Stealing Time

We're Pregnant :)

noreply@blogger.com (Send link) — Mon, 20 Oct 2014 22:30:00 +0000

I recently found out exactly September 25, 2014 that I was pregnant. Funny thing is I never really new that I would be since I've been wanting one since May of 2014, but I guess work and stress really got in the way. I took 4 pregnancy test all turned out positive, I told Tigran we were having a baby he was really excited. He keep saying "yes jackpot" and told me he was really excited to becoming a dad. We couldn't tell my mom or his mom since we're not yet married. (to readers out there, it's your personal choice whether you want to get married and have a kid or vice versa like what we did).

I guess, I was never the marrying type I always wanted to go on my own though we've been together for the past 3 years now and I am really happy with him. But I just never saw myself settling down at 25, as I think he also did. That's why when I asked him if we should have a baby I think he took it as sign that he was the one that I would want to settle for the rest of my life but was to afraid to tell him directly. I always have a funny thought playing in my head that I have not traveled enough or accomplished enough to settle down, but then again I said it's not the number of places you've been in your lifetime but the actual feeling of being content in just being in one place, I guess that is the true happiness, since not a lot of people can do that, though a lot of people can travel and move out and just walk away from family. I guess we all choose our path of happiness, as I would now be choosing to travel with my soon to be little family. I do look forward to taking the little one on silly one day road trip or food hunt or wherever, as long as we are together.

It was funny, I had the baby checked and we found out I was already 6 weeks with our baby. I was surprised since I told my doctor we'd been travelling back and forth to Baler for the whole month of August and I was really craving for Decaf Caramel Macchiato, for the whole duration of August till the day I found out I was pregnant, I would drink Grande or Venti Decaf Caramel Macchiato at Starbucks everyday, I was afraid of the effect to our baby. But my doctor assured us that we can put the past behind and try to provide as much nutrients to baby as possible.

Another challenge we had to face aside from telling our parents that they are soon to be grandparents was that I had Myoma Uteri, I had to undergo a month of bed rest inorder to avoid miscarriage. We called Tigran's mom after and told her about the news she was ecstatic I could feel her energy coming from the other line, she was really looking forward to becoming a Lola or Grand Mother since this is her first, for my mom this would be her fifth so I guess she wouldn't be that enthusiastic but she'll still be happy to have another addition to our big family.

My doctor advised me to do at least 90% bed rest, no long distance walking, even riding the car for more than 20km is prohibited. I had to take Duphaston to help prevent miscarriage and also Cefalin to cure my UTI, which my doctor said is quite common for pregnant women.

After 3 weeks, it was the check up that we have both been praying to have a positive result and also dreading to go to but we have to. We were both in the OB GYN ultrasound and I was really nervous, I know that Tigran was really scared too, but we were putting everything in God's hand whatever is the outcome of this, if the baby would not have a heartbeat and we had to terminate then we have to accept it since God always has a plan. But we know God is good, he would not give this blessing if it was not meant for us.

As the OBGYN was checking the small round sac in my belly, she was a bit worried because there was no heartbeat. She kept on checking and checking but there was none, she was already explaining that and typing that there is no cardiac response on the little sac I have inside. I was holding back my tears and Tigran was rubbing my forehead and touching my hair we were really quiet even her assistant was quiet. Then by some miracle we saw a heartbeat, it was fast like a blinking light we could see it on the ultrasound monitor and we all rejoiced. The baby have a strong heartbeat that's what she said and the baby was growing since from the measurement of the sac, it seems that the baby is already eating. I couldn't put into words what I was feeling, we were both overwhelmed with joy. Thanking everyone who prayed for me and my baby, for my family, everyone who remembered and included us in their prayers. We thank God for this wonderful gift and we would do our best to keep this baby safe and help do good.

God is Good :)

DAY 2: Hongkong Disneyland and Victoria Harbour

noreply@blogger.com (Send link) — Tue, 23 Sep 2014 10:08:00 +0000

Being a kid at Hongkong Disneyland

We woke up extra early since our itinerary were quite full, morning till afternoon would be for Hongkong Disneyland, then just before dawn we need to go to the Avenue of Stars and Victoria Harbour, then go back to Disneyland for closing parade and fireworks.

From Silka Far East Hotel in Tsuen Wan we rode the train going to the line were Disneyland Resort Station is, which is near the airport mtr line. From Tsuen Wan to Disneyland, the fare price is around HKD15 (PHP87). Commuting in Hongkong is very convenient since trains are interconnected, so it's very easy to go to different tourist spots and shopping districts.

We bought our tickets to Disneyland online I think about 2 days before our flight, this is to avoid the long queue on the ticket booths at Disneyland. I usually buy tickets online if I could, because I don't want to waste my time on queue since, I know that my vacation is always numbered so I want to maximize everything. Good thing tho, because when we went there all ticket booths are lined up with at least 50 persons, we bypassed the normal line and proceeded to the online express ticket booth and, Voila! 3 minutes we are inside Disneyland.

Sorry if the photo is a bit vintage looking, I am trying out certain look and feel
till I get what style I want. I am trying to explore Lomo type of photos

Hongkong Disneyland

Happy <3

Again, at the end of this article you will see the different modes of transportation to get to Hongkong Disneyland Resort. Don't worry it's really easy and remember even if you get lost, don't worry just enjoy it, you'll get there no matter what.

Make sure to wear comfy shoes since this is quite a huge theme park, there are omnibus and taxi cabs that could take you around Hongkond Disneyland Park, though there is always a designated stops for this kind of free transportation. But still, you can enjoy the time riding the double decker omnibus and just take in the beauty of your surroundings.

Omnibus - Double Decker

Taxi cab and the moving piano player

Hongkong Disneyland Resort is divided into 7 areas, you can view the divisions here. I would prefer strolling to get around the park, though we missed one area which is Tomorrow land since the place was swarming with people.

We also got to meet a Disney Princess, Princess Aurora the Sleeping Beauty. Big round of applause for their staff, they really embodied their respective characters.

Princess Aurora - Sleeping Beauty

I am not sure if I have photos of the different areas, but I'll posts those that I have. Kids would really enjoy this theme park. The rides are quite friendly and for those that are not so thrill seekers you'd really enjoy the rides here. Most thrilling rides I guess are those located at Toy Story Land. Without further ado, I'm summing up our Disneyland experience below :

1. Main Street, US

- mostly souvenir shops and food stores.

Main Street, US at Hongkong Disneyland

2. Fantasy Land

Sleeping Beauty's Castle

Cinderella Carousel (above) and
Dumbo the Flying Elephant (below)

Cinderella Carousel (left) & Fantasy Garden (right)

Fantasy Land Station

3. Toy Story Land

- I guess from the 7 areas at Disneyland, probably the RC Racer and Toy Soldier Parachute Drop would be the most thrilling. But still, good enough not to scare your little ones.

Toy Soldier Parachute Drop

Toy Soldier Boot Camp

4. Grizzly Gulch

- Don't forget to ride Big Grizzly Mountain Runaway Mine Cars, it's exciting and I really liked the view whilst on the ride. Sorry no photo was taken since we had to leave the stuff underneath our cabins.

Part of the attraction on Geyser Gulch

Beat your opponent using water guns

5. Mystic Point

- I won't tell you what's inside, but I'm sure you'll like it. hehe let's leave a bit of mystery on Mystic Manor :).

Mystic Manor

6 & 7. Tomorrow Land and Adventure Land

Took no photos here, I guess we were really tired from all the walking and we wanted to enjoy what else is in Disneyland. You can view their website for more info, just click here.

Nightscapes at Victoria Harbour

We forgot what time it was while we were at Disneyland, we left around 1730H (GMT+8) when dusk was settling in the horizon. We were a bit skeptical if we could still reach Victoria Harbour on time for our target sun position, where the sky is orange and pink. But sadly, it was already dark when we got to Victoria Harbour.

