Look Who Wrote On Our Lonely Planet South America On A Shoestring!

It has been a couple of weeks since TACA Airlines swooped us from Mexico City, Mexico and safely delivered us to Lima, Peru. Two weeks?! We can't believe it either. Cancun still feels like yesterday, and the aftertaste of taco al pastor still lingers on our tasted buds.

We are currently shacking in the cheapest hostal we found so far this round-the-world trip in Arequipa City, a 16 to 18-hour southbound bus ride from Lima (and more than 2,000 meters above sea level). As I lay on our dingy, seemingly unwashed sheets, I flip through the pages of our Lonely Planet South America On A Shoestring in search of economico accommodations in Puno where we're heading tomorrow.

Until this day, I am overwhelmed by the fact that we are actually using it as reference. You see, the hubby gave it as a wedding present to me. I remember feeling elated when I tore off its gift wrapper and found out what it was. But, I never assumed that we will actually explore South America someday. I just thought that it is, nonetheless, an awesome addition to my pile of dust-collecting paperbacks.

"A beat-up old car, a few dollars in the pocket, and a sense of adventure." Snapshot from Lonely Planet.
I guess you could say that I am quite obsessed with Lonely Planet's story (I became so after reading the autobiography). In case you don't know yet, the founders of this company is a married couple. Tony and Maureen Wheeler did an overland Europe-Asia-Australia trip (among the countries they crossed were Iran, Afghanistan and Pakistan) for their honeymoon in 1972 to get rid of the travel bug before "settling down".

During the 1970s, as you could imagine, information was scant. After that epic trip, a light bulb moment led to the production of their very first guide, Across Asia On The Cheap (which by the way they typed and stapled themselves at that time). Its success brought forth the establishment of Lonely Planet Publishing (its name came from misheard Space Captain lyrics which should have been "lovely planet", but Tony thought it was "lonely planet"), and a second guidebook, Southeast Asia On A Shoestring. Currently, it's the largest travel guide book publisher in the world! I reckon we all know that.

"Shervin & Gay, Best wishes on your marriage and life journey together, I hope it's as colorful as Maureen's and mine had been!" - Tony Wheeler 2009.
Now let's go back to that guide book of mine. Hubby initially didn't plan to purchase that particular copy. Months prior our wedding, he contacted Lonely Planet's headquarters in Melbourne, Australia and asked for a message from either Tony or Maureen. Surprisingly they replied, and hubby was instructed to order one of the books so Tony could write a short note on it for me. South America On A Shoestring was sort of a random choice.

It was so fortunate that the staff was able to get hold of jet-setting Tony for a quick scribble. It may be a mere autograph for him, but for me, it's a lifelong inspiration.

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Thai Money Saving Tips

Thailand is an incredibly cheap country to vacation in. Accommodation, food and transport costs are low, so it’s an ideal place for backpackers and travelers on a budget. From personal experience and from friends, family and fellow travelers I’ve picked up a bunch of tips that I thought I’d share to help you out whether you’re looking for cheap flights to Thailand or ways to save once you get there. And if anyone has anymore moneysaving Thailand tips to share, I’d love to hear them!


Flights

For most travelers the most expensive part of their trip is the flight, especially when you’re flying long haul. If you’re looking to book your flights and accommodation separately, aim to book your flights around 6 months before you plan to fly. This is when new tickets are released and fares are at their lowest – prices only increase at the last minute.

Another tip is to search using online flight specialists. Their fares can often be lower as they are online businesses with lower overheads so can pass these savings on to consumers. Check out companies that specialize in long haul trips like DialAFlight who are currently offering cheap flights to Thailand from London for £455 return this coming June.

From the airport

The chances are you’ll be landing at Suvarnabhumi Airport. There are a few ways to get into Bangkok from here, but the cheapest and most convenient is by taxi – just don’t join the taxi queue at arrivals! You’ll be charged a taxi surcharge and have to queue forever. A little trick is to hop up to departures on the top floor and grab a taxi that’s just dropped someone off – taa daa! No extra surcharge and no queuing in the heat.

