sychellebanda

[sychellebanda]

ANONG KWENTONG WEEKEND MO?

As a typical working girl I would always look forward on planning some quick trips to have time to relax specially on weekends. And I'm grateful that I always have these squad na always G! sa mga trip ko.

While scrolling on my facebook I came across this place at Zambales that is interesting to visit and seems to be the perfect time to give a go to the camping by the beach trip that robbie always wanted. Pero syempre we wanted that our trip would also be budget friendly and since the resort  has a camping option, it is a great choice for our spontaneous adventure. So the squad decided to go for it. But when we're about to reserve na sana for our slot, they said they are already full but we can take a chance by walking-in at the resort. So kahit ganun laban laban na lang kasi nakapag rent na rin kami ng sasakyan. :)

We rented via Diamond- rent- a car, it was a smooth and easy transaction. We just called their office and ask for the availability of the chosen car which is Toyota Vios, then they just send the requirements thru email and all confirmations thru phone call. We used a credit card to avail their service of weekend promo for 2 days and 1 night rent for 1099.00 for each day- total of 2198.00 for the 2 days. Then a security deposit of 5000.00 until you return the car to their office at Bicutan. Make sure lang to return the car without damages so that security deposit will not be forfeited.

Then Jeddin picked-up the car at Bicutan around 10 pm of Friday so that we can go as early as 4 am next day. Then sinundo na lang nya kami ng maaga. And yey! we're off to Kwentong Dagat San Felipe Zambales!

Since this is a budget trip we made sure that we bring our own camping tents,sleeping needs,utensils,small gas stove and any condiments we can get from our home.Then for our foods we just bought at Walter Mart on our way.

There's an environmental fee of 20.00 each before you enter the way to the resort. Then Entrance fee at the resort is 250.00 each no fee for the tent that we pitch. And a security deposit of 1,000.00 that is refundable or if you'll avail foods/beverages/liquor and corkage fee for the stove you can just use it. * no corkage fee for food but for drinks they have 1,000.00 per reservation.

By the way they have common kitchen there that can be use by all the guest, sink and ref is free of use, while their stove is 300.00/day. There’s a common cr/shower you can also use.

Luckily we arrived at the resort around 10:30 am and there's still spots for walk-in campers. So we set up our tents in a good spot. Then we prepare our lunch since we’re all hungry.

The ambiance of the place was really relaxing and refreshing na parang ayaw mo na umuwi hahaha minsan lang naman kasi mapunta sa ganitong lugar :)

Btw they have cottages that are super instagrammable you can check on their page for the rates.

After eating we went to the beach to play and swim, take some photos and enjoy the vibes of the beach.

Then we went back to our tents and get change. Taking strolls at the area sharing stories and capturing the moments while eating snacks and waiting for the sunset.

The golden hour is one of the best memories for me in that place because it’s really beautiful. Not all the time  we can encounter such a nice view.

When the sun is already set we went back to prepare for our dinner. We marinated some chicken earlier to grill for our dinner, but we end up just frying it haha:).

We have some drinking sesh while having jamming na may halong kulitan, sobrang nakaka-unwind talaga. We just bought drinks at the resort since we don’t want to pay for corkage fee, anyways we don’t drink a lot, so few bottles of drink will do.

We wake up at around 5 am to stroll and watch the sunrise by the beach and while waiting for the free breakfast of the resort to be served :) haha

They have free coffee and toast breads with diff jams. But we still cooked our bacon and dried pusit for our breakfast.

I can’t believe we need to leave such a beautiful place right away. I hope we can get back here and stay longer.

Then we started to prepare for our check out at 10 am so that we can still have some time to take some photos and have fun before we head back to Manila. It was a really quick get away but it was memorable.

On our way back to Manila we got a flat tire while we’re at the express way. Fortunately someone help us to change the tire. We forgot to get his name but we are grateful that he really stopped and give us a help. It was our first time to encounter such problem on our trip but thankfully it’s just a minor one.

2 days and 1 night trip might be really a quick getaway but if you’ll enjoy every moments it wouldn’t feel that way. We arrived at Quezon City at around 5 pm. Jeddin take us home one by one before he proceed at Bicutan to return the car. You need to have it filled up with gas in full tank and have a car wash. We spent 1,900.00 for the gas on our whole trip. Then a total toll fee of 670.00.

And that’s the wrap of our kwentong weekend. I hope our other friends can join us too on our next trip.

#kwentongdagat #zambales #discoverph #squadgoals #beachcamping #chill #goodvibes #seaside #sychventures #quickgetaway #joyride #beach #sunset #sunrise #sand #diamondrentacar

[sychellebanda]

 OUR D.I.Y EXO LADDER TOUR~

Planning of trips are one of the most exciting things to look forward. After we watched the show of our favorite idol group EXO, we planned on going at Taiwan, we explored the southern part  of it where Kaohsiung and Kenting are located. These places are used as the location of EXO LADDER TOUR-  Fangirling in new level!! YEY! 

We tried to experience the beautiful places, fun activities and delicious foods that they enjoyed during their stay there as much as we could. 

We stayed there for 5 days and 4 nights. Our round trip flight was booked  via Air Asia, RT ticket cost PHP 6,590.00 each quite pricey since there is no promo that time. We departed at NAIA Terminal 3 at around 4:15 pm and arrived at Kaohsiung International airport at around 6:00 pm. The first thing we have to do is to check in to our hotel, we already booked our hotel via booking.com and informed them of our arrival time to the hotel and it is a pay  at hotel process (2165.00 NTD).

Our hotel name is EZ-stay Inn– (6F., No. 66-6, Zhili 1st Road, Xinxing District , Kaohsiung, 800, Taiwan - 自立一路66-6號6樓, 新興區, (高雄, 800)

From the airport we just take MRT – we bought our iPass card (this card is re loadable for transportation and small transactions like in convenient stores, you can also reload there.) We purchased the card for 100 NTD and load it initially with 100 NTD for our train fares) it is located at the ground floor where we also pre booked our pocket wifi and sim card. (The pocket wifi cost PHP 492.00  for 5 days at kkday ,while the sim card is PHP 436.00 each for 5 days at klook) we availed 1 pocket wifi and 2 sim cards.

Then we take the Train to Formosa Boulevard Station- It is the first attraction that we saw. The Station has the “Dome of Light”, known as the largest glass work, designed by Italian artist Narcissus Quagliata. It has a light show schedule as well and it’s for free. We haven’t witness the show that time because we’re early for the next schedule, but it is still awesome.

After taking some photos we walk to exit no. 11 and go straight to Liuhe 2nd Road and turn right to Zili 1st Road, then you can see the E-Z stay at your right hand. Our hotel is near to convenient and food stores, and streets away to Liuhe night market.

Upon check in we have to pay our full payment and then started unpacking our things at our room to get ready for dinner. It was quite hot than the usual weather we experienced for the last 2 trips we had in Taiwan but still it’s okay since we’re used to that kind of weather. Actually it’s quite tiring since we just take a walk with our luggage from the Formosa station so we decided to rest first.