To get to Victoria Harbour and Avenue of Stars, you have to ride the Disneyland Train and transfer to Sunny Bay Line and alight at Kowloon. From there walk about 5-10 minutes till you arrive at Victoria Harbour.

There was an event during that time and people were coming from everywhere to watch the night show. It was really cold, my face was numb and my hands were shaking. We had a hard time setting up for a photo since there were people walking around and the wind was blowing hard. It was a nice cityscape, we tried our best to catch the pink sky during sunset but we weren't lucky. We just thought "Hey, we can always go back here", that's the spirit!

Avenue of stars is just by the bay, if you want to know more about this area click here.

at Victoria Harbour, on the right is Tigran's favorite building - Bank of China

Victoria Harbour - just before the pink sky disappear

Victoria Harbour

As were both admiring and looking at the wonderful view of Victoria Harbour, he held me close and hugged me from behind. He was holding my hands since it's always cold, and then he kissed my cheeks, I blushed. I realized that these are the things I missed while traveling and experience the world alone. I thought to myself, I have done my fair share of traveling alone, and now I am glad to have found someone who lust for life like I do. I am looking forward to more of this, to the start of our endless stories, of getting lost and finding the right way, and unforgettable memories that we will talk about till we get old.
------

How to get to Hongkong Disneyland Resort :

By MTR Disneyland Resort Line
The conveniently located Disneyland Resort Station is your gateway into the magic.

By Bus
Both Local and Cross-boundary buses are available to take you to and from Hong Kong Disneyland.

By Car or Coach
Parking facilities are available for private cars and coaches.

By Taxi
Three types of taxis - Urban taxis, New Territories taxis, Lantau taxis - provide transportation services to and from Hong Kong Disneyland.

By Ferry
Scheduled ferry service - COMING SOON! Guests can walk from the ferry pier along the Park Promenade to the Theme Park in about 15 minutes.

Day 1 Part 2: Lei Cheng UK Han Tomb Museum and Peak Tram

noreply@blogger.com (Send link) — Tue, 16 Sep 2014 08:31:00 +0000

Continuation of our Day 1 Tour in Hongkong, if you want to go back to the previous article please click here. I am warning you this is a long post since I am detailing as much as I could remember for readers who would want to do their own DIY tour in Hongkong, China.

After eating lunch, we searched for a tourist spot near Sham Shui Po since we were already there. The map pointed us in a place called Lei Cheng Uk Han Tomb Museum, which was less than 2km from Alpui Flea Market, we decided to ride the train and alight at Cheung Sha Wan Station (1 station away from Sham Shui Po, view HK MTR MAP). From Cheung Sha Wan Station, take Exit A and walk along Tonkin Street for approximately five minutes.

Cheung Sha Wan MTR Station

Take Exit A from Cheung Sha Wan Station and you'll arrive at Tonkin Street

I really liked that everywhere there are pigeons on the streets, I was almost about to feed them with crackers when I saw a sign that it is prohibited to feed them! haha Save by the sign :). Post boxes are still well scattered, which made me happy knowing that papers and letters are not obsolete on these parts of the world where almost everyone owns a smart phone.

Walk till you reach Poon Road, then cross it you will see a Tai Chi Park which is beside Lei Cheung Uk Han Tomb Museum. We decided to explore the park first and take a few snapshot of the place. You have to be very quiet here since this a place where a lot of senior citizen are practicing Tai Chi.

The photo was taken at Poon Road, cross this to get to Lei Cheng Uk Han Tomb Museum. Almost everywhere Hongkong streets are always full of people, busy going about their business. It amazes me also how everyone even the old people seems to be doing something. I don't see people just sitting or drinking on the side of the street, they're always doing something.

Below is the entrance for the park before Lei Cheng Uk Han Tomb Museum, you can drop by and rest if you're tired or drink some hot tea you could buy on the store along side Tonkin Street. Just watch and admire the chilly breeze of March wind at Hongkong.

Entrance to the Park

Tai Chi Statue

After a few snapshots, we decided to go the Tomb Museum. Sadly the exhibit area was closed for renovation during our visit. Though we did see the tomb that they excavated, here's a little history on Lei Cheng Uk Han Museum - In 1955, when levelling a slope for the construction of resettlement villages in Lei Cheng Uk, a government work team stumbled upon a mysterious four-chamber tomb. Its inscriptions revealed it dated back to the Eastern Han dynasty (25–220) and it has since been preserved as a Declared Monument. source : Discover Hongkong

The Tomb

Entrance to Lei Cheng Uk Han Tom Museum

Peak Tram & Madame Tussauds

We availed the last show for Madame Tussauds which I guess is quite a promo we scored, you can view the rates on Madame Tussauds website. I would recommend buying this since this is 50% off, and plus having to go the last 2 hours before closing is way better than going there early in the morning were a lot of people are in the wax museum. During the last hours of the show, you get to maximize your time and take as much photo as you want of your favorite celebrities since there are less people queuing. If you want to view the other activities in Peak Tram you can go there early and buy your ticket for Sky Terrace 428.

We weren't able to go there early and view the Sky Terrace since it was drizzling, we decided to hang out near Shanghai tower till the drizzle stops. I would suggest to buy 2 way tickets for Peak Tram using your Octopus Card since it's cheaper and easier specially if you're catching the last show of Madame Tussuads. I'll tell you below on how we got from Tsuen Wan to Peak Tram and where we purchased our tickets.

at Madame Tussauds with Nicole Kidman and Brangelina

The Beatles - my all time favorite band
thanks to my Dad's influence

Einstein and Donnie Yen - both our favorite persons

Wolverine,Hulk and Iron Man

Audrey Hepburn, Hitler, Johnny Depp and Muhammad Ali

Where to purchase :

All tickets are sold at Garden Road Peak Tram Lower Terminus or appointed travel agents.

Peak Tram Upper Terminus (The Peak Tower) sells Peak Tram tickets (Return & Single) only.

For information on ticket prices on Peak Tram, Peak Tram Sky Pass, please click here

Peak Tram Operating Hours :

7 am to 12 midnight(Mon - Sun & Public Holidays)

Frequency : Departs every 10 to 15 minutes

Sky Terrace 428 Opening Hours :

10 am to 11 pm(Mon - Fri)

8 am to 11 pm(Sat, Sun & Public Holidays)

By Bus to Garden Road Peak Tram Lower Terminus

Board the Peak Tram shuttle bus No. 15C at the Central(Near Star Ferry Pier 8) Bus Terminus.

Daily : 10:00 am to 11:40 pm(from Man Kwong Street outside Central(Pier 7) )

Daily : 10:15am to 11:55pm(from Garden Road Peak Tram Lower Terminus)

Frequency : 15 to 20 minutes

Fare : HK$4.20

Routing Remark :

Half fare for Children under the age of 12 & Seniors aged 65 or over.

Open Top Sightseeing Bus is operated every 30 minutes approximately

Upon unavailability of Open Top Sightseeing Bus, double deck or single deck air-conditioned bus will be deployed to substitute.

By taxi to Garden Road Peak Tram Lower Terminus

Please show to the driver ”中環花園道山頂纜車總站”

Peak Tram Lower Terminus :

33 Garden Road, Central, Hong Kong

Tel :(852) 2522 0922

Fax :(852) 2849 6237

Website : www.thepeak.com.hk

Email : info@thepeak.com.hk

How to get there :

You may also choose to take other forms of public transportation to reach the Peak, including buses, minibuses or taxis.

