How To Choose Your Eyeglasses | AOJO Fashionable Prescription Eyewear

April 6, 2019, 7:11 am

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As a contact lens wearer, it has been years since the last time I replaced my eyeglasses. I am guilty of the mindset that I'd rather spend on my monthly (or 3-month) contact lenses, and make do with the specs that I only wear at home anyway. 

The downside of this is that I also got stuck with the eye grade I was used to since I was in Grade 5! I am not sure if it's the cause of my headaches, but I think my recent visit to an optical shop that carries fashionable eyewear and also encourages eye check-up in Alabang Town Center is very timely. 

AOJO (pronounced as O-JO) is an optical shop from Hong Kong that carries trendy eyewear from prescription eyeglasses to sunglasses. They have different shapes that I am really into right now, like rounds and hexagons, and frame materials like metals and plastic. 

Let me show you around their shop in Alabang Town Center:

Price range for their basic eyeglasses is from Php 1990 to 4990. 

Here are some of my favorites:

 

Round and oversized frames:

Bendable frames:

Hexagonal frames:

Tortoise plastic frames:

They have additional rates for add-ons:

And they have unique sunglasses styles too:

They also sell eyeglasses accessories, like this anti-skid tip:

What I like about AOJO is that they promote eye care above fashion. Their advocacy is eye health and the importance of early detection to prevent blindness!! They have a doctor in the store to check your eyes, and get your accurate grade and measurements for your specs. They will also be thorough in explaining the different lenses and upgrades that they offer in the store. 

Tumaas na pala ng konti yung grado ko and had minor astigmatism (whew). It's a good thing that I had my eyes checked! Will try to do this more regularly.

My mom talking to AOJO's resident eye doctor. She used to have 20/20 vision, but since she reached her 50s she needed reading glasses nadin.

A demo on how digital+ lenses protect the eyes from harmful UVs:

My final picks, two sunglasses for my summer travels, and a new everyday round eyeglasses with my updated eye prescription! 

Now here are some things to consider when buying a new eyeglasses: 

1) You will always read fashion tips on the right eyewear shape, color, and size for your face, but to me, if it's comfortable to you, if it's your personal style, and it does its job, then go for it!

2) Make sure it fits well. Since we all have unique face shape and size, AOJO makes sure they adjust their existing frames to what is comfortable to the wearer.

3) Consider the weight, especially when you'll wear it everyday! I realized that I got eyeglasses marks on my nose bridge because of wearing heavy frames. 

4) Update your prescription. Have your eyes examined at least every 2 years.

5) Although expensive, some add-ons might be necessary! Figure out exactly what you need and what will fit your lifestyle. I made sure to get the Digital+ lenses from AOJO since my work entails me to be on my phone and laptop almost the whole day.

So happy with my new stylish prescription eyeglasses! Now I don't have to wear my contact lenses every time I go out.

AOJO is located in Alabang Town Center, SM North EDSA, SM Southmall, Ayala Mall Cloverleaf, Southwoods Mall, Ayala Mall Centrio, SM City Seaside Cebu. 

For more information, visit AOJO Philippines on Facebook and @AojoPH on Instagram.

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Body and Skincare Empties: My Current Favorite Products!

April 8, 2019, 12:53 am

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I have a guilty pleasure and that is to finish up a tub, tube, or bottle of beauty product. I think it's a waste when I open a new one and I am still halfway my current skincare. Naguguilty talaga ako!

But with my line of work where I regularly receive products to feature or for review, it is a bit impossible not to try more than one product at a time. It is then a much bigger achievement for me when I use up the whole thing and not:

1) Give up on a product till it expires and I just have to throw it away, 

or 2) Send barely used products to my sisters' or mom's room for them to try (and hopefully finish!).

Here are the products that I currently used up til the last "drop"! Medyo recent ko lang naisip to gather everything, siguro just 3 weeks ago when I placed a paper bag by my trash bin so I can shoot my empties in the hopes of blogging about them someday.

This feature is inspired by Korean vlogger Joan Keem's Empties segment where she shows paper bags filled with all her empty skincare and makeup packagings. Ang konti palang pala ng sa akin, but this whole time feeling ko ang dami na hehehe. I'll try to do this biannual or yearly next time? 

Here goes my list!

I realized that most of my makeup empties are for my base, I barely finish pans of blush or eyeshadows, or a tube of lipstick except for lip tints and lip balms. 

I highly recommend the Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence with SPF 50 because of its lightweight consistency, gentle scent, and matte finish on my face. 

After finishing up I think about 3 tubes of this, I tried other brands and Cetaphil Sun with SPF 50+ has been a very good alternative since I was able to use this in both city and beach trips. I am not sure if it gives off white cast on pictures since it is in white cream form and a bit heavy, but so far I have no extremely bad reviews about this product--and it definitely lasted me for months! Yung gustong gusto mo na mag try ng bagong SPF kaya I even used this on my arms just to finish the tube na, haha!

The two black tubes on the photo above are my all-time favorite BB Cream from iWhite Korea which is the BB Holic Everyday BB Cream in Beige. I've used up more than 5 of this for sure (not counting the sachets)! As you can see, the last tube has the Mimi Shop sticker pa on it which means I opened it last August 2018 pa, and just finished it this month (April 2019). I really hoard this in Lazada, Watsons, or in Metro Department Store! It's my go-to, everyday base!

These are the products that I only use at night (except for the facial wash).

One of my favorite facial wash to date is the Neogen Real Fresh Foam Green Tea, I think this is already my 3rd or 4th bottle! I usually get this in BeautyMNL or in Korea (sa Olive Young), medyo mahal lang sya at Php 800 ish and mabilis pa maubos since ang saya mag pump ng foam haha, so I had to try other facial wash brands after every bottle! But I really love this, feel ko super gentle nya since foam wash sya, and since it is green tea, very good din for acne prone skin.

Another bottle that has been in my skincare table for years now is BEACHBORN's Healing Toner! I am proud to have tried this back in its test-mode pa in 2017 since my friend is the owner of the brand. It contains Witch Hazel which I think helps a lot in my acne prone skin. I also like its scent, so I enjoy spraying this after cleansing my face and before applying other products. This toner is also super affordable at Php 150 for the smallest bottle so sulit din! Also, you get to support a small local business!!

I've known of the Innisfree Green Tea Seed Serum for the longest time, but only became a fan after trying it since their first store opening here in Manila (Mall of Asia). I love its comforting scent, its moisturizing feeling to my face, and also its consistency na hindi super lagkit and can be layered with other products pa. It was a perfect addition to my 10-step nightly skincare routine!

I've always been a Cosrx fan because most of their products target skin concerns that I have like big pores, blackheads, acne, etc. I tried the Cosrx Centella Blemish Ampule while looking for products with centella asiatica ingredient in Althea Korea (which, again, is good for acne prone skin haha). Nothing super woah with the product, but I guess it did helped in keeping my face clear even during time of the moment. It is also a bit expensive at Php 1300, but worth the try and might even repurchase when I have the budget again.

And lastly for my skincare empties is another iWhite Korea product which is the Vitamin Sleeping Gel Mask. This is comparable to Laneige's tub of sleeping mask, but only with travel-friendly packaging, pocket-friendly price (Php 229), and vitamin C in the ingredient. I also use AHA/BHA in my current skincare, na bawal daw ma mix sa Vitamin C so I don't use my Klairs muna. But I think the formula of iWhite is gentler so I get to also use it with my AHA/BHA without negative reactions.

Again, I have a dozen more lip balm products that I have finished up before thinking of this feature because I am addicted to them! I think habit ko na to get the tube from my pocket or bag and swipe on my lips anytime anywhere--during bus rides, while waiting in a counter for my change, and most especially during travels! What I like about Vaseline Lip Therapy Rosy Lips is that it is not only mabango and moisturizing on the lips, it also leaves red tint so I don't look pale naman whenever I am out (I am not a fan of lipstick).

Just some of the body care products I consumed during the past weeks: Love Beauty And Planet Tea Tree & Vetiver Body Wash (Php 290), Human Heart Nature's Volcanic Cooling Body Scrub (which I only got to use again recently since uminit na uli!), and a Myra Vitawhite Lotion that I bought in Lazada a few months ago to even out my arms (since I always have on my watch and I don't wear sleeveless--di talaga pantay kulay ko!).

And finally, I think my most favorite part of my nightly skincare routine is using up these pads! My favorites are definitely the Cosrx One Step Original Clear Pad and Neogen Bio-Peel+ Gauze Peeling Green Tea. Both are very good to acne prone skin, although Cosrx's I can use daily since it's just a toner. I have a small tub for this so I can even bring a few during my trips. The Neogen can only be used once a week, or every 3 days, basta may interval since exfoliator sya. Like the facial wash, it has green tea na sobrang favorite ng skin ko, but it is also expensive at around Php 1300 kaya ang hirap i-maintain! Haha! Sigure I'll buy a tub nalang uli pagka balik ng Korea, but it is also available in apps like BeautyMNL or Althea.

The final tub is so-so lang, when I tried a different brand para medyo makatipid. I think okay naman the Nacific Fresh Herb Origin Cotton Toner (Php 690), but ang bilis mag dry up ng pads because of bad packaging (hindi masyado sealed). Inubos ko padin siya coz sayang. Not in photo, but another toner pads brand I tried na okay naman is the Purito Centella Green Level All in One Mild Pad (Php 730). Meanwhile, I am currently using the Tea Cell One Step Clear Pad--again, basta may nabasa akong Centella or Green Tea, ok na! 😀

Sharing photos of my bare face during a recent beach trip:

It says a lot to the brand and product effectivity kapag naubos mo sya, right? Share to me your current "empties" and products you will surely repurchase! Most of the products that I use I just purchase online via Althea Korea and BeautyMNL, or Lazada for Watsons products, or in Korea in Olive Young.

3 Hours In Tokyo!

April 8, 2019, 11:07 pm

≫ Next: REDISCOVERING MANILA: Where To Go, Where To Stay, Etc. | Hotel Lucky Chinatown Is Now Open!

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If you only have a few hours in Tokyo, where will you go?

For our Hokkaido winter trip last February, we had about 3 hours to spare in Tokyo before our flight back to Manila from Narita International Airport. It's our free time so we can do and go wherever we want! It's our shopping day, too!

Looking past tall skyscrapers and complex overpass, I caught some of the iconic landmarks of Tokyo perfectly framed by our tour bus windows.

As our tour guide showed us photos and snippets of Tokyo from a clear book, we passed by the Rainbow Bridge of Odaiba, had a glimpse of the Tokyo Tower on left side window of the bus, saw the detailed Tokyo Skytree at a distance, and then eventually got off Shinjuku where we were left on our own to explore.

I still got the chills Tokyo gave me the first time I was here. Konnichiwa, my favorite city!

I was talking to Shaira a while back when she asked me about Tokyo pre-loved shops on our few hours in the city. It's her thing, if you follow her social media life you'll know that most if not all her clothes are from second hand shops all over the world! It's her first time in Japan, and it's impossible if she'll not visit even just one while she's here.

Most of the thrift stores that I know of in Tokyo are in Harajuku. There's a haven for second hand luxury bags in a corner of Takeshita (Brand Off!) and along Jingumae (Ragtag!), and of course, the popular pre-owned clothing shop Chicago which is also in Takeshita.

With the consent and company of our guides, and a Suica card in my pocket, we hopped in a train to Harajuku for our short Tokyo shopping adventure!

I cannot count the number of times I've been here, and I know it is already infamous for being crowded, overpriced, and touristy. But Takeshita will always have a special place in my ❤. It showed me the extreme and varied culture of Tokyo on my first time here in 2015--where being different is very much welcome.

This is the entrance to the thrift clothing shop of Takeshita called Chicago. The price is not super cheap, but you'll spot great finds from sports and luxury brands. They have stuff from Adidas to Burberry.

They also carry Japanese sukajan (souvenir jackets) and kimono.


The displays are all well-styled, it's fun and inspiring to shop away!




Aside from clothes, they also have shoes and accessories:




Remake Cut Shirt section:

Shaira said she'll stay in Chicago for the rest of our hours here, so I left her to roam around Takeshita. The few hours I was alone again suddenly made me miss the solo traveling life! I checked out the stores that I want (WeGo, Daiso, and a sneakers store), had snack in Lotteria (mozarella cheese sticks!), and took lots of random street snaps along the way. 

Sakura and other spring themed knick knacks in Daiso:

Was able to get a black suede bucket hat in WeGo. Most of my nice caps are from this brand!

Neon Fila Disruptor!

We eventually met up with our guide so we can go back to Shinjuku on time. We're still early for our meet up with the group, so we decided to just go around for a "photo walk" aka take pictures of our Tokyo OOTDs, lels.

Vanity aside, we also went inside the huge Don Quijote store of Shinjuku, starting from the top floor heading down. They have EVERYTHING that you need if you're planning to shop during your limited stay in Tokyo. Preloved luxury goods on the top floor, Japanese beauty brands, costumes, electronics, and even Japanese snacks!







We had no patience to look for a lunch place (haha) so we just went to a kombini near Don Quijote. When I travel alone, my usual go-to food place is either cafes or convenience stores para mabilisan, haha!

Tiny cans of Sapporo and Asahi beer in Don Quijote:

Just passed by this pre-owned luxury goods store:

Shaira said that when you look up and around this part of Shinjuku, it's as if we're taken back to the 80s!

Final Tips!

First Things First

❤ Tokyo is about 1.5 hours away from Narita International Airport. Make sure that you allot enough time to get to the airport 2 hours before your flight.

