Quick Dip at Mansion Garden Hotel Subic

Hello everybody! It has been a long time since I posted here.  I decided to make a Youtube channel last year hence I have been active there but I still check this site from time to time. 

Youtube Channel : Tin Manigo Vlogs

A week ago, I went swimming with my friends. I initially planned to make an outdoor vlog but  I dont't have a camera yet and my phone's memory is full, I wasn't able to capture videos of our stay. 

Soooo, I will just share here one of my favorite place in my city. If you are visiting Subic and looking for a good place to stay. I highly recommend Mansion Garden Hotel. 

This is my go to place when I'm craving for my favorite seafood pasta. They serve delicious meals for a reasonable price. 

Another best in this hotel is their spa. I used to go here with an old friend to get a massage. The fee is a little higher compare to others but I think the service is worth your money. 

If you are living nearby like us, and looking for a place to relax and unwind with family or friends. Their pool is open for non-guest. But you have to give them a call beforehand to make sure they can accommodate you. The availability of the pool depends on the number of their guests. But since we are still on pandemic , they are most likely not busy.

There will be a temperature check upon entering the hotel and a contact tracing slip to fill up. 

Entrance fee is P400/pax. 

(200 for the pool and 200 for the food.)

Pool hours is 7:00AM to 10:00PM. 

Towels are not provided.

Toilet and shower area are clean. The staff are friendly and will be around  whenever you need something. The area is well maintained and quiet. 

Their room rates starts from P3000 up. Complete with basic amenities from restaurant and coffee shop,  massage and spa, function room, outdoor pool and a gym. They are basically near everything. 

Located at :  Dewey Avenue corner Bonifacio St. Subic Bay Freeport Zone, Olongapo, Zambales.

For bookings and queries, you may visit their website

website : Mansiongardenhotel

Facebook : Mansion Garden Hotel

Happy New Year Everyone!!!!!

Budget USB Headset for Online Teaching | Rapoo H120

Price : P795.00 
Where to Buy : Octagon

Features

- USB output

- multi-function controller

- noise reducing adjustable microphone

- HD voice call

- shareable 3.5audio port

Pros:

Price: 

- works as good as other USB headset but cheaper.

Mic: 

-it does reduce noise in the background. I have no complaint from my students even though I'm using a noisy ceiling fan. 

- Just make sure to set your mic in a low setting and disable other mic from laptop or camera.

Hardware:

- one of the reasons I bought it is because of its leather ear cap. It will probably last longer than ear caps made of foam. 

- I take extra care by not using it when my hair is wet as much as possible. No peeling or whatever  so far. 

Cons:

- mute button is not user friendly. You can't tell if its on or off. I always have to look at the mic icon on my screen which is not useful because our platform is slow sometimes.

- Although it's comfortable and lightweight, I don't like the fit. I feel like its too wide maybe because of its bulky speakers.

I highly recommend this headset. I've been using this for more than two months, and I'm really satisfied. Ideal for teaching, but just like others it cannot totally cancel high pitch noise from roosters, barking dogs and crying babies. What I do is always apologize to my students to avoid complaints/bad ratings, it works most of the time. :))

DIY Cardboard Laptop Stand and How To Make It Hard Like Wood

Things needed :

For the Stand

1. Cardboard ( I used balikbayan box)

2. cutter/slicer (better the scissors) 

3. ruler

4. pen

For Hardening

1. PVA glue/ wood glue/elmers

2. brush

3. cup

4. spoon

5. water

6. newspaper

Procedure :

For the Stand

Step 1 : Draw a pattern. You may adjust the height according to your preferences. 

Step 2 : Cut it out using your cutter. 

Step 3 : Assemble the parts to make a stand. 

For Hardening

Step 1 : Mix glue and water. The ratio is 1:1. You may start with a little portion to avoid waste. 

Step 2 : Place your stand on the newspaper to avoid a mess. 

Step 3 : Apply the mixture on the top side. Let it dry. Then apply on the back side.

Step 4 : Make another mixture but this time, 2 parts of glue and 1 part of water

Step 5 : Apply the mix on the top side of the stand. Let it dry.

Step 6 : Apply another 1:1 mixture. Let it dry and enjoy your DIY stand.

Availment of 0% Tax for 2020

There are two documents needed to avail 0% tax, to be submitted  on or before January 15, 2020. Be reminded that only those with annual cumulative income below Php 250,000 will be eligible.

1. Certificate of Registration (COR)
2. Sworn Declaration (SD)

- I have chosen 8% flat rate and Bibo is my only source of income.

