Yes, you read it right? That's exactly my question! You see, the whole family will be on holiday this coming December. We will be visiting my husband's family in Dumaguete on December 19, stay there until the 26th and travel to Cagayan de Oro to visit my family. But how?
The only way is via Cebu Ferries (boat) but upon checking their website, they only have one trip per week and that's every Sunday. Now this is a problem! We have to be in Dumaguete on the 26th (Monday) because that is my hubby's birthday and we need to be in Cagayan de Oro on the 27th or 28th as we still have to travel around 4 hours to my hometown in Bukidnon. Oh no! How? Any brilliant idea to share here?
I can only think of traveling to Cebu first and perhaps stay there overnight with my Tita. Then fly again via Cebu Pacific or Philippine Airlines but I am sure it will be too costly. Perhaps, just go straight to the boat and sleep there overnight? I don't know! I have 2 months to think.
The only way is via Cebu Ferries (boat) but upon checking their website, they only have one trip per week and that's every Sunday. Now this is a problem! We have to be in Dumaguete on the 26th (Monday) because that is my hubby's birthday and we need to be in Cagayan de Oro on the 27th or 28th as we still have to travel around 4 hours to my hometown in Bukidnon. Oh no! How? Any brilliant idea to share here?
I can only think of traveling to Cebu first and perhaps stay there overnight with my Tita. Then fly again via Cebu Pacific or Philippine Airlines but I am sure it will be too costly. Perhaps, just go straight to the boat and sleep there overnight? I don't know! I have 2 months to think.
Agoda.com is an online travel agency that you can book and buy cheap hotel deals. I have been asking around of a good yet cheap hotel or apartment since we are a group of six, four adults and two kids. Booking the backpackers way is also expensive. Some hostels charged S$30 so if you multiply by 6, will come out more expensive than booking two rooms in a 2 star hotel. So thats what I did.
I booked at Hotel 81 Star via Agoda.com website. My friend recommended this hotel around Geylang. Although there are several hotels around the area with the same price range, I booked this hotel since my friend already stayed here. We will not be staying in the hotel anyway, so we really just need the bed and bath. And if kids around, the hotel must have a television, a better alternative will be samsung tvs because of its picture quality and cinematic experience.
I booked at Hotel 81 Star via Agoda.com website. My friend recommended this hotel around Geylang. Although there are several hotels around the area with the same price range, I booked this hotel since my friend already stayed here. We will not be staying in the hotel anyway, so we really just need the bed and bath. And if kids around, the hotel must have a television, a better alternative will be samsung tvs because of its picture quality and cinematic experience.
For two days now, I have been browsing for a reasonable and affordable accommodation in Singapore. I have searched through area by area but ended up buying around Geylang area as it is a lot cheaper compared to Marina Bay where the exhibition will be. As long as the hotel is near an MRT station, we are good to go! We are not so fussy anyway as long as it is clean.
Singapore is such a beautiful country. My kids will be traveling with us thus we must make extra precautions and plan the activities ahead of time. Night Safari is one of our top priority. It is the world's first wildlife park at night. The kid's amazing world will surely rock when they hear the roar of wild animals like lions, tigers, hyenas and leopards. And dinosaur? I am not sure if they have it there - but that would be an added fun.
We will be flying on the 25th of this month via Cebu Pacific Air. It's a low cost airline so we cannot expect a great ride with meals and others stuff on board but as long as it is cheap and clean, again - its good already! Who knows, one day we can afford to fly with jet charter. That would be awesome! A private jet for the entire family! Sounds good to me!
Anyway, aside from Night Safari, any suggestions on kid-friendly activities? Oh before I forget, I also want to bring the kids to Universal Studios. Where else?
Singapore is such a beautiful country. My kids will be traveling with us thus we must make extra precautions and plan the activities ahead of time. Night Safari is one of our top priority. It is the world's first wildlife park at night. The kid's amazing world will surely rock when they hear the roar of wild animals like lions, tigers, hyenas and leopards. And dinosaur? I am not sure if they have it there - but that would be an added fun.
We will be flying on the 25th of this month via Cebu Pacific Air. It's a low cost airline so we cannot expect a great ride with meals and others stuff on board but as long as it is cheap and clean, again - its good already! Who knows, one day we can afford to fly with jet charter. That would be awesome! A private jet for the entire family! Sounds good to me!
