Jayson

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October 13 2024

How To Buy Bus Tickets from PITX to Baguio with Solid North Bus

On our recent trip to Baguio for Ivan’s birthday, we opted to take the bus instead of driving. We discovered that Solid North Bus is currently the only bus line that serves the PITX (Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange) to Baguio and vice versa route. Booking was easy, and the ride itself was a smooth and comfortable experience. If you’re planning a trip from PITX to Baguio, here’s a guide on how we did it, plus some useful tips.

About Solid North Bus

Solid North Transit is known for providing reliable transport services across Northern Luzon. Their PITX to Baguio route offers a range of bus classes to choose from. For this trip, we opted for their Luxury Class, and we were not disappointed.

Where to Buy Tickets at PITX

At PITX, Solid North Bus has a ticketing booth located on the ground floor at counters 8 and 9, under booth #6. You can conveniently purchase your tickets here. The departure area is on the second floor at Gate #4.

https://solidnorthtransit.com/pitx-to-baguio/

For travelers wanting a more relaxed ride, Solid North’s Luxury Class offers the following amenities:

2×1 seating configuration with only 28 seats
Air-conditioned environment with spacious legroom
Individual entertainment system with movies, games, and music
Free Wi-Fi and USB charging ports at every seat
On-board toilet for added convenience

Solid North Bus Schedule

Here’s the PITX to Baguio and Baguio to PITX bus schedule, so you can plan your trip accordingly. We booked the 2:00 PM bus from PITX to Baguio and the 7:00 AM bus from Baguio to PITX for our return trip.

PITX to Baguio Schedule	Baguio to PITX Schedule
2:00 AM	7:00 AM
4:00 AM	9:00 AM
5:00 AM	11:30 AM
7:00 AM	1:30 PM
8:00 AM	2:30 PM
10:00 AM	4:00 PM
11:00 AM	6:00 PM
2:00 PM	8:00 PM
4:00 PM	9:00 PM
7:00 PM	10:00 PM
9:00 PM	11:00 PM

With multiple schedules available, you can easily pick a time that suits your plans.

Booking Return Tickets in Baguio

For the return trip, we secured our tickets from Solid North’s ticketing booth at Upper Session Road, near SM Baguio. Like PITX, buying tickets here was quick and straightforward.

Although Solid North Bus is the only bus line serving the PITX to Baguio route, there are other options available if you’re departing from other terminals:

Victory Liner buses serve the Pasay to Baguio route.
Joy Bus operates buses from Pasay and Cubao to Baguio.

However, neither Victory Liner nor Joy Bus operates from PITX for the Baguio route, so keep this in mind when planning your trip.

Our Solid North Luxury Bus experience was smooth, comfortable, and hassle-free. From the ticket booking to the onboard amenities, everything was designed to make long-distance travel more enjoyable. If you’re planning a trip to Baguio and want to avoid the stress of driving, I highly recommend booking a Solid North bus from PITX.

Have you tried taking the bus to Baguio? Which bus line do you prefer? Let me know your thoughts in the comments below!

Disclaimer

Bus schedules may change at any time, so it’s always best to contact the bus company directly to confirm departure times and availability for your preferred route.

October 6 2024

A Weekend in Baguio: A Birthday Celebration and a Much-Needed Recharge

Jayson Baguio, local, Philippines 0

Baguio has always been our go-to destination when we’re not hopping on a plane. There’s just something about the cool breeze, pine trees, and laid-back vibe that keeps us coming back. This time, we headed up to Baguio for a special reason—celebrating Ivan’s birthday. Although we hadn’t planned it far in advance (due to our furbaby Alexa giving birth), it turned out to be the perfect weekend getaway.

For this trip, we decided not to drive. Honestly, I’ve never driven to Baguio before. We have a small car, and while I’m sure it could handle the trip, I’ve always had this feeling that the mountainous roads might be a bit too much for it—or maybe I’m just not ready to take on that challenge yet! So instead, we parked our car at PITX and took the Solid North Bus. It was actually a pretty smooth ride, and it gave us a chance to relax before we even got to Baguio. No need to stress about traffic or navigating the zigzag roads—I just sat back and enjoyed the journey.

This trip wasn’t about sightseeing or ticking off tourist spots. We’ve been to Baguio countless times already, so we skipped the usual places like Burnham Park or Mines View. Instead, it was all about taking it easy, celebrating Ivan’s birthday, and recharging after the busy weeks we’d had. We spent most of our time just enjoying the cool weather and indulging in some good food (because, really, what’s a Baguio trip without food?).

There’s something about Baguio that feels like a breath of fresh air, literally and figuratively. The city has this way of making you feel like you’ve escaped the busyness of life, even if you’ve been there so many times. We spent mornings with coffee, looking out at the view and enjoying the crisp air. It felt great to have no set plans, no rush—just pure relaxation.

For Ivan’s birthday, we kept things simple but special. We had dinner at one of our favorite spots in the city, which has a cozy ambiance and serves up the best comfort food. It wasn’t a fancy celebration, but it was just the way we wanted it. We also got a cake from one of the local bakeries—nothing extravagant, just something sweet to mark the occasion. The best part? The slow pace of the day allowed us to truly savor the moment.

Baguio has become that place for us—a “safe space,” if you will, when we need a break but don’t want the hassle of flying somewhere far. It’s familiar yet always refreshing. Even though we’ve seen most of what the city has to offer, it still feels like a treat to visit. Maybe it’s the climate, or maybe it’s the comforting thought that it’s just a bus ride away.

