Here’s something to perk up your food cravings. I compiled some 12 favourite casual eats that I enjoyed during my recent quickie Taipei visit; from a ‘hole in the wall’ noodle house to the largest chicken fillet I’ve ever seen. Taiwan is definitely ‘good food’ heaven!
So during my recent visit to Taipei, I had some time to randomly check a few affordable hostels near Taipei Main Station. The five featured on the vlog attached are priced at 600 to 1000 Pesos per bed per night(off peak season). Affordable, yet still with very good ratings and reviews online; and not to mention super instagrammable interiors. I’ve included clips of their lounges, the shared bedrooms and most importantly, their respective bathrooms.
All five are clean, relatively new, and are worthy of a recommendation. Hope this helps on your next visit to Taipei.
Hostels featured can be reached through popular hotel booking sites online.
1. Taipei Oxygen Hostel – No.100, Sec. 1, Chongqing S. Rd., Zhongzheng Dist. Taipei City
2. Taipei Taipei Hostel – #63, Sec. 1, Chongqing S. Rd Zhongzheng Dist., Taipei City
3. Space Inn Hostel – Basement 1 Floor, #51 , Hengyang Road, Zhongzheng District, Taipei City
UPDATE: In case you missed it, Filipinos can now travel to Taiwan visa-free up until July 31, 2019! Taiwan’s visa-free travel program has been extended another year.
The Taipei Economic and Cultural Office has already made official that we,the Philippine nationals, who plan to visit Taiwan for the purpose of tourism, visiting relatives, attending functions or events, can enjoy VISA FREE entry to Taiwan, for a duration of stay up to 14 days.
According to Taipei Economic and Cultural Office(TECO), a Filipino visa-free visitor must meet the following requirement to Taiwan Immigration upon arrival:
Effortless na, diba? However, this visa-free access will have a nine-month trial period until July 31, 2018. Kaya behave tayo dun mga bes, ha? wag mag J-walk, wag mag drugs, and landi responsibly!
For travellers intending to stay for more than 14 days, or for studying, working, employment, and other activities, you are still required to obtain appropriate visas before entering Taiwan.
For first time Pinoy travellers however, I personally recommend you to bring other supporting documents that may be asked by the Philippine Immigration before you can leave the country. Yes bes, it happens! Pwede ka pa rin hindi makalipad because the Ph immigration might find your travel plans to Taiwan questionable. As such, don’t forget to bring your company ID and certificate of leave pa din with complete details on approved date of absences; and if possible, state the declared salary. The purpose of this is to inform the Ph immigration officer that you have a stable work/living to return to here in our country, and that becoming a possible TNT in Taiwan is not your option. Panigurado lang. If the officer does not ask for these documents, then good! At least you were prepared. =)
Anyways, here’s a teaser vlog i prepared from my trip to Taipei last week. More details and tips coming soon.
Lamon! Lamon! Lamon! It’s that part of the laag that I look forward the most. Sino ayaw mabusog?
So last month, our travel group (char!) got invited once again by Azalea Hotels and Residences. This time, we visited the ever charming Baguio City. We did a lot of sight seeing. We visited BenCab Museum. We saw horses with pink hair. Quite a short trip, yet super fun. Baguio is lovely, as always. And the best part? Food trip! =D Here are some of the foodie highlights that we enjoyed during our stay.
FILIPINO COMFORT FOOD. Tradisyon Restaurant is Azalea Hotels and Residences’ in-house restaurant. The restaurant serves well-loved and familiar local and international food. The hotel chef dished up all his best entries during our stay. Here are some of the highlights.
Tradisyon Restaurant is located at the Azalea Hotels and Residences Baguio, Leonard Wood Loop, Brgy. M. Roxas. Price range 150 to 400 Pesos. servings to share.
TRADITIONAL AND AUTHENTIC. A visit to Baguio is an opportunity to experience authentic Cordilleran food. The Farmer’s Daughter is one of the noted restaurants in Baguio that serve pure Cordilleran dishes. Most of the dishes here are of Ibaloi cuisine.
Experiencing native dishes is a way of appreciating and giving respect to the Ibaloi tradition.
Dishes are good for sharing and ranges from Php100 to Php200. The Farmer’s Daughter is located in Awan, Baguio City, just beside the Tam-Awan Village.
A TASTE OF THE EXOTIC. Bar-B-que baby chicken. I didn’t eat this. Lol. But my friends enjoyed their piece. This street food is everywhere in Baguio. As such, sali ko nalang din sa list. Baka bet nyo to look forward. hehe 
STRAWBERRY HEAVEN. Baguio and it’s region is blessed with year-long cool weather; thus, the abundance of different kinds of berries. Probably the most popular is their luscious and bright red strawberries that they generously put on almost all kind of pastries and desserts I can imagine. Here are some.
