Note, just about everything in Japan requires a reservation so make sure to book your experience.

What drew me to this kimono rental was the location near the temple and the fact that they offered tall and larger size kimonos! This is important if you’re a size 10 and up or over 5’7″ 🙂 We paid about $45 USD per person for the rentals.

We made an appointment for 9am and from start to finish it took about an hour. First, we picked out our kimono, belt, and purse and, since we opted for a hairstyle, we picked from one of about six styles. Trust me, pay for the hairstyle, it’s so cute and really completes the outfit.

After we had all the components for the kimono we went to the building next door to be dressed. In the entrance of the building we removed our shoes and were given a large tote bag. We then walked upstairs to a ladies only community dressing area.

We had worn a thin t-shirt layer which we left on under our kimono and we left our pants on until they got the first skirt layer on us which means we were never naked while being dressed by strangers. Because of the dressing situation we were not allowed to take any photos or videos so hopefully we can aptly describe the process.

As we were being dressed we put our clothes and purse (after removing important items) in the tote bag which was secured in a safe place until our return. The ladies that help you get your kimono on don’t speak much English, but they have translation cards that they show you if they need to share information with you. Honestly, the ladies are so efficient while getting you in the kimono but be prepared that there are many layers to the kimono and they cinch it tight! I kept on joking with my mom that corsets have nothing on Kimonos. About halfway through the kimono dressing we stopped to have our hair done.

Once our hair was styled all fancy, they finished getting the rest of the kimono components on us. The last step is to find a pair of sandals(flip flop style) that fit. We have large feet (size 9/10) so the sandals mostly fit but were a bit short, we made it work.

I can’t recommend this place enough! The ladies working there were so nice and helpful.

This location is so very close to the temple. It was simply a matter of walking down the alleyway to the main street then hanging a left. We then walked, uphill, less than a city block.

There are lots of places to take photos around the temple and we were fortunate to be there during the fall color change to have that added pop of colors. We didn’t walk all the way to the top of the temple because our shoes were not easy to walk in. We decided to play it safe and take photos at the base of the temple and not tempt the gods with the potential for a twisted ankle.

After we were done exploring the temple, we went in search of the matcha cloud cakes I kept on hearing about. As fate, or Japan, would have it, the cloud cakes were located half way down a very steep hill with, guess what, stairs. There is just no escaping the stairs in Japan so the best thing to do is embrace it with good shoes on or, in our case, Zori sandals.

Seating is a bit limited at kumonochi but we made our way up a narrow, steep staircase to the upstairs seating where we enjoyed a tasty cake, matcha tea, and a refreshing fruit drink.

After our matcha break it was back up the hill to the kimono rental to change back into our street clothes. Technically, we had until 6pm before we had to return our Kimonos but between the tightly cinched clothing and the uncomfortable shoes we decided our curiosity about what it’s like to wear a kimono was appeased. 

Update 2025- 

So we are getting ready for another trip to Japan this July and as I was researching what we wanted to do, I stumbled across this Kimono Shop in Kyoto that I thought I would share. 

Rikawafuku has multiple locations in Kyoto, one being in the Kiyomizu area. This shop has gorgeous kimonos to choose from. They can fit up to a 41 inch waist and about 5’.6” height. They do say if you are taller no worries the hem and sleeves just might be a little shorter. 

If you have other questions you want answered here are their FQA

Mission Point Resort offers lots of activities for couples and friends looking to enjoy Mackinac Island and its natural and historical treasures.

Located on the sunrise side of the island, Mission Point Resort offers a home away from home with lots of fun things to do.

Getting around the island by bike, private carriage, horseback

Motorize vehicles have been prohibited in the island since 1898 so you’ll have to get around using bikes or horse-drawn carriage.

There’s tandem bike rental for couples wanting to enjoy nature while staying fit together.

Another romantic activity is to go on carriage tours around Mackinac Island to the Arch Rock, Butterfly Museum, Fort Mackinac and other tourist attractions in the area.

You and your girlfriends might want to go horseback riding. Whether you’re a beginner or not, you will still enjoy this fun activity.

ALL THE THINGS TO DO ON MACKINAC ISLAND

You may want to visit during the Festival of the Horse if you really love horses. Don’t forget to come during the fall as the colorful trees adorned the streets and the whole island – you will surely be in awe at the great views whether you’re on a bike or on a horse.

Hiking along the nature trails is also another fun way to enjoy the island’s beautiful scenery.

Relax and Rejuvenate at the Lakeside Spa and Salon

If your idea of a great time with your friends is a day at the spa then a day at the Lakeside Spa and Salon will be paradise for all of you.