By Bus

Route No. 15(First Bus) Normal

Central Pier 5 to The Peak

Daily : 10:15 am to 12:15 am(from Man Kwong Street outside Central(Pier 5))

Daily : 9:10 am to 1:00 am(from The Peak)

Frequency : 7 to 15 minutes

Fare : HK$ 9.80

Route No. 15B(First Bus)

Causeway Bay(1 King's Road inside Park Towers) to The Peak Sundays and Public

Holidays only : 12:00am - 7:00pm(from Tin Hau)

12:40am - 7:40pm(from The Peak)

Frequency : 20 minutes

Fare : HK$9.60

(Available on Sundays & Public Holidays only)

Website: www.nwfb.com.hk

By Mini Bus

Minibus No. 1

Central(Two IFC) to The Peak

Daily : 6:30am - 12:00am (from Central)

Daily : 7:10am - 12:25am (from The Peak)

Frequency : 10-12 minutes

Fare : HK$9.20

By Taxi

Taxis are plentiful throughout Hong Kong apart from remote areas, and can be hailed on the street(except restricted areas) or summoned by phone. All are metered, relatively cheap, air-conditioned and clean.

In 1955, when levelling a slope for the construction of resettlement villages in Lei Cheng Uk, a government work team stumbled upon a mysterious four-chamber tomb. Its inscriptions revealed it dated back to the Eastern Han dynasty (25–220) and it has since been preserved as a Declared Monument.

Source: http://www.discoverhongkong.com/eng/see-do/culture-heritage/museums/history/lei-cheng-uk-han-tomb-museum.jsp#ixzz3DSxWv6Go

Day 1 Part 1: Airport, Flea Market, Trains and getting to know Hongkong

noreply@blogger.com (Send link) — Mon, 15 Sep 2014 10:43:00 +0000

This marks our first international trip together as a couple, though we've both been traveling around different parts of Asia him mostly with his family and me, well I am always traveling alone till I met him. Which made me realize there is indeed a beauty when you're traveling with someone that you're comfortable with and as excited as you to learn about new things. I thought I would not enjoy since I believe he might be a sort of an excess baggage and another emotional key chain that I need to carry around. But hence, he helped me and with his tech savvy-ness guided me to the different places that I listed on our itinerary. We have been traveling together for a year now, but mostly domestic flights and long drive in different provinces here in the Philippines.

Our carrier for this Hongkong, China trip is Cebu Pacific Airlines, you can get promo tickets here I got ours for roughly PHP5700 (130USD) good for 2pax back and forth. You can see I like traveling on a budget when it comes to booking an airline, I want as much as possible to indulge on food, experience and other stuff that could be found at that place, for me this is money well spent.

Bound to Hongkong via Cebu Pacific

We arrived on a cold morning, temperature is around (12-15 degrees Celsius) coming from a tropical country this is chilly for me. I really like their spacious airport reminds me of Thailand and Malaysia. Remember to buy your Octupus Card at the kiosk inside the airport, this is one card for all transportation in Hongkong it's really handy and valid for 5 years.

One thing we did wrong when we arrived was to ride the airport express train to Lai King interchange (orange line) in order to go to the interchange station to get to Red line MTR, so we can go to our hotel which is situated in Tsuen Wan at the far end of Red line, you can view the map here : Hongkong MTR as of 2014. As I was saying, the airport express train costs HKD60 plus the other stations we need to ride to get to the Silka Far East Hotel which is Tsuen Wan. So if you're on a budget or a more bus kinda person you can opt to try for a bus to take your hotel which will be way cheaper than riding the train.

At Hongkong International Airport

Tigran and I at the Hongkong Airport Express Train

I got our hotel booking from Agoda, they really offer big discounts. I got our room for only 5000PHP (800HKD, 113USD) a night, really cheap considering it was a deluxe suite. Don't get your hopes to high even if you are in a 4star - 5 star hotel, rooms are quite small since people are maximizing the small spaces in Hongkong. I like the hotel even if it was small since it's quite close the MRT and there is a market place that serves great duck dishes, century eggs and wantons.

No plans for the morning of Day 1, we wanted to explore first the location that we are at. It has been a habit of mine to get to know my surroundings before I ran off to my destination, it somewhat gives me a secure feeling that I am aware of my surroundings and possible landmarks to aid me if ever I get lost.

Mini Bus at Tsuen Wan

Tsuen Wan, Hongkong

Me loving the chilly weather of Hongkong

While we were looking around the Tsuen Wan, this is a bit weird really even for us, we were really hungry coming from the flight and we couldn't find any authentic Cantonese restaurant since it was a bit early, we decided to just eat at McDonalds. :( I am not a type of person who tries the stereotypical food, I would never do this if there was another option. I always go for the what-is-the-country-known-for type of girl, I try my best to experience what the country has to offer.

Our Mc Donalds breakfast Menu

Thank God for the abundant Wi-Fi spots around Tsuen Wan we managed to find a place to look for a tripod since we left ours in the Philippines. There was a lot of camera shops in Sham Shui Pio, and on the few sites that we visited they really recommend this. We got off at Sham Shui Pio station, FYI it was really easy to use the trains here since everything is interconnected you just have to find the right stop and do not lose your Octopus Card.

It was a haven of different electronic gadgets and other handy items you usually see on flea markets. Class A watches, shoes, clothes, camera and phone accessories it's very similar to our country's Divisoria. Here we bought our new tripod for HKD 95, which was really a bargain since he started with HKD 180 then I haggled and ask for discounts till we arrived at a compromise which is HKD 95. We also went around Apliu Street, these are streets full of flea market even the second and third floors have shops inside them. Remember if you want to maximize your discount don't touch their merchandise unless you asked permission, otherwise the uncle/auntie would be annoyed and would not give you any discounts.

You can also alight at Cheung Sha Wan station to get to Apliu

Apliu Street - Flea Market

So here's a quick look of the what Apliu Flea Market looks like, just don't spend too much money here there are still a few more shopping havens you can see. This was just Day 1 of our Hongkong Tour.

Apliu Flea Market - Hongkong, China

We went back to Silka Far East Hotel at Tsuen Wan , just in time for our Hotel Check-in to have our bags personally escorted to our room. After which, we went out again to grab some satisfying lunch and have our USD's exchanged to HKD's. Tsuen Wan is an ideal location, since it's quite close to the airport and most the places to explore are already on the Red Line MTR or the interchange is also there.

We ate at (I am not really sure) if this is a Chinese or Cantonese restaurant, I couldn't ask anyone since none or most of them doesn't understand English. We had to transfer to a different restaurant where the menu has photos and readable (not Chinese character) description, it was still a great choice the Shrimp wanton noodles was amazing and the noodles were hand pulled, pair it with their milk tea it really keeps you warm during the cold days. I was so satisfied that I order another set of Shrimp Wanton Noodles and Milk Tea. I do no know the name of the place since everything is in Chinese but it's 24hrs and there's a big aquarium outside. These is quite near the Silka Far East. If anyone is familiar with these symbols please do not hesitate to comment, I really love this place.

Milk Tea

Shrimp Wanton Noodle

So we are off to explore new places since our tummies are full, please watch out for my next post

Day 1 : Lei Cheng UK Tomb Museum and Peak Trams : Madame Tussauds

Baler, Aurora

noreply@blogger.com (Send link) — Tue, 09 Sep 2014 11:40:00 +0000

Baler, Aurora, Philippines

Upon writing this article, let me just say that I've been to Baler, Aurora twice. First was around August 25,2014 and the second visit was just a weekend ago September 5, 2014 let's just say I really liked the place. Hahaha :)

It was around 3hrs drive from Tarlac Province, (coming from Manila I think it's about 5-6 hrs) there are actually two road networks you can opt to choose if you're going here via : Maria Aurora-Pantabangan Road and Baler-Bongabon Road. We chose the 1st route Maria Aurora - Patanbangan Road since the 2nd option was still undergoing renovation and road widening. The road is about 90% smooth there are fewer roads that haven't been paved yet, but not more than 500 meters, so if you're carrying a small car ( not 4x4 ) you're car can still survive this road. Other details on how to get to Baler is posted below.

