Budget Biyahera: Search results for hotel

Anniversary-Worthy Hotel in Makati: Best Western, A.venue Suites

It has been more than a year since Rubel and I celebrated our 6th anniversary at Best Western, A.venue Suites (December 2013). I would've blogged about it sooner. But time just got the best of me!

January 20, 2015

2 Comments

Budget Hotel in Kuala Lumpur

Malaysia Hotel: Tune Hotels, Downtown Kuala Lumpur

In our brief time in KL, we spent our days sleeping in the comforts of Tune Hotels, Downtown Kuala Lumpur. It was a hassle-free stay, as we didn't experience any problems from the booking stage to checking out from the accommodations (we loved the staff at Tune, as they were super courteous and helpful). We booked our stay from November 16-18 and 20-22, 2013 (we were in Penang in between these dates), and only had to pay PHP1,500 or 120 Malaysian Ringgit per night.

We availed of the Double Room, which we paid to have a 12-hour AC use, and a day's worth of Wi-Fi access.

January 18, 2015

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A21 Bus

Fifth Leg -- Last day in lovely HKG!

{Trip last April 2010} On the fifth leg of our trip, we decided to visit Stanley Beach. The bus trip from Central to Stanley Bay was about an hour’s worth. And since we were scheduled to go back to MNL that night, the little time we had left in HKG was really scheduled.

It was raining that morning so the breeze was extra chilly. Nonetheless, it was the perfect weather, and we were in a perfect place to have brunch, on our last day in HKG. Not only was Stanley Bay a beautiful place, but it also exuded a relaxing mood. And despite the expensive bill that was tabbed for our Italian meals, we truly thought that Pizza and Lasagna was worth our money.

January 12, 2011

16 Comments

Bagnet

Fall in-love with Grandpa's Inn in Vigan City

I fell in love with Vigan immediately after setting my eyes on this particular inn -- one that exuded an old-fashioned attractiveness to it. On a cultural perspective, this beautiful lodge displayed classic and antique exteriors, and of decades old yet well-preserved items. It also had that vintage-y smell that was very welcoming to the senses. Rubel and I truly felt like we were being transported back in the 15th century (Spanish time), as we were witnessing all of these remarkable pieces that surrounded us. Grandpa's Inn instantly became our "home away from home."

August 06, 2012

60 Comments

Binh Tay Market

Day 2 of Backpacking Saigon: 8 City tour sites in under 8 hours!

Rubel and I initially planned a DIY City Tour, so we asked our hotel receptionist, Ms Thu for a city map. As soon as she handed a copy, my beau and I immediately looked for the major sites nearby. Since most of the areas were a bit far from each other, we eventually decided to book a guided travel. Nguyen Khang Hotel was also offering different kinds of excursions. But we only availed of their USD 9/pax DAILY CITY TOUR, which was operated by Youth Tourist Joint-Stock Co.

We were going to be picked up at the hotel at around 8:30 AM, so we still had time to eat our complimentary breakfast while waiting for the guide.

Our guide was a nice, Vietnamese local named Taó. He immediately escorted us to an airconditioned shuttle right after greeting us that morning. A couple of Australians, Europeans, Malaysians and a Filipino were already on-board the van.

February 02, 2013

24 Comments

Citygates Outlet Mall

Awesomeness: Ngong Ping Village & the Giant Buddha!

{Trip from April 2010} Before heading back to our hotel, we would always make it a point to pass by the 7-eleven store that was a few blocks away from Anne Black. And we would always make sure that we purchased these cups of spicy beef noodles that had real beef pieces in them. These were either made into our late-night snack or into our breakfast. But whatever the case was, these sumptuous instant noodles matched with some Yakult always made us happy.

Our tour guide in Shenzhen

January 11, 2011

48 Comments

Asia Travel

Where I've Been: 14 Countries (Mostly Visa-Free For Filipinos)

[Updated since March 2025] Since 2007, I've tried to explore a new part of the world each year. This personal goal has led to a collection of unforgettable experiences, driven by my deep desire to see new places. To share snippets of my adventures, here’s a rundown on the 14 countries that I’ve been to (mostly visa-free for Philippine passport holders) for the past 18 years.

April 04, 2025

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Aquino Center and Museum

2-Day Itinerary: Where To Go, Stay And Dine When In Tarlac

The dynamic “Melting Pot of Central Luzon”, which is a 2-hour drive from Manila, is packed with lots of local sites and exciting activities. You will surely enjoy what Tarlac has to offer, as it features notable and exciting destinations like the Monasterio de Tarlac, Aquino Center and Museum, and Kart City Tarlac. But if you’re looking for a more laid-back escape, you can hit a few golf balls at the nearby Luisita Golf & Country Club, or go kayaking at the beautifully maintained Tarlac Recreational Park. All these and more can be found just in Tarlac.

