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Blogs, YouTube Videos

Welcome To my Youtube channel!

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Finally! I did it!

This has been long overdue! I created the subpage videos on this website 2016. Yup, 5 years ago and I am filling it with content only now! That’s insane.

Why haven’t I created a YouTube Channel earlier? Well, it was mainly because I am insecure. All these vloggers I see look so good and flawless. So I thought, nobody will watch the channel of an almost mediocre person like me.

But this year, I have decided I will do things I never once thought I would ever do. I will do thing that makes me happen, regardless whether I’ll have viewers or not.

So here it goes, my first video. An introduction video and a collection of videos I took from few of our trips pre-covid.

Iceland, Stonehenge, London, New York, Chicago, Paris

So… here it is!

P.S.

Don’t forget to like and subscribe!

XX

The Probing Wife

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Blogs, Travel

2 Days Itinerary in Edinburgh

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‘Edinburgh is a sweet surprise. A city that depicts the past yet reflects the future at the same time.’ – Hannah

After our trip to London, my husband and I thought about making use of our UK visa again. A few hours after that, we found ourselves booking cheap tickets and flights to Edinburgh, Scotland.  And off we go.

This is not our first time to travel of course so we know the drill. We researched and map out our itinerary for Edinburgh. While doing our research, we saw some pictures of Edinburgh and my husband and I were quite dismayed. It didn’t seem special at all. It didn’t seem beautiful. To be honest, we thought that if this trip will not push through we will not mind at all.

Then came the day of our trip. The day before that I had a really high fever and even had a bacterial infection in my throat so I am not really in a happy mood. When we got in Edinburgh, everything changed.

We took the bus 35 from Edinburgh airport to the Airbnb apartment we rented. The fare was just 1.65 GBP. There are other quicker options like Airlink and Tram but cheap as we are, we opted for the bus. By the way, the buses in Edinburgh accepts cash and exact amount only. If you insert 5 pounds in the machine be ready not to get any change.

We arrived at around 8:00 in the evening. After settling in the apartment, we went out hoping to catch the ghost tour which was scheduled at 9:00pm. We walked from the apartment to the city for 30 minutes, and much to our dismay, since it is winter they do not do the 9pm tour anymore. But it was worth it, though. On our way to the city center we were saying that there seemed to be nothing special about Edinburgh but when we got into the center, our jaw dropped. Truly the pictures online did no justice to how beautiful Edinburgh is.

Even at night, it was magical. With a castle towering behind the whole city, it felt like we were immediately transported back in time where kings and queens look over their dominion from afar. Seeing and hearing everything that is happening in the town below.

After the walk, we made our way to the apartment. We had dinner on the way in our favorite restaurant in the UK, Nando’s.lol, Enough about us, let’s talk about Edinburgh and what are the things you should definitely do when you are there.

Edinburgh - The probing wife
Off we go to Arthur’s Seat. Taken from the top of a double-decker bus.

Day 1.

9:00 am – 12:30 Arthurs Seat and Salisbury.

If you want to see the whole see from a top of the mountain, you should definitely hike your way to Arthur’s Seat and Salisbury. Everything that you can see there is majestic. There are 2 main ways that you can use to go on top of the mountain. One is the steep, slippery and less taken while the other is the easy and flat road. Of course, my husband I chose the road less taken. Slippery, muddy and steep. We all have different preferences so go and choose the one that suits you. Either way, you’ll reach the top and be mesmerized all the same.

Edinburgh- The probing Wife
View from Arthur’s Seat.

The probing wife - edinburgh
Cheesy. Cheeky. On top of Arthur’s Seat.

After the long hike, we made our way to the city for our scheduled free city tour.

2:oo – 4:00  Free City Tour.

I know most of you do not like tours, but my husband and I really love them because we learn a little something about the history of the city and the country as well. And if you are lucky enough to have an amazing guide that brings you to the not so touristy part of the city, that is a huge plus. During this tour, my husband and I found out that JK Rowling wrote most of the book in a small cafe in front of the Greyfriar Cemetry. We even got to see the school that looks like Hogwarts, and for a reason. This is the school where JK rowling based the idea of Hogwarts itself, especially the facade and the fact that the school has 4 houses as well.

the probing wife - edinburgh
Never ever think that this heart symbolizes love. Contrary, it symbolizes hatred and disgust. Yep, we had an amazing guide.

