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Tips For That Healthy Summer Glow!

May 30, 2019, 8:11 pm
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Having glowing skin is more than just using makeup products like bronzer or highlighter, it is actually making sure you are healthy! It means you are "glowing from within".

One of my goals now that I am on my 30s is to have clear and bright skin through a healthier lifestyle. There are many ways to do this, here are some of them.


EAT HEALTHY

This might sound easy to me as a vegetarian, but honestly, I always find myself eating dairies, carbs, and junk foods all the time instead of my greens! 

Nutrition is important not only to stay healthy, but also to get clearer skin. Some healthy foods that will help you achieve great skin includes avocados, tomatoes, walnuts, broccoli, and green tea. 

Indulge in these, and add high fiber foods in your diet like brown rice, whole wheat bread, grains and oatmeal to achieve a healthy body from inside and out! You can also take RiteMED Fibermate to your diet (2x a day, with your heaviest meals). It is easy to prepare by just adding water, and comes in small sachet so it's easy to bring even when you're on the go.




DRINKS LOTS OF WATER

Drinking 8 glasses a day will rid your body and skin with toxins. By increasing your water intake daily, your skin will have more radiant glow. Some even say that it helped them with their acne problems, although this will take time and not happen overnight. Consistency is key!



GET ACTIVE

Aside from losing weight, exercise is actually good for the skin! Sweating out purges your body toxins that clogs your pores. Make sure to take a bath after you workout! 

I also love the "instant glow" I get after a day at the gym! Exercising tones and firms the skin, and when you get your heart pumping, your skin receives a good dose of oxygenated blood that gives you that natural glow from within. I hope I get back to my fitness life this month, and go to the gym at least 3x a week!

TAKE VITAMIN C DAILY

All my friends know this: I LOVE MY VITAMIN C! Haha!

Vitamin C strengthens the immune system, and it also boosts all the other supplements you take--making them even more effective. That's why I make sure not to miss drinking my RiteMED Sodium Ascorbate twice daily (morning and night time). I prefer taking this non-acidic Vitamin C so I don't have to worry about my empty tummy. 

Sodium Ascorbate also has antioxidant properties and is vital for our skin cells. Taking Vitamin C daily helps in collagen synthesis and prevents UV-induced photo damage. 



SKINCARE IS LIFE!

Last but not the least, make sure to religiously follow your skincare routine--especially before ending the day! I think my skin visibly improved when I started giving it more TLC when I got hooked with Korean skincare brands. 10-Step Korean skincare might sound tedious, so you simply just have to follow these simple steps:

1) Double Cleanse - Facial wash is not enough. Make sure to remove oils and makeup with the right product, before proceeding with your facial wash.

2) Apply serum or essence that your skin condition needs. It can either be for acne treatment, dry skin, dull skin, or large pores--there are products in the market dedicated for all these concerns.

3) Lastly, make sure to wear SPF every time you leave the house--rain or shine!

MY RITEMED 15-DAY CHALLENGE

I recently took the RiteMED 15-Day Challenge, and in all honesty, it was easier for me since I really take Vitamin C daily! I like that with the Sodium Ascorbate, I feel healthier and more energized even when I have a lot of work to do, and even during my travels where it requires physical and mental strength daily. 

Meanwhile, Fibermate may be a new addition to my daily diet, but it was helpful in maintaining my weight even with all the food trips I did while in Thailand. I also feel full after drinking a glass of water with Fibermate, so I guess it also helps not only in improving my digestion but also in moderating my food intake! 

I guess it's safe to say that I'll continue with my daily RiteMED supplements since they've done nothing but wonders and improvements in my overall health: from better skin, weight management, and it keeps me healthy at all times.




RiteMED Fibermate (Php 622 / 30 Sachets) and Sodium Ascorbate (Php 4.50 / Capsule) are available in all major drugstores nationwide. They are currently on Buy 1 Take 1 online via Shopee. Follow them on Facebook and Instagram @ritemedicine for more information and updates!


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ALL ABOUT GWANGJU: Where To Stay, Things To Do, Where To Eat, Etc.

June 7, 2019, 6:02 am
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Gwangju is the hardest to grasp for me for this Spring 2019 trip. It was frustrating! I thought it will be Yeosu since I only had less than a day to explore this city. But Gwangju, I felt the same feeling I had when my last day was about to end in Busan--sobrang bitin! Parang hindi ko pa sya makilala ng lubusan.

Gwangju's must see sites, aside from the ones I was able to visit, are about 2-3 hours away from the city proper. These include a bamboo forest and a green tea farm from neighboring cities. I had to take long bus rides to achieve these side trips, which will take up my whole day. It wasn't possible on my day 1 since it was just my arrival, and my day 2 since it was also the SBS Super Concert day. And sadly, even my day 3 was already set as my transit day for Seoul (plus it was raining!).



In the little time I spent in Gwangju, I was able to appreciate this side of Korea with little western influences. I appreciate the people who were very kind to tourists, even though there were minimal travellers in their city (compared to Seoul). They were warm and welcoming, especially my guesthouse owner Panda Mom who cooked the MOST DELICIOUS Korean pancakes for us every morning for breakfast. 

If I will go back to any of the cities I went to for this trip, it's definitely Gwangju coz of my unfinished businesses here. My favorite encounters in Gwangju aside from Panda Mom, my guesthouse friend, and the SBS Concert are the food market and Penguin Village. Here are the stuff that went down on that quick trip to South Korea's "province" (the literal meaning of the word Gwangju!).

Vignettes from my neighborhood in Gwangju:





ABOUT GWANGJU

Some facts about Gwangju:

1) It is the 6th largest city in South Korea, located in the heart of the agricultural Jeolla region.

2) Its name is composed of the words Gwang (Hangul: 광; Hanja: 光) meaning "light" and Ju (주; 州) meaning "province."

3) Some notable personalities from Gwangju include Seungri of Big Bang, J-Hope of BTS, Minzy of 2NE1, and actress Park Shin Hye!

4) Considered as the "Birthplace for Korean Democracy". Looking up, Gwangju is known in history for the tragic Gwangju Uprising, or the May 18 Democratic Uprising that dated from May 18 to 27 in 1980.  

"During this period, Gwangju citizens took up arms (by robbing local armories and police stations) when local Chonnam University students who were demonstrating against the martial law government were fired upon, killed, raped and beaten by government troops."(source)

Most of the monuments and tourist spots of Gwangju are in commemoration for the 5.18 incident.


A subway billboard in Gwangju, featuring Hoseok of BTS paid by his fans: 



HOW TO GO + HOW TO GO AROUND

From Yeosu's Yeocheon bus station, I took a nonstop bus to Gwangju U-Square for around Php 680. Travel time is about 2 hours. 

Aside from bus, other options include train and plane.

Gwangju has KTX stations (Gwangju Station and Gwangju Songjeong Station), and local subway and bus system. I used the train and bus a lot while I was in Gwangju, but I also walked a lot when my next destination is just about 15 minutes away, max. 

They also have Gwangju Airport if you want to take direct flights from Incheon or Gimpo.








WHERE TO STAY IN GWANGJU

Again, the highlight of my Gwangju trip is my stay at the Panda Guesthouse.

But before that, let me say that there are many negative things that I can point out about Panda Guesthouse. First, the dorm is located on the 3rd floor of a building with no lift, so I had to carry my luggage myself to reach the hostel. Second, it's the smallest common room I had for this whole trip, so bye bye na talaga sa privacy and personal space. And lastly, the switch for hot water is outside our room, crossing the kitchen. It was spring time pa, and water is still cold! There's this one time that I will never forget where I had soap and shampoo na but I had to wear my clothes again, and go out of the shower room, cross the kitchen, just to see that someone from another room actually switched off the heater!!!


My roommate saw me running, cold and wet across the kitchen, and I just hurriedly shouted, "They turned off the heater!" HAHA!

Liblib corner and steep stairs to the hostel:



But even with all these boo boos, Panda Mom made her way to my heart with her home cooked Korean meals and genuine concern! She communicates to me through her Korea to English app, shows interest when I told her about the concert I went to (even showing the morning paper with BTS on the front page!), and other little things like taking my pic in the kitchen so she can add it to her wall, telling me that she'll leave for Sunday mass service, getting our cab to the bus terminal coz it was raining on our last day, etc. Encounters in the Panda House felt very very personal! It's the kind of vibe and relationship you'll want to have when staying in a guest house. In a way, she made us feel like a small family in her own little, homey hostel in the middle of Gwangju.


Welcome to Panda Guesthouse in Gwangju! I booked here because of the good reviews in Agoda, and because it only costed me around Php 2000 for 2 nights!




Here's my room at the guesthouse, which I shared with 3 other guests. There is no privacy, no personal space! But I was able to get by because everyone's just minding their own business.



The lower bunk is mine, while my top bunk mate seems to have no inhibitions at all! Haha!

The house rules, super basic and easy to remember:

There are two doors inside our room, one leading to a small laundry area, and the other one is the toilet and bath (complete with toiletries).




I experienced 2 breakfasts here in the Panda Guesthouse! Super love the kimchi pancake cooked fresh everyday by our Panda Mom + orange slices for dessert!



THINGS TO DO IN GWANGJU

Here's my list of some of the places you can go to when you're in Gwangju.

Chungjang-ro Street – Gwangju's Myeongdong (shopping and food center). Went here briefly for coffee and egg tart at the recommended Palace Bakery.



Yanglimdong– a lane of coffee shops, café hopping

Gwangju Observation Tower - best view of the city!

Penguin Village (Yangnim-dong Penguin Village) - First of all, do not expect a penguin when you go to Gwangju's Penguin Village! Haha! It's actually a photo zone where lots of random knick-knacks were put together to create art. It reminds me of the Rainbow Village of Taichung in Taiwan and Gamcheon Culture Village where you go to take pictures and check out cool outdoor art. It also has a souvenir shop, and no food options except for a small stall where you can buy instant ramen and the like.






I really like my short stroll around the Penguin Village, it's like a whole different world! I hope they add cafes so my stop will feel more complete!




1913 Songjeong Market– The Songjeong Station Market used to be a go-to place to buy produce and other items, but in the 90s people started to prefer large marts for their shopping. To maintain the 1913 Songjeong Market, they redesigned the area and emphasized the history of the old shops. It's now a mix of traditional and modern food stalls.


Since it was almost dinner time, I tried some of the food stalls like this grilled cheese stand:

There's a random stage in the middle of the road, with people just dancing and taking videos of each other!



I had a whole tray of vegetable gimbap for dinner, yum!



Art Street - just walking distance from the hostel, Art Street was my first stop on my first day in Gwangju. They have small stores where you can purchase art created by locals. There's also a cosplay event when I was there, and kids drawing with colored chalk on black papers taped on the ground.
 






May 18 Memorial Park - Didn't realize that this one is still different from the May 18 National Cemetery, but way easier to get to. I was able to find my way to this huge and beautiful park which pays tribute to the civilians that fought and died during the uprising.

Honestly not much to do here, as it is just a park. Locals were there to walk their dogs, have a picnic with their families, and just chill and enjoy the outdoors. So I just kept strolling, before deciding to go back to the subway.









Asia Culture Center - Just across our guesthouse is the ACC! I wasn't able to maximize my time here, but it's like Seoul's DDP where they hold exhibits and performances in this venue. The architectures, just like DDP, is also very impressive! Aside from the shows, they also have a library, museums, and an outdoor bazaar at night (while I was there).






Side Trips from Gwangju:  
May 18 National Cemetery
Boseong Tea Fields
Damyang Bamboo Forest  

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On my last day in Gwangju, I wanted to visit even just one from my list of side trips but the rain ruined my game plan. I decided to just let go of it, pack my bags, and leave for Seoul.

My roommate became an instant friend. She's from Malaysia, but currently studying in Korea's Chuncheon area. She can fluently speak in Korean, so she's my translator for the day haha! We usually exchange smiles whenever we pass by each other during breakfast, and she's the girl I saw in the kitchen during the water heater incident! Hehe!

We decided to go to the bus stop together, and Panda Mom noticed that we have too much stuff and, again, it was raining non-stop. Instead of commuting, she called for a taxi. While we were waiting inside Panda Mom's other business which is an optical shop, we had a little chat and thank yous and photo sessions. This was also the time when Panda Mom showed BTS in Gwangju's front page feature. You can read more of my SBS Super Concert here.




 

 You really can't tell when and how you'll be friends with anyone during travels, but I am happy I was lucky in Gwangju. :)

Watch my full IG Stories on this city on my IGTV @anagon.



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Unexplored Seoul: IKSEONDONG

June 11, 2019, 11:28 pm
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The Seoul part of my recent Korea trip is pretty spontaneous. I do have a list of places prior this trip, where I placed every new locations I wanted to visit, but it's not a sure-deal and my DM was open for suggestions.

One of the new places that sparked my interest was actually a suggestion of one of my IG friends Ate Cris. She introduced me to the neighborhood of IKSEONDONG. 







What I like about Ikseondong

1) It is still low-key, it is not something you'll usually read on travel blogs.

2) Established in the 1920, Ikseondong is actually an OLD neighborhood in Seoul! It is an alternative to Myeongdong, Dongdaemun, and I think even Garosugil.

