tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-60363904465604102222024-03-14T14:52:31.797+08:00Lost In The CityArman's Do-It-Yourself Guide to the Best Cities in the WorldArman Gohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13841824518243724166noreply@blogger.comBlogger23125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6036390446560410222.post-33468004800144593532013-06-29T14:22:00.001+08:002013-06-29T14:23:30.648+08:00Nami Island, Incheon Airport, Final Thoughts (Part 5)<div style="text-align: justify;">
Like most of the female population in the Philippines, my mom became hooked with the Korean Wave from the early 2000s up to the present. She would stay up all night, teary-eyed with heavy eye bags and all, and watch countless VCDs until she finished an entire series. Then it was on to the next one and this would continue for a while. She got so engrossed in Koreanovelas that she would discuss the latest dramas and swap CDs with her "fellow" K-wave addicts, it even got to a point where she was watching some without subtitles!</div>
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Her all-time favorite Korean drama is <b>Endless Love 2: Winter Sonata</b>. She would always tell me that if she ever got to Korea, she'd want to visit the places where they shot the most memorable scenes of the series. That place is <b>Nami Island</b>, located in <b>Chuncheon </b>about 2 hours away from Seoul. This is her main motivation in going to Korea, and as our time in the country was nearing an end, I had to make sure to get her there.</div>
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<span style="text-align: justify;">It was near lunch time when we arrived at the gates of Nami Island. The area of Chuncheon is famous for its Dak Galbi and there were lots of restaurants outside Nami claiming to serve the <b>"Original Chuncheon Chicken Ribs"</b>. We decided to try one of them and hoped for the "best". We ordered dak galbi (what else) which consists of diced chicken, chili paste sauce, cabbage, other veggies and rice cake all mixed into a big frying pan in the middle of the table. You are supposed to cook your own meal, but since we were tourists, the waiters kindly helped us prepare our food. At first sight, dak galbi didn't look appetizing (parang pinaghalo-halong kanin baboy) but all our apprehensions vanished at first bite. The taste is sweet and spicy, it's like eating a combination of tomato-sauced pasta and caldereta. We were almost able to finish the entire spread, almost.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Masarap naman pala</td></tr>
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Also called Namiseom or Naminara Republic, Nami Island is a tiny moon-shaped island named after a Korean General falsely accused of treason. It spans almost 6 kilometers, filled with tall chestnut trees, pine trees and beautiful grassland. Nowadays it's more identified with Endless Love II. Many visitors come to Nami to relive the famous scenes of the popular soap opera. The island has been heavily promoted by the government through statues, markings of the important scenes of the drama, souvenir shops, restaurants and recreational facilities. My mom also told me that <b>Bae Yong Jun</b> (the male lead) would occasionally visit the island, helping in its promotion as well as greeting visitors. Maybe she was hoping against hope that he'd be there when she came.</div>
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Inside Nami Island, you will be transported to an imaginary country where you will be issued passports and use special currency. Entrance fee is 8,000 won inclusive of round trip ferry transfer. The island is open everyday from 8 am to 9 pm.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lines at the ferry terminal, they're really popular aren't they?!</td></tr>
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After a short 10 minute ferry ride, we finally set foot upon the island. There are a lot of reasons to like Nami Island. First, it is surprisingly well organized with Tourist Centers and signage in Korean and English everywhere. This is in part thanks to the large number of foreign visitors. During our visit, I think half of the guests who came with us were foreigners. Secondly, the place is spotlessly clean and well maintained. I imagine it looks the same now as it had been during the shooting of Endless Love. Third, pictures, statues and memorabilia of Winter Sonata are on display throughout the island, no doubt to grab the interest of the series diehard fans. You might as well call Nami Island, "Winter Sonata Museum". Fourth, there are other activities to be done like biking, boating, eating and shopping. To make exploring the island easier, you should rent the popular two seat lovers bike (just like in the series). It may not be romantic riding with your mom, but it was a good family bonding activity and it saved our legs from heavy walking. We also tried some of the food found in Nami like baked sticky rice and Korean red bean bun. Lastly, the best thing about the island are the millions of tall trees lined up perfectly and looking down on you. This is nature showing bare beauty without the marketing and the emotional attachment that comes with the rest of the island. Walking in the middle of uniform, perfectly lined pine trees, makes for a truly romantic setting.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">K-addicts, does this look familiar?</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And I mean every...</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Relation to Endless Love?</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Romantic, indeed</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Red bean bun for sale</td></tr>
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To be honest, if you don't have any attachments to Winter Sonata, don't go to Nami Island. There are better parks in Seoul, and places with more historical significance. There is nothing particularly special to see or do in the island that would justify the long journey. It is too touristy and shamelessly capitalizes on the Endless Love phenomenon. I could think of a few places more interesting that I'd rather go on a day trip out of the city like going to Suwon or braving the DMZ. Oddly enough though, I would go here again in a heartbeat. We've been to a lot of cities and seen a ton of interesting sights but my mom was difficult to impress. Like for example, when we are raving and high about a particular place, it was she who would always put things in the right perspective, who would tell it as it is. But seeing her here at Nami Island with so much enthusiasm and cheerfulness, it was all worth it. In all are days in travel I'd never seen her any happier, and in turn, this made me happy.</div>
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<u>There are two ways to get to Nami Island. (A) You can do what we did and go independently. From the city, take the subway to Sangbong station. Then switch to the Gyeonchun Line and exit at Gapyeong station. It takes about 1 hour and 50 minutes to get from Seoul to Gapyeon costing 1,950 won. After exiting Gapyeon station, ride a taxi and tell the driver to take you to "Nami-som" (every taxi driver knows this). You will arrive at the gates of Nami Island in 10 minutes or less. </u><br />
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<u>(B) A more expensive but convenient option is to take a shuttle bus straight to the island. Tickets and bus stop are located at Insadong, beside the Tapgol Park. Round-trip tickets cost 15,000 won each and bus departs 9:30 am and returns 4 pm. It takes 2 hours to get to Nami. Advance reservations are encouraged especially during weekends as the bus seats tend to be grabbed really fast.</u></div>
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Satisfied with what we've seen in Seoul, we were now heading back home and off to <b>Incheon International Airport</b>. Incheon Airport is one of the largest and busiest airports in the world and dare I say, one of the best. It's a modern, complete and organized airport that will make any stopover stress free for its visitors. It's spacious, clean and tourist friendly, adjectives you'd want to have your airport associated with. Despite it's size, it is easy to navigate the airport because they have moving walkway everywhere and an underground train to whisk people to gates. The airport also has ATMs, money changers, lockers, a plethora of restaurants, cellphone rentals, duty free shopping centers and best of all, FREE wifi. Almost everything you'd look for in an airport is here, heck they even have an ice skating rink and golf course! There are also tourist information centers, and most of the staff in the airport can speak English. If you have to spend the night in the airport, there are sofa beds, I even saw some people who came prepared with pillows and blankets to boot! This is an airport where I would feel perfectly safe sleeping in. If you need to freshen up, there is an available shower and spa center.</div>
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Another thing to keep you occupied is the <b>Korean Culture Museum</b>. It houses a few artifacts and information about Korean culture. There isn't much to see, but it's free and a good time waster.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sleeping in the airport has never been sweeter</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Final bite: Kimchi Fried Rice</td></tr>
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<span style="text-align: justify;">The Day's Expenses (P) (Per Person): </span><br />
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Transportation 1,780 (Subway, Taxi, Airport Bus)</div>
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Entrance Fees 350 (Nami Island)</div>
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Food 1,000 </div>
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<u>Shopping ? </u></div>
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Total P 3,130<br />
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I left Seoul feeling better about myself, as if my knowledge of the city has grown exponentially, as if I'm in the know. I'm still far from being a Seoul expert but I've had my fair share of memorable Korean experiences. First and favorite among these is exploring the Myeongdong area to see, shop, eat and feel. Then there's visiting Changdeokgung and Gyeongbokgung, historic jewels, with the former's beautiful landscape and the latter's grandeur. Next on my list are the areas of Insadong and Dongdaemun. These places offered two different shopping experiences with Insadong and it's cultural shopping and Dongdaemun and it's modern, current trends kind of shopping. I'l also remember my side trips to Lotte World and Nami Island. In Lotte World my brother and I got to bring out the kid in us, while in Nami Island my mom got to feel young again. Finally there's Korean cuisine which I've survived and the Korean people which I've liked. Although it still wouldn't crack my list of favorites (too many veggies!), I did enjoy those which I could eat like bulgogi, galbi, guksu and mandu. The Koreans have proven to be ever the cool, glamorous and charismatic type as the world media has portrayed them but that's not all there is. They are also tech savvy, open minded, fun loving, disciplined and show a willingness to entertain their guests.<br />
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To conclude, I now have legitimate reasons for going to Korea or to go back to Seoul, reasons that the traveler in me could justify, reasons that I like. But most importantly, reasons that give me a reason to visit more than just the 4 K's.<br />
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<span style="text-align: start;">Helpful Links:</span><br />
<span style="text-align: start;"><br /></span>
<span style="text-align: start;"><a href="http://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/index.kto" target="_blank">Korea Tourism Organization</a></span><br />
<a href="http://www.visitseoul.net/" target="_blank">Seoul Guide</a><br />
<a href="http://www.pinoyexchange.com/forums/showthread.php?t=530741&page=64" target="_blank">PEX Seoul</a></div>
Arman Gohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13841824518243724166noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6036390446560410222.post-85818808758383718102013-06-29T14:21:00.004+08:002013-06-29T14:21:58.886+08:00Lotte World, Namsangol Hanok, N Seoul Tower (Part 4)<div style="text-align: justify;">
On our fourth day we decided to have a little fun, bring out the kids in us. One of the best places to do that would be in an amusement park, and we were going to the biggest indoor theme park in the world, meet <b>Lotte World</b>. Conveniently located in downtown Seoul, Lotte World is an all-in-one entertainment complex which boasts of an indoor theme park, an outdoor theme park, a shopping center, a hotel and a museum.</div>
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It is one of the two famous amusement parks in Korea (the other being Everland) flocked by locals and tourists. Make sure to arrange your visit on a weekday and check out if there is a school break or national holiday to avoid the dreaded long lines. We arrived early and purchased the adult ticket for 40,000 won each. It includes free admission to all the facilities and unlimited access to all the rides. There are discounted tickets available for children and for admissions after 4 pm. Also, do check out the KTO website for occasional discount coupons. During our visit we were able to avail of a 20% discount coupon from the KTO website.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">hello FUN!</td></tr>
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Upon entering Lotte World, you will be welcomed by the gigantic indoor theme park known as <b>Indoor Adventure</b>. Spanning 4 floors, it has over 22 rides, an ice skating rink, several fast foods & restaurants and a folk museum. Think of it as Star City on steroids! There's also a stage where a number of shows are performed daily to the tune of the season's festival (we experienced Masquerade). Despite being the largest indoor theme park in the world, Indoor Adventure is still fairly compact. You will be able to cover everything in half a day provided you plan your visit well. During our visit, the queues for most of the rides took from 15 to 45 minutes.</div>
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Of the 22 attractions we were able to try 8 which were: <b>The Adventures of Sinbad</b> (story telling boat ride, harmless, 2/5), <b>The Conquistador</b> (swinging boat, a little daring, 3/5), <b>Flume Ride</b> (waterfall plunge, a little daring, 3/5), <b>Drunken Basket</b> (spinning tops, for kids, 1/5), <b>Jungle Adventure</b> (story telling boat ride, harmless, may get wet, 1/5), <b>World Monorail</b> (elevated train, harmless, great views of the park, connects 2 theme parks, harmless, 2/5), <b>Pharaoh's Fury</b> (special effects car ride, harmless, 2/5) and <b>Aeronauts Balloon Ride</b> (suspended hot air balloon ride, great views of the indoor park, not for anyone afraid of heights, harmless, 4/5).</div>
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To be honest, most of the rides found in Lotte World are for kids. Those looking for more daring rides should go to Everland. A couple of promising rides which we missed were the <b>Giant Loop</b> (continuous 360 degree loops, will get you really dizzy, daring) and <b>French Revolution</b> (full speed indoor roller coaster, daring).</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Indoor theme park</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Flume Ride</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crime</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Punishment</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">After life</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ice ice baby</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">KatsuBAD</td></tr>
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After a forgettable lunch, we headed outdoors to <b>Magic Island</b>, an artificial island standing in the middle of Seokchon Lake. Magic Island is an outdoor theme park home to the more thrilling rides of Lotte World. Most of its 17 rides will cater to a more mature crowd. From here, it is easy to appreciate the fairy tale castle designs of the theme park as well as the surrounding skyscrapers of the city.</div>
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Some of the rides we were able to try include: <b>Bungee Drop</b> (bungee jumping simulation, daring, not for anyone afraid of heights, 4/5), <b>Swing Tree</b> (swinging chair, a little daring, 3/5), <b>Bumper Car</b> (classic bump cars, harmless, 2/5) and the park's most famous ride, <b>Gyro Drop</b> (free fall, extremely daring, 70 meters in 2 seconds, not for anyone who wants to live, I went solo, 5/5).</div>
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Due to time constraints (dad lost his glasses and mom wanted to go back to shopping), we were not able to try the other rides. A few other rides you guys might want to try if you're ever visiting include: <b>Atlantic Adventure</b> (outdoor roller coaster, daring), <b>Gyro Swing</b> (vertical and horizontal spinning top, daring), The <b>Comet Express</b> (roller coaster, daring) and <b>Waikiki Wave</b> (suspended waves simulation, a little daring).</div>
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I believe that your enjoyment of Lotte World will depend on how you view it. If you compare it to Disneyland or other huge amusement parks, you will be greatly disappointed both in terms of size and content. But how many attractions can you really fit in 1 day? If you only have a day to spend then Lotte is more than enough. Lotte also gets plus points for being conveniently located and for having a fully airconditioned indoor section. You wouldn't have to worry if its too cold or too hot; or whether if it will rain or not. Here, you are always sure of your plans pushing through and at least having a decent experience. If you're in a group with children or elderly members, Lotte World is the perfect, hassle free place to go for some good times. If you'll ask me, I would have preferred to go to Everland for the bigger & badder rides but I did have a lot of fun in Lotte World. </div>
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<u>To get here, take the subway to Jamsil station and head to exit 4.</u></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Outdoor theme park</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bungee drop: for teens #sisiw</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gyro Drop: I Dare YOU!</td></tr>
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We returned to Myeongdong for dinner and ate at the oldest restaurant in the area, <b>Yeongyang Center</b>. Yeongyang is famous for two dishes: tongdak (roasted chicken) and samgyetang (ginseng chicken soup). Obviously, those were what we ordered. Tongdak tastes exactly like Max Fried Chicken in the Philippines. Crispy skin with tender meat and a salty taste. The ginseng chicken soup was stuffed with rice and had little flavor. For the affordable prices (bill for 4 came out 20,000 ++ won) the food was acceptable. It's an ok restaurant to dine in especially if you're craving for chicken.</div>
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<u>To get here, take the subway to Myeongdong station and head to exit 6. Walk along Myeongdong-8 gil for 2 minutes until you reach the first intersection. Turn left and walk for 50 meters. Yeongyang Center is on your left side besides a Levi's.</u></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tongdak at the Yeongyang Center</td></tr>
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After dinner, we went our separate ways and I found myself exploring the nearby sights. I was able to make a quick stop at <b>Namsangol Hanok Village</b>. It's a cultural center consisting of 5 hanoks (traditional Korean houses) fron the Joseon era. Namsangol was already about close when I arrived and I only had a few minutes to look around. Nonetheless, I was able to view all 5 and I must say, they weren't any different from the ones I'd seen in Bukchon. I believe that visiting one hanok place is enough, as the experience you'll get is the same unless if you go to the Korean Folk Village which is just massive in size with over 260 hanoks but then again it's quite far from Seoul.</div>
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<u>To get to Namsangol Hanok Village, take the subway to Chungmuro station and head to exit 3. Walk along Hanongmae gil (tiny street) for 3 minutes until you reach Namsangol's gate.</u><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Namsangol Hanok: Sorry phone camera failed me</td></tr>
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Moving on, a scenic bus ride took me up to <b>Mount Namsan</b> where I found the <b>N Seoul Tower</b> perched high and proud. "New" Seoul Tower has been an iconic Seoul landmark since it opened in 1980. The views of the city below are superb and the temperature is jacked up several notches. Actually, I could see the tower from as far back as Myeongdong but it was definitely prettier up close and especially, during the nighttime when neon lights surrounding the tower were flickering and changing colors. Inside N Seoul you'll find an observatory, a rooftop terrace, a <b>Teddy Bear Museum</b>, <b>N Grill</b> (French restaurant), <b>Hancook </b>(Korean buffet) and the <b>Sky Restroom</b> (toilet up in the clouds?). Entrance fees cost from 9,000 to 42,000 won depending on which package you choose and / or whether you're also entering the museum or dinning at Hancook. </div>
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At the foot of the tower are a couple of restaurants, cafes and a souvenir gift shop. There's also a terrace where I found a fence full of locks with notes of love. I was tempted to write on my own lock but I didn't have anyone to write about. I was waiting for some random drunk girl to whisk me away just like in my favorite Korean movie "My Sassy Girl" but unlucky me, no such person came that day, haha.</div>
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Anyways, enough of the wishful thinking, I think the N Seoul Tower is no different from any other tower observatory I've visited. The experience is the same albeit with a different view. It's still worth a visit though, because it's open until 11 pm so you can squeeze it after you've finished up your day's itinerary. Also you don't even need to pay and go atop the tower, the views at the grounds of N Seoul are already wonderful. Lastly, it's the perfect place to just hang out on a bench, grab a cup of coffee and watch the city go to sleep.</div>
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<u>Getting to N Seoul Tower is an experience in itself. The first option is to take the bus which costs 550 won. This is easier, cheaper and more convenient. A bus stop is located at the foot of Chungmuro station exit 2. Take the yellow bus # 2 which goes directly below N Seoul Tower (there is English displayed on the bus routes). You can use your T-Money card on the bus. </u><br />
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<u>The second option is to ride the cable car costing 6,300 won round trip. This is more adventurous and offers more dramatic views. From Myeongdong station exit 3, walk until you reach the Pacific Hotel. At the Pacific Hotel intersection, head left and walk straight for 10 minutes until you reach a dead end. Head up the stairway and walk until you reach the cable car platform. Buy cable car tickets and enjoy your ascent to Mount Namsan and into N Seoul Tower.</u></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bus to N Seoul Tower</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">N Seoul Tower</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The city below</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Romantic or Good Marketing?</td></tr>
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<span style="text-align: justify;">The Day's Expenses (P) (Per Person): </span><br />
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Trasnportation 261 (Subway, Bus)<br />
Admissions 1,440 (Lotte World)</div>
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Food 1,000 </div>
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<u>Shopping ? </u></div>
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Total P 2,701</div>
Arman Gohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13841824518243724166noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6036390446560410222.post-17998158439128088142013-06-29T14:21:00.002+08:002013-06-29T14:21:35.950+08:00Gyeongbokgung Palace, Insadong, Dongdaemun (Part 3)<div style="text-align: justify;">
Another lazy start saw us begin the day with early lunch. We ate at <b>Yoogane</b>, a famous restaurant chain which specializes in dak (chicken) galbi. We ordered their Marinated Chicken Galbi Fried Rice and it was something. Each table had a frying pan in the middle where servers mix, flatten and flavor your chosen dish to perfection. Our fried rice tasted sweet and a whole lot spicy. Thank goodness they give a pitcher of water on every table, and even that wasn't enough! Aside from the the taste, Korean fried rice is different from Chinese or Japanese fried rice in that it isn't as dry as Chinese but isn't too sticky like Japanese. Overall I enjoyed eating at Yoogane, it's a solid choice for a meal in the city, it was good different.</div>
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Yoogane has many branches in Seoul, it even has one in the Philippines. We ate at the Myeongdong branch. <u>To get there, take the subway to Myeongdong station and head out to exit 8. Walk for 5 minutes along Myeongdong-10 gil, Yoogane is on the left side near the GS 25 convenience store.</u></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Super hot galbi fried rice at Yoogane</td></tr>
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Today we head over to Seoul's grandest palace, <b>Gyeongbokgung</b>. It is the oldest and largest of the five palaces, and the main palace used during the Joseon Dynasty. Must see sights inside Gyeongbokgung include: <b>Gwanghwamun Gate</b>, <b>Heungnyemun Gate</b>, <b>Geunjeongjeon </b>(Imperial Throne Hall), <b>Gyeongheoru </b>(Pavilion in an Island), <b>Hyangwonjeong </b>(Frangrance Pavilion) and <b>Geoncheonggung </b>(Emperor's Residence). Also inside the palace grounds are the <b>National Palace Museum of Korea</b> and the <b>National Folk Museum </b>(Visited during Day 1). There are guided tours in English for visitors. Admission costs 3,000 won each.</div>
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If you're only going to visit one palace in Seoul, make it this one. It's the most beautiful and most visited among the five. With Mount Bukhansan as backdrop, the views at Gyeongbokgung are picture perfect. I especially liked the Pavilion in the middle of an artificial island (Gyeongheoru). Overall the whole place is like a big treasure chest of Korean history If you've ever watched a Korean epic depicting ancient, majestic palaces, Gyeongbokgung is exactly like them. From the large wooden roofs, to minimalist designs, Gyeongbokgung showcases the best of Korean architecture. We were also able to witness the Royal Changing of the Guards which is actually a lavish ceremony and an experience not to be missed out.</div>
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<u>To get here, take the subway to Gyeongbokgung station and head to exit 5.</u></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Love the cave theme of this subway</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">National Palace Museum</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gwanghwamun Gate</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Changing of the guards ceremony</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jewel in the Palace?</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gyeongbokgung</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: justify;">Gyeongheoru </span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mount Bukhansan</td></tr>
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The next place we went to was <b>Insadong</b>, a place where shopping and sightseeing are rolled into one. It is Seoul's culture street stretching 700 meters from the Angguk station to Tapgol Park. It's a street where Korean heritage is proudly on display, anywhere you look there are galleries, tea houses, traditional restaurants and cafes, and shops selling local crafts. You will be able to find paintings, ceramics, traditional clothing and other antiques. The best part for me were the local food fare available like pajeon and manjoo. During weekends, Insadong is closed to vehicles and there are always various events and demonstrations held on the street.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Insadong</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I had no clue what the rally was for</td></tr>
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An eye-catching addition in the middle of Insadong is <b>Ssamziegil</b>, a covered shopping mall continuing the culture theme in the area. It's an architectural masterpiece which blends seamlessly to the surrounding area. Here you'll find edgy designer shops, local artworks, a few Korean restaurants and vendors selling Korean snacks. On the rooftop is a garden and a viewing deck and the whole complex just seems like a living work of art.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bumili ako dito ng milk tea, paso ang dila</td></tr>
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I have mixed feelings about Insadong. On one hand, it's an excellent place to soak in Korean culture and is commendable for promoting and preserving Korean heritage. The area is a good one-stop place to look for whatever local stuff you might fancy. On the other hand, it has been heavily commercialized and has been a magnet for tourists in recent years which has made it lose some of its appeal. The souvenir items and traditional handicrafts are overpriced and most establishments are bending backwards to accommodate foreign tourists. It's still worth a visit; it just feels a little artificial to me.</div>
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<u>To get to Insadong, take the subway to Angguk station and head to exit 6. Walk about a 100 meters then take a left (second corner) at Insadong-gil.</u></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The National Center for Souvenirs</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The only Starbucks of its kind</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Just some random eye catching building</td></tr>
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For the rest of the day, we embarked on a no holds barred shopping spree at <b>Dongdaemun</b>. Dongdaemun is a large commercial district with countless malls, underground shopping centers, wholesale markets and street side shops. This is the place to go for the serious shoppers (female) as the latest trends in fashion are always for sale and because shopping here is literally 24/7. In fact, some of the shopping malls are open until 5 am! If you're a guy, you may spend three hours tops, but for girls, be prepared to be here the whole day / night! Among the places to go to are <b>Doota</b>, <b>Migliore</b>, <b>Good Morning City</b>, <b>Hello APM</b>, <b>Pyeonghwa Market</b> and the <b>Dongdaemun Shopping Complex</b>. Also, check out the side streets and alleys for hidden shops and stalls nestled from plain view.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Continuation of the Cheonggyecheon Stream</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Underground shops</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hulaan niyo ano binili ko diyan</td></tr>
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One of the standout shopping malls in Dongdaemun is Doota. It's an upmarket mall with 10 levels of designer shops, luxury brands, fancy restaurants and lifestyle accessories. It is an elegantly designed mall both inside and out and where you'll see salaried Koreans spend fortunes on the latest fashion. The crowds are more relaxed and the prices are fixed. Most of the items are exclusive and expensive, but the quality is top notch and the choices plentiful (especially women's clothing).</div>
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On the 7th floor is a food court offering mostly standard Korean fares. We decided to eat dinner here. We regret doing that. We tried most of the stalls but the food throughout were consistently awful.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crap crap crap!</td></tr>
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Right besides Doota are three similarly themed malls, Migliore, Hello APM and Good Morning City. These malls cater to the younger generation with the hottest fashion clothes and accessories at cheap prices. Sellers are cheerful and persuasive in attracting customers to check out their stalls. Haggling is required along with a nice smile and a keen eye for bargains. The items for sale are practically identical in each mall, it's just a matter of finding the shop with the lowest prices. These malls open late and stay open until the wee hours of the morning. If you love 168 Mall in Divisoria or MBK in Siam then you're gonna love these malls in Dongdaemun.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dongdaemun malls</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ladies, excited?</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">waiting for Sandara...</td></tr>
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Some of the sights which are not shopping related that you can check out in Dongdaemun include: <b>Dongdaemun Gate</b>, <b>Dongdaemun Design Plaza</b> and a section of the Cheonggyecheon Stream which cuts through it. Also called Heunginjimun, Dongdaemun Gate is one of the Four Great Gates of Seoul and one of it's most prominent landmark. Alas, the bad luck continued as the gate was also under renovation when we visited. Aside from Myeongdong, Dongdaemun is a good place to exchange money. The Forex rates offered here are competitive. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My Dongdaemun gate view :(</td></tr>
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I like Dongdaemun. My mom loves Dongdaemun. It's my second favorite place in Seoul. The shopping opportunities are truly limitless. There are also lots of restaurants and street food on hand. Every night there seems to be an activity on its streets, it redefines the concept of night shopping. The only drawback I see is that it gets repetitive. For someone with a short attention span such as me, seeing the same stuff over and over again gets boring. You can only buy so much of the same stuff from different stores. It's the perfect base for people who love shopping, but I prefer Myeongdong which offers more but my mom would certainly disagree.</div>
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<u>To get here, take the subway to Dongdaemun station and head to exit 8 or 9.</u></div>
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<span style="text-align: justify;">The Day's Expenses (P) (Per Person): </span><br />
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Trasnportation 155 (Subway)</div>
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Food 800 </div>
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<u>Shopping ? </u></div>
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Total P 955</div>
Arman Gohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13841824518243724166noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6036390446560410222.post-22362105129831051832013-06-29T14:21:00.001+08:002013-06-29T14:21:18.586+08:00Olympic Park, Namdaemun Market, Gwanghwamun Square, Cheonggyecheon Stream (Part 2)<div style="text-align: justify;">
After a hectic introduction to Seoul yesterday, our day started late and we began with buffet brunch at <b>Todai Restaurant</b>. Located at the top floor of Noon Square, Todai is a an international buffet chain serving mostly seafood. The spread was a bit limited for my liking with a heavy concentration of fresh seafood, a few Korean dishes, a Japanese station, an Italian station, a pastries station and a dessert station. For drinks, there were sodas, fruit juice and beers. What Todai lacked in quantity though, was made up in quality dishes and rare buffet offerings like snow crab legs. The food was delicious and a fine way to start the morning. My father especially liked the fresh oysters and sashimi. <br />
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The lunch buffet costs around 40,000 won each. For the price, Todai is a good restaurant to try unusual dishes that are hotel quality. I just wish they had more offerings as the selection empties out quickly and you'll soon find yourself eating the same stuff over again.</div>
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<u>Todai Restauarant is located at the top floor of Noon Square. To get here, take the subway to Euljiro 1-ga station exit 6. Walk along Namdaemun-ro for 5 minutes, Noon Square is on your left and opposite Lotte Young Plaza.</u></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The feeling out process</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Heating Up</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In the Zone</td></tr>