Food

If you really want to save money in Thailand, just eat like the locals do. Local markets sell cheap local produce, and make the most of street food – you’ll find delicious, authentic Thai food from as little as 20 baht per meal.

Water

I save myself money on water by buying a large bottle and then refilling it at one of the many water machines dotted around the cities. You can refill for 6 baht – much cheaper than buying another bottle of water.

Accommodation

If you’re staying in Thailand for an extended period, by far the cheapest accommodation option is to rent an apartment rather than booking a hotel. You can get a small apartment on the outskirts of Bangkok for as little as £40 per month! As a general guide, accommodation up north is much cheaper than accommodation in Bangkok or on the islands.

Getting around

Taxis might be convenient, but if you want to save cash and live like a local you better get to know your bus routes. The Bangkok Mass Transit Authority site has everything you need to know to plan your journeys. They’re incredibly cheap and run all over – you can travel for as little as 8 baht per journey – just don’t expect air con.

Taxis are useful but can be expensive on the islands especially. If you do catch taxis, make sure the driver uses the meter rather than trying to negotiate a price – you’ll always get a better deal going by the meter, and it’s illegal for drivers to carry passengers without using one.

Language

My last tip? Learn as much Thai as possible. Speaking Thai means you’re far more likely to get the Thai price, not the western tourist price…



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Couchsurfing Walk-Through And Walkabout (or How We Landed On The Couchsurfing Video!)

I stumbled upon Couchsurfing's "We're Casting!" announcement four months ago on its website while I was responding to a surfer's couch request. We were then temporarily residing (and waiting for the hubby's U.S. visa application to be approved) in an artist-owned cabin by Suffolk Park's Tallow Beach in New South Wales, Australia. I don't normally lurk around my home page, but for some reason, I did that day.


Casting Call

Because Couchsurfing's first video was (and still is) successful in promoting this awesome new way of traveling (hey, it ain't just about the accommodation), the cool folks from Couchsurfing's Headquarters thought of coming up with more videos. Two videos that will show the nitty gritty of hosting and surfing, and another that will tackle about safety.

Hence, the casting call. And a casting call like no other. With scenes to be shot in Thailand, Australia, Turkey (and I believe Kenya too), the cast will depict the diversity of the Couchsurfing population.


When I saw Australia on the short list, I was like, "Oh gosh this is miiine!"... 'Til I got to the part that says "We'll get in touch if we think you're a good fit for the project.". And then I went "Ugh!". I tried my luck anyway and filled out the questionnaire

One question goes, "Why should you be in a CouchSurfing video? (Tell us what makes you awesome! This is an opportunity to shine so don't be shy about why you would be great in one of these videos)". Unsure of how to sell myself, I merely answered "I've couchsurfed single, married, pregnant and now I'm couchsurfing with my toddler."

An email arrived the next day from coordinator Heather saying they're interested! A Skype interview (by Heather herself and the director Justin) followed weeks after and the rest I guess is err, history.

Like Reality TV Stars

On shooting day, the crew arrived at my in-law's house 8:30 AM on the dot. Though they started setting up early, the actual interview began around midday and lasted for about an hour because of technical issues. In case you missed it, I just mentioned that I had an hour-long interview! Yep, that's how exhausting production can be.

Cameron, the camera guy, asking for a curtain to filter the intense sunlight.
The camera followed us around the house as if we were reality TV stars (I expected extreme close up shots, that why I uhm, cut my own bangs to cover ze zits!). It's one of the creepiest things I've experienced in like, my whole life (I was on a variety show ages ago, but yah know, the scripted kind).

