Travel – Through My Eyes

Camp Avenue: Your Guide to an Affordable Trip

A camping trip is the perfect way to enjoy nature this season. Keep reading to find out the camping guide for your next getaway!

It’s no wonder that Camp Avenue has become a favorite destination among travelers. Besides its Instagram-worthy attributes, there’s another reason why millennial travelers can’t seem to get enough of this Camping site: its affordability and the theme of Bohemian Dreams!

How to Get There

Camp Avenue is located in Taboc, San Juan, La Union, about a 5 to 6 hour trip by land from Manila. You have two options on how to get there: by car or bus.

By Car:

Getting there is pretty easy with the help of waze. Take the North Luzon Expressway (NLEx) and the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEx) and then the Tarlac-Pangasinan-La Union Expressway (TPLEx). From there, take the Pozorrubio Exit to the McArthur Highway. Continue to the bypass road of San Fernando, La Union until you reach San Juan.

By Bus:

If driving isn’t an option for you, there are bus companies that would take you from Manila to La Union in just 5 hours like Dominion, Partas. Viron, Bataan Transit, and there are also buses going to Ilocos that may drop you off at San Juan, La Union. From there, you can take a jeepney or a tricycle to Camp Avenue.

Camp Avenue offers two kinds of accommodations: tents and Indo-Bali huts.

Tent Accommodation: 750 pesos per person per night (Inclusive of Insulation Foam, 2 pillows, entrance fee and breakfast)

Tent pitching: 500 pesos per person per night (You bring your own tent. This is inclusive of Entrance Fee, Space Rental, and Breakfast.)

Indo Bali Hut: 1,200 pesos per person per night (Inclusive of bedding, towels, entrance fee and breakfast)

Since the Indo Huts were limited, it is advisable to have a reservation before going to Camp Avenue.

Camping Tips:

Before going to Camp Avenue, make sure that you’ve packed light for your trip.

If you’re bringing in your gadgets, charge them first. Bringing a power bank is also highly recommended.

Remember to properly dispose of all your trash before leaving.

Bring enough cash

Bring insect repellant

Sunsets in Elyu:

Total expenses (Overnight):

Here’s a rundown of the expenses on my trip to Camp Avenue:

Bus fare (Back and Forth:) PHP 800
Tricycle to Camp Avenue: PHP 50
Tent Rental: PHP750
Extra expenses, E.G: drinks and Lunch, Dinner: PHP 1000

Total: PHP2600

Special Mention:

Met these guys in Camp Avenue; Tine, Ruth, Jerwin, Marvs and Jonas — we were so lucky to find a soul that grooves with yours! See you guys soon!?

We know that this was a spontaneous unplanned getaway, but it was so fun and unforgettable! Love you cousins; Gia and Rizah!

June 5, 2018June 5, 2018 by YOO KII Categories: TravelTags: beach, Beach party, Camp Avenue, Camping, Glamping, La Union, San Juan, Surfing, Travel Leave a comment

TRAVEL GUIDE 2018: Spending a Weekend in Baler, Aurora

It’s more than just sand and surf!

I had a great weekend escape in Baler, and I wanted to share some tips and things to do. The city makes it all the more appealing for a quick weekend trip. It provides a quiet escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, one that will truly help you relax and unwind.

Costa Pacifica, Baler

HOW TO GET THERE:

From Tarlac, Baler is a 3-4 hour drive, but if you want to commute, which I did, you can ride a bus. From Tarlac Baliwag terminal to Cabanatuan. From there, you’ll have to transfer to a van or another bus to bring you to Baler.

Expenses: Baliwag Bus PHP70, Van 220 (Back and Forth fare is PHP520)

WHERE TO GO:

If Baler, Aurora is on your bucket list, here are some attractions you should visit while in town!

Surf’s up! You didn’t visit Baler for just swimming, so go surf in Sabang Beach. It’s PHP300 for an hour surfing lesson. It was a great experience, and I’m sure you’ll love the surfer feel when you get the vibe!

Ditumabo Mother Fall. If you get tired of the sand and sea, go for the cool mountain-fed waters of Ditumabo Waterfalls. An hour and a half trike ride from Sabang Beach and another 45 minutes of trekking and river crossing, and you’ll sure love the tropical vibe!

