Romania Trip – Brasov

After those fun days in Sibiu, my sister and I headed to Brasov. It was a three hour journey, good thing there is a minivan terminal in Sibiu. We tried to book for a bus and train but the timings weren't perfect. The journey was a bit scary as we were trailing dark roads and it was very cold. It was like a chilling moment while watching a horror flick and I was scaring myself by thinking, 'this is the place of Dracula and vampires'. Fortunately, we arrived in Brasov safe and sound.  From the terminal, we took a cab and located our hotel. I booked a hotel apartment but the cab driver and I noticed that it is too far from the city. The driver was too kind to recommend us a hotel near the city in an affordable price and when I saw it, it was perfect. We were both settled at around nine in the evening but still, we tried to navigate the city. Most of the shops were closed but we still managed to roam for a short time. Since it was snowing and was very cold (it was -6 degrees Celsius), we decided to call it a night.

We woke up early the next day because I was so excited to visit Dracula Castle. It was snowing that day and I was concern that it might be closed but fortunately, it was open. From Bus Terminal 2, there are buses that leave every 30 minutes to Bran; I think the ticket was 5 RON and one and half hour of journey. I was immediately amazed when I saw the castle and yes you can see a full smile on my face, another dream came true! There were other tourists on that time but my sister told me that during summer, more tourists are coming so we were lucky that day because it wasn't that many and it was a good chance to roam the castle without any hindrances during picture taking haha. To see the entire castle, it might take you three to four hours to check each of the corners. It is very obvious that some parts of the castle were renovated but still, there are some interesting things like the cape of Dracula, his old room, the torture room and some items from the queen. It was indeed a very fulfilling day.

There were several souvenir shops outside the castle so we bought some items. Also, we had our lunch in a Chinese restaurant (yes, there is!) across the street and the foods were delicious and very affordable. We headed back to Brasov and we were able to see the city during daylight. We visited the Town Hall Square (Piata Sfatului) which features medieval buildings in different architecture styles. We also visited the Black Church (Biserica Neagra) but unfortunately, it was close that time so we just got contented in appreciating the outer part of the church.  It is the largest and one of the most important Lutheran places of worship in the region.

The snow didn't stop us in walking and touring the city. We don't have a definite destination that day (after the Dracula castle) but we were looking for that famous cable car. So we found ourselves walking for almost an hour just to reach that place in Tampa. It is actually a mountain part in Brasov on which from the top, you will see the entire beauty of Brasov. We were able to catch the last ride that day and on top of the mountain, the view was picturesque. We took some pictures there but we weren't able to walk further as the snow was so thick. It was actually a short visit in Brasov but it was an amazing experience. It was also a good thing that I was prepared for such kind of weather since I was not completely recovered from my illness last January. More Brasov pictures can be seen below:

Read more »

Romania Trip - Sibiu

My sister has been working in Sibiu for five years now and one of the main reasons why I traveled to Romania was to visit her. From the international airport in Otopeni, I took a bus from the basement that brought me to Gara de Nord, a train station in Bucharest. From there, I immediately looked for a store to buy a sim card and luckily, the man in the store was so helpful despite the fact that he can't understand and speak English. I used some signs and point on a sim card and because of that I was able to call my sister. He even helped me to purchase a ticket for my Sibiu trip; I was touched by his actions and the kindness that he showed me. At 10:30 AM, the train departed the station and it was a five-hour journey towards the Romanian province.

Upon arrival in Sibiu, I took a cab and went straight to my hotel (Hotel Rin). I unpacked some things, had my late lunch and rested for few hours. At around 11PM, my sister went into my hotel (she wasn't able to pick me up in the airport since she was working that day) then we headed into her house. She is living with 2 colleagues, Esmeralda and Lhala who were waiting for us so that we can go together in a bar. It was 1 degree Celsius that night and it was indeed so cold. Initially, we went to this Irish pub where I met some Romanian friends (Romina and her cousins) of my sister but we wanted to dance so we transferred to a bar named Oldie's (don't be fooled by the name). It was jam-packed that night but we still managed to get a place, drank and danced. We left the place before 2AM.

