Beijing - Last Day

     It's our last day in Beijing, and for now, I'll leave a photo that I took at the Temple of Heaven.

  

Beijing - Panda Humping

     Good morning!  Still here in Beijing, just woke up.  We'll be visiting the Old Summer Palace today.  And I will leave a picture of some pandas who seem to be humping while I'm out for the day.  This was taken at the Beijing Zoo's panda section the other day.  We were lucky enough to see them running, playing and climbing in their playground.

     Till then!

Ni hao! I'm in Beijing!

     Finally, there's a free internet connection!  I'm blogging from Beijing, China, as to how, I'll tell you later.  I was even able to make my friend log in with her Facebook account.  

     Anyway, we just checked-in at our second hotel for our 6D5N trip, at Hotel Kapok in Wangfujing.  It's smaller than our room at the Marriott Courtyard, but it's quieter, more serene, and there's free internet.  That matters a lot.

     We'll be going to the Bird's Nest and the Water Cube later, and then we'll go shopping in Wangfujing.  I'll update later when we get back to the hotel.  I'll post some pictures, too.

Thoughts: Approved Visa to China

     Finally, I got word from my travel agent that my visa to China has been approved, for 30 days! Yay!  It'll be delivered to me later.  I can finally go to China.  I'll be leaving the country tomorrow and will arrive in Beijing past midnight, 24 November 2010.

     See, I'm so happy considering that my visa was applied for just last week.  Certain circumstances led to the late filing of my visa but all's well.  And I got a 30-day visa at that.  See, I could even stay longer than I wanted in China, not that I'm planning to do so.  Well, who knows if some guy falls madly in love with me and begs me to stay longer.  Not that it'll happen, or that I'll allow that to happen.  But still...it's the thought that I could choose to maximize my stay that counts, right? 

     I don't know if I could blog in China; perhaps not.  I'm sure that there's no Facebook access, but I don't have a Facebook account so it doesn't matter.  So, probably, you'll hear from me when I return back on the 29th.

     Wish me luck!

PAL's Christmas Wish List Promo

N.B. From PAL's website:

Christmas Wish List Promo Grab our special fares and spend bonding time with family and friends!

Selling Period: 22 November to 01 December 2010
Travelling Period:  
 Melbourne/Sydney - 01 to 23 March 2011 and 22-23 April 2011
 Other destinations - 16 January to 23 March 2011 and 22-23 April 2011
Book and buy through www.philippineairlines.com using MasterCard or VISA credit card or BancNet ATM card. Or, purchase tickets at any PAL ticket office or your travel agency.

You may also call PAL Reservations Manila (02) 855-8888, Cebu (032) 340-0191, Davao (082) 221-5513.

From MANILA	Round-Trip Base Fare in USD	Surcharges (YQ)	Est. Taxes	Total (Fare+ YQ+ Taxes) in USD
Minimum/Maximum days:   Australia – No mininum stay requirement/3 months stay  China/Japan - 2 days/14 days  Other destinations - 2 days/8 days Fare Family: Fiesta Deal Fare Basis: WSALE/USALE
Bangkok	34.00	96.00	23.40	153.40
	64.00			183.40
Beijing	138.00	100.00	13.50	251.50
Fukuoka	280.00	90.00	11.40	381.40
Hong Kong	32.00*	50.00	15.50	97.50
	62.00*			127.50
Ho Chi Minh (Saigon)	38.00	80.00	18.00	136.00
Jakarta	38.00	100.00	0	138.00
Macau	48.00	50.00	13.80	111.80
Melbourne	360.00	230.00	77.50	667.50
Nagoya	280.00	90.00	30.10	400.10
Osaka	230.00	90.00	31.90	351.90
Shanghai	98.00	100.00	13.50	211.50
Singapore	68.00	70.00	21.50	159.50
	88.00			179.50
Sydney	360.00	230.00	96.60	686.60
From CEBU	Round-Trip Base Fare in USD	Surcharges (YQ)	Est. Taxes	Total (Fare+ YQ+ Taxes) in USD
Minimum/Maximum days: 2 days/14 days  Fare Family: Fiesta Deal Fare Basis: USALE
Narita (Tokyo)	280.00	90.00	30.50	400.50

 

*Inclusive of HKG security surcharge
Notes: 

-Total Fares are INCLUSIVE of surcharges and estimated taxes. Philippine Travel tax, other airport fees and charges are not included. 
-Fare amounts are subject to change due to conversion rates. 

 

Fare Conditions:

• Valid for sales in the Philippines and the internet only
• Valid on Fiesta (Economy) class 
• Fare and surcharges are non-refundable
• Day/Time Restriction
  Bangkok/Hong Kong/Jakarta/Macau/Saigon/Singapore/Taipei - valid from Sunday to Wednesday (outbound travel) 
  China/Japan/Australia - valid on any day of the week
• Changes
  Australia - Change fee USD100 
  Other regional points - Change fee USD75
• No child discount/Infant without Seat is 20% of adult fare
• Free Baggage Allowance:
  Manila to Melbourne/Sydney - 23 kilograms
  All other destinations - 15 kilograms 
• 25% mileage accrual applies
• Upgrade Travel Certificate and service class upgrade are not permitted
• Limited seats
• Other fare conditions apply

Air Asia: To Paris, With Love [Seat Sale from 22 November to 24 November 2010]

Update: 22 November 2010; 7:10 am

     I did a mock-booking for 05 May 2011 to 10 May 2011 and the total roundtrip  tickers cost RMB 1226.00, or less than Php 18,000.00.  That's a huge savings! Makes me want to book for real.  For tennis fans, this is the opportunity to watch Rafa Nadal in action (wedgie and all) at Roland Garros.

      Air Asia X is finally offering flights from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, to Paris, France!  And I just couldn't contain my excitement!  Maiden flight will be on Valentine's Day, 2011, and seats will go on sale on 22 November 2010 at 7:00 a.m. (GMT +8) until 24 November 2010.  Travel Period is from 14 November to 10 November 2010.  All I know is that I'm having visions of the Eiffel Tower and of the Louvre Museum right now.  Gosh, this is my chance!

