Enjoying Beautiful Tokyo

This is the first time we have visited Japan and we are so pleased to be in Tokyo right now to enjoy the sights, culture, food and the people's hospitality.

We have only been to Tokyo Disneyland and around Shinjuku, Harajuku and Omotesando areas. It's a bit tiring though to walk up and down the stairs in the train station to catch another train in a different line. We've already maxed out our energy reserves so did not manage to go to the Meiji Shrine and Shinjuku Gyoen National park which is close by to where we are staying.

We still have few days to go to explore and hopefully, we can manage to fit in time to visit more places. Today, we are off to Studio Ghibli and we're excited!

All Set And Ready To Go

Everything is set. The hotels have been booked. The car rental is confirmed including our special request for bike rack for suvs. We are just waiting to get in the flight. My daughter and I are here in Dubai and my husband and mom-in-law are still in Manila, waiting for a chance to get seats so they can connect to the New York flight here.

Our logistics and coordination in this trip was almost perfect if it wasn't for travelers chancing their minds and traveling on the dates we have already planned few months ago. The seat availability looked very promising few days ago but now it is crazy!

I am thinking positive and praying for miracles that my husband and mom-in-law will be able to get in the next flight to Dubai so they can follow right away. My daughter and I will take our chance in the Dubai-New York flight tomorrow at 02:55 a.m.  I just hope we get in so at least my husband and mom-in-law will have greater chances of getting in the succeeding flights due to lesser competition.

I am really thinking positive and praying that all goes well.

This Blogger Is On Blog Leave

Every blogger needs a break from the blog scene and I am taking my blog leave from October 25 to 31, 2012!

Last time I went on a blog leave was last July and even then, it was a short break too just like now but it was something my mind begged so I could recharge and enjoy my time with my daughter. This time it's the whole family.

We are visting some relatives again in New York and we just love that place! The weather is cool and inviting, there are lots of goodies on sale and the autumn foliage is starting to show its wonderful hues. Besides those wonderful stuff, I kind of miss Shake Shack and Century 21!

So, if I will comment and visit your blogs on Nov.

Weekend Activities and Good Weather

The weather is quite inviting these past few days. I think it signifies the coming of the cooler months. We are all enjoying the breezy weekend and the whole family has so many stuff to do. My daughter has her activities with friends, hubby with his guests and I with my blogging and business opp.

Our weekend has never been this manic before. We used to just stay home because the weather is uncooperative. However, October spells more activities for all of us and probably the coming months.

I do hope I will find the energy to do all that we have lined up for the month (not to mention a travel in the offing...hehehe)!

Vacation Is Over

I cannot believe how soon time flies. Few days ago, my daughter and I was packing our bags for our trip to Singapore and we came back last Sunday. The fun is ending for me today as I ready myself to go back to work.

The whole Singapore trip was fun; although there was rain here and there on most days. We managed to enjoy ourselves while enjoying the downpour at the same time. Thanks to the "raincoats" sold at Universal Studios. We still had fun and that was the crux of this trip.

9 days seem to be so short! It is back to reality again and looking forward to the next trip. We haven't decided where to go yet and that will certainly depend on the budget. My daughter's prodding us to go to Spain and Portugal. Let's see.

Trip To Miami

Working in one of the most prestigious airlines in the world has so many perks and one of the top benefits is the  opportunity to travel anywhere. Traveling is one of my family's favorite activity. We always make sure that we travel annually to any destination in the world. We can have a repeat visit to a certain place we are fond of or we can go to a new place to discover new things, experience new culture and see more beautiful scenery.

United States of America is one of our favorite counties to visit. We have been there several times and we certainly enjoy every states we have visited in the past. We are just lucky enough to have family and friends scattered all over the USA and because of that, we can save a lot in accommodation. Our family and friends are gracious hosts and are willing to give us free board and lodging during our stay. So why let that offer slip?

We recently went to New York for a very brief weekend getaway. My best friend in Miami saw our pictures from one of the social sites and called me to invite us over her place. We have not been to Florida yet and visiting her and the rest of her family will be a wonderful experience to bond again, catch up on each other's happenings and see the beautiful beaches and places of interest in Florida.