On the Maria Aurora - Pantabangan Road you can see the breathtaking Pantabangan Dam and even pass by Nueva Viscaya on your way to Baler, Aurora. So savor the 3 hrs drive, enjoy the view and roll down your window to smell the fresh mountain air. It was a tricky drive, specially on the curves when nearing Maria Aurora, I could only manage to drive halfway through the road my boyfriend and I had to switch, he took my place on the driver seat (yes!he is indeed very, very good when it comes to driving that's one of the things I love about him I am not bragging but he's a defensive and offensive driver hahaha indeed if he wanted to pursue racing i'm sure he can nail it). <3

Pantabangan Dam, Maria Aurora - Pantabangan Road

We arrived around lunch time, we needed to find ourselves some delicious meal to satisfy our hunger. While driving around, we passed by Yolly's ihaw-ihaw it was not that hard to convince myself to eat here since the lobsters and crabs are displayed on a glass shelf outside, ohh man was I drooling. I ordered, boiled lobster for 250PHP ( prices vary depending on the size) which is really really really cheap for me, since here in Manila it's too expensive for me to eat a lobster. Not to worry, Yolly's ihaw-ihaw is near mercury drugs and Baler Municipal Hall this establishment can easily be located.

Lovessssterr at Yolly's Ihaw -ihaw.

After eating , we checked-in at Pacific Waves Inn, details are listed below along with other hotels/inn that I truly recommend. The place was actually nice, we stayed it the annex since the Main building was undergoing renovations. It was comfortable and the attendant was nice, she even lent a pot of hot water for our coffee during the morning. It was an AC room with Hot &Cold showers and comes in a really cheap price.

Then we went driving around for 2 days going to famous places in Baler. The handy dandy waze application and Google maps helped us in finding the places. Don't forget to share the photos on Google Photosphere so that other people will be able to see the beauty of the different places.

Without further ado, I give to you the majestic and wonderful places we've been in Baler, Aurora, Philippines.

P.S if you want to go to the tourist spots in Baler, Aurora you can do so by hiring a tricycle to take you around the place for the whole day which may cost around PHP1000-PHP1500 (22USD - 32USD).

1. Ampere Beach - the rocky beach of Dipaculao.

If you are a good swimmer you can try swimming here since the water near the shore is already quite deep. The octupus hunter I asked said that after only a few steps from the rocky shore, some areas are already 6-10 feet.

Ampere Beach

Ampere beach - the rocky beach

Octopus Hunter at Ampere Beach

My handy 2 years old pair of slippers, given to me by one of my
besties from Australia. Thanks Ryanna and Michi!

2. Balete or The Millennium Tree

This is a 600 years old Balete (Banyan ) tree that was designated as the Millennium Tree of the Philippines. This is also the largest tree of that kind in Asia, it would take 60 men, holding each others at arms length.

Just hangin' at the largest Balete Tree in Asia :)

panoramic photo of the 60mtr Balete Tree

3. Caunayan Falls

The Caunayan falls located in Barangay l. Pimentel. Caunayan is much easier to trek. It is also pleasant venue for picnic and outings. The water here is ice cold and really refreshing, it would be a bit challenging to get into the water at first.

Fresh water running the rocky bottom of Caunayan Trail

Make shift bamboo bridge at Caunayan Falls

Caunayan Falls at L.Pimentel

Caunayan Falls, L.Pimentel

4. Diguisit Beach

Diguisit Beach is located on Baler Bay near Cemento Beach. Main attraction for this beach is the rock formation found alongside the sea shore. This is the product of thousands of years the waves have pounded the rocks. This is also a white sand beach and the 30 meter rock formation is also a must see for those whose into rock climbing.

Diguisit Beach and rock formation

For Rent Cottages along the shore of Diguisit's White sand Beach

Brittle Star found along the shores of Diguisit Beach during low tide

5. Ermita Hill

This area is famous for its breath taking view, atop the hill you could see on the left side Sabang Beach, on the right side are the Baler Fish Port , Diguisit beach and its rock formations. You could also see the majestic Pacific Ocean in all its glory.

Panoramic of Ermita Hill

Ermita Hill, Aurora

The view on the view deck at Ermita Hill

6. Museo de Baler, Baler Fish Port and Baler Public Market

A must have when you're at Baler are seafoods. It's very cheap and fresh, most of the seafoods are caught during the early mornings.

Museo de Baler is near the capitol, it houses artifacts during Manuel L. Quezon's reign and also during the Spaniards colonization.

Baler Fish Port

Baler Public Market

Museo de Baler

How to get to Baler Aurora :

1. Genesis Transport Buses with terminals in Manila and Cubao offer daily morning trips to Baler. Travel time is approximately 4-6 hours.

Contact Number : (02) 709 - 0803 / (02) 421 - 1425

Address : G/F Genesis Transport Building

704 EDSA Corner New York St., Cubao, Quezon City, Philippines 1109

2. Provincial Buses and Vans-for-rent stationed at the Cabanatuan Central Terminal offer daily trips to Dingalan, Baler and Dilasag. Travel time is 2 hours, 4 hours and 8 hours respectively.

3. For Private vehicle

Aurora Province can be reached via two road networks-Maria Aurora-Pantabangan Road and Baler-Bongabon Road.

Where to Stay :

Note : These are a list of places that I highly recommend, most I have stayed for a night and the rest I have been & seen but was not able to stay.

1. Pacific Waves Inn

Purok2, Brgy. Sabang Baler Aurora

Website : http://www.pacificwavesbaler.com

FB page : https://www.facebook.com/pacificwaves.baler/info

Email : pacificwaves.baler@gmail.com

Contact : (+63) 917 - 8950276 (Main)/ (+63) 928 - 8011888 (Annex)

2. ALIYA SURF CAMP RESORT

Brgy. Sabang, Baler, Aurora

Website: http://www.aliyasurfcamp.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Aliya-Surf-Camp-Baler/271884536173802

My Blog about Aliya: http://www.adventurousfeet.com/2012/01/part1-baler-aurora-day-1-baler.html

Mobile: (+63)939-939-0929 / (+63)939-939-0844

Email Address: info@aliyasurfcamp.com

3. BAHIA DE BALER

Brgy. Sabang, Baler, Aurora

Website: http://www.alfrescovco.com/

Email Address: reservations@bahiadebaler.com

Mobile: (+63) 908-982-7064 / (+63) 908-732-0672

4. BAYLER VIEW HOTEL

Brgy. Sabang, Baler, Aurora

Website: http://www.baylerviewhotel.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bayler.view

Email Address: baylerviewhotel@yahoo.com

Mobile: (+63) 919-286-3105 / (+63) 927-363-8735

5. COSTA PACIFICA RESORT

Brgy. Sabang, Baler, Aurora

Website: http://costapacificabaler.com/

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/costapacificabaler

Email Address: inquiry@costapacificabaler.com

Mobile: (+63) 917-853-6040

Landline (Manila Office) +632 576 4555

Alaminos, Pangasinan

noreply@blogger.com (Send link) — Thu, 10 Oct 2013 13:41:00 +0000

Hundred Island, Alaminos City, Pangasinan

It was holiday in the Philippines and my feet was itching to go somewhere, we have had the plan to do a long drive just about anywhere a car can reach hahaha; thanks Pnoy for this unplanned calendar holiday. Woke up extra early on a Friday to prepare our stuff and by 5am left the house to gas up. By 6am we were heading to NLEX, hihihi felt super happy that we were on the road; finally it’s been a while since I had a long drive. Anyway, couldn’t drive on the express way since my license was expired and the bf was too lenient on obeying the law. I'm getting used to this passenger thing set-up, though I like it better behind the wheel. I often push him to do occasional over take and over speeding cause it’s fun :D. (hope my mom's not reading this she'll kill me if she knew I always ask to go over 160kph)

North Luzon Express Way

It has been ages since I visited Pangasinan and have a faint remembrance of Hundred Islands, so we decided to put our wanderlust selves here. Our 3 days long drive itineraries were Pampanga – Tarlac – Alaminos – Bolinao. Stopping at different towns as we go really no plans just following our hearts on this 3 days’ vacation.

