The ANA Pikachu Jet Experience

A Little Back Story

Sana Pikachu jet masakyan natin.” (I hope we’d ride the Pikachu jet) Aya-chan told me weeks prior.

We booked our flights in advance, as early as August 2024. We were lucky enough buy ourselves seats to the prestigious All Nippon Airways bound for New Chitose International (CTS) in Hokkaido via Tokyo Haneda (HND) for a cheaper deal. Normally, ANA’s flights from Manila would cost from PHP 40,000 for a round trip fare. But we were lucky enough to get ours for PHP 18,000 for two legs of flights round trip.

Now came the day of our flight. I was monitoring the whereabouts of ANA’s Pikachu Jet (JA894A) for the past couple of days and it came to my realization that it hasn’t landed in Manila International (MNL) for the past ten days. “Mukhang may chance.” (Looks like we have a chance), I teasingly told Aya-chan. It has been in Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, New Delhi, Jakarta, Bangkok, and other Asian cities, but not in Manila. On the day of our flight, I was surprised to see that NH819 from HND to MNL assigned JA894A on the day of our flight.

“Mimi!” I screamed.

“Ano!?” She responded.

I immediately showed her my phone, which showed NH869’s track and the aircraft assigned. She was happy to see ANA’s Pikachu jet on my phone’s screen.

“Legit?” She asked.

“Of course! There’s no way we’re going to use another aircraft. ANA only flies twice daily to Manila. One from Haneda and one from Narita. JA894A never lands at Narita! I’m 100% absolute!” I responded.

“OMG. Looks like everything is going according to plan. Thank you, Lord!” She screamed.

ANA's Boeing 787-9, with tail number JA894A, flies around Asian cities serviced by ANA. Photo from ANA's website.

The Flight

Our flight is scheduled to depart at 2:50 PM. Check-in counters open exactly three hours before. However, they open an hour earlier to accommodate a smoother check-in for priority passengers. The check-in process itself was a breeze. For our flight, we were allowed to check-in two pieces of 23kg each. The process took less than half an hour from the queue to the counters.

Our journey forward also took less time than expected. Passing through immigration and final security check, we found our way towards the boarding gate.

After about an hour of waiting, we were able to board our flight. It took just about 20 minutes to get everyone aboard.

JA894A as NH869 arriving in Manila (MNL) from Tokyo (HND).
We're now ready to board NH870 for Tokyo Haneda (HND)!
Pokemon livery on ANA's Boeing 787-9.
Modified Pokemon headrest covers
Safety video
The safety video showcases the standard information typically found in airline safety briefings, but with a creative twist featuring beloved Pokémon characters. Iconic figures like Pikachu, Machamp, and Jigglypuff guide passengers through important safety procedures, such as how to use seatbelts, locate emergency exits, and follow instructions from the crew. The playful animations and familiar faces add an engaging element to the otherwise routine safety message, ensuring that viewers not only understand the essential information but also enjoy the experience.
 
In-flight entertainment
The in-flight entertainment offered on the ANA Pikachu Jet aligns with the standard selection available on other ANA aircraft. It features a range of options, including Japanese and international films, some episodes from TV series, news, and sports. We found it to be quite enjoyable during our 4-hour flight from Manila.

Food and Beverages
The food served during our flight met the expectations associated with a full-service airline. During the 4-hour journey, we enjoyed a thoughtfully prepared meal that featured cold soba, a fresh salad, fruit, and ice cream. I opted for the curry katsu as my main course, and I found the overall quality of the food to be very commendable.

Souvenirs
Lastly, let’s discuss the souvenirs we received on our flight. Just a few minutes before our scheduled landing, the cabin crew, who were wearing aprons inspired by Pokémon in vibrant shades of pink and blue, came around to distribute special tokens to all the passengers. Each envelope contained a Boarding Certificate, which served as a unique memento of our flight, along with a colorful commemorative sticker. Additionally, we received a kifuda, a beautifully crafted Japanese wooden tag engraved with an adorable image of Pikachu, making it a delightful keepsake to remember our time with ANA’s Pikachu Jet.

Other Currently Active Pokémon-Livery Jets
ANA’s Boeing 787-9, known as the Pikachu Jet, operates flights to various cities in Asia and Australia, including Manila, Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, Bangkok, Ho Chi Minh City, Perth, and more. In addition to the 787, ANA also has a Boeing 777 featuring Pokémon livery, called the Eevee Jet. This jet services destinations in America, such as Chicago, Honolulu, and Los Angeles, as well as flights to London.

In addition to ANA, several other airlines have Pokémon Air Adventures livery. These include Japan’s Solaseed Air, AirDo, Skymark Airlines, Singapore’s Scoot, Taiwan’s China Airlines, and South Korea’s T’Way Airlines.

Now that we’ve experienced one, let’s make it a bucket list to fly on these Pokémon-themed jets, shall we?

Two Hours in Okayama

Okayama was a delightful surprise. We had initially pictured it as a quaint little village. Still, it turned out to be a bustling city with towering establishments, an efficient transport system, and many attractions waiting to be explored.

Okayama City, the capital of Okayama prefecture, is conveniently located about 180 kilometers southwest of Osaka. The journey from Shin-Osaka station by Shinkansen is a mere 30 minutes, passing through the heritage cities of Kobe and Himeji. Upon arrival at Okayama station, it’s easily linked to a bus stop that can take you to different parts of the city. The city also operates trams, making it a breeze to navigate and explore.