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With heavy tummies, we were hoping to shed some pounds off in our next destination, <b>Olympic Park</b>. This was the site where most of the games were held during the 1988 Seoul Olympics. Aside from the stadiums used during the Olympics, it has also been converted into a huge public park for the locals to hang out, exercise and have fun. At the entrance of the park you will be welcomed by the <b>Peace Gate</b>, a beautiful arch with the Olympic flame tucked in it's center. Covering the entire park will take quite some time and it is advisable that you rent a bike outside near the park entrance. I was able to see several stadiums although renovations were ongoing, the <b>Olympic Museum</b> (3,000 won), and some weird artwork scattered throughout the grounds.</div>
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As it was winter, the park barely had any trees and plants to be found. Also, there really weren't much to be seen, as the old stadiums were nothing special and there wasn't anything that kept us interested. If we were going to re-do this day, I would probably skip the Olympic Park and go somewhere else.</div>
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<u>To get here, take the subway to Mongchontoseong station exit 1.</u></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Eternal Flame</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bro's new profession</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bizarre Art</td></tr>
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Our next stop took us to <b>Namdaemun Market</b>, the largest traditional market in Korea. Located next to flashy Myeongdong, Namdaemun is more old school where most of the goods for sale are inexpensive and haggling is still the name of the game. You will find a variety of stuff ranging from cheap clothing, eye wear, kitchenware, sports gear, K-Pop goodies, CDs, electronics and old herbal medicine. This is also the place to buy the usual t-shirts, magnets and other related travel souvenirs. For the serious buyer, there's even a wholesale market section. Be prepared though to rough it out with the crowds after all it's an open air type of a market similar to Baclaran or Khao San.</div>
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Another reason to visit are the endless street food stalls. When the sun goes down and most of the shopping ceases, Namdaemun plays host to street vendors wielding their various food carts while others set up tents complete with tables and chairs. Most of the dishes are too exotic (heck I don't even eat vegetables) for me like soondae (blood sausage), twigim (deep fried veggies) and gimbap (seaweed rice). More palate friendly are mandu (dumpling), hotteok (fried pancake) and local favorite tteokboki (red rice cake). A more relaxed option is to eat in one of the tents, grab some beers and have some authentic grilled Korean meals.</div>
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An added tip, don't forget to check out the famous <b>Namdaemun Gate</b>. Also called Sungnyemun, the gate is considered to be Korea's # 1 national treasure. The gate is a wooden structure on top and stone structure below where an arched entrance is located in the middle. Sadly, I didn't get to see it in all of it's glory as it was covered in a giant tarpaulin when I got there. You see, in 2008, the gate was burned down by some disgruntled Korean which left it to ashes. During my visit, the reconstruction was still ongoing and the gate was off limits to the public. Luckily for you guys, by this time, Namdaemun Gate is now open, so maybe you guys should be the ones telling me how it really looks!</div>
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<u>To get to Namdaemun, take the subway to Hoeheyeon station and choose exit 5. </u></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Even on developed countries, there is poverty</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Namdaemun</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Isang hilera ng food stalls</td></tr>
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My companions decided to spend the rest of the night shopping at Myeongdong which left me alone to check out some other sites. I eventually found myself at <b>Gwanghwamun Square</b>. The square is a public gathering place located near Gyongbokgung Palace where the main attraction is the <b>King Sejong The Great Statue</b>. King Sejong is revered in Korea for having invented the hangeul alphabet among his many inventions. Underneath the square near the subway entrance is a small gallery telling the king's story and displaying some of his artifacts. Other sights not to be missed include the <b>Admiral Yi Statue</b>, the <b>12:23 Fountain</b> and the <b>Haechi Sculpture</b>.</div>
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It was around 10:30 pm when I got to the square and I was a bit surprised that there was hardly anyone there (for a public square). Also, lighting was poor and I could barely get decent photos on the statues. Despite the darkness and isolation, I felt perfectly safe as Korea is known to have a low crime rate where most offenses committed are petty crimes such as pick-pocketing and purse snatching. Aside from picture taking, there isn't much to do at Gwanghwamun Square. Maybe it would have been better to go on a Sunday afternoon for some people watching and witnessing special events.</div>
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<u>To get here, take the subway to Gwanghwamun station and go out at exit 2.</u></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">King Sejong Statue</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Admiral Yi statue</td></tr>
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Walking some more, I reached a grand waterfall which signaled that I had arrived at the entrance of the <b>Cheonggyecheon Stream</b>. The Chenonggyecheon Stream used to be all muddy and polluted until an expensive restoration project completed in 2005 transformed it into an environmental hot spot loved by the locals and viewed as a major success. The stream runs almost 6 kilometers long beginning at the Cheonggye Plaza near Gwanghwamun station and passing through Jogno and Dongdaemun until emptying out into the Han Gang River. Walking the entire stream will easily burn you an hour or two but you'll pass by interesting sights like the <b>Cheonggye Plaza Waterfalls</b>, the <b>Wall of Hopes</b>, the <b>Cheonggyecheon Museum</b> and several historical bridges and landmarks.</div>
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The stream truly is a welcome sight in a busy city. It's peaceful and calming despite being sandwiched in Seoul's busy districts. It's clean, green and brightly illuminated even at night making it the perfect place for a wonderful stroll. The money used in its renovation was well worth it as I believe every city needs a place like this. An escape from all the stress, the daily problems and reality even for just a short time.</div>
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<u>To get here from Gwanghwamun Square, walk straight away in the opposite direction of the King Sejong Statue for 3 to 10 minutes (depending where you are at the square). Chenonggye Plaza (entrance) is at the left hand side, you'll see a huge waterfall, go down, and you're there. </u></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cheonggye Plaza</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cheonggyecheon stream</td></tr>
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To cap of the night, I ate at one of the ramen and curry shops in Myeongdong. There isn't much to write about as the food is forgettable and average at best. Midnight frappuccino courtesy of local Korean business success story, <b>Caffe Bene</b> fared much better and were in my dreams as I faded fast into the night.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pork curry, not good..</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Korean "Starbucks"</td></tr>
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<span style="text-align: justify;">The Day's Expenses (P) (Per Person): </span><br />
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Trasnportation 170 (Subway)</div>
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Bike Rental 115</div>
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Food 2,000 </div>
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<u>Shopping ? </u></div>
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Total P 2,285</div>
Arman Gohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13841824518243724166noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6036390446560410222.post-58191436486186862132013-06-29T14:20:00.002+08:002013-06-29T14:20:52.749+08:00Seoul...Changdeokgung Palace, Secret Garden, National Folk Museum, Myeongdong (Part 1)<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Seoul: The 4 K's & More Reasons to Go</b></div>
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Kimchi. K-Pop. Koreanovelas. Korean War. These 4 K's were pretty much all I knew about <b>Korea </b>prior to my visit. Kimchi is the Korean staple food found in Korean restaurants everywhere. Who doesn't know the names Psy, Rain, Girls Generation and Bae Yong Jun? They are some of the products of Korean media that are fast gaining an international fanbase. Then there's the never ending tension between North and South Korea, an almost monthly headline at CNN. <br />
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On the travel scene, Korea has been in the shadows of other Asian countries and probably won't make it to the top of the list of must visits in the continent. I wanted to know if there was more to Korea than the 4 K's and if I could find a legitimate travel reason for visiting. Fast forward to the next piso fare, and soon, I was about to get answers as I got to explore Korea's capital and surrounding areas for almost a week.</div>
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<b>Seoul </b>is one of the major league cities in Asia and although it hasn't been as widely covered like neighbors Tokyo or Beijing, it has been steadily on the rise and fast gaining serious tourist attention. Seoul has been one of those lesser known travel cities just waiting for everyone to unveil her secrets. The city packs quite a punch offering many things like a tour of the 5 grand palaces, endless shopping in Myeongdong and Dongdaemun, burning hot Korean cuisine, the world's fastest internet and of course, meeting the Koreans themselves who are fashion conscious yet deeply rooted in tradition, who proudly welcome guests to their city and have been a huge influence on the world's social culture. I come to Seoul searching for the familiar, not really knowing what to expect but open for everything she throws my way.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My Reasons to go to Korea</td></tr>
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Before arriving in Seoul, it is important to note that visa is required for Filipinos. They say it's one of the hardest to obtian, but in our case, we just made sure to submit complete requirements and thankfully, it worked. There are no interviews and no need to give astronomical financial statements. There's also no need to go to an agency, you can submit your requirements at the Korean embassy yourself. The requirements can be found <a href="http://embassy_philippines.mofat.go.kr/eng/as/embassy_philippines/visiting/visas/" target="_blank">here</a>. For stays of 59 days or less, visa is free.</div>
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This was a family trip of 4 during the end of winter in April 2012 and we arrived at <b>Incheon International Airport</b> close to 9 pm. Since it was already late, we only had time for dinner and weren't able to look around the airport (Airport review in Part 5). We ate at one of the local fast food outlets near the arrival hall (forgot the name, in Korean). Food was decent and fairly priced but nothing special. Afterwards we headed to the city straight to our hotel for a much needed sleep.</div>
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<u>From Incheon Airport it takes 1 hour and 20 minutes to get to the city under normal traffic. There are three options available: (a) by AREX train, cheapest, costs around 5,000 won; (b) by limousine bus, most convenient, around 10,000 won; and (c) by taxi, fastest, around 100,000 won.</u></div>
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We would be staying in the Myeongdong area (recommended for first timers) at Nana Residence and carrying 4 heavy luggage so the limousine bus was an easy choice. <u>We took the last trip scheduled 10:50 pm on Bus # 6015 bound for Myeongdong which stops at several areas and hotels. To get to Nana Residence, take bus # 6015 and get off at the last stop which is Sejong Hotel (Nana Residence is actually right at the back of Sejong Hotel). Beside it is a Ministop Convenience which leads to an alley. Turn right into the alley and walk 2 minutes until you reach the intersection. Turn right again and walk to the J & S Building which is the 3rd or 4th building you'll pass on the right hand side. Nana Residence is on the 5th to 7th floor of the J & S Building.</u></div>
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If you don't mind hauling your bags through steep stairs (most of the major stops don't have escalators) while mixing it up with local commuters then the AREX could save you some money. Taking the taxi is just crazy spending.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bus Stop outside the airport to Myeongdong</td></tr>
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<b><a href="http://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g294197-d2179387-Reviews-Nana_Residence-Seoul.html" target="_blank">Nana Residence</a></b> is not a hotel, it's a guesthouse and it was my first time in one. We booked 2 double rooms which costs around 95,000 won each per night. Reservations can only be done through their <a href="http://www.nanaresidence.com/" target="_blank">website</a>. Let me begin by saying that these are the smallest rooms I've ever seen, the bed was literally connected to the walls. There is very limited space to move around; let alone place your baggage. The toilet, sink and shower are joined in a single, tiny space so whenever you take a bath, the whole floor gets wet. Amenities are bare to the definition with only soap, shampoo and towel provided. </div>
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The saving grace for Nana is the location as it's only 3 minutes walk to the subway and airport bus, 5 minutes walk to the heart of Myeongdong and surrounded by restaurants, cafes and convenience stores. Other perks include free wifi (fastest hotel internet ever), a mini fridge, TV, all day supply of free water and daily free breakfast of juice, milk, coffee, eggs, bread and cup noodles. The staff speak limited English, but were friendly and eager to help.</div>
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To conclude, I wouldn't mind staying at Nana Residence again if I'm on a tight budget given the cheap price (based on Seoul standards) and excellent location. However, I would look for better options first or spend a little more for better comfort.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nana Residence (left, narrow entrance)</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Every shower = flooding</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Grand" Lobby</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Common kitchen / breakfast area</td></tr>
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On our first morning in Seoul, we were scheduled to meet with <b>Mrs. Kim Hye Wan</b>, a volunteer guide from the <b>Korea Tourism Organization</b>. The Korean government runs a goodwill guide service through their <a href="http://www.visitkorea.or.kr/ena/GK/GK_EN_2_7_3_1.jsp" target="_blank">website</a> wherein foreign visitors can spend a day with locals for sightseeing, travel assistance and cultural exchange. The service is free but you have to pay for the guide's travel expenses like food, admission tickets and transportation for the day. </div>
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Around 10:30 am we met Mrs Hye Wan at the entrance of Changdeokgung Palace. The <b>Changdeokgung Palace</b> is one of the five palaces located in Seoul inherited from the Joseon Dynasty. It was the second one built, a favorite of kings and currently the most well preserved among the five. There are two separate admission fees at Changdeokgung, 3,000 won for the palace and another 5,000 won to see the secret garden. <i>An <a href="http://visitkorea.or.kr/enu/SI/SI_EN_3_1_1_1.jsp?cid=264337" target="_blank">integrated admission ticket</a> to see the 5 palaces, the secret garden and the Jongmyo Shrine is offered for only 10,000 won. This is valid for a month and a cheaper option if you will visit most of these sights.</i></div>
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We started with Changdeokgung Palace itself where you have the option to go on your own or join the free tour. We opted to join the English tour which takes about an hour. It was raining and freezing in Seoul and I've never felt colder. I found it very hard to concentrate on the tour due to the weather, the guide's difficult to understand English and from the tour's brisk pace. Nonetheless, what jumped out about the palace for me were the beautiful landscape and wide grounds and pathways. Other memorable sites included the <b>Daejojeon</b>, <b>Injeongjeon Main Hall</b> and the <b>Donhwamun Gate</b>.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The entrance grounds at Changdeokgung</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">If only if it wasn't so damn cold!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Injeongjeon Main Hall</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Throne Hall</td></tr>
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After finishing with the palace tour, our socks were already soaking wet and we were shivering from head to toe. We decided however to grit it out and take the next tour, one which leads to the <b>Secret Garden</b>. Also called Biwon or Huwon, the Secret Garden used to be the resting place of Kings and entry was allowed only to a select few. Located deep inside the palace complex, getting to the secret garden requires a challenging walk (sometimes uphill). To further complicate, the cold weather definitely didn't help. On our way to the gardens we passed by the emperor's library, some gorgeous pavilions and a beautiful pond. Unfortunately, most of the trees were devoid of leaves for me to fully appreciate the place. Come to think of it, it makes no sense visiting a bare garden. Anyways, I did find beauty in the overall arrangement and peaceful atmosphere it exuded. Changdeokgung is an important reminder of the past in the middle of an ever progressing city, I just wished my visit came in spring or autumn, then maybe it would have been special.</div>
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<u>To get to Changdeokgung, take the subway to Anguk station then take Exit 3 and walk straight for 3 minutes until you reach the Palace gates which you won't miss. </u></div>
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Getting around Seoul is quite easy thanks to a very efficient and comprehensive subway system. Almost all the major sites are covered and fares usually cost around 1,500 won. They also have a <b>T-Money Card w</b>hich is a prepaid card (similar to other countries) used for trains and buses. It's convenient and gets you a little discount on fares. You can buy it at convenience stores or train stations.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Challenging climb towards the Secret Garden</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Emperor's Library</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The "Secret" Garden</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lagas...</td></tr>
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It was way past lunch time, and we were all very hungry, thankfully, Mrs. Hye Wan led us to <b>Kwa Dong Ok</b> restaurant. The menu was quite limited but that is normal in Korea where most restaurants only offer dishes they specialize in. Kwa Dong Ok makes seollongtang (Beef Bone Soup) for a living and it was easy to taste why. We all ordered seollongtang and over-sized mandoo (Korean gyoza) to go along with the unlimited free rice and kimchi. I liked the milky beef bone soup as it was rich and creamy, and perfectly compliments the rice. The Korean gyozas were also flavorful, a mixture of minced meat and fresh greens. The bill came out reasonable in the mid-range price level with our satisfaction fully met.</div>
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<u>To get to Kwa Dong Ok from the Changdeokgung entrance, turn right to Changdeokgung-gil (the street right beside it) and walk for 5 minutes until you reach the first intersection (Yongsusan restaurant landmark). Take a left to Changdeokgung-1 gil and walk for 3 minutes. The restaurant is on the right side just three blocks before the next intersection.</u></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kwa Dong Ok restaurant</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Perfect meal for the cold weather</td></tr>
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With our stomachs full, Mrs. Hye Wan led us along a mix of trendy and traditional establishments at <b>Bukchon </b>and <b>Samcheongdong </b>on our way to our next stop, the <b>National Folk Museum of Korea</b>. The museum has 2 things going for it, it's free and indoors. But on a serious note, the museum shows Korean history and daily life through artifacts, replicas and printings. There are free guided tours in English at certain hours. Inside the beautiful 3-layered main building you'll be able to learn about different periods of Korean history, famous festivals and ceremonies and gain a better understanding of Korean culture. Traditional items used by locals are also on display as well as cute caricatures of native delicacies and life-sized figurines depicting special Korean occasions.</div>
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The Folk Museum is a well organized and highly informative museum. The artifacts have English description, the displays are decent and the content honestly, are quite interesting. It also holds a fairly large number of exhibits which could possibly keep you occupied for a long time. As with most museums though, the average visitor is bound to get bored at some point but I think there are more stuff here that might hold your attention a little longer.</div>
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<u>To get here from Kwa Dong Ok restaurant, keep walking straight for 3 minutes to the direction of Bukchon-4gil until you reach the intersection. At the intersection, head middle to Bukchon-5 gil from where it's a 10 minute walk which will leads you to the Folk Museum at the end of the road.</u></div>
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<u>Alternatively, take the subway to Gyeongbukgung station exit 5 then walk straight for 3 minutes. Turn left at Samcheongdong and walk for 10 minutes until you reach the Folk Museum. </u> A further note, the Folk Museum is actually located inside the Gyeongbukgung Palace Complex so you could include that in your visit, we just chose to visit the palace at a later because my dad wasn't feeling well.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">National Folk Museum</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Traditional hanoks</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gusto ko kumuha isa</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Life sized</td></tr>
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We were supposed to tour the other palaces and the Jongmyo Shrine as well but my parents were not feeling well so we ended our trip with Mrs. Hye Wan a little early. Mrs. Hye Wan was an accommodating guide and real helpful. She gave us lots of tips and even accompanied to us in buying appropriate winter gloves. We were also able to learn more about Korean culture from her and got to know about her life and family. In return, we got to share our own culture and she got to know us. Again, we would like to thank Mrs. Kim Hye Wan for being our guide on that day in Seoul. We would also like to thank the Korea Tourism Organization for not only providing volunteer guides of great help to foreign visitors but also giving us a chance to make new local friends.</div>
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After a little rest back at the guesthouse, we were all recharged and ready to take on the famous district of <b>Myeongdong</b>. One of the main commercial areas in Seoul, Myeongdong is a can't miss place. Shopping is the name of the game with stretches of pedestrian only shopping streets, major department stores, designer brands and beauty shops in just about every corner. It covers a wide area stretching the entire length of Myeongdong station including the many side streets of Myeongdong-gil all the way up to Euljiro station. The area is always crowded and most establishments usually operate from noon up to 10 pm. Branded stores like Forever 21, Uniqlo, Ralph Lauren and LV are common sites along with edgy local fashion wear. Some of the malls to visit are <b>Lotte Department Store</b> (excellent food court and supermarket), <b>Shinsegae</b>, <b>Myeongdong Migliore, M Plaza</b> and <b>Noon Square</b>. Aside from these, cosmetic shops like T<b>he Face Shop, Etude House, Skinfood </b>and<b> Nature Republic</b> to name a few are everywhere and especially popular with young Korean ladies. These shops also give out lots of freebies to entice customers to check out their stores.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lotte Department Store</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Awesome Foodcourt / Grocery at the basement of Lotte</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Myeongdong</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Myeongdong Theater</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I'm male and I love night shopping?!</td></tr>
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An underrated part of Myeongdong is the local street food scene. When nightime falls, vendors come out with their stalls serving traditional Korean snacks and other internatonal favorites. Some of the stuff I was able to try included Korean pancake, potato dog, giant cream puff, manjoo (bun with red bean), deep fried chicken on skewers, various sausages and their version of yakitori, beef kebab, Korean pizza, soft ice cream and mochi rice cakes. I must say, most were delicious and all were surprisingly affordable (usually costs not more than 1,500 won each). </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Suki na namin to!</td></tr>
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For dinner, we headed to <b>Myeongdong Gyoja</b> one of the most popular restaurants in Seoul. It's an old restaurant that's a hit with locals and tourists alike, in fact, they actually have two branches in Myeongdong. They specialize in guksu (chopped noodle soup) and it sure was tasty but their best dish is Korean gyoza. The pork mandu we had were the best I've ever tasted, oozing with juiciness and with the flavors bursting with every bite. Each meal came with unlimited free refills of kimchi, soup and rice. Prices were slightly expensive but we didn't mind as food was authentic and got two thumbs up from all of us. I conclude by saying it's the best restaurant we've tried in Seoul and highly recommended to all travelers.</div>
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<u>To get to Myeongdong Gyoja, take the subway to Myeongdong Station Exit 8. Take a left to Myeongdong-10 gil and walk for 5 minutes. The restaurant is on the right side of the road opposite M Plaza (the one with the huge Forever 21 store).</u></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Myeongdong Gyoja</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thumbs Up</td></tr>
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Myeongdong ended up as my favorite among the places I visited in Seoul. I may have a little bias because we stayed in the area and had more time to explore it than others but the more I think about it, the more I know it's true. I remember every time we finished our day, I would always head out, walking it's streets while indulging on delicious finger food surrounded by the bright lights and constant activity. It also has everything I want: endless shopping, gastronomic overload, throbbing nightlife and a convenient base for transportation. In a way Myeongdong has that beating pulse, magnetic to the wandering traveler, pulling him back and makes him stay for the moment.</div>
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<u>To get to Myeongdong, take the subway to Myeongdong station exits 5 to 10.</u></div>
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<span style="text-align: justify;">The Day's Expenses (P) (Per Person): </span><br />
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Transportation 1,650 (Airport Bus, Subway, Taxi)</div>
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Entrance Fees 450 (Including Guide's Entrance)</div>
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Food 1,750 </div>
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<u>Shopping ? </u></div>
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Total P 3,850</div>
Arman Gohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13841824518243724166noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6036390446560410222.post-22275534129558942472013-03-23T00:37:00.001+08:002013-04-05T14:27:48.791+08:00Corregidor Sunrise, Japanese Tunnels, The Rocket, ATV, & A Hike off the Beaten Path (Part 2)<div>
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Despite lack of sleep due to tiny, four-legged uninvited
visitors, my adrenaline kept me full of energy for the early morning tour. We left the inn around 5:30 am and were taken back to Topside where the Eternal Flame was located to witness sunrise. Perched on the highest point of the island,
the views of Bataan and the bay were amazing. It was a windy morning, and the sun hadn’t
shown itself yet. Sadly, when
the sun started to come out, our views were either obstructed by dark clouds
or covered by the surrounding greens.
Nevertheless, a peaceful morning with such beautiful scenery is always a
good start to a day.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Orange dressed sky to wake up to</td></tr>
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After a while, our guide (sorry, forgot his name) led us on
a short hike on an off-road forest trail. It
was a good 15 minutes walk with a few descents on slippery terrain until we got
to one of the <b>Japanese Tunnels</b>.
Compared to the Malinta tunnel, Japanese tunnels are smaller with a low
entrance; it’s also steeper as we had to use ladders and ropes to get in and
out. The tunnels were hidden in plain
view and cleverly disguised as part of the jungle to trick the enemies. When the Japanese were losing the war, the
remaining soldiers continued fighting a lost cause with these tunnels as
bases. They sometimes made up explosive
and blew up the tunnels killing the enemies and themselves in the process. This kind of bravery and patriotism is truly
admirable no matter which side you are looking from.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Still eerie even even during daytime</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Entrance to the Japanese Tunnels</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ang taas at ang tarik papanik</td></tr>
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We returned to the Inn around 8 am and decided to head
straight for breakfast. The free
breakfast turns out to be a set meal of Corned Beef, Egg, Garlic Rice and
Coffee. Everything else on the menu was
not available, how convenient for them.
As for the food, I’ve had better canned corned beefs than this, come to
think of it, this probably was a cheap canned corned beef.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Buti na lang libre, puede na pag tiyagaan</td></tr>
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Around 9 am, we all decided to do the free activities. Up first, we tried <b>The Rocket
Zipline</b>. One ride costs P 100 pesos if
not part of the voucher. Despite the name, it is zip line for beginners as
it’s only a few feet high and moves at a leisurely pace for about 20 seconds. Truthfully, I would skip this if it wasn’t
free.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The baby rocket?</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pambata</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yes, swimming is allowed :)</td></tr>
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Afterwards, the couple decided to go for a dip on the beach,
Dan went back to the inn to rest while Ben & I went on a <b>Walking Tour</b>
which costs P 250 each. This was
actually one of the highlights of the trip.
For a good 3 hours, we were able to go anywhere we wanted to in the
island at our own pace but accompanied by a guide. To start, we
went back to the sites from yesterday which we were not able to fully
explore. I’ve always liked it better
when I can explore privately, on foot, on my own time and without a clue where
to go next.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Why bomb a cinema, why?!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Topside Open Field</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Young Officers' Barracks</td></tr>
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Satisfied with our re-visits and new photos, our guide suggested a hike to some of the more unknown sites in Corregidor. Located deep in the jungles of Topside is <b>Battery Wheeler</b>, a forgotten area that's slowly being overrun by the trees. Unlike most of the popular tourist sites, Wheeler is largely untouched and still has that rustic charm to it. Vines and leaves have wrapped themselves on guns and staircases. All around the Battery, all you see are trees. Here's a place where you can get a real sense of danger as the structure has no support railings, there are open holes on the floor and sharp metals lie around everywhere.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Let the expedition begin!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nature reclaiming the wreckage</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ganda parin tignan</td></tr>
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After what seemed like an endless march, we found ourselves at another Japanese tunnel, this was one of the more complex ones they built, as the entrance was smartly hidden, vents were used for light and oxygen and traps were placed in different parts of the tunnel. Our guide also showed us some rare animal species living inside.<br />
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Our guide shared with us that most of these tunnels haven't been cleaned up and they are still able to dig up ancient items lying around. In fact, he found an old coin which he kept as souvenir.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Watch your head!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Malalim</td></tr>
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As we delve deeper into the Japanese defense, we were able to reach a cliff which was said to be the premier jumping point for soldiers who chose to die with honor. <b>Japanese Suicide Cliffs</b> are spread out in Corregidor because for many of the soldiers, it was better to die than be captured by the enemy. I can imagine that it's a painful way to die but one where you have your dignity in tact and where you take one last exhilarating dive to your demise.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lost na si kuya</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A Japanese Suicide Cliff</td></tr>
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By this time I had already seen too many Batteries and so it was refreshing to see <b>Battery Cheney</b>, Corregidor's most authentic. As you can see from it's color, it hasn't been through any renovation, it has aged gracefully over time.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Battery Cheney</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Open crater souvenir sponsored by World War 2</td></tr>
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We passed through some other sights but my faulty memory can't fully remember the information fed by the guide so I'l just let the pictures tell the rest of the story.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Veranda which used to host a 3 inch gun (looted)</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i1272.photobucket.com/albums/y389/arma1n/Corregidor2/31_zpsfbf328ab.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://i1272.photobucket.com/albums/y389/arma1n/Corregidor2/31_zpsfbf328ab.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An Island where they kept wine and ammunition</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">May lumalangoy pa nga diyan</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bataan</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Last Battery I saw (forgot name)</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And another tunnel...</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nails on the ceiling, debris on the floor</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Heading out of Corregidor for good</td></tr>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
We finished our hike around 12:30 noon and still had a
little time to avail of our free 1 hour <b>ATV Ride</b> which would have cost P 500. Now this is more like it for thrill
seekers! These little bumpcars on
steroids move around fast, like real fast in a few seconds. Despite the mid-day scorching heat, the wind
was blowing past my face as I bounced around rocky roads and blazed through the
obstacle course. It is a fun and easy to
learn activity albeit a dangerous one.
