21: Cherry Blossoms, Calmcations, and Free Flights in Japan

Message from the Editor

It’s Pisces season, and I’ve been celebrating since February 28th—closing out Black History Month and diving straight into shark season. If you couldn’t tell, I’m not letting 2025’s chaotic headlines slow me down, and neither should you. Let’s keep the energy high and the frequency even higher.

This issue is stacked with stories worth your time. From Japan handing out free domestic flights to the rise of calmcations and D.C.’s cherry blossoms getting ready to bloom, there’s plenty to explore. Tap in, read up, and let me know what’s on your mind.

Jason C. Bass

Welcome to this month’s issue of The Bassport!

This issue is all about movement—whether it’s traveling smarter, embracing slow vacations, or staying ahead of the latest cultural shifts. Japan is giving away free domestic flights, calmcations are taking over as the new way to travel, and D.C.’s cherry blossoms are gearing up for peak bloom. Plus, Lacoste just delivered a winning collection at Paris Fashion Week, and Adidas and END. turned a sneaker drop into a love story. From fashion to travel to tech, consider this your March briefing on what’s fresh, what’s next, and what’s worth paying attention to.

• Japan Is Handing Out Free Flights—Here’s How to Get Yours

• Relax, It’s the Year of the Calmcation

• D.C.’s Cherry Blossoms Are About to Peak—Here’s When to Catch Them

• Lacoste Aces Paris Fashion Week with a Tennis-Ready Collection

• Now This Is a Brand Activation Done Right

• 15 Cool New Gadgets You Should Know About

Japan Is Handing Out Free Flights—Here’s How to Get Yours

Japan wants travelers to go beyond the usual Tokyo-Kyoto route, so Japan Airlines is offering free domestic flights to international visitors. The goal? To get tourists exploring lesser-known gems like Hokkaido, Kanazawa, and the tropical beaches of Okinawa.

It’s a dream deal for travelers, but some experts worry it could add to Japan’s growing tourism challenges. Either way, if Japan is on your list, this is your chance to see more of it—for free.

Read More: Travel Noire

Relax, It’s the Year of the Calmcation

2025 is making travel about actual relaxation.

Say goodbye to overbooked itineraries and frantic sightseeing marathons. The latest trend? Calmcations—where your only to-do list is deep breaths and slow mornings. Think boutique stays, spa retreats, and nature escapes designed for peace, not content.

If your last vacation felt more exhausting than your 9-to-5, this might be your sign to book something slower.

Read More: Late Checkout Time

D.C.’s Cherry Blossoms Are About to Peak—Here’s When to Catch Them

Nothing says spring in Washington, D.C., like cherry blossoms painting the city pink.

Every year, the National Cherry Blossom Festival honors Japan’s 1912 gift of 3,000 cherry trees, turning the nation’s capital into a pastel dream. This year’s peak bloom is predicted for March 28–31, with festival events running from March 20 to April 13.

If you’re planning a visit, now’s the time to book.

Read More: Travel + Leisure

Lacoste Aces Paris Fashion Week with a Tennis-Ready Collection

Lacoste closed out the final day of Paris Fashion Week with a runway show at Roland Garros that was equal parts sport and luxury. Venus Williams, Sampha, and Adrien Brody were front row as creative director Pelagia Kolotouros showcased her third collection—one that honored Lacoste’s tennis heritage while pushing it forward.

Kolotouros is proving that Lacoste isn’t just a legacy brand; it’s a modern statement.

Read More: Hypebeast

Now This Is a Brand Activation Done Right

Forget wedding bells—Adidas and END. just tied the knot in a whole new way.

Celebrating 20 years of partnership, they launched the Tying the Knot collection, reimagining the Japan OG W and Superstar Vintage sneakers. But instead of just a product drop, they turned it into a story—flying five couples to Berlin to explore love, heritage, and creative evolution.

This is how you do a collab with meaning.

Watch the Recap: Instagram
Read More: New Wave Magazine

15 Cool New Gadgets You Should Know About

Tech is moving fast, and last week was packed with major drops.

Apple unveiled new Macs and iPads, Samsung and Nothing showed off their next-gen smartphones, and high-end turntables made a comeback. That’s just the start—here’s everything you might have missed in the world of gadgets.

Read More: Gear Patrol

Your Turn

What’s on your radar this month? Travel plans? Fashion moves? Tech obsessions? Hit me up—I want to hear what’s got you excited.

Until next time, keep the vibes high.

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Thank you!