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Onwards: Notes from Haneda Airport

On the Road in Haneda

When visiting Japan I usually fly into Narita airport, located at least 90 minutes from most of Tokyo. It’s a long bus ride, especially after stepping off a ten-hour flight from the U.S. or Europe. But whenever possible, I prefer to leave Japan from Haneda airport, more centrally located and more “local” all around.

There are plenty of long-haul flights from Haneda, but the international terminal chiefly serves Japanese passengers traveling to other Asian countries or Hawaii.

Before clearing security, there’s an observation deck you can visit. I spent an hour there yesterday, with no WiFi (shocking!) and no coffee (normally a tragedy). I was jet lagged but only slightly, and I enjoyed watching the planespotters dutifully scanning the tarmac. Elsewhere, children bounced around between parents who periodically chased after them in between looking at their phones.

By the time I went through security and headed for the lounge, I felt fully integrated in travel world. I had to move on to the next stop, but the travel world was moving on with me.

Chillin' Nice View Waiting to Observe

Travel Hacking News: 60,000 Points Bonus Ends Soon

A couple of weeks ago I mentioned the increased signup bonus for two credit cards I use frequently. The signup bonus for each of these cards is usually 50,000 points—which is great on its own. 50,000 points can get you two round-trip plane tickets anywhere in North America, or one-way to Asia or Europe. For a limited time, however, you can earn an additional 10,000 points per card.

In more good news, Singapore Airlines is now included as a transfer option for these cards. You can essentially earn a round-trip, Business Class ticket to Asia for getting both of these cards and meeting the minimum spent.

I have both of these cards already, or otherwise I’d apply for them now myself. Highly recommended!

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Images: 1, 2, 3, 4

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