Zest Air: Inaugural Flights to KL, Kota Kinabalu and Bacolod

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...you've probably been noticing a lot of uploaded photos taken in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. On this post, you'll find out where it all started. So read on...

As you know, I just came back from my one month trip in the Visayas where I mostly stayed in Oslob and visited the neighboring islands of Dumaguete, Siquijor and Camotes. I got home last May 1 and I told myself that I'll just stay home the rest of the month to rest, focus on work and take care of my blogs. Well, well, well... I haven't even unpacked yet when I got an invitation from Zest Air, AirAsia and Fleishman Hillard Manila (c/o Ferdie Bondoy) to join the familiarization tour of Kuala Lumpur. I've already been there before but only for a very short visit. I'd love to go back to  Kuala Lumpur again and check out the other beautiful tourist sites KL has to offer so of course I said my sweet YES!

check-in at NAIA 4

I was to be a part of Zest Air's maiden flight to Kuala Lumpur. On the same day of the flight, May 10, 2013, Zest Air also launched its maiden flights to Kota Kinabalu and Bacolod. In fact, one-peso promo fares from Manila to Kuala Lumpur, Kota Kinabalu, Shanghai, Cebu, Davao, Puerto Princesa, Kalibo (Boracay), Iloilo, Tacloban, Bacolod, Davao, Cebu and CDO were up fro grabs until yesterday (May 12). You can visit www.flyzest.com and www.airasia.com to see their current promos. 

Anyway, the reason for Zest Air to launch new flights to Kuala Lumpur, Kota Kinabalu and Bacolod is that it is expanding its wings in the region. 

So, together with other travel bloggers and one actor who I loved as a kid (Chuckie Dreyfus), I was on board Flight Z2948 which left Manila at 6:45 AM last Friday, May 10, 2013 and arrived in Kuala Lumpur's LCCT (Low Cost Carrier Terminal) at 10:25 AM. 

Team Kulit... este Team Kuala!  LOL!

Batu Caves, Kuala Lumpur Tour

So many things to do, so little time... I know this is my constant rant here on my blog. But looking at the brighter side of things, I still consider myself lucky. I work from home (basically from any place where there's internet wi-fi) which means I can travel on a whim or at a moment's notice. In fact, this weekend (just when I thought that I'd just be staying home this month to take a break from all that continuous traveling I did since October last year), I am going to visit Kuala Lumpur and Kota Kinabalu again. Actually, I'm leaving tomorrow and I need to be at the airport by 4am!!! Ack! I really need to pack!

I may be stressed coz of too much work I need to finish but I am excited nonetheless! It's been a looong time since I've been with my blogger friends and I'm really looking forward to spending time with them (for those of you who don't know this about me, I am an introvert, a loner, a solo traveler .. although lately I've been traveling a lot with my bessy Hanz and before that with my baboo Peter). 

Anyway, moving forward, the last time I went to Kuala Lumpur, I was with my girl best friend Jayme. It was part of our Singapore - Vietnam - Malaysia trip. And yep, I've been so busy, Kuala Lumpur is one of those trips I did that I haven't even blogged about yet. And now, here I am about to visit that beautiful place again. So before I get a decade late on my post (LOL!), I just wanna share with you what Jayme and I did the last time we were in Kuala Lumpur. We stayed for only 2 nights before our trip back to Clark, Pampanga. It was a short stay but we enjoyed it nonetheless. Now, I can't wait to go back to visit its other amazing sites!  Here's one of the places we visited. More to come...

Gentleman by Psy (Sexynomad Version)

I just found out through my FaceBook friends that there's a new dance craze in town and it's once again by Psy, the Korean guy who popularized Gangnam Style. He has a new dance single and in just a matter of a few hours after its release, has already garnered a billion views on YouTube. So I looked it up and yeah, the music was fun and funny and I couldn't help dancing to its tune. However, I couldn't figure out some of the other dance steps so I created my own version the first time I did it. (And yep, taking videos of myself is one of the things I do when I'm not traveling and staying at home.) Enjoy my Gentleman dance video!

My Hong Kong Disneyland 2013 Adventure

Like I said in my previous Hong Kong Disney Hollywood post, the last time I was here at Hong Kong Disneyland was in November 2007… almost 6 years ago. I’ve always wanted to go back and now that I finally did, this time with my mom, I couldn’t contain my excitement, especially since they have two (2) new attractions ---  ToyStory Land and Grizzly Gulch which I will discuss in detail here. But before that, I want to share with you my experience in chronological order. We’ll get to the exciting parts later.

So it was around 2:30 pm when we finished our scrumptious lunch at Crystal Lotus in Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel. We took the complimentary shuttle bus service from Disneyland Hotel to the Disneyland Theme Park and before 3:00 pm, my mom and I were already taking pictures at the entrance and at the Main Street USA (which we also did the next day).

