Diary Entry #34: My CitiBank Credit Card Application

I am just so thrilled I got approved for a Citibank Card. I didn't expect that to happen. So thrilled that even at this midnight I had to type in and share how excited I am.

What so great about having a credit card anyway? Utang na naman yan.!

I am not a fan of loans and debts, but there are times that you really have to. I already have a BPI secured card, for the past year and half using it, I find it helpful managing my finances and paying my bills easier than queuing at the payment center. To avoid debts from overspending, I always see to it that I have enough money to pay my bill even if my salary will be late.

So during my stay at Cebu, I happen to see the Citibank agents at SM Cebu Supermarket and this lady agent came to approach me and ask if I want to apply and take advantage of their existing Free Annual Fee For Life promo. Though I really want to apply but I did not bother entertaining her because I know I won't get approve due to the nature of my work. After a few minutes of talking and the possible explanation why I was disapproved from previous application even if I already had a BPI credit card, I got convinced to try it again this time and I told her that I will just approach her after we finish shopping for our goodies. Then after paying the cashier, I head back to their kiosk to fill the form.

So I just fill the form, provide her my ID and credit card for documentation. Then they gave me the blue Citibank umbrella. Di bale disapproved, may payong naman ako!

Here is my FREE umbrella. Very useful this rainy season.

It took almost 15 days for the entire application

August 29: Filled out the form and got my free umbrella

September 4: Got a confirmation text that my application was received

September 9: Got a confirmation text that my application was approved

September 16: My card arrived! Yey!

Not bad this time. Thanks Citibank!

Read more

Buddha's Surf Resort Siargao, Phillippines

After booking our tickets to Siargao through Cebu Pacific's Piso fare, I spent whole night looking for a place to stay in Siargao. Since it will be my first time there and none of my friends can actually give me a good tips about there so I had to do a research on my own.

So all my search lead me to Buddha's. So I inquired and made a reservation online by emailing them. I booked the superior room with breakfast at P 2650.00 per night. I initially booked for 3 nights only, then our flight was re-booked so I had to add another 1 night.

At the airport we were greeted by the driver with my name on the sign board. It was a good idea to book your airport transfer as I don't notice any public vehicle around the airport. The trip from the airport to the resort is almost 1 hour at 60/km drive. At the resort, we were greeted by the staff with all smiles that will make you feel really welcome. As you enter, there bar is on the right side, a place to a volleyball and a little walk will be 5 room building. Ours was the only room on the second floor. After the staff showed us our room, about 5 minutes our welcome drinks was serve. Too bad I was not able to enjoy it as it has a cola. I don't drink cola.

Birthday boy playing candy crush

This is the view from our room. The place is well maintained and very clean. The green grounds where you can play or just relax at the hammocks. You can play badminton here, you can borrow rackets at the bar. 

Our room was big and very spacious. I didn't had the to take a picture though but it was really neat. It has its own walk in closet so no need worry about cluttered clothes all over. The bathroom was also huge. Mattress is very comfortable plus the very large flat screen TV is our favourite. The room is quite pricey from but from the amenities and the service I receive from staff. It was all worth it.

Aside from the excellent accommodation, the food at Buddha's Surf Resort Siargao was the best and is a must try. They serve one of the best sandwiches I have ever tasted. There Angus beef burger and Tuna Sandwich was really delicious. The only downside is that the serving time which takes longer than usual. But it was all worth the wait. You should also try their Burrito and Curry. My bf loves their curry.


Surprisingly, the internet connection in Siargao is pretty good. I didn't have problems doing my work while I was there. Also, Cloud 9 is a bit far (2.5 km) from the resort, but you can rent a motor bike.


It was fun staying here. :)

Read more

Revlon Colorbust Matte Balm Review

Lippies. Lipsticks. Lip gloss. Whatever it is they are all lipstick to me. Just earlier this year, I thought I have found my favorite palette for lip colours that I previously bought from zalora.com.ph. I love the colours but my only problem is that it doesn't last for more than 4 hours and you have to constantly retouch.

When I went to Watson's last week, I bumped into their lipstick corner and found this Revlon Colorbust Matte Balm #210. After some chit chatting with the sales lady and got sold by her sales power. I bought one to try on. And guess what, it is now my favorite lip colour (at this time though). I love it that even when I am at home, I still use it.

Revlon Colorbust Matte Balm no. 210

What I like about Revlon Colorbust Matte Balm is that it stays longer even after eat something or drink something, I don't have to worry about retouch. The packaging is also cute, though my first impression when I open it was it looks like a Jumbo Crayola. Haha. It also tastes good, it actually has a minty flavour on it. Plus, the matte has a natural look if applied properly.

Revlon Colorbust Matte Balm no. 210

What I don't like? Drying my lips and the price. It cost me P 575.00. It's quite pricey but heck, if it is that good, I really don't mind buying more colours.


I guess this will be on my Christmas list soon for my girls.

