Cutty

... to NOT fly Philippine Airlines. (Tama ba, Grammar Police?) Over the past few years, I’ve gotten better deals through Cathay Pacific and Singapore Airlines.   Even if the ticket price is more affordable, I didn’t feel that I was short-changed with the quality of service they’ve provided me. The aircraft I’ve ridden were always new.   Each seat was equipped with individual entertainment consoles.   I was frequently offered drinks and snacks.   The cabin crew was very pleasant whenever I had a request.   They always came when I needed one.   Unlike my experience here . I sincerely hope that Asia's First Airline will catch up soon.   It is such a pity that they offer pathetic service at such a high price.   Maybe someday, PAL will be sincere when they say “It was our pleasure serving you.”

That's what blurted out when I saw this... photo c/o Neiman Marcus I've been wanting to get a Gauffre for some time now.  So, when I saw this color in nylon... hay. I didn't want to get one in leather because it is too expensive AND I can't take care of leather that is too supple.  I'll just end up scratching the bag.  But I have a bag wishlist to follow.  Oh well, let's see what'll happen in Florence.

It seems that my trip is very timely.  When I arrived last week, I didn't realize that Australia is having the Financial Year End Sale.  But, it was of no use to me.   Everything is really expensive here. What I am looking forward to is the Great Singapore Sale.  Since I had to stay the night in Singapore for my connecting flight to Manila, I decided to stay a bit longer so I can explore the city.  I managed to book the latest flight in the afternoon so I had at least 6 hours to waste on Orchard Rd.  Nyehehe! Oh SIA, why do I only have 20kgs?  Sa vino pa lang kulang na.

It was a whirlwind trip, right from the start. After 10 million years, I eventually received my Australian Visa last Wednesday.   Two hours later, after talking my mother into looking after the kids while I'm gone, my ticket is ready.  Since I've been monitoring the airfare rates to Oz and back, I already knew which flights I'll be getting.   Thank God for online booking! I arrived in Adelaide on Friday morning.  I got in just in time for the long weekend.  It was the Queen's birthday, you know. While Vic was in the office, I explored the Rundle Mall and the Central Market. The following day was spent touring around Victor Harbor and Glenelg courtesy of Filipino friends.  Sunday was for hearing mass, shopping in Ikea and doing chores.  Monday was Wine Tasting day at the Barossa Wineries.  Today, Tuesday, I checked out the local outlet shops.  I have a few more days left before I head back home to my children.    ...

Two weeks ago, when Vic and I were reeling from separation anxiety, we frequently checked airline rates, just to see if we can afford to be together for just a few weeks.  When Cathay Pacific came out with US$383* for a trip to Adelaide, we decided to submit an application to the Australian Embassy. I was fortunate that the US Embassy didn't ask for any documents from me.  I was able to use those for this application.  I filled up the appropriate visa form, prepared all other proofs of income and ties to the Philippines, and had my picture taken.  I also had to secure a Manager's Check worth P4700 for the Visa Application.  Once everything was ready, I submitted it to the VIA Center in Arnaiz.  In the end, I had to pay P600 for the processing and passport delivery.  I was given a tracking number that I can use at via.ph.   Though I can have the courier pick up the application from my place, I opted to submit it personally.  There ...