Main Street USA

 

Where To Sunbathe In Majorca To Achieve The Perfect Tan

Millions of people visit Majorca every year, and if you’re planning to take a trip to this spectacular island, then you’ll certainly want to know where the best places to stay are. Majorca has always had a great reputation for sea, sand, sun and surf, and according to its ever increasing tourism numbers, it does a good job at living up to expectations.

As long as you know what you want to get out of a holiday to Majorca, you’ll have the best time ever, whether you’re travelling with your family, friends, or on your own. There are so many things to do in Majorca, you’ll find it hard to fit everything in! Let’s take a look at some of the best resorts to stay, and some of the best places to get that perfect tan, ensuring you have a holiday of a lifetime.  

Our Hong Kong Disney Hollywood Hotel Stay

It’s been six years since the first time I’ve been to Hong Kong to explore Disneyland and its hotels. I was with my husband, Peter, then. We had plans of going back but it never pushed through because of his very hectic work schedule. My mom, on the other hand, has been bugging me to go back and to take her with me since she’s never been to Hong Kong Disneyland. So this time around, with my cameras and a few pieces of clothing in tow, I brought her with me. And it’s been one of the best times of her life. Okay, mine too I must admit.

It was both our first time to ride Cathay Pacific. Unlike the usual local airline I ride, this one is big and a little more spacious even if we were in the economy section. The ride took about 2 hours. We had no problem whatsoever; the food served was good and after a short nap, we were already landing in Hong Kong International Airport. Weeee! We were both so excited!

On board Cathay Pacific on the way to Hong Kong

My mom and I arrived at the airport at around 8:30 am on March 14, 2013. After getting our luggage, we walked outside and looked for a cab that can get us to Disneyland Park.

How to Get from Oslob to Dumaguete and Back (Oslob Diaries Day 1)

April Fool's Day has been a busy one for me that I didn't even celebrate it by pulling a prank on someone, tsk, tsk. I haven't had any sleep since the day before because I had to pack and take a 4:20 am Cebu Pac flight to Mactan, Cebu. 

After breakfast early yesterday morning, I then took a cab to South Bus terminal (metered fare reached Php215 + Php10.00 bus terminal fee) then I took a bus headed for Oslob (Php140). Bpoth Sunrays and Ceres have buses going to Oslob. You can ride those with signs Oslob or Bato or Liloan.

Oslob Cebu One Month Vacay... My Proposed Schedule

 The view outside my room/office in Bessy's house taken earlier this month. This will also be my view the rest of the month of April. Weee! 

This one month vacation of mine in Oslob in Southern Cebu and its neighboring islands (Siquijor, Bohol, Camotes and Dumaguete) is one that I've been looking forward to since I booked my Cebu Pacific flights last January. I not only hope to spend time with my bessy Hanz (don't worry bessy, you'll only see me in between work, after work and once you're done for the day with your thesis), but I also hope to accomplish things which I fail to do when I'm at home because of so many distractions (like DVD, cable TV, wifely duties and house chores). So this April, I plan to be more productive with my time and be a lot healthier and fit. After all, it's still my time away from home and my hubby so I might as well make the most of it by following this schedule:

Harold's Mansion and Grand Pension Plaza Hotel in Dumaguete City

My trip to Dumaguete always involves proper budgeting since there are so many things to do there and so many food places to try that if I'm not careful with my money, I could lose track of my expenditures and end up with a huge hole in my pocket. So one of the first things I look for when going to Dumaguete is a budget-friendly place to stay, a cheap hotel or an affordable hostel or pension house. I found some while doing my research (although what happens lately is that I just ask the people at the airport of my destination where to stay. Tricycle drivers are excellent sources of information) and so far, I have stayed in two of them: Harold's Mansion (in 2010) and Grand Pension Plaza Hotel (last March 3-9, 2013).

By the way, I took a tricycle to my hotel from the airport and it cost me Php100.00. But if you get a tricycle from the city going to the airport, it would only cost Php80.00. The ride is just 15 minutes one way with moderate traffic.

Harold's Mansion 

The first time I went to Dumaguete, I was with my husband, Peter. That was in 2010 and we stayed at Harold's Mansion. We rented a Double room with AC, cable TV, hot and cold shower, wi-fi in the room and it only cost us Php600.00/night. But now, they already increased their price to Php800/night to remain competitive in the booming tourist market of Dumaguete City.  

Although the place is not as new anymore (according to the tricycle driver I spoke with at the Dumaguete airport when I asked for suggestions of other places to stay at in Dumaguete earlier this month), it's still one of the reasonably priced hotels in Dumaguete City.

Harold's Mansion has 38 rooms including dormitory types for large groups of tourists or those who really want to save their money for other things by paying only Php250.00n per bunk bed per night.  