Alright, enough about food. Move on tayo. Here is me strutting my best pose in front of Azalea Hotels and Residences, where we stayed for two nights. Azalea Residences is Baguio’s first and only 4-star serviced apartment hotel. (http://www.azaleabaguio.com/)
All shots included in this post were taken using OPPO Mobile Phone, The Selfie Expert. No filter. All Natural light. ‘Til then. =)
Yolk’s Cafe along Circumferential Road has been around for more than a year already. Many recent dining places have been sprouting everywhere in Davao, yet Yolk’s is still among my top recommendations when asked of staple comfort food. Good Pizza, pasta, staple filipino dishes in shareable serving, wide choices of frappes. Awesome! Not to mention the super instagrammable interiors. Kudos to the designer, if I may mention.
Price range: Set meals at 150 to 250 Pesos. Ala carte dining, Say 200 to 250 Pesos/pax on shared orders. Majority of the dishes on the menu are good to share.
Location: Marfori. Near Seekhana, Caitlyns, Taco Loco and Mercury Marfori.
My Personal Faves
They also serve crispy pata, grilled pork belly, buttered shrimps and several salad sets to share
The Frappes
Yolk’s also serves several sets for breakfast. They open early.
Get in touch with them through facebook. Yolk’s Flower Cafe and Cupcakery
Hi Guys! It’s almost 2 am on a Saturday night, and I am still freaking alive, alert and awake because of that Old Town Hazelnut Coffee I had kaninang 6 pm, which I should have just passed. So since lurat pa mata ko, naisip ko lang to finally return to my long overdue blogs on list of favourite things sa buhay, like anything and everything I enjoy under the sun. And since nagpapa yummy ako ngayon and iwas sweets, let us start this series with my list of 10 personal favourite cakes and pies from different cafes around Davao City. This has no particular order bes ha, kasi the list is composed of variety of flavours and cake compositions. Therefore, I am not ranking one entry to the other. Karamihan nito, naging fave ko na kasi may kwentong unforgettable. Phak! Di, joke lang, gusto ko lang tologoh lumamons. Anyways, here’s the list. Hope you enjoy this.
1. Banana Mckintosh – Basti’s Brew, Victoria Plaza. Yes guys, old school muna keyyy! Tayong mga taga Davao, alam naman nating institution na ang Basti’s brew nun college tayo (Haha, wala pa tayong pera nun mga bes, kaya happy bonus tologoh makapag Basti’s lang). Masaya talaga ako sa B.M. nila. Crumbly crust, caramelized banana filling, cream top, chocolate drizzle. Simple, spot on. Walang kyeme. Yung tipong parang Tita mo lang ang nag prepare? Ganun ka comforting ang Banana Mckintosh for me. Sadly di na to masyado naseserve ng Basti’s nun recent visits ko. Kung kilala nyo ang may ari, paki tanong naman.
2. Mango Charlotte. Bistro Rosario. Torres St. Yes guys, another old school Davao pastry. Sobrang deserving ng slot sa list ko, and I guess most Davao people naman my age would agree. Madaming childhood memories dala-dala si Mango Charlotte with its spongy chiffon, light cream and bold mango toppings. Saktong tamis lang. Simple. Spot on. Though there are some who say na medyo commercial na daw ang MC ngayon, pero kebs. Natutunan ko na siyang mahalin through the years, tatalikod pa ba ako?
3. Carrot Cream Cake – Basti’s Brew. Di naman ako masyadong fan ng Old school Davao noh? Chot. But personally, gusto ko talaga ang carrot cake basta freshly baked. Probably because it is not super common, and umay na din palaging mag chocolate. Basti’s version is slightly moist, which I like. Sakto lang din ang Tamis ng cream.
4. Fruity Cheesecake – Cafe de Flore, Torres St. Pasok na tayo sa mga recently opened cafes. Yes po, this one is from the cafe fronting Angel in Torres =D. Pretty to look at, and quality din. Gusto ko ung honest to goodness cheesecake center nila; non gelatinous, thus medyo brittle sya. Ganito ung nasubukan kong cheesecake sa Brussels. Chot. Pero di nga, try nyo. The Cafe is owned and operated by a French National. Though I only had this cake twice, and wasn’t able to visit na the recent months. I hope they were able to keep up. Di rin kasi mura this. nasa 180 Pesos to per slice. but it’s a large piece and I liked it.