I love how every trip to Baguio brings something different. This time, it was more about celebrating milestones and finding time to just be. It’s funny how we can go to the same place over and over, yet it still gives us something new each time.

After this trip, I’m still thinking about whether I’ll ever drive to Baguio myself. Maybe one day, I’ll feel more confident behind the wheel, or maybe we’ll upgrade to a car that feels more suited for those winding roads. For now, though, I’m more than happy to leave the driving to the bus and enjoy the view from the passenger seat.

This trip was exactly what we needed—no pressure, no long lists of things to do, just pure relaxation and celebration. Baguio never disappoints, and even after so many visits, it still feels like a little retreat from reality. I’m sure we’ll be back again soon, whether it’s for another birthday, a random weekend getaway, or just because we need a break.

Here’s to more trips like this—spontaneous, restful, and filled with little moments that make life sweeter.

October 5 2024

Landing and Take-off Fees at NAIA Increased: What It Means for Airlines and Passengers

Jayson International, local, Philippines, travelguide 0

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) recently confirmed an increase in landing and take-off fees for airlines using Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), effective October 1, 2024. This move has already raised concerns within the airline industry, with both AirAsia Philippines and Cebu Pacific voicing their worries over how these changes will impact their operations—and, ultimately, the passengers.

With the cost of operating flights out of NAIA set to rise, airlines have warned that this will likely affect ticket prices. The increased fees come at a time when travelers are just beginning to feel comfortable flying again, following years of pandemic-related restrictions. While the government assures that the price hikes won’t necessarily lead to higher airfares, this development deserves a closer look to see if it’s fair to both airlines and passengers. As a frequent traveler myself, I can’t help but wonder: Will we all be paying more just to get from point A to point B?

The Impact on Airlines: Operating Costs and Profit Margins

Let’s first break down how this fee increase affects airlines. AirAsia Philippines was quick to respond to the announcement, stating that these new charges are likely to influence overall ticket pricing. Cebu Pacific echoed similar sentiments, stressing that the changes will impact both airlines and passengers alike.

It’s easy to see why airlines are concerned. Landing and take-off fees are part of their operational costs, and any increase in these fees will either eat into their profit margins or force them to adjust ticket prices. The aviation industry operates on tight margins as it is, and fuel prices, staff wages, and aircraft maintenance already make up a large portion of an airline’s expenses. Add in increased airport fees, and the squeeze gets even tighter.

While Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista has suggested that airlines could absorb some of these costs, it’s not that simple. Large carriers may have more financial wiggle room to handle these changes, but smaller, budget airlines may find it more difficult to avoid passing the increased fees directly onto passengers. Airlines, especially low-cost carriers like AirAsia and Cebu Pacific, have always thrived on offering affordable fares. A rise in operational costs could challenge their ability to maintain competitive pricing.

What It Means for Passengers: Higher Fares or Surcharges?

Now let’s turn to the question that’s on every traveler’s mind: how will this affect us? As an ordinary traveler who loves to score budget-friendly flights, the idea of rising airfare is frustrating. Though Secretary Bautista has said that the increased fees won’t necessarily result in higher ticket prices, we know how the trickle-down effect works. If airlines can’t absorb all of these additional costs, they’ll likely pass them on to passengers in the form of surcharges or fare increases.

To add more complexity, this isn’t just about landing and take-off fees. Starting next year, the New NAIA Infrastructure Corporation (NNIC), which operates NAIA, is also set to increase the passenger service charge. For international flights, this will jump from the current P550 to P950, while domestic flights will see the fee rise from P200 to P390. While these might not seem like massive hikes at first glance, they add up—especially for frequent travelers or families flying together. For a family of four flying internationally, that’s an additional P1,600 just in passenger service charges alone.

Even if airlines manage to keep base fares relatively stable, the added taxes, fees, and surcharges could make flying more expensive overall. It feels like we’re being nickel-and-dimed for every part of the flying experience, and these fee increases will only add to that sentiment.

NAIA’s Upgrade Plans vs. Affordability

Let’s be fair, though. NAIA has long been criticized for its outdated facilities and inefficiencies. If these fee increases are part of a larger plan to improve the airport’s infrastructure and services, there could be a silver lining. A better airport experience would benefit everyone—passengers, airlines, and the tourism industry as a whole.

However, there needs to be a balance. While investing in better facilities is essential, it should not come at the expense of pricing out ordinary travelers. If NAIA’s goal is to align itself with world-class airports, there should be transparency on how the extra revenue from these fees will be used. Will these funds go toward reducing flight delays, modernizing terminals, or improving customer service? Without a clear plan, the fee increases feel more like a burden than an investment in the future.

A Transparent Approach is Needed

As a traveler, I completely understand the need for airports to generate revenue, especially if those funds are earmarked for significant improvements. But what concerns me—and likely many other passengers—is the lack of clarity on how these increased fees will benefit us directly.

Transparency is key here. The government and NAIA’s management need to communicate better about where this money is going and what improvements passengers can expect. If we’re paying more, we should know exactly what we’re getting in return. Otherwise, these increases will feel like yet another cost we have to bear without any tangible benefits.

Moreover, the timing of these changes seems a bit off. Just as the travel industry is bouncing back from the pandemic, placing additional financial burdens on passengers could slow down that recovery. It would make sense to introduce these fee hikes gradually, giving both airlines and passengers time to adjust, rather than implementing them all at once.

