With its rich historical background and sharp, nearly 90-degree turn — an unusual bend that aligns with similar curves in other nearby streets that follow an old property line established in 1633 — West Village’s Commerce Street is a unique piece of New York City history.
And the many historically significant buildings that surround it are proof of that.
The nearby Isaacs-Hendricks House at 77 Bedford Street is one of the few remaining 18th-century buildings in Manhattan, dating back to 1799. Neighboring it at 75-1/2 Bedford Street is a narrow 9-1/2 feet wide house built in 1873, once home to poet Edna St. Vincent Millay.
On Commerce Street proper, we find the Cherry Lane Theatre, the oldest continuously running off-Broadway theater in New York City.
And the buildings at numbers 41 and 39, built in 1831, are known for their mansard roofs added in 1873, but also for the folk tales that surround them. The twin houses are said to have been built by a sea captain who had two feuding daughters, so he built them identical, separate homes with a shared garden.
At 48 Commerce Street, we find another West Village gem — one that’s currently on the market and looking for an architecturally inclined or history-loving owner.
Originally built in 1844, the 5-story townhouse was built on land once owned by Queen Anne, the younger daughter of James II, who reigned over Great Britain and Ireland at the dawn of the 18th century.
According to our sources, Queen Anne later sold it to Trinity Church, after which architect Alexander T. Stewart — an Irish immigrant who created one of the first department stores in America, The Marble Dry-Good Palace — bought it and built the 5-story structure at 48 Commerce Street.
The West Village townhouse, now listed for $10,000,000, sits on an expansive lot with almost 5,000 square feet of living space and a width of 20 feet — and can accommodate at least 6 bedrooms, each with its own office and walk-in closet.
With 8 full baths, future residents and guests will get to enjoy comfort and privacy in one of the city’s most desirable locations. Features include 9 wood-burning fireplaces, a rear patio, a front garden, and rooftop space that allows for a deck with skyline views.
Norman L. Steele, the current owner of the property — who’s also a former real estate mogul that once worked for IBM — restored the building in 1994.
He’s now ready to part ways with his West Village townhouse, offering one lucky buyer the opportunity to create a one-of-a-kind dream home in a beloved Manhattan location or to split it into several units and maximize their investment.
48 Commerce Street is listed for $10 million with Michael Biryla of The Agency New York.
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Whether you need to finish last-minute work tasks before a vacation or connect with loved ones after being away, you might be needing an in-flight Wi-Fi signal. However, if you’re flying Hawaiian Airlines to or from the Aloha State, you might be in for a surprise.
Here’s what you need to know about Hawaiian Airlines Wi-Fi and the airlines that offer coverage over the Pacific Ocean.
Does Hawaiian Airlines have Wi-Fi?
Unfortunately, Hawaiian Airlines planes aren’t equipped with Wi-Fi yet, and that includes transpacific and inter-island flights.
However, the carrier has struck a deal with Starlink to provide broadband wireless internet to flyers in the future.
Hawaiian Airlines is planning to equip its Airbus A330, Airbus A321 neo and Boeing 787-9 aircraft with complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi run on a satellite network. Hawaiian Airlines internet service will be available on flights between the islands as well as long-distance flights to the mainland U.S., Asia and Oceania.
“When we launch with Starlink we will have the best connectivity experience available in the air,” Hawaiian Airlines CEO Peter Ingram said in 2022. “We waited until technology caught up with our high standards for guest experience, but it will be worth the wait. Our guests can look forward to fast, seamless and free Wi-Fi to complement our award-winning onboard Hawaiian hospitality.”
At this point, it’s unclear exactly when Starlink internet will be available aboard Hawaiian Airlines planes, but it’s supposed to happen sometime this year. Having said that, in-flight entertainment is available for passengers to stream on their personal device through a self-contained in-flight network.
How to stream in-flight entertainment from a personal device
Even though there’s no Hawaiian Airlines Wi-Fi, you still can stream in-flight entertainment to your personal device in two ways: a mobile app or an internet browser. You can watch new and classic films as well as TV shows on your phone, tablet or laptop.
Hawaiian Airlines app
Download the Hawaiian Airlines app to your mobile phone or tablet.
Once aboard, switch your phone to airplane mode and connect to the “Movies on HawaiianAir” network.
Open the Hawaiian Airlines app, select “More” and then “In-flight entertainment.”
Internet browser
Connect to the “Movies on Hawaiian” network.
Open your internet browser and type “www.hawaiianairlineswifi.com.”
Choose an option and watch.
Which airlines provide Wi-Fi on flights to Hawaii?
The islands of Hawaii are located about 2,400 miles from the mainland U.S., so it’s no wonder that the signal over the Pacific Ocean isn’t that strong.
Below are some of the airlines that offer Wi-Fi on flights to Hawaii. Still, when in doubt about investing in a Wi-Fi pass, ask a flight attendant whether the internet signal is reliable.
