tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184109192715271042024-03-14T02:58:43.480+08:00my walking shoesGurlayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12786636457565228373noreply@blogger.comBlogger17125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-418410919271527104.post-14897882364839224662023-03-24T00:53:00.305+08:002023-03-24T02:26:49.062+08:00Food Trip in Binondo <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCFqTSJ-CTQMt8n2vTQdCsgSTYTL0QHvS0e3Ulg96cI0VLzz41gReJlSRWPfpH3kp-S91UlDo1fgejY6ZDbkj3dNUcX4b42fjVKHGH3EQVOxtTzCU8dGRVQh34QKi-Gb5wWzq_Aw5wdSmIKK6gjB3uR1a2vPr9hrl7cLyOLlBmuF38Ol9KdI7LnnSt/s4032/IMG_5759.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCFqTSJ-CTQMt8n2vTQdCsgSTYTL0QHvS0e3Ulg96cI0VLzz41gReJlSRWPfpH3kp-S91UlDo1fgejY6ZDbkj3dNUcX4b42fjVKHGH3EQVOxtTzCU8dGRVQh34QKi-Gb5wWzq_Aw5wdSmIKK6gjB3uR1a2vPr9hrl7cLyOLlBmuF38Ol9KdI7LnnSt/w640-h480/IMG_5759.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Welcome to Manila Chinatown. The oldest Chinatown in the world.</i></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>I was in Manila last February. A friend from the US and from France were in the country so we decided to meet up on a weekend in Tagaytay. The friend from the US, I have not seen her since 2018 and the friend from France, the last time I saw her was way before that. Another reason for me being in Manila is to watch the concert of one of my favorite bands - One Republic. I really enjoyed the concert even though I watched it alone. I met a friend too, who was also alone. I had so much fun that I didn't want the concert to end. I wanted more. And when you're in Manila, you can't pass up the opportunity to do a food trip in Binondo. </p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5rEiTofFZwxQfYz9UWg38OH8_GZY92wfI5_CCOt1IgBrVKdtROGSUnoflLY3-6E_7XrGeZbBtKJycRLo6EKG4OlGP6LZA7cMzwmTmtNzdqXBAM3ZDkd-2VKruixxThcpSmZnzMk-NO-6q9DE3bpkr0496lkS_-Yw2BB267WotwLTGrSdoE7_XITPN/s4032/81BA0C7F-0871-4844-AFA0-3C30634891D3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="BC1 gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5rEiTofFZwxQfYz9UWg38OH8_GZY92wfI5_CCOt1IgBrVKdtROGSUnoflLY3-6E_7XrGeZbBtKJycRLo6EKG4OlGP6LZA7cMzwmTmtNzdqXBAM3ZDkd-2VKruixxThcpSmZnzMk-NO-6q9DE3bpkr0496lkS_-Yw2BB267WotwLTGrSdoE7_XITPN/w640-h480/81BA0C7F-0871-4844-AFA0-3C30634891D3.jpg" title="BC1 gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>The facade of the Binondo Church.<br /><br /><br /></i></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjlwSA7VXPUyYBqUFhs2d92kZ9otxH-NRMHahfQtVHWTuHLGNyR83hHiMcpQ7zwfP30fJGehIou4jxBadOPpLtpouNzmYTNto2vxeMcl_53cirCejK3RZAI2YNvuGzbrQgZhxc98kCcdLEy4VPERTefaO44jaDxnON591KCyo4HCztIjDEPq8T3NLM/s4032/IMG_5764(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="BC2 gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjlwSA7VXPUyYBqUFhs2d92kZ9otxH-NRMHahfQtVHWTuHLGNyR83hHiMcpQ7zwfP30fJGehIou4jxBadOPpLtpouNzmYTNto2vxeMcl_53cirCejK3RZAI2YNvuGzbrQgZhxc98kCcdLEy4VPERTefaO44jaDxnON591KCyo4HCztIjDEPq8T3NLM/w480-h640/IMG_5764(1).jpg" title="BC2 gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Binondo Church is officially known as the Minor Basilica and National Shrine of Saint Lorenzo Ruiz - Parish of Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary.</i></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>For those who don't know, I actually lived and worked in Manila for about 8 years. In those years, I've been to Binondo but only to a few shops like Dong Bei Dumplings, Eng Bee Tin (the famous hopia bakery) and Serenity (I've tried their fried chicken). I have eaten in Dong Bei and brought home frozen chives dumplings. They were so good. I have tried all of Eng Bee Tin's hopia flavors and my favorite is the custard one and black mongo. My go-to flavor for hopia is black mongo. The fried chicken in Serenity is very good. I didn't realize that it was that famous then when we ate there. It was the store in the Lucky Chinatown Mall that we went to.</p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh1yl53kibf8jZK7egU7o45Xsx-pd3it17pNqA7jr_geT61LXKDzkhGKSFIh05e9zPdFEwg4VRHjMzi_J2L7dTD3zHVBUPnzkdDoCms0oVvoZVdsu5T3Ux_hv_AOMdjiAm9Zmg1Pmvi-5vddGtW23GTSfTkaq1i0nM3LTvdG-bKVzAAirL2mmCOSZ_/s4032/IMG_5771.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="LCM1 gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh1yl53kibf8jZK7egU7o45Xsx-pd3it17pNqA7jr_geT61LXKDzkhGKSFIh05e9zPdFEwg4VRHjMzi_J2L7dTD3zHVBUPnzkdDoCms0oVvoZVdsu5T3Ux_hv_AOMdjiAm9Zmg1Pmvi-5vddGtW23GTSfTkaq1i0nM3LTvdG-bKVzAAirL2mmCOSZ_/w640-h480/IMG_5771.jpg" title="LCM1 gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>The Chinese arch in Lucky Chinatown Mall.<br /><br /><br /></i></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;">So, being back in Manila, after about five years, (the last time I was there was in 2018, to attend a wedding), I actually made a list of places I need to visit but unfortunately, wasn't able to but a Binondo food trip was one of the things I could not miss. It's a must. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKi7_LaAPnuypDWmFipG-ygfhr4KcBSdhs87c4YZgnuqf92Bw-SYuSux32ju5TrZgtpymxcshc2gi1L_qa--aO-kNO_XIDDqQ_RLuPnCr1hDbFFfdW_J2d2_1bnjHkqLe26PBAehHiGJVgeMD_-X6wMrwoglIPInNwClpKC0K1y76QcqIL7kQ6eonk/s4032/IMG_5780.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img alt="LCM2 gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKi7_LaAPnuypDWmFipG-ygfhr4KcBSdhs87c4YZgnuqf92Bw-SYuSux32ju5TrZgtpymxcshc2gi1L_qa--aO-kNO_XIDDqQ_RLuPnCr1hDbFFfdW_J2d2_1bnjHkqLe26PBAehHiGJVgeMD_-X6wMrwoglIPInNwClpKC0K1y76QcqIL7kQ6eonk/w640-h480/IMG_5780.jpg" title="LCM2 gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Various lanterns in one of the walkways in Lucky Chinatown Mall. </i></td></tr></tbody></table><p><br /></p><p>We met up with a friend in Lucky Chinatown Mall around 2PM. Our first stop is <b>Wai Ying Fastfood</b>. The famous dimsum restaurant. We thought that since it was around past lunch time, there won't be a lot of people. We should be good. And lo and behold, the store was a box office hit. The line was long. The last people in line told us to go to the guard and have us listed and then wait. I think we were supposed to be the 20th to be served. We waited a bit, probably around 5 to 10 minutes and then got very hungry. Jona, the other friend, went to the store across Wai Ying and bought becho-becho. It's like a donut but a bit softer. We ate that while waiting but then realized it wasn't enough. It was way past lunch time and we were famished. We were staring to get hangry.</p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7JgTx58cZbWozMIQ-AUw-a9SS3oDfDcANM9swoFIRawst2PO_pOMbssHXnxJO-6IEtvLGrwjP-bcWn9HbyFzBtADMiia11Ia4lAsLXZdnlhr1BVRV8DxnPK68k0hqvL4HCPqzjfTdcawumcAz4uycXqKrJNu2YEisHskXYDEiqev9PNvItgVKvIlS/s4032/IMG_5791.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="WY1 gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7JgTx58cZbWozMIQ-AUw-a9SS3oDfDcANM9swoFIRawst2PO_pOMbssHXnxJO-6IEtvLGrwjP-bcWn9HbyFzBtADMiia11Ia4lAsLXZdnlhr1BVRV8DxnPK68k0hqvL4HCPqzjfTdcawumcAz4uycXqKrJNu2YEisHskXYDEiqev9PNvItgVKvIlS/w480-h640/IMG_5791.jpg" title="WY1 gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Wai Ying Fastfood, the main branch in #810 Benavidez Street.<br /><br /></i></td></tr></tbody></table><br />So, we decided to just visit the other shops and then just come back in time for our turn to be served. While we were walking, we heard one of the padyak (bicycle with side car) drivers that we should just go to the other Wai Ying branch. It's bigger and there would be no line. Well, it was a brilliant idea and that was what we did. The second store was in the same street, <b>Buenavidez</b>, but it's a bit of a walk. You will have to cross Recto Ave. We walked about 2 blocks, probably about 5 to 10 minutes. It's not too far but if you're hungry, everything seems to be a challenge, right? <div><br /><div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAyj7okMy5b_LZ1SJ-R2eMDUM6L6pES-Ja15RQ1OkejbWYU21eiywBnH3KpLW7MeduvuaTwjATnSoyOWO5i0OfC--fQC__xdB8etkyH31LPGgbImrEapHDSwdF5rKVl9G9U9GqjRxCA3pOensIWkvEUVDeN4846idBgUA6D3br2Ix8C3phaB8kmIhQ/s4032/IMG_5796.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img alt="WY2 gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAyj7okMy5b_LZ1SJ-R2eMDUM6L6pES-Ja15RQ1OkejbWYU21eiywBnH3KpLW7MeduvuaTwjATnSoyOWO5i0OfC--fQC__xdB8etkyH31LPGgbImrEapHDSwdF5rKVl9G9U9GqjRxCA3pOensIWkvEUVDeN4846idBgUA6D3br2Ix8C3phaB8kmIhQ/w480-h640/IMG_5796.jpg" title="WY2 gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>The second store. Bigger and no waiting.</i></td></tr></tbody></table><div></div><br /><div><br /></div><div>Long story short, we made it to the other store and true enough, no line and we were seated right away. We ordered wanton mami noodles since they ran out of roast duck mami. It's their bestseller. We also ordered vegetable dumplings, their famous hakaw, shark's fin dumplings, fried wanton and fried rice. We didn't finish everything. We brought home the rest of the fried wantons and the vegetable dumplings. The food were all very good, though I was not so taken by the vegetable dumplings. I loved their fried wantons. Next time, I should try their roast duck mami. It's one of their must-try dishes. We paid about PhP1,050.00 for all the things we ordered. What a treat, right? And no need to rob a bank.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_Alg5wSaebIKaGI_oCYYDDRGB_RxRbKzNvgi6eURX_AJljxrb5GsM_5N-GGZrqslQABER5H1kCS8xw5sm9GLZwoNHeBv4gCR4qdlSybwqsXT4rgleZUNxJ-Yn5CDVnU1Eww47zpfwKojipyt_aew0oPm6_UI2XLHiCYOqea2bFLJ3ZuK4xxmB-zWe/s3987/IMG_5797.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="WY3 gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="3987" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_Alg5wSaebIKaGI_oCYYDDRGB_RxRbKzNvgi6eURX_AJljxrb5GsM_5N-GGZrqslQABER5H1kCS8xw5sm9GLZwoNHeBv4gCR4qdlSybwqsXT4rgleZUNxJ-Yn5CDVnU1Eww47zpfwKojipyt_aew0oPm6_UI2XLHiCYOqea2bFLJ3ZuK4xxmB-zWe/w486-h640/IMG_5797.jpg" title="WY3 gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="486" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>A bowl of fried rice is good for 2-3 people.</i></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTvTznmBStpyBHwKkb54f_ZTTqHqjhVE17mMj-TjFtdX1BwdbCZ6l-xG2GcPuDwHFpbBjOvWynIU6puQhqzNA3mK3TsXRh3hY6FtVYk9C7eamPfHqOdBGP_BwpguKZNX_BTVJPBtfVkg6uo-MLfB3Kz0yocFD-sFQNpRuNqZbUTMbUqdpy49AdTKlZ/s3949/IMG_5798.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="WY4 gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="3949" height="490" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTvTznmBStpyBHwKkb54f_ZTTqHqjhVE17mMj-TjFtdX1BwdbCZ6l-xG2GcPuDwHFpbBjOvWynIU6puQhqzNA3mK3TsXRh3hY6FtVYk9C7eamPfHqOdBGP_BwpguKZNX_BTVJPBtfVkg6uo-MLfB3Kz0yocFD-sFQNpRuNqZbUTMbUqdpy49AdTKlZ/w640-h490/IMG_5798.jpg" title="WY4 gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>A serving of friend wantons (12 pieces) with sweet and sour sauce.<br /><br /></i></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfXQ-vDnSE5NtcivrlrH2vwaLHIq1gaWeSEOxk4MHhnyvSRdvqDb_srKhz39GjjGXL3hL3rzJFurx1jEQryavRQ-N0YPcbexBXlTcR-gPeBCazmyvdtuTkaWMTb1v-ofKAXs8Mjmc8IQ2ucyG_IKbmSjQyCGMdSsPcJGns2seLbMXlkKiMmd-zaM10/s3795/IMG_5800.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="WY5 gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="3795" height="510" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfXQ-vDnSE5NtcivrlrH2vwaLHIq1gaWeSEOxk4MHhnyvSRdvqDb_srKhz39GjjGXL3hL3rzJFurx1jEQryavRQ-N0YPcbexBXlTcR-gPeBCazmyvdtuTkaWMTb1v-ofKAXs8Mjmc8IQ2ucyG_IKbmSjQyCGMdSsPcJGns2seLbMXlkKiMmd-zaM10/w640-h510/IMG_5800.jpg" title="WY5 gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Wanton mami (beef noodles with wanton)</i></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZTZeN-77VSiacdHqG50hLMWup7fgoX1rkAgJC1RgXlT61I6CrR7e6IP2wOTRoCGUySuZ7TY4D2LXQ2SunaWNdsitlGxI6I_0zB49XW6zlrRYnb-Kmvdk3G_AoDoeSmL_85C50UzJ0W9qQONjMKCqiiiWGqIx_Ho3MuA_P80vRGiAG-2CBbeoZKRhF/s3811/IMG_5801.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="WY6 gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="3811" height="508" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZTZeN-77VSiacdHqG50hLMWup7fgoX1rkAgJC1RgXlT61I6CrR7e6IP2wOTRoCGUySuZ7TY4D2LXQ2SunaWNdsitlGxI6I_0zB49XW6zlrRYnb-Kmvdk3G_AoDoeSmL_85C50UzJ0W9qQONjMKCqiiiWGqIx_Ho3MuA_P80vRGiAG-2CBbeoZKRhF/w640-h508/IMG_5801.jpg" title="WY6 gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Wai Ying's famous hakaw with shrimps inside.<br /><br /></i></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9Wnrs7zuQTUdxkWu9jqW2bx3yInsIa3erX1bwHcP6u8fnfrSirJuR2yxh7gItXPrXtubdLoGMZyK5PCdGWQ9UmCzTue0Une9UYgl11SQzm-WOYQwvqaL5eHBrA8X0DupFTyf16vcorn6VeoRp74Qj3dDGkMhkP4KN2Py3cFaArIbhvLQr_2pWyy81/s2621/IMG_5802.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="WY7 gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="2621" data-original-width="2528" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9Wnrs7zuQTUdxkWu9jqW2bx3yInsIa3erX1bwHcP6u8fnfrSirJuR2yxh7gItXPrXtubdLoGMZyK5PCdGWQ9UmCzTue0Une9UYgl11SQzm-WOYQwvqaL5eHBrA8X0DupFTyf16vcorn6VeoRp74Qj3dDGkMhkP4KN2Py3cFaArIbhvLQr_2pWyy81/w618-h640/IMG_5802.jpg" title="WY7 gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="618" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Steamed shark's fin dumplings<br /><br /></i></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoyVuzbz7aGBIsnaFC0muF07LYyy4wQra-_y0S80k9EUsZEraufd7CpdZP8mPCw3gtxxkq2Q6rkm2ibn_JKZlS7swxtTC-lfvZysGvQELJemArQMTdA5ZpdFPcM2htkRgqXLwmo0bwJ9YDLbVN7n7azyj51falfRI-y5s0rHU3_oOyh8KVE100sTDN/s4032/IMG_5806.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="WY8 gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoyVuzbz7aGBIsnaFC0muF07LYyy4wQra-_y0S80k9EUsZEraufd7CpdZP8mPCw3gtxxkq2Q6rkm2ibn_JKZlS7swxtTC-lfvZysGvQELJemArQMTdA5ZpdFPcM2htkRgqXLwmo0bwJ9YDLbVN7n7azyj51falfRI-y5s0rHU3_oOyh8KVE100sTDN/w480-h640/IMG_5806.jpg" title="WY8 gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Vegetable dumplings - mostly made of mushroom wrapped in rice paper.</i></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhazANBQ8t-l0LAwkobtSJs1ZNCh4T5Dp0noybukwLJ2mqEELRD8LLycGUYqURGja6WKLswT_toQHkEiBB3POYqz9r3nXCyCBgVwCS3zVixIRjqs9QLCh_TR5pooj_cwp7exwyo96Wi7S-L96-4sDBNWA28093ZLeFavecEd3jkrJfnWWtmhiSTUDUZ/s4032/IMG_5808.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img alt="WY9 gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhazANBQ8t-l0LAwkobtSJs1ZNCh4T5Dp0noybukwLJ2mqEELRD8LLycGUYqURGja6WKLswT_toQHkEiBB3POYqz9r3nXCyCBgVwCS3zVixIRjqs9QLCh_TR5pooj_cwp7exwyo96Wi7S-L96-4sDBNWA28093ZLeFavecEd3jkrJfnWWtmhiSTUDUZ/w640-h480/IMG_5808.jpg" title="WY9 gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Wai Ying's menu page 1</i></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJIVI7V3AtItkmZZMDY74b0hVM2XwOAMl5RJH7NaxTJCBLD6hhQ1gqj-yquxjfw6mtgWgytb2bg1ZPSjxqqN6gNxZHEMhOpL4uQ5wKpDCZJEuIPpvH4d2WZN6rdEfWLc-XMZhP5cJP9u_YnMkhRMsiFKTeG7vkv0-AMrBxunkq8ZN5HpVYxvPOr6LJ/s4032/IMG_5807.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="WY10 gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJIVI7V3AtItkmZZMDY74b0hVM2XwOAMl5RJH7NaxTJCBLD6hhQ1gqj-yquxjfw6mtgWgytb2bg1ZPSjxqqN6gNxZHEMhOpL4uQ5wKpDCZJEuIPpvH4d2WZN6rdEfWLc-XMZhP5cJP9u_YnMkhRMsiFKTeG7vkv0-AMrBxunkq8ZN5HpVYxvPOr6LJ/w640-h480/IMG_5807.jpg" title="WY10 gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Wai Ying's menu page 2</i></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><p>Our next stop is dessert. After that very scrumptious lunch, we needed something sweet. So, off we go to <b>Eng Bee Tin</b>. Merly was craving their ube milk tea. We went back to the main street in Binondo which is Ongpin. The Eng Bee Tin store I knew was the old one. It's now <b>Chuan Kee</b> restaurant which had a very long line of diners also. The new Eng Bee Tin store is the new and big building right next to it. The line was a bit long also but moving. We ordered the combo which is the ube milk tea with the egg tart for PhP140.00. The egg was good. Sadly, the milk tea wasn't so cold. There was no ice on it too. There were a lot of pearl sinkers though, if you love pearls. We would have enjoyed it much if it were ice-cold since the day was scorching hot. </p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWfDfukFeIRpKFIgXMdehPq10oxpSp1U1OQhl7z0-IkrMFAQTCnyM02WlgT1Wef_-1Ik_CPhNOqeXJM5kxtpB0IPKEsr8QPbNusOHdzNOGjit4pUxEaupTXupbyrEKsXrihOTXck_Aa8TN1ylOpGONOkAUI83-XNjuyycDW6d96qVuamOXXbDgb1gx/s4032/IMG_5817.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img alt="EBT1 gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWfDfukFeIRpKFIgXMdehPq10oxpSp1U1OQhl7z0-IkrMFAQTCnyM02WlgT1Wef_-1Ik_CPhNOqeXJM5kxtpB0IPKEsr8QPbNusOHdzNOGjit4pUxEaupTXupbyrEKsXrihOTXck_Aa8TN1ylOpGONOkAUI83-XNjuyycDW6d96qVuamOXXbDgb1gx/w480-h640/IMG_5817.jpg" title="EBT1 gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>The old Eng Bee Tin store, now Chuan Kee fast food. The Eng Bee Tin sign is still there.</i></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinfSFYSiY1NDveUjpXSdLlyyNsl9zLjPLg79HvTl9Cn85Z21fvz7Qry2kjAsyVx6JXlKKGv8ehc1G76ceHoLxHIeT3wVJYGl2A1hYcubocC6q3DWl5Dmv5R_hw6F9ZBck3jfpwiElRhEplAHcfMru16pz9xoC13jXWLFLZxj_7pMO4s55v8KYQF91g/s4032/IMG_5813.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="EBT2 gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinfSFYSiY1NDveUjpXSdLlyyNsl9zLjPLg79HvTl9Cn85Z21fvz7Qry2kjAsyVx6JXlKKGv8ehc1G76ceHoLxHIeT3wVJYGl2A1hYcubocC6q3DWl5Dmv5R_hw6F9ZBck3jfpwiElRhEplAHcfMru16pz9xoC13jXWLFLZxj_7pMO4s55v8KYQF91g/w640-h480/IMG_5813.jpg" title="EBT2 gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Long lines are a common sight.</i></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv5hVhsmRyuE7dl11RKt_GP7Ta53ps31G4ufztVMumZLL1CwHGJKqe8aa-2jMwmKvnO9EJ724w7WQsT4HyiefJNAfhW8nUsCUIzK9n7I8FjyFuBYz4Ayb2lB1s6NaVWus-gdtxguPg_iL7xCFhG0eRIIQoVQVLKAkFYyZqpCJjSlGz14v3SQfLBXEN/s4032/IMG_5820.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="EBT3 gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv5hVhsmRyuE7dl11RKt_GP7Ta53ps31G4ufztVMumZLL1CwHGJKqe8aa-2jMwmKvnO9EJ724w7WQsT4HyiefJNAfhW8nUsCUIzK9n7I8FjyFuBYz4Ayb2lB1s6NaVWus-gdtxguPg_iL7xCFhG0eRIIQoVQVLKAkFYyZqpCJjSlGz14v3SQfLBXEN/w480-h640/IMG_5820.jpg" title="EBT3 gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>The new and improved Eng Bee Tin store. More convenient shopping.</i></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu-a0twcFcAa39efUaVBxNg6EaGCfPQGbpuKNldUw5UCXCrYFf4Q1o4UvgCzUsnEBQsWqKUvfBA17qIN5d2OCknXgZh8wY7q3ONt2LHZQUM7aS6F0A-CdxMIjSQmQMp2GXFFgBxgwz0HrPIHEHEkrzI4HpgglFQQqlHU1H7aWWNsjBbnmHBKm05WMF/s4032/IMG_5821(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="EBT4 gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu-a0twcFcAa39efUaVBxNg6EaGCfPQGbpuKNldUw5UCXCrYFf4Q1o4UvgCzUsnEBQsWqKUvfBA17qIN5d2OCknXgZh8wY7q3ONt2LHZQUM7aS6F0A-CdxMIjSQmQMp2GXFFgBxgwz0HrPIHEHEkrzI4HpgglFQQqlHU1H7aWWNsjBbnmHBKm05WMF/w480-h640/IMG_5821(1).jpg" title="EBT4 gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Take out counter for milk teas, siopao and egg tarts.</i></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ92_7NTLIphGjIPJk4eiDHRGXanMohhLjradZljBC_9dYixwMHRGgMiFPOUV8_7ZD7p6by1ydLXnumItup3usD87lgvuKIdAaCyvhTrVYwFUsK6xszApTb74Ts-mn8u_16sK_0bf8bWkZdxLXnUfn6uPPESlIvogNBgF1iIVQXlasbP4OU9cR6qJd/s4032/IMG_5833(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="EBT5 gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ92_7NTLIphGjIPJk4eiDHRGXanMohhLjradZljBC_9dYixwMHRGgMiFPOUV8_7ZD7p6by1ydLXnumItup3usD87lgvuKIdAaCyvhTrVYwFUsK6xszApTb74Ts-mn8u_16sK_0bf8bWkZdxLXnUfn6uPPESlIvogNBgF1iIVQXlasbP4OU9cR6qJd/w480-h640/IMG_5833(1).jpg" title="EBT5 gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Egg tarts and siopao, anyone?</i></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY78s_a_mUMJKfHjjyrw_Td9-tehLN6YjkiB0ZJf0_2W1PaXb-TRIwtshnzUZjxrwU_SsitBA5D1E1TKp41FJh0HRQrBe_fwV5gntKTwXi8cMUIQfSgSXGtUwtvhVegwLie_IwD4TaLoyAn6rCFpH3J2PfLNoPEdbMAjGY4ZgxsS-1FwmUbPXONB1A/s4032/IMG_5853(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img alt="EBT egg tart gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="2283" data-original-width="4032" height="362" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY78s_a_mUMJKfHjjyrw_Td9-tehLN6YjkiB0ZJf0_2W1PaXb-TRIwtshnzUZjxrwU_SsitBA5D1E1TKp41FJh0HRQrBe_fwV5gntKTwXi8cMUIQfSgSXGtUwtvhVegwLie_IwD4TaLoyAn6rCFpH3J2PfLNoPEdbMAjGY4ZgxsS-1FwmUbPXONB1A/w640-h362/IMG_5853(1).jpg" title="EBT egg tart gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Egg tart, sweetheart?</i></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7Ncy6iClb_0Q_Pg6SjKPP18430r6216rFtJSsgp3Www2Fl_0KlVXGkGUZ_A_UEV9y6yxwDLBdSRtvsrKymNT-eGbZUcesHaA-q6uQ2N9euy6mJQRqLsG7NKfkwp_mkUvXSXGIT38Q6ScuDCt1GWMvemjKsgc4MCB74YwJfT0vUovr-xejHofhhSpz/s4032/IMG_5834(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="EBT6 gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7Ncy6iClb_0Q_Pg6SjKPP18430r6216rFtJSsgp3Www2Fl_0KlVXGkGUZ_A_UEV9y6yxwDLBdSRtvsrKymNT-eGbZUcesHaA-q6uQ2N9euy6mJQRqLsG7NKfkwp_mkUvXSXGIT38Q6ScuDCt1GWMvemjKsgc4MCB74YwJfT0vUovr-xejHofhhSpz/w480-h640/IMG_5834(1).jpg" title="EBT6 gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Our drinks are ready. The adventure continues.<br /></i><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>With our drinks in hand, we went off to search for the lumpia store - <b>Puo Hing Lumpia</b>. It's actually right around a very small street from Eng Bee Tin which is <b>Carvajal</b>. We got lost trying to find their store and had to backtrack our steps. We then realized that it was just very near Eng Bee Tin, like about 2 minutes walk. We ordered our lumpia to-go and in separate bags. They don't have dine in. Each lumpia is for PhP95.00. No long lines when we were there and they serve you very fast also. We ate the lumpia for dinner when we got home. It was so-so. I have tasted a better tasting one. Or it could be that the lumpia should be eaten while it's hot, when it's freshly-made. </p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFMpxcYZlYJMbbPMcgBXXevYiSeEjMvz_UEr5by_UXFIfwwRoqFp74xS8nZR9nMOuKotCypIq8Jt9ut7me7KVCYU_kZretrWy-1uWP0ERBAn9Wdpcw_WeY4dAIQlalYxVZ42LS8rn7ONEscK2GMhqjAIdLrjW5J2v4otQ0IeMOvG-eebhUfCR70W-Z/s4032/IMG_5836.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="PHL 1 gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFMpxcYZlYJMbbPMcgBXXevYiSeEjMvz_UEr5by_UXFIfwwRoqFp74xS8nZR9nMOuKotCypIq8Jt9ut7me7KVCYU_kZretrWy-1uWP0ERBAn9Wdpcw_WeY4dAIQlalYxVZ42LS8rn7ONEscK2GMhqjAIdLrjW5J2v4otQ0IeMOvG-eebhUfCR70W-Z/w480-h640/IMG_5836.jpg" title="PHL 1 gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Some of the store staff preparing the lumpia.</i></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOgSiZZC_vfA4rsfbQM-PnKY_Bn03WvbS9gMlJAo75gx3qL9Z8T40vKWej31BjWzQkHapALMQk4onModucAFLpIvqBrmVu4Rk88F8ZAk6B6PotgzS3x_hsViLuCaZ5BlR4j-Lz1vXsVe4E1QFVlFoEEOUFysW21i7IgtR-7kO_TYVKMvv3JtSiD1lj/s3904/IMG_5837.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="PHL 2 gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="3904" height="496" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOgSiZZC_vfA4rsfbQM-PnKY_Bn03WvbS9gMlJAo75gx3qL9Z8T40vKWej31BjWzQkHapALMQk4onModucAFLpIvqBrmVu4Rk88F8ZAk6B6PotgzS3x_hsViLuCaZ5BlR4j-Lz1vXsVe4E1QFVlFoEEOUFysW21i7IgtR-7kO_TYVKMvv3JtSiD1lj/w640-h496/IMG_5837.jpg" title="PHL 2 gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Three lumpia to-go, please.<br /><br /></i></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn0MKW8v1WN0IS5CUW065EhAXgdmp79PoiNLfuTc2MFwAUSCWkoLYaZE6bfrH1Qp0bPQRI46CG1NHoZhmSwl2adcF_7mn68G8ujrd8A52of8-1j_ruxxhbPoE0YSVc0OVN-4B15ewiTfBgTJI27zV5R4gewEmUJmyVARSv035hRT6juQg90DYWdHjt/s4032/IMG_5855(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="PHL 3 gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn0MKW8v1WN0IS5CUW065EhAXgdmp79PoiNLfuTc2MFwAUSCWkoLYaZE6bfrH1Qp0bPQRI46CG1NHoZhmSwl2adcF_7mn68G8ujrd8A52of8-1j_ruxxhbPoE0YSVc0OVN-4B15ewiTfBgTJI27zV5R4gewEmUJmyVARSv035hRT6juQg90DYWdHjt/w640-h480/IMG_5855(1).jpg" title="PHL 3 gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Dig in!</i></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd9ZBkY75S4tOrJfGrC88jhd7wmTyWqJ_Qn_nTCFO1jlfUR1z3yQCfYSFLpTCOXPXkMpokiZvY2iF-GI-96NBfL1kYNuQPOASaouimyr8fDbaa5CYnad0X-XIL69amIic2IlplXG0XDWJII3pb4ogeCLL53HZl5XvpPZdwPuvL5pFVD2l6uq3WpHec/s4013/IMG_5856(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="PHL 4 gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="3010" data-original-width="4013" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd9ZBkY75S4tOrJfGrC88jhd7wmTyWqJ_Qn_nTCFO1jlfUR1z3yQCfYSFLpTCOXPXkMpokiZvY2iF-GI-96NBfL1kYNuQPOASaouimyr8fDbaa5CYnad0X-XIL69amIic2IlplXG0XDWJII3pb4ogeCLL53HZl5XvpPZdwPuvL5pFVD2l6uq3WpHec/w640-h480/IMG_5856(1).jpg" title="PHL 4 gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>All vegetables inside and it comes with a sweet sauce.</i></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>The next store we went to was the one selling fried siopao - <b>The Original Shanghai Fried Siopao</b> which is also on <b>Ongpin Street</b>. So, from Eng Bee Tin, with the Binondo Church behind you, you just walk straight about two or three blocks. It's right after the bridge. You can't miss it, with it's very visible sign and a lot of people lining up. Yes, you should bring a lot of patience with you. Almost all stores have long queues and it was a long weekend when we were there also, so there was a crowd. We lined up again for the fried siopao. Only take out orders. They were very quick in packing the orders also. The lady would take your money and the guy would pack the fried siopao. We ate it for dinner and breakfast. A fried siopao is PhP35.00. We ordered 10 pieces - I got four, Merly got three and Jona got three also. We ate it for dinner and for breakfast. It was so good. I thought it would be fried all over but the top is still like the regular siopao and the bottom is where you will see that it was fried. I would love to go eat this again whenever I am in Binondo.</p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWEsaHkDR5E0gRQHp5teS4lR-FpiXPbMH01p7CzWums1xiWq3_KZjgs0FylASJ64Sv-99nfQPH86qbYkaQEK29OCZyhknrdK7QdtW_IEDbt0v7ztqSv3983wxSyTWgmZtoNo8URjL7NNCw93cLsVMGqfdD0C07a_us_0QZF2qVQqWYjf0DGfPp-3Li/s4032/IMG_5841.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img alt="TOSFS 1 gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWEsaHkDR5E0gRQHp5teS4lR-FpiXPbMH01p7CzWums1xiWq3_KZjgs0FylASJ64Sv-99nfQPH86qbYkaQEK29OCZyhknrdK7QdtW_IEDbt0v7ztqSv3983wxSyTWgmZtoNo8URjL7NNCw93cLsVMGqfdD0C07a_us_0QZF2qVQqWYjf0DGfPp-3Li/w480-h640/IMG_5841.jpg" title="TOSFS 1 gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Welcome to The Original Shanghai Fried Siopao.</i></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p></p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJiLPkxJNteosELHM8hvFuKRb91UjHME1Hc8hU3M3x3bXkewzckXan3EcPd4FVL_0XaGWWhpME2fj-IrcjiWBD2UQEbd3wzQ9PFqoj6_CcvN2b5Pj5-8faqcijaP10Gr1qwv3DO4V94vdijJhzFH8x8bVKhYEx37959ktqeO0j49zVFhb9XDRwmZPL/s4032/IMG_5842.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img alt="TOSFS 2 gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJiLPkxJNteosELHM8hvFuKRb91UjHME1Hc8hU3M3x3bXkewzckXan3EcPd4FVL_0XaGWWhpME2fj-IrcjiWBD2UQEbd3wzQ9PFqoj6_CcvN2b5Pj5-8faqcijaP10Gr1qwv3DO4V94vdijJhzFH8x8bVKhYEx37959ktqeO0j49zVFhb9XDRwmZPL/w480-h640/IMG_5842.jpg" title="TOSFS 2 gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Fried siopao it is!</i></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p></p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTxVQVgbFXnLyHuI0rA6ypy9XbvVlwNtlCnQVXU1CQuLZ7GsN7DBO30r4DCGBgNgi9Pc8_wIV3vEtcwgnmeoEBvQPcnm8QIVd-G3qer0vEI0gT_OKlDcwB5MhQ8eSq7N08c8ojjxysT4rsDDrZFcmbsZXPyXt_YYWeVYZ0oDcTJ0tMWHZhiotZ0f8Q/s4032/IMG_5843.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img alt="TOSFS 3 gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTxVQVgbFXnLyHuI0rA6ypy9XbvVlwNtlCnQVXU1CQuLZ7GsN7DBO30r4DCGBgNgi9Pc8_wIV3vEtcwgnmeoEBvQPcnm8QIVd-G3qer0vEI0gT_OKlDcwB5MhQ8eSq7N08c8ojjxysT4rsDDrZFcmbsZXPyXt_YYWeVYZ0oDcTJ0tMWHZhiotZ0f8Q/w480-h640/IMG_5843.jpg" title="TOSFS 3 gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Hang on, you're almost there (talking to myself while waiting in line).</i></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2Lnt84DJ2rNvmxt7oVnnlWJuEuDCS4TMjshHvtBX4EnfAQg0kYykgic7AUl4nyZKvv5I3W_Xz8qAoeQjxPfWUp0yUb_0AmxfeiMrElYZcXjjXc_V95-vRrNyWjLj0a9fkFZ8qZabDgqXUWq-lR4W2cqlLLZuiSJQYvcmF1Hnkobrk2GVabu7fLvNw/s4032/IMG_5854.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img alt="TOSFS siopao gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2Lnt84DJ2rNvmxt7oVnnlWJuEuDCS4TMjshHvtBX4EnfAQg0kYykgic7AUl4nyZKvv5I3W_Xz8qAoeQjxPfWUp0yUb_0AmxfeiMrElYZcXjjXc_V95-vRrNyWjLj0a9fkFZ8qZabDgqXUWq-lR4W2cqlLLZuiSJQYvcmF1Hnkobrk2GVabu7fLvNw/w640-h480/IMG_5854.jpg" title="TOSFS siopao gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Fried siopao!</i></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><p>The last stop is <b>Dong Bei Dumplings</b>. It's in <b>Yuchengco Street</b>. It's right next to the shortcut going to Lucky Chinatown Mall. The line was long also. A lot of people were waiting. Some were sitting on the sidewalk. The store was preparing the orders and they were not sure if they have enough stock to accommodate all those customers waiting. They will have to see by 5:30PM or 6:00PM. We couldn't wait and it was not a sure thing so we decided to just skip it. Anyway, I've tried their dumplings already so we'll live. We won't be missing out. It was bearable.</p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUwHXOBnkmYxN9cYPXREf2K2_fOquOkTyeaGZf7b6vbiRienlPgehenVWpwD-JU13J2Uq4HGixoxmbnKQo7J22KxWuv2RpWJassDy4Zh9QEM-0jJX_LNqpsFbH6JD2ruK_2Yv9wQb6a0PAMv3mg49WAWc3U6vJLEn7W9_MXL0oVx8mBmrZo2JDjcQb/s3657/IMG_5845.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="3657" height="530" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUwHXOBnkmYxN9cYPXREf2K2_fOquOkTyeaGZf7b6vbiRienlPgehenVWpwD-JU13J2Uq4HGixoxmbnKQo7J22KxWuv2RpWJassDy4Zh9QEM-0jJX_LNqpsFbH6JD2ruK_2Yv9wQb6a0PAMv3mg49WAWc3U6vJLEn7W9_MXL0oVx8mBmrZo2JDjcQb/w640-h530/IMG_5845.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Dong Bei Dumplings store. Box office again.<br /><br /></i></td></tr></tbody></table><p>We actually passed by Dong Bei earlier from Lucky Chinatown Mall going to Wai Ying but we decided to just save it for last since it's on the way back to Lucky Chinatown Mall where we were parked and that decision proved to be a dud. But no worries, if we have not tried it before then it would have been a bummer. I was a little disappointed since I planned to take home to Cebu the dumplings as pasalubong but some plans just don't work out. So, we walked back to the mall a little dejected but looking forward to eat the rest of our loot. We yet have to try the lumpia, the siopao and the egg tart. </p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipKSndJliBOkvrAYixDzhIMllMRxCzYNgifp4mwfWtg8J5iO6Lju-fNTnxh3VeLrofbjLuo-a_yvv69PZ-E4CjrALoCgOM2HKPmTklHOSibG-m4nxJuIECce7yCe3xl1m15l4YigNjJKGSq2BuCTllTXLLCj4HMgp6Aejnt2-1ZV8j4I1rtFijK4yJ/s4032/IMG_5788(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="LCM WY gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipKSndJliBOkvrAYixDzhIMllMRxCzYNgifp4mwfWtg8J5iO6Lju-fNTnxh3VeLrofbjLuo-a_yvv69PZ-E4CjrALoCgOM2HKPmTklHOSibG-m4nxJuIECce7yCe3xl1m15l4YigNjJKGSq2BuCTllTXLLCj4HMgp6Aejnt2-1ZV8j4I1rtFijK4yJ/w640-h480/IMG_5788(1).jpg" title="LCM WY gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Wai Ying kiosk in Lucky Chinatown Mall</i></td></tr></tbody></table><p><br /></p><p>In the Lucky Chinatown Mall, there were a lot of kiosks also and Wai Ying has one there too. So, we also brought home more dumplings. And since the Dong Bei dumplings didn't pan out, I decided to just buy Eng Bee Tin hopia. They had new flavors I haven't tried so I bought that. A box of pork floss hopia and another box of the brownies one. A box is PhP270.00 with twelve individually packed hopia inside. I liked the brownie one better. I know, I'm partial to chocolate. The pork floss was just okay. </p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlIJjwb0nm5Tmf7qpMTisYl2-lY6qPMdjTT4soLlZHYRd5-oEyP3OVwMiMaLmUdf4VL-q4frceBplMvqqlx4GZHcsJZb7SViY1iy9E69TAunD15QLjn3H29nqinAeeDsRky5aoHMERWxjQL5ciQCwVLdrJD4WmuNZGVp3DwnCLmSytcyNiEPFVNuts/s4032/IMG_5888.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="EBT hopia gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlIJjwb0nm5Tmf7qpMTisYl2-lY6qPMdjTT4soLlZHYRd5-oEyP3OVwMiMaLmUdf4VL-q4frceBplMvqqlx4GZHcsJZb7SViY1iy9E69TAunD15QLjn3H29nqinAeeDsRky5aoHMERWxjQL5ciQCwVLdrJD4WmuNZGVp3DwnCLmSytcyNiEPFVNuts/w640-h480/IMG_5888.jpg" title="EBT hopia gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Golden pork floss hopia and brownie hopia. Hopia you will like it.<br /><br /></i></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHAf55xim_AWCCZ-N0ERSkVqc57Kp0gmm7QLYj_V4xglhBLe6YPgCep4S1a_WMhCSUMaGlhmb5A29o25TBEJlgHHCUlpqiekLWoY-4yy-P-IzzBD-gl5Ak-q_wojrTWnoDoamMH4ApM4Y1JdbPdVCEcrqQ2k0GYMJDky7VGY1t90JSDHYZdFOv79sh/s3923/IMG_5889.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="EBT hopia2 gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="2738" data-original-width="3923" height="446" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHAf55xim_AWCCZ-N0ERSkVqc57Kp0gmm7QLYj_V4xglhBLe6YPgCep4S1a_WMhCSUMaGlhmb5A29o25TBEJlgHHCUlpqiekLWoY-4yy-P-IzzBD-gl5Ak-q_wojrTWnoDoamMH4ApM4Y1JdbPdVCEcrqQ2k0GYMJDky7VGY1t90JSDHYZdFOv79sh/w640-h446/IMG_5889.jpg" title="EBT hopia2 gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Each box contains 12 pieces of each kind.</i></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>The next day was my flight back to Cebu. I did enjoy our food trip in Binondo. Aside from the cardio exercise from all the walking, it was good to be out and about and seeing other people doing the same thing. It was good to see tourists and locals alike enjoying this little strip of food heaven without having to spend much. All in all, I think we spent about PhP500.00 each, way below PhP1,000.00 which is very good considering the prices of everything nowadays. Food trip in Binondo was a total success and thanks to Merly and Jona. I would definitely go back there when I am in Manila the next time and also do a tour of Intramuros. Of course, there's food too. Food is life.</p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbKGO1Hd1K0GwlzIvmjB4yy9zRICBIFuA1JonYyWzMlfWuX6fA1U_LYaD3imiH3LVHO-JPAPZzw38q0_GlePRJDwdJTuH-g8jdGS52V8tHOmn0Judwly1pO_OQVmHIsUh0hoiB-4I64TQlWsy-YjgbOlQopcXvBuUaQf-OwgZ03Ogtfn2Uxz8xR-kL/s3882/IMG_5861(2).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="dimsum buffet gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="3882" height="498" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbKGO1Hd1K0GwlzIvmjB4yy9zRICBIFuA1JonYyWzMlfWuX6fA1U_LYaD3imiH3LVHO-JPAPZzw38q0_GlePRJDwdJTuH-g8jdGS52V8tHOmn0Judwly1pO_OQVmHIsUh0hoiB-4I64TQlWsy-YjgbOlQopcXvBuUaQf-OwgZ03Ogtfn2Uxz8xR-kL/w640-h498/IMG_5861(2).jpg" title="dimsum buffet gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Dimsum buffet for breakfast. Yum!</i></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><h4 style="text-align: center;"><i><br />Thank you again, Merly and Jona for accompanying me in this food adventure.</i></h4><div><i style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></i></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSjTJCHfuqYnNv2-BHTOVO5Jbk6grD3bwf0TgOoETm1QWhHsTPTi0O6CkKSRFW2HkIeuujPRTDqAZ1blgtGL3nhxddGTpxp4HM6l01lNMJQJj5Xh5TWc1R9Qt31k0QCWlD75J96GEzUAh8r7JhS9YFBZnTNtoiAY6mJn6Yky4Se_itXa02BPxsHx--/s3529/IMG_5803.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="WY GMJ gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="2673" data-original-width="3529" height="484" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSjTJCHfuqYnNv2-BHTOVO5Jbk6grD3bwf0TgOoETm1QWhHsTPTi0O6CkKSRFW2HkIeuujPRTDqAZ1blgtGL3nhxddGTpxp4HM6l01lNMJQJj5Xh5TWc1R9Qt31k0QCWlD75J96GEzUAh8r7JhS9YFBZnTNtoiAY6mJn6Yky4Se_itXa02BPxsHx--/w640-h484/IMG_5803.jpg" title="WY GMJ gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>From right: Gurlayas, Merly and Jona at Wai Ying.</i></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-4jF8pFlXQp_h_x_A0Uow-pN3pi19scNPyY3X79KWyAdHJGWePS8wblpHnLN3gVacgD95tNdLMw8ksnKTPCFZKi3bIH7cHSWPW_quUPL8bFrDaLDjUL6vSISF_2gSfT6gkkT59D-cRJYBsXRW2i1iJGAwdcmjQ8X4GzaLdlcekFbYUalHxBrL0f4_/s3923/IMG_5831.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="EBT JMG gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="3923" height="494" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-4jF8pFlXQp_h_x_A0Uow-pN3pi19scNPyY3X79KWyAdHJGWePS8wblpHnLN3gVacgD95tNdLMw8ksnKTPCFZKi3bIH7cHSWPW_quUPL8bFrDaLDjUL6vSISF_2gSfT6gkkT59D-cRJYBsXRW2i1iJGAwdcmjQ8X4GzaLdlcekFbYUalHxBrL0f4_/w640-h494/IMG_5831.jpg" title="EBT JMG gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>While waiting in line to order ube milk tea at Eng Bee Tin. </i></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><h4 style="text-align: center;"><i>Till the next adventures of Gurlayas and My Walking Shoes. Busdik Tiyan!