This is something really out of the ordinary.
Imagine renewing your passport in just 15 minutes. Twilight zone huh!
Well I did it.
But prior to that, you have to make sure you made the appointment online.
You fill out the forms and print it and bring it with you on the time of the scheduled date.
I chose Robinsons Galleria because I heard from a friend that they have short queues. When I went there, there was none except for the line I think for the OFWs.
My appointment was at 11:30am but they already let me in at 11am.
First, the receptionist will verify your appointment schedule.
Then, you will be given a number to what window you'll start.
This is the window where they will check your documents.
I had some discrepancy on my marriage certificate so I had to amend it.
Good thing, you can do it right inside tha DFA.
You just have to pay the corresponding fee.
Mine is P200.
After that you submit the amendment and then you go to encoding and picture taking.
They will let you check the entry on the computer before they finalize it.
Then off you go to the courier booth.
Either you go back to pick it up or you pay to deliver it to your place.
That's it. Done in 15 minutes.
Tuesday, November 20, 2012
Wednesday, October 17, 2012
Driver's License Renewed in just less than 2 hours
You can even do that during your lunch break!
I have never been a delinquent citizen. For the past years, I have always been on time in all kinds of payment and renewals of whatever is needed to be renewed.
Imagine my surprise when just this week, I found out while having lunch with friends that I had forgotten to renew my driver's license which expired last March of this year.
I was flabbergasted. Although I really don't drive regularly I mean not everyday, I think I drove our car just this June.
Imagine if I was apprehended at that time. That would be driving with an expired license. That's so irresponsible of me.
Anyway, as soon as I found out I checked with a friend because I heard LTO has office in SM North Edsa.
Good thing they still have it there when I checked their facebook account. It's in front of Our Home besides Crave Burger.
I went there at around a quarter before 12 noon. They do have lunch breaks.
First step is you have the Drug Test and Medical first.
And you can do it there because that's just beside the LTO.
So after filling out the forms and paying it, we were asked to return at 1PM for the next step. Well that's good because we really need to eat lunch first. We tried Crave Burger just besides their office.
After lunch, we went next door for the next step.
They are very efficient there. They have what they call 4 easy steps to get the Drug Test and Medical Test.
First you fill out the forms which is many. I mean like 8 long forms. Submit and pay for it. Mine is P400.
Second you wait for the biometrics and picture-taking which includes specimen collection which we did after lunch.
Third you do the medical.
Lastly, you wait for the result.
It took me about an hour of wait.
After that, you go to the next door which is the LTO office.
Another very efficient office. They are really fast in here.
Another 4 easy steps.
First you fill out another form and then you submit the Drug and Medical results including your expired license or soon-to-be expired license.
(Please take note that they only accept renewal of license less than 2 years. If more than 2 years, you have to go to their Main office. You also go to the Main for change of status.
Second your name will be called for the picture taking and signing.
Third you pay at the Cashier. Mine is P595 (Breakdown is License Fee: P350, Penalty for Late Registration: P75, Revisions of Record: P100 (I had my address changed)
Computer Fee: P57.65. Total is P592.63.
Lastly you wait for the receipt and your driver's license.
It took me 15 minutes to do it.
Job well done to LTO SM North.
I hope all government agencies are like them.
I wouldn't mind paying extra for a service as efficient as that.
I have never been a delinquent citizen. For the past years, I have always been on time in all kinds of payment and renewals of whatever is needed to be renewed.
Imagine my surprise when just this week, I found out while having lunch with friends that I had forgotten to renew my driver's license which expired last March of this year.
I was flabbergasted. Although I really don't drive regularly I mean not everyday, I think I drove our car just this June.
Imagine if I was apprehended at that time. That would be driving with an expired license. That's so irresponsible of me.
Anyway, as soon as I found out I checked with a friend because I heard LTO has office in SM North Edsa.
Good thing they still have it there when I checked their facebook account. It's in front of Our Home besides Crave Burger.
I went there at around a quarter before 12 noon. They do have lunch breaks.
First step is you have the Drug Test and Medical first.
And you can do it there because that's just beside the LTO.
So after filling out the forms and paying it, we were asked to return at 1PM for the next step. Well that's good because we really need to eat lunch first. We tried Crave Burger just besides their office.
After lunch, we went next door for the next step.
They are very efficient there. They have what they call 4 easy steps to get the Drug Test and Medical Test.
First you fill out the forms which is many. I mean like 8 long forms. Submit and pay for it. Mine is P400.
Second you wait for the biometrics and picture-taking which includes specimen collection which we did after lunch.
Third you do the medical.
Lastly, you wait for the result.
It took me about an hour of wait.
After that, you go to the next door which is the LTO office.
Another very efficient office. They are really fast in here.
Another 4 easy steps.
First you fill out another form and then you submit the Drug and Medical results including your expired license or soon-to-be expired license.
(Please take note that they only accept renewal of license less than 2 years. If more than 2 years, you have to go to their Main office. You also go to the Main for change of status.
Second your name will be called for the picture taking and signing.
Third you pay at the Cashier. Mine is P595 (Breakdown is License Fee: P350, Penalty for Late Registration: P75, Revisions of Record: P100 (I had my address changed)
Computer Fee: P57.65. Total is P592.63.
Lastly you wait for the receipt and your driver's license.
It took me 15 minutes to do it.
Job well done to LTO SM North.
I hope all government agencies are like them.
I wouldn't mind paying extra for a service as efficient as that.
Monday, October 8, 2012
My Brazilian Waxing Experience
Today is my second waxing experience.
My first one was done at Lay Bare Scout Ybardolaza and I only have a hazy memory of it.
I had it in between lunch and I don't remember exactly what made me do it and what exactly happened.
I blame old age for easily forgetting things nowadays.
Anyway, today I had my second waxing experience. I am writing it down and now so that I won't forget again.
I had it done at Lay Bare SM Fairview.
In fairness, waxing is no longer taboo nowadays.
I was in the company of young people, old people and men while waiting for my turn.
And mind you, there's a long line waiting for their turn to get on the table and undergo pain therapy.
After a few minutes and after filling out the forms, a big-boned woman named Gie called me in.
She has to become my Brazilian waxer for the day.
I told her I'm not a virgin Brazilian babe anymore and this is my second time already.
She is kinda motherly so my nerves started to calm a bit.
As I've said, I have a hazy memory of what transpired the first time but I know it borders on pain.
Perhaps the loss of memory is for my mind to block off that painful experience I had.
Anyway, I peed and washed before the event.
Good thing their branch has their own CR or else it would be very difficult and messy to do it in a public toilet.
Knowing how public toilet looks like especially in SM malls, you would rather die than pee there.
After that, I had to strip down under and wrap myself in a towel.
When Gie entered the room I was already lying down and memorizing the scant accessory in the room.
I was also texting my husband that I'll be in a no-phone zone for a little while and I'll call him after I finished.
Gie made me feel comfortable by talking a little and asking me about myself.
Not too much though because that would be bordering on suspicious-looking-person-asking-for-information-so-that-they-can-rob-me.
She tried to make sure I'm a little comfy but not too much before she starts that first pull.
It was a knockout. I mean I had stars in my eyes. It was painful yes but it was tolerable
or I guess I had increased pain tolerance after my surgery and delivery but it was ok.
Surprisingly.
After every pull of my stubborn hair, Gie soothes it by tapping a little and letting me breathe for a sec.
She puts some baby powder and a little tap and there goes the pain away.
I had to stifle all my shouts and had to stop myself from saying all the expletives I had in mind lest I'll be branded iskandalosa.
Gie had done it all her life. I mean the waxing part and the waxing herself part.
You become used to it when you do it regularly. I just don't have the time that's why it took around 8 months to do the second one.
She told me that customers vary but in her experience, most have really high tolerance for pain.
Most of her clients don't even react when waxed. They just lie there and stare blankly.
That was amazing right? I can't do that but I won't make a scene altogether.
But to not have a reaction after every pull, that was impossible for me.
I can say those first few pulls are really painful. Those in the upper part also very painful.
The part near the rear is less painful but still painful.
Lay Bare uses cold sugar wax so I guess it is a little less painful than hot wax.
I can only guess because I haven't done hot waxing.
But it makes sense. Because in cold waxing you only have to deal with the pull of hair from your skin.
While in hot waxing, aside from the pull, you also have to deal with the heat.
Why do I do it? It's therapeutic, cathartic, liberating for me.
I have the clean feeling of being cleaned and brushed down under.
I have that sexy underneath my clothes feel.
And in fairness, re-growth is softer and finer and it takes time to grow back.
But mind you, it's not for everyone. Brave souls can try.
After waxing, there are some reddish marks on the spot but it went away after a while.
They also have some reminders to make sure you won't have any bad effects after waxing.
If the red skin bothers you for quite a long time, you can soothe the skin by putting cold compress.
Because your pores are open for the world to see, exercising must be avoided 24 hours after waxing
to avoid sweating too much which brings a lot of bacteria that may infect your open pores.
Super skinny tight clothing must also be avoided. Common sense dictates that this can cause irritation and ingrown hairs.
Hot baths or hot showers or sexual activity for just 10 hours after a Brazilian is not recommended as the open pores are prone to irritation by extreme temperature and bacterial infection. But I guess you can try.
Just let me know how it goes.
They also discourage waxing when you have your period or attempting to sunbathe in the sun for at least 48 hours after waxing.
For caffeine addicts, limit your intake on the day of your waxing appointment if you want to keep your wits intact or to prevent dragging all kinds of saints into your waxing session. Caffeine inspires the nervous system and makes it more painful for you.
Some also take anti-histamine to prevent bumps and irritations. Or Advil to save you from calling the dead.
All in all, it was worth the pain and sweat. I will gladly do it again.
What can I say, I must be some brave soul.
My first one was done at Lay Bare Scout Ybardolaza and I only have a hazy memory of it.
