Solo Flight in Macau

Last March 2014, I was given the wonderful opportunity to travel to Macau for free! I said free because it was my employer who shouldered all my expenses for a 5-day training. Even though my visit was work-related, I still took the chance to explore the city after office hours. It was also my first time to travel abroad alone and  I had the time of my life touring around. While in Macau, I also grabbed the chance to catch up with my good old friend and former roommate, Stella, who now lives there. Big thanks to her for my solo and very touristy pictures! :)

I managed to visit the must-see places at no-cost (again?) because of the free bus rides casinos offer. The major casinos in Macau are City of Dreams, The Venetian, Galaxy to name a few. The buses drop off their passengers to the key destinations around the city. You don't have to be a guest at their hotel to avail of the free ride. Practically anyone can ride their bus. Isn't that cool?

I am sharing with you my favorite photos during my trip.

The Venetian

Relaxing Day at Luljetta's Hanging Gardens and Spa

Around two weeks before Mother's Day of this year, my mom called me up and asked me to search for a place around or near Manila where we could relax and unwind as a family. I chanced upon Out of Town's blog on the Top 15 Summer Destinations Near Metro Manila and that was how I heard about Luljetta's Hanging Gardens and Spa. The reviews about it were great and since it was located only in Antipolo, I have suggested that we would celebrate Mother's Day there.

Where I Stayed in Siem Reap | Steung Siem Reap Hotel

Of all the hotels I have stayed during my trips to Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur and Singapore, Steung Siem Reap Hotel in Cambodia tops my list of the most budget-friendly accommodations offering 5-star hotel service. 

Let me share you the reasons why I was impressed by it.

Photo Credit: Bed and Breakfast World

KyoChon Philippines | The New Double-Fried Chicken Star?

KyoChon opened its first branch in the Philippines last April 29, 2014 at SM Megamall. Since I am a huge fan of BonChon, I was curious if KyoChon serves better double-fried chicken given that they are the pioneer of this dish in South Korea. I tagged my friend +Mc  along to find out which of the two restaurants is better according to my taste buds. So what's my verdict? Read on to find out.

King Chef | My Family's Favorite Dimsum Restaurant

Update (Oct. 11, 2015): Just yesterday, we dined again at King Chef to celebrate the birthday of one of my Titas. Their dimsum prices have been updated and the cheapest item in the menu costs Php55. Still very affordable right? The branch serving an all-dimsum menu is located at 2/F 238 Center Banawe St. The old branch is still open but has been re-branded as fine dining restaurant.

Ever since my Tita discovered King Chef in 2012, it has been one of my family's favorite restaurants. Countless lunches, dinners, birthdays and events have been celebrated here. Apart from having the best- tasting dimsum, what really hooked us with King Chef is their affordable price. Every time with dine here, we always make sure that we are within their 'Dimsum Promo Feast' time window.

So what is the 'Dimsum Promo Feast' about? Everyday from 7:00AM - 9:00AM, 2:00PM - 5:00PM and 9:00PM - 12:00MN, all their dimsum specialties are half their price! It is indeed a feast since we can order all we want without worrying how much is our total bill. :D  Here's their menu during the promo period:

Build your own pizza at Project Pie Philippines

It has been over a month since I updated my blog- a lot of back entries waiting to be written and photos waiting to be posted. I haven’t had the luxury of time to blog since I started my new work but I promised myself to catch up. Last March, I was given the opportunity to fly to Macau for a training provided by my employer. I can’t wait to share my experience since that was the first time I traveled abroad alone.  

For now, I’ll be sharing my thoughts on a much-raved pizza place which I and my sister tried last month. It has just been surprising that of all my current 16 posts, my one and only food review featuring Scarsdale Doughnuts has been the most read so I decided to write about this one. My other 15 posts are about travels and photos. I think it shows that my readers (well my friends) are more interested in my food trips rather than itineraries. Haha! Don’t worry guys, there are more to come!

Bangkok, Thailand- Siem Reap, Cambodia border crossing| How to purchase a bus ticket

My most recent trip to Bangkok was last August 2013 with my equally adventurous (and crazy?) friend Vanessa. To make the most of a 10-day vacation, we decided to travel to two Southeast Asian cities, Bangkok and Siem Reap. When we were planning our itinerary, Air Asia wasn’t offering Bangkok-Siem Reap flights yet and Bangkok Airway plane tickets were expensive for us, so the only option was to cross borders by bus.

Here is a guide on how to reach the bus station and how to book a ticket going to Siem Reap from Bangkok:

We bought our tickets at the bus station two days in advance of departure to ensure our seats. The easiest way to reach Mo Chit Terminal Station is by taxi which costs approximate THB150. However if you prefer to commute like we did the first time we went, you can take the BTS sky train and city bus. If you’re near any BTS sky train station, take the train following the Silom line and alight at Mo Chit station.  Exit to the side of Chatuchak Market. From there, take any bus which passes by since all buses will reach Mo Chit North Terminal Station. When in doubt, just ask the bus driver or bus assistant. From my experience, Thais are very friendly. Even though most of them speak a little English or not at all, they are willing to help.

