No Flour and Sugar Pancake

April 17, 2017
Posted by: AnnKris

As humans we do crave for food. Craving for something like sweets or salty perhaps can only be satisfied once you get what you craved for. About a week ago I craved for pan cake, since I am in my second card of eating healthy food for my fitness goals I refrain from eating too much carb or sweets. I know how pan cake is being made and the ingredients used. So, I searched in the web through the help of mr. google to find an alternative. Finally, I got this recipe that I will share here in my blog today. It is a very simple recipe without using flour and sugar. It is made of 2 or 3 ingredients that are available in your kitchen. I know when you are just starting to switch a diet it would not be easy at first. The taste may not be as good from the usual food you eat, but as you go along and when you think of your fitness goals you really can do it, and will learn to love it!

The source says it’s a flourless pancake. All you need is a table banana and egg. Or you may opt to mix it with oatmeal. 1 large egg has 6g. protien, 74 calories. A 1 large banana has 121 calories, 1.5 g protein. 

Prepare the egg and banana, mash the banana with the egg, when banana is fully mashed put a little oil in the pan then pour the mixture and cover it for few minutes, then flip or turn over to cook the other side. cover it and then wait for a few minutes. When done transfer your cake to a plate, your healthy (flourless and no sugar added) pancake is ready! Enjoy!

This pancake is just egg and banana

This pancake is made up of egg, banana and oatmeal

Note: My first time to try this. The image may not look so good but I am thinking of making it again this week. This kind of pancake has less than calories compared to the one you ordered in a restaurant with butter and syrup mix.

'Til next time enjoy and happy day to all!

Happy Anniversary V-Babes

April 15, 2017

Posted by: AnnKris

Imagine you without a friend, Isn't it lonely? it's like a life living alone on a desert island. Life would definitely be lonely when you don't have friends to laugh with to share your thoughts with, etc. 

What is friendship? Wikipedia defines Friendship as a strong interpersonal bond than an association. According to a study also by the World happiness Database, those people with close friends are happier.  I must admit that I only have few close friends then that I seldom see now and they are always in my heart. As I continue my life's journey, I met new people, new acquaintances that led to a certain kind of relationship they call friendship. Friendship in the sense that we get to find time to meet just for fun or unwind, celebrate birthdays, special occasions like Christmas, etc. Having different views and beliefs on certain things is not a hindrance to our friendship. Despite our individual differences and background, we do have our own share of making everyone happy.

When did the friendship start? It all started in the gym and the rest is history. This year we simply celebrate our anniversary at Creating Keepsakes along Mt. Mayon street, Davao City last April 8, 2017. Supposedly April 9, since it's Sunday we celebrated it one day ahead.

Friends are our family by heart, though the three members weren't able to attend our anniversary this year, the rest is looking forward that we could all be together in celebrating our anniversary next year as one family. Another year of friendship mean a lot and as we celebrate the day of our union, I hope we continue as good friends and our passion for fitness will have no end until we get older, dang!!!!lol. You guys rock!

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY V-Babes!

Circuit Training At The Wellnes Hub Today

March 31, 2017

Posted by: Ann kris

Exercise comes in any form. Whether it is Zumba, Aerobics, Pilates, Yoga, Running, etc. it all boils down into fitness. Lately, I'm back in running while still enjoying Zumba fitness. I also join a Pilates class once in a while at the fitness and wellness hub nearby where I used to take my healthy breakfast (Herbalife shake) after every exercise. One good thing about this wellness hub is the free exercise which they offered to their drinker/clients.

This morning a circuit training workout was finally introduced to us. I am glad to have tried it for the very first time. As I stepped inside the hub, the equipment, and the markings on the floor easily caught my attention. This is it, everyone was excited I guess and so do I. I immediately took my aloe and tea first. When we were about to start with the warm up, our coach explained the mechanics of the training and everybody listened carefully. 

I made my own research about circuit training today. What is a circuit training? Circuit training according to Wikipedia is a form of body conditioning or resistance training using high-intensity aerobics to build strength or muscular endurance. The circuit is one completion of all prescribed exercises in the program. How it is performed? In circuit training, you do one exercise for 30 seconds and then move on to the next exercise.  It's like a moving exam. This kind of workout suddenly reminds me of the Chemistry class when I was in college (lol). Well, I'm glad to have passed all my moving exams then. 