I had it in between lunch and I don't remember exactly what made me do it and what exactly happened.
I blame old age for easily forgetting things nowadays.
Anyway, today I had my second waxing experience. I am writing it down and now so that I won't forget again.
I had it done at Lay Bare SM Fairview.
In fairness, waxing is no longer taboo nowadays.
I was in the company of young people, old people and men while waiting for my turn.
And mind you, there's a long line waiting for their turn to get on the table and undergo pain therapy.
After a few minutes and after filling out the forms, a big-boned woman named Gie called me in.
She has to become my Brazilian waxer for the day.
I told her I'm not a virgin Brazilian babe anymore and this is my second time already.
She is kinda motherly so my nerves started to calm a bit.
As I've said, I have a hazy memory of what transpired the first time but I know it borders on pain.
Perhaps the loss of memory is for my mind to block off that painful experience I had.
Anyway, I peed and washed before the event.
Good thing their branch has their own CR or else it would be very difficult and messy to do it in a public toilet.
Knowing how public toilet looks like especially in SM malls, you would rather die than pee there.
After that, I had to strip down under and wrap myself in a towel.
When Gie entered the room I was already lying down and memorizing the scant accessory in the room.
I was also texting my husband that I'll be in a no-phone zone for a little while and I'll call him after I finished.
Gie made me feel comfortable by talking a little and asking me about myself.
Not too much though because that would be bordering on suspicious-looking-person-asking-for-information-so-that-they-can-rob-me.
She tried to make sure I'm a little comfy but not too much before she starts that first pull.
It was a knockout. I mean I had stars in my eyes. It was painful yes but it was tolerable
or I guess I had increased pain tolerance after my surgery and delivery but it was ok.
Surprisingly.
After every pull of my stubborn hair, Gie soothes it by tapping a little and letting me breathe for a sec.
She puts some baby powder and a little tap and there goes the pain away.
I had to stifle all my shouts and had to stop myself from saying all the expletives I had in mind lest I'll be branded iskandalosa.
Gie had done it all her life. I mean the waxing part and the waxing herself part.
You become used to it when you do it regularly. I just don't have the time that's why it took around 8 months to do the second one.
She told me that customers vary but in her experience, most have really high tolerance for pain.
Most of her clients don't even react when waxed. They just lie there and stare blankly.
That was amazing right? I can't do that but I won't make a scene altogether.
But to not have a reaction after every pull, that was impossible for me.
I can say those first few pulls are really painful. Those in the upper part also very painful.
The part near the rear is less painful but still painful.
Lay Bare uses cold sugar wax so I guess it is a little less painful than hot wax.
I can only guess because I haven't done hot waxing.
But it makes sense. Because in cold waxing you only have to deal with the pull of hair from your skin.
While in hot waxing, aside from the pull, you also have to deal with the heat.
Why do I do it? It's therapeutic, cathartic, liberating for me.
I have the clean feeling of being cleaned and brushed down under.
I have that sexy underneath my clothes feel.
And in fairness, re-growth is softer and finer and it takes time to grow back.
But mind you, it's not for everyone. Brave souls can try.
After waxing, there are some reddish marks on the spot but it went away after a while.
They also have some reminders to make sure you won't have any bad effects after waxing.
If the red skin bothers you for quite a long time, you can soothe the skin by putting cold compress.
Because your pores are open for the world to see, exercising must be avoided 24 hours after waxing
to avoid sweating too much which brings a lot of bacteria that may infect your open pores.
Super skinny tight clothing must also be avoided. Common sense dictates that this can cause irritation and ingrown hairs.
Hot baths or hot showers or sexual activity for just 10 hours after a Brazilian is not recommended as the open pores are prone to irritation by extreme temperature and bacterial infection. But I guess you can try.
Just let me know how it goes.
They also discourage waxing when you have your period or attempting to sunbathe in the sun for at least 48 hours after waxing.
For caffeine addicts, limit your intake on the day of your waxing appointment if you want to keep your wits intact or to prevent dragging all kinds of saints into your waxing session. Caffeine inspires the nervous system and makes it more painful for you.
Some also take anti-histamine to prevent bumps and irritations. Or Advil to save you from calling the dead.
All in all, it was worth the pain and sweat. I will gladly do it again.
What can I say, I must be some brave soul.
Thursday, October 4, 2012
To Love is Not to Possess
This is one of my favorite poems about marriage.
Marriage is really hard work. You work together to make it last.
You stay together because you love each other not for any other reason.
It takes time to get adjusted to your partner but with constant trial and error,
you learn to know each other and get to see the best and the worst of each other.
To Love is Not to Possess
By James Kavanaugh
To love is not to possess,
To own or imprison,
Nor to lose one's self in another.
Love is to join and separate,
To walk alone and together,
To find a laughing freedom
That lonely isolation does not permit.
It is finally to be able
To be who we really are
No longer clinging in childish dependency
Nor docilely living separate lives in silence,
It is to be perfectly one's self
And perfectly joined in permanent commitment
To another--and to one's inner self.
Love only endures when it moves like waves,
Receding and returning gently or passionately,
Or moving lovingly like the tide
In the moon's own predictable harmony,
Because finally, despite a child's scars
Or an adult's deepest wounds,
They are openly free to be
Who they really are--and always secretly were,
In the very core of their being
Where true and lasting love can alone abide.
Marriage is really hard work. You work together to make it last.
You stay together because you love each other not for any other reason.
It takes time to get adjusted to your partner but with constant trial and error,
you learn to know each other and get to see the best and the worst of each other.
To Love is Not to Possess
By James Kavanaugh
To love is not to possess,
To own or imprison,
Nor to lose one's self in another.
Love is to join and separate,
To walk alone and together,
To find a laughing freedom
That lonely isolation does not permit.
It is finally to be able
To be who we really are
No longer clinging in childish dependency
Nor docilely living separate lives in silence,
It is to be perfectly one's self
And perfectly joined in permanent commitment
To another--and to one's inner self.
Love only endures when it moves like waves,
Receding and returning gently or passionately,
Or moving lovingly like the tide
In the moon's own predictable harmony,
Because finally, despite a child's scars
Or an adult's deepest wounds,
They are openly free to be
Who they really are--and always secretly were,
In the very core of their being
Where true and lasting love can alone abide.
Tuesday, October 2, 2012
Before I Start My Day...
This is my prayer:
Dear Lord,
I thank you for this day. I thank you for being able to see and to hear this morning. I'm blessed because you are a forgiving God and an understanding God. You have done so much for me and you keep on blessing me. Forgive me this day for everything I have done, said or thought that was not pleasing to you. I ask now for your forgiveness.
Please keep me safe from all danger and harm. Help me to start this day with a new attitude and plenty of gratitude. Let me make the best of each and everyday to clear my mind so that I can hear from you.
Please broaden my mind that I can accept all things.
Let me not whine and whimper over things I have no control over. Let me continue to see sin through God's eyes and acknowledge it as evil. And when I sin, let me repent and confess with my mouth my wrongdoing, and receive the forgiveness of God.
And when this world closes in on me, let me remember Jesus' example -- to slip away and find a quiet place to pray. It's the best response when I'm pushed beyond my limits. I know that when I can't pray, you listen to my heart. Continue to use me to do your will.
Continue to bless me that I may be a blessing to others. Keep me strong that I am help the weak. Keep me uplifted that I may have words of encouragement for others. I pray for those that are lost and can't find their way. I pray for those that are misjudged and misunderstood. I pray for those who don't you intimately. I pray for those that don't believe. But I thank you that I believe.
I believe that God changes people and God changes things. I pray for all my sisters and brothers. For each and every family members. I pray for peace, love and joy in their homes that they are out of debt and all their needs are met.
I pray that every eye that reads this knows there is no problem, circumstance or situation greater than God. Every battle is in your hands for you to fight. I pray that these words be received into the hearts of every eye that sees then and every eye that confesses them willingly.
This is my prayer.
In Jesus' name.
Amen.
Lord I love you and I need you, come into my heart please.
Dear Lord,
I thank you for this day. I thank you for being able to see and to hear this morning. I'm blessed because you are a forgiving God and an understanding God. You have done so much for me and you keep on blessing me. Forgive me this day for everything I have done, said or thought that was not pleasing to you. I ask now for your forgiveness.
Please keep me safe from all danger and harm. Help me to start this day with a new attitude and plenty of gratitude. Let me make the best of each and everyday to clear my mind so that I can hear from you.
Please broaden my mind that I can accept all things.
Let me not whine and whimper over things I have no control over. Let me continue to see sin through God's eyes and acknowledge it as evil. And when I sin, let me repent and confess with my mouth my wrongdoing, and receive the forgiveness of God.
And when this world closes in on me, let me remember Jesus' example -- to slip away and find a quiet place to pray. It's the best response when I'm pushed beyond my limits. I know that when I can't pray, you listen to my heart. Continue to use me to do your will.
Continue to bless me that I may be a blessing to others. Keep me strong that I am help the weak. Keep me uplifted that I may have words of encouragement for others. I pray for those that are lost and can't find their way. I pray for those that are misjudged and misunderstood. I pray for those who don't you intimately. I pray for those that don't believe. But I thank you that I believe.
I believe that God changes people and God changes things. I pray for all my sisters and brothers. For each and every family members. I pray for peace, love and joy in their homes that they are out of debt and all their needs are met.
I pray that every eye that reads this knows there is no problem, circumstance or situation greater than God. Every battle is in your hands for you to fight. I pray that these words be received into the hearts of every eye that sees then and every eye that confesses them willingly.
This is my prayer.
In Jesus' name.
Amen.
Lord I love you and I need you, come into my heart please.
The Thing I Do at the End of Each Day
After my busy day at work, after all the meetings, after the voluminous emails and the comments and after the production stuff, all I want to do at the end of each day is to go home to my family and get that restful night for another day ahead.