August 21, 2017

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Abu Dhabi Sites

Abu Dhabi's sites that you can explore on a weekend

Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, is just a 2-hour bus ride from Dubai. While there is plenty of interesting places to see, you can go on a quick weekend tour by visiting some of the sites below.

January 12, 2019

4 Comments

Batu Caves

Day 1 in Malaysia: 5 Sightseeing and foodspotting locations worth exploring in Kuala Lumpur

I didn't have any immediate plans to visit Malaysia. But I definitely included it in my travel list, just so I could see the iconic Petronas Twin Towers in Kuala Lumpur. Yes, I've heard and read about the country and its rich culture. But I didn't give it that much thought. But when my Filipino friends urged for me to visit their second home, I gave it a go and was not left disappointed. Malaysia, let alone its lovely cities and states, have sincerely kept me in awe.

Malaysia, being the melting pot of religions, hosts a cordial, multiracial community. And in my time in Kuala Lumpur and Penang did I see how the society really lived harmoniously despite being so diverse.

July 03, 2014

7 Comments

Capiz

Where to Eat in Capiz - #CaptivatingCapiz

Capiz isn't named the "Seafood Capital of the Philippines" just for nothing. It's a must-visit local destination, as the province has a never-ending supply of prawns, mud crabs, and shellfish. You name it, they surely have what you're craving for!

November 04, 2015

0 Comments

Anne Black Guest House

Budget Biyahera's Trip to HKG, MFM, SZX! =)

{April 2010} This entry marks my first trip for the year 2010. And if you're all wondering as to what these 3-lettered words are, well these are just airport codes: HKG - Hong Kong / MFM - Macau / SZX - Shenzhen. I've already been to HKG and MFM last November 2007, and I must say that being back was like I've never been in these places before. There was always something new to look forward to, despite the familiar faces and establishments. And for me, these two Asian destinations will always be exceptional.. all the more, when SZX added to my trip itinerary!

January 09, 2011

22 Comments

Gam-ja-tang

Day 4: The grandeur in experiencing the Hanok Village

[TRIP from May 5, 2011] We started our day with our usual buffet breakfast at CORE Hotel, plus our morning walk towards the KB JIFF Cinema Square. Lucky for us, there was a photobooth that was being promoted for free to JIFF guests. So we grabbed the opportunity to get a free snapshot. Here's a photo of our freebie (not hi-res though since I only captured the printed photo using my iPod).

September 12, 2011

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Exploring Hanoi's Culinary Tapestry: A 3-Day Journey Through Pho, Banh Mi, and Coffee Magic!

In the heart of Hanoi's old quarters, our senses were awakened by the tantalizing aroma of beef pho, welcoming us to a city that would soon become our culinary playground. Our decision to embark on this 3-day adventure last month was serendipitous, fueled by the allure of inexpensive roundtrip flights that promised a year-end escape.

January 01, 2024

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family friendly hotel Manila

The Bittersweet Truth: An Honest Seda Manila Bay Review and Staycation Experience

After a rough couple of months battling sickness—from December to mid-January—I found myself desperate for a change of scenery. My husband’s birthday was approaching, and so I thought about taking a breather and celebrating his milestone with a short staycation in Manila. We decided to book a two-night retreat at Seda Manila Bay, hoping for comfort, relaxation, and maybe a little healing for our tired bodies.

February 20, 2026

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DFA Aseana

How To Renew Philippine Passport Using Married Name

One of the things that I gave priority to after getting married was my passport renewal. It was actually timely for a name change too, as my passport was about to expire in a few months (September 2016). I also decided to take on my husband's name, by choice of course, because (1) I've long wanted to carry his surname, and (2) having the same last name would help identify my husband and I as one family unit (i.e. easier endorsements when it comes to applying for visas, opening joint bank accounts, making loans).

Moving forward... if you happen to be newly married like me (married just last year!), or already married but haven't gotten the chance to change your last name on your passport yet, you can just refer to our infographic. Please note that the one I made is more applicable for Filipinas who are married to a local as well. The requirements and documents may still differ when it comes to your application type (i.e. for spouse of foreign national who would change their civil status from single to married, for married women who would like to revert to their maiden name).

TIPS WHEN SETTING AN APPOINTMENT

It was July of last year when I got my scheduled appointment online. I still didn't have a copy of our Marriage Contract at the time (the one printed on PSA Security Paper), but I still chose to book in advance despite the odds. Of course, I made a back up plan in

February 06, 2017

14 Comments

Anne Black Guest House

A Shenzhen theme park that's worth exploring: Window of the World

[Trip from April 2010] We were strictly told that if we didn’t make it by 9 AM in the HKG-SZX border, our tour will leave us. And us three being the real deal early birds, we got there with an hour to spare. But much to our expectations, the tour guide was there but a few of the people who booked the same tour were super duper late! And we thought they were going to leave those who weren’t there on time. So much for that.