5. Chocopology – Alor’s/Yummy Chicken, Torres Street. By now, you may have noticed, di ako masyadong mahilig sa chocolate cakes. However, This entry is an exemption. Probably kasi mestisa lang sya. lol. Layers of semi moist chocolate chiffon base, light cream, mocha and chocolate mousse. Probably because malawak yung layer ng cream that is why I didn’t find it too sweet. Sakto lang. Highly recommended this .
6. Matcha Cheesecake – Katsu Country, Jacinto Extension. Mahilig ako sa Matcha. Probably because mahilig sa matcha si crush so I have to cope. Chot! But seriously, Matcha flavour is exotic. Acquired taste bale, it’s not for everyone. Katsu Country is only months old, pero I must commend the quality of this featured cheesecake. Texture. consistency. Good! Again, non gelatinous. honest to goodness cheesecake lang on a plate. Super turned off ako sa cheesecake na parang jelly.
7. Nutty Matcha Cheesecake-Cuppycakes Boulangerie,Marfori Subd. A proof na mahilig ako sa Matcha. I can’t choose between this and the previous so I’m including both. But unlike the honest, unembellished composition of item 6, this matcha cheesecake is a bit fancy, with walnuts and caramel drizzle . And if I am not mistaken, the crust is semi carrot-ish.
8. Durian Cheesecake Mini – Lachi’s Marfori. No need to argue guys, Lachi’s is a dessert institution. Everything there is good. Sansrival, pecan pie, french cake. Lahat. But for this list, I am including the Durian Mini since ito naman madalas kong ma order.
9. Cheesecake Roulette – Park Inn Hotel, Lanang. All 6 varieties of good cheesecake on a platter. Perfect for presents on Christmas, kaya I included this para mag bigay ng gift idea. On this set, pinaka gusto ko yung cheesecake with caramel candy topping.
10. Banana Walnut Torte, Saging Repablik, Tiongko Street. This may come as a surprise to some, pero swear, on my list, this is on top! Saktong layers of sansrival-like crust, caramelized banana, dark chocolate layer and loads of crushed walnut. Pile up two sets of that goodness and cover with chilled cream. Comfort entry ko to. Simple, honest ingredients. may play of texture and flavours which I find exciting.
Ilang dates na ba naisama ko sa Saging repablik for this? Raise your hands. lol. Also factor din na malapit lang to sa bahay.
When I have visitors asking for dessert recommendations, I usually mention this Banana Walnut Torte. It’s a local recipe using local resources; the Davao banana to be specific. Local flair is key! But for those who love durian flavour, definitely there’s Lachi’s cheesecake.
So there goes my list. And let me just note that this is not a paid post or whatever. FYI. Consider me as a satisfied – Paying Customer that enjoyed eating his cake in peace and without counting the calories habang stable the blood sugar count.
As a good friend quoteed: ” Bahalag Tambok, basta lipay”! ’til the next blog.
Eat responsibly.=)
Here’s a quickie vlog on how I spent my recent 2 days off in Baguio City. Flew in via Clark Int’l Airport. Baguio City is just two and a half smooth hours away by private van from Clark.
Traveling to North and Central Luzon is now easier for Davaoenos with Airasia Philippines’ direct Davao to Clark flights.
Stayed at Azalea Hotel and Residence Baguio. Splendid rooms and impeccable services as always. http://www.azaleabaguio.com
Ohhw,Joy! It’s my first time to have my hair highlighted.
#YOLO!
I am currently wearing ‘Sun-kissed Surfer Boy Highlights’, professionally handled by The Buddy Congson of Balayage by Buddy and Hairs and Nails Salon Davao,Digos and General Santos City.
Get in touch with buddy through facebook.
https://www.facebook.com/buddycongson/
https://www.facebook.com/HairsandNailsSalon/
Here’s a vlog on my quickie overnight side trip to Tibiao,Antique. The small town famous for the kawa hot bath is 2 to 2.5 hours away by bus from Kalibo City. Bus leaves every hour between 7AM to 2PM. Schedules are posted on Ceres Bus Line Website.
From Kalibo City (Ceres Terminal) take the bus to” San Jose,Antique”. Inform the conductor ahead of time that you are bound for Tibiao. All vans and buses of this route pass though Tibiao Town. You have a choice to alight at Tibiao Town Center, or at the crossing of Brgy Importante, which is a stop just before Tibiao town proper. Bus ride costs 150 Pesos per way.
