Myeongdong: Food Trip

If you are looking appetizing and affordable street food then South Korea is the perfect place for you. Street foods are sold everywhere from markets to subway stations.

Myeongdong is considered as one of the most visited tourist attraction in Seoul, South Korea. A paradise for all beauty enthusiasts. But that’s not all what they have, they have a wide variety of Korean street food, cafes, and restaurants to fill your tummy in between shopping. You can take MRT to Myeongdong Station and use Exit 5,6,7,8 and the busy shopping street will welcome you.

Many food stalls provide an English menu with its corresponding prices. I only featured few, but there were many more choices to choose from. Stalls could change location from time to time. Most street food items costs around 2,000 – 5,000 Won (Php 94.00 – 250.00)

Here are my top 7 street food to check out during your visit to MyeongDong:

Korean Pan Fried Dumplings (Goon Mandu) 

Korean Spicy Chicken Skewers (Dakkkochi) 

Croissant Bungeoppang

Buttered Shrimp

Halal

Nutella Banana Crepe

Crispy Tempura 

Myeongdong has a diverse range of street food and the best time to visit the street is during evening time. If you are planning to visit Myeongdong, always leave some space in your stomach. And for the ladies out there, always remember to bring your shopping bags.

 

 

Seoul Korea 2017| Buchon Hanok Village + N Seoul Tower

We went to a few places on the first day of our trip in Korea. It was a more “touristy” day for us as we visited the typical tourist destinations in Seoul:  Bukchon Hanok Village and Namsan Seoul Tower.

Bukchon Hanok Village

Bukchon Hanok Village is home to hundreds of traditional houses, called hanok, that date back to the Joseon Dynasty. The name Bukchon, which literally translates to “northern village,” came about as the neighborhood lies north of two significant Seoul landmarks, Cheonggyecheon Stream and Jongno. Today, many of these hanoks operate as cultural centers, guesthouses, restaurants and tea houses, providing visitors with an opportunity to experience, learn and immerse themselves in traditional Korean culture. – http://english.visitkorea.or.kr/

The Bukchon village has very interesting architecture and beautiful hanoks but guests are expected to make less noise as people are still living there. It took us a while to figure out the way to the most popular place where there are full of tourists.  As we were walking our way up the village, watching roof tops at higher place was such an amazing sight to see. The houses were a lot of fun to photograph with. The village is a perfect escape from the busy streets of Seoul, it was like I am in a set of a Korean drama.

The admission fees to Bukchon Hanok Village is Free.

Directions
[Subway]
– Go straight for about 300m to arrive at Bukchon Hanok Village.

[Bus]
Get off at Bukchon Hanok Village Bus Stop.
– Maeul Bus Jongno 02

Bukchon Hanok Village really offer visitors a great cultural experience. I have always been fascinated of how all these historical places are preserved until this time.

 

N Seoul Tower

Namsan Seoul Tower, more commonly known as N Seoul Tower, is one of Seoul’s most popular places to visit in Korea. Its most visited by both locals and foreigners and is very popularly known as that place with all the love locks. I don’t think you can say you’ve visited Seoul without visiting the N Seoul Tower.

There are two ways to reach the tower. First, to ride the cable car, you will have to pay a roundtrip fee of 8,500 Korean won. This will take you to and from Namsan Mountain in under 5 minutes each way. Second, to find the elevator lift that will take you to the Namsan Cable Car station. Leaving Myeondong Station through Exit 3, you’ll have to walk until you reach the Hoehyeon intersection and then turn left. The best thing about taking the lift is that it is free.

We did not get tickets for the observatory because I think it’s too expensive so we just decided to take photos of the Locks of Love while there was still enough sunlight.

Tagaytay City: 6 hours experience

Tagaytay City, one of the nearest and most accessible weekend get-away from the busy streets of Manila, Philippines. Tagaytay is one of the most popular tourist spots in the Philippines.  It is famous for its well-known cold temperature, breathtaking tourist spots, delicious cuisine and fun activities perfect for friends and families. Tagaytay is just a one and a half to two hours bus or car ride from Metro Manila.

I had visited Tagaytay many times with my family. Last week, I went to Tagaytay but for this time I am with my friends to visit its breath taking scenery and try its ever famous Bulalo and Buko Pie. Here are some suggestions you might also want to visit if you are in Tagaytay:

People’s Park in the Sky

The most popular tourist destination in Tagaytay is the Palace in the Sky is an incomplete mansion which was built during the Marcos era. The place is surrounded by green scenery and bright clouds on all sides of the mansion which gives a magical view of Taal Volcano and the entire city of Tagaytay. If you get tired and hungry, there are a number of stores selling drinks, snacks, and pasalubong.

