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Travel Blogging in the Time of Corona Virus

March 13, 2020, 12:54 am
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I usually open a small talk with “saan na next trip mo?”.

 Listening to someone's new or next adventure excites me coz I can really see authentic sparkle in a person’s eyes whenever they talk about their trip. 

Traveling has been my life for the past years. It’s the “highlight” of my blog year-enders, what I look forward to, and a big chunk of my motivation why I work so hard.


What was lost in my blogs, I found again when I focused on travel content. After years of getting derailed, feeling lost when I just cover random events and new products, I can finally write again from the heart. I am still promoting as this is inevitable, but at least now I am promoting more of experiences, creating memories, and even self growth. 

I started with just posting about my personal trips which lasted for years. One day, I received my first free travel invitation to promote tourism, cities, airlines, and other travel related brands. I finally reaped the fruits of my labor. In 2019, I have a flight almost every month. I was living my dream.

And then COVID happened. 

Instead of posting new flights, I see travel cancellations and empty tourist spots on my feed and emails. Instead of press release on seat sales, I receive travel advisories on how to cancel or rebook your airline tickets.

Just yesterday before they announced the community quarantine in Metro Manila, we had to move the dates of our LU hotel supposedly scheduled this weekend. Buti nalang the hotel is very considerate.

That night after our President's press conference, I also had to cancel an international flight to Hanoi for April. There were minor charges that hurt my wallet, but I will take this than pushing through or cancelling without any refunds. 

As of today, I have no pending travels to look forward to.



With my passport temporarily parked inside my closet in the coming months, what do I do now that I am on self-imposed travel break and house arrest?

1) First, I will avoid posting on Instagram suggesting people to travel as if there's no COVID and international health concern going on. I have to be more conscious and extra sensitive in promoting tourism in this time when it can cause an outbreak. 

2) Being on hibernation mode, I can also finally finish travel articles that have piled up from consecutive trips. BUT I have to make sure to put disclaimers, discouraging travels for now. "Use this when you plan your trips in the future, after this virus, etc."

3) Although I am still writing my former travels, I treat them as documentations. I will try NOT to flood my social media with links of these articles. Instead, I will prioritize important travel and of course health advisories.



4) This is also the perfect time to do things that I have been putting off: Declutter my room, finish a book or a Netflix series, start a hobby like painting or bullet journaling, etc.

5) Lastly, take a break. This is the perfect time for self-care. To stay healthy, not only for myself but for my family. Other than strengthening my immune system, it's also a much needed time-off from over-working. I'll dedicate this month to reevaluate and realign my life plans.

Now that you've been given time, what will YOU do? What do you think is ok and what is not ok to post on social media?


Lastly, please do keep in mind that if you have the time to think through things while on "community quarantine", we are still very very fortunate. I will not take my cancelled flights and travel blogging break negatively, as long as God continues to bless me and my family and friends with good health, I am grateful.

I've been reading updates on Italy's situation, our fellow Filipinos with required physical presence to work, and Filipinos who don't even have basic life necessities. Naiiyak ako while reading messages in my groups where I have doctor friends who have to sacrifice their time with their babies, and their colleagues getting infected na by the virus. 

I am praying that all these will be over soon, wag na lumala pa. Sometimes I wish sana balik nalang sa CLOY ang trending sa feed ko dahil tapos na this nightmare! But what can I do? I can only stay at home for now, pray, and hope for the best. Please stay healthy, guys! Let's get through this.

My heart goes to our healthcare workers, the frontliners battling COVID19. 
I am cheering for you! 


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It's a Sweet Day in Itaewon | Snippets from Itaewon Class

March 22, 2020, 3:30 am
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On my last few days in Korea, I decided to just explore different parts of Seoul per day. Something I've always wanted to do, yung hindi paguran na parang marathon. I wanted to take my time and try the food, the shops, and just aimlessly walk around the streets of just one area of Seoul to get to know it more. 

In one particular day when I can't think of anything to do, I decided to focus on Itaewon. I've been here I think one time palang before, and the only thing that I know about this place is that it has a lot of foreigners and it's a party district. I went there last time for the BT21 Line Cafe.


About Itaewon

Itaewon (이태원) is a district popular for tourists, expats, and US military personnel. You can reach Itaewon through Seoul Subway Line 6 via Itaewon, Noksapyeong and Hanganjin stations. 


That morning, I had a very bad start after just barging in an ASTRO meet and greet with no information on the ticketing. I thought that I can just purchase a pass on the spot. After asking 3 to 5 times, and waiting outside as I hear the group's introduction, I decided to give up and just walked away for Itaewon.



Itaewon is a breath of fresh air. Streets are unfamiliar since it's a place I don't really go back to again and again whenever I am in Seoul. Hindi din ako ma nightlife anyway. But after research, I discovered that they have one of the best vegetarian restaurants in Seoul. True enough, at an awkward time and on a weekday, I had to lineup for a seat in PLANT.


To get to Plant, go down Itaewon Station Line 6, and walk out of exit 4. Follow directions via Naver or Google Maps, Plant is on the 2nd floor.


Since I waited in line, I got so hungry that I ordered everything that I wanted! Yun pala sobrang big ng serving size nila dito, it was hard to finish everything. Price is also a bit steep (Spent around Php 1000+), and taste-wise ok naman sya but not super memorable, but will recommend if you're a vegan and vegetarian visiting Korea.


Just outside PLANT is the Itaewon Antique Furniture Street. I just walked past the lanes of small shops selling vintage furnitures and home decors.




Also passed by these tents with cute doggos, up for adoption:



These cuties are waiting for their new fur parents and new home. Medyo heartbreaking. Adopt don't shop, guys!


Scored an affordable small luggage here before. It's in front of Daiso, where I spent a huge amount of time too (parang walang Daiso sa area ko, haha). 


I almost took the train from there, but remembered the coffee shop Ashley sent to me in our group chat that serves art lattes, including Van Gogh's Starry Night. 

Decided to make C. Throughcafe my last stop for the day. Like PLANT, may pila din before I was seated in C. Through. Found out that the coffee is worth my lunch already (around KRW 30,000 or Php 1,200!). Ang mahal, but for me a Van Gogh fan it is worth it, this is coffee is a work of art!




Then my day just got better. I was about to leave C.Through for the train station when someone in the cafe called my name. When I looked back, I saw a Filipino!! 

He introduced himself to me as Marc, and he said he follows me on Facebook. Marc just came in the cafe, and I asked if I can seat with him muna so we can chika! Finally, nakapag Tagalog din after ilang weeks! Haha!

Marc works in Korea for I think 2-3 years already. We extended our talk when he asked if I'm interested to join him in a Korean Drama location just a few blocks away from the cafe. With no other plans that night, I said yes right away!

Turns out, the location is a pub in Itaewon Class! I haven't seen a single episode of this drama then, but now that I've finished it sobrang thankful ako na sumama ako kay Marc! This is where parts of the new Dan Bam was shot!


We had soft tofu jiggae, and shared a bottle of Cass beer. There are standees of Itaewon Class here and there, plus the pub is packed that night! I super enjoyed the hot meal, and was surprised when Marc paid for it! Thank you Marc for bringing me here and for the treat!!! 


Name of the restaurant is Kkul-bam or Honey Night. You can check location HERE.


Before heading for the train, Marc asked me if I want to walk around first, and go past the lane of restaurants and pubs that Itaewon is known for. Buti nalang I wasn't KJ that night and said yes coz we passed by a lot of spots that I saw while watching the show now!




And lastly, we passed by this overpass which appeared several times in Itaewon Class. To get to the NoksapyeongFootbridge, just get off Noksapyeong Station, Seoul Subway Line 6, Exit 2.

The view of the highway leading to the Namsan Tower is so beautiful! Marc described it best as an iconic sight that is "very Seoul". I had no idea that most meaningful conversations in Itaewon Class will be shot here, it is indeed a spot that sparks wishful thinking.



-spoiler alert-

Have you seen Itaewon Class? What are your favorite scenes from this 2020 Kdrama? For me, it would have to be when Saeroyi said to his dad that he has to go back coz he still has a date, Hyo-jin's winning moments on TV, and the last scene when Saeroyi's soju finally tastes sweet. :) 


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Alternative Things To Do In Hongdae

March 25, 2020, 1:41 am
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On my next Korea trip, I'll probably stay in Hongdae. I tried it twice palang, one was just for a night, and the other was for work so I had no time to really go around. There's still so much to see in this hip and youthful neighborhood of Seoul. When all these finally come to an end, I will make sure to book my next guesthouse in Hongdae.


Read some of my Hongdae blogs here.

There are many reasons why I want to stay in Hongdae. First is that a lot of Korean dramas were shot here. It also houses a lot of local cafes and indie shops. And of course, I heard of other hip neighboring areas like Yeonnamdong that I want to go to next time.


On my one afternoon in Hongdae, here are some of the things I was able to do. Feel free to add more Hongdae tips on the comment box below!

12nn: Bought Crash Landing on You Plushie in Bütter

I have to confess that I bought the plushie even before watching the drama, haha! Crash Landing On You was ongoing while I was in Korea. I can't watch during a trip coz I am usually too tired at night, or researching for the next day.

I was on my way out of Hongik University Station Exit 1 when I saw the store Bütter. It's like Artbox which is my favorite stop in Garosugil, so I went in to look around. The penguin plushies with flapping wings were displayed by the entrance, and they're selling them for KRW 15,000. So happy that I got it after watching the series coz it's the perfect souvenir.

Hongik University Station Exit 1, before heading out.



1pm: Light lunch at BT21 Cafe Line Friends store

Went out late that day, so I was starving when I reached Hongdae. I was supposed to look for a vegetarian restaurant, but I cannot resist heading inside Line Friends first. I thought I can push lunch time for a little bit more so I can check out new BT21 merch.

Hongik University Station Exit 1, walk straight.









Was thinking of getting this, but a lot voted for no in my IG story poll. 😅


BT21 Ice Beverage offerings. It changed na pala from the last time I went to a BT21 cafe.





2pm: Photo ops at the Beauty Inside Exhibit

Beauty Inside exhibit is located in Statice Museum Hongdae. I discovered it through Klook. It is like Dessert Museum or a super small Teamlab where you go to different rooms and corners designed as photo zones. Hindi nakakahiya magpaka vain dito, lol!
Lots of couples, and most if not all are Koreans, napansin ko I was the only one who went there alone! But they have stations with mirrors so I make do with taking mirror selfies. Medyo awkward haha, but cute din naman ng shots. If taking pictures is not your thing ok na to pass this up. But it's a cute indoor activity when it's too cold or too hot outside.

Hongik University Station Exit 9, follow maps app to Statice Museum











4pm: Watch Hongdae Street Performers

I randomly passed by this area while looking for a stationery store I've been meaning to visit. This street culture is just one of the things that made me fall in love with Korea 2 or 3 years ago. I live for the energy of the youth performing to Kpop. Even the audience were so supportive! Stopped to watch a busker sing Paul Kim's So Long, my Hotel Del Luna heart!!!
Hongdae street performers start at 4-5pm, then 7pm onwards. 
Hongik University Station Exit 8 or 9, follow the booming music or search for the Twosome Place Coffee Shop.



5pm: Shop merch from local creators in Object

If you watch Ondo vlogs, this is where the Korean vlogger sells her merch! Visited to take a look, but ended up creating a big dent in my pockets! It is similar to our Commonroom here in Manila.

Aside from Ondo, you'll also discover other local Korean artists in this store. They have a bookstore on the top floor, and three floors filled with random stuff like stationeries, totes, home display, kitchen stuff etc. Ang sarap mag hoard if only I have the luggage space and budget!

Hongik University Station Exit 6. Visit Object Online.






6pm: Early Dinner at the Train Station

Before completely leaving Hongdae, I passed by this small restaurant inside the train station and decided to make a quick stop for dinner. They have gimbap, ramyeun, and other Korean dishes to warm the tummy. I've been eating convenience store food for the past days, so it's nice to dine and eat fresh food. The place reminds me of my first favorite in Korea, Pomato. 

Hongik University Station Near Exit 5.





My haul from Hongdae:





Watch more here:


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My Sokcho Adventures + Traveling Outside of Seoul

March 31, 2020, 1:04 am
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I have a friend who collects Funko Pops, and one who is really into dolls. We are all in our 30s age range now, but I encourage and enable my chingus whenever I find out they are into this and that.

Meanwhile, I'd like to say that I'm trying to "collect" South Korea cities.

