برچسب: Better

  • Which Japanese Snack Box is Better?

    Which Japanese Snack Box is Better?


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    Hey there snack lovers! Micki here. If you’re craving a taste of authentic Japanese treats, you’ve probably heard of the popular subscription boxes Sakuraco and Bokksu. Both deliver a selection of authentic Japanese goodies to your door each month, but how do they compare?

    Sakuraco vs Bokksu review with Seasons of Sakura and bokksu box

    Our family of four took a closer look at Sakuraco and Bokksu to help you decide which one might be the better choice for you.

    Curious to try one of these boxes for yourself? Keep reading to find out which one might be your perfect match!

    Let the showdown begin!

    See Sakuraco here.

    First Impressions

    Packaging & Presentation

    Both the Sakuraco and Bokksu boxes landed on our doorstep in great condition and were the exact same size. The first thing we noticed? Sakuraco’s packaging was elegant and understated with gold accents on a light pink background, while Bokksu had a shinier orange box.

    Sakuraco felt like a luxe gift, perfect for a tea party, whereas Bokksu was more like your everyday Japanese snack box.

    Sakuraco vs Bokksu boxes on top of each other

    Culture Guides & Booklets

    Inside, both boxes came with über-informative booklets, diving deep into Japanese culture and the story behind each snack.

    This is actually the third Sakuraco box we’ve tried, and I have to say, the attention to detail and cultural insights in their guides never disappoints. All three boxes have been consistently packed with high-quality treats and fascinating tidbits about Japan.

    Opening and looking inside Bokksu and Sakuraco Seasons of Sakura

    The Snacks

    Sakuraco’s Seasons of Sakura Box

    Alright, let’s get to the good stuff. Sakuraco’s Seasons of Sakura box was bursting with authentic Japanese treats, from delicate sakura mochi to crispy senbei crackers.

    The traditional wagashi sweets, like the Sakura Daifuku and Sakura Manju, were melt-in-your-mouth amazing.

    And can we talk about that adorable sakura sake glass? Totally Instagram-worthy.

    I absolutely loved the fragrant, sweet sakura tea. I’ve never had cherry blossom tea before, so it was such a treat!

    I loved the sakura daifuku, which are soft, sakura-infused mochi over a sweet white bean paste. So good!

    The adorable little sakura konpeito candies were real winners in our family. So cute!

    Overall, all of the treats in the Sakuraco box felt carefully chosen, and beautiful to look at, as well as tasty to eat.

    Visit the Sakuraco website now.

    snacks inside the Sakuraco Seasons of Sakura box

    Bokksu’s Sakura Sunset Glow Box

    Meanwhile, Bokksu’s Sakura Sunset Glow box boasted some tempting treats. The Almond Chocolate Sand Kokuto Caramel cookie, made with Okinawian kokuto sugar, was a caramelly dream, with an interesting burnt caramel taste that we were divided on. I liked it, but my two teens definitely didn’t.

    The anno imo sweet potato financier was a definite thumbs down from all of us, we found the heavy dough a bit too cloying and not light or sweet enough for our taste.

    However, the Japanese Valencia Orange Cake, studded with juicy orange peel? That was delicious with a cup of the White Peach Rooibos Tea.

    Traditional vs Trendy Treats

    Both boxes served up a satisfying mix of sweet and savory, but Sakuraco definitely leaned into the traditional with items like the Sakura Kohakuto candy and the light and crunchy Kabukiage crackers.

    Bokksu, on the other hand, had some fun fusion snacks, like the Gluten-Free Sakura Matcha Gaufrettes.

    Glassware

    Sakuraco’s the clear winner here, with their gorgeous sakura sake glass. Crafted in collaboration between Sakuraco and Ishizuca glass artisans, the glass is decorated with a delicate golden sakura. It feels delicate, but sturdy.

    Bokksu didn’t offer any sort of glass or bowl, making Sakuraco the hands down winner here.

    Sake glass

    Sakuraco vs Bokksu for Special Diets

    Allergens & Vegetarian Options

    If you have dietary restrictions, you’ll be happy to know that both Sakuraco and Bokksu clearly mark allergens and vegetarian-friendly snacks in their handy booklets.