7:00 – 9:00 pm Free Ghost Tour

It is creepy. If you don’t feel chilly and cold enough on a winter night, then join this tour. You’ll feel the chills running through your vein the whole time. You’ll know about baby strangling, Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, witches, vampire, he-who-must-not-be-named and much more.

Day 2.

After a whole day of walking, needless to say, we are very tired the next day. So we started our second day with a little hike.lol, Here’s the second day of our Edinburgh adventure.

8:00 – 10:30 Calton Hill.

The way to Calton Hill is not as steep as Salisbury nor Arthur Seat but it was equally magical. Ding ding ding! Fairytales are real.

Edinburgh - The probing wife

Edinburgh - The probing wife
Edinburgh. Athens of the North.

10:30- 12:30 Holyrood Castle.

Holyrood Castle is right below the Arthurs Seat. As a matter of fact, you can even start your trip here then go to Arthur’s Seat. We just didn’t do that because we were excited about the hike. There is usually an entrance fee of 12GBP to go in the castle but my husband and I were at a perfect time because that day it was free entrance so we grabbed the opportunity and toured the castle.

holyrood-castle

By the way, it is not allowed to take pictures inside the castle, so take as many as you can while you are still allowed to do so.

Holyrood Castle - the probing wife
So touristy.

1:00- 3:00 Edinburgh Castle.

Every 1:00 in the afternoon the Edinburgh castle has an old tradition where they set off a canon. It is an amazing tradition and one that you should definitely look forward to. There is an entrance fee of 16GBP. We have had a lot of castle for a day so my husband and I didn’t go in. But for all of you who loves castles, this is definitely for you.

 

Edinburgh castle - the probing wife
Edinburgh Castle

 

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Edinburgh Castle

We spent the rest of the day walking around Royal Mile, Grass Market and more. There is truly more to Edinburgh that meets the eye. Be ready for an adventure because you will not lack one in Edinburgh.

 

‘Go and travel. The world is waiting.’

– Hannah 

 

 

P.S.

Here is another airport transfer service from Edinburgh Airport to the city.

 

Airlink 100- 4GBP

Tram – 5 GBP

Bus- 1.65 GBP

Blogs, Uncategorized

No Excuse not to be Fit When in Denmark

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If someone will ask me what it is that I love about Denmark, I am pretty sure I can go on the whole day stating my reasons. I mean, it is hailed as the happiest country in the world so truly there are multiple (if not thousands) of reasons why I fell in love with it. As a matter fact, I wrote a blog before about how it is to live like a Dane. 

But one of the reasons why I love Denmark is that it gives a person absolute NO REASON not to be fit. Let me tell you why.

  1. Parks are everywhere.

    In Denmark, there are a lot of parks and playgrounds. After every few blocks, you can see a park filled with kids and adults alike. In these parks, you can play basketball, trampoline,climb or jog. Do whatever you want and nobody will care. Also, on weekends or at night time you can just go to any school playground and use the amenities there,for free.

  2. Intended walk/jogging path.

    It is very safe to jog/walk in Denmark. You do not have to worry about passing cars because Denmark already thought of that even before you did. That is why they have really wide walkways which are very convenient for everyone to use when they are jogging or doing their morning walks.

  3. It is very safe to walk around even at night.

    If you are a busy bee and do not have the luxury to exercise in the morning,do not worry. Denmark got you covered. You can do a night exercise if you want. It is generally safe to run in Denmark even at night time. As a matter of fact, I am sure you will not be alone as many Danes tend to run as well during night time. Who knows, you might meet your “fitness buddy” on one of those nights, under the starry sky and big blue moon…ahh.Sweet.

  4. Bike Lanes.

    Remember what I told you about pathways? Well, that’s not the only thing that Denmark has. They have bike lanes too. It has a reputation being the world’s most bike-friendly country.  Most of the Danes use bikes when they go to the office or even when they run their errands.In fact, almost 50% of those living in Copenhagen do use a bicycle when going to work.  30 minutes bike ride is an easy-peasy for them. I don’t know if it’s just the Viking in them, but men, these people are so fit and strong!

So if ever you are looking for a “fitspiration” country, I would really say that is Denmark. And if you want some motivation to be fit, visit Denmark because this country will give you NO REASON not to be one.

Blogs, Uncategorized

On Serendipity and Taking Chances

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Serendipity truly happens, but it will never come full circle not unless you take that chance.

– Hannah

December 24, 2013.

