tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-62165296953265897232024-02-19T10:29:15.147+08:00a tuff life - traveling opposite directionsAndyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05635088386914760574noreply@blogger.comBlogger97125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6216529695326589723.post-86854970415748800442013-12-10T22:00:00.000+08:002013-12-10T22:14:00.797+08:00Olà Espana!<div style="margin: 0; overflow: hidden; padding: 0; width: 500px;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/andy_dugay/11307545276/in/set-72157638545567773/" style="display: block; float: left; height: 75px; padding: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 75px;" title="Retiro Parque"><img alt="Retiro Parque" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7339/11307545276_2d48658806_s.jpg" style="border: none; height: 75px; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px;" /></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/andy_dugay/11307513185/in/set-72157638545567773/" style="display: block; float: left; height: 75px; padding: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 75px;" title="Retiro Parque"><img alt="Retiro Parque" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3709/11307513185_5146aa9938_s.jpg" style="border: none; height: 75px; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px;" /></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/andy_dugay/11307513835/in/set-72157638545567773/" style="display: block; float: left; height: 75px; padding: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 75px;" title="View from Analina Room"><img alt="View from Analina Room" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5489/11307513835_1a39836408_s.jpg" style="border: none; height: 75px; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px;" /></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/andy_dugay/11307464906/in/set-72157638545567773/" style="display: block; float: left; height: 75px; padding: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 75px;" title="with Bahar and Tim"><img alt="with Bahar and Tim" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5518/11307464906_03547f0ed1_s.jpg" style="border: none; height: 75px; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px;" /></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/andy_dugay/11307548443/in/set-72157638545567773/" style="display: block; float: left; height: 75px; padding: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 75px;" title="Plaza Mayor"><img alt="Plaza Mayor" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5540/11307548443_a0a9dffca8_s.jpg" style="border: none; height: 75px; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px;" /></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/andy_dugay/11307432655/in/set-72157638545567773/" style="display: block; float: left; height: 75px; padding: 0 0 10px 0; width: 75px;" title="Museo de Jamon"><img alt="Museo de Jamon" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5489/11307432655_6a1fe72054_s.jpg" style="border: none; height: 75px; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px;" /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/andy_dugay/11307500564/in/set-72157638545567773/" style="display: block; float: left; height: 75px; padding: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 75px;" title="Geppetto Shop"><img alt="Geppetto Shop" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3732/11307500564_ddb995112a_s.jpg" style="border: none; height: 75px; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px;" /></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/andy_dugay/11307433485/in/set-72157638545567773/" style="display: block; float: left; height: 75px; padding: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 75px;" title="Palacio Real"><img alt="Palacio Real" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7300/11307433485_906a565c94_s.jpg" style="border: none; height: 75px; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px;" /></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/andy_dugay/11307467536/in/set-72157638545567773/" style="display: block; float: left; height: 75px; padding: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 75px;" title="Madrid's alley"><img alt="Madrid's alley" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2888/11307467536_9852efaeb7_s.jpg" style="border: none; height: 75px; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px;" /></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/andy_dugay/11307467016/in/set-72157638545567773/" style="display: block; float: left; height: 75px; padding: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 75px;" title="Seafood Paella"><img alt="Seafood Paella" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7356/11307467016_f78ab19f7b_s.jpg" style="border: none; height: 75px; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px;" /></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/andy_dugay/11307550283/in/set-72157638545567773/" style="display: block; float: left; height: 75px; padding: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 75px;" title="Restaurant near Plaza Mayor"><img alt="Restaurant near Plaza Mayor" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3769/11307550283_2eaff1b515_s.jpg" style="border: none; height: 75px; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px;" /></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/andy_dugay/11307467926/in/set-72157638545567773/" style="display: block; float: left; height: 75px; padding: 0 0 10px 0; width: 75px;" title="Madrid"><img alt="Madrid" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3783/11307467926_c40dc8dc3d_s.jpg" style="border: none; height: 75px; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px;" /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/andy_dugay/11307551183/in/set-72157638545567773/" style="display: block; float: left; height: 75px; padding: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 75px;" title="Madrid"><img alt="Madrid" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7459/11307551183_70ec850c05_s.jpg" style="border: none; height: 75px; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px;" /></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/andy_dugay/11307468886/in/set-72157638545567773/" style="display: block; float: left; height: 75px; padding: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 75px;" title="Madrid"><img alt="Madrid" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2867/11307468886_c313b94e9c_s.jpg" style="border: none; height: 75px; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px;" /></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/andy_dugay/11307469396/in/set-72157638545567773/" style="display: block; float: left; height: 75px; padding: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 75px;" title="Madrid"><img alt="Madrid" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7310/11307469396_d16353aec7_s.jpg" style="border: none; height: 75px; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px;" /></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/andy_dugay/11307469926/in/set-72157638545567773/" style="display: block; float: left; height: 75px; padding: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 75px;" title="Madrid"><img alt="Madrid" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7410/11307469926_34256043d5_s.jpg" style="border: none; height: 75px; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px;" /></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/andy_dugay/11307437735/in/set-72157638545567773/" style="display: block; float: left; height: 75px; padding: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 75px;" title="Palacio Real"><img alt="Palacio Real" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7425/11307437735_bde6589a68_s.jpg" style="border: none; height: 75px; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px;" /></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/andy_dugay/11307470256/in/set-72157638545567773/" style="display: block; float: left; height: 75px; padding: 0 0 10px 0; width: 75px;" title="Madrid"><img alt="Madrid" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7299/11307470256_c708ca97a0_s.jpg" style="border: none; height: 75px; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px;" /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/andy_dugay/11307437825/in/set-72157638545567773/" style="display: block; float: left; height: 75px; padding: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 75px;" title="Plaza Mayor"><img alt="Plaza Mayor" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2808/11307437825_51c54265f0_s.jpg" style="border: none; height: 75px; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px;" /></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/andy_dugay/11307472326/in/set-72157638545567773/" style="display: block; float: left; height: 75px; padding: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 75px;" title="Madrid"><img alt="Madrid" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5545/11307472326_dc2279b6d9_s.jpg" style="border: none; height: 75px; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px;" /></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/andy_dugay/11307472876/in/set-72157638545567773/" style="display: block; float: left; height: 75px; padding: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 75px;" title="Madrid"><img alt="Madrid" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7383/11307472876_070e974a55_s.jpg" style="border: none; height: 75px; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px;" /></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/andy_dugay/11307439225/in/set-72157638545567773/" style="display: block; float: left; height: 75px; padding: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 75px;" title="Madrid's Bid for 2020 Olympics"><img alt="Madrid's Bid for 2020 Olympics" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5497/11307439225_21dff8152d_s.jpg" style="border: none; height: 75px; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px;" /></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/andy_dugay/11307555773/in/set-72157638545567773/" style="display: block; float: left; height: 75px; padding: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 75px;" title="Madrid"><img alt="Madrid" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7408/11307555773_fc76fc250f_s.jpg" style="border: none; height: 75px; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px;" /></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/andy_dugay/11307440575/in/set-72157638545567773/" style="display: block; float: left; height: 75px; padding: 0 0 10px 0; width: 75px;" title="Madrid"><img alt="Madrid" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7364/11307440575_8904cc619a_s.jpg" style="border: none; height: 75px; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px;" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/andy_dugay/sets/72157638545567773/">