3) When the youngsters takeover, without totally changing the place, it becomes so hip and trendy! Young and local artists and entrepreneurs opened their own cafes, restos, and shops in Ikseondong--and they're super fun to explore. And even with the modernism takeover, you will still find touch of traditional Korea here and there giving this place a unique charm.

4) It's a bit similar to Tokyo's Meiji Jingumae for the creative local concept stores and designs, or Omoide Yokocho's twists and turns, and narrow maze-like streets! In the Philippines, it's comparable I guess to Poblacion? 

Just walking around Ikseondong makes me so inspired to create and even to have my own small business.

5) It's a one big "photo zones". Everywhere you turn is a photogenic backdrop waiting for your camera's shutter! 




What to expect in Ikseondong

Ikseondong is a mish-mash of everything. They have different concept restaurants so you can have your lunch or dinner here, cute cafes and bakeshops where you can just chill and relax mid-day.

Aside from food, I also saw vintage and vintage themed shops, stores selling handicrafts, and hanbok rental stores. Oh, I also saw stores selling modernized hanboks (Korean traditional costume!). 

I also like the cute photo booths scattered in every corner of this neighborhood!




Recommended sites in Ikseondong

1) Shop at Vintage Bonnie and Assibabgagan
2) Rent a hanbok at Kukminhanbok Chabim
3) Have legit Korean pork cutlet and retro-style resto at Gyeongyangsik 1920
4) Dine in a Korean soju tent in Ikseondong's Pojangmacha Street
5) Buy Ssal Sanghoe's hotteok, while enjoying the backstreets of Ikseondong
6) Have coffee in Uncle Videotown--a cafe and cinema in one!




How To Go To Ikseondong

Take the subway and go down Jongno 3-ga Station, exit 4.
Follow Google Maps to Ikseon-dong Hanok Village.






Is this somewhere you'd want to go? Do you have other alternative Seoul destinations? ❤
Special thanks to Ate @eagertravelcris for this tip!

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My Guesthouse Myeongdong Experience (Affordable Private Room In Seoul)

June 13, 2019, 12:16 am
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It's already a known fact that I book hostels, dorms, and guesthouses for my solo trips in Korea. It's not because of preference, but it's just what I can afford at the moment without asking for any sponsors to cover for my personal travels.

It's amazing how a hostel in Korea can go as low as Php 500, and it's already in prime location. Average cost of the bed spaces I've stayed in Seoul is around Php 1000 (inclusive of extra charges). This just proves that Korea travels are more affordable compared to Japan! You can read more about my budget accommodation experiences in Korea in this post.

Through the hostel life, I also discovered so many things about myself. The things that I can endure, and what irks me! It also makes me proud how I can watch over myself, especially when I stay in spaces with minimal privacy.


Now let's go back to that rainy day in Gwangju. I took the bus from U Square, no need to pre-book tickets online as they have available buses I think every hour. This bus goes directly to Seoul's Express Bus Terminal, with one stopover so you can buy snacks and drinks, stretch, or go to the restroom. It is so convenient, my luggage was hidden safe in a compartment--I don't have to think about luggage allowances and restrictions. It makes the I steep fare price worth paying (Php 1200).



For this Seoul trip, I decided to book in a solo room so I can fix my luggage without hassling any roommates. I found Guesthouse Myeongdong 1 in Agoda.

What I like about Guesthouse Myeongdong 1

1) Price. It is very affordable and practical. I booked their "Economy Single Room" for 3 nights, which only costed me more or less Php 3100 (inclusive of charges). That's already a good deal for a private room!

2) Location. Very very good location. Situated in Myeongdong, everything's walking distance from the guesthouse! This includes the popular nightly street food area, the shopping area, ATM and money exchange, the airport bus terminal, and the Myeongdong subway station exit 9 is just a short distance from the hostel's entrance.

Photos of Guesthouse Myeongdong 1 from Agoda. It is right next to Hotel Skypark III. Hilera din sya ng L7 Myeongdong, where I stayed last autumn 2017 with KTO.

Subway is just about a minute away from the guesthouse (Nearest is Exit 9)

The Airport Limousine stop is also walking distance (no need to cross the other side or ride any cab). Super convenient during my flight day back to Manila! Kahit ang dami dami kong bags pauwi, I was comfortable.



They also have my favorite Paris Baguette in the next building, my go-to breakfast bakery in Seoul for their variety of fresh bread selections and good coffee.


3) Extras. I did not expect that they have a kitchen area, but it's an added feature for the convenience of their guests. It has a hot and cold water dispenser so yey for free drinking water during my whole stay, a sink, and basic kitchen stuff like plates and utensils. Not sure, but I think they even have a microwave.



What I don't like about Guesthouse Myeongdong 1

1) Shady. Since it is central and a lot of people just pass by in front of the hostel's entrance, it's a bit scary especially at night. I have to be cautious every time I go home, making sure no one's following me haha! Main door doesn't have locks that you can just go up and down anytime, and second floor reception closes at 11pm so I am not sure if they have any security measures after that. CCTVs wouldn't help you on-the-spot.

Picture of the main entrance I got from their Agoda page:

2) Rusty, steep stairs. Yup there are no elevators, and the reception area is at the second floor. My room is on the third floor, so I carried my luggage aaaall the way up! I am sure they even have a 4th and 5th floor, so kawawa kung doon ka nabook! I almost lost my balance when I first went up with my heavy luggage, at hindi tuloy tuloy yung hawakan sa stairs hindi ko napansin! 😅 Obviously from the photos, madumi din sya and not maintained.



Photo from their Agoda page, this is the doorway to their reception area where you check-in. It closes 11pm.


3) Public Restroom. I might have gotten the private room, but it doesn't have its own shower and toilet, so I still go downstairs or up for my baths. Scary din for me every night I take my bath, and usually I rest first and go to the toilet mga midnight na haha!

Common din yung CR for boys and girls, medyo masikip and hmmm not the dirtiest but not that clean din. May provided namang basic toiletries (body wash and shampoo), but you have to bring your own towel, rubber slippers, and other vanity stuff like toothbrush and toothpaste, facial wash, etc. Also, make sure your door is locked okay! And better if your vanity kit has a mini hook para kahit kulang ang sabitan you can get by.

Alam nyo nasanay na ako since one per floor lang yung CR, everytime may kakatok or try open ng door, sisigaw nako ng "Someone's in here!" or lalakasan ko yung tubig para lang alam nilang may tao hahaha.




Welcome To My Room

Also a picture from Agoda, here's how the hallway to the rooms looks like:


Here's how my Economy Single Room looks like:


Doors use keys, and it is super thin that only one person can go through. Ang galing din naman ng nag design ng place, all spaces were utilized. Right next to the door is a small window (at least I know may ventilation and hindi naman sya naging problem sakin), and then under this window is already my bed:




The beds are also super small, as in manipis. Made for just one person so wag na mag attempt tumakas and mag stay with a friend here ha kahit tag tipid, lol! There's this one time nagulat talaga ako sa alarm ko, at LITERALLY GUMULONG AKO sa sahig! 😂 Natawa nalang ako sa sarili ko! But later on naisip ko buti tinabi ko yung mga posters and albums na pinagbibili ko, kundi uuwi akong luhaan! 😅

To be fair, for such a small room it has its own TV, small ref, and small cabinets -- lahat hindi ko nagamit but thank you parin. And just above my bed is a rod with plastic hangers for my coats and clothes.


The room also has plenty of sockets for charging my gadgets, and the flooring space next to my bed is just enough to open my medium sized luggage.

I have a lot of things to say about my stay here in Guesthouse Myeongdong, from its cleanliness, dubious neighbors that I didn't get to see (or praning lang ako), but all in all pwede na sya if nagtitipid ka talaga. 

Just make sure to be cautious at all times--keep your doors locked at all times, bring your own toiletries if you're OC, etcetera.


Guesthouse Info and Rules! I don't think they still have the entrance locked, as mentioned earlier. Also, I wasn't able to check their iron and laundry area, but yey for that! They also have a fast and free wifi connection.

Shopping every night was easy! Kapag mabigat na yung shopping bags, I can easily drop everything to my room, before heading back again to Myeongdong!

Tuloy ang laban! Haha! I love acquainting myself to Korean brands from cosmetics, cute things, and skincare whenever I am in Myeongdong:



They also have packed Korean foods that I love to take home for my family and closest friends.

Iba din yung laman ng sports stores nila compared here in the Philippines! I love checking out new sneakers or athleisure bags when I am in Seoul

Where to get authentic Kpop albums with posters, and unofficial Korean actor and idol merch? At the Myeongdong Underground! I go here every night, since madali lang for me to exit from the subway to #9 for my hostel. Sobrang convenient!



 My floor situation during my last day. The room served its purpose: It's a private space where I can fix my things without hassling anyone.





Survived 3 nights in this room! Will I stay here again? For the price and location, maybe!


Do you have your own guesthouse stories too? Or do you have other Seoul guesthouse tips for me? Will wait for your suggestions. ❤

Watch the first part of my Seoul IGTV, or check my Instagram @anagon:


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KL Serviced Residences: Staycation Near Greenbelt Makati + Dream Condo Aesthetics!

June 16, 2019, 11:58 pm
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I had a workation (work + staycation) last Friday in a property in Makati called KL Serviced Residences. I had lots of stuff to do around the area before the big India trip this weekend, so staying for a night in a more central location worked well in my favor as I live in the south. 


Aside from getting things done without tiring myself from spending most of my time in transit, I also had the chance to catch up with my friends Ava and Ashley (with my inaanak Aki). Although Ashley just spent the day with us, they went home late nadin so it's nice that they had time to rest muna while waiting for Justine.

Anyway, sharing some pictures and insights about my 1 night stay in KL Serviced Residences. Room type where I stayed in is their 1 Bedroom Loft, located at the 30th floor. 

If you know anyone visiting Manila and looking for a place to stay, or someone working overtime in Makati area and need an affordable room for a night or two, then this hotel is highly recommended! In my books, it is also an ideal location for Christmas parties and other small group togethers like bridal or baby showers. ❤

Heading inside my 1 Bedroom Loft, and amazed by its size!

Here's the living room area right in front of the kitchenette. I love the high ceiling and glass windows--it makes the room even classier and bigger.

Unintentional nude tones twinning! 

Ideal condo unit size and interiors:

What I love about KL Serviced Residences

1) Location. It is walking distance from Greenbelt 1, and they have a park right in front! If I were to stay here longer, will definitely spend longer time in the park and make sure to try out the popular third wave coffee shops of Makati!



Some corners of the park has Japan vibes! Wearing almost all Mossimo (shirt, pants, bag):


2) Price. I checked their Agoda listing, and saw that they have rooms for as low as Php 3800+! The One Bedroom Loft in Agoda is only around Php 5450 (exclusive of other charges).

3) Spacious. Our room is so big, it can actually accommodate my whole family! Or it can also be a next venue for future house parties! 

4) Complete Amenities. They have everything you're looking for in a hotel: a gym, a sauna, a spa, and a swimming pool. Restaurants, shopping malls, ATM machines, and a 7Eleven are all just walking distance. KL Serviced Residences is an ideal accommodation for travellers looking for a comfortable but not so pricey room to stay in Makati.

KL Yard is located in the 7th floor. They have the pool, gym, and sauna in this area:





5) Room is also complete! It has a kitchenette with a big ref, a microwave, plates, bowls, cutleries, cooker, etc. It has enough plugs for charging, TV on both floors, toilet and bath on both floors, a terrace / balcony, towels and all toiletries you'll need for a short stay, etc.

Bought snacks and drinks from the nearby 7Eleven and brought them to our loft:

The kitchenette has a ref, a microwave, an oven and stove, etc.

Complete things you'll need when you prepare food. Complimentary water is also in a refillable glass bottle.

6) Interiors. Love the design of the place! Very modern and still homey. It has the vibe and aesthetic that I want to have when I own a unit already! Not only their rooms, even their lobby, pool area, and restaurant are very 'aesthetic". I am sure the Instagram kids will love KL Serviced Residences!


The view from our balcony:

What I don't like about KL Serviced Residences

1) Just a minor issue, but my Grab cannot stop right in front of the entrance of the property because it's in a main road. I had to drop off across the street in front of the park with my luggage.

(NOTE: Make sure to pin KL Serviced Residences Soria Street, at the back of the building, for your pick-up and drop-off)

2) I also noticed that the hot water won't reach the shower of the second floor. Had to take a bath on the first floor of the loft, where heater works just find.

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Anyway, let's head up and check the bedroom! 


Sama din daw si Aki, hehe!

Before the bedroom is another small room to my left, which is an office space! Wasn't able to use this area, but a much appreciated feature especially for those who will stay here longer.



Don't know what I am doing here too, haha! Checking the first floor area from the office:

Aki and Ninang Ava.

The cozy bedroom is also well-designed. It also has a closet with robes, hotel slippers, laundry bag and a hair dryer.



And, as mentioned earlier, it has its own toilet and shower room aside from the one downstairs. Both with complete towels and toiletries such as dental care sets, body wash, shampoo, etc.


