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How I got my 10-year Multiple Entry US Tourist Visa from the Philippines

2026-03-31T23:20:00.047+08:00

It's been a very long time since I last wrote and posted blog entries. After my European travels, I went to other countries and also obtained a multiple-entry visa for Japan. I also travelled to Palawan and other provinces.

I decided to write again since many are asking me how the US visa interview process was, and I was on my second menstrual period when I attended the interview. I want to share how many comfort rooms/restrooms/toilets I saw in line inside the US Embassy.

How to get a US Tourist Visa from the Philippines

Visit the official US embassy in the Philippines website first, as usual, when applying for your US visa to see the latest process and updates, as my application experience will become outdated:

https://ph.usembassy.gov/visas/

Table of Contents

How I applied for my US Tourist Visa and scheduled my interview (short version)
I want to update / correct my DS-160 application form. Can I edit or change it after I schedule my appointment?
Locker or Storage facility in VFS US Visa Biometrics Parqal Mall
How I Prepared for my US Visa Interview
- Recommended YouTube videos

-Documents to prepare for the interview

- My personal tips to ace your US visa interview

- My outfit during my interview

Arrived near the US Embassy
Locker or Storage facility outside and near the US embassy
Toilet / CR while lining up at the US Embassy for a visa interview
Inside the Embassy and the 3 steps for less than an hour
Interview Questions
How to check the Visa status
Public transport / Commute or car

How I applied for my US Tourist Visa and scheduled my interview (short version):

I have a soft copy of my US visa photo (2x2 ID with white background)
I filled in the DS-160 form on https://ceac.state.gov/genniv/

It is not required to complete your application form in one sitting; you can save it and fill it in over days, just take note of your DS-160 application ID number. After submitting the form, you can schedule your biometrics appointment (Manila OFC: Parqal Mall) and your consular interview (Embassy/Consulate OFC: US Embassy).

http://www.usvisascheduling.com/

Parqal Mall is located in Aseana City, Diosdado Macapagal Blvd.

US Embassy is located in Roxas Blvd.

I paid ₱11,100 Philippine pesos ($185 USD) for my B1/B2 visa fee. There were many online payment and bank payment options. I chose GCash (₱10 service fee) just to be sure that what I pay is cheaper in case the USD amount was not immediately converted to Php. I should have tried using Maribank debit card for cashback.

After the payment, wait a few minutes to see if the website refreshes automatically and goes to the calendar. If not, remember your username, password, and answers to your security questions before logging out, then log in again after an hour or the next day to book your appointments.

The biometrics appointment should be at least 1 day before the consular interview. Although it often shows on their calendar that the available consular interview slot is at least a week after the biometrics appointment. There is no undo or previous button, which is why think twice or more before you click the date and time of the appointments.

You can reschedule only two (2) times after your initial appointment schedule without additional charge.

I want to update / correct my DS-160 application form. Can I edit or change it after I schedule my appointment?

The good news is you can replace it. The bad news is that you cannot edit it. The good news again is that you can create a new DS-160 application form and open a case in your visa scheduling website account to replace your DS-160 form without paying the visa fee again. I did mine as I need to update my US citizen relative's contact details.

The support team will reply to your case, and when you reply to them, you will open a new case and mention the previous case or case # so the new support can return to your previous message.

When I had my DS-160 form replaced, it took 4 days (within weekday). I rescheduled my biometrics and consular interview to be sure that I can go to Parqal mall with my new DS-160 form. When I received their final reply, they did not mention that my DS-160 had been updated. I just checked my Appointment Confirmation details and saw that my Application form ID number had already been updated.

Some people mentioned that if you are unable to open a case, you can bring your new DS-160 form to your biometrics appointment to have it replaced on the spot, but I never tried it.

Locker or Storage facility in VFS US Visa Biometrics Parqal Mall

If you don't have a chaperone with you or a car, you can leave your things at the Baggage House, also in Parqal Mall (Php 150/day). No bag and no gadgets allowed including phone and smart watch. An analog watch, wallet, and simple jewelry are okay to bring. I made a reservation by sending them a message days before my biometrics appointment. I only took my passport, Appointment Confirmation Letter, and DS-160 confirmation form with me. Some people suggest leaving things in the lockers at BOUNCE near the car park (Php 30 per 30 minutes), but I've never used them.

I arrived 15 minutes before my appointment and waited around 10 minutes (I was one of the last people in line for my time slot) outside, where the Parqal mall fountain was located. Before we went inside the Cogon Bldg., the staff checked our appointment letters. We rode the elevator going to the 3rd floor. It took less than 15 minutes for the biometrics and picture-taking. The picture in your biometrics will be the one to be used when they stamp your visa in your passport.

How I Prepared for my US Visa Interview

It took many years of travel since 2012 for me to apply for a US visa because I often thought I have to prove that I had a steady income and a strong travel history to be considered a tourist. Paying for the visa and going to the embassy for an interview takes a lot of effort, and I do not want to waste my money, time, and effort on an uncertain result. I live in Quezon City, and I have to plan carefully about this, especially for those coming from the province applying for any kind of US immigrant and non-immigrant visa.

The fate of my interview largely depends on the consul's personality and the way I answer questions.

I watched YouTube videos of fellow Filipinos who applied both rejected and approved. I watched some ex-consul video tips.

These are the videos that helped me the most in my profile:

- When the consul is serious and intimidating

Legal Chitchat PH

ZF Visa (from an ex-visa officer/consul)

- How to answer the interview

Teacher Noy

Szew Law Group

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HFuRQCXrLSo

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ORh9VbGpx5I

- 1st time to travel abroad (this is where I got the idea of not bringing a large file/folder organizer)

Neil Peralta

Documents to prepare for the interview

- DS 160 confirmation form

- Appointment letter

- passport (when you enter the US embassy, you will just bring out your passport as they will scan the sticker on the back of your passport only. No need to bring out the letter and the DS-160 form).

- Bank Certificate (up to you if it shows the average daily balance or not)

- If you have already travelled outside the Philippines, bring your previous passport with your visas and stamps as proof of your previous travel, as some visa officers are looking for these. You can bring a photocopy of the previous passport instead.

- If you are a freelancer, have a contract with a date and a job description so the consul knows you have unfinished business with your client, and you must resume work after your trip. This is what I did when I applied for my Schengen visa in 2019.

- In case you want to print an invitation letter from your US relative, let the relative create the letter with the date/duration of the trip, sign it, and email the invitation letter. You will print it and bring it to the interview.

You can bring a photocopy of the following documents as the original copies are not needed:

- If you have a business: BIR Certificate of Registration, DTI registration, and business/mayor's permit. Financial Statement, if you want to include it.

- Paid Income Tax Return (ITR) for the last year, as possible, with receipt/payment form. You can also bring your current year's quarterly ITRs.

- Certificate of Employment, including the jobs you put on the DS-160 application form. You can include a document, contract, or agreement that states that you have a project or work to do after your trip.

- Your land title

- 1st page of your one to two credit card bills with the highest credit limit, so they can see how much your credit limit is and the available remaining limit.

My personal tips to ace your US visa interview

As bags and gadgets (including phones, electronics, and smart watches) are not allowed inside, kindly bring your documents and follow these tips.

- Do not bring a binder, thick clear book, or a large file organizer, as bringing this might give the impression that you are desperate to go to the US, whether as a tourist or a worker. I'm not sure if following this tip also applies to an immigrant visa. Bring a durable, expandable, long plastic envelope with a handle instead. For organizing the papers inside, use paper clips and color-coded tape flags/ sticky notes. You may bring a ballpen, but you really don't need it inside.

This is the one I bought (with zipper) in National Bookstore for Php 97.00

This is how I organize my files:

- Bring a foldable fan or any small fan without a pointed handle. You can bring a folded piece of scratch paper in case your fan did not fit inside the plastic envelope.

- I brought a mini pack of tissues and a mini pack of wet wipes for hygienic purposes, and put those behind my papers inside the plastic envelope. I came lining up outside of the embassy with my hair tied up, and let it down when I reached the line inside.

Just a sample, not an affiliate link

- For ladies who are on their heavy menstrual period, wear menstrual pants (Kotex, Sisters, or Charmee) and put small winged napkins on the sides of your menstrual pants for extra protection against side leaks. You can bring a pair of menstrual pants since there are toilets inside the embassy. You can change your menstrual pants/pads near establishments (cross the mini footbridge from the US Embassy to Ermita Center Bldg.).

- Bring Imodium and a painkiller for emergencies.

- Wear an analog watch to keep note of the time.

- It will be best to wear closed shoes and do not wear sleeveless tops. There is no dress code mentioned, but please be presentable, whether you choose to wear semi-formal, semi-casual, or casual attire. Also, avoid wearing slippers, shorts, and mini-skirts. You do not need to wear formal event or work attire, as doing so will make you uncomfortable and may affect how you present yourself for the interview. You can wear a polo shirt or a clean-looking t-shirt. Wearing a blazer is okay. Avoid flashy jewelry.

- Avoid smelling bad and practice good hygiene

I just wore slippers from Baggage Keepers, crossed the footbridge, and reached the US Embassy. I brought my plastic envelope with a handle and also a pair of my black office shoes inside a clear plastic bag. When I reached the line outside the embassy, I changed my slippers and put on my shoes. I put my slippers in a clear plastic bag where my shoes came from, and placed them inside my plastic envelope, behind the papers, along with my folded scratch paper, tissues, and wet wipes.

Locker or Storage facility outside and near the US embassy

There is a Google Form on the Links section of the Baggage Keepers Facebook page. I filled out the form, and they confirmed my reservation through email. I went there, and the business was already open before 6am. The lady there is really nice, and she remembered that I made a reservation a week before my interview. Even though I reserved a medium locker (Php 200/day), she suggested using a small locker (Php 150/day) as my bag can fit there. After my visa interview, she and I had a small chat. She was kind to search and give me the number of the US embassy on a sticky note. I asked her if the locker facility is her family business, and it turns out that it is.

I really recommend Baggage Keepers because the lady there was friendly and helpful.

My outfit during my interview:

My outfit after the interview. I changed my polo into a t-shirt, and I was wearing slippers on my way home:

- Know what you wrote on the DS-160 application form

The consul will review your form and compare what you said to ensure consistency.

- Have a mock interview with a friend or ChatGPT

I used ChatGPT to look for FAQs and better lines for my answers. It will also be best to have a friend, preferably one who passed the interview, as your instructor. Answer questions without sounding or looking like a robot. Answers should not be scripted-sounding; just answer like how you formally speak in a job interview. Avoid being stiff and record your voice during a mock interview to hear how you speak. I recorded my voice alone by reading the question and answering it without looking at my notes, as if I were being interviewed by the consul.

- Greet your consul and speak confidently.

Voice should be heard by the consul; there is no need to be loud. Listen to the questions carefully, and it is your responsibility to include all relevant information for each question, like in a job interview.

When it was my turn for the interview, I greeted the consul "Good morning" with a smile, and he greeted me back. I answered questions in a single sentence or a single paragraph. Not too long and not too short. I will be posting the questions he asked me later.

Arrived near the US Embassy

My visa interview was scheduled at 9:15 am. I can go inside the embassy 15-20 minutes before the interview, but I am afraid there will be heavy traffic, and I wanted to finish earlier that day.

I booked a Grab car at around 4:40 to 4:45 am. Luckily, the driver will arrive in about 5 minutes. It took only an hour and a bit more to arrive at the Ermita Center Building. If I booked at 5am, it might take me 2 to 2.5 hours to reach Ermita.

I arrived before 6am. I ate at 7-11 (near Ermita Center), went to the Baggage Keepers in Ermita Center, and ate breakfast again (Tea and Cookie) at Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf. There was no CR there, so I had to go outside and climb the stairs to the second floor.

Toilet / CR while lining up at the US Embassy for a visa interview

- There is no toilet outside the US Embassy. You have to cross the mini footbridge to use the toilet / comfort room / CR. There is a CR on the 2nd floor of the building where 7-11 and Coffee Bean are located. I cannot remember if there's a mirror. There is also a CR (with a mirror) inside the Ermita Center ( just ask the guard and mention that you will also be going to the Baggage Keepers). Change your pads, as it will take up to one hour to line up outside the embassy if you want to be among the first interviewed on your appointment schedule.

- There are 2 toilets (2 female and 2 male) inside the embassy. The first ones were after going through security and the baggage inspection detectors; you will be directed to a large, roofed patio-like area with chairs and ceiling fans. The second ones were inside the hall where applicants line up, sit, and go to the large, cashier-like windows.

