tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-327733092024-02-29T00:57:19.999+08:00Hungry for the Worldryehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06251066036325984107noreply@blogger.comBlogger205125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32773309.post-52137259748503373202020-05-22T17:16:00.003+08:002020-06-17T09:04:48.296+08:00How to Plan and Make Moving Apartments (or Continents) Easier<div class="p1" style="font-size: 23.2px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 3px; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: 17.94px;">With the current #COVID19 pandemic, lots of employees have been furloughed or made redundant and with the downtrend and falling prices of rental property across the board, a lot of people are considering moving. Financially, it just makes sense. However, </span><span style="font-size: 17.94px;">moving is one of the most stressful moments in any person’s life and the perceived financial savings should be worth the effort.</span></div><div class="p1" style="font-size: 23.2px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 3px; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: 17.94px;"><br /></span></div><div class="p1" style="font-size: 23.2px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 3px; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: 17.94px;"><br /></span></div>
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<i>Off to a new adventure!</i></div>
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<span class="s2" style="font-size: 17.94px;">I personally have moved nearly 20x in my life. During my early years as a fresh university grad, I most probably had moved 5x in just over a <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>year. Of course, these were relatively easy moves considering I had the bare minimum of possessions. The big moves were when I started moving furniture with me I could peg at 6x in the past 9 years, 2 of which were international moves. The stress-level was just off the charts! </span><span class="s2" style="font-size: 17.94px;">Here are some of my tips to keep on top and stay sane with any move:</span></div>
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<li><span style="font-size: 17.94px;"><b>Take stock of your possessions</b></span></li>
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<span class="s2" style="font-size: 17.94px;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span> It’s very easy for us humans to accumulate stuff overtime (if you do not fall in this category, you are an exception and well done!). Take stock of what you have and categorise them into the following:</span></div>
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<li><span style="font-size: 17.94px;"> Must-haves </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 17.94px;"> Nice-to-have</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 17.94px;"> Hold a sentimental value</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 17.94px;"> For giving away</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 17.94px;"> Due for the landfill</span></li>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYX_MZly1yi_575SYvjBxBDDYtN0EQooL9r9-taW1tqb4F5FZwuOmfKzcm0ZFmocasi9HaDkhGNq0G51rnGZfnCsKN7QvqIRzywIbyGdbvwYczhqgCNnoe9yrgFbXHgK-RcXLhAw/s1600/115A9201-B6C2-4DD2-82B0-FE3E3241D417.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYX_MZly1yi_575SYvjBxBDDYtN0EQooL9r9-taW1tqb4F5FZwuOmfKzcm0ZFmocasi9HaDkhGNq0G51rnGZfnCsKN7QvqIRzywIbyGdbvwYczhqgCNnoe9yrgFbXHgK-RcXLhAw/s640/115A9201-B6C2-4DD2-82B0-FE3E3241D417.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<i>Four years in Singapore and this is just a portion of what has been accumulated! </i>😱</div>
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<li><span style="font-size: 17.94px;"><span style="font-size: 17.94px;"><b>Determine how much you can afford to bring with you</b></span></span></li>
<div class="p2" style="font-size: 17.9px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 21.4px; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: 17.94px;"><br /></span></div><div class="p2" style="font-size: 17.9px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 21.4px; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: 17.94px;">Not all moves are the same. Some moves which are interstate and do not require air travel, are much easier to deal with as you can just hire a truck (20 ft - 30 ft) to move your possessions at not such a significant cost. Moving within the Philippines, as long as it is within the same landmass, is cheaper than say moving within Australia considering the difference in labor cost. </span></div>
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<div class="p3" style="font-size: 17.9px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s2" style="font-size: 17.94px;">There are also the international moves which by far are the most stressful. I have had the opportunity of doing this 2x and while I had plenty of time to prepare with my first move (and this was done gradually over a couple of months with several round trip flights involved), the 2nd one was done quickly albeit not as efficiently as I’d have liked. </span></div>
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<div class="p3" style="font-size: 17.9px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s2" style="font-size: 17.94px;">If you are going via air, airline baggage allowance differs significantly depending on the airline. Some you’d have to pay for while others provide 20-50 kg as baggage allowances. Sometimes I find that it is much better to travel with the full-service airlines considering this (vs budget airlines). When you do exceed the baggage allowance, the cost then becomes relatively prohibitive. It might turn out to be more cost-effective to buy a new one at the destination than pay for the cost of the extra luggage. With the post-COVID world, this remains to be seen how this will play out.</span></div>
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<div class="p3" style="font-size: 17.9px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s2" style="font-size: 17.94px;">Our 2nd international move was paid for by the company. This meant that we had a higher allowance in moving our possessions (10 cubic meter). Do note that these usually take 6-8 weeks as they go via sea so I suggest making sure to budget for essentials (though the company usually will provide 1-2 weeks serviced accommodation on arrival). The movers will, as part of their service, pack your belongings for you. I prefer though to do the packing myself (and you do have this option but check with the movers first considering the liability on their end).</span></div>
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<li class="li3" style="font-size: 17.9px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s2" style="font-size: 17.94px;"><b>Cull your possessions</b></span></li>
<div class="p2" style="font-size: 17.9px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 21.4px; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: 17.94px;"><br /></span></div><div class="p2" style="font-size: 17.9px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 21.4px; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: 17.94px;">From Step 1, you have already identified from your pile which ones you’re letting go of (the last 2). Now if you are not a sentimental person, then you won’t have to deal with the third item in the list. If luggage allowance is an issue, I’d suggest leaving your sentimental pile with family or a trusted friend. You can always ask them to send it to you or you can alway fly back and pick it up some time in the future.</span></div>
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<div class="p3" style="font-size: 17.9px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s2" style="font-size: 17.94px;">The decision to bring your nice-to-have pile depends on #2 above. If luggage allowance is an issue, I suggest again leaving it with family or a trusted friend. </span></div>
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<div class="p3" style="font-size: 17.9px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s2" style="font-size: 17.94px;">For the must have pile, these are the things that you’ve deemed you need to bring with you and the associated cost already factored into the decision. The following items we brought with us considering the cost of acquiring new ones:</span></div>
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<li class="li3" style="font-size: 17.9px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s3" style="font-size: 12px;"></span><span class="s2" style="font-size: 17.94px;">Mattress - This is number 1 on my list considering a new one could set you back significantly.</span></li>
<li class="li3" style="font-size: 17.9px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s3" style="font-size: 12px;"></span><span class="s2" style="font-size: 17.94px;">Paintings - <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>You can always sell or give away but I’d already grown an attachment and so brought these with us.</span></li>
<li class="li3" style="font-size: 17.9px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s3" style="font-size: 12px;"></span><span class="s2" style="font-size: 17.94px;">Kitchen appliances - I am big on baking and cooking so we’ve accumulated an assortment of kitchen appliances such as food processor, mixer, juicer, etc.</span></li>
<li class="li3" style="font-size: 17.9px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s3" style="font-size: 12px;"></span><span class="s2" style="font-size: 17.94px;">Kitchen crockery/Fine China - Depends on what you have but I brought our plates and fine china with us though I did still end up purchasing when ours haven’t arrived yet and we already had to move out of the serviced apartment. </span></li>
<li class="li3" style="font-size: 17.9px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s3" style="font-size: 12px;"></span><span class="s2" style="font-size: 17.94px;">Shoes - I’d suggest packing your shoes carefully into boxes and for this to go together with the rest of your possessions. Leave only 2 - 3 pairs in your luggage. I am a practical person but I ended up throwing other items out at the airport because it turned out we were way over our baggage limit.</span></li>
<li class="li3" style="font-size: 17.9px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s3" style="font-size: 12px;"></span><span class="s2" style="font-size: 17.94px;">Clothing - Check the season of the country you’re moving to and pack appropriately. If it’s winter season where you’re going, then pack the summer clothes into the boxes to go together with the rest of your personal effects. </span></li>
<li class="li3" style="font-size: 17.9px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s3" style="font-size: 12px;"></span><span class="s2" style="font-size: 17.94px;">Tools - This was interesting for me because we ended up throwing out a lot of our stuff while in Singapore. I know we still had the allowance (you can always stuff items into a box as it is volume based instead of weight based) but because I left this to D day, and the packers were moving at a speed so much faster than I was going (there were 5 of them and only 1 of me), we had to give away or throw out the items that weren’t packed at the end of the day.</span></li>
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<i>What a mess! 😅</i></div>
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<li class="li3" style="font-size: 17.9px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s2" style="font-size: 17.94px;"><b>Pack snugly</b> </span></li>
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<span class="s2" style="font-size: 17.94px;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span> <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>The best packing tip I could give is to make sure you don’t have any “unused” space in a box. It is so much easier for things to break (or for boxes to be deformed) when they are not appropriately filled in. </span></div>
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<span class="s2" style="font-size: 17.94px;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span> <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Plates and fine china are better individually wrapped in paper or paper tissue (or pieces of clothing or sheets if you’d like to maximise space). I’ve seen the movers place them vertically rather than horizontally on top of each other. What I’ve learned works best is to group these and place in smaller boxes. So my one big box is a collection of smaller boxes. Works well in retaining the structure, cushioning from falls or improper handling, and lends to fewer breakage.</span><br />
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<li class="li3" style="font-size: 17.9px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s2" style="font-size: 17.94px;"><b>Label accordingly</b></span></li>
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<span class="s2" style="font-size: 17.94px;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>With any move, I number my boxes. I then keep a master list of the number of boxes and a description of the items within. I then label (or color code) them for kitchen, bedroom (depending on the number of rooms), living room, etc. These are then indicated in the floor plan where the movers should be placing them. </span><br />
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<li class="li3" style="font-size: 17.9px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s2" style="font-size: 17.94px;"><b>Scope out the new apartment </b></span></li>
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<span class="s2" style="font-size: 17.94px;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>I am one of those who measure an apartment before the day of the move in, especially if I have furnitures to move in as well. This is so that on the day of the move, I give out the floor plan to the movers. The floor plan already includes the information where to place the furnishings and boxes. There are fewer questions asked and fewer decisions having to be made by me on the day itself. This also means I don’t have to move heavy furniture on my own.</span><br />
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<li class="li3" style="font-size: 17.9px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s2" style="font-size: 17.94px;"><b>Enlist help</b></span></li>
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<span class="s2" style="font-size: 17.94px;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Let’s face it, no matter how planned a move is, it is always better to have help. Enlisting the help of friends on the day of the move, or asking friends to look after your kid(s) when you’re busy packing are god-send. Do not overestimate your capabilities and underestimate the willingness of your friends to help out. Moving is one of those tasks that is completed faster and easier when there are more hands.</span></div>
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<li class="li3" style="font-size: 17.9px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s2" style="font-size: 17.94px;"><b>Ensure enough overlap between apartments</b></span></li>
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<span class="s2" style="font-size: 17.94px;"> <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>It depends on you how you plan a move but I find it best to have a period of overlap between apartments. I personally find 3 days (it can be as short as 1) is enough but this largely depends on your budget, availability, and help at your disposal. You’ll still need time to clean up the old apartment and then unpack in the new one to a level of normalcy for you to operate your minimum business-as-usual.</span><br />
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<li class="li3" style="font-size: 17.9px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s2" style="font-size: 17.94px;"><b>Say goodbye to your old apartment (and your previous life)</b></span></li>
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<span class="s2" style="font-size: 17.94px;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Call me sentimental but I find that this eases the transition for me, a proper closure if you will. After clearing out everything and cleaning the apartment, I usually take one last look around (take a video if you must and don’t be embarrassed about it) and remember the fond memories we’ve had in this apartment. This sets me up and prepare me for the new challenges ahead.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 17.94px;">Hope the above helps you out in your upcoming move and make things just a bit easier! Do share your tips as well in the comments!</span><span class="s2" style="font-size: 17.94px;"></span><div><span style="font-size: 17.94px;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: 17.94px;"><br /></span></div>ryehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06251066036325984107noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32773309.post-26829906695249494862018-04-20T23:08:00.002+08:002018-04-21T22:51:13.201+08:00Golden Murrumbateman - Canberra Weekend<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
What do I love about Australia? Its clear blue skies, beautiful golden hour, and amazing sunsets! </div>
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Over the Easter Weekend, we went on an impromptu trip to Murrumbateman, Canberra. It was a <a href="https://www.google.com.au/maps/dir/Westfield+Parramatta,+159-175+Church+St,+Parramatta+NSW+2150/Murrumbateman,+New+South+Wales+2582/@-34.3849466,149.4936162,9z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m13!4m12!1m5!1m1!1s0x6b12a32067d0932b:0xf017d68f9f32ce0!2m2!1d151.0013383!2d-33.817258!1m5!1m1!1s0x6b1701584d7299ef:0x40609b49043e100!2m2!1d149.0228616!2d-34.9729427" target="_blank">279 km</a> trip and it took about 3.5 hours to get there. I'll let the photos do the talking.</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/gfXFlJEGTWL3MkqWYA9GsOCB5DTLNzxX4QcaPmmKnyIk2bAmT6w0mej9G_L7lxoBpWWP-osfxFqb50g6kQL5koaxqhV-ZIUN4ebnhJ0GoH1-I_o_PXLWpG5KZ9YyxHNuG9CYPecrsukMQp1-sGHIp1ot5yPT8hj4JWzQCHDCpD5pLOdy0e6KdF7Pbv5SjhWnq6ZVpREYHe-CHAXCjd8CeUe_DqVtncYF6n-nCcJ-oZVyr83BzJl_hlEy2JodzWcfuvLchPI7gEUofTwlDMEeWBDb5QVR7D0N6CJZ01Dtikf9InTfJEbL4AmlGhGF4O9rYiHTg4SCjOKC25GblB77YWhjATNWVVR8ngoVi2CZM1CEhai2jwYUO636POFY_HPnSiIETFfww6rRjVPI0X4wbDxFq1szFY-Xt6u-Mak3dC2uDXh7H1BVZOdvEo2XqzNO2Dhzw5UdXHMs4SCgYK4pPvliqdhEyMNFftN3nPX9QnA9gLXvQj-1N9tb-QJffZoTgsoayidtNYKMqWKxxBOWpfq9gu4uATWjtJMxeDWlLORNL8fE4bkVXpaqNZRPOxRLXoAJuPO1PapT9AGJz9n3t0d1IZHuyByZGQE3lQ=w1224-h918-no" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="918" data-original-width="1224" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/gfXFlJEGTWL3MkqWYA9GsOCB5DTLNzxX4QcaPmmKnyIk2bAmT6w0mej9G_L7lxoBpWWP-osfxFqb50g6kQL5koaxqhV-ZIUN4ebnhJ0GoH1-I_o_PXLWpG5KZ9YyxHNuG9CYPecrsukMQp1-sGHIp1ot5yPT8hj4JWzQCHDCpD5pLOdy0e6KdF7Pbv5SjhWnq6ZVpREYHe-CHAXCjd8CeUe_DqVtncYF6n-nCcJ-oZVyr83BzJl_hlEy2JodzWcfuvLchPI7gEUofTwlDMEeWBDb5QVR7D0N6CJZ01Dtikf9InTfJEbL4AmlGhGF4O9rYiHTg4SCjOKC25GblB77YWhjATNWVVR8ngoVi2CZM1CEhai2jwYUO636POFY_HPnSiIETFfww6rRjVPI0X4wbDxFq1szFY-Xt6u-Mak3dC2uDXh7H1BVZOdvEo2XqzNO2Dhzw5UdXHMs4SCgYK4pPvliqdhEyMNFftN3nPX9QnA9gLXvQj-1N9tb-QJffZoTgsoayidtNYKMqWKxxBOWpfq9gu4uATWjtJMxeDWlLORNL8fE4bkVXpaqNZRPOxRLXoAJuPO1PapT9AGJz9n3t0d1IZHuyByZGQE3lQ=w1224-h918-no" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/3qlsma_iKv5X1Z4dz5YvXlneJN-KFjnqCuQpDk6yZaaviDD8DddXXbt9kzSk_8DUwgurMgAHu06kEbgM-NU0XXrP2r6_ePnw02W3Xz2VLMJ5BkaQYPYU9tdqClYTs82kq_FegOCPYbJZowLDMOdUlGbskJFhmLq3K_Wwq5-Ukrrtw439Iejqdqk3ChWjf6r-C6QEyscQZ31pU4GgZ-KrWFgcrT7DPNePu_zlJYy2HV2LCU9bWJgKBz0jmlz9XdnuhbkAOupmzPQU84n0-nf4U7GD10wsjfCVbuNyaR27M3kZgDcC1GqChXl6JMb9puwhY0NIQs9vykPyOvmclA68bo_9OAMKGbPwzNz8R0ur9TvJEsPbXoKz8nqsxJ7uxmiZDoJexLc4M7EpPKdn10yocU1KSWbz8ZhXySymIL_8QGSjhKnRfpxdFipD54gowhf2kZXDa26P8Df4WqVfFZ_LfFbfMbvcoKSkBSR4qPAj30oyqBlaHxAKCUY5ZxE08F9S37wo75r4HOcOqTCpWrMS716p4xKJdp5vdwo0G4kXOkqMAsuI02YA8zwCGsECQ_9qlN0fhkGhtTTbDZiry3qmRtcrUQkNhJSQr-hDgw=w1257-h918-no" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="918" data-original-width="1257" height="466" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/3qlsma_iKv5X1Z4dz5YvXlneJN-KFjnqCuQpDk6yZaaviDD8DddXXbt9kzSk_8DUwgurMgAHu06kEbgM-NU0XXrP2r6_ePnw02W3Xz2VLMJ5BkaQYPYU9tdqClYTs82kq_FegOCPYbJZowLDMOdUlGbskJFhmLq3K_Wwq5-Ukrrtw439Iejqdqk3ChWjf6r-C6QEyscQZ31pU4GgZ-KrWFgcrT7DPNePu_zlJYy2HV2LCU9bWJgKBz0jmlz9XdnuhbkAOupmzPQU84n0-nf4U7GD10wsjfCVbuNyaR27M3kZgDcC1GqChXl6JMb9puwhY0NIQs9vykPyOvmclA68bo_9OAMKGbPwzNz8R0ur9TvJEsPbXoKz8nqsxJ7uxmiZDoJexLc4M7EpPKdn10yocU1KSWbz8ZhXySymIL_8QGSjhKnRfpxdFipD54gowhf2kZXDa26P8Df4WqVfFZ_LfFbfMbvcoKSkBSR4qPAj30oyqBlaHxAKCUY5ZxE08F9S37wo75r4HOcOqTCpWrMS716p4xKJdp5vdwo0G4kXOkqMAsuI02YA8zwCGsECQ_9qlN0fhkGhtTTbDZiry3qmRtcrUQkNhJSQr-hDgw=w1257-h918-no" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i>Loving the autumn colors! Having grown in Asia, the scenery is all so new to me and it is a marvel to behold. </i></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/cadf4zmEMuI3_fog_q4TMbT0m3I9Bktj5XqfBthXIBfiY4MUjBDdQHQJNmFKVJwPD7DcrKuYqAelOKF4HR4bfPSeEOGZ5W7MODFY9q4M3w8ono2_Zn8dTK_Lu-0aNQMsYnuC1drd-9_nqOqPfdWY65227fF8hs-zs3nSXnSwaouq0lgPMUkVkQdlYLssWFi2NFudDzDoGv2fOVt8LjaHprhBmvMPB5gTKu2fOSrt6u_GXDOPspmb5fmVl8YNIXIeXXrgFhTJc8wtK8D0s2Grk9DXXW4FnNcr0EP-JngsZpe5inhnclJ6AByHAthO03ztzBBkLhaJL5f39MvRAeIetDEJqly2GbRx4JfVMnusJ9xH_R7ZofYKGAQMT9Q5hZfYoEKT4y4qgFogEmd2eT8K_gC16PdH7InqB6DqVw97zj8JyGVp-dFQH0fcQDSXnuatBD5SkJtzQDMirV9QR_ON36ThKMHeIG2-r9UNjTJFAj9SoZSOIoJegDZHH3YfnP6jiXJJ9u2tp4YxFsCjK_F0l5uMTxGcXoGvuWyfFZDEfO8A-R-sbUVmpvJO3kxUwsOgyWJHSwCO7mZI-UzAhEjn0jRnyxpCFfxsfCFPPQ=w1224-h918-no" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="918" data-original-width="1224" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/cadf4zmEMuI3_fog_q4TMbT0m3I9Bktj5XqfBthXIBfiY4MUjBDdQHQJNmFKVJwPD7DcrKuYqAelOKF4HR4bfPSeEOGZ5W7MODFY9q4M3w8ono2_Zn8dTK_Lu-0aNQMsYnuC1drd-9_nqOqPfdWY65227fF8hs-zs3nSXnSwaouq0lgPMUkVkQdlYLssWFi2NFudDzDoGv2fOVt8LjaHprhBmvMPB5gTKu2fOSrt6u_GXDOPspmb5fmVl8YNIXIeXXrgFhTJc8wtK8D0s2Grk9DXXW4FnNcr0EP-JngsZpe5inhnclJ6AByHAthO03ztzBBkLhaJL5f39MvRAeIetDEJqly2GbRx4JfVMnusJ9xH_R7ZofYKGAQMT9Q5hZfYoEKT4y4qgFogEmd2eT8K_gC16PdH7InqB6DqVw97zj8JyGVp-dFQH0fcQDSXnuatBD5SkJtzQDMirV9QR_ON36ThKMHeIG2-r9UNjTJFAj9SoZSOIoJegDZHH3YfnP6jiXJJ9u2tp4YxFsCjK_F0l5uMTxGcXoGvuWyfFZDEfO8A-R-sbUVmpvJO3kxUwsOgyWJHSwCO7mZI-UzAhEjn0jRnyxpCFfxsfCFPPQ=w1224-h918-no" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i>Roadside bushfire at Gunning causes a bit of traffic delay.</i></div>
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By the time we arrived in Murrumbateman, it was already past 5pm in time for</div>
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Golden Hour!</div>
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View of Canberra from Mt. Ainslie lookout.</div>
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Another view of Canberra CBD from Mt. Ainslie lookout.</div>
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The impressive windmills of Capital Wind Farm in Canberra.</div>
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It was a short two night chill trip. It left me with a heart full.</div>