❤ Going around with your luggage is super hassle, and might even slash off minutes from your limited time in the city (from slow walking, carrying, etc). Tokyo offers coin lockers in their major train stations where you can leave your bags first so you can conveniently explore. Price is according to the size of the locker, and they even have big ones that will fit really large luggages.

❤ And since you're already in a train station, the best transportation to go around Tokyo for me is still their subway. Download the Tokyo Subway app, and since you'll only be here for a few hours, you don't have to get a reloadable card and just purchase individual tickets to your destination.

Where to go?

1) Shibuya - Hachiko statue, Shibuya Crossing, shopping, and Ichiran ramen
2) Shinjuku - Don Quijote, GU (Uniqlo's sister company, but a bit cheaper), Ichiran ramen
3) Harajuku - Takeshita, Jingumae (my favorite), and Cat Street

Shibuya and Harajuku are relatively "walking distance", so if you're a walker or feeling hyper on your trip, you can go to both places to explore, take photos, eat, and shop.

Where to eat?

1) Ichiran
2) Any convenience store - Lawson, Family Mart, 7Eleven

Where to shop?

1) GU
2) Don Quijote
3) Daiso
4) WeGo

You can check out my other Japan Travel Blogs and Alternative Tokyo Itinerary.

Special thanks to Japan Airlines and Havas Manila for having me for this media trip! Thank you Mr. Ogawa, Mika San, Cid and Jookie for taking care of us! I've been to a lot of cities since our Japan winter trip last February, but I can still remember every destination, every food we ate, and all the beautiful memories we had in this beautiful country! Thank you for taking me to another side and explore MORE OF JAPAN. ❤

REDISCOVERING MANILA: Where To Go, Where To Stay, Etc. | Hotel Lucky Chinatown Is Now Open!

April 11, 2019, 6:21 am

≫ Next: LET'S FLY TO MARINDUQUE! | DAY 1: Marinduqueños' Warm Welcome

≪ Previous: 3 Hours In Tokyo!

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I am a tourist of my own country.

I am guilty of not travelling more around my own country, the Philippines. But I am recently changing this by having at least once a month trip in our beautiful provinces: Iloilo, La Union, Bohol, Marinduque, etcetera. But as they say bat pa tayo lalayo, I really want to get to know more of my home MANILA. 

I recently redisovered that Manila has so much to offer especially to those willing to explore it. One of my main goals this year is to create a Manila Itinerary, to stay for about a night or 2 in our capital city and pretend I am an outsider.. a traveller!

Everyday I will make sure to maximize my stay in this rich and colorful city by exploring must-visit sites like a real tourist. 

And so Mabuhay! Sharing some of the things included in the Manila travel list I am currently building.

Where To Go?

Like in any trips, I want a mix of culture and history, adventure and outdoor, food trip, shopping, and other new things to do.

History and Culture:

1) Intramuros / Fort Santiago

2) San Agustin Church

3) Manila Cathedral

4) Museums: National Museum of Natural History, National Museum of Fine Arts, etc.

5) Escolta

Outdoor Activities:

1) Rizal Park - also known as Luneta. Just chill or take a stroll and check out important monuments of the country

2) Chinatown - Photowalk, shopping, and food trip in Binondo

3) Sunset in Roxas Boulevard / Baywalk

4) Star City (theme park)

5) Intramuros Bambike Tour

Shopping and Food Trip:

1) Quiapo - Villalobos for accessories, Hidalgo for camera and parts, Raon for eletronics, Paterno for eyeglasses. (I went to UST for college so I used to always explore Quiapo!)

2) Divisoria

3) Baclaran

4) Lucky Chinatown Mall

5) Binondo Food Crawl!

Other things to do may as well include The Dessert Museum in S Maison (went here a few days ago), the Planetarium, and Manila Ocean Park.

Do you have other things that I can add here?

Where To Stay?

I've been searching for an ideal accommodation where I can spend a few nights for my Manila exploration. The new Hotel Lucky Chinatown may seem like the best bet.

Photo from http://megaworldcorp.com

The Hotel Lucky Chinatown is located at the heart of Binondo, Manila, the world’s oldest Chinatown. It is right next to the Lucky Chinatown shopping center, and even has a connection so you can conveniently shop and eat, then go back to your hotel room.

Hotel Lucky Chinatown has 93 rooms and suites, and has 3 different room types: the Standard Room (twin beds or 1 queen sized bed), the Junior Suite, and the Suite. 

All rooms in the hotel is equipped with everything you'll need for a relaxing accommodation: a flat-screen TV, a seating area, free Wifi, and a private bathroom with free toiletries.

As for the facilities, the Hotel Lucky Chinatown has a zen garden, gym, and a spa with hot tub and sauna. The sauna and spacious gym look so inviting--I will definitely be back to try them out!

They also have a restaurant and bar:

Heading out, the Hotel Lucky Chinatown is within 1.9 km of Fort Santiago 2 km of the Manila Cathedral, 2.1 km of San Agustin Church, 2.4 km from Intramuros, and 2.8km from Rizal Park. 

The NAIA International Airport is about 13km from the property.

Mode of transportations to go around can be via GRAB taxi hailing app, or if you're adventurous, you can also walk, take a padyak (pedicab), the jeepney, and the trains.

Hotel Lucky Chinatown is located in Reina Regente St, Binondo, Manila. For for information like room rates and updates, you can follow them on Facebook or visit their website at https://www.hotelluckychinatown.com/.

 They have 3 function rooms for events named after famous streets in Manila--Ongpin, Benavidez, and the Escolta--where we celebrated the hotel's opening yesterday, April 10, 2019.

We all received red string bracelets to ward negativity, and allow good things in our lives!

Best wishes to Hotel Lucky Chinatown, and I can't wait to experience your new accommodation!

LET'S FLY TO MARINDUQUE! | DAY 1: Marinduqueños' Warm Welcome

April 15, 2019, 7:25 am

≫ Next: LET'S EXPLORE MARINDUQUE! | Day 2: Things To Do In The "Heart of the Philippines"

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In my country, the Philippines, we have 7000+ islands, countless festivals held in even more countless barangays, municipalities, towns and cities. How many of them have you already visited?

A good news to those planning on a trip to Marinduque, especially this Holy Week!

You do not have to take the long and gruelling 8-hour bus and ferry ride from Manila just to reach this beautiful heart-shaped island in Luzon, the home of Moriones Festival. Cebu Pacific now flies direct from Manila to Marinduque, and the flight will only take ONE HOUR! 😍

I can hear Marinduqueños' applause with this new transportation option! It will not only bring tourism to the province, but also it will make traveling easier for their locals.

Cebgo is using their brand-new ATR 72-600 aircraft 3x a week for this new route, from Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 4 direct to the Marinduque Airport.

The new route just started last April 1, where I was invited along with other travel writers to join and explore Marinduque. It was my first time! I had no plans and expectations, but to just go with the flow of this organized tour. But I tell you, this island is not only named the HEART of the Philippines for its shape, but also for its wonderful sites and people!

To celebrate the first Manila to Marinduque flight, Cebu Pacific awarded a round trip ticket to the first passenger who checked in. Ang swerte ni sir!

I felt nothing but good vibes and excitement as we boarded Cebu Pacific flight DG 6007. Everyone's buzzing, majority of the passengers felt like they know each other. There was a photo wall right before exiting the boarding gate which we of course quickly availed, and all the passengers were handed Cebu Pacific freebies (a yellow pouch).

We barely took a bite of our inflight food when the pilot announced preparation for landing! Ganun kabilis! 😂 When our aircraft touched the ground, the whole plane clapped and cheered, what a joy to be there with this happy crowd!

Water salute! It was my first time to witness this airport tradition for new airline service.

The welcoming committee does not end there! As we walked toward the arrival section, Marinduqueños showed us how they treat their guests: With warmth, smiles, gifts, and music! 

Roman soldiers for Moriones Festival were also at the Marinduque Airport arrival section to welcome the first Cebu Pacific passengers to arrive in their island.

They also handed us Marinduque art fans, necklaces with the Morion, and sweet drinks as we snaked our way to our checked-in bags. 

After the airport festivities, we hopped in our service van, and stopped by the Amana Resort or Marinduque's Little Secret. It was our first attempt to catch Marinduque's sunset.

DINNER AT CASA DE DON EMILIO

We were a little too late for the sunset, but it was a nice ice breaker for the group! We also met with our guides for the rest of the trip here, and were directed to our next stop: Dinner in Casa De Don Emilio!

Casa de Don Emilio is located along Mercader St. in Boac. It was already nighttime, so the roads were quiet and most establishments were already closed. I like the peace and quiet of being in a province, especially at night! We weren't done yet with the day's itinerary, but I was already thinking of how good our sleep will be here in this small town.

Btw, it was also a treat that our dinner place is a Spanish ancestral house filled with stories and details! It's like hitting two birds with one stone: a tourist spot and a restaurant in one. For our dinner, they served us authentic Marinduque cuisines--mostly saucy viands that went well with warm white rice. 

If you're heading to Marinduque, then you must dine here! You can also visit the Marinduque Museum during the day, which is just across the Casa de Don Emilio.

Nightcap: Coffee, tea, and sweets at the 10y.o Cafe, right next to our hotel.

PUTONG: MARINDUQUE'S WARM WELCOME

This is something new to me! I've visited several of our cities and provinces here in the Philippines, but the Southern Tagalog province of Marinduque has a unique traditional ceremony for their guests (especially for first time visitors) that they call Putong.

Also known as tubong, the putong is a kind of ceremony performed for visitors of Marinduque to honor and make the guests feel like kings and queens. We all gathered and sat in front of the women. They were all wearing kimono and saya, carrying baskets of flowers, palm leaves, and coins.

Putong starts with a slow song and simple dance, accompanied by a guitarist. It's their way of praying for your happiness, blessings, and safety. Then the song picks up the tempo, as the women approached us -- placing wooden crowns on our heads. They showered us with coins (for good luck) and candies which we all picked up, and then danced with them too!

It was a fun tradition, and a festive night! What a welcome on my first night here in Marinduque, thank you!

WHERE WE STAYED

And finally, after that long day, we finally checked-in our hotel for two nights. Balar Hotel and Spa is located in Boac, a fairly new accommodation here in Marinduque. They only opened last year (2018), but our stay was already pretty much comfortable since they have everything you'll need in a hotel.

Balar Hotel and Spa offers air conditioned rooms, breakfast buffet, a spa, free WiFi, 24-hour front desk, and a garden and private beach area.

I also love the design of the hotel, very modern and artsy!

With a long day (coming from my flight from Bohol, and then hopping to the plane for Marinduque) I felt so grateful to get a solo room! Here's a tour of my Queen Room with Balcony (around Php 2970 / night).

Very spacious, the open closet is very industrial and modern:

Toilet and bath, complete with hot and cold shower, toiletries, hair dryer, and a bidet!

A little close-up: Above my bed is a blow-up photo of a site in Marinduque. I like this touch! It's a foresight of how I will get to know the people of this island in the coming days: People who are very proud of their roots, and very welcoming to their guests! Excited to write about our Day 2, or our one full day of exploring Marinduque's highlights!

Balar Hotel and Spa

Brgy. Balaring Boac, Marinduque 4900 

Call 0917 882 2527

facebook | booking.com

To be continued.

Special thanks to Cebu Pacific Air, Stratworks Inc, Michelle and Erika, Romeo Mataac of Marinduque News, and to the kindest Sir Nelson and Ms. Susan Nace of Dream Favor Travel and Tours!

Curious about Marinduque? Checked the price for next month's flights, and estimate cost of ROUNDTRIP tickets is about Php 4000+ base fare. Visit https://www.cebupacificair.com to check and book your flight to Marinduque! 

LET'S EXPLORE MARINDUQUE! | Day 2: Things To Do In The "Heart of the Philippines"

April 17, 2019, 3:35 am

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≪ Previous: LET'S FLY TO MARINDUQUE! | DAY 1: Marinduqueños' Warm Welcome

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We had one full day to immerse ourselves in this quiet and underrated island of Marinduque. If given more days, I'd like to stay for a week just to go check out the sandbars and go on a island hopping, try the sulfur therapeutic pool at night, and explore more of its town proper (heritage houses).

For now, it's nice that we had a sneak-peek of the heart of the Philippines which made me appreciate Marinduque more and its people. Here is a list of places that we visited that you might want to include on your Marinduque travel itinerary.

Tall coconut trees when I went out of my hotel room in Balar Hotel & Spa:

1. Marl Insect and Butterfly Garden

Marl Insect and Butterfly Garden is the first butterfly garden in Marinduque. When you enter their gate, it appears like a normal residential house from the outside. Inside, you will be welcomed by a souvenir shop selling framed butterflies, butterfly pupae (that they export to other countries like New Zealand, Singapore, and even Italy!), and other butterfly themed merch like shirts and house displays.

We enjoyed a few minutes at their butterfly garden, while watching the butterflies swarm around the sweet flowers. Took lots of photos and Boomerangs too!

2. St. Joseph Church in Gasan

Built in 1609, the St. Joseph Church in Gasan is located on top of a hill--lending a splendid view of the town and the ocean to its visitors. It has intricate architecture from inside-out, including a unique fan carvings on its ceiling, the main altar adorned with white saints, and beams made of polished coconut shells. Make sure to also check the garden. 

3. Gasan Freedom Park

We took a quick stop at the Gasan Freedom Park to check out the Gasan Sea View Park and cross the Gasan Municipal Hanging Bridge.

Aside from a place to chill, this is also the entry point for the popular island-hopping destingations of Marinduque namely the Gaspar, Melchor, and Baltazar, collectively known as the Tres Reyes Islands.

