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Cruise Ship Jobs for Filipinos: How to Apply

By
Jane - Two Budget Travelers
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Cruise ship jobs offer exciting career opportunities, like the ability to travel and receive higher compensation. Because the job is in a unique environment, employees need adequate training to ensure maximum safety throughout the trips. 
Aside from seafarers, typical cruise ship jobs include entertainers, concierges, food and beverage staff, Messmen, cabin stewards, and security. If you are planning to apply for these positions, you need to look for licensed recruiters.

 Whether you’re just beginning your research or you’re ready to hit the high seas, here is a guide to help you find cruise ship jobs in the Philippines. Note that these jobs can take you around the world!

READ: App to Earn Money Online – Learn How to Use

Cruise Ship Jobs

Accredited Cruise Ship Manning Agencies 

Filipinos comprise the largest nationality employed by cruise lines like Royal Caribbean. About 11,000 Filipinos are part of the company, providing renowned service in the hospitality sector. 
Before you get the chance to work for international cruise lines like RCC, you can also look for local partner recruiters. 

Magsaysay Maritime Corporation

One of the renowned local recruiters is the Magsaysay Maritime Corporation. The company provides access to the best available jobs for the maritime industry. It is an accredited recruitment agency of Princess Cruises, Arcadia Shipmanagement, Ariston Navigation Corporation, Costa Cruises, Star Cruises, and more. 
You can check their website to know available positions, or you can also drop by at the Recruitment Center in Manila to get first-hand information on job availability. 

Career Philippines Shipmanagement Inc.

It is one of the oldest Shipmanagement companies in the Philippines, responsible for deploying more than 8,000 men and women in 300 ocean vessels. The company has a rigid selection process and provides comprehensive in-house training to meet international standards. 
The Career Philippines Shipmanagement has two major offices in Pasay, Metro Manila. Available jobs under the company are also posted online at Seamanjobsite.com. 

Jebsens Maritime Inc. 

The company is a joint enterprise of Aboitiz Group of the Philippines and Jebsens Group of Norway. It provides competitive Filipino cruise ship crews for ship management, transport solutions, and more. 
Currently, Jebsens Maritime Inc. recruits Filipinos for cargo-passenger, cruise ships, yacht, and ferry vessels. The recruitment office is located at Railroad Delgado Streets, South Harbor, Manila, Philippines.

READ: Online Data Entry Jobs Hiring – How To Apply?

Cruise Ship Job Requirements


Different recruitment companies have distinct qualifications and requirements asked of potential employees. Basic requirements include being at least 21 years old, holding a valid passport, and having a license.  
The STCW95 certification is a license, which is needed for applying in international ships or yachts. Before you can take this basic training, you need to complete a 7-day course covering Sea Survival Techniques, Personal Safety, and Social Responsibility, First Aid, and Fire Fighting and Fire Prevention. You can enroll in accredited maritime training institutions to get a license and certification. The basic seaman training costs around Php4,500 or more, depending on the school or scope of the program. 
To work abroad, requirements include the following.

  • Passport
  • Seaman Book
  • BST or STCW 95 Certificate

There is also a Pre-Employment Medical Examination comprising of 24 tests. Once the results show you are fit for seafarer jobs, you will be issued a Fit For Sea Duty Certificate. This is part of the requirements to apply for international cruise lines. 
For those who will apply for other positions such as cooks and food service crew, additional requirements are provided by the recruitment agency. Normally, you need to have at least two years of experience in the foodservice industry. 
Nurse and medical practitioners also have distinct requirements, including having a valid license and years of experience in the medical field. Some cruise lines require a minimum of three years of experience in the emergency or acute care department. 

How to Apply for Cruise Ship Jobs

To apply for cruise ship jobs, you need to contact accredited seafarer recruitment agencies. You can directly visit the recruitment centers to find out additional requirements. Once you have all the requirements, you need to submit documents to the agency and wait for additional instructions. 
Once you are employed, you need to register to Philippine Overseas Employment Authority or POEA to become an official and registered Filipino Seaman. 

Conclusion

Working on a cruise ship is both rewarding and memorable. You can enjoy free boarding, meals and travel while earning a good salary. Follow this guide to land a job in an international cruise line. For more information, you can visit the website of recruitment agencies. 

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Mountain Lake Resort: A Hidden Gem in Cavinti, Laguna

By
Jerny - Two Budget Travelers
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Summer will not be complete without going to a place somewhere new. Whilst it’s really so hot in Metro Manila especially this time of the year, CALABARZON has been a great location to unwind with the summer heat. A few weeks ago, we were able to enjoy activities in Laguna, and guess where we did all the fun and activities? Yes, it’s Mountain Lake Resort in Cavinti, Laguna, just a quick 3-4 hours away from Manila. It’s also close to where we stayed previously, Sundang Island.

Mountain Lake Resort

mountain-lake-resort-a-hidden-gem-in-cavinti-laguna
“Where nature meets adventure”. A slogan that is living up to its name, Mountain Lake Resort is where you can find the best of what nature has to offer, and adventures where you can spend a whole day doing fun and totally awesome activities. Located in the mountainous area in Cavinti, Laguna, Mountain Lake Resort is like a hidden paradise.
The resort is nestled beside the Lake Caliraya, overlooking the majestic view of Mount Banahaw in Quezon, Province perfectly blended with nature and adventure with tropical accommodations and fun-filled activities for young ages and young at heart.
mountain-lake-resort-a-hidden-gem-in-cavinti-laguna

What to do in Mountain Lake Resort

If your team or company is looking for a wonderful place to spend and waste energy via fun-filled adventures, this resort will definitely fulfill your ideal getaway.