American Airlines
American Airlines offers satellite-based Wi-Fi on most aircraft in its fleet, meaning you might have luck getting coverage on your flight to the Aloha State. An in-flight Wi-Fi pass starts at $10 and goes up from there.
To check whether your specific flight offers Wi-Fi, you can check its status by entering the flight number and date of travel on this page.
Delta Air Lines
Delta Air Lines and T-Mobile have been rolling out free in-flight Wi-Fi to SkyMiles members, which is available on about 600 domestic aircraft as of last July.
Full availability on the global fleet is expected by the end of 2024. A pass costs $5 to $19 on aircraft that aren’t yet equipped with free Wi-Fi.
United Airlines
United Airlines has four in-flight internet providers: Gogo, Panasonic, Thales and Viasat. Aircraft equipped with Panasonic Wi-Fi provides the most coverage, which includes areas over the Pacific Ocean.
The following aircraft are equipped with Panasonic Wi-Fi:
United Aircraft with Panasonic Wi-Fi
Select Airbus 319.
Airbus 320.
Select Boeing 757-200.
Select Boeing 757-300.
Boeing 767-300ER.
Boeing 767-400ER.
Boeing 777-200.
Boeing 777-200ER.
Boeing 777-300ER.
Boeing 787-8
Boeing 787-9.
Boeing 787-10.
United Wi-Fi on domestic flights costs $8 or 800 miles for MileagePlus members and $10 for passengers who aren’t enrolled in its frequent flyer program.
Hawaiian Airlines Wi-Fi recapped
Although Hawaiian Airlines will be launching Starlink wireless service on its aircraft, it’s not available to passengers at the moment.
The only option you have for now is to connect to an in-flight entertainment network and stream content from your personal device. If you want to watch something else, we recommend downloading episodes of your favorite show to watch on the plane.
(Top photo courtesy of Hawaiian Airlines)
How to maximize your rewards
You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024, including those best for:
The new year brings fresh opportunities, especially when it comes to decorating. It’s important to ensure your surrounding space, down to the smallest of details, reflects your vibe and personality for the year ahead.
When approaching your living room decor, start by redecorating your coffee table. Oftentimes, coffee tables serve as focal points for living rooms and learning how to decorate them according to your personal style is an exciting venture.
Often overlooked, the coffee table is a highly influential piece in our homes that can really be elevated with thoughtful decor. After giving this article a read, you’ll know for certain that a coffee table is not just a mere surface for placing mugs and magazines; it’s a canvas that speaks volumes about you. your style and your unique interests.
How to decorate a coffee table, by personality
Think of your coffee table decor as an insight into who you are, your style and your personality. Think, if this is someone’s first time seeing your home, what do you most want to portray about yourself and your interests? That’s how you’ll want to decorate the coffee table.
Browse our curated ideas and see which coffee table styling speaks to you. Whether you’re a seasoned coffee table decorator or a novice with no style in mind, we have coffee table decor ideas for everyone. Don’t believe us? read on.
Book nerd’s haven
If you find your peace in a good book, let your coffee table reflect that same passion. Pull a couple of your favorite covers from the past or a few of the books you’re currently reading and arrange them in the center of your coffee table. Add a pop of color with a vase of fresh flowers and a fun bookmark or two. Add a pair of your reading glasses to add even more personal flair.
The Swiftie sanctuary
For the avid Taylor Swift fan, let your coffee table serve as a make-shift (dare we say make-Swift?) shrine for your favorite musical muse. Display the Time Person of the Year magazine as a coffee table book, perhaps with some records next to or underneath it for added variation. Have a few old T-Swift CDs? Those will make effective and theme-friendly coasters so long as you aren’t a collector trying to maintain pristine packaging. Add a scented candle with some vintage matches to embody vibes created in some of her recent albums.
Wine connoisseur’s tasting corner
For self-declared sommeliers, let your coffee table reflect your hobby with a bold display. On a metallic tray, place your favorite bottle of wine, two or three wine glasses and some assorted nuts to create the ultimate tasting experience. Add chic coasters to complete the ensemble, ensuring your coffee table is always ready for a refined evening of wine appreciation.
Chill coffee-drinkers retreat
Coffee table decor is of course, for coffee drinkers. Opt for a minimalist approach, to mirror the chill vibe coffee drinkers need when enjoying their morning, midday or early evening cup of joe. Think of a round tray with a scented candle and a magazine or two to peruse. Keeping it simple is best when going the minimalistic design route.
Art enthusiasts’ display
If curating aesthetics is your passion, this coffee table styling is right up your alley. Stack some coffee table books from your favorite designers or artists alongside any decorative boxes or artsy trinkets you have on hand. Painting some coasters to go next to this artistic display even furthers the unique look and adds a personal touch to your coffee table surface.
