As usual and as with any other goodbyes, leaving my Seoul guesthouse gave me a certain weird tingling feeling on my tummy:

LG Electronics is producing its most ambitious and wide-reaching campaign to date, one headlined by one of today’s hottest K-Pop boy band BTS!

Black-haired BTS boys!!!!

With summer comes dry skin, body dehydration, and even drier hair! Now that I am back for a while here in our tropical home, I prepared a few products (new and old) that I will use to keep myself hydrated for the coming days. Sharing to you my short list!

I've said this a million times in my former blog posts, but if you're a new reader, here's how I fix my most recent Korea itineraries!

I do TRY to plan them on-the-dot, day-by-day, even BY THE HOUR just so I won't waste a day. But for Kdrama locations, I simply just make a LIST of locations I want to go to or I haven't been to and not be OC on the dates. 

I will write down the place, then research the nearest train line either by Google or by checking out Google Maps. And after all these important information (nearest subway, nearest exit, name of the place in real life so I can navigate them through Google Maps), I will arrange all of them by train line so I can go to the closer ones in one day and hindi yung patalon talon ako sa malalayo at magkakalayong locations!

I love the outdoor train stations of Seoul during spring! It's not so cold, and the air is really nice and fresh!

I am a big commuter during travels.

If I have all the money, then I would taxi my way to all my destinations to avoid the back pains from carrying my huge maleta--but I am still far from that level HAHA! One thing that I truly appreciate though when commuting is you really soak yourself to a bit of the Korean's everyday lives. Seoul is a popular tourist destination already, so you will encounter not only huge flocks of locals, but also tourists, like you, manouvering their way around Seoul's vast public transportation system. Pulling a huge maleta? You are not alone!

The variety of people you encounter is endless, and as with anything, everyone and everything seems to have a story to tell.

I am a big coffee drinker. I usually consume a minimum of one mug per day at home after lunch. When it's a lazy day, I also drink another mug in the afternoon so I can write more blog posts or go to the gym energized. 

I buy Nescafe Gold for my instant coffee because it tastes so good and easier to prepare than brewing. One time, I was with my sister and her friend who is into natural coffee. She has with her a French Press which she brought even when we dined in Jollibee. She said she prefers her own beans because some fast food serves coffee that are already watered down so hindi na masarap. She offered me to try her coffee, and I was hooked! I bought my own paraphernalia online, and when they finally arrived, they were left in the kitchen and I haven't used them since.

Around last week, I received a pack of drip coffee on the mail. It came with the small cup and single serve pot, and of course a pack of Key Coffee Drip-On "Variety Pack". I immediately tried one after lunch, and was so so convinced I'll buy more of this in the coming days!

ATTENTION: ARMYS!!!!

The global music phenomenon and K-Pop superstars BTS will star in an all-new YouTube Original series exclusively available on YouTube Red, titled BTS: BURN THE STAGE!! This is a Big Hit Entertainment + Youtube Red Original Series!

I am so sorry, but I've longtime lost most of my western songs to Kpop (specifically to Kdrama OSTs). 😅 Since I'll be traveling to Korea today, I am sharing here my list featuring some of my favorite songs on-repeat during flights!

Trying out this headset from leading German audio specialist Sennheiser during their Sound Heroes  event last March 20, 2018 at the Blackbird Nielsen Makati:

solo photo by @charlieshotme 

My events for this month are mostly summer-themed already! As sloooow as January is, suddenly March is just about to end that we have to welcome the peak of Summer 2018! ☀

I am in no way a summer girl, but I love a few things about this coming month:

1) Beach trips and vacations

2) Colorful and hippie outfits

3) Good times with my family and friends!

Photo at my most favorite beach yet, Puerto Princesa, Palawan:

Just so I won't be a big KJ this summer, here a few preparations to make this season enjoyable and a little bit more carefree!

I've tried all sorts of Korean sheet masks, but my first one I remember it was from Mediheal because it looks so "medical", haha! This was in 2016 on my first Korea trip with my friend Tracy. We decided to end our first day in Seoul by purchasing sheet masks and use them before we sleep. We searched Myeongdong for a good brand and sobrang clueless ko pa noon!!

Now, two years later, I have tried so many sheet mask variants and brands and I have to say all of them are really good. But if there's a brand that's MORE THAN good, I think it's Mediheal. I tried it again after using a series of affordable and easier to purchase brands that are available locally. Iba pala talaga ang Mediheal! You will still feel the moisturizing effect on your skin the next day when you wake up. A bit pricey, but you'll see the difference when you try it!

So thrilled to receive this on the mail the other day, thank you Watsons!

