#cebu day trip

[joshleyson]

THIS IS: SIARGAO ✨

December film dump 🎞️

Growing up in Mindanao for almost 2 decades and never actually being able to traverse the picturesque landscapes in the eastern part of the island is something that I know I have to break before the year ends. So I did.

I flew from Manila to Cebu so early in the morning to catch a connecting flight to Siargao by noon. Traveling to Siargao was a lot of firsts for me. Not having to go to every detail but when the plane was about to take off to Siargao, we were all offloaded due to the bad weather on the island. Fortunately, instead of having to fly back to Manila, the airline was kind enough to take me to a nearby hotel in Cebu, all expenses paid including food, transportation, and next-day ticket. It was an unexpected staycation which surprisingly I enjoyed.

Coming from a very tiring day at work and then going to the airport, I felt like I really needed this quiet time, and I was able to check in to this lavish hotel all by myself while waiting for my flight the next day. Also, I had a great night as well in Cebu catching up with one of my long-time friends and her beaux. I went back to my hotel around 3 in the morning because there’s just so many things to catch up and I really missed my homie so much. Keyword: low-maintenance friendships.

So the day finally came, and I was able to land safely on the island of Siargao. Right off the bat on my first night, I had a lovely dinner with my travel friends slash buddies at work and we went to a bar, and danced the night away which to me serves as a prelude to the great experience this vibrant community had in stored for me as a Mindanaoan that have never set foot beyond the confines of Zamboanga and western Mindanao.

We spent our days being on the road which to me was such a release. Being able to smell the fresh ocean breeze while blasting our favorite Y2K songs in the car and relying on Waze or Google Maps for our next destination, to me, makes the trip so much fun because of the spontaneity and unpredictability that it brings. We went island hopping, danced in the boat, swam on open waters, ate our hearts out, moved from one accommodation to another, and I tried surfing for the first time! I never thought I would enjoy the experience because it was raining lightly at that time and the waves were so big it could easily engulf me, but man, best day ever!!!! I fell on the surfing board and slammed my body on the rushing waves several times but being able to stand on the surfboard for the first time was such a liberating experience. A little bit of a stretch, but it was and I will try it again once I go back to Siargao.

☾

I flew back to Cebu and then to Manila to catch one of my friend’s wedding and luckily I made it with no delay. Looking at the pictures that I got to develop from a Fuji film camera that I brought with me on the island, I am reminded again of the incredible healing power of what it’s like to try new things, be with nature, and just breathe. Knowing that the year is about to end in a couple of weeks, I felt so blessed to have that opportunity to break the complicated rhythm of corporate life and to disconnect for a moment. 

After 3 weeks, I get to fly back to Boracay to celebrate New Year’s Eve. So many epic moments that I am also grateful for which I may save for the future but nevertheless, my last month of 2023 was such a banger and I hope it always feels that way.

By the way, I’m writing all these on my iPhone because I’m too tired to get up and open my MacBook, so I appreciate you for hanging with me this far. So that’s it for 2023!

Simply put, I just want to say Happy Holidays to you and your loved ones, and may 2024 be as effervescent as your hopes and dreams for the future.

J.

(December, 2023)

(Photos were shot using Fujifilm Simpleace 35 mm camera + iPhone 15 Pro Max)

FOLLOW ME: Instagram/TikTok/Twitter: joshleyson

(Music by Grammy nominee, Victoria Monét. All rights belong to her and her publishers. For personal and non-commercial use only. Stream her great catalogue on Spotify and Apple Music.)

[hazygrains]

September 21, 2024 This will be the first part of my travel story as I want to document everything that happened during our stay, and it might get too long for one post. For this entry, I’ll be sharing the events of our first day.

Last weekend, Asis and I went on our first trip abroad together. While it wasn’t the first country I’ve ever visited—my earlier trips were when I was seven, and I can barely remember them—I like to officially think of this as my first real trip abroad. I had wanted to visit Hanoi, Vietnam, but I couldn’t find an affordable fare for October or November. I was working with a budget since my friend, Jhaey, generously gifted us the money for an international flight within Asia as a wedding gift.

Anyway, I remembered that Asis wanted to visit Thailand for its food, and it just so happened that Cebu Pacific had a seat sale at the time. So, voilà—Bangkok, Thailand, it was!

Read more

[andrbllts]

Life on the Move: The Joy of Travelling Beyond the Tourist Trail

Play this song while you read this post.

Hi everyone. Been awhile.

A lot of people talk about wanting to travel. Honestly, who wouldn’t want to explore all that the world has to offer? I certainly do! But travel means different things to everyone, and there’s no right or wrong way to define it. My version might just be a little different from yours.

Lately, I’ve been swamped with work. I’m actually managing 80 people, with 20 reps in each class every day, while interviewing candidates for the next wave of classes. Add in my back-and-forth trips between Manila and Quezon twice a week, and you’ve got a recipe for a sleep-deprived hustle. Yet, planning my upcoming travels has become my lifeline—a much-needed escape and something I genuinely love to do, alongside earning and saving.

I’ve just booked three international flights in the next five months and started sorting out work permit, visa, and finances to kick off my new life in a country I’ve chosen to settle in for good. It’s a lot to handle, and of course, I want to cherish my remaining time here in the Philippines with the people I love and doing the things I enjoy—like traveling.

When I say “traveling,” I’m talking about going outside the country. I’m not a huge fan of local trips; those feel ordinary since my family often visits relatives in Davao and Cebu. It’s easy and routine, and I crave a bit more adventure.

As I plan my itinerary, I find myself pondering where to go and what to see. Booking those three international flights in one day was fueled by my desire for peace and serenity. I want to clear my mind of everything that weighs me down and rediscover genuine happiness. That’s why I’m looking for places that are quiet and enchanting, where I can see things I’d never encounter in my everyday life. I want to fly and create memories that will leave a lasting impression on my heart.

I want to craft a life of travel.

When I say I want to travel, I’m not talking about hitting every tourist trap or buying a tacky souvenir t-shirt. I don’t want to just stroll down main streets or eat at every popular restaurant that pops up on Google. I’m not interested in staying at fancy resorts or following local tour guides around. I’m here for something deeper.

