HANEDA

It must have been 15 if not more years ago when we last flown into Haneda Airport. It is such a delight, a quaint spot with no signs of stress. The setting is user friendly, and unlike the frigid superstructures mobbed by top brands and their vulgar followers we are accustomed in major airports, Haneda is in a class of her own. It is Autumn and it is only natural for the orange-red maple leaves to be the dominant color.  There are so many 'wow factors' as you step off the plane. The staff is super friendly, English speaking and efficient.  Best of all whether you take the airport bus or the express metro system you will be in mid town Ginza within the hour. Will we fly into Narita again, most unlikely!    

One more foodie remark, do not miss the rather representative sample of traditional Japanese eateries upstairs. Look for this ramen outlet run by youngsters in yellow Ts and bandanas. It is one of the best in my book, though Dora would think it is slightly on the oily side (it seems everything is slightly on the oily side these days to my better half) ... what do you expect from a pork bone based double boiled stock? If it tastes good it cannot possibly be healthy, right?

Back to Haneda, she reminds us of Munich, especially that sense of orderly calm and seamless operations ... it is heart felt and truly enjoyable.