However, before going to dreamland, I always end the day with a prayer. I do it while my baby is already sleeping right next to us. I pray 1 Apostles’ Creed, 1 Our Father, 1 Hail Mary and 1 Glory Be. I lift up all my worries, fears, doubts to Papa Jesus. I lift up my work, my relationships, my life to Him. I lift up my baby and my hubby to Papa Jesus. Sometime I close my eyes and sometimes I kneel but most of the time I just lie down and thank God for all the happiness, good health, and good day He has given us. Sometimes I tell him stories, things I have done or should have done or accomplished today. Sometimes I tell him people I met, or people I have helped, or people who irritated me or people whom I have annoyed in some ways. Sometimes I tell him things that went right and even things that went wrong. I tell Papa Jesus to give me the courage to face tomorrow and to make it better than today. I ask Him to bless my baby, my hubby, my family and friends every single day. And I ask Him that despite my failures as his daughter, I hope He will never leave me ever.
However, before going to dreamland, I always end the day with a prayer. I do it while my baby is already sleeping right next to us. I pray 1 Apostles’ Creed, 1 Our Father, 1 Hail Mary and 1 Glory Be. I lift up all my worries, fears, doubts to Papa Jesus. I lift up my work, my relationships, my life to Him. I lift up my baby and my hubby to Papa Jesus. Sometime I close my eyes and sometimes I kneel but most of the time I just lie down and thank God for all the happiness, good health, and good day He has given us. Sometimes I tell him stories, things I have done or should have done or accomplished today. Sometimes I tell him people I met, or people I have helped, or people who irritated me or people whom I have annoyed in some ways. Sometimes I tell him things that went right and even things that went wrong. I tell Papa Jesus to give me the courage to face tomorrow and to make it better than today. I ask Him to bless my baby, my hubby, my family and friends every single day. And I ask Him that despite my failures as his daughter, I hope He will never leave me ever.
Monday, September 17, 2012
Motherhood
This is a very nice poem I got from the Internet. Not really sure who wrote but whoever you are, you have exactly the same sentiments as I am. Motherhood is the best thing that ever happened to me and up to this day, I still can’t believe that God gave me this cute little boy I can call my own.
Motherhood is a choice you make everyday,
To put someone else’s happiness and well-being
Ahead of your own,
To teach the hard lessons,
To do the right thing
Even when you’re not sure what the right thing is...
And to forgive yourself,
Over and over again,
For doing everything wrong
Motherhood is a choice you make everyday,
To put someone else’s happiness and well-being
Ahead of your own,
To teach the hard lessons,
To do the right thing
Even when you’re not sure what the right thing is...
And to forgive yourself,
Over and over again,
For doing everything wrong
Thursday, September 6, 2012
Before I die I want to...
Candy Chang: Before I die I want to...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uebxlIrosiM
Sharing this very timely video about life and death.
We had a colleague who just recently died of cancer at the age of 35. She is from a different division but we had business with her from time to time. She battled cancer for many years. The last treatment which hopes to cure it, had all her good friends and ABS-CBN employees come together to gather funds for the experimental treatment but to no avail. She will surely be missed.
I don't know Marion personally but the very few professional dealings I had with her
I find her so charming, decent and very positive about life.
When I was younger, I care less about death because I am only responsible for my own life.
But now that I am a mother, I feel strongly towards self-preservation more than anything else.
We all know that our time in this world is limited,
and that the only (constant) sure thing on earth aside from change is death;
and that soon all of us will end up done with life.
And yet it is always a surprise when it happens to someone dear to us or to someone we know.
But the thing is we cannot fight it and we cannot stop it,
what we can do is be ready when the time comes
and hope that we have lived a life we can be proud of
and that we have made a difference in the universe in our own little way
so that the ones we have left behind can move on with our inspiring spirit.
I am 35 years old now, same age as Marion.
Life is too short for someone who is so full of it.
But she had lived a full life and that's all that matters.
When something like this happens, you get affected and you get to think about the realness of death in your life.
Before I die, I want and I hope that my son is strong and responsible enough to be able to live a life he can be proud of.
Hanoi, Vietnam (Another Jurassic Post)
It’s hard not to fall in love with Hanoi, translated as the land between rivers, and the capital of Vietnam. A rustic beauty sprawled over the picturesque expanse of North Vietnam and bounded by several rivers, the region is one of the world’s best kept secrets I guess for now.
As an architectural delight, Hanoi boasts of French influences and intricate structures remnants of the occupation of France and local wonders such as the One-Pillar Pagoda, Perfume Pagoda, Tran Vu Temple and the ancient university of Quoc Tu Giam-Van Mieu. As a cultural haven, the Ba Dinh square has the mausoleum of Ho Chi Minh which still draws crowds by the hundreds and the Ba Dinh district is where the old citadel of Hanoi is located. As a historical landmark, the well-preserved ancient streets and olden buildings within their administrative district Hoan Kiem and around it still have deep marks of their storied past.
But aside from these powerful remembrance, Hanoi’s major pull is the idyllic laid-back lifestyle which includes old living quarters, schools and structures in the Dong Da, Tay Ho, Thanh Xuan and Cau Giay districts; the subdued landscape of their agricultural districts and the many lakes of countryside living that let you appreciate nature more plus the four seasons that Hanoi enjoys all throughout the year.
Flying There: Hanoi is visa-free as our country has bilateral agreements for visa exemption. There is now a direct flight from Manila to Hanoi via Cebu Pacific (www.cebupacificair.com) for as low as P7000+ roundtrip. Or you can also try the direct flights from Manila to Hanoi via out Singapore Airlines (www.singaporeair.com) USD 630+ depending on the season. It’s pricey but for those who want the luxury of big space, good food and wouldn’t mind paying more, it’s a good ride. Or you can book Ho Chi Minh via Cebu Pacific and get a domestic flight from there. Check out Vietnam Airlines and the low-cost Pacific Airlines.
Going Around: There are buses for longer travel, bicycle rickshaws for shorter trips and the easiest to take – the taxi cabs. Get the number of Hanoi Taxi or Taxi CP, you can call them anytime and let you pick up anywhere within the city. Operators speak English, the few people who can in Hanoi. Most of the taxi drivers negotiate the fare so be wary when taking a cab besides these two taxi lines.
Current Rate: Dong is the currency in Hanoi US1 = 16,000VND. But no worries if you haven’t exchanged your US dollars to their local unit, all business establishments accept US dollars.
Buying Stuff: Hanoi is also a shopping haven. The street between Hoan Kiem Lake and the Cathedral has shops with slightly lower prices than the tourist shopping destination of the Old Quarter. There are also smaller shops within the city, try the one bearing the name ‘Made in Vietnam’ and the Dong Xuan Market for the largest wholesale and retail center. It is also usual for a whole street or district in Hanoi to sell the same kind of products; shoes in one street and bicycle accessories in another street. Remember to bargain! There are only two major shopping malls in Hanoi, Trang Tien Plaza and the Vincom City Towers. Curfew is at 10pm and all businesses strictly follow it.
Food Tripping: Their food is one of the healthiest, common staple is vegetable, fruits and rice. Usually boiled or involved many ingredients. Try their pickled eggplant, papaya salad, spring rolls, banh hoi, thin rice vermicelli served cold with grilled marinated pork and fish sauce, the chicken noodle soup Pho Ga and the beef noodle soup Pho Bo. Because they were a French colony before, Vietnamese baguette or French bread with paté has become the workers’ fave ‘anytime food’. Interesting sight is that they huddle around street corners for their meals anytime of the day, chatting while eating in makeshift tables and chairs. For fruits, try their Longan, Mangosteen and Dragonfruit.
Visit Moka Café, Paris Deli for Italian meal, Somerset for pasta dishes and the contemporary Restaurant Bobby Chinn which is owned by the Travel & Living host with the same name. No Starbucks yet but they have local coffee shop called Highlands Coffee anywhere. For those who love McDo, sorry there is only one international fastfood chain in the whole of Hanoi -- KFC.
Visiting Sites: Hanoi is an all-season tourist destination. The famous Ha Long Bay, one of UNESCO’s world’s natural wonders for its universal aesthetic value has over 3,000 breathtaking islands set in pristine emerald green water. The bay has thousands of limestone karsts and isles in various sizes and shapes. Visit the surrounding caves, jungles and grotto. The two largest islands Cat Ba and Tuan Chau have permanent residents with hotels and facilities where you can stay overnight. Ha Long Bay is around 2-3 hours away from the city, so book the tour with your hotel as this will save time finding it or getting there. Also check with the local tourism authority for the legitimate fees, official tour guides and guidelines. Ha Long Bay along with our famous landmarks is also nominated as the World's 7 New Natural Wonder. Just a reminder, everything is expensive there so just bring your own water or junk foods. If you book a tour, usually the lunch is included but not the drinks.
Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum in Hanoi has the man himself entombed ala Marcos style. Talking is not allowed, showing sign of disrespect is apprehended, taking photos inside is prohibited and walking shorts or sleeveless top is a big no-no. I had to pay 100,000 dong for renting long pants so skip the skimpy and cover up.
Ho Chi Minh Museum and Vestige perfectly capture the days and nights in the life of Ho Chi Minh from 1954 until his death in 1969. The complex also includes two of Ho Chi Minh's houses, garage with Ho Chi Minh’s cars and a carp-filled pond.
