Carmi's Caprice

The bustling Hongik University ( thus, "Hongdae") shopping street is just a stone's throw away from the Incheon Int'l Airport, made possible through the direct non-stop interconnected Airport Express (AREX) Train.

Oh to be young and carefree! Haha! It's a shopping heaven for university students and the like. I seriously wished I had the privilege to study here.

Each stall has its own quirky products and eye-catching display of Korean street food. This is the famed fish shaped waffles filled with red bean paste ( or custard cream ) served with yogurt ice cream topped off with chocolate syrup and crunchy flakes.

Deliberately scouted the streets to find the Hello Kitty Cafe. Had a hard time locating it since it has moved to a new and bigger location and thus older blogs aren't accurate anymore. Had to ask the locals for directions. Koreans are generally helpful and would even search the address for you using their mobile phones.

Choose from delectable meals waffles, breads, salads, hotdogs and too-pretty-to-eat desserts Hello Kitty Strawberry Mousse, Rare Cheese Cake, Tiramisu.

Expect to shell out 10,000ish krw for each item. Guzzle down with ze purrfect Cafe lattes and Caramel Macchiatos.

The trip to the cafe also warrants a visit to the Gift Shop for all the lovely feline merchandise.

Hongdae's branch operating hours 0930H-2230H

It was a midnight weekend and the University shopping street was packed with students. The city never sleeps! I concluded that koreans have this certain fondness for quaint and cute little cafes and shops found on the alley nooks.

Give yourself atleast an hour to browse, since the racks seem to go on forever.

Woof! Look! This doggie is guarding a pink cotton candy cart.

Isn't Hongdae the coolest and cutest area in Seoul? Each store has its own trick on its sleeves to promote their products. Very ingenious!

Not to miss is Osulloc Tea House. A dessert themed cafe that specializes in the authentic taste of traditional Jeju Tea, with green tea as the main ingredient.

The King O'Fredo with all the works! Matcha smoothie with matcha ice cream, whipped cream, matcha pound cake, sweet caramel cracker and red bean paste.

Guests can take home a little slice of Jeju Tea with them. Osulloc guides visitors into the world of tea drinking to balance both mind and body. Yummiest flavors abound!

Around Ewha Womans (not a typo error, read details HERE) University are clusters of shopping stores twisted around its many streets. Turn to each alleyway and be greeted by the trendy stores offering current season's top style picks.

Since the stores cater mostly to University students, expect prices to be really cheap and easy on the pocket. Although I swear by the massive Gangnam Express Bus Terminal Go-To Mall to be the cheapest shopping area in Seoul, EDAE has the cutest and stylish ones. It has a unique charm of its own.

How much is cheap? I'd say prices starts at 10,000 krw with some occasional finds at knock-off 5,000 krw. Myeongdong prices starts at 15,000-20,000.

It was Autumn and displays were mostly thick coats and trenches in preparation for the coming winter. Living in a tropical country where we rarely see these myriad of choices back home, everything was LOVE at first sight! (tee-hee) Makes me want to splurge for future travels abroad.

Finding EDAE is a piece of cake. From wherever you are in Seoul, take the Green Line and alight at Ewha Womans University station. At the exit are tourist assistants stationed to help you figure out directions to a particular store or restaurant you may want to visit.

The cold autumn is almost synonymous to unpredictable rainy season. Everybody's ready with their see-through umbrellas. Thus explains the rainy day sale.

Everything's just sooo dainty and pretty!

Head on to EDAE to get that University look vibe!

If you're stepping foot on Seoul, one's itinerary should almost if not always, include Myeongdong. Catch up on some of my previous reads about shopping here and the Dog Cafe here.

There are 3 options on how to get to Myeongdong from Incheon Airport. Via Airport Limousine Bus, Airport Express (AREX) Train or Taxi. The first option is a no-brainer! Talk about the convenience of not having to lug your trolley up down the stairs and be comfortably seated as you take glimpse of the city's beauty. Take the airport limousine bus No. 6015. Fare is 10,000 won. Tap your Seoul City Pass or T-money or buy from the booth just right outside the arrival hall exits 5B or 12A.

Just a few steps away from the bus stop is the charming Hotel SkyPark III. Highly recommended for first-time Seoul visitors. Location is excellent! We've all heard of the horrors of not being able to locate your hotel especially in the wee hours of night. Take note that it is the 3rd Hotel Skypark because I & II's are located in the midst of Myeongdong. The nearness to the Hop-on Hop-off Seoul Tour bus stop makes it even more equally compelling not to mention the underground subway is just right outside the hotel entrance! It even has a 711 convenience store and Tous Les Jours adjacent. At the lobby is a mini Etude House manicure area to pass time idly and each hotel room's toiletries are from Etude House as well. I can just go on and on and won't stop raving praises for this serendipitous hotel!

