It’s been a while since my last sheet mask review, so here’s one now. Centella is definitely an ingredient I recently discovered my skin loves. Read on to know more about my experience with Benton Cosmetic's Goodbye Redness Centella Mask Pack. Also, If you're interested to know more about Cica or Centella, I have already previously discussed some information on my Rovectin Cica Care Sleeping Pack Review. So let's get started on the review, shall we?

ABOUT

Goodbye Redness Centella Mask Pack soothes and protects skin with Centella Asiatica, also known as the tiger grass. The sheet mask hydrates and nourishes sensitive skin as it is free from irritants. It is suitable for all skin types.

How to Use

After cleansing, apply the mask onto your face and leave on for up to 20 minutes. Remove the mask and pat in the remaining essence.

Ingredients

Centella Asiatica Leaf Water, Aqua (Water), Glycerin, Pentylene Glycol, Butylene Glycol, Microcrystalline Cellulose, Centella Asiatica Extract, Sodium Gluconate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Propanediol, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Asiatic Acid, Madecassic Acid, Asiaticoside, Madecassoside, Portulaca Oleracea Extract, Xanthan Gum, Cellulose Gum, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Hydrogenated phosphatidylcholine, 1,2-Hexanediol, Cetearyl Alcohol, Sucrose Stearate

Where to Buy

26$ at Style Korean for a set of 10 pcs (but it currently on sale at 8% off)

MY EXPERIENCE

Packaging

The packaging is so cute! I couldn’t imagine a huge ass pimple looking cute, but it’s so adorably presented in this packet. It’s pretty clever too, with the zit shouting “Goodbye Redness”. I also like how compact the packaging is. It’s so easy to store and stack anywhere. This is especially helpful if you’re traveling.

Scent

Goodbye Redness Centella Mask Pack is fragrance free but it does have a very faint smell of a typical sheet mask. Not bothersome at all.

Material

The material is an S-Cell mask which is said to be eco-friendly, sadly, not the packaging though. I tried researching about it but couldn’t find any more information. The mask itself is perfect, not too thick, not too thin, just right. The mask is notably soft too. It is probably the best sheet mask I have ever tried in terms of material.

Fit and adherence is awesome too. It fit my face perfectly, no air bubbles were present and I didn’t need to readjust the mask in any way while wearing it. It didn’t slip off even the slightest. Again, this is probably the best sheet mask I have ever tried in terms of fit and adherence.

Essence

The essence is transparent, runny, a bit tacky but it does absorb quickly and doesn’t leave the face sticky. The amount of essence is just right. The sheet mask is perfectly soaked and a bit more of the essence is left inside the packet for your hands and arms.

Results

Upon application, I noticed that there is a soothing sensation on my breakouts which was very welcome on my disturbed skin. It was pretty cooling too.

After 20 minutes of use, my face feels refreshed, soft and supple. Essence absorbed in less than 5 minutes and left my skin with a semi-matte finish. My skin looks a bit brighter but I don’t think it did a lot in reducing any redness I was experiencing. 

MY THOUGHTS

Benton Cosmetics Goodbye Redness Centella Mask Pack is great. Benton did a commendable job on it. Did it reduce redness though? I didn’t see much of a difference but it maybe because my skin was not red enough to begin with. A lot of other people did have amazing results on the red reduction part. Nonetheless, it is a sheet mask that my skin loves and using it was such a pleasure. Definitely worth a try. 👍

I have been a chocolate lover since forever. The chocolate section is where I spend the longest time when I go grocery shopping. However, treats from great brands are not exactly accessible and are way too expensive here in the Philippines. This is where SMR Chocolates come in. SMR Chocolates Cebu offers sweets that you won't commonly find at our local supermarkets and they are at the cheapest prices possible!

SMR Chocolates

SMR Chocolates have been crazed by the chocolate lovers of Manila because of their affordable prices and now, it has finally come to Cebu.

SMR Chocolates

They have both imported and local goodies. Their products are not only limited to chocolates, they offer drinks, snacks and baking supplies too. SMR even has their own line of cookies and brownies, which are also worth a try. Their stocks run out easily due to high demand, so don't forget to check their Facebook Page for updates regarding what items are available.

SMR Chocolates

If you're a chocolate lover whose looking for treats to stock up on, or if you're just looking for gifts, giveaways and pasalubongs, SMR Chocolates Cebu is always a must visit!

By the way, don't forget to check out CouponKirin to get the latest coupons and vouchers for chocolates!

More Information:

Location:

Unit 8 Escario Central Mall, Escario Street, Brgy. Kamputhaw, Cebu City

Operating Hours:

9AM to 8PM daily

How to Get There:

Ride any jeepney passing thru Escario Central Mall. If you're coming from Colon or Fuente you may ride the following jeepney routes: 17D, 17B, 14D, and 04H. If you're coming from Ayala Center Cebu, you may ride these routes from the terminal: 14D, 12L.

