I've been asked this question a gazillion times and I always feel that people are exaggerating.
Firstly, I don't travel "a lot". Secondly, they always make me feel weird about myself everytime I answer the question. It's as if I am from a different world unfamiliar to them and they give me that "don't-brag-about-your-travel" look.
Personally, I firmly believe that LIFE is SHORT, cliche as it may sound! I've consider myself goal-oriented and knows what I want. Life is short so why not enjoy it while you still can?! My way of enjoying it is seeing the world as much as I can. For some people, they enjoy life by working their asses off or taking care of their families. Others are contented with their inner world (whatever that is). That is perfectly alright...as long as they are happy doing it.
The world that I want to enjoy are the places outside my comfort zone, the unfamiliar and sometimes unknown. I remember my first flight outside my hometown Cebu, my eyes were wide in amazement at how that little plane could take us to another place in less than an hour, above the clouds. The people in Manila were different from us Cebuanos. Although I was with my parents, I took notice of how we treat each other differently and at how we respond to good and not so nice situations. That experience opened my mind to the possibility that it will be much more different and difficult in another country. For awhile in my adult years, I never dreamt of traveling outside Philippines because of fear that I will be treated differently. I was too comfortable wandering in my little hometown and quite often visited other islands as well.
My relocation to Singapore opened a whole new world for me in terms of understanding others, adapting well to difficult situations, eagerness to learn something new and seeing more places. When you are in a place with nothing and no one familiar, you either accept or leave. I am glad I've decided to open my mind broadly enough that I been loving this place for 5 years.
Ever since, I've been craving and dreaming to visit a new place. I've been to quite a few now on my list and I'm still adding up more :) I always feel I am a different person when I am travelling and that emotion makes me feel peaceful inside. Even in difficult situations where patience is tested to the limit, I've become more accepting and humble. Of course it varies from person to person.
So why exactly do I travel "so much"? I reckoned, I just want to waste my money on experiences that I don't normally encounter/learn/emerge myself with in my comfort zone. If that is wrong, then I don't want to be right :)
Showing posts with label Wanderlusting. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Wanderlusting. Show all posts
June 15, 2012
June 13, 2012
Coz travel stories are meant to be shared...
YES! I have decided to reincarnate my almost dead blog :)
I realized I could not design a blog of my own and css codes are just too much for my little brain to handle thus I am back to blogspot. Nevermind that I purchased a domain and tried to make my own travel website but to no avail. So I am back! :)
I promise to tell you stories about my recent travels and previous ones that I have yet to sort out photos :) I am soo lazy at this kind of thing, sorting out photos that is. Makes me miss the place all the more, yet it gives me a different kind of excitement.
For the next couple of days or months, I will share the awesome and not-so nice experiences we had while backpacking in Europe with my sister, the two weeks break I had (because I resigned from work) and backpacked to Bangkok, Laos and Koh Samui, the first time we joined a package tour in Chiang Mai Thailand, the relaxing/pampered trip we had in Melbourne and Sydney with my mum and my recent birthday trip to Bali. Looooong list! Expect an overload of photos soon. Watch this space! =)
Meantime, while I dissect words to post, enjoy my current favorite travel song ^_^
Btw, who knows how to edit my header so I can add a background photo in it? :D
I realized I could not design a blog of my own and css codes are just too much for my little brain to handle thus I am back to blogspot. Nevermind that I purchased a domain and tried to make my own travel website but to no avail. So I am back! :)
I promise to tell you stories about my recent travels and previous ones that I have yet to sort out photos :) I am soo lazy at this kind of thing, sorting out photos that is. Makes me miss the place all the more, yet it gives me a different kind of excitement.
For the next couple of days or months, I will share the awesome and not-so nice experiences we had while backpacking in Europe with my sister, the two weeks break I had (because I resigned from work) and backpacked to Bangkok, Laos and Koh Samui, the first time we joined a package tour in Chiang Mai Thailand, the relaxing/pampered trip we had in Melbourne and Sydney with my mum and my recent birthday trip to Bali. Looooong list! Expect an overload of photos soon. Watch this space! =)
Meantime, while I dissect words to post, enjoy my current favorite travel song ^_^
Btw, who knows how to edit my header so I can add a background photo in it? :D
October 01, 2011
A Grateful Journey
"Many people are conflicted. They want to fulfill their dreams and yet are afraid to fulfill those same dreams. Why does that happen? Because wishes are unfamiliar territory.
And what is unfamiliar is scary."
Everyone who knows me well, know that I am a Jason Mraz fangirl. I'm actually not just a fangirl but deeply, completely in love with this guy :D He is talented, inspiring, humble, vegetarian and loves the world. Complete package.
He is currently on a world tour this year and will soon be visiting Asia particularly Philippines, Taiwan, Thailand and Bali. And I am happy to announce that I will again see him perform LIVE in Manila. Oh my Gosh!!! I have mixed emotions about the whole thing. The initial plan was to watch him in Thailand because the date falls on a long weekend in Singapore. However, I can't wait! It hit me last night that I have to see him very very soon :D Thank you to my friend who helped me in buying the ticket in Manila. I AM OVERJOYED! And did I mention that I bought a FRONT ROW TICKET???? Yes, I DID! That's number 16 in my bucket list. Woohhooo!!! I am excited for October 30 to come fast! And thank you to Cebu Pacific for the ticket promo on my travel date. More woohhhooo! Mr. Universe, high five!