4. Malbog Sulfuric Resort

Japanese onsen, Korean jjimjilbang, or Budapest's Széchenyi Thermal Bath? Count me in! I am all for these hot springs and therapeutic pools--so when we visited Marinduque's Malbog Sulfuric Resort, I am partly torn and would want to stay here and take a dip!

The Malbog Sulfuric Resort collects their sulfuric waters from Mt. Malindig. I've always known that sulfur is great for the skin, but it also has health benefits including treatment to digestive problems and overall very relaxing too! They have Japanese guests who go here at night when air is cool, and the hot water feels really good on the skin.

Entrance fee is only Php 45 (adult), and Php 30 (Kids, Seniors, PWD). Must go back here soon!

5. View of Mt. Malindig & Bellarocca

Speaking of Mt. Malindig, we also caught a view of this potentially active stratovolcano and the highest peak in the island. If you are into hiking, you can conquer this mountain on your trip which will take about 5 hours. Okay na ako to see it from afar, hehehe!

Another view that caught my attention was our quick stop to see the Bellaroca or Elephant Island (because of its shape) from the main road. The Bellaroca was once a luxury resort in Marinduque, popular to the upscale and celebrities for its privacy and Santorini vibe. It is currently closed down, but hoping through the new Manila-Marinduque Cebu Pacific flights they will find interest in reopening and bringing this resort back to its former glory.

6. Poctoy White Beach in Torrijos

Imagine 1 kilometer stretch of white-sand beach minus the tourist crowd, and with a nice backdrop of a mountain while you swim its clear blue waters. That's the Poctoy White Beach for you! Willing to go back here to avail the beach more! Resorts are already being constructed in the area so you can stay by the beach area on your Marinduque trip.

7. Original Arrowroot Cookies Maker  

What to take home for families and friends from your Marinduque trip? An easy pasalubong and delicious Marinduque delicacy are the arrowroot cookies (or uraro). These cookies are not too sweet and melts in your mouth--made of starch from rootstock that Marinduque is abundant of! Perfect with your afternoon coffee.

Visit Rejano Bakery in Sta. Cruz, they've been making these cookies and other pastries and sweets for over 60 years already.

8. Sunset in Luzon Datum of 1911 in Mogpog 

An amazing fact about Marinduque is that it is not only called as the "Heart of the Philippines" for the island's shape, but also because you'll find here the geodetic center of the Philippines!

To get to the monumental rock marker on top of Mt. Mataas in Mogpog, we climbed around 460+ steep concrete stairs. Luzon Datum represents the 0.0 reference point in any maps done in the country. Aside from seeing this important stone marker, you'll also find here a viewing deck for Tayabas Bay, Mompong Pass, and part of Tablas Strait.

We waited till sunset, and the view was worth it!

9. Dinner at Cafe Mamita

And lastly, our final stop for this trip is a dinner in Cafe Mamita, located on the ground floor of the first hotel in Marinduque called the Boac Hotel. They serve fresh Marinduqueño dishes, and have a souvenir shop for your uraro and other pasalubong shopping.

The location of the Boac Hotel / Cafe Mamita is also very central, it's the perfect accommodation for your Marinduque tours. Make sure to book in advance as they only have a few rooms and they sell out fast--especially during the holy week! They say that you can even watch the parade from your room.

Before we knew it, it was time to check out from our hotel, and leave for the Marinduque Airport. It was a short trip, but I definitely gained a lot of new friends and fresh insights about this part of our beautiful country! Someday, let's try local solo traveling noh? I might even consider starting with this peaceful town of Marinduque.

Read my first Marinduque travel blog post (Marinduque's Warm Welcome + Where We Stayed).

Special thanks to Cebu Pacific Air, Stratworks Inc, Michelle and Erika, Romeo Mataac of Marinduque News, and to the kindest Sir Nelson and Ms. Susan Nace of Dream Favor Travel and Tours!

Curious about Marinduque? Checked the price for next month's flights, and estimate cost of ROUNDTRIP tickets is about Php 4000+ base fare. Visit https://www.cebupacificair.com to check and book your flight to Marinduque every Monday, Wednesday and Saturday!

My HS Best Friend's Wedding: Amorita Resort Bohol | Barkada Getaway

April 19, 2019, 1:14 am

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≪ Previous: LET'S EXPLORE MARINDUQUE! | Day 2: Things To Do In The "Heart of the Philippines"

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The last time I went on a trip with my high school barkada was about 4 years ago in Boracay. So when my best friend from high school announced that she'll hold a big wedding in Bohol (she's already married civil in Belgium, where she also currently resides with the hubby), everyone's so excited!

We booked our rooms in advance, followed by our flights, and then eventually spent time shopping for clothes, shoes and accessories to wear for the festivities. Medyo nakakatawa, we were comparing all our pre-trip gastos, and sobrang quota talaga lalo na sa shoppingan hahaha!

I under-researched for this trip since we really had no other plans aside from making the most out of our expensive resort (Amorita). At first I was eyeing an island hopping since it's the only touristy activity I haven't done in Bohol, and about 2 to 3 travel writers I talked with said that Bohol is their favorite island hopping destination. But when our travels dates arrived, we still opted to just chill.

Finally, nakapag relax ako knowing that I do not have any posting requirements for this. It was a much needed "documentation break". But even with less Instagram posts and stories, of course I still took time to photograph and video our moments there. Just the thought that I don't have to edit a pic or think of a caption on the spot was a big relief and refreshing for me!

So anyway, back to the trip!

ARRIVAL

Since we're a big barkada, naturally small groups were formed and we booked our hotel rooms and airfares separately. I was with Ana, Reg, Me-an, and Cheeno (roomies!). I think we were the second batch to arrive in Amorita.

I was worrying about my luggage weight since I already brought my Marinduque stuff (sunod sunod na sya). But luckily, first weight of my bag was only 17.2 kilos--may room pa for pasalubong! Hehe!

We booked our 2-bedroom suite waaay back, so I was feeling the perks when we arrived at the new Bohol airport in Panglao. Free airport shuttle bus from Amorita Resort? Check!

We received the usual welcome drinks and hot hand towels, but what amused me most was this sign by the entrance bearing the names of our friends. Ang special nemen!

First meal in Amorita was in their main restaurant called Saffron. We also had our buffet breakfasts here, happy hour drinks, and actually most of our other meals!

Medyo pricey sa Saffron, ranging from 300-500 per head per meal. But when I received my total bill (since a friend just swiped with her card all the room charges), I only paid about Php 2000 for this whole trip's meals and massage! Di ko talaga alam paano nangyari yun haha, but thank you talaga for pre-travel allotment and budgeting hindi ko na naramdaman the rest of our trip's gastos! 😁

OUR ROOM IN AMORITA RESORT BOHOL

As mentioned earlier, we booked our room waaay in advance. It's a good thing because at least we weren't able to feel the bulk of expenses in one seating. We got the 2BR Seaview Suit, a package included in a cost sheet sent to us by the bride (special rates, I guess).

Here's the price list sent to us:

March 29-31   |   Price Per Night in USD   |   Maximum Guests Per Room

Junior Suite - USD 418 | 3 Guests
1-Bedroom Suite - USD 531 | 4 Guests
1BR Seaview Suite | USD 469 | 4 Guests
2-Bedroom Seaview Suite | USD 966 | 6 Guests

We were able to reserve the highlighted one, which we assumed is the "best room" in Amorita (lol). True enough, I was out of words the moment we entered our suite!

Here's the HUGE living room! It has 2 sofa beds at the center, a dining area, a side table area, and a veranda. It is so spacious, it can house the whole barkada ... sa totoo lang! Hahaha!

Go straight to the left side from the doorway, and you'll be in a tiny corner for the pantry. I wasn't able to take a picture but on the other side facing this counter is a mini fridge and sink. In photo, we have a coffee maker (Nespresso), glasses and mugs, and bottles of drinking water. Everything here is refillable (even the soda and juices inside the ref), we just have to call room service!



On to the bedrooms!

First room has a king sized bed and its own bathroom with bath tub and double sink vanity:

Second room aka my room with Ana and Reg has 2 double beds and the same spacious bathroom!

It was easy to prep before the festivities, sharing this to my 2 other friends:

Very "dream condo" sya noh! To check out the other rooms and more info about the 2BR Seaview Room of Amorita, check out this page.

WHITE WELCOME PARTY

On our first night in Amorita, the couple hosted a welcome party for all the guests. It was an intimate gathering of about 100, and you'll see doon palang how the wedding will just be with the closest families and friends.

Since we have two parties for this trip, I decided to bring my new Remington Air 3D hair dryer! This tool was just perfect, it cuts drying time in half, lightweight so it was easy to pack, and helps rid of hair frizz without drying my hair.





Made sure to lend it also to my roomies:


Here's my look for the White Welcome Party. I bought the dress in SM Woman's Coco Cabana for only Php 1000, which I think worked well with the theme (white), the venue (outdoors, overlooking the beach), and my personal style!

I also bought this pair of rattan mules from Payless at the last minute, but sulit naman as they are very comfortable and in-theme.

The sunset was so pretty that night. It lent us a backdrop of pinks, purples, and blues so I made sure to take lots of photos! We had cocktails, picas, a cool ambiance and chill music, then by past 7pm, the group dispersed for dinner.

Just to try something different, we went to the 2nd floor resto from Saffron Amorita called Tomar Tapas x Bar. I remembered this from my first time in this resort for an event, but it tastes twice as good when you're with friends!

For the vegetarians, I had two potato dishes that filled me up quickly. They also serve tapas and paellas. Best with wine, of course!

Spain trip next, yes!??

THE WEDDING DAY

The morning of the wedding day, we woke up to a special alarm called Me-an's "GOOD MORNING!", as she bursts loudly to our room! Hahaha!

As promised, the roomies were dedicated to get up and avail the free yoga class (must sign up in advance) offered by the resort. When we got there, our teacher was already setting up our mats overlooking the beach!

I was active in hot yoga before here in Alabang, but haven't done it in YEARS! Nakakamiss din pala. It has its own benefits that the gym never satisfied me with. I guess it is because yoga, more than losing weight, is all about listening to your body as if you're in a moving meditation.

Everyone's in a yoga high after that 1.5 hours class! Haha!

Alam nyo anong pinaka masarap? Breakfast buffet after a morning yoga class!!!

It was still early to prepare for the wedding, so we had a few hours of swimming time before heading back to our own rooms to change. We saw the wedding reception set-up on our way to our room. Ang lapit lang, yey!

Btw, the only downside of our 2BR Suite is that SUPER LAYO nya from the amenities. Nakakatamad na to go down (or go back) if you're staying here, it's asa third floor pa!

And of course, the highlight of the whole trip and why we all made an effort to be there!





Everyone looked A+ that day! It's amazing that people were on time, so buti nalang we rushed with our preps and went straight to the venue which is right in front of the beach. The set-up is so dreamy, the weather cooperated too. I can go on and on but in short ang gusto ko lang sabihin is that everything's PERFECT!

My OOTD for the wedding day! Their color palette includes charcoal gray--thus this Simone's Closet dress. I wore the same accessories I used for the white party.

We only had a few minutes of waiting time on our seats before the ceremony started. I was feeling anxious the whole time, hindi ako mapakali and thought it was because I wanted a better seat so I can take better photos (sakit ko talaga documentation haha). Yun pala it's because I was just about to witness my high school best friend walk down the aisle!

When that moment happened, I was teary eyed! We may have drifted apart since college and work, but all our good memories during high school came rushing back on that split second when I saw her in a white dress--standing solo at the end of the aisle. After going through so much frustrations and heart aches, she looks so beautiful and glowing carrying all these experiences with her til this beautiful moment in her life with people she loves.

I was truly, genuinely happy for her!

Everyone transferred to a cocktails area for some sangria and picas, and then eventually moved to the actual reception area (the one nearest our room, hehe). The set-up is also pretty, I love the touch of lanterns stringed above our tables!



They have several "wedding souvenirs", but my favorite is the couple's business which is a Theo & Brom Tableya Round:



Justin Quirino as the party's host. My friends in the table have nothing but good words, hehe! It was a fun night, no cringe-y singles games (lol), and we also learned more about the couple! Oh, and I love their SDE, ang galing it's different from what I've seen so far!

Last Full Day!

With all the parties done and did, it was a more chill last full day in the resort! Kung may yoga lang ulit, we would have taken the class again! Haha!

Instead, we had breakfast and then went straight for the pool. I think dito na ako umitim ng tuluyan, hehehe!



Again, you get what you pay for, which is best in service! Every time we're in the pool they'll hand unli mango popsicles for free! Ang saya!





Since we haven't had "sand in our toes" for the whole trip, we decided to go down to the Alona Beach for lunch. Forgot where we dined in, but I ordered cheese pizza and I think a fruit shake.



We also had dessert in Bohol's popular Buzz Cafe. Ice cream break + the perfect view of the beach from the second floor. I ordered the Salted Honey ice cream flavor and it's so goood!

Time went by that before we knew it, it was almost time for sunset. 

We're back in the resort, and availed Saffron's buy-1-take-1 happy hour promo for the drinks. Ang tapang ng drinks nila! Anyway, from ice cream to margarita real quick, hehe! After a while, we were still in Saffron so we overlapped our drinks with our dinner.

This is the last activity I had for the day and for the whole trip, since I'll be flying earlier the next day to catch my Marinduque flight. The roomies booked for slots in Amorita's Sea Tree Spa, and true enough we're lucky since fully booked na sila if you just walked in that night.

We picked our services (massage) on-the-spot, and I am not sure why at the last minute I changed my massage from Hilot to Sikatuna or their deep massage. Mas mahal na nga siya at Php 1700, and it hurts like hell--I was close to tears during the massage haha! Deep massage pa more! 😭

I was already in Marinduque when my friends sent me a photo inside the plane showing my supposed seat, but empty! Hahaha, sweet din pala kayo guys hehehe!