Mission Point Resort recommends the Lilac Facial and Body Treatment that includes a massage with lilac essential oil to firm your skin and relax your mind.

There’s also a hot stone massage, steam rooms for men and women, and a full salon.

There are couples treatment rooms available for those who come to relax with their partners.

Fish, Swim, Play Games, and other Activities

Mission Point Resort has lots of choices for couples and girlfriends who have different interests.

If you’re up for a fishing adventure, you may embark on a private fishing charter to Lake Huron where you can catch different kinds of fish.

When you’re done fishing, Mission Point chefs will cook your day’s catch and you can even bring home the fish that weren’t cooked.

If you’d like to play some games together here are some choices for you: an 18-hole putting course, croquet and bocce ball lawn, and a tennis court.

There is also an outdoor swimming pool and hot tubs, arcade, movie theater and even flower pressing activities.

WHAT TO PACK FOR MACKINAC ISLAND

Stay, Dine and Shop

You can either stay at the Main Lodge or the Straits Lodge – ask for the rooms with garden and lake views.

One of the most popular suites is the Hot Tub Junior Suite.

There are five restaurants at Mission Point Resort for different meals.

Charcuterie boards, cheese, sweet treats and premier wines abound at Reserve.

Enjoy house-made Italian pasta and sauces at Chianti.

Other restaurants include the Round Island Bar and Grill, Bistro on the Greens and Boxwood Coffeeshop and Café.

TIPS FOR VISITING MACKINAC ISLAND

Shop in Main Street’s gift shops before you return home.

Don’t miss out on Mackinac Island’s famous fudge as you shop around.

At Mission Point, two shops to visit are the Boutique and the Garden Gate Gifts, Sundries and Souvenirs.

BOOK YOUR STAY AT MISSION POINT RESORT

Book your stay at Mission Point Resort before the season ends!

Enjoy a great resort stay and looking for some fun in the sun?  Check out my pick for the Best Sandals Resort!

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It was an invite to Sandals OCHI all-inclusive resort in Jamaica for their grand re-opening.

I could hardly believe it. Most of the travel I arrange on my own with only a few press trips thrown in over the course of a year.

This press trip invite was my first international invite and I was over the moon.

What I didn’t know then was how much I was going to be able to relax and recharge at Sandals OCHI Resort.

READ: What You Need To Know Before You Go

Usually, press trips are packed from sun up to sun down with back to back activities, but during this trip the resort wanted us to explore and enjoy the property.

Great move on their part as I was able to use the resort, just as any other guest would, giving me a great non-press experience.

Alan and I spent 4 nights relaxing under the Jamaican sun, eating delicious food, enjoying cocktails and just absorbing the wonderful culture of Sandals OCHI resort.

This was our very first all-inclusive experience and even though there were a few bumps along the way we quickly adjusted to resort life. By day 2 I was fully enjoying Sandals OCHI all-inclusive resort.

Sandals OCHI is the largest Sandals property at 100 acres and offers three distinct sections and 16 different room categories.

Honestly, the hardest choice you’ll have to make is what room category you’d like and I’m pretty sure you can’t go wrong with any of them.

There are numerous pools on the property and a very nice beach giving a variety of locations to cool off or just sit and enjoy the sun and outdoors.

16 restaurants and 11 bars made sure we were never hungry or thirsty and when we didn’t feel like going out we ordered room service which was included with our stay.

WHERE TO STAY, EAT, DRINK AND PLAY AT

WHERE TO STAY AT SANDALS OCHI

Accommodations are offered on both the beach side and the hillside of the resort.

Each offers something different and with 16 different categories, there are rooms to fit every budget.

Beachside rooms offer quick access to the beach while hillside villas come with butler service.

A complete list of all the rooms and prices available at Sandals OCHI all-inclusive resort can be found by clicking here.

Rooms start at $230 per person and go up to $431 per person for the Romeo and Juliet suites that are fantastic for a honeymoon!

The Romeo and Juliet suites include an enclosed private pool and sitting room and is located on the hillside, all-butler village.

We had a room with a semi-private pool, shared with our neighbors, which worked out perfectly.

It was nice being able to step from our room to the pool for a quick dip in the evening.

WHERE TO EAT

Jerk, Italian, Sushi, Mediterranean, American and more await to tempt your taste buds at Sandals OCHI resort.

There are so many great restaurants and with our short stay, we only had the opportunity to try a few of them.