Anyway, aside from Night Safari, any suggestions on kid-friendly activities? Oh before I forget, I also want to bring the kids to Universal Studios. Where else?
With superb cosmopolitan centers, 550 lush national parks, 16 World Heritage-listed natural wonders including the breath-taking Great Barrier Reefs, snow-topped mountains covered with lavish rainforests, unique with endangered wildlife, 74 pristine, palm-fringed islands, stunning beaches with wild-roaring waves, and majestic ranges and astonishing Outback, there is absolutely no wonder why millions of tourists from all over the world decide to spend their holidays in this largest island on earth every year. That’s why getting the best and cheapest Australia flights especially during peak holiday travel season might give you a hard time as well as headache.
How nice would it be to be able to explore this country of incredible cultural diversity and outstanding natural beauty and wonders without spending so much? With over 50 different airlines and online travel agents, the best way to getting the cheapest flights to Australia whether it’s off or peak season would be by comparing airfare and holiday packages and tours prices online, and booking in advance. Flying is the fastest way to travel within Australia but traveling by a coach or a bus is more economical and comfortable. In Melbourne, the tourist bus and tram tours are free.
Having so much beauty to explore, sceneries to see, and things to do, few days are not enough to cover every must-see places in the country. Thus, surfing the net that features the country’s wonders, deciding on the kind of experience you’re seeking, and making an itinerary of your desired destinations on your travel would be particularly important. So don’t just try to get yourself the cheapest flight available, also plan your journey ahead to get the most out of your trip or you may never get enough.
How nice would it be to be able to explore this country of incredible cultural diversity and outstanding natural beauty and wonders without spending so much? With over 50 different airlines and online travel agents, the best way to getting the cheapest flights to Australia whether it’s off or peak season would be by comparing airfare and holiday packages and tours prices online, and booking in advance. Flying is the fastest way to travel within Australia but traveling by a coach or a bus is more economical and comfortable. In Melbourne, the tourist bus and tram tours are free.
Having so much beauty to explore, sceneries to see, and things to do, few days are not enough to cover every must-see places in the country. Thus, surfing the net that features the country’s wonders, deciding on the kind of experience you’re seeking, and making an itinerary of your desired destinations on your travel would be particularly important. So don’t just try to get yourself the cheapest flight available, also plan your journey ahead to get the most out of your trip or you may never get enough.
Have you been to Japan? In my lifetime, not yet but Japan is a very beautiful country. Thus, this country belongs to my travel wish list.
The tourism industry of Japan suffered so much due to the recent calamities. But amidst these bad news, Japan is still and for sure safe.
Japan's tourism agency quoted that they are planning to give away 10,000 free round-trip tickets to tourist provided that they must blog and spread over social media sites their detailed travel plans and reviews their experiences.
I say YES! I will surely make a lovely post. As a matter of fact, we have a couple of Japanese clients who are enticing us to visit their country.
The tourism industry of Japan suffered so much due to the recent calamities. But amidst these bad news, Japan is still and for sure safe.
Japan's tourism agency quoted that they are planning to give away 10,000 free round-trip tickets to tourist provided that they must blog and spread over social media sites their detailed travel plans and reviews their experiences.
I say YES! I will surely make a lovely post. As a matter of fact, we have a couple of Japanese clients who are enticing us to visit their country.
Still on our upcoming trip, I heard that Singapore is a very expensive country. So as early as now, I search for cheap hotels which is quite near Suntec because thats where the exhibition for Fespa is going to be held. Uncle C lived in Singapore for 5 years, and he knows the country by heart, but its also nice that I have some information especially that I will be travelling with my kids. Any important tip you want to share with? Perhaps, affordable hotel, theme parks, good food or even a detailed blog post of your previous Singapore trips will do.
My kids kept on pestering me for their newly applied passport although I told them that the delivery will only be on October 14 - thats one week before our travel. They even asked me why it took that long? This is our first out of the country trip with the whole family - oh well, minus my little Alexa - she is too small for the trip. Thus, I am making extra effort to make it memorable, probably search for digital scrapbooking layouts so I can display our photos online.
My kids kept on pestering me for their newly applied passport although I told them that the delivery will only be on October 14 - thats one week before our travel. They even asked me why it took that long? This is our first out of the country trip with the whole family - oh well, minus my little Alexa - she is too small for the trip. Thus, I am making extra effort to make it memorable, probably search for digital scrapbooking layouts so I can display our photos online.
