While settled in a cookie-cutter cubicle, working long hours and despite a cushy job, one does feel that travel is the answer to all the problems of the world. After all, who wouldn’t like to take a breathtaking vacay to forget the yearly targets and client deadlines just to breathe in some life!
Many of us romanticize ‘Eat, Pray, Love’ and ‘Wild’ thinking that we can find ourselves in another corner of the world. And there is no denying that the magic of travel might just do that for you!
However, before you let yourself loose on those travel plans, why not have a think about the kind of a person you are and make plans based on that? To help you in the decision-making here are our meticulously curated places to visit based on different personalities!
1. The Quintessential Traveler
Do you love it when your bookings are up to the mark, reservations are in place and you have an itinerary made? And does it make you cringe when you see other people traveling with absolutely no plans and nothing organized? Hola, quintessential traveler!
To allow yourself to enjoy the most of your travel plans, we recommend Italy. Choose a guided tour or a vineyard exploration in Italy and you will have the time of your life!
2. The History Buff Traveler
Love visiting historical places? Do you thrive on the cultural and regional stories of every destination on your bucket list? Shopping malls and theme parks not exactly your idea of fun? Manila would be perfect for you then!
A buzzing melting pot of history and culture, explore Manila one day at a time in a sweeping jeepney, visit Rizal Park, explore the San Augustin Church made in the 16th century and relish fresh fruits at markets near the Quiapo Church. You’ll get to relive the past of Manila and end the day feeling rejuvenated!
3. The Peace Loving Traveler
Do you tilt towards a no-frills attached, freeing vacay where you can meditate, relax and just be with yourself at peace? For a pacific traveler like you, we cannot recommend Leh in Ladakh more!
Nestled in India, this magical place is home to monks and monasteries, the Pangong Lake, and a backdrop of mountains and empty roads. Head to this part of the world to experience nirvana in its true sense!
4. The Aesthete Traveler
Are you an avid admirer of art and literature? Find beauty in all the small details? Sun, sand and surf not exactly your style of vacay? Then Paris would undoubtedly appease your senses.
Visit the Louvre Museum and get lost in the splendid world of art and culture. Go hunting for all kinds of unique trinkets and souvenirs at Saint-Ouen Flea Market. And to bring back some splendid memories of wonderful artists go and visit the graves of Oscar Wilde, Jim Morrison and Édith Piaf at Père Lachaise cemetery. Thank us later!
5. The Aquaphile Traveler
Love that feeling of the warm sun on your skin, salt in your hair and silky sand sifting between your toes? Feel at peace as the sound of a soft whispering breeze gently rustles shady palms overhead while small waves in the ocean form and gently crash against the shore to make the perfect background soundtrack? Boracay is undoubtedly the destination for you!
Known as the beach capital of the Philippines, this stunning island is a dream for all you water babies, beach addicts, and sun-seekers out there. The sweeping beaches, accommodation options and a plethora of water activities make it an ideal summer destination!
6. The Party Thriving Traveler
ibiza-spotlight.com
Always feel like a trip is incomplete without a banging party and a terrible hangover to mark the end (or perhaps the beginning?) of it? Not really into any of that history or artsy stuff most of Europe is famous for? Ibiza is the place for you then!
Whether you’re young, single and free, or all grown-up with kids, a mortgage and a laundry full of washing, the party animal in you is going to love Ibiza without a doubt. Connect with amazing people, chill out with a sunset cocktail, and party hard at this amazing island destination.
7. The Adrenaline Seeking Traveler
Does the sound of abseiling off massive cliffs and jumping out of tiny airplanes get your heart racing in excitement? Built-up cities and glitzy hotels make you want to run far away? Yep, you’re the definition of an adventure traveler!
If adventure is your middle name then Australia is the right place for a traveler like you. From mountain climbing at Mount Brown to extreme adventure sports, Australia lets you experience the edge of life. Head there to feed your craving for adrenaline!
Bonus Tip
Once you are done exploring the unique destinations that match your personality type, try putting yourself out there by discovering other places fit for opposite personality types as well. Because life is short… Why not give it a go?
Seeing the world doesn’t have to cost a pretty penny. While traveling by airplane is pretty popular around the globe, going places by train is also a great alternative. Apart from fast and efficient travel times, it also offers passengers some pretty great scenery.
Although trains are certainly a viable option for travelers who want to see the world from the ground (with the help of fast rails), these aren’t exactly the cheapest forms of transport. Depending on your destination, these can command a high price.
Thankfully, there are a number of tips you can do to save money when booking a train. Not only will this help you score the best deals for intra and inter-city (or even country) travel, this will also make you a more savvy traveler. Check out these four train ticket booking tips below.
Booking a Train in Advance
One of the best ways you can score cheaper train tickets is by booking in advance. Depending on the train you’ll be riding on, there will be reduced-priced tickets for those securing ‘Advanced’ seats. However, these are sold on a first-come, first-served basis so you need to be quick in getting these.
To get more affordable rates, it’s advised that you get a train ticket booking at least 10 to 12 weeks prior. Even buying your tickets a week or two before can help you save by as much as 43%.
Train websites and platforms are obligated to sell the same tickets due to regulated pricing. However, operators and companies themselves may offer promotions or spin-offs and discounts from time to time, so make sure to check out their website when making advanced bookings.
Travel During Off-Peak Hours
Weekends and rush hours are insane, primarily because these are peak hours and many individuals are rushing to get to places. Most journeys that fall into these rush hour or peak time categories often incur a much higher rate thanks to peak time premiums. These fall from before 9 am to around 5 or 6 pm.
If you can spare it, opt for off-peak travel. Apart from avoiding crowded trains or being forced to stand for the majority of your trip. Different train operators and companies have varying sets of peak and off-peak times, so remember to check out their website prior to buying.
