Bangkok banks on it's tourism and since well, tourists are there for only a limited amount of time, they came up with using these river boats for the tourists so that they can minimize the amount of their travel time while also enjoying the sights that Bangkok has to offer at their port side.

 

I made that one up by the way but it makes so much sense because my trip from Wat Arun to Icon Siam was only less than 30 minutes including three stops but I have enjoyed every minute of it. It was sunny as I rode this big boat around 3PM and I am very much proud how I've followed my Day 01 itinerary down to the tee-but I've decided to choose the outdoor seats on the second floor of this boat

Prior to going to Bangkok, I've already planned on getting ahircut and the reason why I've held off for a couple of months is because I dressed up as the iconic Britney Spears for her video "Hit me Baby One More Time" during our Christmas Party-which is a day prior to my Bangkok Trip. I didn't know anyone from my network who has tried getting a haircut in Bangkok so I have decided to try it.

I googled "getting a haircut at BKK" and no clear/preferrable entries came up so I googled Salon at Bkk and "Chalacol" or "Hair Chalacol" appeared which is coincidentally at Icon Siam.

I also feel very proud that I found their salon without instructions (considering that Icon Siam is VERY massive) I ambled since I was also enjoying the coolness inside the mall. Upon entry, I checked their rates and the haircut (with blow dry and shampoo) is at 900 Baht. I refuse to compute that in pesos because if you know me in real life, I don't spend that much on hair cuts. 

Thank you HXP

But then again, Bangkok is known as a shopping district here in Southeast Asia but I honestly had no plans to shop and I went there to sight see, experience new things and eat good food. So I justified that exorbitant amount for a haircut by convincing myself that it's an experience and even if they do a botch-job I can always grow my hair back.

Thais in general are helpful by nature despite tha language barrier. I know I look like a local and ater briefly explaining that I'm not, I informed them that I would like to get a haircut. They showed me pictures and asked me samples of a hairstyle but I told them to surprise me.

Segue- For most of my life, I've had a long black hair. When I say most I meant maybe for the first 14 years of my life-then onwards to 16-30 years of age. The 2 year gap was when I was 14 my dad took me to a barber shop and asked the guy there to give ma a boy-cut which gave me a traumatic experience. I think I only had less than 10 pictures on that 2 year gap that I tried to grow my hair back.

Fast forward to 2019, I partnered with HXP hair studio and literally left my hair ont he hands of a very competent stylist. To date, my hairstyle has always been "surprise me" I've used to always held on to my long black hair because I've equated my beauty to it, that I might go back to my "ugly mushroom shaped face" if I experiment and you know what? I would like ot thank HxP Hair Studio for healing me with my trauma one hairstyle and color at a time. They initially approached me because-wait at this point,  I just realized that I didn't ask them this question)but as of today, I have yet to know the answer but I've been told that  around Chrsitmas Season 2 years ago-sales blew up because of my rainbow colored hair. They approached me for a hair collab-and their sales and exposure somehow grew but they didn't know that they also healed a part of me that used to believe that I only look beautiful when I have a long black hair. I was just talking to a friend this morning about how I look forward to going to HxP beacause the stylist and all the people there will not try to sell you anything and they will only offer ahir suggestions or products only when asked. You can relax knowing that you will know exactly how much you are paying for even before your actual appointment because their Facebook Page is highly responsive to client queries. If you want to get the accurate price of the hairstyle that you prfer, all you have to do is take a picture of your hair, inquire by sending them a message and they will reply swiftly.

This entry is supposedly about my haircut experience with Hair Chalacol but I got distracted. Haha

I guess Hair Chalacol people are not used to having customers giving them freehand as to what to do and it's understandable. After thoroughly shampooing my hair, the stylist cut-off around 3 inches of my hair ever so slowly, gave me a side fringe ever so conservatively, asked me if I was okay with it and I aggressively nodded my head wanting them to actually do more and surprise me but I guess they can't risk a Thailand-Philippines war because that's all they did, they blow dried and curled my hair and now it looks like this

 

 People change

and more often than not, some might think it's too late but for me, it's all in the right time

Taking a little break from my BKK post to share my experience a few days ago regarding application of Students' Permit here in Cebu.