A day I will forever treasure. I was in Copenhagen, Denmark, lying on my bed, tired and exhausted from an extra job I just finished. I was meaning to just lie in the bed for a few minutes before I head towards my friend’s house to celebrate Christmas with her family.

Suddenly, she called me and said that the dinner is canceled since they can’t cook because their oven is broken. Great! I was already looking forward to dinner since I haven’t had any proper meal the whole day. Exhaustion kicked in and I fell asleep for a few minutes/hours.

I was awakened by a call. My phone has been ringing endlessly. Still sleepy, I picked it up and saw that it was my friend. I picked it up and tried to sound like the dinner cancellation didn’t matter to me since I do not want her to feel bad, especially on the eve of Christmas.

She said that we can celebrate Christmas in their house since they were able to fix the oven. I was so happy! I immediately told her that I am on my way. Maybe it was out of hunger, I was able to tolerate the harsh winter of Denmark without warmers. Still, in my old worn out shirt, I put on pants and winter jacket and off I went to her house. I know I look like a crap. But I didn’t care! All that mattered to me during that time was FOOD.

Oh, did I mention I haven’t taken a bath yet? Gross, right? lol. I packed a dress though for the dinner and planned to take a bath in her place. (see I can be a lady too!well, not really, but whatever!) When I arrived at the bus station near her apartment, I swear I can smell the roasted chicken she was preparing. I immediately went to their apartment and I was welcomed warmly. I was just resting for a bit then planned to take a bath when their guest room door opened.

Without any exaggeration, I swear I felt my heart skipped a bit. He has this smug and snob looking face but deym, I didn’t care! He was so good looking and he walks like…Rihanna.Kidding! My friend introduced him and said that they are officemates. We shook hands and then he went to the bathroom. Wow! how can he manage to look good even if he hasn’t taken a bath? How can he manage to smell good even…(STOP HANNAH!You sound like a psycho deeply smitten stalker!)

Anyways, I tried to act lady like (impossible!) despite wearing ragged clothes and looking “dirty”.lol I asked my friend why she didn’t tell me that they have visitors. I was really embarrassed. She laughed at me and said, its okay.

So after the mystery guy finished taking a shower, I immediately went in. Ah! There it is again. That manly cologne that tickles my nose. The smell that… (STOP IT, YOU WEIRDO!) I showered like I have never showered before. I used the best smelling soaps they had and rubbed my skin the hardest possible. I wanted to look fresh. I wanted to smell amazing. I wanted to… get his attention

And it occurred to me. This is weird. I mean really weird. 1. I was recovering from a break up (Didn’t bother me that much, though. He wasn’t worth a tear.) 2. I was fasting from relationships. 3. I do not fall that easily. So me, acting all smitten and giggly after just one meeting is so out of character!

Anyways, I just let it be. I tried to contain myself and said this is nothing. I am just acting all stupid again and exaggerating things. Anyways, I curled my hair, put a little makeup and sprayed a bit of perfume. (Who am I kidding?I almost drowned in perfume!)

We had a dinner and exchanged gifts. Every Christmas eve, at exactly 12:00 in the midnight, I make a wish. I usually pray for happiness and abundance but that night was different. That night, I prayed for God to give me the love I deserve and said Thank You. I don’t know why I prayed for love nor why I said thank you. I just did.

I spent the night at my friend’s house. The visitor offered me the guest room and he slept on the couch. The following morning, I woke up early and saw the visitor sleeping soundly but I can see he feels cold. So I grabbed my blanket and covered him with it. And then I glanced at his face and I felt like my heart melted like there was a need for me to hug him… (MANIAC!!!!!!!!) I contained myself and just tried to cook breakfast instead. He was awakened by all the noise I was making and offered to help me.

After Christmas, we became inseparable. We would always “hang out” or go to my friend’s place to chill. We became good friends and he told me about his relationship status, or should I say, lack thereof. He never once had a “typical” girlfriend. It was all just experiment and no commitment stuff for him. I lectured him about taking care of girls’ heart.

After everything he told me and all the warning from my friend, I know this is not the guy I want. BUT there is something in him that really just pulls me back. He said he likes me, but I was scared. What if I am just a part of his game?

His intention to me was tested when one of his..ermmm fling (FU-BU) came to Europe to see him. (Yep, girls fly a thousand miles just to see him!) He said he will sleep in our friend’s house but I told him that is very impolite. He said he talked to her already but she still insists on going. He seemed so frustrated so I told him it is fine. I mean we are not in a relationship yet so there is no point for me to tell him what to do nor to get frustrated because he might hurt my feelings. (I was really hurt that time. The nerve of that girl!)