The next day, after a free breakfast from the hotel, my sister and I, together with her two friends, Esmerald and Gay, strolled the old town. There, I witnessed the beauty of this city where several great architectures can be seen. Several designs of churches were also on "display". Our plan was to climb up to the clock tower but it was under renovation so we weren't able to do it. Nevertheless, we walked for almost two hours to feel the breeze of the place and cold was embracing us tightly. The place and the surroundings are so clean and the old buildings were still impressive. After that tiring moment, we went back to my sister's place to eat and have some coffee.

After a quick rest, we went to Muzeul Astra. It is actually a museum but in different approach. Normally, when we say museum, it is a showcase of paintings, art crafts, culture, etc in a room or big building. But this one, it is a big field and open area that requires hours of walking to navigate the surroundings. The museum exhibits the old life of Romanian people including the old houses, tools for farming and food preparation. At first, it was like I was just in a province but once you see the representation of Romanian culture, then you will embrace their nature and realize that there is something more in that place. We were lucky enough to meet a "museum guide" and I was amazed how these Filipino ladies were able to communicate in the Romanian language.

On my third day in Sibiu it was Palm Sunday so I accompanied my sister to church and the entire mass was in Romanian language but there were papers with English translation for foreigners. After that, I met Sofia and we headed to their home where a special lunch was waiting for me. I was so touched that they took time to prepare meals for me. Sofia's husband, Sorin, a Romanian baked a cake for that occasion; I was astonished by their hospitality. I also met Sorin's mom who also prepared a dish that day. The foods were all delicious and I really loved the chili mixture that they prepared. But before that sumptuous meal, we have drunk a special wine first as a tradition. They gave me a bottle of chili and wine and I brought them here in Dubai.

Afterwards, together with Sofia and Sorin, we went to a Romanian Art Gallery (Palatul Brukenthal) where taking pictures inside the vicinity is prohibited. The place actually showcases amazing paintings from the locals that exhibits the old and modern life of Romanian people. There are also some portraits of known personalities. On the other part of the gallery is a display about vampires and old artifacts of the country. Later that day, we walked around the city for almost two hours then we decided to take a rest in a bar where I met their other colleague, Girish; we had beer and snacks. The next thing we did is to look for the perfect way of going to Brasov for our next day's trip. My sister and I were planning to visit the Dracula house in Bran, a province near Brasov. The next day, I visited my sister's workplace in Mercuria and the area is so big. I can't believe that my sister can operate such huge machine for weaving. We didn't take much time to tour the entire place as we were leaving for Brasov that time. More Sibiu pictures below:

Read more »

One Year in Dubai

Exactly one year ago, I entered Dubai for the first time and I bid farewell to Singapore. It was actually an emotional day for me. Singapore has been my second home and a lot of memories, good and bad, made me who I am now. My one year experience here in Dubai is very challenging. The first few months were the time of adjustment. I was alone most of the time because I stayed alone in a hotel apartment for a month. The job was a bit stressful at first as I had to complete the training with a passing grade. I only have few friends here unlike in Singapore where I have a lot.

My life here in Dubai is a bit slow and everything seems to be relaxed. I found a church, met new friends via small group and continued my path towards Him. My job became demanding but most of the time, it was boring. I joined Fitness First and started to lose weight with the help of my trainer who eventually became a good friend. I also had the chance to travel again (my favorite thing to do) and in a span of one year, I was able to tour three countries: Nepal, Turkey and recently Romania where I spent quality time with my sister. I also got the chance to take a vacation in Manila and Singapore after staying here for only four months. My boss was kind enough to approve my leave. My father visited me here and I really enjoyed those times. It was one of the highlights of my stay here and every minute of it was priceless. A college friend also came here for a business trip but still, we got the chance to see each other and spent quality time and reminisced the past that we had during the college years including some gossips and updates.