Look for Slower Routes
While speed is essential for some individuals, taking a slightly longer route could help you save more money in the long run. Similar to taking a direct flight, a faster and more direct route tends to cost more.
If you are willing to ‘sacrifice’ some of your time, you might want to take a different route. This may require you to switch trains, but it would definitely save you tons of money. Plus, it would also allow you to see more scenery.
For example, taking the Shinkansen called Nozomi in Japan is one of the major highlights for many people as it can traverse the major cities of Tokyo and Kyoto in a matter of hours.
However, if you are keen to save some bucks, a viable option would be to take the Hikari with a delay of 15 minutes. You can save more with the Kodama, albeit it is much slower and has more stops in between.
Opt for Split Ticketing Train Ticket Booking
If you absolutely cannot travel outside of peak hours or have to start before 9 am in the morning, you may want to explore split ticketing. This would allow you to cover two separate parts of your trip that you would split up the tickets that happen before and after peak hours.
While it would make sense to simply purchase tickets for the whole journey, getting a number of separate train ticket booking trips would allow you to significantly lower the price even though you’re on the same train.
The only difference from buying direct is that you’ll have two tickets instead of one and that the train you’ll be boarding must call or stop at the station/s you purchase tickets for. You might not even have to switch trains or get out of your seat.
The Bottom Line
Booking a train seat for cheap might seem like a once in a lifetime opportunity. With these four nifty tricks, you can finally make a saving on your trips while still snagging some of the best seats in the block.
On September 28, 2017, from 9 AM to 5 PM at Makati Sports Club along Leviste Street, Salcedo Village, Makati, the first convergence of tour operators and travel agencies will be launched to promote the Philippines as the premier travel destination in the world. Travelooza is the current theme of Asia Digital Marketing Expo which is celebrating its 3rd year anniversary.
One of the leaders in the Philippines supporting Travelooza is no other than Ms. Regina Victoria Y. De Ocampo of Yupangco Group of Companies, the granddaughter of the former Philippine President Jose P. Laurel. According to her, supporting this kind of events can create awareness in our beautiful country, and a destination like no other.
Yupangco Group of Companies which includes Yupangco Music Corporation, Yamaha Electronics, Yupangco Music Academy formerly Yamaha School of Music, Zoomanity Group, YL Finance and much more. According to Regina, her mom, Nita L. Yupangco helped her so much to appreciate more on how the Laurels are passionate for the country.
For this year 2017, according to the company website, after 50 years, G. A. YUPANGCO & CO., INC., through its present complement of 31 stores and 35 music school centers across the Philippines, continues to serve the needs of the Filipino musician and music enthusiast, providing the state of the art in musical instruments and sound reinforcement technology and the finest in music education while Zoomanity Group, the theme park management headed by her brother, Robert Laurel Yupangco is the number 1 theme park destination and is expanding in the Philippines.
For more info and to register about Travelooza, please send inquiries to events@travelooza.asia or call 09166299381 or (02)9170213.
Unknown to many, rideshare drivers aren’t the only ones that need to keep records of their day-to-day travels. In fact, from salesmen to shop owners to freelancers, keeping a reliable mileage tracker app is a must to ensure tax advantages.
Fortunately, with tons of amazing mileage trackers out there, anyone can now keep tabs on their work-related mileage and expenses anytime, anywhere. The Everlance app is one of the best tech solutions that can help you track your mileage.
Interested to know more? Below, we have prepared a brief guide on everything you need to know about this mobile software. Read on to see whether this app is the right choice for you.
Image from App Groves
Everlance App – What It Is & What To Expect
Remember the time before the boom of mobile applications? From logbooks to gas receipts to parking stubs, there were a ton of things drivers had to collect in order to keep records of their travel.
Not only is this task laborious, but it can also get achingly confusing, especially with all the receipts one must keep just to ensure that records will be consistent, accurate, and organized.
Luckily, to date, different mileage tracker apps have made it easier for drivers to keep track of the distance they have traveled with less hassle. Everlance, in particular, is one of the most popular mobile apps that let users experience such convenience.
Key Features
Working as an advanced mileage tracker and expense log software, the app uses GPS to track trips automatically so the driver can focus on his or her travel, save time, and enjoy peace of mind.
In particular, with the said app, the start time and end time of each trip will be recorded consistently. On top of that, the app will also automatically calculate business mileage and reimbursement value using the data it has collected.
If you want to keep receipts for future proof, you can even take snaps of receipts and upload them to be restored in the app. To add to the convenience, you can also access its bank and credit card integration feature to keep track of your revenue and expenses.
Given these amazing and impressive features, it’s not surprising that Everlance comes as a top choice for drivers from different walks of life – including freelancers, real estate agents, shop owners, independent contractors, corporate employees, and organizations.
How To Use The Everlance App
Taking advantage of Everlance’s features for your personal convenience is pretty easy. Once you start your car trip, the Everlance app will automatically detect it and will begin to keep track of your mileage details.
From there, you choose to launch the app and categorize the trip you’re taking as business or personal. At the end of your travel, you can download Excel or PDF reports of your mileage and expenses straight from the app.
Where To Get Everlance & How Much Is It?
The good news is, Everlance is now available on Google Play and the Apple Store. This means that the software is now accessible to both iOS and Android users. On top of that, the app is available for download free of charge.
However, on the downside, it’s full features can’t be accessed if you don’t sign up for its paid subscription. Specifically, if you’re using its free version, you’ll only get to enjoy 30 automatic trips each month.
Prices of the Everlance paid subscription ranges from $5 to $10 per month, billed annually.
The Bottom Line
Impressed with the Everlance app? Ditch the mileage log and shoebox of receipts by turning to this automatic mileage tracker and expense log software. With this app, you can ensure that all of your tax credits and information is in order.