1.      The Mo Chit North Terminal Station is a huge compound of buses, shops and eateries. The bus will stop only up to the opposite side of the main ticketing booth. To get to the main ticketing booth, you have to walk around 5 minutes. 

       

From the last stop of the bus, walk straight facing the 7-11 sign and look for this walkway.

Travel Snapshots | Angkor Wat, Siem Reap, Cambodia

Angkor Wat or City of Temples is the largest religious monument in the world. It is the main attraction in Siem Reap and major reason for the massive increase of tourists in Cambodia since its restoration in the 90's.  

Our tuktuk driver dropped us at Angkor Wat on the first and second day of our tour. It was a bit drizzling when we arrived on the afternoon of the first day. I was glad it just lasted for a few minutes and we were able to explore the temple. 

Sweet Finds| Artisanal Doughnuts and Croughnuts at Scarsdale

I absolutely love doughnuts! I have probably tried every doughnut shop I have stumbled upon in Manila. It is also my favorite pasalubong at home. My mom always tells me that I should cut down on sweets because diabetes runs in our blood, but I never listen. I just think it’s one of the best desserts/snacks or whatever you call it, ever made!

We tried the recently opened Scarsdale when I went yesterday to S&R Shaw Boulevard with my aunt, sister and cousin. From the same company which created Go Nuts Donuts, Scarsdale opened last January 22. Being fan of Go Nuts Donuts for a long time, I expected the same quality from Scarsdale and it didn’t disappoint.

The anatomy of Scarsdale's delicious doughnut

Where I Stayed in Kuala Lumpur | Irsia BnB Guesthouse and Hotel De Grand Orchard

I am a budget traveler. As long as the place is clean, safe and near public transportations and malls, I’m in. I stayed at Irsia BnB Guesthouse when I traveled to Kuala Lumpur with my friends and Hotel De Grand when I was with my family.

From time to time, I get lazy to take photos; hence all pictures here are lifted from Agoda website.

Irsia BnB Guesthouse

34 Lorong 1/77A, Jalan Changkat Thambi Dollah, Off Jalan Pudu, Bukit Bintang, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

The guesthouse garden where breakfast is also served

Travel Snapshots | Breathtaking View of Baguio City

These photos were taken last December 2013 on our way home from a family vacation in Baguio City. I requested my Dad to pullover to the side of the road so I can take a few snaps of what I define as perfect scenic view: beautiful mountains, heavenly skies and bright sun shining over the Summer Capital of the Philippines.

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia | Two-Day Itinerary

Selamat Datang!

This pic was taken while riding on the second level of the Hop-on Hop-off bus.

This two-day itinerary is a compressed version of my two trips to Kuala Lumpur. If you only have one day to spend in the Garden City of Lights, I would recommend following the first day schedule since the second day is dedicated to shopping only. Of course if you still have time and energy to shop after your first day tour, you can drop by at the famous shopping centers listed here. After all there should always be time for shopping, right girls?

Up and Away at Genting Highlands

Genting Highlands or more popularly known as Resorts World Genting, is an integrated hill resort consisting of hotels, casinos and theme parks situated 51km northeast of Kuala Lumpur. The resort is accessible by car, but we opted to ride the Skyway Cable Car which became the highlight of our tour.

From Gombak Station of the Kelana Jaya line, we bought a tour package which included round trip transfers of the Genting express bus and skyway cable car and lunch buffet at Coffee Terrace. The bus going to the main station of Genting Skyway leaves every 30 minutes. I suggest going to Gombak Station one hour before your desired schedule since tickets easily sell out. Worry not for the waiting time, you can drop by at Batu Caves before your bus arrives. If you also want to stay on a short queue at the Genting Skyway, better book your tickets at around 9AM.

The Genting Express Bus is properly maintained and has comfortable seats.

Travel Snapshots | Batu Caves

Located 13km north of Kuala Lumpur, Batu Caves is popular for the huge statue of the Hindu God. It attracts thousands of tourists and worshipers all throughout the year. One must climb 272 steps to reach the cave and have a startling view of the city.

To go to Batu Caves, board the train following the Kelana Jaya Line and alight at Gombak station. From there, hire a cab which should not cost you more than MYR10.

Bangkok, Thailand | 5-Day Itinerary

Sawasdee Ka!

The 5-day itinerary I have created here is a summary of the places I have been to while traveling to Bangkok on three different events. Some are must-see, some are forgettable but like any other experience, each of us has our own views so I included them all. Having read numerous travel guides, there are a lot of things to do in the City of Smiles other than what’s written here. Feel free to leave a comment for any Bangkok tourist destination you think is worth visiting. I have also blogged about some of the tours below, so click away for more details.

Bangkok guides we got from the airport which we didn't even use. Yes, these become a part of my souvenir collection. Photo Credit to my travel buddy, +Mc Santos RN

Where I Stayed in Bangkok: Suk 11, Best Comfort Bangkok Hotel, and Tune Hotels

Whenever I travel, the most important factor I look for in a hotel/hostel is its proximity to public transportation. For me, taking the train is the best way to save time and money. Secondly, the establishment should be near malls or restaurants. This is for the sake of my happy tummy especially during breakfast and dinner.

