Why Everyone in Hong Kong Should Ride the Star Ferry!

10:00:00 AM Pinoy Boy Journals 18 Comments

ALL-TIME FAVORITE POST FROM 2011 RE-BLOGGED:

Most people who go to Hong Kong maximize their MTR pass by shuttling from Kowloon to Hong Kong Island through its efficient and superb train service. When I went there the second time around, I was tipped to ride the star ferry going to Hong Kong Island. And boy was I right with my decision. The view was spectacular and the cool breeze was so refreshing. I had a grand time walking around to all directions and effortlessly wait for a few minutes before the boat docks to Hong Kong’s financial district.

Next time you're in Hong Kong, better make sure you skip one ride to the MTR and head to the Tsim Sha Tsui Star Ferry Pier. It takes about 9 minutes of pure joy as you cruise.

TIP: Best time to ride the Star Ferry is early morning and late at night, avoiding the crowds while having the best uninterrupted view of the harbor. Enjoy!

Check out the schedule here!

Map and schedule sourced from here.

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Discover the Real Story Behind Cambodia's Heart of Darkness: Phnom Penh's #1 club

11:00:00 AM Pinoy Boy Journals 2 Comments

ALL-TIME FAVORITE POST FROM 2010 RE-BLOGGED:

If you happen to meet anyone in the world who's been to Cambodia's capital city and ask where to go at night, that person would most definitely talk about "Heart of Darkness". A night out to this joint will take you to Phnom Penh's darkest secret, no doubt.

Amidst its awful past, Phnom Penh is a throbbing, lively city where bars/clubs/pubs/even 24-hour brothels are constructed at the river side, lakeside and those secret little alleys such as Equinox, Sharky's, Howie's and Pitstop, just to name a few. But still, nothing compares to the city's arguably #1 clubbing destination... The Heart of Darkness!

The Crowd

Popular to locals and foreigners alike, this is the place to be for that awesome unforgettable Phnom Penh experience. "Although it's not really branded as a brothel or a strip joint, it seems like it."

On some days, it gets deserted where only a handful of gentlemen at the bar side drink their cold beers while listening to folk and western music. But if you happen to drop by when the real action is happening, you'll be astounded. It's recommended to check out Heart of Darkness at the strike of 12 where people usually get in. Don't worry, as far as i can remember, there's no curfew. Last time i was there, i left around 4AM.

Although the place is a guy territory, foreign women are not shooed away. I once asked some random foreign chick what she thinks of the place, and if she doesn't feel awkward that there's just so many local girls for hire. She said it's a good place to dance and get drunk. And nobody bothers her, anyway.

The History

Before i left for Cambodia, i was already looking up at good places to go to at night. And i read somewhere that one club actually closed down because one patron got shot. Apparently, little did i know, its this very same club.

If you look around Phnom Penh, it's a weird city because at a minute you'll see tuk tuk drivers, and another minute you could see Khmer men and women driving their Hummers or Lexus cars. There are a lot of rich people in Phnom Penh. And talks say that those who are driving are the sons/daughters of rich moguls.

TIP: If ever you catch them at "Heart of Darkness", stay away and leave them. If they say leave, do so! Just as long as they are not bothered, they won't bother you too. Keep in mind, those dudes are notorious in the city.

The Price

Beware, prices are for tourists so it's a little pricier than usual but still affordable. A big bottle of Chang or Heineken will cost you around $3. There's cocktails and shooters, but food served are not necessarily worth your money.

The Ambiance

There are pool tables to play 8 balls, couches where you can lounge in, a couple of tables to booze up and a good size dance floor where everyone's just getting crazy dancing and prancing. It can get smoky and lights are dimmed. The DJ's are okay, and their play list ranges from trance, house and cheesy pop tunes so get ready.

If you're wondering where it is located, i got their business card and scanned it so you guys can check it out!

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Smile Like There's No Tomorrow in Lake Balinsasayao, Negros Oriental, Philippines

10:30:00 AM Pinoy Boy Journals 33 Comments

ALL-TIME FAVORITE POST FROM 2011 RE-BLOGGED:

Rising above 1000 meters above sea level, hail to one of the gems of Oriental Negros' tourism. A major attraction in the region is the beautiful and awe inspiring 'Twin Lakes'. When you're going to Dumaguete, a day spent in Twin Lakes should be one of the best experiences you could ever have in this side of the world.The calmest and most serene place in the whole province was also my last destination, and i must say.. it couldn't get any better than this.