Expenses: PHP200 tour Guide (Required), PHP30 for the Environmental Fee

The Hanging bridge is nice for picture-taking. It crosses a wide river with a mountain in the background. Crossing the bridge is also a nice experience. You can feel its purpose for the locals to cross the other side. On the other side are souvenir shops and pasalubong stores.

Expenses: Free

Enchanting Aniao Islets! This spot is one of my favorites in Baler. A good stop for Instagram posts!

Expenses: PHP10 Entrance Fee

If you have more time and days, here are some additional places not to miss:

Balete Tree,
Dicasalarin Cove,
Rock Formations
Dimadimaalangat Islets
and more.

May 29, 2018 by YOO KII Categories: TravelTags: Baler, fun, Lifestyle, Photography, Travel, weekend Leave a comment

Quick Travel Guide 2018: Talicud Island in the Island Garden City of Samal, Davao del Norte

Need a dose of “vitamin sea”? Check out the Island Garden City of Samal.

The Island Garden City of Samal also known as Samal island, is a city in the province of Davao del Norte, Davao Region, Philippines. This Island is made up of Samal Island and the smaller Talicud Island and it is just two kilometers away, which is just around 15 to 20 minutes sea ride from Davao City.

Samal and Talicud Islands are the most tourist destination in the country with many beach resorts ready to serve any willing tourist. These two Islands have also plenty marine reefs, tempting waters and tourist attractions that would be of interest to any tourists.

HOW TO GET THERE:

From Davao City take a taxi or Jeep to Sta. Ana Wharf near Magsaysay Park, If you’re not spending the night on the island make sure to check the schedule of returning boats (usually between 6AM-3PM) and luckily, we booked a day tour (Samal Island Hopping, for cheap cost of Php650) for a less hassle on finding and waiting for a boat ride to the island back and forth.

TRAVEL TIPS:

If you are visiting just for a day trip, make sure to pack light and bring only the essentials.
So if you are on a tour, they offer food and drinks, no need to bring too much food.
Plus, don’t forget to bring enough sunscreen.
Samal has beautiful beaches, so don’t forget to bring your ‘palabang’ swimwear or OOTDs.
Bring a camera or a good camera phone, these will be your best gadget while exploring this beautiful Island.
No worries, the signal is too strong! You can easily update your Facebook status or Instagram on your current happenings.
Don’t forget also to bring power bank.
No need to bring a snorkeling gear, they also offer for a low cost of Php150 whole day.

This island greets its visitors with clear, sparkling blue waters and pristine white shores, perfect for anyone looking for a relaxing and calm beach. But if that isn’t enough, the island is also famous among adventurous beach goers for its very rich and diverse marine world with protected coral and fish sanctuaries.

Here are some highlights in our Island Hopping day tour:

Recognized as one of the tropical havens in Samal Island are Babu Santa and Dayang Beach in Talicud Island. The resorts are exceedingly ideal for people who would simply want to experience nature’s beauty at its finest plus the locals were so friendly, we did not feel unsafe.

Boats docked along the shore of Babu Santa Beach Resort.

Dive/Snorkel stops: Coral Gardens and Angel’s Cove.

Ruins of a pier marks a border between two beach resorts.

Clear sky, crystal blue water and white sand. Need I say more?

The island’s white sand is littered with broken corals.

Taken in Babu Santa Beach Resort, Me and my sister decided to go for a walk and explore the resort, and here we found the ‘coconut paradise’.

Tour Destinations:

From Sta. Ana Wharf
Angels Cove
Coral Garden
Babu Santa Beach Resort
Sabang Cliff
Giant Clam Sanctuary (Entrance fee not included)
Diaz Island

Sightseeing at;

Pearl Farm Beach Resort
Hof Gorei
Wishing Island
Malipano Island

Goodbye Paradise, Goodbye Samal Island! Till we meet again.

May 3, 2018May 3, 2018 by YOO KII Categories: Travel Leave a comment

A #SEOULgood experience: The top tourist spots in Korea that you can visit in 5 days!

It’s no secret that Filipinos are obsessed with Korean culture. Everyone’s been going crazy after the best of Korean pop culture, food, fashion, and more – and we just can’t get enough.

So, friends and all my avid readers, let me share with you our 5-day autumn-winter wonderland with complete itinerary, tips and cost breakdown to help you plan your own trip to Korea soon.

Tip: DIY your own application so you don’t need to pay for any agency fee and plan your itinerary.

