Going to Bacolod anytime soon? Check out Sugarland Hotel which is at the southern part of Bacolod City. The hotel is approximately 30-45 mins. from Bacolod-Silay Airport, 15 mins. from Bredco Port Terminal and 10-15 mins. away from the famous Lacson tourism strip by cab. :)

I got a standard room that costs ₱1,975 per night (via Asiatravel) that's inclusive of buffet breakfast for two. Take note that the rate I paid for was booked a month before the MassKara Festival.


I like their beds, orthopedic. And hindi masikip, very comfortable nung tulog ko. ;)


The room is very spacious but is definitely showing signs of wear and tear. Time to maybe do another renovation? But at least it's clean. And walang amoy. :)

 
The bathroom is very spacious too but like I said, mukhang naluma na. They need to replace towels, medyo hindi na siya maputi. Hehe.


Their TVs are cable-ready plus there's provided water in the fridge. :)


As for the breakfast, simple lang. May steamed and garlic rice. For the soup minsan arroz caldo minsan noodles. Everyday iba iba ang ulam which is good 'coz nakakaumay naman if 3 days straight paulit ulit breakfast. LOL.


That's my usual breakfast spot, alone but happy. I didn't get to try the pool though, parang ang awkward mag swimming na may nag b-breakfast sa tabi mo. Haha.

I like the location of this hotel because it's very quiet. If you're a party animal and coming to Bacolod for the MassKara Festival then I suggest you book in advanced for a hotel along Lacson St. like L'Fisher Chalet.

But if I may suggest, I hope the hotel provides shuttle service to Lacson in the near future. Kahit 2-3 roundtrips per day lang. That was the most hassle part for me, going to Lacson and back to my hotel. But it's all goooooood, at least I got to discover other parts of the city. ;)

It has always been a dream of mine to visit the land of the rising sun, Japan. Unfortunately, Philippine passport holders (like me and you!) need to apply for visa before going there. My parents and I tried applying few weeks ago and luckily got approved in less than 7 working days! Let me give you a list of documents you need to present in travel agencies accredited by the Embassy of Japan.

UPDATE (January/18/2023): Finally got my visa from the Japanese Embassy. Yes, I'm going back after almost 5 years!

1. Passport - Do take note of the expiry date of your passport. If about to expire, I highly recommend renewing your passport first before applying.
2. Visa Application Form - You may download here. Make sure to fill-up everything. If some parts not applicable, just write NA.
3. Photo - Most photo studios know the dimension but if not, its 45mm by 35mm. You need to wear something formal like a business attire and background must be white. No smiling!
4. PSA Birth Certificate - To save you time and effort; just call their hotline, deposit payment and wait for your certificate to arrive via mail. Ours arrived after 3 working days.
5. Marriage Contract (if the applicant is married)
6. Sample itinerary in Japan
   
7. Bank Certificate - This must be under your name or your Guarantor's.
   
8. Income Tax Return (Form 2316) - Present orginal and photocopy of the form.
9. Certificate of Employment
   
10. Guarantee Letter (if trip will be paid by another party) - We needed to present one because my husband will be the one to shoulder all expenses for the trip.
11. Request for Multiple-Entry visa. You just need to input a reason why you think you deserve to have a multiple-entry visa.
    

Here's a sample of a filled up visa application form:

 



UPDATE (10/15/2015): I guess you've all heard the news that the Japanese Embassy has begun implementing a simpler visa application process for Filipinos, as well as nationals of Indonesia and Vietnam. Paolo just got his visa renewed and luckily got a multiple-entry valid up to 5 years with 30 days stay.

Click here for the list of accredited agencies by the Embassy of Japan. We submitted our application with Rakso Tours in Makati and the current rate is Php1,500 per person. We needed to submit an additional authorization letter for the travel agency to pick-up since they're not on the official list of agencies provided by the Japan Embassy. Goodluck! :)

P.S. This application is for Filipinos currently based in the Philippines only. If you have any questions, just 'LIKE' my Facebook page and you may send me a PM there. Thanks! :)

Marina Bay Sands Singapore

As you all know, Singapore is one and will always be part of the most expensive cities in the world. Paolo (the boyfriend) had the opportunity to stay at the Marina Bay Sands (MBS) hotel last week when he attended the 2014 ASEAN Insurance Summit in Singapore. He stayed at a deluxe room and cheapest rate for that will cost you $339SGD (approximately ₱12,000) a night, exclusive of tax and other fees.

