses to drag on for too long. They typically close complaints within in 30 days. Failure to respond in the specified time by either you or the travel company will result in the BBB awarding in the other party's favor. It's important to note that even if the BBB does rule in your favor, they will not and cannot make the travel company issue a refund. However, as mentioned above, a company that is register with the BBB typically cares about their rating and reputation and will do everything to comply. 5. Report them to the proper regulatory agency Travel companies do not operate as independent entities. Airlines, hotels, cruise lines, etc. report and answer to a higher power such as governmental offices / agencies. These offices / agencies are responsible for making sure companies are adhering to ethical business practices, the rules to maintain a fair marketplace, and that they aren't breaking the law. They collect reports from consumers, conduct investigations, sue companies that break the law, and educate consumers about their rights. Unfortunately, many companies failed to reimburse customers for cancellations due to COVID. So as of 2022, The Department of Transportation has been cracking down on these unethical practices to ensure customers receive refunds. Not only are they assessing fines, lawsuits have been filed, and they've ordered airlines to pay upwards of $600 million in refunds to hundreds of thousands of customers who had been denied them. Helpful Resources: Department of Transportation (DOT) Bureau of Consumer Protection Federal Maritime Commission 6. Blast them on Social Media Most travel companies have an active social media presence that they use to market their services and reach their audience. With that said, the last thing they want is negative call outs on social media. Publicly calling companies out on their platform is an effective strategy because companies realize they're at risk of losing future business if the masses get wind of bad business practices. As a result, they're willing to do everything in their power to remedy situations as quickly as possible. This is especially true is you have a large social media following. Not only can you use these tips to get refunds from a travel company, you can use them with any company that owes you a refund.

Shop Outfit We independently  select these products—if you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. All prices were accurate at the time of publishing. I'm beaming from ear to ear! After weeks of scouring the internet and planning, I finally got to go on a trip. Although I've sworn off international travel for the foreseeable future, a little weekend getaway to Rehoboth Beach, Delaware provided the perfect amount of adventure and excitement to refill my "travel tank". Shop Outfit Rehoboth is a charming beach oasis located in Delaware that doesn't miss a beat! From the endless outdoor activities and attractions to the first class hotel amenities and hospitality, Rehoboth gets my stamp of approval as a must visit. Looking to visit Rehoboth Beach, Delaware? This weekend guide includes tips on where to stay, what to do and where to eat and drink. Don't even get me started on the seafood. FYI - I got started below...Lol! Shop Outfit Rehoboth Beach Weekend Guide: Best Things to Do and See Where to Stay Hotel Rehoboth was an affordable option that didn't skimp on amenities or services. We opted for a room with a balcony for the private outdoor space. Amenities Offered Outdoor pool Complimentary breakfast Robes & slippers Free parking Nightly turndown service Bicycle rentals Evening wine Open-air beach shuttle with chairs & towels You get the point! And that's not even everything. Shop Outfit Outdoor Activities Bike Rentals Rehoboth Beach & Boardwalk Walking trails Scooter rentals Parasailing Fishing Paddle boarding Shopping Breweries And so much more! Last, but certainly not least, the food. Specifically, the seafood - Try it all! There were places on my list that I didn't get to try. Some dining/foods options were local favorites. Restaurants and Bars Mason's Famous Lobster Rolls Thrasher's French Fries Purple Parrot Restaurant & Bar (the customer service was subpar, but the drinks were cheap) Sazio (top 10 dining experiences) Aqua Bar & Grill

We independently  select these products—if you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. All prices were accurate at the time of publishing. What if I told you, “You could print your passport photo at home?” It sounds crazy, right? Well you can! All you need is a smartphone, a printer (that prints in color), photo paper , and a Ring Light Tripod with a wireless remote. First things first, grab your smartphone and download "Passport Size Photo Maker" from the app store. I’m sure there are other apps, but this is the one I used. Next, position yourself against a wall and take your photo. It’s best if you take the picture in front of a bare wall. No worries if you’re nervous about getting it right. The app has a built in grid that will help you line yourself up just right. Once you feel you’ve captured the perfect photo, proceed to the next step. You will need to s elect your country. This will ensure the passport photo is the correct size. After moving through the steps to flip/rotate, align and crop your photo, you’ll have the option to extract your background. This steps allows you to your background to a white background. This is a very important step as a solid white background is required. Make sure you review the tips for submitting photos for your country. There are rules and restrictions around resolution, print size, quality, poses, expressions, and attire. I’ve included the link for U.S. passport photos here . The website also provides satisfactory examples of passport photos. You’ve made it this far - Guess what? You’re ready to print your photo! Load your printer with photo paper, then press print. Pro tip: Add a thin border to the image. The first time I didn’t do this, so I had to line the photos up against a ruler to ensure I cut them in a straight line. Be sure to cut off all of the border without affecting the required size of the image. You’ve been warned. I’ve used this app to print photos for my passport, international driving permit, and all other applications that require a “passport” standard photo. What say you? Will you skip the trip to CVS or play it safe? Supplies Needed to Print Passport Photos at Home: Canon Printer Canon Photo Paper Ring Light Tripod with Wireless Remote

