Selepas didedahkan secara rasmi pada Tokyo Auto Salon (TAS) 2020, GR Yaris hari ini sekali lagi menjadi tajuk besar dalam acara ubahsuai terulung di Jepun itu – ini dia GR Yaris facelift membuat kemunculan sulungnya di TAS 2024 pagi tadi!
Model yang disegarkan kali ini bukan hanya melibatkan perubahan kosmetik pada sebelah luar, ia turut menampilkan rombakan drastik pada kabin, menerima tingkat taraf kuasa, malah turut menerima pilihan kotak gear automatik berbanding hanya ditawarkan dengan transmisi manual sebelum ini.
Menurut Toyota, pembangunan GR Yaris ini tidak terhenti selepas ia dilancarkan empat tahun lalu. Model produksi tersebut dibawa untuk berlumba bukan hanya dalam disiplin rali, malah pelbagai lagi format perlumbaan membolehkan ia terus dibangunkan menerusi kaedah “pembangunan-kereta mengutamakan-pemandu” dalam persekitaran ekstrem “rosak dan baiki semula” berulang kali.
Malah proses berkenaan turut disertai oleh pengerusi Toyota yang juga “Toyota Master Driver”, Akio Toyoda – atau lebih dikenali dengan nama alter ego Morizo ketika berlumba – bagi “menambahbaik prestasi kenderaan secara komprehensif”.
GR Yaris facelift 2024 ini masih dijana oleh enjin G16E-GTS 1.6 liter tiga silinder turbo yang sama seperti sebelum ini. Namun kuasa 272 PS dan tork maksima 370 Nm pada versi sebelumnya kini sudah dipertingkat bagi menghasilkan 304 PS dan tork maksima 400 Nm, atau 32 PS/30 Nm lebih berkuasa dari sebelum ini.
Toyota tidak memperincikan bagaimana kuasa berkenaan dicapai, namun angka kuasa kuda tersebut jelas menyamai bekalan kuasa yang sama seperti abangnya GR Corolla, malah tork GR Yaris facelift ini juga adalah 30 Nm lebih tinggi!
Dengan tenaga yang lebih tinggi dihasilkan oleh enjin, Toyota turut menawarkan opsyen Cooling Package. Bagi pelanggan yang memilih pakej ini, unit sub-radiator, kit ambilan udara sejuk (CAI) dan juga penyembur air untuk unit intercooler akan dipasangkan di kilang ketika kereta ini diproduksi di GR Factory.
Bagi model manual, ia masih menerima kotak gear manual enam-kelajuan. Manakala bagi pilihan versi transmisi automatik yang baru ditawarkan menerusi model facelift ini, ia dibekalkan dengan kotak gear lapan-kelajuan automatik yang diberi nama Gazoo Racing Direct Automatic Transmission.
Seperti namanya, kotak gear ini dibina oleh sayap perlumbaan rasminya, Toyota Gazoo Racing (TGR). Menurut TGR, kotak gear ini mempunyai “kelajuan transmisi dan ketahanan yang boleh dinikmati oleh pelbagai jenis orang”, dan perisian kawalan transmisi tersebut telah dioptimakan untuk pemanduan sporty.
Kotak gear ini akan “belajar” bagaimana rentak pemandu memijak pedal brek dan pedal pendikit bagi membolehkan ia membuat anggaran lebih tepat bila gear perlu ditukar walaupun sebelum perubahan dalam tingkah laku kenderaan berlaku. Dengan itu gear akan ditukar secara automatik dalam tempoh masa hampir sama ketika pemandu berniat menukar gear tersebut, seterusnya akan memberikan tukaran gear yang hampir sama bagaimana pemandu profesional menukar gear, dakwa TGR.
Kotak gear AT ini didatangkan dengan penyejuk minyak ATF secara standard. Ia juga menggunakan material geseran yang sangat tahan panas pada klac penukar gear, bersama penambahbaikkan dibuat pada perisian kawalan transmisi bagi memberikan ‘tukaran gear berkelas-dunia’, dakwa TGR lagi.
Dengan jumlah gear yang lebih banyak berbanding versi manual, kotak gear automatik 8AT ini juga dapat memastikan enjin sentiasa berada pada lengkuk kuasa. Bagi varian RZ “High performance”, LSD jenis torsen dipadankan secara standard.
GR Yaris facelift ini juga menerima satu lagi perincian pemanduan baharu yang digelar Drive Mode Select. Menerusi fungsi ini, sistem stereng kuasa elektrik (EPS), penghawa dingin dan unit rangkaian kuasa (enjin dan kotak gear) akan menerima talaan spesifik Sport, Normal atau Eco yang boleh dipilih oleh pemandu. Manakala fungsi pemilih mod 4WD pula adalah sama seperti sebelum ini.
Casis asal GR Yaris yang sememangnya sangat tegar diberikan lebih penambahbaikkan pada model facelift ini. Jumlah bolt yang mengikat badan kereta kepada penyerap hentak telah ditambah dari hanya satu kepada tiga bagi mengelakkan jajaran roda berubah ketika pemanduan, seterusnya meningkatkan input stereng serta memberikan kestabilan kawalan lebih baik.
TGR turut menambah bilangan titik kimpalan (spot weld) sekitar 13% lebih banyak dan menambah jumlah kawasan di mana perekat sturktur digunakan sekitar 24% lebih banyak bagi memberikan ketegaran badan lebih tinggi, seterusnya memberikan pengendalian dan keselesaan ketika memandu.
Satu lagi ciri baharu pada GR Yaris facelift ini adalah Circuit Mode. Menerusi mod ini, ia akan memberikan talaan paling optima bagi pemanduan di litar dengan memberikan fungsi termasuk kawalan anti-lag, pengehad kelajuan dikurangkan sebaik sahaja kereta memasuki litar (dikesan melalui GPS), kipas enjin yang berpusing pada kelajuan penuh dan juga penunjuk penukar gear diberikan pada paparan instrumen. Setiap fungsi ini turut boleh diubah menerusi aplikasi telefon pintar.
Sekali tengok bahagian luaran GR Yaris ini memang menerima banyak perubahan. Dan perubahan-perubahan ini sebenarnya bukan hanya bersifat kosmetik kerana ia berfungsi bagi meningkatkan prestasi. Pada bahagian hadapan, gril pada bahagian bawah menampilkan mesh logam yang sangat nipis bagi mengurangkan beratnya, namun ia masih sangat kuat serta menyerlahkan tulisan “GR Four” pada elemen sarang lebah tersebut.
Manakala kemasan pada bahagian bawah kedua-dua sisi bampar hadapan direka agar ia boleh diasingkan dari bahagian utama, bagi memudahkan sebarang pembaikan atau restorasi dibuat dengan lebih mudah. Liang aliran udara juga direka lebih besar untuk penyejukkan yang lebih baik.
Terdapat juga liang udara pada bahagian sisi bagi mengeluarkan haba dari unit sub-radiator dan penyejuk minyak ATF. Liang udara pada bahagian bawah bampar belakang direka bagi membebaskan aliran udara bawah lantai, membolehkan daya seretan dikurangkan dan haba dari peredam bunyi juga dialir keluar.
Kluster lampu belakang baharu pada GR Yaris ini juga direka bukan hanya untuk rupa semata-mata. Menurut TGR, bahagian atas dan bawah lampu tersebut menampilkan rekaan yang boleh mengurangkan risiko kerosakan serta memberikan penglihatan lebih baik. Lampu brek ketiga juga tidak lagi diletak pada spoiler belakang, sebaliknya diasingkan bagi membolehkan spoiler tersebut direka lebih baik. Logo Toyota juga tidak lagi dilekat pada pintu hatch GR Yaris facelift ini.
Masuk ke kabin pula, perubahan lebih drastik diberikan terutamanya pada bahagian papan pemuka. Jika anda rasa papan pemuka GR Yaris facelift ini pelik, ia sebenarnya lebih mengutamakan pemandu dan direka diinspirasikan dari jentera lumba GR Yaris yang digunakan dalam perlumbaan Super Taikyu Endurance dan dan juga Kejohanan Rali Jepun.