Watch and be inspired with this first documentary trailer of his own Grateful Journey in Morocco.
Be love!
September 19, 2011
Recovering from the Travel Bug Bite...
...if there's such a word :)))
Hello blog, i missed you! Sorry for staring at that new post blank page for few weeks now. I just don't know what to write or how to start. My three weeks wander lusting was causing me too much memory overload that it almost made my brain explode. There were just too many beautiful sights and experiences to remember and my ordinary brain cannot handle the overlapping of snapshots. The thousand photos didn't even help, actually it made the situation even worst - instead of typing the words, I always end up staring and browsing for more photos.
But today is different because I've finally decided to compartmentalize and turned on my brain to come up with the most "jaw-dropping" come back post. Teehheee =)
I guess when you're bitten by the travel bug, you need to refresh yourself slowly but surely. When I came back, I didn't literally experienced jetlag because I was forced to overcome it due to work. But I noticed that after my first week, I became too lazy to do something productive and was just too comfortable slacking off. And it didn't do me any good, for one, I was not able to post anything here and two, I missed a lot of updates from friends because I was "almost-always" unreachable. Luckily, I have recovered and ready to plan for the next trip :D
Meantime, while I edit some photos, let me share to you some snapshot of the places I visited in Europa =)
Hello blog, i missed you! Sorry for staring at that new post blank page for few weeks now. I just don't know what to write or how to start. My three weeks wander lusting was causing me too much memory overload that it almost made my brain explode. There were just too many beautiful sights and experiences to remember and my ordinary brain cannot handle the overlapping of snapshots. The thousand photos didn't even help, actually it made the situation even worst - instead of typing the words, I always end up staring and browsing for more photos.
But today is different because I've finally decided to compartmentalize and turned on my brain to come up with the most "jaw-dropping" come back post. Teehheee =)
I guess when you're bitten by the travel bug, you need to refresh yourself slowly but surely. When I came back, I didn't literally experienced jetlag because I was forced to overcome it due to work. But I noticed that after my first week, I became too lazy to do something productive and was just too comfortable slacking off. And it didn't do me any good, for one, I was not able to post anything here and two, I missed a lot of updates from friends because I was "almost-always" unreachable. Luckily, I have recovered and ready to plan for the next trip :D
Meantime, while I edit some photos, let me share to you some snapshot of the places I visited in Europa =)
City of Arts and Museum, Valencia Spain
Santo Tome, Toledo Spain
Palacio Real, Madrid Spain
Sagrada Familia, Barcelona Spain
Colosseum, Rome Italy
St. Peter's Basilica, Rome Italy
Palazzo Vecchio, Florence Italy
Emmanuel Vittorio Shopping Mall, Milan Italy
Gondola by the bridge, Venice Italy
Eiffel Tower, Paris France
Enjoy and happy week ahead!
August 10, 2011
Long term travel and my Inspirations.
After reading enormous travel blogs for my trip, I feel like I've been transported to places they've visited. I noticed that most travelers, backpackers or even travel bloggers have one constant dream...to travel long term around the world - may it be for months or 1 year. Obviously, after allowing myself to be transported, I am inspired to do a long term travel too :) But how? The first difficult question to answer :D (I will figure out the answer soon :)
Tomorrow will be the start of my European dream. It will be my first longest trip outside Philippines and Singapore. Three weeks is actually not enough to cover and visit the places I wanted to visit but needless to say, enough to see the famous areas...for now. I would have wanted to extend and backpack to other cities but like most employed travelers' excuse..work got in the way :D Anyhoo, I will have my time soon and I will surely cover as many places I want and immerse myself to the culture and talk to as many locals as possible :)
So you wonder where I got all these crazy ideas??? Of course, from the equally-crazy-but-passionate-travelers... They're all Filipinos, by the way :) Yes, we are capable of long term travels too :D
Here are some excerpts from a PhilStar blogger interview about long term traveling.
1. FlipNomad
What made you decide to travel long term?
Flipnomad: I have always wanted to travel the world (or some parts of it). I tried having vacations every year when I was still employed and realized that it’s an expensive way to do it. Flying back and forth to your home country cost a lot compared to having a continuous journey. Another reason is I want to travel continuously just like the travelers that I’ve met on the road. I was inspired by them to live this unconventional life of being a “nomad."
2. Lillian Cobiao - I learned a lot from her. And got really helpful tips for my trip especially on how to pack light :) Before reading her, I have a 3 week worth of clothes and amazingly, I managed to pack good for 10days only. Imagine my husband's surprise and worries :)))
What advice can you give those who are considering traveling long term?
Lilliane: Do it! It's going to be life-changing I'm so sure. Also travel slowly, live the local life, don't plan too much. Let the moment decide your destiny. Of course, always be careful and paranoid.
