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Thursday, 31 December 2015

New Year's Travel Resolutions

 



     Every year, Filipinos make a list of their New Year's Resolutions.  It's fun, really, but it doesn't mean that everything, or perhaps, even anything, on that list will be undertaken.  Oh well, I guess I wouldn't lose anything if I make one for myself, right?  Considering this is a travel blog, I might as well write down my new year's resolutions pertinent to traveling, right?

     Here it goes:

  1. Go to JAPAN in the fall.
    2. Stay at a hostel or budget inn.

   3.  Celebrate Christmas or New Year in another country.

   4.  Go to Boracay and use my all-expenses paid raffle prize [I already bought a bathing suit].
 
   5. Go to Singapore during the Singapore Sale.
 
   6. Finish articles about my past travel experiences to Singapore, Bangkok and Malaysia before the first week of February.
 
   7. Buy a new luggage set.
 
   8. Try to minimize my foreign travels into 2 trips this year [but then again I won't be able to fulfill my other resolutions].
 
   9. Travel alone.
 
   10. Don't buy unnecessary things so I could use my money for traveling instead [this year, I bought a laptop even though I already have one; I bought set of jewelry and I bought a Bulgari and Prada specs (my eyesight's really poor) and a few branded shades.   Yup, I always end up wasting money.
         Will I be able to do all these?  Ehh... Heehee.

        
    N.B.


    Stock photo courtesy of City of Blackbirds

    Wednesday, 30 December 2015

    Live-blogging the History Channel's Hidden Cities, Taiwan

        
         This is a replay but I wasn't able to live-blog during its first airing.

    11:01 p.m.

         Host Anthony visits Taipei, and is now discussing Chiang Kai-Shek.  He's now in Back Chiu.  It was ordered by Chiang Kai-Shek to be built as a refuge against communist China in case of air raid.  It is one of the most secure places in Taiwan and it was kept secret for 40 years.

         In the middle was Chiang Kai-Shek's residence.  It's not a secret anymore, though it's still restricted but host Anthony was allowed access.  The only people who have set post inside were the soldiers who guarded the area.  Of course, the area has now been ravaged by the forest; like a ghost town right smack in the middle of the forest.  The soldiers patrolling only knew their post, but not the other areas.

         The host is introducing another guide who served Chiang Kai-Shek (an aide-de-camp).  Apparently, in case of nuclear attack, a bomb shelter was made in the shape of an F.  Main passage leads to the command center.  Since the shelter was formed, the aide-de-camp said it has not been used, ever.  So, host Anthony got the help of a scientist who'd help him go inside the command center.  They used another passageway to get to the secret command center.  From the entrance, they have to descend 40 meters deep.  Oh, there's a toilet and bathroom.  There's a machine which purified the air, and they're now inside the command center.   The place is not a shelter for bats.  And, it's commercial break.

    11:14 p.m.


        They're in Kinmin, where military structures are still standing.  Anthony and her guide went to see a tunnel where ships passed through; it is called the Ji-Haishan Tunnel.  The tunnel was made in just 3 years.  The tunnel was recently opened to the public to raise public awareness.  Apparently, many people died during the construction.

        Gao Liang Winery's up next; a bunker system.  There's almost a million liters of wine in the bunkers.  The bunker was also used for attack as it housed a radio station airing propaganda ideals.


    11:25 p.m.


          The Chunglin Combat Village.  The inhabitants were mobilized to protect Taiwan at all cost.  It's another bunker, an they're at the command center.  A lot of women served, as evidenced by the photos.  If you're a woman ages 12 to 15 (or 16?), you're in charge of reconnaissance, shuffling messages back and forth.  Otherwise, everybody's supposed to defend.

         Another tunnel; it just gets narrower and narrower.  Not for the claustrophobic.  Why the hell are they looking for an exit?  They went inside not sure where it is?  And they're at another dead end.  Gosh.  It's like a maze, and thank God, they've found the exit, and it leads to a room and the exit  was probably hidden under a bed.

         In 1958, China bombarded them with some 400,000+ shells, and they people of Kinmin used these for knives which are now sold around the world.  That's just amazing.  Where can I buy one?  A knife that wields actual piece of history.  Some of the shells contains propaganda pamphlets whit pictorial depiction of a modern China.  And, they're making a knife.


    11:33 p.m.


         Host Anthony is now in Hualien to explore Taiwan's Japanese past.  Thousand of Japanese settlers traveled to Taiwan to start a new life; for some 50 years, the town thrived.  And the Japanese left, leaving everything behind.  But some still stands.

         They're at a shrine with Buddhist sculptures.  Host and his guide are going to haunt for Japanese structures.  They're at a Japanese tobacco grind house, made of bamboo, wood pegs and mud.  It looks really beautiful even in ruins.  they're at another structure, with moving shoji doors but still in ruins, but it's just so beautiful.

         And host Anthony heads to Lin Tien Shan, another surviving Japanese town whose main livelihood was logging, which was once prosperous.  It's now a national park.  There's a trail track for transporting logs.  The village chief shows the host tools used for logging.  When the Japanese left, the town became like a ghost town but one structure remains, a traditional Japanese house, a home of a former logger.     


    11:46 p.m.

         I have been to Taiwan in June, and I must say that I fell in love with it.  And watching this episode makes me want to return to Taiwan the soonest possible time.  I really miss Taiwan.

         And, the show's back.