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Spain is relatively more affordable than any other parts of
Western Europe. If you like long walks, you will surely love going around
especially in Madrid. It’s best to visit the city during autumn, the temperature
is cool at around 15 degrees Celsius during daytime so won’t get bothered with
striding under the sun.</div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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Fortunately, I was able to visit Madrid during the last leg
of my business trip. I must say that this is one of the nicest cities I have
visited. Madrid lived to my expectations. Despite of being modern, century-old
structures were preserved very well which makes the city lively day and
night.<o:p></o:p></div>
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One of the favorite places I have walked around is the Plaza
Mayor. At the entrance of the plaza, there is this huge foyer where a lot of
restaurants are scattered everywhere. Since rice was not served during my
previous trips, I devoured a plateful of authentic seafood paella!<o:p></o:p></div>
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Going back to the streets, I saw this very interesting shop
named “Geppetto” (named after the Pinocchio’s father). All the stuff that were
being sold are made of wood –wall clocks, chandeliers, and toys. Although the item are a bit pricey, the details of the carvings make it a good buy.</div>
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After some long walks, I went to Parque del Retiro as
suggested by my friends. With the lush of greens, I laid down at the grasses
with feeling awkward. There are a lot of people who read, jog and stride at the
park. The park has a huge lake where boats are available for rent. A picnic
would be nice if I just had some company.</div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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For the foodies, a must try is the Museo de Jamon. True to
its name, they offer a very wide variety of hams that you didn’t know it even
exist. You can have it served as a sandwich or as a tapas.<o:p></o:p></div>
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There are a lot of cheap accommodations in the city that can
match the budget of a backpacker. I stayed at Analina
Rooms and it cost me P1623.00. They offer a modest room with a lovely
balcony ala Romeo and Juliet-style. It is situated at the middle of the city so
all the city spots are just a walking distance.<o:p></o:p></div>
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If I will have a change again to visit the continent, I will
make sure to have a stopover in the city or explore the livelier Barcelona. Their
diverse culture makes it interesting as we derived most of ours from these
country. If you plan to go there, make sure prepare your Spanish vocabulary or
bring along a Spanish-English dictionary as I had a hard time dealing with this
barrier.</div>
</div>
Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05635088386914760574noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6216529695326589723.post-20263305992165478492013-01-01T12:34:00.002+08:002013-01-01T12:34:54.853+08:00A Look Back to 2012<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXn56S8owG8reNhKB3EvCshuIVGxCKiqTbfg4jb_1Ea3_vf1-bewBPLKFQvVy2DVlwLYfx2HzOOcljwUjjYU08xKdkatj3DyWWFbJ2gcsyn3Xp55we5EqybR5bQPxnRuV5vdbphsD5ToyC/s1600/PA110606.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXn56S8owG8reNhKB3EvCshuIVGxCKiqTbfg4jb_1Ea3_vf1-bewBPLKFQvVy2DVlwLYfx2HzOOcljwUjjYU08xKdkatj3DyWWFbJ2gcsyn3Xp55we5EqybR5bQPxnRuV5vdbphsD5ToyC/s400/PA110606.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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As I have put in my Facebook status, my highest ups and
lowest lows happened in 2012. Nevertheless, it was a very great year.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Looking back to the year that was, it had a blast on the
first until the third quarter. I had carried well my work-life balance; met new
friends, reconnected with the old ones and lived every day to the fullest.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Highlight of my year was I had to travel alone in different
destinations. Getting to see Eiffel light up in the dark sky was amazing. Getting
to see the Alpine mountain and experience its chilly side was different. Watching
the sun as it rose behind the Angkor Wat temple was stunning and swimming with
the Badjao kids in Tawi-Tawi was a totally different experience.<o:p></o:p></div>
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However, every up have its lows. The last quarter of this
year was a big blow to me. Personal problems came in and I was almost
shattered. Morale was very down during those times that I had to take a
month-long leave to recuperate back. Plus one more punch in my career just when
the year was about to end. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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But still, I am very thankful for a very wonderful year. Everything
that happened was an eye-opener in every aspect of my individuality.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Being an optimist, I can see 2013 will be a lot better than
2012. I have learned a lot last year and at least I gained more wisdom for my
decision makings this time!<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Happy New Year! <o:p></o:p></div>
Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05635088386914760574noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6216529695326589723.post-9579847265307446842012-10-30T23:55:00.001+08:002012-10-30T23:55:03.651+08:00Reviving<p><a href='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijQg7av6WoPMj9aOQgHlsNKUBJAavIl0iioa_JV3otApiZqtlF-cHAbvrbMtkWBoniEkeTT4eCe5HQQV-TMXk0s_RHknJV53KhpZWVtVSNQMJPi6xh_W2ZYynPYi2N4_Urql_TkQDKlXVj/s0/IMG_20121019_054318.jpg'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijQg7av6WoPMj9aOQgHlsNKUBJAavIl0iioa_JV3otApiZqtlF-cHAbvrbMtkWBoniEkeTT4eCe5HQQV-TMXk0s_RHknJV53KhpZWVtVSNQMJPi6xh_W2ZYynPYi2N4_Urql_TkQDKlXVj/s400/IMG_20121019_054318.jpg' /></a></p><p><a href='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW-NxHUZkl6S6s29BIM9CGM6emt7wU-mE68e1V0OO3-GmL181LPeFjAe5Vvbxu4U_3QNAh23DVRTRj_LylIGq1l-BtgbJ2XtnS74sSvD9qPVVxaCVkzAqaZf2uXfZBlMpmzm_4QgHQlMwx/s0/IMG_20121017_014045.jpg'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW-NxHUZkl6S6s29BIM9CGM6emt7wU-mE68e1V0OO3-GmL181LPeFjAe5Vvbxu4U_3QNAh23DVRTRj_LylIGq1l-BtgbJ2XtnS74sSvD9qPVVxaCVkzAqaZf2uXfZBlMpmzm_4QgHQlMwx/s400/IMG_20121017_014045.jpg' /></a></p><p><br>
I know I neglected this blog for a couple of months already so it's time to revive the the chronicles of a backpacker.</p>
<p>This time, it will be on a one notch higher, backpacking from the dynamic cities of Europe and to unique and lively South East Asia.</p>
<div style='clear: both; text-align: center; font-size: xx-small;'>Published with Blogger-droid v2.0.9</div>Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05635088386914760574noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6216529695326589723.post-72527894465096657672012-07-25T14:23:00.001+08:002012-07-25T14:45:30.637+08:00Where the Hell is Matt?I first saw Matt's video in 2008 and since then, I followed his escapades. Lately, I checked on his latest video where he danced with some of our Pinoy folks in Quezon City.<br />
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I'm dreaming to make my own video like this soon. :-)<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/Pwe-pA6TaZk" width="640"></iframe><br />
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Funny bloopers too.<br />
<iframe width="480" height="360" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/tT8jA_pps3o" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05635088386914760574noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6216529695326589723.post-86741777008961244512012-07-05T13:25:00.004+08:002012-07-05T14:27:15.866+08:00KINDLE TOUCH Review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxTlmw1yuP-AwfWWJP3N5Vy4I8tsl-Tpb0jFH4VHno2sSq4QFA9acQPycVxBRImETOPwhaW0bSOVYkMrYC71EdQoF2jo8KhknPcEurAjfwUWy9jnkunbhjFFu98abLBn6b_ZocqYd8Udrn/s1600/IMG_1955.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxTlmw1yuP-AwfWWJP3N5Vy4I8tsl-Tpb0jFH4VHno2sSq4QFA9acQPycVxBRImETOPwhaW0bSOVYkMrYC71EdQoF2jo8KhknPcEurAjfwUWy9jnkunbhjFFu98abLBn6b_ZocqYd8Udrn/s400/IMG_1955.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
When my phone got snatched 3 weeks ago, I had so much frustrations which made me decide to buy a Kindle. It doesn't hurt much on the pocket and bookworms will surely love it. <i>Hindi rin siya mainit sa mata.</i><br />
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True enough, I fell in love with my new baby. It doesn't have the frills of the iPad or the chic features of the Galaxy Tab but having this is really worth it.<br />
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With its e-ink features, it won't stress your eyes reading for a long period unlike the famous tablets in the market. This has also an anti-glare feature which lets you read clearly even under the sun. Weighing only 8.5 ounce, you won't get numb or <i>ngalay </i>while reading.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWBsYs6V209xleyQb9-hcR2R6ZNrARDtMHEF9b_5sqy3pR2QrYDNNaB-X8sp5YEHJqWnJ3tljEg81mycSXuL42rFCOUW1bgGnTJxcxc7fYldIxeQ3-cJwJEFGAzFLRl6rANjXB_FVqeUt9/s1600/IMG_1957.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="302" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWBsYs6V209xleyQb9-hcR2R6ZNrARDtMHEF9b_5sqy3pR2QrYDNNaB-X8sp5YEHJqWnJ3tljEg81mycSXuL42rFCOUW1bgGnTJxcxc7fYldIxeQ3-cJwJEFGAzFLRl6rANjXB_FVqeUt9/s320/IMG_1957.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Kindle Touch is thin and small, it's the size of a ballpoint pen which can also fit directly in your pocket. I must say that this device is good for travelers because its battery can last for 2 months (my first charging lasted for 3 weeks though). One thing that I love here is the drag and drop feature, you don't have to open any applications to synchronize those books in your computer.<br />