It is interesting to see the statistics of fraternities in the US. As per the infograhic here:
It is admirable to see that most influential people in the US be it politicians, businessmen or leaders - mostly belong to a fraternity group. Same here in the Philippines but recently, its alarming to see the so called "hazing" with the group.
The American college fraternity is one of the few institutions in the US higher education structure which was not borrowed from European models. Not surprisingly, it has been a symbol of American college student independence, pride, and leadership. Here are some interesting statistics about fraternities in the US.
It is admirable to see that most influential people in the US be it politicians, businessmen or leaders - mostly belong to a fraternity group. Same here in the Philippines but recently, its alarming to see the so called "hazing" with the group.
Mexican Food: Slightly different but tantalizingly delicious andpalatable!
Cuisine Friday, October 07, 2011
Are planning to hold a one-of-a-kind event? Are you looking for unique reception catering exquisite food? Or a banquet hall Frisco that can conveniently hold your gathering and special events? Or a restaurant where you can simply party and chat with your friends or loved ones?
Well, a Mexican restaurant Frisco might just be right for you. Yes, I recommend a Mexican restaurant. Surprised? Well, you shouldn’t be. Because Mexican cuisine is award winning and well-known all over the world for varied flavors, colorful decorations and variety of spices and ingredients used. In fact, it has been added by UNESCO to its lists of the world’s “Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity”! Though style of Mexican dishes originates in Mexico, it has a long and varied history that has now evolved through the years of blending indigenous cultures and influences.
For those who craves for hot and spicy foods, the Mexican cuisine can surely offer you a lot of dishes to choose from since chilli peppers play a big part in the traditional mexican food. However, most of Mexico’s gastronic delights are not always spicy unlike what others say and believe although one can always add some minced chilli, chilli powder, or spicy salsa to any mexican dish. Some dishes are simply creamy and sweet and are compromised of mild combination of corn and beans but are still totally flavorful and equally delicious such as the tacos, cheese crisps, burritos, tostadas, sopes, flautas and enchiladas. Aside from being luscious and delightful, most of these Mexican dishes are really good for those who are health conscious since they are lower in fat and calories and are bursting in important vitamins and nutrients.
Still not convinced? So hurry up and try it! You’ll definitely be captured by the cuisine’s rich, incredible flavors and will surely say that it’s deliciously different!
December is fast approaching and the kids are already excited for their long vacation break. I used to buy our tickets months before our departure to get really the cheapest deal. But wasn't able to buy due to financial constraints - cost cutting, expenses here and there, etc.
Here is the plan: December 17/18 - fly to Dumaguete, stay there until December 26 (daddy's big day), then proceed to Cagayan to spend the rest of the holiday with my mother. Back to Manila on January 2, 2011.
I have been searching for cheap flights / cheap airfares for Manila to Dumaguete on December 2011 (after the school holiday) but to no avail. Last week, I was informed by a friend that Cebu Pacific offers promo fares for Manila to Cagayan de Oro. Without second thought, I searched online and indeed was able to book and buy 6 tickets for Manila Cagayan for only Php 8,000. But- instead of January 2, I bought the December 31 flight as it was on sale. Manila - Cagayan de Oro ticket purchase - solved!
Today, I saw in my email that Manila-Dumaguete is now again offered at Php 588.00. I tried to book again but instead of 17/18 - I choose 19 as it is on sale. Unfortunately, the credit card already declined due to insufficient credit line I guess. lol So I opted to pay using BDO.
Upon choosing the , you will be given a 14 digit Confirmation No. Take note that you have to pay only until 11:59 PM of the day of your booking. Failure to pay might cancel your booking. Your itinerary receipt will show your status as Confirmed with Payment Due.
In paying with BDO, you have two options - either paying through Over-The Counter (in the branches) or through Internet Banking.
Over-The-Counter:
1. Go to any BDO Branches, fill up the Payment Slip Form (orange)
2. On the Company Name field - write Cebu Pacific
3. Leave the Institution Code and Product Code blank
4. Subscriber Account Number field, fill up the 14-digit Confirmation Number.
5. Subcriber's Name : use any of the Passengers Name.
6. Pay the exact amount (not more/not less)
7. Once payment is confirmed, your Itinerary Receipt will be emailed with Status: CONFIRMED. Please call the Customer Service at (63-2) 70-20-888 for any questions and clarifications.