</i></h4><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><br /></div>Gurlayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12786636457565228373noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-418410919271527104.post-71559513683819816352020-04-10T22:30:00.017+08:002020-04-10T23:07:05.913+08:00Singapore: The Road Less Traveled (Part 2) - Pulau Ubin<div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">The year was 2017. We went to Singapore to try our luck. While waiting for calls for interviews, we explored Singapore. A friend came with us to spend a few days in Singapore. On one of those days, we decided to try going places that are not often visited by tourists and since we were also tight on the budget. Yes, the road less traveled as I call it. So, I checked on some blogs and found a list. On the list was Pulau Ubin. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RNwus5UR9Is/XpBUnY8a3mI/AAAAAAAAQzc/YScnVPFMNuQcvFI-q3i09JXEGRJK2jZBgCK4BGAsYHg/DSC09062a.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="my walking shoes: pulau ubin" border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1920" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RNwus5UR9Is/XpBUnY8a3mI/AAAAAAAAQzc/YScnVPFMNuQcvFI-q3i09JXEGRJK2jZBgCK4BGAsYHg/DSC09062a.jpg" title="my walking shoes: pulau ubin" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><font face="courier">Ferry terminal at Pulau Ubin</font><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><font face="verdana"><br /></font></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><font face="verdana">Pulau Ubin is an island northeast of Singapore. There's a bike trail, a mangrove walk where birds could be seen, an observation tower and a looped boardwalk. It is known to be the last rural area in Singapore. </font><span style="font-family: verdana;"> The island made us curious and going there didn't need us to rob a bank. We only needed to ride a ferry boat for 3.00 SGD and there is no entrance fee. S</span><span style="font-family: verdana;">o off we go.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DxSv7meJvws/XpBT__YM1KI/AAAAAAAAQzI/11UhYpJSI8o5ivY0fg4UK7NnKS4y578bwCK4BGAsYHg/DSC09055a.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="my walking shoes: pulau ubin" border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1920" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DxSv7meJvws/XpBT__YM1KI/AAAAAAAAQzI/11UhYpJSI8o5ivY0fg4UK7NnKS4y578bwCK4BGAsYHg/DSC09055a.jpg" title="my walking shoes: pulau ubin" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><font face="courier">One of the ferry bumpboats going to Pulau Ubin.</font><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><h3><font face="verdana">How to get there?</font></h3><div><font face="verdana"><br /></font></div><div><font face="verdana">To get to Pulau Ubin, you need to check what's the best route for you, depending on where you are staying in Singapore. For us, we stayed at Bishan, so we have to take an MRT to Tampines East station. From there, we need to get on a bus going to Changi Village </font><span style="font-family: verdana;">Terminal where the ferry for Pulau Ubin is. The ferry plies from Changi Point to Pulau Ubin every 15 minutes. The bumpboat ride from Changi Point ferry terminal is about 15 minutes to Pulau Ubin.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LqxhhKtWQfg/XpBXWvVq-_I/AAAAAAAAQz8/r_e30aeMPHo9cMgZi4VO9AqySqWZYZfVgCK4BGAsYHg/DSC09078.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="my walking shoes: Pulau Ubin" border="0" data-original-height="1920" data-original-width="1440" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LqxhhKtWQfg/XpBXWvVq-_I/AAAAAAAAQz8/r_e30aeMPHo9cMgZi4VO9AqySqWZYZfVgCK4BGAsYHg/DSC09078.jpg" title="my walking shoes: Pulau Ubin" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><font face="verdana">You will know that you have reached the island because you will see the ferry terminal with the "Welcome to Pulau Ubin" sign on it. As you get off the ferry, you will see bicycles lined up near the boardwalk. This is the method of transport here. The easiest and fastest way to get around the island. Past that would be an arch with another welcome sign which is the main gateway to the island itself.</font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><font face="verdana"><br /></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6Q0n-Rk3faU/XpByDSdeY_I/AAAAAAAAQ9Y/jXh6W0vrRRswREMkcUS545bYnrY53SRXgCK4BGAsYHg/DSC09064n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="my walking shoes: Pulau Ubin" border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1920" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6Q0n-Rk3faU/XpByDSdeY_I/AAAAAAAAQ9Y/jXh6W0vrRRswREMkcUS545bYnrY53SRXgCK4BGAsYHg/DSC09064n.jpg" title="my walking shoes: Pulau Ubin" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div></div><h3 style="text-align: justify;"><font face="verdana">Let's go biking!</font></h3><div><font face="verdana"><br /></font></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><font face="verdana">Pulau Ubin is just a small island, about 10 </font><span style="font-family: verdana;">square kilometers in terms of area. Walking would be a bit of a challenge so we decided to rent bikes. A bike is for 10.00 SGD. I can't remember if it was just for an hour but I think we stayed for more than an hour on the island and we used the bike for the whole time there. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UscAKCWVt20/XpBamnM1rrI/AAAAAAAAQ1E/zIIjO49-QIg0DdnqmtLsvuy90g2jtahYQCK4BGAsYHg/DSC09082b.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="my walking shoes: Pulau Ubin" border="0" data-original-height="1920" data-original-width="1440" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UscAKCWVt20/XpBamnM1rrI/AAAAAAAAQ1E/zIIjO49-QIg0DdnqmtLsvuy90g2jtahYQCK4BGAsYHg/DSC09082b.jpg" title="my walking shoes: Pulau Ubin" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><font face="verdana"><br /></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><font face="verdana">The first part of the trail is an asphalted road and there's a section there where there are a lot of wild monkeys. Emphasis on the word "wild." Most of them would stay on the trees but during our visit, there was this one brave monkey who followed us. When it came for us to stop and take pictures, it decided that it was his golden opportunity to try to take my friend's bag that was sitting on the basket in front of her bike. It tried to take the bag and my friend was screaming for me to help her. I, on the other hand, didn't know what to do. I was not sure how to shoo away the monkey because touching these wild animals was definitely a no-no. Fortunately, the bag was too heavy for him so he let it go and run off to the trees. We had quite a trauma after that experience. Wild monkeys are definitely not to be trifled with. We didn't even know what made him want to take the bag. We had food but it was in my bag and they were dates. Do they eat dates? I don't think my friend had any food in her bag. Probably, the monkey wanted a branded bag too. My friend's bag was an authentic MK.</font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tkCYgrBX13g/XpBcvqKreMI/AAAAAAAAQ1k/ddrjsSQpnDY2raHPMkIvp8nSaANQuZJyACK4BGAsYHg/DSC09094b.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="my walking shoes: Pulau Ubin" border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1920" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tkCYgrBX13g/XpBcvqKreMI/AAAAAAAAQ1k/ddrjsSQpnDY2raHPMkIvp8nSaANQuZJyACK4BGAsYHg/DSC09094b.jpg" title="my walking shoes: Pulau Ubin" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><font face="verdana">Once the monkey ran off, we pedaled our bikes like our lives depended on it to get away as far as possible from that monkey-ridden place. Once we were sure we were far from them, we relaxed. The path following that was unpaved and a bit muddy because it rained a day before. The trail is both uphill and downhill. There were times we had to get off our bike because the path was too steep. It had been years since I had been on a bike and I don't think we were up for that literal mountain bike ride. We thought the way was going to be just a plain paved road all the way but it wasn't. </font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pphLyu_tPjM/XpBc7-VDP4I/AAAAAAAAQ1w/90U2F4n0A0U1wyKnBbNhKMYQfL4AsZspQCK4BGAsYHg/DSC09097a.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="my walking shoes: Pulau Ubin" border="0" data-original-height="1920" data-original-width="1440" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pphLyu_tPjM/XpBc7-VDP4I/AAAAAAAAQ1w/90U2F4n0A0U1wyKnBbNhKMYQfL4AsZspQCK4BGAsYHg/DSC09097a.jpg" title="my walking shoes: Pulau Ubin" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">After the land of the monkeys (because they literally own that territory), we reached the Chek Jewa Wetlands. This is the part of the island where there are mangroves and there's a boardwalk. This is also the part where you can see birds if you are lucky. We didn't get to see any birds. From here onward, you would have to walk. You would have to leave your bike here. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">While we were parking our bikes, we met some other tourists and there were also some stray monkeys. One guy mentioned that his mom's shades got stolen by one of the monkeys when they last visited. We then told them about our experience. Yes, bad monkeys.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fpSZsOlMcWA/XpBfjER7FNI/AAAAAAAAQ2s/c82lXTEZSlk8YOqm6A5hE94wfAXBBgmDQCK4BGAsYHg/DSC09209a.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="my walking shoes: Pulau Ubin" border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1920" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fpSZsOlMcWA/XpBfjER7FNI/AAAAAAAAQ2s/c82lXTEZSlk8YOqm6A5hE94wfAXBBgmDQCK4BGAsYHg/DSC09209a.jpg" title="my walking shoes: Pulau Ubin" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><font face="verdana">From here, you can take three different routes to get to the rest of the wetlands. One way is to go through the boardwalk in front of House #1. There's a Tudor style house at the back of the visitor center. Unfortunately, we didn't take that route. We opted for the second one which took us to this vantage point looking over that boardwalk and the water. </font><span style="font-family: verdana;">We didn't know there was something else to see there. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">After our circuit of the island, my friend asked the bike shop owner about that house we saw on the map or on one of the pictures we saw on the blog. He told us it was right at that first boardwalk which we didn't go to. He told us we can go back and see it but we were a bit exhausted. Not to think, we would have to go through the land of the monkeys again. I don't think my heart can take two close encounters with them in one day.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><font face="verdana"><br /></font></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-U5hJfl9tw08/XpBd8-fMGmI/AAAAAAAAQ2Q/DG5bi8fhxjotBxIMz09w9AUIpfW16zvlgCK4BGAsYHg/DSC09106.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="my walking shoes: Pulau Ubin" border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1920" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-U5hJfl9tw08/XpBd8-fMGmI/AAAAAAAAQ2Q/DG5bi8fhxjotBxIMz09w9AUIpfW16zvlgCK4BGAsYHg/DSC09106.jpg" title="my walking shoes: Pulau Ubin" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">Next is what they call the looped boardwalk where you can see the corals when it's low tide. It wasn't when we were there so we didn't get to see the colorful corals and other marine life</span><span style="font-family: verdana;"> which are one of the attractions.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-johThU646TY/XpBiQaFe4qI/AAAAAAAAQ3I/RPeAgyBWKKoT6tXTtK3P97qhWtjL0-oZACK4BGAsYHg/DSC09122b.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="my walking shoes: Pulau Ubin" border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1920" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-johThU646TY/XpBiQaFe4qI/AAAAAAAAQ3I/RPeAgyBWKKoT6tXTtK3P97qhWtjL0-oZACK4BGAsYHg/DSC09122b.jpg" title="my walking shoes: Pulau Ubin" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><font face="verdana">Yes, I seemed to have a habit of making jump shots on any walkways. I did a jump shot also on the Treetop Walk. </font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><font face="verdana"><br /></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><font face="verdana"><br /></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-a1Y3gpTXQVg/XpBiZeZRoCI/AAAAAAAAQ3U/FKJaK7R9Ifku3iYXp0EWKBWNcBRQPv5jgCK4BGAsYHg/DSCF1971a.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="my walking shoes: Pulau Ubin" border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="1920" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-a1Y3gpTXQVg/XpBiZeZRoCI/AAAAAAAAQ3U/FKJaK7R9Ifku3iYXp0EWKBWNcBRQPv5jgCK4BGAsYHg/DSCF1971a.jpg" title="my walking shoes: Pulau Ubin" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NcvTDSNnl_Q/XpB0BeNJOzI/AAAAAAAAQ-E/xNFm6Fr-utwtajWRLC38PNCOjT_q3fgFACK4BGAsYHg/DSC09128v.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="my walking shoes: Pulau Ubin" border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1920" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NcvTDSNnl_Q/XpB0BeNJOzI/AAAAAAAAQ-E/xNFm6Fr-utwtajWRLC38PNCOjT_q3fgFACK4BGAsYHg/DSC09128v.jpg" title="my walking shoes: Pulau Ubin" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZressYhDKmM/XpB0t4z327I/AAAAAAAAQ-Y/joRcpl2dqX09VVdzc25slgpYSRVwaOuqgCK4BGAsYHg/DSC09135v.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="my walking shoes: Pulau Ubin" border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1920" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZressYhDKmM/XpB0t4z327I/AAAAAAAAQ-Y/joRcpl2dqX09VVdzc25slgpYSRVwaOuqgCK4BGAsYHg/DSC09135v.jpg" title="my walking shoes: Pulau Ubin" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><font face="verdana">This one-kilometer looped boardwalk will then take you to the part where there are mangroves.</font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><font face="verdana"><br /></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><font face="verdana"><br /></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AEbQw3f_VqY/XpBu9c_VEjI/AAAAAAAAQ4c/VkyASlECkm8bty26qzvERemcekLbaeCCgCK4BGAsYHg/DSC09161b.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="my walking shoes: Pulau Ubin" border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1920" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AEbQw3f_VqY/XpBu9c_VEjI/AAAAAAAAQ4c/VkyASlECkm8bty26qzvERemcekLbaeCCgCK4BGAsYHg/DSC09161b.jpg" title="my walking shoes: Pulau Ubin" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Hp-_75uyC5A/XpBvH-wVlyI/AAAAAAAAQ4s/7EdwgRC61i8UmzGsZ2VBtg5SOW1s4KQBgCK4BGAsYHg/DSC09159b.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="my walking shoes: Pulau Ubin" border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1920" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Hp-_75uyC5A/XpBvH-wVlyI/AAAAAAAAQ4s/7EdwgRC61i8UmzGsZ2VBtg5SOW1s4KQBgCK4BGAsYHg/DSC09159b.jpg" title="my walking shoes: Pulau Ubin" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><font face="verdana">Aside from the mangroves, there are also a lot of nipa palms with fruits growing in the area. During our visit, I didn't have any idea what this jackfruit-like fruit we've seen but when I was writing this post, I looked it up on Google and it was a fruit of a nipa palm.</font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><font face="verdana"><br /></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><font face="verdana"><br /></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LVJRalBfoQ4/XpBvfXNtLjI/AAAAAAAAQ5M/JwbEC6LK2H8Lj-jnJ7fNFDdXI9Ms3MZrQCK4BGAsYHg/DSC09154b.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="my walking shoes: Pulau Ubin" border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1920" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LVJRalBfoQ4/XpBvfXNtLjI/AAAAAAAAQ5M/JwbEC6LK2H8Lj-jnJ7fNFDdXI9Ms3MZrQCK4BGAsYHg/DSC09154b.jpg" title="my walking shoes: Pulau Ubin" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><font face="verdana">They also have an observation tower which they call Jejawi Tower. It's a 20-meter high observation deck which gives you a 360-view of the island from above. We didn't get to see much. One part, you can see just the top of the trees.</font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><font face="verdana"><br /></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><font face="verdana"><br /></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><font face="verdana"><br /></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-U705MNFUXrk/XpBvo_Zg_nI/AAAAAAAAQ5c/ZAwMJg6TsGoFr7NpUXmNK-OiIrqazmjXACK4BGAsYHg/DSC09180b.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="my walking shoes: Pulau Ubin" border="0" data-original-height="1920" data-original-width="1440" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-U705MNFUXrk/XpBvo_Zg_nI/AAAAAAAAQ5c/ZAwMJg6TsGoFr7NpUXmNK-OiIrqazmjXACK4BGAsYHg/DSC09180b.jpg" title="my walking shoes: Pulau Ubin" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><font face="verdana">The other view is where you can see the sea and some mountains. Again, I only found out while writing this post that those mountains are in Malaysia.</font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><font face="verdana"><br /></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ucnqAQyQINc/XpBvyVaXxGI/AAAAAAAAQ5w/K4rfv3hD28QYUKJ3sq0rLzIGJMS-i-i1wCK4BGAsYHg/DSC09188b.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="my walking shoes: Pulau Ubin" border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1920" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ucnqAQyQINc/XpBvyVaXxGI/AAAAAAAAQ5w/K4rfv3hD28QYUKJ3sq0rLzIGJMS-i-i1wCK4BGAsYHg/DSC09188b.jpg" title="my walking shoes: Pulau Ubin" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IOInoOr_xAE/XpBv90RjqlI/AAAAAAAAQ6A/MKrz0aJ0pmMuHYf7C7VgCfyhuQj-cFjaQCK4BGAsYHg/DSC09200b.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="my walking shoes: Pulau Ubin" border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1920" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IOInoOr_xAE/XpBv90RjqlI/AAAAAAAAQ6A/MKrz0aJ0pmMuHYf7C7VgCfyhuQj-cFjaQCK4BGAsYHg/DSC09200b.jpg" title="my walking shoes: Pulau Ubin" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><font face="verdana">There are some other plants and flowers also. </font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><font face="verdana"><br /></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1MvZZ8abHYU/XpBwHfezawI/AAAAAAAAQ6Y/dSCIYwCKpvAyXZaILJJS2NDvnfh6izXOwCK4BGAsYHg/DSC09182b.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="my walking shoes: Pulau Ubin" border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1920" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1MvZZ8abHYU/XpBwHfezawI/AAAAAAAAQ6Y/dSCIYwCKpvAyXZaILJJS2NDvnfh6izXOwCK4BGAsYHg/DSC09182b.jpg" title="my walking shoes: Pulau Ubin" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><font face="verdana">One of the highlights of our day, aside from that encounter with the bag-stealing monkey, was we spotted a wild boar. Yes, in the flesh. It was in a hurry to go somewhere. Good thing though because we don't want another close encounter with the wild kind. The monkey really gave us a scare.</font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><font face="verdana"><br /></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><font face="verdana"><br /></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fhpWMAtzVxw/XpBwRgzTwCI/AAAAAAAAQ6s/GF8hMO2ImkMY3-SVK5IP5Ql3XJX81PQwQCK4BGAsYHg/DSC09205b.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="my walking shoes: Pulau Ubin" border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1920" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fhpWMAtzVxw/XpBwRgzTwCI/AAAAAAAAQ6s/GF8hMO2ImkMY3-SVK5IP5Ql3XJX81PQwQCK4BGAsYHg/DSC09205b.jpg" title="my walking shoes: Pulau Ubin" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aT68SwZUcxk/XpBwb4rWLLI/AAAAAAAAQ68/p1hm66tjwuQCGxqH0wD4BeeUVB7_hLJYQCK4BGAsYHg/DSC09219b.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="my walking shoes: Pulau Ubin" border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1920" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aT68SwZUcxk/XpBwb4rWLLI/AAAAAAAAQ68/p1hm66tjwuQCGxqH0wD4BeeUVB7_hLJYQCK4BGAsYHg/DSC09219b.jpg" title="my walking shoes: Pulau Ubin" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><font face="verdana">Pulau Ubin apparently had five granite quarries which were used to build some of Singapore's structures like the Causeway, Istana and the Raffles Lighthouse. These quarries are now closed and are now a habitat for some birds like herons.</font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zuOaGR4UoQ4/XpBwlqmnrtI/AAAAAAAAQ7Q/oQFzvidcCmQ7WtggjTzCfjAkNENofeZlgCK4BGAsYHg/DSC09218.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="my walking shoes: Pulau Ubin" border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1920" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zuOaGR4UoQ4/XpBwlqmnrtI/AAAAAAAAQ7Q/oQFzvidcCmQ7WtggjTzCfjAkNENofeZlgCK4BGAsYHg/DSC09218.jpg" title="my walking shoes: Pulau Ubin" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><font face="verdana">On our way back, we didn't have to pass through the kingdom of the monkeys again. Fortunately, there is another road which goes by one of the quarries and ends at the crossroad going to the monkeys lair. I was so relieved we didn't have to go through there again.</font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><font face="verdana"><br /></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><font face="verdana">So, here are some of the buildings on the island. They have this structure which had a sign saying they are raising funds to rebuild the temple. </font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><font face="verdana"><br /></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sGX05xoqsRk/XpBw2OIZDII/AAAAAAAAQ7o/wC3SByYbJLwluRQBPDqMW_kx4QuW3Zj8ACK4BGAsYHg/DSC09220b.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="my walking shoes: Pulau Ubin" border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1920" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sGX05xoqsRk/XpBw2OIZDII/AAAAAAAAQ7o/wC3SByYbJLwluRQBPDqMW_kx4QuW3Zj8ACK4BGAsYHg/DSC09220b.jpg" title="my walking shoes: Pulau Ubin" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><font face="verdana">There was the temple and there was a store right beside it. We wanted to buy drinks from that store but I think the woman who owned it did not speak English or we just changed our minds. I am not sure.</font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><font face="verdana"><br /></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-219z2u76Eao/XpBw-9GYPhI/AAAAAAAAQ74/JgZrfLrpy4omyoBDyzK5V5PK11JaXIu4ACK4BGAsYHg/DSC09221b.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="my walking shoes: Pulau Ubin" border="0" data-original-height="1307" data-original-width="1743" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-219z2u76Eao/XpBw-9GYPhI/AAAAAAAAQ74/JgZrfLrpy4omyoBDyzK5V5PK11JaXIu4ACK4BGAsYHg/DSC09221b.jpg" title="my walking shoes: Pulau Ubin" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><font face="verdana">There was also an eatery. No, we didn't try to eat there.</font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><font face="verdana"><br /></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><font face="verdana"><br /></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-60NwYim1Ijs/XpBxJP4R0FI/AAAAAAAAQ8M/l73r4q1yQeUKnsYuUpm6lLEJfJf4pngqACK4BGAsYHg/DSC09223b.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="my walking shoes: Pulau Ubin" border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1920" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-60NwYim1Ijs/XpBxJP4R0FI/AAAAAAAAQ8M/l73r4q1yQeUKnsYuUpm6lLEJfJf4pngqACK4BGAsYHg/DSC09223b.jpg" title="my walking shoes: Pulau Ubin" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><font face="verdana">Then, they have about two or three bike rental shops. There are only 38 people living in the island. </font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><font face="verdana"><br /></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><font face="verdana"><br /></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><font face="verdana"><br /></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-c8qITzCklAc/XpBxTPBXdHI/AAAAAAAAQ8c/eff_Ljw00rg4vEVS9fQiEiQlbWw30THPwCK4BGAsYHg/DSC09222b.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="my walking shoes: Pulau Ubin" border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1920" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-c8qITzCklAc/XpBxTPBXdHI/AAAAAAAAQ8c/eff_Ljw00rg4vEVS9fQiEiQlbWw30THPwCK4BGAsYHg/DSC09222b.jpg" title="my walking shoes: Pulau Ubin" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><font face="verdana">Then, there's the visitor center and the rest rooms.</font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><font face="verdana"><br /></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1c0y-ZL1Mio/XpBxcvUzr4I/AAAAAAAAQ8w/hRfsBPCyJ10bvbtkaDNdtxxap81vaeNsgCK4BGAsYHg/DSC09224b.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="my walking shoes: Pulau Ubin" border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1920" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1c0y-ZL1Mio/XpBxcvUzr4I/AAAAAAAAQ8w/hRfsBPCyJ10bvbtkaDNdtxxap81vaeNsgCK4BGAsYHg/DSC09224b.jpg" title="my walking shoes: Pulau Ubin" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><font face="verdana">So, all in all, it was fun. A different side of Singapore. Biking was a good cardio exercise and I missed being on a bike. Walking through the boardwalk was a relaxing way to spend a day with the breeze and the salty smell of the sea. It was true enough, the road less traveled and it was a very memorable experience for us. </font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><font face="verdana"><br /></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><font face="verdana">Would I want to revisit Pulau Ubin? Yes, I would and hopefully, no wild-bag-snatching monkeys roaming around just waiting for its next victim. I'd prefer them to stay in the trees. It would also be a chance to see that house #1 which we missed on this tour.</font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><font face="verdana"><br /></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><font face="verdana">After that tour of the island, we went back to the mainland to eat our late lunch. We were starving and we badly needed an ice-cold coke. We needed to cool down after that excitement with the monkey.</font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><font face="verdana">There are other sites and places in Singapore that are not so popular with the tourists. They have a hot spring, a waterfall and some other bike and hike trails. Hopefully, on my next visit to Singapore, I would be able to visit those places and tell you my experience about them.</font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><font face="verdana"><br /></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><font face="verdana"><br /></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><font face="verdana"><br /></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><font face="courier"><i>Some information regarding Pulau Ubin were taken from Wikipedia and Google.</i></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><font face="verdana"><br /></font></div>Gurlayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12786636457565228373noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-418410919271527104.post-84915380091124642672020-04-10T14:47:00.009+08:002020-04-10T15:54:34.892+08:00Lakawon Island <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2uFWDxbHQDs/XpAWso0kbSI/AAAAAAAAQxc/pEK_76X-qJkhOii89Nom4wtgXCE66QUXACK4BGAsYHg/IMG_7009a.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="my walking shoes: lakawon island" border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1920" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2uFWDxbHQDs/XpAWso0kbSI/AAAAAAAAQxc/pEK_76X-qJkhOii89Nom4wtgXCE66QUXACK4BGAsYHg/IMG_7009a.jpg" title="my walking shoes: lakawon island" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><font face="verdana"><br /></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><font face="verdana"><br /></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><font face="verdana"><br /></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><font face="verdana">Because of Covid-19 lock down and since it's a Good Friday, I took time off work. Finally, I have time to go through my photos and update my travel blog. I know this took a year but still, I hope that this post will help you decide to explore this very cute and relaxing island near Bacolod City. It's very low-key, not as crowded as Boracay. According to Wikipedia, this island is about 13 hectares and is a family-run and owned business. Apparently, it derived its name from the Cebuano term "lakaw" which is to walk or wade a long distance to or from the main island of Cadiz on low tide. From my experience, I don't think it's possible to just walk from the ferry terminal to Lakawon Island. </font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><font face="verdana"><br /></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-c9yR9OXM5NY/XpANWEc_9JI/AAAAAAAAQu4/JYHvX1_39YIxIg0zEGYcetREzHa2-pocACK4BGAsYHg/l1a.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="my walking shoes: lakawon island" border="0" data-original-height="1548" data-original-width="1161" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-c9yR9OXM5NY/XpANWEc_9JI/AAAAAAAAQu4/JYHvX1_39YIxIg0zEGYcetREzHa2-pocACK4BGAsYHg/l1a.jpg" title="my walking shoes: lakawon island" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><font face="verdana">This is the last leg of our trip. One of my best friends who's from Bacolod has a car so we did not commute to Cadiz City. The ride was about an hour to Cadiz Viejo and from there, it would be a rough road through a sugarcane plantation. The end is where the ferry terminal to get to the island. The ferry boat ride is about 20 minutes. You will have to pay about 350 pesos which includes a two-way fare for the boat, entrance fee to the island and the terminal fee. If you are planning to commute or use public transport to Lakawon, you can ride a Ceres bus to Cadiz Viejo from Bacolod or there's also a van. As to the details, feel free to check out other blogs.</font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cnr2qw5nFHE/XpANl1ebVbI/AAAAAAAAQvc/z-eSw71_YI0X_ueyWGqL0IPQC9RHKODeQCK4BGAsYHg/l1a%2B%25281%2529.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="my walking shoes: lakawon island" border="0" data-original-height="1548" data-original-width="1161" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cnr2qw5nFHE/XpANl1ebVbI/AAAAAAAAQvc/z-eSw71_YI0X_ueyWGqL0IPQC9RHKODeQCK4BGAsYHg/l1a%2B%25281%2529.jpg" title="my walking shoes: lakawon island" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><font face="verdana"><br /></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eVFnDq0EdAU/XpAKajqPaaI/AAAAAAAAQsM/aytwq2jd6aQX5pjjn1yGCkhHBL5zZBlFACK4BGAsYHg/l1a%2B%25281%2529.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="my walking shoes: lakawon island" border="0" data-original-height="1548" data-original-width="1161" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eVFnDq0EdAU/XpAKajqPaaI/AAAAAAAAQsM/aytwq2jd6aQX5pjjn1yGCkhHBL5zZBlFACK4BGAsYHg/l1a%2B%25281%2529.jpg" title="my walking shoes: lakawon island" /></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><font face="verdana">There is a schedule for the boat going to and from the island. We actually left early since we won't be spending overnight in the island. We arrived in the ferry terminal </font><span style="font-family: verdana;"> around 9:00 am and we bought snacks at the sari-sari stores near the ferry terminal. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T6zd6qtwupQ/XpANxJr7WGI/AAAAAAAAQvo/fFrn_bkjEJcKuWJUwy98NM4YsBb9OV35wCK4BGAsYHg/IMG_6998a.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="my walking shoes: lakawon island" border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1920" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T6zd6qtwupQ/XpANxJr7WGI/AAAAAAAAQvo/fFrn_bkjEJcKuWJUwy98NM4YsBb9OV35wCK4BGAsYHg/IMG_6998a.jpg" title="my walking shoes: lakawon island" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-c8PJWZnhhjQ/XpARjMtnM2I/AAAAAAAAQwU/W0m1sOLIunkkfDK17iF8bACBZktiW1zLQCK4BGAsYHg/IMG_7004a.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="my walking shoes: lakawon island" border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1920" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-c8PJWZnhhjQ/XpARjMtnM2I/AAAAAAAAQwU/W0m1sOLIunkkfDK17iF8bACBZktiW1zLQCK4BGAsYHg/IMG_7004a.jpg" title="my walking shoes: lakawon island" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">Once you get to the island, this view will welcome you. A long stretch of white sand. Well, not as long as Boracay, but feel free to think that this is your private island for a day. Feel free to think that you own the island for just one day. And indeed, because of it being less crowded, with very few people, you will truly get into that mindset. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-O2MWpjLtkU8/XpAL_1JmPuI/AAAAAAAAQtQ/2FpHOgNVP-s3lW9ZgfL73vpx19YHGi5RgCK4BGAsYHg/IMG_7007a.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="my walking shoes: lakawon island" border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1920" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-O2MWpjLtkU8/XpAL_1JmPuI/AAAAAAAAQtQ/2FpHOgNVP-s3lW9ZgfL73vpx19YHGi5RgCK4BGAsYHg/IMG_7007a.jpg" title="my walking shoes: lakawon island" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><font face="verdana">There are cottages you can use for free, I think. We didn't pay when were there but feel free to check with the resort. We brought our own snacks of chips, water and soda. They also have a restaurant if you want a full meal. </font></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AVECUe4J7LM/XpAMNbl6CoI/AAAAAAAAQtg/wrIEdLjhYZQPtUy145Vy1aAUWdNNu7GawCK4BGAsYHg/DSC00126a.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="my walking shoes: lakawon island" border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1920" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AVECUe4J7LM/XpAMNbl6CoI/AAAAAAAAQtg/wrIEdLjhYZQPtUy145Vy1aAUWdNNu7GawCK4BGAsYHg/DSC00126a.jpg" title="my walking shoes: lakawon island" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mJuBeIrH1Uw/XpAMVKn9K7I/AAAAAAAAQtw/XIvBejizMq4DS4uYL7WT4_C-TbFxlXeRgCK4BGAsYHg/DSC00125a.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="my walking shoes: lakawon island" border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1920" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mJuBeIrH1Uw/XpAMVKn9K7I/AAAAAAAAQtw/XIvBejizMq4DS4uYL7WT4_C-TbFxlXeRgCK4BGAsYHg/DSC00125a.jpg" title="my walking shoes: lakawon island" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Y8DJJhANqw0/XpATNJyFd3I/AAAAAAAAQww/HIHFA49iXUA8QygAjFJk1c_3pBN1Q5VBgCK4BGAsYHg/a.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="my walking shoes: lakawon island" border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1920" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Y8DJJhANqw0/XpATNJyFd3I/AAAAAAAAQww/HIHFA49iXUA8QygAjFJk1c_3pBN1Q5VBgCK4BGAsYHg/a.jpg" title="my walking shoes: lakawon island" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fzX49C38zYE/XpATUqBF1YI/AAAAAAAAQw8/7Lee2zi_baUnuqRt91vb_MfXqQ4DD89GACK4BGAsYHg/DSC00128a.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="my walking shoes: lakawon island" border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1920" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fzX49C38zYE/XpATUqBF1YI/AAAAAAAAQw8/7Lee2zi_baUnuqRt91vb_MfXqQ4DD89GACK4BGAsYHg/DSC00128a.jpg" title="my walking shoes: lakawon island" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><font face="verdana">After resting for a bit from the drive, we bathe. The water is cool and very clear. No need to worry about stepping on nasty sea urchins. </font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><font face="verdana"><br /></font></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yc3wOVCifVo/XpAXy_hk1VI/AAAAAAAAQxw/yF0TUVDofNA3_BTitKj0fJPVCm5FS39HwCK4BGAsYHg/IMG_7008a.