Niseko Confidential in Japan is back for the winter season – and its brand new neighbor Tepache has joined the party, bringing all things agave to Niseko. With concepts and drinks developed by award-winning sister bar Tokyo Confidential, each venue brings its own brand of creative cocktails, delightful chaos and cheeky après ski fun to the renowned resort town. Just steps from the slopes and next door to Niseko Confidential, Tepache will be opening 12 December for its first winter season. Taking its name from the fermented pineapple beverage that originated in Mexico, Tepache is a celebration of agave, bold flavors and good times in the heart of Hirafu. From tequila to mezcal and raicilla, Tepache boasts Hokkaido‘s largest agave collection, and also showcases lesser known Mexican spirits. The “Starters” section includes tequila and mezcal pours complemented by the bar’s namesake Tepache, Sangrita or grilled pineapple, while a list of expertly crafted cocktails accompanies the spirit list. Ranging from highball-style drinks to shaken citrus-forward and strong spirit-forward serves, highlights from the drinks menu include Tepache Highball, with Tequila, house-made Umeshu and fermented Tepache soda, the Signature Margarita with Tequila, Cointreau, Niagara wine syrup, yuzu and lime, and Adios Mr Spalding, a nod to one of sister bar Tokyo Confidential’s previous “Second Base” signature drinks with fermented strawberry, Mezcal, sweet vermouth and Scarlett Amaro. Chef Rene Baez is helming the culinary direction for Tepache, developing a selection of modern Mexican dishes with two sharing-style menus with five or seven courses on offer. Known for his creative Cali-Mex style cuisine, Chef Rene has been shaking up Tokyo’s food scene for the past four years at Chelas, where he built a following by mixing San Diego roots with Mexican family recipes. Celebrated for his role in helping to push modern Mexican cooking forward in Japan, Chef Rene brings that same passion and creativity to Niseko at Tepache, where his menu ranges from sharing-friendly bites such as Ceviche and Al Pastor Fries, with mains including classic favorites like enchiladas and tacos. His move from Tokyo to Hokkaido marks an exciting new chapter and an opportunity to merge the vibrancy of Mexican cooking with the local ingredients and energy of Niseko’s international dining scene. Known as a must-visit destination for craft cocktails, curated dining offerings and cozy house party vibes in Hirafu, Niseko Confidential reopens for the season on 13 December. Bringing back favorites from last season – and of course the shotskis – drinks highlights include the Gingerbread Old Fashioned with bourbon and warming spices of gingerbread, and the Tokyo Banana Colada, with banana, pineapple, salted milk and umami bitters with rum. Niseko Confidential offers à la carte snacks and drinks for après ski from 3 – 5PM, with two seatings for its prix fixe fine dining menu at 5PM and 7:30PM. Dinner menus include the Petite 4-course menu (¥17,600), the Signature 6-course menu (¥19,800) and the indulgent Premium 6-Course Menu (¥39,600); a 3-course kids menu is also available. Menus will evolve depending on market availability to highlight the season’s freshest flavors, with sample dishes such as Spicy Scallop Crispy Rice, Tuna Carpaccio and Hokkaido A5 Wagyu Filet. Providing a truly luxurious dining experience, the Premium menu features exquisite add-ons such as caviar, Hokkaido uni, shaved truffle, and foie gras offering an elevated take on the signature course menu.

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Sapporo, already famous for its beer, ramen, and snowy winters, now has a taste of the Big Apple. On the ground floor of Wyndham Garden Sapporo Odori, a new eatery is drawing attention: NY Pizza & Wings by Phoenix, a restaurant bringing the flavors, attitude, and sports-bar vibes of New York City straight to northern Japan. What’s on the Menu The highlight here is unmistakably New York-style pizza — thin, hand-tossed, and large enough to fold in half, just like you would on the streets of Manhattan. Guests can order a massive 16-inch pie in favorites such as Pepperoni, Four Cheese, or Supreme, or build their own with toppings like bacon, jalapeños, extra cheese, or fresh mozzarella. Of course, no New York-inspired spot would be complete without Buffalo wings. Served crispy and coated in bold sauces, choices range from Spicy Buffalo and Chili Garlic to Japanese-inspired flavors like Garlic Soy Sauce and Original Salt and Pepper. To complete the experience, dipping sauces include blue cheese, honey mustard, avocado, and creamy mayo-sour cream blends. Side dishes like Caesar salad and seasoned shaker fries round out the menu, all served with a quirky touch: menus clipped onto authentic U.S. car license plates. Why It Feels Authentic The restaurant takes authenticity seriously. The kitchen team trained under a New York pizza professional, ensuring each slice delivers the chewy crust, stretchy mozzarella, and rich flavors that made the style world-famous. Manager Hajime Sugimoto explains that this detail-driven approach is what makes NY Pizza & Wings stand out: it’s not just American food, but a genuine taste of New York culture. Beyond the Food: Sports and Social Vibes The venue doubles as a modern sports bar, with wide screens streaming everything from UFC fights to football and baseball games. Guests can enjoy the action with a pint of Hokkaido craft beer or a glass of local wine, making it a great hangout spot for friends and families. Whether you’re winding down after a day exploring Sapporo or looking for a lively evening out, NY Pizza & Wings offers more than just food — it offers atmosphere. Opening Hours and Specials The restaurant is open daily from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. (last food order at 9:30 p.m.). To mark the grand opening, special discounts are available on pizza, Buffalo wings, and drinks. For updates and giveaways, you can follow their social channels at @NYPizza_and_Wings_by_Phoenix. Travelers planning their stay can find details about Wyndham Garden Sapporo Odori and other attractions on the official Sapporo tourism website. Final Bite Sapporo’s food scene just became even more exciting. With NY Pizza & Wings by Phoenix, visitors and locals alike can savor authentic New York flavors without leaving Hokkaido. Whether you come for the pizza, stay for the wings, or linger for the sports-bar energy, this is one stop worth adding to your Sapporo itinerary.