What I really want is to get lost—not in a “my GPS led me astray” kind of way, but in a beautiful, wandering sense. I want to soak in my surroundings, uncover hidden treasures unique to each place, and discover cozy coffee shops and quaint bookstores. I want to trek to old landmarks in the mountains and embrace as many new experiences as I can.

I envision packing a backpack with just the essentials, sleeping in tents, hostels, or even my car as I roam through different towns in various countries. I want to crash in places that few people have ever heard of. My goal is to turn my dreams into reality, to experience a life stripped down to simplicity, free from societal pressures and the weight of unnecessary stuff.

I yearn to meet people who are different from me yet somehow relatable. I want to dive into their cultures and understand their ways of life. Learning about their history and immersing myself in new languages excites me. I hope to find lifelong friends across the globe.

I want to be in constant awe of this planet and everything it offers. I want to witness sights I never thought possible and try experiences that have only lived in my dreams. My curiosity should grow stronger with every adventure. I want to absorb every skyline and relish the solitude of unfamiliar places.

When I return home, I don’t want to feel complete; I want to feel like I’ve left pieces of myself scattered around the world. I want to look beyond what’s in front of me and grasp the complexities of the world we inhabit. I want to satisfy my wanderlust, knowing that even if I somehow dislike the traveling life, I can always come back home.

But until I’m out there, exploring and fulfilling this desire inside me, I won’t be satisfied.

When I say I want to travel, I mean I want to experience everything. Because in the end, experiences are far more valuable than anything money can buy.

So, here’s to the adventures that await! Life is too short to stay in one place. Let’s pack our bags, hit the road, and discover the magic out there!

[robbiemd]

I have finally settled after 36++ hours of travel.

The drive that I have to endure ever f*****g time.

I recently traveled from Manila (MNL) to Puerto Princesa (PPS) via 2Go Travel, on board M/V St. Francis Xavier. It had been over 20 years since I last took a sea voyage. I used to travel this way when I was younger, often with my parents and sister, or with my grandparents and cousins. It was a more affordable option than flying. At that time, budget airlines like Cebu Pacific and AirAsia didn't fly to Puerto Princesa, and Philippine Airlines tickets were quite expensive (over PHP 3,000 for a roundtrip fare in the 1990s).

Fun part was still seeing these kinds of sceneries.

It was the perfect time for a trip by sea. If I'd taken a flight, I would have been delayed by 1-2 days due to the global Microsoft glitch a few days ago. The voyage was supposed to leave at 7 pm but got delayed for five hours. Five hours isn't too bad compared to 1-2 days.

Aboard M/V SFX.

Sea travel alone bored me quite a bit. There was no one to talk to, and all I wanted to do was lie down on my bed, read, study, and take notes. A few strangers tried to talk to me, but I was never good at small talk, so the conversations were terminated after a few exchanges. Apparently, sea travel was a lot better when I was a kid.

I arrived at PPS around 3:30 in the morning of yesterday after a 24-hour travel and a 3-hour stop at the Port of Coron.

Port of Coron. 20 July 2024

After more than a month, I met with my dad and mom so I could get my car. I noticed that my father’s legs have progressed to swelling and oedema, which started more than 6 months ago. I’ve already put him in diuretics and had him undergo tests for several tests to rule out heart, lung, and kidney conditions. Everything was fine except for a mild pulmonary regurgitation on his 2D echo. His Ejection Fraction was good. His AV duplex a few months ago was normal as well. In other words, all tests were inconclusive.

So today, I decided to start him on anticoagulants. I should have started him earlier but DOACs are expensive as hell.

“Iinumin mo ba ito kahit 92 pesos per tab?” I asked him.

“Oo, kung kailangan talaga.”

“Sige, ipa-labs muna kita. I need baseline labs para malaman kung pwede sa’yo yung gamot.”

Sometimes, treating family members can be more challenging than treating regular patients. I'm not sure whether it's due to non-compliance or the comfort of being able to share everything, including bizarre symptoms.

See you again next time, parents.

That's them in front of me.

22 July 2024 3:02 AM El Nido, Philippines

[aezuria]

HI STELLAAAA i wanna hear ab ur vacation how was it!!!! only if u want to ofc i love hearing ab ppls vacays sm 😚😚

SIAAAAA omg ofc i want to !!! 🤭

okay so first we stayed at my relatives place?? its like land that was passed down in our extended fam and its a whole alley of houses so we stayed in an empty one !

then we took a side trip to japan and OMG i took so many cute pics (abt that digicam... i barely used it oops 😭😭) cs i didnt wanna keep taking it out and it took a whie to turn on and i js used my phone LMAO also i did not see airport guy when i was coming back from japan ☹️☹️

after that we went back to the ph and went to cebu and bohol w my cousin !! we went island hopping and snorkeling and it was SO FUN except it was low tide so i kept hitting my feet on the rocks and when i tell u it HURT

ok so this part is kinda funny but it was TERRIBLE when it happened 😬 sooo at bohol we stayed at this cute beachside resort but like as soon as i got there i was so tired cs we had to wake up SO SO EARLY like 3AM bro and then i got food poisoning or smth and it was so hot and humid and it was js the worst thing EVER 0/10 would not recommend i threw up like 5 times in 2 days

but after i was still feeling kinda iffy but it was the last day so i went swimming and it lowk healed me LMAO didnt throw up after that 😘😘

then we went back to our place in the ph and did some last minute shopping at the mega mall (like a day before we were abt to leave leave) and i bought SO MUCH i did a whole haul and everythinggg 😍

and YEA sorry thats like a whole essay 😭😭 how is YOUR summer going???

[foodiefootprints]

📍Cebu City, South (1/2)

5/5⭐️

📍City: Santo Niño church, Magellans cross, La vie parisienne (tent) and House of lechon

📍Mountain: Temple of leah, Top of cebu and La vie parisienne in the sky

A 9-Day Trip to Discover Cebu's Beauty. We began on an unforgettable adventure in Cebu from north to south with the goal to make every moment "sulit" (worth it)! The idea of a summer vacation in Cebu had long piqued my interest, so when my cousin asked me to join her solo trip, I immediately agreed. Since we both knew how to drive, navigating Cebu's hectic downtown streets in our rental car gave us a sense of freedom and discovery. We took in the vivid city lights and immersed ourselves in the bustling environment. Cebu's charm lies not just from its magnificent scenery, but also from the fascinating urban experiences it offers.