For breakfast, most of the restaurants are buffet style but there are two, Valentino’s and Le Gourmand, that offer a la carte style ordering.

The restaurants are scattered around the resort that opens during different times of the day to ensure you have something to eat when you are hungry.

We really enjoyed Kimonos (reservations required) which is only opened for dinner and food is prepared teppanyaki style.

Valentino’s offers great water views, white table covers and very attentive staff that greets you by name.

For a quick and easy snack or lunch, we would visit Tapas on the Riviera which is located on the beach side.

The beachside also has the Sky Vista restaurant which offers such pretty views of the ocean with both indoor and outdoor seating.

WHERE TO DRINK AT SANDALS OCHI

Eleven bars are strategically placed around the resort ensuring you are never far from your next cocktail.

The resort offers guests premium, top-shelf liquors as part of their stay.

Enjoy drinks made with Smirnoff, Johnnie Walker, Jack Daniels, Crown Royal and many more.

Ask your bartender to make you their specialty drink.

I enjoyed a variety of cocktails including Bob Marley, Superman, Nonya (named so because the waitress wouldn’t/couldn’t tell us what it was so we dubbed it “nonya” business), Jamaican smile, rum punch, and a few others.

Sometimes I just kept it simple and had whiskey on the rocks. If you have a favorite drink, most likely, the bartenders can make it for you.

The first speakeasy in the Caribbean is at Sandals OCHI. A code word is required for entrance and changes daily. Simply ask a resort employee and they will share the word of the day with you.

My favorite bar is located next to SkyVista restaurant and overlooks the ocean. We enjoyed many cocktails and coffee from this bar while enjoying the views.

There are also a number of swim-up bars that make it convenient to enjoy a cocktail without ever having to get out of the water.

Needless to say, I enjoyed many cocktails during our visit.

WHERE TO PLAY AT SANDALS OCHI

ALL water sports are included with your stay at Sandals OCHI all-inclusive resort.

Want to go snorkeling? It’s included.

How about scuba diving? 2 tanks a day is part of your stay.

If you aren’t SCUBA certified you can become certified for an extra fee.

There is also kayaking, sailing, paddle boarding, glass bottom boat tours, water bikes and more are available at the Aqua Center.

Some of the water sports require reservations and only go out at select times so be sure to check the Aqua Center schedule and plan accordingly.

On Tuesdays and Sundays, outdoor movies are shown at 830pm.

The movie screen is on the lawn next to the Rabbit Hole Speakeasy and has a popcorn wagon stocked with movie treats.

Most of the pools on the property are part of villas, but there are still many large pools available for public use.

Be sure to find the hidden pool over near the amphitheater on the beach side. The pool at the OCHI Beach Club has a great swim up bar and is only a few steps from the ocean.

We would order drinks at the bar (1/2 the bar is poolside the other 1/2 is on dry land) and then wander over to the beach to enjoy our cocktail while watching pretty fish swim around.

There are activities and events happening around the resort throughout the day. Be sure to check the daily newsletter, available at the front desk, for a complete list of the day’s entertainment.

Play chess or take a siesta in a hammock. There are tennis courts, golf courses, fitness center,  piano bar, beach parties and so much more than I don’t have room to list are all included in your stay.

Want to relax more and play less? Book an oceanside massage with Red Lane Spa.

One thing I learned very quickly during my visit is that at Sandals OCHI there is no limit on fun.

If you are looking for an adults only vacation that offers delicious food, endless cocktails, and unlimited water and land sports look no further than the newly re-opened Sandals OCHI all-inclusive resort in Jamaica.

More importantly, if you want a vacation that allows you to return home relaxed and recharged I recommend considering Sandals OCHI Resort. I know we are already plotting and planning a return visit to a Sandals property.

For more details visit www.sandals.com/

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No suitcase required. I didn’t think it could be done, but I made it happen. It was so nice not dragging a big suitcase around behind me.

Yes, the backpack was pretty full, but I carried it with ease and had everything I needed for my adventure. It does require some tough decisions on what you can take, but if you want to travel light this is the way to go.

My backpack was a 40L pack that I picked up over at Amazon. Note, it does come in colors other than purple.

I packed enough clothes, all my essentials, and my computer and charging cords. And I got everything to fit nicely right inside a 40L backpack.

Using this method you can spend less time worrying about luggage making it to your destination and more time having fun.

Note, the video quality is pretty good, but I want to put a disclaimer that I am NOT a professional videographer nor do I claim to be one.

These videos, however, should give you a good feel for what I packed and how I packed it for a 2-week adventure to Italy and Ireland.