After the warm up I can see mixed emotions in everyone's face. I understand how it feels. Some may be nervous, thinking that it's hard. Others were a little bit shy or excited to try. But, after the circuit, everybody was happy. Yes, happy because we did it all well. Right now I am experiencing a slight pain in my legs but nothing to worry, tomorrow this will be gone I know.  I am looking forward to doing circuit training again next week. Although it is quite exhausting but worth it. I can see the sweat dripped off from my body to the floor in just a few minutes.  I love it! Circuit training can be an ideal boredom buster too. Everybody got so sweaty. Hurray!

Sweat is fat crying, I don't care! lol. I hate you. I am working hard to say goodbye to you soon.  I know from now on that my sacrifices will be paid off as I continue my Journey to getting fit, healthy and strong! With proper diet/nutrition plus regular exercise, nothing is impossible!

After a heavy sweat this morning from doing circuit training, I took my healthy breakfast Vanilla shake from Herbalife. Yummy!!!

Until next time...Happy day to all!

Exercise and Proper Diet For A Healthy Body

March 28, 2017
Posted by: AnnKris

I am grateful for my interest in fitness and blogging.  It gives me something to do during the day I learn to appreciate new things around, meet new people, practice new music for my Zumba fitness class. This way I tend to be productive. I'm also back into other forms of exercise such as walking, jogging/running as part of my fitness routine. Joining and understanding the program for proper nutrition/diet helps me in my journey to getting fit, healthy and strong. By following a healthy meal plan would be a great challenge but I'm up for it. At 47 I am grateful for all these things.  Let not your age stop you from getting fit. Yes, age is just a number what you become is the product of what you do to yourself. If you keep on believing that you can't do it, then who will do it for you? negativity is just a state of mind.  I tell you, I've been there. 

The road to getting fit and healthy is not easy, but then again once you get into it, you will have that instinct to always look for tomorrows. And once you see results you will definitely be determined and inspired to workout even harder. Your journey to fitness with exercise alone and without proper nutrition or diet may be ineffective. No matter how hard you workout or exercise but you have no control over the food you eat then it's a waste of time. When you exercise you burned calories, after exercise, you load your mouth with so many calories again, just imagine what will happen. When you want to lose weight and get fit just remember to exercise and strictly follow a proper diet or meal plan.

I am a food lover, I had a hard time losing weight, until one day I decided to try Herbalife. I was 65 kilos when I started, and for my height and age, I am overweight for approximately 10kilos. Since the product is new to me, I experienced what others have gone through during their first few days also. One common manifestation during my first three days of using it is farting. I fart so often and annoying as it may seem especially when the uncontrollable sound comes out, but I just laugh it off with hubby's presence sometimes. It's like something is working inside my tummy and ready to explode anytime. I asked one of my coaches and she said it is just normal. One good thing about Herbalife is the talking points wherein your coach will explain to you the process, all the benefits it will do to your body, the good sources of a healthy food and proper diet.  Every day you will get to learn new things.

After exercise, I take the shake for my morning meal. For 10 days now, I lose 1.23 kilos. Not bad in fact, I am always excited every single day knowing that my plan is working and that my goals will soon be realized. I just have to continue doing my fitness routine and strictly follows my meal plan. Exercise plus a HEALTHY BREAKFAST is the best.  As we grow older we feel a lot of sickness or pain in our body. It would it be best if you do something about it. Poor eating habits and lack of exercise may affect your health badly. It's time to get healthy and switch to a HEALTHY lifestyle. Join me in my journey to Getting FIT, HEALTHY and STRONG by creating yours!  Good luck on your journey.

Have a happy day!

Know Some Benefits of Running

March 23, 2017
Posted by: AnnKris

I am not a professional runner but I ran many times as part of my fitness routine and easily fell in love with it. It may not be everybody's favorite but realizing all the beneficial effects of running and the happiness and satisfaction i get after a ran make me love it more! Running is one best exercise for your heart and lungs.

Photo posted was taken in 2012 when I was still active in joining fun runs. This was my first time to have tried a 10km. distance. For a year or two, I think there was never a weekend wherein I miss running. Conquering the streets along with some runners in early dawn gave me a certain feeling of happiness that only runners can understand.