         Host Anthony's riding a train going to Ping Tung.  Oh, it's about the prisoner of wars.  They're talking about the Heito Camp where the prisoners raised sugar canes.  It's first occupants were American allied forces from the Philippines.  The Heito Camp is now used to house aborigines.  There were very little escape attempts: first, the prisoners were isolated; second, the high security measures; and third, they're in an island.

         They're now at a refinery of some sorts.  A bomb fell from the allied forces but it never detonated.  Now, it was made into a big blue fish sculpture.  And the host went down a shelter under a banyan tree.


    11:55 p.m.


          How was life for a prison guard and for the prisoners?  A former prison guard relives the hardship.  When the emperor announced surrender, the Japanese there cried but the Taiwanese wanted to cheer but kept silent.  They're lying flowers for the victims of the war.  Very moving.

         And, that's a wrap.  This is the fourth and last episode of the Hidden Cities. I just hope History Channel will make another season.  And, hope they could come to the Philippines.  We also have own own hidden cities here.


    Tuesday, 29 December 2015

    Beijing Adventure - Day 1: Summer Palace [Part 1]

     



         One thing's for sure.  Beijing is not for the lazy and the impatient; you really, really need to use the body God has given you.  You must walk, walk, and walk.  Endure.  Beijing's beautiful tourist destinations are huge; they really do cover a vast track of land.  So, it's a relief that we were in Beijing during the last days of fall and early days of winter.  There was no heat to complain of.

         And so, we arrived at the Summer Palace late noon, and the guide ushered us to a map and told us where we were going.  She said that we'll only have little time to spend inside the Summer Palace since we still have to go to the Beijing Zoo's panda section later in the afternoon and to catch an acrobat show at night.




        We entered the Summer Palace through this inconspicuous gate:




         We climbed up and down a small but beautiful bridge and walked towards the marble boat.  There were not so many tourists around and so taking pictures without people walking in front of the camera was hassle-free.  







         Mind you, we only saw a teeny, tiny portion of the Summer Palace; our tour was so expedited.  Our guide said you need two days to fully explore at a leisurely pace the palace grounds and do all picture-snapping to your heart's content.

         At least, we saw the Marble Boat.  It just sits there majestically at the lake, so calm, so serene.  The guide pointed to us that there are big mirrors on the two floors.  What for? I don't know.  Perhaps to catch all the beautiful rays of the sun?  Or for the Empress to gaze at her own reflection?  For sure, it reflects Empress Cixi's caprice, vanity and unnecessary extravagance.  But because of that, we have something to marvel at:  The marble boat's a masterpiece.


         Before we reached the Marble Boat, we came upon an interesting bridge, and the harsh mid-day sun prevented me from taking its picture without being bathed in shadows.  Please be reminded that this bridge is near a rest room, in case you have to go.




         After taking quite a number of pictures of the marble boat, the guide ushered us to the Long Corridor, and indeed, it was really long.  Again, I was mesmerized by the detailed paintings on the beams; I ended up not paying attention our guide but I heard that the long corridor was built for the emperor's mother (didn't heard which emperor, though).  On one side of the corridor is a paved pathway traversing the edge of the Kunming Lake.  The pathway is fully tree-lined, and the strong winds just add to the Summer Palace's charm: the leaves and branched were swaying, the water on the lake gently lapping.  On the left side of the corridor is a structure, apparently, it's a restaurant of some sort but I could not be certain as I was not really paying attention to the vital information relayed to us by the guide.  I guess, it's my fault to have such a short attention span.  I mean, how can you blame me? I am happiest gazing at the beauty of nature and marveling at the skills of craftsmen and artists.  I just happen to love the beauty that surrounds me.




         The structure on the upper right is the Hall of Listening to the Orioles.  It used to be a theater, now it's a restaurant, presumably one of the best in China, or something.  And this is the pathway I'm talking about:




         Guess we were not the only ones who enjoyed a walk in the palace grounds:








    Sunday, 27 December 2015

    Cebu Pacific's Seat Sale to Beijing, Brunei and Jakarta [From 28 Dec 2010 until seats lasts]

    CEB offers year-end sale for Beijing, Brunei, Jakarta, and Zamboanga

    Hurry while surprise lasts! Grab our low seat sale fares before the New Year for flights to Beijing, Brunei, Jakarta, and Zamboanga! This seat sale starts now until December 30, 2010 or until seats last.

    It's fun to end 2010 with great deals for you, grab P888 ‘Go Lite’ fares for our Manila-Beijing flights, or as low as P1,499 to Brunei, or avail of P1,999 seats to Jakarta for travel starting February 1 to April 30, 2011!

    Get our 'Go Lite' special offer of P999 from Manila to Zamboanga for travel starting January 5 to February 28, 2011.


    You can expect that Cebu Pacific (CEB) will continue to offer the lowest fares in 2011 as we take delivery of more brand-new Airbus aircraft to service existing and new destinations. 2010 has been a very good year for CEB and we want to share this with you so that you can enjoy exploring new places and visit families and friends this coming Chinese New Year and Valentine’s Day. For booking and inquiries, log on to www.cebupacificair.com!


         I was about to sleep when I received this email from Cebu Pacific stating that there's a very cheap seat sale to Beijing, China, and other destinations for travel between 01 February to 30 April 2010.  And it's really dirt cheap, like Php 2,500+ round trip, although you may have to stay for 6D5N [one-way is Php 988.00; Go-lite is Php 888.00], but I've seen sale seats for their Thursday out-bound and Monday in-bound flights [3D2N].  I've already made a mock booking for the latter part of February (24 Feb to 28 Feb), and I am so tempted to buy a ticket and relive the wonder that is Beijing, although I don't know what will I do in 6 days, again.  I mean, it's costly to stay at a hotel for six days, alone.  But I'm close to buying tickets now...Must restrain myself.  [Edited to add: I almost clicked the confirmation button after I entered my passenger details.  Must endure.  Must remember that I want to go to Japan next year...]