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="my walking shoes: lakawon island" border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1920" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yc3wOVCifVo/XpAXy_hk1VI/AAAAAAAAQxw/yF0TUVDofNA3_BTitKj0fJPVCm5FS39HwCK4BGAsYHg/IMG_7008a.jpg" title="my walking shoes: lakawon island" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">After swimming for a bit, we took pictures and tried checking the other side of the island. There's nothing much to see there and it's a bit rough on the other side. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aXzXg4jA_P8/XpAL5CxS8HI/AAAAAAAAQtE/oCrpv27VUTMXicupFtUb_c6iyIQMhnu6wCK4BGAsYHg/DSC00133a.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1920" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aXzXg4jA_P8/XpAL5CxS8HI/AAAAAAAAQtE/oCrpv27VUTMXicupFtUb_c6iyIQMhnu6wCK4BGAsYHg/DSC00133a.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3vxjnIR2Wpk/XpAmFJeBsqI/AAAAAAAAQys/q18NIzJHK1kqFw0wXN6trUGiNRShyXihACK4BGAsYHg/a%2B%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="my walking shoes: lakawon island" border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3vxjnIR2Wpk/XpAmFJeBsqI/AAAAAAAAQys/q18NIzJHK1kqFw0wXN6trUGiNRShyXihACK4BGAsYHg/a%2B%25281%2529.jpg" title="my walking shoes: lakawon island" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><font face="verdana">At around 3:00 or 4:00 pm, we decided to call it a day and changed to go back to the main land. You will have to use the boardwalk to get to the waiting area for the ferry.</font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><font face="verdana"><br /></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><font face="verdana">Unfortunately, I didn't get to take a lot of pictures because my camera has run out of juice. So, I hope, that you once this Covid-19 crisis is over and since it's summer, if you're looking to go to the beach and don't want a crowded beach, this is where you need to go for a dose of vitamin D and vitamin sea. </font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><font face="verdana"><br /></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><font face="verdana">This also concluded our Bacolod trip. It was a fun-filled three-day experience catching up with friends who are like sisters from another mother. I went home to Cebu and my other friend went back to Manila knowing that even though we won't be seeing each other every day like when were all based in Manila, we take comfort in the knowledge that we will be there for each other through the distance. We will take time to visit each other when our schedules permit and catch up. </font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><font face="verdana"><br /></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cKYylt3Z34M/XpAjjI73VzI/AAAAAAAAQyQ/XrIXTIubcv0n2iR_AgB-z_-UhWcbge8JgCK4BGAsYHg/a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="my walking shoes: lakawon island" border="0" data-original-height="1161" data-original-width="1548" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cKYylt3Z34M/XpAjjI73VzI/AAAAAAAAQyQ/XrIXTIubcv0n2iR_AgB-z_-UhWcbge8JgCK4BGAsYHg/a.jpg" title="my walking shoes: lakawon island" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><font face="courier">Me, Rhona and Merly <br /></font><br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><font face="verdana">Special thanks to Rhona (the best friend from Bacolod)</font><span style="font-family: verdana;"> and Ron-ron (her brother, who furnished the house) </span><span style="font-family: verdana;">for letting us stay in the "House of Chandeliers." If you are looking for a place to stay in Bacolod City, look for the House of Chandeliers on AirBnB. The place is clean, safe and very quiet. A very good place to relax after a day of sight-seeing around the city. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><font face="verdana"><br /></font></div><font face="verdana"><br /></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>Gurlayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12786636457565228373noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-418410919271527104.post-49415493133160577462019-05-05T12:00:00.002+08:002021-04-14T14:40:26.368+08:00Singapore: The Road Less Traveled (Part 1)<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">As I have said before, I've been to Singapore four times and only on my last visit have I truly explored and tasted this island city-state. There's so much more to Singapore than just the Universal Studios or the Marina Bay or the Zoo. There are still places that needed to be discovered and what's even more amazing is they are so cheap or even free. </span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">So, follow me and let's go explore the Merlion City by the road less traveled.</span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Unbeknownst to everyone, Singapore actually has a lot of places or spots where you can jog, run, picnic or hike. It has a few outdoor spots where you can read a book or just stroll. The last time I was in Singapore, one of our goals was to go somewhere we haven't been to and without spending much. Somewhere where we won't have to pay for entrance fees. So, I scoured the internet for places in the Merlion city we could explore. And walah, my search turned up a few hits. There were a few blogs that mentioned places we haven't been to and we need not break the bank. Here are some of the places we went to which are really good hiking and nature trails. Best of all, you won't have to go too far. It's within a bus or an MRT ride. You would only need to bring a bottle of water, a change of shirt and wear your rubber shoes. You don't even have to be a hardcore hiker to finish the trail. It's like a walk in the park and you can take lots of selfies and pictures in between. So, lace up those trainers and let's start. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #274e13; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-weight: normal;">Marang Trail </span></h3>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">The starting point of this leisure hike is the Marang Trail. You have to take a bus or an MRT to Harbourpoint. It's the same stop if you want to go to Sentosa Island. Once you have reached Harbourpoint, take Exit D to Marang Road. Just read the signs where Exit D is and you'll be sure to find it. You have to cross via the walkway and be on the opposite side of Harbourpoint.</span><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">You will know you've reached the beginning of the trail because you will see this sign post and lots of parked bicycles. Well, it's actually beside a parking lot.</span><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">The trail consists of stairs and a paved path. Mind you though, you will notice that the walk is going to be uphill. </span><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Along the way, you will see plants and trees. The trail is a bit shaded so you won't have to worry about being under too much heat. But it's best too wear sunscreen also or a hat or any other headgear. Best also to start early in the morning. For us, we arrived around 7am at the foot of the Marang Trail. </span><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">As I have mentioned, the trail starts to incline, you will know this when you reach the part where you will have to climb stairs. Don't worry, the view is nice. You can start too see the opposite side which is Sentosa. </span><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">It would be just stairs until you reach the end of the trail. At the top would be Mt. Faber, the second highest peak in Singapore. This is where you will see one of the Merlion statues. There's also a restaurant here, a park and you can actually ride a cable car to reach Mt. Faber. I didn't mention the cable car earlier because it's too easy. It's more fun hiking and it's a lot cheaper. </span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">From Mt. faber, you will see an amazing panoramic view of Sentosa, Harbourpoint and it's neighboring places. It's a different view of Singapore which you don't get to see everyday, unless you climb Mt. Faber everyday or work at Mt. Faber.</span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">From Mt. Faber to the next part of this hike is a plain paved road. Be sure to stay on the sidewalk though as there are many vehicles passing this area. Along the way, you will have a lot of spots where you can take selfies. I mentioned a cable car earlier, right? You can take a selfie while inside a cable car here, only it's not moving.</span><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">You will also see this very colorful set of stairs. You can't climb it though as the access gate is locked. </span><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Next stop is the Henderson Waves. It's actually a bridge that has a very unique architectural design. Yes, like waves. Obviously! It's the highest pedestrian bridge that connects Mt. Faber to Telok Blangah Hill. It's about 276 meters long and 36 meters above Henderson Road or about 77 meters above sea level.</span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">This is the start of the Henderson Waves Bridge. When we were there, there were a few people doing all sorts of things. Some, just like us, are tourists exploring. There were also locals exercising. There were groups of teenagers just strolling. There was even a couple who was doing their pre-nup pictorial.</span><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">This is the Alkaff Mansion. We passed it on our way to the Treetop Walk. No, we didn't get inside.</span><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">The McRitchie Reservoir is the oldest water reservoir in Singapore. We didn't take this trail but the Treetop walk. As its name suggests, it's a suspended 250 meter walkway made of mesh steel. A good nature walk where you can see various plants, birds and flowers. We didn't get to see a lot of birds when we were there but the view was very refreshing. It's a totally different side of Singapore. It's a forest in the middle of the city. </span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Traversing the suspended walkway wasn't scary at all. Yes, it was way up there and you can see below vegetation and trees. The bridge is very sturdy and I trust that the Singaporean engineers and architect who designed the bridge have taken into account the amount of stress, weight and pressure the bridge can withstand. So, I wasn't worried at all.</span><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">The whole length, from Mt. Faber to the end of the Treetop Walk is about 9 kilometers. I don't think it was that long. Maybe, we took a shortcut or something but it sure didn't feel like we walked that whole length. We finished the hike in about 3 hours that's because we took lots of pictures, stopped to take breaks and just enjoyed the views and people-watched. Just another great day at the park. It was a fun and a different way to experience Singapore. Especially, when at the end of it you will see a cute squirrel. It was a like a good reward for finishing the walk. And nothing beats a good lunch at the hawker stalls in Harbourpoint after. </span><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">How about you? Have you been to any place in Singapore where only a few people know? Have you walked the path that's less travelled?</span><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Up next...part 2. Let's go biking this time. Yes, still in Singapore, the road less travelled. </span><br />
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Gurlayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12786636457565228373noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-418410919271527104.post-64414200426472308842019-04-14T16:43:00.001+08:002020-10-13T18:41:34.006+08:00Chasing Cherry Blossoms in South Korea<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">It's been one of my wishes to see the cherry blossoms. The original plan was to go to Japan in April since cherry blossoms are in full bloom during springtime. Unfortunately, flights are really expensive, like 35,000 pesos expensive. So, that's a bit of an issue since I don't have a lot to spend just on airfare. I'm a budget traveler so I'd prefer to spend on the experiences and food on the actual trip. </span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">So, with that bump to the plan, we opted to find another option. And voila, I found that it's cheaper to go to Seoul. Best of all, they have cherry blossoms too and they are in full bloom also in April. So, we started looking for the best priced flights and finally booked our tickets to Seoul via Incheon. We booked our tickets on two different airlines since we would be saving more. We also used our memberships discounts and points to pay for our luggage. We saved a few pesos which is already a big difference. Our two-way airfare was about 10,000 pesos and that's way too reasonable already. And take note, we booked our flights in November 2018 for our planned trip last April 6 to 11, 2019. That's about six months in advanced.</span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">On Monday, April 8, 2019, we finally had our first glimpse of the famed and most sought after cherry blossoms. But here's a story first. We went to Nami Island the day before, a Sunday, hoping to see the cherry blossoms in full bloom. And surprise, surprise...not one bloom or flower can be seen. Nami Island is colorless except for the green pine trees. But all other trees and plants seemed to be still in Winter mood. It seemed like they're still hibernating, if plants do hibernate. The place felt so desolate in browns and grays. I was disappointed. But then again, we can't lose heart on our first day in Korea, right?</span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">So, the next day, we head out to Yeouido Park. It's one of the popular places where cherry blossoms can be seen in Seoul. And surprise, surprise again...they're there all right but not in full bloom yet. But then, we can't be too gloomy. They are beautiful but not as many or as overwhelming as I saw them in the pictures. I wasn't amazed with my first sight of the cherry blossoms in Yeouido Park. But nevertheless, we took pictures after pictures fearing this might be our only chance of seeing the cherry blossoms. So, here are some of the pictures we took. </span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Well, that's not too bad, right? It wasn't really, but I was hoping to be amazed. Sadly, I wasn't. It was not enough for me. I was expecting more. So, the next day, Tuesday, April 8, 2019, our itinerary was to go to Lotte World. We know that a lake surrounds the theme park and it's called Seokchon Lake. Apparently, they too have cherry blossoms there. So, the plan was to go there before Lotte World opens and take pictures. We weren't expecting so much because we didn't want our hearts broken again. </span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Lo and behold! The whole lake is surrounded by cherry blossoms in full bloom. The pavement is peppered with white petals that have fallen off from the branches. Each side of the walkway is lined with cherry blossoms. I was speechless. This is the experience I have been looking for. This is what I wanted to see. A truly amazing experience and one I can truly check off my bucket list. Yes, from that moment, I was ready for all other things to happen, even if they're not going to be nice because I think I had my fill of the best experience. It's like I have more than enough anesthesia to store for the aches and disappointments to come. That was how I was feeling. It was surreal. Finally, I have touched and felt these ever praised cherry blossoms which only bloom in spring and they shed their flowers after a week. They don't last forever. The same could be said for some good things in life that never last. And I guess, that's why these tiny flowers are so sought after because they're so beautiful and they don't last for long. You have to savor the experience basking in their beauty. And that's what makes the experience unique because it's fleeting. It's not a daily occurrence. The same is true with everything in life. You cherish each moment because it may never happen again. You'll have to wait a whole year to see these flowers bloom again. And who knows where we will be in a year? </span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Seeing the cherry blossoms in full bloom was an emotional experience for me. In fact, while writing this post, I got teary-eyed reliving the experience. It was truly one for the books. An experience that I would carry with me for the rest of my life. Why am I being emotional over some tiny pink and white flowers? And I don't even like pink. I actually hate pink but I didn't even think of that. It never came to mind. I just basked in the luxury of being under the canopy of these delicate flowers and imagined myself being blanketed in beauty and the wonder of nature. I felt invincible, if only for a moment. It was like nothing can hurt me now. Bring it on!</span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">So, I was being emotional because the past three years or so </span><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">haven't been what I wanted. It was actually very hard and I think those were the darkest part of my life. I'm not exaggerating. It truly was a very difficult and desolate time for me. I had very very dark thoughts and I came very very close to giving up on life and everything. </span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">To finally travel again, which is one of my passions, is a great blessing. I thought that I would never be able to afford to travel abroad again and experience the high of experiencing something new and learning about a country's culture and history first hand. Walking under the extended branches with the cherry blossoms in full glory was like a reminder to me that I can never give up. That I should always try to look at things differently or with a new perspective. Even how desperate a situation is, I should try to think that it's not always going to be my situation. It's not permanent. Everything will surely turn positive once it's gone worst. It had nowhere else to go but turn all right, right? </span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">With this surreal and unbelievable experience, I think fate or whoever has turned my world so dark has more than made up for it. I am just so thankful that I have experienced this in this lifetime. I am humbled and I will continue to be positive in spite of everything. As I recall, this is one of the fruits of my good thoughts. I remember there were government officials doing a survey around our barangay and the questions were about the prices, employment, inflation, etc. Some of the questions were if people see the situations changing for the worse or for the better. The government employee commented that my answers were always hopeful. That I was optimistic that things will be better. And I answered that they should be. We can't think that things will get worse because they probably will. Indeed, the mind is so powerful. I started with that thought and never let go. Things will get better and I worked hard to get them better. I prayed harder too. So, the cherry blossoms represent that for me. That it always pays to be positive. No matter how absolutely down or desperate the situation is, never lose hope. I know it's so cliche but it always works.</span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif" style="text-align: justify;">So, even when it was around six degrees Celsius while we were walking and feasting our senses with the beauty of the cherry blossoms and the sky was a bit gray, it didn't matter. Even if it felt like it was still winter in Seoul instead of spring, it didn't matter. What matters was in that moment, my insides were warm because my heart felt so huge it felt like bursting out of my chest because it was filled with overwhelming happiness and pure joy. And yes, all because of those tiny and delicate pink flowers whose lifespan is only a week. </span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">As I have said, I will forever treasure this moment. This trip to Seoul has been one of my best trips. </span><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">So long Korea. I will be back. Thank your for the wonderful experiences. Kamsamhamnida!</span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">How about you? Have you seen the cherry blossoms? Share your experiences too.</span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Coming up...more posts on our South Korea trip. Stay tuned.</span></div>
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Gurlayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12786636457565228373noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-418410919271527104.post-89425612051540191932019-03-31T17:01:00.001+08:002019-06-11T16:13:56.150+08:00Sipalay: A Hidden Gem<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Welcome to <b>Sipalay</b>! </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>The Jewel of the Sugar Island</i>. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Sipalay or officially known as the <b>City of Sipalay</b> is about 175 kilometers south from Bacolod City, over three hours by car or about 5 hours by bus. Once you reach Sipaly, you will be welcomed by this mosque-like structure which is their city hall. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">There are about ten beach resorts in Sipalay. We only went to three. Our first stop is the <b>Perth Paradise Resort.</b> It's situated on the side of a hill and it overlooks a very stunning and relaxing view of peanut kisses shaped islands. Yes, these islands look like floating peanut kisses. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">As you enter the gate of Perth, you will see this view on your left. A short boardwalk to a dock where guests can go ride a boat to go island-hopping or enjoy kayaking leisurely. It's safe to go kayaking because the water is very calm. No waves at all. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Then, you would have to go up about two flight of stairs to get to the main part of the resort and where a stunning view awaits. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">They have an infinity pool with a view that is just so amazing. Whatever the pool lacked in size, it more than made up for its priceless and very very wonderful view. It's picture perfect and it's like looking at a postcard. You better take in this view and immortalize it for eternity. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">But that's not all, there's more. You can go up to their lookout point where you'll have a 360 degree view of the sea, the other islands and the hills surrounding Perth. So, brace yourself to be astounded once again.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">You have permission to go all-gaga on taking loads of pictures and selfies. No one will ever fault you for it. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">One reminder though, going to Perth is probably the most difficult and arduous road we've ever took. And I mean this literally. The road going to the resort is a bit of challenge. You will need all your driving skills and calm. It's a very rough and narrow road with a very steep drop on your left and an unprepared swim in the sea to your right if you miscalculate steering the wheel. So, consider yourself warned. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">And one more thing, parking space is very limited. You will have no choice but park you car vertically or park in a bit of a slope. But no worries, the resort people knew the challenges going to their resort so they have people who will assist you in making sure you don't make an accidental plunge and also find you a parking space. But all these challenges, the sweat and the nerves going there will be forgotten once you see the view. It's all worth it. But I hope your heart can still take it taking the journey back down the rough road again.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">After Perth, we went back our way to visit <b>Tinagong Dagat</b>. Actually, we were supposed to go to Tinagong Dagat first but we missed the turnoff. Must be the reason why it's called Tinagong Dagat. Many people have probably missed the turnoff also. Did you get the joke? </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Anyway, the road going to Tinagong Dagat and parking is not as hard as Perth. It's an improvement but this time, you'll have to walk a few meters uphill. Yes, the resort is also situated on a hill and you'll have to cross three connected bridges made of bamboo and there's one hanging bridge. It's actually just one long bridge but then I noticed that there were three different portions of the bridge and the materials used were not all the same. Not all bamboo. It's sort of a hodgepodge of a bamboo bridge, a hanging bridge and there are also cemented areas where you can rest between each bridge. So, it's one of the reasons why to me it seemed like three connected bridges. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Anyway, once you've </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">crossed the bridge, you will see a building with a sign that says <b>Latasan Island Resort</b>. It's still part of Tinagong Dagat. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I just can't resist benches and flowers, so I had to make sure I have a picture here. You do agree, the flowers are beautiful, right?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">They also have a pool with a view but not as stunning as the one in Perth. You will still see the peanut-kisses like islands also but the view is a bit different. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Then, you'll have to climb steps here also to get to their vantage point. Don't worry, the climb will also be so worth it. If you think you have seen everything when you saw the floating peanut kisses, believe me, it's not all there is. In here, you will see an island shaped like a turtle. Isn't it amazing? Only in the Philippines.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: justify;">And we have to thank our very creative guide for some of the very impressive pictures here, especially the panoramas. Our guide, a boy who's about 10 to 12 years old, has become very adept in taking pictures and knew exactly the spots where to take them. Unfortunately, we were not able to get his name but we did reward him for his skills with extra tip and a large back of Pica chips to share with his two other friends. I think, the other boy thought he won the lottery when we handed him the bag of chips. It was like Christmas came early and it melted our hearts because for us, a bag of chips is just a bag of chips. But to them, it seemed like it was the highlight of their day and we were so glad that in some way, we made them happy. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We just took picture after picture in Tinagang Dagat also. We didn't do any water activities. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I have something to confess though...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Something happened when were leaving Tinagong Dagat. We blame it all on the avocado ice candy we were eating. We were all distracted. We didn't cause any damage but I think it was the closest thing we did to feel like we were criminals.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We backed into a parked SUV. Good thing, we hit his large tires and the back of the car, our car, just bounced on it. Thank the rubber gods for those giant tires. No dents on the enormous SUV and no additional dent to our already dented backside. I mean, the back of the car. And note, there was an eye witness. One of the bystanders saw us and he also went to check if we did any damage to the SUV. He was actually the one who said that there was nothing (</span><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">So, we were on the clear. No harm, no foul. No case, so we don't need a lawyer.</i><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">) and he also pointed out that our car was dented. Well, it was an old dent when my friend and her brother also had a similar experience. We were actually talking about that experience when we were leaving Perth. As fate would have it, a similar thing happened only an hour or two after. This is definitely one of those trips that we will never forget and I have one more thing to add to "My Funny Friend and Me" compilation part 2.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">So, it was lunchtime when we got off Tinagong Dagat and we drove back to the main part of the city to eat lunch. </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Our friend said we would eat by the Poblacion beach. This is their public beach with a shoreline. Perth and Tinagong Dagat didn't have shorelines. There are restaurants fronting the shoreline so it would be fun. But when we got there, not one restaurant was open. Guess, they only open for dinner or late afternoon. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">So, we just drove back to Bacolod. We thought we would just stop by Kabancalan and find some place to eat there. We didn't stop for any other places except for Mila's in Hinigaran. This is a very famous pastry shop and restaurant for their buko pies, bibingka and bitchikoy. We bought one whole buko pie, potato cake, fruit pies and chicken pies. Sadly, we didn't get to try their bibingka and bitchikoy because we didn't know that those were their specialties. Our friend who was from Bacolod stayed in the car and she only told us to try the buko pie. But I was really curious about the bitchikoy. It's their version of a donut with cheese inside. Well, at least, I know what to buy when I go there next time. The buko pie is really good. It's very smooth and it has yema or custard which is what makes their buko pie different. The chicken pie is good but not that impressive. I wasn't a fan of the potato cake either. My friends like it though. But I was really hooked on their fruit pie. I can taste the fruit on my first bite and it's not the canned fruit type but the real fresh fruit. More fruits than pie crust. I should have bought more than three pieces if I knew they were that really good. I will definitely go panic-buying on Mila's fruit pies next time.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">So, the next time you're in the Bacolod City area or anywhere in Negros Occidental, try to visit Sipalay. Or if you've been to Sipalay, share your experiences also.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Up next is the third part of our Bacolod trip...Lakawon Island. Watch for it on my next post. Thanks for dropping by.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-weight: normal;"><i>Thanks to our guide in Tinagong Dagat and to Rhona and Merly for some of the pictures here in which I was in it. Pictures were taken with a Samsung S7 phone, iphone 4s and a Sony Cybershot. Edits done in <a href="http://pixlr.com/">pixlr.com</a>.</i></span></h3>
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Gurlayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12786636457565228373noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-418410919271527104.post-24840920907022128962019-03-23T19:25:00.001+08:002019-03-23T21:42:15.315+08:00A Weekend in Bacolod: First Stop - Campuestohan Resort<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Welcome everyone to the City of Smiles - Bacolod City! This is a must. As soon as you get off the plane, you should take this mandatory picture before officially entering the heart of Bacolod. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Although, with this trip, we went to Campuestohan first since it's nearer the airport and more logical to go straight there than to go to the city proper.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Campuestohan Highland Resort is situated in the mountains of Talisay City. It's about 21 kilometers from the Bacolod-Silay airport or 38 minutes and about 24 kilometers or 43 minutes from Bacolod City proper. This is a five-hectare resort overlooking Mt. Makawili. The roads are paved going to the resort except for a portion near a residential area that had holes. It's a two-way lane passing a vast expanse of sugarcane plantation. So, the scenery alone on the way is very relaxing. Especially, after a three-hour delayed flight.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The resort itself is easy to find as there are no other way to go. Just follow where the road leads uphill and you'll surely end up at the gate of the resort. There is a 200 peso entrance and if you want to do other activities like going through the hanging ropes or go swimming in the pools, it would be a different fee. We were only there for sight-seeing and of course, to take pictures. For those who own cars, there are parking lots. One is near the entrance which is paved, near the big shoe. And the other one is near the exit which is unpaved and right under the sun.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This is what you will see as you go in - the official Campuestohan jeepney. Yey! To your left is the mammoth pool with slides. There's also a wave pool. To your left is the parking lot and the big shoe. You will also see a statue of Atlas. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I really like this colorful interpretation of this famous world-carrying Greek God. I love books, so I would definitely always try to find anything bookworm-related.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Moving forward, right behind the official resort jeepney is the restaurant. Right in front of it is another Campuestohan sign where you can take a picture. We went in the restaurant since it's where the restrooms are. The restrooms are tiny. Only two cubicles. What I love about the restaurant though is their furniture. The tables and chairs are made of hardwood. Very sturdy. I was thinking of maybe having one in my soon-to-be dining room. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Right outside the restaurant, to the left is this building which looks like one you see in Netherlands and there's an Uncle Sam statue right outside. At the back of this building is a pond where there is a giant snail and a cute ferris wheel of giant buckets. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Right across the restaurant are two life-sized dinosaurs. A T-Rex and a Long Neck about to battle it out. You can see more dinosaurs as you go further into the resort. If you are a fan, or your kids love dinosaurs, there's actually an attraction solely dedicated to these Jurassic creatures. One very fascinating display is a set of three eggs where the new hatchlings pop in and out. We even heard three very cute kids talking about them. Nah, I wasn't able to take a picture of those eggs. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I think the best attraction in the whole resort was the Hobbit Village. They call it Bonita Huts. These are very picturesque and Instagram-perfect Hobbit cottages where you can just imagine Frodo or his Uncle Bilbo coming out the door to take their morning walk. And yes,</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">these cottages are for rent. Did I say the view is stunning?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">If you are not a fan of the The Lord of the Rings or The Hobbit, you can choose to stay in one of the tepees. Yes, they do have Indian tepee rooms also. They have a little Indian Village complete with a space for a camp fire to complete the camping ambiance. Very colorful too.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">If you feel tired of roaming around, you can sit in one of those benches under a tree. It's a perfect spot to read a good book too. You can also say hello to your favorite panda and his friends. Or you can try out their rope obstacle course, or their zipline. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">All in all, it's a good place to bond with your family and especially for kids. Most of these attractions are made with kids in mind. They have pools and the dinosaur park I mentioned earlier. I'm not sure if staying overnight here is a must since I don't think there's anything to do at night. I am not sure if they allow night swimming in their pools. But if you want to channel that inner Frodo Baggins, then be my guest, or more appropriately - be their guest and rent one of those hobbit-like accommodations.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">One thing we noticed while roaming around is that the resort isn't really that properly maintained. The grass were just allowed to grow excessively without trimming or in some areas, they were starting to brown. But it's a good enough place to visit when you are in Bacolod or near the area. The Hobbit Village alone is a must-see. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Please check out the my next posts on the rest of our Bacolod trip.</span></div>