While waiting outside the embassy (1 hour)

I went to the US Embassy at 7am via crossing the mini footbridge. There were homeless-looking people who would greet you with good luck. There is a guard guiding the people and told some of us to get in line. He designated lines depending on the scheduled time of the interview. I was sixth in line, maybe third, since the first four women were applying together as a family. There were vendors selling ballpens, and some applicants left their things with them for 300 pesos or more, depending on the number of gadgets or the size of the bag. They gave their customers laminated numbers. I used Baggage House because it was cheaper, and I do not know if there will be a thief posing as an honest vendor or keeper that day.

I also used my folded scratch paper as an improvised fan. We were allowed to enter the embassy after waiting an hour in line. Some applicants who arrived 10-15 minutes early went directly inside the embassy. They will be the last ones to be interviewed on their time slot. I am not sure whether the personnel will allow latecomers to enter.

Upon entering the embassy, staff will check the appointment confirmation letter, and another staff member will check the DS-160 confirmation form.

Inside the Embassy and the 3 steps for less than an hour

After security (baggage detectors), Filipino ushers and usherettes will guide applicants to their destination. There is no need to take the form out of your plastic envelope. You only have to take out your passport.

We were seated on white monoblock chairs in a large, roofed, empty patio-like area with large ceiling fans and a mini food store in the center. This is the time to go to the toilet while waiting, but please be quick, as they might call people by row to get inside the hall, and you might be left behind.

While waiting, people exited the hall had finished the US visa process. Some were smiling, some had neutral facial expressions, and I could not tell if they were approved or denied. Some had passports with them, which might mean they were denied.

There are cashier-like windows inside the large hall.

from pna.gov.ph

Note: You can go to the toilet inside the hall before or during Steps 1 and 2.

Step 1: Filipino staff members will ask questions to confirm applicants' passport details, the purpose of their trip, and where in the US they will go. In my case, she politely asked me, "Saan ka pupunta?" and I answered, "Sa California."

Step 2: There is a line with a sign reading "Step 2." This is where foreign staff members will scan the sticker on the back of the passport and take fingerprints from the four fingers of the right hand. The black lady there (Window #12) was kind and patiently waited for me as it took me minutes to align the back of my passport to her scanner. I apologized, and she said it's okay. After that, we sat on the chairs and waited for our turn in Step 3. We were called per row for Step 3.

Step 3: The consul interview

This is where several people will line up per window, unlike in the picture (pic taken during Covid).

The line distance from the person being interviewed and the first in line was nearer than shown in the picture.

The lady on my back asked the usherette if she could be assigned to a Filipina, as the lady might not understand English. The usherette said yes, but I think the Pinay-looking lady consuls there were Latina or Hawaiian. The guy on my front and I were assigned to the farthest right window. What I remember was Window #29, where a light-brown-haired white guy, maybe in his early or mid-30s, was a consul/visa officer.

The whole process from Steps 1 to 3 took less than an hour.

Interview Questions

First, observe the consul's personality while you are in line.

When the guy on my front and I were assigned to that consul window, I sensed that the consul looked friendly. An old woman and a toddler girl were being interviewed by the consul. When the girl mentioned her name, he (the consul) said her name was nice or adorable. That's when I knew he wasn't intimidating.

He patiently waited for the woman to get the papers. Their visas were approved, and he told the woman that there was a payment, etc. Maybe they were petitioned or something.

But wait! How did I hear their interview? The consul and the previous staff members in Steps 1 and 2 had microphones. They were not too loud, like a market, but just at an exact loudness level that only people within the line could hear. I am not sure if there were cameras inside beside them. The consuls also have their own computer near them.

The next applicants in line were 3 people applying together for a tourist visa. They were approved by the consul, and no papers were presented. Next, the guy on my front was interviewed, and he will be working in Guam. While in line, I saw the window next to mine (on the left side since my line was on the rightmost part), and the consul there returned his passport with a blue slip. The guy on that line just left, immediately disappointed. No thank you and no farewell greeting.

Anyway, back to the guy on my front. The consul did not ask for any papers, and the guy was approved. The consul gave him a "Know Your Rights" paper slip.

Here are the questions the consul asked me

Since I knew he had a nice demeanor, I greeted him with "Good Morning" with a smile, and he greeted me back.

He looked at his computer, and the interview began. I am sharing what I remember here. The following are not the exact wordings, but they convey the same meaning. He did not request any documents.

Consul: What is the purpose of your trip?

Me: To visit my aunt and my cousins, and to explore with them my childhood dream (or sought-after place), the Silicon Valley, and other places in San Francisco

Consul: Nothing much to see in Silicon Valley. Anyway....what is your job?

Me: Sir, I have a business selling motor pumps, pressure washers, grasscutters, and other agricultural-related spare parts that generate steady sales (or income), and a would-be rental business.

Consul: Have you travelled to other countries?

Me: I travelled to many countries in Asia, Europe, and also in Australia.

Consul: Where in Australia? (It looks like he was interested that I went to Australia)

Me: In Sydney and Blacktown. I've been to Australia four times already.

Consul: Who are you visiting in Australia?

Me: My sister

Consul: Okay, visa approved!

Me: Thank you, sir! :) (me with a smile!!)

I left immediately without asking about the delivery details of my passport. Actually, I forgot to ask, but since I chose passport delivery when I scheduled my biometrics and interview, I was confident that, whatever the result, the visa would be delivered to my house.

I did not answer one to three-word answers. What I did was include all the information related to the question, like how I promote myself on job interviews.

On the first question, I mentioned that I have an auntie and cousins waiting for me in the US.

On the second question, I mentioned that the business has steady income or sales and is doing well, because I want to assure the consul that I will stay in the Philippines and return there because I will not close my business.

On the third question, he only asked if I had traveled outside the Philippines, not the countries I went to. The reason I mentioned I've been to many countries in Asia, Europe, and Australia. I also mentioned 4x in Australia when he asked me about Australia, since it was my responsibility to convince him that I am a true tourist and will return to the Philippines.

When I got back to Baggage Keepers, I asked the lady there if she knew how long it would take to get the passport. She mentioned she was not sure and gave me the embassy contact number on a sticky note, which was helpful.

How to check the Visa status

While riding the LRT, I checked my visa status on the CEAC website on my smartphone. It shows that my Visa was approved, but it says below that a final screening step must be completed, and the status might change to "Refused," meaning they might ask for additional requirements or there will be admin processing. The processing is complete when the status changes to "Issued". I was hoping that my visa would immediately change from Approved to Issued.

Day 1 (Tues): Interviewed and showed visa approved on the visa status tracker

Day 2 (Wed): same

Day 3 (Thurs): Issued

Day 4 (Friday): Still waiting for my passport delivery

Day 5 (Saturday): 2GO courier delivered my passport in the afternoon. I showed my ID and paid 630 pesos.

I was happy when I opened my passport and saw that my visa is valid for 10 years and is multiple-entry!

Public transport / Commute or car

From Novaliches to Parqal Mall

Ride a UV Express/FX going to Monumento (near Nova Bayan stoplight and next to Villarica) and get off at EDSA Bus Carousel (Php 50). Ride the bus going southbound, and when it reaches SM Mall of Asia, tell the conductor/driver you'll get off at Parqal Mall. The driver stopped at Parqal Mall itself that time. The fare I remembered was 71 pesos. The travel time from my house (tricycle to the UV Express terminal) to Parqal Mall was more than 3 hours. It was 15 minutes before my appointment when I arrived, went to the Baggage House, and then joined the biometrics line.

If you want a faster route and want to walk more, you can ride the same public transportation route, except that you will get off at the LRT Monumento or Fernando Poe Jr. station (former Roosevelt station). You will ride the LRT southbound and get off at Redemptorist Aseana Station (1 hour trip). You will walk to Parqal Mall (10 minutes).

If you have a car, the faster route will be to park your car at Waltermart Muñoz and ride the LRT.

From Parqal Mall to Novaliches

Same route back except that I walked across and stopped at the gasoline station (farther than DFA) to ride the EDSA Bus Carousel.

From Novaliches to the US Embassy car advice

From Ermita Center Building

The right side is where the part of the US embassy is located

The line is going to the US visa interview place (US Embassy)

It will be best to park your car at Ermita Center Building as it will be the nearest to the US Visa interview place. You will just park and cross the mini footbridge. If you have a driver/Grab/InDrive/Green GSM, this is much better as you can just get off at the mini footbridge across the Ermita Center Building.

From the US Embassy to Novaliches

There were pedicabs/tricycles there, but I chose to book a Grab car going to the LRT UN Avenue station. From there, I took the LRT northbound, and I got off at Fernando Poe Jr. station. There were UV Express or buses going to Novaliches, but I rode a jeep going to a place near SM North Annex, ate, did some errands, and went home by taking a UV Express to Novaliches.

Kindly share your visa experience, and I will also try to answer your questions. About the process, it is best to contact the US embassy.

ITOEN vs. KAGOSHIMA JAPANESE GREEN TEA Co. Matcha comparison Match!

2022-02-25T23:41:00.013+08:00

こんにちは皆さん私はジェンです！

Matcha is made from grounded green tea leaves.

Both iced green tea latte and plain latte are delicious.
Let's compare these 2 matcha powders!

Here's the matcha from Kagoshimatea.com. My client sent this matcha together with Genmaicha tea leaves as a token of appreciation.

By the way, this culinary matcha's brand is ITOEN.

ITOEN has a light color while Kagoshima has a dark color. That is because the culinary matcha has a lighter color than the organic matcha.

For a nice experience, you can use a Japanese tea set to make your matcha tea.

In my intro to my tea set, I am speaking in basic Japanese since I am still striving to study Japanese kitchen terms.

Chasen
Chawan
Chashaku
Kusenaoshi

ITOEN
(Sorry for the blurred pic, I just screen-capped from my phone video)

KAGOSHIMA TEA

I might be biased here since the organic matcha came from my client, but I still prefer the organic matcha's taste. For ITOEN, it still tastes good but it will be better if mixed with desserts and milk teas.

Although, making organic matcha drink Kagoshima tea is fun, using ITOEN is more convenient as you get the best out of it even just making it by using a teaspoon, hot water, and cup. It is also good to add as an ingredient to desserts.

By the way, for my US readers, there is a 10% OFF on green tea items in my client's shop.

Pyramid teas and organic matcha have health benefits. The teabags used do not contain hazardous materials and the tea leaves can move more freely than those inside the regular tea bags.

Here's the promo code and the store that won the Global Tea Championship to get a 10% discount

GreenTeaHaven

the store

Thanks for reading and I hope you enjoy the matcha brand match!

Olay BodyScience Creme Body Wash Review: Home Buddies Giveaway

2021-11-18T20:36:00.002+08:00

Note: Although this Olay package was given to me, I'll post my honest review about it.

Thank you Home Buddies and Olay Philippines for giving your Olay Body Creme bundle to 3000 Budol patrols out of 20,000 of us.

Home Buddies Facebook group is already popular and here's the shortcut to their group.

How I got these Olay Bodyscience items

I received text messages from Blitz Delivery telling me that a package from Olay will be delivered soon to me, but I did not know back then where it came from because I don't know where did I join any contest. I searched about Olay Philippines giveaway, then I read posts that the body wash bundle came from Home Buddies Budol Patrol where I signed up through the Google form link they posted.

I received the package in July and it included a flyer there telling receivers to take a selfie with the product, post it on social media with a hashtag, but it's too late for me because the selfie promo period ended already in June. I enjoyed seeing posts by celebrities and ordinary ladies sharing their happiness in receiving the package.

I love the packaging as well. Too bad I did not take a pic when the bundle was delivered beautifully wrapped in plastic and a ribbon. The color shows luxury and is also suitable for large bathrooms (ala hotel or mansion feels).

After using Olay Bodyscience Creme Body Wash for more than 3 months, I'll start now with my own review!

Olay Body Wash Creme Texture comparison

The loofah included in the package is surely brand new and I like the color. Although it is hard to use on my skin first, later on, it is now soft like a sponge, just needs to be cleaned.

I tried all the bottles and shared these with my family members. After that, we decided to finish emptying the B3+ Hyaluronic Acid Cleansing and Nourishing body soap bottle first, and B3+ Peptide Cleansing and Firming as the last bottle since we believe that we save the best for last. I like the beige color and scent of the Cleansing and Firming bottle the most.

Here is the cream comparison of the 3 bottles. From left to right, From small to largest:

B3+ Vitamin C Cleansing and Brightening

B3+ Peptide Cleansing and Firming

B3+ Hyaluronic Acid Cleansing and Nourishing

Here's a video for a somewhat clearer view:

The largest bottle is sparse and not that thick because we nearly finished emptying that bottle. All of these are scented it just happens that I like the Cleansing and Firming, although I admit that I was undecided at first if it smelled better than the Cleansing and Brightening. C&F bottle's color looks like a luxurious body wash.