Have you seen the lanterns in Chinatown, New York City? 250 paper lanterns are now lighting up Mott Street adding a colorful energy, warmth, and brightness to Chinatown, NYC . Many businesses throughout NYC have taken a hit due to the pandemic. With New York Governor Andrew Cuomo issuing an Executive Order N0. 202.8 requiring all nonessential employees to stay home, businesses were forced to shut down or reduce their operations to comply with the order or be subject to fines. Consequently, business owners of shops and restaurants in Chinatown have been severely impacted. In addition to the rules set forth by the order resulting in forced closures, xenophobic fears of COVID-19 has caused a lack of business and dwindling customers in this Lower Manhattan neighborhood. T0 help this historic neighborhood and small immigrant-owned businesses survive the pandemic, an organization called Send Chinatown Love has stepped in. This organization is mobilizing shops and restaurants by organizing food crawls, optimizing their online presence to increase revenue, and setting up a variety of other fundraising campaigns. One of those being "Light Up Chinatown" - a grassroots initiative with a mission to bring the community together during the pandemic by boosting the confidence of the neighborhood and to remind people that while many businesses have closed, many are still open. Send Chinatown Love is installing 250 paper lanterns and light fixtures on Mott Street  between Canal and Bayard streets to light up the street in these dark times, and also inspire New Yorkers and tourists alike back to Chinatown's streets to support local businesses. Patrick Mock, the manager of 46 Mott Street Bakery and community advocate who has been providing meals to the homeless and senior Chinatown residents, first thought of the idea. With the help of City Council District 1 candidate Jenny Low, Chung Seto of United Democratic Organization (UDO), Joanne Kwong of Pearl River Mart and Send Chinatown Love, the Light Up Chinatown project was born. They were inspired by the lit lanterns in San Francisco's Chinatown and took the idea to the Chinatown Business Improvement District , which started them off with $21,000. From there, they received an $8,000 grant from the Chinese Chamber of Commerce and then raised more than $48,000 through grants, donations and the $150 lantern adoptions (each of the 250 lanterns represents a donation of $45 or more to the Light Up Chinatown project). The lanterns began being hung across Mott Street in December 2020 in the colors pink, orange, violet, and gold (the lanterns were meant to be red and white, but red was out of stock). Each of the lanterns are coated in nylon and weatherized, and are individually personalized with the names of people who supported the initiative along with Chinese calligraphy done by the New York Chinese Cultural Center and local artists from Think!Chinatown . The lanterns are also adorned with kawaii cartoons, emoji faces, handprints, pretty flowers and foliage, bold shapes and patterns in three paint colors. The designs were symbols for good fortune, peace, love, happiness, wealth, and longevity. The Light Up Chinatown NYC initiative has drawn locals and visitors to the neighborhood capturing photos underneath the glowing lanterns in turn increasing the foot traffic and hope for neighborhood and businesses. Fun Fact: Will Smith's $10,000 donation garnered a lot of media attention and support to the campaign. You can donate to the campaign by visiting Send Chinatown Love's website . There's also a GoFundMe page set up and of course, you can go check out the lanterns in person and support a Chinatown business. NYC Chinatown Digital Directory >>

In our fast-paced world, it’s easy to overlook the importance of health and wellness, especially when juggling so many tasks every day. But I’ve come to realize that making time for self-care doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. For me, one of the simplest and most enjoyable ways to prioritize my health and wellness is through tea. It has always been more than just a drink for me, it’s a daily ritual that I cherish. From managing stress to calming anxiety to bringing a sense of peace to my everyday life each cup provides a sense of comfort and wellness. We independently  select these products—if you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. All prices were accurate at the time of publishing. Over the years, I’ve discovered that different types of tea come with their own unique set of health benefits. Whether I’m seeking relaxation, a mental boost, or digestive support, there’s always a perfect tea to suit my needs. In this post, I’m excited to share some of the best teas to drink for your health and wellness and the incredible health benefits they offer. If you’re looking to improve your wellness through a simple, enjoyable drink, these teas might just be what you need. Top 10 Best Teas for Health and Wellness You Should Try 1. Soursop Tea: Relax and Recharge Indulge in the calming power of Soursop tea, a tropical delight made from the leaves of the soursop tree. With its mild, earthy flavor and natural sweetness, this herbal brew is more than just a soothing drink—it’s packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties that support your health. Some studies suggest that soursop may even have cancer-fighting potential, making it a thoughtful addition to your wellness routine. Sip, relax, and let this natural elixir promote peace, health, and vitality! Health Benefits of Soursop Tea: Boosts Immunity: Packed with antioxidants and vitamin C Reduces Stress: Calming effects that help ease anxiety Supports Digestion: Helps soothe digestive discomfort and promote gut health 2. Calendula Tea: Your Floral Escape to Calm and Wellness Step into a world of calm with Calendula tea,  a soothing and healing herbal brew with a rich array of health benefits made from the vibrant petals of the marigold flower. Known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, Calendula tea is particularly effective in supporting digestive health. It can help ease symptoms of acid reflux, soothe stomach ulcers, and reduce bloating or indigestion. Its natural healing properties promote a calm, healthy digestive system, while its gentle floral flavor makes it a comforting, everyday remedy for stomach discomfort. Health Benefits of Calendula Tea : Soothes Digestive Issues: Helps ease acid reflux, bloating, and indigestion Promotes Skin Health: Anti-inflammatory properties support skin healing and reduce irritation Relieves Stress: Calming effects that help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation 3. Mullein Tea: A Breath of Fresh Air Mullein tea, made from the leaves and flowers of the mullein plant, is a soothing herbal remedy known for its gentle support of respiratory health. With its natural anti-inflammatory properties, it helps clear the airways, making it a great choice for soothing