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Well, it doesn't have games or applications but who cares when you really love reading, right? This has been my companion while riding MRTs and it's funny how fellow commuters would glance and take a read Murakami in my Kindle.<br />
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I bought my Kindle via sulit.com for only Php 5790 and it comes with thousands of ebooks that can be downloaded from a dropbox account. Sulit, right?Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05635088386914760574noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6216529695326589723.post-42050154482632256072012-06-27T23:04:00.007+08:002012-07-05T14:27:52.432+08:00BACKPACKING BATAD: A TRIP TO THE HUNDRED STAIRWAYS<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWBZkk2qu_ieB5bAx_NbAlhOm03citsOBu67anCa8PXOOGibeM5YFseWwajKsOkWStTUoqudp0JBs5GU9WZ5H45hdh7cy7vzoR1a2O8IaIsICGda4hGiCn4x1njY9e6hHHBkS4h7Qdp4tR/s1600/IMG_0246.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWBZkk2qu_ieB5bAx_NbAlhOm03citsOBu67anCa8PXOOGibeM5YFseWwajKsOkWStTUoqudp0JBs5GU9WZ5H45hdh7cy7vzoR1a2O8IaIsICGda4hGiCn4x1njY9e6hHHBkS4h7Qdp4tR/s400/IMG_0246.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">It took a year to plan this trip. If it’s not because of weather, our individual schedules don’t permit.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Last April 2012, my family hit the road from Baguio City to Batad in Banaue. It’s a very cold morning and as we ascended in the province’s high roads, sea of clouds appeared before us while the sun’s rays are prying in the horizon. It’s a blue moon experience to witness as such.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal">With the help of the GPS, we got lost a few times but it was fun. There’s even a shortcut that led us a kilometers of dirt road which pretty much you can already write your name in your car windows legibly. Though we got lost, we still managed to find our way out to the highway.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">From Baguio, we navigated through the Ambuklao Road which en routed us to Nueva Vizcaya before we reached the province of Ifugao around 1 in the afternoon.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Our main itinerary is to stay in Batad where the rice terraces have a better view compare to the one in Banaue town. Since I already contacted a tour guide before our trip, she met us at the town center to buy stuff (don’t forget to buy Gatorade or any energy drink to keep you hydrated during the hiking).<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">From the town center, we took of our excess baggage and left it in our car. Our tour guide always reminded us to pack light considering the 3-hour trek we need to endure. Jeepneys are for hire to the saddle point where you will start hiking down slope until you reach the community in Batad. <i><o:p></o:p></i></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">The trek was tiring if you’re not used to long walks but for sure you will forget the pain and blisters in your feet once you see the view.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">“WOW!” That’s what we all exclaimed when we reached the community overlooking the view of the Batad Rice Terraces. Of course we took the opportunity to get some pictures just before dusk.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">After resting for a few minutes, we walked through the narrow stones to go to one of the baluys where we spent the night. It’s a good experience to stay in these comfy houses. We are five in the group and stayed inside one of the baluys yet it's still spacious.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">One of my experiences here is to have a taste their native rice wine – <i>tapuy</i>. It’s a sweet concoction that I almost drank a medium-sized bottle if I didn’t share it with a new found friend from Finland who happens to visit the place for the 3<sup>rd</sup> time. It's also a nice sleep enhancer. :)</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">We have to wake up early the next morning to witness the majestic rice terraces before sunrise. It’s where you can view at its fullest.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Early after lunch, we need to head back to Banaue and endure the painful trek up to the mountain and reach the saddle point. Fortunately, they approved my request to stay for a while alone in the town center to wait for my night trip bus ride to Manila as they head to Ilocos.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">If not during market days, Banaue is a sleepy town but there are stores where you can buy souvenirs and banaue cookies (good native cookies). When I got tired taking pictures and buying some stuff, I went to a coffee shop where I sipping their native coffee with the view of the Banaue Rice terraces. I also met some travelers from Arizona who are doing volunteer works in Thailand before I hopped in to the bus.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Going to Batad is a nice experience and I recommend you to see it before it deteriorates although the government is helping to restore this UNESCO World Heritage. I spent only a fraction of my budget since everything in Banaue is affordable including the accommodation. For the jeepney ride, better if you can share it with a group so you can divide the P4000 charge. Buses plying to Banaue costs around P550 and their terminal are located in Lacson, Manila. Bring jacket too because the aircon bus is too cold!<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
For the baluy accomodation, contact <a href="http://batadkadangyanlodges.multiply.com/?&show_interstitial=1&u=" target="_blank">Kadangyan Lodges</a> at (63) 9175010134. For tour guide, contact Irene Binalet at (63) 9169848380.</div>Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05635088386914760574noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6216529695326589723.post-46615365570889287872012-06-08T01:28:00.001+08:002012-06-08T01:33:09.939+08:00TRAVEL BUGS<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://fbcdn_sphotos_d-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/2815_79116373411_6691517_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://fbcdn_sphotos_d-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/2815_79116373411_6691517_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Mom's asking me when I plan to go out of town so she can hop in. I guess, she succumbed to the call of the travel bug. Well, if she decides to come with me, I have to tame down on some adventures so she can catch up but thinking of it, this would be a good idea to travel and enjoy the world with the greatest person in your life.<br />
<br />
I'm excited!<br />
<br />
<div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tbody>
<tr valign="MIDDLE"><td style="background-image: url(http://beemp3.com/player/corner-topleft2.gif); background-repeat: repeat; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; vertical-align: bottom;"></td><td style="background-image: url(http://beemp3.com/player/bkgnd-top2.gif); background-repeat: repeat; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; vertical-align: middle;"> The Temper Trap - Down River .mp3</td><td style="background-image: url(http://beemp3.com/player/corner-topright2.gif); background-repeat: repeat; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; vertical-align: bottom;"></td></tr>
<tr valign="MIDDLE"><td style="background-image: url(http://beemp3.com/player/left-ltrow2.gif); width: 16px;" width="16"></td><td style="background-image: url(http://beemp3.com/player/light2.gif); background-repeat: repeat; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: bottom;"><div style="text-align: center;"><embed align="middle" allowscriptaccess="sameDomain" bgcolor="#ffffff" class="beeplayer" flashvars="playerID=1&bg=0xCDDFF3&leftbg=0x357DCE&lefticon=0xF2F2F2&rightbg=0x64F051&rightbghover=0x1BAD07&righticon=0xF2F2F2&righticonhover=0xFFFFFF&text=0x357DCE&slider=0x357DCE&track=0xFFFFFF&border=0xFFFFFF&loader=0xAF2910&soundFile=http%3A//www.magnetmagazine.com/audio/DownRiver.mp3%0A%0A" height="24" pluginspage="http://www.macromedia.com/go/getflashplayer" quality="high" src="http://beemp3.com/player/player.swf" style="height: 24px; width: 290px;" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="290" wmode="transparent"></embed> <img src="http://beemp3.com/player/logo_small.gif" style="border: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: bottom;" /> </div></td><td style="background-image: url(http://beemp3.com/player/right-ltrow2.gif); width: 16px;" width="16"></td></tr>
<tr><td width="16"><img src="http://beemp3.com/player/corner-bottomleft2.gif" style="border: 0; padding: 0;" /></td><td style="background-image: url(http://beemp3.com/player/bkgnd-bottom2.gif); background-repeat: repeat-x; border: 0; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-align: center; vertical-align: top;">Found at <a href="http://beemp3.com/download.php?file=7358275&song=Down+River">bee mp3 search engine</a></td><td width="16"><img src="http://beemp3.com/player/corner-bottomright2.gif" style="border: 0; padding: 0;" /></td></tr>
</tbody></table></div>Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05635088386914760574noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6216529695326589723.post-23324089824417440032012-05-04T21:35:00.020+08:002012-05-04T22:32:33.728+08:00Backpacking Guide: 4D3N Bicol Region Trip<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 0px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 0px; border-collapse: separate; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; line-height: 24px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', 'Bitstream Charter', Times, serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 18px;"></span></span><br />
