Making 2017 count

Gōng Xǐ Fā Cái - 恭禧发财! Four weeks into 2017, I'm celebrating my 'second' New Year. This also happens to be my sixth CNY since I joined the company, we'll call it Company M, where I'm connected with. A lot of you know that it's a Chinese-owned organization. Lucky me, this second New Year gives me a chance to write Making 2017 Count.Ü

I have been reading my 2016 year-end blog post these past couple of days and seeing the people who were with me in 2016 never fails to make me smile. Why am I saying this? I struggled the first two weeks of 2017 and I hated every minute of it. I usually am a positive and optimistic person. I easily adapt to change, except this one time. I was out of it the first few days and I am disappointed at myself for not being able to comfortably move forward with this one huge change that's happening right now. Late last year, someone I look up to and have gotten close with made a decision to choose a different path. It was a big blow for me plus other friends at work who were blessed to have gotten to know him beyond our professional lives


We were like family and it took a lot of courage for me to face the reality of his decision. I was in denial for a while, but I knew that I owe it to myself to move past this. Step 1 was to allow myself to feel sad. Pain bonded the rest of the 'family' that he left behind. Once I started to act like a grown-up about it, I started to feel better. And now my new page is filled with excitement with a pinch of anxiety. I know that things happen for a reason even if the reasons always come after. Instead of toying with ideas of leaving and running away, I look forward to discovering whatever good is there for choosing to stay. Waiting was never one of my strongest points so I hope this comes to pass soon.

It can be easy to get sucked in by these things. It can be tempting to just leave yet once you remind yourself of the bigger picture, you see how pitiful an exit running away can be. We're just human and we can easily get seduced to self-destructive pleasures. So no matter how terrible a situation is, I always make a conscious effort to choose to see the good over the bad stuff. My Chinese zodiac forecast says that 2017 isn't going to be that nice for me. I almost threw a fit when someone told me about this. You see, I have tendency to over-think so to counter this and to continue to channel my energies to being positive, there are 2 things that I'd like to do for myself through my blog this year.

Making the Year Count
This is an annual, start of the year ( or start of the Chinese New Year in my case ) goal-setting post that I am reviving. Bloggers have different names for this, but a lot of us do it. I first did mine in 2014 when I stumbled upon a link-up hosted by Kelli Murray. After 2014, I missed the next two years.Ö

Things I Love Sundays
This one is a count-your-blessings journal thing that I learned from Musings in Milan. Gratitude Journals have become a popular practice everywhere, even Oprah Winfrey has one.Ü I believe that gratitude does magic. I came across this article from Abundance & Happiness and it talked about how gratitude attracts happiness. You may want to check it out if you have extra net time, it's a good read.

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What is something you want to change or a goal you want to set for the year? How do you plan to make it happen?
If there's one thing I failed miserably at last year, that was taking care of myself. I must have gained at least 7-lbs and it got to a point when some people would bluntly tell me how I got "rounder". Of course I was annoyed and I noticed how it was affecting my confidence. I was working out but I guess it wasn't so effective because I lost discipline with what I ate. Come mid-November, when I returned from my Japan trip, that's when I decided to first cut down on junk food. Despite my thyroid troubles, as of today, my total weight loss = 4.2 pounds.

Setting the confidence issue and vanity aside, I am doing this for myself. I have no plans of getting married and have no plans of having children. If I want to live a long life and for me to make my travel dreams come true, wellness is important. I intend to continue what I'm doing right now for at least 3 more months. If I stay on track, I'm guessing I'd lose at least 10 more pounds. Then I'd go back to training to tone these muscles. Wish me luck.Ü


Many people choose a word to reflect on or live by for the year — let us know your word. How will you work on it this year?
I started to think about this way back in December, but waited until after the first few days of the year for a word that would be most meaningful to me. This transition right now has a lot to do with this. I don't think I will ever be fearless, but I would like to be able to always choose to confront my fears and to act on them in both big & small ways. I bet you're shocked with what I just wrote. My family, friends, and people around me know me to be an extra-strong woman, but guys, supergirls get scared, too.Ö For whatever it'll be, I want my heart to remain strong and my spirit to stay brave with anything that life throws at me. So friends, the word that calls out to me the strongest for 2017 is COURAGE.


I will make 2017 count by: Live in Gratitude AND Spread the Love.
Peace + Love + Good Vibes. RUSS.


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Making 2014 Count

Food Trip: The Best of 2015

Confession: Last year, I intentionally limited my food shots in Instagram and in Facebook. I guess I wanted to put a premium to which dishes are worthy of being shared and deserve the attention from online & offline friends. When I was going through my IG gallery prior to crafting this post, I wanted to do a Top 3 Food List for 2015 but it was difficult to zero in on just 3. It just wouldn't work so I decided to stretch it to 5.


I love love love food! I share this passion with every other foodie out there. While I do like to watch what I eat, I make sure that I do not deprive myself of this guilty pleasure. I can be adventurous, but I am also a creature-of-habit on days when I feel like so. If something captures my taste buds and my heart, I would often say, "Oh my gosh. I can have this every day at hindi ako magsasawa! ( Trans: I will not get tired of eating it. )"

Without further ado, aside from Wine + Cheese, Pork Adobo, and Kimchi Ramen, these were my 5 favorite go-to comfort treats slash guilty pleasures in 2015. I must have had each of them at least 7 times last year. It could be hard to believe, but they bring so much delight that it just felt like there was a party in my mouth. Some of my friends had the pleasure of enjoying these meals when they willingly gave in to my cravings. They made weekends extra special and long work-related road trips something to look forward to. They kept me sane. And obviously, they made my heart and tummy super happy that having them was almost like an affair ...

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Grilled ensaimada with Laguna cheese makes my heart smile. 😍

A photo posted by R U S S (@ruussso) on Apr 7, 2015 at 7:11am PDT

Grilled Ensaimada with Laguna Cheese by Café Mary Grace
My Favorite Branches: Alabang Town Center, SM Southmall, and Century City Mall
Girlfriend Tip: Best paired with Tea or Brewed Coffee

New Early Bird Fave: Spanish Sardines + Kesong Puti 👌

A photo posted by R U S S (@ruussso) on Sep 25, 2015 at 9:28am PDT

Spanish Sardines with Kesong Puti by Early Bird Breakfast Club
My Favorite Branch: Century City Mall • Read: #FoodTrip: Early Bird Breakfast Club
Girlfriend Tip: I always ask for butter on the side. Sinful? Yes. Delish. Definitely!

