Malaysia Tour Packages

Malaysia is a favorite destination of vacationers all year round. Here are some packages which can make your vacation hassle free especially when you're travelling with your children.

Airline ticket online check-in service

Online check-in for your flight saves you plenty of waiting-in-line time . Almost all airlines now has incorporated this service on their website and is very easy to use. Just google your airline's website and look for the online check-in tab .

Please bear in mind that online check-in can only be done 6 hours up to 24 hours before flight time .

Checking online allows the traveler to print his/her boarding pass , choose/change/confirm seat assignment , input advance passenger details (such as passport and visa details).

What you'll need to check-in online? Basically, your e-ticket and passport.
Be ready for the following info:
          * E-ticket number

          * Flight Number

          * Record Locator / booking reference number

          * Frequent flyer no.

          * Pasport details and/or visa info

When you're done , print the boarding pass and voila! you're good to go.


I've attached a sample here. . . feel free to download it.

Sample of Home Printed Airline Boarding Pass


Check-in online now.


Some airlines which has this feature:

Cathay Pacific

Korean Air

Continental Airlines

British Airways

China Air

Air Asia

Delta Air


Read online check-in policies.

DSWD travel clearance for minor. . . parenting 101

Airline Tickets are now so cheap that it encourages more Filipinos to travel outside the country. International fares going to Bangkok, Hongkong, China, Malaysia or Singapore are sometimes cheaper than domestic tickets.

But people oftentimes forget (or they don't know) , that when a minor (18yo below) is not traveling with either parent a DSWD certificate is a must.

I've listed the requirements in obtaining DSWD travel clearance for minors:
1. Duly accomplish form  

2. Photocopy of the birth certificate or passport of the minor

3. A written consent from both parents or solo parent or legal guardian permitting the child to travel alone or with someone else to a foreign country.

4.  Passport of the travel companion (for accompanied minors).

5. 2 colored passport size of the minor in the last 6 months.

As appropriate:
1. A photocopy of the marriage certificate of the parents of minor.
2. A photocopy of legal guardianship of the minor or
3. A photocopy of the solo parent identification card from the municipal social worker and development office.
4. In case of an illigitimate minor, a certificate of no marriage at the local civil registrar.
5. In the case of deceased parent; a photocopy of the death certificate.
















DSWD issued travel clearance id valid for 1 year or 2 years (depends on what you apply for) provided the conditions under which the travel clearance was issued have not changed.

NSO application

It's fairly easy to get an NSO birth certificate, marriage certificate, death certificate etc. Just go to any NSO office , fill out the application form, pay the fees and if they have a record of what you are requesting for it will be released on the same day. Though, you may have to go back on another day for the release of certain documents such as CENOMAR (certificate of no marriage).

Online application is available through e-census or call center and have it delivered to your home. Pay through their bank partners or by credit card. Delivery may take 4-5 working days

What if it turns out you don't have a birth certificate record at the NSO?

Then you must proceed to the Local Civil Registry of the municipality where you were born and apply for Late Registration of Birth

This process may take at least 3 weeks to process before the LCR (local civil registry) will be able to submit your birth certificate to NSO office for filing.

Practical Tips...E-passport

 This day i had a long conversation with a guardian of an eight year old who was totally clueless on how to renew their passport under the new DFA appointment system.

With the new system, the DFA hopes to bring to Filipinos world class passport and consular services. In effect, no more queues and no more waiting under the sun.

For renewal, new and lost passports there are 3 ways to apply. One may call DFA Appointment Hotline 737-1000 and a customer service will set an appointment for you. Second, you may log on to their website and fill in all information details of the applicant. And lastly, for the most convenient way, just go to any reputable travel agency and let them do the work.

Tip: Don't bother going to DFA without an appointment letter because they would not simply entertain you. You MUST obtain first an appointment!

Appointment date is dependent on what slot is open. You may choose the nearest available open date.

On the appointed date make sure you have brought all necessary requirements for your application. Failing to do so , may take you back to stage one of the application process.

DFA also warns that no chaperone are allowed inside the building. If you must bring one, tell your companion to wait outside or go to MOA instead (near ASEANA).

It is advised that you arrive 30 mins before your appointed time. Early / Late comers will not be entertained .

Present all documents at the Appointment Counter and get your queue number. Pay necessary fees at the window and proceed to 2nd floor for data capturing. No need to bring any passport ID.

 After you're done just wait for your passport to be delivered right at your doorstep. But you have to pay an extra P 120 for delivery. Small price to pay if you live far away from DFA building.