         Do check it out before those prized seats get snagged!

         Happy travel planning!


    Manila Chronicles: Winter Clothes Shopping at HMR, Pioneer

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


    Update: 09 November 2011 - I went to HMR last weekend and they're having a sale.  However, the winter clothes left are few.  You can now find the clothing section on the 2nd floor.



         I have noticed that my post about winter clothes shopping is slowly rising to the top of the most popular entries.  Maybe because it's winter already in other parts of the world and Filipinos are flocking to those countries with snow; i.e., Korea, Japan, Canada, the US, etc.  

         When I went to Beijing, I only had minimal winter clothes.  I have a trench coat which I asked a dressmaker to create for me, a sleeveless beige jacket with hood with faux shearling lining (the trendy one),  and a fleece jacket which I bought from Winterhouse in Cartimar, Pasay, and a trench-like cardigan I bought from H&M in Hong Kong.  The rest are just normal summer clothes (the ones I use here in the Philippines, a country with almost a year-long summer).  So, I planned to buy some items in Beijing, but my luggage could not accommodate thick jackets anymore; it was filled to the brim.  Oh well, it was a pity since winter clothes are reasonably priced there.

        So, anyway, I went out around lunchtime today to go to HMR, just to pick up some items.  HMR is a surplus shop located in Pioneer, Mandaluyong City.  I was supposed to buy a L.A.M.B sneakers which just sells for Php 790.00 but I ended up buying a Jantzen bathing suit and some summer skorts (skirts with shorts inside).  While busy choosing some surplus summer outfits, my eyes strayed to a clothing rack at the far end, and by golly, HMR has some very good looking winter jackets!  Who knew?!  They have the slim type sleeveless puffer jacket with faux fur lining in glorious white and a velvety-type jacket with shearling-like lining (in choco brown or beige) which is so cute.  And it's only Php 790.00!  And there are some Kenneth Cole blazer-type short winter jackets in black, white, and navy.  It has puffer sort of lining inside, very warm, and it's very chic and trendy, and it sells for Php 1990.00.  And there are also some London Fog wind breaker in colorful varieties: yellow, purple, and green, which sells for the same price (it's sort of a short, fitted trench).  In fact, they even have a snow bib, whatever that may be (it's like a jumper, really).

         While the winter clothes aren't that plenty, they're more fashionable than those found at the Winterhouse.  The clothes look something like these:




          The snow bib I'm referring to is on the right side.  The picture came from HMR's website.  Apparently, it's insulated.  The photo on the left looks a little like the puffer jacket I saw, only, the stitching is made in diamond-like pattern, and the closure's not the same.  Also, the puffer jacket at HMR is a lot slimmer than the one in the picture.  It looks really hip and young.  The photo on the middle is similar to the shearling-like short jacket at HMR, although if I remember correctly, it has a standing collar and the zipper has small fur balls and it looks so kawaii.  The Winterhouse in Cartimar also has a similar jacket; a short one and a long one but it sells for around Php 1500.00 to Php 3000.00 depending on the length and on your haggling skills. The sizes of the shearling-like jackets from HMR, however, are from size 7-10 (medium), and the biggest is 14 (large).  There's a pink one for a child, but it's damaged.  The puffer-jacket has only one size, or rather, they only carry a single size; I think it fits a smaller to medium frame.  As for the Kenneth Cole women's blazer/short belted jacket, it comes in bigger sizes like XL.  The London Fog jackets look a like they're all in large sizes.

         HMR Philippines is located at Pioneer corner Reliance Street, Mandaluyong City.  For directions, check their website HERE.




         In case you're wondering how the trench dress I had custom-made for me looks like, this is the pattern used, from Rakuten, a very popular Japanese on-line store:


         Happy winter clothes shopping!


    [TIP: You can also find winter wear at Greenhills; branded overruns as well as snug-fitting thermals (top & leggings). The bottoms sold at Winterhouse are more like fitted jammies or jogging pants with those 2 or 3 inch elastic ends of some sort.]

    Saturday, 26 December 2015

    Hotels and Accommodations

         For some reason, I haven't been able to blog about hotels and accommodations despite the fact that these are integral to traveling.  I guess, I just didn't want to unnecessarily promote the hotels I have been to.  However, if blogging about it would be of help to anyone, I should start to do so right now.

        As a primer, I usually stay at 3 to 5-star hotels; I haven't stayed at a hostel, yet.  Perhaps if I'm traveling alone again, I might, to save money.

         Here are the hotels I have stayed at during my travels around Asia.  I'll blog separately and post my personal pictures sometime soon.  I didn't have a problem with any of these hotels; if there were any, perhaps, just about minor details that wouldn't detract me from staying at these hotels again.  Maybe, I am just too easy to please.  It's just that I know what to expect for the price I paid.  If I paid a sum for a three-star hotel, I wouldn't expect a five-star service and accommodation.  For example, the Panda Hotel is a good three-star hotel; it's clean, but it's small and rather far from the city center but it's really cheap.  On the other hand, the Langham Place is sublimely lovely; the rooms are bigger than the Panda, the bathroom as well, the view very interesting and the bed's super comfortable.  Plus, it's located in Mongkok.  However, it's really pricey.  For the cost I paid, I got my money's worth.  Of course, there were a few surprises when the hotel was better than expected.