Step 1 : Pay Annual Registration Fee
-All you need to do is simply fill out BIR payment 0605 form then pay Php 500 to an Authorized Agent Bank (AAB).

19. 500. 00
21. 500.00
-You may download payment form online but since I don't have a printer, I went directly to my RDO instead. I told them I'm going to pay for my annual registration fee (ARF). I was given 3 copies of 0605 form and advised me to pay on their authorized agent bank. I chose PNB.

-You don't need to present any document but have your details ready. A payment slip guide is also available at the bank.

- Our COR has no expiration but  those who are unable to provide the payment by January 31 of the taxable year, may end up paying P5,000 to P20,000.


Step 2 : Notarized Sworn Declaration 
- Print SD form  and have it notarized. Fee is about Php150-250.
- You may also process this via PAO free of charge. Bring 2-3 copies of your SD and a photocopy of your I.D
- If you opted for 8% flat rate, you won't have to pay anything as long as your income will not exceed 250k.

Step 3 : Submit
You may now submit your docs online. I know many of you think it's a hassle but come to think of it. You will be tax-free for the whole year, and you will not have any worries about penalties in the future.

If you have any questions, don't hesitate to send me a message :)

Up in Shibuya Sky

Shibuya Sky is a new attraction that offers an aerial view of Tokyo from 230 meters up. Located at the rooftop of the Scramble Square. They started their operation last month, November 1/2019. A complex building for dining, shopping and entertainment. 

Opens from 9:00 am to 11:00 pm
Ticket price :  ¥2000/adult

Online reservation       :  ¥1800/adult


Sky Gate:

Upon purchasing your ticket, you will be lifted to the 14F to wait for your turn. From there, you can see  and enjoy the view of the famous Shibuya crossing. Then you will be elevated to the Sky Gate on the 46th floor. The 3D effect during the elevator ride is so cool.

For safety reasons, you will be directed to leave your bags in the locker area. A ¥100 is needed to make the lock work. Tripod and selfie sticks are prohibited.

Sky  Stage : 

You will now be allowed to enter the Sky Stage on the roof top. It is an open-air space observation deck where you can see the 360-degree view of the city. I have seen Tokyo Skytree, Tokyo Tower, Shinjuku Garden and I was lucky that Mount Fuji showed up that day. The corner with a little lower glass wall is the best spot for your snapshot, but there will be a long queue.

There is a comfortable sitting area on the other side and at the center of the square is this helipad which is also ideal for  an instragramable shot. Do not forget your sunnies if you are planning to visit in the daytime. If you are travelling solo, there are giant mirrors for you to take your selfie :)

Sky Gallery: 

If the weather didn't permit, you may still enjoy the view via Sky Gallery. I wasn't able to visit that indoor observation deck, but it looks nice based on the pictures. We opted to eat somewhere else because restaurants are already packed with customers.

How To Get There : 

Scramble Square is connected to Shibuya station. It is in front of the B6 exit on the B2 floor.

I came from Yokosuka. 

I took a train from Chuo to Shinagawa via Keikyu Line then to Shibuya via JR Yamanote line.

If you are coming from Yokohama then go to Shibuya via Toyoko Line. 

I spent about ¥1500 in my passmo card back and forth.

Shibuya station is huge, but if you know how to read and follow google map, you will be okay. Japanese are helpful, you can always ask for help. The stations also  give free access to the internet, no need to worry about your phone data not working abroad. I strongly suggest that you get familiar before leaving. Download navigation apps and read travel guides. You can find tons of it online.

“Happiness is not something ready made. It comes from your own actions.”    ― Dalai Lama XIV

Highly Rated Make-up From 100 Yen Shop

I love 100 yen shop. I always drop by whenever I get the chance. The place where I can buy without worrying about the price. These beauty products that I will be sharing  are cheap but work as good as drugstore makeup. Ideal for daily use and for women who are budget conscious like me. 

Where to buy :     Daiso, CanDo, Watts, or Seria.

Price :                   ¥100 + 10% tax or about 

1. Lip Gloss

ratings : 4.5 stars

Oil in lip moisturizing lip gloss from Art Collection. Gives your lips a natural shine without drying. Popular among students. They are actually raving about it. Although, you have to re-apply after you eat but for its price, its not too bad. I still have yet to find where to get the new shades. There are 7 to choose from. I have the red, coral and nude.

