My Travel Escapades

Shorten your Google ID + Profile | How to Shorten your Google ID Profile

2011-08-22T00:43:00.002-07:00

I have been browsing the internet to further maximize and promote my websites. Apparently, most of them has been giving me just headaches and waste my time understanding how it should be done. So to further enhance my knowledge and just be sure that I’m doing the right thing with the right and effective way, I did some research on Google itself.

I checked on the webmaster tools and I have learned a lot from them. I had already done most of the optimization tips stated and I’m planning to try the rest of them. One of the best tips I got from it is Google’s newly launched Google +1. You can install Google +1 in any way you want, just be sure you had a Google ID to use it of course. The very essence of this tool is to promote your blog or page or blog posts in this famous search engine. It is like when one of your reader clicks on +1 it is like giving you a point 1 on recommending your site or blog post as relevant and he thereby informing the search engines like Google to check it and index your page.

Well, I’m still on the process of analyzing and learning it thoroughly. I’m hoping I could finish my study before the end of this week. By the way, just a friendly tip, in case you are using Google +1 you can shorten your Google ID + profile so that your url is short and easy to remember.

Change is Constant

2011-08-14T03:51:00.002-07:00

Have you noticed? I change my header and description line.

Yup, I opted to have a more personal touch on my header’s blog that’s why I change it to a simpler but straight to the point talk. Well, I hope some of my loyal readers will not be confused about it and hopefully many lurkers and visitors around the web will get amused with my header. :)

Though I change it, this blog will always be the one that you have learned to love. In short, I will still be your tour guide around the world! Anyways, I sure hope to see you more frequently in this blog for I promise to update it regularly. :)

Apartments and Houses for Rent in Calgary

2011-08-12T02:26:00.001-07:00

Do you know someone who is looking for houses for rent in Calgary? Well, you have come to the right place for I just discovered a great site that can help you find a home online.

Rent Calgary is the online spot I’m telling you. They offer a list of apartments and houses for rent in the beautiful place of Calgary. To know more about it, you can browse on thru their site now, click on the area of Calgary you want to move, view pictures, descriptions and the prices of the houses, apartment s and town homes available.

I’m currently searching for one right now, for my client wanted to move to Calgary very soon. He wanted a spot in South East Calgary where most of his friends and families are residing. He wanted me to look for the most spacious house that charges a very affordable rental fee. Anyways, I better finish my research with the hour so I can email the data to my client. After that, I would have the whole night worry free of any tasks. Ciao!

Cheap Medical Insurance Online

2011-08-10T02:49:00.001-07:00

Are you looking for cheap medical insurance that you can afford to pay for the longest time? Well, better end your search now for HCI Medical is here to help.

HCI Medical offers the most affordable and most comprehensive medical insurance in the World Wide Web. As we all know, having a medical insurance of your own is the wisest step to make especially now that many people all around gets sick. It is also necessary that besides taking in consideration the insurance package it is also a must that you should get the most affordable ones. This is to make sure that you can pay it on time and in the longest time. Especially now that our country is again experiencing recession which means money is very hard, one should make sure that the cost of his or her insurance wouldn’t be a burden to their financial stability.

Medical insurance is very vital to every person especially when the time of hospitalization arises. Isn’t it better that when you get hospitalized, the medical bills will not be solely your responsibility, right? That will give you more funds and less stress. So if you’re not medically insured, you better contact HCI Medical and ask for medical insurance quotes and packages.

An AllState Insurance Policy

2011-08-01T19:33:00.001-07:00

I am up early this morning for I wanted to finalize my search about funeral insurance. You see a friend of mine is planning to buy an insurance package but he’s not really sure if he’ll buy a funeral or a life insurance. That’s why to end his burden; I giddily told him that I will help him in deciding.

So, I browsed the internet requesting for life insurance quotes and funeral as well. I opted to do that so that my friend and I can have options on what suits his budget. I also made sure to that the insurance policy includes an AllState package so that I can assure my friend that the insurance quotes we got are applicable to our area.

I already gathered lots of data from the internet and in a little while I will email them to my friend so that he could check them out. Anyways, I really have to go now and finish this task for I still have a lot to do offline.