   From Air Asia's Facebook Page:

Eifel Tower, Mona Lisa, Louis Vuitton, Louvre Museum, Notre Dame de Paris and the list goes on and on. Yes, we know you’ve been waiting for this exciting news! It’s official! AAX will be flying to city of love - Paris in February 2011!

To mark AAX’s second European destination, we are offering one-way fare with tax from RM499! (From Kuala Lumpur - Paris).

Please note that the timing for opening sales will be different this time – it will start from 07:00hrs (GMT+8, Malaysia) and 00:00hrs (GMT+1, Paris), 22 to 24 November 2010.

So prepare your coffee and baguette and get ready for 22nd November 2010!

     Happy trip planning!

Thoughts: Philippine Tourism's Slogan - Pilipinas, Kay Ganda

     In the past days, news of the Department of Tourism's (DOT) new slogan for attracting tourists into the country quickly spread.  Apparently, the DOT's replacement for Dick Gordon's WOW Philippines is Pilipinas, Kay Ganda.  What was that again?  Ehh...

     Personally, I prefer the old slogan, WOW Philippines.  It's catchy, it's easy to understand not just by Filipinos but by other nationalities as well since it's in (very basic) English. But the new DOT Secretary's pet slogan is Pilipinas, Kay Ganda.  Not only it is in the vernacular, and thus limited in its scope, but it also sounds so, so...Ricky Reyes' Hair Salon: Gandang Ricky Reyes.  It has no bite, and even if the slogan provides a pronunciation guide and a definition of what kay ganda means, tourists are more likely to be confused than be curious with the slogan.  They'll be like, what was that again?

     Well, a slogan in the vernacular is great if it's geared for attracting local tourists since we could all understand it.  Foreigners, on the other hand, will likely have a difficult time  remembering and saying our slogan.  And I guess that's the common sentiment in the country considering that the DOT is now saying that Pilipinas Kay Ganda is not yet set in stone; it's just a preview.  Say what?  The DOT releases an unfinished and incomplete idea to the public?  Why is that?  Unless they're ashamed of their own idea.  But who are they kidding?  They already launched the slogan.  Well, at least the DOT is willing to (appear to) listen  to the people: the new slogan's really, meh.  But really, they even pulled out their new website if only to placate the tirades hurled against the DOT.

     See, Malaysia has "Malaysia, Truly Asia" and I love their slogan.  It rhymes perfectly when spoken, and the idea that Malaysia is really and truly representative of Asia is well-thought of.  It's like, "What can be more Asia than Malaysia?  Malaysia, Truly Asia."  See.  Very Nice.  Makes me want to go to Malaysia.  Then Taiwan, our close neighbor, has "Taiwan, Touch Your Heart."  And you know what, when I went to Taiwan, I really felt the warmth of its people; it really touched my heart.  Thailand has "Amazing Thailand." Short, simple, easy to understand, and very easy to remember.  Vietnam has "Vietnam: The Hidden Charm."  It makes me want to there and explore Vietnam's hidden charm. 

     Indeed, the Philippines is a beautiful country, but the slogan's better off said in English so that more people from other nations could easily understand it.  And the goal of the tourism department is to entice not only local tourists but likewise foreign tourists.

Manila Chronicles: Greenhills Shopping Center's Christmas Display

 
     Last Sunday, my relatives and I went to the Greenhills Shopping Center in San Juan City, NCR, to see their Christmas Display.  It was set-up on top of the roof of the walkway going to the center of the mall, and it was made possible in cooperation with COD.  During the olden times, when I was a kid, COD, a department store in Cubao, had an annual Christmas moving and lighted display on their building and people flock to the mall to watch the display come to life.  Now, they showcase their display at the Greenhills Shopping Center.

     When we went to Greenhills, there were already a lot of people to see the display, especially since it just opened the other day on Friday, and it was its first weekend.  Also, the slew of people was concentrated  at the tiangge area (open-market stalls) in front of the display.  It was hot and humid but the little child in me wanted to see the display so a little patience was in order.

     The display was simple; it runs every 30 minutes from 6:30 pm until closing time, around 11 pm if I recall correctly.  There's a Santa's factory, a house with a chimney, a Christmas village, Frosty the Snowman, and of course, Santa and his reindeers.  While the life-sized mannequins were doing their dancing and prancing, their walking in the winter wonderland, or dancing on the snow, or heralding the birth of Jesus, appropriate Christmas songs to the scenes portrayed by the mannequins were being played.  It's a treat for the kids, and a lovely moment to reminisce those golden days when the show was still played at COD.

     Before I forget, I had been to Makati for a drive to see their Christmas display and lights two weeks ago but it wasn't fully finished yet.  I'll go back to Makati this weekend to view it again, particularly at the Ayala Triangle Park where there's a symphony of lights show from 6 pm to 8 pm, Mondays to Fridays.  I'll post it on Sunday or on Monday.

Thoughts: My Travel Essentials

     

     I admit, I'm a very lousy and sloppy person.  I am not organized with my things; in fact, my desk looks as if disaster struck.  And my inability to be orderly reflects how I pack my travel suitcase.  Yup, I am a pack-rat to be honest.

     I know, I know.  Packing my whole house in a suitcase is not the ideal way to travel.  Who wants to lug around heavy luggage?  That is why I'm trying to change for the better.  During my last 3 trips abroad this year, I packed light.  I swear.  I brought just enough clothes and only 2 extra blouses/shirts. I used to pack a change of clothing to last for the whole week even if I'll only be traveling for three days.  But now I've seen the light: the extra space on my luggage would mean more space for souvenirs and goods. Haha.

     Seriously, I've traveled to foreign countries a few times already (and a lot of domestic flights), so I know what and what not to pack.  But then again, I'm kinda weird, so, my list may not be suitable for everyone. Here's my list of travel essentials:

      1.  Make-up and Hair Iron

           This is not all vanity, you know.  Remember that while Filipinos get by wearing with little or no make up at all, that isn't so in other countries.  It's actually polite to wear make-up, especially in East Asia.  Making yourself look presentable, even while visiting tourists spots, is always a good thing.  And, who knows, I might get to meet a guy or two.  Heehee.  As for the hair iron?  I could use it to curl my hair or to tame my voluminous tresses.  First impressions really last, and I don't want to leave an impression with my disheveled hair, patchy skin or dry lips.