(BTW, Thank you so much, Erika Shallaine Yu for making our itinerary. You the best!)

We flew via Cebu Pacific Air and arrived at Incheon Internation Airport at 10:45pm (Philippines is 1 hour behind). Traveled via train going to our Hotel guesthouse in Yeonnam-dong, Seoul, South Korea.

Space Torra, Yeonnam-dong, Seoul, South Korea

Rooms are equipped with air conditioning, heating and free WiFi. A daily breakfast is provided. Room rate for 5 days: 260,600 won

Tip: Buy a T-Money card. If you plan to be in South Korea for couple of days or more and need to take the subway or bus often, a T-money card would be advantageous in terms of savings. If you are flying into Incheon airport, you can grab a card at a convenience store just after arrivals.

Price: 8000 won , T-Money Load 50000 won

What can you do in Korea when you only have 5 days? Here you go!

DAY 1: Nami Island, Petite France

Travel to Nami:

Admission fee: 8000 won

Walk: Space Torra to Hongik University (8 mins)
Train:[Gyeongui Jungang Line] Hongik Univ. Station to Mangu Station (15 stops)
Train: [Gyoengchun Line] Mangu Station to Gapyeong Station (12 stops)
Bus: Gapyeong City Tour Bus (Course A) to Nami Island Station (6000 won)
Walk: Nami Island Station to Gapyeong Wharf (2 mins)
Ferry: Gapyeong Wharf to Nami Island
Travel to Petite Fance:

Admission Fee: 8000 won

Right after exploring the picturesque Nami Island. We ride a taxi going to Petite France. (Forgot the cost of this cab ride. sorry.)

DAY 2: Everland, Gangnam District

Travel to Everland:

Admission Fee: 54,000 WON

Walk: Space Torra to Hongik University
Train: [Line 2] Hongik Univ. Station to Wangsimni Station (11 stops)
Train: [Bundang Line] Wangsimni Station to Giheung Station (25 stops)
Train: [EverLine] Giheung Station to Everland Station (Exit 3) (13 stops)
Shuttle Bus: Everland Station to Everland

Travel to Gangnam District:

Shuttle Bus: Everland to Everland Station
Train: [EverLine] Everland Station to Giheung Station (13 stops)
Train: [Bundang Line] Giheung Station to Jeongja Station (7 stops)
Train: [Shinbundang Line] Jeongja Station to Gangnam Station (6 stops)

DAY 3: Bukchon Hanok Village, Gyeongbokgung Palace, Secret Garden, Deoksugung Palace, N Seoul Tower, Myeondong District

Travel to Hanok Village

Walk: Space Torra to Hongik University
Train: Hongik Univ. Station to Euljiro 3-ga Station (6 stops)
Train: [Line 2] Euljiro 3-ga Station to Anguk Station (Exit 1 or 2) (1 stop)
Walk: Anguk Station to Bukchon Hanok Village (10 mins)

Travel to Gyeongbokgung Palace

Integrated Palace Ticket: 10,000 won (This ticket is all in one package)

Walk: Bukchon Hanok Village to Gyeongbokgung Station (10 mins)

Travel Deoksugung Palace

Walk: City Hall Station to Deoksugung Palace (10 mins)

Travel to Secret Garden

Travel to N Seoul Tower

Observatory tower Fee: 10000 won

Observatory: N Seoul Tower by night

Gyeongbokgung Palace to N Seoul Tower
Walk: Gyeongbokgung Palace to Gyeongbokgung Station (11 mins)
Train: [Line 3] Gyeongbokgung Station to Chungmuro Station (Exit 2) (4 stops)
Bus: Namsan Circular Shuttle Bus No. 02
Daehan Cinema – N Seoul Tower (6 stops)

We ride a Cable Car going down from N Seoul Tower.
Adult Ticket One-Way: 6,000 won

Travel to Myeondong:

Bus: Namsan Circular Shuttle Bus No. 05
Namsan – Myeong-dong (6 stops)

Shopping! and Food Trip time!

DAY 4: Haneul Park, Ewha Womans University

Travel to Haneul Park

ENTRANCE IS FREE!

So if are around the the Seoul World Cup Stadium. Follow the big road and turn left to cross the street at the 4-way intersection. You’ll see the Haneul Park signage at the parking lot.

