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A Sunset Cruise at Hong Kong's Victoria Harbour
Sunday, April 12, 2020
asia
When I think about Hong Kong, an image of the beautiful Victoria Harbour immediately comes to mind. It’s no wonder why a Victoria Harbor Cruise is a popular tourist activity in Hong Kong. You get to hop onto a relaxing boat ride with the twinkling city skyline on the backdrop. What an incredible way to top off a tiring day of sightseeing. Luckily for us, Watertours Victoria Harbour Sunset Cruise was included in our Hong Kong Macau iVenture Card Attraction Pass.
We started off the day early and had a fun day at Hong Kong Ocean Park. Afterwards, we found our way to Central Pier No.9 - not without difficulty. We had a hard time finding it, panicking a bit that we won’t make it. We eventually did though and even had some extra time before the cruise departs. The pier did not have any signs that the Watertours Victoria Harbour Cruise was stationed there, no posters, no personnel, nothing. So we were unsure if we had the right location until the boat finally arrived.
The cruise departed at exactly 6:30 pm. You are advised to be there 15 minutes prior. No tickets were given, we only had to present our iVenture Card Electronic Pass to avail the cruise. The boat already had a few passengers who were picked up from Kowloon Public Pier. You can opt to join the cruise at Kowloon, but since our itinerary brought us closer to Central Pier, we decided to hop on from there. You can choose to hop off at either of the Piers too.
Once settled in our chosen seats which overlooked the fantastic Hong Kong view, the bartender started offering drink. Unlimited drinks including Spirits, Cocktails, Wines, Beer, Soft Drinks, Tea or Coffee is offered on-board for free. My alcoholic heart is overjoyed. The bartender is very accommodating so don’t forget to leave him a tip before the cruise is over.
The Watertours Victoria Harbour Cruise sails out to the Eastern Harbour, along Central, Wanchai, Causeway Bay, North Point and Lei Yue Mun Village. It even has a voice over - both in English and Chinese to guide you through the route, providing more information about what you’re seeing. I must admit, I did not listen though but I’m sure it must have been informative. I was too busy either taking photos or ordering drinks (Oooops).
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| Watertours Victoria Harbour Cruise Route. |
Our camera was not cooperating though. The photos we took fail to give justice to the view our eyes feasted upon. The city lights glistening over the pristine waters, the romantic sunset, the chilly sea breeze blowing through my hair. All of this while I’m enjoying a glass of wine with the most special person in the world. It was some sort of magical and I was more than happy to experience it.
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| Thank you fellow traveler for this photo. |
The cruise lasted for approximately an hour. We hopped off at Kowloon Pier, just in time to catch the Symphony of Lights and see Hong Kong’s skyline transform yet again into a fantastic light show.
More Information:
Operation: Nightly
Departure: 6:15 pm - Kowloon Public Pier No.3
6:30 pm - Hong Kong Central Pier No.9
Duration: 1 hour (approx.)
Price: HK$ 260.00 (Adult)
HK$ 180.00 (Child, 2-12 years old
Inclusive: Unlimited Drinks on-board
Watertours offers a variety of cruises which you can choose, depending on what you prefer and what fits your schedule and budget. You can check out the options on their website.
Exploring Macau with the T.K.W. Macau Sightseeing Tour
Sunday, April 5, 2020
asia
When we traveled to Macau, we availed the iVenture Attraction Pass for Hong Kong and Macau. This was truly worth it (check out my post about that to know why!). One of its inclusions is the T.K.W. Macau Sightseeing Tour - one of the best sightseeing tours in Macau. It is perfect for getting a glimpse of Macau featuring its rich heritage, history and impressive skyline. It’s best for travelers who only have limited time to explore Macau.
We booked a tour a few days prior to our trip, as instructed on the iVenture website. We went directly to Macau Outer Harbor Ferry Terminal and found the TKW Travel and Tours counter to claim our tickets. We were given some pamphlets and a sticker that would serve as our identification throughout the tour. NOTE: Booking your tour prior to the day you’ll be having the it is crucial. We encountered some groups who didn’t do so and they were not allowed to join the tour. The tour begins at 10:00 am.
