Showing posts with label Travel Tips. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Travel Tips. Show all posts

Travel | Cebu Pacific Resumes Davao-Clark Route with a Promo!

Going to Luzon isn't only via Manila as Clark frequently receives more and more flights that can decongest Metro Manila air traffic. The resumption of Davao-Clark through Cebu Pacific Air is a welcome news that travel is now possible from Mindanao to Luzon, though not yet really for much leisure but for more important travels. There's still much precaution to observe when traveling.

Here's a story of the resumption route promo of Cebu Pacific:

Cebu Pacific resumes Davao-Clark route with special PHP88 seat sale

Promo fares available until April 30, 2021

 

The Philippines’ leading carrier, Cebu Pacific (PSE: CEB), resumes its Davao-Clark route with a special PHP88 seat sale, in line with boosting connectivity across its wide domestic network. Beginning May 2, passengers will be able to fly direct between Clark and Davao once weekly, every Sunday.

 

On top of this, CEB also flies from Davao to Manila 12x weekly, and from Davao to Cebu 4x weekly every Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday. Flights for these routes are also up for grabs for only PHP 88 one-way base fare, with travel period from today until February 28, 2022.

 

"We are happy to continue reopening more domestic routes as we see more people wanting to travel. We ensure our passengers that our low fares are here to stay so everyJuan can book ahead and save on their trips," said Michelle Lim, Cebu Pacific spokesperson.

 

With this seat sale, Dabawenyos who are longing to visit the beach can also fly to Cebu and connect conveniently to Boracay, Puerto Princesa or Siargao. Guests who have existing travel funds are encouraged to make use of such to book new flights. Last month, CEB also permanently removed change fees for all its flights, so everyJuan can plan ahead with peace of mind.

 

Cebu Pacific continues to prioritize everyJuan’s safety as it strictly implements its multi-layered protocols on-ground and inflight, in accordance with global aviation standards. Contactless procedures, thorough cleaning and disinfection protocols, and mandatory wearing of face masks and face shields are observed for both guests and crew. CEB frontliners are also required to undergo antigen testing before duty while CEB aircraft are equipped with hospital-grade HEPA filters that are proven to eliminate virus with 99.9% efficacy.

 

Passengers are advised to update their contact details via https://bit.ly/CEBUpdateInfo to receive email notifications on flight reminders and updates. CEB reminds everyJuan to check and prepare all travel requirements prior their travel - visit https://bit.ly/CEBFlightReminders for more information.

 

CEB operates the widest domestic network in the Philippines and currently flies to 32 domestic destinations on top of its six international destinations.


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This is indeed a good news for travelers! I will also check on flights perhaps for next year with this resumption promo. It has always been a practice for me to book ahead, save up extra, and plan for the incoming travel. Hoping for a better traveling experience in the nearest future!


Thank you for visiting my avenue, www.ten7avenue.com.

Lifestyle | The Aromacology Skin Care Essentials

Aromacology Essential Products
Travel is life for an outgoing person like me. During the travel, it is essential to bring some items that will protect yourself from harmful sun exposure and insect bites. Good thing that Aromacology has some of its products good for such needs. Here are some of my experiences using their products.

The sports spray. Yes, during a travel, sun exposure is pretty normal especially that you want to feel like a tourist: you will walk a lot. Walking along the streets under a very sunny day or enjoying the beach under the scorching heat of the sun, you will really get tanned or worse have much sunburn. It can be prevented using some skin products like a sunblock or sun spray, for instance, Aromacology's offer is a sports spray. It may be compared to other skincare products but theirs is a competitive one. Why? Most that I have tried, sunblock and even sun sprays are greasy and sticky. However, with the sports spray, it may appear greasy but it isn't and the feel is just gliding but eventually be absorbed by your skin. I love it that way. You can easily apply it to your body with a spray bottle and spread on your body parts. It comes handy with the 100mL spray bottle preparation.