Affordable Car Insurance from Carinsurancerates.me

2011-07-30T07:42:00.001-07:00

My husband and I decided to look for new car insurance companies that will us the perfect package that we need for our car. So I browse on thru the internet hoping that I will find the best. After reading reviews, testimonies and offers I finally got interested with Carinsurancerates.me.

Carinsurancerates.me is an online insurance company offers motor vehicle liability insurance at competitive rates. I tried using their instant quote form on their website and I was amazed on how affordable their insurance rates are as compared to other car insurance company online. Not only that, they don’t only focus on one insurance package but they offer variety of insurances packages as based on their client’s need. Anyways, if you want to know more about the company, just browse in thru their website.

Honestly, I never thought that I could ever find as cheap as the insurance quote they gave me. I can’t wait to tell my husband about it.

Budget Allotment for Car Maintenence

2011-07-19T18:41:00.002-07:00

Looks like our car is not in good shape right now, after a month of being stuck in the garage my husband pull it out yesterday for some warming up when he suddenly heard a gruesome sounds on the engine compartment. He tried to check it out but he couldn’t find what’s really wrong with the car. So for us to stop guessing, we sent the car to a car mechanic.

True enough we were right, the car needed some tune up and its radiator and water pump needs to be replaced. Urgh! Oh my! This means our monthly household budget will be decreased for the car’s repair. Urgh! This is really painful for a budgeter like me. Now, I have to adjust everything for us to purchase the auto parts needed for the repair. And with the looks of it, we might not have any savings this month. Urgh! We really have to work double time now for us to cover the car maintenance every month. I thought keeping the car out of the road would save us more money. But with the looks of it – We were wrong!

Great Moving Services from MeatHead Movers

2011-07-19T18:10:00.005-07:00

Success is not merely measured by the spark of luck. It always includes determination and hard work which many successful businessmen possess to achieve where they are today. This I have realized when I read the history of the Meathead Movers.

Aaron and Evan Steed are the heads of this successful moving company, they are the two local boys who have “done good” while studying and doing sports. Meathead Movers started off last 1997 by two high school students that are determined to earn money thru their hard labor and determination. With a little experience, budget constraint and boosting confidence they started building their company thru walking or jogging. Yup! You heard it right, because they don’t own a driver license yet they tried begging for rides from friends for their very first moving job. I was really amazed on how they work their way to the top.

Maybe you’re wondering on how I came thru their story? Well, I needed some help on moving my furniture here in San Diego and apparently when I search the web for some San Diego Movers, their website pop out and saw their different moving services, delivery and storage services here in San Diego. With their constant positive reviews and great company history I truly believed that they are the moving service I need. True enough, what they stated on their website was true. I was really happy with their services and I would really recommend them to my friends. And also I would love to hire them again if ever we move out again.

Anyways, if you need some moving services you can try checking their Facebook page for more information and maybe read some client’s testimonials as well.

Enjoying Dubai

2011-07-19T08:03:00.001-07:00

My friend Nikko is currently working in Dubai as an assistant manager at one of the most prestigious hotels in the country. He decided to work in Dubai for a friend of his has advise him to go and see him there and he promised him that he will give him a great job with a great compensation package.

It was actually a blessing in disguise for he just resigned from his old job and he needs a new one desperately. Well, that was a few months ago and now he’s enjoying his job as an assistant manager and enjoying his life in Abu Dhabi. Maybe you’re wondering on how I got the information about his life in Dubai. Well, he just called me a while ago and because it was one of those lovely Dubai holidays he has no work and went out for some sightseeing the whole day.

Take a look at this photo.

The man wearing the red shirt is my friend Nikko. The tall building in the background is one of the most famous and one of the most beautiful tourist attractions in Dubai. So beautiful isn’t? The building is so tall that I have never seen something so tall and amazing.

It’s really obvious that he’s enjoying his stay in Dubai, not only because he’s enjoying his work but also because of the beautiful scenery in the country.

Remembering the Past thru Zugo Deviant Art

2011-07-16T07:51:00.000-07:00

I think not everybody knows that I’m a lover of art.

Yup! You heard it right, I know it’s not really obvious that I’m an artist but I believe that I am a good (striving) artist at heart. I still remember when I was in high school where I usually join some art festivities in school. I was an active member of the art club then and I usually have some art works displayed on exhibits. Most of my masterpieces are sketches of people specifically their faces. I just love draw the beautiful outline of a person’s face thru my charcoal pencils. Fortunately, I did received lots of beautiful comments from my schoolmates and it made me realize that I got the talent.