A friendly tour guide called our attention for an orientation. The group was diverse - including a few Filipinos, Europeans and Koreans, even some who were Chinese. We were then led to a tour bus which transported us throughout the tour. The bus was okay, it wasn’t dirty or anything. They even handled my suitcase, which was a relief. And so...the tour begins!
First up on our itinerary was the Mount Fortress, a fort built in the 1600's to protect Macau from pirates. It offers a panoramic view of Macau’s skyline. We enjoyed the fresh air here and took a bunch of photos. It kinda looks like the Philippines’ Intramuros, it being a fortress and all.
Next, we walked a short distance to reach the Ruins of St. Paul. The attractions are just adjacent each other. The guide offered some history regarding the parish and how it was burnt in the 1800s. This was a majestic sight, however, it was really crowded. I was able to get pretty good photos though (angle angle lang yan!).
You’ll also find a food market when you descend the church’s grand staircase. It’s filled with appetizing dishes such as fishball in curry sauce, dumplings, milk tea and Macau’s famous Portuguese Egg Tart. We were then brought by the guide to a store with Filipina salesperson and was encouraged to buy souvenirs there, we didn’t buy anything though.
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| Hearty Lunch at the Riviera Hotel |
It was then lunch time. The tour included a free buffet lunch at the Riviera Hotel. The choices weren’t much but considering that it was free, we were satisfied and had our belly’s filled. Over lunch, we also got to interact with the other Filipinos in the group. As we were on our first day of our HK-Macau trip and they were on their last day, we were eager to ask them about their tips, recommendations and experiences.
When we were full, it was time to get on with the tour. We headed to A-Ma Temple, one of the oldest temples in Macau. The area was quite small but nonetheless beautiful. We were led to another souvenir shop in the are where we were offered free taste of their delicacies. Don’t be afraid to avail the free taste, no one will force you to buy anything.
The TKW Tour does not include free admission to the Macau Tower but this was included on the Iventure Card so we asked the guide to drop us off there. We ended the tour there while the rest of the tour proceeded to enjoy several casinos and Senado Square. The tour will approximately end at 3:30pm where the group will be brought back to Macau Outer Harbor Ferry Terminal.
TKW Macau Tour costs 54.04USD per adult which is pretty hefty for me. If this wasn’t included in the iVenture Card, I would have never joined a tour. Macau is pretty easy to navigate anyway and the casinos offer free shuttle buses to transport you to key places in Macau. You don’t even have to be a guest to avail these free shuttles. But overall, the TKW Macau Sightseeing Tour was an enjoyable experience. Kudos to our tour guide also, he was funny, very informative and spoke great English.
More Hong Kong and Macau Blog Posts:
A Taste of Macau at Broadway Macau Food Street
Saturday, April 4, 2020
food
Whenever I travel, I make a point to try and experience a destination's culture through their culinary traditions (a.k.a. food trip is life!). In Macau's case, their cuisine is unique since it's a combination of East meets West influences because they were colonized by the Portuguese for a long time. We tried to explore Macau's food offerings through visiting one of its largest food markets, the Broadway Macau Food Street.
Broadway Macau Food Street is located inside the Galaxy Broadway Resort in Cotai Island. It is set up as inspired by traditional hawker style markets, with more of less 40 food stalls offering local delicacies as well as a some Asian dishes. With the great selections from a variety of food stalls and restaurants - from street food level to Michelin-star level, there’s always something for every taste bud and budget.
Luckily for us, we availed the iVenture Card for our Hong Kong and Macau travel. One of its inclusions is a meal voucher worth 70HKD which can be availed in one of the food stalls in Broadway Macau Food Street. Because we already had our lunch during the TKW Macau Tour (also included in the iVenture Card Hong Kong and Macau Pass), we used the meal voucher for our dinner.
