Zalora Philippines Online Shopping Review

As you know, I love online shopping when I am stressed. And one of my favorite online shops to visit is Zalora. I have made several successful purchases at zalora but never really had a chance to properly review everything.

What I love shopping at Zalora is that they give out coupon codes and discounts from time to time. :) Since they started in the Philippines, now their site has grown. They have added more brands to their list like Mango, River Island and more. They even upgraded their website which is now better than before. Just my thoughts though because I can now view the website even with a slow internet connection.

The common question for most is, is it legit? Of course it is. As far as I know, Zalora is a big online shopping company in Asia. If you have no credit card  or PayPal, it is not a problem. They offer COD payments too.

Delivery time usually takes 7 days from my experience since I am from the province. One of the things I love about shopping at Zalora is items ordered, no matter the size, they will always come in Zalora box and not just wrapped with anything. This way I know that my orders are safe.
This Christmas season, if you have no time to shop on department stores, Zalora is a perfect choice to shop your gifts and everything else. Highly recommended!

Enjoy 15% discount when you shop at Zalora, just use the code ZBAPZSFT. You can even share it with your friends.

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Missha Near Skin Firming Peptide Toner and Emulsion Review

I have regretted it so much why I didn't try this as soon as I had these samplers. This set of beauty bottle was hibernating in my closet for like a year already since I received them. I bought the M Perfect BB Cream so I had this two coming along on my package.

Missha Near Skin Firming Peptide line was the one of highest end product for Missha because it is really effective. This is according to the CS on Missha Philippines who replied to me when I inquired for its price.

A short description about the item from Missha US site.

"Near Skin Firming Peptide Extra Vital Toner helps make dry and fatigued skin smooth and bright while allowing the following skin care products absorb into the skin. It provides moisture to the skin and helps make even skin texture. Skin-friendly ingredients, like Lipid Water and 12 peptides, control moisture balance in the skin to help boost the benefits of following skin care.

Near Skin Concentrating Emulsion helps firm and tighten skin by maintaining moisture and nutrition balance while increasing turnover of dead skin cells, a cause of sagging skin. The soft and silky textured formula moisturizes and nourishes the skin to help make an even and smooth skin texture. Contains skin-friendly ingredients, like Lipid Water, Lipid Barrier, and 12 peptides, for firming and tightening benefits.

Near Skin Firming Peptide 4-Step Wrinkle Care & Firming System
Step 1) contains Fermented Bio-Calcium to strengthen skin barrier and tighten the skin
Step 2) contains 12 peptides to restore skin elasticity for firm skin
Step 3) improves fine lines and wrinkles for a smooth skin surface
Step 4) protects and strengthens skin barrier for healthy skin condition"

With the benefits stated above, I can really say that this combo is really effective on my acne prone skin. The effects are noticeable even after 3 days of using it during my night regimen. The effects are even better compared to what was prescribed by my dermatologist which I have stopped because I was not satisfied even after 1 year of following it. I did not use any other creams during my usage for this combo and I am loving the effect on my face. It really beats my previous regimen from my dermatologist. :)

After cleansing my face, I use Near Skin Firming Peptide Extra Vital Toner. The toner is lightly colored and smells good. I used to apply it using a cotton but later change and apply it by lightly patting using my palm for better absorption. After a while I apply Near Skin Concentrating Emulsion by gently massaging in circular motion on my face and neck. There was a slight tingling sensation during my first few nights of using it. I was worried it will cause any bad side effects but it was not so I think the slight tingling sensation was normal.

Just by using this two products, the effects are really great. On the third day of using it, I notice my skin was lighter and moist. Dewy not oily. And if I look at it closely it seems that the skin looks more relaxed than it was before. Pores were minimized but are still there. No major break outs during my usage and the zits that was already there before I started using it healed faster.

Now it’s more than a week of using the sampler, I am panicking where I can get these items so I can continue enjoying the benefits. Should I repurchase? Of course, definitely I am. I have ordered from a friend of mine but the stocks will arrive by December and my samplers are almost near to empty.

Shelling out PhP 2600 (Missha Philippines Facebook) for each bottle is such a horror compared to PhP 900 (from a reseller) each bottle. That was a huge price difference from the same product.

And no, I am not posting my face to show you the before and after like how they normally do it. :)

Update: 2/20/15

Missha Near Skin Firming Peptide Toner and Emulsion

So I now have the full size bottle and they are so light pink. The packaging is elegant and very feminine. (They're so chic by the way!) Product consistency and effects on me are the same with the samples I tried few months ago. I was very glad to finally have them. The only downside with their packaging is that you can't tell how much toner or emulsion you still have because it is not transparent. I hope they can make it more transparent or maybe have a part of the bottle transparent so just we can see the level of the product inside.

The toner dispense a controllable amount of liquid and a pump for emulsion is adequate enough for my whole face. Both bottles are still heavy so I assume they are still enough after 2 months of using them. I wonder how long they will last on me. My face doesn't feel stingy anymore when I apply them unlike the first time I tried them. I use the toner morning and night and the emulsion on night time only.

Since starting a Korean Skin Care Routine, I can really say there has been an improvement on my skin specially on the moisturizing department. Though I still battle a few bouts of break outs on my jaw line part from time to time, but they are controllable. I have to accept that my acne is genetic and all I have to make sure is that it doesn't get worst then I will be fine. The oiliness is now very minimal and yay, I don't have to worry for the cheek to cheek greetings. Haha!

Update 7/25/15

The full sized bottle for toner lasted me about 6 months and 15 days. So far, the effects was good on me. I am more happy with my skin right now than before. I still have 1 more bottle in my closet but I think I'll try the Laneige Power Essential Skin Refiner Sensitive Toner.

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Buddha's Surf Resort Siargao Resto and Bar

Aside from enjoying the good accommodation at Buddha's Surf Resort Siargao, we also had the chance to enjoy their very delicious food. Too bad I didn’t get a picture for every meal we ordered there. 

Their Burgers and Sandwiches’ are one of the best you should try while on the island.

This is their Angus Burger with fries on the side. You can also chose a mashed potatoes if you want to. Babe loves the burger and according to him, it was one of the best burger he ever had. The patty was not too salty or too bland and it was packed with fresh veggies. 

This is my Tuna Sandwich. I was hoping it also has a fries on the sides, hahaha. The bun is elongated so it was cut into half. What I like the most about it is that it has a REAL tuna in it and not the canned tuna mixed in a mayo like some of the resto in the cities serves. The bun also tasted good, I wonder where they bought it or bake it themselves. It just taste so good.

The only thing you might hate here is the serving time, so if you are the type of a person that doesn't like waiting. You can order your food then come back after 20-30 minutes at the resto. We usually play cards while waiting for our food to be served. Good food are worth the wait. :)


I did not bother to look at the price since we all paid it when we checked out but there burgers and sandwiches is somewhere at 200 - 250 pesos.

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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!

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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. :)

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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.

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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!

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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

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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. :)

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