I realized that traveling outside of Seoul makes me really excited and fulfilled. I look into my #Koreanagon Instagram hashtag with genuine happiness--like my friend looking at his shelf of Funko. So every time I go to Korea, I try my best to include a trip outside of Seoul in my itinerary.  What is your favorite South Korea city?



I've learned a few things over the years of traveling outside of Seoul. First, guesthouse is the way to go when you're traveling on a budget, but most guesthouses I've stayed in will either:

1) Entail long walks from the bus / train station,
2) Has limited space,
3) Does not have an elevator.

This is why I decided that for this trip, I am not going to bring my huge luggage from Seoul all the way to my inter-city explorations. I left my things in my Garosugil guesthouse for the convenience, and just packed a small hand-carry with me--even though this means paying for the extra nights when I won't be staying in my room in Seoul.

Where I Stayed in Sokcho

I booked for 2 nights in Sokcho & Guesthouse, which I discovered in Agoda. I always sort the listing with "lowest price first", and pick the hostel with 9.0 rating and above. I only paid Php 700+ per night for a bed in Sokcho & Guesthouse's female dormitory.


I love my experience in this guesthouse, it looks clean and pristine! I wonder if they're new. It's also not super full but also not empty, so breakfast and going around wasn't a hassle.

I also commend the guesthouse owners, they are very friendly ahjussi and ajumma. They will recommend activities for you even when you're not asking them (which is a good thing for an introvert like me hehe). Also, the ajumma even offered her discount card of the hot spring I intended to go to. I wish I could stay here longer coz I really felt good and at home in this guesthouse.


Free basic breakfast!


Here's how my 4 bedroom female-only dormitory looks like. I only had roommates on my first night, mga Koreans na nag party till 3am hehehe. The next night solo ko na yung room. It is very spacious, and again, very clean!


Like all other guesthouses I've stayed in in Korea, every bed has its own electrical outlet. I usually choose the bed nearest the window for extra space.

It was winter time so I appreciate this bed heater:


We have our own toilet and shower room:



Sokcho & Guesthouse is a bit of a walk from the nearest bus stop from Seoul, you can take a taxi if you chance upon one.

The good thing is that it is located in the city center with lots of shops and restos, and access to public transportation.



How To Go To Sokcho (From Seoul)

There are many ways you can take to get to cities outside of Seoul, including plane (Jejuair), bus, and train. For Sokcho, you can even rent a car if you have international license. During planning stage, I look for the best way to travel through Google Maps, Rome 2 Rio, and even through blogs and vlogs. I've tried all of them but my favorite is taking the bus.

Riding a bus is usually the cheaper option. You can either go to Dongseoul Bus Terminal or the Express Bus Terminal.

I took the bus from Dongseoul Bus Terminal coz it will stop in Sokcho Intercity Bus Terminal, which is nearer my guesthouse according to the owner. 

To get to the terminal, I took the subway to Gangbyeon Station. Dongseoul Bus Terminal is just across.


You can buy your one-way ticket on-the-spot at a ticket counter or vendo machine on the bus terminal. They will usually give you a ticket for the upcoming trip which is around 10 to 30 minutes from the time of your purchase. But you can also choose another time slot if you want to chill and eat first, and you're not in a hurry.

Best to secure your ticket once you reach the terminal before doing other things. Spot your platform, then go ahead and buy your snacks.



I have around 15 minutes before my bus leaves so I bought snacks first in a convenience store near the bus platform.


What I like most about taking the bus is the minimal process, no need for check-ins, show of passport, and you don't have to think of your luggage once you're inside. They also have one stopover in the middle of the journey so you can stretch, take a toilet break, or buy snacks and drinks.. Something you won't have when you take the train.

To me, a long bus ride is a nice way to relax on your seat, watch the scenery while listening to music, and a time when I can browse the internet which is something I can't do on an airplane.




About Sokcho

For this 20-day trip, I decided to go to Sokcho. I had a difficult time choosing where to go for this trip coz I've been to most of the main cities tourists go to outside of Seoul. I think I picked Sokcho just because it is located a bit north of South Korea, so there's a chance of encountering snow during my trip (which did not happen btw).

It is not my first time in Sokcho, I went here before with my family for a Mt. Seoraksan tour. Sokcho is well known for Mt. Seoraksan sight seeing, but I decided to eliminate it from my itinerary so I can go to other sites I haven't been to. Honestly, I really had no idea what to expect from this trip!





How To Go Around Sokcho 

Main mode of transportation in Sokcho is by bus, they don't have a train line here. But I noticed that buses are also infrequent, so there were a lot of instances I had to go by foot before realizing that walks here are no joke. Sobrang layo ng Point A to Point B, I think I lost a lot of weight here!

If only they offer tours around the city other than Mt. Seoraksan, I would have joined one instead. I checked both Klook and Trazy and wala pa masyadong Sokcho tours. I also saw cabs, but also as infrequent as their buses. Prepare for a flexible itinerary, and don't pack too much things in a day.


Things To Do

How do you know the must-sees in a new city? Here are some ways, feel free to add more tips on the comment box below!

Research. I usually Google for "Top things to do in (insert city)" prior my trip, and plot them in my itinerary according to locations closest to each other.

Prioritize. I also have personal preferences while traveling. Some will prioritize food trip, others will prioritize hikes, meanwhile I really love anything experiential. When I found out that Sokcho has a North Korean village and a hot spring, I made sure that I'll be able to at least go to these 2 places.

Ask. I also love getting recommendations from the guesthouse owner, or fellow guests. I you have no chance to meet one during your trip, you can also take a map from the bus terminal or information center, and check out their recommended routes.

My 3D2N Sokcho Itinerary

Day 1:

2pm: Arrival at Sokcho Intercity Bus Terminal. 
Travel time from Seoul is around 2.5-3 hours

3pm: Check in Sokcho & Guesthouse
Long walk from the bus station, but walkable. Located in Rodeo Street



4pm: Ride the Gaetbae Ferry + Stroll around Abai Village

This is just walking distance from the guesthouse. Paid around KRW 500 to cross a river with the Gaetbae Ferry, a hand-pulled ferry. This will take around 15 minutes only, or even less.

Meanwhile, Abai Village is where North Korean refugees live. They have restaurants serving their specialty Abai Sundae.






There's a nice mountain and city view from Abai Village. This left me breathless!



You can hangout in one of the restaurants or cafes located in front of the beach, which I regret I did not do:



Abai Village is also a shooting location of Kdrama Autumn in my Heart, have you seen this Kdrama?



My heart is happy whenever I'm near the beach!



6pm: Sokcho Expo Tower

Sokcho Expo Tower is a peculiar structure with an observatory. Viewing deck is enclosed, and wala masyadong guests. This can be a good thing though coz I was able to sit and just relax with the spectacular view of Sokcho and the changing colors of the sky--from daytime to night. Had a nice and quiet walk around the park before heading for the bus.

Observatory is open till 9:40pm, entrance is at KRW 2500.








Time to rest and have coffee after the long walk:

View of the Jodo Island from the observatory:

7pm: Sokcho Tourist & Fishery Market

Just across the guesthouse is the Sokcho Tourist & Fishery Market. I knew I wouldn't find something to eat here, but I still went in since I was there nadin. It started to rain ice while I was in the market, so I stayed a bit longer.

Formerly called the Jungang Market, they are well-known for their sweet and sour fried chicken and fresh seafoods.




As usual, I ended up in a convenience store close to the guesthouse. Had mild spicy cheese tteokboki and corn.





Day 2:

Breakfast at the guesthouse, was also able to talk to the owners for a bit. :)



9am: Morning stroll in Sokcho Beach

Just a bus ride away, my first stop for my one full day in Sokcho was of course by the beach. Walang tao, as expected, coz it was very early and also very cold. Got a glimpse of some of the photo zones and the Jodo Island. Sobrang nacurious ako sa island, but the guesthouse owner told me there won't be ferry services that day coz of the weather.

Decided to just walk along the whole stretch, no time pressures, till I reached the end which is the Lotte Resort Sokcho. Ang simple ng activity but I really enjoyed the quiet time.








11am: Brunch in Lotte Resort Sokcho - Filming Location of Encounter

Went here because of the Kdrama Encounter starring Park Bogum and Song Hye Kyo. This is the hotel where Park Bogum's character was sent to work! I was supposed to book for at least a night here coz rate is not as steep as I imagined it to be (Around Php 6000-7000 per night).

Lotte Resort Sokcho has a waterpark and several restaurants, but the best part is the viewing deck! Decided to let go of the overnight idea so I can save the money, and just eat here for brunch.









Screenshot from the Kdrama:


One of these scenes was shot here, yung hinahanap ni Bogum yung toy ng guest nila na bata na iyak ng iyak, hehe.

Stayed here for around 30 minutes just to stare at the beach, browse social media, and just relax.

1pm: Daepo Oeongchi Walkway

Still inside the hotel compound, there's a walkway heading to the Daepo Oeongchi! This walkway will lead you straight to Sokcho Beach again.






Screenshots from Kdrama Encounter:


3pm: Relax in Cheoksan Spa World

Took a bus to Cheoksan Spa World, a Korean jjimjilbang or hot spring near Mt. Seoraksan park. Entrance is KRW 7000, but got a discount card from our guesthouse owner so sobrang sulit!

To enter the bathhouse, you will need to strip out of your clothes and go in completely naked. As always, women and men sections are separate. Take a shower before trying the pools with different temperature. They even have a semi outdoor area where water is nice and hot, a nice contrast with the winter air. Skin felt really nice after!

Note: They will provide you with a small towel, but there are no free toiletries and even usage of the hairdryer comes with a separate fee. They have a vendo machine in the locker area where I got a sachet of shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and lotion. They also sell food and drinks at the locker area.

If you don't want to get fully naked in public, you can also try the free Cheoksan foot bath.



6pm: Last Stop: Sokcho Lighthouse Observatory / Younggeumjeong Pavilion

Wasn't supposed to go here at night, but had difficulty with public transportation coming from Cheoksan. Had to walk and walk till I reach an area where there are more buses! When I reached the lighthouse, it was already dark. I just walked around before deciding that I should just go back to my guesthouse area.

They say that these viewing decks are best for sunrise or sunset watching.






Thoughts on Sokcho

Sokcho reminds me a bit of Busan. It's a city near the beach area, and tourist spots are a bit far from each other. My next guesthouse owner in Jumujin said that they are different though, coz Sokcho is more popular for its mountains. I have to agree with him, so just imagine a city with a beautiful beach, picturesque mountains, and of course the towering buildings completing the background.

But like Busan, if you're pressed with time it is also possible to just go on a day-trip to Sokcho by going there as early as possible. You can go to Mt. Seoraksan, Cheoksan Spa World, and Lotte Resort Sokcho in just a day. Ang unique din for me ng Abai Village after realizing that Sokcho is also near the DMZ (border). Paano kayo nagpunta doon ang mga refugees? So many things will come to mind since I recently just watched CLOY hehe.

What I like about Sokcho is hindi pa siya ganun ka touristy. Super dali maappreciate ng Korea outside ultra modernization and western influences. Now that I am writing this in my room in Manila, stuck because of the lockdown, daydreaming of my long and pressure-free stroll along Sokcho Beach lends a certain calm.



Watch more here:

Part 1:

Part 2:


View this post on Instagram

⁣ Kdrama location, public bathhouse, and more. Here’s my itinerary on my one full day in Sokcho:⁣ ⁣ 1: 𝐒𝐨𝐤𝐜𝐡𝐨 𝐁𝐞𝐚𝐜𝐡 ⁣ 2: 𝐋𝐨𝐭𝐭𝐞 𝐑𝐞𝐬𝐨𝐫𝐭 𝐒𝐨𝐤𝐜𝐡𝐨 - Filming location of Park Bogum and Song Hye Kyo’s 𝐄𝐧𝐜𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫⁣ 3: 𝐃𝐚𝐞𝐩𝐨 𝐎𝐞𝐨𝐧𝐠𝐜𝐡𝐢 𝗪𝐚𝐥𝐤𝐰𝐚𝐲 - Stroll by the beach, also in Encounter⁣ 4: 𝐂𝐡𝐞𝐨𝐤𝐬𝐚𝐧 𝐒𝐩𝐚 𝗪𝐨𝐫𝐥𝐝 - relaxing hot spring / jjimjilbang ⁣ 5: 𝐒𝐨𝐤𝐜𝐡𝐨 𝐋𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐬𝐞 𝐎𝐛𝐬𝐞𝐫𝐯𝐚𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐲 / 𝐘𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐠𝐠𝐞𝐮𝐦𝐣𝐞𝐨𝐧𝐠 𝐏𝐚𝐯𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐨𝐧⁣ ⁣ #sokcho⁣ #koreabyme⁣ #koreanagon⁣ #anagonvacation⁣ #kdramatour⁣ #encounterkdrama⁣
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Let's Go On A Digital Visita Iglesia!

