tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-54098997141434266952024-03-16T09:10:07.033+08:00Chasing BernadetteA personal blog on fitness, food, travel and life inspirationsBernadette Villanuevahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10555874160460926665noreply@blogger.comBlogger454125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5409899714143426695.post-64347875893242014872018-06-12T21:30:00.000+08:002020-04-18T02:33:06.199+08:00Pains of Transition and How You and I Can Deal with Them<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">It could be a new job, a new person in your life, a loss of a loved one, an entirely foreign place. Whatever it is, what's for sure is that everybody goes through transition periods at some point in their lives. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Transition shakes us. It brings changes which can be both exciting and scary. Along with it comes vulnerability, uncertainty and that hanging feeling I can't quite put my finger on. Transition means losing something, or someone. Things won't be the same, for better or worse, we're not sure.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">It is because of these that we feel uneasy with transitions for the most part. But it's a reality of life that we will go through, albeit at different scales. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I resigned from a cushy job, recently moved back to my motherland, and gave up a sense of freedom when I moved back to my parent's place. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">It must be the rain, or getting stuck in the house for a few days that I found myself reflecting, not quite happily, about my personal transitions. I've been through major ones in the recent years, and yet I'm here again, with that nagging hanging feeling, trying to find the new normal. </span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Kiltepan, Sagada | June 2018</span></i></td></tr>
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<b><span style="color: magenta; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">1. We need space and time to process our feelings during period of transition. </span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Transition doesn't happen overnight, so why would you expect yourself to process your feelings - positive and negative, that quick? For the most part, I tried to act like everything will just gradually fall into place. Some did, but others needed a bit more work. I realized giving ourselves enough time and space can do a lot. An afternoon writing on your journal, a stroll along your favorite streets, a 12-hour van ride to Sagada. Anything that affords you space and time to step back, see beyond everyday chaos, and focus on what's really important for you. I doubt you can think about those when you're constantly in a crowded, busy place. </span></div>
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<b><span style="color: magenta; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">2. It's alright to grieve and cry for what you lost, and be giddy and excited for what's to come. </span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">It can be big or small, but you will lose something. A thing, a person, a habit, a feeling. I don't like crying over small things, but I realized that grieving is a normal process and that anyone should cry shamelessly if only to keep sane. I've lost some, but they're necessary so that I can move on and free up my heart for what's to come. And yes, we're allowed to be excited, and <i>kilig </i>about those yet-to-happen things too. </span></div>
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<b><span style="color: magenta; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">3. Find your anchors to help you through this time. </span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I like making things happen on my own. It's a mixture of upbringing (I grew up knowing that if I want anything to happen my way, I should work on it), and a sense of pride. When I struggle, I do it silently or at least try to. But transition brings so much doubts and insecurity, that doing it all alone will leave you so exhausted. It sucks out all the joy that's supposed to be part of a meaningful journey. If you're transitioning through life, in whatever form, find your anchors - trusted people, your passion, your faith. If you need help, go ask for it. Pray for it. And give back. </span></div>
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<b><span style="color: magenta; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">4. Vulnerability is shit scary, but you can find your strength from within. </span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">If there's one thing I'm scared about more than rodents, it's vulnerability. Who wouldn't? The moment I signed my resignation letter, I knew I was giving up financial security. The second my plane hits Philippine soil, I knew I was giving up comfort. But it is through losing control that we find humility in our hearts, and connects deeply with people and things that truly matter. When we're vulnerable, we are open to possible hurts, but that only means we're also open to receive grace and love, and kindness that we thought we didn't need. </span></div>
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<b><span style="color: magenta; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">5. Don't lose focus. Every transition brings a promise of something new. </span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Whether you go through transition at will or not, we have to remember that along with it comes hope. A promise of something new, something bigger, something brighter. Maybe even something we haven't thought possible, had we been in status quo. I vividly remember one of my closest friends telling me how she got laid off from her first IT job, which led her to her next job, which led her to bringing her whole family to start a new life in Australia. It happened for her, and it can happen to us too. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">If at all, this time of transition has led me to connect and reconnect with myself, my loved ones, my writing and even my country, on a whole new level. I hope these reflections can help you through your transitions too, and that we all emerge stronger and happier.</span></div>
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Bernadette Villanuevahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10555874160460926665noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5409899714143426695.post-62791567798712091542018-05-23T00:47:00.000+08:002018-05-23T01:05:03.058+08:00PSA: How to Renew Your Philippine Passport (2018)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I rarely ask for help via Facebook. I'm usually more comfortable directly messaging close friends or family for inquiries or if I need any recommendations. However, my recent saga to renew my Philippine Passport was so frustrating that it resulted to this semi-rant which I try to avoid doing on social media. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Apparently, this situation is all too familiar to many Filipinos based on the responses I got. If my memory serves me right, the system in the past allows walk-ins at the Department of Foreign Affair (DFA's) main office along Roxas Boulevard. I used to pass by that building almost every day during college and there were long lines all the time. My parents said you have to line up as early as 5 or 6 in the morning to make it to the day's cut off. Luckily, when I applied for my first passport in 2008, they had the satellite programme in selected malls. I had to queue at SM Manila, but it wasn't too bad. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />When I had to renew in 2013, the online appointment system was already established, which was an excellent idea! Except for the fact that many Filipinos especially the elderly are still not internet savvy, I still thought it was progressive and necessary. I remember booking an appointment for me and my mom without any problem, this time at DFA-South branch, located on the 4th level of Metro Town Center in Alabang, Muntinlupa. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">However, my recent experience booking an appointment wasn't too pleasant. For one, there were no available slots until end of June, and July onward were not even available. I tried booking an appointment at practically every province in the drop down list but only found one available slot - in LA UNION. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">From the comments and discussions I had after my Facebook post, we seem to have only 3 legitimate options: </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i>1. Get an appointment at any DFA office available and turn it into a holiday. Which is perfectly fine if you don't have a job, and fare and accommodation come free, but they don't. </i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i>2. Wait for slots to open, which they say happens from time to time. No guarantees. Maybe pray for luck? </i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i>3. Exercise your right to the courtesy lane as an OFW, PWD or Senior Citizens and Minors. If you fall under those categories, you can walk in but be really early as they have a cut-off number of transactions per day. According to the staff at DFA South, their capacity is only 50 per day. </i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i>4. This is not a legitimate option and I'm not advocating this by any means, but I heard that you can "buy" slots from fixers. <b>Please don't even dare.</b></i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Luckily, my passport only expires in December, which bought me a bit of time to wait. Two weeks after, I received messages from friends and concerned individuals (how powerful social media is!), advising me to log in quickly because DFA just opened new slots. It was at 2AM. Had I been working on a fixed day job like the majority, I probably would have been asleep and missed the train again. I was thankful but there has to be a better way than making people standby till wee hours in the morning! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Anyways, that's the back story. I promised myself to write this post after my saga with hope that it can help someone in the same situation. So let's move on to the more helpful part, shall we? </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>HOW TO BOOK YOUR APPOINTMENT ONLINE</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i>1. Schedule your appointment online at <a href="https://www.passport.gov.ph/appointment">https://www.passport.gov.ph/appointment </a>. To be fair, it's very easy to navigate and information, terms and conditions are clearly stated. You can book as family or individual and there's no fees to do so. Aside from the availability issues, the process of booking an appointment is very straightforward. You just have to choose a date and location and fill in your personal details which will automatically populate in the application form. </i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i>2. Once you've successfully set an appointment, you will receive a confirmation email which you have to print and show onsite. Please note that Yahoo! and Gmail are recommended, and always check your spam or junk folder. </i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i>3. After you secured your appointment and received the confirmation email, it's time to prepare the required documents. </i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>LIST OF REQUIREMENTS FOR NEW APPLICATIONS (Adult) </b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>LIST OF REQUIREMENTS FOR RENEWAL (Adult) </b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Remember that they may ask for supporting document for special cases. Please check further by clicking <a href="https://consular.dfa.gov.ph/passport/10-passport/61-passport-requirements-new-adu">HERE</a> for new application, and <a href="https://consular.dfa.gov.ph/passport/10-passport/62-passport-requirements-for-adult-renewal-applicants">HERE</a> for renewal. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">It's also important to note that Birth Certificates need to be authenticated by Philippine Statistics Authority or PSA (used to be known as NSO) and carry a validity date too. I ordered mine online through the PSA's <a href="https://www.ecensus.com.ph/Secure/Terms.aspx">E-Census</a>, paid PHP330 through one of the <a href="https://www.ecensus.com.ph/Secure/PaymentInstructions.aspx">accredited payment centers</a>, and waited for delivery after 3-4 working days. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>WHAT TO EXPECT DURING YOUR APPOINTMENT </b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i>1. Arrive no earlier than 30 minutes before your schedule. This helps DFA manage the flow of people so please cooperate. There are chairs lined up at the hall outside the office divided by time markers. Waiting time can be between 30-60 minutes depending on volume of applicants. DFA doesn't entertain late comers either. </i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i>2. The guards/staff will inform you when it's your turn to enter the office. They only allow 10-15 people at a time. First stop is the validation counter where you have to present your printed appointment page. Once validated, you can proceed inside the office and start with step 1 where they will check your documents. It was a long queue but applicants who were just renewing their passports were led to a side table which serves as an express counter since first time applicants get screened for a longer time. </i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i>3. Once done, you can proceed to the cashier for payment. Regular processing is PHP950 which takes 15-20 working days, while an expedited one costs PHP1,200 for only 7-10 working days. You can also choose to pick up your new passport or have it couriered to your home for an additional fee. </i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i>4. Once paid, you will have to again queue for encoding and photo. No accessories, glasses or colored contact lenses allowed. No smiling either! </i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i>5. The last step is the payment for the courier service, should you opt for delivery. It costs PHP150 if I remember it correctly. I decided to just pick up mine and I was able to get it in 10 minutes with no hassle. </i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">The whole process took me 2.5 hours, and the longest wait was at the encoding section. The staff were generally helpful and courteous, and the lady who processed my application even put an earlier pick up date even if I only paid for regular processing. I was able to get mine after only 9 working days and I'm happy with that. Being kind and smiling to customer service people has its perks!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>GOOD TO REMEMBER</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Renew your passport at least 6 months before its expiration date to avoid any problems when you travel, and remember that while your new passport is still being processed, you can still use your current one as long as it's still valid. You can just request that they cancel your old one (where they literally punch a whole on the info page) once you pick up your new passport.<br /><br />Overall, I still feel there's much to be improved in terms of waiting time, and especially about the volume of applicants vis-a-vis the availability of appointments. The demand obviously needs to be managed better, but I fully support the appointment system as it's more organized if implemented well. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">If there's one thing I rejoice about, it's the fact that I won't have to do this again in the next decade as all new passports issued from January 2018 now come with a 10-year validity. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I sure hope it will get better, more efficient, and maybe paperless by then!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"> </span>Bernadette Villanuevahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10555874160460926665noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5409899714143426695.post-3081556691104800232018-05-19T16:43:00.001+08:002018-05-19T17:04:06.452+08:00TRAVEL LOVE: Masungi Georeserve, Rizal Philippines <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://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSAs4veelrK0kASM8dysJASbTToGv-V8lz_kI83oW3J-wIY2j0BF9CL9BAs71R5cVommS_ob6Z4NWTG3_nTccFwGZzE2U9Xad2mI6xSD0AvU8EHivbnt1hNc78YTMQzyV0ed0NzxuIzOt-/s1600/GOPR0925.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSAs4veelrK0kASM8dysJASbTToGv-V8lz_kI83oW3J-wIY2j0BF9CL9BAs71R5cVommS_ob6Z4NWTG3_nTccFwGZzE2U9Xad2mI6xSD0AvU8EHivbnt1hNc78YTMQzyV0ed0NzxuIzOt-/s640/GOPR0925.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">What's ironic about being away from your country is how much you start to appreciate what your motherland has. Stepping back gives you a bigger perspective, and somehow a little guilt for not appreciating the beauty that's within your reach all along. There's no denying that the Philippines, with her over 7,000 islands, is home to some of the world's most beautiful places. I often find myself boasting about that every time I get asked where I'm from. I even get competitive, when someone suggests I go to this "best" beach, I'll be like "it better be good, I'm from the Philippines you know," with a half-meant joking smile. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Hence, when I decided to come home, I made it a mission to see and experience more of my country which I fondly call Project Pinas. I planned domestic trips in the next few months, as well as local experiences like food, shopping, night life. You can't run out of things to do, and gratefully, I have a little more time to spare now. