Solo Travels, Kpop & Kdrama Fangirling, Events, and Personal Musings
Before the pandemic, it took me six trips to Korea before I was finally granted my first Multiple Entry Korean visa--so all my travels fr...
Read MoreWhen crafting the perfect skincare routine, it's easy to be swayed by social media trends and hype. While reviews and feedback can offer insights into product performance, other crucial factors must be considered. Understanding your skin type, identifying specific concerns, and knowing which ingredients address these issues are key to selecting the right products!
HONOR Philippines has officially launched the much-anticipated HONOR 200 Series, a flagship lineup that brings cutting-edge AI portrait photography and performance at an accessible price point. Starting at just Php 24,999, the HONOR 200 and HONOR 200 Pro are now available for pre-order from July 17 to 26, 2024, with a special offer of FREE JBL Soundgear Frames worth Php 9,499!
 |
| At the HONOR 200 launch |
 |
| Photo taken with HONOR 200 |
Stephen Cheng, Vice President of HONOR Philippines, emphasized the brand's commitment to innovation and smartphone photography. The HONOR 200 Series, co-engineered with Studio Harcourt, a legendary Parisian portrait photography house, features the HONOR AI Portrait Engine. This collaboration combines Studio Harcourt’s expertise with HONOR’s advanced AI capabilities, enabling users to achieve studio-quality portraits effortlessly.
The HONOR 200 Pro boasts a 50MP Portrait Main Camera with a Super Dynamic H9000 Sensor, delivering exceptional image quality even in challenging lighting conditions. The 50MP Portrait Telephoto Camera, featuring a customized Sony sensor, enhances light sensing capabilities, ensuring clear, detailed captures of distant objects. With 4-in-1 pixel binning technology and a pixel size of 2.4μm, users can capture intricate details even in low light.
The AI-enhanced HONOR AI Portrait Engine, developed through extensive collaboration with Studio Harcourt, allows users to create distinctive portraits with a perfect balance of light and shadow. This development involved over 20 experts analyzing more than 1,000 scenarios and millions of datasets over 400 days, ensuring Studio Harcourt's classic portrait style is replicated on smartphones.
 |
| Some of the cool features of HONOR 200 |
The HONOR 200 Pro features a TÜV Rheinland Flicker Free and Full Care Display Certification, ensuring extended eye comfort with 3840Hz Risk-free Dimming. The AI Circadian Night Display and Natural Tone 2.0 optimize color temperature and blue light levels for better sleep quality. The 1.5K Quad-curved Floating Display and 4000 nits peak HDR brightness offer excellent visibility, even in direct sunlight.
Equipped with a 5200mAh Silicon-carbon battery, the HONOR 200 Pro supports up to 61 hours of continuous music streaming. The device features 100W Wired and 66W Wireless HONOR SuperCharge, fully charging in just 41 minutes. With a robust Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 Mobile Platform, 12GB memory, and 512GB storage, the HONOR 200 Pro ensures seamless performance and real-time responsiveness.
MagicOS 8.0 enhances user experience with AI-powered functionalities like Magic Portal, Magic Capsule, and Magic Ring, streamlining digital interactions and ensuring a hassle-free experience.
The HONOR 200 and HONOR 200 Pro are available for pre-order at Php 24,999 and Php 29,999 respectively, with FREE JBL Soundgear Frames worth Php 9,499. Purchase at HONOR Experience and Partner Stores, or online via Lazada, Shopee, and Tiktok Shop.
For more budget-friendly options, the HONOR 200 is available via Home Credit for as low as Php 1,619/month. Inquire here.
Learn more about the HONOR 200 Series here and follow HONOR Philippines on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok for the latest updates.
Explore HONOR's complete list of retail stores here.
More event photos here:
Cebu Pacific (CEB), the Philippines' leading airline, has reinforced its dedication to inclusive air travel in celebration of National Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation (NDPR) Week. The airline launched a comprehensive sensitivity training program designed to enhance the awareness and skills of its employees in serving passengers with disabilities.