Best Mango Sago in Manila 👍

A photo posted by R U S S (@ruussso) on Aug 7, 2015 at 2:42am PDT

Mango Sago by The Hong Kong Chef Restaurant
Address: Unit 05-06 HK Sun Plaza, Macapagal Blvd, PICC Reclamation Area, Pasay
Girlfriend Tip: Try their Spinach Soup and Salt & Spicy Spareribs too.

On some days, Bulalo ( with all the litid ) is all you need 👌

A photo posted by R U S S (@ruussso) on Apr 25, 2015 at 3:46am PDT

Bulalo in Silang, Cavite
Where to Go: Glo-Ann's Restaurant & LZM Restaurant along Aguinaldo Highway
Girlfriend Tip: Fried Daing na Bangus goes well with the Bulalo.

My power breakfast earlier; so ready for everything HLURB today.

A photo posted by R U S S (@ruussso) on Apr 21, 2015 at 7:53pm PDT

An Energy Fix: Starbucks' French Toast
My Favorite Branches: Evia, NLEX Petron, Roxas Boulevard, and Victoria Towers
Girlfriend Tip: Best paired with a Short Non-Fat Caramel Macchiato at 120°

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They're all not that healthy, but trust me, we all need our treats once in a while. I hope I did not make you hungry.Ü What are your top 5 comfort treats slash guilty pleasures last year?  ☮ Peace + ❥ Love + Good Vibes. RUSS.

Love at first sight. #WONDERFUL

My 19-year old self will tell you that love at first sight is ridiculous. I never believed in it because I didn't think it was possible — but then, it just kind of happened during an unexpected and unplanned trip to the Land of the Rising Sun.

Confession: Japan was never in my list of countries to visit. Gasp.
Yes guys, this is not your typical "I have always wanted to go to Japan" story. Greece, Amsterdam, Maldives, Ireland, and Russia are in my travel bucket list but not Japan. Going there for the first time in 2014 for the wedding of a couple friend was very much last minute. I applied for my visa three weeks before the big day while everyone else attending the March wedding worked on theirs as early as December. I would have done things differently if it were one of the five countries that I am just itching to go to, but since I was not so excited about going to Japan, I did everything last minute from my putting my OOTDs together to filing my leaves, booking my flight, and packing for the trip.

First Meeting. First Glimpse.
My first everything of Japan was at Narita Airport. The moment I set foot in Japan, it was just super WOW. As in, showboat talaga sya but it has every right to be. NRT alone already gave me this travel romance vibe. Imagine what it must have been when I started to see everything else outside their airport — from the roads, to the trees, houses, buildings, and everything in between. The ride from Narita to Roppongi was a series of Ooohs, Wows, and Aaahs. If someone were sitting next to me in the Limo Bus, he / she would probably think that I were crazy. There was just this endless flow of genuine IK ( internal kilig ) all over. I was giddy and I could not help but smile. That was the effect that Japan has on me. It was that impossible to hide my excitement. I just knew that it was all over my face and there's no way to hide it. It's pretty much the same when you're super-duper in love.

A beautiful love affair
Love at first sight is not easy-to-explain. When it hits you, you just know. The feeling lingers and it doesn't go away. It's the kind of feeling that you joyfully go back to and each time, it's as if you're still in that moment. You want to know everything about it. It is the good and happy kind of addictive.Ü That's how I feel about Japan. Friends who've asked me about Japan said that I get so animated whenever I talk about it. My eyes light up and they feel that I'm on a certain kind of high that it makes them want to go Japan themselves.

It is still unbelievable how it was never in my must-see places, but when I was there — grabe, there are simply no words. If given the chance, it is one country that I definitely want to visit every year. Just last month, the universe conspired to make Osaka happen. And, guess what? I am already planning to go back in 2016. Don't get me wrong. I love my country, but I think, I have a love affair with Japan. I love everything about Japan: from the food to the bicycles & their train stations, to the complexity of their railway system, fashion, architecture, weather, their malls, the people, the subway, make-up, books in vending machines, sake, the culture, the narrow alleys, street art, how they preserve their culture and their history, their shops, even their toilets! I could go on all day and not get tired about it.

My world of wonder
It probably won't surprise you to know that Japan made it to my world of wonder list ( the other two on my list are Madonna and Linka from Captain Planet ). I like how all my senses ignite when I plan on which city in Japan I'm going to next. I find it rather fun when I think about missing my train stop and getting lost altogether in Kyoto. I get excited ordering a from a menu that doesn't have anything in English but each time, I discover a new dish that I'd want to try again. I love how challenging it always is to look for this Japanese make-up brand and it delights me when I see the sales people in the malls happy when they find out that one of the reasons that I am in their country is because of that make-up. Lucky me, I often end up bringing home tons of freebies.

And more importantly, I am grateful to live in this lifetime. Technology & the Internet have made us connected, possibly closer to each other, and the rest of the world more accessible.

Traveling has become easier, more fun, and more convenient. I hope and pray that it stays that way so I can live my dream of going to Japan each year. Or, perhaps the universe may want to surprise me again and bring me another love-at-first-sight experience. Seriously, traveling has been one of my motivators at work. Don't laugh, but the thought of it makes me get my out of bed in the morning so I won't be late for work. Whenever I think about how travelers and tourists have more options when it comes to accommodations and how how airlines continue to add more destinations to help us cross off items in our bucket lists, I just find more motivation and inspiration to not use my leaves. Lol. Just recently, I learned that Philippine Airlines will be flying to Auckland, New Zealand starting December 2015. *Hint Hint* Exciting, ain't it? Good news is, you can book now at www.philippineairlines.com.

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It's your turn to share what makes your world wonderful. What top 3 things fill your world with wonder?
Peace + ❥_Love + Spreadin' Tons of Travel Vibes. RUSS.

Crowdsource the BLISS of a #LiveFreePH

Life can be full of surprises. Often, it comes with a lot of uncertainties. One day, you're up there. Next thing you know, you're in this situation wherein you don't know what has hit you. I've made a promise to myself that while I'm still young and strong, I will plan ahead and prepare for my future. Sad to say, it's something that a lot of my 'kababayans' fail to do. I've seen it happen to some of my relatives who have worked for 10- 20- 30- years in another country and ended up going back home empty-handed. I don't want to be like them.