The challenges started when I struggled in my job and I felt I was left alone and the work wasn't that fulfilling. Also, I got sick this year and it was really bad. I had Bell's palsy and I almost gave up that time as it was very painful. There were no family members who took care of me but I was able to recover with the prayers from them and also from close friends. I think that was the lowest point of my life here in Dubai. But it was not always sadness; I was able to buy a house and lot for my parents and that brought me a great joy. Also, I am now an uncle since my sister gave birth to a baby boy. Life is indeed full of obstacles that we must overcome. My experience here in the Middle East taught me how to be more independent, how to handle sadness, enjoy happiness and how to embrace the gladness and pain of love related matters. It will be a long journey to fulfill my dreams but I am not really sure if Dubai will answer all of it. Well, I survived Dubai for one year, let's see how it goes. Some things might happen and I'm not sure where opportunities will bring me.

Read more »

Yes, Tattoo

Many were surprised when I inked myself last 1st of March (1.3.13). It has been my plan for three years to get one but can't decide where to do it. The design is the Philippians 4:13 verse. For me, getting a tattoo is a personal decision. I did this as a declaration and profession of my love to Him, that with Him, I can do everything. I've been through a lot for the past years but I am still glad that I have experienced those tests because it made me stronger and taught me a lot of lessons. I will not justify my act in terms of biblical factors as I don't want make a statement that might lead to argument. My personal relationship with Him is still intact and will always be strong.

The artist was my high school classmate (Melvin Miranda) and when I saw his works on his Facebook account, I knew he was the perfect man to do the job. He was so frank to tell me that it will hurt and yes, it was painful but I managed to stay calm but the sweat on my legs was the proof that I was so nervous that day. The session took almost two hours and it was the longest two hours of my life but the result was good. I went home immediately to wash it, clean it with an antibacterial soap and apply Vaseline lotion. Before having it, I made a research about the aftercare. The tattoo artist won't have any responsibilities in taking care of a tattoo after the session. I read the aftercare tips and learned some few things. First, you need to apply cream on the wound (yes, tattoo is an open wound) three times a day for first three days (I used Bepanthen). Going to work, I have to cover it with a bandage so the art will not be destroyed. On the fourth day, the tattoo should be applied with a cream that is colorless and fragrance free. In my case, I used Eucerin Aquaphor and after 5 days, my tattoo was completely healed but I still applied the same cream for the next 10 days. In getting a tattoo, you should think it a million times and assess your true motive before having it. I am not encouraging you to get a tattoo unless you are sure and no one is influencing you to make such decision.

Read more »

My Personal Trainers in Singapore

I transferred to Singapore last 2008 to work in a French financial services company. I can say that I was physically fit during time but since it was a new environment for me, I forgot about the words diet and workout and tried several foods and was so lazy to go to gym. I gained a lot of weight and fats and the rest was history. Fitness First has always been my gym so I enrolled for a membership after a few months.

I received a call from a trainer asking for some workout trials with him and that time, I thought it was a good time to get back in shape so I agreed. Then I met Ashraf Stephen and I could say that the workout we did was really good so I signed up for 30 sessions worth 2,000 SGD. I learned new workout routines that I haven't experienced from my previous trainers. Also, he taught me some modification on some machines/equipments in case the required item isn't available for use. He knows what he is doing and being in the fitness industry for years I can say that he is a good trainer. On his personal side, what I remember is that he is from Britain, converted to Islam, married to Singaporean and they have two kids. I was about to renew the sessions with him when he got another job from other fitness center and I still have a contract with Fitness First so I can't move to other gym that time. His work experience is considerably one of the best and in this kind of job since 2005. He was a personal trainer in California Fitness and now working in Sky Fitness in Harbourfront both in Singapore. Other qualifications include (1) Advanced Personal Trainer, Asian Academy for Sports & Fitness Professionals (AASFP) / (2) PTS, Resisted Movement Training, American Council of Exercise / (3) CPR & AED Certified. His motto: "Tomorrow Never Comes". He once told me that he was joining (I forgot the exact name) Singapore's Strongest Man. After my 30 sessions with him, I felt stronger and more active again. I also noticed some improvement in my body and I regained my endurance. Ashraf is a very good person and trainer; currently we are still in contact with each other and will definitely see him when I visit Singapore again. So if you want his professional expertise then go now to Sky Fitness and acquire his service.