What's great about traveling long term?
Lois and Chichi: You have so much time to immerse yourself in the culture, get to know the locals, experience more than what the guidebook suggests.
These people made it sound so easy to prepare and travel long term. Reading and following them made me realize how much I wanted to see the world but at the same time reminded me of my priorities. If long term travel is not at hand in the near future, I am happy to settle for short trips and adventures for the meantime.
How about you? What are your latest adventures and crazy ideas?
August 05, 2011
MOVE! A Beautiful Short Film
MOVE from Rick Mereki on Vimeo.
This video has been circulating widely and fast. Even myself cannot resist sharing it to the world. I've shared it in Facebook and Tumblr, now I'm posting it here :D It's pure creativity and brains.
This one is about movement through traveling. I don't know if that is the filmmaker's goal but in my opinion, it is :D
Brilliant!
Also check out two other videos related to this. Click here and here.
August 02, 2011
Plane passengers' "BILL of RIGHTS" - It's time we Know!
Have you come across any bad behavior of your fellow plane passengers? Have you felt the discomfort of a noisy and irritating seatmate? How about passengers rushing to leave when its not yet time?
I hear you, guys!
This morning, I received a delightful email in my inbox. Something to ponder on...something really helpful! I am glad people from Lonely Planet decided to create a survey and write this article. It's about time that we know our rights as passengers in any airplane and know the proper behavior we should exhibit to enjoy our flight, whether in 1 hour or 13 hours.
So, here's the list known as The Passengers' Airplane Behavior Bill of Rights.
Article I: The right to remove shoes
I hope we learn a thing or two from this article and try our best to apply it during our future travels. To know more about the result of the survey they conducted, please click here.
I hear you, guys!
This morning, I received a delightful email in my inbox. Something to ponder on...something really helpful! I am glad people from Lonely Planet decided to create a survey and write this article. It's about time that we know our rights as passengers in any airplane and know the proper behavior we should exhibit to enjoy our flight, whether in 1 hour or 13 hours.
So, here's the list known as The Passengers' Airplane Behavior Bill of Rights.
Article I: The right to remove shoes
Passengers shall be allowed to remove shoes from their feet, but only if the aforementioned feet don’t stink or present health risks to other passengers. The right of the passenger to go to the lavatory without shoes shall not be infringed, as it is really your own business should you want to stand in the urine of others.
Article II: Freedom from unreasonable aromatic assault
No passenger shall, in the time of flight, be subjected to unreasonable aromas, be it from powerful perfume, foods redolent of onion, or other fragrance wholly unnecessary whilst on an airplane.
No passenger shall, in the time of flight, be subjected to unreasonable aromas, be it from powerful perfume, foods redolent of onion, or other fragrance wholly unnecessary whilst on an airplane.
Article III: The right to reasonable light
All passengers shall be allowed the right to use their own overhead light to read when the cabin lights are turned off, as that is its intended use. No passenger shall be unwillingly bothered by the thoughtless opening of window shades during this period; window seat passengers are not delegated the power to blind their fellow passengers.
All passengers shall be allowed the right to use their own overhead light to read when the cabin lights are turned off, as that is its intended use. No passenger shall be unwillingly bothered by the thoughtless opening of window shades during this period; window seat passengers are not delegated the power to blind their fellow passengers.
Article IV: The article of reclension
A well-justified act of reclining one’s seat shall not be prohibited at all times, apart from meal time and other times specified by the flight crew. All instances of reclension shall be preceded by a rearward glance so as not to unwittingly crush the patellas or portable electronic devices of the affected passenger.
A well-justified act of reclining one’s seat shall not be prohibited at all times, apart from meal time and other times specified by the flight crew. All instances of reclension shall be preceded by a rearward glance so as not to unwittingly crush the patellas or portable electronic devices of the affected passenger.
Article V: Freedom of no speech
There shall be no requirement for other passengers to listen to you drone on about your child, cat or other subject not directly germane to an immediate inflight emergency situation. The right of other passengers to give you the ‘book-off’ shall not be infringed, nor shall you assist with the answer to 14-across if unprompted.
There shall be no requirement for other passengers to listen to you drone on about your child, cat or other subject not directly germane to an immediate inflight emergency situation. The right of other passengers to give you the ‘book-off’ shall not be infringed, nor shall you assist with the answer to 14-across if unprompted.
Article VI: The right to bear armrestsIn all cases where an armrest is shared by two adjacent passengers, both parties must respect the right of the other to keep the armrest down. Passengers relegated to a middle seat shall be afforded special status, and aisle and window passengers shall endeavour to accommodate.
Article VII: Conditions of passenger quartersPassengers shall not be subject to the rubbish of others crammed thoughtlessly into seat-back pockets, or tossed onto the floor in a cavalier fashion. Chewing gum shall not be pressed to any surface affixed to an aircraft.
Article VIII: The right to heed the call of natureA well-organised attempt to use the lavatory, being necessary for inflight calm and gastrointestinal health, shall not be impeded by aisle passengers sleeping or otherwise. The rights of others waiting to use a lavatory shall supersede the frankly ill-advised wishes of current lavatory users to waste time poking around said lavatory.