The Kawa Hot Bath places are located up the hills and rice paddles of Brgy Importante. To get there, take a motorcycle habal habal for 80 to 100 Pesos per way. 20 to 30 minutes travel time. Tibiao is a pretty small town that is very easy to navigate. Locals are also very much willing to assist you on securing your rides. No sweat.
Going up the hills, expect to pay 50 Pesos Tourism fee at a booth. They provide Official Receipt for that. No worries.
At the moment, there are 4 places up the mountains that provide accommodation, full board meals and hot baths. There’s on resort that can be booked through Agoda, but through referrals, I opted to stay at La Escapo Lodge, Owned by the Barangay Captain of the place. Stay details are on my vlog attached.
Overnight Kubo Room (Fan Type) : 250/ pax
Hot Bath : 200/pax
Food (Paluto Style): 70 to 100 per set meal. Bringing of Baon is also allowed.
Other activities : Caving, Kayaking, rafting, rice paddle trekking with kids as guides (like 7 years old. lels)
At the moment, expect to have very unstable to no Network Signal. No Data. No Wifi. Good luck sa inyo mga bes. However, a visit to Tibiao is definitely a great opportunity to have some long overdue quiet time; A Place for retreat. A chance to reconnect with you inner thoughts. An inspirational book plus hot coffee will be a good idea.
The place is super green, super fresh smelling and soothing cool with drizzling rain from time to time. The accommodation huts are just up the stream so sobrang sarap matulog talaga hearing the water flow down and crash against the river rocks.
Definitely going back there soon.
—0—-
Where I stayed : La Escapo Lodge and Hot Bath, owned by the family of Miss Yolly Amar. Get in touch with them though facebook.
Here’s a quick recap vlog on how I spent one fine weekend backpacking Capiz and Isla de Gigantes. I flew in via Airasia’s direct Davao-Kalibo flight. Kalibo to Roxas City,Capiz is merely 1.5 hours away by van.
Capiz and Isla de Gigantes are two awesome alternative destinations accessible from Kalibo (in case Boracay is already a cliche).
Getting around tips:
Kalibo City to Roxas City, Capiz
From Kalibo Airport, walk towards the highway, which is merely 60 meters away. Tricycle rides from the highway to anywhere in downtown Kalibo is only 10 Pesos. Super cheap as compared to the chartered tricycles directly outside the arrival area (minimum 100 Pesos). Upon exiting the airport, don’t forget to try the Aklan Style Suman with Latik. To die for super yummy. Tradition ko tlga kumain nito upon arrival and before I leave.
Van terminal from Kalibo to Roxas City (Capiz) is located at the front of Citymall. 5 am to 7pm. 120 Pesos. 1.5 hours travel time. Vans and buses alight at Pueblo de Panay Central Terminal in Roxas City.
Where to Stay in Roxas City : Beehive Inn. 400 Pesos Fan room with private bathroom and wifi. Inn is located fronting CAP building; walking distance from public market. Roxas is very easy to navigate. Tricycles are the primary transpo. 10 to 15 Pesos fare.
Roxas City, Capiz to Isla de Gigantes
From Pueblo de Panay Terminal, hop on a Van with “ESTANCIA” Route, but you’re not going to Estancia. Let the driver know you are on your way to Isla de Gigantes so he can drop you off at BALASAN. 65 Pesos per way. One Hour travel. Balasan town is relatively populated. Nothing to be scared of.
From Balasan, hire a motorcycle habal-habal to Bancal Port (or just let the driver know you’re on your way to Isla de Gigantes.) 100 Pesos max to get there.
Bus ride is also doable but is a bit complicated.
Chartering a van from Roxas City is around 3000 to 5000 Pesos. The easiest way ever!
If given some time in Balasan, don’t forget to try their local bibinka. Super small and cute, like around 3 inches diameter lang. pero super yummy. like may buko strips inside and crystalized sugar on top. 
I pre-booked my day tour to Gigantes group of islands with Paul Bolivar of Gigantes island Tours and Services. Get in touch with them through Facebook. Package tour is at 999 Pesos with hefty Lunch (off peak price). Overnight packages are also available.
Here are some of the dishes served during our lunch. PANALO!!! 
Hostel stay has now become a popular option when visiting Boracay. Hostels (or minsan referred din as Dormitory type accommodation)are perfect for solo backpackers, as well as travelling groups preferring shared rooms and amenities,to save on cost.
