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With Love, Sam

Hey everyone! Today, I will be sharing with you our family adventure this past weekend. My family and I decided to stay for four days at Club Balai Isabel in Talisay, Batangas to unwind and have a change of scenery. There is nothing much to do in Talisay besides renting a boat going to Taal and/or stay in one of the beautiful resorts like Club Balai Isabel. 

The resort is quite big as it has incredible facilities and offers a lot of activities that will definitely keep you busy for days! They have their very own Inflatable Aqua Park, three swimming pools, bike rentals (for as low as PHP 150.00/hour!), basketball/volleyball/tennis courts, and more. You can also rent a jetski, a pedal boat or a kayak, if you wish. Other than the activities I've listed above, they also have a beautiful church as well as restaurants, a bar, gift shops and a mini organic market (across Terraza Cafe). If you want to see the Taal volcano up close, they also offer a boat ride inclusive of drinks (water), a guide and a round trip boat ride for the price of PHP 2,750.00 for 6 pax. 

My family and I chose to stay at one of their suites with an attic since we are a big family and we need plenty of room for the kids. They also have standard rooms as well as other villas and cottages to choose from that can accommodate up to 12 pax. A standard room costs around PHP 5,544.00 Nett/night while a suite costs PHP 7,000.00 Nett/night. (*all prices are subjected to change without prior notice*)

How to get there?

Getting to the resort is very simple and if you're lucky, it'll only take about an hour and a half from Manila to Balai. There are only two ways to get to the resort, either you take the steep journey from Tagaytay or straight ahead via SLEX. You can check out the resort's vicinity map below their contact page for the exact location and for more directions. If you are going there during the rainy season, I highly suggest that you take the SLEX-STAR Toll Route even if Waze suggests otherwise. 

When is the best time to go there?

The best time to go to Club Balai is probably during an off season. It's less cramped in the swimming pools and less noise as well, allowing you to fully relax and maximize your stay. In my opinion, a long weekend on October-November would be a great time to go there. Although rain is more prominent during those months, I think you'll enjoy it more. But if you're the type of person who enjoys clear skies and warmer months, you might want to consider going here during the summer. Just make sure to book early because they're quite popular during peak season!

What to bring?

1. Insect repellant (don't forget this! Unless you want to go home with a ton of mosquito bites!).
2. Sunblock.
3. Swimsuit (rain or shine, you're going to want to swim especially with the great view!)
4. Trekking gear (only if you're going to Taal).
5. Lots and lots of snacks.
6. Easy-to-cook foods (some rooms have a full-functioning kitchen which lets you cook. If you're planning to bring a grill, make sure to ask permission from the management first because there are areas where it's prohibited to use one).
7. Books/laptop (preferably with movies so you can watch some movies if you decide to stay in).
8. Portable wi-fi (not sure how good the connection is for other areas but in the suite we rented, internet's pretty slow. Make sure to bring your own or rent one!).

What to do (besides being in the water all day)?

Having amost four days to scout the entire compound, there are some areas that have really stood out to me as the perfect getaway in a getaway. In order to find them, you'll need a map (which will be given to you at the concierge) or you can check out the resort's interactive map. I've also listed a few simple activities and food/drinks you'd might want to try as well.

1. Watch the sunrise near the pavillion.
This was the first thing I did when I woke up the next morning. It's quite a routine for me whenever we travel to wake up early at least once and catch the sunrise. Walk along Kumintang Boardwalk where you'll see a rocky path with a sign that says "Pantalan". Although there's an alternative route going there, this is an "adventurous" way I prefer myself. Just at the edge of Lakefront Village is a stunning pavillion where you can catch the sunrise or maybe do some morning stretching. 

2. Watch the sunset and feed the fish near Terraza Cafe (or swim).
One nice activity on a lazy afternoon with the kids is feeding the fish. Either at the mini garden across Lakefront Village or by the lake, the kids will surely love it! My cousins and I liked feeding the fish by the lake because we get to see the sunset and the colorful boats as well. It's also a great time to take a swim by the pool at Terraza Cafe.

3. Read a book in Tagong Gubat.
This is best thing to do during a rainy day. Pat on some insect repellant, bring a piece or two of bread for the fish, bring your phone/iPod and your headset (optional); and of course, your book of choice. Finding Tagong Gubat can be tricky because you won't see any sign that leads you to it but once you find it, it's a secret haven indeed. It's pretty quiet in there so you don't have to worry about anyone bothering you (unless there's an event because it has a pretty wide space for one). Either listen to the rain touch the ground violently while getting fully engrossed with a book or listen to music, your choice! Just do it. It will definitely ease your mind from all the stress.

4. Order a Mint Lemonade after a soak in the pool.
I've tasted a few varieties of their milkshakes and smoothies but the Mint Lemonade at Kumintang Bar is just a great drink after a soak in the pool, especially in the hot afternoon. Order one to-go or sit down and watch everyone having a great time at Balai.

5. Rent a pedicab/bike.
If you're with family or friends, this is one activity you shouldn't miss. Feel the cool breeze against your skin as you go around the resort; fill the air with laughter as you take turns and attempt to go uphill; and just admire the foliage and the great view. End your trip by watching the sunset from the pavillion and play hide and seek with the kids. 

That's all for now, folks! Be sure to check out Club Balai Isabel's official website for more info!


Hey there! Did you find this article useful? Feel free to share this with your friends and family by clicking one of the share buttons below. If you have any suggestions/comments, leave a comment below. If you want to collaborate, send me an e-mail at withlovesamblog@gmail.com. Kamsahamnida!
November 04, 2017 5 comments
Annyeong, chingus!