How are these on my skin

I briefly use the two bottles and I love the feel on my skin even though I cannot judge yet if these can make my skin smooth and bright. For the Cleansing and Nourishing, the scent is just okay for me. I don't use this on times when my skin is turning oily but thank goodness, I managed to reduce my skin oiliness because of my improvement in managing PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome), and as a whole, I did not get acne for around 3+ years except some large pimples when I am near and during my period.

Let's go back to the Olay review, I often use the C&N bottle when I feel sweaty and just completed a day's home workout and chores. I feel fresh but in terms of the effect on my skin, it feels smooth when bathing and after a month or two, I did not notice much effect on my skin, although eventually, my skin's now a bit smoother than before. Maybe I can update this review when done finishing all the bottles, and I think those smaller bottles will make me feel more refreshed and will give me silkier smooth skin. I might be happy to purchase one of the bottles since I find my skin smoother on C&N alone.

I am not setting my expectations high, it might be around months to see slight improvements but at least, I am able to feel good about my smooth skin. About the price, I searched these creme washes on Lazada, and each bottle's price ranges from 289 to 330 pesos depending on the size and variation while on Shopee, there are solo or 2 bottles in each order. For solo bottles, the price starts at 229 and 680 pesos for two bottles.

For the bathing feels and effects on my skin, the price is just okay for me, if not for the soothing scents, the bundle will be a bit expensive for me. However, I love going to shower using it than bar soap. I am looking forward to trying now the other two. I will just place this bottle on the sink as a hand wash since there's almost no more left.

P.S. December is near and the hot & dry season ends. I wanted to see my skin glow and become vibrant.

Another Japan Visa Appeal Success Story by Ms. Jessica

2019-12-25T20:29:00.000+08:00

Ms. Jessica is one of the readers of my blog post who tried her luck in submitting an appeal and got approved by the Japan embassy this year 2019.

I am thankful to her because she is willing to share her story with our fellow citizens who want to travel to Japan. Here's her story:

Overflowing sadness and disappointment. That’s what I felt when I received the result on my first attempt to apply in a visa country – Japan.

All the relative documents were submitted to Reli Tours Dusit Thani branch (birth certificate, ITR, COE, photo, visa application, bank certificate, flight and hotel bookings, and schedule of stay). We were planning to have our 8 days honeymoon in Tokyo, Japan

Aug 30, 2019

After double-checking my requirements, I immediately went to Reli Tours Dusit Thani to submit my application. The staff assisted me and checked all the details. Upon checking my visa application form, she informed me that she will erase my purpose of travel from honeymoon to tourist.

I told her if erasures are possible. She said yes.

September 5, 2019

We waited for the result and was excited to claim my visa, I was confident because I already travelled to several countries in Asia. Upon receiving the bad news, I never felt so depressed and at the same time, I don’t know how I can accept the result of a denied visa. I immediately called my fiancé and was telling him that my Japan Visa application was denied.

He cannot believe it and he asked me several times about the result given to me by Reli Tours. This is our much-awaited moment, our Japan Trip. we wanted to celebrate our honeymoon after we get married.

After a week of research from the internet and asking for help from social networking sites

We decided to take the risk and apply for a tourist visa in Friendship Tours. I initially called them to ask if they are still accepting Japan Visa re-applications. The girl that I spoke with was well-knowledged and assisted me with additional documents that I have to submit for the second application as a tourist again. She said they will process these but there is no guarantee.

Because of our friends and people who gave me Japan travel advices on DIY Travel Philippines, Japan for dummies PH and the blog post that I read in sarisaringisip.blogspot.com, we gained a little hope and became determined.

Before we did the reapplication, we carefully analyzed what went wrong and what additional documents must be given or letters that will make my application stronger.

Moreover, we always pray and ask for guidance from the Lord. We also thought of having a Plan B honeymoon destination just in case I will not be accepted on my reapplication.

3^rd week of September

We re-applied in Friendship Tours submitting the same documents. This time, I applied for a visa with a guarantor which is my fiancé. I just submitted his bank certificate, our prenuptial photos, wedding invitation, and marriage license as proof of our relationship.

After waiting for only 3-4 working days, I was told that I can now get my passport.

I was very anxious and tense at the same time. I could walk normally into their office but deep inside, I was very nervous. I just told myself that I will not expect anything from the result. The girl in front of me just got denied which made me felt more worried. Now, it’s my turn to claim mine. The guy just handed me all the additional documents we submitted and let me sign in the receiving form. ........Then, he just said congratulations!

I became emotional and even cried when I saw my single entry Japan Visa. I cannot believe it! God answered all my prayers! Clients from that the agency noticed that I cried they also congratulated me.

Ms. Jessica holding her approved Japan tourist visa

Congratulations to the newly-wed couple!

Kaya after malagyan ng stamp ng IO sa japan nagtatalon ako sa airport sa tuwa hahaha

Here's me again, Jien, the Visa Denial Queen. If you want me to share your stories regarding travel, visa, food or adventures, please don't hesitate to comment or just send me a message.

Schengen Visa Denied and Rejected Several Times in a Row. A Cover or Appeal Letter Success Story

2019-10-02T17:23:00.001+08:00

I am the VISA DENIAL QUEEN.

My Story on how I got my Schengen Visa after FOUR applications in LESS THAN TWO MONTHS.

Knowing the process in applying for a Schengen visa, you would have bought all your plane and train tickets. This is the risk that my family took. We decided to avail the promo fare to Paris even if we were not guaranteed of Schengen visa.

Observing my personal Schengen visa journey, rejection reasons I received and my cover letters will let you understand and assess what went wrong with my previous applications and how we improved it. These might help you with your visa application in other countries.

We applied for a multiple entry visa because our itinerary was France, Italy, Vatican, Monaco, and Spain. Since France has no personal interview, we made it as the points of entry and exit and planned to stay mainly there. Our main reason for travel was PURELY TOURISM.

NB: Please do your research as I have no connection to the France Embassy to answer everything about Schengen Visa. I can only answer what I experienced regarding my application. Apply at your own risk.

Hi, everyone!

If you are following my blog, you are pretty well aware that I’ve been denied Japan visa but later approved through an appeal (please check out my blog on how I reapplied for Japan visa in less than a month and got approved), and now, this happened during our application in France Embassy. Because of this, my family is now calling me: VISA Denial Queen. Well, I was actually the one who thought of it so I will be using it in case of (hopefully NOT) another visa application misadventures. :D

This blog can also serve as a guide for online freelancers in applying for Schengen visa.

We first applied as a family (save for my mom and my sister residing in Australia) on March 5 through VFS Manila. It is important to organize your documents beforehand. Bring duplicate and original copies with you just in case they look for your document's authenticity.

Since I am a freelancer with no permanent employment, I tried to justify my savings account by enumerating all of my past employments in my cover letter. Aside from the usual requirements for the application, I also tried to justify my status by attaching all of my certificates of employment (COE) from my previous companies, my old ITRs, and my contracts with my current clients. I also attached my business registration and ITRs paid for my professional tax.

After 2 days, my family already got their passports back except mine. I tried to be optimistic but I know it was already a sign that I got denied. Little did I know that my elder sisters were already searching for Plan B and based on their research, there is no prohibition to reapply but the appeal can only be made by writing a letter in French and to send all the documents in France. Since we are already flying in May, the mode of appeal was definitely not an option for us.

Come March 12, after a week from the application date, I received an SMS notification and had my eldest sister pick up my passport. Attached on my passport is a "Schengen visa refusal/cancellation of Visa". The reasons were:

#8 the information submitted regarding the justification for the purpose and conditions of the intended stay was not reliable

#9 Your intention to leave the territory of the Member States before the expiry of the visa could not be ascertained.

I know there is a slim chance of being approved through an appeal or reapplication but we still gave it a try. For my 2^nd cover letter, I did not edit anything in substance and attached the same documents as with my 1^st cover letter. I also had my freelancing contracts notarized and submitted certified true copies of my COR and the latest annual and quarterly ITRs instead of just submitting photocopies.

My sisters also sorted out my bank statement but which I was personally confident with the amount therein. Since I am a freelancer, my sisters were eyeing my employment status as the reason for the denial. Since I have no any real property under my name, I decided to attach instead copies of my insurance policies here in the Philippines and other documents to prove my ties here. My sister from Australia also made a sponsorship letter for me. I also attached my dad's letter to convince the Consul to accept my application.

Come April 2^nd, I got my denial again. I got the denial letter with the same reasons for the rejection. I planned not to continue my application after the 2nd refusal but my older sisters still wanted me to join them and they sponsored a large part of my visa application fees. My other family members prayed for my application to be approved. Imagine, for all 4 applications, around less than 25,000 pesos was spent including my fare (QC to Makati) going to VFS. Each visa application that time costs less than 6,000 pesos (VFS fee and SMS notification included).

My sisters even thought of having my employment documents certified (red ribbon) by the DFA or to appeal directly in France. They also thought of applying in another Schengen country. We were already on low hopes on being approved on my 3^rd try, thus, we decided to think thoroughly first as for our next step.

For my 3rd application, considering that I submitted complete documents for my application, we decided to instead focus on my cover letter. My eldest sister also tapped a visa consulting agency, ARCticket Travel Agency, on what to do with my case. I also attached my Japan Proficiency Exam Test Permit to be held in Manila after our trip to prove that I will be coming back in the Philippines.

As advised by ARCticket, my older sisters and one of my older sister's boyfriend did an extensive editing in my cover letter to make it short and straight forward but without missing a detail that we thought would be important for my reapplication. ARCticket even sent one of their successful appeal letters, and the wordings therein are very elementary and precise. We brainstormed what ideas to write and documents to be removed and included. This time, I also asked my mom to write a letter to convince the Consul to accept my application. I also removed my Internet bill as an attachment.

It was on April 12 when I got a text from VFS that my passport was ready. I thought by this time I was already approved because it only took 5 days from my application to process it. I hurriedly went to VFS but by the time they made me sign a paper before receiving my passport. I already knew I got denied. However, I noticed that this time, there was only 1 reason left for my denial.

#9 Your intention to leave the territory of the Member States before the expiry of the visa could not be ascertained.

My sisters were considering booking me for a group tour in another Schengen country through ARCticket Travel Agency and to apply in that Embassy instead. However, that plan was too risky since I will be instead applying alone, instead of being backed up by my family for our vacation. We also considered appealing directly in France but based on research, the appeal must be done either personally or through a representative and cannot be done though a letter or online. Also, we found out that the processing of the appeal takes around 3 months. We were so frustrated on what to do next that I just decided that I don’t want to reapply anymore, but my whole family supported me, so, considering we only have a month left before our flight, I told myself to apply one last time.

In my last application, we emphasized that the denial has a sole reason left. We also made my cover letter as simple as possible.

We’ve put therein that my younger sister became a scholar of a University in Japan, while my other sister is already residing in Australia. With my only eldest sister working full-time as a lawyer, I’m the only one who takes care of my parents, hence, decided to work from home. I want to establish my intention to return with my parents through this. I also mentioned my travel history and still had my freelancing contracts notarized. This time, I did not declare any sponsor and instead of my mom and dad's separate letters, they created a single letter to convince the Consul to accept my application. I also removed my dad’s check-up slips but still submitted photocopies of my certified true copies of ITRs and COR.

Overall, I submitted a detailed yet simple letter. I did stick to the same reasons. You will notice that I removed a lot of documents from my second to the final application letter.

It was on May 8, 2019, and my mom decided to instead get my passport on my behalf because she thought that if my visa application will be denied again, I might get hit by a car, truck or any other vehicle due to my sadness and recklessly crossing roads unattentively. By the time I knew my mom already got my passport, she was not answering all my calls. I was on the verge of depression that she just can’t say the bad news right away. It was already 5PM and I had accepted my fate that I will not be with them in the Europe trip. I was planning maybe to just go to ASEAN countries or to Mongolia alone. My eldest sister told me that I may join her trip to Japan next year if I cannot go to Europe.

Finally, my mom told me I got denied and I told my sisters about my denial so they could manage their bookings without me this time. Upon coming home, she sadly told me again that I got denied and gave me my passport. I didn't even look at my passport. I did not cry when I was applying several times but, on that day, I cried silently because I thought I was not able to convince the France Embassy enough of my livelihood and my intention to return to the Philippines. What made worst is the efforts exerted were inutile.

After maybe around an hour to two hours, my mom told me to check my passport. I got pranked by my mom! There's now Schengen Visa on my passport!