Monday is my Sunday. I usually go out to run mall errands, go to the gym, and restock on my groceries. Today I went to the nearest Metro Department Store from my place (Alabang Town Center) because they have a department store and grocery section, and also to check out the remaining promo items from yesterday's Sidewalk Sale. Sayang. They have so much good deals last weekend but so sad I missed out on some of them because of family matters!

Not to worry though, they have MORE summer and travel related sale items when I got there earlier! 

Sharing some of them here:

I'm traveling again soon, so I find myself preparing and packing a few stuff everyday till my flight. The earlier the better, so I can edit them again day-by-day before I actually leave. You know how much I love my facial regimen, but as much as I would like to bring my whole skincare and makeup kit, my luggage allowance wouldn't permit me to do it, hehe. Thanks to my past trips, I've learned a few tips and "hacks" on what beauty and makeup products to bring for my travels, and so I thought of sharing them here! 

If you have more strategies to share, then please do comment them on this post so we can learn from each other! 

Here goes mine.....

If you're a fan of the classic girl (or boy) next door style like me, then you'll love the Original Penguin as much as I did!

But did you know that.....

1) Penguin started as an UNDERWEAR factory in Minnesota?! This brand has an interesting and colorful history which you need to read on their Facebook Page.

2) Penguin became a clothing brand in 1955, and was then spotted on the OGs Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Arnold Palmer, and Clint Eastwood! This marked the brand as a true American classic.

3) Today, Penguin's classics was reworked to fit today's lifestyle without compromising the heritage that made Penguin's name. 

Even local celebrities Stephanie Zubiri, Kuya Kim Atienza, and Christine Jacob Sandejas are fans of Penguin, and were present during the new store launch at the Power Plant Mall!

4) For the first time, you will see a PENGUIN HOME AND TRAVEL section! Only in this branch, they have comforters, pillows, and even luggages!

5) This Penguin branch has a BARBERSHOP inside the store! A partnership with Felipe and Sons, I love that they call it the "House of Handsome"! Let's just say it's an all-in-one shop!

And of course, 6) Aside from the iconic pieces, expect fun clothing and accessories from Penguin's Spring 2018 Collection Mixtape! Check out my sneak peek from yesterday's store visit:

It was love at first sight! Haha!

Do I have female readers who also loves shopping from the men's section? 😀 I am so guilty of this that I often get my shirts and jackets from the boys haha! 

Visit the new Original Penguin store the the 2F of the new Power Plant Mall wing, Rockwell Makati. ❤ See you there!

At my age (I am 32) I am at a point where I am willing to invest on skincare and makeup products if they really really work well on my skin. I've been through enough bad breakouts that I appreciate products that are effective and make me feel good about myself. For years, I have invested on a one year card of monthly facials with Flawless because their Acne Control Facial did wonders to my face!

And with that said, it surprises me every time I discover really good products that have student-friendly price tags! Nakakatuwa kasi ang dali tuloy imaintain kahit maubos na sya. I still try other products that I receive as a blogger, or stuff that I picked up during a Korea trip, but right now here are my go-tos for my daily makeup looks that wouldn't break the bank:

To: My Flower
From: Kwon Jiyong

"I want to live a beautiful life like a floral pathway. We’ll meet again when the flowers bloom...."

Just a few weeks ago, GDragon officially began his mandatory military service for South Korea. Before leaving for around 2 years, he released a special, limited edition gift for his fans called The Floral Pathway. This package is exclusively distributed by Lazada in South East Asia, including the Philippines. I felt very very lucky to have the chance to be part of our country's unboxing in Lazada's office.

To Get It Out Of The Way....

What is a Travel Bra?

Wacoal Mood, a brand created by Philippine Wacoal Corporation specially for the MILLENNIALS, recently opened their first concept boutique in the Philippines at the UP Town Center QC.

Along with the new store is the launch of their TRAVEL BRA Collection. These bras are functional and stylish underwear that you can ROLL AND FOLD to fit your luggage without deforming them!

I know people won't believe me, but I applied for a Korean visa for the past SIX visits I made in their country. EVERY SINGLE TIME. I thought it's not a big deal anymore, and okay lang ang hassle basta approved naman, but it came to a point where I really said that maybe I am just not meant for a multiple visa because of my line of work (self-employed, blogger). 

I cannot count anymore how many times I've visited the Queen City of the South that I didn't notice till now that I've already created a series of "Things To Do in Cebu" blog posts. Like in any other destinations, I still look forward to visiting the different sides of Cebu and seeing it as if it's my first time there. True enough, there is still so much to see and do! And although my schedule for this work trip is a bit tight, I made sure to still avail the few hours I have to enjoy my vacation.