INTERNET BANKING
1. Click the Pay Bills option
2. Click the Company without prior enrollment
3. On the Subscriber Account Number - fill up the 14-digit Confirmation Number.
4. Subscriber's Name : any one of the Passengers Name.
5. Pay the exact amount. You will receive an email confirming your payment and you will be given a Reference Number. Record it.
6. Wait for 24 hours, if no email is received regarding the confirmed booking, call the Customer Service at Telephone Number: 70-20-888.
I have successfully paid Php 5,700.80 using BDO's Internet Banking and am currently waiting for my confirmed booking. Good luck!
Here is the plan: December 17/18 - fly to Dumaguete, stay there until December 26 (daddy's big day), then proceed to Cagayan to spend the rest of the holiday with my mother. Back to Manila on January 2, 2011.
I have been searching for cheap flights / cheap airfares for Manila to Dumaguete on December 2011 (after the school holiday) but to no avail. Last week, I was informed by a friend that Cebu Pacific offers promo fares for Manila to Cagayan de Oro. Without second thought, I searched online and indeed was able to book and buy 6 tickets for Manila Cagayan for only Php 8,000. But- instead of January 2, I bought the December 31 flight as it was on sale. Manila - Cagayan de Oro ticket purchase - solved!
Today, I saw in my email that Manila-Dumaguete is now again offered at Php 588.00. I tried to book again but instead of 17/18 - I choose 19 as it is on sale. Unfortunately, the credit card already declined due to insufficient credit line I guess. lol So I opted to pay using BDO.
Upon choosing the , you will be given a 14 digit Confirmation No. Take note that you have to pay only until 11:59 PM of the day of your booking. Failure to pay might cancel your booking. Your itinerary receipt will show your status as Confirmed with Payment Due.
In paying with BDO, you have two options - either paying through Over-The Counter (in the branches) or through Internet Banking.
Over-The-Counter:
1. Go to any BDO Branches, fill up the Payment Slip Form (orange)
2. On the Company Name field - write Cebu Pacific
3. Leave the Institution Code and Product Code blank
4. Subscriber Account Number field, fill up the 14-digit Confirmation Number.
5. Subcriber's Name : use any of the Passengers Name.
6. Pay the exact amount (not more/not less)
7. Once payment is confirmed, your Itinerary Receipt will be emailed with Status: CONFIRMED. Please call the Customer Service at (63-2) 70-20-888 for any questions and clarifications.
INTERNET BANKING
1. Click the Pay Bills option
2. Click the Company without prior enrollment
3. On the Subscriber Account Number - fill up the 14-digit Confirmation Number.
4. Subscriber's Name : any one of the Passengers Name.
5. Pay the exact amount. You will receive an email confirming your payment and you will be given a Reference Number. Record it.
6. Wait for 24 hours, if no email is received regarding the confirmed booking, call the Customer Service at Telephone Number: 70-20-888.
I have successfully paid Php 5,700.80 using BDO's Internet Banking and am currently waiting for my confirmed booking. Good luck!
We will be attending the Fespa Asia 2011 in Singapore end of October. In line with this, Uncle C suggested to bring the kids along so they can visit Singapore too. I am worried as our company is currently in cost cutting measures and the whole family is flying to Singapore for holiday?! Nah! Lets just say - business with pleasure!
Anyway, we bought the tickets already for 6 persons. Luckily, we still have ample time to renew the passport. Perhaps, luck is with us as we booked an earlier DFA appointment although I heard that the queue is long. The boys passport expired last January 2011, their appointment was on September 29 and was advised that the passport will be delivered on October 14 - in time for our October 25 trip.
Oh well, I hope the trip will push through especially that we have bought the tickets already. And I hope that we could find new suppliers for vinyl stickers.
Anyway, we bought the tickets already for 6 persons. Luckily, we still have ample time to renew the passport. Perhaps, luck is with us as we booked an earlier DFA appointment although I heard that the queue is long. The boys passport expired last January 2011, their appointment was on September 29 and was advised that the passport will be delivered on October 14 - in time for our October 25 trip.