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I took interest on <a href="http://www.masungigeoreserve.com/"><b>Masungi Georeserve</b> </a>when I first saw it on Instagram last year, and it's easy to see why. It's a gorgeous place, and definitely IG-worthy. But what piqued my interest the most is how the brilliant team behind this massive conservation project was able to rehabilitate these forests that used to be plagued by illegal logging and other activities like <i>kaingin </i>(cutting and burning of trees for cultivation purposes) and <i>pa-uuling</i> (charcoal making). </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i>The Masungi Georeserve is a conservation area and a rustic rock garden tucked in the rainforests of Rizal. Masungi's name is derived from the word "masungki" which translates to "spiked" - an apt description for the sprawling limestone landscape found within. - from official <a href="http://www.masungigeoreserve.com/">website </a></i></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">According to our dedicated tour guide, the conservation efforts started 15 years ago, and it took blood, sweat and tears to be where they are now. The fight with large-scale illegal loggers is a hard and dangerous feat, while the <i>kaingin</i> and <i>pag-uuling</i> activities were being done mostly by locals who didn't have alternative livelihood and lacked proper information and skills/training in doing sustainable practices. As someone who works in the sustainability arena specifically palm oil, I share the passion and the pains, too! What the Masungi Georeserve has become through years of dedicated work, education and engagements, is a resounding testament of how we can find balance between development and conservation, and because of that, I hope more people especially local tourists, support Masungi Georeserve. </span></span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i>This is from the chainsaw used by illegal loggers before Masungi's rehabilitation</i></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>If that's not enough, here are more reasons why you should go:</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1. <span style="color: magenta;"><b>Being close to nature is good for you.</b> </span>Masungi Georeserve is only 2 hours away from Manila, and is probably one of the closest spots to commune with nature. They feature 9 spots including the famous <i>Sapot ni Ric</i> (spider web platform) where you can appreciate the amazing view of Laguna de Bay, the largest lake in the Philippines. Tucked in the luscious mountains, your lungs will get a treat from the clean, fresh air while enjoying the natural sounds of nature - bird tweets, trees swaying and all. According to Japanese researchers who visited Masungi Georeserve recently, they found evidence of secretions from plants that strengthen and boost our immunity! How awesome is that? As cellphone signal is non-existent once you enter the compound, it's also a great way to disconnect, even just for a few hours. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">2. <b><span style="color: magenta;">The hike is exciting, challenging but not too hard.</span></b> The whole place is perfectly curated, from the base where you get a briefing and start your journey (Silungan), and throughout the whole hike. The trail is well-designed and already lined up by concrete blocks so it's friendly even for beginners. I have a fair experience in hiking back in Malaysia, and I personally like the ruggedness of natural, muddy trails, but it's not to say that the Masungi trail is boring. It still requires you to stretch and duck, as well as strategy and agility. Climbing up and down the ropes would also challenge your upper body strength and stretch your limbs. This is also the perfect way to conquer your fear of heights. I highly recommend to do some prep work for those who are not really active prior to the hike. Do some cardio exercises and stretching a few weeks before, it will really make a difference. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">3.<span style="color: magenta;"> <b>It's a good place to practice your camera skills.</b></span> Aside from the fact that it's naturally photogenic, the designers also did a good job to ensure that every nook and cranny is IG-worthy. While our tour guide, Kuya Reynan, probably holds all the secrets and tricks to get the perfect shots, it's also a great opportunity to practice some serious photography. After everything's over and done, you will be left with perfectly-captured memories. While my old iPhone 6s did pretty okay, I really think GoPro gave us the best shots because of the wider views and versatility. So bring one if you can! </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">4. <b><span style="color: magenta;">It's money well-spent.</span></b> Conservation fee of PHP1,500 on weekdays and PHP1,800 on weekends per individual may sound a lot at first. I wouldn't lie and say it's cheap, because I've been to hikes where we didn't need to pay for anything at all. However, after experiencing Masungi Georeserve firsthand, and seeing the commendable job they've done, I cancomfortably say that you get the bang for your buck. The trail features 9 interesting spots including the <i>Sapot ni Ric </i>(spider web platform), and the peaks Nanay and Tatay which give you a glorious 360 view of Sierra Madre mountain range. There are also rope climbs and hanging bridges which will both challenge and delight you, as well as the <i>Yungib ni Ruben</i> cave with stalactites (from the ceiling) and stalagmites (from the floor) formations. Depending on fitness level of the group, the whole hike may last from 3-5 hours. Safety is also a priority so everyone has to wear a helmet, and in the event that the course is too challenging, there are detour paths available. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">5. <b><span style="color: magenta;">It's the perfect family and <i>barkada </i>getaway.</span></b> All hikes are pre-scheduled, and you need at least 7 people to form a group (maximum of 14). There's a dedicated your guide who are mostly locals, so you get to enjoy the hike and bond with your own group instead of strangers, if you're not into that. Since the courses can be tough, it creates camaraderie and team work. One of my cousins has poor eye sight, so we made it a point to always have a buddy to look out for her. Another one fears heights, and we all cheered and encouraged her to finish the trail, and she did! They also give you a certificate and plant a tree to commemorate your visit. Yay!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Lastly, here are a few important notes and tips if you plan to go to Masungi Georeserve. For a full list of their policies, please click <a href="http://www.masungigeoreserve.com/georeserve-policies/">HERE</a>. </span></span></div>
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<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>No walk-ins allowed.</b> Request for a schedule <a href="http://www.masungigeoreserve.com/visitrequest/">HERE</a>. They are very responsive and everything went smoothly for us. You have to pay 50% upon booking, and the full payment before the actual day. We used BPI online transfer facility, and it was easy breezy. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">They offer <b>morning and evening hikes</b>, but I personally recommend to book an early morning schedule so it won't be too hot. It was cloudy when we got there and enjoyed a bit of drizzle, which we really didn't mind. But a sunny day makes the perfect backdrop for photos. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">It's a bit of a challenge to use public transportation, so <b>private cars/vans are recommended. </b></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>No food allowed</b> other than trail mix, biscuits and water. They provide light refreshments at the end of the trail - refreshing kalamansi juice, tuna sandwich and bananas, with wet towels, too! </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">No cigarettes and lighters allowed inside the premises. You have to surrender them before entering, and just collect them after. They are very strict on this one, and if you are caught, fine is PHP3,000, whether you lit a ciggie or not. Please don't start a wildfire. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">No littering. You have to bring out your trash with you as their bins are only meant for toilet papers, which they decompose themselves.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>Don't touch wildlife</b> or pick plants and flowers. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>Personal tipping is discouraged.</b> There are donation boxes instead. All the staff are very helpful and kind, and spoke impressive Filipino! Be generous. </span></li>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I hope you have the best time like we did. If you have comments, questions or additional tips, do connect with me in the comment section or by email, so I can update this post for the benefit of other readers/travelers. Happy travels!</span></div>
Bernadette Villanuevahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10555874160460926665noreply@blogger.com0Rizal, Philippines14.6037446 121.3084088000000513.6203091 120.01751530000006 15.587180100000001 122.59930230000005tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5409899714143426695.post-67498633471234653182018-05-18T01:27:00.000+08:002018-05-18T03:33:40.163+08:00Jump Starting Life<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjioYhAK1OmOghysZJaF-wEOzrHeYIqOQZfoGamXGQx2OCum7vFWKBxfXlO2umSETJXBbl7eCj0LCW-OkI86J_Bv95CiIcF6hl7nWRc_vKSPtFBLipWwnKWMibOvgRvfRXKq9YlEGs4QEi/s1600/Masungi+Georeserve+.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="904" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjioYhAK1OmOghysZJaF-wEOzrHeYIqOQZfoGamXGQx2OCum7vFWKBxfXlO2umSETJXBbl7eCj0LCW-OkI86J_Bv95CiIcF6hl7nWRc_vKSPtFBLipWwnKWMibOvgRvfRXKq9YlEGs4QEi/s640/Masungi+Georeserve+.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">Masungi Georeserve | May 2018 </span></i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Life is full of jump starts. I often find myself, sometimes unknowingly, at a crossroad having to end one thing to start a new one. Be them jobs, cities, relationships.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I started blogging in 2009 when my interest leaned towards beauty and lifestyle. I've made a few small brand collaborations, met amazing blogger friends (hello, team E!) and a handful of staple readers who became online friends almost. But with my demanding agency life, blogging remained just that. An outlet for my 20s energy, and a place to share what I can and find things I looked for.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">When I moved abroad in 2014, I've basically lost most of my interest in writing about beauty stuff. I still love skincare and makeup, and clothes and shoes just like any other girl I know, but I didn't find joy in writing about them anymore. Plus, a new city proved exciting. I found more joy doing things offline. I joined dance classes, took painting tutorials, hunted local foods, and explored Kuala Lumpur and eventually neighboring cities on long weekends.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">A more balanced work life also allowed me some time to rediscover my love for pen and paper. I wrote before bed and collected journals and doodle sheets and dream boards. I also got obsessed with fitness and traveling, which led me to contribute to different websites, the latest one being Manila Bulletin's online sports and fitness portal, <a href="https://mbody.ph/author/bernadette-villanueva/">MBody. </a></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I'm now at another crossroad and jump starting life. My <a href="https://neurochiq.blogspot.com/2018/04/this-ends-that-begins-thoughts-on.html">last post </a>would give you a sweet lowdown. After my big KL adventure, I'm back in my motherland for a while, and on a quest to rediscover her more before my next big jump start. I'll talk about that soon enough.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I have no illusion of building a blogging empire, not then and not now, but touching a life or two with my personal experiences, losses and wins at life, would be a great plus.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">So where do we start? Adulting? Workouts? Food? Travel? Love?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Whatever you're here for, come chase life with me.</span><br />
<br />Bernadette Villanuevahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10555874160460926665noreply@blogger.com0Philippines12.879721 121.77401699999996-2.7910679999999992 101.11971999999996 28.55051 142.42831399999994tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5409899714143426695.post-28332324896256575022018-04-05T01:15:00.000+08:002018-04-05T02:25:17.216+08:00This Ends, That Begins: Thoughts on leaving KL <br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>Trivia:</b> This is called 'wau bulan' or moon kite, one of Malaysia's icons. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">To me, it means being free yet grounded. </span><br />
<b><i style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">IG: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BfzgZqhgU_P/?taken-by=neurochiq">Neurochiq</a></i></b></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">There's no easy way to say this: My #KLChronicles have ended. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I won't lie. Leaving Malaysia was not an easy, worry-free decision. Kuala Lumpur or KL has been my home for more than three years, and it's been good to me. I didn't say breezy, but this place embraced me in every way possible. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Looking back, leaving the comforts and familiarity of home to build a life and career in a foreign city was not a walk in the park. Lonely days were plenty, and I've lost count how many times I've asked myself if I did the right thing. This decision cost me important relationships and milestones. To this day, I still regret that I wasn't home to be with my <i>lola</i> (grandma) during her last few months with us. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">At almost 30, making new friends then wasn't easy. I'm a fake extrovert, I dislike crowd and it takes me forever to warm up to and truly trust people. While I enjoy being on my own, there were times when I also longed for company of friends and family, and Skype calls were not always enough. I eventually made friends, not many but really good ones! </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I often get asked how long it took me to adjust and if I'm being honest, it was close to a year before I finally felt comfortable and not always out of place. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">KL is not the 'best' city. Transportation is so much better, food is amazing, and people are generally nice and warm. I feel safer at night and I can't complain how reasonable rent and utilities are. But just like Manila, KL has its flaws. I found everything slower and things can be inefficient while customer service is a pain in the butt. But 'best' to me has always been subjective. KL may not be as organised as Singapore nor as glam and metropolitan as Dubai, but it was </span><i style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">my</i><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> perfect city. I enjoyed better quality of life - think less traffic/wasted time, home cooked and cheap meals at my fingertips, and for the first time my life, real work-life balance. My finances started to recover and I was blessed to be able to do one of the things I love the most. Living in a travel hub, I was able to fly to more places. In a way, KL led me to Thailand, Vietnam, Brunei, Singapore, Indonesia, UAE, France, Spain, Italy. I met the Pope! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I've also grown so much professionally. I've worked with brilliant minds in business and PR from different parts of the world. I was exposed to different cultures and experiences that I wouldn't get back home. Entering a new market and getting connected to a wider global network stretched my limits and kept me on my toes, and my competitive self loved it. I thrived. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">To say that my personal life went through hell and back is an understatement. Independence can get you drunk. It was so easy to feel disconnected from people and things that truly mattered. There were days I've forgotten (or chose to forget) the reasons why I took the job and left home in the first place. Without a purpose, I felt like running into a black hole and it wasn't pretty. You wake up without an ounce of motivation, go through your day mindlessly, and end in bed exhausted from you don't know exactly what. But it's true what my mother always say: <i>may</i> <i>bukas pa naman (there's still tomorrow)</i>. No matter how bad things were, the sun still shined the next day, and life continued. I gradually learned to take things one step at a time, I learned about patience. I discovered it's okay to not be always in control and let things be. I became less hard on myself and on others. I started forgiving beyond words, and once I healed, I started to <i>really</i> live. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Three and a half years forward, and every good story has to end. How we take the ending and move forward though, is up to us. KL will forever have a place in my heart and mind, it's etched on my skin. More than a place I call second home, it's a beautiful chapter in my life story. An eventful one.<b> It's where I lost some but gained more. It's where I felt humble but victorious. It's where I found my purpose and felt truly free. It's also where love led and found me. </b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">My #KLChronicles have ended so a new wonderful era can begin. I'm forever grateful but I can't wait for my next adventure, this time not solo. </span><br />
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<br />Bernadette Villanuevahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10555874160460926665noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5409899714143426695.post-63055607469363313302017-01-04T12:58:00.000+08:002017-01-04T17:38:00.838+08:00El Nido, Palawan, Philippines: Why this island paradise should be your next destination<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i><b>Note: <a href="http://www.the-binge.com/2017/01/03/el-nido-palawan-affordable-island-paradise-philippines/">Edited article originally published on The Binge. </a>Below is the longer, more personal account of my trip. Have fun reading and GO.TO. PALAWAN. NOW.</b></i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The Philippines
boasts of some of the most stunning beaches in the world. Why not, with its
more than 7,000 islands, mostly untouched by modernity, it is easy to see why
this archipelago has been creating noise as the next Asian beach hotspot. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Having been
raised in the Philippines where fine white sands and turquoise waters are
considered basic, my standard for beach getaways is pretty high. It is easy to
name Philippine beach destinations – Boracay, Moalboal, Panglao, Siargao and I’m
sure there are more, but one place always lands the top of the list: El Nido, Palawan.