Some of my friends would say running is tiring. Yes, we do have our strength and weakness and I believe it is important to find your fitness. I've been telling this to some of my friends and new acquaintances who are interested in this kind of fitness. Allow me to share with you some benefits of running based on my readings, research, and experience.

Running helps improve your health - meaning it can increase the level of your good cholesterol and lung function. It can boost your immune system as well and lower the danger of having blood clots. 

Prevent diseases - such as stroke. The chance of having a heart attack can be reduced because running can help retain the elasticity and strength of your heart. 

Loose weight - For people especially for women like me who is desperately trying to loose weight (lol), Dang!!! really it's been my dilemma for quite some time already. I guess with all the benefits of running, for now, this is my favorite.  Running according to experts can burn off extra calories and it is the second most effective exercise in terms of calorie burning. 

Boost your confidence by giving you a sense of empowerment making you feel happy. If you are stress and not feeling good about all the things around, try to run and feel the effects after. 

Relieve stress - I can relate to this because it happened to me. When I feel depressed too I had this feeling of running and once I did and perspired it make me feel good.

Yes, running makes me feel good. Though I stopped from joining fun runs for quite a time already but now I'm back. I make it a point to run at least twice a week within the subdivision. I'm glad to have run again just in time for my fitness goals. Trying hard so much to get rid of my excess weight and fats.

Now that you have read some of the benefits of running maybe you can at least try it as part of your exercise. To be physically fit, however, requires determination patience and endurance, if you are experiencing something unusual in your body it is best to consult a physician before starting this kind of exercise. Your physician will determine if you are allowed or fit enough to indulge in running.

Happy Running!

      Educate yourself, keep on reading guys. Have a happy day!

Journey To Getting Healthy

March 15, 2017
Posted by: AnnKris

I believe getting healthy is a journey. Healthy means getting rid of unhealthy food and habits, it would literally mean you are ready to commit to your health. I've been in the fitness community for how many years and I can see many people (including myself) unsuccessful in the journey. Workouts and any kind of exercise won't help without proper diet.

I've been exercising for quite a time already and I engaged in walking, running, and Zumba fitness for more than 2 years as an instructor. Sad to say, I still did not reach my fitness goal. Maybe, because it's hard to make healthy choices most especially in the food we eat. I love food and eat anything my mind dictates. Sometimes, it's extremely hard when you are determined to reach the weight you've always wanted. Temptations are always there ready to pull you down. 

I've been reading inspirational articles, watched exercise videos, researched menu plans, etc. At first, got so excited, but nothing works either. After a few months, I still went back to my old self. Though some people had noticed a changed in me am still grateful for that. I knew about nutrition clubs, food supplements, and I respect what others have to say about it. Before I categorically admit to using cynical which is readily available in any drugstores. It helped for a short period of time and then go back to my old self again. 

Even if you have all the tools you need in reaching your goals, and you lack a better understanding of the process and a strong determination as well to push through with it is ineffective. When you decide to be strong and healthy you have to find your fitness and practice proper diet. Work for it, understand the process and stick with it. Exercise and proper diet should go together.  Do it now because nobody will do it for you. Love yourself enough to live a healthy lifestyle.

Enjoy your journey!

Seafood Ramen for the Cold Weather

March 06, 2017
Posted by: Analuz

What is Ramen? where did it originate? 

Ramen is a Japanese noodle dish started from China and became most popular in Japan. Noodles in Ramen are made of wheat. It is readily available on almost every corner in Japan making it becoming popular with the budget travelers. In the Philippines, especially in Davao city more Japanese restaurants are operating and or doing business now offering their best Ramen.

Ramen can be ordered in different varieties with distinct flavors and is classified according to their soup based. To complete your best ramen it is served with toppings. Because Ramen is served with a selection of side dishes as toppings, it is considered a one dish meal. Whether you are in Japan or in any other place, Ramen is typically eaten using chopsticks and consumed immediately while it's hot. In Japan, they eat it with a slurping sound to help enhance the flavors and minimize the hot noodles as it enters the mouth. 