     2.  Sunscreen/sunblock [SPF], Moisturizer, Lip balm and my own Toiletry set

         These are a must here in the tropics and they're a must elsewhere.  Staying too long under the sun?  Or outdoors in a blistering cold?  Remember that sunscreen, moisturizer and lip balm are all-seasons essentials and not only for summers.  These are great for winter as well as cold winds dry-out the skin. Also, UV rays are as damaging in winter as in summer.

        Even if hotels provide toiletry items, I still bring my own, especially shampoo, toothbrush, toothpaste and so on.  I put them on a small, compact case, something that would fit inside my purse.  And I never forget to bring facial tissues, cotton balls, cotton buds and wet wipes, too.

     3.  Cardigan, pashmina wrap or a light jacket

         Even if I'm going to Bangkok or Singapore, I still bring with me either of these three.  You'll never know when it'll get a little cold, and it's usually cold at the airport and inside the plane.   Personally, I really  prefer a pashmina. I could use it as a wrap when it gets cold, as an accessory, or as a blanket, too.  And it is so convenient to carry around.

     3.  Book or manga

         I never fail to bring with me a book or two or some of my manga.  However, reading a manga can last no longer than half an hour, snail pace at that.  So, I just bring one manga volume with me, and a paperback.  But really, it consumes space, so I'm thinking of buying a Kindle.

     4.  Laptop

         I know, I know.  If I want to travel light, I should leave my laptop at home.  But see, I always bring it with me whichever country I go.  I should opt to have a netbook or perhaps an iPad if I want to bring a computer with me, right? But, I've adapted so well traveling with a laptop when I was working in a different city last year, shuffling to and from airports.  I don't find it a liability anymore, just a part of my life.  However, what is the use of a laptop if there's no wi-fi?  Hmm.  Nonetheless, I plan to carry my new laptop to China.

      5.  Cellular phone, camera and their chargers plus adapter

           You see, if I have a phone, I can access the internet especially if there is wi-fi.  But I just carry my phone just to placate my mother's sentiments that I am all right, that I'd tell her that I'm not lost, or having a hard time or in trouble.  Or if the boss needs to ask about work  Besides, my phone, has a Google maps application, so it's handy when I roam around (yup, I just leave my laptop at the hotel).

         Of course, what it the use of traveling if you don't have with you a camera.  It does not need to be a fancy dslr, just a simple point and shoot will do.  And don't forget the chargers and extra batteries for your gadgets, and before you zip up your suitcase, research first the the type of pin and the voltage used in the place you'll go to.  In the Philippines, we use the 2-pin socket, just like in the US but in Singapore and Hong Kong, they have three-pronged pins.  I carry with me an adapter whenever I go there, in case the hotel doesn't provide one or if I have to use all sockets at one time.

     6.  Medicines

         Even if it's just mefenamic acid, or loperamide, better bring your own. It's difficult to find the brand that you're used to.  If it's prescription, it is all the more important to bring your own medicines.

     7.  Insect and Mosquito repellent, and Umbrella

          We live in the tropics, so I'm used to having a mosquito repellent handy.  Whenever I go to another country, I use one; you'll never know what bug will bite you.  And you'll find an umbrella, a folding one, very useful.  Protect yourself from the sun's rays, from the rain or snow.  Use an umbrella.  A very cute umbrella would make bringing an umbrella tolerable.

     8.  Credit cards, Cash and Travel Insurance

          I bring just enough cash with me; just around USD 400 to 500 (around Php 17,000+ to 21,000 Php) per travel in an Asian country.  After all, our flights, hotels and ground arrangements are all pre-paid.  But I don't spend it all.  That's a lot of money, at least for me, especially if I'll only be staying for 3D2N.  I bring credit cards for emergency purposes.  There might be instances when flights gets canceled, or when I fail to reach the airport on time for my departure, or when I decide to stay an extra day or two.  At least, I'll be sufficiently funded to buy another ticket home, or to book another hotel.

          And, don't forget to buy a travel insurance; it's always better to be on the safe side.  In fact, never travel without one.

     9.  Shopping bag [cloth or nylon]

         I always bring with me those convertible shopping bag, the ones that can be folded.  I could always stash my souvenirs and goodies in there when I go shopping; I could put an extra bottle of water in there, or an extra piece of shirt.  If I can't fit my belongings and souvenirs into my suitcase, I'll just have to put the excess inside the shopping bag and hand-carry it inside the airplane.

     10.  Notebook and Pen

          Come on, you should always bring a pen and notebook, or paper (those stick notes are good, too), with you anywhere you go.  And you need this most specially when you're out traveling.  You need to fill up departure and arrival cards; you can write down important information on your notebook; the name of a place, a restaurant, phone number of someone you met...there you go.

    So, this is my travel must-have list, and if you'll notice, these could easily fit into my purse, as  hand-carry, of course, except for the laptop and the hair iron.  Just make sure that there's nothing that exceeds the size and volume restrictions for liquid-based items (sunblock, for example).  

     I hope you find some useful tidbits for your travel planning.

Thoughts: Visa Application to China

     I still don't have a visa to China, and I am supposed to leave on the 23rd of November.  I have submitted my requirements already, though.  However, there is this probability that my application might be denied; apparently, the embassy's so strict in processing visas.  And if that happens, I will bid adieu to my plane tickets (no refund; bought them on sale), and to the fees I paid for visa processing, including agency fees.

     I earnestly hope that I get a visa; after all, I'm not an undesirable alien with no money to spend.  Neither do I have an intention to work in China as an illegal alien. I have complete documents, and I have been to China just last September, though on a group visa to Shenzhen.  Besides, I already bought some autumn/winter clothing already.  So, I'm really really hoping that I'd get a visa.

     I'm crossing my fingers for luck!  Wishing for all the best!

Air Asia X Low Fare Sale [Except Japan] on Sale Starting Today at 12 NN

     Remember Air Asia's teaser last week with the United Nations Day inspired promo?  Well, here it is, and the sale will commence at 12:00 noon, from 15 November to 17 November.  So, flex your fingers and be ready to grab seats to Air Asia X's route; except for Japan.  

     Happy travel planning!