         BANGKOK, Thailand            -     Hotel Ibis Siam (now All Seasons Bangkok) in March 2008;

         SINGAPORE                       -     Albert Courtyard Hotel in October 2008;

         KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia   -     The Zon Residences Hotel in October 2008;

         HONGKONG, China           -     Panda Hotel and the Langham Place in May 2009;

         MACAU, China                   -     The Venetian and Casa Real in May 2009;

         SINGAPORE                      -     Pan Pacific Hotel Marina in October 2009;

         BANGKOK, Thailand          -     Amari Watergate Hotel in March 2010;

         TAIPEI, Taiwan                  -     Delight Hotel in June 2010;

         HONGKONG, China           -     Kimberley Hotel in September 2010;

         BEIJING, China                  -     Courtyard by Marriot and Hotel Kapok in November 2010.


           Happy travel planning!

    Friday, 25 December 2015

    Beijing Adventures - Day 1: Buffet Lunch at Tai Yi Chun

      

         One thing I love about China tours are the lunch and dinner included in the package.  I mean, China tours are by no means cheap [we had to pay a handsome sum of USD 420.00+ per person for a three-day tour and 6 days, 5 nights accommodation, which excludes the airfare and tips].  However, if you factor in the lunch and dinner they provide, plus refreshments at times, and the transportation, you'd realize that you don't have to spend for anything during the trip.  After all, the lunch and dinner are so filling and delicious that you won't feel hunger pangs at any given time during the tour.  And, since it isn't summer, the need for water isn't that compelling.  I couldn't remember a day when I had to drink water, tea or soda while on tour, except when dining.
       
         For the first day of tour, we had lunch at Tai Yi Restaurant, and it was buffet!  I wasn't hungry at all because we had buffet breakfast at the hotel, but well, I had to eat because we still have a long day ahead of us.  The food was really yummy, especially the kung pao chicken (it was spicy but I ate a spoonful), and the sweet and sour pork.

         We had a late lunch; and surprisingly, some of the westerners we saw at the Forbidden City come in to the restaurant after we did (they're part of a large tour group).  Small world, eh.   Good thing we got there first; the line at the buffet table suddenly got long.

         This is where we ate, somewhere near this street: Xinjiangongmen Road, not too far away from the Summer Palace.



     

     
         The restaurant has a huge lawn with trees...it was kinda romantic outside, really.  Maybe because I love trees.




          Right after lunch, we went to the Summer Palace. Yipee!

    A Future Trip to Boracay

         I'm probably one of the few local tourists who haven't been to Boracay, ever.  As you may well know, Boracay is a top tourist destination, for local and international travelers alike.  White, sandy beaches, varying hues of blue waters, beautiful sunset, and relentless partying come summer.  I love the beach, even though I cannot swim, but I do like to frolic in the sand, dip in the cool sea, and just stare at the beauty of nature.  However, I find going to Boracay a tedious process.  You must board a plane to Caticlan, and then ride a boat or something going to the beach.  Also, it's [overly] crowded during the summer and I'm not a party-person.  I'd love to have a more serene atmosphere you see.

         By a stroke of luck, I won a trip to Boracay, all expenses paid, during our Christmas party.  Now, I don't have a reason not to go to Boracay.  I think I'd like to go there in February, but not during March and April.  Let's see if I get the time to go there.  I'll have something to blog about if my Boracay trip pushes through .     

         Wish me luck!


    Merry Christmas, Everyone!

         I know, it's quite late to greet a Merry Christmas.  In fact, it's the 26th already in our country.  However, it's still Christmas in some parts of the world, right?

         Ever wondered how do I look? Am I a girl or a boy? Do I look creepy or not?  Well, for a limited time offer (it's as if I'm selling something on home tv channel, eh), I'm posting a photo of myself taken during my trip to Beijing.  I'll post it for a few minutes, just so you know I'm a real person who goes to all these places.  For now, let me say my apologies; I am not much to look at. [Edited to add: I deleted the picture already].

         Happy Holidays, dear readers!


     [Candy cane photo by City of Blackbirds
    cutouts and textures from the Coffeeshop Blog; 



    Merry Christmas!



         I've been having a hard time using the Internet. Our connection has suddenly become so slow, like dial-up slow. Maybe because it's Christmas?!

         Anyway, I know I've been slacking off the past few months and that I haven't been up to the task of completing my travel adventures. I've been busy with work lately but I might be able to wrap up my blogging tasks before the year ends. This week, to be exact. I will also try my best to watch and blog about the Hidden Cities season 2, but for some reason, I always forget to catch it on tv. All I've watched was the episode on China's Yangtze river and the Grand Canal that I've been dreaming of visiting. Well, Shanghai's going to be my main destination and I'd like a side trip there plus to the West lake.

         Enough of my day dreaming. I must greet all of you a very Merry Christmas before I forget why I wrote this entry.

         Happy Holidays!

    Thursday, 24 December 2015

    Beijing Adventures: Day 1 - Forbidden City




         So, after taking our time walking in Tiananmen Square, we went down to an underpass to reach the gate of the Forbidden City.  The underpass has strict security, too.  When we reached the other side, the water fountains came to life one by one and the cutest rainbow was formed; it's backdrop was the sky's vivid blues.  Again, thanks for the strong, chilly winds.  I gushed and clapped happily like a child.  Who wouldn't?  However, the fountains were spraying water like rain and reluctantly, we marched toward the gate, lest we get a cold.