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I recently
visited the once sleepy town during my <i>balik
kampung (“return to village/home”)</i>, and boy it blew my mind! There I saw
astonishing limestone cliffs, beautiful lagoons, colourful sea creatures and
probably the most amazing sunset. I also discovered that while El Nido was once
known for luxurious 5-star island resorts which made it seem unreachable, it
has now evolved to catering to mid and even low budget travelers. </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Thanks to
low-cost airlines, growing interest in backpacking and DIY traveling and the
wonders of crowdsourcing, there is really no reason not to visit this paradise.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Here is the
lowdown on El Nido:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The best time to visit<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Summer in the
Philippines is typically from February to May. However, it is also known for
unpredictable rains so it is best to keep track. We traveled in November and
enjoyed four days of sun and two days of rain. The good thing is that we were
able to take advantage of non-peak rates as the high season (and price) starts only
in December. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>Getting to El Nido</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">El Nido is a
small municipality in the northern tip of the province of Palawan. There is no
international flight to El Nido so you have to fly to Manila and then jump on a
domestic flight to Puerto Princesa, Palawan. I bought my KL-Manila-KL ticket via
Air Asia for RM650 and Manila-Puerto Princesa-Manila ticket via Cebu Pacific
for Php3,600 (RM323).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">From Puerto
Princesa airport, you can ride a tricycle (Fiipino version of tuk-tuk) for
Php50 (RM 4.50) to the terminal and take a bus for Php380 (RM34). The bus ride
will take about seven hours. Alternatively, you can take the van from the
airport for Php500 (RM45) saving you one hour of travel time. The road is paved
but ride could be bumpy. I suggest to take a pill if you are prone to motion
sickness. We learned it the hard way. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Where to stay <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">If you are a
backpack traveler, check out <a href="https://www.facebook.com/ourmeltingpotelnido/">OMP Hostel</a>
(Php 350/night or RM31). They offer group tours, and my friends all vouched for
its no-frills, homey feel. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We stayed at </span><a href="http://spinhostel.com/" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">SPIN
Designer Hostel</a><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> located
at the heart of the town and got the private double room with AC and ensuite
bathroom for Php2,600 or RM235/night. I loved the place because it’s a balance
of comfort and affordability. It is tastefully designed, clean and the staff
are helpful. Plus, I like the fact that since it’s a hostel, you still get to
mingle and talk with fellow travelers while still having some privacy. They
also serve really good breakfast complete with pancake and egg station, breads,
jams and cheese, fruits and unlimited coffee and juice.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">If you feel
like splurging or on honeymoon, there are world-renowned luxury island resorts
like <a href="http://www.elnidoresorts.com/lagen-island/">El Nido Resorts Lagen Island</a> or <a href="http://palawanwonders.com/el-nido/matinloc-resort/">Matinloc Resort</a> with price ranging from Php20,000 to
Php100,000 or RM2,200 to RM9,000/night.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Now that you
know the travel basics, let me walk you through the million-dollar question – <b>What to do in El Nido?</b> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i>Secret Beach</i></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>Explore the islands</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">If there is one
reason to visit El Nido, it’s definitely to go island-hopping! There are several
island hopping tour package to choose from and a gazillion tour providers lined
up the street. <span style="background-color: white; text-align: justify;">Look for </span><strong style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; text-align: justify;">Emma’s Travel & Tours</strong><span style="background-color: white; text-align: justify;"> around the corner of </span><strong style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; text-align: justify;">Serena Street</strong><span style="background-color: white; text-align: justify;"> for the lowest prices. </span>The tour packages are usually as follows:</span></div>
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<li class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>Tour A:</b> Big Lagoon, Small Lagoon,
Simizu Island, Secret Lagoon and 7 Commando Beach<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>Tour B:</b> Entalula Island,
Pinagbuyutan Island, Snake Island, Cudugnon Cave and Cathedral Cave<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>Tour C:</b> Hidden Beach, Helicopter
Island, Secret Beach, Matinloc Shrine and Star Beach<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>Tour D:</b> Bukal Beach, Ipil Beach,
Paradise Beach, Cadlao Lagoon and Pasandigan Island<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">You can also do
a combination tour with A+C being the most popular. Price ranges from Php 1,200
(RM108) for one tour or Php1,500 (RM135) for combination (plus Php200/person
for environmental fee) which already includes buffet lunch, snorkel gears and
English-speaking and friendly tour guide. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Our guide, Victor, was a powerhouse –
telling us all the information about the islands while throwing gossips of who
owns which island and making jokes on the side. </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The combination tour last the
whole day from 8am to 5pm. We joined the A+C tour which brought us to a total
of seven islands with 20 to 30-minute stay in each plus a good spread of rice,
grilled fish, meat and fruits for lunch. It was worth every penny!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">If you’re not
in a hurry, you can take each tour on its own, but for time and budget’s sake,
a combination tour would be the better choice. If you’re traveling in a group
of 5 or more, you can rent a private boat for Php3,500-4,000 (RM315-360)
depending on your haggling skills, and customise your itinerary instead.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIdC5OZen5YHOViZgV7DTKitRrHJNkE8jK5k4kI5CGM5RAQaAR5SQquuxKi_hUsSOT2oZ05uBMt5e6Vj_od8X758bW4MP44Cm7m25DglvhIDt_IYgiibgy7YKQApdIHeZc_OPekqJpXckI/s1600/Elnido+pic4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIdC5OZen5YHOViZgV7DTKitRrHJNkE8jK5k4kI5CGM5RAQaAR5SQquuxKi_hUsSOT2oZ05uBMt5e6Vj_od8X758bW4MP44Cm7m25DglvhIDt_IYgiibgy7YKQApdIHeZc_OPekqJpXckI/s640/Elnido+pic4.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i>Kayaking at Small Lagoon</i></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Each of the
islands and lagoons has its own charms and are equally stunning. It is hard to
choose one over the other but my favorite has to be the Small Lagoon. You can
rent a kayak for Php300 (RM27) to explore the inner caves and magnificent
limestone formations. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Do not forget
to bring enough water, snacks and sunscreen with at least SPF 30. A good pair
of sunnies and a hat will also come handy. Do look out for the floating coconut
vendor, too. Filipinos are truly hardworking hence the fishermen normally
moonlight as coconut/ice cream or beer vendors at sea!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJIyYq8XF9EXTsWEx8ntiWcKQhRvQWWr-lFuysfe8G7rxg41j8hyphenhyphenvAcZLogfqui7GXXYsteItFJJtO4O_treU7rIw5B9TyShZbVx-NGYyFLJYwoixq35Z4Z8vQXppcicplEIqJuAhKOD7Z/s1600/15095587_10208195440187229_3329595309501989174_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJIyYq8XF9EXTsWEx8ntiWcKQhRvQWWr-lFuysfe8G7rxg41j8hyphenhyphenvAcZLogfqui7GXXYsteItFJJtO4O_treU7rIw5B9TyShZbVx-NGYyFLJYwoixq35Z4Z8vQXppcicplEIqJuAhKOD7Z/s1600/15095587_10208195440187229_3329595309501989174_n.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>Hired a private boatman ;)</i></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<b><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Lay on Las Cabanas beach all day</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">A 15-20-minute
tricycle ride from the town, Las Cabanas beach is famous among tourists and is
a perfect place to sun bathe and enjoy a lazy day. The beach is very clean and
the water is clear. There are bars and restaurants that provide deck
chairs for its customers. Stay until 6pm for a spectacular sunset. The fare for
the tricycle is Php150/way (RM13.50) and you can arrange for your driver to
pick you up at the end of the day. </span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaODZEjBYd5Lzn9xy4nYpc0DKS_iBrOgmAjIqCZ00sQ0inmOQXWumwiyyxu2lzNcuNX6heLQVvCoeVCfCNIeDm_Ky5MAJf8jyQp6cIhfNOhOts5Q1dgUehk-C4pv5ncnTtdY5426lyowNJ/s1600/Elnido+pic5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaODZEjBYd5Lzn9xy4nYpc0DKS_iBrOgmAjIqCZ00sQ0inmOQXWumwiyyxu2lzNcuNX6heLQVvCoeVCfCNIeDm_Ky5MAJf8jyQp6cIhfNOhOts5Q1dgUehk-C4pv5ncnTtdY5426lyowNJ/s640/Elnido+pic5.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i>Sunset at Las Cabanas</i></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><b><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Take the Zip line</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Also located at
Las Cabanas, the zip line is 750 meters long and connects to a nearby island.
It is short but fun and gives you a good view of the sea and surrounding
islands. You have to hike for 5-10 minutes, take the zip line and then walk along
the coastline back to the beach. Two-way zip line is also available but I didn’t
mind walking the rocky shores as the view is pretty nice too. Price is Php500
(RM45) for a one-way trip.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOWpaF47rUOA36MO9LAS0sm4nRFI5cgezDiAtFFaW_V82GMB4XxkPy9YPDKOhQTNAKiOXRMre1g3o16uGSHIqwxl3BqRZC9nhCbuBIR9ibMYRMEjaimzuqKUSGy5KHT__Vs2woX0pDPq8S/s1600/Elnido+pic6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOWpaF47rUOA36MO9LAS0sm4nRFI5cgezDiAtFFaW_V82GMB4XxkPy9YPDKOhQTNAKiOXRMre1g3o16uGSHIqwxl3BqRZC9nhCbuBIR9ibMYRMEjaimzuqKUSGy5KHT__Vs2woX0pDPq8S/s640/Elnido+pic6.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Go on a road trip to Nacpan beach <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We rented a
motorbike for Php400 (RM36) and rode to Nacpan beach for about an hour. The
road is 80% paved and the rest is bumpy and muddy, but it’s all part of the
fun! You’ll pass by long stretches of dense mountains and green fields littered
with carabaos, cows, goats and flocks of white birds. The ride itself is a
treat!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">If you cannot
ride a motorbike, you can rent a <i>habal-habal</i> (motorbike with a driver) or a
tricycle to bring you to Nacpan beach for Php 1,500/day (RM135). </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Upon reaching Nacpan,
you have to pay an environmental fee of Php30 (RM2.70). The beach is pristine
and there are a few huts that sell Filipino meals, fruit shakes and fresh
coconuts. There are no big resorts but I saw a few rooms for rent if you wish
to stay the night. We stayed for the rest of the afternoon and decided to head
back to town before dark because there are no street lights.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj_8qlLKKADuRJaSMq8I6qyucMd0l-l7We4k7HYkrfXa7nbC9Uw5EahA4HN-lTVGu1z55S1qAMb628JDG5sXY2mRejMniilFxd0NIk5tDbfcJOjmt2dzFRLoBoHc_s-0gHH3u2GseRUsy_/s1600/Elnido+pic7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj_8qlLKKADuRJaSMq8I6qyucMd0l-l7We4k7HYkrfXa7nbC9Uw5EahA4HN-lTVGu1z55S1qAMb628JDG5sXY2mRejMniilFxd0NIk5tDbfcJOjmt2dzFRLoBoHc_s-0gHH3u2GseRUsy_/s640/Elnido+pic7.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i>Roadside on the way to Nacpan Beach</i></span></td></tr>
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<b><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Climb Taraw Cliff</span></b></div>
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<span style="background: white; color: #313131;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">About 230 meters above sea level, Taraw cliff offers a
panoramic view of Bacuit Bay. The hike takes around an hour depending on your
strength and ability, but it’s not for the faint-hearted. The terrain is rocky,
very steep and filled with sharp limestone rocks and is often hiked with no safety
ropes which makes it quite risky. However, once you reach the peak, the view
will take your breath away. </span></span></div>
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<span style="background: white; color: #313131;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">If you decide to go YOLO, you have to book a guide
for Php500/person (RM45) with minimum of two persons. Make sure to wear proper
hiking shoes (no slippers!) and bring water. It’s also advisable to wear long
pants and put on sunblock. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1ATQDM7GsFjqxAdpung-7fC5rKAa7Au2fJeXkaEvmqKs6lBgZMp1pRN-YUDSOKqkcWBnRJw7kdKi0AKkbXxMRfD-6pS5A8kQ9uFUJlLDQLsYF51ZrLJG6mD-fVdtS5n8-6fqOqzDhWcv8/s1600/Taraw+Peak.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1ATQDM7GsFjqxAdpung-7fC5rKAa7Au2fJeXkaEvmqKs6lBgZMp1pRN-YUDSOKqkcWBnRJw7kdKi0AKkbXxMRfD-6pS5A8kQ9uFUJlLDQLsYF51ZrLJG6mD-fVdtS5n8-6fqOqzDhWcv8/s640/Taraw+Peak.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
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<i><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Giant limestone karst
overlooking El Nido town | Photo courtesy of Jefferson Co</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Go crazy with food</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">El Nido has
lots of food places ranging from local to Asian and Western cuisines. We made
it a point to try different restaurants but we didn’t really find one single
place to rave about. Little Italy’s pizza was good.
Mezzanine’s homemade pasta was great, but the pizza was so-so. Altrove’s pizza, which
has raving reviews, disappointed us with its gummy crust. I wanted to give it a
second chance but we were only able to try it on our last night as the queue
was always long. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">There are good seafood places along the bay where you can buy fresh fish, squid, prawns, and other types of shellfish – cooked the way you want. Garlic butter is a must try!</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Make
sure to try the Philippines’ own beer, San Miguel, which is known as one of the
best in Asia. For a stronger kick, go for Red Horse beer. If you are on the
adventurous side, try Palawan’s crocodile sisig (minced crocodile meat cooked
on a sizzling plate with onions and chilies) and tamilok (woodworm). There is
something for everyone!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Go bar hopping <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">As El Nido
became more touristy, bars and party places abound around the town and along
the bay. Our hostel arranges pub crawl nights where you get to bar hop with the
other travelers, which I think is a cool way to meet new people especially for solo
travelers. We opted to go drinking at our own pace, and ended up watching live
bands and fire dancers at <b>Pukka Bar</b> for two nights in a row. Even if you’re not
into drinking, you can still walk along the beach under the moonlight and just enjoy the
atmosphere.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Get a massage and try the traditional
Filipino ‘Hilot’ <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We ended our
6-day trip with a cheap but really good massage. You can get one by Las Cabanas beach for Php600/hour (RM54) for Swedish or combination massage, or
choose among the many small massage parlours in the town proper where it’s even
cheaper at Php400/hour (RM36). Just take note that these are just basic beds
with curtain dividers so it’s not for the picky. If you want the spa ambiance
and experience, go to <a href="http://www.theorganicspa.ph/">The Organic Spa</a> but make sure to book in advance as the
waiting time can be long. While you’re at it, give the traditional Filipino
massage called ‘Hilot’ a try. It’s a deep tissue massage with coconut oil and
banana leaves and is believed to have healing effects. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Mother nature
has outdone herself with El Nido because every nook and cranny is postcard perfect.
I have snorkeled in quite a few places in and outside the Philippines but only
El Nido made me scream underwater. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">By the time we reached the third site
where the famed Matinloc Shrine is, I’m already convinced that it’s time to stop
making excuses and take the diving course that I’ve always wanted but never
really pursued. You see, traveling does wonders to one’s personal growth. It
helps you clear your mind and break away from the routine inspiring you to take
action. In my case, it drove me to finally chase a lifelong dream. If you
haven’t been to El Nido, do yourself a favor and book the next flight out.