Despite being pranked by my mom and hated her for a few minutes, I was happy that not only mine but my family's efforts especially my eldest sister’s who arranged most of my documents, were not put in vain.

I can now see the most popular and historical places in Europe with a condition that I will report to them within 7 days from the day I get back to the Philippines. I am the only one in the family who received this. I guess the Consul wants to make sure he will not regret his decision.

Despite all the hassles of securing all the needed documents, time, effort and money, we all pushed this through because of our dad. He wants to see Europe especially Monaco. He shared stories of how he wants to see the Colosseum, Vatican, Spain (where my dad's ancestors lived) and the Eiffel Tower.

He is already old and while he is a bit strong and still has eyesight, we all planned to save money for us to travel together in Europe. My family wants all of us to travel together. It does not need to be too expensive to travel to Europe. My eldest sister did the DIY Europe travel so we can travel more and save money. If we get travel tour packages, my parents will surely not catch up with the strict travel group schedule.

I even read articles where solo travelers spent 50,000-60,000 pesos each in traveling to some European countries including dining in decent restaurants and they were not in a rush. These prices are cheap considering Europe travel including airfare are so expensive like 100,000 - 150,000 pesos per person even more if they want a luxurious trip. Since we have senior citizens, we have to spend a bit more on transportation and took taxis during the entire trip. My family brought a walker for my dad so he can still see the places in case we have to walk far continuously.

With what happened to me, here are my pieces of advice:

1. Apply 3 months before the travel date so that in case you receive a visa refusal, you can apply again and have a bigger chance of winning! What I like about them is refused applicants don't have to wait for 6 months or several months to apply again. If on budget and still denied, you can form a Plan B of your travel to another country.

2. Use correct basic or elementary English in your cover letter. This was my first mistake. I tried to justify so much that I ended up making a 3-page cover letter for my 1^st application. French embassy wants cover letters to be short but precise.

3. It is not advisable to include your previous Certificates of Employment and tax returns with them. On my first application, I included my previous CoEs and ITRs. After my rejection, I asked for comments through online forums and they advised me that those documents are not relevant and consuls will only get confused.

4. It does not hurt to inquire to travel agencies. After my second visa rejection, I searched for a list of legit travel agencies who also have visa consultation services. Luckily, when my eldest sister (she's also the one who wrote my appeal letter to Japan Embassy) inquired via Fb messenger, Arcticket Visa Assistance and Travel Agency, (Note, same with my Japan visa appeal blog entry, I am not paid to promote this travel agency. But I wish I am paid like an influencer. Please make me your brand ambassadress! ^^ Just kidding.) assessed my cover letter via e-mail and made advices for free! Update: This is a very kind gesture from them!

Please don't lose hope. Check out that agency! They will really help you genuinely.

Be careful of fake agencies. Just click this link so you are sure they are the real agency I communicated with.

5. Do not use complicated charts and data like: I don't have a job and it is hard to apply for business because of blah blah Index by the government. They will surely not waste their time to research and understand the official one-page short report you provided.

6. This tip is for online freelancers. I suggest having a complete LinkedIn profile and an online portfolio website. I put my freelancing business letterhead in my cover letter. No graphic design skills? You do not need to hire a logo/graphic designer. I just made my own letterhead in MS Word.

Bring your certified true copies of the latest COR (Certificate of Registration), annual and quarterly Income Tax Returns (ITRs). To get certified true copies, photocopy your ITRs, go to BIR to have these certified, then pay a fee. In my RDO, I paid around 300 pesos for COR, 1701 and 2551Q ITRs.

Ask your client/clients to send you a letter where it states that they are aware of your vacation and they need you to come back to work after that, as advised by my fellow freelancer who I just inquired via FB messenger.

Here's mine:

Try to search your client's business using the Business ID, etc. and see what info will appear and if the source is a reliable website.

The officer on VFS Manila wondered why I don't have a DTI permit, I explained that my BIR RDO does not require me to have a DTI permit. Actually, my RDO doesn't need a DTI permit for me to register as a self-employed professional taxpayer. After my explanation, he wrote the details on one of my documents.

7. Freelancer or not, if you will present a contract, get it notarized. It is not advisable to have these red-ribboned because consuls might think that you are completing the requirements for a job abroad as advised by Arcticket.

8. Aside from highlighting the hotel names and dates, highlight how many rooms and occupants. I did these so they can understand that we are many and will be travelling as a family.

9. No need to notarize the front pages of your insurance policies What I instead did was to include a page or part of the brochure that proves that the policies can be used only here in the Philippines.

10. Some said it is not advisable to appeal or submit a new application to other EU Schengen embassies. The applicant might be rejected since they consider these as visa shopping.

Oh, a piece of bonus advice if you travel with your family or with groups:

Submit your documents as if you will be evaluated alone not as a group. You will be assessed individually by the Consul (according to some travel agency hearsays) meaning if you travel together with family or friends, your application will be assessed by Consul A while your dad's application will be assessed by Consul B.

Just my observation: We all applied together on the first application and noticed that only one Consul signed on their visas. That Consul's name did not appear on my applications and my Schengen visa ever.

On my Schengen visa refusal letters (pic above), my second and third application was signed by the Chief Consul unlike with the first one that was signed by a Premiere Consul.

I don't know the whole visa approval process but it might be that the Premiere Consul for my 2nd and 3rd application or maybe until 4th, gave me a chance and forwarded my application to the Chief Consul.

The same Chief Consul is the one who signed my Schengen Visa.

Okay, end of my observation.

Two days after I went back to the Philippines, I sent an email where I listed my Schengen travel countries and dates. I attached in the same email my low-quality Europe stamps in my passport and Schengen visa pics. I also included a link to my Google Drive if they want the original high-quality photos for reference. The reason is the French Embassy does not accept large file sizes.

I planned to go to VFS Manila just in case there's no response from them. Fortunately, they replied and confirmed.

Anyway, we enjoyed our Europe trip and was able to visit these beautiful places as a family!

I want to see comments soon whether about your successful application, guide, tips, observations or anything about Europe travel.

For learning French, you can try this

Thanks for reading! :)

Mary Pauline Salon Keratin Blowdry Review Timog (near Luxent Hotel and Dampa) - Metrodeal voucher experience

2019-04-28T20:15:00.001+08:00

Just raising an awareness to Mary Pauline Salon Metrodeal voucher buyers.

There is supposedly a back massage on their package but voucher buyers will surely be disappointed.

I bought their voucher from Metrodeal. The services included on their P1299 voucher are:

Keratin blowdry

Haircut

Back massage

The deal offers the "ultimate" package on Timog, Taguig or Makati branch. I selected Timog branch (near Luxent hotel and Dampa, not the one in Ushio building with Puregold). I called the salon to schedule an appointment but in no time mentioned about the back massage being not available.

Here's the link to the live deal, in case it is not working anymore, try the second link (archived April 28, 2019):

https://www.metrodeal.com/deals/Metro_Manila/Mary-Pauline-Salon-BKB-HC-BCKM/569027433

https://web.archive.org/web/20190428113116/https://www.metrodeal.com/deals/Metro_Manila/Mary-Pauline-Salon-BKB-HC-BCKM/569027433

To be fair the Keratin blowdry or blowout as of now is good. The staff did their work but sadly, the haircut is only a hair trim not a style haircut. I was disappointed but I am okay with that afterwards.

I asked for the back massage but this service does not exist on Mary Pauline salons. I heard before that they cannot provide back massage when my relative went before to Novaliches branch but I did not expect that maybe most of the Mary Pauline branches do not really provide it. Their reason is there's no person to do the back massage even in reality, they can provide an alternative service for back massage or let a staff member do a simple massage. I even asked if on my next haircut, can I still get a back massage. Unfortunately, the receptionist answered that it will still not become available. I sensed an intentional misleading advertisement by the Mary Pauline's or Team Sir George's management.

I already tried salon services from cheap to expensive ones and I am happy with their services except from Mary Pauline salon. Although they did a good job on my hair and the price is still affordable, if only I know that the salon is providing only the keratin blowout, I should have got my hair treatment done on popular salons with better perks near my area instead of going to Timog.

I always give money tips or good reviews to salon staff and I was thinking of giving the same to today's staff members including the haircut stylist, but I changed my mind when they talked about back massage on their small room. I do not know if they are talking about only the back massage, after all, the point is they should not talk about that when the customer is present on their premise.

Since they had a break in the small room, I was able to politely talk and thank only the receptionist before I left the salon.

P.S: Sa ibang salon may kasama pang head massage at pa iced tea 😂 Gumanda yun hair ko pero mukhang yun pagkatrim hmm… never mind.

Tapos wala pa silang official Facebook page and website. Ayaw naman gumana yun link sa Facebook page ng iba nilang branch.

How to register as a taxpayer easy in BIR Novaliches Quezon City

2019-01-13T22:11:00.000+08:00

I registered as a taxpayer in Oct 2018. I just walked -in and completed the requirements within the day, and since it was Friday, I got my Certificate of Registration (COR) in the coming Tuesday.

This month, I will renew my Certificate of Registration in BIR as a self-employed online freelancer. I created a comprehensive guide on how to register as a self-employed taxpayer.

Also, included are my reviews for BIR Quezon City and BIR Novaliches.

I hope Wannafreelancer's BIR guide will encourage freelancers to pay their taxes.

Here it is!

How I registered as a Self employed Freelancer within a day!

Enjoy reading and subscribe to receive a free guide on how to become a freelancer!

My experience buying a budget-friendly Microsoft Office 365 license: Productkey.ph review

2018-05-21T11:18:00.001+08:00

Microsoft Office is still the best word processing and spreadsheet program that I ever used. Finding a Microsoft Office free download is like having a sense of accomplishment because getting a no expiration software is so wonderful. But risky as well. The office 365 download might have viruses, malware and keylogging software that hackers will use to steal data like passwords, credit card details and screenshots.

I bought my laptop this month and it has a trial version of Microsoft Office installed (MS Office 2016 or 365, I cannot remember). I said to myself that I will just let the license expire. I browsed through Facebook groups and I saw a post about asking where to purchase a cheap and legit product key for MS Office. I read the comments and some suggested to buy from Productkey.ph.

NOT OEM, NOT CRACKED, NOT PIRATED, NOT ILLEGAL

I checked the website to see if they are really 100% legit. It is too good to be true that they offer affordable product key prices so ordinary folks using computers can afford to have a legit, genuine and not OEM software. They have Microsoft Office 2016, Microsoft Office 365 Professional, Windows 10, McAfee, etc. I read the FAQ. If in doubt, the buyer can apply for Install now, Pay Later program. After I saw that they have the program, I decided to purchase their Microsoft Office 365 Professional Plus LIFETIME license.

Despite having an enthusiasm to buy this Microsoft suite because of their Install now Pay Later, I did not buy this on installment. I made a straight payment through paying online via BPI. I thought it is a great deal, 1,880 Php for a genuine lifetime license. Obviously better than having Microsoft Office student edition where you still have to buy it from computer stores. If I get scammed, I just have to move on since I already know the risk and I just wanted to try it.

If you don't know what kind of Microsoft Office license to purchase. Here is the difference between Microsoft Office 365 and Microsoft Office Professional Plus 2016 according to their website:

"Both of them uses the latest Office Professional Plus 2016 Apps. Both are licensed for life. However, Office Professional Plus 2016 is installable only to 1 Windows based PC and is not compatible with non Windows devices while Office 365 Professional Plus is installable on up to 5 devices that could be a PC, Mac, Tablet, Android or Iphone. Another advantage of getting Office 365 Professional Plus is that, it has a free 5 TB OneDrive Cloud which you can use to store your office files. The only downside of Office 365 Professional Plus is that, it uses a an unchangeable pre-generated username example, msoft4464@office365.pro while Office Professional Plus 2016 is attachable to your very own Microsoft account."

If you are worried about how will purchasing from productkey.ph look like, they already included some instructions on the product description so you would not be annoyed about installing the software or putting the product key correctly.

To be sure, check what Microsoft Office version do you have. If it is not MS Office 2016 or MS Office 365, you can still purchase the said software programs but you have to uninstall your current Microsoft Office program without hard feelings ^^

My Microsft Office 365 Professional Plus buying experience

- I registered an account (free of charge) on their website so I can access my purchase/order history easily when I buy another digital product, and leave a review in case I like their service.

- I ordered the product and waited for their email about payment instructions. Payment can be made through online bank transfer or direct bank deposit via BPI, BDO. They also accept money transfer via LBC, Moneygram, Palawan Express and other well-known pawnshops.

- I made my payment via BPI online bank transfer using my BPI mobile app. I sent a screenshot of my payment to the email address they provided.