Activities include:

  1. Lake Cruise – you will be taking a cruise ride to explore the whole area of Caliraya Lake where you can see various man-made islands, properties, and other resorts in the area.
  2. Kayaking – Another fun adventure with a buddy or even solo. Take on a ride to go island hopping by yourself.
  3. Zipline – a short zipline course will help you jumpstart your adrenaline for the other activities. Very fun to do, I actually did this 3 times.
    mountain-lake-resort-a-hidden-gem-in-cavinti-laguna
  4. Hanging Bridge – If you’re a motion sick person, this will help you overcome that fear!
    mountain-lake-resort-a-hidden-gem-in-cavinti-laguna
  5. Biking – Just one nice activity to do when it’s early morning or late afternoon.
    mountain-lake-resort-a-hidden-gem-in-cavinti-laguna
  6. Swan Boat – If you want to paddle with your loved one, then this activity is for you. You can be with friends too!
    mountain-lake-resort-a-hidden-gem-in-cavinti-laguna
  7. ATV Ride – Crash through the terrain and conquer the mud, ATV ride is for those adrenaline junkies looking for great adventure!
  8. Duck Feeding – Keep yourself occupied while feeding the ducks. It’s a great way to relax and calm your nerves while watching them eat.
  9. Bubble Soccer – This is really a fun game. You and your opponent have to bump one another to score, you should try it!
    Photo by Mountain Lake Resort
  10. Jetski – If you are feeling like an action star, try out the jet ski and explore nearby manmade islands!
    mountain-lake-resort-a-hidden-gem-in-cavinti-laguna
  11. Banana Boat – One of the crowd favorite! Keep yourselves from being drifted away from the Banana Boat!
    mountain-lake-resort-a-hidden-gem-in-cavinti-laguna
  12. Fishing – An activity that requires a lot of patience. If you want to spend time alone, this is a great activity!
    mountain-lake-resort-a-hidden-gem-in-cavinti-laguna
  13. Kalesa Ride – Feel like you are in ancient times while riding the kalesa!
  14. Golf – Game of the Riches. You can play golf in Mountain Lake Resort too!
  15. Astrocamp – Best time to see the stars and gaze at them during the witching hour, 3 am.
    Mountain Lake Resort Astrocamp
    Photo via Mountain Lake Resort
  16. Lake Fishing – Go try lake fishing and cook those you caught!
  17. Horseback Riding – Great activity when you want to explore the resort.
  18. Bonfire – Bond with your friends with the marshmallows and hotdogs under the moon.
  19. Swimming Pool – Too hot for the day? Cooldown while taking a dip at the swimming pool!
    mountain-lake-resort-a-hidden-gem-in-cavinti-laguna
  20. Obstacle Course – Your team building activity buddies will definitely love this! It’s tiring but it releases the competitiveness in you!

Obstacle Courses include:

The video will be posted soon:

  1. Slide and Drop
  2. Wall climb and slide
  3. Tire Challenge
  4. Cable Balance
  5. Karate Kid
  6. Tarzan Swing
  7. Military Crawl
  8. Log Crossing
  9. Horse Back Riding
  10. Palo Sebo

mountain-lake-resort-a-hidden-gem-in-cavinti-laguna

Eco Obstacle Course:

  1. Finding Nemo – You will have to use your mind and body in order to catch the fish.
  2. Release the Fish
  3. Tree Planting
  4. Save the Animal (Pig)
  5. Save the Animal (Bird)
  6. Kayak Race

Accommodations | Where to stay in Mountain Lake Resort

The resort offers great options for accommodation and they can cater to large groups which are truly perfect when you are after the bonding times with your colleagues. For this trip, we stayed at the Boat House.

Boat House


The Boat House is an air-conditioned, floating accommodation that lies in the fishing village. It can accommodate up to 4 people and feels like a hotel room.
It comes with a 32 inches Cable TV, a queen-sized bed, a refrigerator and mini bar in-room, hairdryer and slippers, and a balcony. The Boat House has separate outdoor bathroom and toilet with hot and cold shower.
Though it’s a floating accommodation, you wouldn’t feel you are being drifted away from the shore as the rooms are tied to each other and at the other end of the shore. You also won’t be feeling dizzy as the boathouse is stable and only feels like a flat surface.
What I loved also about the room is the air-conditioning. I never thought they would add such an amenity in a floating cottage so it’s definitely a huge plus considering how hot it is outside. The balcony was also huge enough and a great place to relax, sit back and unwind to free yourself from stress and just listen to the chirping of birds and the calm waves of the water around you.
The television is also a great plus to release boredom but there are plenty of activities to be experienced in Mountain Lake Resort for you not to miss out. You may want to bring your own movies though.
As for the mobile reception, there’s an acceptable 3G connection in the area.

YOU MAY BOOK ACCOMMODATION HERE

mountain-lake-resort-a-hidden-gem-in-cavinti-laguna

Other accommodation options at Mountain Lake Resort:

AMIHAN SMALL COTTAGE (4-6 PAX)
AMIHAN BIG COTTAGE ( 8-10 PAX PER ROOM )
AMIHAN VIP COTTAGE (4-5 PAX)
GLAMPING TENT (TWIN SHARING)
GLAMPING TENT (QUAD SHARING)

Clubhouse Rooms:

STANDARD ROOM
DELUXE ROOM
SUPERIOR ROOM
FAMILY ROOM
Rates and other information are available on their website – CLICK HERE.

BOOK ROOMS VIA AGODA

mountain-lake-resort-a-hidden-gem-in-cavinti-laguna

HOW TO GET TO MOUNTAIN LAKE RESORT

By Private Vehicle:

Option 1 – Through South Expressway

Take the South Expressway all the way to Calamba Exit. At Calamba Crossing (SM Calamba), turn right. Straight ahead using the highway passing towns of Los Banos, Bay, Vistoria, Pila, Sta Cruz, and Pagsanjan.

