Guide in applying for a Japan Tourist Visa (for Filipinos)

With the advent of low cost carriers offer of  cheap airfares to Japan  (hello Ceb Pac Piso Fare and Jetstar Friday Frenzy) comes the surge of Filipinos wanting to travel to the Land of the Rising Sun. But hold on to your credit card and do not buy that ticket just yet (eventhough it's super cheap and irresistible). We Filipinos need a tourist visa (like you don't know?). 

So without further ado, here are the simple steps in getting one :

The official website of the Embassy of Japan in Manila is a gold mine of information . Everything you need to know can be found under the Visa Section Information. Read thoroughly on which visa to apply and its corresponding requirements .

And if you feel that there is an overload of information on the japan embassy website then just continue on reading here so i can spoonfeed you (hahaha)

For tourists , requirements are :

1. Original Passport - must be at least 6 months valid at the time of departure from Japan and must have at least 2 blank pages .

2. Visa Application - duly filled up  (you may download it here) - must be printed in A4size paper

3. One recent 2X2 photograph  (white background)

4. NSO Birth Certificate (must be valid within 1 year) 

5. NSO Marriage Certificate (if applicable)

6. Day to Day Itinerary or Schedule of Stay

7. For Employees - Certificate of Employment , Leave of Absence, ITR

8. For Business owners - Business permits , DTI , SEC , ITR

9. Bank Certificate

Where to submit your application ?
The Japan Embassy does not accept walk in applicants . They have a List of Accredited Travel Agencies wherein you can submit your application. Or you may visit your favored Travel Agent and they can also submit your application for you for a nominal fee.

If you are filing as a group or family you may assign a person (must be part of the travelling group/family) to submit the application in behalf of the group/family. Just make sure everything is in order and complete because your representative cannot answer for you if you have missing forms/requirements.

The visa fee is "gratis" but the travel agencies collect a handling or service charge . 

Processing time
It normally takes 3 to 5 working days to process your visa. If you receive a call from the agency it's either you lack some documents and you need to furnish them asap or your passport is ready for pickup.

Good luck and enjoy your ramenlicious visit to Japan! :)

How i applied for a Schengen Visa through Czech Republic Embassy in Manila

Ahhh....Europe... Everybody's travel bucket list. But getting there is half the fun. Amidst the planning and saving for the trip , one thing we dread most is applying for the most coveted entry visa.

I applied through Czech Republic Embassy in Manila because i will be staying the longest days in Prague. My itinerary is 5 days in Prague  Czezh Rep , 3 days in Paris France and 4 days in Rome Italy and so i had to apply through the Czech Rep Embassy.

Since this is my first schengen visa application , i  browsed the internet in search of blogs that would help me with my agenda. I only found a few who shared their experiences during their application process through Czech Rep embassy. I was worried that this embassy is notorious in denying visas.

Preparing the requirements
Anyway, i proceeded to preparing the required documents. Based on the official website of the embassy here are the requirements for Tourist visa application.
1. Duly filled out application form  (pls download it through the link)
2. Valid Passport - should at least be 6 months valid at the start of your travel date
3. One passport sized photo - must be recent
4. Hotel accomodation confirmation
5. Proof of financial means - Bank Certificate and Bank Statements (3months)
Note :The Official Bank Certificate must include a paragraph containing waiver of rights to release information to the Embassyof the Czech Republic - Visa Section. If this is not possible, a separate authorization letter addressed to the bank concerned must be produced, signed by the accountholder and acknowledged by the bank representative (whether by signature or by stamp), a copy of which must be submitted to the Embassy at the time of application.
6. Flight Reservation
7. Travel Medical Insurance
8. For Employees - COE and Leave of Absence
9. For Business owners - Business permits/DTI/SEC
10. For students - Certificate of Enrollment
11. For minors - Affidavit of Support , Copy of parent's passport, NSO BC, DSWD clearance (if not travelling with parents)

Hotel accomodation confirmation , Flight Reservation , Travel medical insurance can be obtained thru your trusted travel agency for a nominal fee.

Once i am pretty sure that i have completed everything , i need to set an appointment .

Appointment Setting 
After preparing all the requirements , i needed to set an appointment with the embassy to submit my documents. You cannot just walk in and announce to them your visa application. Appointment setting is done through VISAPOINT.  (https://visapoint.eu/disclaimer)

Visa lodging days are Tuesday , Wedneday and Thursday ONLY at 0900am to 1200pm. Personal appearance is required for biometrics and a thorough interview.

On the day of my appointment 
My appointment was at 0900am and i was there 1 hour before the set time. I was specially early because i meant to avoid the traffic. It is better to be early than miss my chance to be interviewed. The guard at the 30th floor of the Rufino Tower where the embassy office was located informed me to go to the canteen first and come back when the embassy open. Their office is quite small and there are no lounging areas.