Why Cincinnati Is an Underrated Travel Destination
Image Credit: PexelsWhen thinking about the best tourist cities in the country, Cincinnati is probably not on the top of your list. However, with an incredible selection of things to do, foods to eat, and sights to see, there’s an abundance of fun to be had in the Queen City. Check out some of these great places on your next trip! You may love this city so much, you’ll find yourself looking at Cincinnati houses for sale once you return home.
There’s no shortage of amazing art in Cincinnati. From the Cincinnati Art Museum to the Contemporary Arts Center, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. To make your trip just a little more aesthetically pleasing, make sure to book your stay right around the corner from the Contemporary Arts Center at 21c Museum and Hotel. Here, you can enjoy their rotating exhibits and check out one of their incredible restaurants right in the comfort of your boutique hotel. It’s truly a “night at the museum” experience!
Food
Speaking of restaurants, there is no shortage of delicious spots to grab a bite in Cincinnati. Grab one of Salazar’s iconic reuben sandwiches before you stroll through the city’s Over-the-Rhine neighborhood or head over to Gomez Salsa’s walk-up taco window for a quick bite on the go while you explore this incredible city. Just make sure you don’t leave the area without trying Senate for a spin on your typical street food. They sell a mean gourmet hot dog and a side of truffle fries that will put all others to shame.
If you’re looking for a city that has a bustling downtown as well as some quiet, natural areas, this is the perfect place for you. Plan a romantic picnic in Eden Park, where you can relax by the lake or take a stroll down one of the many walking paths. Here, you can also experience a breathtaking view of the city while staying hidden away in this quaint pocket of Cincinnati. You should also make sure to check out the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden on your visit, especially if you’re bringing along the whole family. Kids will love experiencing the gardens and learning about nature.
Sports
If you’re able to catch a game at the Great American Ball Park on your journey to Cincinnati, you’ll have a once-in-a-lifetime experience in the home of the US’s oldest professional baseball team, the Cincinnati Reds. If your trip doesn’t coincide with a game, there’s no need to fret. Real sports fans can head over to the Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame and Museum to learn about the history of this iconic team.
How to Keep the Spark Alive in a Long-Distance Relationship
Surviving a long-distance relationship (LDR) isn’t an easy thing to do. Not only are you physically further from your partner, but living separately can cause emotional friction, and induce a lot of stress when you need to travel back and forth to visit. But LDRs don’t have to be boring or emotionally draining!
In this post, we’ll explore some tips that can help you keep the spark alive no matter how many miles separate you two.
Create surprises
When you’re in an LDR, there’s a lot of video chatting, texting, and calling, which can lead to kind of mundane conversations from time to time. While it’s not a bad thing, sometimes things can become too stuck in a routine. Maintaining some element of surprise is key if you want to have a successful long-distance relationship.
When you’re in an LDR, you might feel like you and your partner constantly have to travel back and forth from each other’s homes, which can easily get to feel pretty repetitive. So, why not spice things up a little? Instead of visiting one another, plan a few trips where the two of you meet in a new place!
Use a discount travel site to keep the cost down and create an element of thrill. Check out the best deals and then choose which one sounds the most fun to the two of you. This will be a fun getaway and a way for the two of you to reset, unwind, and create new memories in a new place.
Talk a lot, but don’t overdo it
While relationship experts say you should never spend more than three weeks apart, they also recommend you keep your cool when checking in while you’re apart. Leaving a day or two in between communication can make your catch-up conversation all the more exciting when you get to it! That’s not to say you have to go without a “Good Morning” text, but don’t feel like you need to be in constant communication.
Being away from your partner might not be your preferred situation, but being solo isn’t the worst thing in the world, either! There are plenty of things you can do alone that you couldn’t do with your S.O. on your side. When you’re on your own, you can stretch your limbs all the way across the bed, go to a movie alone, or do the one thing he or she hates to do. Use this time as a period where you can work on yourself and do the things you want to do, it doesn’t have to be miserable if you don’t want it to be.
Be prepared to make sacrifices
From having to spend money on travel to missing out on important life milestones, LDRs are all about making sacrifices. If you’re able to admit and accept that there are some factors beyond your control, your life and your relationship will surely benefit.
However, this fact goes both ways. You and your partner should both be making sacrifices, not just one way or the other. Try to make visits fairly equal so that neither one of you is spending more time-off or money to keep your relationship in good standing, and be sure these guidelines are set from the start. Being upfront and honest with your expectations will help you dodge surprises (of the negative variety) later on down the road.
LDRs are about making sacrifices, but they’re also about forming trust. Some LDRs have more trust built up than those where S.O.’s are side by side at all times. Sure, it’s tempting to social media stalk your partner at all times, but it doesn’t really do anything to boost your connection.
Key Takeaways
Surviving—and thriving—in an LDR is no small feat, but with some hard work and a whole lot of trust, you’ll find your way. Use these tips to help you create a plan for making your relationship work for you and your partner, no matter where you’re headed.
Discover the hidden gems of Mindanao. Uncovered them from all the horrifying news out there! 🖤
Calling all the brave souls to explore Mindawow. #MybirthdayUltimateTour. 🛫 Photo by: Aby Salazar
SOCCSKSARGEN, ARMM & CARAGA SOLO BACKPACKING. 🔥
👣 South Cotabato 👣 Cotabato 👣 Sultan Kudarat 👣 Saranggani 👣 General Santos 👣 Maguindanao 👣 North Cotabato 👣 Agusan del Norte 👣 Agusan del Sur Photo by: Aby Salazar Photo by: Aby Salazar Photo by: Aby Salazar
Day 1: CRK-DVO 🛫
Terminal Fee: 💰150.00 ⏰8:00AM: ETA Francisco Bangoy Int’l Airport.