- Even I made my order and payment on Sunday, I received the digital product in less than an hour through email!

Since I purchased MS Office 365 instead of MS Office 2016, login details for a pre-generated MS Office account were sent by productkey.ph to me.

I can even view it through my order history

The good thing is I can change the password and attach this account to my personal Microsoft email account. They provided a link to completely remove my current Microsoft Office license and software. This must be done to avoid licensing conflicts. The great benefit of this version is you can choose whether to install the MS Office apps on your computer or just access these online by logging in to your Microsoft Online account.

If you have a slow Internet connection and you plan to buy a USB installer from productkey.ph

Just register to your network's 1-2GB surf promo then, turn your smartphone into a WiFi hotspot so you can download the software faster on your laptop. The promo I used for my Globe mobile data is GOTSCOMBODD90 sent to 8080. It is also cheaper since the store's USB price is 680 pesos (what I saw in their McAfee product since there's no need for USB installer for MS Office 365 Pro Plus)

After I followed their clear instructions, I successfully installed the Microsoft Office suite. 365 download has never been affordable except when buying to Productkey.ph.

P.S. After purchasing the product, I received a might-be auto email thanking the buyer for the purchase and will give a certain percentage of discount in case you reviewed on their indicated online channels. I think they do this since they are a new store.

I made this Product.ph review to inform students and professionals that they can buy a legal, genuine and legit software product key or license without risking themselves to spies and hackers. The best of all, software piracy will decrease. I just read yesterday that some computer users buy product keys from eBay but I have not tried it yet. Who knows, I might find a legit seller there and post a review. :)

Japan Tourist Visa Denied? Here's how to reapply in less than a month!

2017-07-16T19:08:00.005+08:00

PLEASE READ:

Update as of Sept 2019: So far, Ms. Jessica was recently approved through appeal. You can see her story in this link.

Kindly see this website long ago shared by one of my readers who was denied a Japan visa in Riyadh but approved in Manila.

You may sort the comments by Newest to see if anyone was approved recently.

Update as of 2018: I only heard one who was approved in 2018 through appeal. Unlike in December 2017 and previous years where many can be approved through appeal, this year 2018, Japanese Embassy is very strict and there's a chance that you will be denied again or banned if you were still denied on your appeal unless, maybe, if you are really sure that you were wrongly denied, there's a special reason to be accepted, you were denied because of ridiculous reasons, or you are very confident that you will be approved. This is what terminated means: https://www.reddit.com/r/phtravel/comments/16di7lq/question_re_denied_japan_visa/

Appeal at your own risk. Please do your research based on your case and I have no connection to the Japanese Embassy to answer everything about Japan visa. I can only answer what I experienced regarding submitting requirements.

The blog post below was posted last year. I still want to share my application experiences in those two travel agencies. This serves as my review about Reli Tours and Friendship Tours.

Choose your travel agency wisely.

_____________________________________

Japan visa denied?

Need to leave for Japan in less than six months?

Your agency did not help you with your application?

You have come to the right place!

When you are denied a Japan tourist visa, you would usually wait for 6 months to reapply for a new tourist visa. However in my case, when I was rejected with my application, I was able to reapply in less than 1 month. All thanks to the effort of my new travel agency.

Before I tell my Japan visa approval and my success story behind it, I will tell what went wrong to my rejection first.

Last January 16, I applied for Japanese tourist visa through Reli Tours. Since it was my first time applying for a Japan tourist visa, I had to take note of the challenging application procedure. I was required to submit the most necessary requirements. (As of writing)

- Passport with the minimum of 6 months validity

- Visa application form (which I got from the agency or the Japan Embassy website)

- 4.5 x 4.5 cm photo with a white background which I got from Picture City

- Latest NSO birth certificate. When we applied, we submitted the 2017 copy because they might not accept the old version.)

- Latest PSA marriage contract (if applicable)

- Guarantee letter and a valid ID of the guarantor if another person, not the applicant will bear or shoulder the expenses.

- Bank Certificate

- Philippine Income Tax Return (ITR) 2316

- Tour itinerary

We should not blame travel agencies when our visas denied. Except that, when I went alone at Reli Tours in SM Megamall, the guy did not require my hotel reservation and flight itinerary despite having them on hand. His reason was these were irrelevant on the Japanese Embassy's decision. Although the embassy does not prohibit submitting those documents, and it will not hurt if the agency will include these in the application, Reli Tours still did not accept my documents. Other agencies actually encourage their applicants to provide documents supporting their application. The hotel reservation and flight itinerary were supposedly served as the assurance that we will just visit Japan and return to the Philippines.

One event that I dislike was when I claimed my passport and my sister’s to know if we were approved or denied of the visa was when the guy I had talked to made me wait for a long time. After a while, I realized that he did not look for our passports, and I had to ask someone to look for it again.

While claiming the passports, I had a bad feeling about this situation because I think our documents were insufficient to convince that we will just have a vacation in Japan, and I should not pay for the processing and should not pursue with the application on that agency.

After a few seconds of having thoughts, I was assisted by a nice looking lady. She immediately looked for our passports and handed these to me. After leaving the agency premise and the mall, I opened the passports while riding a P2P bus. Those have no stamps meaning we were denied.

Sadly, Japan embassy will not tell you the reason for the Japan visa denial and this is really how it works.

My sister and I thought that we cannot go with our family anymore for our much-awaited vacation. We thought that we were just going to stay in our house while they were enjoying the trip. They could have missed us :D

Back to the visa refusal topic, I was pretty sure that the denial is not because of insufficient funds or never been to other countries, etc. Instead of being sad, I felt angry because I knew to myself that the agency did not make an effort to have our application approved with the fact that during our application, I have with me all the documents to prove our intent to have a vacation in Japan.

Time, energy and costs for the fare and the documents just went to the drain. It is not a joke to obtain another bank certificate and the latest birth certificate again since Japan embassy doesn't accept old birth certificates. As of the time I applied for a visa which was on January 2017, the embassy only accepts 2017 (not sure on the 2016) NSO issued birth certificates.

To be fair, since Reli Tours' Japan tourist visa is cheaper by 300 pesos compared to other Japan accredited travel agencies, it might be a good idea to apply through them if you have already visited Japan. Also, before submitting the final documents on Reli Tours, I went to that agency 2 times (2 different days) for the Japan visa requirements inquiry and confirmation. The guy (not the one to whom I submitted my final documents) assisted me well.

In the next paragraph, I will discuss what we did to obtain a Japan tourist visa even after our first application got rejected. Just a note: This entry will also serve as my Reli Tours review and Friendship Tours review.

This is what will the back of the passports look like when denied. The stickers will be marked by a red pen.

Agencies said no but I called the Japan embassy

I called Friendship Tours And Resorts Corp. (a travel agency) and asked if we can reapply for a Japan visa through their agency. They said no and we have to wait for six months. I called the Japan embassy and told me no but when I told her about why we were rejected, she suggested that we can apply again to the agency of our choice but it is not guaranteed that we will be approved. Also, we have to submit an appeal letter stating why we should be approved and allowed entry to Japan.

Road to visa approval

After the call, I contacted Friendship Tours immediately and told them that I can apply there and submit the documents. After a few days, I went to Friendship Tours Dusit Thani branch and the guy who assisted me was nice and gave advice on what I can do to be approved such as having a right amount (not excessive amount) in the bank certificate for the travel and so on.. Just a few tips.

Few days after, I completed the documents and submitted those at the travel agency to the same guy I inquired to.

For a sample letter that might be used in different situations, please see the letter below as a guide. Just modify the letter depending on your situation. It is up to you on how you will write it and check for grammatical errors and stuff.

This is our appeal letter that we submitted to the Japan Embassy by including this letter on our reapplication via Friendship Tours.

To whom it may concern:

Good day!

We are _________________ and __________________, born on ____________, and ________, respectively, in Manila, Philippines, with Philippine Passport Numbers __________ and ___________, correspondingly. We both live at ____________________________________________.

We are writing this letter as reconsideration of our visa application. When we applied for visa at Reli Tours SM Megamall, two of our proofs that were supposed to be submitted were our flight itinerary with a return date on _____________, and our Hotel Confirmation for our booking at ______________. However, upon submission, the Reli Tours refused to accept these said documents, which were actually strong proofs of our tourist travel intention in Japan. On the other hand, my parents decided, later on, to instead apply at Friendship Tours Makati and were asked and able to submit a copy of our flight itinerary and hotel confirmation.

As a matter of fact, my sister, __________________, already has her multiple visa and will be traveling in Japan on her 4^th time already. Also, my parents were both granted tourist visa for the said trip. As a family, we have already travelled for multiple times, like Hong Kong, Singapore, China, Macau, Malaysia, including Australia and the United States. As proof, attached herein are copies of our old passports with immigration stamps from different countries, as well as the Japan visas granted to my sister and parents.

Lastly, this trip is intended for our father, who will be celebrating his 76^th birthday this March. My sister from Australia will even travel all the way from Sydney to Manila just to be on this trip. This will be a great gift for my father, to have a family get-together out of the country trip in Tokyo. Our family has NO RECORD of overstaying visas, illegal immigration or any of that sort.

We have also attached in this appeal our proofs of income, our certificates of employment with compensation, bank certificates, travel authority and guaranty letter.

Our whole family is flying together on ________________ to Tokyo and assured to be back in Manila on ________________. We hope you could consider our appeal as everyone and everything has already been settled before hand.

Thank you very much!

Sincerely,

A week later after the submission of documents, my mom received a call from Friendship Tours and told us about the Visa. After I got our passports (mine and my sister's), I felt happy that Japan allowed us to visit their country.

You can see here the Frienship Tours' contact details. Note: I am not paid by them :)

Love the black and white pic here. I like the design :)

I would like to say a big thank you to Aaron Tan (the guy at Friendship Tours) and the Japan consul who approved our Japan visa. Because of them, my family and I had a vacation together in Japan.

After 2 weeks, we went to Japan and stayed in Tokyo for 5 days. What I brought home are mostly Japanese desserts including Tokyo Milk Cheese Factory and Royce.

I hope I can visit Japan again!

Edit: I visited Japan again February 2020. Also please see my previous blog post if you want to learn even the basic Japanese words:

https://sarisaringisip.blogspot.com/2017/07/japan-tourist-visa-denied-heres-how-to.html

My visit to Dr. Smile

2014-03-11T20:28:00.000+08:00

Oral Prophylaxis, popularly known as Teeth cleaning, is essential to prevent gum diseases and to make our teeth cleaner. This procedure can be done every once, twice or thrice a year depending on your teeth.

Every time I have my teeth cleaning, I make an appointment to a dental clinic in Novaliches. Luckily, I have a Maxicare card and the clinic accepts it. But currently, I have a hard time going to the dental clinic's area due to my other commitments that is why I sent a private message to the Maxicare page. Thanks to their Maxibear profile picture that I was encouraged to greet Maxibear in a private message. (゜▽゜;)

The page admin promptly replied to the message. Since I gave my Maxicare ID number and the company affiliated with it, the admin sent me information through email.

Upon the list, I chose DR. SMILE DENTAL CARE & LASER CENTER - SM North Annex.

I called Dr Smile and made an appointment. Dr Smile is usually fully booked on weekends so I booked mine on Friday then, which is Jan 31, the Chinese New Year. I am glad that day is holiday so I do not need to report for work.

After two weeks, staff in Dr Smile texted me and reminded me for the appointment schedule. The day after, I went to Dr Smile.

The polite receptionist and other staff greeted me. I showed my Maxicare card and they gave me a form so I can fill it up for their records. I was fascinated that they have about 5 private dental rooms in this clinic.

The rooms are tidy and have cute designs. I entered on a room and I asked permission from the staff if I can take pictures because I cannot resist to not share the room's design. Because of this, I decided to do a Dr Smile review here in SM North.

I did not expect that two people (dentist and the staff) will work on my Oral Prophylaxis. They are polite and kind as well. I felt that they have really a hard time cleaning my teeth because the last time I have Oral Prophylaxis was about more than seven months ago.

Overall, Dr smile did a great job. The clinic is not only great on the outside but also have great service. I will be visiting this clinic again sometime for teeth filling.

DR. SMILE DENTAL CARE & LASER CENTER
Lower Ground Floor, The Annex Bldg., SM North Edsa, Quezon City
Sun. - Thu. - 10am - 9 pm/Fri.-Sat. 10am - 10 pm
921-6883/921-6913

Homemade paper money box

2014-02-21T15:14:00.000+08:00

How I came to have a paper money box? (alternative to piggy bank or coin bank for paper money or bank notes)

Since the viral post of kuripot pinay's P100 peso challenge this 2014, I wanted to do this challenge but since I am not a big salary earner and I have to diversify my savings including putting portions in the stock market, share capital of a cooperative, banks and mini insurance, I opted for the other one, the P20 peso challenge shared by user minimum compliance from wordpress.