            There were a lot of people entering the gates, but I guess not as much people as in summer, so the crowd was bearable.  Besides, it was cold, so I wasn't concerned about the heat (I perspire easily, that is why).  So, as we near the gate, Chairman Mao's painting at the gate looks gargantuan, and in fact, it is.  It is so huge that it seems bigger, if not really bigger, than the gate itself.




          After entering the gate, you must walk through a small courtyard of some sorts with vendors and shops and a small parking lot.  At the end, is the gate where tickets are needed.  When we were there, for some reason, the police or guards of some sort were congregated in that place and they were posted everywhere at the parking lot every two meters or so.    




         And so, we finally entered, and what we saw was simply astonishing.  The details, the gleaming roofs, the ancient silk tapestry, the craftsmanship...all these were so beautiful.  No wonder people were concentrated on the doors of the famous halls, trying to get a peek into the lives of the emperors, empresses, courtesans, court officials and everybody else who lived inside the Forbidden City.  It was really fascinating.  I could have learned more had I listened to our tour guide.  But I was so busy marveling at everything that I didn't pay attention to what the guide was telling us.  My bad.


     
             









         After an endless hall-hopping, we finally came towards the end.   By the way, the Forbidden City's huge!  My friend was constantly asking, "are we near the exit?"  When we're finally near the exit, we thought that there's nothing more to see but to our surprise, a huge tree with branches that look intertwined in an embrace was stealing the show.  Or, is it a couple tree, meaning, it's composed of two trees?  I'm not so sure because I wasn't paying attention to the tour guide.  [Folk, pay attention to your guide.  Don't follow my lead].  A lot of people, couples, especially, were having their pictures taken; apparently, if you're with your beloved, you'd have a long and lasting relationship or something.  We didn't have significant others in our lives but that didn't deter us from having our photos taken.




         Wow, I never thought I had this many pictures taken.  I still have a lot which I didn't include here.  I guess, I was too shutter-happy.  After visiting the Forbidden City, we headed straight for lunch, and afterwards, we went to the Summer Palace and the Beijing Zoo's panda section; the details of which will be blogged in the coming days (hopefully!).

         Time really flies and it's an hour before Christmas Eve.  It's time to thank all the readers of this blog.  Thank you for taking time to view my posts, and I hope to help anyway I could.   Merry Christmas, everybody! 










    Wednesday, 16 December 2015

    Thoughts - New Philippine Peso Bills

         Yesterday, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas unveiled the new Philippine Peso Bills.  There are significant changes: the color saturation is deeper, the persons featured on the bills are made to look younger, way younger (President Quezon looks like in his 20's, while Presidents Osmena, Roxas and Macapagal look like in their 40's.  The new Php 500 now has President Cory Aquino, together with her husband, who happens to be the incumbent President's parents.  The dorsal of the new bills are also new.  

         I hope this helps travelers to the country not to get confused with the new bills which will be in circulation this month.





    Friday, 11 December 2015

    Tiger Airway's Manila-NAIA to Singapore Seat Sale [09 Dec to 15 Dec 2010]






         I'm not much a fan of Tiger Airways.  They don't have free check-in luggage; you have to pay for it.  And while their sales have a very low base price [for this sale it's USD 15, one-way], but their taxes amount to treble the seat fare [lowest fare is around USD 105 for this sale, roundtrip].  But it's still a cheaper alternative.  So, happy travel planning.




    Latest deals from Philippines!
    departing from Manila - Clark (DMIA)
    Singapore from US$29^
    departing from Manila (NAIA)
    Singapore from US$15Perth ** from US$234

    Seair Seatsale: Sweet Early Summer Promo [10-12 Dec 2010]

      


         Batanes is one of my dream destinations.  And Seair has a monopoly on commercial flights to and from Basco, Batanes.  So, fares are higher.  But they're having a seat sale for summer next year.  Almost Php 7,000.00 per pax, RT.


    N.B. From Seair's website:

    Sweet Early Summer Promo

     Selling Period: 10-12DEC
    Travel Period: 01APR-31MAY2011



    Destinations:
          MNLMPH 935
          CEBMPH 935
          CRKMPH 1135
          MNLTBH 535
          MNLENI 3235
          MNLRZP 3235
          MNLBSO 2835
       

    * Exclusive of Insurance, VAT and Aviation security fee


    SEAIR's Boracay flight experience is enhanced by complimentary transfers from Caticlan airport to Boracay and vice versa, shortest queues and check-in procedures at the airport, fastest baggage claim, privileges for boarding pass holders in partner establishments in Boracay and Manila, and 35-minute fastest flights to Boracay.
    ....................................................................................................................................................................................
    SEAIR resumes flights to Palawan, operating on December 1 to Taytay and El Nido in Northern Palawan, two of the country's prime tourist destinations.
     
    Taytay is the gateway to Apulit Island Resort while flights to El Nido service Lagen Island Resort and Miniloc Island Resort.  The flights will be operated in partnership with Ten Knots Development Corporation, owner of El Nido Resorts.
     