When we arrived, the ambiance of the place was wonderful. It felt laid back, with free entertainment. That night, they had acoustic music. Some nights they even have stilt performers which sounds like fun! We were directed to claim our meal voucher from the Broadway Kitchen and found out that they already have predetermined meal sets you can choose from. That was a bit disappointing because I expected we would be able to use the voucher anywhere we want in the food street. Regardless, this was a free inclusion we were happy to have and I can’t complain about the choices they have available for us.
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| Dining voucher from the iVenture Card. |
We ended up choosing spicy noodles from the Ba Shan Spicy Noodle House. It came with free tea and a cucumber salad. This proved to be a great choice because the weather was particularly chilly that day and it was nice to indulge in hot tea and spicy soup. The fish ball was nice as well.
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| Our order. Spicy noodles with fish balls. |
We stayed for a bit to rest and enjoy the music. It kinda reminds me of Cebu’s own Sugbo Mercado, only cleaner and less crowded. Broadway Macau Food Street is surely a great place to stroll around and discover all sorts of food Macau has to offer.
Location:
Broadway Macau Resort,
Av. Marginal Flor de Lotus, Macao
10 Things to Do in Macau for Free
Saturday, May 25, 2019
asia
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.
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| 10 things to do in Macau for 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.
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| 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.
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| 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.
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| 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.
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| 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.
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| 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.
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| 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.
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| 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:
More Hong Kong and Macau Blog Posts:
Hong Kong and Macau on a Budget using the iVenture Card
Sunday, May 19, 2019
asia
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.
Vacation Places You Can Easily Commute to From Metro Manila
Sunday, May 12, 2019
featuredThere 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 in a Day: A Travel Itinerary
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.
A Guide to Taboan Public Market - The Dried Fish Capital of Cebu
Sunday, February 10, 2019
cebu
Danggit, a thin kind of salted dried fish, is one of Cebu City’s most famous ‘pasalubongs’. Various places in the city sell dried fish, but none is as popular as Taboan Public Market, also known as the Dried Fish Center of Cebu. The choices and variety of dried fish you can buy here is far wider than all other store in Cebu, that is why a visit to Cebu isn’t complete without going to Taboan. Continue reading below for some things you need to know about Taboan Public Market.
How to Get To Taboan Public Market?
If you’re a traveler, the best way to get to Taboan Market is through a taxi. Taxi drivers are very familiar with this place. It’s not too far off from key locations in the city too, so you don’t have to worry about your taxi bill being too expensive. However, if you want to go for a more ‘local’ route, you can easily ride a jeepney. Jeepneys marked with 04D, 08G, 17B, 17D will pass by here. If you’re not familiar with the place, talk to the driver or the conductor to drop you off at Taboan Market. Jeepney drivers and conductors are very helpful to tourists.
Things to Know About Taboan Public Market
1. One kilo of dried fish usually costs around 350-750 pesos, depending on quality.
Since there is a wide array of choices, prices vary as well. Some of the more expensive kinds are marinated with garlic or other flavors, referred to as ‘special’, for a more mouth watering taste.
2. You can haggle.
Like all other markets, you can always haggle with the market vendors to buy any product at a lower price. Be sure to haggle reasonably also. The vendors are earning money through honest and hard work. Don’t expect them to give you a price that’s too low that they’re basically giving away their products for free. That’s not fair to the vendors and is bad for the overall health of the market as well.
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| You can find all sorts of Cebu delicacies in Taboan Market also! |
3. Other Cebu Delicacies are also sold here.
When visiting Tabaon Public Market, you won’t just see dried fish for sale. There are also other famous Cebu delicacies available here such as dried mangoes, chicharon, otap, chorizo de Cebu and many more.
4. Danggit is just one of the many dried seafood displayed in Taboan.
Some of the other seafood sold in Tabaon are dried shrimp, dried squid, fish tapa, fish tocino and other types of dried fish.