Annnd that's it! I really enjoyed this trip! You'll see how very different we were from our early travels na sobrang tipid kaya siksikan in one room. Tipong patakas pa yung iba para maka mura, haha! Talk about life upgrades.



Now about those 16 girls I grew up with, who would have known! One just got married in Bohol in a very dreamy beach resort. Some have kids na, some are not yet married but enjoying the single life, and a few chose to live abroad. Career wise, I think everyone's doing well in their own fields (from doctors, lawyers, bankers, etc... and a blogger HAHA). I like that this phase in our lives is actually something that we might have dreamt and wrote down in our high school year book. It can also be 180° different, and that's okay!

Hopefully on the day when we are gray and wrinkly, having brunches instead of nightouts, this trip will be one of those classic travel stories that will constantly pop during our tea times. But before that happens, more travels, weddings, kids, and personal achievements in between--pls!

Watch more of our trip here:

My Top 10 Innisfree Favorites

April 22, 2019, 7:34 pm

≫ Next: SBS Inkigayo Super Concert in Gwangju! (My First Kpop Concert in Korea)

≪ Previous: My HS Best Friend's Wedding: Amorita Resort Bohol | Barkada Getaway

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I just want to share some of my current Innisfree favorites. I never thought I'd be a big fan since I am more of the Cosrx and Neogen girl when it comes to Korean skincare, but ever since I "met" these Innisfree products--I see myself repeat buying whenever I finish a tube or bottle or jar of them.

Here are my top 10 favorite Innisfree products:

1) Green Tea Mineral Mist - Alcohol free, compatible to my acne-prone skin, comes in two sizes (I bought a small one too for next trips in hot countries!).

2) Innisfree Green Tea Cleansing Water - Cool pump packaging, removes my everyday makeup, smells good, hydrating too!

3) Innisfree Super Volcanic Pore Clay Mask - Removes excess sebum, cleanses and shrinks pores, brightens the skin.

4) Innisfree Green Tea Sleeping Mask - Legit use this at night and wakeup with more moisturized skin!

5) Innisfree No Sebum Mineral Powder - Multi-use, can be used to set makeup, to retouch midday (keep face oil-free), and also as dry shampoo!

6) Innisfree Green Tea Seed Serum - My second bottle! Hydrates the skin, smells good, can be used day and night.

7) Innisfree Natural Oil Control Paper - eco friendly, removes excess face oil midday, light and compact (fits all my bags)

8) Innisfree Glow Tint Lip Balm No. 5 in Rose - New Innisfree discovery! Moisturizes the lips while leaving a nice red tint so I don't look pale during events! Only prob is packaging (tends to be messy).

9) Innisfree My To Go Cushion Puff - Blends my BB Cream well, made of biomaterial so it is gentle even for sensitive skin.

10) Innisfree Dreaming of Santa and Dreaming of Rudolph Perfumed Diffusers - Sadly seasonal, I really loved these Innisfree diffusers that they released last Holiday 2018! They smell so festive, added to the Christmas vibe in our home!! Will definitely restock if they bring more of this in the store. 

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A post shared by Ana Gonzales | Travel Blogger (@anagon) on Dec 18, 2018 at 12:39am PST

Innisfree recently opened their second store in the Philippines last April 5 at the SM Megamall Bldg A (in front of Forever 21). They had an interesting glass skincare talk with Ms. Jet Guison, delicious canapé, and a private shopping (and bonding!) session with bloggers and vloggers.

Read my Innisfree Mall Of Asia blog post here.

Two things I love from this Innisfree store: they have lots of testers (even for their facial wash!), and their staff are all very friendly and knowledgeable.

May I know what Innisfree products you love and recommend? :) 

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SBS Inkigayo Super Concert in Gwangju! (My First Kpop Concert in Korea)

May 4, 2019, 2:28 am

≫ Next: Slept In Incheon Airport's Jjimjilbang + The Untold Stories of Travel

≪ Previous: My Top 10 Innisfree Favorites

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Last April 28, my 7th day in Korea, I woke up with a different beat. I was a bit more energetic, excited, and I knew this was going to be one of the highlights of this "Chasing Spring" Korea 2019 trip!

I went out of our room to our guesthouse owner cooking breakfast for us: Kimchi Pancakes! Ahhh the smell of hot food in the morning! I was the first one on the table, and had a fresh batch of what they call the kimchijeon, it tastes so so good! I think it's the best out there!

I went out early and it was raining. I had to drop by a convenience store just to get a clear plastic umbrella at around Php 220. Kahit nag kukuripot ako, it turned out to be a good decision as I was able to maximize it when I lined up outdoors for the ticket exchange and it was raining really hard.

Super gloomy in the morning, but the booths were all ready for the huge crowd!

Compared to the other cities I went to earlier on, I amazed myself with my mastery of Gwangju's bus system. It was easier, and I had a smooth bus ride to the venue without even asking strangers or the bus driver for directions (and just used my online maps and trusty TEP Wireless).

I was in Gwangju World Cup Stadium at around 9am, and the gates were already open for ticket claiming and activity booths. Merchants were setting up outside in preparation for a great sales day. They were selling caps, binoculars, stickers, shirts, light sticks, and all sorts of Kpop unofficial merch carrying the names and faces of those performing that night.

Kpop merch by the entrance of the stadium:

The Lineup: 

BTS
MOMOLAND
IZ*ONE
N.Flying
NATURE
Cherry Bullet
Hong JinYoung
TXT
THE BOYZ
TWICE

It was still raining while I was in line for my ticket, and although patience was tested, 99% of me was just so excited to get this over with and secure my seat that night. I was with other international fans from all over the world--mostly ARMYs wearing their headbands or Bangtan shirts with pride. I am in the right place!

When I got my wristband, I went out for lunch and do a little bit of sightseeing since it was still early to stay in the venue (it was 11am, the stadium itself will be opened at around 4pm).



They also gave us a passport booklet. I did not open it because I think I was too excited for the concert and getting some merch! Turns out, if I had all the stamps in the activity booths at the venue, they'll give authentic BT21 merch as prizes! Huhu!

Ahhh finally! It was already sunny when I got back at the venue at around 3:30 pm. I went around a little more to look for coffee, buy snacks, and just take pictures. I was doing all these while feeling a nice vibe that only a concert day can give.

The food stalls inside the gates were already filled with concert goers waiting for the stadium the open:








My iced americano and a free lollipop from the kind ahjussi vendor:


When it was finally time to enter, I made sure to walk first at the very center of the upper sections to see the view of the venue from this angle. Sobrang ganda!

I was seated in D-4, right next to other South East Asians from different media outlet, and Filipinos who got their tickets from tours. Thank you new chingus for making this experience extra memorable!

Can't help it! Final photo op with the stage before the concert begins!

And finally, the concert starts with a countdown and fireworks! By this time, everyone's so hyped to see their favorite Korean stars perform live!

Sharing pictures of the artists + their setlist for the night. Each of the bands (except BTS) also performed 1 dance challenge, super cute nila and very game!

Cherry Bullet
Q&A

NATURE

Dream About U

The Boyz
Bloom Bloom

IZ*ONE
Violeta
Up

TXT
Cat & Dog
Crown

N. Flying
Spring Memories (I just discovered this band and song here, and love ko sila!)
Rooftop

MOMOLAND

 I'm So Hot
Bboom Bboom

Hong Jin Young

Love Battery

TWICE
Fancy
Yes Or Yes
Dance The Night Away

Ang go-gorgeous nila!

See you soon in Manila, Twice!!!

BTS
Boy With Luv
DNA
Make It Right
IDOL



When BTS came up the stage, you'll notice the shift of energy. Everyone's on FIRE! Would have wanted to stand up and I am not even a dance-y type of person, but bawal! Their spirit is so contagious! I just want to jump jump jump!

If you ask me for my bias, definitely it's V or Taehyung just because I was introduced to BTS because of him! I've first known Taehyung as an actor in Hwarang, since I am originally a Kdrama girl since 2016.

No regrets stanning this person, though, I love his soulful voice, his cute antics whenever I watch random BTS videos on Youtube, and the fact that he also loves classic artists like Van Gogh! He is also very insightful, his messages during concerts to the ARMYs are all heartfelt and raw.

But honestly guys, after watching more videos--from the crazy funny ones to the serious ones--I can't help but love the whole 7 of them! Bias Wrecker? Sila na lahat! Haha! I can go on and on, haha, but I just feel lucky to be there on their last concert before winning the Billboard Music Award for Top Duo/Group!!! 💜 

Alam nyo kung magkaka anak ako right now lol, I'll be the happiest if they stan BTS! Sobrang good influence and inspiring!!

The concert ended with a bang will be an understatement. Everyone was hoping for an encore, we even ran to the stage in the hopes of one more BTS song, or maybe seeing all the artists for a final song??? Sobrang epic siguro nun! 

Although that encore did not happen, I went home on a post-concert high! Sobrang bitin but happy! I really wish to catch a solo BTS concert before the year ends, and I'll make sure I'm standing in front when that happens!

The daily paper in Gwangju the next day featured the SBS Super Concert on the front page, baby!

And since pictures will never do any justice to the experience, sharing clips I (attempted) to record during the concert day! I also posted these on my IG Story Highlights and IGTV @anagon. :)

That's it for this blog post! I hope that in my own little way I was able to take you to the concert and shared the happiness with you. Enjoy the videos!

Special thanks to Korea Tourism Organization Manila for having me!

Slept In Incheon Airport's Jjimjilbang + The Untold Stories of Travel

May 11, 2019, 1:14 am

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As much as I snap, record, and post almost every step taken in all my travels, there are still some stories that didn't find its way to social media.

The wrong climbs and getting lost in an empty park while it was raining non-stop and I only had a jacket and cap on. Or the budgeting woes, the no-dinner days, and non-stop conversion from Won to Pesos before making a purchase. Or the many times I find myself Google translating "vegetarian" to Hangul, but only ending up in a convenience store (again) where there's a sure egg-mayo sandwich or ramyeun that can pass up for a meal of the day--only to warm the tummy in a convenient way.



If there are Instagram worthy spots in every travel destinations, there are also the non-IG Worthy moments that (sometimes) only remain in my memory. But maybe that's why I became a blogger. This space is where I can tell my untold stories from this trip that recently came to mind now that I am in the comforts of my home. Some were merely not documented because I was "busy" to get by at that time, while others I just tried to forget out of embarrassment. Why just now? I thought that maybe telling these experiences will be a lesson to even just one reader.

I arrived in Korea for this late spring trip via a red eye flight. I was expecting this (since obviously I was the one who booked my tickets) but did not expect a few things.

First, my luggage broke and it hasn't been a day yet (I have 9 days to go!)! It was nothing to me, and was able to fix the zipper in the airport before I walked again to look for the Incheon Jjimjilbang where I planned to stay for the night.



Which leads us to another unexpected detail: The airport jjimjilbang "Spa On Air" was full that night!

I already tried Spa On Air before while waiting for a night flight back to Manila, but just to take a shower and try their hot tubs. It was my first time to actually sleep there and didn't realize that it gets full booked. Some of those ahead of me gave up and just walked away from the line. I have nowhere else to go, and thought that going around with a luggage will even be more tiring compared to just waiting, and so I just stayed there. I think it was almost 1am when a female spot freed up!

Spa On Air is Incheon International Airport's jjimjilbang, or Korean public bath house, but with a more modern take. It is located at the East of Public Area 1BF, Terminal 1. There are elevators in the area of the arrivals, but just ask the information for Spa On Air to be sure.

What I like about this sleepover experience is that the price is already inclusive of: unli shower time and public bath tub use. Men and women shower rooms are separate, but take note that if like me you came from a country where hindi full naked ang mga spa you might feel awkward at first. Iniisip ko nalang na mag isa lang naman ako, hindi nila ako kilala, and usually wala rin silang pake.

Here's the price list. You can just take a shower, or you can also book the shower+sauna combo. Sauna is the term for the place where you can sleep. I paid for the 12 hours so I can still have my breakfast the next day, and concoct a game plan for my Jeonju trip without pressures of checking out early. I also planned to rest a bit more.



So for 22,000 KRW (around Php 1000) I already have access to the shower and sauna for 12 hours. They kept my luggage securely, and I also have a personal locker for my "immediate" things like clothes for the next day, makeup, toiletries, etc. You can ask for your luggage naman sa receptionist if you forgot something. They are very accommodating!

My small locker space and tap bracelet that opens this locker and my shoe locker:

We also get a brown t-shirt and shorts uniform + 2 small towels:


Right next to the locker area is the vanity area, a toilet, and the door to the shower room where the hot tubs are also located. No photos allowed here, but took some when there's no one around. Aside from your clothes and towels, they also provide shampoo and body wash in the shower area, a water dispenser where you can get water anytime, and skincare, hairdryer, comb, earbuds and cotton pads, and hair products in the sink and vanity area.

Aside from having almost everything that I need, I like that Spa On Air is very clean and well-maintained!

Make sure to bring your own toothbrush, toothpaste, and facial wash. They also have a vendo machine for some of these essentials in case you don't have them.

I made sure to avail all the free stuff, especially these bottles of Korean skincare!

And finally, here's how the Spa On Air sauna (or sleeping area) looks like. The first time I went in, it was so full ang awkward tumabi kani-kanino lang. They only spread out these thin cushions (size of a yoga mat) and blocks for your "bed and pillow". You'll see some guests stacking 3 cushions and hug 2 blocks with no care--so una-unahan lang sya talaga. It was so hard to find a space, but managed to secure one near the door when an old lady got up.