Australian Walkabout Wildlife Park. They let us stroke a koala!
After the interview, we all rushed to the Australian Walkabout Wildlife Park to meet other Couchsurfers who patiently waited for us. We were almost three hours late. The events shown on the videos weren't staged. They're all real experiences. It ain't seen on any of the two videos, but the Couchsurfers we did a day trip with, we actually just met for the first time.

With Pinky, the audio tech. It's a wrap!
Several others were also interviewed while we made the most out of our free admission to the park where visitors could walk alongside emus and watch free range kangaroos (yes, their meat is for legal consumption) hop. I saw a Tasmanian devil and a dingo for the first time, and touched a koala for the first time as well! About 5-ish we had to unfortunately "pack up" for the park was about to close.

And then, we waited for a couple of months to view the outcome.

The Final Product

There's just so much heart poured into this project that's why the videos radiate with positive vibes. We only have good things to say about this hospitality network and we hope we're able to convince you to join. Play the three videos so you'll have an idea of what I've been chattering about!

What we love about hosting.
Why we think Couchsurfing's safe.
Give it a go! Here's a quickie walk-through from us.
Visit their website www.couchsurfing.org if you wanna know more and well, sign up!
"Open your mind. Open your home. Open the world." - Couchsurfing

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The Great Call Of China

Our calling came two years ago. Visuals of a snaking wall on a mountain, a "bird's nest" made of steel, a humongous portrait of a man seemingly watching over a city square, and snow - lots of snow, floated in our dreamy heads.

We took heed. Even if we're total Cheimaphobics. We arrived as honeymooners during winter, determined to conquer the cold. And then some. And we left with more than enough vivid, fond memories that could beckon us again someday. Memories that shall last a lifetime (Unbeknownst to us then, we also left with a microscopic souvenir. Like, the embryo kind.).

The itinerary I vaguely planned for our China holidays that took us from Hong Kong to Beijing to Xian and to Guangzhou in a span of eight days, was without a doubt crammed. Especially we had to travel more or less twenty hours from one city to the next via sleeper trains. If for some reason you're coincidentally doing the same insane route (I highly recommend you don't, unless you got more time in your hands.), here are some sites you could also ambitiously squeeze in such time frame - narrowed down to eight cause it's a err, lucky Chinese number.

1. The Great Wall in Badaling (Yanqing County, Beijing). The most visited of all walls, hence, the most crowded. The easiest to get to though if you're not in a tour group.


2. Tiananmen Square, Beijing. On this photo, is the iconic Tiananmen Gate which separates the square and the Forbidden City. It is the third largest city square in the world.


3. Beijing National Stadium, popularly known as the "Bird's Nest" (Olympic Green, Beijing). Can be reached via MTR. There's an admission fee to get in, but taking snapshots from outside is definitely free.


4. Visit the Beijing National Aquatics Center or the "Water Cube" while you're in the Olympic Green and do the mandatory jump shot. Okay, the mandatory part is fiction.


5. Forbidden City, Beijing. Not really a city, but a royal complex. The largest one in the world. Named so because commoners were forbidden to enter its premises during the time when emperors used the complex as their abode.


6. Great Mosque, Xian. Xian is the eastern terminus of the Silk Road. Hence the evident Islam influence in the region. This mosque was built using Chinese architectural style instead of Middle Eastern. An interesting mix of different cultures.


7. Terracotta Army, Xian. Mesmerizing funerary art. Thousands of terracotta warriors and horses eerily stand guard. An archaeological site I dreamed of visiting since I saw it featured in uhm, National Geographic.


8. Museum of the Mausoleum of the Nanyue King, Guangzhou. The silk and jade burial suit of King Zhao Mo (the owner of the tomb) is one of the museum's highlights, along with the actual tomb's chambers where visitors can walk through.


Has the great call of China reached you too?