Article IX: Provisions concerning use of electronic devices
The assurance of safety shall not be infringed by the desires of others to make one last phone call, update their social network status to brag about their impending holiday, or to plant cauliflower in their virtual farm. WhilstMythBusters and others have debunked most potential dangers of using common electronic devices on planes, safety and calm shall take precedence.
The assurance of safety shall not be infringed by the desires of others to make one last phone call, update their social network status to brag about their impending holiday, or to plant cauliflower in their virtual farm. WhilstMythBusters and others have debunked most potential dangers of using common electronic devices on planes, safety and calm shall take precedence.
Article X: Cruel and unnecessary aisle cloggingNo passenger shall, in the time of disembarking, hastily grab their bag and congest the exit route before actual movement is possible. Likewise, when it comes time to exit, no passenger shall unaccountably act surprised that it is their turn to leave.
Article XI: Freedom from feral children
The right of passengers not to be kicked in the back, have their hair pulled, be presented with unasked-for mucous-moistened objects, or be otherwise assaulted by feral children shall not be infringed. Crying babies cannot be held accountable for their actions, and are therefore exempt.
The right of passengers not to be kicked in the back, have their hair pulled, be presented with unasked-for mucous-moistened objects, or be otherwise assaulted by feral children shall not be infringed. Crying babies cannot be held accountable for their actions, and are therefore exempt.
Article XII: The right of reasonable alcohol consumptionNo person, apart from those who are drunk and obnoxious or minors, shall be prohibited from imbibing an alcoholic beverage should they feel that it is a good idea, despite all indications to the contrary.
Article XIII: The right to private mediaReading over others’ shoulders shall not be inflicted, unless achieved in a particularly stealthy fashion causing no annoyance to the book holder. The same shall be true for films and other non-private media.
I hope we learn a thing or two from this article and try our best to apply it during our future travels. To know more about the result of the survey they conducted, please click here.
July 21, 2011
Hooked on Travel Deals!
Day by day, I've become almost impatient for another trip. But I have to remind myself to be still and wait for 3 more weeks. It's really such a loooooonnnggg wait! My itchy feet is craving for another train/ferry/plane ride =)
Just recently, I've discovered a new way to tame my wanderlust. I've hooked myself like almost everyday (that's 8 hours in the office consumed) to checking travel deals online. I am not referring to travel deals from sites such as those from agoda.com or asiaroom.com but rather sites such as these...
2 Tours in One Special (Beijing + Shanghai), $60 instead of $636, 91% off 5D4N Beijing Tour + 5D4N Shanghai Fantastic Tour + 4 Star Hotel + Meals
And a lot more...You may check this link for list of all deals. They have a list of almost everything - from food, spa, travel, fashion, beauty, workshop and even a hello kitty mahjong set :) So hurry and book your next travel! These are really tempting deals not to be missed =)
(Disclaimer: I am not paid to post this and convince you :P Just sharing my new found addiction :))
And a lot more...You may check this link for list of all deals. They have a list of almost everything - from food, spa, travel, fashion, beauty, workshop and even a hello kitty mahjong set :) So hurry and book your next travel! These are really tempting deals not to be missed =)
(Disclaimer: I am not paid to post this and convince you :P Just sharing my new found addiction :))
July 01, 2011
Travel Inspirations
Patiently waiting for my next trip...
Currently, wishing I can travel every weekend to places I haven't been.
So while I console myself, let me share to you some links that I've been drooling the past weeks.
Flight 001 - Window Seat
You can submit daily travel inspiration or travel photos to their website. Cool! Can be used if your planning for your next trip.
This City Called Earth
Simple but beautiful photos from all over the world.
Travel with my Camera
A photo blog by Ingrid Kjelling from Norway who is currently based in Perth, Australia. She has been travelling back and forth to Bali, Indonesia and capturing lovely photos of the place. Everytime I visit her blog, it makes me want to book a plane ticket to Bali instantly.
The photos above reminded me to share my travel photos too. I know, I have been really procrastinating and unluckily bitten by the lazy bug :D Please bear with me =)
Have a blessed weekend everyone! Discover something new :)
Currently, wishing I can travel every weekend to places I haven't been.
So while I console myself, let me share to you some links that I've been drooling the past weeks.
Flight 001 - Window Seat
You can submit daily travel inspiration or travel photos to their website. Cool! Can be used if your planning for your next trip.
This City Called Earth
Simple but beautiful photos from all over the world.
Travel with my Camera
A photo blog by Ingrid Kjelling from Norway who is currently based in Perth, Australia. She has been travelling back and forth to Bali, Indonesia and capturing lovely photos of the place. Everytime I visit her blog, it makes me want to book a plane ticket to Bali instantly.
The photos above reminded me to share my travel photos too. I know, I have been really procrastinating and unluckily bitten by the lazy bug :D Please bear with me =)
Have a blessed weekend everyone! Discover something new :)
June 17, 2011
Helpful Links to Solve your Food and Beach crave.