There is a shuttle bus station that you can use to the top. We buy a ticket from the ticket counter which costs KRW 3,000 for round trip. Alternatively, you can take the zig-zag stairway, which precisely 291 stairs to finally arrive at Haneul Park.

Travel to Ewha Womans University

Train: [Line 6] World Cup Stadium Station to Hapjeong Station (3 stops)
Train: [Line 2] Hapjeong Station to Ewha Womans University (3 stops)

DAY 5: Flying back to PH

Travel to Airport

Shout out to these gorge girls who are with me on this trip! Thank you Mother Krishka Lorenz Ramos & ‘Pachuchay’ Erika Shallaine Yu for making our adventure really special!

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Not yet done… Will be adding photos soon.

December 3, 2017December 3, 2017 by YOO KII Categories: TravelTags: autumn, everland, gangnam, haneul park, hanok, hongdae, kdrama, korea, myeondong, OOTD, Photography, seoul, Travel, winter 2 Comments

#WhenInAntipolo: Pinto Art Museum

I always wanted to see this place as I’ve heard that this is a must visit place… So I did. I invited my two friends to go with me on a weekend, to at least roam the most talked about museum in Antipolo, Rizal.

The white-washed walls are complimented by brown staircase and other minimalist details.

The most used area of the Pinto Art Museum is the picturesque roof deck.

This museum becomes a favorite hang out place of millennials because of its picturesque place and it has a different kinds of art from photography, paintings, to contemporary arts, sculptures and art installations by various local artists.

HOW TO GET THERE?

Pinto Art Museum is located at 1 Sierra Madre St., Grand Heights, Antipolo, Rizal. Our option is to ride an FX bound for Antipolo then ask the driver to drop you off at Ynares Sports Arena. From there, you can hire a tricycle to get you to museum. BTW, It is open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM from Tuesday to Sunday.

Once you’ve arrive at the museum, you first have to register, log your name and pay Php 200.00 as entrance fee. Students and senior citizens have discounts provided that they have their ID’s with them. Upon entering the museum, you have to leave your backpacks at the package counter near the entrance, then after that, you can now enjoy roaming around the museum. Take note, no food and pets are allowed inside the Art sanctuary.

For those who seek a day out of the bustling noise in the city, there’s place in Rizal, specifically in Antipolo, where you can appreciate both nature and art.

Here’s a glimpse of Pinto Art Museum:

Sculptures everywhere!

Pinto Art Gallery

Pinto Museum Art Collection

Indigenous Arts

There are different collections of Bulul comes from different sizes.

Cafe Rizal

After feeding our eyes with all the artsy stuff, it’s time to satisfy our hungry stomach at the Pinto Art Museum’s Cafe Rizal.

The ambiance of the restaurant is superb.

And lastly thank you to my friends for joining me in this day tour! Love you guys big time!

September 11, 2017September 12, 2017 by YOO KII Categories: Travel 8 Comments

Trip Diary: A SUMMER DESTINATION WITH MY EXPAT FAMILY

I would like to take this moment to write this blog and share the memories that happened during the vacation of my family here in the Philippines.

It has been 5 years since the last time I saw them, they all migrated in different countries; Australia, UAE and Italy. The last time they were here is when I was in my sophomore year. So, yeah. I won’t go in details and be emotional in this blog. Continue browsing this post and look what we made during our short stay in Boracay–only four days – but we loved the Island

There’s no need to describe the place (Boracay Island), because the whole world knows that it’s a beautiful haven of fun here in the Philippines.

Here’s what we had August 8-12.

WELCOME to Alta Vista De Boracay…

20708149_10211623696082235_1321846535443020314_n — Photo courtesy to Tito Arjay Alcos for this awesome panorama shot.

Well, my wish came true and we finally went! We were so happy to stay in Alta Vista de Boracay —– it was such a memorable, fun trip. I seriously didn’t want it to end. We were pampered and relaxed, and yes, we slept and ate so well, we all had the best time together, which made us doubly happy. Bora is such a magical place for us, we’ve created more happy memories that will last a lifetime.

The arrival…

First day in the morning… Some were still napping and others were prepping up for the day’s adventure.

The Majestic infinity pool!

21269764_10210444772261020_20421388_n — Photo courtesy to Tito Arjay Alcos

It is pretty hard to top a beach like Boracay, but I have to say, this infinity pool at the Alta Vista De Boracay may prove to be competition. The pool is just gorgeous, and with a view like that you really can’t go wrong. This is a great alternative if you get tired of swimming in the ocean.