The future can be scary, but the good thing is, we can all prepare for it. I am glad that a lot of organizations like Sun Life have become active in creating awareness and helping a lot of Filipinos understand the value of being prepared. I fully support Sun Life's BLISS campaign as I feel that every Filipino should be able to have financial freedom. It's a long shot, but it's worth every effort.

Crowdsource the BLISS of a #LiveFreePH
How do you feel about the future? Is your family doing okay? Are the people around you hopeful or gloomy? With the Brighter Life Index: Social Sentiment or BLISS, Sun Life will show how optimism, prosperity, and the bayanihan spirit can produce a positive ripple from ourselves to our loved ones and to the community where we live.

 BLISS  is a Facebook application that aims to get the pulse of Filipinos about their current financial situation as well as their outlook for the future. "BLISS gives us the canvas to paint our #LiveFreePH campaign. Through crowdsourcing, we seek the brightest spots while also determining the areas that are in need of a bit more sunshine," explained Sun Life of Canada (Philippines), Inc. Chief Marketing Officer Mylene Lopa. "Together with the Sun Life Foundation, we will help turn dim prospects to bright opportunities.”




How BLISS happens
Harnessing the power of crowdsourcing, BLISS gathers insights directly from consumers by asking Filipinos about their current state and their outlook for the future. Responses will be collected primarily via Facebook. The results will be embodied by a map of the Philippines, where positive sentiments will be represented by sunny weather, while negative ones will be indicated by thunderstorms. This will be updated real time, with different aggregations available for viewing.

BLISS will also radiate warmth in real life, as the Sun Life Foundation pledges to match survey responses with a donation to help localities with bleak outlooks, as indicated by the stormy icons in the results map. Inspired by the practice of bayanihan (communal work), the initiative translates insight to action, via the information that will be shared by online users.

"Sun Life Foundation believes in action that is powered by insight, and we’re bringing that to the social media platform through BLISS," said Sun Life Foundation Executive Director Anne Zillah Flores. "We’re taking it further by actually responding to the gaps that will be determined. We will fund projects to help communities with bleak prospects so they can adopt a brighter outlook.”

BLISS to #LiveFreePH
From the present to the future, BLISS narrates the changing story of Filipinos from multiple points of view: self, family, and community. Income, health, and work-life balance are identified as personal concerns; food, nutrition and financial security comprise the familial territory; while access to quality education, healthcare, and livelihood opportunities are the societal factors that impact the nation as a whole. When addressed properly, these concerns can become the building blocks of a nationwide movement towards financial independence.

"From BLISS, we lay down the blueprint of #LiveFreePH – to practice foresight by being conscious of our needs while sharing the benefits of living the brighter life," Lopa said. "We hope that by working together towards financial freedom, we can create a story of a prosperous and optimistic nation, because in our journey to financial freedom, we can go far if we go together."

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Is the future something you're concerned about now? Are there any tips that you'd like to share to my readers on how to save up for the rainy days? If you have extra time, share the BLISS to help communities in need and the chance to win awesome prizes like an iPad Air. Go to http://bit.ly/1hDBxhn to begin.  ☮..Peace + ❥_Love + Good Vibes. RUSS.

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Celebrating 150 years in 2015, Sun Life Financial is a leading international financial services organization providing a diverse range of protection and wealth products and services to individuals and corporate customers. Sun Life Financial and its partners have operations in a number of markets worldwide, including Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Hong Kong, the Philippines, Japan, Indonesia, India, China, Australia, Singapore, Vietnam, Malaysia and Bermuda. As of March 31, 2015, the Sun Life Financial group of companies had total assets under management of $813 billion. For more information, visit www.sunlife.com.

South #FoodTrip: EAT, DINE, and ENJOY at Hernatto Food Hub Las Piñas

Ber months are just around the corner.Ü Everyone instantly nicer and friendlier + you won't miss the excitement that the ber months bring. Plans for vacations, family gatherings, bazaars, and parties usually start around this time. Sounds busy, eh? That's just the beauty of it. Those of you who I have been friends with for a while would remember that I always greet everyone MERRY CHRISTMAS on 01-September 1. It's an odd but rather positive habit that I have been doing for the past 10 years. It just shows how excited I get around that time.


One of the things I always look forward to during one of my favorite seasons of the year are the night food bazaars. Each year, these night food bazaars become more and more popular. And, I was delighted to learn that they're beginning to expand in the South and one of the much-anticipated night food bazaars would be the Hernatto Food Hub's  "A Southern Taste" , which will open its doors on 03-September 2015 (Thursday). They will also have a kick-off party on Friday, 04-September 2015 with invited bands, celebs, and chefs.

The Hernatto Food Hub will be open every Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays of September from 6:00 P.M. – 3:00 A.M. and it is located at the H-District in front of SM Southmall, in Las Piñas. The Hernatto Food Hub aims to tap the hearts & tummies ( yes! ) of BPO employees in the area and residents of nearby cities ( Parañaque, Muntinlupa, Pasay, Las Piñas, and possibly those in Bacoor ) who are looking for a venue where they can dine, party, and bond with friends and family during weekends.

Aside from all the food lovin' the we shall all enjoy, The Hernatto Food Hub also have other activities such as Food Wars, Best Booth Design Contest, the Next Big Foodtrepreneur, raffle, games, and entertainment. All these and more make the Hernatto Food Hub exciting and definitely a foodie's heaven.


Hernatto Food Hub envisions to not just be be like any other food bazaars or food hubs. The people behind the Hernatto Food Club takes pride in it being a masterpiece of a creative team that's committed to delivering culinary excellence. At the same time, the Hernatto Food Club aims to provide a unique and unforgettable event experience that will surely satisfy every person’s food and beverage craving — hopefully, it makes you want to come back for more!Ü

The Hernatto Food Hub is still open to accepting concessionaires, so if you are are a food entrepreneur, restaurant owner, or even a start-up business owner who wants to expand your business — the Hernatto Food Hub will be a business opportunity for you. Those interested to do sponsorships or for booking inquiries, you may get in touch with Jenica Ti at +63.917.580.9770. You may also send them an email at hernattofc@gmail.com or visit their Facebook page HernattoFC for more details.