The hair treatment. Sun exposure will really make your hair brittle and scalp dry. The result of which will be dandruff. It isn't cool to have dandruff, right? Sometimes, it will also result to hairfall. So, a great hair treatment product will help much to prevent having dandruff and hairfall. With Aromacology's hair treatment, it feels cool on the scalp because of the menthol component and it is not greasy. The feel is just right and application does not take that long. At least 10 minutes, you can have a hair treatment at home, during your bath. You may have hair treatment at your favorite salon but you can have a practical hair treatment session at home with this hair treatment of Aromacology. I like this too, and definitely can recommend this to anybody.

The lip therapy. Your lips will sometimes crack or becomes chap whenever you are getting acidic, thirsty or dehydrated. A lip balm or lip therapy can help moisten your lips and it is not just for women. Aromacology's lip therapy is like the other lipbalm available in the market only that it is more natural. It has a grapeseed extract thus its fruity smell which I like, and it is not greasy; it is just enough to moisturize your lips.

The mosquito repellent cream. Traveling may need much time and most of the time, it is spent overnight. You may be a person who loves to go around at night wherever it is, it can be at the forest or any urban place but there is a risk for some mosquito bites. Aromacology has something for it. They offer a small bottle container that can be easily applied and be protected from insect bites. It is pretty handy and can be brought anywhere.

Aromacology products are good to be given for your friends at any given occasion. Visit any Aromacology branch and avail of these products that are good for your body skin care needs.

Maybe, Aromacology is not known to you. Aromacology champions products with natural ingredients! Thank you for these awesome products! :-)

Thank you for visiting my avenue, www.ten7avenue.com.

Travel Tip | Save Miles for Future Travels

Inspire to Fly - Travel
Hear ye, hear ye, behold, seat sale of airlines in the Philippines! Happy Valentine’s! :-)

There are frequent travelers who are very fond of saving up miles that can be used for future travels. Yes, that includes me! In my previous day job, there are domestic travels that helped me save up some points since my work necessitates it. More travel, meaning, more points saved! LOL

Maybe, you ignore some marketing people at the airport presenting cards of several airlines telling about this and that, you earn this and those and etc. But, take it from me, DON’T IGNORE THEM! They are giving you an opportunity to take advantage of perks that you can avail while you enjoy (even not) flying with them. I don’t know if these people are on for a quota but they are giving it for free. You might regret it if one day, having those perks will cost some amount. :-p

Today, Valentine’s Day, some airlines are offering seat sales. Yes, in any destination you want, either domestic or international; just be quick to decide on where to go because airfare discounts like these sell like pancakes. If luck is not with you, try again! But, but, but…always remember that traveling means spending. You have to check your capacity and please do not resort to credit, credit, credit.

Anyways, all I want to say is, I am thankful with some points or miles I have earned before and even now. There are birthday travels I had that I got airfares for free and paying only taxes. There are sudden travel (international), too, that I booked using those points and the taxes covered! Isn’t it amazing?!!

Then, here comes the valentine seat sale, my points wallet is still good and enough, I am able to book two  (2) round trip tickets! One domestic trip that costs 6,000 points (1600 points for the base fare and 4200 points for the taxes) is not bad at all. Then, one international trip that costs 10,000 points (1600 points for the base fare and 8400 points for the taxes) is also not bad at all. Technically, I can say those are free flights! Just be patient in waiting for such perks and you will be glad to use some points or miles to your dream destination.

Always remember, your work may need you to travel a lot, but earning points or miles will reward you someday to your dream destination. Travel to allow yourself explore other areas and learn from there - it will help you widen your horizon. Travel within your means, it will keep your sanity. :-)

Thank you for visiting my avenue, www.ten7avenue.com. If you like this post, share it to your friends. :-)

Event | New AirAsia Davao - Kuala Lumpur Route Officiated

Davao to Kuala Lumpur Route Officiated
Davao City, Mindanao, Philippines is one of the international gateways of the Philippines in the southern island. It is a welcome development when more investors are coming in and open more opportunities to explore the potential of the city. One of which is AirAsia’s new air route of Davao City to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. This is pretty exciting!

AirAsia currently officiated the recently launched route from Davao City to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia that operates four (4) times a week. A press conference was held wherein Hon. Sara Duterte-Carpio, Davao City Mayor; Eden Josephine L. David, Tourism Assistant Secretary; Aireen Omar, AirAsia Deputy Group CEO - Digital, Transformation, Corporate Services and Riad Asmat, AirAsia Berhad CEO attended.