Last week I had the chance to enjoy a restaurant-quality fresh cooked Ramen at Tadakuma Ramen Tei, a Japanese restaurant located at Tulip drive Matina, Davao city. The restaurant just opened the first week of January 2017. Outside of the restaurant in the glass wall, you can see the "Best Sellers" with the corresponding price written on a small board. Upon entering the place greetings from the staff using the Japanese language can be heard loudly, in Filipino it means WELCOME!

Hubby and I ordered Seafood Ramen one of their best sellers so far.  Though I've been eating ramen many times already, I still could not appreciate the chopsticks and am not comfortable with it. Instead, I requested a fork and they gave me spoon and fork. No problem with hubby for he got used to chopsticks. One order at a price of P250 for our Seafood ramen was good enough for the two of us. It was served in two differently bowls as suggested by them. I added seasonings like white pepper and chili powder to enhance the flavor of my best ramen, and indeed it was. Hubby keeps on saying "lami" a Bisayan term for "delicious". 

He wanted to order again but I strongly resisted. I always think that too much of a good thing is bad, glad he obeyed me. There were not many customers that time but I noticed people are coming in and out of the place to pick up their order.

The place is clean, the staff is polite, I like the place and the Ramen at Tadakuma is highly recommended. There are many choices to choose from their menu, not just Ramen but I haven't tasted it yet, just Ramen for now. Next time when I need to satisfy my yearning for ramen, I already have a new place to go.

Ramen is one of my favorite indulgences most especially when the weather is cold. It's a rainy cold Monday here today! Thank you for visiting. Keep safe everyone.

Ice Cream A Delicious Dessert And How To Make Your Own The Healthy Way

February 28, 2017
Posted by: Analuz

Ice cream is one of my favorites. Is eating ice cream good for your health? The answer is yes and eating moderately is the key. If you are on a diet you can still get the pleasure of eating this delicious and irresistible dessert once a day along with a healthy meal. According to the latest diet featured in Prevention Magazine. 

We know that ice cream is high in sugar and fat and definitely not a health food. But, ice cream can be considered a dietary source of some significant minerals, particularly calcium and other important vitamins from its milk content. It is recommended to eat one-half cup a day. A one-half cup of serving contains 7g. of fat, 2g. protein, and 15g. of carbohydrate making it a good source when you need energy. 

Ice cream contains water, dairy, protein, sugars plus added sugar,  emulsifiers (fat based products) and thickeners like cornstarch. Since ice cream is dairy-based and contains lactose it may cause certain problems affecting digestion of people who are lactose-intolerant. However, this problem may be avoided and individuals who are lactose intolerant can still enjoy ice cream by taking a lactase supplement according to PubMed Health. 

Health conscious individuals and those following a healthy diet may have a choice of making your own ice cream at home.  Do it yourself (DIY) ice cream is making waves among women and health enthusiasts nowadays. Ice cream lovers and those who cannot resist this greatly loved delicious dessert, you can now enjoy your ice cream the healthy way.  Follow the recipes posted in the following links below. Summer is fast approaching, beat the summer heat without so much guilt. Make your own, do it yourself (DIY) ice cream!  Just click the links follow each recipe and enjoy!

Click here:http://dailyburn.com/life/recipes/healthy-homemade-ice-cream-recipes/

http://www.eatingwell.com/recipes/18290/desserts/homemade-ice-cream/.

Please read the origin of Ice cream:

http://news.bbc.co.uk/cbbcnews/hi/find_out/guides/tech/ice-cream/newsid_3634000/3634978.stm

(Photo credits: Daily Burn)

Amiya Cafe Lagoon and Restaurant, A Place to Dine Away From The City Noise

February 27, 2017
Posted by: Analuz

When you are looking for a suitable place to spend time with your family, friends or someone you should think carefully before making a decision. Think of the reasons why you go. Is it simply to hang out, to talk, to eat or just walk around to explore the place. Finding a place also to dine with a group that can accommodate your preferences can be challenging and extremely demanding sometimes especially when you want to share some good eats without blowing your budget. Nevertheless, there are many options as to where to go and what to eat. Social media or print ads, word of mouth, and reviews can be a great source in gathering some ideas on where to find the best restaurant and the best place to dine.

