15 THINGS TO GIVE UP

Today marks the day that I gave up my maiden name

to embrace a good change.

I am now officially carrying my husband's surname.

With all honesty, saying yes in marriage was easier to do

than giving up my name. Hahaha!
And I was asked if it was a Filipino thing.

Kidding aside, I grew up with the knowledge passed to me

by my mother that it signifies nothing but total submission

to your spouse along with the vow you had given to him.

To honor your better half, even the last thing that you own

since you were born will be given up,

YOUR NAME.

So many married women retain their names due to personal reasons.

I thought of it very well and I told myself,

"If I would decide on doing it, I should do it now

because I have all the time to prepare everything since I'm on light duty."

And so I decided to amend it today and it inspired me to write this.

For my DIY Monday, there's a slight twist to what I'm going to present. No handicrafts, no scrapbooking and no art today. Instead, it's a mental makeover to lessen excess baggage on our shoulders. We always say to ourselves "NEVER GIVE UP" but maybe there are some things that we should start letting go of. These are the ones that don't work for us anymore or is not doing our life any better. The month of June marks halfway to the rest of 2014 and it is the best time to reassess yourself and the resolutions you have set last January too.

As "ACHIEVE GOALS" presented,

here are the

15 THINGS TO GIVE UP

1. DOUBTING YOURSELF 

You are given one life only to enjoy here on earth. One life to make your dreams come true, to make that change happen, to experience whatever there is to experience. Don't waste your time doubting if you are capable or not. Don't waste your time thinking if you are worthy of it or how much of something do you deserve. How would others believe in you if you yourself are giving up right before you make things happen? Don't be afraid to take a leap. This is the only way to know your limit and if it's workable or not. Remember, it is innate amongst us humans to find ways on how to cope and adapt. Know yourself very well and accept it. That's the very key NOT to fall into doubting.

2. NEGATIVE THINKING

I remember this afternoon when I was exchanging thoughts with a good friend before we were about to do the parade on a very sunny day. Very sunny that a "HOT WEATHER" warning was hoisted by the local weather observatory. This is the ultimate culprit when your day job deals with the outdoors. We were on the verge of complaining when both of us ended up convincing each other that it WILL NOT make us quit our day job. And that from then on, we will have this mantra to battle negative thinking:

"Be careful with your thoughts, for they may become your words.

Be careful with your words for they may become your actions.

Be careful with your actions for they may become your habits.

Be careful with your habits, for they may become your character.

Be careful with your character for it may become your destiny."

3. FEAR OF FAILURE

FEAR is nothing but a product of our own thinking. We are not perfect and that thought itself gives us a license to learn from our own failures. There's no place for improvement if we don't fail. Imagine if life is too perfect to handle... then there would be no challenges, nothing to bring about excitement and no drive which would make your life worth living. 

4. DESTRUCTIVE RELATIONSHIPS

If you want to live a harmonious life, let go of the negative people that do nothing but make you feel bad about yourself. The last thing that you need in your life is somebody who'd bring you down every time you strive to be better. Learn to say "no" to abusive friends and loved ones. Know your worth. Be real and respect others' differences. Don't wear a mask just to blend in. Don't pretend to be who you're not just to be accepted.

5. GOSSIPING

 This would never do anybody good. Doing this won't make you the "trustworthy" amongst everybody else. It doesn't exempt you from being doubted on because whatever you share to one person leaves him/her doubtful of how come the others share this information to you? It's like working them in two ways, right? And who earns that two-faced label? YOU!

6. CRITICISING YOURSELF AND OTHERS

No judgements should be passed on to others just because they sin differently than you. And the worst part is when you give criticisms as to how they act and how they are living their lives.  There are more other productive things you can do with your time than find faults from your neighbor. Every one of us is entitled to a true friend's criticism, yes. But that is if you need to get awakened of something that may be destructive to yourself and to others. If it doesn't make that criteria at all, be kind to yourself and give away your best asset to others, YOUR GENUINE SMILE.

7. ANGER

There's nothing more liberating than a good night's sleep to start your day. Anger usually hinders you from sleeping well at night because of the rage that takes you far away from being relaxed, at peace and satisfied at the end of the day. Anger could be a root cause of many things that you may regret in the future. Strive to see the goodness of a person, the bigger picture when things don't happen according to how you planned it and in counting your blessings instead of complaining about not getting what you wanted.

8.  COMFORT EATING

The physical body, if nurtured properly, brings our mind to its ultimate efficiency. If we continue to indulge on junk foods, binge eating and unhealthy diet regimes, our brains will continually get confused, thus putting the entire body into an unstable state. It will also be deprived of the nutrients it needs to sustain energy provision for the entire body to act upon, making you sluggish the whole day and dependent of unnecessary treats. Or, it may go thru a hoarding process wherein it stocks up food and chooses to adapt a slower metabolism which may lead to unnecessary weight gain and slower pick up.

9. LAZINESS

Poor diet, lack of sleep and rest and lack of motivation may all be reasons behind a lazy attitude. If you'd allow 10 minutes of laziness per day, you'd be spending 3,650 minutes for the entire year. That is spending more than 60 hours of just plainly being lazy.