The husband and I were supposed to go to the beach this weekend for my first ever scuba dive but unfortunately, I am sick til now. I have yet to recover and recharge my body from all the exhaustion last weekend in Cebu. Anyhoo, I am hoping to feel well in the next couple of days and finally hop on the bus and ferry to an island next weekend =D
So I have been searching for islands/resorts near Singapore. I have been to Rawa Malaysia and I must say, the beaches there are awesome. Since then, I have been craving for more of Malaysia's islands and beaches. We've been planning for a trip to Tioman and again Rawa for the longest time but it's always cancelled for reasons I forgot :P Here are the beaches and resorts that we plan to visit very very soon.
1. Swiss Cottage in Tekek, Tioman Island. Of all the resorts in this island, this is the only place where I want to stay. I've read a lot of good reviews about this little resort. They are cozy and peaceful with friendly staffs. The only downside is they don't really encourage an overnight booking but if you do so, you have to wait like 2-3 days before your planned trip for confirmation of room availability. If you don't like the hassle, better book for a least two nights accommodation.
2. Alang's Rawa in Rawa Island. Because we were too impressed of Rawa Safari resort (another resort in Rawa island), we want to visit the island again but stay in a cheaper resort. Yes, there are only two resorts in this beautiful island - one expensive and one affordable :D And since, their rates are easy on the pockets, you have to make your booking like 3-4 months in advance to reserve your rooms. The bigger the group, the cheaper the package. Very good for a trip with friends and family.
When I celebrated my actual birthday last Saturday, no one bothered to buy me a cake :P I was fervently hoping I will blow some candles and devour on a chocolate cake but sadly there was none. So my craving for sweets and chocolatey cake went on.
While searching where to buy that chocolate cake, I found these links of food bloggers based in Singapore. How timely! They provided honest reviews of each patissiere.
1. Lady Iron Chef. Apparently, this blog is written by Brad Lau. Yes, he is male :)
2. Indulgence after Workout. I love how motivating the blog title is ;)
And I can't wait to go to Laurent Bernard's chocolate factory. I prefer to visit their shop in Portsdown road.
When is your next food and beach trip? Where do you plan to go?
While searching where to buy that chocolate cake, I found these links of food bloggers based in Singapore. How timely! They provided honest reviews of each patissiere.
1. Lady Iron Chef. Apparently, this blog is written by Brad Lau. Yes, he is male :)
2. Indulgence after Workout. I love how motivating the blog title is ;)
And I can't wait to go to Laurent Bernard's chocolate factory. I prefer to visit their shop in Portsdown road.
When is your next food and beach trip? Where do you plan to go?
June 09, 2011
Who said traveling to Europe is expensive?
I guess a lot of you will agree :) Yes? Yes!
Air tickets, hotel, train tickets and of course shopping, will surely cause havoc in your entire savings. But who would want to miss shopping in Europe? Not me! :)) However, due to budget constraints, I guess I would have to think twice, thrice or a million times before even thinking of touching my wallet. It will cause me a lot of stress for sure. (Please pray for me that I will come out alive from every shops and boutiques that will catch my fancy.)
So we've been planning our upcoming trip. And how did I survived?
First, we booked our air tickets way way advance like 7 months before our scheduled trip. This is very helpful if you are planning to visit the place during the summer season. I tell you, price could really increase sky rocket high.
Second, we plot out our itinerary (if you are visiting other cities). This took me quite awhile to decide because I want to visit the whole place, as in the whole continent. Of course, I am aware that I can't do that in a 3 week trip. So the decision whether to visit this place or that place was really tough. Finally we decided on three major countries. Plotting your itinerary will help you find the right and cheapest transportation and number of days you are staying in a place. I know how convenient travelling by train in Europe but actually it also helps you to save money and time if you travel by plane. There are a lot of budget airlines in Spain, Italy and France. And they're all way cheaper than those train tickets :D
Third, we booked our accommodation through the cheapest hostels we can find. Hostelbookers was such a sigh of relief while searching for a place to stay. This website is very efficient and complete. In just a few clicks, they can show you different cheap hostels complete with reviews and maps. We booked a dorm type room shared with 4 people for only 17euros per head. Quite a deal, isn't it? I mean we are going on August and its a peak season because it is summer.
Next on our list is booking the train tickets. I know its such a boohoo that we haven't booked this yet. You may ask my sister why :D I just hope we can still find a cheap deal because really the prices are unbelievable :( This is certainly on the books of stupid mistakes. Anyhoo, no choice for now but to wait.
I don't know if you find these information relevant but I hope in one way or another it does make sense to you. I've always considered myself a budget traveller. Any place I visit, I try to book the cheapest tickets and hostels. And I won't mind sleeping in the airport alone just so I can save a one night hotel accommodation :D I guess, I might be doing this in Barcelona. Wish me luck!
May 18, 2011
Travel Blogging...For real!
Okay, I failed again in the "updating" department and missed a whole month of blogging :P Forgive me people because I've been extremely busy daydreaming and imagining my future travel adventures :))) Anyhoo, I'm back - alive and kicking some arse!