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200 RTW Days: Altered Plans And Jotted Notes

“Certainly, travel is more than the seeing of sights; it is a change that goes on, deep and permanent, in the ideas of living.” ~ Miriam Beard
Two hundred days. That's past the halfway mark of our round-the-world vagabonding. Our country counter flashes the number three. Four and a half months in Australia, a month in U.S.A., and almost a month in Mexico where we are currently in. This exhibits the slowest of our slow travels, yet with such period, we barely scratched the surface of each country (I mean, c'mon, these three countries are ginormous!).

Chronicles shall come your way soon. Pinky swear.

And we're still smiling.
Mapping It Out

Our initial, ideal plan was to visit at least one or two countries on each continent except Antarctica (Cause yah know, we ain't got the dough for that. Yet. Ahem, optimism please.). And we agreed to select the specific countries as the trip progressed.

It was during our first week in Mexico that we decided to stash Europe on the shelf. For one, I began tailoring our world trail with that pesky thing called visa in mind. Visa free countries became our priority. So instead of spending our first week in Mexico touring the Romanian Embassy, I scheduled a handful of sightseeing day trips around the ciudad instead. Another reason why we're skipping this continent is, well, it will simply blow our budget. I guess our holidays to gran canaria would have to wait.

So where do we go from here? In a couple of days we're flying out of Mexico and into South America, then hopefully we set foot in Africa around February or March which shall be my sixth continent. The hubby's too, and our daughter Luna's fifth. We'll be back in Asia in May, but won't be around the Southeast Asia region until late July.


Notes On Nomadism

The world is our classroom. Our firsthand experiences are our teachers. Sometimes the strangers we meet, sometimes that local guide randomly assigned to us by a tour operator. And unlike in schools and universities, we won't have a graduation. No one will hand us a diploma at the end of this global schooling because it's a course that won't ever end. Heck, there's no grading system whatsoever to begin with! Cause it ain't like you land on the honor roll for topping the "been there done that" thing.

Okay, I was trying to come up with our trip stats for our 200 RTW Days reportage when these thoughts rolled in my head. I ditched the tallying because it dawned on me that, yah know, they're merely numbers. At this stage, all that matters to us are the awesome experiences and the lessons that we've learned during our 200 days of nomadism.

And we shall keep learning. Because it is, as darn cliche as it may sound, is a continuous process. Our family vagabonding made my husband and I know each other through and through. Equally important, we've discovered and are still discovering more about our own selves than ever before. Our trip also lets us literally watch our daughter grow right before our eyes, because there's no relative or nanny around to take her every now and then. So yeah, we know her from top to toe as well. Anyhoo, these stuff are like, all about us... Wait 'til I start talking about what we've learned regarding other cultures! But of course, that's saved for another post. Several posts, actually.

Every waking day, our long term goals in life become clearer. If you're part of our err, cult following, you're probably aware of how we despise setting long term goals because we live in the now. I reckon it's about time to plan. But hey, don't expect a purchased house when this whole shindig is over. It ain't anything like that. Not even close.

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Jade Guesthouse, Mexico City

Its streets boast of impressive century-old mansions. Some beautifully restored, some in a state of partial ruins. Almost every five yards there's a sari-sari store (what we call a small family owned convenience store in the Philippines) and a taqueria. In a few areas, even a pub. And occasionally a smooching couple in a corner.

Colonia Santa María la Ribera, a colonia (Mexican neighborhood) that was initially set up for rich families in the late 19th century, is where the humble Jade Guesthouse sits. One of the cheapest accommodations this side of town, but perhaps the most charming of all (and I say perhaps because we've never checked in other guesthouses within the area).

Jade Guesthouse's courtyard, just in front of our room. Luna, peekaboo!
This guesthouse owned by a French family offers only a couple of rooms. One on the ground level, and another on the second, in a building separate from the family's house. A set up that provides guests utmost privacy. A set up that can easily make anyone feel like a resident, not just a traveler. That is, if your home doesn't have a telly as well.