God has put a lot of life deliverables for me this 2023 and while I used to be fine with my previous status quo (commuting in between locations-I don't entirely rely on my husband to drive me anywhere, he also has a busy schedule), riding a bus to take me anywhere is starting to an enormous amount of my time; queuing for one more so. Get me wrong, I used to think driving is a privilege but as with life in general, God will really put you into a circumstance which will require you to acquire skills that will make your life more efficient.

So I decided to again, continue the tedious process of acquiring a drivers' license. In general, going to government offices is really a traumatizing experience for me because when you have a small bladder like mine (the need to pee every hour is real), lining up in crowded places with no clear instructions as to where to go is a waste of time.

I'm glad all that has changed since Duterte's time-I am not going to argue about this with any one because again, I am relating MY experiences. This is not the first time I have processed a student's permit but this is the first time I have processed it more than 6 years ago but I can still remember how different my experiences were. I began searching online on a clear way to go about it but since I am a beginner, the jargon confused me so I decided to try my best to clearly outline the process on how to go about it.

For context, I live at Talisay City Cebu which is right beside Cebu City but our city has it's own LTO office so I am banking on that fact that there will be lesser people there. What I know is that should we enroll in a driving school, and it has to be accredited with LTO before we can process the students' permit. I remember the old process being you have to go to LTO first and the driving classes are actually optional. I used FB to look for an accredited driving school that's around Talisay area, or along the highway of Minglanilla since I will just commute to go there. I found Defensive Driving School on FB and they have a branch at Juana Osmena and along the highway of Tunghaan Minglanilla. 

As of Feb 2023, this promo is still ongoing. For everyone's reference, TDC means Theoretical Driving Class. The promo includes 15 hours of theoretical driving class and 8 hours of driving (options for automatic or manual cars)

I went to their office at Minglanilla and availed of TDC+B combo package. There is an additional Php500 on a chosen combo if you prefer to have it online. I have availed of mine online since the face to face option at that price is scheduled at Tue-Wed-Thu 5 Hours each. I paid for the Php5,799 TDC+PDC B online option and when they gave me the receipt, they told me that I should keep and take care of the receipt since LTO will look for it when I file for my students' license. After payment, they asked for my GMail account since that's where they are going to send my personal access to my theoretical driving class. After sending the link for sign up, they told me that I have 30 days to finish the 15 hours of online class and that access will expire once you have exceeded 30 days. I checked my email as soon as I got home and the link there for sign up and login is very user friendly. Once you can already log-in, the list of classes you have to attend is just a click away. 

 

Please note that these online classes which are in average-two to three hours long can't be clicked forward NOR I personally think you should do so since it's very important as we also don't just think of our safety but also, of other people and drivers with us on the road. 15 Hours of theoretical driving class include a brief history of LTO, LTFRB, comprehensive discussions on road regulations, safety, road signs, how-tos and what to do for different vehicle related situations and for every session, there is an exam/knowledge check that you have to have an 80% passing score.

I finished my online class in about a week since I spare about 2-3 hours everyday before and after work. The officer at Defensive Driving School told me to go back to their office after my 15 hours of TDC so that I can pick up my certificate there-which will also be presented at LTO during the SP processing. It took me 2 weeks to find a time to go there since my plan was to go there, pick it up, and go straight to LTO Talisay for the processing (distance between both buildings are less than 3 KMs only) and I intentionally went after lunch because there are noticeably lesser people on government offices around late afternoon. 

 

When I was at Defensive Driving School to pick up my certificate they took my picture as part of the certificate, and rechecked my requirements (for married women, this includes NSO, CENOMAR, Valid ID and the Driving School TDC Certificate)-all of which, they told me to prepare beforehand before going to LTO. It was already 1pm-ish during this time and I told them that I will go straight to LTO, they have booked me for a Mar 21-22 driving with an instructor schedule and when I asked them if it can be any sooner, they informed me that they will try their best to book me early. I think? on average, since driving schools now are limited due to accreditation-there is a huge back log in which I totally understand.