My guide was persistent that i have to pay a visit to Lake Balinsasayao because he really wanted me to see what this spot has to offer. 6 kilometers from Dumaguete City is the town of Sibulan, and 12 kilometers west of Sibulan + 20 minute scenic ride cruising along impeccable winding paths on high altitude, will get you to Balinsasayao Lake. On my way going there, i rode the motorbike yet again, and passed by such an amazing coastline. The trip was exciting because i got to pass by the national highway and see the beautiful view of the ocean and next door neighboring province, Cebu.

Lake Balinsasayao is a protected national park. Before disembarking, you will have to sign and pay a minimal fee of P10 issued by the Republic of the Philippines to enter. This fee goes to the rehabilitation and protection of the national park. Years have passed, and local hunters and "kaingeros" have continuously cut down timber. This illegal activity has resulted to an alarming rate fall of the water level in the lake. I think this issue needs to be resolved quick before this place turns into a barren basin.

Here i am finding my balance in a huge tree. (Please ID this tree if this is the Almagica "Almasiga" which is one of the tallest tree in the Philippines rising over 60 meters.)

Lake Balinsasayao is gaining popularity among adventure-seekers for its beautiful diversity of flora and fauna. From rare species of birds to beautiful and wild orchids, Lake Balinsasayao offers the richest and best ecosystem. Fishing is another popular activity here. Carp, catfish, tilapia are frequently swimming in this fresh water lake and most of the day-trippers would fish and cook their fresh catch. Likewise, you can just ask the local fishermen and buy from them. Native huts are built, where one can rent and enjoy the view of the beautiful lake while savoring a delicious feast.

If fishing is not your thing, you could rent a boat or a kayak. On the other hand, one can also enjoy the sight from the cliff by trekking to the other side of the ridge. Most people who go here have brought with them their packed meals. if you forgot to bring yours, don't worry because there's a canteen before the descent to the lake. If this was in Thailand, this place would be part of an adventure day tour - hence, a steady inflow of tourists. Let's help out the tourism industry here, shall we?!

By the way, for happy campers it's good to note that there are areas around the lake where you could pitch in your tent. I reckon it would be an awesome experience to camp out here, in the middle of the jungle and just commune with nature.

Be reminded that the water isn't shallow. A few steps from the bank, the water goes to a deep slope which others say descend up to 90 meters. But i couldn't fathom the thought of going to Lake Balinsasayao and not swimming. It's just not right! So, there i was braving the cold water and swimming, together with the little Negrense kids. What a beautiful experience!

Lake Balinsasayao is embraced by four mountains: Mount Mahungot to the south, Mount Kalbasan to the north, Mount Balinsasayao to the east and Mount Guidabon to the west. The air is cool here and the breeze of the wind makes it an ideal place to spend an afternoon. I just loved my stay here even if it was just a short while. Do you know that this portion of Sibulan is said to be the home of a remarkable number of species: 180 different kinds of trees, 113 birds, 27 mammals and 49 reptiles and amphibians, making it a national park?

If there's one thing i regret not doing, it is staying longer here in Lake Balinsasayao. It's so beautiful and calming that i forgot all my worries. All the apprehensions of what was waiting for me when i get back home, all gone and forgotten about. Meditation is a recommended activity here, and as advised - during sunrise and sunset are the best time to enjoy the 'Twin Lakes'. I always found myself weirdly smiling all the time here. It seems there are still places in the world, where one could just forget about the worries of tomorrow, and just smile, like there's no tomorrow.

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Save Up and Explore Japan's Most Fabulous District / Visit Roppongi in Tokyo, Japan

11:00:00 AM Pinoy Boy Journals 6 Comments

ALL-TIME FAVORITE POST FROM 2011 RE-BLOGGED:

Almost $4 billion in construction, Roppongi 六本木, lit. "six trees" is aptly called artelligent city located in Roppongi district in Minato, southern Tokyo. I passed by this area en route to Harajuku and was amazed by its luxurious feel. Towering the city area is the ever popular Minoru Mori Tower at 54 storeys. This megatron houses art museums, clinics, cafes, stores and offices of popular Ferrari Japan, Asahi TV, Chevron, Lenovo, and Google. Anime fans should be heading out here because The Pokemon Company holds its headquarters in this building.