You’ll be surprised what this charming place can do to you. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Are you visiting anytime soon? Let me know how it goes! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Cheers,</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">B</span></div>
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Bernadette Villanuevahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10555874160460926665noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5409899714143426695.post-12209802174710387242016-12-13T16:14:00.000+08:002016-12-13T17:42:10.762+08:00BigGirlMoves: Two Years of Independence <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><strong>30 NOV 2016.</strong> Exactly two years since I moved to Kuala Lumpur and started a new phase in my career and life overall. I often make fun of it calling little things </span><a class="_58cn" data-ft="{"tn":"*N","type":104}" href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/biggirlmoves?source=feed_text&story_id=10208283805036295"><span class="_5afx"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span aria-label="hashtag" class="_58cl _5afz">#</span><span class="_58cm">BigGirlMoves</span></span></span></a><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">. From paying all the bills, washing my own clothes (call me a princess but I've never washed my clothes for 29 years), cooking all my meals or starve to death, to changing light bulbs. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> My key takeaways? </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1. <strong>There's no victory too small to celebrate.</strong> So feel free dance when you assemble that IKEA furniture perfectly, or cooked your first decent meal. How about learning how to fold fitted bed sheets properly after simply hurling it in the closet for years? </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">2.<strong> You'll find a r</strong><span class="text_exposed_show"><strong>eason to be grateful every damn day if you only know where to look. </strong>Oprah's 'What I Know for Sure' suggests that you list three things you are grateful for every day and I've been doing that for a while now - sometimes literally, often just in my mind. I take time in the mornings upon waking up to look out my window and just say thank you for three (most of days more) things. It can be for a bright day because I don't like the rain, a comfy bed sheet, a loved one's good morning message, a migraine-free day, an exciting pitch presentation, or completing an 8-hour sleep. Nothing is too big or too small to a grateful heart. </span></span><br />
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<span class="text_exposed_show"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">3. <strong>Change is the only constant thing.</strong> It can be good or bad, depends on perspective, but what's for sure is that it will lead you to the next stage of your journey. People are often scared by change, and I used to be until I stopped looking at it like a death sentence. Sure, change can mean an end of a beautiful relationship, closing an exciting era at work, or even loved ones going away. But change can also mean opening loads of opportunities that otherwise you won't get by maintaining status quo. New people, relationships, experiences, places, challenges - these and more can happen after going through major changes in life. Have faith that the Higher Being has a master plan for each of us and that it is nothing but great. So just keep on moving!</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span class="text_exposed_show">I often get asked how moving overseas has treated me. Well, it wasn't all easy nor fun. I've made mistakes. I've missed a lot of important moments and people back home. I've repeatedly doubted my decision to live solo. I've been sick, lonely and stressed to the brink. But at the end of the day, when all the emotions (maybe hormones too) subside, I'm convinced that I am where I am for a reason, and that it's all worth it. I lost some, I gained some. </span><span class="text_exposed_show">I feel like I've grown 10 years in 24 months and I'm not exaggerating a bit. </span><span class="text_exposed_show">I'm a different person. Wiser, kinder, more grounded. Appreciative of various people and cultures. Stronger and more stern of my personal beliefs. More sure of what I want in life. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> So to answer directly, it was one hell of a scary ride, but it's an exciting and liberating one! So cheers to a city that's been good to me, to clingy homies who became more like sisters, to an amazing team at work, to new friends and to old friends and family who always support me and welcome me back like I never left.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial";">It may sound cliché but I'm one blessed girl, and I wouldn't deny that. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhullAhMKgLdClimlZVpH89A6s0dzQg-svd-0UxXW_60lJHf_y2lnr2uXfb4bkBoGpNW2LELYahWSlAk4aNMnxnHwnzhcLgU4QWstHbXW8K-rb9RXgox5uDy1eQF2YJmwBZYYkAguhwgxfC/s1600/15168696_10208283372105472_2805733264075740536_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhullAhMKgLdClimlZVpH89A6s0dzQg-svd-0UxXW_60lJHf_y2lnr2uXfb4bkBoGpNW2LELYahWSlAk4aNMnxnHwnzhcLgU4QWstHbXW8K-rb9RXgox5uDy1eQF2YJmwBZYYkAguhwgxfC/s640/15168696_10208283372105472_2805733264075740536_o.jpg" width="360" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">YOLO photo from my recent trip | El Nido, Palawan, Philippines </span></td></tr>
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Bernadette Villanuevahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10555874160460926665noreply@blogger.com3Kuala Lumpur, Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia3.139003 101.686854999999922.885326 101.36413149999993 3.3926800000000004 102.00957849999992tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5409899714143426695.post-23179883185085754482016-05-17T17:11:00.003+08:002016-05-31T17:20:04.224+08:00#BirthdayGirl 2016: Of Temples & Freedom <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I have a confession. I'm a Grinch for birthdays. My own that is. For some silly reason, I feel less sunny rather than festive so it takes a little more effort to make this day count. I'm not huge on gifts either. I'm a sucker for quality time and conversations and experiences. So I've long abandoned throwing birthday parties and would rather spend my moolah on traveling. New places to see, experiences to remember, people to meet, lessons to learn. Sounds like a good way to celebrate another year of life and blessings. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Birthday travel tradition:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">2011 - Hong Kong</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">2012 - Kota Kinabalu, Sabah </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">2013 - Boracay </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">2014 - Hong Kong & Macau </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">2015 - Break for my dear lola's passing. Traveled home to Philippines instead. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">For 2016, I've set my eyes on one destination alone - CAMBODIA. And boy, it didn't disappoint. Aside from the unforgiving drought that turned the fields brown, Cambodia is everything I expected and more. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1. <strong>Angkor National Museum</strong> in Siem Reap is a great pre-temple destination to learn about Khmer history and the context behind the intricate art, monuments and carvings that you will see in the temples. It's a bit costly at USD12 (plus USD3 for audio device), but well worth the money. The artifacts are well-preserved and in good condition. There's also audio-visual presentations that you can play in several languages which is cool. The whole building is also air-conditioned and has a mini café. With Siem Reap's temperature reaching 40 degrees Celsius, a few hours in the museum is a welcome respite. </span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><em>Photography is not allowed inside the exhibit halls, hence.</em></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">2. <strong>Angkor Wat Temple</strong> is as grand as I imagined it to be. In scale (the largest religious monument in the world), detail and history, it will leave anyone in awe. Aside from the famous Angkor Wat temple, the Angkor Complex also includes symbolic sites like the Angkor Thom, the Bayon Temple and Ta Prohm which was made famous by Angelina Jolie's Tomb Raider movie. A sunrise tour which consists of sunrise watching (of course!), visit to five temples, English speaking guide and round van transfer is only USD13, which to me is a really good deal. You only need to pay additional USD20 for a day pass to the temples. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">3. <strong>Khmer cuisine</strong> is much like a fusion of everything Asian. Mix of Thai, Malay and Indian dishes. Not the most distinct to be honest, but there's two Khmer dishes that you should try. The Beef Lok Lak which is the Cambodian version of beef stewed in tomatoes and onions, usually served with rice and egg, and the Khmer Amok which basically is meat (often fish or chicken) cooked in curry and rich coconut milk. Both are flavourful, though having been living in KL for quite some time, I'm lacking on the spiciness so, extra chili please!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">4. If you're a history geek, you'll know that Cambodia has been through a horrific war in the recent times. In fact, the war only ended in 1999! Spare some time and read about the brutal </span><a href="http://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-pacific-10684399"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Khmer Rouge regime</span></a><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> and decide for yourself if you want to include the Genocide Museum and Killing Fields in the capital city of Phnom Penh. I was content to visit the </span><a href="http://www.warmuseumcambodia.com/"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">War Museum</span></a><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> in Siem Reap instead. Here we met </span><a href="http://www.warmuseumcambodia.com/visitorinformation/guides/mounsinath/"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Moun Sinath</span></a><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">, a war veteran who now works as a guide in the museum. He's known to many as 'the cat', as he survived multiple shots and a landmine injury before finally retiring from the army. Visiting the war museum is a natural eye opener and made me realize how fortunate I am to be born in a time and place of peace. I'm sure the rest of the tour visitors felt the same. </span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><em>"The Cat" showing us shrapnels still inside his body</em></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">5. <strong>The rural life in Siem Reap</strong> reminded me of my mom's province in the Philippines, Pampanga. Spent the afternoon riding water buffalo cart, biking around and waving to kids, bullying the baby cows to take photos with me and just watching the sunset, magnificent as always. It was also the perfect spot to say a prayer of thanks for another year of life and the freedom that I've been enjoying immensely. </span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><em>Channeling my inner yogi</em></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Other important stuff to remember:</span><br />
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<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Beer is hellah cheap at USD0.35/mug. Cocktails are not bad either at USD1.50. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Contrary to my expectation, Cambodia is not a cheap city. Aside from alcohol and accommodation, everything else is a little pricey. Each meal will cost around USD4-6. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">They accept USD everywhere, but conversion rate is up to the store. =P I came to a point when I already gave up computing my change. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Tuk Tuk is expensive at USD 2-4 for walkable distance around Pub Street and Night Markets. So start walking. It's healthier too!</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial";">It's hot. It's sticky. Be prepared with sunscreen, water, towel and hat if you may.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial";">Wear sleeved top and pants/skirt below the knee. Otherwise, you cannot go up the Angkor Wat temple. Scarves/sarong won't make the cut. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Begging and garbage on the streets are quite common. Also, </span><a href="http://www.movetocambodia.com/siem-reap/cambodia-scams-the-powdered-milk-scam/"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">milk scam</span></a><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> is still happening, unfortunately. Be aware and alert, especially if you're a solo female traveler. </span></li>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">And that folks, sums up my week in Cambodia. I'm one happy #BirthdayGirl indeed. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Love and light to every one, </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">B</span>Bernadette Villanuevahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10555874160460926665noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5409899714143426695.post-39286775371153219742016-04-07T14:32:00.004+08:002016-04-07T14:35:00.409+08:00An Ode to Bali<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I haven't been traveling as much as I should the past months. Life happened in 2015. A whole lot. A quick, 3-day getaway to Bali may not sound much, but it's all I needed to align my stars, lift my spirit and indulge in the wonderfully odd feeling of going somewhere unfamiliar, doing something new, smelling the air and everything in between. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><strong>Bali, I raise my glass to you, with warm, sweaty skin and sandy hands!</strong></span><br />
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<em><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">For the opportunity to see more of this amazing world, indulge in its culture and nuances</span></em><br />
<em><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">For meeting new people, hearing differing thoughts, getting inspired by innocent displays of bravery and free spirits</span></em><br />
<em><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">For helping me understand myself more, convinced that I can be alone and not lonely - but that I'd rather be with someone: a friend, a lover, a random stranger, an island dog </span></em><br />
<em><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">For making new friends, lending a helping hand, receiving one in return, learning a thing or two however, whichever way possible </span></em><br />
<em><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">For letting me rebel in my independence, my freedom and complete control</span></em><br />
<em><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">For willingly letting go of that control</span></em><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><em>For celebrating friendships, of both days and decades </em></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><em>For learning how to follow lead and for the unfamiliar feeling of warmth and protection</em></span><br />
<em><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">For failing,understanding and waking up still bright-eyed and wanting</span></em><br />
<em><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">For realising that I needed something more, someone more, than my seemingly efficient, sometimes oblivious self </span></em><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><em>For painlessly pulling my guards down, and for finally accepting that there's nothing wrong in receiving</em></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />Bernadette Villanuevahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10555874160460926665noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5409899714143426695.post-70958277121213968502015-12-04T10:14:00.000+08:002015-12-04T10:14:04.705+08:00365 Days of #BigGirlMoves<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><em>Waking up to this beauty | Brunei Nov 2015</em></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span data-reactid=".1.1.0.0.2.1.0.0.1"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span data-reactid=".1.1.0.0.2.1.0.0.1.0">November 30 marks my first year of living solo and working overseas. It's odd that I'm spending this day in Brunei</span><span data-reactid=".1.1.0.0.2.1.0.0.1.2"> rather than my second home in KL. </span><span data-reactid=".1.1.0.0.2.1.0.0.1.4">But it's never just about the place. It's about decisions, dreams, people. It's about learning and bravery and love. It's about knowing one's self, and what human soul is capable to achieve if we truly and honestly believe in something. </span></span></span><br />
<span data-reactid=".1.1.0.0.2.1.0.0.1"><span data-reactid=".1.1.0.0.2.1.0.0.1.4"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span data-reactid=".1.1.0.0.2.1.0.0.1"><span data-reactid=".1.1.0.0.2.1.0.0.1.4">I have very little time to blog these days because I'm too busy discovering my new city. But I'm extremely enjoying living offline, I guess it's not a bad thing after all. </span></span><span data-reactid=".1.1.0.0.2.1.0.0.1"><span data-reactid=".1.1.0.0.2.1.0.0.1.8">Looking forward to more of this adventure, and hopefully, be able to share more in this humble space. </span></span></span><br />
<span data-reactid=".1.1.0.0.2.1.0.0.1"><span data-reactid=".1.1.0.0.2.1.0.0.1.8"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span></span></span><br />
<span data-reactid=".1.1.0.0.2.1.0.0.1"><span data-reactid=".1.1.0.0.2.1.0.0.1.8"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Cheers, </span></span></span><br />
<span data-reactid=".1.1.0.0.2.1.0.0.1"><span data-reactid=".1.1.0.0.2.1.0.0.1.8"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">B</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span>Bernadette Villanuevahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10555874160460926665noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5409899714143426695.post-2345017534153470572015-08-24T15:35:00.002+08:002015-08-25T11:25:34.803+08:00TRAVEL LOVE: Cool Down Cameron <div class="blogaway-section">
