Explore Japan and Get Cozy at Karaksa Hotel

     My ultimate dream destination is in the land of the rising sun, Japan! I have a thing with Japanese culture and studying basic Nihonggo when I was in college is one of the proof that I'm so in love with their culture. It's every Pinoy traveler’s dream destination-why wouldn’t it be, the place is screaming with so much culture and life, and every attraction is bucket-list worthy: the gleaming temples and architectures, modern cityscapes a la sci-fi film, stunning parks in vibrant colors, heavenly hot springs—all begging to be explored. In fact, Japan is the fourth most-visited country in Asia last year according to the World Tourism Organization, so it’s no doubt that it’s on top of most people’s bucket lists.

     I'm saving big time for our Japan trip in the future and when travel comes to mind, the first thing to consider is the accommodation. Where to stay and how much will it cost? I think I've found an answer that I'm sharing with you after the jump :)

Explore Japan and Get Cozy at Karaksa Hotel
photo from pexels.com

Cebu Pacific GetGo Visa Debit and Credit Cards by UnionBank #FlyForFreeFaster Launch

     I always stay at home when I don't have events. It's my ultimate comfort zone where I feel secure, at ease and without stress. Even though there are bunch of things to do like household chores or taking good care of my son, I always feel relax at home. If you'll ask me how many times I travel or go on a vacation or staycation a year, prolly my answer will range from 0-1. I travel only when we need to go to our province to attend a special occasion. Most of what my so-called 'travels' are only by land. 

     For some this 'travel' of mine is a common thing, a day-to-day happening and the real T.R.A.V.E.L. requires more. I consider travelling abroad for a vacation luxury. Think of buying a plane ticket, booking for a hotel room, planning the itineraries, and of course the pocket money that you'll bring to enjoy your vacation. Two weeks ago, I was invited by Unionbank, GetGo, and Cebu Pacific for an overnight staycation at Ascott BGC. It's my first staycation and this event is for the books. Sharing with you some highlights of the event below and why having a Cebu Pacific GetGo Visa Debit and Credit Cards by UnionBank to #FlyFasterForFree is highly recommended for the frequent and first-time travellers :)

Cebu Pacific GetGo Visa Debit and Credit Cards by UnionBank #FlyForFreeFaster Launch
image from google.com

   
     Sharing with you what happened during our staycation at Ascott BGC courtesy of UnionBank last May 30-31, 2016. It was a day full of surprises- everyone was so excited to meet the new fleet of cards that will make everyone #FlyFasterForFree but bigger surprises came along that day. I was so happy, it's my first staycation with my family and they made it extra special.

Cebu Pacific GetGo Visa Debit and Credit Cards by UnionBank #FlyForFreeFaster Launch
Our room at Ascott BGC

   
     Upon our arrival at Ascott, the team from Cebu Pacific GetGo and UnionBank prepared a special game for us. They handed us our very own Cebu Pacific GetGo Visa Debit Card that day and told us to shop so we can experience how to use it.

Cebu Pacific GetGo Visa Debit and Credit Cards by UnionBank #FlyForFreeFaster Launch
L-R: Kaye, Rochelle, Kath, and Jenny

   
     This card is ideal for everyday and online purchases, the Cebu Pacific GetGo Visa Debit Card by UnionBank is the first and only debit card in the market that earns GetGo Points. Cardholders enjoy 1 GetGo point for every P88 spent using their card, and these points are automatically transferred to their enrolled GetGo account. Plus, they also enjoy no maintaining balance requirement on the account. 

Cebu Pacific GetGo Visa Debit and Credit Cards by UnionBank #FlyForFreeFaster Launch
Cebu Pacific GetGo Visa Debit Card by UnionBank

   
     The mission that afternoon was to shop for travel essentials that we'll be bringing on our next travel destination. We headed over to R.O.X BGC to shop for things that we will bring on our trip, may it be within the country or abroad. There's a time limit so I need to think and shop fast. No need to worry about the money to spend because they've loaded our debit cards with 8,800 php to be exact.

Cebu Pacific GetGo Visa Debit and Credit Cards by UnionBank #FlyForFreeFaster Launch
Travel essentials haul from R.O.X

   
     Whoa! That's a lot and what's more surprising is that for every swipe using the Cebu Pacific GetGo Visa Debit Card by UnionBank, I'll be earning GetGo points that I can use to book for my next travel. Time-pressured for 10 minutes but I still managed to shop for travel essentials not only for myself but for my husband and my son.

Cebu Pacific GetGo Visa Debit and Credit Cards by UnionBank #FlyForFreeFaster Launch

     

     After the challenging game, it's time to chill out to fly. This time, we were in for a night of fun and games at Unit 27 Bar + Cafe. UnionBank and Cebu Pacific team through its lifestyle rewards program, GetGo, and in conjunction with Visa, launched the newest fleet of cards that night. 