Finally. We're in Okayama!

Okayama City exudes a unique charm, much like Himeji and Kobe. It’s a bustling city but not as chaotic and overwhelming as Tokyo and Osaka. It’s not as loud, not as vibrant and colorful. Yet, there’s something about Japanese cities that sets them apart from each other, and Okayama’s charm is something you’ll want to experience for yourself.

The scenes around JR Okayama Station.
Trams operate day and night for the regulars. Unfortunately, for us, we weren't able to try using these trams.

We took a bus to the city’s most visited attraction. The Okayama Castle, built in the mid-1300s as a keep to Okayama’s most prominent feudal lords over the centuries, stands tall as a reconstructed castle as the original was burned down during World War II. Bus fares from JR Okayama Station to Okayama Castle costs JPY 210 one way.

The castle is separated to the mainland by a moat. After a 5-minute walk from the bus stop, a well-lit concrete bridge will bring you to the castle’s grounds. There’s quite of a climb to the castle. However, once you’re done with all the walking and the climbing, the view of the castle, especially at night, will be totally worth every step.

The bridge across the moat illuminated by paper lanterns..

 We were unfortunate that we arrived around 6 in the evening that day. The castle museum is open to public from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM and costs JPY 400 to enter for adults and JPY 100 for students. They also give discounts for groups of 20 or more. Refer to the price list below for the ticket prices (as of December 2024).

Verdict. Is Okayama City worth visiting as a tourist?

Absolutely! Aya-chan and I’s biggest regret that time was we weren’t able to allot more time to explore the city. If you’re visiting Kansai and you’re planning to go on a side-trip to Hyogo and Okayama prefectures, make sure to allot ample time to explore the wonders of these prefectures. A whole day or two would probably suffice. We’ll probably come back someday.

The White Heron of Himeji

On our recent trip in the Kansai region, we decided to go on a side trip to Himeji. Nestled approximately 102 kilometers southwest of Osaka, this city is easily accessible by Shinkansen, taking only a mere 20-minute journey. The quick ride offered us beautiful views of the surrounding countryside, setting the stage for our exploration of Himeji’s renowned landmarks.

Ayacchan and I bought some onigiri and green tea to enjoy on our journey. Just a couple of minutes after finishing our quick snacks, while trying to get a more comfortable position to have a quick doze, the PA started making announcements:

Arriving at Himeji Station“.

We stared at each other.

Our seats are just starting to heat up.”

That was quick.”

Table of Contents

Himeji City

Himeji City is situated in the Hyogo prefecture of the Kansai region in the southern central part of Japan’s main island, Honshu. The city is only a 15- to 20-minute Shinkansen ride from Shin-Osaka Station.

Himeji is one of Japan’s cities where city buses are the primary mode of transportation for getting around. The city also has a network of railways operated mainly by Japan Rail (JR) and Sanyo Electric. If you are traveling from Osaka via the Shinkansen, the main attraction—Himeji Castle—is just a 3-minute bus ride from Himeji Shinkansen Station. Alternatively, you can walk to the castle; it’s only a 900-meter distance from the station, which will take about 15 to 20 minutes.

We walked out of the Himeji Shinkansen Station and were welcomed by a shopping mall linked to the station. We didn’t waste any time and looked for the nearest bus stop, which was located directly in front of the station.

See the castle at the end of the road?

Walking to the Castle

What we love about Japan is whatever it takes or however long the walk is, it’s always a pleasure to walk around the streets of Japan. Himeji, just like most Japanese cities, is clean and pedestrian-friendly. The road immediately next to the castle’s walls are lined with a stretch of willow trees and a moat. A concrete bridge connecting the main road will let you cross across the moat towards the castle gates.

From the gate, it’s a 15-minute walk towards the castle’s main keep. You won’t have to worry, however, since the views inside the complex is truly admirable. We were lucky to catch the autumn views of the castle complex so we took our time walking towards the castle’s main keep, serially stopping by any picturesque location to take photos and to just simply admire the view.

We reached the gate of the main keep where the ticket booth is. Normally, admission fees to the main keep costs JPY 1,000 for adults and JPY 300 for children. But how lucky are we to make it there just in time for the castle’s anniversary of its induction as a UNESCO World Heritage Site? For this cause, entrance fees were waived during our visit.

The White Heron of Himeji

The majestic White Heron welcomed us.

Himeji Castle, a stunning example of intricate Japanese architecture, was originally constructed in 1333 as a three-tiered fortress. Throughout its history, the castle endured several phases of destruction due to feudal battles and wars that marked the era. The Himeji Castle Complex that we admire today was built in the mid-1500s when the daimyo Ieyasu Tokugawa entrusted the hill on which it stands to his son-in-law. This gesture was a reward for his loyal support during intense military conflicts, solidifying both their bond and the castle’s significance in Japanese history.

Himeji Castle, often called the “White Heron” castle, derives its nickname from its stunning white walls that evoke the image of a graceful heron soaring through the sky. This magnificent fortress is a shining example of Japanese architecture and design, characterized by its elegant curves and intricate wooden structures. Nestled atop a hill and surrounded by serene gardens, Himeji Castle stands as one of Japan’s three premier castles, along with the historic Matsumoto Castle and the formidable Kumamoto Castle. Its beauty and historical significance make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Japan’s rich cultural heritage.

