Thursday, October 29, 2009
Singapore
September 26 - 29, 2009
Day 1
Craving crab and excited to see my longtime friends, I boarded a Singapore Airline flight from Sydney, patiently endured the boredom brought about by 8-hour flight, and finally met up with Lala who picked me up from the airport. Upon arrival at her place, I was welcomed not only by my good friends but also by the humid hot weather of Singapore. We had a catching-up chat and after freshening up and taking a little rest, we headed to watch the famous Formula 1 race. Lala got me a 1-night ticket to the race and I was excited to go even though I'm not an F1 fan.
After a short stop at Suntec City mall, we made our way to one of the entry gates to the race site. I got myself a survival kit consisting of rain poncho and ear plugs - you really need these when you don't want your eardrums damaged by the howling noise of the race cars. As Qualifying session won't start till 10:00pm, we had a chance to watch Rivermaya perform at F1 Rocks before proceeding to the race venue itself. Not knowing who the racers are, I wanted to at least take a good shot of the cars as they pass in front of us but they were too fast that all that I could capture was the race track. :(
When the race ended, we had a good time watching Travis band at the park. After the concert, we looked for a place to eat and ended up at a side-street Chinese restaurant. Full and satisfied, we headed home around 2:00am.
Day 2
After a late breakfast, Lala, Simon, Don and I took a relaxing dip at the pool. We thought we still had time to play pingpong but it's time to leave for East Coast Seafood Centre where we would enjoy mouth-watering chilli crab. Wearing a bib while eating added to the fun. :)
After a sumptuous meal at Jumbo Seafood, we strolled around the park at the waterfront.
While the others proceeded to the race site, Anet and I spent the rest of the day strolling and shopping together. We first went to visit the National Archives of Singapore but it would be closing in 30 minutes so we were not able to explore the whole museum. We then went to Funan DigitaLife Mall, Asia's leading IT shopping mall that offers the widest range of genuine and value-for-money IT and electronic gadgets. This is where I got my new camera. It's true that electronic gadgets are cheaper in Singapore. Anet then took me to Bugis Village bazaar - a great place where you can get souvenirs and pasalubong. She also treated me to some yummy local delicacies. Tired of walking for hours at the Bugis Junction mall and around the area, we went to TCC (The Coffee Connoisseur) cafe and relaxed in the comfort of their couches while enjoying light meal and coffee. Thanks Netski for keeping me company. :)
Day 3
I started the day by catching a cab to Raffles City Shopping Centre and then had a nice breakfast at Ya Kun Kaya Toast. After hours of window-shopping, I met up with Pinky and had a great time catching up with each other over a good lunch. After lunch, we parted ways as she had to go back to work while I was on my way to Orchard to do my last-minute shopping of pasalubong. All by myself now, I just walked leisurely and hopped from mall to mall along Orchard Road - enjoyable yet tiring. I could feel that my feet were already giving up on me so I desperately looked for a seat where I could rest and relax. Looking forward to meeting my friends for dinner and drinks.
We gathered together at one of the bars in Emerald Hills. Thanks guys for a fun-filled evening. :)
Day 4
Off to the Philippines. Yay! Thanks La for accommodating me for my entire stay. :)
Day 1
Craving crab and excited to see my longtime friends, I boarded a Singapore Airline flight from Sydney, patiently endured the boredom brought about by 8-hour flight, and finally met up with Lala who picked me up from the airport. Upon arrival at her place, I was welcomed not only by my good friends but also by the humid hot weather of Singapore. We had a catching-up chat and after freshening up and taking a little rest, we headed to watch the famous Formula 1 race. Lala got me a 1-night ticket to the race and I was excited to go even though I'm not an F1 fan.
After a short stop at Suntec City mall, we made our way to one of the entry gates to the race site. I got myself a survival kit consisting of rain poncho and ear plugs - you really need these when you don't want your eardrums damaged by the howling noise of the race cars. As Qualifying session won't start till 10:00pm, we had a chance to watch Rivermaya perform at F1 Rocks before proceeding to the race venue itself. Not knowing who the racers are, I wanted to at least take a good shot of the cars as they pass in front of us but they were too fast that all that I could capture was the race track. :(
When the race ended, we had a good time watching Travis band at the park. After the concert, we looked for a place to eat and ended up at a side-street Chinese restaurant. Full and satisfied, we headed home around 2:00am.
Day 2
After a late breakfast, Lala, Simon, Don and I took a relaxing dip at the pool. We thought we still had time to play pingpong but it's time to leave for East Coast Seafood Centre where we would enjoy mouth-watering chilli crab. Wearing a bib while eating added to the fun. :)
After a sumptuous meal at Jumbo Seafood, we strolled around the park at the waterfront.