Admission:
Entrance – P30
Parking Fee – P20

Picture taking with the horse- P50
Picture taking with the animals- P100
Restroom- P10

Schedule: opens every day from 7:30 AM to 6:00 PM

The sad thing about Tagaytay People’s Park in the Sky is that there are fees everywhere.  From the parking to the entrance and even the use of their restrooms were a bit off. I must say that the park wasn’t that well maintained by the management. The only highlight of the park was the breathtaking views of the City.

Sky Ranch Tagaytay

Sky Ranch is an amusement park situated in the center of the city. You can enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Taal Lake, take your lunch or enjoy the different activities in the park. Just be reminded that every attraction has different ride fee.

Weekdays (Monday to Friday) – Php80.00
Weekends (Saturday & Sunday) and Holidays – Php100.00
Free entrance for children 3ft and below

Sky Ranch has numerous attractions to try. One of it is the Sky eye (Ferris Wheel) which is far one of the biggest Ferris wheels in the country.

Sky Eye Ride Fee: Php 150.00/person

 

 

 

Restaurants in Tagaytay are known for serving delicious local cuisine. Below are some of the places which you can visit to taste the best of Tagaytay’s cuisine:

Bag of Beans

Bag of Beans is one of the popular cafe, restaurant and bakeshop in Tagaytay. If you are looking for a sweet escape the Bag of Beans is the right destination for you. The place resembles a secret garden getaway with its forest like garden and rustic interior design.

 

Leslie’s Tagaytay Bulalo

A definite staple when you’re in Tagaytay with one of the best bulalos in town. Their bulalo offers a contrasting comfort to the cold weather.  Aside from the food, what I love about Leslie’s is its breath taking view. But I must say their price has become quite high.

 

Starbucks Tagaytay
The place where you can find the most beautiful Starbucks store in the country!

How To Plan Your Perfect Road Trip

I’m a huge fan of road trips. Taking a road trip can be a perfect way to travel and see more of your place. But before you hit the road, you’ll need to do a little planning and preparation first. Here are few tips that will help you plan your perfect road trip.

 

 

Plan your destination

You should know your destination, but deciding on which road to pass and stops can really depend on you and the people you are with. Always remember that no matter how much you plan your, you should always expect things to go differently.  Keep an open mind and just go with the flow and live the moment. There may be road construction or road accidents that will slow things down along the way. Try not to stress about it too hard and just enjoy the company you have. It’s also a good idea to keep loose plans because you never know when fun and interesting opportunities will arise.

 

Road trip playlist

You can use an online streaming service or use your radio car as your music source.  Music is like your ultimate road trip companion. If you wanted to chill and relax then listen to songs that are quiet and reflective. But if you wanted to be entertained and energize then listen to songs that are upbeat. Because of this, the songs you choose will set the vibes and mindset of the whole road trip.

Here’s a playlist of some of my favorite road trip songs. Add some of your top choices to make the ultimate soundtrack for your trip.

1. Khalid- Young Dumb & Broke
2. Dua lipa- New Rules
3. Bruno Mars- That’s what I like
4. Taylor Swift- Look what you made me do
5. KendricK Lamar- HUMBLE.

 

Bring Extra Cash

Driving can obviously cost less money than flying, but it still comes with extra costs. For example, food, pasalubong, souvenirs, as well as any fun stuff you plan on doing along the way. Road-tripping long distances allows you different delicacies from different cities. One can’t simply pass through multiple cities without trying the foods that make them famous.

 

Check your Car

Days or weeks before your road trip, you need to make sure that your vehicle is in good condition. This is very important for you and your passenger’s safety, and a good conditioned car won’t break down on you in the middle of nowhere. Most importantly, make sure you have all the proper tools you need to change a flat in your trunk, and that you’re spare tire is always ready.

 

One thing I’ve learned is that it is not that much about where you travel but how and with whom you travel.

Road trips with family and friends are full of adventure and discovery. Memories like these are worth remembering. Now move and go plan your next road trip as quickly as possible. Call your friends or family and pick them up. Go and have an awesome adventure, trust me my friend; you won’t regret it.

 

Road Trip: Southern Cebu

College can be hard, stressful and sometimes overwhelming. Taking a road trip with friends isn’t. The most important reason why a road trip with your best friends is amazing is the fact that it is more fun with them.
Last October 17, 2017, my college best friends and I went on a spontaneous road trip towards the south. We didn’t have any idea where are we heading but we wanted to explore the south of Cebu. We left the house around 8:45 am and the adventure begins.
While on our way to the Molave Milk Station in Barili, Cebu to taste their ice cream and goat’s milk, we did a quick stop to take photos of the breathtaking view. Cebu never fails to amaze me.