It's been a while, hasn't it? I'm sorry! Been a #TeamBahay person lately bingeing on K-dramas and other tv shows lol! But, I am back and I think the last three months of 2017 will be a tad more active and hopefully that can make up for my absence. 

To be fair, I wasn't completely sprawled on the bed 24/7. I had been testing out some products lately to help my skin through the humid weather. September was sort of a transitional month for my skin as the weather had been super unpredictable. The day would start hot then will occasionally rain here and there. Weird, frustrating and unbearable! Especially if you're the mainitin type. It wasn't helping my skin either. I had a ton of breakouts on my face, especially on my chin/neck, which might be more of a hormone-related problem but the weather has made it worse for me. I know it's already mid-October but I had to make sure it really worked on my skin before I recommended it to anyone.

Since this is my first time to tackle beauty/skincare, I want to remind everyone reading this blog post that you need to know your skin type first before you use some of these products. I have oily/combination skin, which means that I have large pores and can easily breakout plus my skin can get really oily, especially in the afternoon. These products have gotten me through the day whether I'm at home or out and about. I've also added a few items from my makeup bag that you might want to try out as well so without further ado, here are the seven holy grail products I swear by in any weather and ocassion - but most importantly, through the humid weather!

1. April Skin Magic Stone (Black)
This soap is literally one of the best! I was skeptic about it at first because I though it was all hype but when I got desperate to clear out my acne, it did the job! I also noticed that my skin was less oily throughout the day than before because of this soap. Definitely worth a try in my case!

How I use it: I switch out my routine from time to time depending on what I will be doing throughout the day. Sometimes I used the April Skin Magic Stone in the morning; sometimes I would use it in the evening then use my Human Nature Acne Defense facial wash in the morning; sometimes I use the Magic Stone three times a day. It dries out my skin but it's what I needed if my acne got really out of hand. 


Where I bought it: I bought it at an online shop on Instagram called dongdae_ph for only PHP 350.00! Other shops sell this for around PHP 400-900.00.


2. [COSRX] Acne Pimple Master Patch
This product is a saint! I can't believe I didn't use it sooner. When we went to Korea, I kept seeing these patches but didn't pay attention to it but I kinda regret it now. Leave this on for a few hours and you'd definitely notice that your pimples have gotten smaller than the day before.

How I use it: I usually leave the patches overnight so it can work its magic. The patches work best if the area is already swollen and almost ready to pop.


Where I bought it: Bought this in the same online shop as the Magic Stone on Instagram for only PHP 150.00! If you're lucky, you might be able to purchase it for PHP 109.00 on their Shopee store!

3. Acne Defense Solution Gel
I bought this product at Human Nature for PHP 199.75. Pricey for a small bottle but if you will only use it a few times a week, it will definitely last for months. The product's main ingredient is tea tree which is clinically proven effective in reducing and clearing pimples. 

How I use it: Unlike the patches wherein I wait for whiteheads to appear, I use the solution gel as soon as I start to feel bumps on my face to prevent it from worsening. I use my Human Nature Balancing toner first then after it dries, I start dabbing the gel on the areas where I need treatment then let it dry before continuing with my routine.


Where I bought it: I bought mine through their official website but you may opt to visit any Human Nature branches if there is one nearby.

4. Innisfree No-Sebum Mineral Powder
Having oily skin can be such a pain no matter where or who you are. I didn't actually think that this would be effective but I was so surprised with the results! My face was dry for up to five (5) hours after I tested it while running errands. It doesn't matter if you put it as is or if you decide to put it after your foundation/BB Cream, your face will stay oil-free. Of course, there is an exception like if you wipe your face after sweating but a pat or two will fix it right up.
(Fun fact: when I bought this product, I didn't know that this was a hit in South Korea. I only found out while watching Get It Beauty on TvN last month which was voted #1 after having the audience and random people test it)

How I use it: Recently, I'm rocking the no-makeup look (because I rarely leave the house anyway) but sometimes I use it as is or if I want to look a little *extra*, I use my BB Cushion first then the mineral powder next. 


Where I bought it: I bought this product at another online shop called seoulfindsmnl on Instagram for PHP 555.00 (Buy 1, Take 1!).

5. Pony Effect Mascara
Any waterproof mascara ought to do the job to last the day but Pony captured my heart with the bristles of her makeup line's mascara. I also like how my eyelashes look more naturally long and lightweight compared to other mascaras out there. 

How I use it: I usually do one coat on regular days but there are moments that I like to coat my lashes twice to make it look longer and for my eyes to look bigger because I have chinita eyes hehe.


Where I bought it: I bought mine at the DOOTA Duty Free in Dongdaemun but upon searching for one here in the Philippines, even online, seemed like a dead end. I'll try to keep you updated if I ever see one, though!


6. Chateau Labiotte Wine Lip Tint in Sauternes Coral (CR02)
I'm the type of person who doesn't put on makeup going to school like 95% of the time but there are moments that I want to put something light and still natural looking. This lip tint is my go-to product in moments when I want a little color. Truth be told, this is actually my very first lip tint in my entire life. I know most girls, if not all, in high school use lip and cheek tints but I used my extra minutes sleeping than trying to look like a girl lol.

How I use it: I am currently obsessed with gradient lips like what sichenmakeupholic and Pony do in many of their tutorials so when we went to South Korea, I went crazy with the lip products and having been intrigued for quite some time with Chateau Labiotte, I decided to purchase one. The smell is also amazing, btw!

Where I bought it: I bought the mascara and the lip tint when we flew to South Korea last March. I bought this at their store in Hongdae but you can find these ON SALE FOR ONLY PHP 400 AT DARA BEAUTY MARKET! (Hurry! While stocks last!)