N.B. From Air Asia's Facebook page:

Good Morning Monday! Today will be a great day because AirAsiaX low fare is back! All AirAsiaX Routes will be on sales (Except for Japan as we are cooking up something special to be announced in conjunction with our Inaugural flight on 9th December). The sale will begin by 12 noon later so make sure you login to http://www.airasia.com/ sharp to grab the low fare!

Australia from RM149/ RM199
China from RM129
Taiwan from RM169
UK from RM499
India from RM49
Korea from RM199

All the above are quoted for One-way fare with taxes. :)

Booking Period: 15 (12pm) -17 Nov 2010
Travel Period: 1 July - 11 Nov 2011

Website: http://www.airasia.com/
Mobile: http://mobile.airasia.com/

Add a caption

Good Morning Monday! Today will be a great day because AirAsiaX low fare is back! All AirAsiaX Routes will be on sales (Except for Japan as we are cooking up something special to be announced in conjunction with our Inaugural flight on 9th December). The sale will begin by 12 noon later so make sure you login to http://www.airasia.com sharp to grab the low fare! Australia from RM149/ RM199 China from RM129 Taiwan from RM169 UK from RM499 India from RM49 Korea from RM199 All the above are quoted for One-way fare with taxes. :) Booking Period: 15 (12pm) -17 Nov 2010 Travel Period: 1 July - 11 Nov 2011 Website: http://www.airasia.com Mobile: http://mobile.airasia.com

History Channel's Hidden Cities - Taiwan [Unable to Live-blog]

     I was not able to live-blog the episode; I fell asleep early, way too early!  Argh!  I'm sorry. I'll watch it this coming days and replay-blog it.

     And I was so looking forward to watch the show!

Baguio Adventure: Day 1 - The Manor at Camp John Hay, SM Baguio and Cafe by the Ruins [May 2010]

     We went to Baguio last May.  Suffice it to say that it was work-related, although it was more like a yearly Baguio vacation than work.  Still, our presence was required; we just needed to make sure that we're seen and afterward, we're off to enjoy Baguio on our own.

     For accommodation, we were billeted at the Manor in Camp John Hay because nobody wanted to stay at the old, service house that was provided for us.  For one, it was creepy.  Who knows if ghosts abound.  Ha!  Anyway, it was my second time to stay at the Manor and I was glad to see that it was undergoing a face lift and that the garden at the back was revamped. Besides, if I wanted to "scout" for ghosts, then I'd better do it in style. Heh.  The downside to staying at the Manor, aside from the cost, is its seclusion.  If you don't have a car, then good luck to you.  The good thing?  The Manor promises both rest, relaxation and community with nature.  Plus, if you know how to play golf, you're in luck.  There's a golf course at Camp John Hay.

     Looking back, I realized that we hardly did anything on our first day in Baguio.  We spent the morning resting because we were tired from the four or so hours trip up north.  We had lunch a restaurant a few steps from the Manor, and then we rested, again.  Yup, that happens when you're traveling with a large group.  You end up resting over and over again.

     We had nothing else to do so we decided to go to SM Baguio.  How weird is that?  It's not a tourist spot but we went there.  Funny, really.  That's what happens when girls travel together: they end up in the malls.

     Good thing that one of our peers suggested that we go to a coffee shop called Cafe by the Ruins.  We didn't know where it was, only that it was near Burnham Park but we asked some locals around, including some officers in uniform, for directions. By the time we found the Cafe, it was already dark.  I didn't buy anything from there but I just took pictures inside.  It was quaint, sort of like a cafe with an enclosed outdoor dining area.  According to my companions, the pastries they bought were delicious.  

     Of course, we had to end our day early because we had nothing else to do.  I managed to get out of our room and take pictures at the Manor's back garden.  It was really beautiful and enchanting at night.  It was nice to walk around the garden at night while wistfully hoping for some cute guy to keep me company.  Lol!

Our room:

Manila Chronicles: Driving to and From Tagaytay at Night

 

      Tagaytay is a city some 1 to 1 1/2 hours away from Manila.  It is on an elevation so it's cold in Tagaytay.  There are always mists and fogs,  and it's really beautiful as it overlooks the famous Taal Lake and Taal Volcano.  The volcano, an active one, as you may know, is reputedly the world's smallest volcano: a volcano on a lake within volcano with a lake.  Or, the Taal Lake as the largest lake within an island in a lake on an island.  Phew!  Did I get that right?

     Anyway, a week ago, my cousins with my nieces and nephews went for a drive going to Tagaytay.  We took my cousin's old Isuzu pick-up because my 7 yr old nephew wanted to ride at the back of the truck; he was accompanied by her mother and my other nephew while and I stayed inside the pick-up with my sister and nieces.

     Considering that my relatives just decided on a whim to go to Tagaytay, I rushed dressing up, and I used some of my autumn clothes I bought for travel to Beijing.  Well, it wasn't so cold, just in the 20s C, I suppose, but we were there at midnight. It was not chilly, though.

     So, what did we do there?  We just bought coffee from Starbucks and ate a local rice porridge.  That was all.  Of course, we saw no view.  It was so dark, although a saw pantomime in front of Starbucks in Tagaytay.  He was a hoot!

     After consuming our coffees in like, less ten minutes for a grande cup (it was cold outside and the hot coffee got cold way too fast), I climbed up at the back of the truck with everybody else, except for my cousin who was driving, and had a thrill riding in the city.  My cousin would make the pick-up swerve every now and then to scare my nephews and nieces, including his own kids. Well, the older ones in their 20s were freaking out.  They're such a wuss.  They were specially scared when we went up to the Palace in the Sky, apparently, the highest point in Tagaytay.  The fog was so damn thick in there; zero visibility.  But my cousin stopped the car roadside, on a place where there were no lamp posts, turned off the engines and cue in screams by my younger relatives.  Hahaha!  Anyway, the place was just so damn eerily beautiful; haunting but romantic at 2 in the morning.  You could only barely see the road because of the fog but the yellow cast from the lamp post was just so pretty.  Or, maybe because I left my eyeglasses at home and I could barely see (I can only see lights from cars and lamp posts far ahead, but they all look like christmas lanters/lights to me).