Then we had our dinner at the Liuhe night market at around 9:30 pm. For us to explore more on foods we opt to have a pot money so we can buy different  dishes. We have 105 NTD budget each for our foods multiplied by 4 so we have 420 NTD. We bought beef, dumplings, spicy chicken feet, takoyaki, milktea, and fried rice with shrimp. Everything was so good specially the milktea, beef and takoyaki, we are just quite disappointed with the dumplings that we ate, it was quite different to the taste that we are expecting but overall it’s still delicious. After eating we just take some stroll at the night market before heading back to the hotel. And that ends our first night at Kaohsiung.

DAY 2

For our first official day of tour we should leave our hotel by 8:00 am but we have quite a lot of morning routine, so we started our breakfast at around 9:00 am  hahaha very late for our target schedule but it’s fine, we have all our time for this tour since it is a DIY trip. So we just have our quick breakfast at 7-11 near to the MRT station.

Our first stop is the Lingya Street Art village at the Weiwuying station, this is where EXO ladder tour started their first mission. From Formosa station it is at stop 10 (orange line), Alight at Weiwuying Station and walk to exit 5, turn right onto Jianjun Road.  

And you can already see the colorful works by international street artist in every corner of the place and there’s no entrance fee for the place. Just roam around and explore the streets.

We tried to find each mural that is part of the EXO Ladder game. And the feeling was really “nakakakilig” Imagine seeing those in person, we really felt  that we are also doing the game and it was really awesome. Of course we took photos on each mural from the EXO Ladder.

It was just quite tiring since the weather is really hot that time and we need to take some rest at the near store to freshen up before going to the next place.

The nearest place from the Weiwuying station via train is the Pier 2 Art Center where the Hamasen  Museum of Taiwan Railway Located and The twotwogo restaurant which is also part of the EXO Ladder.

From the Weiwuying station take the train and alight at the Formosa Blvd Station and change to Orange line then alight at Yanchengpu Station Exit 1. You can actually walk from the station then just use the Google Maps to locate it. But due to the hot weather and the time we reached the area is really exhausting to walk, so we decided to take a taxi cab and paid around 90 NTD. when we arrived at Pier 2 we look first for the restaurant where the EXO spent their allowance by buying some Cheesecake, Lemon Juice and Iced Americano. The restaurant is named Twotwogo and luckily we sat at the  same spot where the EXO enjoyed their refreshments. And Of course we tried to order some of the foods that they ate.

Quite pricey but we enjoyed the food. The Cheesecake is 90 NTD and the Lemon Juice was around 90 NTD also as far as I remember.

 After taking our refreshments we take some strolls to the warehouses that turned into exhibits some has free entrance and some has fees. We just entered the one that is free since we still have some places on our Itinerary. Then on the other side of Pier 2 you can see the Hamasen Railway. The place was really big and full of arts and sculptures of different artists, you’ll enjoy every corner of it.

When we saw the Hamasen  Museum of Taiwan Railway  we got excited since they rode that little train. The  train trip experience cost 149 NTD. Unfortunately we haven’t ride that train because the operation just opened when we’re about to leave for our next trip and we cannot wait for the next batch of passengers so we just watched it then went to the next stop.

We are quite exhausted after  walking a lot and we haven’t found the easiest way to the restaurant where EXO ate and have their ladder game. So we just take UBER and get some quick nap on our way.

Finding this restaurant was one of the hardest thing I did when I was looking for the itinerary of our trip there is no definite name for the resto so its hard to find thru google. Fortunately I found someone who went here and got the address from her post - No. 148 Meiming Road, Gushan District, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan 804 ( this is the address we entered  for the pin)  it is called as OLD TIAWAN ORIGINAL CUISINE.

The place has a really nice interior and good set of foods as we watched on the show. But when we arrived at the place it’s already pass 2:00 pm and we forgot that restaurants/eating places there has a cut off time in preparation for the dinner time. So in short we didn’t have a chance to see what’s inside and eat. And we were so hungry that time.  

So we decided to have our late lunch at the Taroko Park since it’s near to our next destination. We just take an UBER to the mall. And then have our quick meal at the food court,  we ordered roasted pecking duck and were happy that it was very tasty.

After eating we just stroll for a while then take another UBER to the Suzuka Circuit Park, Our ticket was pre booked via klook for  5:00 pm tour and it cost PHP 494.00 each for the entrance with rides all you can. 

We went there to experience the circuit park where EXO had there race using the go cart and we also booked our ticket via klook, the circuit park has separate fee when you will use the cart but you can just watch from the balcony area. The ticket cost PHP 1124.00 for each pair for tandem cart. But as we claim our ticket the receptionist told us that we are not qualified for the Tandem cause it needs to be  a male and a female pair. Then getting a separate cart for each will cost us much. So we just decided to refund it and just watch the on going race and took some photos, any way its fun watching it but more exciting when you were the one driving :P. 

After that we opt to try the rides at the park, we also tried the small go cart just to experience the feeling at the track and it was fun. The park is all about teaching tourists specially kids how to drive, all the rides includes learning about driving when you completed the course they will give you  card that you will be needing to get your license for the circuit.

Then we planned on going back at the OLD TIAWAN ORIGINAL CUISINE for our dinner, so we booked again another UBER so we can get to the place fast. As we arrived at the restaurant  we headed to the receptionist but then she says that they are already preparing to close. So we just asked if we can take a photo of the place instead since we really wanted  to explore the place. She allowed us and Of course we take photo at the area where EXO  filmed with their show. 

After that we asked if there’s any night market near the area so we can have our dinner, she gave us directions  and we headed to the market it was quite a long walk but it’s a fun experience for us tho quite tiring since were also hungry. When we reached the market  there was quite a lot of choices, again we had our pot money to buy the foods that we had. I haven’t documented that part since we are really hungry. And then we headed back to our hotel to start packing our luggage cause for the next day we will be heading to  kenting. We got home quite late so we just  decided to buy some of our pasalubong  at the near store at the hotel.

We shopped at around 1:40 am, since the store is open for 24 hrs and they have quite a lot of variety of things we can give to our friends, we just got a budget of 500 NTD each for the first batch of our pasalubongs

Then we get back to our room to fix all the things before we sleep. We have to rest well for our next day adventure.

DAY 3

For our third day, we started by taking turns on preparing. We booked our transfer from our hotel to Kenting hotel that we booked via agoda. The service we booked  thru kkday  cost PHP 3,468.00.

After all the preparation for our kenting tour we had our heavy breakfast given that our travel time is quite long we need to fill in our tummy first. We Checked out at the hotel and leave our luggage at  the lobby area to eat at the near restaurant. 

Then our driver messaged us  just in time  after we finished eating. While we headed  to Kenting  we take that time to get some more sleep to gain our energy.

We arrived at kenting at around 12nn, we  booked our hotel at Agoda for PHP 6,024.12 for our last 3 nights- The name of Hotel is Dajenshan Hotel (No.302, Kending Rd, Kenting Street, Kenting, Taiwan 946). The hotel is just a street away from the Kenting night market and near the Nanwan beach. The Location was really good with near convenience stores, bus stop, car rental and motor scooter rental. The only disadvantage of the hotel is that they don’t have elevator, our room is at the  3rd floor and our luggage is  heavy so it is quite a struggle for us. Then the room that they gave us have a minor problem with its air con. They tried to fix it but it  doesn’t really cool well. So they gave us first fans to use and promised us that they will transfer us to other room. Then we headed downstairs to find some food place for our lunch but when we decided to eat, it’s already around 2:00 pm again but at least we found a restaurant which still caters late lunch.