Accumulatively, more than 2 days without sleeping, eating and without any breaks.

What a huge waste of time!

Mind you, it's not just 10 minutes that you choose to be lazy in a day, right? In reminding you of the saying, "An idle mind is the workshop of the devil.", awaken your spirit by embracing the idea of learning something new whenever you get a chance. For sure you have wanted to do something else besides what you have achieved by now. Who knows, maybe a hobby, a new learned skill or a craft you have just learned how to do or make, may earn you a buck! So give up being a couch potato and continuously challenge yourself.

10. NEGATIVE SELF TALK

How much "Thank you's!" did you give back to the people who did an effort to compliment on you today? How many of them did you correct that you don't look cute, or you are not doing good, that you were just doing your job? Or how many of them did you actually convince that you are not to be complimented on? All of us have our own special way of leaving an impression to others with the way we carry ourselves and the way we speak of ourselves. With the fast paced lifestyle each of us own in this modern times, when somebody asks you, "How are you?", all that they have time for is hearing you answer, "I'm fine." If you answer with a "So-so", don't expect that they would bother following it up with "Let's talk about it over coffee". Why? They are also carrying their own burdens. Brutal as it may seem, they just actually wanted to avoid a dull moment. So, may I suggest, choose to feel confident. Keep your head up and face the day with a positive outlook. This will radiate to the people and they will perceive it more inviting and invigorating. For some reason, most of us don't take in the praises welcomingly and this somehow retracts that confidence back. It denotes insecurities and this often leads you to become a boring person. Never allow this to happen. Negative self talk makes listeners bored, uninterested and turned off. If you have this habit, start eliminating it from your core. Change it with a habit of starting your day by telling yourself in the mirror, "Today will be a good day because I was born fabulous!"

11. PROCRASTINATION

You are always waiting for the right timing, and when it's there, you always end up becoming a reason machine just to avoid getting something done. You have probably heard this a million times but there's nothing much better to exchange this cliche with so I'm going to say it again with conviction, Nobody is ever ready! Whoever says that he or she is, is delusional. Planning may be perceived as getting ready for something but it's no guarantee that it will end up flawlessly. There's always something unexpected that may happen. No matter how good you have planned something, there'll always be something that may arise. The benefit that you could get from it though is that it would give birth to a new way of learning. It could also give way to a certain strength that you didn't know you had all along. Remember, there is no perfect time but NOW.

12. FEAR OF SUCCESS

The common fears people struggle most of the time with, come from anticipated failures not knowing that we fear success as much. This may be due to how self worth is perceived, or how it was instilled in you since you were young. You have to believe in yourself and you have to let go of the thought that you're not good enough. Life is tough in a way that every way you turn, it's a competition. But the greatest competition you'd ever deal with is the one against yourself. Aim to be a better person than yesterday and everything will follow. Embrace challenges for they will facilitate growth. And love those who had said "No." to you because they are the people that made you find your way into making the impossible, possible.

13. ANYTHING EXCESSIVE

Respect balance. Work hard, play hard. Feed all the aspects of your life and you'll attain balance. You cannot just put yourself to work non stop. You need ample rest too. Take note! "Ample", meaning, "just right". Let me say it again, you cannot indulge in it too much too. You have to build up a sweat to stay healthy and pumped up. Noticed something there? Emphasis on the use of "too much" = EXCESSIVE. Mentally, we sometimes wish so hard of something that may lead to our own despair and frustration. Actually, there's nothing wrong in maximizing your own potential. Just know that everything in excess is expectedly harmful. You may have an argument with yourself that, at a particular time, it was tolerable. But regret is always felt at the end. The worst scenario is when you are at the moment of dealing with irrepairable consequences.

14. PLEASING OTHER PEOPLE

You were not born to meet the expectations of others. Each of us is unique and is bound to serve our own ultimate purpose. I have met a lot of people who wear masks in order to belong. And I, for one, am not a fan. I aim to live in the virtue of honesty. And I apply this in dealing with my own self, with my own preferences, in my own decisions and in my own solidarity. That way, people would perceive me as somebody who has respect for self. And that way, they would know how valuable RESPECT is for me to be given out to people I have met and encountered. With how complex people could be, respect is a must in dealing with cultural differences.

15. PUTTING OTHERS' NEEDS BEFORE YOUR OWN

It is innate amongst humans to be compassionate to all the world's creations. For this last one, nobody is asking you to give up the good samaritan in you. It just simply reminds you to learn the proper prioritization. Sometimes, we are more of service to others than our own self. I'll take the life of an overseas worker for example. 90% of these overseas workers have families depending on them in their own country. And, more than half of the hard earned salary are sent to them. Most often than not, they keep their expenses at a minimum for the families at home. Not knowing that the families at home are living extravagantly compared to the one resisting not eating good food just to be able to send enough. Because they don't eat well and they don't get enough rest, plus the fact that they are away from their loved ones, they easily get sick or depressed. I find this real-life example unfair. I guess applying the principle of keeping it balanced could help. Treat yourself when you can and pamper it to stay rejuvenated.