A Traveler’s Perspective: The Frustration is Real

As an ordinary traveler, the news of these fee increases leaves me with mixed feelings. On one hand, I understand that upgrading NAIA is necessary, and improvements come at a cost. But on the other hand, it’s frustrating to think that the financial burden will likely fall on passengers like me.

Airfare, especially for budget-conscious travelers, has been one of the few things that made travel accessible. If airlines are forced to pass these costs on, flying might become a luxury again for some. And as much as I love traveling, it’s hard not to feel frustrated when prices keep going up without a clear understanding of where that money is going.

Increased landing and take-off fees, along with higher passenger service charges, are a reality we now have to face when flying through NAIA. While these changes may lead to necessary airport improvements, the lack of transparency and the potential for rising airfares leave many travelers, myself included, with concerns.

It’s crucial that NAIA and the DOTr communicate more openly about how these additional funds will be used. If passengers are expected to pay more, we deserve to know exactly what improvements we can expect in return. Only then will these fee increases feel like an investment in a better travel experience, rather than just another cost to bear.

Do you think these increased fees at NAIA are justified? Will they affect how often or where you travel? Or do you see this as a necessary step towards improving our airport infrastructure?

Feel free to share your reactions, concerns, or even personal experiences in the comment section below.

October 1 2024

NAIA Announces New Parking Rates Starting October 2024: Is It Fair?

Jayson local, Philippines, travelguide 0

If you’re a regular traveler through NAIA, you might’ve noticed some changes as of October 1, 2024. Yep, parking rates at NAIA just went up, and this memo was sent out on September 30, 2024, just one day before it took effect. Now, if you’re a car owner who frequently parks at the airport, you may want to sit down for this one because the overnight parking fee just jumped from Php300 to a staggering Php1,200 for four-wheelers. That’s a 300% increase!

Now, we know the airport is under new management – New NAIA Infra Corp. – and there are always going to be changes when new leadership steps in. But should such a drastic change in parking fees really be happening so suddenly? Let’s break it down a bit and try to see both sides of this situation.

The New Parking Rates

As of October 1, 2024, these are the updated parking fees:

Cars:
- First 2 hours: Php50
- Succeeding hours: Php25 per hour or fraction thereof
- Overnight (for every 24 hours): Php1,200
Motorcycles:
- First 2 hours: Php20
- Succeeding hours: Php10 per hour or fraction thereof
- Overnight (for every 24 hours): Php480
Buses:
- First 2 hours: Php100
- Succeeding hours: Php50 per hour or fraction thereof
- Overnight (for every 24 hours): Php2,400

What’s the Reason Behind This Increase?

According to the memo issued by NAIA’s Leasing and Commercial Affairs, these new rates are necessary to ensure “continued maintenance and improvements” to the parking facilities. Fair enough – maintenance and improvement of facilities are essential for safety, cleanliness, and convenience. In theory, that’s fine. But the timing and the drastic nature of the hike is what’s left a lot of people surprised, to say the least.

An overnight fee for cars jumping from Php300 to Php1,200? That’s no small change. And not everyone will be parking overnight, but even if you leave your car for just a few hours, the rates have still gone up noticeably.

Not Much Notice for the Public

One of the main issues here is the lack of communication about these new rates. Releasing the memo on September 30 and making it effective on October 1 leaves almost no room for the public to adjust or give feedback. People who already had travel plans and weren’t aware of the changes could have easily been caught off guard when they arrived at the parking lot. Imagine thinking you’re paying Php300 for overnight parking and then returning to a ticket that says Php1,200. That’s a hefty surprise.

Some would argue that such a significant change in pricing should be communicated well in advance, not just a day before. This would give customers the chance to plan better or consider alternatives, like booking an airport transfer instead of driving themselves and parking at the airport.

Is It Justified?

On the flip side, let’s think about the facilities at NAIA’s parking. Over the years, the parking areas have been known for being crowded, not the most organized, and let’s be honest – they could use a little facelift. If this price increase really results in better security, cleaner facilities, and a more efficient system, then maybe it’s worth it in the long run. But here’s the catch: There hasn’t been any clear promise of what specific improvements will be made with this new influx of cash. So, it’s hard to judge whether the price hike is reasonable without knowing exactly where the money is going.

Yes, maintaining parking lots and upgrading security systems cost money, but will it be enough of an improvement to justify the 300% increase in overnight parking fees?

The Impact on Travelers

Let’s be real – not everyone who parks at NAIA is rolling in cash. A lot of families park there because it’s more convenient than arranging rides, especially with luggage and kids in tow. For many people, an increase from Php300 to Php1,200 can really strain the budget. It’s understandable that people want more affordable options, especially since travel itself can already be expensive.

Could There Have Been a Better Approach?

It’s not unreasonable to suggest that NAIA could have phased in the price increases gradually. This could have softened the blow for regular customers and given them more time to prepare for the new costs. Maybe start with a 10% increase this month, then another 10% a few months later. It’s always easier to handle small, incremental changes than one giant jump overnight (no pun intended).

Additionally, better public consultation or at least more advance notice could have been a fairer approach. People generally understand the need for price hikes when there’s clear communication and a solid rationale.

Is There a Silver Lining?

We can hope that these higher fees really do translate into a safer, more secure, and more comfortable parking experience at NAIA. At the same time, it’s important for the airport management to listen to feedback and make sure that the price increases are justified and truly result in visible improvements.

Let’s hope that, with the new management, we also get more transparency about where these funds will be used. After all, customers are paying a lot more now for the same service, and it’s only fair that they see some real upgrades in return.