It got me to thinking that since I love being out and about discovering new places, why not make some serious business updating this humble blog?! Okay, I can hear you all say "yeah, right! or we'll see, for how long" :P Fine! But seriously, I want to keep you posted and share my little adventures. It may take awhile to really get a grip of this whole updating thing but I will definitely try and try :) Wish me luck!
So while I plan for our next trip, here's a photo of our recent beach weekend in Bintan Lagoon Resort. The whole story will be another post :D
It got me to thinking that since I love being out and about discovering new places, why not make some serious business updating this humble blog?! Okay, I can hear you all say "yeah, right! or we'll see, for how long" :P Fine! But seriously, I want to keep you posted and share my little adventures. It may take awhile to really get a grip of this whole updating thing but I will definitely try and try :) Wish me luck!
So while I plan for our next trip, here's a photo of our recent beach weekend in Bintan Lagoon Resort. The whole story will be another post :D
December 07, 2010
Our Europe Dream - Need your Help!
Help us make our Europe tour come true!
- Go to www.myeuropeandream.com.
- Look for "Sharing a Dream in Europe" by Vonskie.
- Click on my dream cloud.
- Click "Like"! (When my "dream page" opens, it'll be on the upper right portion.)
Pretty please people! Thank you in advance!
Create your own dream too and share the link so I can like it!
The Art of Non-Conformity.
Have you ever thought of doing something unconventional? Something that most people would rather ignore? Something that you think impossible? Something that you are scared of?
I used to think that its impossible for me to travel to places I want to see. Even in my hometown, I was skeptical to visit nearby beaches and islands because they were too expensive for my meager salary. When I moved to Singapore for work, I found myself stuck in a place with less beauty. After less than 1 year, I realized i need to see other places other than this small country. So off I booked my first leisure travel abroad - Phuket, Thailand. That was in 2008.
Two years after and married, I am unstoppable. I've been to places so far listed in my Southeast Asia travel list. Yes, I have a separate travel list for each continents/region and the like :)) And I am still booking flights to my other dream places - islands in the Philippines, few more countries in Asiapac and another continent. 2011 sounds really exciting for me and my bestest travel buddy. We can't wait!
So, how is this related to my title? Because, i used to be the conventional girl. Some of my friends may find me strong in the outside but I am a fearful girl inside. The decision of working abroad was not even a plan more so a dream. I was very much contented with my clerical job and minimum salary back home. Then one day, i realized i need to do something if i want to go to places. So there, I landed in Singapore without a job but an overwhelming faith that I will soon get one. I left my comfort zone even if people told me my job and company was great. I chased independence away from my family even if i don't have the assurance i'll get a new job in this country.
What I'm trying to say is, you don't have to live your life the way other people expect you to. If you don't decide for yourself what you want to get out of life, someone else will probably end up deciding for you. These are some of the philosophies I lived up to and quoted from this guy, Chris Guillebeau, author of The Art of Non-Conformity. I recently found out that this guy has been doing unconventional things. He wrote a book, traveled the world and shared to people his unconventional ideas. His website is now included in my daily read because he is a genius.
If you want to learn more, subscribe to his email updates and be inspired. As much as I wanted to share more of my non-conforming ideas, i would rather want you to read him first than make a fool of myself :D.
I used to think that its impossible for me to travel to places I want to see. Even in my hometown, I was skeptical to visit nearby beaches and islands because they were too expensive for my meager salary. When I moved to Singapore for work, I found myself stuck in a place with less beauty. After less than 1 year, I realized i need to see other places other than this small country. So off I booked my first leisure travel abroad - Phuket, Thailand. That was in 2008.
Two years after and married, I am unstoppable. I've been to places so far listed in my Southeast Asia travel list. Yes, I have a separate travel list for each continents/region and the like :)) And I am still booking flights to my other dream places - islands in the Philippines, few more countries in Asiapac and another continent. 2011 sounds really exciting for me and my bestest travel buddy. We can't wait!
So, how is this related to my title? Because, i used to be the conventional girl. Some of my friends may find me strong in the outside but I am a fearful girl inside. The decision of working abroad was not even a plan more so a dream. I was very much contented with my clerical job and minimum salary back home. Then one day, i realized i need to do something if i want to go to places. So there, I landed in Singapore without a job but an overwhelming faith that I will soon get one. I left my comfort zone even if people told me my job and company was great. I chased independence away from my family even if i don't have the assurance i'll get a new job in this country.
What I'm trying to say is, you don't have to live your life the way other people expect you to. If you don't decide for yourself what you want to get out of life, someone else will probably end up deciding for you. These are some of the philosophies I lived up to and quoted from this guy, Chris Guillebeau, author of The Art of Non-Conformity. I recently found out that this guy has been doing unconventional things. He wrote a book, traveled the world and shared to people his unconventional ideas. His website is now included in my daily read because he is a genius.
If you want to learn more, subscribe to his email updates and be inspired. As much as I wanted to share more of my non-conforming ideas, i would rather want you to read him first than make a fool of myself :D.
December 03, 2010
Deals you should not miss.