I came back after 1 hour and i was ushered into the office where other visa applicants are waiting. I was 3rd to be interviewed. We were asked to sit in the waiting area before our turn comes for the interview. I can hear the exchange of questions and answers between the visa officer and the applicant since the room is quite small.

When my turn came , i went into the room and one male visa officer (Czech national) and one female assistant (Filipina) was standing in front of me. I greeted them good morning and I immediately handed them my documents. Then they proceeded with the biometrics (fingerprinting/photo/signature). After which then came the questions.

Here are some of the questions asked (as i recall)
1. What are you going to do in Prague ?  Ans : For tourism / vacation
2. How long are you going to stay in Prague ? Ans : 5 days
3. Do you work ? What do you do ? Ans : told them my line of job and business i have
4. How many siblings do you have ? What kind of job do they have ?  Ans : narrated my siblings work
5. Which countries have you been to ? Ans : told them the list of countries ive visited already

Male visa officer was a good natured guy but his Filipina assistant is quite cynical. Or maybe she was just like that to scare people off. Maybe its a strategy of embassy staff to be hostile to test if you are telling them the truth.

Be honest with your answers. These people are trained and they can tell if you are lying through your teeth. And if they feel you are not telling the truth it may cost you your application. Remember that the visa fee is non refundable.

Visa Processing time 
My interview was on a Tuesday and they told me to call them Monday (the following week) to follow up if my passport is ready for pickup the next day (tuesday). They normally give a decision within 5 working days after the interview/submission. Wow ! only 5 working days! Unlike other embassies which normally takes at least 15 working days to release your passport.

In other individual cases , it may take up to 30 to 60 working days . But mine was released after 5 working days.

You may also authorize other person to pickup your passport. Pickup days are Tuesdays , Wednesday, and Thursday at 1200nn to 100pm only.

I hope this will somehow help you with your Schengen Tourist Visa application.
Please comment below if you have questions. I would be glad to help you in any way i can. :)

How to apply for a Schengen Visa ?

Applying for a travel visa is something we Filipinos have to endure. Preparing the documents , submission , the interview and the waiting game that comes along with the process brings stress and dilemma to each and every traveller . No pain , no gain as the old adage says. I , for one went through it. 

The application process may slightly differ depending on which embassy you are intending to apply to but the required documents are almost the same. I also have read that there are embassies that has a higher visa approval rate compared to others. 

The advantage of getting a schengen visa is that  one visa gives you freedom to travel to 26 different EU nations. Below are the list of EU nations under the Schengen Agreement.

Austria                                                      Portugal

Belgium                                                    Slovakia

Czech Republic                                        Slovenia

Denmark                                                  Spain

Estonia                                                     Sweden

Finland                                                     Switzerland

France                                                      Lichtenstein                      

Germany  

Greece

Hungary

Iceland

Italy

Latvia

Lithuania

Luxembourg

Malta

Netherlands

Norway

Poland

And so, what are the steps in applying for a Schengen Visa?

I have applied through the Czech republic embassy in Manila before and i just followed these simple steps. 

Step 1 : Determine which embassy to submit your application

If you are travelling to only one EU country then you have not much of a problem but if you are intending to travel to 2 or more state then you must follow the rule . It is highly suggested to apply in the embassy of the country you will be staying the longest. What if you'll be spending equal number of days ?  Then apply to where you will be entering first according to your itinerary.

For example : 

(entry) 4days France + 3days Spain + 7days Italy (exit)  = Apply in Italy Embassy

(entry) 4days France + 4days Italy (exit)  = Apply in France Embassy

It will also help if you have an itinerary prepared for your trip to determine exactly your embassy . 

Step 2 : Prepare your Documents

Now that you have determined which embassy to apply to check the official website of that particular embassy for the required documents. As i have said every embassy has their own set of required documents. Others such as the French Embassy require a Cover Letter but the Czech Rep Embassy and the Netherlands Embassy does not need one. So read through and carefully take note of the requirements because it can make or break your chances of getting a Schengen Visa. Remember that these embassies are quite busy and they are quite unforgiving if you appear before them with incomplete/missing documents.

So check, double check the requirements. If you are unsure or have questions  , you may contact them prior to your appointment . 

Generally speaking the required documents for Tourist Visa are :

1. Original Passport

2. 2x2 photo 

3. Duly Filled up Application Form

4. Proof of Employment - Certificate of Employment , Leave of Absence, ITR

5. For business owners - DTI/SEC/ ITR

6. Proof of sufficient means of substinence - Bank Certificate , Bank Statements (6months)

7. Day to Day Itinerary 

8. Proof of accomodation - Hotel Reservation

9. Airline Reservation

10. Travel Insurance 

Numbers 7-10 can be acquired from a travel agency for a nominal fee.