As travelers, we’re all hoping that these changes will eventually benefit us – but for now, it feels like a bit too much, too fast. If you’re heading to NAIA anytime soon, just make sure your budget has a little extra room for that new parking fee!

September 21 2024

Rebooting My Blog After a 7-Year Break: Why I’m Back and What to Expect

Jayson Uncategorized 0

Hey there, fellow wanderers and curious souls! ⁤⁤It feels surreal to be typing this after what feels like a lifetime away from this space. ⁤⁤For those who have been here since the beginning, or perhaps stumbled upon my little corner of the internet recently, welcome! ⁤⁤If you’re new around here, let me catch you up a bit. I started this blog back in 2016, full of excitement to share my travel diaries, guides, and random things about life and food. ⁤⁤It was a passion project that gave me an outlet to express my love for exploring new places and cultures. ⁤⁤But like most stories of life and adventure, things took a detour. ⁤

By 2017, my life took a sharp turn. ⁤⁤Work picked up, I got promoted, and before I knew it, the hustle and grind of a 9-5 (more like 9-9) job consumed every waking moment. ⁤⁤Writing for the blog felt like a luxury I could no longer afford – both in terms of time and energy. ⁤⁤Fast forward to 2024, after a whirlwind of life changes and nearly seven years later, I’m back, recharged, and ready to pick up where I left off. ⁤⁤Let me tell you how this came to be, what the journey has been like, and what you can expect from the blog moving forward. ⁤

From 9-5 Grind to Freelancing Freedom ⁤

Let’s rewind a bit to early 2020. ⁤⁤Like many of you, the pandemic had me rethinking a lot about life, work, and what it means to truly enjoy what you do. ⁤⁤I’d been in the corporate world for almost 10 years, climbing that never-ending ladder, but there was always a nagging feeling in the back of my mind – was this it? ⁤⁤Was this the life I wanted to live forever? ⁤⁤Spoiler: it wasn’t. ⁤

So, in 2021, after a lot of contemplation, I decided to take a leap of faith. ⁤⁤I left my full-time job and transitioned into freelancing. ⁤⁤And wow, what a wild, liberating, and sometimes terrifying ride it has been! ⁤⁤Being my own boss gave me the freedom to dictate my time and, more importantly, gave me space to reconnect with passions I had long set aside – like writing and traveling. ⁤

Freelancing isn’t always as glamorous as some might make it out to be (there are still long nights, tight deadlines, and the hustle to find clients), but it’s given me control over my life in ways I never thought possible. ⁤⁤I’ve been freelancing for over two years now, and the flexibility has allowed me to prioritize things that truly make me happy. ⁤⁤And guess what? ⁤⁤Travel is one of them. ⁤

Why I’m Rebooting This Blog ⁤

Now that I’m freelancing full-time, I have the flexibility to travel more and, more importantly, the time to document those experiences. ⁤⁤Writing has always been therapeutic for meᅳit helps me process my thoughts, experiences, and emotions. ⁤⁤This blog was where I once shared my passion for exploring new places, trying out new dishes, and immersing myself in different cultures. ⁤⁤And I miss that. ⁤⁤I miss the connections I made with readers, the excitement of sharing a hidden gem or off-the-beaten-path destination, and, quite simply, the joy of storytelling. ⁤

⁤But here’s the thing, travel blogging has changed a lot in the past seven years. ⁤⁤The internet is flooded with content, and it can sometimes feel overwhelming to stand out. ⁤⁤However, I’m not here to chase clicks or create content for the sake of it. ⁤⁤I want to bring back that sense of authenticity, sharing stories and guides from my unique perspective. ⁤⁤It’s not just about ticking off tourist spots or following itinerariesᅳit’s about the emotions and personal growth that come with travel, and that’s what I’m excited to get back to. ⁤

So, what’s in store for this blog in 2024 and beyond? ⁤⁤A lot, actually! ⁤⁤While I’ll still be sharing travel guides, I also want to dive deeper into the stories behind the places. ⁤⁤Expect more personal narratives, reflections on how travel has shaped my life (and continues to do so), and practical tips for fellow freelancers and remote workers who want to integrate travel into their lifestyles. ⁤

It’s both exciting and a little nerve-wracking to reboot this blog after such a long hiatus. The online landscape has changed, but I’m approaching this with the same excitement and passion that I had back in 2016. I want this space to be a reflection of who I am now—a traveler, a freelancer, and someone who’s still figuring it all out (aren’t we all?).

Thank you to everyone who’s stuck around, and to new readers who are joining me on this journey. I’m so ready to dive back into this world of blogging, sharing stories, guides, and maybe even a few laughs along the way.

Here’s to new adventures—both in travel and in life. Let’s go!

If you’ve got any travel recommendations, thoughts, or just want to say hi, feel free to drop a comment below or connect with me on social media. I’d love to hear from you!

September 19 2017

Klook: Booking a Shuttle Bus Service in Taiwan

Jayson Jiufen, Taiwan, travelguide 0

Photo from klook

I’ll be traveling to Taiwan on September 25th and I’m really excited for it. It’s gonna be my out of the country trip for this year. My goal is to visit at least 1 country per year ( I went to HongKong and Macau last year) and planning to go to either Japan or Korea next year. Anyway, I’m only gonna be staying in Taiwan for 2 days so that’s kinda sad. But I don’t want to focus on the sad part. I’ll surely enjoy it and make the most out of my 2 day-stay in Taiwan.