     We went back because of the thick fog; I think, we weren't able to reach the peak.  Going down, we drove by a row of flower shops along the road.  I bought a large sunflower, which wasn't cheap at Php 100.00 a piece.  My little nephew wanted a gerbera, so bought him an orange one.  Oh, yes, the flower stalls are open in the wee hours of the night.  We were there around 2:30 a.m.    

     Finally, we drove down back to Manila.  We remained at the back of the truck, with the little kids safety stowed inside, until we reached home.

      I learned one thing about myself while I was riding at the back.  When we got to the flower shop, my little niece told me that my skin looked so pretty; apparently, my face was so white.  Perhaps, due to the cold.  However, I was not even cold, only that cold air was blasting directly on my face (my cousin was driving really fast).  Whenever I'm outdoors, even if it's cloudy, but if it's humid, I'll definitely have rosy cheeks.  That is the reason why I barely use blush-ons.  So now, I know that whenever the cold air blasts, I'll have a paler and whiter skin. 

History Channel's Hidden Cities - Taiwan

     I have been swamped with work that I wasn't able to keep track of everything that I'm supposed to do.  But here it is, the synopsis for the final episode of Hidden Cities, featuring Taiwan:

N.B. From History Asia Channel's Hidden Cities webpage:

      Taiwan is an Asian economic powerhouse and one of the region's most liberal societies.  But beneath its modern facade lies a hidden world of secret fortresses, underground cities and tragic prison camps.


     In this episode, presenter Anthony Morse explores a 7-hectare fortress that served as former leader Chiang Kai-shek's secret military command center during the Chinese Civil War; discovers a forgotten WWII prisoner-of-war camp currently used as an aboriginal refugee center and uncovers an underground city stretching over several kilometers that was dug right beneath an 800-year-old village.


     Programme schedule:


     Premiers 14 November, 10:00 pm (GMT +8)
     Encores: 16 November at 11:00 pm, 21 November at 9:00 pm, and 03 December at 10:00 pm

     I have been to Taiwan several months ago, and I just instantly fell in love with it.  For sure, this episode will bring back the nostalgic memories I have of Taiwan.  I will be live-blogging the show, as well as the Indonesia episode which will be shown back-to-back tomorrow night, Sunday.

     I grabbed the promotional video of the episode from their website and you could watch it HERE:

Air Asia: Teaser, Perhaps for an Upcoming Sale [Stay Tuned: 15 November 2010]

     Remember how disappointed I am because there's no Air Asia seat sale for Tokyo?  Well, lo and behold, Air Asia released a teaser via Facebook about their possibly upcoming sale.  It's just a picture, but it does paint a thousand words.  See for yourself:

     As you can see, Australia, India, China (or perhaps, Hong Kong? It's possibly Taiwan), Japan, Korea and London are representing, like they're parading for United Nations Day.  I honestly don't know which country the girl between Ms. Korea and Mr. UK is representing, but it looks like China to me.  Can they get any cuter?  So kawaii!

    I'm so excited, to tell you the truth, considering that I'm contemplating on visiting Japan. Indeed, good things come to those who wait.  We'll just have to see if the sale would extend to the latter part of November 2011.  I'd really, really want to spend a week during autumn in Japan.  If not, however, I'll just have to wait for Cebu Pacific's sale going to Osaka, Japan.  Or, I might get a ticket going to Tokyo via Air Asia and a return ticket via Cebu Pacific from Osaka, Japan.  I would have to get a Japan Rail Pass either way, so I think I have several options for me to choose from.  I'd really like to stay for a day in Kuala Lumpur and go to the Petronas Tower up to the observation deck/bridge, too, so going from Manila to Kuala Lumpur, and from there, to Tokyo, isn't a bad idea either.  Costly, but still enticing.

     It'll be a happy sale hunting for me.  Yay!

 

Manila Chronicles: Winter Clothes Shopping at Winterhouse, Cartimar

For Winter Clothes Shopping at HMR, Pioneer, click HERE, and HERE for Jan 2011 Winter Clothes Sale at the Malls.


Click here for winter clothes shopping 2012 at Terranova, Promod and Topshop.

     I have been carefully planning for my first autumn/winter experience.  I have been collecting autumn clothes but then I learned that temperature in Beijing in late November drops to single digits, and even lower (in Celsius).  So, in a hurry, I shopped for some winter accessories and outerwear at Winterhouse in Cartimar, Pasay.

     Cartimar is a small shopping district more popularly known for selling footwear and pet animals.  Certainly, it did not cross my mind that I'd find a winter clothes shop there, and a fairly large establishment at that.  When I saw the shop, it looked so sleepy outside; there were not a lot of people buying even in the other shops.  Inside the shop, I was the only customer.  While winter clothes abound, the shop looks like a more organized ukay-ukay.  Although of course, the clothes Winterhouse sells have never been used.

     There are good items in there, and some thermals, but the pretty ones are few far and between.  Well, if truth be told, there is almost nothing fashionable in that store, but if you just want to be comfortably warm, with no fuss, no frills, then Winterhouse would fit your needs.  Older or more conservative people would probably approve of their selection.  However, if you are more fashion conscious, you could ask the shop to custom-made winter clothing for you.  It'll take about a week or two for them to finish your desired design.     

     Don't get me wrong; the items sold at Winterhouse do not come cheap. Of course, you'll find a bargain or two, but their products are just a little cheaper than those sold at Terranova, Marks and Spencer, Dorothy Perkins or Top Shop; about 20% to 30% cheaper.  However, you could haggle with the shop's keeper for you purchases.

     I was able to buy a fleece sweater for Php 700, which I find too pricey, a hooded vest for the same price, and a set of winter gloves.  They're fairly cute, especially the vest.  My total purchase cost me Php 1700.00.  Well, I was looking for winter clothes patterned after Japanese fashion, but I had no luck.  The shop does  not even sell legwarmers, something which I see in almost every foreign clothes brand at the mall carrying autumn/winter clothes.  And I was hoping to buy some legwarmers since they're just too cute, and they're perfect for wearing leggings and skirts.

     Nonetheless, you'd probably find something for you at Winterhouse; you just have to dig deeper and be patient browsing their racks.  Or you can just ask the shop keeper for suggestions.  If you're buying for your mom and pop, or perhaps for your mee-maw (borrowed term from Dr. Sheldon Cooper), or granddad, well, you'll find the store adequate.  And before I forget, Winterhouse also sells winter clothes for kids.