I'll be honest, in order to embrace change, you should be willing to give up a piece of what used to belong to you. It's that security blanket that you can't bear loosing that keeps your soul from gaining something. Don't be scared to feel this loss because it's the only way you could vacate space for something new. At every stage of growth and development, change happens. And at one point, we will lose the things that we hold on so dear. It is inevitable. But the moment that you accept this fact, it will be easier for you to adapt and conquer the fear it nurtures.

I would like to hear your opinion. What else do you think should be added to this list that should be given up in order to live your life freely? Leave your comment below and feel free to discuss your opinion.

Related posts:

1. WHICH DO YOU EAT MORE? - Some common eating disorders that you yourself maybe having.

2. 100 HAPPY DAYS - What is it about and why I started.

3. BUCKET LIST - What's in yours?

SUMMER 2014 PLAYLIST

The first month of Summer in Hong Kong is here and it's time to have a makeover of that video playlist to get you up on time everyday.

1. LA LA LA (BRAZIL 2014) FT. CARLINHOS BROWN BY SHAKIRA

This first video is a mix of house music and Spanish Mardigras beats as I listen to it starring none other than Shakira. Once again, she embraces her unique gift as she dances freely featuring a football crazed MTV that even animals are into it. The World Cup is expected to open in Brazil in less than a month as it is the host for this season.

2. FIRST LOVE BY JENNIFER LOPEZ

To those who had told Jennifer Lopez, "Bitch be gone!", sorry to disappoint you. She is still a competition despite the age and a line of controversies. I particularly admire how she had sustained her taste for innovation and how she is proving that success is sweet the second time around. 

The lyrics are right for her though in finding the first love so that she doesn't have to bounce from one relationship to another. Good thing for other people (Ben Affleck), they know how to channel their frustrations to something productive (the movie, "ARGO").

3. PRETTY HURTS BY BEYONCE

Miss USA competition is about to commence this June and I can't help but think about the contestants involved. Or maybe, to all the girls that aspire to be on stage in general. I am wondering how much of the truth is laid out and I agree with this video that says it all of what price you pay to just be given the label "pretty". So many that are in the limelight (beauty queens, ballerinas, actors, performers) are expected to be skinny in order to belong to the "beautiful" group.  Reality bites alright.

4. "IT'S ON AGAIN" BY ALICIA KEYS FT. KENDRICK LAMAR

I'm not a fan of the movie, "The Amazing Superman" but of Alicia Keys? No doubt. A feel good beat though there are some segments of the song (chorus) I find awkwardly tuned or put together. I love how her hair is pimped in this video. It actually reminds me of the old hairstyle that was fashioned by old school rock bands like Roxette and New Kids on the Block. But it gives her face a fresh look. This new vibe she's giving out is fab, chick and daring. I love it!

5. "SUMMER" BY CALVIN HARRIS

A perfect beat to put on this Summer is this house music bound by love, good experiences and memorable time (in lyrics) which everybody, and I mean EVERYBODY expects during this time of the year. Gather your friends, share a good time and play this music to set it all right.

6. "WE ARE ONE (OLE OLA)" BY PITBULL, CLAUDIA LEITTE AND JENNIFER LOPEZ

It's not just me who commented that Shakira had done a better World Cup anthem as this one that you are about to see is the official 2014 World Cup Song. My personal comments go:

- The beats are dull.

- Pitbull is just too fancy to sing about "being one" with the people or the sport. I don't even know if he can do any sports for that matter.

- It's not different from the songs he and Jennifer Lopez had worked on. People won't remember it as much as "Waka Waka" of Shakira previously.

Here's an overview from www.billboard.com. See for yourself. Meanwhile, here's the video and you can be its own judge. Let me know of what you think about it compared to Shakira's by commenting below.

7.  "LOVE NEVER FELT SO GOOD" BY MICHAEL JACKSON AND ADD ONS BY JUSTIN TIMBERLAKE

For the lovers of life and to celebrate it as much as how Michael Jackson's fans, friends and colleagues, do in coming up with this song, listen up and get inspired on how to get immortalised. We all know that Michael Jackson had been one of the starters of MTV, left a huge influence on all musicians in the world, and most importantly, emphasised LOVE in all his works, music and dance. I admire the unity of all races that this video shows. Still, he's able to make people come together in the name of music even when he's gone. Long live MJ!

To the readers, thanks for dropping by and advanced one
to people who'll share it too because the more people who'll
watch the La La La Song by Shakira,
the more hungry children will be fed in schools
that offer free enrolment to the less unfortunate ones.
GOD BLESS US ALL.

Related posts:

1. SUMMER IS HERE - how to go up and about and what to do this Summer season.

2. 10 THINGS I LOVE ABOUT HONG KONG - let me know if you agree and love these too.

3. ANGSANA LAGUNA, PHUKET - needing a place to stay in Phuket this holiday season?
4. WHICH DO YOU EAT MORE - a post about common eating disorders

SUMMER IS HERE!