Cebu Pacific GetGo Visa Debit and Credit Cards by UnionBank #FlyForFreeFaster Launch
L-R: Kaye F, Moi, Rochelle, and Jenny
Thank you, Kaye, for this lovely photo

     

     They revealed to us why these cards will let you #FlyForFreeFaster and earn GetGo points that you can use to book for your flights or use to shop.

Cebu Pacific GetGo Visa Debit and Credit Cards by UnionBank #FlyForFreeFaster Launch

Cebu Pacific GetGo Visa Debit and Credit Cards by UnionBank 

• These are the only cards that directly earn GetGo points from everyday spend. 
• These points are automatically credited to the cardholder’s GetGo account, making it the easiest and most convenient way to earn points and fly for free to Cebu Pacific destinations. 
• All cardholders get to enjoy exclusive Cebu Pacific benefits, including early alerts to Cebu Pacific seat sales, exclusive promos on seats and GetGo points sales.

Cebu Pacific GetGo Visa Debit and Credit Cards by UnionBank #FlyForFreeFaster Launch

   
     I was amazed that one card can do it all. Before, I veered away from credit cards. Actually, this is only my second credit card to date. The first one is still sitting in my emergency fund box so that I will not be tempted to use it and only in case of emergency. 

     But after learning that Cebu Pacific GetGo Visa Credit and Platinum Credit Cards have different benefits in store for frequent travelers and shoppers, I was convinced that I need a credit card in my life. More than the emergency fund, having these cards will benefit me by earning points that I can actually use to #FlyForFreeFaster! Earning GetGo Points will take me to destinations that I've never been to before.

Cebu Pacific GetGo Visa Debit and Credit Cards by UnionBank #FlyForFreeFaster Launch
Cebu Pacific GetGo Visa Platinum

Cebu Pacific GetGo Visa Platinum perks and benefits:

• GetGo points at one of the best earn rates in the market. Every P30 spent using their card will earn them 1 GetGo point. These points are automatically credited to your GetGo account.
• Exclusive benefits such as priority check-in at select airport terminals.
• Additional 5kg baggage allowance.
• Complimentary airport lounge access to the Skyview Lounge at NAIA Terminal 3 and the MIASCOR Lounge at the Davao International Airport, plus free travel insurance.
• Cebu Pacific GetGo Visa Platinum cardholders’ benefits extend to Visa Platinum rewards and privileges. 
• These include Visa Concierge, 24-hour services which range from flight reservations to restaurant recommendations; Global Customer Assistance, in the event of card loss, an account can be blocked and a replacement card will be sent along with emergency cash; as well as a plethora of discounts, from hotel booking to car rental to dining. 
• All Visa cardholders also benefit from extensive global acceptance and access to ATM cash withdrawal.

Cebu Pacific GetGo Visa Debit and Credit Cards by UnionBank #FlyForFreeFaster Launch

   
     For cardholders, you are automatically enrolled in the GetGo program wherein you can enjoy earning additional points from their Cebu Pacific flights and other merchant partners. I'm already enrolled in the program and upon checking my account, I already have points from the shopping spree that we did during the event. These cards definitely enable customers to get points faster so they can go places sooner.

     I will highly recommend you to get one of these cards because if you love traveling, you'll be rewarded and #FlyFasterForFree! If you love shopping, earn GetGo points and reward yourself with a free plane ticket by converting your points. Having a credit card now especially these credit cards by UnionBank will make purchasing truly rewarding! 

Start earning GetGo points and #FlyForFreeFaster!

Visit getgo.unionbankph.com to apply for a Cebu Pacific GetGo Debit or Credit Cards by UnionBank. Apply HERE

Like them on Facebook:UnionBank Credit Cards

Good Times!~

Robinsons Selections' "Pick-Up and Pack-Up" Offerings

     One of the things that I truly miss is going on a travel. I'm not a travel junkie but when opportunity knocks and the gods are in my favor, I will plan the trip right away. Planning a trip is not easy. There are so many things to consider like the location, expenses, and the essential things to pack. These things consist of travel essentials that you will bring in your trip like food, water, containers, skin care, and other products that will make the travel a memorable one. I have great news, my default and go-to supermarket Robinsons Supermarket wants to share with you their list of travel essential goodies that I'm sure will make your travel fuss-free

     This quarter, Robinsons Selections’ theme “Pick-up and Pack-up” is dedicated to the born traveler who is always up for an adventure. Those who are hardwired to travel can be struck by the urge to pack and go at any given time. Robinsons Selections is the convenient modern store for all travel essentials to ensure a seamlessly fun trip. It has a wide selection of grab-and-go items and healthy food offerings that are perfect for packing.

Robinsons Selections' "Pick-Up and Pack-Up" Offerings

Here is a list of fundamental items that should go in the travel bag for a guaranteed awesome trip:

1. Portable and nutrition-packed food

     If one is to go camping, it is best to bring items that require less cooking and can be-eaten hot or cold. This brings into picture Arrowhead’s flaxseed and quinoa that are both rich sources of dietary fiber and protein

2. Fundamental liquids

     Water is basic necessity and potable drinking water might not always be available when travelling. Always carry bottles of drinking water like B’lue Water in Orange and Lychee for a little twist to your regular water. 