Aireen Omar
According to Aireen Omar, “AirAsia is excited about our first international route to Davao. We do not only connect Davao to Malaysia, but we also bring Davao closer to our extensive network of destinations in ASEAN, Northeast Asia, South Asia, Australasia, the Middle East and the US.” I agree with her remarks as AirAsia Malaysia hub is sprawling with so much number of travelers all around the globe with its massive network. ASEAN Pass is one thing that I am very excited about - hopefully Davao route is included - very soon! Omar added, “We are committed to growing tourism beyond the most famous tourism hotspots. We look forward to work closely with the Davao City Mayor, airport authorities and government bodies to put Davao on the map of must-visit destinations in ASEAN.” 

Hon. Sara Duterte-Carpio
The City Government of Davao also responded that it is ready to welcome visitors from Malaysia. There are efforts of strengthening more Halal-compliant establishments, security, law and order, traffic, transportation and many other essential activities for sustainability. Really, there are high hopes for this!

AirAsia is the all-time World’s Best Low-cost Airline winner for 9 consecutive years already. Celebratory all-in-fares of one-way Davao to Kuala Lumpur route are seen at P1599 available online with flying period now until July 31, 2018.
Davao is Ready!
Flight Schedule fro Davao City, Philippines (DVO) to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia (KUL) are as follows:

- Flight No. AK591 DVO to KUL departs at 14:55H every Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday.
- Flight No. AK590 KUL to DVO departs at 10:25H every Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday.

Philippines AirAsia has also connected Davao to other major destinations in the country such as Cebu, Manila, Kalibo, Puerto Princesa in Palawan, and Clark. Hoping for more destinations and more promos!

Thank you for visiting my avenue, www.ten7avenue.com!

If you like this post, don’t hesitate to share it to your friends. :-)

Travel | Enjoy Batanes on a Shoestring Budget

It is in the bucketlist of many Filipinos to visit and spend a vacation in the northernmost part of the country, Batanes group of islands. It is because the place is very clean, green and arguably one of the best places to be in the Philippines! Indeed, as experienced, it is really what I expected!

Now, I will share to you how I manage to bring only two thousand pesos (P2000) pocket money for the trip. I will also share to you how I am able to afford cheaper airfare for this trip. I will also share how I survived the 4 days and 3 nights vacation in the island. :-)

First things first, find the cheapest fare and if not the cheapest, at least the cheaper rates. In the market, Skyjet Air and Philippine Airlines fly to this northernmost territory. As of my observation, one-way ticket on both airlines will not go much less five thousand pesos (P5000) on a regular fare with other fees and taxes. The best thing to do to get a chance of their promo fare is to take chances on travel exposition. I got my roundtrip ticket for six thousand one hundred ninety-one pesos (P6191) during a travel expo. It may not be the cheapest but at least cheaper with 2 months before departure date. It is not a peak season visit and it is a risk booking dates during wet season, however, just pray for the best! ;-)

Next, try to search for tours in Batanes. There are blogs which are readily available for your guide to Batanes. I tried to compare a tour package for 3 days and a contact in the island for a tour, a tour package will cost you less. I got mine for four thousand nine hundred ninety-nine pesos (P4999) under BISUMI Tours. It is a promo rate for 3 days that include North Batan, Sabtang Island and South Batan. Aside from that, there is a complimentary lunch (Ivatan food) during the tour, refreshments, van transit and boat fees, other tour fees, a tour guide who can also take beautiful photos, tour bag, airport transfers and souvenir items! Where can you find anything as such? Well, thanks to Sir Ryan of BISUMI Tours you can contact him at these numbers 09989885898 or find their page - BISUMI Tours. Good thing also that they have an attached contact for cheap, humble and decent fan accommodation that amounts to five hundred pesos (P500) each night and for 3 nights, I paid one thousand five hundred pesos (P1500). By the way, BISUMI stands for Basco, Itbayat, Sabtang, Uyugan, Mahatao and Ivana which represents the municipalities of Batanes.