Stay tuned to see the 2/2 of this trip, as we left our footprints behind!

[binibchielq]

Last year in March 14, I was getting home from my trip to Cebu. In the airport and flight back home, I drew this,

https://www.tumblr.com/binibchielq/711772769919057920/wormed-his-heart-would-you-still-love-me-if-i?source=share

My first ever Rivamika post on this account. I marked this day as the first day I officially became an open Rivamika shipper, the first time I went back to drawing after a long time of no inspiration or motivation to draw, from that day I never knew how capable I am with my skills just for these two characters. Rivamika saved my life and I'm grateful for this ship, fandom, and the supportive people here. <3

I am currently working on new art and I hope I would be able to post them, I'm just very busy now.

[not-so-rosyyy]

I am going to the philippines for about a month is there any places you would recommend. For the first two weeks we'll be based in manilla and then we might visit some other places in the country.

hi! sorry for answering this late. I'd like to say that Metro Manila is certainly not on the list of places I would recommend for tourists 😅 I love this city, it’s my birthplace and hometown, but I personally think the Philippines is best experienced outside of the capital.

still, since you say you're staying here for two weeks, these are the places around the metro that you can visit:

If you’re into art and museums:

National Museum of Fine Arts / National Museum of Natural History - they're close by each other so it’s possible to visit in one day

Ayala Museum - love their exhibits and dioramas

Pinto Art Museum - best for contemporary art; 1-2hrs from Manila depending on traffic

If you’re into culture and history:

Binondo Chinatown - oldest Chinatown in the world. pretty cool melting pot of chinese, filipino and western cultures. cheap food.

Intramuros – if you want a taste of the country during our Spanish colony era (NOTE: try to look for tours of Binondo and Intramuros so you’ll get the full experience and context into our history)

If you're into the nightlife

Poblacion, Makati

BGC

If you’re into shopping

Glorietta

Greenbelt

Mall of Asia

SM Aura

Greenhills

outside of Metro Manila, there's a loooot (and I mean, A LOT) of places to visit because we literally have 7,000+ islands lol. these are, I would say, a few of the easier ones for tourists to go to and enjoy:

Palawan – crystal clear waters, hidden lagoons, seafood. the landscape views here are BREATHTAKING, I swear you won’t regret it. go to either Coron or El Nido if you do choose to visit.

Siargao – lovely, laidback island globally known for surfing. the people and vibe here are perfect for those who would like to take a step back from the daily grind.

Bohol – white beaches, adventurous activities, natural wonders. you can find the Chocolate Hills and the Tarsier (also known as the world’s second smallest primates) Sanctuary here

Cebu – this province is huge so there’s lots of things (diving, whale shark watching, canyoneering: you name it) and islands to go to.

Boracay - okay, so this is perhaps the most popular beach destination here, so it's definitely more expensive than other places. the upside is it's also more developed and tourist-friendly (the nightlife on the island is great!)

there are pristine beaches and magnificent views here almost everywhere you go, and all the places I listed above are ripe with those. the Philippines is beautiful, and I hope you're able to discover even a portion of that beauty during your stay. enjoy your trip here!

*all photos in this post are NOT mine, i just stole them from google lol. credits go to all their respective owners*

[jbcabret]

A little proof of life update:

I spent 4 days in Cebu to celebrate my 29th birthday last August 14. It was probably the happiest birthday celebration I've ever had in years. Since it was going to be my 29th, I insisted on celebrating it after ignoring that day for years.

On my vacation, I have finally met Clifford and Toytoy in the flesh! And I finally had an out-of-Gensan trip with Enzo!

It was an almost perfect vacation but, as usual, it was ruined by my incessant hunger for my ex's (my best friend's really) attention. Joke's on me for waiting for him to leave a note. When I know damn well that in our 5 years, he's never remembered my birthday. Now that we're exes, why would he care? And I hated myself for caring at all. I looked like a loser crying in the passenger seat during heavy traffic.

I really should ask my doctor to increase my meds' dosage, huh?

Still, I'm glad I enjoyed it. I already miss them, honestly. Now back to my sad life.

[gemstone-gynoid]

NJ > car drive 4 hours up to NY JFK airport> airport then flight from NY to Korea like 16 hours > korea to cebu philippines 4 hours > cebu ferry to smaller island 3 hours > ferry port town to grandparent's house on the other side of the island by car ride 3 hours.

then the reverse for all of them as i return home. i do not want to sit in a chair like this for so long again. at the least, while in cebu we stayed in a hotel for a few days and enjoyed being in the malls there while we waited for our parent to do stuff. then stayed at grandparent's for 2 days.

40 hours just in airplanes. 60 hours in total in transit in under a week. not counting shorter taxi trips. americans should enjoy philippine motorcycle taxis sometime theyre great.

pretty much every one is different. but its a motorcycle with attached covered seating.

[shalini-yadav45]

Unveiling the Best Time to Visit Cebu

Planning a trip to Cebu, the Queen City of the South? We've got you covered with comprehensive insights on the best time to visit Cebu. Whether you're into stunning beaches, rich cultural heritage, or thrilling adventures, Cebu offers a myriad of experiences all year round. But to make the most of your visit, timing is key. Read on to discover the optimal time to explore this enchanting destination.

Peak Season: December to May

December to May marks the peak tourist season in Cebu. During these months, the weather is at its finest, with sunny days and minimal rainfall. The dry season, characterized by clear skies and balmy temperatures, creates ideal conditions for beach hopping, island hopping, and outdoor activities.

Off-Peak Season: June to November

June to November brings the rainy season to Cebu. While some travelers may shy away from visiting during this time, the off-peak season has its own charm and advantages. With fewer crowds and lower accommodation rates, it's an excellent opportunity for budget-conscious travelers to explore Cebu's attractions without breaking the bank. Plus, the lush landscapes and occasional showers add a refreshing touch to the scenery.

Festivals and Events

One of the highlights of visiting Cebu is experiencing its vibrant festivals and events. From the grand celebration of Sinulog Festival in January to the colorful Kadaugan sa Mactan in April, there's always something exciting happening in the city. Planning your trip around these festivities will not only immerse you in the local culture but also add an extra layer of excitement to your Cebu adventure.