7. Everbilena Eyebrow Coat
Honestly, I was skeptical of this product at first but I simply could not let it go after trying it! You can rub your eyebrows a million times and it wouldn't smudge (don't try it though, you'll probably lose strands of hair. It's also sweat proof and I've also tried swimming with it on, it stayed as long as you don't scratch your eyebrows I guess lol.

How I use it: Before I put on this eyebrow coat, I have to make sure that I am satisfied with how my brows look because I will have a tough time erasing or adding more color to my brows as soon as it's on. Fair warning though: if you plan to use a different brush, the smell after it dries out is a little weird so be sure to wash your brush before using it again.


Where I bought it: This was actually a pasalubong from my tita and cousin when they went to Osaka, Japan. They bought this at Daiso/Don Quixote but upon checking some of the Daiso stores here in the Philippines, I couldn't find one. You might be lucky if you have a store nearby, though! Better check it out. If your quest fails, there's always online shops. I actually found one seller on Shopee but I haven't bought from them yet. It also costs PHP 125.00 instead of PHP 88.00.


Besides these seven items on the list, I totally recommend you to try Leaders' Teatree Relaxing Mask (which is hard to find btw) or The Face Shop The Solution Pore Care Face Mask. Both are very pricey, the one from The Face Shop is around PHP 150.00 per mask and the one from Leaders cost around PHP 700.00 in Daiso Myeongdong (yup, I bought it in South Korea) but it's definitely worth it and effective. Also, be sure to drink a lot of water, avoid touching your face (or use alcohol/sanitizer first before touching it), use blotting sheets especially if you're out and about all day to control the oil on your face and maintain a healthy and balance diet (which I'm failing btw lol!). 



Hey there! Did you find this article useful? Feel free to share this with your friends and family by clicking one of the share buttons below. If you have any suggestions/comments, leave a comment below. If you want to collaborate, send me an e-mail at withlovesamblog@gmail.com. Kamsahamnida!
October 23, 2017 No comments
Annyeong Chingu(s) of Manila! 

It has been awhile since I last posted about anything Korean-related but today marks the official first day of the Korean Film Festival 2017 here in Manila and I cannot contain my k-feels! (But let's get serious though, everyday is a KFF day here in the Philippines especially if you watch Korean movies and dramas everyday lol! Raising both my hands because I am guilty as well!)

The Korean Film Festival, which was pioneered by the Korean Cultural Center in 2011, will run across six (6) venues courtesy of SM Cinemas around the Philippines from September 7, 2017 to October 15, 2017. 

The festival, which will kick off with 'How to Steal a Dog' at 7:00 PM at SM Megamall Cinema 6, will feature films such as My Brilliant Life (2014) starring Jo Sung Mok [Jungle Shuffle], Song Hye Kyo [Descendants of the Sun, Full House] and Kang Dong Won [1987, Golden Slumber]; The King of Jokgu (2014) starring Ahn Jae Hong [Fight for My Way, Reply 1988] and Hwang Seung Un [The King, The Man Who Dies to Live]; Twenty (2015) starring Kim Woo Bin [Uncontrollably Fond, The Heirs], Kang Ha Neul [Scarlet Heart Ryeo, The Heirs] and Lee Joon Ho [Chief Kim, Uncontrollably Fond]; Very Ordinary Couple (2013) starring Lee Min Ki [Shoot Me in the Heart, Because This is My First Life] and Kim Min Hee [The Day After, School 2]; and How to Steal a Dog (2014) starring child stars' Lee Re [A Melody to Remember] and Hong Eun Taek [The Accidental Detective]. Lee Hong Ki and Kim Won Ho also appeared in the movie!

Personally, I have seen 'My Brilliant Life' and 'How to Steal a Dog' but I have yet to see 'The King of Jokgu', 'Twenty' and 'Very Ordinary Couple'! What films have you guys seen already? Anyhow, check out the details below if you wish to catch up this weekend! 

Schedule
Films
** ALL FILMS HAVE ENGLISH SUBTITLES **

Admission/Ticketing Information
The Korean Film Festival 2017 is a free admission event and open to the public. Seats are on a first-come, first-served basis. See further details below.
TICKETING INFORMATION FOR MANILA SCREENING:
  • First screening will be a VIP event and open only to LIMITED audience members.
  • Tickets are available for FREE outside the cinema.
  • Tickets will be released on a FIRST0COME, FIRST-SERVED BASIS.
  • Viewers are suggested to line up outside the cinema and wait for the releasing of tickets.
  • For the first screening (12:00 NN), the tickets will be released one hour prior to the screening of the film or earlier if the number of people in line are already too many to be contained in the waiting area.
  • For the succeeding screenings, the tickets for the next film will be released 30 minutes AFTER the start of the prior movie. (i.e. 3:00 pm screening will be released at 12:30 pm; 6:00 pm screening will be released at 3:30 pm).
  • One person can only get one ticket for himself. If they wishes to get a ticket for their companion, they must get back in line to get another ticket.
  • Only food bought from SM Cinema food concessionaire will be allowed inside the cinema.
  • SM Cinema reserves the right to refuse admission to unruly and disrespectful patrons.
TICKETING INFORMATION FOR REGIONAL SCREENINGS:
  • First screening will be a VIP event and open only to LIMITED audience members.
  • Tickets are available for FREE outside the cinema.
  • Tickets will be released on a FIRST-COME, FIRST-SERVED BASIS.
  • Viewers are suggested to line up outside the cinema and wait for the releasing of tickets.
  • Ticketing procedure will vary depending on regional location. Please follow advice of SM Cinema personnel.
  • Only food bought from SM Cinema food concessionaire will be allowed inside the cinema.
  • SM Cinema reserves the right to refuse admission to unruly and disrespectful patrons.
Catch the director and co-writer of 'How to Steal a Dog', Mr. Kim Seong Ho, tomorrow, September 8, 2017, at the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP)!