If I’m not mistaken, it runs in our genes. My brothers are also very good in sketching and I believe that they draw better than I do. One of my fondest memories I had with my siblings was our drawing sessions after school. Oh! Those were the days when nothing seems to matter but us being together.

Sad to say, now that we have grown up and had our own family, we rarely see each other. And because of that our bonding moment as siblings has somewhat diminished because of our busy schedules. That’s why every time I see great masterpieces like the deviant art that Zugo does makes me remember my childhood days. Somehow his works brings me down to memory lane. Oh well, that’s life! I can’t do anything but to accept the fact that people and situations do change constantly.

Food Trip Friday#119 | Rice Cake with White Cheese and Salted Egg

2011-07-14T01:30:00.001-07:00

I miss this…

Bibingka with Keso Puti and Itlog na Pula
Rice Cake with White Cheese and Salted Egg

Yum!!!

If I remember right, the last time I had a taste of this delicious Filipino delicacy was last Christmas! Urgh! I really miss the yummy sweet and salty taste of this bibingka.

Feeling Cold in South Korea

2011-07-14T00:53:00.006-07:00

Hi guys! How is your week so far? Well, as for me it’s not really fine. :(

I had some problems off and online which I do hope will be resolved very soon. :( Anyways, so much for my personal rants, I need to share to you some photos of my brother in law Melvin who is currently in Korea.

These are his old photos there during the winter season; it was only now that he was able to send it to us thru his email. I keep on sighing every time I see the snow in his photos. I love snow! But I don’t really love the cold in South Korea. Urgh! As my brother in law said, the cold is painful and sometimes insane.

Even though I love snow, I really don’t want to feel the insanity of it in South Korea. Lol! Oh well, I sure hope my BIL will come home this December to celebrate Christmas with us and hopefully gives me a Zara item.lol! :)

Wedding Invitations and Cheap Bridesmaid Dresses

2011-07-13T21:24:00.004-07:00

My friend Jane went to our house yesterday and gave us two wedding invitations for her upcoming wedding. She gave us two invitations for me and for my mom who she plans to invite as one of her godparents. The wedding invitation she gave us was really cute and if I was to married after her I would definitely copy the style of her invites.lol! But of course, that is remotely possible to happen because I am already married since 2005. Lol!

After a few hours of chitchat, Jane asked me if I know where to buy cheap bridesmaid dresses for her bridesmaid. You see, she plans to cover all the wedding expenses as well as the bridesmaid gowns but she’s looking for the most affordable items of course. Or else their wedding budget wasted to nothing. Anyways, I’m really happy that my friend is really settling down and has finally decided to be with his love forever.

Paradise on Earth : Boracay Garden Resort

2011-07-13T01:07:00.000-07:00

There has been so much written about the beauty of Boracay, but the fact is, no words can do it justice. Let’s just put it this way—I have never turned down an invite to go to the island and I have no intention to start anytime soon. When I got invited to try out one of the newest resorts of the Boracay Regency Group—known for their Boracay Regency Resort—I packed my bags as soon as I put the phone down.

On the day itself I woke up at 4am and made my way to the Domestic airport to catch my 6am flight with Seair. Personally, I believe that Seair is undoubtedly the best airline to take when going to Boracay. They provide the fastest flights to Caticlan, and spare you the tedious two-hour drive from the alternative Kalibo airport. Many people have a fear of small planes, but I personally love them and with Seair, the flights are usually fast, on time, and comfortable.

At 6:50 a.m., I had landed on the island and was a mere 20 minutes away from the beach. At the airport, I was met by a Regency representative and was whisked away on a private, air-conditioned van to the port, where I was then transferred to the resort’s exclusive fast-craft. All fees were included in the transfer and the representatives took care of all my bags and worries. After a fifteen-minute ride along the Boracay highway, I arrived in the Boracay Garden Resort, the newest member of the Boracay Regency Group.