Best Time for Diving and Snorkeling

For diving enthusiasts, the best time to visit Cebu is during the dry season from December to May. During this period, the waters are crystal clear, offering excellent visibility for underwater exploration. Popular dive sites like Moalboal, Malapascua, and Oslob are teeming with marine life, including colorful coral reefs, sea turtles, and majestic whale sharks.

Ideal Months for Beach Getaways

If you're dreaming of pristine beaches and azure waters, plan your trip to Cebu between January and April. During these months, the weather is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and indulging in water sports. From the famous White Beach in Moalboal to the secluded Bantayan Island, Cebu boasts an array of stunning beaches waiting to be explored.

Cultural Immersion Opportunities

To delve into Cebu's rich cultural heritage, consider visiting during the Sinulog Festival in January. This annual event celebrates the island's conversion to Christianity and features colorful street parades, traditional dances, and religious processions. It's a fantastic opportunity to witness the vibrant spirit and hospitality of the Cebuano people.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the best time to visit Cebu depends on your preferences and interests. Whether you prefer sunny skies and bustling crowds or tranquil beaches and cultural experiences, Cebu has something for everyone year-round. By considering factors such as weather, festivals, and activities, you can plan a memorable trip to this tropical paradise. For more information click here

[pjigsoul]

One of the most unforgettable trip I have experience, which is in Water World Cebu, all I can say about this trip is the bond and the memories that I will never forget. Despite the heat, the beautiful scenery and endless entertainment experience made the trip unforgettable and thrill.

It was my niece 5th birthday but it feels like it was my 10th birthday, because it made me feel like a child again. One of the first thing I did was to get a salbabida (Philippine life preserver) and relaxed at the Lazy River I just drifted along the water and watch the view sights of the water park.

The second thing I do was to get into the wave pool which is very fun experience for me, there are so many people, and there are also many foreigner who visit the place. I also make a lot of new friends at my travel which is Filipino kids and Foreigners who is really friendly.

As the day went on, I couldn't help but notice how hot it was getting. But the sun didn't stop me from enjoying the park. I cooled off because of the park's wave pool, and it was the perfect way to escape the heat for a bit. The waves were so big and fun, and I found myself riding them again and again.

One of the most highlights of my trip was spending time with my family and with my big brother. We enjoyed the trip, swam and rode the slides together, and it made the experience much more special to me. We even try the 100ft slide which is very fun and scary at the same time. I was nervous at first but when my little brother go first, I feel ashamed as a big brother so I take the challenge bravely even though it is my first time trying that slide. Only few people tried it because it was a very scary slide, it will not just make you slide but it will suddenly drop you off wich is the scariest part but I still tried it. It was something I will always remember, and I will cherish it forever.

Overall, my trip to the Water World Cebu was an unforgettable experience. The beauty of the park and endless entertainment options made my day more enjoyable. I had a blast with my family, and if I was given another chance I want to go back and make more memories. If you're looking for a fun day out, and a best experience trip, Water World Cebu is a must-visit place.

[staywithmesana]

First Thailand trip. First out of the country trip with just friends. First Twice concert.

It was surreal. It was epic.

As of this writing, both weekends with Twice are already over and I'm struggling to express my feelings.

There has to be a name to capture this jumble of feelings, right? Cause it has been swirling around me virtually every minute of the last few days as I reflect on my experiences with Twice and gently re-enter the real world.

════════════════════════════════════════════

THE DECISION.

When I first discovered more about Twice, it was a pandemic. "More" since I previously knew them through my great friend Pat, but I never had the opportunity to listen to their music.

It was during More and More when I first saw Sana, and gosh, I know I'm going to love her for the rest of my life. It was as if I had been transported elsewhere, and I craved more of her. I was smitten by her eyes, her tone, and everything about her, especially her orange hair.

I knew I'd do everything to see and hear her and Twice sing live, and I finally got what I'd been hoping for the last four years when I watched the girl herself perform at Impact Arena.

The Ready to Be tour was announced in February, and I was both excited and nervous about whether the Philippines would be included, as they had only announced Part I at the time. Until they announced a few months later that our country will be included in the trip!

I think it was around that time that Hannah introduced me to Rina, and we all agreed that we’d buy VIP tickets. But of course, not everything will go according to plan.

We were only able to obtain Lower Box tickets for both days in the Philippines, which was devastating because we were unable to secure our preferred seats. All the plans for banners and signs that we would show Twice went down the drain. It was then that they decided to plan a trip to Thailand to see Twice. I'm not going to lie; at first, I was skeptical. I was unsure whether my savings were enough, and I am anxious about staying days out of the country with just friends (I’m blaming my introvertness!).

A couple of thoughts came to my mind:

What will happen during our trip? Will I fit in well? Will I be awkward? What if I mess up? What if they don't like me?

──────────────────── ♡❤♡ ────────────────────

But there's just this excitement in my heart that urges me to try new things. I want to try to go to a place where my soul can grow, a place where I can get out of my comfort zone and explore different aspects of myself.

So I said, “Fuck it, I want to see Sana up close!”

──────────────────── ♡❤♡ ────────────────────

The Thailand Ready to Be in Thailand concert ticket sales arrived, and we were worried because this would be our last chance to see them in the VIP section. In comparison to the Philippines, the Thailand website was smooth and simple to use! Just a quick note to self, use a card that is accepted in Bangkok.

A couple of hiccups later, we finally got the tickets!

Relief and delight washed over me as the reality of going to another country to see Sana dawned on me.

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I felt slightly melancholy. Another wave of anxiety washed over me as I methodically planned the next trip, thinking that my sister is not going to be with me.

But I know what I want and what makes me happy. And I know that if I prioritize staying in my comfort zone, I would regret not going for the rest of my life. And I don’t want to do that to me.

Deep down inside I know that I am excited, I’m just scared that I will go there, and my head will be full of “Oh God, when is this going to be over?”

Fortunately for me, the friends I went with are the best (I'll dedicate a special section to them later).

──────────────────── ♡❤♡ ────────────────────

THAILAND & FRIENDS.

We booked tickets with Cebu Pacific Airlines, which added to our worries because the airline is notorious for canceling flights, and we won't know what to do if that happens.

And I believe that as soon as we got to the airport, all the luck showered on us, because there were no problems after that.

There were no flight delays. We had no problems with our luggage. Everyone went through immigration without incident. Everything was fine.

I was so happy.

Two extroverts and two introverts were, in my opinion, the ideal trip companions.

