C'est la vie

REMINDER — C’est la vie

Life is not a competition– There comes a time when you feel that you are left behind. You compare, you doubt yourself, you feel pressured and useless but you should not be! You have your own clock, timeline and path. Success is not a race that is measured by who finished it earlier but a […]
REMINDER — C’est la vie

Life is not a competition– There comes a time when you feel that you are left behind. You compare, you doubt yourself, you feel pressured and useless but you should not be! You have your own clock, timeline and path. Success is not a race that is measured by who finished it earlier but a step by step process of creating your dreamed future and planned goals with determination. No need to rush, trust the process and timing.

2. It’s okay to dream big– Don’t be afraid of failures and don’t settle for easy wins. Always dream big, don’t be discouraged and trust yourself. There will always be a setbacks, it’s never been easy but it will taught us to push harder. Don’t settle for less and aim for that big goal!

3. Get out of your comfort zone– Try something new! It’s time to go out of your comfortable nest and move toward your fears. Life is pretty easy if we are not figuring anything out but life is amazing if you discover what you’re really made of…

4. Take a break- Life can overwhelming and pretty awful at times where things get so piled up where we need to take something off our plate. It’s okay to loosen up some time! Do something nice, clear your head, go away and spend time on the things that will make you happy.

5. Choose positivity- There’s a saying that ” We cannot direct the wind but we can adjust the sails” — Train your mind to see good things in every situation. We cannot control everything but positive mindset can help you to understand things rightly and to take things positively.

Japan Travel Guide

Japan is one of the well-known country in the World and listed in everyone’s bucket list. It is famed as the home of Manga, Anime, mouth watering cuisines and awe-stunning attractions. So here’s a simple guide if you are planning to visit the land of Rising Sun and places you must include during your trip.

Japan is called Land of the Rising Sun because the country was so close to where the sun rises.

We visited on the 1st week of May and it is the perfect time for us to enjoy the mild weather but since the Philippines is a tropical country and we only experience dry and wet season, the weather is still bit cold for me. So it’s up to you if what kind of clothes you’re going to bring since it depends on your cold tolerance.

Winter (December-February)
Spring (March-May)
June-August (Summer)
September-November (Autumn)

So here are the places we visited for 5 days and ideas about what you can see and to expect.

1.Teamlab Boarderless

It is a group of artworks that form one borderless world wherein the art moves freely that will take 3-4 hours to explore. Be camera ready because the whole place is too instagramable and you will be mesmerized by the beauty of lights which is mostly showcased in this museum. Just expect queue from the entrance and in every exhibition.

Better if you will buy tickets ahead of time, it is available in Klook for just PHP1500/person (Subject to change)

2. Nezu Shrine and Azalea Garden

The next place we visited is the Nezu Shrine which is one of the oldest shrines in Japan where you can witness beautiful Torii gates like Fushimi Inari which is in Kyoto.

There are estimated 80,000 shrines in Japan and people visit shrines in order to pay respect or to pray for good fortune.

Inside the Shrine, you can also witness the stunning and beautiful flowers of Azalea Garden. This garden will show you over 3000 Azalea plants of 1000 varieties including rare breeds. You can just buy the tickets in the attraction itself for around 300 yen only.

3. Mount Fuji

I’m really excited when I realized that I will be able to witness the World’s famous and Japan’s tallest peak (Mount Fuji). Its real beauty is beyond my expectation and we are blessed to witness it since in some cases, tourists weren’t able to see it because of the weather conditions and fog.

It is 2 hours drive from the city but since traffic is part of our daily lives, it took us 4 hours before we reached the area. Don’t forget to bring a thick jacket because it’s really cold due to the area’s high elevation.

4. Lake Kawaguchi

The next place we visited is the Lake Kawaguchi, this is a few minutes away only from Mt. Fuji and 2nd largest of the Fuji five lakes. We took a cruise to explore the area and from there, you can witness the beautiful view of Mt. Fuji from afar.

Fuji Five Lakes is a region at the base of Mount Fuji, Japan.