For someone who's kuripot, of course he won't pay that much for a hotel noh! This was made possible by their office, Commonwealth Insurance Company. Besides, the summit was also held at the MBS so the ASEAN Insurance Council offered special rates for attendees of the event. :) Let's move on to the room shall we?


Marina Bay Sands Deluxe Room


The 39-sqm room is very spacious if traveling solo or as a couple.


 

Room Features: Walk-in shower + Paiza bathroom amenities, iron and ironing board, in-room safe, complimentary high speed internet access, etc.


Since it was a "discounted" room, expect to get a limited view. LOL. Paolo initially wanted to have a city view room but then wala siya choice, ok na rin ang Gardens by the Bay. :)


They serve breakfast (buffet) at Rise Restaurant from 6:30-11:00AM.



Paolo kind of got bored because they served the same food during his stay.

He also had access to the stunning Sands SkyPark infinity pool and award-winning Banyan Tree Fitness Club kaya nga lang he got too preoccupied with the summit so he had no time to visit both.

He did have time, however, to go out and take photos around MBS despite the slightly smoggy weather.

 

Anyway, was it worth to experience Marina Bay Sands hotel? I think so. But I think this will be his first and last stay there. Hehe. Back in 2012, we stayed at Somerset Liang Court, a serviced apartment that was walking distance from Clark Quay and Fort Canning Park. Ok siya (sorry I forgot to blog about it) so you might wanna check it out too. ;)

2GO Travel is one of the largest, premier land and sea-travel provider in the Philippines. I remember when I got an invite from 2GO almost a year ago to join their trip to Iloilo and Bacolod, it was one of the most awesome group trips ever. Thank you once again to Stephen Tagud for making it possible. :)

Stephen is one of the youngest and most successful entrepreneurs I've met. At 32 years old, he is the Vice President and Passage Commercial Officer of 2GO.

According to his profile at 2GO: He completed his undergraduate studies from University of Nevada Las Vegas, USA where he graduated Cum Laude. He also earned his post-graduate studies from the Swiss Hotel Management School “Les Roches” of Bulche, Switzerland and from the Universidad Europa de Madrid with a degree of Master in Business Administration major in International Hospitality Management, Finance & Marketing.

Wow. I've always wanted to go back to school, like to study abroad. I even submitted an application for a school based in Sydney, Australia but then I'll be needing (drum roll please........) $3,500AUD for that. Eeeep @_@! Moving on, check out my Q&A with Stephen and be inspired to study hard, work hard and travel while you're young. ;)

• In one word, define travel. -- In a few words; "The essence of living!" 
• Could you describe the importance of travel? -- It allows you to grow and be open to all the richness and diversity in the world!

Stephen posing with The Little Mermaid in Copenhagen, Denmark and Stonehenge, United Kingdom

• How often do you fly, and on what airline? -- I fly to the USA every 3/4 months, and I always use Philippine Airlines because of the direct MNL-LAX flight. I fly to Europe (Nice, France/Monaco) always with Emirates (with their awesome Limo pick-up/drop off service) at least twice a year (fall and late spring), since the South of France/Monaco is my normal "escape" from life. For work, I also travel around Asia; HongKong, Singapore, etc.. (using various air carriers). But I travel a lot domestically (I prefer to book with PAL), especially in our major ports of Cebu, Bacolod, Iloilo, Caticlan and Cagayan De Oro.. sometimes even only for a day or a few hours.
• Do you have a preferred day or time when traveling? -- When flying domestically, I prefer to take a late morning flight. When flying to the US or Europe, I prefer a late evening flight so i can still work during the day.