After eating we go back at the hotel and get change for our beach trip. 

The Nanwan Beach is where  Chen and Chanyeol had there extreme water activities  and dinner by the beach while watching the beautiful sunset. 

We rented a one way car service to take us to the beach for 100 NTD. The beach is awesome tho there are quite lots of tourist that time. Then as we approach the beach area a woman offered us the water activities  we can try and  that she can give us the spot with umbrella and chairs for free if we avail the activities. Since I can’t swim I refused to join the water activity and offered to be the keeper of our things and take photos.  They choose the activity that chen and chanyeol tried as well. 

After the water adventure they are quite tired so we decided  to try the restaurant by the bay where chen and chanyeol eat their dinner. 

But unfortunately the exact store was not there anymore but the spot where they seated is still there and the tables were already reserved. So we just bought some drinks and snacks at the 7-11 near the beach and had some fun at the shore. 

The beach have a closing time at around 6pm  to maintain  the cleanliness of the area.  So we decided to get back to our hotel to get change for the night market. We rented another one way car service for 100 NTD.

The Kenting night market is just a street away from Dajenshan hotel which we really love cause we get to stay  at the market without thinking  of our time. We stroll at the market to check out what are gonna eat for dinner. The foods there are quite affordable, we opted to have a shared budget for our foods so we can eat lots of dishes. 

We bought seafood – salmon, oyster and shrimp for 450 NTD,  grilled squid for 150 NTD, fried crabs for 100NTD and rice for 80 NTD for 4 order. Everything was tasty and mouth watering.  

After eating we look into the other stores and we found a bread same as what Doraemon used to eat as his favorite snack the “HOPIA” and you can choose different flavors, it is 3 for 50 NTD. Then we also found a store that sells alcoholic drinks in a different and unique packaging – it is packaged like a dextrose we bought 2 for 400 NTD. Then we also bought grilled beef for 200 NTD.

That night was one of  the best night for our tummy. Then we headed back to our hotel to take some drinks and rest.

DAY 4

This day was quite full of activities because we had it pre booked via klook. We prepared quite early so that we can get to the first itinerary early and have our breakfast  there. We wanted to take bus at first but we might be lost on our way so we just rented a car rental that is near our hotel, 500 NTD from hotel to National Museum of  Marine Biology  its quite costly compared if we take bus but we wanted to reach the place early so it was alright for us since we can split the fare for 4. Then as we reached the place we get the number of our driver so we can just call him to take us for the next itinerary.  Since we are already booked it at klook, we just let our vouchers checked at the counter and it was just a fast transaction than buying ticket there and it is a discounted price.The entrance cost is PHP 694.00 each.

We begin with eating our breakfast at the food stall inside. We bought siomai for 120 NTD.* TIP Just always bring your water so that you can save money instead of always buying your water and some of the attractions have a water refilling stations  you can use. Hotels also offers refilling stations.

As soon as we’re done eating we began to explore the place where EXO also had their tour. The museum was really awesome and had a lot of attractions. What I loved the most are the penguins and the beluga friend which EXO also met . 

The area was really big and  quite exhausting for our feet since you’ll keep on walking. But everything was amazing, how they created each of the attractions same as the habitat of the sea creatures. If I had a chance I’ll still go back to this place cause its quite relaxing for my eyes. We also recreated some photos where EXO had their activities.

Then we call the driver to take us to where EXO had a ladder activity for their lunch. The place was quite hard to locate but we had the screenshot of the place and ask our driver if he knew the place, fortunately he knows it. YAY! That trip cost us 400 NTD. The place is called DING SHIFANG-鼎食芳. 

The food there was all affordable and we can say that everything was delicious. We ordered the foods that EXO ate when they are there. All of our foods only cost us 360 NTD. Their dumplings are one of the  must try dish.  

After eating we just walk and explore up to the next itinerary, we just use google map and locate PARADISE OF DEER since its near the area. When we get there we just showed our klook voucher to get our tickets- we paid PHP 297.00 each for it. The ticket includes the foods for the deer that you can feed them so that you can pet them.

Upon entering the area a guide will tell the safety precautions and Do’s and Don'ts. You’ll be ask to have your hands sanitize as well, then get the foods for the deer at the counter. You can choose from the carrots or the tall grass.

As you enter the area you’ll already see the place where Sehun stayed  at  while feeding the deer at the cage, since he is scared of the roaming deers.

It was really exciting for me  since I really love to encounter animals . It feels like we are with EXO while feeding them hahaha and we are also trying to find the deer number that they pet. But it was quite hard since there are lots of them there. So we just enjoyed our stay there.

At the side of the paradise of deer the Kenting Bumps Football is located where they had there activity while at the zorb ball. There was no guest the time we went there so I just took a photo.

After that we called our driver to take us back to our hotel. The trip cost 300 NTD. Then we had our snacks and take some rest . By the way we’re also transferred to a bigger and nicer room since they really can’t fix the air con at the existing room we had. We’re really thankful that they gave us  such an awesome room. So we take a nap before we go the night market again for our dinner.

As for our dinner we just bought beef and rice then had  some  different  snacks that we haven’t tried yet. We also went to a authentic tea shop to bought some pasalubong, the owner was really accommodating and  let us tried different teas and some authentic wines. 

We bought some for our boss and friends and went back to hotel. We just had some chit chats and checked our photos and prepare to sleep. 

DAY 5

For our last full day  at Kenting Taiwan we  tried to rent an electric scooter for our free day.  You don’t need  a license to rent and you just need to fill out some forms and left  one passport for security purposes.  We rented  2 e-scooters for 24 hours for 1000 NTD. 

They will teach you how to use it and  will be guided for the practice to ride it.  It was quite exciting for us because it’s really new to us but of course  we’re also nervous. I can drive the scooter alone but I cannot drive it when I have a back ride so Divine needed to train well so that we can proceed  hahaha  on the other hand Kristel wasn’t new to this so she easily manage to drive while Kass is  her back ride.

After couple of hours of practicing at the area we decided to give it a try at the highway. They said there’s no need to get scared because the motorists always gives way to the scooters since they know that it is usually tourist.  And the road there is also wide enough and there’s no traffic so it’s not hard to drive for beginners.

We bought rice first  on our way  so we can have our lunch on a spot that we can see on our way.  The ride was so refreshing since the area is full of trees and the views of the bay is visible. We stopped at the area where there’s a view of the sea and take our lunch.By the way for this lunch we brought our canned food and ate it with the rice we bought :) 

After that we found an instagrammable place  on the other side so we took some photos then we decided to come back at our hotel to get change cause we plan to go at the beach after we went to Longpan Park.

Then we headed to the Longpan park, the staff at the hotel was the one who recommended it to us since it’s one of the best tourist  attractions that they have. So we decided to check on it. The travel was quite long but it’s so refreshing and exciting as well. The place was really far  but it’s really worth it, the view was really awesome and breath taking.  

Then after that we headed to beach I forgot the name but it is quite smaller than the nanwan beach but they also have activities. We arrived at the beach at around 5:30 pm and the activities started to put away and clean their things. Actually it seems like we are the  only guests  who arrived that time so they offered us discounted price for the banana boat as their last customer. I really don’t want to join the activity but they insisted so that I can experience it, so I  joined and face my fears my only condition is that there will be no drop at the sea.  So we started the activity and it really feels scary at first but I enjoyed it and we are the only group having the activity at the beach so it feels like we own the place haha. 