Imagine enjoying a spa-like experience at home, where each product in your shower routine revitalizes your skin and reinvigorates your senses. Watsons, the beloved health and beauty retailer, aims to provide this experience to everyone with its exclusive bath and body deals from July to August!
 |
| Are you ready to hoard for your bath and body essentials?? |
Puregold’s Thanksgiving Concert proved to be the music event of the year, setting a tough act to follow.
In a grand celebration of OPM, PPOP, and Puregold’s legacy of success, the retail giant recently hosted the spectacular Nasa Atin Ang Panalo concert at the Araneta Coliseum. Held on July 12, 2024, this musical extravaganza, eagerly awaited by fans for months, showcased some of today’s finest and most beloved local artists, collaborating to create unforgettable music.
 |
| BINI and SB19 surprise the audience by performing GENTO together! |
Take the next step towards a brighter future for the Philippines
Filipinos can say goodbye to skyrocketing electricity bills and unreliable power thanks to a brighter, more affordable future powered by solar energy, according to renewable energy expert Ping Mendoza. Mendoza's endorsement of solar energy follows YouTuber Oliver Austria's video, "Is Solar Worth It in 2024?", which explores the numerous benefits of harnessing the sun's energy.
Oliver Austria uncovers the potential of solar energy in his “'Is Solar Worth It in 2024?” YouTube video
Working in front of my computer or phone for more than half of each day made me appreciate nature trips more. It's such a luxury to just go outside, take a walk while enjoying the greenery and fresh air.
A few weekends ago, I was invited to an overnight stay at Tagaytay Highlands to experience what it's like to have a home so close to nature, without hours and hours of travel time. As they describe their property:
"Tagaytay Highlands is home to The Highlands, The Midlands and The Greenlands, Tagaytay Highlands is a network of exclusive, themed residential communities that’s complemented by Asia’s most exciting golf courses, a selection of restaurants and a variety of leisure activities, all set amidst the stunning views of majestic Taal Lake and the lush, cool mountains."
In my 8 years of loving Kdramas, I realized that my Fan Girling Love Language is buying merch. Official, unofficial, you name it. I express how much I love a show by buying things that remind me of its amazing storyline and characters.
My recent "haul" is from the Kdrama Lovely Runner starring Byeon Woo-seok as Ryu Sun-jae and Kim Hye-yoon as Im Sol. I am so IN LOVE with this Kdrama. Episode 1 palang, it had an impact na on me especially as a fan girl. I realized how much you can "stan" a group even though it means not seeing them live because adulting gets in the way. Grabe, she has to go to a job opportunity! I like how she prioritized that, sobrang responsible fan girling! Then even though she lost her ticket on the way back to the venue, she still stayed outside, very Patron Saint of Team Labas.. And then waved her light stick up in the air, hand on her heart. Huhu! I felt that.
Key takeaway: Not seeing your faves does not mean you're less of a fan.
But anyway, sharing some of the merch I got for my "Lovely Runner Era". :) Again, just a reminder that not having all the merch does not make you less of a fan, too! :) Enjoy lang, and no to toxic fan girling!
Bloggers United (BU) is back and bigger than ever! We are thrilled to announce the #BU20 Content Creators Bazaar, happening on July 14, 2024, Sunday, at SM Megamall Megatrade Halls 2-3. With SMX as our event partner, this Y2K themed event promises an exciting, fun and nostalgic experience, as we bring together your favorite content creators for a day of shopping, fun, and unforgettable interactions.
For tickets giveaway, please visit my Instagram @anagon!