Btw, you will get a card when you check-in so you can go to this area:

Mahirap rin mag sleep coz you can still hear noises from snores, and from people outside--chatting in the lobby area, the hairdryer buzzing non-stop, locker doors slamming. Rinig na rinig ko silang lahat haha.

Some tips! Bring your own small pillow and blanket so you'll feel a little comfortable and covered. Take note, the room is MIXED and people just come and go, so there are times when I was next to a couple, then to a lola, and then one time I woke up and I was next to a boy! Nkklk. 

Ilang beses ako nagigising, so please expect this na. You won't get a nice deep sleep here. Bring eye shield and earbuds if you must! I also woke up with aching right wrist and I think it's because nadaganan ko yung hand ko sa matigas na floor while sleeping, haha.

Overall, it was a difficult but interesting experience! It's also a good and affordable option if you have red eye flights. I've always had "sleeping in jjimjilbang" in my Korea bucket list after seeing them in Korean dramas--so at least I got this out of the way already. To think this is not hardcore yet, sosyal pa tong lagay na ito coz nasa airport! 😆

Aside from the broken luggage and sleeping on a sauna, here are some untold stories from this trip.


Crying In A Bus

If my Instagram stories and photos show that this trip was all fun and carefree, then let me tell you how I cried in public on a bus on my way to the train station for Yeosu. Akala mo nakaka Kdrama scene pero sa totoo lang nakakahiya! Aside from getting lost trying to figure out the right bus stop and the right bus, I made sure to set aside my money on my pocket so I won't get in the way for the other passengers the moment I climb in the bus with my luggage and backpack, while confirming to the driver if it's the right bus. I was juggling so many things in my head and in real life!

I dropped my money in the clear box in front of the driver--like how they do it in Seoul--and I made sure I drop a big amount just so hindi na ako magtatanong magkano and if kulang pa. That's 10,000 KRW. The driver suddenly looked at me frustrated, and with the little Korean I know I caught him saying the word "otoke" (What will I do!?) while tapping his pockets showing that he has no change for me. I moved aside because I was already on the way of the other passengers, the bus was full so I was just holding on a bar while making sure my luggage won't slide.

Then suddenly (and I am usually tough) I caught myself wiping tears from my eyes! Halong hiya at pagod nadin siguro (the next day I got my period so let's pls blame hormones on this drama haha). The bus driver asked for my bank account, and realized it wasn't Korean bank so he made another scene. Later on before my stop he called me back in front (I was going back and forth with my luggage!) as he released coins on a machine in front of him. Sa totoo lang kaya naman pala nya magsukli bat may eksena pa!! Huhu!! 

#MeToo

Another bus incident, but this time in Gwangju on my way for my hostel check-in, I was again confronted by a full bus. This time I was confident I am in the right one, and of course made sure I paid the exact amount this time, and I was standing steady even with my luggage and backpack. Then I realized something odd.

I know masikip yung bus so I thought it might just be a bag or something, but I suddenly turned around to see what has been resting on my butt for a few good minutes and saw an ahjussi's hand holding on a phone but with his fingers extending in a scooped position. I felt sick in the guts.

I do not know how to react or feel at that time, but kahit na-disorient ako I made sure to move away and face side view from the old man. I made sure I can see what he's doing. Ang lapit niya masyado, and parang ang baho nya (amoy alak). I also noticed that he shifted his position and tried to go near me again and alam nyo yung feeling na nag guguni lang ba ako non o dapat ba hindi ako magalit coz hindi naman confirmed na binastos ako ng mama o baka "feeling" lang ako, but I cannot help but get furious at that time so scowled at him before he goes near me again, and whispered "putang ina" which caught the attention of a girl next to us so she also moved away from the ahjussi. He then walked to the far end of the bus. By the way, he's the only old man in this bus as the route to my hostel turned out to be mostly high school and university stops.

Nakaka frustrate pala yung feeling ng solo female traveler ka, and you'll encounter something like this noh. Suddenly from feeling confident and independent, I felt that the world is unsafe for women like me to explore it alone! For a few rides after that incident I find myself taking the cab nalang kahit on a budget ako because natakot talaga ako. Ayaw ko na sana ikwento to but I realized how important this is as I keep on getting messages from readers who are also traveling solo now or about to venture on solo travels because of my posts--Always stay alert! It can happen anywhere, even in "safe countries". Even if unsure ka, show that it's not okay and you're uncomfortable by making a fuss! Look for fellow women or couples and stay close to them or (if needed) seek help from them.

Sharing reading materials I am going through now on #MeToo experiences while commuting.

"There are so many small moments, and a lot of women feel that their story isn’t valid, or valid enough,” she said. “And they just brush it off and move on with their day. But it is valid, and it’s important."
(source: the washington post)



Again, I am sharing these incidents not to scare you, but more of for awareness. Traveling is not all fine and dandy like the Instagram influencer's well-curated feed. You will encounter troubles along the way--minor or major--it's best to be ready mentally, emotionally, and physically for them. I think a more important lesson for me here is to not let these hinder you from your travel dreams.

You are brave, you will endure, you will enjoy! And of course, you will learn.


To be continued!

Maria Health: Healthcare Plans Made Easy For Freelancers

May 12, 2019, 10:55 pm

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I've been working freelance all my life, and as much as I love being my own boss, working at my own pace, and developing more of my creativity--there are downsides that come in being self-employed. 

I learned a lot over the years the different adulting essentials that I do without. First is having my business registered and pay my taxes (check!). Second is having insurance investments (check!). I am now dealing with another concern that I realized is super important especially on cases when I needed to go for a check-up and have to pay full price. I am now looking into getting healthcare plans that my employed sisters automatically receive from their job!

Then I discovered Maria Health! 

What Is Maria Health?

Maria Health is an online one-stop-shop health platform that provides simple and easy to access healthcare to every Filipino.

Did you know that an estimate of only 5% of the Philippines’s 100 million population are medically insured because of lack of access to providers? 

Maria Health is set to solve this problem by inviting some of the country’s top providers such as Maxicare, PhilCare, and AsianLife to pool their healthcare plans ONLINE where they can reach everyone!

Aside from freelancers, Maria Health market also includes overseas workers, business owners, health enthusiasts, and mothers. 

MediCard RxER delivered just in time for Mother's Day! It's the perfect gift for mommy who is a housewife for more than a decade now. Of course, it's the best gift also to myself as a freelancer.

  

Here's how Maria Health website looks like! You can choose the health plan that will fit your needs, and compare coverage and prices from different providers. All in one online shop!

Maria Health has revolutionized the healthcare shopping experience by offering you the ability to pull plans beside each other and compare which fit your needs and budget best.

For comprehensive plans, you can instantly get a free unbiased proposal from experts by simply answering a few questions. The proposal contains the best possible options you can enroll yourself, your family, or your business to.

for prepaid plans, you can choose from Maria Health’s wide range of packages and bundles covering emergency care, diagnostic exams, and doctor consultations to name a few.

Best part is, they have a lot of frequently asked questions section, and a customer care hotline (email, cellphone, and chat options) all over their website. They make healthcare plans simple and understandable and accessible. Sa totoo lang, I've never been this less intimidated when it comes to healthcare adulting essentials!

Simply put, you can find and shop for a plan that fits your health needs in just a few clicks.    

Visit https://mariahealth.ph, and follow them on Instagram @MariaHealthPh. 

New & Affordable Korean Beauty Products Worth Trying! (As low as Php 20!)

May 14, 2019, 1:18 am

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I'm always on the lookout for new beauty products to try in the market ever since I've become a fan of Korean Beauty. I think that's the fun in Kbeauty, they always have something new for us to try kaya hindi nakakasawa and it doesn't feel nakakatamad to do your skincare nightly. Plus, they will hardly break your bank, and their packaging is always too cute to resist! 

My go-to site is Althea Korea since 2016. They offer a variety of brands and products for both skincare and makeup. I am also impressed that they now have their own line! 

I am sharing here 3 of these new products from Althea A'Bloom. I've tried them for the past three weeks, and--it might be early to tell--but with its price points I can easily say that they are worth trying!

A’bloom BHA Blackhead Blaster (Php 200)

A’bloom BHA Blackhead Blaster is an easy and quick triple treatment for blackheads, whiteheads and dead skin for daily care.

I've only tried this once, and my personal opinion is that the effect is not instant. You won't see blackheads and whiteheads magically disappear when you rinse the product from your face, but skin does feel smoother after use.

What I like about A’bloom BHA Blackhead Blaster is that it is made of natural ingredients like tea tree, natural BHA, apricot seed powder, and charcoal. It smells good, and very easy to apply on the face because of its handy and sleek packaging. 

To Use:

1) Dampen the skin, and apply the stick directly on targeted areas and massage in circular motions for 30 seconds.

2) Massage face in circular motion.

3) Rinse of with water.

A’bloom Refreshing Skin Mask Pack (Php 20)

I am a sheet mask person, and I've tried different brands and variants. I think the A’bloom Refreshing Skin Mask Pack is the most affordable yet in the Korean market, and the best part is they work well on my skin! 

I brought the A’bloom Refreshing Skin Mask Pack to my recent Korea trip, and it was spring at that time so my face tends to dry. These masks helped moisturize my skin effortlessly every night.

One factor that I won't recommend a sheet mask is when it breaks out my skin automatically the next day. That's how sensitive and acne prone my skin is, alam ko agad if I won't continue using a product. 

The case is different with A’bloom Refreshing Skin Mask Pack. It is gentle on my face, packaging and branding are both A+++, and a sheet is only Php 20 you won't feel guilting using this everyday!

Btw, A’bloom sheet masks are fruit masks pack with strong antioxidant power of fruits and soothing energy of natural plants to care for each skin concern such as hydration, nutrition, whitening and blemishes. The sheet masks are also made out of 100% natural eco-friendly fabric to effectively deliver the efficacy of the rich fruits essence and the essences are formulated with reduced viscosity that are available in creams.

Sheet Mask Tip: Don't throw away your mask right away after using it on your face! Don't forget to apply it also on your neck, it is said to be the first to wrinkle!

A’bloom Perfect Skin Expression With Meringue Puffs

Last but not the least are these beauty tools: Althea A'bloom's makeup sponge! They come in cute pastel tones, and big and small sizes.

If you ask me, I am more of a sponge person than brushes. I use them for all my morning skincare application prior makeup, just so I won't be using my fingers to touch my face (na baka madumi haha and OC!). 

The Giant Meringue Puff (Php 100) is available per piece, and can be used to apply makeup quickly and easily. I like that it is soft to the skin, and has minimal "sponge pores" so it doesn't absorb and waste a lot of your foundation or BB Cream.

Meanwhile, the Baby Meringue Puff (Php 140) is sold by 3s in one box. These smaller, multi-angle puffs that blend easily for perfect detailed application. I imagine using them for concealer application or to dab my cheek tints. Cleaner and more precise than using my fingers!

 Have you tried any new Kbeauty finds? Share some of your favorites! 

Visit https://ph.althea.kr/ to check out these products.

Healthy Travels: Mangosteen Supplements For The On The Go

May 15, 2019, 8:54 pm

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The past weeks I've been getting health related projects for my blog. And although my main niche is travel, I said yes to these because health is everything in my line of work. Without good health, how can we enjoy our adventures?

Aside from making sure I secure a healthcare plan, I also have a set of supplements that I now take regularly. I used to only take Vitamin C, but after talking to several travel writers that I've been with on road trip assignments, I learned that ascorbic acid is not enough. I now have Vitamin B on my list, and MANGOSTEEN supplements as the latest addition.

Healthmax Care Mangosteen Plus 8 Berries Food Supplement's main ingredient is used for a lot of known diseases, including diarrhea, urinary tract infections (UTIs), tuberculosis, menstrual disorders, and yes--even cancer! There's a whole lot more when you read up on this fruit on the internet, an article even said that mangosteen helps improve one's mental health! I know that I will need this especially in my age, my dietary preference (vegetarian), and also because of my lifestyle.

Here are some Mangosteen Health Benefits:

• Anti-Oxidant

• Anti-Cancer 

• Anti-Tumor 

• Anti-Inflammatory 

• Anti-Diarrhea 

• Improves immune system

But aside from mangosteen, the Healthmax Care Mangosteen Plus 8 Berries also contains super fruits, making it more effective, powerful, and enabling you to achieve faster results.

The 8 Berries in Healthmax Care Mangosteen Plus 8 Berries Food Supplement:

AcaiBerry

• good source of energy

• improves digestion 

• helps maintain normal cholesterol level

Bilberry 

• anti-cancer 

• helps improve vision 

• helps lower blood sugar level 

• support cardiovascular health

Raspberry 

• promotes good eyesight 

• anti-diabetic effect

Cranberry

• promotes healthy heart 

• improves circulatory system 

• immune booster 

• helps prevent UTI

 Acerola 

• enhances the immune system 

• anti-diabetic effect 

• anti-inflammatory effect 

• anti-oxidant properties

Grapeseed 

• anti-cancer 

• helps heal wounds 

• good for osteoporosis 

• helps lower cholesterol 

• high blood pressure

• Wolfberry (Goji) 

• supports immune system

• anti-inflammatory properties 

Hawthorn

• keeps the heart healthy 

• good for the circulatory system

To assure the public that all its products are safe and compliant, Healthmax Care is registered under the Philippine Securities and Exchange Commission, and has a permit to operate from the Philippine Food and Drugs Administration (FDA).

I am currently taking this every morning after my first meal. It is recommended to take this twice a day (at night as well) but haven't figured out how I can juggle the supplements I've recently added in my routine (Vitamin C, Vitamin B, Gluta)--any tips?