While the others proceeded to the race site, Anet and I spent the rest of the day strolling and shopping together. We first went to visit the National Archives of Singapore but it would be closing in 30 minutes so we were not able to explore the whole museum. We then went to Funan DigitaLife Mall, Asia's leading IT shopping mall that offers the widest range of genuine and value-for-money IT and electronic gadgets. This is where I got my new camera. It's true that electronic gadgets are cheaper in Singapore. Anet then took me to Bugis Village bazaar - a great place where you can get souvenirs and pasalubong. She also treated me to some yummy local delicacies. Tired of walking for hours at the Bugis Junction mall and around the area, we went to TCC (The Coffee Connoisseur) cafe and relaxed in the comfort of their couches while enjoying light meal and coffee. Thanks Netski for keeping me company. :)
Day 3
I started the day by catching a cab to Raffles City Shopping Centre and then had a nice breakfast at Ya Kun Kaya Toast. After hours of window-shopping, I met up with Pinky and had a great time catching up with each other over a good lunch. After lunch, we parted ways as she had to go back to work while I was on my way to Orchard to do my last-minute shopping of pasalubong. All by myself now, I just walked leisurely and hopped from mall to mall along Orchard Road - enjoyable yet tiring. I could feel that my feet were already giving up on me so I desperately looked for a seat where I could rest and relax. Looking forward to meeting my friends for dinner and drinks.
We gathered together at one of the bars in Emerald Hills. Thanks guys for a fun-filled evening. :)
Day 4
Off to the Philippines. Yay! Thanks La for accommodating me for my entire stay. :)
Sunday, August 02, 2009
Alpine Snow Adventure '09
July 17 - 19, 2009
Never did a year pass since my first winter in Australia that I didn't go to the Snowy Mountains. It was my fourth time this year but thinking about being away from the city for a couple of days plus travelling and having fun times with good friends still brought excitement to the trip. I couldn't say it's the thought of re-experiencing the thrill of skiing or snowboarding because all that I had guts to do this time was ride a toboggan down the hill. :)
Leaving Sydney at past 7:00am, we stopped over in Canberra for a picnic lunch and some sightseeing. Visited Old and New Parliament houses. After spending a fair amount of time at the national capital, we drove for another 2 hours and reached Adventist Alpine Village around 6:00pm. The guys checked the game room but were disappointed to find out that it was locked. That meant no pingpong for the addicts like me.
The next day we made our way to Perisher Blue. The cool breeze of the wind added to the chill of already cold mountain air. We reckoned it was our coldest visit to the Snowies ever. While most of us had fun tobogganing, Dee and Ronnie went to steeper and longer slope for snowboarding. After enjoying the snow, we treat ourselves to hot chocolate to warm up - perfect for a freezing cold afternoon!
Never did a year pass since my first winter in Australia that I didn't go to the Snowy Mountains. It was my fourth time this year but thinking about being away from the city for a couple of days plus travelling and having fun times with good friends still brought excitement to the trip. I couldn't say it's the thought of re-experiencing the thrill of skiing or snowboarding because all that I had guts to do this time was ride a toboggan down the hill. :)
Leaving Sydney at past 7:00am, we stopped over in Canberra for a picnic lunch and some sightseeing. Visited Old and New Parliament houses. After spending a fair amount of time at the national capital, we drove for another 2 hours and reached Adventist Alpine Village around 6:00pm. The guys checked the game room but were disappointed to find out that it was locked. That meant no pingpong for the addicts like me.
The next day we made our way to Perisher Blue. The cool breeze of the wind added to the chill of already cold mountain air. We reckoned it was our coldest visit to the Snowies ever. While most of us had fun tobogganing, Dee and Ronnie went to steeper and longer slope for snowboarding. After enjoying the snow, we treat ourselves to hot chocolate to warm up - perfect for a freezing cold afternoon!
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Jervis Bay
April 10 - 13, 2009
Having a 4-day long weekend on Easter Holiday - that starts from Good Friday and ends on Easter Monday - we decided to set forth for a laid back trip to the South Coast. The night before we left, we were busy looking for a fishing rod and got one that comes with a set of fake baits that look like real small fishes, worms, frogs and jelly fishes. I wondered if these colourful thingies would be enough to entice a fish.
Day 1
For the record, Beng and I arrived first at the meeting place (McDonald's) at 5:45AM. After brekky, I prepared myself for what was going to be my longest drive ever. We had a stopover at Morton National Park, home to Fitzroy Falls. I wouldn't have minded being behind the wheels for more than 3 hours, but what brought me thrill was driving along a crooked winding country road that lasted for almost an hour.
We arrived in Sanctuary Point before lunchtime, unpacked our things, and prepared and had lunch before heading to the lagoon for fishing - well, at least to practice operating the rod and reel, tying a hook to a line, and throwing the bait to the water. It was our first time to try fishing so we didn't mind going back to the house empty-handed.
After dinner, we played table tennis and billiards then gathered at the living room to watch 'Confessions of a Shopaholic' and 'The Passion of the Christ'.
Day 2
The next morning, not wanting to give up fishing, we drove towards the other side of St George's Basin hoping to catch something for lunch or dinner. The boys tried their chance - but still came back without a catch in their hand - while the girls just played Boggle and Jenga.