5. Be sure to compare prices before buying anything.
Prices offered by shops inside the market are cheaper than those of the stores near the entrance. To make sure you are getting the best prices, look around the market first before making a purchase.
6. It is not as busy as other markets.
If you’re a bit hesitant to visit Taboan because you think it’d be too crowded like other markets in the Philippines, then worry not. Taboan is very quiet and low key, unlike the bigger Carbon Public Market. It is also surprisingly clean. You surely will not be uncomfortable.
7. The smell of dried fish is strong enough to stick onto your clothes.
Yes, when visiting Taboan Market, expect that you will be smelling like dried fish afterwards. Make sure to schedule your visit accordingly. Plan your clothes as well, you wouldn’t want your fave outfits smelling like dried fish. If you have somewhere to go after, a bath or a change in clothes would be a good idea.
8. You can ask vendors to pack your purchases in small sizes.
On a budget? You can still get everyone on your list a pack of Cebu’s danggit. You can ask the seller to pack your purchases into smaller sizes (1/8 kilo) for it to be ‘pasalubong’ ready. Smaller packs can be easily distributed to your friends and it is usually enough for one meal.
9. Dried fish can be placed on your carry-on.
If you’re a budget traveler and you don’t have baggage allowance, you can still take these smelly delicacies home. You can bring dried fish from Taboan Market on your carry-on baggage. Just make sure to tell the vendor to pack it to be hand carry friendly. They will already know what to do.
10. Taboan Public Market is open as early as 4am and as late as 8pm.
Although at the earlier and later hours, fewer stalls are open. Schedule your trip accordingly.
There you have it, the important things you need to know about Taboan Market. I hope that this has been helpful to you. If you ever find yourself in Cebu, a visit to Taboan Market is always a good idea. Also, don’t forget to enjoy your dried fish with some hot rice and spicy vinegar!
A Guide to Traveling on a Budget
Thursday, January 31, 2019
featured |
| Traveling on a budget can be hard, but not with these tips! |
So, you’ve booked a flight from a seat sale, and you’re about to get jet set? Not so fast! Traveling on a budget requires careful planning both before and during the trip. Read on for some of our favorite tips here for seeing the world, without breaking the bank.
1. Travel Outside of Peak Season
It is tempting to travel during festivals and holidays, but these are also the times when airlines and accommodations post higher prices. Traveling outside of these busy times allows you to avail of special travel promos that can cut your costs considerably.
2. Book a Hostel Early
That suite at a 4-star hotel with room service and an in-house spa may offer the best in rest and relaxation, but these luxuries come at a high price. Most hostels offer comfortable rooms with amenities such as internet, cable TV, and a solo bathroom, but all at lower costs. Book a hostel room early to avail of lower rates and get that massage elsewhere.
3. Plan Your Itinerary Smartly
Every destination has its “must-see” sights, but these mandatory stops come with a caveat. Some places are also known as “tourist traps”, wherein less savvy travelers may end up shelling out on unnecessary services, tours, and the bane of everyone’s budget—souvenirs! Search online, read reviews, and ask seasoned travelers for recommendations that are off the beaten track, or for how to cut costs at the more touristy places. Look up museums, cultural festivals, outdoor shows, and other experiential attractions with free entrance or minimal door charges.