Our bedroom is not easily invaded by strangers and I wanted to buy a coin bank for my chosen challenge. I am strict regarding to my savings so I went to trinoma and bought a choco teddy coin bank. Piggy banks are too mainstream lol! but the truth is, it is the cutest coin bank within my budget. I don't like to buy a coin bank figurine resulting to destroying it at the end of the year. I want a reusable coin bank. I decided to have the head portion of this teddy for my paper money bills and the lower portion for my coins.

I forgot the price, I think it's Php 200+

Every time I receive a new and crisp bank note a.k.a. new paper money, I want to set it aside but I cannot do this because of fearing that it might be lost if I put it on a cabinet and in-between pages of books. If I put it on a wallet, it will fold.

I searched the world wide web for finding products and solutions for this but to no avail, I just got dismayed coming to the point that I almost gave up on saving and keeping those new bills. While watching TV, an idea popped out of my mind. I remembered our old wallet boxes inside the cabinet. I searched for these and these were still durable.

In this post, I will teach you on how to make a paper money box. Homemade ones will not only save money but also save the environment by just recycling old materials.

For brief instructions, I assume that you know how to wrap gifts and put plastic covers on books.

1) Choose an empty durable box that fits all your paper bills.

2) Remove all the dirt from the box and close it. Put tape on the edges.

3) Cover the box by using tape or glue. You can use old papers, magazines or gift wrappers for your design. You can wrap or paste pictures on it.

Remember, the box must be in horizontal form so you can cut the topmost portion later for inserting the money, so be careful for your decision on the design.

4) Cover it with a single layer of plastic cover. The thicker the plastic cover material is, the better.

5) Position and mark the topmost portion of the box with your paper bill and a pen.

6) Cut it through using cutter or knife. You may use a ruler for an accurate straight line. After that, you can cut the excess portions or tape the edges for a neater look. Avoid having a wider and longer cut so the money will not fall easily when turned upside down.

7) Voila! We now have the paper money box or you can call it paper money bank, paper bills box or whatever you like as long as the purpose is to have a counterpart for a coin bank.

If you reached the end of your designated saving period and you are eager to take the money, just cut the left or right side portion and cover it again so you can use the box all over again.

Good luck with your savings!

Tado is dead. I cannot believe it!

2014-02-07T19:09:00.001+08:00

This is sad news for us that Arvin Jimenez a.k.a Tado is already dead. He was killed in a bus accident in Mt. Province. I will rejoice if those greedy people especially scumbag businessmen, politcians and Janet Napoles are dead instead of this good fellow.

It is really hard for me to admit it. I missed watching Strangebrew and his funny antics in television. He is a very funny and at the same time a smart guy and an entrepreneur.

I enjoyed watching his misadventures with Erning (Angel Rivero), Jun Sabayton and Ramon Bautista. I listened to Brewrats and liked their facebook page.

Even though I do not know them personally, their silliness and humanitarian advocacies made me feel that their intentions are really pure and can touch many hearts especially the youth's.

We miss your smile and the whole you. Goodbye Tado. :(

6 most affordable ways to review and pass JLPT N5 Exam

2014-02-02T18:47:00.006+08:00

I made a blog entry long ago about Alliance Francaise De Manille. Sadly, I and my colleagues did not take the DELF A1 exam anymore since the company was acquired by another. The reason is the new management did not want to sponsor the trainings and tests anymore. How sad T _ T

Since that incident, I decided to learn Japanese. I can practice my Japanese through immersion such as using Lang-8, reading my favorite manga and watching anime. I started studying since March 2013. I assume that you came to this entry because you are already familiar about JLPT (Japan Language Proficiency Test), its levels and you want to know how to pass the exam. I'll share you what I did to passed the JLPT N5 exam.

Registration finished! Now, I'm gonna use review materials for the JLPT.

Upon researching the JLPT 2012 results statistics, here's what I found before I did a review. I'm glad it is still available.

I knew it right? O_o

JLPT N5 has the highest passers and I think it adds that those who are already familiar with Nihongo (Japanese language) decided to take it for certification but I think taking a N5 level when you already know Japanese lacks challenge and doesn't really make sense.

However, it means that passing JLPT is really hard, knowing that almost half of the examinees still failed.

Aside from having 150 hours of basic Japanese language study within 8 months, I used these materials to help me to review with the most affordable and convenient ways as possible without having an information overload. Too much materials will be a headache.

1. Official JLPT website's question samples including audio.

It is the downloadable review materials from the JLPT site. If you are tired of compiling all the materials and just lazily want a zipped file compilation, you can subscribe to me via the feedburner located at the right side of this blog so I can send it to you. You can also try to answer sample tests here.

2. Meguro Language Center free materials.

I downloaded materials related to adjectives, particles and verbs. Nothing more nothing less.

3. Nihongo-Pro.com's quizzes and games in case you got bored.

4. Download and play apps during commute or past time. Best to use these apps on digital tablets.

Skritter - Learn to write kanji in a fun way

Image fom skritter.com

Japanese 1 - Japanese quizzes

Image from appszoom.com

Takaboto - my best free dictionary app for my Android phone and Windows computer. It includes sample sentences and can magnify each kanji for you to see clearly.

Imiwa - only available on iOS , I am using Imiwa app on my ipad.

5. If on another computer, try this sample audio from YouTube by Nihongo Den.

6. Borrow official JLPT reviewers and past JLPT samples from the library or your friends. 1-2 reviewers are already enough. Try listening audios because it is the most crucial part in passing JLPT.

Image from JLPT website

That's it! Also, I suggest these 4 supplementary tips.

Try TUTTLE Basic Japanese Kanji Volume 1 for supplementary purpose. The only problem is on page 16, nanajuu is seventy not seven. Overall, this book is still useful and I do not hesitate to buy volume two of this.

Install Japanese IME on your computer to type japanese characters especially on Lang-8 or searching something like your favorite Japanese celebrities on search engines.

For mobile users, I do not know if it works on other mobile operating systems, on IOS, set an international keyboard and try Japanese. If you are an intermediate level Japanese learner, you can turn your social networking sites such as Facebook, Twitter, etc. into Japanese.

Use Lingualift, go here to take a look

I am using Lingualift now because aside from temporarily using Duolingo, I like Lingualift's interface. It has also fun quizzes. For me, Duolingo is only good for the beginner lessons but eventually got bored of it compared to the French lessons. Both are good and Duolingo is already popular so I'll introduce Lingualift to you.

Try Rocket languages free trial to improve your hearing and speaking lessons and what makes Rocket Languages unique is you can access audio samples.

For easier sign-up, just click the laptop image.

Done! (ﾉ◕ヮ◕)ﾉ*:･ﾟ✧

I'll share on my next post my experiences while taking the exam and how I checked the results online. Congratulations to JLPT passers!

Pinay Food Junkie: My new blog about food

2014-01-26T18:45:00.001+08:00

Since almost of my posts nowadays are related to food. I made a new Filipino food blog. Check this out!

Pinay Food Junkie

This is my blog about my honest food reviews and restaurant experiences :)

Since my new site keyword search is still unsearchable in Top 3 search engines, I will share my first 4 food blog posts:

Ramen Santouka vs Kichitora of Tokyo Shoyu Ramen

Tous Les Jours: Apple Inspiration Cake review

Parvati Home Made Dessert Shop: The Pasta review

Taisho Ramen review: Hakata Tonkotsu ramen

I hope you can visit these. Thanks!

Groupon and EastWest Bank overcharge Mystery

2014-01-21T18:09:00.000+08:00

I purchased a Shi Lin voucher on Groupon Philippines using my EastWest Dolce Vita Mastercard credit card.

Then I chose to pay 500 pesos for P1000 value. The credit card payment system stated that I will pay 500 pesos for the transaction. I entered my credit card details and confirmed the payment. The transaction was successful and I received my voucher.

When my statement of account from EastWest bank arrived, I am a bit confused on why did they charge me 512.50 pesos. Isn't it supposed to be P500? I know that 12.50 is a small amount but I don't like that they made a mistake.

I contacted the Groupon customer service via the posted link on their contact section (Sorry, I forgot what my inquiry is ^^ It's sort of I inquired them where the excess charge came from).

What I like about their service is it doesn't take several days to reply and answer your inquiries. They answered within the day I emailed them.

I even registered to their Groupon Philippines Zendesk to track my queries.

Here's the trail after I sent my inquiry:

Received an auto mail after I sent my inquiry

A representative answered my inquiry:

Hi Ms ----------,

Thank you for the email.

In regards to your concern, we actually received some emails regarding the eastwest credit card overcharge which some of the bank did not, so we can refund it or put the excess charged to your groupon credits which can be use for your future purchases.

Please advise if you want to proceed.

Let me know if you have further inquiries.

Thanks,
------------
support@groupon.ph

Me:

I would like to proceed for the refund. Regarding the groupon credits, will the credits expire if you put the excess charge there?

There's no answer after this. After a day or two, I checked my account and 13 pesos was refunded to my account. After three days from my last inquiry above (a bit late actually), the representative made a reply.

Hi Ms ----------,

Thanks for your email.

I've just have requested that Php13.00 Groupon credit be put on your account.

The credit is available at the end of the working day and is valid for 12 months. You can see your available credit in the "My Credits" drop down found by clicking "My Account" on the top right hand side of the screen once logged in. Make sure you tick "Use Your Credit" when checking out to use your Groupon credit.

Please enjoy and let me know if I can help you further.

Thanks,
------------
support@groupon.ph

I am glad that my problem was solved but my questions on my mind are: How about if hundreds or thousands are wrongly charged on the purchase? Will they refund it to your credit card account? Who made a mistake? Is it Eastwest Bank or Groupon Philippines?

I hope they will fix these kind of issues if they already received emails concerning this credit card.

Kichitora of Tokyo - SM Megamall

2013-12-23T21:51:00.000+08:00

I really love ramen. I wanna go someday to Japan to taste authentic ramen. = D

Since many ramen restaurants sprouted everywhere, I searched the internet for the most delicious ramens in Metro Manila

I already tried ramen on Oki Oki, Japanese Tempura Grill (service still sucks!) Rai Rai Ken (Ali Mall) , Taisho Ramen (SM North Edsa) and Wrong Ramen (Burgos Circle, Taguig). Today's ramen post will give you a more detailed review.

from Kichitora's main site

If you are willing to spend from 300-450 pesos for ramen, Wrong ramen is really delicious and I like it. (But it is not an authentic one because of its intentionally wrong way to serve ramen, I will not recommend this to the authentic ramen questors)

I visited Little Tokyo a long time ago but sadly, I didn't have a chance to eat ramen there. T _ T

Since searching authentic ramen in the mall is much easier, I decided with my friend that after watching movie in SM North (SM Free Movie Day), we will go to the depths of MRT just to reach SM Megamall atrium.

On the second floor, we found this:

SM Megamall is their first international branch

The restaurant's ambiance is dark except the lights (of course) and the tigers wallpaper display.

Kichi 吉 means "fortunate" or "lucky" and Tora 虎 means "tiger". According to this resto, each character represents a symbol for the two families that collaborated to create Kichitora 吉虎.

Spices were arranged with the set menu.

Here comes the main menu:

I ordered Paitan Ramen Zenbu no Se

While waiting for our orders. We will be having a commercial break for Japanese culture enthusiasts.

Do you know why the word ramen "ラーメン" is written in katakana instead of hiragana or kanji?

(katakana = japanese characters used in writing foreign words)

Answer: It's because the japanese noodle soup "ラーメン" was inspired from Chinese noodle soup which tells us that it is a foreign cuisine.

Commercial/trivia ends.

After waiting for about 15 minutes of chatting:

I would like to present these larger photos:

Paitan Ramen Zenbu no Se

What I see in their professional photo is what I get. Noodles, seaweeds, chashu(s)/round pork meat, 2 eggs, onion springs, naruto (spiral condiment), bamboo shoots and I forgot the other type of green vegetable. No false advertising.

Wanting to eat the ramen, we hurriedly wanted to divide this into two bowls so my friend got a small bowl and take some of these. Gladly, the ramen is enough for the two of us.

After my friend took the half part

Upon eating, it's AWE.........................................................................................................
......SOME!!!!! wooh! yey! I didn't use any spices at all. The condiments and the noodles combination is really tasty. Can't compare what it tastes like. It's just really delicious and I cannot forget the taste.

