tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18842703923454902572024-03-09T16:39:44.112+08:00Tales of the Twisted TravelholicTwisted Travelholichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02774181460166133997noreply@blogger.comBlogger26125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1884270392345490257.post-9990437826410413262017-04-28T15:47:00.001+08:002017-04-28T15:51:20.122+08:00Visa-Free Entry to Taiwan for Philippine Passport Holders<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Since late 2016, Taiwan offers visa-free entry to qualified Philippine-passport holders. This was announced in a post in the official website of Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in the Philippines and you can read more about it here: </span><a href="http://www.roc-taiwan.org/ph_en/post/1421.html">http://www.roc-taiwan.org/ph_en/post/1421.html</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">To be eligible, the following conditions must be met:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">1. Applicant's passport must have remaining validity of at least six months starting from date of arrival in Taiwan</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">2. The applicant must possess an onward/return air or ferry ticket</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">3. The applicant must have never been employed as a blue-collar worker in Taiwan</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">4. Applicant must possess a resident card or entry visa issued by any of the following countries: Australia, Canada, Japan, Korea, New Zealand, any of the Schengen countries, United Kingdom or United States. This excludes work permits.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The online process will only take a few minutes to complete. Simply go to </span><a href="https://niaspeedy.immigration.gov.tw/nia_southeast/" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: blue; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">h</a><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://niaspeedy.immigration.gov.tw/nia_southeast/" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: blue; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">ttps://niaspeedy.immigration.gov.tw/nia_southeast/</a>, and fill out the required information. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">a. Enter you middle name either in the Surname or Given Name field. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">b. For permanent resident cards with no expiry date, enter 999 for year, 12 for month and 31 for day in the Date field.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">You are then asked to review the information you've provided and after another click, you are now a holder of a Travel Authorization Certificate to Taiwan which allows you to enter and stay in Taiwan for 30 days within 90 days from the date of application (multiple entries allowed).</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This visa-free entry is also offered to passport holders of the following countries:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">India, Indonesia, Vietnam, Myanmar, Cambodia and Laos.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">A few things to remember:</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">1. If your visa has been stamped VOID, CANCELLED or CANCELLED WITHOUT PREJUDICE, you have to present a renewed or updated visa. Otherwise, you are not eligible for a Travel Authorization Certificate.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">3. Online application is only for holders of valid regular passports (no temporary emergency or informal passports).</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">4. If you make a mistake, you can always make a new application.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">5. Make sure to print your Travel Authorization Certificate and be ready to present it with your supporting visa when you enter and leave Taiwan.</span><br />
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Twisted Travelholichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02774181460166133997noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1884270392345490257.post-90901100076409651312017-01-31T21:27:00.001+08:002017-01-31T21:27:31.035+08:00Weekend in Davao<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9toslGj10BM-Xv6NIZw7SNIdSGuaqnL6KI43rjRBRKbOMM4CgXdGUGgx51tuC_q3HWflEcwUwb23i4Dw5l_3z9ltVlu9rH23kLzEZYoP8VYjBabBPLfla8de2Rrk9uJz7UxAtwzGkHqhQ/s1600/20160709_IMG_5824.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9toslGj10BM-Xv6NIZw7SNIdSGuaqnL6KI43rjRBRKbOMM4CgXdGUGgx51tuC_q3HWflEcwUwb23i4Dw5l_3z9ltVlu9rH23kLzEZYoP8VYjBabBPLfla8de2Rrk9uJz7UxAtwzGkHqhQ/s400/20160709_IMG_5824.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i style="text-align: justify;">Jul 8-10, 2016</i><span style="text-align: justify;">. It's another jam-packed weekend for the travelling warriors and our destination for the week is the very popular --- Davao City!</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-align: start;">Located in southeastern Mindanao, this city is very much known for two things: Duterte and durian. Davao is the hometown of current Philippine President, Rodrigo </span></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Duterte, where he also served as the city's mayor for several terms</span>. The effects of his leadership are still very much present to this day - the city is clean, smoke-free and the people are disciplined. Everyone (including public utility vehicles) are following the speed limit. For someone who deals with the daily horrendous traffic in Manila, seeing PUV drivers who drive within speed limits and loads/unloads in correct places is a sight to behold. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-align: start;">As ever present as Duterte's influence is the durian fruit and all things durian. Aside from fruit vendors flocking in every place, you can find durian in every food imaginable -- from fruit shakes to candies to ice cream to coffee flavor! Yup, there's no shortage of this fruit here. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Being the biggest city in the Philippines (in terms of land area), we know we couldn't possibly cover all the must-do's in just one weekend. But we tried our best and here's a quick run-down of what we did in the short time we have:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Samal Island</b>. </span>Samal Island is just a quick ferry ride from the city and is known for its white sand beach. There are a lot of resorts on the island ranging from budget accommodations to posh resorts.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We stayed at Secdea Beach Resort, as recommended by my sister. The resort is beautiful, the rooms are spacious and it's reasonably priced. I suggest you stay here on a weekday to avoid the crowd of day visitors during weekends. (</span>We initially wanted to stay at the other popular posh resort, but due to their unreasonable child policy, we decided otherwise).</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Sea Shell room at Secdea Resort</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Two of the three pools in the resort</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Beach area</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We just stayed here for a night and it was enough to relax, enjoy the resort's amenities and binge on their sumptuous food.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b>Eden Nature Park and Resort. </b>A quick drive away from the city is t</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">his man-made mountain resort offering a variety of activities and attractions. There are currently three adventure rides to try - the Sky Rider (which is a zipline), Sky Swing (a giant swing similar to the one in SandBox Pampanga) and Sky Cycle (a suspended bike ride). </span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Eden is home to about a hundred-thousand pine trees</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Since we got here really late, we decided to just try the Sky Cycle (the only ride we haven't tried yet anywhere!). The line was long and so we decided to try the other free activities in the area while waiting for our turn. </span>They have a flying fox (a mini zipline-like activity) and a long obstacle course with tire obstacles, monkey bars, and a lot more adrenaline-pumping, sweat-inducing activities.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We had so much fun racing in the obstacle course and before we know it it's our turn to try the Sky Cycle.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-align: start;">As fun and as easy as it looks like, the Sky Cycle is the longest, scariest, and most excruciating ride I've tried in my entire life. Not even the crazy rollercoasters come close to this one. Unlike in a zipline or a rollercoaster ride, where you just stay still, close your eyes and scream your lungs out until the ride is over, the Sky Cycle requires that you exert effort to pedal so you can actually move and finish the ride! That, or you get stuck suspended in mid-air, about 60 feet above ground (with people cursing you for delaying the line). </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: start;">I was fighting back tears as I tried very hard to pedal while screaming and watching my kids and hubby gain lead on me. </span></span>When I finally reached the other side, I really wanted to cry as I realized that we have to go pedal back to where we started! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I'm very happy to write that I survived the Sky Cycle, and it's officially the scariest ride I've ever tried. But then, don't just take my word for it, go give it a try!!! :)</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDgNXrFkPw6QvUw847OunsdYligejPRKeLPDN5mdeQLJBOxd5DnN9lmJx5tiAxAOnf7_VJs5JThyphenhyphenyP6ppRgg3F6_Vj7_aKt3D3iJq303_lvYi8SMgZN5sOSPxqbrTp-cV0l3Q2sX7fYKp9/s1600/20160710_G0530930.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDgNXrFkPw6QvUw847OunsdYligejPRKeLPDN5mdeQLJBOxd5DnN9lmJx5tiAxAOnf7_VJs5JThyphenhyphenyP6ppRgg3F6_Vj7_aKt3D3iJq303_lvYi8SMgZN5sOSPxqbrTp-cV0l3Q2sX7fYKp9/s400/20160710_G0530930.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Camp Sabros</b>. This adventure camp/mountain resort is located a bit farther out the city, approximately two-hours away. It offers a captivating view of Mt. Apo, the highest peak in the country. Unfortunately for us, it was a very cloudy day and we couldn't get a clear glimpse of the mighty mountain.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Camp Sabros is well-known for its zipline rides as they are one of the first ones to offer such in the country. They also offer accommodations for overnight trips. </span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Overnight accommodation at Camp Sabros</span></td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXQ88jAzlJAlxvwTrjaPHJzWgYOIeF50EZDiu7Q9yNc4aglVqTCYj1X-CmWyfZ-Ey9xGiCYW-MqIedkKtR3iw0RYDh8iQHcRzgjptvh_urglMYt0EcDHN6wm8Fu_Czciyn5bC-09Tms7Id/s1600/20160710_IMG_5838.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXQ88jAzlJAlxvwTrjaPHJzWgYOIeF50EZDiu7Q9yNc4aglVqTCYj1X-CmWyfZ-Ey9xGiCYW-MqIedkKtR3iw0RYDh8iQHcRzgjptvh_urglMYt0EcDHN6wm8Fu_Czciyn5bC-09Tms7Id/s400/20160710_IMG_5838.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXWWLLeCoMX00Bik6Ukzi2yFu_vV5pchSpUPtBM1ZowLxu69eWl9z_Oflld4BD24j7HLsohXcYLkn64Vg22j9Z943wI0_WhDQ6wvxyUmWLe-T9COpUg1BTwKs_n6ujnn4r3ELWsskufMPA/s1600/20160710_G0651131.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXWWLLeCoMX00Bik6Ukzi2yFu_vV5pchSpUPtBM1ZowLxu69eWl9z_Oflld4BD24j7HLsohXcYLkn64Vg22j9Z943wI0_WhDQ6wvxyUmWLe-T9COpUg1BTwKs_n6ujnn4r3ELWsskufMPA/s400/20160710_G0651131.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Instead of bringing your car all the way up the mountain, you can park your car halfway up. Then ride a horse the rest of the way to the resort and enjoy the scenic view. When you get there, you might opt to have a quick brunch at their restaurant which serves mostly Filipino cui</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">sine.</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQupD2TQuUjzi2oV6F5gydiwe_9IEdEGsoVsJsbLnH8oXJgCcd_MxhvifEOXgW8ZGzhyphenhyphenoSnFUVTRVlp_lO0hfuqh6LL0WAAh5kFHKLi186O9ReL8kBjC71oFAjR42l5rR0SoHa1QCR3vso/s1600/20160710_G0550954.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQupD2TQuUjzi2oV6F5gydiwe_9IEdEGsoVsJsbLnH8oXJgCcd_MxhvifEOXgW8ZGzhyphenhyphenoSnFUVTRVlp_lO0hfuqh6LL0WAAh5kFHKLi186O9ReL8kBjC71oFAjR42l5rR0SoHa1QCR3vso/s400/20160710_G0550954.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Despite the high elevation, I enjoyed the zipline ride here. The view is breathtaking and it's not as scary because you can do it with a partner. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Davao Crocodile Park.</b> Of course a trip to Davao will not be complete without a visit to the famous Crocodile Park. </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The entrance fee includes admission to the Crocodile Park, Butterfly House and a seat to see the fire dance show by the Tribu K'Mindanawan.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Be sure not to miss the Crocodile shows. They feature comedic acrobats trying to cross a tightrope hanging over the crocodile pen. They also make the crocodiles "dance" by baiting food and making them jump up vertically. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">They also have an ostrich pen and you can feed them off your palms (there's a minimal fee for the ostrich food). Now, if you don't like the idea of giant birds (as big as humans) pecking at your palm, you can choose to feed the gentler koi fish at the pond.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipBoxyZ75f1g3HwKh2J-vp58Wj4ZMrA2GJA_KjBjZG6iLGSrUO3M7KEmW5gtiKYrjJ_jKFGX554yiMKKF_SKSsu_hfUs28uzrWJdeOtEKLcrPzxOJYIkYXfFXn6Fw_5eP07E0kBpYDlEQG/s1600/20160710_GOPR1178.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipBoxyZ75f1g3HwKh2J-vp58Wj4ZMrA2GJA_KjBjZG6iLGSrUO3M7KEmW5gtiKYrjJ_jKFGX554yiMKKF_SKSsu_hfUs28uzrWJdeOtEKLcrPzxOJYIkYXfFXn6Fw_5eP07E0kBpYDlEQG/s400/20160710_GOPR1178.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Up close and personal with an ostrich</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Now if you're up for an exciting and new experience, you might want to try the Snake Massage. Luckily for us, it was already closed for the day, as this activity is only available until 5pm (apparently, snakes don't really like it when you make them work overtime).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Aside from exciting experiences, you can also try the exotic food available here such as crocodile ice cream (made with crocodile eggs), ostrich ice cream (made with ostrich eggs) and civet coffee (made from beans pooped out by civets, mammals that look like huge rats).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We tried the ostrich ice cream (which looks like the safest amongst the three) and it tastes like an ordinary vanilla ice cream just not as smooth and creamy.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">When the sun sets, it's time to watch the fire dance show by the Tribu K'Mindanawan.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We weren't able to visit the Butterfly House because we still have a flight to catch. Also, t</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">here are more places within and near Davao that we wanted to visit (like Mati), more activities to try (like white water rafting), but for now, this is where we end our quick but jam-packed trip. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><b>Secdea Beach Resort</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Email: secdeabeachresort@gmail.com</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Tel: +63 82 305 2774</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Mobile: +63 925 892 6072</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><b>Eden Nature Park and Resort</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Eden Bayabas</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Toril, Davao City</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Tel: +63 82 2991020</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Fax: +63 82 2990313</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Mobile: +63 918 9307590</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Email: info@edennaturepark.com.ph</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Website: www.edennaturepark.com.ph</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><b>Camo Sabros</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Sitio Baras, Brgy. Kapatagan</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Digos City, Davao del Sur</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Tel: +63 82 2840579</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Mobile: +63 912 8689981</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Email: inquiry@campsabros.com</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Website: www.campsabros.com</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><br /></span>
<b style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Davao Crocodile Park</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Diversion Highway</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Ma-a, Davao City</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Tel: +63 82 2868883</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Fax: +63 82 2214671</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Email: parkinfo@crocodilepark.ph</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Website: www.crocodilepark.ph</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><br /></span>Twisted Travelholichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02774181460166133997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1884270392345490257.post-52425212463037978322016-11-10T22:54:00.002+08:002017-02-07T22:20:02.430+08:00Anvaya Cove, Bataan<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9uOn8DnsVs3V9oZbLXEbeYBs5ip0espfMQYLVV-l4sF3_vElVqNprCM7tUEEB0zQBAQF7ZWL8HZMkKYJ4sJpsl7LME2-Fbpa1M_d1PFbE-pTXdmzy6SKKzbbOXUoxJqWxjp_7X42BKJln/s1600/20160911-IMG_6196.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9uOn8DnsVs3V9oZbLXEbeYBs5ip0espfMQYLVV-l4sF3_vElVqNprCM7tUEEB0zQBAQF7ZWL8HZMkKYJ4sJpsl7LME2-Fbpa1M_d1PFbE-pTXdmzy6SKKzbbOXUoxJqWxjp_7X42BKJln/s400/20160911-IMG_6196.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>Sep 11, 2016</i>. Anvaya Cove Beach and Nature Club is a leisure development of Ayala Land located in Morong, Bataan. It's just a short drive away from Manila via NLEX-SCTEX, which makes it a perfect getaway during weekends. If you're visiting on a long weekend, </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">prepare to be greeted by throngs of other guests all eager to get a respite from the daily grind. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbs_tgBLGzXfOFBf5Be_hB6AfDwFUnv9YAuNBoK6QQajTDXaSP6bXiQy_fCjNgKpEVULWT6JBkLBUZsKNTDQmG8cY8NzFgsQHTjELpii9UZYuA2-bKUz25Y2X4dXlAlsMOyyYaa4_fHzEE/s1600/20160911-IMG_6200.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbs_tgBLGzXfOFBf5Be_hB6AfDwFUnv9YAuNBoK6QQajTDXaSP6bXiQy_fCjNgKpEVULWT6JBkLBUZsKNTDQmG8cY8NzFgsQHTjELpii9UZYuA2-bKUz25Y2X4dXlAlsMOyyYaa4_fHzEE/s400/20160911-IMG_6200.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The Bamboo Restaurant at the main pavilion serves buffet lunch. It's reasonably priced and the food is really good. Our favorite? The dessert of course! We couldn't have enough of their sinfully delicious crepes. </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">For those who are watching their weight, the restaurant also serves a la carte dishes. The Hainanese Chicken is worth a try.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We spent most of our time lounging by the sundecks at the pool area while the kids swam to their hearts content.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Their "White Sand Beach" has white sand at the Gazebo and playground area but turns darker as you approach the beach. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The Water Sports Pavilion offers tons of activities including Banana Boat ride, kayaking, stand-up paddle board and aquatrike. The kids had a blast riding the banana boat into the sunset.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We also played football, beach volleyball and frisbee! Equipment are available for borrowing at the Game Room.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We stayed at the Sea Breeze Veranda - a low-rise condominium within the Anvaya Community. It was a spacious two-bedroom unit with sweeping views of the mountains.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: justify;">Access to the Club is strictly for members only. We were able to visit the place by renting a unit at the Sea Breeze Veranda and having the member endorse us to use the Beach Club.</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><b>Anvaya Cove Beach and Nature Club</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Barangay Mabayo, Morong, Bataan,</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Philippines</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Tel: +63 2 793 3000</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Mobile: +63 917 826 8292</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Email: members@anvayacove.com</span></div>
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Twisted Travelholichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02774181460166133997noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1884270392345490257.post-72884262613754874712016-11-01T19:58:00.001+08:002016-11-01T19:59:07.452+08:00Dreamplay at City of Dreams Manila<div style="text-align: center;">