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| Utilizing public transportation can reduce travel costs dramatically! |
4. Take Public Transportation
Booking taxis or transport network services may be the fastest way to get you across a busy city. However, these trips can add up significantly even over a stay of a few days. Allot more time for travel, familiarize yourself with bus and train routes, and get walking! Acquiring passes or multi-use tickets upon arrival will help make your public transport experience more convenient.5. Get Local Food Recommendations
Venture beyond eating solely at fast-food restaurants or worse, at convenience stores (even if those microwavable meals and instant noodles are cute). Ask friends residing at your destination or even friendly faces such as your hostel concierge for their food recommendations. Not only will you cut costs significantly, but you will have the opportunity to be acquainted with a hallmark of another place’s culture: its cuisine.6. Watch Out for ATM Fees
Traveling without cash is very convenient, but there’s a drawback to relying on ATM withdrawals or debit especially for overseas travel. ATM withdrawals at your destination may have additional fees especially for cards issued at your point of origin. Make such transactions sparingly, and make sure to carry just enough of the local currency, always secured on your person!7. Be Haggle Savvy
It’s a common enough scenario at the market: you are offered an outlandish price for a beautiful trinket or rare good, but you are given the opportunity to haggle. Before springing for your “lowered” price, make sure that you have compared selling prices for similar items from different sellers. You might be paying for a seemingly marked down curio, only to find that you could have bought it for less just down the road! As with all bargain finds, check the quality of your purchases to make sure you are getting the best value for your money.8. Consider the Overnight Train
Traveling over land? Taking the night train is an efficient option to get you from Destination A to Destination B, without the added hassle of paying for an additional night at your accommodations. Just make sure to secure your belongings if you must snooze en route.9. Limit Pasalubong
Lastly, keep the excess weight off your baggage by buying ‘pasalubong’ smartly. Don’t buy heavy and fragile items or anything that can lead to unexpected overweight baggage charges.Having limited funds does not mean a damper on enjoyment. In fact, travelers regard a budget as an additional motivation to get the best value for their money when having a trip like no other. We hope these tips will be helpful to you, and bon voyage!
Note: This is a sponsored post.
Upside Down World, Cebu - A Place for Kids and Kids at Heart
Friday, October 26, 2018
cebu
umop ap!sdn.
Please excuse my attempt at having a clever introduction.
Remember when upside down photos were all over social media? Well, of course you do. These photos were, however, taken from Upside Down Museums from different cities. Ever since then, I couldn't wait to have one just like it in Cebu City. That is exactly what we got when Upside Down World Cebu opened their doors to the public on March 23, 2017.
With its accessible location and fun-filled offerings, Upside Down World Cebu is a perfect destination for friends and family.
The Museum
Upside Down World Cebu consists of 11 rooms where you can get your tupsy-turvy fun and have your creative juices flowing. Each room has a theme, mostly rooms we have in our own houses. You can be as creative as you can and let your imagination run wild. Don't worry if you run out of ideas though, their accommodating and friendly staff will be more than happy to suggest some poses and concepts for you.
Guests are requested to take off their shoes before entering the museum to help keep the place clean. A locker where you can store your footwear and other belongings is free to use.
Themed-Rooms
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| The Living Room |
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| The Library |
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| Kid's Playroom |
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| The Bedroom |
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| The Marketplace |
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| The Bathroom and Laundry Room |
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| The Kitchen |
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| The Dining Room |
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| The Magic Room |
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| The Game Room |
Monthly Photo Contest
Upside Down World Cebu hosts a monthly photo contest. The mechanics are simple: Post a photo of yourself in their 11 themed rooms with the hashtag #upsidedownworldcebu. Nominees are posted every 24th of the month. Winners are determined by popularity voting done on their FB and IG accounts. Winners with the most creative photos will receive P3000.
More Information
Rates:
Adults - P250.00
Kids/Students - P175.00
Business Hours:
10am-9pm from Mondays-Sundays
Contact:
Landline: (032)-234-7842
Mobile: 09177728670
Email: upsidedownworld.cebu@gmail.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/udwcebu/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/upsidedownworldcebu/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/udwcebu/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/upsidedownworldcebu/
Location:
2nd floor City Times Square 2 across ParkmallHow to Get There:
From SM City Cebu, ride a 01K jeepney going to Parkmall. Fare is 7PHP. Hop off at the Parkmall Terminal and go across to City Times Square 2.
Note: For updates in schedules and rates, I recommend you to check out their social media sites or contact them at the contact numbers noted above first.
Have you tried an Upside Down Museum before? Let me know in the comments below.
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