Updated 01.21.15:

I actually did buy another shade for Revlon Colorbust Matte Balm last Christmas. Shade no. 205 is almost at the same colour on my lips. So if I opt to wear something so neutral, I use this shade. If I compare the color, it is something near to an Old Rose. I honestly can't tell if it stays longer like no. 210 coz it has the same tone my lips has. It's still drying my lips though but it is a good lippies.

Read more

River Rafting at Cagayan de Oro

River rafting at Cagayan de Oro City, FUN!

Kids getting excited! We took the Advance Package which cost us Php 1000 each and Php 500 fee for the whole group for the pictures. At first, I felt that Php 500 was a bit expensive for the pictures but after I have seen the CD, it was all worth it. You can really see in these kids faces' all smiles. They are too excited for the fun and adventure ahead of them. 

As far as I have remembered, I think the Advance package for the river rafting has 21 rapids and it lasted for 4-5 hours. It was a good idea for us to bring lunch with during the fun and ate in the middle of our adventure while taking breaks.

That's me on the rock!... 

If you go to Cagayan de Oro City, don't forget to try and experience river rafting. You can contact CDO Bugsay and book your adventure.

CDO Bugsay River Rafting
0917-3-BUGSAY

Pick up is at 7:30AM near Dunkin Dougnuts divisoria. You will be fetched by a jeepney with blue boats on top of it. Same jeepney you will be on riding going to the mountains. It's good to wear leggings and warmer to avoid sunburn. Sunblock didn't work! :D

Thanks to Jhong the photographer and to our river guide, which I forgot the name.

High Five! BUGSAY!

Read more

Diary Entry #33: My Christmas Cupcakes

TADAAAA!!! My first attempt to decorate my first Christmas cupcakes. I'm so loving it.. Not bad eh!? Heheheh

I joined a baking class last Saturday and we baked Chocolate and Carrot cupcakes. Chef JP from Monster Kitchen was really fun during our class and have learned a lot from him.

Chocolate Cupcakes

Chocolate Cupcakes

Read more

Little Emily Online Shop Review

I have not shopped here recently but I just wanted to share my thoughts about it.

I have been a customer of Little Emily Shop even during the multiply.com existence. But after it shutdown, I was glad that they put up their own domain to cater their customers from multiply. You can check their online shop here Little Emily Shop.

What I like about this shop is that they offer wholesale price, which means you can get it cheaper compared to the retail prices but of course with a minimum number of orders required. I was a hoarder back then, and online shopping is the best way to satisfy my thirst as it is the most accessible way for me.

They sell all kinds of products, from memo pads to stickers to accessories to dress. Most of the items are really cute too. The site is easy to navigate and really simple. They also accept re-sellers.

On top of that, the thing that you will love most about the shop is the affordable prices they offer. You can save more if you buy from them especially those Asian dresses sold on wholesaler sites from China. Though it is not as affordable compared to what you see on those sites but you get to save the expensive shipping fee and Customs Tax. I can still remember, some sellers you can find on Facebook display almost similar items which are very pricey, for a maxi dress you are billed 700-900. Such a pain in my wallet.

If you are from Philippines, and planned to shop on one of those wholesaler websites from China or Hong Kong, might as well buy it from Little Emily Shop, you will get the same quality of goods and be saved from Customs Tax. It's more convenient and fast plus you can save with the shipping fee. They use Xend Express so if you are from provincial areas like me, most likely your order will arrive 2 days after it is shipped.

These shoeboxes are from Little Emily Shop, I bought it few months back. It's 30+ something each box compared 50+ each box when you buy it from retails or somewhere else.

Sadly, their website does not accept credit card payments but I hope they will add it in the future. However if you have linked your card to your PayPal account, then just pay through PayPal, it will be deducted to your card if your PayPal is not funded.

But overall, I always love shopping with Little Emily.
 
Update 2.25.15

So I thought this deserves an update. Right now, I think this shop has been focusing on selling  ladies wears. I am still shopping with them from time to time. As usual, order and and payment processing is fast, but since they deliver their orders through Xend, it takes 4-5 days before I can get the item. It still annoys me though why it is taking that long, I would be very lucky if I receive the orders after 3 days.

Customer support is fast, if you need something to be change in your order, you will receive a reply from them within the except Holidays and Sundays.

The items are non branded so you can't expect a high end quality of their item, some are good and some are not. Some of their dresses are very nice though. Sizes are mostly based on Asian women so if you are petite like me, it will be a very good fit. 

 

 

Those are some of my favorites from them. :)

Read more

Unboxing Samsung Galaxy Tab 3 (SM-T210)

So I recently bought a Samsung Tab 3 since my cell phone is starting to show signs of old age. I can't even install candy crush on it!

I bought my tab at SM Cebu Appliance for P 8991.00 instead of P 9990.00. It was 5% off and an additional 500 pesos for cash/straight credit card payments. I was already eyeing on this one online but when I saw that on SM with a discounted price, I immediately bought it.