Alright, what other fees that you need to prepare? Upon arrival at Basco Airport, each guest has to pay an environmental fee of three hundred fifty pesos (P350) which is intended for the island's preservation and building of restrooms similar to stone houses near to prime tourist destinations. Prepare a your budget of one thousand five hundred pesos (P1500) for food (breakfast, dinner and snacks) and for more souvenir. Then, prepare one hundred fifty pesos (P150) for bike and Ivatan weather protection attire (vakul for ladies and kaayo for the gents) rental.

Total costs:
P6191 - roundtrip airfare (via SkyJet)
P6499 - 3 days tour c/o BISUMI Tours and 3 nights accommodation
P450 - 3 days breakfast
P965 - 3 nights dinner
P20 - Kanayi rental
P40 - Bike rental (P20/hr)
P350 - Environmental fee
P500 - Souvenir and food items
Total of P14665, not bad for a 4 days 3 nights Batanes Tour!

Next posts about Batanes will be the Tours and Food!

Thank you for visiting my avenue, www.ten7avenue.com, if you like this post, like and share it to your friends! ;-)

Travel | Japan Visa Requirements for Filipino Passport Holders

Travel has been a "dose for sanity" to me. An acute change of environment is a brain stimulant for me - just like coffee! Also, just like some lyrics from a song, "all my senses come to life"! Though my travel adventure isn't about a love story but it is a chance to indulge another culture, experience a way of living and taste sumptuous food. Also, traveling makes me fulfill my dreams of visiting a place, especially, Japan! Yes, for an ASEAN like me, going to this country is one in the bucket list. There are four (4) seasons in this country and surely, different colors and hues will be experienced each season. Yet and yet, before coming to this country, do not forget to accomplish your visa (oh yeah, third world country problem...lol). However, it is not that difficult to get one visa, for now; just be sure to have the complete requirements processed through an accredited agency. So, Filipinos wanting to visit Japan, as tourist, should prepare the following:
1) Completely filled out Visa Application Form in A4 paper.
2) One (1) Japan Visa passport photo, WHITE background, glued at the application form.
3) Valid passport at least six (6) months before the travel.
4) Detailed daily itinerary in Japan from ARRIVAL to DEPARTURE date.
5) Original Bank Certificate
6) Original and photocopy of your latest BIR Form 2316 or the Income Tax Return (ITR), original copy will be returned

First time travelers to Japan will have additional requirements to comply, to wit:
1) Original Birth Certificate issued by the Philippine Statistics Authority (formerly known as National Statistics Office) within one year
2) Original Marriage Certificate issued by the Philippine Statistics Authority within a year (if applicable)

For students/minors traveling to Japan, additional requirement will have to be submitted, to wit:
1) Photocopy of School ID.

Tip: Retired or senior citizen will not need to comply the ITR. If one lacks a requirement, a letter addressed to the embassy should be attached and submitted for the visa processing.

Usually, you will be advised that your visa will be available within 7 working days. Good thing that I got mine within two (2) days after submission of requirements. I have paid also nine hundred pesos (P900.00) for the visa with its processing. It should be noted that the visa processing payment by agencies may differ in cost.

After getting your visa, get ready for a luxurious visit to Japan!

My stories from Japan will be posted here in my avenue, www.ten7avenue.com. I hope you will share your stories, too!


Travel | Soul Searching in Seoul, South Korea

Get rid with my title...too fancy! LOL

The Philippines is a tropical country in the Southeast Asia Region. With this geographic location, the country experiences two seasons: dry (summer) and wet (rainy) seasons. A tropical person would want to experience something different such as experiencing winter, spring and fall. It has been a very familiar music in my ears that has the lyrics about these seasons 'winter, spring, summer or fall...you've got a friend'. Aside from that song, a lot of Korean television series has been an avenue to show the beauty of South Korea - a very good way to promote their place and it has been an influence for me to aspire coming to the country! However, my main drivers to go to  South Korea are some of my friends. Also, their history and culture are very interesting. Actually, it is among the places I really want to visit and of course, the visa is free for Filipinos staying below 60 days. Check the application requirements here.