As you enter the main keep, you will be required to remove your shoes. The staff will provide you with a plastic bag to carry them as you explore further. Prepare to ascend six levels, navigating through medieval Japanese staircases and walkways worn by time and history, each varying in height and width. Each level offers a glimpse into the past, alongside the rich history and artistry of traditional Japanese architecture.

Should we go all the way up?” The severely anemic Ayacchan asked.

I think so. It’ll be a waste if we didn’t.” I replied.

We climbed to the top, taking short breaks on each floor to catch our breath. I wish we had done something similar at Osaka Castle—experiencing the authentic interiors and feeling as if we were transported back to Feudal Japan.

We arrived at the top floor, the smallest of the six levels in terms of floor area. On this floor, a shrine has been established for visitors to offer their prayers. Additionally, there are windows all around that provide a full 360-degree view of Himeji City and the castle grounds.

The Descent

The descent was no easier than the ascent. As you go down the delicate staircases of the castle, your knees will shake, attempting to defy the forces of gravity. Nevertheless, the journey inside the castle was worth every moment.

As soon as you step outside, you’ll be greeted by a close-up view of the majestic castle’s facade. Take a moment to rest, as the journey inside the castle was quite exhausting. Enjoy the scenery and the refreshing breeze as you admire the stunning castle from the outside.

Aftermath

On our way out, we stumbled upon a small souvenir shop where we bought some quick drinks and omiyage (souvenirs). After that, we continued our walk back to the spot where we had disembarked from the bus. We were looking for a place to grab a quick meal since the exhausting trip inside the castle had drained our energy. A few hundred meters away from the castle, we discovered a sushi bar. At first, we hesitated to enter because we were unsure if they would accept foreigners. However, an ojii-san (grandpa) came out of the store, greeted us warmly, and invited us in.

The sushiya is called “Benkei.” (Feel free to Google for more photos, as we weren’t able to take many inside.) It is run solely by an adorable elderly couple in their 70s. They served us a full 8-course sushi meal, which included an autumn soup, a salad, and o-cha (tea). We paid JPY 2,000 per person. Given the quality and authenticity of the sushi, it was definitely worth it.

Verdict

It’s already past 3 PM when we finished our sushi. We walked a few minutes more back to the Himeji Shinkansen Station to catch the next train to Okayama. Along the way, we were greeted by a rainbow. We took our time and took photos despite the rush since the sun sets at 4:45 PM and we have an Okayama Castle to catch.

Is Himeji Castle worth visiting?

Absolutely! If you have an interest in Japanese culture and history, visiting Himeji Castle is a must. The inside of the castle offers a unique experience that you won’t find at Osaka Castle.

In my opinion, the best times to visit Himeji Castle are during autumn or spring when the foliage is vibrant and colorful. Additionally, the castle hosts special events like the Himeji Otamae Illumination and the Momiji-e Autumn Event at Koko-en Garden.

 

 

Tokyo Series: Akihabara’s Pokemons and Claw Machines

The following day, we decided to maximize our time and visit two exciting places. Included on our list was Akihabara a.k.a. AKIBA, famously known as Tokyo’s “Electric City.” Located at Chiyoda City in northeast Tokyo, it is a paradise for tech enthusiasts, gamers, and otakus.

We hopped on the Metro and took a quick stop at Nihonbashi. The area is home to the Nihonbashi Takashimaya Shopping Center, where we headed straight to the Pokemon Center DX nestled on the 5th floor of their annex building. The store boasts an impressive array of Pokemon merchandise, from plushies to trading cards, making it a must-visit for any Pokemon fan. Hoshino-chan and I relished in the opportunity to leisurely explore the shop with our primary mission in mind which is to snag a Mimikyu plush to add to our growing collection. We weren’t able to resist picking up a few items for our friends as well. The atmosphere was bustling with excitement as fellow Pokemon enthusiasts, kids and adults alike, browsed the aisles, their faces lighting up with joy upon discovering their favorite Pokemons.

After a wonderful time spent at the Pokemon Center in Nihombashi, Hoshino-san and I decided to finally make our way to Akihabara. We were excited to explore the famous electronics district of Tokyo and immerse ourselves in the world of anime and otaku culture.

On our way out of JR Akihabara station, we stopped by a Beck’s Coffee branch located just beside the exit. We were feeling a little peckish and wanted to grab a quick snack before embarking on a full day of shopping and exploration.

As we strolled towards the seemingly endless stretch of shops that lined the streets of Akihabara, we were drawn towards Ginzo, a seemingly hidden sushi restaurant located under one of the district’s bridges. The moment we entered, we were warmly greeted by the attentive staff who immediately handed us an English menu for our convenience. The cozy ambiance of the place was accentuated by the lively chatter of the locals who were busy relishing their freshly-made sushi. The restaurant’s popularity among the locals was a testament to its excellent quality and authenticity, which we experienced firsthand with every bite of the their sushi.

As we entered the neighborhood, we were struck by the impressive towering buildings that surrounded us. The streets were bustling with activity, and we could see electronic shops like Bic Camera and Yodobashi Camera on every corner. For fans of anime and the otaku culture, there were plenty of options to choose from, including popular shops like Mandarake and Radio Center. There’s also a huge Don Quijote, a popular shop for tourists and travelers, for whatever you need.

But what truly caught our attention were the countless Gachapons and claw machines everywhere. We couldn’t resist the temptation to play, and we ended up spending a significant portion of our day trying our luck at these machines. In the end, we had spent almost 5,000 yen and had a lot of fun doing it!

“It’s okay to spend as long as you’re having fun!”