After having a picnic for lunch, we proceeded to Huskisson to check out the events and bargains at the carnival. We were talking about childhood games when Chinese Garter came to mind. So we desperately looked for a shop that sells garter or rubber bands. When we luckily found one, we excitedly paid for the rubber bands and chained them together. And then the fun began! Playing these childhood games was really worthwhile while waiting for Dee and Kiko who went fishing.
Later at night I dozed off while watching Wolverine.
Day 3
I learned that the boys got up before dawn to go fishing (again), but came back with empty buckets. (That's all right guys. It may just be not the right season to fish.)
Easter Egg Hunt
After breakfast we celebrated Easter by holding Easter Egg Hunt - using egg chocolates. We had to hurry and get them all before they melt in the sun! It was so fun searching for the hidden eggs, not minding bumping into each other. Just when I thought I found lots of them, I ended up getting only 3! I was even more surprised when others got a dozen. But it was just fine because I was rewarded for finding one of the 4 biggest eggs :).
Hyams Beach
Before lunchtime we headed to Hyams Beach - which is reported as having the whitest sand in the world. The beach amazed us with its long stretch of white sand and blue water. Aaah.. I really regret that I didn't try the water :(.
After lunch and siesta and when the others had enough of swimming, we spent the afternoon playing patintero, limbo rock and Chinese Garter (again). It was funny that the guys could also play them well.
Playing pingpong till midnight completed our day.
Day 4
After cleaning up, we checked out and left for Sydney at 9:30AM. When we hit heavy traffic, Joy threw us a bag of buns from their car window.. hmmm good for our starving stomach :).
It was a good thing that we didn't take the long winding road on our way back. I could only imagine how challenging it would be driving up and down the mountains while it was raining hard. We stopped over at McDonald's for lunch. Our 4-day getaway was over. We may be frustrated fishers but a fresh catch could not surpass the fun that we had together. We can go fishing some other time anyway. :)
Having a 4-day long weekend on Easter Holiday - that starts from Good Friday and ends on Easter Monday - we decided to set forth for a laid back trip to the South Coast. The night before we left, we were busy looking for a fishing rod and got one that comes with a set of fake baits that look like real small fishes, worms, frogs and jelly fishes. I wondered if these colourful thingies would be enough to entice a fish.
Day 1
For the record, Beng and I arrived first at the meeting place (McDonald's) at 5:45AM. After brekky, I prepared myself for what was going to be my longest drive ever. We had a stopover at Morton National Park, home to Fitzroy Falls. I wouldn't have minded being behind the wheels for more than 3 hours, but what brought me thrill was driving along a crooked winding country road that lasted for almost an hour.
We arrived in Sanctuary Point before lunchtime, unpacked our things, and prepared and had lunch before heading to the lagoon for fishing - well, at least to practice operating the rod and reel, tying a hook to a line, and throwing the bait to the water. It was our first time to try fishing so we didn't mind going back to the house empty-handed.
After dinner, we played table tennis and billiards then gathered at the living room to watch 'Confessions of a Shopaholic' and 'The Passion of the Christ'.
Day 2
The next morning, not wanting to give up fishing, we drove towards the other side of St George's Basin hoping to catch something for lunch or dinner. The boys tried their chance - but still came back without a catch in their hand - while the girls just played Boggle and Jenga.
After having a picnic for lunch, we proceeded to Huskisson to check out the events and bargains at the carnival. We were talking about childhood games when Chinese Garter came to mind. So we desperately looked for a shop that sells garter or rubber bands. When we luckily found one, we excitedly paid for the rubber bands and chained them together. And then the fun began! Playing these childhood games was really worthwhile while waiting for Dee and Kiko who went fishing.
Later at night I dozed off while watching Wolverine.
Day 3
I learned that the boys got up before dawn to go fishing (again), but came back with empty buckets. (That's all right guys. It may just be not the right season to fish.)
Easter Egg Hunt
After breakfast we celebrated Easter by holding Easter Egg Hunt - using egg chocolates. We had to hurry and get them all before they melt in the sun! It was so fun searching for the hidden eggs, not minding bumping into each other. Just when I thought I found lots of them, I ended up getting only 3! I was even more surprised when others got a dozen. But it was just fine because I was rewarded for finding one of the 4 biggest eggs :).
Hyams Beach
Before lunchtime we headed to Hyams Beach - which is reported as having the whitest sand in the world. The beach amazed us with its long stretch of white sand and blue water. Aaah.. I really regret that I didn't try the water :(.
After lunch and siesta and when the others had enough of swimming, we spent the afternoon playing patintero, limbo rock and Chinese Garter (again). It was funny that the guys could also play them well.
Playing pingpong till midnight completed our day.
Day 4
After cleaning up, we checked out and left for Sydney at 9:30AM. When we hit heavy traffic, Joy threw us a bag of buns from their car window.. hmmm good for our starving stomach :).