There are several things I wanted to do in Seoul, South Korea:
1) Wear an traditional Korean attire or the hanbuk;
2) Visit cultural and historical places (the 5 palaces, shrine, and traditional villages);
3) See the sakura in person;
4) Visit the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ);
5) Visit their Museum;
6) Navigate in their subway system;
7) Tour around Incheon International Airport (one of the world's best);
8) Visit the romantic N Seoul Tower;
9) Shop and eat at Myeongdong Street;
10) Eat authentic Korean dishes; and
11) Visit some of their themed parks.

Those are only a few of the things I wanted to do in Seoul. Yes, just in Seoul for this tour! Yet, I am told that there are more to do especially going out Seoul and experience the natural beauty of South Korea. Oh wow, this is just the beginning of my blog about my visit in South Korea.

Tips: 1) You get free maps at the airport. Grab the opportunity to learn about the city and places to visit nearby. 2) Bringing cash for conversion is good but better have your ATM card and get some cash from an ATM at the airport once to fight conversion losses and just pay a bit of bank charges not exceeding 200 pesos. 3) Download subway navigation application and enjoy using it with your smartphone real-time even without an Internet connection.

More to come here at my avenue, www.ten7avenue.com. Enjoy!

Travel | Going In and Out Yangon, Myanmar

Inside Yangon International Airport
Myanmar has opened its doors to the international community. It is now among the top Southeast Asian countries to visit that attracted more than 4.6 million tourists in 2015. It is more than a million tourist arrivals from the previous year that entered the country via land, sea and air.

It is in my bucket list to visit the country doing a Thailand - Myanmar entry since there is no direct flight yet from the Philippines to Myanmar. The options I considered doing this travel is by land and air. However, browsing the internet of how the entry from Bangkok to Yangon be done is a bit time consuming. For atraveler like me, spending around 2 to 3 days in a country, it will be impractical to do the land travel. The other option I have is flying by a budget airline, it is just an hour fly from Bangkok to Yangon. I have chosen to fly round trip, by then, I am all set for the travel!

Yangon International Airport is new, huge and pleasantly carpeted. Airport staff are courteous but a bit unable to express themselves in English. The only option to take from airport to the downtown area is to ride a taxi. Oh no, I really am thinking of doing a train or bus to save a bit from a tight budget of around US$60. (Exchange rate that time is 1228 Kyats: US$1) My US$60 is exchanged to almost 74,000 Kyats. Well, I have no choice but to take the taxi since a train option will be impossible since, according to the airport staff, no train service during night time.

Reading some online reviews, yes, taxi is the only option from the airport that will cost around 8,000 to 10,000 Kyats or somewhere US$10. There are buses but only those who booked for a tour in the city. Backpacker as I am, D-I-Y is the game. So, upon exiting the airport, there are those taxis in queue somewhere at the rightmost part of the airport. However, a "taxi driver" approached me and said he is an official airport taxi driver. I followed. He then said that US$50 to the downtown - it is a sh%@! I politely declined then he asked me how much I can give, I only said 10,000 Kyats and repeatedly said 10,000 Kyats. I even bargained more to 8,000 Kyats but we settled with 10,000 Kyats. I really am not feeling good with it since he brought me to the parking space where his car is parked - therefore, not really a taxi driver but an opportunist. Then, I saw the queue of taxis and thought I should have been there. LOL

The driver speaks in English but not that clear. Well, we still manage to do the conversation while going towards my hostel. I am seated in front at the left side of the car since cars in Myanmar are mostly right-hand drive. Gladly, i arrived safely in my hostel at La Thar (La Tha) Township.

Train in Yangon, Myanmar
Then, I stayed for 2 days in Yangon, Myanmar. I actually saw the train station! I tried to ask how much it is from the station towards the station near the airport but they can't entertain me. Oh well, failed. LOL

My budget is surviving...

Instruction from La Tha Road to Yangon International Airport
I asked the help of my hostel receptionist on how to get to the airport from where we are. Aung-Aung, the name of the receptionist, is kind enough to write me the instructions in English and in Burmese. The bus option I can have is either bus number 51 and 135. He then said, I should get off at the '10 Miles' Bus Stop. I constantly asked if the bus stop is the final stop, and he frequently answered me with "YES". He also informed me that the fare is around 200-300 Kyats.