  1. Ejii-chan, 2023

The city of Tokyo boasts an intricate web of railways that interconnects each neighborhood. With a station located within reach of almost every corner of the city, navigating through the urban conglomerate is always convenient, regardless of distance. This remarkable railway system enabled us to hop from one neighborhood to another with ease.

It was another day in Tokyo but was definitely another day for keeps!

How to Apply for a Korean Visa for Professional License Holders in the Philippines as of June 2024

Getting a Korean Visa can be daunting task as there are numerous requirements that are needed to be accomplished. It can be overwhelming and intimidating especially for first time applicants.

But good news for PRC holders! The Embassy of the Republic of Korea in the Philippines simplified the visa application documents for visa applicants who are PRC holders, from February 1, 2024 to December 31, 2024. The following professions were listed: physicians, dentists, lawyers (including judge, prosecutor), certified public accountants, pharmacists, and veterinarians.

  1. Photocopy of a valid Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) Identification Card or (IBP ID for lawyers)
  2. Required Visa Application Document
  3. Latest Certificate of Employment
  4. Visa service fee of Php 900.00

Note: Submission of Bank Certificates, Bank Statements, and Income Tax Returns (ITRs) are not required for qualified PRC ID holders and their immediate family members. However, other proofs of relationship may still be required.

*Exempted documents may still be submitted if preferred

We personally went to the Korean Visa Application Center (KVAC) office for the submission of documents. We opted to go for walk in, however I would still recommend to secure a reservation thru the KVAC website to ensure your slot. Their office is open from 9:00am to 4:00pm, Monday to Friday except during Philippine and Korean Holidays, and is located at the 9th-10th floor of Brittany Hotel at 6 McKinley Parkway, Aura Complex, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City.

At the 9th floor lobby entrance, you will immediately see the receiving counter where you can ask for inquiries, and for the initial screening of documents. After document confirmation and checking, a designated number will be given for the queue. Only 1 (one) person will be allowed to go up to the 10th floor for further evaluation of the documents.

In our experience, we were immediately accommodated by the front desk personnel as walk in. Luckily, it was not crowded during our time of visit. We waited for us to be called.

On the 10th floor, Rei-san was directed to a counter where there were at least ten busy counters accommodating applicants. The lady at the counter checked all the documents and found everything complete, except for Rei-san’s Certificate of Employment (COE) details. The staff explained that his COE didn’t have a specific start date for his job. So, it’s important to ensure that your COE includes the following details:

  1. It should be an original copy
  2. Date of employment / Date hired (Ex. February 20, 2022 to present)
  3. Current position of the visa applicant
  4. Contact number and email of HR office
  5. Date issued

Rei-san had to provide another COE with the necessary details. Luckily, he was able to do this without having to go back to the visa center. Using WExpress, Rei-san sent his COE, and the KVAC confirmed receiving it 3 working days later.

Before we left, Rei-san paid the fees at the cashier on the same floor. They asked if we wanted our passports delivered for a fee of PHP 900. But because our schedules are unpredictable, we chose to pick up our passports ourselves.

Here’s the most excruciating part of the visa application… the waiting game. It took us around more than 2 weeks for our most awaited results. We read in some forums that others received theirs within a week. Some, five to ten days. On this part, we couldn’t really guarantee a time frame on when the embassy’s verdicts would come out. On your receipt, though, there’s a date that states the approximate date of the release.

By the way, you can check the visa application status thru this portal: https://www.visa.go.kr/openPage.do?MENU_ID=10301. First, click your application type (Ex. Visa Application Center). Then, input the following details: 1) Application number, 2) Passport number, 3) Name, and 4) Birth date. After entering your details, click on search. Please refer to the photo below for reference:

Final Thoughts

We went back to the KVAC to claim our passports, where we were immediately ushered straight to the Releasing window, where we got our passports and our printed Visa Grant Notice slipped into one of our passport’s pages. There were no visa stickers issued, and we found out that the Korean embassy in the Philippines ceased releasing visa vignette stickers in 2020.

We were surprised to receive a Multiple Entry visa for our first time application. We were very anxious because we’ve read about horror stories of being denied despite all the supporting documents submitted. With all the prayers and wishful thinking, we passed. Thank you, Korean Embassy.

 

Korean Visa Application Center (KVAC)
9-10/F Britanny Hotel, Aura Complex,
6 McKinley Pkwy, Taguig, Metro Manila
kvacph@visaforkorea-mn.com

 

Gangwon-do, South Korea Tour with Klook!

#alpaca

It has always been my ultimate dream as a K-drama fan to explore South Korea and meet my “Oppas”. Just kidding! Last May, we went to South Korea for a 5-day tour. This trip was supposed to celebrate Ezra’s 4th year anniversary. Travelling across Seoul wasn’t enough for us plus the entire trip will never be complete if we don’t get to visit the ever-famous K-drama tourist destination — Nami Island. For a hassle-free experience, we decided to book a shared tour via Klook. The whole day tour was Php 3944 per person. It was fun and very convenient, thanks to Klook!

May is already in the beginning of summer thus the weather is becoming warmer, day by day. It’s sad that we missed out on the cherry blossom season this year. But generally, the weather was perfect for an outdoor activity.

The package tour included the following places to visit: 1) Alpaca World, 2) Gangchon Rail Bike and 3) Nami Island. It is an all-in day tour which includes the transportation via bus, entrance fees and tour guide.