If you want to be seen and hang out with the rich and famous, drop by Roppongi Keyazika Street and show off with your best look. Sample the best coffee in one of the many quiant coffee shops while people watching, Roppongi style! Ropponggi is also a big expat hang-out where dozens of embassies and international offices are located. Nightlife is also one of the city’s prime attraction offering friendly bars and clubs to foreign tourists and party animals. A tip during the day i visited, there was a big party at night. If only i knew the right people, that should be an awesome way to party in Roppongi.

One of the most interesting spots while in Roppongi is the giant spider in Roku Roku Plaza. This 10 meter bronze sculpture is called Maman. Crafted by French Artist Louise Bourgeois, if you look closely beneath the spider and look up, you will see intricate details in the body with eggs. One of the many architecture wonders in Ropponggi hills!

There's so much to explore around Roppongi district:

Tokyo City View Mori Tower, 52F. 03-6406-6652. 9:00 AM to midnight.

This viewing deck gives you a 360º view of the city from 250 meters above sea level. Don't buy an admission ticket, it is included in the Mori Art Museum ticket, which is the same price.

Mori Art Museum Mori Tower, 53F. 03-5777-8600. 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM, until 5:00 PM on Tues. [3] (http://www.mori.art.museum) This impressive art gallery hosts special exhibitions. Ticket prices vary, but students and tickets bought at 7-Eleven convenience stores and Pia ticket vendor receive a discount. The museum ticket includes admission to Tokyo City View.

Mori Urban Institute for the Future Mori Tower, 50F. 03-6406-6636. Mon to Thu 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM, until 10:00 PM Fri to Sun and holidays. [4] (http://www.tokyocityview.com).

Shopping and dining. In the first several floors of Mori Tower and the adjoining buildings, there are heaps of shopping spots, nearly all are upscale. Similarly, most of the restaurants have a lot of style, and with prices to match.

Virgin Toho Cinemas 03-5775-6090 [5] (http://www.tohocinemas.co.jp). If you are going to put down the going rate of nearly ¥1800 for a movie in Tokyo, this is the place to do it. The nine-screen cinema has futuristic decor, THX and reserved seating. This theatre is open all night, so you can catch a movie if you are staying out late and are planning to catch the morning train.

Roppongi can be reached by the Hibiya and Oedo Subway Lines (Roppongi Station) and the Nanboku Subway Line (Roppongi-Icchome Station).

From Tokyo Station:

15 minutes, 160 yen by Marunouchi and Hibiya Subway Lines via Kasumigaseki Station.

From Shinjuku Station:

10 minutes, 210 yen by direct Oedo Subway Line.

Additional information sourced from here, here and here

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A Very Special Message to a Beloved Province: Marinduque, Philippines

8:00:00 AM Pinoy Boy Journals 12 Comments

ALL-TIME FAVORITE POST FROM 2010 RE-BLOGGED:

I started my journey to the island province of Marinduque riding on top of a jeepney. I knew right there and then, this trip would be memorable. With no expectations at all, this particular place etched a favorable spot in my heart.

It is indeed the land of simple-living and gentle people -- where money is not a priority and friendships are indeed treasured, where everyone is welcome, amidst the close knit of families here. I could have been bored with the lack of modernity around, instead, i was continuously amazed by how so much simplicity made all the difference in me.

As i write this story (for the nth time), within the comforts of my room, i would surely want to exchange this for something back there. I would trade a cool, pampered life with laid back simple living.

Time is slow.

Time is well spent.

Time is treasured.

Time is kept.

Our daily worries become extinct in this province. The people here don't care about missed deadlines, they care about missed rains. I was chatting with a charming old lady one hot afternoon and that was what she said. As i look back, i realized that life isn't about complications. It's all about simple joys!

Amidst the never-ending talks of witchcraft here, i could vow to prove it otherwise. No, there are no "Aswangs" or "Manananggals" in this province.

We're all quick to judge.

Truth is, were judging ourselves.