Bus 135 from La Tha Road to the Airport
On board the bus, I paid for my fare with 1,000 Kyats and got a change of 300 Kyats. I did not argue anymore that my change is lacking since I cannot understand them. The bus ride is just an hour from La Tha Road to the airport. I frequently watch my map and observe the road we pass - great to know we are on track. Then, we pass the arch saying "Yangon International Airport" and I keep on looking where the bus stop is. Oh well, it is not really a bus stop.

The bus stopped a kilometer away from where I saw the arch and it is not the final stop. I walked and upon arriving to the airport arch, I saw the 10 Miles but not really a bus stop. One should take note of the arch and stop any point after the arch.

From the arch, almost a kilometer walk is still to expect towards the airport. Oh yes, I am going back to Bangkok and catch the trip to Ayutthaya. It is a great experience in and out Yangon, Myanmar. Thank you for the experience!

I hope you'll share your story too here in my avenue, www.ten7avenue.com.

Travel | Stories When Your Flight is Cancelled

Check-in Counter E
The Philippines is highly vulnerable with flight cancellations due to force majeure or natural phenomena such as typhoon, monsoon rains or flood Manila airport. Since the capital Manila is the main gateway of the country, it really is a sure destination where some cancellations of flight will be experienced. It is not a fun thing in the Philippines, though.


Okay, let me share my experience with the recent typhoon with a local name Karen. I am having a vacation in Thailand where my connection to the Internet is less to none. I haven't availed any simcard for Internet connection. I only am connecting via the wifi of either the bus, hostel or airport (if the airport is generous enough to have free wifi).

A day before the flight, I have checked my e-mail if there are flight cancellations made. I received none at that time so I am very confident that the flight is sure to go. However, I really have that feeling of anxiety and I can't sleep. I am worried with my flight and the typhoons. Eventually, I am able to sleep and get up early to proceed to the airport.

To my surprise, there is a long queue of passengers for the same flight I have. I am thinking that my flight is f**ked up! In situations like that, I must keep myself calm and everything will be fine. Since there is a long queue, I am really wondering, why only a single check in counter for the customer services of those passengers with cancelled flights is open? Passengers are then told one by one according to the queue about options regarding the changes of flight. That is sick! The servicing is very low to no movement while the next flight ahead ours is moving so fast with their check in procedures. Okay, I must keep calm. Wait and see game is on!

Travel | Traveling Solo: No Problemo

It was just recently that I am asked one-on-one, "Bakit mag-isa kang bumibiyahe?", meaning, why do you travel alone?

Here is my not so lengthy answer. ;-)

It is just so recent that I travel alone. It is recent as 2012 on a domestic adventure. I never felt alone then since everyone becomes my company during any travel adventure. I am also asked if I am an introvert... Well, being introvert is innate, it is just a matter of how we act on it. I also believe that an extroverted person is a master of being introvert. I mean, it doesn't mean you are not in a group - you don't know how to mingle with people or even face a crowd. A time of being introvert is a time on focusing things in life. A time of being extrovert is a time of sharing a moment of life.

Does it still sound so vague? Okay, let's make it more specific with examples. LOL

For me, traveling is getting to know one's self better. A time when one can find solitude not really soul searching or being nomad. A time when one becomes mature enough to be decisive and have a direction. A time also to develop a skill and character: navigational, communication, calmness, patience, understanding, appreciation, gratitude, discipline, respect, courtesy and other life virtues. In simple terms, you act like a local even you cannot speak their dialect or language. :-p

Another thing, smile whenever you interact. Do not make such a gesture so expensive; give it away freely. In Psychology, there is always a response to a stimulus. In Physics, there is reaction to an exerted force. (I hope I got it right. lol) These are all true unless you are with a bunch of bitter people so numb to interact with the environment. :-p

I usually stay at hostels whenever doing a solo trip on a mixed room or men and women can be in one room with 4 to 8 occupants. It is where I usually meet different types and mixes of people. A simple 'hi' or 'hello' can spark a lengthy conversation talking of the place where you are from. Isn't that exciting? If you are in a foreign land with another foreign individual, you are both foreigners. Well, one of the vignettes of life is 'do not talk to strangers'. However, on a solo travel, conversation and trust are the keys to make new friends. I mean, it should be a mutual thing to be kind and respectful to each other; trust is built not within a minute or two but a good, kind and respectful conversation will build a trustworthy travel relationship. Trust that will say, you will not harm each other. Yet, of course, do not be opportunistic; just have a friendly atmosphere.