    Like its two sister resorts in El Nido, Apulit Island Resort boasts of an unspoilt environment with a beautiful expansive white sand beach, a wealth of wildlife and colorful marine life and scenic landscapes. The resort has a total of 50 water cottages equipped with intercom, hot/cold shower, and bath amenities. Contructed in traditional Filipino architectural style, the cottages are built on stilts, perched above the sea with an unobstructed view of Taytay Bay, surrounding islands and dramatic limestone cliffs.
     
    SEAIR offers a special promo for flights from Manila - Taytay / El Nido v.v. One way fare can be availed at Php 2,385.00 valid from April 1 - May 31, 2011 travel.
     
    ....................................................................................................................................................................................
     
    Batanes, the only place in the Philippines that experiences four seasons, with autumn in September to November, winter from December to February, spring from March to May, and summer from June to August, has the pastoral setting and a more laid-back way of life found attractive by both local and foreign tourists.
     
    SEAIR offers a special promo for flights from Manila - Basco v.v. One way fare starts from Php 2,835.00 valid from April 1 - May 31, 2011 travel.
     
    ...................................................................................................................................................................................
     
    Selling period: December 10-12,2010
    Travel period: April 1 - May 31, 2011
     
    For inquiries, call +632/ 849 0100 or book online www.FlySeair.com. For packages, call SEAIR Leisure Escape Packages at +632/ 8437308 or +632/ 8490111. Join SEAIR Facebook Fan Page for updates on promos.


          Happy travel planning!

    PAL Midnight Special - Seat Sale [12 Dec 2010; 12MN to 6AM (GMT +8)]


    N.B.  From PAL's website:


    PAL Midnight Special
    Let our surprise treats perk up your Saturday late night and Sunday early morning!

    PAL Midnight Special runs every Sunday from 12:01 am to 6:00 am (Manila time). Valid only at www.philippineairlines.com.  Limited seats only!

    Selected Regional flights To Manila

    To
    MANILA
    Travel
    Dates
    (Outbound)
    Base
    Fare
    Surcharges
    (YQ) +
    Est.
    Taxes
    Total
    (Fare+
    YQ+
    Taxes)
    FIESTA (ECONOMY) CLASS Minimum/Maximum days: 2 days/8 days
    Fare Family:  Fiesta Deal
    Fare Basis: 
     Bangkok – WEBNYTX/UWEBNYTX
     Other destinations - WEBNYTX
    Bangkok25-26DEC10**THB 2,330.00THB 3,840.00THB 6,170.00
    THB 2,920.00THB 6,760.00
    Hong Kong14-21DEC10HKD 730.00*HKD 360.00HKD 1,090.00
     Ho Chi Minh
    (Saigon)
    25DEC10**USD 68.00USD 118.00USD 186.00
    Taipei14-21DEC10TWD 2,000.00TWD 1,508.00TWD 3,508.00
     
    *Inclusive of HKG security surcharge
    ** Flight restrictions: For Bangkok and Ho Chi Minh (Saigon), inbound travel permitted only on 31DEC10-01JAN11

    Notes: 
    -Fares are based in the currency of the country of departure
    -Fares are INCLUSIVE of surcharges and estimated taxes. Other airport fees and charges are not included. 
    -Fare amounts are subject to change due to conversion rates. 
     
    Fare Conditions:
    • Valid on Fiesta Economy class
    • Flight application - Valid on any PR flight
    • Changes are not permitted
    • Fare and surcharges are non-refundable
    • No child discount/Infant without Seat 10% of adult fare
    • Free Baggage Allowance: 15 kilograms 
    • Mileage Accrual : 25%
    • Service Class Award Upgrade not permitted

    Selected Regional flights From Manila
    From
    MANILA
    Travel
    Dates
    (Outbound)
    Base
    Fare
    in USD
     Surcharges
    (YQ) +
    Est.
    Taxes
    Total
    (Fare+
    YQ+
    Taxes)
    in USD
    FIESTA (ECONOMY) CLASS
    Minimum/Maximum days: 
     Melbourne/Sydney - 2 days/30 days
     Other destinations - 2 days/8 days
    Fare Family: Fiesta Deal
    Fare Basis:
     Bangkok/Hong Kong - WEBNITE/UWEBNITE 
     Guam - UWEBNITE
     Other destinations - WEBNITE
    Bangkok31DEC10-01JAN1178.00127.20205.20
    98.00225.20
    Beijing14-17DEC10
    31DEC10-15JAN11
    128.00113.50241.50
    Guam13-25DEC10168.00100.36268.36
    Hong Kong14-21DEC1076.00*65.50141.50
    96.00*161.50
    Ho Chi Minh
    (Saigon)
    31DEC10-01JAN1168.0098.00166.00
    Macau15DEC1068.0063.80131.80
    Melbourne14-28DEC10360.00 308.00668.00
     Shanghai 14-31DEC10108.00 113.50221.50
    Sydney14-28DEC10360.00327.10687.10
    MABUHAY (BUSINESS) CLASS Minimum/Maximum days:
    Melbourne/Sydney – 2days/30days
     Other destinations - 2 days/8 days
    Fare Family: Mabuhay Classic
    Fare Basis:
     All destinations – ZWEBNITE
     Bangkok31DEC10-01JAN11308.00127.20435.20
     Beijing14-17DEC10
    31DEC10-15JAN11
    498.00113.50611.50
     Guam13-25DEC10458.00100.36558.36
     Hong Kong14-21DEC10312.00*65.50377.50
    Ho Chi Minh
    (Saigon)
    31DEC10-01JAN11348.0098.00446.00
    Melbourne14-28DEC101,608.00308.001,916.00
     Shanghai14-31DEC10458.00113.50571.50
    Sydney14-28DEC101,608.00327.101,935.10
     