Hello there fellas!!!

The month of May will have its last weekend soon and that means only one thing. SUMMER is fast approaching. And besides the summer breaks that youngsters look forward to, activities here and there are just overflowing. While the sun is up and shining, endorphins run freely amongst us that drives us to be alive, adventurous and up and about.

A line of events is what I wanted to share to you in this blog post that may help you zest up your summer vacay.

MAY 30

Mitu's tribe at Bahce Turkish Restaurant

You may be wanting to try something different here in Hong Kong as far as Turkish food and a one-of-a-kind ambiance are concerned. Lantau Island holds a gem that offers good company, delicious food and fabulous music as my good friend, Khaya Mshengoristo Maseko, who recently just banged a role in the UK Tour, Lion King, joins Mitu's Tribe. Mitu's Tribe had been one of the most developed group of musicians that had marked good times in Bahce Turkish Restaurant, whose performance is looked forward to by locals of the island and by those who have experienced hearing them play. I am inviting you to come out to feel the summer breeze in Lantau and hear them out by dropping by on Friday between 9pm to 12am.

MAY 31

Macau is the place to be this weekend as South Africa's WBA undisputed featherweight world champion Simpiwe "V12" Vetyeka competes with Philippines' Three Division World Champion and 2012 Fighter of the Year, Nonito "the Flash" Donaire in Cotai Arena at The Venetian Macau Resort in Macau, China.

Donaire (mistakenly pronounced as "Doh-neyr" but should actually be "Doh-nigh-re"), who was born in Talibon, Bohol, Philippines grew up in General Santos city like Manny "Pacman" Pacquiao and went to school together at one point. But at age 11, he lived with his dad in in San Leandro Bay Area and was exposed to boxing to channel out his energy to sports and to get him out of the streets. Now, he is  considered a Filipino American professional boxer as he had worked out the ladder from one victory to another with a promise to himself not to disappoint all that supported him, most especially his father, after a loss to Rosendo Sanchez in 2001. From then on, he owned a winning streak for 12 years. 

Early years in boxing had almost made him dread the sport because of too much pressure and he had come to a point that he didn't enjoy it anymore. But once again, he stayed in the sport for his love of his father and will prove that as he steps on the ring this Saturday. He won against Vic Darchinyan, landing a left hook over a non-title fight in his last battle. 

All the best to you fellow Filipino, Nonito!!! 

JUNE 1 & JUNE 2:

Of course, special mention to the hot and sizzling dragon boat races that will be held in Discovery Bay and Stanley beaches this coming June 1 and June 2 respectively. It's not to be missed as it is a long weekend for most of the companies considering June 2 (Monday) as a holiday.

2013 TEAM MUSHU Achievements

Once a Mushu, always a Mushu! So let me plug them and the Magic Team, both from Hong Kong Disneyland, who had worked hard as they will be joining the mentioned races.

As we all know, TEAM MUSHU becoming one of the strongest teams to beat, will once again come out to defend a title for the Dragon Boat Race Competition held annually in Discovery Bay. It surely would be full of fun and adrenaline rush as they come to bring heart pumping action both at the race and on stage. Their cheerleading team had always been a guest performer showing off bursting split jumps on air and mighty entertaining pyramids and stunts. Their performance usually comes right before the awardings happen. This was taken last 2012 when I used to still be a part of it. In 2013, I trained to paddle instead with my husband.

I was just able to race one time because now, we're expecting our little one

so I will just be one of the expectators for now.

Needless to say, I'll always be my husband's no. 1 fan so I will come

out to support this Sunday for sure..

With the words, "ONE TEAM, ONE HEART!", allow me to share their road to victory last 2013.

With the SunLife Stanley Dragon Boat Races, the Magic Team will be competing against a huge number of teams. Now, very much advertised on TV, I'm pretty sure they will not come unprepared. They are driven, they are fearless and they will race their heart out and all out support on them too. A shoutout to my friend Sylvia Tsang who had recently joined the team, Ga Yao!!!!

Also happening on June 1 is a recital where Disney babies (some of the Disney cast members's kids are performing) will be featuring a presentation. Edge'n Pointe Dance Centre is holding this event where in the proceeds is aimed into granting a dance scholarship program for the less privileged children in Tung Chung.

If you are looking for an inspiration for your little one as to what to engage in this summer, come and take them to this recital and maybe their interest in dancing might get ignited. Who knows? You might be watching them the next time during their own recital.

JUNE 6 TO JUNE 8

KIDSFEST offers a 10% discount to the upcoming drama theatre play, Rapunzel. All you have to do is quote ABA14 as you book your ticket via www.hkticketing.com or by calling 31 288 288.

Remember, "THE ONLY WAY YOUR KID WOULD GO OUT, IS IF YOU GO WITH THEM." So, between these two, (dance recital and drama theatre), you can bond with your kid and you'd give them something to think about, get inspired with and talk non stop why their 2014 summer break is an unforgettable one.