Destination:
Saranggani, General Santos. 👒
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Taxi to Ecoland Bus Terminal 💰360
YellowBus to General Santos 💰259.00（4hrs.travel time)
Half day tour 💰300.00
Plaza heneral santos
Pacman wildcard gym
Tuna complex 🚖3PM ETD Bulaong Terminal going Lake Sebu, South Cotabato. 💰150.00 (2hrs)
First trip: 4AM
Last trip: 4PM
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5PM: ETA Lake Sebu. 🌺 🏠Check in:T’BOLI HOMESTAY💰350.00 with breakfast na sobrang sarap. I chose this accommodation to experience T’boli life. ❣️
Contact: (0935) 456 9359
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Met my housemate David from Spain and had dinner with him. Perks of traveling alone? You’ll meet new friends. 😊
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Lights Off. 🙂
Day 2: Lake Sebu Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Pink Mosque Maguindanao & Grand Mosque, Cotabato. 🕌
⏰Wake up call: 5:00AM
. Contact: Kuya Jun 0906 758 6256
(Legit tour guide and very good photographer)
Viewing Lotus: 💰200.00 (boat rent)
7Waterfalls Zipline: 💰350.00
Divine mercy 💰65 for the candle.
Weaving Center (donation only)
Before I left Lake Sebu, I met an old friend Dave from Davao who is currently visiting lake Sebu too! Woah. This is so very unexpected! Nice to see you again! 🧡
11AM: ETD LAKE SEBU
Van to Surallah 💰40.00
Van to Isulan Provincial Capitol. SK 💰50.00
Trike to Isulan provincial capitol and back to Isulan Terminal 💰 40 (because I asked kuya to wait me na)
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Husky bus to Pink Mosque (Masjid Dimaukom) 💰70.00
Tell the driver to drop you at the Pink Mosque, you wont missed it. Its in the right side if you’re heading Cotabato.
Trike to Pink Mosque 💰20.00
I ask kuya to wait me na bawal kase magtagal doon for safety purposes. We also opt to see Mamasapano saf44clash spot. This is not advisable if you are alone, no choice lang ako kase andon na ako. Always follow your instincts and pray for your safety. 🙂
quick picture taking then escaped.
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3PM: Van to Grand Mosque
(Bobong Crossing) 💰50.00
4PM: Habal habal to Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Masjid (Grand Mosque) 💰 150RT
4:30PM: ETA Grand Mosque
Rent Costume 💰50.00
5PM: ETD Grand Mosque
I asked kuya to wait me baka kase wala na ko masakyan pabalik mahirap na magpagabi sa daan. Also, I asked him to take me to my hotel. Just give him a certain amount as consideration.
This guy also told me his life story and i became speechless . 😱 🏠Check in: Hotel Almaseer 💰700
Location: Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao.
From Bobong Crossing, Just ride jeepney bound for Awang then tell the driver to drop you at Petron. 💰7.00
Contact: (0916) 298 5993 Photo by: Aby Salazar Photo by: Aby Salazar Photo by: Aby Salazar
Day3: Mt. Minandar, DOS Maguindanao and Asik-Asik Falls, North Cotabato
⏰Wake up call: 5:00AM
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My original plan is to visit Asik-Asik Falls only but Mountains are calling! Lets do some hiking herein Mindanao. Mt. Minandar, is a 3/9 climb located at Datu Odin Sinsuat in Maguindanao.
I made hike arrangement with Sir Datuhabib Ala Salazar ( aapelyido ko pa amazing!) Contact: +63 905 617 1725
you can also contact him if you’re planning to visit another part of SOX and ARMM. He is a registered tourism officer in DOS. Thank you sir for the safe trip!
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5:30AM: We ride payong-payongan from Hotel Almaseer to Mt. Minandar registration area 💰150.00one way.
6:00AM: Registration 💰25.00 and secure guide 💰150.00
dont worry its safe to do hiking in Mt. Minandar, just coordinate to their tourism and registration area. 🙂 Mt. Minandar has so much to offer! Its better to see it once than hear about it hundred times. 💕
9AM: ETA jump off.
Back to the hotel then fixed things. Check out.
Ride a jeepney to Cotabato with TOWN signage and ask the driver to drop you at Tams Bakery, from there its just walking distance to the van terminal going Midsayap. 💰16.00
Dahil mabait yung nasakyan ko, hinatid ako sa mismong tapat ng terminal.
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. 🚖Van bound for Midsayap and alight at Libungan Crossing 💰70
11AM: Arrived at Libungan Crossing.
. Contact: Kuya Yson 0926 860 5767 💰1,300 habal habal RT to Bgry. Dado
recommended tour guide! Maliban sa napakagaling mag dispatsa ng photobombers, magaling din mag alaga ng guest. Hinde ka papabayaan like sbhn mo lang kung ano kailangan mo like saan masarap kumain at kung saan ang pinakamabilis na way ppunta sa next destination mo. Sya na din bahalang magsasabi sayo saang spot maganda kumuha ng litrato. 💯
LUNCH： try their Pastel! Masarap 10pes lang! 👌
1PM: Trek to Asik-Asik Falls
（15-20mins)
Registration fee. 💰35.00
2:30PM: END OF TOUR
Ask kuya to drop you at WAO If you are heading Cagayan de Oro. Midsayap naman if you are bound for Davao. 🙂 🚖Bus to DVO 💰259.00 (4hrs)
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4:30PM ETD TO DAVAO.