1) ALPACA WORLD

Alpaca World is around 1 hour and 45 minutes away from Seoul. We waited at Myeongdong station at 7:50am for the bus pick-up. Gangwon-do is quite far, but we just slept throughout the bus ride.

The first alpaca event started at 10:10am – it is called the Alpaca Racing Challenge. We saw around 20 alpacas running and circling around the area. They’re so cute and cuddly.

After the race, they provided us with a complimentary feed for the alpacas. I think these cutesy creatures are really used to mingle with people, they tamely approach us to get food.

The Alpaca World also had other animals like deers, rabbits, ponies, squirrels, and even foxes. Unfortunately, because of the limited time we have, we weren’t able to visit all the available attractions. If you really want to fully explore the area, I would probably recommend to allot at least half a day or maybe an entire exclusive day for the whole Alpaca World experience.

Likewise, the area has a small food stall and a café if you want to grab some snacks. They sell Korean corn dogs, dumplings, coffee and a variety of juices. It is located somewhere in the middle of the place. I was literally craving to eat corn dogs during that time. So I ordered for the two of us and we really enjoyed it!

As for souvenirs, they have a small store near the entrance. We took the chance to buy an alpaca refrigerator magnet and a cute Alpaca stuffed toy!

As for my verdict, I think this is my favorite part of the tour. The Alpacas are cute, gentle and sociable. It was an awesome experience, we played with them and fed them with treats personally.

2. LUNCH AT A DAKGALBI RESTAURANT

Dakgalbi is a popular dish made up of stir-fried chicken mixed with a generous amount of melted cheese. They have this big pan set on the table, the store attendant will then cook the dish in front of you. The chicken was so flavorful and tender. The added melted cheese was such a flavor bomb!

While on our way to our next destination, the tour guide shared to us that Chuncheon area is actually famous for its poultry business.

3) GANGCHON RAIL BIKE

Gangchon Rail Bike is a 5-kilometer ride around Gangcheon area in Chuncheon, Gangwon-do. We rode a 4-person rail bike and pedaled all our way on the train track by ourselves. The bike trail will get you to see the beautiful plains and fields of Gangchon. At the same time, you’ll also pass through several artistically-designed and lighted tunnels along with different colorful themes in it. The bubble-themed tunnel was my favorite.

After the 5-kilometer bike ride, we also had a complimentary 10-minute ride in the love train on our way back to our tour bus.

4) NAMI ISLAND

The entrance for Nami Island is around KRW 16,000 for regular price (for the students and elderly, it is discounted), but if you have Discover Seoul Pass, it’ll be free. Since we booked a shared tour thru Klook, the entrance fee is already included in the tour package.

To get to the Republic of Nami Island, you need to ride on a ferry. It was a short 10-minute travel across the lake. The roundtrip ferry fares are already included in the Visa / Entrance fee.

We visited Nami Island around summer, so it was almost entirely filled with greeneries. In case you want to have a more picturesque view like autumn or winter, I think October to December are the best months to visit this island. It’s quite underwhelming for us because we’re already used to seeing green plants and trees back from our home country. That’s why, we decided to visit Nami Island again next time.

If you have watched Winter Sonata, a very popular Korean drama around 2000s, this is where the series’ filming site was located. We get to see Jun Sang and Yoo Jin’s monument and took photos for souvenir.

Nami Island is a wide area to explore. For a more convenient way of going around, you can opt to rent a bike or another option is to ride a shared caddy for a fair price.

Additionally, there are other places to visit in Gangwon-do — Petite France, Garden of the Morning Calm, Legoland and Seoraksan Nation Park. We will definitely include these destinations for our next trip.

Thank you and Happy travelling 😊

Dubai’s Museum of the Future: Was It Worth The Visit?

If you have been to Dubai, you might be curious about the oblate-shaped structure along the city’s main thoroughfare. Before I visited Dubai, I thought it was just another monument, but I was proven wrong when Aya-chan secured great deals for the museum from Klook.

Dubai’s Museum of the Future is an architectural marvel boasting a unique torus-shaped structure and windows etched with letters from a poem penned by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates and the Ruler of Dubai. The poem reflects on the enduring impact of human creativity, acknowledging that while our lives may be fleeting, our creations can leave a lasting legacy. These words have been instrumental in transforming Dubai from a small fishing village into a futuristic metropolis in the desert. They have inspired the creation of numerous more manmade marvels, such as the Burj Khalifa and Palm Jumeirah, solidifying Dubai’s reputation as a global city of innovation and creativity.

We set out for what we thought would be a short walk from our hotel to the museum. However, we ended up getting lost while searching for the pedestrian crossing that would lead us to the museum. What was supposed to be a 10-minute walk ended up taking twice as long as we struggled through the searing heat of Dubai’s summer streets at 9 am.

When we entered the museum through the revolving door, the refreshing cool air from the fully air-conditioned building greeted us. We went straight to the concierge to present the passes we had bought online. In return, the staff gave us chipped bracelets, which served as our entry passes to the museum galleries and also activated certain features and attractions.

Museum Lobby.
The Bracelets.
The Lifts.

The museum, completed in February 2022, features 5 floors of gallery space. Visitors start their journey on the 5th floor and make their way down to the first. There was a short 15-20 minute wait for the elevator, which is understandable given the expected morning crowds. 