 

Winterhouse Garments

18 A Cartimar Ave.,

Shopping Arcade, Pasay City

1300 Philippines 

Tel. Nos. 831-2277; 823-0504

 

Air Asia: The Best Seats are Free Seats! [Update 3 - Promo Starts 00:01, 09 Nov 2010]

     In just a few hours, Air Asia's seat sale will commence.  I can actually see again the promo details when I logged on at Air Asia's website a while back.  I am not planning to buy tickets for this sale considering that I would have wanted to get super sale seats to Japan for some koyo or foliage during autumn next year.  Perhaps, I'll just wait for Cebu Pacific's seat sale for Osaka.

     I think, however, that Air Asia's seat sale is best for island-hopping in Thailand, cross-country travel to Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, Vietnam and Cambodia.  

     Below is the promo list; it is set to the Philippines as country of origin and the fares are in pesos.  Happy travel planning and sale hunting!  Who knows, you might be able to score some free seats.

     Before I forget, Air Asia also provided  some BOOKING TIPS to minimize glitches, anxieties, impatience, frustration, etc., during the busy bookings.

N.B.  From Air Asia's website: 

	FREE SEATS Booking Period : 9 November 2010 - 14 November 2010    Travel Period : 1 July 2011 - 10 November 2011 Travel Notes - Advanced booking bequired. - Fares are not available during embargo period. Check seat availability here! Click here for booking tips