Materials and story by the Korean Cultural Center - Philippines and CinemaBravo.


Hey there! Did you find this article useful? Feel free to share this with your friends and family by clicking one of the share buttons below. If you have any suggestions/comments, leave a comment below. If you want to collaborate, send me an e-mail at withlovesamblog@gmail.com. Kamsahamnida!
September 08, 2017 No comments
For as long as I can remember, I always bought gifts for my classmates, teachers and family because my lola would always say to me that a gift is a way of saying 'thank you' for what a person has done for me and/or for including me to celebrate their special day. I remember making keychains out of beads and bendable wires to form names to having pins personalized with a cute doodle of the person I am giving it to when I was in gradeschool. As I got older, I started becoming more practical with gift-giving and started looking for inexpensive yet useful gifts for the people I am thankful for.

It was a struggle and a case of trial-and-error but I was able to successfully find the perfect fool-proof gifts for my friends and family that fit my budget and great for any occasion! And with the Christmas season just right around the corner, I no longer have to panic on what to give them! So, without further ado, here are four (4) fool-proof gift ideas perfect for anyone celebrating something special or for the holidays:

Photo taken from Pinterest
Handmade/Personalized items like chocolate barks, candles, gift baskets, etc.
Last year, I struggled to find gifts for my family because I wanted something different and useful at the same time; something that they will not put away for future use then completely forget about it. I went around different shopping malls and bazaars near my area but nothing stood out for me. I decided to check for gift suggestions on Pinterest and I came across various recipes for chocolate barks from indulgent to guilt-free flavors - a perfect and fool-proof gift for anyone of all ages!

Depending on your budget and the ingredients you choose, it can cost you around PHP 600 and up. I was able to spend less than the budget I orginally planned and used the extra for our Christmas raffle and game prizes! Hit three birds with one stone lol. And FYI, the chocolates I made for all of them lasted for only a day and I had to buy a few more ingredients to make a new batch for them haha!



Check out my Pinterest board for more DIY gifts you can give your friends and family!

Natural, Cruelty-Free Products like Human Nature
These products have been a staple in my family's daily makeup and/or skincare routines. We first started using Human Nature sometime in January 2016, using lip balms and essential oils at first, then we tested their other products for haircare, body, etc. and we have not switched to other products ever since!

For those who have not encountered these products, Human Nature is a Philippine brand known for their pro-poor, pro-environment, all-natural and cruelty-free products that started in 2007. Too good to be true, you say? That may be so but these products are absolutely heaven sent! What I love about these products aside from how effective and inexpensive it is, the company sources its ingredients/materials from rural low-income communities to help them make a living. And, their products are not exclusively for women! They also have a line for men, infants to children, and even pets! 


I have always raved about these products whenever someone ask for brands worth trying and I have given my friends a few items from their line as well. They all love it so far! These products are also my go-to alternatives whenever my favorite Korean skincare products run out of stock. You can totally follow the 10-step Korean skincare routine just by using Human Nature!



To know more about their brand, what they stand for and the products they offer, check out their website!  

Planners/Journals
Planners have been my savior since high school. It has kept my schedules organized and it has taught me to manage my time well (although I still procrastinate from time to time hehe). During my first year in high school, I was obsessed with Papemelroti and bought my very first planner there since it was inexpensive and versatile, too! The more I used it, the more I thought it would be a perfect gift for my classmates and teachers and that has not changed until I got to college. I usually like to get planners that are not only inexpensive but has more than just keeping track of your daily activities and ever since bullet journals became a thing, I thought it was the perfect way to start for those who do not have the time to create their own.

I am currently obsessed with my 2017 Belle de Jour Power Planner which I got as a gift from my cousin last Christmas as it lets me maximize its pages with its yearly goals, happiness lists, events calendar and many more! I also like how it includes a booklet called "Perks of a Bella" where it has tons of coupons you can use throughout the year and a card which lets you accumulate points and use it to purchase next year's planner! Savvy, indeed! And a great gift for someone who is always jampacked with tasks!


Where I purchase my planners: Papemelroti, Belle de Jour, Starbucks (accumulation of stickers), Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf (accumulation of stickers), National Bookstore, The Paper Stone, Scribe, and Fullybooked.


And last but definitely not the least, 
SMGP 500
Photo from Nuffnang
Gift Cards and/or Certificates like SM Gift Pass/SM Gift Check/SM Gift Certificate
Have you ever been invited to a celebration at the last minute and have absolutely no time to mull on what gift to give? Been there, done that, and I do not want to ever experience that again! Gift cards and gift passes such as the SM Gift Certificate is the perfect gift for any occasion because you do not have to spend hours and hours checking every store at the mall or worry that someone else might have the same gift as yours (it also saves you from the *possible* humiliation of getting the wrong size! Yikes!). These passes have saved my life way too many times and the best part? It is accepted in all SM affiliated establishments nationwide! 

I like to give these to some of my friends or family members who I am not quite sure about what they might really want and/or if they can afford everything they want. I think it is more practical because they get to choose when or where to use it rather than giving them a gift they might not really like or use.


Here is the list of the SM affiliated establishments that accepts the Gift Pass/Check/Certificate:



Check out GC Regalo's website for more products and promos!


Hey there! Did you find this article useful? Feel free to share this with your friends and family by clicking one of the share buttons below. If you have any suggestions/comments, leave a comment below. If you want to collaborate, send me an e-mail at withlovesamblog@gmail.com. Kamsahamnida!