There was enough humor to make it extremely enjoyable and I wasn't compelled to interact all of the time because everyone respected everyone's peace and pace.

The first two people on this list were folks with whom I had never previously interacted. They are the people I have been anxious to meet, and I'm relieved that my concerns were unfounded.

Lee would fill in the gaps whenever there was dead air, loves to joke around, and loves to take great photographs, taking his fill on adventures as it was his first time out of the country. It was fun since he was there, and I had a fantastic time laughing at his shenanigans.

Rina was also an extrovert (though she insists she isn't), and I swear every time we turned around, she had made new friends (particularly at the concert hall). We instantly discussed Blackpink and Twice because we both adore both groups. Because of her it was never a dull moment. My co-water warrior, I appreciate all of our conversations and how you always include me in them. I’m glad that I got to know you!

Finally, Hannah, the mother of the group, HAHAHAHA! She truly took care of us all, from the time we booked our concert tickets, booked our airline tickets to our Airbnb accommodations and navigated our way around Thailand. She was the only one I knew from the group; but we had only gotten out twice before going to Thailand. Without her, I doubt we would have had a pleasant experience. I really enjoyed how she bargained with the locals ("There they said it's only 10 baht" iykyk) HAHAHA! We received discounts, but she purchased bracelets that were at least 20 times more expensive. Budol is real. Thank you for your assurance that everything will be well, and you are right that I did enjoy the trip! Thank you for inviting me to join you on this trip! This is an experience I will remember for the rest of my life.

Thailand has amazing food, and I have great friends, what more could you ask for, right?

I was able to have this out-of-body and amazing experience of witnessing Twice up close because of you three! And of course, visit one of the most tourist-friendly countries, Thailand. I will surely return!

I’m glad that I trusted my instincts, and that is to trust you! So many great things happened, and I would have completely missed out on all of these things had I not gone. And I’m not so sure that these things would have happened in the same way had I not been with you three.

We went anywhere we wanted. We did anything we wanted. We ate anything we wanted.

Again, thank you from the bottom of my heart.

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TWICE.

September seemed a lifetime away when we got our tickets, but it finally arrived, and on September 24th, Hannah, Rina, and I made our way to Impact Arena with our concert gear (aka our lightsticks and our hearts full of love for Twice).

We arrived early because we were used to huge queues and expected delays and mishaps.

But surprise, surprise! We finished everything in 15 minutes. From claiming the physical tickets, buying official merch to buying our lunch for the day!

We even had time to line up for the photo wall.

And of course, we would not miss the chance to kneel before Sana! :D

We lined up the queue, and since my number was 1111, we were praying hard that we could get a good spot. So, by the time we got to the gate, we were running like hell to our chosen section, and we managed to reach at least four rows after the barricade!

Remember the screenshot earlier? About our desired spot? We managed to get there. Yay!

At this point, I was getting fatigued but yet enthusiastic because the soundcheck was about to begin. My feet and legs were aching, but my heart was overjoyed.

A couple of folks were telling Rina about their Twice concert experiences. Others had the opportunity to see the girls from years ago, while some had the opportunity to attend the day before us. And as I listened to their stories, I became more excited about what was to follow. Along with the hope that Sana is feeling better, and that we get to interact with them even if it’s just a few seconds.

Soundcheck began about a minute or two after 3 p.m. And my heart was racing so hard! They're finally in front of me after a long time of anticipating seeing Twice!

At the same time, the entire VIP area went berserk, and they began to push their way to the front to have a closer look of the girls and to engage with them.

I tried to take a quick shot of them, but I was immediately stopped by the guards, and when I witnessed individuals being escorted out of the stadium, I became terrified and decided not to risk being tossed out. It was a mess, really. Someone even lost their footwear!

(credits to Rina for this screenshot):

As soon as I saw a glimpse of Sana’s beautiful wavy hair and pretty face, I forgot the pain in my legs! She really is beautiful!

But since I spent a scary amount of time watching her videos, I noticed that something's wrong. She’s not like her usual self, and mostly stayed at the left side of the stage (we were standing at the right side). Even her eyes are not glowing like before. We started to get worried because we know that their schedule is no joke, and she might be really tired at this point.

If you hadn't already guessed, yes, I am a Sana-biased fan.

So seeing that my bias was not in the mood is worrying, but I can see that she did her best, and still interacted with fans.

The soundcheck lasted around ten minutes and consisted of only three songs; by the time it was over, we were already closer to the stage due to the pushing. So, while it was frightening, it was also a blessing in disguise.

Maybe you’re wondering about my first impression with Twice members, I’ll get into that later.

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THE CONCERT.

The VCR changed without warning. Ignoring the discomfort in my legs, my excitement shot through the roof as I realized the moment I had been waiting for had arrived. The time has come for me to see and hear Twice live for the first time with their full costume.

“I’m about to hear the group that I have enjoyed listening to for years.” I thought to myself.

I loved the way they were unveiled to the stage, and then the screen showed them all lined up, looking all serious and ready to rock my world. The feeling of adrenaline and happiness rushed within me as they walked and line up for their Set Me Free performance.

Instantly felt myself sweating from the time they finished their first song, maybe because: 1. The spotlights were really intense, and 2. TWICE PERFORMANCE WERE SO HOT!

The screen showed a very lovely Kim Dahyun starting the routine, and my mind flashed back to the first time I saw her. She was truly wacky and one-of-a-kind, and I never imagined (though I really hoped) that I would watch them one day, let alone in another country.

I remembered the girl beside me trying to help me capture moments, since my hands were already hurting due to fatigue, and the people in front of me were really tall. I know that this will never reach her, but I just want to say thank you.

I Can’t Stop Me was next. I’m still in a daze, but I couldn’t help but sing along with Nayeon’s “Allami ullyeodae ring, ring-a-linga” and as soon as the pre-chorus started with Sana’s heavenly vocals singing, “Maeumsogeuroneun da algo itjanha, gyeolgugeneun seoneul neomge doel georaneun geol”, I lost it. As much as I hate to admit it, I really loved Sana’s moves during that part, and I spent an insane amount of time watching fancams and dance videos of ICSM because of that part.

And just like that, they finished their first two songs and started with their first ment. The crowd was screaming as soon as they introduced themselves.