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 24px;"><em style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; color: inherit; line-height: 1.5;">I know, this is already an overdue post since February. I never got the chance to write about this trip after the Mis/Adventures.</em></div><div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 24px;">Since our original itinerary to land first in Legazpi was scrapped, we had to re-plan everything. Fortunately, anything can be done randomly because we had no reservations on hotels and everything.</div><div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 24px;"><object width="500" height="375"> <param name="flashvars" value="offsite=true&lang=en-us&page_show_url=%2Fphotos%2Fandy_dugay%2Fsets%2F72157629882268387%2Fshow%2F&page_show_back_url=%2Fphotos%2Fandy_dugay%2Fsets%2F72157629882268387%2F&set_id=72157629882268387&jump_to="></param><param name="movie" value="http://www.flickr.com/apps/slideshow/show.swf?v=109615"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><embed type="application/x-shockwave-flash" src="http://www.flickr.com/apps/slideshow/show.swf?v=109615" allowFullScreen="true" flashvars="offsite=true&lang=en-us&page_show_url=%2Fphotos%2Fandy_dugay%2Fsets%2F72157629882268387%2Fshow%2F&page_show_back_url=%2Fphotos%2Fandy_dugay%2Fsets%2F72157629882268387%2F&set_id=72157629882268387&jump_to=" width="500" height="375"></embed></object><br />
<strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><em style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; color: inherit; line-height: 1.5;">DAY 1</em></strong></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 24px;"><span style="color: #444444; line-height: 1.5;">Landing in Naga was a bit rough; it's been raining all day in the city before we arrived. As we were on a budget trip with our backpacks, we rode a bicycle to the highway where we have to wait for a bus taking us to Naga. It's a short walk though but we were dead tired from the <a href="http://atufflife.blogspot.com/2012/02/being-spontaneous-type-of-person-i.html" target="_blank">previous day</a>.</span></div><div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 24px;">Buses to Naga comes from the distant towns of Camarines Norte and don't expect to have it air conditioned. Naga airport is a 30 minutes ride to the city.</div><div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 24px;">As soon as we hopped off from the bus, we decided to go to SM Naga and ask some locals where we could find their best-served dishes in the metro. As recommended by the people, we ate at Bob Marlyn's Restaurant. They offer good food here, we ordered a boodle fight meal which includes pork, shrimps and other seafood!</div><div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 24px;">There's nothing to do more in Naga so we decided to experience wakeboarding in CamSur Watersports Complex (CWC). We took the tricycle and told the driver to take us to the Central Terminal and ride a bus.</div><div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 24px;">There are buses bound to Pili, just tell the <em style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; color: inherit; line-height: 1.5;">"konduktor" </em>to drop you off at the entrance of CWC. Fare is minimal; I think we just paid Php 15.00 to take us there.</div><div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 24px;">From the national highway, there are single motorcycles that can take you to the main complex for P20. In our case, we just took one motorcycle since we can fit there together with the driver.</div><div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 24px;">CWC offers affordable thrills. An hour of wakeboarding including the helmet and wakeboard rentals would cost you P125. It doesn't hurt your pocket to pump up your adrenaline.</div><div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 24px;">After a few hours of spending ourselves getting pulled by cables on the waters, we went back to Naga City to grab a quick dinner before heading to Legazpi City.The last Naga-Legazpi bus leaves at 8PM so better be early at the terminal. The bus is old and already cranky but it's fun to ride these guys at the country side.</div><div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 24px;">The weather worsened on our way to the southern city. We reached Legazpi before 11PM and heavy rain was pouring. It must be the cyclone forming on that month. Tricycles were still available that night so we asked one of the drivers to drive us to Legazpi Tourist Inn.</div><div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 24px;">Legazpi Tourist Inn offers a decent room for an overnight. It's one of the old hotels I think. Don't expect luxury though so it's nice for backpackers like me. Although there was no aircon on the room we took, the hotel offers a free wifi at their lobby. Apparently, their comfort room's clean.</div><div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 24px;"><strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><em style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; color: inherit; line-height: 1.5;">DAY 2</em></strong></div><div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 24px;">We woke up early with a scattered rain showers, left the hotel around 7 and had breakfast at the nearest Jollibee. We asked some of the locals on how to get to Donsol, Sorsogon. We're glad that Bicolanos are very accommodating and hospitable. They helped us with the directions and what vans should we take.</div><div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 24px;">From the town center, we rode a tricycle that took us to the central terminal. It's the same terminal where we arrived the previous night except that there's a section for vans going to nearby towns and Sorsogon.</div><div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 24px;">At this time, I must say that you have to buy some nibbles to eat for the 2 hours travel. Van fare costs around P120-P140/person. The van was packed with locals and foreign tourists. This is the best part of traveling; you have to meet a lot of people and gain new friends. That's where we met Huang, the guy from Taiwan, Bruno from France and to guys from China which I wasn't able to get their names.</div><div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 24px;">We told the van driver to drop us off at the Santiago Lodging House and so he did.</div><div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 24px;">Santiago Lodging is already an established homestay for tourists visiting Donsol. The place is squeaky clean despite it's an old house. The room we took was big for 2 people and it costs Php 400 only. It is also located at the heart of the town so it's very accessible.</div><div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 24px;">When we were already settled, we went to the tourist center to register for the whale shark or more popularly called <em style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; color: inherit; line-height: 1.5;">"Butanding" </em>encounter.</div><div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 24px;">Since we are already a group of 6, we divided the boat rental. We paid Php 600 plus and entrance fee of Php 100 each. The boat ride is approximately 3 hours and it's enough to do the whale shark encounter. If you can bring your own goggles, I advise you to do so because I rented mine and got lost in the middle of the ocean, so that's additional dent on my budget.</div><div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 24px;">The encounter was so cool and I must say, the Butanding we saw was so big and SCARY! It's a must though, you just have to swim fast and chase them.</div><div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 24px;">The swim with them was tiring so head immediately to the town proper for lunch and take a rest until late afternoon.</div><div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 24px;">If you are looking for a sumptuous dinner, go to Baracuda restaurant. Although it's a bit pricey, you can have here the freshest seafood dishes in town. Rey and her sister manage the restaurant themselves, they are the one who serves your food and hop to guests' tables to check if the food is great or even offer you a rhum shot. I must say that this place is very nice, cozy with the view of the ocean and Bob Marley singing in the background.</div><div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 24px;"><strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><em style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; color: inherit; line-height: 1.5;">DAY 3</em></strong></div><div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 24px;">It's time to head back to Legazpi and see the view of the Mayon Volcano. Too bad the weather didn't permit us to see the view. Although it wasn't raining anymore, it was so humid and cloudy. But still were clinging to our hopes, we hopped off from the van in a barrio in Legazpi where we can take the jeepney to the Cagsawa Ruins, just tell the driver.</div><div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 24px;">After we had a quick stint at the Cagsawa, we headed back to Legazpi and checked-in at the Sampaguita Inn. They accommodation is cheap at P400/room but it was horrible. The place is dirty and dark, I suggest you to go back to Legazpi Tourist Inn. But we were so exhausted to complain, we just slept through it.</div><div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 24px;">I guess there's so much to say and nothing to do in Legazpi, we should have just stayed in Donsol for another night. But if ever you are already stuck in the city, you can go to Cie's Pastry Café and indulge in their creamy cakes.</div><div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 24px;"><em style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; color: inherit; line-height: 1.5;"><b>DAY 4</b></em></div><div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 24px;">Nothing to do, we just stayed indoor after having breakfast at Bigg's Diner because it rained all day. We just literally waited for our flight back to Manila.</div><div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 24px;"><em style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; color: inherit; line-height: 1.5;">Accommodations:</em></div><div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 24px;">Legazpi Tourist Inn: Php 800/room – non-AC but clean and free wifi, recommended for backpackers and on budget trip.