Japan 2020l Asakusa

Asakusa is the prefecture that has the old Japanese atmosphere.  It is used to be the entertainment district in Tokyo and the oldest geisha district. But now, it hosts to a cluster of domestic kitchenware stores.  I only found out about this when we were already there so looking for new kitchenwares was not included in our itinerary.

Tokyo Sky Tree

We stayed here since accommodations are cheaper in this part of Tokyo and not too far from the most tourist attractions.  I'm glad staying in this district though, as I prefer a quiet and not too busy place nowadays. Yeah, talk about tita moments!

rick saw ride

On our first day, after checking-in, we were guided by our gracious hosts to the famous Senso-ji temple. It's just a walking distance from our hotel.  Along the way, I noticed there are a lot of restaurants around with interesting architecture.

just one of the few modern buildings

But before the temple, it's hunting time for a ramen house since it's one of the purposes of our visit here in Japan. We were quite amazed that instead of a receptionist with menu, an ATM like counter greeted us.  This is where to order and pay your for your choice.  Good thing that there is a vacant space for us as it was jam packed as expected.

waiting for a vacant seat

The ramen is better compared to what we usually have here in our country.  However, one ramen for our entire stay here is already enough for me since I'm really not a fan of it.  I never finish one bowl of ramen whenever I eat one. ^-^

Japan 2020l APA Hotel

I chanced upon this hotel while browsing thru Agoda.  I'm just looking for a place that is near any train station with very reasonable price and free cancellation (just in case our visa application will be denied).   It looks quite decent and with high reviews.  Since no risk involved, I immediately booked it.  I'm so glad that I did even if it's located in Asakusa.

the "open concept" design; could really feel the cold wind here

our room at the farthest end

Checking in is really very easy.  Just show your reservation or name, they will quickly process your stay.  The receptionists are very friendly.

the hi-tech reception

As expected it is a tiny room; with just enough space to move around and for luggage.  However, it has most of the amenities and facilities that you will need during your stay - h/c shower, shampoo, conditioner, body wash, hair dryer, from cotton buds to hair brush, towels, slippers (outside and inside), bath robes, refrigerator, TV and daily supply of complimentary distilled water.  You need not bring your own toiletries.

the waiting area

there is a currency exchange ATM, but rate is low,

so don't use this unless really necessary

the baggage counter, if you still need to roam around before departing

It also has a very strategic location, only 5 mins. walk from the train station. 7-11, mos burger, Lawson's and restaurants are a walk away within the neighborhood.  It is also a walking distance from the Sensoji temple, Don Quijote and Rox department store.

the neighborhood

storage station near the subway station

subway station

there's a separate lane for walking and bicycles

Another plus factor is that it is the center of kitchenwares and household items.  Though I was not able to check these stores due to fear of hauling a lot and swiping my plastic cards too much.  Talk about hard self discipline here!

The best part is it has an onsen (though we didn't try).  The guests have the privilege to use this facility till 10PM everyday.  In the onsen area, there is a vendo machine for beers and other drinks.

We also tried their café downstairs and I love their pan cake.  Well, most pancakes being served in Japan are really delectable to the palette.  How do they do that???

Checking out is also a breeze.  You just have to drop your key cards on the slot provided in the elevator area.

I'll still opt to stay in APA Hotels when I revisit ^-^

Japanl A long time dream that came into reality

it's been ages my dear blog... let's rekindle the love 

happened last Jan. 15 to 21, 2020 (yep, latest escapade)

She's not elusive this time... Thank you so much Mt. Fuji for showing your whole beauty to us

Dreams do come true, don't you agree?  I've been interested in Japan since the time I started watching a travel channel featuring its places, culture and modern inventions.  I have been a fan of their discipline,  creativity, organization and systematic ways.  In the whole ASIA, it can be said that they are the most advanced country.

It took almost 3 decades before this dream came to reality and I savored every moment of it.  Let's face it, Japan is not an affordable travel.  In addition, acquiring a visa is not easy as a breeze.  You need to prepare properly and save for it.

It's in my 2021 bucket list but my lucky stars have other greater plans for me.  When Cebu Pacific announces a promo and with allocated schedule, I made sure to be prepared when the time comes.  Lo and behold!  I was able to score a Manila to Narita RT tickets for Php3,600 per person.  It's a steal!  Never mind that it was 9 months in advance.  At least I have a lot of time preparing and saving for it.  I decided that I'll just maximize my stay in Tokyo alone.  I was so wrong to think that a week is enough to fully discover it.  For us, not so young anymore, we chose the relax mode of exploring this mixture of modern and old city.

We were not able to complete our proposed itinerary due to our laziness.  But still, we have a lot of fun!  It was just supposed to be me and hubby, but my bff (since elementary) joined us suddenly so it was triple the fun.

Back from Long Hiatus

when you're weary, just stop for a while and smell the flowers.. but never QUIT!!!

I'm in hiatus for too long already (since 2017) but I can't say goodbye yet to this blog.  Not just yet.

A lot of things has happened for the past 2 years.  In that short period of time, there were major changes in my career and personal life that blogging has been the last in my mind.

My love for travel hasn't change a bit but my priorities has been reset leaning more on my career (bad choice of course).  At my age, I should be slowing down already but when opportunities were served in front of you, you just have to grab them.

