San, Jose Tarlac: A Farm Story

I am a city girl. Having been born and raised in Baguio City, I have not been a fan of the provincial life until I was able to experience it myself - the simpler and more rugged life. Ever since then I have tried to experience what Henry David Thoreau has said “Simplify! Simplify! Simplify!”

This is what the long weekend has been for me. It was an invitation from Tita Janet to visit her farm in San Jose, Tarlac. At first we were hesitant to come along because typhoon Mina was up. We never regretted it when we experienced the fun of the simple life. Of course, I was lazing inside the tent and sometimes sharing stories with people who have been more like a family to me through the years. The food was great and although the place was a little muddy because of the rain, all in all it was a one of a kind experience. It was my first time to actually go camping.

We stayed in a tent meant for two people and continued under the tree house to eat sumptuous meals and “merienda”. While I was trying to secure myself, I would catch a glimpse of the children braver than me to meddle with the affairs of a farmer’s life. There was a nearby pond where one could fish and places where one could plant seeds. It was part of the itinerary that weekend to plant trees but because of the rain, we weren’t able to do so. But still some, especially the children, were not afraid to get wet and dirty. Here are the snapshots of what simple life is all about.

Malaysia: Myths and Truths

From Manila to Singapore, we took another flight towards Malaysia via Tiger Airways. They say Tiger Airways are known for their delayed flights. Well, that's at least what I've researched through blogs. But before our expected flight, Tiger Airways was able to update us earlier of our changed flight schedules. So it just depends on  a person's initiative to browse through his flight details in his/ her email.

Another myth I've searched before the flight in Malaysia is that people should dress conservatively. This I believe is true for even tourists were dressed down in Malaysia. No bikinis in beaches or pools and no showing-off too much skin especially when you are visiting the temples.

They say that Petaling Street is dangerous. Our hotel was exactly located in Petaling Street and it gave us easy access to everywhere we went. The deals and the street food were really good! There were a few shopping malls but getting to Petaling Street is a sure way to save money. There are a lot of tourists whom you could meet along the way. It makes you feel right at home.

They say also that Malaysia is not good for women. But in our three days there nothing bad happened. They say taxis are a no-no especially when you're alone. But we even met Katharina, a lone traveler who said she just felt right at home. We even hailed a moving taxi at 5:00 a.m. that morning to take our flight. Even the MRT was easy to find. Even the Batu Caves can be reached easily through the KLCC MRT.

The Petronas Towers were amazing architectural forms. Although we got only to the 10 RM sky bridge, the view was amazing. If you want a closer look at the top, for 30 RM you can reach the more than 300 plus floors. Don't worry about getting there because the elevator goes really fast. Of course you have to wait in line before 8 a.m. together with other tourists so that you can really get in. As the day goes, the longer the lines can be. The gate opens at around 9:30 a.m.

The Menara Tower is also amazing, do check it out also. Have yourself enjoy the KL Hop-on and Hop-off ride. You can easily access the scenic spots for a day just by riding the bus. It's Malaysia's answer to making themselves the most visited country in South East Asia.

Just a few reminders before going there, be sure to be alert and vigilant as every traveler should be.

Snapshot From the MRT

The MRT Tickets: Showcases the Petronas Towers

The Petronas Towers in all its glory!

At the Back of the KL Hop-on and Hop-off

A Glimpse of the Batu Caves

Outside the Menara Tower

Singapore: Backpacking

Often called the city of fines, there are more things you can find in this country. Actually, the no smoking, no littering, no spitting and no jaywalking signs just add up to the fact that they have a more disciplined citizenry that they have absolute care for nature, safety and the lives of the people. I think everything is organized there. From the well-planned MRT routes to buses, there's a sense of well-planned structures and infrastructures. I think these are what the Philippines have to learn from Singapore.

More than this fact, Singapore is a shopping haven for designer clothes, shoes and bags. That is if you have the budget. It is better to commute around the MRT cheaper than the high rates of taxis and get yourself into the shopping malls of Orchard Road and Marina Bay Square. Actually, right beside or outside of an MRT station is a shopping mall. I wonder how they managed to put all  those malls there! But if you're looking for budgeted shopping then go over to the Bugis Street. Especially for ladies clothes and the Filipino so-called "pasalubong", it's where you'll find the good deals. If you're up for gadgets or electronic devices, then check out the Sim Lim Square which you can find a street walk away from Bugis Street.

But Singapore is not all shopping! Check out the sites that is exclusively Singapore. Sentosa is one of the landmarks most visited. Just head on to Harbourfront near Vivo City Mall and take a shuttle towards Sentosa. In Sentosa, you'll find the Resorts World Casino, the theme park Universal Studios and other attractions like the Merlion replica, Imbiah Lookout and the beaches like Siloso Beach with free admission. There's also Marina Bay Square where a water show can be seen every 9:30 in the evening. Check also the famous Fountain of Wealth where you can through the walk way at around 7p.m. and touch the inner fountain and whisper your hopes of being wealthy. At around 8:30 in the evening the water, lights and music commune to give you a performance. Clarke Quay is the night life spot especially when you're near Singapore's only river. Take a deep breath and feel the fresh air go through your lungs. You can even have a short cruise over the said river. Singapore I think is the real city of lights.

Talk about the food and then you'll be in for a variation of Asian and Western cuisines. Just try to find something within your budget. There are expensive restaurants as well as budgetted food courts everywhere as there are malls there.

Special thanks to the accommodating owner Rajul Patel and the affordable stay at Smeet Home. It was fun living the backpacker's life.

The Busy Bugis Street

Night View: Marina Bay Sands

Universal Studios: Singapore's Landmark Theme Park

Fountain Of Wealth at Suntec City

Merlion Park View at Night