Would love to let you in a pretty little secret. If you're alone with no friends to share a room with, but would like to spend a night in Myeongdong then Casa Myeongdong Guesthouse is for you.

It's a beautifully lighted, chic, very clean capsule guest house with amiable amenities. Think free simple breakfast, sensor locked rooms, lockers, laundromats and soft plush comforters. 1 bed in 4-beds female dormitory is a steal at Php 1,308 when booked via Agoda. Location is not as near as Hotel Skypark III but just roughly a few steps away from the bus stop as well. There is an elevator lift which is normally missing on most guest houses.

Quite fascinating to know that Koreans stay here as well. Perhaps to rest after a night's shopping spree or for students meeting friends for a quick night out before heading back home come next day.

Myeongdong always has something exciting up to its sleeve to offer its visitors. Take for instance this newest sensation. Milky Bee sculpts these picture perfect rose shaped gelato ice cream. Comes in 4 delicious flavors: Strawberry, yogurt, chocolate and green tea.

Now on sale too! From 5,500 won down to 3,800. For the yummy thrill it brings, go get one!

Each alleyway is a heaven for makeup and skincare enthusiasts! It's like having your own beauty town.

After that paw loving furry Dog Cafe in Myeongdong, one may find another rather distinctly unique cafe from the vibrant and quirky Edae neighborhood.

A refreshing take from the normal coffee and smoothies scene, comes a lovely dress cafe called Princess Diary.

Table connotes a feminine touch of red roses which coincidentally matches my Etude House nail snickers (tee-hee) Drinks starts at 7,000-10,000 won.

One may opt to try various clothes such as wedding dresses and Korean traditional Hanbok. Such a nice idea to play dress up while sipping cold lattes with your squad girlfriends.

Stumbled upon these lovelies! Lots of oooohs and aaahhhs and mega swoons upon entering this breathakingly huge closet full of wedding dresses! Prices starts at 10,000 won. Expect to shell out more for trendier styles though.

I had my fair share of wearing a Hanbok at the Seoul Global Cultural Center in Myeongdong so I only had eyes for the wedding dresses. After fussing with a sea of choices, I settled for this tube top lacey number. My pick costs me an arm and leg though, 25,000 won. I was actually tempted to try the more extravagant ones. I just kept reminding myself I'd be blowing away my extra won just for a measly one hour dress.

And just like a real princess, a cafe attendant will help you fit your dress and pick some matching shoes too! There's even hair accessories, corsage, flowers, hats, sunnies to complete your look.

Just tossed my hair in quick bun and viola! My bride look for the night!

It just helped that I had my bridesmaids with me at the cafe. Blowing a big kiss to my cutest girls! Kamsamnida!

Looks like somebody's having fun. Whoever said that?!

Steer clear of some important house rules to keep the clothes clean. When you are wearing the dress, you shouldn't change your makeup, drink or go to the restroom.

Fulfill your princess for a day fantasy!

I was in dire need of a fresh and thrilling new restaurant in Cebu, and after a few google clicks here and there, I serendipitously stumbled upon Kushiyaki Chikuzenya Japanese Restaurant.

Much to my delight, it didn't dissapoint. It's a fresh new take on Japanese Cuisine with the grand introduction of Butabara Nare, a Pork Belly and Vegetable Stack Pan Hakata Style.

Everyone left out a few OOooohs and Whoooaaa while flashing our biggest grins. Did Christmas came early? Presentation was definitely for the books. Eye-catchingly beautiful! Serving was humongous at a steal price of Php480.

The Chicken or Tori Karaage was sheer delight! It has that perfect twang when dipped in mayo + lemon zest. To complete the Jap staple, of course there's Gyoza and Maki.

Everything was delicious except we failed to appreciate the Purple Yam Croquette or Beniimo Korokke. Perhaps our taste buds weren't accustomed to purple yum being a glorious hot viand.

Staff was very courteous and assisted us in cooking our Butabara Nabe to our liking. It was bursting with grandiose flavors with the option to add spices.

The Newest Best Japanese Restaurant in Cebu with the best set of crew.

Here is a screenshot of the directions. You won't miss it since its just along the highway.

Check out the mouthwatering menus minus the hefty price tag

Philippine Airlines flight PR0408 Manila - Osaka (KIX) departs at 14:05H and arrives at Kansai International Airport at 19:10H. Flight time is approximately 3 Hours & 45 mins.