We are planning to visit her in April 2013 during my daughter's spring break. So, I have plenty of time to research about the place, air fares for our connecting flights, Miami airport transfers and shuttles, places to visit, beaches to see and even cruises. My husband really fancy going on a cruise. My best friend and her family will also love the idea of all of us taking a short cruise. There are various ports in Florida and Miami is one of them. I have to make sure that our trip will be covered even if we are taking a cruise. If ever we are short of time because of the cruise, I can rely on the fact that our transfer from the port of Miami shuttle to Miami airport will be covered. I know my friend will help us in our travel plans to make it hassle-free with smooth transfers so as not to inconvenience anyone.

I am already getting excited about this trip. I am not thinking of the cost at the moment because there is still enough time. Our airline is not yet flying to Florida but we can take other routes that will connect us to Miami airport as our entry point. Our company may offer rebated tickets to the nearest destination in Florida and I can purchase then or get other airlines' staff discounted tickets. For now, I am collecting information to make this vacation a truly enjoyable one.

Seoul Vacation 2010

I have mentioned here before about the pictures I would post when I have things organized. I thought I would be able to organize our pictures as soon as we got back from Seoul. However, we had another trip to NYC few days after our arrival from Korea. So, to make the long story short, my pictures to organize have tripled! Here are some pictures taken in the beautiful city of Seoul.

Enjoy!

 Below is Myeongdong Street at night. This place is famous for its retail merchandise from the peddlers to the stores lined up. I didn't buy anything at all so I don't know how haggling works in this place. I have seen imitations upon imitations of famous luxurious brands here. I wanted to buy the fake "Ugg" but the better of me said nope.

Below is the Admiral Yi Sun-shin monument and fountains along Gwanghwamun Square. This square was inaugurated on 2009. It is right in front of the Gyeongbokgung Palace, in the heart of Seoul. This place is walking distance from where we stayed. Well, I forgot the name of the hostel but it was a member of the Innotel chains in Korea.

Below is the path leading to Gyeongbokgung Palace, still in  Gwahnghwamun Square. This is behind the Statue of King Sejong and the museum beneath it.

Below is a picture taken inside the palace. I posed near the tall guard before they all took off for the Ceremony of the Changing of the Guards. 

Inside the Gyeongbokgung Palace. Nice mountain backdrop, right?

I forgot  what this place was called. I'm not sure if this is the Sejong Centre of the Museum of Arts. I can't figure it out though.

This is taken from Gwanghwamun Square right after checking the museum beneath the King Sejong statue. Admission is free.

On our way to Everland Resort. It's like Disneyland in Seoul.

Some space-ship looking monument near the Lotte Castle and Resort.

Funny looking tree in Everland Resort.

The entrance facade of Everland Resort. It looks like Enchanted Kingdom from afar.

Inside Everland Resort. This is taken near the botanical garden.

 Holland Village in Everland Resort.

Chyeonggyecheon Stream at night. This is near the hostel where we stayed. I actually like the area where we booked our stay because it was walking distance to the subway, the palace and the square and this. Also near the night markets like Myeongdong and Nandaemon. This stream had wonderful musical fountain but when we returned after a long walk, it was already over so I didn't get to video and snap photos. Maybe next time.

My Daughter's Christmas Loads!

My daughter might find being a solo child advantageous especially on seasons like this - Christmas. Why you might ask? Well, she gets all the presents, that is why!

Her line of Christmas gifts came from her wonderful Papa (who happens to be my wonderful husband too...hehehehe) this year. They all came early though because part of them were rewards for being in the top 10 of her class.

For a young girl of her age to have so much is such a blessing. We try our very best to give her the best of life, as long as we can afford it. She also has disappointments but I know it's just a few because she got what she wanted for Christmas 2010.

Here are the rundown of her gifts (and what she requested!):

1. Converse - Her papa bought her during our trip to the US. We went to Jersey Gardens Outlet Mall in New Jersey on a side trip while enjoying a brief break from touring NYC!

2. Watch (any kind of watch) - Got her an inexpensive watch with dazzling gems on the clock face! Color - Purple!!!

3. Leather sneakers - Another shoes! Got it from the Dubai Outlet Mall and it looked like Converse but it's made in Germany ;) Very cheap but it's leather!!! Color - Purple again!!! I asked her if I can borrow it ;)

4. Trip to the US - Okay, this was a collective "like" from the family! My husband organized the trip on last minute although my daughter and I were hinting of having a week-long holiday break in NYC! So, off we went to New York last November 12 - 16.

5. New gadget! Her very own netbook. - Again, courtesy of my husband. We keep bickering who's going to use my laptop so to end the squabble, she got her own netbook. Of course, we only let her use it every weekend.