</div><div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 24px;">Santiago Lodging House (Donsol): Php 400/room non-AC, clean and communal toilet, nice to stay in Donsol for backpackers.</div><div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 24px;">Sampaguita Inn (Legazpi): P400/room Aircon, not-recommended. Look for other hotels or stay again in Legazpi Tourist Inn.</div><div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 24px;"><em style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; color: inherit; line-height: 1.5;">Food:</em></div><div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 24px;">Bob Marlin Restaurant (Naga) - ~Php 200/pax.</div><div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 24px;">Bigg's Dinner (Legazpi) - ~Php 150/pax.</div><div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 24px;">Baracuda Restaurant (Donsol) - ~Php 300/pax</div><div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 24px;">Cie's Pastry Café (Legazpi) - ~P200/pax</div><div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 24px;"><em style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; color: inherit; line-height: 1.5;">Travel:</em></div><div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 24px;">Naga – Legazpi - ~Php 90</div><div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 24px;">Legazpi – Donsol and v.v. - ~P120</div>Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05635088386914760574noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6216529695326589723.post-3087614584284187802012-04-08T23:18:00.011+08:002012-07-02T04:29:26.780+08:00Ilocos Sand Boarding<div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">On April 6, I was finally able to experience the 4x4 sand dunes ride and do the sand boarding at Paoay, Ilocos Norte.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">When I first heard of this, this bored me as I thought that I will just ride the big jeep in a very hot desert. Together with my friends from Manila, we just planned to take pictures of the sand dunes after our visit to Paoay Church and Currimao Coral Formation.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">When we were there, you can see real wasteland- a vast ocean of sand and the south china sea in the west. On one of the sides, you can see a number of people queuing for the sand boarding.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvKIrGbCPazdHPbuqJVHFHEU4fEc7Ciro1eWASglvbhFcaxyXxetgFhFi7YfHX4t59TyZZlrMqq52qCbeh-Ky-m_NbxryUy_132nieNi2v-TsZVAfS-XlZy1N-qQwB_H_TZ6AaEsF4gGEX/s1600/DSCN0601.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvKIrGbCPazdHPbuqJVHFHEU4fEc7Ciro1eWASglvbhFcaxyXxetgFhFi7YfHX4t59TyZZlrMqq52qCbeh-Ky-m_NbxryUy_132nieNi2v-TsZVAfS-XlZy1N-qQwB_H_TZ6AaEsF4gGEX/s320/DSCN0601.JPG" width="320" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">aboard the 4x4 all terrain vehicle</span></i></div><div class="MsoNormal"></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">We took pictures at the truck to feed our adventure hungriness but we were more enthralled with other guests screaming who rode on one of the jeeps coming down from a mountain of sand. That's when we decided to give it a try.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv8jv98LL2zv-f4zoEF2QPDScdy1wcET5IuhYqRnJJi54udsXIcE8ZaMNR3jAADTleK7lQ9z6RZzFQQ6MA1gQKsdU-u9AogvONNz33nhdJ_qQcPp6hRqL9hpIbdUytmykPd4EQB8pJohu9/s1600/DSCN0613.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv8jv98LL2zv-f4zoEF2QPDScdy1wcET5IuhYqRnJJi54udsXIcE8ZaMNR3jAADTleK7lQ9z6RZzFQQ6MA1gQKsdU-u9AogvONNz33nhdJ_qQcPp6hRqL9hpIbdUytmykPd4EQB8pJohu9/s320/DSCN0613.JPG" width="320" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">middle of the paoay sand dunes</span></i></div><div class="MsoNormal"></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">With a P2500 fee for an hour of sand dunes tour and sand boarding, it’s a bit pricey. However, this is already good for 4 persons so that makes 750/head. After the transaction, we took the one of the vehicles and went on to an awesome experience. It was unexpected, the adventure is worth it!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyi6yxT1X2mENjlTcO6CzjD6sis6mX6Wj7azIqhbuQ9IitIhn-w_wug7Nn4Xkr6Pzr0FyVXcmYlZX4lk5rkyL-G8B6VavOzuvTmhF-e4buCLernR0qEzfzKlJVa0ce6iHB6mUWG0ATCyao/s1600/DSCN0616.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyi6yxT1X2mENjlTcO6CzjD6sis6mX6Wj7azIqhbuQ9IitIhn-w_wug7Nn4Xkr6Pzr0FyVXcmYlZX4lk5rkyL-G8B6VavOzuvTmhF-e4buCLernR0qEzfzKlJVa0ce6iHB6mUWG0ATCyao/s320/DSCN0616.JPG" width="320" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/zXQOM5eKxuU" width="480"></iframe></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">my first awesome experience of sand boarding</span></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/fg6GCNgxghk" width="480"></iframe></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">mish on the sand board</span></i></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Paoay Sand Dunes 4x4 Experience is located about a half-kilometer past of Malacanang of the North in Paoay, Ilocos Norte. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">P.S.:</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">If you plan to visit Ilocos Norte, we are now offering Bed and Breakfast in the comfort of home for only Php500/head. That’s inclusive of an air conditioned room (well, that’s our rooms but it’s not being used because my brother and I are now based in Manila), airport/bus transfers, and a hearty and genuine Ilocano breakfast! Mom cooks so it will really delight your appetite. Ask my friends for testimonials.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">We also arrange van tour in the province at half the price of prevailing rental rates.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">If you may ask why we are putting this up, we love traveling and it’s already our passion. So we thought of giving something for travelers who want to see the beauty of Ilocos Norte without spending much.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">For now, we initially offer this to a maximum of 6 persons because we don’t want our home to be crowded and for you to be relaxed. There’s even a hammock in the garden that you can use for stargazing during the night.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Send me an email at <a href="mailto:andydugay@gmail.com">andydugay@gmail.com</a> or tweet me <a href="http://twitter.com/andydugay" target="_blank">@andydugay</a> if interested. Guys, you can share this info to your friends since this is already a very good deal. J</span></div>Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05635088386914760574noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6216529695326589723.post-86807748383843646342012-04-03T09:31:00.001+08:002012-04-03T09:53:06.422+08:00LIFECYCLE MANIFESTO<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i>This is your life. Do what you love and do it often.</i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i>If you don’t like something, change it</i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i>IF YOU DON’T LIKE YOUR JOB, QUIT!</i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="281" mozallowfullscreen="" src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/34414313" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="500"></iframe></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">A lot of us are complaining too much because we don’t have this and that, we don’t have to do the things we wanted to, or we just complain as simple as that.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">I like the message on the video that if you don’t like something, change it. Be the catalyst and who knows, everything will follow through into their proper places.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">You complain of being overworked? Quit. Find what suits you. Or maybe, try to love your job.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">I love this manifesto and I want to share it with you. Travel, explore, smile, give your love, open your mind, seize the opportunities, dream big.</div>Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05635088386914760574noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6216529695326589723.post-29469849505404715462012-03-26T21:13:00.003+08:002012-05-04T21:36:44.991+08:00MOTORCYCLE DIARIES<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSGv1Fmg7RohZDxxbihfBGeGmkii6pFW7e0MYUgXEc6i80O7H-2VznSVqeJ9AYYUOdiMCM_Is1hlNVk1_a2t_zE7g8cj2aoSz03JkgoSJKP8bn4AKWc2CR7gQ1lw3FxK2woD8pqz-WmZ0g/s1600/photo+(1).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSGv1Fmg7RohZDxxbihfBGeGmkii6pFW7e0MYUgXEc6i80O7H-2VznSVqeJ9AYYUOdiMCM_Is1hlNVk1_a2t_zE7g8cj2aoSz03JkgoSJKP8bn4AKWc2CR7gQ1lw3FxK2woD8pqz-WmZ0g/s320/photo+(1).JPG" width="320" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">It’s almost a decade when I left the province and ventured my future in Manila.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">But from time to time, I visit Ilocos to take a break from the busy life of the city. Maybe a couple of weeks would do to check out what’s the latest buzz on the family including the all our relatives.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Actually, I am already spending my second week of my month-long vacation. This vacation in my hometown would rather be the laid back one after a spin-off in Coron and a planned trip to the mountain regions of the north in the next few weeks.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Nevertheless, I am enjoying the slow-pace of life here. If it would be possible not to time-track everything I am doing, it would be great. I wanted to imitate Nate’s adventure in Pantanal on Grisham’s <i>The Testament </i>where he didn’t need a clock to keep on-track of the time.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Like a new adventure, I took my old bike from the garage and visited the places I’ve never been for the past years. The road was still familiar but the surrounding’s already new. New houses were built and unfamiliar faces welcomed me.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">On my joyride, I was able to see my kindergarten school. It’s quite funny to remember how we squeezed in 20 children in an old wooden room. The school is now well maintained and cemented, a bigger room perhaps for the children.