This backpack fits nicely above your seat on the plane so you save money on checked luggage fees and saves you time not having to wait for your luggage to show up at baggage claim.

Imagine all the time and money you just saved simply by using a small bag and packing less. It’s win-win all around.

The backpack I used is an eBag TLS Mother Lode Weekender Convertible Junior.

There is a non-junior version that is bigger, but it was too much for what I needed so I stuck with the junior version and was very happy.

I also used Eagle Creek packing cubes to organize bathroom items, electronics, and dirty clothes. This was my first time using packing cubes, but definitely won’t be the last. I love how easy it is to find items in my pack because of the cubes.

In addition to the backpack, I also carried a Travelon Anti-theft Classic Messenger Style Crossbody purse. Here’s a video about the purse and why I love it.

I have to give a great big THANK YOU shout out to Chico’s for providing me with two outfits for this adventure.

More travel tips: Travel clothes that make a curvy girl look good and some cold weather travel clothes options

What to Pack for a 2 Week Vacation: Technology

1 small laptop + cord
1 cell phone + cord
1 Canon P&S camera

What to Pack for a 2 Week Vacation: Essentials

1 travel umbrella
1 mini flashlight
2 electrical converters (1 for Ireland, 1 for Italy)
1 door lock
1 laundry cord
1 packet tide soap (inside two ziplock bags to prevent leakage on clothes)
1 mini lint brush roller
1 Tide To-Go pen
1 Bleach pen
1 small first aid kit
1 small bathroom kit (toothbrush, paste, makeup, hair stuff)

What to Pack for a 2 Week Vacation: Clothes

1 White Capri
1 Black Capri
1 Black pant
1 Black maxi skirt
1 Black & white top (Knit Kit line)
1 Royal Blue shirt
2 Royal Blue & Light Blue Tank Tops
1 Cardigan
1 lightweight jacket
1 Multi-blue scarf
1 silver necklace
1 silver pair earrings
5 undergarmets
1 bra
1 pair sandals
1 Skeetchers GoWalk Slip-on shoes, black
1 pajama

Don’t forget a crushable travel hat!

Note, all my clothes are in the same color family allowing me to mix and match everything. I had 4 bottoms and 5 tops for a total of 20 outfits to wear during my two-week holiday.

What About Cell Phone Coverage in Europe?

I’m a Verizon customer (have been for forever) so it was simple enough to enroll in the Verizon Travel Pass plan to use my data, text and talk while visiting Europe. Verizon charges a small daily fee of $10/day to use your plan. If there is a day you don’t need or use it you don’t pay. Easy as that.

I found many wi-fi hot spots throughout Italy & Ireland to check in on social media and used the phone to stay connected with family back home.

****How To Pack A Backpack For A 2 Week Vacation****

I’m sharing tips for what first-time visitors need to know before going to one of the best Sandals resorts for your next all-inclusive vacation, Sandals Ochi Resort in Jamaica.

Planning for my first trip to Sandals Resort had me a bit tied up in knots.

The Best Sandals Resort

I had never visited an all-inclusive resort before and I had absolutely no idea what to expect, what to pack, or what, if anything, I had to plan.

In the end, it turns out I worried over little things for absolutely no reason.

To make your first visit to Sandals OCHI resort in Jamaica stress-free, I’m sharing some tips and tricks to help you have a fantastic getaway.

Loving the resort and the casual, laid back atmosphere!

What to Pack for an All Inclusive Sta at the Best Sandals Resort

This was a tough one for me. I live in northern Michigan where summers are short, which means I don’t really have a summer wardrobe.

Two pairs of capris and a couple of short-sleeved shirts are enough for our summer, but I figured I might need a little more variety for four nights, five days in Jamaica.

Packing for both Alan and I required a little shopping. Alan owned absolutely nothing that was island worthy.

A quick trip to a couple of stores took care of the problem and we now have island worthy clothes for all future adventures.

My packing list: 

2 pair capris (1-navy, 1-white)
1 pair palazzo pants (fancy, for dress up dinners)
1 pair of lightweight pants
1 summer weight sweater (I love this simple cardigan style)
2 t-shirts
3 casual tops
2 tank tops
1 swimsuit
1 cover up
undergarments/pajamas
4 pairs of shoes (sandals, 2-flip-flops, closed toe)

Ok, I probably over packed, but I like having choices.