A peak of the hot meals served onboard

Keep in mind that Osaka time is one hour ahead of Manila.

Softbank WiFi Rental is located at the arrival lobby. Rate is Php 450/day.

To take the train: From the arrival lobby (1st floor), proceed to "Kansai Airport Station" which is located on the 2nd floor.

Since we had heavy luggage, taking KIX Airport Bus proved to be much convenient and hassle-free.

Bus stop at the Terminal 1 is located on the 1st floor

Timetable for Universal Studios Japan and Universal City Walk Osaka where Hotel Keihan Universal Tower is located.

As seen from above, bus departs Terminal 1 at 21:10H and arrives Universal City Walk Osaka at 22:28H roughly an hour and 10 mins travel time.

Fare one-way is 1,550 yen. To make it a no-brainer conversion to PHP, just divide the amount by 2. And the PHP counterpart is a little less than that (Php 713). For full list of time-table and fares, click HERE.

Just a few steps away from the bus stop is Hotel Keihan Universal tower. The night gleam was right on astounding.

At 138 meters and 33 stories tall, the hotel is the tallest Official Universal Studios hotel in the area.

The staircase was a grandiose welcome to hotel guests. Take the lift to 4th floor to the main lobby and reception area.

Superior Quad Room Non-smoking. Php 14,000/night depends on high/low season and take into consideration if weekends.

View was really stunning at night. You can see Universal Studios and the surrounding well-lit bustling Universal City Walk from your room. How cool can that be? It was surreal.

Just outside USJ park gates is the Universal City Walk, is a shopping mall with multiple official Universal hotels and restaurants and shops including stores selling Universal Studios merchandise and various Osaka souvenirs. GAP Outlet store is on the ground floor. The Takoyaki Museum is located on the mall's fourth floor.

There is also a branch of Lawson's convenience store perfect when your tummy grumbles at the wee of the night.

Nestled in the heart of Bay Area, a view of the surrounding Hotel Universal Port.

Beautiful mornings are made of this! Featuring the 31st floor S-PARK Spa with a sauna, jet bath and ho-spring baths with city views. I think I died and went to Onsen heaven.

The reason for staying in a USJ Partner hotel? It was a weekend and we were worried not being able to get passes to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter ( WWOHP) since the theme park will be packed with early birds.

True enough, look at the queue from my hotel room at 07:00H! Park opens not until 09:00H. Partner USJ Hotel Guests have a separate Early Bird Entry at 0830H.

In case you don't want to wake up too early, you can opt to stay in a nearby hotel or you might want to purchase Express Pass tickets on top of your regular Entrance Tickets.

Admission price: Adult 7,400 JPY. Kids 4,980 JPY. Senior Citizens 8,420 JPY. Should you wish to skip the long lines on the major rides and guaranteed WWOHP timed ticket entry get the Express Pass Tickets. It's like shelling out 2x the price at 12,450 JPY. A major burn on the pocket if you are paying for a group.

Hotel Keihan Universal Tower's generous breakfast buffet spread

Everything is sooo Kawaii! Look at these colorful plates with 9 division. There's really something about Japanese and how their attractive food presentation.

Up Next: Wizarding World of Harry Potter ( WWOHP ) at Universal Studios Osaka, Japan

Consider staying in an official USJ partner hotel like Hotel Keihan Universal Tower for an exclusive early bird passes to the park.

So what's the fuss in coming early to the park? Simply put, its to score that elusive Wizarding World of Harry Potter (WWOHP) timed entry tickets.

If lining up early doesn't excite you, one may either check the online crowd calendar prediction to decide on ideal travel dates or avail an Express Pass ticket to skip the long lines on the park's famous rides and attractions.

Although one would be distracted by these lovable characters, better skip 'em first. The goal is to make a mad dash towards the designated area to get WWOHP time entry tickets. Click here for the location.

Expect a series of exciting and over-the-top thrills because USJ is celebrating it's Re-booOoorn 15th Anniversary.

The magic of entering WWOHP starts here with Mr. Weasley's enchanted car.

A magnificent area reproducing the world from Harry Potter stories on an overwhelming scale and with meticulous attention to detail.

Lining up to try the ever famous butterbeer! A sweet, non-alcoholic beverage reminiscent of butterscotch and shortbread.

For an additional 500 JPY, better get the butterbeer on its souvenir mug instead of the usual plastic cup it comes with.

Harry Potter fans are all abuzz about butterbeer, and I've got the foamy mustache to prove it.