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Well, I think I am going to do this more often. Every time I’ll be visiting my province, I would make time to get my bike of the garage and go to the places waiting for my return.</span></div>Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05635088386914760574noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6216529695326589723.post-21737196754378523892012-03-17T12:59:00.009+08:002012-04-23T12:20:42.586+08:00Scuba Diving in Coron, Philippines<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIyiDLrHYpCC1TF6jkxBZLAIpIkYjQDblxZRyPCZaDDQQaaq8PMgeOgIi-jq09a4VmjS-GaFKHBZIGBUTo0fo6QAAg4Ksq8iS4dXOw-R2kPMOZDqmZBcA5k17aBpgPLhxzW86VmdUD70YJ/s1600/IMG_1572.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIyiDLrHYpCC1TF6jkxBZLAIpIkYjQDblxZRyPCZaDDQQaaq8PMgeOgIi-jq09a4VmjS-GaFKHBZIGBUTo0fo6QAAg4Ksq8iS4dXOw-R2kPMOZDqmZBcA5k17aBpgPLhxzW86VmdUD70YJ/s400/IMG_1572.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">On March 10, I brought my mom to Coron to take a break from our daily routines at work. When she saw my pictures a couple of years ago, she started bugging me to bring her there. Fortunately, I found a good deal for plane fares and hotel accommodation.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><div style="text-align: justify;">I can say that our trip was priceless. I can see in my Mom’s eyes how awed she was on the islands of Coron. She even dipped into the waters to try snorkeling and amazed with the underwater creatures.</div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRxM0bN9TFPz8XcsTMg1UMH8hveulU7fFJuODtg6AsbeXuhYoC0yEN3Nm4Vlyx14YWxPCeSMkcEJMcddfEdeh8UPq-wnL-HOe9vf0G_gCCuaff0shOwaSQknN3YrGOjFH7HdmKV4ItPfLI/s1600/P3140583.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRxM0bN9TFPz8XcsTMg1UMH8hveulU7fFJuODtg6AsbeXuhYoC0yEN3Nm4Vlyx14YWxPCeSMkcEJMcddfEdeh8UPq-wnL-HOe9vf0G_gCCuaff0shOwaSQknN3YrGOjFH7HdmKV4ItPfLI/s400/P3140583.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>mom posing underwater</i></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><div style="text-align: justify;">But the highlight of this trip was my scuba dive. On March 15, I was able to cross out one more item on my bucket list before I reach the age of 30. First, I need to persuade Mom to let me dive into the open sea. Maybe, it took more than an hour of negotiation before she said it’s my choice. LOL!</div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><div style="text-align: justify;">Around 6 in the morning when I started packing my bag with food stuff and walked into the nearby dive shop. There were already a couple of people there preparing for the scuba diving. I also realized that I’m the only Pinoy going to dive that day. All of them were mostly from Europe, Oz and America. I just can picture myself standing there dwarfed with those foreigners.</div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><object height="375" width="500"> <param name="flashvars" value="offsite=true&lang=en-us&page_show_url=%2Fphotos%2Fandy_dugay%2Fsets%2F72157629609339031%2Fshow%2F&page_show_back_url=%2Fphotos%2Fandy_dugay%2Fsets%2F72157629609339031%2F&set_id=72157629609339031&jump_to="></param><param name="movie" value="http://www.flickr.com/apps/slideshow/show.swf?v=109615"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><embed type="application/x-shockwave-flash" src="http://www.flickr.com/apps/slideshow/show.swf?v=109615" allowFullScreen="true" flashvars="offsite=true&lang=en-us&page_show_url=%2Fphotos%2Fandy_dugay%2Fsets%2F72157629609339031%2Fshow%2F&page_show_back_url=%2Fphotos%2Fandy_dugay%2Fsets%2F72157629609339031%2F&set_id=72157629609339031&jump_to=" width="500" height="375"></embed></object><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal"><div style="text-align: justify;">Anyway, after a two hours boat ride, we were able to reach the East Tangat Gunboat. We had orientation first and then did the shallow diving (along the island’s shore with reef). When everyone felt comfortable with our oxygen, we did the reef diving and reached the shipwreck around 10 meters below.</div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><div style="text-align: justify;">My first dive was awesome. It was surreal to see underwater creatures dwelling at one of the war ships during the World War II.</div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijWC2c3gQ7znUzOHdVkTO7lijYb9YExhlrInYAlgOr5Jz61sSfmIlH_UNoWtS2UsQA35-wvAQ1TLh2mIEWsnuF3txQBYRv3wgJ0JLOoRngvLvAxoAQFe2n4zdmo-RY1JxSa46xB2iGxUDp/s1600/PICT0077-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijWC2c3gQ7znUzOHdVkTO7lijYb9YExhlrInYAlgOr5Jz61sSfmIlH_UNoWtS2UsQA35-wvAQ1TLh2mIEWsnuF3txQBYRv3wgJ0JLOoRngvLvAxoAQFe2n4zdmo-RY1JxSa46xB2iGxUDp/s400/PICT0077-2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i>lion fish</i></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><div style="text-align: justify;">Next dive was at the Olympia Maru. It has to be done in the open sea and do the back dive. You need to have a good fighting spirit, I must say, because waves are big and you have to fight the strong current. I had more than 5 cuts and scratches here because we need to hold the rope that clings to the buoy.</div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">We need to swim 18 meters down to see the shipwreck. Video below:</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/GGfPGGPuq4c?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><div style="text-align: justify;">I am already hooked with this new adventure. I got my first certificate – Discover Scuba Diving (DSD) though, but surely I’m going back to Coron to take the Open Water Course and have myself licensed as a scuba diver.</div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbCwEM4MGt2E9VBxw0SHHGlBMj2sj-KRSzW6ofx64r5vkRGuCw94DXNkqMgNKMNwiHEDT6vPDRvXKLFo7A5clahvVqJRqbWiQMqPVi2k23C1D7dYFsTNKfLTu8KqAXHmMcmekgd1od-Bm-/s1600/P3150597-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbCwEM4MGt2E9VBxw0SHHGlBMj2sj-KRSzW6ofx64r5vkRGuCw94DXNkqMgNKMNwiHEDT6vPDRvXKLFo7A5clahvVqJRqbWiQMqPVi2k23C1D7dYFsTNKfLTu8KqAXHmMcmekgd1od-Bm-/s400/P3150597-2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><div style="text-align: justify;">To finally cap off the day, we enjoyed an ice-cold beers, fresh catch seafoods and lots of travel stories with my new buddies.</div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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***<br />
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Accommodation: Ralph's Pension House = Php 1200/room good for 2. (Tel: 63915 443 2193)</span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Tour Package for Day 1 - Php 850/each with lunch. (can be arranged with the staff of Ralph's Pension)</span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Scuba package by Coron Divers - P3800 for DSD and 1 open water dive. Certificate is optional. (Tel. 63918 6539854/63916 3275757, look for Mr. Arni Pabelonio).</span></i><br />
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</div></div>Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05635088386914760574noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6216529695326589723.post-83000073521997483192012-02-20T15:49:00.008+08:002012-03-17T21:40:03.652+08:00Mis/adventures I<div class="MsoNormal"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://a5.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/396974_10150557323583412_684193411_9081637_1977719868_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="155" src="http://a5.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/396974_10150557323583412_684193411_9081637_1977719868_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial;">BEING THE SPONTANEOUS type of person, I enjoy trips that aren’t planned- I mean no itineraries, no hotel reservations, just good pair of walking shorts and shoes, plaid shirt and a backpack filled with light clothes, I am ok. I already did this once at the Cubao terminal station and played <i>"eenie-minnie-moe"</i> on which bus to take me somewhere far.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial;">This time, I'm taking it to another level. It will be more adventurous and fun.</span> <span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial;">Well, I am less afraid of something happening to me rather than nothing at all that’s why I do this kind of stuff.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial;">Last February 12, I woke up very early in the morning to meet <a href="http://twitter.com/johnahmer" target="_blank">ahmer </a>at the airport and catch our 6AM flight. We decided to go to Legazpi City </span><span style="background-color: white;">without any plans at all. With a few bucks from his and my savings, we braved</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><span style="background-color: white;">of going there and let the province surprise us.</span><span class="apple-converted-space" style="background-color: white;"> </span><span style="background-color: white;">It was a gloomy morning but no chance of heavy downpour. Once we got ourselves at the airport, we checked-in and waited at the boarding gate.</span><span class="apple-converted-space" style="background-color: white;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial;">After an hour of sitting and observing fellow passengers at departure area, the attendants finally announced the boarding.<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>We lined up on the bridge, searched for our assigned seats and buckled-up our seatbelts. We’re ready to fly but anxious of what’s in store for us upon arrival.</span><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial;">The plane already ramped into the runway and waiting for clearance. We can already hear the engines roar but wondering why it’s taking too long to blast to its full speed.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial;">Then the engine died. </span><br />
<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial;">In a brief moment, the captain spoke telling everybody that flight is cancelled due to bad weather at the destination. His voice was a bit disappointed and sympathetic to the passengers who need to go home.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial;">We were instructed that we need to get back to the terminal and have our tickets rebooked. </span><span style="background-color: white;">We retrieved our backpacks, walked back to the terminal building and queued up again to wait for the next available flight and for this time, Naga City.</span><br />