I arrived at LTO before 3PM and I approached the guard and asked for the first step in processing Students' Permit, he confirmed if they still accept walk-ins during this time since they only accommodate 30 SP applicants' per day. Less than 2 minutes he went back to me and gave me the okay signal and told me to go upstairs for the medical exam. I asked him ahead if there are papers that I need to photocopy and he told me there's no need to photocopy requirements. After I went upstairs to the medical exam area, I filled up a form and paid Php550.00 for the medical exam.

After paying, I went to the doctor inside the room and he checked my eyes, asked standard procedure questions about my health and gave me a clean bill, there is a desk outside the doctor's area and the clerk there encoded my details, asked for my requirements (enumerated above)\ took my picture and told me to go downstairs in the public help desk.

I went to the public help desk, I submitted my documents and they rechecked my requirements, put a stamp on my registration form and told me to go back by Mar07 for the final step. The whole procedure of arriving at Talisay City LTO to leaving took less than 30 minutes

So as of today, February 23, 2023, I have to go back by Mar 07 at Talisay City for the final step and wait for my driving class come Mar 21-22, 2023

I hope this entry helps :) let me know if you have any questions by sending a DM through my socials

IG: MYNYMISNYM

 

As most of us are at home and trying to be one less of a problem, I was thinking that maybe, not being in this together is a better idea.

There is stress in being constantly available for comfort.

This situation is an unfamiliar territory for the most of us and while we are fighting internal battles because we have to drastically alter our life in a span of a few days (prior to announcing ECQ), I think it's for the better if we are not in this together if you have a constant need to be placated. I have to be there for myself too and while prioritizing one's self is quite unpopular, you can't pour from an empty cup.

I am an extrovert; I love options and I exercise choosing whenever I can. I am also quite good at deflecting (hello commitment-phobe) but you can't deflect pandemic; Forced adaptation to the "new normalcy" has no "I'll pass" button and I can't find an alter reality where I have to hide out or day dream until goes away.

COVID-19 isn't giving me options despite the fact that following BASIC AND EVERYDAY rules (okay I am still shocked that not many people have normal standards in hygiene) of prevention. My family and I isolated ourselves as early as we could and if you are like us, it feels like we were merely observers fr. what's happening (Aquarius rising).

I have found ways to spend my pent-up energy by exercising and taking up new hobbies. I have made myself so busy because my optimism hasn't faded yet and it's been 30+ days and I think I might have another meltdown should they extend it for a few more. What I said about my FB post, my worries are so trivial compared to other people but it's my gravity and if you know me in real life, my boundaries and where you should place yourself with me is clearly defined.

Ending my entries has always been the most challenging part, but let me finish this one by asking you nicely to stay at home. If not for yourself, but for us who are shamelessly following this one simple rule yet still suffering because we haven't flattened the curve yet.

Ford Philippines visited Cebu last October 24, 2019 and made a re-rientation on it's Driving Skills for Life program with an aim to educate more drivers to become safer and more responsible while on the road. 

Typed as noun, this programme is UNICEF accredited and what's so awesome about this program is that theories and applications learned are customized per country. Of course, we wouldn't learn how to plow through deep snow here in the Philippines right? 

On it's third year here, they had three training sessions at SM City Cebu which started at 10:00AM, 11:#) and 2:00PM.

Ford first brought it's safe driving training program in Cebu last 2017 and since then, DSFL has trained around 600 private and public utility drivers and road management personnel. The participants learned more about the benefits of smart, safe, and fuel-efficient driving as well as the necessary driving skills to help minimize road accidents, altercations, and traffic congestion.

Ford has also reached out to various BPO Companies to enjoin its employees as DSFL participants and train them to be raod safety advocates. Ford has also tapped its customers in its dealerships and Ford car clubs in Cebu to make them part of the training audience. 

