I fractured my right 5th metatarsal last March after attending my niece's graduation. But I only got my foot placed in a cast after Holy week, since I sought a bone specialist for it. My blue, rough, half-calf cast was molded on me last April 1. Given that, I asked my Orthopedic doctor if I could still travel to Tacloban. But he advised that I put it off for now. I was disheartened after I heard his advice, especially when I was already booked to leave on April 22. Then again, I had to divert my disappointment since my health was my first priority. I didn't want to have to travel with a cast anyway, even if I brought my crutches with me.
The next concern was rebooking my flight with PAL Express, since I could no longer make the trip. So after getting my diagnosis, I immediately contacted the airline. I was then advised to email my concerns.
When the Piso fare was offered by Tiger Airways (in partnership with SEAIR) last February 2013, I didn't think twice about booking a trip with them. And since I wanted to visit Davao this year in time for Kadayawan, I was lucky to find seats that offered P1 for each route (MNL-DVO-MNL). My total was PHP675.04 (fare price + fare fees & taxes + service fee + special services a.k.a. extra baggage allowance). So when I got my booking details, I paid for my ticket at Cebuana Lhuiller that same day. Come 10:22 AM, I was already paid in full. So when I got home, I immediately called SEAIR's hotline to confirm my payment. 2 days later (after following up my trip details a few times), they finally emailed my itinerary. I also asked the CSR if there were hidden charges, which she answered 'no' to. I mean, the rate was unbelievably cheap so I had to ask. It was just too good to be true. Then again, it was.
And on May 2, I received this unfortunate email from Tiger Airways...
I'm very fortunate to know travel enthusiasts (family and friends) who never fails to think of me when they see Starbucks Mugs in sight. And since mylast update, I now have 9 additions to my collection. =)
Boracay, Makati, Baguio, Bacolod, Davao (all from the Philippines), Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Los Angeles and Bali (Tumbler).
The first time that I stayed at Great Eastern Hotel, QC (also known as Aberdeen) was in 2007. My Kuya wanted my 2 sisters and I to have a relaxing weekend, so he booked us a room at Great Eastern's new wing. I wasn't particular with hotels at the time, so I was pretty much satisfied with how our staycation went.
So when Rubel and I wanted to relax, we opted to stay somewhere nearby (since I couldn't walk long distances yet). Thus choosing Great Eastern. Then again, we didn't expect to get disappointed later on. Anyway, here's our review below.
I've been feeling under the weather for a month now because of the foot cast that constantly reminds me of a very bad fall. Not only is my left calf muscle rapidly wasting away, being immobile for the longest time also takes an emotional toll on me. The month of April was supposedly an exciting time for me since travel plans were already in place (a quick beach escape, a weekend festival, a trip to Tacloban City).
Being on house arrest and not being able to work is pretty sad on my end. But I still try to keep things productive by stuffing myself with all the positive things that one can get from online resources (Pinterest and Craftgawker are awesome boredom-busters!)
Just wanted to share one of my current pick-me-uppers --- a super cool travel layout from Travel + Escape, which has certainly helped lift my spirit! :)
I had the opportunity of dining in Napa Restaurant & Bar one January evening with blogger friends --- those who I had the honor of working with at last year's FBW 1st Grand Eyeball. The admins and I wanted to treat the volunteers from that event to a thanksgiving dinner of sorts. Thus our post-Christmas gathering at NAPA.
COZY AMBIANCE
NAPA is actually a casual dining restaurant in Quezon City (by Scout Borromeo). A nice place where warm greetings will immediately welcome you. The food establishment that serves both American and Italian dishes looked a lot like a cozy and stylish home. But other than that, the beautiful interiors of NAPA was also inspired by the rustic vineyards of Napa Valley in San Francisco, and was lovingly designed by Cynthia Gaerlan.
I therefore conclude that my right foot is totally injured! Yes, I tripped somewhere down the road -- and this was just yesterday after attending my niece's graduation. But this latest issue of TURISTA Magazine has certainly made my crippled day WORTH SMILING about!
Please get a FREE copy at any of the NAIA Terminals and check-out my Pagudpud Feature. Ü Rubel and I are on print again.. Hooray for BUDGET BIYAHERA! Woohoo!!
UPDATED: As much as I would like for you to read the online version, Turista Magazine's link no longer exists.
Budget Biyahera is about finding fun and distinct food and destinations, accommodations, products/gears and activities that people can enjoy on a ‘regular’ person’s budget and schedule.