Hundreds of historical, political and cultural sites surround Hanoi. Check out the Temple of Literature (founded in 1070 and the country's first university), the One Pillar Pagoda (charming old wooden temple on a single stone pillar), Museum of Ethnology (features the cultural and ritual practices of the Vietnamese ethnic groups), Hoan Kiem Lake (park in the center of town within short walking distance from the Old Quarter), the Downed Aircraft Memorial (a stone plaque commemorating the shooting down of a U.S. Navy aircraft in 1967 and where you can see the name of Republican bet John McCain as one of the listed officers) and the Hoa Lo Prison (also called as The Hanoi Hilton where captured Americans were imprisoned during the war). The Old Quarter is home to guesthouses and hostels for budget travelers. But if you’re traveling with a group or have extra moolah to spare, try their hotels instead for they offer really low prices. Around P2000+ per night per room including buffet breakfast for 3 pax). Check out Hanoi Pacific Hotel and Church Hotel.
Make sure you take a lot of pictures and socialize with the locals. It’s a fun experience. Though they speak little English, they are respectful and always have a ready smile for tourists. So when I say it’s hard not to fall in love with Hanoi, I mean it from the bottom of my heart and who wouldn’t. Visit Hanoi and fall in love now!
Photos courtesy of Marl Abejero
Wednesday, September 5, 2012
My attempt to write a short novel
On a windy balmy afternoon, I am starting my story. This as I sat alone in an al fresco restaurant sipping coffee, people watching and contemplating my future after a failed relationship again, a career that seems going nowhere, friends that are always rushing to leave somewhere, the rising cost of living and my recent bout with a disease that left me half dead, half living.
It was one of those days when I wished I was sick so I'll have a few days down to not think of anything but sleep and medicine and getting well. I saw the cars passing by with their passengers and their blank faces, some so sure of where they are going, others unknown of where to go. I saw the slightly stooping but proud mother carrying a sleeping child wishing that her baby will have a future brighter than her. I saw the attache case man blindly going to the next meeting probably to seal another million dollar deal for his boss but at the expense of another quality time not spent with his family. I saw the young couple holding hands not knowing that their parents are waiting for them back home to tell them that they have to break it off or they'll have to send them packing to separate boarding schools. I looked at the woman who was oblivious of the honking cars and devoid of chaos who will probably going home to a house bursting with an uncanny silence so deafening she'll probably try to bury her face under her pillow again. I gazed lovingly and somewhat enviously at the happy family with their dog in tow going to the park for their weekend stroll only to find out when they go home that their place had been ransacked and robbed. These are the ironies of life that if you're too weak or too coward to face will leave you catatonic or worst, dead.
It was with these thoughts racing on my mind and occupying my time that I didn't notice the homeless woman until she nudged me from behind and asked me for something to eat. As I turned my gaze to this unwelcome intrusion, I dropped the mug I was holding and it fell to the ground shattering the silence of my thoughts and making people turn their heads in my solitary presence. It was an uncomfortable situation for someone who was looking for a little peace and stillness from her chaotic life and equally chaotic thinking. But on that day, in that instant, I just picked up a fragment that broke off from the mug and landed on my feet and laughed like a madwoman. When the urge is too strong and the emotion is too intense, nothing and no one can ever stop you from doing the things that will leave you looking like a fool. And in that moment, I didn't care at all.
The homeless woman almost was about to flee for fear of being admonished by the restaurant people for causing the crash and in part for causing my mind to escape me for a moment. In one quick reflex, I had my hand softly in the homeless woman's arm letting her know that it's ok. She must have seen the pleading in my eyes that she cautiously stayed and sat down.
"How are you?", a crazy question you might say, crazier if you ask it to a homeless person with nothing and no one except the clothes on her back. I felt like an idiot for a second but when you have almost lost your senses, nothing is surprising anymore. I asked it as if the answer will be the most important wisdom in the world that I'll ever get. This I asked as if the answer will be the cure-all to all of the planet's problems and to mine as well. The homeless woman nervously shifted position and with the insides of his sleeves, rubbed the eye crusts that hugged her sight. I must have cringed at the sight of her doing that, that's why she had to slightly bow to cover her undoing.
"I'm ok", she answered without pretensions and with a slight twitch in her mouth. "I know you're thinking that I'm just a homeless woman with nothing in material wealth, who rummages through other people's trash to survive, who begs for other people's food to live, who hovers in other people's happiness hoping that their happiness and fortunes will rub on me and make me luckier. But I'm ok." she started to relax.
"I get by not the way you get by... but I get by all the same. I breathe. I live. I see the world and the people in a fashion divested of all things limiting. I am not restrained by the company that pays or by the boyfriend who claimed loves me or the image the governs choices. I am not prevented by the friends who influence or the money that rules the world or the time that controls the work and lifestyle. Nothing is confining me. Nobody is holding me back except perhaps the occasional rains or when I'm too feeble to walk because I don't get to eat the nutritious foods you can only get with a hefty price nowadays. I know without the one I mentioned, people see you as unimportant, as someone not worthy of any time, as someone better left ignored in this lifetime. And yes that would have been my reaction a long time ago when I met me like this in the street on my way to the office.
I choked but she continued. This time with zeal and passion.
You see I have been a top executive before. I almost own the company I work for because as they say, I am a genius. I have put them on the world map, doubled their profits, streamlined their people, cut down their operating costs, re-engineered their credo to make it more human and just when I thought I almost have it all, I made a mistake, stumbled and fell flat faced on the ground. It began when I made an untimely judgment call to skew the market to another segment and let go of the existing ones. I have been so confident that the industry and the prevailing call of the times will change in favor of my decision but it did not. I was wrong and the consequences were disastrous. I have a 5-year relationship with a guy in the same industry and when a woman in tough times call for tough support, I never got one, mine went away and change to a sturdier gal who needed no support at all. My friends came rushing to me not to comfort but to say their goodbyes and the family that I was hoping to cling on has a problem of their own that telling them mine would only make it worse. So left with no one and nothing, I brokedown. A few helped along the way but my own will and determination made me recover and here I am now, dirty and with nothing and I have never felt ok.
I was stunned. No words form in my mouth. I may have been too jaded with the world that I forgot to really look at people, the realness in them. The sin of generalizing took hold of me; when people are dirty, they're rubbish, when people are poor, they're insignificant, when they don't have anything to offer you, they're not much use of your time. This time, I took a good look at the person in front of me. She is perhaps in her 60s. The sun has put a strain on her brown skin but you can still see that she has seen better days. The hair is a little unkempt tied in a bun with some flowing through her eyes. She has a small eyes and a gentle stare , the kind I only see on mothers, my mother. When she smiles, her small eyes disappears but her whole face comes alive. She speaks slowly slurring some of the words so I had to move a little closer to hear her. She's a proud woman despite being deprived of what I have right now... everything material but nothing spiritual.
I ordered a meal and sat back as I offered it to my new friend. This is starting to get to my skin. I have always been too focused with everything that my company needs, with everything to make me feel needed : planning, organizing, staffing, managing, controlling people, places, things. I only have 2-hour sleep, I'm always on the go, on the phone, in a meeting, in a working breakfast, lunch and dinner, I am always talking to people, running after clients, organizing events, attending a premiere, planning a new campaign, writing scripts, preparing presentations, until my mind started wandering to faraway lands, to calming breeze and soft winds, until it loiters and lingers a little longer to a safer place where no one can harm me and everything works according to my command. That's when I had my breakdown and I can no longer be tasked to manage even to do simple chores like locking the door and turning off the lights. That's when I realized that some people have limits, physically and mentally and that if you don't acknowledge that, you're either superman/woman or a ghost.
Come to think of it, this homeless woman and me are bounded together by a common thread, we're both obsessed with getting what we want in so little time, in pleasing everyone and always asking to be needed and not leaving anything for thyself. It's as if the praises will make us better persons, the deals will make us a cut above the rest, the work will make us invisible from the hurt and the pain and the sickness and from the consequences of time not spent with the people we love. They say that when we get older, relationships will be much more important than your work. It always does. But in our time while going up the corporate ladder, we both forgot that until we're too worn down and too damaged to change the course of our life. It has become both our weakness to focus on satisfying our ambitions only to find out in the end that it never stops. One can never be fully satisfied. It goes on and on and higher and higher. What we have right now, what we own, whatever position we have reached, it just gives you the reason to want more, have more and reach higher at the expense of all that's truly important.
My new friend has long been gone both from the restaurant and in my life. She has finished her meal and moved on to tread the path she has carefully chosen. It may not be everybody's choice or people may not find it the wisest decision but it was a path that she has certainly thrived . She is probably talking to another lost soul, touching another life, changing another perspective, and like me, giving options to be like her or to be like no one. The chances of us meeting again is nil compared to the opportunity that she has opened for me in a slightly different way. Picking up the pieces like picking the broken mug will never be easy. Starting over for a woman who has been diagnosed with a nomadic mind will always be difficult. Making a new life and forgetting the past will require the greatest effort and the longest healing time. But it can happen. Time has given me the advantage. Destiny has given me the chance to change my path or to see what led to what. And to let this chance pass would be to let life pass you by without lessons learned.
It was one of those days when I wished I was sick so I'll have a few days down to not think of anything but sleep and medicine and getting well. I saw the cars passing by with their passengers and their blank faces, some so sure of where they are going, others unknown of where to go. I saw the slightly stooping but proud mother carrying a sleeping child wishing that her baby will have a future brighter than her. I saw the attache case man blindly going to the next meeting probably to seal another million dollar deal for his boss but at the expense of another quality time not spent with his family. I saw the young couple holding hands not knowing that their parents are waiting for them back home to tell them that they have to break it off or they'll have to send them packing to separate boarding schools. I looked at the woman who was oblivious of the honking cars and devoid of chaos who will probably going home to a house bursting with an uncanny silence so deafening she'll probably try to bury her face under her pillow again. I gazed lovingly and somewhat enviously at the happy family with their dog in tow going to the park for their weekend stroll only to find out when they go home that their place had been ransacked and robbed. These are the ironies of life that if you're too weak or too coward to face will leave you catatonic or worst, dead.