2. Eyeshadow

ratings : 4.5 stars

Mio Piccolo 2way Eye Crayon. It can be use as an eyeliner or eyeshadow.  I bought the lightest one first, to check the quality and I like it. I decided to buy more shades. It is cheap but does the job. Easy to apply and stays longer.  

There's this Japanese website that I always check for reviews and feedback called LIPS. Aside from sharing their thoughts about the product, they also share some tips on how to use it effectively. I find it useful and picked up the ones that I liked the most.

Guide 1 :

lipscosme.com

Guide 2 :

lipscosme.com

Mix and match depending on your mood or just simply apply under eye for some tear bag effect like the one below. It will brighten your eyes in an instant, its as if you were smiling. 

Guide 3 :

lipscosme.com

3. Eyebrow/ Eye Liner

 I'm also using an eyebrow and eyeliner from 100 yen shop. I got the brown liner from Daiso for ¥200. The black color is always sold out. I like it because it doesn't smudge.

These can be a perfect pasalubong for your girls. 

These are my current favorites. I use it after my Canmake multi eyebase which I bought for ¥500. How about you? What do you like to buy in 100 yen shop? I would love to hear about it :)

You don't need to buy expensive cosmetics; almost anything will do if you know how to apply it. -Dolly Parton

12 Must-Buy Japanese Makeup and Beauty Products

My Japan vacation is almost up. I would like to share these beauty products that I bought, which have positive feedback online. They are okay for acne-prone skin like me. I'm not a make-up junkie, but being surrounded by women whose skincare is a priority made me conscious about how I look. It may not be all, but mostly women from teenagers to elders are into cosmetics. There are beauty product stores everywhere. Someone told me that it's a sign of respect and part of their lifestyle. Even comfort rooms have space to retouch your make up separated from the wash area. That's how they are. 

 ¥100 = about Php 50 or technically equivalent to a dollar.

1. Saborino Morning Mask (¥ 420)

BCL Brand Saborino

 An all-in-one mask that works as face-washing, skincare, and moisturizing foundation by simply applying it to the skin for 1 minute  after waking up.

also available in a monthly packaging. 32 sheets for  ¥ 1300.

2. Cezanne Make Keep Base (¥ 600)

Cezanne

Prevent sebum shine.

Available in 2 colors. Pink beige and light blue.

SPF28 / PA ++ / No UV absorber / No fragrance / No mineral oil

3. Kate Secret Skin Maker Zero (¥ 1, 600)

ZERO skin integrated liquid foundation.
For a finish that does not feel heavy while hiding pores and irregularities.

Available in 5 shades.

30mL.  SPF18 / PA ++

4. Daiso Espoleur Concealer (¥ 100)

Works as good as drugstore cosmetics. For its price it's impressive to be ranked as one of the best under eye concealer. 

5. Kate Face Powder (¥ 1, 300)

Light and smooth skin finish loose type face powder that suppresses shine and breakage from above liquid foundation and BB cream, naturally covers and improves transparency

Choose between Glow Type & Natural Type

6. Canmake Lasting Multi-Eyebase WP (¥ 500)

Canmake Lasting Multi-Eyebase WP

Eye shadow, eyebrow, eyeliner, multi-use eye makeup base.

Tightly adheres to keep the fresh finish for a long time.

7. Kate 3D Parts Designer (¥ 1, 200)

Pencil type shading & highlight powder

[Shading] Dark beige that can be used in places where you want to add shadows or intensify

[Highlight] Pink white that can be used in areas that you want to show bright and high

8. Heroine Long and Curl Mascara Super WP (¥ 1000)

Heroine

1000

Long and lasting curl. Does not smudge. Super waterproof.

Contains eyelash beauty serum ingredients

9. Biore Make Up Remover (¥ 278)

Biore

Blend an appropriate amount (about 4 pumps) with the makeup and rinse thoroughly. This is best if you are using waterproof make eye make up.

I bought a smaller size to test if it will work on my acne prone prone skin. Will purchase again before I leave.

The bigger one cost about ¥ 1000.

10. Naturie Skin Conditioning Gel (¥ 900)

Naturie

A firmly moisturizing gel that does not feel sticky. The long lasting moisture does not feel sticky or leave an unpleasant coat over the skin and can be used for a variety of purposes. 

Use as a moisturizing serum,primer or an all in one gel and so on. Can also be used for moisturizing the body.

11. MegRhythm Steam Eye Mask (¥ 98)

MegRhythm Steam Eye Mask

 This “steam bath for the eyes” helps with deep release the tension of the day and soothes you to a comfortable and relaxed state. It is designed to warm up when the pouch is opened, so it's ready to use immediately.