Then they have a parking area in mid area of the sea, Our guide parked the boat so that they can go down and swim for a while. Then to get back at the shore they said we will be riding the jet ski for free, I was quite hesitant since I know that it will be fast , fortunately my grip was really tight that I didn’t fall off the ski. But when Kristel and kass was riding the ski their driver was quite  really fast , and kristel fall off the ski and her foot hit at the part of ski. We we’re so worried about what happened, fortunately the people there saw what happened and helped us and the driver was keep on apologizing to us.  Luckily it was not that serious and Kristel says its bearable. They provided us ice for her foot. We’re worried she can’t drive the scooter but she still manage to do it, then we went back to hotel. On our way we saw the villa where EXO stayed - Caesar Park Kenting.  It’s near the end of kenting night Market.

When we reached our hotel we opted to rest  first so that Kristel’s foot can rest as well. We planned to have a dinner at Smokey Joes – restaurant where Chanyeol and Chen ate their lunch on their adventure but the resto is already full so we just decided to eat there for lunch on the next day before we head to airport, so we reserved a slot at around 11 am. By the way the resto is just near the hotel we can go there just by walking.

Then we planned a mukbang for our last  dinner at Kenting and stinky tofu challenge. So we bought different dishes at the night market and rice as well then we eat it at our room  while sharing different stories and  while wearing matching pajamas.

We film our stinky tofu challenge for the vlog content of kass and for us also to experience the taste of it since we got curious.  

We also fix some of our luggage so that we can see if we still have enough space if we will buy some more pasalubong. We finished at around 2 am and planned to go at a supermarket before we check out for lunch.

LAST DAY AT KENTING

We planned on going out early so we have enough time to fix our things but we end up getting up at 8 am :)  so we just went out wearing our pajamas  to go at the nearest supermarket. When we ask the hotel reception they said that its quite far but it is the nearest supermarket we can go. Since we still have our scooter we opted to go. The morning ride was cool and amazing the views are amazing, these are the things I would miss when we go back to Manila.

As we reached the supermarket we just bought what we think can still fit on our budget and luggage. Then as we prepare to get back to the hotel it suddenly started to rain heavily and we are quite hesitant to go since the road will be slippery and the visibility is not that fine so we are worried as well for our time, we advise our hotel and the scooter rental that we might be running late because of the rain. We just waited until the rain slightly weakened so we can go. We came back at hotel at around 10 am ; we returned the scooters and get back to our hotel, fortunately we are not that soaking wet because of the rain.

We started to prepare and pack our things, luckily we are allowed to have a late check out. After that we left our things at the lobby to have our lunch at Smokey Joe’s before we go back to Kaohsiung airport.  

We wanted to order the exact foods that Chen and Chanyeol ordered but it quite pricey so we just ordered what we wanted.

After that we get back to the hotel since our service is already there, it cost us PHP 3,468.00 it is pre booked at kkday again. As much as we wanted to stay we need to go back to Manila, We surely want to go back at Kaoshiung and Kenting and visit all the places and try their activities.  

Our flight to Manila is around 6:25 pm and we got to the airport at around 4:00 pm. We still have enough time to roam around and eat  before we board. We arrived at Manila around  8:00 pm. 

It was one of the best travel that I experienced. We have done a lot of things that I didn’t expected to do and of course our fan girl hearts are really super happy. The bonding that we had was one of the memories I will forever cherish.

#kaoshiung #kenting #taiwan #2019 #exo #exo ladder #vacay #chill #goodvibes #diytrip #friends #fangirls

[sychellebanda]

EACH ONE. TEACH ONE. HOW TO PLANT ONE.

Since  I was a kid I really love planting. And planting activities is something that I always look forward. 

When me and my sister found out that there’s an activity near us. We planned to join despite of our busy work schedule we tried to participate with the activity, to at least  give back to our mother earth.

The Event was held at the Cabading Eco Park inside of Ai- tech Institute of Technology in Antipolo City. And was lead by the organization of Rotary Club of Philippines. Different groups also participated. We participated under the Ivolunteer PH.

It was a fun activity. Hope that my tree grows healthy.

We’re looking forward to more tree planting activity. :) 

#treeplanting #nature #antipolo #cabadingecopark

[sychellebanda]

AWESOME DAY TO WANDER AT THE SUMMER CAPITAL

We started our second day in Baguio by strolling at Teacher’s camp since it is just a walk away from our inn.

The Teachers’s camp is an events venue and teachers training center. There is no entrance fee to enter the place. And it is also best to go here during morning because the nature’s breeze will welcome you while you walk. The area is big that we haven’t tried to explore each and every part of it. 

There are also some food vendors like magtataho, which we have bought for 20.00 for each cup of strawberry flavored taho it is very tasty and it is enough as our breakfast for that morning.

And then we decided to go to the Bencab Museum, Since we don’t have idea how to commute to Bencab, we decided to take a taxi and it cost us around Php 200.00 ( as far as I remembered) from Teacher’s camp. It was quite a little long ride. But we haven’t encountered traffic so we still arrived early where people are not yet crowded.

Upon entering the museum they will assist you to the reception for the entrance fee payment and the museum guide. Entrance fee for adults is Php 120.00, For students and senior citizens with I.D is Php 100.00 and Phnp 80.00 respectively They also have some special rates for group tours. The museum is open from  9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

You can see this view on the veranda. The Museum Houses the National Artist Ben Cabrera’s art collection in a four-level building. It showcases the authentic old Baguio experience.

After the morning artsy stroll that we have. We decided to go back at the session road to take our lunch. We just rode a jeepney to go back.

Then after our quick lunch we headed to Burnham Park and  tried the activities there.

The boat ride will cost you around Php 150.00  per hour /Php 100.00 for 30 mins.  

One of the most popular areas in Burnham park is this man-made lake situated at the heart of this huge park. Enjoy the boat ride with your friends and family, just make sure to balance and keep rowing. Luckily our mom and cousin is an expert with this, because it might look easy but its hard tho. 

Next to the lagoon is the children playground where you can rent bicycles (single,double or with side car), scooters or go kart. Rental will cost you around Php 50.00 per hour.

We enjoyed riding bicycle again after couple of years we haven’t tried it. Fortunately we still know how to ride it. Just be careful with some of the kids always changing sides and some speed riders. :) 

Next Stop for our Baguio escapade is the Bell House inside Camp John Hay. We just rode a jeepney to reach the area. Then take a taxi since we are quite tired to walk to the top :) 

Bell House is named after General J Franklin Bell, it is used to be the official vacation residence of the Commanding General of the Philippines. While now it has been transformed into a museum that exemplifies American colonial architecture. If you will visit this alone, it is quite creepy tho. hahaha :) but definitely it’s awesome interior will amazed you.

The entrance fee cost Php 60.00 per head. including the amphitheater beside the bell house and the Cemetery of Negativism.

If you want some adrenaline rush dare to try the tree top adventure rides. The Superman Ride (zipline), Canopy Ride , and Tree Drop (harnessed free fall) are crowd favorites.Rates: Superman Ride: PhP 300, Canopy Ride: PhP350, Tree Drop, (P150) Combo Packages: Start at PhP400 per person. 