It was with these thoughts racing on my mind and occupying my time that I didn't notice the homeless woman until she nudged me from behind and asked me for something to eat. As I turned my gaze to this unwelcome intrusion, I dropped the mug I was holding and it fell to the ground shattering the silence of my thoughts and making people turn their heads in my solitary presence. It was an uncomfortable situation for someone who was looking for a little peace and stillness from her chaotic life and equally chaotic thinking. But on that day, in that instant, I just picked up a fragment that broke off from the mug and landed on my feet and laughed like a madwoman. When the urge is too strong and the emotion is too intense, nothing and no one can ever stop you from doing the things that will leave you looking like a fool. And in that moment, I didn't care at all.
The homeless woman almost was about to flee for fear of being admonished by the restaurant people for causing the crash and in part for causing my mind to escape me for a moment. In one quick reflex, I had my hand softly in the homeless woman's arm letting her know that it's ok. She must have seen the pleading in my eyes that she cautiously stayed and sat down.
"How are you?", a crazy question you might say, crazier if you ask it to a homeless person with nothing and no one except the clothes on her back. I felt like an idiot for a second but when you have almost lost your senses, nothing is surprising anymore. I asked it as if the answer will be the most important wisdom in the world that I'll ever get. This I asked as if the answer will be the cure-all to all of the planet's problems and to mine as well. The homeless woman nervously shifted position and with the insides of his sleeves, rubbed the eye crusts that hugged her sight. I must have cringed at the sight of her doing that, that's why she had to slightly bow to cover her undoing.
"I'm ok", she answered without pretensions and with a slight twitch in her mouth. "I know you're thinking that I'm just a homeless woman with nothing in material wealth, who rummages through other people's trash to survive, who begs for other people's food to live, who hovers in other people's happiness hoping that their happiness and fortunes will rub on me and make me luckier. But I'm ok." she started to relax.
"I get by not the way you get by... but I get by all the same. I breathe. I live. I see the world and the people in a fashion divested of all things limiting. I am not restrained by the company that pays or by the boyfriend who claimed loves me or the image the governs choices. I am not prevented by the friends who influence or the money that rules the world or the time that controls the work and lifestyle. Nothing is confining me. Nobody is holding me back except perhaps the occasional rains or when I'm too feeble to walk because I don't get to eat the nutritious foods you can only get with a hefty price nowadays. I know without the one I mentioned, people see you as unimportant, as someone not worthy of any time, as someone better left ignored in this lifetime. And yes that would have been my reaction a long time ago when I met me like this in the street on my way to the office.
I choked but she continued. This time with zeal and passion.
You see I have been a top executive before. I almost own the company I work for because as they say, I am a genius. I have put them on the world map, doubled their profits, streamlined their people, cut down their operating costs, re-engineered their credo to make it more human and just when I thought I almost have it all, I made a mistake, stumbled and fell flat faced on the ground. It began when I made an untimely judgment call to skew the market to another segment and let go of the existing ones. I have been so confident that the industry and the prevailing call of the times will change in favor of my decision but it did not. I was wrong and the consequences were disastrous. I have a 5-year relationship with a guy in the same industry and when a woman in tough times call for tough support, I never got one, mine went away and change to a sturdier gal who needed no support at all. My friends came rushing to me not to comfort but to say their goodbyes and the family that I was hoping to cling on has a problem of their own that telling them mine would only make it worse. So left with no one and nothing, I brokedown. A few helped along the way but my own will and determination made me recover and here I am now, dirty and with nothing and I have never felt ok.
I was stunned. No words form in my mouth. I may have been too jaded with the world that I forgot to really look at people, the realness in them. The sin of generalizing took hold of me; when people are dirty, they're rubbish, when people are poor, they're insignificant, when they don't have anything to offer you, they're not much use of your time. This time, I took a good look at the person in front of me. She is perhaps in her 60s. The sun has put a strain on her brown skin but you can still see that she has seen better days. The hair is a little unkempt tied in a bun with some flowing through her eyes. She has a small eyes and a gentle stare , the kind I only see on mothers, my mother. When she smiles, her small eyes disappears but her whole face comes alive. She speaks slowly slurring some of the words so I had to move a little closer to hear her. She's a proud woman despite being deprived of what I have right now... everything material but nothing spiritual.
I ordered a meal and sat back as I offered it to my new friend. This is starting to get to my skin. I have always been too focused with everything that my company needs, with everything to make me feel needed : planning, organizing, staffing, managing, controlling people, places, things. I only have 2-hour sleep, I'm always on the go, on the phone, in a meeting, in a working breakfast, lunch and dinner, I am always talking to people, running after clients, organizing events, attending a premiere, planning a new campaign, writing scripts, preparing presentations, until my mind started wandering to faraway lands, to calming breeze and soft winds, until it loiters and lingers a little longer to a safer place where no one can harm me and everything works according to my command. That's when I had my breakdown and I can no longer be tasked to manage even to do simple chores like locking the door and turning off the lights. That's when I realized that some people have limits, physically and mentally and that if you don't acknowledge that, you're either superman/woman or a ghost.
Come to think of it, this homeless woman and me are bounded together by a common thread, we're both obsessed with getting what we want in so little time, in pleasing everyone and always asking to be needed and not leaving anything for thyself. It's as if the praises will make us better persons, the deals will make us a cut above the rest, the work will make us invisible from the hurt and the pain and the sickness and from the consequences of time not spent with the people we love. They say that when we get older, relationships will be much more important than your work. It always does. But in our time while going up the corporate ladder, we both forgot that until we're too worn down and too damaged to change the course of our life. It has become both our weakness to focus on satisfying our ambitions only to find out in the end that it never stops. One can never be fully satisfied. It goes on and on and higher and higher. What we have right now, what we own, whatever position we have reached, it just gives you the reason to want more, have more and reach higher at the expense of all that's truly important.
My new friend has long been gone both from the restaurant and in my life. She has finished her meal and moved on to tread the path she has carefully chosen. It may not be everybody's choice or people may not find it the wisest decision but it was a path that she has certainly thrived . She is probably talking to another lost soul, touching another life, changing another perspective, and like me, giving options to be like her or to be like no one. The chances of us meeting again is nil compared to the opportunity that she has opened for me in a slightly different way. Picking up the pieces like picking the broken mug will never be easy. Starting over for a woman who has been diagnosed with a nomadic mind will always be difficult. Making a new life and forgetting the past will require the greatest effort and the longest healing time. But it can happen. Time has given me the advantage. Destiny has given me the chance to change my path or to see what led to what. And to let this chance pass would be to let life pass you by without lessons learned.
My first time in Singapore (Another Jurassic Post)
My first trip to Singapore in 2005 was just an accident. I had been vacationing in Kuala Lumpur for several days already and the view is starting to become monotonous so I thought that a little side trip to this state wouldn't hurt and would enrich my scant information about how this small country from Southeast Asia who has gained independence from the British as part of Federation Malaysia in 1963 and became a totally separate nation two years after, reached their prominence in terms of economic growth in 20 years or so, ranked as one of the first-world countries and rose to be a model example of a country that has never lost its duty to its people in terms of lives improvement. An unprecedented feat only a strong leader can make it happen and sadly, our nation can only hope for.
I arrived Singapore a little past midnight via a 5-hour bus ride from Putrajaya KL and got a trip-back ticket at 5pm that day. So sleeping not allowed, I have about 16 hours to spend and a lot more experiences to save in my memory bank.
I started the usual tourist route which can be a little familiar when you have been to other countries; a little shopping in Esplanade, Suntec City, strolling along Orchard Road and visiting the many museums that dotted the city, letting out the child within in Sentosa. Unexpectedly by the third hour, the typical feelings were replaced with awe and a lot of memorable interactions. And by the time I was about leave, I can’t even bring myself to take that first step to the terminal that will bring me back to KL.
The first thing I noticed in Singapore is the cleanliness. You know it takes very little to make me happy and the zero-waste, smoke-less, odor-free environment is enough for me to jump for joy and scream hallelujah. Singapore takes to heart their law seriously on anti-littering and smoking and punishments are meted out appropriately. No one is above the law. And this kind of discipline from an economic tiger state has flowed into their economic evolution and success.
The second is safety. Rarely can you probably hear someone being mugged or robbed in this country. I have fear of taking out my phone in the streets back home but I didn't have any here. One of the things that people look for in a place to visit is its safety whether you're locals, expats or tourists. I find comfort in the fact that Singapore exercises tough laws and punishes those found accountable.
The mass transit system is one of the the most organized, weaving together all the major must stops in the city. The directions are simple and tourist friendly. Every stop opens to major malls, friendly walkways and pedestrian friendly streets connecting building to building so you'll never be off coursed, of course.
Singapore is also home to the most multicultural mixed of races so you might be lost in translation once in a while but you won't have a hard time asking for instructions in English. The culture and arts are alive and thriving because the country has never dropped it in their scope while they are building their city. The Esplanade has been a symbol of their active advocacy in the preservation of their culture and arts and the appreciation of others.
The worldwide fame of the Annual Singapore Sale has put them on the map as the ultimate shopping destination in Asia with all the top-of-the-line local and international brands vying first place in your heart, asking to take them with your hard-earned money. They also have the most efficient customer service that really works and that really takes good care of their customers beyond the usual.
And nothing beats their excellent cuisines; some extraordinary local fares, others a fusion of many influences. The food will make you forget that you're on a diet and still recovering from the recent allergy back home that left you dehydrated. Shame gluttony. The foods personify that Singapore will always leave a distinct taste in your palate; sweet, spicy, a little salty sometimes and everything nice.
But more than these, it's the people that will make you stay and return back. I have a lot of happy memories of Singapore from my first trip in 2005 which was less than a day and was accidental in nature but a fortunate one until the succeeding trips back in 2006 and last February this year. My 16-hour first stay in Singapore left me yearning for more and was one of the most fruitful and exhilarating trips of my life that's why I had to do it one more time and another time and whenever I go back, it never fails to amaze me every time.
