Dinner in Tokyo for €55: Tipping? No, you're not in Croatia

The narrative from Večernji List paints a picture of Japan, specifically Tokyo, as a surprisingly accessible and affordable destination for Croatian travelers, a stark contrast to long-held perceptions. The author recounts a recent trip with his family, where a dinner for four in the prestigious Shinjuku area cost a mere 55 euros, a price point that would be unthinkable in many Croatian cities, especially along the coast.

This affordability is attributed to a confluence of factors: the significant devaluation of the Japanese yen and the strength of Croatia's euro. This economic shift has made goods and services in Japan remarkably inexpensive for those coming from countries with stronger currencies. The author emphasizes that even with his choice of the most expensive craft beer on the menu, the total bill remained exceptionally low, debunking any notion of this being a "dive" establishment.

The article also touches upon the changing landscape of air travel. While acknowledging that flights might not always be the cheapest option, the author notes that round-trip tickets to Japan, even with a layover in Shanghai on East China Airlines, were purchased for around 650 euros. This is presented as a significant decrease from previous expectations, making Japan a more viable option for Croatian tourists.

Beyond the economic aspect, the piece offers a glimpse into the Japanese experience, mentioning the unique greeting customs in restaurants and the fleeting cherry blossom season, which coincided with their visit. The family's itinerary followed the popular "golden route," encompassing Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, and Hiroshima, with an added detour for the Formula 1 race in Suzuka. The efficiency of Japan's railway system is praised as a key enabler of their ambitious travel plans.

From a Croatian perspective, the author's commentary on tipping culture – noting the absence of tipping in Japan and contrasting it with Croatian practices – adds a layer of cultural observation. The piece implicitly celebrates this newfound accessibility to Japan, framing it as a positive development for Croatian travelers seeking international experiences without the prohibitive costs of the past.