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<i style="font-family: "courier new", courier, monospace;">Thanks Rhona Kaye for driving and for bringing me and Merly to Campuestohan. I will never forget this place since we had an experience here that is so funny that it's worth to be included in my next "My Funny Friend and Me" post. </i></div>
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Gurlayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12786636457565228373noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-418410919271527104.post-7564980811818239492019-03-04T11:34:00.011+08:002021-04-14T15:08:15.421+08:00Going Korean: Toppokki Man <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif">A friend and I are going to the Land of Kimchi in about a month</span><span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif">. In preparation for our trip, I have been researching on what we would include in our itinerary. So, I got all the details into a spreadsheet, what MRT line to take, where to get off, what exit to take and so on. Aside from that, I also put down the estimated cost for the attractions we are planning to see. </span><span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif">That way, we'll know how much the expected damage would be and we could work that into our budget. Above all else, I have always been curious about Korean food. Honestly, before this, the only Korean food I have ever tried are Korean ice cream, gim (seaweed snack) and bibimbap which I bought from one of the stalls in a popular mall chain which I did not like. Yes, that's the extent of my Korean culinary exploration. So, before going on this trip, I decided I should be familiar with the food. Deep in my heart, I have always been curious of that noodles in black sauce that's always featured in Korean novellas</span><span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif">. It's been my earnest desire to try that one. Fortunately, I have meet friends in the office who love Korean food. One even have a supplier of Kimchi which according to her is very good. I tried it but I wasn't very taken by it.</span></div>
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<span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif">Anyway, we all a</span><span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif">greed to eat at Toppokki Man in Rosedale Building, </span><span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif">right beside University of San Carlos Talamban Campus. Toppokki</span><span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif"> Man, </span><span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif">as I have found out, </span><span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif">serves authentic Korean food. The owner is actually Korean. She was there to direct the crew when were there. The space is not so big. During out visit, they had to ask some customers to wait first because there are no more tables available. They had to wait outside. Lucky for us, we were there at exactly 11:00 am which is the time </span><span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif">they open. My friends were already eating their Bibimbap when I arrived. They didn't want me to also order the Bibimbap because it didn't have a lot of toppings. </span><span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif">I ordered Tteokbokki which is stir-fried rice cakes i</span><span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif">n a spicy sauce. That's the cover picture above. That's actually the reason why we wanted to eat at Toppokki Man. I wanted to try their Tteobokki or Topokki, however they call it. </span><span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif">It's chewy and would just slide down your throat. I think it's good to be eaten while one of your friends is telling a story and </span><span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif">as you are lis</span><span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif">tening, you are also</span><span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif"> leisurely </span><span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif">munching on the rice cakes. It's not to be eaten in a hurry but rather to be savo</span><span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif">ur</span><span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif">ed. </span></div>
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<span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif">I first tasted this one in one of the stalls in Sugbu Mercato in IT Park. It also came with Odeng - a Korean fish cake that's usually on a stick. This is also a </span><span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif">very </span><span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif">popular </span><span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif">street food in Korean </span><span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif">dramas. The T</span><span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif">teokbokki and the Odeng go together. What we ordered was Topookki or Tt</span><span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif">eokbokki with mozzarella and an order of Odeng. It was also served on a stick but I removed the stick. The odeng arrived </span><span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif">after we finished the tteobokki, so I removed the stick and put it into the remaining sauce. </span></div>
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<span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif">Here's the complete menu of Toppokki Man. To my excitement, I forgot to take a picture of their menu board. I grabbed this one from Zomato.</span></div>
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<span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif">I al</span><span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif">so ordered the fried set which is a mix of different things. Dumpling, </span><span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif">sweet potato, eggplant and squash. There were two pieces of each.</span><span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif"> They didn't have squid at that time. I especially liked the squash and the sweet potato. Well, squash is my favorite vegetable so that's a given, but it did </span><span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif">taste very good battered and </span><span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif">fried.</span></div>
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<span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif">One of my friends also ordered Dakanjung. Fried chicken balls in spicy sauce. It's like the Korean version of Buffalo wings only, they are in balls instead of chicken wings. It was very good also. The chicken balls were bite-size. </span></div>
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<span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif">All in all, I liked the food at Toppokki Man. I would like to go back and sample all the other dishes there. It was just a bummer that they didn't serve Jajangmyeon, the black bean noodle I was talking about earlier. But then, my Korean food exploits does not end there. We are still planning to go to a Korean restaurant that serves Jajangmyeon and I will tell you about it once we've done that. So, stay tuned. </span></div>
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<span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif">As I have mentioned earlier, my friend has a supplier of Korean food. She's the wife of a Korean. Aside from Kimchi, she also sells tteokbokki and kimbap for 150 pesos. It was actually as good as that of Toppokki Man. The kimbap which is the Korean version of the Japanese maki, is also good. No need to be dipped in a sauce and it's also bite-size. I won't be trying hard not to choke while trying to cram the whole thing into my mouth.</span></div>
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<span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif">I can't wait to try </span><span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif">these food in the Korean markets in Seoul. </span><span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif">According to the blogs, it's where you can get authentic Korean food at very affordable prices. </span><span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif">Hmmm, my mouth is already watering and I can't wait to step into the Land of Kimich. I admit though, I am slowly becoming a fan of kimchi after actually trying a few spoons of the kimchi that my friend said to be as close as it gets to authentic kimchi.</span></div>
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Gurlayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12786636457565228373noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-418410919271527104.post-74164440936027674632019-02-06T05:11:00.003+08:002019-06-11T16:20:30.479+08:00Singapore: The Hawker Chronicles<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I have been to Singapore four times but only on my last trip was I able to eat at hawker stalls. Yes, it's unbelievable, right? My first trip to the Merlion City was with friends and it was also our first trip outside of the country. We were yet unsure of trying new food so we took the safe route--fast food. We ate at one foodcourt though in Bugis where there was rice, finally. Not every restaurant or eatery in Singapore serves rice. So, if you want one, the best place to go is of course, the nearest hawker stall. Hawker stalls are like the carenderia or eateries in the Philippines where you point what food you want on your plate. It's a lot cheaper than going into a fast food or a resto. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">My two next trips were with my family and we had my nephews with us who were a bit picky on food. We can't eat anywhere except at McDonald's. There was no Jollibee at that time yet. Even if my brother-in-law's flat was right across a hawker stall, we didn't try it because of the kids. We either had to cook food and pack them with us when we go out or do fast food. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">On my fourth trip, I was with a friend and after realizing that I haven't even tried any hawker food, she then told me that since we were on a budget, our meals will mostly likely be from hawker since it was a lot cheaper. At SGD2 you can already have two viands and rice. You will have a variety of viands to choose from. Sounds fun! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">For three weeks, whenever we go out, we always ended up eating at a hawker stall. I always brought water with me so I won't have to buy soft drinks or bottled water and of course, to save as much of our limited funds.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Here are some of the hawker foods I tried. I'm more of a vegetable and fish person. I am not so into meat. </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I call this hawker chronicles because I made sure to take pictures of every food I ordered or ate from a hawker stall. I will try to describe each plate as much as possible. So, here they are. Enjoy!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This was my first food I tried. It's a fish noodle soup. It tasted so good. The ingredients were fresh and the stall was so clean. In fact, the stall was featured in one of the local magazines as a must-eat place. This was at the Harbourfront. This costs SGD3.50.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This was in the Woodlands bus station. This is nasi lemak rice (coconut milk rice) with stir-fried vegies. The vegetables were mostly string beans and eggplant with sambal on the side. Sambal is a chili-based sauce. This meal cost about SGD1.50. This was OK. I wished it had other vegies in it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Does this look like from a fine dining resto? Well, look at that beautiful presentation. This is fried fish fingers with fries and salad on the side. This costs about SGD5.20. The stall was rated A in cleanliness and taste. Yes, this tasted as good as the picture.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This is the famous Malaysian laksa. This is a very spicy soup with seafood and noodles in it. This was really good. Cost is at SGD3.50. This was in a stall near Bishan MRT.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This is stir-fried bean sprouts and sweet and sour fish fillet. This was from a hawker stall in Chinatown. This was SGD1.50. Not bad, huh?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Stir-fried okra and sweet and sour pork. Yes, the Singaporeans love their sweet and sour dishes. The rice is fried rice or Yangchow rice as they call it. This was about SGD2.00. It would cost you extra if you want pork, or beef, or meat on your plate.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This one is stir-fried eggplant and tofu. Yes, the tofu is really good. I discovered in Singapore that tofu could also come in different variants. They have fish tofu which is my favorite, mushroom tofu and all others. This has cost me SGD1.50.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This is pineapple chicken and fried egg with chives. This was about $2.00. Again, there was meat so that had cost a bit more.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Oh, this one's the best. This is popiah. It's a spring roll with peanuts and peanut sauce. The first one I tried on my last trip before this was not impressive. This one however was so delicious. People are lining up to buy from this stall in Bishan. This is SGD1.50. It's worth every cent. Believe me! This is prepared right in front of you. All the ingredients are still hot and freshly-cooked. I even took a video of how this was prepared hoping I could actually make one at home. Nah, I haven't done it yet. I haven't attempted to make this on my own. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This is the stall who sells the best popiah, I think, in all of Singapore. It's near Bishan MRT and it opens from 4PM to 7PM.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The color of the day is yellow. The one on the left is obviously scrambled egg. You could never go wrong with eggs, right? The other one is actually squash or pumpkin. It was good. I love squash. It's my favorite vegetable so I just can't pass up the chance to try the Singaporean version. This cost about SGD1.50.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This one is fried chicken fingers and stir-fried bean sprouts. Yes, I always order vegies for every meal. I'm trying to eat healthy. Also, I'm not really a meat eater. This was $SGD1.75.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This is sweet and sour fish and eggs. Again, sweet and sour. It never grows old. This was about SGD1.50.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This is prawn mee. It's a noodle soup with prawns. You can have this with pork or chicken if you are allergic to seafood. This was very good. We had this in Toa Payoh. This was about SGD5.00 but it was so worth it. I didn't pay for this though. I was treated by one our friends. The owner of this stall happens to be the boss of my friend. The husband of the boss is the chef and the boss helps him during weekends. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This is the Singaporean version of stir-fried kangkong. It was good. It doesn't taste different from the one we have in the Philippines. Maybe, we learned this dish from the Chinese.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This one is deep fried chicken. You might say, "Ah, fried chicken. What's so special about that?" Well, this one used duck egg for the batter to make it crispy. This was good too. This was an ala carte order. This was about SGD8.00 to SGD12.00. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: justify;">For those who haven't been to Singapore, the hawker stalls have a separate store or stall for all drinks. Yes, you can choose from a row of stalls selling all the meals you can try but there's only one stall who sells drinks. And this one below is a water chestnut. It actually tasted like ice tea but only better. A lot better. I love this one! This is SGD1.50 a glass.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">So, the next time you're in the Merlion City, go and try the hawkers stalls. Believe me, you'll discover really delicious and affordable meals. Having a food trip at the different hawker stalls around Singapore is enough reason to visit this island-state. It's absolutely a feast for the senses, especially your taste buds. Most of all, the stalls are clean and all the vendors are required to have government permits. They are even encouraged to sell healthy foods like vegies and meat alternatives. Some stalls are even featured in magazines because of the quality of the service, cleanliness and of course, the taste.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Have you tried the hawker stalls in Singapore? Tell me about your experiences. Hit the comments below. </span></div>
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Gurlayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12786636457565228373noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-418410919271527104.post-85512603881679593392016-08-08T20:30:00.001+08:002019-06-11T16:19:10.157+08:00Where to Eat? New Food and Places to Eat in Cebu <div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I was born and raised in Cebu. Cebu for me is a haven for foodies. Cebuano's </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">are known for being hard to please. So, if you want to know if a product or a person would be a hit in the Philippines, you need to test it out in Cebu. Cebuano's </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">would tell you if it would likely succeed or not. We are not arrogant people but we just want the best value for our money. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">For the last 7 years, I have been working in Manila. I moved back last December and to my surprise a lot of new things have sprouted in Cebu. Even the rising trend of turning homes to restaurants has become a thing here.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Here are some of the the new dishes, </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">restaurants, diners and hole-in-the-wall places that are right on the budget and best for the tummy. You must try them. These are in no particular order.</span></div>
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<span style="color: orange; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>Southside Wings</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Located in one of the residential homes at the back of Country Mall, Banilad. Southside Wings has become one of the most-visited and hottest places for lunch and dinner. The place specializes in flavored chicken wings. The one I liked best is their Cajun wings. Just enough kick for those who want their chicken spicy. The price is very affordable too. You can get a whole plate of wings</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> for only PhP120.00. When we were there, we only paid around PhP620 for 5 people. </span></div>
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<span style="color: orange; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>Yakski </b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">It's like an updated version of Larsian. Larsian without the smoke and one of it's location is in a very trendy place here in Cebu, in IT Park, Apas, Lahug. The best thing about the place is their sauce. I was disappointed though when we were there because they did not have isaw (chicken intestines). </span><br />
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<span style="color: orange; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>NYPD Pizza and Pasta Buffet</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">One of the last places I have been too. I have visited it twice in a span of two weeks. It's an all you can eat pizza, pasta, chicken and fruits. They </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">boast of pizza in more than five flavors. Different pasta noodles in bolognese, carbonara and lasagna. They have fries, fried chicken and at least two kinds of fruits too. The best thing is all their pasta </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">and pizza are in authentic Italian flavors and the chefs are real Italians too. Per person charge is around </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">PhP300 including drinks. Children below 12 years old pay half the price.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The name may suggest that this is a desserts cafe but it doesn't just offer desserts. It also serves meals, pasta and sandwiches. One of the things I tried and liked was their Spanish sardines meal. Their lava cake and money bread </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">are</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">so d</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">elicious that you might </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">end up forgetting your name. This is one of my favorite dessert places also.</span><br />
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<b style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: orange;"><b style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: orange;">Ramen </span></b>Yushoken</span></b><b style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: orange;"> </span></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">A friend introduced me to ramen, not the instant ones but the authentic Japanese one. After trying the ramen at Yushoken, I became a ramen fan. They just opened a branch here in Cebu in Oakridge Center, A.S. Fortuna. I have not eaten in their store here in Cebu but have been visiting their shop in Alabang a few times. My usual order is the one with miso.</span></div>
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<span style="color: orange;"><b style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">Hala </b><b style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">Paella!</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">You are right! Paella! I have not tried it but judging from the number of people coming in and out of their cute kioks in Banilad Town Center, I bet the food here is a must-try. I had a glimpse of their prices too. It was as low as PhP80.00.</span><br />
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<span style="color: orange; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>10 Dove Street</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Aptly named for the location of its first store. It is not new but they just recently opened </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> two other branches in the city to be to able to </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">cater to more p</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">eople and their ever-growing clientelle.</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> One is in Escario and one in Oakridge, A. S. Fortuna, </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">the same place where Yoshuken Ramen is. The food is good but not that extraordinary. Their meatloaf serving is very big and very filling.</span><br />
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<span style="color: orange; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>Sachi</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">One of the most visited ramen places in Cebu. I always </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">see people posting their photos in Sachi on social media. </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I haven't tried it but one of these days, I will. They are mostly open </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">in the early evenings around 6pm.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I've tried Sachi in IT Park and I love their okonomiyaki, a Japanese pancake. Their ramen was okay. I''ve tasted something much better. Their gyoza was good and their takoyaki was okay. I've also tasted a better takoyaki from a food stall. Overall, the food was okay. The ambience and the decor was okay. Nothing to get excited about. But I do admit, the okonomiyaki was the best thing I had that we have ordered. I admit, I haven't tasted other okonomiyaki's before but Sachi's so far is really good. I ended up taking the rest of it since we didn't finish the whole serving. Their servings were okay also. The three of us shared the ramen. The takoyaki could do a better presentation. It was a bit charred. All in all, I was not sure what the hype was about. Maybe because the restaurant is new and they offered most of the common Japanese dishes which to one who haven't tried others would think Sachi's would be good enough. But no, I disagree. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">So, if you're looking for affordable Japanese food, try out Sachi but believe me, there's something else better. But do try their okonomiyaki, I think they nailed this one. </span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo is from Google.com</td></tr>
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<span style="color: orange; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>Zark's Burgers</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I am happy that this is now in Cebu. I tried eating there once in their LaSalle Taft branch and it was one of the most sumptous burgers I have ever tasted. Mouth-watering! Not o</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">nly tasty but very affordable as well. Around PhP150-300 depending on the type of burger you want. It has two branches in Cebu - SM City Reclamation, and SM Seaside City. </span></div>
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<span style="color: orange; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>Sugbo Mercado</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Just like Mercato Central in BGC, Taguig. Stalls featuring various local restaurants converge here every weekend nights, Thursdays </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">to Sundays. It was Fathers' Day when we were there so we didn't get a table. The smell alone could make you droll.</span><br />
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<span style="color: orange; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>Kuya J's</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">One of the newest Filipino restaurants here in Cebu. Their widely advertised special halo-halo is as they say i</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">t is - the ice is made from frozen milk which makes it really really good. Their crispy kangkong and monggo are delicious too.</span><br />
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<span style="color: orange; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>Buzz Cafe</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">If you are looking for something healthy, Buzz Cafe is the place to be.</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> This is the from the same company as the Bohol Bee Farm. All their food and products are organic. What I love is their salad with flower petals. I never thought bougainvillea petals would taste so good. Their lasagna noodles are made from cassava. They are using red rice. </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">They have gelato too.</span></div>
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<b style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: orange;">Cinnabon</span></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Yes, the famous American chain is now here in Cebu. Their branch is in SM Seaside City. For all cinnamon addicts like me. Heaven is here. It's a bit pricey though.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">Photo from Google</span></td></tr>
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<span style="color: orange; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>Tim Ho Wan</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This is soon to open in SM Seaside City. This is</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> an authentic Chinese cuisine from Hong Kong. This is a Michelin star casual dining restaurant. I really liked their pork buns. I have eaten with my friends </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">in their store in SM Megamall a few times. We have to join the long queue which seemed to be always the scene every weekend. Let's see if Cebuano's would be queuing to try this one.</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yACL_LSQENI/WcsWf-ZKSAI/AAAAAAAAMKE/4A2_3BYzuqEaUnLDOUdrODdBSh0VnORHQCLcBGAs/s1600/t2a-min.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="food at Tim Ho Wan Megamall by gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="567" data-original-width="426" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yACL_LSQENI/WcsWf-ZKSAI/AAAAAAAAMKE/4A2_3BYzuqEaUnLDOUdrODdBSh0VnORHQCLcBGAs/s400/t2a-min.jpg" title="food at Tim Ho Wan Megamall by gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="300" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: orange; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>La Lola Churreria</b></span><br />
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<span style="color: #7f6000; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: medium;">Their branch in Ayala Center Cebu just opened middle this year. Their churros are large and the prize is just fair enough. We chanced upon their opening day and got a free dip with our purchase. The churros were tasty but I think I have tasted a tastier one. They also have flavored churros available like green tea, cinnamon, etc.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #7f6000; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: medium;">What are you waiting for? Visit these places now so you would know what I am talking about.</span><br />