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ryehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06251066036325984107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32773309.post-73339338164559971652015-01-17T00:56:00.002+08:002015-01-17T01:05:16.040+08:00The Varied Organic Food Choices at Rustan's MarketplaceWelcome 2015! Happy new year! I've been remiss, yet again, in updating HFTW. I've spent almost one month in the Philippines for the holidays and now I'm back in the Little Red Dot. So hard to do a recap of 2014. It has been an interesting year, one with heartaches, uncertainties, and yet a lot of emotional growth. How would you describe yours?<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/16268147916" target="_blank" title="Festive Holiday Decor at Powerplant by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="Festive Holiday Decor at Powerplant" height="640" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7574/16268147916_85c33c5684_z.jpg" width="479" /></a>
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<i>No one does Holiday cheer better than the Philippines. :)</i><br />
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So I was in Metro Manila for a few days the first week of this year to get some errands done and we stayed at the Joya Tower in Rockwell. I'll be writing a separate post re the accommodation later on but let me just share with you, and I was very ecstatic, to find so many organic choices under one roof! I love, love, love it and it made me wish we were still living in Metro Manila.<br />
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Read more after the jump!<br />
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Rustan's Marketplace is the grocery available at the Powerplant Mall in Rockwell, Makati. I love that they have a deli section, cheese, truffles, caviar, and a truffles and caviar spread (I bought one at 50% off expiring in a couple of days but I just wanted to try and I'm such a sucker for discounts), and you can order ready made dishes as well if you're too tired (or lazy) to cook. They also have lots of local and imported greens, variety of dressings, and even mushrooms which is hard to come by (mushrooms rarely make an appearanc in Filipino dishes)! Shiitake, button, and oyster mushrooms were available, if I remember correctly. I also love that they offer freshly pressed juices fruit and vegetable juices such as carrots, cucumber, apple, and watermelon. But what really got me excited were the organic options available to the consuming public.<br />
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<i>Can you believe how many options of Organic rice this is? And you have brown, whole grain, and red? </i><br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/16294075555" title="Brown Rice Options - All Organic by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="Brown Rice Options - All Organic" height="640" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7571/16294075555_3060845559_z.jpg" width="463" /></a>
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<i>Of course, don't forget the egg. I cry at the exorbitant prices of free range eggs here in Singapore at an average price of SGD 12 per 10 pieces. The above is very near to that price but then this is the premium variety.</i><br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/16107939239" target="_blank" title="Premium Free Range Eggs by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="Premium Free Range Eggs" height="640" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7514/16107939239_395504e93e_z.jpg" width="464" /></a>
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<i>Have you checked out this more affordable alternative?</i><br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/16106712110" target="_blank" title="Organic Eggs by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="Organic Eggs" height="640" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7573/16106712110_9f798b0bef_z.jpg" width="497" /></a>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/16292278041" target="_blank" title="Preshafruit by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="Preshafruit" height="389" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7572/16292278041_b832b4f0a8_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>
The Preshafruit juice is a fave of mine and while not touted as being organic, it's as natural as apple juices go, the best clean-tasting I've had on the market. It tastes natural and better than that, the ingredients don't include anything else but<br />
apple and whatever fruit it's being mixed with. It's cold-pressed and I love the minimal packaging. The price is at par with Singapore as well considering the exchange rate.<br />
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Have you noticed the number of <i>afams</i> (a foreigner assigned in Manila) here? I think there were more <i>afams</i> doing their grocery shopping here than there are locals (which would account for the produce made available).<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/16106540978" target="_blank" title="Beautiful Reindeers at Powerplant by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="Beautiful Reindeers at Powerplant" height="488" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7494/16106540978_7a0078c159_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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Loved this reindeer installation by the entrance of the Powerplant Mall. Take note that these reindeers are moving! People were having their pictures taken with it.<br />
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May we all scale greater heights (or depths) this 2015!<br />
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<br />ryehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06251066036325984107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32773309.post-80884419757700806622014-08-19T17:00:00.004+08:002020-05-22T19:02:21.999+08:00Making a Frozen Themed Kiddie Party Happen on a BudgetMy little girl turned 5 a week ago! I know cliche, but how time flies! She had a Disney Frozen inspired birthday party at school and it was one heck of a blast. Imagine having a party for 40 kids! It definitely was not easy and was eventually scaled down in the end when the toddlers were separated from the group.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/14780621479" target="_blank" title="euna turns 5 by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="euna turns 5" height="640" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3911/14780621479_2635cd4779_h.jpg" width="512" /></a><br />
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I initially did not want to have a big party as she had a HUGE one last year. I did not want to spend too much but since we moved to Singapore and our little girl didn't seem to be having an easy time fitting in, I thought having a birthday party for her at school would make things better. On top of that, I had loads of free time, so why not?<br />
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Find out how I (with loads of help from my sister and in-laws) DIY'd a Frozen birthday party in Singapore after the jump!<br />
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<br />
<a name='more'></a>My daughter held her birthday party at school. I was shocked with the fee that was initially asked. Good thing that was lowered to half.<br />
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Everything was culled from the internet. I was only responsible for putting the whole thing together. :)<br />
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The dessert table, backdrop, and birthday banner below were all DIY'd. Went to Spotlight in Dhoby Ghaut for the white table cloth. Daiso for huge paper. Popular bookstore for the glittered foams which became her name. Foam tapes for 3D effect were also sourced from Daiso. The crepe paper fan I bought from National Book Store from the Philippines when I was in Cebu a couple of weeks ago.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/14964134721" target="_blank" title="happy bday backdrop by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="happy bday backdrop" height="640" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5589/14964134721_88a466cf70_h.jpg" width="432" /></a>
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Loads of snowflake patterns on the internet. We used 5 point and 6 point snowflakes. I learned making paper snowflakes thanks to this birthday party!<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/14944246446" target="_blank" title="backdrop by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="backdrop" height="508" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5588/14944246446_ca451a8236_h.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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The paper doiley fans came out quite lovely. My MIL worked late creating them. This was an unexpected find from Phoon Huat bakeshop. Score!<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/14966879542" target="_blank" title="dessert table by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="dessert table" height="640" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3888/14966879542_9c646d0790_h.jpg" width="502" /></a><br />
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This dessert table was a labor of love. Found organic baby carrots from Cold Storage and called these Olaf's Nose. Scrumptious chocolatey chocolate crinkles recipe from joyofbaking.com (I used Lindt and Hersheys Kisses). Salted pretzels were found by my mother-in-law from Chong Pang Market in Yishun (what do you know?).<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/14966880772" target="_blank" title="cupcakes by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="cupcakes" height="459" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3882/14966880772_c069ba166f_h.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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Cupcake recipe was also from joyofbaking.com. Check out her red velvet cupcake recipe. I just changed the color to match the Frozen theme. :) The "teal" chocolate fondue was a mixture of white chocolate, cream, and azure food coloring. :)<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/14966882102" target="_blank" title="frozen 5th cake by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="frozen 5th cake" height="640" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5558/14966882102_e9428e66e7_h.jpg" width="472" /></a><br />
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Frozen cake above is also red velvet cake recipe from joyofbaking.com. I just changed the color. The Happy Birthday bunting on the cake was lovingly made by my sister and my MIL brought in the Frozen cake toppers from the Philippines.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/14780532479" target="_blank" title="loot bag pillow box by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="loot bag pillow box" height="480" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3872/14780532479_ff9c2e4fcd_h.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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Pillow boxes loot bags with white paper string for handles. Both paper and paper string sourced from Daiso. Doiley from Phoon Huat. Free printable from <a href="http://homeketeers.com/shop/disney-printables/disneys-frozen-party-printables-free/" target="_blank">HomeKeeters</a> which I just customized.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/14944229506" target="_blank" title="do you want to build a snowman by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="do you want to build a snowman" height="488" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3855/14944229506_f7b452aa54_h.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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Of course, who can have a Frozen birthday party without the "Do you want to build a snowman?" kit? Marshmallows from Muji and Cold Storage. Salted Pretzels from Chong Pang Market.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/14964129841" target="_blank" title="pastamania spread by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="pastamania spread" height="480" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3893/14964129841_d289fb0b52_h.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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Food was ordered from <a href="http://www.pastamaniacatering.sg/order_package.php?package=cva" target="_blank">Pastamania</a>. Very professional and everything labeled accordingly. The teachers loved the assorted pastry cakes provided.<br />
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The kids had games such as the statue dance and snowfight (loads of newspapers strewn on the ground afterwards). I did not think the teachers were prepared for that one.<br />
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The highlight of the party was the<i> Frozen Bubbles</i>! I was inspired from this <a href="http://www.stevespanglerscience.com/lab/experiments/boo-bubbles-dry-ice-science" target="_blank">video</a> which is originally an activity for halloween - Boo Boo Bubbles. Thank you so much for this dry ice experiment. The kids had way too much fun!<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/14966875602" target="_blank" title="frozen bubbles by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="frozen bubbles" height="640" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3926/14966875602_96c9d34b73_h.jpg" width="498" /></a><br />
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The kids were both amazed and so happy at the same time! The gloves were to keep the bubbles from popping. I've tried with bare hands and the bubble just disintegrates.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/14780738127" target="_blank" title="frozen bubbles by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="frozen bubbles" height="640" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3843/14780738127_053bf3a75a_h.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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Bubbles were sourced from Daiso. Dry ice delivered from <a href="http://www.iceman.com.sg/" target="_blank">Uni-tat</a>. DIY'd decorated jar from Phoon Huat. The gloves were $2 a pair from Daiso.<br />
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The party ended with the pulling of the snowflake pinata - of course! My daughter requires a pinata in her birthday parties. She had a beautiful pocket watch for a pinata last year made by my youngest sister for her Alice in Wonderland birthday party (I should do a post on that one) and this nearly did not happen. Thanks to my sister for putting this together in such a short time.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/14967217275" target="_blank" title="snowflake pinata by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="snowflake pinata" height="640" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3883/14967217275_cf2f3db5a1_h.jpg" width="454" /></a><br />
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I saw no point in having a paper mache pinata (all that hard work) so I was very happy to find this <a href="http://fakecrab.blogspot.sg/2013/05/fast-easy-diy-pull-string-pinata.html?m=1" target="_blank">easy pinata tutorial</a>.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/14966873842" target="_blank" title="snowflake pinata by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="snowflake pinata" height="540" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5577/14966873842_d40ff4f8ef_h.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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It was a mad scramble afterwards as mini balloons, play money, confetti, and chocolate fell. Even the adults joined in on the fun too.<br />
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The beautiful braided backdrop below made from tablecloth bought from Spotlight was created by my sister. How to <a href="http://rainonatinroof.com/how-to-make-a-party-backdrop/" target="_blank">here</a>. The balloons I bought from the Philippines but had them blown up in Singapore by <a href="http://www.mtradenoveltystore.com/" target="_blank">Mtrade</a>. Olaf too I bought from them.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/14966871942" target="_blank" title="family pic. frozen backdrop by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="family pic. frozen backdrop" height="640" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3915/14966871942_d335c07e7d_h.jpg" width="480" /></a>
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The crown tutorial was from <a href="http://pagingsupermom.com/?attachment_id=7089" target="_blank">Paging Supermom</a> but there was not time to wait for the glue to dry so switched to blue reflective stickers bought from Daiso instead (which were also used for the Frozen text behind). Boys' antlers template was from the <a href="http://sisterssuitcaseblog.com/2014/01/frozen-elsa-crown-sven-reindeer-antler.html" target="_blank">Sisters Suitcase Blog</a>. Both made from foam sheets bought from <a href="https://www.popular.com.sg/jsp/index.jsp" target="_blank">Popular</a>.<br />
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This was one tiring but fun birthday party! :) I love you little girl!<br />
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P.S. Need help with putting together a Frozen party in Singapore, let me know and I'm very happy to help out. :)ryehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06251066036325984107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32773309.post-52121416700975678962014-07-07T19:55:00.001+08:002014-07-08T17:45:30.754+08:00Accommodation Review: Coco Grove SiquijorIt has been over a year since my family had our vacation in Visayas visiting Siquijor, Dumaguete, and then Sumilon in Cebu last February. There might be new accommodations now but last year, Coco Grove was the best option available in Siquijor.<br />
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One of the things that stresses me is arriving at any new place and haggling for a ride to the hotel/resort. So this instance, since I did not want the hassle anymore, I asked for Coco Groves's pickup service (charged separately). The van was already there waiting when the ferry docked in Siquijor and it was an uneventful few minutes ride to the resort. We arrived nearly dusk and so were greeted with this fabulous sunset.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/14408505738" title="Coco Grove - Siquijor by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="Coco Grove - Siquijor" height="480" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3882/14408505738_28c29cbf1c_b.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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More details of Coco Grove Siquijor after the jump!<br />
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Upon arrival , checkin was a breeze and we were offered refreshing drinks. After that, it was a couple of minutes trek to our room. Yes, it was a trek considering the resort is sooo big. I reserved for the Royal Orchid room which came with breakfast already.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/14615185953" title="Coco Grove - Siquijor by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="Coco Grove - Siquijor" height="435" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2901/14615185953_9788b79cdf_b.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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Queen size bed in the room, sitting area, and about 32 inch flat TV maybe? The charge for the drinks in the ref is quite reasonable. Considering there are no direct flights to Siquijor, I was quite expecting its remoteness and so I made sure to bring snacks that my family likes.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/14594439912" title="Coco Grove - Siquijor by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="Coco Grove - Siquijor" height="405" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3857/14594439912_e7fe4df0c3_b.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/14591817871" title="Coco Grove - Siquijor by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="Coco Grove - Siquijor" height="640" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2911/14591817871_467fc7838d_b.jpg" width="529" /></a><br />
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There's a his and hers washbasin and shower area but unfortunately, no tub. There are rooms though which are equipped with tubs. Water pressure was good with option for hot water.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/14593203504" title="Coco Grove - Siquijor by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="Coco Grove - Siquijor" height="640" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3916/14593203504_bbf6731e69_b.jpg" width="452" /></a><br />
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While the room is pretty standard, I like that the room is well-maintained. I don't like grime on the tiles or rust in the fixtures and so was very happy to find none of that in our room.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/14408687727" title="Coco Grove - Siquijor by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="Coco Grove - Siquijor" height="640" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2937/14408687727_ea05fde92d_b.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
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I think what really sold us was this open terrace and that hanging egg chair. My daughter's favorite spot.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/14408502998" title="Coco Grove - Siquijor by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="Coco Grove - Siquijor" height="640" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3870/14408502998_f3c6e9c49c_b.jpg" width="480" /></a>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/14595101055" title="Coco Grove - Siquijor by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="Coco Grove - Siquijor" height="355" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5512/14595101055_a19da72dca_b.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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We took a soak in one of the two pools in the resort that same night but did not spend too much time in the water as it was getting cold (heated pools is not the norm in the Philippines).<br />