Because these things accelerate fast and reach blinding speed, it is
easy to lose control and / or bump into large humps. Also, there is a challenging stretch in the
course with blind curves and crooked pavement where an accident is just waiting
to happen. Luckily we got through without
any injuries and with only great memories about our experience.</div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I want to buy one</td></tr>
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With just a few minutes left before the ferry arrived,
we decided to have a quick lunch near the docks at the MacArthur Café. There were items on the menu which looked
promising like the sisig and tapsilog but they told us it would take some time
to prepare. We settled for two orders of
pancit and got surprisingly large servings which were pretty cheap and tasted
alright. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pag gutom ka, lahat masarap</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">These guys made the trip so much better, thanks :)</td></tr>
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The Trip's Expenses: (P per person)<br />
<br />
Voucher 2,275 (Day Tour, Night Tour, Overnight, Morning Tour, Breakfast, Lunch, Zip, ATV)<br />
Boarding Fee 100<br />
Parking 300<br />
Malinta Tunnel 200<br />
Food <u> 500</u><br />
<br />
Total P 3,375<br />
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
I look back at my recent trip to Corregidor as mission accomplished. I was able to see all the sights I could handle while really having a proper understanding of the island's war history. It was a short trip from home, but a place that feels worlds apart from what I'm used to. </div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
Each tour served a purpose, the day tour for sightseeing, the night tour for the experience and the morning tour to cover what's been missed out. The adventure sports and beach activities offer diversion in the island ; a short break from all the geeky information.<br />
<br />
I had more fun than I expected though, I went solo but never felt alone and I have my five fellow travelers to thank for sharing the experience with me. I'm not the most sociable person in the world but swapping travel stories and engaging in random topics can also make a trip twice as good.</div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
If only Sun Cruises was more competent; it's indeed a shame as the island has so much potential for tourism. Better facilities, an aggressive promotion, opening new tours and more competitive prices would make this place one of the must-visits in the country. I mean, it's ridiculous that most of Corregidor's visitors have come and gone and haven't seen the best sights in the island. Instead what we get is a shabby operator charging exorbitant prices on a rundown inn and running half-baked tours. That's what the monopoly has done and we don't have a choice, it's either deal with them or don't go. Just sad...</div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
I leave Corregidor for a 2nd time; new memories in hand and my curiosity quenched. Now more than Vg's line, I remember the island well.</div>
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Helpful Links:<br />
<br />
<a href="http://corregidor.org/" target="_blank">Corregidor History</a><br />
<a href="http://corregidorisland.com/" target="_blank">Corregidor Island</a></div>
Arman Gohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13841824518243724166noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6036390446560410222.post-17153564934624513742013-03-23T00:37:00.000+08:002013-04-05T15:04:45.536+08:00Corregidor...Historical Day Tour, Sunset Viewing, Army Post Hospital & Night Lateral Tour (Part 1)<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Corregidor: Remnants of War & An Island of Peace</b></div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
"Take a look at what Iraq would look like in the future..." said VG the tour guide. I remember this line well; I was here 10 years ago right at the time the Iraq War was starting. Still a kid then, I had forgotten most of what I'd seen in <b>Corregidor </b>but I did vaguely remember a few things like the ruined barracks, the Japanese cemetery, an old tunnel and the eerie feel I got when it got dark.</div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
Enter the present and my travel addiction has never been stronger and I've been on the prowl for nearby weekend destinations to quench my thirst for adventure. With it's proximity to Manila, Corregidor became one of my destinations, but I wanted to fully explore the island without restrictions, a short day tour just wouldn't suffice. The problem was, only Sun Cruises offered overnight packages to Corregidor and the prices were steep. Luckily, they released a promo through <a href="https://dealgrocer.com/" target="_blank">Deal Grocer</a> and I wasted no time in getting my tickets!</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Island Museum</td></tr>
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So here's the fine print about my deal, <u>P 4,550 for two persons, inclusive of Day Tour with buffet lunch, roundtrip ferry transfers, overnight stay at a standard room, set breakfast, Night Tour, Sunrise tour, 1 ride at the zipline and 1 hour use of the ATV</u>. Now I know that not all these group-buying deals on the internet are legit, the heck, I've had my fair share of bad deals (cough..Simple Travel & Tours, ehem...Cash Cash Pinoy), but believe me when I say this, this was a GOOD deal. In fact if you check the succeeding promos from Sun Cruises, they have actually cut down on these perks.</div>
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My brother was supposed to go with me but he got so devastated by Pacquiao's loss to Marquez that he slipped into depression and backed out (joke...or not). Adding to that, everyone that could potentially replace him was already preoccupied with something else and in the end, I ended up going alone.</div>
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I arrived at the <b>Sun Cruises Terminal</b> around 7:45 am, exchanged my voucher and paid the boarding fee of P 100 or less (can't remember exactly). Departure was scheduled around 8 am but the ferry sailed 15 minutes late.</div>
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<u>To get to the Sun Cruises Terminal from Roxas Blvd, get off at the CCP and walk for 8 minutes straight past Harbor Square or ride the orange shuttle and tell the driver to drop you off at Sun Cruises Terminal. If you'll be taking the LRT, get off at Vito Cruz staion then walk to Rizal Stadium and ride the orange shuttle.</u></div>
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The Sun Cruises ferry is mid sized with two levels, airconditioned, with a couple of TVs showing a film about Corregidor. There's also a snacks counter and CR. The journey takes around 45 minutes, under smooth waters and with sweeping views of Bataan. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lower level</td></tr>
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At first glance of the island, you would never suspect that it had such a dark past, as it looks sleepy, laid back and calm. Upon arrival, we were organized into groups and placed in open-air buses called "tramvia". Our guide for the day was Uncle Bob, one of the oldest and longest serving guides in Corregidor. While I respect Uncle Bob for his length of tenure, sadly, I didn't like our experience with him. It was like listening to an old recording from a man who was uninspired, bored and just repeating the same stuff every day without passion. He didn't engage his audience, acted a little grumpy and was always in a rush. I know sometimes it happens to all of us where we're just like robots going through the motions, and it was especially true with him but a guide's performance has an effect on people's experiences.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I'm back!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Tramvia</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Uncle Bob: Selling jokes and selling drinks</td></tr>
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Our first stop was the <b>Malinta Tunnel</b>, a famous fortress Filipinos and Americans used during the Japanese bombings. Also called tunnel full of leeches, Malinta was used as a shelter, hospital, storage and command post of the Filipinos and Allied Forces. It was a refuge where tenants included civilians, soldiers, nurses, President Quezon, General MacArthur and later on, suicidal Japanese troops. Countless lives were lost here under total darkness, limited oxygen and scarce resources.</div>
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Inside the tunnel is a lights & sounds show reliving the events during the war. We all had to pay a separate fee of P 200 otherwise, you can't enter the tunnel. The show was underwhelming & pales in comparison especially with today's special effects. Access inside the tunnel are limited as you are not allowed to explore the more interesting lateral tunnels. We only got to see the main tunnel, walking a straight line from end to end.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yeah I know, phone's camera sucks!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Philippine Flag, front & center as it should be</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i1272.photobucket.com/albums/y389/arma1n/Davao1/Davao2/Davao3/Corregidor/14_zps3bc6ecff.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://i1272.photobucket.com/albums/y389/arma1n/Davao1/Davao2/Davao3/Corregidor/14_zps3bc6ecff.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dito ko sana gusto maglakad</td></tr>
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Our next stop took us to two prominent figures with contrasting legacies after the war. Sitting near the coastal shores at the foot of the island is a <b>statue of General Douglas MacArthur</b>, the iconic leader of the forces during World War II. It's a fitting tribute and a popular photo-op spot among tourists.</div>
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A short walk nearby brings you to a <b>monument of General Jonathan Wainright</b>, the unsung hero of Corregidor. When MacArthur fled for Australia, Wainright was the man left in charge to carry the fight against the Japanese and prolong our troops' last stand. He also prevented more deaths by sacrificing himself and being held captive, one of the highest profiled Prisoner of War. He doesn't get enough credit from historical books, in fact I only found out about him in Corregidor, yet what he did equaled the much more famous MacArthur if not greater.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i1272.photobucket.com/albums/y389/arma1n/Davao1/Davao2/Davao3/Corregidor/16_zpsb83b679d.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://i1272.photobucket.com/albums/y389/arma1n/Davao1/Davao2/Davao3/Corregidor/16_zpsb83b679d.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Where's Wainright's statue?</td></tr>
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Around 11 am, we were dropped off at Corregidor Inn where the restaurant <b>La Playa</b> was located for our buffet lunch. The spread consisted of rice, four viands (1 Chicken, 1 Pork, 1 Veggy, 1 Noodles), a soup and salad station and a couple of desserts. You also get a glass of gulaman and have an hour to eat. The food can be described as very ordinary, think more of a carenderia eat-all-you-can than a restaurant buffet.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i1272.photobucket.com/albums/y389/arma1n/Davao1/Davao2/Davao3/Corregidor/18_zps24949c4e.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://i1272.photobucket.com/albums/y389/arma1n/Davao1/Davao2/Davao3/Corregidor/18_zps24949c4e.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">La Disaster</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Carinderia Buffet is more like it</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i1272.photobucket.com/albums/y389/arma1n/Davao1/Davao2/Davao3/Corregidor/20_zps90055b75.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://i1272.photobucket.com/albums/y389/arma1n/Davao1/Davao2/Davao3/Corregidor/20_zps90055b75.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Soup and salads</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i1272.photobucket.com/albums/y389/arma1n/Davao1/Davao2/Davao3/Corregidor/21_zps90db38e6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://i1272.photobucket.com/albums/y389/arma1n/Davao1/Davao2/Davao3/Corregidor/21_zps90db38e6.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pang himagas</td></tr>
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After filling up, we resumed our tour and headed to the <b>Middleside Barracks</b> or at least what remains of it. The barracks used to be occupied by low ranking officers and other enlisted men. It was bombed to submission and what's left are hollow pillars and a bare facade. Some parts of the barracks seem to be on the verge of collapse and are off limits. Looking at the barracks, I felt a sense of awe with such an intimidating structure and disappointment at what had been lost at the same time.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i1272.photobucket.com/albums/y389/arma1n/Davao1/Davao2/Davao3/Corregidor/22_zpse70ce9f6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://i1272.photobucket.com/albums/y389/arma1n/Davao1/Davao2/Davao3/Corregidor/22_zpse70ce9f6.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">War art</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">What's left of the Middleside Barracks</td></tr>
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Moving on, we set foot on <b>Battery Way, </b>one of the many gun emplacements scattered in the island. It is famous for its 4 mortars used in defense. Primarily targeted against enemy warships, these mortars were able to reach land targets as far as Bataan. Among the batteries I've seen in Corregidor, these are in best condition. It is a staple on every trip to Corregidor.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i1272.photobucket.com/albums/y389/arma1n/Davao1/Davao2/Davao3/Corregidor/24_zps30884133.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://i1272.photobucket.com/albums/y389/arma1n/Davao1/Davao2/Davao3/Corregidor/24_zps30884133.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Battery Way: Parang set ng action movie</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i1272.photobucket.com/albums/y389/arma1n/Davao1/Davao2/Davao3/Corregidor/25_zps2069fb4b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://i1272.photobucket.com/albums/y389/arma1n/Davao1/Davao2/Davao3/Corregidor/25_zps2069fb4b.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Target Acquired</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i1272.photobucket.com/albums/y389/arma1n/Davao1/Davao2/Davao3/Corregidor/26_zps7c5273cc.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://i1272.photobucket.com/albums/y389/arma1n/Davao1/Davao2/Davao3/Corregidor/26_zps7c5273cc.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Where they load the missiles</td></tr>
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Next stop was <b>Battery Hearn</b>, known for being the longest gun in Corregidor. It wasn't very useful during the war for it's faulty position, but has now found it's true calling as a magnet for snap hungry visitors. It's particularly popular with Japanese tourists as it's the same battery where their soldiers had the Banzai pose taken after invading the island.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i1272.photobucket.com/albums/y389/arma1n/Davao1/Davao2/Davao3/Corregidor/27_zpsb6621a9f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://i1272.photobucket.com/albums/y389/arma1n/Davao1/Davao2/Davao3/Corregidor/27_zpsb6621a9f.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Battery Hearn: All Bark No Bite, hehe</td></tr>
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Located uphill, is the area called <b>Topside</b>, the most advanced and developed place back then. It includes the Army Headquarters, the high ranking officials barracks, Cine Corregidor, sports facilities, a bank and a major gun storage among others. <br />
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A famous spot here in Topside is the <b>Mile Long Barracks</b>. Here is where you'll see a massive scale of destruction. It used to be the quarters of high ranking soldiers which stretched almost half a mile long until it was primarily targeted and impaled. These days the barracks are filled with thousands of bullet holes, collapsed staircases and giant piles of rubble. One harsh reality of war that the island imparts on all of it's visitors and is most evident here is that violence always brings so much needless waste on life and property.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Not really a mile long!</td></tr>
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Also located on Topside are some old and new attractions. First is the <b>Old Spanish Lighthouse</b>, where a climb to the top is rewarded with a 360 view of the entire island, Manila Bay, Bataan and my home province of Cavite. At the foot of the lighthouse are souvenir shops and snack outlets.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Restored but still beautiful</td></tr>
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One of the newer built sites is the <b>Pacific War Memorial.</b> It was constructed to honor all the Filipinos and Americans who participated during the war. There's a statue of Filipino and American soldier side by side, which has become one of the most popular images coming out of Corregidor. A beautiful altar was also erected carrying a touching message.</div>
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Part of the area is a museum where old pictures, relics and memorabilia are displayed relating to Corregidor. It would have been nice to know more about history and there were some interesting artifacts house inside but the tour only allotted a few minutes and all I could do was a quick browse.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">What the barracks used to look</td></tr>
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At the back of the Pacific War Memorial is the <b>Eternal Flame</b>, an all steel structure which symbolizes the fight for freedom. It's purpose is two-fold: first to commemorate those who fought for the people and second to serve as a reminder for future generations to preserve our independence. It's positioned at the end of Topside from where you can actually see the "tail" of the island below.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mukha bang apoy? Weh?</td></tr>
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Leaving Topside, we headed to<b> Battery Crockett</b>. Perched in a strategic location which is not easily accesible, the disappearing guns of Battery Crockett would have been major weapons. The guns could be lowered to the ground from an elevated platform after firing. Unfortunately, it was positioned the wrong way which rendered it useless during the war, so, so much for that.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sarap siguro mag laro ng taguan dito!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Parang amusement park ride</td></tr>
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For a place where they were clearly shown as the antagonists, it was a pleasant surprise to find out that there was a place called the <b>Japanese Garden of Peace</b> in Corregidor. I believe that the Japanese soldiers deserve to be given proper respect. During times of war, nobody is really right or wrong, everyone's just obeying orders and being patriotic, it just happened that there are always two opposite sides.</div>
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Inside the garden is a cemetery for Japanese soldiers, a beautiful landscaped garden and a Buddhist statue of Kannon. It's a place close to the heart of Japanese tourists but rarely visited by Americans. Interestingly, these two actually have different sets of tours and are never joined together in large groups.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Japs remember their fallen comrades</td></tr>
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A fitting last stop to the day tour is the <b>Filipino Heroes Memorial</b>, located at the tail part of the island. A tribute to Filipino heroism over time, the great events in Philippine history are told through murals surrounding a statue of a Filipino guerrilla and another statue of a sombrero on top of a gun. There's also a mini museum</div>
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and several other statues.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Filipino Heroes Memorial</td></tr>
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It was only 2:30 pm but our day tour was already over and most of the tourists had already left with the ferry. There were only 5 guests including me who would stay overnight. We were whisked off to <b>Corregidor Inn</b>, debriefed of our upcoming activities and led to our rooms.</div>
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This is about to get real ugly in a bit, starting now. Corregidor Inn is one of the <i>worst </i>accommodation I've ever stayed at! The rooms are dark, most of the furniture are broken, amenities are lacking and it really looks like it hasn't been renovated since World War 2. The aircon is cool but it's pointed straight at the bed which hits you right in the face and you can't adjust it. The bathroom is an absolute hell, I could forgive the faulty shower and the rundown toilet, but cockroaches everywhere, anytime of the day?, come on! I didn't get a good night sleep, not only because of the aircon but mainly because I was awaken around 3 am by a cockroach on top of my face!</div>
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I really can't recommend Corregidor Inn, but you don't have many choices. It's one of only two places to stay in the the island. The other option is <b>MacArthur's Lodge</b>, a dormitory managed by the people at MacArthur Cafe, and it's in worst shape. You'll just have to suck it up, or get one of their suites which is expensive.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i1272.photobucket.com/albums/y389/arma1n/Davao1/Davao2/Davao3/Corregidor/48_zps37ba67dc.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://i1272.photobucket.com/albums/y389/arma1n/Davao1/Davao2/Davao3/Corregidor/48_zps37ba67dc.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Corregidor Inn</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Awful</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ligo? Di bale na lang...</td></tr>
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Because I still had some time before the next tour, I was able to wander around the island independently. I had a quick snack at <b>MacArthur Cafe</b>, and it was bad but at least reasonably priced compared to La Playa. As I was walking alone near the edges of the dock, I couldn't believe that only a few hours ago the place packed by people was now a ghost town. I had the island all to myself and already, this made the extra stay worth it.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Panahon pa to ni MacArthur</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Corregidor Church</td></tr>
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By 5:30 pm, it was now time for our night tour. I was accompanied by 4 other guests Dan, Ben, Mark and Lanie (hope I got their names right). Our tour guide this time was Kuya Ed, another veteran but he was very knowledgeable, friendly and made our experience fun.</div>
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The shuttle led us to <b>Battery Grubbs</b> not only to see its disappearing guns but also to watch the sunset. Because it sits on top of a cliff, the views over the Manila Bay are fantastic. We were given time to just lay still and watch the sun slowly fade away while the waves crashing below us made the only sound.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In these parts of the world, you can afford to do nothing. Just admire</td></tr>
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By now it was getting dark as our car passed through the old tram rail tracks and into willowy trees and thick shrubs. It was now time to know if there was any truth to Corregidor's alleged ghost stories. We found ourselves at the <b>Old Army Post Hospital</b>. When viewed from the top, a cross shape is formed but this didn't prevent the invaders from bombing this structure to oblivion. Kuya Ed showed us around its interiors from the emergency room all the way to the morgue. He also confirmed the existence of the Jabidah Massacre, where a group of Muslims, commissioned by then President Marcos who were supposed to fight in Sabah were executed here in Corregidor by the military due to a change of heart.</div>
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Admittedly, I didn't see any ghost, but I didn't dare wander off alone without the group either. There was a strange creepiness in this place where you actually won't sense supernatural forces at work but given its tragic history, the pitch black isolation and being overrun by century old trees, you still wouldn't wish to spend the night here.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">From a place to heal to a place to kill</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dami siguro nagmumulto dito</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Overnight Anyone?</td></tr>
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The last and most interesting part of our tour was the <b>Night Lateral Tour at Malinta Tunnel</b>. It's a special privilege afforded only to overnight guests where other parts of the tunnel like the 1,000 bed hospital ward and the suicide bombing sights are explored. Off limit sights were also explored albeit with a little caution. We were given flashlights and required to wear hard hats as our trek led us to low and muddy sections which had no electricity. Some of the laterals haven't been cleaned up and I was able to see bones (human?) and other old unearthed objects lying around. I was also able to spot some beautiful rock formations throughout the tunnel. The guide also took us to Quezon and MacArthur's quarters and the escape route they took to get to Australia.</div>
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On our last stop, we were led to an intact section of the tunnels and asked to turn off our flashlights. We were asked to walk to the end point of the tunnel without any light, without any assistance. This was the most memorable part of the night tour. It allows you to experience, even for just a few minutes, how the soldiers used to live in total darkness, bombed daily and barely getting air. It's a scary feeling, not knowing what you might touch or run into, and in a way, being blind also numbs your other senses. I came out of the tunnel much more satisfied with this tour, it's more personal and interactive, and a must do for hardcore travelers.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Miner ang peg?!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The troops underground office</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This way to Australia</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">When the lights go out that's when it gets fun!</td></tr>
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After getting back to the hotel, I had a forgettable and overpriced dinner at La Playa but still got to enjoy the night thanks to Dan & Ben. Meeting new people is one of the best things about travel and these guys were awesome company.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Adobo without character</td></tr>
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<br />Arman Gohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13841824518243724166noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6036390446560410222.post-14849105882123567612012-12-22T23:12:00.003+08:002013-01-04T16:54:01.823+08:00Mall Madness, Manga Dua, Soekarno-Hatta Airport, Terima Kasih Indonesia! (Day 3)<div style="text-align: justify;">
I only had a few hours left in Indonesia so I decided to check-out early and get a head start on the day. Fittingly, the first mall I visited was <b>Sarinah Department Store</b>, the oldest mall in Jakarta. Despite being a little long in the tooth, Sarinah is still a favorite among Indonesian mall goers. It is a good place to buy souvenirs as there are floors dedicated to goods like batik, handicrafts and jewelry from all parts of the country. The prices are a bit high compared to street vendors but the products sold in Sarinah are of better quality and guaranteed authentic. There's also also a Mcdonalds & Chilis restaurant if you're hungry. Across the street is a Lotus Department Store selling clothes and footwear.</div>
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<u>To get here, take the BRT to the Sarinah stop, the mall is conveniently linked to the station. From here, the bigger malls are an easy 7 minute walk away.</u></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sarinah Mall</td></tr>
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Since I couldn't get enough of Grand Indonesia, I returned to have lunch at a Japanese restaurant that caught my eye the day before, <b>Tairyo</b>. I tried their <b>lunch buffet</b> which is a bargain at IDR 129,000. You select from a menu offering an assortment of sushis, tempura, soba, yakiniku, and fried rice which a chef then cooks right in front of you serving the food hot and fresh. Drinks are also included and there's a generous selection which includes fresh fruit shakes, sodas, ice cream shakes and beers. To cap it off, you have several dessert choices like fruits, cakes and sweet pastries.</div>
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If only every buffet was like this. Top quality fresh food, a wide array of dishes, excellent staff service and reasonable prices, I was living the dream! I had a couple of fruit shakes, a couple of milkshakes, a fruit juice and coffee to go along with shrimp tempura, Japanese fried rice, various other seafood, and countless meat. I was so full after finishing, that I was seriously considering not eating until the next day! I'm a big fan of buffets and though there are bigger buffets that serve better tasting food, Tairyo offers one of the best value for money, maybe even the best among them all.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ayos dito, puedeng ulit-ulitin</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Good job chef, keep em coming!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Finish strong!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">For that special someone back home, bring home this expensive coffee from here</td></tr>
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Barely being able to walk with a bulging stomach, I went to south of Jakarta where a couple of malls were located starting with the <b>FX Lifestyle Center</b> in Sudirman. A mall mainly catered to the middle class, FX's claim to fame is the <b>Atmosfear</b>, the world's longest & fastest indoor dry slider stretching from the ground floor to the 7th floor. Viewed from the top floor, the slide is an intimidating sight with its steep plunges and glass bottom. It's an adrenaline inducing descent where you have no control of your fall. It only takes a few seconds from the top to reach the ground. A single ride would set you back for a whopping IDR 100,000.</div>
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Aside from the Atmosfear, the mall also has the usual fashion shops, food court and dinning establishments. Above the shopping mall, is an apartment building and the Harris Hotel.</div>
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The only thing that's worth a visit here is the giant slide. The shops are inferior to those in the bigger malls, but on the other hand, you'll have a peaceful shopping experience as there are relatively few shoppers here.</div>
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<u>To get here, ride the BRT Line 1 to Gelora Bung Karno. The mall is right beside the BRT station.</u></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Long queues at the BRT during rush hour</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This snake is a lot scarier in the flesh</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sports complex besides FX Mall</td></tr>
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After a long walk, I finally reached my next destination, the posh and brand new mall called <b>Senayan City</b>. It is a high-end shopping mall with many exclusive brands, a Sogo department store, Debenhams, Best Denki, a cinema, a supermarket and food outlets that would have looked appealing had I not been too full. A tower occupied by SCTV, a Sofitel and a residential building can also be found in Senayan City.</div>
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I was running out of time so I only saw a little of Senayan City. From my brief time spent there, I noticed a spacious, extravagant mall with a lot of interesting stores to check out. The mall shows promise and I will definitely allot more time if I ever return.</div>
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<u>To get here upon exiting the FX Mall at Jalan Sudirman, turn right and walk for 10 minutes until you reach the Youth Spirit monument at the roundabout. At the roundabout, turn right again to Jalan Asia Africa where you'll already see Senayan City and reach it within 3 minutes.</u></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Senayan City</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bakit kahit san bansa ako pumunta may Sogo?</td></tr>
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I had already bought fancy souvenirs and goodies, but now it was time to go to Jakarta's bargain center and cheap shopping haven at <b>Mangga Dua</b>. Jalan Mangga Dua is one of the most crowded areas in Jakarta with at least six shopping malls by my count selling both wholesale and retail with emphasis on clothes and electronics. It's a busy, dirty and populated area where traffic is endless, where people walk in all directions and where you'll be pushing, shoving and dodging your way past everyone and everything. Be alert and on your wits at all times.</div>
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I started with <b>Mangga Dua Square</b> where I was able to buy cheap Indonesian t-shirts to bring home. Most of the stalls here seem to be selling the same items so I just looked around, inquired and haggled my way to the lowest offers. Entire floors are devoted to fashion wear with a few Indonesian antique shops spread out. There's also a food court in the basement and some fast food restaurants near the entrances.</div>
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Next, I crossed the street to <b>WTC Mangga Dua</b> one of the more complete and orderly (sort of) looking shopping centers in the area. Apart from selling the items available at Mangga Dua Square, I also saw stalls with electronic devices, pirated cds and video games. There's also more product variety here and you can even choose which quality of cheap t-shirt to buy!</div>
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Lastly, I went to <b>Pasar Pagi Mangga Dua</b>. This is where you'll feel SEA's most populous nation in full effect. With stalls just inches apart from each other and seemingly endless number of people packed like sardines, I could hardly move inside. If you can stand the heat, tight spaces and slow moving traffic, then Pasar Pagi is the place to find fake designer bags, native handicrafts, cheap accessories and other fashion items which cost almost free!</div>
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<u>To get to Mangga Dua, take the BRT Line 1 to Harmoni Sentral then switch to Line 2 to Senen. Switch again, this time to Line 5 to Mangga Dua Square station. This will drop you off in front of the many malls of Mangga Dua.</u></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mangga Dua Square</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">What a Blue Bird Taxi should look </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pasar Pagi: Para sa mga mahilig sa Divisoria, magsasawa kayo dito</td></tr>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-F7soE4IwhT0/UGlgoB-8pYI/AAAAAAAACkM/dWeByJkUduU/s1600/28.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-F7soE4IwhT0/UGlgoB-8pYI/AAAAAAAACkM/dWeByJkUduU/s640/28.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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For my last meal in Indonesia, I walked from my hotel to nearby <b>Samarra Restaurant</b>. It's a pricey, dinning place / bar serving Indonesian and Middle-Eastern cuisine. The first floor is a hangout spot while dinners are hosted in the second floor. The place is dark and quiet, filled with cool ornaments and Islamic decorations. I was the only one eating at the time, and it even felt a little spooky when the waiter left as there was no people around.</div>
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I didn't know what got into me but I ordered a Lebanese dish which I wasn't really familiar with and the result was a disaster. It was like chicken & veggies corned beef with a taste that my palate strongly rejected. I was only able to finish 1/4 of the dish before giving up, and leaving the restaurant, half embarased by my ignorance.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lonely Planet got this wrong, not recommended</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">WTF?</td></tr>
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I reached <b>Soekarno-Hatta Airport,</b> Terminal 2 earlier than expected because luckily, I didn't encounter any traffic. Although I've heard horror stories about how corrupt customs and airport officials are in Indonesia, I didn't encounter any problems. I paid the international departure tax of IDR 150,000 at the check-in counter then cleared the immigration smoothly. Having a lot more free time, I was able to wander a bit.</div>