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Gurlayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12786636457565228373noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-418410919271527104.post-38866396951068880812016-07-21T18:59:00.000+08:002019-06-11T16:22:11.148+08:00Sleepless in Seattle?<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Ever find yourself sleepless in <b><span style="color: #783f04; font-size: large;">Seattle</span></b>? Fortunately for me, I didn't. But in case you do, here are some of the wonderful places you should see whenever you find yourself in the Emerald City.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">If you need a doze of caffeine, don't fret, you'll find </span><b style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #6fa8dc;">the first ever Starbucks </span></b><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">coffee in </span><span style="color: red; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Pike Place Market</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">. No wonder Seattle is called the coffee capital. This is where all the coffee shops started. Just one reminder, you need to bring with you a lot of patience as the line is really long, even in the early hours of the morning.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">On the same block, you will find assorted shops. We tried the Russian pastry with mouth-watering treats for breakfast. Piroshky, Piroshky... Of course, I ordered something with cinnamon - poppy seed raisin cinnamon. Yummy!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">If you don't want pastry for breakfast, you can try any of the fresh produce on the various stalls. You can choose from cherries, to apples, to berries, to nuts. Take your pick. Whatever your taste buds crave, you can find it here. It's truly a feast for the senses.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">They have fresh flowers and various greens too. Your eyes will have a grand feast of colors, smells and the feelings these sensations will cause.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">If you are nuts, I mean if you love nuts like pistachios, they have a few stalls that sell all kinds of nuts. You will surely go nuts deciding which to buy.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">If you want meat, fish, seafood, its here. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">In fact, one of the famous fish stalls here in Pike Place, or in the whole US, famous for its systematic way of cleaning, chopping and preparing fish ordered by customers. It's called the Flying fish. This stall is featured in Stephen Covey's 7 Habits of Highly Effective People as an example to emulate.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">If you fancy art, trinkets, accessories, cards, etc. You can find it here, too. We found a Filipino store selling accessories that are made from the Philippines. Yes, we got discounts.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">After getting dizzy with the sights and scents in Pike Place Market, we started our way to the waterfront. On the way there, we passed through Post Alley where the famous Gum Wall is. Yes, the Market Theater brick wall with thousands of chewed bubble gums! Yikes!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">On the <b><span style="color: #a64d79; font-size: large;">waterfront</span></b>, you will be treated to more sights. More kiosks selling various knick knacks from local artists, enthusiasts and manufacturers. There is a ferris wheel, restos you can dine in, boutiques, shops and the famous <b><span style="color: #660000; font-size: large;">Ye Old Curiosity Shop</span></b> for something bizarre and for souvenirs. I bought a lot of magnets shaped like the different US states. You can also see street musicians displaying their talents for mere change.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">After strolling and buying souvenirs on the waterfront, we walked to the city center and got on the <span style="color: #ffd966; font-size: large;"><b>monorail</b></span> to the Seattle Center. <b><span style="color: #274e13; font-size: large;">Seattle Center</span></b> is a park, arts and entertainment center. It is where the <span style="color: #20124d; font-size: large; font-weight: bold;">Space Needle </span>is.<span style="color: #20124d; font-size: large; font-weight: bold;"> </span>Since it was a Saturday, there were also a lot of food kiosks near the needle. It was a good day for a picnic. We bought our lunch of pancit (noodles) and lumpia (spring rolls) from a Filipino food stall and sat down comfortably on the grass to eat.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">View from the monorail. The silver structure is the Museum of Pop Culture or MoPop. Formerly known as the EMP Museum or the Experience Music Project and Science Fiction Museum and Hall of Fame.</span><br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5YGp7SzXXK4/WcslqipFZ4I/AAAAAAAAMMY/7Vav1j-lWy8YdTJJUfk3olw7SmsdqpH0wCEwYBhgL/s1600/e21-min.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="EMP museum Seattle by gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5YGp7SzXXK4/WcslqipFZ4I/AAAAAAAAMMY/7Vav1j-lWy8YdTJJUfk3olw7SmsdqpH0wCEwYBhgL/s640/e21-min.jpg" title="EMP museum Seattle by gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qfm1SqsxRAQ/Wcslq_9ASJI/AAAAAAAAMMo/oRDcOxNcoaMIBveQvYezR31ztedsnTWMwCEwYBhgL/s1600/e23-min.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="pacific science center seattle by gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qfm1SqsxRAQ/Wcslq_9ASJI/AAAAAAAAMMo/oRDcOxNcoaMIBveQvYezR31ztedsnTWMwCEwYBhgL/s640/e23-min.jpg" title="pacific science center seattle by gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">A beer garden right near the foot of the Space Needle. Yes, drinking starts early here. Just be sure to have your ID handy and that you are 21 years old.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The famous Space Needle. We didn't go up because the queue was too long.</span><br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rzt_h3-38-Q/Wcsmk9kNkyI/AAAAAAAAMM0/y4CRzNKFOqwEnfOKXcIHU_RecRDedV3VwCLcBGAs/s1600/e25-min.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="mandatory solo pic with the Space Needle in the background | gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rzt_h3-38-Q/Wcsmk9kNkyI/AAAAAAAAMM0/y4CRzNKFOqwEnfOKXcIHU_RecRDedV3VwCLcBGAs/s640/e25-min.jpg" title="mandatory solo pic with the Space Needle in the background | gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="480" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eFT2QWIrZQE/Wcsmkvud9BI/AAAAAAAAMMs/jPQ7j4l0rIcvBDwuAPperqtCdbHUt2pCACLcBGAs/s1600/e26-min.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Space Needle framed by trees by gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eFT2QWIrZQE/Wcsmkvud9BI/AAAAAAAAMMs/jPQ7j4l0rIcvBDwuAPperqtCdbHUt2pCACLcBGAs/s640/e26-min.jpg" title="Space Needle framed by trees by gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Near the Space Needle is an incredible glass exhibit of Dale Chihuly. He went to China to study glass blowing and his pieces are really astounding.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">It all starts with this. Simple, transparent and can be displayed on table tops.</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ppeVx-8zwks/Wcsmk9YAqbI/AAAAAAAAMMw/EhhA6SaWtekQCJlS4Ql6kL5beB1dFWOrQCEwYBhgL/s1600/e27-min.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="transparent glass art by Chihuly by gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ppeVx-8zwks/Wcsmk9YAqbI/AAAAAAAAMMw/EhhA6SaWtekQCJlS4Ql6kL5beB1dFWOrQCEwYBhgL/s640/e27-min.jpg" title="transparent glass art by Chihuly by gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Then there are fixtures for the ceiling. This is known as the Persian ceiling.</span><br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MA4XJFYlN14/WcsmlrkqJ0I/AAAAAAAAMM4/Ir5nJEDcgzky7lGNQnxew0tdwXDepYmXgCEwYBhgL/s1600/e28-min.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Persian ceiling by Chihuly by gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MA4XJFYlN14/WcsmlrkqJ0I/AAAAAAAAMM4/Ir5nJEDcgzky7lGNQnxew0tdwXDepYmXgCEwYBhgL/s640/e28-min.jpg" title="Persian ceiling by Chihuly by gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The Nijima Floats. There are multiple variations of this.</span><br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-P22qvZxwMY8/WcsnFooyV2I/AAAAAAAAMNI/s0P-7GB5wZ0vPhhDlpVY8NfiI0iBQAyfgCLcBGAs/s1600/329-min.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Nijima floats by Chihuly | photo by gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-P22qvZxwMY8/WcsnFooyV2I/AAAAAAAAMNI/s0P-7GB5wZ0vPhhDlpVY8NfiI0iBQAyfgCLcBGAs/s640/329-min.jpg" title="Nijima floats by Chihuly | photo by gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Below is the Sea Form Series. Featuring the flori of the sea. It occupies a really large floor space. Probably, one long corridor.</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-x0B0AmJF5ps/WcsnFR2hfcI/AAAAAAAAMNA/9O4-UMCZd_wJNClPju_fCTV90v91-xjfgCLcBGAs/s1600/330-min.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Flori of the sea by Chihuly | photo by gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-x0B0AmJF5ps/WcsnFR2hfcI/AAAAAAAAMNA/9O4-UMCZd_wJNClPju_fCTV90v91-xjfgCLcBGAs/s640/330-min.jpg" title="Flori of the sea by Chihuly | photo by gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">And then, there's the sun which is an outdoor sculpture.</span><br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lQa8w83nzeQ/WcsnFRj88dI/AAAAAAAAMNE/OXAzTx0plD4ZdjFEwR-rCvsx_CZ_hJa8gCEwYBhgL/s1600/331-min.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Sun by Chihuly | photo by gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lQa8w83nzeQ/WcsnFRj88dI/AAAAAAAAMNE/OXAzTx0plD4ZdjFEwR-rCvsx_CZ_hJa8gCEwYBhgL/s640/331-min.jpg" title="The Sun by Chihuly | photo by gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Here's the Ikebana. Inspired by the Japanese flower arrangement. This is hanging from the glass dome which gives a different perspective of the Seattle Needle.</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2DELwMdBARw/WcsnGFagykI/AAAAAAAAMNM/KCTEdxWbbbIVFSL5FnZ7GSCx1ImNQX9YwCEwYBhgL/s1600/332-min.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Ikebana by Chihuly | photo by gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2DELwMdBARw/WcsnGFagykI/AAAAAAAAMNM/KCTEdxWbbbIVFSL5FnZ7GSCx1ImNQX9YwCEwYBhgL/s640/332-min.jpg" title="Ikebana by Chihuly | photo by gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">After all those treat of colors and hues. You can drive down to the Puget Sound to relax. Maybe do a little fishing or shrimping or just get some fresh air or just wait for the sun set. There are also some restaurants by the bay where you can have dinner. We ate at Anthony's.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Yes, on the way to the boardwalk. You will pass by a patch of really fragrant lavenders. Just beautiful!</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-X7DjhjgM454/WcsnGosTzyI/AAAAAAAAMNU/Ttc4kRlFNAk6rbrVb9lryaW0JLmaCrL4wCEwYBhgL/s1600/334-min.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="lavender at Puget Sound waterfront by gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-X7DjhjgM454/WcsnGosTzyI/AAAAAAAAMNU/Ttc4kRlFNAk6rbrVb9lryaW0JLmaCrL4wCEwYBhgL/s640/334-min.jpg" title="lavender at Puget Sound waterfront by gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rHXyox3VKyA/WcsnGxB0YaI/AAAAAAAAMNY/rOk4A7rfQRUpWJOf-9l-7-ODpHcRhdFCQCEwYBhgL/s1600/335-min.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="the boardwalk at Puget Sound by gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rHXyox3VKyA/WcsnGxB0YaI/AAAAAAAAMNY/rOk4A7rfQRUpWJOf-9l-7-ODpHcRhdFCQCEwYBhgL/s640/335-min.jpg" title="the boardwalk at Puget Sound by gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MuS9o_e88Zw/WcsnmTqAKzI/AAAAAAAAMNc/CbTZ_RZ4rgAqs1-_9qOdxIPYjyuDQrBYgCLcBGAs/s1600/336-min.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="fishing by the Puget Sound by gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MuS9o_e88Zw/WcsnmTqAKzI/AAAAAAAAMNc/CbTZ_RZ4rgAqs1-_9qOdxIPYjyuDQrBYgCLcBGAs/s640/336-min.jpg" title="fishing by the Puget Sound by gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">And to top it all and wrap-up our day was a stunning view of the sunset. </span><br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IG77_g5d1Uo/Wcsnmn_hNtI/AAAAAAAAMNk/5i3djSo1Rrses6xVW6ZZ874Sou9KcmyhACLcBGAs/s1600/337-min.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="fishing by the Puget Sound by gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IG77_g5d1Uo/Wcsnmn_hNtI/AAAAAAAAMNk/5i3djSo1Rrses6xVW6ZZ874Sou9KcmyhACLcBGAs/s640/337-min.jpg" title="fishing by the Puget Sound by gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">These are all during the day. Imagine them at night. It's a totally different scene. Probably, more festive and vibrant.</span><br />
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<i><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Some pictures of the gum wall were grabbed from Rudee and Arien.</span></i><br />
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<i><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><br /></span></i>Gurlayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12786636457565228373noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-418410919271527104.post-79558228341951814512016-07-18T19:25:00.001+08:002017-09-27T15:15:14.443+08:00The Boston Freedom Trail<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I was fortunate to have a training in Andover, Massachusetts way back in 2013. On a weekend, we were so excited to explore Boston, one of the famous cities in the world. For the Americans, Boston, is the most historic and one of the oldest cities. It is one of the key cities that played a vital role in the American Revolution. So, with our very eager guide, who has explored the freedom trail in her previous visits to Boston, we are off to follow the steps of the famed American revolutionaries.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The Boston Freedom Trail is 2.5 kilometers in length and if you don't have a guide, you can just follow the red line that runs through the city. That famous red line will take you to 16 important and historic sites in Commonwealth-time Massachusetts.</span></div>
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<span style="color: cyan; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b>Quincy Market</b></span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">This was our starting point. It's a historic market complex near Faneuil Hall. Constructed in 1824-1826 in honor of Mayor Josiah Quincy. It is still an active market place. This was where we had lunch. It boasts of different food from different parts of the US like steak and barbecue from Texas, Mexican, Italian, various delicious American pies, etc.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Pies, anyone? Take your pick from various mouth-watering pies.</span></div>
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<span style="color: blue; font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Right beside Quincy Market is</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"> </span><b style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="color: cyan;">Faneuil Hall</span></b><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">. Faneuil Hall is near the waterfront and is now part of the marketplace buildings which includes three more buildings such as the Quincy Market, the North Market and the South Market. There is a statue of Samuel Adams right outside it. Adams used to deliver speeches here to encourage independence from the British and because of these speeches, Faneuil Hall has become widely known as the "Home of the Free Speech" and the "Cradle of Liberty".</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: cyan; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b>King's Chapel and Burying Ground</b></span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The King's Chapel is the first Anglican church where the elite attend mass services. Rich families buy a box where their family can stay and sit throughout the service. Those who can't afford stayed on the side or on the second floor. Adjacent to the church is a graveyard which was Boston proper's only burying site for 30 years. MA first Governor John Winthrop and Mayflower's first woman to step off, Mary Chilton, are both buried here.</span></div>
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<span style="color: blue; font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="color: cyan; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Boston Common </span></b></span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">America's oldest public park. It was a common grazing ground for sheep and cattle. In the modern day, it is the site for rallies and all other activities. While we were there, there was a protest clamoring for the needs of American soldiers. Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr. spoke here and Pope John Paul II held a mass in this park also.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">If you follow this path, it will lead you straight to a gate. Right beside the gate is a big memorial for the </span><span style="color: cyan; font-size: large;"><b>Shaw-54th regiment</b></span>, in commemoration for the outstanding contributions of the soldiers of the Civil War. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="text-align: justify;">Fronting the memorial is the famous </span><span style="color: cyan; font-size: large; font-weight: bold; text-align: justify;">Massachusetts State House</span><span style="text-align: justify;">.</span><span style="color: blue; font-size: large; font-weight: bold; text-align: justify;"> </span><span style="text-align: justify;">The land for the State House was originally used as John Hancock's cow pasture. Today, the State House is one of the oldest buildings in Beacon Hill.</span></span><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: cyan; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Park Street Church</span></span></b></h3>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The 217-foot steeple of the church was once the first landmark seen by travelers when approaching Boston. As it's name suggest this church is located on Park Street. One of the most important protests against slavery was held in this church.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: black; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Quc4dOyQTTY/WcsvWVLRL5I/AAAAAAAAMPQ/cUBCV6I7IiAqOeBjUXZa2IOYKIXv-Z5vwCEwYBhgL/s1600/b19-min.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Park Street Church Boston steeple by gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Quc4dOyQTTY/WcsvWVLRL5I/AAAAAAAAMPQ/cUBCV6I7IiAqOeBjUXZa2IOYKIXv-Z5vwCEwYBhgL/s640/b19-min.jpg" title="Park Street Church Boston steeple by gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="480" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">On the way to Boston Common, you will pass by the Granary Burying Ground. This is where most of America's notable citizens where buried like Benjamin Franklin's parents, revolutionaries like Paul Revere, Samuel Adams, James Otis, all five of Boston's Massacre victims and Peter Faneuil.</span></div>
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<b><span style="color: cyan; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Old City Hall and Benjamin Franklin Statue</span></b></h3>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Boston's Old City Hall is now a restaurant. Right outside it is a statue of Benjamin Franklin. 38 Mayors served their terms in this building like John F. Fritzgerald. This office was used over 128 years.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">On the same street is the Boston Latin School where Benjamin Franklin was one of the students. I think this accounts for the statue of Franklin in the premises. Boston Latin School is still in operation but is now in the Fenway area of Boston.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">This is the oldest commercial building in Boston. It was originally built as an apothecary and home. It later became a center for American book publishing in the 1800's when Boston became the country's literary mecca. The first published editions of Mark Twain, Henry David Thoreau, Louisa May Alcott and Ralph Waldo Emerson were born here. There were several bookstores that operated here. Currently it houses a number of restaurants and shops.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The Old State House is a symbol of liberty which stood for over 300 years. This was where a many of the key events of the American Revolution took place like the declaration of the independence. Now it has become a museum which details all the efforts to achieve America's independence. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; text-align: justify;">The famous John Hancock, which in modern day, the same name is synonymous to a signature, was one of the people who signed the American Declaration of Independence.</span><br />
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<span style="text-align: start;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">When we visited, there was an on-going tour and we joined. The guide was very passionate about the history and she explained about what really happened during the famous Boston Massacre. It turned out, it was just a misunderstanding. It was Paul Revere who labeled it as "Boston Massacre". His widely circulated illustration of the massacre has brought a lot of sympathy and hate for the British troops.</span></span></div>
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<b style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: cyan; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Boston Tea Party Museum</span></b><br />
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<span style="color: blue; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Boston Tea Party or as what John Adams initially referred to as the Destruction of Tea in Boston. As we all know, the British are famous for their teas. As a sign of defiance for the British rule, citizens dressed as Native Americans destroyed boxes of tea shipment from East India Company by throwing them overboard into the Boston Harbor.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; text-align: justify;">Today, tourists and locals alike can take part in the reenactment. Participants dress in costumes and get on the ship moored near the museum and do exactly as what the demonstrators did before. The museum is also a souvenir shop. It displays really cute sets of tea cup and various items for sale. We did our shopping here for souvenirs for friends in the Philippines.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Boston felt like where the heart of America is. It has been the center of the American Revolution and Independence. I was fortunate to walk in the same streets as Benjamin Franklin, Samuel Adams and other famous American revolutionaries who fought and died for the land we now call the "land of the free". It was another way of getting to know the American culture. It was definitely worth a half-day of walking around the city. </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">And to culminate our tour, we went to </span><span style="color: cyan; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large; font-weight: bold;">Harvard University in Cambridge</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">.</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Yes, Harvard, the famous Ivy-league school. It has been a dream-come true.</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; text-align: justify;">For first-timers and tourists, it is a must to rub John Harvard's toe for luck. The statue is not actually the real face of Harvard as no one seems to know how he looked like. The statue was modeled after one of the students who was a descendant of the brother of the fourth president of Harvard.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">We took our pictures outside The Harry Elkins Widener Memorial Library, never mind the photo bomber in pink shorts. Probably, the biggest library I have seen from the outside. It was closed. It was July when we were there - summer vacation. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; text-align: justify;">We roamed the grounds and the square. People were having a picnic and some just lounge and hang out with their friends. </span><br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IYM4akY1DAw/WcsyRBmmDFI/AAAAAAAAMQg/fx__S_Ed9N4OH9jDRyLjUoMG_e3tY7FoQCLcBGAs/s1600/37-min.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Harvard U grounds by gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IYM4akY1DAw/WcsyRBmmDFI/AAAAAAAAMQg/fx__S_Ed9N4OH9jDRyLjUoMG_e3tY7FoQCLcBGAs/s640/37-min.jpg" title="Harvard U grounds by gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; text-align: justify;">Our last stop was for souvenirs. We can't leave Harvard without buying a shirt and a magnet to commemorate this momentous day of our lifetime. We bought shirts from the Harvard Bookstore.</span><br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Z6Aoe71F8lc/WcsyRCNIjcI/AAAAAAAAMQk/DhZXEPBUJnw4G3iMJwQk8ZzpmyB5RRYpwCLcBGAs/s1600/38-min.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Harvard bookstore by gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Z6Aoe71F8lc/WcsyRCNIjcI/AAAAAAAAMQk/DhZXEPBUJnw4G3iMJwQk8ZzpmyB5RRYpwCLcBGAs/s640/38-min.jpg" title="Harvard bookstore by gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i><b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">In the words of John Harvard:</span></b></i><br />
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<i><b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">He gazes for a moment into the future, so dim, so uncertain, yet so full of promise which has been more than realized.</span></b></i><br />
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<i>Some of the pictures were grabbed from my very close friends (Rudee and Arien) who were with me on the trip. I can't access my other pictures as my external hd was corrupted. Info sources are Wiki and <a href="http://www.thefreedomtrail.org/pdfs/Freedom%20Trail%20Foundation%20Brochure%202016.pdf">www.thefreedometrail.org</a>.</i><br />
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<br />Gurlayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12786636457565228373noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-418410919271527104.post-84601507365980258442016-06-13T20:58:00.000+08:002019-02-05T05:45:23.536+08:00The Kingdom of Kampuchea<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: red;">Kampuchea</span>,</span> now widely known as Cambodia. It was once known also as the Khmer Empire. It's located at the southern portion of the Indochina peninsula, bordered by Thailand, Laos, Vietnam and the Gulf of Thailand. The capital is Phnom Penh. Language spoken is Khmer and their currency is Riel. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">One of their famous places is Siem Reap, probably the most-visited part of Cambodia. About a 6-hour bus ride from the capital city Phnom Penh. It's a resort town in the northwestern part of Cambodia. The site of the world famous Angkor Wat, the capital of the Khmer city in its heyday. Angkor Wat is Sanskrit for "City of Temples." It boasts of more than 162 hectares of temple complex built in the early 12th century as a Hindu temple for the Khmer Empire. The sandstones used for the construction were taken from the mountains and were transported by raft. It's really a wonder of engineering and architecture.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Visiting Cambodia and seeing Angkot Wat was part of my bucket list. I have always been intrigued by ruins, really old temples and lost civilizations. It was March in 2011. The trip was via Saigon (Ho Chi Mihn City, Vietnam) since there were no direct flights yet to Siem Reap. From Saigon, we took a 12-hour limousine bus ride to Siem Reap. Yes, 12 hours, but it was a very relaxing ride. One thing to remember when in Cambodia, there is no hurry. Our driver just took his leisurely pace. No need to overtake or step on the gas. I think stress is not in their vocabulary. It was probably the easiest yet the longest ride of our lives. And this trip was my most memorable yet.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Enjoy the ride...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="text-align: center;">The Vietnam- Cambodia border--our passports were stamped and we were granted entry to Cambodia. I officially welcome you all to Cambodia!</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Welcome to Cambodia!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Right outside the border is a city of casinos. Makes me wonder who goes to these casinos. As far as I know the people in Cambodia are not rich. Tourists, probably?</span></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5YYugZlL6ds/WcuC1upsJWI/AAAAAAAAMbM/pRHQNA-1SME1Y5q-oj1a-SlR0OEVZoqIgCLcBGAs/s1600/cam2a%2B%25281%2529-min.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="casinos at the Cambodian border by gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5YYugZlL6ds/WcuC1upsJWI/AAAAAAAAMbM/pRHQNA-1SME1Y5q-oj1a-SlR0OEVZoqIgCLcBGAs/s640/cam2a%2B%25281%2529-min.jpg" title="casinos at the Cambodian border by gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Welcome to the Capital City. This was just a quick stop. After a 6-hour ride from Saigon, we have reached Phnom Penh. From here is another 6-hour trip to Siem Reap, our final destination. From here is another tourist destination--Sihanoukville, a coastal city at the southwest tip of the Peninsula. It's a 3-hour ride from the capital. Some Europeans who were on our bus were headed for the beaches of Sihanoukville. No, we didn't know about this place. It was not part of our itinerary. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Here are a few things we saw.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This gold-domed structure is Phnom Penh's central market. It is said to be the biggest market in Asia.</span></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--skJQVqxUzU/WcuDEYmhvcI/AAAAAAAAMbU/PdNQkU9vOu40z8DJx1V3jDZ8I5LkehhtwCLcBGAs/s1600/cam4a%2B%25281%2529-min.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Phnom Penh's central market by gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--skJQVqxUzU/WcuDEYmhvcI/AAAAAAAAMbU/PdNQkU9vOu40z8DJx1V3jDZ8I5LkehhtwCLcBGAs/s640/cam4a%2B%25281%2529-min.jpg" title="Phnom Penh's central market by gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">A jade-colored temple we passed by on our way. This looked to be just recently built and very modern.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Our bus has to get on a barge to cross over a part of Mekong River to get to the opposite bank and continue on our journey to Siem Reap.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: center;">One of the older temples seen along the roads of Phnom Penh.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="text-align: center;">Around Cambodia, altars like this can be seen in almost outside every home.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This is how their house looked like. Mostly situated above ground. No ground floors. These were mostly seen on the countryside.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">These are more modern houses that are up to three or four floors up. These were commonly seen in the city. I think they have a fetish for heights.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">These arches are so common in Cambodia. They come in different designs.They are like welcome signs for every place or village. Probably, like an indication for each barangay (smallest settlement) in the Philippines.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We have arrived. When we got to our hotel, we were received warmly. We were offered pineapple drinks and handed complimentary scarves which were good souvenirs also. We rested to be ready for the next day's adventures.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Below are some of the pictures I took. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This was a lucky shot. I spotted this head of a statue. I took this while the bus was on the go.</span></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tcxhoC0QsrE/WcuWsk0y36I/AAAAAAAAMcc/lxO2A2yawl8Kl46sd345H6kQ6c4ZzvweACLcBGAs/s1600/c12a%2B%25281%2529-min.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="head of a statue siem reap by gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="406" data-original-width="640" height="406" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tcxhoC0QsrE/WcuWsk0y36I/AAAAAAAAMcc/lxO2A2yawl8Kl46sd345H6kQ6c4ZzvweACLcBGAs/s640/c12a%2B%25281%2529-min.jpg" title="head of a statue siem reap by gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #191919; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: justify;">One of the buildings in Siem Reap. Again, with an arch. Welcome to Siem Reap!</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1wr2Zsx0Nxw/WcuWs_G7AuI/AAAAAAAAMcg/YLushgjgzqkbcJeroUctscyguEZ-NkrDQCLcBGAs/s1600/c13a%2B%25281%2529-min.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Siem Repa building by gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1wr2Zsx0Nxw/WcuWs_G7AuI/AAAAAAAAMcg/YLushgjgzqkbcJeroUctscyguEZ-NkrDQCLcBGAs/s640/c13a%2B%25281%2529-min.jpg" title="Siem Repa building by gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: center;">Angkor Wat visitor center. This is also where we bought our tickets for the tour. Tourists can choose from various options-three, two and a day tour. There is even a week. We had the day tour. Our guide was Nokia. He was contacted by Mother Goose Guesthouse (our booked hotel) to accompany us for the whole day.</span><br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XtdD7BIpRVk/WcuXnwNo3OI/AAAAAAAAMcs/Sy4nv8TtF5Iq-nxPtqQ9lh_eWDsCfjQZACLcBGAs/s1600/c14%2B%25281%2529-min.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Angkor Wat visitor center by gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XtdD7BIpRVk/WcuXnwNo3OI/AAAAAAAAMcs/Sy4nv8TtF5Iq-nxPtqQ9lh_eWDsCfjQZACLcBGAs/s640/c14%2B%25281%2529-min.jpg" title="Angkor Wat visitor center by gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: center;">Yes, it cost us USD20 for the day tour. They took our picture to put into pass. This is like your passport to the Angkor City and I kept this as souvenir too.</span></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rojJztvsNkE/WcuXnh_CoqI/AAAAAAAAMco/XG3xJI55olo-p0-WxEOP9xd2MgcjXgwjACLcBGAs/s1600/c15a%2B%25281%2529-min.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Ankor one day pass by gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="496" data-original-width="640" height="496" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rojJztvsNkE/WcuXnh_CoqI/AAAAAAAAMco/XG3xJI55olo-p0-WxEOP9xd2MgcjXgwjACLcBGAs/s640/c15a%2B%25281%2529-min.jpg" title="Ankor one day pass by gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: black; color: white;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">It means under the bird's wing. It was the first temple we visited. It was near the south gate of Bayon Temple. The temple has four entrances from each side. We tried going up the stairs to reach the top but they were so steep and most of the steps were eroded already. We stayed up to the 1st flight only. Better safe than sorry</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WBaCOY6Fd7A/WcuYvggKMgI/AAAAAAAAMc8/3IQVBz8oMDMZB4z0vLmozu4DfsqgyBovQCLcBGAs/s1600/c16a%2B%25281%2529-min.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Baksei Cham Krong by gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WBaCOY6Fd7A/WcuYvggKMgI/AAAAAAAAMc8/3IQVBz8oMDMZB4z0vLmozu4DfsqgyBovQCLcBGAs/s640/c16a%2B%25281%2529-min.jpg" title="Baksei Cham Krong by gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="text-align: center;">I don't know who took this picture as all us where in it including our tour guide. Oh, it was Merly.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-a4f1kRPPM5E/WcuYvCN-SkI/AAAAAAAAMc0/wxSLwFRQ8K882b7k5TaWs7AbpxTCUCP7wCLcBGAs/s1600/c17a%2B%25281%2529-min.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="groupie at Baksei Cham Krong by gurlayas,blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-a4f1kRPPM5E/WcuYvCN-SkI/AAAAAAAAMc0/wxSLwFRQ8K882b7k5TaWs7AbpxTCUCP7wCLcBGAs/s640/c17a%2B%25281%2529-min.jpg" title="groupie at Baksei Cham Krong by gurlayas,blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">One of the lesser temples near Baksei Cham Krong.</span><br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3Fe1gh8MoMo/WcuYvR5k84I/AAAAAAAAMc4/cF2DfJN2x1wBdNYgXTOlknvaJTuEL71xgCLcBGAs/s1600/c18a%2B%25281%2529-min.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="lesser temple Baksei Cham Krong by gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3Fe1gh8MoMo/WcuYvR5k84I/AAAAAAAAMc4/cF2DfJN2x1wBdNYgXTOlknvaJTuEL71xgCLcBGAs/s640/c18a%2B%25281%2529-min.jpg" title="lesser temple Baksei Cham Krong by gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: center;">Side view of Baksei Cham Krong.</span><br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uGfbtLF458g/WcuY_jyo50I/AAAAAAAAMdI/ORk9S7KsV7Mno3X9-GM-IBJ9YmUKb3sMACLcBGAs/s1600/c19a%2B%25281%2529-min.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="side view Baksei Cham Krong by gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uGfbtLF458g/WcuY_jyo50I/AAAAAAAAMdI/ORk9S7KsV7Mno3X9-GM-IBJ9YmUKb3sMACLcBGAs/s640/c19a%2B%25281%2529-min.jpg" title="side view Baksei Cham Krong by gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The ruins of another lesser temple in the compound of Baksei Cham Krong. This was near the lagoon. Yes, that thing poking in the middle is a male organ. Most of the temples in Angkor have statues of male and female reproductive organs. I guess, for fertility.</span></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dn7-LHTKdmM/WcuY-D-h2_I/AAAAAAAAMdA/HmqrBlvEjUkuv-kloh5qsTViwmZr8WfFQCLcBGAs/s1600/c20a%2B%25281%2529-min.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="ruins Baksei Cham Krong by gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dn7-LHTKdmM/WcuY-D-h2_I/AAAAAAAAMdA/HmqrBlvEjUkuv-kloh5qsTViwmZr8WfFQCLcBGAs/s640/c20a%2B%25281%2529-min.jpg" title="ruins Baksei Cham Krong by gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: center;">A replica of a royal boat that was resting at the edge of the lagoon.</span><br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Mhh8O8MMU_s/WcuY-QqxXWI/AAAAAAAAMdE/nQaz8fLX1XMsPVbAFFUh6Ouvkz8NJYBBwCLcBGAs/s1600/c21a%2B%25281%2529-min.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="royal barge by gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Mhh8O8MMU_s/WcuY-QqxXWI/AAAAAAAAMdE/nQaz8fLX1XMsPVbAFFUh6Ouvkz8NJYBBwCLcBGAs/s640/c21a%2B%25281%2529-min.jpg" title="royal barge by gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="line-height: 18px; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Bayon is one of the largest temples in Angkor City. It sits in the center of the of the capital of the city of Angkor which is Angkor Thom. In the old days, there were designated entrances for different classes - for common people the south, the priests the west, the dead the east side, the royal family, the soldiers and so on. The temple entrance is bordered on the right side (going in) by the statues of bad spirits and the statues of good spirits on the left. The famous feature of Bayon are the smiling serene stone faces.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="text-align: center;">The main gate of the Bayon Temple. </span></span><br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-h5QEHH6LPBk/WcubIGyjTjI/AAAAAAAAMd4/ONtyRMeXGS8d1nvbZQTRHbUtDa4CNYVCACLcBGAs/s1600/cam0a%2B%25281%2529-min.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="main gate Bayon Temple by gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-h5QEHH6LPBk/WcubIGyjTjI/AAAAAAAAMd4/ONtyRMeXGS8d1nvbZQTRHbUtDa4CNYVCACLcBGAs/s640/cam0a%2B%25281%2529-min.jpg" title="main gate Bayon Temple by gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="text-align: center;">A closer look at the face on top of the gate.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Du33z6JX0bs/WcuZRXWNXEI/AAAAAAAAMdM/-_heFoibuxgwJp7B5kXFkcmNOTsOEFzhQCLcBGAs/s1600/c22a%2B%25281%2529-min.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="top of the gate Bayon Temple by gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Du33z6JX0bs/WcuZRXWNXEI/AAAAAAAAMdM/-_heFoibuxgwJp7B5kXFkcmNOTsOEFzhQCLcBGAs/s640/c22a%2B%25281%2529-min.jpg" title="top of the gate Bayon Temple by gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: center;">The statues of bad spirits on the right side of the gate of Bayon. It overlooks the river.</span><br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Regt5ku8z9g/WcuZRtBBXOI/AAAAAAAAMdQ/sKWGnkzwXUQrKATp7WMar9AhfrgJ9eO8wCLcBGAs/s1600/c23a%2B%25281%2529-min.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="bad spirits statue Bayon temple by gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Regt5ku8z9g/WcuZRtBBXOI/AAAAAAAAMdQ/sKWGnkzwXUQrKATp7WMar9AhfrgJ9eO8wCLcBGAs/s640/c23a%2B%25281%2529-min.jpg" title="bad spirits statue Bayon temple by gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #191919;">The other side of the gate. This is the view when you are facing the gate and if you are about to go out.</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SKjrfi_oJXI/WcuZRw5N5vI/AAAAAAAAMdU/SA0dkRIeh8060isFWmqcNmrUWGGEATjVACLcBGAs/s1600/c24a%2B%25281%2529-min.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="gate Bayon temple by gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SKjrfi_oJXI/WcuZRw5N5vI/AAAAAAAAMdU/SA0dkRIeh8060isFWmqcNmrUWGGEATjVACLcBGAs/s640/c24a%2B%25281%2529-min.jpg" title="gate Bayon temple by gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #191919; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: center;">One of the entrances to the temple.</span><br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Kd8Q5Ae97pg/WcuZSUwLxqI/AAAAAAAAMdY/fTX0gBWuNfgSRrSF9vtEYP6mmhF6VhO8QCLcBGAs/s1600/c25a%2B%25281%2529-min.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="other entrances Bayon temple by gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Kd8Q5Ae97pg/WcuZSUwLxqI/AAAAAAAAMdY/fTX0gBWuNfgSRrSF9vtEYP6mmhF6VhO8QCLcBGAs/s640/c25a%2B%25281%2529-min.jpg" title="other entrances Bayon temple by gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #191919; text-align: center;">Another side of the temple. Don't ask me what side? I have no idea.</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Y3O6yT0QdnE/WcuZSnOpiuI/AAAAAAAAMdc/sVfM1TUcGKEaPac7-FwvPrAn1_svLaf6ACLcBGAs/s1600/c26a%2B%25281%2529-min.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="other side of Bayon temple by gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Y3O6yT0QdnE/WcuZSnOpiuI/AAAAAAAAMdc/sVfM1TUcGKEaPac7-FwvPrAn1_svLaf6ACLcBGAs/s640/c26a%2B%25281%2529-min.jpg" title="other side of Bayon temple by gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">A must-do picture when inside the Bayon--nose to nose with one of the stone faces.</span></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-i3gUP42xlyA/WcuZTOqicCI/AAAAAAAAMdg/eTwZlU65wO01G1ahlkYxUWlCPFhHyLsxQCLcBGAs/s1600/c27a%2B%25281%2529-min.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="nose to nose Bayon Temple by gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-i3gUP42xlyA/WcuZTOqicCI/AAAAAAAAMdg/eTwZlU65wO01G1ahlkYxUWlCPFhHyLsxQCLcBGAs/s640/c27a%2B%25281%2529-min.jpg" title="nose to nose Bayon Temple by gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xVpcwiWZzHc/V154iAMv_gI/AAAAAAAAHng/YTgrMqfHhQombI59A3spdf9OQd4uB9u2QCLcB/s1600/ba6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Be ready to climb rickety and make-shift ladders to access the higher levels of the temple. Yes, there were a lot of climbing involved.</span></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_JFuiQjMIeU/WcuZTotoR2I/AAAAAAAAMdk/UqJxKzia60s__As3i7yp9JvdI8rS7IJdQCLcBGAs/s1600/c28a%2B%25281%2529-min.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="stairs Bayon temple by gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_JFuiQjMIeU/WcuZTotoR2I/AAAAAAAAMdk/UqJxKzia60s__As3i7yp9JvdI8rS7IJdQCLcBGAs/s640/c28a%2B%25281%2529-min.jpg" title="stairs Bayon temple by gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="480" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nKy_vWMXqNE/V155EnKT3TI/AAAAAAAAHns/0gXEOsFy21st3TcfKkBb5r5zQbDPdE8NQCLcB/s1600/ba11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Another lesser temple within the compound of Bayon.</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"></span></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kQ4zhtpjC_U/WcuZT1_qOFI/AAAAAAAAMdo/Ho8ZcQ5vPTghK2fgzOdX2BPpSG_CckkHQCLcBGAs/s1600/c29a%2B%25281%2529-min.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="lesser temple Bayon by gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kQ4zhtpjC_U/WcuZT1_qOFI/AAAAAAAAMdo/Ho8ZcQ5vPTghK2fgzOdX2BPpSG_CckkHQCLcBGAs/s640/c29a%2B%25281%2529-min.jpg" title="lesser temple Bayon by gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #191919; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: center;">A shot of one of the serene stone faces taken from one of the temple windows.</span></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vygs7Ng4p7s/WcuZU5Egf6I/AAAAAAAAMds/Tn3vXjU1FlkYwM_Mb23nglSIlS_jwAdagCLcBGAs/s1600/c30a%2B%25281%2529-min.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="stone face by the window by gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vygs7Ng4p7s/WcuZU5Egf6I/AAAAAAAAMds/Tn3vXjU1FlkYwM_Mb23nglSIlS_jwAdagCLcBGAs/s640/c30a%2B%25281%2529-min.jpg" title="stone face by the window by gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #191919; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: center;">These two stone faces are in cheek to cheek while the others were minding their own business.</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xuVIzmZC5v4/WcudtIxKgnI/AAAAAAAAMeE/wyY_cfbD8Uwf0wN_wKLNvjb2b4HnPa_NQCLcBGAs/s1600/c31a%2B%25281%2529-min.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="cheeck to cheek Bayon temple by gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xuVIzmZC5v4/WcudtIxKgnI/AAAAAAAAMeE/wyY_cfbD8Uwf0wN_wKLNvjb2b4HnPa_NQCLcBGAs/s640/c31a%2B%25281%2529-min.jpg" title="cheeck to cheek Bayon temple by gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: center;">The Bayon is a good subject for a thousand pictures. The outer walls of the temple alone feature a series of bas-reliefs depicting everyday life like cock-fighting, dog-fighting, people playing their version of chess and other things.</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #191919; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: center;"> </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: blue; color: white; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: large;">Ta Prohm</span></h4>