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Have a blast with your favorite Dreamworks characters</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>March 25, 2016</i>. DreamPlay, located at City of Dreams Manila, is an indoor playground filled with fun, exciting and physically-challenging activities. The play center is an eye-candy dotted with larger-than-life-sized characters from popular Dreamworks movies. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We arrived a little after lunch and there was no line at the tickets so getting in was a breeze. We were given tickets for 2 adults and 2 kids good for 4 hours of play which was included in our room package at the Nobu Hotel.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">First on our list is to sign up for a baking class at Gingy's Kitchen. Now while waiting for our schedule, we went around to try the different activities.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The Dream Theater features short 4D film snippets from some of the famous animation movies from Dreamworks and show runs every 30 minutes. The film isn't really a coherent mini-movie and the seats are not moving, so over-all, I didn't really enjoy it. I guess I was expecting much more than just stitched movie trailers. </span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">How to Fly your Dragon features a workshop where </span></span>you get to design and build your own dragon then launch it at the top and and see it fly across the area.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge-vteiGolLmMLEAGFkgj8mKxlo2QQA8hva4MgB1dX9nYO4d51tbRdw5EFvkMlvK-xfE5eGLYqANsgQzAM9r3l7GN5SKLq4_AZlmE7AYUFGEh0YSW_9g24iceSjqg_3A4piyFQW__PWwp-/s1600/20160325_27+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge-vteiGolLmMLEAGFkgj8mKxlo2QQA8hva4MgB1dX9nYO4d51tbRdw5EFvkMlvK-xfE5eGLYqANsgQzAM9r3l7GN5SKLq4_AZlmE7AYUFGEh0YSW_9g24iceSjqg_3A4piyFQW__PWwp-/s400/20160325_27+copy.jpg" width="300" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">There are two ways to get to the launch area -- take the normal stairs, or climb up the aluminum dragon body all the way to the top. My kids of course, prefer the more challenging way.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLhJdUCnD9BOvmkVcZ3sc1dhfg8wszowbiNgjixg3hEUC3C9VDqykEmfavP7ZXY_g2U58F27PWNcmnQDaMgWfiGrGS1U2T6tXGvcNwmbiM82ljguqQfxhuZy4jhwQpx5FC1dvtCl3HmJHU/s1600/20160325_9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLhJdUCnD9BOvmkVcZ3sc1dhfg8wszowbiNgjixg3hEUC3C9VDqykEmfavP7ZXY_g2U58F27PWNcmnQDaMgWfiGrGS1U2T6tXGvcNwmbiM82ljguqQfxhuZy4jhwQpx5FC1dvtCl3HmJHU/s400/20160325_9.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Shrek's Swamp Stomp takes you to Shrek's home and invites you to stomp around while looking for his missing keys.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdmpXmrXkBuB0E2YWN6ZoWQ2tnwYEndA18XmjggBjzVeJY4wN8fHyRSuwsst5nkseX4Rrkp4wwbro29qrABvsVUkrqOCtikW7yekuv5bW2cFudp-OysBPYFnqfB9iMdaQ6NfCCNtcKss8T/s1600/20160325_24.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdmpXmrXkBuB0E2YWN6ZoWQ2tnwYEndA18XmjggBjzVeJY4wN8fHyRSuwsst5nkseX4Rrkp4wwbro29qrABvsVUkrqOCtikW7yekuv5bW2cFudp-OysBPYFnqfB9iMdaQ6NfCCNtcKss8T/s400/20160325_24.jpg" width="300" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Whatever Floats your Boat is where you design and build your own boat and let it sail in an obstacle-filled river. This activity is actually similar to How to Fly your Dragon.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Dreamstudio is an animator's dream as it lets you create your own animated film featuring Dreamworks characters!</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzEpRUi3I2drhDUPWO83OTM038f4RdXQIeaLLC8GHR4qxbzGjGEEvYlszewCpnvIboGifaE2CoxYtgPkkQ1T-26hiseVQanPw4tPYLdeLc6AjMLQqR1uL1sEUErVkbLjspevknuvhjnJIg/s1600/20160325_10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzEpRUi3I2drhDUPWO83OTM038f4RdXQIeaLLC8GHR4qxbzGjGEEvYlszewCpnvIboGifaE2CoxYtgPkkQ1T-26hiseVQanPw4tPYLdeLc6AjMLQqR1uL1sEUErVkbLjspevknuvhjnJIg/s400/20160325_10.jpg" width="300" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Fast as Lightning Kung Fu Fighting features an Xbox 360 game where you have to follow the kung fu moves being taught by the Furious 5.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp-RUrO29WoWbofdb1gUX8-TXJ8-G_07LpWxZWQabhvVF99eA4CdW-XijgFZUVHF6M5T6sZdrvI9F0x3_498s868MSBoxzGpb_Ci20pQdBVKPXZ7mo1lQSijBV60MvfjiZuBBNuKL2yQyU/s1600/20160325_42.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp-RUrO29WoWbofdb1gUX8-TXJ8-G_07LpWxZWQabhvVF99eA4CdW-XijgFZUVHF6M5T6sZdrvI9F0x3_498s868MSBoxzGpb_Ci20pQdBVKPXZ7mo1lQSijBV60MvfjiZuBBNuKL2yQyU/s400/20160325_42.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Afro Circus is a two-storey arena where kids can shoot away and play around foam balls. It's mainly for the tiny tots but my big kids had a blast here nonetheless.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx5NNeZ5voVGv70bYOiuqAOVYk8OW8MjtGEiS2-rpeMjYv-7sHMKlc6ofFNDjy-VAz3nl_n6czTcLDrrSbjFRFAVATuQrLOjdmhv5Ak7Xng1-GcgCGnp8oifScqDQLKRmY6likkPHz7n2c/s1600/20160325_4178.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx5NNeZ5voVGv70bYOiuqAOVYk8OW8MjtGEiS2-rpeMjYv-7sHMKlc6ofFNDjy-VAz3nl_n6czTcLDrrSbjFRFAVATuQrLOjdmhv5Ak7Xng1-GcgCGnp8oifScqDQLKRmY6likkPHz7n2c/s400/20160325_4178.jpg" width="300" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Dinotrux is where you navigate a course using remote controlled eggs (or Reptools as they call it)</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4sA8mtG7VsZvjyb5tvXORHqmTNuePrIrTWsqtJvPvSFrSttJ-H2Gjj6foTccdvvajasBYfrxvWTmHmA1AlGsCurzo5jcHg-vkkcfjTGJv-20uskdLMEeURwZApGaVxbC8RN2Re3zzxb6q/s1600/20160325_38.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4sA8mtG7VsZvjyb5tvXORHqmTNuePrIrTWsqtJvPvSFrSttJ-H2Gjj6foTccdvvajasBYfrxvWTmHmA1AlGsCurzo5jcHg-vkkcfjTGJv-20uskdLMEeURwZApGaVxbC8RN2Re3zzxb6q/s400/20160325_38.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQcM6jRKekmzgsiLSxYAj0yVSPNPDNpdfdbFUp_AnisNtSM_VBfvxqwGh9073-qLALYgBOHyhOecN5b578ZHMlKwMCgMDMHk6ukcfIF9y6_jaM6rN2BjQgsh-bM106OCkHE0VCEgwnvC07/s1600/20160325_61.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQcM6jRKekmzgsiLSxYAj0yVSPNPDNpdfdbFUp_AnisNtSM_VBfvxqwGh9073-qLALYgBOHyhOecN5b578ZHMlKwMCgMDMHk6ukcfIF9y6_jaM6rN2BjQgsh-bM106OCkHE0VCEgwnvC07/s400/20160325_61.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Now for the best attractions -- Thread of Enlightenment and Wall of Destiny! Older kids will surely get a kick from the adrenaline rush when they complete the obstacles -- it's like American Ninja Warrior for teens! </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The Wall of Destiny features a number of activities. They have a massive regular climbing wall, another wall with rotating climbing holds, Stairway to Heaven and Leap of Faith. The first one we tried is where the wall has a Yin and Yang circles that rotates as you step/hold on to them. This one's a bit challenging as only my agile daughter was able to complete it while my older son cannot b</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">ring his weight up to the top.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhzcMH_ou8W0f7BrXKSER40197E6ybU7He0TMmS2qXmcEL2-PP79jLMGXp2mu5bVm6dNIfEYmofnRPblQT24hAxqgD7CnQlWTWnC43MhXjVCA2kGlfX-dB0qqCx48KgkHUNq0V1_wUq9m3/s1600/20160325_43.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhzcMH_ou8W0f7BrXKSER40197E6ybU7He0TMmS2qXmcEL2-PP79jLMGXp2mu5bVm6dNIfEYmofnRPblQT24hAxqgD7CnQlWTWnC43MhXjVCA2kGlfX-dB0qqCx48KgkHUNq0V1_wUq9m3/s400/20160325_43.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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<span style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Stairway to Heaven is where you climb a series of escalating poles with the highest one almost as high as the ceiling. When you reach the top, you then jump to the ground (with a harness of course!). It get's really challenging as you climb up because the poles get wobblier as you ascend.</span></span></div>
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<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmRn12ruAPYx8I3PYZvPckhJYfl-ZAosD8XuW6rP_HePXGo0aEVne4XVtO8UITvDqGu4tDefACQlshz0WfYvKnXe9EgQ9dgicVnug5Wn61w2jlG7YNR9aeHDyS-msZmGAOtd4TfLM6GzqJ/s1600/20160325_01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmRn12ruAPYx8I3PYZvPckhJYfl-ZAosD8XuW6rP_HePXGo0aEVne4XVtO8UITvDqGu4tDefACQlshz0WfYvKnXe9EgQ9dgicVnug5Wn61w2jlG7YNR9aeHDyS-msZmGAOtd4TfLM6GzqJ/s400/20160325_01.jpg" width="300" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Stairway to Heaven</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Leap of Faith is an absolute must do! You climb a tall tower and stand on a diving board-looking ledge. Instead of jumping down, you jump horizontally to reach the boxing bag a few meters away in front of you. How cool is that?!? I'm glad to say that both my kids were able to do this and I'm absolutely relieved that only kids can do this activity (saved me from making up excuses for not trying it).</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGtaUK3DlY0rDYqWL50uhaCgkj0oqgLfAYGnhr_ilzpbfvGwQOPaxy3L34uvhs14bK7m73ENLi0R919HqzjjYsqzankvbOfoJqmKZOvHeqYuBEN0SiFsuhl8m8k0aZpr2raudky4BgpwG3/s1600/20160325_45.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGtaUK3DlY0rDYqWL50uhaCgkj0oqgLfAYGnhr_ilzpbfvGwQOPaxy3L34uvhs14bK7m73ENLi0R919HqzjjYsqzankvbOfoJqmKZOvHeqYuBEN0SiFsuhl8m8k0aZpr2raudky4BgpwG3/s1600/20160325_45.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><br /></a><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-MaQTThL94DhJtzTqzmdG4ozvdXaolaVuOUDUoisIizYjdZWrwj2P978N6CgJRZznDN_xpBzvXBPF56OP1kn3GKi6tUNQ3AAL9nkcG61XsHYmiYSNg0V3apybzHZJGqvod_Ulxgf5I9Yt/s1600/20160325_8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-MaQTThL94DhJtzTqzmdG4ozvdXaolaVuOUDUoisIizYjdZWrwj2P978N6CgJRZznDN_xpBzvXBPF56OP1kn3GKi6tUNQ3AAL9nkcG61XsHYmiYSNg0V3apybzHZJGqvod_Ulxgf5I9Yt/s400/20160325_8.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Climb to the top</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGtaUK3DlY0rDYqWL50uhaCgkj0oqgLfAYGnhr_ilzpbfvGwQOPaxy3L34uvhs14bK7m73ENLi0R919HqzjjYsqzankvbOfoJqmKZOvHeqYuBEN0SiFsuhl8m8k0aZpr2raudky4BgpwG3/s1600/20160325_45.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGtaUK3DlY0rDYqWL50uhaCgkj0oqgLfAYGnhr_ilzpbfvGwQOPaxy3L34uvhs14bK7m73ENLi0R919HqzjjYsqzankvbOfoJqmKZOvHeqYuBEN0SiFsuhl8m8k0aZpr2raudky4BgpwG3/s400/20160325_45.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Jump!</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJjVafR2eeIVhrE5sMtN4vYd83KU0JEPuJFdh6z2-ycWTAnprLFJeKQ5FwvojoKcW78ip6sLNAuyZAvSChi2-dByOn9zpxxvL0KLvdWVnA4ftBivOuiz9SuwzvVYHtz21e4MXNsgqAGt7N/s1600/20160325_37.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJjVafR2eeIVhrE5sMtN4vYd83KU0JEPuJFdh6z2-ycWTAnprLFJeKQ5FwvojoKcW78ip6sLNAuyZAvSChi2-dByOn9zpxxvL0KLvdWVnA4ftBivOuiz9SuwzvVYHtz21e4MXNsgqAGt7N/s400/20160325_37.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Then hold onto dear life!</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: justify;">Another favorite is the Thread of Enlightenment (again, as an adult, I'm not allowed to participate in this activity). It's an elaborate obstacle course set two stories above ground! It's a test of balance and strength and this one really reminds me of the American Ninja Warrior show. Kids have to be at least 140cm tall to try this activity.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0mYhYzwXC8enF44hWbCT1aSVhn6L5jeWoO3779XMV__QC_aNVegFT24U1hnx4HGogCw2_gWAYm12OMU-dg7ieomsqwRfO95t21MMD6YULOcutwWtnJnSrh_66k76HAH3zCtNLYFTGLD2N/s1600/20160325_51.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0mYhYzwXC8enF44hWbCT1aSVhn6L5jeWoO3779XMV__QC_aNVegFT24U1hnx4HGogCw2_gWAYm12OMU-dg7ieomsqwRfO95t21MMD6YULOcutwWtnJnSrh_66k76HAH3zCtNLYFTGLD2N/s400/20160325_51.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Swinging Pole Bridge</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDE23moG-OFiEVdAWnNiyzAGBDckcYI64V81-Ogt0LGXTv2VgdKh-bTPiTb7j2yoBuEYgWYk4F8x0Senqqwzs7bx8xDDZJrelMHd330gdFN15sG49KKv1X2VxGga7OPFS5SWsxzF2WwazI/s1600/20160325_20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDE23moG-OFiEVdAWnNiyzAGBDckcYI64V81-Ogt0LGXTv2VgdKh-bTPiTb7j2yoBuEYgWYk4F8x0Senqqwzs7bx8xDDZJrelMHd330gdFN15sG49KKv1X2VxGga7OPFS5SWsxzF2WwazI/s400/20160325_20.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Horizontal Web</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Unfortunately, my son was not able to complete the course. The obstacles were just insanely difficult. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">After trying out almost all the activities, we went back to Gingy's Kitchen for the baking class. It's basically just a decorate-your-cookie activity but the full-on costumes plus the little side show makes this activity more interesting and fun. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCNVhvGM3awb0h__yjluxrIIeMuT91AA1Y3P50y5spJzLmrbA8Eg6qcYaPMCaisMSMfYOCW5q5nk_YPlQoRxiPO69bXvxLRs9GidHoM49YkEzEGB9In2Wy-5sRYIO_lIedq7gyIF9M3PXu/s1600/20160325_FullSizeRender+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCNVhvGM3awb0h__yjluxrIIeMuT91AA1Y3P50y5spJzLmrbA8Eg6qcYaPMCaisMSMfYOCW5q5nk_YPlQoRxiPO69bXvxLRs9GidHoM49YkEzEGB9In2Wy-5sRYIO_lIedq7gyIF9M3PXu/s400/20160325_FullSizeRender+4.jpg" width="300" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">There are more or less twenty activities to try, and though it might seem like a lot, a four-hour stay is enough to try and enjoy all the activities.</span></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Helpful things to remember:</span></span><br />
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<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Wear comfortable clothing and rubber shoes (slippers are not allowed) as there are a lot of physical activities</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Socks are required for the ball pit in Shrek Swamp </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Sign up immediately to secure a schedule at Gingy's Kitchen </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">They have a mini-game where you collect badges by scanning your DreamPlay bracelet as you complete the activities in the different areas. You get a freebie (pin or sticker) depending on your achievement status.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Once your time lapses, you can still enjoy the attractions and you'll be billed at the exit. So keep track of the time if you don't want to pay extra :)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Operating Hours: Monday-Thursday 11AM to 8PM, Friday-Sunday and Holidays 10AM to 8PM</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">DreamPlay</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">City of Dreams Manila</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Asean Ave. cor. Roxas Blvd.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Entertainment City, Paranaque</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Tel: +63 2 808 09 09</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Email: dreamplay@cod-manila.com</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Website: http://www.cityofdreams.com.ph/entertainment/dreamplay</span><br />
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Twisted Travelholichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02774181460166133997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1884270392345490257.post-45953812198394410992016-07-24T11:59:00.003+08:002017-02-07T22:19:50.818+08:00Malapascua, Cebu<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Kandaya Resort in Daanbantayan</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>Jun 30 - Jul 2, 2016</i>. It's that time of the year again when I turn a year older and we celebrate by packing our bags and going off to another adventure. This time, we decided to endure an hour's worth of flight and four hours of land travel to visit the much-talked about Malapascua Island in the northern tip of Cebu. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">From Mactan Airport, we took a cab to the North Bus Terminal and rode a V-Hire (it's like the UV Express here in Manila) going to the town of Daanbantayan. It's cheap and faster than taking the bus, but definitely not comfortable. They cram passengers like sardines (especially in the last two rows) it's bordering illegal. I swear people there have to no concept of overloading.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Instead of staying at a resort in Malapascua Island, we decided to stay in Kandaya Resort, located just a few minutes away from Maya Port. Then from Maya Port, we'll just take a 30-minute boat ride to Malapascua.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Lucky for us, Kandaya Resort is absolutely heavenly! Upon arriving, we immediately felt relaxed and we got excited to explore the place. All the stress from the long travel just melted away!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I just love how they designed the place. As you enter the lobby, you'll see in the horizon their gorgeous infinity pool, which meets the tranquil ocean, which then meets the blue sky. Absolutely breathtaking. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN8J-JTczPS3N9pof5OLJNDkL4OYZYBBMIbKs7k-FLYXUbd0kVDB2OTmUv2nLvIBQlYx4VT_7dp8QeRrhnnnRbUyF3p5k58GahM19JzW0VfTZBKqr36K7efTiS0r2YYZ1areFBbP4suhos/s1600/20160630_IMG_5544.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN8J-JTczPS3N9pof5OLJNDkL4OYZYBBMIbKs7k-FLYXUbd0kVDB2OTmUv2nLvIBQlYx4VT_7dp8QeRrhnnnRbUyF3p5k58GahM19JzW0VfTZBKqr36K7efTiS0r2YYZ1areFBbP4suhos/s400/20160630_IMG_5544.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">And when you step out of your room, it opens up to a garden and you'll be greeted with colorful Koi fish.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKGz5PmFSde5kKE4ZalKkbXsNJBs8jZGfwiNRK_J7MfaKxJ2zLtUANsspLQFxXFWXEzbdDUr62C3OR3x8U9axCR-H_6xjT6ebjwpdBdG612K3B7nTmsSYub1dpQsr2N-nXFusglqPlFTWZ/s1600/20160630_IMG_5550.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKGz5PmFSde5kKE4ZalKkbXsNJBs8jZGfwiNRK_J7MfaKxJ2zLtUANsspLQFxXFWXEzbdDUr62C3OR3x8U9axCR-H_6xjT6ebjwpdBdG612K3B7nTmsSYub1dpQsr2N-nXFusglqPlFTWZ/s400/20160630_IMG_5550.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The resort has all sorts of activities and amenities prepared for their guests so there's always something to do. Our first stop of course is the restaurant! </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">First thing we notice is the giant fish traps decorating the place. This, plus the magnificent view of the ocean and the breezy salty air filling the room as we enjoy our lunch. </span></div>
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<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDb_H-N4i5RrpghEzDcu5ziIFrHFknA1_ukSryUZRJZ06Kb5T02GCnytuMhffwurmMV1LCTZ3LXgYjH-R1Czusnn_-UTGhZ1qMeQUFtnQ_FNYUSDSmHRGnvfM7EHl4A1w20PZZZztRH2I2/s1600/20160630_IMG_5816.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDb_H-N4i5RrpghEzDcu5ziIFrHFknA1_ukSryUZRJZ06Kb5T02GCnytuMhffwurmMV1LCTZ3LXgYjH-R1Czusnn_-UTGhZ1qMeQUFtnQ_FNYUSDSmHRGnvfM7EHl4A1w20PZZZztRH2I2/s400/20160630_IMG_5816.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Breakfast served at Kusina Restaurant</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">There are only a limited number of rooms/villas at the resort and the privacy is just divine. The place is absolutely peaceful and I enjoy lounging by the pool without noisy kids running around or rowdy groups chattering. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjbadBN9C23-RtK0BAP4ortLGNSv2DJIGbrJ9-9x1sAROiHQ0L8ciamArtqdquI36cqFEjKS_12Xdplf9e1x583Z9-Big2ILfHXjtOcODCDUH6M3qO3aqbReanulSS9nssTi7NnCQJoFx_/s1600/20160630_88.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjbadBN9C23-RtK0BAP4ortLGNSv2DJIGbrJ9-9x1sAROiHQ0L8ciamArtqdquI36cqFEjKS_12Xdplf9e1x583Z9-Big2ILfHXjtOcODCDUH6M3qO3aqbReanulSS9nssTi7NnCQJoFx_/s400/20160630_88.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivar_3O_oWVfca7t7RYUfGvtZs24w25bfJYkRUCf3vUlypCrvBuVZJjJ8BfIYFddV04k5KT0Btwphw8cuvfXLJDotcd62kz0Dtvw_EZX7e8ajWxxnSB3zdGD2CCtliOomJ-gSqTNG0BbZ4/s1600/20160702_IMG_5853.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivar_3O_oWVfca7t7RYUfGvtZs24w25bfJYkRUCf3vUlypCrvBuVZJjJ8BfIYFddV04k5KT0Btwphw8cuvfXLJDotcd62kz0Dtvw_EZX7e8ajWxxnSB3zdGD2CCtliOomJ-gSqTNG0BbZ4/s400/20160702_IMG_5853.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Hammocks abound all over the resort</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Aside from lounging by the pool or soaking up the sun by the beach, there are plenty of activities offered by the resort. They have a tennis court, a basketball court, an MMA gym -- and the best part is, guests can use them for free. Other activities being offered are horseback riding, biking, stand-up paddle boating and kayaking (also for free except for horseback riding).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The next day, after a hearty breakfast, we headed to Maya Port. We decided to hire a private boat for the day. They'll take us to Malapascua, then take us snorkeling to three different spots, then take us back to Maya Port at the end of the day.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">We have the boat all to ourselves</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Malapascua</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Crystal clear water</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Malapascua is famous for it's resident Thresher sharks, which you can see when you go diving. But since none of us dives, we opted for the more kid-friendly snorkeling tour of the island. First stop is Coral Garden. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">As the name suggests, the area is one huge garden of corals of all variety, shapes and sizes. It was a little disappointing though, because we didn't see a lot of fish.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Next stop is Guimbitayan, where a shipwreck lies beneath. This Japanese vessel was bombed during World War II and what was left of the once massive ship, is now home to some fish and breeding ground for more corals.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGXI3n5Uu8m9iFP46TPWFB9jFpFOssIWI43aYz6j7Fls2dpUZqs-4Jl_te42FaOzY9zPtE5ImuC9SRL-5D64er6SHdjcgDtN6f0NcbqtjBbNC19aeX36ZH7-QgF35G6lGzxDlCNL1ydIdW/s1600/20160701_G0290544.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="220" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGXI3n5Uu8m9iFP46TPWFB9jFpFOssIWI43aYz6j7Fls2dpUZqs-4Jl_te42FaOzY9zPtE5ImuC9SRL-5D64er6SHdjcgDtN6f0NcbqtjBbNC19aeX36ZH7-QgF35G6lGzxDlCNL1ydIdW/s400/20160701_G0290544.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Our last stop is Dakit Dakit Island. Our boatmen started jumping in the water too, as they try to catch sea urchins for dinner. More corals can be seen from here, though not as impressive or massive as the ones in Coral Garden.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Our trip, though short, was truly eventful. Nothing beats spending your special day collecting memories with the family.</span></div>
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<b style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Kandaya Resort</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Agujo, Daanbantayan</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Cebu, Philippines</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Telephone: +63 32 260 6006</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Mobile: +63 999 8886691</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Email: reservations@kandayaresort.com</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Web: http://www.kandayaresort.com</span></div>
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Twisted Travelholichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02774181460166133997noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1884270392345490257.post-8440361186840965492015-08-30T00:41:00.002+08:002015-09-04T07:10:14.712+08:00Moevenpick Hotel Cebu Mactan<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhekQNorDe-kT0az5vGNTnb5CJP5ljMyGpITbVHP1lH7u2IGR256fDyAj-C-cT1EJQOKK_DSlKEw5N5q8DgtmVpXsXZCX4tFzKSZSWtklJIhpGqUbURWWKTzB6cBCoSp_VLv5j0d_txOn9D/s1600/20150704_IMG_2688.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhekQNorDe-kT0az5vGNTnb5CJP5ljMyGpITbVHP1lH7u2IGR256fDyAj-C-cT1EJQOKK_DSlKEw5N5q8DgtmVpXsXZCX4tFzKSZSWtklJIhpGqUbURWWKTzB6cBCoSp_VLv5j0d_txOn9D/s400/20150704_IMG_2688.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Fifty shades of blue</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>July 4-5, 2015</i>. Like we always do every time I turn a year older, we pack our bags and head somewhere where we can relax and celebrate. This year, we decided to stay in Moevenpick Hotel in Mactan Cebu. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The hotel has an upbeat and modern feel to it, just perfect to make me feel young again. Hahaha. The resort is smaller compared to it's massive neighbor -- the Shangri-la Resort Mactan. Moevenpick only has one pool and a small shoreline. Just enough though, for an overnight relaxing vacation.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Check-in was a breeze. We paid for a room upgrade to get a good view and it was worth it. I did feel a little disappointed on the size of the room. The one-bedroom suite feels crammed -- it's like they squeezed a bedroom, a bathroom and a living room in one tiny space. The view though is amazing. Plus I love the contemporary furniture and the fancy amenities that came with the room. </span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Plush welcome gift set</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">View from our room</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The sky was grey and there was a light drizzle. But of course, this didn't stop us, especially the kids, from having fun at the pool and the beach. We were even able to catch a few rays of the sun while chilling in the loungers.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Late afternoon, we headed straight to Ibiza Beach Club. Great place to enjoy cocktails while admiring the sunset. </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">They have comfy couches, a jacuzzi and over-the-water cargo nets where you can enjoy your drinks. </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">And yeah, they serve non-alcoholic drinks so kids are welcome as well. </span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Happy hours are from 4pm to 6pm</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Stunning view of the ocean</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Ibiza Beach Club at night</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Oh, when we got back to our room, I was greeted with a surprise from Moevenpick :) </span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Birthday cupcakes from Moevenpick</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><b>Movenpick Hotel Mactan Island Cebu</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Punta Engano, Mactan</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Cebu, Philippines</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Tel: +63 32 492 7777</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Email: hotel.cebu@moevenpick.com</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Website: </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">http://www.moevenpick-hotels.com/en/asia/philippines/cebu/hotel-mactan-island-cebu/overview/</span><br />