In the three occasions I’ve been to Bangkok, I stayed in different accommodations. Except for Suk 11 which was recommended by my cousin, I turned to Agoda for reviews and bookings for Best Comfort Bangkok Hotel and Tune Hotels. 

Suk 11

What I got: Basic Twin Room (Shared Toilet and Shower) for me and my friend for Php1,040* per night

What I loved about it: Suk 11 has a homey ambience. No wonder it is very popular among backpackers and long-term travelers. They also serve delicious breakfast comprising of bread, fruits and desserts. Their room is spacious too. One of our friends joined us on our third night and the hostel only charged her at a minimum price. We just joined the two beds together so the three of us could fit in. 

What I didn’t quite like about it:  There is only one common toilet and shower per floor with no exhaust fans.

Plus points: Suk 11 is just a 5-minute walk from the BTS Nana Station. There are also a lot of restaurants nearby.

Photo credit to my travel buddy, +Mc Santos RN

Impeccable Wood Carvings at the Royal Thai Handicraft Village

In-between our tour from Damnoen Saduak Floating Market and Samphran Elephant Ground and Crocodile Zoo, we dropped by the Royal Thai Handicraft Village. The art center showcases  a vast collection of wood carvings created by exceptionally talented Thai artists. From small to huge art works, Buddha images to elephant statues, tables to cabinets, every piece is hand-crafted brilliantly.

Some of the busy artists at work

Fun day at Samphran Elephant Ground and Crocodile Zoo

Included in our Damnoen Saduak Floating Market Tour was visiting the Samphran Elephant Ground and Crocodile Zoo.  The zoo wasn’t exactly a place where you can find or learn more about Thai culture or history, but it was entertaining altogether.

Kids and kids at heart loved watching the elephants worked like they were once used by Siamese and Burmese armies, and also had fun as they played football and showed some dancing skills.

Damnoen Saduak Floating Market Tour

If you read Bangkok “must-see” or “must-go” places for tourists, the Floating Market is almost always on the list. Despite reading the posts of The Sole Sisters and Flip Travels, I still insisted on going to the very popular destination during my second trip to Bangkok with my family. I happily took care of the itinerary and booked a package via online which included a tour to the Samphran Elephant Ground& Crocodile Zoo.  

The Floating Market is situated 110km west of Bangkok. It took us about 2 hours to arrive at the station where we boarded on a long-tail boat going to Damnoen Saduak.

Photo credit:  Phil Parker

Ayutthaya and Bang Pa-In Royal Palace Tour

Also known as the Ancient City, Ayutthaya is Thailand's former capital for over 400 years. Its rich history and impressive ruins make it one of the most visited tourist destinations in the country. It is approximately 80km from central Bangkok and an estimated hour-away drive. There are public rides available going there, but for convenience sake, I decided to book a full day tour for me and my friend via online. The cheapest package I found costs ฿850 each person which includes round trip transfers, lunch and Bang Pa-In Summer Palace tour.

We were promptly picked up by our tour guide at 6:15am as stated in the confirmation e-mail. But like any group tour, the other tourists were picked up as well in their respective hotels. We arrived in Ayutthaya at around 8am. 

Our tour started off with Wat Phu Khao Thong or the Monastery of the Golden Mount. And yes, unlike backing off  at Wat Arun, we eagerly climbed the steep stairs of this beautiful chedi. Getting down was another story. J 

Must-see Bangkok Temples (Day 2)

The morning after our first day in Bangkok was filled with much anticipation. We were hoping that the Grand Palace would already be available for tourists following an official event yesterday. There was no way we would miss it the second time. Missing the Grand Palace would also mean not being able to see the Temple of Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew), one of Thailand's most significant temples. 

Entrance fee: ฿400

How to get there: We followed the same route going to the Temple of the Reclining Buddha yesterday. From the nearest BTS station from our hostel, we took the Sukhumvit line and alighted to Siam station, then interchanged to Silom line. If you're staying near the Silom line, then it would be easier for you since you don't need to change trains anymore. From Siam station, we got off to Saphan Taksin station.We took the 'Exit 2' and walked straight until we found the Central Pier. We no longer bought the One Day river pass  since we only intended of going to one station. Instead of buying from the ticket office, we just paid at the Chao Phraya Express boat. One-way ticket going to N9 pier station/ Majaraj Pier was around ฿13.

Walk straight from the pier station, until you will find the white walls of the Grand Palace.

First blog entry: Must-see Bangkok Temples (Day 1)

It's the year 2014! How time indeed flies too fast.

I still vividly remember back in March 2012, I was in one of my flights to Cebu for a work-related trip. I read an article in the in-flight magazine of Cebu Pacific, Smile, which featured two empowered women who left their corporate jobs, embarked on a 6-month trip to South East Asia, and set up the now well-known blog, We are Sole Sisters. I knew I always wanted to see the world, but reading the article inspired me to make travel happen for real. Few months later, I invited my friend to join me for a trip to Bangkok. So here I am, after encouragement and support from some of my friends, finally sharing my first travel diary to other fun-loving and adventurous travel enthusiasts out there!