Eating out is considered a normal activity aside from a movie date. I've been to some places and best restaurants with a good food here in Davao City and recently I have visited Amiya Cafe Lagoon Restaurant twice already. The first time we came here it was purely sightseeing with my family. But, we did not stay long because my millennial or generation Y boys preferred to go to another place at the heart of the city. On a Saturday afternoon February 25, 2017 (EDSA Anniversary), I came back to the place with friends. This time we had the pleasure to enjoy the place, took a lot of pictures and enjoyed our meal. It was a group bonding filled with joy and laughter, plus the cast was complete. 

The location is not far away from the city. Just ride a taxi from where you are and tell the driver to bring you to Amiya Residences at Libby Road Puan. If you have a private ride you can also access and hang out in the place anytime during business hours. Upon reaching the gate or guard house of Amiya just tell the security guard you will be going to the Cafe Lagoon restaurant. There's no entrance fee, and if you like the place just order a meal, dine and enjoy!. The food is affordable and satisfactory in quality, but I wished they could have increased the quantity or add some per serving. But, still, a good meal to enjoy anyway. While waiting for your order you can entertain yourself via fishing in the lagoon and feel the fresh air. You can rent a rod for 1 hour at 50 pesos. All your catch will be priced at 280 per kilo and they will cook it for you for free. Or enjoy boating at 100 pesos per hour. 

The price of Rice at the restaurant is P30 per cup and drinks at P45. They also served fruit salad at P80 per serving. Just ask for the menu for more order. The location is reachable and the ambiance is highly recommended. Prices are affordable, though if you take a look at the list some are a bit pricey but you can choose a different kind that suits your budget.  I highly recommend their pancit canton, chopsuey, and fried chicken, if you want to savor a hot soup try their Imbao soup. Tuna belly is good but for me, it was not worth at a price of P300 too small.

Bringing of lechon for the special occasion is highly allowed just pay a corkage fee of P400, and when you bring in also a bottle of your own wine, the charge is still the same P400 regardless of how many. You may also opt to stay in their Japanese hut at P3,500 consumable good for 10-12pax. The Kubo near the lagoon is free of charge just order their food. I forgot to take pictures of the food we ordered, but I hope some of the details you need to know you find it here. Thank you for spending a little of your time to read my blog! Posted below is a sample of their menu and few photos of what to see in the place.

Amiya Cafe Lagoon at Amiya Residences, a place to dine away from the city noise. located at  Libby Road, Puan Davao City. It is open from 11 am til 9 pm Mondays thru Saturdays. Or you may call 2983451 for reservation. 

Here is a sample list of their menu:

Pancit Canton P180 per order good for 3-4person

Bihon P160

Chopsuey P180

mixed vegetables P180

Chicken pork adobo P230

Crispy Pata P320

Tuna belly P300

Barbecue pork (10 sticks) P160

Boneless fried Bangus P230

Sizzling fish P220

Imbao soup

Sinigang pork/shrimp/bangus

Sate and more

Please enjoy watching some of the photos below:

(Photo credits: Didith Jiminez)

Treating Anxiety And Stress The Natural Way

February 24, 2017

Life is not perfect. No matter what you do there is sometimes an unwelcome or harmful situation that needs to overcome. Anxiety is a common feeling that any individual can experience and greatly affects everyone no matter what is your social status in life. Everyone can feel "Anxiety", and when it strikes some of us feel it is the end of the world. When you feel worried, uneasy, nervous on something that you think you don't know what's gonna happen that is anxiety. In order to ease anxiety,  some people turned to anti-depressants or chemical cures while some try natural remedies.

As human beings, we cannot evade this feeling. I'm not an expert on feelings and behavior but I think It is important to control your emotions, stay on top and let not your anxiety ruin your day. Always remember that life is not going to be easy, our choices and attitude in dealing certain issues can make us or break us. 

However, managing stress or anxiety naturally can be possible please learn from this article http://fitlife.tv/managing-anxiety-5-steps-to-open-your-mind-and-calm-your-heart/?utm_source=fitlife&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=alphareset1day&utm_content=Managing+stress+without+chemicals
Also, try this Alternate Nostril Breathing (ANB) called pranayama, a yoga practice to ease anxiety. It involves breathing exercise to relieve tension and relax your mind quickly. Please watch the video <iframe width="724" height="407" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/pSr949GFUNw" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>
Anxiety attacks may not last long. It's up to you if you want it to stay in your system longer. Although sometimes it's scary depending on the degree of your situation. When physical manifestations like shortness of breath and sweating occur, it is best to consult your physician.