Extends support to bolster HIV testing, co-presents the pioneering RunRio Pride Run
In solidarity with the LGBTQIA+ community this Pride Month, BingoPlus Foundation—the social development arm of digital entertainment company Digiplus Interactive—has partnered with Love Yourself PH—a volunteer-run organization that provides free HIV and STI testing, counselling, treatment, and support—to further raise awareness about HIV and empower more people to check their health status.
 |
| Calvin June Sintoy, Head for External Partnerships of Love Yourself PH, receives a half-million grant from Angela Camins-Wieneke, Executive Director of BingoPlusFoundation, to mark a sustained partnership in promoting HIV awareness and support programs. Joining them are Grace Magno, SM Supermalls Vice President for Corporate Marketing and Coach Rio Dela Cruz, Run Rio President and CEO. |
Health and wellness important during the rainy season
In the Philippines, rainy season is flu season. As PAGASA (Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration) officially declared the start of the wet season in the country, the Department of Health (DOH), on the other hand, is monitoring cases of influenza-like illnesses, as it may increase during this period.
 |
| While flu-like illnesses may be on the rise due to the rainy season, getting vaccinated helps multiply the fun by providing Filipinos with healthier days ahead. |
Since its launched last October 2023 in the Philippines, Y.O.U Radiance Glow Series has been receiving positive feedback and reviews from consumers both online and offline. By understanding and formulating products suited for the unique requirements of Asian skin Y.O.U Beauty created this skincare series for those with oily, combination, and sensitive skin. Developed together with R&D expert Tadahiro Shimada, a former R&D Director of Shiseido Global, we continue to expand this series by adding Radiance Glow Advanced Eye Serum to the set and a limited edition Sakura packaging for your all-time favorite Radiance Glow Illuminating Serum.
 |
| Kim Soo Hyun for YOU Beauty |
Flying is often associated with the excitement of exploring new destinations, reuniting with loved ones, or embarking on adventures. However, amidst the joys of air travel, unforeseen challenges can arise, including in-flight medical emergencies. While such incidents are relatively rare, they can be significantly more challenging to manage due to the aircraft’s confined space and limited resources on board. Fortunately, many airlines have various safety protocols and procedures in place to ensure that they’re prepared for any medical crises.
It's a weekly affair at the KCC!
The Korean Cultural Center in the Philippines (KCC) is excited to announce a series of vibrant K-culture events lined up for June and July. From traditional performances and webtoon exhibits to K-drama concerts and K-pop festivities, there’s something for every K-culture enthusiast. Here’s a detailed look at what’s in store:
Korea Festival in Cebu
Join us for the Cebu leg of the "K-Culture Next Door: 2024 Korean Festival" on June 15 and 16. The festival kicks off with an opening ceremony at 2 PM at the Sky Hall, with festivities running from 10 AM to 8 PM at the Mountain Wing Atrium. Immerse yourself in a blend of traditional and contemporary Korean experiences and performances—all for free!
Cebu Pacific (PSE: CEB), the Philippines’ leading airline, has strengthened its partnership with the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) to create more opportunities for travelers to the Lion City.
 |
| One of my Singapore trips with friends! That time, we stayed in different backpackers inn, watched a concert, and tried so many of Singapore's vibrant local cafes |
Amaia Steps Pasig recently held the topping off ceremony of the Clara Building, its fourth residential mid-rise in the complex, bringing the contemporary development closer to aspiring condo dwellers looking to settle down in the heart of Pasig City.
Amaia VIPs attend Amaia Steps Pasig Clara Building topping off ceremony. (L-R Jemelyn Manongsong, CSG GEO Head; Jasmin Espiritu, MetroSouth Inhs GEO Head; Jeanette Saturnino, MRT Head; Ramon Quiaoit, MDC Operations Head; Deedin Benig-Alulod, North Manila Project Development Manager)
Last weekend, I went to Tagaytay with other content creators to join the Let’s Go Renewable 101 event and learn more about solar-powered, sustainable energy in the Philippines.
This event brought together key stakeholders, experts, and advocates at the Containers by Eco Hotel to discuss the vital role of solar energy in achieving an affordable, locally available, and clean energy-powered future for Filipinos.