Upon finishing my bowl of ramen:

Slurp!!! I imagine that I am in Japan and slurping is the sign that the noodle soup is delicious

Usually whenever we eat ramen, we just order one and then, we divide this by two but wait............................for this time, it's not enough for both of us, my friend ordered pork chashu with rice while I ordered guess what?

Since I decided to taste a different one, I ordered for:

Chintan/Shio/Shoyu ramen

I already knew that Shoyu means japanese soy sauce and I am expecting a soy sauce-like taste of it but I realized I like the Paitan Ramen Zenbu no Se ramen more than this. I managed to finish this one (I have to put spices, though ^^)

I am recommending this ramen to everyone especially to the ones who doesn't want to travel too far from the North to find an authentic ramen. Mall strollers are also welcome. Hoping to try Ramen Santouka soon.

Kichitora of Tokyo
2F Mega Atrium, SM Megamall
2F Glorietta 5

Kichitora's facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/KichitoraPH

Review: Azure Salon Brazilian Blowout

2013-12-23T17:25:00.000+08:00

After 4 consecutive years of having a hair rebond treatment, I decided to try something new. I want to control my frizzy hair without totally eliminating the natural waviness. Here's a brief description of Brazilian Blowout:

Smoothing treatments remove up to 95% of the frizz, add reflective shine, seal in color, fight humidity, and decrease blow dry time (if you even choose to blow dry after having this treatment). Additionally, hair can be curled or set on rollers for those days you want curls and more bounce.
- Perfect Hair Duo MODERNMOM website

Reminder: Brazilian Blowout is not a straightening treatment where chemicals altered the bonds of the hair to become permanently straight. Since brazilian blowout is only a smoothing treatment, it will only last averagelyup to 3 months because the treatment has effect only on the hair surface.

Since group buying sites are the norm for coupon junkies, I decided to look for the best deals and then I saw this:

Not bad knowing that a salon in Katipunan has lots of clientele, the deal comes with a choice of brazilian keratin blowout or hair rebond. Including with this deal are haircut, shampoo and blow dry. Since the price difference with an additional treatment is 300 pesos, I bought the 1299 one.

I called the salon and reserved a slot, a week in advance. I went to Azure Salon on the first day of its redemption period, Nov 27.

Honestly, the building and the front door didn't show coziness.

When I entered the salon, there are shell decorations. When I asked the staff about this, she said that the former name of Azure Salon is Kabibe Salon.

Ground floor reception displaying iCure products

The ground floor's space is nice but small. I am glad that they have WiFi and sofa so visitors can comfortably wait for their turn. When I was asked to climb their cute spiral staircase to the second floor for my hair washing, I found the room nice. I like the color combination, it looks professional.

2nd floor reception

2nd floor

After having my hair washed and having a matrix treatment damped on my hair for not more than five minutes, I felt my neck got stiffed for the minutes endured for trying to lie comfortably on their sink.
By the way, matrix treatment was used to soften hair especially the dry and chemically treated ones.
I climbed down to the ground floor and asked to be seated on the salon chair.

While playing with my ipad mini, I take selfie pictures :)

After the staff towel dried my hair, she put the Brazilian keratin blowout medicine for 30 mins.

Ironing my hair

After the hair ironing part, as far as I remember, the hair stylist came and did the haircut first before the staff came again and she blow-dried my hair. She told me that I must not wash my hair for 2 days and unlike rebond, I can tie my hair immediately after washing. The whole process took about 4 hours.

This is the result after the process:

The staff advised me to buy the iCure Shampoo and Conditioner because it has no sodium sulfate. I asked her the price and decided that I will not buy it since I just found that it's too expensive and I am already aware of the cheapest finds to buy these.

I am glad she did not pressure me to buy their products unlike other salons where they will pester and annoy you several times to buy the products.

Sodium Sulfate is usually listed as sodium lauryl sulfate. It is a chemical found in shampoos and soaps thus making a thick lather or bubble effect while washing and bathing.

On having the post brazilian blowout after-care treatment, it is better to use sulfate free shampoo and conditioner because it is gentler and it will make the treatment lasts until 3 months.

Upon returning home:

After 12 days of brazilian blowout:

Upon waking up

At evening

Since I am not the type who is really diligent blow-drying my hair, I am satisfied with the results since even I only let my hair dry, my stresses and frizz is manageable.

Shampoo and conditioner shipped from desertikas. The pair costs 800 pesos with 50 pesos shipping cost.

Azure Salon is located at Unit C-D Alcal Bldg. Katipunan Avenue Loyola Heights Quezon City (infront of Ateneo Gym, Beside Cravings CCA).

From LRT 1 Katipunan station, you can ride a jeep and tell the driver to stop at the overpass near Ateneo Gym.

Battle of the Xiao Long Baos part 2: Lugang Cafe

2013-08-16T13:45:00.000+08:00

This is the continuation of my last week's post:

Battle of the Xiao Long Baos: Shi Lin and Peace & Happiness

After 4 hours of studying Japanese, I often craved for Xiao Long bao so upon returning home, from Trinoma, I'll have to cross the mall bridge and pass through a lot of people on my way to satisfy my cravings at SM North the Block.

At last! I have reached this restaurant. Yey! Even though I am a frequent customer here.

The restaurant's name is somewhat disgusting for some but it is really clean. I wonder why they chose Lugang Cafe instead of Lukang Cafe. Lukang 鹿港 is one of the places in northwestern Taiwan.

I like the restaurant's look and under those tables, there are handbag holders

The cooks are making dumplings at the left side

Looks mouthwatering just like in Hong Kong but surely expensive (T T)

This is the only restaurant that I have visited where waiters are using two way radio headsets/earphone mics. They use it so communication will be easier and orders will reach to the cooks asap. Waiters are also polite and are really attentive despite of many customers ordering for this Sunday lunch. I just remembered that we went here to celebrate Father's day and still, the service was really good. Foods and drinks were still delicious.

Here it is! Lugang Cafe's Xiao Long bao:

Today's Xiao Long bao: One of these has too much meat :)

The soup's tasty and in this pic, I have already sipped more than 1/4 teaspoon of it

The whole ground pork found inside

Despite that xiao long bao here is the most expensive that I've tried (but the price gap from Shi Lin isn't really big, I think maybe just less than 100 Php price difference. Sorry, I lost the receipt ^^), the services are really the best but ambiance wise, Shi Lin is the best.

Lugang Cafe's dough doesn't break easily and the meat doesn't fall easily unlike in Shi Lin.

If spot.ph declared Shi Lin as their #1, For me it is Lugang Cafe.

If you want to know more about Lugang Cafe, just visit their official website.

Battle of the Xiao Long Baos: Shi Lin and Peace & Happiness

2013-08-08T21:53:00.002+08:00

This is a comparison between Shi Lin and PEACE & HAPPINESS Dumpling House

For part 2, Lugang Cafe review will be coming soon. :) :) :) :)

I first came addicted to Xiao Long Bao when I, together with my friends dined in Shi Lin (士林) located at Bonifacio Global City. There is also a branch in The Podium located at Ortigas.

My friends introduced me to this delicacy while listening to Teresa Teng's songs being played in the restaurant.

Since I saw spot.ph's article about the Top 10 Xiao Long bao in Manila after many months from my first Xiao Long bao, I decided to write this post so you can see the delicacy based on a commoner's experience.

I don't know if Shi Lin refers to one of the districts in Taipei, Taiwan or if it means a Stone forest. Since I am currently taking Japanese classes, there are 3 japanese writing systems, those are hiragana, katakana and kanji. Kanji came from chinese characters and whether it is used by the Chinese or Japanese, the meaning are the same even when they were saying it differently to the point that you can write these characters and show it to them even if you don't know the literal translation of these words.

Let's go back to Shi Lin, 士 means earth, ground or soil while 林 means woods.

Here's my Shi Lin experience for the nth time: (I can't remember the number of times since I'm a frequent customer)

The waiters are courteous and they respond quickly. The place is clean. They are still playing Teresa Teng's songs which I really like. My order came at the nick of time.

There's a second floor but too shy to capture it

Left side where the cooks are making dumplings

Sorry ^^, forgot to include vinegar on this photo. The vinegar looks like a soy sauce because of its color

Here's the actual amount of soup and it's really tasty

The ground pork with some onions and green veggies

6 pieces costs Php 148 while 10 pieces costs Php 246

Shi Lin has 5% service charge.

The only problem is the dumplings were easy to fall off unlike in Lugang Cafe's. ( part 2 soon :) )

Overall, Shi Lin is really tasty and worth to try for fine dining at a high end place and not too expensive price.

Prices ranges from Php 150 - 300, here's the menu.

Let's talk about, PEACE & HAPPINESS Dumpling House.
It is the cheapest that I've tried. It is located at SM Makati foodcourt.

This is my third time here so I tried the slightly spicy sauce which is normally a dip in eating siomai instead of the real sauce like in Shi Lin.

I have drank the soup and eaten 1/4 of the meat already

Not bad for Php 115 but I think the dough's too thick for my liking and it's too oily. Nevertheless, it is still delicious and worth craving for.

What is the delicious xiao long bao for you? Comments will be deeply appreciated. :)

Before this post ends, I wanted to share this video about the proper way of eating Xiao Long bao:

Update as of August 16, 2013:

Part 2 of this post is ready to be read!

Alliance Française de Manille review

2012-12-23T11:45:00.000+08:00

Bonjour à tous!

I am now reviewing for My French DELF A1 exam which will be held on March next year.

I took French classes for A1 not because I have passion for the French culture and especially not because I am a rich kid or a social climber, although I like the Adventures of Tintin, it is because I am working in a department where we serve French clients. We do emails, documents and other clerical tasks for them.

I and my teammates who didn't take the French course must enroll on our free French classes paid by our company. Luckily, the schedule of classes is within our office hours so it's a relief that we can have a little fun except if one's busy and must reach deadlines to submit documents to clients.

We had our first set of classes for 3 hours 3 times a week for about three months as long as I remember from April to June and the second set from October to November.

Personally, I like the professors. The first one is a Filipina who lived in France for so many years. The second is a French who can speak Chinese but he taught only for a short time and the last professor is also a French who can speak Tagalog and he lived here in the Philippines for ten years.

I have a hard time learning French because of the pronunciations and the spelling. Remembering the gender of things and accents such as á, ç, é and many more makes me confuse. Even I am experiencing this difficulties, the professors are fun especially the last one.

Inside our company's training room, we discuss lessons, answer activities on textbooks and online (obviously) educational french games, listen to audios, watch french movies on the last 1 1/2 hours of our class.

Since we miss our professors, we often eat at a fine dining restaurant to have a despedida.

I searched for French lesson apps and downloaded these on my ipod touch. I like the most is the free French - English dictionary app.

I hope I can take and pass the exam. After getting the A1 DELF certification. I hope I can get A2 French classes for free.

Tony and Jackey SM Fairview

2012-12-22T16:24:00.002+08:00

Overall, this is my fourth time to have my hair rebonded so I decided to search for a salon with good quality service and cheap prices.

I will be having a L'Oreal Extenso again at Tony and Jackey because of their 18 Days Promo. I went there at SM Fairview, November 15, the last day of their promo.

This is cheaper than their last year's promo. I had my first L'Oreal Extenso at T&J SM The Block.

I visited T&J Fairview years ago to have my haircut. Now, their location inside the mall is now on the third level where cinemas are located. (Someone said there are two T&Js in SM Fairview) They also now have digital mirrors.

The Pinay stylist and the Korean stylist are really nice and friendly. The Korean stylist's name is Yuki. When she observed my dry hair, she suggested on using a product that will result to a softer hair. Since I didn't bring extra money and they don't accept credit cards, I told her about it and she asked if it's okay for me to replace the Herba manicure treatment with the product she's offering.. Without any doubts and second thoughts, I agreed immediately.

She's the Pinay stylist. She looks korean. I forgot to have a picture with my korean stylist

One of the assistants is nice .She's really friendly, careful and also massaged my hands using lotion.

The other tends to be annoying and did a little disaster which ends me up of not giving a tip (money) to her.

Yuki is the girl behind me who wears a ribbon.
.

I tried to watch a movie but ended up not using it.

Earphones provided by them

Like the last year's procedure, it lasted for 3 1/2 hours and the advices are the same.
I thanked them and the receptionist. I forgot to get the receipt so I came back immediately and while getting my receipt, the assistant who did my hand massage greeted and thanked me. Too bad I forgot to give her a tip, she's nice pa man din..

Here's the result:

I am happy that I agreed to Yuki's recommendation. My hair's softer and shinier than before.

