Staying At A Traditional Japanese Ryokan - Ikumatsu Kyoto • 2 comments • Comfort is something that we really value when traveling, so sleeping on the floor doesn't typically sound like an ideal option... especially on vacation. We were, however, intrigued enough to stay at a traditional Japanese Ryokan, so we left our cozy bed at the Brighton and booked one night to check it out. The rooms in the 200-year-old building have been arranged in an authentic Japanese style with tatami mats and decorated with antiques and collectibles. One night here was enough. A lot of Ryokans have onsens which probably give them more of a spa like environment. I might consider that someday, but I'll stick to regular hotels for awhile. The people at Ikumatsu are really accommodating and friendly. Your breakfast is included with the stay. We shared one traditional Japanese breakfast and one "American" breakfast which consisted of scrambled eggs and cold cut ham. After eating, we tried on the yukatas they left for us (with instructions) in our pink room. The experience and serene atmosphere definitely made up for the poor night's sleep. - Mina Next Stop: Osaka! Find us on Instagram: @minaseville | @alexanderseville
The Brighton Hotel • 0 comments • The Brighton Hotel was where we chose to rest our heads during most of our time in Kyoto. It's highly rated, really clean, and relatively inexpensive if you can find a deal. It's not a luxury hotel and the beds were very much on the firm end, but I loved the amenities. You can't go wrong with shower rooms that have rainfall nozzles and a Japanese Toto. I'd definitely consider staying there if we returned and wouldn't hesitate to recommend it. - Mina
The Red Tree House • 6 comments • What can I say about The Red Tree House that hasn't already been said? They are consistently highly reviewed by guests, and with good reason. It was the first place we stayed, of what became an extensive list of B&Bs, during our "around-the-world" travels. The Red Tree House sets the bar high. Every morning you're greeted with a fresh, authentic, home-made, hot breakfast - Mexican style. If they had their own restaurant on the premises, I honestly wouldn't leave because it's that good. If nothing else, you have to go here for the breakfasts. So as not to exclude less adventurous folk, they also have fresh fruit, yogurt, cereal, croissants, churros... you name it. We've talked to so many different travellers from all over the globe at the breakfast tables. Exchanging travel itineraries with others is a great way to start the day. If you're not a social butterfly, the staff at The Red Tree House is always equipped with maps, tips, and ideas of how you can spend your day. As I've previously mentioned, we chose to go back here because we didn't have to do any planning whatsoever. After a long day on your feet, in the sun, you return to a dimly lit, cozy space. A player piano sits in the corner and the wine is flowing. Alcohol and I broke up a long time ago, so I'm content with a chamomile tea, while going over the day's stories with your new BFFs (for the few days you're there, anyway). Since the last time we were there, they've expanded to include another property, across the street. It is as impeccably decorated as the first house, with stunning, local artwork. You almost feel as if you're in an art gallery. Carlito Dalceggio is a friend of The Red Tree House and his mesmerizing murals grace many of their walls. It's tough not to wax poetic about a place that gives you so many great memories. The beautiful people at The Red Tree House helped make my birthday a night I'll never forget. I've said that I don't care to re-visit places, but I have a feeling we'll be back.
the old ice house • 10 comments • Approaching the historic 19th century ice house, beautifully restored into a cabin, was like stepping into a fairy tale. It was all so perfectly picturesque. The cabin is called the 'Ice House' because it was originally built to store blocks of ice (cut from ponds in the winter) for the summer visitors of the nearby Wellscroft Lodge. Now, it's anything but cold. We spent a few days lounging by the fire, playing cards, making popcorn and s'mores, and gazing at the stars in the evenings. - Mina