With the growing urgency to address climate change and the need for energy independence, the gathering served as a crucial platform to inspire and encourage Filipinos to explore the benefits and possibilities of solar energy and to foster a greener, more equitable, and resilient energy sector.
The two-day event featured engaging presentations and discussions that showcased the practical advantages and transformative potential of solar power for homes and businesses.
With fellow workshop attendees and our commitment board, to showcase our commitment to advocating for a more sustainable future for Filipinos:
Your Korean Dream Team: W Express & KVAC – Say Goodbye to Visa Hassles!
Backed by W Express’ nationwide network of over 100 branches, experience a simplified Korean Tourist Visa (C 3-9) processing, from application to delivery
 |
| (L-R) W Express Executive Vice President Emelita Alcid, W Express Chairman and President Dawn Feliciano, KVAC Managing Director Ahn Kyu Suk, KVAC General Manager Choi Yong Won |
Sunnier days are upon us, which means summer season is here, and for Filipinos it is one of the best times to tick off their travel bucket list or simply spend quality time with their loved ones. The Philippines is gifted with thousand of islands—a variety of spots to cool down during the dry season. Thanks to its geographical features, our country can enjoy stretches of pristine white sand beaches surrounded by crystal-clear waters, caves and other rock formations, unspoiled mountain ranges, and many more sites that both locals and foreigners can enjoy.
While you may think that flip flops, sunglasses and hats will be the main character of your go-to summer bag, don’t forget to save some room for your sunscreen to keep you protected from the harmful effects of excessive sun exposure, which can cause visible signs of aging such as wrinkles and hyperpigmentation.
Despite the fact that sunscreen is probably on top your list for outdoor activities, it’s actually a good practice to use it year-round and make it part of your daily skincare routine. Y.O.U Beauty’s commitment to improve one’s skin health goes beyond the surface level, the transformation it brings gives you confidence and ultimately achieve that long-lasting beauty from within.
Instead of buying skincare in Olive Young, I decided to make my own during my short visit in Seoul. It's the perfect activity while in this city that loves beauty!
Summer trips are here, and even in the city, I can feel the intense heat of the season. It's time to arm ourselves with the essential defense against its rays.
Have you heard of the trending Korean makeup brand FWEE? I chanced upon it while in Seongsu, waiting for my slot for the J-Hope Pop-Up.
 |
| Fwee's cute pop-up in Seongsu, Seoul, South Korea |
Have you been looking for a tool that will help you boost your confidence and enhance your silhouette? Have you had the opportunity to try shapewear? These garments will provide firm support while smoothing out the curves of your body.
Thanks to wholesale shapewear you will be able to find many options that are there to cater to different outfit choices and of course body types. To make your more informed decision we want to share some of the most popular styles that keep continuing to dominate the shapewear market.
Another class I joined while in Seoul was Perfume-Making.
Actually, there are a lot of studios offering this kind of class, but I chose the one easily booked through Klook called the GN Perfume in Seocho. I later found out that GN stood for GOOD NOSE!
→ Seoul Self Perfume-Making Activity in Seoul by GN Perfume Studio
 |
| What's your favorite scent? |
I joined a Korean Full-Course Meal Cooking Class at a Local Home during my recent Seoul trip!
Just keep running, man!
The most-watched reality game show on Philippine TV in 2022, "Running Man Philippines," is back on GMA Network for a more hilarious, entertaining, and fun-filled season.
 |
| Photo from GMA Running Man PH |
Oatside, the irresistibly tasty plant-based milk brand, launched its adorable Pocket Pack Series in the Philippines with the fun and colorful Oatside Pocket Festival.
 |
| Dani Barretto |
During the HUGE Taylor Swift craze due to her Singapore concert, I watched my peers' adventures on social media as they traveled to SG to watch her in her one and only Southeast Asian stop.