When we arrived at the Molave Milk station, we immediately notice the improvements done in the place. It has more space for the visitors and more Instagram worthy backgrounds. We bought four different flavors which are strawberry, buko, avocado, mango which each cost around P120.00 per serving. My favorite was the avocado flavor.

While we were heading to our next destination, we did a quick stop to take our lunch at a resto-bar in Car-car which was located beside the beach. Their food was good and their place was clean but I must say that they have a poor customer service.

After that, we went to Toledo, Cebu to visit the Maze at Capilla Sta. Ana. The place has an entrance fee of P200.00 for tourists, P100.00 for adults and P50.00 for students. Well, I must say that the place is absolutely Instagram worthy.

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Our last destination for the day was at West 35 in Balamban Cebu. It was such a breathtaking view. It feels like we are in the clouds. The place also has an entrance fee of P50.00

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A road trip is for me is a different experience from a standard vacation. You are not bound by staying in one place or in one room. You are able to go to the places you wanted to visit without having to be at a specific place at a specific time. Spontaneous road trips are so much better than planning the places you wanted to visit. Get your best friends and take a road trip. A road trip with your best friends is something that you will always treasure in your heart and you will look for an opportunity to do it again and again.

Malapascua Island: 6 hours experience

Malapascua is an island located in Northern Cebu, Philippines. Its main attraction is its rich marine sanctuary. I must say that this place is a haven for divers out there. But surely this is not the only activity you could do on the island. If you wanted a peaceful and relaxing vacation, this island is for you.

 

The trip was completely random. My family and I decided to visit the island Thursday night and then we went to the island immediately the morning after that. It was just a quick vacation since my dad is a busy person and I still have school the next day. But even though it was just a short time, I definitely enjoyed our northern trip. So that’s why I decided to share my experience and hopefully, this will encourage you to see the beauty of Malapascua Island.

How to get to Malapascua Island?

From any point of the world, take a flight to Cebu (CEB). If you are already within the Philippines, commercial flights to Cebu are also available. Ferries are also available.

We lived in the Southern part of Cebu specifically in Talisay City. It was a 4-hour trip to the port of Maya. But if you don’t have your own car, well there are much more other ways to get there. First, through the public or private van. Approximately it would range around 150pesos for the fee. Second, through air-conditioned or non-air-conditioned bus in North Bus Terminal, Cebu City. Approximately it would range around 150-190pesos for the fee. It will also take around 4 hours to reach Maya port.

Afterward, you can take the ferry or boat from Maya port to Malapascua Island. In the port, there are many ferry/boat companies that can take you to the island.  If you are a big group you can charter a boat to accommodate you all. There is a trip every 30 minutes from 06:00 AM to 03:00 PM.

Tip: If you wanted the freshest and the cheapest Mangoes, Malapascua is your best friend. We bought 10 kilos of Mangoes and we spent only 500 pesos. Yes, believe me, guys.

Here are some of my photos in the Island:

 

 

 

Heavenly Hong Kong

Hong kong is just a few hours away from the Philippines. This has been our 6th time to visit Hong Kong. Honestly, Hong Kong is one of my favorite countries because the life there is very calm and relaxing. I always look forward every time we will visit Hong Kong.

Our adventure started with shopping. Yes, you heard it right. Girls, shopping in Hong Kong is heaven. I would really recommend for you to visit Mongkok and Ladies Market. Most of their products are sold way cheaper than in our country. I don’t know with yours. What I love about shopping in Hong Kong is that they have a wide variety of brands from the most luxurious brands to the most affordable brands.

Our next stop was at Victoria Harbour. You will see the beautiful Hong Kong lifeline with its constant parade of vessels and breathtaking surrounding scenery of the city. This will surely take your breath away.

Our last destination was Heritage 1881. This place will transport us to Victoria-era Hong Kong.

I really love taking pictures of their road. I also don’t know why but for sure its Instagram-worthy photos.

Every trip has to end but for sure we will end ours with a bang. Til’ we meet again Hong Kong.

Magnificient Manila

I have always been a fascinated with ART.  I may not be as artistic as Leonardo Da Vinci or Michelangelo but for sure I enjoy taking pictures with paintings. So last April, we went to Manila, Philippines. It was a short but memorable trip. And our adventure starts here.

Our first destination was the National Museum of the Philippines.

Our next destination was Venice Grand Canal at McKinley Hill, Taguig. This was inspired by one of Italy’s most romantic cities, Venice Grand Canal has elevated the shopping and lifestyle and dining experience in the Philippines.