That fateful little accident of 2005 was the start of my good relationship with a country that always spells happiness. Happiness because here I met different people of diverse cultures and got to swap stories of trips gone awry, anecdotes of funny and sometimes twisted sense of humor, accounts of breathtaking places and landmarks that left me changed, tales of mysterious discovery of amazing off-the-beaten tracks, chronicles of people and cultures with different means of self-expression and narratives of personal failures and triumphs. Happiness because I got to have a somewhat unofficial survey of social mores, satisfying indulgences and neat what-to-do revelations and found out that we may be of different colors but dig deeper and you may find yourselves alike in more ways than one. And true money can’t buy happiness and sometimes the desire of materials things can be a deterrent pill to enjoy life that's why whenever I visit Singapore, I try everything not just shopping, no stones left unturned. For indeed, it's the total cultural immersion; the interactions and relationships you have from the immigration officials as you enter the country's territory until that last person you will meet that really count.
I have always been grateful for that first trip decided in haste but ended up as a saving grace; that when I go back to my own life however chaotic or dull it may be, I have that 16 hours to go back to, to keep me sane, to take back my depleted energy and to keep that soul alive, that despite the not-so-good things that have happened and might happen in the future, despite some shattered goals and sometimes defeated spirits, I have found a beautiful friend in Singapore and because of that, I can face anything with a smile.
What can I say, I was tagged, marked and resigned to honor this wonderful place and this is my sweet revenge all in a day's work.
Just some quirks I find positively entertaining in Singapore:
Nobody minds what you wear. Be it the shorts short of all shorts or the long johns of longs, showing some cleavage or just some space in between your bosom or letting everyone know that peeking butt crack is cool. They really don’t mind and care as long you do it within the limits of decency. It's their form of self-expression and being considered as the Asia's creative hub; they have donned it even in the streets and public transports.
Locals have their own English they call Singlish. It's a language that you'll get used to though when you stay for at least a year but kind of hard when you just step off right from the airplane. They also put some -ya after every sentence that I once thought a guy from the store is waiting for answer when he had thrown a declarative sentence at me.
They don’t complete you. You don't have to complete your sentence with the prescribed articles, prepositions or the small words you put in between your words to connect as long as the basic words are there. They are not really much focused on grammar as long as you understand each other I guess.
The MRT and buses (despite being double-deck and aplenty) are always swelling with people even on holidays. We had the chance to be there on a Chinese New Year and though all the stores are close, there will always be great places to go to. And by that way, there's really not much to do during Chinese New Year and most of the people there have their long overdue vacay during that time.
They are big on brands. It's like you're shopping for that perfect LV bag or the comfortable Gucci shoes when you look at everyone, everywhere you go. Locals and expats here have been quite an avid wearer of branded clothes and are not afraid to let everyone know. Branded names are a local staple here so think twice when bringing fake stuff or wearing one or better yet, leave them at home.
Most don’t mind what you do in public and everyone respects your privacy. I once saw a couple French kissing at the MRT and nobody even dared look at them. I think I was the only one for about 1/60 of a sec. I apologize.
Sweets and local desserts are aplenty and it would always be like spinning the wheel of fortune whenever choosing the best dessert that will perfectly complement your breakfast, lunch, dinner etc .
I have always been fascinated by different cultures and Singaporeans have a charm and a sense of humor uniquely their own. I have, since 2005, loved the quirkiness of the place and the people and everything that have shaped and molded them and made them who they are today. I have always been enchanted by their discipline and strength and though I wouldn't be able to fully understand their culture, I have come to realize that I can always be a friend to them.
I arrived Singapore a little past midnight via a 5-hour bus ride from Putrajaya KL and got a trip-back ticket at 5pm that day. So sleeping not allowed, I have about 16 hours to spend and a lot more experiences to save in my memory bank.
I started the usual tourist route which can be a little familiar when you have been to other countries; a little shopping in Esplanade, Suntec City, strolling along Orchard Road and visiting the many museums that dotted the city, letting out the child within in Sentosa. Unexpectedly by the third hour, the typical feelings were replaced with awe and a lot of memorable interactions. And by the time I was about leave, I can’t even bring myself to take that first step to the terminal that will bring me back to KL.
The first thing I noticed in Singapore is the cleanliness. You know it takes very little to make me happy and the zero-waste, smoke-less, odor-free environment is enough for me to jump for joy and scream hallelujah. Singapore takes to heart their law seriously on anti-littering and smoking and punishments are meted out appropriately. No one is above the law. And this kind of discipline from an economic tiger state has flowed into their economic evolution and success.
The second is safety. Rarely can you probably hear someone being mugged or robbed in this country. I have fear of taking out my phone in the streets back home but I didn't have any here. One of the things that people look for in a place to visit is its safety whether you're locals, expats or tourists. I find comfort in the fact that Singapore exercises tough laws and punishes those found accountable.
The mass transit system is one of the the most organized, weaving together all the major must stops in the city. The directions are simple and tourist friendly. Every stop opens to major malls, friendly walkways and pedestrian friendly streets connecting building to building so you'll never be off coursed, of course.
Singapore is also home to the most multicultural mixed of races so you might be lost in translation once in a while but you won't have a hard time asking for instructions in English. The culture and arts are alive and thriving because the country has never dropped it in their scope while they are building their city. The Esplanade has been a symbol of their active advocacy in the preservation of their culture and arts and the appreciation of others.
The worldwide fame of the Annual Singapore Sale has put them on the map as the ultimate shopping destination in Asia with all the top-of-the-line local and international brands vying first place in your heart, asking to take them with your hard-earned money. They also have the most efficient customer service that really works and that really takes good care of their customers beyond the usual.
And nothing beats their excellent cuisines; some extraordinary local fares, others a fusion of many influences. The food will make you forget that you're on a diet and still recovering from the recent allergy back home that left you dehydrated. Shame gluttony. The foods personify that Singapore will always leave a distinct taste in your palate; sweet, spicy, a little salty sometimes and everything nice.
But more than these, it's the people that will make you stay and return back. I have a lot of happy memories of Singapore from my first trip in 2005 which was less than a day and was accidental in nature but a fortunate one until the succeeding trips back in 2006 and last February this year. My 16-hour first stay in Singapore left me yearning for more and was one of the most fruitful and exhilarating trips of my life that's why I had to do it one more time and another time and whenever I go back, it never fails to amaze me every time.
That fateful little accident of 2005 was the start of my good relationship with a country that always spells happiness. Happiness because here I met different people of diverse cultures and got to swap stories of trips gone awry, anecdotes of funny and sometimes twisted sense of humor, accounts of breathtaking places and landmarks that left me changed, tales of mysterious discovery of amazing off-the-beaten tracks, chronicles of people and cultures with different means of self-expression and narratives of personal failures and triumphs. Happiness because I got to have a somewhat unofficial survey of social mores, satisfying indulgences and neat what-to-do revelations and found out that we may be of different colors but dig deeper and you may find yourselves alike in more ways than one. And true money can’t buy happiness and sometimes the desire of materials things can be a deterrent pill to enjoy life that's why whenever I visit Singapore, I try everything not just shopping, no stones left unturned. For indeed, it's the total cultural immersion; the interactions and relationships you have from the immigration officials as you enter the country's territory until that last person you will meet that really count.
I have always been grateful for that first trip decided in haste but ended up as a saving grace; that when I go back to my own life however chaotic or dull it may be, I have that 16 hours to go back to, to keep me sane, to take back my depleted energy and to keep that soul alive, that despite the not-so-good things that have happened and might happen in the future, despite some shattered goals and sometimes defeated spirits, I have found a beautiful friend in Singapore and because of that, I can face anything with a smile.
What can I say, I was tagged, marked and resigned to honor this wonderful place and this is my sweet revenge all in a day's work.
Just some quirks I find positively entertaining in Singapore:
Nobody minds what you wear. Be it the shorts short of all shorts or the long johns of longs, showing some cleavage or just some space in between your bosom or letting everyone know that peeking butt crack is cool. They really don’t mind and care as long you do it within the limits of decency. It's their form of self-expression and being considered as the Asia's creative hub; they have donned it even in the streets and public transports.
Locals have their own English they call Singlish. It's a language that you'll get used to though when you stay for at least a year but kind of hard when you just step off right from the airplane. They also put some -ya after every sentence that I once thought a guy from the store is waiting for answer when he had thrown a declarative sentence at me.
They don’t complete you. You don't have to complete your sentence with the prescribed articles, prepositions or the small words you put in between your words to connect as long as the basic words are there. They are not really much focused on grammar as long as you understand each other I guess.
The MRT and buses (despite being double-deck and aplenty) are always swelling with people even on holidays. We had the chance to be there on a Chinese New Year and though all the stores are close, there will always be great places to go to. And by that way, there's really not much to do during Chinese New Year and most of the people there have their long overdue vacay during that time.
They are big on brands. It's like you're shopping for that perfect LV bag or the comfortable Gucci shoes when you look at everyone, everywhere you go. Locals and expats here have been quite an avid wearer of branded clothes and are not afraid to let everyone know. Branded names are a local staple here so think twice when bringing fake stuff or wearing one or better yet, leave them at home.
Most don’t mind what you do in public and everyone respects your privacy. I once saw a couple French kissing at the MRT and nobody even dared look at them. I think I was the only one for about 1/60 of a sec. I apologize.
Sweets and local desserts are aplenty and it would always be like spinning the wheel of fortune whenever choosing the best dessert that will perfectly complement your breakfast, lunch, dinner etc .
I have always been fascinated by different cultures and Singaporeans have a charm and a sense of humor uniquely their own. I have, since 2005, loved the quirkiness of the place and the people and everything that have shaped and molded them and made them who they are today. I have always been enchanted by their discipline and strength and though I wouldn't be able to fully understand their culture, I have come to realize that I can always be a friend to them.