coughs, colds, and congestion. Sip this calming, earthy tea to promote lung health, ease breathing, and enjoy a moment of pure relaxation—your breath of fresh air in a cup. Health Benefits of Mullein Tea : Supports Respiratory Health: Helps soothe coughs, ease congestion, and clear airways Anti-Inflammatory: Reduces inflammation, promoting better lung and throat health Natural Relaxant: Calms the body and mind, helping to relieve stress and promote relaxation 4. Roasted Dandelion Tea: A Cozy Sip of Earthy Goodness Mullein tea, made from the leaves and flowers of the mullein plant, is a soothing herbal remedy known for its gentle support of respiratory health. With its natural anti-inflammatory properties, it helps clear the airways, making it a great choice for soothing coughs, colds, and congestion. Sip this calming, earthy tea to promote lung health, ease breathing, and enjoy a moment of pure relaxation—your breath of fresh air in a cup. Health Benefits of Roasted Dandelion Tea: Detoxifies the Body: Supports liver function and helps flush out toxins Aids Digestion: Promotes healthy digestion and relieves bloating Rich in Antioxidants: Packed with antioxidants that protect cells and support overall wellness 5. Spearmint Tea: A Refreshing Glow from Within Spearmint tea is a cooling, crisp herbal infusion that not only delights your taste buds but also supports your skin. Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, this tea can help balance hormones, which may reduce acne flare-ups. Packed with antioxidants, spearmint tea also promotes overall skin health while soothing digestion and calming stress. Sip your way to clear skin and a refreshing sense of calm with every cup. Health Benefits of Spearmint Tea: Helps Clear Acne: Balances hormones and reduces acne flare-ups Supports Digestion: Eases bloating and indigestion Relieves Stress: Calms the mind and promotes relaxation 6. Green Tea Matcha: The Perfect Boost for Your Day Matcha is more than just a tea—it's an experience! This vibrant green powder, made from finely ground tea leaves, offers a rich, earthy flavor that's unlike any other tea. Packed with antioxidants and a unique combination of caffeine and L-theanine, matcha provides a natural, sustained energy boost while promoting focus and relaxation. Health Benefits 0f Matcha Green Tea: Rich in Antioxidants: Helps fight free radicals and supports overall health Boosts Focus and Energy: Provides a balanced, sustained energy boost without the jitters Supports Metabolism: May help with weight management and fat burning 7. Stress Ease Focus Tea: Ginseng, Wild Apple & Mint: Focus & Flow Traditional Medicinals' Organic Stress Ease Focus tea combines the calming power of ginseng, wild apple, and mint with the benefits of adaptogens to help your body adapt to stress. Ginseng, a well-known adaptogen, helps support mental clarity and balance, while wild apple and mint offer a refreshing, soothing experience. This herbal blend is designed to promote relaxation and focus, providing a natural way to manage stress and maintain mental clarity throughout your day. Perfect for those seeking a peaceful, focused mind in moments of challenge. Health Benefits of Stress Ease Focus: Ginseng, Wild Apple & Mint Tea: Supports Mental Clarity: Ginseng acts as an adaptogen, helping to improve focus and cognitive function while reducing stress Promotes Relaxation: The calming properties of wild apple and mint help soothe the body and mind, encouraging relaxation without drowsiness Enhances Stress Resilience: Adaptogens help the body better cope with stress, maintaining balance and energy throughout the day 8. Happy Garden Tea: A Brew of Joy and Tranquility Happy Garden Tea invites you into a tranquil floral escape, with a calming blend of dates, licorice, roses, and gardenia. This soothing tea is crafted to help ease anxiety, uplift mood, and support balance, especially during times of stress or the pre-menstrual cycle. A time-honored remedy for calming worries, it promotes relaxation and emotional well-being, offering comfort for both the body and mind. Health Benefits of Happy Garden Tea: Supports Emotional Well-Being: Helps ease anxiety and uplift mood, promoting a sense of calm and contentment Balances Hormones: Formulated to support the body during the pre-menstrual cycle, helping to alleviate discomfort Promotes Relaxation: The soothing blend of floral ingredients helps reduce stress and encourages mental and physical relaxation 9. Ginger Tea: A Zesty Boost of Warmth and Wellness Traditional Medicinals Ginger Tea is a warm and invigorating herbal blend that combines the natural zest of ginger with soothing properties to support digestion and ease discomfort. Known for its calming effects on the stomach, this tea helps relieve occasional nausea and promotes overall wellness. Perfect for any time of day, it provides a gentle, spicy warmth to comfort both body and mind. Health Benefits of Ginger Tea: Supports Digestion: Helps relieve occasional indigestion and nausea, promoting a healthy digestive system Reduces Inflammation: Ginger’s natural anti-inflammatory properties help ease discomfort and support joint health Boosts Immunity: Known for its immune-boosting effects, ginger helps the body fight off common ailments 10. Triple Mint Tea: A Refreshing Blend of Minty Bliss Traditional Medicinals Ginger Tea is a warm and invigorating herbal blend that combines the natural zest of ginger with soothing properties to support digestion and ease discomfort. Known for its calming effects on the stomach, this tea helps relieve occasional nausea and promotes overall wellness. Perfect for any time of day, it provides a gentle, spicy warmth to comfort both body and mind. Health Benefits of Traditional Medicinals Triple Mint Tea: Supports Digestion: Helps soothe and ease digestive discomfort, promoting a healthy gut Relieves Bloating: The mint blend helps reduce bloating and gas for a more comfortable feeling Promotes Relaxation: Known for its calming effects, Triple Mint Tea helps reduce stress and tension Incorporating these teas into my daily routine has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my wellness journey. They not only provide physical benefits but it's also a simple, yet powerful and natural way to contribute to my mental and emotional well-being. By taking a few moments to enjoy a cup of tea, I’m nourishing my body, boosting my health, and cultivating a sense of balance and mindfulness. I hope this post has inspired you to explore the health benefits of these teas and perhaps try a new one in your wellness routine. With so many different flavors and healing properties, there’s a perfect tea for every need. Here's to nourishing our bodies, one cup at a time!