  

Last but not the least, here's the breakfast place located at the ground floor of the hotel, next to the reception area. Salads, breads and fruits area served buffet style, while you can choose your main dish from a menu. For vegetarians, they have vegetable curry or oatmeal. For drinks, they have juices and coffee. Everything's delicious and served fresh!





 KL Serviced Residences is managed by Hospitality Innovators, Inc. (HII), a team that specializes in the management and operation of properties such as hotels, serviced residences, condotels, residential condominiums and resorts. 

I didn't realize that I've stayed in some of their properties including Azumi Boutique Hotel in Alabang and ACEA Subic Bay. They all have something in common, including beautiful interiors and great service from their staff! Might as well add that my stay here felt safe even when we are all girls in the room, because of the 24-hours security and reception service at the lobby.

KL Serviced Residences is located in 117 Gamboa Street Legaspi Village, Makati City.
Follow them on Facebook and their Instagram @klservicedresidences for more information and updates, or visit http://www.kltower.ph to book for your next staycation! 

Can't wait to go back with my family. ❤

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    SUMMER IN SEOUL: Things To Do When It's Too Hot In Korea!

    June 17, 2019, 5:54 am
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    Just a disclaimer, this trip was actually during spring, thus the jackets and layering. But I realized that since hotter days are coming to Korea soon, it will be nice to feature spots ideal for those who are going to Seoul during summer.

    Although it's my 8th or 9th time in Korea, I still look forward to this part of my trip whenever I get to go to Seoul. May kilig padin talaga! It never gets old for me, and there will always be something new or different that I would want to try. And with that, I always make sure that I have at least 1-2 full days dedicated to Seoul in my Korea itinerary.

    For this trip, I went to a mix of Kdrama locations, cafes, and a museum. If it's also your nth time in Seoul, and have already been to most touristy locations, here's a short list of the stuff I did just last spring. They are locations that you can go to when it's too hot or too cold outside. If you want more tips and information on my past Korea trips, you can check all my Korea travel blog posts here.


    Shop and Take Pictures in CHUU Myeongdong

    I've seen this store so many times in my favorite Korean vloggers Qjin and Qwon. CHUU is a bit similar to Stylenanda for its cool aesthetics. It's so hard to resist a store that is very hip and Instagram worthy! I went to the Myeongdong branch on my first day in Seoul. You'll easily find the full pink building with the sign that says "chuu supermarket".


    Heading in, it really does feel like you're inside a hip grocery store! But instead of food, they sell clothes, makeup, accessories and other trinkets. They are also known for their -5KG jeans, said to miraculously make you look like you've lost some weight just by wearing them!!




    The stairs to lead to their photo zone! No one's there when I went, but unfortunately I also had no one to take my pictures! 😂

    I love that majority of these Korean fashion stores encourage their clients to take photos inside the store, coz usually it's not allowed. They have these Instagram worthy stations and backdrops that work as instant marketing strategy. The more people pose and post their cute store--the more it will drive buyers in! I actually learned about Chuu and Stylenanda because of social media.



    Insert me here:

    I love that they never run out of cool interior ideas!
      

    Wow, they even have -5KG Skinny Cream!

    Art Appreciation: A Van Gogh-Themed Interactive Museum in Dongdaemun

    Another indoor activity discovery via Klook! I've worked with Klook several times last year, but honestly, it's also my go-to app to discover other places and activities during my travels with or without sponsorship! L'Atelier Museum is under Activities in Seoul, and ticket price is only Php 735 (vs Php 1050 when you just walk-in).

     
    This is definitely a highlight of my 2019 spring in Seoul. I am a big fan of Van Gogh and his art, and didn't know such museum exists in Korea! They have an area where you can color some of Van Gogh's paintings, catch a musical show and a hologram show, or just dine in the cafe that looks like you're inside a Van Gogh painting!

    The 2 shows I was able to watch were both informative and enjoyable. I learned a whole lot more about my favorite artist, and although it's in Korean, they have an app that you can open and listen to for the translations (make sure to bring earphones!).

     
    Photo zones everywhere! There are moving paintings, snow machine, and corners reminiscent of 19th century France. It was fun to take photos in every corner of this museum, and it's not yet over-hyped so there weren't too many people with me during my tour. I think I only encountered about 5 to guests during my stay here.




    Van Gogh's painting of his bedroom:

    To an actual model of his bedroom!

    It's as if I spent 2 hours hopping from one of Vincent's painting to the next!
       
    Of course, the souvenir shop at the end of the museum sells different Van Gogh merch that you can think of! From neckties, mugs, bags, postcards, etc.
     
    L'Atelier is located inside Hyundai City Outlet Dongdaemun.
    They are open all year round, from 10:00am to 10:00pm (Last call 7:00pm)
    Just take the subway to Dongdaemun Station, then Exit 8. Search L'Atelier via Google Maps.
    Visit http://light-atelier.com/eng/index.php for more information, and book via Klook app for discounted tickets.

     2D Cafe in Yeonnam-dong

    Another Instagram hype is this 2D Cafe in Seoul. I had difficulty in locating this because they recently changed their address. It is now called Cafe 223-14. Make sure to screenshot this if ever you plan to visit this unique cafe in Seoul!



    I love the concept of the place. Everyone who enters the cafe get wide eyed, and you'll really hear the ooohs and ahhhs. I was trigger happy with my camera! Even their cups and plates look like drawings. If you've seen the KDrama W Two World, it's as if you're inside a comic book! 


    I asked help from one of the customers to have my picture taken in one of the corners of the cafe. ❤



    Cafe 223-14 or CAFE Yeonnam-dong can be reached via Hongik University Station Exit 3. Then search and follow Cafe 223-14 on your Google Maps.

    Harry Potter Themed Cafe in Seoul

    Last stop for this post! Another cute cafe in Seoul is this Hogwarts themed coffee shop called King's Cross. It is not a Harry Potter registered or affiliated, but you will definitely find elements and references from the book inside and outside the cafe. There's no denying where they got their inspiration from!



    They have a lot of photo zones the moment you reach the cafe's entrance. These areas are for free, but you have to purchase a drink so you can go up and check out the other areas of the cafe (that's 5 floors of witchcraft and wizardry!). I made sure to chill here to make my long walk more worthwhile.





    The dining areas similar to the Hogwart Great Hall. Honestly, you'll really go and dine here for the experience more than the food.

    Had a pretzel and juice. Was supposed to just order food coz it's my nth cafe for the day, but learned that they require 1 drink per customer. 😅

    There's a dining area where you can try on the wizard robe, scarf, hat, and wand! Thank you to another tourist who kindly helped me take my pictures! :) Super bait nya, "I gotchu!" sha ng "I gotchu!" hehehe. 😀


      


    King’s Cross is located in 417 Seogyo-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea. Nearest station is Hapjeong (Line 2 or 6). Then just search King's Cross Harry Potter Cafe via Google Maps.


    Anyone heading to Seoul this summer? Hope I gave you something to add to your itinerary! Stay hydrated, Seoul during summer gets really hot! (sharing my blog post from last year, August!)

    Let me know your favorite/s from this list! ❤

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    What's New? | June 2019

    June 19, 2019, 7:28 pm
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    Been out and about lately and discovered new brands and products from fashion and food categories. Sharing them to you below!



    Long before Instagram, we used to write long blog posts with our OOTD photos on it. Just one outfit, with varying angles, poses, and sometimes including close up shots of the "details"--haha! The golden age of fashion blogging.

    Trying to take it old school for this post by starting with my most recent OOTD for an event and meeting day.


    Top from Adidas, Pants from Uniqlo, Sneakers from Fila, Bag from Kipling

    Lavender is my current favorite color for summer 2019! My personality does not really fit pastels, but I have days when I am attracted to pinks and lavenders especially during spring! The season has long gone, but I am still magnetized by these soft colors. I think wearing a lavender top with the Adidas logo balances this supposed girly look!

    To match my navy Astro cap (since the theme for the event is Kpop), I also carried a dark denim Kipling Art Mini bag which I got during their SM Aura store launch.

    FASHION

    Kipling Opens In SM Aura, New Global Vision "Live Light"

    I attended the launch of the newest Kipling store in the Philippines last June 6 at the SM Aura Premier. It now has a very artsy and more inviting look, showcasing Kipling's new logo, and displaying their latest and classic collections. The Kipling Art Mini bag is one of their latest designs, which I've been using almost everyday since!

    You will also find an area where you can customize the accessory of your Kipling bag in the store--true to the brand's global vision of individuality and self-expression. This just added to the reasons why I love the brand, other than carrying products that are well-known for their durability, lightweight material, and travel-friendly features!

    Btw, Kipling’s SM Aura store will be just the first of many branches that will get a makeover! 









    Shop For A Cause at LoveHopeFaith 

    Another new acquisitions are watches from the local advocacy brand LoveHopeFaith.

    My first encounter with this brand was in bazaars where they sell watches with different strap colors. I think it was the Christmas season, and bazaaristas bought LoveHopeFaith watches for gifting.

    Fast-forward to 2019, LoveHopeFaith still thrives as a business with a heart. They donate 50% of their net proceeds to cancer patients. This more than ever has a special place in my heart, as I've seen families and friends fight the Big C.

    Help me support LoveHopeFaith's advocacy to fund cancer patients by shopping at http://lhfg.ph, or share their website and Instagram page @lovehopefaithgroup on your social media pages. Thank you! ❤






    FOOD

    Serenitea's Cake Inspired Beverages

    Meanwhile, in the food category, have you tried any of the drinks from the new Serenitea Cookie Brulee line? These are "cake inspired" beverages, which are said to be trendy right now!



    Cookie Supreme Matcha, Cookie Brulee Milk Tea, and Cookie Supreme Milk Tea

    The Cookie Supreme Milk Tea is my favorite! Very thick, creamy, and luscious. Make sure to request for 0% sugar coz it's already sweet, but definitely a must-try since these will only be served till end of June! 

    Inkigayo Sandwich is Now In Manila!

    The Kpop idols’ favorite sandwich? Finally tried Korea’s famous Inkigayo Sandwich coz they are finally here in Manila!

    I heard so much about this sandwich (mix of egg sandwich, potato salad, and strawberry jam!) as the favorite of Blackpink, BTS, Monsta X, and even Astro (yasss). They are currently in Eastwood, but the food truck (which also reminds me of mga pa-foodtruck for Korean actors when they have a new show hehehe) will also be roving around the Metro!

    For the schedule and next stops, follow them on instagram at @inkigayosandwich.ph.






    My verdict? It is very unique, I actually like the combination of the jam and the egg sandwich! I like the creamy part, but I prefer if the jam is thicker too! Not sure if that will work as well, hehe! I must get another sandwich when they go nearer to my area (south)! 😋



    Not sure if this blog format for events and happenings is okay with you! Let me know in the comment box below if you have other suggestions, and what else is new out there that you think I should try! ❤

    Have a great day. :)

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    Outdoor Art Museum Under The Bridge | Featured in Park Bo Gum and Song Hye Kyo's Korean Drama Encounter

    June 20, 2019, 7:00 pm
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    I only went to 2 Kdrama locations during my recent Seoulo trip, and one of them is from Park Bo Gum and Song Hye Kyo's 2018-2019 series Encounter. 

    It would have been nice to visit colorful and lively locations from the first episode of this aesthetically pleasing Korean Drama, but since we can't fly to Cuba now, this is the next best thing!

    One of the Seoul scenes that struck me the most was when Kim Jin-hyeok (Park Bo-gum) brought Cha Soo-hyun (Song Hye-gyo) to an "outdoor art gallery". At first she was reluctant that there's any art gallery that she does not know of in Seoul, but surprise surprise!



    There really is an "art exhibition" literally under the bridge! ❤



    Next three photos are screenshots from the Kdrama:




    In real life, the outdoor art gallery is located at the Hongnam Bridge of Seoul. On my last full day, I decided to spend my morning in this park. And just like the other parks I've been to in Seoul, I enjoyed just people watching. Locals working out, biking, walking briskly to their work, or even sprinting since the grounds are padded and comfortable. I even heard opera music in between my walk, they have speakers in some areas of the park so you have background music when you exercise or just rest in one of the benches.

    You can also appreciate nature from just walking under the Hongnam Bridge, with the Hongje Stream running just beside you. Super relaxing!



    Walk further, and you'll finally see the artworks displayed on each pillars of the bridge. There are reading materials on some points, but they are in Hangul. 



    Finally saw the highlighted artwork from Encounter. ❤

    How To Get There:

    Ride the Seoul subway, and get off Gajwa Station Exit 4. Prepare for a long walk (around 20mins)! If you see a bridge on your left side, that's it! Input 37.574984, 126.925292 on your Google Maps so you won't get lost. Just walk and walk. Make sure to study the view from the back of this pillar (the round structure with red roof) so you'll know you're on the right painting. Good luck!



    To those seeing Park Bo Gum in Manila for his fan meeting, enjoy! ❤

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    Money Talk: 2TradeAsia Allows You To Invest In Stocks ONLINE!

    July 1, 2019, 7:31 am
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    I am sharing what keeps me busy during my down time because this (and YOU!) are important to me!