Our charming habitación with a very inviting cama.
Our room's basic, yet tastefully embellished with beautiful local tiles and drapes bunched up with shell-adorned ropes. There's a comfy double bed, a table and a chair, and a couple of shelves in the corner for our luggage. The bathroom may be eating up a fourth of the floor area, but because its facade does not have a wall (only drapes conceal the guests as they do the deed), the room does not feel too itsy-bitsy.

A bathroom that uhm, lacks a wall. I love the tiled vanity cabinet, and the vintage bañera.
The M$350 rate (M$330 on weekdays) does not include brekkie, however a full kitchen on the rooftop can be used by the guests. On the six days of our stay, I was on the stove every single day to cook my potful of rice and prepare for our traveling toddler's meal. We loved whiling our late mornings on that rooftop (as opposed to the courtyard) for it was the only part of the property where we were able to soak up the winter sun.

The kitchen on the rooftop.
We immensely enjoyed their dependable internet connection (which we always need for our online jobs), and we're pleased with the free purified water that I used a lot of for concocting bottles and bottles of milk formula. Our room was tidied daily, and the linens were changed after the first three nights. Fresh towels were provided everyday too, plus shampoo and liquid bath soap in cutesy glass bottles.

Crepes, omelette, fried beans and freshly baked bread for brekkie. A gift (which can also be ordered for M$50 on weekends) from the owners for our almost week-long stay.
Above all these, we're thankful for the endearing owners who hosted us like their long-lost relatives. Who sent us all the basic information we needed, and more, upon booking online. Who let us leave one of our bags in their home while we explore the other states. The wife, during our session of hanging laundered clothes on the rooftop, told me that she and her husband (their two kids too) lived in the Philippines for years. She worked for one of the biggest call centers in the country. Her hubby, who was actually born in the Philippines (I chuckled when she randomly mentioned that his first word's pusa, cat in Tagalog) managed a famous upscale salon in Makati City.

The absence of a signage adds a homey vibe to the guesthouse.
They loved the Philippines, but couldn't reside there as unemployed aliens when they quit their jobs. And that's why folks, the family ended up in Mexico, where foreigner-related policies aren't complicated. They sorta gave us this wild idea of living here someday too. But uhm, that's too wild of an idea.

The only thing the guesthouse lacks which I reckon is worth mentioning, is a room heater for the guests to use in winter. And I tell you, it could get dang cold inside the rooms, for these rooms were designed to be a refuge from sizzling Mexican summers. But hey, this won't keep us from coming back. In fact, we'll be checking in Jade Guesthouse once again just before we fly out of the country in four days!


How to get there from the airport:

1. By Metro: Terminal Aérea Metro Station on Line 5 serves Mexico City's International Airport. You need to change lines twice to get to Line 2. Alight at San Cosme Station, and from there it's a 20 minute walk to the guesthouse. 30 or more if you're carrying a heavy backpack. Fare's M$3.

2. By cab: Just outside the airport's arrival exit, there's a row of booths of legit taxi operators. M$170 for the 30-minute ride to the guesthouse. Cab driver tip, optional.

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A Trip to a Vanishing World

A guest post by Nahoma Beniga Maentz. Pinay Travel Junkie's very first. This article tells the story of how the Katutubong Filipino Project was born. A must read, and a must spread. Images captured by her husband Jacob Maentz.

Divilacan, Isabela. This part of the Philippines, so beautifully raw in its remoteness, is where I had my first (and hopefully not last) sincere encounter of this country’s first inhabitants. I have had several brushes with indigenous people before in my parent’s birthplace of Surigao, but I was naive and quite indifferent back then. Partly because of my age. I was young and couldn’t have cared less with what was happening around me. Also because no one really properly explained the indigenous peoples existence to me. In short, my idea was that they did not belong, that they lived in the mountains and wore nothing but g-strings. For someone who didn’t know any better, that picture in my mind of almost naked men and women conjure an image of a crazy group of people. The way they were treated by the “civilized” group did not help either.