Klook.com

So, I did a lot of research and blog reading trying to fit all tourist destinations within my 2 days stay in Taiwan. I figured that it’s really gonna be a tiring no-rest-tour so I have decided to book at least one tour package to somehow save me time and to cover many places as much as possible. But the thing is, I don’t want a guided tour. I read from The Pinay Solo Backpacker’s post about a shuttle bus service from KLOOK. I realized that it’s gonna save me time and effort so I booked the service.

Book your JIUFEN SHUTTLE BUS SERVICE HERE.

Book your JIUFEN SHUTTLE BUS SERVICE HERE.

Photo from klook

I haven’t really tried klook before and it was my first time booking a service with them and so far it went well and smooth. I booked a morning shuttle bus service to Jiufen. As per my research, the shuttle bus will take us to Yehliu, Yeang Yang Sea, 13 Layer Remains, Golden Waterfall, Jiufen and Shifen. The good thing about it is that it’s not a guided tour. The shuttle bus will just take us to those destinations and then we can freely roam around on our own. The service starts at 8:45AM and ends at 3:45PM. So that’s quite a lot of places already in just 7 hours and it only cost me PHP791. You might be able to spend less than that if you do a DIY but I don’t want to take the risk spending time where and what to ride so I just booked the shuttle bus service.

This is what the shuttle bus looks like. Photo from klook

It was a hassle-free transaction. Since I didn’t have an account with klook, I just signed up using my Facebook account. Clicked on my chosen package filled out a form and paid. Just a few minutes after paying I received an email containing the voucher and that’s it! As easy and fast as it can be.

September 3 2017

How to Apply for a Taiwan Tourist E-Visa (for Filipinos)

Jayson International, Taiwan 6

So I applied for a Taiwan tourist E-Visa and got approved in less than 24 hours. Yep! You read it right. I applied online at around 2:00PM on August 22nd and received the confirmation email just 2 hours after submitting the application. So, how did it happen? Honestly, I really don’t have any idea at all. Maybe it was just my lucky day or the officer who reviewed my application was having a good mood. Nonetheless, I got my E-Visa now and all set for my Taiwan adventure.

Taiwan has made its visa application more easier for Filipinos. Last October 2016, they implemented the E-Visa process for Philippine Passport holders who wish to enter Taiwan may it be for business, as a tourist or visiting a relative. It’ll save you a lot of time, hassles and effort. Just apply online, pay through credit card and wait for the approval. The program will run for a year and hopefully will get extended. Read more about TECO’s E-Visa announcement here.

Recently this year, Taiwan Economic and Cultural Office (TECO) also announced the free visa policy for Filipinos. It was first said to start at June this year but was somehow moved to September of 2017. TECO hasn’t published any announcements yet if it’ll push through this September and since I’m traveling to Taiwan on September 25th I decided to apply for an E-Visa. Just to be on the safe side.

Just like you, I also had questions when I was applying for the E-Visa as to how will I answer some questions or what to put and what not. No worries, I’ll be sharing with you a step by step instructions on how did I apply for an E-Visa and got approved just 2 hours after submitting the application. But before we get started, for a faster application process, please ready the following:

1. Passport (must be valid at least 6 months before your travel dates)

2. Travel Dates (Arrival and Departure date in Taiwan)

3. Address and Telephone Number of your hotel in Taiwan

HOW TO APPLY FOR A TAIWAN TOURIST E-VISA

Step 1: Click here.

Click on Confirm and Continue.

Step 2: Choose eVisa Applications

Step 3: Read the information and click on I have read the above information Click here to continue button.

Step 4: This is where you will enter your personal information. Read each questions carefully and make sure that you are typing the information correctly. (wrong spelling wrong bes!)

Helpful guide in some confusing parts in the form:

Select Where You Will Be Applying For Your Visa: Asia > Taipae Economic and Cultural Office in Philippines

Chinese Name and Former or Other Nationality: Leave them blank if not applicable.

ID No.: I typed in my passport number.

Father’s Full Name: My dad’s full name, of course. Format: First Name, Middle Name, Last Name.

Mother’s Full Name: Since it’s not indicated whether it’s asking for my mothers maiden name or not, I just typed in my mothers full name after she got married (using my dad’s last name). Same format as with my fathers full name.

Address and Telephone Number in Taiwan: I booked an accommodation with Booking.com and chose the pay at the hotel option. This way I don’t really have to pay for it right after booking. The good thing about it is that I can cancel my reservation without any charges on my credit card provided that I do it 2 days before the booking date. So I entered the address and telephone number from the voucher.

Email: This is very important as they will be sending you the confirmation email to your email address so make sure that you are typing your email address correctly.

Step 5: This is the part where you will enter you passport information, purpose of travel in Taiwan and your arrival/departure in Taiwan.

Details of your contact in Taiwan: I typed N/A in all fields under this part.

Step 6: I answered NO to all questions in this part. Please read each questions and answer honestly. Though I don’t think that one will ever answer yes to these questions. But…who knows..

Step 7: Enter the date of application. I answered NO to the following questions.

Step 8: Read the Acknowledgement and click on I Agree.

Step 9: Take note of the Application No. as you will be needing it to follow up on your application, if needed. Click on Process eVisa button.

NOTE: There will be a confirmation page after you click on Process eVisa. Review the information you’ve entered. Make sure all the data is correct. You cannot edit any misspelled/wrong information in this part of the application. If you have made an error, before paying, you must submit another form. You will also be asked to enter your email address again. So please ensure that you are typing your email address correctly.