Step 3 : When to apply

You may apply as early as 3 months prior to your intended travel date and the latest at least 20 working days before your travel date. Give yourself enough time because you will never know if the release of your passport will be delayed. 

One rule to apply here is, DON'T BUY your tickets yet. The embassy does not require you to buy your tickets . In fact it is not an advantage if you show them a finalized ticket. 

Step 4 : Set an appointment 

You need to call the embassy or the visa application center (handling the visa of a particular embassy) to set an appointment for interview and submission of documents.

Step 5 : Submit your requirements/Pay the Visa Fee

Some Embassies conduct interview upon submission of application some do not. Certainly, biometrics are taken upon submission. You should also prepare your payment in CASH (peso currency) or a Managers Check (in the case of a Visa Application Center). 

Be sure to bring all pertinent papers because as i said it can make or break your application. The embassy may also ask for additional documents from you if they deemed it to be necessary.

Step 6 : Waiting Game

The embassy or the Visa Application Center will designate a date of release of your passport (with ot without a visa stamp). All you have to do is wait and pray that your application shall be successful. Processing time varies with each embassy .

If you are granted a visa be sure to abide by the rules and DO NOT OVERSTAY. 

But what if you are not fortunate to get a visa? You may apply again depending on the rules of the embassy . Inquire through the embassy.

Good luck to all visa applicants of Schengen :)

You may also want to read how i got my Schengen Tourist visa through the Czech Rep Embassy in Manila.

Baguio - Educational Field Trip

Our students from Bulacan State University was overly excited on the 3rd day of our educational field trip. The first few days spent in the Ilocos Region was a complete success but very tiring because of the heat. They enjoyed most part of their trip especially during the boodle fight served in Ihawan sa Caoayan .

See happy faces. Clearly enjoying the good weather in Baguio.

Baguio is well loved by many tourists because of its clean air, fairly cold weather, and good food. It is the summer capital of the Philippines and just 6 hours away from Manila.
We left Vigan at around 3pm and arrived in Baguio approx. 8pm in time for dinner. It was an uneventful land trip because everybody was tired and opt to sleep the rest of the way.

Oh how the students loved Baguio. They became giggly when they see Igorots in their traditional wear . They jumped for joy when they visited the La Trinidad Strawberry Farm and saw for the first time a strawberry plant . And no matter how cold it was , they were too eager to eat a strawberry flavored ice cream. Even the Taho is strawberry flavored.

Strawberry Flavored (Dirty?) Ice Cream sold at La Trinidad Benguet

Then we toured them at the Taoist Temple/Bell Church.

Bell Church

Other places we visited : Philippine Military Academy, The Mansion , Wright Park, Session Road, Baguio Cathedral, Mines View Park, Burnham Park

Boating @ Burnham Park

Burnham Park and its legendary sunflower plants

Burnham Park hasn't changed a bit since I last visited. Well maybe for some renovations and other add on vendors but it still evokes a feeling of calmness and of sweet childhood memories.
The students enjoyed exploring Burnham Park and buying souveinirs/pasalubong from the nearby Maharlika Market.

We stayed another 2nights in Baguio. It was a successful trip giving the students a much needed break from their thesis writing .

On the 5th day , we safely travelled back to Bulacan where the parents and guardians of our students are patiently waiting for our return. I was more than thankful that I was able to deliver back the students to their respective parents safe and sound.

For travel questions and requests , you may go to our FB page (search : VIAJE ROYALE TRAVEL SERVICES)

We'd be happy to assist you :)

Ilocos Region - educational field trip



Confucius says "Choose a job you love and you will never have to work a day in your life"
While some of us are blessed with our dream jobs , some still suffer from the rut. I have gone through the worst 9 to 5 routine in the past , jobs that I dreaded , boss that freaks me out , colleagues that were not too friendly, pay that were sub living standards etc. But now I'm happy that I'm in control. The best part is, I can travel whenever and wherever I want.

The best I love about my job is whenever I am at work I can play and play ,(when i'm on vacation) can be a business opportunity. It's a win-win situation eh?

My trip to the Ilocos Region is one of those days that I had to work and play at the same time with 50kids in tow. Graduating Engineering students of the University of Bulacan chose to travel to Ilocos (and Baguio) to cap off their College life. It's an educational trip to kick off and launch their adult life .


Graduating Engineering students of Bulacan State University in tow for an Educational Trip in the Ilocos Region (2015)



Day 01 :
We commenced our trip by visiting Metro Clark Waste Management and Clark Water Treatment Facility . As it was on the way going to Vigan , we spent half day in Clark for the obligatory Plant Tour Visit which was headed by the representative of the Clark Tourism board , Ms Lyzia Marzan.