It was a good thing that we didn't take the long winding road on our way back. I could only imagine how challenging it would be driving up and down the mountains while it was raining hard. We stopped over at McDonald's for lunch. Our 4-day getaway was over. We may be frustrated fishers but a fresh catch could not surpass the fun that we had together. We can go fishing some other time anyway. :)
Friday, April 24, 2009
Colour Conference '09
March 26 - 28, 2009
It was my first time to attend the Colour Your World Women's Conference (a.k.a Colour Conference), an annual Christian conference hosted by Hillsong Church. Held at the Sydney Entertainment Centre this year, the message of the gathering was about being empowered to be the change. Not only I was moved by the teachings and message behind the speakers' words, but the videos shown in between opened my eyes to realisations that in some parts of the world, children and women are impoverished and being abused in ways that are beyond that which we can imagine. It was truly heartbreaking but hopes still rise knowing that together with Compassion - a child sponsorship organisation - the church can help children from any part of the world to live a normal life, and through Sisterhood the women of the church can give support and aid to the hurting people of the world.
It was also great to be in the company of my girlfriends on occasion like this, and having fun times together at break. Before the 3-day conference ended, each and everyone was handed a knitting kit as souvenir and we were encouraged to make it into something useful. None of my friends know how to knit so it's going to be a challenge. I wonder if anyone has at least unpacked the yarn and sticks? :)
Thanks Beng for the photos. :)
It was my first time to attend the Colour Your World Women's Conference (a.k.a Colour Conference), an annual Christian conference hosted by Hillsong Church. Held at the Sydney Entertainment Centre this year, the message of the gathering was about being empowered to be the change. Not only I was moved by the teachings and message behind the speakers' words, but the videos shown in between opened my eyes to realisations that in some parts of the world, children and women are impoverished and being abused in ways that are beyond that which we can imagine. It was truly heartbreaking but hopes still rise knowing that together with Compassion - a child sponsorship organisation - the church can help children from any part of the world to live a normal life, and through Sisterhood the women of the church can give support and aid to the hurting people of the world.
It was also great to be in the company of my girlfriends on occasion like this, and having fun times together at break. Before the 3-day conference ended, each and everyone was handed a knitting kit as souvenir and we were encouraged to make it into something useful. None of my friends know how to knit so it's going to be a challenge. I wonder if anyone has at least unpacked the yarn and sticks? :)
Thanks Beng for the photos. :)
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
David's 1st Birthday Costume Party
March 22, 2009
Weeks before Jore and Pam's little David's 1st birthday celebration, I guess all the guests were busy preparing for their costume by all means - improvising or shopping. Desperately, I surfed the net and came across this Pocahontas costume with matching boots cover. I knew that the smallest available size would still be big for me but I ordered it anyway. Instead of bringing them to an alteration shop, I just altered them myself to save money hehe. Who would think it took me almost a day to finish up my hand sewing.. whew.
It was nice to see everybody in their costume. Who else would lead the creativity of this party but the Bat family - Batman, Catwoman and Robin a.k.a David, the handsome birthday boy. Hosted by Joy in a cute Minnie Mouse dress, the party was loaded with fun and games (for the kids). The awarding of the best in costume added to the excitement. Ronnie as Jack Sparrow, who led the pirates that dominated the venue, stood out among those that were awarded and was commended for being very creative in improvising. Boydon family donning Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse and Little Minnie Mouse costume won the prize in Family category. Yours truly didn't go home empty-handed. :)
Reyes Family portraying Batman, Catwoman and Robin
Weeks before Jore and Pam's little David's 1st birthday celebration, I guess all the guests were busy preparing for their costume by all means - improvising or shopping. Desperately, I surfed the net and came across this Pocahontas costume with matching boots cover. I knew that the smallest available size would still be big for me but I ordered it anyway. Instead of bringing them to an alteration shop, I just altered them myself to save money hehe. Who would think it took me almost a day to finish up my hand sewing.. whew.
It was nice to see everybody in their costume. Who else would lead the creativity of this party but the Bat family - Batman, Catwoman and Robin a.k.a David, the handsome birthday boy. Hosted by Joy in a cute Minnie Mouse dress, the party was loaded with fun and games (for the kids). The awarding of the best in costume added to the excitement. Ronnie as Jack Sparrow, who led the pirates that dominated the venue, stood out among those that were awarded and was commended for being very creative in improvising. Boydon family donning Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse and Little Minnie Mouse costume won the prize in Family category. Yours truly didn't go home empty-handed. :)
Reyes Family portraying Batman, Catwoman and Robin
Mouse Family
Pirates of the Carribbean
Monday, February 16, 2009
Port Stephens
Jan 25 - 26, 2009
Just few hours after arriving back in Sydney from the Philippines, not minding the lack of sleep and jet lag, I joined my friends on their trip to Port Stephens - a large natural harbour that is a 2-hour drive north-east of Sydney. Instead of leaving the next day, we left around 3:30 in the afternoon so that we could start our activities early the next morning.
We didn't book accommmodation so our first agenda was to scout for motel or apartment while on road. We were almost thinking of car camping somewhere in Nelson Bay until we rang Motto Farm Motel and were advised that there were vacant rooms that could accommodate all of us. We had to travel 40 minutes going back to Raymond Terrace, though.