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Named after it's famous leader Soekarno and then Vice President Hatta, the airport located in Cengkareng, has 3 terminals one which is used by local airlines (Lion, Batavia) one for international airlines (PAL, CEB) and one for low cost domestic airlines (Air Asia). It's an old airport, but one that's well maintained, and constantly under renovation. From the outside, it's easy to admire the structure which's design was inspired by a traditional Javanese house. They've also incorporated Indonesian elements to the airport's interiors and despite being a very busy airport, it's one of the most orderly and efficient ones I've been to. There are two hotels inside the airport and the Tune Hotels LCCT is nearby for those on a budget. Sleeping on the airport benches seem relatively safe as I saw a lot of passengers do it, if a bit uncomfortable. Other facilities include several fast food restaurants, lounges, money changers and shopping stores. The management is already baring plans of expansion and improvement. Terminal 4 is about to open up and a rail connecting the airport to the city is being planned.</div>
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<u>To get to the airport, take a taxi to Gambir Station, then switch to a Damri Bus which goes straight into the airport for IDR 20,000.</u> Travel time takes around 60 minutes or so under moderate traffic. The bus operates from 4 am to 7 pm only, so if you go past that, you have to take the taxi.<br />
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If you are traveling to Soekarno-Hatta Airport from outside Jakarta (i.e. Bogor, Bandung), you may consider arranging a private / direct car transfer at very affordable rates with <a href="http://www.jakartaairporttransfer.com/" target="_blank"><b>Jakarta Airport Transfer</b></a>.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Inside Terminal 2</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Last minute shopping</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I hate goodbyes</td></tr>
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<span style="text-align: justify;">The Day's Expenses (P): </span><br />
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Transportation 900</div>
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Departure Tax 700<br />
Food 1,000 </div>
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<u>Shopping ? </u></div>
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Total P 2,600<br />
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I've now reached the end of my trip in Indonesia. I started out with the wrong impressions, but as I've come to know the country for real, I've seen many beautiful sights and a rich & vibrant culture. The temples of Prambanan and Borobudur are national treasures, both inspiring and spectacular. The cities of Jakarta and Yogyakarta are a contrast with the former being a loud, modern, populated city of rich and poor dominated by money-making sky scrappers while the latter is a throwback of old houses and walled cities where tradition is still alive and the outside world comes to a standstill.</div>
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These are people who are no different from me and who I have more in common with, which only being here makes me realize. Just like them, my people and I can relate to the feeling of being much maligned, prejudged and being looked down upon. Most people from the outside can't see the good traits and values that these people possess like hospitality, respectfulness, sacrifice and contentment with life, but I did, and you will too if you interact with them.</div>
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I will remember my experiences: going solo for the first time, losing my luggage, boarding the wrong train, taking my first overnight sleeper train, barely squeezing in a packed BRT, seeing Borobudur & Prambanan for the first time, eating Gudeg and meeting a lot of interesting people along the way. None of these would have been possible if not for that random, unexplainable moment in front of my computer, which became one of the best decisions in my life.</div>
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This concludes my Indonesia blog series, til next time. I'l be waiting for your comments. Salamat.</div>
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Helpful Links:<br />
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<a href="http://wikitravel.org/en/Yogyakarta" target="_blank">Wikitravel Yogyakarta</a><br />
<a href="http://wikitravel.org/en/Jakarta" target="_blank">Wikitravel Jakarta</a>Arman Gohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13841824518243724166noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6036390446560410222.post-59074998404957519232012-12-22T23:11:00.002+08:002013-01-04T16:40:34.434+08:00Jakarta...Monas, Kota, the Business District & Shopping Malls (Day 2)<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Jakarta: A Society of Extreme Contrast and a City on the Rise</b><br />
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<i>"Now where has it been?</i></div>
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<i>I mean the good old wild days</i></div>
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<i>...Forward....</i></div>
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<i>...There something in the air..."</i></div>
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<i>Pogo by Digitalism</i></div>
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For some reason, this song was stuck in my head throughout my entire stay in Indonesia. The Big Durian, as <b>Jakarta </b>is fondly called, isn't a popular tourist destination, not even to the locals, but I was here to give it a shot and try to find reasons for you guys to visit. A place I like to call the Muslim Manila, it is infamous for traffic, over-population, high pollution levels, corruption and making international headlines for all the wrong reasons. But like Manila, the shopping malls are first rate and if you muster up enough courage to walk it's historic streets and seldom visited tourist sights, you just might enjoy your trip, like I did!</div>
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Despite the freezing aircon in the train, I managed to get a good sleep and woke up an hour before we reached Jakarta. The train stopped at <b>Gambir Station</b>, Jakarta's main rail terminal located in the city center; an adequate fully functioning transportation hub connecting Jakarta to all of Indonesia's major provinces. It has shops & restaurants as well as reliable transportation options to wherever you're going in Jakarta in the form of <b>Blue Bird Taxis</b>. Taxi drivers in the city have a bad reputation but one company (Blue Bird) has been well recommended by locals and previous visitors as honest and reputable. I've stuck to taking Blue Bird Taxis during my stay in Jakarta and I can tell from experience that their drivers use the meter, take you to anywhere you want to go without refusing and are courteous and professional despite difficulties in communication. <br />
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<u>From Gambir station to your hotel, your best bet is to hail a Blue Bird cab depositing passengers in the station. Don't worry there's a lot of them in Jakarta and trips to anywhere around the city won't take more than 30 minutes (normal traffic) and won't cost you more than IDR 50,000.</u> There's also a Damri bus from Gambir Station which goes directly to the airport for IDR 20,000, leaving every 15-30 minutes.<br />
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For travelers looking for a more comfortable option, you may pre-arrange a private car transfer with <b><a href="http://www.jakartaairporttransfer.com/" target="_blank">Jakarta Airport Transfer</a>.</b></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Business class on the sleeper train</td></tr>
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For my stay in Jakarta, I chose <a href="http://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g294229-d2231967-Reviews-MaxOneHotel_Sabang-Jakarta_Java.html" target="_blank">MaxOne Hotel Sabang</a>, a basic but trendy hotel, costing only IDR 420,000 per night. The standard room is small but new, wifi is free, and the bathroom is clean. As for ammenties, only soap and shampoo are provided. Service is good although breakfast is not included. There is a coffee shop and a convenience store inside the hotel. The hotel is located in Sabang which is behind the main street (Thamrin) but is only a 3 minute walk to the BRT Line 1 Bank Indonesia Station, 10 minutes walk to the Monas and 10 minutes walk to the shopping malls in the opposite direction. For the price, it's good value for money and I would recommend it to budget travelers who want to be in a convenient location. If money isn't a problem for you, the <b>Kempinski Hotel</b> has the best location linked to the malls and the BRT. </div>
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I got to the hotel early and was told to return for check-in around 2 pm. They kept my luggage while I started Day 1 in Jakarta.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Maxone Hotel Sabang</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The trendy reception area</td></tr>
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The first place I checked out was the National Monument, also called the <b>Monas</b>. It is Jakarta's most famous landmark, housed right in the middle of <b>Merdeka Square</b>, a public park in the middle of the city. The Monas symbolizes Indonesia's fight for independence, an obelisk supported by a square platform with a golden flame at the peak of the structure. Inside the Monas is a museum about Indonesian history with admissions costing IDR 2,000. You could also climb the top of the structure for a 360 view of the city as there's an observatory which costs IDR 7,500.</div>
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The Monas and Merdeka Square remind me of Luneta Park in Manila, and how it's a source of pride for it's people and a gathering place on weekends and special occasions. During my visit, there was a huge Muslim religious event and people were out in numbers throughout the area. Scattered around Merdeka Square are other sights that are snap worthy like the Presidential Palace (Outside only), Mesjid Istiqlal, Jakarta Cathedral and the National Museum.</div>
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I just walked from my hotel to the Monas, but to explore the city more conveniently, you should ride the BRT (Bus Rapid Transit) which is also called <b>Trans Jakarta</b>. Like the one in Jogja, it functions like an MRT, stopping only at elevated makeshift stations and running on special bus lanes. It's your best option in exploring the city economically and also take part in a daily local activity. I think it's a brilliant system, it's a cheap, safe, traffic proof and tourist friendly commuting solution which stops at the major sights in Jakarta. I'm actually quite envious and would really like to have this in my country!</div>
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<u>To get to the Monas, take the BRT Line 1 to Monas station.</u> Fares are at a flat rate of IDR 3,500.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bank Indonesia Station of the BRT</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Inside the Trans Jakarta bus</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">MONAS: Soekarno's last erection!</td></tr>
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As Jakarta is steaming hot during the mornings, I decided to go inside the nearby <b>National Museum of Indonesia.</b> It's a fairly standard museum of multiple floors and several new annexes. Entrance for foreigners cost IDR 10,000. It starts from prehistoric artifacts then tells the story of Indonesian civilization up to the present. Other levels house ceramic collections, local treasures, and stone sculptures.</div>
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History buffs will surely spend hours in this place but casual people like me would probably lose attention in 30 minutes or less and only remember the really special stuff. Then again, I'd still recommend a visit if only for a basic understanding of Indonesian history and it's just beside the Monas, so it's conveniently close.</div>
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<u>To get here, go back to the BRT Monas Staion, it's just across the road from there.</u></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The National Museum</td></tr>
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Moving on, I now headed to the district of <b>Kota</b>, also known as Old Batavia. The historic center of Jakarta is an unchanged colonial beauty with preserved Dutch buildings, a pedestrian only city square and old street signs and flags everywhere. Among the sights to check out include: the Jakarta History Museum, Museum Wayang (Puppet), the Arts and Ceramics Museum, the Old Jakartakota Station, several Bank museums and the human activity at Fatahillah Sqaure. I had planned to visit each of the museums during my visit, but to my luck, they were all closed as Indonesia was supposedly observing a holiday or something on this day. It's a pity because I've heard great reviews about the puppet museum and I really wanted to see them all.</div>
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I was pleasantly surprised to discover that a place full of tradition and heritage existed in Jakarta. Old Batavia is a living museum with classic buildings everywhere you look, where street side merchants sell amulets and string puppets and where food vendors entice you with local street food. I finally got to see a side of Jakarta that not a lot of people know about, a place where kids playfully roam in bikes, where street performers dazzle a crowd, and where foreigners are rarely to be seen.</div>
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<u>To get here, take the BRT Line 1 to Kota, the bus stop is just across the Mandiri Museum. Most of the sights are found surrounding Fatahillah Square which is an easy two minute walk straight in a pedestrian only walkway from the BRT station.</u></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The old railway station</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jakarta History Museum</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Puppet Museum, sayang talaga sarado :(</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cafe Batavia on the left and my ancestors' house on the right :wink:</td></tr>
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For lunch, I decided to eat at <b>Cafe Batavia</b>, a historic landmark on its own. Located in one of the oldest structures in Kota, this beautiful piece of Dutch architecture is one of the most famous and priciest places to eat in Jakarta. The ground floor is darkly lit and atmospheric; here is where most of the coffee and alcohol drinkers hangout. The interior design and furniture helps in transporting you back into Cafe Batavia's glory days and it's easy to imagine how the Dutch used to flock such an elegant place. Moving up an old, wide staircase, I saw old portraits hanging on the walls which kinda made me feel nostalgic. The second floor holds the perfect setting for dinning as you can sit in a balcony overlooking the busy square. The wooden floors, old chandeliers and high windows also add up to the experience.</div>
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The menu boasted of fine Indonesian and international cuisine; I chose the <b>Nasi Goreng Special</b>, one of their best-sellers. It's the most expensive Nasi Goreng I had in the country but also the most delicious! The fried rice was tasty, with choice ingredients and could stand as a meal on its own but was also complimented with satay and chicken. A visit to Cafe Batavia is a must, even for just a sip of coffee if you don't wish to spend a lot of money dining. </div>
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<u>Cafe Batavia is located across the Jakarta History Museum in Fatahillah Square, you won't miss it.</u></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2TDXnW-jtnI/UGqO1Dr8fiI/AAAAAAAACp4/jLiZeMAF9bU/s1600/29.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2TDXnW-jtnI/UGqO1Dr8fiI/AAAAAAAACp4/jLiZeMAF9bU/s640/29.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ground level of Cafe Batavia</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Old school is cool!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My best meal in Jakarta</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">San kaya lolo ng lolo ko dito?</td></tr>
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After getting back to the hotel and taking a quick rest, I decided to spend the rest of the day checking out the financial district and the city's shopping malls. Although I've seen areas in Jakarta mired in poverty, walking around the central business district along the stretch of <b>Jalan Thamrin</b> shows a surprisingly developed and progressive side to the city. I passed by modern buildings, opulent hotels and glitzy shopping malls in a wide, clean and safe-looking street. It's an area which I wouldn't have expected Jakarta to have. Now, I understand how they're Southeast Asia's largest economy, this is the place where most of the wealth has gone.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jalan Thamrin on a Sunday</td></tr>
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The first mall I checked out was the high end shopping center, <b>Plaza Indonesia</b>. A popular mall among the Indonesian elite, Plaza Indonesia has many notable tenants like Louis Vitton, Gucci, Cartier and Jimmy Choo. A supermarket is available, as well as a food court and there are many restaurants to choose from. It's a large complex with an office tower to boot and is connected to the Grand Hyatt Hotel. There's also the <b>EX Mall Annex</b>, an extension of Plaza Indonesia which is also filled with upscale shops catered to teens and kids and doubles as a popular nightspot.</div>
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Plaza Indonesia is a decent mall and there are lots of shops that will keep you occupied; it has everything you expect a mall to have. It's a little uninspired and probably needing some reinvention but worth a look if you're ever ever going shopping.</div>
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<u>To get here, take the BRT to Bundaran Hotel Indonesia. The stop is right in front of the mall.</u></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Plaza Indonesia's EX Mall</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Plaza Indonesia: Will give a lot of malls a run for their money</td></tr>
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From Plaza Indonesia, I crossed the street to one of the best malls in Asia, <b>Grand Indonesia</b>. One of the largest shopping malls I have ever been to, this shopping town has two main buildings of 8 floors occupied by the most well known international and Indonesian brands. Along the complex stands a residence building, a 56-storey office
tower and the Hotel Indonesia - Kempinski, the city's first 5 star
hotel. There are 11 cinemas, a Japanese department store, a huge local bookstore, an ice skating rink, a supermarket and several food courts. The best restaurants in the city can also be found here serving a diverse range of cuisine from local to Asian, Middle Eastern and Western. Although designated as a high-end luxury mall, a growing number of stores are catering to the middle class. Some of the shops not to miss out include local cafes like <b>Kafe Betawi</b> and <b>Coffee Luwak</b> where you can have civet coffee, one of the most expensive coffees in the world. For delicious pastries try <b>Dynamic </b>bakery and for cool Indonesian souvenirs go to <b>Damn! I Love Indonesia</b>.</div>
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I really like this mall, in fact, it's my favorite mall outside the Philippines. I love how each floor has a different look, zoned into artistic themes. The developers went through great lengths in committing to their concept. I especially liked the Crossroads of the World District, where a beautiful fountain, Chinese lanterns and stone cobbled floors were some of the stuff used to highlight the Asian, American and European sections. I also liked the zen designed Food Louver food court connecting the West and East Malls. To sum it all up, you have a shopping mall which is a fashion haven, a gastronomic hotspot, an artistic delight, and houses everything else you can think of under one roof. Grand Indonesia should definitely be in everyone's itinerary!</div>
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<u>Grand Indonesia is centrally located near the Selamat Datang Statue roundabout and across Plaza Indonesia so naturally, you should also take the BRT to Bundaran Hotel Indonesia.</u> Also, there's a Blue Bird Taxi queue in both malls for added convenience.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gtPBJWxJgdw/UGqQYrTIzUI/AAAAAAAACqQ/5YlX_o6Ad5Q/s1600/32.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gtPBJWxJgdw/UGqQYrTIzUI/AAAAAAAACqQ/5YlX_o6Ad5Q/s640/32.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Selamat Detang Statue</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-V_XDyjy7O-Q/UGqQ8QivqGI/AAAAAAAACqo/hqXAsz3TUw8/s1600/36.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-V_XDyjy7O-Q/UGqQ8QivqGI/AAAAAAAACqo/hqXAsz3TUw8/s640/36.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grand Indonesia</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I really find this pic humorous</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fully carpeted floor</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1sREOlshSkM/UGqRxTud0oI/AAAAAAAACrI/LSCr0fINqL0/s1600/39.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1sREOlshSkM/UGqRxTud0oI/AAAAAAAACrI/LSCr0fINqL0/s640/39.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The place to buy cool Indonesian T-shirts</td></tr>
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For dinner, I went to the <b>Food Louver</b> food court located in the level 3 skybridge and had a very difficult time picking which place to eat as a lot of the stalls looked inviting. Finally, I decided to go local and tried <b>Sate Khas Senayan Express</b>, Indonesia's famous satay specialists. I had chicken and pork satay and nasi uduk. Nasi uduk is similar to nasi lemak as it consists of rice with sambal and minced meat with some veggies although it had a distinct sweet and spicy taste which I wasn't used to. My brain couldn't decide whether this new taste was good or bad. What it did know however, was that it had tasted the best satay yet. True to their reputation, Sate Khas serves top notch satay and what makes it special is the sauce. I've never tasted it this rich and creamy perfectly complimenting the meat and making me want to get more. Prices are cheap (as you'll expect in a food court) yet the food is delicious therefore I recommend you to try Sate Khas Senayan here or in one of it's restaurants scattered in the city.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Up to now, I'm still having dreams about this satay, yum yum!</td></tr>
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<span style="text-align: justify;">The Day's Expenses (P): </span><br />
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Transportation 200</div>
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Admission Fees 50<br />
Hotel 1,800<br />
Food 1,000 </div>
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<u>Shopping ? </u></div>
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Total P 3,050</div>
Arman Gohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13841824518243724166noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6036390446560410222.post-91655586978762532722012-12-22T23:11:00.000+08:002012-12-22T23:15:12.342+08:00Java...Prambanan, Borobudur, and Yogyakarta (Day 1)<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Java: My First Solo Adventure / Spectacular Sights All Around</b></div>
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Spontaneous, not part of the plan, unexpected yet somehow ends in amazement. The Piso Sale had me in a panicked frenzy as I swiped my credit card away to my target destinations. The craziness resulted in one random moment (which I still I can't explain), where I suddenly had the overwhelming urge to go to Indonesia, alone, without any prior research, and so I made it happen and arranged my one-on-one appointment with Southeast Asia's Sleeping Giant!</div>
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After reading a bit about the country, I arranged an itinerary that would maximize my sightseeing and included the highlights of <b>Java</b>, the region of my fascination. The plan was to fly early from Jakarta to see the magnificent sights of Borobudur & Prambanan then experience Yogyakarta's rich culture and finally get back to Jakarta in the morning via overnight train, all within 24 hours. And if everything goes right (or wrong), my first solo backpacking experience will be something I'd never forget!</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Highlights of Java</td></tr>
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I arrived at Soekarno-Hatta Airport in Jakarta, just before midnight, welcomed by a pleasant February climate. I cleared immigration swiftly as Filipinos can enter Indonesia for 30 days free of charge. At the arrival area is a 24-hour forex offering poor rates but I exchanged some money anyways to pay for my transportation and upcoming day in Yogyakarta ("Jogja" for short). Banks found in Jakarta's shopping malls offer better rates and that is where you should change most of your money.<br />
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<span style="text-align: start;">During the wee hours of the night, only the money changer was open, so my review of the airport will be on my return, for now, I had to get to Terminal 3 where my Air Asia plane will be departing. <u>To get from Terminal 2 to 3 you can take: (a) the free shuttle bus circling the terminals or (b) the taxi for IDR 30,000.</u> Because it was midnight, I was forced into taking the taxi, which only took 3 minutes to get there. You should look for a "Blue Bird Taxi", the only reputable company in Jakarta. As I reached their counter at the arrivals hall, unfortunately, they had no taxi available so I settled into haggling with one of the taxi touts for IDR 40,000. Now you maybe wondering how such a short distance costs a lot of rupiah, well the reason is that at least half of the amount you pay goes to a parking fee which is paid every time, even if a taxi just drops off passengers at the terminal. I think it's a ridiculous fee imposed by a shady parking management.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Soekarno-Hatta Airport Terminal 2</td></tr>
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Also called the <b>Low Cost Carrier Terminal</b>, Terminal 3, is a new and modern airport used mainly for domestic flights by budget carriers. It was still closed when I got there, so I just waited on the arrival area outside while inhaling second-hand smoke from cigarette worshipers. Around 4 am, they began to let people in and I got to say, the interiors were impressive, not low cost at all. The airport was clean, bright and cool and everything looked orderly. On the 2nd floor were shops and restaurants I was used to seeing in bigger airports, there's even a spacious waiting area for passengers. Also, a quick note to all, there is a departure tax for domestic flights of IDR 35,000 payable at the check-in counters. Around 5:30 am, we were called for boarding, although the announcement was only in Bahasa so I had to confirm with the flight staff.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">LCCT aka Terminal 3</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Walang puyat puyat maski walang tulog!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Satay w/ rice meal in-flight, very good!</td></tr>
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The plane arrived at <b>Adisucipto Airport</b> in Yogyakarta around 7 am and so began my misadventures. It's a really small airport, with basic facilities but one that handles heavy passenger traffic daily. I was used to picking up my baggage at a conveyor belt upon arrival but here, you were supposed to claim it at the plane storage, immediately after getting down the ramp. As all the signs and announcements were in Bahasa, I mistakenly waited for my bag from a conveyor belt of a different flight! After about an hour of waiting and seeing everyone else claim their bags, I was starting to get nervous, luckily, my local contact, Chris, arrived early and was able to help me by going to the airline's office and explaining my problem. That's when he told me of my mistake, fortunately, the airline kept the bag, and I was able to retrieve it from them.</div>
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<u>If you'll be staying in Jogja, you can: (a) walk to the airport parking lot then take the Trans Jogja Bus for IDR 3,500 to the Malioboro stop then walk or take a short taxi ride to your hotel or (b) arrange for a hotel pick-up or (c) take a 20-minute prepaid taxi ride to your hotel from the Blue Bird Counter outside the arrivals area for IDR 50,000.</u></div>
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<span style="text-align: start;"><b>Trans Jogja</b> works like the subway, but using buses. These buses run on special lanes, only stop at designated bus stops and are located at elevated bus stations. Each ride costs a fixed amount of IDR 3,500. </span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Adisucipto Airport</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Trans Jogja Bus Station</td></tr>
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Because I wanted to spend my lone day as efficiently as I could, a month ago, I searched online for different tour operators to see if there was anything that would satisfy my requirement and fit my budget at the same time. I picked <b>Lestari Travel </b>as they offered the best deal among the tour operators. For IDR 325,000, they provided me with a van, a driver/guide, covered parking fees, gas, and pick-up service for 12 hours. While I would still recommend DIY travel as it's a better experience and cheaper, I had a really tight schedule and had a train to catch later, so the car was better suited to accomplish my objectives.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The car that toured me around</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My driver for the day, Chris</td></tr>
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My first agenda, was a visit to the <b>Prambanan Temples</b>. Entry for a foreigner costs significantly higher than for locals at IDR 162,000. Hiring a guide will cost an additional IDR 75,000. Also, the complex is open from 6 am to 6 pm. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, these Hindu temples form a stunning collection of pointed sculptures inside a wide, expansive park. It is the largest Hindu temple complex in the world. Inside are three main temples dedicated to Gods: Vishnu (north), Bhrama (south) and Shiva (center and largest temple). Surrounding these are smaller temples of religious significance and ruins from many other temples originally built here. There's also the small and rudimentary Prambanan Museum, free of entry.</div>
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A few kilometers walk past the main temples will lead you to three different Buddhist temples, Candi Lumbung & Candi Bubrah (both which lie in ruins) and Candi Sewu with its 240 plus (mostly destroyed) temples and an imposing central temple. I also passed by other temples which were either under renovation, in bad condition or in shambles. I highly recommend renting a bicycle which only costs IDR 20,000 available inside the park to save time and energy. Trust me, you will get tired and sweaty covering everything the park has to offer on foot, plus it's more fun riding a bike!<br />
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If your visit coincides and you have the time to spare, there's also a Ramayana Ballet held in the evenings of certain months at Prambanan. Chris gave glowing recommendations of it and I've also heard around the net that it's quite a spectacle.</div>
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I couldn't have asked for a more perfect start than early mornings at Prambanan. You could count by hand the number of people in the whole complex creating for a calm and sacred feel and a temple all to myself. Prambanan is not your average tourist sight as you will instantly be hit upon arrival by it's grandeur and how it's a deeply spiritual place. Without the maddening crowd, I was in no hurry, fully soaking in every detail and serenity that the temple had to offer. I inspected every structure, appreciating the intricate carvings ingrained in each one, and noticing that each one had a purpose, each had a story to tell. The three major temples formed perfect symmetry and you will get rewarded with climbing them as there are relics surrounding the temples and inside. Statues, mystical figures and rubble are scattered all across the compound and you'd easily spend a large chunk of time covering it all. I walked past rows of ruins, thinking to myself, if this place still looked beautiful today, I wonder how much better it was during it's heyday!</div>
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Although often overlooked, Prambanan is a beautiful expression of religious devotion, an enduring testament as to what man can achieve if driven by commitment and belief. In my opinion, Prambanan easily trumps most of the main tourist attractions in other places I've been to, but it just had the unfortunate luck of being in the same place as Borobudur, but make no mistake about it, Prambanan stands on it's own and is a must visit! </div>
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<u>To get here from Yogyakarta, go to the Trans Jogja Bus Station in the middle of Malioboro street and take Trans Jogja Bus 1A-Prambanan which takes 30 minutes and costs IDR 3,000.</u> The temple is easily reached within a few minutes walk from the Prambanan bus stop.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sarap pala ng pakiramdam pag ikaw lang mag-isa!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4a7hHzha0l4/UGk-D4LT4TI/AAAAAAAACc4/1EyOa-zX75w/s1600/14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4a7hHzha0l4/UGk-D4LT4TI/AAAAAAAACc4/1EyOa-zX75w/s640/14.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Can you make out the hidden face?</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cpAzM3d6UYc/UGk9kcY4QJI/AAAAAAAACcw/_-VvA1hNgSQ/s1600/13shiva.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cpAzM3d6UYc/UGk9kcY4QJI/AAAAAAAACcw/_-VvA1hNgSQ/s640/13shiva.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Perfection</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hUs0XDZeDK8/UGk-1-t_IDI/AAAAAAAACdE/ew9LM2-0miw/s1600/15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hUs0XDZeDK8/UGk-1-t_IDI/AAAAAAAACdE/ew9LM2-0miw/s640/15.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Obscured beauty</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Even the wreckage is fascinating</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Scary or cute?</td></tr>
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I'm on a natural high after my visit to Prambanan and had big expectations as my next destination was supposed to be even better. I was skeptical but hopeful (If that makes any sense). After an hour and a half more drive, around lunch time, amidst the sweltering heat and feeling a little hungry, I reached the world famous <b>Borobudur</b>. Entrance to Indonesia's star attraction would cost a foreigner IDR 190,000 and it's open from 6 am to 5 pm. You are required to wear a sarong for religious purposes although I don't think it's strictly enforced. When I got there, there were already hordes of tourists, which in no way should discourage you from visiting, as any time you see one of the great ancient sites of the world is a good time. You're just not seeing Borobudur at it's best. If I'd ever return here, I would take the expensive but well worth Sunrise Tour offered by <b>Manohara Hotel</b> for IDR 320,000 which allows you to enter the temple around 4:30 am before everyone else arrives.</div>
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I will spare you the geeky details about the temple and try to give a brief description of Borobudur as simply as I know about it. Borobudur is the largest Buddhist monument in the world, it's like a wide, over sized shopping mall with 6 floors set on top of a hill and overlooking an active volcano (Mt. Merapi). The top floor has a giant stupa surrounded by an army of junior stupas with Buddha statues on police patrol. The middle floors are cinemas showing the life and teachings of Buddha through wall reliefs, while the ground floor is filled up by more celestial statues and smaller Buddhas and stupas.</div>
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Borobudur is a special sight, it will be one of the most spectacular things you'll ever see in your life, the sheer size overwhelms upon first sight. Each of the six terraces contain delicate, old carvings which can be easily appreciated by anyone. I'm not too familiar with Buddhism but I gained a better understanding of the steps to nirvana (enlightenment), karma, and the Buddha's different postures just by exploring and observing the engravings on each platform. Also, if you're lucky, you maybe rewarded by a glimpse of the majestic Mount Merapi once you reach the peak of the structure. The volcano was just slightly visible during my visit but seeing it serve as a backdrop to the central stupa and smaller stupas still made for a dramatic view.</div>
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One last thing you should do, is put your hands inside a stupa on the top platform and try to touch the Buddha inside. Supposedly, good karma will fall on you for reaching the highest part of the temple and paying respect to Buddha.</div>