Whether you're sitting up or lying down, it fits closely to the eye area.

Also available in 5 pcs for ¥ 478

12. Choosy Lip Mask Basic Series (¥ 100)

Choosy Lip Pack 

I bought it because of its cute packaging. Its a lip moisturizing mask perfect for me time. It also says that you can use it for your nipples. There are 5 scents to choose from. 

If you have any recommendations, please let me know. Thanks for checking out my blog :)

“The most beautiful makeup of a woman is passion. But cosmetics are easier to buy.”― Yves Saint Laurent

A Day in Kamakura

A day before my birthday, I was toured by a  friend who used to live in Kamakura a couple of years back. It was such a nice way to celebrate my existence. Life is good, indeed.

 It was my third visit to this city, and I just can't help but be mesmerized with its charm. It's giving me a Kyoto vibe. I felt like I don't need to go there because all I wanted to see is already here. It also used to be the capital of Japan. 

In the past, I visited Kotoku-in Temple where I saw the big Buddha statue and recently, I went to the bamboo garden of Hokokuji Temple. I am aware that Kamakura is home for shrines and temples, but  I was surprised to know that there are more to see. They are similar but majestic in their own way. Each has its own story to tell. 

Buddhism 

a religion that originally comes from South Asia, and teaches that personal spiritual improvement will lead to escape from human suffering  *Cambridge

1. Engakuji Temple

 Engakuji is a walking distance from the train station. One of the great Zen Temples of Kamakura. No wonder why its a  popular spot for autumn colors. Maple trees fill the entrance of the temple. Given it was Sunday, it's surprising that it was not that crowded when we got there.

Who wouldn't fall in love with this view? They change color starting from late November to the beginning of December. There is an entrance fee of ￥300 for adult and ￥100 for child.

The first view from the entrance is this main gate called Sanmon. You can tell it has been there for many centuries because it looks pretty old. 

There are many Buddha images and statues where you can pray and give offerings to thank Buddha and for good luck. It doesn't matter how much. 

There is a large bell in this area but I didn't get to see it because I'm not wearing  comfortable shoes. If you are going to visit, make sure to check the weather and wear appropriate gear. 

2. Kenchoji Temple

 Kenchoji is the oldest and greatest zen temple of Kamakura. I did a little hike here. It's hard to say no to its beauty. It's peaceful and relaxing. Every corner is pleasing to look at.

The entrance fee is a bit higher, but this place offers a more scenic view. They have an observation deck wherein you can see Mt. Fuji if you get lucky. It depends on the weather. They are also famous for Tenen hiking trail. It will be best to visit during autumn and spring when the temperature is not too hot or too cold. The trees are in full bloom too. 

This is Chozuya. It is used to purify yourself before entering the temple or shrine by washing hands. I did try it for the experience, and I felt cleaned. Just kidding! 

I got blisters from hiking this spot, but Mount Fuji didn't show up. Great! Ha! It was tiring but fun. Don't forget to eat beforehand because you will need a lot of energy to explore the whole place. 

Keep in mind that this is not a local park. It's a must to be respectful at all times. Always walk on the left, and I think eating is not allowed because I didn't see any food stall inside. 

3. Hachimangu Shrine

The most important shrine of Kamakura. Events are held here throughout the year. It is crowded but not noisy. There used to be an old giant Ginko tree on the side of the stairway, but it was taken down due to a storm. Its trunk is still displayed. Sorry, I forgot to take a picture. But a small tree is growing from its root. Do you see it? It's about to turn golden.

I felt excited to witness a Japanese traditional wedding. It gave me chills! It was like one of the scenes on TV. I have learned that this kind of ceremony is quite expensive. Maybe they are both from a well off family. I'm glad that it is open to the public and anybody can take pictures. 

Sake anyone? These are offers from rituals and events that happened in the shrine. The difference between these two sacred places is that the shrine has a Torii gate, while the temple has a Sanmon gate, which is bigger. There are also Buddhist images and statues in temples.

And that ends my day in Kamakura. After this tour, I can really say that this city is one of the most beautiful that I have been to. Aside from shrines and temples, there are also shopping centers, walking streets, and plenty of restaurants.  A modern city with a traditional ambiance. If you will visit Tokyo in the future, make time to see Kamakura. It's worth it. :)

“As you walk and eat and travel, be where you are. Otherwise you will miss most of your life.” -Buddha