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Are you as excited as I am with the BER months? If yes, what are you most excited about this BER season?
☮..Peace + ❥_Love + Good Vibes. RUSS.

Say hello to my new favorite #travel buddy: Comfillow

I joined my first-ever giveaway and I won!Ü
I rarely join giveaways. The ones that I find interesting are not open to PH residents and I'm left to just wish the participants good luck. Lol. Some time in April, I chanced upon this post, Comfillows: Your Travel Companion, from the blog of @TimJuls and I thought that the item that was up for grabs was cool: it was a Comfillow . I'm a huge fan of anything nice that I can use for traveling. I joined and I said that the Comfillow is going to be my travel buddy. I got super lucky ( talk about beginner's luck ) and I have been enjoying my comfy + cuddly Comfillow.

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Even daily travel should be comfortable
Comfillow made its debut in 2015. The brainchild of young entrepreneurs, the Comfillow, was started by students who were staying at a dormitory and had to travel long hours every week to reach home. With commuting, mostly through bus as their only means to get to their humble abodes, trips can get tedious and uncomfortable. Other unpleasant experiences they had to deal with include the cold bus temperature, inability to sleep due to bright light, stiff necks, muscle pains, and restlessness.

Given the struggles they have experienced on trips, these students decided to create a company that would offer products that would provide comfort, convenience, and functionality for people who travel or for those who simply want to rest well wherever. They first had few customized pillows made and only offered them to friends who also commute going home. These pillows stay true to the company’s name of being unique since they're functional neck pillows that come with a blanket + eye mask. What makes it nicer is that the eye mask could be slipped in and the blanket could be folded inside — making it a 3-in-1 multipurpose travel buddy. Because of the comfort and convenience it brings, it was later named Comfillow.

Say hello to my new favorite #travel buddy, my #Comfillow — a neck pillow with an eye mask + blanket. Joined a giveaway ( hi @tim_juls ) for the first time & I won 👍

A photo posted by R U S S (@ruussso) on May 9, 2015 at 6:51pm PDT

Rockin this #Comfillows – it's a neck pillow with a fleece blanket and eye mask. You can't just go on a road trip without it. 💙💙💙

A photo posted by R U S S (@ruussso) on Jun 26, 2015 at 3:46am PDT

Seeing that more people wanted to avail of the product, they were inspired to produce more and launch Comfillow to the market. Surpsrisingly, the pillows were well received and were appreciated by a great number of buyers. The amazing results led the team to acquire partners and expand the business. Neck pillows existing in the market today basically serve only one purpose which is to provide comfort for the head to rest and supportive area to keep the neck in position.

Take your dreams anywhere
​The company’s tagline is "Take your dreams anywhere." Dreams are often associated with good sleep. Because Comfillow is compact and portable, people who are always on the go or on the road will still be able to enjoy comfort and get some relaxation when mobile.

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Admittedly, my car is already the extension of my room. Don't worry, it's not cramped and it's still very very organized. With the very unpredictable traffic in Metro Manila and my oh-so-crazy work schedule, I've made myself a basic everyday ( and roadtrip ) travel kit and the Comfillow is now part of it. Lemme tell you why.

1) It's 3-in-1 multi-tasker like me. It has a neck pillow, a built-in fleece blanket, and an eye mask.
2) The pillow's size is just right and provides good neck support.
3) The pillow's comfortable enough that it makes long trips bearable and it helps me have a nice rest when I desperately need to doze off.
4) I've very low tolerance for cold temperature, so the built-in fleece blanket ( tucked inside the pillow ) is handy. Plus, it's so soft and cozy!
5) Comfillow comes in several fun and funky designs. You can check them out in their FB page. The one that I got is blue with polka dots.Ü
6) Comfillow is compact and doesn't eat much space.

What is your favorite everyday travel accessory?
☮..Peace + ❥_Love + Happy Travel Vibes. RUSS.

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For inquiries, here are their contact details:
✎  COMFILLOWS
☎  +63 915 4800095
✉  They do meet-ups around these areas: UST, Quezon City, and Manila

Show your love this Father's Day and every single day with TAGAI

My first order of business is to greet all the father figures, single moms, and of course, the responsible daddies out there who never fail to support, love, and protect their families a HAPPY FATHER'S DAY. You guys rock. May you all be blessed with good health, happier days, and lots of love. And, of course, if you'd get something from your kids today, that should be good right? For the kids, if you haven't gotten your pops something for Father's Day, here's a gift suggestion for the first man and the original super hero of our lives.

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Today is Father's Day and just like any other year before this one, I'm sure that some of us had a hard time choosing a gift that perfectly sums up what we feel for the first most special man in our lives. If you have no gift ideas as of now, look no further as there is a handsome gift for the motoring daddy who has taken extra care on the road for you and the rest of the family.

Say "I love you" to one of the most special guys in your life with a pair of specialized driving eye wear
Paris Miki Inc. brings you  TAGAI , a brand that brings harmonious unity between style and safety in one driving eye wear. For the dad who drives on almost a daily basis, the TAGAI Beta Diurnal Lenses eye wear is one of the ways to show that you care and appreciate him. Crafted using the original Japanese manufacturing method with the fusion technique of polarizing film and lenses, these high-end polarized lenses were created for durability. Not only that, these lenses will make day driving safer and enjoyable because it has the ability to diffuse reflections and glare.

TAGAI also offers a wide variety of frames to suit your daddy’s driving style to go with his dark grey or gold mirror lenses. The TAGAI Beta collection offers four outdoor frame designs which come in four color combinations:

» Black Matte & Red
» Grey & Black
» Red & White
» Black & Black Matte

There's no better way of expressing your love for your daddy, papa, or tatay than ensuring his safety on the road. Give him the perfect Father's Day gift this year by getting him his own pair of specialized driving eye wear. Visit www.tagai.ph or Facebook.com/tagaiphilippinesFacebook.

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Did you get your dad anything for Father's Day? How did you and your family celebrate Father's Day?
☮..Peace + ❥_Love + Good Vibes. RUSS.

Enjoying a city home & living the good life at Ortigas Center

There's nothing like having your own home. However, if going to your place of work takes forever because of the terrible traffic situation like what we always experience here in Metro Manila, chances are you'd be having breakfast and dinner in your car or you'd be going home exhausted every single working day of your life. You'll probably get five hours of sleep and if you're lucky, you'd have six.