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<a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/14395881/?claim=96kzraajaew">Follow my blog with Bloglovin</a>Twisted Travelholichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02774181460166133997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1884270392345490257.post-59038783996789838892015-07-26T23:55:00.002+08:002015-07-29T22:43:45.194+08:00Pampanga Adventure Weekend<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>June 12-13, 2015</i>. We took advantage of the long weekend to visit Clark Freeport Zone in Angeles, Pampanga. What used to be a haven for PX stores is now gaining popularity for its family-friendly adventure parks. Just perfect for a weekend getaway.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Here are the list of activities adults and kids alike will surely enjoy:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>1. Play at Sandbox</b></span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Outdoor adventure park</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Sandbox is located in Porac, Pampanga, just a quick drive if you're coming from Clark. It's an outdoor adventure park that features a zipline, a giant swing, a rope course, a wall climbing/rappelling tower, ATV rides and a whole lot more activities.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">You have an option to get a package or just pick individual activities. Entrance fee is required for everyone entering the property. Since we only want to try three activities, we decided to just pay for the entrance and each individual activity. This way, it comes out cheaper.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Individual tickets for each activity.</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">First on our list was the Giant Swing. It looks easy from the ground but once you're strapped and you feel them pulling you 10 meters above the ground -- you'll feel the butterflies in your stomach flutter like crazy. Then wait until they slingshot you into the air and you'll feel all your insides start to curdle. My eyes were closed for most of the ride and I was definitely screaming the whole time (which was a little embarrassing as everyone can literally hear me). My son on the other hand was enjoying the whole time and actually wanted to ride again.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Literally -- a giant swing.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Up, up in the air.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">My eyes were open -- at some point.</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Next was the Avatar One. This is actually just my second time to try a zipline. The course was not that high but the dips and turns definitely added zest to the ride. To my surprise and relief, this ride is more enjoyable than scary.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsQi_GjfZhqpoh2GchCepebl2mqNsaj_reLL7wh2uCR8kQav5sgaXrrNt4uq6ks2HkFxeNljig-u_lLk_4-jbYC0-ZIeEnVrUmiovrv2ihrtB-8MplMd41oKy_MaOVvNl_Y68QxhqXHkmC/s1600/20150612_G0016234.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="220" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsQi_GjfZhqpoh2GchCepebl2mqNsaj_reLL7wh2uCR8kQav5sgaXrrNt4uq6ks2HkFxeNljig-u_lLk_4-jbYC0-ZIeEnVrUmiovrv2ihrtB-8MplMd41oKy_MaOVvNl_Y68QxhqXHkmC/s400/20150612_G0016234.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Preparing for the ride.</span></td></tr>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: justify;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-Wt-r1EDDe6AqJLJUZTpl_yJIoRPelRS4LY2LM9QkWmtbGcL8AUQK0pFvkqCPNtHiZrsN1-_ziy-aapojOYlfFlBkC5sa6eXCsIlzJ-xijk3KBhBQR9K68wnw-z8fvpVMyFVCTO70CFNY/s1600/20150612_MG_7894.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-Wt-r1EDDe6AqJLJUZTpl_yJIoRPelRS4LY2LM9QkWmtbGcL8AUQK0pFvkqCPNtHiZrsN1-_ziy-aapojOYlfFlBkC5sa6eXCsIlzJ-xijk3KBhBQR9K68wnw-z8fvpVMyFVCTO70CFNY/s400/20150612_MG_7894.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">One of the many dips in the roller coaster zipline.</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">By the time we got to the Aerial Walk, the line was unbearably long and the temperature's becoming uncomfortably hot. We just decided to skip it and head to the hotel to check in.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUPZuYlCJVYdtD2T8Uo1CEDpkBq5JAZqutZ83TuXrIEB4Y0VwhVsFref5PJYgN33T46pdVy2VRCJ1nv4vTGCVC0VdcVVmPD1YrsvLDYsTfFyCCBxxdNfz5FKtsBINl2YIOKR-djnebs_MN/s1600/20150612_IMG_2620.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUPZuYlCJVYdtD2T8Uo1CEDpkBq5JAZqutZ83TuXrIEB4Y0VwhVsFref5PJYgN33T46pdVy2VRCJ1nv4vTGCVC0VdcVVmPD1YrsvLDYsTfFyCCBxxdNfz5FKtsBINl2YIOKR-djnebs_MN/s400/20150612_IMG_2620.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Aerial Walk obstacle course.</span></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMe8wHe_d4PbV5LSIFT_XiOcMThrYgrsFiPpHv9hSX9pAaFKXQgwgQwUHYJRM_hvgWRXXXkxncGp5z75b30opF4Yc3Jue5wHgaVeeXk4jH5JcSXXcYuBohU29IY5lMyKtDXZ5XfpSooOgH/s1600/20150612_MG_7869.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMe8wHe_d4PbV5LSIFT_XiOcMThrYgrsFiPpHv9hSX9pAaFKXQgwgQwUHYJRM_hvgWRXXXkxncGp5z75b30opF4Yc3Jue5wHgaVeeXk4jH5JcSXXcYuBohU29IY5lMyKtDXZ5XfpSooOgH/s400/20150612_MG_7869.jpg" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The Tower of Terror for rappelling, wall climbing and free fall drop.</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Just a few notes to help you enjoy your day in Sandbox:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1. </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">They open as early as 9:00am so beat the crowd and be there early! They impose an admission cut-off for each activity, for more information visit this </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/843838658959722/photos/a.843872595622995.1073741829.843838658959722/846874955322759/?type=1&theater" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;" target="_blank">link</a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">. During our visit, the Aerial walk tickets were already sold out by lunch time.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">2. Go to the Aerial Walk first as it takes a while to complete. It's an obstacle course and you'll be depending heavily on people in front of you to finish it sooner rather than later. The course should take approximately 30mins to complete.</span></div>
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3. <span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It is an outdoor park, so lather on sunblock, put on a cap, lace up your rubber shoes and wear comfortable clothes.</span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwlPaFXesMqQLtr10e_1rl_XtRr96KXg32TxFkmJXWLngXheoYJCZXLitHeCDcHDEvDdP9ps9ySKKhyv6hww-LZFvVEnRhFcY8EK-QrJXA2V9fGzoIHvrYCw9dN9RwrtTOnFPw-CKvDHvM/s1600/20150612_MG_7913.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwlPaFXesMqQLtr10e_1rl_XtRr96KXg32TxFkmJXWLngXheoYJCZXLitHeCDcHDEvDdP9ps9ySKKhyv6hww-LZFvVEnRhFcY8EK-QrJXA2V9fGzoIHvrYCw9dN9RwrtTOnFPw-CKvDHvM/s400/20150612_MG_7913.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Fun in Sandbox</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>2. Plunge in Fontana Water Park</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This is just the kids' second time in a water park. It's relatively small with only four major slides (with one of them not operational during our visit), a wave pool, a lazy river and a couple of play area for kids.</span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUtG2Pi9bYwMtBHIBvuhpbg8aOr8NpDkM9ci3KiLrydI_ER-smg_1dZgHlx9B4Y2cQSinNUm2ks0h51O7CZ-DWabdubIpTQltjd7sdrgDPpBdbAzUAqZ5QyBHptuaLRaDRn-NsOghh5i45/s1600/20150612_G0046312.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="220" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUtG2Pi9bYwMtBHIBvuhpbg8aOr8NpDkM9ci3KiLrydI_ER-smg_1dZgHlx9B4Y2cQSinNUm2ks0h51O7CZ-DWabdubIpTQltjd7sdrgDPpBdbAzUAqZ5QyBHptuaLRaDRn-NsOghh5i45/s400/20150612_G0046312.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Welcome to Fontana Water Park</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It's good enough though for an afternoon of splashing, dipping, jumping and lounging.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My son's top favorite is the wave pool. He made it his mission to reach the deepest part and touch the floaty. I, on the other hand, had a rough time, swallowed liters of pool water (gross, I know) and was mostly gasping for breath while miserably failing from syncing my jumps with the waves.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My daughter loved the bigger slides. They have the usual ones where you can use a floaty or slide directly.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Hubby and I tried the Big Horn twice. You use a floaty for two and you slip in a short slide that takes you on big side to side swings before you plunge in the pool below. It's actually a fun ride but kids are not allowed on it.</span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4LR4iCYHeqx9-BuOK4qZRDeMoSOXRvgM4cNmPFceTQ-CYDvmrQvWtgbCw5zNX5OTjoRWCNg7Hsa8ISnU1GmQIo-HVURmNF0CRLXYtob-85YO-89pxS8h44AlZjguGtMy8VJb1KjRyUOfl/s1600/20150612_G0136445.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="220" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4LR4iCYHeqx9-BuOK4qZRDeMoSOXRvgM4cNmPFceTQ-CYDvmrQvWtgbCw5zNX5OTjoRWCNg7Hsa8ISnU1GmQIo-HVURmNF0CRLXYtob-85YO-89pxS8h44AlZjguGtMy8VJb1KjRyUOfl/s400/20150612_G0136445.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Wave pool</span></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6RlOqNXbZ1O7v_R-ySQ8Vng4JVGSwy-BYV3JbMrjosnezXW_brWHeqD3Sglp18z9IcpQ9lmS3g-kKr141EZiwK8EVjB8YMtU5co2swD8-iOf3KoA3bqu1B4vYSPwiq_pok4DhE1xYInif/s1600/20150612_G0156628.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="220" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6RlOqNXbZ1O7v_R-ySQ8Vng4JVGSwy-BYV3JbMrjosnezXW_brWHeqD3Sglp18z9IcpQ9lmS3g-kKr141EZiwK8EVjB8YMtU5co2swD8-iOf3KoA3bqu1B4vYSPwiq_pok4DhE1xYInif/s400/20150612_G0156628.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">View from the lazy river</span></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsMK_Prsdd56Y-3f8ujJBz2FmSQk5aM43p0MCjm4Qo3qbsnfbsT6yn_9ylSuwKyItefmxOkivh5pZt9rULeoDdokrBf0bOcyzqvi0S7I-_LrE1gj0FVnP3atVWzjCNwmKh3bC5NK3SmM1E/s1600/20150612_G0156607.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="220" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsMK_Prsdd56Y-3f8ujJBz2FmSQk5aM43p0MCjm4Qo3qbsnfbsT6yn_9ylSuwKyItefmxOkivh5pZt9rULeoDdokrBf0bOcyzqvi0S7I-_LrE1gj0FVnP3atVWzjCNwmKh3bC5NK3SmM1E/s400/20150612_G0156607.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Chilling in the Lazy River</span></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEWajAzu2MfBLqh8MWRXU8yAFtavAlp4dsUDXMdPrDEu2V2Ba3SxxuUDeGifRGeuxbGzxkET8k0lpRFOdEWPN1IN0g4r3IDIYAE9cCuThvYuElhv53DYawVMnhvkAU65GJX_U80wadgqrV/s1600/20150612_G0166696.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="220" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEWajAzu2MfBLqh8MWRXU8yAFtavAlp4dsUDXMdPrDEu2V2Ba3SxxuUDeGifRGeuxbGzxkET8k0lpRFOdEWPN1IN0g4r3IDIYAE9cCuThvYuElhv53DYawVMnhvkAU65GJX_U80wadgqrV/s400/20150612_G0166696.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Big splash at the kiddie area</span></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLNTl7gkvtv5NSXGPH6MVNL2WCe3TQpbNWVkuSn-lBQcVsmhkwF9EBvByFzrNYuwnQmpbeFRv1YHxTEOR05HQUwom0aODxfUc02TEShYmbD0h32ccQ63S5jL3poEZWnwXCtRHKs2UfGFbS/s1600/20150612_G0206749.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="220" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLNTl7gkvtv5NSXGPH6MVNL2WCe3TQpbNWVkuSn-lBQcVsmhkwF9EBvByFzrNYuwnQmpbeFRv1YHxTEOR05HQUwom0aODxfUc02TEShYmbD0h32ccQ63S5jL3poEZWnwXCtRHKs2UfGFbS/s400/20150612_G0206749.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Enjoying the giant slides</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">You cannot bring food or drinks inside. The entrance fee includes a Php50 voucher which you can use to purchase food or drink inside the park.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">They have free tables where you can put your stuff but you leave them at your own risk. They have cabanas for rent but they're not locked nor secured. You may opt to rent a locker for your valuables instead.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>3. Try wakeboarding</b></span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht0PFzxUHlaF0KAUpSW0irsmvl1Pr83aV__A19r7ySCcSKPgLHpDuonrsxoxl6XS1D-LN5jdZLIlQWsb_4alEBJ5sVK2uSiQ6zrYCiGjSrFlfgG9aPjCs_KseFICi3ciuC0yhXNM45B683/s1600/20150613_IMG_2637.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht0PFzxUHlaF0KAUpSW0irsmvl1Pr83aV__A19r7ySCcSKPgLHpDuonrsxoxl6XS1D-LN5jdZLIlQWsb_4alEBJ5sVK2uSiQ6zrYCiGjSrFlfgG9aPjCs_KseFICi3ciuC0yhXNM45B683/s400/20150613_IMG_2637.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Deca Wakeboard Park</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This was a first for the kids and they loved it! It wasn't as easy as surfing because the boards were just too big for them to maneuver easily. They managed to (almost) reach the other end of the lake in the whole hour that we spent there and they were begging to come back for more.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">For a fixed fee, we get to use a wakeboard and life vest for an hour and get lessons as well. Don't expect too much from the lessons though. It's just a one minute run-down of what you should do. Not much tips or whatever. It was basically, go and figure it out on your own. </span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilpIB11mBYaOqsQkcgp6pN90Fc2VqeqsCMZ6_2RDjRzEsWwMxvVSkdN0VHUPwH0dhg1PMHEJnIeDZdfG5KLdgW-k6L0rteX85gfyuNGHWA3Ax6uJ3PHCH8QTNusniZ5HmaUPcMykRY6nT0/s1600/20150613_IMG_2625.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilpIB11mBYaOqsQkcgp6pN90Fc2VqeqsCMZ6_2RDjRzEsWwMxvVSkdN0VHUPwH0dhg1PMHEJnIeDZdfG5KLdgW-k6L0rteX85gfyuNGHWA3Ax6uJ3PHCH8QTNusniZ5HmaUPcMykRY6nT0/s400/20150613_IMG_2625.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">All set to try a new sport</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Deca Wakeboard Park is just a short drive away from Clark. They have two lakes /courses available -- one for beginners and one for trained riders. On a really busy day, the park gets really packed and the waiting time gets insanely long. It's best to schedule your trip on a weekday and come really early. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>4. Paintball battle</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Right beside Holiday Inn Clark is a paintball arena. You need to call in advance to schedule and you may ask the front desk for assistance. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Fee is Php500 for each participant and you'll be suited up for war and given 80 colored bullets. You may purchase more bullets if necessary. The length of the game depends on how trigger happy the participants are. Just a warning, you'll be given a helmet and body pads but note that it hurts (like hell) when you get hit. I was hit in the finger and it was swollen and bruised for days. I never imagined I was going to get a real battle scar from playing.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Surprisingly, we were able to play two rounds with a few bullets to spare for a target practice at the end. This despite the kids being trigger-happy players. My daughter was really good with her aim (she managed to hit me several times). Meanwhile, it took me the entire game to figure out how to aim on my targets. It's a little nerve wracking when you see the bullets fly and literally hear them whizzing in the air. I need to aim carefully for their body pads or I can seriously hurt the kids.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The war zone</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Ready for war</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>5. Chill in the hotel pool</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">After a long and tiring day, lazing around in the pool while sipping a cold drink just sounds heavenly.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1F8tiTMDuKco9R5yt1jCF1lYfEcoStGOXEBQETNuxJ4jbxlPuFf7Vwga486YZ5tEBpa_eW5DhMg_uLodO_8Ersa1EbN427SJk3-uXWFAf6fNGvOW_yrYmKzKkV3YHWIaYy3NtcAUg9CrG/s1600/2015-06-12+17.19.56-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1F8tiTMDuKco9R5yt1jCF1lYfEcoStGOXEBQETNuxJ4jbxlPuFf7Vwga486YZ5tEBpa_eW5DhMg_uLodO_8Ersa1EbN427SJk3-uXWFAf6fNGvOW_yrYmKzKkV3YHWIaYy3NtcAUg9CrG/s400/2015-06-12+17.19.56-1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><b>Sandbox</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Alviera, Porac, Pampanga</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Website: http://www.alviera.ph/sandbox</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Mobile: +63936 988 6023</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><b>Fontana Water Park</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">CM Recto Highway,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Clark Freeport Zone, Pampanga</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Website: http://fontana.com.ph</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Tel: +63 45 599 5000</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Mobile: +63917 553 7598</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><b>Deca Wakeboard Park Clark</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Margot, Angeles City, Pampanga</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Website: http://www.decawakeboardpark.com/index.html</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Mobile: +63905 330 1013 / +63918 459 8488</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Email: decawakeparks@outlook.com</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><b>Global Gutz Clark</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Mimosa Leisure Estate</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Clark Freeport Zone, Pampanga</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Mobile: +63916 488 7771</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><b>Holiday Inn Clark</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Mimosa Leisure Estate</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Clark Freeport Zone, Pampanga</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Website: </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">http://www.ihg.com/holidayinn/hotels/us/en/clark/clfrp/hoteldetail</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Tel: +632 845 1888</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Email: hircf@comclark.com</span></div>
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Twisted Travelholichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02774181460166133997noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1884270392345490257.post-49217475661582853662015-05-17T11:15:00.002+08:002015-05-23T15:17:34.219+08:00Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan<div style="text-align: justify;">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrCavMgViQjItUld4Rrp1Yrmxyr7tynhIwRgCFdFxnhOe-UUFG2nfwYF-Z2HsG1CXa64NhoAqrMLzZW2Xjplcmth-E31vWMj1X345tjFtfBLvrieMOyZfE6ttSY7QNraUhd0a7JbAmY7B_/s1600/20150131_MG_6076.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrCavMgViQjItUld4Rrp1Yrmxyr7tynhIwRgCFdFxnhOe-UUFG2nfwYF-Z2HsG1CXa64NhoAqrMLzZW2Xjplcmth-E31vWMj1X345tjFtfBLvrieMOyZfE6ttSY7QNraUhd0a7JbAmY7B_/s1600/20150131_MG_6076.jpg" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Welcome to Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>Jan 31 2015.</i> The Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan is located at the Tempozan Harbor Village and is one of the biggest public aquariums in the world. It's just a quick 15-minute ferry ride from Universal City Port via the Captain Line. The aquarium is very popular to two kinds of visitors: kids who are too young and too small for the rides in Universal Studios Japan (USJ) and the veterans who are too "senior" for the attractions in USJ. </span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Joint ticket for the Ferry and Aquarium</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We availed of the joint Kaiyukan and Captain Line (ferry boat) ticket from our hotel concierge. The ferry runs every 30 minutes and the terminal is a short 10-minute walk from our hotel in Universal CityWalk. Good thing the snow wasn't that strong that morning so it was a pleasant walk.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Universal City Port</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Like all transportations in Japan, the ferry was on time and we were well on our way to the Kaiyukan. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Upon entry, you'll ride the escalator all the way up to the top and from there, you'll need to work your way down the Aquarium. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEije1w9-cwIOSB-N7cSoixz3OTIzaerGtF9CalBN2UMR8aC4trmPp-pYBWhBKy_rsQbZcf88EHJVMOZ2YDNJ8LQwxLjGL90GGbPu82AKwckW17FmT1TaLgU_3KBROgdqeXbYp95itTO_qId/s1600/20150131-G0533447.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="220" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEije1w9-cwIOSB-N7cSoixz3OTIzaerGtF9CalBN2UMR8aC4trmPp-pYBWhBKy_rsQbZcf88EHJVMOZ2YDNJ8LQwxLjGL90GGbPu82AKwckW17FmT1TaLgU_3KBROgdqeXbYp95itTO_qId/s1600/20150131-G0533447.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">On our way to to top</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">There are plenty of animals to see at the Aquarium -- from otters, to sea lions, to whale sharks, to manta rays to penguins. The kids had a fun time clicking away pictures of all the cute, creepy, massive and everything in between animals they see.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Adorable baby Rocker Penguin</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Colorful ocean</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Hello there Mr. Turtle</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The last attraction is our favorite -- the touch pool! They have baby sharks and sting rays on a shallow pool and if you're up for it, you can dip your hand and touch them.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Touching the baby shark</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Next on our itinerary is a ride at the Tempozan Ferris Wheel. This tourist attraction used to be the biggest and the tallest in the world, that is, until it was surpassed by the more massive London Eye. Just the same, it offers an amazing view of the city and it's an exhilarating 15-minute ride worth the price tag. At no additional cost, you may even opt for the all glass gondola. This we did not try, we were all scared enough as it is, having a glass floor would just probably cross the line from fun and exhilarating to down-right freaky and scary. </span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Each gondola is supervised by a sea-animal stuffed toy</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">View from the top</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The Gray/Red/Blue Kaiyukan Building</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Next on the list is the Tempozan Marketplace. It's just right beside the aquarium and there are plenty of stores and restaurants inside. Perfect way to cap our tiring and eventful day in Osaka.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><b>Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">1-1-10 Kaigandori, Minato Ward</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Osaka, Osaka Prefecture 552-0022</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Japan</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><b>Tel:</b> +81 6 6576 5501</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><b>Fax:</b> +81 6 6576 5510</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><b>Email:</b> info2@kaiyukan.com</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><b>Website:</b> http://www.kaiyukan.com/language/eng/index.html</span></div>
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Twisted Travelholichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02774181460166133997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1884270392345490257.post-53274059354049762162015-02-28T23:22:00.001+08:002015-03-01T21:53:36.581+08:00South Korea - Trick Eye Museum<div style="text-align: justify;">
