Why I love traveling

Growing up, I never imagined going out of the country every now and then.  From the day I was born till 2010, the only countries I've been to were Hong Kong and the United States of America.  It was in 2010 when it became a yearly tradition to leave the country every September just in time for my term break in De La Salle University.  

In 2010, my Dad decided to bring us to Singapore for a vacation.  In 2011, we went to Seoul, South Korea. In 2012, my Dad joined me in my supposed solo trip to Taipei. In 2013, Me and my aunt went to Vietnam and Cambodia.  Who would've thought that for 4 consecutive years I'll be going on vacation every September. Not until 2014 when I started working and I kept on thinking twice if I should go on a vacation again.

Enough of my September tradition, it was in 2012 when I became addicted to traveling. It was the year when I spent most of the days outside my home country. Last January 2012, I got an opportunity to be an intern in Singapore for 6 months. During my stint in Singapore, I grab all the opportunity to go out of the country. I traveled almost every month. I've been to Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia, Hong Kong, and Thailand. When I went back to the Philippines in June 2012, I thought it was over but then I became more addicted to traveling by going back to Singapore in July, Taiwan in September, and China in October. I also booked a flight to Brunei for November but decided to ditch it to save up for another trip.  I ended 2012 with a 22 day trip to Singapore-Malaysia-Australia.

In 2013, is a bit lie low compared to 2012. I visited Australia, Singapore, Japan, South Korea, Vietnam, Cambodia, Malaysia, and Singapore. BTW another trivia about myself, the last time I spent New Year in the Philippines was last January 1, 2011.  I believe that by being out of the country during new year will bless you with many more travels ;).

I typed a lot of things but it's not addressing the title. See below for the list of why I love traveling

• I love the feeling of being in an Airport
• I love riding the Airplane
• I want to meet new people
• I want to learn new culture
• I want to get lost in a foreign city
• I want to escape reality

People will say it's a waste of time and money but for me traveling is a lifelong experience. Something I will cherish my whole life. Traveling made me a better person believe it or not. I will not be this awesome without all the traveling.

Best Tourist Destination in Asia

When people ask me what's a good country to visit around Asia, I usually have one answer to them.  To be fair, I don't recommend Philippines and Singapore to them because I consider these two countries as my home.  I've been to different countries in Asia namely: Japan, China, Hong Kong, Macau, Thailand, Indonesia, South Korea, Malaysia, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Taiwan.  Out of all these countries, I believe South Korea is the best. There are several reasons why I love South Korea above others. Allow me to explain as this blog progresses.

#1 Weather
The weather of South Korea is way different than what we Filipinos got used to.  They have four seasons. You can experience Snow if you go to Korea during Winter season.  I suggest going to Korea during Spring or Fall hehe.  I'm not really a big fan of single digit temperature.  Other Asian Countries may be too hot or too cold.  Weather is an important factor.  You might have a hard time going around if it's too cold or too hot.  In addition, some attractions might be close.

I'll give the best weather to Japan and Korea.

#2 Expenses
I can say that Korea may be a bit expensive than Manila but it is way cheaper than Japan.  I can say Korea and Japan are almost the same but the cost made Korea way better than Japan.  Japan really empty your wallet. The minimum fare when riding the subway in Korea will be around 30Php while in Japan it's around 60Php.  It may still be expensive but Japan, Korea, Hong Kong, and Singapore's MRT/MTR system are the best I've seen.  It's way better than Malaysia and Philippines. I believe you guys know that Tokyo and Osaka are the two most expensive city in the world.  Seoul is actually cheap you can find a decent spacious accommodation for a good price.  I highly suggest Namsan Guesthouse on this one.  It's right in front of Myeongdong (shopping district) and Namdaemun is just around 5-10mins walk.  Namdaemun is like Divisoria.  Everything's cheap!

Cost wise I believe Vietnam is the cheapest. :)

#3 Tourist Attraction
If Museums and Palaces are your thing, then Korea and Japan would be an awesome destination.  Gyeongbokgung was awesome!  Japan has its own palaces as well.  Thailand also have good temples! Taiwan also. You can also try DMZ tour in Seoul.  It's a tour that will bring you to the border of North and South Korea :)

Best Tourist Attraction : South Korea, Japan and Thailand

#4 Theme Park
I'm a thrill seeker. I love theme park. It's my dream to visit all the theme parks in the world.  Allow me to rank all the theme parks I've tried in Asia.