But then, there are too many people waiting that time so we decided not to try and just rest along with the trees.

Just by seating next to trees make me really feel so relaxed. Away from too many noise of the city, breathing some fresh air. no emails, no phone calls just enjoying the view while sharing some good stories with my fam.

Basically it’s our last day to stroll the City of Pines, we just have the next morning as our last schedule before heading back to Manila.

And since my sister is insisting to get back to the Mines View park to witness the sunrise. We decided to get up early in the morning and watch the sunrise for the last stop in our trip.

Our Baguio trip was a reminder to us that no matter how busy you are, you really need to give time to yourself so that you will not get burn out and that we must love our nature so that the next generation of people could still witness the beauty of it, like what we used to see and enjoy.

Wrapping up our adventure with the sweetest smiles in our face.

#sychventures #sistergoals #cityofpines #baguio #summercapital #discoverph #escapades #adventures #familybonding #bellhouse #burnhampark #campjohnhay #bencabmuseum

[sychellebanda]

THE COLD NEVER BOTHERED US ANYWAY~

Last January 2017 was one of the best weekend getaway i have spent with my family (excluding my father he doesn’t want to join us and bothered to leave our house empty, we have our cousin to join us instead).

I have been to Baguio for about 3 times ( this is my third time) but this is the best one, because the first time I have been here was for a school conference so my time to explore was limited and since I’m still a student, budget is also tight. The next was when we have a project, related to my job. So, we only have one day to wander around and it was fun but tiring tho. And now I made sure that for the third time that I am here, I could really enjoy all the attractions and the weather.

We depart from Manila at around 11 pm of Friday, via Victory Liner and we arrived at Baguio City at around 2 am. We already booked our room 2 days before so that we will not worry anymore. I’m lucky that the hotel where we checked in before for our project was also available for the time being. Since we already know them they allow us to have an early check in. We booked a room for the 4 of us, for only Php 3000.00 ( 3 days and 2 nights )- 1 double sized bed and extra mattress for my cousin. Staff at Sisko Inn were really accommodating and nice. Rooms are clean and complete with private bathroom with heater.

Sisko Inn is located at  Brentwood Village, Barangay M. Roxas, Baguio City.  They are right beside Brentwood Apartelle. The location is also accessible for the attractions, they are near Teachers Camp, Botanical Garden, White Mansion, The Mansion, Wright Park and Mines View Park. You may take a jeepney or walk if you want to stroll and feel the breeze of cold weather.

For our first day, we started with a breakfast ( but since it’s too early, restaurants are still closed and we end up having our breakfast at Jollibee :) ).Our First Destination was the Baguio Cathedral, since it was the nearest at the session road and it’s better to have the Lord’s guidance for our trip.

Then we went to Mines View Park and enjoy the view and some of the activities that they have and luckily people are not so crowded that time.

We take a picture with the cute and big German Shepherd for Php 100.00 (last time I've been here it was only for Php 50.00)

Then we just take a walk to reach the wright park and the mansion since its also near the vicinity. There are some vendors of fresh fruits at the wright park, we enjoyed the fresh hand picked strawberries for Php 160.00.

The Mansion is the official summer palace of the President of the Philippines. You can take a picture there, but you cannot go near it.

Then our next stop was the Botanical Garden, you can find different types of flowers and plants there. It is also known as Igorot Village.

By that moment it was already lunch time and since we are already starving we haven’t explored the Botanical Garden that much and eager to have our lunch. Near the garden we find this restaurant- Pine Country (Steaks and Waffles). The food taste okay but not so good for the price that they have. But at least we got full. Then we walk to our hotel to take some rest

After taking some rest we got up at around 4 pm and get ready to have our snack. Me and my sister went for a walk and find this korean store near our inn and we bought some noodles.

 After that we drop by at SM Baguio to find a restaurant for our dinner but we end up finding the 50′s diner at session road. The foods are good  and a lot of choices, they have combo meals too, and the price is affordable. The ambiance is that of 50's cafe in the western countries . We had a great dinner that time.

Then we went to the what they call “wagwagan”, but it’s still early by that time so we decided to went to victory liner’s terminal  to buy our tickets for our departure on Sunday, since we haven’t booked yet. Then we went back at the hotel. That sum’s up our first day.

#baguio #cityofpines #iloveph #sibgoals #sychventures #summercapital #2017 #weekendventures

[sychellebanda]

CONTINUING ILOCANDIA ADVENTURES

“Travelling is one way to meet new people”- here’s a bunch of groups that we have encountered during the Ilocos Tour, A group shot taken at  Patapat Viaduct.- Thanks for the nice tour coordinators who manage to take this shot and made the vehicles stop for a couple of minutes.

For the second day of our tour, we headed to Ilocos Norte. It was a long drive which gave us some time to take some sleep. But for me, I enjoy watching the beautiful views during trips like this and choose not to sleep.

First stop is the Marcos Museum at Batac, Ilocos Norte it is dedicated to former Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos. The entrance fee of the Museum is 50/head for the adults and 30.00 for seniors & students then for 10 y/o below is 10.00. You can find lots of memorabilia there and of course the body of Marcos which is preserved under 7 layers of surgical wax as they said. Cameras/phones are not allowed inside the Mausoleum.

Next stop is the beautiful church of Paoay, one of the oldest church in the Philippines.The façade was really picture-perfect. Just by looking at the church it will really make you wish that someday you will walk thru its aisle and say your “ I DO’s” with the one you love.

And for our third itinerary, we went to Culili Point Sand Dunes. I think this is one of the highlights of our tour. Riding a 4x4 thru an extreme trails with sand boarding  was really a lot of fun, but of course we felt tons of nervousness throughout the activity. Screaming at the top of our lungs for every high peaks that we need to cross. But we enjoyed a lot.

There is no entrance fee but each ride cost 2500.00 or you can just pay 500.00 per head for a group of 5. You also need to fill up a waiver form before you ride the 1 hour extreme adventure of 4 x 4. But don’t worry, cause the drivers there are well trained as they said.

After the extreme activity we headed to a mini restaurant to have our lunch- forgot the name of the place. But their food is affordable enough as I remember.

Then we headed to the  Cape Bojeador Lighthouse,  There’s a short uphill climb before you reach the steps of the lighthouse but you can take a tricycle if you don’t want to take a walk like what we do, but when we are going back to our van we just take a walk since we are going down, it’s not so tiring :)

Exploring the light house is free but we are not allowed to climb up to the Lighthouse tower. But the scenic view at the veranda part was already awesome, so i think its quite enough for us even though we didn’t reach the top most part.

For the next place, we went on Kapurpurawan Rock Formation, going there you can already have  a glimpse on the famous windmills of Ilocos and they have really lots of it there.

Going back to the rock formation, before reaching the  beautiful and unique art created by nature. you need to walk thru a path for a couple of minutes. But if you don’t want, you can hire some horse there and try horseback riding.

The rock formations was really awesome but we haven’t able to get to them as close as we want because the path thru it, was rocky and slippery, our shoes was not meant to cross those paths, I suggest that when you visit this place you must wear shoes that is same as the one you use for hiking/trekking.