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>November 29, 2014.</i> Welcome to the world of Trompe-l'oeil or Trick Eye! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The Trick Eye Museum in the University-district of Hongdae is our first stop for this trip. We took the subway to Hongik University Station and asked our way around. Y</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">es, we managed to find the place asking directions from people who hardly speak any English. Shows just how much helpful Koreans are (they'll literally go out of their way to help) and just how popular this attraction is.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The museum is located at the lower ground floor of the building, and on our way down, we saw The Love Museum. </span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">You've been warned!</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It's strictly for 18 years old and above and given the poster at the entrance, I don't think it's an attraction you'd want to visit with your kids or your parents (check the info graphic!).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Now back to the family-friendly, General Patronage-rated Trick Eye Museum. It's basically a 3D art museum where using perspective, light and shadow tricks, you become part of the artwork. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">To maximize the illusion, it's better to shoot without a flash. Also, there are marked "Photo Lines" or "Photo Points" where you should take the pictures. Lastly, you have to work it like a pro! Acting skills are required to get the most out of the pictures.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Luckily, the kids are so game that we were able to take tons of photos, and we had so much fun doing our silly poses. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This attraction is a definite must for families visiting Seoul. My kids had a blast and I love all the photos that we took. The fee though, is a little pricey but it covers </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">entrance to both the Trick Eye Museum and the Ice Museum. Unfortunately, due to time constraint, we decided to skip the Ice Museum and head out to check the shops and restaurants in the area instead.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Don't forget to visit their website to get a discount voucher, or you can check tourist handbooks for discount coupons.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><b>Trick Eye Museum</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">20 Hongik-ro-3-gil</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Mapo-gu, Seoul 121-838 Korea</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Phone: +82 2 3144 7748</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Email: trickeye@trickeye.com</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Website: www. trickeye.com</span></div>
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Twisted Travelholichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02774181460166133997noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1884270392345490257.post-61473941190696420842015-01-29T00:18:00.002+08:002015-03-01T00:32:43.005+08:00Japanese Visa Application<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Time for another visa application run -- this time to Japan! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I soooo love long holidays, but the long holiday this December (Christmas and New Year) and this January (Papal Visit) is sending me into panic mode! I need to renew our passports and apply for our visas and the very short working days are not making it any easier.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">After our trip to Korea, I knew I have to have our passports renewed so it'll still be valid for a least six months when we go to Japan. The thing is, I forgot to schedule an appointment! So I was only able to get a December 22 schedule. Perfect as there's no more school so the kids need not be absent, but not so perfect because due to the long holiday, I will be getting our passports second week of January (and this is after paying a rush processing fee) and our trip is scheduled end of January!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Good thing the procedure in getting a Japanese visa is pretty much simple: submit your documents to an accredited agency and wait for their notice on when to collect your passport.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Unlike way, way, way back, where you can submit directly to the Japanese Embassy and do away with the fees, effective July 30 2007, you now have to submit them to an accredited travel agency and pay a processing fee. The Japanese Embassy does not meddle with the fees charged by each agency. So processing fee varies and it's better to scout around for a good rate. </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The processing fee is non-refundable should you change your mind after submitting the application or in the event you were not given a visa.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Click <a href="http://www.ph.emb-japan.go.jp/visiting/new%20visa/list%20of%20accredited%20agencies.htm" target="_blank">here</a> for a complete list of accredited travel agencies.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Good news is that effective July 1 2013, the Japanese Embassy started issuing multiple-entry visas to Philippine-passport holders. And as of Sept 30 2014, conditions for giving multiple-entry visas will be more relaxed! I know we're still far from being included in the "no-visa" list, but a "relaxed" procedure is way better than nothing. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Submission of documents.</b> I decided to go with Discovery Tour as they have the cheapest fee at Php800 per person. I called up their office and they promptly emailed me the list of requirements:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1. Application Form. Download <a href="http://www.ph.emb-japan.go.jp/visiting/consular_j/new%20visa/visa%20application%20form%202012.pdf" target="_blank">he<span id="goog_342888792"></span><span id="goog_342888793"></span>re</a>.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">2. Passport (valid for at least six months)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">3. 2pcs 4.5cmx4.5cm colored photo (one to be pasted on the application form, and one to be submitted to the agency)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">4. Original NSO certificate (issued within the last 12 months)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">5. Original NSO marriage certificate (issued within the last 12 months)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">6. Tour Itinerary ( Sample format <a href="http://www.ph.emb-japan.go.jp/visiting/consular_j/new%20visa/itinerary.DOC" target="_blank">here</a>).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">7. Original Bank Certificate</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">8. Photocopy of ITR</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Yes, you need to submit a Birth Certificate regardless of what age you are. And yes, you are required to submit a Marriage Certificate even if your spouse is already deceased. If you're not sure if you're NSO certificate was issued within the time allowed, check the last 11 digit under the barcode of your certificate. It represents the month (2 digits), day (2 digits) and year (4 digits) when the certificate was issued. The last remaining digits, I'm not so sure what's it about. Haha!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">As for the tour itinerary, you are required to indicate the address and contact number of the hotel where you'll be staying. There's no need to include a copy of your hotel booking though.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">You are allowed to add more if you think it'll help your chances. Like in our case, since we have new passports, I included a photocopy of our visas and a summary of our travels.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Collection of passports.</b> Luckily, the Japanese Embassy processes applications really quickly. Four working days after we submitted our application, I received a call that our passports are ready for pick-up. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The quick turn-around time actually cuts the agony of waiting for the results. We usually breeze through the preparation of documents but the waiting game is the most stress-inducing. Especially for applications without appearance/interview since you will not be there to explain your case should there be any problem.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Finally got our visas (with only less than a week till our travel date!).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><b>Discovery Tour</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">301 G/F Sagittarius Bldg. HV Dela Costa St.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Salcedo Village, Makati City</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Tel: +63 2 8922849</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Mobile: +63915 3200780</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Email: japanvisamnl1@discoverytour.ph</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Website: http://discoverytour.ph/japanvisa/single-or-multiple-207.html </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><b>Japanese Embassy Manila</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">2627 Roxas Blvd., Pasay City</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Tel: +63 2 5515710</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Website: http://www.ph.emb-japan.go.jp</span></div>
Twisted Travelholichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02774181460166133997noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1884270392345490257.post-63133026493688394852015-01-28T23:53:00.001+08:002015-03-01T16:44:27.258+08:00Korean Visa Application<div style="border: none; font-size: 14px; margin: 0em; padding: 0em; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It's been ages since we have to secure a visa for our travel and we have to go through the nerve-wracking ordeal again for our trip to Korea. We've been through a couple of visa applications already but it just never gets easy. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The good news is, applying for a tourist Korean visa is absolutely free! Yes, no need to pay for any charges to schedule an appointment or pay any visa fee at the Embassy. I'm starting to love Korea already!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The procedure is fairly straightforward: prepare your documents, submit your documents at the Korean Embassy and collect your passport at the designated date.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Prepare your documents. </b>Here's the list of documents you have to prepare (as of March 01, 2015): </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1. Passport (valid for at least 6 months from the date of application)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">2. Application form. Download <a href="http://embassy_philippines.mofa.go.kr/english/as/embassy_philippines/visa/form/20111026/28259_file_VISA%20APPLICATION%20FORM.pdf" target="_blank">here</a>.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">3. 1 piece passport-size colored photo</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">4. Photocopy of passport's bio page</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">5. Original and photocopy of visa/s and arrival stamp/s to OECD countries for the past five years</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">6. </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>For employed:</i> </span><br />
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<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">original Certificate of Employment (stating position, date hired, compensation, with landline contact number, address and email of company) </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">original Bank Certificate (indicating account type, current balance, opening date and ADB for the past 6 months) </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">original Bank Statement or passbook for the past 6 months </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">photocopy of ITR</span></li>
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<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">photocopy of DTI/SEC registration </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">photocopy of Mayor's Permit </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">original Bank Certificate </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">(indicating account type, current balance, opening date and ADB for the past 6 months)</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">original Bank Statement or passbook for the past 6 months </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">photocopy of ITR</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i> For students:</i> </span></div>
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<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">original school certificate </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">photocopy of school ID </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">photocopy of NSO Birth Certificate </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">parent's financial documents</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">OECD countries include: Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Chile, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Korea, Luxembourg, Mexico, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovak Republic, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey, United Kingdom and United States of America.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Submission.</b> Upon completion of the requirements, just submit them at the Embassy anytime from 9:00am to 11:00am Monday to Friday. No need to secure a schedule beforehand. Also, you do not have to personally submit the documents, you may ask a messenger to do it for you. But for first time travellers, it is strongly advised to submit it personally in case the Embassy has any questions regarding the documents.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">In our case, I was the only one who went to the Embassy to submit our application. There will be someone who'll initially check your documents and then give you a number and assign you to which window/consul. As I understand, there's a separate window for first time travellers and for frequent travellers. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">You then wait for your number to be called. </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">After handing your documents to the consul, you will be given a claim stub with a date on which you may claim your passport. </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Processing time is usually three working days and could extend to five working days or more. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Collection of Passports.</b> </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Releasing time is from 2:00pm to 4:00pm Monday to Friday. </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Again, you may just ask someone to claim them for you but it is strongly recommended that you claim them personally in case the consul has any questions. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Please note that the parking in McKinley Hills is very far from the Embassy. Either bring a driver with you, or you can park at the Petron station right before the Embassy.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Please visit the Korean Embassy Manila's web page for updated guidelines and requirements in applying for a visa.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><b>Korean Embassy Manila</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">122 Upper McKinley Road, McKinley Town Center, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Website: http://embassy_philippines.mofa.go.kr/english/as/embassy_philippines/main/index.jsp</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Tel: </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">+63 2 8569210</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Email: philippines@mofa.go.kr</span></div>
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Twisted Travelholichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02774181460166133997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1884270392345490257.post-51470725564796960532014-12-31T22:39:00.003+08:002016-08-04T21:19:12.678+08:00Disney's Princess Makeover<div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>Sept 26, 2013</i>. Every girl dreams to be a princess -- and for our daughter's 7th birthday, she got to be one, in the happiest place on earth, amidst other princesses and fairytale characters. It was a truly magical celebration fit for royalty.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Our day started early as we catch the 5:00am flight to Hong Kong. We have a jam-packed day ahead of us and we are running on a really tight schedule. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Thanks to beloved fairy godmother -- we landed at exactly 7:40am at the Hong Kong International Airport. We rushed out and get a cab quickly to make it in time for our 9:00am appointment at the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique. </span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Where the magic happens.</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique is located inside Disneyland Hotel. The salon is just mesmerizing, it feels like we're stepping in a beauty salon for royals. As soon as we have confirmed our appointment, my daughter was ushered in one of the salon seats and the "fairies" started doing their magic.</span></div>
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<span style="text-align: start;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The Princess Make-Over costs about HKD600 and includes make-up, hair styling, nail polish, a Princess sash and of course a tiara! They also have princess gowns for sale to complete the look. </span></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We bought our own gown for our daughter so we just opted for the make-over. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I first learned of the Princess Make-Over when we visited Disneyland Florida way back. "I" wanted to try it soooo badly then. The thing is, it's only for kids 12 years old and below. Maybe Disney should have something for the 'kids at heart' as well.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">After about an hour our Princess is ready! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">After the make-over, there's a photo session that lasted for about half an hour. The photographer who worked with our daughter was really good. He knows how to make her do the silly and adorable poses that was one for the books.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">After just a few minutes, we were shown a huge stack of adorable, stunning, mesmerising photos -- in a photobook similar to those you get during weddings. The pictures are all gorgeous to say the least. I'd say Disneyland do know how to work their magic. You would want to buy ALL the photos and the photobook -- until you're shown the price that is.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">A single print costs HKD130 and the photobook costs HKD1600! I know it's insanely expensive for photos, but I would have bought them all still :). Good thing hubby was there to remind me to be reasonable. So I asked the staff to hold on to the photos until the next morning so I can think it over on which ones to get.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">It's a habit of mine that when deciding whether to get a big ticket item, I usually let it sit for a night. If I still think it's a good deal the next morning, then it's a good deal.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Ok, so after thinking about it long and hard -- I still wanted to buy all the photos! But since I don't want to start a fight with the hubby, I settled for 4 photos and we'll just have a photobook printed when we get home using the photos we got from hubby's camera. Problem solved!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">After the make-over, we headed straight to Disneyland Park where our dear little Princess was indeed treated like royalty. Then, to cap off our little Princess's big day, we had dinner with the Disney characters at the Enchanted Garden Restaurant. More posts on this (hopefully) coming soon!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Some things that might help:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">1. Set an appointment. I called months in advance to reserve a slot. You wouldn't want to spoil the fun by building up the excitement in your kid only to arrive at a fully-booked salon. You can also make dining reservations at the Enchanted Garden for a character meal and order a birthday cake in advance.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">2. Bring your own dress. Your child will be wearing it the entire day, so best if it's something she already owns and you know that she'll be comfortable sashaying in it all day. It's a LOT cheaper this way too.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">3. Prepare your budget. The experience is already memorable in itself, but you might want to plan ahead if you'll opt to get the photos. This way you won't get caught off-guard and spoil your vacation budget.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Tel: +852 3510 6000/ +852 1830 830</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Email: information@hongkongdisneyland.com</span><br />
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Twisted Travelholichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02774181460166133997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1884270392345490257.post-86600487494008090242014-08-28T06:11:00.001+08:002015-03-22T11:08:51.895+08:00Surfing in San Juan<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQzbZST49UWMxXvIFc4F8pd7OmMwH5V_0Se5aMKTTlaWNJUG4UsE13_tcbFhfChm1B0t8iu90mvUkEq9AiVeWTC40kt3sIxRBk7_w6dUPwolKE9G4S7CJ1T4yVGOZO-AY7G2O4NbPEWfFi/s1600/20140607_142901.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQzbZST49UWMxXvIFc4F8pd7OmMwH5V_0Se5aMKTTlaWNJUG4UsE13_tcbFhfChm1B0t8iu90mvUkEq9AiVeWTC40kt3sIxRBk7_w6dUPwolKE9G4S7CJ1T4yVGOZO-AY7G2O4NbPEWfFi/s1600/20140607_142901.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>June 7, 2014</i>. A few minutes drive away from Thunderbird Poro Point is San Juan beach. Famous for its soft-peeling waves and short rides -- the place is just perfect for surfing beginners like ourselves.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">San Juan Surf School is arguably the most popular surf school in the area. With Filipino-Australian surfer Luke Landrigan at the helm, they boast of an internationally-accredited surf training program and the use of soft boards -- all true to their commitment of offering fun, friendly and safe surfing experience.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Each of us get our own instructor. Our lesson started with a briefing about safety and standing techniques. After which, it was time to pick up our boards, run to the shore and paddle into the ocean.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Waiting for the wave.</span></td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The first ones to go were my daughter and my husband and they were able to stand on their first ride! Okay, so it kinda made me more nervous and excited and it added more to the pressure. Haha. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Next up is my son and I. We were told to get ready as our instructors pushed our boards in time with the wave. I carefully tried to find my balance, stood up and rode the wave as far as I can and hopped off my board before it hits the sand. I might also have screamed a little during the ride as the speed took me by surprise. It was exciting, it was exhilarating and I love it! </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">And so the cycle begins, we wait for the wave, we try to ride the wave and we paddle back to our spot. There are moments when we immediately flop, moments when we get to stand a little on our board </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">before we lose our balance, and sweet moments when we get to ride the wave to the shore. We got wiped out, we got pounded by the waves, we got hit by our surf boards, my son even fell face first on the sand. It was one of the craziest and most fun we had. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The hour sped by really fast -- too fast actually especially for the kids who insisted on surfing until closing hours! We were lucky it wasn't that hot even though it was middle of the day when we had our lessons.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">To cap off our fun and tiring activity, we had lunch at the resort. They serve really good food that's reasonably priced. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Rates start at P400 for an hour of surfing lessons and includes use of a soft surfboard and rash guard. They also offer packages that include accommodation at the resort.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">A few things you need to know if you want to try this activity:</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1. You should know how to swim (I think this one's a given). Although the water's not really that deep (instructors need to be able to stand on water), this is still a must. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">2. There's no minimum age. As long as the kid knows how to swim, is not afraid of the water, and can handle himself if he gets wiped out and gets pounded under water. This happened to us a couple of times. My son even hit the shore and ate sand on one of his rides (he said he enjoyed the ride so much he didn't want to jump when he reached the shore).</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">3. The surf school is open all year round. Surfing is possible any time of the year but the best season is in October to April.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">4. You can wear a two-piece suit under your rash guard and board shorts. But I suggest you wear a one piece to avoid any wardrobe malfunction especially if you get wiped out. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><b>San Juan Surf School</b></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Urbiztondo, San Juan</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">La Union</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Website: http://www.sanjuansurfschool.ph</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Tel: +6372 687 9990</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Mobile: +63 917 800 8004 / +63 917 744 2229</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Email: sanjuansurfschoolandshop@gmail.com</span></div>