Step 10: This part is for payment page. The total amount that I paid was NTD1632 or PHP2767.45 (based on the current forex rate).

Step 11: You will be redirected to this page. Enter you credit card details

Please take note that the only mode of payment for E-Visa application is through credit card. If you don’t have a credit card, you may use a family member’s or friend’s credit card with their consent.

Step 12: CONGRATULATIONS!! This is the last and final step of the application process. This part shows the payment status.

You will be receiving an automated confirmation email about your payment and application. Now all you have to do is wait and pray that it’ll be approved! E-Visa application takes 3 business days.

In my case, I didn’t have to wait for 3 business days coz just 2 hours right after I applied I received an email that my application is already approved. Hooray!

You might notice the time difference between the application confirmation email and decision email. For some reason, my gmail is using a different timezone (please refer to the picture below) hence the different dates on the screenshots above.

So there you have it! Thank goodness to this E-Visa process, I didn’t have to go to TECO’s office, endure the horrible traffic situation in Makati and wait in line to process my application. In just less than 10 minutes I was able to submit my application and in less than 24 hours I got approved! No other documents asked. It may be different on your case though so don’t get your hopes too high that you’ll be approved in less than 24 hours. Even me didn’t really think that it’ll be approved that fast. As I have said the processing usually takes 3 business. So after submitting your application just be patient, relax and pray. But Taiwan Visa application isn’t as strict as with the US or Europe though so there is a high chance that you’ll get your visa application approved.

Now I’m excited for September 25th for my trip to Taiwan. Hope to see you there. I’ll be writing my itinerary soon so watch out and don’t forget to like my facebook page The Travelers Luggage and subscribe.

For more questions about Taiwan Visa application, please visit TECO’s FAQ page.

UPDATE 09/06/207

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

I received a lot if inquiries after publishing this post so due to frequently asked questions, I have decided to sum them all up here.

Do I need to have a Visa from other countries before applying for an E-Visa?
No. You can apply for an E-Visa even if you don’t have any visas from other countries. However, if you have Visa from countries like Japan, Korea, NZ, US, UK or any Schengen countries you are not required to apply for a Taiwan Visa. Just apply for a Travel Authorization Certificate for free. Apply here. For more questions about Travel Authorization Certificate application please check here.

I have a Visa from Japan, Korea, NZ, US, UK or any Schengen countries. Do I still need to apply for a Taiwan E-Visa?
No. Please refer to the answer on the question above.

Do I need to submit any supporting documents (COE, ITR, Bank Cert) upon E-Visa application?
No. Supporting documents are not required upon E-Visa application. However, you might wanna ready those documents as the immigration officers (both here in the PH or Taiwan) might ask those, so just have them prepared in case you’ll be asked.

How much do I need to pay for my E-Visa?
As mentioned above it’s NTD1632 or PHP2767.45 (depending on the forex rate).

I don’t have a Credit Card can I pay using other methods?
No. The only mode of payment for E-Visa application is through credit card. If you don’t have one you may use a family member’s or friend’s credit card with their consent.

I’m travelling with my friend/husband. Do we need to apply for an E-Visa each?
YES! Someone asked me this so I have to post it here for the sake of those who might asked the same question.

How Long is the Processing for E-Visa?
3 business days. But in most cases it’s less than that. In my case, I got the approval 2 hours after applying.

I didn’t receive the confirmation email after paying. What to do?
Don’t fret. Check your Spam/Junk folder. Still not seeing the email? Call TECO.

April 15 2017

Island Hopping and Dolphin Watching in Panglao, Bohol

Jayson Bohol, Bohol Island Hopping, Boholtravelguide, Panglao Beach, Panglao Bohol, Philippines, Snorkeling 0

Aside from the beautiful geological formation, old churches and river cruise, Bohol is also famous for its white-sand beaches. Alona Beach in Panglao Island is one of the famous places in Bohol especially for those who are looking for a sun and sea combo. White sand beaches, crystal clear water and party-all-night life are just some of the fun and lovely things that Alona has to offer. I would say that it’s very much like Boracay but I find Alona’s white sand much finer than Boracay’s and the crowd isn’t as much as Boracay. Though both islands are uniquely beautiful on their own ways and I love em both.

Bohol definitely have many things to offer especially for the diving enthusiast or those who loves snorkeling or go on a dolphin watching and Island Hopping. You can rent a boat from Alona Beach and go on a Dolphin watching and island hopping. Balicasag and Virgin Islands are the two common islands included in the island hopping tour.

We signed up on a package tour during our 3-day trip to Bohol and Dolphin-Whale Watching and Island Hopping was our activity on our first day. Our driver fetched us from the Inn at around 5:00AM. We boarded on an L300 Van from Tagbilaran to Panglao Island. We were the only guests inside the van (plus the driver) so we asked Kuya driver if there will be other guests but he said no, this is a private tour and I will be your driver for your whole 3-day tour here in Bohol. We were amazed! We thought that it would be a group tour but it turned out to be a private one. Kudos to Bridgeway Travel and Tours!

We reached Alona Beach in Panglao Island at around 6:00AM, we head straight to the beach and Kuya driver introduced us to the owner of the boat. Again we were expecting that we’re gonna be joining a different group in the boat for the tour but it turned out to be a private island hopping tour again, haha. It was a 10-15 seater boat and we were the only guests (plus the 2 boatman).

