uGoGirlFriday

After rehearsing for my 40-minute speech about the Basics of SEO for a prestigious state university last September, my friend Eden, sensing how tensed I am, asked if I’d like to go on a long vacation in her province this coming November.

Normally, I would’ve jumped at the opportunity. But this time around, I am very strict on settling all my debts before the year ends; so I gave her a very wishful but sad, “I can’t”. After finding out my real reason, Eden laughed and said it’s going to be an all inclusive vacations for us since her family owns a place there.

My face lit up at the mention of “all inclusive”. She even furthered that I can bring friends and we need not worry about the food and lodging! Imagine that!

Of course, as you know, I DID jump at the opportunity and even invited my Nth level friend. We’re in fact, going there this week! Mind you, all my bags are packed, I’m ready to go (even though our flight is still on Thursday)! *jumps up and down with glee*

read comments (0)

Unlike some people whose sole purpose in life is to get thin by taking diet pills, I have been dreaming of learning Nihongo since I was in high school. With that of course, being able to go to Japan is already a given on my list of “must do”.

As Paulo Coelho wrote in The Alchemist, “When you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you to achieve it.” I have been wanting it, with all my heart. And by the looks of it, I am already on my way to achieving it – by April 2010, if all goes well. ^^;

You see, I met my friend Mark last year and he’s been coaching me in Nihongo and giving me text books on how to learn Japanese. There’s also my friend Romar and JC, who’s currently residing in Japan, and both are willing to give me a one week tour plus free accommodation when I have the means (i.e. cash) to be able to go to Japan.

With my friend Mark helping me with my finances as well, I just might be able to make it in time for Hanami (花見?, lit. “flower viewing”) next year. *cross fingers* I can’t wait to post pictures of it here. ^_^ Wish me luck!

read comments (0)

London, the capital city of England and UK, is one of the world”s leading business, financial, and cultural centres today. And with their great facilities and structures, I’m not surprised that a lot of companies are opting to hold business conferences there.

For those searching for a superb conference venue with nearby Hotels in London, I suggest you try Queen Elizabeth II Conference Centre. Hailed with the title, “Best UK Venue” in the International Confex 2007, the Centre has been designed to provide not only the finest facilities but also to create the perfect environment for a successful and productive event. Moreover, it is a world-class venue that’s able to combine modern comfort with the latest technology.

If you’re hesitant to hold your conference there because of the added accommodation expense that comes with it, don’t worry. The cost of staying in a Hotel in London need not burn a hole in your pocket. There are London Hotels that are cheap but provide quality service and facilities.

read comments (0)

The man who goes alone can start today; but he who travels with another must wait till that other is ready.

- Henry David Thoreau, Walden (1854)

Nowadays, you need not worry on whether or not your friend will be able to join you in the next trip. In fact, you don’t have to worry at all about a doomed, melancholic trip if you’re traveling alone. Armed with detailed maps and foreknowledge about your target place by browsing an online travel guide, you’re sure to be all set to an invigorating, it’s-just-me-and-my-backpack getaway.

Yep, that’s all you need – map and foreknowledge of your target place. With foreknowledge, make sure you do well research about the people, the culture, how to get around, how to avoid problems, as well as suggestions for itineraries, accommodations, dining and things to do. That way, you’ll be able to maximize your stay there AND avoid hassle.

So next time you want to go to a certain place, don’t bother calling up people to accompany you. Just go!

read comments (0)

Sydney, the state capital of New South Wales, Australia, is built around Port Jackson, which includes Sydney Harbour, leading to the city”s nickname, “The Harbour City”. Often referred to as the international gateway of Australia, Sydney is a major international tourist destination. It is noted for its wide variety of cultural sites and institutions (e.g. Opera House and Sydney Symphony Orchestra), and for hosting many festivals and some of Australia’s largest social and cultural events.

One of the largest celebrations held there is Sydney’s New Years Eve, which draws more than one million people from all over the world each year. Over 80,000 fireworks are traditionally set off from its magnificent centre-piece – the steel arched Sydney Harbour Bridge. This attracts an average of 300,000 international tourists yearly. Well, that and The Harbour of Lights Parade wherein cruise boats (the prime position for the evening) covered in fairy lights cruise the centre of the harbour all night.

With their splendid display of fireworks, which is the culmination of 12 hours of countdown and celebration, and their exceptional Harbour of Lights Parade, Sydney has recently been acknowledged by numerous media sources as having the world”s best New Year celebrations.

Though the 2008 New Year is still several months away, it is never too early to start booking in Hotels in Sydney. Remember, according to the Mercer cost of living survey, Sydney is Australia’s most expensive city, and the 21st most expensive in the world. Consequently, staying in Sydney Hotels is expensive. Thus the earlier you plan, the better your chances of booking in a prime cheap Sydney Hotel.

read comments (0)

Being a major tourist destination and situated on a breathtaking harbour, Sydney is Australia’s most attractive and exciting cities. For those planning to visit Sydney, I suggest you time it with one of the many different renowned festivals it hosts to be able to make the most out of your vacation, at the same time have a firsthand experience on the Sydney culture.

Some of the famous festivals in the city is the Sydney Festival (Australia”s largest festival) and the Big Day Out (a travelling rock music festival) in January; the Sydney Royal Easter Show (largest annual 14-day event in Australia held at Sydney Olympic Park wherein competitors showcase their animals, talents and produce) in March 20 to April 2, 2008; the Australian Fashion Week on April or May; and of course, Sydney’s New Years Eve which draws more than one million people from all over the world each year.

As with anything, it is always better to plan ahead. So start booking your trips before Sydney gets crowded during the festivities. Browsing over websites like HotelClub.net, you’ll find cheap hotels in Sydney that are in prime locations. Before finalizing your plans, check out HotelClub.net’s new Travel Forum which tackles Sydney from its various types of accommodations like Sydney hotels to its renowned restaurants, nightlife and attractions, and much more. Their Sydney Forum will help you pinpoint the places not to be missed.

read comments (0)

Since I graduated college, I have been planning on taking up a graduate course. At first, I thought of taking International Studies so I can become an ambassador. I get to travel (pursue my passion), represent my country, and help people all at the same time. How cool can a job get?

Then again, I’m not a people-person. So I opted for Law. Unfortunately, I don’t have enough savings to afford being a full-time student – this is highly recommended for students taking up law. So I postponed it.

Then I came across some colleges’ online portfolio like Gibbsri.com wherein students can utilize financial aids… It triggered me to another alternative. Why not apply online for a scholarship abroad? That way, I get to travel and meet new people while enhancing and updating my knowledge! Yep, I definitely ought to start applying.

read comments (0)