Robinsons Selections' "Pick-Up and Pack-Up" Offerings
B’lue Water in Orange and Lychee
Lock n' Lock Water Bottle

     Another option is to pack healthy drinks in carton boxes such as Tipco’s Broccoli and Pomegranate fresh juices. It doesn’t require refrigeration unless opened and it’s easy to dispose after.

Robinsons Selections' "Pick-Up and Pack-Up" Offerings
Tipco Brocolli Juice

3. Canned goods

     Canned goods have always been every traveler’s trusted companion. It is a meal in a can that’s easy to pack and doesn’t take up too much space. Palm corned beef is highly recommended and it comes in three delightful variants: garlic, onion and bbq.

Robinsons Selections' "Pick-Up and Pack-Up" Offerings
Palm Barbecue Corned Beef

4. Raw cheese slices

     Although cheese may not be considered exactly necessary, but adding dairy to your diet is actually healthy too. Transform simple packed sandwiches into something special by slipping in a hefty slice of cheese. Choose Kraft processed cheese for a creamy twist.

Robinsons Selections' "Pick-Up and Pack-Up" Offerings
Kraft Cheddar Cheese

5. Fruits

     Maintain access to important vitamins and minerals by packing produce that doesn’t easily bruise like Alfa’s Fuji apples and Australian Crimson grapes. But with all the stuffing of items in the bag the possibility of the produce turning into mush is nigh, which brings us to another important item.

6. Containers

     Season travelers know the value of hard-sided containers. Use Saw Glass Foodkeeper with locks and Boseal Round Glass Heat to protect packed produce and other things. It is wise to invest in leak-proof containers such as these, as they are convenient and efficient. For water bottle, Lock n' Lock is your best bet. It's BPA Free and easy to clean and use plus it comes in different colors too!

Robinsons Selections' "Pick-Up and Pack-Up" Offerings
Lock n' Lock Water Bottle

7. Sanitizers

     Hygiene standards vary among destinations. Nevertheless, it is recommended to frequently wash hands to prevent illnesses. For a quick clean on the go get Cleene alcohol or hand sanitizers such as that of Human Nature’s, which comes in Citrus and Floral scents.

Robinsons Selections' "Pick-Up and Pack-Up" Offerings
Cleene Cleansing Spray

8. Insect repellent

     Insect repellent is an absolute necessity especially when travelling to places where mosquitoes and other insects are known to transmit diseases. Take refuge in Human Nature’s insect repellant and lotion bug shield. This is my favorite insect repellent and I highly recommend this brand. Bought more than five bottles and I can truly attest to its effectiveness.

Robinsons Selections' "Pick-Up and Pack-Up" Offerings
Human Heart Nature Bug Shield

9. Skin regimen basics

     Staying pretty and pleasant throughout a trip should not be underrated. Maintain your daily skin regimen with the Olay Regenerist Serum and Total Effects available in travel-sizes. Keep your skin looking in top-shape with the Pond’s Flawless White BB cream and Vaseline lotion with SPF30.

Robinsons Selections' "Pick-Up and Pack-Up" Offerings
Olay Regenerist Serum, Pond's Flawless White BB Cream, Vaseline Healthy White Serum

10. Emergency snacks

     Being mobile opens up to the possibility of long travel periods with no allowance for stopovers, in this case emergency munchies at hand would be very helpful. For sweet fixes, chew on a flavorful bunch of Skittles. It is also wise to bring a box of gingerbread cookies like Anna’s Original Cappuccino and Ginger thins if looking for a bite with a crisp. This one is the new great alternative to your favorite ginger bread cookies, promise!

Robinsons Selections' "Pick-Up and Pack-Up" Offerings
Anna's Original Cappucino Thins

     Delicious Fitbars that come in Fruits, Nuts, and Chocolate are also packed with ancient grain nutrition, making it an ideal healthy and filling snack.

Robinsons Selections' "Pick-Up and Pack-Up" Offerings
Fitbars in Nuts Fiber and Fruit Fiber

     Lastly, make sure to pack all-time favorite snacks Lay’s Chips in Cheddar and Cheetos in Jalapeno and Cheddar, to enjoy with travel buddies. This is our all-time fave snacks! No doubt, both will always go inside our travel bags!

Robinsons Selections' "Pick-Up and Pack-Up" Offerings
Lay's Chips in Cheddae and Sour Cream
Cheetos Cheddar Jalapeno

     Yay! Seeing the list makes me more excited because packing will be more fun and easy. Robinsons Selections encourages everyone to live life to the fullest by providing options that help them lead healthier lives. Head on to Robinsons Selections and pack up on your travel necessities.

Good Times!~