After passing the Pagsanjan Archway, you will see a T road at the end of which is a Catholic church. On the T road, turn left to Lumban, then drive for 4 km, then you will see a Y road, take the right. Drive the 6 km ascent, then you will see Caliraya Recreation Center. Approximately 5 kms further, on the left side is the entrance to Caliraya Springs Golf and Mountain Lake Resort.

Option 2 – Through Rizal

From EDSA take Ortigas Avenue and turn right at the first intersection after the Cainta junction towards Taytay. Following the main highway bound for Laguna, pass through the eight municipalities of Rizal. Make a U-turn at Barangay Bagong Silang, Lumban to start ascending to Caliraya Lake.

By Public Transport:

Option 1 – From Cubao

From the Cubao Bus Terminal, take a bus bound for Pagsawitan or Sta. Cruz. This ride will take you about 2-4 hours travel time. Upon reaching Pagsawitan terminal, take a tricycle or a jeepney with the signboard “Lumot”. This ride will go up using Lumban-Caliraya-Cavinti Road, pass by Caliraya Recreational Resort/Caliraya Resort Club, Inc., Lagos Del Sol Resort then after you will see Entrance gate of Caliraya Springs Golf and Mountain Lake Resort.

Option 2 – From Metro Manila Bus Stations

Take a ride at the Sta Cruz-bound bus of HM Transit on EDSA Cubao or Green Star on LRT/Taft Avenue. This ride will take you about 2-3 hours travel time. Upon reaching Pagsawitan terminal, take a tricycle or a jeepney with the signboard “Lumot”. This ride will go up using Lumban-Caliraya-Cavinti Road, pass by Caliraya Recreational Resort/Caliraya Resort Club, Inc., Lagos Del Sol Resort then after you will see Entrance gate of Caliraya Springs Golf and Mountain Lake Resort.

CONTACT:

Mountain Lake Resort

Address: Brgy. East Talaongan, Cavinti, Laguna, Philippines 4013
Tel: +632 7230781 local 120 & 121. Direct # 02-257-2244
Fax: +632 7443875
Email: inquiry@mountainlake.ph
Website: http://mountainlake.ph
BOOK THRU AGODA

 

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10 Quick Getaways Near Metro Manila You Shouldn’t Miss
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How To Get Tested For Flu And Viruses Overseas

By
Jerny - Two Budget Travelers
-

Flu and virus season can sweep over countries very quickly. Because of this, many individuals want to take extra precautions not only to safeguard their health and wellness but also the health of those around them. One of the best ways to combat these illnesses is by undergoing a test.

While a test for the flu and other viruses may be relatively simple in your home country, this may not be the case when you’re overseas. At some point, you may find yourself in a new country with healthcare systems you’re unfamiliar with.

Are you sick with symptoms of the flu? Are you worrying that you have caught a virus on your trip? We’re here to let you know how to get a test for cases of flu and viruses overseas. Read on to know more.

et Tested for Flus and Viruses Overseas

Signs And Symptoms You Need To Pay Attention To

If you’re looking this up, chances are you’re already worried about having caught a bug, being sick, or simply planning on how to navigate the healthcare landscape. To know if you have the flu and other similar viruses, some telltale signs are . following

  • Fever
  • Cough and sore throat
  • Runny or stuffy nose
  • Body aches
  • Headaches or migraines
  • Chills
  • Fatigue

Though these are the most common signs, other individuals may also sometimes suffer from diarrhea and vomiting. Other people may also exhibit respiratory symptoms without having a fever.

Types Of Flu And Virus Testing

In order to ascertain that you have the flu or particular virus while you’re overseas, laboratory tests are required. To detect the influenza virus responsible for this, there are two possible ways of testing.

The virus testing normally used by medical professionals is by molecular assays. The other more common examination is called the antigen detection test, which includes rapid influenza diagnostic tests (RIDTs). Although both of these rely on culturing viral bacteria, results from the approaches vary.

In light of this, the Infectious Diseases Society of America urges the use of rapid influenza molecular assays over RIDTs as these can produce more accurate results. These can also provide speedy results within 15 to 20 minutes of testing.

What Happens During A Flu And Virus Test

No matter what testing approach is taken, the patient in question needs to undergo a swab test. Here, the medical personnel in charge will administer a throat swab or swipe the inside of your nose prior to sending the specimen in for testing.

Depending on the context and if a respiratory illness outbreak occurs due to a virus, testing for these illnesses can be done to gauge the cause of the outbreak.

Here, viral culture, diagnostic tests, rapid antigen testing, serology, and transcription-polymerase chain reaction can be used as testing methods.

Other testing approaches used for outbreaks in a closed setting, usually overseas, such as a cruise ship, a flight, hospitals, long-term care facilities, summer camp, school, and the like, are immunofluorescence assays and rapid molecular assays.

These approaches can take anywhere from 3 to 10 days, while others show results within 80 minutes.

How To Get Tested For The Flu And Viruses

If you have symptoms of the flu and other similar viruses and you want to undergo a test overseas, it’s best to call the local health department in the area.

In the event that you do not have access to local authorities, immediately inform the management in the area such as the head of the cruise ship or the manager in your hotel accommodation.

Should you have comprehensive insurance coverage, you can simply ask your health care provider of they honor your insurance. If they do, they can help set you up for flu and virus testing overseas without you incurring additional charges. Before anything, make sure to call your insurance company.