April 7, 2020, 7:11 am
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This Holy Week, join me as I virtually visit historical churches from the safety of our own homes ... through Google Street View app! 


Google Maps has a useful feature called the Street View that provides a 360-degree view of destinations so we can explore churches as if we are there.

To use, simply open Google Maps on the web, type in a destination, and drag the Pegman located at the bottom right of the screen to a specific area on the map. For mobile, just input the destination and tap on a place marker.

Here are some churches on my list that you can also checkout this Thursday!



I'm starting with one of the nearest churches in our city, and where we often go during our Holy Thursday Visita Iglesia. St. James the Great is located inside Ayala Alabang Village, and is a parish dedicated to build a community of Christ-centered families living together in the true spirit of Christ teachings. 



Located inside the historic walled city of Intramuros, San Agustin Church is considered to be the oldest stone church in the Philippines. It has gone through multiple renovations due to damage from wars during its early years. Now, it stands tall with its beautiful facade and interiors and has become one of the most visited stops during Visita Iglesia season.



This 300-year old church has become an important heritage site in the streets of Sta. Ana, Manila. There are many notable fixtures and historical ornaments inside the church including the revered image of its patron, Our Lady of the Abandoned, which was created in Valencia, Spain in 1713.                        



Originally established as a temporary settlement for the residents of Cagsawa during the Mayon Volcano eruption in 1814, Daraga Church has been renovated countless times to become a secular place of worship in Albay province. This religious architecture also contains several sections that are considered as a National Cultural Treasure of the Philippines.



Most commonly known as the Manila Cathedral, it is a cathedral and basilica dedicated to the blessed virgin Mary. During Visita Iglesia, many families and devotees would include this church in their visits. It has had three historic apostolic visits, with the most memorable one from Pope Francis who also held his first Papal Mass in the country in this church back in 2015.



Also known as Betis Church, St. James The Apostle has also been called the ‘Sistine Chapel of the Philippines’, thanks to its intricate art painted on its ceilings. One look up at its dome and you will see images of several Catholic saints painted above. Because of its rich art and interior design, the church is recognized by the National Museum as a National Cultural Treasure.



Standing at one of the oldest sites of early Catholicism in Laguna, Saint Gregory The Great Parish has a rich history dating back 1571 and contains antique displays of several saints and old liturgical objects. This is also declared as a National Cultural Treasure by the National Museum.                                    



This simple church was declared a basilica by Pope Paul VI in 1965 and was recognized to be a symbol of the birth and growth of Christianity in the Philippines. Today, it serves to be one of the must visit churches during Visita Iglesia for devotees in the province. It also houses some important relics, furniture, and documents dating back to the 17th century in its in-house museum.



Located at the heart of Davao City, San Pedro Cathedral is the city’s oldest church and is said to have been established by the first Spanish settlers in the province back in 1847. It is currently serving as the seat of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Davao and is considered a National Cultural Treasure for its distinct architectural features including its curved roofing that resembles a vinta carrying a cross at the helm.


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Holy Week 2020: 5 Beautiful Churches From My Recent Travels

April 9, 2020, 5:54 am
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We celebrate Holy Week differently this year.

No palaspas last Palm Sunday. Masses were held in empty churches broadcasted to thousands of viewers all over the world thanks to Facebook Live. Meanwhile, our yearly Holy Week recollection with The Feast just started earlier today, also via Facebook Live.

And although it's a bit sad that my family (for the first time in decades!) can't go to our annual Visita Iglesia for Holy Thursday, I am also amazed by how technology can at least take us to places without leaving our homes.

I posted a Digital Visita Iglesia yesterday featuring Google Maps's Street View feature, but tonight let me take you to 5 of the beautiful churches I was able to visit during my recent travels. Feel free to add your own favorite churches in the comment box below, have a blessed Holy Week!




Church on the Water, Hokkaido

We visited this minimalist church with wide glass wall on one side, overlooking the snowy world outside--lone white cross standing at the center. I heard some of the girls in the group wanting to hold their wedding here, hehehe! This church is located inside the Hoshino Resorts Tomamu.

Taken during autumn, nighttime

Taken during winter, daytime


Miagao Church, Iloilo

Also known as the Santo Tomas de Villanueva Parish Church, the Miagao Church is located in no other than Miagao, Iloilo! Ang standout sakin while looking at this church is its outside design, sobrang detailed and hindi lang the usual na brick facade! I also learned that it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of our country's Baroque Spanish-era churches.





St. Joseph Church in Gasan

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










 St. Stephen's Basilica, Budapest 

A huge Catholic church, there is a souvenir shop in front where Ate bought stampitas and pendants for pasalubong. We also heard the mass, but it was held on the side and not on the main church. Ang konti ng church goers dito, and noticeable yung mga Pinoy.












St. Vitus Cathedral, Prague

Ate and I can actually stay in Prague without buying train cards, except that morning when we decided to visit St. Vitus Cathedral. Located within the Prague Castle Complex, I was so overwhelmed to see this Gothic Roman Catholic church, it's the first time I saw something like it.   Inside of the cathedral are the tombs of many Bohemian kings and Holy Roman Emperors. 











You can rewatch Day 1 of The Feast's Holy Week Recollection here:


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Discovering Jumunjin: BTS + Goblin Shooting Locations

April 10, 2020, 1:06 am
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Jumunjin was my next stop after 2 nights in Sokcho.

You'll rarely encounter Jumunjin in travel or Korea blogs. All I know is that Jumunjin is near Sokcho, a perfect stopover before heading back to Seoul especially for fan girls like me! You'll find two popular Hallyu shooting locations in this northeastern town of Gangneung City.



How To Go To Jumunjin From Sokcho

I took a bus from Sokcho to Gangneung. Then another bus from Gangneung to Jumunjin. It sounds tiring, but at that time my mind was focused on seeing snow (according to Accuweather). I used the waiting and traveling time to update my social media. Before I knew it, I was already in Jumunjin.


Travel time from Sokcho to Gangneung is only about an hour (almost same as when I go to events in Makati coming from Alabang), and only around 20 minutes from Gangneung to Jumunjin.

Bus fares cost KRW 7200 and KRW 2400 respectively. I bought my tickets on-the-spot at the ticket booths inside the bus terminals, no online reservations required.



The bus stop in Jumunjin is in front of a 7Eleven. I took this picture the next day when skies were already clear, but on the actual day of my arrival it was raining non-stop (no snow).

I was only carrying a small luggage and a light backpack, but holding a phone on one hand to make sure I am on the right track made navigating difficult under the rain and freezing weather.


And so after crossing the main road....


And a bridge...



...I finally spotted my home for a night in Jumunjin!


I know most travellers will prefer just a day-trip in Jumunjin, but if I can recommend just one guesthouse for my whole trip in Korea--Please do experience staying here in Kangdbang Guesthouse. I only paid Php 900+ for a night, inclusive of breakfast and other extra charges.

A cheery banner to welcome me on a rainy day:


Upon entering Kangdbang Guesthouse, the guesthouse owner (G.O.) welcomed me in a homey common room filled with books, magazines, and wooden fixtures. It looks straight out of Kinfolk.

G.O. showed me to my room, and handed me fresh sheets for my bed and pillows. We also toured around his humble guesthouse, while explaining the house rules.

After finding out that I haven't had lunch yet and that I'm a vegetarian, G.O. excused himself and bought packs of vegetarian ramyeun in a nearby convenience store even though it was a downpour! Dun palang, I was super ready to give this guesthouse a perfect 10 rating.







Hot ramyeun with egg was perfect for the rainy day. While having lunch, G.O. showed to me a map of sights and restos in Jumunjin, created and laminated by the G.O. himself for all his guests.

We also talked about Manila, my travel plans, and why I went to Jumunjin--to which G.O said that most of his guests have the same answers (because of the Goblin Breakwater and BTS Bus Stop, hehe).




It was way past lunch time, so I decided to head out after our meal. It was tempting to just stay put in the guesthouse and chill, but there's no time to waste!

If not for the rain, going around Jumunjin was a breeze. They only have one bus line stopping at both Jumunjin Beach and the Breakwater. I used my T-Money Card to pay for my bus fares.


BTS You Never Walk Alone Album Cover Location


Upon going down the bus, I immediately saw this BTS signage on the street. Btw! Both "BTS Bus Station" and "Jumunjin Breakwater" are on Google Maps!


  
Hay, imagine being at the beach, but with this overcast and cold weather. 😐


I finally saw it! It's not hard to spot the BTS Bus Stop! Coming from the main road, just walk to the beach, then turn left! There are restaurants (mostly closed) on the other side facing the beach. Would have been nice to hangout there.


  


Goblin's Breakwater

Took the same bus, but heading back towards the area my guesthouse, went down after 2 to 3 stops. 

I crossed the street to what I think is a school campus. Wala masyadong tao. Again, I just followed my maps app.




Then finally saw it! You'll know you're on the right breakwater when you see other tourists stop by and take photos. 4 years since the Kdrama ended, and this shooting location still gets attention! 😊





Something to consider: May harang na sya when I went there. Maybe it's because of the bad weather and HUGE waves.

It was difficult to take self-timer pictures coz walang mapapatungan (matatangay ng waves). I asked another solo traveler to take my photo, but pumatay yung camera ko so I settled for my phone! When I offered to take his photos too--he went inside the railings! Naloka ako while ako sa bungad lang nagpapic haha! So I had to follow him inside, and take his pictures in the middle of the breakwater. Inabutan tuloy yung shoes namin ng waves wah!


Thank you editing apps! I just removed the rails from my photo hehehe.


Decided to chill inside the 7Eleven cafe, located across the breakwater. Bought tissue, hot coffee, vitamin c, and rubber slippers that were too big for my feet. 😁




Decided to go back in my area, and looked for a place to eat dinner. Had hot soup in a family restaurant, one of the many recommendations of G.O. I remember having a hard time ordering from ajumma, so she called her daughter who helped me with my vegetarian noodles.

I was savouring my hot, home-cooked meal, while watching the news of the corona virus outbreak in some parts of Korea. Ajumma and daughter were conversing, with a tinge of worry in their voices.

After this meal, I bought my first KF94 mask in a supermart to replace the sponge mask I've been reusing since the start of my trip. Time for extra filters against the new virus!!

 

I almost bought a new pair of sneakers, but I can't find any shoe store in the area. I realized that you won't commonly see ABC Marts or western cafes like Starbucks here in Jumunjin, which is actually a breath of fresh air. Back in the guesthouse, G.O. recommended that I blowdry my shoes. No need to buy a new pair! 




After that, I had a hot bath so I won't get sick, and was ready to sleep. But before entering my room, G.O. introduced me to the guest who just arrived. He offered me to try Korean drinks!

Guest brought 2 bottles of Korean rice wine, products of the company he works for, which he generously shared to us. Ang sarap! I sat with G.O. and guest for a good hour, we talked about travels, Korean age, work life, and drinking culture. We compared Korean and Filipino drinking cultures including pulutan, tagay, and who should pour a drink for you. I was also asked about Philippines' own alcoholic drink aside from San Miguel, buti nalang naalala ko ang lambanog (coconut wine) to which one of them replied with "masiseoyo!"

Super nag-enjoy ako! Nahiya lang ako mag selfie coz baka di sila comfortable, sayang wala man lang akong souvenir na nanyari talaga yun hehehe!


Day 2

I was supposed to leave for Seoul in the morning, but decided to stay til the afternoon when I woke up to a better weather!

When I went out of my room, G.O. already prepared our breakfast. We had apple slices, toast, cereals mixed with nuts, boiled eggs, and coffee. Everything's good! Guest said, "He's a good guesthouse owner!"I second the motion!


It was warmer and brighter. Saw these shells stacked outside our guesthouse:




I have no other plans so I just went back to the Jumunjin Breakwater, to see it on a sunny day. Streets were still a bit damp, but I decided to just walk and walk since I wasn't in a hurry + I super missed the sun!




Saw the 7Eleven again, where I stayed yesterday:



Saw signages, shops, and instalments that I missed the other day:




Waves were still huge, and may harang parin sa Goblin breakwater. Just walked along the stretch of the beach, then decided to dine in one of the local shops.



I went for this gelato place. I love its interiors! Very clean, modern minimalist, and most importantly, all their seats face the sea so guests can enjoy the view while having gelato.