As for how I feel after a week of taking Healthmax Care Mangosteen Plus 8 Berries Food Supplement, I'd like to think that it is keeping me healthy and illness free even though this week in one of the busiest! I am juggling my online work, organizing for Bloggers United this June (social media + meetings), my online shop, and an upcoming travel. I sleep late (huhu) but still feel strong and ready to work the next day!

Healthmax Care Mangosteen Plus Berries (Php 2500 / Box of 100) is available in Mercury Drug Stores Nationwide, and online:

WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | LAZADA | SHOPEE 

ALL ABOUT JEONJU: How To Go, Things To Do, Where To Stay, Etc.

May 17, 2019, 2:27 am

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Travel Dates: April 24-25, 2019

This trip started early this year when I decided to celebrate my blog's 10th anniversary in Korea. As per usual, I wanted to explore another city outside of Seoul.

I remember posting a survey on Instagram, and the cities that were suggested include Gwangju, Jeongno, Pyeongchang, and of course, Jeonju. I searched these name over the internet, and what little information I got when I planned for my Daegu or Jeju trip--let's say around 1/4 lang ang lumabas for these cities!

In short, kung first choice ang Seoul, and 2nd to 3rd choices ang Daegu, Busan, and Jeju, asa pang 5th na halos ang Jeonju. I think this lack of information made me even more ecstatic to plan and push for this new solo travel adventure in Korea! 

To start off this blog post on my first city for this trip, here are some:

JEONJU TRIVIAS

1) Jeonju is the capital of North Jeolla Province.

Try and search for a map of South Korea, you'll see na medyo nasa pa south na sya. My original plan for this trip was to catch cherry blossoms even when it's off season na. I had to suck it in and let go of this when I realized that my destination is southern-most na halos ng Korea, meaning mas mainit na compared to Seoul, Pyeongchang, or Sokcho areas (thus lagas na din ang cherry blossom trees).

2) The word Jeonju's literal meaning is Perfect Region. They got this name for being "blessed" in terms of geographical location-- close proximity to the sea, vast plains.

From readings, I learned that lots of South Korea's produce and crops are from this region.

3) Aside from being a rich land, Jeonju also maintained their Korean traditions and culture. You'll find everything traditional Korean in this city, including hanoks (traditional Korean houses) to hanji (traditional Korean paper), to hansik (traditional Korean cuisine).

4) Jeonju was named a UNESCO City of Gastronomy in 2012! Did you know that the famous Korean dish BIBIMBAP came from Jeonju?!

5) Some famous personalitites from Jeonju: Kim Tae-yeon of Girls Generation, Kim Sung-kyu of Infinite, Ahn Hye-jin formerly from Mamamoo, and actor Yoon Kyun-sang (second lead in Park Shin Hye's Doctors)

HOW TO GO TO JEONJU

We always learn from our mistakes, and although it wasn't major, one of my travel boo boos from past trips is that I still go to the city center before heading for my main destination.

Example! During my Jeju-Busan winter last 2018, I spared 2 nights pa in Seoul. I planned on going back din naman sa Seoul for my flight back to Manila, so might as well just go straight to my main agenda. Ang hirap rin ng marami masyadong transfers!

For this trip, I learned that there's a direct bus from Incheon International Airport going to Jeonju. I decided to just stay for the night in the airport, and then take this bus the next day.

After having breakfast at the airport (and feeling like a boss in my house clothes hahaha), I went back to the airport jjimjilbang to check out and get my stuff.

VIA BUS FROM INCHEON AIRPORT

I went to the airport concierge to inquire about the bus to Jeonju, and the lady at the desk just gave me the exit number. I went there and saw lots of destination signages--it's impossible to get lost if you just READ.

I easily spotted Jeonju in 12B, and went to the pillar and saw more signages and buses. I went to the nearest ticket booth and true enough they sell the bus tickets for Jeonju! Bought my ticket on-the-spot, sobrang dali and convenient!

They'll give you a timed ticket so make sure madali ka makakapunta sa platform mo on time. Do not lose your bus ticket! Check and follow everything: Departure time, Platform, and Seat Number. I paid 33,000 KRW (around Php 1500), and the ride took around four hours long, and included one food and toilet break. Take a picture of your bus plate number during the stopover.

VIA BUS FROM SEOUL

If you're coming from Seoul, there are buses for around 30,000 KRW from Seoul's Express Bus Terminal. Ride is about 2 hours and 30 minutes.

VIA KTX FROM SEOUL

You can also take the express train to Iksan or all the way to Jeonju Train Station. This is the fastest option if you're coming from Seoul, but also a bit more expensive at KRW 42,800 for the first class bus (around Php 1900).

WHERE I STAYED IN JEONJU

Still on a budget trip, I looked for the best location with cheap rates for Jeonju via Agoda. I usually go for hostels that are either 1) Near the shopping and food center mala Myeongdong or 2) Very near a train station.

I ended up in Blueboat Hostel Jeonju.



Will I recommend it, definitely!

1) It is walking distance to the main attractions of Jeonju, including the Jeonju Hanok Village and the Jeondong Catholic Church. Meanwhile, Jeonju's famous choco pie bakery PNB is just across the hostel!

2) I like the privacy of dormitories that look like this:

Your very own box-type cubicle with blinds, essential when you want privacy especially when you sleep. There are two electrical outlets per bed, a personal lamp, and a place to hang your clothes.

Ang kalat ko, haha! I stock my packing cubes inside my cubicle para hindi na din ako mag hahalungkat ng maleta every morning. I got the top bunk so medyo hassle din when I need something and have to go down pa. I have here my valuables (camera, phone, etc), chargers, toiletries, makeup kit, skincare kit, and all my clothes for the next day.

The space in the room is to small to fix or get something from your luggage, so a tip is to go out at the hallway and dun mo na gawin bilang may chairs naman na dun and mas hindi nakaka hiya mag ingay. 

Btw, they also provide you with a small net bag (I used this to bring my clothes when I take a bath), and a rubber slippers. All shoes are left in another shoe locker before entering the hostel.

3) Common areas such as the toilet and bath (separate ang girls sa boys) and the dining and kitchen area are all very clean and well-maintained. 

Toilet and shower cubicles are separate, and enough for us checked-in at that time. Never ko need mag antay for my turn. I also like that they provide everything I needed: Shampoo and body wash, a small towel, toothpaste, and hairdryer. Just make sure to bring your own toothbrush, a towel if naliliitan ka sa face towel size lang, and your skincare stuff.

They are strict with no eating inside the rooms policy, which is okay. The common room where the receptionist is also located is very inviting.

Ang saya na may drinking water narin pala dito: 

4) As for security, everything's de-tap card from the time you enter the main area for the rooms, and then for the door to your room. They also provide lockers big enough for my medium maleta (has separate key attached the the tap card's lanyard).

Sobrang okay lahat, A+ sya for my standards of a guesthouse. Plus points nalang din that I only spent around Php 1500 for two nights, inclusive already of other taxes and charges.

HOW TO GO AROUND JEONJU

Almost like Jeju, main mode of transportation in Jeonju are buses and cabs. I don't think they have local trains around the city, but if you booked in the right location, most prob you just have to prepare yourself for a lot of walks as most attractions are just near each other. The only time I took a taxi was going to my hostel, and when I went to

Except for a day pass in some of the Jeonju Hanok Village museums and attractions, I haven't discovered a Jeonju tour in the likes of Trazy or Klook. 

THINGS TO DO IN JEONJU

I stayed in this city for 1.5 days. Sunsets were late (past 7pm) so I was able to maximize a day till night time. Kalaban ko lang that time was pagod! Tita na talaga ako, hehehe.

DAY 1

After checking in BlueBoat Hostel Jeonju, I just crossed the street to have coffee and try Jeonju's famous PNB choco pies (cream instead of mallows).

 

Made sure to get more on my last day to bring home to my fam:

Energized from the sweets and the coffee, I walked to the area of Jeonju Hanok Village. I decided that Day 1 will be just chill for me since I just came from a long bus ride and have 1 full day pa naman the next day.



Jeondong Cathedral

Built in honor of Roman Catholic martyrs of the Joseon Dynasty on the very same spot the martyrs lost their lives.



Saw my first blooms for this trip in the church's compound:




Continued walking till I reached the Gyeonggijeon Shrine. This is the famous area for most Jeonju travellers, featuring a vast garden, structures and museums, and the portrait of the founder of the Joseon Dynasty King Tae-jo.

Meanwhile, this is also a main location for my first ever Kdrama comeback in 2016 Moonlight Drawn By Clouds! ❤

I also had time to walk around Jeonju Hanok Village before calling it a day.

Costume rentals (hanbok and 1920s style) are in every corner:

Passed by a hanok accommodation:

Some Jeonju Hanok Village tips:

1) Stay in a traditional hanok (didn't try this na coz I am alone).
2) Wear a hanbok or  and take pictures around the old city.
3) Get the pass for Jeonju Hanok Village via Klook (inclusive of museum fees, discounts), and avail these places:

Luielle Hat Culture Center
JeonBuk’ 100 Tourist Souvenirs
Memory Museum
Yeomyung Camera Museum
Jeonju Art Museum
Omokdae (hike) for a bird's eye view of the hanok village

Lastly, made sure my first dinner in the city is BIBIMBAP! I just searched for recommended bibimbap restos in Jeonju, and walked. The first and constantly appears in Google search is named Family House (Jeonju Bibimbap). Just order one out of the 2 items in their menu, and receive a full tray of banchan (side dishes) along with your rice meal.

DAY 2

I woke up early for my only full day in Jeonju. I was the first one in the bath area, when the guest house keeper entered and we had a little small talk on my plans for the day (while I was doing my makeup, and she just finished brushing her teeth hehehe).

I showed her the notes on my phone, and then she suggested another park that she says is not known to many tourists, and the trees are currently "in full bloom". It's about 20 minutes away from our guesthouse by foot. Since I've done a lot on my to-do list the day before, I went for this instead. Name of the place is Wansan Park, and searchable via Google Maps.

Passed by yeppo bridges, schools, and walkways during my walk to Wansan Park:

It was a long way up, but I don't mind with all the street art:

Wansan Park is really beautiful, I have no words! I was overwhelmed by the never ending floral pathways. Couples were dressed to the nines, ready to take the perfect spring photos. I saw families and friends, solo travellers, ahjussi and ahjumma working out. Everyone's in a good mood and nakaka hawa sya! This is definitely a highlight of my Jeonju trip.

Back in Jeonju Hanok Village, the Jaman Mural Village is just walking distance malayo lang talaga yung tawiran! By that time, it was already raining nonstop. Thankful nadin ako that it only started to pour after my 2 hours in the park.

Jaman Mural Village has the same concept as Busan's Gamcheon Culture Village. It's a former slum area, revive by art. Now it is a Jeonju tourist attraction where people go to take pictures with the wall art. I love that most of the paintings are Studio Ghibli characters! They also have shops and cafes in the area, pero parang sarado when I went there.

It was already a downpour by the time I spotted Jeonjuhyanggyo Confucian School. I got lost here and there, had a short coffee detour in a random cafe because I needed to pee (hehe), before I had the courage to go around again even with the heavy rain.

Buti nalang weird ako that I actually liked the mood that the rain lent to these beautiful backdrops. The Jeonjuhyanggyo Confucian School is a national education center during the Joseon period, and Ra-on's house in Love in the Moonlight!

Green tea break in Jeonmang Cafe when the rain got so bad, I was drenching by this time. I had a nice hot drink with an instant view of the hanok village! ❤

The only time I had to take a cab was for my final stop for this trip, which is in Deokjin Park. I went here for the lotus flowers blooming in its natural pond, which dates back to the Goryeo Dynasty! Sadly, I didn't realize that lotus flowers also has a blooming season like cherry blossom! 😓 Spent a cab going to an empty park and dry pond! 😄

Another meal I had in Jeonju, aside from Bibimbap, is their Jeonju-style Bean Sprout and Rice Soup, or the kongnamulkukbap. The hot soup mixed with rice was just perfect for the weather! ❤ Name of the place is Jeonju Kongnamul Gukbap Restaurant.

I liked the bibimbap from the other day, but this one is my favorite for this trip! I love that the side dish variety may be limited--but all the musts were there: an egg, nori strips, and some kimchi. Sarap!

SAMPLE ITINERARY FOR 2D1N IN JEONJU

DAY 1:

Arrive in the afternoon
Coffee and Choco Pie in PNB Bakery
Jeondong Cathedral
Gyeonggijeon Shrine
Jeonju Hanok Village (Wear a Hanbok)
Dinner in Family House (Jeonju Bibimbap)

DAY 2:
Wansan Park
Jaman Mural Village
Jeonjuhyanggyo Confucian School
Jeonmang Cafe
Deokjin Park
Dinner in Jeonju Kongnamul Gukbap Restaurant

ITINERARY FOR A DAY TRIP IN JEONJU:

Arrival via KTX
Coffee and Choco Pie in PNB Bakery
Jeondong Cathedral
Gyeonggijeon Shrine
Lunch - Family House (Jeonju Bibimbap) or Jeonju Kongnamul Gukbap Restaurant
Jeonju Hanok Village (Wear a Hanbok)
Jaman Mural Village
Go back to KTX


FINAL INSIGHTS

Jeonju, like any other cities outside of Seoul, is a breath of fresh air. Less tourists, and more of the real experience.

I like that everything is almost in close proximity, you can just spend the whole day walking around the hanok village, and enjoy legit Korean culture at its best. No need for anyone's tips, actually, unless it's from your guesthouse keeper! Wherever your heart and feet tell you to go, it will definitely be an experience, a memory you can call your own. An unknown coffee shop with a barista with the nicest smile, or beautiful roads and detours you have to pass through to get to a far destination.