Bahagian konsol tengah papan pemukan berkenaan telah dipalingkan 15 darjah menghadap pemandu, bagi memudahkan segala paparan dilihat dan juga suis pada bahagian tersebut mudah dicapai oleh pemandu. Bagi model manual, tombol gear telah dinaikkan 75 mm lebih tinggi berbanding tombol gear pada model CVT sebelumnya. Toyota turut menawarkan opsyen tuil brek tangan yang terletak bersebelahan tombol gear seakan brek tangan jentera WRC sebenar untuk varian RC yang dijual untuk diubah menjadi kereta lumba.
Berbeza dari versi pre-facelift yang hanya menampilkan paparan meter analog, model kemaskini ini menerima paparan instrument digital penuh dengan skrin 12.3-inci. Skrin berkenaan memberikan lebih banyak maklumat seperti suhu ATF bagi model automatik, penunjuk posisi gear dengan amaran tukaran gear, rekaan susunan meter berbeza mengikut mod pemanduan dan pelbagai lagi.
Rekaan tempat duduk hadapan GR Yaris baharu ini mungkin nampak sama seperti sebelum ini. Namun sebenarnya Toyota telah merendahkan posisi duduk sebanyak 25 mm, selari dengan kedudukan roda stereng yang juga kini lebih rendah. Sudut pandangan pada cermin depan juga kini lebih baik kerana kedudukan cermin pandang hadapan di tengah telah dialih lebih ke atas serta konsol tengah telah direndahkan lagi 50 mm.
Segala kelengkapan pada GR Yaris facelift ini membolehkan ia menampilkan spesifikasi yang lebih baik dari model hardcore Yaris GRMN yang didedahkan tahun lalu. Namun bagi pemilik GR Yaris sedia ada yang mahukan prestasi sama seperti GR Yaris baharu ini, Gazoo Racing turut menawarkan kit prestasi bagi membolehkan kereta anda mencapai angka kuasa menyamai model kemaskini ini, lengkap dengan emblem khas bagi menandakan ia telah menerima tingkat taraf tersebut.
Ketika berlangsungnya TAS 2024 ini, Toyota turut mengumumkan model konsep GR Yaris RZ “High performance・Sébastien Ogier Edition” dan GR Yaris RZ “High performance・Kalle Rovanperä Edition” disahkan akan diproduksi diasaskan dari model facelift ini. Versi sebenar kedua-dua model edisi khas tersebut akan didedahkan di pusingan pertama WRC tahun ini iaitu Rally Monte Carlo 2024 yang akan berlangsung pada hujung bulan ini.
GALERI: Toyota GR Yaris RZ High Performance facelift 2024
GALERI: Toyota GR Yaris facelift 2024 RR x Grow Concept
Just as we’ve seen with previous wide-body conversions created by Kato-san for Liberty Walk, their latest revelation at the 2024 Tokyo Auto Salon is sure to get some explicit reactions, after a wider, slammed version of the Lamborghini Miura (granted, that was based on a replica) and a more recent conversion of a genuine Ferrari F40, this year they completely threw away the rulebook and took the cutting disc to a Lamborghini Countach 25th Anniversary, and in case you are wondering, yes, there is a video out there where you actually see them cutting away to original fender extensions on this classic from Sant’Agata.
Photo courtesy of Liberty Walk
The traditional style of Liberty Walk has now been imposed onto what many consider to be the ultimate supercar dream from the Eighties, the Miura is a legend, being the first supercar ever, but the Countach is surely the car that put Lamborghini firmly into automotive history forever, introduced back in the late Seventies, this futuristic-looking V12 masterpiece would create it’s own style of doors that would be imitated by many, the ‘Lamborghini Doors’ that go up instead of sideways, something that became a trademark for every single V12 flagship to leave the Lamborghini factory gates in Sant’Agata ever since, even the new Revuelto retains this style of doors into the foreseeable future.
Photo courtesy of Liberty Walk
The Lamborghini Countach remained in production for over a decade, the first customer cars of the LP400 version were delivered back in 1974, now 50 years ago at the time of writing, but when the S version came out in 1978 things changed considerably, the car matured into what many now think of when they hear the name Lamborghini Countach: wide fenders, deep wheels, a deep chin spoiler and preferable a large rear wing, the latter actually slowed down the car and did nothing for downforce, but it looked cool, so many customers opted to have it installed. The original four-liter engine was enlarged to 5-liter in 1982, and thanks to Ferrari unveiling the Testarossa, Lamborghini upped the game again with the 455 hp Quattrovalvole version in 1985.
Photo courtesy of Liberty Walk
Automobili Lamborghini SpA intended to introduce the Countach successor on their 25th anniversary in 1988, but what would later become the Lamborghini Diablo just wasn’t ready yet, so they asked Horacio Pagani (yes, THE Horacio Pagani) to quickly redesign the Countach Quattrovalvole into a celebration model, which we today know as the Lamborghini Countach 25th Anniversary edition, intended to be a strictly limited edition model to celebrate the factory’s anniversary until the Diablo would be ready for production, but that turned out differently, and with a total production of 667 units, this model is the most built Countach ever (610 units for the Quattrovalvole in case you were wondering).
Photo courtesy of Liberty Walk
With those production numbers in mind, it makes more sense for Kato-san to take a Countach 25th Anniversary to cut up into one of his wide, low LB-Works creations, values on an original LP400 can go well into the seven figures range, but the average value of a Countach 25th Anniversary is still a rather reasonable $300,000 at this time, keeping in mind that low mileage, pedigree units can go for as high as $750,000, usually you’ll be able to secure a good running one for anything between $250,000 and $400,000, still a lot of money, but if you take into account Liberty Walk also creates their Silhouette GT based on the Aventador, you’re in the same ballpark in terms of cost anyway.
Photo courtesy of Liberty Walk
One of the consequences of using a 25th Anniversary instead of an S or QV version of the Countach is the fact the 25th Anniversary comes with wheel arch extensions that are glued onto the body, unlike the bolted-on one from the S and QV, so on this car, Kato-san and his team had to cut the original arches from the car, but that probably had to happen anyway as from these photos it might look like there is an air ride suspension fitted to get the ride height as low as possible and tuck in the massive wheel into the wider fenders, so even if they took a QV, they had to make larger wheel arches into the original bodywork, also keep in mind the original car still rolled on 15-inch wheels, now I might be wrong here, but I don’t think this white LB-Works Countach still has 15-inch tall wheels fitted, from the photos it looks like 17-inch units are present now.
Photo courtesy of Liberty Walk
Now I could be wrong about the air ride suspension upon closer inspection, if you compare this white LB-Works Countach to the original 25th Anniversary edition it looks like that massive Diablo GT-inspired front bumper goes down a lot further than the original unit, the same seems to be the case with the side sills, if you look at the amount of sill underneath the door opening, it does seem a lot more, and Kato-san did put four new fender flares on this car too, so it wouldn’t be much of a problem for him to have them so wide as they would overhang the tires, making it look like a low air ride suspension setup, while it actually doesn’t ride much lower than the original car, only the additional bodywork fitted by Liberty Walk makes it look that way.
Photo courtesy of Liberty Walk
At the front, we get a very deep air dam with three gaping air intakes, a flat chin spoiler that runs onto the sides with vertical uprights for stability while additional canards are fitted to the side of the front bumper, to make sure the design flows onto the extremely deep, custom-built side sills, the now bolted-on wheel arch extensions run down to the lower part of those side sills, a flat undertray underneath these sills goes into a vertical fin just in front of the rear wheels, where we see an even wider wheel arch in the typical Countach cut-out that goes down underneath the rear fender of the Countach, they even added an additional segment on the bottom to keep the design flowing.
Photo courtesy of Liberty Walk
And then we come to what is arguably the most aggressive and extensive modification of the LB-Works Countach, the rear, which I’m sure took Liberty Walk a lot of bodywork to get this smooth. Keep in mind the Countach 25th Anniversary comes with a rear bumper, and that one has been completely removed on this car, and not only that but take a closer look at the taillights, they now sit flush on top of a black panel, that’s not how the original car came, there is a complete surround screwed onto this rear panel from the factory, so there has been a lot of filling going one to get this clean look on the LB-Works Countach.
Photo courtesy of Liberty Walk
Liberty Walk fitted a massive lower diffuser on this LB-Works Countach that looks like they just took it from a race car and installed it here, very impressive, but not as intimidating as that gargantuan rear wing in typical LB Performance style, wide and high with large struts that seem to have been fitted straight onto the original chassis of the Countach, and we’re not even done with modifications yet. If you take a closer look you’ll notice an air intake mounted on top of the engine cover, peeking above the roofline of the Countach, and judging from this style of engine cover we are looking at a carburetor version of the Countach here, not the fuel-injected edition.