Twisted Travelholichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02774181460166133997noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1884270392345490257.post-24297386411721498022014-07-29T22:14:00.000+08:002015-03-22T11:08:42.454+08:00Surfing in Catanduanes<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>July 06 2014</i>. From Tugawe Cove Resort in Caramoan, we arrive at Codon Port in Virac, Catanduanes. We headed straight to Catanduanes Midtown Inn to check in for the night. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The small hotel is near the airport and very close to a mall and a few fastfood restos. Our room was clean, comfortable and the bathroom looks newly renovated. For as low as Php985 a night, you get complimentary transfers to the airport. Plus, they have a genset, which proves to be really important as blackouts are very normal in the city.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Catanduanes is notorious for being frequented by super typhoons. Virac, it's capital town can be reached in less than an hour via plane from Manila. The province's claim to fame is the "majestic" surfing waves in Puraran Beach. The long, magnificent and barrelling swells draw surfers -- beginners and advance all the same, from all over the world.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Ok, so it wasn't actually a planned activity. But on our way up to our room, hubby saw a photo of someone surfing. When we asked the receptionist, she said that it was taken in Puraran Beach and it can be reached in an hour via tricycle. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">So not to waste any time, we dropped off our bags and packed our swimming stuff. We took a tricycle from the hotel to Puraran Beach and to be honest, an hour is too long to be in a tricycle especially when there's four of us cramped inside. We should have probably taken a cab or hired a van.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">When we got there, we saw a lot of surfers (mostly, if not all, Pros). They were far out in the ocean and clearly enjoying the HUGE waves. We actually felt a little bad for the four of them who'll be called back to shore to give us lessons.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHpzx9GRzHNSkbVuQ8ownsfQjkfp5h-w-mDJ3YEJ-js7Q7UGEKs9anOS9-5uKv0ikIGpQo4qh8uMBi-gq3rfv3OiX5LmZaOm1KUU3dGCWf3ER-egwgP7-J2RTWwFsoDIQ1ERhcWWAAM6aH/s1600/20140706_1033+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHpzx9GRzHNSkbVuQ8ownsfQjkfp5h-w-mDJ3YEJ-js7Q7UGEKs9anOS9-5uKv0ikIGpQo4qh8uMBi-gq3rfv3OiX5LmZaOm1KUU3dGCWf3ER-egwgP7-J2RTWwFsoDIQ1ERhcWWAAM6aH/s1600/20140706_1033+copy.jpg" height="220" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We immediately noticed the difference in the size of the waves compared to San Juan, La Union. The waves here are way bigger! Also, u</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">nlike in San Juan where you just paddle a little farther from the shore, we have to go all the way out because there are sharp corals near the shoreline. For us beginners, there's a separate area where the waves are not as intimidating (and dangerous!). But the good thing is it's not crowded. Actually, we are the only beginners who'll be surfing that time.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We were asked if we've tried surfing before and we said yes. Then we did away with the orientation and headed straight to the water. It was already late afternoon and the low tide is coming.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Surfing into the sunset.</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We all had a hard time adjusting at first. It's harder to get your balance with the bigger and faster waves. But after a few tries, we were able to stand on our boards! Too bad we were not able to take pictures using our DSLR because we are too far from the shore. We just have to rely on what we can capture on our GoPro. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I noticed a chipped off part at the front of my surfboard and I was told that, it was from a GoPro mount. Unfortunately, the waves washed out the mount (yes, including the GoPro). Apparently, a few GoPros have already been lost due to the waves. Too bad, we didn't find any floating around. Haha!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Best time to go if you're a beginner is from March to August. September to October is for the advance surfers. Rate is at Php400 per person inclusive of 1-hr lesson, use of surfboard and use of rashguard.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Time does fly super fast when your having fun. Before we know it, it was time to head back to shore (the water's becoming dangerously low). It was another surfing experience for the books!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><b>Puraran Surf Camp</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Puraran, Baras, Catanduanes</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Mobile: +63 977 1827537</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Email: info@puraransurf.com</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><b>Catanduanes Midtown Inn</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">San Jose, Virac, Catanduanes</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Website: www.catmidinn.com</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Mobile: +63 947 5638165 / +63 915 7218262</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Email: info@catmidinn.com</span></div>
Twisted Travelholichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02774181460166133997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1884270392345490257.post-57093877042685368782014-07-29T21:50:00.001+08:002015-03-22T11:08:27.136+08:00Thunderbird Resort Poro Point<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJqrDciajPHV7jwPjw5IFCs5yuodJj02LbwNDaxg7Up3OZv_MtjyvBiW5CkrnPg3h8xa92GdkUgjvY_xmZrU3EcbPXA8Xde9xn51XeD0FFWS5LeTwaD8HKFpwbwhIU9ZeDFFyAyDuLBvWj/s1600/20140606_134705.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJqrDciajPHV7jwPjw5IFCs5yuodJj02LbwNDaxg7Up3OZv_MtjyvBiW5CkrnPg3h8xa92GdkUgjvY_xmZrU3EcbPXA8Xde9xn51XeD0FFWS5LeTwaD8HKFpwbwhIU9ZeDFFyAyDuLBvWj/s1600/20140606_134705.jpg" height="295" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>June 6-8, 2014</i>. Thunderbird Resort Poro Point is a Mediterranean-inspired resort in La Union. It has Santorini's signature white-wash architecture dotted with blue accents. It's a five-hour drive away from Manila and could soon be shorter when TPLEX gets completed. Just perfect for a quick spur-of-the-moment weekend getaway.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We arrived at the resort shortly after lunch. So after a quick check-in, we headed straight to our first activity - Water Gun Fight.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMeCB7xvtZRNM-a1Id1_VyNRhJp3hTK87Ysa7XGv3IDCTWpRdPxSpAYoK9wZUmduuNe_57sntJ8U_QmEbqjz9S4HACZ_YVbpoZ88Vdxx2YH-7HaZPCdX12T-W37-9Zms6v2SS_4Gsic0VB/s1600/20140606_110.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMeCB7xvtZRNM-a1Id1_VyNRhJp3hTK87Ysa7XGv3IDCTWpRdPxSpAYoK9wZUmduuNe_57sntJ8U_QmEbqjz9S4HACZ_YVbpoZ88Vdxx2YH-7HaZPCdX12T-W37-9Zms6v2SS_4Gsic0VB/s1600/20140606_110.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">They have this huge "battle arena" complete with obstacle course. The mere sight of it made the kids so psyched. For Php200 per person per hour, you'll be provided with a big-a$$ water gun and of course safety goggles. You might think an hour is too short but once you're holding the heavy (as hell) water gun under the scorching sun, it'll be a miracle if you last for even half of the allotted time.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkxClxdQDt7lkIOwRntwduhVE2c6c1GyFcN4C_cfjPCktWBra_c6jpQP1yJDc5LFJBoJ3YeYHwYy2FCuZZJZ4rVmQd5MH3ybR0JASFTUyILvdmgYLvL7ZspyxNHWgtPGGF9_M_KIECRPu_/s1600/Water+Fight+copy.jpg" height="300" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Having a blast.</span></td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The game is simple -- get your opponent's flag without getting hit during the process. Of course, you're free to have your own rules, or simply discard the rules altogether and hit each other until you turn blue or orange or whatever color of water ammunition you have.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The water they use is tinted (different color for each team) so you know if you get hit. It's totally safe -- washable and we did not get any allergies, whatsoever. We were totally drenched from head to foot with colored water.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We got to play two rounds, after which we were just plain exhausted from running and carrying the heavy water guns around. We probably was just able to play for fifteen minutes, though it felt as if we've worked out for an hour. It was awesome, and needless to say we all had a great time. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Now it's time to shower, hit the pool, visit the beach and eat!</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Special order -- Hawaiian Pizza.</span></td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Their pool bar serves delicious snacks and if you have something in mind that doesn't appear in the menu, simply ask and they can probably whip it up for you.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji_iDucC-I_ogn7MtJOWt60P_GAO3e-NCjSU_UaKwc_kIavXaowQ3iSccv6KrDWo1Plxqe79ffn8IGZM54XDtOLqk3mT6pNJ-kNhv1zSHKjqhyphenhyphen84H6E4Um1SuCc0V5majMRV5y5-KLZ7GW/s1600/20140606_130.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji_iDucC-I_ogn7MtJOWt60P_GAO3e-NCjSU_UaKwc_kIavXaowQ3iSccv6KrDWo1Plxqe79ffn8IGZM54XDtOLqk3mT6pNJ-kNhv1zSHKjqhyphenhyphen84H6E4Um1SuCc0V5majMRV5y5-KLZ7GW/s1600/20140606_130.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></span></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfrKq0xuy-C7asJnMkbnSikPPxyW731Ga2Z8Z7bhlTr7hdtQtc3ao9htr3mzGlR320Lni2wFBhX4rgUvzqzw7OrjlN8v4e9pC1SQWmtYhrhVMafLVNdse-yxBIb0coxPnYpC0ycOaxec-3/s1600/Beach+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfrKq0xuy-C7asJnMkbnSikPPxyW731Ga2Z8Z7bhlTr7hdtQtc3ao9htr3mzGlR320Lni2wFBhX4rgUvzqzw7OrjlN8v4e9pC1SQWmtYhrhVMafLVNdse-yxBIb0coxPnYpC0ycOaxec-3/s1600/Beach+copy.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The beach is ok though their pool is a little small. Nonetheless, the kids had a blast swimming and playing.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXzib92AnvqOwv80ctN-J0Sm6ID56ALulAZ3NmNfL0NNwt8krEy7kc_WnLsO8O4vGjLPBFy-FhiBNEEBs-Gyw2Xw3E_NLN0zU9-vEpHgLVdiBfv1k6L3hpYct3lJK6nYEi0Ci6QvpvPOtD/s1600/20140607_200429.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXzib92AnvqOwv80ctN-J0Sm6ID56ALulAZ3NmNfL0NNwt8krEy7kc_WnLsO8O4vGjLPBFy-FhiBNEEBs-Gyw2Xw3E_NLN0zU9-vEpHgLVdiBfv1k6L3hpYct3lJK6nYEi0Ci6QvpvPOtD/s1600/20140607_200429.jpg" height="295" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">For dinner, we decided to try the Chinese buffet at Vegas Restaurant. It's near their casino and there's a free shuttle that can take you there from the resort. It's separate from the main casino so kids are ok to go.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The buffet price is really cheap so I guess I should not have expected so much. I mean, I get what I pay for. The food is ok at best and there's a very limited spread. Imagine my disappointment when there was not a single dim sum, and it's a Chinese buffet!</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">View from Olives Restaurant</span></td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Luckily, the breakfast the next day at Olives restaurant made up for the disappointing dinner the previous night. The spread is ample, the food is delicious and the view of the pool and the beach from the veranda is gorgeous. </span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Driving range at The Cliffs Golf and Beach Club.</span></td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-Bko7pZGW-Fb0TPxjnqlGWBpyUdPl0WFeJ1bN0uI-ZuF1lCUEds5DMUDb6_KnUelodqE3yHUTqhdm0r0JIDWMUnqiQqAEBoHZsNnLzITTZTGu8c4gHclIcCI2YcT5UFJRDXf16RqqP8dt/s1600/Golf.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-Bko7pZGW-Fb0TPxjnqlGWBpyUdPl0WFeJ1bN0uI-ZuF1lCUEds5DMUDb6_KnUelodqE3yHUTqhdm0r0JIDWMUnqiQqAEBoHZsNnLzITTZTGu8c4gHclIcCI2YcT5UFJRDXf16RqqP8dt/s1600/Golf.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Activity for the day: try the driving range. At Php125 per bucket of 50 balls, I guess it's not bad. It's the kids' first time to try the sport and they didn't like it that much. They both had a hard time making their balls fly and they both complained about how heavy the clubs are (no kid's club available). Amidst the complaints, they kept on hitting until they finish their own buckets.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Our last stop was the Lighthouse, just a short ten-minute drive from the resort. Nothing really special here, just a lighthouse and a museum. We snapped a few photos and headed back. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Overall, the resort is beautiful and their room is clean and spacious (though it already shows signs of aging). The staff, especially the person in charge of their activities, is courteous and knowleadgeable. I've read a few not so good reviews online and it's probably because the amount the resort charges doesn't quite live up to the expectations. You can book a better room from a better resort for the same price. It's definitely far from Bellarocca Resort which really has luxurious rooms and amenities.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #8b8787; font-size: 12px;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;"><b><i>
Thunderbird Resort Poro Point</i></b> </span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Poro Point Freeport Zone</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">San Fernando City, La Union</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Website: http://www.thunderbirdresortslaunion.com </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Tel: +63 72 888 7777</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Mobile: +63 908 815 8984</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Email: pororeservations@thunderbird-asia.com</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>July 5-7 2013</i>. I love celebrating my birthday on the beach! Scorching sun, pristine white sand and crystal clear water -- heaven! </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">For this trip, we were choosing between Shangri-la Resort and Discovery Shores. After browsing through reviews and blogs over the Internet, we decided to stay in Shangri-la, which is supposed to be more family friendly. We were not disappointed, this is one of the best resorts we've been to and the whole trip was just awesome!</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Ok, so it didn't exactly started out perfectly as our AirAsiaZest flight was delayed for more than three hours. Fortunately, my little angels were in a good mood and busied themselves with playing their iPods while waiting for our flight.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It was a short one hour flight to Kalibo. At the airport, we were met by a representative from Shangri-La who helped us get to a bus going to Caticlan. There are several bus companies and van operators at the airport so getting a transfer on your own will not be a problem. </span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>Having fun at Kalibo airport</i></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>Comfy buses</i></span></td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">At Caticlan, Shangri-la has it's own lounge where a private speedboat will take us to the resort. </span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>Private lounge at Caticlan</i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> </span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>Aboard Shangri-La's private boat</i></span></td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We cruised for less than thirty minutes along the white beach of Boracay and I'm just reminded of how beautiful and breathtaking the place is.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Shangri-La Boracay is just paradise! The atmosphere is so relaxing and the view is just stunning.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Check in was a breeze (you can provide your info and IDs via email prior to your trip to avail of the express check-in). The room is spacious and gorgeous and the bathroom is huge! The veranda has a daybed and opens up to a garden. What I love also is the strong wi-fi connection in the room and free flowing bottled water all through out the resort.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i>Welcome treats for the kids</i></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i>Daybeds at the veranda</i></span></td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The pool area is massive -- it's like one huge maze of free-form pools surrounded with landscaped garden and fountains. It's just absolutely beautiful. I know I can't stop gushing, even remembering the place now makes me drool. Haha. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The beach though is a little dissapointing. The</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> resort has it's own private beach, so it's not that crowded, but the sand is on the rough side (doesn't even come close to the one on White Beach).</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> But of course, this didn't stop us from having a blast.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Snorkeling gear is provided free of charge at the resort. They also have sand-digging toys for the kids.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">There's a restaurant at the pool area and they serve yummy and reasonably priced snacks. Me and the hubby stayed under the umbrellas while the kiddos went snorkeling at the beach and hopped from one pool to another. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">For dinner, we tried their buffet by the beach. The spread is ok and the food is good, though (as expected) a little pricey.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The next morning, we had a hearty breakfast (needless to say it was very delicious) and headed to White Beach. The resort offers a free shuttle that runs every hour. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We were greeted with powdery white sand and c</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">rystal clear, glistening, turquoise water. Not a single trace of <i>lumot</i>!</span></span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">After walking along the shore and having a sip of the famous Jona's shake, we decided to try two activities -- Banana Boat and Helmet Diving. I wanted to try the Flying Fish but the kids are still too small for it. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The Banana Boat was a little scarier than the UFO ride we tried in Puerto Galera. Both kids were screaming all throughout the ride. Haha.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The Helmet Dive is waaaay harder than it looks! My daughter was only able to go halfway through the water then decided to go back up. My son was able to go all the way down though he was not able to stay very long. He had a hard time equalizing. Hubby got a terrible headache after. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">There's a constant noise over your ear and at times it's hard to equalize (you just feel the pressure stuffing both your ears). </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This activity will allow you to see and feed a lot of fish. I just feel like you'll enjoy it more if you know what to expect. I thought it'll be as easy as jumping on the water, putting on the helmet and walking underwater. Just remember that there's pressure underwater and it's going to make you very, very, very uncomfortable.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZruVgiuMUcJzSb4Zn1JFOMkt25S7n9XtV03pHbnlSsGPyM-G6nLZWLeQL-4dvf00fz304AcsJDyHaGeB-BLMuyVSNB-bvaqlB4KrxYH0cHQrLS0Z7H84sMnmep3_qpCUH6HeBcGjHKoF_/s1600/20130706_367.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZruVgiuMUcJzSb4Zn1JFOMkt25S7n9XtV03pHbnlSsGPyM-G6nLZWLeQL-4dvf00fz304AcsJDyHaGeB-BLMuyVSNB-bvaqlB4KrxYH0cHQrLS0Z7H84sMnmep3_qpCUH6HeBcGjHKoF_/s1600/20130706_367.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i>Dinner at Mañana Mexican Restaurant</i></span></td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The next day, we stayed at the resort and tried their indoor activities:</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Remember to bring socks AND long sleeves for the kids. They need both to play in the indoor play area and use the slides.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">All in all, it was a GREAT vacation. I'd say Shangri-la is worth every penny you'll be spending. Just a tip, call or email Shangri-la Boracay directly and ask for their local residents rate -- it's by far the best rate you can get. Even better that discounted rates they offer online.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><i><b>Shangri-La Boracay Resort and Spa</b></i></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Barangay Yapak, Boracay Island</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Malay, Aklan</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Tel: +63 36 288 4988</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Email: reservations.slbo@shangri-la.com</span><br />
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Twisted Travelholichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02774181460166133997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1884270392345490257.post-30284124481018966572014-03-01T12:52:00.001+08:002015-03-22T11:03:41.900+08:00Segway Tour of Intramuros<div style="text-align: justify;">