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This pool was near the restaurant by the reception (there are also 2 restaurants in the resort when we went there. We usually get breakfast in the resto nearer to our room and have either lunch or dinner here).<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/14595100515" title="Coco Grove - Siquijor by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="Coco Grove - Siquijor" height="415" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5544/14595100515_ac9b2108c9_b.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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As you could see, most of the guests are foreigners. So funny to feel a bit out of place in a resort of your own country.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/14595098945" title="Coco Grove - Siquijor by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="Coco Grove - Siquijor" height="482" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3895/14595098945_65c314237b_b.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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Did I say the resort is big?! Coming from our room for a swim and despite the number of guests, due to the size, there's loads of privacy. If alone/romantic/relaxing time is what you're looking for, then Coco Grove definitely is it.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/14594434812" title="Coco Grove - Siquijor by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="Coco Grove - Siquijor" height="427" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3904/14594434812_6786fdbe34_b.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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This was the beach in the morning. This was not even early morning. And you could see the sand stretches on and you could barely see another soul in sight!<br />
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One afternoon, we tried one of their activities which was riding on a glass-bottom boat. It allowed for the riders to enjoy underwater life without having to get wet. Activities were not for free and were charged separately.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/14594434012" title="Coco Grove - Siquijor by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="Coco Grove - Siquijor" height="640" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5550/14594434012_c4725326e0_b.jpg" width="628" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/14594434272" title="Coco Grove - Siquijor by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="Coco Grove - Siquijor" height="397" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3846/14594434272_705b9e7489_b.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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My hubby's only gripe are these stairs going up to our room! I have no complaints because that was what he exactly needed -exercise! If you have old or very young people your group, I suggest getting a room that's nearer to the beach.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/14595096195" title="Coco Grove - Siquijor by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="Coco Grove - Siquijor" height="640" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5518/14595096195_ef7eed21f4_b.jpg" width="480" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/14595096535" title="Coco Grove - Siquijor by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="Coco Grove - Siquijor" height="489" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3926/14595096535_311272485a_b.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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This was how the beach looked on our last day. Can I just say beautiful?! It made me so sad we were leaving already just after 2 nights stay!<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/14593199084" title="Coco Grove - Siquijor by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="Coco Grove - Siquijor" height="450" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3912/14593199084_54133dd835_b.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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PS: Let me know what you like to read in accommodation reviews. As I'll be doing more of these, I'll appreciate you sharing your concerns in what you look for in accommodations. :)<br />
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Wait... I did not talk about the food in the resort. Saving that for the next post!<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/14591810931" title="Coco Grove - Siquijor by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="Coco Grove - Siquijor" height="640" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3854/14591810931_9abd80e96f_b.jpg" width="480" /></a><br />
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<br />ryehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06251066036325984107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32773309.post-42153985720697283722013-11-17T16:11:00.002+08:002020-11-14T15:52:58.732+08:00Observations from YolandaDays leading up to Yolanda, I was hearing news about it but was not really on top of the news. When Saturday rolled around, I was very surprised and saddened when I first saw the reports of both big media channels in the Philippines, GMA and ABS CBN. Certain by then that there will be several hundred casualties, at least.<br />
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The following days, I kept tabs of the news but barely any was trickling in. I'd google and I would wonder, "Where the hell is the news?". Where is the planned operations after? Where's the coordinated effort? Who's managing the relief and rehab operations? Why isn't he/she providing status updates to the Filipino people? What's being done? I kept mum over the issue for several days until Anderson Cooper's CNN Update. Nothing's being done in Tacloban, at least nothing in the scale that he is expecting. All hell broke loose after that. People were up in arms over that news. I was up in arms over that news. </div>
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Some perspective: Prior to Yolanda, the country was glued to the Napoles case, the biggest corruption case in Philippine history shedding light on how public funds are being channeled right under the public's nose. You can read how that happens <a href="http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/526527/the-real-score-part-1" target="_blank">here</a>. </div>
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Why was I up in arms over that news? I believed that preparations and relief operations were in place and being carried out by the government but I also knew, based from the updates from the media and government websites (or lack of it), that what was being done was not quite enough. There was no person overseeing what's happening from what I can see (at least no one moved forward to provide a bird's eye view of what's being done). And then to hear it from Anderson Cooper's account (albeit, in retrospect, we can see he was expecting first world response) was just the tipping point. Corruption + incompetence? OMFG! I might be working from Singapore right now but I am paying taxes just like every working Filipino. Collective corruption + collective incompetence? OMFG!!!</div>
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Why can't the Philippine government carry out large scale rescue and relief efforts? Because we have limited military equipment! The wide area that Yolanda hit only made it worse. Limited equipment means the effort was spread too thin which means what's accomplished in a day is limited as well. And why do we have limited military equipment? One can only assume and most probably will be right as well! Same goes for infrastructure.</div>
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Calendar of events as I saw it unfold and the response:</div>
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<b>Nov 8</b>: Yolanda made landfall and wreaked havoc in Central Visayas. Both ABS CBN and GMA were still able to broadcast the typhoon during the early morning. </div>
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<b>Nov 9</b>: I saw the first update regarding devastation. Looting happened in Tacloban. Expected death toll to exceed 1,000.<br />
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<b>Nov 10-12</b>: Waiting for updates... Waiting for the concerted and coordinated relief efforts to be mobilised</div>
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<b>Nov 13</b>: CNN's Anderson Cooper described the situation in Tacloban as a "very desperate situation", asking where the bigger relief effort is as the situation "does not seem to get better day by day".</div>
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<b>Nov 14</b>: <a href="http://www.interaksyon.com/article/74727/govt-is-here--almendras-explains-how-pnoys-men-dealing-with-logistical-challenges-as-foreign-aid-pours-in" target="_blank">Philippine Government draws up the masterplan</a>. <a href="http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/metro-manila/11/13/13/metro-manila-mayors-adopt-yolanda-hit-areas" target="_blank">Metro Manila mayors to adopt the Yolanda hit areas.</a></div>
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It does not help as well that a plan to handle a calamity of this scale has not been drafted prior. It took 6 days since the typhoon hit to the news that the government has drawn up a masterplan and that Metro Manila LGUs step in for the areas hit in the meantime. </div>
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But instead of dwelling on that, I also came to accept the situation and instead of criticising, try to understand and help out where I can . So I waded through the Sitrep PDF files from the <a href="http://www.ndrrmc.gov.ph/" target="_blank">NDRRMC website</a>. I come from the private sector so this was actually my first attempt trying to understand how the government and its different departments work together. Please correct me if my interpretation is incorrect.</div>
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<b>Nov 6, 6pm</b>: First document for Yolanda preparations came out. </div>
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<b>Nov 7, 12nn</b>: Areas under storm signals 4, 3, and 2 were warned of a storm surge as high as 7 meters.</div>
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(In between this time, the media broadcasted the storm surge warning of 7 meters)</div>
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<b>Nov 7, 6pm</b>: 738 families from coastal areas in Tacloban were evacuated.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKkG0d-wkP1l2gWHU_6T2tV3HRemj7A1E1WPaRvMOSgzqhEUZQkIbRwTR7Cmfc5I0f1h9t3rNs6uuxzC66PGoBmN2OygnS75DOwjV_UpwDV-oHcz2eI0LOjE19NBPzPehxz25oWg/s1600/Evacuations.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="299" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKkG0d-wkP1l2gWHU_6T2tV3HRemj7A1E1WPaRvMOSgzqhEUZQkIbRwTR7Cmfc5I0f1h9t3rNs6uuxzC66PGoBmN2OygnS75DOwjV_UpwDV-oHcz2eI0LOjE19NBPzPehxz25oWg/s640/Evacuations.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pre-emptive evacuations carried out according to the NDRRMC Sitrep Prep file for November 7, 6pm.</td></tr>
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<b>Observation 1</b>: Why were the residents of Tacloban not mass evacuated considering much of Tacloban is at sea level? Its lowest elevation is <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tacloban" target="_blank">2</a> meters. It just makes sense considering the math: 7m storm surge + rainfall + wind. Was it that the information and its effects were not fully explained by the information arm? Was it because, despite the warnings, the LGU still did not heed it?<br />
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<a href="http://news.bbcimg.co.uk/media/images/71064000/jpg/_71064947_tacloban_airport_area.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://news.bbcimg.co.uk/media/images/71064000/jpg/_71064947_tacloban_airport_area.jpg" /></a></div>
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<b>Observation 2</b>: The template used by NDRRMC (the sitrep prep files) looks like a document that has been in use over the years. I don't know what purpose it is intended for so I might be overstepping here. I see it as a minute/status updates of what has been accomplished so far but <i>it does not highlight what still needs to be done (</i>maybe there's another document for that<i>)</i>. I could see the updates for the departments of the regions but each of these departments does not necessarily have an update in each of the NDRRMC file. I'd think there should be a line there for each but it's not the case. Is it possible for a department not to exist for a region?<br />
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<b>Observation 3</b>: Why was the preparation limited to just the affected LGUs? If one plans for a catastrophe, shouldn't a total population wipe out be considered? And does it not make sense to prep the nearest non-affected LGUs to help in case of disasters of this magnitude? Why was it that only Davao was able to respond in the shortest possible time?<br />
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I am not going to go anymore into the national government's response after. I'd need to do more research to do that. I don't want to criticise and do not want to defend either. Clearly, plans and processes need to be revisited and reviewed considering the scale of this catastrophe. I was wondering what would happen had Yolanda hit Manila instead. Did the government have provisions for satellite offices? Satellite server backups of important digital files? What's the timeline for things to be back to normal or at least, a sense of normalcy? What's an acceptable response time? I'd just like to know that these questions are already being thought out now and answers already drawn up.<br />
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The Philippines is visited by typhoons every year. It's time for the knee-jerk reaction to stop and start putting in long-term plans. I recognize that this is not easy but I still believe it can be done. For one, corruption needs to stop and important roles need to be filled up by competent people. If you are a Filipino reading this, please think instead how to help.<br />
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ryehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06251066036325984107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32773309.post-38346888767453940232013-10-22T00:32:00.000+08:002014-07-08T21:26:55.896+08:00Staycation: The Sentosa Resort and Spa Singapore (Formerly, The Beaufort)Back end of August, my dear H booked an overnight stay for us at The Sentosa Resort and Spa Singapore. The plan was for me to rest and enjoy a great massage (which did not materialize when I found out how much a massage costs! Haha!).<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/10405385434/" target="_blank" title="IMG_3755 by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_3755" height="640" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3724/10405385434_7dcf4a26e8_z.jpg" width="505" /></a>
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It was a bright and sunny day. My preschooler is raring to go. Except that taxis are really hard to come by on Saturday afternoons. We called several cab companies all without any success. Good thing this cab was in the neighborhood.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/10405393025/" target="_blank" title="IMG_3760 by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_3760" height="640" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7413/10405393025_db7dbf14d0_z.jpg" width="579" /></a>
Mercedes<br />
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Benz for a cab. This would be unheard of in the Philippines. Try getting the limo service from Sofitel and see how much that would cost you! Pricier than Comfort, CityCab, and SMRT but for long distances, the difference becomes negligible. Really. It will amount to just about 6 SGD for Yishun to Resorts World Sentosa.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/10405556983/" target="_blank" title="IMG_3765 by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_3765" height="640" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3809/10405556983_c00cb13a25_z.jpg" width="563" /></a>
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<i>Enjoyed a ride in plush leather seats and interiors for less than 30 SGD. Not bad.</i><br />
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We finally arrived at The Sentosa Resort and Spa about 30 minutes later.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/10405528423/" title="IMG_3878 by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_3878" height="640" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2834/10405528423_28fee93444_z.jpg" width="509" /></a>
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High ceilings at the lobby. Check in was a breeze.<br />
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Check out the room after the jump!<br />
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Was so happy when I saw the resort grounds. Yes, it actually earned the resort attached to the name.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/10405365154/" title="IMG_3789 by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_3789" height="480" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7422/10405365154_eed66efa27_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<i>Does this still look like Singapore to you? This made me feel like I was transported somewhere else. Great job with the layout and landscaping!</i><br />
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I loved that the room had a separate foyer. So no one could actually see inside the room providing privacy for those seeking it. You can order food and just have it left in foyer. Perfect!<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/10405386956/" title="IMG_3779 by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_3779" height="640" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5541/10405386956_5be47c4736_z.jpg" width="518" /></a>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/10405549533/" title="IMG_3775 by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_3775" height="489" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2815/10405549533_0642438256_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<i>See the door separating the foyer from the room? Door to the bathroom on the left. </i><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/10405533793/" title="IMG_3835 by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_3835" height="450" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5526/10405533793_d51c1d9c97_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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The TV is personalized. Loved that you can see your bill real time. So transparent! Welcome Mr. XX! And it also provides you with weather updates.<br />
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King-sized bed for us 3. The room is kind of dated and I could see it needs refurbishment. It needs to be aired out more as well.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/10405384025/" title="IMG_3774 by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_3774" height="458" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3713/10405384025_b536e4cb69_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/10405545553/" title="IMG_3780 by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_3780" height="495" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5501/10405545553_c849f34f39_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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The tub is wonderful but the toilet had a smell and shower was claustrophobic. It didn't help that the light bulb was not working. On the bright side, service was efficient. Maintenance guy was in the room within 5-10 minutes of the call and had it repaired in no time. I'd expect nothing less of Singapore.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/10405543653/" title="IMG_3784 by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_3784" height="640" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5513/10405543653_71d9125457_z.jpg" width="466" /></a>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/10405344604/" title="IMG_3787 by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_3787" height="480" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3711/10405344604_de1794d648_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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Bath amenities.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/10405525973/" title="IMG_3786 by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_3786" height="480" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2854/10405525973_6f43696da8_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/10405517033/" title="iPhone 17-Aug-2013 9-Sep-2013 by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="iPhone 17-Aug-2013 9-Sep-2013" height="560" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7370/10405517033_9d0363ba36_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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Huge closets.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/10405352215/" title="IMG_3788 by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_3788" height="640" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2873/10405352215_baeda69661_z.jpg" width="469" /></a><br />
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Yay, TWG tea! Have eaten 3x at TWG. Twice in Greenbelt, Makati and once in Takashimaya, Singapore. The level of service and quality of food is the same though Singapore is more expensive by about 30 percent. Despite this, never thought to purchase their tea. Haha! So good to be able to try them out here at the resort without having to commit to purchase.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/10405355126/" title="iPhone 17-Aug-2013 9-Sep-20131 by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="iPhone 17-Aug-2013 9-Sep-20131" height="640" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3802/10405355126_0c25ab8595_z.jpg" width="377" /></a><br />
<i>What's inside the ref? Did not touch anything here though. As expected in hotels/resorts, prices are jacked up. </i><br />
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The best part of the resort? The heated pool!<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/10405378066/" title="preschooler with papa at the heated pool by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="preschooler with papa at the heated pool" height="483" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5526/10405378066_02547d7817_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
Yes, those are my legs and preschooler and H off to the right. Preschooler was squealing with delight in no time!<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/10405369215/" title="IMG_3828 by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_3828" height="431" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5549/10405369215_9f04995945_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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Lovely resort. It made me forget I was in the middle of an urban jungle. Just the little R&R that I needed. The room definitely needs improvement but overall, the experience was pleasant and I didn't want to leave. Thank you dear H for organizing!<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/10405371376/" title="IMG_3861 by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_3861" height="640" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5532/10405371376_ef33f57973_z.jpg" width="480" /></a><br />
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For more details, check out the resort's website <a href="http://www.thesentosa.com/rooms_8-en.html" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