5. Izakaya Alley

It is one of the famous Japanese bars for tourists and locals. This is the best place to experience the drinking culture in Tokyo and the best area for bar hopping. Be patient since most of the time, the area is fully booked especially at night.

6. Sensoji Temple

It is Japan’s oldest temple and most visited by tourists to take photos of the iconic Kaminarimon gate. Around the area, there’s a lot of stalls selling a variety of Japanese street foods and traditional dishes which you can try. It is the best place also if you are looking for souvenirs (Keychains, clothes, goods)

You can also witness locals wearing Kimono and we grabbed the chance to take pictures with them and yes, they’re so approachable!

7. Shibuya Crossing

Shibuya is one of the World’s busiest crossing and most of the tourists is can be found here. Compared to other areas, it is more alive at night. You can witness large amazing billboards, the biggest shopping malls to buy Authentic goods, and areas to hang out like bars, and cafes.

8. Hachiko Statue

Do you remember how many times you cried when you watch the true story of Hachiko? Yes! You can find its remarkable statue as well near the Shibuya Crossing

Hachiko was a Japanese Akita dog remembered for his remarkable loyalty to his owner. He continued to wait for over nine years to his deceased owner.

9. Tokyo Tower

It is the symbol of the city and from the top, you can see the amazing view of the whole place.

10. Tokyo Disney Resort

Who would not love to visit the “Happiest Place on Earth?”

Rides in Disney Sea is advisable to adults and it can only be found in Tokyo Japan.

11. Ichiran Ramen

You should not miss this one if you visit Japan! it is one of the famous places to taste the real Authentic Japanese Ramen and though its price is pretty bit expensive, you will still not regret it.

Expect a long queue since they usually have limited seats and small areas.

12. Akihabara

For Anime lovers, surely, this is your dream place, this is the area where you can find all anime and rare anime figures in a cheaper price and it is also known as the home of the electronic shops in Japan.

I bought one for John Rey because he is an avid fan of One Piece, I am having a hard time which to buy because of so many choices. I bought it for Php2500 only.

13. Pokemon Center

I couldn’t believe that Pokemon Center is actually real. You can see different Pokemon stuff and figures here. They also have Pokemon restaurant as well but it is on a reservation basis that’s why we failed to dine. Haha!

You can buy all kinds of Pokemon stuff toy but it’s a little bit pricey 😁

There’s a lot of places we visited but this is my recommended spots that you should not miss and it will surely make your visit a memorable one.

For the visa, here are the lists of requirements you have to prepare.

1. Duly accomplished and signed APPLICATION FORM (A4 Size)
2. Original Passport – 6 MONTHS VALID PRIOR TO DEPARTURE DATE
3. 2 pcs. Colored Picture with WHITE BACKGROUND, 45 x 45 mm or 2×2
4. Latest Income Tax Return
5. Original Bank Certificate
6. NSO Authenticated Birth Certificate (issued within a year)
7. NSO Marriage Contract (issued within a year – if married)
8. Authorization Letter (for Visa Filing and Pick-up)
9. Daily Schedule in Japan
For Employee:Original Employment Certificate
Approved Leave of Absence

For the Bank account balance, no specific amount needed as long as it is sufficient to support all your travel needs. There’s no need to buy and book tickets prior to your visa application, you can just input your preferred Airline and Hotels to avoid any cancellation charges if in case there is a visa denial.

In terms of budget, better if you will prepare more than your expected travel cost since everything in Japan is a little bit expensive especially the food. So if you want to save more, better if you will buy your meal from a convenience store. Don’t worry it’s Japanese food as well but a normal meal is ranging from Php300-500/person.

If you love shopping, prepare more budget since Japan is a shopping haven for everyone. It is the home of Daiso and Japan Home Centre which we often visit to buy useful and unnecessary stuff as well (guilty).

And don’t worry to get lost because the locals is very approachable and helpful if you will be needing some help in terms of directions. Japanese are known for their good attitude and being hospitable.

My whole Japan trip is truly one of my unforgettable experience and l am looking forward to come back, soon!

You can watch this one: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EaC-nQ6lI6Y&feature=share

Weekend Getaway in Riverfront Garden Resort

January is such a special month for me and John Rey because we always celebrate his birthday and celebrating means travelling for the both of us.