Honeydukes is soo dainty! A sweetshop full of unique sweets loved by students of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. See and feel the thrill by clicking on this instavideo.

Harry Potter merchandise, anyone? Mind you these HP robes are pretty neat and dreamy but ridiculously way overpriced.

Collectible wand sets

Tavern dining at the Hogsmeade

A feast at the Three Broomsticks

Still dreaming of this smoked rotisserie chicken and spareribs platter with corn on the cob and roast potatoes.

With a dash of luck, happily brought home a baby cookie monster from Coin Pitch, one of the 1000 JPY carnival games.

A bunch of cutesy USJ merchandise and souvenirs

Aftermath of the ReboOOrn 15th Anniversary Parade. Catch some of its highlights here.

Outside the park is the Universal City Walk

A shopping mall with multiple official Universal hotels and restaurants and shops including stores selling Universal Studios merchandise and various Osaka souvenirs. GAP Outlet store is on the ground floor. The Takoyaki Museum is located on the mall's fourth floor.

Took a cab from USJ to Hotel Mystays Shinsaibashi due to time constraints, heavy luggage and with an elderly in tow. We couldn't allow an entire afternoon to be wasted on riding the subway to Osaka then google-mapping our way towards the bustling Shinsaibashi neighborhood asking for directions.

As per TaxiFareFinder, fare estimate is pegged at 4,306 JPY. My utmost regard to Japanese taxi drivers for being GPS efficient, respectful and highly professional. Tipping is not encouraged in their country and I refuse to do so despite his wonderful service because it might be indifferent for him. True enough, actual fare was below the estimate at 3,640 JPY or PHP 1,700.

Delighted that our hotel is smacked right in the middle of the busy shopping Shinsaibashi area. We can shop to our hearts content with stores just a stone throw away. Yahoooo!

Triple sharing room Php 8,054/night. Excludes breakfast but location is everything!

Awed by swanky hotel amenities

This is where dreams are made of! (tee-hee) The largest shopping area in Osaka. Endless boutique and specialty shops are located in a covered walk way enticing both locals and tourists.

Not to miss and should be on top of your list is Pablo's Cheesecake. It has gained a cult following indicative of the store's long queues out of their dreamy cheesecake. Every component was pierced together brilliantly. Aside from the original medium/rare flavor, try the Matcha Azuki as well.

Rummaging the streets of Shinsaibashi in my blue floral Yukata

It's such a breathe of fresh air strolling around on this neighborhood knowing how safe you are in the middle of the night. Everyone was tourist friendly to boot!

You'll find dedicated bicycle parking almost everywhere. Amazing how many people don't lock their bikes up. Honestly rules!

If Shinsaibashi is for glitzy and galmour shopping, Dotonbori is Osaka's kitchen for restaurants and food. Watch out for my next post on Dotonbori.

My original preference was to stay at Dotonbori Hotel so that Dotonbori, Osaka's kitchen will just a stone throw away. Little did I know that Shinsaibashi Shopping Arcade was just right next to Dotonbori and luckily just a steps away from Hotel Mystays Shinsaibashi.

Takoyaki, arguably ze best well known Osaka fast food. It's a wheat flour-based batter cooked in a special molded pan typically filled with minced or diced octopus, tempura scraps, pickled ginger and green onion. Sauce is similar to worcestershire with mayonnaise added then sprinkled with green laver and dried bonito shavings.

Distinctly known as a Foodie Destination, Dotonbori at night is lit by hundreds of neon lights and mechanized signs including the famous Glico Running Man sign and Kani Doraku crab sign.

This is Ichiran. Dotonbori's best Tonkotsu ramen (also referred to as Hakata-style ramen) It was a rainy night and we battled the long queue to partake in this consistently good, local staple. Open 24/7.

Marshalls attending the line was handing out these flyers for our ramen preference. Good thing there was an english form.

Next was payment at the Vendo machine. 790 JPY for a steaming hot bowl. You can do add-ons (rice, seaweed flakes, egg..etc) to your liking.

Eating here is an experience in itself! A ramen joint! Single serve counters. How cool can that be? Had to wait for 3 simultaneous vacant counters, typical pinoy norm to be eating together.

Hands down... the best ramen! Clean-tasting, rich soup with the softest pork ever. The green onions and garlic over-all complemented the dish. A feast for my palate.

With cool, clean pure water on each counter (free-of-charge)

This street runs parallel to the Dotonbori Canal

Another 24/7 establishment is Don Quijote (Don-ki) for tax-free pasalubong shopping. Think Kitkat matcha, green tea latte, Nissin seafood cup noodles...etc.

