Tokyo (33)

Japanese bar with fantastic view and great cocktails.

When travelling in Tokyo, I would highly recommend vending machine Ramen (noodles) for the experience. The ramen is not dispensed by a machine but human contact (read the need to communicate in Japanese) is limited - so may be great for the foreign visitor. The process may look intimidating at first but in reality it couldn't be simpler. Outside the restaurant you will be faced with a vending machine with a selection of buttons, typically you need to select:

1) The size of your noodles
2) The type of noodles
3) Any extras, including egg, extra meat, etc

Simply press your desired buttons (all with pictures on for you to follow), insert money and you will be issued with a coupon. Hand this in to the staff in the 'restaurant' (usually a bar - perfect for single dining) and a few minutes later you will be presented with a piping hot bowl of ramen. Prices are fantastically cheap (no more than GBP5 a bowl) and extremely fresh. As an added bonus, you can feel smug that you've achieved to dine like a local and navigate yourself around what can be a very confusing city.

The business card plays an important role in conducting business in Japan. There are a few key tips to remember:

1) Always give and receive cards with both hands.

2) Take special care of the cards that are given to you. Spend some time consulting the card and reading it as a show of respect

3) Never write on or deface the business card

4) The business card exchange process is a pre-cursor to any business commencing.

Japan's mobile phone system is not compatible with most non-Japanese phones. This includes Blackberrys and tri-region phones. Make sure you don't get caught short by checking to see if your phone gives you a signal when you get off the plane. If not, you are able to rent a phone at the airport (it's easier here as you can return it just before you head home and the language barrier is not an issue).