The DSFL program is a combination of classroom training that includes modules on vehicle handling, driving in special conditions, anti-distracted riving, and fuel-efficient driving, as well as a hands-on driving simulation that allows participating drivers to apply their learning from the classroom sessions. The DSFL program is offered to participating drivers FOR FREE

We've all tried it.

We took a trip down south and probably passed by this area near the picturesque blind curve at Boljoon almost bordering Oslob. We were all curious as to what's the name of this church and the history behind it but hey, Oslob is just a few minutes away and we might miss the Butandings so we might as well make a stop NEXT time.

(view from the cemetery)

We made that trip down south and since we had no agenda in mind except to swim at Cangcuay and Tumalog, we stopped by this church. If you are an avid reader of this blog, you'll find a couple of entries about churches all over Philippines and hey, since we are based here, churches and their history is always an essential entry. Though these kinds of entries may appeal to Catholic readers only, it's undeniable that our religion is a part of our culture as a Filipino. 

The Nuestra Señora del Patrocinio de Maria Parish Church is one of the oldest church in southern Cebu. It was built last 1883 and though Sto. Nino is actually the oldest church in Cebu, caretakers has made sure that no renovations or changes are going to be made inside since they want to preserve this for as long as they can. All the shots taken inside the church are the same ones way back 1883. 

The Nuestra Señora del Patrocinio de Maria (Our Lady of Patronage) is the protector of all Virgin Mary. Her fieste is every second Saturday of November and is believed to be miraculous. 

Their altar might look familiar to you since this is the altar featured on the official newsletter during the 50TH IEC Convention held here in Cebu

Our tour guide opened the door for us

Ceiling paintings are made of "tag-ut" coming from the trees. We are assuming that tag-ut means the essence of each tree trunks after it's chopped

  

House Rules:

1. Please maintain silence inside

2. Decent attire is required

3. No lighting of candle inside

4. No eating inside

It's said that there's a baby Jesus inside the glass case but it somehow got missing (refer to pic below). When we asked the tour guide what's her theory as to where it is now, she didn't provide any answer

A closer look at her eyes and you'll notice that it's very detailed

Pews located in front of the adoration chapel

\

view outside the adoration chapel 1

view outside the adoration chapel 2

Perimeter wall of their cemetery

  

Baptism area

view from the outside area of the right side of the church

pulpit

Gate of the cemetery

Perimeter wall of the cemetery

designed of actual gold and carved out from the pillar

designed of actual gold and carved out from the pillar

designed of actual gold and carved out from the pillar

One of my favorite church :) Albur will always be the first

THIS VIEW THOUGH

The Nuestra Señora del Patrocinio de Maria Parish Church (Our Lady of Patronage of Mary Parish Church), commonly known as Boljoon Church, is aRoman Catholic Church dedicated to the Our Lady of Patrocinio in the municipality of Boljoon, Cebu, Philippines, under the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Cebu.

It has been declared a National Cultural Treasure by the National Museum of the Philippines and a National Historical Landmark by the National Historical Commission of the Philippines. It is also under consideration for the UNESCOWorld Heritage Sites of the Philippines as a member of the Baroque Churches of the Philippines (Extension).

You’ve probably Googled and searched about the canyons of Alegria and Badian in Cebu and presumptively watched the video of Biyahe ni Drew on youtube before finally deciding to take the challenge of jumping 25 feet off the cliff into the screaming rapids of Matutina river which could put yourself in potentially scary situation. Or you could be hit by flash flood brought by sudden storm miles away, you might not even know it’s raining before you find yourself neck deep in water. Sounds terrifying, right? It is. BUT your canyoning (or canyoneering) adventure could turn into a stunning experience just like ours if you know the basics and if you take precautions. So just before you book your trip to the canyons of Alegria and Badian, take these safety + survival tips and tricks. You don’t want to spoil your trip by cutting off your own arm. OK I’ll stop.