If, like me, you've been to the sunny south several times already, then here's a list of new places that you can visit on your next trip. If you want it hassle free, you can also check out http://www.philippinestravelpackage.com for Cebu packages and day trips that you can personalize according to your preference and budget. Someday, I might take their island hopping option coz I've been dreaming of seeing the beachside of this beautiful city!!

I have nothing but good words for the online travel show "Red Talks" by AirAsia which they released last year. Each of the 6 episodes I tried to catch online were inspiring, tackling wide topics including AirAsia's founder Tony Fernandes' story, the wonders of Yogyakarta (on my bucketlist now), and my favorite, the last episode, which is a tribute to all travelers from different walks of life. Aside from the great stories, I also love the visual treats, the script, and how the host Ms. Daphne Oseña-Paez narrates with so much sincerity!

This year, AirAsia returns with another RedTalks with Daphne! And I couldn't get any more excited for a season two! 

Ultimate purpose of the quick Cebu trip is to attend the launch of AirAsia RedTalks Season 2, but of course I took initiative and visited other parts of Cebu with fellow blogger Rochelle! Will dedicate a separate post on where we went near the city!

This is a Sponsored Post.

I've been traveling for a few years now that most of my funds go to my trip expenses. But recently, I finally caught myself unreluctant in discussing to my dad about owning a car. I used to shove the topic before because I know I can't afford it! Although it seems to still be a far off goal, I knew that someday I have to get my very own vehicle and even learn how to drive. For me, it's a basic life skill, and I can see myself achieving this at least by next year! 🙏

Road trip with my blog friends to Pampanga a few weeks ago for the Hot Air Balloon Festival:

Here are the reasons why I am now open to getting my own car:

1) I think it is more economical, compared to my UBER and Grab expenses. Just a few days ago, I compared my taxi fares with my sisters who has their own cars for years now, and I think I spend even more compared to them!

2) Safety reasons! It's now more than ever scarier to commute, plus our public transportation system in the country are always in wreck!

3) And of course, having my own car means more ROAD TRIPS! I can just imagine monthly beach trips, nature escapes, and food hunts that are just about 2-3 hours away from the city. There's so much freedom that comes in owning a car, plus I would love to see more of the country I live in!

Some of my favorite recent road trips ....

A beautiful view of Clark, Pampanga during Hot Air Balloon Festival:

Sunset surfing in La Union:

Las Casas Filipinas De Acuzar in Bataan:

Now what specific car model to get? Every year, Cars.com test hundreds of models to advice car buyers on what's the best options in the market. New cars and redesigned models are introduced year after year, so it's best to get to know which ones perform well through Cars.com's Best of 2018 Awards. I am also sharing my notes below while researching for my future "car goals".

How to Choose the Right Road Trip Vehicle:

1) Car's Capacity - How many persons will fit in the car? How's the legroom? How many luggages and other gears will fit the vehicle? I used to dream of owning a cute Beetle or any small car, but now I have to consider space constraints especially since I also participate in bazaars where huge car cargo capacity is required!

2) Choose A Car with Great Gas Mileage - Best to get a fuel efficient vehicle. Make sure you won't be spending too much on gas with a car that needs constant refill.

3) Car's Comfort - Make sure that your road trips equate to smooth and comfortable rides by testing the car first around the block. How's the suspension? Is it a quiet ride? Are the seats comfortable? Make a list of your car non-negotiables to make sure your vacation will run smoothly.

4) Car's Safety Features - Almost all recently released cars have the basic safety features such as seat belts, but you can also avail other care safety devices including airbags, seat belt alerts, backup cameras, and even automatic emergency braking.

4) Car Technology (Entertainment and GPS) - You'll be on the road for hours, so make sure you enjoy the journey with a playlist that you can connect to a car with Bluetooth capabilities. Staying on the right course, you might also need an in-car GPS.

Pretending to know what I am doing, haha:

A few weeks ago, a dear friend posted an online status that says how much he missed the good old days of blogging when bloggers actually write and not just post heavily filtered Instagram photos. Although I agree with the lack of "writing bloggers" as I myself sometimes find my Macbook's Reading List meh on days when I just need to feed my brain through reading, is it just the bloggers to blame?

I have to be honest, I was a mess yesterday. I don't even know where it came from. After years of being the strong, independent woman who travels alone, lives in a dorm, who enjoys eating in a resto "for one", the girl who goes to see a movie solo flight to laugh / cry her heart out .. That girl, is finally affected by Valentine's Day. (HOW! OTOKE! HAHA!)