5th Floor – OSS Hope

The Fifth Floor leads to OSS Hope, where you can explore life in space in the year 2071 and learn about how future space travel can benefit humanity. This floor features interactive control modules for you to tinker with. Additionally, there is a space suit generator where you can scan your bracelet and see your face displayed on a space suit right in front of you. This was one of the most fascinating attractions in the museum.

Interactive control modules emulating a futuristic space craft.
Probes and other interactive display.
The Space Suit Generator.

$th Floor – The HEAL Institute

The Fourth Floor is named the HEAL institute, emphasizing the future’s ecology and biodiversity and focusing on repairing, restoring, and renewing life on Earth. A specific room preserves “specimens” from the extinct ecological Earth, adding to the fascination of the museum’s galleries.

Preserved specimen from the past.
A display of the futuristic “plan” on restoring the environment.

3rd Floor – Al Waha

The Third Floor is known as “Al Waha,” which translates to “oasis” in Arabic. This gallery features a variety of therapies aimed at helping individuals connect with their senses to stay focused and grounded.

2nd Floor – Tomorrow, Today

The Second Floor gallery is titled “Tomorrow, Today”, and highlights technology that humanity would be expecting in the near future. These technologies would not just make our lives easier but would also address solutions in response to global challenges.

The last floor is the First Floor, which is dedicated to children under 10 and is named “Future Heroes”. Aya-chan and I didn’t have first-hand experience on this floor for two reasons: we didn’t qualify for the required age, and there’s a viewing balcony at the far end of the 2nd floor where you can have an unobscured bird’s eye view of Sheikh Zayed Road.

Views from the Balcony

After our tour, we grabbed a quick snack from Salt on the ground floor and strolled into the museum’s souvenir shop. Did I mention that a robot also operates a small coffee kiosk in the lobby singlehandedly? However, we didn’t experience it because Aya-chan and I hated waiting in long queues. 

The Verdict

So, was the Museum of the Future worth visiting? Or should you shy away and take photos from the outside?

Tickets cost AED 149 (Php 2,200+) from their website and from Klook. We booked a 9:00 AM tour, and the fully guided tour ended at around 11:00 AM. You can stay longer if you’d like, but we had a busy day planned, so we stuck to our schedule.

The tour was eye-opening and made me realize the potential future challenges ahead of us, along with possible solutions to global issues. I definitely think that the Museum of the Future is worth visiting. The architecture and galleries are truly impressive. I hope that in the next few years, they will add more galleries and attractions to enhance their exhibition. Overall, I found our tour truly enjoyable and enlightening.

– RA

Roaming The Streets of Myeongdong

Annyeong haseyo! South Korea has always been one of my dream destinations as a super fan of Korean dramas and oppas (oh!). To celebrate our 4th anniversary, RA and I spontaneously booked a flight to Seoul. We booked our accommodation at Myeongdong Sunshine Guesthouse, located in the heart of Myeongdong. So, we strolled its streets almost every night.

Many said Myeongdong is a tourist trap due to the high cost of goods within the district. However, Myeongdong is usually crowded with tourists and filled with various shops, souvenir items, and several cafés and restaurants. At nighttime, numerous food stalls lined its streets.

Despite being a place not recommended by many locals and tourists, I felt glad we stayed here for our first visit. I found it safer since most people roaming around are also tourists. We didn’t feel alienated. I am somewhat intimidated by the locals because of one of our encounters with a Korean bus driver who explicitly showed that he was dismayed or frustrated with us because we weren’t familiar with how Discover Seoul Pass is used for the Red Tour Bus without the exchanged ticket. Kinda shocked, but we’re very used to dealing with rudeness back in our hometown.

 

An early scenery along one of Myeongdong’s streets. The shops are still closed at 7am.

Things that you should expect at Myeongdong:


1. Food Is Expensive!

Various Korean treats and snacks are being sold at the food stalls. The stalls are only open at night until nearing midnight. The snacks are usually priced at around 10,000 won (Php 424). It’s pricey, but somehow, we enjoyed trying every Korean food that stimulated our curiosity. We just loved Hotteok, Japchae, and Korean strawberries! To compare the prices, hotteoks in Myeongdong are priced at 5,000 Korean won, while in the Namdaemun market, it’s just 3,000 won. Likewise, Korean strawberries are sold at 15,000 won, but in Namdaeumun, it’s just 8,000 won.

Being a not-so-fan of Korean food, RA became flustered about how delicious authentic Korean gastronomy is. He specifically liked the hotteoks: sweet Korean pancakes, fried chicken, and street Japchae. 

I would not recommend this place if you want to splurge on affordable Korean foods. There are markets in Seoul that are way cheaper — Namdaemun, Dongdaemun, Gwangjang or Tongin.

2. Cosmetics Stores Are Everywhere!

Of course, skincare and beauty will always be associated with Korea. You can find lots, as in LOTS of cosmetic shops left and right. They will offer you incredible deals and sale items, and you’ll absolutely feel the challenge to refuse. You may feel scammed afterward for spending 100,000 won >_<. But of course, make sure you’re going to use these products or it’s going to be a waste. My best buys here are the Aloe Vera 99% and Aloe sunscreen with SPF 50, both from Holika Holika. I ended up spending 95,000 KRW in shopping. But hey, look! Free umbrella and ten pieces of face mask sheets. I would recommend going to Olive Young store, they have the cheapest deals and you’ll be rest assured that you are buying authentic Korean skincare products. Enjoy tax-free shopping!