The Samsung Tab 3 I have has a wifi only connection. It's not a problem for me since I can tether my cell phone connection if I am out for a trip and our house is also a wifi hotspot. The Samsung Tab 3 with 3G connection was at P14000.00 I think, but I'm not sure as I did not bother to take a look at it.

I have the marble white color with 8GB memory. The package includes a USB cord, travel adapter, and a manual. I did not regret getting this one! The tab can play games without problems. Screen resolution is also good. Though the back camera is bit turn off since it has only 3MP but it can capture decent photos for online sharing. Battery life is not that good, I have to charge it every day. I also have to turn it off when charging as the unit heats up if turned on when charging.

The screen is also wide enough to do basic tasks like watching movies and photos, browsing the web, games or editing documents. The size feels good with my petite hands, however I have to use both hands when typing/chatting. It's very handy too as I don't need to use larger bags if I take it outside.

Aside from gaming, it also perfect document editing. Polaris Office can do the magic as it can also edit Microsoft Office documents. That means I can easily edit my sheets easily even without my netbook. You can also hide apps that you think is not useful for you.

Overall, I love my Samsung Tab 3. It's was worth it buying this tab.

Read more

K-Drama Review: Shark

Category: Entertainment

Genre: Korean Drama

It’s the comeback drama for KNG that is why I have to watch it. Aside from that Son Ye Jin was part of it so this must be a very good drama. But, eeeeennnk. Just an average though.

image credits to hancinema

Shark is a melodrama about revenge and love. While watching it, it’s like watching the Bad Guy or a continuation of Bad Guy. Though the actors were great and the acting was effective too but it’s too sad. I hope KNG would participate on a light-hearted drama and not those bad guy roles always.

I also find it pathetic for Son Ye Jin's character to be very inconsiderate to his husbands’ feelings. He was there during bad times, love her for who she was and supports her whatever she does, but still she keeps on thinking about his first love. She even cancelled the honeymoon. What the heck!

But well, I still enjoyed it a bit. It was good but not very good. I’m still a fan of KNG and SYJ.

Read more

Hof Gorei Resort, Samal

Category: Travel
Destination: Samal Island, Davao

It was my birthday treat for my BF's birthday. Thanks to Cebu Pacific's piso fares for making it happen. I booked 2 tickets to Davao for his birthday and stayed in Samal Island for 2 nights.

After doing a research whole night on where to stay in Samal, we finally decided to stay in Hof Gorei. We booked the Romantic Getaway Package which is P3500 each. Bookings were very easy and the customer service who attended to our queries via email was prompt and accommodating.

We arrived at Davao Airport at 8:00 AM so we ate our breakfast first while waiting for the time to pass since the boat transfer from Davao to Samal will arrive at 10:00 AM. From the Airport, we rode a taxi going Sta. Ana wharf. Mind you, the wharf has no place for waiting passengers. If you go there earlier than your scheduled time, you may need to deal with the heat of the sun plus the dusty atmosphere coming from trucks loading and unloading products. Not to include the persistent pearl sellers.

So finally our boat has arrived. The trip going to the resort took almost an hour. So better bring with you some foods to eat while on board. At the resort wharf, we are greeted with our personal butler with our drinks and our cool towels. That was nice! After sightseeing for a while, I noticed how clear the sea is. You can see the ocean life clearly.

Our villa was a few meters from the beach. I really like the atmosphere there. The place is perfect for couples who want to spend time relaxing with themselves. The place is free from any noise of the city life. Beach with white sand is so adorable, you can set your breakfast, lunch or dinner there if you want for a romantic feel. Rooms are quite spacious, with a separate toilet and bath and a private veranda. And foods are so delicious. It's worth to mention specially their Tinolang Manok, my favorite among the foods we have ordered.

The downside on this resort however is the internet. I really had a problem connecting to the internet as a result, I was not able to work most of projects while there. Internet connection is only available on the wharf area that is about 100 meters away from the resort. The connection too is not stable.

Also, if you are staying here, the price is 3 times higher than the regular price but don't worry, they accept major credit cards so you don't have to worry if you have no cash with you. Also, no grocery stores or ATMs nearby.

Island hopping was included in our package. It was a whole day activity. We were lucky we are only 2 groups to have Island Hopping that day and the other couple was also cool. The whole day activity felt more romantic and exclusive because there are only few people on board. Less noise and possible annoying individuals. :) The only thing I was disappointed with during that day was food. I didn't know I have to pay for it and was charged almost P1000 for that. If I would have known that, I should have ate more or ordered the ones that I love to eat on the beach.

But overall, my Hof Gorei stay was memorable and worth every penny I have paid for. Thanks to Micoy our personal butler who attended to our needs during our stay.

Samal Island, Snorkeling

Crystal Blue Water

Hof Gorei Beach Front

It was fun to be there!

Read more