<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial;">We kept ourselves cool, we just thought of departing that afternoon once the weather progresses.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2axIQHDCSDGig688IATOeQzGJxTIeYE-Oy4U7zBFbxoQ9t4cwoIOg9aFTSN4vh96c5IL6NkmMD8jYmDPTMSVKocYKA0FGlha9Icyz5P9c_D0PKpMa_gPR9fSqH4azWD2VrvDfAGA7PaNT/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: black;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2axIQHDCSDGig688IATOeQzGJxTIeYE-Oy4U7zBFbxoQ9t4cwoIOg9aFTSN4vh96c5IL6NkmMD8jYmDPTMSVKocYKA0FGlha9Icyz5P9c_D0PKpMa_gPR9fSqH4azWD2VrvDfAGA7PaNT/s320/photo.JPG" width="320" /></span></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial;">What we don’t know, a new misadventure awaits.<span style="color: #454545;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05635088386914760574noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6216529695326589723.post-59275781599971976002012-01-30T21:10:00.000+08:002012-01-30T21:10:42.622+08:00Thinking of Job Hopping? Think Again<blockquote class="tr_bq"><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial; font-size: 24px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 27px; text-align: left;">"Employers want to see your progression at a company, whether it's up or across an organization."</span></blockquote><div style="text-align: right;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #999999; font-family: arial; line-height: 12px; text-align: left;">Dan Schawbel</span> </div><blockquote class="tr_bq">Read this: </blockquote><h1 style="background-color: white; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-weight: inherit; font: normal normal bold 30px/33px arial; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 10px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 15px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline; width: 600px;"><span style="font-size: 30px;"> </span><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://edition.cnn.com/2012/01/17/opinion/job-hopping-schawbel/" target="_blank">How job hopping can hurt your career</a></span></h1>Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05635088386914760574noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6216529695326589723.post-69984426645389246902011-12-13T16:46:00.002+08:002011-12-13T20:33:46.004+08:00Team Beech Conquers IlocosAfter a year of planning, we already made a one big vacation of our team in Ilocos. It was 4 days away from work (well, except on the first day).<br />
<br />
Thanks to my team buddy, @therichieyu, who documented everything. When I saw this video, I had goosebumps and a fleeting excitement. It was a fun-filled and bonding days with the team albeit the stormy weather in Pagudpud.<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Ca4sH2KWZkQ?feature=player_embedded" width="640"></iframe>Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05635088386914760574noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6216529695326589723.post-44567922455824839702011-10-17T19:05:00.002+08:002011-10-18T10:46:32.267+08:00LAKBAY-PAKAY<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiL3OIk6ZlkUZ_7YlBqwPL4I1PoHsdLVLvGc6ay8_NJay_oK20ABKnmPCbuiuFBKJvAl5zuV9DWgIZCWsvbbXeRFz3JAOy1miBv4DtxZQdK4yAPldN6LLxt948xF1SexPVVRc_QxPUFoe5/s1600/IMG_1707-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiL3OIk6ZlkUZ_7YlBqwPL4I1PoHsdLVLvGc6ay8_NJay_oK20ABKnmPCbuiuFBKJvAl5zuV9DWgIZCWsvbbXeRFz3JAOy1miBv4DtxZQdK4yAPldN6LLxt948xF1SexPVVRc_QxPUFoe5/s400/IMG_1707-2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">ang paglalakbay ay hindi pangsarili lamang. minsan, mainam din na ang <a href="http://atufflife.blogspot.com/2011/01/time-to-give-back-year-end-post.html">layunin</a> ng iyong paglalakbay ay para magdulot ng tuwa sa iyong kapwa.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">ang post na ito ay entry para sa pakontest ni bulakbol na <i><a href="http://www.bulakbolero.com/2011/09/sasama-ka-bang-magbulakbol-sa-bolero.html">"tara na't magbulakbol"</a> </i>:)<br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">taken during the<i> A Time to Give Back Project</i> | Adams, Ilocos Norte | December 2010. Link <a href="http://atufflife.blogspot.com/2011/01/time-to-give-back-year-end-post.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">here.</span></a></span></div>Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05635088386914760574noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6216529695326589723.post-42545049855941750022011-08-05T04:37:00.002+08:002011-08-05T13:55:13.017+08:00move, learn, eatWho doesn't like travelling especially if it is for leisure? I guess none of you will raise your right hand. <br />
<br />
I saw this cool video online and i thought that it's worth sharing. Enjoy! :)<br />
<br />
<iframe frameborder="0" height="225" src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/27246366?color=ffffff" width="400"></iframe><br />
<a href="http://vimeo.com/27246366">MOVE</a> from <a href="http://vimeo.com/rickmereki">Rick Mereki</a> on <a href="http://vimeo.com/">Vimeo</a>.<br />
<br />
<iframe frameborder="0" height="225" src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/27244727?color=ffffff" width="400"></iframe><br />
<a href="http://vimeo.com/27244727">LEARN</a> from <a href="http://vimeo.com/rickmereki">Rick Mereki</a> on <a href="http://vimeo.com/">Vimeo</a>.<br />
<br />
<iframe src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/27243869?color=ffffff" width="400" height="225" frameborder="0"></iframe><p><a href="http://vimeo.com/27243869">EAT</a> from <a href="http://vimeo.com/rickmereki">Rick Mereki</a> on <a href="http://vimeo.com">Vimeo</a>.</p><br />
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- Posted using BlogPress from my iPadAndyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05635088386914760574noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6216529695326589723.post-11464669785487741692011-08-01T12:38:00.000+08:002011-08-01T12:38:44.906+08:00I LOVE MANILA...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-4qdPo9WNlXG8oMbFr31CHxDY-7IICGnpGT67fBTzODCDlRu9cV6BI-p8TAadQrPXZxxBM54B7jomHiaBpmwwX4LmWGFOTmUEwKtlG-f6PSUH0SmsCpb-nWOJwYG1sK5zcP-3eBlnV5zN/s1600/ystar1b250.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-4qdPo9WNlXG8oMbFr31CHxDY-7IICGnpGT67fBTzODCDlRu9cV6BI-p8TAadQrPXZxxBM54B7jomHiaBpmwwX4LmWGFOTmUEwKtlG-f6PSUH0SmsCpb-nWOJwYG1sK5zcP-3eBlnV5zN/s320/ystar1b250.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">I saw this article in the Young Star section of the Philippine Star and subsequently, on <a href="http://domjullian.blogspot.com/">Dom Jullian’s</a> post.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Apparently, there are so many opportunities abroad that lures most of us to work there. However, weighing down the pros and cons, I’d rather want to stay and live here in manila or in the country per se.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Here are my top 5 reasons:</div><div class="MsoNormal"></div><ol><li style="text-align: justify;">My family and good friends are here. I don’t have to spend a lot of money to buy a plane ticket just to see them. I can knock on their doors anytime I want.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">The weather. I like the weather here. Singapore is too hot and Paris is too cold. Consequently, we don’t experience the harsh season of winter. Just cool and sunny weather.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">I can have my favorite dish from mom with just one call. <span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">J</span></span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;"></span></span>Commuting around the city is cheap. A taxi ride in Tokyo or Hongkong would cost you a thousand bucks.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">I feel safer here than any rest of the world.</li>
</ol><div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcGxd1U6AFp_Buhq9wwy19BDrPc-FxryZ_KaJEgUCy19B9UQHb0l-z4Zfvf3wsN1YlyZfNSW_E6Ca-NNTXVM21lwGPbnDAUkm2WU8h9qnXU_JpGJGJQBLnph_jQQZ-y7EF_dyWvxb7IxTi/s1600/AltayaJeepney.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; color: black;"></span></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcGxd1U6AFp_Buhq9wwy19BDrPc-FxryZ_KaJEgUCy19B9UQHb0l-z4Zfvf3wsN1YlyZfNSW_E6Ca-NNTXVM21lwGPbnDAUkm2WU8h9qnXU_JpGJGJQBLnph_jQQZ-y7EF_dyWvxb7IxTi/s1600/AltayaJeepney.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcGxd1U6AFp_Buhq9wwy19BDrPc-FxryZ_KaJEgUCy19B9UQHb0l-z4Zfvf3wsN1YlyZfNSW_E6Ca-NNTXVM21lwGPbnDAUkm2WU8h9qnXU_JpGJGJQBLnph_jQQZ-y7EF_dyWvxb7IxTi/s320/AltayaJeepney.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05635088386914760574noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6216529695326589723.post-70757804278001800272011-06-24T16:47:00.005+08:002011-06-27T12:28:24.682+08:00THE SOCIAL NETWORK<span xmlns=""></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">In the advent of social networks, it's been very easy to communicate with your friends. With just few clicks and taps on your mobile and computers, a message is sent. I was eager to use when I had my first hand with the so called Twitter and Facebook. It feels so good to be part of the virtual network.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span xmlns=""><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span xmlns="">These applications play an essential part on our daily lives. Some people would check MMDA's tweets before leaving to office, some would check-in along EDSA or to check online newspapers. Some would open first their twitter rather than their work emails. Some would shout out that they are sooo late or wasn't able to sleep at all. Okay, I am <em>partially </em>guilty.</span><br />
<span xmlns=""><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span xmlns="">But recently, these things going on are paving out my usual daily routine. My usual fad has now become a distraction <em>(that's one of the reasons why I laid some of them six feet below).</em></span><br />
<span xmlns=""><em><br />
</em></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span xmlns="">However, I want to picture out the bigger picture here. We are now forgetting the importance of communicating personally. We laugh at those funny tweets and send virtual hugs for those who are in pain and sorrow, but do they see and feel our laughter and compassion?</span><br />