They call it Kapurpurawan because the word “puraw” in Ilocano means white, obviously because of its color specially. We enjoyed taking pictures here and forgot about our time, we thought that the people with us there, was on the same tour as we have but unfortunately they are not, so we end up rushing and running to our van because they are waiting for us but not quite long. hehehe~ sometimes that’s the disadvantage of a tour, you have limited time to appreciate the places. But it’s fine tho.

Next on the list was the Bangui windmills. Ohhh I love this place so much. Because instead of sand they have pebbles, and i don’t really know but i love rocks/stones. so i end up getting some pebbles and take it home :). I think it’s one of the reasons why my bag was uhmmm heavy.

This is the last place that we have for the second day of the tour, and it was about 6 pm i guess, so we doesn’t have much time to take some pictures because of the lack of the natural light. We just enjoyed the beach, wind and the pebbles :) then we headed to our last night of accommodation.

Are 2nd day accommodation is at  Casa Victoria Beach Resort Brgy. Saud, Pagudpud. Our room was also nice and clean. The food was also good. And the view was very awesome. I think this is also one of the best experience that we had because our room is near the beach, we got the chance to enjoy the beauty of the sea early in the morning, while the others are still sleeping (i guess) we are already wandering at the beach. And it was really relaxing, it make us feel a little bit sad tho, cause we know its our last day and after this day we’ll be back to reality ~ work work work.

After taking our breakfast, the third day of the tour started. We went first to Bantay Abot cave, this interesting place is not really a cave as they said, but a rocky hill that resulted from an earthquake that happened so many years ago. Bantay Abot Caves means “a mountain with a hole.”

To reach the “hole” part  you have to get down from the main road to get close to the spot. The path was quite rocky and slippery cause the waves can get as close as to the sides of the path thru the cave. But it’s worthy, the place was really breathtaking.

For the second to the last itinerary, we went to a beach near Hannah’s beach resort. We have some time to swim and play before going back to Ilocos Sur.

Me and my sister didn’t try to swim because the waves are quite strong and we really don’t know how to swim ~ hahaha. we just enjoy playing with the sand and walking at the shore.

After our lunch, we headed to the last itinerary for Ilocos Norte, The Malacañang of the North or Malacañang ti Amianan in Ilocano it is only one of the 29 summer residences built by Former Philippine President Fernando Marcos.

It overlooks the scenic blue waters of Paoay Lake. They have  lots of rooms and memorabilia of the family of Marcos can also be seen there. Also the Office used by Pres. Marcos was also there.

Malacañang of the North is now managed  by the Department of Tourism, entrance fees are 20 pesos and 10 pesos for adults and children respectively.

After the journey of the North, we headed back to Vigan to have our final tour and buy some pasalubong. We depart at around 5pm to go back to Manila and I guess we were home at around 3 am. And tadaaaa! I have a couple of hours to sleep and rest because I will be preparing for my early work schedule again. ~

Super plenty of places to go, Many scenic views to appreciate but we have too little time to explore the beauty of Ilocos. 3D and 2N was really not enough, Hoping to get back to this awesome places again.

Ilocos really captures my heart. I will surely go back here.

#ilocossur #adventure #windmill #beach #explore #itravelphilippines #discoverphilippines #chooseph #travel #sibgoals #sanddunes #paoay #vigan #ilocosnorte

[sychellebanda]

SPENDING WEEKENDS AT ILOCANDIA

After several times of rescheduling our trips, we are finally down to our trip to Ilocos. It is not new to us to be part of a group as a joiner traveler. And so we came into this package tour with Itravel Philippines for 3D 2N with jampacked of activities and also with nice accommodations and food.

Let’s start our awesome ILOCOS Adventures!

Our assembly time was 2 am; Oct 7, 2016 at ortigas and depart at around 3am. Our first stop is a breakfast at La Union (not quite sure with the location), then we headed first at Ilocos Sur and drop by a scenic view on the way.  Here’s a beautiful morning view for us to take  some pictures.

Then we headed to the Bantay Bridge (the old Banaoang Bridge and Quirino Bridge) The two bridges are 350 meters apart,the old truss type Banaoang Bridge was damaged last 2011 and a new bridge was built to replace it and was named Quirino Bridge. Then the old bridge was reconstructed and became also passable but not as the main bridge, it also become as one of the tourist attraction before heading to Vigan and was an iconic symbol of Ilocos Sur.

And yeah! it feels like we owned the bridge!!

Next in our itinerary is the Bell tower and Bantay Church,  it is about 15 minutes Kalesa ride from the Calle Crisologo of Vigan City. The Bantay Church is also known as the St. Augustine Parish Church. And it is considered as one of the oldest churches in the Province of Ilocos Sur.

Before taking our Lunch we headed to Baluarte Vigan City’s Zoo. The time we went there was quite hot and we don’t feel like roaming around even though the place was beautiful and fun to explore. we just got to the nearest spot and stay there and we are also hungry that time :). Maybe I’ll go back here when I went back to Vigan again.

Also i just want to share that ohhh  I saw a camel!!! and dinosaurs even if it’s not real, it’s awesome cause it feels like real!

And then we headed to our lunch in Hidden Garden. Me and my sister are not so foodie and so we ended up just ordering bagnet sisig and fresh buko juice. And the verdict? well yeah its yummy!

After our lunch, we headed to two more stops before checking in to our hotel. We went to Vigan pottery (RG Pottery Factory), where you can experience making some pots.

Then another place is the Crisologo Museum,  it has memorabilia for the late Congressman Floro S. Crisologo. The antique car there was said to be the car used by  Carmeling Crisologo when she was ambushed but survived on May 10, 1961 at Bacsil, San Juan, Ilocos Sur. And there are more interesting stories and details you can check in this museum.

After the long and tiring, but fun day, we sure need some rest before strolling at the famous Kalye Crisologo. Our tour coordinator accompanied us to our hotel - Mojica Residencia Hotel.

Their place was nice and quiet. Our room was also nice and just right for us to take some rest. Their location was also the best because they are just one street away from Kalye Crisologo.

At around 5pm we started to stroll around the Kalye Crisologo, and tried riding a Kalesa for 150.00, Manong gave us a tour around Vigan and it was fun. And we have observed that they gave much respect to the kalesa drivers there and it was good to know.

Then we bought some Vigan Empanada from one of the famous store there -Irene’s Empanada recommended by my boss which is also from Ilocos, And some Vigan longganisa for our dinner. Then we visited the Vigan Church and the Famous Plaza where they have show, but that time they don’t have a schedule for the fountain show, so we are not able see it tho. There are also lots of souvenir shops there and restaurants/fast food chains in vintage look. I wasn’t able to take some pictures cause there are really lots of tourist wandering around. :) We just appreciated the views.

That sums up our first day at Ilocos Sur. We surely will have more bunch of activities for the second day which will be heading to Ilocos Norte. :)

I’ll be making the next part of this ILOCANDIA Adventures :)

#sibgoals #ilocandia #iloveilocos #vigan #ilocossur #kalyecrisologo #chooseph #discoverph #norte

[sychellebanda]

#WORKLIFEBALANCE

~ ADRUSH CREATIVE MEDIA goes to Laiya Batangas

After  busy working days, weeks and months, finally! we found some time to relax and have a time to bond with each other. Spending our weekends in a calm and beautiful resort like Palm Beach Resort is really mind refreshing.