Our last destination was at Bonifacio Global City to eat Cold Stone Ice Cream. Yay for food.

It was a short trip but for sure we had a blast. Til’ we meet again Manila.

Beautiful Bohol

If you are looking to get a tan at white sand beaches, be fascinated by the Chocolate Hills or simply get entertained on a river cruise, visit ancient churches, name it and Bohol has it.

It is my 3rd time to visit Bohol. Bohol is just a short ride away from Cebu. Several fast craft company offers their services daily for tourist traveling from Cebu to Tagbilaran and Tagbilaran to Cebu.  Tagbilaran is the capital of Bohol.

Places to see in Bohol:

Chocolate Hills
It’s one of the most famous tourist destinations in the Philippines and the number one tourist place in Bohol. This hills of a generally conical and almost symmetrical shape are covered with a grass that turns to chocolate brown during the dry season.

Loboc River Cruise
Just imagine yourself enjoying a buffet lunch in a floating restaurant while sailing in the Loboc river which is surrounded by lush green plants while being serenaded. Overall,  the food was so delicious, the river was clean and beautiful, and the waterfalls at the end of the route were picturesque. Eating lunch has never been this fun and relaxing.

Tarsier Sanctuary
You Bohol Trip will not be complete without seeing and taking photos with tarsiers. It is sometimes known as the world’s smallest monkey but it is neither a monkey or even the smallest primate.

Hanging Bamboo Bridge
Shaky, slippery and scary. These were the words that entered my head while I was crossing the  Hanging Bridge especially because it was raining. Its railings were made of steel and flooring of bamboo, this bridge isn’t really the most calming or the safest bridge in the world. But at least it was fun.

Man-made Forest (Mahogany Forest)
It is filled with mahogany trees, in different heights, the spread of its branches, and the thickness and shapes of their leaves give the forest its enchanting appeal. Every one of them was planted by a man.

Bohol Bee Farm
This is the place to be if you want to relax and unwind in Panglao Island. This place is all about organic. Try their ice cream and their unique cone. Surely, you’ll want for more.

 

Hennan Resort Alona Beach
One of Bohol’s most popular Beaches, Alona Beach on Panglao Island. The perfect place to relax, swim and indulge.

For sure this will not be my last not be my last visit in Bohol. See you again, Bohol.

Visiting Vietnam

Our three day visit in Ho Chi Minh City, formerly called Saigon, was filled with of amazing food, cheap tours, a little bit of shopping and learning its rich history.

Our Vietnam experience started right at when left the airport. Streets of Ho Chi Minh is surrounded by hundreds of buzzing scooters, literally.

We arrived in Vietnam around 6pm. Vietnam is an hour late from the Philippines. As soon as we checked in our hotel, we went out in the streets of Ho Chi Minh to discover its culture and their unique street food. Luckily, our hotel is just a few minutes away from the central market which offers a wide variety of street food and good music.  After eating, we head towards the night market which was just a minute walk from the central market.

 

On our first day, we did a half-day tour to the Cu Chi Tunnels.  It is worth visiting because of all the stories behind the tunnels.

You will have a chance to enter the tunnel and crawl through 20 meters, but I didn’t try it because it was dark and yeah I’m a big coward. But my mom and sister tried going in the tunnel which they said that it really wasn’t that scary inside tho. The tunnels themselves were only a meter tall, and there was barely and light.  Many people in my tour exited only after halfway, because they couldn’t take the tiny space they had to crawl through.  I can’t imagine using those tunnels everyday for shelter and a method of transportation. Hands down to all soldiers.

 

Notre Dame Cathedral

 

General Post Office

The Central Post Office is one of the oldest buildings in Ho Chi Minh City. When we went there the facade of the Post Office was still under construction but today the construction  is done. The Post Office is a  significant symbol of the city, just like its opposite neighbor Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral. It has long been the busiest post office of the country.

 

Reunification Palace

The iconic Reunification Palace made its name in global history when in 1975 a tank belonging to the North Vietnamese Army crashed through its main gate – thus signifying the end of the Vietnam War.The Reunification Palace is a landmark not to be missed by any tourist visiting Ho Chi Minh City.

 

Read more at: http://www.vietnam-guide.com/ho-chi-minh-city/reunification-palace.htm?cid=ch:OTH:001

War Remnants Museum

It primarily contains exhibits relating to the Vietnam War, but also includes many exhibits relating to the first Indochina War involving the French colonialists.

 

That was a short but a memorable trip. Nevertheless, I would return again to Ho Chi Minh City in the near future.