Our car was first in a convoy of four. We were travelling smoothly until the GPS led us to a rough road. After following bends in the trail, we ended up on the continuation of the same highway where we entered the rough road from. Aah.. we should have taken the highway instead. Well that's what you get when the map installed on your GPS is not updated.
Few minutes after getting back on the main road again, we reached the inn at last. Had dinner and played cards while watching Australian Open on TV.
In the morning, cloudy and showery weather didn't hold us back from doing our planned activities for the day. We first went to Fisherman's Bay and tried to stop the rain by dancing the Sun Dance (got this from the movie 'A Very Special Love' hehe). Here we posed for photos and enjoyed the picturesque view from the hill.
As the main purpose of our trip was to experience 4WD Adventure Tours and sandboarding, we proceeded to Sand Dunes of Stockton Beach. We hopped on a 4WD bus that would take us to sandboarding area. Travelling the slopes of dunes was surely a breathtaking adventure.
Upon getting off the bus, each one of us got a board and then the driver taught us how to get on the thing and how to glide properly. We were excited but scared to try it for the first time. We started on a short slope and after finding it fun and exciting, we moved on to a higher and steeper slope. The thrill made us scream but still we wanted to do it over and over again, much more if it was not too tiring climbing up back to the top.
After our sand dune adventure, we drove to Shoal Bay for lunch. We then strolled around the area and enjoyed the view of the beach before heading back to Sydney.
Just few hours after arriving back in Sydney from the Philippines, not minding the lack of sleep and jet lag, I joined my friends on their trip to Port Stephens - a large natural harbour that is a 2-hour drive north-east of Sydney. Instead of leaving the next day, we left around 3:30 in the afternoon so that we could start our activities early the next morning.
We didn't book accommmodation so our first agenda was to scout for motel or apartment while on road. We were almost thinking of car camping somewhere in Nelson Bay until we rang Motto Farm Motel and were advised that there were vacant rooms that could accommodate all of us. We had to travel 40 minutes going back to Raymond Terrace, though.
Our car was first in a convoy of four. We were travelling smoothly until the GPS led us to a rough road. After following bends in the trail, we ended up on the continuation of the same highway where we entered the rough road from. Aah.. we should have taken the highway instead. Well that's what you get when the map installed on your GPS is not updated.
Few minutes after getting back on the main road again, we reached the inn at last. Had dinner and played cards while watching Australian Open on TV.
In the morning, cloudy and showery weather didn't hold us back from doing our planned activities for the day. We first went to Fisherman's Bay and tried to stop the rain by dancing the Sun Dance (got this from the movie 'A Very Special Love' hehe). Here we posed for photos and enjoyed the picturesque view from the hill.
As the main purpose of our trip was to experience 4WD Adventure Tours and sandboarding, we proceeded to Sand Dunes of Stockton Beach. We hopped on a 4WD bus that would take us to sandboarding area. Travelling the slopes of dunes was surely a breathtaking adventure.
Upon getting off the bus, each one of us got a board and then the driver taught us how to get on the thing and how to glide properly. We were excited but scared to try it for the first time. We started on a short slope and after finding it fun and exciting, we moved on to a higher and steeper slope. The thrill made us scream but still we wanted to do it over and over again, much more if it was not too tiring climbing up back to the top.
After our sand dune adventure, we drove to Shoal Bay for lunch. We then strolled around the area and enjoyed the view of the beach before heading back to Sydney.
Sunday, February 08, 2009
Marina
Jan 19, 2009
I once again had a great time meeting up with my college barkada - Pech, Carol and Rose who came with her friend, Allen. Missing the food at Marina in Glorietta, I suggested this restaurant for lunch. For sure it could be happier and wackier if all of us were able to make it.
I once again had a great time meeting up with my college barkada - Pech, Carol and Rose who came with her friend, Allen. Missing the food at Marina in Glorietta, I suggested this restaurant for lunch. For sure it could be happier and wackier if all of us were able to make it.
Saturday, February 07, 2009
RSM and Picnic Grove, Tagaytay
Jan 17, 2009
Since my nephew and nieces were not able to make it to Baguio, we planned to take them somewhere else. Been thinking of going to Enchanted Kingdom but we ended up having lunch at RSM in Tagaytay and then strolling around at Picnic Grove. Just learned that the park has now a cable car and a ride called Zipline that involves gliding along a suspended steel cable, using a pulley and climbing harness where guests soar over Taal Lake and surrounding forest for 20-30 seconds. We didn't try it, though.
Since my nephew and nieces were not able to make it to Baguio, we planned to take them somewhere else. Been thinking of going to Enchanted Kingdom but we ended up having lunch at RSM in Tagaytay and then strolling around at Picnic Grove. Just learned that the park has now a cable car and a ride called Zipline that involves gliding along a suspended steel cable, using a pulley and climbing harness where guests soar over Taal Lake and surrounding forest for 20-30 seconds. We didn't try it, though.
Thursday, February 05, 2009
Baguio
Jan 10 - 12, 2009
Two weeks after arriving in the Philippines, my family thought of a place to go and we ended up going to Baguio despite the dropping temperature. Arriving in the City of Pines around 9PM, all that we could do was to prepare and have dinner and to get some sleep.