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<span style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Remember Angelina Jolie's movie Tomb Raider Cradle of Life? This was where one of the most memorable scenes of the movie was shot. The part where she found the jasmine. Yes, it was Ta Prohm. T</span><span style="line-height: 18px; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: black;"><span style="color: white;">his temple is located in the middle of the jungle. The temples have survived with the large trees and roots growing enormously within the compound. It was like a on-going battle of wills between the centuries-old temples and trees. Who shall be left standing?</span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129;"> </span></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GbBC6lFK8iI/WcudtjLAM4I/AAAAAAAAMeI/HYmxK9V88ksImKF5Wnw4D0PyjQzBCYRKgCLcBGAs/s1600/c32a%2B%25281%2529-min.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Tomb Raider movie spot Ta Prohm by gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GbBC6lFK8iI/WcudtjLAM4I/AAAAAAAAMeI/HYmxK9V88ksImKF5Wnw4D0PyjQzBCYRKgCLcBGAs/s640/c32a%2B%25281%2529-min.jpg" title="Tomb Raider movie spot Ta Prohm by gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="text-align: center;">Notice the platforms and the rope barricade? People are not allowed to get near and go into some of the temples for fear of the roof falling over because of the weight of the roots sitting on them.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Hk1rzuYYoVE/Wcudt8IyBHI/AAAAAAAAMeM/YW0hEOdZQwUzqikLRgfFQTeDbHhZ_827wCLcBGAs/s1600/c33a%2B%25281%2529-min.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="ropes and barricades Ta Prohm by gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Hk1rzuYYoVE/Wcudt8IyBHI/AAAAAAAAMeM/YW0hEOdZQwUzqikLRgfFQTeDbHhZ_827wCLcBGAs/s640/c33a%2B%25281%2529-min.jpg" title="ropes and barricades Ta Prohm by gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="text-align: center;">Another one of those chicken-feet like tree roots that is trying to overrun the temple.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nGU_Px50oVA/WcuduQyAv9I/AAAAAAAAMeQ/dzdxRhPlNzYxNAGC8WIR9V81apF6F1YKACLcBGAs/s1600/c34a%2B%25281%2529-min.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="chicken-feet-like trees Ta Prohm by gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nGU_Px50oVA/WcuduQyAv9I/AAAAAAAAMeQ/dzdxRhPlNzYxNAGC8WIR9V81apF6F1YKACLcBGAs/s640/c34a%2B%25281%2529-min.jpg" title="chicken-feet-like trees Ta Prohm by gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="text-align: center;">A bas-relief of a face that is on a wall of one of the temples. This looks like a woman peeking out from the tree root. Peek-a-boo.</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FQmqp7Jv_00/Wcug3gboPUI/AAAAAAAAMec/oALQvtr8p5wER1nX7PtWB4P8M-EUGgjkgCLcBGAs/s1600/c35a%2B%25281%2529-min.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="peek-a-boo Ta Prohm by gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="274" data-original-width="206" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FQmqp7Jv_00/Wcug3gboPUI/AAAAAAAAMec/oALQvtr8p5wER1nX7PtWB4P8M-EUGgjkgCLcBGAs/s640/c35a%2B%25281%2529-min.jpg" title="peek-a-boo Ta Prohm by gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="481" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="text-align: center;">One of the temples in the Ta Prohm compound.</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Y0xx7Y7I-5o/Wcug4TQaGII/AAAAAAAAMek/w_DCE-Z9WXslHXvaNClO7NNCU5DrfWRaQCLcBGAs/s1600/c36a%2B%25281%2529-min.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="temples Ta Prohm by gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Y0xx7Y7I-5o/Wcug4TQaGII/AAAAAAAAMek/w_DCE-Z9WXslHXvaNClO7NNCU5DrfWRaQCLcBGAs/s640/c36a%2B%25281%2529-min.jpg" title="temples Ta Prohm by gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: center;">A tree that has grown over a temple. It looks like a giant foot crushing the temple. At least the tree made sure that it didn't cover the door.</span></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-y9nMCuCLMtA/Wcug4ApP6EI/AAAAAAAAMeg/IxC7qfcq0W0LcrtU2TC-a44YThFRBKW0wCLcBGAs/s1600/c37a%2B%25281%2529-min.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="tree over a temple Ta Prohm by gurlayas,blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-y9nMCuCLMtA/Wcug4ApP6EI/AAAAAAAAMeg/IxC7qfcq0W0LcrtU2TC-a44YThFRBKW0wCLcBGAs/s640/c37a%2B%25281%2529-min.jpg" title="tree over a temple Ta Prohm by gurlayas,blogspot.com" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: blue; color: white; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: large;">Angkor Wat</span></h4>
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<span style="font-weight: normal; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The City of Angkor. The City of the Gods. It used to be a school 2000 years ago. There were a lot of amazing wall paintings of the Indian literature like Mahabharata, Ramayana and of the King Suryavarman II, the King who built Angkor Wat. According to our guide, Angkor Wat used to be known as Nokor--Sanskrit for Nagara meaning Capital City. Angkor is actually a mispronunciation of the word "friend". The temple is made of sandstone from the mountains brought to its location by raft and human labor.</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-weight: normal; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: black;">The entrance to the capital city. You have to pass through this bridge over a river to get to the Angkor Wat.</span></span></span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zSAK2C_Zhvo/Wcug4y55AQI/AAAAAAAAMeo/MXEaowUzo784POU3580q7siC61tdymPNACLcBGAs/s1600/c38a%2B%25281%2529-min.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Angkor Wat by gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="640" height="540" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zSAK2C_Zhvo/Wcug4y55AQI/AAAAAAAAMeo/MXEaowUzo784POU3580q7siC61tdymPNACLcBGAs/s640/c38a%2B%25281%2529-min.jpg" title="Angkor Wat by gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: center;">The main temple of the City of Angkor. It was very vast, a lot of hallways you can get lost to. Walls were full of Sanskrit text and decorated with bas-relief images.</span><br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sI8J1_ELGmQ/WcuhvIjMTwI/AAAAAAAAMe0/Plsoon7-ZTQ34-WLSy0KcQHJPduu3w4RQCLcBGAs/s1600/c39a%2B%25281%2529-min.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="main temple Angkor Wat by gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sI8J1_ELGmQ/WcuhvIjMTwI/AAAAAAAAMe0/Plsoon7-ZTQ34-WLSy0KcQHJPduu3w4RQCLcBGAs/s640/c39a%2B%25281%2529-min.jpg" title="main temple Angkor Wat by gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: center;">One of the rare bas-reliefs on the Angkor City temple walls. This woman was smiling and showing her teeth. This is very uncommon.</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vAYJ7RWvs2E/WcuhvCQpnrI/AAAAAAAAMew/vqjrtTfHfT8ocWpb1dDyOX2rudyq2hmrACLcBGAs/s1600/c40a%2B%25281%2529-min.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="smiling bas-relief Angkor Wat by gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="300" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vAYJ7RWvs2E/WcuhvCQpnrI/AAAAAAAAMew/vqjrtTfHfT8ocWpb1dDyOX2rudyq2hmrACLcBGAs/s640/c40a%2B%25281%2529-min.jpg" title="smiling bas-relief Angkor Wat by gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: center;">Really steep steps. No one is allowed to climb since the steps have eroded. Not anymore safe.</span><br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1G9Fky1W_jU/WcuidnhGERI/AAAAAAAAMfA/1cIjzLxFh0oO1ER1eOzlzDXruO5piC_PwCLcBGAs/s1600/c41a%2B%25281%2529-min.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="steep steps Angkor Wat by gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="250" data-original-width="206" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1G9Fky1W_jU/WcuidnhGERI/AAAAAAAAMfA/1cIjzLxFh0oO1ER1eOzlzDXruO5piC_PwCLcBGAs/s640/c41a%2B%25281%2529-min.jpg" title="steep steps Angkor Wat by gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="527" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: center;">Back view of one of the temple wings.</span><br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qB42EiRIJwc/WcuiduWdIqI/AAAAAAAAMe8/qKN5AwuJT00J_UqRP-m5Kx9bpOCg4IJ3ACLcBGAs/s1600/c42a%2B%25281%2529-min.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="back of a temple Angkor Wat by gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="206" data-original-width="274" height="481" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qB42EiRIJwc/WcuiduWdIqI/AAAAAAAAMe8/qKN5AwuJT00J_UqRP-m5Kx9bpOCg4IJ3ACLcBGAs/s640/c42a%2B%25281%2529-min.jpg" title="back of a temple Angkor Wat by gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: center;">The stairs of most temples have succumbed to destruction. They have replaced the used to be stone steps with wooden stairs to allow visitors to explore the interiors.</span><br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tf9E49fMkoM/Wcuj63cYI4I/AAAAAAAAMfM/31K5ZtxB-CYxbdheDhNSitwX3jwgzZaMgCLcBGAs/s1600/c43a%2B%25281%2529-min.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="wooden stairs Angkor Wat by gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="206" data-original-width="274" height="481" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tf9E49fMkoM/Wcuj63cYI4I/AAAAAAAAMfM/31K5ZtxB-CYxbdheDhNSitwX3jwgzZaMgCLcBGAs/s640/c43a%2B%25281%2529-min.jpg" title="wooden stairs Angkor Wat by gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: center;">This is a temple where visitors can go in and offer prayers. It was close when we were there. You should wear the proper dress code if you plan to go up there, that is if you are not afraid of heights. The stairs are so steep and it seemed like it would take you straight to heaven. No shorts pants and sleeveless shirts please. </span><br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dgaQ6TuWsnA/Wcuj7MzbhJI/AAAAAAAAMfQ/eSHh6zJU5Q484VMZ6PGvBnd4Ai7efqIcgCLcBGAs/s1600/c44a%2B%25281%2529-min.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="prayer temple Angkor Wat by gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dgaQ6TuWsnA/Wcuj7MzbhJI/AAAAAAAAMfQ/eSHh6zJU5Q484VMZ6PGvBnd4Ai7efqIcgCLcBGAs/s640/c44a%2B%25281%2529-min.jpg" title="prayer temple Angkor Wat by gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The last agenda for the day is to watch the sunset. What would be a better way to end our day? We were asked by our guide if we wanted to watch it from the lagoon or from the top of one of the temples. Of course, we chose the latter. We had to take a 5-minute walk (about 300 meters) to reach the Temple on the Mount. Then, we climbed four storeys of really steep and narrow steps to reach the top. It felt more like wall-climbing. We had to catch our breath after the climb but the view was breathtaking. It was all worth it. The next challenge was to climb down without tripping. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Yes, this was where we watched the sunset. Start climbing.</span><br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cnCI-nQlNGI/Wculcf7dIzI/AAAAAAAAMfk/6I9duUrpcJUGIkNxIrNsGI-GHvmXOotjACLcBGAs/s1600/c45a%2B%25281%2529-min.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="climbing stairs Sunet on the mount by gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cnCI-nQlNGI/Wculcf7dIzI/AAAAAAAAMfk/6I9duUrpcJUGIkNxIrNsGI-GHvmXOotjACLcBGAs/s640/c45a%2B%25281%2529-min.jpg" title="climbing stairs Sunet on the mount by gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="text-align: center;">At the top of the mount. Almost all of the tourists ended up here to watch the sunset. It was crowded. You need to find your own spot to sit down.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Sit anywhere. Make yourselves comfortable. Just make sure not to fall off.</span></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-URgUtxqufQo/Wculb5k3_wI/AAAAAAAAMfc/qkLX5uRsXxMH7tP_KGYvTQ0u0bfZgH1fQCLcBGAs/s1600/c47a%2B%25281%2529-min.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="sit anywhere top of the mount by gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-URgUtxqufQo/Wculb5k3_wI/AAAAAAAAMfc/qkLX5uRsXxMH7tP_KGYvTQ0u0bfZgH1fQCLcBGAs/s640/c47a%2B%25281%2529-min.jpg" title="sit anywhere top of the mount by gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: center;">Here comes the sun. He was bidding goodbye to a long but very amazing day. One of the most amazing days of my life.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="text-align: center;">Look at that vibrant color. Ah, divine.</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #191919; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: center;">Oh, the sun is out. Time to go down. Reverse wall-climbing. </span><br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-n_CdmbER71g/WcumvlOYVKI/AAAAAAAAMf4/vUkIcWdTiQkiCdcwVe5RuSvPy3KZpYDdwCLcBGAs/s1600/c51a%2B%25281%2529-min.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="on the ground the mount by gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-n_CdmbER71g/WcumvlOYVKI/AAAAAAAAMf4/vUkIcWdTiQkiCdcwVe5RuSvPy3KZpYDdwCLcBGAs/s640/c51a%2B%25281%2529-min.jpg" title="on the ground the mount by gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Jse-HF8mxZo/Wcumwb2ya9I/AAAAAAAAMf8/9qOWLGAbNUUjm_sfM-XdFXaMPJx0A_1MwCLcBGAs/s1600/c52a%2B%25281%2529-min.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="elephant ride by gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Jse-HF8mxZo/Wcumwb2ya9I/AAAAAAAAMf8/9qOWLGAbNUUjm_sfM-XdFXaMPJx0A_1MwCLcBGAs/s640/c52a%2B%25281%2529-min.jpg" title="elephant ride by gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: black; color: white;">Apart from all the temples I have mentioned, there are still a lot of other temples in the Angkor City. If you opt for a 3-day pass, you will surely be able to explore them. Maybe, someday I will actually be able to do that. It would be so exciting to be able to visit those other remote temples and take really stunning and enchanting pictures.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: black; color: white;">After the tour, we had a buffet dinner at Angkor Mordial Restaurant and we were treated to a cultural show. The Apsara dance,</span><span style="background-color: black; color: white;"> <span style="line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">the dance for the gods. The dancers were called celestial dancers. The steps consisted mainly of hand movements, not very complicated. It can't be compared to our Singkil and Tinikling (folk dances in the Philippines). They have their own version of the Manlalatik (dance using coconut shells) and the fishing dance. We enjoyed the dinner buffet rather than the dancing.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">So long. Plan your trip to Cambodia now!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Information source is Wikipedia. </span></i><i style="font-size: small;">All pictures were taken from my Olympus Tough 8000. In memoriam. Oly my friend, you have captured and immortalized thousands of the best moments of my life. Thank you. You had been a really great companion for all my adventures.</i></span></div>
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Gurlayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12786636457565228373noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-418410919271527104.post-81929889560269613362016-06-06T17:46:00.000+08:002019-02-05T04:52:33.600+08:00My Funny Friend and Me:)<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Do you have moments when something prompts you to remember funny experiences while traveling? I was finishing a post about two days ago when I had that kind of moment. I had been to a few places and there were a lot of those hilarious situations which involved me and my friends. I decided to immortalize them.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I am still laughing at those encounters. It is always fun to reminisce and talk about the past times. Hope you guys find them amusing too.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Here we go. Drum roll please...</span></div>
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The Chinese and Their Tea</span></h3>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="The Chinese and their tea by gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" height="353" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-i7ni0SL7w0Y/V1UE2f7QE3I/AAAAAAAAHaY/3_40eWYHpUYLvd92bgDfaJVgo8JRkePTQCLcB/s640/3.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="The Chinese and their tea by gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="640" /></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We were in Shenzhen, China for a half-day tour only. It was dinnertime and we were walking around the night market near an MRT station. I can't exactly remember the name of the station. We were a bit tired of walking and when our friend, who can speak Mandarin, had finally found a restaurant where we can eat, we were relieved. Phew, we can all sit down and take a deep breath.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">You know the Chinese are famous for their teas, right? Being in Hong Kong for the past day, we have been getting used to being served complimentary teas when dining. So, we sat down at our assigned table and got ourselves comfortable. The waitress then appeared and put down the tea, plates, chopsticks and all the works. Our Chinese-speaking friend then proceeded to order for us. One of my friends, tried the tea to quench her thirst and to keep the hunger at bay while waiting for our food. After about three cups, the waitress then came back to our table and washed the plates and all other eating implements...using the tea my friend just enjoyed. We all looked at each other. Our eyes saying something and betraying our friend. Our tea-loving friend shrugged her shoulders and said, it tasted really good. It didn't taste like cleaning tea. We then all released the laughter we've been trying to hold.</span></div>
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Being Kids in Hong Kong Ocean Park</span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Since, I have talked about our experience in Shenzhen, then let me continue with the rest of the events after that. So, we were back in Hong Kong. We were in Ocean Park, it was late in the afternoon. The park was about to close and we've had our fun. We were on our way to line up for the cable car ride. One friend was a fast walker so she went ahead. I was right behind her and way behind me were two other friends. Yes, there were four of us on that trip. Then suddenly, we heard the people queuing for the cable ride getting excited. I wondered what the raucous was about. One girl was even trying to tell me something. She was pointing to a bottled water that rolled down the inclined path. I then looked back and saw my friend on one knee holding on to my other friend for dear life. And my other friend was laughing her head off. She was oblivious of the situation until she felt a hand grab her left arm. My friend was on bended-knee because she slipped and she almost rolled down the pavement if she had not held on to my other friend. The scene before me was so ridiculously hilarious that I could not help but laugh too. My embarrassed friend was also laughing at her self at the awkwardness of the situation she was in. Our other friend who was way ahead of us, came back to ask why we were delayed. When she found us, she joined in the mirth too. We then helped our friend up and checked for injuries. Yes, we had a good laugh first, before we came to our senses and rescued our friend. She scraped her knee and lost the red color on her two toenails. Other than a red face due to embarrassment, she was alright. She was more worried of her bald toenails than her knee. While we were trying to calm and comfort her, a guy was poking my arm to get my attention. When I turned to him, he handed me a bottled water. I waved him off and thanked him for his concern for my friend. The guy did not leave, he kept handing me the water and I told him once again politely, that my friend is alright, "thank you for the water". He then told me that the water was my friend's. It rolled down when my friend fell and he picked it up. Oh! (Imagine me red-faced.) We then continued our way and made sure our friend was within reach just in case another bout of clumsiness would befall her. We cracked up more and were bent, holding our bellies, when I recounted the story of the bottled water. No, we didn't stop laughing our hearts out at the final doze of amusement we had in the amusement park. It was a very memorable trip because of that incident. It will be forever imprinted in our minds.</span></div>
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My Nephew in Singapore</span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">It was my two nephews' second summer in Singapore to visit their Tatay (Filipino word for father) who worked there. The older nephew was tall for a 10-year old. There were instances wherein he was mistaken for a local. Not once but three times. We find it interesting, because the first time we were there, there was nothing like that. Well, there's always a first time for everything.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The first incident was when we were on the Choa Chu Kang MRT Station. He was asked by an old lady, of course in Chinese, probably about directions as we were in the train station. My nephew was surprised and just shook his head and waved his hand to refuse the lady. Even if he understood her, he would not be able to provide her directions since we are just visiting and my brother-in-law has moved to a new flat. We were not in the same neighborhood the previous time we were there. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The second time was inside the train. Being an almost teen, he would usually find his own spot on the train, a few steps away from us. An old couple then approached him and asked him something. He replied saying "sorry, no Chinese". The couple then asked him... "alone?" The couple were concerned. They thought he was too young to be traveling on his own.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The third time was by the Merlion Statue in Marina Bay. A young couple called him and asked him to do something. Again, my nephew delivered his line that he can't understand them. He then realized that the couple was actually asking him to take their picture. He remembered the guy was holding a camera.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Every time we remember those times, my nephew would just smile. And we often tease him that he can actually pass for a Singaporean or Chinese.</span></div>
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Where's the Restroom?</span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We were in St. Louis, Missouri for a process training for a new job in Manila. It was a weekend. With two of my very close friends, (We call ourselves the Mean Girls. No we are not really mean.) we decided to go downtown to Galleria Mall. The hotel service van took us to the train station which is right beside Lambert Airport. While we were on the train, about halfway to our destination, my friend said that she needed to pee. We decided to alight on the next station to use the restroom. Unfortunately, they do not have restrooms for each station or on any stations at all. We had stopped at two different stations when this reality hit us. We had to get back on the train and try to think of any place where we can find a restroom. I suggested, we stop at Delmar Loop and walk to find one. Probably, one of the establishments there would let us use a restroom. It was kind of an emergency. We could not go on to the mall as we needed to walk about 10-15 minutes from the station before we get to the mall. My friend could not make it that far. My friend was trying very hard to keep her mind off her bladder. Told us to not laugh or else she would wet herself. We decided that it might be too risky to stop at Delmar and walk. My suffering friend said, she's not sure if she can walk about a block or two when her bladder is about to betray her. We tried to think of something else. In the end, as a last resort, we agreed to go all the way back to the airport. She said she can dash to the comfort room just in time to relieve herself. So, we did. We were quiet the whole time. Praying our friend would make it through her ordeal. Once the train stopped at the Lambert station, she ran as fast as her feet could take her. And it was a success!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The Gateway Arch</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">As mentioned in the earlier stories, we were in St. Louis and it is near Chicago, about a 6-hour Amtrak train ride. On one of the weekends, we decided to go there. Fortunately, our American bosses volunteered to pay for our fare and hotel stay. It was our first time to be on an Amtrak train since it was also the first time for most of us to be in the US. The trip was slow and noisy. You can hear the chugging of the train while it went through the tracks. And because it was quite a long ride, we decided to explore the other parts of the train to pass the time. We checked their canteen and bought dinner then tried to sleep the rest of the way. We arrived at Union Station in Chicago. It was winter and being in the Windy City made it more freezing. We grouped ourselves and flagged down taxis to get to Palmer House Hilton. It was a very posh and upscale hotel. Thanks to our sponsors who were very generous. There were around 20 of us who trooped to Chicago. We were so tired with our journey so we slept when we got to our rooms, which was around past midnight already. The next morning, all dressed up and ready to face the chilling winds, we started to explore. As it turned out, there was no planned itinerary. We split into two groups. One group went out a different way and we decided to start at the Millennium Park which was just about two blocks from the hotel. We took pictures of The Bean and the other attractions in the park. As we were taking pictures and as we were a big group, all wacky and noisy, we caught the attention of one lady. She approached us and started asking questions like where we were from, what were we doing in the US. The woman was amused with the us and we invited her to join our group picture. We asked her also some questions which directed the conversation to the person she was with. She said she was with her husband and started looking for him. He had walked ahead of her and didn't realize that his wife had not followed him. She called for her husband but he didn't hear her. So, we decided to help her out. The group, all ten people, including our manager from Europe, shouted "Honey", as that was what she called her husband. Of course, with our loud, "Honey", the husband turned with his eyebrows raised. He saw us all with wide grins in the company of his wife. He was so surprised and slowly approached the group. His wife then explained our part in the whole "honey fiasco". His wife was so amused with the whole thing. When they left, we bade them, "goodbye honey", in unison.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">1, 2, 3! Say...Honey!</span></div>
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Rolling in the Deep</span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">When you are with kids, you are often forced to act like one in the interest of not disappointing them or for the sake of being cool. We were in a saltwater pool two days before as a last salute to the hot summer. My three nephews and one niece love swimming a lot, as most kids do. They played and swam in the pool and I was to be the designated lifeguard to make sure they were safe. The kids knew how to swim and wre very careful so I need not worry so much. After awhile, one of my nephews started doing a back flip in the pool. This was by lying in the water, bracing the two feet on the wall and use it to push yourself and turnover. They call it a back flip so let's call it that. No need to start an argument. So, the two older boys (ages 12 and 11) started doing the back flips and repeated it. The girl (10) wanted to do one too. Her older brother ( who is 11) helped her but still she coudn't do it on her own. They then told me that they were doing back flips and even demonstrated for my behalf. The girl wanted me to help her and asked if I could do one for her too. So, in the interest of being a role-model, if it ever applies, I tried one. And I did it. Only, it felt like I was disoriented for a second and did not know which way was up or down. I had to remember that I was in the water and since I am a floater, the water would buoy me up to the surface. I swallowed some water and had to cough them out when I came up for air. I then asked if they have seen it. Well, guess what? They didn't, so I had to do it again. And this time it was a lot better than the first. I felt proud that I have learned a new skill (wish I could include it in my resume) and tried it a few times more. My niece, to her disappointment, still could not do a proper one without our help. A few minutes later, she showed me and it was okay but not a very clean execution. I gave her a thumbs-up and told her to practice more. Congratulations to me and my niece for learning to do back flips while in the pool. 50 bonus points for me:)</span></div>
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The Labrador was Afraid of the Dogs</span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This is an experience of a very close friend in Manila. I worked in Manila for more than 6 years. I am originally from Cebu City. Anyway, back to the story. It was around 6 am. My friend went out to buy bread, specifically pan de sal (salt bread or bread of salt). They are like dinner rolls and the favorite breakfast and snacks of most Filipinos. The bakery selling these very tasty and hot pan de sal is about a block from the apartment. While she was on her way to the bakery, she heard barking and saw about 5 dogs snarling at each other. They started barking very loudly and chased each other. I am not sure what prompted the whole thing. Most of the time dogs fight over a bitch or I guess the dogs were just being dogs, they love to bark and run. It was chaos. They were blocking my friend's path. My friend's dilemma then was to go on with her errand which involves getting passed the angry dogs or go back her way and try the long route to the bakery. While she was contemplating this, the dogs were coming towards her. In her fright, she turned quickly, slipped on the sidewalk and scraped her knees. In pain and with blood oozing from her wounded knee, she went back to the apartment and forgot about the pan de sal. When she got to their room, her roommate (who was also a close friend of mine) was startled to see her back so soon. She even lauded my friend for being so fast. Then she asked where the bread was? My friend answered in a shaking voice, with misty eyes that were about to cry, that there was no pan de sal. She was scared off by the fighting dogs. She even slipped and got injured. My other friend laugh at the hilarity of the situation. She told her that she is so clumsy she can't get as far as a block without hurting herself. My scared friend just pouted in reply.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px; text-align: center;"> In memory of Sparky, who has gone to heaven yesterday. So long Sparky, please give our love to Daisy.</span></span><br />