DOLPHIN WATCHING

First on our itinerary was the Dolphin and Whale watching. I was actually thinking that it might be a little late but as per the boatman, the dolphins usually show up around 6:00 to 7:00 AM. I was excited as our boat heads closer to the area where the dolphins usually are. There were already few boats in the area when we arrived. We spent few minutes looking for dolphins to show up but unfortunately no one showed. The boatman told us that there’s gonna be no dolphins because of the rough waves. Later that day we found out that there was an earthquake in Surigao City so maybe the dolphins went somewhere else. I was sad but then there was really nothing that I can do so we just decided to proceed to our island hopping activity.

BALICASAG ISLAND

There were only two islands included on our tour and first island on our list was the Balicasag Island which was near the dolphin watching area. This is also where you can go on snorkeling. From our boat we transferred to a small boat which took us to the snorkeling area. Snorkeling gear is available for rent at P150 each, much better if you have your own snorkeling gear though. One more thing, don’t forget to bring some bread! There were different kind of fishes in the snorkeling area. I enjoyed feeding them, they were seemed nice and cute, lol.

After few minutes of swimming with the fishes, we head back to the island and looked for a place to eat, we were starving as we haven’t had any breakfast that day due to the early call time. Good thing there were stores and eatery in the island. The prices of the food are not that backpacker friendly but given the fact that we were on an island and a tourist spot, it’s expected. We ordered shrimp sinigang. We waited for around 10-15 minutes as our order was freshly prepared and cooked. One of the perks of living in an island is that you get to have fresh seafood.

TIP: Given the fact the almost everything in Balicasag Island are expensive, one thing that I can suggest that might probably save you money is too bring your own food. A night before your island hopping, go to Tagbilaran Market and buy all ingredients needed for your desired menu. When in the island, you can look for a person and ask for “paluto”. They will cook your desired food for a certain fee.

VIRGIN ISLAND

Virgin Island was the last stop on our island hopping activity. After feasting on the shrimp sinigang, we went back to the boat and head straight to Virgin Island. It is known as Virgin Island because nobody lives there and it sinks during high tide leaving only the palm trees visible. Virgin Island is an attraction because of its long stretch white sand beach during low tide. Aside from this, there’s really nothing more that you can do in the island. There’s no snorkeling area and the water is too shallow and full of underwater grass but there are parts where you can swim and relax.

Some locals are setting up stalls/tents in the island everyday selling different kinds of fishes, shells, sea urchins and a lot more. Some are selling bananaque and Coconut Juice. Coconut juice here are way much cheaper than in Balicasag Island.

HOW TO GET TO PANGLAO ISLAND

Island Hopping and Dolphin Watching are usually offered as a tour package by travel agencies and hotels. This is the easiest and convenient way, so you might want to arrange this prior to you trip or ask the hotel staff.

If you didn’t have enough time to sign up on a package tour and your hotel doesn’t offer this tour, here’s how you can reach Panglao Island. From Tagbilaran City take a tricycle and go to Dao Integrated Terminal (right beside the Island City Mall) and board a jeepney bound for Panglao Island. The fare is around P20 (one way) and travel time may take up to an hour. Tell the driver/conductor to drop you off at Alona Beach. Take note though that jeepneys will wait for the jeep to be filled with passengers before starting the trip and it may take up to an hour or more.

Another option is to rent a taxi (which is quite expensive) or a habal-habal (motorcycle for rent) which will take you directly to Panglao Island.

WHAT TO BRING

You’ll be out in the sun the whole day so make sure to prepare and bring these with you:

* Water ( at least 1-2 liters)
* Sunblock
* Shades
* Hat/Cap/Umbrella
* Towel/Sarong
* Snorkeling gear (if you have one but you can also rent)
* Packed food
* Waterproof Bag/pouch to protect your electronic devices from getting wet (click HERE for affordable dry bags)
* Waterproof Camera to capture your underwater moments (looking for action camera? Click HERE)

April 8 2017

Loboc River Cruise in Bohol, Philippines

Jayson Bohol, Boholtravelguide, ChocolateHills, local, Philippines, Visayas 0

Loboc River Cruise is probably in your must-do-list if you are planning to go to Bohol. It is one of the famous tourist destinations in Bohol, Philippines. Loboc River is known mainly because of its emerald green and clean water and of course the famous river cruise. While cruising the river you will also see the famous Loboc Church which is more than 400 years old, one of the oldest churches here in the Philippines. Though it was severely damaged by an earthquake last 2013, it still hasn’t lost its charm and solemnity.

We took a countryside tour during our last day on our 3-day Bohol escapade and Loboc River Cruise is one of the stops. Our driver, Kuya Mario, drove us there at around 1:00PM hoping that the crowd might have dissipated and we could get a ticket easily, but we were wrong. Maybe because we went on a weekend or the place is just too touristy that that crowd was really overwhelming. It was my first time and I was excited to try the infamous Loboc River Cruise so waiting wasn’t really a big deal. Kuya Mario secured a queue number and since we want to make the most of our time, we decided to go to the Butterfly Sanctuary, Prony the Python and Bamboo Hanging Bridge while waiting for our turn.

Looking for a place to stay in Bohol? [Click HERE]

We came back after an hour and the crowd was still jam-packed though we were a bit closer on the queue. We waited for more or less 15 minutes until we were called. We were very hungry that time and all we want to do is eat, good thing it was a buffet lunch. The ticket costs Php450.00 per person, that includes both the ticket to the boat and for the buffet lunch.

