Themed cafes are a staple throughout Japan. From crafty 3D Art Latte to Pokémon to even dog cafes. You'll be hard-pressed to find a themed cafe that doesn't intrigue you in some way.

Trust me.

In this episode, Trish and I discuss all the different themed cafes we've experienced. Sharing with you our favourite locations and more importantly, information on how these cafes work. They all don't work how you think!

Have you visited a themed cafe in Japan? Share with us your favourite one!

This doesn't need much introduction. Places around the world continue to close temporarily in response to the coronavirus (COVID-19). This includes Tokyo Disney Resort, Universal Studios Japan, Hong Kong Disneyland, Shanghai Disneyland over in Asia. We also have Disneyland Paris, Disneyland, Walt Disney World, and the Disney Cruise Line also closing.

This means every Disney Park in the world is going to be closed at the same time.

We're living history.

In this special episode of the TDR Now Podcast, Trish and I discuss what the closures mean for the Disney Parks in Asia. Also, what steps to take for refunds and what the Resorts are doing.

Stay updated on what's going on with our page regarding these closures.

Get caught up with the news that happened in February 2020 at the theme parks in Asia! A lot is going on and we recap it for you.

• Tokyo DisneySea Expansion delayed until 2023
• Tokyo Disney Resort ticket price increase
• Harry Potter "Theme Park" may be coming to Tokyo
• Universal Studios Beijing News
• Hong Kong Disneyland & Shanghai Disneyland close due to Coronavirus
• Super Nintendo World opens summer 2020 at Universal Studios Japan

Let us know if you enjoy these types of recaps episodes in the comments!

Cool Japan 2020 is underway at Universal Studios Japan. It started on January 21 and runs until June 28, 2020. Featuring mega-hit franchises such as Lupin the Third, Monster Hunter, Conan the Detective, and Attack on Titan.

Trish was at Universal Studios Japan bright and early on the first day. In this episode, she shares her thoughts on why Cool Japan 2020 is worth visiting at Universal Studios Japan. Don't worry, we explain everything you need to know.

It's on the news around the globe. You know what I'm talking about. Coronavirus.

Sadly, it's affected theme parks in Asia including Hong Kong Disneyland and Ocean Park in Hong Kong. Followed by Shanghai Disney Resort in Mainland China.

In this episode, we discuss what this could mean for your trip. What to do. How to stay safe and more importantly, how to stay informed.

Read our updated information on the theme parks and the coronavirus.

There's a lot of stress that comes with planning a trip to an unfamiliar country. One of which is knowing how to be a good guest in the country you're visiting. I totally get it, it's stressful.

Japan has a lot of written and unwritten rules when it comes to etiquette and manners. As a traveller, it's up to you to inform yourself. We all want to be good guests right? Right.

As a visitor, you aren't held up to the same standard as the locals. You're forgiven for making mistakes. But, having a little knowledge goes a long way.

In this episode, we dive deep into etiquette and manners at the theme parks throughout Japan (a lot applies outside the Parks too). What you should and shouldn't do. It makes not only for a pleasant trip for you but for everyone around you.

Ready? Let's go!

The winter months at Tokyo Disney Resort see lower crowds due to the cold weather. To tempt locals and tourists alike to visit during this time, the Resort offers fun and engaging events. New for 2020 is the "Very Very Minnie" event that is all about our queen, Minnie Mouse. While over at Tokyo DisneySea we see the return of Pixar Playtime & Duffy's Heartwarming Days.

Trish and I discuss these winter events and tell you why the "Very Very Minnie" event is fantastic for Minnie Mouse fans.

We're still allowed to talk about Christmas right? Right? Well, we're kicking off 2020 with Trish sharing her time at Universal Studios Japan during their Christmas event. Universal Studios Japan is a must-visit on your next trip to Japan. If this wonderful Park in Osaka wasn't on your radar, it really needs to be.

Without a doubt, Starbucks is one of the most recognizable brands in the world. The first Starbucks outside of North America opened in Japan back in 1996 (at the height of the Spice Girls' fame). Japan has been home to many "firsts" such as the first Disney Park to open outside the United States with Tokyo Disney Resort in 1983. The country has a way of taking a familiar essence and creating a new-yet-familiar experience.

In this episode, we take a break from theme parks and discuss our favourite Starbucks locations throughout Japan. From the megacity of Tokyo to the lesser-known spots. Japan has a bustling coffee culture so it comes at no surprise that Starbucks Japan has its own spin on familiar favourites.

Shibuya Sky is the newest attraction in Tokyo directly on the rooftop the brand-new Shibuya Scramble Square. This rooftop attraction boasts one of the best views of the city. In this episode, Trish and I talk about our experience visiting Shibuya Sky along with a few tips for your visit.

Shibuya Sky is by advance tickets through the official website. I recommend booking well in advance to get the day and time you want.

https://www.shibuya-scramble-square.com/sky/brand/en/