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</span></div><span xmlns="">Why not start something in the morning like instead of tweeting that you're having a hearty breakfast in Starbucks, ask one of your friends or colleagues to join you and share a cup of coffee?</span>Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05635088386914760574noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6216529695326589723.post-17756291720133880922011-05-18T00:55:00.001+08:002011-05-18T01:17:16.089+08:00CHEF WANNABE<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GbK93KB7O_4/TdKn-X4G2kI/AAAAAAAAATs/xU65k0OgpwY/s1600/IMG_6620.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GbK93KB7O_4/TdKn-X4G2kI/AAAAAAAAATs/xU65k0OgpwY/s320/IMG_6620.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">pasensya na <a href="http://chingoy-iembracegreatness.blogspot.com/">kuya chingoy</a> if i used your title to be my post kaya alis muna dyan. LOL! anyway, since dad left to somewhere somewhere and mom is rendering overtime work daily at the office, ako na ang naging all-around boy. ampota, ang hirap pala ng maging houseband!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">on the brighter side, dahil sabi nga nila na napabayaan ako sa kusina nung bata ako, pinanindigan ko na din lang ang pagluluto. kaya kaninang hapon, hinalungkat ko na ang laman ng ref at napagtanto kong meron na akong pang-pinakbet. sa totoo lang, sinubukan ko nang magluto ng pinakbet nun pero fail talaga. kung hindi hilaw eh sobrang alat.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">kaya kanina ay pinagtiisan ko itong gawin. at ang resulta? simot ang niluto ko. whew! salamat sa bagnet. :)</div>Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05635088386914760574noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6216529695326589723.post-84501382456241086332011-05-02T00:31:00.000+08:002011-05-02T00:31:28.771+08:00HOMESICK<span xmlns=""></span><br />
Malapit na akong mag-isang dekada dito sa Manila. Ginugol ko lahat ito mula nung nagsimula akong pumasok ng college hanggang sa magkatrabaho.<br />
<span xmlns="">Lahat naman siguro ng promdi na kagaya ko ay naranasan ang separation anxiety. Mahirap talaga kapag tinamaan ka ng ganitong sitwasyon. Yung mga taong pwede mo sanang takbuhan ay nasa malayo.<br />
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<span xmlns="">Hindi naging madali sa akin ang mag-adjust lalo na at perstaym kong masalta dito ng mag-isa. Putek, para akong baliw nun, meron akong notebook nun na maliit at nakalista kung ilang araw na lang ang natitira bago mag-sembreak. Minsan nga pag tinatawagan ako ng nanay ko sa telepono, umiiyak ako pero di ko pinapahalata sa kabilang linya. Nakakahiya! Haha!<br />
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<span xmlns="">Nakaraos din naman ako ng ilang buwan at nasanay na akong mag-isang mamuhay dito sa siyudad.<br />
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<span xmlns="">Subalit, datapwat, pero, ewan ko ba kung anong nakain ko kanina at bigla na lang ako naging emo. Bigla na lang akong nahomesick at gustung-gusto kong umuwi ng probinsya. Kung maaari lang sana kaso syempre kelangan ding isipin kung may budget at kung papayagan ba ako ng trabaho ko.<br />
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<span xmlns="">Sa totoo lang, sinisisi ko ang sarili kung bakit ako nagkaganito ngayon araw na to. Ikaw ba naman kasi ang humilata maghapon at walang gawin? Nagkaroon na ng rotation ang earth pero nasa kama pa din ako. Hindi ko man lang nasilayan ang tanawin sa labas. Ganun palagi ang dahilan kung bakit ako nahohomesick.<br />
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</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XM0epTXwGt8/Tb2KPciAIuI/AAAAAAAAATo/sawDitx46ik/s1600/05012011%2528001%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XM0epTXwGt8/Tb2KPciAIuI/AAAAAAAAATo/sawDitx46ik/s320/05012011%2528001%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">plane spotting at the rooftop. 1 departing and 1 on its final approach</span></i></div><span xmlns=""><br />
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<span xmlns="">Kaya ginawa ko, umakyat na lang ako sa rooftop, nag-plane spotting habang hawak ang isang bote ng beer at isang stick ng yosi. Ayos din kasi mahangin sa rooftop at tila pinawi ng hangin ang aking kalungkutan. Naks!<br />
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<span xmlns="">- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad</span>Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05635088386914760574noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6216529695326589723.post-67846676350300806852011-04-30T00:42:00.001+08:002011-04-30T00:45:21.157+08:00EYOHW PHOWZ!Kumusta naman ang title, wala na talaga akong maisip na maisusulat pa sa blog. Pang-alis agiw lang at nagdedemand na din kasi si Rafter ng bagong post (demanding much?!). Masyado na kasing nawili sa kaka-twit at sa trabaho pero at least naman nakakabisita pa din ako sa mga bahay-bahay nyo. Hehehe. <br /><br />Minsan lang ang sarap namnamin ang summer pero nitong mga nakaraang araw, halos isumpa ko na ang sobrang alinsangan ng panahon sa pinas. Nagbibihis pa lang kasi ako, pinagpapawisan na at basa na ang kili-kili. Lol!<br /><br />Anyway, kumusta naman ang mga activities nyo ngayong summer? Naiinggit ako sa iba kasi nakapag-bakasyon na at nakapag-tampisaw na sa summer. Sa sobrang pagka-busy kasi sa office, hindi ko na alam kung paano ko isisingit ang isang ONE HOT SUMMER <del>FLING</del> FIX. <br /><br />Buti pa ang bwakanang Bansot na <a target="_blank" href="wickedmouth.com">Glen</a> eh nagtatampisaw na sa Bora! Pota, magsasabing pupunta sya pero di man lang manlilibre. Hahahaha. Bitter much?<br /><br />Basta susubukan kong makapag-summer escapade bago man lang dumating ang La Niña. San ba magandang pumunta?<br /><br /><br />- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad<br /><br /><p class='blogpress_location'>Location:<a href='http://maps.google.com/maps?q=Gen.%20A%20Luna%20St,Taguig%20City,Philippines%4014.531019%2C121.073567&z=10'>Gen. A Luna St,Taguig City,Philippines</a></p>Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05635088386914760574noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6216529695326589723.post-84861621866182302072011-04-05T03:00:00.005+08:002011-04-05T17:40:41.885+08:00COMMERCIAL BREAK!Although I am already working in an IT company doing a technical job, believe it or not, I was a graduate of Corporate Communications. In layman's term, that's advertising and it was a major career change making both ends meet during those transition.<br />
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</div><div>When I was in college, I foresee myself working in an advertising company like McCann, Leo Burnett, etc... I was exposed to TV then especially when our professors required us to watch the commercials instead of the regular television programs. These will be discussed on our next session talking about the creative idea and when it was aired and who owns that project, etc..</div><div><br />
</div><div>It was a great experience but very demanding. We have to scout to different tv networks to inquire for airing fee on various timeslots. And before we end the term, we need to come up with a great idea and squeezing our creative juices - a tri-media advertisement (TV, radio, and print) for a duct tape. It was hilarious but unfortunately, my professor didn't like it. haha!</div><div><br />
</div><div>Anyway, I was browsing on my facebook earlier and saw this very cute McDonald's commercial. Simple, catchy and funny. :)</div><div><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="390" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/Nesp15NU4Jg" title="YouTube video player" width="480"></iframe></div>Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05635088386914760574noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6216529695326589723.post-42363225197340256332011-04-03T05:27:00.000+08:002011-04-03T05:27:36.873+08:00QUICKIESThe coffee has just started its effect on me after our caffeine fix with <a href="http://grilledbeef.blogspot.com/">Gasul </a>and <a href="http://myunpurethoughts.blogspot.com/">Khacai</a>. I can't sleep and i can already see the stray of the first morning light on the eastern horizon.<br />
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Even though we already started at around 1AM yet there were no reasons not to enjoy the company. It was an unplanned eyeball of four not-so-strangers and it was one of the best.<br />
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I hope to meet other bloggers again soon. :)Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05635088386914760574noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6216529695326589723.post-73370463450052744842011-03-24T22:43:00.002+08:002011-03-24T22:45:08.297+08:00HOMEBOUND<span xmlns=""></span><br />
<span xmlns="">It was a busy day but I managed to have a small talk with my officemate spending her last day in the office. I learned she's going home in the province for good and plans to work there.<br />
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<span xmlns=""><em>"It was a tough decision. I have to weigh-in everything and have to give up lots of opportunities. I gave up a job waiting for me abroad and a high-paying job here in Manila,"</em> she told me when I asked what made her decide. <em>"I just want to live the simple life unlike the very fast pace of metro leaving, I want to teach in a university in Bacolod and reunite with my family,"</em> she added.<br />
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<span xmlns="">I admire her courageousness – she gave up the opportunities here and to find out what's in store for her in the province.<br />
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<span xmlns="">On the other hand, this made me ponder on my plans. I asked myself if I should stick to the plan of going home once I have enough savings. I guess so. I guess not.<br />
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<span xmlns="">I'm pretty much sure that I will ask again myself with the same questions anytime soon.</span>Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05635088386914760574noreply@blogger.com8