My Day 0 for the Korea trip:
One interesting experience for me was of Kim Chiu's (the actress) which she posted on her Youtube. She showed how she traveled, changed her clothes, went to the concert, and then went back to the airport all in a day to watch her fave live. She even shopped for makeup in between!! Kim had no luggages with her, just a backpack, her concert outfit, and a few hours to get to the venue on time = The perfect recipe for an adventure. It looked so much fun and exciting! BUT I also thought that it's something that I will never ever do! Iba ang rush and stress! It was nice though to live vicariously and just experience it second hand through her vlog.
You can watch this Kim Chiu Taylor Swift Vlog here:
Even during the AgustD's DDAY tour, we really planned everything to the T, making sure we have AT LEAST TWO DAYS allowance before concert day in case something comes up. True enough, we had boo-boos during our hotel check-in which made us even more decided that we will never ever book a trip on the same day of a concert we're going to. It's super risky!
One of my ultimate fan girling core memory: Suga's DDAY Tour!
But as you might have known by now from my IG or Tiktok posts, I ate everything I said for the recent Seventeen Follow Again Tour in Incheon.
I was all set for my spring trip, making sure it will not fall during Holy Week since my family goes to recollections during those dates, when Seventeen suddenly announced their concert dates and it was during Black Saturday and Easter Sunday! I said to myself, if maka bili ako ng ticket for their second day, which is same day as my flight to Korea, i-go ko tong concert nato. Bahala na. True enough, I was able to buy a ticket!! And so off we go to Korea for a same-day con!
One of my favorite views <3
It was a 2:40am to 7:55am flight, so I was hoping I get some sleep!
Lights were switched off for most of the flight, and I had the row to myself. But I was twisting and turning the whole time. I think I only had a MAX of an hour of straight sleep!
Anyway, looking back, it was my very own Kim Chiu moment, haha! I flew early morning from Manila to Incheon. Prayed there will be no delays and mistakes coz I couldn't afford it with my time constraints.
After the usual immigration and claiming of checked in luggage, I went to my usual airport errands for my travel essentials. Sharing some tips here in case you will also find yourself in a same-day flight and concert situation someday!
1) Everything's on the same floor, so don't forget these Korea travel essentials:
💰 Withdraw some cash (Or have your money exchanged if you prefer it that way). Cards are generally accepted everywhere, but in case of emergency it's best to still have on hand cash. There are international banks and ATM machines everywhere at the Arrival. I prefer just withdrawing KRW coz it's convenient, and charge is only about PHP 200. I use my BDO Debit Mastercard and it works every time.
🚆 There's a CU right across the money changers and ATM where you can buy your transportation card. It can be T-Money or Cashbee. You can reload your card at the train station.
📱 And lastly, before the trip, make sure to pre-purchase a local sim card via Klook so you will have internet connection while traveling in Korea (use my promo code KLOOKANAGON for discounts!). I have yet to try the E-SIM which I am sure is more convenient since no need to claim it, but I used to have a locked sim card phone with SMART. I only got a new phone now, but as usual, even my physical sim card experience in Korea was hassle-free.
2) Prepare for Battle! Grab something to eat. Freshen up and change into clothes you'll wear to the concert while you have the time and logistics to do so.
I had my lunch in Starbucks that I passed by heading for the SPA ON AIR or the airport jjimjilbang. There are other food choices in that area, but in case your flight is red eye and most of the shops are closed, there is always CU convenience store (where you can also buy your T-Money or Cashbee card)
Had a quick bath at the airport jjimjilbang. Felt so nice to take a hot bath and change into clean clothes!! The space is perfect for quick freshening up, and I only paid PHP 500.
Had to EAT for more ener-energy, lol:
3) Decide on Logistics. Where will you leave your bags? Will you still have time for check-in?
I took the airport train to get to my first hotel for this trip. Very convenient, since the hotel I picked is just 2 stops from the airport. You can also take a cab.