Traveler’s adventure hub
For those consumed by wanderlust, turn your coffee table into an inspiration for your travel desires. Fill a tray with items that represent your dream destinations or show off places you’ve already been to with things like globes, creations from local artisans, postcards and even travel-themed candles with scents inspired by faraway lands.
Plant parent’s oasis
Creating visual interest with greenery is a perfect way to spice up your coffee table decor. To style your coffee table the natural way, create a mix of flowers and smaller potted plants, like succulents. Natural elements help to create a soothing atmosphere, adding even more value to even a small arrangement on your coffee table.
Creativity is key when it comes to coffee table decor
While our curated ideas provide an avenue to downright gorgeous coffee table decor, the possibilities of this small space stilted on four legs are endless. Your coffee table is a blank canvas waiting for your personal touch, so feel free to mix and match elements that resonate with your individuality. Experimenting and creating a unique, individualistic space will not only impress your guests but also tell your story to all who sit down around your table.
Still looking for the right ways to showcase your personality and tastes through decor? Find the perfect place in one of our available apartments today.
Wesley is a Charlotte-based writer with a degree in Mass Communication from the University of South Carolina. Her background includes 6 years in non-profit communication and 4 years in editorial writing. She’s passionate about traveling, volunteering, cooking and drinking her morning iced coffee. When she’s not writing, you can find her relaxing with family or exploring Charlotte with her friends.
Thinking about starting a real estate podcast? Today’s episode with Declan Spring is for you! In this interview, Declan shares how to quickly, cheaply, and easily launch a podcast of your own. Declan also offers advice on getting great guests and staying engaged while creating content. Listen and learn everything you need to know in order to launch something that listeners will love.
Listen to today’s show and learn:
About Declan Spring [2:01]
Referral-based marketing [4:44]
Launching a local real estate podcast during the pandemic [6:17]
Understanding the culture of your local market [15:15]
An alternative to social media marketing: podcasting [16:34]
How to cheaply, easily start a podcast [19:58]
Tips for targeting the right audience [26:23]
Writing and sticking to a mission statement [31:58]
How Declan finds potential podcast guests [33:44]
Finding the right fit for you when it comes to marketing [39:38]
Potential challenges with starting a podcast [41:48]
Where Shelby found her podcast editor/virtual assistant [46:10]
Running a podcast for local Realtors [47:39]
Where to find and follow Declan Spring [49:45]
Advice on embracing change in real estate [51:04]
Declan Spring
Declan Spring is an Irish-born, long-time resident of the San Francisco Bay Area’s East Bay which includes Oakland and Berkeley. Declan joined Red Oak Realty in Berkeley, California in 2010 as a residential REALTOR® and immediately began community building as part of a long-term strategy toward successfully working by referral and being a resource to his community. Declan strives to be a source of neighborhood, community, and industry information that’s intimate and deep, to clients and agents alike. This focus on community giving and referral-based marketing has propelled him to receive top-producer status on multiple occasions. Declan hosts a popular real estate insiders podcast, “Let’s Talk, with Declan Spring” that’s ranked number 7 by traffic among all California real estate podcasts. He also hosts the BRIDGE Association of REALTORS® Podcast as part of his commitment to being of greatest possible value to both his clients and the professional community alike. Of his podcasting Declan says “It’s been phenomenal in increasing my reputational accountability and in positioning me as a local real estate expert. Lately this means that I’m fielding an increased number of Bay Area referral requests from out-of-area and out-of-state REALTORS® and playing matchmaker to ensure potential clients are finding their way to the very best local Bay Area agents”.
Related Links and Resources:
It might go without saying, but I’m going to say it anyway: We really value listeners like you. We’re constantly working to improve the show, so why not leave us a review? If you love the content and can’t stand the thought of missing the nuggets our Rockstar guests share every week, please subscribe; it’ll get you instant access to our latest episodes and is the best way to support your favorite real estate podcast. Have questions? Suggestions? Want to say hi? Shoot me a message via Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, or Email.
Regional insurer that sells home insurance in three New England states.
Coverage options
About average
Average set of discounts
NAIC complaints
Far fewer than expected
Safety Insurance
Regional insurer that sells home insurance in three New England states.
Coverage options
About average
Average set of discounts
NAIC complaints
Far fewer than expected
About Safety home insurance
Boston-based Safety Insurance sells homeowners insurance in select parts of New England. It earned a NerdWallet rating of 4.5 stars out of 5 for overall performance, standing out for its ultra-low number of consumer complaints. Safety home insurance is worth considering if you live in New England and want to work with a local independent agent to find coverage.
How we rate homeowners insurance companies
Our star ratings are based on consumer complaint data from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners; financial strength grades from AM Best; coverage and discounts available; and the overall consumer experience. See our criteria for evaluating home insurance companies.