Last but not least, you can easily consult with a doctor in the area to see if you can come in for a test, rather than directly going to the emergency room. Another worthy alternative is calling the local health department as they normally provide tests for free.

test for flu

The Bottom Line

It’s always great to stay on top of your well-being. By knowing where and how to get a test for cases of flu and viruses overseas, you can take the necessary measures to ensure your optimal health while traveling.

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Things to Consider When Buying an RV Converter

By
Jerny - Two Budget Travelers
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Your RV power converter might not be something you think about much, but it’s an essential part of keeping everything in your RV running.
If you want to be able to use all the electrical appliances and devices onboard, you’ll need to make sure you have a suitable converter installed. There are some important things to consider before you purchase a new power converter for your RV.
Keep these tips in mind before you buy one to make sure you get the best one possible.

How RV Converters Work

RV converters transform the alternating current (AC) power from a typical public electrical grid or campground power source to the direct current (DC) power of your battery. Many RVs require both types of power to run everything on board. Larger appliances tend to need DC power, while smaller ones will require AC. Some converters will also store AC power for anything that runs on that type of electricity instead. It’s important to have a good converter to make sure everything in your RV is running at peak efficiency.

The Type of Converter You Need

There are two types of converters: High output converters and smart converters. Selecting which one is best for you depends on what you need out of it. When deciding between these two types of power converters, consider what kind of appliances and devices you have in your RV. You should also consider the overall size of your RV as larger ones will require more amps to keep everything running.

High Output Converter

These are the best choice if you have a lot of large appliances that require large amounts of power to run. If you have a refrigerator, freezer, microwave, air conditioner, or television, you’ll be consuming significant amounts of electricity, so a high output converter is a necessity. If you have a larger RV, you’ll probably want one of these.

Smart Converter

Also known as a multistage converter, these will power your battery in stages to avoid overcharging it. This is better when you have smaller appliances or sensitive electronic devices that could be damaged if too much power is supplied to them. Things like laptops, smartphones, lights, fans, or pumps would benefit from a smart converter. Smaller RVs can easily run comfortably with this type.

How Much Power Your RV Requires

Calculate the amount of power your RV will need by determining how many amps your appliances and devices require to run. You can do this by checking the sticker or small metal plate on them. To find the amperage they’ll need, divide the watts by volts (W/V=A). Don’t forget to add the number of amps your battery requires, too.

Price of the Converter

Compare first the prices of potential choices to get a rough idea about how much the average one costs. If you are willing to spend more, you can get a higher quality converter with better features. There are also cheaper ones, but they are usually less reliable and have more downsides. Things like weight, fan noise, wiring, and additional safety options might not be available on these cheaper options.

READ: Take 5 – Some great Christmas gift ideas for travelers

How Easy It Is To Install

You don’t want to buy a converter that has a complicated installation process. Consult the manufacturer’s instructions to determine how difficult connecting it to your RV will be. If it has a built-in cooling system, you’ll need to make sure you can install it somewhere that won’t obstruct the airflow. Check to see if you can hook up the wiring in series or parallel. Depending on how your RV is set up, you might require the wiring to be one or the other, and not all converters can be connected using both methods.

Size and Safety Features

Although most converters are relatively small, the exact size and weight can vary. If you have limited space, you’ll need to measure it to make sure the one you buy can fit. It’s also important that any converter you choose to have safety features to protect your RV from shocks or fires. At the very least, it should have thermal and overheating safeguards. If you can find one that also offers protection from overloading or polarity reversal, that would be even better.
 
Keep these tips in mind when buying your RV converter to get the best one possible for your needs. You want to be able to spend your time enjoying everything your RV has to offer, not constantly troubleshooting power and electrical issues that could arise due to a substandard converter. Once you’ve found the right option, it won’t be long before you’re on your way to getting the most out of the RV lifestyle.

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Kinkaku-ji Temple : A Must Visit in Kyoto

By
Jerny - Two Budget Travelers
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Kinkaku-ji Temple (“Golden Pavillion) is a Zen Buddhist Temple located in Kyoto, Japan. It is designated as a National Special Historic Site and a National Special Landscape, and it is one of 17 locations making up the Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto which are World Heritage Sites.

Kinkakuji Temple - www.twobudgettravelers.com

Only a few hours remaining until our flight back to Manila. We rushed ourselves early in the morning to make sure we’re gonna be able to see and check out Kinkaku-ji Temple. Coming from Ginkaku-ji Michi, it’s a long drive and ride. We are unsure of the place and so we have to ask our host about the exact directions.

From Ginkaku-ji Michi, we need a single bus ride in order to get to Kinkaku-ji Temple. If you have a map of Kyoto, it’s easier to navigate that, if you do not know how to navigate the map, you can ask me to teach you a little about how to navigate the Kyoto map, what bus number is to ride on, and other things  as well (I only got the knowledge from Rio, our host). We’re heading to one of the most visited temples in Kyoto.

Important Facts for Visitors

Kinkakuji Temple - www.twobudgettravelers.com

Kinkaku-ji Temple is open from 9am to 5pm. Entrance fee is 400 Yen each. From Ginkaku-ji Michi, ride bus no. 205 to get to Kinkaku-ji. Travel time will roughly take 40-45 minutes depending on the speed and traffic levels of the road. The temple is open every day. This temple is quite over-crowded as this is one of the “apple of the eye” temples in Kyoto.

Back to the story…

When we got there, with our luggage and backpacks on, we were a bit surprised by how many people are entering the temple’s entrance. It took us about 5 minutes to get our entrance tickets because there was a line. We’ve also seen a Filipino family and heard them talking but we didn’t have the chance to chat and or take a picture with them.