Since I always love to try new experiences. I searched for less crowded places where we can get in touch with the nature as well and I found the Riverfront Garden Resort.

I saw several blogs regarding this resort and I noticed that everyone was truly satisfied during their stay so I decided to spend our weekend here.

Riverfront Garden Resort is located in Maragondon Cavite which is 2 hours away only from Manila.

How to get there: If you are from Cubao, ride a bus going to Baclaran and alight at Costal Mall and then look for the provincial buses going to Ternate Cavite and get off in PUP-Maragondon from there, you can hire tricyles which will bring you directly to the resort.

This is a perfect place if you are looking for a relaxing and peaceful getaway. The resort is not crowded since they limit the number of visitors and recommended for couples.

There are several sofa beds around the area where you can take a rest, take a nap and have some picture.

They play acoustic music all day and you will ended up singing and having your last song syndrome 😂

They also have the Bali inspired nest where you can take good pictures.

They also offers Glamping experience for day tour and overnight. Take note of the Camping rules!

This is our tent and it can occupy maximum of 2 person only but they also have Cabanas and rooms for big groups.

The tent accommodation includes mattress,pillows and toiletries. It also equipped by 2 electric fans and outlets so no need to worry about charging your gadgets. They also offers airconditioned tents, but it is best to try this one for real glamping experience.

You can take good picture in every corner of the resort. TOO INSTAGRAMABLE!

This tent is for picture purposes only. I thought it’s the actual tent accommodation that’s why I’m hesistant to book before because it’s too small.

No need worry about your meals and snacks, they also offers home cooked foods. It is made to order so better if you will advise them ahead of time. Food price is ranging from Php100-250/meal PLUS they accepts CREDIT AND DEBIT CARDS payment.

This is their updated rates for 2020. You can book thru their Facebook Page, just be patient since it might take some time before you receive a response due to the large number of their inquiries, better if you will call them instead.

Our whole experience and stay is definitely worth and we are looking forward to go back again soon! 💛

Explore IloIlo and Guimaras for just 3 days!

IloIlo is one of my bucket list because of their well known Gigantes Island and suddenly Philippine Airlines announces their upcoming seat sale and I immediately bought ticket during their promotion period for just PHP3000 (roundtrip fare)

But other than Gigantes Island, is there any other attractions that we can see in Iloilo? that’s the biggest question I have in mind after the panic buying moment which everyone does every seat sale (guilty)

So here’s a guide if you are planning to visit the “City of Love”

Iloilo is known as “City of Love” and home of the most loving, friendly, kind-hearted, and soft-spoken Filipinos otherwise known as the Ilonggos.
Iloilo is known as “City of Love” and

DAY 1:

Upon our arrival, the 1st place we visited is the Garin farm which is the only resort that integrates agriculture, leisure, and pilgrimage ALL IN ONE.

This is the farm entrance and you need to take around 465 steps before you reach the top.
The entrance fee is PHP150/person

All the way up, you will see different biblical scenes.

And once you reach the top, the first thing that you will see is the human sized figure of Jesus Christ.

Beside, there will be a hole which serves as entrance to a dark tunnel that everyone must pass by and once you reached the end, there will be a bright light which is the starting point of the main highlight of the resort.

The dark tunnels symbolizes all the hardships we encounter in our lives and the bright light in the end of the tunnel means we are still hopeful.

After Garin farm we also visited Miagao chuch, which is one of the oldest church in Iloilo and declared as one of the UNESCO World heritage site last 1993 and what makes it unique is the constuction materias used such as egg and corals.

To end our 1st day, we decided to try one of the must dishes in Iloilo such as BATCHOY.

PHP150-180/serving.

DAY 2:

On our second day, we visited the main reason why I wanted to visit Iloilo which is the Gigantes Island.

Before you reach the island, you must travel first to the Carles port which is 2 hours away from the city and then take a boat going to the island.

Better if you will book your Gigantes tour through travel agency instead of DIY since the boat in the port is very limited and based on first come first serve basis.

Finally!!! Hidden paradise.