Photo courtesy of Liberty Walk
So is this air intake functional, is it a forced induction version, or is it for show only? No official information has been published yet about any performance upgrades or engine tuning, so I couldn’t tell for sure, but there may be a power increase over the original 455 hp, even more so as it seems there is a new exhaust system fitted to this LB-Works Countach, still dual tips on either side, but there are not on the original Countach position, they are further out to the sides, so this might mean there is a more free-flowing version, less restricted, which will emit a thundering sound but could also increase power output slightly, we’ll have to wait for an official confirmation about this however.
Photo courtesy of Liberty Walk
One final touch on the outside had been the replacement of the original Vitaloni mirrors on the doors with the smaller Vitaloni Sebring style units that we’ve seen on the early Countach S models in the late Seventies, a very nice touch, and one that increases the race-style feeling the LB-Works Countach now oozes from every angle, on the outside, but also on the interior as it seems the original, usually electric power seats of the 25th Anniversary edition have been replaced by lightweight racing seats, complete with four or five-point seat harness.
Photo courtesy of Liberty Walk
As far as I can see from these official photos there hasn’t been much weight reduction done on the rest of the interior, the door panels are still original to the factory specs, complete with electric-powered side windows, also the dashboard seems to have been kept in place, but you have to agree that most of these LB-Works creations are not about performance or weight reduction, it is all about looks, being wider and lower than original, keeping the same handling might not even be a priority either, that’s not what the intention is as far as I can tell.
Photo courtesy of Liberty Walk
Let’s not forget that the tuning scene in Japan isn’t really the same as in the rest of the world, taste is different, and with the amount of money Japanese supercar owners seemingly can spend, it wouldn’t come as a surprise that we might be seeing subsequent LB-Works Countach in the near future, and as much as it hurts me to state, the Countach 25th Anniversary will remain the least valuable Countach indefinitely, so turning it into an LB-Works creation could make sense for some of the more eccentric owners out there. If you have the money, who are we to deny you doing this to your own car?
Photo courtesy of Liberty Walk
For now, the official Liberty Walk website only lists the LB-Works Countach complete body kit in FRP, Fiber Reïnforced Plastic, so it isn’t available in clear carbon fiber … yet I guess, and it does include the LB Roof Air intake, but no pressure tray or anything else is mentioned, so it might just be for looks in the end, and the price is ‘on demand’, so no idea how expensive these parts might be right now, but I also note they don’t list anything about the custom exhaust you’ll need, nor the bespoke wheels for this kit as I’m sure you’ll need a special ET on these to fit as flush as on these photos.
Photo courtesy of Liberty Walk
I wonder what the reactions to this latest LB-Works creation are going to be, I expect another ‘love it or hate it’ scenario unfolding over the next couple of days, but I did find a post from Liberty Walk on Instagram that sums up their opinion very clearly: “We are doing whatever we want”, so I’ll leave it at that for now …
The 2024 Tokyo Auto Salon is currently underway and several new concepts and vehicles have been shown. One of them was an updated Toyota GR Yaris that features a newly developed quick-shifting automatic transmission that Toyota says can deliver faster lap times than the manual.
Nissan Ariya Nismo
Also present in Tokyo was a new Nissan Ariya Nismo. The electric crossover is a much more lukewarm effort than the Toyota hot hatch, but it benefits from some genuine performance upgrades including an aerodynamic package and more power.
Honda Saloon Concept – 2024 CES
This week also saw the running of 2024 CES. Honda used the Las Vegas event to launch the 0 (zero) series of electric vehicles. The automaker marked the launch with the reveal of a pair of concepts, one of which, dubbed the Saloon, will spawn a production version set for U.S. sale in 2026.
Mullen Five RS
Mullen used CES for the debut of its Five RS. With more than 1,000 hp, the electric compact crossover promises to match the performance of the Tesla Model S Plaid.
Vinfast VF Wild concept – CES 2024
Vietnam’s VinFast turned up to CES with a pair of vehicles, one of which was the VF Wild electric truck concept. It’s a midsize offering with handsome styling and a flexible midgate that enables the bed length to extend from five to eight feet.
One of the future vehicles we spied this week was an updated Porsche 911 GT3. The refreshed track star is expected to receive only the mildest of tweaks, one of which will be a fully digital gauge cluster.
Another Porsche in the headlines this week was an original 962 Group C race car that is coming up for sale. The car is the final 962 built, and originally fielded by Swiss team Brun Motorsport, including at the 1991 24 Hours of Le Mans.
Teaser image of electric Dodge Challenger successor
And finally, Dodge teased its replacement for the Challenger muscle car. The car, which was previewed by the Dodge Charger Daytona SRT concept, is due on sale later this year, and contrary to original claims the car may end up offering the choice of gas or electric powertrains.
I know some of you will think I lost my mind when you see this is the most recently posted Buyers Guide. I promise you I haven’t. Well, not yet anyway.
The Cadillac Escalade is one of those SUVs that is underrated in the hack world. Perhaps that is my fault as I have always taught you that it needs an “exotic” badge to be considered. I am here to rectify that… however, I want it to be clear that the NEW Cadillac Escalade is the EXCEPTION to the rule, not a new rule in itself.
Also, with some of the other Buyers Guides I have on this blog, we only talk about the HACKable years and trims of certain makes and models, so when I am talking about the Cadillac Escalade, I am not referring to ANY Escalade that existed before 2021. The ONLY Escalade that is hackable would be the 2021+ so bear that in mind as you continue to read along.
Driving Experience
Big.
That is the best adjective I have to describe the Escalade. But that is its purpose, no? So there is a trade off – if you don’t want to feel like you are driving a boat, then get something smaller, but then also note that you are not going to be able to fit the whole family (this SUV is a 7-seater) plus groceries, golf clubs, etc.
However, even though the truck is large in size, it is maneuverable. My wife drives an Escalade currently and she’s happy to take it to and from home, the gym, the store, and so on and doesn’t bash the wheels on curbs or have difficulty getting in and out of parking spots.
She enjoys taking it down to Miami when needed because it carries everything she needs (including our daughter and any and all of her stuff). I have taken it on a road trip to visit family too, and it is simply a no-brainer, the highway driving of this beast is second to none. The feel of safety and security is unmatched, and everyone in the cabin feels very comfortable.
Bear in mind though, this is not a sporty or performance SUV. It is slow, but that is ok; it isn’t supposed to be breaking any speed limits or going around the track. It is meant to be precisely what it is: a people mover.
Cadillac Escalade Common Problems
I had to bring my Escalade in for warranty work just recently. Thankfully it was nothing too serious and while there I was chatting with the service guys to see just how common this and other issues are for the Escalade.
My problem was the fuel pump went wrong, the gentleman said this is perhaps THE most common issue on the Escalade of these years and that they have seen many cases of this issue. It is an easy and quick fix under warranty.
Another common problem they said they saw, but hadn’t affected me personally, was a leak of oil from a canister near the oil filter. It is a small leak, and the guy said it is easily resolved with two bolts. It takes more time to get the car up on the lift than it does to solve that issue.
Of course, more issues can arise as the cars get older and get more mileage on their dash, but by keeping up with routine maintenance and also ensuring that you perform a PPI before buying your Escalade (even if it is under warranty) to ensure that none of the common issues or others are present.
Best Cadillac Escalade To Buy
So, I am a bit biased, as I have had my own experience with ownership of the Escalade.
With mine, and having seen others, I would recommend the following be the trim you keep your eye out for.
Go for a 2021-2022 Platinum Sport trim. The color combo just needs to be something that is generically hot as being a mass-produced car there aren’t a lot of “rare” or “special” color choices like other SUVs we have discussed like the G63 or Urus. So mine, for example, was simply white on black and it was a strong spec.
These cars are trim-dependent for options, meaning that options aren’t all carte but tethered to the trim options the model bores. So, options for the Platinum Sport are the highest in quantity and quality as that is the top trim level of the make/model for the years in question.
However, there is one bonus that isn’t trim-dependent but spec-based (whether by the first owner or dealer), if the Escalade has captain chairs for the second row. Just like the Mercedes GLS63, it makes maneuverability easier if you are indeed getting this Escalade to use it as a true seven-seater, family transporter/baby mover.