I was just standing there, thinking to myself, “Woah, they are real people. I just saw them perform, and I’m not dreaming at all.”

The lights changed and Jeongyeon’s voice echoed throughout the whole arena, as she sang the first lines of “Go Hard”. And I know that it will be hot, and of course the red lights are not helping at all. They were in perfect sync, and you can’t help but think about how much time they spent perfecting the choreography.

This was followed by More and More, which showed a dreamy image of them sitting on ladders while performing choreography. They walked towards the extended stage halfway through the song, and seeing how hard they danced to it, followed by Moonlight Sunrise and Brave felt surreal.

It was as though they were completely different individuals on stage than their regular effervescent personas.

And then finally, Dahyun, Tzuyu, Sana, Momo and Mina exited the stage, while Chaeyoung, Jihyo, Jeongyeon and Nayeon stayed to talk to us a bit more as the first group of solo performers prepared for their stages.

I won’t go into detail about all of the performances, but I will tell you what I felt the first time that I saw the girls.

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FIRST IMPRESSIONS.

Im Nayeon.

I must admit that I understand where her confidence comes from when she confidently declares that she is the most beautiful, because she truly is pretty. And the way she hits those high notes, is like a blessing to our ears. Unfortunately I was unable to take as many videos and photos of her because I was distracted by my bias the whole time.

Yoo Jeongyeon.

I WAS STUNNED. She has such a little and lovely face that all you can do is stare at her. But her voice, oh God, her voice is so powerful that I couldn't help but regret not joining the fandom earlier and missing the opportunity to hear her perform One in a Million live. 

Hirai Momo.

Dance God with barbie-like features. She was always smiling and waving at our side of the stage, and I saw how cute she interacts with fans. Momo has a captivating stage presence and appears to be in her own universe while she performs. This is due to her intense focus on her performance in her aim to provide her audience with the best spectacle possible.

Park Jihyo.

She is a force to be reckoned with. Her high precision dance maneuvers electrify the audience, and she sings with the passion of a firebird. Her high notes are like pearls, each one more valuable than the last . She is unquestionably the best leader Twice can ask for.

Myoi Mina

On stage, she is a queen, her presence imposing and her aura irresistible. When she exits the stage, she returns to her modest self, kind and unassuming to the point where she was surprised that people screamed her name so much because of her sensual performance. Her facial features are delicate and ethereal that you can look at her all day long.

Kim Dahyun.

Her performance of "Try" is a work of art, a beautiful blend of power and emotion. Her smile is like a ray of sunshine, filling the room with warmth. Above all, she embodies quirkiness, with her half-moon eyes that twinkle like stars in the night sky. They crinkle at the corners as she grins, like crescent moons reflecting her warmth, kindness, and playful spirit..

Son Chaeyoung

She walks confidently onto the stage, her dimples flashing like two crescent moons, adding touch to the whimsy of her beauty. Her vocals are sometimes overlooked, yet she has a distinct and expressive voice that complements her song "My Guitar" well. She reminds me of a chameleon, always altering her style and look while being true to herself. Her raps were like fire, igniting the passion of her fans.

Chou Tzuyu

When she threw water at us, it felt like we were blessed. It is true that when you look at her beauty, you couldn’t help but stare and wonder if the one in front of you is a real person or a goddess. A celestial beauty descended from the heavens. Her beauty combined with humility and kindness is a true gift to the world. We really need more Tzuyus in the world. She may be the youngest, but her exquisite movements can make anyone melt.

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MINATOZAKI SANA.

I always get asked, “Who is your ultimate bias?”

And I always dodge the question, because how can I even choose?

But after seeing her perform for three days, I now have an answer. Minatozaki Sana.

Vocals. Visual. Dancer. Writer. Performer. Minatozaki Sana is all of these things. She is also the love of my life. There was no way I could begin or end my day without listening to her voice or raving over her beauty. As the three of us (Rina, Hannah, and I) discussed, we would rather feel down than see her sad. She is the embodiment of joy. If I could, I would formally thank her for her excellent timing, since every time I felt low and couldn't take another step, she would always post something or send a note in Bubble. I'm sure many people don't realize it, but Sana is a lifeboat for me on a rainy day at the ocean.

What was it like seeing her perform live?

It was like stepping into a fairy tale.

She was everything that I imagined and more. Her beauty is breathtaking, her talent is undeniable, and her aura is enticing. It felt like I was in the presence of royalty, and I knew it was a moment I would remember for the rest of my life.

The experience of filming "New Rules" was surreal. I was so used to watching her on the screen of my phone that when I did it, I couldn't believe I had the opportunity to film her personally.

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ENDING.

It was all over in a blink of an eye, and I wish we had more time to watch the girls perform, but I guess that’s just an excuse to book another VIP experience in the future, right? Unless I hit the jackpot and sponsor one of their albums in the future and get the chance to meet them up close and personal before then...

If you see this blog, it means that you also know how much I love Sana and Dahyun and their dynamic. And you also probably know how they saw our banner, and Dahyun ‘tried’ to piggyback Sana.

It was just one other thing that happened before the concert ended, but I don’t think I’ll ever get tired of talking about this moment. I know that my friends and family are sick of it already, but when you’ve supported an artist with your whole heart, no feeling will ever come close to the one created when you see them live and when they notice you.

No words will ever do this experience justice.

The moment that I saw Dahyun notice the banner that Hannah was holding, my heart pounded like crazy, since it was apparent that she looked around to check if Sana was near. Then, a couple of seconds later, we saw her pull Sana closer to our side, and then they did as we asked! She leaned down, and Sana tried to piggyback on her.

It was only a split second because Sana was wearing a skirt, and Dahyun, being the greenest flag of all, stopped immediately and held on to Sana’s skirt to protect her.

What's funny was due to us gaypanicking, Hannah and I were unable to get a good shot about what we experienced.

After that moment, Dahyun even did a thumbs up sign, as if asking if we were satisfied with what they did. Truly the queen of fanservice.

Everything about the experience was special. It’s moments like this that help you forget all about the things that are bothering you, the things that are weighing you down, and even if it only lasts for an hour, or even just a second, I felt happiness.

It was short and sweet but definitely a moment that I’ll remember forever and one I feel very lucky to have had.