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Borobudur ranks among one of the best places I've been to, and is a sight I wholeheartedly recommend to all travelers. I still wonder how this was ever done, what kind of dedication and labor force it took, and where the inspiration for such a complicated design came. It's an inspiring reminder of what an ancient civilization was able to produce during their days. If you're ever unsure about going to Indonesia, let me tell you that Borobudur alone makes it worth the travel.</div>
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<u>To get here, take the Trans Jogja Bus 2A-Jombor which takes 20 minutes and costs IDR 3,000. Once the bus stops at Jombor Terminal, switch to another bus which goes straight to Borobudur taking 90 minutes and costing IDR 20,000.</u></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Over tourism?</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-n8SnwiYjKmE/UGlEVubFYxI/AAAAAAAACd8/0FRyheULcuE/s1600/21.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-n8SnwiYjKmE/UGlEVubFYxI/AAAAAAAACd8/0FRyheULcuE/s640/21.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Borobudur: One of the great wonders of the world</td></tr>
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dwYLN-ZnILN343-3JWdiCGfTFUlkktOuaqsbgBk24DERwB46AisuNs-4U3BQH4xr1WpDSfCyghBC2BNCDcBCA' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aOiPmFNheRg/UGlHwRJT1pI/AAAAAAAACeU/CRYILAB34mU/s1600/24.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aOiPmFNheRg/UGlHwRJT1pI/AAAAAAAACeU/CRYILAB34mU/s640/24.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Buddha's teachings and story through stone carvings</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wah!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You HAVE to see this in person</td></tr>
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Around Borobudur Park, are two museums which I didn't get to visit because I was too preoccupied basking in all of Borobudur's beauty. Immediately visible outside the park, are souvenir shops and food stalls set-up conveniently for tourists. I browsed through some stalls quickly, and there were nice souvenirs to be had but as in anywhere with these types of shops, be prepared to haggle.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Souvenir market just outside Borobudur</td></tr>
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It was already way past lunch time when I finished my Borobudur exploration and I really didn't know any place to eat in Jogja so I asked Chris, my driver, to recommend a place. He took me to a nice, expensive looking restaurant that also sells Indonesian handicrafts, how convenient! Right then I knew that this was one of those mandatory tourist traps, but I was already there so I decided to just ride along. After a quick tour of the souvenir shop without buying anything, I finally had my lunch in their restaurant. The food were overpriced and my blue marlin meal didn't taste good but my other order, the <b>lumpia gudeg</b>, was fantastic. It consisted of chicken, beef and veggies mixed in a spring roll, fried then dipped in sambal and a peanut butter like sauce. It was sweet, salt and spicy goodness, and the saving grace of my meal, so the place wasn't a total scam.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lumpia Gudeg, sobrang sarap!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This tuna, well.... not so good</td></tr>
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The sun was setting when I got back to the city and after purchasing my train ticket leaving for Jakarta 10 pm, Chris and I parted ways at the Tugu train station. Chris was a nice guy, he helped me sort out a few things, shared lots of useful information and stories, and was great company throughout the day. He was my first friend in Indonesia, but as with most people you meet on travel, you eventually go your separate ways in a matter of days or hours. I still had a few hours to spare so I deposited my bags (IDR 1,000 per hour?) in the train station and decided to explore the city on foot.</div>
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Although a small city, <b>Yogyakarta </b>is the cultural capital of Indonesia. It would take a whole day or more to explore everything it has to offer, and my few hours spent there only gave me a small dose of its charm. I mainly walked through Malioboro Street where the heart of the shopping and action happens. Things to buy would include traditional clothing like batik, Jogja T-shirts and tourist souvenirs like magnets, miniature figurines and key chains. Trying out their food wouldn't hurt although gudeg is the only one my picky palate can take. Then there's the street side activity where I passed by people dressed up in weird costumes, and families enjoying the feria (local amusement park) located near the entrance of the Sultan's Complex.</div>
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Just by looking at native styled houses, the row of shops selling souvenir, the becak (trishaw), the andong (horse carriage) and how many of the people seem to be wearing batik, you could tell that Yogyakarta is a city rich in tradition and full of pride. It reminds of provincial plazas back home, straightforward, unaffected by modernization, but unlike there, Jogja is constantly in a chaotic pace. I wish I had more time here, so I really can't give a fair verdict on the city yet, and definitely plan to go back.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The busy streets of Malioboro</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Inside Malioboro Mall</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Indonesia's own donuts J.Co</td></tr>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4zcqMc_E0HM/UGlPzfSsJLI/AAAAAAAACgE/mJs_j_mXr74/s1600/38.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4zcqMc_E0HM/UGlPzfSsJLI/AAAAAAAACgE/mJs_j_mXr74/s640/38.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Serangan Umum 1 Maret Monument</td></tr>
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After heading back to <b>Tugu Station</b>, I picked up my luggage, took a seat and waited for the sleeper train to arrive. As the minutes passed over my train's scheduled arrival, I started to get uneasy. The train announcements were in Bahasa only, so I showed my ticket to some of the locals. I asked if I was supposed to board an incoming train as 30 minutes had already pass the scheduled arrival time, I believe they said yes... To cut the long story short, words got lost in translation and I boarded the wrong train, and I didn't realize it! Luckily, I made a friend of my Indonesian seat mate and as we made small talk the one of the questions he asked me was where I was going. It was then that I found out that this train was headed to Bandung! As the usher led me to the employee's area to fix the situation, I felt sick, I was getting nervous, I was now lost for real! In English I could barely understood, the train conductor told me that I would be dropped off in a station where both of the trains will pass. After hours of inhaling a year's worth of smoke from the employees, I got down the train to some station where I waited a few minutes before I was boarded at my real train. It was already 3 am in the morning and the other passengers were already asleep, and quickly, so did I, passing out of exhaustion and adventure.</div>
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<u>To get to Jakarta from Yogyakarta, buy a train ticket at Tugu Station costing IDR 350,000 taking 8 hours.</u> There are daily trips and overnight trains are available. The seats are reclining and water, pillows and blanket are provided in executive trains. Most importantly, MAKE SURE YOU BOARD THE RIGHT TRAIN!</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tugu Train Station</td></tr>
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<span style="text-align: justify;">The Day's Expenses (P): </span><br />
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Car & Driver 1,900</div>
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Entrance Fees 1,200</div>
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Food 1,000 </div>
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<u>Shopping ?</u></div>
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Total P 4,100</div>
Arman Gohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13841824518243724166noreply@blogger.com93tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6036390446560410222.post-47137310158537427082012-09-04T14:18:00.000+08:002012-09-04T14:18:01.847+08:00Dolphin Watching, Balicasag Island, Virgin Island & Tagbilaran City (Day 3)<div style="text-align: justify;">
I grew up with the sea just behind my house and with a grandfather who used to sail but for some reason (overprotective parents), I never once did venture out into the open waters. Today was my chance, and a chance for my Lolo to return to the familiar environment he used to tread. </div>
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We were up early on a Tuesday for our <b>Sea Tour</b> costing P 1,800. If you'll be arriving from Tagbilaran City, there is an additional P 1,000 round trip fee for land transfers because it's quite far. We left the hotel around 5:00 am and were now headed to Panglao Island, this time for some sun, sand and splash!</div>
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After a long walk to the docks, we finally got to our motorized boat and on our way to the middle of the sea for <b>Dolphin Watching</b> near Pamilacan Island. Dolphins are most commonly seen around 6:00 to 7:00 am which is the reason for the early start of the tour. Despite being a weekday, there were a lot of bancas on dolphin watch, which according to our guide causes disturbance to dolphins and reduces the chances of seeing them. After about 20 minutes of wait with no sighting, we decided to end the pursuit because my grandmother was feeling sea sick. I was starting to feel bad and disappointed when two minutes into our retreat, we lucked out on seeing a gang of dolphins pop right across our boat! They hoped, dived and dazzled in front of us for about a minute until the other boats caught up and the dolphins disappeared for good.</div>
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Seeing the dolphins roam free in their natural habitat up close makes rising early worth it. There is just more fun in seeing them unpredictable and in the wild compared to being in controlled environments like marine parks. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Early morning, lost at sea</td></tr>
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After about 20 minutes of sailing, we reached our next stop, <b>Balicasag Island</b>. It is a small island famous for its clear waters and is a marine sanctuary perfect both for snorkeling and diving. To get to the snorkeling area, a local guide will paddle you in a small boat which will take 5 minutes. There is a marine sanctuary fee of P 150 each. As for what's underneath, we encountered a diverse array of coral reefs and thanks to our expert guide, got to see all sorts of marine life. There were starfish, sea shells, blowfish (so cool), a school of tuna and an assortment of colored fish in different shapes and sizes. I would say that the marine biodiversity found here is just as good as in Puerto Galera or Batangas (at least in shallow waters). <br />
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The waters around here are salty as expected but thankfully, doesn't irritate the skin. Also, it is advisable that you bring fish feeds or small crumbs of bread with you and watch as a platoon of fish swarm instantly upon the sight of food.<br />
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There were a couple of things that irked me off though. First is that they overcharge every tourist that's not from Bohol. From the guy renting snorkel gear, the buko juice vendor, to the broken down pay restroom; it was all too much tourist exploitation. The biggest culprit though are the "paluto" restaurants. Imagine paying P 500 for a small can of Argentina corned beef which would only cost around P 50 in a typical store, yup, it's that bad. The second thing I didn't like involved an incident where a stranger climbed on board our boat while my grandmother was there all alone. He tried to convince her to trade her valuables for some of his stuff! Good thing nothing bad happened, but still, yikes!</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Balicasag Island</td></tr>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xRi4CUzxeFU/UD60u5tn8PI/AAAAAAAACVc/XXgEkDSW0PQ/s1600/2012-07-10+07.31.37.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xRi4CUzxeFU/UD60u5tn8PI/AAAAAAAACVc/XXgEkDSW0PQ/s640/2012-07-10+07.31.37.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Trust me, it's a lot of fun!</td></tr>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MUAXAdIX-eY/UD61CIn4LkI/AAAAAAAACVs/LuQv32nYOKo/s1600/2012-07-10+08.04.28.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MUAXAdIX-eY/UD61CIn4LkI/AAAAAAAACVs/LuQv32nYOKo/s640/2012-07-10+08.04.28.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Overpriced breakfast</td></tr>
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The last stop of our sea tour, 30 minutes away from Balicasag is <b>Virgin Island</b>. Well, it's actually a long stretch of sandbar that is uninhabited and sees relatively few visitors. When the water is shallow, it appears as a strip of fine white sand sandwiched by the seas as it's surrounded by water on both sides. During high tide, the sandbar is barely visible, submerged in the water giving the illusion that you're walking above the sea allowing for fantastic photo opportunities. Swimming is not an option because it's rocky and surrounded by sea plants.</div>
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Despite being proliferated by vendors, I found the island relaxing, peaceful and pure. Being able to do nothing but walk around the soft & powdery sands from end to end, I was forced into a state of blankness. While watching my cousins play around, I just sat there in the sand, not a care in the world, not really wanting to do anything else.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Virgin Island</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Parang may daanan sa gitna, astig!</td></tr>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OMbbfN9Vm8g/UD61nMCovhI/AAAAAAAACWQ/NOEDkntJp9w/s1600/2012-07-10+11.02.58.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OMbbfN9Vm8g/UD61nMCovhI/AAAAAAAACWQ/NOEDkntJp9w/s640/2012-07-10+11.02.58.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Inviting</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Before</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">After</td></tr>
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After a fun but exhausting sea tour, my grandparents decided to rest for a while at the hotel, meantime, my cousins & I explored some of the nearby sights in Tagbilaran City. The first place we went to, just a short walk from Darunday Manor, was the <b>Bohol Museum</b>. It's a misleading name because most of the stuff found here belong to just one man. Set in the house of former Philippine President Carlos Garcia, the museum mainly holds his personal memorabilia. You will find antique household furniture and family heirloom and also get to know about the late president's life and career through manuscripts and other writings. Entrance is free but donations are appreciated.</div>
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<u>To get here, take a 5-minute tricycle ride to Bohol Museum which should only cost P 8 per person. Alternatively, if you'll be walking from the city center, head to the end of Garcia Avenue at Plaza Rizal Park then turn left to JA Clarin Avenue then walk for 5 minutes until you reach the second corner. Afterwards, turn left at Hontanosas street where it's found just along the intersection.</u></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2iCqc0zewFw/UD62NHa4r3I/AAAAAAAACW0/ls-Fspx03TM/s1600/2012-07-09+18.10.32.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2iCqc0zewFw/UD62NHa4r3I/AAAAAAAACW0/ls-Fspx03TM/s640/2012-07-09+18.10.32.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Yc2NYcADc2A/UD62TNWeVLI/AAAAAAAACW8/iZhnjfr4w8M/s1600/2012-07-10+17.39.36.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Yc2NYcADc2A/UD62TNWeVLI/AAAAAAAACW8/iZhnjfr4w8M/s640/2012-07-10+17.39.36.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bohol Museum</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sJh81OgwwuA/UD62paGH-HI/AAAAAAAACXM/BYE8b4YtzMo/s1600/2012-07-10+16.34.14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sJh81OgwwuA/UD62paGH-HI/AAAAAAAACXM/BYE8b4YtzMo/s640/2012-07-10+16.34.14.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I like his thinking!</td></tr>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZQ2SxWvAxo0/UD620edkyOI/AAAAAAAACXY/PHTqHPKXPPI/s1600/2012-07-10+16.42.54.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZQ2SxWvAxo0/UD620edkyOI/AAAAAAAACXY/PHTqHPKXPPI/s640/2012-07-10+16.42.54.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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We met with our grandparents at the hotel then walked our way to the shopping options along the main commercial area in Garcia Avenue. Smack right in the middle of the busy city center is a shopping mall named <b>City Square</b>. It's a fairly basic mall with local food outlets & a couple of national food chains at the front and a plethora of kiosks and shops tightly packed inside. The concentration of shops found on the ground floor are cellphone & repair shops, pirated CDs and software vendors and cheap clothing stores. The second floor holds more of the same with significantly less tenants.</div>
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The mall feels outdated, lacking and bare compared to even the smallest malls in the Metro. Think of it as a pint-sized version of Coastal Mall. Not to be missed though, is a branch of siomai specialist Hoo Cha and a native restaurant offering delicious sweets and delicacies.</div>
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<u>Getting here is easy as it's in the middle of Garcia Avenue either by walking or tricycle.</u> You won't miss it!</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">City Square</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">3 klase ng siomai, lahat masarap</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Okoy</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sweet treats</td></tr>
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Just across City Square, is an even bigger mall named <b>Bohol Quality "BQ" Mall</b>. Comparable to Island City Mall in size and content, it consists of 5 (or 6?) floors of consumer madness. Inside the mall, you will find a department store, a timezone amusement park, a supermarket, a cinema, a food court, several popular international food chains, local restaurants and countless retail shops.</div>
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I like to call this mall ICM Lite because the shopping experience is the same except that it's smaller. Although the mall has been around for a while, I see continuous renovations being done like adding floors and various remodeling jobs which keeps the mall relevant and in way better condition compared to City Square. Make sure you reach the top floor up to the parking as above it is a structure holding more restaurants. I think it's actually kinda cool when you think of it as being a mall inside another mall, very Inception-like!</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bohol Quality Mall</td></tr>
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For dinner, we ate at one of the restaurants inside BQ Mall, <b>Payag</b> restaurant. It's another one of the province's many restaurants specializing in grilled chicken and Filipino food. The pricing was reasonable but I wasn't satisfied with their food. The chicken inasal was just average, while other traditional favorites like sisig also disappointed. Although not necessarily a bad restaurant, Payag just wasn't as good as what majority of reviews were saying about it.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sisig</td></tr>
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After getting back to the hotel, my brother and I decided to make the most out of our remaining time by returning to Island City Mall for some last minute shopping. We also had a parting bite at <b>Frankie's</b> which serve American food using only the freshest ingredients at mid-range prices. The burger and strawberry shake I got were fantastic and a fitting last meal in Bohol!</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Frankie's</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Juicy burger & thick strawberry shake</td></tr>
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The Day's Expenses: (P per person)<br />
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Car & Tricycle 200<br />
Boat & Guide 300<br />
Entrance Fees 50<br />
Accommodation 520<br />
Food ?<br />
<u>Shopping ?</u><br />
Total P 1,070<br />
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Looking back at our Bohol trip, I feel quite satisfied with what I've experienced and the memories that I've brought back. I enjoyed my first hand view of the Chocolate Hills and the Tarsiers, firmly believing that these are must visits to anyone going to Bohol. I am grateful to have experienced the culture preserved in historical sights, museums, old churches and in traditional performances. I am eager to explore the rich waters of Panglao again, hopefully, I'll get to scuba dive next time. Most of all, I will remember the Boholanos who are simple, content, easy going, law abiding and proud of who they are.</div>
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This marks the ends my Bohol travel series. As always, your comments and questions are appreciated and encouraged. Salamat.</div>
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Helpful Links:<br />
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<a href="http://wikitravel.org/en/Bohol" target="_blank">Wikitravel Bohol</a><br />
<a href="http://www.bohol.ph/" target="_blank">Bohol Guide</a>Arman Gohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13841824518243724166noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6036390446560410222.post-21882202991895928902012-09-04T14:17:00.001+08:002013-03-02T08:12:00.746+08:00The Countryside, Tarsiers, Chocolate Hills and Island City Mall (Day 2)<div style="text-align: justify;">
I remember a music video back in my youth (naks, feeling matanda, haha) entitled "Tara Byahe Tayo" sang by various local artists and promoted by the government under the Wow Philippines tourism campaign. Back then, I wasn't in love with travel yet, but I think the beautiful images shown from our national attractions got ingrained into my subconscious and explains why there is like a magnetic force pulling me to visit all of them. Now, I cross one out one on the list, and boy was it worth the visit! </div>
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The van picked us up around 9 am for our <b>Countryside Tour</b> costing P 2,400 as today we explore Bohol's most famous attractions. Hearing a lot of good feedback from other people who've been here, there was a palpable sense of anticipation among the group.</div>
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First stop is the <b>Blood Compact Site</b>. This is the sight of the historic treaty between Sikatuna and Legazpi known as Sandugo. The ritual involved the Filipino and Spanish leaders drinking wine mixed with drops of blood drawn from the other as a sign of friendship. It is a heavily visited area with tourists all lining up to have their photos taken. The background set on top of a cliff also provides a dramatic view of the Bohol sea. During July, the Blood Compact is celebrated by the townspeople in a feast filled with food and lively activities. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cheers!</td></tr>
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A little further away in the town of Baclayon, is the oldest church in Bohol and one of the oldest in the country, the <b>Baclayon Church</b>. The exterior is sort of plain looking, made of coral stones cut into blocks, concealing it's long history. The insides though, shows the centuries of wear and tear, from the crumbling walls & fading statues to stained windows. An interesting phenomena pointed to us by our driver is that an image of Padre Pio's face is visible on the middle wall at the side of the church. Now cannonized as Saint Pio, he was a priest suffering from the stigmata with miraculous healing prowess.</div>
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A mini museum is also found beside the church containing religious artifacts from the Spanish times. Entrance costs P 25.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Baclayon Church</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">If you look closely, you'll see Father Pio in the middle</td></tr>
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Located in the town of Alburquerque, is <b>Prony</b>, one of the longest pythons in captivity. Reaching 23 feet and weighing 660 pounds, looking at the python across it's cage is a scary sight. What's even worse is standing next to it inside the cage and forcing a brave smile while having your picture taken, like I did! Other animals like monkeys and birds are also on display. Entrance costs P 20.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Good boy Prony, good boy</td></tr>
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Now, it's time to meet one of the main icons of Bohol, the small and cute <b>Philippine Tarsiers</b>. The tarsier is a shy, nocturnal primate with big eyes and looks just as big as my palm. These fascinating creatures cling on to branches in their sleep and are even more adorable up close. To me it looks like a hybrid monkey and mouse. I don't know which one trait it is, but there seems to be an instant likability generated when you see one of these animals. Maybe it's the fact that they're so tame and yet, so fragile or probably how they stare right through you with those adorable penetrating eyes! One thing that's certain, everyone who comes for a visit, always leave with a good impression of tarsiers.</div>
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Sadly, it is now endangered due to deforestation and the terrible practice of selling them as pets. A Conservation Area in Loboc is now in charge of it's protection and supervises tourist visits. You are not allowed to touch tarisers or make loud noises around them or use flash photography. If you insist on taking home one with you, it won't work. Tarsiers have suicidal tendencies when separated from their natural habitat, they will just bang their heads to whatever they find until they die. Brutal, but true. Entrance costs P 50.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cute</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tong isa kamuka ni Yoda, mean look</td></tr>
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On the road to the hills, <i>literally </i>on the road is our next attraction, the <b>Man-made Forest</b> of Bilar. Stretching a couple of kilometers are thousands of giant mahogany trees which make for scenic drives in the daytime or creepy horror setting at night. With uniform trees blocking sunlight and extending their branches thereby wrapping the area; being here gives you the feeling that it's on a world of it's own. A funny but terrifying thing to watch here is when tourists have their picture taken at the middle of the road and then have to suddenly scamper out of the way as a vehicle passes through.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Camping tayo, anyone?</td></tr>
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After a somewhat long drive we've finally made it to the town of Carmen to see one of the Philippine's most popular landmarks, the <b>Chocolate Hills</b>. While no one knows exactly where they came from, these thousand kisses shaped hills are one of nature's greatest wonders. The hills are of identical shape and covered in grass which turn brown during the dry season, hence the name. One of the hills has been converted into an observation deck where one has a landscape view of the majestic hills and life around it. Entrance costs P 50 each.</div>
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The thing I thought of the most while up here, was how cool it must have been to live surrounded by an icon. Some might say that there's nothing special about a bunch of hills that turn brown but seeing them in real-time gave me a different perspective. I see minute details like how some hills are slowly getting swallowed by trees around them or how despite the uniformity, you see some slight variations in shape, accessories and/or color which makes every hill unique. It doesn't really hit you how massive the scope of the hills are until it's all towering all over you! Losing count of how many there were and just by being in the moment being able to experience it with my senses was awe-inspiring.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This way to awesome!</td></tr>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_Wmr_vzhDM8/UCizrByp4yI/AAAAAAAACKg/mJ2dTZM3k1U/s1600/IMG_20120709_111023.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_Wmr_vzhDM8/UCizrByp4yI/AAAAAAAACKg/mJ2dTZM3k1U/s640/IMG_20120709_111023.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">100% All Natural</td></tr>
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dyD_aIa3neu0q8MQnhM5n5KHwSLil5Kjjapp6l_YrPJwdmp_V2UMxsdRXYtFoICktlUMgz5FTGDS9bzKlMCPg' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lil bro imitating other tourists</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sarap siguro tumira dito</td></tr>
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A quick stop in the area of Batuan is an eye-catching structure know as the <b>Shiphaus</b>. Originally a former sailor's house, it now serves as a hotel and a mini-museum about ships. Also on board, is a souvenir shop and a food grill with live band. Entrance costs P 30.<br />
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I imagine it's creation going something like this: a person being extremely dedicated in pouring time & money to make a childhood fantasy come to life. If only I could start making a bed that automatically circles around a race track.... Keep dreaming...</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-H0OIkWI3Xxg/UCizzThg-eI/AAAAAAAACKw/ui2vyKPns1A/s1600/IMG_20120709_115128.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-H0OIkWI3Xxg/UCizzThg-eI/AAAAAAAACKw/ui2vyKPns1A/s640/IMG_20120709_115128.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Flood proofed</td></tr>
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Located in the municipality of Sevilla are two parallel bridges stretching 50 or less meters jointly known as <b>Bohol Hanging Bridge</b>. The bridges are made up of sturdy bamboos, supported by steel railings and overlooking the Sipatan River. The overall shakiness of the bridge combined with the deep plunge view below makes it not a good idea for people with fear of heights. It's a sneaky way of making quick bucks because there's really nothing to see here, and the artificial bridge will pale in comparison to better hanging bridges in the country. On the other side of the bridge are souvenir shops, food stalls and a paid CR. Apparently, crossing the bridge is pee inducing! Entrance costs P 20 each.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sdiWLaDHEoo/UCiwa_wiiVI/AAAAAAAACHw/yC-IpJC-LHU/s1600/2012-07-09+12.28.39.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sdiWLaDHEoo/UCiwa_wiiVI/AAAAAAAACHw/yC-IpJC-LHU/s640/2012-07-09+12.28.39.jpg" width="640" /> </a></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wala pa daw nahulog dito? Ows?!</td></tr>
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It was way past lunch time, but we finally made it to Loboc for the <b>Loboc River Cruise</b>. The cruise involves a slow, scenic ride upstream passing small bancas, lush trees, and riverside inhabitants. The journey takes an hour, ending at tiny Busay Falls, with live bands playing continuously and Filipino buffet served on board. Amidst the sweltering heat, the view of nipa and coconut trees in abundance while traversing these pristine waters truly show the beauty of nature, unspoiled and unexplainable. </div>
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The food though can easily be described as unappetizing. The spread was few, food were cold, and dishes were tasteless to average at best. We definitely picked the wrong boat (There are other floating restaurants offering different menus), also, drinks aren't included and it's annoying having to guard your food from hordes of flies.</div>
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Another highlight of the cruise is a cultural show by native Boholanos. They sang and danced inspired by their rich tradition and you couldn't help but be infected with the lively mood. The performances are free but donations are more than welcomed. The river cruise costs P 400 each.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Floating Restaurant</td></tr>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dmI9CiryDBk/UCiwy1a6JxI/AAAAAAAACIA/iMbY0thQgw4/s1600/2012-07-09+13.03.46.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dmI9CiryDBk/UCiwy1a6JxI/AAAAAAAACIA/iMbY0thQgw4/s640/2012-07-09+13.03.46.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nature's finest</td></tr>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6U-Q7xzbaWU/UCixL8W3T4I/AAAAAAAACIU/vHN7aONXBsg/s1600/2012-07-09+13.57.18.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6U-Q7xzbaWU/UCixL8W3T4I/AAAAAAAACIU/vHN7aONXBsg/s640/2012-07-09+13.57.18.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pic says it all</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-b_xy-V-CqCM/UCixsT3GlUI/AAAAAAAACIk/cU3ZWygqi9k/s1600/2012-07-09+14.14.05.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-b_xy-V-CqCM/UCixsT3GlUI/AAAAAAAACIk/cU3ZWygqi9k/s640/2012-07-09+14.14.05.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Busay Falls</td></tr>
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For the last part of our tour, we headed to <b>Butterfly Garden</b>. For the P 50 admission, you get to see one small room of butterfly information and a butterfly enclosure with not a lot of butterflies. Kids may enjoy the interactive experience with butterflies but for the same price as the Chocolate Hills, it's undoubtedly a tourist trap.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9lrcUR_QSfQ/UCiz3zz4jbI/AAAAAAAACK4/WEABLmel7MQ/s1600/IMG_20120709_145756.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9lrcUR_QSfQ/UCiz3zz4jbI/AAAAAAAACK4/WEABLmel7MQ/s640/IMG_20120709_145756.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nakaka kiliti daw sabi niya</td></tr>
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Not yet wanting to call it a day, we requested our driver to drop us off at <b>Island City Mall </b>(ICM for the locals) instead of our hotel. ICM is the newest and most complete mall in the province, all in 3 packed floors. You will find local and international retail shops, chain fastfoods, a few restaurants, a cinema, a food court and a supermarket. Of the three malls I’ve been in, this is by far the best in Bohol. It’s already comparable to small SMs in Luzon, with a lot of recognizable tenants like Bench, National Bookstore and Jollibee etc. </div>
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Be sure to look for one shop (forgot the name) where you can get personalized Bohol souveniers. Also of interest is the supermarket where most of the goods sold at souvenir shops are available at lower prices like peanut kisses, calamay, Emari’s pastel bread (very addictive) and banana chips.</div>
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To get here from Tagbilaran city, take a 15-minute tricycle ride which shouldn't cost you more than P 30 for 3 passengers.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">ICM</td></tr>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NrvCTYgH9_w/UCiyZIwqm6I/AAAAAAAACJA/r0X0oa-yUvU/s1600/2012-07-09+17.57.14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NrvCTYgH9_w/UCiyZIwqm6I/AAAAAAAACJA/r0X0oa-yUvU/s640/2012-07-09+17.57.14.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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For dinner, we ate at <b>Prawn Farm</b> restaurant located at the mall's ground floor. This is the best restaurant we've tried in Bohol. The food is high quality, the service is excellent and the setting is classy. The menu has a good international selection mixed with the usual Filipino favorites and the prices are surprisingly affordable. Everything we ordered were delicious but those that stood out as really good are the shrimp balls and bagoong rice.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Recommended</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CSudQBMw5og/UCiyzDbZmKI/AAAAAAAACJU/LL2Lfe5SNxI/s1600/2012-07-09+19.37.33.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CSudQBMw5og/UCiyzDbZmKI/AAAAAAAACJU/LL2Lfe5SNxI/s640/2012-07-09+19.37.33.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Calamares, Pork Ribs, Chicken</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shrimp Balls & Bagoong Rice</td></tr>
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The Day's Expenses: (P per person)</div>
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Car & Driver 400</div>
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Entrance Fees 620</div>
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Accommodation 520</div>
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Total P 1,540</div>
Arman Gohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13841824518243724166noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6036390446560410222.post-72897123589926847222012-09-04T14:17:00.000+08:002013-01-15T15:11:52.842+08:00Bohol... Arrivals, Dauis, Panglao City and Bohol Bee Farm (Day 1)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>Bohol: The Famous Hills and Everything Else Untold</b></div>
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Bohol has always been famous for Tarsiers, the Chocloate Hills and Panglao Island. To most tourists, it is a single day trip from Cebu with an overnight stay at the maximum. They get to see the famous sights and possibly check out the beach before heading out. However, one of the joys of traveling, is venturing into the unknown and making unexpected discoveries. I wanted to see Bohol for all its worth, from the tourist spots, to the roads less traveled.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Chocolate Hills</td></tr>