JUNE 8

MISS NEVADA 2014 - NIA SANCHEZ

Don't miss out also on vegging out at home over the tube. Believe it or not, this is the time of my life where you have to get off your butt, to earn a buck. So, I treat it as one of the luxurious moments nowadays. Hahaha! It is rejuvenating and I give it to myself every chance I get. But there's got to be something special on the tube for that.

A very good colleague turned friend had been blessed with a chance to compete against the beauties of the United States of America. I am rooting for her on this day as she stands up for what an American Beauty is all about. I know Nia Sanchez, this year's reigning Ms. Nevada USA, from work and there's only one thing I could tell about her. She doesn't have a problem keeping it real. I hope you make it Nia!!! Supporting ya all the way from Hong Kong.

To those who want to stream the pageant online, click here.


JUNE 14

As unpredictable as the weather in Hong Kong is, opportunities may knock only once. So instead of laying low and relaxing this Summer, challenge yourself to something that could change your life. Try for the Vocalist Audition in Manila this June 14, 2014 Saturday to know if your dreams are meant to be lived. Check the poster for details.

JUNE 22

For those who are in Hong Kong already and are interested to be part of our family, there's an audition happening at the end of June for dancers this time. So, if you got the passion, the time and what it takes in spreading magic, here are the details for you.

Have you chosen anything yet?

Well, the beach awaits you, hiking is yet another adventure that you may try too and basically exploring Hong Kong - those are additional splendid ways to make memories for Summer this 2014. Are you ready?

Related posts:

1. ANGSANA LAGUNA, PHUKET - our honeymoon experience

2. BORACAY '13 - why it's worth going back to

3. 10 THINGS I LOVE ABOUT HONG KONG - why it maybe a good time to explore Hong Kong this Summer of 2014.

ANGSANA LAGUNA, PHUKET

Angsana Laguna, Phuket is located in scenic Bang Tao Bay, Phuket’s most coveted resort address.

Just 20 minutes from bustling Phuket Town

and the Phuket International Airport,

lies the contemporary beachfront resort

with unrivalled access to the emerald waters

of the Andaman Sea.

- www.angsana.com/en/phuket/ -

Angsana Laguna Phuket features vibrant and stylish rooms and facilities designed for the dynamic cosmopolitan traveller. Rust and lavender are its hues giving you that relaxed, earthly feel as it nestles on the green landscape in the middle of the blue waters giving you an oasis in a lagoon as you view it from the top.

Angsana Laguna, Phuket
(top view)

If you'd see the date at the bottom, it was booked on
October 3 when our flight is Nov. 7-12...

My husband who hated flying opted for a 2 hour trip at least for our honeymoon and so I ended up researching on good places to stay in Phuket. I stumbled into this serene resort offering the best package for the whole 7 days we have to spare. With full trust in ZUJI, I checked their package online and it offered a Laguna Room overlooking different views depending on your liking: the beach-designed common pool, the lagoon or the beautiful landscape that surrounds the resort, not to mention it comes with daily breakfast. As the countdown approaches to our actual trip, I always check out the photos which made my anticipation truly at its highest level.

But an omen makes its debut...

Three days before we depart, I checked on our booking, reservations and transportation when Angsana Laguna's reception desk itself, gave me a totally stressful time saying our booking doesn't exist, there's no such reference number and that they are not partners with ZUJI! I was so furious. I booked it a month ago?! So, I had to call ZUJI in between my shows and there you go, ZUJI to the rescue, cleared it out, contacted me back and gave me a go signal once again that Angsana just misunderstood the reservation process. I must say that wasn't a good start already on the resort's behalf. In an attempt not to dwell on the negative, I had let it go. Anyway, it was amended by the staff and everything went fine.

We flew in via Thai Airways. And I give that airlines 5 stars for their service. I never liked airplane food but they served it with good bread and dessert. The flight crew was genuinely accommodating and can speak good, proper English. The comfort that goes with it was superb (not bad for ECONOMY class). The interior is already good as far as how the seats are wide enough but the colors whisper the word "RELAX..." and that's what most of the airlines lack. You see, I have to emphasize on the "comfotable seats" because my husband is a Samoan and he always complains about it and this is one of the reasons why he hates flying. Without bias, I recommend this airline for your 3 hour, 23 minutes of flying from Hong Kong to Phuket. It will be worth your every penny. We didn't experience any delays to and from Hong Kong too.

Thai Airways - Economy Class
They don't force 4 seats in the middle, hence giving more
space for people in the Economy Class to feel more comfortable.

Phuket Airport, is swarmed with taxi services, package stays that are truly tempting and it's up to you if you'd go for it or not. Most have booked it online before they left their country of origin but my husband and I had set ourselves to a "go-with-the-flow" move. We didn't want to program our day as the tours dictate (leaving early in the morning to go see the islands, reserve an entire day for tour or choosing the shows to watch right then and there). We exchanged our moola first to Thai Baht and we are very much surprised that their rates are even better than Hong Kong's. We regret exchanging a few thousands back here when it's hassle free to have it changed in Phuket.