Thursday, August 30, 2012
Things to do before eternity
Things to do before eternity:
TRAVEL
1. Travel to Europe, Australia, Canada, Russia, Korea, (Siem Reap) Cambodia, Japan, Saigon, Beijing, Shanghai, Taiwan, Latin America, New Zealand, Brunei, Jakarta, Bali, Phuket
2. Travel to Batanes, Abra, Banawe, Camarines Sur & Norte, Marinduque, Capiz, Guimaras, Zamboanga, Basilan, Camiguin, Siquijor, Coron, El Nido
FAMILY
1. Treat my parents to one local destination and one international destination
2. Treat my sisters to one overnight getaway
3. Treat my in laws to one escapade
COUPLE
1. Pay our condo unit in 5 years.
2. Retire earlier than 65.
3. Save for emergency fund.
4. Save for Johan’s college education.
5. Invest some more
6. Have and emergency fund
SELF
1. Write and publish a book.
2. Run a marathon
3. Learn one language and be fluent in it.
4. Learn to really drive.
5. Complete one series of Simbang Gabi.
6. Skinny dip
OTHERS
1. Provide a scholarship to a kid
2. Spend a birthday in an orphanage
More to come…
TRAVEL
1. Travel to Europe, Australia, Canada, Russia, Korea, (Siem Reap) Cambodia, Japan, Saigon, Beijing, Shanghai, Taiwan, Latin America, New Zealand, Brunei, Jakarta, Bali, Phuket
2. Travel to Batanes, Abra, Banawe, Camarines Sur & Norte, Marinduque, Capiz, Guimaras, Zamboanga, Basilan, Camiguin, Siquijor, Coron, El Nido
FAMILY
1. Treat my parents to one local destination and one international destination
2. Treat my sisters to one overnight getaway
3. Treat my in laws to one escapade
COUPLE
1. Pay our condo unit in 5 years.
2. Retire earlier than 65.
3. Save for emergency fund.
4. Save for Johan’s college education.
5. Invest some more
6. Have and emergency fund
SELF
1. Write and publish a book.
2. Run a marathon
3. Learn one language and be fluent in it.
4. Learn to really drive.
5. Complete one series of Simbang Gabi.
6. Skinny dip
OTHERS
1. Provide a scholarship to a kid
2. Spend a birthday in an orphanage
More to come…
My Bangkok Experience (Jurassic Post)
Jurassic post=)
My Bangkok Experience (Nov 2-7, 2007)
DAY 1 –
Arrived early morning, 2 am Bangkok time. Just so you know, Bangkok is an hour behind the Philippines. Checked in at Shanti Lodge, a nice little Bohemian place in Sri Ayuthya Road; a block away from the tourist backpackers’ area of Khoasan Road.
From the airport, we took a cab drive. It’s around 30 minutes away from the airport. The airport taxi costs us 900 Baht. This is not a good price but when you are too sleepy to haggle and the people have a language of their own and English is not one of them then 900 Baht is worth all the hassle.
The driver asked boldly for a tip, a little blatant for me, so we gave him 20 Baht.
Bangkok is so much like the Philippines; too many flyovers and the view from the airport going to the city is not that fabulous.
DAY 2 –
Woke up at 11 am. Went to Grand Palace. It is so frustrating to ask for directions from the locals because they really don’t understand or speak English. If ever you find one, they have a very scant vocabulary so be patient and walk or find someone who can and be courteous just the same.
Boarded a taxi; a nice Thai with good manners and who speaks/understands little English. From the National Library, it took us about 20 minutes to Grand Palace. By the way, no one understands the correct pronunciation of Grand Palace or no one that we met. They pronounce it as Grand Palet.
Sidelights: Please avoid tuktuks. Some people would say that the Bangkok experience will never be complete without riding tuktuks but it is not for the faint hearted. Ride at your own risk. Tuktuk seems to be like gas/oil prices, overpriced and rising, fluctuating. What 45 Baht to a taxi, they want 80 Baht for their service.
Grand Palace is really grand in the true sense of the word; intricate artwork, elaborate designs, unfathomable creation; the hard work and dedication and patience put into that great masterpiece is worthy of a Nobel. Though bring umbrella or wear a hat because the heat especially in November is unbearable; bring water too. The configuration of the whole compound is not really tourist friendly for me; you just go blindly from one masterpiece to another; you can rent an audio guide to know the history without the hassle; no guide from the temple; roam at your own risk, at your own pace. 250 Baht for seeing Thailand’s one-of-a-kind architecture but it was worth it.
From Grand Palace, we went to Jatujak (Chatuchak), the ultimate haven in shopping for bargain stuff. If you’re like me who live for bargain stuff but quality fashion then this is the place to be. Greenhills less 70% off the price; haggle with a smile. Be courteous, respectful and have a sense of humor because you’ll need that when you’re trying to communicate in perfect grammar or broken English but still no one understands you. There are hip stores, local designers and one-of-a-kind shops. It is only open on weekends.
From Jatujak (Chatuchak) to Shanti Lodge – disaster, frustrating to get a taxi. It took us about 2 hours to get a taxi. No one knows the place even if we are armed with maps and directions in Thai. We thought it is too far or they just don’t want to go there but a nice lady from the market told us it’s because going there is famous for bad traffic. We got one though for 200 Baht. Now taxis/drivers are beginning to look like little monsters or those corrupt officials who won’t move without a price.
Things I observed first-hand in Bangkok in just 2 days:
1. Traffic is really bad and the road convoluted; drivers just strike anywhere. Didn’t see much traffic enforcers
2. Few English speaking people – need I say more
3. Taxi drivers don’t use meters; just like in Manila, they just haggle the price
4. Tuktuk – compare it to nothing. Hate people who take advantage of tourists.
Day 3 –
Woke up at 8:30 am; experienced authentic Thai massage at its best; the local Thai masseuse was very efficient and courteous; had to stifle a yawn. Lunch at Shanti. If you’re staying in this place, please do try their super yummy food; organic and very well prepared. Try their pasta Marinara, ala-Siam, Pad Thai, Shanti Delight, fruit platter, spring rolls – the best!
Went to a gem store; genuine stones, authentic jewelry at lesser price. They even issue a certificate to prove that their jewelry/stones are the real ones; they have free drinks and personal guide inside the store and if you happen to forget to ask the taxi to wait for you, they offer and provide free shuttle to your chosen destination anywhere in Bangkok free of charge. They value the safety of their customers. That’s what I call true customer service.
Went to Siam Paragon; took an MRT and a BTS. Though it has been modernized, it is not really that well organized and well connected unlike in Singapore where you just change lanes to go to the other line. From Jatujak (Chatuchak), we rode the MRT but the direction is not really clear so we had to ask someone for help. Luckily, two students are going to Siam Paragon so they helped us. When changing trains, we had to go out and find the nearest BTS.
Siam Paragon is a high-end mall of great proportion. It’s the whole package; mall, movie house, ocean world, food court, everything you need is there.
Went to famous Pratunam, it was the Divisoria of Bangkok with even lesser price; if you’re buying wholesale, you can check this out but if not I suggest you just check out Jatujak (Chatuchak) or MBK (also near Siam Center).
Day 4 –
Went to Siam Paragon, Siam Discovery, Siam Center, Siam Ocean World Bangkok. Entrance fee costs 750 Baht includes glass bottom boat, 4D IMAX, freebies etc. Shopped around the MBK area. There is a hip trendy area in Siam Center catering to the young urban market. Saw a lot of students, Japanese, Koreans. Prices compared to the nearby MBK and Pratunam.
Day 5 –
Went to Pratunam, the Divisoria of Bangkok but with really, really low prices if you buy wholesale. Kinda humid, really hot so wear comfy clothes and shoes, bring water and be careful. Signs are aplenty warning people to take good care of their belongings.
Bangkok is one whole shopping experience. Retail therapy at its best. Your 20 thousand will go a long, long way. There are some experiences I’d rather forget in Bangkok but one thing is for sure, if I need some retail therapy for problems better left unsaid, then I’d prolly well definitely go back!
Tuktuks are better left not experienced. They haggle as if you are a moron and you don’t know that 10 meters is so short a distance for a stupendous fare. Aside from that, the drivers are reckless, snaking their way to every imaginable and unimaginable routes. They are not polite, non-English speakers and some if not most of them shout to get the message across.
Friday, August 17, 2012
Our Amazing Coron Palawan Tour (August 2-7, 2012)
August is our anniversary month. Last year, we had Johan’s baptism done on our first anniversary. This year, we booked the Coron tour to spend some quality time together. We were hoping to see all of Coron that’s why we booked 6 days. However, habagat has other plans. The rain in Coron is not the same in Manila but the waves and the winds are a different story. Our itinerary includes town tour, island tour, Malcapuya/banana island tour and Calauit safari tour. We are also planning on the Culion tour but in the end, we only got the town tour and the 2 island tours. No regrets. Safety of course is our priority. And at the end of the day, the important thing is that we are together on our special day and we are safe. It is just unfortunate that we caught Coron at a time when the weather is bad but it’s ok, life goes on and we still enjoyed Coron despite the weather. This is a long read but I hope you enjoy it and I hope you find it helpful if and when you decide to go to Coron. Happy reading!
DAY 1.
On time pick up. Nice and courteous driver. Just 5 minutes away from the airport, we saw a herd of cows blocking our way. Our driver told us that it was once owned by a Marcos crony but since it was sequestered, the government now owns the ranch and the cows. There are fat and thin cows. Why is it that when the government takes anything, it just goes down the drain. Too bad, it was once the biggest ranch in Asia. Sequestered or not, we should take good care of these animals and properties. Wala silang kasalanan sa atin. Yun lang naman.