3. It Gets Crowded, Especially At Night

If you don’t like going to buzzing and crowded places, I think you might want to skip Myeongdong. The area is jampacked with lots of tourists looking around. Most of the shops and dining places are crowded. 


4. Twelve Storeys of Shopping at Daiso

Being a Shopee fan, I love that Myeongdong has a 12-storey Daiso store. Daiso is located near Myeongdong Station, a 12-floored building filled with affordable and adorable finds. This place is a must-visit if you love shopping for cute, cheap stuff! Each of the floor has a different category:

12th floor: Fashion, Travel and Season
11th floor: Tools, Car, Accessory Handicraft
10th floor: Gardening, Artificial Flower, Pet
9th floor: Camping, Sports
8th floor: Bath, Cleaning, Laundry
7th floor: Interior, Storage
6th floor: Tableware, Ceramic
5th floor: Food, Disposable Products
4th floor: Character, Kids, Party
3rd floor: Stationary, Digital, Wrapping
2nd floor: Beauty, Accessory
1st floor: Season, Paying Counters/Cashier

I suggest roaming starting from the top floor (12th floor) to indulge per theme. The store has an elevator to get you to the top floor.

5. It's a "Pasalubong" Haven

The whole spectacular travel would definitely not be complete without buying take-home goods. Myeongdong has a variety of stores where you can hop to: Korea Mart for food, snacks, and grocery items, HBAF for nut snacks, and Olive Young for skincare products. Btw, the Daiso store also offers cheap and yummy snacks; it’s located on the 5th floor.

HBAF is the largest nut brand in South Korea. Their almond nuts are uniquely flavored, and it is a must buy for me. Swear you will definitely love the flavors. To be specific, my favorite flavor is honey butter. I’ll also go back for these, I promise! (Please).

I got this photo very early, at 6am, so Korea Mart isn’t open yet. The store has lots of items on sale, there are also 1 plus 1 promos. Most of these items are places outside the store. But if you are looking for an amazing and affordable grocery spree, I would recommend visiting Lotte Mart instead before heading back to Incheon Airport. It is way cheaper and has a better variety. I’ll probably make another blog on this topic.

 

By chance, we made our first stop at Myeongdong Cathedral because we arrived a little early for our hotel check-in. Since we had some time to spare and the cathedral was just a few minutes away, we decided to visit it.


6. Myeongdong Has a "Secret" Quiet Place

Myeongdong cathedral is also known as the Cathedral Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception. It is the national cathedral of the Archdiocese of Seoul and is located in the Myeongdong area, Jung District. This is the mass schedule as of today, Sept 29, 2024:

Sundays: 07:00, 09:00(English), 10:00, 11:00, 12:00(Mass for the People), 16:00, 17:00, 18:00, 19:00 and 21:00(SAT 18:00, 19:00)

Mondays: 06:30, 10:00 (at Basement Shrine), 18:00

Tuesdays to Saturdays: 06:30, 10:00 (at Basement Shrine), 18:00, 19:00

 

Final Thoughts

Myeongdong area being a touristy place might challenge our pockets and wallets. But it is still a nice place to roam around, window shop if you’re on a budget, try the food from the stalls, or enjoy the view and the crowd. Happy traveling! 

 

 

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Flying to the Desert: How to travel to UAE in 2024

We had the fantastic experience of flying over a beautiful desert expanse during our recent journey. While I had the chance to fly over the Arabian desert a couple of times many years ago, those flights were in the evening, so I missed out on the chance to witness the stunning view of the desert from above during the day.

Let’s take a stroll a few weeks back.

Step 1: Book your flights. Aya-chan and I attended a Travel Expo in Pasay City with our good friend, Hani. Our main goal was to secure the best deals for flights to Dubai, and after a lot of effort, we successfully managed to book our tickets at the Emirates booth.

Step 2: Secure a visa. We booked ours through the Emirates website and got a 30-day tourist visa for AED 349. You’ll be directed through a few pages of demographics, including information on your education, profession, financial capability, and work history. There will also be a page for uploading supporting documents as well. In our case, we uploaded our roundtrip tickets, hotel accommodations, and employment/professional certificates. After less than two days, we received our visitor visa through email.

Step 3: Book an accommodation. Booking accommodations have become highly convenient in today’s age, thanks to the plethora of travel apps and websites available.

Getting Around

Dubai Metro
Dubai has a metro, which mainly services establishments along Dubai’s main thoroughfare, Sheikh Zayed Road, which is just a tiny part of UAE’s E11 highway, spanning across the Emirates from Abu Dhabi to Ras Al Khaimah. The metro is an efficient way to go around since it has stations to popular Dubai destinations like the World Trade Center, Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates, and Palm Jumeirah (via monorail). However, unfortunately, our hotel was located some 15-20 minutes away from the metro station and walking around the streets of Dubai in August. It’s like being baked inside a brick oven. So we took cabs instead.

 

Image from https://dubai-metro.me/dubai-metro-map/

Cabs and Taxi Apps
Navigating the city with this mode of transportation works best for us. It’s incredibly convenient and easily accessible. However, you should be prepared to spend some money because it’s neither cheap nor expensive. The base fare for rides is AED 5, with an additional charge of AED 1.97 per kilometer. Regardless of the distance, the minimum fare is AED 12. For example, we pay around AED 20-25 for a 7-kilometer ride from our hotel to Burj Khalifa. 