Though we stayed there for quite a short time, we had fun and we enjoyed their food so much and the staff are all nice and accommodating.

Rooms are nice and have awesome views. You can also use the cottages at the beach front whenever you wanted to. Wifi here are also the best, it’s a lot faster than our internet at home.

One of the best part of the resort is their infinity pool with jacuzzi. I had a lot of fun there, even though I don’t know how to swim, at least I enjoyed taking awesome pictures of the view.

Another memorable activity we had there is the banana boat ride (but for now its a pencil boat). well as I said I don’t know how to swim, so when we had the “drop” at the sea “BOOM” I started to panic, fortunately they save me first back to the boat. (hahaha :)

They also have some team building activities. I just tried some of the activities.

It might be easy when you look at but , It’s hard!

Use of Aqua Shoes are also free when you want to stroll at the shore.

The shore is quite a bit rocky at some part and this would serve as a protective gear when you have your water activities.

Here’s our morning wearing our sweetest  smile for a fun filled weekend getaway. 

Hope to get back here again for another stay cation with my family.

Thanks Palm Beach Resort for making our stay worth it!

#palmbeachresort #beach #midsummertrip #adrush #teamgoals #discoverph #laiyabatangas #iloveph #chooseph

[sychellebanda]

ARTSY WEEKEND IN ART IN ISLAND

It’s an awesome weekend exploring  an Interactive 3D Art Museum here at Philippines.

I had so much fun with my sister during our stay there. we went there at around 4pm last saturday, that is why the people are not much crowded and picture taking is a lot easier because you don’t need to wait much.

There are about 180+ 3D paintings on 2 floors. You would need at least 2 hours to explore all of them.

One of the challenging part here is doing some creative poses and getting the right angle when taking the pictures. though they have the point of picture tags at the floor, sometimes still turning the right angle would get the best shot that you would want to achieve.

This is one of our best shot, why? me and my sister are the only one in that area as of that moment, and no one could help us take the picture, so what my sister did, she put the selfie stick on her bag and let it stand and put on the timer for 10 seconds, and tadaaaa, we made our shot.

One of my favorite shots, being part of a nice painting. Thanks to the help of art in island staff.

Yipeeee! I love this artwork, it really made me feel like I’m gonna fly.

My first time to look so tall.hahaha :) we used again our bag and timer for this.

well, it might not look good but i used photoshop here, just for the sake of “we have another picture together”, so i guess next time that we get back here we’ll make sure to have more with us for more creative shots.

selfie at the middle of the museum, no one could stop us. lols.

This must be a mirror room, but again since we are just two we didn’t make it, but we used the trick of panorama, and i think it's quite good.

Shoes aren't allowed to avoid damage to the artworks on the floor. you should wear socks or even barefoot at all, but they do have foot socks that you could buy there.

They do also have Christmas themed 3D paintings.

Feels like you travel around a lot of places, just by taking pictures in this museum, very overwhelming. I can say that the entrance fee is very worth it.

There are also cute paintings of animals.

You could find Art in Island at  175 15th Avenue, Barangay Socorro, Cubao, Quezon City, Metro Manila, Philippines. There’s actually an entrance at Cubao Expo to Art in Island.

9:30 AM to 9:30 PM. Daily.

Entrance fee is 500 for adults and 400 for students. (NOTE: please bring school ID to get the student rate) Children below 3ft. are free.

Great stress reliever and time to feed your creative mind and heart.

#artinisland #sibgoals #discoverph #artsyfartsy #ilovearts

[sychellebanda]

KAMAY NI HESUS

During our trip to Lucban Quezon for Pahiyas Festival, we had a morning side trip to Kamay ni Hesus. Wherein you need to climb at the Via Dolorosa Grotto up to its peak to see the statue of Christ. They said that there are over 300 steps before you can reach the top.

Kamay ni Hesus became a popular pilgrimage site for those who wants to to repent, give thanks and pray for healing.

Other than that, the pilgrimage has some spots that you may enjoy. Like the Noah’s Ark where you can feed koi fishes (20.00 for the feeds). And the Garden of Eden where you can relax reflect with the beauty of nature and their park.

You can also attend mass at the church and buy some religious souvenir at their shop.

After reaching the peak, we take a rest and pray. Though there are lots of people that time so you really can feel the tiredness. 

But nonetheless the view is awesome and the fulfillment that I had climbed the 300 plus stairs really makes me feel happy.

 A Great morning experience for us!

#kamaynihesus #lucban #quezon #sibgoals #morningrush #2016 #iloveph #chooseph #discoverph

[sychellebanda]

PINASAYA-PAHIYAS FESTIVAL

Philippines’ Festivals are really awesome.Last May 15, 2016, we went to Lucban Quezon to experience their pahiyas festival. One of the most colorful harvest festival to honor San Isidro Labrador, the patron saint of farmers.

It is called as  “Pahiyas”, because the festival is deeply rooted in the traditional celebration of the townsfolk in thanksgiving for bounty harvest.

The experience was fun, where you can see lots of houses decorated with different vegetables and other stuff.

Each houses has different themes and awesome displays.

This one is full of “palay”, and it was amazing how they do it.

Some are full of vegetables

Some have scarecrow or “palatakot” and many more.

The experience was new to me. since in our place, i don’t usually experience this kind of festival and i seldom visit our province to see such.

At least now i know the feeling of a real festival. and now I am really looking forward to experience other Philippines festivals.

#pahiyas2016 #lucban #philippinfiesta #sibgoals #iloveph #discoverph

[sychellebanda]

HAPPINESS UNDER THE SUN

Last balloon fest at Lubao we had a side trip at Sandbox at Alviera Porac Pampanga. 

It was a huge area for fun activities with extreme adventures. They have several attractions to choose from, whether you want to go extreme and test if you could conquer your fear of heights or just try their other activities that doesn’t require much courage.

Since me and my sister don’t have yet much of courage to try the extreme activities and because the time we get there was really hot and for us it’s not much bearable, we chose to have the Oculus Archery where in they would teach you the basics about archery for 30 minutes.

The Activity was really fun and we do learn a lot, from using the bow and arrow the right way, to releasing the arrow to its proper way. My sister even got the bull’s eye for about three times. While me? uhmmm at least i popped my balloon before the time runs out. :)

It’s fun at sandbox, I think I’d go back there some other time and earlier when the weather is not to hot and much bearable to have those activities.

Try visiting the Sandbox and get ready to scream and shout!

Anyways, for inquiries about SANDBOX:

Address: Alviera, Porac Municipality Pampanga Operating Hours: Tuesday-Sunday 9am-5pm Tel. Nos.: 0936-988-6023 / 0917-803-3099 / [phone]

#sandbox #sibgoals #Alviera #poracpampanga #iloveph #summer2016

[sychellebanda]

CLARK PAMPANGA PIHABF  2016 x LUBAO PAMPANGA IBF 2016

Closer encounter with these big balloons on both balloons fest this year.

Hope we can take a ride on hot air balloons next time.