9PM: ETA DAVAO
met Dave in Davao and do some foodtrips and roadtrips around Roxas Night Market. 😋
Thank you Dave for your hospitality! 🙂
Supposedly, pupunta akong Dinagat Islands via Surigao pero since late na din ako sa biyahe, sa Butuan nalang ako dumaretso. Hnde na ko nag accomodation dito kasi ilang oras nalang aalis na bus from Davao going Butuan.
12:00Midnight: DVO-BXU 💰730.00 😱 ang mahal! Non stop daw e tsaka may tv bawat upuan. Ganon yon??? Sa bus nalang ako natulog. 🙂 Photo by: Aby Salazar Photo by: Aby Salazar Photo by: Aby Salazar
DAY 4: Butuan, Agusan Del Norte
5:30AM BUTUAN
Trike to Gloreto Luxury Hotel: 💰50.00
Check in: 💰700.00
Pahinga lang tas ligo, kain na din.
7AM: Decided to see Bega Falls in Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur since its just 1hr away from Butuan.
Ride a bus bound for Davao and alight at AWA JUNCTION. 💰100.00
9AM: ETA Awa junction
Habal habal to Bega Falls registration area (20-30mins) 💰150.00 RT.
Registration: 💰35.00
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379 steps to Bega Falls! 😱
Ako lang mag isa bumaba hnde na kailangan ng tour guide tapos pagbaba ko wala man tao sa baba medyo natakot ako kase ako lang mag isa doon. Hahaha bute nalang may group of friends na dumating from Butuan. Mababait naman makukulit nga lang. nice to meet you po! 😊
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Photo ops then lunch with Kuya Jun (my habal habal guide)
1PM: ETD TO BUTUAN
2PM: ETA Gloreto Hotel.
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Rest and Early dinner.
Lights off.
Day5: Vinapor Blue Water Resort and departing to Manila. 💋
4:30AM Wake up call.
Check out. 🛫
5:00AM: Trike to Robinsons Terminal 💰50.00
Ride a bus bound for CDO, tell the driver to drop you at the crossing near Tagcatong Elementary School in Carmen. 💰95.00 (1hr ride)
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Hire a trike or habal habal to Vinapor Blue Water Resort 💰200RT.
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Entrance fee: 35.00
Pool Access: 100.00
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9AM Bus TO CDO (5hrs ride from Carmen) 💰330.00
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1:30PM ETA Agora Terminal.
Lunch.
2pm: Van to Airport 💰200.00 🛫Fly to Mnl.
(Dapat Clark ako e, nag cancel nang flight kaya nagrequest na kong sumabay pa Mnl.)
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1. Being solo traveler is not that easy, its a matter of courage and faith! Faith to God and to yourself.
2. My journey is somehow a safe journey but I cant tell you that its totally safe, danger is everywhere so be vigilant always especially to the Muslim areas, wear proper attire. Dont wear shorts and sleeveless! Respect their Mosque, traditions and culture. You don’t have to worry, Military checkpoints are everywhere you can ask directions to them.
3. Always bring your Id and use google maps.
4. People in these places are aware if you are a tourist or not so just ignore the stares and focus to your plans. If you are not comfortable in what you are doing or where you are going, don’t insist.
5. Contact your guides before coming. Also, book ahead your accomodation.
If you are not in hurry naman please bus na skyan nyo if pwede. Mabilis kase magdrive mga van doon e overloading pa.
6. Listened to locals’ stories and you’ll be amazed that not all we see and heard in news are real.
7. Sox, Armm and Caraga have so much places to offer! Visit and see! 💕
To sum up, its a smooth tour experience and promised to do it again. 💋
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I would like to thank all of the people who prayed for this safe trip.
Also, those people I met along the way that made this travel memorable and safe.
Of course, my trusted tour guides for taking care of me. Thank you so much!
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Ps. pinost ko to para mahanap ako nung nakilala ko don hinde ko kase nakuha pangalan nya. 😭
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Bucket list Checked! 💘 #SoxIsNext#Roadto81provinces #61/81ph #Armm#CaragaRegion#MindaWow#DosTourism#Soccsksargen#MustTravelPh#LakbayPinas#Abyahera#WetravelPh
“Bambanti” is an Ilocano word for a scarecrow, which the province considers as shield despite the common notion that it stirs fear. Devised with colorful straws, raw products, egg shells, and grasses wrapped in farmer’s clothing, bambanti has always been the representation and mascot of the festival.
The Bambanti Festival is a three-time winner of Aliw Awards, bringing home the title of Best Festival Practices and Performance for 2015 to 2017.
Here are the winners/awardees at the recent Bambanti Festival 2018 held last January 22-27, 2018.
BEST AGRO-ECOTOURISM INSTALLATION WINNER – 2018
Municipality of NAGUILIAN
BEST CHORAL GROUP
CAUAYAN CITY
BEST DANCE SHOWDOWN
Municipality of ALICIA
BEST FESTIVAL KING AND QUEEN COSTUME
Municipality of SAN AGUSTIN
BEST GIANT BAMBANTI INSTALLATION
Municipality of BURGOS
BEST STREETDANCE CONTINGENT
Municipality of ALICIA
BEST MAKAN TI ISABELA
“FRIED SWEET AND SOUR ADOBO” by the Municipality of Echague
BEST MAINUM TI ISABELA
“ILLURU” by the Municipality of Echague
*All photos are from the Bambanti Festival Information Office of Isabela.
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Ximending is one of the busiest streets in Taipei as it almost has all the goods and products you could ask for, one of the largest night markets in Taipei, and one best hotel to stay within Ximending grounds is amba Taipei Ximending.
The amba Taipei Ximending lies within the fashionable area of Wuchang Street where shopping malls and designer shops are lined up. It’s not hard to find and a perfect place to explore one of the biggest night markets in town. Within 5 minutes, you can reach the MRT Ximen station — hassle-free.
amba Taipei Ximending
The amba Taipei Ximending is a newly refurbished boutique hotel that lies within the center of Ximending. It’s the first amba boutique hotel establishment before amba Taipei Songshan and amba Taipei Zhongshan from which all focus on travelers looking for creativity, connectivity, and conservation.