 DFA new address: cor of Bradco and Macapagal Avenues in ASEANA Business Park (near Mall of Asia)

  

If you may need help or questions regarding your passport application , feel free to leave your comments here. I am no expert but i may help you in one way or another get through all your questions.

Shopping in Bangkok

Aside from visiting the temples, riding on a motorized boat in Chao Phraya River, getting an elephant ride, watching in awe the lady boys, the most touristy thing to do in Bangkok is SHOP, SHOP, SHOP.

And for a convenient marathon shopping , one must situate themselves near the shopping area. Practicality wise you should get a hotel near Pratunam Shopping Area.

Pratunam (aside from Chatuchak Weekend Market) is where to get the cheapest clothes and it is open 24 hours a day.

Hotels in Pratunam Area are (accdg to popularity):

1. First House- 2*
2. Baiyoke Boutique - 2*
3. Baiyoke Suite - 3*
4. Baiyoke Sky - 4*
5. Amari Watergate - 5*
6. Indra Regent - 3*
7. Ramada D'Ma Bangkok - 3*
8. Grand Diamond Suites Hotel - 3.5*
9. Dreamtown Hotel - 2*
10. Bangkok City Inn - 2*
11. Citin Pratunam Hotel - 2*
12. Budacco - 3*

For reservations and bookings please contact us at 7747876.

For Bangkok Tour Packages and Airfare email us too at viajeroyale@gmail.com

Destination: Malaysia

MERDEKA!

This country was once a British Colony but obtained their independence on August 30, 1957. Its name was once Malaya , shortly after regaining its independence it was named Malaysia.

Popular Destinations in Malaysia are:

Historic Malacca was inscribed on the World Heritage List on July 7 2008. If you want to see Malaysia historic culture on a clearer picture , visit Malacca.

The Food Capital of Malaysia ; Penang is one of the most popular tourist destination in Malaysia because of the great tasting food that are cheap and being sold on the streets. In fact, food lovers all over the world recognises Penang as having the Best Street Food in Asia (read the article in TIME magazine 2004).

When you love to shop you also love cheap frills, bargain, discount, duty free (no tax). This is what the Island of Langkawi is known for. The island is lined with duty free shops where you can buy chocolates, wines and spirits, cigarettes, clothes. Don't bother bringing luggages because here its cheap.

Langkawi is also known as a Honeymooner's Paradise with its fine white beaches and romantic setting. Here you may find Langakawi Cable Car.

For family entertainment , kids (and parents) will surely love Sunway Lagoon . Just 30mins away from KL city , this amusement theme park features rides in both the water park and its adjacent dry park.

Also in KL city one should not miss Petronas Twin Towers and KL Tower. It think it is best viewed at night when all its lights illuminating the massive structure.

Genting Highlands on the other hand home to the famous Genting Highlands Resort or otherwise known as Resort World Genting which can be reached from Kuala Lumpur by car in 1 hour. It can also be reached by a cable car called Genting Skyway.

These are just few of the destinations in Malaysia.

From Manila flights going to Kuala Lumpur are available via Cebu Pacific, Malaysian Airlines, Singapore Airlines (connect in Singapore), Air Asia (depart in Clark).

Domestic destinations in Malaysia via Air Asia or Malaysian Air.

There are 2 airports (domestic/int'l) in Kuala Lumpur. The KLIA and KLCCT. Most budget airlines uses KLCCT terminal. Remember that these airports are outside KL city center and travel time is 45 mins to 1 hour depending on the traffic.

Public transportation such as bus and taxis are available for short and long distances travel.

WARNING: Do not to accept offers from touts in the arrival foyer because they usually charge more than Airport Limo taxis. Even if you are shown what seems to be legitimate price lists. These touts are usually drive private vehicles not meant to ferry passengers and the drivers do not have PSV (public service vehicle) licenses to take passengers. You will also not be covered by insurance if an accident happens.

UNIVERSAL STUDIOS SINGAPORE

Now you don't have to go to the U.S. to witness our favorite movie characters in action. This is one theme park that both adults and kids would surely love.

Universal Studios Singapore Theme Park Guide:

1. The Lost World

Divided into two themed areas: Jurassic Park™ and WaterWorld™, this zone is for fans of the two blockbuster movies, as they can experience a dense tropical forest where dinosaurs lurk, then watch death defying stunts filled with thrills and spills!

Rides and Shows:

  a. Waterworld
  b. Jurassic Park Rapids Adventure
  c. Canopy Flyer
  d. Amber Rock Climb

2. Far Far Away

Movie stars, talking donkeys.…the land of Far Far Away showcases lifestyles of the rich and fairy taled. See how successful fantasy characters live within tall, graceful walls sweeping over a pavilion-covered courtyard.