Tourist Buses
In Dubai, like in London and other major cities worldwide, you can explore the city on a hop-on-hop-off double-decker tourist bus. These buses traverse the main thoroughfares of Dubai, allowing you to visit popular attractions and landmarks at your own pace conveniently. To secure your tickets for this sightseeing experience, you can make reservations through the official Big Bus website.

Hotel Coaches and Buses
Make sure to inquire with your hotel’s concierge about the complimentary transfer services available to various popular destinations within Dubai. They will be able to provide you with information about the schedules, as well as the specific drop-off points for each location.

Organized Tours
There is a wide array of organized tours offered on Klook. We used this service for our memorable Desert Camp adventure and our day excursion to Abu Dhabi. Most tours provide roundtrip transportation to and from your hotel, meals, and a knowledgeable guided tour.

Final Thoughts

Initially, I was skeptical about Dubai after seeing mixed reviews from other Reddit travelers. However, after delving into various travel blogs and spending hours browsing through Dubai-related activities on Klook, I came across positive reviews that piqued my interest. After reading these reviews, I thought, “This could be a lot of fun.”

We have prepared individual blog posts about what we experienced in Dubai. Make sure to check them out soon!

– RA

How to Get a Japan Visa for Filipino Citizens 2024

Japan Embassy released new guidelines for acquiring a Japan Visa last June of 2024. As a Japanese culture enthusiast, I want to visit Japan as frequently as possible. I want to see all the cinematic places, enjoy the scenery, indulge in Japanese culture, and enjoy food tripping

The last time I went to Japan was in October of 2023. It was such a fantastic experience yet again for me. We stayed for a week, moving around Tokyo and Kyoto. Since RA and I are planning to go back this December, I applied this time for a MULTIPLE ENTRY Japan Visa.

This is the walk-through:

1. Prepare all the necessary documents and requirements.

  • Application form
  • Passport
  • Passport ID (validity is within six months) – 45 x 35 mm in size
  • PSA Birth Certificate and Marriage Certificate (if married) issued within one year — if it is your first time applying for a Japan Visa
  • Bank Certificate with ADB (Average Daily Balance) in the last six months or Bank Statement of the previous six months
  • Itinerary for your planned trip
  • Income Tax Return (ITR) — BIR form 2316 for employed individuals or BIR1701A for self-employed individuals/business owners
  • Certificate of Employment for employed individuals
  • Multiple Entry request form — if you’re aiming for a multiple entry visa

If you have a guarantor or sponsor for your visit, you will also need the following:

  • Guarantee letter
  • Proof of relation between the applicant and guarantor, e.g., birth certificate or photos
  • Bank Certificate of the guarantor
  • Photocopy of Tax Payment Certificate of the guarantor
  • Employment Certificate of the guarantor

For assurance, visit the Japan Embassy website (https://www.ph.emb-japan.go.jp/itpr_en/00_000035.html) or inquire through your accredited travel agency.

2. Apply through a travel agency.

It would be best to have a travel agency to process your visa application. In my case, I chose Universal Holidays, Inc. Luckily, they had an ongoing promo of PHP 500 for the multiple entry visa application processing fees. Applying through UHI was indeed a hassle-free experience since everything was done online. They have this particular app called Visa Center, which you can download through the App Store or Play Store. This app is the UHI platform where you can track and access all the visa transactions. You will need to upload all the necessary documents through the app. After that, the agent will assess if the uploaded documents are complete and ready for submission. The agent will also notify you personally (so keep your lines open) to verify the visa application and to discuss if there are changes that need to be done. Then, once they approve all the documents, they will send you an SMS and email regarding the delivery instructions. Now, you can submit the requirements at their Dusit Thani Hotel, Makati office. If you are in Metro Manila, you can book a Grab or Lalamove to bring your documents or do it through LBC if you live outside Metro Manila. You can also claim the said documents personally through their office. The submission should be within their 8 am to 3 pm schedule daily during weekdays except holidays.

UNIVERSAL HOLIDAYS, INC.
Outer ground floor, Dusit Thani Hotel, Ayala Center, Makati City, Philippines 1223
+63 (02) 8859 3829
Email: inquire@universalholidays.com
Website: https://www.universalholidays.com/

3. The Waiting Game

Your travel agency will be updating you on the progress of your application. As for UHI, you can track on the app to see if your documents have already been filed in the embassy. The usual processing time is around 1-2 weeks; this largely depends on the embassy’s workload or the number of applicants. As for my timeline:

18 July – Submitted the requirements through Grab
19 July – I received an SMS that the documents were already forwarded in the embassy
23 July – I received an SMS that my passport is ready for pick up
24 July – Applied for LBC delivery via email
25 July – I received my passport via LBC delivery. I was approved for a MULTIPLE ENTRY VISA with a 10-year validity.

Thoughts

Applying for a visa can be daunting sometimes, especially your first time. However, with the help of a travel agency, everything can be manageable. The most challenging part of the application process is accomplishing all the requirements without a mistake because a single oversight or misstep can be grounds for a visa denial. Make sure you double-check all the requirements as advised.

As for me, applying through UHI was very easy and convenient. Every step of the process was smooth and hassle-free. The most helpful thing was their app, which is easy to navigate and user-friendly.

Just a disclaimer: the contents of this post are based on my experience when I applied in July of 2024. If you have questions, browse the Japan Embassy’s website (https://www.ph.emb-japan.go.jp/itpr_en/00_000035.html) or inquire through accredited travel agencies for assurance.

Thank you for reading, and I hope you’ll get your multiple-entry visa, too! Ganbatte ne!