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Planning your solo trip means that you can venture to different destinations, and there is nothing to hold you back. However, things must be considered when deciding where you are going as it needs to be safe and comfortable for you to travel alone. Not only will you be exploring parts of the world, but you will also be enriched with the culture, history and beautiful locations. It can be tough to pick a country in Asia that you want to visit as all of them are worth travelling to. But don’t worry; we have your back. Here are some destinations in Asia that we recommend and should consider going to for your solo travels. 1.  Jeju Island, South Korea If you want to be in touch with nature and the natural wonders of the world, then Jeju Island is the place to be. The island is surrounded by mountains, cliffs and beaches where the activities that can be done are endless. As this place is dedicated to lovers of nature, there are also various beautiful gardens you can visit and smell the fresh flowers surrounding it. Although the island is tiny, you don’t have to aorry about only doing limited things. Activities available on Jeju Island range from water-based activities to hiking or even feeling luxurious on a boat tour around the island. Moreover, if you are a foodie, the seafood there is phenomenal as it is fresh and right out of the sea. Therefore, creating an itinerary during your trip is advisable as you want to hit the famous spots and see the picturesque view. 2. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Kuala Lumpur is a destination for those who love the city atmosphere and adore architecture. It is the capital city of Malaysia and a great place for tourists to visit to explore and learn things from history and culture. They offer so many attractions in which the food is amazing and also a variety of museums for you to visit. As Malaysia is a multiracial country, you will find many buildings, delicacies, and architecture representing each race which is quite fascinating. One of the most famous buildings in the world that are in Kuala Lumpur is the Petronas Twin Tower. The architecture gives off a modern look and looks incredible, especially at night. Tourists would explore the nightlife in Kuala Lumpur and take pictures near the Twin Tower as it looks grand and very tall. Since every location you visit has a story to tell, so bring your camera along to capture some amazing memories.  3. Agra, India Agra has magnificent architecture full of history and culture, and it is a destination worth visiting at least once in your life. One you shouldn’t miss while visiting Agra is the famous Taj Mahal, one of the world’s seven wonders. The meaning of the building and the story behind it will make you appreciate such beautiful architecture. However, there are more things to explore than just the Taj Mahal as you can experience more such as going to markets and purchasing local novelties or watching the light and sound show at Agra Fort. Additionally, the food here is heavenly as India is famous for its food and spices, which can open up your taste palette. The beauty of India is astounding as the monuments surrounding them look regal and have a legacy within them. Visiting a place with such importance in its background and history will definitely open up new perspectives for you. 4. Sapporo, Japan If you decide to visit a place during winter, then Sapporo will welcome you with many winter attractions. It is known to be one of the most exciting places in Japan as there are many fun spots to visit. Moreover, it also has beautiful flower parks where you can just stroll along and take pictures of the beautiful scenery. Besides nature, museums are also one of Sapporo’s famous tourist attractions where you can learn how chocolates are made or acquire more knowledge about the history of Japan.  Snow-related activities such as skiing and snowboarding can also be done near the resorts, and you will have the time of your life. In addition, winter festivals are a big thing in Sapporo, where you can witness fascinating ice sculptures and just be awed by the display they put on. So be sure to put on your comfiest clothes and start exploring! 5. Bali, Indonesia Bali is a tropical getaway where everyone can enjoy the beautiful blue beaches and white sands. It is one of the greatest and most popular locations in summer as the sun and seas will welcome you to enter a tropical haven. The numerous activities in Bali will put you on a ride as there are so many to choose from, such as snorkelling, surfing, hiking, and so much a place could have. Aside from the beaches, you can also visit Tegallagang Rice Terrace, which is full of lush greeneries where you can hike and, of course, take pictures. However, keep in mind that the weather is going to be hot and sunny, so always wear your sunblock before going out because we want our skin to be protected from the sun. There is everything for everyone to enjoy and experience their own little paradise when you visit Bali. From soaking up the sun to having your own time to yourself is a bliss that people need to feel. Exploring the world is a wonderful adventure, and if there is a chance, you should definitely take it as you want to create some memories. Even though solo travelling can be intimidating, it will be your best decision once you have the groove on. You will find yourself more open to trying out so many things and enjoying what the world offers. So, what are you waiting for?

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