By the way, I also have traveled with a group; toured a family outside the country and a friend or friends visiting my hometown. Before a group travel, I see to it that everyone is briefed accordingly. In that way, I can instill a mindset and behaviour to expect outside the country. Well, not only during an international trip, even in a domestic travel. I have also traveled with a group of friends when I am not the planner. It is way more relaxed and just pay for contributions. With a group of people who I know on a travel, I will have less interaction with other people. But when I become separated with the group, one can find me talking with a stranger. LOL

Here's a tip, do not always talk to strangers. You still have to be vigilant of who you talk to. I may have sited an example of trust to strangers but it really comes with a skill to scan a person's personality during a conversation. First and foremost, whenever traveling solo or even a group, talk to people with authority. It may be best to talk to locals directly but a local with authority such as tourist police or somewhat similar like a hostel or hotel receptionist is the bestest. (I can't believe I used the word. LOL) You may be amused to talk with another stranger on travel but still you have to verify information you receive from articles online or through a local with authority.

Traveling alone made me gain a number of friends across nations and regions. It is hard at first but when you get used to it, things will become dumb so simple. You can even save a huge chunk of your budget. :-p

So, back to the question, I hope I answered it. But to answer it with a single statement, 
I travel often alone to meet myself, the place and everyone.

Here are some of my travel photos, who says I am alone? Lol
Ilocandia Tour
Day Hike at Mt. Ulap
Seoul Tour with my Korean Family
New buddies in Seoul
From Incheon to Manila with the Sweet Couple
Lucban, Quezon Tour
New Friends during Pahiyas
Bond in Camiguin
Family in Singapore
OFW in Singapore
Hostel Buddy in Legazpi
Prepping for Day Hike Lake Holon
Kidstagram! :-p
I hope you enjoyed this article. Thank you for visiting my avenue, www.ten7avenue.com.

Travel Tip | Search for a Travel Expo

Participating East Asian countries
Travelers flocking great deals
A lot of Filipinos now have the chance of flying anywhere in the country and even international. Every year, many travel expositions are organized by different travel agencies in the country to provide various options to travel locally and internationally. It may be one of the things in your bucketlist - to travel - visiting a travel expo will surely help a lot.

The Travel Madness Expo 2016 is a jam packed travel expo. You will see a lot of participating countries and travel agencies luring you with their promos and other enticing packages. East Asian countries are among the top of my list to visit. Why? A ticket going there will be a burden for a budget traveler like me. Yes, my standard for a low fare to East Asian countries will be less than P 5,000 roundtrip. Yes, you read right. Most one way ticket going to those countries are more than P 5,000 one way on regular price and above P 5,000 for roundtrip discounted airfare price. Lucky enough if I catch something below P 5,000 roundtrip ticket, which I often get. Lol

Travel Tip: Bring Your Travel First Aid Medicines

Medicines in the Pouch

There are really a lot of people who are fond of traveling. Preparing big suitcases or backpacks for days' or weeks' vacation. I am sure that most of what are packed are clothings, toiletries and gadgets. However, traveling international, do not forget to bring your own medicine. ;-)

Yes, bringing your own medicines especially for emergency reasons is a must. Traveling means you need to move around and there is the first acquaintance of the place, unless it isn't the first time - finding a drugstore may consume time when you need it the most. Also, bringing your own emergency drug will keep you confident that whatever happens during the trip, you know that you have brought medicines suitable for you.