    In the Seasons of Sakura box, treats like the adorably packaged Sakura Konpeito candies and Ryokucha Usuyaki tea cookies got the veggie thumbs up. Over in camp Bokksu, the Soft Sakura Mochi and Lan-de-boule Caramel Sand Cookie were among the vegetarian options.

    Sakura konpeito
    Sakura konpeito

    While not every single item is suitable for those with allergies or plant-based diets, there’s still plenty to enjoy in both boxes. Just be sure to look at those info guides before diving in!

    Pro tip: If you have severe allergies or follow a strict diet, reach out to the Sakuraco or Bokksu customer service teams before ordering. They’re always happy to help you determine which box is the safest snacking choice for you!

    Ume Senbei
    Ume Senbei

    The Verdict: Sakuraco: Our winner!

    So, which box takes the (rice) cake? Honestly, we lean pretty strongly toward Sakuraco.

    To begin with, we loved the gorgeous sake glass included in our Sakuraco order, which made the entire box feel premium and elegant. Bokksu didn’t offer anything similar.

    On top of that, if you’re keen on immersing yourself in traditional Japanese tea culture, Sakuraco’s elegant curation and bonus home goods give it an edge. The Ryokucha Usuyaki tea cookies were particularly charming touches.

    Overall, our family just felt that the Sakuraco box felt more premium. The treats were also tied closely to the theme, even down to the color.

    So, how did the taste compare? Well, that’s pretty subjective, but my personal favorites were all Sakuraco. I loved the sweet sakura tea. I’ve never had cherry blossom tea before, so it was a real treat!

    I loved the sakura daifuku, which are soft, mochi over a sweet white bean paste. So good! The adorable little sakura konpeito candies were a huge hit as well!

    sweet Sakura tea
    sweet Sakura tea

    Pricing & Shipping

    Pricewise, Sakuraco starts at $37.50/month for a one month subscription, while Bokksu starts at $39.99/month for their one month subscription. Both offer pay-as-you-go options if you just want to dip a toe in.

    Ume Okoshi
    Ume Okoshi

    Bottom Line

    The final verdict? We’re huge fans of Sakuraco for a sophisticated, immersive cherry blossom experience. Your taste buds are in for an adventure! Until next time, happy snacking!

    Try Sakuraco here.



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  • Why a Red-Eye Flight Is the Better Choice for Solo Travellers

    Why a Red-Eye Flight Is the Better Choice for Solo Travellers


    Travelling solo can be an empowering experience, offering freedom and flexibility unmatched by group trips. However, navigating crowded airports, enduring long queues, and managing tight schedules can sometimes make solo journeys more overwhelming than liberating. That’s where red-eye flights come in—a travel option that transforms these challenges into opportunities for a smoother, more focused journey.

    Flying overnight may not be everyone’s first choice, but it holds particular appeal for solo travellers seeking convenience and efficiency. With fewer crowds, quieter terminals, and unique time-saving advantages, red-eye flights cater to the independence and adaptability that solo adventurers often value most.

    Wondering which travel time is best for you? This article explores why choosing a red-eye flight could be the smartest move for your next solo trip, offering practical insights to make your journey as seamless and stress-free as possible.

    Quieter Airports and Streamlined Security

    One of the most immediate benefits of flying red-eye is the serenity of a nearly empty airport. With most travellers opting for daytime flights, late-night departures mean fewer people and a less chaotic atmosphere. For solo travellers, this translates to easier navigation, quicker check-ins, and shorter queues at security checkpoints. Gone are the moments of jostling through packed terminals or waiting endlessly in line—everything moves faster in the airport during the wee hours.

    For those arriving or departing through busy hubs like Singapore, this quieter experience can be a game-changer. After landing, you can avoid the hassle of bustling daytime crowds by planning ahead and booking hotels near Singapore airport. Not only does this offer a convenient place to rest, but it also ensures a seamless transition from your flight to the next phase of your journey. These minor adjustments can make solo travel significantly more manageable and stress-free.