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There were 6 of us on this trip: me, my brother, my grandparents and my two younger cousins. We were here last July, for 4 days and 3 nights. Airphil Express got us to <b>Tagbilaran Airport</b> around lunch time without delays. The airport is very small & basic and can get crowded even with just 2 planes arriving at the same time. It is centrally located, being only 5 minutes away from the city center and 30 minutes away from Panglao Island. Having weighed the pros and cons of the airport, I would actually be ecstatic if we had one of these in Cavite! </div>
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<u>To get to the city center you can, (a) take a tricycle for P 50, (b) haggle with mini van drivers just outside the terminal or (c) have your hotel pick you up for free.</u> Throughout my stay, I didn't see a single taxi in the province. The main modes of transportation are jeepneys, tricycles, motorcycles and baby buses.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lHuZWg-M8LQ/UCiWsnUqqMI/AAAAAAAACAY/sYi4feUI8Mo/s1600/2012-07-08+10.34.33.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lHuZWg-M8LQ/UCiWsnUqqMI/AAAAAAAACAY/sYi4feUI8Mo/s640/2012-07-08+10.34.33.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">First time ko, on time, won't be my last time</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wGSEvHm0F9I/UCiW5e7bFDI/AAAAAAAACAk/G6UQYtFckWA/s1600/2012-07-08+10.34.55.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wGSEvHm0F9I/UCiW5e7bFDI/AAAAAAAACAk/G6UQYtFckWA/s640/2012-07-08+10.34.55.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tagbilaran Airport</td></tr>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
Although most tourists tend to stay in Panglao Island, my grandparents weren't exactly beach bums and preferred to be in the city. We stayed at <a href="http://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g1066348-d1065707-Reviews-Darunday_Manor-Tagbilaran_City_Bohol_Island_Bohol_Province_Visayas.html" target="_blank">Darunday Manor</a> for P 1,300 per room per night plus P 250 for extra bed. It includes free breakfast, free round trip airport transfers and free wifi. The location is very good as it's just a 2 minute walk to a church, 5 minutes walk to two malls & the busy main street. Also, a 24-hour convenience store is across the street and we had no problems sleeping at night because the area was peaceful.</div>
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On the downside, the rooms are small and a little worn out. They don't provided basic amenities like tooth brush or shampoo and there is no ref. Breakfast was absolutely garbage. The staff are always smiling and polite but service was inefficient.</div>
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We chose this hotel for the price, location and because of the limited options in Tagbilaran City. Initially, our first choice was MetroCentre, but they were fully booked. Most of the nice hotels are located in Panglao and that is where I recommend you stay at for the nightlife, the dinning options and the beach.</div>
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<b>Here's a list of hotels I recommend:</b></div>
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- MetroCentre Hotel (Tagbilaran) (Great location, excellent facilities)</div>
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- Darunday Manor (Tagbilaran) (Budget, basic)</div>
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- Bohol Bee Farm (Panglao) (Exclusive beach use, lot's of stuff to do)</div>
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- Alona Tropical Beach Resort (Panglao) (Budget, Beach and Nightlife)</div>
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- Amorita Resort (Panglao) (Expensive, you will really feel you're in a vacation here!)</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Bx7V2p3uJb4/UCikJA75WZI/AAAAAAAACFE/UlCZM6RHHmE/s1600/picsay-1344837721.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Bx7V2p3uJb4/UCikJA75WZI/AAAAAAAACFE/UlCZM6RHHmE/s640/picsay-1344837721.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Darunday Manor</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uAsE-n0zSCA/UCijDGoQljI/AAAAAAAACDo/0nQ4PnF2cw8/s1600/2012-07-08+19.47.30.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uAsE-n0zSCA/UCijDGoQljI/AAAAAAAACDo/0nQ4PnF2cw8/s640/2012-07-08+19.47.30.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">With Extra Bed</td></tr>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CfPr7Mr_Mec/UCijKxPj0nI/AAAAAAAACDw/_hFosi8sOao/s1600/2012-07-08+19.49.03.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CfPr7Mr_Mec/UCijKxPj0nI/AAAAAAAACDw/_hFosi8sOao/s640/2012-07-08+19.49.03.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eKfkq9bGE8k/UCijUcMkNTI/AAAAAAAACD4/9T5Vn3T7sKc/s1600/2012-07-08+20.29.37.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eKfkq9bGE8k/UCijUcMkNTI/AAAAAAAACD4/9T5Vn3T7sKc/s640/2012-07-08+20.29.37.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dinning Area</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cfjo_JpHHj4/UCijfF3CBXI/AAAAAAAACEA/X06t0w6T44g/s1600/2012-07-08+20.30.13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cfjo_JpHHj4/UCijfF3CBXI/AAAAAAAACEA/X06t0w6T44g/s640/2012-07-08+20.30.13.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lobby</td></tr>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
I hope you'll excuse me for not going DIY on this trip for the following reasons: (1) my Lola won't be able to handle it and (2) the tourist sites in Bohol are spread out, and transportation options are sparse.</div>
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So I did the next best thing, I arranged for a car and driver rental from Naldix Tours. Our driver Jeffry arrived with a Nissan Urvan at the hotel lobby around 1 pm for our <b>Panglao Tour</b> costing P 1,800. What I liked about the arrangement is that we got to choose which sites to go to and how much time to spend there.</div>
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We had lunch at <b>Chicken Ati-atihan</b>, a famous native restaurant. Their specialty is chicken inasal with unlimited rice. We also got chicken sisig, fried rice and chicharon bulaklak. The food is affordable and tasty although you won't notice any distinct Boholano flavor which makes it no different from restaurants in Luzon offering the same.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vMKxSEFXWPw/UCigI3G7gmI/AAAAAAAACBc/6w93USw7zW0/s1600/IMG_20120708_123542.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vMKxSEFXWPw/UCigI3G7gmI/AAAAAAAACBc/6w93USw7zW0/s640/IMG_20120708_123542.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chicken Inasal</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OOC-k-oNfNk/UCigOV1W3BI/AAAAAAAACBk/54gP1fIe30o/s1600/IMG_20120708_123519.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OOC-k-oNfNk/UCigOV1W3BI/AAAAAAAACBk/54gP1fIe30o/s640/IMG_20120708_123519.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chicharon Bulaklak, favorite ko!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sYEHG8s41Ak/UCij3GIROvI/AAAAAAAACEc/kCoQ0Dm1US8/s1600/IMG_20120708_123514.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sYEHG8s41Ak/UCij3GIROvI/AAAAAAAACEc/kCoQ0Dm1US8/s640/IMG_20120708_123514.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chicken Skin</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
Our first stop is <b>Dauis Church </b>and it's Miracle Well. The church was built during the Spanish era and is located at the town of Dauis in Panglao Island overlooking Tagbilaran City. The exterior is pleasant to look at architecturally but it's what's inside that made it famous. At the foot of the main altar is an old well with healing powers and a seemingly endless supply of water. A bottled version of the water from the well is available for consumption from the church for a little donation. Also inside, are wall paintings on the ceiling of saints and Biblical re-enactments. At the back of the church is a nice view of the Panglao waters and at the side is a heritage house displaying artifacts from the church.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-29Nm8wnnbU0/UCig-PpJLSI/AAAAAAAACB8/8GVGDsf2BI8/s1600/2012-07-08+13.36.37.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-29Nm8wnnbU0/UCig-PpJLSI/AAAAAAAACB8/8GVGDsf2BI8/s640/2012-07-08+13.36.37.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dauis Church facade</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZcZ7edJnrDc/UCigyaEltoI/AAAAAAAACB0/Jf6Ldjc9XZI/s1600/2012-07-08+13.26.14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZcZ7edJnrDc/UCigyaEltoI/AAAAAAAACB0/Jf6Ldjc9XZI/s640/2012-07-08+13.26.14.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Miracle Well</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PnNZL5CMksw/UCij54z-R3I/AAAAAAAACEk/UducAUXPcv4/s1600/IMG_20120708_133516.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PnNZL5CMksw/UCij54z-R3I/AAAAAAAACEk/UducAUXPcv4/s640/IMG_20120708_133516.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ags4N6j0Cd8/UCij_NAMqNI/AAAAAAAACEs/Hbe8JmLISFo/s1600/IMG_20120708_133625.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ags4N6j0Cd8/UCij_NAMqNI/AAAAAAAACEs/Hbe8JmLISFo/s640/IMG_20120708_133625.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">What's Older, House or Humans?! (Joke, evil!)</td></tr>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
Next up, we went to see <b>Bayoyoy the Dwarf</b>, one of the smallest and oldest living person in the Philippines. Bayoyoy suffers from dwarfism and is now in his 60's. He doesn't function properly unlike the most of us, because of his abnormality. Looking at him makes me feel bad. I don't have it in me to post his pictures here because I feel that's exploiting him and it's just not my thing. There is no tourism in seeing a person in a miserable state, so why even promote it, it's despicable to see him as an attraction. Entrance is free but he needs all the donation he can get.</div>
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Moving on, we headed to <b>Hinagdanan Cave</b>. Also in Dauis, this underground cave is reached via steep steps supported by steel handles. It is a cave made of limestone which was discovered accidentally by the locals. Inside the small and compact cave, are stalactites hanging from the ceiling and a pond at the center. It is dark, slippery, and humid inside but I didn't see any bats. At the ceiling, is a small opening which allows little light to pass through the cave which formerly was only accessible through the use of a ladder. Entrance fee is P 15, plus parking fee P 20 and a small donation to your guide.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pOmPuzq4gZQ/UCihVDv3IsI/AAAAAAAACCQ/osUh1dmDpA8/s1600/2012-07-08+14.23.55.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pOmPuzq4gZQ/UCihVDv3IsI/AAAAAAAACCQ/osUh1dmDpA8/s640/2012-07-08+14.23.55.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ccVtkNwkpdo/UCihG4Iq9QI/AAAAAAAACCE/pt5i1a4w72g/s1600/2012-07-08+14.14.58.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ccVtkNwkpdo/UCihG4Iq9QI/AAAAAAAACCE/pt5i1a4w72g/s640/2012-07-08+14.14.58.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hindi kinaya ng Galaxy S2 ko ang dilim!</td></tr>
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Continuing on with our tour, we then saw the St. Augustine Church, also known as<b> Panglao Church</b>. The church is your typical old, Spanish influenced structure but what's interesting about this place is the adjacent watch tower. Claimed to be the tallest in the Philippines, it looks like it's about to fall because it probably is. Also, I would like to believe that the large open space and numerous benches fill up on weekends as a public gathering place.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ASO52x-5-3E/UCihe2osdtI/AAAAAAAACCY/h8CyvAf_U2g/s1600/2012-07-08+14.43.50.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ASO52x-5-3E/UCihe2osdtI/AAAAAAAACCY/h8CyvAf_U2g/s640/2012-07-08+14.43.50.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Panglao Church</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9E1nXCTPqJA/UCikDDUzqHI/AAAAAAAACE0/MVKLikjwyd4/s1600/IMG_20120708_143706.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9E1nXCTPqJA/UCikDDUzqHI/AAAAAAAACE0/MVKLikjwyd4/s640/IMG_20120708_143706.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hindi ba nila to lalagyan ng safety features? Guguho na!</td></tr>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
Now it's time for our side trip to an obligatory tourist trap, the <b>Shell Museum</b>. As the name implies, it holds a collection different kinds of seas shells and other ocean treasures. It will probably be interesting for the first 5 minutes of browsing (unless you're a shell collector) then afterwards it becomes boring and you want to make your way to the exit. There's also a souvenir shop inside to ensnare tourists. Entrance costs P 30 and if you just want to see different kinds of shells then go ahead drop by because it won't take too much time, otherwise, skip it.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kKRiodFO0KQ/UCihqRodEII/AAAAAAAACCg/zdZgP5q-OYU/s1600/2012-07-08+14.56.15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kKRiodFO0KQ/UCihqRodEII/AAAAAAAACCg/zdZgP5q-OYU/s640/2012-07-08+14.56.15.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Snoozzzzzzzze</td></tr>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-a-HprK8C7BQ/UCih3aIVBkI/AAAAAAAACCo/bGYFm2EX0BQ/s1600/2012-07-08+15.01.44.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-a-HprK8C7BQ/UCih3aIVBkI/AAAAAAAACCo/bGYFm2EX0BQ/s640/2012-07-08+15.01.44.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
For our last stop, we go to <b>Bohol Bee Farm</b>. It is an agricultural haven which also functions as a resort and a restaurant. An environment and local community friendly place, there are a few things I could recommend from Bohol Bee Farm. I will start with the ice cream, it's surprisingly a delicious treat, considering that the flavor is malunggay, the other flavors were good as well but malunggay is the best-seller. They also sell organic products like honey, pastry spreads, muffins, polvoron, banana chips, cocoa, and much more which are perfect as pasalubong. The pricing is a little expensive, but we liked most of the stuff we bought especially the honey spread.</div>
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I also enjoyed the farm tour which only costs P 30. It's informative, relevant and interactive. We got to learn a ton about how they use natural organic farming to grow their produce. We also got to witness livelihood activities by locals like weaving, sewing and basket making. To top it all, we had a real <i>close </i>encounter with bees.</div>
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The only thing I regret, is not being able to dine at their restaurant. We were there around 5 pm, and my companions were still full and didn't want to have early dinner. The accompanying view at sea is both relaxing and inviting. I actually envy the resort guests, because they have exclusive use of these waters.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ArgbnlvO4Dc/UCiiNclYkvI/AAAAAAAACC8/1YHp3jcq9HE/s1600/2012-07-08+16.07.12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ArgbnlvO4Dc/UCiiNclYkvI/AAAAAAAACC8/1YHp3jcq9HE/s640/2012-07-08+16.07.12.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wwj1YiVf5HA/UCiiCG-6-gI/AAAAAAAACC0/yxHWS0GWorU/s1600/2012-07-08+16.05.52.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wwj1YiVf5HA/UCiiCG-6-gI/AAAAAAAACC0/yxHWS0GWorU/s640/2012-07-08+16.05.52.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dapat meron nito sa Maynila</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RlnGkz4tUIY/UCikGVJVRbI/AAAAAAAACE8/62nH5Qodi70/s1600/IMG_20120708_160153.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RlnGkz4tUIY/UCikGVJVRbI/AAAAAAAACE8/62nH5Qodi70/s640/IMG_20120708_160153.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Malunggay Ice Cream, a must-try!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I'm smiling, but I'm actually really scared right now!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our driver Jeffry and his daughter</td></tr>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4YfKG84W0TY/UCiit5jrl6I/AAAAAAAACDU/-nmaX4bSPHw/s1600/2012-07-08+16.51.08.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4YfKG84W0TY/UCiit5jrl6I/AAAAAAAACDU/-nmaX4bSPHw/s640/2012-07-08+16.51.08.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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For dinner, we ate at <b>Golden Cowrie</b> restaurant near our hotel. They serve traditional Filipino food at reasonable prices. I don't know if I set my standards too high, but I didn't like the food as much as I thought I would. To me most of the dishes were either too salty or lacked flavor.</div>
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After eating, Jeffry dropped us off to our hotel, and so ended our first day with Naldix Tours. Naldix Tours gets a passing grade from me. They offered the cheapest rates among the tour operators I inquired. Our driver / guide is friendly, informative and accommodating. The things I didn't like include (a) being late to pick us up at the hotel, (b) late response to my previous emails and (c) charging a different rate (P 200 more) than what was previously agreed upon in one of the tours.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">So so dinner ...</td></tr>
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While my companions opted to rest, I went out for a late night stroll of the surrounding area. Safe, quiet, slow paced, and laid back, these were the impressions I got wandering around. I never felt that I was in any danger when exposing my valuables in the open or walking in dark, deserted alleys late at night. Here, I see the province act true to itself and they wouldn't respond any other way. Because strangers, usually never gets this far.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">St. Joseph Cathedral</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gov't house</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mahal ng balut dito</td></tr>
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The Day's Expenses: (P per person)</div>
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Car & Driver 300</div>
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Entrance Fees 130</div>
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Accommodation 520</div>
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Food ?</div>
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<u>Shopping ?</u></div>
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Total P 950</div>
Arman Gohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13841824518243724166noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6036390446560410222.post-69246084706673131372012-08-08T13:22:00.000+08:002012-08-08T13:22:06.754+08:00Erawan Shrine, More Malls, & Chinatown (Day 5)<div style="text-align: left;">
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This is our last day in Thailand and we were hoping to make it count. Unfortunately, the "Incident" happened, which I won't discuss further, and instantly, I was on my own for the rest of the day.</div>
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I started my trip around 1 pm, after checking out and leaving my stuff at the hotel. <u>I hoped on the BTS to Chit Lom Station</u> and made my way down to the <b>Erawan Shrine</b>. Located below the Grand Hyatt Erawan Hotel, the Erawan Shrine houses a sacred Hindu statue named Than Tao Mahaprom with hordes of followers paying their respects from morning til night. It is adorned with flowers, incense and candles and is revered by Thais.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vt27sNy3Sno/UBsoPMjiRJI/AAAAAAAABtM/qq8WrfZ_Osc/s1600/2011-10-03+13.21.48.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vt27sNy3Sno/UBsoPMjiRJI/AAAAAAAABtM/qq8WrfZ_Osc/s640/2011-10-03+13.21.48.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">As seen from the skybridge</td></tr>
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After saying my prayers at the shrine, I decided to check out the other malls in Ratchaprasong. Inside the Grand Hyatt Erawan Hotel is the <b>Erawan Bangkok</b>, a boutique mall with posh brands and very few people shopping. There is a wellness center on top, fashion shops in the middle and fine restaurants on the ground including Crystal Jade.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Entrance to the Hyatt</td></tr>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iUhwpCKrX-0/UBsvZQCyXcI/AAAAAAAABuQ/YViv816q0wE/s1600/2011-10-03+13.25.52.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iUhwpCKrX-0/UBsvZQCyXcI/AAAAAAAABuQ/YViv816q0wE/s640/2011-10-03+13.25.52.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Getting back up the skybridge, I followed the directions to <b>Gaysorn</b>, a chic and sophisticated mall geared towards luxury shopping. It has over 100 shops in 5 levels but none which interests me. Major tenants include LV, Prada, Fendi and local brands Stretsis and Disaya.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Conveniently connected to the skybridge</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Qu-HHBKaF6Q/UBs1FHDgTAI/AAAAAAAABvM/-hNnPAEsP6g/s1600/2011-10-03+13.38.30.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Qu-HHBKaF6Q/UBs1FHDgTAI/AAAAAAAABvM/-hNnPAEsP6g/s640/2011-10-03+13.38.30.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gorgeous chandelier</td></tr>
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I had lunch at Siam Paragon then returned to Central World and bought something before heading to the Pratunam area. I made my way to <b>Platinum Fashion Mall</b> which as the name implies, is all about fashion. Guys be warned though, this place is catered especially for women so you might want to skip this and save yourself and your wallet! Ladies, you are expected to haggle and buying in bulk will get you more discount, but you already know that!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Pu7pEX-8WZU/UBs9S85HTcI/AAAAAAAABv8/q4ZOVWMZASg/s1600/2011-10-03+12.55.53.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Pu7pEX-8WZU/UBs9S85HTcI/AAAAAAAABv8/q4ZOVWMZASg/s640/2011-10-03+12.55.53.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yum!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lCWUL03jyGk/UBs9gHynM6I/AAAAAAAABwE/s01_vJ9JI5Y/s1600/2011-10-03+13.56.15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lCWUL03jyGk/UBs9gHynM6I/AAAAAAAABwE/s01_vJ9JI5Y/s640/2011-10-03+13.56.15.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My mom says "Hi"</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Parang 168</td></tr>
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Right next door is <b>Pantip Plaza</b>, the electronics mall. This is the place to go for the cheapest prices and widest selection of stores selling computers, cameras, music players and other gadgets. There are also stores which sell counterfeit software and pirated goods. The biggest drawback as always when buying electronic items abroad is the lack of warranty and the after-sale services which your item might need. Based on experience, it is very difficult to have an item repaired or to look for parts if bought internationally.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jZC8NFLNEWE/UBs_EvvWthI/AAAAAAAABwY/ipl4qdW4cYk/s1600/2011-10-03+14.13.51.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jZC8NFLNEWE/UBs_EvvWthI/AAAAAAAABwY/ipl4qdW4cYk/s640/2011-10-03+14.13.51.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pantip Plaza</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Packed with tech goodies</td></tr>
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I walked about 10 minutes to reach BTS Ratchathewi Station and moved on to Bangkok's <b>Chinatown</b> at Yaowarat road. My visit coincided with the Vegetarian festival, and for people who don't know me, I don't eat veggies. I just don't, never have; I eat them minced or in small portions like as part of fried rice or pizza but never in big portions or as main meal. My palate just rejects it, if I force myself into eating I usually just swallow the whole thing up otherwise I spit them all back out. All of the street vendors had the yellow flag raised which signifies their participation in the festival. Needless to say I didn't get to enjoy the street food and contributed to my disappointment in the place. It's a bit unfair to give a verdict of the place because the timing of my visit wasn't ideal (more alive at night) and with the festival going on. Also, I didn't get to spend a lot of time exploring the area. On this day, I found Yaowarat as no different than any other Chinatowns I've been to, nothing special.<br />
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Getting to Chinatown on foot is tricky, but I will try to give you guys the direction as well as I can. <u>Switch into the Metro to Hualamphong Station. After exiting the station, cross the street, and turn left to Thannon Rama IV where the stoplight is, then walk straight until you reach the intersection on the second corner where a small Chinese arch stands. Turn left to Thannon Mittaphap Thai-China and walk until you reach the end of the road signaled by another Chinese arch. Turn right and walk until you reach Wat Traimit where another intersection awaits. Turn left at the intersection and you have reached Yaowarat road aka Chinatown. </u><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0WMz5Q_I0-E/UBtBIXrAdRI/AAAAAAAABw0/vD97DhNFTO4/s1600/2011-10-03+15.10.05.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0WMz5Q_I0-E/UBtBIXrAdRI/AAAAAAAABw0/vD97DhNFTO4/s640/2011-10-03+15.10.05.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yaowarat Road</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iZ7K8Flv-rQ/UBtBXWCT8-I/AAAAAAAABw8/SW7AUgF2I3I/s1600/2011-10-03+15.14.08.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iZ7K8Flv-rQ/UBtBXWCT8-I/AAAAAAAABw8/SW7AUgF2I3I/s640/2011-10-03+15.14.08.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Where'd all the meat go?</td></tr>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MuCV64FRZsE/UBtBlrTETrI/AAAAAAAABxE/QFMYgQ0TN40/s1600/2011-10-03+15.25.38.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MuCV64FRZsE/UBtBlrTETrI/AAAAAAAABxE/QFMYgQ0TN40/s640/2011-10-03+15.25.38.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I returned to Khao San for some last minute food tripping, then rode the ferry and BTS back to the hotel to meet up with JC. After saying our goodbyes to the endearing hotel staff, we took a cab back to the airport. We had dinner in one of restaurants inside after crossing immigration. I wandered around the shops waiting for boarding, not really wanting to go home yet.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Food at the Airport, okay lang</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">BYE</td></tr>
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I enjoyed my first visit toThailand. Bangkok is surely one of the best cities in the world although not THE best as the magazine claims, but still, a fine destination for sightseeing, street food and meeting wonderful people. Life around the Chao Phraya River is fascinating, sticky mango rice is now one of my all time favorite street food, I would love to return to Khao San Road and Chatuchak, and the Thai people are truly friendly, unassuming, and hospitable all which makes this trip memorable.<br />
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Thanks again for reading my blog, feel free to post your comments. Salamat.</div>
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<b>Helpful Links:</b><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span>
<a href="http://wikitravel.org/en/Bangkok" target="_blank">Wikitravel Bangkok</a><br />
<a href="http://www.pinoyexchange.com/forums/showthread.php?t=458079" target="_blank">PEX Bangkok</a><br />
<a href="http://www.bangkok.com/" target="_blank">Bangkok Guide</a><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span>Arman Gohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13841824518243724166noreply@blogger.com51tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6036390446560410222.post-39808105885886419012012-08-08T13:21:00.000+08:002012-08-08T13:21:04.660+08:00Chatuchak Market & Sunday Mall Hopping (Day 4)<div style="text-align: justify;">
After a disastrous 3rd day, we were hoping that a Sunday retail shopping therapy would give us redemption. Around 10 am, we made our way to <b>Chatuchak Market</b>, Asia's biggest flea market. With more than 8,000 stalls, it is not possible for you to cover everything in a day. It can get very crowded, confusing, noisy, smelly and sweaty. Also, the heat is brutal especially around noon. To add to that, your chance of getting lost is high. Chatuchak offers the most variety of goods for sale that I have ever seen, however, most of the shops are open on the weekends only. I really enjoyed my time in Chatuchak Market. It offers something for everyone, it's rough around the edges, it abounds with eateries and food stalls, it's a sensory overload and it's very accessible. There are really good bargains to be had with a little bargaining skills. If you happen to see an item you want, haggle and if you agree with the price, buy it because you probably will not be able to relocate the store once you head elsewhere. Also, some of the stores have items that they sell exclusively.<br />
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<u>To get here, take the Metro to Kampheng Phet Station. You can also take the BTS to Mo Chit Station, but the Metro exit gets you to the most interesting section of the market already.</u><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">BTS Wong Wian Yai</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ganda ng Metro Terminal nila</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Konti pa ang tao sa umaga</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">LOL!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Clock Tower at the center of the action</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Map of Chatuchak</td></tr>
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After a long day at the market, we were off to Siam Square, the main shopping district in Bangkok. We first went to the <b>Mah Boon Krong Center</b>, Bangkok's most popular mall. MBK is an indoor version of Chatuchak because most of the goods selling in the latter can be found here at slightly higher prices. It's still possible to haggle but only a little. We also ate at the MBK Food Court at the fifth floor. The food choices are plenty with local and Asian stalls, and cheap as well. The place was packed, noisy and uninspiring compared to other food courts in Siam's swankier malls. Unfortunately, I picked the wrong stall, as my Kao Pad was awful.</div>
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<u>To get here, take the BTS to National Stadium Station which is connected to the mall.</u><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">MBK, eye catching</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Follow him on Twitter @TheRealJcGo</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Outdoor market at the foot of National Stadium</td></tr>
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After a quick scan and merienda at MBK, we walked to nearby twin malls <b>Siam Center</b> and <b>Siam Discovery</b>. Both malls are trendy fashion outlets catering to the middle class market. Siam Center is older and caters mostly to teens and kids, while Siam Discovery has more mature contents and is a little pricier. The majority of items for sale are clothes, handbags and footwear. Tenants include some popular international brands like Armani and footwear giants Adidas Originals and Nike. A bridge at the fourth floors also connect the two malls.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Siam Center</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Siam Discovery</td></tr>
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Next up, just besides Siam Center, we went to the very upmarket <b>Siam Paragon</b>. It is a very large mall that houses designer brands like Louis Vuitton & Gucci and car brands BMW & Porsche. Also inside is a huge cineplex, a supermarket, and a basement food court. Think of it as a much grander version of Greenbelt in Makati. Shopping in such an expensive mall, really doesn't suit my budget, but dinning in one of its fine restaurants, I can make an exception! I forgot the name of the restaurant we ate in, but I remember that it was Thai and the food was decent albeit expensive. <br />
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Underneath Siam Paragon is one of the largest underground aquariums in Asia, <b>Siam Ocean World</b>. Entrance costs 950 baht, but there are also other attractions such as Glass Bottom Boat or Ocean Walk where you have to pay an additional fee. It's not any different from marine parks like Manila Ocean Park or the likes except that it's bigger.</div>
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Most of the malls in the Siam area are within close proximity to each other but if you want to go directly to Siam Paragon, <u>BTS Siam Station is connected to the mall.</u> In my opinion, the area surrounding Siam Station is the best base for travelers to stay in because of it's accessibility to 2 BTS lines, and numerous shopping and dinning options.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Siam Paragon</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ocean World at Siam Paragon</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pag may tira ka, hulog mo sa aquarium :D (joke)</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Soft shell crabs sarap!</td></tr>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DnYr9QfvJsY/UBsYddtEa9I/AAAAAAAABqw/sT314Akg0C0/s1600/1317564844765.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="384" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DnYr9QfvJsY/UBsYddtEa9I/AAAAAAAABqw/sT314Akg0C0/s640/1317564844765.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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The last mall on the list for today was <b>Central World Plaza</b>. This is the largest mall in Thailand and one of the largest in the world. Inside are mid-priced stores, a cineplex, a supermarket, a food court, a plethora of eating options, a hotel, an Isetan department store, a giant bookstore and an ice skating rink. Among the more notable tenants of the mall are Jim Thompson Silk, Uniqlo, MOS Burger, and Naraya. This is my favorite of all of Bangkok's malls, as it has the most interesting shops, a good layout, more flexible dinning options and a laid back ambience. Compared to other malls in Siam, Central World offers something for a wider range of consumers. As far as cost and quality are concerned, it'a a perfect balance of MBK and Siam Paragon. </div>
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<u style="text-align: justify;">From Siam Paragon / Station, it's an eight minute walk via clearly signposted covered pedestrian bridge. Chit Lom is the nearest BTS Station to Central World.</u><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Skybridge connected to Central World</td></tr>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hpZuhDd0aAE/UBsdS8A9iWI/AAAAAAAABrw/fGPaXc7wtPQ/s1600/2011-10-02+19.04.06.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hpZuhDd0aAE/UBsdS8A9iWI/AAAAAAAABrw/fGPaXc7wtPQ/s640/2011-10-02+19.04.06.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DSVxPo29iLE/UBsdZ_gJC9I/AAAAAAAABr4/3vn_Rz9z8Tk/s1600/Siamsquare-map.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="562" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DSVxPo29iLE/UBsdZ_gJC9I/AAAAAAAABr4/3vn_Rz9z8Tk/s640/Siamsquare-map.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Map of Siam Square</td></tr>
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Before packing it in, I walked around the area surrounding my hotel to look for some chow. I found a public market nearby and some roadside food stalls. Passed by some retail stores that were closing and a couple of convenience stores. In the end, I settled for some street food after chatting for a while with a friendly Thai vendor.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3VLrru3G0Go/UBsnAsnARNI/AAAAAAAABso/Jq3cj94_vp0/s1600/2011-10-01+21.24.07.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3VLrru3G0Go/UBsnAsnARNI/AAAAAAAABso/Jq3cj94_vp0/s640/2011-10-01+21.24.07.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Taksin Statue in Thonvuri</td></tr>
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<br />Arman Gohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13841824518243724166noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6036390446560410222.post-48057428668797673282012-08-08T13:20:00.002+08:002012-08-08T13:20:33.732+08:00The Floating Market, Bridge over the River Kwai and Tiger Temple (Day 3)<div style="text-align: justify;">
We got up really early today because we availed of an organized tour at a travel agency in Khao San Road yesterday. The tour covers Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, the Bridge over the River Kwai, and Tiger Temple costing 2,000 baht with free lunch, exclusive of admission fees. Now before you crucify me for taking a tour, hear me out. DIY to the floating market is easy, but getting to Tiger Temple is really complicated because transportation options are almost non-existent. It's very far from Bangkok, in a remote location and we would have had to take a combination of bus and long walk or hitchhiking. As bad traveler karma to me, I didn't enjoy this day and here's what happened.<br />
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We were picked up at the hotel lobby by a Toyota Hi-Ace, and assembled with other tourists at Khao San Road. It took us an hour and a half to get to the floating market thanks to our driver from hell. Despite repeatedly being told by other passengers to slow down, the racer was undeterred and got us to the finish line crazy fast!