We were in Gerona, Tarlac by 9am and took a quick breakfast at Isdaan. From there it’s about 2 and half hours’ drive to Alaminos, Pangasinan. We arrived at his Grandparents (Milagros Inn) lodge before lunch. Milagros Inn is a 2 minutes’ walk from Lucap Wharf the port for Hundred Island tour. It’s a 3 storey building with rooms for 2 up to a group of 8. Price range is about 350PHP (backpacker) to 1000PHP (standard double and AC room) all equipped with hot showers. I do recommend this place since it’s near Lucap Wharf and Maxine seafood restaurant. Specially, this place has an endless view of Alaminos Hundred Island.

100 Island Marker before entering the town of Alaminos

Hundred Islands

Maxine Restaurant and Lodge

After lunch, we decided to rent a private boat for 1400PHP (USD$32) so we can view and stop longer on the islands. Anyway, this trip was after a huge typhoon here in the Philippines so we were really wishing for a sunny weather. We had at least 4hrs to go about the islands, there are a total of 127 islands but more or less 20 islands have shores the rest are rocks and trees so you couldn’t go down you’ll just pass by.

Part of the islets and island at Hundred Island

Sun kissed skin at Alaminos

These groups of islets and islands can be seen at the northeastern part of Alaminos City, Pangasinan. Of the 127 islands, only 3 are developed and have some facilities for tourist- Children’s island, Governor’s island and Quezon Island.

First stop is the Governor’s Island; it is where Pinoy Big Brother was shot. We didn’t have the time to explore the whole island since we were scramming to get to another island before it starts to rain. There is a viewing deck on this island where you can view the whole island and islet of Alaminos.

Governor's Island

Yey! vacay :)

Cave at Governor's Island

Our tour guide, daughter of our bankero

At the view deck in Governor's Island --backdrop Hundred Island

Passed by Marcos Island, on this island you can jump through a big whole and ending up in an indoor swimming pool. Didn’t have the strength to do a jump in since the wave was to strong and the tide was high due to the previous typhoon. They call the indoor pool as Imelda’s Cave.

Our little tour guide - enjoying the sea breeze

Islet - Hundred Island

Marcos Island

Imelda's Cave

We went to the snorkeling area before heading to Quezon Island, did a few snap shots under water but the water current was too strong for us. The water is also shady and gray due to the typhoon on the previous day.

Catched a few Lapu-lapu

Coral Reef

Second to the last stop was at Quezon Island, they have picnic facilities, kayaks and food stores. There is a giant clam breeding area here near the boat port. They are as big as my arms -- wide spread.

Quezon Island

Photo op near the Giant Clam breeding area

Quezon Island - Shore

Manual Quezon statue

Man made bridge leading to the other part of Quezon Island

Our 2 lovely tour guide

wanted to take the plunge but couldn't -- too strong waves

Giant Clam breeding area

Last stop was Cuenco Island, it is small cave that you can pass through to go the other side. It’s a bit rocky and there a few bats on the ceiling.

Cuenco Island

Cuenco Island -- tunnel

Children's Island

Bohol, Philippines

noreply@blogger.com (Send link) — Mon, 12 Aug 2013 10:33:00 +0000

Booked the plane tickets to Bohol 6 month before I took this trip. I usually do this, booked first then plan later since there are a lot of Piso or half fare scheme on domestic airlines here in the Philippines.

So, I actually didn't plan much since my sister has been here and she just gave the number of the tour guide that could arrange everything from airport pick-up, hotel accommodation and tour packages. In case you'd want to know you may contact Kuya Earl +63 2 918 517 36 18. He's very friendly and even take you to places not included in the package. For single traveler you will be mixed with 3-4 people, the vehicle he owns are Toyota L300 and Hyundai Starex. Maximum of people he usually takes per tour are 4-6 only so you'll have a lot of room in the vehicle.

When travelling solo, it's better to hire a van since most destination are kilometers away from the main city or if your staying by the beach (which is in Panglao). There are tricycles in the city but could only take you farthest would be Baclayon Church, the rest of the tourist spot is by the mountains.

Booked my ticket via Cebu Pac

Clear skies all the way to Tagbilaran, great way to start my journey to
Tagbilaran, Bohol.

Tagbilaran Airport

I stayed at Dimaluan Beach Resort, Kuya Earl booked the Standard Aircon Room for 1300PHP good for 2 pax, but I had the room for myself. Dimaluan Beach resort is 5 minutes walk away from the white sand beach of Panglao. The sand is even softer, whiter and more pure than that of Boracay. Dimaluan is beside Bohol beach club, don't worry you could swim on the beach side where Bohol Beach club is located. One thing I could never forget about Dimaluan is the food they served. It's cheap and yet the serving size of one meal is good for 2 persons. I am a foodie as you can see I have a food Blog, but I really really do recommend that you try their in-house cafe, the food they serve are superb! :)

For my 1st day tour the itinerary were Blood Compact Site, Tarsier and Butterfly Sanctuary and Loboc River and Museum.

The Sandugo or Blood Compact Site was a blood compact, performed in the island of Bohol in the Philippines, between the Spanish explorer Miguel López de Legazpi and Datu Sikatuna the chieftain of Bohol on March 16, 1565, to seal their friendship as part of the tribal tradition. This is considered as the first treaty of friendship between the Spaniards and Filipinos.

Blood Compact Site at Tagbilaran Bohol also known as Sandugo Shrine

The Tarsier and Butterfly Sanctuary is a small area, entrance fee is around 50php. Didn't have any photo on the butterfly sanctuary because my battery died. :( But good thing I was able to take some Tarsier pictures and even get to see and touch a live one. I hope they wouldn't get extinct. The size of a tarsier is as big a clenched fist. So they are very fragile and easily get stressed, some tarsier tend to commit suicide when stressed so please avoid flash photography.

Tarsier are noctornal animals

hi there :) i hope you won't get extinct

Big sleepy eyes

Had late lunch on the Loboc River Cruise. This is an experience you shouldn't miss, buffet lunch with matching live folk band serenading you will your feasting on the delicious Bohol cuisine. The river cruise is about 1hr from Loay Bridge to Busay falls and back again with a few stop over.

Loboc River Cruise

boat waiting at the dock

One of the 2 floating stage where stop over are done.

Loboc River

Foreigners trying out our folk dance called TINIKLING

Boholano's serenading us with beautiful music using their Ukalele.

During the time I was at Bohol sadly Loboc Museum is under restoration. :( But for more info you can visit Loboc Museum website.

Loboc Museum from the other side of the River

On my second day, we visited Bohol's famous Chocolate Hills, Baclayon Church and Man-made Mahogany Forest.

As a child, I thought that chocolate hills are really made of chocolates hehe. There are about 1200 to 1700 mini hills. They look liked chocolate when it's dry or summer season here. But on rainy and fair weathered days it looks like this small green hills.

panoramic shot of Chocolate Hills

One of the few chocolate hills

You will pass through the Man-made mahogany forest on your way to Chocolate hills. The Mahogany Forest was part of the nationwide reforestation program that was launched in the 1960s during the reign of Diosdado Macapagal.

A part of the 2km stretch of the Man - made
Mahogany Forest

Colossal Mahogany trees that rise up exquisitely from both sides

Last stop was Baclayon Church, sadly again it was on restoration mode when I visited Bohol. Baclayon church is considered one of the oldest churches in the Philippines which was built by the Jesuits during the 19th century era.

Baclayon Church - one of the bell towers

the priest on stone walls

This is located at the back side of the church near the convent and museum. The pillars like the Boholano says depicts an image of a priest wearing a Jesuit clerical clothing.