If I were to go back, maybe I'll follow what the internet recommended. A stay in a hanok and renting a hanbok will add to the whole "old Korea" experience. But overall, I already love the varied mix that Jeonju lent me on that quick trip: from history and culture, Kdrama locations, a touch of spring, modern art, and good home cooked meals. I left the city satisfied.

WATCH MY JEONJU INSTAGRAM STORIES:

READ MORE:

ALL ABOUT JEJU

ALL ABOUT BUSAN

ALL ABOUT DAEGU

BlackPink Announces Manila Fan Meet! | What Will You Buy In Shopee To Get That Black Ticket?

May 19, 2019, 6:58 am

≫ Next: Traveling To Korea For The First Time (From A Guy's Perspective)

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I am not sure and I don't wanna know nadin how much I've already spent for fan meetings and concert tickets! When I was younger, I will save up even just for the General Admission section, for obvious reasons. Breathing the same air, seeing and hearing my idol/s in real life, albeit teeny tiny versions, was enough!

When I started earning a bit more, I now make sure to get good seats. Might not be front row, but at least makita ko clearly yung face/s niya or nila, okay na. Range of these "investments" just to see my favorites in the flesh is about Php 8000 to Php 15,000 per show. Medyo nakakalula sa totoo lang, haha! I think the most expensive that I bought is for Nam Joo Hyuk's first Manila fan meeting, not knowing he'll be coming back a 2nd and 3rd time with just Penshoppe purchases for the ticket. 😅

I learned that BlackPink is coming back to Manila this June for a Meet and Greet with Shopee Philippines. Their mechanics to get a ticket is a bit different to just lining up on ticket release dates, you have to make a purchase in their online shopping platform. 

It's a bit similar to fan meeting mechanics in other countries, credits to ms @KringKim:

To thoroughly explain the mechanics since I received a few DMs about it, you have THREE chances of getting 1 out of just a thousand of the seats in Samsung Hall. I hope I get to explain them well, so here goes!

THE PINK TICKET

Sure Ticket By Purchasing In YG Shop

Purchase any product at the YG Official Store on Shopee from May 11-25, and use special voucher code “SHOPEEXBP” upon check out to qualify and get an exclusive fan meet pass. One checkout is equivalent to one fan meet pass only.

I tried this earlier and was relieved to see that Ikon albums are back in stock. Unfortunately when I tried to input the voucher code “SHOPEEXBP”, it says that it's already fully redeemed. And so we move on to our second option...

THE BLACK TICKET 

Top Spender Sitewide

Shop via Shopee between May 11 - 25, 2019. Total spend will be CUMULATIVE, meaning, you can purchase separately just as long as they are within May 11-25. Think groceries, your school supplies, or for your gadget upgrades. The minimum accumulated spend is Php4,000 to qualify as a Top Spender.

The 568 Top Shopee spender who registered via https://shp.ee/byjbw7c will win one fan meet pass each for the event.

The Top 40 out of the 568 Shopee spender will have a chance to go on stage and have autograph with BlackPink Members!

What will I buy for more chances of winning??? :D 

1) KPOP MERCH

Might as well purchase all the official and unofficial Kpop merch I've been eyeing the past months:

2) YOUR FAN MEET OOTD

Going to the BlackPink fan meet? Prepare for what you will wear during the fancon! A BlackPink top, these cute badges, and a BlackPink keyring:

3) EVERYTHING BLACKPINK

This is the time to buy that authentic hammer bong and BlackPink's new album via Shopee's legit sellers.

4) GADGETS

If you're planning on upgrading or buying a new gadget, then might as well buy them from their official stores in Shopee! I saw that Huawei and Canon are both in the app's Mall section. I am also thinking of getting a new hard drive via Shopee since the last one I got is almost full.

And lastly, I realized that if I am going to buy bulk it will probably be....

5)  GROCERIES!

Medyo nakakatawa pero sobrang practical! Besides, I've bought several edible stuff via Shopee na before--including mga pang fruit shakes ko (chia seeds, coco sugar), and a big bottle of honey!

The Top 40 out of the 568 Shopee spender will have a chance to go on stage and have autograph with BlackPink Members!

Check out THIS PAGE for more information on the BLACK TICKET.

What I like about shopping high value products in Shopee is that you pay through Shopee, the third party in this transaction, and they won't release your money to the seller without you clicking the  "orders received" button. So if hindi dumating sayo yung order, you can easily refund your payment. Ilang beses narin nangyari sa akin to before kaya guaranteed safe mag shop for me sa Shopee.


Here are some more tips before making big purchases in Shopee:

1) Check reviews - Most product listings have them at the end of the posting. These are from actual buyers so you'll know that what you're getting is authentic, or if the seller delivers fast, or if they deliver items well-packaged, etc.

2) Check PHOTOS in reviews from actual buyers. Most of them post the actual look of the product, and sometimes iba sya from the photo posted by the seller.

3) Weigh if you're ok with waiting for your purchase (overseas) or just shop from sellers within Metro Manila. They have an option to filter out these things. Another recommended filter is to buy from PREFERRED sellers.

4) Check the seller profile to see if they ship FAST or if they take time to deliver their goods.

5) And lastly, make sure to avail Shopee's vouchers! I usually forget that they have these, but sobrang sulit when you apply them to your cart. They have free shipping, free "coins", sellers discount coupons, etc.


Oh and before I forget, the 3rd option to get a ticket for the fan meeting is through:

SHOPEE'S TICKET GIVEAWAY
BlackPink x Shopee banner making contest

Purchase materials via Shopee, and create a poster for the BlackPink fan meeting. There will be three winners for this. The entries will be judged in terms of originality (20%), creativity (40%), content (30%) and virality (10%, # of likes and shares combined).

My personal tip is to add elements of Shopee in your entry, maybe adding a touch of orange (Shopee's color) to your artwork! And second is to use things other than paper and coloring materials--think outside the box and make your banner standout from the rest! Add battery operated fairy lights as borders? Place magazine cut-outs of Jisoo, Lisa, Rosé, and Jennie's faces on top of the banner? I saw these sold in Shopee! And lastly, add a WITTY statement--not too long, but something cute and eye-catching!

Full mechanics for this giveaway HERE.

Good luck, Blinks! I am rooting for all of you!!!

---

Traveling To Korea For The First Time (From A Guy's Perspective)

May 19, 2019, 10:44 pm

≫ Next: Human Hair vs Synthetic Hair Wigs

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The past months, I've been in contact with my college classmate and friend Arete for his upcoming Korea trip with his misis (wife). 

From their visas, to their itinerary, to the little details like Korean Won money exchange, we tried to exchange tips to make their first trip to Seoul A+. As I've said before, I may have travelled and write about Korea travels so many times, but I still learn a lot from people I get to talk to about their own travel experiences. 

Yesterday, Arete messaged me that they are finally back in Manila after a "super fun" Korea trip. Then, he also sent his tips and lessons from their own personal experiences, which I realized might be helpful to some of you! I asked if I can share them here on my blog. 

I already have my own "standard Korea travel 101", usual airline, usual travel agency for the visa, usual place where I withdraw my Korean Won, so basically my tips might be limiting when it comes to these things. Again, there are no right or wrong in travelling, but there are OPTIONS. And so I am sharing my friend's lessons as a guy who travelled to Korea for the first time with his wife. I hope you find them helpful! Here goes!

Lesson 1: Don't take the connecting flight from Manila to Cebu to Incheon 

Schedule is 10:35am to 12:10pm Manila - Cebu, and then 2:25pm to 8:10pm Cebu - Incheon. Grabe ang stress! 

Our first flight from Manila to Cebu got delayed. We flew almost 12 na, and we arrived at Cebu 1:20pm. Our boarding time for Cebu to Incheon was 1:30! Grabe. We had to run and ask the manong driver of the shuttle from Terminal 1 to 2 to transfer us already. Buti pumayag kahit konti pa lang ang nakasakay. Basta, don't take this flight kahit sale pa. If you can't resist a cheap connecting flight, better take a flight that leaves manila earlier. Di bale nang mag-antay sa Mactan Airport.

Lesson 2 - The money changer in front of the Chinese Embassy in Myeongdeong really gives a good rate

If you can exchange all of your money there, mas okay. They follow the global rate. Compared to exchanging it in money changers like Sanrys or Czarina here in the PH, you'll save around 1k for a 10,000 PHP transaction. Highly recommended yung money changer sa Myeongdong talaga.

Lesson 3 - Use Naver Map app for navigating the train and bus stations

Not sure if you've tried this already pero it really made my life easier. We had no problem getting from one place to another because of this app. Super recommended.

Lesson 4 - For guys, Korea will be a wonderland for your wife, girlfriend, sister, mother, etc. 

Because of all the cheap clothes, bags, and cosmetics. Expect to be left alone frequently while she browses in a store or a stall. Hehe. But this shouldn't stop you from enjoying the country. Give her time to shop, but do devote some days for the things you really love doing. I'm a kind of guy who likes visiting museums and eating out, so it's either my wife and I combined the things we wanted to do in a single day, or we set a day for her shopping and the next day for my museum hopping. 

But seriously, for guys who want to make their women happy, plan a trip to Korea. she will love you forever.

Lesson 5 - If you can take advantage of the ongoing promo of BPI and BDO for multiple entry korean visas, do it! 

The promo is up to december 31, 2019, but i have a feeling they will extend it again, considering the number of Filipinos who go to Korea. I asked BPI to upgrade my blue card to gold months before we applied, and the rest is history. 

We've only used the visa once but knowing that we can go to korea anytime we want is something that makes my wife and I happy. I consider this as one of my best investments since we know that Korea will only evolve even more as a tourist destination. 

We already want to go back this november for autumn, and with a smaller budget since we now know how affordable korea really is.

Kamsahamnida to my college buddy @aretemequi for the photos and for allowing me to publish his Korea tips on my blog! 

Got more insights? Comment them below or email me at mail.anagon@yahoo.com. ❤

Human Hair vs Synthetic Hair Wigs

May 18, 2019, 10:07 pm

≫ Next: Proper Care for Virgin Remy Hair Extensions

≪ Previous: Traveling To Korea For The First Time (From A Guy's Perspective)

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If your hair feels thin or limp, or you just want to instantly change your hairstyle without cutting your hair short or without waiting for months for it to grow, then here's a very quick and easy solution: Human hair wigs! 

When selecting a wig, make sure to know the difference between human hair wigs and synthetic wigs. This will be a major make or break. Natural hair lace wigs are made of harvested human hair, so they look and feel like your actual hair. Meanwhile, wigs that are made of synthetic materials are made of wool, buffalo hair, or horsehair. These types of lace wigs are also made of high quality materials, but they can easily get easily damaged in high temperature.

Most full lace wigs are made of human hair, it requires considerable care. Human hair wigs are versatile, you can color, perm, or style it easily just like your own hair. It also has a variety of textures that you can choose from to naturally match your hair texture. Human hair lace wig comes with a delicate lace cap, so it's a bit high maintenance and fragile. You should consider when it really needs to be washed, and as long as you clean it with the correct shampoo, then you should not have a problem. It is also a bit pricey, but with proper care, human hair wigs will last for a long period of time.

Meanwhile, synthetic wigs are easier to maintain. They have style retention so you can wash and dry your synthetic wig, and it will return to its original look. Synthetic wigs are also natural looking, you just have to pick the right brand and style. Some budget synthetic wigs might have unnatural shine, so keep an eye on that. You also cannot recolor or use heat hair styling tools with your synthetic wig, as they cannot take high temperature. It may cost less than human hair wig, but it usually last for only about 6 months with daily use.

Proper Care for Virgin Remy Hair Extensions

May 19, 2019, 7:00 pm

≫ Next: ALL ABOUT YEOSU: How To Go, Things To Do, Where To Stay, Etc.

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Many women today turn to hair extensions so that they can enhance the look of their hair, or easily achieve the style that they want without cutting their actual hair or waiting for it to grown. Choosing the right extensions takes some time on your part so you can make sure you get something just right for you. Since buying extensions is an investment, you want to do all you can to get something of the best quality, get it installed properly, and learn the best ways to take care of your hair. Here are some steps you can take to properly care for the virgin Remy hair you have purchased, and make the most of your investment by making it look great all the time.

Maintenance is Important

Since the virgin hair you purchased is unprocessed and natural human hair, it requires maintenance to make sure it stays in the best condition possible. The damage that you may cause to your extensions because of improper or lack of care is irreversible, you will end up wasting your hard-earned money on something you can no longer use. Taking the time to perform daily and regular maintenance on the hair to keep it looking the way you want it for a longer time.

Steps You Can Take

The basic steps you can take to care for your virgin Remy hair are quite simple. You always want to make sure that you keep your hair clean and conditioned so that it maintains its shine, color, and look. Keep the hair properly moisturized, and you will be rewarded with the great look you want. Brushing and combing the hair while it is still wet will help you to maintain a proper look. You also want to be careful when using heat with your hair extensions. Continuously applying heat to the hair will shorten its lifespan and you will not get the same amount of wear you want.

With proper care for your virgin Remy hair, you will get a much longer-lasting extension. If you have any questions about proper maintenance of any of the extensions or wigs, feel free to contact Magic Hair Company by calling 310-558-0181 during regular store hours, or make use of the contact form found on their website.

ALL ABOUT YEOSU: How To Go, Things To Do, Where To Stay, Etc.

May 21, 2019, 1:33 am

≫ Next: 2019 Fashion Trends: Jumpsuits Are Back!