He picked up the girl at the airport. I didn’t go with him because I want to test him as well. If he really cares for me, he will update me or call me even if the girl is around. And lo and behold, he did. He kept on texting me to the point that, I myself told him to stop calling and texting and entertain his “friend”. He introduced me to the girl and we were civil. Eery civil. But anyways, enough about her.

The point is, that guy proved to me that he truly loves me. That he is willing to change just for me. That guy who has commitment issues proposed to me a week after we have been together!

His butt-hurt FUBU’s don’t want to give up, though. We had to go through a lot just to get into the state where we are now. That guy, whom I met on Christmas eve was the answer to my prayer. I realized he was the “THANK YOU” in my Christmas prayer because that guy, whom I met on Christmas Eve is now my husband.

Love is never easy. It is so precious and so beautiful, but it is meant only for those who have brave hearts. Serendipity truly happens, but it will never come full circle not unless you take that chance. That leap of faith. That willingness to fight for it. And my husband and I, we fought for it, we took the chance…and now we are as happy as one can ever be.

Blogs, Travel

Trip to London: Day 2 Walking Tours

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When my husband and I went to Prague, Czech Republic two years ago, we joined a FREE WALKING TOUR. If you are new to the concept of a free walking tour, this basically means that you do not have to pay before hand the tour that you want to join. You will pay the tour guide VOLUNTARILY any amount that you think the tour is worth.

We had fun during the tour in Prague so we decided to do the same in London. I feel like it is such an amazing experience seeing the whole city in the eyes of a local. Plus some history lessons wouldn’t hurt. I searched online for free walking tours and I was so happy when I found one company who does it.

Free Tours by Foot offers a lot of tour options but my husband and I were so interested in 2 (at first). We signed up for London All in One Tour and Jack the Ripper Tour.  Our second day began at Green Park Station because that is the assigned meet up for the London All in One Tour. We met our guide, Margaret. There were a lot of us in the tour but it wasn’t too crowded. Just enough for us to feel like we are really tourists.lol

Tour Route

The whole tour was strategically planned. It saved us a lot of time and made us really enjoy the whole tour. The tour guide was so amazing and entertaining. She clearly knows a lot about history as well as about the royals. The tour was divided into two parts, morning and afternoon.

This was the schedule for the morning tour: (From free tours by foot)

I have to be honest, it was a really long walk! That is why having a really amazing guide helps. She keeps us all entertained despite the fact that it was scorching hot that time. My husband and I learned a lot about London through the tour. So despite the long walk, we were very happy that we took that tour.
The London All in one tour ended at Tower Hill. It was the most amazing end for the tour. The view was just perfect! We can see the Tower Bridge as well as the river Thames. Both looking equally picturesque!
After the London All in One Tour, we went to our next tour which was the Jack the Ripper tour. We chose this tour because I have always been intrigued on who Jack the Ripper is! It  seem creepy and scary, good thing I was with my husband! Our tour guide was Jessica. And she was equally amazing! I couldn’t remember exactly but her Phd has something to do with killers and murders so it was pretty cool!
The tour was not like any other tour. She presented it in a very theatrical way that it seemed to me like I was watching a movie rather than in a tour. In every stop, she gots me into thinking about who Jack the Ripper really is. And with every stop, it just gets more and more exciting to the point that I did not want it to end! Unfortunately, it did come to an end but we are happy because all of our effort in walking did not go to waste! The two tours we have had were by far some of the best we have ever had. So Kudos to Free Tours by Foot for hiring the best tour guide in the whole London!
After each tour, we gave our tour guides a tip. And we do not regret paying them because they truly deserve it! They were more than amazing. So if ever you find yourself in London and looking for the best way to roam around the city and at the same time learn about it’s history, join Free Tours by Foot!
Disclaimer: This is not a paid advertisement. I just had an amazing experience with the company so I wrote about it. 

Blogs, Travel

Trip to London: Day 1- After the Storm

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If you have been following my blog, you know that our first few hours in London fell nothing short of an adventure. It was like a race against time. Had we been contestants on Amazing Race, we would have won the race, no doubt about it!. If you haven’t read about it, feel free to check it out here. During those times, I can say it really pays to marry a Superman.