Once you got inside the temple, you’ll surely be amazed by how the garden and the structure was made. According to the history books, Kinkaku-ji temple had been burned down several times, and latest that we see now was the creation from 1955.

Kinkakuji Temple - www.twobudgettravelers.com

Kinkakuji was built to echo the extravagant Kitayama culture that developed in the wealthy aristocratic circles of Kyoto during Yoshimitsu’s times. Each floor represents a different style of architecture.

After viewing Kinkakuji from across the pond, visitors pass by the head priest’s former living quarters (hojo) which are known for their painted sliding doors (fusuma), but are not open to the public.

It is also said that the zen garden covering the golden land was untouched (except for the new plants, of course). Imagine, those trees around it are actually more than 50 years old.

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Kinkakuji Temple - www.twobudgettravelers.com
Kinkakuji Temple - www.twobudgettravelers.com

After lurking around inside the Kinkaku-ji Temple vicinity, we decided to stay for a little while for more photo ops and to see what’s on the other side of it. There’s a little park where you can eat your packed lunch. Some people and most families visiting here are not just for show but for to immerse in nature as well. Eating with your family in a Zen garden, under the trees beside a golden beautiful temple, ah! What a view!

Heading Outside…

Outside the temple near the exit are a chain of stores for your souvenirs and or eating pleasure. Hey guys, FREE TASTE! YUM! Yes, they offer a free taste of their products, and you can eat each flavour. It made our starving stomachs, slightly full.

Kinkakuji Temple - www.twobudgettravelers.com

And oh, sometimes there are monks inside the temple and outside as well. Here’s a photo of a monk taken by Kim. They are just going to stand silently, not making any noise or any movements, maybe are asking for donations, but I am not sure. Utmost respect to them!

Kinkakuji Temple - www.twobudgettravelers.com

Never forget to visit this temple in Japan!

Useful Links:
Our Itinerary for 5D4N in Japan
Where we Stayed in Japan
Authentic Onsen Experience

Book with us using the search below!

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What Can an Ordinary Person Learn from a Barista

By
Jerny - Two Budget Travelers
-

The Coffee Movement PH sent out an invite and I got a slot. Together with other bloggers, influencers, and consumers, we went on sessions for coffee cupping and coffee brewing. coffee making

Coffee Brewing and Cupping - www.twobudgettravelers.com

TCMP was created with the aim of –

  • Introducing third wave/specialty coffee to more Filipinos, elevating their coffee experience.
  • Promoting local roasters and local third wave/specialty coffee houses, and
  • Building a community of producers and caffeine lovers where everyone can learn and enjoy coffee, not just as a drink, but a delighting component of their everyday life.

TCMP is a community-building initiative that creates an avenue where specialty coffee producers, sellers, and enthusiasts can interact, learn, and collaborate. It organizes various activities such as Coffee Crawl, Coffee Discovery, Coffee and Art, and a lot more. coffee making

Bean & Yolk – Coffee Brewing Session

We went first to Bean and Yolk. The coffee shop is located at Unit G6 Bel Air Soho Suites St., Polaris, Makati, 1210 Metro Manila. A small but cool place for coffee enthusiasts. The shop specializes in specialty coffee and eggs, hence, Bean from coffee bean and Yolk from egg yolk. You may check their menu here.

Michael, their barista, helped us in expanding our knowledge about coffee beans and what about specialty coffee is. There are 3 cultivated types of coffee beans. The  1. Coffee Arabica; 2. Coffee Robusta and; 3. Coffee Liberica. coffee making

Coffee Arabica is mostly sold through specialty coffee shops. Coffee Robusta is the one you always had in instant coffees and has higher caffeine content. Coffee Liberia only makes up about 3% of the world’s coffee grade population.

When you grind your coffee beans, there will be 3 types as well. The coarse grind, medium grind, and fine grind.  Coarse grind is mostly used in French pressed coffees. Medium grind is commonly used in drip brewing style. Fine-grinded beans are usually used on your espresso.

Pour-Over Method for your Medium Ground Coffee

Michael showed us the proper style in making a medium-grind pour-over coffee brew lovelier. The medium coffee grounds needed to be consumed within the first 10-15mins in order to save the flavor. Bring hot water to a boil. Use 30 grams of coffee for 350 grams of water.

Place your coffee filter on the dripper. It’s advisable to wet it out first before putting coffee grounds in. Do not forget to dump the water before starting brewing! coffee making

Place your coffee filter on the dripper. It’s advisable to wet it out first before putting coffee grounds in. Do not forget to dump the water before starting brewing!

Add the coffee grounds to the filter and gently rap it to even out the surface of the grounds.

Starting from the center, pour the hot water slowly over the coffee, spiral to the outer edge and back to the center again. Repeat four times with 30 seconds interval every time. The goal during this pour is to sink all of the grounds on the surface of the bed. coffee making

Once done, your coffee is now ready to be served. From the dripper cup, pour your coffee into your favorite coffee cup. You do not need to add your sugar and creamer (as advised by most baristas) so you can have your coffee served at best. After all, you asked for a brewed coffee, right?

Commune Cafe+Bar – Coffee Cupping Session

Commune Cafe+Bar is located in 36 Polaris, Makati, Metro Manila. They proudly serve all Filipino made coffee beans. You may check their lovely menu in here.

In this cafe, we were taught about coffee cupping or coffee tasting. Coffee cupping is the practice of observing the taste and aroma of a brewed coffee. This is a professional practice that can be done by practically anyone or by professionals as well.

In Commune, we were asked to practice cupping. Yes, we’re beginners with this method but we surely enjoyed the session we had headed by Ros Juan. She’s a magnificent instructor. coffee making

Cupping involves deeply sniffing the coffee for its aroma, loudly slurping the coffee so it spreads to the back of the tongue. The taster attempts to determine the taste, the body (or texture), the flavor, and the aftertaste.