January 12, 2011

25 Comments

Braska Ermita

Relish Filipino Comfort Food at Braska

I love how some locally owned restaurants continue to offer Filipino cuisines in their menu, particularly those that solely serve native dishes. I do enjoy eating international foods and global cuisines. But nothing beats munching on homegrown meals that are infused with interesting twists, like what Braska does. Braska is a cozy restaurant that serves Filipino comfort food in Bohemian Malate.

November 07, 2016

0 Comments

cebu pacific

Bound for Jeonju, South Korea – One of BB's many first’s for 2011!

My trip to Jeonju, South Korea wasn't that smooth sailing during it's pre-planning stages. It probably took the JIFF coordinator more or less a month before my brother and I could have the 'go' signal to apply for a visa. If I may recall, Choy and I only only got scheduled to go to the Korean Embassy at Mckinley Road, weeks prior to leaving the Philippines. We went there with all our paperwork on April 15 2011, and were asked to submit our Passport and supporting documents. I was also given a claiming stub/slip for our passports after a brief interview, should we get approved of a visa. We were then scheduled to pick-up ours two weeks later.

Choy (my brother) and I submitted our company's SEC Business registration permit (For Brass Knuckles Inc.), Brass' Company ITR, Mayor's Permit, our Bank Certificates, and the Visa Application Form, along with our 2x2 photo/s. These requirements were actually required for Business entities. Anyway, other than being Filipino citizens, we also didn't pay for any application fees since we were only getting a single entry visa. The foreigners on the other hand and those who will be applying for multiple entires will get charged for different amounts.

August 02, 2011

11 Comments

Balyuan Park

Eastern Visayas Tribute: 6 Tacloban City Sites Worth Seeing At Night

Biliran and Ormoc are amazing places. As both areas made me fall more in love with my country. The waterfalls and the rice terraces in Biliran were remarkable. And the historical structures in Ormoc made me appreciate more of the Philippines' past hardships and achievements. So if you've already explored much of Visayas (or any part of the archipelago for that matter), then you will surely agree that "It's More Fun In The Philippines."

But my 4-day backpacking trip in Eastern Visayas didn't end in Biliran and Ormoc City. I continued to wander through Region VIII, and spent my last two days in Tacloban City --- Coreene's hometown. Cuks randomly asked me about plans on visiting her there. We haven't seen each other for so long since she worked abroad. So I decided to book a plane ticket without hesitation. I did it not just for the sake of traveling to a new Philippine destination, but to also spend time with a friend that I missed dearly. I actually thought that I wouldn't be able to make the trip since I broke my 5th metatarsal 3 weeks before the actual departure. But when I had the chance to rebook my plane ticket without being charged, I moved the trip to November. And in the most inopportune time, I left Tacloban a day before Super Typhoon Yolanda hit the Philippines. [You can read my short tribute HERE].

Super Typhoon Yolanda destroyed several areas in Tacloban --- a few of the sites that I will write about here. So allow me to pay tribute to this wonderful place by showing you its beauty before it was ruined by the storm.

June 13, 2014

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Anniversary-Worthy Hotel in Makati: Best Western, A.venue Suites

Malaysia Hotel: Tune Hotels, Downtown Kuala Lumpur

Fifth Leg -- Last day in lovely HKG!

Fall in-love with Grandpa's Inn in Vigan City

Day 2 of Backpacking Saigon: 8 City tour sites in under 8 hours!

Awesomeness: Ngong Ping Village & the Giant Buddha!

Where I've Been: 14 Countries (Mostly Visa-Free For Filipinos)

2-Day Itinerary: Where To Go, Stay And Dine When In Tarlac

Abu Dhabi's sites that you can explore on a weekend

Day 1 in Malaysia: 5 Sightseeing and foodspotting locations worth exploring in Kuala Lumpur

Where to Eat in Capiz - #CaptivatingCapiz

Budget Biyahera's Trip to HKG, MFM, SZX! =)

Day 4: The grandeur in experiencing the Hanok Village

Exploring Hanoi's Culinary Tapestry: A 3-Day Journey Through Pho, Banh Mi, and Coffee Magic!

The Bittersweet Truth: An Honest Seda Manila Bay Review and Staycation Experience

How To Renew Philippine Passport Using Married Name

A Shenzhen theme park that's worth exploring: Window of the World

Relish Filipino Comfort Food at Braska

Bound for Jeonju, South Korea – One of BB's many first’s for 2011!

Eastern Visayas Tribute: 6 Tacloban City Sites Worth Seeing At Night

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