    I’m sure you’ve heard this so many times but putting your money on the bank is okay, but growth will be slow. My ultimate financial goal is to make money even while sleeping.. and this is possible through stocks!



    WHAT ARE STOCKS AND TRADING?

    It is simply co-owning companies you are already familiar with or the products you use. Why do these huge companies sell a part of their stocks? So they can expand more, and grow their business.    

    ABOUT 2TradeAsia

    Before, you really have to go to Manila Stocks Exchange to buy and sell stocks. It is time consuming, and very intimidating. Good thing I learned about 2TradeAsia, an online platform for trading stocks. Now more than ever, it’s easier to invest with stockbrokers like 2TradeAsia.


    Incorporated in early 2000, 2TradeAsia.com is a pioneer in online stock trading with a mission to develop an innovative and efficient online investment solution in the country. The company's mission is to TRADE.

    T - Tailor-fit services according to investors' objective.
    R - Reach-out in promoting investing across Asia's securities market beginning with the Philippines 
    A - Amplify the best investment platform with innovative trading. 
    D - Deliver relevant & up-to-date research.
    E - Exemplify our team's commitment to excellence by upholding highest market integrity & compliance.

    Read more about 2TradeAsia on their website: https://www.2tradeasia.com.

    WHAT I LIKE ABOUT 2TradeAsia

    1) You can access it via website or app, so you can trade stocks wherever and whenever (during commutes, while waiting for your friend, or even when traveling!). Having no time or no access is not an excuse now! 

    2) 2Trade holds FREE seminars on the stock market in Makati! They make stocks and trading simple and fun even for someone like me who gets easily intimidated by money and numbers. I actually enjoyed their seminar, and learned that you can do stocks even when you can’t read charts and just understand a company’s story! 

    3) It won’t eat up your time! 2Trade app features PRICE ALERTS on your phone so you don’t have to always be glued to your screen to find out if numbers are high or low! 

    4) Friendly team! Of course, if you want to learn and get involved in something so serious, you wouldn’t expect that the team behind 2Trade will be so light and accommodating! I wasn’t afraid to ask questions, or clarify things I don’t understand during the seminar. They are also very responsive on their FB Messenger if you have questions.


    Honestly, more than making money, my goal is to not work forever AND STILL live life to the fullest. And of course, to give back to my parents so they can enjoy life as well free from financial worries!  

    Want to learn stocks too? Book your free seminar now by messaging them on IG @ or Facebook! They can explain everything more than I can so I highly recommend it, nothing to lose and no pressures since it’s free! Let’s start being stocks literate together! 

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    Cha Eun Woo Pilgrimage: Sulbing, Fantagio, Your ID Is Gangnam Beauty Location

    July 2, 2019, 5:04 am
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    My list of Kdrama locations got shorter during my recent Korea travels. Maybe it's because I am done with most of the dramas on my list, and kokonti nalang din recent dramas I've watched compared to the last years. I don't want to go to locations just because setting sya sa isang Kdrama if it has no significance to me--like hindi naman nakakaiyak yung scene na shinoot don, or di ko naman naalala kung anong nanyari sa lugar na yun. This time, I also try to focus more on other things when I go to Korea. 

    I go there for the different seasons, to discover and learn about a new city, to shop, to try cute cafes or new museums, etc. But of course, my itinerary wouldn't be fully complete without a little Korean pop culture on the side--whether it is Kdrama or Kpop related. For my recent one last Spring of 2019, I decided to go on a little Cha Eun Woo Pilgrimage.


    Sulbing

    I started following ASTRO since I finished My ID Is Gangnam Beauty. I got so shamelessly addicted to Cha Eun Woo, so I checked out his former shows and guestings--including The Best Hit and his part in On The Border. Of course, I also watched ASTRO's To Be Continued, music videos, and behind the scene vids. I am not sure when it ended, but nagka phase talaga ako when I always open Youtube for old ASTRO videos before heading to sleep! 😂

    I think first time ko din nagamit yung follow hashtag feature on Instagram, when I follow #ChaEunWoo and #Astro. I think it's through this hashtag where I discovered some of ASTRO's latest endorsements including SULBING.

    I've tried this bingsoo place na before in Myeongdong, and I know how big this brand is in Korea so imagine na sobrang proud-fan moment for me when I entered the cafe and saw ASTRO all over their walls and counters. 💜





    Of course I have to try what Eun Woo is holding in the ad campaign, which is the Injeolmi (인절미), a soft rice cake generously coated in sweet bean powder. First time to try traditional Korean flavor for my bingsoo coz I always go for mango! 


    How To Get Here: 
    Get off Myeongdong Station, and search Sulbing on your Google Maps. They are located at the 3rd floor so make sure to look UP when you pass by the Arirang Hotdog stand!


    Fantagio

    A failed attempt is to go to Fantagio (management of ASTRO) and dine in their cafe. They were closed that day, huhu! The establishment is a long walk from the subway station, so it was frustrating to just look at the office from the outside. Oh well! I took a few pictures outside Fantagio, and then headed off.



    Saw an ASTRO cake! Will be back, Fantagio! 


    How To Get Here:

    Café Fantagio is located at the Yeoksam-dong area of Seoul. Nearest station is Yeoksam, Line 2, Exit 1. Input Cafe Fantagio on your Google Maps and follow.


    Stairs from My ID Is Gangnam Beauty

    I can't think of any significant location in my recent favorite Kdrama than the staircase near where Kang Mi-Rae lives! I can still remember the kilig when Do Kyung Seok waits for Mi-Rae so they can walk to school together. 😍

    As usual, any shooting location that is not a mall or a cafe is a long walk from the subway station. As I neared the staircase, I saw a truck and a car parked right in front of it! Locals were also just chilling there, it was hard to take pictures and make it look as if I was just casually passing by and found the stairs cute--HAHA! Halatang sinadya ko yung hagdan e, lels. 😂



    Screenshots from the Korean Drama:



    My one-time self-timer shot on top of the stairs, malayo from the locals hanging out hehe.


    Selfie nalang ang labanan! 😂

    How To Get Here:

    Called the Staircase Samseongyo-ro 18ga-gil in real life, the nearest subway station is Bomun Station,  Exit 2. Expect a long walk from the train station, just copy and paste 37.587609, 127.013097 on your Google Maps and follow.


    Billboards

    Last but not the least, these are unintentional Cha Eun Woo sightings while I was in Seoul. Since he's a growing star because of My ID Is Gangnam Beauty, brands are taking notice and are getting him as endorser! My favorites are the moving LG ad for their VR, and, of course, this Pure Vitamin C skincare ad in Myeongdong Station na araw-araw kong nadadaanan sa awa ng Diyos (hehehe!).



    Note: Still on my list that I wasn't able to accomplish for this trip
    - Visit Atelier Cologne shop in Gangnam
    - Watch ASTRO live in Korea
    - Attend one of ASTRO's brand fan meetings
    - Check out Bershka while they still have ASTRO as endorsers

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    On Jewelries and Fashion Accessories

    July 2, 2019, 11:27 pm
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    Getting hooked on simple jewelries

    After years of just wearing a standard black watch with my outfits, I am currently getting into jewelries again. I like necklaces and bracelets, and sometimes I also wear a simple but pretty dangling earrings to compliment my look. 

    I only want a few pieces of jewellery that are meaningful to me, and so I am also looking into getting cheap custom jewelry with either my name or initials on it. Like the standard black watch, I am sure a personalized piece will be something that I'll wear everyday and keep for a long long time!





    How to maintain you silver jewelries

    Since jewelries are in close contact to my skin, and I sweat a lot because of our weather, I researched for ways on how to clean necklace. Here are some tips that I might try!

    1) Soak in coke or tea for 12 hours.

    2) Scrub with toothpaste and toothbrush.

    3) Wipe with silver polishing cloth.

    (Check link above for more tips)

    Where to get your jewelries

    I love getting my jewelries during my travels. It's an instant souvenir that I get to wear even when I am back home. It also tells more story. Seeing a jewellery I bought in India or Korea will bring back good memories from the trip. 

    I also recommend buying during special occasions, or when big moments come into your life like when you win something or achieve something. I love checking out jewelries sold online so there's no pressures of buying right away compared to being in an actual store.

    Lastly, you can also create your own jewelries. Making a piece with your own hands give it more meaning, the jewellery becomes even more special. Here are some tips on how to make name necklace!
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    Lounge Life: My Experience in Changi Airport's Lounge

    July 3, 2019, 5:11 am
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    I think it was 2 years ago when I slept in Singapore's airport. It was a layover for a red eye flight to Myanmar. We had few hours in Changi International Airport, so we took our sweet time. I remembered having late dinner at the 24-hour food court, riding the empty connecting Skytrain of Changi Airport, and then finally spotting empty chairs of a closed cafe which we assigned as our "beds" for the night.

    It wasn't a comfortable sleep, but we survived. More importantly, it was a story that won me a blog award last year! Haha!

    This year, I earned two free flights from my work with the airline SCOOT. I picked Chiang Mai because it's a place that my younger sister Cea had been raving since her own trip with her friends. I invited Ava and Paul to join me, and glad that they were super game to travel! Paul really wanted to hug elephants, while Ava naman said she needed the MomCation (Mom Vacation) which was perfect at that time since the kids were on summer school break.



    With little prep time, I was so excited when our small group finally gathered at the NAIA 1. I was thinking, eto na tuloy na tuloy na talaga! I took charge of everything for this trip, including the itinerary and accommodation. It also includes planning on where we're staying during our midnight layover in Singapore.

    I did an online research on where we can stay na open 24/7 (since our arrival is almost 12 midnight). This time, sleeping in random couches is out of our option. Our criteria is a place where we can sleep AND shower. There are airport hotels, but they are either out of our budget or already fully booked on our travel date. We ended up exploring the airport lounge option.

    The empty Changi Airport at 12mn:


    The night before our flight I already searched for the rates of the different lounge in Changi. There are a lot! Pwede naman syang walk-in but may onting fear for me na what if fully booked sila bigla tomorrow night, parang yung Korea airport jjimjilbang experience ko. I cannot imagine letting down my group! Cinareer ko talaga pagiging tour guide nila e, hahaha!

    So I checked out their websites, then Agoda. I am not sure how I landed via my Klook app, but swerte na meron din silang Changi lounge offerings na discounted! My credit card won't work in some apps including Klook and Airbnb, so minsan over-the-counter ako nagbabayad ng activities. For the airport lounge, triny ko lang naman if magkano lalabas for 3 persons and if mag pupush yung card ko ....and then it did! Haha! Swerte nadin coz may promo code yung Klook at that time, so nadiscountan pa kami from the discounted rate na! 😄

    Here's the Klook Changi Airport Lounge listing we booked:


    What To Expect 
    (according to the app)

    Enjoy VIP treatment at Plaza Premium Lounge or TGM at Changi Airport. The only independent lounge at Changi Airport Terminal 1 Departure Hall, Plaza Premium Lounge promises a relaxing wait while in between flights. Enjoy unlimited food and hot or chilled beverages, including the signature Singaporean dishes like Singapore Laksa and Singapore Chicken Rice. Each lounge has comfortable couches, free WiFi, work stations and international TV channels, magazines and newspapers. Aside from that, you can also watch the chef as he prepares the dishes in front of you. The lounge also offers three private resting suites, six shower rooms (one is wheelchair accessible), two VIP rooms, massage and nail services - all of which you can avail of at extra cost. If you're only waiting in the airport for a short amount of time, you can also just choose to stay at TGM, where you can get unlimited food and drinks, and have access to the internet, international TV channels, magazines and newspaper - the perfect place to stay if you're looking to work before your flight.


    Upon booking via the app, you can choose between 3 hours or 6 hours of stay. Since our flight is still around 9am the next day, we booked for the 6 hours although bitin padin sya sa waiting time namin, pwede nadin. Price is around Php 1800+ per head.

    Please note that you also have to pick the date when you'll be using your voucher upon booking.

    For the listing I posted above, you also have the option to stay at the Plaza Premium Lounge located at the 3F of Departure Area in Terminal 1, or the BLOSSOM - SATS & Plaza Premium Lounge located at the 2F of Terminal 4 Departure Area. Both are open 24 hours. We weren't able to access terminal 4 because our plane is assigned to Terminal 2 and I think only T4 of Changi is strict na dapat may T4 flight ka to have access in the area. But for T1 to T3, we were able to access so we stayed just at their Plaza Premium Lounge in T1.

     We took the Skytrain from T2 to T1:

    During layovers, we don't have to get na our big luggages coz it goes straight to our final destination. But since we're expecting an overnight layover, we had our backpacks or small luggages with us for our toiletries, skincare, chargers, and change of clothes. Sobrang ready naming lahat, nakaka proud travel mom moment haha!




    Information booths are open and can be spotted here and there at the airport, so we were able to navigate our way to the Plaza Premium Lounge.


    The Lounge

    You can choose from these comfortable couches:




    Family-sized couches:

    Or these small semi-private cubicles:


    We picked these tiny cubicles so we can have a private space where we can take out our things, charge our gadgets, and sleep.