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Next up, the food at The Sentosa Resort and Spa!<br />
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<br />ryehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06251066036325984107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32773309.post-73719467278848373642013-09-21T02:04:00.001+08:002020-05-14T21:11:47.506+08:00Beautiful Sumilon IslandI am missing a real vacation. The last one was back in February where my family did a Siquijor - Dumaguete - Sumilon trip. It was tiring but so worth it. I was looking through the photos earlier and thought I'd share them here. Definitely one of the most breathtaking, beautiful places in the Philippines.<br />
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<a target="_blank" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/9840112505/" title="sumilon island at dusk - view from the top by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="sumilon island at dusk - view from the top" height="458" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2829/9840112505_2e9a84a2c0_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
The infamous Sumilon Sandbar. Taken in the late afternoon as the sun was setting. The water was starting to rise hence the middle bit of the sandbar is submerged in water.<br />
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We were fortunate to stay on the island itself so there were plenty of opportunities to come back to this sandbar.<br />
<a target="_blank" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/9840085944/" title="sumilon island at dusk by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="sumilon island at dusk" height="480" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2885/9840085944_1473cc134a_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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More Sumilon Island photos after the jump.<br />
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<a target="_blank" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/9840175673/" title="sumilon island nature by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="sumilon island nature" height="480" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3695/9840175673_6bbfa78007_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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There are a lot of visitors who would rent a boat to get to the Sumilon sandbar and stay on the island for an hour or 2 or 3.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/9840096735/" title="sumilon island at nearly noon by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="sumilon island at nearly noon" height="480" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5458/9840096735_a8cf22d14d_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
It's so beautiful, from all angles, that all pictures turn out amazing. Even a selfie will be amazing! :)<br />
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One late, lovely afternoon, we went to the sandbar and found out we had the island to ourselves. It was already nearing dusk so the visitors were already leaving. That's the best time to be at the sandbar (and maybe early mornings).<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/9840092856/" title="lovely greenish blue waters by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="lovely greenish blue waters" height="480" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2867/9840092856_b4b3e09eb0_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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A rare shot of me. I am usually the one behind the lens.<br />
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<a target="_blank" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/9840166213/" title="yours truly by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="yours truly" height="471" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7396/9840166213_9fb2d193e8_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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We had the whole place to ourselves which provided plenty of opportunities to take picture-perfect photos.<br />
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<a target="_blank" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/9840076815/" title="sunset with papa by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="sunset with papa" height="640" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5531/9840076815_c23344aef4_z.jpg" width="480" /></a><br />
Father and daughter bonding time.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/9840090325/" title="sumilon island lovely blue skies by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="sumilon island lovely blue skies" height="480" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7454/9840090325_82a5731110_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<i>Isn't that a pretty shot of the sandbar? I ought to frame that. :) That's the last boat about to leave the sandbar.</i><br />
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<a target="_blank" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/9840064525/" title="sumilon island with euna by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="sumilon island with euna" height="640" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5487/9840064525_3020c3b930_z.jpg" width="492" /></a><br />
Very fine white sand and blue skies. It was definitely one of the most memorable vacations I've been to. That sense of calmness and happiness that I felt while sitting on the sand waiting for the sun to set, fills me right now just by looking at this photo.<br />
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Sumilon Island is off the southern most tip of Cebu. You can either take a 3 hour bus ride from Cebu City to get to the Sumilon Visitor Center and take a boat ride across from there or you can take the Dumaguete route.<br />
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<b>P.S.</b> I implore you, that if you do visit the island, please be mindful of your trash. Bring it back with you. It is such a beautiful place. Let's be responsible enough to clean up after ourselves.<br />
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<a target="_blank" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/9842061344/" title="Pick up your trash by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7353/9842061344_48bf3d0ab5_z.jpg" width="535" height="640" alt="Pick up your trash"></a><br />
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<br />ryehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06251066036325984107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32773309.post-515118729899344212013-08-30T02:22:00.000+08:002014-11-18T10:52:03.077+08:00Momiji: Sulit Japanese Buffet in Singapore<div>
Because my husband and I are such Salmon Sashimi junkies, we were really hankering for a Saisaki type buffet spread in Singapore and were ecstatic when we found one back in May. It's in Northpoint Shopping Center in Yishun. Yay! About 5-10 minutes walk from our place and no need to go to CBD.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/9222511509/" target="_blank" title="assorted salmon sushi by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="assorted salmon sushi" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7448/9222511509_0db0b80759_z.jpg" height="471" width="640" /></a><br />
Flamed salmon topped with mentai. Drooling...<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/9222519567/" target="_blank" title="lovely salmon sashimi! by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="lovely salmon sashimi!" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5541/9222519567_d7f11027c6_z.jpg" height="640" width="473" /></a><br />
These slices of salmon are just b-e-a-u-tiful. I felt like I died and went to Salmon heaven.<br />
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The above 2 is enough for me but the buffet spread offers MORE! (Haha! I sound like an ad.) Find out after the jump!<br />
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<a name='more'></a><br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/9225299566/" target="_blank" title="sashimi spread by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="sashimi spread" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5468/9225299566_c675ce0849_z.jpg" height="640" width="532" /></a><br />
It's looking all orange. Do you spot the snow crab?<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/9222506745/" target="_blank" title="finished snow crab by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="finished snow crab" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3731/9222506745_142cd1c4de_z.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a>
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These were my husband's fave! He finished several platefuls of this!<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/9225295240/" target="_blank" title="raw shrimp by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="raw shrimp" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5338/9225295240_756bef68eb_z.jpg" height="640" width="503" /></a><br />
Or have some of these raw shrimp which I tried but won't go for again. I'll stick to the cooked ones. They do have Shrimp Tempura which I was not able to take a picture of but it was good. The batter was light and crunchy.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/9222508925/" target="_blank" title="kaminabe by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="kaminabe" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7373/9222508925_6b6633a07a_z.jpg" height="640" width="474" /></a><br />
After consuming all the raw seafood I can muster, I just had to have Kaminabe soup with King crab.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/9222513743/" target="_blank" title="table number system by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="table number system" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5458/9222513743_65943d5106_z.jpg" height="640" width="456" /></a><br />
Every table has these clips indicating your table number.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/9225290440/" target="_blank" title="scallops by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="scallops" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7427/9225290440_93faf1b9d6_z.jpg" height="640" width="487" /></a><br />
And you clip them on the dishes you want and the crew will cook it and deliver it to your table. Baked scallops above!<br />
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As if all the salmon, plus all the snow crab, plus all the scallop was not enough, there's also Wagyu!<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/9222510325/" target="_blank" title="wagyu enoki by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="wagyu enoki" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3736/9222510325_535c3ba2b1_z.jpg" height="609" width="640" /></a>
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Wagyu with Enoki mushroom. Soft and juicy. Make sure not to overcook! Yummmm!<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/9222515051/" target="_blank" title="wagyu beef by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="wagyu beef" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3773/9222515051_f49523f025_z.jpg" height="640" width="524" /></a>
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Another Wagyu dish. Sorry, I forgot the name of this one.<br />
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Considering alcohol is expensive in Singapore, you gotta love that premium Japanese beer, Sapporo, is thrown in the buffet as well. For one hour, from 6:30 - 7:30 pm, you can have all the beer that you want!<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/9225285002/" target="_blank" title="sapporo beer by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="sapporo beer" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3721/9225285002_e0d7b16af7_z.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a>
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You'd need to finish one bottle before you can get another bottle (trade your empty bottle). If you're a beer drinker, <i>bawi ka na</i> even with just 3 bottles of beer!<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/9222505467/" target="_blank" title="haagen dazs ice cream by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="haagen dazs ice cream" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3800/9222505467_3a09671180_z.jpg" height="640" width="531" /></a><br />
All you can eat Haagen Dazs <i>na ini.snub ko lang. Hihi!</i><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/9225281102/" target="_blank" title="dessert by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="dessert" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3825/9225281102_a4339b07ba_z.jpg" height="446" width="640" /></a><br />
My plate of dessert. They have limited choices but at this point, the buffet was so sulit already, it really did not bother me.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/9225278526/" target="_blank" title="dessert: brownie and eclair by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="dessert: brownie and eclair" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2823/9225278526_d4b6d32bd7_z.jpg" height="461" width="640" /></a><br />
My favorites were the choco brownie, eclairs, strawberries with chocolate, and surprisingly, wafers! They are not included in the picture above because I just discovered them when we were there for the 4th time. They were crunchy and not too sweet. You will find them by the chocolate fountain.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/9222503071/" target="_blank" title="green tea by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="green tea" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7408/9222503071_130d58f20e_z.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a><br />
Unlimited beverages with choices of soda, iced tea, and hot green tea - a great way to end a meal (not to mention good for your digestive system).<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/9222499867/" target="_blank" title="momiji rates by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="momiji rates" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5323/9222499867_f584be84ec_z.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a><br />
Look at those prices! Cannot be beat! So sulit! It's our new (and definitely better than) Saisaki!<br />
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Momiji buffet is located at the 3rd floor of Northpoint, Yishun. (Update 18-Nov-2014: The branch at Northpoint has, sadly, already closed).<br />
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P.S. I know I sound like an ad. Haha! All meals were personally paid for. I'm just really ecstatic to have found a value-for-money restaurant that satisfies our salmon sashimi cravings with added value which is why I'm sharing it here. :) Let me know how you find it!<br />
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<br />ryehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06251066036325984107noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32773309.post-62931915410168302442013-08-27T22:43:00.001+08:002013-08-27T22:49:48.008+08:00Good News: Kids Play Area Now at NAIA 1!Dropping by for some bit of good news. About 2 weeks ago, my daughter and I flew back to Singapore via Singapore Airlines which is how we found ourselves in NAIA 1. We had a good one hour to kill prior to boarding time (which is one hour prior departure) so was so glad when I saw this:<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/9605433757/" target="_blank" title="NAIA1 Play Area by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="NAIA1 Play Area" height="640" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5530/9605433757_507ce562c1_z.jpg" target="" width="480" /></a>
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Yay! Kids play area!<br />
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<i>Read more after the jump!</i><br />
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<a name='more'></a>I do not like NAIA 1 because of the following reasons:<br />
<ol>
<li>It's small and with the number of passengers and flights it tries to accommodate, is crowded.</li>
<li>There's no decent food.</li>
<li>Limited shops (Read: Nothing to do if you're killing time).</li>
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But I go there nonetheless specially when flying with my daughter because I do not want a stressful 3 hour plane ride to Singapore (Philippine Airlines does not offer individual inflight entertainment). So I was very happy indeed when I saw this play area for kids just across the limited food choices in NAIA 1.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/9605433127/" target="_blank" title="Lego by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="Lego" height="640" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5475/9605433127_e1e9da3d54_z.jpg" width="480" /></a><br />
I'm the one playing with these Lego blocks. Not my daughter.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/9605432297/" target="_blank" title="Lots of Lego by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="Lots of Lego" height="640" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3694/9605432297_6c0ed7318e_z.jpg" width="480" /></a><br />
That's a lot of Legos to play with. They also have Duplo for the younger ones.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/9608662904/" target="_blank" title="dated TV on Cartoon Network by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="dated TV on Cartoon Network" height="640" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7442/9608662904_58889b0eb1_z.jpg" width="480" /></a><br />
And TV glued to Cartoon Network. Personally, I'm not a fan of the channel and I asked the attendant whether it's possible to change it to either Nick Jr or Disney Junior but the control for the TV is not with them.<br />
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There's sofa there as well if you want to take a breather. Breastfeeding Moms can use this instead of being out with the rest of the passengers.<br />
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I can see small improvements in NAIA 1. I do think there's still a long way to go but it's very encouraging seeing these small steps. Whoever is responsible for these changes, thank you and please continue to do so.<br />
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P.S. The restrooms have been improved! It's clean, there's tissue, and there are hand towels!<br />
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<br />ryehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06251066036325984107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32773309.post-33669801673822901082013-06-17T08:00:00.000+08:002013-06-17T20:08:04.337+08:00What's Better Than Salmon?You know I'm such a fan of salmon.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/9054076611/" target="_blank" title="salmon by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="salmon" height="626" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7369/9054076611_37993ec41d_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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But I found something better.</div>
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Find out after the jump!<br />
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<a name='more'></a><br /></div>
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<a href="" name="more"></a>This share is long overdue. Thanks again to my Metrobank credit card, I was introduced to the world of Sugi, a Japanese restaurant located in Greenbelt 2 in Makati. It was on 50% off for a limited time back in April to May for certain Metrobank credit cards. Yes, I'm loving this credit card and the promotions it's running.<br />
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So what's better than a salmon?<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/9056301124/" target="_blank" title="hamachi/yellowtail by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="hamachi/yellowtail" height="626" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3821/9056301124_1f78f3fffb_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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This hamachi or yellowtail. It's so clean and smooth, it just glides. I'd suggest that if you were going to have salmon and hamachi in one sitting at Sugi, have the salmon first. Otherwise, you don't want to eat it anymore after having this.<br />
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But then I found out that not all Hamachis are made equal.<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/9056344588/" target="_blank" title="hamachi at sakae sushi, northpoint by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="hamachi at sakae sushi, northpoint" height="576" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2849/9056344588_0d029b6340_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
A plate of yellowtail at Sakae Sushi, Northpoint in Yishun, Singapore. How different is that?<br />
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So it's still a matter of where you get your sashimi from. Speaking of which, <a href="http://www.hungryfortheworld.com/search?q=kimpura" target="_blank">Kimpura still has the best salmon sashimi out there for me</a>.<br />
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Sugi is located at the ground floor of Greenbelt 2, Makati.<br />
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<br />ryehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06251066036325984107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32773309.post-83767524286949332322013-05-21T00:01:00.000+08:002013-05-21T00:09:33.711+08:00The Marina Bay Sands and BazinI am back in Singapore. Almost 3 weeks already and will be flying back to Manila again before this week ends. I wanted to go to Malaysia the past weekend but H had work so that plan was scratched. We decided to check out the Marina Bay Sands instead.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/8756533813/" title="The Marina Bay Sands facade by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="The Marina Bay Sands facade" height="610" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5327/8756533813_a32b8716a6_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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It's HUGE! And to drive home my point, another shot of it.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/8757660654/" title="The Marina Bay Sands facade by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="The Marina Bay Sands facade" height="486" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7329/8757660654_72d0a65662_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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The ground level is breathtaking! Look how high those ceilings are!<br />
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And that was just from the outside, see how it looks from the inside after the jump.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/8757660366/" title="Cavernous interior at the Marina Bay Sands by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="Cavernous interior at the Marina Bay Sands" height="640" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2881/8757660366_50fa6f7cbc_z.jpg" width="480" /></a>