  


Here's the name of the gelateria: Chodang Gelato. Forgot what flavor I got, but I usually pick the hazelnut, salted caramel, or vanilla flavors.

I had a nice view of the Goblin breakwater from the 2nd floor:


Decided to continue my walking mode by the beach to the direction of my guesthouse. Then, half-heartedly, checked out from Kangdbang to catch the bus to Seoul.







Passed by this snowy area from the bus window:








⁣⁣⁣ I only had 24 hours to appreciate the beachtown of 𝐉𝐮𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐣𝐢𝐧—the gameplan was to see the 𝐁𝐓𝐒 𝐁𝐮𝐬 𝐒𝐭𝐨𝐩 and 𝐁𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐤𝐰𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐆𝐨𝐛𝐥𝐢𝐧. It was rainy when I got there via bus from Sokcho-Gangneung, hands freezing as I pulled my luggage to my guesthouse. 𝘎𝘪𝘯𝘶𝘴𝘵𝘰 𝘬𝘰 𝘵𝘰! 😅⁣⁣⁣ ⁣⁣⁣ Today, on my way back to the same bus stop but heading for Seoul, I was welcomed with warmth and sun. My sneakers are finally dry after getting wet from plunging into the breakwater, trying to jump away from the huge waves while taking pictures of this classic Kdrama location (Now or Never!)⁣⁣⁣ ⁣⁣⁣ Jumunjin was a short adventure, but unbelievably I still felt that tiny pierce in my heart whenever I say good bye to another city (have you felt that too before?). ⁣ ⁣ To puddles in front of the bus stop, newly launched local vegetarian ramyeun “on the house”, a sanctuary called 7Eleven cafe selling giant rubber slippers, to enjoying sool (Korean rice wine) at night with good conversations & orange as 𝘱𝘶𝘭𝘶𝘵𝘢𝘯, and finally seeing the beauty of the beach with the sun out, nutella gelato in one hand. ♥️ ⁣ ⁣ Thank you Jumunjin! Maybe I’ll encounter you again someday.⁣⁣⁣ ⁣⁣⁣ “𝐁𝐞𝐜𝐚𝐮𝐬𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐰𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐰𝐚𝐬 𝐠𝐨𝐨𝐝, 𝐛𝐞𝐜𝐚𝐮𝐬𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐰𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐰𝐚𝐬 𝐛𝐚𝐝 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐛𝐞𝐜𝐚𝐮𝐬𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐰𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐰𝐚𝐬 𝐠𝐨𝐨𝐝 𝐞𝐧𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡. 𝐈 𝐥𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐝 𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐲 𝐦𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐢𝐭.” - 𝘎𝘰𝘣𝘭𝘪𝘯⁣⁣ ⁣⁣ #koreanagon⁣⁣ #anagonvacation⁣⁣ #kdramatour⁣⁣ #goblin⁣⁣ #BTS⁣ #btsbusstop⁣ #youneverwalkalone⁣ #jumunjin
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COFIOCA: KPOP Stars' Favorite Bubble Tea Cafe in Korea

April 11, 2020, 10:59 pm
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I just got back from my out-of-Seoul adventures, and have no plans for the rest of the day. Not one to waste any minute when in Korea (or any trip for that matter), I went out by late afternoon to just go around my area--buy the stuff my friends requested, buy winter appropriate clothes coz nauubusan nako by this time, and maybe look for a place to have dinner.



I have no routes to follow, but passed by roads I seldom pass by the past days. From Garosugil, I found myself in other areas of Apgujeong and Gangnam. Spotted pretty stores, a Uniqlo sale, actual shops of brands that I only see online...




... And surprisingly, I passed by the famous Cofioca! 



Cofioca is Korea's first-ever tapioca bubble tea cafe. They've been in Seoul for 2 decades now! SM Entertainment trainees visit this small store in Apgujeong regularly, that Cofioca became a part of foreign Kpop fans' Seoul itinerary.

Here's the menu of Cofioca. You can ask for the favorite drink of your favorite artist, but I ordered Strawberry Colada just because I was there during nighttime and ordered the first caffeine-free drink I spotted. Next time I'd like to try their Coconut Milk Tea! 

Price range is from KRW 5000-7000 (Php 200-300).


Cup Sleeves, posters, signatures, fan art, and more! Aside from the good drink, I also enjoyed roaming my eyes around the store's tiny interiors overflowing with photos and messages from Kpop stars!


Ajumma handed me my drink with a Kai cupsleeve! I was already seated next to the counter, when someone was handing me something... They are Kai fan art stickers! Ang cute, huhu!



I was lucky that I went there nighttime, and was able to occupy one of the three tables of the store. Usually guests have to lineup and then takeout their drinks because of the limited space. But while I was there, there's only one other guest on the far table next to the door. 

EXO's Sehun in Cofioca, photo from EXO Updates.

Mid-drink, I decided to face the other wall and the TV screen. Here's a glimpse!

  




The TV was tuned to SBS News, which showed updates on the Corona Virus. It was only early February, but COVID19 was already spreading across South Korea. 


Ajumma changing the channel to a variety show:



I wasn't able to have dinner na after, so when I got back in my goshiwon, I ate the strawberries I bought from Jumunjin. Also got corn and Loacker wafers in a nearby convenience store coz I wasn't super hungry after the Strawberry Colada. It was enough to call it a good day. :) 


How To Go To Cofioca: 
Get down Apgujeong Rodeo Station, Exit 6
Follow Google Maps, Cofioca is next to a GS25 convenience store
Cofioca is open from 9:30am to 10pm



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Work (Out) From Home: My Favorite Fitness Videos

April 12, 2020, 4:05 am
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I have an on and off fitness life.

But when I do get hooked, my addiction lasts for weeks or even months that I'll even do it daily. Then there will be a disruption that usually comes in the form of a travel! This will make me pause my fitness life entirely.


There was a time that I was into hot yoga, but I relied in a yoga school or else I won't even practice it at home. I also had a phase of working out at home by going up and down our stairs for 3-5 songs, then doing planks in between. I also finished Crossfit 101, and that was the time when I was willing to commute all the way to Greenhills to attend my classes every other day. 

I think one of the best decisions I had for my fitness life is buying a LIFETIME gym membership when they had a promo 2 or 3 years ago (around Php 30k-ish, you can go to any of their branch na forever hehe!). I got lenient from time to time though, knowing that I can use my access anytime and it won't expire! 



Even before the Covid-19 Community Quarantine, I was already missing out on my fitness life because of all the events and work backlogs after staying in Korea for almost a month. That's why after settling in with the lockdown life, and feeling a bit sluggish for not going out, I decided to add working out for at least 30 minutes in my day. I haven't missed a day since I started last March 25!

I started with bad breathing and a heavy belly (hehehe) so I made sure to take it easy. Again, I wasn't in it for the vanity, I wanted to be healthy and strong--physically and even mentally! True enough, regular exercises helped a lot with my pandemic anxieties.

Sharing some of my favorite workout videos that you can try at home just to get the momentum starting! Feel free to share links if you have other fitness video recommendations in the comment box below! 😊

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Days 1-7: 

Started with simple yoga just to stretch my muscles and practice proper breathing.
I also added squats and sit-ups after doing the yoga

Favorite Home Yoga Youtuber: Yoga By Adriene

Yoga For Anxiety and Stress


Yoga for Complete Beginners


Yoga for Writers


Favorite Home Workout Youtuber: Chloe Ting

Days 8 - Onwards:

I levelled up by adding Chloe Ting's warm-up prior doing yoga. Later on, I tried other Chloe Ting workout videos after the warm-up, then ending with squats and sit-ups, then meditation.

Right now, I like doing Chloe Ting's warm-up + a combination of 2 of her workout videos.

Here are my favorites:

5 Min Warm Up Routine | Effective Warm Up Before ANY Workout



10 Min Standing Abs Workout to get Ripped ABS




Full Body No Jumping Workout To Burn Fat | Burn Thigh Fat Low Impact Cardio



Before hitting the showers, or even at night when I am about to sleep, I also got into a habit of listening to affirmations. They are also available on Youtube! I'll share one of my favorites, I used to play this every night when quarantine started in my country and I was having a hard time relaxing my mind or sleeping.

HEALTH Affirmations - Reprogram Your Mind (While You Sleep)



You should check out the other affirmations from their channel, they have Entrepreneur Success, Inner Child Healing, Trauma Healing, Anxiety Relief, and even ones on wealth and dreams!

I wish you a healthier mind and body amidst the chaos happening in the world right now. Make sure to also eat healthy and have quality sleep at night. Can't believe I'm saying this but yes, Kdrama can wait in the morning! 😂

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Things To Do in Ikseondong | Wear Vintage Costume In Seoul

April 14, 2020, 8:26 pm
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I've heard it so many times: There is more to Seoul than Myeongdong or Hongdae.

Last year, I was introduced to Ikseondong by one of my IG friends Ate Cris. On my first visit, I wasn't able to maximize my time there because of the huge local crowd, medyo na-overwhelm ako. But fortunately I had the chance to go back during my longer trip early this year.

Sharing some of the activities that you can do while you're in Ikseondong. Prepare you camera as it is a super photogenic neighborhood!


About Ikseondong

- One of Seoul's oldest neighborhoods, a hanok village dating from the 1920s.

- Currently a hotspot for Koreans for local cafes, restaurants, shops, and other small businesses. You won't see a big corporation skincare shop or famous western cafes here yet.

- How to get to Ikseondong: Take the Seoul subway to Jongno 3ga Station, Exit 4. Cross the street to the CU convenience store, and just walk to the right side street. You're already inside the alleys of Ikseondong!

- Most of the shops open at 11am-12nn. Get there as early as possible to avoid the afternoon crowds (especially for the popular restaurants).







1. Grab a Hotteok!

My recent favorite Korean street food is the hotteok, or sweet Korean pancakes! They are deep fried pancakes with different fillings like honey, sugar, walnuts, and even kimchi.

I love the savoury cream cheese variant I got from the first store I passed by in Ikseondong! A piece is at KRW 2000, served piping hot. 😍






2. Eat Dongbaek Fluffy Pancakes!

Walked a bit more from the hotteok stand, and saw the Dongbaek Yanggwajeong which serves fluffy souffle pancakes! According to the internet, Dongbaek is very popular at the moment so expect long cues before getting your table.

I was pressed with time because of an appointment in the area, but when I saw Dongbaek with no lines in the morning, I went in right away to order my strawberry souffle fluffy pancakes! They're a bit pricey at KRW 18,000 to 24,000 (around Php 1000), but really really goood! 🍓

To figure out the shop, keep an eye for the camellia flowers signage! It's also along the same alley as the right-side of CU where I entered.





3. Wear Vintage Costumes!

When you already have photos in a hanbok (Korean traditional costume), here's another option. Capture the Hotel Del Luna or Mr. Sunshine Korean drama vibe on your Ikseondong photos by wearing vintage outfits!

I was running late, but the shop was not strict naman when I arrived for my 1pm costume rental appointment in Ikseon Boutique. I only encountered around 3 groups in total during my whole stay in the shop, which made the experience of choosing your outfits and fitting more comfortable.




For the basic rate of Php 1164, you can try on 2 full outfits (dress or top and skirt), and then just choose one that you will wear for your photos. I am usually around XL-XXL in Korean sizing, so I am glad that they have clothes that fit me in this rental shop. 


There is a vanity section where you can fix your hair and makeup, and try on the different accessories. Inclusive in my package are the hair accessories (hats or headbands), gloves, necklaces, and a bag. 

Meanwhile, there is separate fee for the following:
Women Inner Top - KRW 5000
Underpants - KRW 3000
Stockings - KRW 2000
Socks - KRW 1000
Selfie Stick - KRW 3000
Smart Shutter - KRW 4000
Tripod - KRW 8000


They also do not provide shoes, so make sure to wear or bring a pair that will look nice with the dress, or just crop your picture like what I did! Hehe!


You can go out of the rental shop to take pictures on the streets of Ikseondong, but in my case, I just maximized the mini studio set-up that they have inside the shop. They have props and interiors that look straight out of the 1920s era. Okay na ako dito, since I can easily prop my self-timer camera on the desks and chairs. It was also winter time so medyo malamig to go out!






Other things to take note of:

- Bring your passport and KRW 5000 deposit for your rental (these will be returned after you surrender back the clothes and accessories)

- The store is open from 9:00am to 7:00pm daily. Do not exceed 10 minutes from your appointment time to avoid hassles or penalties

- Rental duration is for 3 hours

- Enjoy! Take lots of pictures AND don't forget to shoot videos too! 