Top Themeparks in Asia
1. Everland - South Korea
2. Ocean Park - Hong Kong
3. Universal Studios Japan
4. Universal Studios Singapore
5. Disneyland Hong Kong
6. Lotte World - South Korea
7. Legoland - Malaysia
8. Enchanted Kingdom - Philippines
9. Genting Highlands- Malaysia
10. Star City - Philippines

China - Home of Asia's Biggest Tennis Tournaments

Shanghai Rolex Masters Poster

China Open Tennis

If ever you don't know, I'm a huge tennis fan. It's my dream to see Novak Djokovic and Serena Williams play. China's the only country in Asia to host top tier tournaments.  China Open in Beijing is a Premier Mandatory tournament for women while Shanghai Rolex Masters is a ATP Master Series for the men.  China Open attracts both Men and Women however not all men plays there.  Shanghai Rolex Masters on the otherhand is exclusive for Men.  Almost all top players play there.  If you're a fan of WTA go to China Open, ATP go to Shanghai Rolex Masters, ATP&WTA China Open.

My 1st trip to China

Cebu Pacific, a local budget carrier, always have promotions every now and then. Luckily, last 11/11/11, I was able to get a cheap deal to Shanghai just in time for the Shanghai Rolex Masters.  I booked a flight that departs on a Thursday which is ideal for me because may school ends on a thursday and when I arrive in Shanghai it will be just in time for the Quarterfinals of Shanghai Rolex Masters.  The second opportunity I got was in 2013 when I booked a flight to Beijing then depart from Shanghai going back. This will allow me to cover both the China Open and Shanghai Rolex Masters.

Entrance

Djokovic Practicing

My 1st Shanghai Rolex Masters was a life changing experience. It's my first time seeing all my favorite tennis players especially Novak Djokovic.

At the Entrance of China Open 2013

My 2nd visit to China was more fulfilling because I have 2 of my friends with me who helped me have a better experience. My 1st stop is China Open 2013. We didn't have any tickets yet so we just bought the ground pass worth 10 CNY or 70 PHP. This will enable you to watch matches in courts other than the Moon or Diamond Court.  

For 70 PHP you can watch tennis live!

Since it's quarterfinals day, most of the good matches are inside the stadiums. This is the reason why we relied on scalpers to get ticket for the Li Na vs. Kvitova and Serena vs. Wozniacki match. Luckily, we were able to get tickets and watch 2 awesome match. 

2nd Time in Shanghai Rolex Masters!

Learning from experience, it's always cheaper to buy scalper tickets! We went to Shanghai Rolex Masters and bought ticket from scalpers. From what I can remember, we bought it for around 700PHP for a stadium ticket with ground pass and it's good for the whole day.  When you get inside the complex, the first thing you need to do is look for the practice schedule.  This is the best way for you to see your favorite tennis players up close and get an Autograph.

Usually there's also an English version but if you can't find it. You can rely on the Seed Number or ask help in translating. If the practice is anywhere other than the Main Stadium then you can score an autograph. During our visit we were able to get autographs from the following tennis players: Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal, Roger Federer, Stanislas Wawrinka, Tomas Berdych, and so on. But let me post a guide on how we were able to score an Autograph on the Big 3

First up is Roger Federer. I have to warn you because Federer is the most popular tennis player among the Chinese people. You will have to push and be a little barbaric to score an autograph with him.  The bouncer will not hesitate to push you if you try to come near him.  I myself rolled over the grass because everyone is trying to go near him. Luckily, we were able to get an autograph. If you want to see him practice, you need to be on his practice court an hour or more before his schedule.

Next is Rafael Nadal. Unlike Federer, it's easier to get an autograph with Nadal because of the lesser crowd but still a lot of crowd. I was able to get a good spot just behind him. Nadal is actually my priority because I wasn't able to see him last year.  Watching Nadal practice means I am missing Novak Djokovic's match in the stadium.  No regrets though because I was able to get an autograph from Nadal and I was able to get an autograph from Djokovic at a later time.

If you missed your favorite tennis player during practice, don't worry because there's still hope! After their match you can go to the autograph area! Usually the autograph area are for members only but you can always try to go in ;). During my 1st trip to Shanghai Rolex Masters, Djokovic went out after the match of Federer. However on my 2nd trip, he went out in the middle of the Federer match.

TIPS!!!!