IE students listening intently on the process of waste management implemented in Clark

Their spokesperson inviting the graduating students to apply at their facility after graduation. Ha!



A quick lunch @Ikabud Restaurant in San Fernando and we were on our way to Vigan.
Vigan is 7 to 8hours from Manila . Or from Clark it's a solid 5 to 6 hours by land. Students took this opportunity to catch some Zzzzzzsss because  pickup at the school premises was early morning.

It was past 9pm already when we arrived in Vigan and everybody was really hungry. And so instead of checking in first we had dinner @Ihawan sa Caoayan. It's a boodle food fight type of serving. Really nice , filling , delicious , authentic and inexpensive. Highly commendable. #Musteat when in Vigan.


Sorry for the crappy picture. It was late at night. Everybody hungry. No more energy for posing .
Long line of boodle fight food served only @Ihawan sa Caoayan. The Best!
 

Day 02:

Save this day for Laoag and Pagudpud. From Vigan we headed to Laoag which is approx. 1hr and 45mins away. 

Beautiful Paoay Church.

 

Paoay Empanada. My Tour Guide Claire says it is different from the Vigan Empanada in terms of filling.
Must Eat! And don't forget to dunk it in sukang iloko. Makes me hungry now while typing :)

And while the students are touring the Paoay Church , I cannot resist the urge to try their famous Paoay Empanada. It costs around 50pesos and delicious! It kept me fueled until we reach our destination in Pagudpud which is another 1hr and a half.

Bangui Windmills

En route to Pagudpud , who wouldn't notice these gigantic fans ? Bangui Windmills is a tourist attraction in Bangui, Ilocos Norte. It's a power generating windmill farm . Need I say more ? :)
This area is best for picture taking only. No swimming please. Water current and waves is strong and the public are advised to stay out of the water. Entrance is FREE but it would not hurt if you buy some trinkets from the locals as souveinir. Help them survive.

Kapurpurawan Rock Formation
 

My tour guide , Claire reminded the students to be careful when traversing the rock formations. One slip and you may hurt yourself . And if you're really tired ,there are horses to take you there for a fee .



Group picture @Patapat Viaduct.
Happy students makes us happy too!
 

Day 03 :
Our last day in Ilocos was spent touring Vigan. We started off in Baluarte.

Free entrance in Baluarte. Gov Chavit Singson's pet animals are showcased here.

 

Other Vigan attractions we visited are : St Paul's Cathedral , Burgos Museum , Paburnayan (Jar making), Heritage Village (where you see old houses preserved and souveinir shopping), Bantay Church and Bell Tower .
My favorite place of all Vigan is Plaza Burgos where I can enjoy piping hot Vigan Empanada.

See how it differs in color with the Paoay Empanada. The brightly colored emapanda is enticing to the eye as against the pale colored one in Paoay. My verdict is...... Still Vigan Empanada :)

While my students are touring the Heritage Village, I was munching on this perfect empanada. Sorry students I gotta eat here :)

Our last meal in Ilocos before going up to Baguio is Ihawan sa Caoayan.
To enjoy this fare you must dig in with your bare clean hands.

Now after lunch our students were quite excited because our next stop would be : BAGUIO!!


For travel questions and requests , you may go to our FB page (search : VIAJE ROYALE TRAVEL SERVICES)

We'd be happy to assist you :)






Tour El Nido Palawan

I started this blog when i was in my 30-ish , at the point in my life when i quit the comforts of a monthly paying job and try to earn money from business. I promised myself that if i earn enough that i would treat myself to some luxury such as trips abroad or domestic (within phils). Things i cannot afford when i was still tied up with the corporate world. I am proud to say that i've traveled to most part of Southeast Asia and covered at least 75% of the Philippine islands (that's over exagerating coz we have 7,107 islands in the phils.:):):)). I have my favorites. Apo Reef in Occidental Mindoro tops up my list for its simple beauty. Coron Palawan for its pristine waters and friendly people and grilled fish. I'd go for Boracay for a  beachcapade. And for a really quick getaway i head to Batangas for a diving/snorkeling session.