Admission fees to different attractions while traveling can stack up and become a major dent in your wallet. Macau, also known as the gambling mecca of Asia, is infamous for its expensive hotels, luxurious shopping centers, grand casinos, impeccable shows and world class restaurants. No wonder why budget travelers feel a bit worried for their pockets when planning a trip to Macau. However, underneath Macau's extravagant exterior lies worthwhile destinations that can be enjoyed without spending a dime. Yes, you've read that right! Here are things you can do in Macau that are absolutely free.

1. Travel via Shuttle Bus

Getting from one point to another in Macau is extremely easy. Visitors may avail of various hotel shuttle buses that have routes and stops that includes all key locations in Macau. You just have to wait for a bus at a designated bus stop and hop on. You don't have to be a hotel guest to be board the buses, so don't be nervous when you try to ride one. The buses are in pristine condition and with free WIFI too! Shuttle service routes and schedules are provided in each hotel’s website. Another tip would be to ask the hotel staff members about how to go to your preferred destination. The hospitality industry in Macau is surely one of the finest in the world. Shuttle buses are great use for your Macau day trip. 

2. Go strolling through Senado Square

Senado Square is triangular shaped public park in Macau which is also a part of the UNESCO Historic Centre of Macau World Heritage Site. It is one of the most visited places in Macau because of its old world European styled architecture and historic significance. Another notable feature is the wavelike black and white mosaic floor which provides a dreamy feeling. 

The Ruins of St. Paul has no admission fee.

3. Visit the Ruins of St. Paul

Probably Macau’s most iconic landmark is the Ruins of St. Paul, the remaining facade of the St. Paul Parish which was devastated by a fire in the 1800’s. Due to it being a staple as a destination you can visit in Macau for free, tourists flock here so it could get pretty crowded. Make sure you visit early so you can enjoy the view more peacefully.

Stunning views at Mount Fortress

4. Enjoy the view at Mount Fortress

Located just in close proximity to the Ruins of St. Paul is another gem in Macau that is admission free. Mount Fortress, built between 1617 and 1626, is a fort that is formerly the stronghold for Macau’s military defense. It has since then been demilitarized but still features replica canons that lines its walls. Today, it offers a stunning panoramic view of Macau and is one of the best spots to catch the gorgeous sunset. You can also visit Museo de Macao which is located at the garden of the fortress. The museum also offers free admissions every Tuesdays and on public holidays.

Pay homage at A-Ma Temple

5. Pay homage at the A-Ma Temple

One of the oldest in Macau, A-Ma Temple is dedicated to sea goddess Mazu who is believed to guide seafarers for a safe journey. The temple has beautiful pavilions and halls which are incredibly tempting for shutterbugs everywhere. You do have to buy a pack of incense if you want to light some for the complete experience though.

Ride the cable car at Wynn Palace

6. Ride the Cable Car and watch the Performance Lake at Wynn Palace

Going for a cable car ride is usually pretty costly, however, Wynn Palace offers a free ride on their own version of a cable car, the SkyCab. Again, you don’t have to be a guest to enjoy this attraction. On the SkyCab, you are greeted with the best view of the hotel’s performance lake, a lake that combines water, lights and music for a spectacular show. If you’re lucky, you could catch the show while on the SkyCab, if not, watching it on ground level is just as wonderful. Performance Lake shows run every 30 minutes starting from 12:00pm to 12:00mn.

Pose in front of the Replica Eiffel Tower at the Parisian.

7. Pose in front of the Replica Eiffel Tower at The Parisian

Who say’s you have to catch a plane to Europe to take a photo with the famous Eiffel Tower? The Parisian Macao’s main attraction is a replica of the Eiffel Tower, albeit half-scaled. Taking a photo is totally free but if you prefer to go levels higher, there is an entrance fee for its observation deck.

Venice feels at The Venetian

8. Pretend You’re In Venice at The Venetian’s Canals

The Venetian’s Grand Canals are a sight to see. It’s lined with luxury shops and restaurants that are styled just like the ones you would see in Venice. Spending a long time here might make you forget you’re actually still in Macau. Romantic gondola rides are also available for a fee.

Look at all the free attractions in other hotels and casinos.