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<b>Damnoen Saduak Floating Market</b> is the largest of Thailand's many floating markets, but also the biggest tourist trap. The market is filled with boat vendors clogging the artificial canals selling stuff from fresh fruits and vegetables to full meals. Boat tour costs 400 baht per hour per person plus compulsory tip at the end of the tour. The boat can fit four to five people. The market is exclusively catered for tourists and the price of goods are exorbitantly high, so haggle hard (400% or more mark-up). Aside from the boats, there are rows and rows of shops selling souvenirs, toys & fashion items; there's even a snake show booth! A quick heads up, boat vendors have "partner" shops they take you to where they get commissions from your purchases.</div>
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Getting back to land, I decided to check out the adjacent dry market, and the canal side activity. To be honest, aside from the beautiful pictures which you can brag to your friends, there isn't much to see. To me the place feels fake, overly commercialized, and overrated.<br />
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<u>If you will be commuting to Damnoen Saduak Floating Market from Bangkok, take a taxi to the Southern Bus Terminal (Sai Tai) and ride Bus # 78 which will lead you directly to Damnoen Saduak Terminal for 50 baht taking 2 hours. Alternatively, a taxi from Bangkok to the floating market costs 1,500 baht.</u>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Floating Market</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tinakot mo na sarili mo bayad ka pa</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Di ko kinaya pakikipagbaratan kay ate</td></tr>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KZsin2j8cPM/UBprugyCIeI/AAAAAAAABi0/uXxLcpQmHbI/s1600/2011-10-01+09.48.50.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KZsin2j8cPM/UBprugyCIeI/AAAAAAAABi0/uXxLcpQmHbI/s640/2011-10-01+09.48.50.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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We were taken to a roadside restaurant for free lunch where we shared tasteless local food with a Euro group. Afterwards, the van led us to Kanchanaburi Province for our appointment with the Bridge Over the River Kwai and nearby JEATH War Museum. The border to Myanmar is also located in the province.</div>
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The <b>Japan, England, America, Australia, Thailand and Holland (JEAATH?) War Museum</b> displays items from the Death Railway with images & depictions of the condition of Prisoners of War (POW) during the construction of the Bridge. Entrance costs 40 baht and includes admission to the Wat Chau Chumpon Temple inside. The museum actually holds some insights about the war. It is compact and offers a good view of the Bridge. Sadly, it is in very bad condition. Most of the stuff are fading and worn out, there is no semblance of order, and simply put: Serious Maintenance is Needed!<br />
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<u>To get to Kanchanaburi on your own, go to the Southern Bus Terminal in Bangkok then take the first class express A/C Bus (#81?) to Kanchanaburi Terminal. Journey takes 2 hours costing 100 baht. Most of the sights in the province are not accessible by public buses so your best bet will be hiring one of the few taxis at the terminal for a day.</u> <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">May flag din Pilipinas dito, di lang nakuha</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chau Champon Temple</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grabe naman ang sinapit nila</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A view of the Bridge & River Kwai</td></tr>
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About a minute walk from the museum is the <b>Bridge Over the River Kwai.</b> It's a bridge made famous by the 1957 Oscar winning film "The Bridge on the River Kwai" by David Lean. The bridge is part of the Death Railway which stretches over in 250 miles and was completed in just a year. The railway from Burma to Thailand is given such name because many lives were lost due to unfavorable working conditions during it's construction at the time of World War II. The bridge is now a tourist attraction, where you can walk on foot, ride a tourist train and where local trains regularly pass through. The significance of this place is a question of whether you have seen or read about it or not. To me it's just a plain old bridge with a good backdrop scenery, because admittedly, I've never heard about it before and I don't have any attachment to it because this isn't part of my history.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tourist train</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Coconut Ice Cream, nice!</td></tr>
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The last stop of our tour is <b>Tiger Temple</b>, also known as Wat Pa Luang Bat. Founded in 1994, it's as a forest temple and sanctuary for wild animals (mostly tigers) operated by Buddhist monks. Admission to the temple costs 600 baht for the chance to get real close to these amazing creatures. More of a zoo than temple, you can have your photo taken right beside an unnaturally tame (drugged?) tiger or play with them in their cages for an additional fee. You are not allowed to wear bright colors and you will be accompanied by guides who will escort you to the tigers and take your photos using your camera. <br />
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<u>To get here from the Kanchanaburi Terminal, take a local bus heading to Sai Yok then tell the driver you are going to Tiger Temple. You will be dropped off at a place with a signboard indicating entrance to Tiger Temple. From here it's 1 kilometer away from the main entrance, you can hitchhike with a tour bus going there or walk.</u> Still want to do-it-yourself in Kanchanaburi? Didn't think so :D<br />
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Now, would you pay that money and waste half a day just for that? I wish I had just gone to Ayutthaya instead but it already happened and I just roll with it and advise you not to make the mistake I did. There are better ways to spend your days in Thailand; this just isn't one of them.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Inside Tiger Temple</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tapang no?!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pay more, get to play with the tigers</td></tr>
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It was already late when the van dropped us off at Khao San Road where had dinner at a hole-in-the-wall noodle house near the Tha Arthit pier. They serve ok tasting noodles (not bad but didn't love it) at very cheap prices, and I think we were the only foreigners dinning. Afterwards, we took a cab (Ferry Closes 5:30 pm) and headed back to the hotel to rest.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Khao San comes alive at night</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crowds gather at the street performers</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The only item on the menu</td></tr>
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</div>Arman Gohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13841824518243724166noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6036390446560410222.post-48439566374872055032012-08-08T13:20:00.000+08:002012-10-03T15:52:02.269+08:00The Chao Phraya River, Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Wat Arun and Khao San Road (Day 2)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I had just watched a scene in the Thai movie <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1621642/" target="_blank">Bangkok Traffic Love Story</a> where the female lead is going home from work, exhausted, but is made to suffer endless traffic. She goes on switching from different types of transportation from taxis, tuk-tuks to riding a ferry. The ferry passes through along a lot of vivid images that stuck into my mind going into this trip. Now, I got the chance to see them for real.<br />
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Literally, this is our first day. We explore the district of <b>Rattanakosin</b>, the historic center of Bangkok. This is home to most of the must see sights and should be part of every traveler's itinerary.<br />
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We had delicious breakfast at the hotel. The main meal is set but we could help ourselves with as many breads, fruits, juice and milk as we like.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-N9gAr-3mAnk/UB_GxeBuIgI/AAAAAAAAB34/i6bNGDHv8w0/s1600/2011-10-02+08.38.24.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-N9gAr-3mAnk/UB_GxeBuIgI/AAAAAAAAB34/i6bNGDHv8w0/s640/2011-10-02+08.38.24.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Breakfast Area</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hainanese Chicken Rice Yum!</td></tr>
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<u>We rode the BTS to Saphan Taksin Station then walked to Sathorn (Taksin) pier just below the BTS. A single journey ferry ticket costs 15 baht and most of the sights are accessible by orange, blue flag boats of the Chao Phraya Express.</u> DO NOT make the mistake that we made of buying the tourist pass which costs 150 baht! You won't be able to spend half of that in one day even if you ride multiple times.<br />
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The journeys take place at the <b>Chao Phraya River</b> which spreads from Bangkok to the Gulf of Thailand. It fascinates me that it functions as an important transportation gateway and is a way of life for the locals. Ferries, cargo ships, small boats, and river taxis regularly pass through these waters. You will also see students, office workers, monks and a lot of Thais pack the ferries especially during rush hour. On both sides of the river are beautiful temples, lively markets, riverside hotels and traditional houses which makes for a picturesque experience.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lmh1LF3kQdk/UB_HZfuHK5I/AAAAAAAAB4Q/k--0lafdJpM/s1600/2011-09-30+10.35.40.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lmh1LF3kQdk/UB_HZfuHK5I/AAAAAAAAB4Q/k--0lafdJpM/s640/2011-09-30+10.35.40.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Iconic</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Riding Tourist Boat, how embarrassing!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Luxury is waiting here</td></tr>
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Our first destination is the <b>Grand Palace</b> complex. The palace was the former residence of the King of Thailand and the most popular tourist attraction in Bangkok. Entrance costs 400 baht (Thais can enter for free), and the ticket is also valid for Dusit Palace and Vimanmanek Mansion in the Dusit district. A strict dress code is implemented where men must wear long pants & T-shirts while women must wear attires that cover the upper arms and legs down to the thigh. Sarongs can be borrowed at the entrance for free with a 200 baht deposit refundable upon return. Sights not to miss out include: huge demon temple guards, the retelling of Ramayana on the walls, the Dusit hall, the Chakri hall and the Phra Maha Montien.<br />
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Also inside the palace, is the <b>Wat Phra Kaew</b> which houses the elusive <b>Emerald Buddha</b>. Carved from a single block of jade, the statue is the most sacred image in Thailand. The Buddha has had a long and colorful history and is supposed to bring good luck to the country. You are supposed to take off your shoes before entering the temple, and proper respect must be shown.<br />
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The architecture is beautiful throughout the complex but I was really impressed with the attention to detail placed upon each structure. Every minute detail must have taken a lot of time and made with a delicate touch; and when you consider how many there were made, you have to take your hat off to them! Lastly, whatever serenity that this place must have exuded in the past is all gone thanks to the hordes of people visiting daily.<br />
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<u>To get here, take the Chao Phraya Express ferry to Tha Chang Pier. You will see the white walls of the Palace immediately on your right, cross the street & walk straight for 2 minutes until you reach the entrance gate.</u><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Grand Palace seen from the ferry</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ramayana on the walls</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Emerald Buddha</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I've seen this pose way too many time, I swear</td></tr>
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We left the Palace around noon and headed to <b>Rub Ar Roon Cafe</b> for lunch. It's a hole-in-the-wall restaurant offering authentic and unassuming traditional Thai food. Fairly inexpensive, most of the items on the menu are spicy, but I like spciy, and the food we ordered were full of flavors and delicious.<br />
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<u>To get here, go back to the road leading to the Tha Chang pier then at the corner, turn left and walk straight for five minutes until you reach the cafe.</u> It is opposite the entrance to Wat Pho.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ADklhpwvGvw/UB_JoBVXy7I/AAAAAAAAB6M/NV7pah0ygDo/s1600/2011-09-30+13.19.44.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ADklhpwvGvw/UB_JoBVXy7I/AAAAAAAAB6M/NV7pah0ygDo/s640/2011-09-30+13.19.44.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rub Ar Roon Cafe</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Delicious!</td></tr>
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Before we proceed, I would like to tell you that Bangkok is really hot and humid especially around 10 am to 2 pm. You will get sweaty, sunburned and your body will feel sticky. You might also get dizzy. Be prepared. You've been warned!<br />
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Often overshadowed by it's two Wat neighbors, the <b>Wat Pho</b> is a temple of superlatives that is worthy of your time. This is the largest temple in Bangkok and probably the oldest too. Inside is the Reclining Buddha, the largest of its kind and it's most famous attraction. There are also about a thousand Buddhas spread across the compound and numerous Chedis of all shapes and sizes. Entrance costs 50 baht, and there are volunteer guides available which will show you around for a small donation.<br />
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Wat Pho has an ancient feel to it, because you can see that it's worn out, and lacking renovations. The atmosphere is more peaceful because there are significantly fewer visitors here. Even when you touch the structures you feel the wear and tear of their long existence.<br />
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Another reason for visiting is the <b>Wat Pho Massage School</b> where you can learn how to give a proper, bone-crunching traditional Thai massage or experience one yourself. The full body massage costs 480 baht an hour or you can try the foot reflexology massage for 360 baht per 45 minutes, like we did. My feet were already rundown from continuous walking but after the spa, I genuinely felt the tiredness go away.<br />
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<u>To get here take the ferry to Tha Thien pier then turn right and cross the street.</u> It is located next to the Grand Palace, and also opposite Rub Ar Roon Cafe.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PjMEPT2_I88/UCD-eJ8JngI/AAAAAAAAB-g/gFGDeRdlzgk/s1600/2011-09-30+13.25.00.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PjMEPT2_I88/UCD-eJ8JngI/AAAAAAAAB-g/gFGDeRdlzgk/s640/2011-09-30+13.25.00.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Weird "western" temple guards</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Psssstt...</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kasing haba ng olympic size pool</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Attention to detail</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Buddha Factory</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Galing magmasahe ni manong!</td></tr>
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One of the most awesome experience I had riding the ferry was seeing the <b>Wat Arun</b> for the first time. Also called the Temple of Dawn, this is the most photographed image in Thailand. It' also the tallest temple in Thailand, and dare I say, the most beautiful! Entrance costs 50 baht, and is well worth it for a chance to climb the central prang and see a bird's-eye view of the Chao Phraya, and the rest of Bangkok. The temple is decorated with broken porcelain pieces and images of celestial beings and Buddhist statues. There are also four minor prangs surrounding the central which when viewed makes for perfect symmetry.<br />
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I really admire its fine craftsmanship and top class architecture. Also, the perfect location allows for unobstructed views and stunning images. Of the three adjacent temples, I like this one the most.<br />
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Tip: Be sure to see Wat Arun during sunset for a spectacular view. I won't post an image here so as not to spoil it for you. See for yourselves!<br />
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<u>To get to Wat Arun, take the short cross river ferry from Tha Thien pier to Wat Arun pier for only 5 baht.</u><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rc6ZAMc7Ot0/UB_MXYhL6vI/AAAAAAAAB8o/zQc9VfCA8Xk/s1600/2011-10-03+16.59.41.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rc6ZAMc7Ot0/UB_MXYhL6vI/AAAAAAAAB8o/zQc9VfCA8Xk/s640/2011-10-03+16.59.41.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tha Thie Pier</td></tr>
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<tr><td><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uN3GfDmA7-Y/UB_LS7OAazI/AAAAAAAAB7s/_aEWawq0AIg/s1600/IMG_20110930_110056.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uN3GfDmA7-Y/UB_LS7OAazI/AAAAAAAAB7s/_aEWawq0AIg/s640/IMG_20110930_110056.jpg" width="478" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Wat Arun, a sight to behold!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View of Historic Bangkok from the top of Wat Arun</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Small boat connecting Wat Pho and Wat Arun</td></tr>
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For our last stop of the day, we head to the backpacker ghetto called <b>Khao San Road</b>. The infamous Khao San, is home to cheap guesthouses, budget hotels, cafes, bars, restaurants, travel agencies, massage parlors, fashion stores and food stalls. It stretches almost a kilometer long and has now spread to Rambuttri street and Phra Arthit road. The vibe is upbeat, crazy & carefree and one of the best things to do is find some place to sit and go people watching! The street food is incredibly varied, one of the best anywhere in the world not to mention cheap. You can choose from pad thai, tom yang kung, satay, roti pancake, kebab, balls on stick, local beers, fresh fruit shakes, exotic bugs to my beloved sticky mango rice among many more.</div>
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I really like Khao San Road. This is the highlight of my trip. The prices are low, there is always an interesting activity to do, the food is fantastic, the atmosphere is fun and you get a chance to have genuine interactions with the locals. While admittedly not the safest of areas, as pickpockets and scam artists abound, with a little caution and common sense, you get to see Bangkok unpretentious, and as it really is.</div>
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<u>To get here, take the ferry to Phra Arthit pier. Once you reach the road at Phra Arthit, cross the street and turn left. Walk until you reach a 7-Eleven store then turn right at the alley which will lead you to Rambuttri street, turn left and walk until you reach the end of the paved street at Chakrabongse road. Turn right and walk for 3 minutes until you see the signpost across the street indicating the entrance to Khao San Road.</u></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dKN9tyto0n8/UB_MoPMQN2I/AAAAAAAAB88/9fxP2MI0mcU/s1600/2011-09-30+17.15.12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dKN9tyto0n8/UB_MoPMQN2I/AAAAAAAAB88/9fxP2MI0mcU/s640/2011-09-30+17.15.12.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">On the way to Khao San from Rambuttri Street</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Khao San Road</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Tasty Pad Thai found here"</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I would go back to Bangkok just for Sticky Mango Rice!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Map of Rattanakosin</td></tr>
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Arman Gohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13841824518243724166noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6036390446560410222.post-58949233058667925612012-08-08T13:19:00.000+08:002012-08-08T13:19:06.527+08:00Bangkok..Suvarnabhumi Airport and Baiyoke Sky (Day 1)<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Bangkok: The Land of Legendary Street food / Venice of Southeast Asia</b></div>
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In the 90's my parents went to Bangkok on an organized tour. They came back unimpressed, forever comparing the city to Manila. My folks would say: "Bangkok is chaotic, dirty, has fewer malls, fewer sights and dangerous. Mas maganda pa ang Maynila diyan". Fast forward to 2011, Bangkok has just been named <a href="http://www.cnngo.com/bangkok/visit/bangkok-named-worlds-best-city-travel-leisure-magazine-984449" target="_blank">the World's Best City</a> by Travel & Leisure Magazine and Manila is not even on the list, so naturally, I became intrigued. Could it be that Bangkok has rapidly progressed past Manila over the last decade, or were my parents unable to see the real beauty of Bangkok in an organized tour, or maybe the magazine got it wrong? Whatever it was, I was going to find out and I was going to do it my way DIY!<br />
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The travel date was from September 29 to Ocotober 3, 2011, my brother JC was my travel companion, and we arrived in the afternoon at <b>Suvarnabhumi Airport</b> courtesy of Cebu Pacific. Filipinos can enter Thailand visa free for 30 days. I was very impressed with their airport, it's sleek, modern, massive, new, elegant and uniquely Thai. It's complete with amenities such as money changers, sofa beds, restaurants, retail shops, lounges, spa center, and information area. This is an airport that I would be comfortable and safe sleeping in; an airport the Thais should be proud of. </div>
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<u>To get from Suvarnabhumi Airport to the city center, you can either take (a) the Airport Rail Link (fastest) to Phaya Thai Station where you can connect to the BTS (Bangkok Mass Transit System) and onwards to your destination for 45 baht, or (b) you can follow the "Public Taxi" sign just outside the airport and take an ordinary metered taxi. Upon boarding, you will be given a ticket for your safety and for complaints. The fare should not exceed 400 baht plus two toll fees of 25 and 45 baht respectively.</u> Fortunately for us, a driver was already waiting for us at the arrival area because we availed of the free pick-up from our hotel.<br />
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We stayed at <a href="http://www.bangkokloftinn.com/" target="_blank">Bangkok Loft Inn</a> for 1,300 baht per night. In all of the hotels I've ever stayed at, I got the best value for money here. The rooms are spacious, new and clean, wifi is fast and free, you also get fabulous amenities like split level aircon, a ref, flatscreen TV, a safe, a desk with a chair, soft beds, and a large bathroom. They provide free airport pick-up, free set breakfast, free use of desktop PC & printer, and free use of some board games & DVD player. You can also borrow books from their mini library. All these seem great but what I like most is the excellent service and hospitality of the staff from the driver, waitress, bell boys & housekeeping, to the front desk.</div>
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Here's a list of stuff that I remembered about them: We were always greeted warmly by the staff; they gave me useful travel tips on what to see and where to eat; they told us where to get the best exchange rates (Thonburi Exchange, even accept Philippine Pesos); on a day that we were out early for a tour they packed breakfast for us; I saw them give a hotel guest a complimentary cake upon knowing it was her birthday; and on our return to the airport, they got us a metered taxi.<br />
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The only drawback I can think of is the location. There isn't much to do at night and it takes 25 minutes to get to the city center. The nearest BTS stop is Wong Wian Yai Station; an eight minute walk from the hotel.<br />
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Hotels in Bangkok are very cheap, offer lots of perks, and Thai service is almost always outstanding.<br />
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<b>Here are the hotels which I recommend:</b><br />
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- Bangkok Loft Inn (Thonburi)</div>
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- Wendy House (cheap, basic, but in a great location) (Siam)</div>
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- Hansar Bangkok (Siam)</div>
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- The LIT (Siam)</div>
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- Sivatel (Value for money) (2 Station from Siam)</div>
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- Citypoint (Value for money) (2 Station from Siam)</div>
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* There are too many good hotels to list, it's just a matter of preference whether you want to be close to shopping (Siam) or streetfood and nightlife (Khao San Road)<br />
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Traffic is always terrible in Bangkok, and it was rush hour, so it took us 2 hours to get to the hotel. After checking-in, we decided to have buffet dinner at the revolving restaurant at <b>Baiyoke Sky Hotel</b>, the tallest building in Bangkok. Located at the Pratunam area, you will pass by a lot of sidewalk vendors, smelly, polluted streets, and dark alleys to get here. The international buffet restaurant is located at the 78th floor and costs 800 baht inclusive of admission to the revolving roof deck at the 84th floor. The food is mediocre, stations are not refilled regularly, the food is cold and bland and the spread is generic. All this, makes me believe that I paid for the panoramic views instead of the buffet.<br />
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The observatory includes a mini-museum, a bar, an amusement center and an open air section which is both very cool and vertigo inducing. There isn't much to see at the top, as the buildings aren't snap worthy, not even close to what you see in Hong Kong or Shanghai, but it's a good way to familiarize yourself with the city's layout.<br />
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<u>To get here, you can take the Airport Rail Link to Ratchaprarop Station then walk for 2 minutes to the tallest building you can see which you won't miss.</u> And while I don't recommend going to the Baiyoke Sky, I implore you to continue reading to day 2 where our fun in Bangkok starts!</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Round 2</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mini museum at the observatory</td></tr>
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<br />Arman Gohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13841824518243724166noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6036390446560410222.post-19747625177960914462012-07-16T15:25:00.001+08:002012-08-02T09:20:23.135+08:00Lantau without the Buddha & the Mouse, Plus Goodbyes for Now (Day 5)<div style="text-align: justify;">
Our flight back to Manila was scheduled 5 pm, so we still had half a day in Hong Kong and we decided to go to <b>Lantau Island</b>. This area houses the Tian Tan Buddha, Ngong Ping Village and Cable Car, the Po Lin Monastery, the fishing village of Tai O, a Citygate Outlet, and most famously, Hong Kong Disneyland.<br />
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<u>Most of these spots can be found near the Tung Chung Station of the MTR where there are easy connections on foot, bus or cable car.</u> To get to <b>Disneyland</b>, <u>get off at MTR Sunny Bay Station, then transfer to a Disney train which leads to the park entrance.</u> It takes almost an hour to get to Lantau Island from the city center.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The long interchange at Central Station</td></tr>
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Our first stop was the <b>Citygate Outlet Mall</b> which is connected to the Tung Chung Station. As the name implies, this is an outlet mall, where mid priced brands like Nike, Adidas, Giordano, Nautica and the likes sell their unsold merchandise of the previous seasons at discounted prices. For me, the discounts and sales offered at the Citygate do not represent a good deal. The discounts range from 15 to 40% on old items that would naturally deserve a reduction in price cause they're old. Because most members of my family are shopaholics, we easily burned a few hours here. We ate at the Food Republic food court at the top floor from where you have a view of the cable car going to Ngong Ping.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Inside the Citygate Outlet</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hainanese Chicken Rice</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View of Tung Chung Station from the food court</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Couldn't find a decent map</td></tr>
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We weren't able to see the rest of Lantau Island because of time constraints and because my dad is paranoid on being late for anything, so we headed back to the hotel for checkout and then we were on our way to the airport. We got to the airport early....which sucks, but I just had to be content with exploring the airport which come to think of it isn't all that bad. I just prefer spending more hours on the city rather than the airport. Moving on, I checked out the shops, ate more Chinese food, explored all corners and bought some last minute souvenirs for .............................. wait for it........................... myself.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">HK's newest mall</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chek Lap Kok Airport</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of my favorite pics of the trip</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Airplane Museum</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">NBA 2k12 anyone?</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rB_UMy9DBdc/UBnTeWs_W5I/AAAAAAAABXE/IT55tkdcLGY/s1600/IMG_20110804_154955.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rB_UMy9DBdc/UBnTeWs_W5I/AAAAAAAABXE/IT55tkdcLGY/s640/IMG_20110804_154955.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cute</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Train to boarding gates</td></tr>
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Looking back, I always enjoy my visits to Hong Kong and Macau (to any city for that matter). I like shopping at Nathan Road and always finding something to buy. I like eating Cantonese food which tastes like Filipino Chinese food. I envy their comprehensive public transportation system where riding the MTR will take you almost anywhere. I like feeling nostalgic when I ride the Star Ferry and the Peak Tram with a view of Central's postcard material skyline. I like the Macau freebies and experiencing old Macau's Portuguese charm side by side with its modern casinos. Most of all, I like getting lost, scared, excited and amazed all at the same time as only travel can do.</div>
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I have arrived at the conclusion of my first ever travel blog series. Thank you for reading, I hope you've enjoyed it and helped you in any way about Hong Kong. Please feel free to post questions, suggestions and whatever you feel at the comments section. I will try to respond to the best as I can. Salamat.<br />
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<b>Helpful Links:</b><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.pinoyexchange.com/forums/showthread.php?t=532044" target="_blank">PEX Guide Hong Kong</a><br />
<a href="http://wikitravel.org/en/Hong_Kong" target="_blank">Wikitravel Hong Kong</a><br />
<a href="http://www.pinoyexchange.com/forums/showthread.php?t=533422" target="_blank">PEX Guide Macau</a><br />
<a href="http://wikitravel.org/en/Macau" target="_blank">Wikitravel Macau</a> </div>
<br />Arman Gohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13841824518243724166noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6036390446560410222.post-63829780611313141512012-07-16T15:25:00.000+08:002012-08-08T11:03:47.554+08:00Departures, Causeway Bay and Central (Day 4)<div style="text-align: justify;">
I woke up to the view of elderly people practicing Taichi on my window, and was half expecting my Lola to be among them (don't bet on it!). We had breakfast at a nameless hole in the wall Chinese restaurant beside 7-Eleven and opposite New Yaohan. Up front is a takeout counter and dine-in customers are served at the second floor. There is no English on the menu, and the rude staff do not speak English either so ordering was an adventure. Surprisingly, the food were delicious especially the siomai which tasted like it came from a top Chinese restaurant, and everyone in the group seemed satisfied with their orders. After eating, we returned to the hotel, packed up and made the return trip to Hong Kong.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Priceless View</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Place for breakfast</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Last minute sightseeing</td></tr>
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We arrived around noon at the China Ferry Terminal and had lunch at <b>Cafe De Coral</b>, a Chinese fast food chain located near the ferry ticket counter. While most of my family didn't enjoy their food, I actually loved mine. I ordered a pork chop meal in spaghetti-like sauce with pineapple on the side served with yang chow fried rice plus iced tea, which ranks as one of the most delicious pork chop variations I have ever had.</div>
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After lunch, we took the taxi back to YMCA. We rested for a while before heading back out. In case you're wondering how far YMCA is from the ferry terminal on foot, it is 15 to 20 minutes brisk walk.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hello again, Hong Kong!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cafe De Coral</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sarap!</td></tr>
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Around 3 pm, we headed to <b>Causeway Bay</b>. <u>We took the MTR to Causeway Bay Station which is in the Blue Line.</u> If you are going DIY in Hong Kong, I suggest that you buy the Octopus Card which is a convenient and rechargeable card used on the MTR, bus, tram, and star ferry. You can buy it in the airport or at MTR stations for HK$ 100 (50 deposit which is refundable, 50 load); you can reload at the MTR stations or 7-Elevens.</div>
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Causeway Bay is a district famous for shopping located in Hong Kong Island; a less touristy version of Tsim Tsa Tsui. First up, we went to the Times Square Mall above the MTR Exit A. We then parted ways as we had different interests in shopping. Like Tsim Sha Tsui, you could easily spend hours checking out the establishments in the main streets and surrounding side streets in Causeway Bay. There are many interesting local and foreign fashion stores and retail shops in the area. There seems to be a branch of the same shops in every corner. I always go to the Adidas Originals located in a side street near Park Lane Hotel, as well as the Giordano store near Times Square, not because it sells anything special, but to check if a friend still works there. In our last visit, we got to know a teen aged Chinese male working in Giordano. He was nice, engaging, and spoke decent English, he even told us where he lived and invited us over but we politely declined. Unfortunately, he was no longer working in Giordano so that's that.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Spread IPhones instead!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Entrance to Times Square</td></tr>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cEvF2gHbdiw/UBnFRK0jgBI/AAAAAAAABTY/f124rHZNalc/s1600/2011-08-03+16.35.22.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cEvF2gHbdiw/UBnFRK0jgBI/AAAAAAAABTY/f124rHZNalc/s640/2011-08-03+16.35.22.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">SOGO at the heart of Causeway Bay</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Closed to vehicles</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rRw1UD7PwV0/UBnFyD5HPGI/AAAAAAAABT0/MmXr1WOayZ0/s1600/map+causeway.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="534" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rRw1UD7PwV0/UBnFyD5HPGI/AAAAAAAABT0/MmXr1WOayZ0/s640/map+causeway.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Map of Causeway Bay</td></tr>
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Needing a change of scenery and because I wanted to check out shoes at the Adidas-Yohji Yamamoto store in the IFC Mall, we headed to <b>Central</b> <u>(Take the MTR to Central Station)</u>. Central, the business district of Hong Kong and heart of the MTR, is the gateway to Victoria Peak, the historic Peak Tram and the Midlevels Escalator. It is occupied by tall skyscrapers moonlighting as malls and flanked by bars and restaurants at nightlife area Lan Kwai Fong. Aside from Victoria Park, most of our kababayan OFWs hangout here, especially on Sundays. For some reason, I've never fully explored Central aside from the obvious sites, and I'd like to in future visits.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Elevated Walkway at Central</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sWW0Ej3Gi8Q/UBnIQeTrw4I/AAAAAAAABUU/MrKoDQ-RhzA/s1600/central_en.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="500" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sWW0Ej3Gi8Q/UBnIQeTrw4I/AAAAAAAABUU/MrKoDQ-RhzA/s640/central_en.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Map of Central</td></tr>
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We returned to Times Square and met up for dinner at <b>Crystal Jade Restaurant</b> located at the basement floor. We had to wait for a good 10 minutes before we got a table as there was a long queue from the hordes of people wanting to eat here. The food was delicious, well prepared and authentic Chinese but it wasn't special enough to warrant the long lines and steep pricing. After dinner, we headed back to the hotel to end the day.</div>
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<b>Just to put it out there, these are the restaurants that I recommend in Hong Kong:</b></div>
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- Maxim's Palace (Best Restaurant I've eaten in HK) (MTR Centra Exit A2, City Hall Back Entrance 2F)</div>
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- Din Tai Fung (Best Xiao Long Bao and Porkhop, expensive) (Silvercord Mall or Causeway Bay)</div>
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- Lin Heung Teahouse (Sheng Wan MTR Exit E2)</div>
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- Tao Heung Super 88 (Silvercord Mall)</div>
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- Triple O Burgers (Parang Brothers Burgers) (Time Square Basement or Harbour City)</div>
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- Mongkok Streetfood (Go here at night, for the best street food) (MTR Mongkok)</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yang Chow, Sweet & Sour Fish, Xia Long Bao, Soya Milk</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lost?</td></tr>
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<br /></div>Arman Gohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13841824518243724166noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6036390446560410222.post-50421018044305961862012-07-16T15:24:00.000+08:002012-08-01T22:31:26.447+08:00Senado Square, the Ruins of St. Paul and More Casinos (Day 3)<div style="text-align: justify;">
Today, I headed to <b>Senado Square</b> for a little sightseeing alone. <u>I walked to the street behind Hotel Sintra facing the Grand Emperor Hotel, then turned left at the corner from where its was a good 10 to 15 minutes walk before reaching the entrance to Senado Square on the right guided by signs.</u> I passed by a lot of clothing shops and some interesting European architecture along the way. The Square is composed of fine, old Portuguese buildings teeming with retail shops and restaurants, mixed with Ongpin styled alleys and backstreets. Vendors sell Chinese tapas (free tasting), egg tarts (<b>Koi Kei Bakery</b> is the most popular), local snacks, herbals and souvenirs. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kanto ng Senado Square</td></tr>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-T9YnAJgjAWY/UBkobW8-rnI/AAAAAAAABLw/n9LLRljG_rg/s1600/2011-08-02+10.36.57.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-T9YnAJgjAWY/UBkobW8-rnI/AAAAAAAABLw/n9LLRljG_rg/s640/2011-08-02+10.36.57.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fine Architecture</td></tr>
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<u>Turning right through St Dominic's Church and following the crowds uphill led me to Macau's most iconic landmark</u>, the <b>Ruins of St Paul</b>, a burned down church with only the facade left but still a sight to behold. The church holds a certain mystique about it, I guess with only the front surviving and a Catholic Church holding a symbolic importance to the Chinese. To its right is the Crypt and Museum of Sacred Art, the Museum of Macau and Macau Monte Fort. The whole area from the Square to the Ruins is a must visit for everyone coming to Macau.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">St. Dominic's Church</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bUCbIvDUnsE/UBkqcwTIWjI/AAAAAAAABMY/GbF9JDMyLII/s1600/2011-08-02+11.03.42.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bUCbIvDUnsE/UBkqcwTIWjI/AAAAAAAABMY/GbF9JDMyLII/s640/2011-08-02+11.03.42.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The narrow alleys to the Ruins</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Masarap dito Taro Milk Tea at Egg Tart promise!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Ruins of St. Paul</td></tr>
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After returning to the hotel, with everyone up and ready, we skipped breakfast as it was close to lunch time anyways and decided to have brunch buffet at the <b>Royal Kitchen</b> located at the Grand Emperor Hotel (HK$ 108). They offer mostly Chinese seafood and dimsum, with some Western Food and drinks. I'm not a big fan of seafood so I concentrated mostly on the dimsum and the Macanese food. Food was sumptuous although I expected more variety (only half the spread of Dad's Ultimate Buffet).</div>
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<b>I haven't eaten in a lot of restaurants in Macau, but here's the ones I recommend:</b><br />
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- A Lorcha (near A-Ma Temple)<br />
- Robuchon A Galera (expensive) (Lisboa)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-F5jz4f5b_pI/UBks1Wzxs-I/AAAAAAAABNM/6Mog007RiL4/s1600/2011-08-02+13.55.55.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-F5jz4f5b_pI/UBks1Wzxs-I/AAAAAAAABNM/6Mog007RiL4/s640/2011-08-02+13.55.55.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Grand Emperor</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jackie Chan owns this, and the three guards</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Real gold bars inside the hotel</td></tr>
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After a satisfying lunch, we decided to walk to the adjacent casinos nearby. <u>We strolled past the Grand Emperor hotel going opposite the direction of the New Yaohan Mall, onward to Dr Mario Soares Avenue for about 5 to 10 minutes until we got to an oval. We then crossed the street to our first casino for the day,</u> <b>Wynn Macau.</b> We watched the fountain show first, outside near the entrance. Next, we headed inside for the free Tree of Prosperity show which happens every 30 minutes. The Wynn has a classy design (best seen at sunset where it look's like it's burning), and an even classier casino & hotel with steep prices to boot. Most of the shops at Wynn are above my pay scale so I just settled for window shopping and picture taking.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wynn Macau</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tree of Prosperity Show</td></tr>
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Feeling a little tired, the others decided to play slots, while me and JC continued on to <b>MGM Macau</b>. The building looks like a three layered cake with its trademark lion statue at the back. Inside are fancy restaurants, an elegant casino and the trendy Six Senses Spa.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wow!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sana dito na lang next fight ni Manny!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Inside MGM</td></tr>
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After a couple of hours on the casinos, my grandparents were still feeling tired and decided to return to the hotel while me, JC and my folks headed to the new <b>Galaxy Hotel</b> in Cotai. <u>We took a Wynn shuttle bus to the ferry terminal then switched into a Galaxy shuttle bus.</u> Galaxy is a decent hotel, design is solid, the insides look great but it was missing the wow factor that you'd get from admiring the massive size of Venetian, or the sleek and sophisticated design of Wynn or even the modern Chinese feel of Grand Lisboa. At that time, the Galaxy was the newest casino in Macau. A free floating diamond show awaits you shortly after entering the hotel. Also in the hotel is a wave pool and an artificial beach which we didn't get to see. After a little stroll we decided to head back to the hotel. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">First look at the Galaxy</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Diamond Fountain Show</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kryptonite?</td></tr>
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For dinner, I guided them back to <b>Senado Square</b> where we ate at a Chinese restaurant. I won't comment about the food, because it wasn't any good (I've even forgotten the resto's name). We also spent an hour or two wandering around the Square. The shopping at Senado Square can't compare to Hong Kong, and although it looks pretty with the lights on, I think this place is better seen in the morning.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looks tempting, but didn't eat here</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Instead, settled for this :(</td></tr>
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After returning to the hotel, my old folks decided to call it a night while me and JC went to more casinos. First up was <b>Grand Lisboa</b> where he got to witness (ehem...chicks pole dancing I mean... ehem) nothing. No matter what time of day you view it, the Grand Lisboa will get your attention. Tall, brash, and over-the-top looking like an over sized flower vase, a fitting look for the new building of Macau's traditional casino. Inside you'll see diamond displays and jewelry collections of owner Stanley Ho, the Michelin starred Robuchon a Galera and some of Macau's biggest gamblers.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grand Lisboa</td></tr>
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Connected via skybridge to Grand Lisboa is the older <b>Casino Lisboa</b>. The original casino in Macau, it now looks worn out, smells of cigarette and is in need of a makeover. It is still worth a visit to see its eye catching architecture and to experience the oldest and most famous casino in Macau.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tvHAvUcsvoM/UBk5x9asz2I/AAAAAAAABQg/CLTChPW8Wug/s1600/2011-08-02+19.08.20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tvHAvUcsvoM/UBk5x9asz2I/AAAAAAAABQg/CLTChPW8Wug/s640/2011-08-02+19.08.20.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The first, the orginal</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Skybridge connecting the Lisboas</td></tr>
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Lastly, we checked out <b>Sands Hotel</b> opposite the Fisherman's Wharf. The hotel is old, average and forgettable. We stayed for a while and just watched people gamble their kid's college fund before calling it a night ourselves.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Don't have a decent night pic, so I took a shot the day later</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Macau Tower</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Map of Macau</td></tr>
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<br />Arman Gohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13841824518243724166noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6036390446560410222.post-46122275542671989792012-07-16T15:22:00.000+08:002012-08-01T20:55:30.152+08:00Avenue of Stars, Ferry to Macau, and the Cotai Strip (Day 2)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Even though I slept really late last night, I woke up early to go jogging with my dad. When I'm in travel, I make it a point to maximize my limited time. I'm like a train with no brakes and unlimited fuel. </div>
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We started through the <b>Avenue of Stars</b> at the Waterfront Promenade where our trail led us past the hand prints of famous Chinese personalities in the film industry and a statue tribute of would-have-been UFC Featherweight champion Bruce Lee. I really appreciated just being able to soak in the peaceful early morning view of Victoria Harbour and its skyscrapers, while passing through some ultra expensive hotels in Kowloon. <br />
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We ended up at Hung Hom MTR Station which is amidst a swanky residential neighborhood where we took the MTR back to the hotel. Everyone was now awake so we headed to a nearby Mcdonalds for breakfast.
