My First Winter Experience: Busan, South Korea

Winter is fun to look at, but I was really hesitant to experience it because (i) I might not survive the bitter cold; (ii) I need to wear at least four layers of clothes; and (iii) I need a bigger luggage allowance. In short, it wasn't part of my travel plans for this year.

When the ground staff of Ngurah Rai International Airport told us that they were going to bump us off from our flight to Manila, we got furious. Upon seeing our disappointed faces, she reassured us that we'd be upgraded on a flight later that day, avail of a free one-night stay at their airport hotel, and the best part: a free roundtrip ticket to any regional destinations valid for six months!

I initially planned to fly to Kuala Lumpur and book another flight to Kathmandu but the cheapest was around PHP15k. Plan B was to book a trip to Singapore, and then book another flight to Bhutan, but it's even more expensive. I considered other options like Vietnam and Kota Kinabalu and explored its neighboring countries and provinces, but I was itching to try something new. Eventually, Korea came across my mind. Fast forward, I booked a flight to the Land of the Morning Calm.

Level Up 2017 with Piattos

There are a lot of reasons to be grateful this 2017. I was lucky that 2016 brought me to a lot of places and I had the chance to savor various cuisines in Asia, experience new cultures, and see the world in a different perspective.

I’m all set to make 2017 even more fruitful, memorable and enjoyable. Here are my own tips for making this happen:

My South Korean Adventure: An Overview

South Korea wasn't part of my travel plans this year. I wasn't ready to explore this part of the country, especially in the middle of their frigid winter. But, the tables have turned when we got bumped off from our flight to Manila from Denpasar last year. I had no choice but to avail their free roundtrip tickets to any regional destination before January 31st.

Since I have been craving for a new adventure, I chose Korea despite their harsh weather. Well, it turned out to be an amazing experience.

Taking Travel Blogging to the Next Level

As a travel blogger who is always on the go and has a regular day job, it really is challenging to keep my blog updated. Usually, after my trip, I feel exhausted and drained. My creativity is at its lowest, and sometimes it is very hard for me to compose draft blog posts. I can no longer think of a proper sentence or even phrases to write! There are times that I get uninspired and lazy that I completely forget to update my blog, which is unfortunate because I love blogging—for me, it’s my #PiattosTime! 

Lately, I am challenging myself to bring my #PiattosTime blogging to the next level. I have already devised some ways to combat indolence and to add some creativity juice. Here are some:

How to Apply for Korea Tourist Visa in the Philippines

Ah, South Korea. The land of kimchi, samgyeupsal, soju, celebrity hajimas and ahjushis, and KPop. Ever since their soap operas and music became a part of our pop culture, Korea has become a popular tourist destination for Filipinos. But the thing is, we are required to have a valid visa before entering Kpoplandia.

Here are the steps and a few reminders on how to obtain a Korean visa successfully:

PHOTO DIARY: Yogyakarta, Indonesia

Yogyakarta (pronounced as Jogjakarta, or Jogja for short) is one of the most important cities in Central Java. Most of its corners are laced with so much history dated back in the early 13th century. Its heritage and culture are so vibrant that it is one of the most visited Indonesian cities by both local and foreign tourists. There are so many places to visit in Jogja - Jalan Malioboro where you can find the cheapest batik goods, the water castle, and other several geoheritage sites. As you explore the outskirts of the city, you'll discover more of the Java Island's history. Ancient temples like Borobudur, the world's largest Buddhist temple, and a UNESCO Heritage Site, and Prambanan Temple, the largest Hindu temple in Indonesia, offer a glimpse of the country's colorful past.

These are some of the photos I took during my trip in Yogyakarta last August 2015. We only stayed there overnight. I should be back there and explore more of Jogja.

Camera: Canon EOS 1100D / 50mm f/1.8

The Top Destinations for Traveling with Friends

As a student who is close to finishing their degree in criminal justice, there is no doubt that you’ve been working hard and studying like crazy. You are close to setting out in the world and looking for jobs in criminal justice so why not have that one last “hurrah” with friends. We’ve put together a list of the top destinations for traveling with friends, which are sure to provide you with great times and plenty of memories to cherish.

Brand New Adventures

Happy New Year! I hope everyone's doing great. I'm so happy that finally, after working nonstop since the 20th, I've finally come home and celebrate new year's eve with my family. Last year, I have listed some of my plans for the year 2016. Despite being notorious, 2016 came out to be a great one for me. I have explored more countries like Japan, Taiwan, and Thailand, experienced new cultures, and met new friends along the way.

The year 2017 holds a great promise for everyone. I don't know what's in store for me this year, but I'm pretty sure it's going to be awesome!