As you may notice, i like being in the water . I love the beach. My mother would always tell me not to soak up too much sun because i'm brown already (she always has whitening products for me to try on). But alas, no motherly persuasion can deter me from El Nido's warming embrace. :)

El Nido

El Nido has always been compared to Coron. Some people say they prefer Coron over El Nido and some say otherwise. As for moi? I LOVE them both. I love their Karst limestone formations, secret/hidden lagoons , turquoise waters, prehistoric caves , waterfalls, powder fine beaches . I think El Nido has more island tours to offer than Coron. Our 4 day stay in El Nido was so limiting that we had to combine 2 tours in one. Here's our itinerary :

Day 01: Arrive 0900am Puerto Princesa ; airport pickup for transfer to El Nido town.
             Land travel via private van (6 hours) . Arrive town at 0300pm . Check in.
             Buy food supplies from the market for island hopping tour next day.
             SIDETRIP: Marimegmeg beach

Day 02: Tour A & C combination
Helicopter Island
Hidden Beach
Matinloc Shrine
Star Beach
Secret Beach
Hidden Lagoon
Big Lagoon
Small lagoon
Simizu Island
Seven Commando

Day 03: Tour B & D combination
Vigan & Snake Island
Cadugnon point and cave
Pinasil Island and Cathedral Cove
Cadlao Island
Pasandigan beach
Natnat and Ipil beach
Bucal beach
Paradise beach

Day 04: Transfer back to Puerto Princesa city

Tour rates are as follows:
Tour A 

Standard Cost: PhP 700 per person
Main Destination: Miniloc Island
Places to visit:

• Small Lagoon (Miniloc Island)
• Big Lagoon (Miniloc Island)
• Secret Lagoon (Miniloc Island)
• Simizu Island
• Entalula Island
• 7 Commando Beach

Tour B

Standard Cost: PhP 800 per person
Places to visit:

• Snake Island
• Cadugnon Cave
• Pangulasian Island
• Cathedral Cave
• Pinagbuyutan Island

Tour C

Standard Cost: PhP 900 per person
Main Destination: Matinloc Island
Places to visit:

• Matinloc Shrine (Matinloc Island)
• Secret Beach (Matinloc Island)
• Hidden Beach
• Tapuitan Island
• Helicopter Island

Tour D

Standard Cost: PhP 700 per person
Main destination: Cadlao Island
Places to visit:

• Cadlao Lagoon
• Bukal Island
• Ubugon Cave
• Paradise Beach
• Natnat Beach
• Pasandigan Cove

Touring El Nido must not be rushed. I highly suggest you to have at least one (1) week allotted for travel/tour/transfers . But if time is of essence then choose the best tour for you. My personal favorite is TOUR A and TOUR C. I definitely enjoyed the secret passages to hidden lagoons small or big . Truly a paradise for snorkeling and kayaking.

Island Hopping tour essentials (what to bring):
1. Snorkeling gears - mask , snorkel, fins. If you have one at home then you must bring it for hygiene purposes (wink). If you do not own one then the tour company will provide . Request for fins so you may propel yourself better in the water.
2. Dry Bag - or any plastic to protect your belongings from getting wet.
3. Sunblock cream - hey we're in a tropical country and even when you're in the street sun rays can be very very potent.
4. Mosquito repellant cream - we had to bring this for the little ones. We were informed by the boatmen that mosquitoes in Matinloc Shrine can be very nasty. So better be safe than sorry.
5. Swimsuit/rash guard - my swimming attire preference is to always don a rash guard coz i spend most of my time in the water and i easily get ---> you guessed it right ---> rashes .
6. Breads - for fish feeding.
7. Waterproof Camera -best investment you can get if you love being in the water.
8. Snacks / Bottled water - swimming can zap your energy just like that . You cannot find Sari Sari (convenience) stores in any of the islands so bring something to munch on in between activities.
9. A good book - but be sure to stash it in #2.
10. Friends/Family - or if you're a solo traveler it's the best way to create new friends.

See our faces? They're grinning from ear to ear. love the place. @ Matinloc Shrine

Ways to get to EL NIDO (cheap and expensive way)

It's been months and i miss EL Nido Palawan already. Who wouldn't? If only time and much needed resources would permit i would jump on a plane and beach bum until my skin would roast no more. But you see, El Nido is not just a long way from Manila but also direct flights come with a price tag. Don't you worry price is subjective . What might be expensive for me may be affordable for you. Mind you i am just such a miser. I always try to find the most affordable way to travel because i need to cure my itchy feet at least 4 to 5 times a year.

There are two ways to get to El Nido from Manila the cheaper longer route version and the more expensive but shorter route. As of writing there is only one carrier who flies directly to El Nido and that is ITI or Island Transvoyager Inc. They have daily flights from Manila to El Nido and back . Please see below their flight schedules:

Manila to El Nido
etd 0730am - eta 0845am
etd 1130am - eta 1245pm
etd 0300pm - eta 0415pm

El Nido to Manila
etd 0930am - eta 1045am
etd 0100pm - eta 0215pm
etd 0500pm - eta 0615pm

Fares:
One Way - P 6,000++ (adult)  P 4,000++ (child)
Roundtrip - P 12,000++(adult) P 9,000++(child)

You are allowed 10kgs baggage only. In excess you will be charged with P100/kg. Take note that your luggage may be offloaded in the event of aircraft overloading so just bring your essential necessities if you don't want your precious luggages to be left behind. You only need your swimming apparels in the islands because you will be doing a lot of immersing in the water. El Nido's beauty is best viewed in the water under or over it if you know what i mean :)

El Nido airport is just 4 kms out of town. Upon arrival you may hire a local tricycle to bring you to town. Or alternatively, if you've made prior arrangements with your resort for airport pickup then that would be less of a hassle for you.