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Don't like this guy who eschewed the proportions of my shot. Photo bomber bummer!<br />
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For a place so small and where everything is in practical proportions, the Marina Bay Sands is not. Those high ceilings definitely say luxury of space. And the shops lining level 1 are indeed high end with Hermes, Gucci, and Bottega Veneta among the few. Outside is the cannot-be-missed architectural shop from Louis Vuitton (unfortunately did not take a shot of it. I forgot to bring my OMD btw hence I've been making do with photos from my mobile phone).<br />
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H and I were really hungry at this point and we were more than halfway through the structure when we decided to check out the interactive map to find out where we were. Found out there were several casual dining restaurants dotting outside and moving from one to the other, decided to eat at Bazin.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/8756533915/" title="Bazin exterior by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="Bazin exterior" height="334" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5339/8756533915_086e15bb32_c.jpg" width="800" /></a>
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Bazin exterior.<br />
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H was hankering for a steak which was what made us decide to have both lunch and dinner (lunner?) there.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/8757660090/" title="H at Bazin by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="H at Bazin" height="640" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2822/8757660090_003e68ee64_z.jpg" width="466" /></a><br />
Checking out the food scene at Marina Bay Sands. Interested in trying out the celebrity restaurants in the future. Not now though and not casually dressed as we were (haha! There's a smart casual dress code in the celebrity restaurants).<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/8757659790/" title="Minty Melon at Bazin by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="Minty Melon at Bazin" height="640" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3780/8757659790_b3b8718a90_z.jpg" width="480" /></a>
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Ordered this glass of Minty Melon which was really good. It had lime and on the sour side but not quite. Also the most expensive non-alcoholic drink I've had to date but no regrets there being it was unique and the combination was a first for me.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/8756534077/" title="Bazin interior by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="Bazin interior" height="495" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5451/8756534077_50c2afa935_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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Bazin interiors.<br />
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After waiting about 15 - 20 minutes, H's steak finally arrived. He was quite excited considering it was described as grain fed black Angus meat having been aged <b>300</b> days! He ordered it medium.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/8757659484/" title="Ribeye at Bazin served by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="Ribeye at Bazin served" height="640" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5329/8757659484_4c042d4115_z.jpg" width="549" /></a>
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But it arrived on the medium well end. He was so disappointed when he tasted it and could not determine any difference with the meat we buy from supermarkets.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/8756531933/" title="Ribeye at Bazin - Cut by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="Ribeye at Bazin - Cut" height="640" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2867/8756531933_e9411db462_z.jpg" width="486" /></a>
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I felt sad for my husband. The reason why we eat out at these kind of restaurants and pay for these prices is because we know we won't be able to replicate the same thing at home. But if we can, why even bother dining out and throw hard-earned money on it at the same time?<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/8756531601/" title="Truffle Pizza at Bazin by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="Truffle Pizza at Bazin" height="640" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2818/8756531601_23d929155e_z.jpg" width="536" /></a><br />
Good thing this Truffle pizza, a chef's recommendation, was truly something divine. Described as having a pesto base, with cheese, sprinkled with button and shiitake mushrooms, cherry tomato, coriander, and shaving of black truffle and truffle oil. It was very light, both the tomato and coriander added freshness to it. I have not tasted anything like it before. I found it worth the price.<br />
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The restaurant's service was tepid, it was ok. It's not good for wait-staff to discriminate but I've found out after years of dining, that when diners take the time to take extra care in how they look, usually, this equates to the level of service one gets. All the time, regardless of what one wears, we end up paying the same percentage for service anyway.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/8757658376/" title="Light, sound, and water at Marina Bay Sands by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="Light, sound, and water at Marina Bay Sands" height="428" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3763/8757658376_95570ceaa1_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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One good thing about the restaurant is its location, directly outside is the lights, sound, and water show. I stepped out in the middle of the meal to take a couple of shots. Next time, I'll bring my preschooler here for the show.<br />
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My husband's spirit in need of a pick-me-up, we decided to drop by <i>Au Chocolat</i>. This is a chocolate lover's paradise.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/8757658080/" title="Au Chocolat frontage at Marina Bay Sands by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="Au Chocolat frontage at Marina Bay Sands" height="640" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8270/8757658080_4628b40cb2_z.jpg" width="480" /></a>
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We ended up having cake here and bringing home French macarons. Will post about that next.<br />
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Found out there were a lot of food options at the food court which was at the basement by the skating rink. There's even Filipino Cuisine. I miss Filipino food but get wary of restaurants touting Filipino cuisine when I found out in a certain Filipino food stall in Changi Point is not manned by a Filipino! I was expecting the woman to speak to me in Tagalog and she spoke to me in English. Looked to be Malay.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/8756530663/" title="Filipino Cusine at Marina Bay Sands by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="Filipino Cusine at Marina Bay Sands" height="640" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3705/8756530663_b43e2bc59d_z.jpg" width="479" /></a><br />
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So glad to find out that it's Gerry's Grill. We're saving that for next time. ;)<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/8757657596/" title="Gerry's Grill at Marina Bay Sands by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="Gerry's Grill at Marina Bay Sands" height="480" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8129/8757657596_2db7bb7719_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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We walked to the Marina Bay sands from the end of the North-south (red) line because we did not know it was already integrated with the orange line. To save yourself the trouble, alight at Marina Bay from the red line and then transfer to the orange line and get off at Bayfront where it has direct access to the Marina Bay Sands. Check out the map below.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmBkkZDbAu1W1G0QaDje0qMC1WWoD8SS6wjkPeVNnpqJetQHkqX6qC5kVsM1JwzYSqVbVmFT_XAwKp6zAfZWgPn6Knts8cwcHWBHncFUbiUcoHTVZ93wVuf0dd8TBxIPNfp9riWw/s1600/All_CCL_CLE_System_Map_LRT_lines_big.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="518" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmBkkZDbAu1W1G0QaDje0qMC1WWoD8SS6wjkPeVNnpqJetQHkqX6qC5kVsM1JwzYSqVbVmFT_XAwKp6zAfZWgPn6Knts8cwcHWBHncFUbiUcoHTVZ93wVuf0dd8TBxIPNfp9riWw/s640/All_CCL_CLE_System_Map_LRT_lines_big.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Photo from <a href="http://sgtransport.blogspot.sg/2012/01/new-mrt-map-updated-with-circle-line.html" target="_blank">SG Land Transport blog</a>.<br />
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<br />ryehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06251066036325984107noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32773309.post-2054881001511426942013-05-20T02:10:00.002+08:002020-05-14T11:32:16.871+08:00Things to do: Kampo Juan at Manolo Fortich, BukidnonMy father thought it was a good idea to bring the whole family to Kampo Juan, Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon for a day. We left the house at past 3 in the afternoon and got there a little over 4 pm. It was a good time of the day to be there. Not quite hot anymore considering it's the middle of summer.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/8753669647/" target="_blank" title="kampojuan by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="kampojuan" height="447" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3715/8753669647_2b342e49bc_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
"What are those bikes for?", you might ask. So that you can cycle your way across the ravine on a bike that's hoisted on wire tracks.<br />
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My 2 younger sisters have been on those bikes already. So it was the 2 elder sisters turn. I wasn't up for it yet, to be honest. The thought of falling over, imminent death, and leaving my preschooler motherless terrified me (though the staff assured me that that'll never happen).<br />
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Find out after the jump whether I got on those bikes!<div><br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
While I was mulling it over, the family sat around, chatted, and snacked on junk food.</div><div><br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/8753673415/" target="_blank" title="lounge/waiting for your turn area by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="lounge/waiting for your turn area" height="457" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8121/8753673415_056a809a82_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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Until others got tired, Euna got bored and started exploring the place.</div><div><i><br /><br /></i>
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/8754794000/" target="_blank" title="lovely idea by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="lovely idea" height="479" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8411/8754794000_3251e13e8e_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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Lovely idea of recycled tables and chairs from truck tires.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/8753670871/" target="_blank" title="recycled tire chair by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="recycled tire chair" height="640" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3830/8753670871_f50fe58719_z.jpg" width="478" /></a>
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You could even see what brand of tire it is.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/8753670525/" target="_blank" title="vignette of recycled tire table by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="vignette of recycled tire table" height="480" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2870/8753670525_5ef9351553_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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Table top.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/8753673707/" target="_blank" title="loving the hammock by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="loving the hammock" height="640" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2845/8753673707_31b17d0cd6_z.jpg" width="475" /></a><br />
My daughter loved the hammock. This photo was taken by my youngest sister.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/8754795332/" target="_blank" title="little one on foldable bamoo chair by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="little one on foldable bamoo chair" height="640" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7311/8754795332_fd3cb91892_z.jpg" width="443" /></a>
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And this foldable bamboo seat. You get to customize the angle of the recline.<br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=32773309" target="_blank" title="sisters by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><br /></a>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/8754794348/" title="random white flower by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="random white flower" height="480" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5462/8754794348_ce2efeb61a_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
The OMD has proven it's a very good camera to use for macro shots. I could not get this level of detail with kit lens on a D40.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/8754792136/" target="_blank" title="bikes by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="bikes" height="459" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8552/8754792136_20db766806_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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<br />
But I digress. We were here to get on those bikes. My other sister was up for it. They were all just waiting for me. So I succumbed to family pressure. But not before scouting what lay ahead.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/8754792744/" target="_blank" title="birds eye view of what's p ahead by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="birds eye view of what's p ahead" height="640" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8132/8754792744_2eb5b462d6_z.jpg" width="480" /></a><br />
Oh my god! That's-I-don't-know-how-many-meters-of-cycling-on-air-with-nothing-but-a-wire-to-guide-the-bike. There was no way I was going to live should I fall in that deep ravine trying to cycle my way across. I was composed on the outside, but I was already freaking inside.<br />
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I'd always been someone who welcomed adventure and the adrenaline rush. I wasn't afraid of death and I'd like to think that (after leaving my parent's home) I lived like I had nothing to lose. But all of that started to change when my daughter entered the picture. </div><div><br /></div><div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/8753668825/" target="_blank" title="what's up ahead 2 by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="what's up ahead 2" height="640" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7393/8753668825_32e8db9b1e_z.jpg" width="480" /></a>
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So waiver forms were signed and we were made to put on harness as a safety precaution. My sister had no fears from what I observed from her. We both took on the bike handles and the guide told us that it'll be smooth sailing half of the way, no need to pedal until then. My sister took off and I was left there staring at her back.<br />
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Breathe in. Breathe out. "I can do this", I thought to myself, psyching myself up. And I let go.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/8754791096/" target="_blank" title="what's up ahead by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="what's up ahead" height="640" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5450/8754791096_2e3328d5b9_z.jpg" width="480" /></a><br />
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I pedaled even when there was no need and so I never felt that point where I had to pedal because I pedaled right from the start. I glanced below but averted my eyes just as quickly. If I was going to get through this, I need to focus. So I focused on reaching the other end as my goal.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/8754790648/" target="_blank" title="cycling on air by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="cycling on air" height="439" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7383/8754790648_7f4e02f567_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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Halfway through and I was leaving my sister behind. I did not look back. I was too scared. Haha!<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/8753667607/" target="_blank" title="made it! by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="made it!" height="640" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3739/8753667607_ccf95a9211_z.jpg" width="449" /></a><br />
Nearly on solid ground. There's no denying how relieved I felt at that point. And yes, we cycled without slippers for fear of dropping our Fitflops in the middle!<br />
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I was so gripped with fear. Normally, I'd dare myself to overcome my fear and would have looked at the ground or would've stopped in the middle of the tracks. Instead, I just wanted to get it done and over with. It was over in less than 5 minutes. In the end, I felt like I cheated myself. I consoled myself that I can always get back on it. With H the next time around!</div><div><br />
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<b>TIP: If you want to take the faster bike, take the bike on the left. That will definitely get you across in less time and effort.</b><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/8754797064/" target="_blank" title="family at kampo juan by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="family at kampo juan" height="480" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5322/8754797064_00cd735201_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>
Another family photo.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/8754795336/" target="_blank" title="kampo juan activities by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="kampo juan activities" height="640" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7377/8754795336_166d6bfc26_z.jpg" width="482" /></a>
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Other adventures you can embark on at Kampo Juan: Hanging Bridge, Zipline, and Rappeling. They also have packages so you can do all of the above in one go.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/8753671903/" target="_blank" title="looking forward to this! by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="looking forward to this!" height="486" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3741/8753671903_2a796cdccf_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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I'm looking forward to this. If I recall correctly, they will open parachuting/paragliding to the public in June.<br />
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For up-to-date information, check out Kampo Juan's facebook page <a href="https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150220306917349.346333.166148347348&type=3" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
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<br /></div>ryehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06251066036325984107noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32773309.post-67620717704807055782013-05-03T01:28:00.001+08:002014-07-08T21:26:55.916+08:00Seda, Cagayan de OroDid a bit of hotel hopping a few days back. Went to CDO to swing by father's birthday and in the process, spent a night at the latest hotel to open in Cagayan de Oro, Seda, the hotel chain from Ayala. AFAIK, there is a Seda in Davao, one in BGC, and the latest, in CDO. Even the keycard used in CDO has the J.P. Laurel, Davao address. I thought it was time to try something different for a change. For a while back, my hotel of choice when in CDO was <a href="http://www.hungryfortheworld.com/2011/05/why-i-love-marco-hotel-cdo.html" target="_blank">Marco Hotel in Alwana</a>, Cugman.<br />
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<a target="_blank" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/8701472117/" title="how the hotel looks from the outside by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="how the hotel looks from the outside" height="480" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8544/8701472117_64c9228328_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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Seda Hotel facade. The hotel has direct access to the Ayala Mall, Centrio.<br />
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Our flight was very delayed. Thanks, apparently, to the air traffic in NAIA. Good thing I requested for pickup from the Lumbia airport by the hotel's airport transfer service. A man dressed in short sleeved polo, dark slacks, holding an iPad with the Seda logo on the screen was waiting for us. Of all the guys standing there, he was the only one inside the gates aside from outgoing passengers which really goes to show they have some pull within the airport grounds. We were led to a black sedan and I asked the driver where the logo was and I was informed it was on the door by the front passenger seat. I checked when I got off and it was indeed there, quite a discrete way of putting it and can easily be missed at night.<br />
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By the time my preschooler and I arrived at Seda, it was already a couple of minutes past midnight and we got in via an inconspicuous side entrance. Being that this hotel is connected to the Centrio Mall, the lobby is at the 4th floor.<br />
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<a target="_blank" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/8701472353/" title="seda lobby and restaurant area by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="seda lobby and restaurant area" height="419" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8276/8701472353_34a868d49b_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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Lobby, restaurant to the right, and the function room and meeting rooms at the far back of the building.<br />