Why you can trust NerdWallet
Where Safety stands out
Consumer complaints. Safety draws very few complaints to state regulators for a company of its size, indicating that most policyholders are satisfied with their coverage.
Optional coverage packages. Safety offers bundles of valuable add-ons such as guaranteed replacement cost coverage for your home and water backup coverage.
Where Safety falls short
Availability. Safety serves only three states in New England. Homeowners elsewhere will need to find a different carrier.
Website. Although Safety’s site has some basic functions like online bill payments, it doesn’t allow you to get a quote or offer easily accessible information about the company’s policy options.
State availability
Safety sells homeowners insurance in Maine, Massachusetts and New Hampshire.
Safety home insurance coverage
You can customize your homeowners policy with numerous add-ons, but below are the types of coverage that generally come standard:
Type of coverage
What it does
Pays to repair or rebuild the structure of your home.
Covers damage to unattached structures such as sheds or fences.
Pays to repair or replace personal belongings such as furniture or clothing.
Pays for hotel stays, restaurant meals or other expenses if you have to live elsewhere while your home undergoes covered repairs.
Covers legal expenses and damages if you’re responsible for injuries to other people or their property.
Covers injuries to guests in your home, regardless of fault.
Besides these basics, you may also be able to add:
Equipment breakdown coverage in case a major appliance or system fails. This could include things like HVAC systems, generators and kitchen appliances.
Service line coverage,which can pay for damage to underground lines that connect your home to public utilities.
You can also bolster coverage with optional upgrade packages, including:
Safety Supreme Plus. This package comes with:
Higher limits for jewelry and silverware.
Water and sewer backup coverage in case a sump pump fails or a drain backs up into your home.
Service line coverage.
Extra liability coverage.
Guaranteed replacement cost coverage, which will pay the full price to rebuild your home even if it’s above your policy limit.
Broader coverage for your belongings.
Personal injury coverage for things like slander and libel.
Safety Complete. Coverage for this package includes everything in the Supreme Plus package along with identity theft reimbursement, increased water backup and equipment breakdown limits, and coverage for business property on the premises.
Safety home insurance rates
The average cost of Safety homeowners insurance in New Hampshire is $815 per year, according to NerdWallet’s rate analysis. That’s slightly less than the state average of $865 per year.
In Massachusetts, Safety homeowners insurance costs an average of $1,185 per year, below the state average of $1,320 per year.
Rate data wasn’t available for Safety Insurance in Maine.
Discounts
Depending on where you live, you may be able to save on your Safety homeowners insurance premium by:
Bundling your policy with Safety auto insurance.
Signing up to receive documents electronically.
Buying a new home.
Not having any recent claims.
Having a fire or burglar alarm in your home.
Being a loyal Safety customer.
Consumer complaints
Safety had far fewer than the expected number of complaints to state regulators relative to its size for home insurance, according to three years’ worth of data from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners.
Consumer experience
Website: You can’t get a quote or find many details about Safety’s homeowners insurance coverage on the company website. However, you can log in to your online account to pay bills, view your policy information and find agent contact details.
App: Safety’s app offers the same services as your consumer web portal, including bill payments, claim reporting and seeing agent information.
Claims: You can report a home insurance claim by contacting your agent or calling Safety directly at 800-951-2100. You can also file and track claims through your account on the website or in the app.
Customer service: For help, you can reach out to your local agent or call Safety at 800-951-2100.
The bottom line
Safety Insurance may be right for you if you’re a New Englander who wants to work with a local agent to find the best coverage. But it’s not the best option if you prefer to shop for insurance online.
Current Product
Complaints to NAIC
Far fewer than expected
Complaints to NAIC
Far fewer than expected
Complaints to NAIC
Far fewer than expected
Coverage options
About average
Coverage options
About average
Coverage options
More than average
Discounts
Average set of discounts
Discounts
Average set of discounts
Discounts
Average set of discounts
Bottom line
Regional insurer that sells home insurance in three New England states.
Bottom line
Well-established insurer known for great customer service.
Bottom line
Best for homeowners looking for many ways to customize their policy.
Other home insurance companies to consider
Not ready to make a decision? You may be interested in these other homeowners insurance companies:
Frequently asked questions
What other types of insurance does Safety sell?
In addition to homeowners insurance, Safety products include auto, umbrella, dwelling fire and business policies.
How long has Safety Insurance been in business?
Safety Insurance was founded in 1979.
How do I get Safety homeowners insurance?
Safety policies are sold through independent agents across Maine, Massachusetts and New Hampshire.
Air travel can be stressful enough without having to wade through throngs of people, pay for an overpriced hamburger or search for a seat. This is especially true if you’re flying through Las Vegas, where slot machines dominate much of the terminals.
But Harry Reid International Airport is not all gambling and pricey snacks. There are airport lounges scattered throughout the terminals, and each features complimentary food and drinks, an abundance of chargers and ample seating.