4. Hangout in a Hotel Del Luna Location 

I finished with the whole dress-up activity after about 2 hours, and was ready for another round of Ikseondong cafe hopping. I was looking for a bread place, when I remember this tall pink building from my last visit!

Hotel Seine, a 6-floor cafe dressed as a vintage hotel, is one of the shooting locations for Hotel Del Luna!





Screenshots from episode 11, where Hotel Del Luna in the 1980s accepted newlywed human guests in their hotel during lunar eclipse.






The cafe looks intimidating at first, with the fancy red carpets, glum lighting, and the baristas dressed to the nines. But I pushed with it anyway, this time I can't leave Ikseondong without dining here!

You have to place your order at the "hotel concierge" before you can go around. Sharing Hotel Seine's menu for your reference:


Photos around Hotel Seine. Spot traces of Hotel Del Luna:












I really love this series, and consider it as part of my Top 10!

5. Ikseondong Shops Hopping

Lastly, make sure to take your time and really go inside the cafes and boutiques of Ikseondong. They have nifty finds like local perfumes, specialty breads, traditional tea shops, modern hanboks, and handmade jewelries.



There's a When The Camellia Blooms shooting location here too!

One of the interesting Ikseondong shops is a perfumery, where the saleslady slipped a knotted cream lace bracelet on my wrist after spraying it with one of their signature scents. It's so simple but also very memorable. If I live in Korea, I'll most prob go back to this store to get the scent.

I just love the aesthetics and marketing ideas of these local businesses. It sparked my long-time dream of setting up my own shop.





Watch more here: 
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Korean Themed Party Ideas | Happy Birthday Dad!

April 15, 2020, 11:29 pm
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This year, our country is on Enhanced Community Quarantine when Dad celebrated his 66th birthday. Since there's now way we're going out to celebrate, we decided to just take out our indoor grill for a Korean themed dinner at home!

A day before dad's birthday, Ate went out for the grocery run. It was Easter, but she went out as early as possible (around 7:30am) to beat the long lines in our nearest grocery. She said that she heard mass online while waiting! Ate also dropped by a Korean mart to get kimchi and other stuff that are soldout in the normal grocery. 

That night, my family dressed up as if we're heading out. At the last minute, I decided to cook cheesy kimchi rice. We were busy taking turns in the kitchen, and by past 7pm, we settled in our dining area to celebrate another year in my dad's life. 

Sharing pictures from our humble home last April 13:


Ate is the main girl in the kitchen, mom's helper when it comes to our daily menu especially the past weeks we're on quarantine. Even 90% of this Korean party is her idea. 

She prepared some of the Korean side dishes like the cucumber kimchi and the japchae (glass noodles), and then pre-cooked the samgyupsal 30 minutes before dinnertime so the guests will just have to seat, eat, and enjoy. 




Meanwhile, here's my impromptu kimchi rice contribution! Basically, if you have kimchi and cooked rice--you can easily make this at home too! 

But to add more flavor to your kimchi rice, you can also toss in garlic, sesame oil, sesame seeds, nori strips, grated cheese, and top the whole thing with sunny side up!


The bottles of soju I bought from before was put into use.


𝐆𝐫𝐨𝐜𝐞𝐫𝐲 𝐋𝐢𝐬𝐭 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐃𝐈𝐘 𝐊𝐨𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐧 𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐲:⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣

⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣ • Electric Grill for the Meat⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣
• Samgyupsal, Beef, Pork, Etc.⁣ 
 • Lots of Kimchi⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣ 
• Lots of Lettuce⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣ 
• Garlic⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣ 
• Sesame Oil & Seeds⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣ 
• Gochujang⁣ (Korean sauce)⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣ 
• Nori Sheets⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣ 
• Egg⁣⁣⁣ 
• Soju⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣ + Yakult
• Cheese / Melted Cheese⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣ ⁣
• Noodles: Spicy Ramyeun, tteokbokki, or Japchae ⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣ 
• Other Veggie Side Dish: Like corn, cucumber, radish⁣, bean sprouts⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣ 
• Dessert: Banana Milk or Korean ice cream⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣

𝗪𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐁𝐮𝐲:⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣ 
Korean mart, international section of groceries, Famulei Mart on Shopee⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣



Ate baked dad's chocolate cake, too!



We had a feast! And the most important part is that the birthday celebrant enjoyed! The next day, dad said he has the birthday hangover, haha!

Every year, we always eat out to celebrate dad's birthday in a favorite or to try a new restaurant. This year may seem different, but it honestly feels the same for me. I guess it's true that as you grow older, you won't need much to call it a good birthday. To be blessed with another year, enjoy a life with the best of health, and to share it with the people you love are the essence of a happy happy birthday. ❤


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INCHEON TRAVEL BLOG: Chinatown, Fairytale Village, and Goblin Shooting Location

April 18, 2020, 12:14 am
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Prior this trip, the only thing I know about Incheon is that it is the city where we go to and from South Korea's main airport.

I'm already more than half-way for this trip when I decided to explore Incheon beyond the Incheon International Airport. Sharing some of the places I was able to go to during that short visit!


I remember getting lazier by the day, hehe! I think I went out past lunchtime na.

My usual brunch in my room. Instant vegetable lugaw that you can microwave, then I top it with boiled egg and nori strips. Everything conveniently available in CU or 7Eleven, so I have a lot of this in my ref.

Messy desk situation. I usually just plan my day in the morning by reading blog tips or watching Youtube videos.

I used my Seoul Metro app to navigate my way to Incheon Station. After two transfers, I was in Line 1 where Incheon Station is. It will take more than 10 stops before Incheon, so I decided to just chill from my seat.

I think I was editing an IGTV episode, when I decided to look up from my phone just to check the station. Nagulat ako! The next station was in SUWON, which is not in my app na! I hopped out of the train right away, sat on a bench to figure out what went wrong. 😁


The Seoul Subway did a Tokyo Subway on me, haha! I was still in Line 1, and nope hindi ako lumagpas ng Incheon Station, but there's a station where I was supposed to go down to transfer to another Line 1 train (Guro Station) just across it to get to Incheon. 😅 So confusing!



Anyway, after the detour, finally! It's time to explore a city we've known for the longest time only by its name!



Incheon Facts

- South Korea's 3rd or 4th largest city, almost like Seoul minus the congestion

- Literal meaning: Kind River

- Coastal area, located northwest of South Korea

- Major transportation hub in northeast Asia, with Incheon International Airport and Incheon Port

- Where the Korean food jjajangmyeon (black soy bean noodles) was born

- Popular personalities born in Incheon: Actors Ku Hye-sun (Boys Over Flowers) and Go Kyung-pyo (Reply 1988, Chicago Typewriter), and Kpop Idols Bang Minah of Girl's Day, Yerin of GFriend, Park Choa of AOA, and Jeno of NCT Dream.

1. Incheon's Chinatown

Incheon's Chinatown used to be an area for trading goods from China. Today, most stores there are restaurants.

It's easy to spot Incheon Chinatown coming from Incheon Station... Just go out Exit 3 and you'll see the arch called Paeru across the street:







During my visit, most of the stores were closed and the streets were empty. From my online research, they say that this is a bustling area. I only saw one big tour group and that's about it.

There are cute cafes within the area, and Ava recommended one to me which I reserved after walking around the area first.



Things To Do in Incheon's Chinatown:

1. Wiseondang - only remaining Chinese style temple in Korea.
2. Samgukji Mural Street - wall murals of Chinese fables
3. Jayu Park - a piece of nature in the city
4. Jjajangmyeon Museum
5. Gong Hwa Chun - where you can eat original jjajangmyeon!
6. Try the different street foods!








2. Songwol-dong Fairy Tale Village 

At the end of Incheon Chinatown, I saw the Fairy Tale Village next. This is where I saw a bit of tourists taking photos by the photogenic houses, benches, and random wall murals.

Like Busan's Gamcheon Culture Village and Jeonju's Jaman Mural Village, Incheon's Fairy Tale Village was created by the government to attract more people from coming over a once dilapidated village.













3. Cafe Break At C27 Cheesecake and Coffee

After all the walks, I decided to take a break at the cafe Ava mentioned in our groups. C27 Cheesecake and Coffee is an attraction in itself! It has 4 floors, and every level is so pretty (or "Instagramable", hehe). When I finished my coffee and cheesecake, I decided to go around and take pictures. They also have a rooftop area.

I found out that this cafe is not Incheon exclusive, you can also try C27 Cheesecake and Coffee when you're in Seoul (Sinsadong and Hongdae). But I like that I was able to visit them here where it's not super packed with people! Was able to comfortably take nice photos:





It was challenging to choose just one from the 27 different cheesecake variants that they offer! I picked the Mousse Cheesecake (턱시도무스 치즈케이크) coz I've always loved the smooth texture of mousse cakes!



Every corner has a theme! If I was with my blog friends in this empty cafe, for sure we will have tons of pictures! Haha! No wonder C27's tagline is “amusement park for women”!

Thank God for mirrors and reflections:






4. Goblin Kdrama Location

While chilling in C27, I was able to Google for nearby Kdrama locations. The yellow bookstore in Goblin popped up, which is just a bus away from where I was. I decided to go for it and make the most of my travel in Incheon.


I love that you'll know you're on the right area because of these street posters!


I just typed "Hanmi Bookstore" in my Google Maps, and followed the directions. I also saw other second-hand bookstores along the street leading to the yellow shop.


Yey! Found it!



Like almost all the time, had difficulty setting up my camera for a self-timed photo in a Kdrama location. Ang dyahe for this coz I had to prop my phone across the street for this shot. And sometimes cars or bicycles will pass-by! Hehehe! 

There was a time that an ahjussi from across the street went out of his shop and was having a very long phone call, so sobrang awkward for me to pose and stuff. Haha! But anyway, I only had one take which is the picture above, and I think it came out nice for a phone self-timed shot!

A few details of the store. They have printed pictures of the scenes in Goblin displayed on their glass windows:




Was too shy to go in, huhu! Coz walang tao! Now I am regretting not getting anything from the shop for souvenir.


Screenshots from the Goblin. Hanmi Bookstore is Kim Shin's tambayan, and where he often waits for Eun-tak to pass by.



A nearer train station from Hanmi Bookstore is Dongincheon Station Exit 3. Walked here instead of riding the bus back again to Incheon Station.

###

Heading Back to Seoul

It was a short trip (coz I started late hehe), and I am sure there's still so much to see in Incheon. Headed back to Seoul before it gets dark. Did not get lost this time, hehe!

The passing view from the train's window made it seem like I am watching a Korean drama from a huge screen:


Went to Garosugil for dinner in School Food, which is above my favorite stop during this trip: Artbox!



Yoon Se-ri / Noona:

Steaming hot plate of Kimchi Rice to wrap the productive day:


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Korean Drama Actors in Manila: My 10 Korean Actor Fan Meeting Experiences

April 19, 2020, 11:07 pm
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My KDrama friends call 2016 as the most recent "Golden Year of Korean Drama". It was the year when there's a sudden surge of new Korean drama fans because of the awesome lineup that introduced (or reintroduced) us back to this world.

There's W Two Worlds, Legend of the Blue Sea, Cheese in the Trap, K2, Hwarang, Descendants of the Sun, and Scarlet Heart Ryeo. I think even the well-loved Reply 1988 lasted till 2016. But from my observation, the most popular Kdrama that pulled in new fans would have to be Goblin. Even local actresses like Anne Curtis and Sharon Cuneta were hooked!



Some of the well-loved 2016 Korean dramas:


The series that reintroduced me to this wonderful world!


As for me, 2016 reintroduced me to Kdrama because of Love in the Moonlight. Since then, I watched all the dramas that friends will recommend. I also watched whatever is featured in the Top 10 of a streaming site where I used to watch before.

My all-time favorite from 2016, Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok Joo!


Some Korean fans end their fan girling on their laptop screens, while there are some na isinabuhay na ang Korean drama.

I think they coined the term "Kinain na ng sistema" for people like me. 😂 Around 90% of my skincare are from Korean brands I've seen in a series, or endorsed by a Korean actress, to think I don't even have a regimen prior this phase in my life.

I also have a Spotify playlist for my favorite Kdrama songs, and a collection of plushies and random Korean drama merch in my room.

I think my biggest fan girl moment was when I went on a Kdrama shooting location pilgrimage last 2017. Since then, a trip to Korea was not complete without a quick stop in a Kdrama location.







In 2017, Korean actors suddenly decided to include Manila in their fan meetings! Of course hindi ko to pinalagpas unless I wasn't in the country! Sharing a compilation of the fan meetings I've been to for the past 3 years.