After the fiasco, we went to our Airbnb apartment and rest for a while trying to catch our breath and get a grip of what just happened. The moment we recovered, my husband and I realized we’re famished. Good thing his friend came to the rescue. He works for a Japanese restaurant in London as a chef and he invited us to come over.

Travel Tip: If you will stay in London for 3 or more days, it best that you get an Oyster Card. We bought an oyster card good for 7 days so we paid £37. Oh, when you are done using the oyster card you can return it and then get a refund of £5. 🙂

Since our apartment was conveniently located near the city, it was pretty easy for us to go the restaurant. My husband and his old friend said their hi’s and hellos. I wasn’t paying much attention because all that I can think of was food! They talked about our little adventure that day until our order was served.

The moment it was laid on the table, I immediately took a bite. I do not know if I was just very hungry but it tasted nothing like anything I have ever tasted before. It was so good! My husband’s friend Kuya Rey (the chef) ordered a lot for us! Even if my husband and I were hungry, we are not really big eaters so we were taken aback by the amount of food served on us.

Remember when I said the food was so good and my husband not being big eaters? Well, scrap that. The food was not just good, it was heavenly to the point that my husband and I finished EVERYTHING! I mean, we had Volcano Roll (sushi), Spicy Mango Roll (sushi), Rib Eye, Wagyu Beef and rice. All of these were served in huge portion but we were able to consume it all plus the desert!

murakami-wagyu-beef

It was the best way to start the calm after the storm and I wouldn’t really wish it any other way. We loved the food so much that before our flight, we decided to eat again in Murakami and it was yet again another gastronomic experience!

After we left the restaurant, my husband and I walked around the city to take touristy shots.Our first stop was, of course, the Big Ben. I was beyond amazed when I saw the Parliament and the Big Ben! I can still remember it explode from the James Bond movie so I was beyond thrilled that finally, I AM IN LONDON! (And we found my bag with everything still in it!)

Right across the bridge was the London Eye. Yes, you read it right. I saw the freaking London Eye! I literally have to pick up my jaw and screw it back. It felt so surreal for me. It was just beyond amazing! My husband loves taking pictures of buildings at night so we have decided to go somewhere else since it is still early. He asked me where I would like to go.

“I am just a girl, standing in front of a boy, asking him to love her back…” That was all I can ever think of during that time. And so off we go to Notting Hill. 

When we got to Notting Hill, we immediately started looking for the blue door and the bookshop. We were so happy when we found it and took loads of pictures. Apart from the blue door and Travel/Book shop, Notting Hill is a pretty amazing street so if ever you are in London, I suggest you put it on your list.

After going all cheesy in Notting Hill, we have decided it is time to go somewhere magical. And what could be more magical than Platform 9 3/4? I am a Potter-head so seeing that platform in real life made my heart leap for joy. You can take pictures on the platform but there are also photographers there from the Harry Potter store (conveniently located next to it) that can take your picture and print it for £15. My husband is not a fan of printed pictures so we decided to take pictures of our own and it turned out pretty amazing.

After the magical encounter, we went back to the parliament so my husband can take pictures and then went home around midnight. The train closes at 01:00 so we still had plenty of time. But since we were so tired, we have decided to end the Day 1 of our London Adventure.

 

 

PS.

Day 2 will be even more exciting so don’t forget to follow so you will not miss anything. 🙂 Also I will write about our Where to Eat in London so we can talk more about the food and of course more pictures! 🙂

 

Blogs, Food

WTE Copenhagen: Hija de Sanchez

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A lot of you might have heard about the famed 2 Michelin Star restaurant NOMA. It is truly a place for foodies and culinarian alike. It is so famous around the globe to the point that all aspiring chefs would like to experience working there under the supervision of no less than René Redzepi.

So when the news broke out that its pastry chef Rosio Sanchez left NOMA to start her own business venture, everyone was shocked and at the same time thrilled on what and how she will do outside the revered 2 Michelin Star resto.

And ‘lo and behold, she did well! I mean so well that on the opening day of her stand called Hija de Sanchez, she said on an interview via Vogue Magazine that “Sunday we had the longest line I’ve ever seen.” Of course I will never let the opportunity pass. A week after my husband and I arrived in Copenhagen we went and tried this coveted taqueria stand.

I can’t really say much about it but all I know is that it’s the best taco I have ever had.Try their Ice Pops called Paletas. It taste beyond perfection! If you want to experience ultimate foodgasm without breaking a bank, go to Hija de Sanchez!