You know in Facebook how ads are popping up like mushrooms? Yes, there are! From clothes, shoes, bags, spa and even diapers. During one of my lowlight days while checking the site, I came across deal.com.sg. I found out that they give out good deals for resort and cruise packages. I initially thought they are interested with donuts and facials only, apparently they are also interested in travel and relaxation. Cool!
I was fortunate enough to purchase a very good deal for an overnight stay package in Nongsa resorts, Batam Indonesia. It was a perfect treat for our planned weekend getaway with the husband. They reserved this lovely seaview room for us. (sorry for the low-res photo, just copied it from their site).
So how does the purchasing works? They announce the deal before its even open to the public so people will watch out for it. They post the announcement in their facebook account here. Once they open the deal, you are only allowed to purchase it within a specific period of time . So you better be ready! If it gets confirmed, they will send you the voucher with the instruction how to use/make reservations. That easy!
While you busy yourself checking out their latest deal, let me me print my voucher first coz we are going tomorrow :D Weehhh!
I was fortunate enough to purchase a very good deal for an overnight stay package in Nongsa resorts, Batam Indonesia. It was a perfect treat for our planned weekend getaway with the husband. They reserved this lovely seaview room for us. (sorry for the low-res photo, just copied it from their site).
So how does the purchasing works? They announce the deal before its even open to the public so people will watch out for it. They post the announcement in their facebook account here. Once they open the deal, you are only allowed to purchase it within a specific period of time . So you better be ready! If it gets confirmed, they will send you the voucher with the instruction how to use/make reservations. That easy!
While you busy yourself checking out their latest deal, let me me print my voucher first coz we are going tomorrow :D Weehhh!
April 13, 2010
Family's trip to three Asian cities
It's almost Friday! - the day my family's flying to Singapore for their one week vacation. I am excited for them, especially for the father, who will be traveling overseas first time after his work in Saudi. I can't wait!
Since the mother insisted on visiting Kuala Lumpur, I have no choice but to include it in our itinerary and make sure everyday is a day well-spent, both in time and money :D I found a very affordable guesthouse which offers a decent accommodation good enough for an overnight stay. The place is called Anjung KL guesthouse, which is situated in the city and near famous tourist spots. Good thing, they still have available rooms for us inspite of my quite late inquiry. Yahoo!
Honestly, I don't find KL that exciting compared to other Asian cities. Maybe because it's just a cartwheel away from Singapore. But I guess, anyone not staying near the place will be as excited as my mother. I don't want their KL trip to be an all-city tour because I'm sure the brother and father will complain, so for these two hypers, I am booking us an all-day ride in Genting Highland theme park. This is to avoid too much shopping but still enjoy our trip :D
Their next stop is Batam, Indonesia. Yeah, I know, nothing much to see there. But what to do when you have a ninong who works there and offers to pay the whole trip? As the saying goes, "it's an insult to reject an offer". So still, it's part of their hectic schedule. I can only imagine how my father will complain :)
Of course, how can I forget to tour them around Singapore? This is the most exciting part of all because I will be with them for their remaining two days. Their tour will only include Universal Studios, Sentosa and the city. I wish i could bring them to the Singapore zoo or Night safari. I hope we still have the time.
Nevertheless, I am excited as ever!
Since the mother insisted on visiting Kuala Lumpur, I have no choice but to include it in our itinerary and make sure everyday is a day well-spent, both in time and money :D I found a very affordable guesthouse which offers a decent accommodation good enough for an overnight stay. The place is called Anjung KL guesthouse, which is situated in the city and near famous tourist spots. Good thing, they still have available rooms for us inspite of my quite late inquiry. Yahoo!
Honestly, I don't find KL that exciting compared to other Asian cities. Maybe because it's just a cartwheel away from Singapore. But I guess, anyone not staying near the place will be as excited as my mother. I don't want their KL trip to be an all-city tour because I'm sure the brother and father will complain, so for these two hypers, I am booking us an all-day ride in Genting Highland theme park. This is to avoid too much shopping but still enjoy our trip :D
Their next stop is Batam, Indonesia. Yeah, I know, nothing much to see there. But what to do when you have a ninong who works there and offers to pay the whole trip? As the saying goes, "it's an insult to reject an offer". So still, it's part of their hectic schedule. I can only imagine how my father will complain :)
Of course, how can I forget to tour them around Singapore? This is the most exciting part of all because I will be with them for their remaining two days. Their tour will only include Universal Studios, Sentosa and the city. I wish i could bring them to the Singapore zoo or Night safari. I hope we still have the time.
Nevertheless, I am excited as ever!
March 01, 2010
Travel Lusting: Conquer Asia's Finest
Singapore has very limited public holidays compared to the Philippines. This year they have a total of ten public holidays which usually falls on a weekend (and which is a good thing btw). So far, the Chinese New year has the longest off days, for obvious reasons that the locals celebrate it.
Since last year, i have been counting the public holidays for this year because i claimed and declared that this will be our travel year *big grin*. Actually, i've been doing this declaration two years ago but sadly it didn't happen. I've been to nearby cities in previous years like Johor Bahru Malaysia, Batam Indonesia and Phuket Thailand. But really nothing much to see in these places, except for the amazing Phuket, which to date was still my ultimate beach escapade.