    Flexibility in Seating Choices

    Flying solo gives you an undeniable advantage when it comes to securing the perfect seat. Red-eye flights, with their reduced passenger numbers, take this benefit even further by offering more options for that coveted spot. Without the pressure of competing with large groups or families, you’re more likely to find a seat that fits your preferences—whether it’s for extra legroom, a quick exit, or a peaceful corner to settle in for the journey.

    Moreover, the lighter passenger load often means empty seats nearby, giving you extra space to stretch out and relax. For solo travellers, this added comfort can make a significant difference, especially on longer journeys. Being able to select your ideal seat with minimal hassle enhances the overall experience, making a red-eye flight an even more appealing choice for those venturing alone.

    Time to Focus and Recharge

    Red-eye flights offer something rarely found during the day—uninterrupted quiet. This unique window of calm can be a golden opportunity for solo travellers to focus on small personal goals or simply recharge. Whether it’s catching up on reading, journalling your travel experiences, or revising your itinerary, the stillness of an overnight flight provides the ideal environment for reflection and productivity.

    Beyond personal projects, this quiet time also allows you to unwind after a hectic day of travel preparations. Without the distractions of a bustling cabin or frequent announcements, you can settle into your own world, free from interruptions. Solo travellers often cherish this solitude, using it to prepare mentally and emotionally for the adventures that lie ahead. By the time you land, you’ll feel more centred and ready to make the most of your destination.

    Cost Savings

    Travelling solo often means managing every expense carefully, and red-eye flights can be a great way to stretch your travel funds. Due to lower demand, these flights cost less than their daytime counterparts, making them an attractive option for budget-conscious adventurers. The money saved on airfare can then be redirected to other travel priorities, such as unique experiences, upgraded accommodations, or even an extended itinerary.

    Aside from ticket prices, red-eye flights also help reduce costs in other ways. Since you’re flying overnight, you can save on a night’s accommodation by sleeping on the plane. For solo travellers, who often juggle multiple expenses on their own, these savings can add up quickly. Ultimately, choosing a red-eye flight is not only a practical decision but also a strategic one, as it allows you to enjoy more of what your destination has to offer without compromising your budget.

    Efficient Use of Travel Time

    For solo travellers, time is one of the most valuable resources and going on a red-eye flight allows you to make the most of it. As overnight travel lets you combine transit with rest, you can turn what could be downtime into a productive part of your journey. By the time the plane touches down, you’re ready to jump into your itinerary without wasting precious daylight hours.

    This efficiency is particularly appealing for those with tight schedules or ambitious itineraries. Imagine landing early in the morning, grabbing breakfast at a local café, and starting your adventure before the city even wakes up. For business travellers, it means heading directly to meetings without sacrificing a day to transit. Red-eye flights seamlessly integrate travel into your schedule, ensuring you maximise every moment of your solo journey.

    Red-eye flights may not be for everyone. For solo travellers, however, they offer distinct advantages that are hard to ignore. From efficient use of time to significant savings, these flights align perfectly with the needs of independent adventurers. So, consider taking to the skies at night on your next solo trip, as it might just turn out to be the wiser, more rewarding option for your journey.



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  • Is Level8 Adventurer Carry-on Better a Better Performer?

    Is Level8 Adventurer Carry-on Better a Better Performer?


    As travelers, we all know the importance of a good piece of luggage. Traveling is stressful enough, so minimizing the number of things that can go wrong on a trip is important. Aside from your passport, your suitcase is undoubtedly the most important thing you’ll have to rely on when you travel. But how do you know which one to choose when there are so many out there? In this post I’ll give you my honest opinion about a piece of luggage that truly convinced me: the Level8 Adventurer Carry-on.

    Level8 Adventurer Carry-on
    Level8 Adventurer Carry-on

    Why Choose Level8 Luggage

    A few years ago I tried my first Level8 suitcase. More precisely, the Level8 Pro Carry-on Spinner Luggage with front pocket and double TSA locks. And I truly fell in love with it! I’ve taken the suitcase on about 6-7 trips across the world already. Most of the time as a carry-on luggage, but I even checked it in a couple of times and it did hold up pretty well. No complaints so far.