 
Stephen at the dessert safari in Dubai, UAE and Bali, Indonesia

• Who books your plane tickets and lodging? Are they personal or through a travel agency? -- For work-related travel, my secretary does the booking. She knows all my preferences, seat preference, special meal preference, etc. But when I travel for leisure, I always book online. 
• What’s the weirdest question you got from an immigration officer? -- Are you sure you are Filipino? 
• Window or Aisle? -- Aisle seat 
• Are you a light or heavy packer? -- I can say "medium-packer," since I tend to pack a little extra, just in case there are pop-up cocktail parties or soirées I have to attend. And also to anticipate "wardrobe changes" from day to evening wear.

"House party in Monte Carlo with friends."

• How do you pass the time on a flight? -- I usually catch up on reading, mostly the Harvard Business Review or any book that I am working on. I can hardly sleep on any airline even if the seat is a "lay-flat" bed. So books and sometimes I check out the movies showing. 
• In what country or region do you enjoy spending your favorite travel season, and why? -- I always enjoy spring and fall in the South of France due to its perfect weather, gorgeous views, the food & wine festivals (i.e. Truffle Season) and most charity galas that I have to attend with friends. Summer in Switzerland is great since I do like to hike up the Swiss alps and it is never too hot up there. December and the holidays are always best spent with family in California, USA. Also, I love going to Boracay or Palawan during the beginning of the year where the weather in the Philippines is not too hot or crowded with tourists. For me, nothing beats the perfect white-sand beaches of the Philippines!

"My fave beach in the world, BORACAY!"

• Tell us about your most recent journey? -- Last week, I spent a weekend back home in California (Los Angeles and San Diego) for 4 nights only. It was great to see and spend quality time with family and friends even if work only allowed literally a weekend short trip! 
• Where have you traveled and where do you plan to go next? -- I have been to most regions of the world since I was an international student in Europe and the USA before. I had the opportunity to see most of what I have wanted to see in the world. Well, with the exception of Antartica, of course, which, maybe one day I will go on an expedition to explore that region! This coming Christmas and New Year season, me and my family will explore New Zealand. 
• What is your ultimate travel destination? -- My most favorite so far is Iceland. There is something about the glaciers that are very calming to my senses! And just basking in the milky-blue waters of The Blue Lagoon is just rejuvinating! I always come back to that country when I need a good recharging. Also, the South of France (Monaco) has become my second home, so spending leisurely evenings with friends over great food, a few bottles of Champagne and having a fun night out in Monte Carlo is always at the top of my list! 
• Travel Tip -- ALWAYS keep 2 wallets separate (one in your check-in and one in your hand-carry bag), with each one containing at least ONE Photo ID and a Credit Card, just in case you lose one. Also, keep a photocopy of your passport and keep it in your check-in bag, again just in case you lose your passport, It is easier to process lost passports if you have a copy of the original one. Oh, and one last thing, don't forget to bring your "common sense" when traveling! ;)

WHAT IS UBER? Uber is basically a private taxi service. But want to know its difference from a cab? Read on... 

Most of the time I drive or have a driver with me. But last month, my older brother got into an accident so he had to bring his car to the service center for repairs and I had no choice but to share my car. Timing was perfect 'coz I've been wanting to try Uber for the longest time now and I'm glad I finally did.

With Uber, there’s no need to call a dispatcher or hail on the street. Just download the Uber app (available for both Android and iOS), register (you need to have a credit card), request for a ride and track your driver’s progress to your location. Very easy, di ba? :)

 
I originally requested for an uberX car but the nearest in BGC at that time was a Black Car which arrived in less than 5 minutes. While waiting, I got a notification from the Uber app that had the complete details of the driver, his contact number and the car.


Here's my driver Kuya Meneleo processing my transaction using his iPad provided by Uber.

It usually takes me less than 10 minutes to get to my house from BGC. But since very machika si Kuya Meneleo and very safe yung kanyang driving style, naging 20 minutes yung biyahe. Ok na rin, safety of the driver and passenger will always be Uber's priority. ;)

I also got the complete details of my Uber transaction via email and Uber profile page.