Show flights from Alor Star Bali Banda Aceh Bandung Bangalore Bangkok Bintulu Brunei Chennai Chiang Mai Chiang Rai Clark (Manila) Colombo Dhaka Guangzhou Guilin Haikou Hanoi Hat Yai Ho Chi Minh City Hong Kong Jakarta Johor Bahru Kochi Kolkata Kota Bharu Kota Kinabalu Krabi Kuala Lumpur Kuala Terengganu Kuching Labuan Langkawi Macau Makassar Medan Miri Nakhon Si Thammarat Narathiwat New Delhi Padang Pekanbaru Penang Perth Phnom Penh Phuket Sandakan Shenzhen Sibu Siem Reap Singapore Solo Surabaya Surat Thani Taipei Tawau Tiruchirappalli Ubon Ratchathani Udon Thani Vientiane Yangon Yogyakarta  Show All
Fly from Diosdado Macapagal International Airport, Clark (Manila) to:
International	All-in-fare from
Malaysia
Kota Kinabalu		PHP 490
Kuala Lumpur		PHP 790
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Fly from Kuala Lumpur International Airport (LCC Terminal), Kuala Lumpur to:
Domestic	All-in-fare from
Alor Star		PHP 90
Bintulu		PHP 90
Johor Bahru		PHP 90
Kota Bharu		PHP 90
Langkawi		PHP 90
Penang		PHP 90
Kuala Terengganu		PHP 90
Kota Kinabalu		PHP 523
Kuching		PHP 523
Labuan		PHP 523
Miri		PHP 523
Sibu		PHP 523
Sandakan		PHP 821
Tawau		PHP 821
International	All-in-fare from
Bangladesh
Dhaka		PHP 1105
Brunei
Brunei		PHP 806
Cambodia
Phnom Penh		PHP 806
Siem Reap		PHP 806
China
Haikou		PHP 1105
Guilin		PHP 1105
Guangzhou		PHP 1851
Shenzhen		PHP 1851
Hong Kong
Hong Kong		PHP 1105
India
Bangalore		PHP 373
Tiruchirappalli		PHP 1105
Kochi		PHP 1105
Kolkata		PHP 1105
Chennai		PHP 1105
Indonesia
Bandung		PHP 373
Banda Aceh		PHP 373
Padang		PHP 373
Pekanbaru		PHP 373
Solo		PHP 373
Surabaya		PHP 373
Jakarta		PHP 806
Medan		PHP 806
Bali		PHP 1105
Yogyakarta		PHP 1105
Makassar		PHP 1105
Laos
Vientiane		PHP 373
Macau
Macau		PHP 373
Myanmar
Yangon		PHP 806
Philippines
Clark (Manila)		PHP 1105
Singapore
Singapore		PHP 373
Sri Lanka
Colombo		PHP 1105
Thailand
Hat Yai		PHP 373
Bangkok		PHP 806
Phuket		PHP 806
Krabi		PHP 806
Chiang Mai		PHP 1105
Vietnam
Ho Chi Minh City		PHP 806
Hanoi		PHP 1105
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Fly from Suvarnabhumi International Airport, Bangkok to:
Domestic	All-in-fare from
Chiang Mai		PHP 163
Narathiwat		PHP 163
Ubon Ratchathani		PHP 163
Chiang Rai		PHP 650
Nakhon Si Thammarat		PHP 650
Surat Thani		PHP 650
Udon Thani		PHP 650
Hat Yai		PHP 975
Phuket		PHP 975
Krabi		PHP 975
International	All-in-fare from
Cambodia
Phnom Penh		PHP 1065
China
Shenzhen		PHP 1520
Guangzhou		PHP 1824
Hong Kong
Hong Kong		PHP 1824
India
Kolkata		PHP 2128
New Delhi		PHP 2585
Indonesia
Bali		PHP 1824
Jakarta		PHP 2280
Surabaya		PHP 2280
Macau
Macau		PHP 1824
Malaysia
Penang		PHP 1520
Kuala Lumpur		PHP 1520
Myanmar
Yangon		PHP 1065
Singapore
Singapore		PHP 1520
Taiwan
Taipei		PHP 1824
Vietnam
Ho Chi Minh City		PHP 1065
Hanoi		PHP 1520
Back to top
Fly from Soekarno Hatta International Airport, Jakarta to:
Domestic	All-in-fare from
Bali		PHP 26
Yogyakarta		PHP 26
International	All-in-fare from
Malaysia
Kota Kinabalu		PHP 0
Penang		PHP 250
Kuala Lumpur		PHP 504
Singapore
Singapore		PHP 0
Thailand
Phuket		PHP 758
Bangkok		PHP 1013
Vietnam
Ho Chi Minh City		PHP 504
Back to top
Fly from Singapore, Changi Airport, Singapore to:
International	All-in-fare from
Indonesia
Bali		PHP 1047
Yogyakarta		PHP 1047
Jakarta		PHP 1047
Bandung		PHP 1418
Malaysia
Kuala Lumpur		PHP 1047
Langkawi		PHP 1047
Kuching		PHP 1047
Penang		PHP 1047
Kota Kinabalu		PHP 1047
Thailand
Phuket		PHP 1688
Bangkok		PHP 1688
Back to top
Fly from Kota Kinabalu International Airport (T2), Kota Kinabalu to:
Domestic	All-in-fare from
Miri		PHP 90
Sandakan		PHP 90
Tawau		PHP 90
Kuching		PHP 90
Penang		PHP 523
Kuala Lumpur		PHP 523
Johor Bahru		PHP 523
International	All-in-fare from
China
Shenzhen		PHP 1851
Hong Kong
Hong Kong		PHP 1851
Indonesia
Jakarta		PHP 373
Philippines
Clark (Manila)		PHP 806
Singapore
Singapore		PHP 373
Taiwan
Taipei		PHP 1851
Back to top
Fly from Kuching Interntianal Airport, Main Terminal, Kuching to:
Domestic	All-in-fare from
Bintulu		PHP 135
Kota Kinabalu		PHP 135
Miri		PHP 135
Sibu		PHP 135
Penang		PHP 567
Johor Bahru		PHP 567
Kuala Lumpur		PHP 567
International	All-in-fare from
Singapore
Singapore		PHP 761
Back to top
Fly from Penang International Airport, Penang to:
Domestic	All-in-fare from
Langkawi		PHP 135
Kuala Lumpur		PHP 135
Johor Bahru		PHP 135
Kuching		PHP 567
Kota Kinabalu		PHP 567
International	All-in-fare from
Hong Kong
Hong Kong		PHP 1492
Indonesia
Medan		PHP 388
Jakarta		PHP 1194
Surabaya		PHP 1194
Macau
Macau		PHP 1492
Singapore
Singapore		PHP 761
Thailand
Bangkok		PHP 1492
Back to top
Fly from Senai International Airport, Johor Bahru to:
Domestic	All-in-fare from
Penang		PHP 135
Kuala Lumpur		PHP 135
Kota Kinabalu		PHP 567
Kuching		PHP 567
Miri		PHP 567
Sibu		PHP 567
Back to top
Fly from Phuket International Airport, Phuket to:
Domestic	All-in-fare from
Udon Thani		PHP 163
Ubon Ratchathani		PHP 163
Chiang Mai		PHP 650
Bangkok		PHP 975
International	All-in-fare from
Hong Kong
Hong Kong		PHP 1824
Indonesia
Jakarta		PHP 1824
Malaysia
Kuala Lumpur		PHP 1520
Singapore
Singapore		PHP 1520
Back to top
Fly from Denpasar Ngurah Rai International Airport, Bali to:
Domestic	All-in-fare from
Jakarta		PHP 26
Bandung		PHP 300
International	All-in-fare from
Australia
Perth		PHP 1521
Malaysia
Kuala Lumpur		PHP 758
Singapore
Singapore		PHP 0
Thailand
Bangkok		PHP 758
Back to top
Fly from Husein Sastranegara Airport, Bandung to:
Domestic	All-in-fare from
Bali		PHP 300
Medan		PHP 300
International	All-in-fare from
Malaysia
Kuala Lumpur		PHP 0
Singapore
Singapore		PHP 250
Back to top
Fly from Juanda International Airport, Surabaya  to:
Domestic	All-in-fare from
Medan		PHP 300
International	All-in-fare from
Malaysia
Kuala Lumpur		PHP 0
Penang		PHP 250
Thailand
Bangkok		PHP 1013
Back to top
Fly from Sultan Abdul Halim Airport, Alor Star to:
Domestic	All-in-fare from
Kuala Lumpur		PHP 0
Back to top
Fly from Bengaluru International Airport, Bangalore to:
International	All-in-fare from
Malaysia
Kuala Lumpur		PHP 2113
Back to top
Fly from Sultan Iskandarmuda Airport, Banda Aceh to:
International	All-in-fare from
Malaysia
Kuala Lumpur		PHP 0
Back to top
Fly from Bintulu Airport, Bintulu to:
Domestic	All-in-fare from
Kuala Lumpur		PHP 135
Kuching		PHP 135
Back to top
Fly from Brunei International Airport, Brunei to:
International	All-in-fare from
Malaysia
Kuala Lumpur		PHP 912
Back to top
Fly from Baiyun International Airport, Guangzhou to:
International	All-in-fare from