Well, she can't ask for more! We asked her already what she wanted for next year. I know it's too early but the earlier we know, the sooner we can save for it, right? TOKYO!!! Hmmmmm... Tokyo is a very expensive place to visit. Let's see. If she gives us great marks in school, her papa and I might consider.

Back from NYC!

We just came back from New York City. My darling husband decided to spend the Eid Holidays there and it was a decision made in haste. We had no plans nor itinerary laid out which was unusual because I always made it a point to organize the trip.

We stayed in the Upper Manhattan area along 96th street in Days Inn Hotel. The location was perfect because it was walking distance to the metro station. The hotel was also close to the Central Park, some Catholic churches, Michael's (my favorite arts supplies store), TJ Maxx and cafes and restaurants.

People there, like in Seoul, are health buffs and exercise all the time. The metro was packed and we walked around Time Square and Central Park. I felt that I lost more than a kilo just by walking around the city. It was as if I have taken fat burners because my pants has gotten a little loose! Wow!

I like the place. I love the weather! I love New York!

Travelling Light

We have been travelling quite a lot as a family ever since my husband and I joined one of the most prestigious airlines company of the world.

I am really glad for the opportunity to work in the airline industry because we get to travel a lot. And because of that, we have learned the art of packing light and smart!

Tomorrow's our flight to Seoul, Korea and we're not packing a lot of clothes. Just a couple of shirts and thermal wears and a warm jacket or coat to combat the chilly weather. As for the footwear, a sneaker and a warm boots will do. The toiletries are all small, carry-sizes and few undies. It is a short vacation so we can't carry a lot of unwanted stuff. Who knows, we may even carry more when we come back because of the numerous street markets in Seoul!

Going To Korea!!!

I am so excited! This is our first time to visit Korea. We just got our visas and raring to go...but not just yet! My leave does not happen until the end of the month so I have few more days to bear and grin it in the office.

I have been researching about the country since 2008 when we initially planned to go there instead of Europe. However, the lure of Germany and Italy were overpowering the charming country of Korea. So we decided to wait for some time. Then recession came but thank goodness, we managed to visit the great USA even before the peak of recession took its bite.

We still have cancelled a lot of planned trips after that. We were supposed to visit the US again last January but called it off due to an unexpected circumstance surrounding my passport. So, for 2010, our annual family trip will be in the beautiful country of South Korea. This time there will be no shopping involved because our budget is very, very tight. It will be plain sightseeing and relaxation only. This trip, by the way, is an all-expense-paid trip of my hubby for us. He knows I am so stressed so he is treating me and our daughter there. 

Korea, 우리가 간다!!! ( <---- Got that from the internet...hehehe). It says - Korea, here we come!

Outing at Ras Al Khaimah

I have been in this country for the last 10 years. I have not visited all the emirates of U.A.E. yet. The farthest I have been to was Abu Dhabi but not on a leisure trip. I had to take a flight out of Abu Dhabi. The other emirates I have visited briefly are Sharjah and Umm Al Quwain. Then comes Ras Al Khaimah in the list of another emirates state I have visited. Although it was a brief  trip but we got to see the beach and the main town in  RAK.

I will post pictures as soon as I load them in the computer. RAK is small and quaint. It is like living in the province. Life is very simple and not fast-paced like Dubai and the slightly laid-back Abu Dhabi. I didn't see much of the town. There were few high-rise building but mostly villas and smaller buildings. I can't imagine living there. I just like the city-living.

Happy Millie

Hubby and I decided to have a breakfast at the nearby McDonald's. We took Millie along. We haven't walked Millie for sometime now because of the extreme weather. That won't be too good for her and for me too.

I just noticed how Millie loves to go around for a drive. She prefers sitting in the car rather than walking. She always sit in the middle of the road after few minutes of walk and loves to be carried. Such a diva!

We sometimes take her to our family outings but Dubai is not too pet friendly in most public places. So, what we do is just tag her along and let her see the beaches and the neighborhood.

This was taken last year on our trip to Atlantis in The Palm, Jumeirah. She had fun! We did too :)

I Want To Stay...

My short vacation here in the Philippines is about to wrap-up tomorrow. My husband and I are headed to Bangkok for a nice R & R and quality couple-time. Our princess is staying here in the Philippines for 1 1/2 months before she returns to school as Grade 7 student. Time flies!