About Las Vegas lounges
Airport lounges can be a useful way to relieve some of the stress from traveling. Although they can be crowded (and may even require waitlists at times), they tend to be better staffed than the standard airport terminal.
Beyond this, they also feature extra amenities like complimentary food and sometimes even showers.
American Express Centurion Lounge
American Express is at the forefront of the luxury airport lounge experience and the brand’s Centurion Lounge in Las Vegas is no exception. Located in the D Concourse opposite gate D1, the American Express Centurion Lounge is open daily from 5 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Those who are traveling in other terminals are able to access the lounge via the tram system, which is located after security.
Only cardholders and authorized users are granted complimentary access to the Centurion Lounge. Cardholders can opt to pay a $50 ($30 for those aged 2-17) fee per guest for entry. Otherwise, those who spend more than $75,000 in a calendar year on an eligible card are able to bring in up to two guests free of charge.
The Club LAS
There are two The Club LAS lounges at Las Vegas airport. One is located in Terminal 3 and is open from 5 a.m. to 12 a.m. daily.
The other is located in the D Concourse and is open from 5 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. each day.
Both of these lounges are accessible to those who have a Priority Pass Select membership. Priority Pass Select memberships are offered by many different premium travel credit cards and confer unlimited complimentary access to eligible lounges.
United Club Lounge
If you hold an eligible United credit card or otherwise have a United Club membership, you can make your way to the Las Vegas United Club Lounge. Star Alliance Gold members on eligible flights also have access to the lounge.
One-time passes can be purchased by those with a boarding pass for same-day travel on a Star Alliance, United or partner flight. It costs $59 per person and can be bought in person or through United’s mobile app.
Open from 4:30 a.m. to 12:30 a.m. daily, the lounge is located in Concourse D between gates D33 and D35.
USO Lounge
The two USO Lounges in Las Vegas are available exclusively to active duty members of the military and their families. The first is located in Terminal 1 just outside the security checkpoint for A and B gates. It’s open from 4 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily.
The second USO lounge is located in Terminal 3 in the baggage claim area, next to carousel 20. It’s open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. each day.
Lounges coming soon
Chase Sapphire Lounge
Chase has two airport lounges currently open, one in Boston (BOS) and one in Hong Kong (HKG). It has also announced a future lounge in Las Vegas at C gates, though there is no opening date specified.
Capital One Lounge
Capital One also has two lounges that are currently open — one in Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) and the other in Washington D.C. (IAD). Along with one in Denver (DEN), Capital One is planning on launching a lounge in Las Vegas.
If you want to use the lounges in the Las Vegas airport
The fun doesn’t have to end when you leave Las Vegas.
If you’re flying through the airport, take advantage of the Las Vegas lounges on offer before takeoff. Along with free food and drinks, you’ll be able to enjoy a variety of amenities.
Before you go, be sure you have a credit card or membership that grants you airport lounge access. While it’s possible to pay for a day pass for certain lounges, many premium cards offer complimentary lounge access as a perk to cardholders.
How to maximize your rewards
You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2023, including those best for:
Vivek Ramaswamy blasted Bank of America for its move to provide home loans “without down payment” to people from Black and Hispanic Communities.
Taking to X, Ramaswamy wrote, “Mark my words: This act of “anti-racism” today will be called “systemic racism” tomorrow – when minorities end up defaulting on these loans.”
Wrap up the year gone by & gear up for 2024 with HT! Click here
What is Bank of America’s new move?
Bank of America stated that Community Affordable Loan Solution is available for properties in Black/African American and Hispanic-Latino communities in places including Charlotte, Dallas, Detroit, Los Angeles and Miami. Eligible people can obtain an affordable loan to buy a home as a result of this move.
“The Community Affordable Loan Solution is a Special Purpose Credit Program which uses credit guidelines based on factors such as timely rent, utility bill, phone and auto insurance payments,” Bank of America said online, adding that no mortgage insurance or minimum credit score will be needed.
The eligibility of the individual is based on income and home location, it said, adding that any individual from “any race or ethnicity is welcome to apply.” “This new program is in addition to and complements Bank of America’s existing $15 billion Community Homeownership Commitment to offer affordable mortgages, industry leading grants and educational opportunities to help 60,000 individuals and families purchase affordable homes by 2025,” the bank wrote.
The National Association of Realtors states that there is almost a 30-percentage-point gap in homeownership between White and Black Americans. The gap is nearly 20 percent when it comes to Hispanic buyers, making it significantly difficult for people of colour to purchase homes.
“Homeownership strengthens our communities and can help individuals and families to build wealth over time,” said AJ Barkley, head of Neighborhood and Community Lending for Bank of America. “Our Community Affordable Loan Solution will help make the dream of sustained homeownership attainable for more Black and Hispanic families, and it is part of our broader commitment to the communities that we serve.”