• Wait for Cebu Pacific Seat Sale!
• Since fuel surcharge is no longer included I bet it will be cheaper now
• Do not buy China Open/Shanghai Rolex Masters tickets in advance!
• Trust me it's cheaper to buy from scalpers
• A stadium ticket is accepted in all courts.
• It's not very strict inside the stadium. You can always come closer if you want :)
• If you want to see your favorite tennis player, WATCH THE 2ND ROUND not QF,SF,Finals
• It will be cheaper and most of their practice session are not in the stadiums
• Some of them will play in the outer courts.
• I was able to watch Stanislas Wawrinka up close!
• You'll be sure that you will see your favorite tennis player.
• Federer was knocked out a day after we watched him in Shanghai! (3rd Rd)
• Buy a huge tennis ball! Trust me it's a good investment
• Don't be afraid to push or force yourself near the players. This is a once in a lifetime experience give it your all
• Don't be too starstruck.  Everytime I ask for an autograph from Novak Djokovic I lose my mind. I forgot that I have a lot of stuff for autograph.  This is the reason why I made him sign on my huge tennis ball twice despite the fact that I also have a poster to be signed!
• It's always better to have a buddy to help you take pictures. It's hard to take pictures and get autograph at the same time.

The Travel Bug in Me.

After a long random day, I decided to revive this blog. I'm planing to make it a travel blog to document all my travels :). It's always better to keep a diary of it. I have several draft of my travels and I'll be publishing them in  a few minutes.

To Travel is To Live

Few days ago, one of my friends posted a photo with the motto "to travel is to live." For the past 2 years, I've been traveling out of the country almost every month. Now, I feel like I lost something not being able to book whenever there's a sale.  One thing changed. I'm now working. I don't feel contented with my life no matter what happen in my every day life. I feel like I need to go to Europe, Africa, and South America first before I become contented . After that, I can stay at home and work my ass off.

October 2013 Beijing-Shanghai Trip Itinerary/Report

I decided to create a post just for itineraries so it will be easier for me to remember everything if ever I want to blog about it.

October 3:
Departed from NAIA Terminal 3 bound to Beijing

October 4:
Waited for Poppy to arrive from Jakarta.
Spent 3 hours looking for our creepy hotel
Left the hotel around 6am bound to Summer Palace
Went back to the hotel to rest
Went to China Open (watched Serena Williams, Li Na, Kvitova, and Wozniacki in action)
WangFuJing

October 5:
Mutianyu Great Wall
Beijing Olympic Park

October 6:
Beijing Zoo
Beijing Olympic Park
Forbidden City (Outside)
Sanlitun (Meet up with Stef and Ms. Leng)
Drum Tower

October 7:
Tianamen Square
Forbidden City
Train to Shanghai

October 8:
Arrived in Shanghai
East Nanjing Road
Yuyuan Garden
The Bund
West Nanjing Road

October 9
BEST DAY EVER
SHANGHAI ROLEX MASTERS....
Xinzhuang Mall

October 10
Orient Pearl Tower
Peace Hotel
SG Mall
East Nanjing Road
Old Hutong
Pudong Airport :(

Seoul-Searching in South Korea

Finally, I am traveling alone on my 3rd attempt.  My first attempt was when I booked a ticket to Taipei but my Dad decided to come with me which is good.  My second attempt was when I booked a ticket to Beijing and Shanghai because I wanna see Serena Williams and Novak Djokovic.  Thankfully, my friends Johan and Poppy decided to join me. It's a good thing they joined me because they were my photographer during the Shanghai Rolex Masters and Beijing China Open.

Since my last out of the country trip was just last month (October 2013), I'm actually planing to skip the Seoul trip because I still don't have a visa, hotel bookings and so on. However, 2 weeks before my trip I realized that this is a good time to visit and getting a South Korean Visa is not that hard since I have a US, Japan, and Australian stamps and visas. So I decided to push through with the trip.

Believe it or not I am a budget traveler .  You wouldn't believe me when I say I spent less than 20,000 pesos for my 5 day trip to Seoul. My budget includes everything from airline tickets, taxes, shopping, DMZ Tour, accommodation and so on. I mastered the art of budget traveling.  This is actually the first trip that was funded by me. I didn't ask anything from my Dad except for the travel tax ahahah. I don't know how I did it but I did.  BTW this is my 2nd time in Seoul so I didn't go to Nami Island.