I remember one writer says: Anxiety is just a test of endurance and resilience, when facing it just remember the famous quote from Nietzsche, "That which does not kill us makes us stronger."

Disclaimer: The ideas I expressed and presented are purely my own opinion and for educational purposes only.  I have posted links like site and video for your reference.

Warrant of Arrest Against Senator De lima and What Led To Her Arrest

February 24, 2017

Former Secretary of the Department of Justice (DOJ) Senator Leila Delima failed to respond the drug complaints filed against her that led to her arrest. She committed enormous misstep by not responding to it and instead question the jurisdiction of the DOJ through her counter affidavit in a motion she earlier submitted. The case filed by VACC or Volunteer Against Crime and Corruption, NBI, and former two NBI officials against her were submitted in court. The court says the case was so strong and found a probable cause that led to the issuance of the warrant of arrest.

On Thursday, the Muntinlupa Regional Trial Court (RTC) issued the Warrant of Arrest. Senator Leila De Lima's lawyer Jose Manuel Diokno, a human rights lawyer and the son of the former Senator Jose Diokno spoke to the media and reveal that Delima considers herself the first political prisoner under the Duterte Administration. Diokno was surprised by the issuance of the said Warrant of Arrest against her client and have no choice for the moment but to concur with it.

During Duterte's campaign for the presidency, he vowed to fight against drugs and corruption. Yesterday, Malacanang welcomes the Warrant of Arrest against Delima. It was supposedly be issued on Thursday but she requested to spend a few time with her family. She also prefers to be arrested during daytime for safety reasons, and in the senate, because she doesn't want her family to witness her arrest.

On Friday morning, February 24, 2017, Senator Delima turned herself into authorities and was technically arrested at the senate. 

Senator Delima says:

“If the loss of my freedom is the price I have to pay for standing up against the butchery of the Duterte regime, then it is a price I am willing to pay. But they are mistaken if they think my fight ends here. It has only begun,” she added. 

Source: http://www.inquirer.net/
                       TV News

Things That You Should Know About Sugar

February 23, 2017

We crave for sweets and sugar is sweets, right? and when we consumed excessive sugar in our body we knew it's pretty darn toxic. Do you believe that the food industry made a lot of people as sugar addicts? Some of us believe and follow trends and even patronize products. Advertisements and posts from TV's and social media played a bigger role in influencing the consumers.

We learned from our basic education that our palate is made up of four (4) basic taste: sweet, salty, bitter and sour and most of our packed food and other food products today are trying to eliminate the bitter taste by adding too much sugar in it. Yes, sugar is good, we need it but we should be careful and be aware of the bad effects in our health. Consuming too much sugar causes weight gain, increase in blood sugar levels and trigger Insulin surges. Furthermore, over consumption will lead to diabetes and obesity which is one of the leading disease and common problems among our people today.

There are best natural sweetener sources that we can find in the markets that does not affect blood sugar and has very low (0) or zero glycemic index. Namely: Stevia, raw honey and coconut palm sugar.  Hidden  Sugar lead to an overgrowth of bad bacteria, it feeds the bad bacteria and yeasts in our stomach that ruins our digestion which sometimes is the cause of bloating, indigestion and bowel issues.

Even if we don't eat sweets this hidden sugars can also be found in any of these:

Ketchup, barbecue sauce, salad dressings and other condiments, flavored yogurts, bread and crackers, fruit juices, sweetened drinks. Bear in mind that an 80z sweetened drinks contain 10-40 grams of sugar. 

While excessive consumption may have bad effects in our body, Sugar is an excellent source for skincare. It is a natural source of glycolic acid for younger looking skin. It can be used to exfoliate the top dead layer of skin cells when used as a body scrub, an excellent topical exfoliant. 

Disclaimer: The ideas I expressed suggestions presented are purely my own opinion, my own understanding, and interpretation about certain issues based on my sources of readings. What I write and posted in this blog is purely for reading and educational purposes only. Any clarification on the subject matters written here you may consult or refer to licensed professional for further clarification.