The latest acquisition of the Boracay Regency Group used to be Hotel Seraph, a Korean-owned resort that catered to families and couples. Strategically located in the middle of Station Two, the two-hectare resort is able to provide guests easy access to all the hot bars, restaurants, and stores that Station Two is known for, while its sprawling architecture affords guests the peace and quiet for when they want to relax. I found the hotel to be kitschy-cute, its design an endearing take on Mediterranean style. Greek god statues mingle with dolphin and angel fountains scattered all over the resort’s massive pools; massive columns give way to candy-colored slides and playgrounds. Although the hotel decor may be due for some sprucing up, it is still deemed a luxury hotel, as it is classed under the triple A category.

I was billeted in one of the hotel’s Premiere Rooms (P5,600+ and P6,800+ with pool access). The room was spacious enough for a family and although the wallpaper and some of the fixtures were a little dated, it was still pretty and had several upscale amenities, like an overstuffed queen-sized bed, separate shower area and tub (with a view at that!), and my personal favorite: the view from the sliding glass doors, which opens up to the pool and my own private lounge area! These rooms are a godsend for when the beach becomes too crowded during the peak season.

The resort is also positioning itself as a well-being resort by creating a health-conscious cuisine and showcasing their fully-equipped fitness center. Keeping healthy was relatively easy for me this time, which is not usually the case when I am in Boracay where happy hour beckons in almost every bar and lip-smacking restaurants abound. I enjoyed many of the recommended “healthy” dishes on the resort’s menu, particularly the pan-seared scallop (with ponzu vinaigrette and shitake mushrooms) and the seafood crepe (with white wine cream sauce). In lieu of cocktails, I instead consumed an almost ungodly amount of fruit shakes. Not only did I keep up with the daily recommended intake of fruits and vegetables, but the mixture of fresh fruit and ice helped beat the heat.

Breakfast in the hotel is served in a large open area called the Cafe Garden. The usual omelette station, unlimited bacon, and fruit juices were available. Like most hotels in the area, the breakfast is a mix of local, Korean, American, and continental cuisines.

If you can bear the sun, you can also have your meals in the outdoor area, near the pools. For the sun-conscious, eat there during dinner when the sea breeze comes out and so you can admire the blue glow of the pools and the lit-up statues. The food served is inventive Filipino-fusion and the servings are plentiful. If a whole day spent frolicking under the sun hasn’t left you famished, you should opt to split some of your dishes with a friend.

I spent rolling around the sand with friends and members from the media group. We capped off the night with a relaxing massage at the Kai spa. This place is gorgeous, and is one the top spas in the island. It was very luxurious and richly decorated in the oriental style. After filling up a form, I was led to the locker room to change into the robes. Then it was to the tea/lounge room where I almost fell asleep thanks to the chairs and the soothing sounds. The massage was done in a private room, where I had my own bathroom and change area. The masseuse carefully explained each step, telling me how it cleanses and soothes my senses. A gentle gong sounded to signal the start of the massage. How good was it? Well I fell asleep. It seemed like an eternity until the masseuse gently woke me up. My body felt limber, with all the kinks smoothed away. I was ready to sleep there and would have, had I not been served spicy ginger tea and cookies. Walking back to the resort, I felt as though as I was floating.
The trip back to Manila was as smooth as the massage. The Regency representatives took care of everything, and as I was bidding them goodbye, my brain was already ticking, wondering when I would book my next flight back.

Boracay Garden Resort is located at Station 2, Balabag Boracay Island, Malay, Aklan. Call (6336) 288-6672 to 76 or e-mail resort@boracaygarden.com.ph. Visit http://www.boracaygarden.com.ph

Mona Lisa Ristortante

2011-07-12T00:30:00.007-07:00

When reserving a table at Mona Lisa Ristortante, don’t even bother with after-dinner plans. You’ll just want to stretch out, rub your belly, and do the favorite after-work activity of many Alabang-dwellers: stay in for the night.

Mona Lisa opened in mid-2010 and for the longest time, people referred to it as “that Italian restaurant” above the burger-burrito-pizza chains. In time it came to its own as families in the nearby subdivisions came in droves, grateful for a place whose food, service, and ambiance could rival its CBD counterparts.

For me, I was won over by one word: Cannoli.

My first time there I was intrigued by the presence of the item. The first time I’d heard about and seen a cannoli was in one of the Godfather movies. While the poor sod who was gifted with a box of the dessert was um, taken care of, I do remember the decadent-looking pastry and imagining what it tasted like. Now it was finally in front of me, and it looked as rich and mouthwatering as it did in the movie.