During my recent visit, naisip ko lang to come up ng list of hostels around the island with very good ratings, based on Agoda and Booking.com. Pinuntahan ko sila personally to check and take some videos of their rooms and amenities. Aside from good ratings, featured hostels here have prices not exceeding P 500.00 per night (Off peak rates). Check my short video blog below. =)
Here’s the shortlist of hostels featured,
1. Hostel Avenue . 3rd and 4th floor Pats Creek Bar, Station 2. This hostel offers the best location, as it is the only option at the moment with direct beachfront access.
2. W Hostel. Bolabog Road. Walking distance from D’mall. Best In View. Panalo ang roof deck amenities for chill nights. The hostel is managed by Koreans.
3. Mad Monkey Hostel. Popular chain of hostel na sila sa Cambodia, kaya panalo sa mga foreign backpackers. Massive swimming pool, sobrang party mode ng crowd. If bet mo magka jowa ng Kano, ok, dito ka. =)
4. Chill-out Hostel. The name clearly represents its atmosphere. Relax lang. Nice din ang pool. Very photogenic. If bet mo mag emote, dito ka. =)
5. Chillax Flashpacker Hostel. Panalo sa cleanliness. Bago ang facilities. Medyo secluded location at Diniwid beach (next to station 1). The Hostel is managed by a very accommodating New Zealander guy.
All these hostels can be booked through booking.com. For inquiries, pwede rin sila sa facebook. Chikahin nyo lang. =)
Tucked in a quiet corner along Jacinto Extension stands Katsu Country, a recently opened Japanese-inspired café in Davao serving tasty tonkatsu sets, ramen and creative pasta dishes. Super easy to find the cafe, as the sleek and very inviting millennial pink interiors can easily be spotted from the outside. 
Here are some of the ‘must try’; my personal faves.
Kani Salad as starter. Generous Kani strips, chilled lettuce, tangy Japanese mayo sauce. 110 Pesos a bowl to share. 
Katsudon rice topping . Deep-fried pork cutlet with egg, prepared with a sweet and mildly salty broth, placed over hot rice. 200 Pesos. Generous serving size. 
Katsu Meatball Spaghetti. Traditional Spaghetti topped with deep fried beef balls. 175 Pesos per serve.
Chicken Teriyaki Pasta. Mildly sweet. Very flavourful. A Katsu Country Original. 150 Pesos per serve.
Katsu Country Signature Matcha Cheesecake. Honestly good, non-gelatinous, slightly brittle texture, which I like. It’s probably the best Matcha cheesecake in Davao, TBH. 200 Pesos for this set. 
Apart from these featured entries, the cafe also serves traditional Porkloin, beef,chicken and fish katsu sets, tofu katsu set for the vegetarians, burgers, and savory Shoyu Ramen bowls.
Katsu Country Cafe is located at the Ground Floor of Junction Bldg, Emilio Jacinto Extension, Davao City. Get in touch with them through Facebook, or contact 0917 314 6361 for reservations.
Hello,mga bes. Yes, I feel super rejuvenated,alive and fresh from my recent trip to Boracay. Quickie trip lang, 3 days. Di ako excited nun. Di nga ako masyadong nakapaghanda. Before the trip, I just had my hair highlighted with Sun-kissed Brown Balayage, courtesy of the Master Colourist himself, Buddy Congson of Hairs and Nails Salon. May I promote pa noh? Ganun tlga. #LoveLove
Moving forward, I thought of sharing with you guys how I prepared and packed my things for this trip. We all have our own styles of loading our bags based on the purpose of the travel. Me personally, kahit anong occasion pa yan, I like my things light,organised and minimal, bringing only the necessary. I believe naman na pag may kulang, we can always buy them upon arrival (unless mamundok ka, then Kbye). As much as possible, I don’t baggage check in na. I don’t mind hand carrying my things naman, so that i can get off the plane swiftly and leave the airport agad. I don’t have to wait na for my bag sa carousel and all. Para sa mga nagtatanong, I use a Cabin Zero 44L Backpack. It’s a European brand na super lightweight material with huge storage capacity, parang maleta na ang peg. Hindi ito paid advertisement ha? Wag kayong echosera. I just like how this bag serves its purpose. Although wala masyadong compartments. It would be better if we also use smaller pouches to segregate and organise things. 
Sadly for this trip, airline crew wanted me to check in my baggage because of the go pro stick. Weird nga eh. I had many trips na before and selfie sticks are allowed naman for hand carry. But Kebs na; life’s to short to question airline protocol. Anyways, let us proceed with the dissection. Here is what’s inside my backpack:
( from lower right, clockwise):
—–oo——
The Breakdown:
1-2. Pouch for Clothes . Pouch 1 -clothes for super casual, beachwear and the likes, and Pouch 2 -clothes for porma and for dine outs. On other trips, I have separate pouch for semi formal/formal. Sakto lang ganitong style for quickie, business o leisure trip with friends. For long term backpacking, I have different method of packing. hihi. The Pouches, I bought lang sa 88 store. very helpful to.