Finding the perfect foundation when you have oily, melanated skin can feel like a never-ending beauty mission. Too dewy and you’re shiny by noon; too matte and your skin looks flat or ashy. But the beauty industry has come a long way, and thankfully, there are now formulas that cater to deeper skin tones and  deliver the oil control we crave. We independently  select these products—if you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. All prices were accurate at the time of publishing. Whether you're heading to work, out for the night, or just want to stay snatched all day long, these three foundations have proven to be holy grail status. Here are the best 3 foundations that beautifully serve oily melanated skin — giving you coverage, control, and confidence. Read More: Best Skincare Products for Oily, Sensitive Skin – Easy Steps, Big Results! Top Foundations for Oily Melanated Skin You Need to Try 1. Fenty Beauty by Rihanna Pro Filt’r Soft Matte Longwear Liquid Foundation Why We Love It: Rihanna changed the foundation game with Fenty Beauty, delivering a formula that truly caters to deeper complexions. The Pro Filt’r Soft Matte Longwear Foundation offers buildable medium-to-full coverage  with a soft-matte finish that keeps shine in check without making your skin look dull or lifeless. Designed specifically for oily skin, this long-wear formula holds up against humidity, sweat, and all-day wear . With 50 inclusive shades , finding your perfect match is easier than ever—whether your undertone is golden, olive, neutral, or somewhere in between. ✔ Oil control?  Absolutely. ✔ Coverage?  Buildable and seamless. ✔ Does it look like skin?  Flawlessly so. Purchase Here >> 2. MAKE UP FOR EVER HD Skin Waterproof Natural Matte Foundation Why We Love It: For those who want their skin to look like skin —even under a 4K lens—MAKE UP FOR EVER’s HD Skin Waterproof Natural Matte Foundation is the ultimate pick. This lightweight, breathable formula  delivers a natural matte finish that keeps oil in check without flattening your glow. It’s waterproof, sweat-proof, and transfer-resistant , making it a must-have for long days, hot weather, and special events. The shade range is thoughtfully designed for deeper skin tones, embracing a variety of undertones beyond the standard cool/warm options. Whether you're aiming for a barely-there look or full glam, this foundation blends effortlessly for a seamless, camera-ready finish. ✔ Waterproof?  Yes. ✔ Transfer-resistant?  Definitely. ✔ Doesn’t go ashy?  Never. Purchase Here >> 3. MAC Studio Fix Fluid SPF15 24HR Matte Foundation + Oil Control Why We Love It: A true classic, MAC Studio Fix Fluid  has been a go-to for oily skin for decades—and for good reason. This long-wearing, high-pigment foundation  delivers a matte finish that stays smooth without looking cakey. It controls shine while remaining breathable, making it perfect for everyday wear or full-glam moments. With an expansive shade range  and strong pigment payoff, MAC has been ahead of the game in catering to melanin-rich skin tones. Plus, it includes SPF 15  for a little extra protection (though you should still layer on your daily sunscreen!). ✔ Oil control?  Reliable and consistent. ✔ Longevity?  All day and night. ✔ Shade range?  Deep, thoughtful, and inclusive. Purchase Here >> Pro Tips for Shade Matching Oily Melanated Skin: Keep a Seasonal Shade:  Your skin tone shifts throughout the year, so it’s normal to have one shade for winter  and another for summer  to match your complexion perfectly. Mix for the Perfect Match:  Sometimes, the best shade isn’t in one bottle. Blending two shades  can help you achieve a seamless, custom tone that adapts to your undertone and depth. Adjust Based on Your Skin’s Needs:  Some days your skin is extra oily, other days it’s more balanced. Switch between formulas  or tweak your application method to keep your makeup looking fresh all day long. Final Thoughts When it comes to foundation for oily, melanated skin, the key is finding a formula that balances oil control  with rich, flattering undertones , all while ensuring long-lasting wear and comfort. Whether you're going for a bold, full-glam look or a natural, everyday beat, these three foundations deliver on every front. With these in your rotation, your perfect matte match is just a pump away, and your skin will stay flawless all day. These foundations aren’t just melanin-friendly; they’re also oil-fighting  powerhouses that adapt to your skin’s needs. From long-lasting coverage to controlling shine without dulling your glow, these picks have got you covered for any occasion. What’s your holy grail foundation for oily skin? Drop it in the comments — sharing is caring!