Other notable pasalubong items from Kansai Airport, Tokyo Banana and Royce Chocolates

My shopping haul. All consumed as of this writing and dreaming of more!

Now on its 11th year, BDJ continues to make a difference in the lives of Filipinas by encouraging hem to have an unshakeable trust in their hearts to overcome the waves of life and push themselves forward -- without fear, and without limitations.

Join BDJ on October 16 at SM MOA Music Hall as they launch the much coveted 11th edition of the BDJ Power Planner 2017 at the biggest annual fund raising event for various charities and advocacies-- the 8th BDJ Fair: Rise Above the Waves.

Help out and have fun!

Avail the BDJ Fair VIP Pass for only Php200

5 Benefits of the VIP Pass

Attend two (2) talks of your choice
Get access to special activity booths
Pay it forward to a chosen charity
Customize you 2017 BDJ Planner
Receive a special lootbag

Choose 2 Talks From an Exciting line-up:

1:00PM Pushing Yourself Further

Katrina Gumabao shows us the obstacles in getting fit and finding motivation to continue.

2:05PM Empowering Yourself to Succeed

Abbygale Arenas-De Leon speaks about confidence and attitude as the key to success.

3:10PM Spreading Hope A Bottle At a Time

Nanette Medved-Po shares how her passions allow her to be an advocate of hope in the community.

4:15 PM Embracing Flawless Beauty

Maxene Magalona shares how to vercome low self-esteem and highlight your natural beauty.

5:20PM Inspiring Happiness Within

Kate Alvarez shares how she overcame depression and live a life of hope.

6:25PM Heading Out and Making An Impact

Bea Constantino reveals how to overcome beauty and fashion glitches.

Unleash The Inner Crafter in You!

Avail a workshop inclusive of one workshop kit and a VIP Pass-- customize your BDJ Planner, take home a special lootbag, and get access to exclusive VIP booth activities.

Flower Sketching Workshop with Alessa Lanot
Familiarize yourself with floral and botanical structures to help you draw better, Participants will create botanical motifs that will be turned into printed artworks and mantra boards.
Workshop Price: Php1,500

Mandala Painting Workshop with Amos Manlangit
This Mandala activity is self-reflective. It allows your hand to create art based on your emotions having the potential to change how we see ourselves and our life's purpose.
Workshop price: Php1500

Ikigai Project Goal Setting for 2017 with Darlyn Sandra Ty
Understand and develop your reason for being. Maximize your planner to help you discover your true potential and make 2017 your best year yet!
Workshop price: Php1500

Papercut Stenciling Workshop with Mansy Abesamis

Learn how to make intricate papercut stencils. Participants can convert them into lovely cards or into a framed masterpiece to brighten up any space.

Workshop price: Php1500

Get the latest news and update from these official accounts:

Website: ILOVEBDJ.COM

Facebook: Belle de Jour Power Planner

Instagram: BDJBuzz

GIVE-AWAY ALERT:
I'm giving away 5 Free VIP Passes to the #BDJFair2016 to be held on SM MOA, Music Hall on Oct 16. One of the 5 winners will receive her own BDJ 2017 Planner #riseabovethewaves to be picked up on the fair.

Mechanics:
1. Follow @BDJBuzz on IG
2. Comment with your IG name HERE

To BDJ there's more than meets the eye. An annual event where funds are raised for various advocacies supported. This year's BDJ Fair 2016: Rise Above the Waves supports the cause of:

Grace to Be Born, Inc - a temporary shelter for the unwed pregnant mothers and orphanage for the children born there.

Magbasa Kita Foundation - the LIPAD project of MKFI and USAID to empower non-literates in Muslim communities.

Held at SM MOA Music Hall last October 16, 2016 BDJ literally rise above the waves despite the gloomy weather and rainfall warning of typhoon Karen.

The shine is out and bellas came together to learn, experience and have fun through various talks, booths, activities and crafty workshops.

This is also the much awaited launch of 2017 BDJ Power Planner, NAVI, Everything is Possible, Focus Journal and other BDJ paper products.

Free on-site customization for your planners!

VIP Pass holders enjoyed exclusive activities like the Surf Rider, Bungee Jump, Interactive Photobooth and Tarot Card Reading sessions.

An array of fun booths: Mrs Fields, Wacoal, Flawless, ETC Channels, Chef Tony, Red Mango, Serenitea, Keds...

... Ace Water Spa, Vedette, Skin Station, Parisian, Celeteque, Browhaus Strip...