1. Get a Guide. End of discussion! Alright, I’ll expound why. Even if you have a brain like Hermione’s or have read and watched about canyoning whole summer, nothing beats an experienced guide. Hire local guides from a certified agency or operator because they are familiar with the curves and currents of the trek. My recommended ratio is 1 guide per 4 guests.

2. Wear Safety Gears unless you are a superhero with a super power costume. Your operator will provide you the basic safety gears and please wear them on. You won’t be walking in the park, you will be climbing boulders, sliding down the side of a cliff, and chased by the current. Below is your safety gear checklist:

1. Helmet - This will protect your head from possible collision with canyons or rocks especially when the current is strong or from jabbing the icicle-shaped formation that hangs from the ceiling of erosional caves.

2. Lifejacket - For most of your canyoning course, you will be submerged for periods of time and most of the cave pools are sunk. Wearing a lifejacket will keep you afloat and off from sucking currents. It is also an energy saver when the current is smooth because instead of fighting your way out of the water, you just let the river and lifejacket take you while watching the breathtaking carved landscapes and the overlapping branches and leaves of rainforest trees.

3. Trekking Shoes or Sandals - This pair of footwear will give you a good grip against slippery rocks. You can use running shoes but they can be heavy when soaked in waters.

4. Other Accessories - Gloves, harness, rappel device, wetsuit, and dry bag.

Always wear protective gears and remove all jewelry - it can get snagged on the rock that you'll be clinging to. 

3. Listen to your Guide at ALL TIMES. Your guide will give you instructions on how and where to jump, when to go, and the dangers to watch out for. Stay close to them. If you are canyoning with a group, normally your guides are dispersed into 3 areas: front, middle, and back. It is like you are the sheeps and your guides are your shepherds. Never attempt to do on one’s own volition, let your guide safely demonstrate it first.

Our guides at the edge of a canyon which is about two storey high from the waters below. 

4. Learn the Basic Skills. For all canyoning experiences, good health condition is a prerequisite. Canyoning requires climbing, hiking, occasional swimming, and conquering your fear! If you don’t know how to swim, it’s OK. Tell your guide ahead so he can take necessary precaution to ensure your safety.

5. Know your Limits. Don’t be distressed by peer pressure. The trail has lots of jumping and sliding but of course there are other, safer ways to get to the next landing-place. Although, I must admit that my fear of height washed out after every jump but it cropped up again when we reached the final cliff which is about 25 feet above the running waters. Others plunged, but most of us tramped our way down to the river.

When taking a plunge, force yourself to relax. Wrap your chest with your arms, take a step forward and plunge. Once in the water, calm down. Your lifejacket will do its job. 

6. Lastly, Watch out for Risks. Your greatest threat is flash flood. Before you head out canyoning, check the weather. If there are storms coming up near your route, reschedule your trip. If thunderstorms are already forming by noon, find a place where you can climb out of the canyon or to a secure place high on the canyon wall. Flash flood conditions can develop in less than 5 minutes. Be very careful where you land your feet because the opportunity for a slip is always there.  If you see rocks covered in moss or have blue-green shades, DON’T STEP ON THEM!

I hope I didn’t scare you with all the precautions that I mentioned. I mean canyoning is such a great adventure to do (I SWEAR!) but along it comes danger. As they say, prepare and prevent, don’t repair and repent.

Once you are confident and prepared, you can enjoy more your experience.

Directory:

#iCanyoneeringCebu

Contact number: 09176546065

Email Address: chevyvirtucio@gmail.com and icanyoncebu@gmail.com

Look for: Junior or Chevy

Special  thanks to our fellow Cebu Bloggers: Yang Guardiana, Ly Patromo, Glyth Villamor Lamprea, and Guada Cuizon for their awesome pictures! And for my last tip, always make sure you have fully charged your action cameras because it as important as steering clear of injury. Hahahaha.

Getting ready! The trek actually starts in Alegria and will end at the majestic Kawasan falls of Badian. 

The dense forest of Alegria and Badian obscured the hot spells of midday.

Stalactites hang luminously in the cave ceiling.

Kawasan Falls, Badian.

The BEST reward after 4 hours of canyoning!