    *Inclusive of HKG security surcharge
    Notes: 
    -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:
    Fiesta (Economy) class
    • Flight application:  
      Manila to Hong Kong
       WEBNITE: Outbound valid on PR306/310 only/Inbound valid on any PR flight
       UWEBNITE: Valid on any PR flight
      Manila to Melbourne/Sydney - Outbound valid on PR209/211 only/
      Inbound valid on PR210/212 only
      All other destinations - Valid on any PR flight
    • Changes are not permitted
    • Fare and surcharges are non-refundable
    • No child discount/Infant without Seat 10% of adult fare
    • Free Baggage Allowance:
      Manila to Guam - 2 pieces
      Manila to Melbourne/Sydney – 23 kilograms
      All other destinations - 15 kilograms 
    • Mileage Accrual - 25%
    • Service Class Award Upgrade not permitted
    Mabuhay (Business) class
    • Flight application:
      Manila to Melbourne/Sydney - Outbound valid on PR209/211 only/
      Inbound valid on PR210/212 only
      All other destinations - Valid on any PR flight
    • Change fee applies
    • Refund service fee applies
    • No child discount/Infant without Seat 10% of adult fare
    • Free Baggage Allowance:
      Manila to Guam - 2 pieces
      All other destinations - 30 kilograms 
    • Mileage Accrual Applies

    Selected International flights From Manila
    From
    MANILA
    Travel
    Dates
    (Outbound)
    Base
    Fare
    in USD
     Surcharges
    (YQ) +
    Est.
    Taxes
    Total
    (Fare+
    YQ+
    Taxes)
    in USD
    FIESTA (ECONOMY) CLASS 
    Minimum/Maximum days:
    Manilato Los Angeles/San Francisco/Las Vegas/Vancouver - 3 days/3 months
    Fare Family: Fiesta Saver
    Fare Basis:
    ManilatoLos Angeles/Las Vegas/Vancouver- KWEBNITE
    Manilato Los Angeles/Las Vegas- EWEBNITE Manilato San Francisco/Vancouver - TWEBNITE
    Los Angeles 16-23DEC10888.00*286.701,174.70
    17-19DEC10608.00*894.70
    24-25DEC10608.00*894.70
    Las Vegas 16-23DEC10888.00*1,174.70
    25DEC10608.00*894.70
    San Francisco16-25DEC10588.00*874.70
     
    Vancouver
    16-23DEC10918.00**272.50 1,190.50
    13-25DEC10618.00**890.50
    MABUHAY (BUSINESS) CLASS Minimum/Maximum days: 3 days/6 months
    Fare Family: Mabuhay Classic
    Fare Basis: IWEBNITE/ZWEBNITE
    San Francisco 
    13-25DEC10
     
    2,298.00*
     
    286.70
     
    2,584.70
    Los Angeles
    Las Vegas2,098.00*286.702,384.70
    Vancouver2,128.00**272.502,400.50
    *For travel between Manila and USA, fares do not include USD56.70 U.S. Government Taxes and Fees including the September 11th Security Fee

    **Inclusive of Canadian Navigation surcharge

    Fare Conditions for International flight: 
    Fiesta (Economy) Class
    • Changes are permitted subject to applicable fee
      KWEBNITE/EWEBNITE/TWEBNITE - USD 150
    • No Show fee applies at USD 75
    • Changes - Changes must be within the validity of the ticket
      Before Departure - Ticket must be presented at the Ticket Office and shall be reissued to an applicable fare in effect during date of change (current fare). The new fare must be equal to or higher than the original fare paid. Change fee shall be collected in addition to any fare difference plus No Show fee if applicable. 
      After Departure - permitted at a charge of USD 150 for changes within the same booking class code. For changes involving a change of Booking Class code, ticket must be presented at the Ticket Office and must be reissued to an applicable fare based on the date of original ticket issuance. The new fare must be equal to or higher than the original fare paid. Change fee shall be collected in addition to any fare difference plus No Show fee if applicable.
    • Rerouting is not permitted
    • Flight Restrictions: For travel from Manila to Los Angeles from 17DEC10 to 19DEC10 outbound valid on PR112 only and for travel from 24DEC10 to 25DEC10 outbound valid on PR102 only. For travel from Manila to Vancouver from 13DEC10 to 25DEC10 outbound valid on PR116 only. For travel from Manila to Las Vegas on 25DEC10 outbound valid for PR106 only
    • Tickets and surcharges are non-refundable
      Government taxes are refundable subject to Refund Service Fee
    • Child/Infant Discount
      KWEBNITE/EWEBNITE/TWEBNITE - child discount is 80% of adult fare/Infant without Seat 25% of adult fare.
    • Mileage Accrual 
      KWEBNITE/EWEBNITE/ TWEBNITE -  100% Mileage Accrual applies/ Service class upgrade using miles and UTC not permitted 
    Mabuhay (Business) Class  
    • Changes are permitted at a charge of USD100
    • No Show fee applies at USD 75
    • Changes - Changes must be within the validity of the ticket
      Before Departure - Ticket must be presented at the Ticket Office and shall be reissued to an applicable fare in effect during date of change (current fare). The new fare must be equal to or higher than the original fare paid. Change fee shall be collected in addition to any fare difference plus No Show fee if applicable. 
      After Departure - permitted at a charge of USD 100 for changes within the same booking class code. For changes involving a change of Booking Class code, ticket must be presented at the Ticket Office and must be reissued to an applicable fare based on the date of original ticket issuance. The new fare must be equal to or higher than the original fare paid. Change fee shall be collected in addition to any fare difference plus No Show fee if applicable
    • Rerouting is not permitted
    • Refund
      Before Departure- permitted at a charge of USD 200
      After Departure - Tickets and surcharges are non-refundable
    • Government taxes are refundable subject to Refund Service Fee
    • No child discount for unaccompanied minor
      Accompanied child - 75% of adult fare
      Infant with a seat - 75% of adult fare
      Infant without a seat - 10% of adult fare
    • Mileage Accrual Applies