Different nationalities were on board and we were seated on a table with other guests. The food was already loaded and prepared and since it was past the lunch time, the staff told us that we can start eating while other guests are boarding. The food was the usual Filipino dishes and desserts, nothing really special but since I was really hungry it made me think that I was feasting the best food ever!

The cruise started after all guests have boarded. By the time the raft reaches the middle of the cruise, we were done with our lunch, which was actually a good thing because we were able to enjoy the moment while the raft glides on the emerald-green water of Loboc River . I couldn’t help but appreciate how beautiful the river was and I was amazed on how they were able to keep the water clean. While we were sailing on the river, a live band was performing singing different old country songs entertaining the guests on board. I was actually quite amazed that they can sing songs in different languages, like Korean or Mandarin.

I noticed that there were few houses located near the river. There were also some tourists diving and swimming in the river while the locals live their lives as they normally do. Our boat stopped in front of a hut on the riverbank at the end of the cruise. There were group of locals (children and adults) wearing a traditional Filipino attire while performing different traditional Filipino songs and folk dances. Guests are free and encourage to sing and dance with them and of course donation is very much appreciated.

As the boat turned around to make it’s way back to where we came from, we saw a small falls. Busay Falls is what the locals call it, it’s just a small falls, nothing so extraordinary.

By the time we reached the port, the ticketing counter is already closed and the overwhelming crowd was gone. Kuya Mario told us that Loboc River Cruise had a day and night cruise before but due to the intense earthquake last 2013, light posts along the river was damaged so the local management had to suspend the night cruise.

Getting There

Loboc River Cruise is one of the famous tourists destinations in Bohol and is very much accessible via all means of land transportation. If you are coming from Manila, the fastest way to get to Bohol is via plane. If you are coming from Cebu, multiple fast ferry’s offer a daily trip to Bohol, vice versa.

From Tagbilaran airport, take a tricycle to the bus terminal and board a bus to Loboc. You can also rent a car or take a taxi to Loboc. If you are in a tour (mostly offered by hotels and travel agencies) Loboc River Cruise is one of the stops in the Countryside Tour.

April 3 2017

Okada Manila Unveils the World’s Largest Multi-color Dancing Fountain in the Philippines

Jayson Casino, local, Manila, Paranaque, Philippines 0

Photo credits: Okada Manila Website

Okada Manila, the newest addition to the growing hotels and casinos in the Philippines , unveiled it’s spectacular dancing fountain to the public last March 31st 2017. Hosted by no other than, our Queen P, 2015 Miss Universe Pia Wutzbach, it was a night full of jaw-dropping dancing fountain show and fireworks display.

Guests performers who joined the grand celebration were the international pop music sensation Robin Thicke, World of Wonders, Asia’s Got Talent contestant Gerphil Flores and the Manila Philharmonic Orchestra.

Free shuttle service was provided from SM MOA, in front of Pet Express which took us directly to Okada Manila. The bus was fully air-conditioned, with CR and each seats were equipped with a tablet loaded with movies, songs and games and can be switch to either English or Chinese language. It only took us around 5 minutes to reach Okada from MOA and the shuttle dropped us at the Fountain foyer.

Here’s what the shuttle bus looks like.

A tablet loaded with movies, songs and games for each passengers.

An en-suite comfort room

We went through security checks before entering the building and they even had an X-ray machine, for the bags. We presented our e-tickets and we were given an Okada commemorative token.

The event started around 7:45PM which is 45 minutes late from the scheduled time. I was a bit disappointed, knowing that it’s a Japanese-owned company, I was expecting that the show will start at exactly 7:00PM. Also the stage was located on the other side of the fountain and only facing the VIP’s. Well, we only had a GA ticket so who am I to complain.

The show started with a performance from Gerphil Flores, she sang a couple of opera songs. Next was the The World of Wonders then last was Robin Thicke. He sang some of his songs including the famous Blurred Lines.

The Okada Manila Commemorative Token

The last part and the highlight of the night was the unveiling of the grand multi-color dancing fountain in Adele’s Set Fire to the Rain song, it is the world’s largest multicolored dancing fountain. It was indeed spectacular and truly amazing. We were all amazed and entertained. The fountain is as expensive as 50 Olympic-size pools and costs US$30 million, surely competes those in Dubai’s Burj Khalifa and Las Vegas Bellagio. It is equipped with advanced underwater robots, more than two thousand lights, dozens of Hi-Fi speakers and more than 700 high-power jets that can shoot water behind the height of the Okada Manila building.

After almost 2 minutes of fountain show the event ended with a fireworks display. The sky was illuminated with elegant and jaw-dropping fireworks, what an extravagant way to cap the show off.

After the show, we went inside the Casino to have a look and play some games. Before entering the Casino, the security officer stopped me and asked for my age. When I told him how old I am he didn’t believe me and asked for a valid ID with my birth date on it, haha. Do I look like a 16 year old kid? But anyhow I took it as a compliment, haha at least I know that I look younger than my age. We have to be a member first before playing so since membership is free, we decided got ourselves an Okada membership card and since we watched the Fountain show we were given 200 free play for the slot-machines.

Inspired by their Spring Theme. Cherry Blossoms

Look at the crowd heading to the Casino area

Huge interior designs

Okada Manila indeed know how to make a grand, elegant and world class opening. It was a night full of amazing show. The Fountain is Okada Manila’s bold stand in creating a global icon. It is open to the public everyday, for free; Mondays – Sundays 6PM to 10PM with an hour interval.