My Barenaked Body Sugaring Experience

with my gf Irene

As much as I love going to the beach and wearing skimpy two-piece bikinis, I've never had a Brazilian in my entire life to compliment my favorite summer wear. Some of my girlfriends who have tried it encouraged me to have some waxing done before but I'd always resort to just trimming my hair down there or just shaving it a little. I can't bear the thought of undergoing through so much pain just for vanity's sake. After all, as the old cliche goes, no pain no gain. Plus, my husband prefers me to look like a real woman than a little girl in that department, if you know what I mean. Hehehe.

Then one afternoon, I went to visit one of my best girlfriends in Katipunan. Irene urged me to try the services of Barenaked. I was just supposed to have my legs and arms sugared in preparation for my honeymoon trip to El Nido, Palawan. 

The Ruins in Bacolod and How to Get There

Bacolod has always been one of those places in the Philippines that I fell in love with the first time my hubby and I visited it back in 2011 which is why I couldn't help but write about its many beautiful sites here on my blog. And since today is the first day of summer (Can you feel the heat? I do! And I'm loving it.), I thought of finally continuing my pending blog posts and hopefully be able to stick to writing about my travels on a more regular basis  in between work, traveling and social networking (crossing my fingers).

One of the things you can do here aside from trying Bacolod's many culinary delights, visiting its quaint ancestral houses (Balay Negrense, Pink House) and taking a refreshing trip to Mambukal Falls is to visit the very majestic and picturesque Lacson Ruins or what is most popularly known as The Ruins. 

Must-See Sights to Visit in Chicago

Chicago is the third largest city in the United States and home to a whole host of exciting things to see and do. Taste Michelin-starred food, witness beautiful architecture, shop until you drop and experience a breath-taking skyline, fascinating culture and miles and miles of beautiful, sandy beaches.

A Bird's Eye View

Look down on the colourful, bustling city from the sky deck of the Willis Tower, the 3rd tallest tower in the world (formerly known as Sears Tower). Travel up to the 103rd floor for the interactive exhibits or, if you're feeling brave, walk out onto The Ledge, a glass balcony situated 1,353 feet off the ground.

Culture Vultures

Alternatively, visit Grant Park for a wealth of amazing spectacles. This park boasts Millennium Park where there is a state-of-the-art collection of architecture including British artist Anish Kapoor's Cloud Gate sculpture, a series of highly polished steel plates that cleverly reflect Chicago's impressive skyline and the clouds above.

Famous Sights of Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a great destination for a city break, with easy access by plane, train and ferry. It is renowned for its cultural heritage, including great works of art and historic architecture. If you're planning a trip to the city, here are the top five sights.

Canal Ring

This network of canals was constructed in the 17th century and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are over 100km of canals in the city, which has earned it the title 'Venice of the North'. It was originally developed to attract wealthy homeowners and is still home to some exclusive neighbourhoods. The canals surround the old city centre and it's a beautiful area to walk around or try one of the many tourist boat trips. However you choose to explore this part of Amsterdam, you'll be surprised at the peacefulness and tranquillity.

Anne Frank's House

Probably the most famous historic resident of Amsterdam, Anne Frank and her family hid from the Nazis in this house during World War 2. Taking a look inside the property allows you to truly experience how small the area was in which they lived with another family for over two years. The museum also features an exhibition highlighting the struggles of Jewish people in the country during the war.

Where Will Your Summer Break Take You?

Spring is in the air, the sunshine is making an appearance and summer is on its way. It's times like these when many of us start thinking about summer getaways, planning where we want to travel and surfing the web for great deals on holidays online. If that sounds like you, where will your summer break take you?

If you've got family holidays in mind, you're undoubtedly one of the most privileged groups of holidaymakers of the lot. Why? Because family holidays are big business - and tour operators are falling over themselves to offer the best range of family holidays with the most exciting destinations and at the best prices. No longer are you limited to Spain or Turkey. You could be heading off to sunny Sidari in Corfu, Hersonissos in Rhodes or cheerful Silema in Malta. Perhaps Albufeira in the Algarve catches your eye, or lively Alcudia in Majorca. Head for a family resort like this and you'll find a long list of family-friendly attractions and activities, from great beaches and child-friendly restaurants to watersports and theme parks.

My Umagang Kay Ganda Interview: Marriage w/o Kids

I was able to watch my interview for the segment "Sabi ni Mister, Sabi ni Misis" in Umagang Kay Ganda this morning on ABS-CBN. The topic is about whether having kids is a prerequisite to having a happy marriage or not. Being a part of a small percentage of people who agree that kids are not that important in having a happily married life, I tackled a few important things during the short interview itself but unfortunately were edited out in the final airing. From what I recall, I remember also saying these two things:

- Since the start of our courtship period, I've already expressed my desire to not have kids to my then suitor, Peter. I didn't want there to be any regrets for him should he indeed choose me to be his wife.

- That should the opportunity come for me and my husband, Peter, to get pregnant now, we are more open to the idea since we're more financially secure and we are more confident that we can provide a good future for our child.

Anyway, here's the part of the segment I recorded. I hope I made sense. Thanks for watching! :)