Cannoli

Mona Lisa’s owner threatened to stop talking to me if I dared to use utensils to eat it. “You have to use your hands! That’s the proper way!” he ordered. Ever the obedient diner, I took the whole Cannoli (P310) and bit it the same way I would eat a hotdog sandwich. Pure bliss. On my second bite, I topped it with a scoop of vanilla gelato. Oh. My. God.

I have never eaten a cannoli prior to the one I had in Mona Lisa. I don’t have a reference, but I am telling you that their cannoli is pretty awesome. Their version consists of a thick, crunchy pastry shell stuffed with a mixture of ricotta cheese, semi-sweet chocolate, pistachios, and candied fruit. It’s drizzled with chocolate sauce, and served with a scoop of gelato on the side. In the words of Rachel Zoe, it’s “ah-mazing!”

The other dessert on the menu is the Panna Cotta (P275). Another dessert that is good for sharing as it’s served in a deep dish and topped with slices of strawberries, kiwis, grapes, and mangoes (plus a cherry on top!). This sweet, fruity dessert is one of the lighter ways you can end a meal.

Panna Cotta

The pasta dishes are also big favorites. They arrive in large, heated plates and the servings are enough for two people. There are tons of pasta dishes to choose from, but restaurant regulars would undoubtedly recommend the ones under the Fresh Pasta (Prices range from P430 to P475) section. Choose from the pillow-soft gnocchi and ravioli, which are freshly made and cooked in the kitchen. There are several variations, including creamy cheese sauces, mushroom, shrimp and asparagus.

Gnocchi Mare E Monti (P475)

The regular pasta dishes are not to be missed out too. Favorites include the Spaghetti alle Vongole (P450), a light pasta tossed with white wine sauce and seafood; the Petto di Pollo alla Martini (P700) which consists of a breaded chicken chicken breast served atop a bed of linguini with white wine and garlic sauce. The comforting Spaghetti con Polpettine (P425) is a grown-up and Italian version of our spaghetti and meatballs.

Petto di Pollo alla Martini

To start, choose from any of the classic appetizers or the soups, which are all good for sharing or filling enough as a light meal.

Salmon Carpaccio

For something to share, the Salmon Carpaccio (P375) is a winning combination of smoked salon topped with olive oil, capers, and caviar served with chopped tomatoes and olives. I like to pile them on top of bread, like a do-it-yourself bruschetta. Also listed under the Antipasti section is the Cheese Platter (P375), which includes most of the popular cheeses, although not necessarily Italian, like Brie and Emmental, served with honey, crackers, a selection of fruits and nuts.

Cheese Platter

For the carb-lovers, there is the Arancino Siciliano (P375), which are fried rice balls stuffed with mozzarella cheese and topped with rich tomato sauce. This is the kind of dish one tucks into after a particularly harassing day. But one doesn’t need to wait for looming deadline or a date at the HR department to enjoy this dish. Honestly, if it weren’t two giant balls of deep-fried rice and cheese, I would have it everyday.

Arancino Siciliano

I felt fat just writing that line, so here is a light dish to make up for it: the Pappa al Pomodoro (P220) is a light yet filling concoction of tangy-sweet tomatoes, ground croutons, basil and garlic. For the salads, one may choose from simple to the decadent. There is the Traditional Caesar Salad (P330) or the Gamberretti e Pomelo (P385), which is topped with shrimp, pomelo chunks, and a light, citrus vinaigrette.

Gamberretti e Pomelo

Most of the dishes in Mona Lisa are good for sharing. If you’re not sure if a dish is good to split, you may ask any of the gracious wait-staff as they will let you know which ones will leave you pleasantly full and which may lead to bangungot.

Mona Lisa Lasagna (P525)

Fettuccine Gamberi (P530)

Bistecca Al Pepe Nero (P1,130)

Mona Lisa also has a small bar at the back of the restaurant stocked with popular spirits. It also has a good if modest selection of wine to choose from. While the restaurant offers coffee and tea for after-dinner drinks, the brave might want to try their limoncello, which makes for an excellent digestif! The restaurant is open everyday for lunch and dinner. I’ve stayed there until late and the staff graciously let my table linger on over glasses of wine. They know all too well that after an epic meal at Mona Lisa, that’s pretty much all one will want to do!