....plus this cutesy mini ball-pit from Jergens.

Bellas, modern day renaissance women who dare to achieve their goals, live their dream lives and makes a difference in the community, while doing everything in great style!

Young and vibrant Maxene Magalona sharing how to overcome low self-esteem and high-lighting natural beauty.

Nanette Medved-Po looked absolutely stunning and divine in her pristine white dress. She's like an angel from above giving Hope in a Bottle. Kudos to her desire to uplift the status of public school education.

Grateful to BDJ for the 11 years of making a difference in the lives of the Filipinas by encouraging us to have an unshakeable trust in our hearts to overcome the waves of life and push us forward - without fear, and without limitations.

Grab your favorite 2017 BDJ Planners now! Get the latest news and update from these official accounts:

Website: ILOVEBDJ.COM

Facebook: Belle de Jour Power Planner

Instagram: BDJBuzz

A sneak peak of the Belle De Jour 2017 PowerPlanner and other exciting BDJ paper products!

The BDJ 2017 Power Planner entitled "Trust Your Heart To Overcome The Waves", this is for the woman who aims to overcome challenges and conquer fears. ( Php598-Php680 )

Discover your reason for getting up in the morning - Ikigai -

Get Things Done with time management principle-based layout
Make The Year Exciting with challenges from the checklist, list of goals, dream boards and more

Stay Fit and Healthy with the health checklist and menstrual tracker pages
Monitor Your Income and Track Your Expenses with the bills and cash flow tracker pages

Over Php40,000 worth of coupons
192 full-color smyth-sewn pages
Exclusive gray leather cover

Expandable back pocket
Stickers to mark special dates
5.85 x 8,25 inches

Navigate through life with Navi 2017 ( Php598 )

Plot Out Your Schedule - Have monopoly of your week. Sketch, write and collect your experiences. Satisfy your curiosity and have them all documented so you can look back and realize how much life has to offer.

Clear Your Route - Keep track of the important things and plan out your ventures - places to go, things to try out, people to meet. Scribble away!

Explore The World - Learn not only about new places you can explore to, but also learn how to be a tourist in your own country - change your perspective and be surprised at the new things you can discover.

Maximize Your Focus Journal 2017 ( Php 450 )

Practice - Handle your thoughts with ease through suggestions presented through a witty play on typography each month. Apply these to your daily activities to cultivate a habit that will help you

Express - Write your thoughts in the weekly layout designed to maximize each page's space to accommodate your own thoughts, schedules and notes.

Reflect- on each month's suggested activities and typographies to figure out which practices work better for you

Reverse-Flip Desktop Calendar. A desk planner with a unique reverse-flip feature that will help your weekly plan, task, list and important notes in a glance.

Desk calendars are usually ubiquitous, big, bulky and mundane, but Viviamo!, Inc.’s latest Undated Calendar Pad is anything but boring! Pretty to look at, the Calendar Pad features tear-off sheets and an overall clean design with an inspiring message.

A new convenient tool from Viviamo!, Inc., the BDJ Daybook, and its 3 versions, Expense, Travel and Fitness, serve as handy reminders for users to log their expenses, travel checklists, and fitness plans on a daily basis.

You're in for a big surprise! Get all these and more at a whooping 20% off! Hurry for a limited time only. Shop online HERE

If you're in Seoul and got an entire day to spare, why not try the winter tours that Trazy.com offers. Choose from various activities: Day Ski/Snowboard/Snow Sled/Ice Fish to your desired ski resort: Jisan, Bearstown, Elysian Gangchon, Vivaldi, Yong Pyong, Phoenix Park or Alpensia. They have cool reasonably priced tours but usually requires 2-3 days advance booking and meet-ups as early as 0700H or 0800H.

But what if it was just a spur of the moment idea? No previous bookings whatsoever? Then continue reading below on how to DIY a ski tour from seoul in your own pace and liking.

Just an hour away from Seoul, Elysian Gangchon is the only ski resort reached via the ITX train in Korea.

Take Subway Line 1: From Seoul Station --- Namyeong --- Yongsan. Fare is 1,250 krw. You can use your T-money. Travel time is approx 5 mins.

Find the ITX ticketing booth at Yongsan Station. Purchase roundtrip tickets to Baegyangri Station. Attendant will ask you to choose from the timetable. Fare is 5,800 krw one-way. T-money cannot be used on ITX train. Travel time is approx an hour.

Normally, ITX has 6 or 7 train cars, please make sure that you get on your reserved car and find the seat on your ticket.