[kiss-my-thighs-darling]

grocery store wormhole

There's nothing particularly interesting about Reid Cavan aside from the fact that he can't die and that his family is awfully rich. Aside from that, the guy is pretty much laid back and casually optimistic which Faro yet again considers incomprehensible. He took one long drag from his cigarette, downed the last of his coffee and exited through the kitchen door with Reid tailing him. 

Faro was certain he heard Reid gasp, confused that the door opened to a half empty parking lot rather than the manicured vegetable garden back at the Lighthouse. It was one of Faro's many talents, bending and looping reality, using doors to move through space, time and those grainy parts beyond the margins of existence. He dropped the last of his cigarette and stepped on it without thought. For an entity with the world's end at his fingertips, Faro was perpetually bored.

Reid composed himself from Faro's recent trick and blinked at the low yet large building before them. At least they were still in Cebu and thankfully in a place he recognized. It was one of those grocery store his mother goes to and often he comes with. 

Yet something about the place seemed not entirely right, a discrepancy he couldn't point his finger to. He followed Faro into the store and waited for their trip to make sense. 

It was a typical weekday morning. Right about the hour when the store has just opened and there hasn't been that many customers scanning aisle after aisle. Reid followed closely after Faro who broodingly grabbed a large pushcart and loaded it with merchandise. Somehow, Reid observed, Faro's mood deflates if he's without a drink at hand. 

"Every second and fourth Wednesday of the month I go here for groceries." Faro started.

"Right." nodded Reid, hiding his confusion. Today was supposed to be a work or field orientation day, show how they go about their everyday task right? Why groceries?

"So, what did you noticed?"

"Huh?"

Faro leaned on the cart and paused by an aisle with an array of detergent brands. For such a long time, he never met a Cavan who has poor observation skills. Or was poorly performing at anything at all. He scratched the stubble on his chin. "Everything. What do you noticed about your environment?"

Reid paused thoughtfully. "Nothing much, although everything seems hazy along the edges and some of the brands here are like in its old designs. You get what I mean?"

If Faro could role his eyes he would have done it but he doesn't have his sister's sass, "That's half right, you should have Rhys check your eyes. But those aren't old designs, it's current by perspective--technically, we travelled and went back about fifteen years from our timeline."

Reid blinked. 

Of course time travel exist to these guys. How come not? 

Still it was a difficult concept to accept despite how Reid had already lived in a world where excess human emotions take up space and shape forming into harmful phantoms. Did Faro really solved space-time? Can this guy even recite the Pythagorean theorem? Much more detail the elusive equation of string theory?

"How?"  Reid asked as if he has been begging for food after a year of starvation, the physics-loving side of him threatening to kneel in this half crowded grocery store for the answers to time.

Faro frowned at him, "Not how but why. I come here in this year because it's the only time where they sold this Mongo Ice Cream." he replied pointing at the stack of five 1.5 liter mongo flavored Selecto Ice Cream in the cart. "Oh and also, I haven't solve the anomaly in aisle thirteen." he pointed. "Brought Seth here one time, but apparently wormholes aren't his expertise. Yeah sure he can jump into different realities and all, but I forgot the part that it is an involuntary action. Like sneezing or coughing. 'Dude bro, I'm a victim of the Universe not a scientist, bro' Disappointing. I guess I have to be the one solving every fucking mystery in this whole goddamn universe, then."

"There's a wormhole."

"Yeah."

"In this store?"

"Indeed."

Reid felt his shoulder slag. How is that even possible? He left Faro where the guy stood complaining and headed down to aisle thirteen without premonition. 

Mind empty. 

There's a sphere floating in the middle of the aisle.

Wormholes are puncture wounds in the fabric of space time. Get a paper. Fold it then pierce a hole through it. If you spread it flat again, there are now two holes apart each other. That's the purpose of a wormhole, they connect two spaces across by folding the fabric of space. What appears as a flat hollow circle on the surface of a two-dimensional object would, of course, logically appear as a sphere in a three-dimensional realm. Reid was losing his shit.

"What. You haven't seen a sphere before?" Faro chuckled behind him.

"What's on the other side?"

Faro shrugged. "The past. It's always a different one each time I get through. But it's always the ones when I killed my sister."

Reid turned to him, mortified.

"Don't be confused, I've killed my sister multiple times thus when I pass, there's a different scenario."

Whatever, Reid thought to himself, it's best not to take seriously anything Faro says.  He's that lad who's sober when drunk.

Without as much as a warning, Reid stepped into the wormhole, his body morphed into a blur along with the sphere before disappearing. Faro remained where he stood, overall indifferent, leaning casually against the push cart while his mind drifts to the next concern. However, the thought of his sister lingered, how he almost forgot to grab her some napkins. 

He should head home after, Reid wont be back for days.

***

They were standing at the top of the Phylon II tower, looking downwards to the midnight stillness of Cebu. It's been a long night, however this wont be the last task in the list. There seems to be a never ending list of things to do. There's always work to be executed. All day and all night.

Some remnants of the Pacific breath course through the port, kissing chills on his bare skin. Reid tucked his hands in to the pocket of his jeans and quietly pondered about that jacket he left in the car, foolishly thinking his long sleeves would suffice.  He miscalculated his sensitivity to the cold. His brother however, seemed to be doing fine with his overcoat, an unusual garment against the tropical Philippine climate, but it was efficient enough to provide heat. Somehow, to their father's curiosity, both brothers aren't oriented to low temperatures.

A lone car coursed through the nearby parts of SRP, catching Reid's attention momentarily. To no one in particular, he said, "This is the part I hate the most."

Rune turned and carefully observed his younger brother against the blinking red light of the tower. What Reid lacked in character he made up with his features; against the dim, his face merely lit by the milky shine of the moon and the harsh red emergency lights, he looked oddly like their father. 

Reid continued, "I hate waiting. The absence of action, the boredom extending the minutes, the apprehension mixed with the anticipation of the arrival. I hate the thoughts that swim in my head the most." 

A faint smile curved on Rune's lips, surprise at the agony of his usually complacent optimistic nihilist of a brother. He can confirm it's an agony, for Reid rarely speaks unless he is asked, the complaint in itself is evident enough. "It seems to me that you're problem mostly concerns with yourself."

Reid frowned but said nothing. 