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While making my itinerary for this trip, I saw a gap day between Jeonju and Gwangju. Instead of extending a day in either of them, I decided to pick a random city in between. I don't know how I landed in Yeosu, but what I do know is that I have a spot for port towns. Anything by the beach is instant good vibes! My short stay in Yeosu was definitely worthwhile.

About Yeosu

Out of all my IG Stories asking for tips, I received ZERO reply when it comes to Yeosu. In short, it is not a top of mind vacation site especially for us Filipinos. Reading up, here are some trivia I picked up about this southern town (almost just across Jeju Island) that might make you want to go here on your next trip to Korea.


1) Literal meaning of Yeosu is "Peaceful Water City". Since they are near the sea, Yeosu has cool summers and mild winters, and relatively longer springs and autumns. When I was there (coming from Jeonju) it was so windy I had to take out my extra jacket and bundle up!

2) In 2012, Yeosu hosted its biggest international event when they won the bid against Morocco and Poland. During EXPO 2012, Yeosu received over 8 million visitors from 105 participating countries where they talked about environmental issues like climate change and ocean conservation. Till now, they have a train station called Yeosu EXPO Station.

3) Yeosu is famous for their seafood, beaches, and unique architectures. It's best to view this city from bird's view point, so take the cable car, go up the observatory, or take a hike!

Traveling To Yeosu From Jeonju

From Jeonju, I took the KTX for Yeosu EXPO with about 1.5 hours travel time. I bought my train ticket on-the-spot at around 16,000 KRW (around Php 700).

The train was not full, but I had a hard time looking for a compartment space for my medium luggage (best to pack light if you can). The conductor checking the train tickets passed by and I asked her for assistance, and was told I can just put my luggage right next to me. Every time the train stops, I was hoping no one's assigned on the chair next to me kung hindi ang hassle! 😁

The train ride was so comfortable, I was able to post my mandatory 10th blog anniversary IG post hehehe. I was caught off guard when I saw people standing up for the next station, which is Yeochon. I forgot to double check my ticket, and instead, I stood up with the crowd and went off the train with them--mahirap na lumagpas! Yun pala I was still one station away from Yeosu EXPO! I had to take a cab all the way to my hostel, which costed my about Php 900ish! 😅





Aside from taking the KTX, or if you're coming from Seoul, here are other way to go to Yeosu:

By Plane
You can book for flights from Gimpo Airport to Yeosu Airport via Asiana or Korean Air. Flight takes around 30 minutes only.

By Train
The fastest way by train from Seoul is still via KTX, which will take around 3.5 hours from Seoul Station.

By Bus
Take a bus from Express Bus Terminal, with 5 hours travel time.


Where I Stayed In Yeosu

With a quick research, I trusted the user reviews and just booked Yeosu Inn Guesthouse via Agoda. A night only costs 18,000 KRW, or around Php 800, and this already includes breakfast! What I like about booking a room with Agoda is the user reviews and the map of the accommodation that you can show to your taxi driver (in Korea, hotel name is usually in Hangul or Korean text).

Although Yeosu can just be a day-trip, let's say from Jeju or Gwangju, I realized that I prefer staying for at least one night per city just so I can fully absorb it. And also, so I can rest from all the long commutes! I cannot imagine navigating and carrying my luggage 2x in one day haha. 😅

I am also happy that my stay at the Yeosu Inn Guesthouse was very memorable and pleasant. Grabe sobrang sulit! I was supposed to be in a 4-bed dorm room, but ended up with no roomies during my whole stay!

But aside from the comfort and luxury of a private room and CR, the highlight is the kind ahjumma guesthouse owner who, even with zero English up her sleeves, sure knows how to make me at ease and at home in her guesthouse.



The only downside I can think of is that they have no elevators, so I had to carry my luggage till my room on the third floor. I am used to this especially since I usually stay in dorms, but just a warning in case you are not fond of this set-up.



Here's how my room looks like. Para syang university dormitory, but very clean and neat! As you enter the door, there are two doors next to each other with one leading to the toilet and bath, and the other leading to the room.



There are 2 bunk beds meant for four guests, but then again, I was lucky to stay here on my own! They also assign a locker for your luggage, but di ko na sya nagamit. They also have a small ref, a hair dryer, and a box of tissue on top of the lockers.

Two electrical outlets and a tiny bedside table for each bed:




The restroom already has shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and toothpaste + hot shower 24/7:

I was not in a rush to leave Yeosu the next day, so I made sure to enjoy my sleep and my short stay in this guesthouse. I guess that's the perk of just taking the bus or KTX on-the-spot, your schedule is flexible depending on your mood (or energy) for the day.

How To Go Around Yeosu

I've been reading Yeosu transportation tips, and most bloggers prefer riding a taxi to navigate the city.

I took the bus to Odongdo Island, but I was just lucky to chance upon a very helpful local by the bus stop. She was also on her way to Odongdo to hike with friends!

It was a memorable bus stop encounter for me because the ahjumma was very friendly, and she really tried her best to strike a conversation. Buses were very few so matagal talaga ang waiting time. Ahjumma said she's taking a nightly English class, trying to study the language for her niece who is now studying abroad. The little time we spent at the bus stop I tried to teach her how to count in English, while she taught me a few Korean words I often just hear in Kdramas, hehe!

 From Odongdo, I also walked a lot, took the cable car to another side of the city, and then hailed a taxi for my last stops (Aqua Park and heading back to the guesthouse). Tita traveler na ata talaga ako, tamad na mag effort, hoho!


Things To Do In Yeosu

Just for a day, here are the sites and attractions I was able to accomplish:

Odongdo Island 

Odongdo Island is known for its beautiful camellia flowers, lighthouse observatory, cliffs, musical fountain, and of course a nice view of the blue ocean.

Since I just came from a Php 900+ taxi ride for getting off the wrong train station, I decided to just go by foot across the breakwater connecting Yeosu Port to Odongdo Island. They also have a Dongbaek Train option (500 KRW), but I just enjoyed the view of the 2012 EXPO site across Odongdo as I walked at my own pace. Maybe when it's colder will take this train.

The highlights of Odongdo Island:

Odongdo is famous for its scarlet camellia trees, which blooms from November to April. I was a little late for its full bloom season, but still spotted a few during my hike in the island!

Turtle Ship! I think these are just replicas, but a turtle ship is a large Korean warship used during the Joseon dynasty. There's one near Dolsan Bridge that you can enter the ship for free.

A musical fountain park! I stayed in this area just to people watch, while Busker Busker's Cherry Blossom Ending was playing. I love that the song instantly lifts up the mood! I even saw kids wearing rain gears by the water fountain, dancing and jumping!

Here's where the Dongbaek Train ride ends, and where you can also board if you're leaving Odongdo.

The entrance for the hike to Odongdo's trail has a huge signage featuring the Bare Feet Odongdo Park, and its health benefits! They really encourage walking here in Korea.

Although I was clueless and did not know what to expect, the Odongdo trail had lots of English signages that you can just follow. It was a lovely walk around bamboo forests, cliffs, and views of the ocean here and there. I also went up the lighthouse for the free observatory. Wind was cool but not uncomfortable, It was a nice exercise and sight-seeing in one!

Yeosu Maritime Cable Car

After walking back to Yeosu Port, I chanced up this high building heading to the Yeosu Maritime Cable Car. Since I only have one afternoon here, I decided to just buy a one-way ticket for the cable car. YOLO na ito!

Before the cable car ticket booth, I also saw this resting area with heart-shaped wood attached to poles like Namsan's lovelocks:

First time in my whole life I had to take a cable car ALONE! There was a fairly long line, but mostly they were for the crystal cabin (which I didn't take para tipid ng onti - 15,000KRW vs 22,000 KRW). So I went straight to my solo standard cabin! Haha, I am not usually afraid of rides and heights, but dito kinabahan ako ng konti!



Naisip ko nalang, sobrang sulit nito a! My own private cable car cabin for the price of 1! Hehe!

Dolsan Island

From Yeosu mainland, the cable car ends in Dolsan Island. I had a nice view of Yeosu from the cable car, so I highly recommend the experience!

Meanwhile, if I had more time it would have been nice to check out more of what Dolsan Island has to offer. They have beaches, a coastal trail (hiking uli! Hehe!), and the popular Yeosu site Hyangiram Hermitage, an old Buddhist temple located along a coastal cliff!

But anyway, with limited time I was only able to go around Dolsan Park, at its far end there was a viewing deck for the Dolsan Bridge, Marine Park, and the beautiful Janggundo Island.

Yeosu Hanhwa Aqua Planet 

I was sad during my taxi ride to my last stop for Yeosu. It was already nearing 5pm, and most establishments will be closed in an hour. If it's a 24-hours outdoor location, takot din naman ako to stay till late in an unfamiliar territory.

Anyway, so my last Yeosu destination was in the Aqua Planet, the second largest aquarium in South Korea. I have already said this before, I wasn't fond of indoor activities whenever I travel. I also am not a fan of aquariums. I am making an exemption for Yeosu Aqua Planet as it is also the filming location of Lee Min Ho and Jun Ji-hyun's drama The Legend of the Blue Sea!



I only had an hour left till closing, so they suggested that I just get a certain ticket. I was too late nadin daw for the mermaid show, sayang! For the kinds of tickets and their corresponding rates, you can check out THIS PAGE.

Akala ko super rush nalang ako and I had enough aqua parks in my life, but I still enjoyed Yeosu's. Super entertaining! I think I was also amused by the crowd of the Aqua Park, mostly Korean families with kids or couples on a date. Ang gaan ng mood, and random mo yung super aliw nila sa animals, panay ang picture picture nila hehehe!

I love this section of the Aqua Park! You'll find curious creatures and a dark room filled with lighted jellyfish on this zone.







This huge tank is the one in Legend of the Blue Sea! Even without the Kdrama reference, I love the setup of this zone. Para kang nasa movie house with the huge aquarium as the big screen, and bleachers in front where you can just rest and watch.

Screencap from the Kdrama! Heo Joon Jae!!! Hahaha.

When I got back in my hostel, two of the highlights of my last hours in Yeosu are my dinner and my breakfast the next day. I had no energy to look for a resto so I just asked for the nearest convenience store. It was just 2 blocks or less away from the guesthouse.

I bought an instant BIBIMBAP in a 7Eleven, and brought it to the "secret pantry", after the owner directed me to it downstairs. Ang aliwalas ng place! And they have everything that I need! From clean drinking water, microwave, toaster, lahat na! And can I just, super bango ng place! Haha.

Also, before leaving the next day, I carried my luggage downstairs when the guesthouse owner saw me and pointed again downstairs, while acting like she's eating to invite me to have breakfast first!

I was the first one in the room. She showed me her humble spread, then took an egg from a full bowl, and pressed the warm piece on my arm! Ahhh, nakaka tuwa talaga! The guesthouse owner then left me to enjoy my meal privately. I had toasted bread with butter and jam, hardboiled eggs, banana, Jeju orange juice, and unlimited cups of coffee. I took my time to savor this simple breakfast, sinangag lang talaga ang kulang pero overall this is exactly how I wanted to start a new day. ❤

...To be continued!

Watch my Yeosu Instagram Stories:

ALL ABOUT JEJU

ALL ABOUT BUSAN

ALL ABOUT DAEGU

ALL ABOUT JEONJU

2019 Fashion Trends: Jumpsuits Are Back!

May 29, 2019, 3:09 am

≫ Next: Tips For That Healthy Summer Glow!

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Anyone who follows me knows that I love clothes! Over the years, I must have tried out different styles. I really enjoyed all my fashion transitions, from color blocking, boho, donya, normcore, to athleisure. I love experimenting, and I also love that fashion just keeps on returning.

This is definitely starting to happen again. If you click here you will see that jumpsuits, playsuits and boilersuits are all making a comeback!

Great news for me, I quite like them. I have fond memories of wearing my vintage floral jumpsuit a few years back!

But, not everyone is a fan. I think partly because they do not really know how and where to wear them. 

So, with this in mind, I have come up with a few suggestions. Ideas that will help you to select a jumpsuit or playsuit that is right for you.

A playsuit for the beach and sightseeing

A playsuit is a great option for a vacation. They enable you to cover up for the walk to the beach.

This is important. Particularly, when visiting somewhere that does not allow swimwear to be worn in the street, restaurants of shops. 

For example, in Barcelona, Mallorca and Benidorm, in Spain, fines are handed out to women who wear bikinis in the street. You can read about some of these restrictions, here.

A loose fitting playsuit is ideal for these situations. They are normally short and sleeveless, so you can continue to top up your tan while walking to the restaurant, bar or doing a bit of shopping.

If you choose wisely, you can also wear it for sight-seeing. But, it is wise to pack a lightweight jacket or kimono. That way, if the day is not that warm, you will still be able to stay warm.

A jumpsuit for any occasion

Jumpsuits are the more formal cousin of the playsuit. They tend to have long trousers and sleeves. So, you can potentially wear them year round.

There are lots of different cuts available. A closely tailored one could potentially be worn for work. Or, you could buy a generously cut, floaty jumpsuit that would be ideal for wearing for a meal out or as an alternative to a dress.

A boilersuit for active days out

This year, a lot of fashion designers have decided to follow the utility trend. They have designed their jumpsuits to look more like highly stylized boilersuits. That means big pockets, a relatively loose fit and a simple cut. All of which makes a boilersuit the ideal choice for days out that involve activities. 

They are perfect for cycling, hiking, riding and a range of other activities. Provided, that is that you buy one that is loose enough. You need to have plenty of freedom of movement.

I hope you try one or two of my suggestions out. Once you find the perfect jumpsuit for you and realize how versatile they are, you won’t look back. In fact, you are very likely to end up buying more than one.