Travel Movie: Lost in Translation

Sometimes your trip just isn't as great as you expect. When visiting a country with a big language and cultural difference to your own, there is an opportunity to feel isolated - especially if you're alone.

The 2003 movie Lost in Translation captures this feeling perfectly. Neglected honeymooner Charlotte (Scarlett Johanneson) and bored movie star Bob (Bill Murray) have trouble connecting in an unfamiliar place as they meet in a Japanese hotel. The muted backdrop of Tokyo is both exotic and unwelcoming as they struggle to break through the loneliness.

Verdict: Rent it

Japan Earthquake and Tsunami Updates

As the devastation from the Japan earthquake and tsunami unfolds, we'll keep you updated with what's happening in Tokyo, Sendai, Fukushimi and other areas of Japan at the moment.

Tokyo: there has been major infrastructure damage, and train and subway schedules have been reduced to save power. Service to Narita airport has been suspended. There is a shortage of electricity, food and water. There are continued aftershocks that could reach as high as 7 on the richter scale. Tokyo is at the moment... (read more)

UPDATE: Here's an updated article about the effect of the Japan earthquake on travel.

Win a Trip to Tokyo!

Here's one for the Aussies:

To celebrate the release of the animated film Megamind, you can win a trip for a family of four to Tokyo! The 5-day, 4-night trip includes flights to Japan, accommodation, spending money, tours, and superhero training.

You can enter here.

Japan

If you're thinking about going to Japan, don't make the mistake of spending your whole trip in Tokyo! There's much more to the fun and enigmatic country, including the beautiful city of Osaka! That's where you'll find the famous Bunraku Puppet Theatre, and if you're there in March you can catch a clash of giants in one of the largest sporting events in the country, the Sumo Spring Grand Tournament!

There are many other cities in Japan that are worth seeing, including the peace memorial in Hiroshima, the Shofukuji Temple in Fukuoka, and skiing in Sapporo. Japan has its own unique take on nearly everything, so don't miss out!

(photo by Jesslee Cuizon)