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Above pic was taken with me standing by the reception desk. It's very minimalist and area is definitely limited. The hotel very much reminded me of our condo. I can finally see where the interior designer was heading with her choice of colors in our place.<br />
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Click more for the tour!<br />
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<a name='more'></a>I booked the most basic room via Agoda. I actually called Seda in advance to ask if they could offer better rates but since they could not (and I was advised to book with Agoda), then Agoda it was (I do not understand why hotels would prefer to give Agoda a percentage of their sales).<br />
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<a target="_blank" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/8702598502/" title="upon entry by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="upon entry" height="640" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8543/8702598502_623d04dbe3_z.jpg" width="531" /></a>
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Upon entry to the room. Closet to the right side not in the picture. Saw the wirings jutting out though inside the closet. Not a good finish for the hotel. Lack of attention to detail for a hotel of this class.<br />
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<a target="_blank" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/8702598094/" title="bed by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="bed" height="640" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8268/8702598094_d6bf8a629e_z.jpg" width="480" /></a>
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Requested for a huge bed as we were also joined by my sister who checked in ahead of us.<br />
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<a target="_blank" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/8702596518/" title="framed tv by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="framed tv" height="480" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8140/8702596518_e868190abb_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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Entertainment and desk with hairdryer inside. I love that there's a provision for different ports perfect for the traveler with several gadgets.<br />
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<a target="_blank" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/8701474529/" title="preschooler in adult bathrobe by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="preschooler in adult bathrobe" height="640" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8261/8701474529_dd34faa529_z.jpg" width="506" /></a>
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Preschooler dressing up in bathrobe.<br />
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<a target="_blank" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/8702596930/" title="tea and coffee? by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="tea and coffee?" height="509" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8399/8702596930_68a58e801d_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
Coffee and tea making facility. My sister mentioned something about the coffee being good (according to the person who helped her with the baggage). Cannot attest to that as I do not drink coffee. This was left untouched.<br />
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<a target="_blank" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/8702597176/" title="refreshments by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="refreshments" height="640" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8123/8702597176_d94582707b_z.jpg" width="480" /></a>
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Available refreshments.<br />
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<a target="_blank" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/8702597796/" title="clean and functional bathroom by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="clean and functional bathroom" height="640" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8265/8702597796_47a05687be_z.jpg" width="588" /></a><br />
Standard bathroom with hot and cold shower and toiletries. No dental kit provided though.<br />
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<a target="_blank" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/8701474055/" title="pool view from the room by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="pool view from the room" height="640" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8268/8701474055_f1f9585702_z.jpg" width="493" /></a><br />
Our room was at the 8th floor if I'm not mistaken. Pool view from the room.<br />
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Room service was only until 10 pm , I think. Requested for a menu for breakfast the following day but it took them so long, I decided to go down with my preschooler instead. We had free breakfast with the booking but my preschooler and I were unable to wake up early in time for final call at 10 am. My sister, who did avail of it, told me there was limited choices.<br />
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<a target="_blank" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/8701473655/" title="missing my cute preschooler by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="missing my cute preschooler" height="640" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8547/8701473655_4f9efa864c_z.jpg" width="480" /></a>
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Breakfast came in the form of mixed seafood. This is because my daughter loves shrimp tempura. There's also fish, squid, and, if not mistaken, kangkong tempura.<br />
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<a target="_blank" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/8701473415/" title="mixed seafood. enjoyed the kangkong tempura (i think) by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="mixed seafood. enjoyed the kangkong tempura (i think)" height="486" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8414/8701473415_ef69eb729e_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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<a target="_blank" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/8701472875/" title="mushroom risotto. bland by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="mushroom risotto. bland" height="640" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8261/8701472875_e6a6d2aec9_z.jpg" width="498" /></a>
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A bland mushroom risotto with really tiny scallops on top. Not at all what I expected.<br />
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By late afternoon, it was time to check out the pool.<br />
<a target="_blank" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/8701471551/" title="pool in need of cleaning by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="pool in need of cleaning" height="480" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8256/8701471551_18ed463e54_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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Preschooler was looking forward to it.<br />
<a target="_blank" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/8701471813/" title="euna by the pool by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="euna by the pool" height="480" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8258/8701471813_bebd4d003b_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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Until she started itching. Good thing no redness stayed afterwards. The pool could have definitely benefited from cleaning. Slime/grime appears to have formed on the edges of the pool floor.<br />
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<a target="_blank" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/8702592346/" title="euna scratching her legs by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="euna scratching her legs" height="480" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8396/8702592346_a8c9dd035d_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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Overall, the hotel is definitely a notch higher than the limited hotels that I've seen in CDO. It can definitely do better. For the price being charged, it's not quite value for money, for me. There's an expectation, from my end, of being "more". It was ok but I was not necessarily blown away. Food was ok. Service okay. Maybe there's no extra mile from the staff? Or the lack of attention to detail in the room? Or that, it looks like the hotel is still on soft opening (if that were the case, then those rates should be lower). Those are my 2 cents anyway.<br />
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<a target="_blank" href="http://www.agoda.com/partners/tracking.aspx?cid=1596768&url=http://www.agoda.com/asia/philippines/cagayan_de_oro.html&tag=BNR[cagayan-de-oro_300x239]" rel="nofollow">
<img src="http://img.agoda.net/banners/agoda.com/70/18869/cagayan-de-oro_300x239.jpg" /></a>ryehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06251066036325984107noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32773309.post-3571290399820333392013-05-02T02:53:00.001+08:002013-05-02T02:55:19.451+08:00Separation AnxietyThis is the 2nd time I've left my preschooler with my in-laws for a significant amount of time. The first time, we forcibly tried to wean her from breastfeeding (which did not work) and which was how my husband and I found ourselves in <a href="http://www.hungryfortheworld.com/search/label/vietnam" target="_blank">Vietnam</a>. This time, it's really just a matter of doing what's best for her. I'm busy with deliverables, my husband in Singapore, and with me as sole caretaker is just not best for her. Added to that is she's looking forward to spending time with her cousins and grandparents. Who am I to stand in the way of that?<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/8699924642/" target="_blank" title="P4200477 by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="P4200477" height="480" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8260/8699924642_b685cd3e39_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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Hamming inside the restroom aboard Singapore Airlines.<br />
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<a name='more'></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/8699924826/" target="_blank" title="P4200476 by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="P4200476" height="480" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8116/8699924826_fc1c61e252_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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So interested to see the result! She's getting better at taking pictures too!<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/8698801737/" target="_blank" title="P4200480 by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="P4200480" height="480" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8400/8698801737_9ace9115c9_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
What joy!<br />
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Sigh... I miss her so...<br />
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<br />ryehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06251066036325984107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32773309.post-25499731386491661912013-04-18T13:14:00.000+08:002013-04-18T16:32:35.157+08:00Stubborn/Strong-willed Child?Ever since we've been here in Singapore, my <s>toddler</s> preschooler has become more stubborn than ever. It's very hard now to get her to do something. It requires coaxing, negotiation, and a loooot of patience which I must admit I don't have a lot of especially on days when I have back-to-back calls at work. To my credit, my husband tells me I've come a long way since giving birth to her.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/8658989215/" target="_blank" title="enjoying in flight entertainment by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="enjoying in flight entertainment" height="640" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8107/8658989215_8f016b6abb_z.jpg" width="480" /></a>
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<i>Enjoying inflight entertainment onboard Singapore Airlines.</i><br />
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So I googled how one parent can actually deal with a stubborn child and found tips from Aha! Parenting. <br />
<a name='more'></a>Apparently, stubborn children are strong-willed children and that I should be grateful that I have such a child, who if parented sensitively, will grow up to become great teenagers who are (almost?) impervious to peer pressure, driven, has integrity and is self-motivated. Wow! Yes, I'd want to have a teenager like that in the future. Key phrase there is "parented sensitively".<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/8660091872/" target="_blank" title="pool time by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="pool time" height="640" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8106/8660091872_dc31127559_z.jpg" width="480" /></a>
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<i>Enjoying pool time at Hougang Village Residences. Who would have thought she used to be scared of water?</i><br />
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Ok, wait there... that sounds a lot like me. Except for the parented sensitively bit which would attribute to my awkward teenage years where I could not make sense why my father won't allow me to actually have a choice or say in anything. I could not argue with him on the dinner table regarding viewpoints we disagreed on without fear of an explosion and my sister kicking my legs under the dinner table to shut me up. I could not join any club in high-school, cannot finish projects overnight in anyone's house in college, and the only thing at least was that I was allowed to attend both proms in junior and senior year. My mother was so glad when I finally graduated and moved out of the house only a month after graduation. At least no more clashes between 2 stubborn (strong-willed?) people.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/8660092020/" target="_blank" title="offering flowers by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="offering flowers" height="640" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8118/8660092020_3b8ef39f0b_z.jpg" width="480" /></a>
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<i>But she can be the sweetest.</i><br />
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So I should really take my experience in how I wanted to be treated growing up and apply it to my preschooler's upbringing. It means I have to be more patient with her, treat her with respect and empathy, provide her with choices, and not have to win all battles with her. Let's see where this approach will lead me. You can find the article <a href="http://www.ahaparenting.com/parenting-tools/positive-discipline/Parenting-Strong-Willed-Child" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
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<br />ryehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06251066036325984107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32773309.post-18351908648855823092013-04-08T00:07:00.001+08:002020-05-21T10:59:42.442+08:00Moving?We're in Singapore right now. My husband moved about 2 weeks ago. I am not yet decided whether my daughter and I will move as well. Uprooting her from school is the least of my priorities now. But at least we've now found a place for my husband. So in a few days, we'll be moving into new digs. In the meantime, we've gone out last weekend to the Singapore Zoo. Sharing some pics here.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/8627298803/" title="Untitled by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="Untitled" height="640" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8104/8627298803_a314c92845_z.jpg" width="480" /></a><br />
The last time we were here, Euna was just 4 months old.<br />
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Euna was patiently waiting for her turn to ride this tortoise statue when another child cut in front of her (unaware that someone else was waiting) and she boldly exclaimed, "Hey! Wait for your turn!". Poor child was so embarrassed, she went back to her mother.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/8628407728/" title="P3300145 by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="P3300145" height="374" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8250/8628407728_8dc2ece7a4_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
Here I am testing out the OMD's macro shot. At best, I'm just a hobbyist. The camera makes me look better than I actually am.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/8627299923/" title="P3300163 by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="P3300163" height="640" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8397/8627299923_faec9d457f_z.jpg" width="424" /></a><br />
I think she has inherited her father's fascination with nature.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/8627299523/" title="P3300112 by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="P3300112" height="415" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8386/8627299523_17c4c3452c_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
Those were her cousin's penguins, she said. Her cousin is a fan of Happy Feet. :)<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/8628408916/" title="P3300011 by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="P3300011" height="640" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8253/8628408916_5db8b2c33f_z.jpg" width="480" /></a><br />
She was looking at the white tiger here and she said, the tiger's color should be yellow. "The color's not right, Mama!".<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/8628409488/" title="P3300054 by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="P3300054" height="640" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8113/8628409488_11b0667d3d_z.jpg" width="497" /></a><br />
I don't know where she gets her poses.<br />
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The best thing we can give to her now, aside from our attention, is a variety of experiences.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/8627301423/" title="P3300084 by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="P3300084" height="428" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8118/8627301423_b48f773f5a_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
Feeding time for the baboons. All on attention.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/8628407908/" title="P3300233 by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="P3300233" height="436" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8104/8628407908_6715c64d30_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
Then we got to the Wet Play area and had to buy her new swimwear. Look at that happy face!<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/8627300577/" title="P3300029 by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="P3300029" height="480" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8401/8627300577_dab439c1ec_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
Wacky shot by the Australian outback jeep. Father and daughter are so alike.<br />
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At the end of the day, we have a big decision to make.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/8628409766/" title="P3300091 by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="P3300091" height="640" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8123/8628409766_970df9b1a2_z.jpg" width="480" /></a>
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Dare I put these two apart? My heart is already breaking at the thought of it.<br />
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ryehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06251066036325984107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32773309.post-26172967221325144572012-09-17T01:58:00.000+08:002012-09-17T01:59:26.893+08:00Most Expensive Cheese QuesadillaDo you know where you can get a cheese quesadilla for PHP 290? It's just cheese in between the soft taco and nothing else. I really did not understand the price considering I can get the same thing for PhP 105 at <a href="http://www.hungryfortheworld.com/2012/02/army-navy.html" target="_blank">Army Navy</a>. I could have almost 3 servings of cheese quesadilla at Army Navy for the price of one at...<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/7992704762/" target="_blank" title="ristra's cheese quesadilla by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="ristra's cheese quesadilla" height="350" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8455/7992704762_4284c5fb33.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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Granted it's bigger than <a href="http://www.hungryfortheworld.com/2012/02/army-navy.html" target="_blank">Army Navy's</a> single serving but not significantly so.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/7992695953/" target="_blank" title="ristra's cheese quesadilla by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="ristra's cheese quesadilla" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8303/7992695953_09c7fa6e84.jpg" width="375" /></a><br />
Especially that the sides don't have cheese filling anymore!<br />
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Find out after the jump!<br />
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It's the mexican place at the ground floor of Fairways Tower in BGC none other than Ristra's! I tried their ribs as well. Quite good and enough share so post on that to follow. Otherwise, this cheese quesadilla is a rip-off. I don't know with you but now that I've tried it, I'm getting my cheese quesadilla fix somewhere else!<br />
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<br />ryehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06251066036325984107noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32773309.post-20894120651486351212012-09-17T01:40:00.002+08:002012-09-17T01:44:22.508+08:00I've Registered!<a href="http://t.co/IVBjmXur" target="_blank">Tweeted </a>sometime last week that there's a special voter's registration happening over the weekend. It happened last Saturday at Mind Museum, BGC, Taguig. I made it a point to drop by, allotting 30 minutes of my time for the said activity.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/7992611720/" target="_blank" title="special voter's registration notice by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="special voter's registration notice" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8313/7992611720_94fc4bfb31.jpg" width="373" /></a><br />
Notice inside the elevator of our condo.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/7992577375/" target="_blank" title="special voter's registration 2012 bgc by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="special voter's registration 2012 bgc" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8447/7992577375_704c891bdc.jpg" width="434" /></a><br />