Amba Hotels are also socially responsible thru the use of eco-friendly materials, crafts, and all natural products, helping the local community and being an advocate of building a healthy and sustainable environment. They are partnered with Two Acres, a socially responsible Taiwanese brand, that supplies their bathroom amenities and needs, which helps in giving second chances to people who have formerly committed issues with the law.
amba Taipei Ximending: Review, Experience, and What You Need to Know
If you would like to stay at a place where you can definitely go shopping and hoard pasalubong, then this hotel is where you should certainly stay.
Getting to this hotel was relatively easy if you are using Google Maps to get directions from MRT Ximen Station to the hotel. We were accompanied by a taxi service because before heading to amba Taipei Ximending hotel, we had our tour at Yangminshan.
To get to the hotel lobby, look for Eslite Spectrum Wuchang and proceed to the end hall. Use the elevators and press 5th floor. The amba Taipei Ximending covers the 5th floor up to the 10th floor of the establishment with 160 guest rooms and 6 room categories to choose from.
Hotel Lobby and Check-In Process
The hotel lobby of amba Taipei Ximending is quite large and nice that can accommodate large groups for check-in. One distinct trait noticeable is the art in itself. Every corner is picture-worthy. They even have a wall with a portrait made of stickers that you’ll be amazed when taking a closer look. The ceiling is industrial – composed of bare pipes – perfect for the artsy type of place that the hotel has.
Facing the front desk are tables and chairs that can be used also as a lounge where you conduct your own meetings. With a ceiling so high, the area is lighted with ample natural light making it a good place to hang-out for a while.
We also had a lot of stuff because we brought all our bags with us to the tour so we really wanted a quick check-in process and the front desk did not disappoint. We handed over our passports and paid the check-in incidental deposit. A few minutes later, they handed us the keys to our room.
Extra Large Room
We were designated with an Extra Large Room that is 36 sqm big, definitely not an ordinary room.
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On entry, easily noticeable are the bathrobes hanging on the corner after the tables and chairs. One great thing about amba hotels, they always are bathrobe ready no matter what kind of room you stayed in.
There also are welcome snacks and drinks then a few minutes later, a pizza came in with salad courtesy of amba Taipei Ximending, what a way to welcome guests!
On the other side of the table is the meant-to-be oversized wash area. They made it like that for the purpose that their guests could fill the spaces with their own belongings. Underneath is where the towels, the mini bar, the safety box, and the notable amba slippers are placed. These slippers are like a perfect take home gift for yourself.
One each side are the separate shower and toilet. The toilet on our room was quite the ordinary, nonetheless, cleanliness is we are after and they clearly have it. The shower room is similar to what we had previously, with a hot and cold feature, you know it’ll be lovely.
Bedroom Area
The next division of the room is where I saw one of the conservation strategies they had. A drum was split in two to make a new fixture – that’s pretty awesome I say! They made it into a table and was partnered with a sofa that could be extendable as a bed.
Across the sofa is where the bed lies. In front of it was the television, where I had watched Netflix movies all night. You know, even when we get to busy exploring the town in the day, I still get a chance to relax at night by watching favorite shows.
The room’s bedroom was nice with a minimalistic design. It was rather simple I can say but that’s the kind of simplicity you would want for yourself and your partner. With the nice application of night lights, it’ll make you relax and fall into sleep in place or get intimate.
One good thing also is that the noise from outside couldn’t get in your room. All the noise that Ximending generates cannot penetrate the walls. Aside from the relaxing night lights, the silence is what can make you fall asleep fast.
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Here are other Extra Large Room features:
FREE Hi-Speed WiFi access to all levels
Sony BRAVIA Internet TV
Universal Power Outlets
Writing Desk
Eco-Friendly wood flooring
Hypoallergenic pillows and blankets
Electric Kettle
More rooms at amba Taipei Ximending
The Smart room and the Medium room is one of the most booked hotel rooms in amba Taipei Ximending. The smart room is 22 sqm big while the medium room is 3 sqm bigger.
Medium room could have one king-sized bed or a twin bed depending on what the guests would prefer. A queen-sized bed is designated for the smark room.
The loft room is one of the biggest and that’s better be booked when you have a big company staying in a single room.
Each room has basically the same features similar to every other room. Check out the photos.
Chiba, Tingba, and Tianba
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Chiba and Tingba can be located on the 5th level of the hotel while Tianba is located on the ground level aligned with the other shops in the street.
Chiba was where we had our sumptuous breakfast, buffet style. The interior was playful and fun making every single visit pleasant. You can check more about Chiba here.
Tingba is where people are encouraged to chill-out especially on Fridays where live band and singers are invited to perform. The aesthetics of the place are kind of artsy and we got there, was nautical. With boxes transformed into a treasure box, this place will surely make you take a lot of pictures with it.
Remember: ‘Ba’ was the hotel reference name from ‘amba’
Chi is a Chinese phrase meaning ‘to eat’. Ba was the hotel reference name from ‘amba’ – combined together, forming Chiba.
Ting means ‘to listen’ in Chinese, forming Tingba.
Tian translates to ‘sweet’ in Chinese, forming Tianba.