I carried that thought with me for a long time until this journey to Isabela took shape. My husband Jacob, a former Peace Corps volunteer assigned in Palawan and now a full-time photographer has always shown interest in covering indigenous people. When he proposed the idea of traveling to one of the most remote parts of the country in the hopes of working with a native tribe I had my hesitations. I had thought such groups did not exist anymore. Not necessarily physically non-existent but that they have lost their so to speak “indigenousness.” The Mamanwas in Surigao have been heavily influenced by the large mining companies surrounding them. They have learned to ask for money. They have learned to love money. Even when you approach them and politely ask if you could take their portraits, they will ask for money. Everything now has a price tag for them.


Good thing he was relentless in telling me how much he needed me there (to perform various tasks – as interpreter, organizer, luggage carrier, etc.). Boy, am I glad I went else I would have missed so much relearning who I truly am. A Filipino. The Filipino. And I saw an abundance of that in these Dumagats and Agtas that we met and later befriended. Everything is still fresh in my memory up to this day – the loveliness of the people, the simplicity of life, nature and man supporting each other, depending on each other. Money has little or no value at all. It took me back to a world hundreds of years ago and at the same time, took me back inwards. I only have to think of them and I get my jolt of inspiration when I need it.


I have always been a proud citizen of this country despite the negative images oftentimes portrayed by fellow citizens. That one particular trip however, made me even prouder. Because I have found my roots. As authentic as it can ever get. And it is a beautiful culture, a beautiful world.Unfortunately, a constant threat is hovering over these people and their land, and time may come when everything about them and their way of life will change. Big businesses, always on the look-out for more resources can barge in at any time. Likewise, if the Dumagats or Agtas wanted a ‘better life’ outside of their place, they would have long been gone. But they are there simply because they want to remain there. That is their land. That is their way of life. This very idea of ‘modernizing’ them breaks my heart. If and when that happens, what I’ve seen and come to love will surely vanish. No doubt, I will also lose a huge chunk of myself.


With such thoughts on our minds upon returning home, Jacob and I came up with an idea to bring about awareness to these cultures. We know that not everyone is familiar of them and their existence. It is a very modern world we live in, but we believe that this project can greatly benefit us, our children and our children’s children. That through photographs, we may always have something to look back with regards to our heritages. With pride.
May it never be lost.


You can read more about the Katutubong Filipino Project that we have initiated at www.katutuboproject.org. We also need help in spreading the word about our Kickstarter campaign which is helping to raise funds for the Katutubong Filipino Project. Please take some time to watch our video and help us spread the word: http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/869942434/katutubong-filipino-project-vanishing-indigenous-c

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Próspero Año Nuevo

I assumed that the faint knock on our slightly ajar door was from the housekeeping lady. It was a man's voice I heard however, and he only spoke Spanish to Shervin. I was able to make out a few words which included "señor" and "comida". The mere mention of comida, the Spanish word for lunch and also food, made me jump off the bed.

The invitation was timely. We were just about to head out for a meal.

The owner did not speak a single English word. While Shervin could only say gracias.
The owner of Hotel Regional in Palenque led us to a long table temporarily set up at the hall just across our room. He asked Shervin and me to sit while he served us a meal of chicken and (to my delight) rice. He and his wife laid food portions for the other people as well, who I mostly recognized as the hostel staff. Such kind gesture to serve the workers who serve them.

Top: Dessert #2, a whole peach swimming in what seems to be unsweetened condensed milk. Left: Chicken dish that resembles the Filipino afritada Right: Dessert #1, a moist flan-ish cake.
Like in my home country Philippines, a prayer was a prelude to our home-cooked feast. The comida was fantastic, though could have been more wonderful had there been actual conversations as opposed to an exchange of lone words such as:

Shervin: Familia (pertaining to the group)?
Owner: Trabajo.

We excused ourselves with our sincerest muchas gracias when the chatter dropped its merriness and picked up a business tone.