Posted below is the timetable for your reference. ITX Cheongchun only stops at Baekyangri station during winter season ( Dec-Mar ) 4 times on weekdays, 8 times on Sat and 7 times a day on Sundays and Holidays.

Took the 11:00 ITX from Yongsan and reached Baegyangri an hour later 12:01H

An attendant will usher you towards the exit of the Baegyangri Station and will tell you to wait for the free shuttle bus going to Elysian Gangchon.

Hop onto the shuttle bus. As a courtesy, greet the driver "Annyeonghaseyo", the most commnon greeting used in Korean and basically has the same meaning as "hello."

Kindness is like snow...it beautifies everything it covers

Paradise doesn't have to be tropical

Make your way to the cashier and line up for the rentals. Below are the timings and fees.

Since I am just a beginner, I dare not to rent ski lifts. These are for the intermediate and advanced ones who can go down from the high slopes.

For beginners, what's important are: ski rentals 26,000 krw ( includes boots, ski and poles)

... Ski wear 18,000 krw (includes jacket and pants)

Optional: helmets, googles & gloves

For ski boots: One must know his korean shoe size

Locker rentals are available for 1,000 krw. There is a nearby coin machine if you do not have loose change. The above 53 USD budget includes a 6,000 krw meal at Lotteria.

Should you want to eat at Lotteria or at the restaurant at the 2nd floor, one can just park his/her ski equipment at the designated areas. Trust me, nothing gets stolen or lost here.

Tip: The cold weather easily drains your phone battery, bring your trusted powerbank. I managed to charge mine at Lotteria, bringing with me an adaptor.

Snow skiing is not fun. It's life, fully lived, life lived in a blaze of reality.

It may not be as powdery snow as the ski resorts in Alpensia or YongPyong in Pyeongchang ( 3 hours away from Seoul) but it still is soo much fun!

You don't need a hefty sum of money for beginner classes. Watch tutorials from Youtube. My ITX Train back to Yongsan departs at 18:23H and so I must bid goodbye now....

Was supposed to traverse the snowy Shirakawa-go in Nagoya, but due to heavy snowstorm forecast in the region, opted to divert the winter trip to Tokyo, Haneda instead. I had to pay my previous Nagoya Airbnb cancellation charges, so I cannot splurge on a Tokyo hotel accommodation anymore.

After nights of researching budget hotel reviews, I chanced upon Hotel 3000 Jyuraku in Asakusa. I have high praises for this hotel! First, an airport limousine bus stop is just 3-5 minutes away. Second, it is easily accessible to everywhere in Central Tokyo within minutes on the Ginza subway line.

After arriving at Haneda International Passenger Terminal 2F, line up for the Visitor Information Center to buy a 72-hour Tokyo Subway Ticket. Price is JPY 1500. This includes unlimited ride to all Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway lines.

Download the Tokyo Subway Navigation App on your phone for easy peasy directions without the need for wifi. posted below is the Tokyo Subway Map.

Buy a Keikyu Train Ticket direct from the airport to Asakusa Line A18/G19 ( JPY 620 ) No transfers. Fuss-free. However, this train is not included in the unlimited metro 72-hour pass. It may seem scary at first because unlike the Tokyo metro, this type of train doesn't have english lighted buttons on the overhead panels which tells you in which station you are. Just look at the signs at each subway station stop. Alight at Asakusa A18/G19 transfer to Ginza line 1 station away to Tamaramachi.

Find exit 3. The hotel is a 5-7 minutes leisure walk. You will pass by Yoshinoya, Mr Donut, a Saray Kebab kiosk and a grocery mart will be on your left. When you see Denny's and 7-11 on your right, turn left to the alleyway.

I originally booked for a triple room with ensuite bathroom. Price is approx P3,900/night. To our surprise, the hotel keeper generously upgraded us to a quad room with 4 bunk beds, giving us ample space to move around. Arigato gozaimasu! Wifi connection is superb. We had to turn off the aircon because it was a chilly 2-3 degree celcius scenario.

We were given towels and slippers. An ensuite bath tub for calm, peaceful warm soaks. Best deal rather than sharing bathrooms in capsule hotels.

There is a shared lounge space and front desk available 24 hours. Surprisingly, there is free hot and cold beverage dispenser. There is laundromat and dryer for a minimal fee. There is a vendo machine and free use of bicycles.

Nearby on foot, is the famous Sensoji temple in Asakusa. Ladies clad in Kimonos are usual in the area since there are lots of rentals in the vicinity.

This special matcha soft serve ice cream is to die for!

I think I just died and went straight to green tea heaven upon entering this yummy Japanese Maccha Sweets store!