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I made it a personal goal to travel around Malaysia as much as I can. Why not, it is after all my second home now, and what better way to immerse myself in its wonderful culture than to do what I love best. So much that when I saw the cinema Ad of Emirate's campaign 'Be There,' that celebrates curiosity, wanderlust, and the adventure that comes with travel, I immediately felt like a soldier on a mission.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My </span><a href="http://neurochiq.blogspot.com/2015/08/travel-love-penang-chronicles.html"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">recent solo trip to Penang</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> was nothing but wonderful. Georgetown is bustling with interesting architecture, unique art and awesome food fusions. There's so much things to see and do so I was on the go 90% of the time. On the other hand, Cameron Highlands offers a sanctuary of peace and down time. One of Malaysia's most extensive hill stations, Cameron Highlands is most noted for its cool weather, 18 degrees Celsius on average, but can drop to as low as 13 degrees at night and high reaches. It was discovered by British surveyor William Cameron in 1885. The British who flocked to the area, mainly to escape the crushing heat of Malaysia, soon realised the potential of Cameron Highlands' fertile soil to grow tea which was then considered a prized commodity. Malaysian-British entrepreneur J.A. Russel founded the BOH Tea Company 86 years ago, and it still remains to be the number one tea in Malaysia today. I hope you like history!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If Penang's a girl, she would be the adventurous go-getter who likes to entertain people with her own brand of art and music. Her polar opposite would be Cameron Highlands, the zen sister who's a little shy and introvert with a profound oneness with nature. She's nurturing but feels perfectly comfortable alone and in silence. A friend asked me which place did I like better as she's planning a trip for the long weekend, but I can't name one. To me, you have to meet them both. Penang will fire up your senses while Cameron Highlands will provide a sweet cool down. It boils down to what you need at the moment. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;"></span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Here's a list of Cool Down Must Dos in Cameron Highlands: </span></div>
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<b><b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1. Breathe Easy. Silence your Heart.</span></b></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I'm city girl by heart. I live in a building beside a mall and in front of a major highway. I'm used to the noise and pollution. But Cameron Highland's fresh air is a welcome treat for the lungs! Hearing birds chirping instead of tires screeching before bed is also a novelty that I absolutely loved. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Cameron Highlands is peppered with beautiful flower farms. You can literally just stop and smell the blooms. I visited the Cactus Valley in Brinchang town which, aside from cute and weird cactus plants, also housed a wide variety of colorful pretty flowers that you can purchase. If only we had a car, I would have purchased flower pots for our veranda.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>3. Eat Fresh</b> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">While Penang tops the list for the most popular food destinations in Malaysia, Cameron Highlands does not disappoint either. The night market in Brinchang is a haven for fresh and organic produce. From strawberries, honey, freshly cooked seafood and vegetable goreng (fried) to steaming Fish Laksa. Brinchang is also flooded with Steamboat restaurants. Steamboat is similar to Shabu-Shabu, where you boil and cook different goodies - from meat, noodles, tofu to veggies - in a base soup (herbal, Tom Yam, Chicken etc.) The only difference is that it's cooked in charcoal and not the usual electric pots. I'm not a fan but I get the appeal, and it's indeed a perfect choice for the cold weather! Usual Malaysian fares like Nasi Lemak, Char Kwey Teow and Nasi Kandar are also abundant. Plus, scones, pies and freshly brewed tea make the perfect 'Little England' experience in the heart of Asia. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Aside from strawberries and flowers, the rows and rows of green, crispy lettuce also caught my fancy. I was tempted to just pick and toss them in a salad bowl. Luckily, you can just order freshly made salad from the farm café. Pair it with a glass of strawberry lassi, and your afternoon is complete. Tourists usually bring home organic produce back to the city. It's fresh and really cheap (i.e. 3 HUGE packs of strawberries only cost RM 20 or Php 240!), you have nothing to lose. </span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">5. Meditate </span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Cameron Highlands offers plenty of opportunities to empty your mind. I chose a good spot in the BOH Tea Plantation TEAteria with a stunning view of the hills covered in tea shrubs. It's tricky since the place is popular and hardly empty, but it's a magnificent place to meditate on a good day. Otherwise, get a hotel with a veranda and a good view, and you have the perfect backdrop for your morning meditations. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Some useful tips to remember when you're traveling to Cameron Highlands:</span></div>
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<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Bus tickets sell fast especially on holidays. I suggest you buy online and just claim your boarding pass at the station. I booked via </span><a href="http://busonlineticket.com/"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">BusOnlineTicket.com</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> (nope, this is not a sponsored post) and went to the Pudu Raya/Pudu Sentral Bus Station 30 minutes before departure. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The nearest LRT station is Plaza Rakyat. Cost is RM 40 (Php 480) per way including insurance. Travel time is anywhere from 3.5 to 4 hours including a 10-minute restroom stop.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Buses stop at Tanah Rata. You can take a taxi to Brinchang for only RM 10 (Php 120). Buses are not reliable so better hop on the cab, or if you are up for it, hitch a ride with caution. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Taxis are regulated in Cameron Highlands. You can rent one for RM 25 (Php 300) per hour for a minimum of 3 hours. So plan your trip to maximize your money. I met a really nice taxi driver/tourist guide, PM me and I'll give you his mobile number. :) </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Most 2-3 star hotels do not have air conditioners. My friend K and I asked about it, the receptionist looked puzzled and thought we're crazy. When the sun set, we understood why. It was freezing! </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Jackets, leg warmers and closed shoes are recommended, depending on your tolerance. But no shorts and flip flops for sure!</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Places we visited, and you should too: <b>Big Red Strawberry Farm, Cactus Valley, BOH Tea Plantation at Sungei Palas, Brinchang Night Market. </b> </span></li>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><em>Hello from me and my adventure bud, K :)</em></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">On to the next adventure. Happy start of the week! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Much Love,</span></div>
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Dang</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br />Bernadette Villanuevahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10555874160460926665noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5409899714143426695.post-68093840879703958072015-08-10T16:55:00.003+08:002015-08-11T12:19:55.993+08:00What I Learned Today: Inspirations from TEDxKL <div style="padding: 5px; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><em>This year's TEDxKL theme</em></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><em></em></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I draw inspirations from a lot of things. Books, movies, websites, everyday conversations, the sky, my dog. Name it. I'm a firm believer of lifelong learning, that there's always something new and valuable to pick up even from the seemingly mundane things.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">One of my favorites is TED videos. The first time I discovered the TED App on iOS, I spent the whole day on the couch watching speeches and presentations from all kinds of people across the globe. The thing I like the most about it is that on top of known personalities, the TED stage has also been an avenue to showcase ordinary people with extraordinary contributions to the society. Be it in the field of technology, energy, business or simply fighting for causes such as gender equality, right to clean water or even child marriage. It has revolutionized the way we share and celebrate inspirations, and who to draw them from. Age, race or PhD requirement is unheard of. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Thankfully, my company sees great value in exposing employees with these kinds of events and agreed to sponsor me and my colleagues to attend the second TEDx in Kuala Lumpur. It's been a while since I've drawn so much inspirations in a day, it would be a shame to keep it to myself. As TED puts it, these are ideas worth spreading. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Here are my favorite takeaways; may you be as inspired as I am, today and always! </span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN-qL3f7RbrNrneYGal65vg8vZwX49KZrFWrEuN0R4DoOWyrTlS4G_niB828ERk2lLkrodkl3EHx5b-Tu2WKCqOaVRIFjEvA3dpbVInpxF1tMeIB6glzvORcPEOOjzo7RS0Edq9pyrH7pp/s1600/afdlin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN-qL3f7RbrNrneYGal65vg8vZwX49KZrFWrEuN0R4DoOWyrTlS4G_niB828ERk2lLkrodkl3EHx5b-Tu2WKCqOaVRIFjEvA3dpbVInpxF1tMeIB6glzvORcPEOOjzo7RS0Edq9pyrH7pp/s400/afdlin.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><em>Afdlin Shauki: actor, comedian, director and activist </em></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><em></em></span><a href="http://www.tedxkl.com/afdlin-shauki"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><em>http://www.tedxkl.com/afdlin-shauki</em></span></a></div>
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<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><em>"I'm excited to be wrong because it means I will learn something right." </em></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><em>"You don't lose anything by adding value to other people's lives." </em></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><em>"Visiting India, and other rural places while directing my films taught me that you can be happy without having a lot of stuff." </em></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><em>"If you want to live an extraordinary life, never accept the status quo. Think about the perceptions, and challenge them."</em> </span></li>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I love this guy, and not only because he's funny. Sure, he makes a living making people laugh. But starring and directing films in Tamil (India) and Thai when you only know Malay and English is no laughing matter. He came from a poor family who could only send him to school 50% of the time. He had to alternate schooling with his siblings. When everyone told him that he wasn't cut for the big screen, he challenged the perceptions of what actors should be, and proceeded to making and directing films that would eventually win awards internationally. More so, he put his fame and fortune to good use and set up his own foundation and started a mission to help the refugees of Syria in Jordan. Big guy with a bigger heart. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">He said a lot of good things, but I can relate best with his statements on "being wrong." Not really proud of it, but I'm an obsessive compulsive perfectionist, and I find it hard to stomach that being wrong is not a mortal sin, that it's actually alright. In fact, mistakes can lead to better outcomes, because it stretches people's limiting beliefs, or perceptions of such. The most successful people are not the ones who don't commit mistakes, but the ones most quick to recover. I want to belong to the latter. </span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><em>Irshad Mobarak: naturalist, conservationist, Mr. Awesome</em></span><br />
<a href="http://www.tedxkl.com/irshad-mobarak"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><em>http://www.tedxkl.com/irshad-mobarak</em></span></a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><em>"Be fast when it's needed, be strong when strength is required, but remember that the most adaptable always survives."</em> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Irshad spoke about nature's natural relationships (namely commensalism, mutualism and parasitism) and related it to human behaviors. The evolution of man, history, war, even genocide! He said Hitler wasn't a glitch of nature but a product of convoluted idea that the fittest (in this case, the superior race - blonde, blue-eyed Aryan) survives, or should survive. I've always been intrigued by the Nazi era and its ethos, and wondered how it was possible for human beings to be so corrupted and consumed by the ideas of superiority and playing god. I've read several books about concentration camps and such, and have watched documentaries, but it's my first time to hear its co-relevance with nature and evolution. I clapped so hard, my hands hurt!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Catch this guy in his <a href="http://www.junglewalla.com/">responsible wildlife tours in Langkawi</a>. I've heard it's a must!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Meanwhile, install the TED App or subscribe to the <a href="https://www.ted.com/">website </a>and get random inspirations daily. It's addicting, so consider yourself warned. Have a good week ahead!</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><em>Spot the Edelman logo. </em></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><em> The venue (Putra Stadium in Bukit Jalil) is 12 stations and 1 cab ride away from my place, hence the tired eyes, but it's all worth it! :)</em></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Much Love,</span></div>
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Dang</span></div>
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Bernadette Villanuevahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10555874160460926665noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5409899714143426695.post-21180633581126342102015-08-04T21:32:00.002+08:002015-08-04T22:34:02.612+08:00TRAVEL LOVE: Penang Chronicles<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">A lot of things can be said about Malaysia, but you have to agree with me that their food is simply awesome. Why not? Bring three ethnicities under one roof and you get one of the most diverse, most flavorful cuisines in the world. Malaysian cuisine's influence include Chinese, Indian and Malay. The complex combination of herbs and spices, the layers of flavors and the thousand and one ways of preparation will leave anyone wondering when the next meal is coming. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">I love eating, and I love talking about food. It is through these food chats that I learned about the foodie haven that is Penang. According to my colleagues, KL food are no match with what Penang has to offer. Mind you, I like KL food a lot. So if KL was able to win me over, then I thought Penang might be able to convince me to marry him. ;) I booked a weekend solo trip to test this theory, and boy was I happy! Penang food is indeed good. Damn good. But the fact is, food is just one of the things that Penang should be proud of. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">I stayed mostly in the state's capital, Georgetown. Armed with a map, a camera, and insider tips from my Air BNB hosts, I walked my way around the city and got a taste of authentic Penang food and their quirky, artsy streets. I just stayed for the weekend so I could only cover so much. I reserved the rest (mainly beach strolling in Batu Feringghi) for my next visit with my housemates and boyfriend. :)</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Lebuh Campbell, Georgetown, Penang</span></span></i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Here are some tips to hopefully help (entice) you to visit this artsy state: </span><br />
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<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Flight from Kuala Lumpur to Penang is less than an hour. Bus however, will take minimum of 5 hours. For short trips, I suggest flying to save time and energy. </span></li>
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<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Subscribe to Air Asia. They have endless seat sales to Penang. I got my return tickets for only RM 109 (Php 1,300). Bus is about RM 40/way (Php 480). The extra RM 20-30 is so worth it. </span></li>
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<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">From the airport, board bus number 401E for about RM 3 (Php 36) and alight at KOMTAR Shopping Center (where the bus terminal is). Prepare small bills as you need to pay exact amount and there's no change available. From KOMTAR, you can either walk (15-20 minutes), board the free shuttle that goes around Georgetown (CAT bus) or take taxi. I took the CAT bus which brought me to Penang street (Jalan Penang) and walked for 5 minutes to my hostel near the famous Love Lane (where you will find boutique cafes and small but interesting restaurants) </span></li>
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<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Weather is crazy hot in Penang. Hats and sunnies are musts. Wear light clothes and bring a towel. Don't forget to apply sunblock. It's the number one beauty essential! </span></li>
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<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Do your homework, do some research and ask the locals. You'll get the best food from the hawkers and hole-in-the-wall places and not from the fancy restos. Much cheaper too. </span></li>
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<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Penang is backpacker friendly. Georgetown is beaming with hostels - from the very basic (and dirt cheap) to fancy and unique. I booked <a href="https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/5398243">Dream Catcher Travelers Refuge via Air BNB</a>. I got the private room with AC for only RM 70 (Php 840). The location is superb, right smack in the middle of the happenings and interesting places in Georgetown, and my hosts Ranee and Naz are really wonderful. Friendly and helpful but not intrusive at all. The alleys can be a bit dodgy at night, so exercise caution </span></li>
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<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><b>Food that you shouldn't miss:</b> Asam Laksa, Char Kuey Teow, Cendol, Mee Prawn, Nasi Kandar </span></li>