Baclyon Church

Starfish Island, Palawan - Philippines

noreply@blogger.com (Send link) — Sat, 08 Jun 2013 08:19:00 +0000

Another leg of our vacation/birthday celebration I planned a Honda Bay Tour, since my goal is to finish all the 13 island. For my second visit, we went to Starfish Island and Pandan Island. Since our trip was cut short due to change of schedule we had only 2 island stops. But still, we enjoyed the 2 island.....a lot! *big grin*

By this time, from light brown color I think my skin turned super tan. Since we were always out when we were staying in Dos Palmas the previous day, but this is just the way I like my skin :D. Pinay na pinay pero singkit :P.

Starfish Island is near Pambato Reef, aroud 20-30min boat ride from the dock at Lourdes Pier. The island is a bit small, and there were a lot of mangroves on the middle of the island same as that of Luli island. According to our boat men, there are saltwater crocodile (but very small) on some of the mangroves there. Which stopped us from walking near the mangroves (very sad i wanted to see a live tamilok).

Starfish Island

Welcome to Starfish Island. With our handy photographer tripod and
wireless trigger. :)

From the name of the island you'd know what's abundant in the area. So there we were after taking some snapshot like were doing a pre-nup (but there's no plan so whatever your thinking its not it!), we decided to buckle up our life vest secure our goggles and head off to the sea to see some live starfishes. And damn we forgot to put sun block againnnnn :'(. We might turn charcoal this time. haha.

ohh this is my banner photo... hehehe. Using my iphone's panorama

His new found hobby -- Beach hopping
*finally i have someone who could be a beach bum like me*

The Sand Bar on Starfish Island during low tide.

Walking on the sand bar.

You put your arms around me and I'm home

Outrigger Canoe

Father and Daughter

The water is not as clear as that of the other island of Honda bay, but still visible enough. It was raining 2 days before we arrived in Palawan so the water is a bit unclear. The sea here is uneven and slanting. Some parts in the middle are shoulder deep, and the parts near the shore are deeper so be very careful.

Hopefully, on my birthday next year will go to El Nido then stay in Puerto Princesa for a day and hire a private boat so I can finish the remaining 8 islands in Honda Bay. As promised, he would accompany me on this adventure. I'm so excited....

So here are some photos of our stay in Starfish island I hope this will help you visualize.

He's happy because our swimming lessons have paid off.
3 more sessions to go :D and our next vacation no more life vest!

Lone Starfish

A group of starfish

Starfish

This is actually a different group

I love the sea....and my big thigh (hahaha)

Trying my yoga pose... still needs to practice yoga.

My Birthday at Dos Palmas, Palawan

noreply@blogger.com (Send link) — Wed, 05 Jun 2013 03:10:00 +0000

For my 24th birthday I chose Palawan of all places I could go to celebrate it. Accompanied by codename Vic we spent 3 days and 2 nights there. Dos Palmas Resort and Spa is a one hour boat ride from Puerto Princesa's Lourdes Port. Only 100 guests are allowed on the island.

Zest Air - was our airline when we went to Palawan

Dos Palmas

Dock Port Bridge at Dos Palmas

So we almost had the island for ourselves. No buzzing crowd and fleet of people walking around. It was a nice place to stay and to snorkel or even scuba dive.

the best birthday gift ever :)

It was a perfect choice to celebrate the wonderful 24 years of my life. Accompanied by someone who makes me smile and loves my little and annoying antics. Though I wanted my family to be there and celebrate with me the conditions won't permit. One of my deepest wish during my birthday was for my Dad and I hope it will be granted.

Enough of the melodrama, if you want to book you can go directly to Dos Palmas website. Or for Day Tour packages I would recommend to book one at Wild Rock Travel and Tour, I have tried them twice and their services are superb.

I suggest to visit Dos Palmas and Honda Bay if ever you're in Palawan. I love Palawan -- the food, the people, the place and nature.

Welcome Drinks upon arrival at the island

Snorkeling /Water activity dock

Nipa Huts - Sleep and rest while you're here

Dos Palmas Bay

Viewing Villa

Bridge walk to the dock

There are also other activities you could try at Dos Palmas such as Biking, Kayaking, Snorkeling, Swimming and Scuba Diving. They have recreational area such as Tennis Court, Basket Ball Court and Pool Table. Sadly, we didn't try kayaking since we were hooked up with swimming in the sea and snorkeling.

Kayaks free for use

Ohh no, I have no flippers :(

Love under the sea with codename vic :) <3

Many fishes --- love snorkeling here

Abundant Coral Reef

Giant Clam or Taklobo

Flippers --- i want one too :)

Abundant coral formation

Who said Nemo was hard to find?

Clown Fish

Hey there scuba mates

Around Dos Palmas. I really enjoyed just walking under the sun. I don't care if get too tan :P, just love the salty and fresh air coming from the sea. The sound of the waves as it hits the shore. And the calming feeling of the big blue sea. The vastness of the sea makes you feel so small, it's as if reminding you that your one tiny grain walking and living on earth.

Dinning Area for Buffet Lunch

Happy 24th Birthday to me. :)

Emote moment

I just can't contain my joy :D

Kulintang

lovely swing chair

Bridgewalk to the boat dock

just enjoying the view

Swimming Pool

Relax and enjoy Dos Palmas

Panorama of the swimming pool area

Contemplating ... lol

Spa

The pool near the Spa Center

Missed Opportunity

noreply@blogger.com (Send link) — Wed, 15 May 2013 03:27:00 +0000

I entered a contest for technoodling last February 28. The prize was an " Olloclip 3-in-1 lens " for iphone 5. Never in my wildest dream did I ever think that I will win, but luckily I did. See my name is the first in line. hahaha but I never knew I won till today May 15, 2013.

I always check my FB account but never the spam message, but this morning I don't know why but I had this urge to suddenly check my spam message folder. The assistant editor of technoodling messaged me that I should check this link http://technoodling.net/the-three-winners-of-our-olloclip-giveaway-are/comment-page-1/#comment-13038.

And upon seeing my name I suddenly felt really excited, but when I saw the date when the message was sent I became sad, the message was dated March 5. Almost 2 months had passed, but I still replied to the message and hopefully they still have my prize. If not I hope they will give me something else. hahahah wishful thinking that is..... *i hope they still have the olloclip"

Just an update as of May 24 I got my Olloclip from Digital walker eastwood.. I can't wait to use them. Thanks Technoodling :)

Pamabato Reef, Honda Bay - Palawan

noreply@blogger.com (Send link) — Mon, 13 May 2013 06:03:00 +0000

From Luli Island, we went to Pambato Reef for our last stop on our Honda Bay tour. They call it "the mini Tubbataha Reef" home to giant clams or taklabo in tagalog, different type of fishes and thousands of live corals. It was a joint project of Bantay Kalikasan an ABS-CBN foundation in partnership with Palawan Government.

The site is marked by a giant turtle or Pawikan as we call it here in the Philippines. It's very deep according to the boat man/dive guide the deepest part he know is about 30-40 feet. We snorkeled on the shallow part which is 10-15feet. from below you could see the abundant corals and fishes swimming.

Sadly, our underwater camera died due to low battery. We had so much fun swimming and taking photos on the other island. If ever you'll visit Palawan, a must site to see is Pambato Reef.

Heading to Pambato Reef

Pambato Reef is marked by a Giant Pawikan

Hello there :)

Docking port at Pambato Reef

Luli Island, Palawan - Philippines

noreply@blogger.com (Send link) — Wed, 01 May 2013 17:37:00 +0000

I guess from the island I've visited during our Honda Bay tour this would be my favorite spot. Though in this area, the sea gets deep faster than that of Cowrie Island. First of all, it was named Luli Island short for Lulubog-Lilitaw or it's sink-appear syndrome every time the sea goes to a low and high tide mode.

