Describe your most memorable vacation.

Today I saw the news: the Shinmoedake volcano in Kagoshima, Japan, has erupted. And it immediately brought back memories of one of my most joyful and unforgettable trips — a group tour to Kagoshima.

It was my first time traveling abroad after the COVID pandemic. Everything felt a bit unfamiliar, but also especially precious.

What I remember most was the hotel, not far southwest of where the volcano erupted — Castle Hotel.

The room was unbelievably spacious: a Western-style living area, a balcony, a tatami sitting room, and a separate tatami bedroom. I still remember walking in and doing a few excited laps around the room, like a kid seeing a hotel for the first time.

During those days in Kagoshima, I soaked in hot springs almost every day. The hotel had its own facilities, so I could relax without having to go anywhere else.

And I even tried Kagoshima’s unique sand bath — being buried in warm sand with only my head exposed. It felt strange at first, but deeply soothing, like being gently embraced by nature.

Kagoshima is quiet, clean, and comforting. Those few days remain vivid in my memory. Seeing images of smoke and lava on the news now feels surreal. The calm back then and the tension now — such a stark contrast.

Maybe that’s what travel really is — moments that stay with you, resurfacing in the most unexpected times.

May Kagoshima stay safe.