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>October 15, 2013</i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">. For lack of better things to do on a lazy, holiday Tuesday, we decided on a spur of the moment visit to Intramuros. I've read about the "Electric Chariots Tour" on a groupon site a while back and thought the kids would love to try it. I showed them photos of the Segway and the ATV and they both got excited to try the ATV (they don't know how to ride a bike yet and a vehicle with 4 wheels seems safer for them).</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I called </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>White Knight Tours</i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> and booked a 3pm schedule. Their website says that the minimum height for for a participant is 130cm and minimum weight is 45kg. This they say is to ensure that the kid can reach the handle of the Segway and weighs enough to control it. My skinny daughter absolutely do not meet both requirements (kinda short on the height part and grossly below the minimum weight). But </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I was informed by Josh of White Knight Tours that they have had guests who are as young as 7 years old and he assured me that my tiny daughter can be accommodated. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">White Knight Tours' office is located inside White Knight Hotel Intramuros, right in front of the iconic San Agustin Church. It was a weekday so parking was not a problem. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We met Josh, our tour guide and immediately suited up for our tour. Donning our helmets, knee pads and elbow pads, we were ready to listen to the briefing. </span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">All ears during the orientation.</span></i></td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It was all our first time to ride (and actually touch) a Segway. Josh said the Segway is easier to control compared to the ATV, so we'll all be using this one. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">First thing to remember is that it's all about balance. If you put your weight forward, you'll move forward, if you put your weight at the back, you'll move backward. To stop, all you have to do is put your weight in the middle. Sounds easy piecy right? Surprisingly it is! To her delight and to my relief - my little daughter passed the practical exam so she can ride her own Segway and of course she'll be assigned an assistant for safety reasons.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">All set to go.</span></i></td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">First stop is to go around the Plaza San Luis Complex. Moving in one line, we went around the famous fountain, curiously taking in the sights of Spanish-era Manila and trying to keep our balance so as not to fall flat on our faces. We saw a group teenagers in costumes (probably filming something for school) and it added to the old Manila charm of the place.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Next stop, San Agustin Church. This is where we actually go out of the safety of the Plaza and meet more people and cars on the streets. It was a bumpy ride at first but we were all getting the hang of it by this time.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Next on the list is the old Ateneo de Manila school which is now partly covered by the DOT's clamshell - a site for regional exhibits and events. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We then proceeded to the Galeria Delos Presidencia which is literally a gallery of the past presidents of the Philippines. My son was so engrossed in reading all the facts about the past presidents and he kept asking our guide with a lot of questions. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We continued going around the walled city passing Quartel de Santa Lucia, Victoria Plaza, Baluarte de San Diego and the Muralla Wall. The tour lasts for roughly an hour.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">You can ask one of the friendly guides to hold the camera for you and snap away (which is what I did). This way, you don't have to worry about maintaining your balance while taking pictures while watching out for cars on the street. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">All in all it was a great experience for everyone, especially the kids. They really enjoyed it and was even planning to come back along with their friends and classmates.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><b><i>White Knight Tours</i></b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><i>Plaza San Luis Complex </i></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><i>Gen. Luna St. cor. Urdaneta St., Manila</i></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><i>Tel: +63 2 5266539 / </i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><i>+63 2 5266181</i></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><i>Email: intramuroschariots@gmail.com</i></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><i>Website: http://www.whiteknighttours.com</i></span></div>
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Twisted Travelholichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02774181460166133997noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1884270392345490257.post-73403793861888609592013-07-17T20:55:00.002+08:002015-03-22T11:07:41.887+08:00Rainy Puerto Galera Weekend<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;"><i style="color: #222222; line-height: 18px;">May 11-13, 2013. </i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;">I haven't been this excited to go the beach as it has been an eternity since we last travelled. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;">I was really looking forward to the sight of pristine waters and the chance to soak up some sun while doing absolutely NOTHING. I'm far from being light-skinned, but I absolutely love getting roasted under the sun! Life for me is lying on a lounger by the pool or along the shore, sipping a smoothie :)</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;">For this trip, w</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;">e decided to go to Puerto Galera -- an easy two-hour drive to Batangas Port and an hour at a ferry and it's sea, sun and sand galore already! </span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;">But as fate would have it, it starts to rain really hard the night before our trip and according to PAG-ASA it'll last for at least three days, which will exactly cover our entire vacation. </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It's been scorching hot since the start of the year (with record high temperatures being reported) and it chose to rain on the weekend of our first trip to the beach for the year. Great.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">So we set out on a gloomy Saturday morning to Batangas Port and caught a ferry bound for Puerto Galera. The Port has a big parking space for vehicles and you can opt to leave it there for a couple of days. It'll cost roughly PHP100 for 24 hours which I think isn't bad. There are a number of ferries you can choose from and there's one leaving every hour. No need to bother to check the schedule or fuss with reservations.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;">We stayed at <b>The Manor</b> (near Muelle Port) during our first night and it's definitely one of the best accommodations you can find in the island. It's not exactly beach front (it's actually quite far and will cost you PHP150 to travel to White Beach via tricycle), but the comfort and great service definitely makes up for the poor location. We enjoyed the great view while lounging on the (kinda small) infinity pool and the kids enjoyed playing billia</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">rds and foosball at the game room.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>The Manor at Puerto Galera</i></span></td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;">Unfortunately, we were only able to stay for one night because they are already fully booked. So the next day, we set out to White Beach and checked in at Apartelle de Francesca (which was a big mistake, more details later). We also booked our island hopping tour through the hotel (which was an even bigger mistake, again details later).</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;">The weather was erratic -- we'll get sunny for a minute, cloudy the next few and scattered drizzles here and there, it was insane! But not wanting to waste time, we went to the beach to try some rides. We initially wanted the Banana Boat, but since we have kids with us, we were advised to try the UFO instead. </span></span></span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>Riding on the sidelines.</i></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>Hands up for a great ride!</i></span></td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 1.4;">Being big fans of theme parks, we really enjoyed being tossed and dragged in a rough, bumpy ocean and being splashed with salt water while we hold on for dear life. Unlike roller coasters though, this one doesn't come with a standard seatbelt and it's best to hold on tight. Do not in a any way imitate my daughter who raised her hands during the ride. A number of groups tried the UFO but I haven't seen it capsize nor seen anyone who flew out to the sea. So I guess, for kids, this is a safer option compared to the Banana Boat.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;">Next on our list - get a henna tattoo. A trip to Galera is just not complete without this one. The kids and I got a small tattoo while the hubby opted to have his entire shoulders inked. </span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>First time to get inked.</i></span></td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">We wanted to get a quick lunch before our island hopping tour and I was surprised that finding a decent place to eat can be quite an ordeal in this island. The only food worth writing about is the PHP50 halo-halo which is brimming with fruits and all other ingredients and is just drop-dead delicious. Hubby ate two servings all by himself (told you it was that good!).</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;">We headed back to the resort to meet our boatman for our island hopping tour. We have to ride a tricycle going to the docks as all boats going on island hopping has to depart from this particular port. After waiting for what seems like an eternity at the port, we were finally on our way to our first island. Or so we thought.</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;">We stopped somewhere in the middle of the ocean (along with other boats) and we were informed that we have to rent a smaller banca (read -- pay extra) so we can get to the caves, giant clams, and so on. So we told him that the contract was for a 4-hour island-hopping tour and we do not intend to go to those places he mentioned as we feel the kids are not ready for those. We were told that if we do not want to go to these places, we can just do snorkeling in that area. We were fine with it and so we donned our life vests and jumped in the water. </span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;">The kids are not particularly excited about snorkeling. From a previous trip, as soon as they saw a school of fish and massive corals, they literally run back to shore. I think the idea of being so deep scared them. This time with no shore to run to, we manage to have them peek a little under the water and then raise their head if they're uncomfortable. We manage to do this a couple of times, until they got a little comfortable and they even threw bread so the fish will go to them.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;"><br /></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;">We've been to better snorkeling areas, but this one is special since this is the first time the kids enjoyed snorkeling (or their version of peeking underwater).</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;">Next stop is an island (sorry forgot the name!) where we can swim. Sand here is not exactly fine. It's actually pebbled and hubby found the flat stones which you can throw and it'll bounce a couple of times in the water. The kids were still busy snorkeling -- they kinda enjoyed the headpiece, the life vest and the site of algae and small almost transparent fish that ply the shore.</span> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;">We stayed here for a little while and headed back to the boat for our next destination. The kids were still on a high and was expecting to visit more islands. </span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;">To our dismay and frustration, we were told that we are heading back to the docks as we have finished the island hopping tour. I do not have my watch with me but I'm freaking sure that not even an hour has past yet. Of course, I did tell the man about the agreement but he decided to just ignore me and head back to the port anyway.</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;">When we got back to the resort, the man I initially talked to was even surprised to see us back so soon. So I gave him the story of how the boatman he referred us to simply refused to take us anywhere else and insisted we head back pronto. He did apologize for the mishap but that can't make up for anything, especially since the kids were having fun and were still looking forward to visiting more islands. </span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;"><br /></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;">Since the kids obviously still want to stay in the water, we let them swim in the hotel pool for a little while. The pool is shaped like a footprint with small jacuzzis. It's not big, but enough for the guests. </span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;">Our room on the other hand is far from ok. The water from the shower is barely enough to get the soap out of our body, there was a colony of gigantic ants in the bathroom, bed and pillows are not comfortable and the linens could use some fabric conditioner. The worst part is when they charged us for non-existent stains in the pillowcases when we checked out the next day. I probably wouldn't be complaining as much if I don't have something to compare it to. The Manor has way better beddings, comes with free breakfast and costs less than Apartelle de Francesca. </span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;">Moving on, our next agenda is where to have dinner. As I've mentioned earlier, finding a decent place to eat is quite a feat. We settled in a Mang Inasal knock-off located near the beach and has jet-ski inspired tables. We didn't enjoy the food but the kids definitely enjoyed playing on the table.</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;">The next day, we set out early so we can be back in Manila by lunchtime. I still have a responsibility to do as a Filipino (which is to vote!) and I do not want to miss this one out.</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;">As we head back home, hubby and I were discussing how the place has a lot of potential only if someone would invest in building a better accommodation/resort in the island and putting up restaurants that actually serve decent food. If not for new and better resorts, we don't see ourselves coming here anytime soon, or ever. </span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><b>The Manor at Puerto Galera</b></span></i></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Yacht Club Road, Brgy, Sto. Nino, Puerto Galera, Philippines</span></i></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Tel: <a href="tel:+63926-9377908" x-apple-data-detectors-result="4" x-apple-data-detectors="true">+63926-9377908</a> / <a href="tel:+63949-7681504" x-apple-data-detectors-result="5" x-apple-data-detectors="true">+63949-7681504</a></span></i></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Website: http://themanorpuertogalera.com</span></i></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Email: info@themanorpuertogalera.com</span></i></span><br />
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Twisted Travelholichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02774181460166133997noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1884270392345490257.post-49568513887290812492013-02-24T14:29:00.001+08:002015-03-22T11:06:18.527+08:00Quick Baguio Getaway<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT91heEioME0xwB0M-w2QI2yvWnam3mw4XIxzZeBwNvi7d3A29NK3YkwawtUoJUEQHlRiDhJ2y3B8Q5m-GC732bbZ9LNI1nIUPKrH9GIgboXQGIZR1uztWaLTtM_wm2uH_kEk3-P4hk8f2/s1600/20121027-IMG_0096.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT91heEioME0xwB0M-w2QI2yvWnam3mw4XIxzZeBwNvi7d3A29NK3YkwawtUoJUEQHlRiDhJ2y3B8Q5m-GC732bbZ9LNI1nIUPKrH9GIgboXQGIZR1uztWaLTtM_wm2uH_kEk3-P4hk8f2/s400/20121027-IMG_0096.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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<i>November 26-27, 2012.</i> My memories of Baguio include watching in awe as my breath turns to fog, smelling the lovely scent of the pine trees and playing in the seesaw at Camp John Hay. Hubby had similar fond memories of the place when he was a kid and we decided it's about time our kids experience the City of Pines. We booked an overnight stay at The Manor and with a little help from Google Map a strong Smart 3G signal, drove five hours to our destination.</div>
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It was a chilly November and the 19C temperature is absolutely wonderful! The hotel is somewhat in a limbo of celebrations as the interiors were Halloween-themed while the lawn outside is so Christmasy.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i>Halloween by the fireplace.</i></span></td></tr>
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First on our list of things to do is to visit the Strawberry Farm in Benguet. None of us have tried strawberry picking yet and I heard it'll be loads of fun (for the kids at least). Again, we decided to let Google Map lead us to our destination but instead of a 30-minute trip, we ended up traveling for more than an hour on a steep and narrow cliff before we reached the farm. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>All green strawberry field.</i></span></td></tr>
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I guess luck wasn't really on our side this time as we were greeted with a strawberry field, without the strawberries. Sigh. We were advised to come back after a week if we wan't to do the fruit picking. Apparently, strawberry picking season starts December and ends in May. I can't believe we were a week early!</div>
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After an epic failed attempt at the Farm, we went to Burnham Park to ride the boat. We let the kids do the paddling, screaming and fighting. The fun they had definitely made up for the earlier disappointment.</div>
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We headed back to Camp John Hay and went to Le Chef for dinner. Food was really good (I ordered steak and prawns) and the Baguio weather and the Manor's log cabin ambiance is just dreamy. The best part is the price tag that come's with it is just reasonable. I definitely would want to dine here again.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: small;">All lit up at night.</i></td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black; font-family: Times; font-size: 13px; line-height: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small; line-height: 18px;">We always look forward </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small; line-height: 18px;">to breakfast and we are all excited to try the menu at Cafe by the Ruins. It's just a quick drive to this restaurant near Session Road </span></span>and it wasn't that busy yet when we arrived. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i>All-time favorite food -- rice and egg.</i></span></td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I love the crepe! The mangoes are sweet and it's heavy enough to tide me through lunch. Their breads are also delicious. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">After a heavy breakfast, we went straight to Good Shepherd Convent and buy pasalubong. There were many people but there were many counters to accommodate them all. There was a line but it moved very quickly. Next stop, Mines View Park next door.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The first thing I noticed is the long line to have a picture taken with a St. Bernard dog. I was surprised to see more "booths" offering pictures with the same breed but they do not have the long line as the one near the entrance. No idea what's the story behind that particular dog though. As we walk along, we saw the stall where you can dress in native Cordillera costume and have your photo taken. I asked the kids if they want to try it but they said they'd only do it if they get to keep the costumes. Ok, I guess we'll pass this one. </span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i>Chilly up here.</i></span></td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">After taking some photos and buying some more souvenirs, we headed back to the car and started the long drive home.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><b>The Manor at Camp John Hay</b></span></i></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Loakan Road, Baguio City</span></i></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Tel: 074-4240931 to 43 / 02-6876710</span></i></span></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Website: http://www.campjohnhay.ph</span></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Email: reservations@campjohnhay.ph</span></i></span></div>
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Twisted Travelholichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02774181460166133997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1884270392345490257.post-80121143019272688742012-07-22T13:07:00.001+08:002016-08-04T21:17:47.625+08:00Bellarocca - Marinduque's Beautiful Rock<div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<i>April 7-9, 2012.</i> I've always wanted to go to Bellarocca ever since I've first read about it in a magazine years ago. I got intrigued by it's charming Santorini-inspired architecture and picturesque landscape. Seems like paradise to me and I wanted a taste of it.<br />
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So come morning, we woke up bright and early and super excited to go to to the resort. It was about an hour drive from our hotel in Boac to Lipata Port in the town of Buenavista. We didn't really have clear directions as to how to get there, aside from the very helpful advise from the resort's reservations staff to just follow the road and if need be, ask the locals for directions. Fortunately, there really is just one major road you have to follow and luckily my husband recognized the gated port even though there were no signs whatsoever (he said that the guard was a giveaway since it was very unlikely in the area).<br />
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From the jetty, it was a quick 5-minute speed boat ride to the island. It was so close I actually think it's possible to swim to the resort from the jetty, that is if you're a triathlete or an Iron-Man sort of person.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">View from the jetty. It's actually so close it was tempting to jump in the water and swim to the island.</span></i></span></span></td></tr>
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Upon arriving at the resort, we were greeted with leis and a welcome song. The main pavilion is located at the top so we have to wait for a golf cart to bring us there. It was a steep and long climb, not something you'd want to do on foot trust me. But if you're up to the challenge, it would actually make a hell of a hill training!<br />
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At the pavilion, we were served pandan iced tea while we register. There were a lot of people registering/checking-in that day and since our Terraza room was not ready yet, we were given a deluxe room where we can stay and park our things temporarily. Not to waste time, we suited up, went straight to the buffet lunch and hit the pool. <br />
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We are a big group and we got three two-bedroom-Terrazas wherein each one can accommodate 4 adults and two kids. Luckily, you get really good rates if you are a BDO Platinum or Titanium cardholder.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Huge two-bedroom Terraza</span></i></td></tr>
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The 3 days and 2 nights we spent went by so quickly with packed activities. Here's what got us occupied at the resort:<br />