Tipping cultures can vary significantly between countries. While many service workers in the U.S. rely on tips as part of their compensation, that’s not the case universally. Between the U.S. and Japan, specifically, there is a huge difference in the tipping culture
In fact, travelers should generally avoid tipping in Japan. There are a few rare cases when a tip is appreciated. Let’s go through when tipping in Japan is appropriate and when you should show your appreciation with a heartfelt “arigato gozaimasu” (thank you).
Do you tip in Japan?
The short answer: No. In some situations, trying to leave a tip may be even off-putting. As wild as that may seem to American travelers, Japanese culture prioritizes excellent service without any expectation to provide a financial tip as appreciation.
Whether you get service from a restaurant server, bartender, hotel housekeeper or even a taxi driver, prices are set at a rate where workers are compensated with a fair wage.
For travelers visiting Japan, the general rule should be to avoid tipping. However, there are a few situations where a tip is appreciated. Here’s a breakdown of some specific dos and don’ts.
Do you tip at restaurants in Japan?
Travelers should avoid leaving a tip in restaurants in Japan. This is the case regardless of the type of restaurant — from counter service to a sit-down multi-course meal — and the quality of the service. The expectation is that prices are set at a rate that the owner will provide fair compensation to servers.
Some Japanese bars or izakayas may charge a small cover charge. This is typically referred to as “otoshi” and may or may not be posted at the entrance to the bar. Ask before being seated if you’re concerned about this charge (typically only a few dollars).
The telltale sign that you’ll be charged an otoshi is if you get a small appetizer upon sitting down.
Do you tip taxi drivers in Japan?
With Japan’s incredible public transportation, travelers should have little need for taxi drivers to get around. Because of this, Japanese taxi drivers generally provide top-notch service. From white gloves to automatically opening doors, taking a taxi in Japan is like no other. Again, your instinct may be to show your appreciation with a tip.
But here again, travelers will find their offer rejected. Don’t have exact change and want to round up? Many Japanese taxi drivers will provide exact change, down to the yen.
Do you tip tour guides in Japan?
One of the few places where tipping in Japan is appreciated is for tour guides and interpreters. What’s the commonality? These service providers primarily serve international tourists, many of whom are accustomed to tipping. For this reason, many tour guides and interpreters won’t turn down a tip when it’s offered.
To truly show your appreciation, do a bit of legwork beforehand and take a couple of small envelopes with you. Flashing cash is seen as inappropriate, particularly in public. Instead, place your tip in an envelope and hand it to your recipient with both hands.
Again, though, tipping isn’t expected in these cases, but it won’t come across as rude. Since there’s no expectation of a tip, there are no guidelines about how much to tip.
Tipping geishas and at ryokans
Geishas (female Japanese performing artists and entertainers)and ryokans (traditional Japanese inns with attentive service) are two ways to experience exceptional authentic Japanese service and culture. Considering the lack of tipping elsewhere in Japanese culture, it’s ironic these are two times when it can be appropriate to provide a tip.
When having a private dinner with a geisha, you can opt to provide an envelope with cash to show your appreciation. Currently, the custom is to give around $20 (3,000 yen) per person. This money should be in an envelope and handed to the geisha with both hands and a dip of your head.
At high-end ryokans, it’s appropriate for guests to show their appreciation with a tip for attendants or the owner, either at check-in or left on your bed at checkout. Here a tip of $7 (1,000 yen) per person is seen as customary.
Should you insist on leaving a tip in Japan?
In many Asian cultures it’s seen as polite for someone to turn down a gift on the first offer. This isn’t the case for tipping in Japan. If you attempt to leave a tip and the offer is politely rejected, don’t insist on providing the tip. While your offer may be perfectly well-meaning, it can come across as rude in Japanese culture.
Final thoughts on tipping in Japan
Traveling and experiencing different cultures can help you re-examine the cultural norms that you’re used to. For Americans, the lack of tipping in Japan can be one of those times for reflection.
In the U.S., it’s usually rude not to tip servers, bartenders and taxi drivers. The opposite is true in Japan. Even attempts of tipping in Japan can seem off-putting, as it can be interpreted as a sign that you feel the service worker isn’t fairly compensated for the price charged.
Instead, show your appreciation by learning about Japanese culture and memorizing some Japanese phrases.
Keep your voice down in public — except in izakayas — or other places where letting loose is expected. Be mindful of the appropriate places to wait to board trains and queue outside restaurants. Learn to hand and receive payment cards and business cards with both hands. And internalize arigato gozaimasu as the appropriate way of showing your appreciation for good service when visiting Japan.
How to maximize your rewards
You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2023, including those best for:
From 9 a.m. ET on December 22, 2023, to 5 p.m. ET on Thursday, February 15, 2024, fans have the opportunity to enter for a chance to win the 2024 HGTV Dream Home.