Conclusion
If you are looking for an SUV that ticks all the practicality boxes, like:
Beater Friendly
Higher Mileage Allowance
Great Section 179 Play
Seven Seater
Cheap to Maintain
then I would say look no further than the new Cadillac Escalade.
While it isn’t a car you would initially think of when talking about “exotic car hacks”, sometimes when it comes to cars like this, you have to think outside of the box.
Berlin, the German capital, is a beautifully vibrant and historically rich capital of Germany filled with discovery, intrigue, and a variety of different cultures. Many of Germany’s famous landmarks are located within Berlin. Exploring the heart of this cosmopolitan city within the confines of one day in Berlin is a delightful challenge—a chance to witness the life of Berlin’s past, present, and future.
Inside the Reichstag Building
Every corner of this famous city offers a variety of experiences filled with history. In just one day in Berlin, the ambitious explorer can traverse through time, from memorials to architectural marvels, iconic landmarks, and vibrant cultural enclaves, creating an unforgettable tapestry of the city’s allure. Enjoy your time in Berlin, the largest city and one of the best cities in Germany to visit.
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When to Visit Berlin
You can pretty much visit Berlin, Germany’s capital city, any time of the year, it truly depends on you. I prefer visiting anywhere in Europe during the spring and fall months because summer and winter can be high tourist seasons. The summer months can be difficult for those who do not fare well in hot weather and the winter months can be difficult for those who can’t handle the cold.
Spring
Spring in Germany, usually is from March to May, is a delightful time to visit. The city of Berlin emerges from the cold winter, while the trees and landscapes are blossoming with flowers. The milder temperatures make it perfect for strolls and outdoor explorations, especially for one day in Berlin. In addition to spring in Germany, fall in Germany is another time I love to visit many parts of Europe.
Summer
The summer months in Germany, from June to August, bring vibrant life to Berlin. The city bursts into a kaleidoscope of events, open-air festivals, and longer daylight hours. Parks and beer gardens become bustling hubs of social activity, inviting you to savor the city’s lively ambiance. It can be quite hot during this time as many houses and buildings within Germany do not have AC which doesn’t leave for many options to escape the heat. Additionally, it can be quite packed with tourists, making it difficult to enjoy this beautiful city.
Fall
In autumn in Germany, from September to November, Berlin’s streets are painted with the warm hues of autumn. The weather remains pleasant, and cultural events and art exhibitions flourish, providing a rich tapestry of experiences. The weather can cool down quite quickly but with the beautiful fall foliage, it makes the city quite attractive. Personally, for me, this is the best time to visit.
Winter
Winters in Germany are typically from December to February, exude a magical charm. The city may be covered in a blanket of snow, and the festive Christmas markets create an enchanting atmosphere. Take the time to warm up with mulled wine and immerse yourself in the city’s cozy winter vibe filled with lights, food, and Christmas spirit.
Berlin Trip Resources
Getting to Berlin
Whether arriving by air, rail, or road, Berlin is well-connected. Tegel and Schönefeld are the major airports, offering easy access to the city. Berlin’s efficient public transport system makes moving around a breeze. You can easily access it by train, plane, or automobile. We decided to drive to Berlin as we enjoy being able to make our own schedule. However, the train is a very enjoyable ride where you can drink, get snacks and food on board, as well as not worry about traffic.
If you are looking for ways to get to Berlin by train, the best way is to look via the DB app where you can find your closest train station and head to the Berlin HBF which is usually the city center.
How to Travel Within Berlin
There are a few options of travel within Berlin.
By Public Transportation
Berlin has the option to get a 24, 48, and 72-hour travel card that can take you on all of the public transportation within the city limits. The one that heads to Potsdam can be more expensive depending on what you plan on doing. You can also decide to purchase one-way tickets if you choose. These tickets are good for the S-Bahn, U-Bahn, and buses. The public transport network is quite good in Berlin and worth taking.
If you want, you can get a hop-on hop-off bustour and use it as a way to get to the top attractions around Berlin.
By Taxi
You can easily travel around the town via taxi or ride-share. The main and most popular apps to get a ride share in Berlin are FreeNow and Bolt. FreeNow is most common all over Germany, however Bolt we were able to use it in other countries more on the eastern side of Europe.
Where to Stay in Berlin
Finding the perfect place to stay in Berlin is an integral part of ensuring a memorable visit to this diverse and vibrant city. Berlin offers a wide array of accommodations catering to various preferences and budgets, ensuring every visitor finds a suitable place to call home during their stay.
Luxury: The Ritz-Carlton – offers sophisticated elegance and impeccable amenities, prime location near Brandenburg Gate, and provides a lavish experience steeped in history.
Mid-Range: Hotel am Steinplatz – charm with stylish interiors and personalized service.
Budget: Meininger Hotel – affordable yet stylish rooms, catering to both solo travelers and families.
Hostel: Generator Berlin Mitte – a vibrant communal setting, providing comfortable accommodations and fostering a sense of community among guests.
How to spend one day in Berlin: What to See and Do in Berlin
There are a lot of things to see and do in Berlin which is why one day in Berlin is typically not long enough for someone wanting to see everything this beautiful city has to offer. However, spending a day in Berlin can be doable and these are the things I would suggest to see and do in Berlin for one day after spending a weekend in Berlin.
Berlin One Day Itinerary and Map
Morning in Berlin
Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe
The day begins with a visit to the Holocaust Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe. This solemn site, comprised of 2,711 concrete slabs, offers a space for contemplation and reflection. Each slab’s varying heights and the maze-like arrangement evoke a sense of disorientation and loss, commemorating the six million Jewish victims of the Holocaust. It’s a hauntingly beautiful testament to remembrance and a stark reminder of a tragic past.
Brandenburg Gate
As the morning progresses, head toward the iconic German landmark Brandenburg Gate, a powerful symbol of unity and peace. This tourist attraction is one of the best things to do in Berlin and Berlin’s former city gate. It is standing tall, this 18th-century neoclassical monument has witnessed significant historical events. Located in the heart of the city, it once stood as a symbol of a divided city and now represents Germany’s reunification. The gate is a popular gathering point and offers a perfect spot for capturing memorable photographs against a backdrop of history.
Reichstag Building and Dome
Adjacent to the Brandenburg Gate lies the Reichstag Building, home to the German parliament building. This is one of Berlin’s must-see attractions and one of the most visited places. Ascend to the glass dome atop the building, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city. The dome’s design allows natural light to flood the interior, symbolizing transparency in the government. Experience a mesmerizing blend of history, modernity, and exceptional vistas as you peer over Berlin’s stunning skyline.
Victory Column
The morning exploration culminates with a visit to the Victory Column (Siegessäule). This imposing structure, standing tall in Tiergarten Park, commemorates Prussia’s victory in the 19th-century wars. Ascend the column for stunning views of the park and surrounding areas, offering a grand overview of Berlin’s beauty and historical significance.
Afternoon in Berlin
Checkpoint Charlie
Transitioning into the afternoon, visit Checkpoint Charlie, a significant Cold War landmark. This former border crossing was a gateway between East and West Berlin. The checkpoint holds historical importance, symbolizing the division between east and west Germany and tensions of the Cold War era. The adjacent museum vividly illustrates daring escape attempts and life during this period, offering a glimpse into the city’s divided past.
Museum Island
Embrace the artistic and cultural hub of Museum Island. This UNESCO World Heritage Site hosts five world-renowned museums, including the Pergamon Museum and the Neues Museum. Immerse yourself in millennia of art, culture, and history, spanning from ancient civilizations to modern art movements. The grandeur of the buildings and the treasures within make Museum Island a must-visit destination for any enthusiast of art and history.
Berliner Dom
Nestled on the banks of the River Spree, the Berliner Dom (Berlin Cathedral) showcases magnificent architecture and rich history. Marvel at the opulent interior, adorned with stunning mosaics and grandiose decorations. Ascend to the dome for panoramic views of the city and the river, allowing for an immersive experience within Berlin’s architectural marvel.
Berliner Fernsehturm
Rising high above the city, the Berliner Fernsehturm (TV Tower) offers an unparalleled perspective of Berlin. Ascend this iconic tower to behold a panoramic view that stretch for miles, revealing the city’s diverse landscapes. Enjoy a meal at the revolving Sphere Restaurant, and witness the city transform as daylight fades into evening. It’s a great place to get one of the best views of Berlin.