Tonight's task was to intercept a cargo vessel heading down to the port coming from Mindanao. Board on it (via controlled drop from CCLEX 's Phylon) before it arrives to the pier. Once they're safely on board, next step is to make a routine check on the cargo and the rest of the ship. Security on family business normally falls on the appropriate authorities but this one ship is special since it was captained by their father's old teammate, one of the best men in his time and yet, about two hours ago, he sent an emergency signal to a nearby fishing port south of  Cebu before going radio silent for the remainder of the journey.

The ship was finally close just a couple of meters before they jump. Rune squared his shoulders as he stood by the baluster and watch wordlessly each step his brother takes before jumping. It's a fine night embracing Cebu yet his guts turn in that almost spiritual way of knowing. The moon was almost a full circle image against the black starry sky, Reid jumped first and as Rune watches his brother land clumsily on deck, he felt the first stirrings of something not right. 

Then he jumped.

His landing was safely executed, rolling by his shoulders to distribute inertia. Upon his arrival he can see a couple of stowaways, those typical low-grade phantoms that are indigent in the country and as prevalent as a stray cat, not the kind to put trouble on an experienced Hunter such as Captain Amorsolo. 

"Check the quarters below, I'll take the bridge; meet me by the main mast after five minutes," he said to Reid to which his brother followed without question.

Not the strangest thing but one that is abnormal nonetheless, but Rune couldn't see anyone around. The bridge, the accommodation--empty. There's no one else here other than the both of them.

He climbed up to the Mast and waited for Reid, it's roughly three minutes since they boarded. From up here, Rune noticed the phantoms forming a circle on one of the large metal containers. Every stowaway congregated on it, as if called to for feeding. When Reid arrived, Rune pointed the group to him. "What do you think about it?"

"I've never seen them act like that before. Should we check it?"

"Definitely."

The phantoms didn't even scattered away when they approached, it appears as if whatever was inside that container  was more important than self-preservation. The container was those standard size with temp control on one end. This one is no doubt new judging by the pristine red paint on its exterior. It has a hatch on top of it, which makes it convenient to check although hatches like this aren't typical. Rune pulled out his platinum cutting and morphed it into the shape of the locks interior opening it without sweat. Cavans are a powerhouse in both Shaman and Corporate world. The gods favorite, it would seem, as they were gifted with the talent to control the elements. In a family of prodigy there stood out a couple of geniuses like Rune and their father, the few men who can control platinum and mercury.

As he opened the hatch, Rune felt a sort of confirmation to the dread he felt earlier. In the darkness, although unseen, stood a presence waiting. He stopped Reid before jumping "Age before beauty" he said. Call it paranoia and maybe it is, but one can never be too careful.

He landed not on metal but on concrete and as he felt Reid jumped and stood near him, the sound of a switch could be heard, and the lights went on to reveal a spacious white-painted office. 

At the other end of the room was an aquarium containing a smiling fish, an orange koi with human teeth. Standing next to it is a man in a pressed black suit wearing a furry mascot head of a rabbit. "Hello." spoke the fish.

"We are momentarily hid from the Balancer's eye, but not long enough for a proper introduction. And so, may I leave you with this" Spoke the one with the rabbit's head as he then turns to Reid "Ra, you once told me how you prefer to keep your friends close and the devil closer, well... I am at your door now."

Rune couldn't catch up, the next thing he knew was that the Bunnyman was only inches away from Reid in just a blink of the eye. He drew and his platinum and reshaped it into a bolo, but it just wasn't fast enough. As the bolo formed, the Bunnyman pressed his hand into Reid's chest, whispered something, before Reid's body exploded into an ugly mess of blood, viscera and minced flesh, painting the white room, red.

Only then did the bolo made contact with the Bunnyman's neck, cutting off the head covered with that stupid mascot. 

Not fast enough.

Not fast enough.

Not fast enough.

Not fast enough.

Not fast enough.

The headless man then pick his head and applied it back to where it was cut. "Impressive Master Cavan. As always, men from your family never fail to display ideal human strength. I have high regards for your clan and will not deprive it of its heir therefore I wont kill you. It was a pleasure, goodnight and have some rest, I will soon be hunting you all down."

***

"Sex is overrated" was printed on Faro's shirt when he walked into aisle thirteen barefooted, hand-carrying a basket full of Mongo ice cream and beer. "How was it?"

"I need some--" was what Reid could muster before he vomited into the aisle. Body swinging, his mind still flashing images of his blenderized version painting the walls red. "air."

"Okay just let me cash these real quick then we'll head back to the Lighthouse."

The waves were crashing violently against the cliffs, the clouds were an overcast, the weather was cold without the rain. 

"How. How is that a wormhole? Time. Time in this dimension moves forward not backwards. Why did it brought me to the past?"

Faro shrugged, lighted a cigarette before saying "I don't know, man. That wormhole's not supposed to be there anyway. What was it you saw?"

"How I died."

"Sucks."

"This guy with a rabbit mask turned me into a supernova."

Faro's brow furrowed. "A man with a rabbit mask, you say."

"Yeah and there's this big goldfish who can talk."

"A man in a furry mascot head of a rabbit, about ten feet tall, wears a suit and has a condescending attitude of a million peso butler?"

Reid paused, "How did you know."

"Yeah that guy's an asshole."

[funsize-mermaid]

Rook and Anti-tragus Piercing update

I must say na these two are my most stubborn and painful piercing I’ve ever had.

Day 1: No reaction pa kaya chill lang.

Day 2-3: Anti tragus started swelling with tolerable pain

Day 4: Rook started swelling too tapos almost whole ear ko na ay swelling. You can see on the 2nd photo na kitang kita yung swelling ng tenga ko compared sa kabila na hindi visible sa front angle.

Day 5-7: the most painful stage, which made me take pain relievers 3x a day kasi hindi ako makakawork if I didn’t. Kita nyo din sa day 7 na ang puffy talaga nung tenga ko.

Day 8(today): woke up today na kokonti nalang ang swelling, pero medyo masakit padin I took 1 pain reliever today. Kasi medj tolerable na yung pain tapos kaya ko na din magalaw yung earring. Magalaw lang ah, not remove haha

Ayun so hopefully continuous healing na to. Tho may downsizing appointment pa ko on June before my Cebu trip. Kaya cross fingers talaga na improved na sya. I guess na it will take a year bago to mag fully heal. Stubborn piercing talaga ee. 🥹 TIIS GANDA LITERAL. 🫣