    But then I discovered that Level8 came up with a new addition, the Adventurer Carry-on, so I decided to give it a try. So in this post I’ll give you my honest opinion about it.

    How Does Level8 Adventurer Differ from Other Carry-ons

    What I found most attractive about the Adventurer Carry-on is the front side-lid opening design which offers easier access to your cloths and maximizes the space in the main compartment. This also allows you to open your suitcase quickly in an airport, without having to place it flat on the floor. No more unzipping the whole bag!! It’s also convenient if you want to keep it open on a luggage rack in your hotel room.

    opened carry-on suitcase
    Side lid opening design

    The exterior material is German-made Makrolon® polycarbonate, while the interior: 100% RPET recycled polyester.

    image of a wide trolley handle
    Wide trolley handle

    Other Features:

    • Wide Trolley Handle: this suitcase offers an adjustable telescopic wide trolley handle. This revolutionary design is ultra-sturdy and provides enhanced stability. It also has the advantage of creating more interior space for packing.
    • Expandable zipper: this feature conveniently allows for further expansion of the suitcase. This gives you 5 liters and 24 inches extra space for travel essentials. It holds lots of stuff!
    • Dual-spinner wheels: this system with precision ball bearings ensures smooth handling and lasting durability, no matter the terrain. The wheels are not only smooth, but also very quiet.
    • TSA-approved lock: this not only ensures the security of your belongings, but also saves you from the inconvenience of having your lock permanently damaged during a routine security inspection.
    • Interior compression: this packing system keeps your belongings neatly secured during travel.
    image depicting dual-spinner wheels
    Dual-spinner wheels

    I really like the Level8 products! Although I have bought more expensive bags in the past, most of them lacked some of the features that this company provides. Plus I’m absolutely loving the striking yellow and black color scheme of the Adventurer Carry-on!

    dual zipper suitcase
    Dual-zipper

    The Best News

    The best news is that Level8 Adventurer meets all the requirements for any airline carry on. This is key for me, considering that the airlines changed the carry-on rules recently. With this suitcase and a good travel backpack I have all I needed for one or two weeks away for travel.

    Why Buy Level8 Adventurer Carry-on

    They offer a big variety of luggage for both check-in and carry on. But what’s more important, they put a lot of effort into building sturdy, reliable suitcases that are meant to last.

    What I mostly like is the reliability of their dual-spinner wheels system which delivers unmatched durability and an ultra-quiet ride. They are engineered with a Covestro AG polycarbonate case, designed to conquer Europe’s cobblestones with ease. What’s really impressive is the fact that they are backed by a lifetime guarantee. They also show less than 2mm of wear after an incredible 276,000 rotations. This is the quality test that most other brands fail.

    FOR 10% DISCOUNT ON ALL PRODUCTS, GO TO Level8 Catalog
    choose whatever you like and enter the exclusive code “agalffy10” when you check out. 

    Don’t Miss the Packing Cube Travel Set!

    If you want to pack even smarter, you can complete your Level8 Adventurer carry on with the 4-piece Packing Cube Travel Set. These are good for garments, gadgets, or grooming essentials and will make your packing way more efficient. A great way to keep your belongings dry and organized.

    The packing cubes are made of a two-tone polyester that fights mildew and repels water and have detachable rubber patches for quick identification. The cubes dimensions are as follows:

    Dimensions:
    Garment Cube: 18″L x 12″W x 4″D (46 x 31 x 10 cm)
    Journey Cube for Worn Attire or Footwear: 12″L x 9″W x 4″D (31 x 23 x 10 cm)
    Electronics Cube: 9″L x 5.9″W x 3.9″D (23 x 15 x 10 cm)
    Grooming & Beauty Essentials Pouch: 9″L x 5.9″W x 3.9″D (23 x 15 x 10 cm)

    Note: Level8 Group provided me with this suitcase for review. However, the opinions expressed in this article are based on my own experiences with this piece of luggage.



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