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Collage of images in Japan, Germany and Ecuador

The Expat Military Retiree Interview Series: Veterans Living Overseas

Welcome to Poppin’ Smoke’s Expat Military Retiree interview series! In this series, we feature profiles of veterans who moved overseas after retiring from military service. For those who love to travel, can’t imagine “settling down” after the constant changes of military life, or whose favorite duty station was in another …

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A red shrine in Japan surrounded by trees

Flying Space-A to Japan: 9 Things You Need to Know

Japan is one of the most unique travel destinations in the world and well worth the time and effort to get there. Military travelers are very fortunate, because we have the privilege of taking Space-A flights (aka “MAC” flights) to Japan, allowing us to save hundreds – or even thousands …

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European Lodging and Transportation Tips for Space-A Travelers

You’ve flown Space-A to Europe. Now what? Patricia Kuenzi, Space-A expert and avid European traveler, shares her tips for pre- and post-flight lodging, ground transportation, and many other tricks for making the most of your time in Europe! It’s generally easy for Space-A travelers to travel from the Continental U.S. …

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A black cat lying next to a brown dog with long ears

How to Become a House and Pet Sitter

House sitting is a great way to save money while traveling, especially if you enjoy taking care of pets. Kim Hinson and her husband, Kenny, are military retirees who have been house and pet sitting for many years. Here’s what the experts have to say about how to become a …

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the bright lights of downtown tokyo at night

Staying at the New Sanno Hotel in Tokyo

Did you know there is a U.S. military hotel in Tokyo, Japan where you can stay for a fraction of the price of comparable civilian hotels? It’s called the New Sanno, and it’s a luxury hotel run by the U.S. Naval Joint Services Activity. If you plan to visit Tokyo, …

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Mt Fuji in summer

Climbing Mt. Fuji in One Day: Planning, Logistics, and Pictures!

Mount Fuji has profound importance and a mystical quality to the Japanese people. They refer to it as “Fuji-san,” a name of respect for the sacred mountain. At an elevation of 12,388 feet, Fuji is the tallest mountain in Japan and unmistakable in photographs. If you’ve ever flown into one …

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