(Arranged by date)


1. Park Shin Hye

"Life of a fan girl has been good this year, noh? ❤ I am grateful for all these big and small happy moments, as they say, appreciate--and all these good vibes will come rushing your way! To MORE MORE MORE real-life kdrama moments for all of us. 😌"

Park Shin Hye in Manila 2017: Concert + Meet and Greet



2. Nam Joo Hyuk

"In his letter to his fans, Nam Joo Hyuk mentioned something like "thank you for loving the imperfect me". I am inspired by Korean idols who remain so humble, trying so hard to reach out to their fans despite their status. I think I'll end this extra long post with that lesson: to keep reaching high for your dreams but remain grounded."

Nam Joo Hyuk Fan Meet Manila 2017 (With Videos) + The Feels Of A Former "Team Bahay"


3. Kim Jisoo

"If there’s one thing I picked up from #JisooInManila fan meet it’s to work hard even when you always only land as the second lead. You will have your chance, just have faith, & be grateful to people who support you. ♥️ Your time will eventually come.. Love you Jisoo!!!!"

Jisoo In Manila: The Press Conference
Jisoo In Manila: The Fan Meet! + Second Lead Syndrome




4. Jung Hae In

"Marami-rami narin akong nainvest (haha) sa mga fan meetings nato, to the point that I even go alone just to see my favorite Korean stars in the flesh. I always pick the best seat that I can afford, although medyo pricey lang talaga noh? I think now that I am just looking back on it, I still have no regrets that I made a once in a lifetime moment like this happen to me. I was happy that day."

Jung Hae In in Manila: #SarangHaeInManila Fan Meeting


5. Lee Jong Suk

"I love how he values his craft and his fans. And I will forever remember what he said before leaving the stage that night:

"You guys are my pride." 

We left Araneta with big smiles on our faces, thank you Lee Jong Suk!!!"

Lee Jong Suk in Manila!


6. So Ji Sub

"So Ji Sub's fan meeting isn't the usual! I thought I've seen enough Korean actor meet and greets, but his was on another level: the second half of the show was his concert! Who would have known So Ji Sub is a great rapper, he has swag!"

So Ji Sub in Manila Fan Meeting


7. Lee Sung Kyung

"Love Lee Sung Kyung 100x more after this fan meeting!!! Super fun, and ang talented nyaaaa!!! ♥️"


8. Park Seo Joon

"Kdrama actor Park Seo Jun’s Fun Meet for Bench! Sharing this happy night for this Kdrama fan girl. :)"



9. Cha Eun Woo

"Will people find me weird? Do I know someone who can go with me to the events? I don't actually care as long as this makes me happy.  Oh well, I guess that's what you call a fan girl's heart. ❤"

A Fan Girl's Heart | Cha Eun Woo in Manila!


10. Park Hae Jin

"After taking his time to chew the sticky rice cake Sapin-Sapin, he asked the audience, “Why is it sweet?”, to which the host Sam Oh replied to with, “Because our love for you is there.”

The actor smiled giddily, and took a bigger spoonful of the rice cake saying, “Then I will finish all of it.”

I guess the Filipinos found their way to sunbaenim’s heart!"

Park Hae Jin Tries Signature Filipino Dishes: “Masarap!” (article for Kdramabuzz)


What To Expect in a Fan Meeting:

Fan meetings with Korean actors include interviews, song or dance number, or other talent segments like cooking, crafting, or skits with lucky fans.

Most fan meets I've been to also have games with random fans, reading of letter, selfies, local fan projects, and usually end with a hi-touch (quick hi-five with the actor onstage) and group photo session (around 10 to 20 per photo) with limited number of fans based on the ticket perks that you purchased.





I haven't been lucky in all these fan meetings, but during Lee Sung Kyung's, the ticket number of the person seated right next to me was drawn to have a Polaroid with the actress onstage! Kongting konti nalang!! But naniniwala ako na someday my time will come! 😁



Through fan meetings, you get to see the other side of your favorite Korean oppa or unnie--usually their funny or quirky side. It's also their way of reaching out and giving back to their fans for supporting their projects, and also to promote upcoming shows.





In Manila, ticket prices range from Php 2000 for balcony seats to around Php 10,000 to Php 12,000 for VIP/VVIP. Around 2 years ago, I got my VVIP ticket for only Php 5000. I think it got expensive last year because of the high demand, or I guess depending on the venue and the popularity of the actor.





If you're lucky, brands such as Bench or Penshoppe also organize fan meetings with Korean actors. Tickets for these type of fan meets are in the form of product purchase. So technically, you buy stuff from their store, and seating will depend on the amount of your purchase. I did this for Park Shin Hye and Park Seo Joon.




I think 2020 is another Golden Year for Kdrama. There's Crash Landing on You and Parasite. Netflix also started to show more Korean drama selections, making it more accessible for new and old fans to watch Korean series. Sadly, it's impossible to have fan meetings anytime soon because of the corona virus. So to Kdrama fans batch 2020, sharing to you my own little world for the past years.

I look forward to that day when we can go to Araneta, MOA Arena, or the intimate New Frontier or SM Skydome together to watch our oppas and unnies sing or dance, cook, play games, or even hug their fans! Maybe on the next one, we will be the lucky ones called for a stage participation! 😁

I was lucky to get invited for the Lee Jong Suk fan meeting as a blogger, thank you Pulp Live World!

ASTRO and Cha Eun Woo light sticks up during the actor/idol's soldout Manila fan meeting:

Solo flight in 80% of the fan meetings I've been to, but you won't feel alone when you're with fellow fans! Poster and flower wreath are gifts from fan groups to fellow fans:

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2019 Kdrama Tour + Tips on How To Spot Korean Drama Shooting Locations

April 24, 2020, 11:24 pm
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Even when on a Kdrama lie-low last year, I was able to catchup a bit from my list. My 2019 favorites include Hotel Del Luna, Touch Your Heart, Rookie Historian Goo Hae Ryung, Love Alarm, Encounter, and When The Camellia Blooms.

In this post, I'm sharing three 2019 Kdrama spots I was able to visit in a day, and how you can spot them too!

Brunch in a Hotel Del Luna Location

Cafe in Ddeurak is the typical Kdrama location that people suddenly dash to even though it doesn't necessarily have any significance to the Korean drama's storyline.

Jang Manwol, IU's character, just passed by this cafe while following Goo Chan-sung. It's the part where she was balancing on a brickwall, the facade of the cafe as background.



This is the scene from Hotel Del Luna. Sadly, I can't take the exact pictures from HDL coz in real life when I was there, someone's painting the floorings in front of the brick wall!



Since it's a cafe, I decided to go in for brunch. It's my first stop of the day, and I am definitely starving!

I usually take a break whenever I go to a restaurant shooting location, just to make the most of the time I spent commuting to the place. For Cafe in Ddeurak, I walked for about 15-20 minutes to get there from the train station. I won't waste my time just to look at it or take pictures from the outside.




Even for non-kdrama fans, Cafe in Ddeurak turned out to be a nice homey space with cute vintage interiors. I ordered a hot latte and coffee bun from the ajussi at the counter. The cafe was empty when I went in, but it was packed when I was about to go out.




How to go to Cafe in Ddeurak:
Go down Anguk Station, Exit 1. Follow Google Maps, walk is about 15-20 mins.

I was passing by a residential area on my way back to Anguk Station when I saw a huddle of people in one corner. I walked passed them, and didn't even look.

I was about 2 blocks away when I looked back out of curiosity, and saw cameras, heavy equipment, staff running around in their long puffer jackets, and a crowd across the street with their camera phones out. I missed an actual shoot by an inch!



Bookstore from Romance is a Bonus Book

My next stop was the bookstore featured in Romance is a Bonus Book. I really like this Kdrama coz it's about writers, novels, and noonas!

IRL, Arc N Book is a pretty bookstore located at the basement of a corporate building called Buyong Eulji. Aside from books, they also have a nice selection of stationeries and Kpop albums. It also has nice hallways filled with books from floor to ceiling, forming an arch. Even non-Kdrama fans will find them fascinating!



Got myself the postcard of the girl in red plaid top by the beach. It reminds me of my walks in Jumunjin Beach!



BTS and ASTRO albums, side-by-side:


Screenshots from the Kdrama Romance is a Bonus Book:



How to go to Arc-N-Book:

Go down Euljiro 1-ga Station, Exit 1-1. Go to the basement of Buyong Eulji Building.

Snow in Seoul

I was inside the bookstore when I saw the locals peeping outside the glass window. Snowfall! I went out right away to enjoy my first snow for this winter trip. I decided to walk around the area, and saw a skating rink, a huge I-Seoul-U sign, and the old Seoul City Hall.






School in Extra-Ordinary You

After the snowfall was the rain. It was cold, and I was hungry, but I decided to make one last stop before calling it a day. I decided to go to Seuli High School, or the campus of Eun Dan-oh and Haru in Extraordinary You!


Yonsei University is such a beautiful school, like most campuses I've been to in Korea (Ehwa, Keimyung University, etc). Walk from the train station was so far though, but you'll pass by a lot of shops and food chains along the way.

I made a stop in a Subway to rest my feet and have late lunch. I had the egg sandwich, and sat on the table by the window facing outdoors. It made me imagine random "what ifs".. What if I studied here in Korea? What if I go back to school? Ahhh, it's nice to dream a little.



Aside from Extraordinary You's Seuli High School, Yonsei University is also featured in Romance is a Bonus Book as Hanguk University, where Lee Jong Suk's character taught literature.





How to Go to Yonsei University:

Go down Sinchon Station, Exit 2 or 3
Follow Google Maps (prepare for long walk!)

Other Kdrama Locations I went to for this trip:

Skating rink in Love Alarm
1980s Hotel Del Luna
Sokcho hotel featured in Encounter
Itaewon Class
Goblin Breakwater
Yellow Bookstore in Goblin

How to Spot Korean Drama Locations

Before, I used to look for Korean drama locations by searching for the real name of a school or restaurant. Then I search these names on Google Maps or Naver.

Nowadays, looking for the Kdrama location is easier with the website called Korean Dramaland! It is a site where thousands of filming spots were already published by different Kdrama fans all over the world, categorized by Titles, Subway Station, Neighborhood, and even by category (Cafe, Parks, Hotels, Schools, etc.)

Some tips when going to a Kdrama location:

1. Prepare for long walks, especially if it's a school, park, or residential area.

2. Make the most of your time in the location not only by taking photos and videos, but also by fully experiencing it. Dine in the resto, read books and buy souvenirs in the bookshop, stay a little longer on a park bench, etc.

3. Practice basic etiquette and be aware of photo and filming restrictions.

4. If you can't find it on Google Maps, try Naver app too!

Read More Here: http://www.anagonzales.com/2018/10/in-nutshell-slides-from-my-kto-and.html

Watch Here:







⁣ 𝘏𝘰𝘵𝘦𝘭 𝘋𝘦𝘭 𝘓𝘶𝘯𝘢, 𝘙𝘰𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦 𝘪𝘴 𝘢 𝘉𝘰𝘯𝘶𝘴 𝘉𝘰𝘰𝘬, 𝘌𝘹𝘵𝘳𝘢-𝘖𝘳𝘥𝘪𝘯𝘢𝘳𝘺 𝘠𝘰𝘶 • ⁣ ⁣ Thought yesterday will be uneventful since my original plan of watching 𝐒𝐁𝐒 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐒𝐡𝐨𝐰 was cancelled by the tour agency. But here some places I was able to go to and the good things that happened:⁣ ⁣ • Dined in a cafe featured in 𝐇𝐨𝐭𝐞𝐥 𝐃𝐞𝐥 𝐋𝐮𝐧𝐚 ⁣ • Spotted a drama shoot!⁣ • 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐫 𝐀𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐮𝐞 (EXO, BTS, TWICE, etc)⁣ • Bookstore from 𝐑𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐢𝐬 𝐚 𝐁𝐨𝐧𝐮𝐬 𝐁𝐨𝐨𝐤⁣ • It started 𝐬𝐧𝐨𝐰𝐢𝐧𝐠! ❄️⁣ • School in 𝐄𝐱𝐭𝐫𝐚-𝐎𝐫𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝐘𝐨𝐮⁣ ⁣ #KdramaTour⁣ #AnagonVacation⁣ #KoreAnagon⁣ #hoteldelluna⁣ #romanceisabonusbook⁣ #extraordinaryyou⁣
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Korean School Uniform Rental in Seoul | Produce 101, Produce 48, Etc.

April 29, 2020, 12:54 am
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I booked all my rental and tour activities prior this Seoul trip. And to be honest, days prior my Korean High School Rental schedule, I was already regretting why I availed this! Haha!