August 31, 2017 No comments
It's been weeks since our Taiwan trip and I still cannot get over this must-have item whenever you travel! And it only costs for as low as PHP 220.00 a day! 

Whenever we travel, my phone is mostly out of reach because I only own a prepaid sim and I am too lazy to subscribe to my carrier's roaming services. I tried it twice when I went to Dubai in 2014 and Japan in 2016, but it miserably failed me and even left me with a PHP 0.00 balance once. And unlike our booked Airbnb apartment in South Korea that had a wifi egg that we could use for the time being, our Airbnb apartment in Taiwan did not and as a result, I had to search for a great wifi rental service available here in the Philippines. Thank goodness that Miss Ana Gonzales of Anagon's Blog wrote an article about using Flytpack in one of her trips and I decided to put it to the test as well!

Flytpack is an affordable wi-fi router rental that allows you to connect multiple devices at the same time and gives you an unlimited wi-fi access everywhere. Some models (not in picture) can also be used as a portable charger and it is totally hassle free to bring! 

The renting process is quite simple. You can easily do it online in just a few minutes and you can choose whether to pick the device from their office or they will send it to you through a courier service. Same goes for returning it but I opted to drop it off at their kiosk at the airport (they have a drop box at the right side of the kiosk if you arrive during the wee hours). The kiosk is located across the Philippine Airlines Ticketing Office at the Departures area of Terminal 3.


You can bring Flytpack everywhere and the rates per day are not that bad! They even have a cross-country package if you plan to fulfill your dreams of traveling the world and still want an unlimited access to the internet because, let's face it, we need to keep our followers updated (chos!). 


Aside from pocket wi-fi, Flytpack also offers JR Pass if you plan to visit Japan, overseas simcards and attraction passes to selected areas around the world!

My verdict: I will definitely use this for my next trip this year! I had no problems with the connection and it lasted pretty much the whole day even though three of us were connected to the device. I was expecting to get the model that acts as a powerbank as well but it was alright, the smaller one fits right in my pocket and I could easily bring it anywhere (especially when we go out to buy a few things from the convenience stores). Their staff were also punctual to update me from the very beginning until the refund process. I definitely recommend that you try it out!



For more information on Flytpack, just visit their website at www.flytpack.com 
or click here. If you have other inquiries, you can send them an e-mail at hello@flytpack.com or see their Contact Us page for more options.


Hey there! Did you find this article useful? Feel free to share this with your friends and family by clicking one of the share buttons below. If you have any suggestions/comments, leave a comment below. If you want to collaborate, send me an e-mail at withlovesamblog@gmail.com. Kamsahamnida!

August 17, 2017 2 comments


The city view in Taiwan is quite impressive especially when you see Taipei 101, but if you find yourself wanting a refreshing view of the mountains and the sea, and a deeper understanding of Taiwan's rich culture and history then this place is definitely noteworthy for your itinerary!


Nestled in the mountains of Riufang District, New Taipei City is the picturesque Jiufen Old Street known for its golden past, mouth-watering delicacies and century-old teahouses with a majestic panorama of the mountains and the ocean. 

If you are into animated films, you can easily distinguish similarities of Jiufen's bustling streets and attractions with the highest-grossing Japenese film of all time - "Spirited Away" by Hayao Miyazaki. Many have also called Jiufen Old Street as the "Little Santorini of Taiwan" because of how the houses are stacked on top of one another and its incredible view of the sunset.

Jiufen Old Street was founded during the Qing Dynasty (1683-1895). It was only known as an isolated village that housed nine families who would ask for "nine portions" back then, hence the name Jiu (nine) fen (portions). Upon the arrival of the Japanese, Jiufen became a gold mining area and the town quickly developed. Many of its older buildings were retained up to this day to reflect the influence of the Japanese in architecture and culture. In 1989, a movie called 'A City of Sadness' by Huo Hsiao-hsien, which was inspired by the 2-28 incident, was filmed in the streets of Jiufen which gained praises throughout Taiwan and revived the tourist attraction in 1990 up to this day.

How to get there
My tita, mom and I took two buses going to Jiufen Old Street from our Airbnb apartment. The 1062 bus goes directly to Jiufen (and back) for around NT$83-87 per trip. It took us around two hours to get to Jiufen but you will surely enjoy the view as buildings slowly fade from a distance and you are welcomed by small houses and abundant trees.

Other options you might want to try:
TRAIN - BUS (approx. NT$118)
From Taipei Main Station, take the Bannan Line (Blue) then go down at Zhongxiao Fuxing Station [3 stops]. From Zhongxiao Fuxing Station, take the 1062 Quan Ji Tang bus to Jiufen Old Street [23 stops].

BUS - BUS (approx. NT$113)
From Executive Yuan, take the 202 bus to Tainan Adventist Hospital [9 stops] then transfer to the 1062 Quan Ji Tang bus to Jiufen Old Street [20 stops].

Note: depending on the time and your current location, routes might change so I highly suggest using the apps such as Google Maps and Metro Taipei which can guide you in your trip real-time. We mostly used Google Maps because it gives all the important information like expected time of arrival, travel hours, expected amount, etc.

What to do
The view at Jiufen Old Street is really one of its strongest features. Wherever you are, you will surely get a glimpse of the clear blue skies, forests and the sea. They also have these "scenic areas" where they give you the best view throughout the place.

Besides eating and admiring the view, why not try visiting a few of Jiufen's oldest teahouses? We were only able to visit Chiufen Tea House (tea costs a fortune here! lol) but I definitely recommend looking for the Grand Tea House! It is one of the most visited tea houses in Jiufen and was also one of the buildings used as an inspiration to Spirited Away. 