It's not exactly fun and eventually, it's going to take a toll on your health. That's how toxic it could be if one lives in a metropolitan area. It can even be quite overwhelming for most people. Be it the tortuous traffic jams during rush hour or the rat race involved in the morning commute, these are just some of the things in the daily metropolis life that could leave you stressed and/or drained. That is why most people would prefer living in a location that minimizes the stress from the fast paced life in the metro without having to compromise productivity for leisure.


A city home will give you more time for yourself and the things you love to do
If and when the time comes that my office is not-so-close to my house, I won't have second thoughts about renting a place that's conveniently closer to my place of work. I'll tell you how financially sensible this is in another post but right now, I can assure you that this is the most practical thing to do especially for people who are always on the go.

Good thing, we now have sites and online portals that offer a wide-range of listings of properties for rent. One of which is  Rent-Ortigas . For people who work in the Ortigas area, you guys need not look further as the ideal location exists in the heart of Manila – the Ortigas Center! The now booming financial and central business district was formerly a part of the Hacienda de Mandaloyon of the Augustinian Order which was eventually sold to the company that became the Ortigas & Company, Limited Partnership. Regardless if you're a young and talented professional or somebody who's already settled and enjoying the family life, Metro Manila's second most important business district houses everything you could ever look for in an ideal location as it strikes the perfect balance between work and leisure. Home to office skyscrapers, shopping malls, restaurants and educational institutions, there is no doubt that the Ortigas Center is the place to be.


Want to start living the good life now but haven't found an apartment in Ortigas yet? No need to worry as Rent Ortigas is here to assist you in finding your new home in a simpler, faster, and safer way. Whether you are looking for a bed space for rent or an apartment for rent in Ortigas.

» Simply go online and visit www.rent-ortigas.com to view a full listing of properties up for rent.
» From there, they will securely connect you with the unit owners, brokers, and landlords and help you seal the deal.

And, if you can't find anything yet on their current listings or if you're still looking around, you may get instant updates on new property listings via their Facebook page, facebook.com/rentortigas. Start looking at their wide selection of properties that are available today and live the good life at Ortigas Center. Inquire now and make a reservation.

About Rent Ortigas
Rent Ortigas is here to assist you in the quest of finding that perfect place to call 'home' near the heart of the Ortigas Center. The team of Mirai D3sign Inc. created this user-friendly online rental marketplace to make house hunting more convenient for those looking for a new place to call ‘home’ – regardless if you are looking for a bed space for rent or an apartment for rent in Ortigas. This online service shall enable you to view the wide selection of available and affordable living spaces for rent. Not only that, we will also help you connect with the unit owners, brokers and landlords without having to about the authenticity and security of the postings.


If you can't find anything on their current selections, there's no need to worry. Rent Ortigas comes with a feature that will notify you of new listings for bed space and apartment(s) for rent in Ortigas in an instant. Sign up with Rent Ortigas and make your dream apartment in Ortigas a reality.

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Would you consider getting a city home if your place of work is far ( like far you have to wake up early every day far ) from your home?
 ☮..Peace + ❥_Love + Good Vibes. RUSS.

A healthy lifestyle + Alaska's Family Fun Run

I've been an advocate of healthy living for over 5 years now. This change in lifestyle was brought about by a thyroid condition which put me at great risk in 2008. After my surgery that year, I thought everything was going to be alright. Well, it did but little did I know that my life after the surgery will require me to exert double- triple- quadruple efforts mostly to lose pounds and maintain my ideal weight. I remember going from having a hyperthyroid and on some days it becomes under-active, which freaks me out more. I was scared that I might become obese.

I am continuously learning about everything there is to know about the thyroid. There were days when I got frustrated but eventually when I found myself accepting that it’s part of my life now ( play dramatic music now, lol ), it started to bring positive changes in me. Science has not yet found something to totally bring this whole thyroid thing of mine back-to-normal, so I found ways to cheat ( at least that’s what I think ) my thyroid condition with healthy eating, exercising instead of sitting on the couch all day watching television or spending hours on the internet, doing my best to not stress about the trivial things, et cetera. And, in the process, I have encouraged family members, relatives, friends, and some colleagues to embrace a healthier lifestyle. This becomes more fun, easier, and more encouraging when everyone in the family is at it. Yup, even children. No one is neither too young nor too old for a healthier lifestyle. Agree?

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While we health buffs are growing in numbers, it helps that there are more brands and products that promote wellness, clean living, and an active lifestyle ... and, one of these brands is Alaska. On Sunday, 31-May 2015, Alaska will hold a fun at the Mall of Asia as part of its Alaska World Milk Day celebration. Categories for the fun run are:

» 100m and 1KM for kids
» 3KM
» 3KM Family
» 5KM and 10KM

Another exciting activity that participants may look forward to this Sunday is the launching of the Milk Hour, which will happen at 6 o' clock in the morning in four different locations: Manila, Baguio, Cebu, and Davao. Milk Hour aims to promote proper nutrition for kids. I recently found out that World Milk Day is celebrated annually in many countries to provide an opportunity on milk as a global food central to health and well-being across cultures and nations, and to highlight the contributions connected to milk and the overall dairy industry. I love milk so I guess I will be celebrating with my fellow milk-lovers all over the world.

For more information about World Milk Day, you can visit www.alaskaworldmilkday.com. And, if you don't have plans yet for this weekend, do join the Alaska Family Fun Run this coming Sunday, 31-May 2015 at the Mall of Asia Concert Grounds. Encourage your family to a healthier lifestyle + to drink milk, too!Ü

Race Day:	May 31, 2015 ( Sunday )
Venue:	SM Mall of Asia Concert Grounds, Block 16 Seaside Boulevard cor. Palm Coast Avenue
Start Line:	Seaside Boulevard cor. Bayshore Avenue
Categories:	100M, 1KM, 3KM Individual, 3KM Family, 5KM, and 10KM
Online Registration:	www.alaskaworldmilkday.com
Milk Hour:	6:00AM

Are you and your family into fun runs? If not, what healthy activities does your family love to do?
 ☮..Peace + ❥_Love + Good Vibes. RUSS.