I haven't been home for the past 1 1/2 years so my heart yearns to stay longer. If only I don't have other obligations to settle in Dubai, I would really stay here for good. At first, I was uneasy and sort of disoriented because I already planned to migrate somewhere else. However, my heart is betraying me now ;) It is really true, home is where the heart is. I think I will dump my migrating plans entirely and settle here in the Philippines in the next couple of years.

I wish I can stay longer. I really, really do. Despite the sticky sweat, pollution, lack of airconditioning units at home and endless traffic, I feel this is where my heart is.

Hay....Manila, I keep coming home to Manila. There is no place like Manila... I'm coming home to stay...SOON!

Not Going

I have been planning for another trip to the US since last November 2009. Due to unforeseen events, I had to cancel the trip for the last quarter of 2009. Come January, 2010, we planned to travel on the 2nd week of the same month but my passport got wet so we had to postpone to a later date until I get my new passport. Now that I have my new passport and ready to go next week, my relatives in the US requested if we could postpone it again to a later date because they are going through rough times in their personal lives.

So there, I am taking heed of the signs. This is the 3rd time my US trip got cancelled and that is it. I am not going there for the meantime.

I just hope everything goes well with my relatives there.

The LORD does speak to me in many ways and various forms. I shall listen.

A Jamaican Holiday

I have been hoping for our company to add a flight in Florida so my family and I can have a side trip to Jamaica. I have heard so many nice things about the country and its pristine beaches. Not to mention the amiable people in the island.

Some of my colleagues have been to Jamaica and seeing their pictures made me list Jamaica in my one of the places I need to visit before I leave this plane. There are jamaica all inclusive packages available for airline staff so we can get good rates. Fortunately, I am an airline staff and I can find good rates if my family and I decide to visit Jamaica.

Viva Las Vegas!

The long, arduous drive to Las Vegas, Nevada was too much for our tushies. Hahahaha. I feel bad for our cousin who drove from San Diego all the way to Vegas without getting any help from any of us. We could pitch in for him but ever gracious that he is, he took charge without bothering us. It was roughly 6 hours drive because we had to stop for food at Barstow.

The weather in Las Vegas was great. They said it gets very humid and hot there too during summer but we were lucky enough to enjoy our vacation with the cold weather of winter's past.

We passed by snow capped mountains which left us in awe. They were beautiful sights to behold! I have never seen anything like that before. Wow!

We arrived in Las Vegas around 3:00 p.m. and was just in time for our check in at Excalibur Hotel. The hotel was so huge with several towers for accommodation. We were billeted at Tower 1 and was not overlooking the main strip.

The hotel is located in the beginning of the strip and has connection to the Las Vegas Monorail. We drove around during the afternoon to enjoy the view during the day. At night, we set out on foot to watch the famous dancing fountains at Bellagio Hotel and to see the famous strip at night. The lights around us were truly captivating!

I played the slot just once on the last day of our stay there. Well, I did not win because if I had, I wouldn't be back here...hahaha. My darling won around $170 on the tables. Lucky him! Instant pocket money eh....

Hope you'll have fun watching the slides in the fabulous Las Vegas!

Balboa Park and San Isidro

Here are more snaps taken in San Diego as we went around the San Diego Natural History Museum and the adjacent Balboa Park. But before that, we went shopping at the outlet mall in San Isidro which is near the Tijuana, Mexico border. I couldn't resist the calling of those "sale" signs posted on my favorite brands' shops. Wow, I don't mind living in this place!

We watched the Body Works exhibit which is very gross but educational at the same time. The exhibit features real cadavers explaining the human anatomy in full, graphic details. I do recommend this to those who are into science and anatomy. My daughter didn't even feel uneasy but rather, she found the whole exhibit informative.

Balboa Park is home to numerous museums, social events, performing arts venues, botanical gardens and the San Diego Zoo which is nearby. The park itself is free but the other attractions have their specific fees.

Enjoy the slides!

Photos in LA

Just sharing some of the snaps we have on our recent vacation in the great US of A last April 3 to 13, 2009.

Early Bird

My body clock went off much early than the alarm clock I set in the room. I was supposed to be up by 9 a.m., instead, woke up at 7:30 a.m.

I am busy as a bee today because I have to do a lot of errands before we leave for our family annual vacation to the US this year. I already listed all the things I need to buy for our families and friends there. I have also planned the routes I will take so I don't burn up a lot of fuel. I will go to the exchange centre as well to pay my bills and exchange my local money to some US notes (which I pray I won't spend to the last dime...).

We are almost ready, just waiting for the travel date on 3 April. Well, I have to go because I want to catch some worms! *wink*