East Side Gallery and the Berlin Wall Memorial
Stroll along the East Side Gallery, a section of the Berlin Wall adorned with vibrant murals and graffiti, conveying powerful messages of unity, freedom, and hope. Each artwork tells a story, depicting moments in history and symbolizing the reunification of Germany. This open-air gallery is a living testament to human resilience and the triumph of the human spirit.
Evening in Berlin
Ampelmann Shop
The Ampelman shop is a store worth checking out. When you visit Berlin, you will notice that many of the pedestrian crosswalks on the east Berlin side have a different design for the lights. He is known as the Ampelmannchen. He was designed by a psychologist to emote a connection to the people. It was commissioned to be cute yet functional. The ampelmannchen ended up becoming the nostalgic iconic symbol of east Germany.
German Spy Museum
The German spy museum is a museum perfect for those who have an interest in spy and intelligence in Europe. This museum is filled with lots of fun facts about spies from all over the world from spies in movies to spy technology that was in place in Europe.
This museum also holds the enigma machine which is a cipher device used during World War II by Nazi Germany. This machine was used to help encrypt and decrypt messages and communication. If you are interested in spy related information, not too far from Berlin, you can also take a day trip to Prague and check out the KGB museum which goes into details about the Spy culture from the KGB in Russia.
Visit the Icebar
Conclude the day with a visit to the Icebar, a unique and refreshing way to unwind. Clad in thermal gear, experience the chill in this ice-themed bar where even the glasses are crafted from ice. Sip on cocktails in an ambiance that transports you to the Arctic, creating an unforgettable and distinctly cool Berlin experience.
Berlin, a city brimming with history, art, and modernity, offers a day filled with remarkable experiences. Each location visited is a testament to the city’s evolution, encapsulating moments of the past while embracing the vibrancy of the present.
Other things to do in Berlin
Visit a Flohmarkt
In addition to the other things above, immerse yourself in Berlin’s vibrant culture by exploring its bustling Flohmarkt, or flea markets. These markets offer a treasure trove of unique finds, from vintage clothing and antiques to art, crafts, and delicious street food, providing an authentic glimpse into Berlin’s eclectic and diverse offerings beyond its culinary delights.
Take a Day Trip to Hamburg from Berlin
Old Speicherstadt in Hamburg illuminated at night. Sunset background
Embarking on one day in Hamburg, an easy day trip from Berlin, unveils a world of captivating experiences in this bustling port city. Departing from Berlin’s central station, the efficient rail system ensures a smooth journey, whisking travelers through picturesque landscapes to reach Hamburg within a few hours.
Jewish Museum
The Jewish Museum in Berlin stands as a poignant testament to the rich and complex history of Jewish life in Germany. Designed by architect Daniel Libeskind, the museum’s striking architecture itself tells a story, symbolizing both the fractured history of the Jewish people and the hope for a new beginning. Within its walls, a diverse array of exhibitions spans centuries, chronicling the vibrant cultural contributions of German Jews while also acknowledging the tragic chapters of persecution and loss.
Visitors encounter powerful displays, poignant testimonials, and thought-provoking installations that delve into themes of identity, exile, memory, and resilience. The museum’s commitment to preserving the past and fostering dialogue about the present and future cements its significance as a crucial educational and commemorative institution, offering a profound and thought-stirring experience for all who enter its doors.
Visit Charlottenburg Palace
Visit one of the most beautiful castles in Northern Germany. The grandeur of this stunning Baroque-style palace is one that shouldn’t be missed. Wander through the lavish gardens and delve into the history of Prussian royalty.
DDR Museum
The DDR Museum in Berlin stands as an immersive way into the daily life and history of East Germany during the era of the German Democratic Republic (GDR). This interactive museum offers a unique hands-on experience, allowing visitors to step into the past and gain insights into the everyday reality of living behind the Iron Curtain. Through reconstructed living spaces, authentic artifacts, and interactive exhibits, visitors can touch, feel, and engage with the culture, politics, and societal norms that characterized East Germany. From exploring a replicated Trabant car to experiencing a typical East German apartment, the DDR Museum provides an intimate and captivating glimpse into the nuances of everyday life, fostering a deeper understanding of this pivotal period in history.
Listen to the Carillon
The Carillon in Berlin offers a harmonious and enchanting experience for those seeking the melodic beauty of bells echoing through the city air. Head to the iconic Tiergarten, a lush urban park, where the Carillon resides within the tower of the Berliner Philharmonie.
At appointed times, every day at 12 p.m. and 6 p.m., the Carillon fills the air with its melodic tunes, enchanting visitors with a captivating performance. The delightful interplay of tones and melodies creates a serene atmosphere, offering a moment of tranquility amid the bustling cityscape.
Where to Eat in Berlin
What makes Berlin great compared to other parts of Germany is its diversity. There are a lot of different cultures that live within Germany and there are many delicious restaurants on every corner. Here are a few of the restaurants that I highly recommend.
Örnek – Germany has a huge Turkish population and are big fans of kebabs so be sure to have some doner kebab as it’s part of living in Germany
Wen Cheng Handpulled Noodles
Zenner Bier- und Weingarten – If you want to eat like a tradition German, this bier or beer garden is the place to go in this German city. It’s located in the middle of the public park along the river.
Other Travel Guides for Germany
Berlin Travel Tips
Transport: Utilize Berlin’s excellent public transport, including buses, trams, and the U-Bahn and S-Bahn systems, for convenient travel.
Language: English is widely spoken, but a few German phrases can enhance your experience.
Museum Pass: Consider a Berlin WelcomeCard for discounted entry to attractions and free public transport.
In a day, Berlin reveals just a glimpse of its treasures. To truly absorb the city’s essence, consider extending your stay. However, with this one-day guide, you’ll leave with a snapshot of Berlin’s history, culture, and vibrant spirit.
Embrace the enchanting tales of the city and revel in the moments that make Berlin an unparalleled destination. Whether it’s a fleeting visit or a prolonged stay, Berlin promises a rich tapestry of experiences waiting to be explored.
If there’s one takeaway from the first day of Tokyo Auto Salon 2024, it’s sheer craziness. The crazy builds are back, and so are the crazy crowds. In fact, if the number of attendees we encountered on just the first day of this three-day mega event keeps up over the entire weekend, there’d have to be a new TAS attendance record set.
Within the eleven huge halls of the Makuhari Messe, we’ve come across so many amazing builds, and we’re planning to show you as many of them as we can over the course of the coming days’ coverage. Today, though, we wanted to share a few of the early standouts – the cars you must see if you’re braving the Tokyo Auto Salon this weekend.
Kazuki Ohashi’s Madlane 935ML Masterpiece
Let’s start with Kazuki Ohashi‘s Madlane 935ML Masterpiece. And ‘Masterpiece’ is a fitting name, because what this 29-year-old builder has created is nothing short of phenomenal. If you cast your minds back to 2021, you might remember our visit to Madlane, where Kazuki-san talked us over the 964 Carrera 2-based creation he was working on. You can check out that feature here.
Kazuki-san’s inspiration for the project was the Kremer 935 K4, but as you can see from the 99.9% finished project (only tuning of the MoTeC engine management system is needed before the car’s shakedown) he’s taken it to a whole new level – and it’s awesome.
Don’t for a minute think this is a just a show-style build, like some of Madlane’s other creations, though. It’s been engineered with motorsport underpinnings, from custom tube chassis and suspension work to a built 3.8L engine running twin KKK turbos with 935 wastegates. And check out those rear slicks!
We’re so happy to see Kazuki-san bring this vision to life, and you can bet we’ll be heading back down to Madlane HQ as soon as possible to shoot the car for a full feature.
Mad Mike Whiddett’s Mazda 808/RX-3 Wagon
Before Mad Mike Whiddett started drifting rotary-powered Mazdas in New Zealand he skidded them up, and of all his early builds none are more famous than FURSTY – his peripheral port 13B-powered 808 station wagon. After winning NZ’s 2004 Skidfest event, Mike found drifting and the RX-3-facelifted wagon was sold to help fund the purchase of his FD3S RX-7 – the car we now all know as MADBUL.