We arrived around 4 pm in the afternoon armed with our passports (valid government ID) and proof of billing (to show we are Taguig residents).<br />
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Steps were numbered and the process was computerized. First step was to provide our passports and proof of billing and 2 women behind the table set about looking for our records. I was given a green form while my husband was given white. Green form meant I'm updating my record and white meant my husband is a virgin voter. Next year, 2013 will be the first year he'll ever vote (and to think he's older than me)!<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/7992586274/" target="_blank" title="special voter's registration 2012 by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="special voter's registration 2012" height="312" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8037/7992586274_c98c776fa0.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
A number of people inside registering.<br />
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I've been an absentee voter for the past decade so why vote now? Because my husband kept telling me, whenever I'd whine about this and that regarding the government, that I had no right to complain. So, to make my case and therefore have that right to complain, I am voting in next year's midterm legislative and local elections! With a growing daughter and a vested interest in the country (I have no plans of moving abroad as of the moment), this is my way of making a difference. I am filling out my list of senators to vote for while I definitely know who to avoid!<br />
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Funny thing was, as we were going outside at almost half past 4, a man was trying to come in to register. He was informed that the activity has closed already and they were just accommodating those who were inside. His point was, the notice was for 9 am til 5 pm. If they were going to close at 4:30, the notice should have said just that. Couldn't fault him really as even the notice I saw said 5:00 pm. Clearly, these were volunteers/workers who wanted to cut 30 minutes from that 8 hour budgeted time.<br />
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Didn't make the special voter's registration but still would like to register? You can still register at the Taguig City Hall, 57 General Luna Street, Tuktukan, Taguig City.<br />
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Have you registered already?<br />
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<br />ryehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06251066036325984107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32773309.post-16416954685774049472012-09-10T00:11:00.002+08:002012-09-10T00:37:40.774+08:00Best Salmon Sashimi in ManilaI can't believe I've stayed away from blogging for more than a month. I'm trying my hand at being a good organized mother which meant cutting back on my web surfing time. It has been working so far but I doubt if I have the discipline to carry this on for long. I want to keep informed!<br />
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Anyway, thought I'd drop by and share the good news: I've found one of the best Salmon Sashimi in Manila!<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/7963302450/" target="_Blank" title="best salmon in manila by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="best salmon in manila" height="458" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8314/7963302450_230f186ae6.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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Just look at that beautiful meat. Its orange flesh is firm and bright. Can you guess where this is?<br />
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One of the best because I'm sure there are a lot out there which I don't know about (but need to know so your favorites are most welcome!)<br />
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Find out after the jump!<br />
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My husband and I are salmon sashimi lovers. We'd go to Saisaki at Glorietta, Makati just to binge on it. But nothing prepared me for the salmon in Hong Kong. When I got back, the salmon in Manila (Saisaki and SumoSam) was just not up to par anymore. Saisaki's great for quantity but if you're looking for quality, get it somewhere else.<br />
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Drumroll please...<br />
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Thankfully, Metrobank came out with a 50% discount on meals at Kimpura, Greenbelt 5 when dining on weekdays and lunch only on Saturdays using certain <a href="http://www.boy-kuripot.com/2012/08/metrobank-50-off-treats.html#axzz25zSPtwfy" target="_blank">Metrobank credit cards</a> (I'm quite happy with them as of the moment with all the promotions they're running). Yes, Kimpura has one of the best Salmon Sashimi in Manila! Not only that, they also have a lot of excellent dishes on their menu. I should sit down one day and enumerate them. Haha!<br />
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Btw, my toddler turned 3 years old almost a month ago. </div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/7963304174/" target="_Blank" title="euna and her play doh cake by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="euna and her play doh cake" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8457/7963304174_de42e7813c.jpg" width="374" /></a>
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Euna and her play-doh cake painstakingly put together by me.<br />
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I might not be able to update as often as I'd want to but if you'd like to keep updated of my food adventures, follow me on <a href="http://www.foodspotting.com/hftw" target="_blank">foodspotting</a>! :)<br />
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ryehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06251066036325984107noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32773309.post-80400262577238840142012-07-19T00:23:00.000+08:002012-07-19T00:25:53.301+08:00J.CO Donuts Now In Makati!Around first week of July, J.CO Donuts at Greenbelt 3 finally opened. We went there about 3/4 days after first day of opening and there was this line. I stood there for more than 15 minutes waiting for my turn. Unfortunately, donuts were flying off the rack faster than they were being refilled so there wasn't a lot of choices left for me.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/7597768482/" target="_blank" title="line at jco donuts by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="line at jco donuts" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8025/7597768482_4fd61a0f07.jpg" width="375" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/7597772748/" target="_blank" title="oreo & alcapone by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="oreo & alcapone" height="322" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7129/7597772748_9f42a368d4.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
Oreo and Alcapone (topped with almonds) donuts. These varieties were available after I've placed my order for a dozen and I was loathed to change them (though changes are accommodated) so had these for dine in instead.<br />
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More photos after the jump!<br />
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<a name='more'></a>One dozen J.CO donuts for the road. I forgot the names of each but my 2 favorites are all on the top most row. That would be the Chocolate Caviar Donut (sprinkled with those tiny circles that look like balls in a ball bearing) and Blackforest. Yes, all chocolate considering I'm not a "chocolate person".<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/7597774366/" style="background-color: white;" target="_blank" title="one dozen by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="one dozen" height="353" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7265/7597774366_938c8c4675.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
Verdict: H describes eating one like eating air. It's <i>that</i> light! He eats about 2-4 in one sitting since (and I concur) it really doesn't leave a lasting footprint in one's tummy.<br />
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We went back again earlier to order another dozen. This time, there was no line but I suppose it was late already (around 10 pm). But the donut below I just had to order separately (doesn't go with the box of a dozen). This is J.CO's Cheesy Rich donut. True to its name, it's <b><i>smothered </i></b>with cheese!<br />
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</span><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/7597769884/" style="background-color: white;" target="_blank" title="J Club cheesy rich by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="J Club cheesy rich" height="357" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8147/7597769884_31b7abe46e.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
Cheese and whipped cream! <i>Nakaka-umay</i> though with all that cheese.<br />
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</span><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/7597775936/" style="background-color: white;" target="_blank" title="jcoccino by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="jcoccino" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8143/7597775936_90aa45bbe2.jpg" width="374" /></a><br />
H's JCOccino.<br />
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Definitely, the presence of J.CO in the Philippines provides options and variety to donut eating folks like me.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/7597771408/" target="_blank" title="tissue by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="tissue" height="338" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8428/7597771408_e0f37675c3.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
Wala lang! :)<br />
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J.CO Donut is available at the 3rd floor of Greenbelt 3, Makati (just beside <a href="http://www.hungryfortheworld.com/2012/03/monday-bites-nanbantei-of-tokyo.html#more" target="_blank">Nanbantei of Tokyo</a>).<br />
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<br />ryehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06251066036325984107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32773309.post-78460150655867083532012-07-07T23:59:00.000+08:002014-07-08T21:26:55.939+08:00Overnight at Disneyland Hotel, HongkongSorry for the late update. It has been a hectic month end. Just crazy how the end of June is end of 2nd quarter and half one of the year at the same time. I'm still recovering from all the toxins my body must have produced during the past 2 weeks. But back to regular programming.<br />
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I promised <a href="http://www.hungryfortheworld.com/2012/06/day-in-disneyland-hk-part-2.html" target="_blank">here </a>a post on the Disneyland Hotel in Hongkong. So here it is.<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/7521067158/" target="_blank" title="euna at the lobby by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="euna at the lobby" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8427/7521067158_d0cfc6d488.jpg" width="333" /></a><br />
Euna at the hotel's lobby.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/7521068818/" target="_blank" title="chandelier at the lobby by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="chandelier at the lobby" height="500" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7130/7521068818_ed203518e8.jpg" width="331" /></a><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">I really love the high ceilings and floor to ceiling arched windows providing the hotel lobby with lots of natural light. And that's a lovely chandelier with intricate patterns.</span><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/7521067880/" target="_blank" title="minnie statue by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="minnie statue" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8425/7521067880_da3a68cf1f.jpg" width="335" /></a><br />
Minnie Mouse statue at the lobby. Euna didn't know where to settle her eyes on.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/7521069632/" target="_blank" title="lovely carpeting by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="lovely carpeting" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8158/7521069632_366bf20024.jpg" width="330" /></a><br />
I love the detail on the carpeting.<br />
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More of the Disneyland Hotel after the jump!<br />
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We went to the nearest restroom in the lobby for Euna to change to her Snow White costume before heading to the Disneyland Park.<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/7521070392/" target="_blank" title="common area restroom with diaper changer by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="common area restroom with diaper changer" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8159/7521070392_2ec1d5132c.jpg" width="333" /></a><br />
Diaper changing station for kids.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/7521071144/" target="_blank" title="mirror! mirror! by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="mirror! mirror!" height="500" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7127/7521071144_4057df6f2e.jpg" width="388" /></a><br />
Mirror, mirror on the wall! It felt like being in a storybook.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/7521072180/" title="snow white euna at the lobby by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="snow white euna at the lobby" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8433/7521072180_91b81239fe.jpg" width="333" /></a>
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Euna at the hotel lobby already in her Snow White costume. There usually is a Disney character at the lobby specially around check out time. Provides a great opportunity for photoshoots!<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/7521055960/" target="_blank" title="reception area for kids by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="reception area for kids" height="297" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7123/7521055960_c35cec99b2.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
Kids have their waiting area while mum and dad checks in (our out).<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/7521056710/" target="_blank" title="hallway by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="hallway" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8148/7521056710_90dcb39194.jpg" width="333" /></a><br />
Hallway leading to the rooms.<br />
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We got the cheapest room in the hotel.<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/7521057274/" target="_blank" title="euna opening the door by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="euna opening the door" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8284/7521057274_88de9aa5fd.jpg" width="359" /></a><br />
Euna's excited to see what's inside!<br />
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Two double beds! Can easily fit a family of four! We ended up piling our stuff on the other bed.<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/7521057820/" target="_blank" title="2 double beds by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="2 double beds" height="315" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8421/7521057820_0d7b63e223.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
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That's one excited girl who asked for the tv to be turned on who had the option of several Disney channels.<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/7521060054/" target="_blank" title="excited euna by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="excited euna" height="300" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8155/7521060054_aeb048890a.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/7521065184/" target="_blank" title="beside stationery by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="beside stationery" height="333" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8018/7521065184_c8587074e5.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
Bedside stationery. No more spa treatments for us. Too tired (and expensive!).<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/7521059454/" target="_blank" title="view from the room by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="view from the room" height="330" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8432/7521059454_885d38d09d.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
View from the room.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/6868382954/" target="_blank" title="kiddie meal at disneyland hk by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="kiddie meal at disneyland hk" height="343" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7215/6868382954_1f97c49257.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
Room service for the little girl. You can read about it <a href="http://www.hungryfortheworld.com/2012/03/kiddie-bites-at-disneyland-hongkong.html" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/7521064412/" target="_blank" title="robes and slippers for every one in the family by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="robes and slippers for every one in the family" height="500" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7133/7521064412_9f8b5b8093.jpg" width="333" /></a><br />
Love how each one in the family is accounted for. There are 3 robes here. One for mum, another for dad, and another for the little one, all sized accordingly. Even the slippers!<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/7521060816/" target="_blank" title="old world charm by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="old world charm" height="333" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7260/7521060816_c753086768.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
Love this old world ice bucket stand with tongs.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/7521061554/" target="_blank" title="safe and bar by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="safe and bar" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8161/7521061554_1acfcf37e1.jpg" width="333" /></a><br />
Safe, small fridge, biscuits and chocolates.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/7521063156/" target="_blank" title="bathroom by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="bathroom" height="500" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7112/7521063156_1a66f380b1.jpg" width="333" /></a><br />
Lovely bathroom. Amenities boxed with the Snow White dwarves on the front. How fitting for our Snow White princess (though this was lost on her)!<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/7521062388/" target="_blank" title="bathroom sink by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="bathroom sink" height="333" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7276/7521062388_db2faf3766.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
Another shot with the loo on the side. The bath rub is to the right.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/7521063846/" target="_blank" title="do not disturb by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="do not disturb" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8015/7521063846_fa6da24f4b.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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I guess that's it. Time to call it a night. There's still breakfast the next day at the Enchanted Garden where one can meet and greet the Disney characters!<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/7521066390/" target="_blank" title="enchanted breakfast by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="enchanted breakfast" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8022/7521066390_db58a0246a.jpg" width="343" /></a>
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Watch out for that!ryehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06251066036325984107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32773309.post-61882715396964387072012-06-27T03:25:00.001+08:002012-06-27T03:28:08.004+08:00A Day In Disneyland, HK - Part 2Still fuming mad at H for <a href="http://www.hungryfortheworld.com/2012/06/day-in-disneyland-hk-part-1.html" target="_blank">missing that opportunity for our little girl</a>. After the Flights of Fantasy Parade, we went over to Adventureland not really knowing what to do next.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/7449541698/" target="_blank" title="Disneyland HK full map by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="Disneyland HK full map" height="410" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8020/7449541698_e45b8e49ab.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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We went on for a boat ride.<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/7448684842/" target="_blank" title="DSC_0103 by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0103" height="333" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8164/7448684842_ca7a51fb11.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
Guide is in English. There are several languages. You fall in line on your preferred one.<br />
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More aptly referred to as the Jungle River Cruise.<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/7449541962/" target="_blank" title="Adventureland - Jungle River Cruise by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="Adventureland - Jungle River Cruise" height="406" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7249/7449541962_30893e5a07.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/7448686132/" target="_blank" title="DSC_0109 by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0109" height="333" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7133/7448686132_94b4e592d1.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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All man-made.<br />
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This fire looks tame in the pic as I wasn't able to snap when it was blazing hot.<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/7448687036/" target="_blank" title="DSC_0115 by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0115" height="333" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7271/7448687036_7166b44d04.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
Scared the hell out of our 2.5 year old!<br />
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More photos after the jump.<br />
<a name='more'></a>After getting off that boat ride, Euna's attentioned was drawn to this Winnie the Pooh bubble machine.<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/7448688578/" target="_blank" title="DSC_0128 by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0128" height="500" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7260/7448688578_4987b95083.jpg" width="333" /></a><br />