Every woman has her go-to beauty and fashion routines, but what if there were a few simple hacks that could take your self-care and style to the next level? From preventing chafing to boosting your skin’s glow, these 10 essential fashion and beauty hacks will help you feel more confident, comfortable, and chic—whether you're running errands, heading to work, or getting ready for a night out. We independently  select these products—if you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. All prices were accurate at the time of publishing. Read More: The Ultimate Nighttime Skincare Routine for Black Women with Oily Skin Skip to the section you're most interested in:   Body Glide   - Deodorant Antiperspirant Spray  - Winter Scarves   - Apple Cider Vinegar  - Glycolic Acid   - Hand Sanitizer   - Clear Nail Polish   - Oil Pulling   - Jojoba Oil   - Athletic Tape Top Fashion and Beauty Hacks Every Woman Can Use 1. Use Body Glide to Prevent Chafing and Rubbing Chafing can quickly turn a perfectly good day into an uncomfortable one, especially when you're wearing dresses, skirts, or tight clothing. Body Glide  is your secret weapon here! This invisible balm prevents friction between your skin and clothes, helping you stay comfortable and free from irritation. Apply it to areas like your thighs, underarms, or feet to avoid rubbing and stay smooth all day long. Purchase Here >> 2. Use Deodorant Antiperspirant Spray on Your Feet to Reduce Sweat Sweaty feet are one of those under-the-radar problems that many women deal with, especially in warmer months or when wearing closed-toe shoes. The fix? Deodorant antiperspirant spray . Spraying it on your feet before you put on shoes will help reduce sweat and keep your feet feeling fresh and dry throughout the day. It’s an easy and effective way to prevent foot odor, especially if you’re on the go. Purchase Here >> 3. Winter Scarves: A Stylish Multi-Purpose Essential Scarves are typically associated with cold weather, but they’re far more versatile than just keeping you warm! Winter scarves  can be used in a variety of ways to elevate your fashion game. Turn one into a shirt  by tying it around your torso, a skirt  by wrapping it around your waist, or a head wrap  to add a chic flair to any outfit. With the right creativity, scarves can be an accessory for almost any occasion. Learn More Here >> 4. Apple Cider Vinegar for Balancing PH in Your Feminine Area Apple cider vinegar is well-known for its health benefits, and it's also a natural way to maintain your intimate hygiene. By using a diluted solution in your bath or as a gentle wash, apple cider vinegar  helps balance the pH in your feminine areas. This can reduce irritation, prevent infections, and keep things fresh. Just make sure to do a patch test to ensure it works for your skin. Purchase Here >> 5. Use Glycolic Acid to Get Rid of Bikini Bumps and Underarm Bacteria Glycolic acid is a powerful ingredient that helps exfoliate the skin and prevent ingrown hairs, which makes it perfect for smoothing out bikini bumps . Applying a glycolic acid product to your bikini line after shaving or waxing can keep your skin smooth and bump-free. It’s also a great solution for preventing underarm bacteria that can cause odor, ensuring you stay fresh all day. Purchase Here >> 6. Hand Sanitizer to Remove Stains from Clothes Spilling food or drink on your clothes when you're out and about can be a nightmare, especially if you're far from home. But don’t worry, hand sanitizer  can help! The alcohol in sanitizer can break down grease and other stains on fabric. Dab a small amount of sanitizer on the stain, blot gently, and you’ll find that the stain is much less noticeable until you can wash it properly. It's a clever, quick fix when you're in a bind. Purchase Here >> 7. Clear Nail Polish to Prevent Jewelry Tarnish Your jewelry is an investment, and keeping it looking shiny and new is key. One simple trick to prevent tarnishing is to coat your jewelry with a thin layer of clear nail polish . This helps create a protective barrier, preventing moisture and oils from damaging your pieces. It’s especially great for rings, necklaces, and bracelets that you wear every day and want to keep looking sparkling. Purchase Here >> 8. Oil Pulling to Whiten Teeth and Prevent Cavities Want to improve your oral hygiene naturally? Oil pulling  is an ancient practice that can help whiten teeth, prevent cavities, and promote overall mouth health. Simply swish a tablespoon of coconut oil (or sesame oil) in your mouth for 15–20 minutes. It pulls out bacteria and toxins, leaving your mouth feeling fresh and your teeth looking brighter. It’s a simple and holistic way to improve your smile. Purchase Here >> 9. Add Jojoba Oil to Your Lotion for Extra Moisture If you’ve ever used a lotion that didn’t provide quite enough moisture, adding a few drops of jojoba oil  can make all the difference. Jojoba oil is similar to the natural oils produced by your skin, which makes it a perfect addition to your skincare routine. Mix it with your lotion for extra hydration and to lock in moisture, especially if you have dry or sensitive skin. It’s a simple way to keep your skin feeling soft, smooth, and nourished. Purchase Here >> 10. Athletic Tape as a Bra Alternative for Strapless, Backless, or Deep-Cut Tops When wearing strapless, backless, or deep-cut tops, keeping everything in place without showing bra straps can be a challenge. Enter athletic tape ! This hack works wonders as a makeshift bra, providing support and lift while remaining discreet. Simply use the tape to secure your breasts, holding them up and in place without the need for a traditional bra. It’s perfect for those daring outfits where you want to stay comfortable and confident—without the worry of visible straps. Purchase Here >> Incorporating these fashion and beauty hacks into your daily routine can make a huge difference in how you look and feel. Whether you're dealing with chafing, sweaty feet, or stubborn stains, these quick and easy solutions will help you tackle common problems and enhance your self-care routine. Try them out and watch how these small adjustments can lead to big results—making you feel more comfortable, stylish, and confident every day.