On my last night in this province, i almost lost my way back to my shack. With only the full moon as the light, with dogs barking and unknown creatures lurking, imagine the fear and anxiety building upon me. A man suddenly appears and helped me find my way back home. With relatively no expectations of a reward, it dawned on me... I'm lucky to be here.

This province has changed me in so many ways.

-----

Living in the city is living worry-free. But i highly recommend you visit this magical province. It's one of the hidden gems of this country.

The nature, the wonders, the mysteries and the people...

Amidst the missed ferries and broken relationships, God has paved a way for me to discover this place.

With its beauty and splendor...

What a pleasure it was, i know i will never forget, for the rest of my life.

Marinduque, you are special!

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Getting Loco Over Kaiten-Zushi / Food Trippin' in One of Fukuoka's Biggest Conveyor Belt Sushi Bars

1:57:00 PM Pinoy Boy Journals 16 Comments

ALL-TIME FAVORITE POST FROM 2011 RE-BLOGGED:

I saw too many revolving sushi bars in Kyoto and Osaka, so when i was in Fukuoka, couldn't pass another day not going to one. I've been so fascinated how it is to eat in a sushi bar like this. A Conveyor Belt Sushi Bar 回転寿司 kaiten-zushi is the fast food of sushi. I've seen too many cheeky music videos set up in a sushi bar in Japan but this time, I'm making things happen and enjoying a lunch date with my host family. So, just imagine my delight once i stepped inside one of Fukuoka's biggest Kaiten-zushi! It's amazing how packed it is during lunch time. Groups of friends and family ordering like there's no tomorrow. It's quite affordable and they serve fresh and tasty Sushi, Sashimi and other short orders. An experience like no other, i must say!

When we got there, the place was packed with so many people. We had to fall in line for a bit because all tables were taken already. Remember that in order to find a place that serves the freshest sushi, the place has to be busy. If there's no one there, head to the next sushi bar. This means new sushi and sashimi are served every few minutes. When I got to the table, i was clueless how everything works. So, my good friend taught me how it works around here which i am about to share with you now.

5 Steps to ordering your Sushi in a Revolving Sushi Bar

1. Pick a number and fall in line. Wait for your number to flash on the screen. The attendant will then lead you to your table.

2. You can now order for your drinks: fruits and other desserts, beers, colas and water are available. There's a complimentary tea available, too. Things move fast here, you'll get your drinks in no time.

2. Condiments like soy sauce, fresh pickles, and chopsticks are available on every table so no need to ask for one.

3. Pick any type of sushi you fancy. Plates of Sushi and Sashimi pass through your table or counter seat. Grab a plate and enjoy. Try out everything!

4. For special orders, you can press a button to ask for the attendant. He/she will be glad to assist you with your needs if your order is available. For small orders, the chef will place a signage with your table number on it.

5. Press the button again when you're done eating. The waiter will count the number of plates in your table to know your bill. Prices are great value for your money. This restaurant in particular serves 100 Yen per plate which is around P50 or $1. Not bad at all.

Crab sticks with mayonnaise

Flying fish eggs / Fish Roe or Tobiko

Salmon with cream cheese

This is one of my happiest meals ever. I wanted to try everything but i was stuffed already. Okay, call me chicken but i didn't try the Unagi. It's suppose to be the most popular dish in the Kyushu region, apart from the Ramen noodles. The thought of giggling/moving eel was enough to make me say no. I mean, i don't eat pork so Unagi was a given. I am not really that adventurous when it comes to food.

I've tried out almost everything including Maguro, Kanburi, Tamago, Aburi Engawa, Shrimp and Pumpkin Tempura, Hirame and of course, Maki. With so many sushi and sashimi plates cleared, it's hard for me to choose my personal favorite but i have to say it's the salmon with cream cheese. I think i had four plates of that which means i had eight. This conveyor belt sushi bar is a good place to go to for foreigners because you don't have to go through ordering sushi per sushi and then asking what's in it to a non-speaking waiter. Highly affordable and the food was excellent! For food connoisseurs, going to a conveyor belt sushi bar is an excellent way to sample the best of Japan's most popular dish!

Watch out for more Sushi and Sashimi stories in my Tokyo post! Kampai!!!