Attractions near amba Taipei Ximending
Our stay wouldn’t be complete when there is nothing to see in the area. Here are nearby attractions that make WESTGATE Hotel one of the prime locations to stay when in Taipei. 1. Ximending Night Market – since the WESTGATE Hotel Taipei is located in the Ximending area, you wouldn’t be able to miss the sparkling lights at Ximending Night Market. Just a few meters away and you’ll be in a different scene where it is livelier with the overwhelming crowd. This one of the many night markets in Taipei almost has it all, from fancy stuff to the delicious food offerings, almost everything you could think of, you could find here! 2. The Red House – or also known as the Red House Theater, is a historical site located in Ximending. It was built in 1908 during the Japanese rule. It’s just across the other street from the hotel. The Red House 3. Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall – located about 2 kilometers from the hotel and are two stations away from Ximen Station. To get there, ride the MRT Ximen Station (Green Line) and get off at Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall Station. 4. Longshan Temple – one of the oldest temples in Taipei and just one station away from Ximending. It’s also one of the famous temples in Taiwan due to it being near the city center. To get there, ride MRT Ximen Station (Blue line) and get off at Longshan Temple Station.
[hoops name=”InArticle”] 5. Bo Pi Liao Old Street – you can get here via a short walk from the Longshan Temple. 6. 228 Peace Park – is a historic site and municipal park located near the hotel. The park contains memorials to victims of the February 28 Incident of 1947, including the Taipei 228 Memorial that stands at the center of the park and the Taipei 228 Memorial Museum. 7. One Piece Mugiwara Store – One store you should visit if you are a fan of the hit anime ‘One Piece’.
Day Tour from Taipei
Travel Hack # 1: We didn’t miss the opportunity to check for experiences outside Taipei. We availed of the following while we were in Taiwan via KKday.
Why avail from KKday? Their startup is based in Taiwan so they have the best partnership for their tours (and cheaper too!).
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Get to see the popular spots of Taipei with KKday sightseeing bus tour. A cheap and easy way to enjoy the whole city and see the famous and latest attractions in town. Our comprehensive review and experience to be posted soon. Book here.
Get to adventure and see for yourself the following: Jiufen Old Street, Yehliu Geopark, Shifen Old Street, Shifen Lantern, Shifen Waterfalls. Our comprehensive review on this day tour package from KKday to be posted soon. Book here.
This is the tour I’d really like to experience but due to the lack of time, we weren’t able to do this. I wish we could go back soon and experience the Northeast Coast of Taiwan. I’d like you to avail this for a different Taiwan experience. Book here.
We availed of this for a hassle-free experience. It comes with tickets to the National Palace Museumand entrance tickets to Taipei 101 Observation Deck. See Taipei’s history and the whole city in a bird’s eye view. Our comprehensive review and experience to be posted soon. Book here. Taipei Provincial City God Temple
We availed the 5 Days Unlimited Data SIM Card for Taiwan via the Pinoy Traveler’s Unlimited Sim Card. Read our review and why we love this particular product sold in the Philippines. As a digital nomad, being connected all the time is my number one priority. REVIEW and HOW TO AVAIL. Alternatively, you may opt to choose a WiFi device rental via Klook or KKday.
After our days of short exploration in Sapporo, it’s finally our time to find better snow and stay at a greater place while in Hokkaido. Niseko has always been on our list since we started receiving newsletters when there was a contest online that we joined in and each letter from Niseko Tourism was just really exciting and in this journey, we will be staying at Nest at the Trees.
Of course, we searched Nest at the Trees online to see what we can find and what is in there and by that notion, we got more excited. It’s our first time to see snow and to be surrounded by lots of it feels like heaven, you know, first-timers, lol. So searching for them really made our trip more exciting.
Getting to Nest at the Trees
From Sapporo, we boarded the train from Sapporo Station to Kutchan at 10:13 am. This is what’s really great about Japan. The train times and tables are always so accurate that if you missed a schedule, it’s only because of your fault, not the traffic, not the other people.
It says on the schedule that we will be arriving at around 12:15 to Kutchan station and we also have to transfer trains from Otaru Station. Kutchan Station is where Nest at the Trees will be picking us up. We arrived in Otaru Station at around 11:30-ish in the morning and transferred to Hakodate Line bound to Kutchan station.
After going off at Kutchan station, we got so excited and started taking photos of the station and the area. We are already seeing Mt. Yotei and Mt. Hirafu from the view at the station. It was so cold but the feeling was exciting. Here, we will be picked up by the Nest at the Trees team. After a few minutes and chats with Acme of the Niseko Tourism, we found Nest at the Trees van and the driver, Yama, started waving at us, the guests of their hotel.
Before heading to Nest at the Trees hotel, Yama, who is really good at his job, took us on a short tour of the village, what to see, and where to go. He even took us to the foot of the Grand Hirafu, a mountain that is home to the best skiing places in the world. He also gave us time to take a look around the area. It was really awesome seeing Mt. Yotei in full form and clear skies, that Yama even said, “Mt. Yotei is the Mt. Fuji of Hokkaido.” which holds to be true.
Nest at the Trees: The Experience and Review
After our short tour at the foot of Grand Hirafu courtesy of Yama, we were escorted to our hotel where we will stay while in Niseko, Nest at The Trees. It is a hotel situated at the main road between Hirafu and Niseko Village, and only about five (5) minutes drive from Grand Hirafu and fifteen minutes drive from Kutchan Station.
Our check-in experience was quick, didn’t take long. The front desk officers are great and they speak really good English so we didn’t have any problems with communication. They asked for a copy of our passport, gave us our keycards, and that’s it. We were then escorted to our room, a One (1) Bedroom apartment.
One Bedroom Apartment at Nest at The Trees
The apartments in four lodges are connected to one another and ours is located on the third lodge with the trees view. It’s a 37 sqm room, large enough to keep a company of four, and we are only two so there are more spaces for us.