After a long time away, in October last year Mike was able to purchase the 808/RX-3 back, and reunite the wagon with its original FURSTY plates. But there were more plans that just that, and over the past three months the 808/RX-3 has been transformed from a street car to a fully-fledged pro-spec drift machine that will compete in the 2024 D1 Grand Prix championship here in Japan.
There’s a huge spec to FURSTY, from the TCP-Magic-built 26B four-rotor NA engine backed up by an HGT sequential transmission and Winters Performance quick-change rear end, to the one-off Rocket Bunny Pandem wide-body kit and custom Rotiform wheels, and we’ll uncover all that and more with a full feature very soon. What we’re really looking forward to though is seeing the car in action in D1GP!
Hikaru Taguchi’s Moontech x LTO BMW M3
In Dino’s 2024 Tokyo Auto Salon preview post, he named Moontech’s E36 M3 as one of his early standouts of the show, and now having gone in for a closer look, it’s only gotten better. We already knew that Hikaru Taguchi could build a tough E36, but this one goes even further than he’s gone before through a special collaboration with Khyzyl Saleem and tuning powerhouse Trust/GReddy.
Moontech’s ‘Project LTO E36′ features Khyzyl’s LTO (Live To Offend) wide-body kit, paired with Air Lift Performance air suspension and SCD EXT wheels from Neutrale in 18×10-inch and 18×13.5-inch fitments.
Inside, in true Moontech fashion you’ll find a full custom-trimmed cabin, while turbocharging of the M3’s S50 provides a solid performance bump. Trust/Greddy came on board for all the engine work.
Kei Miura’s Rocket Bunny Pandem Toyota Hilux
Rocket Bunny and Tokyo Auto Salon have gone hand in hand for longer than we can remember, but Kei Miura has brought something very different from the norm to the TAS party this year, and we can’t get enough of it.
It’s hard to know how to classify this 1989 Toyota Hilux as there’s a whole lot going on. At first glance it’s a mini truck with a Pandem kit and sparkly lowrider-style paint work – a wild mix in its own right – but then you see the drift stance and the completely exposed rear end. But that’s not all…
Up front, the Hilux has been 2JZ-converted and stacked with mods that include a very serious-looking single turbo conversion. There’s plenty to unpack here, so stay tuned for a full feature in the very near future.
Also of note was this custom TRA Kyoto chassis parked alongside.
Mad Mike Whiddett recently pulled the wraps of his 5-rotor-powered ‘787D’ – a build inspired by the ’91 Le Mans-winning Mazda 787B, but destined for drift demos – however, it seems like there’s another one of the custom stainless steel chassis in existence too. That’s not entirely unexpected given that Miura-san built 787D’s chassis and bodywork, but we’re really looking forward to seeing where this build goes.
As you can see above, we have a lot more to share with you from Tokyo Auto Salon 2024 – including a full feature on Wataru Kato‘s Liberty Walk Lamborghini Countach, which Dino is shooting straight after the event.
Stay tuned for our next update from the Makuhari Messe!
LVMH started the new year by annoucing a dynamic shake-up to their watches and jewellery division which involve a number of significant internal appointments. It appears as if 2024 is the year chairman, founder and CEO of LVMH (Louis Vuitton Moët Hennessy), Bernard Arnault is beginning to see his plans for succession take place. The 74-year-old luxury magnate is positioning his son to take the reins as the company announced a slew of new appointments across Hublot, TAG Heuer and Zenith. LUXUO discusses what this reshuffling spells for the future of LVMH.
Frédéric Arnault Appointed as CEO of LVMH Watches
Frédéric Arnault first joined TAG Heuer in 2017 where he was shortly promoted to chief strategy and digital officer the following year before ultimately becoming CEO in 2020. During his six-year tenure at TAG Heuer, Frédéric utilised his digital background — having worked at Facebook’s artificial intelligence research department — to oversee significant transformation within the brand. This was primarily done when the 29-year-old integrated his technological prowess and digital innovation to high-end watchmaking. Under his guidance, TAG Heuer merged luxury asthetics with advanced technology, introduced lab grown diamonds, reshaped legends like the Aquaracer and Carrera, and successfully engaged the company into a complete transformation plan around one objective — brand elevation and desirability.
Frédéric’s latest appointment as CEO of LVMH watches sees him take on a pivotal role in Hublot, TAG Heuer and Zenith where he will report to Stéphane Bianchi, CEO of LVMH’s watches and jewellery division. “Frédéric has done a tremendous job at TAG Heuer over the past six years. His unique and disruptive vision for the watchmaking industry led to a spectacular transformation for TAG Heuer, which recovered its credentials in record time as the luxury watch brand driven by high performance,” stated Bianchi. Frédéric Arnault has quickly risen up the ranks at LVMH and his departure from TAG Heuer was only a natural elevation in his career trajectory. Frédéric has both national roots and a familial skin in the game (being French and an Arnault) and having an Arnault in an overall position of strategic responsibility lends some weight to the watchmaking business of LVMH.
As it goes, quite the opposite is the case for Julien Tornare when compared to Frédéric. Julien is a Geneva native who spent years overlooking Vacheron Constantin in Asia eventually getting tapped to rebrand Zenith. His appointment at TAG Heuer is almost the equivalent to a “mission accomplished” seal of approval to his time at Zenith, and a strong mandate for him to steer the grand watchmaking ship that is TAG Heuer.
Having held the helm at Zenith as CEO since 2017, Julien spoke to LUXUO in 2020 in an exclusive interview stating “We have to feed the industry, to move things forward. The new generation wants to buy watches from dynamic companies. I strongly believe that the millennials, as they are known, don’t want the same watches as their parents – if they do then they will buy vintage but that’s a different story,” perhaps foreshadowing the shift that would lay ahead.
Benoit de Clerck Succeeds Julien Tornare as CEO of Zenith
Julien’s sucessor — Benoit de Clerck comes with 25 years of experience in the luxury watchmaking industry and understands international business development and dynamic sales strategies which has seen him expand market reach and increase profitability during his time as COO at Panerai, which is owned by Richemont. Benoit has built a reputation on handling international sales negotiations, pioneering retail solutions and a vast understanding of market dynamics.
Julien Tornare, Benoit de Clerck and Ricardo Guadalupe, CEO of Hublot, will now report to Frédéric Arnault. So how does Julien Tornare and Benoit de Clerck play a role in positioning Frédéric Arnault rise and the future of LVMH? Well, simply put Julien Tornare understands watchmaking and has bulit a career on it. Clerck on the other hand is a master of business strategy. The combination of the two alongside Frédéric Arnault’s technical insight and forward-thinking vision is but the first step in cementing LVMH’s future as a luxury powerhouse.
For more on the latest in luxury news, click here.
Distracted driving is a huge factor in motor incidents, with roughly 8% of all fatal accidents that happened in the year 2020 factoring in some form of distraction. You might think that you don’t allow yourself to get distracted, but is that true? Here, we’re going to look at some of the causes of distraction, and some of them might be ones you’re more prone to than you think.
It is not uncommon for passengers to not really understand how their behaviour can prove to be a risk to the driver and car that they’re in, even though it also personally endangers them. If you’re new to solo driving, then you should avoid giving lifts until you become more comfortable in the car and are more vigilant and aware of the risks on the road. When you do welcome passengers, make sure they abide by the rules of not making too much noise and limited distracting behaviour.
Your phone
Technology can be an aid in driving, but it’s also consistently one of the biggest dangers. There are real risks involved in taking your attention from the road to interact with your phone. That temptation can become very real on long drives. Take what steps you can to enable hands-free features, such as connecting the phone to a car, or using a mount to keep it within convenient access.
Eating and drinking
You’re not likely to be driving with a bowl of cereal in your hands, but it’s very easy to quickly sneak a bite or a drink of coffee when you’re in the car. However, if anything is occupying your hands while you’re driving, it is a serious danger. Even while you’re parked, eating and drinking can take away precious seconds of reaction time. Cupholders are often promoted as a solution, but they make the danger even more accessible. Avoiding eating and drinking unless you’re parked, full stop.
Windscreen issues
Your eyes are going to be locked on the windscreen, or what you can see through it, for the majority of the trip. A dirty or cracked windscreen can be a lot more distracting than you think and, what’s more, they can interrupt your field of vision. Fixing it ASAP with the help of services like windscreen fitters is always recommended. Even if it’s only a small crack, letting the issue linger is taking a risk you don’t need.