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sunrise at the Avenue of Stars</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Kt2xo1ToKY8/UBkas_Iz1XI/AAAAAAAABHc/l-pQoFv8mSs/s1600/IMG_1544.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Kt2xo1ToKY8/UBkas_Iz1XI/AAAAAAAABHc/l-pQoFv8mSs/s640/IMG_1544.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">UFC 200: Arman vs Bruce Lee</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vOkLVGz3VnM/UBkaxgCQ6uI/AAAAAAAABHk/hJ_stR1Hodo/s1600/IMG_1546.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vOkLVGz3VnM/UBkaxgCQ6uI/AAAAAAAABHk/hJ_stR1Hodo/s640/IMG_1546.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ujr4bRl7N2o/UBka0iW0oVI/AAAAAAAABHs/JKRXdxpf8So/s1600/IMG_1552.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ujr4bRl7N2o/UBka0iW0oVI/AAAAAAAABHs/JKRXdxpf8So/s640/IMG_1552.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Waking up early is worth it!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9iWkJOi7L0E/UBka35OfyZI/AAAAAAAABH0/xOYu9WshBvU/s1600/IMG_1561.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9iWkJOi7L0E/UBka35OfyZI/AAAAAAAABH0/xOYu9WshBvU/s640/IMG_1561.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hung Hom Station</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hKdhYLod3VE/UBka7aQMizI/AAAAAAAABH8/u5lRK-Rj1aE/s1600/IMG_20110801_080819.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hKdhYLod3VE/UBka7aQMizI/AAAAAAAABH8/u5lRK-Rj1aE/s640/IMG_20110801_080819.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Macaroni Soup with Burger, MCDO HK</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--JFmTAQYq8Y/UBka-pBT2rI/AAAAAAAABIE/vedWBR2ukMc/s1600/IMG_20110801_080830.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--JFmTAQYq8Y/UBka-pBT2rI/AAAAAAAABIE/vedWBR2ukMc/s640/IMG_20110801_080830.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Because we had a couple of hours to spare before our ferry trip to Macau, we decided to wander around Canton Road from the 1881 Heritage Building all the way to the <b>Harbour City Shopping Complex. </b>Harbour City houses signature shops and designer brands, 3 Marco Polo Hotels and a City Super food court and supermarket.<br />
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T8-bSeUyG9c/UBkcZmKgGAI/AAAAAAAABIM/KHV1WJF3yyU/s1600/2011-08-01+08.52.39.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T8-bSeUyG9c/UBkcZmKgGAI/AAAAAAAABIM/KHV1WJF3yyU/s640/2011-08-01+08.52.39.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-l8RyXCAW9Po/UBkcg6D2cII/AAAAAAAABIU/kROZTemWlow/s1600/IMG_20110801_085435.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-l8RyXCAW9Po/UBkcg6D2cII/AAAAAAAABIU/kROZTemWlow/s640/IMG_20110801_085435.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Old Clock Tower</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tGi9ITPayXk/UBkcl-lqFDI/AAAAAAAABIc/lYC64WByDU0/s1600/IMG_20110801_090414.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tGi9ITPayXk/UBkcl-lqFDI/AAAAAAAABIc/lYC64WByDU0/s640/IMG_20110801_090414.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">1881 Heritage Building</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GTXXWs5Ueqg/UBkc0PoGsSI/AAAAAAAABIk/hmRoWZj8AG4/s1600/2011-08-01+11.27.38.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GTXXWs5Ueqg/UBkc0PoGsSI/AAAAAAAABIk/hmRoWZj8AG4/s640/2011-08-01+11.27.38.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Bwab9pZFlAI/UBkdBuDyDVI/AAAAAAAABIw/t1FIaRhNMVI/s1600/2011-08-01+11.39.55.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Bwab9pZFlAI/UBkdBuDyDVI/AAAAAAAABIw/t1FIaRhNMVI/s640/2011-08-01+11.39.55.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Inside Harbour City</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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We arrived at the <b>China Ferry Terminal</b> and bought tickets from New World First Ferry for HK$ 133 one way each. <u>To get here, enter the China HK City Mall and go to the 2nd floor, it is located beside Harbor City after passing the Prince Hotel. It is 15 minutes walk from Tsim Sha Tsui MTR Station or you can take an inexpensive 5-minute taxi ride.</u><span style="color: red;"> </span> The ferry trip to Macau takes an hour, leaves on time, involves going through an immigration, and is definitely more comfortable than riding a plane or bus. Again, visa is not required for Filipinos, but you still have to bring your passport. It's actually weird that you have to go through an immigration because it's pretty much the same place, with the same people and government (yeah, yeah don't lecture me about the Special Adminstrative Region whatever...). Another gripe I have, is the difference in currencies. In HK and Macau, Hong Kong Dollar is accepted, while the Macau Pataca is not accepted in HK, which just makes no sense.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
The <b>Macau Maritime Ferry Terminal</b> is the arrival point for most visitors from Hong Kong, and hosts ticket counters, food shops and a mini department store. Just outside the entrance are Filipinos offering guide services. We actually tried this during our first time in Macau and the guides are knowledgeable around the area, give useful tips and help with ferry bookings. They charge a fair rate, and of course, we were able to aid our countrymen.<br />
<br />
<u>One of the cool things about Macau is the free
shuttle bus provided by most of the casinos from their hotel to the
ferry
terminal round trip. Some of the bigger casinos even have free services
to Macau airport, the Taipa ferry terminal and the border gate to China</u><u>.</u> Upon arrival, we rode the free shuttle bus to our chosen hotel, <a href="http://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g664891-d306244-Reviews-Hotel_Sintra-Macau.html" target="_blank">Hotel Sintra</a>. <u>You can also ride the Lisboa Shuttle Bus to the hotel or the Grand Emperor Shuttle Bus which is just across the street.</u> Considering the great location (near the historic city center, New Yaohan Mall and the giant casinos), the clean and adequately spaced but dated rooms and the in-house casino, I think we got a bargain for MOP 600 per night.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
If you want to travel on a tight budget, Macau should be in consideration.
It is possible, to explore every place in Macau by bus for free with a
little research on which hotels are near the sites. The hotels are
cheaper than in HK, transportation is easy with the free casino
buses, bottled water and other drinks are free in casinos, there is free
tasting of tapas and crackers in pastry shops near the Ruins, most
shows are free, airfare is cheap and cost of food is the same
as in Hong Kong.<br />
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</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>Here are the hotels in Macau which I recommend:</b><br />
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
- Hotel Sintra (City Center)</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
- The Venetian Hotel (Rooms can fit lots of persons) (Cotai)</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
- Lisboa Hotel (City Center)</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
- Metropole Hotel (City Center)</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lHuFaDV9MAg/UBketwYB7QI/AAAAAAAABI4/gHSWKsoLPD4/s1600/IMG_20110801_135637.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lHuFaDV9MAg/UBketwYB7QI/AAAAAAAABI4/gHSWKsoLPD4/s640/IMG_20110801_135637.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Inside the Ferry</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fsCQHgvKQio/UBke7GWad_I/AAAAAAAABJA/AzJXowBAst8/s1600/2011-08-01+15.32.23.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fsCQHgvKQio/UBke7GWad_I/AAAAAAAABJA/AzJXowBAst8/s640/2011-08-01+15.32.23.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Macau Maritime Terminal</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5xIH530KUak/UBkfIx7PEnI/AAAAAAAABJI/KZ2ON0uPaKQ/s1600/2011-08-01+15.59.35.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5xIH530KUak/UBkfIx7PEnI/AAAAAAAABJI/KZ2ON0uPaKQ/s640/2011-08-01+15.59.35.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hotel Sintra</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZeC5ld3a2hw/UBkfQygkzEI/AAAAAAAABJU/ek_A0PJepQo/s1600/2011-08-02+18.49.16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZeC5ld3a2hw/UBkfQygkzEI/AAAAAAAABJU/ek_A0PJepQo/s640/2011-08-02+18.49.16.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-njNERMFrzw8/UBkfbvRdPMI/AAAAAAAABJc/gcvC5Fsyrek/s1600/2011-08-01+17.05.46.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-njNERMFrzw8/UBkfbvRdPMI/AAAAAAAABJc/gcvC5Fsyrek/s640/2011-08-01+17.05.46.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
After a little rest, we spent the rest of the day at the Cotai Strip starting with the <b>City of Dreams</b> casinos, and it's three neighboring hotels namely: Crown, Hyatt and Hard Rock. <u>In front of Hotel Sintra, there is a bus stop of a free shuttle bus going directly to the City of Dreams.</u> I was disappointed that the Bubble Show at COD was no longer free. They now charge you MOP 30, good thing juice, coffee and tea are still served free. COD has a luxurious feel about it and is mainly catered to foreigners as opposed to Chinese locals who are mostly at Lisboa. We had dinner at the 2nd floor food court, where the food is plain ordinary at best.</div>
<span style="text-align: justify;"><br /></span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QcaEqN_vRgs/UBkjdk0oWXI/AAAAAAAABKg/BIFT3PvShoo/s1600/2011-08-01+20.25.20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QcaEqN_vRgs/UBkjdk0oWXI/AAAAAAAABKg/BIFT3PvShoo/s640/2011-08-01+20.25.20.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">City of Dreams</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KbhbMIt3u24/UBkhijWJDPI/AAAAAAAABJ0/ZFXYi9t0g-g/s1600/2011-08-01+18.00.44.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KbhbMIt3u24/UBkhijWJDPI/AAAAAAAABJ0/ZFXYi9t0g-g/s640/2011-08-01+18.00.44.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bawal daw picture :D</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DpCONWsZuCU/UBkhlfm4uqI/AAAAAAAABJ8/vyBqUSIcFqs/s1600/Pikachu285.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DpCONWsZuCU/UBkhlfm4uqI/AAAAAAAABJ8/vyBqUSIcFqs/s640/Pikachu285.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-d_ygWx-p40s/UBkhuOA5luI/AAAAAAAABKI/BadPbCBHz34/s1600/2011-08-01+19.11.08.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-d_ygWx-p40s/UBkhuOA5luI/AAAAAAAABKI/BadPbCBHz34/s640/2011-08-01+19.11.08.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bubble Show</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mNWhoAPCaM0/UBkh8HPR8-I/AAAAAAAABKQ/hgBnq9Wclqw/s1600/2011-08-01+19.41.04.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mNWhoAPCaM0/UBkh8HPR8-I/AAAAAAAABKQ/hgBnq9Wclqw/s640/2011-08-01+19.41.04.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">2nd Floor Food Court COD</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5JTkYhqfaqE/UBkiJvla23I/AAAAAAAABKY/xI1dS1nY6Y4/s1600/2011-08-01+19.45.12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5JTkYhqfaqE/UBkiJvla23I/AAAAAAAABKY/xI1dS1nY6Y4/s640/2011-08-01+19.45.12.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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After dinner, we crossed the street to the <b>Venetian Macau</b>, the largest
casino in the world. It boasts of fine European decorations, a 2nd floor shopping area, Italian styled squares, a concert hall, thousands of hotel suites and an artistic but way overpriced food court. We capped off the evening trying our
lucks at the casino, where predictably, I lost money (slot machines only
:D), although my gambling expert grandparents won and so did little bro
(beginner's luck).<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QVjLEls4Keg/UBklWmSP7EI/AAAAAAAABKs/XYITDRaQm5I/s1600/2011-08-01+20.20.40.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QVjLEls4Keg/UBklWmSP7EI/AAAAAAAABKs/XYITDRaQm5I/s640/2011-08-01+20.20.40.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Venetian</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NkTp-GnwC28/UBklkvkVGcI/AAAAAAAABK0/Bo-lvxJTSZQ/s1600/2011-08-01+20.46.51.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NkTp-GnwC28/UBklkvkVGcI/AAAAAAAABK0/Bo-lvxJTSZQ/s640/2011-08-01+20.46.51.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0QLwfi2A284/UBklx07NfNI/AAAAAAAABK8/XVPPC_hwHiw/s1600/2011-08-01+22.54.43.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0QLwfi2A284/UBklx07NfNI/AAAAAAAABK8/XVPPC_hwHiw/s640/2011-08-01+22.54.43.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IkZup7KYtho/UBkmB3OyPCI/AAAAAAAABLE/HcVK5NPHP7s/s1600/2011-08-01+21.22.21.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IkZup7KYtho/UBkmB3OyPCI/AAAAAAAABLE/HcVK5NPHP7s/s640/2011-08-01+21.22.21.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wala bang LA Lakers Experience?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yLr-BBHgznY/UBkmOR0SUvI/AAAAAAAABLQ/DDTCr89V3_o/s1600/2011-08-01+21.18.17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yLr-BBHgznY/UBkmOR0SUvI/AAAAAAAABLQ/DDTCr89V3_o/s640/2011-08-01+21.18.17.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The gondoliers serenading tourists</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GyCYHzUFJA4/UBkmS6cvdvI/AAAAAAAABLY/Xa_gUC773_U/s1600/IMG_20110801_204640.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GyCYHzUFJA4/UBkmS6cvdvI/AAAAAAAABLY/Xa_gUC773_U/s640/IMG_20110801_204640.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The artistic food court</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Map of the Cotai Strip</td></tr>
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<br />Arman Gohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13841824518243724166noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6036390446560410222.post-81969254952216950982012-07-16T15:19:00.000+08:002012-12-11T15:24:59.577+08:00Hong Kong... for the 5th Time, A Symphony of Lights & Tsim Sha Tsui (Day 1)<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Hong Kong by heart...</b><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I have been here before, it's all too familiar to me. The lights, the
sounds, the smell, the pace and the attitude all conjure an unmistakable
identity. I know this place more than I know most of the cities back
home. This is the first country I ever visited, the most I have visited
and yet somehow the feeling of excitement over doing the same things
and going to the same places remain. Maybe it's because we were
celebrating our parent's wedding anniversary or that this was my first
time traveling with my grandparents or just the fact that it's Hong
Kong.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-k3T3D9tCCkw/UBkY0kIaifI/AAAAAAAABHE/hcrntqFhbAQ/s1600/IMG_1537.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-k3T3D9tCCkw/UBkY0kIaifI/AAAAAAAABHE/hcrntqFhbAQ/s640/IMG_1537.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hong Kong Island seen from Kowloon</td></tr>
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<a name='more'></a><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 20px;">It was the last week of July 2011, the temperature was really hot to coincide with HK's major SALE season and we had 3 days (plus 2 in Macau) to experience the hustle & bustle of of it all. We arrived in the afternoon via Philippine Airlines to <b>Chek Lap Kok Airport</b>. Massive, idiot proofed, and a worthwhile time killer for long stopovers. There are plenty dinning & shopping options, a gaming center, numerous exhibits, and everything a tourist needs. Visa is not required for Philippine passport holders staying 14 days or less. <u>Transportation to the city is easy either via Airport Express Train (HK$ 140, fastest), Cityflyer bus (HK$ 40, cheapest) <a href="http://www.nwstbus.com.hk/routes/airport-bus/hotel/index.aspx?intLangID=1" target="_blank"><Cityflyer Hotel Stops></a> or taxi (HK$ 500, convenient).</u> Taxis in Hong Kong are metered, economical (for 3 or more persons) and comfortable. Drivers are honest and speak very little English.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The improved meal from PAL</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Always a nice, strange feeling</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Lantau Link from the taxi</td></tr>
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We took a taxi to the <a href="http://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g294217-d305913-Reviews-The_Salisbury_YMCA_of_Hong_Kong-Hong_Kong.html" target="_blank">YMCA Salisbury Hotel</a> which is located very close to all the shopping at Nathan Road and rests on the foot of an MTR exit. We were able to avail a promo offered three months in advance in the hotel's official website and paid HK$ 935 per room per night. The rooms were big compared to Hong Kong standards and we also got upgraded during our first night. </div>
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<span style="text-align: justify;">I don't like searching for hotels in Hong Kong. Most are expensive, offer small rooms, give bad service, and offer no perks (like free breakfast, or airport pick-up). The airfare may be cheap, but the cost of living is high. </span></div>
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<span style="text-align: justify;"><b>Here is a list of hotels that I recommend in Hong Kong (and I've wasted a lot of hours):</b></span></div>
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<span style="text-align: justify;">- YMCA Salisbury (Tsim Sha Tsui)</span></div>
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<span style="text-align: justify;">- Marco Polo / Gateway / Prince (Tsim Sha Tsui)</span></div>
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<span style="text-align: justify;">- Hotel Panorama by Rhombus (Tsim Sha Tsui)</span></div>
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<span style="text-align: justify;">- Citadines Ashley (Tsim Sha Tsui)</span></div>
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<span style="text-align: justify;">- Butterfly on Prat (Tsim Sha Tsui)</span></div>
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<span style="text-align: justify;">- Holiday Inn Golden Mile (Tsim Sha Tsui)</span></div>
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<span style="text-align: justify;">- Metropark (Causeway Bay)</span></div>
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<span style="text-align: justify;">- Park Lane (Causeway Bay)</span></div>
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<span style="text-align: justify;">- Holiday Inn Express (Causeway Bay)</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--f_JeZd7LYA/UBkQe2bksWI/AAAAAAAABFA/N_8vIcOHsV8/s1600/2011-08-01+12.41.42.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--f_JeZd7LYA/UBkQe2bksWI/AAAAAAAABFA/N_8vIcOHsV8/s640/2011-08-01+12.41.42.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">YMCA Hotel</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xJ-h3l8mmos/UBkQoIENvfI/AAAAAAAABFI/P971xQ0Neds/s1600/2011-08-01+07.25.56.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xJ-h3l8mmos/UBkQoIENvfI/AAAAAAAABFI/P971xQ0Neds/s640/2011-08-01+07.25.56.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Buti siya sa sofa, ako sa sahig!</td></tr>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-l7kWSte5XeU/UBkQyShMoOI/AAAAAAAABFQ/4BxWq8A8yDc/s1600/2011-08-01+07.25.43.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-l7kWSte5XeU/UBkQyShMoOI/AAAAAAAABFQ/4BxWq8A8yDc/s640/2011-08-01+07.25.43.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Separate Office Area, upgrade's perks</td></tr>
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After check-in, we decided to watch the <b>Symphony of Lights</b> at the Avenue of Stars which is just across our hotel. It's a 15-minute lights show emanating from the tall skyscrapers of Hong Kong Island every 8 pm. The buildings are fascinating to look at, with the standouts being the IFC Building, the Bank of China Tower and the HSBC Building. The show itself felt dull and unimpressive and I got bored halfway through the spectacle. The real experience here is admiring the beautiful architecture of Central's buildings and watching as old ferry boats cross the harbor.</div>
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dy7_4xs5aj7xPjLp8xxFBkik5hn5OeVZKWIzix-p_qyKkBEdASkzOkhvwf4iWXvxpK1gEJZbrh1TTfT27SbbQ' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View of the Central Skyline</td></tr>
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After the show, we had dinner at <b>Food Republic</b> inside the <b>Silvercord Mall</b> across the street from Harbour City. Every time we are in Hong Kong we always end up eating here. Food Republic is a food court offering mostly Chinese food, with a mix of Japanese, Thai, Singaporean and Indian stalls. The food is simple, affordable, clean and taste alright.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Entrance to Harbour City</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FpFonCJhPTw/UBkSkk_21lI/AAAAAAAABF8/FSQHz-miAQY/s1600/2011-07-31+21.28.55.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FpFonCJhPTw/UBkSkk_21lI/AAAAAAAABF8/FSQHz-miAQY/s640/2011-07-31+21.28.55.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Our" Food Court</td></tr>
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After dinner, my dad and grandparents decided to return to the hotel. Me, my brother and mom went for a late night stroll around <b>Nathan Road</b>, plus the side streets of Haiphong, Ashley, Hankow, Lock, Peking, Cameron and Granville road. This is the main tourist area in Hong Kong where first timers are recommended to stay because of it's numerous shopping, dining, sightseeing and transportation options. Almost everyone who goes to Hong Kong has been here, especially for the late night sale shopping. <u>To get here, take the MTR to Tsim Sha Tsui Station.</u> As my companions spent hours searching for hidden treasures at the Bossinis, Giordanos, and G2000 stores, I tried out the street food. I had some dumplings, sausage, mango juice, and milk tea. Buying food is difficult with the language barrier and the rudeness of some locals but the ability to speak a little Mandarin helped me a lot.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">MTR Exit A to Nathan Road</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My favorite place for snacks</td></tr>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AlCPAgTNTxw/UBkTwFe_faI/AAAAAAAABGY/u9ETFlXgHpQ/s1600/2011-07-31+21.43.16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AlCPAgTNTxw/UBkTwFe_faI/AAAAAAAABGY/u9ETFlXgHpQ/s640/2011-07-31+21.43.16.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of the interesting sidestreets of TST</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qR4jyoqhY2Q/UBkVh3c8l3I/AAAAAAAABGo/eQdBkJh9ZJ4/s1600/Kowloon-Map.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="404" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qR4jyoqhY2Q/UBkVh3c8l3I/AAAAAAAABGo/eQdBkJh9ZJ4/s640/Kowloon-Map.gif" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Map of Kowloon</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BElhrzs0vk4/UBkVkka8naI/AAAAAAAABGw/LrooZqAWULA/s1600/mtr-map.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="454" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BElhrzs0vk4/UBkVkka8naI/AAAAAAAABGw/LrooZqAWULA/s640/mtr-map.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hong Kong MTR Map</td></tr>
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<br />Arman Gohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13841824518243724166noreply@blogger.com0Hong Kong22.396428 114.10949722.161534500000002 113.79364000000001 22.6313215 114.425354