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School Kids and Their Backpacks</span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">It has always been more comfortable to carry laptops in a backpack, right? I don't know why when you get one, they always come with a messenger bag instead of the backpack. So, it was the start of spring, in St. Louis and we have just finished our training for the day. The hotel shuttle that was supposed to pick us up was delayed. We decided to walk back to the hotel. The hotel is just about a 5-minute walk from the office. It was a sunny day and it was nice to enjoy the weather after that really bone-chilling winter. We started walking. To our surprise and horror, there were no sidewalks in Earth City, as most people have their own cars. You can't see anyone walking. It was just the highway and right beside the road is a ditch where the power lines, water and communication wires were buried. We had to make sure we keep to the very edge of the streets so we will not be hit by passing cars or make a wrong step and fall into the ditch. The ditch was water less but there is danger in touching the wires. The ditch has colored flags stuck in it. This is to indicate what kind of wires were under it. Each wire is designated a flag color, like red for power lines. We were nearing a crossing and it was a red light, one guy in a car asked if we were just out from school and where we were going. He thought we were kids because of our backpacks and maybe because most of us were the average height of most Filipinos. We were flattered to be called school kids and took it to mean that we looked young. </span></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AOs9c6bHazU/WcvKg9J55II/AAAAAAAAMgY/kXhgXGQBQxkv8RMrLcmogn8Lfgp_YT1owCLcBGAs/s1600/m10a%2B%25281%2529-min.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="the school kids by gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AOs9c6bHazU/WcvKg9J55II/AAAAAAAAMgY/kXhgXGQBQxkv8RMrLcmogn8Lfgp_YT1owCLcBGAs/s640/m10a%2B%25281%2529-min.jpg" title="the school kids by gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We were also mistaken as backpacking students in New York because we only carried backpacks when we visited the city or because we just look naturally young (coughs). We stayed in a dormitory and we met European students who were on a school break and were backpacking in America. One girl from Austria said she'd been everywhere in the US. One time she met people in one of her travels and was asked if she wanted to join them going to another state. She readily agreed and hopped on their car. Going back to our backpacks, we did not have padlocks for the lockers so we couldn't leave our bags in the dorm. You can't be too careful in New York. So, we just carried them around while we were exploring the city. We were there for just the weekend so we did not have much stuff in them. We looked like teenage mutant ninja turtles lost in New York. We didn't mind though, we were too mesmerized by sights and sounds that we had no time to worry about our baggage.</span></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Xaa55cJsOis/WcvKg3vYWBI/AAAAAAAAMgU/3zVhiNWlTnY_5TlAyXrAzPM6k2D6Yb3MgCLcBGAs/s1600/m11a%2B%25281%2529-min.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="New York, New York by gurlayas.blogspot.com" border="0" data-original-height="238" data-original-width="640" height="238" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Xaa55cJsOis/WcvKg3vYWBI/AAAAAAAAMgU/3zVhiNWlTnY_5TlAyXrAzPM6k2D6Yb3MgCLcBGAs/s640/m11a%2B%25281%2529-min.jpg" title="New York, New York by gurlayas.blogspot.com" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px; text-align: center;"> First picture was taken in Broadway. Second, is while we were resting our tired feet after some shopping.</span></span></div>
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ID Please.</span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I love watching movies. While we were in the US, watching movies was one of the things that helped us manage our homesickness. We have found out that when you go to the cinema before 5:30 PM you get to pay for the ticket at a discounted price of $5.25. After 5:30 PM it would be $2 more. Hence, we often tried to go directly to the mall right after office if we want to watch a movie. Then, we stroll around the mall afterwards. The mall, which was a factory outlet mall, has a policy of not letting minors in the main mall during weekends after 8pm. The cinema has a separate access. Teenagers can stay there but they can't go into the mall if they are not accompanied by an adult. We just got out of the movies and we decided to check the shops while waiting for the shuttle back to the hotel. We usually call the shuttle to pick us up and it would take around 30 minutes or more for the van to arrive. The van had to pick up other hotel guests also. We were going into the main mall when we were stopped by the guard and asked for ID's. I always carry my passport whenever I am out of the country for security and for identification purposes. My friend did not bring her passport so I took out mine. When the guard saw my personal data on the passport, he was like "Oh, never mind, go in." He thought we were teenagers. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px; text-align: center;"> The cinemas are closed guys. You need to go home.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We were in Hanoi, Vietnam. We were on a Halong Bay cruise. We were on the floating pearl farm which was one of the attractions on the cruise. We were about to board back the junk (means boat). While waiting for our crew to be ready to get us in, we took pictures and started chatting with some of our companions on the boat. We meet a family from Malaysia. A mom and two kids. The kids were both tall, way taller than most of us. The boy was thirteen years old boy and the girl was eleven. My friend told them that they were tall for their age. I seconded that I was thirteen too. Then, the girl asked who was with us. We told her that it was just the four of us. Friends going on a trip. The girl, in her innocence, then asked her mom why we were allowed by our parents to travel alone, meaning without adults. We smiled and told her that we were just kidding. We were not in our teens. We are "the adults". Her mom just smiled also in amusement as she already knew that we were just humoring her.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px; text-align: center;"> Welcome to Halong Bay!</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">These are just some of the funny and amusing stories. I think there are more and I started remembering them while writing this post. There were also a lot of awkward situations we encountered while we were traveling. There were scary ones too, but I think they are good for another post or else this one will turn into a long boring novel. The above stories are just the most memorable ones and I can't help but grin and even laugh when I recall those times. I hope that you also found entertainment in them. I am sure you do have bloopers and I would want to hear them too.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">You can narrate them in the comments section so I can share in the merriment.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">To my immediate circle of friends, you need not worry. I did not name anyone here so you are safe. I do not intend to embarrass you but I would just like to share the mirth and the belly aches we got during those priceless times. Thank you for the many years of great friendships and looking forward to our golden years together, walking our dogs and doing the running man. Cheers!</span></div>
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Gurlayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12786636457565228373noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-418410919271527104.post-30269979189295985272016-06-04T01:58:00.000+08:002019-02-05T05:08:29.039+08:00Fun Taiwan!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Taiwan is probably not among the most popular tourists destinations in Asia. But recently, it has become slowly known and a lot of travelers have started exploring this tiny island-country, formerly known as Formosa, to discover its secrets.</span></div>
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I, with four of my friends (we call ourselves the Stokers) wanted also to see what Taiwan could offer in terms of tourism. Unfortunately, only the three of us finally flew to Taipei as the other two had commitments that came up.</div>
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Here is what you would need if you decide to unearth the mysteries of Taiwan.</div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">To get into Taiwan, you must apply for an online visa. Yes, no need to go to their embassy personally or get interviewed. Please click this </span><a href="https://niaspeedy.immigration.gov.tw/nia_southeast/languageAction" style="font-weight: normal;">link</a> <span style="font-weight: normal;">to be directed to the application site. For all those who have valid US Visa's you will not be charged a single cent. For more information, please check this <a href="http://www.boca.gov.tw/ct.asp?xItem=6464&ctNode=868&mp=2">site</a>, as I can only speak of our experience of how we got our visa. Pardon me.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">For us, the Stokers, we all have valid US Visa's so we were able to get our Taiwan visa approved right away at no cost. Just needed to fill in the necessary information being asked in the application. Once approved, need to save and print the visa to be shown to the immigration officers in exiting the Philippines and entry to Taiwan.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">As soon as the visa is approved and sent to your email, you can now book a ticket. We are budget travelers so we always get the cheapest flight available. Actually, when we plan a trip, we usually start with checking the promo fares. Since, a local airline has a promo for Taipei, we decided to go there.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We assigned one member of the group to check and book our accommodations. Budget travelers like us only need three things for a good stay: </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> (a) The hotel or inn should be accessible to all forms of transport such as airport buses and trains, near restaurants, within the area of our planned itinerary and most of all safe.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> (b) The restroom should be clean, with hot and cold water.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> (c) Room should be well-ventilated, with air-condition.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Our accommodation was a dorm-type room good for the five of us. We got a welcome xiao long bao stuffed with greens on our first breakfast. Tea all-you- can plus a wide choice of condiments to flavor the tea. Buffet breakfast was included in our accommodations.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We also assigned another person to do our itinerary. This means making sure we will be able to visit the popular sites, eat at really good restaurants and try something different. This would be the most difficult and detailed task. Take note, we will be in a foreign country, which all of us has not set foot on. We need to ensure that we can find our way around. Thus, the need for specific instructions to get to and from the hotel to our planned escapade. Plus, estimated costs and fees for all the planned activities.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">One thing to note also, is </span><span style="font-weight: normal;">to make sure that the itinerary is flexible. Taking into account the weather and all other possible factors that would hinder in visiting a site.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">With all the four items in place, we are now ready to get to Taiwan. Of course, we need to make sure that we have Taiwan Dollars. We usually change peso to USD through our depository banks. They would just need you to present the ticket and passport. USD is accepted everywhere so it would not be a problem. You can also have USD changed to TWD once you are in the departure area or once you to get to Taiwan airport. One TWD is approximately equal to one PHP.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Officially the world's tallest building since 2004 until it was bumped off by Dubai's Burj Khalifa in 2009. It still is the tallest and largest green building in the world though, as per LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) and was awarded a platinum certification in 2011. The building looks like a tower of pagodas. The building was designed to withstand earthquakes and typhoons. The most important part of its design is the mass damper. The damper is to help prevent damage to the structure due to strong winds. The Damper Baby has become its mascot.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">As its name suggests, there are 101 floors. Tourists can climb as far as the 88th floor to get a 360 degree view of the city for a fee.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">If you have not had enough of heights, take a ride on the Maokong Gondola. The gondola is right atop the Taipei zoo. The zoo was closed when we were there and since it was not really part of our itinerary, it was no deal at all. They have a crystal clear bottom gondola and the regular one. We rode the clear-bottomed one going to the Maokong Mountain where there is a temple, a lot of tea plantation and fresh air. There was not much too see but the gondola ride experience was what we were after. And a chance to tease one of our friends who has acrophobia. </span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">As there were just three of us and the queue was long, they opted to fit different groups for the ride. We shared a ride with two locals who were courting. We were teasing them when we took their pictures but the girl was a little shy and made sure that the guy kept his hands to himself. She also made it clear that they were not yet a couple.</span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Refreshing view. Most of these greens are tea.</td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: #674ea7; color: #4c1130; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Eat Your Heart Out at Themed Restaurants</span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">If you love watching the travel channel, I'm sure you've heard of themed restaurants. Taiwan has quite a few of them. The most popular would be the <span style="color: red;"><b>Modern Toilet</b></span>. This would give you an experience of sitting on a toilet bowl and eating on a glass-topped bath tub. Soups would be served on miniature toilet bowls, so if you order a curry, it would no doubt look like the real thing. Yeah, exactly that one in the restroom. My excuses to those whose tummy are a bit sensitive. Their breads are shaped like poo, too. </span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">It was a fun and new experience, a novel take on dining, too. We were not so hungry so we did not order any soup or heavy meals.</span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bread and ice cream. Photo grabbed from the internet.</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Next thing to try would be the world famous <span style="color: red;"><b>Hello Kitty Cafe</b></span>. This was honestly the reason why we came to Taiwan- to eat in the Hello Kitty Cafe. I like Hello Kitty, though I am more of a Mickey Mouse person. The cafe was so girly with the walls and tables in pink. It has an ambiance of youth and freshness. The restroom was so cute and clean that you would want to stay there and may even want to take a nap. The cafe is known for desserts like cakes and smoothies which were what we ordered. Jellies are shaped like the kitty's head. Paper place mats are filled with kitty designs. You can't afford to be gloomy and cranky when inside the cafe.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hello Kitty!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ah, this is too cute to eat.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here's what we ordered. I ordered the choco-banana smoothie.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Getting cozy in the restroom, eh?</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Then, there was also the </span><span style="color: red;"><b>BARBIE Cafe</b></span>, yes BARBIE! We didn't know about this until one of our ex-office mates told us that there is a Barbie Cafe nearby. She saw my friend's post on Instagram on Hello Kitty cafe. <span style="font-weight: normal;">It was on the second floor about two blocks from the kitty cafe. Oh, </span><span style="font-weight: normal;">I love Barbie animated movies, not the Barbie doll. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Anyway, when we got there, we were held off by one of their hostesses. Not the warm welcome we were expecting. Of course she was wearing a Barbie outfit: pink tutu-like skirt and a black top. We were told that we need to order a minimum amount to be able to get inside the cafe, which was incredulous. Once we were in, it seemed like we were inside a really cute, girly and pretty doll house. Makes you want to be prim and proper just like a lady, raise your pinky and do a catwalk. I was almost tempted to sing the theme song in "The Princess and the Pauper" and do a pirouette.The seats and booths are in pink with the walls hung with Barbie photo frames. We made sure that we took a lot of pictures to compensate for little bitty pricey meal.</span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The waitresses </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Menu please.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Compulsory pose with the big Barbie wall mural.<br />
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<span style="background-color: #674ea7; color: #4c1130; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Waterfalls in the City.</span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Yes, there is a waterfall that is just within the city limits. <span style="color: red;"><b>Datun Falls</b></span> is about a 20-minute bus ride from the Central Terminal. It is a short walk from the Yangming Park which is within the Yangminshan National Park. A big Flower Clock will be seen on the way to Datun Falls.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Flower Clock modeled by Sarah.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Zen mode at Datun Falls.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Short hike to Datun Falls</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Datun Falls in all its glory.</td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: #674ea7; color: #4c1130; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Detox at a Hot Spring.</span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Taiwan has hot springs too. <span style="color: red;"><b>Beitou Hot Springs</b></span>. A lot of hot spring resorts are in the area. You can choose which suits your taste. There is a public bath house where you pay around TWD40 to soak in. Cameras are not allowed inside so we have no pictures. You have to bathe first with ice-cold water before immersing in the pools. There were four pools with varying temperatures. The hottest was about 42 degrees Celsius. We stayed at the 38 degree pool because it was not so crowded and the heat is tolerable enough. We didn't want to be boiled pork. There were mostly old people in the pools and the rest were tourists like us. </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The oldies were very nice. They would make space for you when you get in the pool.</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">One no-no when bathing in the hot pools is to never dip your head. Stay in the pools for increments of 10 minutes only to prevent heatstroke. There was this Indian family with 2 kids about 9-12 years old. The kids were very rowdy, as can be expected. The boy decided to dip his head like he was swimming in a cool pool. He was submerged for about a minute or two. The mother was very oblivious. It was an old man who caught the boy and told him to rinse his face immediately with cold water so he won't irritate his eyes. The sulfur content of the water is not to be swallowed and should not get in contact with the eyes. We felt so sorry for the boy and blamed the mom for it, silently though.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Millennium Hot Spring. Public bath.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thermal Valley, the source of the hot springs. Can you feel the hot steam and smell the sulfur?</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Public Library</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Along the way to the hot springs, you will pass by the Public Library, the Beitou Hot Spring Museum and a running water from the spring where you can just impulsively dive in and wash yourself. No need to pay for a resort. There is also the Plum Garden where the famous calligrapher and political leader Yu Yu-ren spent his summers. We did not explore the other sites except for the Plum Garden which is right beside Millennium Hot Spring.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An amphitheater right outside Beitou Hot Spring Museum</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Need to wash off the dust, do it here. Test the waters if it is to your liking.<br />
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<span style="background-color: #674ea7; color: #4c1130; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Go Take a Hike. Move Those Muscles.</span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">There are a lot of hiking trails in Taipei that is just an MRT away. Yangmingshan Natural Park has a lot of biking and hiking trails. In fact, the way going to Datun Falls was actually a short hike. Good enough for cardio. Another one is the <b><span style="color: red;">Elephant Mountain Trail</span></b> also known as Nangang District Hiking Trail. The hike is about 15-20 minutes to the top where you have a stunning view of Taipei 101. The trail includes a lot of stairs. It starts at a temple and it goes a long way to a monastery on top of the mountain.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Resting at a nearby park bench on the way to Elephant Mountain.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The starting steps of the Elephant Mountain trail. Farther up, the steps are wider.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A view of the Taipei 101 from the Elephant Mountain trail.</td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: #674ea7; color: #4c1130; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Visit Temples. It is good for the soul.</span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">One of the famous temples in Taipei is the <span style="color: red;"><b>Longshan Temple</b></span> which houses both Taoist and Buddhist icons. There was a prayer service when we visited the temple. We have to wait for it to finish in order to explore. There was no dress code implemented when entering the temple grounds. We bought bracelets made of bamboo beads for souvenirs at their gift shop which were supposed to be for good health. </span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Manka Longshan Temple facade<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Faithfuls wearing black togas praying at the temples.</td></tr>
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Right across the temple is a pavement painted with the characters of the zodiac. </span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Are you a Libra?</td></tr>
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<span style="color: blue; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Fun Facts about Taiwan</span></h3>
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<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Their water dispenser use paper cups. Literally, PAPER cups.</span></li>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Paper drinking cups</td></tr>
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<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">They use electronic warning flag waiver for on-going road works. No need for additional manpower and cost-saving.</span></li>
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<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Need to know if the restrooms are full? Just look at this led indicator board to know which cubicles are being used. Cool!</span></li>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Red means in use. Green means vacant.</td></tr>
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<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Don't get lost nor disoriented. It may seem like a stadium but it is an airport. Don't let the ceiling intimidate you</span>.</li>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Welcome to Taipei.</td></tr>
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<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Beware of the Taipei 101's elevator. It is the Guinness Book of Records' fastest. It takes about 40 seconds from the ground to the 89th floor. Hold your breath.</span></li>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here's the proof. Guiness World Records fastest elevator.</td></tr>
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<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> Being beautiful is definitely not a crime in Taipei. Large billboards inviting everyone to get a nose lift, a tummy tuck and other face and body-enhancing procedures are seen everywhere, especially in the MRT stations. They even include a before and after picture for proof.</span></li>
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<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">They have night markets too and their street foods look very tasty and clean. We didn't get to try them though. We were stuffed just watching the hustle and bustle of <b>Shilin night market</b> which was where the Modern Toilet is located. We did not buy anything also as their RTW's are expensive compared to Divisoria and Baclaran. </span></li>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Taiwan is a small country in terms of area compared to the Philippines but it has a lot of its natural beauty preserved. When on a bus or an MRT, you can see green everywhere and you can still smell fresh air even in the metropolis. There is no fear of getting lost as the signs are also written in the English alphabet. You can ask for directions but make sure that s/he speaks English. Most of them are very polite and would say "no English" but would offer to direct you to someone who may be able to help. The people are probably the nicest of the Chinese-speaking countries I have visited so far. That is my opinion, no offense intended. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">One funny experience we had in Taipei was when we were having dinner in McDonald's right across our hostel. It was almost midnight and there was an announcement in the PA system. We did not mind the announcement as we did not understand it. It was in Mandarin. We saw some of the customers leaving. We did not know what was going on. The shift manager approached some tables and talked to the customers and then they stood up and leave. Then, suddenly out of nowhere, the manager was right in the back of my friend speaking loudly in Chinese, complete with hand gestures. My friend got a fright, panicked and we ran out of the store, laughing at our reactions. We were like scolded and scared teenagers thrown out into the sidewalk. At least we were amused at ourselves, all the while holding on to our drinks and belongings. It turned out they were closing instead of being open for 24 hours. As to the reason, we didn't know. Good thing, we have finished our meal.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I would like to go back to Taiwan and this time go into the countryside. About 2-3 hours train ride from the city and explore its wonders. Like Keelung City, it holds a lot of treasures waiting to be discovered. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Hopefully this time, the Stokers will be complete. I bet it will be a memorable and hilarious trip. When all five us are in one room, it sure will be chaos. Officially and terribly missing you guys.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Special thanks to Sarah and Prizy for some of the pictures. I grabbed them from Facebook and Instragram since I am still rendered incapable of accessing my external hard drive.</span></div>
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Gurlayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12786636457565228373noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-418410919271527104.post-7359360854558838502016-04-23T15:08:00.004+08:002019-02-05T05:38:17.047+08:00The Coron Ultimate Adventure<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">It's summer! And the best way to fight the excruciating heat is to head to the beaches. One of the most popular summer destinations here in the Philippines is the Palawan group of islands. One of the these islands is Coron.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Coron is a first class municipality of the province of Palawan. It is part of Busuanga island. Busuanga is an hour's flight from Metro Manila. From the Busuanga airport (official name is Francisco B. Reyes), it takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour by van to get to the Coron town proper.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Here is an account of what we did in Coron, July of last year. </span></div>
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<b><span style="color: #990000; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">What to do in Coron?</span></b></h3>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">There are a lot of things to do in Coron, Palawan. Since it's an island, most of what you would be doing are water activities. To get the most of the island experience, you have to sign up for the Coron Ultimate tour package. The tour will include the most popular and must-see sites. </span></div>
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<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: red;">Blue/Green Lagoon</span>.</span></b> This is usually the first stop. We were the first and the only boat in the lagoon. It was so clear and the water is green. The temperature of the water rapidly changes from cool to warm and vice versa due to thermocline. The lagoon is enclosed by small rock-islands on almost all sides. There's only one opening for going in and out of the lagoon. It's name came from the constantly changing color of the lagoon. It was green when we were there. We were with two Canadians in the tour boat and they were really good swimmers so they went exploring the surroundings. Unfortunately, one of them stepped on a group of sea urchins on one of the rocks. </span></li>
</ul>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-riPFuYb36r8/Vxre7Pac-jI/AAAAAAAAHHg/mDMU-XftyngMx1GfmIC1QyORSbhkmfdXgCLcB/s1600/IMG_0861.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Photo of Gurlayas 2015" border="0" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-riPFuYb36r8/Vxre7Pac-jI/AAAAAAAAHHg/mDMU-XftyngMx1GfmIC1QyORSbhkmfdXgCLcB/s400/IMG_0861.JPG" title="Blue/Green Lagoon, Coron, Palawan" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Swimming in the Blue/Green Lagoon.</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0Zvo2p8Bv9w/VxrrchWf8tI/AAAAAAAAHI8/BD3RG763KcsowZ7fYmf2WlRrktfpUj5pwCKgB/s1600/IMG_2526.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="photo by Gurlayas 2015" border="0" height="397" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0Zvo2p8Bv9w/VxrrchWf8tI/AAAAAAAAHI8/BD3RG763KcsowZ7fYmf2WlRrktfpUj5pwCKgB/s400/IMG_2526.PNG" title="blue lagoon raincoat" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Boat entering the blue lagoon. It was raining due to on incoming storm, our boat crew wearing his company-issued raincoat.</td></tr>
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<ul>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">CYC Beach.</span></b> CYC Beach is being maintained by the Senior Citizens of Coron, hence the name Coron Youth Club. The name of the beach has always been a standing joke repeatedly told by the tour guides. It's a really small island with a sand bar which makes it good for swimming. A few meters to the left of CYC is a good snorkeling area. A lot of Nemo (clown fish) and Dory's (tang fish) cousins and other fishes.</span></li>
</ul>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-i-Pbv5sIZeo/VxrlqxuOLZI/AAAAAAAAHIQ/rQveNsnXcGITFwDUTOmkATglQYHiZp6JgCLcB/s1600/IMG_0889a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="photo by Gurlayas 2015" border="0" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-i-Pbv5sIZeo/VxrlqxuOLZI/AAAAAAAAHIQ/rQveNsnXcGITFwDUTOmkATglQYHiZp6JgCLcB/s400/IMG_0889a.jpg" title="CYC Beach Coron" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Japanese who was on our tour. Boat is about to dock on CYC beach. </td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FY76He-ox5k/VxrraWwhQVI/AAAAAAAAHI8/YGrietU_qrALmVu8qIi_RdFQTqJWsRQvQCKgB/s1600/IMG_2523.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="photo by Gurlayas 2015" border="0" height="393" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FY76He-ox5k/VxrraWwhQVI/AAAAAAAAHI8/YGrietU_qrALmVu8qIi_RdFQTqJWsRQvQCKgB/s400/IMG_2523.PNG" title="CYC beach snorkeling" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Improvised fins used by tour guides in Coron. Made out of thin plywood and rubber straps to keep the feet in place. Photo taken while snorkeling a few meters off CYC Beach.<br />
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<ul>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Twin Lagoon.</span> As its name suggest, there are two lagoons. The other one can be reached by swimming underwater for about a minute or climbing up a makeshift ladder. This was packed when were there. Good thing we were one of the first boats to arrive so we were able to climb up the ladder and not have to line up to wait for our turn. We opted to climb the ladder than swim underwater because we are floaters. If you are a floater, you will have a hard time getting underwater, though it's only for a minute, but it's dangerous if you hit the large stone cliff that separates the two lagoon. The second lagoon is totally enclosed by big rock-islands which look like towering cliffs inside the second lagoon. </span></li>
</ul>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VuhdEEzz7nI/VxrrbpMVjbI/AAAAAAAAHI0/Tim-p1CH8KEf7tZqlzfgrEzDAIPazjG2gCKgB/s1600/IMG_2525.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="photo by Gurlayas 2015" border="0" height="313" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VuhdEEzz7nI/VxrrbpMVjbI/AAAAAAAAHI0/Tim-p1CH8KEf7tZqlzfgrEzDAIPazjG2gCKgB/s320/IMG_2525.PNG" title="Twin lagoon coron" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">First lagoon in the background where the boats dock. I was at the top of makeshift ladder going to the other lagoon.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pxBx0CbjL2c/VxsB4zTPRBI/AAAAAAAAHJs/6RQpK0uQMdMkB3zgSglVWYmdXpu4821nQCLcB/s1600/IMG_2552.JPEG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pxBx0CbjL2c/VxsB4zTPRBI/AAAAAAAAHJs/6RQpK0uQMdMkB3zgSglVWYmdXpu4821nQCLcB/s400/IMG_2552.JPEG" title="twin lagoon. second lagoon photo by Gurlayas 2015" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The second lagoon. My two friends are already in the water waiting for me.</td></tr>