HGTV and FoodNetwork fans have the chance to win the 2024 HGTV Dream Home giveaway in Anastasia Island, Florida. The prize package, valued at over $2.2 Million, includes keys to the home, all furnishings, an all-new Mercedes-Benz E Class Sedan, and $100,000. Eligible fans can enter for a chance to win daily at HGTV.com/DreamHome and FoodNetwork.com/HGTVDreamHome, where they will also find full details of the official rules and additional home features.
The three-bedroom, four-bathroom home sits at approximately 3,300 square feet with views of the Matanzas River and the St. Augustine Lighthouse. The home combines classic coastal elegance with modern touches and layers of natural textures drenched in soothing blue and white hues. Upon entry, guests will instantly be taken away by the beautiful views of the waterfront. The front door leads to the great room with an open concept, including a living room with sleek sofas and a fireplace, a dining room with a beach-inspired distressed table, and a bright blue cabinet-filled kitchen. The laundry room and well-organized mudroom sit between the kitchen and an attached two-car garage. The main bedroom looks up to airy skylights and offers a private retreat from the rest of the home with a walk-in closet and main bathroom.
The house is perfect for entertaining, with two guest suites and a loft that provides a cosy space with a wet bar and a mini fridge. The spacious backyard is a dreamy getaway with an outdoor kitchen and high-top bar, two fire features, a pool, and multiple outdoor entertaining spaces, including a screened-in porch with lounge and dining and a pergola with conversation seating.
Architect Michael Stauffer designed the home, and local builder Glenn Layton Homes brought it to life. The interior design was done by Brian Patrick Flynn.
2024 HGTV Dream Home features overview:
3-bed, 4-bath home with 3,300 sq ft
Views of Matanzas River and St. Augustine Lighthouse
Classic coastal elegance meets modern touches
The front door opens to a great room with an open-plan concept
Main bedroom with walk-in closet and main bathroom
2 guest suites and loft with wet bar and mini fridge
Spacious backyard with outdoor kitchen, high-top bar, fire features, pool, and multiple entertaining spaces
The HGTV Dream Home inspires millions of HGTV fans who enter for a chance to win every year. With this year’s home, we are showcasing Anastasia Island, which offers something for everyone from historical sites to year-round outdoor adventures.
Loren Ruch, Head of Content, HGTV
Anastasia Island is located off the northeast Atlantic coast of Florida, just east of St. Augustine, considered the oldest city in America. The 14-mile island is connected to the city of St. Augustine by the Bridge of Lions, giving access to everything from the charming cobblestone streets and powder sand beaches to historical sites and a wide range of activities. With a rich architectural history, Anastasia Island sits atop layers of local coquina stone formed from seashells used to build the Castillo de San Marcos, a national monument and the oldest fort in the United States. Visitors can explore the St. Augustine Lighthouse, Anastasia State Park, Matanzas Inlet, St. Augustine Amphitheatre and many other local attractions. With endless water sports, scenic boat rides, campsites and majestic views, this seaside escape is the perfect dreamy getaway to call home.
Sponsors of the 2024 HGTV Dream Home include Belgard®, Cabinets To Go, Delta Faucet, James Hardie Building Products Inc., LL Flooring, Mercedes-Benz USA, The Sherwin-Williams Company, SimpliSafe Home Security, Sleep Number®, Trex Company LLC, VELUX® No Leak Skylights, Viva®, Wayfair® and KitchenAid, and Maytag by Whirlpool Corporation.
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Mihaela Lica Butler is senior partner at Pamil Visions PR. She is a widely cited authority on public relations issues, with an experience of over 25 years in online PR, marketing, and SEO.She covers startups, online marketing, social media, SEO, and other topics of interest for Realty Biz News.
Walk past the street-facing 1990s duplex and beyond a 1920s Sears Roebuck kit bungalow, and an accessory dwelling unit, or ADU, rises before you at the end of the property. It’s a slim, two-story rental clad in inexpensive white vertical corrugated metal.
Only then do you realize this single Venice lot has four rental units.
With Southern California in desperate need of housing and state and federal laws constantly evolving to make permitting ADUs easier, the detached home by architects Todd Lynch and Mohamed Sharif of Sharif, Lynch: Architecture feels like a harbinger of what’s to come.
“When the city encouraged us to increase housing, I thought of the Venice property,” said owner Ricki Alon, who had previously worked with the architects and builder Moshon Elgrably on another project. “Given the unique site constraints, I didn’t believe they could do it. I was worried it would be too crowded and negatively affect the small guest house.”
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Alon was hesitant at first, but after a persuasive Zoom call with the architects, they all agreed that a fourth unit would add value to the bustling community.
“We viewed it as a challenge and a way to transcend ADUs in an SB9 world,” Sharif said, referring to Senate Bill 9, the 2022 state law that allows homeowners to convert their homes into duplexes on a single-family parcel or divide the lot in half to build another duplex for no more than four units.