Even today is December 22, the day after the so called end of the world, I still have this kind of hair.
I maintain this by not washing my hair everyday (I mean just not washing it 2x a week but not on two consecutive days) and by using Human Heart Nature Natural Intensive Hair Mask once a week. Just to be sure, I also use a wooden comb because plastic combs tend to have static that will result to some rising hair.

Barre 3 DVD and fit core ball Philippines

2012-11-24T21:09:00.001+08:00

I enrolled last 3 weeks ago at Barre3 in Trinoma. Since I have the Belle De Jour planner coupon, the Php 1500 for 3 classes within 2 weeks became 4 classes. I saved P700. Sadly, I didn't took a photo of the card they gave me to attend classes.

The first day is really hard. Since my flexibility skills are poor, I felt jittery and shaked a lot. When I talked to the instructor, Celine, she said this is normal.

For beginners, I suggest you take even a single private class if you don't want to be a special mention during class (like I did ^^ but I didn't really mind that because they thought me in a right and nice manner) and if you have poor balancing and flexibility skills. After 3 classes, I can slightly follow the moves.

I felt happy on my last class because we are only 4 in the studio including the instructor. I also have a friendly talk to one of my classmates. She's lean even she's only attending once a week. The reason, she's eating vegetables and fruits often especially the former.

After I completed my classes, I didn't go to the gym and Barre3 for a week because of having a hair rebond done at Tony and Jackey Salon.

At home, I downloaded the Total Body Lift Workout DVD for the reason that purchasing the DVD isn't worth it. After watching the workout, I really like it because you can use dumbbells, chair, mat and ball/towel.

I called Barre3 (a.k.a The Spa because they're the franchisee here in the Philippines) and inquired if they sell the core ball. Gladly, they really sell the DVD + barre3 Core ball for Php 1500.

Today, I went to Trinoma shopping for wooden combs and hair products.
Failed to avail the exercise or pilates mat from various sports shops, I am planning to look for puzzle mats in our house. I hope I can still find those.

Going to the 3rd floor and reaching The Spa, I bought the package.

.
I read the instructions but ...........

After unwrapping the package, I think I'll just use my instinct to inflate the ball. I will share this so you will have an idea about the ball's inflation procedures.

Included are two plugs and a straw

Blowing this using a straw is easier than blowing a small balloon. Removing straw and plugging it is harder than I thought.

Plug it ( " , )

Burying the plug using both index fingers is the most effective method

The package says it's a 9 inch ball. I'm afraid inflating the ball this big will have a possibility to explode during my Barre3 exercise so I inflated it up to 8.5 inches.

To be sure, I used another ruler to measure this.

At last! The ball is now ready to use.

I am planning to attend again Barre3 for 10 classes within two months. I'll just attend the class once a week and pratice Barre3 at home twice or thrice a week. I will still go to the gym because I know Barre3 isn't enough for my waist inches lost challenge.

Celina's cafe and restaurant

2012-11-04T19:08:00.000+08:00

Hi again everybody! I didn't update my blog for so long because of my vacation in Hong Kong, Macau, Shenzhen (China) and Kota Kinabalu (Malaysia). Also, I procrastinated in doing posts about my vacation. You can also inquire/comment for these countries' tourist information such as transpo, places to visit, etc.

Since you are curious about the deals in TCAT and Metrodeal, now, here is our experience in Celina's Cafe and Restaurant in Tagaytay using our metrodeal vouchers.

We expected that the place will be like an eatery style. When we reached there, Celina's is really a restaurant and a decent place despite it's cheap buffet.

It's dinner time and the wind's really cold like a Baguio breeze.

I know that my iPod's camera sucked and I used this anyway to capture the supposedly beautiful orange moon

Now back to the resto, the con for the metrodeal voucher promo is.......

The actual price of the buffet is also P299 not P600. I knew it already when I searched blogs about this but since food is delicious and cheap according to them, we decided to buy this deal.
An additional con for this is, the signage on the highway near Gerry's Grill isn't big, isn't bright and hardly read/seen.

The pros...
I enjoyed their food because it's really delicious and worth for its price. The staff are approachable and courteous. Their specialties are bulalo and the salads.

Looks mediocre, right! But when you taste these, it's really yummy :)

The other one's Kare Kare

Sisig and burger mushroom with gravy

Papaitan and the delicious/almost meat not bones bulalo

The resto has also a water dispenser. Despite the inclusion of cafe on it's name, coffee isn't included in the buffet and you have to order it on an expensive price of P75 and I will rather buy a cup of coffee at Starbucks.

Celina's is located near (not inside) Summit Ridge and within restaurants of Gerry's Grill.

Beat karaoke bar

2012-01-22T12:11:00.003+08:00

We went there after work to celebrate, sing and enjoy delicious snacks. I did sing on videokes before but only on restaurants and small stalls in arcades.

This is my first time going to a videoke bar

My friend reserved a room for 5. After office hours, we went there and got the biggest room. It is also the same night were Mickey Ferriols went there.

Courtesy of Beat

It's strange that no matter what room size you reserve/get, the rates for people are still the same and there's no price based on the room size.

The rate is P80/person/per hour. We paid worth P400/person/3 hours with 2 iced teas or softdrinks.

The songs are updated and microphones are sound proof ( Correct me if I'm wrong, I mean when we sing, our annoying voices will not be heard by rooms near to us) At first, the staff said that one of our mics when used, will be heard by other rooms so they changed it. Speakers' brand is Bose and another equipment that I saw is Shure. The machine has also a timer.

While we sing, the videos were showing Korean 3D/2D animated videos instead of people being emo and sexy women on bikinis.We also played some MTVs.

The songbook is organized by MTVs, music with voices, etc. Super Bass by Nick Minaj is also available.

the whole menu

Eating is also a joy. We ordered Party platter's 680 and 420.

The actual:

As I mentioned above, the drinks were already included on our videoke rate.

We ate some of this first before I took a pic ^^

I know when you look at the menu, you think those are expensive.
When we took a bite, the food were delicious especially the meat. The marinate itself is delicious :D
The iced tea's taste isn't generic. It tastes like the ones made in 5 star hotels.

Even we were overtime, we still sang the last song we reserved and when we tried to reserve another one, it didn't work already. I preferred this instead of a staff coming to you and will say you're overtime like those in low tech computer shops.

Overall, we enjoyed the night and went home happy.

Located in : 2/F Unit 1 Bellagio Retail, Forbestown Road, Burgos Circle, Bonifacio Global City, 1634 Taguig, Philippines

Just go inside Serenitea and then climb the stairs.

Also, visit their facebook page for more details.

BANG'S Tony and Jackey rebond review

2011-12-29T09:06:00.002+08:00

Two months ago, I decided to have a rebond because my hair gets frizzy again.
I planned my quest to look for a salon that offers L'Oreal Extenso because my hair will undergo a 3rd hair straightening session and I am afraid that my hair will become damaged/too straight.

L'Oreal Extenso is a hair straightening with volume.
WARNING: If you want to have pinned/literally straight hair, don't try this, it will feel you disappointed.

I can't visit Cosmopolitan Salon anymore because it is now far away. I just went to Cosmopolitan back then because it is near on my school. I am planning to go to Heaven's Beauty Salon and Spa but they don't have the L'Oreal Extenso.

My sister told me that there's a promo at Bang's Tony and Jackey so I decided to have my adventure at SM North Edsa The Block to look for this Korean salon.

Since TandJ there is a newly opened branch, when I went there, they gave me a flyer like this:

I don't know if the real spelling of the L'Oreal product is really Extenso or X-tenso. Anyway, I do still have faith that they're using a real L'Oreal product.

Since I think that my hair needs not only to be straightened but also to be strengthened, I availed the P5000 package which consists of L'Oreal Extenso Rebonding, Arte Herba Manicure, Keratin Treatment and Haircut.

The place is bigger and nicer than the SM Fairview branch. The ambiance is really cozy.

They also have digital mirrors but didn't use mine because I am busy using my ipod touch.

My korean stylist will be Sir Jason and the assistant will be Erika (not sure for the spelling ^^)

The assistant is kind and careful, unlike others that were too fast or too slow in combing and showering hair.

They did the Keratin process first before they did the rebond. I don't remember the whole process but the unique ones were my hair having aluminum foiled and heating my hair using their automatic hair heater which it has sort of red light bulbs.

It has also a timer unlike the ones you watch in Tagalog movies were the customer's hair was burnt and then she will be pulling the hair of the parlorista who did it.

I am happy with the end results. My hair looks beautifully natural. I also gave Sir Jason and Erika tips for it. (money not advice)

Never washed my hair within two days and never had my hair tucked under my ear for one week.

This is my hair the day after the process:

This is my current hair. I am glad it is still beautiful and silky smooth.

The hair straightening/rebonding here is a success. If I will have a rebond and there's a promo again at TandJ, I'll definitely come back!

P.S.

Please visit Tony and Jackey's facebook page for more pics and details:

http://www.facebook.com/tonyandjackey

Also visit reviews for:

Cosmopolitan Salon and Heaven's Salon

Sari-saring-isip

How I got my 10-year Multiple Entry US Tourist Visa from the Philippines

How to get a US Tourist Visa from the Philippines

-Documents to prepare for the interview

- My personal tips to ace your US visa interview

Arrived near the US EmbassyLocker or Storage facility outside and near the US embassyToilet / CR while lining up at the US Embassy for a visa interviewInside the Embassy and the 3 steps for less than an hourInterview QuestionsHow to check the Visa statusPublic transport / Commute or car

How I applied for my US Tourist Visa and scheduled my interview (short version):

I want to update / correct my DS-160 application form. Can I edit or change it after I schedule my appointment?

Locker or Storage facility in VFS US Visa Biometrics Parqal Mall

How I Prepared for my US Visa Interview

These are the videos that helped me the most in my profile:

- When the consul is serious and intimidating

- 1st time to travel abroad (this is where I got the idea of not bringing a large file/folder organizer)

Documents to prepare for the interview

My personal tips to ace your US visa interview

Locker or Storage facility outside and near the US embassy

Arrived near the US Embassy

Toilet / CR while lining up at the US Embassy for a visa interview

While waiting outside the embassy (1 hour)

Inside the Embassy and the 3 steps for less than an hour

Interview Questions

Here are the questions the consul asked me

How to check the Visa status

Public transport / Commute or car

From Novaliches to Parqal Mall

From Parqal Mall to Novaliches

From Novaliches to the US Embassy car advice

From the US Embassy to Novaliches

ITOEN vs. KAGOSHIMA JAPANESE GREEN TEA Co. Matcha comparison Match!

Olay BodyScience Creme Body Wash Review: Home Buddies Giveaway

How I got these Olay Bodyscience items

Olay Body Wash Creme Texture comparison

B3+ Vitamin C Cleansing and Brightening

B3+ Peptide Cleansing and Firming

B3+ Hyaluronic Acid Cleansing and Nourishing

How are these on my skin

Another Japan Visa Appeal Success Story by Ms. Jessica

Schengen Visa Denied and Rejected Several Times in a Row. A Cover or Appeal Letter Success Story

I am the VISA DENIAL QUEEN.

Mary Pauline Salon Keratin Blowdry Review Timog (near Luxent Hotel and Dampa) - Metrodeal voucher experience

How to register as a taxpayer easy in BIR Novaliches Quezon City

My experience buying a budget-friendly Microsoft Office 365 license: Productkey.ph review

Japan Tourist Visa Denied? Here's how to reapply in less than a month!

Agencies said no but I called the Japan embassy

Road to visa approval

My visit to Dr. Smile

Homemade paper money box

Tado is dead. I cannot believe it!

6 most affordable ways to review and pass JLPT N5 Exam

Pinay Food Junkie: My new blog about food

Ramen Santouka vs Kichitora of Tokyo Shoyu Ramen

Tous Les Jours: Apple Inspiration Cake review

Parvati Home Made Dessert Shop: The Pasta review

Taisho Ramen review: Hakata Tonkotsu ramen

Groupon and EastWest Bank overcharge Mystery

Kichitora of Tokyo - SM Megamall

Review: Azure Salon Brazilian Blowout

Battle of the Xiao Long Baos part 2: Lugang Cafe

Battle of the Xiao Long Baos: Shi Lin and Peace & Happiness

Battle of the Xiao Long Baos: Shi Lin and Peace & Happiness

Alliance Française de Manille review

Tony and Jackey SM Fairview

Barre 3 DVD and fit core ball Philippines

Celina's cafe and restaurant

Beat karaoke bar

BANG'S Tony and Jackey rebond review

Arrived near the US Embassy
Locker or Storage facility outside and near the US embassy
Toilet / CR while lining up at the US Embassy for a visa interview
Inside the Embassy and the 3 steps for less than an hour
Interview Questions
How to check the Visa status
Public transport / Commute or car