Locations:

Torvehallerne, Frederiksborggade 21

and

Slagterboderne 8

PS.

WTE means Where to Eat!

 

Blogs, Travel

Iceland: Love at First Sight

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Do you believe in love at first sight? It’s like the moment you laid eyes on that someone or something, the world seemed to stop. Your heart is beating so fast and you can’t contain the happiness you feel. And for no reason, you find yourself blushing and giggling all over! Call me lucky, but I know exactly how that feels because I have felt in when I visited Iceland.

 The first time I laid my eyes on that far-flung but fascinating country, I was really smitten by its beauty. It was so much beyond words. I felt like I was on another planet. I have never seen anything as serene, as pure and as amazing as this country. Iceland sure did give justice to the word “foreign”. It was a real FOREIGN country. Nothing about it seemed familiar to me, not even this so much happiness and amazement  that I feel in my heart.

Iceland is not as tourist pack as other countries but one should not take it against Iceland. It is actually a good thing because you can have freedom exploring the country. You can take great pictures and also really just take your time savoring this wonderful country that is truly one of a kind. Walking in the streets of Reykjavik is like walking into the pages of history books. The small houses, the cold weather, the Viking shops…all these little things adds to the charm that only this cold country can offer. There are so many things to do in Iceland. But for those of you who wants to make the most of your visit, here’s my shortlist of things you should do when in Iceland.

 1. PLUNGE INTO THE BLUE LAGOON
Needless to say, Iceland is a very cold country. What better way to keep yourself warm than swimming into this warm water which as its name suggest is colored blue!lol.  It is so refreshing to swim in this lagoon! The weather might be dropping but this lagoon is forever warm! Furthermore, the warm water is also very rich in minerals like Silica and Sulfur so bathing in it is told to be good for people suffering from skin diseases. The warmth of the water is just perfect. It was so soothing! The entrance fee is around 30 euros. Just bring your own towel and swimsuit so you can avoid other charges. By the way, out of all the tourist attractions in Iceland, this one is the most packed so be prepared to see A LOT of tourists. Though in my experience, it didn’t affect how much I enjoyed the place. Looking back, I didn’t really even cared about them! I felt like it was just me and the lagoon!haha Oh, I almost forgot, just at the side of the lagoon, there is natural Sauna. It was truly great to sweat off in that cave like Sauna!

2. TRY THE FAMOUS HOTDOG STAND BAEJARINs BETZU
Do you want to eat where the kings and presidents eat when they are in Iceland? Oh, don’t worry! Your pocket will not burn on the price. Go to the hotdog stand Baejarins Betzu. This is the most famous hot dog stand in Iceland. There is nothing special in this hotdog stand, but if you look at the pictures hanged on the cart you will see famous people eating their hotdogs. And when I say famous, I am not exaggerating. Ever heard of the name Bill Clinton? The Kardashians? Oh yes, they have tried it! So why not try it too? But do note that they only have one table so be prepared to eat your hotdog while standing. Well, I think the better way to eat it is by walking around exploring the city. It is very near the bay so you can savor every bite while letting your eyes rest in the beautiful surrounding.

3. GO TO THE GOLDEN CIRCLE
Would you like to see a frozen waterfall, a very panoramic view or a Geysir? Well, you are definitely in the right place! Iceland has all of these. You have to drive south-west of the country to go the Golden Circle but its just a good 1 hour-2 hours drive, not a biggie for the view that awaits you. On your way, you might have to slow down when you are on the “ICE MOUNTAIN” as I call it because everything can be covered in the total mist…Though it is not like a scene from a scary movie. More like a taste of what heaven may look like. If you are renting a car, be careful when driving because this is ZERO VISIBILITY at its peak.

4. TAKE A PEEK INSIDE THE OPERA HOUSE
The Nordic country each have an opera house designed by one architect, and Iceland has one of the most beautiful opera houses. It changes its color at night, but be careful! Iceland is a very windy country and since the opera house is in a beachfront, it might get a little more windy than the usual. Don’t be like me, trying to be oh so tough and heavy. Needless to say, I almost went home blown by the wind.

5. HAVE SOME STEAK
I love a good steak! And so far, Herreford in Reykjavik has served me one of the best! They have what they call, “Hvad” Steak, a unique cuisine that only this steakhouse can offer. It literally melts in the mouth! I don’t want you to hate me so don’t translate it, please! It might be very delicious but never let anyone know you had it. That is if you do not want to be persecuted by PETA or GREENPEACE.