9. Casino and Hotel Hopping

Besides the major hotel attractions already included above, there are still tons of things to see in various hotel and casinos in Macau. Every establishment is special in their own right and a visit is almost surely extremely visually appealing. A sample of which in Wynn Macau’s rotunda are a pair of admission free entertainments you definitely shouldn’t miss: Dragon of Fortune and the Tree of Prosperity. The Dragon of Fortune features a dragon rising above the mist with glowing eyes and smoke coming out of its nostrils. Alternating the later is the Tree of Prosperity which features an 11-meter tree with leaves embellished in 24K gold. The tree gracefully spins while providing an illusion of changing seasons. Both shows have an approximately 4 minute duration and are running alternately in 30 minute intervals daily. Note: You can get from one hotel and casino to another by taking advantage of the free shuttle buses. 

10. Sample Macanese Delicacies

Who would say no to free food? Not the budget traveler of course! Majority of souvenir and pastry shops in Macau over free taste of their delicacies. Don’t be shy to try out a few samples, just make sure they are indeed free samples though. If you like some, buy some, if you don’t or don’t have the budget for it, just say thank you and walk away. No one will glare at you for not buying anything. 

Macau, whose luxurious reputation can be off-putting, is surprisingly budget-friendly. With the above list of things to do in Macau for free, you can plan your trip in a way that maximizes your time and money.



More Hong Kong and Macau Blog Posts:

• Macau One Day Travel Itinerary
• Hong Kong and Macau on a Budget Using the iVenture Card

If you travel by air quite regularly, then you have likely noticed an increase in the number of dogs and cats that you see at airports.

Ever wondered why this is?

Animal Support Program is used in various airports of the world.

Are you planning on traveling to Hong Kong and Macau anytime soon? You may want to consider purchasing an iVenture Card to save you time and money. Through an iVenture Card, you can already gain access to Hong Kong and Macau's top destinations cash-free with just a single pass and you can save as much as 20,000 pesos! Amazing, right? Continue reading below to see how you can maximize your trip using an iVenture Card and if purchasing one is the right choice for you.

There are many holidays in the Philippines. During some holidays though, it feels better to just stay at home and binge-watch your favorite TV shows than to drive to the beach. Especially if you’re the family driver and the travel time exceeds two hours, right? Good thing, there are numerous vacation places in the Philippines you can commute to via bus or other public utility vehicles. 

Let’s focus on the vacation places in Northern Luzon other than the all-time favorite Baguio City. To visit these places we’ll enumerate below, you just need to head to the bus terminals in Cubao (Quezon City) and Pasay. Make the most of the technology available today and do your online research – know the routes, schedule, and travel time to your destination. All the information you would need are available on the bus company’s website. Remember, the best trips will always be those that are well-planned. 

Here are six vacation places you and your friends and family may visit in the next holidays: 

1.) Zambales 

This place is top-of-mind of many people who want instantly think of a quick trip to the beach when they hear the word ‘holiday.’ This province in Central Luzon features nature & parks, sights & landmarks, as well as water & amusement parks. From Anawangin to Talisayin Cove, to Mount Balingkilat, Mount Pinatubo, The Hellships Memorial, and Inflatable Island - Zambales never runs out of offerings its visitors. Travel time to get there from Cubao is around 4 hours and 43 min via North Luzon Expressway.

2.) Pangasinan 

Pangasinan is one of the most underrated provinces in the country, as people don’t recognize it just keeps on getting better and better each year. Among the choices you have here are Hundred Islands, Patar Beach, and the Bolinao Falls. First, to get to Hundred Islands, you may take the bus from Pasay City terminal that goes directly to Alaminos. you can then take a tricycle from the city to Lucap Wharf when you get there. 

3.) Cagayan

Cagayan is a province located in the Cagayan Valley region in the northeast of Luzon Island, which includes the Babuyan Islands to the north. It borders Ilocos Norte and Apayao to the west and Kalinga and Isabela to the south. Cagayan’s capital is the city of Tuguegarao. You’ll enjoy this place if you’re looking for a trip to some of the most historic churches, caves, and cathedrals in the country. Still, you can chill in Palau or Santa Ana’s scenic islands with various beaches, seaside resorts, and lighthouses. 

4.) Isabela 

Despite being the second largest province in the country and the largest in Luzon in terms of land area, very few people would go out of their way to spend a vacation in Isabela. To get there, you may take air-conditioned buses from Pasay in Manila or Cubao to major towns such as Cauayan and Santiago for 500-600 pesos one way. Travel time is around 8 to 10 hours depending on the stops. As you visit, you'll see many premiere destinations with beautiful white sand beaches and islands in the coastal areas. 

5.)Kalinga

The province of Kalinga is in Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR). How do you get there? Simply take a bus going to Tabuk via Tinglayan. Travel time is usually 3 hours. There are jeepneys that would take you straight to your destination. They say the scenery in Kalinga is probably the best anywhere in the Philippines. It boasts the gargantuan mountains crushing up against one another, as well as the ancient rice terraces that remain cultivated up to now, flowing down their sides. 