3. Pouch for slippers and shoes. In Boracay, kasi kailangan porma, I brought one more sandal, not shown sa photo. lol . 
4. Pouch for Swimwear. Recommend ko talaga mag rash guard sa beach, for skin protection na din. Sa brands, nothing in particular;department store- bought lang. Meron pa to goggles and ear plugs, di ko na nasali sa pic.
Yung rashgard ko, may opening for the thumb to keep the sleeves in place.
5. Pouch for Toiletry/Skin Care/Gadgets . 
Toiletries pouch ko sa upper left. Nothing fancy. Toothpaste, conditioner, shampoo in a refillable bottle (less than 100ml). I don’t bring soap nah, body wash lang.Hassle eh. Though when I am at home, I maintain using organic soap from Myskin Origins.
Pouch for Medicine, eyedrops, and my daily fibre supplement.
Gadgets – Just Charger and spare batteries for Go pro.
The white triangle, spare plastic bag, lol, as in silopin from Gmall, pwede na. Always ako meron nito, even in my work bag.
Pouch for Skin Care, lol, dami. Ito un.
Face Mask – The cucumber mask in particular has a soothing and cooling effect to the skin; a perfect night care after a full day fiasco under the sun. I only use mask from The Face Shop; kinasanayan na.
Dermax UV Gel Sunblock for the face. I was advised by my derma to use only gel type water based sun protection, kasi I am prone to break outs. Mejo mahal, kaya for the face lang. I use a different one for the body.
Dermax Hyal C Serum. Serves as my facial moisturizer before bedtime.
Day-long Sunblock Gel from Cetaphil for the neck and body.
Alcohol in a spray type bottle. Very convenient. Refillable pa.
Eye Roll on. lol. Di ko alam bat nadala ko to, I don’t use this often.
Acne Gel Cleanser from VMV.
Lip balm with SPF 15 from Nivea.
My Favourite perfume in a small handy bottle. Walang reason not to smell fresh during travel.
This is my sun protection set. I also bring this with me during fieldworks.
So, yes basically that’s it. Haha, maarte ba? Sa skin care lng naman. Kailangan yun. Though I am fully aware that I do not have perfect smooth skin at the moment, it could have been worse if I never took care of it. Sabi nga ni Kris Aquino, oiliness is less to joblessness.
It was a fun 3 days trip to Boracay. Kulang tlga. But yes, we can always go back. Good thing Airasia Ph now offers direct flights from Davao to Caticlan/Kalibo. This means cheaper fare na for us coming from Southern Mindanao, because we do not have to pass by Manila or Cebu anymore.
Quickie weekend trip to Boracay? pwedeng pwede nah! 
During our trip, we were hosted by AZALEA Hotels and Residences Boracay, in Station 2. Azalea Boracay is the only 4 star service apartment-hotel in the island. Good location, furnished kitchen on every suites,commendable services. The hotel even has a heated pool at the roof deck. Panalo! Will upload more blogs re our accommodation soon, for now, you may get in touch with at http://www.azaleaboracay.com/.
Til then. Ciao =)
A panoramic view of Mt. Apo,
The calming sound of Kabacan River below,
A fancy infinity pool just outside your suite.
Imagine waking up to that picture,and sipping your hot cup of native coffee by the pool. Very nice, isn’t it?
😊
Sitio Maupot is a recently opened mountain resort, 30 minutes away from Kidapawan City. The resort already rests on the foothills of Mount Apo, that’s easily accessible (with concreted road) from the town of Magpet. The Balinese-inspired resort has commendable amenities, and the suites are tastefully designed. The outdoor spa and massage lounge faces the best view of the mountains as well. Private suite packages start at 3,500 for 2 pax. 
It is also worth commending that the resort gave an effort to preserve existing nature, as much as they can. Trees and natural contours of the land were largely maintained. There is even a fruit bearing guava tree in the middle of the pool. Very nice,noh? 😊 The resort is also partially solar powered.
To maintain semi-exclusivity, the resort is not listed in agoda and the likes. For inquiries, just click on the link above. Their FB page is quite responsive.
You may also Contact them at 0946-1745-495 or email sitiomaupot@yahoo.com.