Taking care of your skin at night is essential for maintaining a healthy, glowing complexion. When you have oily skin, your goal is to balance oil production, hydrate, and treat concerns like acne and hyperpigmentation. Here's the perfect nighttime skincare routine for Black women with oily skin, designed to focus on controlling excess oil, addressing acne and hyperpigmentation, and hydrating your skin. We independently  select these products—if you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. All prices were accurate at the time of publishing. Read More: The Best Morning Skincare Routine for Black Women with Oily Skin Skip to the section you're most interested in:   Cleanse with a Gentle Gel or Foaming Cleanser  - Exfoliate 2-3 Times a Week - Apply a Toner to Balance Oil Production  - Treatment Serum for Targeted Concerns  - Spot Treatments for Blemishes (Optional) - Apply an Eye Cream (Optional)   - Moisturize to Keep Skin Hydrated  - Bonus: Add a Night Mask (Optional) - Bonus: Add a Facial Oil (Optional) Step-by-Step Nighttime Skincare Routine for Black Women with Oily Skin Step 1: Cleanse with a Gentle Gel or Foaming Cleanser The first step is to use a gentle, gel-based or foaming cleanser that is specifically designed for oily skin. Choose a formula that doesn’t strip your skin but helps to remove dirt, oil, and impurities. Key Ingredients to Look for : Salicylic acid, tea tree oil, or niacinamide. Why This Works : These ingredients help balance oil production and prevent clogged pores, reducing the risk of breakouts. They also keep your skin feeling fresh without over-drying. Product Recommendations: KORA Organics Turmeric Glow Foaming Cleanser It's a luxurious yet gentle facial cleanser that deeply purifies the skin while promoting a brighter, more even complexion. Infused with turmeric, known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant-rich properties, this foaming cleanser helps to calm irritated skin, reduce redness, and restore a healthy glow. How to Use:  Pump a small amount onto damp skin and gently massage it into your face in circular motions, then rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water. Follow up with your regular skincare routine for glowing, refreshed skin. For best results, use consistently as part of your daily routine to achieve glowing, even skin. Urban Skin Rx Even Tone Cleansing Bar 3-in-1 It's a multi-functional skincare product designed to cleanse, exfoliate, and brighten the skin in one simple step. This bar is specially formulated to target uneven skin tone, dark spots, and discoloration, making it a great option for those seeking a more radiant and uniform complexion. How to Use: Wet your face and the bar, then massage it onto your skin in circular motions. Leave it on for up to 3 minutes before rinsing thoroughly. Step 2: Exfoliate 2-3 Times a Week Exfoliants help remove dead skin cells, unclog pores, and promote smoother, brighter skin by using chemical or physical methods. Key Ingredients to Look for : Glycolic acid (AHA), salicylic acid (BHA), or lactic acid (AHA) Why This Works : Salicylic acid (BHA) and glycolic acid (AHA) are effective for removing dead skin cells, unclogging pores, and improving skin texture. Lactic acid provides gentle exfoliation and hydration. Product Recommendations: Paula's Chocie Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant It's a cult-favorite exfoliating treatment designed to refine skin texture, clear pores, and improve skin tone. This product contains salicylic acid (BHA), a powerful exfoliant that works deep within the pores to remove dead skin cells, excess oil, and debris, preventing breakouts and promoting smoother, clearer skin. How to Use:  Apply a small amount to a cotton pad and gently swipe it across your face after cleansing, avoiding the eye area. Use it 2-3 times a week or daily depending on your skin's tolerance, followed by your usual skincare routin e. Always apply sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher after using any exfoliant during the day.  Step 3: Apply a Toner to Balance Oil Production A toner helps to restore your skin’s natural pH balance and refine pores. It can also help control oil production overnight. Key Ingredients to Look for : Witch hazel, tea tree oil, niacinamide, or aloe vera. Why This Works : Witch hazel is great for minimizing excess oil, while niacinamide can calm inflammation and reduce the appearance of pores. Aloe vera provides hydration without adding extra oil. Product Recommendations: OLEHENRIKSEN Glow2OH 7% Exfoliating Dark Spot Toner It's a potent, exfoliating toner designed to target uneven skin tone, dark spots, and texture while leaving your skin with a glowing, refreshed appearance. This toner contains 7% glycolic acid (AHA), which works to exfoliate the skin's surface, removing dead skin cells, and promoting a brighter and more even complexion. How to Use:  Apply it to a cotton pad and gently swipe it across your face after cleansing, avoiding the eye area. It's safe for daily use, but be cautious when mixing with other active ingredients like retinol or vitamin C. numbuzin No. 3 Toner Super Glowing Essence It's a hydrating and brightening toner designed to give your skin a healthy, radiant glow. This essence combines the benefits of a toner and a serum, providing deep hydration while improving skin tone and texture. How  to Use: Apply