Remembering My Journey To Bangkok Thailand

February 22, 2017

At one point in my life, I dreamed of traveling abroad. To a place where nobody recognizes me. To explore, to feel, to enjoy and experience life in a foreign land. Traveling to a place outside my country the Philippines may not be my priority that time. But, suddenly I realized I found myself walking inside Suvarnabhumi Airport (I had a hard time retrieving my own photo inside the airport. I posted beside a photo from the web) in Bangkok along with my friend. I never thought Bangkok would be my first destination abroad. I supposed many of us has a desire to take a trip abroad and I am so pleased Cebu Pacific is offering promo fares which are very affordable... Anyone can buy or reserve a ticket within their means.

Bangkok experienced was very fulfilling and I wished I had more time to hang around to explore more of interesting sights I've never seen or even to catch a glimpse of it.  Anyway, I felt so grateful to experience getting around Bangkok in a short span of time. Being a first timer in a foreign land I cannot refute the excitement and strange feelings I had towards the place. It was a mixed emotion...day by day I come to know new things and really thankful to have a new friend there who happened to be our guide and interpreter.  He is a Filipino working in one of a private school in Bangkok.

On the first day, we woke up ahead of schedule and our first journey was in the City of Siam. The first time is always exciting, and I wished my family was with me throughout the trip. We moved out places to places in a day, and to complete the happiness I felt, I just visualized my gentlemen (hubby and my three sons) was with me. It took us almost half day to tour around the place. The Ancient City of Siam reflects important landmarks in the history of Bangkok, Thailand. Anyone can opt to rent a bike and ride the tram inside the vicinity. It was in the place I experienced drinking bottled water with a straw...I felt so "OA" drinking water using a straw???my golly...I can drink it without a straw. Even in the restaurant near Phraya river, they served flavored water that way and it tastes good. Well, I stopped asking our friend, and instead, I just enjoyed the experience.

We stopped at JP restaurant before crossing the Phraya river, ate our lunch and Thai's typical "chili sauce" was served again. When you are in Thailand expect it, in fairness I learned to like Thai food. I can not recall precisely the set of menu or food I have eaten and tasted while in Bangkok, but all of it tastes really good. Coconut ice cream was excellent too. Our favorite breakfast? Barbecue with sticky rice...my companion got addicted to it, that when she saw a lady inside the airport selling it she did not hesitate to buy...We savored together our last favorite breakfast meal at Suvarnabhumi airport while waiting for our flight back to Manila.

On our second day, we traveled to Pattaya City, We rented a taxi. It was a 2- hour drive from Bangkok. Pattaya is known for its resort which is popular with tourists and expatriates and is situated in the eastern seaboard zone. Before heading to the beach we dropped by at Nongnooch Garden resort. It is an adventure park and one of the 10 most awesome gardens in the world. Beforehand, I had already an idea of what we can see inside. The Elephant show was wonderful. The Thai cultural show was good. There are more things you can see inside the garden resort, and the one that struck me the most is the beautiful botanical garden. Wow? I was really amazed. I wanted to take pictures of me in every corner...Good for us because my friend brought 2 cameras, and her Samsung galaxy note. Our time in Nongnooch garden was shortened and went straight to the beach.

We did not stay long in one of the beaches in Pattaya City because as I said we were running out of time, we have to rush back to Bangkok before 4 pm. We took a few pictures. (I am hoping to go back to Pattaya City in the future). When we arrived back in Bangkok, we had the pleasure to see other sights and shopping malls in the city. The platinum fashion shopping mall was full of people. It was so busy that time because it was a weekend. If you are in Bangkok try to drop by and buy something at the Platinum mall they offer a very reasonable price. The crowd at Platinum was different from our next destination, the Central world mega shopping complex. It also has everything from brand clothing boutiques to fashion boutiques. We did not stay long and got out from the mall to the train station. It was my first time to ride a train...oh la la la. Well, there's so much more to tell about my journey in Bangkok, Thailand 4 years ago. The experience was so overwhelming. If I'd be given the chance to go abroad again I still would want to go back in Thailand. and maybe explore Phuket or take a side trip to Cambodia. Thank you, everyone, for taking a time to read. Muah! I posted few photos below.