— April 22,2015, Wednesday, 10:00 pm, General Santos City —
Earlier today, I got my passport back from the Netherlands Embassy with a valid Schengen Visa Sticker. Approved! Grabe! Ilang araw ko din to inanticipate! I was kind of doubtful with my application at first because me and two other companions had difficulty in the personal interview, which I shall be detailing later on.
The waiting time of uncertainty felt somewhat to similar when I was waiting for my board exam result back in 2008. I was not confident at all. Parang natatae ako everytime I think about it. But then it turned out good. This is my first time to get such Visa approved. The application was “D.I.Y., with personal interviews and taxing requirements. Other visas from previous trips were VOAs or coursed through an agency. Sorry if you find this OA, but really, travelling is a big deal for me; And granted the opportunity to visit Europe is a dream come true. So, yeah!
So by the time this will be published, I am probably in Warsaw, Poland already. So, wish me safe and luck guys! Laban! =)
— xoxo —
Moving forward to a more serious and productive note, here is how I got my visa application approved. For those interested, I hope this would help in some ways.
Applying Schengen Visa can be done three months prior to your trip. As a golden rule, it is always good to patch travel requirements early.
Why I applied through the Netherlands Embassy?
When travelling to multiple Schengen States, application for visa should be submitted to the embassy where a person intends to stay the longest. The embassy is keen on this, as they will be examining the itinerary you will be submitting.
The Netherlands Embassy also carries in the Philippines all visa applications for Poland, which in my case, the country where I intend to stay the longest.
In addition, I have been told that it is fairly easier to apply through them as they have been generously granting Visas for tourism the past years, provided with complete requirements. But then this was not in our case since we had difficulty in the personal interview, which I shall be detailing later. However, the Embassy still granted us a visa, so, Hoorayy for that!!!! =)
Booking a Personal Interview
2016 UPDATE: To schedule an interview, you pay at Unionbank Php 730.00 nalang, instead of the full amount. Keep the deposit slip, the reference numbers there are important. And if you can’t find the ref number, ask the teller to highlight it on the slip, as you have to encode that on the scheduling website. Usually after One banking day, you can make a schedule na. Remember also that you should complete the interview scheduling asap, as the receipt expires in 30 days.
Meanwhile, the VISA fee, amounting to Php 3,170.00, should be paid na on the day of the scheduled interview at the Embassy (before the interview, to be exact).
Others, such as the Italian embassy, require booking appointment via call center which charges Php 32.00/ minute call.
Apologies for being too wordy on this but I might as well make this post as detailed as possible, based our actual experience.
Below are the items I gathered for this Visa application, solely for purpose of Leisure and Tourism. For other types of visa, please check on the Netherlands website. The same requirements are also asked when applying though other Schengen State Embassies. However, It is advised to make further research for specific countries. Wise and detailed preparation would most likely result to better chances of approval =)
Requirements to submit during interview:
Date – City/Country – Activity/to do – Hotel Address – Hotel Booking Number
Interviewers are very keen on this, as it happened to me. I as was randomly asked what my expected activities are on certain dates. As such, it is better to study this, especially if will be going multiple countries.
(100 USD per Day x # of days stay + Ticket cost) x 2.
Unless you have a host or a sponsor for your trip, then provide an Affidavit of Financial Support as proof. I have a friend who got this support from her mom, and her application was ok.
If employed:
If self-employed:
Processing time is 15 days from the date of interview. However, we got our passports just 7 days after, which came as a surprise. =)
How the interview went …
To my surprise, the interviewers on the day we were scheduled, were Filipina Staffs on all three counters. And it was not as quick as I thought it would be. My interview lasted for almost 20 minutes, to think that only 10 minutes was supposed to be allotted as per schedule.
As I understood, the interviewer was trying to squeeze out how much I know my documents and my Itinerary. She randomly asked me what activities I am scheduled to do on certain dates, so as to check how well I know my planned Itinerary, since my trip was a “Do it Yourself”, no group tours whatsoever.
These submitted itineraries however, are for visa purposes and may still be changed, provided you just stay in Schengen until the allowable maximum days granted on you; A week, a month, 90 days max, it depends on how well you defend your Itinerary.
I was asked for a company ID. I forgot to bring any. (On cue, heart attack!)
I also lacked a page in my hotel booking, forgot to print. ( another heart attack!)
She also asked me how I earn and save, which she found unimpressive, I guess, given the length of stay I requested, (Hahaha) which got me thinking about the savings formula of “expected spending x 2”. Or provide more if you can, so as to establish your worth and that you have a reason not to over stay there for whatever purpose. After all, this application is for tourism, as such, certain funds are expected.