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<i><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Penang Road Famous Laksa. Starts at 6.50 (Php 78) </span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Fish-based noodle soup that comes with shredded fish (sardine or mackerel or both) and vegetables such as cucumber, pineapple, onions, red chilies and lettuce. The gravy includes tamarind juice, more chillies and lemon grass. When served, the dish would be topped with a tablespoon of prawn paste.</span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Kuey Teow. Get it everywhere. It's the number one hawker food! Starts at RM 6.50 (Php 78) </span></i></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">"Stir-fried ricecake strips", the noodles are fried with pork lard, dark and light soy sauce, chili, de-shelled cockles, bean sprouts, Chinese chives and sometimes prawn and egg. This is my most favorite Malaysian dish by far. In KL or in Penang, I've had to stop myself from ordering this on a daily basis. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLGbAYCDGskeSfBzah4dASmYKUqWtjsZuRhToZVY-_A_y_aWwC8A34vKJ9qdZRzMZcd44TrZV1csbVli6Y4ODB_GoMZsF3xqy2HCcZWpfmFTS6BzInOBPzNf744wPtzSTAsPv5zeLmuJvM/s640/blogger-image--386493494.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLGbAYCDGskeSfBzah4dASmYKUqWtjsZuRhToZVY-_A_y_aWwC8A34vKJ9qdZRzMZcd44TrZV1csbVli6Y4ODB_GoMZsF3xqy2HCcZWpfmFTS6BzInOBPzNf744wPtzSTAsPv5zeLmuJvM/s640/blogger-image--386493494.jpg" /></a></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Penang Road Famous Laksa and Cendol at Lebuh Keng Kwee. Starts at RM 5.50 (Php 66)</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><i>Cendol</i> usually consists of the conspicuous green jelly noodles immersed in shaved ice mixed with coconut milk, <i>gula Melaka (</i>palm sugar), and kidney beans. Some stalls would enhance the dessert by adding in chunks of <i>pulut</i> (glutinous rice), sweet corn and nuts. A sweet treat on a especially scorching hot days. </span></div>
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<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><b>What to do in between eating: </b>Take a walking tour and find the best street arts for<b> </b>free. Visit the clan
houses and century old temples. There's also some interesting museums,
some free, while others charge minimal fees. Love pets? Visit
the Purrfect Cat Café and meet the naughty residents. My favorite is the
Scottish Fold Grey cat, Bear.</span></li>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzdKX7WZUL7tPC67I-3CSmpHMgCscQkAhJRe_vuVsQQ48NQ0OfcBB4zhsMR_E6rfjhnWXarjkQjqp452TfvNrnpd6GefAQH5SQYJf7OgTCGw1arqNBmpSWLjWnPjIbMpP_vbo0vdrCNfnA/s1600/image7.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzdKX7WZUL7tPC67I-3CSmpHMgCscQkAhJRe_vuVsQQ48NQ0OfcBB4zhsMR_E6rfjhnWXarjkQjqp452TfvNrnpd6GefAQH5SQYJf7OgTCGw1arqNBmpSWLjWnPjIbMpP_vbo0vdrCNfnA/s640/image7.JPG" width="478" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Indian Boatman</span></span></i></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZpl8rMMpOo2yQiBwAx4jOt2u2TdZIdcDstxsEW9jovIwiL1ukgRzxVAzgy0-Rtis1CYGMS9BcqP2n7aHKmXGtiQ6ZRA95Issw3sbAZycBU-r8_lDbnID6LYfItTtD7MuEjoLtqY0iTkQe/s640/blogger-image-191372755.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZpl8rMMpOo2yQiBwAx4jOt2u2TdZIdcDstxsEW9jovIwiL1ukgRzxVAzgy0-Rtis1CYGMS9BcqP2n7aHKmXGtiQ6ZRA95Issw3sbAZycBU-r8_lDbnID6LYfItTtD7MuEjoLtqY0iTkQe/s640/blogger-image-191372755.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Bruce Lee </span></span></i></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiv1oYKfWpkMHHuGk4prJEbvUE8gorh1hYroOCKNnDOy4E9PtQJT47RJ6evuTRO0RAUxJagsoaJeqeLIIJghChvgI0Nt8OtsWELzAKdV3psHCG42GwQ4hZIemTQBSd08LfZ7aYDrZxFuWl/s1600/image4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiv1oYKfWpkMHHuGk4prJEbvUE8gorh1hYroOCKNnDOy4E9PtQJT47RJ6evuTRO0RAUxJagsoaJeqeLIIJghChvgI0Nt8OtsWELzAKdV3psHCG42GwQ4hZIemTQBSd08LfZ7aYDrZxFuWl/s640/image4.JPG" width="478" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">St. George Church</span></span></i></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsc1nrHJ2vyw8Fa5ajS-ZYCJwHoGFPaVYjghSCqDfPdM1u9ArOlSaEWBT1G8ypd0NCWJPvE7zyL4vwJtUMXVmx0lIdR91ir9onCoO2ggpKICT2_DViCE-x-XujiZDv0gjOKBkGPLfSHqfB/s640/blogger-image-357161312.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsc1nrHJ2vyw8Fa5ajS-ZYCJwHoGFPaVYjghSCqDfPdM1u9ArOlSaEWBT1G8ypd0NCWJPvE7zyL4vwJtUMXVmx0lIdR91ir9onCoO2ggpKICT2_DViCE-x-XujiZDv0gjOKBkGPLfSHqfB/s640/blogger-image-357161312.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Camera Museum</span></span></i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd77Yzd2xgOBTpYGkyJgtIvNJ7RYPWxMFANEyewHsJEYbWKFmWuW5FpC_4fG-lWb1jaFHMqfUOuEEwicbY_0Dj-SuONF9Guc67I2WejS5ySgxlfO-Pj-eHxDsIah2Zj2UQLWyc0PrSvg6Q/s640/blogger-image--650452959.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd77Yzd2xgOBTpYGkyJgtIvNJ7RYPWxMFANEyewHsJEYbWKFmWuW5FpC_4fG-lWb1jaFHMqfUOuEEwicbY_0Dj-SuONF9Guc67I2WejS5ySgxlfO-Pj-eHxDsIah2Zj2UQLWyc0PrSvg6Q/s640/blogger-image--650452959.jpg" /></a></span><br />
<span class="irc_su" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> <span style="font-size: small;"><i><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion</span></i></span></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9aVwG_3IDN1muIWxAsb7CHbhEQGLngHMStUHYZrLJZJX1LucvdCGP29-fk4hDgdF6czE6fI5uynTuH_fdifwX_Gq9KJSfOoAgyLw4Uf1cWiEo33C7YxyNOPZsWfqZyDtmxPcswga6pdwY/s1600/FullSizeRender.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9aVwG_3IDN1muIWxAsb7CHbhEQGLngHMStUHYZrLJZJX1LucvdCGP29-fk4hDgdF6czE6fI5uynTuH_fdifwX_Gq9KJSfOoAgyLw4Uf1cWiEo33C7YxyNOPZsWfqZyDtmxPcswga6pdwY/s640/FullSizeRender.jpg" width="478" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Hello, naughty Bear!</i></span></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Have fun in Penang! I did. :)</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Much Love,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;">Dang </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
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Bernadette Villanuevahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10555874160460926665noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5409899714143426695.post-35051665297165917812015-08-02T10:00:00.000+08:002015-08-02T14:12:19.651+08:00GOOD READS: A Thousand Splendid Suns <br>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I have good news. I got my reading mojo back, or at least I'm getting there. We can think of all the excuses in the world - work, school, errands, digital distractions, with the latter being the biggest culprit, why we don't read as much. Today's generation has been so used to a connected world that curling up in bed with a big fat book is not as appealing as it used to be anymore. Our attention has shortened significantly and we expect stories in bite pieces. Personally, I do a lot of reading and writing at work, hence the fatigue. </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">But finishing a good novel brings me incredible feelings of joy (and sometimes grief, I get engrossed with the characters so much that I feel sad to be separated from them after finishing a book. Am I normal?), so I try to find time to read as much as I can. </span><br>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsM3CxqyBpojzT-5fzpWUCpMZ08DFOQXM_iGtsNxlCF_1qT6rIZeENMMXh4St6lUPNTxl41MCQs3632nCqGKn80ze1xhIN6WJZebuNMt-lzcMK-w40wjCcGrybDK2eQiPoYKNOcN3HCaS5/s1600/a-thousand-splendid-suns-co1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsM3CxqyBpojzT-5fzpWUCpMZ08DFOQXM_iGtsNxlCF_1qT6rIZeENMMXh4St6lUPNTxl41MCQs3632nCqGKn80ze1xhIN6WJZebuNMt-lzcMK-w40wjCcGrybDK2eQiPoYKNOcN3HCaS5/s640/a-thousand-splendid-suns-co1.jpg" width="398"></a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: small;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><em>“Of all the hardships a person had to face, none was more punishing than the simple act of waiting.”</em></span> </div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My friend P has told me about A Thousand Splendid Suns a while back so I downloaded the e-book, which I conveniently forget the past months. I chanced upon it during my recent flight to Manila. It's a heavy read, as much as it's powerful. It tells the story of two Afghan women whose lives were entwined by decades of war, loss and love. They developed a mother-daughter bond in the most unlikely situation, having to share the same fate and an abusive, detestable (and gross!) husband. A Thousand Splendid Suns, which chronicles thirty years of Afghan history, is a compelling story of the extent of a woman and a mother's love in the most unforgiving time. The story also gave me an opportunity to learn and appreciate the Afghan culture, which to be honest, I wouldn't have bothered to read about if not for this book. </span><br>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If you're a feminist, you'll probably cringe and cry twice as much. I can't count how many times I paused and thank the heavens that I was born in a different generation and well, place. </span><br>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Get your hankies ready and fall in love with the mind of Khaled Hosseini. I loved him so much, I finished his other book The Kite Runner in two days. It's even better IMO, so it totally deserves a separate post.</span><br>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">Happy reading! </span><br>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Much Love,</span><br>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Dang </span>Bernadette Villanuevahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10555874160460926665noreply@blogger.com0Kuala Lumpur, Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia3.139003 101.686854999999922.885326 101.36413149999993 3.3926800000000004 102.00957849999992tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5409899714143426695.post-47895591535661761022015-07-31T13:31:00.000+08:002015-07-31T13:31:04.808+08:00Project Healthy: An end to #Roadto125<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It's Friday and I'm ought to share something happy on my favorite day so allow me to gloat on my not-so-recent health success: I finally (over)achieved my target weight. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I'm not new with the weight loss saga. I think every girl would have to deal with body image at some point in their lives, albeit on many different levels. Some go to great lengths to lose weight, resorting to not only unhealthy but dangerous diets, pills, surgeries, what have you. Thankfully, I've never really detested not being a size zero. My mom was a size zero and despite her nagging, I actually liked being curvy. I was fine with my size. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">But summer days are cunning. I found myself wishing I could fit into the nicest swimsuits, which BTW keeps on getting smaller every season! So I tried every known diet on this planet with limited success until I finally realized that it's not diet that would help me. It's a conviction to feel better and live healthier. Not too fat nor too skinny. Just healthy. Comfortable in my own skin. Hence, I started my 'Road to 125' and 'Project Healthy'. I'm on my second year now, and I have no plans of looking back. </span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><em>Same dress in 2012 vs. 2014</em></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><em>Hitting lightest weight since college</em></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrBrSvjV5PyggfMf9H6nYn3Wyy_dfLHPA3cPbH91-LjlMG6amcBp_JtD17VItIHLdb00FKSn_AdDF3DGZtvAp0aTufubPLBDQrvB5U5mqMYGT1ux5q5Z0YBh9cfdUiO0XDcIafhVryONSd/s1600/2013_2015_Corp+Pic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrBrSvjV5PyggfMf9H6nYn3Wyy_dfLHPA3cPbH91-LjlMG6amcBp_JtD17VItIHLdb00FKSn_AdDF3DGZtvAp0aTufubPLBDQrvB5U5mqMYGT1ux5q5Z0YBh9cfdUiO0XDcIafhVryONSd/s640/2013_2015_Corp+Pic.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><em>Corporate photo 2013 vs. 2015</em></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Since I've been getting a lot of inquiries, I thought of sharing some practical tips. These are based purely from my personal experience, so please exercise caution.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong>1.</strong> <strong>Decide for yourself.</strong> It's tiring to hear and read about people and so-called experts telling you to eat this, not that. The more pressure I get, the less encouraged I become. So I stopped following a set guideline and took control of my journey. It takes a little research and close observations but the more you understand your body, the easier for you to get the hang of it. I became more selective on what to put in my mouth. More real, organic food. Less processed and junk food. It takes longer to prepare a pasta dish from scratch, but I get more satisfaction with less serving because it's customized to my taste. More water and less sugary drinks. When a crave for Coke, I buy the smallest portion (in can) and take small sips and drink more water afterwards. More walking, less driving. I take the stairs, not the lift. It's no science, just a lot of common sense. Consistency is also key. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong>2.</strong> <strong>Learn to compromise.</strong> If I had a big lunch, dinner will be small and simple. I stick to my usual, home cooking on weekdays as much as possible. I treat myself to fancier meals during weekends mindful that I'm eating good food in small, just enough portions. Cheat days are meant for eating what you like, not eating all you can. If you're a coffee junkie like me, choosing between coffee and cake/doughnut will help lessen your sugar intake. Either I get a cup of coffee or a lovely dessert which I wash down with warm water. I also steered clear of instant coffee. Freshly brewed coffee/tea with a bit of milk and sugar (no sugar if you can) is much better and more satisfying! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong>3.</strong> <strong>Don't deprive yourself.</strong> Again, crash diets will get back at you big time. I learned this the hard way. Plus, when you feel deprived, you get depressed; then it's very easy to slip back into old, unhealthy eating habits hoping it would make you feel better. I'm selective with what I eat, but I make sure I eat healthy food that I actually like. Experiment and tease your taste buds. You'll be surprised on how much healthy food you actually enjoy. Case in point: I love ice cream, but I discovered that freezing lassi with roasted almonds makes a yummy, more healthy alternative. If you love rice like most Filipinos, convert to brown and red rice which are more filling and have better nutritional value. Make sure to soak them in water an hour before cooking for better texture. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong>4. Take baby steps.</strong> Losing 20 pounds in 2 months is unrealistic. Plus, losing weight too fast will leave you weak and looking sick. Make gradual changes. Putting too much pressure on yourself won't help. Set a realistic goal and regularly track your progress. In my case, I made a pact with my former colleagues. We posted a weight track sheet that we update every so often. It made things more exciting and fun! (Hello, NaiNai and Jelleh) Lastly, instead of forcing myself to go to the gym four to five times a week (to me, it's punishment), I looked for workouts that I actually enjoy like yoga, running and badminton. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong>5.</strong> <strong>Be appreciative.</strong> Give credit where credit is due. Thank yourself when you make progress. Gratitude comes in all forms - telling a friend, getting a big gelato, taking a selfie, buying a new dress. Whatever rocks your boat. Personally, I like my massages. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I hope this helps a bit. Just remember that life is not all about your waistline. What's inside matters a lot more. So don't forget to also invest on learning new things and improving or mastering your craft. I'm an advocate of lifelong learning. Everyday is the best day to learn something and one is never too old to try new things. Most importantly, be a kind and loving person. No one wants a 36-24-36 doll without a heart. ;)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Much Love,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Dang </span>Bernadette Villanuevahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10555874160460926665noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5409899714143426695.post-25393127178081625922015-07-28T18:06:00.000+08:002015-07-30T11:05:02.542+08:00#KLChronicles (Part 2) <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I will make no excuses for being MIA for the past err, months. Sure, work has been demanding, and living alone, as it turns out, means more work. ;) But I regret nothing. As much as I did most decisions on my own since I started working, it was still very different when I finally decided to leave home become 100% independent. The opportunity came eight months ago when I packed my bags and thought it would be fun to be lost and to find myself again in a new place which happened to be KL. Here I am halfway through 2014, still finding my way, but almost there!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I'd like to think of KL as my YinYang. It's been both good and nasty. There are days when I hated myself for leaving everything I love, days when no amount of cooking or Skyping or spending could make me feel less empty. I spent my saddest birthday to date because not only was I alone, I also lost someone very dear to me. <a href="http://neurochiq.blogspot.hk/2014/12/christmas-2014-joy-is-everywhere.html">Solo Christmas was okay, but nowhere near Paskong Pinoy.</a> There are brighter days, of course. A lot of them actually. I've grown professionally, made new friends, met interesting people, learned about different cultures, tried local flavors. So much has happened in the past eight months that I honestly feel like I'm not the same person anymore. I've gained so much in terms of appreciating what really matters in this life. Being in a foreign country also made me more patient, more inclusive, more appreciative, and come to think of it, a little more kind. It's not bad after all. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Living solo also meant depending on no one but yourself. I had to cook, clean the house, do the laundry, assemble the chairs, change the bulbs, figure out the gas cylinder, wait for deliveries, scrub the toilet, everything! I remember having to carry a dozen grocery bags plus a basin and a hamper because I thought I was Superman. I ached all over for days. </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It's not easy at all, but me thinks that's why it's also much rewarding. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">The honeymoon phase had long passed, but it only led me to take this journey even further. The minute I felt comfortable around KL, I started doing what I've always loved the most. I traveled. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">I'll tell you more about it on my next posts. It won't take months. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">Much Love, <br />Dang </span>Bernadette Villanuevahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10555874160460926665noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5409899714143426695.post-67353287409287332582015-03-31T15:36:00.001+08:002015-03-31T15:36:36.072+08:00First 120 days of my #KLChronicles (Part 1)<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I think life is cheating on me. The last time I checked, I was clumsily dragging my 40-kilo <strike>luggage</strike> life through the steps of the Northpoint Residence lobby. It's where my employer billeted me for my first 30 days in Kuala Lumpur. That, ladies and gents, was four months ago. Whatever happened to my first 120 days? In my line of work, we have this jargon "first 100 days", meaning all the preps you will do for a new client - development of communications strategy, content, stakeholder mapping, spokesperson training etc.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I can't help but question what I have achieved during my first 100 days in KL? To be honest, a whole lot. Life has a way of spinning your head so fast that keeping a journal is the only effective way to make sure you record life's moments before the next big wave hits you.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><i>My present concrete jungle</i></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>December 2014: Of Swift Introductions </b></span><br />