Freelance writing workshop

Writing is kind of my thing. Like events, I used to not like writing, but it seems that the more I stay away from it, the world just finds a billion and one reasons for me to write — both for work and during my free time. While it's a fact that it isn't my first love ( being a news anchor is ), it has always been one of my favorite activities to spend my leisure time. Even as a kid, I would bring my notebooks and pens with me during family vacations nd because of that, my brother thinks I'm weird. Don't get angry at him. He's just being cute ... typical little brother who pretends to not understand what his big sister is up to.Ü

No one's ever told me and I just kind of learned by myself that writing makes me happy. It has always been a good outlet and together with the snapshots I take + some layouts that I do, I've found something else other than trips that make me feel relaxed. And, some time last year I have been toying with the idea of putting this writing thing that I have to another level. I'm talking about freelance writing ( mostly for travel ) but I have yet to see if I'm cut for the job.


I was hoping to attend this workshop by Nizza Gueco, but it's just too bad that I have work on Saturdays.Ö Lemme spread the word and show some love + if you're interested or if you know someone who you think may want to start a new career as a freelance writer, then check out the deets below. You know the drill.   ☮..Peace + ❥_Love + Good Vibes. RUSS.

What:	Freelance Writing Workshop
When:	Saturday, 23-May 2015. 12:00PM to 6:00PM
Where:	QC, near Welcome Rotonda ( details will be give to attendees )
Fee:	Php1500 per slot; refer to poster for group discounts
Contact:	nizzagueco@yahoo.com + facebook.com/nizza.gueco

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You may be tired of the routine you're stuck with: wake up early to prepare for work, travel more than an hour to your office, spend 9 ( or more! ) hours doing work, clock-out tired and weary without a sense of fulfillment, travel again to go home, eat, prepare for bed, cuddle, and spend time with your family ( if you're not too tired ), get 8 hours of not-so restful sleep only to wake up early the same morning to repeat this routine. If you no longer want this kind of lifestyle, then it may be time for you to ditch that routine and become a freelance writer ... where work and play are possible.

Don't mistake this workshop to be like the ones you have attended so far. What does this workshop have that is different? Unlike, other workshops that offer general insights in being a freelancer, this workshop will guide you through everything ... step-by-step. In this workshop, you walk in an employee tired of their day job, or an employee looking for extra income, and you come out still an employee BUT with a renewed spirit and a long term freelancing job if you are chosen. If not, you still walk out with a freelancing profile that is ready to send out your first application and accept your new job.

Curious?
Here are some of the things you're sure to learn:

» Career path guidance. There are 2 types of freelancers & this workshop will help you determine which type best suits you.
» Profile creation. Know how to vamp up your profile to get yourself noticed by clients.
» Niche picking. Learn which niche or 'genre' as we call it in music will work best for you & your skills.
» Learn about the rates. Know that bidding to high won't win you the; bidding too low won't either.
» Cover letter creation
» Choosing the job
» Bidding for the job
» Know what to do when you get the job, from accepting offers and terms, to actually starting wit the job.

All these will equip you to be more competitive in the freelancing world. These will also ensure that you can start your career right after you leave the workshop.Of course, you don't walk away with just that. There are other 'bonuses' that can help with your freelancing careers.

» Know the policies & processes when it comes to withdrawing earnings
» Know which websites to register
» Get the best time management tips ( how to prevent procrastinating when you don't have a boss )
» You'll also love the productivity tips ... learn how to work smarter to finish the job in a shorter time
» And finally, how do you spend your money wisely?

Aside from the tips that you'll learn + the fun writing activities, there are pastries and a coffee buffet from Paulette's Choclettes for participants to enjoy. Participants will also receive a certificate and may get a chance to have a long term job with Do It Write Solutions.

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Visit and like their pages :)
Nizza Gueco
Paulette's Choclettes
Do It Write Solutions

CEO Rebecca Bustamante joins #AdMe Asia Digital Marketing Expo 2015

Rebecca Bustamante’s life story is a post-modern fairy tale, not the romantic kind of fairy tale, but the inspirational and success story kind that would teach anyone that hard work, the right attitude, and determination pay off.

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Considered as one of the most accomplished female entrepreneurs in Asia, Chalre Associates CEO,  Rebecca Bustamante  joins the Asia Digital Marketing Expo as one of the speakers. Chalre Associates, a multinational executive search firm with CEO Rebecca Bustamante Mills joins the upcoming Asia Digital Marketing Expo 2015 happening on 26-July 2015 at SMX Aura, Taguig, Philippines.

A beautiful story of determination & success
Rebecca Bustamante is seen as one of the most accomplished female entrepreneurs in Southeast Asia because of her struggles to succeed as then an Overseas Filipino Worker ( OFW ) and later on became the Director for Sales in a multinational cosmetics firm abroad before having her own multinational company. Rebecca Bustamante is now an inspiration to many because of her determination and for being focused to be on top of her game even just as being a household helper before. According to her, everyone can shine, in any field whether being a household or a janitor, one just need to do her best and the employer will notice.

That's why, Rebecca Bustamante, from being an OFW, because of her deep-seated motivation and drive, graduated from college while working overseas and even took and finished a masteral degree while working as an OFW. Today, she is not just an inspiration but also a mentor, motivational speaker, and the CEO of her own company.


Industry leaders who will make #AdMe 2015 more exciting
This year, Rebecca Bustamante will be one of the speakers of one of the biggest forums happening in the country, the 2015 Asia Digital Marketing Expo, wherein senior business people, high-ranking government officials, and media journalists are expected to participate in this event. Presenters of #AdMe are industry leaders engaged in momentous pursuits of significance to the ASEAN region. Aside from superwoman Rebecca Bustamante, other #AdMe speakers are:

» Constantin Roberts, Managing Director of Zalora Philippines
» Earl Valencia, Head of Corporate Development/Innovations of Smart Communications
» Kristian Melquiades, General Manager of Viber Philippines
» Richard Upton, President of John Robert Powers Asia
» Donald Lim, Chief Digital Officer of ABS-CBN
» Janette Toral, E-Commerce Advocate + Digital Club Filipino
» Carlos Celdran, Brand Ambassador & Manila's Favorite Tour Guide
» James Jimenez, Commission On Elections Director
» Jonathan Luzuriaga, President of Philippine Software Industry Association
» Kim Bernardo Lokin, Managing Editor of Business Class Magazine

With the theme: Empower, Connect, Inspire, and Learn, the highly-anticipated Asia Digital Marketing Expo 2015 ( #AdMe ) will be held at the SMX Aura, Taguig on July 26, 2015. For more info about #AdMe, you may visit www.asiadigitalmarketing.ph. For partnership and sponsorship, please contact TAG Media & PR at +63.916.6299381 or e-mail grace@asiadigitalmarketing.ph. If you want to show #AdMe some love, you may want to read my other #AdMe post.Ü

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Digital Marketing is rapidly changing the way we do things. The nice thing about is that it's not just for big businesses. Digital Marketing is for everyone and it's all about efficiently integrating it in our marketing plans. Do you have any digital marketing tip(s)to share? ☮..Peace + ❥_Love + Good Vibes. RUSS.