I could say our travel year started with a blast. We kicked off with a trip to Boracay Island last January 1 for our honeymoon. Then followed by two trips to Malaysia for our first summer getaway at Rawa Island and Chinese new year vacay in Melaka. On April, my family will be coming over to Singapore for a one week visit and as promised to my mother, we will be going to Kuala Lumpur for a weekend trip. So far, so good. God is awesome indeed!
But i'm not finish travel lusting just yet. It's still March and there are seven more long weekends before Christmas. In my list, these are the following places to visit this year:
1. Phuket or Krabi Thailand - i wanted to visit this place every year actually. and the husband has not set foot on any of these. we are planning to schedule our trip hopefully this May or not on September. it's not advisable to go there on the rainy season of June to August because the waves will scare you big time.
2. Bali Indonesia - this is a must on August hihi. i am deliriously checking budget airlines for cheap air fares.but i cannot book instantly yet. i hope the airline i am eyeing at will still have the promo fare before end of this week. *crossing fingers and toes*
3. Hanoi Vietnam & Halong Bay - for soo long, i wanted to visit Vietnam too and try on one of the cruises at Halong Bay. i hope our budget will permit us to visit this place this year.
4. Hong Kong - we initially planned to go there on my birthday this June but the husband's family is coming over so we have to postpone it. i am hoping we can schedule the trip on December, in time for our one year wedding anniversary. it would be nice to celebrate it during the winter season. :D
5. Philippine Beaches - we are going home to Cebu for a five-day vacation this July. as a self-acclaimed beach bum, i was listing in my head the beaches/islands i wanted to visit - Siargao, El Nido, Caramoan, Pagudpud, Bantayan, Pandanon, Batangas, Zambales, and Siquijor. but what can you do with five days minus one for my bff's church wedding and minus two days for family get together? i can't even visit at least one on the list. sadly. as a consolation though, the husband told me we can visit the Bais sandbar while in Alegria. good enough for me. i will just try some other time to visit those in my list, hopefully on January next year :)
If we will be blessed with more income and resources, I hope to visit Japan, Australia, Dublin, Bangkok, Langkawi, Cambodia, and China. :D If not, then they will occupy my list for next year :D. I fervently hope we could pull it through our travel year.
They say "dreams when written, do come true". Calling Mr. Universe! Hear me! =D
Since last year, i have been counting the public holidays for this year because i claimed and declared that this will be our travel year *big grin*. Actually, i've been doing this declaration two years ago but sadly it didn't happen. I've been to nearby cities in previous years like Johor Bahru Malaysia, Batam Indonesia and Phuket Thailand. But really nothing much to see in these places, except for the amazing Phuket, which to date was still my ultimate beach escapade.
I could say our travel year started with a blast. We kicked off with a trip to Boracay Island last January 1 for our honeymoon. Then followed by two trips to Malaysia for our first summer getaway at Rawa Island and Chinese new year vacay in Melaka. On April, my family will be coming over to Singapore for a one week visit and as promised to my mother, we will be going to Kuala Lumpur for a weekend trip. So far, so good. God is awesome indeed!
But i'm not finish travel lusting just yet. It's still March and there are seven more long weekends before Christmas. In my list, these are the following places to visit this year:
1. Phuket or Krabi Thailand - i wanted to visit this place every year actually. and the husband has not set foot on any of these. we are planning to schedule our trip hopefully this May or not on September. it's not advisable to go there on the rainy season of June to August because the waves will scare you big time.
2. Bali Indonesia - this is a must on August hihi. i am deliriously checking budget airlines for cheap air fares.but i cannot book instantly yet. i hope the airline i am eyeing at will still have the promo fare before end of this week. *crossing fingers and toes*
3. Hanoi Vietnam & Halong Bay - for soo long, i wanted to visit Vietnam too and try on one of the cruises at Halong Bay. i hope our budget will permit us to visit this place this year.
4. Hong Kong - we initially planned to go there on my birthday this June but the husband's family is coming over so we have to postpone it. i am hoping we can schedule the trip on December, in time for our one year wedding anniversary. it would be nice to celebrate it during the winter season. :D
5. Philippine Beaches - we are going home to Cebu for a five-day vacation this July. as a self-acclaimed beach bum, i was listing in my head the beaches/islands i wanted to visit - Siargao, El Nido, Caramoan, Pagudpud, Bantayan, Pandanon, Batangas, Zambales, and Siquijor. but what can you do with five days minus one for my bff's church wedding and minus two days for family get together? i can't even visit at least one on the list. sadly. as a consolation though, the husband told me we can visit the Bais sandbar while in Alegria. good enough for me. i will just try some other time to visit those in my list, hopefully on January next year :)
If we will be blessed with more income and resources, I hope to visit Japan, Australia, Dublin, Bangkok, Langkawi, Cambodia, and China. :D If not, then they will occupy my list for next year :D. I fervently hope we could pull it through our travel year.
They say "dreams when written, do come true". Calling Mr. Universe! Hear me! =D
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