I've only been to a Disney theme park 3x in this lifetime.

First one is in Hong Kong Disneyland with two of my long-time friends from high school. It was a little bit delayed as we went there when we were already working and can afford an out of country trip, but we enjoyed our Mickey Mouse-shaped ice cream and indoor thrill rides as if we were kids again.

Second time was in America, in Disneyland California with my family during our 2013 holiday trip. Again, we were too old in age but still young at heart.

The third was still in Hong Kong, but this time I went alone early morning on the last day of our trip just so I can try Disneyland Hotel's buffet breakfast with Mickey Mouse and friends, and of course to see the giant maze I only see on Instagram!

Fourth time, and already in my 30s, I still look forward to my Tokyo Disney Sea Day with Deegee! We agreed on setting it on our second to the last day, and came in our twinning swag Mickey hoodies that we bought the night before in Harajuku. I thought it was just going to be a chill theme park day, but I did not realized I was in for a looooong day with a millennial boy who just loves thrill rides as much as I do back when I was his age HAHA!

I was running 30 minutes late, still stuck in EDSA before CUBAO when the show already started. 

And I haven't even had my e-ticket exchanged in SM Tickets yet HUHU sobrang hassle! My voice cracked when I finally reached the ticket booth at the second floor of the department store in SM North EDSA--which is still around 15 minutes away from the venue. 

"Late na po ako Ate, on-going na po ito." 

They hurriedly printed my actual ticket, then I dashed--jumped in between legs and feet sticking in the "walk" side of SM's escalator as if I was part of a relay. When I reached the vicinity of the Skydome, I saw "Team Labas" members who then pleaded to me as I went in, "Ate buksan mo ng malaki yung door"--And so I did, with all the energy I had left! 

There was an ocean of screams from outside, as the usher strapped a pink paper on my left wrist, and escorted me to my seat. In fairness walang nag occupy! 40 minutes late, but finally! Hello Jisoo! It was nice to see you again!

While editing my photos for this Siargao post, I only have one thing in mind: PLEASE TAKE ME BACK.

Annyeonghaseyo! 

Yesterday is a happy day for me! Tired from the Hot Air Balloon festivities, I still found myself running out of the house just to attend Korean actor Kim Jisoo's Manila presscon for his fanmeet My One and Only Jisoo. No regrets, I finally met one of my main oppas! And if there's one second lead who really struck me the most, it's Jisoo's Strong Woman Do Bong Soon role as the childhood friend Guk Doo!!! 

I love talking about your travels, it's just my thing! During yesterday's long road trip from Manila to Clark Freeport Zone in Pampanga for the 22nd Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta's opening day, we realized that time flew because we talked and talked. My friends said I was so hyper, haha! I was just interested with all your travel stories!!

Just my luck! Before the first month of the year even ended, new beauty products arrived in my house for me try and surprise surprise not a single one of them is Korean!

Ever since my eyes were opened to the world of Kbeauty, most of my day and night skincare regimen are from Korean brands. They are easy to use and almost all of them work so well on my skin it's so hard to replace them. I only have a few products that stayed that are not Kbeauty, like Japan's Biore Aqua Rich Watery Essence, and Beachborn's Healing Toner. Now I have these new products to experiment on from The Body Shop, Infracyte, and Human Heart Nature.

If it's effective, then I am very much open to using them! I am now on my first week of using these brands since I got home from the beach and my skin needs the extra care. So far so good!

I think getting my period during my travels occurred one too many times already that I see it as something unavoidable and even normal. I have a friend who will plot her menstrual cycle and make sure not to fly during her time of the month, but no matter how I try to keep track with apps and calendars, in the end I find myself just saying YES to every travel opportunity that comes my way! Especially if the airfare is cheap or it's for a blog assignment, how can I say no to adventures!?

You might have seen this already on social media. Millennials can't help but adore this all-pink building, and every corner of this 5-story shop screams "take a photo of me for your Instagram!" Haha!

I'll say it, Stylenanda is a genius when it comes to rebranding, and some brands might pick a lesson or two from their transitions. I remember when they were still all-black and only have clothes back in early 2000. Look how they transformed themselves into a one-stop fashion and beauty store that every young local and tourist alike would love to go to. It's now a part of most women's Seoul itinerary! Isn't that a marketer's dream!?

It's not enough that they have cool products ranging from makeup (3CE) to clothes, but they're also giving their guests the ultimate "experience" with their store's cute installations, easy to swatch product testers, and even a must-visit cafe on the 5th floor! Whether you're there for the makeup or the cotton candy coffee, or to take photos (that you will eventually post for your network to see), it's all win-win for Stylenanda.