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<ul>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Atwayan Beach.</span> This is where we had lunch which was included in the tour package. The beach is lined with cottages which are reached by the tides during high tide. Since it was just a day after the storm has passed, the waves were a bit big and it was high tide. We have to hold on to the benches to not get washed out to sea. Our tour guide and boat crew prepared our grillled fish, ensaladang talong (eggplant salad), liempo (grilled pork belly) and banana, complete with plating and creative presentation. While waiting for our food to be ready, we went swimming and took pictures. We ate our lunch with the water brushing our legs.</span></li>
</ul>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TIrP8A9MRhQ/Vxr5XJAMZUI/AAAAAAAAHJU/n2XaIVmdbd0urspKsK6_ktl6gTLtudOiwCKgB/s1600/IMG_2535.JPEG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="photo by Gurlayas 2015" border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TIrP8A9MRhQ/Vxr5XJAMZUI/AAAAAAAAHJU/n2XaIVmdbd0urspKsK6_ktl6gTLtudOiwCKgB/s400/IMG_2535.JPEG" title="atwayan beach" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Swimming and taking pictures while waiting for our lunch.</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EhB6oxCqMp0/Vxr6BUQQQzI/AAAAAAAAHJY/b90KYPH2JlwtJEuC7uAyZw7H9vXhvQdoQCKgB/s1600/IMG_2536.JPEG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EhB6oxCqMp0/Vxr6BUQQQzI/AAAAAAAAHJY/b90KYPH2JlwtJEuC7uAyZw7H9vXhvQdoQCKgB/s400/IMG_2536.JPEG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The cottages behind me is where lunch is served.<br />
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<ul>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: red;"><span style="font-size: large;">Quinn Reef.</span> </span>Right in front of Atwayan Beach, just a few meters away is the Quinn Reef. It is also a very good spot for snorkeling. The waves were too strong for us to go exploring on our own. I can swim but I am not a strong swimmer, so in the interest of safety, </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">we opted to hold on to one of life jackets and then our tour guide will just tow us back if we get too far out. It would have been a lot fun if the weather was calm. There were a lot of fishes and very nice corals.</span> </li>
</ul>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-A0BA0_T2ByQ/Vxr51aqNyII/AAAAAAAAHJM/MsvaLyU0CrcQUqkNZ2ao7Shc66ZWJuRDACLcB/s1600/IMG_2533.JPEG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="photo by Gurlayas 2015" border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-A0BA0_T2ByQ/Vxr51aqNyII/AAAAAAAAHJM/MsvaLyU0CrcQUqkNZ2ao7Shc66ZWJuRDACLcB/s640/IMG_2533.JPEG" title="quinn reef" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Corals and fishes in Quinn Reef.<br />
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<ul>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Skeleton Wreck.</span> This part is deeper but the water was calm compared to that in Quinn Reef. There is no danger of being hit or stepping on any coral or sea urchin since the bottom is way way down. The visibility was not very good but you can still see the fishing boat. It felt eerie looking down and my imagination started running. The best part was swimming side by side with the fishes. There are other shipwrecks that you can explore but some would require scuba equipment. I think this is the only shipwreck accessible by snorkeling.</span></li>
</ul>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VwLb4OCsm_Y/VxrrZbAhYiI/AAAAAAAAHI8/4LdrE3gyGdU1p85snN0ojSun-NILTQOpACKgB/s1600/IMG_2522.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="photoy by Gurlayas 2015" border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VwLb4OCsm_Y/VxrrZbAhYiI/AAAAAAAAHI8/4LdrE3gyGdU1p85snN0ojSun-NILTQOpACKgB/s400/IMG_2522.PNG" title="chinese fishing boat coron" width="397" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Remains of Chinese fishing boat that capsized.<br />
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<ul>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Kayangan Lake.</span> This is dubbed as the cleanest lake in Asia. And this is a freshwater lake, not salt water. You have to wear mosquito repellent lotion before going into the island as you will have to take a 5-10 minute walk among bushes and trees which housed a lot of mosquitos. There is a vantage point looking out into the sea and the backdrop is one of the rock islands and is Coron's official picture in it's tourism ads. Once you get to the lake, there is a boardwalk and you can jump off from there and splash into the lake or not. But we did, but not too eagerly. No need to use snorkels here as we did not see any fishes. It was also a bit scary, looking down into this one big rock formation down below, it seemed like it could tear you apart. But it's only near the boardwalk. Further out, it is clear and wide open. You can swim until your arms are numb.</span></li>
</ul>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-K5JfAOTPGhU/VxsCYE9wMwI/AAAAAAAAHJ0/M--jLxILwicd5JOhq_rCbT1qHQqWYfKmQCLcB/s1600/IMG_2548.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" height="397" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-K5JfAOTPGhU/VxsCYE9wMwI/AAAAAAAAHJ0/M--jLxILwicd5JOhq_rCbT1qHQqWYfKmQCLcB/s400/IMG_2548.PNG" title="kayangan lake vantage point photo by Gurlayas 2015" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The view at the top of the trail to Kayangan lake. This is same view of the famous ad for Coron.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aPi6NMby8No/VxsCYLW_w1I/AAAAAAAAHJ4/5yRdjeQ-jW41LCDGFAiTYkIJZtaJDNfcwCLcB/s1600/IMG_2547.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" height="395" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aPi6NMby8No/VxsCYLW_w1I/AAAAAAAAHJ4/5yRdjeQ-jW41LCDGFAiTYkIJZtaJDNfcwCLcB/s400/IMG_2547.PNG" title="kayangan lake photo by Gurlayas 2015" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Clear waters of the Kayangan Lake.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fdtNNEb-km8/VxsCXYTCy1I/AAAAAAAAHJw/p5QatvBCbhg4vp2bOV2ImpbJ7sA3jQXjACLcB/s1600/IMG_2546.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="395" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fdtNNEb-km8/VxsCXYTCy1I/AAAAAAAAHJw/p5QatvBCbhg4vp2bOV2ImpbJ7sA3jQXjACLcB/s400/IMG_2546.PNG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Standing on the boardwalk, behind me is the entrance to the lake. The boardwalk goes around a quarter of the lake.</td></tr>
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<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: red; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Siete Pecados.</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"> Its name is derived from a legend of the seven evil sisters. It was said that these sisters did not listen to their mother and they drowned. Later, seven islets rose and thus were named. This is the best snorkeling site in the whole of Coron. This was the last site in the tour since it is just near the main Coron island. It was already past 5pm when we got there and we only get to see the fishes and very colorful corals for about 10 minutes since it was already getting dark. As I said earlier, this was a day after the storm so Mr. Sun was still too shy. During calm days, 6pm is still bright enough to see and enjoy the wonders at Siete Pecados. This area is a bit shallow, so be careful on stepping on any corals or any other sea creatures. Some may be poisonous like the stone fish. Unfortunately, I was not able to take pictures since my battery has died. We just enjoyed the corals in different colors (pink, green and blue) and the variety of fishes which I could not name.</span></li>
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<h3>
<span style="color: #990000; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>Other sites in Coron town</b></span></h3>
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<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: lime;"> <span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Mt. Tapyas.</span></span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"> The tallest spot in Coron. You need to climb 742 steps to get to the top which is 210 meters above sea level. It overlooked the whole of Coron and the 360-view is very stunning. There is a very large cross at the top and the cross can be seen when you are roaming Coron town.</span> </li>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-S5RFgtEMiPE/VxristJP4NI/AAAAAAAAHH8/LmNkvAo0tEIKkOPNRF8uLF3qSPheY8TvgCLcB/s1600/IMG_0909a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="photo by Gurlayas 2015" border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-S5RFgtEMiPE/VxristJP4NI/AAAAAAAAHH8/LmNkvAo0tEIKkOPNRF8uLF3qSPheY8TvgCLcB/s400/IMG_0909a.jpg" title="Mt. Tapyas" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mt. Tapyas<br />
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<ul>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: lime; font-size: large;">Coron town proper.</span> Explore the town on a tricycle, motorbike or on foot. Visit their municipal hall, church, popular restaurants, souvenir shops, etc. Coron is famous for cashew nuts.</span></li>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YFfJ8X9XqSs/VxsOR-dQgjI/AAAAAAAAHLE/br2-stJ9OwQvNE7-w4nvEYaLvvtPHPKswCLcB/s1600/IMG_2557.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" height="378" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YFfJ8X9XqSs/VxsOR-dQgjI/AAAAAAAAHLE/br2-stJ9OwQvNE7-w4nvEYaLvvtPHPKswCLcB/s400/IMG_2557.PNG" title="coron traffic photo by Gurlayas 2015" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Traffic in the main highway of Coron due to a school parade.<br />
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<ul>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: lime;"><span style="font-size: large;">Maquinit Spring.</span> </span>This is a hot seawater spring. Yes, it's saltwater. It's a good place to relax and ease your tired muscles especially after climbing Mt. Tapyas. Be sure to stay in the hot spring for 30 minutes only as long exposure is not advisable. You can sit back in the cottages or explore the area and soak back in again. There are three pools you can choose from with varying temperature. There is no specified swimming attire so you can wear your two-piece (short and shirt :)), rash guard or swimsuit. The hot spring is right beside the sea so can also enjoy the cool seawater if you want to. It is advised to spend a total of 2 hours submerged in the hot spring. </span></li>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6goaNjPTZ3k/VxrkvXPCokI/AAAAAAAAHII/JIPPYCObD00m2Lm_VjJVOnw4V0_L-Ev1gCLcB/s1600/IMG_0866a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6goaNjPTZ3k/VxrkvXPCokI/AAAAAAAAHII/JIPPYCObD00m2Lm_VjJVOnw4V0_L-Ev1gCLcB/s400/IMG_0866a.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Maquinit spring in the early part of the day. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Vq-JFBnJZiw/Vxrrapj5S3I/AAAAAAAAHIw/W2KaeZGLyr0gz3_JpfHj0QHljvind4glACKgB/s1600/IMG_2524.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="photo by Gurlayas 2015" border="0" height="395" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Vq-JFBnJZiw/Vxrrapj5S3I/AAAAAAAAHIw/W2KaeZGLyr0gz3_JpfHj0QHljvind4glACKgB/s400/IMG_2524.PNG" title="maquinit spring lamp" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Maquinit spring in the late afternoon. Hanging lamps are all over the place.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VJuInR5AIqc/VxsJtmN1R3I/AAAAAAAAHKs/e4g-zbOu0BswBfx-GNmx2iSqKvqiSdazQCLcB/s1600/IMG_2544.JPEG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VJuInR5AIqc/VxsJtmN1R3I/AAAAAAAAHKs/e4g-zbOu0BswBfx-GNmx2iSqKvqiSdazQCLcB/s400/IMG_2544.JPEG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A walkway that goes into the sea, surrounded by mangroves. Some boats dock here to unload their passengers for the Maquinit Hot Spring.</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">To be able to maximize your time in Coron, make sure to book your tours ahead. There are only two major tour companies in Coron with their own boats so book with any of the two. One of these two is J&Y Tours which was the one booked for by our contact from one of the other smaller tour companies. We were on a 4D3N tour but our second day was cut short due to a storm. We were able to visit two sites (Blue Lagoon, CYC) and snorkelled near CYC but was instructed by the Coast Guard to return to the main island because of the storm. </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Frustratingly, there's nothing else you can do in Coron. We decided to head back to the hot spring to soak our grumpy spirits. On our third day, the storm has passed and the wind has died down but the sky was still a little overcast. It was safe to venture into the sea but not too far out.We went on to continue our tour and because of yesterday's debacle we got an upgrade, hence the ultimate tour. Our third day was supposed to be a tour to two other islands which are further out but we were advised not to as the conditions are still not that ideal.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Coron is a great place for snorkeling and I would love to go back to do just that. It's also great for diving. I still need to learn how and that's next on my bucket list.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">You can also sample the local restaurants. We had dinner on our first night at Balinsasayaw which was famous for the same soup (Nido soup). A soup made from the nest of the bird of the same name. We had lunch on the next day on Lolo Nonoy's which is a carenderia (eatery). We sampled very common dishes such as fried fish, sauteed vegetables, mongo, etc. The food was good and very affordable. Perfect for those on a shoestring budget. </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">There are also a lot of barbecue stalls around. That was our dinner on our second night. </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">We had our dinner after the ultimate tour at the Kawayanan Grill which is famous for their crocodile dishes which we did not sample. It was too exotic for our taste. We did try their seafood flatter, lapu-lapu escabeche, seafood kare-kare, and sizzling squid in a japanese style table setting. We ate dinner with our new-found Bisaya friends (from Cebu and Bacolod) we met on the tour. </span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dinner Japanese style in Kawayanan Grill.</td></tr>
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<b style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms', sans-serif;"><span style="color: #990000; font-size: large;">More Photos of Coron</span></b></h3>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I have more photos of Coron but unfortunately, my external hard drive is giving me an access error. It's also the reason why this post is delayed. So, here are the other photos I have saved on my phone.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Rc966ymH2Qg/VxsEhdPXNjI/AAAAAAAAHKU/KudsL46XKkgVfK_5vw1mDf9dEDxnQuLSwCKgB/s1600/IMG_2545.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Rc966ymH2Qg/VxsEhdPXNjI/AAAAAAAAHKU/KudsL46XKkgVfK_5vw1mDf9dEDxnQuLSwCKgB/s400/IMG_2545.PNG" width="392" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is what will greet you the moment you touchdown in Busuanga Airport. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RBSRxVefVrM/VxsGY4Vc2kI/AAAAAAAAHKg/5_F6O5A107ooV-srcfVNpVRhjpD4evgyQCLcB/s1600/IMG_2551.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="393" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RBSRxVefVrM/VxsGY4Vc2kI/AAAAAAAAHKg/5_F6O5A107ooV-srcfVNpVRhjpD4evgyQCLcB/s400/IMG_2551.PNG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is what countryside will look like on the way to Coron town proper.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nEJej7_8ZdY/VxsEygxt5-I/AAAAAAAAHKY/1nhYFa5F2zQKzbjhlIE9C-HoMYiAEEYLQCKgB/s1600/IMG_2550.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" height="396" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nEJej7_8ZdY/VxsEygxt5-I/AAAAAAAAHKY/1nhYFa5F2zQKzbjhlIE9C-HoMYiAEEYLQCKgB/s400/IMG_2550.PNG" title="sleeping giant coron photo by Gurlayas 2015" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The sleeping giant. View from the top of Mt. Tapyas.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UvSqADEajsM/VxsEyxSRRII/AAAAAAAAHKY/z9s-BywQQB0D9V-J-OWas771Ar-fuFzBwCKgB/s1600/IMG_2549.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" height="392" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UvSqADEajsM/VxsEyxSRRII/AAAAAAAAHKY/z9s-BywQQB0D9V-J-OWas771Ar-fuFzBwCKgB/s400/IMG_2549.PNG" title="mt. tapyas view photo by Gurlayas 2015" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from Mt. Tapyas.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lD8vw0MQvoE/VxsOsv8zHPI/AAAAAAAAHLM/MQU3MMirDDEgF9kHxQMELsY_G6PwNG3qgCLcB/s1600/IMG_2558.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" height="393" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lD8vw0MQvoE/VxsOsv8zHPI/AAAAAAAAHLM/MQU3MMirDDEgF9kHxQMELsY_G6PwNG3qgCLcB/s400/IMG_2558.PNG" title="terrace view coron photo by Gurlayas 2015" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from the terrace of our accommodations.<br />
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Gurlayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12786636457565228373noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-418410919271527104.post-1530579292349368762016-04-20T19:07:00.002+08:002019-02-05T05:27:27.784+08:00Famous Sites and Landmarks - New York City<br />
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I have thought myself so lucky for having been to New York City not once but twice. We were on training in the US and it so happened that the states we were in were in the East Coast. The first time I was in the US, we were in St. Louis, Missouri which is about a three-hour flight to New York City. We booked a promo flight through American Airlines from Lambert Airport to Laguardia. The flight was on Friday night and the return was on Sunday night also. It was winter and a week before that there was a snowstorm. I, with two of my friends, packed a backpack to spend a weekend in the city that never sleeps to get a bite of the Big Apple.</div>
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The second time, we were in Boston and we took a five-hour ride on a Greyhound bus to New York. We left Saturday afternoon and returned to Boston on a Sunday night.</div>
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Here are the famous places and sites we were able to see up close when we were there. For me, this has been the best thing that happened to me. New York is my favorite city in the world and finally I get to walk in the streets of Manhattan, rode in a yellow cab and tried not to be lost in the subways.</div>
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<span style="color: blue;">Central Park</span></h4>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LryiOUlWrnM/VxdxVfp2dEI/AAAAAAAAHEo/cM3RgLdbb5gFCYFWel2819k576iyTuu7wCLcB/s1600/IMG_2489.JPEG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="photo by Gurlayas" border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LryiOUlWrnM/VxdxVfp2dEI/AAAAAAAAHEo/cM3RgLdbb5gFCYFWel2819k576iyTuu7wCLcB/s320/IMG_2489.JPEG" title="Central park outskirts in winter" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Outskirts of Central Park in winter.</td></tr>
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Did I mention that it was winter in New York? Yes, we were at Central Park but only in the outskirts, not where the fountain, skating rink, or the zoo is. No, I did not get to meet Alex the Lion. Too bad ha? Right! The only thing we saw were snow-covered walkways. The second time I was in New York was summer. Yes! But still, I never got the chance to go into Central Park. We did pass by the West Entrance though which is right across the Trump Tower.</div>
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I promise myself, next time I will be in New York, Central Park will be the first place I will go to.</div>
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<span style="color: blue;">Statue of Liberty </span></h4>
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I know of two ways to get to see the famous lady in the world - The Statue of Liberty. The first is to take a boat river cruise around East River which would cost around $30. The cruise would take you under the three famous bridges (BMW), Brooklyn, Manhattan and the Williamsburg Bridge. Along the way, the guide would point out famous buildings. The last stop of the tour is the Statue of Liberty. The tour doesn't drop you off at Liberty Island but it positions the boat very near it to get a very good view of the statue.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yIsEh27XO60/VxdQ8k_eNGI/AAAAAAAAHEU/hwIpUSiiypQoLa3RPX9GyXtp6eT0fo7ogCLcB/s1600/IMG_2474.JPEG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="photo by Gurlayas 2010" border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yIsEh27XO60/VxdQ8k_eNGI/AAAAAAAAHEU/hwIpUSiiypQoLa3RPX9GyXtp6eT0fo7ogCLcB/s320/IMG_2474.JPEG" title="Statue of Liberty" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Statue of Liberty </td></tr>
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The second time we went to New York, we were fortunate to have a
cousin of my very close friend living in Brooklyn. She took us to see
the lady via the Staten Island ferry which plies to and from Manhattan free of charge. The ferry passes by the statue on her way to Staten, so
passengers, tourists and locals alike can take pictures of this renowned
gift from the French.</div>
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The Empire State Building</span></h4>
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Known to be the tallest building in the world right before</div>
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Petronas Twin Towers was built and Taipei 101. The view deck is on the 88th floor. Visitors who wished to go up to get a 360 view of Manhattan have to pay $20. We went up to the 88th floor and was met by blasting cold winter winds but the view was breathtaking. Even my friend who has a fear of heights forgot about her fear because of the excitement.</div>
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<span style="color: blue;">The Museum of Natural History</span></h4>
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Remember Dumdum? The Native American statue who needs to be fed bubble
gum in the movie The Nights at the Museum. I have seen the famous
dinosaur skeleton also who greets every museum visitor at the entrance
of the Museum. The museum is very vast and you have to spend a whole day
or more just to be able to see all the exhibits. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-54INC7vJ0xc/VxdxmK5cG9I/AAAAAAAAHEs/iDGakI9zh6MlmJWyhsgqWFyeMeBh3IqRQCLcB/s1600/IMG_2490.JPEG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="photo of Gurlayas 2010" border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-54INC7vJ0xc/VxdxmK5cG9I/AAAAAAAAHEs/iDGakI9zh6MlmJWyhsgqWFyeMeBh3IqRQCLcB/s320/IMG_2490.JPEG" title="Dumdum Museum of Natural Hisotry NY" width="236" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Native American Statue, was called Dumdum in the movie Nights at the Museum</td></tr>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-suIJhIdxBCY/VxdxnOga4hI/AAAAAAAAHEw/ro4WbHql2YQKjh_0qZdsqS2wdTD0IYD9ACLcB/s1600/IMG_2491.JPEG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="photo of Gurlayas 2010" border="0" height="288" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-suIJhIdxBCY/VxdxnOga4hI/AAAAAAAAHEw/ro4WbHql2YQKjh_0qZdsqS2wdTD0IYD9ACLcB/s320/IMG_2491.JPEG" title="dinosaur at Museum of Natural History New York" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dinosaur skeleton at the entrance of the Museum.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brooklyn Bridge</td></tr>
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<span style="color: blue;">Brooklyn Bridge</span></h4>
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This bridge is usually featured in most movies or tv shows set in New York. It is a hybrid cable-stayed/suspension bridge and is one of the oldest of either type in the US. It was completed in 1883 and connects Manhattan to Brooklyn spanning the East River.</div>
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<span style="color: blue;">Manhattan Bridge</span></h4>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Manhattan Bridge</td></tr>
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Is a suspension bridge connecting Lower Manhattan at Canal Street and Downtown Brooklyn at Flatbrush Avenue Extension. This also spans across the East River and is one of the four toll-free bridges in New York. It is said to be the forerunner of modern suspension bridges. It is also the first to use a Warren truss in its design. </div>
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<span style="color: blue;">Williamsburg Bridge</span></h4>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Williamsburg Bridge</td></tr>
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Is also a suspension bridge connecting the Lower East Side of Manhattan to the Williamsburg neighborhood of Brooklyn. This is one of the toll-free crossings from Manhattan to Long Island. It once carried New York State Route 27A<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/New_York_State_Route_27A" title="New York State Route 27A"></a> and was planned to carry Interstate 78<a class="mw-redirect" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Interstate_78_%28New_York%29" title="Interstate 78 (New York)"></a>, though the planned I-78 designation was aborted.</div>
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<span style="color: blue;">Rockefeller Center</span></h4>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iVc07sMu46k/VxeFO4sBfPI/AAAAAAAAHGQ/quP-RZFogs0AhMXJb2eKN4MZjnzFD2VFQCLcB/s1600/IMG_2504.JPEG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="photo by Gurlayas 2013" border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iVc07sMu46k/VxeFO4sBfPI/AAAAAAAAHGQ/quP-RZFogs0AhMXJb2eKN4MZjnzFD2VFQCLcB/s320/IMG_2504.JPEG" title="Rockefeller center" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rockefeller Center</td></tr>
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One of the tallest and famous buildings in New York City. It is also famous for its annual Christmas Tree. There is also a statue of Prometheus right outside the building facade and a big skating rink. The Rockefeller complex is composed of 19 commercial buildings between 48th and 51st streets and 5th and 6th Avenue. The current Center is a combination of two building complexes: the older and original 14 Art Deco<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Art_Deco" title="Art Deco"></a> office buildings from the 1930s, and a set of four International-style towers built along the west side of Avenue of the Americas<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sixth_Avenue_%28Manhattan%29" title="Sixth Avenue (Manhattan)"></a> (Radio City Music Hall) during the 1960s and 1970s (plus the Lehman Brothers<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lehman_Brothers" title="Lehman Brothers"></a> Building). The Time-Life Building, McGraw-Hill, and News Corporation/Fox News Channel<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fox_News_Channel" title="Fox News Channel"></a> headquarters are part of the Rockefeller Center extension. </div>
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This Roman Catholic Church is located right across Rockefeller Center specifically facing the statue of Atlas and Saks on Fifth on its left. The cathedral is a decorated Neo-Gothic style. This was not the original cathedral. This was built by Archbishop Joseph John Hughes to replace the old St. Patrick's Cathedral in downtown Manhattan. The church can accommodate up to 3,000 people. It is built of brick clad in marble, quarried in Massachusetts and New York. The cathedral was being renovated when we were there in 2013. The last time I was there, I bought a gold medal as souvenir which was sold for $3.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iOv8u4kParQ/VxeMhQ-oEII/AAAAAAAAHHM/x4poBZz51qwglEjr_KNtcz51XApHMglVQCLcB/s1600/IMG_2511.JPEG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="photo of Gurlayas 2010" border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iOv8u4kParQ/VxeMhQ-oEII/AAAAAAAAHHM/x4poBZz51qwglEjr_KNtcz51XApHMglVQCLcB/s320/IMG_2511.JPEG" title="St. Patrick's Cathedral NY" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">St. Patrick's Cathedral</td></tr>
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<span style="color: blue;">Washington Square Park</span></h4>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CWjpfJdeSXs/Vxd1osPAE2I/AAAAAAAAHFY/Aqfy4CoEiuEIi6SjtOKB60vxsm--4bx5wCLcB/s1600/IMG_2494.JPEG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Photo by Gurlayas 2013" border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CWjpfJdeSXs/Vxd1osPAE2I/AAAAAAAAHFY/Aqfy4CoEiuEIi6SjtOKB60vxsm--4bx5wCLcB/s320/IMG_2494.JPEG" title="Washington Square Arch" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Washington Square Arch</td></tr>
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No, it's not Paris, it's the arch and the entrance to Washington Square Park which is modeled after the Arc the Triomphe. The arch and the fountain are the two famous landmarks and sites of the park along with the statues of George Washington, the Italian patriot and soldier Giuseppe Garibaldi and the talented American engineer who helped start the steel industry, Alexander Lyman Holley. This is the set for the movie August Rush. A lot of musicians and artists hangout in this park and is owned by the New York University.</div>
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This is where Melman, Alex, Gloria and Marty got into a fight with an old lady while they were trying to board a train to Connecticut. It is a railroad terminal which has a total of 44 platforms which is more than any in the world. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MJ7ez1-Qquo/Vxd17flWm-I/AAAAAAAAHFc/gCLA1gGy41o6jMQQBbYo15VzGpNidoGMACLcB/s1600/IMG_2493.JPEG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="photo by Gurlayas 2013" border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MJ7ez1-Qquo/Vxd17flWm-I/AAAAAAAAHFc/gCLA1gGy41o6jMQQBbYo15VzGpNidoGMACLcB/s320/IMG_2493.JPEG" title="Grand Central Station Main Concourse" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grand Central Station Main Concourse</td></tr>
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<span style="color: blue;">Times Square</span></h4>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2bDjjDMrglM/Vxd3GwyXjzI/AAAAAAAAHF0/V58F7snmy6IMTfkQDDeWgInXbrIABQaawCLcB/s1600/IMG_2492.JPEG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Photo by Gurlayas 2013" border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2bDjjDMrglM/Vxd3GwyXjzI/AAAAAAAAHF0/V58F7snmy6IMTfkQDDeWgInXbrIABQaawCLcB/s320/IMG_2492.JPEG" title="Times Square NY" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Times Square NY.</td></tr>
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Neon lights, jumbotrons, billboards, people dressed in costumes, artists, peddlers, vendors and tourists converge in this famous avenue in Manhattan. This is probably the most visited part of New York. This is a major commercial intersection situated at the junction of Broadway and 7th Avenue. Formerly called Longacre Square<b></b>, Times Square was renamed in 1904 after The New York Times moved its headquarters to the newly erected Times Building<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/One_Times_Square" title="One Times Square"></a>, the site of the annual ball drop on New Year's Eve. Times Square is also the hub of the Broadway Theater District.<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Times_Square_Ball" title="Times Square Ball"></a> </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Vw65W6vE6Zg/VxeGECUujyI/AAAAAAAAHGY/rHm5IEL94KM7lu6IWooQ_Otwyic0ME0AQCLcB/s1600/IMG_2506.JPEG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="photo of Gurlayas 2010" border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Vw65W6vE6Zg/VxeGECUujyI/AAAAAAAAHGY/rHm5IEL94KM7lu6IWooQ_Otwyic0ME0AQCLcB/s1600/IMG_2506.JPEG" title="Times square ny at day time" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Times Square NY at daytime.</td></tr>
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<span style="color: blue;">Madam Tussaud's Wax Museum</span></h4>
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I got to hug Brad Pitt, Bon Jovi and Michael Jordan, well almost! </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aA49NKoDPlg/VxeHBz8rucI/AAAAAAAAHGk/K7r1rYuh6VcOMKNbKHyx3NrBise_QQffQCLcB/s1600/IMG_2507.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="photo by Gurlayas 2010" border="0" height="316" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aA49NKoDPlg/VxeHBz8rucI/AAAAAAAAHGk/K7r1rYuh6VcOMKNbKHyx3NrBise_QQffQCLcB/s320/IMG_2507.PNG" title="The Obamas at the wax museum ny" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">With the President and First Lady.</td></tr>
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The wax museum houses a lot of life-like replicas of famous and influential celebrities and personalities from around the world. I got to stand beside the US President Barack Obama and first lady Michelle. I met my ex-boss Bill Gates too. Napoleon, Golda Mier, Gandhi and Pope John Paul II were there too. And I touched JLo's bum. Hehehe.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cRl529YJF-A/VxeMIITETiI/AAAAAAAAHHI/brqeiyJeT1ABadO4XN-X7QMh1kSHdhITwCLcB/s1600/IMG_2510.JPEG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="photo by Gurlayas 2010" border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cRl529YJF-A/VxeMIITETiI/AAAAAAAAHHI/brqeiyJeT1ABadO4XN-X7QMh1kSHdhITwCLcB/s320/IMG_2510.JPEG" title="Bon Jovi wax" width="176" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hugging Bon Jovi</td></tr>
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<span style="color: blue;">911 Groud Zero Memorial</span></h4>
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This is probably the most eerie and weirdest experience I had. Standing at the memorial wall at ground zero of the 911 tragedy was very surreal. I had goosebumps all over and my stomach felt so cold and empty. It was like I felt what all the people who died and suffered during that unfaithful day.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-P7Te5xr2YcY/VxeIW3xb3rI/AAAAAAAAHGw/cy7EiQrwLBg5Cg2GA_V4iELFwNLSuwg1gCLcB/s1600/IMG_2502.JPEG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="photo by Gurlayas 2013" border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-P7Te5xr2YcY/VxeIW3xb3rI/AAAAAAAAHGw/cy7EiQrwLBg5Cg2GA_V4iELFwNLSuwg1gCLcB/s320/IMG_2502.JPEG" title="911 memorial mural" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A portion of the 911 Memorial Mural.</td></tr>
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Today, the First World Trade Tower is done and another tower is going to rise up from the ashes of the destruction. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RjmQG7bxDSQ/VxeIUuGvt1I/AAAAAAAAHGs/gV95t4x82h0jDAE7-NMjMpZOUZ2mvT5lACLcB/s1600/IMG_2503.JPEG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="photo by Gurlayas 2013" border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RjmQG7bxDSQ/VxeIUuGvt1I/AAAAAAAAHGs/gV95t4x82h0jDAE7-NMjMpZOUZ2mvT5lACLcB/s1600/IMG_2503.JPEG" title="1st world trade tower" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">First World Trade Tower completed in 2013.</td></tr>
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There are a lot of things to do in New York City, from visiting museums to sampling the street food, walking through Times Square, watching a Broadway show or play, sitting and relaxing in Central Park and standing at the top of Empire State building with a mesmerizing view of the whole of Manhattan and the other boroughs, just make sure that you have enough time. One advice, be sure to plan your trip before going to the Big Apple to maximize your time and money. Try the subways as it is more fun and a lot cheaper than just getting on a yellow medallion taxi.</div>
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New York, New York, this is what dreams are made of. </div>
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Gurlayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12786636457565228373noreply@blogger.com0