Send Q to Japan

Howdy! I'm Amanda Quraishi - also known as Q. I'm a writer living in Austin, Texas.

This year I'm turning 50, and there's really nothing I want more than an extended trip to explore Japan, a country I've been in love with since high school.

However, since I'm no longer employed and a trip to Japan is an expensive undertaking, I'm putting this fundraiser out here and asking friends, family and anyone else who is in the mood to do something nice to chip in a few bucks toward my goal.

Here's the Ja-plan:

1. My hope is to go to Japan in the late summer/early fall of 2024 for a minimum of four weeks. During my trip I'll travel from North to South and spend time exploring some of the less touristy areas.

2. I'll be traveling alone - but don't worry! Japan is one of the safest places in the world for travel.

3. I've read a lot about travel budgets in Japan and the amount of this fundraiser is about average based on the budget of $1500/week - plus airfare.

4. If I don't raise the full amount I'll have to adjust my travel plans, but that's ok. I *will* be going even if I can only afford to go for three days and I have to stay in $18/night hostels and eat at 7-11 every day.

5. If you're unable to donate cash but have some airline miles you'd be willing to donate to the cause, hmu!

6. If you donate to this fundraiser, you'll be invited to connect with me on Instagram and/or Facebook, where I'll share private videos and photos during my trip. You'll also receive a personal Thank You from me.

7. Anyone who donates more than $50 will also receive a postcard from Japan. xo