a few drops to a cotton pad or directly onto your palms, then gently press and pat it onto your face after cleansing. Let the essence absorb fully into your skin before continuing with the next steps in your skincare routine. Use it daily to achieve glowing, hydrated skin. Fenty Fat Water Niacinamide Pore-Refining Toner Serum with Barbados Cherry It's a multitasking skincare product designed to tone and hydrate while refining pores. Infused with niacinamide, it helps brighten and even out the skin tone, while Barbados cherry provides antioxidants for added protection. How to Use:  Apply a few pumps to a cotton pad or directly to your hands and gently press it into your face after cleansing. Step 4: Treatment Serum for Targeted Concerns Now is the time to treat specific skin issues such as acne, hyperpigmentation, or uneven skin tone. Serums penetrate deeper into the skin and provide targeted solutions. For Hyperpigmentation : Look for a serum with niacinamide , vitamin C , or alpha arbutin . These ingredients help brighten dark spots and even out skin tone over time. For Acne : If acne is a concern, choose a serum with salicylic acid  or retinol  (use retinol only a few times a week to avoid irritation). Salicylic acid will help exfoliate the skin and prevent clogged pores, while retinol can help reduce acne and improve skin texture. Product Recommendations: COSRX The 6 Peptide Skin Booster Serum It's a nourishing serum designed to strengthen and rejuvenate the skin by incorporating six different peptides, each with its unique benefits. Peptides are known for their ability to promote skin elasticity, enhance collagen production, and improve overall skin health. How to Use:  Apply a few drops to your face after cleansing and toning, gently patting it into the skin until fully absorbed. Follow with your moisturizer and sunscreen if using in the morning, or other treatments in your routine. Use daily for a more youthful, plump complexion. Urban Skin Rx Even Tone Super Glow Serum  with 10% L-Ascorbic Acid + Kojic Acid It's a potent serum formulated to brighten, exfoliate, and even out skin tone. How to Use: Apply a few drops to clean, dry skin in the morning or evening, gently massaging it into your face and neck. Anua Niacinamide 10 TXA 4 Serum It's a brightening and clarifying serum formulated to address skin tone unevenness, hyperpigmentation, and dullness. How to Use: Apply a few drops to clean, dry skin, gently massaging it into your face and neck. Since niacinamide can be potent, start by using it every other day and avoid mixing it with strong exfoliating acids like AHAs or BHAs to prevent irritation. Arencia Hyssop Glow Serum 12 It's a powerful, multi-functional serum designed to brighten, hydrate, and rejuvenate the skin. This serum combines the benefits of 10% niacinamide, a form of Vitamin B3, with the antioxidant-rich blend of Vitamin A (retinol), Vitamin C, and Vitamin E to target multiple skin concerns, including dullness, uneven skin tone, fine lines, and wrinkles. How to Use: Apply a few drops to clean, dry skin, gently massaging it into your face and neck. Step 5: Spot Treatments for Blemishes For any active blemishes, apply a targeted spot treatment directly to the problem areas. This step helps to treat acne overnight and prevent further breakouts. Key Ingredients to Look for : Benzoyl peroxide, sulfur, or salicylic acid. Why This Works : These ingredients target pimples and reduce inflammation. They’re great for quickly clearing up breakouts without irritating the surrounding skin. Product Recommendations: Medicube Zero Pore Pad It helps reduce the appearance of pores, while preventing and treating whiteheads and blackheads. Infused with ingredients like salicylic acid, it gently exfoliates and removes buildup, helping to clear clogged pores and promote smoother, clearer skin. How to Use:  Gently swipe the pad across your face after cleansing, focusing on areas with enlarged pores or congestion. Differin Acne Treatment Gel It's a topical retinoid that helps prevent acne breakouts by regulating skin cell turnover and reducing inflammation. It effectively treats both mild to moderate acne and helps to prevent future breakouts with consistent use. How to Use:  Apply a thin layer to clean, dry skin once daily in the evening, avoiding the eyes, mouth, and mucous membranes. Start with a small amount to minimize irritation and gradually increase use as your skin adjusts. Step 6: Apply an Eye Cream (Optional) If you're concerned about dark circles, puffiness, or fine lines around your eyes, consider using an eye cream. Look for ingredients that soothe and brighten the eye area. Key Ingredients to Look for : Caffeine, peptides, vitamin C, retinol, hyaluronic acid, or ceramides. Why This Works : Retinol promotes collagen production to reduce fine lines, while peptides strengthen skin elasticity and hyaluronic acid provides deep hydration to plump and smooth the skin. Caffeine helps reduce puffiness and dark circles, and ceramides restore moisture, ensuring the skin stays nourished and protected overnight. Product Recommendations: SOME BY MI Retinol Intense Advanced Triple Action Eye Cream It's an anti-aging eye treatment that combines retinol, niacinamide, and peptides to target wrinkles, dark circles, and puffiness while firming and brightening the eye area. It offers gentle yet effective results, ideal for sensitive