6. WAIT FOR AURORA BOREALIS
Do you believe in magic? If not, after seeing the northern light, I am sure you will believe in it. There is just something magical and whimsical with the aurora borealis. I don’t know but it really made me happy. There is a kind of happiness and peace that only it can bring. Best time to go and see this is February, so start saving up and embark into this one of a kind journey!

PS

After I got back from Iceland, My friend asked me where I have been. I told her…to another galaxy. That is how beautiful Iceland is. So out of this world! ❤

Go and travel..the world is waiting. -HKC

Blogs, Travel

5 Important Tips in Traveling

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For a lot of people, traveling can be very tiring. They think that there are a lot of things to do and prepare when you go out of the country but actually, this is very wrong. Traveling can be as easy and smooth as pie. I have been to a lot of countries via bus, train, plane and even on a ship, and I have never had any bad experience. Traveling had always been a pleasant and great experience for me. I will share with you some of the things that I bear in mind when I travel.  Just 5 things and you’re on the go!

  • CHECK PASSPORT REGULATION.

    This is the first thing that you have to consider when traveling abroad. You can’t book first then worry about the immigration rules of the country later. For Filipinos, there are a lot of countries that we can’t visit without a visa. But don’t lose hope; there are also a lot of countries that we can visit without worrying about anything.

 Here’s a list of those countries.

Bolivia – 60 days

Brazil – 90 days (for holders of diplomatic, official, and service passports, visa-free for (a) duration of tour of duty or (b) 180 days for official business or tourism)

Brunei – 14 days

Cambodia – 21 days

Colombia

Costa Rica – 30 days

Ecuador – 90 days

Hong Kong SAR – 14 days

India – Visa upon arrival valid for 30 days (limited only to New Delhi and Mumbai airports)

Indonesia – 30 days

Israel – visa-free for tourists (no. of days of stay will depend on Immigration); visa-free for holders of diplomatic and official passports; visa required for business)

Laos – 30 days

Malaysia – 30 days

Morocco

Mozambique – Visa upon arrival valid for 30 days

Palau – 30 days, visa upon arrival (provided that the Filipino national has a return/onward plane ticket)

Peru – 60 days

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Singapore – 30 days

Sri Lanka – 30 days, visa upon arrival (provided that the Filipino national has a return/onward plane ticket)

Suriname

Thailand – 30 days

Taiwan-  30 days

Tuvalu – 30 days, visa upon arrival (provided that the Filipino national has a return /onward plane ticket)

Vanuatu – 30 days, visa upon arrival (provided that the Filipino national has a return / onward plane ticket)

Vietnam – 21 days

Zambia – visa upon arrival; 3 months for tourism, 1 month for business

  • BOOK A HOTEL AHEAD OF TIME.

    Booking ahead your hotel is very helpful. It gives you a lot of time to check on the hotels with the best deals, gives you time to check the hotels’ accessibility and other services that you might want to have.

  • BRING YOUR OOTD’s and CASH.

    Travel gives everyone the opportunity to post countless OOTD shots. I mean, it’s not every day that you get to go to other country and see some really amazing sights, right? So, go on and take those #OOTD pictures! Anther thing that you should bring is CASH. Most people might say it is safer and better to bring credit card when traveling but for me, I always make sure that I have cash on hand just in case I need it. The best bargain and cheapest souvenirs for me are the one’s sold on the street and of course they do not accept credit cards, so having cash is really a must for me. Furthermore, some transportation means like a bus or traditional transportation like “tuk-tuk”  (Thailand) do not accept a card. SO for a better and fuller travel experience, better to have cash in hand.

  • MEDICINES.

    Being on vacation doesn’t mean you are immune to some sickness. Worst you might even get the flu while on vacation so being a “girl scout” wouldn’t hurt. Also, trying out new food might take its toll on you, so better be ready with those tablets!

  • ITINERARY.

    You have to be wise when traveling. You have to make the most out of every day but do not go overboard and plan for more than 24 hours. Remember, there’re just 24 hours a day! Do some research about the best places to go to, take a look at your map and plan your trip. You can try to download “Ulmon” on your mobile phone. It can work even if you are not using data so it is really helpful.

That’s it! Enjoy your travel, jet-setter! ❤