Going out, all taxis in Phuket look like private vehicles. They have no meter and they just charge you with a fixed price. Depending on the location (and most probably, skin color or status - if you're a tourist or a local), there is a corresponding price as per trip. It is pretty pricey. One way from the airport maybe around 450 let's say to Patong Beach. But originally, it is just around 400 (during Novermber, 2013 experience), then 2 way is 700 if you're going to ride the same taxi. Our experience of the first taxi ride in Phuket got extended as our driver brought us to an agency that she probably gets commission from if her guests would book tourist packages from them. Yet again, my husband and I just wanted to settle first in the hotel. So, she had no luck with us. We had to request her to just go straight where we asked her to bring us the first time. Yes, drivers there are both women and men.

Upon reaching the hotel, a 10,000 Baht deposit was asked as identification had been checked corresponding to the reservation made. Just like how majority of the hotels are, they just had to collect deposit when our paper (printed confirmation for our reservation) "actually" said (sent by ZUJI),

• "The package prices shown above do not include service charges, resort fees, child fees, or any other incidentals unless otherwise noted. Any incidental charges at your hotel (parking, phone calls, room service, energy, or any additional surcharges) will be handled directly between you and the hotel."

I always check stuff like this just to be sure so I followed it. We didn't set aside an additional 10k Baht for it so we had to spare some of our cash for the said amount. It was all good because we thought it's going to be easy to do room service with it anyways. We just had to change our money again once we get in the city.

Here we go, welcoming drinks were given as they prepared the room for us. That was H-E-A-V-E-N!!! Anklets were given for a souvenir and we were given hot facial towels. The drink was Thailand's rose lavender tea - very very refreshing! From Thai aiways, all the way to Angsana Laguna Phuket the hues: brown, purple combined with the sea, the sand and the sun is very very relaxing for me. Hogan said the place looked nice. Though as we were brought to our room, we noticed something old about the interior and that somehow of the entire building. We're sure it's newly built but so many parts of it aren't maintained and were not well kept.

The biggest disappointment happened (and this was during the first day). The idea is, we are on our HONEYMOON for crying out loud and this was how the beds were.

Twin beds on our honeymoon? So SWEET!!!! Hahahaha!

So we called the front desk immediately and had asked to change it. Options were, to change it into a king sized bed or transfer us to another "Laguna Room". The next call said the only option is to bring the beds together since they have no available king sized bed at the moment and that all Laguna rooms are occupied. But I made them understand that how can this be when I did the reservation a month ago. They reasoned out to us that the particular time we are there is considered the peak amongst Russian visitors. So, the 40 sqm Deluxe Laguna room that we found so inviting upon booking was not given justice when we got there. Most of the time, we can't help but just go, "OHMMMMM!!!!" Hahahaha! Additional expectation had gone downscale when some of the amenities didn't meet our satisfaction meter either. Here is a copied list from their website of the said amenities:

•40 LCD TV


•Audio system

•Dual line telephone (inclusive of voice mail) / IDD Telephone

•Unlimited High-Speed Wireless Internet Access

•In-room electronic safe

•Mini-bar

This was how it was presented beautifully online.

•Tea and coffee-making facilities

•Hairdryer

•Bathrobes and slippers

•Complimentary daily newspaper (local)

•24 Hour room service

•Complimentary bottled water

•Pillow selection menu

•Angsana Signature Collection Amenities

•Writing Desk

•Private furnished balcony

•Nightly turndown service

•Individually controlled air conditioning and ceiling fan

•Sealy Posturepedic mattress

•Floor to ceiling sliding window doors

•Sunken bathtub (selected rooms)

•Non-smoking rooms available

Allow me to mention specially the following:



Their pouch was complete
and hotels which uses Colgate for
their toothpaste supply is always
a thumbs up for me.

Posturepedic mattresses are a zero. Since they had to put together the beds, we had to sleep uncomfortably for the whole stay because of the gap. We were together when we were about the sleep but come morning of the next day, we are separated already owning our good side of the bed, which is far apart. Unacceptable most especially if your guests had booked it for their honeymoon and a month ahead.

Tea and coffe - making facilities were nowhere to be found.

We were never given no pillow selection moment;

nor no delivery of daily newspaper happened.

Angsana Signature Collection Amenities were rad I must say. They were checked everyday and refilled everyday. They had left instructions asking to leave the pouch behind though so, I realized, there was really no signatured amenity, was there? Because all of those were disposable anyways. The towelette? No, you can't take that.

Slippers that were given were old and was used before I'm sure. Being labeled as a 5 star resort/hotel, it should at least be wrapped in a dry cloth labeled, ""SANITIZED" but, it was pretty "maputim" (English translation: Beige in colour but has that blackish look around the edges).

Not included in the list that we found faulty were the bedside lamps (which needed repair so badly), hair dryer (so old, it smells like it's burning when used) and the Elephant displays that you may notice to be hanged over the bed's head board. They light up when you put out all the lights. But the other one on the right when we were there was not working at all. Sigh.... I was patient that time but my husband was saying, "Oh no! You just gave my wife something to write." And I just laughed.