During the low-tide season the sand could be seen and also the Nipa hut they built on the island. But on high-tide season only the mangroves forest are visible. I know for those who have watched or read Life of Pi, it will remind you of the man eating island included in the story.

Anyway it's one of the best spot to feed the fishes, I mean there are literally school of fishes swimming under your legs or in between your legs which is really tickling. Be sure to bring 2 plastic bags of bread, 1 is not enough for this hungry bunch. And a must would be an underwater camera since the water is so clear your photos will surely turnout great! So here's another peek at our fun adventure on Luli Island :

Luli Island :)

Luli Island Shoreline

I like the way it floats :)

The Mangroves forest - the only thing visible during high tide season

Hey there little star fella - loving the white colored sand

Pat and elly enjoying the wind

Me - enjoying the wind too :*

Us enjoying the cage

School of fishes - yipee

Happy to dive and swim with the fishes - resting a bit

Elly and her starfish

we love Palawan!

Cowrie Island (Honda Bay), Palawan - Philippines

noreply@blogger.com (Send link) — Fri, 26 Apr 2013 23:00:00 +0000

For our first stop during the Honda Bay tour we went to Cowrie Island to rest, swim and take our lunch. The tour guide from Wild Rock Tours was kind enough to cook our lunch so we can go swim and catch starfish and a few clown fish. We might even find nemo here :).

Cowrie island is relaxing its as if you'd never want to leave the island. I love their Buko halo - halo and Banana Mango Shake. For those who can't swim the sea is calmer in this area and there is a net line to guide you.But I still urge you to put on your vest and go to the deeper part to see the magnificent coral reef formation and school fishes swimming under your legs, really tickling.

The island has white to light brown sand, there's not much rocks on the shore so you can walk around. but wear your aqua shoes when you swim because of sea urchins that may be under the sands. A few snap shots again for better visualization.

Outrigger canoe at the pier

Paparazzi shot from Seychelle

Cowrie Island

Hello Cowrie Island

ohhh the big blue sea - i love you

Sea - Sand - Sky - Sun - Coconut Tree yeah this is vacation!

Size 5

Clown Fishes (where's nemo?)

Trying to pose for the camera ei?!

Sey wanted to go down but forgot to take off her life jacket. haha

Some weird photography effect by our boatman - thanks kuya!

Now that's a strong arm Lance!

Ahem - who are these 5 gorgeous ladies??

Celebrating 14 years of friendship - I'll visit you in Sydney soon :)

Leaving Cowrie and heading to Luli Island

Say hello to Luli Island

Puerto Prinsesa Subterranean River National Park - Palawan

noreply@blogger.com (Send link) — Fri, 26 Apr 2013 22:30:00 +0000

Visiting Palawan wouldn't be complete without a visit to Puerto Prinsesa Subterranean River National Park previously known as St.Paul's Subterranean National Park. As of 2012 it belonged to the New Seven Wonders of the World ( therefore, I'm down to 6 more that I need to visit @_@).

You have to book early if you want to visit the cave since they only allow around 1500 person per day, to of course preserve the location. It's truly an enjoyable 1 hour tour, you get to see a lot of formation when your inside. A reminder to all who wants to visit the underground river "Do not open your mouth if you're looking towards the ceiling of the cave". There are a lot of bats inside the cave, they may drop a bomb that could land inside your open mouth.

Here's a sneak peak on how beautiful the place is, sorry for some blurry shot.

On our way to the underground river, the sea's a bit of fighter!

Saw the other boat where Elly's mom and dad were in.

"Yey! We Made it" - Me and Seychelle

Underground River Welcome Sign

A word of caution to everyone - Please follow and help preserve Palawan

Monitor Lizard at the wood trail leading to the Underground River

A lot of Monitor Lizard - freely roaming around the park

Green River leading to the entrance of the Cave (very deep)

Love how the branches fall

3 monkeys - (me, patricia and elly)

All aboard!!!

Entrance to the Underground River - ( a journey to the center of the earth?!)

Take 2! without the helmet :)

vandalism?? near the entrance of the cave.

Well hello there fellow cave explorer we see your light :)

The shells on the cave walls (and ceiling) indicates the whole cave
were submerged in the sea some thousand of centuries ago.

Crocodile formation

La Sagrada Familia or The Sacred Holy Family

Puerto Prinsesa, Palawan - Philippines

noreply@blogger.com (Send link) — Fri, 26 Apr 2013 22:00:00 +0000

I guess this would be one of the best places to visit here in the Philippines. Palawan, unlike Boracay is less crowded, there's not a lot of people who stops you when you're walking to offer you stuff. You could walk around tourist spot quietly and enjoy the scenery. But a friendly reminder from the Palaweños, "To Take Only Pictures and Leave Only Footprints".

Together with my balikbayan Aussie bestfriend and her family we explored Palawan for 3 days and left with a heart full of joy, a memory of the beautiful place and tons of photos. So here are few snapshots, sorry if there are goofy shots hehe we can't help but kid around.

Aerial view of Palawan

Puerto Prinsesa Airport

Because I love CRABSSSS!

Elly munching on the shrimp

Stage at the Plaza

Lance and Patricia's jump shot - a trip would never be complete without a jump shot!

Karst Mountain - Elephant Cave

It's called Elephant Cave because the entrance is like an Elephant's tusk.

Feeling like a tourist ! :)

Strong waves hitting the shore at the pier in Lourdes, Palawan

Best Dining Place at Puerto Princesa :

Kalui
Ugong Rock
Kinabuch

Boracay Island, Philippines

noreply@blogger.com (Send link) — Mon, 15 Apr 2013 06:01:00 +0000

Boracay Island, Philippines

Finally, visited one of the most famous beach in the world the "Island of Boracay". It was when my best friend (elly) who is now living in Australia went for a vacation here in the Philippines. We bonded, talked a lot, catch-up on the last 4 years that we haven't seen each other and explored Boracay. So here are some sample photos that reflects how much fun we had and the beauty of the white sand beach that Boracay is famous for.

During our island hopping trip we stopped at Puka Beach. Where it is famous for Puka Shells.

It's a beautiful island, but please do not buy buko juice here its a bit expensive (it costs about 100PHP or USD $2.40).

Outrigger Canoe

Puka Beach, Boracay

I'm so happy to be with the sea :)

Coconut tree at Puka Beach

Island hopping boats resting at the shore

Me and Elly's Family.

Puka Shells at Puka Beach

We also did fish feeding and snorkel a bit but the wave was to strong so we decided leave and try Parasailing. It was all our first time so we were a bit jumpy and excited. It was really fun specially riding on a speed boat to get to the para sail boat. The tour guide was kind enough to let me maneuver the speed boat a bit, i felt like i owned the sea. hehehe.

All excited for parasailing.

The Reyes boys enjoying the fishes swimming under their feet.

We have been friends since we were 8 years old.

On the speed boat. Happy and excited :D

Me -- "driving like a boss" hehehe

Parasailing

Happy :D.

Love on top <3.

But since it's our first official trip together, so we had a bit of r&r time. We rode the ATV for about an hour and it was really fun, though its not allowed to speed up but we were a bit naughty and raced our way on top of Mt. Luho. :P

He wanted to take a picture of the sunset, so we opted to try Paraw Sailing. It was fun, relaxing and romantic at the same time.

We enjoyed parasailing.... sweet <3

Sunset at Boracay

Pink Sky

And to conclude our stay, we watched men and women perform fire dancing.