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Photo Credits:
1. The Philippine STAR
2. New Media Watch

Why summer is the best season of all time.

Summer makes me happy. It makes me think of the beach trips, soakin' up under the sun, sun-kissed skin, super fun times with friends, road trips, lazy ( yet the best ) afternoon strolls, piña coladas, the great outdoors, barbeques, late nights, blue skies, mojitos, majestic & breaktaking sunsets almost every day, gorgeous tans – I could go on all day. I was never a cold-weather kind of girl. And clearly, summer is one of my favorite seasons.

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As the old saying goes, we've saved the best for last, and summer is indeed the best season. People look forward to summer because it has much more to offer than the other seasons. It's always warm, the days are long, and unlike the other seasons, there is no point where it is too cold to do something.

From cookouts to vacations to swimming, summer just provides so many opportunities for things to do. After all, during what other season can you just choose a day and know that it'll probably be a nice one? No other season except summer.




And asking about the best summer bestfriend for your skin? Dermplus Moisturizing Sunblock is the answer to your skin problems this season. It is formulated with unbeatable UVA and UVB filters to protect your skin in the harsh ultraviolet radiation from the sun. Dermplus sunblock physically blocks and reflects light and it also helps heal skin damage caused by over-exposure to the sun. Dermplus Sunblock is available in different SPFs like SPF 24 that is recommended for morena skin and for indoor use, SPF 35 for fair skin and SPF 80 and 130 for extreme outdoor activities. Use Dermplus Moisturizing Sunblock and worry no more about the harmful Ultra Violet A (UVA) and Ultra Violet B (UVB) rays. Whether you will spend your summer in Boracay, Cebu, Palawan or in Bohol, never forget your number one sun defense partner.

Dermplus Moisturizing Sunblock is available in all leading drugstores, supermarkets and department stores nationwide. For more information call +632.8173303 or like Dermplus on Facebook.

Dermplus Moisturizing Sunblock is a quality product of JLC Miller & Co., Inc., an ISO 9001-2008 Certified Company..

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Do you love summer too? What are your favorite summer activities?
 ☮..Peace + ❥_Love + Good Vibes. RUSS.

Azalea Residences supports #AdMe: 2015 Asia Digital Marketing Expo

Image Credit: Start-Up Nation
Considering digital marketing, making the move to incorporate it in a business' marketing plan, and making it one of the company's priorities are important. The internet has changed the way we do things. While traditional forms of media still work, digital has brought a rapid shift with promotions and it is now considered an integral part of the marketing mix. Digital is quickly becoming the more effective and more cost-efficient way to get the message out and to communicate to customers. As a marketing practitioner, digital marketing is essential in any business regardless of how small or huge it is.

Digital is definitely the way to go and here in the Philippines, I think a lot of companies are now taking this path. Many organizations and experts in this field work together to share their knowledge and to pass on best practices that companies can use to ensure that their businesses succeed. One of the most-anticipated events happening this year is the upcoming one-day only  Asia Digital Marketing Expo 2015  that's set on 26-JULY 2015 at the new SMX Aura, in Taguig.

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One of the companies supporting this much-awaited event is Azalea Residences, a 99-suite hotel located at Leonard Wood Loop, Baguio City. Last 07-April 2015, Azalea Residences represented by Marketing Manager, Karen Castro and TAG Media & PR ( represented Engr. Grace Bondad Nicolas ) signed a partnership agreement for the upcoming Asia Digital Marketing 2015




With the theme Empower, Connect, Inspire, and Learn, #AdMe organizers are expecting a lot of participants ( mostly senior level managers ) from different companies here in the Philippines. Top executives from various corporations will also join this year’s Asia Digital Marketing Expo to share the future of online marketing in the Philippines and in the Asia Pacific region. Some points that will be discussed are:

» The digital economy of the Philippines
» Positioning the Philippines as a gateway from East to West and West to East
» Is the Philippines ready to be a cashless society?
» Disrupting tradition and embracing innovation
» Technology and entrepreneurship driving inclusive growth
» Micro-multinationals e-Commerce connecting SMEs to ASEAN and beyond

Gracing #AdMe in July and making it an event that shouldn't be missed are the biggest, and the brightest digital icons of our time ... didja see the poster?Ü After all, there’s nothing like learning from the best.

For more information on #AdMe, interested parties may visit www.asiadigitalmarketing.ph. And, for partnerships and sponsorships, please contact TAG Media & PR at +63-916-6299381 or email grace@asiadigitalmarketing.ph.

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How has digital ( marketing ) changed the way you do things for your blog? Or your business?
Do you think you can still live without it? How has it helped you?
 ☮..Peace + ❥_Love + Good Vibes. RUSS.

MTRCB launches its 2015 TV and film infomercial

I'm not a mom. I don't have kids either, but I can't stress enough on the importance of parental and/or adult supervision with the programs and shows that children watch. It is great news for me that the MTRCB ( Movie & Television Review and Classification Board ), the agency in-charge of rating and regulating movies & TV programs here in the Philippines, continues to be very aggressive in promoting shows that are kid- and family-friendly. MTRCB recently celebrated its anniversary and launched its new infomercial on 23-February 2015.

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2015 marks the 30th year of the Movie and Television Review and Classification Board ( MTRCB ). To kick off the celebration of its anniversary, MTRCB formally launched its new infomercial on 23-February 2015 at 2:00PM, MTRCB Building. Directed by renowned film and television director Jose Javier "Joey" Reyes, Jr., DGPI and conceptualized by Mr. Erlito "Lilit" Reyes, the infomercial features actors-spouses Ryan and Judy Ann Agoncillo in a typical morning situation at home. In such scene, their depicted child picks up a word from a TV feature and asks the elders in the house what it means.