Alon loved their initial sketches despite her skepticism, and the project moved ahead.
“We decided to go as high as possible,” Sharif said of the eventual design, a slim, two-story ADU built on what was previously a driveway. Slipped into the lot, the 1,200-square-foot ADU, or IDU as the architects like to refer to the infill dwelling unit, was built an inch from the 1920s bungalow, five feet from the duplex and four feet from the property line.
Resting a few feet from a dingbat apartment to the south, the ADU is lifted off the ground to preserve two parking spots in the alley and a swimming pool in front. “Its entire width is dictated by that two-car side-by-side dimension,” said Sharif, who teaches in the undergraduate and graduate design studios at UCLA. Lifting the volume to preserve the pool also created shade and an open space that all residents could share.
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“They refused to get rid of it,” Alon said of the water feature. “They insisted on building around it.” Today she admits it was the right decision. “Now, when you walk in, you experience a wonderful, absolutely lovely environment. I’m glad they did not listen to me,” she added with a laugh.
The narrow living room, seen from the staircase, and the first-floor office and en-suite bathroom. (Jason Armond / Los Angeles Times)
Even though you can’t see the rental from the street, the ADU has enormous curb appeal and a touch of glamour. A Midcentury-style Sputnik pendant light hangs outside the front door, giving it an elegant feel, and the white cladding gives it a distinctive quality from the other rentals, which are clad in orange metal and gray siding.
Up a short flight of stairs, the front door opens to the ground floor and the two-story entry, which features a compact first-floor bedroom, study and en-suite bathroom.
“We wanted every room to have a bathroom to suit roommates,” Sharif said.
Tenant Henry Schober III, a 38-year-old attorney specializing in data privacy, uses the ground floor as his office and a bedroom for out-of-town guests.
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“It’s a place that I’m comfortable spending a workday in,” said Schober, who goes to the office once or twice a week. “I don’t feel like I’m trapped in my house.”
Tenant Henry Schober III takes advantage of the ADU’s rooftop deck, which offers panoramic views of Venice. (Jason Armond / Los Angeles Times)
Up the stairs to the second floor, the main living area and kitchen measure just 13 feet wide; large windows and operable skylights add light and cross-ventilation throughout the linear floor plan.
“The windows make you feel like you’re in an amazing penthouse in SoHo,” Alon said. “It gives the room a great energy.”
The rest of the second floor houses a powder room, bathroom and bedroom. Because of limited space, there was no room for a formal dining room. However, Schober said that’s easier to maneuver than the limited storage, which has taught him to think differently about how he stores and displays things.
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“I eat at the long breakfast bar, and when I have people over, I use the common space or the roof deck,” he said.
The home’s two floors feel like three, Lynch said, “because of the way the stairway draws one upward through the IDU and then because of how the roof steps up again.”
The roof deck serves as another outdoor room, further expanding the living space. From the rooftop deck, Schober has panoramic views of Venice, not to mention ample room for a dining table, barbecue and sauna.
After renting an apartment temporarily a few blocks from the beach, Schober was still determining whether he wanted to rent another apartment in Venice.
“It originally turned me off to Venice,” he said. “The price points were so high. It felt like people were paying for the ZIP Code. Landlords were asking five grand for an apartment next to a parking lot.”
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But when he saw the two-bedroom ADU, he changed his mind. “When I walked in, I thought, ‘I’m going to live here,’” said Schober, who is originally from Philadelphia and moved to Los Angeles from Switzerland.
“The apartment and the secluded feel changed my attitude,” Schober said. “You get the convenience of Venice and access to all the restaurants and shops, but you’re not in the thick of things. I lived in San Francisco for a decade, Europe for six years. I view the apartment as an oasis in a neighborhood that is not as transformed as others.”
Schober said the strength of the architects’ vision is that the unit is quietly tucked away in a congested neighborhood. “Since you are set back from the street, there is no foot traffic,” he added. “It doesn’t feel like I am living among a bunch of units. There is little street noise, and you would never know you live a stone’s throw from Lincoln Boulevard.”
Perhaps most impressive, the ADU defies the notion that you can’t have parking, privacy and quality of living, including a swimming pool, on a tight infill lot with other properties.
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In a sense, Schober said, “It seems the solution to the housing crisis is building up.”
“There is a community feeling, and people know each other,” Sharif said. “They sit around the pool, and it’s very intimate and private.”
After a 10-month building process, the team completed the project this spring at a cost of approximately $410 per square foot.
Looking back, Alon is grateful that she moved forward with the project.
“It’s not just a unit that brings value to the property,” she said. “It enhances the entire property for everyone. Adding housing in this condensed community is important, but this team made it something beautiful that people will enjoy. You don’t have to add a huge amount of square footage to add quality of living.”