Image result for gold mine museum jiufen old street
Photo taken from TaiwanDay
Another activity that I suggest but we never got to try is to visit the museums. Jiufen was extremely crowded at the time and the weather was no help as well. Jiufen has two museums, one is the well-known Gold Mine Museum where you get to learn about Jiufen's gold mining history and the other is a Kite Museum.




And last but not the least, shopping! Check out the souvenir shops from left to right or visit some of the specialty stores selling paintbrushes (bottom photo), antiques, ocarinas (top photo), handmade masks, etc! You will surely have tons of options for pasalubong!

Where to stay
Many tourists opt to visit Jiufen Old Street during the day but if you want to watch the sunset and see the red lanterns light up the streets, you might want to try staying here for at least one night. Unfortunately, we never got to do so because our flight back to the Philippines was scheduled on the same day and we also had to go back to Taipei 101 for our tax refund.


We were able to pass by a few 'homestays' while walking along the area but if this is a sudden decision, you can easily distinguish which ones accept guests by looking for a gold sign with a picture of a house (see photo above) or you can check out Booking.com's 10 Best Homestays in Jiufen for more suggestions and prices.

What to eat
Taro balls


Taiwan's version of Takuyaki (but with shrimp!)


Vermicelli balls

Misty's Sweet Potato Bun with ice cream

Fish balls
(A Filipino favorite! They also have other flavors besides the original. I recommend trying the kimchi flavored one!)

Deep Sea Squid

Vinasse Balls
(it looks really odd but it is delicious and worth the try!)

Other activities worth trying
Image result for hiking at mt. keelung
Photo taken by My Fat Pocket
If you are up for a challenge, hiking at Mt. Keelung is definitely a must-try while you are in Jiufen Old Street! According to My Fat Pocket, the climb was really difficult and it was filled with stairs but the view is truly rewarding! If you would like to know more about this activity, head over to their blog for more details.


Photo taken by The Girl Who Ate Everything
Cat lovers (or animal lovers in general)! Taiwan has its own cat village! Although the name is not connected to cats (I think it means monkey... or mining), Huotong Cat Village is surely one you should not miss. Aside from its furry inhabitants, cafes, shops and restaurants that are cat-themed are all over the area but they also have a museum if you are interested to know more about their mining days! Visit The Girl Who Ate Everything's blog to know more about Huotong Cat Village!

This travel guide is one of three articles that I wrote about our recent Taiwan trip. 
If you wish to see more, click here.

Hey there! Did you find this article useful? Feel free to share this with your friends and family by clicking one of the share buttons below. If you have any suggestions/comments, leave a comment below. If you want to collaborate, send me an e-mail at withlovesamblog@gmail.com. Kamsahamnida!

August 16, 2017 No comments


Unplanned trips can be a bit pricey so unless you are on a business trip or you are a luxury traveler, you mind every single peso spent when you travel, especially when it is out of the country. 

As a frequent flyer and as the official travel planner of the family, I constantly check on seat sales and find the most cost-efficient ways for our whole family to travel. So you can imagine the mixed emotions I had when I was told that we were leaving in a week. Although this sudden trip was only for three people, I immediately booked the cheapest flight to Taiwan, cheapest (yet accessible) accommodation via Airbnb, and created our itinerary for our weekend escapade in the Heart of Asia. 

Expenses
Combining both pre- and in-trip expenses, we spent roughly PHP 20,000.00 each. These expenses include (but not limited to): airfare, travel tax, accommodation, Klook's city tour, entrance fees, food, etc. 
Note: This computation is good for 3 pax only. The total amount will depend on the number of people joining you and the expenses you will incur during your trip. As for my pasalubongs, I spent around PHP 1,500 to 2,000.00 only. Another thing that you should consider is that If you are going to apply for an e-visa, this will also affect the total amount of your expenses. Also, depending on the season and forex rate, it can affect the prices. When we went to Taiwan, the forex rate was at PHP 1.00 = NT$ 1.66. I deducted PHP 2,800.00 because that is the security deposit from Flytpack which we will get back after we return the pocket wifi.

Tourist Visa/Immigration Inspection Certificate
As of the moment, we (Filipinos) will still need a visa or a travel certificate to travel to Taiwan. Both can be easily applied online but they are also very different from one another. 

If you are a frequent flyer or you have valid or expired (must be less than 10 years) visa in the following countries: United States of America, Canada, United Kingdom, Japan, Korea, Australia, New Zealand, and/or any of the Schengen countries, then you are qualified to apply for an Immigration Inspection Certificate which grants you multiple-entry visits to Taiwan. In addition to that, there are other requirements needed such as: your passport should be valid at least six months starting from the arrival date, you have an onward/return plane/ferry ticket, and you have never been employed as a blue-collar worker in Taiwan. All you have to do is to fill out the form, print it, then show it to immigration. No need to pay for anything.

However, if this is your very first time to travel or you are not eligible to acquire a travel certificate, you will need to apply for an e-visa. The e-visa costs around NT$ 1,632.00 (PHP 2,726.24) and it will take three (3) working days to process. You can also opt to apply for a regular visa through the TECO office. Here is a helpful article on how to apply for the e-visa/regular visa for Taiwan for your perusal: How to Apply for a Taiwan Tourist Visa for Filipinos

Accommodation (Taoyuan Airport & Airbnb)
Finding a cheap accommodation can be pretty tedious especially when you only have a few days left before the trip. Despite reading blogs about cheap hotels/hostels that people stayed in, once you check it online, the prices go up so I opted to book via Airbnb. Thankfully, I was able to book a place which is in a great location too. Public transits, convenience stores, mini grocery/department store, restaurants, etc. can easily be accessed with just a few minutes walk. The host was very nice and prompt as well. The only problem we encountered was, if you have seen our itinerary for the trip, that there was someone staying before us so we could not check in as soon as we arrived and so we had to sleep at the airport then check in around 3:00 PM.
If this happens to you, do not worry. There are hotels/hostels near the airport that you can stay in for just a night and there was even a hostel near our place that costs around NT$ 60-80 per hour, we just decided to sleep at the airport to save money. 
Taoyuan International Airport, as I have seen in many blogs, has over thirty lounges. The only problem that you will encounter, if you opt to sleep there upon arriving, is that the lounges are all located in the Departures area so you will not be able to access them unless you are getting ready to board a flight back home. The arrivals terminal, however, has plenty of seats wherein you can take a nap for a few hours. They also have charging stations that you can take advantage of and the Wi-Fi was pretty fast and it is free.