Our apartment is a mix of Japanese and modern design which makes it classy and homey at the same time. Similar to a Japanese household, we have to remove our shoes upon entering. When you got in and the window blinds are open, I bet you would probably be amazed at the view from the window especially on a winter season or when there’s a good motion of falling snow. It’s just mesmerizing. Travel Wifi with Big Sky Nation
We settled our things at the cabinet by the entry and moved to see and how beautiful our room was. It has a nice couch, that transforms into a bed, fronting a 43-inch Smart TV that you can use to binge-watch movies anytime you’d like to. Adjacent to the television is also a work area with a nice lampshade. Underneath the window is a heater to keep the room warm. The sink area also has a great view of the outside environment and besides that is the in-room toilet and bathroom that has a bathtub with also a nice view of the trees. It’s best to take a bath in the morning or when there’s still sunlight since you will be able to see what’s outside unlike when you take a shower by the night where all you can see is darkness. What I loved the most was their bathroom amenities, a premium line of bath soap, shampoo, and conditioner. You also get to have a shave and shaving cream; of course, the toothbrush and toothpaste; shower caps; hair brush; vanity kit; sewing kit; and a foam cleanser (that’s really good for the skin).
In front of the toilet and bath, is our bedroom with a king-sized bed which also comes with a stunning view of the trees and the stream. You can even see the spa (onsen) from the window of our bedroom. We can stay here in this apartment all day long, but luckily, our entire stay at Niseko was a fine sunny but windy kind of days.
The entire room has designated heaters which are located in almost every window to help keep the room warm especially in the winter season. There also are two air-conditioners to manage air temperature which Jane really loves as she’s not that good at keeping herself warm during cold days.
There’s also a Nespresso Coffee Machine, which reminded me of our stay in Taiwan, a microwave oven, and the usual kitchen stuff without the knives. Every day, the room is being cleaned unless you put the ‘Do Not Disturb’ sign outside your door.
Facilities and Amenities at Nest at The Trees
Laundry
As a guest of the hotel, you could use the laundry area on the second floor of every lodge. The detergent is also included and you are free to use the machine. We tried it as we have a couple of clothes that need washing and in less than an hour, we’re done and the clothes are completely dry.
Vending Machines
Fortunately, there are vending machines in each of the lodges. So if you are willing to spend a few bucks for a drink, it’s definitely worth it!
Shuttle Service
One thing I liked about Nest at The Trees is that they are open for service to their guests. Once you are checked-in, you can also get to use their shuttle service free of charge. We were able to utilize this service since we are the only guests in the hotel at the time.
Japanese Hot Spring Baths
The last time I was able to experience an outdoor onsen during winter was our time in Kinosaki Onsen. Here at Nest at The Trees, I was able to experience it again but this time with snow grounds and snow falling. Oh, how exciting this was! I was also able to take some photos because we are the only people checked-in at the time. They have an indoor hot spring and an outdoor hot spring. When we stayed there, the indoor hot spring pool was under maintenance.
The spa (onsen) for men and women are separate but I vote that the best views are located in the men’s area. There also are soaps and shaver plus shaving cream in the room and lockers that are free to use. You will also be able to use hair dryers if you want to.
We totally loved the outdoor bath overlooking the trees and the stream covered in snow. It was a unique experience. It’s usually experienced over commercial hot springs but here at the Nest at The Trees, they have their own source of natural hot spring water. How cool is that! It’s just really better to do onsen when it’s cold so you would have a more relaxed and relieved feeling than having an onsen during the summer where it’s also hot after the dip.
The onsen is open at different times and you can see the schedules just outside the room before you go in. If you want to know more about how to use or what to do when in a Japanese Hot Spring, just follow this link.
Black Wood Grill
Black Wood Grill is an in-house restaurant located in the front area of the hotel. The primary focus of the restaurant is to cook using firewood and also through techniques of smoking to infuse flavors of traditional cooking.
We had our breakfast here at Black Wood Grill and I must say that the food is absolutely sumptuous. There are not many choices for breakfast but that also means good because you won’t have a hard time picking what would you want to eat. We always had the omelet since there’s something to its cooking. The egg is paired with other more food so it’s really tasty and it adds flavor to the dish.
Imagine sipping a cup of coffee with the overlooking the beauty of the snowfields and Mt. Yotei in the background, all you can say is that it’ll be a good day.
We stayed in Nest at The Trees for three (3) days and we regret staying too short. The kind of service that we experienced was truly outstanding and we don’t wanna leave. We should have stayed a bit longer as we really wanted to experience the snow, especially that we are almost a few minutes away only from Grand Hirafu. Grand Hirafu is where we really enjoyed the powdery snow. It was really awesome and it was a different feeling of happiness to be stepping into snow that’s more powdery and fluffy. The experience was surreal and all thanks to Niseko Tourism, Nest at The Trees, and Hanazono Niseko for all that.
Other things to Do in Niseko
While in Niseko, of course, you don’t wanna miss the powdery white snow that Niseko is known for. It’s hailed as one of the places with the best snow qualities in the world. You also don’t want to miss the snowsports like skiing, snowshoeing, snow tubing, snowboarding, and whole other more snow activities. We get to experience those as well with Hanazono Niseko. Snow Tubing at Hanazono Niseko
You can read our snow activities, skiing and snow tubing, on another post and how our experience went. It all happened on our second day of stay at Nest at The Trees.
For updates and best experience while in Niseko, we highly recommend that you download the Niseko App so you can get the latest guides and makes the best times in Niseko. Make sure to also check out Niseko Tourism website and social media channels for on-going promotions, weather updates, and everything you need to know about Niseko.
NEST AT THE TREES
259-133 Aza-Kabayama
Kutchan-cho, Abuta-gun
Hokkaido Japan 044-0078
Tel: +81 (0) 136-55-6688
Email: nestatthetrees@nestatnest.com
GPS: 43,0000,191,0000