Rides and Shows

  a. Shrek 4-D Adventure
  b. Donkey Live
  c. Enchanted Airways
  d. Magic Potion Spin


3. New York

Feel the spirit and energy of America’s biggest and grandest city as you stroll along the sidewalks and enjoy all the classic landmarks. Soak in the impressive city skylines, neon lights, and facades that set the scenes for big city fun and real-time movie production.

Rides and Shows

   a. Lights, Camera Action (hosted by Steven Spielberg)
   b. Stage 28 (Coming soon)


4. Sci-Fi City

The city of the future has arrived. Through the impressive portals of Sci-Fi City you will experience the ultimate intergalactic battle of good vs. evil and visit a vibrant metropolis with all the ultimate modern conveniences.

Rides and Shows

   a. Battlestar Galactica : HUMAN and CYLON

   b. Accelerator

5. Hollywood

Step onto Hollywood Boulevard framed by dynamic architecture, palm trees and the famous Walk of Fame, you will feel as if you have landed in the center of the entertainment universe.

Rides and Shows

   a. Pantages Hollywood Theater


6. Madagascar


Based on the hit DreamWorks Animation film, Madagascar, this zone brings you to a dense tropical jungle, filled with strange and wonderful animals like lemurs and foosas. Bird calls and monkey screeches fill the air as you journey deeper into the equatorial rain forests of this African Island.

Rides and Shows

   a. Madagascar: A Crate Adventure
   b. King Julien's Beach Party - Go-Round


7. Ancient Egypt

Ancient pyramids and obelisks stand fast against the sands of time as you are transported to 1930’s Egypt, the Golden Age of Egyptian Exploration. Travel to an era when entire Pharaohs tombs were discovered- and their terrible curses unleashed

Rides and Shows

   a. Revenge of the Mummy
   b. Treasure Hunters




Go to the official website of Universal Studios Singapore for promotional events and complete details of attractions.


Be reminded that the rates for WEEKEND is different from WEEKDAY visit.


And book early because the park can be fully booked specially during weekend.

Hongkong Package Deals

I love Hongkong, YOU love Hongkong, WE all love Hongkong. We just can't get enough of this bustling city. There is everything and anything for everyone.

But for those 1st time traveller to Hongkong they prefer to get these type of packages for a hassle free vacation.

For inquiries pls call 774-78-76 or email : viajeroyale@gmail.com / viaje_royale@yahoo.com.ph

Dine and wine in Puerto Princesa City

Here's a simple guide to where to eat and drink in Puerto Princesa city:

1. Kalui Restaurant - www.kaluirestaurant.com . Best to reserve before going there for it can be full at times.
                                  Rizal Avenue / (048) 433-4840
2. Kinabuchs Restaurant - 348 Rizal Avenue / (048) 434-5194

3. Balinsasayao Restaurant - Rizal Ave.

4. Jo's Inato - in front of the Cathedral

5. Haim Chicken Inato- Manalo Extension (048) 433-2261

6. Lotus Garden - near the airport, Asian Fine dining

7. Badjao Seafood Restaurant - Brgy. Bagong Sikat / (048) 433-9912

8. Tiki Bar and Restaurant - junction 1

We wanted to try TAMILOK or woodworm at Kinabuchs but unfortunately they don't have delivery from the locals that day. So after dinner at Kinabuchs we ended up going to Tiki Restobar for few bottles of beer. The interior is nice and it has a polynesian interior look . Quite out of the ordinary from the restaurants i've been to in Puerto Princesa.

The band in TIKI bar is singing reggae and everybody was having a great time.

I guess it was our lucky night because a waitress informed us that they have TAMILOK that day. Ordered it immediately. I was brave enough to eat one piece. I'm so proud of my self.

Now i can say i've conquered Palawan LOL !

Honda Bay Palawan Island Hopping

Woke up at 530am to prepare for our Honda Bay tour. I'm a little excited about this because i'm an addict to snorkeling .

Honda Bay Island Hopping is one activity in Puerto Princesa which is not to be missed. You must include it in your itinerary.

For a hassle free tour , you may get a tour package from any travel agency or you have an option to DIY (do it yourself).My suggestion is best to leave everything to the experts.

Standard Rate for Honda Bay tour - P 1,100/person inclusive of lunch, boat hire, services of a tour guide, 2way transfers hotel-honda bay wharf v.v.