The awe-mazing sunset!

This has to be my favorite reason as Boracay has the most beautiful sunset ever! I can never get enough of it, and I really made time to watch it every single day.

#PinkSkies

Purple skies sunset on Boracay

A warm and golden sunset.

Here are some of the best things to do in Boracay Island with family that we experienced on our short visit.

BORACAY ISLAND HOPPING TOUR:

Crocodile Island, Crystal Cove Island, Puka Beach, Ilig Iligan Beach, Punta Bunga Beach

Here’s the video before we started the island tour: CLICK ME!!!

Enjoying the calm-crystal water at Puka Beach.

Paraw sailing…

Take a rest for a moment and enjoy the sounds of the wave of the ocean.

Seas the day by looking up the beautiful island.

Take a walk at the island’s powdery white sand and clear blue waters.

SNORKELING

It was a fantastic way to spend the day. We loved visiting some of the other beaches and enjoying pretty decent snorkeling spot.

Fresh buko in the middle of the sea.

PARASAILING..

Photos courtesy to Tita Anna Marie Tamayo-Transfiguracion

BANANA BOAT…

Adrian, Yoo Kii, Eros, Ashley

SAMSUNG CAMERA PICTURES

You may also watch the Banana Boat Nae Nae dance edition HERE: CLICK ME!!!

FLYING FISH (Unfortunately, I haven’t got a photo of this activity. )

Boracay’s Grotto…

A visit to the beach is not complete if you miss seeing the Blessed Virgin Mary’s grotto and take a picture of the beautiful image on top of the Boracay Rock in Station 1.

GETTING AROUND BORACAY…

HPTM9178 — STOLEN: It seems like we have a new rising loveteam in the making. Meet #AceNie! Would they be the next #KathNiel?

You may watch the video HERE: CLICK HERE!!!

Halowich: The best soft-served mango ice cream in Boracay…

Since day 1, we’ve been seeing a lot of people with this yellow stuff in a plastic cup and immediately got curious. Just pass through D’Mall, look for a line and surely one of them lines will lead to Halowich. Such a tasty and creamy treat!

Try King Corn Boracay…

Also we snacked on corn on a cob while at the beach.

Boracay’s Nightlife…

The Island is well-known for its vibrant, seven days a week nightlife. There are many different nightlife venues to choose from – from wild parties, to bars, to lounges with live music…

HPTM9141 - Copy — The two were busy with their smartphones.

So, before heading to a nightlife in the Island, we had a quick photo shoot with my cousins and my kapatid.

HPTM9203 — Ashley – Adrian – Eros; my co-millennials.

Photo credits to Tita Anna Marie Tamayo-Transfiguracion

Short story of what happened that night. Me and my Tita Annie were drunk AF! So much memories and a moment that will last for a lifetime. Watch the video HERE: CLICK ME!!!

Play Beach Volleyball with Locals…

As you walk along Boracay Beach, especially in Station 2 you will see people playing volleyball, most are local Filipinos who live on the island, however don’t be surprise if you are walikng down the beach and someone playing the volleyball ask you to join the this fun activity.

: And this happened. Who do you think would win? The Expat or the Locals?

Jonah’s Fruit Shake & Snack Bar

HPTM8019 — A trip to Boracay would not be complete without ordering fruit shakes from Jonah’s, which has practically become an institution. There’s nothing like a tall order of refreshing fruit shake to quench your thirst from the extreme heat.

At the moment: Chillin’ while looking at the picturesque island.

DELIGHTFUL SEAFOOD AT D’ TALIPAPA

Special thanks to the vendor of this who pushes us to have a photos with their fresh sea creatures.

And while waiting for our mouthwatering food, It seems this lil’ one is hungry for our dinner.

Literally a wet market, D’ Talipapa is a place where you can buy fresh seafood or meat and have it cooked in one of the market’s restaurants that offer the service.

Meet a lovely creature…

And probably you’ll meet a new friend… A cutie dog who lived in the island.

Boracay Sand Sculpture

Anyone who has been to Boracay would definitely have at least one snapshot in the the beach with the sand sculpture in the background.

It was our last day in Boracay and we were decided to make the most out of it! We still had time to swim until we were negra and negro and buy pasalubongs. There were no more scheduled activities. If not swimming, we were just lounging by the beach, eating and drinking.