Another nearby attraction from the hotel, is Don Quixote! A 4- storey building of nothing but pure bliss! All the souvenirs you can think of! Snacks, chocolates, groceries, toiletries, makeup, skincare, mens clothing, cosplay costumes. kiddie stuffs, gadgets, electronics, bicycle stuffs and even high-end designer bags and watches.

An aisle of Matcha goodies to with me back home!

We got hold of 4 boxes of Nissin Seafood Cup Noodles. Each box contains 20pcs and costs JPY2500++ (roughly P1,250) or P63 each. What a steal!

Don Quixote is famous to tourists because they offer tax free shopping. Just proceed to 2nd floor cashier to avail this service. Bring your passport, of course. They will give your refunds in an instant!

Within the neighborhood is the sumptuous Yoshinoya for beef and salmon bowls as well as the tasty unagi meal.

The equally delicious Tenya Tempura Tendon is also a walking distance. Have your fill of delicious Tempura. Prices starts at JPY500.

I couldn't have chosen a better hotel than this. We instantly fell in love with this very affordable hotel right smack at Asakusa with all the tourist attractions and almost everything else we could ever need. Staff's are sooo friendly and polite and would bow and bid us good day or good night every time we step in. Hope to come back soon. Will definitely recommend to friends!

If you availed the 72 hrs unlimited metro train pass on my previous post, then the ride to Shibuya Station G01 on the Ginza line is free.

Alight on the the famous Hachiko Exit number 8. Prior to the exit, the connected underground mall greets you with a large window view of the Shibuya Crossing scramble.

A dog's tale of loyalty with Hachiko bronze statue

OOTD on a chilly 5-degree night!

Made a mad dash towards the Shibuya Crossing scramble. It makes you feel that for a moment, you are part of something big. Lots of vids and photos taken, that we had to cross the street numerous times! (Tee-hee)

The glitz and glamour of the Shibuya Shopping Street. I can stay here all night long and ogle at young Tokyoites love for fashion. Everyone is wearing sassy and trendy coats! Ladies are all clad in sky rocket high-heeled boots.

Packed with shopping, dining, gaming and nightclubs serving swarms of visitors that come to the district everyday. Notable is Shibuya 109, a trend setting fashion complex for young women with more than one hundred boutiques on ten floors.

Was seriously considering entering a Maid Cafe for the fun of it, but we wouldn't trade the super delicious hot bowl of Ichiran ramen for anything else. Our first bowl was in Osaka and was daydreaming about it since then.

Take the Ginza Line G19 Asakusa to G2 Omote-Sando. Transfer to Chiyoda Line C04 to C03, just one station away to Meiji-jingumae Harajuku station.

Travel time is approx 37 minutes and involves 1 train transfer

The beautiful Harujuku JR Train Station. The station itself is a tourist attraction in its own right. Just a few leisurely steps away is the famous Takeshita Dori. Here you can find the most extreme teenage culture that Japan is famous for.

It's a massive shopping street of everything trendy yet affordable! You can channel your inner cutesy lolita or adorbs cosplay or kawaii overload. There's 100 yen Daiso stores, cheap and fun jewellery, wardrobe, shoes, bags, callbee and crepe stores.. oh I can just go on and on.. shop after shop...

A tick off my bucketlist to dress up as an animei in Harujuku! Shakugan-No-Shana school girl dark green version.

What's nice about Tokyo, in every nook and corner there is something historical and interesting. After shopping in Takeshita Street, walk towards the nearby Meiji Shrine.

Tranquility in Tokyo. There's a certain serene and calming effect it brings to one's senses. Awed by the fact that Japanese people really respect the Shrine. I can hear a pin drop! No loud chit chats whatsoever. And it was incredibly clean (despite the fact that there are no trashcans whatsoever! ) no candy wrappers, no soiled plastic food containers, no beverage cans. Nada!

The famous sake barrels. After the traditional bows and claps at the shrine, I wanted to see Yoyogi Park eager to catch a glimpse of the plum blossoms. I thought it was just nearby, but we just could'nt seem to find it. Decided to call it a day and headed back to Asakusa.

It was impossible to wake up as early as 0300H to catch the tuna auction at the Tsukiji Fish Market. Trains are still closed and we would probably be freezing in the cold while waiting. So we skipped the auction and visited the outer market instead.

Keep in mind that most of the stores close as early as 1pm. So do your shopping early. Shopping + breakfast rolled into one.

White strawberries! I heard they tastes like pineapples but I'm not spending my precious 4,000 yen for a bunch. Looks really plump and delicious, though.