The infomercial aims to challenge parents and responsible adults to be aware of the media content our children are exposed to, and to be mindful of the MTRCB's classification ratings.  Parents are also reminded that the primary duty in guiding their children as to the media the latter see still rests in them. 

Details of the infomercial were discussed by Director Joey Reyes, Ryan and Judy Ann Agoncillo, Lilit Reyes and MTRCB Board Members Bibeth Orteza and Manet Dayrit, the latter being Co-Chairpersons of the Infomercial Committee.






The launch was culminated by the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the TV Networks and theater operators to ensure showing of the infomercial and to continuously empower the general public towards discerning viewership and thus, among other objectives, inform parents as to the media and entertainment their children may see.

The infomercial will be aired in all television networks and theaters nationwide starting 25 February 2015. // Photos courtesy of Digital Media PH

Russ' 15 Travel Essentials

I am always excited to go on new adventures, but I dread having to experience travel nightmares. I know of stories of friends who lost their luggage while on a trip, missed flights, was robbed in Barcelona, got ill in Vietnam, badly sprained an ankle in Hong Kong ( um, my Mom ) and the list goes on. While I love spontaneity, a little bit of preparedness never hurts. You'll never know what could possibly happen. Traveling's supposed to be fun, right? Aberyas ( hassles ) are last stuff that I want to deal with regardless how petty they are. If triggered, it usually does this domino effect. I'm quite lucky that I rarely find myself in travel booboos. The worst, so far, happened back in 2009 but it was a force majeure kind of situation that left my friends and I stranded in a town for 2 days because of the flash floods. We laugh about it now, but I remember how scared we were back then.

These days, traveling has become easier for most of us. There are a lot of innovations that have led to better, more pleasant experiences. Through the years, I've evolved as a traveler from the teeny-bopper ala Clueless pack rat to the yuppie adventure-seeker and to the travel smart + travel light wanderer that I am now. I constantly discover new products, sites, and services that make and will make my travel life happier — e.g. my most recent discoveries, which I hope to try this year, are AirBnB and RelayRides ( I'm planning to write a separate post about them in the next few weeks ).Ü Eventually, I think these two sites will be part of my favorite travel staples like Rome2Rio, Booking.Com, and TripAdvisor.

And since we're already on the topic of travel, preparedness, and traveling smart, I'd like to share my  fifteen travel essentials . These are items that I always make sure I bring with me for a trip, whether local or outside the country. Countless times, they've saved me and have always proven to be most useful.

A. Maxi Dress
It's a very versatile piece of clothing that's lightweight and does not eat much space. For girls like me who don't wear pants that much, a maxi dress makes a safe OOTD when visiting countries that are conservative e.g. Brunei. Trust me, it also looks great in photos?Ü [ Read: Brunei Darussalam in 40-Something Hours ]

B. LBD
The LBD is another versatile piece that every woman should bring with her when traveling. It does not require much effort + it most certainly looks good with almost anything. It's easy to dress it up and it can be worn with flats, sneakers, and even strappy sandals. It's also easy to spruce your entire OOTD with minimal accessories and wear it to a chic restaurant for impromptu dinners.

C. Shawl
This is one of my favorite travel best friends. I can bring several pieces and they still won't take up luggage space. I usually have one with me because I get cold easily. Aside from using it as a "plane blanket", it also makes an awesome fashion accessory and cover-up when there's a need to cover the shoulders when in places of worship. Sometimes, I use it as bandana to protect my tresses from the heat of the sun — see here.

D. Sunnies
These need not have an explanation.Ü I sleep in the plane wearing my sunglasses. Do you do that too?

E. Music Player
This does not need an explanation, too.

F. Tablet
The tablet is one of the greatest inventions of our time. It's compact. It's very convenient because I no longer have to bring my laptop with me. If there's a life and death matter at work that needs my immediate attention when on a vacation, I can easily check my email from my iPad. Also, this is where I keep digital copies of my travel documents for reference. And most importantly, this amazing piece of technology saves me from boredom.

G. Small Day Bag
A small day bag is perfect when you're going around town and sight-seeing because it won't call attention. It's light and will require you to just bring the essentials needed for the day.

H. Red Lipstick
Red Lipstick is like the LBD. You don't have to bring your entire makeup stash. A nice, bold red lip color usually does the trick and can make you look fab in an instant.

I. Comfortable, Multi-Purpose Neutral-Colored Footwear
I limit myself to bringing max of 2 pairs of shoes. Your comfortable, multi-purpose neutral-colored footwear can be a nice pair of sneakers or a lovely pair of flats that will go well with your maxi-dress, jeans, shorts, and even your LBD.

J. Pen & Small Notebook
I love to write and half the time, my head's always bursting with ideas.

K. A Good Book
Best boredom killer during airport lull times and long flights :)

L. A Good Foundation / Concealer
Octard's been my favorite since I discovered it. I works well as a foundation and as a concealer. I'm usually good with just this and my red lipstick.

M. Mobile WiFi
Ah, this is my local travel best friend. My country's still a bit behind when it comes to the Internet and I've had bad experiences with hotels ( yes, even big ones ) that don't have a decent connection inside the room. I've learned to not complain and just have something reliable with me at all times. I'm using Smart, most reliable of 'em all even if you're not in the city.

N. A Powerful and Reliable Point-&-Shoot Camera
While DSLRs are okay, they're not-so convenient when traveling ( at least for me ). They're heavy and it will hurt a lot of if they get lost. Lol. So, I'm all for powerful point-and-shoot digital cameras. I've been using an Olympus Tough for almost a year now. It doesn't disappoint and I would recommend it. It's waterproof, shockproof, freezeproof and still takes great photos.

O. First-Aid Kit
A first-aid travel does not need to have much and mine usually has the following: my thyroid meds, insect repellant, band-aid, anti-bacterial cream, paracetamol, anti-histamine, and loperamide.

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You've seen my list, now it's time to hear from you. What are your travel essentials? Passport, travel documents, cash, itinerary don't count. We all know that everyone shouldn't go on a trip without these non-negotiables.Ü ☮..Peace + ❥_Love + Spreading Lots of Travel Vibes. RUSS.