The next morning, our first stop was PMA where we enjoyed watching drill routines of platoons of cadets.
Next stop was Camp John Hay. We didn't do much here except walk down the hills and take photos.
We then proceeded to Mines View Park where my cousins and bro enjoyed donning Igorot costume.
After lunch, we went to Botanical Garden where a group of natives joined us while we were posing for photos and then asked for P10.00 fee afterwards. We didn't even invite them to have photos with us but what could we do but to give them what they asked for. That was fun, though. This is also where we tried strawberry-flavoured taho.
We went on driving towards The Mansion. Tourists are not allowed to go inside so we just had our photos taken in front of and a little beyond the gate.
Before sunset, we went to Lourdes Grotto and climbed all the way up the stairs, counting the steps. Learned that there are more than 250 steps to reach the grotto itself.
We went to Strawberry Farm in La Trinidad the next day hoping to pick fresh strawberries but we arrived past the harvest time so we just bought some pasalubong.
None of us has been to SM Baguio before so we shopped around a bit before going down back to Manila. Everyone was exhausted after our 3-day holiday but surely all of us had fun. Oh I wish I could go on trips often with my family.
Two weeks after arriving in the Philippines, my family thought of a place to go and we ended up going to Baguio despite the dropping temperature. Arriving in the City of Pines around 9PM, all that we could do was to prepare and have dinner and to get some sleep.
The next morning, our first stop was PMA where we enjoyed watching drill routines of platoons of cadets.
Next stop was Camp John Hay. We didn't do much here except walk down the hills and take photos.
We then proceeded to Mines View Park where my cousins and bro enjoyed donning Igorot costume.
After lunch, we went to Botanical Garden where a group of natives joined us while we were posing for photos and then asked for P10.00 fee afterwards. We didn't even invite them to have photos with us but what could we do but to give them what they asked for. That was fun, though. This is also where we tried strawberry-flavoured taho.
We went on driving towards The Mansion. Tourists are not allowed to go inside so we just had our photos taken in front of and a little beyond the gate.
Before sunset, we went to Lourdes Grotto and climbed all the way up the stairs, counting the steps. Learned that there are more than 250 steps to reach the grotto itself.
We went to Strawberry Farm in La Trinidad the next day hoping to pick fresh strawberries but we arrived past the harvest time so we just bought some pasalubong.
None of us has been to SM Baguio before so we shopped around a bit before going down back to Manila. Everyone was exhausted after our 3-day holiday but surely all of us had fun. Oh I wish I could go on trips often with my family.
Tuesday, February 03, 2009
Sentro and Cafe Breton
Jan 7, 2009
It has always been relaxing and exciting to spend time with good old friends giggling, chatting, reminiscing, and laughing about just anything over a good meal followed by cuppa. Below are some of the photos taken when I met up with Don, Augs, Anet and Raz during my last visit to the Philippines. We had lunch at Sentro and sat for coffee, tea and dessert at Cafe Breton in Greenbelt 3 till 3:00PM.
Talking about when and where we are holding our reunion added to the excitement. Been thinking if it's gonna be in the US or Singapore.. yippee! If only they were not busy at work, we could have more time hanging out. Super bitin! Good thing Anet was free (after her visit to the dentist) so we spent the rest of the afternoon catching up with each other. :)
It has always been relaxing and exciting to spend time with good old friends giggling, chatting, reminiscing, and laughing about just anything over a good meal followed by cuppa. Below are some of the photos taken when I met up with Don, Augs, Anet and Raz during my last visit to the Philippines. We had lunch at Sentro and sat for coffee, tea and dessert at Cafe Breton in Greenbelt 3 till 3:00PM.
Talking about when and where we are holding our reunion added to the excitement. Been thinking if it's gonna be in the US or Singapore.. yippee! If only they were not busy at work, we could have more time hanging out. Super bitin! Good thing Anet was free (after her visit to the dentist) so we spent the rest of the afternoon catching up with each other. :)
New Year '09
What could be more joyful than spending the Holidays with family. I missed them last Christmas and there was no way that I could celebrate the New Year away from them. :)
Monday, February 02, 2009
Christmas in Gold Coast
Dec 24 - 27, 2008
Unlike in the northern part of the world where it becomes the coldest time of the year during Christmastime and where you can experience white Christmas, in Australia it is the other way around. It's just the perfect time for us to head to the beach and enjoy the summer sun.
Day 1
We boarded Virgin Blue to Gold Coast where we would celebrate Christmas. Arriving in Gold Coast Airport at 8:35AM, we hopped on a shuttle bus that would take us to Surfers Paradise. After travelling for 45 minutes, we reached Imperial Surf where we would stay for 4 days. We were not allowed to check in yet so after leaving our baggages at the locker in the hotel, we went to Centro to grab something to eat before boarding a bus to Sea World.