Oh well, I hope the trip will push through especially that we have bought the tickets already. And I hope that we could find new suppliers for vinyl stickers.
The Top 3 Destinations in Latin America for Low Cost Villa Rentals
Accommodation Saturday, October 01, 2011
Descended from old world cultures and evolving into something uniquely their own, the countries of Latin America also play host to some of the nicest tourist spots in the world. Here are three villa rentals with bargain rates in and around this scenic region.

[View of Las Mananitas Penthouse, a low-cost luxury villa in Cabo San Lucas]
Located in the friendly Cabo San Lucas region, the Las Mananias Penthouse is an attractive three-bedroom villa with rates from $450 - $795, making it a great choice for a mid-sized family or a few couples who can split the cost to lower the price even further. The introductory cost isn’t the only thing that makes this one of the greatest values among the Cabo San Lucas villas, though. The Penthouse has not just a swimming pool and Jacuzzi, but also fitness facilities, tennis, beachfront access, outdoor cooking, and perhaps best of all, resort privileges at the associated Las Mananitas Resort. Whether you want to stay for a week or a month, this villa is an ideal choice for a vacation.

[View of Mariposa Mexico, a low-cost luxury villa in Mexico]
Located in the greater Mexican area, Mariposa Mexico is one of those Mexico villas with astounding facilities at excellent price. Going as low as $280 - $840 per night, this two-bedroom villa features a panoramic view of scenic San Miguel de Allende and a walk of mere minutes to shops and the popular Jardin Park. With a comfortable central pool, decorative bell tower, well-equipped kitchen, and business facilities for those who’d like to take their work with them, Mariposa Mexico is a bargain villa and a prime destination for those looking to take a trip to experience the unique culture of Mexico.

[View of Reserva Conchal Malinche Group, a low-cost luxury villa in Costa Rica]
With a spectacular view of the ocean and a surprisingly high rate of choice in where you want to sleep, this is one of the Costa Rica villas with a rate most attractive to families and groups. The cost is between $130 and $940 per night, with the primary factor being how many of the four bedrooms are being rented; indeed, this villa can accommodate several families at a fairly similar price for each one, making it as convenient for groups traveling together as it is for a couple or small family. With access to a children’s pool and activity area, private beach access, indoor and outdoor amenities, resort privileges, computer equipment, and a swimming pool, among many other features, this plush villa is a gem being sold at a bargain.

[View of Las Mananitas Penthouse, a low-cost luxury villa in Cabo San Lucas]
Located in the friendly Cabo San Lucas region, the Las Mananias Penthouse is an attractive three-bedroom villa with rates from $450 - $795, making it a great choice for a mid-sized family or a few couples who can split the cost to lower the price even further. The introductory cost isn’t the only thing that makes this one of the greatest values among the Cabo San Lucas villas, though. The Penthouse has not just a swimming pool and Jacuzzi, but also fitness facilities, tennis, beachfront access, outdoor cooking, and perhaps best of all, resort privileges at the associated Las Mananitas Resort. Whether you want to stay for a week or a month, this villa is an ideal choice for a vacation.

[View of Mariposa Mexico, a low-cost luxury villa in Mexico]
Located in the greater Mexican area, Mariposa Mexico is one of those Mexico villas with astounding facilities at excellent price. Going as low as $280 - $840 per night, this two-bedroom villa features a panoramic view of scenic San Miguel de Allende and a walk of mere minutes to shops and the popular Jardin Park. With a comfortable central pool, decorative bell tower, well-equipped kitchen, and business facilities for those who’d like to take their work with them, Mariposa Mexico is a bargain villa and a prime destination for those looking to take a trip to experience the unique culture of Mexico.

[View of Reserva Conchal Malinche Group, a low-cost luxury villa in Costa Rica]
With a spectacular view of the ocean and a surprisingly high rate of choice in where you want to sleep, this is one of the Costa Rica villas with a rate most attractive to families and groups. The cost is between $130 and $940 per night, with the primary factor being how many of the four bedrooms are being rented; indeed, this villa can accommodate several families at a fairly similar price for each one, making it as convenient for groups traveling together as it is for a couple or small family. With access to a children’s pool and activity area, private beach access, indoor and outdoor amenities, resort privileges, computer equipment, and a swimming pool, among many other features, this plush villa is a gem being sold at a bargain.