To see a Hot Air Balloon was one of our bucket list, and for the year of 2016, we make sure that we could see them. Me and my sister went to both balloon fest of the year- Clark and Lubao Pampanga Balloon Fest. For the Clark, we just had our DIY trip and made to the location at around 1:00 pm so we haven’t witnessed the morning flight. But we still enjoyed other activities and the Night Glow. Then for the Lubao fest we made sure that we could see the morning flight so we booked a package tour from Astrokidd. At around 4 am we are already at the venue and ready to be amazed.

Entering the balloon’s flight area requires entrance fee of 250.00 and the slots are limited only. So if you are early then you’ll get a chance to be at that area.

You can also ride a tethered balloon for 250.00 also. but slots are also limited. We were not able to ride this because slots are already full.

Jollibee was also there, we can’t help but take a selfie with him.

Our experience at the Clark Balloon Fest was also different even though we haven’t witnessed the morning flight, we enjoyed taking pictures with different aircraft and watching shows from different flying school.

We waited quite a lot for the night glow, but waiting is worth it. The show started around 6 pm and there is a concert after the balloons are done inflating.

Both of the experience was amazing, and the most awesome part? the event is not that crowded. We still got best spots to watch.

I’ll get back here for sure, but when that time comes I’ll gonna take a ride with the balloons.

Super Duper Great Experience!

#sibgoals #PIHAB2016 #LubaoIBF2016 #hotairballoon #balloonfestph #balloonfestival #chooseph #discoverph #iloveph #pampanga #clarkpampanga #lubaopampanga

[sychellebanda]

LATE HOLY WEEK TRIP: MARIAN ORCHARD

Going to a solemn place like this was really mind refreshing, away from thousands of  people and away from the noise of the city.

The place is quite far from the city proper but we manage to reach our destination, even if we are quite lost.

Marian Orchard is a Catholic-themed park built on a 5-hectare land.  This place is located at Barangay Malabanan Balete, Batangas near and adjacent of Lipa City.

The place is surrounded by lots of flowers, trees and shrines of various saints. It also features a chapel, prayer garden, observation tower, fountain the garden steps and the station of the cross, good for holy week’s reflection

or just simply relax and feel the presence of blessedness while enjoying the beauty of the nature, this may be a place for you to go.

But don’t forget that Marian Orchard is also a sacred place, so still observe silence and respect the other guests.

How to get there:

By commute:

Take a Bus (JAM liner) bound to Lipa Batangas, and drop-off to Bus Stop (SM Lipa), then ride a jeepney going to Tanauan and inform the driver to drop you off at Levitown, the landmark is Caltex Gas Station at the left side, from there ride again a tricycle to Balete Batangas (Marian Orchard) the fare is about 100.00, The entrance fee is: 50.00.

Feel free to go and relax in Marian Orchard and appreciate the beauty of its view!

#marianorchard #adventures #sibgoals #batangas #lipabatangas #holyweek #pilgrimage #nature #saints #chooseph #discoverph #philippines #sychventures

[sychellebanda]

WORK LIFE  x  TRAVEL LIFE

I was so excited to go out of town again after several months of being an official working girl. The trip was quite short but fun and it was related to our work tho.

It was January when we went there for  a project for our client. And we took the opportunity to have some fun and relax. Stay away from stress and make our day memorable.

Baguio was still one of the best place for me. The weather is cold, the food is good and the places were awesome.

We stayed at Sisko Inn located at the Brent wood Village. Their rooms are neat and nice, and the location is accessible. The rates are also affordable.

We have a day to go around Baguio and enjoy the cold weather. It’s not our first time there because we’ve been there when we had our Ad Congress back when we are in college, just different year, cause they are ahead of me.

We enjoyed each other’s company and made this moment a way to get close with each other more. 

More than being employees at a company we treat each other as sisters, and that’s what i love most with this two. I feel like I have made two “ate” rather than a workmate.

January and February was one of the best months to go in Baguio, it was pretty cold and feels like Korea, specially at night.

The people are not so crowded (except for the week of Panagbenga Festival) We enjoyed wandering around even if its afternoon, we just take a walk to the tourist spots there and sometimes ride a taxi. 

And so  after the 1 day “gala”, we need to head back again to reality, and say hello  to Manila :3

We take one of the earliest trip at Victory Liner Terminal and got to Manila by 10:00  A. M. Pretty fast and not so hassle.

Hopefully we can still have more bonding moments in different places.

#baguio #cityofpines #squadgoals

[sychellebanda]

BLOOMS EVERYWHERE. PACIFIC BLOOMS.

A classy and beautiful (house) place where flowers are the main attraction. 

The place is full of showcase of every type of flowers they can offer, from the arrangement to the colors and varieties. It was really an awesome place.

The house has two floors where you can enjoy every type of flowers that you can see, the displays at the second floor are mostly their silk collections. Wherein you can use to decorate your rooms and other areas of your house. 

Every part of the house has also different themes, sometimes it depends on the season.

The house is also decorated with lots of vintage dolls and I found it awesome and cute.

The vibes was really calm and relaxing. You can enjoy taking photos and appreciate everything that you can see there.

They are also now offering their place as an events venue, where you could celebrate special events like parties or even a private simple dinner.

PACIFIC BLOOMS is located at no. 19 examiner st. West Triangle Quezon City.  Visit their  house to experience the perfect bloom.

#pacificblooms #roses #blooms #flowers #eventsplace

[sychellebanda]

GO EXPLORE.ADVENTURE IS OUT THERE.

Another awesome weekend with my sis. It’s been a long time again after those busy weeks. 

It’s time to enjoy, relax, and time for another weekend adventure.

We went to PACEM ECO PARK at  Assumption Antipolo, they established it to raise concern for the environment among students, teachers and staff, parents, guests/tourist  and visitors to the school, by providing them with an experience of the true beauty of nature.

It was an amazing experience again, breathing some fresh air, walking thru the paths you don’t usually go with, and a closer encounter with some of the unusual animals.

The best part of the park for me was the tree house. The feeling up there was really amazing and the view was priceless and fascinating.

We stayed at the PACEM Eco Park for about 2 hours I guess, but it feels like we’ve been there for a day. The place was really calm and peaceful, a great place for unwinding and reflecting. And when you go there make sure that you have accompany, cause the park is really big you might get scared specially if the park has no expected visitors, you might end up walking in the forest alone (but you can request for a tour guide to be with you).

The shell collections and butterfly museum was also one of the memorable features of the PACEM. You’ll give them a two thumbs up for having that kind of showcase there.

Here are the following PACEM ECO-PARK features: • An Eco Center-  • A Wildlife Sanctuary -  • A Butterfly Garden -  • A Butterfly Collection (cameras are not allowed to protect the preserved butterflies) -  • A shell Collection -  • A mini-Forest  -  • An Aviary  -  • An Eco-Shoppe  -  • A Snack Center -  • A Herbal Garden -  • An organic Farm -  • A Green House 

Pacem Park Open for visits as follows: From Monday to Friday, from 8.00 am to 3.30 pm On Saturdays from 8.30 am to 12 nn (Entrance fee : Php 85.00)

For inquiries pls write or call: PACEM Center for Peace and Ecology Assumption Antipolo Sumulong Highway, Antipolo City Tel. [phone] or 697-2354

To travel is to experience another adventure. Go on and explore places.You don’t need much money to enjoy and have fun. Just give it a try.

#adventure #pacemecopark #antipolo #discoverph #nature #sibgoals #animals