This trip to Japan didn’t quite go as planned. But that’s life.

Seen from a broader perspective – with all the trips we’ve taken around the world and those we hope still lie ahead – we have every reason to be humble, if not profoundly grateful, that we can travel so often and visit so many wonderful places.

Travel has long been an important part of our livelihood. We work at least as much when we’re away as we do at home, but I still can’t think of a better way to give life meaning than by experiencing new places, meeting people, and getting a glimpse of life beyond our everyday routine in Sweden.

This trip held great sorrow, but also warm and happy memories of my father-in-law, Allan. His easygoingness and genuine curiosity about other people reminded me of all those we’ve met on this trip.

Above all, it’s the fleeting yet memorable encounters here in Japan – far more than the beautiful temples, bamboo forests and delicious meals – that stay with me.

The above collage is from our last dinner at Awai where they serve an excellent Japanese take on tapas.