A lapse in attention
No one is perfect. We can lose attention if we’ve been on the road for a long time, or if it is late and we’re tired. Try to adjust to and accommodate your state as you are. If you’re feeling tired, then it might be better to pull over for either a brief rest or to get a caffeinated drink to help you regain your focus.
Distracted driving is a killer and should be taken seriously. It’s more important to become aware of your own potential faults and to try and fix them, rather than to simply assume they don’t apply to you.
I did my first ever holiday gift guide for travelers a few years ago, which was fun to compile. Readers seemed to enjoy the various items, and I was happy to share some of the products that accompanied me on the road.
Now that my life is a little different – something all of you already know – my gift suggestions are less about souvenirs from abroad or reading about travel, and more things I use day to day or found wonderful.
I hope you’ll find something you like in them!
Holiday gifts for the 2023 season
There are a lot of birds in here, you’ve been warned.
Hands free shoes and boots
It was a fellow leak patient who first told me about Kizik shoes, and I have used them ever since. Made with patented technology that allow for hands-free use, these sneakers come in different styles and colours, and are available in kids, women, and men’s options.
A note that their newer models aren’t as good for my spinal CSF leak because the heel drop is higher; I find the Lima model to be the most comfortable, though my shoes are their Cairo model that has since been discontinued.
Once you tie the laces on Kiziks the first time, you simply step into the shoes thereafter. To get out, you use your other foot to hold the base steady and slowly pull out of the shoe. They’re excellent for people with disabilities, for pregnancy, for seniors, and generally for those who hate having to crouch to get their shoes on and off.
And for this holiday season, they also have winter boots for the first time, and a new Chelsea boot that goes to the ankle.
The Lima Kizik women’s shoe in grey.
More information: You can find these shoes and boots on their website, Kizik.com. Using this link gets you $20 off (it also gives me $20 off, but I don’t see myself getting any more shoes as I have several pair!). They ship to Canada and USA. Follow them on: Instagram
A pencil to end all pencils
Do you know someone who is particular about their writing implements? The New York Times calls the Blackwing 602 the “Rolls Royce” of pencils, a previously popular choice from many a writer—including John Steinbeck. First created in the 1930’s, the Blackwing was also used by Chuck Jones, who proudly used Blackwings to create Bugs Bunny and many other Looney Tunes characters. After 1998, the pencil couldn’t be found, and devotees were paying $40 a pop when they did locate a stash. Thankfully, in 2010, a California company brought it back for “a new generation of writers, musicians, and others seeking a more natural existence” (not sure what they mean by that, but yes — it’s a great pencil!).
They brought back the cult-favourite mainstays: comfortable grip, a replaceable eraser in a very satisfying rectangular shape (why is this so satisfying!?), and a pencil crafted from California cedar and Japanese graphite. It writes like a dream, and makes doodling a pleasure. It’s not cheap but it’s not $40 a pencil expensive. Still, if you’ve got a family member or friend who loves to draw or handwrite, it’s a fun gift.
Yes, yes—I have included my own maps in this guide as well! My food maps get compliments whenever people visit, and make great holiday gifts for anyone who loves to eat.
In addition to Canada, above, I’ve got Vietnam, Portugal, Thailand, Japan, Italy, and Mexico art in the shop!
Despite my work hours being limited these days, one of the tasks I keep working hard at is the gluten free cards project. I started these cards when I got sick while eating in Japan with a short gluten free card in Japanese. I realized I needed to include more information, local ingredients names (not just “I can’t eat gluten”), and cross-contact (not just foods that are gluten free).
The result, 15 languages and counting with Bahasa Indonesia, Croatian, Lithuanian, and Swedish coming soon and over 12,000 cards sold.
Each card goes through 2 sets of translations for accuracy, with one translator at minimum being familiar with celiac disease. I’m in the process of adding PDF downloadable versions too, instead of just the PNG files. More and more people want to print the cards, not just have them on their phones.
Perfect for the celiac who loves to travel!
More information: Where to buy: the GF Cards shopfront, with free country guides here. Shipping to: Worldwide because they’re digital cards!
A great new card game for travel
Another fun gift that is perfect for the traveler: Trip Chaser, a new card game, beautifully designed. Trip Chaser is the love child of Dalene and Pete Heck, who you may also know from their site Hecktic Travels.
The game lets you figure out who’s the most travel-savvy of your group by buying, bartering, and gambling your way to various destinations. The more challenging a destination is to get to from North America, the more points it’s worth.
The game is already sold out in Canada, but you can order it on backorder or via the US, where there is still stock.
I have a great set of Global knives that I slowly accumulated over my years of lawyering. The problem is, with a spinal CSF leak I cannot use them because they are too heavy.
Instead, I’ve gotten a chef’s knife from Nakano, which is lightweight and comfortable—so much so, that anyone who comes in to help in the house only opts to use that one. It’s their “classic chef knife” and weighs in at 6.5 oz / 185g. Lightweight, but sturdy enough to cut many a great thing in the kitchen. They’ve got a 30% sale going on right now, too.
Nakano also has santoku knives and other sets on offer; I’m sharing the one I got and use because that’s the only one I have experience with. But it’s been a great addition to my knife block, and light enough to use even when my spinal CSF leak is in rough shape.
Please use code JODI at checkout for a 30% off deal on your knife purchase. Instead of an affiliate payment to me, I asked for a discount code for readers. It’s valid for the Nakano site generally, not just this knife that I use and love.
My friend Candace sent me a few Joytop notebooks when I first got sick. She said the lines are just perfectly placed, and the notebook’s seams were satisfying to use; I can’t disagree at all. There’s something about the size and lightweight matte texture of these books that makes me want to write in them all the time. I used to love Moleskine books but I got frustrated with the size, always wishing I could spread out my creativity and not be cramped to the side of the page.
These books allow me to do that, and for some reason, I haven’t used anything since. Honestly, these books are lovely but why are they so satisfying?! The just are. Regardless of why, Candace was right, and I wanted to include them so you all can enjoy the satisfaction we get from writing in them.
Always a whimsical cover, plus satisfying to write on.
More information: Where to buy: In Canada, Yuyu.ca sells these, and they ship to the USA and internationally as well. In Australia, you’re in luck: Maconii carries them too.
An elegant straw system for your plants
When a friend in Sweden mentioned plantstraws as an option for me because I’m a notorious #plantkiller, I was intrigued. I know many of you love your plants and do far better at not murdering them than I do, so I thought you’d be interested too.
Plantstraws is the brainchild of Sweden’s Elin Fyhr, who wanted to make plant care effortless and believes that “design should be playful, curious, and unhurried”. Can’t find fault there.
The straws work by putting one end into a water jug and the other into the soil of your plants, allowing a cotton rope inside each brass tube to slowly add moisture to the soil without overwatering. This means you can put thirsty plants like swamp and rainforest native plants,on a similar care schedule as succulents, cacti or Mediterranean plants. They also add a fun look to any room with the brass tubes and glass jars:
More information: Where to buy: the Plantstraw website Shipping to: Canada, USA, and International. (Shipping outside Europe is costly, though), so you can also consult one of their resellers. For some reason the only ones in Canada are in Alberta; hopefully that changes one day soon! Follow them on: Instagram
Knitted cacti
With a mission to bring greenery to “every struggling plant parent”, Kelsea’s whimsical knitted cacti caught my eye at a local flea market. The business came about when Kelsea knitted her sister some cacti for Christmas, after seeing how her sister couldn’t keep plants alive.
Taking inspiration from real plants, Kelsea carefully crafts knit cacti and succulents in a variety of sizes, colours, and shapes. She also tries to use sustainable materials for other parts of her products: upcycled packaging, sustainable yarn and stuffing, plus reusing cardboard inside the pot to make them lighter weight for shipping.
The company is fully family-supported, including the build for the displays at the market stall I met her at.
I bought myself a mini cacti (though I’m having cactus regret that I didn’t get a larger one), and thought you may want one too.
One of two options (see Effin Birds below) for those who, like me, are in that sweet spot of Venn diagram overlap between swearing and birds. This time, a 1000-piece puzzle for you to put together once dinner is over.
I loved the colour (it matches my logo), and it has birds so I’m not really a tough sell here. For those in the winter cold, a puzzle is always a great way to pass a few hours of your time.