Malaysia
Kuala Lumpur		PHP 2988
Thailand
Bangkok		PHP 2286
Back to top
Fly from Netaji Subhash Chandara Bose International Airport, Kolkata to:
International	All-in-fare from
Malaysia
Kuala Lumpur		PHP 2040
Thailand
Bangkok		PHP 2246
Back to top
Fly from Chiang Rai Airport, Chiang Rai to:
Domestic	All-in-fare from
Bangkok		PHP 650
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Fly from Bandaranayake International Airport, Colombo to:
International	All-in-fare from
Malaysia
Kuala Lumpur		PHP 1654
Back to top
Fly from Chiang Mai International Airport, Chiang Mai to:
Domestic	All-in-fare from
Bangkok		PHP 163
Phuket		PHP 650
International	All-in-fare from
Malaysia
Kuala Lumpur		PHP 1824
Back to top
Fly from Cochin International Airport, Kochi to:
International	All-in-fare from
Malaysia
Kuala Lumpur		PHP 1887
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Fly from Zia International Airport, Dhaka to:
International	All-in-fare from
Malaysia
Kuala Lumpur		PHP 2636
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Fly from Indira Gandhi International Airport, Terminal 3, New Delhi to:
International	All-in-fare from
Thailand
Bangkok		PHP 3982
Back to top
Fly from Hainan Meilan International Airport, Haikou to:
International	All-in-fare from
Malaysia
Kuala Lumpur		PHP 1932
Back to top
Fly from Noi Bai International Airport, Hanoi to:
International	All-in-fare from
Malaysia
Kuala Lumpur		PHP 1686
Thailand
Bangkok		PHP 1210
Back to top
Fly from Hat Yai International Airport, Hat Yai to:
Domestic	All-in-fare from
Bangkok		PHP 975
International	All-in-fare from
Malaysia
Kuala Lumpur		PHP 1065
Back to top
Fly from Hong Kong International Airport (T2), Hong Kong to:
International	All-in-fare from
Malaysia
Kuala Lumpur		PHP 2177
Penang		PHP 2177
Kota Kinabalu		PHP 2760
Thailand
Bangkok		PHP 2177
Phuket		PHP 2177
Back to top
Fly from Adi Sucipto Airport, Yogyakarta to:
Domestic	All-in-fare from
Jakarta		PHP 26
International	All-in-fare from
Malaysia
Kuala Lumpur		PHP 758
Singapore
Singapore		PHP 0
Back to top
Fly from Sultan Ismail Petra Airport, Kota Bharu to:
Domestic	All-in-fare from
Kuala Lumpur		PHP 135
Back to top
Fly from Krabi International Airport, Krabi to:
Domestic	All-in-fare from
Bangkok		PHP 894
International	All-in-fare from
Malaysia
Kuala Lumpur		PHP 1064
Back to top
Fly from Liangjiang International Airport, Guilin to:
International	All-in-fare from
Malaysia
Kuala Lumpur		PHP 1852
Back to top
Fly from Labuan Airport, Labuan to:
Domestic	All-in-fare from
Kuala Lumpur		PHP 567
Back to top
Fly from Langkawi International Airport, Langkawi to:
Domestic	All-in-fare from
Kuala Lumpur		PHP 135
Penang		PHP 135
International	All-in-fare from
Singapore
Singapore		PHP 761
Back to top
Fly from Chennai International Airport, Chennai to:
International	All-in-fare from
Malaysia
Kuala Lumpur		PHP 1887
Back to top
Fly from Polonia International Airport, Medan to:
Domestic	All-in-fare from
Surabaya		PHP 300
Bandung		PHP 300
International	All-in-fare from
Malaysia
Penang		PHP 0
Kuala Lumpur		PHP 504
Back to top
Fly from Macau International Airport, Macau to:
International	All-in-fare from
Malaysia
Kuala Lumpur		PHP 776
Penang		PHP 1558
Thailand
Bangkok		PHP 1541
Back to top
Fly from Miri Airport, Miri to:
Domestic	All-in-fare from
Kota Kinabalu		PHP 135
Kuching		PHP 135
Kuala Lumpur		PHP 567
Johor Bahru		PHP 567
Back to top
Fly from Narathiwat Airport, Narathiwat to:
Domestic	All-in-fare from
Bangkok		PHP 82
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Fly from Nakhon Si Thammarat Airport, Nakhon Si Thammarat to:
Domestic	All-in-fare from
Bangkok		PHP 568
Back to top
Fly from Minangkabau International Airport, Padang to:
International	All-in-fare from
Malaysia
Kuala Lumpur		PHP 0
Back to top
Fly from Perth International Airport, Perth to:
International	All-in-fare from
Indonesia
Bali		PHP 5152
Back to top
Fly from Sultan Syarif Kasim II Airport, Pekanbaru to:
International	All-in-fare from
Malaysia
Kuala Lumpur		PHP 0
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Fly from Phnom Penh International Airport, Phnom Penh to:
International	All-in-fare from
Malaysia
Kuala Lumpur		PHP 605
Thailand
Bangkok		PHP 217
Back to top
Fly from Siem Reap International Airport, Siem Reap to:
International	All-in-fare from
Malaysia
Kuala Lumpur		PHP 605
Back to top
Fly from Yangon International Airport, Yangon to:
International	All-in-fare from
Malaysia
Kuala Lumpur		PHP 389
Thailand
Bangkok		PHP 303
Back to top
Fly from Sibu Airport, Sibu to:
Domestic	All-in-fare from
Kuching		PHP 135
Johor Bahru		PHP 567
Kuala Lumpur		PHP 567
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Fly from Sandakan Airport, Sandakan to:
Domestic	All-in-fare from
Kota Kinabalu		PHP 135
Kuala Lumpur		PHP 866
Back to top
Fly from Tan Son Nhat International Airport, Ho Chi Minh City to:
International	All-in-fare from
Indonesia
Jakarta		PHP 1470
Malaysia
Kuala Lumpur		PHP 1426
Thailand
Bangkok		PHP 994
Back to top
Fly from Adi Sumarmo International Airport, Solo to:
International	All-in-fare from
Malaysia
Kuala Lumpur		PHP 0
Back to top
Fly from Bao'an International Airport (International Terminal), Shenzhen to:
International	All-in-fare from
Malaysia
Kuala Lumpur		PHP 2520
Kota Kinabalu		PHP 2520
Thailand
Bangkok		PHP 1518
Back to top
Fly from Sultan Mahmud Airport, Kuala Terengganu to:
Domestic	All-in-fare from
Kuala Lumpur		PHP 135
Back to top
Fly from Taoyuan International Airport, Taipei to:
International	All-in-fare from
Malaysia
Kota Kinabalu		PHP 2262
Thailand
Bangkok		PHP 1522
Back to top
Fly from Tiruchirappalli Civil Airport, Tiruchirappalli to:
International	All-in-fare from
Malaysia
Kuala Lumpur		PHP 2257
Back to top
Fly from Tawau Airport, Tawau to:
Domestic	All-in-fare from
Kota Kinabalu		PHP 135
Kuala Lumpur		PHP 866
Back to top
Fly from Ubon Ratchathani Airport, Ubon Ratchathani to:
Domestic	All-in-fare from
Phuket		PHP 82
Bangkok		PHP 83
Back to top
Fly from Hasanuddin International Airport, Makassar to:
International	All-in-fare from
Malaysia
Kuala Lumpur		PHP 758
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Fly from Surat Thani Airport, Surat Thani  to:
Domestic	All-in-fare from
Bangkok		PHP 568
Back to top
Fly from Udon Thani International Airport, Udon Thani to:
Domestic	All-in-fare from
Phuket		PHP 82
Bangkok		PHP 568
Back to top
Fly from Wattay International Airport, Vientiane to:
International	All-in-fare from
Malaysia
Kuala Lumpur		PHP 519