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Travel Diary: Capiz is Definitely Visayas' Hidden Gem in the Philippines

9:30:00 AM Pinoy Boy Journals 4 Comments

STORY: It has been quite a long time since i last traveled around Visayas. Booking a cheap flight for only P700 months ago, i was off to Capiz - Province #62. Capiz is actually the last province of Visayas for me to visit.

To tell you honestly, my intent to visit Capiz is merely because of my love for seafood, and since this province is called the seafood capital of the country, then it would be a delight to finally visit Capiz. It has been years that i wanted to visit but i always tend to put it in the back of my priority list, for the more popular neighboring provinces.

I arrived at Roxas City Domestic Airport around noon on a Saturday, together with about a hundred locals eager and excited to visit their family. I was there, with no relative or friend, but i was confident that Capiz won't fail me. Of course, i was right.

It didn't take long for me to arrive and found myself checked in at Bahia De Norte Beach Hotel. With an inspiring view of the sea, the room proved to be actually good value for money. Sure, there are newer hotels found within the city but since Capiz, and in Roxas City, it is blessed with a beautiful coast line, you would definitely choose water over busy roads.

A few meters away is the Seafood Boulevard were lunch is definitely on top of my mind. Ordering a generous serving of crabs, seashell clam soup and my all-time favorite - scallops, then, it was time to familiarize myself with the city so i hired a tricycle to take me to the cathedral.

Of course, the church always seems to be the point of reference in small provinces in the Philippines. The Immaculate Conception Cathedral is huge and beautiful. So sad though that there's funeral service for a middle aged man. I wondered how he died? Nearby the cathedral is the capitol building, and the historical bridge. Walking around Roxas City is a sight to behold, with crumbling old structures and quiet simple alleyways. The fresh produce sold at the market is just so tempting to buy. And all of a sudden, prices of stuff seem to be a lot cheaper here than in Kalibo or Cebu. It's so easy to navigate Roxas City because everything seems to be too easy to reach. Glenn is this tricycle driver i met in front of the market. He ended up being my driver and guide for days that i traveled around Capiz.

I then went to Sta Monica Church to visit the ruins and climb up to the tower to check out the biggest bell in Asia. The guide is very knowledgeable and spending some time on top was a welcome break from the heat of mid morning. Around the church is a tourism shop where after a week, they finally got to sell stuff because of me. It makes you think how much you're spending back home, and how much people are earning in Capiz.

Going back to Baybay is always something to look forward to because the breeze from the sea, and the tranquil waters are such a relaxing sight to see. And when you live in Manila, places like these seem to be so unforgettable. Later that night, i was off to find a place to drink. Happy hour at the beach hotel lead me to drink about five bottles already. After hitting the shower, drinking continues at Kainan near the roundabout where each stall has an LCD TV where one can sing his hearts out while drinking beer. Gold Eagle seems to be very popular in Capiz, and has quite a following. Quite surprising, since i haven't encountered any bar or restaurant serving the timely beer here in Manila. There, i met friendly chaps like Jhong and Ryan. Jhong is about 18 years old and six feet 2 inches tall. He works at the bar and has been drinking the mix he served for himself and his boss. He loves local OPM bands and we're almost singing the same songs. Ryan works at Robinsons Mall and is earning P278 per day manning the rice department at the supermarket. Good thing he's only paying P500 per month on his room. He's been singing too many heartbreaking songs that's why i asked him if he has a problem. His wife doesn't text him anymore because he can't send home money. Much later, we were already singing Knife and Huwag ka lang Mawawala. Imagine that. Knowing stories like these proved to be the real essence of traveling for me.

The next day, i woke up late as expected. And everyone seems to wake up early in Baybay. That's why waking up at 10AM means i am the sleepy head of the bunch. Breakfast served in front of the beach made me want to enjoy the water even more. I called up Glenn and asked if he could accompany me to Olotayan Island. Paying about P1000 for a boatman nearby, i was off to the island with a huge bottle of Emperador and Coca Cola. The trip started out quite nicely. Although the last few minutes of the boat ride was wild. I was a bit worried about my bag, but never about myself. If you see the boatman relaxing, then there's no problem. However, if you see him sweating and trying to change his shirt other way around, you're in big trouble. Later that day, Olotayan proved to be a magical place. Totally isolated and with no soul in sight except for Glenn and the boatman, this is what my dream is made off. The beach area is made up of sand coursed through crushed corals. The water is clean but swimming is advised at your own risk because a few meters to the water, and it'll be deep already. Half way the bottle, the rain started to kick in. I am not talking about normal rain but thunderstorms and heavy downpour. I asked the boatman if it was okay to leave, and he said maybe it's best to wait a while. I took it as a sign to finish the bottle with my new found friends as the rain continued. Every now and then, i would take a dip at the warm water. But always manage to come back for yet another shot. About an hour or two later, And the dark clouds continue going to the east which means skies are beginning to clear up where were heading. It was unbelievable that the water was way more calm leaving Olotayan than going there.