There are 6 medicines I bring along with me anywhere I go. It may be a domestic or international travel I should have these packed. Aside from the medicines, I also have 2 topical ointment with me. These are the following:
1) Paracetamol. I have this just in case I get feverish during the trip. During the travel, you need to move from one place to another - move one - don't be stuck in a place or so, you can't explore your dream place. :-)
2) Ibuprofen. I have this just in case I meet headache. Paracetamol can help though.
3) Vitamin B Complex. Who says that it is just for old people? You can also take this to help your nerves refresh from a day's walk.
4) Loperamide. Oh yes, you surely need this. There are instances that you come to a very interesting place with so much food to taste. Your stomach might be upset. Oh yes, that's something you don't want to happen - getting in and out the restroom.
5) Simeticone. I have tendencies of not tolerating acidity, yes, I become hyperacidic. My tummy gets discomfort, lips cracking and hello restroom. This will surely help a lot.
6) Nasal decongestant. There are tendencies that you will experience change of weather from tropical to cool weather. Then raining then it becomes hot. Hello to colds by then. Bring something of medicine of your choice, I usually choose Forte. It helps me to sleep/rest.
7) Calmoseptin. I use this as a wonder ointment. I can use this on insect bites, burns, scratches and even pimples. Lol. Okay, this is like a cream but this is an ointment, but this is very good for skin irritations.
8) Katinko. It is a Chinese ointment which I feel comfortable to use. Its methol is really soothing. It also helps me when headache strikes and on insect bites to stop more itchiness.

That's my roster. Of course, you can always customize your travel first aid medicine. As much as possible, do not bring so much of medicine - don't bring a pharmacy - just bring a few especially for international travel. It is just to refrain from too much queries during inspection. 2 to 3 tablets per medicine will be okay already. :-)

I hope to hear from you!

Thank you for visiting my avenue, www.ten7avenue.com. Enjoy!


Application of Visa to Korea for Filipino Travelers

Requirements for the Korean Visa Processing for Filipino Tourists
It is in my bucketlist to visit a country that has four seasons or at least to experience winter or spring. The winter season excites me to see the places covered with snow or experience snowfall itself. The spring season also excites me to see flowers bloom especially the sakura! With that being said, I want it somewhere in Japan or South Korea. At least it is near the Philippines and not much of adjustment with time. :-)

Those seasons will be a bit challenging for a Southeast Asian like me. But before anything else, I need to get a ticket going there! Aside from the ticket, the processing of a visa is next for a Filipino passport holder like me. :-)

Travel Buddies: Shoes and Bags

Travel shoes and bags are among the best travel buddies you'll have especially when it is comfortable and durable. Yes, I mean not a person especially to a solo travel junkie like me. But don't get me wrong, I can always go along with a group on a travel but I am often solo on a shoestring budget.

This pair of shoes is an additional to my travel buddies. It is one of the most comfortable I have and hopefully it can carry me for years. LOL Good thing that this pair of shoes is flexible, good for walking, running and hiking. Pretty useful. ;-)

Be In the Predeparture Area in Less Than 10 Minutes

Many people must have watched Amazing Race. It is a fun challenge-filled travel competition from different parts of the world. Many local versions of some countries have been documented also to help explore tourist spots and be flocked by travelers for community gains.

There are many different types of ports to complete a destination. There are airports for airplane goers, seaports for overseas travelers, overland terminals for bus or van travelers.

One challenge that I always want to do whenever traveling by plane is to get in the predeparture area in less than 10 minutes. Yes, less than 10 minutes. Many might not believe but it is possible. Even you travel through one of the busiest airports in the Philippines, the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3. I often start my time after I get off the taxi.

Travel Shoes - Buddies on Long Walking

Traveling is one of the best things to experience while living this life. On every travel, travel shoes are to be used and it should be comfortable to one's feet or else it will be an agony during the trip. :-)

Since this blog will be sharing stories of travel experiences, tips and other things - as introductory piece of some travel adventures - here are some of the travel shoes that become the travel buddies during long walk.
 Shoes are very important travel buddies. One can have slippers or sandals depending on preference. But for travel with long walk, it is suggested to have the shoes instead. There are different types of shoes and its durability to sustain activities is a must to know.