Win these! Left: Shot glass from Puebla, Puebla. Beside it is our New Year eve drink, a cappuccino-flavored mezcal. Right: Leather bookmark from Palenque, Chipas. Pardon me, but I just gotta show one of the fake nails I bought here. First time I ever wore those stick-ons and I feel like a cougar in a Mexican telenovela.
Six hours later, we had dinner at Lonely Planet recommended Mara's (which didn't disappoint) and went back straight to our hostel after. We decided to spend the last night of the year low-key. It's an hour into 2012 right now and I could still hear the noise of the owner's family celebrating the New Year from the hall. Though I'm slightly tempted to take a peek at their shindig, I chose to stay in bed and do some blonking (blogging while drinking). Beside my slumbering Luna. And my husband who's watching a Naruto episode.

An epic ender for 2011, I must say.

And oh, 2012 kicks off awesomely with a giveaway! I got a shot glass and a leather bookmark (yah know, lightweight stuff I could easily carry around a few more countries before flying back home) up for grabs. Joining is uber easy! Simply post your fave Pinay Travel Junkie 2011 blog post's title and URL on your wall. Don't forget to tag Pinay Travel Junkie so I'd be notified of your entry.

Nope, it doesn't have to be verbatim.
Luna will pick the winner via rolled up bits of paper with the contestants' names. We're old school like that. Note: Prizes will be sent when we've arrived in the Philippines (yes, contest open to Philippine residents only) after our trip, roughly half a year from now. If for some reason your prize gets lost/stolen/destroyed, I'll search for another cool souvenir from some other country as replacement. Winners will be announced on January 15.

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Photo Essay: The Venetian and City of Dreams, Macau

It's "the most wonderful time of the year" and we're miles away from home. Christmas in Oaxaca City, Mexico sort of resembles that of the Philippines'. Unfortunately, instead of getting rid of this nasty thing called homesickness, the merry atmosphere on the eve of the 24th aggravated it further more. Watching families stroll together around the zocalo made me miss my family so much... The feeling now actually hurts.

What I miss most, their smiles.
I find browsing through our Macau trip photos therapeutic, that's why despite the holiday fever, I had the drive to resume my Meet My Backpacking Folks Series. Remember the day when we transferred from century-Old SanVa Hospederia to the more swanky Pousada De Coloane Beach Hotel? Well, we resisted the urge to swim in a deep sea of blankets and everyone quickly took turns in the shower (cause SanVa Hospederia's bathrooms made us cringe, none of us bothered to do so when we arrived in Macau the night before).

At about 4:00 in the afternoon, after much barking at everybody like some military officer reminding his soldiers of their schedule, we finally headed out.

The whole gang waiting for the bus.
A long walk from the bus stop to The Venetian's main entrance. Mum all sweaty, can be seen here removing her cardigan. Modelesque. Turned this pavement into a catwalk.
The folks marveled at every eye-catching design, and there were uhm, tons!
Gambling ain't for you? How about shopping? Neither of the two attracted us, but a quick walk by the Grand Canal was pretty entertaining.
According to Wikipedia, "The Venetian also boasts the largest number of Filipino gondoleers in the world". K! Sorry, did I miss the punchline?
Cotai Strip's skyline.
About to cross the street toward the City of Dreams.
Inside the City of Dreams' 360° Bubble Theatre.
The Dragon's Treasure (what we came here for) is a 10-minute visual treat. Mom just kept saying "Wow!".
Capped off the night with a dinner at the City of Dreams' food court. I sooo dig this funky ceiling!
Thankfully our first whole day in Macau went by without much bickering between me and my mom family members. This was what the family needed at that time, a breather. A break from stress brought about by conventional routine. Oh how I wish they are with us right now, routineless too.

Macau Series: Meet My Backpacking Folks

Meet My Backpacking Folks
Century-Old SanVa Hospederia
Largo Do Senado: And The Family Chaos Continues
Review: Pousada De Coloane Beach Hotel

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