Super convenient train system since it's their airport railway, there are a lot of elevators and escalators.
Ang tagal ko din pinag isipan to during planning:
➡ Should I just book for a night at the airport (iwan muna bags sa luggage storage services),
➡ Do I risk and book a hotel na agad in Seoul? (Kaso ang layo pa ng Seoul, e nasa Incheon nadin ako)
➡ I also almost booked an Airbnb very near the concert venue (since there were no walking distance hotels so bnb nalang).
But later on I CANCELLED it when I realized that Airbnbs have late check-ins, and have no concierge that can help me with bags storage in case I don't want to wait for check-in time. May napala din ang pagiging over-thinker!!
My first whiff of Korean air for this trip while on my way to my first hotel:
With these factors, I realized that a TRANSIT HOTEL is the best option for me. One that is either near the airport or near the concert venue, or saktong asa gitna lang nila. Must be near a train station too, para iwas taxi and long walks while still carrying all my luggages.
I stayed in Incheon Airport Hotel Zeumes. Booked a room via Agoda for PHP 3,124.49 / one night. It's a bit pricey compared to my usual hotel room budget, but sulit talaga for the convenience and the hotel room itself--very spacious and comfortable.
Clean toilet and bath, and super spacious din for a Korean accommodation:
Great location, 2 stations away from Incheon Airport, and just across and a block away from the Unseo subway station. Travel time from airport to the hotel according to Google Maps is only about 13 minutes.
Anyway, the transit hotel I picked was perfect. I can go anytime to leave my luggage at the concierge. They have 24/7 staff in front so I can check in anytime at night after the concert. It was super hassle free and highly recommended!
More tips from my personal experience that might be useful for you someday!!
💥 Bring an EXTRA POWERBANK. Since I've been traveling since the night before (check-in was around 11pm, flight was at around 2:40am) I didn't realize that I have been consuming my powerbank the whole time that few hours before the concert, palowbatt na phone ko and wala nading power yung powerbank ko! My friend came to the rescue with her extra powerbank, but imagine going to a concert with just 35% battery waaa!
🍕 BUY FOOD on your way to the venue. In case. Yung nanyari sa akin, wala na palang food halls near the venue, which is a long walk pa from the train station. It was my first time there, so hindi ako familiar sa area. I was starving but also lazy to walk back to the train station, but I met up with a friend who had an extra powerbank AND samgak kimbap in her bag! Ahhh thanks T!
My lifesaver, T! Hahaha! I can't imagine, in all my "strong independent female solo traveler" facade, that I will face these minor travel boo-boos hahaha. So thank God for FRIENDS! :)
How I bought my Kpop concert ticket:
I always get this question on my Insta! So here are some tips.
General tip: Stay updated with your favorite Kpop groups' activities by following and joining Facebook and Twitter groups that post anything and everything going on about your idols. I also have a Weverse account with my notifications ON so I am on top of everything.
Another important thing I did was getting an Official Membership for Seventeen, also available on Weverse via the Weverse Shop tab. You will really get higher chances to buy a ticket during their official fan club members pre-selling vs when selling is already open to all.
Set an alarm for everything so it won't slip your mind. Make reading a habit, and plot everything on your calendar. From registering your membership to the site (They sold the tickets on Interpark, announcements were made via Weverse), to actual ticket purchasing. Be online an hour before the schedule para naka open na yung tabs.
Be DECIDED nadin on what ticket tier you're getting (and your plan B, C, D in case soldout na your first choice...) hindi pwedeng doon palang mag iisip. Walang time for that na talaga. Ready your online payment options, I used my BDO Mastercard for this, but I have a Maya card as back up.
Pray, and good luck!!!
Ending this post with this photo, my first cherry blossoms (?) or cherry blossoms ish sighting for this spring trip! A sign of the great week I'll be having back in my second home. ♥