As you can see, I paid ₱217.00 (using the FREE travel credits provided by Uber) which is a little bit more than usual. Flag down rates are higher with Uber Black Cars. Don't worry, you have an option to ride the uberX cars too. Nagkataon lang na I was in a rush to come home before midnight. :)

Want to experience UBER too? Sign up with my promo code: ubertraveljunkie and get ₱200 off your first ride! Register na!

P.S. Do you drive or have extra cars at home and interested in using the Uber system? Getting started as a partner on Uber is as easy as 1-2-3 plus you get to earn as much as ₱250.00 per hour. ;) If interested just leave a comment below with your email and will contact you the soonest time possible. Thank you!

Can I share something different from traveling? You know.. I just had one of those unlucky days when everything seemed to go wrong instead of right. Tsk.

When John Legend announced his concert in Manila last May, my friends eagerly wait for the pre-selling of tickets and luckily they got front row seats to the concert. Here's a copy of the confirmation sent to their email last July 24, 2014.

They're not hardcore John Legend fans by the way, it's just that they can afford to buy so walang basagan ng trip ok? Haha.

Fast forward to September, just few days away from the concert they got a random email from CrowdSurge and says:

Due to a "system error", they moved my friends to rows 2 and 3.

Who the fuck will believe that reason right? In the Philippines, there will always be a "palakasan system" where one always get what they want as long as they have "connections". They tried to contact the local concert promoter Wilbros Live about this so called system error and the company insisted that front row seats were usually reserved for the management of whichever venue the concert will be held at. BS right? They let it pass and moved on...

Fast forward to concert day, September 26, 2014, I was busy with friends shooting a video for a local soup company and as expected it took longer than usual. I left the shoot at 6:00PM because I had to be at the Araneta Coliseum by 8:00PM.

Araneta Coliseum was less than 10kms away from Paco, Manila. Traffic was so bad lalo na in Old Sta. Mesa area. I arrived around 8:30PM and parked my car inside Shopwise (which was across the concert venue). Buti na lang it took me less than 5 minutes to find a parking slot because my gas tank's telling me I'm running out of gas.

Concert started on time and John Legend was probably singing his 3rd or 4th song when I arrived. Bummer right? Better late than never. It finished around 10:30PM but before heading home I asked friends to bring me to a nearby gas station to get extra liters of gas, para sure na makakauwi ako at di ma-stranded kung saan pa if in case ma stuck ulit sa traffic di ba? Ordered snacks too 'coz I haven't had a decent meal since 10:00 that morning. 

Anyway, I got back at Shopwise around 12:15AM and noticed that they closed the parking entrance which was on the second floor of the building. To make the long story short, Shopwise parking lot closes as 11:00PM meaning I can't get my car.

Tried to explain to the guards and even their supervisor na wala na ako gas kaya di ako agad nakabalik ng parking after nung concert. Dala dala ko pa nga yung gas na nabili ko o! Sadly, dedma sila. Ayaw talaga nila palabasin yung sasakyan ko. Rules are rules daw.

Buti na lang I have the parking ticket with me and showed them their parking conditions. Medyo malabo nga eh. Una sabi nila 11:00PM closing, tapos nakalagay sa conditions 11:30, tapos sa likod nung conditions may 12:00MN. Ano ba talaga Shopwise Araneta?

Nakalagay din na bawal daw overnight parking and may fine na Php300.00. Ok sige, understood ko yan. Pero.. walang nakalagay sa condition na bawal kunin yung sasakyan after 12:00MN. Instant carnapping di ba?

Went back the next day, September 27, 2014 around 7:00AM. Spotted other cars parked inside but not exactly sure if they're owned by Shopwise employees or whatnot. Nalungkot ako ng bigla for my car, kinidnap siya ng Shopwise. This will be my first and last time to park here, I usually park at Gateway Mall or the parking connected to the Araneta Colisuem, nagkataon lang na I'm running late at naubusan na ng parking space.


Ang masaklap pa don, I got a provisional instead of official receipt. Kakapal ng mukha.

Lesson learned... never ever park your car in Shopwise if watching a concert at the Araneta Coliseum. These mofos will not allow you to get you car 'til the morning after. Fuck you, Shopwise. Fuck you very much.