Alan’s packing list: 

3 pair of shorts
1 pair of lightweight pants
1 pair of jeans
4 t-shirts
3 button down shirts
1 swim trunks
undergarments/sleep shorts
2 pairs of shoes (sandals, closed-toe shoes)

What to Expect at a Sandals Resort

Needless to say, attire at the resort is very laid back and casual. Most people are in swimsuits or shorts and t-shirts all day.

You will need at least one nice outfit for dinner. No shorts/swimwear is allowed for dinner so be sure to pack a nice outfit for you and pants, collared shirt and closed toe shoes for him.

The best Sandals resort experience includes a ton of time on the beach so don’t forget to pack and use sunblock.

We also packed hats, sunglasses, and aloe.

The electrical outlets at Sandals OCHI are the same we use in the States so no need to pack a converter box.

Tips For Planning Your Stay

When Sandals OCHI says all-inclusive they mean it.

Food, top-shelf alcohol, water sports, and entertainment is all included.

The biggest decision you will have to make is what type of room you’ll want during your stay. We were on the butler side which is across the street from the beach and a little quieter.

If you want more of a party atmosphere then consider staying on the beach side and closer to the OCHI beach club, which is a lot of fun!

When you make your resort reservation be sure to look over the list of restaurants and decide where you might want to eat dinner.

Three of the restaurants currently require reservations for dinner.

I recommend making those when you book your stay so you aren’t disappointed. The three include Kelly’s Dockside (available to those with butler-side accommodations), Le Gourmand and Kimonos.

The weather can be unpredictable during May and June. Plan accordingly by packing an umbrella and NOT letting the weather hamper your fun.

I prefer using the Totes Mini Umbrella since it is so convenient to go in my backpack or carryon bag.  We played outside in light rain and only dashed for cover during the occasional downpour that passed along quickly.

Tip for Airport Transportation

Save yourself the hassle of driving to and from the airport and let Blacklane do the driving for you. It’s easy enough to schedule a pick up from home to the airport and from the airport back home.

I love not having to deal with parking and dragging my luggage through parking lots. Blacklane will drop you at the departures door and be there when you arrive back home.

I’ve used Blacklane in the past and like the professional service they provide.

What To Expect At OCHI Sandals Resort

One of the many sitting areas throughout the resort

Sandals OCHI is a large property that offers both a beachfront and hillside setting. Upon arrival at the airport, immediately after you clear customs, you will cross through a set of double doors, turn to your left and you will be at the Sandals Lounge.

Look for Sandals employees standing outside the lounge and check in with them. They will tag your luggage with your resort destination and let you know when your transfer will be ready.

Go inside the lounge and grab a Red Stripe beer or other refreshing drink and relax. You are now on Jamaican time and there are absolutely no worries.

Go prepared to tip those who help with your stay

Be sure to take tip money for the airport red capped porters that take your luggage to the transfer van.

We tip $2/bag, but tip what you feel is appropriate. You will also need to tip on the return trip as well. Once you are on resort property all tips are included with your stay.

At check-in be sure to ask for a map of the property AND a daily newsletter. These are available at all locations and are part of why the best Sandals resort experience is a given anytime you book with this group.

Both of these will be instrumental in not feeling overwhelmed by the resort experience.

It took me about a day and a half to really feel comfortable about how things worked at the resort.

Tips for Food & Activities at the Resort

Use the daily newsletter as a reference throughout the day. There are 16 restaurants on site, but they are not all open at the same time. The newsletter lists hours of operation and the map shows you where they are located.

TIP: Dino’s Pizza and The Grand Cafe are the same area, which took me a day to figure out.

Activities and times are also listed in the newsletter. Some of the water activities require sign up in advance so just be aware so you can plan accordingly.

Pick up a newsletter each morning from the front desk and tuck in your tote bag for the day. It makes things much easier.

WIFI is available at the resort and the connection is fantastic. I participated in a twitter party during my visit and shared photos across multiple social media platforms without any issues.

All about the alcohol

TIP: On your return home if you shop at Duty-Free absolutely, positively ask that the liquor be placed in a clear, tamper-proof bag and NOT any other type of packaging.

In Jamaica, they placed ours in a small brown box and used packaging tape to secure. This is not acceptable with TSA and they made me check the box once I landed stateside.

Let’s just say not all my alcohol made it home because I was not able to package it properly before having to check it.

Busted bottles of liquor at your home airport is very depressing. I suggest buying liquor at the resort so you can properly package it and store in your luggage.

I wrap bottles in a number of plastic bags and place between layers of clothes and have never had a problem.

Don’t miss out on the ultimate best Sandals resort experience!  Book your stay with OCHI Sandals resort for an all-inclusive vacation your family will love!

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