We had cupped 5 types of coffee beans harvested from around the Philippines. First off with the aroma, some smelled sweet, some smelled strong, some smelled like a chocolate, some smelled lighter than the others. Next is the tasting, as mentioned earlier, you have to slurp the coffee fast and loud to the back of your tongue to better determine the taste, texture, flavor, and the aftertaste of the coffee. Every coffee bean is different. Different taste, different aroma, different sensation. I liked most was the one with the strongest aroma, while the others didn’t like it at all. They were saying that the beans were smelling like a urinal. But it’s my best bet. Who cares? Lol. coffee making

Coffee Crawl PH

Coffee crawls are being organized in a lot of countries all over the world. In the Philippines, however, there is no known organized coffee crawl activities or events. As such, TCMP started Coffee Crawl PH, an open activity that gives attendees a glimpse of what third wave/specialty coffee is all about. It involves the introduction of third wave/specialty coffee, brewing demonstrations, cuppings – all while meeting new friends and discovering new coffee houses. coffee making

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Online Virtual Assistant Jobs Hiring – How To Apply?

By
Jerny - Two Budget Travelers
-

Businesses have to keep up with the evolving demands of the public. There are numerous tasks entrepreneurs face each day. They might find this constant need to keep up with the demands of the market to be quite suffocating.

Thankfully, with online virtual assistants, businesses can now ditch the hassle of having to carry the weight of their entire operation. By hiring these professionals, entrepreneurs can get more work done.

If you want to take on a virtual assistant role, knowing where and how to apply is the first step to achieving your goal. So, here is a brief introduction to online virtual assistant jobs and how you can apply.

online virtual assistant

What Are Online Virtual Assistant Jobs?

In its simplest definition, an online virtual assistant refers to a remote employee or those who provide administrative services to businesses from remote locations.

Essentially, the duties and responsibilities of virtual assistants are as diverse as the needs of modern businesses.

From helping with customer support and managing business websites to bookkeeping and project management to content creation for blogs and pages, there is a ton of work that is done by these professionals.

Perks Of Becoming An Online Virtual Assistant

Generally, there are many perks that come from working as an online virtual assistant. Perhaps, among the biggest advantages associated with this profession include the following.

  • Flexibility

Not fond of the usual office-based setup? Want to skip the hassles of working with the crowd? By becoming an online virtual assistant, you can ditch all these problems while earning income.

Since virtual assistants work remotely, they have the privilege to work right from the comfort of their homes. As a result, they have more control over their working hours, work locations, and even acquaintances.

  • Favorable Rates

Another perk that comes with working as a VA is that you have the power to set your own rates. Compared to working as a full-time, regular employee, this will enable you to dictate how much you should ask from your clients per project.

In most cases, you can even have the convenience of setting your own terms, the number of work to be done, time of submission, etc.

  • Ability To Make Choices

Since the roles of a virtual assistant are pretty broad and diverse, you can have the opportunity to choose what you are going to specialize.

In turn, you won’t just be able to earn income but you will also be given the chance to practice your passion. That is why a virtual assistant psoition is one of the best jobs you could consider.

How To Apply For Online Virtual Assistant Jobs?

Fortunately, applying for online virtual assistant jobs is pretty simple. In fact, you will never run out of companies to choose from as VAs are now being treated as valuable parts of any business.

Here, we have rounded up the most effective ways to apply for an online virtual assistant position.

  • Look For Available VA Job Openings Online

The first thing you must do is identify the available job opportunities. You can do this by researching online or by turning to job employments sites such as Jobstreet, Indeed, CareerBuilder, and LinkedIn.

  • Spot The Positions That Match Your Qualifications

Once you’ve been provided with a list of available VA job openings, the next thing you need to do is to identify which among these match your skills and interests.

Read the provided job descriptions. If possible, reach out to the employers to find out more about the position.

  • Apply For A Job

After determining which openings fit your credentials, you can now apply. If you’re using online job opportunities site, like Indeed, simply create an account and upload your resume.

Once you’ve set up an interesting profile, you can click on the “Apply Now” button below the job position you are targeting.

You can also visit your dream companies directly and contact them to know how you can apply to become an online virtual assistant.

Online Virtual Assistant Jobs Hiring

The Bottom Line

Serious about becoming an online virtual assistant? Whether you’re good at web design, content writing, or even bookkeeping, there will always be job for you.

Become a remote employee as early as today. Apply to your dream companies now!

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F1 Hotel Manila: Spending the Weekend + Hotel Review

By
Jerny - Two Budget Travelers
-

A week after spending my birthday on an island we rented off Airbnb, we had the chance to stay at one of the grandest and best hotels in Bonifacio Global City, F1 Hotel Manila.
F1 Hotel Manila is the very first hotel that has situated in BGC which caters both leisure and business travelers. Strategically located in the heart of the city, this hotel is your best option when looking for a great place to stay. f1 hotel review

The Experience at F1 Hotel


The supposedly 2 pm check-in was delayed for like 2 hours due to me coming from the south and was not expecting a heavy traffic but I was totally wrong because it was a Friday. Plus, I got a little lost while looking for the entrance of the hotel. The hotel’s entrance was located on the back side of a store that’s fronting the main road. 