Sea World
We arrived in Sea World before 11:00AM. We first took the Sky High Skyway to get to the other side of the park. We could see a bird's eye view of the park's attractions while aboard this cable car. The first show that we saw was Fish Detectives at Sea Lion Theatre where clever sea lions starred in a comedic adventure. Afterwards, we tried two of the rides, The Viking's Revenge Flume Ride and The Bermuda Triangle, an adventure ride exhibiting special effects, animatronics and fibre optic technology. Both of the rides ended with fun-filled splash down. We then went to Polar Bear Shores but we failed to chance upon the bear's underwater swimming. We proceeded to watch Planet SOS in 4-D, a magical and entertaining animated film with enchanting animal stars. At 3:00PM we went to see the very entertaining Dolphin Show. We were delighted by the dolphins' amazing agility, grace and intelligence as they interact with their trainers. After the show, while the others left for the hotel, Beng, Kiko, Anne and myself preferred to stay at the park till 5:00PM to check out Shark Bay and the Aquarium. We also had the chance to see the Waterski WipeOut show showcasing the impressive skiing and wakeboarding talents of Sea World Ski Team.
Back to Surfers Paradise, we went to a supermarket to shop for our 3-day supply of food and other stuff, prepared dinner and ended the day with a mini Noche Buena, followed by moderate drinking and card games before dozing off.
Day 2
Christmas Day!
With the beach just across the street from the apartment, we got up early to jog along the shore. Theme Parks are closed on Christmas Day so we just spent the day playing cards, picnicking, playing frisbee and dodgeball on the beach. Then we had a relaxing afternoon as we were invited by Jore and Pam's friend to try the jacuzzi and pool at Mantra Sun City.
Day 3
Around 5:45AM when the sun just rose and the beach was not yet crowded, Beng, Loida and I went to the beach to try the water. Cold water didn't stop us from taking a plunge and enjoying the waves. After 30 minutes, we returned to the unit to have breakfast and get ready to leave for Movie World.
Movie World
Arriving in Movie World around 10AM, we immediately joined the queue towards DreamWorks Shrek 4D Adventure show in Roxy Theater. The experience seemed like a real-life adventure as in tandem with the 3D animation, our seats are equipped with special effects including vertical drops and horizontal motions. After the show we had the chance to watch Batman skit at Main Street. We then proceeded to watch the Live Looney Tunes show - What's Up Rock?! - an animated and interactive musical show that tells a comical tale. Our next stop was at the arena of Hollywood Stunt Driver where breathtaking stunts and precision driving are performed. We also caught the Star Parade including characters such as Austin Powers, Marilyn Monroe, Scooby Doo, Looney Tunes, Shrek and Princess Fiona, Batman and Catwoman.
Our first ride for the day was the Road Runner Rollercoaster. This one is actually for kids but I was still thrilled. We then tried the Looney Tunes River Ride and even had fun with bump cars!
We also tried the Wild West Falls Adventure Ride where we were ventured deep into the heart of a mountain and the only way out is straight down - a 70 km per hour, no brakes, 20 metre heart-stopping drop to the final splashdown.
Not getting enough of kiddie rides, we hopped on the Scooby-Doo Spooky Coaster and oh I was screaming and my eyes were closed during the entire ride! My friends were concerned that I might not manage to breathe, and poor Beng who was sitting beside me, she must have been suffering from an impaired hearing by the time the ride finished. I said to myself that I will never ride a rollercoaster again no matter how less frightening it may seem.
At the apartment, we had exchanging of gifts as part of our Christmas celebration. Well not too late because Boxing Day is being celebrated in Australia on Dec 26 which is traditionally marked by the giving of Christmas boxes or gifts. We called it a day after playing cards (1-2-3-pass) over a bottle of tequila and vodka cruiser where the loser had to take a shot. That gave me a headache the next morning.
Day 4
Though I was still sleepy and groggy, I thought of swimming as the only way to get rid of my headache. So Beng and I went down to the beach before 6:00AM. This time it was only me who took a dip as Beng went jogging. What a great refreshed feeling afterwards.
Wet 'n' Wild Water World
Wet 'n' Wild is the last theme park that we visited. Some of my friends planned to try Surfrider but when they were already in the queue, the ride stopped and they learned that there was a malfunction or some kind of mechanical problem going on.. hmmm.. not a good sign. So we just tried the Giant Wave Pool, the Mammoth Falls where four of us were together in a tube, the Super 8 Aqua Racer where we plunged head first down the lane, and the Mach 5 Sidewinder, an open air flume that rockets down a twisting path. These rides are so much fun!
We left Water World around 2pm, shopped around in Surfer's Paradise, got our things from the apartment and boarded a bus to the airport.
It was my first Christmas away from my family but with good friends around, I didn't feel so homesick at all. I'd be coming home for New Year anyway.. woohoo! :)
Unlike in the northern part of the world where it becomes the coldest time of the year during Christmastime and where you can experience white Christmas, in Australia it is the other way around. It's just the perfect time for us to head to the beach and enjoy the summer sun.