A good friend of mine encouraged me to workout with her and at the same time, referred me to her personal trainer. She introduced me to Don Abaya. At first, I was hesitant to get him as trainer because during our negotiation, he asked me to talk to his manager to discuss further the terms. Anyway, what really convinced me was the huge change I saw to my friend, she really lost a lot of weight. So I signed up for 50 sessions for around 3,000 SGD. After few sessions, I started to enjoy his workout routines and his companion. He talks a lot and you can't stop him once he started talking. He is an all-around trainer; he knows boxing, core training and TRX. Before entering the fitness industry, he used to work in a clinic and was a medical representative in Manila. He entered and started to be a personal trainer when he joined Slimmer's World in Manila. He was a junior trainer and eventually became the head trainer. What really good about him is that he is a licensed physical therapist so I can basically say that he knows what he is doing in terms of muscle, joints or other physical related matters. Don is in the fitness industry for more than 10 years now and in Singapore since 2009. Now, he is an elite trainer and working in California Fitness in Orchard Road. When I confirmed that I'll be transferring to Dubai, I tried to finish all the remaining sessions with him. Sometimes I book 2 hours and it was almost everyday haha. He did not complain and by that I was encouraged to do and give more in our workout. He is a hardworking person and a very good man. He has a lot of sense of humor that we can talk anything under the sun. Before coming to Dubai, there was a major improvement to myself both physically and mentally. I formed some amount of muscles and I became comfortable again in running. As of latest update, he is now the good husband of my friend and I was supposed to attend their wedding last January but due to some instances, I wasn't able to do so. Anyway, he is a good friend and soon to be a "kumpare". Hey, go now to California Fitness and get this guy!

Read more »

Istanbul Trip Part 4

I woke up early on my 4th day since it was my last day in Istanbul. I wasn't feeling well that time and the headache was killing me. Nevertheless, I packed my bags and left the hotel after my breakfast. I walked directly to Hagia Sophia (about 15 minutes) and queued then waited for it to open. It was before 9:00 AM but there were numerous tourists already lining up. The entrance fee is 25 TL; it was once a mosque then converted into a museum and is famous because of it's massive dome. The place offers impressive architectural design and creative arrangement of lights. Also, you can explore the "second floor" but you have to climb up in a labyrinth-like passage. There were souvenir shops and some display of art. Some part of the museum prohibits the use of camera especially on the mosaic exhibition. The place is a bit huge and the atmosphere boasts it's rich culture.

Topkapi Palace is also walking distance from Hagia Sophia and the entrance fee is also 25 TL. It was originally the primary residence of the sultans and royals. I must say, it is a wide place. There were several entrances that lead to different buildings and semi museums where photo taking is also not allowed. The palace is preserving important relics especially Muhammed's cloak and sword. UNESCO gave the World Heritage Site title to this place on the year 1985 and indeed, it deserves the award. What I really liked was the garden area where I think the royalties used to relax with a view of the sea and refreshing air. There were also some "mini mosques" on which a certain piece of historical item is being displayed and the internal design is so beautiful. The complex also has hundreds of rooms that used to be a royal bath, dormitories, jewelries storage room, meeting hall and a sole room for circumcision.

My last stop that day was the Miniaturk. I headed to Eminonu tramway station and from there, I took a cab going to this place since it isn't accessible thru trains and walking isn't possible. The fare was around 30-40 TL. As I arrived there, I remembered a place that I went to in Shenzhen, China; it was like 'Windows of the World'. Miniaturk showcases the miniatures of all Turkey's famous landmarks, buildings, mosques, government buildings and other historic structures. It also covers non-Istanbul spots. It is one of the world's biggest miniature parks with a total land area of 650,000 sq ft. Also, there are these speakers with button that you need to press so that a voice will be heard explaining about a certain miniature.

For more pictures about my Istanbul Trip, you can click here to view it. It was a short but very memorable trip. Istanbul taught me the lesson about handling personal items carefully and how to manage and survive in a cold environment. Istanbul is a very beautiful place and I really admire the transport sector of the city. I will definitely come back here if given a chance.