69% Off for a Standard Room Accomodation with breakfast at A&A Plaza Hotel

2011-07-11T04:15:00.004-07:00

Grab Ensogo’s Today’s Deal! For only P599 per person / night for a Standard Room Accommodation (minimum of 2 persons in a room) with breakfast at A&A Plaza Hotel, Puerto Princesa City, Palawan (valued at P1925)

It’s time to book your dream trip to Palawan with a Standard Room Accommodation at A&A Plaza Hotel, Puerto Princesa’s newest hotel that’s effortlessly stylish yet friendly on the pocket.

Backpackers alert! Explore the laidback city of Puerto Princesa without breaking the bank. See the old fishing port charm and grandiose terrain of this “city in a forest” with a Standard Room Accommodation at A&A Plaza Hotel.This standard room accommodation includes a breakfast at the hotel’s resident café. Each Standard Room is furnished with elegantly cozy amenities that make for a truly relaxing stay.

To buy a voucher click on the photo.

The Beauty of Lace Wigs

2011-07-10T23:41:00.000-07:00

My friend Mae called me a while and was asking me if I can join her in her search for lace front wigs. Yup! You heard it right; she’s currently into wigs lately and she plans to collect more wigs for her personal use. You see, my friend suffered from hair loss before and for her to have her own her back she needed to undergo rigid procedures that really solicit her patience and determination. One of the side effects of the procedure was for her to get totally bald for a month! Imagine that! How would you live your life as a woman if you have no crowning glory to brag? Urgh! I really can’t imagine a former cheerleader losing all her hair and live a life of baldness for a month.

But fortunately he survived it because of the lace wigs that her doctor told her to use. It was a temporary substitute for the hair loss. She wore the lace wigs everyday that some of the people around her neighborhood didn’t realize it was totally fake. Yes, you read it right. Because of the realistic beauty of the lace wigs, everyone who actually seen it has believe it was her natural hair. Since then, she began to love the wigs and she wanted to collect different style ever since. Oh well, I really hope that we can find the lace front wig that she totally loves so that she could complete her collection.

The Romantic and Dreamy Cityscape of Paris

2011-07-09T02:28:00.007-07:00

The romantic and dreamy cityscape of Paris is what makes this European destination on top of most travelers’ wish list. Why not? The capital city of France boasts a lot of attractions that serious travelers should see at least once in their lifetime.

There’s the Eiffel Tower of course, which is the most popular monument of France; the Louvre, a museum that houses the Mona Lisa and was made more famous by the book-turned-movie Da Vinci Code; Moulin Rouge, which is another place that was put in the limelight because of a similar-titled film; and plenty of museums, cathedrals, and other places that truly define Paris as the cultural center of France.

En Route to Paris

The Charles de Gaulle airport is about an hour away from the city proper. My mom and I took the train to get to our hotel since it is the most economical mode of transportation and such a time-saver too. Just a warning though, it can get a bit tough when you go up and down a flight of stairs when you’re lugging around a 20-kilo bag, but we managed anyway. I’m impressed that my mom was able to do so since she has over 30 years on me.

We booked a room at the Holiday Inn in Gare de L’est, which is located just across a main train station. It’s very convenient to stay near a train station because it makes it easy to get around the place. But before we headed out again, we grabbed a couple of city maps from our friendly receptionist and worked out our itinerary for our weekend in Paris. Imagine trying to fit all the main attractions in our weekend schedule... It’s really impossible to do, so you have to choose which ones you really want to visit and prioritize them. I suggest that first-time visitors should check out the major tourist attractions, while the seasoned travelers may go anywhere they please

French Open: Game, Set, Match

As for us, well, we came to Paris with one purpose in mind—to watch the French Open. I confess, I’m a big fan of Roger Federer and I was hoping that we would get to watch him play on the first day of the tournament, or at least just get a glimpse of the greatest tennis player ever. So on our first day in Paris, we took a train to the Roland Garros stadium to purchase our tickets. Imagine my surprise when we saw this long, snaking line to the ticket booth. I guess I should’ve expected that. It’s the French Open grand slam after all.