    You can also pay separate fee for the VIP area (more enclosed space)


    Or a small room that has a bed:

    The Dining Area

    Here's a glimpse of Terminal 1 Plaza Premium Lounge's dining area:




    You can get canned soda, tea, juices, and bottled water in the ref anytime you want:

    Salad station where they served really fresh ingredients. You can also request for vegetarian meal or a hot meal (usually laksa) at the counter.



    Coffee and juices, instant noodles, breads and fruits:

     They also offer these nuts and chips, with red wine! I only availed this during our transit back to Manila, and mas naka sleep ako when I had the wine hehehe.



    Toilet area and shower rooms are separate. Toilet for men and women are segregated and can easily be accessed (no need for keys) : 


    Meanwhile, I think they only have 6 shower rooms in this lounge. You have to sign up at the front desk to get a key, and then you have to return the key again once you're done so the maintenance can clean up for next user.

    If there's no shower room available at the moment, receptionist will give you a round buzzing pager thing (parang yung sa Coffee Bean) so you'll know when slots are available again. Since group kami, we can also take turns sa isang shower room so we don't have to wait for the cleaner to finish before we can enter.


    Amazed ako sa shower room nila because it has everything I needed. A hair dryer, a large towel, toilet with bidet, a box of toiletries with tooth brush, toothpaste, comb, cotton buds, and shower cap, and a hot and cold shower with shampoo and body wash. If biglaan lahat nito, wala akong kailangang dalhin or alalahanin!






    What I Like About The Airport Lounge:

    1) Overflowing food and drinks 24/7! We were able to have our dinner and breakfast here.
    2) Free drinking water-- mahal ang bottled water sa SG!
    3) Unli showers (with complete amenities, including towels and toiletries). They also clean the shower rooms every after use.
    4) Different couch options: Semi private cubicles, seats where you can stretch, etc.
    5) Electrical sockets in ALL seats / cubicles
    6) Free and fast WiFi
    7) LED screens to show flight status
    8) Safe and clean
    9) Free wine! ❤

    What I Don't Like About The Airport Lounge:

    1) Medyo malayo / mahirap hanapin (but this makes it more private, safe, secluded)
    2) We only had one lounge option since we can't enter the one in T4.
    3) We need to wait for the key to avail the shower room.
    4) Nahirapan ako mag sleep on our first night, since it's a lounge most people were awake so they won't miss a flight. It gets noisy sometimes, especially sa dining area.
    5) It's a bit pricey, almost same price as small hotel room if you add up yung ginastos naming tatlo.


    Overall, I will still recommend Changi's lounge for its convenience (and for the experience!). If neat freak ka, sobrang okay dito! I think just the thought of overflowing food, coffee, and water, plus the chance to take hot showers (I showered pa twice--before bed, and before we left the next day! Haha!), sobrang nasulit na namin yung binayaran namin! Actually, baka nga nalugi pa sila samin, hahaha! 😂






    How do you deal with long layovers, especially ones that involve overnight at the airport? What's your most favorite airport in the world?


    Watch more here: 

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    Summer In Chiang Mai Part 1 | How To Go, Where To Stay, Budget and Itinerary, Etc.

    July 5, 2019, 11:23 pm
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    More than a month has passed since my summer in Chiang Mai with two of my closest friends. We decided to go to this city because none of us has been on this side of Thailand, and it is something different from the usual places we've been to recently (plus, Ava needed the MomCation, and Paul wants to hug elephants irl!).

    First of all, I am so happy to travel again! I enjoyed planning this trip for my friends coz they're all very game with whatever I present to them. Budget hostel? G! Klook activities instead of pure DIY? G! It made creating our itinerary easier and more fun coz everybody's so open to any ideas! Walang stress or diva, hehehe.

    So here's the first part of our wonderful wonderful Chiang Mai trip! ❤ Was supposed to just post one blog entry for this, but there's just so much photos to share! Haha!


    How To Go To Chiang Mai

    Correct me if I'm wrong, I think there are no direct Manila to Chiang Mai flights, all airlines require a layover. My sister took Thai Airways 2 years ago, and they had to transfer planes from BKK for their Chiang Mai flight. 

    Meanwhile, my friends and I flew via SCOOT, a budget Singaporean airline. It has a layover in Changi International Airport, and on both to and from Manila, red eye flights sya so we had to sleep in the airport. 

    Not a bit worried though, Changi is one of the most comfortable airports in the world! They have paid lounges and free areas where you can sleep and pass the time. Read more on our Changi Airport Lounge Experience, isa syang adventure on its own! 




    Where To Stay In Chiang Mai

    Here's how I look for accommodations anywhere I go in the world. First, I read up on blog recommendations on what specific AREA is the best place for tourists to stay. I picked Old City Chiang Mai because they have the tourist sites and food areas here. Then I go to Agoda and search for this specific area. At least the choices are now narrowed down instead of just typing "Chiang Mai".

    Here are my personal criteria in picking my accommodation other than of course having affordable rates:

    1) It must be in a great location, central, near main tourist spots and transportation systems. Okay lang na mas mahal ng onti.

    2) Should be near shopping or food district, para long days can end in the neighborhood na.

    3) Should have good reviews (at least mga 5 na nagsasabi they had a great stay in the place). I always trust actual traveller comments in Agoda.

    Again, it doesn't have to be fancy. Free breakfast is just a bonus for me, but not part of my criteria coz pwede naman bumili sa 7Eleven. I also make sure safe yung place! For Chiang Mai, I think what matched all these points is DD&B Hostel.



    What I like about DD&B Hostel

    1) PRICE! Deal breaker talaga! For our FIVE NIGHTS in Chiang Mai we only paid PHP 6145 IN TOTAL! Or Php 2000-ish per head, nakaka loka!

    2) LOCATION. Our place is only around 20 minutes away from Chiang Mai International Airport! This came to our advantage on our last day when we had to take a half-day tour to go to the Karen Long Neck Village, after a miscommunication from our prior tour.

    It is also walking distance to restaurants and a night food market, and quite a number of establishments offering Thai massage.

    There's a river bank just across our hostel, na sobrang ganda especially in the morning! Wish we had more time to just walk around this area.

    Food spots around our neighborhood. We made sure to eat in a different resto every night:




    Temples here and there, spotted when we look for dinner places:

    3) Room is nice and big! I think solo namin yung guesthouse at that time, so we were able to use the common toilet and bath ng kami kami lang hehehe. Aircon works well too, super perfect place to rest.

    Ava taking a photo of the door to our room:

    Our three-bed room, which can fit up to four persons:

    Paul took over the bunk beds:

    While Ava and I shared the huge bed:

    We have a small "balcony" where we hang our wet clothes:

    4) Staff are also very nice and polite! We always greet each other Good Morning, or hello! Nakaka miss din sila, hehe!

    5) No free breakfast inclusions on the website, but they still have free instant coffee, water, and bananas on the pantry which we availed! We prepare our own meals in the mini kitchen every breakfast. They also have a cafe on the ground floor, where we were able to try Thai instant noodles and Thai beer. Ang sarap din mag hangout sa common area / cafe nila. 😊

    My besties, super sipag every morning heating breads and preparing our coffee!


    The hostel's cafe:

    Our every morning and every night sitch:


    I think it was on our second night when we tried the Chang beer and some Thai instant noodles! 


    6) Ok ang security. Front door is closed at a certain time at night.


    What I don't like about DD&B Hostel

    1) It is not super gaduper clean, especially the toilet and bath. Medyo maagiw sya. May night din na nakakita si Ava ng ipis sa isang shower room (buti nalang hindi ako ang naka kita sobrang takot ako sa ipis hahaha), ako naman nakakita ng moth. Iniisip ko nalang na nasa province din kasi kami kaya hindi maiiwasan ang crawlies.

    Right across our room is the separate toilet room + toilet and 2 shower rooms. Wala naman kami kashare coz it's off-season.





    2) Not so near ang convenience store. You have to cross the busy streets to get to the nearest 7Eleven. 

    3) Medyo mahirap din sya i-pin sa Grab. Usually yung mga katabing establishments ang naseasearch. Mabuti nalang GRAB driver din yun hostel owner namin, so most of our malling trips sa kaniya na kami sumasakay. Even our ride to the airport heading home na sobrang buzzer beater na kami coz we still came from a tour, our hostel owner took charge! She closed the hostel, and told us to hop in her car! 😁

    Overall though, it was still a very pleasant stay and I will recommend DD&B Hostel for Chiang Mai budget travellers. 


    Estimate Budget + Itinerary

    Sharing a straight to the point version of our itinerary for Chiang Mai so I can add our expenses for this trip. Will also be posting more about these activities and my personal take on them on my next blogs. 😊




    DAY 0: FLIGHT DAY!

    Airport Tax - Php 1620
    Flight from Manila to Changi Airport Terminal 2 (Round trip ticket via SCOOT around Php 15,000)
    Sleep in airport lounge - Php 1800

    DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN CHIANG MAI
     Flight to Chiang Mai International Airport
    Withdraw Pocket Money in airport - Php 10,000 (breakfast, snacks, dinner, Grab, shopping)
    Check in Hotel: DD&B Hostel - Php 2000 per head for 5 nights
    Dinner in North Gate Night Market

    DAY 2: ELEPHANT SANCTUARY
     Elephant Day Care at Chiang Mai Mountain Sanctuary (PHP 2416)

    DAY 3: THAI COOKING CLASS
     Mama Noi Thai Cookery School Chiang Mai (PHP 1233)

    DAY 4: TEMPLES DAY
     White Temple, Blue Temple, and the Black House (PHP 1833)

    DAY 5: NATURE DAY
     Doi Inthanon National Park (PHP 1800)

    DAY 6: HALF DAY TOUR + HEADING HOME
    Secret Temple + Karen Long Neck Tribe PHP 750
    Flight to Changi Terminal 2, sleep again in airport lounge - Php 1800

    DAY 7: ARRIVAL IN MNL

    Estimate Total Expenses = Php 40,252 

    Note: We got promo codes for the Klook activities, so hindi talaga Php 40k yun total gastos namin and this is just an estimate. Also, if you are not into shopping hindi naman aabot ng ganito yung gastos--but ako kasi, makaharap lang sa skincare and clothes nag sasara na yung EQ ko hehehe!


    Outside Our Itinerary

    Sharing pictures of the other stuff we did after every tour. What I like about our Chiang Mai schedule is that after our activity for the day, we still have lots of time to go malling or check out a night market. The nearest mall to our hostel is MAYA, a recommendation of our guesthouse owner. It has restaurants, beauty and fashion shops, and right across the mall are several markets from fashion, food, to art! 

    Here's a picture of the riverbank just across our hostel:

    Night market scene (food and clothes) during our last night in Chiang Mai. Paul bought a lot of canvass kimonos!


     We also rode the tuktuk twice, from the mall going back to our hostel. The drivers have Waze so madali lang ang navigation.

    Inside a beauty store called Boots with Ava, para syang Watsons natin. My bessy and I love to try out new skincare stuff, and we also bought these tube inhalers for pasalubong:



    Paul's weakness: There's also an authentic DC store in this mall!


    Ang dami din random stores with unique finds! Wish I got this transparent bucket hat:


    One of my favorite discovery is an art lane right across the mall. They have small quirky shops offering local crafts from accessories, clothes, to stationeries.



    Dito nabaliw si Ava hehehe! Obvious from this picture, kahit hindi na nakatingin kung ano ano nalang dinadampot e hehehe!




    I think what I loved most about this Chiang Mai trip is that it is more peaceful than my usual busy city trips, or compared to when visiting Bangkok. Dagdag nyo pa na we don't have internet connection except when we're back in the hostel, so talagang naclear yung mind ko for ilang days. 

    Walking outside our hostel, albeit the rush of cars, we had a nice view of the river bank, fire tree branches stooping down the river as if scooping water with its leaves. A core memory for me was one morning just around sunrise. Ava and I had to cross from our hostel to the river bank to the other street for a quick 7Eleven run, just to get breads for breakfast and (TMI) sanitary pads haha!

    I saw the sun rays reflected on the river, the sun just peeping in between houses, trees, and temples that we passed by on our way to the convenience store. Sobrang ganda that I had to stop and take a snap from my phone! I was on the verge of bursting into a random song, or maybe even twirling a little just because the simple moment felt just like that: A carefree, happy morning in a beautiful city called Chiang Mai. ❤


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    Ethical or Unethical? | Some Activities That We Did In Chiang Mai Turned Out To Be Controversial

    July 8, 2019, 12:06 am
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    I was thinking of how I should blog the activities that we did in Chiang Mai differently, and not just present them point by point like I always did before. Yesterday during mass, I had an aha moment when I realized that some of the stuff that were included in our tour turned out to be controversial (most of which I found out when I got home na, huhuhu). 

    Instead of steering clear from this topic, here's a post dedicated to just that: How do we travel ethically? How do we know if an activity or tour supports abusive behaviours for money? 


    A lot of the touristy things that I did during my travels, even the ones outside Chiang Mai, have underlying ethical issues that I wouldn't know of at that time if not after seeing hate comments from another traveler's post of same or similar activity. More often than not, we continue taking part in these tours because we're not aware na may issue pala ito. 