Check-In 


The check-in was a breeze. Upon entering the entrance to the hotel, the concierge personnel was talking to each other but when they saw a guest coming in, they immediately put their attention to the guest, and I like that kind of courtesy. I asked if there is a reservation for me, they looked it up, asked for my ID and confirmed that there was a room waiting for me for 2 nights, then told me that the hotel lobby is located on the 5th floor.  f1 hotel review
The hotel lobby looks grand with it being on a floor where you can totally see the bird’s eye view of a part of a city by their glass panels. The lights are totally complimenting to the metallic chrome design of the fixtures and decorations. 
The first thing you will see is the table of the duty manager that if not busy, will greet you with delight. I then proceeded to the front desk officer and asked for my reservation. After giving them my ID and confirmed my room, they have given me my key card and the WiFi password (a customized one). It only took me less than 10 mins from the concierge to the room, a record holder for all our hotel staycation check-ins. 

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The Fort Suite

Upon receiving our key card, I proceeded to our room. Jane wasn’t with me when I checked in but it was totally cool. I had the time to savor the room aesthetics and check all the things that were there myself. She will be with me before the day ends.  f1 hotel review
The room, upon entrance, had an abstract painting, but it was the only painting in the living area. The area comes with posh sofa set, a smart TV, a desktop for work, refrigerator, and welcome drinks. There are also plenty of spaces to be used for storage and keep. The living area of our room has okay city views, not to good, mainly because it was facing a roof, but that was no biggie.

A Fort Suite bedroom comes with a king-sized bed with a smart TV. The closet has two bathrobes, plenty of hangers, a safety box, an ironing board, and a flat iron — which is more convenient as you don’t have to request for that particular equipment. It also has JBL speakers that could be used at your own convenience to play music to lighten up the silence. 

Its comfort room was inviting as well. There comes with towels, the premium toiletries for your hygiene, a hot and cold shower, and a hairdryer. Everything was convenient because you don’t have to call and ask for such items to be delivered to your room.

 Amenities and Facilities at F1 Hotel Manila

One thing I totally love about hotels is their swimming pools and I’m always checking out how one is different with one another. 

Swimming Pools

In F1 Hotel, there are three swimming pools and all of which are child-friendly. All pools are illuminated at night that makes it more inviting. However, the water is cold and is more advisable (in my opinion) for a day swim. The lap-pool is only 4.5 feet, perfect if you want to take laps. f1 hotel review

Canary Lounge


On our visit, there is a glamping movie area on the poolside called Canary Lounge. It looks cute and welcoming. Each corner I bet was instagramable and picture-worthy. During the night at I think 7 pm onwards when the sky is dark, they are playing movies where everyone can watch. The outdoor movie is a must-experience! 

Gym Facility

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For everyone who is checked-in, they have access to the gym area but you must have your keycard to enter. The gym is operational for 24 hours. f1 hotel review

F All Day Dining Restaurant

F All Day Dining is F1 Hotel’s restaurant. This is where we took our buffet breakfast and every meal was sumptuous. It serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner with a wide variety of dishes to choose from. The restaurant is open from 06:00 am to 10:00 pm.  f1 hotel review

Spa

F1 Hotel also offers spa services. We didn’t have the chance to try their spa but I think it will be worth it. 

Why we love F1 Hotel Manila


F1 Hotel Manila deserves all the stars it can get. From the awesome service of the staffs to the facilities being top notch, everything was a bliss. There was even a plate full of cheese, best partnered with wine, and on the 2nd day, we got some sweets from them. It felt extra special. 
Since the location is close to establishments, we didn’t have any issues with food and other kinds of entertainment. We could just go out for a few hours and everything is readily available. We could just even go the Canary Lounge, have some awesome time being in the pool and have some drinks. 
We also had a pleasurable experience at the F All Day Dining for their sumptuous breakfast and meals. Every morning at F1 Hotel was extra special. Also, even with us just being inside the room while watching movies at the large TV screen while the lights are off was a great stuff. We love our whole experience at F1 Hotel! f1 hotel review

F1 Hotel Manila

Address: 32nd Street, Bonifacio Global City
Contact Number: 908.7888 / 928.98888
Email: inquiry@f1hotelsandresorts.com
Website: www.f1hotelmanila.com
Check Rates on AgodaCheck Rates on Booking.com

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How to Register for a GCash Account – See Step by Step Instructions Here

By
Jane - Two Budget Travelers
-

Digital payments are fast becoming the new normal. And, why not? It’s far more convenient, quick, and safe to make your payments digitally. However, what if digital payments are supplemented with an efficient money management mechanism, savings, and investment? 

GCash is one such amazing platform that offers you digital payment services. It’s easily one of the most unique platforms available in the Philippines. 

In this article, we share a detailed overview of GCash, and also show you the step by step instructions to get started with it. Read on to learn more about this, and how you can register.

How to Register for a GCash Account - See Step by Step Instructions Here

Lifestyle Services

GCash’s lifestyle category of services helps you with almost every kind of transaction that you need to make on a day to day basis. These include paying bills, booking movie tickets, and shopping online. 

Further, you can also send and receive money from individuals using GCash. The app also lets you buy or borrow securely. With GCash, you can do all of these transactions with a single tap, at lightning-fast speed! 

Financial Services

What sets GCash truly apart is a separate bucket of services that the app offers under the name of “Financial Services”. These services include all the banking services that an individual or business needs. 

With GCash, you can transfer funds directly to and from a bank account, without the need for a separate banking app. The app also offers a GSave feature which is the digital version of a bank savings account and yields you a high rate of interest on your money. 

Salient Features of GCash

Some of the salient features of the platform include the use of cutting edge and the latest payment technologies, and a widespread network of over the counter service points for physical payments.

Other features include a robust data security framework with several layers of security, and a clean and structured user interface for easy access to services.

How to Get Started with GCash

Now that you know the length and breadth of services offered by GCash in the Philippines, let us now tell you how you can get started with GCash.