Boracay at night

Fire dancers doing their thing

How to Pronounce Luxury Brands

noreply@blogger.com (Send link) — Wed, 23 May 2012 05:24:00 +0000

Hi Visitor,
Sharing to you a post from one of the blogs I owned [www.glibtongue.blogspot.com]

LUXURY BAG & CLOTHES

In order to help my readers to not make the same mistake as I did, I compiled a list of expensive & luxury brands that we all love and dream of having someday, oneday…

Hope this could help you as much as it did to me. Enjoy :)

Abaete : Ah-bye-ah-tay

Agnes B. : Ahn-NYAS Buh

Ale et Ange : ah-LAY ay ahnj

Alejandro Ingelmo : Allay-handro In-gel-mo

Alessandro Dell’Acqua : Ala-SAND-roe del-LA-kwa

Andrew Gn : Andrew Jen

Andy Thê-Anh : An-dee Tay-Ann

Ann Demeulemeester : ann DEH-moo-lah-MEE-stera

Anna Sui : Anna Swee

Anteprima : On-tay-pre-ma

Anya Hindmarch : Ahn-ya Heind-march

Arthur Mendonça : Ar-thur Men-doe-sa

Atelier : ah-tell-ee-ay

Azzedine Alaia : Aza-deen A-LYE-a

Badgley Mischka : Badge-lee Meesh-ka

Balenciaga : Bah-LEN-see-aga

Bally : BAH-li

Balmain : Bahl-mahhhhn

Baume & Mercier : Bom ee Mer-SEE-yay

Bebe : Bee-bee

Behnaz Sarafpour : Beh-naz Sa-RAH-furr

Boglioli : BOH-lee-OH-lee

Bottega Veneta : BO-te-ga Ve-NE-tah

Boucheron : Boo-ke-ron

Braun Buffel: Brohn Byu-furl

Bruno Magli : BROO-no MAL-yi

Bulgari : Ball-gah-ree

Burberry : BURR-behr-ri

Burberry Prorsum : BUR-bur-ree proar-SOME

Bvlgari : Bull-gah-ree

Byblos : BEEB-los

Carolina Herrera : Caro-leena Hair-era

Cartier : KAR-ti-yay

Celine : s seh-lyn

Cerruti : Cher-RU-tee

Cesare Paciotti : Che-sah-ray Pah-cho-tee

Chacharel : KA-sha-rel

Chaiken : Chay-ken

Chanel : Sha-NEL

Chantal Thomas : SHAN-tal To-MAH

Charles Jourdan : Sharls Zhor-DHUN

Charriol : SHA-ri-yol

Chloe : KLOH-eh

Chopard : Sho PAR

Christian Lacroix : Christian LAH-kwa

Christian Louboutin : Loo-boo-tin

Claude Montana : Kload Mohn-TA-na

Coccinelle : KOH-chee-nel-li

Comme des Garcons Kom deh GHAR-sohng

Costume National KOHS-tyum NAH-sho-nal

Courreges : Koo-REZH

Cynthia Rowley : Cynthia RAO-li

Dior : dee-or

Dior Homme : dee-OAR OM

Dolce & Gabbana : DOLE-chay and gab-BON-a

Donna Karan Donna Kah-ren

Dries Van Noten : Dress Vahn NOH-tehn

Dries Van Noten : DREEZE van KNOW-ten

DSquared2 : DEE squared

Elie Saab : EH-li Zahb

Emanuel Ungaro : Ee-MAN-noo-el OON-Gah-ro

Emilio Pucci : ee-mee-lee-oh pu-chee

Emporio Armani : Em-POHR-yo AR-mah-ni

Ermenigildo Zegna Ehr-MAN-ni-jil-do ZEY-na

Erotokritos : arrow-toe-kri-tose

Etienne Aigner Eight-YEN AHG-neigh

Etro : EHT-tro

Faconnable : FAH-so-nahb

Gareth Pugh : Gareth Pew

Georg Jensen : Yorg YEN-sen

Giambattista Valli : Gee-am-bah-tease-ta Valley

Gianfranco Ferre : ZHAN-franck-o Feh-REH

Gianni Versace : Jee-YAN-nee Ver-SA-chee

Giles Deacon : Jy-els Dee-kin

Givenchy : Zshee-VON-she3

Gucci : GOO-chi

Guy Laroche : Gee Lah-Rosh

Hedi Slimane : EH-di Sli-MAHN

Helmut Lang : HEL-moot Lung

Hermès : AIR-mehz

Hervé Léger : Air-vay Lay-jay

Hussein Chalayan : Hoo-sane Sha-lion

Issey Miyake : EES-say Mi-YA-kay

Jacques Fath : Zhack Faht

Jaeger-Lecoultre : Yay-ger Leh-KOOT

James Perse : pronounced like “purse”

Jean Louis Scherrer : Zhan LOO-ee She-REHR

Jean Paul Gaultier : Zhon Paul GOL-tee-yay

Jean-Charles de Castlebajac : Zhan-Sharls de KA-sel-ba-zhak

Joeffer Caoc : Joe-fur Kay-ock

John Varvatos : John var-VAY-toes

Junya Watanabe : JUNE-ya Wah-TAH-nah-bay

Kris Van Assche : Chris van-ASH

Lambertson Truex : lam-bert-son tru-ex

Lanvin : Lahn-VAWN

Les Copains : Leh KHO-pang

Loewe : Low-ev-ay

Longchamp : Long-shum

Longines : LOHN-jeens

Louis Ferraud : LOO-ee Fay-YOH

Louis Vuitton : loo-E vo-WE-ton

Madame Gres : mah-dam gray

Mainbocher : Men-bo-SHAY

Mainbocher : Maynbo-shay

Maison Kitsune : MAY-zohn kit-soo-NAY

Maison Martin Margiela : MAZE-on Mar-TIN mar-GEL-a

Manolo Blahnik : Ma-no-low Blah-nick

Marchesa : Mar-kay-sa

Marithé et François Girbaud : Mah-ri-TAY eh Frans-SUAH Jeer BOW

Martin Margiela : Marr-JEL-la

Martine Sitbon : Marh-TIN Si-BOHN

Miansai : my-ahn-SIGH

Miu Miu : Myu Myu

Moet et Chandon : Moe-ET A shan-don (soft N)

Monique Lhuillier Moe-neek Loo-lee-ay

Moschino Mos-KI-no

Narciso Rodriguez : Nar-SEE-so-Rod-RI-gehz

Nicolas Ghesquière : Ni-co-la Guess-ki-air

Olivier Theyskens : Oh-LI-vi-yay THIGH-skens

Piaget : Pya-jay

Piazza Sempione : Pi-YAT-za Sem-pi-YO-ni

Pierre Balmain : Pyerr BAHL-mahn

Pierre Cardin : Pyerr Kar-DOHN

Plain Sud : Plan Sood

POLECI : policy

Prabal Gurung : Prub-ble Ger-rung

Prada : prah-da

Proenza Schouler : Pro-EHN-za SHOO-ler

Raf Simons : rauph SEE-mon

Ralph Lauren : Ralph LO-ren

Rei Kawakubo: Ray Kah-wah-koo-bo

Rochas : RHO-shas

Rodarte : Row-dar-tay

Romero Gigli : Romeo JEE-li

Salvatore Ferragamo : Sal-va-TOH-reh Fehr a-GAH-mo

Sonia Rykiel : Sewn-ya Ree-key-el

Sophia Kokosalaki : So-fee-a Ko-ko-sah-lah-kee

Thakoon : Tuh-koon

Thierry Mugler : Tee-air-ree Moog-lay

Thomas Maier : TOH-mas MAH-yer

Tibi : tbi (not Tee-bee)

Tiiu Kiuk : tee-you Quick

Tocca : toe-ka

Ungaro : oon-ga-ro

Veronique Branquinho : Ve-ro-NEEK BRANG-kee-no

Versace : ver-SAH-chay

Vionnet : Vee-oh-nay

Xuly Bët : ZUH-li Bet

Yigal Azrouel : Yee-goll Az-roo-el

Yohji Yamamoto : YO-jee ya-MA-moto

YSL Rive Gauche : YSL Reev Gosh

Yves Saint Laurent : Eev Sahn Lor-UHN

Zac Posen : poe-zen