We ordered room service to calm us down and we planned to go out to the mall for dinner for our first night. Hogan started becoming comfortable and he checked the bar right away, went for a dip in the pool while I plug our laptop to check the internet connection and to put on some party music. Unpacked, showered, took some photos and checked itineraries online. I also planned a day for us to check the place. My husband and I were pretty booked the entire Halloween with a lot of shows 'til midnight before this vacation had happened. We know that we have the whole 7 days for it so we really reserved a day to check on what's good to see, eat and witness in Phuket upon reaching our hotel rather than spend a lot of time doing that at home. Our maid in honour, Aima and her family too were coming to Phuket so we reserved a day to get together with them for her birthday. So all set with itineraries. All of a sudden, room service comes offering this at hand with the apologetic card.

I find it sincere, yes. But we are talking about a 5-star hotel and as I am knowledgeable that there are 184 Laguna Rooms all over the resort, it was pretty disappointing that they can't even transfer us into a better room. My husband doesn't even like wine. So, yes, 3/4's were mine alone. I was also thinking what if we were totally non-alcoholic drinkers? It didn't solve that much dissatisfaction with just a bottle wine, did it?

Happy on your honeymoon?
I find it as a commanding statement.
It ain't wishing us a happy one at all.

Seriously, I personally thought of asking for a reimbursement and just go and rebook another venue but, it was prepaid already and it stated in our documents that it emphasised about the NO RETURN, NO EXCHANGE POLICY. It left us with no choice. And speaking of having no choice, every time they would clean the room, they always leave this "Save the Earth" souvenir. I think they left 3 or 4 in our room. I thought that was a token since we faithfully kept our hotel towels well hanged since we wanted to be environment friendly. We didn't know it was this "Green Imperative Fund" worth 30 Baht in our bill. I find it a scam because of the very nature that we didn't choose to have that, nor were we oriented about this. My husband just let go of it instead of it being a source of STRESS!

But then we can't control the situation,

let's control how we look at it.

I took a breather so Hogan and I went and hang by the veranda, a beautiful view awaits. A swimming pool surrounds the entire resort and gives it the lagoon vibe. Complete with cozy sunbathing chairs where you can lounge on to get a good sun, a bar also was built in the middle for easy access to cater you with refreshments. We loved it particularly because of the barista that served us. And you need not worry about bringing cash with you as you can just charge it up to your hotel room tab.

Coming out of our veranda, this is our view from center to the right side.

The bar in the middle of the extensive pool's length.
Visible from the room.

Photo op with the baby elephant having a morning stroll around the resort.

Our first day had passed and the next morning, we went and check out the breakfast buffet. Russians swarmed the place. It was a pretty setup most especially when the sun shines bright and welcomes you along with the blue lagoon. You can choose a romantic spot for two outdoors or get hold of the wide array of food indoors as you sit closely by it. I was continuously researching on my husband's thoughts and expectations.  He said, the food was basically the same everyday. I enjoyed it since I went for different choices every morning. Compared to him, he always resorts to eating bacon, omelette and fruits. Probably he didn't see anything that much appealing but congee, oatmeal and different kinds of bread were served. Which he has no preference of. Angsana is popular amongst families going on holidays because of the fun experiences that await not only the adults but also the kids. If you are a morning person, there may be a chance for you to encounter their pet baby elephants that go for a walk, shower and feeding during this time of the day and late afternoon. That was actually something you don't see everyday. They are playful as well and are harmless. We could tell that they are very well taken care of and are not restrained in any way so we were alright with that. Both my Hogan and I are animal lovers and we hate animal abuse of any sort. Breakfast is served from 6-10am. The good points go to the full out choices for juices, bread and freshly cooked omelette.

Angsana breakfast

The resort's interior is amazing and so were the spa treatments. With staff pursuing you to buy Angsana properties every morning though were annoying. But in general, we loved our stay there. It's not about anything else but it was a fun relaxing time with my husband and we are more than grateful for having a smooth, safe trip. We were hesitant to post pictures back then because the Haiyan typhoon was happening at the same time.

Like how I described it earlier, it is a huge resort. You can book this ride at the frot desk (first come, first served) if you desire to go to a restaurant or any location within the vicinity.

The lagoon stretches out to 4 to 5 mini piers with 2 bamboo rafts sailing every 20 minutes to bring you to different sides of the resort. We tried to ride it to get into the beach front and it was again a very relaxing experience. It makes you forget the fast paced life of the city and it calms your mind and body with all the trees and clear waters at view.

Here are the other memorable shots around the resort.

This was late in the afternoon when we spotted the baby elephant
playing with the people by the volleyball court.
I was actually scared to go near because it was so playful
at that time so I just had the just with him in the background.
We don't want a honeymoon turned disastrous Hahahaha!

With Aima, our maid of honour by our veranda.
November babies ready to watch Phuket Phantasea.

Behind Hogan is the lounge bar.
It plays super mellow music at night even on a Saturday.
A resort for the "family" - check!
No LOUD music.