You see, I am already (gets calculator to compute) 34 years old, way too old to look like a high schooler! I was doubting if I can pull this off! But since I won't get any refunds if I decided to not show up, might as well just get over it right?

Anyway, I was able to move my appointment from morning to 1pm, just enough time to have brunch in a Paris Baguette before looking for the rental place at the same building. Sakto din it is located in Jamsil, hindi ko pa masyado naeexplore this area in Seoul so that's my game plan for the whole day after the school uniform activity.


FAQs:

1. The name of the activity in Klook is Ehwa Korean School Uniform Rental Experience. 

2. Rate is Php 787 (from Php 829) for 1 day rental. They also offer rentals for 2 days (Php 995) and 3 days (Php 1202).

3. Ehwa School Uniform is near Lotte World, Seokchon Lake, and Jamsil Hangang Park. You can shoot your school girl pictures in these locations, or just stay in their classroom studio.

Here's how the lobby area looks like. I love the interiors of this rental space, very clean, bright pastels, and youthful!


4. You have to submit your passport and a KRW 5000 deposit for the rental, to be handed back when you return the clothes and accessories. 

5. They also have an open shelf or "locker" where you can leave your bag, clothes, etc.

Now let's head in the Uniform Room!

6. Fortunately, Ehwa School Uniform is very size friendly. They have clothes from XS to XXL.

7. You will need to pay extra for the following: Inner top, underpants, blazer, stockings, over knee socks, selfie sticks, tripods, etc. 

Again, shoes are not available so wear something that will look good with the outfit (or just crop your feet from your shots).

8. Just like my vintage outfit rental experience, you can try on 2 sets of uniforms, but can only go out and take pics with one set.


I asked help from the lady at the Uniform Room for XL pieces, and she handed me a white polo, black vest, and plaid skirt. She also helped me find a matching blazer (separate rental fee). 

Hindi ko style talaga to and was freaking out inside, haha! But I think the blazer neutralized the girly vibe of this type of uniform!


Btw, I was decided na with the black ensemble, but I also saw this pink Produce 48 uniform. Brought it with me at the fitting room for my Option B perks.


They also have backpacks for rent, but since I was already carrying my Anello for this trip, pass nalang so I don't have to pay extra pa. 


Selection of neckties, bows, and cute headbands, all included in the fee. 


The cute vanity area where you can retouch your hair and makeup. They have hair tools that you can use for free.



After everything, it's time to take pictures! Again, just like the vintage rental, I just maximized their studio so I don't have to go out na. 

Ehwa School Uniform has this cute purple and pink classroom set-up for their studio! Wala ding tao while I was there (everyone na kasabayan ko sa fitting went out for their shoot) so yey!


Renting a blazer was a good idea, parang I have two outfits na! I also used all the props available in the room like the children's books and the Produce 48 light stick.

How I took these pictures? I just propped my phone tripod on one of the desks, and took self-timer shots. ❤


  


Nung sawa na ako sa classroom, I also took advantage of the fitting room! They have 3 fitting cubicles with different color themes, ang cute!


I also took pictures inside the vanity section:


My School Life Trivia:

1. I studied in an all-girls high school from prep to high school.

2. In college, I took up AB Journalism at the University of Santo Tomas. I started blogging during those years coz all I did was write write write.

3. I wore school uniform from preschool to college. I was not a fan then, but now I realized that it was convenient not to think of what to wear to school everyday.

4. My org when I was in grade school til high school was Art Club. In my 4th year, I became the Art Club president.

5. These are the 3 schools and courses that I passed for my college entrance exam: Ateneo De Manila (Interdisciplinary Studies), UP Los Baños (Mass Communication), and UST (Journalism). 


I was an average student, and I'm glad my parents have always been supportive and never the pressure cooker type. 

I also got involved in a lot of extra-curricular activities like theater, TV prod, and even yoga, plus other out-of-school stuff like writing for Candy Magazine, sell my handmade accessories, etcetera. 

I was also very ma-barkada, had lots of circle of friends from high school, Candy, college, orgs, etc. I had a lot of fun during my youth! ❤


Even though I was doubtful at first, it's actually nice to look at these pictures of me wearing a high school uniform once again! It brought back lots of memories of my school life, and it also makes me wonder what if I studied in Seoul??


Try the Ehwa Korean School Uniform Rental Experience.
B1 floor 36-27, 40 Jamsil-dong, Songpa-gu, Seoul
Jamsil Station Exit 4
Open daily from 9:00am-10:30pm

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KPop Dance Class in Seoul (For Beginners)

April 29, 2020, 11:22 pm
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I almost backed out from my 1-Day K-Pop Dance Class in Seoul! I was so nervous as the day of my schedule was nearing. I was already planning to just drop it, but I already paid Php 1950 for the fee!



On the day of the Kpop dance workshop, I made sure I have nothing else to do in the morning. I went out a little early so I can still eat, and not be late for the class. I was half wishing I'll get lost looking for the studio lol, but it was so easy to locate! By following the directions they sent to us, I was in Fanxy Studio around 10 minutes before our class.





Participants came in the class in groups and solo (like me). Sunny, Fanxy studio's host, welcomed us with water bottles, and asked us to register on a laptop. I met new friends from all over the world, young and old. Most of the guests are tourists like me. I was grouped with a couple from France, and a mom from Hong Kong.



The room is very spacious, has dedicated shelves for all our things, and a wide dance floor with floor to ceiling mirror in front. The rest are glass walls overlooking the streets outside, so yep people can see us while dancing if they look up the second floor. 😅





FAQs:

1. Klook rate is Php 1950 (from Php 2075) for the 3-hour class.

This includes a warm-up, step-by-step dance instructions, repetition of all the steps, group practice, and culminating activity where they will record us dancing by group (video to be emailed in a week).

2. KPop dance routines differ everyday. They list the schedule on their page in Klook around a week prior.

Some of the dance routines taught last February and March: Hip by Mamamoo, Dance The Night Away by Twice, Boy with Luv by BTS, Kill This Love by Blackpink, Dalla Dall by ITZY, Feel Special by Twice, On by BTS.

They choose the music according to popularity, date of release, and degree of difficulty (must be easy for beginners to learn).



3. Age requirement to join the class is 10 years old and above. Rate is same for adults and children.

4. A class should have at least 1 student, and maximum of 20 participants.

5. Teacher is a professional dancer and can communicate in English. The dance is a bit difficult for me, but through her patience and teaching method, I was able to pick-up at least 70% of the steps, and then decently dance for our vid.



Tips:

1. Make sure to bring extra clothes. I was there during winter time, but that doesn't mean you'll not sweat after dancing!

2. They will provide 1 water bottle for each participant. If you think this is not enough, then make sure to bring more.

3. Check the scheduled dance online before enrolling. I paid for my slot a month prior my trip so they have no list of schedule yet, and just saw which song I got for the date I enrolled about a week before the class. Would have wanted to dance to Kill This Love or something easier or more familiar pa! I got a hard one instead-- Hip by Mamamoo! It was fun though!

4. Wear comfortable and appropriate clothes! I wore a pull-over, jogging pants, sneakers, and cap.

5. Lastly, remember na walang makakakita sayo after this! And you're not aiming to be a Kpop star after this! As the lady from Hong Kong said to me, "I am here for fun!"

Do not be intimidated, almost everyone in class are beginners. Enjoy, just do it, take your personal photos and videos for memories! (So sorry, no videos for this post haha!)

If given the chance I actually might enrol again! ❤ It's a nice alternative activity when in Seoul.

Aside from the music video, they also gave us an Instax print of our class picture after our session! I love that they have souvenirs of our experience.


Join a K-Pop Dance Class in Seoul (For Beginners)

Class Schedule:
Weekdays: 7:30pm to 10pm
Saturdays: 1:30pm to 4pm
Sundays and Korean holidays: 11:30am to 2pm, 2:30pm to 5pm

How To Go:
502-10 Changcheon-dong. Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Sinchon Station Exit 1, walk straight for 5-7minutes.

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Yoojung Sikdang: Rookie BTS Go-To Restaurant in Seoul

May 1, 2020, 8:11 pm
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When I joined the BTS locations tour, one of our stops is a lunch in Yoojung Sikdang.

Yoojung Sikdang is popular amongst BTS fans as this restaurant used to be the go-to place for the boys during their rookie years. In fact, during our BTS tour, we just walked from the resto going to the old Big Hit building! I was imagining OT7 walking the very same streets before.

Sadly, Yoojung Sikdang was closed when I first visited with the tour group because of the Seollal holiday.



Babies! Pictures of the boys eating in Yoojung Sikdang:

After the holiday, I had out of city trips so I forgot about going back to the restaurant. I think it was on the night of my first day back in Seoul when I searched for Yoojung Sikdang's location on my Google Maps coz the street sounded familiar.

Yoojung Sikdang turned out to be walking distance from my guesthouse!

It's a bit of a walk, around 10-15 minutes, but doable:

Around my guesthouse are music schools and small agency buildings:


I just walked straight till I reach this street with Yoojung Sikdang's signage, which has the 2 black pigs and green strike background:


First visit, Yoojung Sikdang was closed but since I was with a tour group, I was able to get a decent solo picture, thanks to my new ARMY friends!



Anya, my ARMY tour friend from Indonesia! 

Went on my own during my second visit, just to check if it is really walkable from my place. It was still closed, I think it was the Monday after Seollal.

Third visit and I finally got lucky!

Btw, I always go a little before lunch, which is usually the time I go out of the guesthouse. Fortunately, I never had problems with long lines and cues!



Super happy that I was able to enter Yoojung Sikdang, finally! The restaurant is filled with all things BTS from floor to ceiling, I just love the vibe right away! I think fans from all-over the world contribute to the resto's interiors. There are two girls who approached Yoojung Sikdang's ajumma owner after eating to hand her a TATA plushie keychain. ❤

Here's a sneak peek of how Yoojung Sikdang looks like from the inside:




On the other side are more cup sleeves, fan arts, posters, dolls, stickers, and other official and unofficial BTS merch. Sayang I can't take a picture of the full wall because there were other diners, but I guess that's something to check out when you visit this place too! 😊







Now, let's eat! The best part is that they have a lot of vegetarian offerings on their menu!


Yoojung Sikdang's English Menu:


Rice Wrapped in Greens - KRW 9000
Ripened Kimchi Steamed Dish - KRW 9000
Black Pork and Kimchi Hot Pot - KRW 9000
Black Pork and Stone Pot Bibimbap - KRW 9000
Bibimbap with Wild Vegetables in a Hot Stone Pot - KRW 9000
Wild Herbs and Vegetables Bibimbap - KRW 9000
Cheonggukjang - KRW 9000
Sausage Stew - KRW 9000
Soft Tofu - KRW 9000
Grilled Black Pork Belly - KRW 16,000
Grilled Black Pork Belly Red Chili Paste - KRW 17,000
Grilled Black Pork Belly Stir Fried Spicy Pork - KRW 16,000
Tofu with Stir Fried Kimchi - KRW 10,000
Chicken Soup with Ginseng - KRW 14,000


What The Boys Order:
BTS’ usual order in Yoojung Sikdang are the ssambap (Rice Wrapped in Greens) and heukdoeji dolsot bibimbap (Black Pork and Stone Pot Bibimbap).



What I Ordered:

Third Visit
Bibimbap with Wild Vegetables in a Hot Stone Pot. It comes with a lot of side dishes and a bowl of tofu soup so it is worth the price!






Fourth Visit
Tofu with Stir Fried Kimchi. Did not expect this huge serving size for its price, I wasn't able to finish everything! It's so good though, just like my first order. I wish I dined here daily during my long trip so I can try the other dishes, but this was already my flight day!

Yoojung Sikdang is not only a feast on the eyes, but the tummy as well!



The best part is, on both visits I got Taehyung cup sleeves from ajumma! You don't have to ask for it, she just goes around handing cup sleeves to her diners!

Ajumma can't speak English well, but she tried conversing with me on both times I was there, one was while I was checking out the wall of merch that she's trying to arrange. With my little Korean, I picked up the word chuahae / joahae which I learned from watching Kdramas to mean "to like" hahaha, so I just said "V!"

 She also showed me fan art stickers and I think she was asking if I can recognize the fan drawings, haha! Even though we were struggling to communicate, it's a cute and happy moment to converse about BTS in Yoojung Sikdang.