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1. Soaking up some sun in their super comfy loungers while admiring Mt. Malindig across the infinity pool. Just don't forget to apply and re-apply sunscreen to avoid getting fried like we did.<br />
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2. Flying a kite. This is actually the first time the kids got to do this and they spent a good amount of time under the scorching sun until the only thing left was tangled thread.<br />
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3. Going on a kayak race. It's comforting to know that their trusty lifeguards follow and stay close to you when you do this. Especially helpful when my kids' kayak capsized and they immediately came to the rescue. We even saw other guests who took their kayaks all the way to the jetty port in Lipata.<br />
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4. Jumping off at the Marina Bridge. Adults jumped from the ledge (where Derek Ramsey supposedly likes to jump to) while the kids jumped from the bridge. Well as for me, I've tried both. The jump from the bridge was ok (though it took twenty minutes of coaxing before I finally took the plunge) and the one from the ledge is more intense where you can really feel the sensation in your gut. Note though that you can only do this during high tide, so best schedule this in the morning.<br />
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You're not allowed to wear a life vest when you do this, so we have to ask their lifeguard to catch the kids when they hit the water and give them their vest. As expected, it took quite a while of sweet-talking, cheering, cajoling and a lot of bribing before my son finally leaped into the water. When he came up for air, we were greeted with a "THAT WAS SO COOOOOLLL!" remark and then went my daughter next. They jumped a couple more times after. Needless to say, the kids had a blast and we are super thankful to Bellarocca's patient staff who tirelessly waited in the water to catch my kids in their every jump. The experience was just priceless.<br />
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5. Snorkeling. You'll meet loads of fish and a few sea snakes (we saw one very, very near the shore, so be careful!). Again, you can ask their lifeguard to go with you and he can show you where to snorkel best. He'll even bring snacks to lure the fish to you.<br />
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6. Catching a puffer fish. Ok, so it wasn't really us who caught it, but just the same, it was such a delight to hold it and see it float in the ocean until it shrinks to its normal size.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><i>Who wants to play throw and catch the puffer fish?</i></span></td></tr>
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7. Participating in the art activities at the lunch pavilion. While us adults are busy stuffing ourselves with food, the kids on the other hand, got busy painting and drawing.</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Not exactly Louvre-material, but a labor of love nonetheless.</span></i></span></span></div>
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8. Playing Foosball and billiards at the game room. The kids had fun playing boardgames as well. There's just something about playing Chess no-rules-style that really delights them.<span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span></div>
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9. Enjoying the free cocktails while watching the sunset. This is actually a really nice way to cap off an afternoon of activities. There's an option for alcoholic and non-alcoholic drink so kids can participate as well.</div>
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10. Exploring the resort and looking for more breathtaking views to capture.<br />
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It was a really enjoyable, relaxing and memorable stay. I would love to go back given we can arrange for a less stressful way of getting there (mental note to self: never ride the RORO on a Holy Week).<br />
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A few more things you should know:<br />
<ul>
<li>There's no Sun signal at the island, Globe and Smart have good signals though. </li>
<li>The restaurant offers buffet and a la carte food. Buffet prices are reasonable enough though choices are limited.</li>
<li>The resort offers free wired Internet in the rooms. </li>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i><b><br /></b></i></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i><b>Bellarocca Island Resort and Spa</b></i></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>Marinduque, Philippines</i></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>Tel: 8177290</i></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>Email: info@bellaroccaresorts.com</i></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">How to get there from Manila via Roro: Drive to
Dalahican Port in Lucena, Quezon and board the RORO bound for Cawit
Port. From there, drive to the town of Buenavista following the road
close to the ocean. Watch out for the gated/guarded port which is
Bellarocca's jetty.</span></i></span></div>
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Twisted Travelholichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02774181460166133997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1884270392345490257.post-50727559269218504632012-07-11T07:52:00.003+08:002015-03-22T11:05:19.765+08:00Masked Morions of Marinduque<div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">
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<span style="font-size: small;"><i>April 5-6, 2012.</i> Marinduque is a heart-shaped island located in Luzon and home to the famed Moriones Festival. Getting there via plane takes less than an hour and getting there via RORO takes much, much longer. During Holy Week, when the Moriones festival is held, going there via the latter is a nightmare. This we experienced first hand.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Our trip started at ten o'clock in the morning, Holy Thursday. I know it's already late considering the throng of people who will be heading out of Manila to make the most of the extended holiday break. I've read so many horror stories about riding the RORO on this insane time of the year -- the exodus of people, the stampede, the more than ten hours of waiting. I have actually tried </span>to reserve a slot in the RORO but apparently, the first-come-first-served, fall-in-line even if it takes forever, is still what works there. As for the hotels, I've called like twenty of them and only one can give us a room and only because the guest cancelled at the last minute. I know, the trip is starting to sound like a disaster by the minute but we decided to be optimistic and just prepare for the worst.</div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">It was a three hour drive to Lucena Port and another three hours via RORO to Marinduque. Knowing that the best way to entertain little kids on a really long trip like this one is to keep their mouths and hands busy -- we brought snacks, packed lunch and fully-charged DS Lites and iPads. This is a killer combo and has not failed us -- so far!</span><br />
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It was our first time to ride a RORO and it must be beginner's luck that we only had to wait for two hours to board the next one. Just enough time to settle our dues and have lunch.<br />
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The ship actually did not look that big from afar, but when we got inside, we were surprised at how many they can cram inside. Mulit-wheeler trucks carrying all sorts of merchandise, buses loaded with passengers and private vehicles of all shapes and sizes are parked just inches away from each other. It was actually quite unsettling to see how they "secure" each vehicle with twisted rags (makes you pray really hard for a smooth sailing). Seeing all the vehicles and the huge crowd of passengers made me wonder for a minute if we are still within capacity. But before I start looking for the nearest life vest and rubber boat, I pushed the negative thoughts away and buried my nose in a book for the next three hours.<br />
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Finally we reached Marinduque (in one piece thank God!) and we drove directly to Boac Hotel. It was small and looked more like an ancestral home that was converted into a hotel. But nonetheless, the staff was very attentive and accommodating; the room was comfortable and homy; and there's air-condition and private bathroom. Just about everything basic we need for an overnight stay.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Our room -- cozy and comfy.</span></i></td></tr>
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So we settled in and headed to the plaza where there's a night market of some sort and a Senakulo play was being staged. My little daughter actually enjoyed it and wanted to watch some more but the rest of us are just too tired and just wanted to eat and hit the sack.<br />
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The next morning, Holy Friday, the streets of Boac were crowded with colorful but fierce-looking Moryons and a huge flock of people (mostly tourists armed with DSLRs) eagerly anticipating the Via Crucis. The Via Crucis or Way of the Cross is the reenactment of the sufferings of Christ while carrying the cross to Calvary. It is also one of the highlights of the festival and lucky for us, it passes right outside our hotel. We can actually just stay at the balcony and watch it from there but we decided to go down and be closer to the action.<br />
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It was a scorching hot day but my daughter was enjoying herself picking out which Moryon she wants to have a photo with.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4py4ggTJr430jd_ltDu0AhzNUIkdyb_hnKWbq81ZBtBHUoaoNvQsfVBDooN4rpMxAJXJlZVsnZOnRVA6I42KXEYJJtqXRVl8S1lM9tu3sxPQv5Sg-5Q8ogm_12UW5EiLCkEOq6fjWnRbO/s1600/5+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4py4ggTJr430jd_ltDu0AhzNUIkdyb_hnKWbq81ZBtBHUoaoNvQsfVBDooN4rpMxAJXJlZVsnZOnRVA6I42KXEYJJtqXRVl8S1lM9tu3sxPQv5Sg-5Q8ogm_12UW5EiLCkEOq6fjWnRbO/s640/5+copy.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i>Jesus Christ and the two thieves carrying the cross to Calvary.</i></span></td></tr>
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Next, we headed to the plaza to watch the crucifixion and the reenactment of the story of Longinus. Legend has it that Longinus, a Roman soldier, pierced Jesus on the side while He was on the cross. Blood spilled and got to Longinus' blind eye which miraculously healed it. Longinus became a believer after the incident which resulted in him being hunted by the other Roman soldiers and after being caught was beheaded (the beheading of Longinus will be staged on Easter Sunday).<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i>The crucifixion.</i></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1oTHf7ntvWXIsGuNlw6e61MWXjJCjvp5-MJxwsiIHSb4F0kB6qVSowmbZpJUr7gl-WDJ3q5ERp-ybdFKldKKhtUwMgXpJfDTWjiwAX0sUOR3H5oF_tNBZAByHUruYxYHbR6kZ4L-49eVt/s1600/20120406_IMG_7317+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1oTHf7ntvWXIsGuNlw6e61MWXjJCjvp5-MJxwsiIHSb4F0kB6qVSowmbZpJUr7gl-WDJ3q5ERp-ybdFKldKKhtUwMgXpJfDTWjiwAX0sUOR3H5oF_tNBZAByHUruYxYHbR6kZ4L-49eVt/s640/20120406_IMG_7317+copy.jpg" height="640" width="425" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px; padding-top: 4px; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i>The star of the show -- Longinus.</i></span></td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjex_vTxLRscpw1AoaUJ7_cMMtvMQL7fecGMA6vRWaWlZzUNdZJITdAlFMOzzZC2dynUvlxqglC44TJbrO7SfUqOLfByk9W9WllO-gxpGwuJMnrSBC9ftQvUpIN2oo3oShJoJQk1fobSyDv/s1600/IMG_7402.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjex_vTxLRscpw1AoaUJ7_cMMtvMQL7fecGMA6vRWaWlZzUNdZJITdAlFMOzzZC2dynUvlxqglC44TJbrO7SfUqOLfByk9W9WllO-gxpGwuJMnrSBC9ftQvUpIN2oo3oShJoJQk1fobSyDv/s640/IMG_7402.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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The whole festival was actually a little heavy for the kids but nonetheless a good way to teach them the story of Jesus.<br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">After the program, it was still a little early so we decided to tour the province. We visited one church from each town. We started in the cathedral in Boac, then off to Sta. Cruz, to Torrijos, to Buenavista (where there's also a hot spring), then lastly to Gasan (where the Moryons are giant statues), before heading back to Boac. It took us a couple of hours to do this. Would have been really nice if we had a whole day so we can see more places.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i>View from the deck in Balanacan.</i></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Vintage houses lined up the streets of Boac.</span></i></td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We spent the next three days in breathtaking Bellarocca. It was a relaxing vacation in paradise and it would have been a truly happy ending if the story ends there. Unfortunately, there's still the agony of going back to Manila via RORO and this time we weren't so lucky. It took us twelve long and excruciating hours before we were able to catch a ride back to Lucena Port. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We have probably done everything imaginable to while away the time -- eat halo-halo, peanuts, balot, chicharon (basically whatever's being peddled), upload and tag photos in Facebook, fly a sky lantern, watch a telenovela at a nearby police station, sleep under the stars on a banig, chat with the locals at how crazy the line to the RORO is each year.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The only consolation is that the ship was not as packed and we were able to get a whole bench to us so we can sleep a little comfortably. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It was quite an experience and if you ask if I'll ride the RORO again, probably yes but definitely not during Holy Week. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Some things that might help:</span></div>
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<ul>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Bring anything, everything that will help you be comfortable while waiting for twelve agonizing hours (or more!) on a vehicle. Or better yet, book a flight (if you're comfortable flying on a small aircraft, that is). As of the moment, only Zest Air flies from Manila to Marinduque.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">At the RORO, make sure your driver gets to your vehicle way before you get to your destination. When near the port, passengers tend to flock the exit areas and it'll be really hard to squeeze in. You'll be causing delay and n</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">othing sucks more than getting stuck in the ship because you have to wait for the driver of the car in front of you.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Reserve a hotel room months in advance -- even as early as January of that year. You do not want to end up sleeping in some crappy "semi-furnished" hotel with roaches and lizards as roommates and bottomed-out mattresses for beds. A few in our group got to stay at such in a desperation to get a room for the night.</span></li>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></i></div>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></i></div>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><b>The Boac Hotel</b></span></i></div>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Boac, Marinduque</span></i></div>
<div>
<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Tel: 042-3321121 / 042-3322066 / 042-3111096</span></i></div>
<div>
<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Mobile:0922-3220632</span></i></div>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Email: theboachotel@yahoo.com</span></i></div>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Website: http://theboachotel.multiply.com</span></i></div>
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Twisted Travelholichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02774181460166133997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1884270392345490257.post-86080040626900473152012-03-29T07:33:00.000+08:002015-03-22T11:04:56.618+08:00Pinatubo Trekking<div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><i>March 17 2012.</i> If bringing a 5-yr old and a 6-yr old to a two-hour grueling hike up a once-very-destructive volcano to take a swim in its crater (with depth of hundreds of meters) isn't insane enough, then I don't know what is. But hey, I'm not the twisted travelholic for nothing :)</span></div>
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<div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;">When I received the invitation from my mom to join her and her friends on this trek, I immediately said yes and informed her that I'm bringing the kids. And since logical thinking clearly runs in the family, she said no problem. She'll just hire a porter to carry the kids, in case they get tired. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b>What to wear.</b>
A knee-length comfortable pants is the best in my opinion. At least you
don't need to pull up your pants whenever you have to cross a stream,
which is quite a lot. I opted to wear my Crocs prepair which worked
really well for me since I don't like the feeling of wet socks and shoes
on my feet. A cap, pair of sunnies, and loads of sunblock are also a
must.</span></div>
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<div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>What to bring.</b>
Plenty of water that you can comfortably bring while continuously
walking for two hours. Lunch, but you can also buy at base camp (highly
recommended since they'll take care of bringing it up at the summit plus
you'll be helping local businesses). Snacks, we have kids with us so
chocolates, cookies and chips are a must. Light blanket, where you can sit and have a picnic or lie down and relax at the lake.<br />
</span></div>
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<div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;">Most people I know take the package-guided tours which
include transfers to-and-from Manila. For our group, someone arranged directly
with a 4x4 operator so we have to pay separately for the 4x4 vehicle,
the guide, environmental fee and lunch. But I still think it comes out
really cheaper compared to paying per head (we're 14 people in the
group).</span><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></div>
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<div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;">The kids were actually excited when I told them we're climbing a volcano and we're going to swim in its crater. So I had no problem when I woke them up at 3am so we can leave for Tarlac before the break of dawn. They just slept the whole ride and took they're breakfast (bought in Jollibee on our way) when we got to the base camp.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_1539177286"><span style="font-size: small;"></span></a><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=1884270392345490257" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9B7nbeNXz1DzBAXFh1_hFIPhTtvUe0wX7ADH0aHwanPku2oj1P_dGT_E31Rea52ZvwliGF9dknJb-dS0mrapd9pel1YDJgemIYNcK_U42FKRZXz54BhHoGCDDNwcWjDqCZmgi0FhAmsud/s320/01+20120317_5636b.jpg" height="310" width="320" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Carbo loading before the climb.</span></i></span></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b>The ride.</b> It was the bumpiest, dustiest and roughest ride I have ever experienced. It was an hour of lahar valleys, streams and clouds of dust. It was actually a good kind of experience, just prepare yourself for the beating your body's going to take.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrQwNSLiwJQk2PLux99SI2hOU6b0LVu-EhnzM_phdxtzpyE1ZsZMl5T4rqzD8CfpbG557TR5LVCcXibCw26IWp0NbG0sP4Y2cSl8VSFKXowNou1cU5lHerTkXsfeJI6kpflhvzTRFjcmvY/s1600/10+j+20120317_035_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrQwNSLiwJQk2PLux99SI2hOU6b0LVu-EhnzM_phdxtzpyE1ZsZMl5T4rqzD8CfpbG557TR5LVCcXibCw26IWp0NbG0sP4Y2cSl8VSFKXowNou1cU5lHerTkXsfeJI6kpflhvzTRFjcmvY/s400/10+j+20120317_035_2.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>The awesome ride. </i></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB4SPfWm3s28UamMEaVA_Q3Mq7DRq5g_0hbywT7zr7uXzhvgmyCTde71V9DPGvMvCIRV1liDAkZRkwWI_gC2Jq83YgNELzo4ONH3VoR4QR6Dt_cLuZZ2L6ysUwWMwe1ADX1gpPItqUDXdV/s1600/11+t+20120317_5669b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB4SPfWm3s28UamMEaVA_Q3Mq7DRq5g_0hbywT7zr7uXzhvgmyCTde71V9DPGvMvCIRV1liDAkZRkwWI_gC2Jq83YgNELzo4ONH3VoR4QR6Dt_cLuZZ2L6ysUwWMwe1ADX1gpPItqUDXdV/s400/11+t+20120317_5669b.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>The Toblerone Hills.</i></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b>The trek.</b> From the jump-off point, our guide said it's approximately 7 kms to the crater. The trek starts by crossing a stream and a narrow cliff. After which, it was a mixture of long endless lahar mountains, dusts, rocks and streams. Just make sure to stay close to your group so you won't get lost or take a dangerous trail. </span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhLJOA3A9gyhApSKK7vTBne5LMAB__LjMGXAZfFiHbR524IZaTRGolK4UfSAmu5LOXsx74S2aLzz_gNhsFmxCW67MnVn1L2Zoaudz8yQTXYt_DCCbN79KmtA29Es6XII-b8WeTHNc1LrN1/s1600/33.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhLJOA3A9gyhApSKK7vTBne5LMAB__LjMGXAZfFiHbR524IZaTRGolK4UfSAmu5LOXsx74S2aLzz_gNhsFmxCW67MnVn1L2Zoaudz8yQTXYt_DCCbN79KmtA29Es6XII-b8WeTHNc1LrN1/s400/33.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Our guide/porter to carry, not our bags, but our kids.</i></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8rV375H_xz6IBg_qB1VXle3CSbdL8EaSEZ_GsbCOpfpk9ua7lQmmB1DVZOOEJz1dIChnT3lir9FSglM6r-JSnfYS6eS7ksCv6-euf7EiAl0VGz0402av5Rcp6SJGjJeu9AQetsyRh2qXf/s1600/45b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8rV375H_xz6IBg_qB1VXle3CSbdL8EaSEZ_GsbCOpfpk9ua7lQmmB1DVZOOEJz1dIChnT3lir9FSglM6r-JSnfYS6eS7ksCv6-euf7EiAl0VGz0402av5Rcp6SJGjJeu9AQetsyRh2qXf/s400/45b.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Cookie Break.</span></i></span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: small;">After walking for approximately 1.5 hours, and shedding 10lbs (I wish!) we see this....</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidoBMExHiNN53QMoG2om2reh_3go_4_RXP_f-DDU4hLz9LewXDBj4IlZGzYw40avKMPKGxwv1Kjr1lPz-v-UOHeD38LVuobzl-9-fZzgzV7iipI747TOEpr2AD3egSHX8BcuWACQQ9x2Tl/s1600/50+20120317_5742+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidoBMExHiNN53QMoG2om2reh_3go_4_RXP_f-DDU4hLz9LewXDBj4IlZGzYw40avKMPKGxwv1Kjr1lPz-v-UOHeD38LVuobzl-9-fZzgzV7iipI747TOEpr2AD3egSHX8BcuWACQQ9x2Tl/s400/50+20120317_5742+copy.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">What?!? The trek is just starting?!?</span></i></span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: small;">This is what the guide was telling us earlier. Not so long ago, there's a path called the "skyway" where the 4x4 can travel an extra 15mins and cut the walking from 2 hours to 20 minutes! So the trek should officially start at this point. Unfortunately, this road has been damaged by heavy rains and seems to be irreparable. This part of the trek is mostly uphill and you're basically just following the stream up the summit. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">The sign says that middle-aged people should be able to do it in 18 minutes. Needless to say, it was a huge BS! Even the more experienced mountain climbers in our group finished slower that the "seniors" bracket. I would have to RUN it at race pace to finish under 15 minutes. Just to set your expectations, it is still a pretty long hike but very scenic nonetheless.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Finally, we were greeted with:</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmfKxx27pxC25Xnj6a4v0BE_l4YR1VBWvZWNsl8hWzXGu_yv93GohVyBdtfodD7ehP1Q1FkkmzJlffUZqF888Y9BtxuKEtARLf4oEUpFl7foyLXA5POfevSDXbJgSwOF9B17zlxlDy-RFW/s1600/20120317_5749.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmfKxx27pxC25Xnj6a4v0BE_l4YR1VBWvZWNsl8hWzXGu_yv93GohVyBdtfodD7ehP1Q1FkkmzJlffUZqF888Y9BtxuKEtARLf4oEUpFl7foyLXA5POfevSDXbJgSwOF9B17zlxlDy-RFW/s400/20120317_5749.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">A welcome message from the DENR, LGU and PDC (Pinatubo Devt. Corp).