I was also asked for additional documents from my friend in Poland, who is hosting me. There were lacking documents, which was the cause of another tiny heart attack for me. However, I was allowed to just email them to the embassy, after the interview.
On other days, Dutch citizens do the interview, which some say, are easier to talk to; And would not drag the interview longer than 5 minutes, when provided with complete documents. It is either you are good, or not.
In all honesty, I was not confident the moment I finished the interview. I went home sad. If not for the lacking documents and all, my interview could have been easier.
But despite those, I was granted the Visa still! Its like I won a battle I almost accepted I’d lose. Thank God things turned out well!
So here na ako . Wish me luck =) Hello Europe and Hello World ! =)
The Philippine Eagle Center Mission
The Philippine Eagle Foundation is a private, non-stock, non-profit organization dedicated to saving the endangered Philippine Eagle (Pithecophaga jefferyi) and its rainforest habitat. Organized in 1987, it had before that time been operating as a project for research, rehabilitation, and captive breeding.
The Philippine Eagle Foundation commits to promote the survival of the Philippine Eagle, the biodiversity, and the sustainable use of our forest resources for future generations.
The Philippine Eagle Foundation
VAL Learning Village, Ruby St., Marfori Heights,
Davao City 8000 Philippines
The Philippine Eagle Center
Malagos, Baguio District
Davao City 8000 Philippines
As part of the Davao Food Appreciation Tour (DFAT 2015), Marco Polo Hotel Davao has invited Food and Travel Bloggers to sample their a la carte items over a sumptuous lunch by the pool.
Here are the best entries served by Marco Polo Davao for DFAT 2015 participants:
As a certified BBQ lover, Marco Polo’s Baby Back Ribs won my taste buds above everything else. The ribs has the satisfying blend of sweet, spicy, smoky flavour, grilled to just the right tenderness.
Marco Polo Davao’s Sirloin Steak was also a winner. Consistently tender and flavourful. Perfect with Quinoa.
Here are some other entries served for lunch:
Perfectly prepared desserts have always been a staple on every Marco Polo dining experience. For DFAT 2015, the hotel has prepared Pandan and Jackfruit Parfait, and Mangosteen Mousse as a closing treat.
… But it won’t hurt if you enjoy your parfait first. Marco Polo’s sweet treats are always blissful =)
Website: http://www.marcopolohotels.com/…/marco_polo_davao/index.html
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/marcopolodavaohotel
Twitter: @MarcoPoloDavao
Instagram: @MarcoPoloDavao
As a new year tradition(and hopefully I can keep it up), I am sharing these simple travelogue postcards of beautiful cities I’ve visited this year. All shots were taken by me with my Sony. Feel free to share. =)
A morning stroll around Amsterdam is always a delight. 
A side trip to Zaanse Schans should never be missed. It is where you will find the centuries old windmills and cheese factories. Getting there will only take an hour from the central station.
Amsterdam is also as lovely in the afternoon.
Norway’s capital city is certainly a contemporary design heaven for architects and other design enthusiasts. Without a doubt, Oslo boasts some of the best and most current ideas in art,architecture and interior design in the European region.
Here are the highlights from my two days visit to the Norwegian capital.
The Oslo Opera House is one of the capital city’s most celebrated architectural masterpiece. The building is purposely designed with a multi-level sloped decks that allows people to walk from the ground level and up to the top without having to go inside the building. The opera house as well boasts an impressive interior woodwork. No fees are asked to enter the building lobby.
The opera house has one of the most impressive comfort room I have ever visited.
The opera house is at its most impressive during sunset to early evening.
The view of Oslo waterfront as seen from the roof deck.
The view of the city as seen from roof deck.
Tjuvholmen (Thief Island) and the Aker Brygge are two noted modern day waterfront developments in Oslo. The place erects Norway’s famous contemporary buildings, as well as museums and community facilities. Day tours are welcome, and are free of charge.
The Astrup Fearnley Museum, which is also located in Tjuvholmen, holds a wide collection of contemporary art and installations from artists of different nationalities. The Building designed by the famous architect Renzo Piano. Entrance to the exhibits costs around 12 Euros (600 Pesos)
Here are some highlights of the museum exhibit.
The museum toilet for the disabled looks like something from a sci-fi movie set.
Vigeland Sculpture Park is another highlight of Oslo’s contemporary art scene. Entrance to the park is free of charge. 30 minutes tram ride from the city centre via Tram # 12. 
More on Oslo to follow. =)
Travel + Lifestyle + Architecture Blog 