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For a good 30 minutes or so, she went around trying to catch the bubbles.<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/7448687830/" target="_blank" title="DSC_0121 by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0121" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8164/7448687830_5ae7e07a86.jpg" width="394" /></a><br />
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Until we got tired of seeing her run after them.<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/7448689642/" target="_blank" title="DSC_0142 by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0142" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8165/7448689642_c5c067eb2a.jpg" width="444" /></a><br />
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Crossing over to the other side of the park, the sun was already setting.<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/7448690316/" target="_blank" title="DSC_0147 by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0147" height="300" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7140/7448690316_a4b0820a5f.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
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Arrived at Tomorrowland.<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/7449540868/" target="_blank" title="Tomorrowland - Orbitron by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="Tomorrowland - Orbitron" height="426" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7109/7449540868_87eecc2082.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">Got on the Orbitron - a tame revolving ride with Euna.</span><br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/7448691588/" target="_blank" title="DSC_0157 by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0157" height="333" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8002/7448691588_e892515afd.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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Nothing exciting. Just a little bit sick being a few feet of the ground.<br />
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H and Euna wanted to get on a car in Autopia. <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/7449541286/" target="_blank" title="Autopia by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="Autopia" height="402" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8151/7449541286_1e61ee55e4.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
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While they waited for their turn (they nearly waited an hour minutes for a less than 10 minute drive), I had these:<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/7448692364/" target="_blank" title="DSC_0165 by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0165" height="329" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8007/7448692364_31b9a3e231.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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Again, food at Disneyland is a robbery. But then, everything is (for 3rd world folks like me)!<br />
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By the time they were done, the sun had fully set and it was nearly time for the fireworks display at 8 pm!<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/7448693130/" target="_blank" title="DSC_0167 by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0167" height="315" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7112/7448693130_f5596e8df2.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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We hurried and look for open rides, quiet not ready to throw in the towel and call it a day, we went over to Fantasyland and were still able to get on "It's a Small world" (it's right behind the Mad Hatter Tea Cups on the map).<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/7449542434/" target="_blank" title="fantasy land by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="fantasy land" height="408" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8022/7449542434_d7730e6174.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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The display really grabbed Euna's attention!<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/7448694616/" target="_blank" title="DSC_0188 by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0188" height="333" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8015/7448694616_a72f2a74b4.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
I grew up listening to the It's a Small World song.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/7448695690/" target="_blank" title="DSC_0191 by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0191" height="339" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7133/7448695690_5fab398350.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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Hello Aladdin and the flying carpet!<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/7448693856/" target="_blank" title="DSC_0195 by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0195" height="294" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8155/7448693856_1b7f63f28e.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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Filipino display in It's a Small World with the tarsier, bahay-kubo, and the girls in Maria Clara outfit.<br />
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Thankfully, the Mad Hatter Tea Cups ride was still open as well.<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/7448696696/" target="_blank" title="DSC_0212 by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0212" height="287" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7125/7448696696_037f55d6a7.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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Then it was time for the fireworks display.<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/7448697512/" target="_blank" title="DSC_0223 by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0223" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8014/7448697512_b999a4cb7d.jpg" width="333" /></a>
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Everyone congregating in front of the castle. Sorry for the blurry pics. They're excited!<br />
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Just right to be excited with the fireworks display. It was awe-inspiring and it really brought out the inner child in me (the Flights of Fantasy parade not so much).<br />
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Souvenir pic along Main Street, USA.<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/7448698364/" target="_blank" title="DSC_0229 by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0229" height="333" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8167/7448698364_bf97ef9ef5.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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Checked out whether there was any decent dessert left. We went out empty-handed.<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/7448699260/" target="_blank" title="DSC_0231 by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0231" height="444" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8028/7448699260_b7095441d9.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
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Waiting for the bus to take us to Disneyland Hotel.<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/7448700830/" target="_blank" title="DSC_0238 by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0238" height="333" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8025/7448700830_015ca438f2.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/7448701538/" target="_blank" title="DSC_0242 by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0242" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8005/7448701538_7ff8f06de4.jpg" width="333" /></a><br />
Here we are!<br />
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Disneyland Hotel next!<br />
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<br />ryehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06251066036325984107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32773309.post-89692144057705043632012-06-22T02:54:00.002+08:002012-06-27T03:04:06.774+08:00A Day In Disneyland, HK - Part 1I thought I'd share some photos of when we were there last March. There's a lot so breaking it into 2 parts.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/7414567414/" target="_blank" title="snow white in hk by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="snow white in hk" height="500" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5448/7414567414_4494c65fd8.jpg" width="362" /></a><br />
After leaving our luggage at Disneyland Hotel. Euna in her Snow White costume. So excited!<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/7414567912/" target="_blank" title="DSC_0318 by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0318" height="291" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7137/7414567912_aa2c3fc821.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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Disneyland, HK entrance. We bought our tickets from the hotel.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/7414568404/" target="_blank" title="DSC_0324 by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0324" height="500" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7246/7414568404_3b4f9f87d3.jpg" width="333" /></a>
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More photos after the jump!<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/7414569034/" target="_blank" title="DSC_0330 by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0330" height="273" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5316/7414569034_8889c11e4a.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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We had no itinerary arriving at past 1. My little girl ended up running after bubbles.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/7414569670/" target="_blank" title="DSC_0336 by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0336" height="333" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7268/7414569670_52a7fac022.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
Due to proximity, we decided to just get on the train and get an idea how big Disneyland HK is as it goes around the perimeter. The ride took about 20 mins if I'm not mistaken with one stop. I forgot which area that was.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/7449541698/" target="_blank" title="Disneyland HK full map by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="Disneyland HK full map" height="410" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8020/7449541698_e45b8e49ab.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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To give you an idea, here's the full map of Disneyland, HK.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/7414570088/" target="_blank" title="DSC_0363 by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0363" height="333" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8165/7414570088_afcd9e0987.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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Decided to get some Mickey shaped waffles after the train ride for Euna.<br />
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But since that wasn't enough, lunch for adults at Plaza Inn while Euna had her midday nap.<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/7414584188/" target="_blank" title="DSC_0087 by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0087" height="302" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5469/7414584188_639968d48f.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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And then it was time for the Flights of Fantasy parade at 3pm. This was on Main Street, USA.<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/7414570670/" target="_blank" title="DSC_0392 by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0392" height="500" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7266/7414570670_504fd289fe.jpg" width="333" /></a>
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Those balloons are wickedly expensive (and we couldn't bring it home. So much for a souvenir)!<br />
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So H thought they should go to the shop across the street to get Euna a hat...<br />
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And that's how they ended up on the other side opposite me. They took too long choosing for a hat that the street has been cordonned of and they can no longer cross since the parade has started!<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/7414571952/" target="_blank" title="DSC_0001 by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0001" height="333" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7247/7414571952_cc256cff8d.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/7414571342/" target="_blank" title="DSC_0002 by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0002" height="333" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7255/7414571342_1314ff0ea3.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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Jumbo the Elephant led the parade.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/7414572644/" target="_blank" title="DSC_0010 by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0010" height="297" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7117/7414572644_1c13a203dc.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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Lovely, bright colors!<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/7414573458/" target="_blank" title="DSC_0014 by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0014" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8018/7414573458_37712b1e09.jpg" width="342" /></a>
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And Goofy and Minnie showed up. I can really just kill my husband for being on the other side of the street! I'm sure no one can paint the happiness on our daughter's face that time! And I missed it :( Miss #1!<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/7414574202/" target="_blank" title="DSC_0018 by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0018" height="311" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7128/7414574202_248fbe7647.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/7414574908/" target="_blank" title="DSC_0022 by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0022" height="500" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7258/7414574908_1df90c3ef6.jpg" width="333" /></a>
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And they're gone too soon!<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/7414575662/" target="_blank" title="DSC_0027 by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0027" height="500" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7275/7414575662_c089f1f541.jpg" width="333" /></a>
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I wonder how hard it'd be to strap these on and jump around?<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/7414576376/" target="_blank" title="DSC_0036 by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0036" height="500" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5454/7414576376_bd9d3445a2.jpg" width="332" /></a>
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And then it was fairytale time.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/7414577118/" target="_blank" title="DSC_0043 by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0043" height="333" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7271/7414577118_8aa8134e31.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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I was sure something was up when the dancers started approaching the crowd.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/7414577848/" target="_blank" title="DSC_0046 by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0046" height="500" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5345/7414577848_a859485f24.jpg" width="333" /></a>
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I motioned to H to give Euna to her!<br />
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But he was so busy with being starstruck, he totally missed it and missed the opportunity! The toddlers and kids danced in the middle together with the dancers! Those who were lucky enough anyway! Miss #2! I was so pissed with H that time. I so wanted to get a picture of my little girl in her Snow White costume dance with together with the dancers! That was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity! What are the chances Euna will get picked next time (that is assuming we'll have the resources to go back to HK within the next 2 years or so)?<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/7414579256/" target="_blank" title="DSC_0040 by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0040" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8015/7414579256_724ba29277.jpg" width="401" /></a>
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Cinderella, Snow White, Aurora (and Belle behind Cinderella). I grew up watching these Disney movies secretly hoping they were true but knowing it's not.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/7414580058/" target="_blank" title="DSC_0049 by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0049" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8002/7414580058_f8fc16360b.jpg" width="333" /></a>
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Bumblebees from Pooh's hunny!<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/7414580754/" target="_blank" title="DSC_0055 by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0055" height="332" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8160/7414580754_39038c29c8.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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Again, lovely vibrant colors!<br />
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I really love the colors, costumes, makeup, everything! Clearly, a lot of thought went into it from the choreography, music, ensemble...<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/7414582030/" target="_blank" title="DSC_0064 by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0064" height="500" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5035/7414582030_c77610b349.jpg" width="333" /></a>
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Tinkerbell's fellow fairies.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/7414582682/" target="_blank" title="DSC_0065 by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0065" height="333" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7274/7414582682_6d450d0c79.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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Hello Tink!<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/7414583440/" target="_blank" title="DSC_0086 by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0086" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8157/7414583440_205a82a143.jpg" width="333" /></a><br />
And then it was back in the shop for us to buy Euna that souvenir!<br />
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That sums up Disneyland HK - Part I. Look out for Part II!<br />
<br />ryehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06251066036325984107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32773309.post-30485372639258765612012-06-13T22:32:00.001+08:002012-06-13T22:34:33.914+08:00Toddler and Breastfeeding Room Within a Philippine Airport!I am not sure with the rest of the Philippines but this is the first airport I saw within the country with a toddler room plus breastfeeding room within the boarding area!<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/7183402735/" target="_blank" title="toddler and bfeeding room by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="toddler and bfeeding room" height="342" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5450/7183402735_7737dd6a8e.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
Thank you CAAP Gender & Development!<br />
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What joy to see this!<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/7368630444/" target="_blank" title="toddler room by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="toddler room" height="500" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5191/7368630444_f2b92cecd1.jpg" width="374" /></a><br />
Finally a toddler room where my daughter can play while waiting for boarding. Yes, it does make a world of difference to make time just pass by when flying with a toddler. Traveling indeed is easier!<br />
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<a name='more'></a>If you're wondering where this is, it's the Davao International Airport. It's the only airport I've been in within the country with a breastfeeding room + toddler play area to boot! This beats NAIA 1, 2, and 3. I have been to all 3 and never once have I seen one, even just a breastfeeding room (correct me if I'm mistaken)!<br />
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They used to have <a href="http://www.hungryfortheworld.com/2010/04/flying-solo-with-euna-and-davao-airport.html" target="_blank">a breastfeeding area outside the boarding area</a>. I was happy with it but it was a hassle passing through the xray machine and security checks back and forth.<br />
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Now, even better, they have it within the boarding area! I haven't checked if the one outside just near the elevator is stil operational.<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/7183399347/" target="_Blank" title="breastfeeding area by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="breastfeeding area" height="500" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7083/7183399347_ca3247f985.jpg" width="374" /></a><br />
I'm sure breastfeeding moms are happy to have this!<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32320993@N03/7368633768/" target="_blank" title="euna @ the toddler room by hungryfortheworld, on Flickr"><img alt="euna @ the toddler room" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8166/7368633768_5aaf86f4b9.jpg" width="374" /></a><br />
And that's one happy toddler! And I'm a happy mama!<br />
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I was informed by the attendant that this project became operational March 7th, 2012 ( I wondered because they weren't there yet December 2011). The rooms are open for use until 9pm.<br />
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Kudos and thank you Davao and the persons behind the CAAP Gender & Development. Hope you influence the other airports to follow suit in the future!<br />
<br />ryehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06251066036325984107noreply@blogger.com0