My bubble of excitement burst when we were told that the opening day tickets were sold out, although we can buy tickets for that day’s exhibition games. We settled for it since we were already there anyway. I got another wave of excitement as we entered the stadium grounds. I hate to sound trite but it’s really like a dream come true for me. A fellow tennis fan could probably relate to it... I could not believe that I was actually there.

We were about to head to the stadium when we got sidetracked by the souvenir shops we saw by the entrance. I just had to get something to remember this moment by. After purchasing a couple of overpriced shirts at 30 euro each and a keychain for 9 euro, we strolled towards the stadium and finally got a peek inside the main clay court where the action happens. Although the tournament hasn’t officially started yet, the bleachers were packed with tennis fans. We had to look for seats way up so my mom and I could sit together.

It’s different when you watch a tennis match live. You can really feel the enthusiasm and excitement of the people around you. And the summer heat made the experience more real for me. The only drawback is that there are no close-ups or replays of the point. But the fun thing about watching a tennis match in person is that you can interact with the fans and join them when they create a human wave.

The exhibition games featured tennis stars such as Mardy Fish, Gael Monfils, Sebastian Grosjean, Marion Bartoli, and Jo-Wilfred Tsonga. Watching the exhibition matches was very entertaining, as the players showed off their funny side while they were on court. I guess it kind of made up for the fact that we weren’t able to see Federer or be there on opening day. But being inside Roland Garros is a treat in itself since my mom and I both haven’t seen it with our own eyes till then.

Where’s the ratatouille?

There’s no way we’re leaving Paris without trying out some fine French cuisine! Breakfast was pretty much basic—bread, butter, cheese, and coffee or tea. Their variety of cheeses is really impressive: there’s soft, semi soft, hard, goat’s cheese, and other kinds that I don’t want to even attempt to pronounce. We bought a box of pepper-flavored Boursin cheese for only 2 euro, which was so flavorful and creamy. It’s a perfect match for a freshly baked croissant.

For lunch, we would eat the baguette sandwiches that practically every bakery offers. I especially liked the tuna sandwich with fresh vegetables (5 euro) because it’s very delicious and filling. It fueled my body and kept me going for the rest of the day.

For our last dinner in Paris, we splurged and dined at a local restaurant. Since we were tired and famished from exploring the city, we just ate at the restaurant beside our hotel—Café de L’est.

Even though their servings were pretty big, we finished every morsel on our plate. The scallops were very tender and fresh, and the vegetables complemented the seafood very well. The pièce de résistance was the slices of lobster that were hidden under the humongous scallop shells. The steak was cooked just right—very juicy and tasty in every bite. We really savored our meal that night and the last evening that we spent in the City of Lights.

By Nikka Sarthou

The Marketplace for Address Plaques

2011-07-09T01:34:00.002-07:00

As said on my previous, I went to my friend’s house last weekend for a tea party. After a few hours of chitchatting and tour in her new mansion, she asked me if I know a store that sells cheap house plaques. Yup! Her mansion is still lacking some exteriors and one of them is the plaque where the address numbers of the house should be placed.

As some of you know, address plaques are very important in every residential unit. Not only that it will give your home the identity but it will also help your mail man in finding your house and deliver your packages or mails. This is especially true if you are a fan of online shopping where you have to purchase something and deliver them directly to your house. Before, I heard lots of courier complaints regarding packages and mails because the mailman cannot find the address of the recipient. That’s why some companies had decided to produce address plaques for residential units and for commercial buildings as well. Anyways, at least my friend’s problem is solved. We only need to order the plaques Justaddressplaques.com and everything will be settled.

I Need to believe that I will Succeed

2011-07-09T00:48:00.003-07:00

Last weekend, I went to my friend’s house for a little tea party. She invited me to her humble abode for she said that it was all made from her tears, sweat and blood from working abroad. Upon arriving, I was really stunned on how big and beautiful her house is. It was like a mansion of a famous movie star with lots of unique and expensive interiors that only a millionaire can purchase. She invited me in and we start drinking our favorite tea. You see, when we were younger this friend of mine and I always go to a tea shop and spend our spare time chatting. She misses those days that we used to enjoy as friends. That’s why she invited me.

After an hour of chitchat, she finally toured me to her house. It was an overwhelming experience seeing how my friend had succeeded so much in life. I really like her house but I fell in love on her backyard most where her big swimming pool lies.