Read more »

Obtaining Romanian Tourist Visa in Dubai

I've been planning to visit my sister in Romania for almost three years now. When I was in Singapore, I started to gather information for the required documents and even searched for the Romanian embassy's location. But due to some financial adjustments and other priorities, it wasn't pushed through. Nevertheless, when I transferred here in Dubai, the plan came back to life. It is actually way better since the plane ticket is much cheaper and will only take me 5 hours of journey.

My three main reasons on why I want to visit Romania are first, to visit my sister. Second is to see Dracula's castle and lastly, the recognition of Sibiu (a major city) as Europe's Center for Culture in 2007. Getting tourist visa is easier than Turkey's except for the consulate location. The first time I went there, I had to use Google Maps just to direct the taxi driver of the location. For the requirements, you won't need salary certificate and 'No Objection Certificate' from your employer which means they won't be aware of your whereabouts during your leave. For the requirements, you will need the following:

• Airline ticket
• Hotel booking
• Travel insurance
• 3 Months bank statement
• 2 passport photos
• Passport & residence permit (also a copy)
• Duly accomplished application form (of course)

You have to pay 330 AED upon the submission of the documents. As for the location, you just need to say to the cab driver: Jumeirah 1 12B St, behind Spinney's and opposite Beach Road. If you have a car, better to use GPS and locate 12B Street in Jumeirah 1.

Read more »

Istanbul Trip Part 3

Eminonu station was the main destination on my third day in Istanbul. It was around 9:00 AM when I purchased a ticket for Bosphorus Tour first before heading to New Mosque; it was just a walking distance. As a tradition and respect, the shoes should be removed before entering the mosque. New Mosque is one of the best known sights in Istanbul. The mosque alone has 66 domes and semi-domes which make it a nice architectural view. Inside, you will notice tremendous designs on each of the domes and the sight was picturesque. The lights were so beautiful and creatively arranged to expose the greater side of the mosque.

Just beside the New Mosque is the Spice Bazaar which is the second largest covered shopping complex (after Grand Bazaar) in Istanbul. The name itself explains why it was called Spice Bazaar. Upon entering, you will notice that several spices are being sold in most stalls. There were also glass wares, dried fruits and some tea products. It is an 'L'-shaped building. Currently, it is still the center of spice trading in Istanbul. Unfortunately, I didn't buy anything from the bazaar but the place was crowded with several tourists acquiring free taste and purchasing some products.

It was after an hour when I boarded the ferry for the Bosphorus Tour. Bosphorus is also known as Istanbul Strait that forms part of the boundary between Europe and Asia. If you have seen Taken 2, there was a scene where Liam was riding in a ferry with his daughter and pointing out Europe and Asian part of Istanbul. Anyway, it was a total of 4 hours journey (back and forth) on which I really enjoyed seeing the amazing views of Istanbul represented and divided by waters. The tour showed Istanbul's beautiful house architectures and old buildings. I also noticed that there are many Turkish flags along the strait. The ferry made several stops to pick up some passengers and eventually ended in Anadolu Kavagi where we had 2-3 hour stop.

In Anadolu Kavagi, you will see many seafood restaurants where the staffs are all smile inviting you to dine in with them. But the first thing that most of us tourists did was to climb up the hill and reach the Yoros Castle. From the top, you will see the refreshing view of the Black Sea meeting Bosphorus. I rested for a while there and observed the surroundings and it felt like the winds were embracing me and whispering to me that life is indeed beautiful. After a while, I went down to look for something to eat. I found this restaurant that has a heater inside to unleash the coldness temporarily. I boarded the ferry after an hour that took me back to Eminonu.

From Eminonu, I rode the tramway and headed to Taksim Square. It is the top destination for tourists because of it's leisure things such as restaurants, shops and hotel. It is also considered as the heart of Istanbul. Once you see the "Monument of the Republic", then you can say that you in Taksim Square. The shopping street is so huge and every corner has special retail stores. I took some time to buy souvenirs and good thing I learned some Turkish phrases for shopping purposes. It was a long and tiring day but very fulfilling.

Read more »