Step 1

To register on the GCash platform, you need to visit the GCash website and click on the “Register” button provided on the top right corner. 

Alternatively, you can also start by installing the GCash mobile app from Google Play Store(if you are an android user) or App Store (if you are an iOS user). 

Step 2

Once you are on the registration page of their website or have installed the GCash app on your mobile device, you need to provide your mobile number to proceed with the registration process. 

GCash supports all networks and operators for registration on its platform. Once registered, you may need to provide some additional information to get your registration verified. 

Step 3

After completing the registration and verification process, you can start exploring benefitting from the range of features offered by the platform. The first thing can be to link your bank accounts with GCash. 

You can also deposit your hard cash into your GCash wallet by visiting any of the over the counter service points. Now you can purchase things, make payments, receive money, save, invest, and do much more, all with the GCash app. 

Rates and Fees

How to Register for a GCash Account - See Step by Step Instructions Here

In the terms and conditions of GCash, they do claim that there are fees and charges that may be applicable. Make sure to consider these rates if you are interested, and make sure to discuss these with a GCash representative before agreeing to anything.

  • Cash in via bank’s mobile banking app: Php0 to Php50
  • Cash in via Over-The-Counter outlets will have a fee once users exceed the monthly free limit of Php8,000: 2%
  • Cash out via Over-The-Counter outlets is charged with a withdrawal fee: 2% (applies only to loaded amount beyond Php8,000 monthly)
  • Cash out via ATM withdrawal fee: Php20
  • Cash out via ATM Withdrawal fee (International): Php150
  • GCash Mastercard Offline Card Purchase: Php150
  • GCash Mastercard Online Card Purchase (Php65 delivery fee): Php215
  • GCredit interest charged for the total credit purchased: 3-5%
  • GCredit penalty fee: Php200 – Php1500
  • Billers with fixed fees: Php0 to Php60
  • Billers with percentage-based fees: 2%
  • Balance Inquiry via ATM: Php3
  • Balance Inquiry via ATM (International): Php50
  • Dormancy fee: Php50

The Bottom Line

GCash is one of the best digital payments and cash management options that is available in the Philippines. Registering on GCash is easy, and it offers you a wide range of financial and lifestyle services on its single integrated platform with adequate safety features. 

Disclaimer: Using digital payment services, like GCash, are subject to the service providers’ guidelines, terms, and conditions. Consult the terms and conditions page of the service before agreeing to anything.

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Can You Enjoy a Great Sporting Break in the Rest of 2020?

By
Jerny - Two Budget Travelers
-

For many people, 2020 has been a year of staying at home far more than ever before.
With numerous sporting events cancelled or postponed due to the Covid-19 pandemic, it has also been almost impossible to catch any sports to keep us entertained.
Thankfully, there are some thrilling events due in the rest of the year that will help you get away and enjoy a sporting break if you want to. But not all of the major competitions will be accessible to fans.

Watch the Kentucky Derby

The Kentucky Derby has traditionally been one of the highlights of the American sporting year. In 2020, the lockdown and travel restrictions meant that it was moved from the usual time in May to September 5.

READ: 5 Things to Know Before You Apply for Visa Online

This is usually a huge event that attracts tens of thousands of spectators to the race and to the Festival that occurs in the two weeks before it. It isn’t yet clear whether this year’s Kentucky Derby will be on a reduced scale or not.
The action takes place at the Churchill Downs racetrack in Louisville. As well as the Derby, this city also has over 100 parks, a zoo, the Kentucky Science Center, and a selection of varied museums. If you watch it from home, you might still want to check the Kentucky Derby odds on horses on TwinSpires.com.

Catch a Golf Tournament

Golf is another sport that has had its 2020 calendar deeply affected by the health crisis. However, there are still some big events to come later this year that are well worth waiting for. As this sport is played outdoors over fairly big spaces, it has more chances of going ahead with crowds in place than some other sports.

Photo by Courtney Cook on Unsplash

From August 3 to 9, the US Women’s Amateur Golf Championship takes place in Rockville, Maryland. This is the third-oldest of all of the USGA championships, and sees golfers from all over the world take part.
As for Rockville, this is a small but interesting city that has some historic buildings sprinkled around it. The tournament is set to take place at Woodmount Country Club and it will be the 120th time this event is held.

READ: 7 Questions To Ask Yourself Before You Relocate To A New Country

The U.S. Amateur Championship is the equivalent for male golfers. It will be played between August 10 and 16 in Bandon, Oregon. This is a great spot for outdoor activities like fishing, cycling, and going to the beach.

Watch Some Tennis (On TV)

Photo by ThisisEngineering RAEng on Unsplash

Fans of tennis have the US Open to look forward to. This prestigious tournament will be held from August 31 to September 13 at Flushing Meadows, New York. There was no need to postpone this event, so it goes ahead on the originally planned date.
The same location will house the Western & Southern Open right before this happens. These two huge events are expected to be hugely popular among tennis fans around the world, but sadly they can’t visit the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center to watch the action.
The comprehensive health and safety plan for this event means that it will be played behind closed doors. However, tennis fans may be happy to just have some top-class tennis to watch on TV.

READ: 10 Places in Spain You Should Definitely Visit

Wait for News on NASCAR Events

NASCAR has recently announced its schedule for the next few months. The NASCAR CUP Series will take place at Daytona throughout August.
It has yet to be confirmed if the public will be allowed to attend the races, though. This will apparently be decided on an event by event basis, so racing fans need to wait to find out if they can plan a trip here in 2020.
Apart from NASCAR, Daytona in Florida is famous for its glorious beaches and range of family attractions. Fans of sports and of traveling will be keen to see if the public get the go-ahead to visit here for some races during the season.
 
 

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