How to Go to Yoojung Sikdang:
Hakdong Station (Seoul Subway Line 7), Exit 7. Walk for 10 minutes.
14 Dosan-daero 28-gil, Nonhyeon-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Open from Monday to Friday 8:30am - 9:30pm, Saturday-Sunday 8:30am - 7pm

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Connect, BTS: A BTS Exhibit in Dongdaemun Design Plaza, Seoul

May 4, 2020, 7:10 pm
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Just got lucky!

I remembered the giddy feeling I got when I chanced upon a Titanic exhibit at the Art Science Museum in Singapore, and the Frida Kahlo exhibit while I was in Budapest. Both were running for limited time only, so what are the chances that I was in the city during those dates!

This time, I found myself browsing the website of Dongdaemun Design Plaza to check their ongoing exhibits, when I saw that they have one related to BTS. I went to DDP immediately the next day.

Sharing the sights and sensory experiences of going to Connect, BTS in Seoul.



Dongdaemun Design Plaza or DDP is one of Seoul's most popular places to visit. In fact, this Zaha Hadid architecture was Instagram's most tagged location in Korea back in 2015! DDP is an iconic landmark for South Korea, a venue for big events like Seoul Fashion Week, concerts and trade shows, and even Korean drama shoots. They are also popular for the LED Rose Garden at night.



When I went there last February, most of the entrances were locked. They limited the entry points to swiftly monitor cases of the corona virus.





I got a little lost trying to look for the exhibition hall, but followed a pair of girls heading for the entrance and finally found it.





I visited the exhibit prior BTS! This wall by the entrance was still bare, but later on filled with messages and signatures of Jin, Suga, J-Hope, RM, Jimin, V, and Jungkook.




Got a bit dizzy by the reflective flooring, trippy!


FAQs

Where: 
Dongdaemun Design Plaza, Seoul South Korea

When: 
January 28 to March 20, 2020

What:
Connect, BTS is a global project to connect 5 cities and 22 artists, a collective curation hoping to resonate BTS' philosophy through their art.

The 5 cities include London, Berlin, Buenos Aires, Seoul, and New York. Displayed in the middle of the exhibition hall were glimpse of the artworks in other featured cities.












Connect, BTS is not the typical art exhibit where you will literally see pictures or music of BTS as is. Instead, they showcased interpretations of the life, music, and career of this worldwide phenomenon.

The Artworks in Connect, BTS Seoul:

GREEN, YELLOW AND PINK

The artworks in Seoul include the Green, Yellow and Pink by artist Ann Veronica Janssens of United Kingdom. Green, Yellow and Pink is an art experience where you have to enter an enclosed dome filled with colored haze and mist (in colors green, yellow, and pink). You won't see anything beyond 3 steps away.

The experience was a bit dizzying and confusing for me. But when I took out my phone to take photos and videos, I got over it and found my selfies with the colors amusing. The mist won't just go out, you have to follow a bell sound for the exit when your time inside is up!

Green, Yellow and Pink provokes different reactions and emotions from its audience. Some will find it exhilarating and exciting, while to others it might be anxiety inducing or trigger claustrophobia.






ROSE

Another artwork by Janssens is the Rose. This is a part of the artist's Fog Star series wherein light and haze form the shape of a star. Art changes along with the presence of the guest.









BEYOND THE SCENE

Meanwhile, Beyond the Scene by Korean artist Yiyun Kang is a large projection mapping. I entered a room with full LED walls, showing projections of falling things, grids, pressing hands and bodies on cloth, and other things that seem realistic!

They say that these are the artist's reimagination of BTS' signature dance movements.








Same reaction with V while watching Beyond The Scene while seated on the floor hehehe:



Few days after, I saw BTS Tweeted their picture with the ROSE artwork. They also released a Youtube video of their visit / experience. Here are the boys' impressions of the artworks.

BTS Impressions:






I like what J-Hope said! It resonates with my personal experience.

"They're all new types of art for me. It makes me wonder, is there a limit to art?"






Find out more about the exhibit here: https://www.connect-bts.com

Watch: BTS at CONNECT, BTS in Seoul:

Watch my CONNECT, BTS Experience:





Honestly a bit confusing at first, but after watching interview videos with BTS (will place posts on my Stories), 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐜𝐭, 𝐁𝐓𝐒 to me are 2 things: ⁣ ⁣ 𝟏. 𝐀𝐫𝐭 + 𝐇𝐮𝐦𝐚𝐧. The art changes along with its connection to the current subject present.⁣ ⁣ 𝟐. 𝐀𝐫𝐭 𝐁𝐞𝐲𝐨𝐧𝐝 𝐕𝐢𝐬𝐮𝐚𝐥. Most of the rooms at the BTS, Connect Seoul do not have the usual paintings and sketches, but are sensory experiences. ⁣ ⁣ My favorite would be the room clouded with colored fog, which made me feel excited, scared, suffocated, and then calm in just a few minutes inside the dome.⁣ ⁣ << 𝐒𝐰𝐢𝐩𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐯𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐨 𝐜𝐥𝐢𝐩𝐬!⁣ ⁣ #connectbts ⁣ #connectbts_seoul ⁣ #koreanagon ⁣ #anagonvacation
A post shared by Ana Gonzales (@anagon) on

How To Go To Dongdaemun Design Plaza:
 Dongdaemun History & Culture Park Station, Exit 1

Follow BTS Online:
Twitter: @bts_twt
Instagram: @bts.bighitofficial
Website: bts.ibighit.com

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Café Kitsuné, Seoul

May 5, 2020, 11:38 pm
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My quarantine daydream is a lazy afternoon in Garosugil.

I would walk along its streets, and enter random shops that doesn't have that intimidating vibe. And on a good day, a friend will invite me to a cafe I have been meaning to try but was shy to enter alone. 😅

You see, to get to Café Kitsuné's Seoul branch, you have to pass through a gate heading to a bamboo pathway which reminds me a bit of a mini, city version of Arashiyama in Kyoto. It looks like a private residence or a museum from the outside.


At the end of the bamboo pathway is a well-designed outdoor dining area where you'll find hanging stringed light bulbs, kitsune (or "fox") decors, and lots of metals and wooden aesthetics. It turned out to be homey from the inside!


We were there early, so Marc and I had the outdoor area to ourselves! Thank you Marc for taking my pictures for a change! Most photos of my cafe hoping in Seoul only has my coffee on it hehe. 😁



The Café Kitsuné in Seoul has four floors, with the Maison Kitsuné boutique on the 2nd floor and up. You can't take photos there, but it was nice to browse through their items and check out their shirts and signature canvass totes. Ground floor is for the small cafe where they also sell their own merch.


Café Kitsuné offers the basics, from Americano, lattes, flat white, cappuccino, etc. They also have teas and non-coffee beverages like chocolate and matcha. Price range for the drinks is from KRW 4000 to 7,500. 

They also only serve light pastries, most of which has their fox logo on it so it's cute for your coffee pics. But if you're hungry, go somewhere else first and have your coffee break here later on. 


Lighting was so good that day, I kept taking pictures of our orders with my phone. "Pang Kinfolk" yung vibe! Hehe.



Here are the Café Kitsuné merch, price is a bit lower compared to Maison Kitsuné's. Regretting I didn't get the small tote or a cap!


This meetup happened during my last full day in Seoul, before I headed to COEX. Marc and I had a quick morning coffee run in Café Kitsuné before he handed me some gifts! 

It's an original Hwarang photobook and a Cha Eun Woo T-Money Card! 😍 Marc just learned that I am a Taehyung and Eunwoo fan during our Itaewon adventures, so this was a big surprise for me! 

Thank you for remembering and for your thoughtfulness chingu! I enjoyed all our talks during my wintertime in Seoul.


Treasuring these Korea gifts forever, the best material things I brought home from this trip!



Visit: Maison Kitsuné Seoul Boutique & Café Kitsuné 
23, 13 Gil, Dosandaero, Gangnam-Gu, Seoul, South Korea (Garosugil area)
Open daily, from 11am to 8pm
Nearest Subway: Sinsa Station, Exit 8
Follow them on Instagram @cafekitsune

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Things To Do in COEX Mall, Seoul | Is the COEX Pass Worth It?

May 11, 2020, 1:22 am
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For my last full day in Seoul, I decided to visit the COEX mall again. The last time I was there, I felt dizzy and just left after checking out the library and eating in E-Mart. For this trip, I was ready to see more of COEX!!




The night before, I was browsing my travel apps to check for any activities I can pre-purchase for discounts. I saw the Gangnam COEX All In One Pass in Seoul (COEX Pass) and booked it on-the-spot. 

Is the COEX Pass price worth it?

Paid Php 1850 instead of the pass' regular rate of Php 3700. I checked the total worth of the pass, and here are the discounted prices if you buy them via Trazy or Klook side-by-side its regular rates:

SMTOWN Museum - Php 700 (from Php 744)
COEX Aquarium - Php 827 (from Php 1,158)
Megabox Movie Ticket - Php 351 (from Php 413)
City Airport Limousine Bus Ticket - Php 579 (from Php 620)


TOTAL = Php 2457 discounted (from Php 2935 regular rate)

One of the free things that you can do in COEX is hangout at the COEX Starfield Library:

SMTOWN, a museum dedicated to fans of SM artists:




The challenge is fitting all these activities in one visit.

Here's how my jam-packed afternoon in COEX went!

My Day in COEX

Arrived in COEX past lunchtime already, morning was spent in Cafe Kitsune with Marc.

2 - 3:30pm: SMTOWN Museum (agad-agad!)





My favorite part of SMTOWN is the "backstage" access, where you'll see actual clothes, cue sheets, and products used by idols during concerts and shows:





3:30 - 4pm: COEX Starfield Library and Bütter for CLOY plushies

4 - 4:30pm: Late Lunch / Early Dinner



5 - 5:45pm: COEX Aquarium

I've been to a lot of aquariums in Korea already, but it's nice to just wander aimlessly and relax in this chill place. I like the area with unique aquarium set-up like telephone booth, sink, bed, etc.








6 - 8pm: Movie in Megabox

Decided to catch an English movie (Birds of Prey) that's about to start, but usually I watch the local movies whenever I go to cinemas in Korea.



9pm: Home / Late dinner

Tips on How to Maximize your COEX Pass

1. Arrive in COEX as early as you can so you have time in between to have coffee, rest, or go shopping. The time I spent was just enough to finish all 3 activities and a meal, but would have been better if I have breaks.

Take note of the opening hours daily so you can make a comfortable itinerary:

COEX Aquarium: 10:00am-9:00pm (last admission: 8:00pm)
SM TOWN Museum: 11:30am-8:30pm (last admission: 7:30pm)
MegaBox COEX: 7:30am-2:00am (next day)





2. The COEX Pass also comes with an Airport Limousine ride (COEX to Incheon Airport only--Terminal 1&2). My flight wasn't till the night of the following day, so I wasn't able to use this already.

If you want to avail this, make sure that your COEX visit and your flight home is at least within 48 hours. Here are some information about the Airport Limousine:

Just show the QR Code of your COEX Pass at the 2F of COEX City Airport Terminal. Choose your preferred departure time and redeem your bus ticket. Bus is from 4:10am to 9:30pm, every 20 to 25 minutes. Double check online for schedule changes and updates.




3. The COEX Pass also includes 4-hour Luggage Storage at the 2F COEX City Airport Terminal or 1F Hyundai Art Baggage & Gift Wrapping. If you want to go around COEX before your flight, then you can leave your luggage here first!

4. The pass also has discounts to COEX stores and restaurants, including the Lotte Duty Free Store, SM TOWN Cafe, Starfield COEX Mall, etc. Click HERE to get your coupons. If you can go back to COEX twice to avail its 48-hour validity, then you can use your Day 2 (assuming it's also your flight day) for last minute shopping and food trip before riding the airport limo.






Final Notes:

1. You can either print or just show your mobile voucher to use the COEX Pass. Bring your passport in case they'll ask for ID.

2. Voucher can be used at any date before your selected date.

3. You can enter the spots within 48 hours from your first entry.


4. Again, you can book your COEX Pass here.


5. How To Commute to COEX Mall: Samseong Station, Exit 5 or 6 

 
Overall, I was only able to avail 3 activities from my COEX Pass: SMTOWN, COEX Aquarium, and watch a movie in Megabox. If I compute its individual rates when I buy my tickets on the spot--then I saved more by using the COEX Pass! I still got a good deal even without using the access for the airport bus or get discounts on shops and cafes. 

Will I recommend getting this pass? If you will dedicate a day in COEX, and you want to add a more relaxed and indoor day in your itinerary, then this is definitely worth it.



Starfield COEX Mall

513 Yeongdong-daero, Samseong 1(il)-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Samseong Station, Exit 5 or 6 
10:30am to 10pm

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