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<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I survived my first Christmas away from home and family. It was different, very quiet but extremely liberating. Was it fun? Not really. Was it so bad? Not as much as I expected. Did I regret it? No. It's one for the books. Something I think I should experience at least once in this lifetime.<a href="http://neurochiq.blogspot.com/2014/12/christmas-2014-joy-is-everywhere.html"> It taught me a few things I wouldn't learn any other way</a>. </span></li>
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<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It's my first time to live in a building, walk to work and eat <em>tapau </em>(takeaway) food for 30 days. I appreciate the convenience of living in a condo, but I miss the warmth and space of a real house. I also didn't realize how exhausted I was from all the commute to and from work back in Manila (not to mention the time you'll never get back) until I experienced living 10 minutes away from work. And eating <em>tapau </em>for 30 days? Never again. It was only fun for the first two weeks, and the bulges remain much longer than that.</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>January 2015: The Honeymoon Period</b></span><br />
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<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My friend and housemate, J moved into our permanent place. Still in a building, but triple the space and looks a lot more like a real house than a decorated shoe box. Our old, humble condo sits right in the middle of two train stations - KTM Commuter and LRT. Whatever it lacks in beauty and facilities, it makes up with its great location. It's four stations away from my office (total of 20 minutes relaxed commute), three stations away from the Central Station which connects us to the rest of the train lines going to the city (KLCC), airport, Putrajaya etc. Still a long way and a few thousand bucks to go to turn it into a cozy, modern looking house, but at least we've started with the basics.</span></li>
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<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Honeymoon stage with weekly trips to the mall to buy home ware. I fully embraced the #TitasofKL vibes! I found a church I like. I discovered the joys of endless bedding and curtain sale in Sogo (in Bandaraya, one station away!), the fresh organic produce from Sam's Groceria at Nu Sentral and even braved the wet market in Chow Kit where<em> sotong</em> (squid) sells for only RM10/kilo. Such a steal. Then you have the ever reliable AEon. They have everything from groceries to appliance, toys and what have you. They have 5% discount for all members every 28th of the month. Everything seems cheaper here. AEon will give SM a run for its money.</span></li>
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<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I also started getting busy at work with a few but nerve wracking pitch presentations and a thousand and one thing to learn about Malaysia, Edelman and CorpComm. Being in a new company, in a new country with a very different market, it's not very easy to build and find my way again. While I have extensive media contacts in the Philippines, here I'm literally starting from scratch. I started reading like a mad woman. I backtracked news and happenings in the last few months so I can bring something to the table and become a better consultant. I constantly asked questions no matter how stupid I felt sometimes. It's the only way to learn. Ask, get your hands dirty and just do it. </span></li>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNceJeJ15jb7X21yNO24Xv9q2lcKpUfemlesFdATmq0fPDWokouJAQShe3_gulU-r3uPH2RuLVspqvgStK7LvQSv8x6QnAPk47Ns__gguHwCAzTEXdD1kT0RBtJhNdzY6aPvA9fSNmNbxg/s1600/10.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNceJeJ15jb7X21yNO24Xv9q2lcKpUfemlesFdATmq0fPDWokouJAQShe3_gulU-r3uPH2RuLVspqvgStK7LvQSv8x6QnAPk47Ns__gguHwCAzTEXdD1kT0RBtJhNdzY6aPvA9fSNmNbxg/s1600/10.JPG" height="400" width="387" /></span></a></div>
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<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Last but very importantly, I learned that it's painfully expensive to move to a new place. You put deposits on everything - house, gas cylinder, mobile line, even condo pass. The usual comforts of home are all gone and I have to buy every single thing I need. Detergent, pillow case, knife, dust bin and toilet paper included.</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Watch out for the second part of this post when the honeymoon period had passed and things REALLY started to get more exciting. Stay tuned! ;)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Much Love, </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Dang </span><br />
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Bernadette Villanuevahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10555874160460926665noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5409899714143426695.post-16104006391862846212015-03-24T11:52:00.001+08:002015-03-24T12:12:16.792+08:0027 Things You CAN do before you settle down <ol class="_3rbf clearfix" data-pnref="story" data-referrer="pagelet_timeline_recent_ocm" id="u_jsonp_8_h_left"><div class="_5pcb _4b0l">
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">While my timeline is exploding with sparkling rocks, grand weddings and adorable babies (don't get me wrong, happy observer here), here's 27 things you CAN (not need, really) do before you settle down. I like it that it's not over the top, makes-you-feel-bad-about-your-boring-life kind of to do list. Plus, it rings true for both ladies and gents. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I've done most but I'm still figuring out the living alone and living somewhere else part now that I'm presently on an adventure in KL, so wish me luck! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1. Travel with your BFFs - check, and I'm looking forward to more!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2. Learn to cook - I'm a kitchen geek by genes, thanks mom! I can bake you sweet dreams, too. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">3. Be financially independent - check </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">4. Face one of your biggest fears - check </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">5. Live alone - On my 4th month now </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">6. Accomplish a goal - I think a house for my mom counts? :)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">7. Find your drink of choice - whiskey/vodka, no beer please</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">8. Make the first move - check </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">9. Challenge yourself - all the freakin' time </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">10. Take a roadtrip - check </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">11. Try a nice restaurant by yourself - not very posh places, but dined alone a lot of times and it's not bad! :) </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">12. Live somewhere else - 4th month of my #DangKLChronicles :)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">13. Learn to drive manual - I've always driven manual, I think it's hot! :D</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">14. Find a new show and watch it all in one weekend - Yes, and I was on sick leave the following Monday. Good times. ;) </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">15. Get fit - I'm at my fittest now, thankfully. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">16. Build something with your hands - I always do, I like working with them. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">17. Stay up until sunrise - I can't count how many times this has happened, good and bad days of course. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">18. See your favorite artist live - Not my most favorite, but still on my top 10, so check!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">19. Make a list of books you want to read, and read them all - I have a list, but still working on getting (books are expensive!) and reading them all. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">20. Learn to fight - I learned this early in my life, literally and figuratively. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">21. Volunteer - check. I actually miss doing Coral Watch in the Philippines. :(</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">22. Find a new hobby - I always do, I hate idle time. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">23. Apply for your dream job - check </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">24. Keep a journal - online counts, right? </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">25. Have a long conversation with a stranger - check </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">26. Do something crazy and spontaneous - Woke up one day, texted a friend and got inked.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">27. Get to know yourself - It's a never ending discovery, I love it. :) </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Care to share yours? Thanks to <a href="http://www.buzzfeed.com/">Buzzfeed </a>for some of the most amazing finds online! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Much Love, </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Dang </span>Bernadette Villanuevahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10555874160460926665noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5409899714143426695.post-15794021281376549782015-01-28T18:06:00.001+08:002015-01-28T18:26:40.090+08:00What I Learned Today: Self Gratitude<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.instructables.com/id/Live-Loved-Locket-Box/">VIA</a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I'm typing in haste to log a powerful conversation with my closest girlfriends. We are miles apart but I feel closer to them more than ever. Distance really makes people closer, I love the irony.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">One of the girls got a recognition from her Uni in the Philippines for her achievement in economics and banking (she's based in Melbourne), and finally received the blessing of her soon-to-be mom-in-law. She struggled with the relationship for years, and to be honest, I would have bailed out of the relationship if it was me. But not her, she remained good and understanding, accepted criticisms, no matter how hurtful, with forgiveness and in silence. She retaliated not with anger but goodness, all the time, every single day, until they finally reached the gates of reconciliation. Love works! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Another friend shared a budding romance, which she described in a way so unlike her previous relationships. She's excited yet composed, and in the context of how God wants her to love and be loved. At last, she's realized what I've been telling her endlessly over wine dates and sleepovers, that she deserved SO MUCH MORE. And her "so much more" is finally here. To say that I'm happy for her is an understatement. I should send a thank you note to heaven!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Then there's another friend who just came back from a trip to the mountains of <em>Sagada</em>, where she spent most days doing what locals do, opening her eyes to majestic greens you'll only see in the Philippines and drinking local brew on the porch of a cozy cabin. I guess the time did her good...and bad. She shared how she thought about her worries and fears that she's running late in the race of life. How her mom had three kids before turning 30, and there she was, in a loving relationship but no plans of marriage, kids, whatsoever. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Of course I had to speak up. I always do! I told them how I can perfectly relate to the dreadful moments when you start to question a lot of things in your life. Am I where I'm supposed to be? Did I make the right decisions? Am I financially free? Why did I choose this over that? Why am I so stubborn? Going against the tide puts me in trouble. Am I capable of having a family, more so, raising kids? I don't even have plans of getting married anytime soon! Am I eating enough veggies? Am I prepared to die?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It all sounded too familiar and the nurturer in me kicked in. I told my friends how proud I am of all their individual achievements, that I think they are doing amazing in their lives. I assured them that beyond my strong facade, I slip into emotional coma too, and we shouldn't be ashamed to admit it. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I remembered an ex-colleague whom I envied professionally. She told me how proud she is of my so-called bravery in taking risks, stretching my capabilities and embarking on challenging journeys. How she's not too sure if she can be as brave, as risky and as unconventional. Then it dawned on me, we are so unforgiving, so unappreciative when it comes to one person - our self! We fail to recognize the goodness that other people see in us. We don't collect our blessings, we only count the mishaps. We always compare and measure ourselves against the lives of others. We think lowly of our achievements, we feel undeserving. This has to stop</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">. For once, we have to learn to thank ourselves. To take pride in what we have achieved so far, big or small. Acknowledge praises. Celebrate victories. Let go! Let's forgive our shortcomings, and let it change us for the better. </span><br />
<br />Bernadette Villanuevahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10555874160460926665noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5409899714143426695.post-24351496129962878502014-12-25T18:50:00.000+08:002015-01-22T09:50:38.033+08:00Christmas 2014: Joy is everywhere!<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It's my first Christmas away from home or any family member, but I'm surprisingly calm and okay about it. Not that I'm jumping for joy, but I've expected a good amount of tears and inevitable sadness which never came. Another senseless worry that never happened. Maybe it helped that I started thinking about spending this day alone the moment I said yes to this adventure. But this has to mean something more. Perhaps it's because I've come to a point where I know what I believe in and what I'm here for. That being in a foreign land, alone in time for the biggest and most important occasion in any Filipino family, is not an accident. It's too early to tell what living on my own will do to me, but I'm very keen to know.</span> </span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">However, spending Christmas alone for the first time (and the last time I hope) sure has its perks. For one, I don't have to worry about holiday weight. Haha. Filipino cooking, especially during Christmas, is totally fantastic, you have zero chance against food. All the lechon, menudo, hamonado and embotido won't go easily on the treadmill. And we haven't even talked about the desserts. But seriously, spending Christmas alone taught me a lot of things which will stay with me for a long time.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">1. </span><strong style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">It's okay to ask for help.</strong><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"> You are miles away from home, and something will always come up no matter how hard you try to set things in advance. In case of emergencies, don't hesitate to dial a friend. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">2. </span><strong style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Communication, not talking, is key.</strong><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"> A nice conversation over Viber or Skype can mean much more than mindlessly talking about everything, every single time.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">3. I would never rejoice over the misery of other people. But it's sad to admit that you will always find someone in a worse situation. It shouldn't make you feel better, but it should make you feel grateful. And you have to act on it.</span><strong style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"> Be more patient, be extra kind to people, you have no clue what they are going through.</strong><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"> </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">4. </span><strong style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Christmas is always a good time to make new friends!</strong><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"> I miss giving gifts so much, that I decided to buy something for my neighbor I hardly see. You should see the look on her face when she saw me standing before her door with a bag of cookies. Priceless. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">5. </span><strong style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Joy comes from everywhere.</strong><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"> Yes, everywhere! From joining the open house Noche Buena prepared by the parish, to drinking a cup of tea from Bangladesh, to talking about marriage, patriotism and freedom from traditions with a new friend to getting a random hug from the nice old lady who reminds me so much of my beloved lola. Joy finds you if you open your heart to it. :) </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">6. </span><strong style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">God will always have the best plan. Ever</strong><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">. I have nothing fancy for today, but the Big Man has other plans. I got a spontaneous lunch visit from friends who's on transit from Singapore. I never had the chance to meet them in the Philippines before I left so it's nice to have a mini reunion after so many years. And right before I finish this post, remember the nice old lady who hugged me just this morning? She came back with a huge present. How amazing is that! You really see God's face through people. :) </span></span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><em><span style="font-size: small;">Thanks Jeck and Mitch for making my Christmas super funny! Proud of your success. Love you both! :)</span></em></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><em><span style="font-size: small;">I will call her Annie</span></em></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">I'm not home for Christmas. But I have friends and family, far by proximity, but always in touch, always caring and always reminding me that there's really no reason to cry and feel </span><em style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">kawawa.</em><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"> I have new friends and gained inspiring experiences. Christmas, just like love, transcends time, ethnicity and geography. Most of all, this is the season to be joyful because it reminds us of the higher Being who's so fond of us despite our imperfections. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Merry Meaningful Christmas, everyone! Thanks for another year of sharing journeys through this humble blog. I hope you get the blessings you totally deserve! :)</span><br />