I bought Nessie the tea guardian the moment I saw her, and I am obsessed with it. I use Nessie whenever I have loose tea, and the satisfaction of watching her peek out from the cup rim will, I suspect, never get old.
For the tea lovers and whimsy lovers alike!
Also unmissable (if you’re me): the same company’s spaghetti monster strainer. I love it so much.
More information: Where to buy: Nessie: Amazon Canada, Amazon US. The spagetti monster strainer: Amazon Canada, Amazon US. This is the same company that also makes the mushroom funnel I currently own. Yes, I’m a statistic and I don’t care. You can also buy their products on the OTOTO Design website, but they only ship to the US. Follow them on: Instagram
Hummingbird ring
I enjoyed the symmetry and joy from this cute hummingbird ring, which can be ordered in 18K plated gold, or sterling silver. It’s from Little Rooms, a shop launched by designer Ester Delug in 2007. The shop has expanded quite a bit since then, but if you’re in the market for some fun and tasteful jewelry, you’ll certainly find something here.
They also sell beautiful hair accessories and ear cuffs, in addition to jewelry standards like necklaces and earrings.
I’ve had the pleasure of meeting the genius behind Birdstrips, Jess, in person in Montreal twice before we each moved elsewhere. Her illustrations have grown a huge following on Instagram due to their whimsical, relatable messaging.
In Jess’ words, the shop comprises “the existential distress of the flightless through the eyes of the flighted.”
Below, two prints from her shop: one a vintage-style poster of 33 “rarely seen” gulls, including the elusive popsigull, peagull, and pierogigulls; and the second, therapy “before and after”—in classic Birdstrips style.
I wasn’t sure if I could tolerate red light therapy with a mast cell disorder, but everything I read suggested that if I stayed at higher wavelengths of light, my mast cells would be less disrupted.
So I sought out a portable LED red light device that I could lift with a spinal CSF leak, but also that had options for higher nm of red light, so that I could hopefully tolerate it. That theory did bear out with my use of the FlexBeam, where I can use their Setting 3 for 20 minutes a day on my front and back when needed. I had to work up to that—I started at only 5 minutes—but now I can do the full 10 minute session twice without issue. I do use it earlier in the day in case it disrupts my mast cells enough to affect sleep, but most people actually use it right before bed because they say it helps them sleep.
I opted for this devices because from everything I read, its lamps didn’t get hot, and unlike laser light, I didn’t risk any tissue damage from the studies I looked at. While a combo of red and near-infrared wavelengths are recommended for most uses of the device, I opted for only level 3, its longest wavelight, which penetrates deeper but most importantly does not disrupt mast cells as much. I’ve found it increases my energy, helps with sleep (when I do it earlier in the day), and most importantly really takes down any nerve pain I have. I was sceptical when I started using it, but I have really come to enjoy how much it helps the spine pain from my leak.
The device comes with velcro bands that you attach at the handles, for when you want to loop it around a leg or your spine, as well as a slender carrying case. I use it as is (without the velcro) because I just place it on my spine or stomach where my leak sites are, but many people I’ve chatted with use it on their thigh or at lumbar while moving around.
The company is from Norway, but the device is made in Chiang Mai, Thailand.
More information: Where to buy: the FlexBeam website Shipping to: Worldwide Follow them on: Instagram
Birds + curse words
These illustrations of birds that swear in creative ways are popular all over the web, with good reason. As Twitter implodes and the world feels like it’s doing the same, the bird outrage by Aaron Reynolds says all that we are bottling up inside.
That doesn’t stop people from getting pissed off about the cursing, but … did you expect anything else from a company called Effin Birds?! He also now has wax candles, a new addition to his “shitmas” collection for people who dislike the holidays.
My friend Celeste is not only a great travel writer, but also runs an environmentally-friendly Tahitian pearl company, Kamoka, that adheres to the strictest levels of sustainable farming in the world. Their pearls are from oysters grown in the nutrient-rich lagoon of Ahe Atoll, 300 miles northeast of Tahiti, with electricity supplied by solar and wind power. And if you needed more convincing about supporting their enterprise: a National Geographic study found that their farming methods helped increase the area’s fish population in recent years.
One of their products I wear often: the Mana Bracelet. At $99, it is an investment, but a durable and beautiful one.
Celeste said that this bracelet was initially crafted for surfers. Now, it’s one of their best sellers for active people who want a beautiful pearl bracelet without worrying about fragility. The adjustable band is made from kangaroo leather (the strongest leather in the world), and is a great choice for the fashionable wanderer and the active fashionista alike.
They also now offer a new collection, featuring Tahitian blacklip oyster shells and jewelry made from their own sustainably produced mother-of-pearl. The earrings below are more affordable than the pearls alone, and are a beautiful gift for those who want something sustainable and different.
Many of Kamoka’s products are one of a kind, and are put together by Celeste and her team each year.
More information: Where to buy: The Mana Bracelet is available here. The full mother-of-pearl collection is here, with the earrings above here. If rings are your fancy, they’ve got a lovely aqua crescent ring this season as well. Shipping to: Worldwide Follow them on:Instagram
Embroidered heart maps
I met the lovely couple behind Sadie and June when at a flea market in Ottawa, and appreciated their fun offerings as a traveler with a lot of places I miss deeply. They sell hand-embroidered maps for 900 locations (and counting), either as stand-alone “I love this place” style, or connecting hearts, where there is a thread connecting two places. They also do custom maps, if your favourite destinations aren’t on offer presently.
The couple, whose names are actually Steve and Kendall, are a cross-border couple—something quite common here in the towns that border the US! She’s from New Jersey and he’s from Ottawa, but they met in Florida. Extremely popular any time I’ve seen their booth around town, they capture the nostalgia of leaving pieces of ourselves in places we loved.
Says Kendall, “Our hand-embroidered heart maps were born out of this love and our belief that love knows no borders. The concept: I began embroidering through paper vintage map prints that meant something special to me and Steve.”
The couple have a post about how they went from being ‘flat broke’ in 2014 to building a full-time business around their sewing skills. When I met Kendall at the market, she mentioned that as the business picked up she was struggling to get orders done … until she taught Steve how to sew, and that helped get the maps completed much faster. Now they are both working on their popular maps, and adding cities all of the time.
More information: Where to buy:the Sadie and June website Shipping to: Canada and the United States, as well as Europe Follow them on: Instagram
Those are my 2023 holiday gift picks! I hope you enjoy at least some of them.
Toyota was lucky enough to give U.S. buyers the GR Corolla. It’s the textbook definition of a hot hatch, and we love it. Unfortunately, there are still some fun products that we don’t get, like the GR Yaris itself, and some stuff that some would rather stay off our shores, like the recently introduced Yaris-based crossover the Lexus LBX.
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Luckily, though, Toyota and Lexus still have some enthusiasts at the helm of things. In a concept shown at the Tokyo Show, they’ve gone and dropped the GR Yaris’ drivetrain into the LBX. Dubbed the LBX Morizo RR Concept, it was developed in conjunction with Toyota chairman Akio Toyoda, a well-known enthusiast who’s also known as “Morizo” and a master driver.
Image: Lexus
The LBX Morizo is literally just a GR Yaris crossover. The 1.6-liter 300-horsepower turbocharged I3 was dropped in and paired with an eight-speed automatic and a full-time all-wheel drive system, though Lexus didn’t say whether or not the LBX had the same limited slip diffs as the GR Yaris. Other performance enhancements include “developments that covered the vehicle’s packaging, body, suspension, tires, AWD control,” though Lexus didn’t exactly say what those were.
Image: Lexus
Visually the LBX Morizo looks good. Up front it gets a unique fascia with larger, blacked-out grille openings featuring yellow trim, yellow brake calipers set behind 19-inch wheels, unique rear bumper with diffuser and the same dual exhaust outlets as the GR Yaris. Though no pictures of the interior were shown, it’s said that it’s equipped with unique sport seats and alloy pedals.
The LBX Morizo is a concept for now, as the automaker hasn’t said whether or not it has production plans. I wouldn’t be surprised to see this thing coming to market in Japan eventually though. For it to come here might be tricky and would require the standard LBX to make an appearance first and sadly a sub UX sized crossover doesn’t seem like something that would be in the cards for Lexus. Until any decision is made we’ll just keep watching from afar and hope for the best.
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