Tip: Book your flights the earliest possible especially during the peak seasons (Holy Week, Christmas, New Year, Chinese New Year, summer months of April to May). The aircraft can only carry 19 passengers at a time.

Contact them through:

E-mail: elnido@mailstation.net 

Website: www.elnidoresorts.com

Contact No. (632) 894-5644 . Fax (632) 810-3620

Now for the less expensive option which i would take at any given time. You may fly from Manila to Puerto Princesa Palawan and from then on do a 6-7 hour land trip to El Nido. This may be done by boarding a RORO bus or renting a private van if you're a big group.

Airlines flying from Manila to Puerto Princesa are Cebu Pacific, Air Asia Zest , Pal Express

Before leaving for El Nido i have read numerous blogs pertaining to ways on how we can do it the cheapest way . Aparrently there are RORO bus plying the PPS to EL Nido route but as i have learned it would take longer to travel because of stops along the way . We have 3 kids on tow so we opted to get a private van . We arranged it through our guesthouse and saved money with this kind of arrangement because they picked us up at the airport instead of going to San Jose Terminal (in Puerto Princesa City) first.

For a more comprehensive and detailed instruction on how to get to El Nido by land and/or even water, i found this very helpful.

I must tell you that it was a loooonngg and bumpy ride for the most part of it but it was surely worth it. The oooohhhss and the aaahhhs i heard from my family upon reaching El Nido was priceless. It surely was comforting for someone who arranged this itinerary.

What about you? How would you like to travel to El Nido?

Hello Kitty at T2 of Taoyuan Int'l Airport

This is how the design of their aircraft actually looks like.

Hello Kitty Eva Air Kiosk

Hello Kitty Jet travels with you . That's Eva Air's tagline for their Hello Kitty airplanes traveling from Taipei to Shangahai , Japan , Seoul Korea, hongkong and Guam.  In the departure Hall of the T2 of Taoyuan Airport you will find the Hello Kitty lounge (i don't know really what to call it but it's sort of a lounge with eva air's hello kitty kiosk for check in purposes and some hello kitty merchandise ).

Here's Eva Air Hello kitty flight info/website.

I found a blogger who actually experienced riding the Hello Kitty aircraft. Oh how i envy him. I hope someday i may also experience it for myself. I couldn't get enough of this Hello Kitty madness as i have told my previous encounter with it in the city.

Hello Kitty in Taipei

Hello Kitty Donuts from Mister Donut Taiwan

The last place i thought would find Hello Kitty is inside a donut place immortalized in what else ? a kitty shaped donut! I went gaga over the cuteness of these donuts. I simply cannot pass the chance and went ahead and bought one.  I was like a child in a candy store feasting my eyes with the pink kitty cuteness. The Kitty donuts were unlike the ordinary ones because they are very chewy and soft to the bite. It's like it is made from glutinous rice consistency.

I wish to buy a box to take home to my niece back in the Philippines who loves Hello Kitty so much. I'm sure she would love it.

All these Kitty cuteness is available at all Mister Donut stores around Taipei city.

You may also find Hello Kitty at the Terminal 2 of Taoyuan International Airport.

Left Luggage Service in Taiwan (TMS)

One thing i've noticed in Taipei is how tourist friendly the city is! All their signages are written in chinese with a corresponding english translation. Very convenient for visitors with no whatsoever comprehension of chinese language.

One thing we find very handy is knowing that there is a left luggage service at the Taipei Main Station.

Find the Left Luggage Lockers in TMS:
At the main station look for signages pointing to building B1. When you get to B1 you will see the TRA/HSR ticketing counter and across it are multicolored lockers .

Baggage Lockers at the B1 of Taipei Main Station

For the Floor Map of the Taipei Main Station :

Download it here.

I've put a pink star to indicate the B1 floor and where the lockers are located. Spotting the multicolored lockers isn't so hard really.

From what i have seen there are 3 types of lockers. One for small bags/backpacks , second is for medium sized luggages and third is for large luggages.

Locker fee is as follows (as of July 2013):
NTD20/first 3 hours - small bags
NTD30/first 3 hours - medium sized bags
NTD70/first 3 hours - large sized bags

You can leave your bags for a maximum of 3 (three) days only.