30-45 minutes of travel time from Busuanga airport to Coron town proper. The van that brought us to Coron Town has wifi, complete with LCD TV, good sound, good vibes. Makwento rin si manong. Side story: he is not from Coron but from Fairview. He went there kasi andun ang brother nya.
When we arrived at hotel, check in was fast with the courteous and smiling staff. We just paid P500 for the deposit which is refundable when you check out. We also signed waiver forms and read the rules and regulations of the hotel and then off to our room.
Coron town tour
The town of Coron is really small. Everything is within 5-10 minute distance or P8-10 peso tricyle ride. Their tricycle can accommodate at least 6 people. We had a tricycle for our town tour although I paid for an exclusive van. Anyway, it was a different experience din naman riding the tricycle around town. Truly local. We visited the town plaza-very typical of any province in the Philippines, Lualhati park-named after the mother or grandmama of the governor (the same governor who was hiding because he was a suspect in the slaying of a journalist in Puerto Prinsesa), this park sits in the reclaimed area near the market, San Agustin church-Coron's patron saint, Mt.Tapyas viewing deck-we climbed all the 724 steps but it was worth it. The view is to die for and breathtaking. We saw the whole of Coron as well as the sleeping giant. Lastly, we went to Maquinit Hotspring-around 15 minutes from the town. It was really hot. Around 38 degrees. The list of tour includes a local souvenir shop and a local cashew factory but not sure why we didn’t go there. Forgot to ask about it.
Dinner at Lolo Nonoy's Food Station. We ordered pork sisig, embotido and grilled chicken. All yummy. We tried ordering their vegetable dish but it is not available at that time.
DAY 2.
Coron island tour
On our 2nd day, pickup is at 830am for our island tour. Went to Siete Picados-seven wonderful rock formations over a vast expanse of clear blue and green water. Lovely is such a weak adjective to describe this. This was our first stop and it surely impressed us. Then off to Twin Peak Reef-underwater activity to see the beautiful landscape down under. Fish and other sea creatures are abundant in this area. Colorful and astonishing. There are some corals too. I suggest you bring your underwater camera.
We were supposed to have lunch at Banol beach but the waves are really strong so we had lunch at the Shipwreck. They have this makeshift hut wherein half your body is submerged in the water especially during high tide. We ate a feast there.
After lunch, we passed by Banol beach then to Coral Garden-the coral reef here is amazing. We had a marvelous time looking under the sea. You should not miss this. Last stop is the Twin Lagoon-you have to climb a steep wooden stair if high tide or crawl under the rocks during low tide. The water is perfect, a mix of hot and cold; it is calm like a huge swimming pool. Our tour guide Kuya Noy showed us a little cave under. Merienda is puto coron. A little past 5, we're done.
Dinner at Centro Coron and Coronzy Coffee and Tea-a new place in town. Love the food. You should check this out. Ordered pork caldereta and sizzling squid, garlic rice, bavarian tea and cookies.
DAY 3
On our 3rd day, we were supposed to have our Calauit Safari Tour but heavy rains, zero visibility, rough and dangerous roads prevented us from going there. The coast guards also do not allow tour there as it is dangerous due to heavy rains in Busuanga. So we were given Option 2. Same island hopping but different islands. We went to Kayangan Lake-the famous overlooking lake. I’ve seen this all over the net. But being there is different. Actually seeing it is surreal but nice. You had to climb hundreds of steps going up to get to the top and have your pictures taken with Kayangan lake as backdrop and and another steep climb down to the beautiful Kayangan Lake. We went spelunking in one of the caves inside Kayangan lake and it was scary but memorable and so worth it.
Next is the Twin Peek Reef which we already visited the day before. We had lunch at Balinsasayaw floating house-or more like a hut in the middle of the sea. Eating here is amazing. Amidst the waves and the current and the wind, we had a feast of crabs, loro fish, chicken, salad, banana. As the strong waves crashed while eating lunch, we were reminded of how remarkable and blessed we are to have experienced this.
Then we're off to CYC beach or Coron Youth Club beach, went to see the corals and the colorful fish. The waves and the current were too strong that's why we had a hard time staying still. Lastly the coral garden for the 2nd time.
Dinner at Coron Bistro with new friends. It's an almost authentic Italian place. Really good food. Value for money. Ordered their pizza of Bistro and Margerita, the smoked ham and bread, vegetable pasta and Basilico pasta. All perfectly done.
DAY 4.
On our 4th day, we were kinda disappointed that we cannot go to Malcapuya, Banana and Bulog Dos islands. Due to heavy rains, strong winds and waves. We stayed in the hotel and sleep it off for half the day.
Then we had lunch at Kawayanan Grill. Ordered ensaladang talbos ng kamote, kasuy, peanut, seafood grill with lato, chicken. We tried to order other dish but they are currently unavailable at that time. We can only review what we had. We were not really satisfied with the food we ordered. The grilled seafood I had is dry, not juicy, not tasty. The chicken is ok but it could be better. The ensalada is just ok. Steamed talbos ng kamote and bagoong. Nothing fancy. All in I don’t feel like it is value for money.
Because it's Sunday, we had mass at San Agustin Church. One of the most solemn masses we have ever heard. They even turned off the lights during the presentation of the body and blood of Christ, everyone held hands during the Lord's Prayer, clapped several times to thank God for the celebration, the homily is a reflection of the simple life Coronians has. But not sure if priests are mandated to talk about RH bill. The priest there touched a little about the subject. Anyway, it is still solemn and tagos sa puso at buto.
Dinner take 2 at Bistro Coron. I love Italian food and this place made my day. We ordered Margerita pizza, Bistro salad, Hungarian sausage with spiral pasta. Yummy!
DAY 5
On our 5th day, still no tour. Heavier rains day and night. Hard to go out. Today I miss my baby Johan. Although I call my mom and yaya everyday to check on Johan, I still miss him. His smell and his hugs and kisses. Ako yata ang may separation anxiety sa baby ko. Anyway, 1 day to go na lang and we’ll be home soon.
Our new friends left today for Manila but they informed us that their flight had been delayed from morning to later this afternoon.
We just slept in the hotel and wait for lunch time to go out.
Lunch at Manneken Pis, a Belgian restaurant owned of course by a Belgian and his Filipina wife. We ordered Bolognese fusili, Salami pizza, Belgian fries and pancakes. The foods are delicious and affordable.
After lunch, it rained hard again so we had no choice but to go back to the hotel. Went out as soon as the rain stopped which is around late in the afternoon. We went to the reclamation area they call Lualhati Park and had their delicious bbq and tenga ng baboy by the sea. Walked around the park and found that Koreans are aplenty in Coron. Hindi rin nila ito pinalampas. They are everywhere talaga but they also bring also good business with them in Coron. Not that I am complaining. We even tried their halo-halo Korean style at Ice Valley.
Dinner is at Centro Coron again. Ordered sisig and tuna steak. We had a chat with the manager of Centro Coron and we found out that he is actually from Pampanga and made his living here. One thing I observed in Coron, some establishments are owned not by people from Coron but from other towns. Could be that these people love the place and would want to go back again and again and the best way to do that is to take roots and invest there. That's why they have their business there.
At around 9, we called it a night and went back to the hotel for an early flight tomorrow. It was raining again but not that hard as compared to the one experienced by Manila on the same time that we were in Coron. I have learned from this trip that no matter how well you prepare, you are no match for the wrath of nature and the advice of the coast guards. Hehehe! It is just unfortunate that we visited Coron at a time when the weather is not that good. But we had fun anyway. What matters is that we were together during our second anniversary and that's all good no matter where we are.
DAY 6
On our 6th day, it’s time to go home. The sun was peeking when we woke up on our last day in Coron. Our flight back home is at 1045am via Cebu Pacific. We had a light breakfast at the Coron Ecolodge and had our refund for the trip that we did not take (Calauit Safari). Left the hotel at 830am for our 30 minute trip to Busuanga airport. It was a breeze passing thru the security check as we don't have anything to declare. Easy check in at the Cebu Pacific counter. Not sure why there are only a few passengers. Maybe because of the heavy rains in Manila that some people decided not to take the trip to Coron.
Our plane arrived on time but left 15 minutes late of our scheduled time because the pilot was advised of the airport traffic in Manila. Due to the super heavy rain also in Manila, we weren't able to land in time. We had to circle above for about 15-30 minutes before we were cleared of the runway.
To tell you how it is, we had a small plane, the ATR turbo-prop aircraft. I guess because of the small runway so you can just imagine the impact of the turbulence as we hit the air pockets and the heavy rains. I can feel it to the bones. I was praying all throughout the flight back for a safe trip and safer landing. My friend who was a former FA in Cebu Pacific also assured us that smaller planes are safer and they have a good chance of landing safely because they glide in the air and rain. I don’t know but it helped. Good thing also that the pilot was kind and nice enough to inform us of the status of our flight. He assured us that we are doing ok and we are in good hands. We landed safely at about 1pm. But we were stranded at the airport due to heavy rain, flooded areas and no taxi is willing to bring us home to Fairview and to our Johan. Finally, at about midnight we found a very willing driver that will take us home. We forgot to get his name but he is an angel to us. Past midnight we were home again and cuddling Johan in our arms.
Where to eat: (those we tried)
Lolo Nonoy's Food Station (paid P500 for 2 pax)
Centro Coron (twice) - (first meal at P1100 for 2 pax; second meal at P440)
Bistro Coron (twice) – (first meal at P700 for 2 pax; second meal at P800)
Kawayanan Grill Station –(paid P800)
Manneken Pis- (paid P700)
BBQ station near the market-forgot to check how much
Ice Valley-P240 for 2 pax
You can try:
La Sirenetta
Seafood Dive Restaurant
Magkatabi lang sila pero magkaiba ng entrance. Dinner by the sea. You won’t miss these 2 restaurants because this is where the boats dock. The boats that will take you to the different islands in Coron.
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