skin around the eyes. How to Use:  Apply a small amount around the eye area at night, gently tapping it in with your ring finger until fully absorbed. Avoid applying it to the eyelids or inner corners of the eyes. Beauty of Joseon Revive Eye Serum It's a nourishing eye serum that helps target dark circles, puffiness, and fine lines. Formulated with ingredients like ginseng and rice, it promotes brightening, hydration, and firmness around the delicate eye area, giving the skin a refreshed and youthful appearance. Its lightweight, fast-absorbing texture makes it suitable for daily use. How to Use: Apply a small amount around the eye area using your ring finger, tapping it in until fully absorbed. Topicals Faded Under Eye Brightening & Clearing Eye Masks They are designed to brighten dark circles and reduce puffiness, using ingredients like niacinamide and vitamin C to improve skin tone and texture. They provide a cooling, hydrating treatment that helps clear and rejuvenate the under-eye area. How to Use: Gently place the masks under your eyes and leave them on for 10-15 minutes. Remove and gently pat the remaining product into the skin until fully absorbed Step 7: Moisturize to Keep Skin Hydrated Even oily skin needs hydration. Opt for a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer that hydrates the skin while keeping it balanced. Key Ingredients to Look for : Hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or ceramides. Why This Works : These ingredients hydrate the skin without clogging pores. A gel-based or water-based moisturizer works best for oily skin as it’s lighter and won’t leave a greasy residue. Product Recommendations: OLEHENRIKSEN Strength Trainer Skin Barrier Moisturizer with Peptides and Niacinamide It's a nourishing moisturizer designed to restore and strengthen the skin's natural barrier. The formula combines peptides, which promote skin elasticity and repair, with niacinamide, an anti-inflammatory ingredient known for its ability to reduce redness, even out skin tone, and enhance the skin's barrier function. How to Use:  Apply a generous amount to your face and neck after cleansing and toning, gently massaging it in until fully absorbed. Use it daily, both morning and night, to strengthen and hydrate your skin’s barrier. Step 8: Bonus: Add a Facial Oil (Optional) If you have oily skin but still need a little extra hydration, consider adding a small amount of facial oil to areas that tend to be drier. Look for non-comedogenic oils to nourish the skin without clogging pores. Key Ingredients to Look for : Squalane or jojoba oil. Why This Works : Facial oils with ingredients like squalane and jojoba work because they closely mimic the skin's natural oils, helping to lock in moisture, balance oil production, and strengthen the skin’s barrier. They provide deep hydration, nourishment, and antioxidant protection, promoting a smoother, healthier complexion. Product Recommendations: NOW Foods Solutions Jojoba Oil It's a 100% pure, natural oil that provides deep moisture and nourishment to the skin, hair, and nails. Extracted from the seeds of the jojoba plant, this oil is known for its similarity to the skin's natural sebum, which makes it an excellent moisturizer that absorbs easily and helps balance oil production. How to Use: Apply a few drops to your clean face or body and gently massage it in until absorbed. Since it's non-comedogenic, it’s safe for all skin types, including oily and acne-prone skin, and can be used daily to hydrate and nourish your skin. Step 9: Bonus: Add a Night Mask (Optional) If you want a bit of extra hydration or want to treat your skin with a mask, opt for a lightweight overnight hydrating or soothing mask. Avoid heavy masks, as they may clog your pores. Key Ingredients to Look for : Hyaluronic acid, aloe vera, or chamomile. Why This Works : These ingredients provide hydration and soothe your skin without clogging pores or adding extra oil. Product Recommendations: Medicube Collagen Overnight Wrapping Peel It's a nighttime treatment that combines collagen and exfoliating ingredients to improve skin elasticity and texture. It gently removes dead skin cells, hydrates, and leaves the skin feeling smooth and revitalized by morning. How to Use:  Apply a thin layer to clean, dry skin in the evening, gently massaging it in. Leave it on overnight and rinse off in the morning for smooth, hydrated skin. Key Tips: Hydrate Well:  Oily skin still needs hydration. Avoid skipping the moisturizer just because your skin is oily; a well-hydrated skin will help reduce excess oil production. Sunscreen in the Daytime:  Even though it's not part of a nighttime routine, remember to use sunscreen in the morning. Sunscreen helps prevent dark spots and premature aging. This skincare routine is designed to keep your skin healthy, clear, and glowing by addressing oily skin concerns while helping to even out dark spots, clear acne, and provide necessary hydration . The key to success is consistency—make sure to follow this routine regularly, and give products time to work. Over time, you’ll achieve clear, glowing skin that feels balanced and refreshed each morning. And remember, everyone’s skin is different, so feel free to adjust the routine to meet your specific needs. Don't forget to wear sunscreen during the day—this is crucial for protecting your skin and preventing further pigmentation.