How to use this facility?
1.Choose a locker which fits your bag. Look for a locker that is unused (door of locker is open).
2. Prepare your payment . You may pay intially the first 3 hours fee if you are not sure how long you will leave your bags.
3. Insert your payment at the coin slot.
4. Claim your confirmation ticket and don't forget to close the locker door.
5. Keep your confirmation ticket. There is a confidential series of numbers written on your ticket. Don't divulge to anyone these numbers or else they may claim your bags :)
6. Don't ever lose your confirmation ticket.

Leaving your bags in your hotel is an option too but we opted to leave it at the main station for convenience because the Airport Bus leaves at the Taipei West Bus Station (K12 exit from the K-underground mall or MRT exit M5 or underground Mall exit Z3).

Sorry but i've not known any baggage lockers in any other part of the Taipei Railway Stations. If you have any other information please feel free to input some info for the other readers. Thank you.

Taipei - day 03 (Taipei 101)

Our last day in Taipei was a bit gloomy with the onset of Typhoon Soulik . It's all over the news even the night before the government was forewarning the locals of possible havoc this typhoon can cause the country. Anway, after our swift hotel checkout at One2Stay in Ximending we went directly to Taipei Main Station ( It's just one stop from Ximen). Our purpose for going to TMS was to look for baggage lockers where we could leave our luggages before we head to the airport for our flight. I have researched and read from other blogs that there are baggage lockers in TMS. And by following directions to the TRA ticketing windows we found what we're looking for. Multicolored lockers with different sizes which you can choose which best fits your needs.

Multicolored Baggage lockers in Taipei Main Station

 How to get to Taipei 101 from Taipei Main Station?
Board the MRT going to Taipei City Hall. Upon exit look for exit 2 then go outside. Wait for the free shuttle bus going to Taipei 101.

After leaving our luggages we then boarded the MRT to Taipei City Hall. At exit 2 you will find free shuttle bus going directly to Taipei 101. It's a short ride to the 2nd tallest building in the world but then the skies are now showing it's gonna pour huge amounts of water so we then immediately sought refuge in Taipei 101. This building houses lots of branded stuff. All very expensive brand (which definitely i cannot afford to buy) but we chanced upon 50% off SALE in Longchamp store. After calculations , it came out cheaper and so was able to buy 2 longchamp bags. So happy with my purchase!!

Longchamp Flagship store in Taipei 101

We were able to collect a TAX refund from our purchase. Our total bill for the 2 bags was NTD6,100 and our refund was NTD300 so that makes our purchase price go down to NTD5,800 (approximately USD190) for 2 bags. One limited edition Autour de Halong (medium long handle) and Poney Patch (large long handle).

After our purchase we went to their foodcourt to spend our tax refund. There was lots of food choices from Korean to japanese food. We opted for local taiwanese food.

Lo rou fan , porkchop cutlet, fishball soup , oyster omelet, kangkong , chinese fried race

Our lunch cost us NTD250 good for 2 (approx usd8). It was a big lunch that would carry us through late afternoon before we get to the airport.

To burn all those food we stuffed ourselves we then walked it off around the mall. And when the rain stopped it gave us an opportunity to take a picture of the building outside.

the famous L-O-V-E sign right outside the building

Taipei 101 building.

See how gray the skies are? We were so pressured to take a picture of the building because anytime rain might fall.

How to get back to the MRT?
You see the LOVE sign? walk behind it then turn right at the corner. A few meters you will see a covered shed with lots of people queueing for the free shuttle bus to the MRT. The bus will drop you off exactly at the mrt exit and then proceed to your destination.

We originally wanted to visit Chiang Kai Shek Memorial Hall but according to authorities heavy rains are expected that afternoon so for safety, we deleted it in the itinerary. We went back to Taipei Main Station to collect our luggages and headed straight to Taipei west bus station to board a bus going to the Taoyuan International Airport.

Taipei (day 02) - Jiufen and Shifen

Day 02 in Taipei is actually my Birthday!!! My itinerary includes releasing of sky lantern in Shifen. Here's a rundown of our itinerary for day number 2:

0900am - Breakfast
1000am - Go to Taipei Main Station ; Buy train tickets to Ruifang Station (1hour ride)
1130am - etd TRA
1230pm - eta Ruifang station ; board a bus going to Jiufen (15mins ride, NTD15 fare)
1245pm - lunch in Jiufen
0300pm - go back to Ruifang station ; buy train tickets to Shifen station
0330pm - eta Shifen ; buy sky lantern to be released
0430pm - leave Shifen and board a train going back to Ruifang station
0500pm - Buy tickets going to Taipei Main Station (1 hour ride)
0600pm - eta TMS and shop a little bit in the underground mall
0800pm - head back to hotel

How to get to Jiufen?
From Taipei Main Station buy a TRA (train ) ticket to Ruifang Station. Travel time is approximately 1 hour and no reserve seating . Fare is NTD50 - NTD75. Upon arrival in Ruifang station exit , cross the road where the bus stop is. Board a keelung bus  with a signage Jiufen . The bus ride takes around 15mins only and you will disembark a few meters from the Jiufen Old Street entrance.