Day 1 - Arrival

My first Photo in Seoul this year

My flight arrived around 8pm but because of the number of flights arriving at the same time, I was able to get out of the airport around 9pm.  Incheon Airport is very far from the city you can either take a cab, bus or train.  Among all the alternatives, the commuter train is the best alternative which cost around 3850KRW compared to the 10000 KRW bus. However, it might be hard to go and transfer between train stations if you have a lot of bags with you. BTW Seoul is not Manila. Seoul's subway is much better than our train system here in the Philippines.  The only thing that makes going around Seoul subway hard is the lack of escalators in some station but you can use the elevator but it might take time.  Anyway, I arrived in my hotel around 10:30pm

My hotel is located near Gwanghwamun station. It's a few steps away from the nearest subway exit.  There are many good restaurants around and there's a grocery beside it. When I arrived, I decided not to sleep yet and went out since it's not yet that late and I'm craving for my favorite Korean Corn Dog.

I learned that they have a festival in Cheonggyecheon Stream. Too bad I went there late and  almost all the food stalls are closing already except for one. I decided to buy whatever is in there and went back home to sleep.

Day 2: Everland Day

Admiral Yi Sun-Sin's Statue

Everyday I usually walk 2 or more stations before going to my final destination. As I've said a while ago, my hotel is a few steps away from Gwanghwamun Station but then I only used it 2-4 times during my entire stay. I usually use Anguk Station from my hotel.  Anguk is 2 or more stations away from my hotel but I usually go there because  I want to walk and enjoy the surrounding.  I really enjoyed walking but not early morning when the temperature is below 10 degrees and my hands are freezing to the point that I go inside a public restroom and wash it with warm water. Going back, I usually go to Gangnam Station first to catch the bus to Everland.  Gangnam is a popular place because of Psy's Song. It's actually similar to Ginza of Tokyo. Nothing much to see for me. Moving on, Bus 5002 which will take you to Everland stops in Gangnam station in front of Krispy Kreme. It's actually the easiest way to go to Everland since it's somewhere outside Seoul. Everland has discounts for for foreigners. Instead of paying the normal 44000 KRW entrance fee you will just pay 35000 KRW.  How? Google it.

Why is Everland my favorite Asian Theme Park? Why not HK Disneyland or Universal Studios Singapore? I don't like Disneylands but the one in Anaheim is really good.  USS is okay lah. I only go there for the Battle Star Gallatica Roller Coaster and the Mummy.  I'm a huge fan of extreme rides this is the reason why I love Everland in South Korea, Dreamworld  and Movieworld in Australia, Six Flags and Knotts Berry Farm in the US, and Ocean Park in Hong Kong. Everland, Dreamworld and Ocean Park has a lot of things in common. They have it all. They have extreme thrilling rides, zoos and so on. These theme parks are really worth it.  Seoul's Lotte World is crap.

Below are the attractions you shouldn't miss in Everland. (Not in photo: Double Rock Spin)

K-Pop Hologram Concert (Forget 2NE1. Psy's Concert is better)

Safari World

European Park

T-Express. Formerly the world's steepest wooden roller coaster.

I decided to leave around 4pm because I was really craving for my favorite Corn Dog in Myeongdong.  However, I decided to pass by Namdaemun first before going to Myeongdong.  This is actually my usual ending route for 5 days: Namdaemun to Myeongdong to Cheonggyecheon Stream to Home. 

Namdaemun Market

Namdaemun Market is comparable to Divisoria or Baclaran. I believe they sell the cheapest souvenirs.  I bought some keychains and Korean Flag before leaving the area on my way to Myeongdong.

Myeongdong at Night

Myeongdong is a shopping district! Definitely heaven for shoppers. They have H&M, Zara, Uniqlo, Forever21, Guess, SPAO, Nike, Adidas, Face Shop, and so on. FREE WIFI ALL OVER MYEONGDONG! I even faced time my aunt while walking around.  I usually roam Myeongdong for an hour before heading to Cheonggyecheon Stream on my way home.

Couples in Cheonggyecheon Stream

Walking in Cheonggyecheon Stream made me realized that there are many couples in Korea. I feel like it's really normal to show affection everywhere.  It's not really that bad. It actually sets a mood that this city is full of love. I can feel it all over. I enjoyed watching how they show affection to each other ahahaha.

Day 3: Roaming around Seoul (Bukchon Village, Palace, National Museum of Korea, IP Park Mall, War Memorial Museum, N Seoul Tower)

If it's 5 degrees WEAR SOME GLOVES!

This is the most tiring day ever. I went to a lot of places but I only used the train twice. Imagine how many kilometers I walked just to go from point A to point B. 