6.) Nueva Vizcaya 

Now let's talk about the major producer of citrus crops in the country, principally pomelo, ponkan and oranges - Nueva Vizcaya. Bet you didn't know its Agricultural Terminal in Bambang supplies the demand of neighboring provinces and Metro Manila, right? One place you may visit in the holidays is the well-preserved church of San Vicente Ferrer located in Dupax del Sur. Interestingly, it was built during the second half of the 18th century under the Dominicans and was declared as a National Cultural Treasure. 

Exciting, right? For sure, everyone would enjoy your upcoming visits to the places we’ve discussed, as all of you would be passengers. This means, no one would be deprived of the precious chance to meditate during the long travel. All you need to do is focus your energy in researching and booking your trips beforehand online. Indeed, one of the best things about the country is flexibility in every aspect of life – even, and more importantly, in the modes of transportation.

Macau is known as Asia’s Las Vegas for a reason. It’s filled with world class hotels with in-house casinos of matching grandeur. However, this reputation does not do Macau any justice. It is so much more than just a gambler’s paradise. Due to its close proximity, tourists visiting Hong Kong usually consider a day trip in Macau. With just an hour of travel time, visa-free entry and plenty of daily ferry trip schedules to choose from, visitors can explore Macau and get back to their hotel in Hong Kong by the evening. This one day trip travel itinerary will explore the things to see and do in Macau other than its famous casinos.

Nothing wrong if you believe in retail therapy and really like shopping. After all, you deserve to be rewarded, or you’d find life too hard—just know where to shop.

You work a 9 to 5 job five times a week and had been good to just everyone you meet. Before you know it, here comes payday and the weekend! How do most yuppie like you reward yourself for hustling and being corporate slaves for the entire weekday? You shop. Continue reading to know what this article has to say about ‘retail therapy’ and the best budget-friendly places in Manila.

 Is retail therapy a thing? If you’ve seen the movie ‘Confessions of a Shopaholic’ by P.J. Hogan, the guilty lead character explained why she likes to shop. According to her, there’s something about seeing a nice thing in the store, picking it up, swiping, then boom, it’s yours. To her, these items “never broke her heart.” Men probably can relate to this feeling as well—only that they have more self-control than women when it comes to shopping.

Now, let’s look at some studies and numbers. A survey conducted by TNS Global, on behalf of Ebates.com, revealed that 52% of Americas (64% women and 40% men) engage in retail therapy to improve their mood.

This supports a previous study done by the Journal of Psychology and Marketing. It states, 62% of shoppers bought something to cheer themselves up, while 28% purchased items as a form of celebration.

So we’ve talked about how retail therapy serves as a de-stressor for both men and women. While it seems all good, it could lead to an unhealthy addiction if not done in moderation. What makes it wrong is when people shop beyond their means. So, yuppies in Manila need to know where to shop with a budget. After all, it would be wrong to spend every cent of your hard-earned money on material things, right?

Who wouldn’t have Divisoria on their personal list? Well, this place is still queen when it comes to budget-friendly shopping haven. You just need to know where the best deals are, such as Asuncion and El Cano streets for fruits, and Ongpin street for cheap clothes. If you’re after items to buy and give to friends as gifts, you can walk to 168 Shopping Mall or Tutuban shopping center. What they sell are not only affordable, but also made of quality materials.

For those who say Divisoria are for the mommies and not-so-chic enough, you may head to Greenhills Shopping Center instead. It has been around for quite a time now serving the more upscale population of trendy shoppers. Stores are neatly divided according to items sold and housed inside an air-conditioned building. You can find everything here from bags, shoes, to gadget and car accessories for the mean. Maybe it would be okay for your boyfriend or husband to tag along as you shop in Greenhills.

You’ve probably heard of Taytay Tiangge before, from people talking about how many clothes they’ve hoarded on their very first visit. This garment haven located near the New Taytay Public Market in Rizal has been making waves offering items for as low as 40 pesos. Your 1000 pesos would definitely get far! Items are also trendy and doesn’t look how much they’re worth. See for yourself if this could be the Divisoria of the east, or even better.

Again, cheer up, people of the east! You don’t have to suffer commuting or driving in traffic to get to Divisoria or Greenhills Shopping Center. Just to go Marikina Market Mall. Especially if you’re fond of collecting shoes, you’ll find a lot here made by the famous and legendary shoemakers of Marikina. Rest assured, they’re worth your money because they’re going to last until they fit your grandchild feet, if not forever.

There is nothing wrong if you believe in retail therapy and really like shopping. After all, it is important to reward yourself from time to time, or you’d find life too hard. Just do it in moderation and don’t shop beyond your means. Visit these four best places to shop with a budget, which we have discussed. Remember, elegance is a way of life, not some brand or designer item money can buy.