    It's a very sensitive topic for me as someone who is just starting out with her travelling life. Ngayon lang din nagiging woke ang mga tao, and although sometimes annoying, minsan may good side din to. As someone wise once said, don't hate, educate! I'll appreciate any input from you guys so we can learn from each other and revise our future travel goals and plans.


    FOR THE ENVIRONMENT

    Let's start with flying lanterns. Seeing pictures and videos of lighted lanterns filling the night sky, I have no words--it looks sooo beautiful like Van Gogh's starry starry night! It even landed a spot on my travel bucket list (blame Disney's Tangled haha!). 


    I once had a close-call opportunity to do this is in Shifen Old Street of Taiwan after seeing friends' posts wherein they wrote their wishes in one huge lantern before setting it off to the skies! It looks so dreamy! On my last Taiwan trip, we suddenly had to let go of visiting Shifen because of time constraints, so I had no chance to take part of the lantern activity. 

    Later on, I read online articles circulating around social media dissing tourists supporting lantern flying coz really, where do these papers end up the next day? And a bigger question is, is there a more environmental friendly way to continue with lantern flying for tourists, especially in Chiang Mai where it is actually a part of their traditions every November? Again, what if we were there during the festival season, most prob I took part in lantern flying too. 😕

    photo from chiangmai.bangkok.com

    On another topic but also affecting our environment, the easiest way to travel with our planet in mind is by avoiding plastic at all cost. It's harder for bottled water which I consume so much (free drinking water is not always available in some countries), but we can try to apply this in other things: By bringing ecobags or big backpacks when shopping, saying no to straws, etc. Did I miss out on anything? Feel free to pitch your tips below!


    FOR THE ANIMALS

    I am super guilty for visiting zoos or aquariums because they always rank high in top spots to visit in most cities I've been to--especially in Japan and Korea! The concern in zoos is that these establishments "exploit animals for profit", often times holding these animals in captive as if they are prisoners away from their natural habitat.

    Meanwhile, accredited zoos in this day and age learned to shift their focus from animals as entertainment to species preservation and education (for kids and for experts). Through zoos, the public is educated not only about the different animals, but also to raise awareness on conservation programs and (for the experts) veterinary medicines. They say that zoos give animals better habitats than just letting these species out in the wild (with the global warming). 

    To visit or to not support? Huge fish tank in Aqua Planet in Yeosu, South Korea:

    Back to Chiang Mai, prior the trip thank God that I am already fully aware of the negative implications of riding elephants. I think this concern is finally conquered by the public, most of the elephant tours now offer sanctuary visits. They banned RIDING ELEPHANTS, and the USE OF HOOKS AND CHAINS on these gentle creatures.

    I picked our tour via Klook  which I think is a reputable and growing travel company app now. I think travel companies like Klook should take the first step and not add unethical tours for their users to book in their app. Again, sometimes the travellers are just not aware. I trust that the one that we went to through their app is legit pro-elephants.

    I picked the full day visit at the Elephant Day Care at Chiang Mai Mountain Sanctuary (PHP 2416). Roundtrip transportation, lunch, and uniforms are all provided.


    The elephant sanctuary is a new experience to me, and also very overwhelming too! We had the chance to trek side by side with our elephant (Moolah) as we walked the gentle giant through forests and mountains and rushing rivers.

    I also like that aside from taking pictures with elephants, we also learned how to feed them (even prepared their daily vitamins), and support their products too (poo paper!). I think my favorite from this day was when we all just left our cameras and phones on the shore, took off our shoes, and just swam with the elephants during that hot summer day! 

     First stop of the tour, the Elephant Poo Poo Paper Park where we learned how they make use and earn from elephants' poo by turning sh*t into paper and other paper products! 

    Holding dried elephant poo here, haha!

    Turns out, since elephants poo all the time, coz they only eat greens and bananas and sugar canes, their poo has a lot of fiber that can be cleaned and transformed into paper!





    I got myself a smiley face notebook made of elephant poo paper!

    Snaps from our hiking, feeding, and swimming with the elephants at their beautiful elephant sanctuary:








    The elephants are very healthy and happy! This is actually one of our highlights for this trip.

    Swimming with the elephants:


    FOR HUMAN RIGHTS

    I really enjoyed meeting the elegant women of the Karen Long Neck Tribe, known for wearing brass rings to elongate their necks, in a preserved village where they create and sell their crafts. They are all very meek but friendly, and aside from letting us take photos with them they also painted thanaka (ground bark) on our faces which are meant to cool our skin from the sun.









    Visiting the Karen Long Neck Tribe is part of a tour we booked along visiting the Secret Temple of Chiang Mai. The village is one of my Chiang Mai bucket list after seeing travel blogs and Instagram posts of those who have been to this city. And unlike the elephant sanctuaries, it didn't cross my mind that going to the Karen Hill Tribe is something negative till I received a message on my Instagram. She said that it's like going to a "human zoo".

    I really felt bad when I read this but I guess she meant well. The whole time when we visited the village, I only felt good vibrations from everyone there--from the tourists to the villagers. Our tour guide herself said that she used to be part of the tribe, you will know coz iba yung compassion and interaction nya with the kids and the women. Para silang old friends!

    Sabi niya the coiled brass rings are really very heavy that she used to cry as a little girl when her mom had to put them on her neck! She also told us that they do not allow begging and giving alms to the tribe, and instead, we only hand over chocolates and candies to the kids when we visited. True enough wala akong nafeel na force selling while we were there. Even the products that they sell hindi nila pinipilit, because going to the village and the tour already involve fees which goes to the women. Although I still bought bracelets from their stalls because they are actually beautiful.







    Anyway, I guess like in the elephant sanctuary you just have to be cautious which tour you will book or village you will visit. I found a good online read where these migrant women of the long neck tribe (they are refugees from Myanmar) said that these tours are their only source of income. These villages are their home and workplace at the same time.



    Again, shaming those who go to these sites and activities is pointless compared to educating people to steer clear from committing the same mistakes in their future travels. I sincerely want to know what is okay, what is not okay? I am open for your valuable insights on ethical ways to travel. My comment box and email are open. ❤

    Read my other Chiang Mai Travel Blogs.




    PS: At first honestly I was scared to post this in fear of getting bashed. But I guess ok lang din maopen up ang conversation coz it has been proven that there are changes talaga na nanyayari coz of these opinions. Like yun elephants before nung wala pang say ang social media they offer rides talaga coz dun sila kumikita. Di naman aware tourists at that time na masama yun. Nun wala na sumuporta ng elephant rides, nag adapt din yung tours—I notice na wala nang rides now (kung meron man super konti nalang).
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    Other Things To Do In Chiang Mai | Almost Everything That We Did, We Booked Via Klook!

    July 11, 2019, 4:46 am
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    We had 4 full days in Chiang Mai, and to make my travel organizer life easier, I just booked one activity per day via travel app Klook! This is not sponsored! 😃 I just want to show that if you're in charge of the trip, and you don't want to think too much na or you don't have time to make intensive itinerary, Klook has a lot of offerings na sobrang okay and sulit. I'd like to think that hindi ako napahiya sa friends ko, haha!

    Klook tours usually already include your transportation the whole day, free buffet lunch, and a tour guide. I like it pag na ti-tita mode nako sa isang trip and don't want to navigate or think of where to eat lunch na may pwede sa lahat. I can't believe I'll be in this stage of my travelling life, haha! DIYs are cool and maybe even cheaper, but going on tours doesn't necessarily take away the fun in travels.







    Air conditioned vans all the way! 😁👌


    Aside from the above mentioned, I also like that these tours already include entrance fees and lunch. In short, mas onti na and kailangang cash during the trip. I only spent money for our Grab, shopping, and dinner. My estimated pocket money is about PHP 10,000 (or less, if without the shopping). No need to have money exchanged here in Manila, we just withdrew Thai Baht from the airport ATM. 

    Day 0: Singapore's Changi Airport Lounge

    Hours of in transit to reach Chiang Mai! More of this on this blog post.

    Day 1: Arrival

    We arrived in Chiang Mai late afternoon, so after settling in our hostel, we decided to just walk to the night market (North Gate Night Market) for our first dinner in the city. We had legit pad Thai, tom yum, mango sticky rice, etcetera. 

    Food night market walking distance to our hostel, where we had our first dinner in Chiang Mai:

    Nothing beats eating outside, and having authentic local food from street vendors!

    Day 2: Elephant Sanctuary

    I picked the full day visit at the Elephant Day Care at Chiang Mai Mountain Sanctuary (PHP 2416). Roundtrip transportation, lunch, and uniforms are all provided. More of my experience here.

    Day 3: Thai Cooking Class

    We booked for the full day at Mama Noi Thai Cookery School Chiang Mai (PHP 1233), which includes concocting 5 dishes. Everything that we cooked during the class kinain din namin so super nakakabusog talaga yung day na yun! May option din to take home the other dishes we can't eat na, so that's free dinner for us pa hehehe, sulit!

    Mama Noi is not an air conditioned school, it felt more like a guerrilla style cooking class. Our first stop was a local market where we checked out the usual ingredients and spices used in a Thai dish. We also met our teacher there, who is very animated that she made a looong day in front of the hot stove more comical and even entertaining! Modesty aside, I'd like to think that humor is one of the reasons why all our dishes turned out delicious! My favorites are the pad thai, spring rolls, and of course the Thai milk tea. 




    Tried the macopa while we went around the local market, super juicy!

    Inside the cooking school's garden, super pretty!

    We picked 5 dishes in this selection, I love that we have the freedom to cook what we want.

    They are also very open to vegetarian alternatives! Our teacher was holding bottles of fish sauce, oyster sauce, and MUSHROOM SAUCE!

    It was a very hands-on cooking class:



    Proud of the dishes I made!



    Our full dinner back in our hostel:

    Day 4: Temples Day

    I know that Chiang Mai and the whole of Thailand has a lot of temples, but to make sure we don't get "temple fatigue", we only set aside a day to explore some of the best and unique ones which are located in Chiang Rai (around 3-4 hours from Chiang Mai).

    Our tour includes a visit to the White Temple, Blue Temple, and the Black House (PHP 1833). Again, transpo, entrance fees, and lunch are all included in the fee.

    The temples we visited are also very unique from the ones I've been to in my whole travel life. But behind the beauty and intricacy of these structures are their local artists who are very dedicated in putting the name of their city on the globe. Mad respect for the right motivations.


    Hot spring stop-over. Onti lang ang time so we just had CR break and bought some snacks which include a pack of quail eggs that the vendor boiled in the hot spring! 😄


    The White Temple of Chiang Rai looks even more majestic in real life. 


    There are unusual modern details you'll spot around the White Temple compound:


    Even their toilet looks like a temple, all painted in GOLD!

    The artist behind the Blue Temple is a student of the artist of the White Temple! No wonder they have similar aesthetics: Detailed and full-blown!


    Had coconut ice cream with purple sticky rice.

    Our last stop is the Black House, a museum of unique (mostly black) structures housing animal bones, skulls, and other weird stuff. The artist behind this is locally renowned--if you look at the property as a whole concept, it's amazing how they curated everything.

      



    Day 5: Nature Day

    For our last full day, I picked a scenery tour which is a trip to the Doi Inthanon National Park (PHP 1800). We went to a Karen Hill Tribe village, 2 waterfalls, and then visited Thailand's highest peak!

    A downside of this tour is that the description in Klook said that we're meeting Karen Long Necks, but the tour was about to end when my friends and I realized that it's just the Karen hill tribe and sobrang na-down ako for building my friends' expectations! Akala ko ako yung nagkamali for misunderstanding the tour inclusions, but I had screenshots of the descriptions. Buti nalang our tour guide was very helpful and booked us a half-day tour the next day since our flight is still after lunch (a buzzer beater, huling hirit na tour!). I checked the app now, and they have already changed the description after a series of reviews about this same issue.



    This is the Karen Hill Tribe village that we visited. It's also a nice chill site where we were able to try their coffee and check out their weaved handicrafts:





    The King and Queen's Pagoda, and a beautiful garden located near the top of the mountain:


    It says that a piece of Buddha's hair is inside the clear jar:




    The trek to Thailand's highest peak. I love that the temperature suddenly dropped here! Plus I enjoyed seeing unique blooms and mossy trees during our walk. Sobrang ibang iba from our past days in Chiang Mai na hulas ang labanan! 😂









    Group pic in Thailand's highest point!

    Day 6: Secret Temple and Karen Long Necks + Heading to the Airport

    Again an unplanned visit because of a misunderstanding with yesterday's tour, we spent our flight day going to another half day tour in the morning (Php 750) which includes a visit to the Karen Long Neck Village. But before that, we also went to the Hidden Temple, also known as the Wat Pha Lat. Now this place is something new to me and I'm glad we went to this tour because of this!

     

    Very amused! Found Bagan pagodas in this jungle.

    Our tour guide opened a marker, and wrote our names in our arms in Thai alphabet!

    Super konti din ng tao dito. It's not as touristy as most temples in Chiang Mai. 


    Post-Travel Thoughts

    Chiang Mai ranks high in my travels for this year, maybe it's because a) I seldom travel with friends and I enjoy it from time to time, and b) It's also my first time in Chiang Mai. I am counting YEARS since my last visit in Thailand! Ang sarap pala talaga ng food and shopping sa kanila.