Extra bedding, pillows and blankets are under the bed. Even the mini staircase has a comparment for slippers or other stuff. 
The apartment we stayed in was very nice and quiet and I loved its space-saving design. There were only three of us but the place was really spacious that a group of five or six can fit in easily. Our host, Miss Piepie Ashley, was really nice and very prompt to answer all my inquiries (even during our trip). The magazine rack you see on the side actually has different types of guide books from the nearest night markets down to festivals/events the country is having that you might be interested to experience. 

Note: Specify what type of towels you need during your trip. We had a misunderstanding and so the towels we had were very small (see the box below the chick pillow under the television) but it was still manageable.

Airbnb apartment link: [ Central Taipei/MRT 1 min/Graceful ]


Where to go
To maximize our three days, we decided to join a tour for one day so we can see most of the top destinations in Taiwan. We took the Hop on, Hop off Sightseeing Tour Bus that we purchased from Klook. In this tour, we got to see Chiang Kai Shek Memorial, Taipei 101, Shilin Night Market and many more.


[ Read about our Klook tour experience here ]


Other than the tour, we went foodtripping in themed cafes and restaurants such as Modern Toilet and Alice is Coming, then went to Shuangcheng Night Market (see 'Where to eat' section below for more details). 


On our last day, we travelled for two hours to get to Jiufen Old Street. The place was swamped with tourists but you will not regret coming here after all the food and traditional goodies you will encounter! The view is also refreshing to see after being surrounded with buildings for two days.


[ See my travel guide to Jiufen Old Street ]

Where to eat

Here is a list of places that we ate in that you might be interested in during your visit:
A. Modern Toilet Restaurant, Ximending
I ordered their Beef Curry. This meal comes with a choice of Green or Black tea, soup, side dish (under the poop cover hehe), and a chocolate sundae (shown below). This meal costs NT$290.00. The bread you see on the side is a separate order which is around NT$120-130.

Modern Toilet Restaurant is very famous in Taiwan and also has three branches. It is known for having seats and plates that look like a toilet bowl. You might think that it is gross but it is worth the experience! Each person is required to order at least NT$120 but a meal costs around NT$290 (almost PHP 500!) which includes a drink, chocolate sundae, soup and another side dish. They also have other dishes worth NT$120 and above. The restaurant can be packed during the day so make sure to be there when it opens or book a reservation through their website. Just make sure that you are booking in the right area. Their branch in Ximen/Ximending opens at 11:30 AM. 

B. Wheel Pies, Ximending

Wheel Pies is a kiosk that sells sweet and savory pies and has a wide array of flavors such as custard, chocolate, sweet potato, kimchi, etc. You might think the menu is weird but I encourage you to try some. We chose the red bean-mochi filled pie and it was delicious! It only costs around NT$20 (PHP 33.00) per piece. They also have traditional flavors which costs around NT$15. What makes these pies so interesting is that they look similar to the japanese pancakes but it will surprise you when you bite into it because the outer layer is crunchy like an ice cream cone and it is not too sweet as well. 


Wheel Pies is just near Modern Toilet so if you are planning to eat there or if you are just going around Ximending, definitely add this to your stop. It will not disappoint you and it is the perfect food to carry around while walking. 

C. Alice is Coming Cafe


This cafe will really make you feel like are in the whimsical world of Wonderland from the moment you open its purple doors. They offer a few meals but since we were already full from eating at Modern Toilet, we decided to order some drinks and a marshmallow toast. Mine is the Chesire Cat! It is a mystery drink but the server said it is a mix of berries or something (also, see how my drink changed from pink and purple to a strawberry shake-like appearance!). Similar to Modern Toilet, each person is required to order something. Also, this might be just me but you have to see the faucet in their washroom! The knob is in the shape of a bunny!!!
We took the cab going here because it was in the middle of the afternoon. At first we did not see it because it was covered by a wall so we went around a couple of times but fortunately I saw the painting outside of the second floor windows. If you plan to go here, the nearest and easily-spotted landmark is Family Mart.

D. Shuangcheng Night Market

This small night market (just one block) sells delicious and authentic Taiwanese street food! Try out their Zhu Xie Tang - also known as Pig's Blood Soup - or the Luwei, a rich noodle soup where you get to choose different meats or, in our case,  animal (beef/pork/chicken/fish) organs such as kidneys, intestines, etc. to put in. We tried the Luwei and it was really delicious (my apologies to vegans reading this post!)

Where to shop
A. Ximending

Although we arrived too early to see the hustle and bustle on the famous streets of Ximending, I can already sense how crazy these streets would be once the stores open... Especially during night time! Ximending is a shopping area similar to Harajuku in Japan or Hongdae Shopping Street in South Korea. It is lined with hundreds of stores and restaurants that attract both the young and the young-at-heart. Small hotels and hostels can also be found in the area for your convenience. The area is also lined with hundreds of vending machines (see photo above) that lets you take home the latest and most sought after gadgets like the latest iPhone, VR Headsets, PlayStations, DSLRs, etc. for only NT$ 100 (PHP 166.00)! Be warned, though, because not every box contains those. Some boxes will have phone case rings, fidget spinners, etc. Also, if you plan to try these out, be sure you have the Line app downloaded to your phone because that is how you are going to receive your prize or add them on Facebook but the characters are all in Chinese so it might be a little difficult unless you ask for help from a friend or your hotel/hostel concierge.