TRA -----}Ruifang Station------}board a bus to jiufen

Jiufen overlooking the sea

Jiufen is a small town north of taiwan. It's an old gold mining town but now a tourist attraction. Throngs of tourist buses loaded with tourists (mostly koreans and japanese) are led to this town everyday. Because of Jiufen's high altitude, it's climate is cooler than the city. It's like Tagaytay here in the Philippines. But what makes it unappealing to me is the too crowded streets laden with food vendors and tourists. Best to navigate the back streets to experience the culture of the place and to avoid people at the same time. If you're a photo enthusiast then you may find interesting subjects far away from the people. You just have to be adventurous to explore more.

We did not buy anything from here because we find the prices too high and geared towards the tourists. We found a cozy nook at a restaurant (i forgot the name) overlooking the sea. It's located at the back away from the crowd. Food served was not nice but the view is fantastic!

Yay!! Look at the throngs of tourists!!!

Maltose candies molded into cartoon characters

Grilled Snails anyone?

To get back to Ruifang Station , board a bus on the opposite side where you disembarked and board a bus going to the station.

After Jiufen, my mission is to release a sky lantern in Shifen.

How to get to Shifen?
At the Ruifang Station, buy tickets for Pingsi Line heading to Shifen. Fare is NTD20. Travel time is roughly 30 mins.

Going to Shifen the train was not too crowded and we had seats. But going back was a different story. It's way too crowded and overflowing with passengers. But it's okay .

Pingsi Line train going to Shifen

Upon arriving, we wasted no time and immediately looked for a shop that would sell us a sky lantern. It costs NTD150 for four colors lantern. And you have to write (using a calligraphy pen) your wishes.

Me writing my birthday wishes!!!

Then fly away my sky lantern.

Sky Lantern Festival is being held in Shifen every year (i think every February). I wish i could go back and witness this festival. But for now i wish all my wishes would come true!!

Taipei (day 01) - cont.

Our destination for our first day is Beitou (Thermal Valley) , Danshui ( seaside district of New Taipei City) , Shilin Night Market.

Beitou is in the northern part of Taipei which is famous for Hot Springs.

How to get there?
Take the Red MRT line to Beitou and transfer to Xinbeitou line.The Xinbeitou line is a themed mrt with colorful cabs. Upon exiting , just go straight out and there are directional signages going to Thermal Valley.

Xinbeitou line mrt colorful cabs

Inside the mrt

Because it was summer  it's quite hot walking towards the Thermal Valley. You will pass by a number of hot spring resorts and hotels and some public bath. We did not try the public hot spring bath because we were pressed for time, maybe next time.

Beitou public library

Beitou Thermal Valley aka Hell Valley

From afar you would know that you have reached the thermal valley with the smell of sulphur.
There's not much to see in Beitou except taking a dip in their public hot spring bath. Just be sure to bring bottled water to keep you hydrated specially during summer.

After Beitou, you're probably hungry with the walking done. We headed to Danshui for our first night market experience.

Hot to get to Danshui from Beitou?
From Xinbeitou ride the mrt to Beitou. Transfer to Danshui line. When you exit look out for the Mister Donut store on your left and follow the path going to Danshui old street.

Danshui or Tamsui or Danshuei is at the northern end of the red mrt line . It is very popular with tourists for its sunset and fisherman's wharf. One may explore the old danshui streets by foot and you can never go hungry with the numerous food stands.

Stinky Tofu. Not really workin for me. To each his own taste. NTD40/stick

This one is really nice. Octopus tentacles covered in special batter. Delicious!!! NTD100/cup (big)

Bittergourd Juice. Who would have thought? But it's not bitter at all. Refreshing drink at NTD60/cup (big)

Chicken Nuggets. Spicy or regular. NTD55/small bag

We were so full after trying a few . It's a good thing you only have to walk it off then resume eating. Watch the sunset for a romantic evening. Or go to Lover's Bridge.

When we've had our fill and our bellies are bursting , we rode again the MRT going to Shilin Night Market. Go down Jiantan Station (not the Shilin Station) and upon exit at the mrt you will see immediately plenty road side shops selling food and other knick knacks. Food again????? And just as we thought we couldn't take in anymore food , we still had to try food that we did not find in Danshui. The trick is, walk and walk and walk then when you go hungry again go and indulge.

Shilin Night Market entrance

Shilin Night Market houses a plethora of clothes, shoes, bags, cellphone housings and all other things you want to buy!!

By this time we were so tired from walking and eating so we decided to go back to our hotel to rest. :)