    I also had fun getting to know this beautiful city without tiring myself by simply dropping my "DIY travel" pride and just joining tours. I have to admit, even for an introvert it was nice to meet fellow tourists from all over the world through these group tours!

    We also had a minor boo-boo when our pocket wifi did not work for the whole trip. And since we're on a group tour, navigation and last minute researching weren't necessary. I actually think having no internet was a blessing in disguise coz for the first time I had no pressures in putting up content real time or check "updates". We just posted when we're back in our hostel, but for the whole day, we only have each other for entertainment! 😂

    Yun naman din talaga ang nakakamiss as much as I love solo travelling! (Kaya madaldal lang ako sa Stories pag mag isa ako). At the end of the day, I am grateful I have my two best friends with me to share insights with about our experiences, and of course my favorite part in any day: people to laugh with!

    Ending this whole Chiang Mai travel blog series with more photos!

    Posing with elephant poo turned into craft paper!

    Biglang naka scarf nung ang lamig sa Doi Inthanon, Thailand's highest peak!

    Our cozy room in Chiang Mai:

    Akala ko strong nako, but I can't even chop these sugar canes for the elephants! 


    Playing with filters when we don't have internet access. 😂 

    More ready to eat than to cook! 😄 

    Thai milk tea with our cooking classmates!

    To seeing more of the world together! ❤

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    How To Repeat Your Clothes

    July 16, 2019, 10:53 pm
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    Sometimes, social media will make us want to wear new clothes to have different daily outfit posts. I think this is problematic because we tend to: 

    1) Buy more clothes (usually at fast fashion stores) which is not good for the environment. 

    2) We also lose our creativity when we just wear our new clothes every time we go out.

    Repeating your outfits is okay, but I think the best trick is to repeat your old pieces of clothing and make them look as if they're new! How? By styling them DIFFERENTLY! Here are some simple fashion formulas I've been using:

    1) Wear your long sleeves polo as skirt.


    2) Wear your dress as top. If it's a button-down dress or polo, you can also wear it as cover-up.


    3) Wear sleeves over a shirt. You can also play with shapes by wearing sleeveless top over a unique sleeved top like balloon sleeves, etc.

    4) Or simply by wearing the same piece of clothing with something else! (Same top with skirt, pants, shorts, etc.)



    What's your favorite outfit-repeating trick? Make sure to also keep your clothes looking new or it will defeat the purpose! Comfort Philippines restores that "love at first wear feeling" by giving your clothes the fabric color, feel, and shape care that they need. ❤


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    Huxley Korean Skincare | Review + Where To Get Them Here In The Philippines

    July 18, 2019, 8:44 pm
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    Hang in there self-esteem, I recently had a bad case of breakout (on my cheek, forehead, nose, etc), and it's not even that time of the month yet!!

    I'm thinking if it's because of being too stressed out for nothing, or it's because of the new products I've been trying on my face. And so I decided to take things lightly day-by-day, and to shake up my skincare routine. I've been buying random Korean and Thai products online and when I am in the mall (stress-shopping?) making it harder to pin-point the culprit! 

    Since I have no idea what product caused my pimples, I thought of using (almost) one-brand skincare. My choice is Korean skincare brand HUXLEY.


    About Huxley

    Huxley is a Korean brand with minimalist aesthetics. I used to think it's a western brand because of its name and packaging, but after researching online, Huxley actually falls under Kbeauty!

    A favorite among Korean flight attendants, Huxley used to be a hard-to-find brand especially here in the Philippines. I am happy to announce that you can now easily purchase around 14 different Huxley products through beauty site www.freyja.com/. With its simple packaging, and effective moisturizing and repairing qualities, no wonder it's the ideal skincare to bring during travels.


    My Huxley skincare from Freyja.


    It comes with samples so I can try other brands and products that they also carry.

    What's the main deal with this brand? Huxley's staple ingredient is very exotic: PRICKLY PEAR, a succulent from Morrocco! 

    The Sahara-sourced prickly pear is a promising ingredient in skincare, its seeds and stems have natural oils that are rich in Vitamin E which we all know is very good for the skin. Vitamin E is also anti-inflammatory and antioxidant, reducing skin redness and making wounds from pimple heal faster. 

    All their products are labelled / named Secret of Sahara:



    The Huxley mission is to offer the best beauty solutions with integrity to people who take the true value of skin as a top priority amid a flood of beauty information. 

    Great things never came from comfort zones. Great things come from risky ideas and bold attempts. This is how Huxley started.  

    Determined to pursue the right skin care solutions corresponding to modern people's skin woes severely affected by a hectic, stressful city life, Huxley's adventure to the barren Sahara Desert began in search of fine and effective ingredients.

    (from freyja.com)

    Here are the Huxley products that I have:

    1) Huxley Healing Mask: Keep Calm - Php 1350

    Hydrates and calms, this mask replenishes my tired and stressed skin. Texture is jelly-like, smells good, and easy to use. Just spread ample amount of Huxley Healing Mask: Keep Calm on clean face for 5 minutes, then rinse off.



    2) Secret of Sahara: Oil Essence 30mL - Php 1900

    Basically a lightweight serum that hydrates and nourishes the skin. It boosts the skin's moisture through its high concentration of Prickly Pear Seed Oil (60%), and can be considered as both essence and facial oil. The Secret of Sahara: Oil Essence is also not sticky, it can be used on both daytime and night time. 



    3) Secret of Sahara Cream: Fresh and More - Php 1650

    Aside from Prickly Pear Seed Oil, this product also contains squalene and aloe moisture--both known to relieve the skin from irritation and dryness. It is a gel-type cream that is lightweight, perfect for layering with other products.



    Currently in my skincare stash: Huxley Sleep Mask: Good Night - Php 1350
    Moisturizing, with potent Sahara cactus extract

    The Verdict

    Here's how my current skincare routine goes: 

    1) I exfoliate / remove my light makeup with Neogen DermalogyBio-Peel Gauze Peeling in Green Tea. 

    2) I rinse the product with water + Wash my face with Cathy Doll Acne Solution Serum + Foam Cleanser. Pat dry.

    3) I spray BeachBorn Healing Toner on my face.

    4) Then I layer the following Huxley products in this order: Secret of Sahara: Oil Essence,  Huxley Sleep Mask: Good Night, and Secret of Sahara Cream: Fresh and More. Make sure to lightly pat products on your skin for max absorption! 

    5) Think happy thoughts, no to stress! Haha!


    Now only on my day 2, and skin feels brighter and clearer! I noticed that there are no more redness especially around areas where I had acne, so I guess these products helped calm my skin. Bumps are still there but slightly unnoticeable, and I didn't get more pimples! 

    I'm planning on going for a facial but since I tried a new routine, I will postpone muna my Belo visit haha! I will be following these skincare steps for the rest of the week and update you on my IG Stories. Hoping for the best! 

    Visit: https://www.freyja.com/ph/
    Follow: @beautybyfreyja on Instagram and Facebook

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    Things To Do In Singapore + Win A Trip for Two to Singapore!

    July 24, 2019, 9:05 pm
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    Recently, I find myself missing Singapore!

    I went there to watch Coldplay concert last 2017, which also instantly became a barkada trip since my friends and I were already there. I stayed in SG for good 10 days, and although it wasn't my first time in this country, I was fun to visit new places especially with friends! I think that's the magic of traveling, if you are curious and open to anything, there will always be something new to see, taste, and do!








    Singapore may be a small country, but there are hidden spots yet to be discovered and new establishments yet to explore. I like that this country is:

    a) Fairly safe to travel alone,
    b) Has really good commuting system, it's easy to go around, and
    c) Have so much food and art destinations.

    Sharing a list of some of the things we were able to do on my last SG trip. If you have new places i wasn't able to include here, feel free to add them in the comment box below! Maybe I can go to them when I get to visit Singapore this or next year!







    Street Art

    1) Little India
    Nearest MRT Station: Little India, NE7 (Purple)

    2) Everton Road
    Nearest MRT Station: Outram Park, EW16 / NE3

    3) Haji Lane
    Nearest MRT Station: Bugis

    If you want to walk outdoors instead of the mall, you'll get to appreciate the local street art scene and the many independent fashion and coffee shops when you're in Singapore.








    Museums

    1) ArtScience Museum
    Nearest MRT Station: Bayfront, Promenade, or Marina Bay Station

    2) National Gallery Museum
    Nearest MRT Station: 5 min walk from City Hall Station, or 10-min walk from Raffles Place Station and Clarke Quay Station

    3) Chinatown Heritage Centre
    Nearest MRT Station: Chinatown MRT Station

    If it's a hot day, a trip to the museum is my go-to activity! Singapore has a lot of staple and new exhibitions that are interesting and even inspiring. I love catching new ones at the ArtScience Museum. One time I was able to check out a Titanic exhibition, and the latest visit I went to the popular TeamLab digital exhibit.






    Parks

    1) Singapore Botanic Gardens
    Nearest MRT Station: Botanic Gardens Station

    2) Gardens By The Bay
    Nearest MRT Station: Bayfront Station, Exit B

    3) Haw Par Villa
    Nearest MRT Station: Haw Par Villa Station

    Last but not the least, you can also enjoy FREE attractions in Singapore by visiting their parks! The Gardens By The Bay have light shows at night that's worth seeing with your friends.







    Other Unique Place in Singapore:
    Library@Orchard - Free admission public library inside the mall.
    Books Actually - A street with bookshops, book vendos, and such.
    Platform 1094 - Harry Potter inspired cafe.





    Although I am a big fan of solo traveling, I also enjoy going out of the country with my friends whom I now consider my sisters--my kaakbay sa paglakbay! At the end of the day, I have people I can laugh with and share my stories with. I have traveled to local and international destinations with Tracy and Pax for several times already, and consider them as my travel buddies! We've been friends for more than 10 years already, and just like in the KAAKBAY:Bro video of celeb Father-Son tandem Piolo and Iñigo, memorize nadin namin ang isa't isa. We seldom see each other, but every time we meet or travel we make sure na sulit ang time namin together (quality over quantity!). We may have our differences, but these irks and quirks are spices that make a trip and our friendship even more exciting! 

    By the way, you can also win a TRIP FOR TWO TO SINGAPORE with Sun Life Financial, no purchase necessary! All you have to do is watch this Youtube video on July 27, 9am, and leave a comment on who your Kaakbay is, and your own stories of lifetime partnerships. You can check the complete mechanic here: http://bit.ly/KaakbaySGMechanics.

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    Traveling To India For The First Time | Travel Package, Budget, Social Media vs Reality, Etc.

    July 30, 2019, 4:17 am
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    One of the most misunderstood countries that I went to is India. The first thing that comes to mind are all the things that media has shown me prior experiencing this beautiful country myself: It is scary, it is dirty, crime rates are high, etc. 

    Through this 10-day trip though, I realized that about 50% 80% off the things we just hear around and read on social media are not true! I like the advice given to me by my friend @beingmisseast on my first day in Delhi:

    "Oo mainit ngayon, haha! But enjoy Indiaaaa. I wish I wasn't as praning when I went. I would have enjoyed 200% more. But there's always a next time. I'll be viewing your stories!"


    If you felt that little nudge in your heart that you want to go and see the Taj Mahal or the Pink City, then I hope this blog post will be your BIG PUSH to do so. I love Japan and Korea, and I thought can only enjoy a place during cold season, but India is my exception. Travelling here during the hottest month of the year didn't take away anything from the experience--you won't need the best weather or the best whatever to enjoy this eccentric and colorful country. Everything's new to me, and if you haven't been here too, I am sure you'll feel the same! India, you have captured my heart!





    INDIA TRAVEL PACKAGE

    First of all, I was not in involved in organizing this trip. 😁

    I've always wanted to go to India, but like all the stories I kept getting on my DM, wala ako mahatak na kasama. The moment I received an invite from my sister Cea to join her friends for an India trip this year, hindi na ako nag isip--GO NA YAN!

    We were a mix group, yung typical na friend of friend, friend ni ganyan, and me--sister ni friend. Haha! But we truly enjoyed each other's company. 


    Cea's friend Stacy contacted a travel agency based in India that a relative has already tried. In short, may good reviews and experiences na so dun nadin kami kumuha. 

    For around $815 each, the travel package already covered all our hotels in all the cities we went to (walang bababa sa 4-star, Cea and I had our own room all-throughout), and our transportations the moment we arrived in the airport til we went home. Drinking water may be an issue in India, but our private van was OVERFLOWING with bottled water so hoard ako everyday sa icebox hehe! 😀



    One of our local guides during this trip. They all have so much stories up their sleeves, and magaling din sila mag picture! Hehe!

    And lastly, the package also includes our driver (Kuya Khan, who is the best!), fuel and toll-tax, and parking charges. We also have different local English speaking tour guide for every city we went to, which is important to me. Through these guides, I was able to learn more about India through the eyes of someone who lives here. 