From a very relax working environment, I'm now back in the jungle.  Yes, it is a jungle since it's literally "survival of the fittest".  From a medium company, I'm now in a giant company; where I should again prove my worth and place.  It is very challenging indeed.  I love the challenges but I despise the politics with it.  But for now, I have to survive for there's no other option yet.

My mood has been so down lately.  For the past two years, some of the people I know dearly already left us.  Currently, a close friend has experienced aneurysm and TG! is in recovery (slowly but at least he's still here with his loved ones).  A dear colleague has unexpectedly demised that I still can't believe and comprehend until now.

I just celebrated my birthday.  I'm nearing the golden age.  At this point, I should be "made up" already but I'm not.  There are still some things I need to accomplish.  Some dreams that I want to attain not just for me but for my loved ones as well.  There are more places I wanted to see. There is always more!

With all the people that are suddenly gone, it is good to be reminded again that:

1. Death is inevitable.  It can happen anywhere, anytime, anyhow.

2. Everything is temporary and can change in a split second. Everything can be gone before we know it.

3. Build a good relationship with your family and other people.  Love your family more than you love your work.  At the end of the day it is your family and relationship that will pull you through.  You will always be remembered by you treat other people not how good are in something.

4. Strive to be happy and be an instrument for others to be happy

5. Take care of yourself and make yourself a priority.

6. Travel while your body can.  Yes, money will somehow come but your youth will not.

7.  Always and always take a break to recharge and change your perspective.

So now, despite the challenges, I will still continue with my travels and enjoy what life has to offer.  I will still seek for more adventures and build more good relationships.

It's nice to be back and I hope I still have followers.

Bacolod City 2017| Campuestohan Highland Resort

happened on Sept. 23, 2017

Just a 20 min. land travel from the city is this mountain resort.  It is still a work in progress but with a lot of attractions to offer already.  Entrance fee is only Php150.00 per person; inlcuding entrance to the swimming pools.  You still have to pay additional fees for other attractions and cottages. 

there's King Kong

What's good about this resort is that it is located at the mountain foot so the weather is quite cool and have the whole Bacolod City as backdrop.

mountains touching the clouds

behind is the whole view of Bacolod City

You can opt for staying for an overnight, few days or just a day tour.  Bringing of foods is allowed.  There are shopping cards that you can use for your stuffs since parking area is far from the pool and resting areas.

Bacolod 2017| Ultimate Food Haven

happened on Sept. 18-29, 2017

I never thought that revisiting Bacolod will happen sooner than I expected.  I first visited this place last 2015 and vowed to come back for more.  When my work assignment in Cebu was cancelled, it was replaced by Bacolod.  So, I got two weeks to discover the "land of smiles" more.  It would be greater if I'm here during the Masskara festival but I'm sure no work will be done if I did that hehehehe.

the floating restaurants in balaring, silay city

Since it's a work related travel, I can only spare my office breaks and the weekend.  The only thing that I can enjoy much as I can is food tripping since this place is also being flocked by food lovers.   Bacolod is a food haven as it offers delectable meals at very affordable prices.  The quality of foods is at par with what they are offering in the high end dining areas here in the metro sans the hefty prices.  Unfortunately, I still didn't able to try all the highly recommended restaurants and eateries here as they are a plenty.  I have another reason to come back ^-^.

MO2 Westown stair

So let's begin with the food journey.  This is not according to rank of who is the best.  Most of the restaurants are located in Lacson St., where the Maskarra parade is being held.  Come third week of October, this will be no longer open to vehicles.  Apologies for not having the restaurants pictures.  Just enjoy the food porn though ^_^.

1. 21 Restaurant, along Lacson St. - it is one of my favorites; offering Filipino and fusion comfort food.  The ambiance is like fine dining but the prices of the food is super affordable.  We ate here for three times.  Yep, it is that good!

tasty ribs

Malayan Plaza Hotel

happened on Aug. 26 and Sept. 1 respectively

view of the serviced hotel from the open parking area

When you are a traveler a.k.a. "gala"; long weekends automatically mean a getaway from home.  It's a good coincidence that Aug. 28 and Sept. 1 became non-working holidays as I already have an advanced booking for the shower party of dear friend A.  An additional rest day is a perfect timing!

Reservation was made through Booking.com with an option to pay later and free cancellation.  Booking.com is a very helpful site for your vacation, travel and staycation plans.  It is one of the best tools available for any travel plan.  You can just reserve without any down payment.  This way, you will be able to choose the best accommodation till your scheduled vacation is due.

I was able to get a one bedroom deluxe for only Php3,200.00 (inclusive of all taxes and charges) for an overnight stay on Aug. 26 (good for 2-3 persons).  We booked again (with different set of friends this time) for a superior two bedroom apartment for only almost Php4,000.00 for Sept. 1-2 accommodation (good for 4-6 persons).

I was surprised that with the affordable price, it doesn't sacrifice the space and some amenities included.  There is a hair dryer and cooking utensils but no plates and cuttleries provided.  Basic set of toiletties is also included.

The beds and pillows are fluffy and soft.  I had an amazing sleeping experience here.

Its advantage from other hotels within Ortigas is its very strategic location.  It's adjacent to Podium and walking distance from Megamall and Robinson's.  It also has a Mini Stop and Pancake House at the ground floor. 

This is the spacious lobby:

For the superior two bedroom apartment:

smoking area

the kitchen

the small pool

the playroom

For more information, please check their website www.themalayanplazahotel.com.