B. Shilin Night Market





Shilin Night Market is like the Divisoria in the Philippines and is the perfect place to shop for your pasalubongs. In the city, refrigerator magnets cost around NT$100 to 200 but in Shilin, it will only be around NT$ 50 to 80. This is also a good place to find cheap but good quality clothes and items to copy the latest fashion trends today. They also sell korean goods such as clothes and socks but it is quite expensive. In Hongdae, socks would cost 1,000 KRW a pair (PHP 45-50.00) but in Taiwan it costs NT$50 (roughly PHP 80 to 85.00 a pair). They also have arcade games inside the public market. The market also has tons of good street food from takoyaki to traditional Taiwanese foods like the Deng Yi - a famous Taiwanese snack that has dried fruit (mostly berries) in between cherry tomatoes. It is also said to be home of the best bean curd (taho) but because of the large crowd, it was nearly impossible to find one!

A useful tip in Shilin Night Market: Try haggling for a cheaper price and always put your bag in front of you (a local told us this!). Also, if you suddenly run out of cash, ask the stores if they are willing to exchange it to New Taiwan Dollar for you. If the store you are in does not accept, try looking for the 'Remax 3C' toy store (see photo below). It is located right across Watsons and Cosmed which is not too far from the Jiantan Station. However, they will only accept up to US$200. And since you are already there, check out the Iron Man toys and collectibles they are selling!




Useful apps
A.  Google Maps
This is my go-to app whenever we travel. Not only does it give you directions to get to a specific destination, it will also indicate any possible traffic you might encounter (if you are using a car), possible transits that you can take including the bus numbers/train line, amount, minutes before the next transit arrives, etc. It will also tell you the amount although if you are going to take two or three transits, it will not indicate how much is each ride. It also indicates the number of stops and each station that you will pass by so you can double check if you are going in the right direction.

B. Metro Taipei
We never got a chance use this app because the bus system in Taiwan was superb that Google Maps never suggested we take the train. However, if you want to try it out, this is the app that you need. It has all the information about the routes, it is fully updated, and you can search directly from Point A to B easily. The app will also indicate the number of stops, tranfers and also the fare. I think the train costs around NT$30 but, again, it will depend on where you are going.

C. Travel Taipei
This app has complete tourist information on everything that is happening in Taiwan from current events down to top tourist destinations that you might find interesting to see during your stay. If you do not have a guide with you, this app is perfect because it has all the information that you need. It also has guides on the night markets, shopping areas, budget hotels and hostels in the area, etc. 

D. Openrice
I came across Openrice while I was looking for more information on Modern Toilet and Alice is Coming. Although I used the website version more, you can definitely use it when you do not know where to eat in your area. Besides Taiwan, Openrice also operates on other asian countries such as Thailand, Indonesia, Hong Kong, etc.

E. CoChange
I just discovered this application when we went to Taiwan (specifically when we were frantically looking for a money changer in Shilin Night Market). This app allows you to locate the nearest money changer/bank in your area. It will also indicate the rates offered and directions so it is easier for you to go there. Unfortunately, I was not able to test out its accuracy since it was a weekend and banks were closed but it is still useful because you can now track the nearest money changer in your location.

Tips + Reminders
1. Before you leave for your trip, have your money changed to New Taiwan Dollars (NT$) at the mall or the airport because a money changer is very hard to find in Taiwan. You can also have it changed at Taoyuan International Airport but they open at 11:00 AM and close at 10:00 PM so if your flight is similar to ours, you will have to wait for it to open. You can also have your money changed near the Tax Refund area at Taipei 101 although they do not accept Philippine Peso. 
2. If you suddenly run out of cash whilst in the middle of a shopping spree at night markets, you might be in luck because some stores accept credit cards. You will have to double check before you place that item on the counter, though.
3. Purchase and load your EasyCard in the convenience store at the airport. This is a convenient way to travel in the city because this is accepted at train stations, bus and even some cabs. An EasyCard is similar to the Beep card here in the Philippines and the T-Money card in Korea. Most people do not understand English in Taiwan and they do not like people taking a long time as well so every time we travel I always search for cards such as these because you only have to swipe/tap the card than asking each bus driver or purchasing tickets at every train station. Just make sure that you have enough load to cover your whole trip or you can re-load it at any 7-11/Hi-Life convenience stores near your accommodation. Usually, the fare is around NT$15.00 (PHP 24.90) when you're traveling in the city but it may vary depending on where you are going (airport fare costs around NT$87.00 and Jiufen Old Street around $98.00-115.00).
4. As I have mentioned, many people do not speak in English but do not fret if you get lost, try asking them using Google Translate or show them pictures of where you want to go or what you are looking for.  
5. Most of the stores open at lunch time and close on or before 10:00 PM. However, there are street markets that extend for an hour or two. In most of the blogs that I have read, many said that Shilin Night Market opens at 5:00 PM but according to the souvenir shop that we went to, some stores open as early as 4:00 PM and close up around 12:00 AM or 1:00 AM. 



Hey there! Did you find this article useful? Feel free to share this with your friends and family by clicking one of the share buttons below. If you have any suggestions/comments, leave a comment below. If you want to collaborate, send me an e-mail at withlovesamblog@gmail.com. Kamsahamnida!

August 04, 2017 No comments
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