Infinity pool

Safety precautions is a must.
So, this was an A+.

Cheers!!!

Room service is always the best!

This is a stairway that extends from the lobby to
an outdoor view of the resort extending to the beach.
Very good place for meditation, reflection
and photo op. Hehehehe!

Angsana lobby

Now, we are expecting our baby and my husband said, he would want to come back and give it another chance. He likes how serene it is. We both took the opportunity to relax from work and it helped us gain strength in preparation for our little budding family. Rest from those 7 days did us both good since we really planned for a little one during the same month.

Last night of seafood indulgence by the beach.

Frankly, if you'd book Angsana, you would want to be ready with your cash at hand. It takes a taxi ride to go to destinations outside the resort. So, access to money exchange with desired rate may be limited. They have an international atm machine within the vicinity though. But of course, to avoid international fees to be paid upon atm card usage, bringing right amount of cash is still better.

If you're going to ride the taxi every time, it wouldn't be so practical. There was a mentioned shuttle service but this just covers the entirety of the whole 4 resorts but if you'd go to Patong and everywhere else, you may have to take a cab or a tuktuk outside the resort's gates. 

Souvenir shops were also at bay. There are old women offering massage services that may cost from 200-700 Baht depending on the kind of massage you want. The setup is the same as how they have in Boracay.

This is how the beach looks like by Angsana, very very beautiful.

Also, restaurants inside Angsana Laguna are costly while the pub restaurants by the beach (which is already outside its borders) offer delicious seafood meals and authentic Thai delicacies. It's also a bonus that you don't just engulf good seafood but also, the serenity the seaside offers. The sound of the waves are soothing, the cold wind mesmerising, and my husband was a beautiful sight so the time given to us to spend there is incomparable. It's actually our first trip that it's just us alone. It's usually with friends or to visit family.

So, to some of you who probably may have stumbled on this post researching about Angsana Laguna, Phuket, I have pretty much shared the stuff you needed to know. This was just really too long to put in the reviews at Tripadvisor so... there you go! It's that season of holiday trips again and you might consider Phuket as your next destination. Post about the activities we did will come soon.

Related posts:
1. BORACAY 2013 - Our stay at Microtel, Boracay
2. THE GROVE - a movie experience around L.A.
3. 10 THINGS I LOVE ABOUT HONG KONG - How I see it while living here for 7 years now.

RUBY TUESDAY

An American/Western restaurant situated at Shop 304, 3/F, Silvercord, 30 Canton Road, Tsim Sha Tsui called RUBY TUESDAY is a true gem for lovers of french fries, burgers and roasted ribs. With its new offer of the Garden Bar, it makes it more irresistable to those craving for an authentic American taste. With a budget of HK$150-180 per person, you can enjoy a fine-dining experience in a restaurant designed with warm burgundy wood and comfortable counter seats. There are also a set of tables and chairs ready to cater a romantic evening for couples who wish to get secluded from dining families or feasting crowds.

Junior and TK sharing over the
jumbo ruby drink. 

Good friends, Junior and TK, have brought us here for a farewell dinner for my husband who was bound to have a long vacation with his brother to Samoa. He has to attend his mom's 70th birthday together with their other siblings who reside overseas too. In short, it was going to be a grand reunion requiring a long time to stay there so they took us out (I wasn't going to travel with him because I am pregnant and was restricted to fly so this was really an eventful dinner for all of us courtesy of Junior and TK). Such a lovely gesture by doing the reservations and all. It was my first time to eat in Ruby Tuesday but I heard a lot about it serving tasty premium ribs so I got excited too.

So..... going back to featuring Ruby Tuesday, you can book your preferred date and time with the seating capacity desired by calling 2892 0883. To reach the place, you can take the train to TST (Tsim Sha Tsui) then take Exit C1. It's almost across Din Tai Fung as it shares the same floor. They are open from Monday to Sunday from 11:30am to 10:30pm. Here is the array of food we had.

Spaghetti Bolognese for Round Round

1/2 slab Premium Barbecue Ribs
for everybody to share

Hamburger and fries - the serving is perfect
according to my brother-in-law

Mediterranean Shrimp Pasta was good for
2 people with big appetite; may share on

Remarkable for me was the ribs, nachos and TK's jumbo ruby drink. Once in a while, it's good to come here for a change of cuisine and if you have foreigner friends who are dying to have a break from all the Chinese food they have been taking in. As I have recommended this to my friend, Tin, she and her family had a great time as it was a good place to celebrate their wedding anniversary there too. The kids were not big eaters but they had their preferences and they ended up getting surprised with how much the servings were. They (the servings) were huge for Asians like me, I am not sure if it goes the same with that of the American's perception. Maybe it could be just right.

So much so for my review, I am one satisfied customer considering all the factors. Food, price, location, ambiance, - all a check.

Related posts:

1. DIN TAI FUNG - famous Chinese restau for its Xiao Lung Pao
2. MUI KEE - a traitional ghetto Chinese restau that offers the best beer in Hong Kong
3. GOOD TO KNOW - some of the tips about food I hold dear to my heart