    Selected Domestic flights From/To Manila
     From/To MANILA Travel
    Dates
    Fare
    Basis
    Base
    Fare
    All-In Fare
    in PHP 
    ONE-WAY
    FIESTA (ECONOMY) CLASS
    Bacolod/
    Cebu/
    Iloilo/
    Kalibo/
    Laoag/
    Puerto
    Princesa/
    Roxas
     
    13DEC10-
    15MAR11
     
    PMS
    792.00888.00
    Legaspi/ 
    Tagbilaran
    882.00988.00
    Dumaguete/
    Tacloban
    1,060.001.188.00
    Dipolog1,685.001,888.00
    Ozamiz1,775.001,988.00
    Butuan/
    Cagayan
    de Oro/
    Cotabato/
    Davao/
    General Santos/
    Zamboanga
    1,864.002,088.00
    MABUHAY (BUSINESS) CLASS
    Luzon/
    Visayas
    13DEC10-
    15MAR11
    IMS3,571.004,000.00
    Mindanao4,464.005,000.00

    Note: -ALL-IN One-way fares on Economy Class are INCLUSIVE of V.A.T. but EXCLUSIVE of PHP 15.00 Aviation Security Fee (ASF).
    Fare Conditions:
    • Fare includes surcharges and 12% VAT but excludes Aviation Security Fee
    • Restricted for sales and ticketing in the Philippines
    • PMS (economy fare) is nonrefundable and non-reroutable. IMS (business class fare) refund fee is PHP 400
    • Upgrading to higher fare is permitted provided that non-refundable amount remains non-refundable.  Upgrading is allowed starting from Mabuhay Classic fare family for IMS and Fiesta Saver fare family for PMS. Rebooking on the same booking class is not allowed.
    • Change fee for rebooking due to upgrade is PHP 400 per sector for IMS and PHP 800 per sector for PMS.
    • Change fee for reissuance is PHP 400 / sector for IMS and PHP 800 / sector for PMS
    • No Show surcharge is PHP 400 / sector for IMS and PHP 600 / sector for PMS
    • Child discount/Infant discount
      • Infant without seat – 75% of the accompanying adult fare
    • Free Baggage Allowance
      • Mabuhay (Business) is 30 kgs.
      • Fiesta (Economy) is 15 kgs.
    • Mileage Accrual
      • 125 % mileage accrual for IMS
      • 25 % mileage accrual for PMS

         Happy travel planning!

    Beijing Adventures: Day 1 - Tiananmen Square

     




         Honestly, our first day in Beijing was a rather long one.  We arrived in Beijing past 12 MN, and we headed out into the city by 9 a.m.  We had a full day.  First, we went to the Tiananmen Square and then to the Forbidden City.  After which, we had a buffet lunch at a restaurant, visited a jade factory (it was included in our tour package), went to the Summer Palace and to the Zoo to see the pandas.  We wrapped up our day by eating dinner at another Chinese restaurant.   Whew!

         So, our tour guide and driver picked us up at the hotel and we went straight to Tiananmen Square.  Mind you, it was my first time to visit a foreign country during the early days of winter and I was literally fascinated by the throngs of people wearing their full winter gears: caps or ear muffs, neck scarves, mittens/gloves, bubble jackets and trench coats.  I was just wearing a scarf, summer cotton shirt, a cotton camisole, stockings and leggings underneath my trench coat: all of which I wear during summer except the trench.  But it was really, really cold.  The weather per se was bearable, but the strong winds were a killer.  But, thank God for those winds; we had majestic blue skies.




         So, the Tiananmen Square is such a huge place, a vast track of concrete surface.  There were a lot of tourists but the square was not crowded.  There was a long lcd screen which, according to the tour guide, was used to show the Olympic games.  On one side of the square, there was a very long line of people.  Apparently, it was for the mausoleum of Mao Zedong.   We didn't queue for that, perhaps because we're not Chinese, or maybe because we had a full-day schedule to follow.




          Aside from the apparent flatness in front of our eyes, the Monument to the People's Heroes stood impressively, while the Great Hall of the People can be seen on one side.  Of course, Chairman Mao's mausoleum stood nearby with a huge sculpture were people were queued.





         And of course, at the end of the Square, in front of the Forbidden City,  is the Chinese national flag fluttering mightily and proudly, guarded by guards standing on glass or transparent boxes/podiums.




         Interesting facts:

         1.  Before you could enter the Square, one has to pass through a security tent with x-ray scanners for your belongings.  I felt so secured. 

         2.  Hungry? Thristy? There are food stalls inside the Square (see the last pic above, lower right part)


         3.  Did you forget your camera?  There are photographers milling around the square (they give you a developed pic for a fee).

         4.  There are roving patrol cars in the square.

         5.  There are guards scattered all around, with stationary posts but they move a quarter turn every so often.