Day 1
We boarded Virgin Blue to Gold Coast where we would celebrate Christmas. Arriving in Gold Coast Airport at 8:35AM, we hopped on a shuttle bus that would take us to Surfers Paradise. After travelling for 45 minutes, we reached Imperial Surf where we would stay for 4 days. We were not allowed to check in yet so after leaving our baggages at the locker in the hotel, we went to Centro to grab something to eat before boarding a bus to Sea World.
Sea World
We arrived in Sea World before 11:00AM. We first took the Sky High Skyway to get to the other side of the park. We could see a bird's eye view of the park's attractions while aboard this cable car. The first show that we saw was Fish Detectives at Sea Lion Theatre where clever sea lions starred in a comedic adventure. Afterwards, we tried two of the rides, The Viking's Revenge Flume Ride and The Bermuda Triangle, an adventure ride exhibiting special effects, animatronics and fibre optic technology. Both of the rides ended with fun-filled splash down. We then went to Polar Bear Shores but we failed to chance upon the bear's underwater swimming. We proceeded to watch Planet SOS in 4-D, a magical and entertaining animated film with enchanting animal stars. At 3:00PM we went to see the very entertaining Dolphin Show. We were delighted by the dolphins' amazing agility, grace and intelligence as they interact with their trainers. After the show, while the others left for the hotel, Beng, Kiko, Anne and myself preferred to stay at the park till 5:00PM to check out Shark Bay and the Aquarium. We also had the chance to see the Waterski WipeOut show showcasing the impressive skiing and wakeboarding talents of Sea World Ski Team.
Back to Surfers Paradise, we went to a supermarket to shop for our 3-day supply of food and other stuff, prepared dinner and ended the day with a mini Noche Buena, followed by moderate drinking and card games before dozing off.
Day 2
Christmas Day!
With the beach just across the street from the apartment, we got up early to jog along the shore. Theme Parks are closed on Christmas Day so we just spent the day playing cards, picnicking, playing frisbee and dodgeball on the beach. Then we had a relaxing afternoon as we were invited by Jore and Pam's friend to try the jacuzzi and pool at Mantra Sun City.
Day 3
Around 5:45AM when the sun just rose and the beach was not yet crowded, Beng, Loida and I went to the beach to try the water. Cold water didn't stop us from taking a plunge and enjoying the waves. After 30 minutes, we returned to the unit to have breakfast and get ready to leave for Movie World.
Movie World
Arriving in Movie World around 10AM, we immediately joined the queue towards DreamWorks Shrek 4D Adventure show in Roxy Theater. The experience seemed like a real-life adventure as in tandem with the 3D animation, our seats are equipped with special effects including vertical drops and horizontal motions. After the show we had the chance to watch Batman skit at Main Street. We then proceeded to watch the Live Looney Tunes show - What's Up Rock?! - an animated and interactive musical show that tells a comical tale. Our next stop was at the arena of Hollywood Stunt Driver where breathtaking stunts and precision driving are performed. We also caught the Star Parade including characters such as Austin Powers, Marilyn Monroe, Scooby Doo, Looney Tunes, Shrek and Princess Fiona, Batman and Catwoman.
Our first ride for the day was the Road Runner Rollercoaster. This one is actually for kids but I was still thrilled. We then tried the Looney Tunes River Ride and even had fun with bump cars!
We also tried the Wild West Falls Adventure Ride where we were ventured deep into the heart of a mountain and the only way out is straight down - a 70 km per hour, no brakes, 20 metre heart-stopping drop to the final splashdown.
Not getting enough of kiddie rides, we hopped on the Scooby-Doo Spooky Coaster and oh I was screaming and my eyes were closed during the entire ride! My friends were concerned that I might not manage to breathe, and poor Beng who was sitting beside me, she must have been suffering from an impaired hearing by the time the ride finished. I said to myself that I will never ride a rollercoaster again no matter how less frightening it may seem.
At the apartment, we had exchanging of gifts as part of our Christmas celebration. Well not too late because Boxing Day is being celebrated in Australia on Dec 26 which is traditionally marked by the giving of Christmas boxes or gifts. We called it a day after playing cards (1-2-3-pass) over a bottle of tequila and vodka cruiser where the loser had to take a shot. That gave me a headache the next morning.
Day 4
Though I was still sleepy and groggy, I thought of swimming as the only way to get rid of my headache. So Beng and I went down to the beach before 6:00AM. This time it was only me who took a dip as Beng went jogging. What a great refreshed feeling afterwards.
Wet 'n' Wild Water World
Wet 'n' Wild is the last theme park that we visited. Some of my friends planned to try Surfrider but when they were already in the queue, the ride stopped and they learned that there was a malfunction or some kind of mechanical problem going on.. hmmm.. not a good sign. So we just tried the Giant Wave Pool, the Mammoth Falls where four of us were together in a tube, the Super 8 Aqua Racer where we plunged head first down the lane, and the Mach 5 Sidewinder, an open air flume that rockets down a twisting path. These rides are so much fun!
We left Water World around 2pm, shopped around in Surfer's Paradise, got our things from the apartment and boarded a bus to the airport.
It was my first Christmas away from my family but with good friends around, I didn't feel so homesick at all. I'd be coming home for New Year anyway.. woohoo! :)