</span></i></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyxYuRnjnMdgr63ldrdUzd16upCsFb_p07MeSORyIoY4a55jTpWCZqWZF3Nc7Pa2XwErIM0kvD2g4qikUsNI5VQXv2IriGQeiiik6GVHxAptThG4vbCXWGoXjffXQ3S54E7bODRpUqF1GW/s1600/20120317_5750+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyxYuRnjnMdgr63ldrdUzd16upCsFb_p07MeSORyIoY4a55jTpWCZqWZF3Nc7Pa2XwErIM0kvD2g4qikUsNI5VQXv2IriGQeiiik6GVHxAptThG4vbCXWGoXjffXQ3S54E7bODRpUqF1GW/s400/20120317_5750+copy.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Now that's a view worth trekking for.</span></i></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: small;">We had our lunch and was so excited to go down to the crater lake and take a dip. It was another 150 or so steps on a rocky, uneven stairs and there were a number of warnings on our way down.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtPt_jXwVssyAsMSBm1_7TV59h1esoihKRLslczfBDe38Ud9apmJimIdV6IoVr9UjGdffGcsowWwJet_Df-19cEnprhMRaVScnvURQU3jTENPOHCcdNHYDP-P9KhoS-x7nLMGVYKCGXce0/s400/20120317_5818+copy.jpg" height="265" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZbGMWU_Wj3QsjKWANoXrZyU6q0VOLwCdIlyCcLQEEYiK83a0lJDKjT5wXvmiEF7vV-c020MNBeWSqCS8Kwo5Xh_DEWMT1UBi_xpHNIy8m556-nm9mVIRG7sNCAX0KOUy8_uqD04bGxXm7/s1600/20120317_5787+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZbGMWU_Wj3QsjKWANoXrZyU6q0VOLwCdIlyCcLQEEYiK83a0lJDKjT5wXvmiEF7vV-c020MNBeWSqCS8Kwo5Xh_DEWMT1UBi_xpHNIy8m556-nm9mVIRG7sNCAX0KOUy8_uqD04bGxXm7/s400/20120317_5787+copy.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Did we listen? Of course not! Haha. But seriously, extreme caution has to be exercised if you do decide to swim in the lake. Please remember that this is AN ACTIVE volcano and has already wrecked havoc a few years back and underneath is a deep abyss of deadly magma. So please, please be careful.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Moving on, the water is a deep shade of green and is so serene. I suddenly feel the urge to just sit still and admire its beauty. The sight in front of us is so breathtaking, it was actually a little hard to grasp that we are in a volcano's crater. Apparently, volcanic lakes are extremely rare because their presence requires a special balance of precipitation versus evaporation and other factors. </span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJtOYHaOJB9CCft4-jUxAn9wIUahR-veHshu7KrAHmj7rs0M1032zf88Wg88zLYqYsR3zabhVP0FF6X6ssqH_X07NB7sSZRF60Sgi894Fls2hFOb-29z4ttgrwk0v2OlFnWxUltNiNesT6/s1600/5+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJtOYHaOJB9CCft4-jUxAn9wIUahR-veHshu7KrAHmj7rs0M1032zf88Wg88zLYqYsR3zabhVP0FF6X6ssqH_X07NB7sSZRF60Sgi894Fls2hFOb-29z4ttgrwk0v2OlFnWxUltNiNesT6/s640/5+copy.jpg" height="640" width="360" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Enjoying the very cold and refreshing water.</i></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: small;">The lake is packed with bikini-clad tourists swimming and sun bathing in the shore. </span><span style="font-size: small;">There's even a boat which can take you to the other side of the lake where the water is supposedly warmer. The fee is PHP350 per head but we didn't really see the need for it since we were so content in staying still and admiring the view in front of us. The atmosphere is just so tranquil you'll absolutely love how it envelopes you with serenity. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">By around 2pm, it's time to head back to base camp. My daughter slept the entire trek while being carried. My son, on the other hand, was still in high spirits from his swim that he walked the whole 2 hours without being carried. He was so proud of his accomplishment that he proclaimed himself a "SUPER HIKER". </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">We ended our trip by feasting on old-fashioned halo-halo at base camp. Nothing beats this Filipino favorite to refresh and reward yourself.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Some things to consider:</span></div>
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<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">There is no Globe and Sun signal in the area, including at the base camp (I'm not so sure about Smart though). So if you need to be on-call 24/7 you might want to consider this before booking your trip.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">If you're planning to swim, wear your swimsuits under your clothes because there's no changing room at the crater lake. Bring floaters/life jackets for your kids and watch them very, very carefully. <span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Please check if your package includes lunch for your guide. We were already at the crater when we found out that they don't have. Good thing we packed extra food to share with them. </span></span></li>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><i>How to get there from Manila: The base camp is located in Sta. Juliana, Capas, Tarlac. Take NLEX and exit at Sta. Ines. Go straight and turn right at the fork. Go straight then make a left at the welcome arc of Brgy. Sto. Rosario. Just follow the road and make a right at the end. You'll pass a checkpoint and shortly after is the base camp. Approximately 2-3 hours land travel.</i></span><br />
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Twisted Travelholichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02774181460166133997noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1884270392345490257.post-41927713210811578442012-03-22T19:19:00.000+08:002015-03-01T16:47:14.951+08:00Schengen Visa Application<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Travelling to Europe is probably in most people's bucket list and the good news is that when you travel to one or more of the 25 member states of the Schengen Agreement, you only need one visa. Come to think of it, the more countries you visit, the cheaper the visa fee per country will equate to. Now, that's something worth considering right? :)</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">The following countries are members of the Schengen Agreement: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">The rule is, you apply at the embassy of whichever country you're staying the longest. Or in case of equal stays, apply at the embassy of your first port of entry.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">For our trip this summer, me and my two kids will need to apply at the <a href="http://www.ambafrance-ph.org/Visas,1261" target="_blank">French Embassy Manila.</a> Fortunately, the requirements are pretty much the same as the UK embassy (including the photo specifications) and the only thing we need to add is a travel insurance.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">The procedure is pretty much the same as well -- you schedule an appointment to submit your application, payment and biometric data then come back to get your visa (there's no option of having your passport couriered to you).</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><b>Schedule an appointment</b>. In our case, we just need to send an email to </span><a class="spip_mail" href="mailto:visa.ambafrance.manille@gmail.com" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">visa.ambafrance.manille@gmail.com</a><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">. It was a very efficient process as it only takes them a day or two, at most, to respond. But effective April 10, 2012, appointments for visa applications will need to be scheduled by calling a premium hotline. This is actually sad as I find the current process simple, efficient and best of all free. I wish they just implemented an online booking system where you pay a fixed rate using your credit card. I'm not really a fan of calling premium numbers as I feel that the CSRs are deliberately trying to prolong the conversation to jack up the fees. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><b>Prepare your documents</b>. A complete list of requirements can be downloaded <a href="http://www.ambafrance-ph.org/IMG/pdf/C_TOURIST_AFFAIRES_EN.pdf" target="_blank">here.</a> You will need to print a blank <a href="http://www.ambafrance-ph.org/IMG/pdf/Formulaire_SCH_eng.pdf" target="_blank">application form</a> and fill it out manually. </span></span></div>
<ul style="text-align: justify;">
<li><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Cover letter - addressed to THE HONORABLE CONSUL, EMBASSY OF FRANCE. Explain the purpose of your trip and include a summary of your itinerary.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Trip details - Hotel vouchers, airline reservation, detailed itinerary</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Proof of employment or business - Certificate of employment (original copy) or business registration for the current and previous years (photocopy).</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Proof of income - ITR, photocopy of last 3 months bank statement/passbook</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Proof of Identity - NSO birth certificate and NSO marriage certificate, when applicable.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Travel insurance - should cover the whole duration of the trip and valid for all Schengen states. You can download a list of accredited insurance companies <a href="http://www.ambafrance-ph.org/IMG/doc/Assurances_contacts_site_internet-2.doc" target="_blank">here</a>. </span></span></li>
</ul>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Make sure to submit photocopies of important documents (such as business registration) as the French embassy will not return them to you. Just bring the original copies in case they look for it. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><b>Payment</b>. You will need to pay in cash, in Philippine peso on the day of your appointment. Current visa fee is EUR60 (PHP3430) for adults, EUR35 (PHP2000) for kids 6-11 years old and FREE for kids 5 and below. Rates may vary depending on the conversion rate for the day. </span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Bring lots of change (20s and 50s) as the embassy only accepts exact payment and no coins.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">The French Embassy is located at the Pacific Star Building in Makati. Our appointment is at 8:30am and when we arrived, there are already applicants who are already done (they start processing applications at 8am). They have a package counter where you can leave your cellphone.</span></span></div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">When your number is called, you will need to submit only the following: passport, itinerary, hotel reservation, airline reservation and exact payment. After which, you will need to wait for your turn to be interviewed.</span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">During the interview, you will need to submit your documents in the exact order written in the guideline. They are very, very, very particular about this so please make sure you arrange your documents properly. It was a quick interview, after which they took our photo and my biometric data. I was given a receipt indicating the date and time we should come back to know the results. The date was 7 working days after our interview. Since we did not apply through a travel agent, they returned our passports. I was also informed that there's no need for the kids to be present during the pick-up date.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">There are a number of applicants at the Embassy that time but the process is pretty quick. We finished with a lot of time to spare so I can bring the kids to school.</span></span></div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">On our scheduled pick-up date, I went alone with all our passports and receipts. Our pick-up time is at 11:00am and when I got to the embassy there are a lot of people inside. Some of them applicants waiting for their turns to be interviewed and most of them returning applicants like me waiting for the results. You will need to give your passport to the person in window 1 and wait. They'll finish all applicants for interview first before they start distributing passports. It was a short wait until my turn and I was handed our passports with our Schengen visas! Upon receiving our passports, I thanked the Consul, left and breathed a deep sigh of relief. </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Finally, after two mentally agonizing, not to mention bank breaking visa applications, we can officially get psyched for our trip to Europe! </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Just a few notes you might find helpful:</span></span></div>
<ul style="text-align: justify;">
<li><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Appointments can sometimes take as far as 2 months from the time of booking so plan your travels. Remember though, that you can only send a request 3 months at the earliest prior to your departure date.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Make sure you follow the rule on which embassy to apply. It has to be at the embassy of the country you are staying the longest or in case of equal, stays, the first port of entry.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Visa validity. You can only stay at the Schengen area up to the validity of your visa. So even if you are usually allowed to stay for 30 days but you arrived 5 days prior to your visa expiration, you will have to leave before your visa expires.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">The photo they'll use in your visa is the one they'll be taking at the embassy, not the one you'll submit. So try to look pretty and fresh while waiting for your turn. I hadn't realized how sunburned we are from a recent trip until I saw our pictures. </span></span></li>
</ul>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgVGrSjqLmQrN7s2xhO8KKDQH6rRRVvWV7H3oe_RXLD-t20LxLyES8L9KZbu0i_N3oMtBoyFOC_3TFbadXG-cT1-R8UlNKwTt6243T7Fb3WWrMGd4kmTOm1nW9htIPCj-aAAhSPJufBZNf/s1600/Schengen-709.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgVGrSjqLmQrN7s2xhO8KKDQH6rRRVvWV7H3oe_RXLD-t20LxLyES8L9KZbu0i_N3oMtBoyFOC_3TFbadXG-cT1-R8UlNKwTt6243T7Fb3WWrMGd4kmTOm1nW9htIPCj-aAAhSPJufBZNf/s400/Schengen-709.jpg" height="268" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At first, I wasn't really sure if it was my daughter on the picture or her shadow! Haha! </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<b><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><i>French Embassy Manila</i></span></b></div>
<div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><i>Office Hours: 8:00am to 12:00nn </i></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><i>16/F Pacific Star Bldg. </i></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><i>Buendia cor. Makati Ave.,</i></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><i>Makati City </i></span></div>
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Twisted Travelholichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02774181460166133997noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1884270392345490257.post-40100938596393848182012-03-04T13:43:00.000+08:002012-03-04T13:43:21.325+08:00Bechay's First Giveaway Contest<div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;">Bechay just reached 100 followers and to celebrate this milestone, she's giving away some cool prizes. Mechanics are simple and everybody's invited to join. Read more about it here -- <a href="ttp://www.pinkyjhaney.com/2012/03/bechays-first-giveaway-contest.html%20" target="_blank">Straight from Bechay.</a></span> </div>
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<br />Twisted Travelholichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02774181460166133997noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1884270392345490257.post-48385915753530622652012-02-28T13:49:00.001+08:002015-03-01T16:47:01.827+08:00UK Visa Application<div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;">If there's one drawback to being a Filipino -- it's the agonizing ordeal of having to apply for a visa when you want to visit countries outside of Southeast Asia. In preparation for our summer trip, me and my two kids have to apply for a UK visa and a Schengen visa (I'll discuss this one later in another post). I experienced applying for visas on several occasions and it never gets easy. Each one is as nerve-wracking, if not worse, than the previous.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;">I decided to apply to the British embassy first. <a href="http://www.vfs-uk-ph.com/vfsglobalintroduction.html" target="_blank">VFS Global Phils.</a> manages the visa application center for the <a href="http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/countries/philippines/?langname=UK%20English" target="_blank">UK Border Agency</a> here in the Philippines. Their office is at the 6th Flr Eco Plaza Bldg., 606 Pasong Tamo Ext., Makati City. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;">The procedure is pretty straightforward -- fill out the application form online and schedule an appointment. On your appointment, you just need to submit your application, supporting documents, payment and biometric data.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b><a href="http://www.visa4uk.fco.gov.uk/ApplyNow.aspx" target="_blank">ONLINE APPLICATION FORM</a></b>.
Be ready with your passport, itinerary and hotel details. If you can't finish answering it in one sitting, you can always save it
and continue at a later time. Just take note of your application
reference number. A guide to answering the online application form can be found <a href="http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/sitecontent/applicationforms/visas/vaf1-guidance.pdf" target="_blank">here</a>. If there are still questions you're not sure how to answer, you can send VFS an email. Better be safe than sorry. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>BOOK AN APPOINTMENT</b>. You can do so by calling a premium hotline (really steep rates!) or by doing it <a href="https://www.vfs.firm.in/pl-apptsystem/appscheduling/appwelcome.aspx" target="_blank">online</a>. Scheduling an appointment online is pretty easy and schedules are aplenty. When I booked mine, available appointment dates are just less than a week away. I'm not sure though if this is always the case, so it's still best to plan your travels ahead. Be ready with your passport number when booking an appointment.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b>SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS</b>. You must be able to show that: 1. you intend to visit the UK for not more than 6 months, 2. you have enough money to support yourself and 3. you intend to leave the UK at the end of your visit. Your supporting documents should provide information about you, your finances and employment and your travel details to the UK. You can download the supporting documents guideline <a href="http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/sitecontent/documents/out-of-country/visitors.pdf" target="_blank">here.</a> You are free to include any other document even though not listed in the guideline if you feel that it will help you prove that you meet the criteria mentioned. Prepare photocopies of your original documents and a checklist of documents submitted. You can get the checklist at the VFS office during your appointment or you can request for an advance copy via the VFS helpline email -- <a class="purplelink" href="mailto:info.ukph@vfshelpline.com">info.ukph@vfshelpline.com. </a></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>VISA FEE</b>. There are a number of ways to pay for your visa fee. The most convenient for me is to purchase a Manager's Check payable to the British Embassy. Visa fee is PHP5472 for each applicant. If you're applying with your kids (like in my case), you can just purchase one MC reflecting the total visa fee for all applicants.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Our appointment is on a Tuesday and there's quite a number of applicants at the VFS office. Waiting time wasn't that long though and the staff who processed our application and captured our biometric information were all very polite and very patient. Especially when my little girl decided to throw a tantrum and refuse to open her eyes when it was her turn to be photographed! The drama started when there was a fight on who will go first during the biometric capturing. See, even kids has to go inside the room unaccompanied. It was bad enough for my daughter that kuya has to go first, but when I was called inside to help, she was left alone and that ticked her off. She wouldn't stop bawling and since I can't exactly get mad at her (at least not in front of everyone), my little angel decided to throw a tantrum of epic proportions and cause a delay. It still escapes me how we were able to get her photo that day. Our appointment was at 9:00 am and we finish in time for me to bring my daughter to her school in Makati and my son to his school in Katipunan before 12:00nn. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">We availed of the SMS/email tracking service (PHP110 per applicant) and that same afternoon, I got an update that our application is being sent to the British Embassy. Ok, now time to cross our fingers and pray really hard.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">The next day, Wednesday, I got an email from UKBA-Manila Visa Hub that our visas will be dispatched shortly and that our passports can be collected from the Visa Application Center in 3 days!!! Wow, I still can't get over how fast and painless it was. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Thursday, I got an SMS from VFS that a decision has been made regarding my application and that I can pick up my documents the next day, Friday, from 2:00-3:00pm. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>PICK-UP</b>. On your pick-up date, bring your receipt and 2 valid IDs (one for the lobby guard and one to show at the VFS office). For those who cannot personally pick-up their documents, you can send a representative along with an <a href="http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/sitecontent/documents/countries/vfs-authorisation.pdf" target="_blank">authorization letter</a>, your receipt and his 2 valid IDs. Document pick-up is a breeze as it took only a few minutes. The British Embassy is by far the most efficient I've experienced in terms of visa processing. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;">For queries regarding visa application, you can email VFS at info.ukph@vfshelpline.com. When you email them, you'll get an auto-reply message that says it takes 5 working days for them to respond. But in several occasions that I have to email them, it usually just takes them the next working day to respond. Talk about being really efficient :)</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Just a few things you might find helpful:</span><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-size: small;">You will only be allowed to bring your wallet, a ballpen and your documents inside. You can leave your bag/cellphone at their package counter.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;">Bring extra cash if you want to avail of their SMS/email tracking service or if you want to have your documents couriered back to you. </span></li>
</ul>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjawAdaclio40EPaHH-8QZd6H_kpgxXPvB-okEqGibCLdxkALIdwtgFGwpbV02k1Wkqz1uZ5eM6GslDVD6GuQvkniqDDkGsmCxH6cTRVrUUpMjZ0jMHsd8huAdchB3qTzy9RAOFUJgEjFZF/s1600/UK+Visa+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjawAdaclio40EPaHH-8QZd6H_kpgxXPvB-okEqGibCLdxkALIdwtgFGwpbV02k1Wkqz1uZ5eM6GslDVD6GuQvkniqDDkGsmCxH6cTRVrUUpMjZ0jMHsd8huAdchB3qTzy9RAOFUJgEjFZF/s1600/UK+Visa+copy.jpg" height="294" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Luckily, they use the picture we submitted with the application and not the photo they took at the VFS office.</span></td></tr>
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<b><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>VFS Global Philippines</i></span></b></div>
<div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Operating Hours: </i></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><b>Application submission - with a prior appointment:</b>
<br />Monday-Friday 08:00 - 14:00<br /><b>Application submission - without a prior appointment:</b></i>
<i><br />
Monday-Friday 07:00 - 08:00<br /><b>Inquiries at visa application centre</b></i>
<i><br />
Monday-Friday 13:00 - 15:00 </i></span></div>
Twisted Travelholichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02774181460166133997noreply@blogger.com16