Destination 1: Bukchon Village

My very first photo taken by someone in Seoul

Bukchon Hanok Village is in between Gyeongbokgung and Chakblablah Palace. You can use the map provided to go there haha.  It's actually a tiring walk going here because the roads are uphill.  Nevertheless, it's worth the trecking.  

Destination 2: Cha.... Palace

a photo near the secret garden

This palace is included in the UNESCO list so why not give it a try. I decided to go there instead of Gyeongbokgung because I haven't been there and I already visited Gyeongbokgung before.  If you're a first timer I highly suggest to visit Gyeongbokgung and watch the changing of the guard. BTW entrance to this palace is 3000KRW. However, if you're game for palace tour and you want to visit all the palaces in Seoul you just need to pay 10000KRW for all palaces ;)

Destination 3: National Museum of Korea

National Museum of Korea

National Museum of Korea is located near Ichon Station. It's actually worth a visit. It's free. It's really nice inside. Free Wifi inside! hahaha. Not really interested in going around so I decided to leave after exploring the 1st floor. I'm more interested in knowing more about the North and South Korean War so I decided to go to War Memorial Museum after an hour.

Destination 3: IP Park Mall

This is how I order. Take a photo of the display and show it to the cashier. (GENIUS)

Omw to War Memorial I came across IP Park Mall. I decided to stop by and eat my lunch and buy the No-Sleep Gum. It's a very useful gum that will keep you awake if needed. You can buy it in E-Mart Supermarket around Seoul.

Destination 4: War Memorial Museum

Outdoor Museum

This museum is free but for me I believe it's worth more than that.  This is the first free museum I saw that houses a 4D Theatre, 3D Theatre, Cinema, Tour Guides, Shooting Games, and so on all for free.  You will really learn a lot from this Museum.  You can see that North Korea is really a powerful country when it comes to war. They outnumbered South Korea when it comes to the number of tanks, guns, airplanes, and so on. Good thing there are a lot of South Korean supporters. Philippines is actually one of the countries who sent SK some aide.

List of Filipino Soldiers who died during the Korean War

Destination 5: N Seoul Tower

Locks of Love in N Seoul Tower

To go to N Seoul tower simply go to Chungmuro Station Exit 2 and wait for the yellow bus in the nearest bus stop. I heard there's also a yellow bus stopping in Myeongdong Exit 3. Up to you where you want to ride the bus as long as you get there.

N Seoul tower is a must for couples. There are lovers everywhere. It's really a romantic place to visit.  You can go up the tower for a fee. Go to Teddy Bear Museum and so on.  There are a lot of things you can do in N Seoul tower.

Destination 6-8: Namdaemun, Myeongdong, Cheonggyecheon Stream, Home

The final leg for the day was my usual route. The only difference is that I stopped by H&M and bought 2 pants. hahahaha

Day 4: DMZ Tour, Itaewon, Seoul Station, Namdaemun, Myeongdong, Cheonggyecheon Stream, Insadong, Home

DMZ Tour

TBA

My beautiful tour guide.

TBA

Day 5: Lotte World, Olympic Park, Namdaemun, Myeongdong, Cheonggyecheon Stream, Home, Airport

TBA

Lessons:

Traveling alone in a city full of love isn't that bad at all. I was able to relax throughout the duration of my trip. I talk to myself sometimes but it gave me a better perspective.  I did everything I want to do in Seoul. I met new people and gained new friends. It's really an unforgettable experience. It gave me more confidence now. I'm really very happy and I'm looking forward my next trip alone and my next trip to Seoul hahahaahah.

After this trip, Seoul, South Korea is my favorite city besides Singapore of course. I love almost everything about this city.

Tips:

Seoul is not really a very expensive city. Learn how to budget and you can enjoy the city for less. I enjoyed it despite spending less than 20000. I was able to eat what I want, buy what I want, and go to places I want to go. Do some research and plan everything ahead. You can ask me for suggestions if you want. ;)

I highly recommend Seoul for couples who are looking for a good place to go on a vacation. As i've said it's a very romantic city.  In Seoul, you can go to palaces, theme parks, shopping, and so on. You can really do everything here! 

Seoul is way better than Tokyo not only because Seoul is cheaper but also because of the environment Tokyo has. I feel stressed in Tokyo. I feel like no one would even bother to stop and look around. Not a good place for Solo Traveler. Also, Seoul's subway station is really nice and efficient. I actually have an app that will tell you exactly what time the next train will arrive without using data.