I arrived with friendly smiles from kids waiting for their parents who went out fishing. This feeling made me realize how fortunate i am to be able to travel around Capiz even in a short while. After docking, i went to Lipunan Market to buy fresh seafood that would be a dinner i will be sharing with Glenn and the boatman's family.

It was a lovely feeling as the locals have been nothing but super nice to me. And welcoming a stranger like me felt good knowing the people of Capiz are extremely hospitable people. While watching a prime time singing search on TV as i enjoy my Adobong Pusit and Steamed Crab and Prawns. The kids by the beach are friendly, too, and never fail to crack a joke and make me laugh.

The next day, after buying dried fish at Banica, i went back home. The airport is nice although construction is still ongoing. I waved goodbye at Glenn and told him i will come back for sure. I may have spent quite a fortune in Capiz as compared to my trips around Visayas but i never regretted anything. As i travel around this province, i have been able to extend my help to locals who earn very little. I did not only enjoy my trip to Capiz, i also became an instrument of God by sharing my blessing to other people. It's through these instances that i feel i am pursuing my passion and being a fellow to Filipinos. I love Capiz!

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Hong Dae (Hongik University) in Seoul, South Korea's Got Style and Swag

12:00:00 PM Pinoy Boy Journals 0 Comments

If there's one place in Seoul that really kicks ass in the awesome department, it would be Hong Dae. I mean, South Korea is surprisingly a developed nation with such a fascination for anything trendy and cool, but Hong Dae's really got the style and swag that i really like.

For one, music is relevant everywhere but in Hong Dae, it's in the streets that budding musicians perform. Spending a cool afternoon hanging around makes one think that talent does come in cool packages.

They say, comedy is not for every body. In Hong Dae, it's for everyone. Whether the act was funny or not, that's not the point. This man was worth my five minute stop over. He almost grabbed me to join him. Too bad, i was shy. I guess, i wasn't ready for this.

The act continued, this time, his antic drew more crowd including this man who started out as an onlooker, ended up to be his partner.

He wanted to catch him, but couldn't. I wanted to laugh, but i couldn't.

I appreciate the effort though.

Moving on to fashion, Hong Dae is thriving with artists and designers eager to show off their latest merchandise. I bought a couple of stuff that i don't need. And up until now, i haven't used them. But whatever, it serves as a reminder that not all you use are precious. Knowing you bough them from a certain place is more than enough bargain.

The hippie culture transcends regardless of race and religion. Boxes upon boxes of trinkets and accessories are lined up and carefully curated to make hunting for cool stuff such an enjoyable afternoon delight.

And then, there's the women. All dressed up to impress and make sure they sport the latest.

Who says holding hands in public is cliche? In Hong Dae, it actually looks cool.

In Hong Dae, posing for the camera need not be staged. Sometimes, taking a photo of someone posing for a shot for another one taking a photo is weird but exciting.

And ironically, posing the usual kawaii pose seems more palatable here in Hong Dae...

Or standing on a pedestrian while holding a fancy umbrella just because Hong Dae in August is hot, humid but rainy.

Or simply just killing time because Saturdays in Hong Dae mean university kids have the day to do absolutely nothing. Perfect timing for me!

And spotting a celebrity... Of course, she's not who i think she was.

Hong Dae's got style and swag because there are so many things we cringe seeing in other parts of Asia, but find it amusing to see here. Women are dressed nicely, comedy is not funny but amusing, bargain shopping is engaging, and men got the most beautiful girls holding their hands. Of course, everything's nice except the weather. Don't go to Hong Dae in August. I mean it.