Should you be on a tight budget and opt to do-it-yourself  , here are some tips:

1. Tricycles are willing to transfer you to/from Honda Bay Wharf if the price is right. Normal rate is P 400-500 per tricycle. A tricycle can carry 3-4 passengers. But remember that the Honda Bay wharf is 20-30 minutes away from the city and believe me it's not a very comfortable ride.

2. Van hire - P 1,500/van 2way transfer pick-up/drop-off from hotel. Good for 10-12 pax.

3. Best to buy your fresh fish,seafoods, rice at the wet market before proceeding to the wharf. No need to bring utensils because the locals in Pandan Island or Snake Island can provide it for a fee. There are small retail stores in Pandan and Sanke island which sells softdrinks, bread (for fish feeding), etc.

4. Bring sunblock (lots of it), shades, sarong or anything to protect you from the smoldering heat of the sun. DO NOT forget to bring your camera. Waterproof camera cases are for rent at the HOBBAI booth for P 150 each.

5. Bring your own snorkel gear (for hygienic purposes) or you may rent one for P 100.

6. Best time to go is 7am-8am ahead of the tourist pack. Less crowd at the beach and more islands you can cover.

7. Register first at the HOBBAI (Honda Bay Boatowners Association Inc) Booth. Then pay your boat hire there too.

We were assigned to a boat named Angel of the Sea. . .

First stop was Pandan Island. . .

 Most of these islands have rightful owners. That is why they have set an entrance fee everytime you go to their island. Here are the lists of the islands and their corresponding entrances:

Our second stop was Snake Island. . .

We took our lunch here in Snake Island. Cottage hire is P 50/cottage. Locals cooked our lunch for P 100.
We paid also for the coals used in broiling our seafoods P 25. Buko juice costs P 25 each.

As you can see from the above picture, the locals are busy preparing lunch for the tourists.

And here's the finished product. . . Our glorious lunch!!!!

After our lunch we headed off again for non stop snorkeling. This time the fishes are bigger and brighter. Oh i really love our waters. I hope all tourists heeds the calling of our government to keep our environment clean so that  our children may enjoy and experience the beauty of our country.

Starfish Island was our next stop after lunch. This island according to the caretaker was bought by Dos Palmas already.

We saw a pack of Korean Tourists eating lunch at the LULI Island (Lulubog-Lilitaw). There's a P 50 entrance so we decided to skip but was able to take pictures of it. It was high tide that time.

We had a great time touring Honda Bay. We will surely come back to visit Dos Palamas and other islands we were not able to set foot to.

Puerto Princesa nightlife coming up.

Vietnamese Village Puerto Princesa City Palawan

On our way to Vietnamese Village (located near the Sta Lourdes Wharf), these group of schoolkids caught our attention. This is School Service Palawan style. There must have been 20 kids or more riding the tricycle and they are more than willing to pose in front of the camera.

Twenty minutes away from the city you will find the Vietnamese village. Many years it has been home to Vietnamese asylum seekers but most of them are now relocated in the United States and only 5 people remained in the village.

There is a souvenir shop and a restaurant where they serve authentic vietnamese dishes.

And we ordered these. . .

Lapu-Lapu with black bean sauce and vermicelli (P 750/fish). Priced according to fish weight per gram. Fish was huge for 3 people sharing.! We ordered 4 plates of rice for this LOL!!

We wanted to try their shrimp spring rolls but it was quite dry. And beef pho bo (soup with flat noodles and beef). The pho bo was bland looking with its white noodles but very tasty and full of flavors on the contrary.

We did not forget to order their french bread (with tuna spread). Absolutely delicious ! (P 60/bread). You can order it plain .

As we are in the middle of our meal , the aroma of the vietnamese coffee brewing permeated the room. Can't help but order it too. (P 75/glass)

Our total damage : P 1,363 - shared by 3 people. The total bill being so because of the Steamed Lapu-Lapu otherwise we could have just paid P 500 - 600. But we're totally satiated. Had to adjust our waistbelts.

After our hearty meal we decided to try Kim's Hot Springs just walking distance to Vietville Restaurant.

Kim's Hot Spring and Restaurant is frequented by Korean tourists in Palawan. They have private pool with hot spring water being pumped into it. The hot spring water is actually not flowing like in Ardent hot spring Camiguin but instead enclosed in a pool. According to the attendants, koreans like it that way.

Their private pool rate is P 400 /pool for every 4 hours. They have bigger pool which can accomodate 16 people. Be sure to bring your towels and change of clothes. They are open till 10pm. They also have a restaurant should you go hungry .

Next day we are scheduled for Honda (Hunda - right way of pronouncing it according to locals) Bay. We're excited to snorkel.

Follow our Honda Bay adventure here. . .