The pool was covered with some safety pool covers and is exquisitely gifted with a beautiful garden. After that we headed to her bedroom and I so love her big bed! Oh! If only I have the money to have my very own mansion I will be the happiest woman ever! Maybe in time I will, with some luck and more perseverance I will fulfill my dreams. All I need is a little motivation and a big fate in God. :)

Weekend Blog Follower Caravan#17

2011-07-08T19:59:00.002-07:00

Hi guys! It’s weekend once again and again I will be joining the Weekend Blog Follower Caravan! Since I joined the caravan most of my blogs have benefited a lot from it. Not only did I gain lots of followers and visitors but I was able to discover lots of wonderful blogs around the world.

By the way, did you know that thru this caravan you can also win lots of paypal money? How?

1. Just follow their sponsors The Pink Piggy and LIKE Weekend Blog Follower Caravan at Facebook (like button at the sidebar).

2. Make a welcome post for others to comment on.

3. Comment on the welcome post if you have followed. If you are already a follower, still leave a comment to know that you have visited.

"Weekend Blog Follower Caravan is a simple online blogger-helping-blogger weekly meme.
It was designed for bloggers to help each other in terms of blog followers either through Google Friend Connect and email subscribers."

So what are you waiting for? Join the caravan now! :)

Identity Theft Protection is a Must

2011-07-08T18:23:00.000-07:00

I’m currently on search for identity theft protection. You see, my client called me this morning and she was mourning about a report on her credit card. Her credit card provider called informing her about a purchase that she didn’t make. To make things worse the amount of the purchase almost exceeded her credit card limit. Unfortunately, she was one of the many victims of identity theft. She was really devastated! Imagine being charge with a huge amount that she didn’t used or spend at all!

Identity fraud or identity theft is very prominent in the World Wide Web, especially now that most people all over the world use the internet for almost everything. From research, shopping, selling, socializing and many more! And because my client was an avid fan of online shopping, her credit card was sent to many online stores worldwide which I believe had caused the hacking of her account. That’s why to prevent any further damages to her accounts and identity I told her to look for an Identity theft protection program that will definitely keep her account in secure place. Fortunately, a friend of mine has recommended Identity Hawk. An online service provider that aid in the protection of one’s assets and their good names. They offer a comprehensive identity theft solution that will put their clients to ease while transacting online.

Anyways, I’m really happy that I was able to help a person today. Hopefully, none of my love ones nor myself would ever experience such theft in the future.

50% Off on Superior Room Accomodation for 2 and Ocean Kayak at Canyon Cove

2011-07-07T19:29:00.004-07:00

Grab Ensogo’s Today Deal at only P5,450 per night on a Superior Room Accommodation for 2 persons with Breakfast plus use of Ocean Kayak and Snorkeling gear at Canyon Cove, Batangas (valued at P10,900)

Make the most out of your weekend trip this side of paradise, with Canyon Cove’s overnight superior room accommodation with breakfast for 2, plus free one-hour use of the ocean kayak and snorkeling gear for 2 persons and access to swimming pool and beach.

For more details click on the photo above.

Free Credit Score Report Online

2011-07-07T19:00:00.000-07:00

Nowadays, it is a must that one must take care of his credit score. Especially now that our country is in recession, one must always check if their credit score is in good standing. For those who have no idea what a credit score is here’s a little information about it.

Credit score is a numerical expression based on a statistical analysis of person’s credit files, this represents the credit worthiness of that person. That is why for you to qualify to different kinds of credit or loans you should have a good credit score. One way for you to have a good credit score is to always pay your credit card debt on time. Financial institutions will only give and approve loans to those people who knows how to pay their debts on time.

Now, if you’re not sure what your credit score is, you can check the internet for free credit score report and see for yourself if you’re on the right track.

Food Trip Friday | Abbondanza Pizza

2011-07-07T18:44:00.001-07:00

Take a load of this luscious long pizza from Abbondanza Pizzera Ristorante.

If you love Italian dishes this ristorante is the place to be! :)

Abbondanza Pizzera Ristorante
Located @ SM Megamall
G/F The Strip at Megamall
Mega Building A
Julia Vargas Avenue, Mandaluyong City