    Meanwhile, package is not inclusive of entrance fees so you can decide on the last minute if you want to pay and enter a palace or museum. Package is also not inclusive of all meals (except breakfast, which comes with the hotel booking), but they brought us to safe restaurants with affordable rates. Also, there are places that require you to pay for bringing a camera, this is also not included yet in the package.

    Here's how our 10 days travel package in India looks like:

    Accommodations

    New Delhi - 2 Nights - Jivitesh Hotel (4★)
    Agra - 1 Night - Radisson Hotel (4★)
    Jaipur - 2 Nights - Sarovar Premier (4★)
    Jaisalmer - 2 Nights - For Rajwada (Heritage)
    Jodhpur - 1 Night - Ranbanka Palace Hotel (4★)
    New Delhi - 1 Night - Transit Hotel near airport for our red eye flight

    - Cea and I have separate rooms from her friends
    - All hotels have free breakfast buffet

    Our very first room in India, Jivitesh Hotel in New Delhi, left a good first impression!


    One of my favorite hotels during our India trip was in Jaisalmer:


    Itinerary

    Day 1: Arrival in India via Delhi International Airport

    Pickup and transport to hotel c/o Kuya Kahn
    Nighttime na when we arrived so we just stayed in our rooms and rest

    Day 2: Explore India's Capital City, Delhi

    Old Delhi 

    Red Fort
    Humayun’s Tomb
    Jama Masjid
    Chandini Chowk
    Qutab Minar
    Akshardham Temple
    Gandhi Memorial at Raj Ghat
    Drive around Govt. impressive buildings of the British Era designed by Lutyens such as India Gate, Parliament house of India and President Palace. 
    Rickshaw Ride to glimpse the colorful streets and local bazaars of old Delhi.




    Day 3: Transit To Agra

    4 hours Drive from Delhi to Agra
    Check in Hotel
    Red Fort of Agra
    Mehtab Bagh - A beautiful garden for a glimpse of the Taj Mahal

    Day 4: Taj Mahal + Transit to Jaipur

    Taj Mahal before sunrise!
    Back in hotel for breakfast and check-out
    Long drive again to Jaipur, the Pink City of India
    Side-trip to Fatehpur Sikri
    Check-in hotel in Jaipur



    Day 5: Jaipur

    Amber Fort
    Panna Meena Ka Kund - Jaipur's Stepwell
    Albert Hall
    City Palace
    Palace Winds (Hawa Mahal)
    Jantar Mantar
    Lunch at Hotel Sujan Rajmahal Palace
    Shopping in Jaipur (near Hawa Mahal!)
    Check-out hotel for Sleeper Train to Jaisalmer



    Day 6: Transit to Jaisalmer, the Desert Town of Rajasthan

    We were suppose to take the plane to Jaisalmer, but it was off-peak season so there were no other passengers that they have to cancel the flights! We opted for the sleeper train to maximize our time.

    Upon arrival, Kuya Kahn was already waiting for us at the train station.
    Checked-in our beautiful hotel, had lunch, and settled a bit for our afternoon activity.
    Sunset camel ride in the middle of the desert! 




    Day 7: Full Day in Jaisalmer

    Rajasthan "Golden Fort"
    Gadisar Lake 
    Patwon Ki Haveli (Mansion) 
    Salim singh Ki Haveli

    Really enjoyed this tour day! I love Jaisalmer, sobrang unique city niya it feels like I am inside a movie set.




    Day 8: Jodhpur

    5-hour van ride
    Check-in, and immediately explore the Blue City (we only had 1 day here)
    Old Town
    Mehrangarh fort
    Jaswant Tada
    Clock Tower and Sardar Bazar



    Day 9: Jodhpur to New Delhi

    Breakfast + Check-out
    Plane to New Delhi
    A new driver welcomed us back to the capital city, and drove us to our hotel near the airport.
    Our flight back to Manila is still at around midnight, so we had an afternoon to go malling!
    City mall for last minute shopping, tried McDonald's India!
    Back in hotel to freshen up, take a nap, before our transportation to airport picked us up.


    In less than 10 days, we were able to see 5 cities of India, and enjoy the highlights this country has to offer. Medyo nakakapagod lang because ang dalas ng transfers, but worth it naman. I really commend that we booked a private tour coz wala na akong kailangang isipin from directions, where to eat, etc. Come to think of it, iwas scam and fraud nadin siya coz we're under a reputable agency the whole time.

    If you're also interested in getting this tour, you can contact our travel agency's owner Himanshu Mendiratta of Leisure India Holidays at +919829257777, or email info@lih.travel. If you have a specific budget, they will adjust the activities for you. They also have a website http://www.lih.travel. I highly recommend them! 


    BUDGET

    Here's a rough estimate of my total expenses for this trip:

    1) Airfare, we got a roundtrip flight via Thai Airways - Php 27,000
    With 30 Kilos luggage allowance, all meals - mine is vegetarian, and convenient layover in BKK airport

    2) Indian Visa - Php 4000
    We applied online via this website: http://indianvisaonline.gov.in (paid via Paypal) 
    Then received our E-Visa around 2-3 days after application! 

    3) Tour Package - Php 48,000
    Inclusions above (all hotels, all transpo, all tour guides and driver)

    4) Pocket Money - Php 20,000 to Php 50,000

    This one varies per person! We have a friend who only spent Php 20,000 during our ten day trip, spent on all her entrance fees, tips, and all meals. I am a shoppingera and bought carpets worth Php 3000-6000, Indian style clothes and knick knacks for pasalubong, went grocery shopping, and I also enjoy coffee breaks and room service haha. My personal estimated pocket money is around Php 40-50,000.

    PERSONAL TOTAL EXPENSES = Php 129,000



    FINAL THOUGHTS AND ADVICE

    1) Water issues. Here's a friendly advice I received from friends who had been to India before me: Never drink tap water straight from the faucet. Nagka diarrhea si ganyan. They say that it's better to use bottled mineral water even to brush your teeth when in India. I am not sure about this, but I still complied with this advice for fear of spoiling the trip when something goes wrong with my stomach. I have Imodium with me on my bag, in case. 

    We also bought bottled water to drink (or hoard the free ones in our van), but mid trip, I also drink filtered "house water" in restaurants and wala naman nanyaring masama.

    2) Since we went in the middle of the summer, super init talaga pumapalo ng 40-50 degrees ang temperature everyday. I made sure to bring the following with me:

    - Tissue and Wet Wipes
    - Alcohol
    - Face Mist
    - Small Battery-Operated Fan
    - Lots of Sunblock for Body and for Face (re-apply in the middle of the day)
    - Scarves are the best to cover the face and arms during walking tours

    It's a good thing we're being transported by our own private airconditioned van, so I just left these things in my backpack or big tote on my seat during short stops.



    3) Just to be sure, I also brought small bottles of insect repellent and potty spray. I got them in Messy Bessy. I wasn't able to really use them as much as I thought, though!

    4) I was also able to withdraw money from a local ATM machine, with no worries! Just make sure to ask your tour guide for a reputable bank.

    5) Again since it's the summer season, I only brought one pair of sandals for the whole trip, and a pair of sneakers during our plane rides. I used the rubber version of the 2-strap Birkenstock.

    6) Hindi ko siya naisip coz I always dress conservatively even here in Manila, but I also got an advice not to wear anything above the knee or show too much legs. But then again, during our malling ang dami ko namang nakitang millennials wearing short shorts! Even one of our friends wore shorts when we went to Taj Mahal and okay naman siya.

    They say that aside from preventing stares, wearing modest OOTD is also to show respect nadin especially for tours that require entering temples and sacred places. Tip is to pack black leggings that you can wear underneath your skirt.





    7) Marami talaga mag sesell sayo ng products especially sa streets during walking tours. An advice from one of our guides (if you're not interested) is to not even say anything at all, wala ni "sorry" or "no", just walk straight daw. Effective naman siya! Haha! 

    But ako talaga whenever I see something interesting, and they even say the price na agad agad, some of the best finds I bought during this trip are the ones I scored from the streets! 

    8) Ready your pang-tip! Almost in all establishments they require tipping, public toilets, restaurants, bell boys, etc.

    9) Food. If you're into Indian food, you'll definitely enjoy! But for instance, my sister is not a fan of saucy dishes and spicy foods, she skipped some meals or we tried looking for Western or Chinese food alternatives. It was easy for me as a vegetarian because they have a lot of options, but by mid-trip I was also looking for dry dishes like veggie burger or cheese pizza.

    Cea and friends also brought with them baon like delata na sausages or instant cup noodles. They were able to eat these on nights na tamad na lumabas for dinner. 



    Fine dining in Delhi, Indian Accent. Our most expensive meal for this trip, but food and service are very good!


    Last night in Delhi, Cea and I tried their Mcdo! Wala silang beef sa India--so Cea got the chicken burger. I tried naman their McVeggie!


    10) Shopping. Aside from markets, I super enjoyed shopping for clothes in India malls because most of their shops cater the size of up to 2XL! I love that most of their clothes are made of linen, very lightweight, and apt even for Manila weather. Some recommended local clothing stores are Anokhi and FabIndia.





    Also, like in most guided tours, expect that the tour will end in shops. Okay naman these shops and I actually got pieces from these stop overs, BUT! If you have no plans of buying, tell your guide straight up that you don't want to go in these stops coz it will really take up your time and they are very persistent in selling. 

    Final Words:

    It's okay to be praning but not too much as this is the perfect recipe for taking away the fun from your trip! One of our tour guides gave us these words which left a mark in me after I asked if the Sleeper Train is safe for us four foreign women: Anything can happen anywhere. 

    Like traveling in any part of the world, it's better to be cautious, to look after your self, your things, and your friends more than the usual to prevent any unfortunate incidents. 

    The only kakaibang encounter we had, and this was usually in tourist spots and streets and not the malls, was that men will stare at you. Men, women, and kids alike will want a picture with you. We asked our tour guide about this, and he said it's because they rarely see foreigners. We look like Bollywood celebrities to them! Haha! It was weird at first when they asked for selfies, minsan yung parents pa ang mag pupush sa kids nila to have photos with us lels, but eventually kahit kami we also take out our cameras na and take pictures with anyone who asks for photos with us hehehehe--tabla tabla lang!😂 But during our malling in Delhi on our last day, wala ni isa ang namamansin samin hahaha! 

    Feeling celebrities, haha!




    And lastly, hindi nakakatakot. The whole time we were in India, we were always welcomed by kind locals from our hotel receptionists, tour guides, store staff, and restaurant waiters. They are all very helpful and very polite, asking us if everything's okay! Minsan nakaka touch na yung pagka accommodating nila, we Filipinos are almost the same with them when it comes to hospitality. People were also asking me on DM if mabaho, BUT HINDI. 

    Nakakamiss din! There's still so much to write about our trip, so I hope you'll read on till my last blog post for this! Worth it ang traveling and blogging break for July to September, coz finally I can reflect and look back on one of the best and most unique travels I've had in a while.

    Before saying good bye to Kuya Kahn, our driver in India! We were with him during our whole trip, sobrang sepanx when we left him na in Jodhpur. Huhu!

    Do you have any questions about India? Is India also on your travel bucket list? Feel free to leave me messages below!

    PS: A big thank you to my Instagram friends for watching my India stories! If interested, you can watch my videos on my Instagram Highlights @anagon.








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    What's New? | July 2019

    July 30, 2019, 8:00 pm
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    Hello! Sharing new stuff that you may want to try!



    FOOD

    Watched a movie with the parentals a few days ago, and discovered something new while buying our cinema snacks in Serenitea: My milktea cup's design is Big Bird!! From now until October, all Serenitea stores will be Sesame Street themed!


    I always get 2 orders of Pepper Tofu whenever I'm in Serenitea. It reminds me of a favorite snack in Taiwan. Meanwhile, although I am a coffee person, my only favorite milktea is in Serenitea (Brown Sugar).

    Make sure to spot your favorite childhood characters from the friendly neighborhood in Serenitea, including the store design, cups, and the staff uniforms. You can also redeem a FREE limited edition Serenitea x Sesame Street steel straw featuring Big Bird, Cookie Monster, and Elmo until August 14 for every single receipt purchase of Php 899. Tag me @anagon if you got a different cup design!





    FASHION

    Just got a basic bag to match all my OOTDs in the coming weeks!

    California-born bags and accessories brand Beside U carries functional, sturdy, and stylish bags with RFID-blocking system. This is perfect not only as an everyday bag, but also for travels. It might look like a small bag, but this box sling bag that I am carrying fits even my mirrorless camera!





    BEAUTY

    This looks fun! Avon just released their Avon K-beauty Collection, inspired by the wonderful Korean beauty world of cosmetics and skincare. This new line includes the Avon True Power Essence Color Correcting Cushion, Avon True Gradient Lipstick, and Avon own sheet masks.

    Best part is that these products are fairly affordable too! The moisturizing 2-tone lipstick is only Php 299 and comes in 5 different shades, while the cushion CC liquid foundation is for Php 799 only and comes in 3 shades. Meanwhile, their sheet masks (for face, lips, and eyes) are from Php 119 to Php 149. Excited to test them out!






    Find anything you fancy? Feel free to comment below if there's something else you feel that I need to try--from food, fashion, and beauty categories. Excited for the new month! ❤

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