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Much Love,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Dang</span><br />
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Bernadette Villanuevahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10555874160460926665noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5409899714143426695.post-56053949433920835802014-11-20T14:04:00.001+08:002015-03-31T15:41:08.992+08:00Food Review: The famous Digman Halo-Halo<div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If you're from the South, I'm sure you've heard of Digman, a humble baranggay in Bacoor Cavite made famous by Halo-Halo. Halo-Halo means "mix-mix" because you literally have to mix a dozen of different ingredients with milk and shaved ice topped with leche flan, ube halaya and ice cream. When I was young, my family often troops to Digman when we crave for indulgent desserts and Pinoy merienda. So visiting Digman again takes me back to my happy childhood. It's sweet nostalgia! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">There are several stores in Digman but I've only been to the two more famous refreshment parlors, which incidentally, also claims to be the original. The Original Digman Halo-Halo and Home Made Siopao (which boasts of a patent ha!) and the Talk of Town Original Famous Digman Halo-Halo Special. Don't expect too mucn from these places though, because they are simple old houses turned to stores and still have that laid back, canteen feel. I guess that's part of the novelty. I <span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">revisited Digman recently and here's hoping you'll either walk down the memory lane with me, or, discover something new. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The Original Digman Halo-Halo and Home Made Siopao offers Pinoy merienda like pansit, sweet spaghetti, home made siopao and of course, Halo-Halo and its cousin, Mais con Yelo. A regular Halo-Halo is only Php 55, pansit and spaghetti is Php 40 and their home made siopao is only Php 22. A hundred bucks will go a long way! The owner also welcomes the visitors and makes friendly chit chats.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRKKDg_ll-4UlAeNpdWiQJPzDSkDsRVXUxS-Jyo-z6QL6JJfVyf5On2-RHk081bhDHZ_ekfvXQO2qIuEnYgiy2dFCiRyOXV9u3fwX_zJJZ_sMQ3-wmAl-NiFmNy2jN1NABDpZq40ww4KdJ/s640/blogger-image-1850180610.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRKKDg_ll-4UlAeNpdWiQJPzDSkDsRVXUxS-Jyo-z6QL6JJfVyf5On2-RHk081bhDHZ_ekfvXQO2qIuEnYgiy2dFCiRyOXV9u3fwX_zJJZ_sMQ3-wmAl-NiFmNy2jN1NABDpZq40ww4KdJ/s640/blogger-image-1850180610.jpg" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Like a true warrior, I went ahead and also tried the contender. The Talk of Town Original Famous Digman Halo-Halo Special (that's a mouthful!) is just across the street. They offer similar menu of Pinoy merienda but their Halo-Halo is a little cheaper at Php 45. It's also interesting to see framed news clippings and photos of their celebrity visitors including politicians. Don't forget to order their Pork BBQ which they consign from the vendor beside their store. It's tender and very tasty! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I personally favor the Original Digman Halo-Halo and Home Made Siopao based on the taste of their lead star, the Halo-Halo. It's sweet but not sickening, ingredients are tasty and well-cooked and they use Alpine, which IMO is the best milk for Halo-Halo. I think they stick to their original recipe through the years. On the other hand, the Talk of Town Digman Original Halo-Halo remains to be a tough competition. Their Halo-Halo tastes okay, but I didn't particularly like two things - too much and artificial vanilla taste and cheaper, sweeter evaporated creamer. Yup, I can recognize the taste. Milk makes a lot of difference. But don't just take my word for it. Go try both and tell me what you like better. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So if you plan to visit Digman anytime soon, here are some practical tips: </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1. Baranggay Digman is located very near the Bacoor Town Plaza and church. It's along Rubio and Gawaran Streets, you won't miss it. Go and check google map. :) </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2. To be sure, order bottled water, or bring your own. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">3. It's a very casual place where barkadas, students and families eat. Dress casually. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">4. Be adventurous with food. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Enjoy your food trip! :)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Much Love, </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Dang</span></div>
Bernadette Villanuevahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10555874160460926665noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5409899714143426695.post-74360405237918833462014-11-16T22:47:00.004+08:002014-11-17T02:36:30.943+08:00Grown Ups<div><br></div>If you're looking for me on a Saturday night five years ago, you're likely to find me in a bar with some friends on the dance floor or singing along a cute rock band. I was not exactly a full blown party girl, but I've had my share of the crazies and pains of early twenties. Those were the days when responsibilities were less, time was plenty and I started to earn good money too. I had the energy of a bull and an exaggerated sense of YOLO, which I later realized, was not a good combination. I repeatedly got wasted on tequila and cheap bottles of brandy, and I didn't have to wait for the weekend to get my fix. I was young. Everyday was a weekend. I was fine with daily four-hour sleep that my colleagues nor my boyfriend (sorry, Sweetie! ;p) had no clue of the wreck the night before. <div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Thankfully, I came out of the quarter life warzone scarred but alive! When I hit 26, the changes were just undeniable. I partied less, I got tired of wearing the once mandatory heels, I was sleepy by midnight and the loud music that used to pump me up started to sound like noise. It's annoying. Then the unthinkable...I lost all interest on alcohol, which to me, was the final straw. I honestly tried to fight it, especially that I retired from the game way earlier than my friends. I vividly remember a night out to celebrate a friend's birthday in a now defunct posh bar. I tried to trick my emotions into wanting it, so I put on my favorite party dress and ankle boots and arrived fashionably late. We had access to the VIP area and alcohol was pouring wildly. Half an hour into the party and I felt like I'm gonna be sick. I excused myself and spent the rest of the night drinking iced coffee in the cafe next door. That night, I bid my youth goodbye. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Nowadays, look for me on a Saturday and your best bets would be (a) my room, (b) the kitchen or (c) in a laid back resto bar where the decibels are regulated. Haha. Last Saturday, I had a bottle of sweet flavored beer while swaying to a really old (like lolo-old) band playing Eric Clapton and Rod Stewart. All the while feeling amused hearing my dear friend P, who just hit 27 and by all means more of a party girl than I ever was, tell me about how she's started to dislike, even dread partying. She ordered a flavored beer too, when I was so sure she's going to ask for a double black. Ha! Welcome to the club, my dear. I assure you, it's not so bad. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">I'm inching into the last year of my twenties, and I feel super. I'm confident that I now make better choices and since nursing a hangover is already out of the picture, I have plenty of time to do and discover more productive things than ever before. Like possibly growing my own herb garden. Or enrolling in a formal culinary class. Name it. I'm a grown up, and I wouldn't have it any other way. :) </span></div><div><div class="separator" style="text-align: start; clear: both;"><br></div>
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<br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">With my dearest friend, Pipi, after hours of talking about life, career overseas and love over tea lattes. How appropriate. ;)</div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br></div>Bernadette Villanuevahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10555874160460926665noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5409899714143426695.post-28111750871066527052014-11-02T16:15:00.002+08:002014-11-03T22:39:57.355+08:00What I Learned Today: On Vacation<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Eight long years after graduation and I finally got what I wanted - a real break from work. Ever since I joined the workforce, the longest vacation I've had was a 9-day break which included 5 workdays sandwiched between two weekends. Spent wandering around Singapore and Malaysia, the trip was really tiring as much as it's fun. There's also the (not so) occasional call from work and the constant beeping of my BB. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">When <a href="http://neurochiq.blogspot.com/2014/08/all-in-perfect-timing.html"><b>I decided to take up a new challenge in my career</b></a>, which entails moving to a foreign country, I asked God for a favor to give me at least two weeks to rest, pack and spend time with my friends and family. But the heavens had other plans! I'm on my fifth week now, in between jobs, and quite honestly, getting a little restless. Call it withdrawal symptoms, but my body and mind longs for the demands of my job and its hefty dose of stress. I don't like being idle, but I force myself to look the other way. This <span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">is the break I've hoped for in a long time. More than deserving one, I needed one! Besides, I think this is also the heaven's way of telling me that it's okay to slow down a bit, and more importantly, to spend real, quality time with my loved ones. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">In the tradition of my <a href="http://neurochiq.blogspot.com/search/label/What%20I%20Learned%20Today"><b>What I Learned Today series</b></a>, let me share a few thoughts I've had while sipping matcha tea from the neighborhood cafe, reading e-books, or while doing the grocery list. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>1</b>. <b>Stay-at-home parents have one of the toughest jobs on Earth! </b>My mom is a kitchen diva, she's a natural. She cooks really well, but it's not her favorite house chore. I always frown at her when she complains how difficult it is to plan everyday meals. I mean how can that be so difficult? I never understood that until now. My mom is out of the country until December, and since I'm on vacation, I took over the kitchen duties. Two weeks into the job and I've already exhausted the list of "do's" and "da's" (adobo, menudo, afritada etc.). I wonder how my mom managed for <span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">the last 35 years! We haven't even started with the laundry, bathroom; then comes the kids, school work, social duties. Parents, moms especially, I suspect, are super humans.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>2. A day is just a day.</b> Sunrise and sunset, meals three times a day, and 24 hours essentially make up a day. It's going to be the same tomorrow unless you do something about it. You can sleep all day, watch TV 'til your eyes hurt or drown with too much social media; or you can go out and see the world. Spend time with positive people, visit your dearest lola, run that extra mile, try new things. You can never have too much to learn, and your supposedly idle <span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">days can be more fulfilling. </span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCB29ABtuw1d3wyzF_sQ4xUj236umZM9JZaBeZEtd1jOUomIO1U8zTP7fkCNNRKFYrNCWL8AEHVVYfFLJTOA2Dwrx5AZ1e18lSGjdzoEi1lpyPqIF0fFDLrJRCJtY7KIzLFMv3zI6JTzEH/s1600/bowling.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCB29ABtuw1d3wyzF_sQ4xUj236umZM9JZaBeZEtd1jOUomIO1U8zTP7fkCNNRKFYrNCWL8AEHVVYfFLJTOA2Dwrx5AZ1e18lSGjdzoEi1lpyPqIF0fFDLrJRCJtY7KIzLFMv3zI6JTzEH/s1600/bowling.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Rekindling my love for bowling. I used to do this every weekend with my dad. :)</span></i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>3. You'll be thankful you saved for rainy days.</b> As much as I tried to be ready for this transition, I didn't expect my break will stretch for too long. Despite the setbacks the past months, I'm grateful to have saved enough to get me through. I still wish I saved more. The bills never stop, you know. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>4. Budgeting could mean everything.</b> While I'm used to managing my own money, and even developed a <a href="http://neurochiq.blogspot.com/2013/06/myroadtoriches-track-your-expenses.html">fairly geeky tool</a>, it's the first time I've tried my hand at budgeting for the whole household. In the last month, I've perfected my skills in scrutinizing the labels, ingredients, grams and price of every item in the shopping cart. I've discovered the best, off-peak time to do the errands to save time and gas, the perks and store discounts on certain days and how keeping a grocery list and bills tracker can save my sanity. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>5. Garbage in, garbage out.</b> Eating and living healthy is a constant battle I've had for the past years. Staying at home, which means eating at home more often, gave me the opportunity to examine everything I put in my mouth. I have a long way to go when it comes to ditching soda and controlling sweets, but I'm happy to be eating healthier, more balanced and more natural food lately. I tossed all artificial flavor enhancers down the drain, and that includes MSG and anything "magical", "instant" and labeled "<i>pampasarap</i>".</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI-fAN-gE4Cqy9UF23ZFfRxXVFre2GwFnLl6Otqq-WXb587eNZ9dQKIeP_mVzv9teN2RAOBKhp94JiA8vV6feX2zEAcap5oXlRt1Njv8Ejr2CTzUjntpDuSNg6S4DaowEWdIrOm3L2hwps/s1600/afritada.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI-fAN-gE4Cqy9UF23ZFfRxXVFre2GwFnLl6Otqq-WXb587eNZ9dQKIeP_mVzv9teN2RAOBKhp94JiA8vV6feX2zEAcap5oXlRt1Njv8Ejr2CTzUjntpDuSNg6S4DaowEWdIrOm3L2hwps/s1600/afritada.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I'm guessing I still have a few more weeks at home before I start my new adventure, hence, watch out for my next #LolaVibes and #DomesticDiva posts! :) </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Much Love, </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Dang</span></div>
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Bernadette Villanuevahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10555874160460926665noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5409899714143426695.post-15161209703554504802014-10-11T10:35:00.001+08:002014-10-11T10:40:41.801+08:00Todo por Amor<div>
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<div style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; margin: 0px;">I've been wanting a tattoo since forever but I waited for the right moment to have something so meaningful to me, I have to impress it on my skin. To everyone I love and care for, you know fighting for you is a serious business. Thank you for inspiring me. </div>
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Lots of love to my artist and friend, Erik Belbis. Your design is amazing, I hope I gave justice! Tattoo by Jonathan Sanchez of 55Tinta and DimpzInk. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmX8Ngoqf8L0hQYWi25g6Oa8VHRfFqy9YL8DAZ9KCkhcg2jqCtx2WWCMfJgr0Qz8Hpy4Og072jJ50T8p-nf4fPD47WHqtGXGDoJwS5HEMpdYF9Nb_edG8r780tWDa_3SeZQShPQP2seEYI/s640/blogger-image-1937544893.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmX8Ngoqf8L0hQYWi25g6Oa8VHRfFqy9YL8DAZ9KCkhcg2jqCtx2WWCMfJgr0Qz8Hpy4Og072jJ50T8p-nf4fPD47WHqtGXGDoJwS5HEMpdYF9Nb_edG8r780tWDa_3SeZQShPQP2seEYI/s640/blogger-image-1937544893.jpg" width="624"></a></div>
Bernadette Villanuevahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10555874160460926665noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5409899714143426695.post-56604649414730848642014-10-03T11:26:00.001+08:002014-10-03T11:42:27.959+08:00Smart Buys: BYS Blusher in Fierce Fuschia<div>
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I got my hands on the BYS Blusher a few weeks ago after I painfully dropped my blush compact in the mall. I rushed to the makeup section, and since it's an unplanned purchase, I opted for an affordable but decent option. It doesn't hurt that the lady in the BYS counter was also very helpful and well made-up. After a few swatches, I went home with the BYS Blusher in Fierce Fuschia. I've been using it on regular days (which includes normal office days, errands and weekend strolls) and here's how it fared on my super oily skin. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj33uT_FIECMBX0gw1Y0n3ama7O_XShobqzKP3NaZsVqn5ojj_4E5OE1QS6BZKh-t7-Y7l_klqKbMzkZnBBZdhCfhYY0DDz2QNicfep8Jo6JmdZoaTZJf1gZfFgQXwgtxpQaA8qayJ0eiTH/s640/blogger-image-1680612693.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj33uT_FIECMBX0gw1Y0n3ama7O_XShobqzKP3NaZsVqn5ojj_4E5OE1QS6BZKh-t7-Y7l_klqKbMzkZnBBZdhCfhYY0DDz2QNicfep8Jo6JmdZoaTZJf1gZfFgQXwgtxpQaA8qayJ0eiTH/s640/blogger-image-1680612693.jpg" width="640"></a></div>
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<li>Color payoff is good. I lightly swipe my Charm blush brush twice and it's enough to nicely color one cheek up to the temple. Just make sure to apply lightly to get an even tone. </li>
<li>Lasting power is average. I have super oily skin and on a humid day (which is normal in PH btw), I need to reapply twice to thrice a day. </li>
<li>It contains shimmers, so if you're into matte, this is not for you. If you are, then the shimmers are fine enough to just give you a glow. No shimmer shocks, don't worry. </li>
<li>I dropped it twice and it's still in tact. Hooray! </li>
<li>It's super affordable at only Php 249.00. My college self will totally agree. :) </li>
<li>No brush included. Make sure to have a good blush brush. Try Charm or Suesh. Blending makes a lot of difference especially with blushers. Remember, aim for natural, pinched look and avoid harsh lines. :) </li>
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Repurchase is a possibility but I'm far far away from hitting the pan so maybe trying out other shades from BYS is more likely. </div>
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Happy end of the week! </div>
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Much Love, </div>
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Dang</div>
Bernadette Villanuevahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10555874160460926665noreply@blogger.com0