Michi Photostory

A few months ago, we applied for Landers Membership and since then we’ve been going to Landers every month. So we shop, eat and my two boys will have their haircut. Sayang din kasi yung FREE haircut for member and PHP150 lang for non-member. Again, it is a big saving for us so doon pa lang, sulit na yung membership fee.

Read: Shopping at Landers Superstore Alabang

Last month, my husband and I went to Landers; we left past 6AM and travel time is supposed to be less than one hour but because of the traffic situation in SLEX, we arrived before 8AM. If there is no Carmageddon issue in SLEX, kahit 8AM na kami umalis sa bahay. Sad to say, we have to deal with this traffic until the last quarter of 2020.

Doppio 

We’re the first customers at the parking area so naghintay lang kami sa car because 9AM pa opening. While waiting, I saw some customers na nakakapasok na sa Landers so we got off and went to the store. We can go inside na pala because their coffee shop is already open. So we went to “Doppio” and I was surprised that they have But 1 Get 1 promo for all coffee, all ice cream and all pastry products.




We ordered Chocolate Chip Muffin PHP59 and Ice Mocha Latte PHP119, so we paid PHP178 only which is good for two persons. The muffin is big so we take out the other muffin for my son. Hehehe! This is one thing I like in Landers, kasi may promo sila sa coffee shop and food central nila.

Landers Central 

Aside from the coffee shop, they have food central too where you can eat pizza, pasta, chicken, hotdog, burger, fries, salad, and desserts. It is similar to S&R na self-service; you get your own drinks, condiments and clean as you go.


I noticed that every time we visit, they always have a promo. Last June, we took advantage of the “Birthday month promo” where we can buy one whole pizza for PHP400 and may hotdog promo din sila na nakalimutan ko na price. Hehehe!


So far we have tried their pizza, pasta, fries, hotdog, rice meals and others.

When my son was 3 years old, I started asking him what he wanted for his birthday. Since he is our only child, we try to fulfill his wishes as long as we can. We’re fortunate that my son doesn’t like a grand birthday party so it is a big saving for us. Last month, I asked him where are we going to celebrate his birthday and he said “sa bahay lang”.


At first, I did not believe him yet because baka magbago na naman ang isip niya so I was still planning for a birthday staycation so we can have a weekend getaway. Since my son is hitting 11 years old, it will also be the last year na free pa siya sa mga hotel staycation namin, next time hindi na. So I was just taking advantage of it habang breakfast pa lang ang bayad niya. Hehehe!

I was reminiscing how we celebrated his birthday for the last decade.

1st birthday - We invited immediate family and friends and we had a small party at Mcdonald’s Alabang Town Center. I think I only invited 50 persons and hindi pa nga nakapunta lahat kasi ang layo ng Alabang.

2nd birthday - We went to Cagayan de Oro and Camiguin. We went there before his actual birthday para FREE pa yung airfare niya. It was my son’s first airplane and boat ride experience.

Read: 2 Days in Camiguin 

3rd birthday - We went to Ark Avilon Zoo, Fun Ranch and Enchanted Kingdom.

Read: Ark Avilon Zoo and Fund Ranch
Enchanted Kingdom 

For his 4th, 5th, 6th and 7th birthday - we had theme parties. We celebrated his 4th and 5th birthday in school. At that time, pwede pa magcelebrate sa school but when we transferred him to a big a school, bawal ang birthday party sa school so we celebrated his 6th and 7th birthday at home.

Read: 4th birthday - Car’s Birthday Party
5th birthday - Mickey Mouse Party
6th birthday - Mario Birthday Party
7th birthday - Little Chef Party  

His 7th birthday is the start of his birthday staycation celebration. We celebrated it in The Manila Hotel, EDSA Shangri la, Makati Shangri la and Sofitel Club Millesime Manila. I was expecting nga na pati 11th birthday niya but I guess I have to accept the fact that my son is now a tween so there are few changes na.

Read: 7th birthday at The Manila Hotel
8th birthday at EDSA Shangri la Hotel
9th birthday at Makati Shangri la Hotel
10th birthday at Sofitel Club Millesime Manila 

Happy birthday to my favorite son who made me a parent 11 years ago. The first 11 years have been memorable and incredible and looking forward to more years with you. I miss my baby Ethan but I’m happy seeing what a wonderful person you are turning out to be.

Ang anak ko na hindi mahilig sa birthday party.
Ang anak ko na ayaw magtravel dahil ayaw umabsent sa school.
Ang anak ko na ayaw na ng birthday staycation.
I wish sana hanggang pagtanda para tipid. Hehehe!

We had a simple 11th birthday celebration. My son doesn’t want to be absent from school so we just bought a birthday cake. My husband bought my son’s birthday wish “Nintendo Switch”. I remember last year, plan namin siya bilhan ng Playstation pero buti na lang hindi natuloy kasi mas gusto pala niya ng Nintendo Switch. The only problem is, ang mahal pala ng Nintendo Games. As in, libo pala presyo nito.


We also ate at All 4 U Unlimited Grill & Shabu Shabu because my son wanted to eat there. I was suggesting other eat-all-you-can restaurants pero ito ang gusto niya. After our food trip, I asked him, bakit gusto niya sa All4U and he said “Ice Cream”. Waah! Ice cream lang pala, e pwede naman kami bumili sa grocery nun. Hehehe!

Read: All 4 U Unlimited Grill & Shabu Shabu 

Four years ago, we renewed our passports at the same time so we could take advantage of the family application. At that time, there was a separate lane for a single application and for family applications/senior citizens so we were able to renew our passports in 45 minutes at DFA-NCR South. But DFA already changed their policy and system so it feels like the first time again.

Last year, my husband renewed his passport earlier than us because he only has a few pages left and it took me a long time to schedule an appointment, you can read the story here. Then this year, it is time for us (me and my son) to renew our passports so last month, I tried the courtesy lane but unfortunately, the DFA staff did not allow my 10-year-old son to renew his passport (adult companion lang ang pwede +1 ng PWD), you can read the story here.

I was disappointed but I had no choice but to book an appointment for my son. So after I renewed my passport via the Courtesy Lane, I’ve been checking the available schedule on DFA website but the earliest Saturday schedule is September 21. My son doesn’t want to be absent from school so I need a Saturday schedule. Fortunately, when I checked DFA website at past 6PM, I saw a slot for Saturday, I grabbed it even though the only available time was 5-6PM.


Booking an appointment is so easy, there are just a few changes because this time I have to pay the Passport fee before I can confirm the Passport Appointment. I remember this was implemented last year; a few months after my husband renewed his passport. It is additional stress and expense because you cannot pay online, I have to go to Bayad Center just to pay the Passport fee + PHP50 convenience fee.

How to Book and Pay for Your DFA Passport Appointment Online 

1. Go to DFA site https://www.passport.gov.ph/appointment
2. Check the box “I have read and understood the instructions and information on this page… ”
3. Choose an Individual appointment or Group Appointment

“Please be reminded that any incorrect information that is inputted in this application form may result in delay in your application and that misrepresentation on your part may be considered grounds for refusal/cancellation of your application.”

4. Choose your preferred site

a. Angeles (Marquee Mall)
b. Bacolod
c. Baguio
d. Butuan
e. Cagayan de Oro
f. Calasiao
g. Cebu
h. Cotabato
i. DFA Manila (ASEANA)
j. DFA NCR East (Megamall)
k. DFA NCR North (Robinsons Novaliches)
l. DFA NCR North East (Ali Mall)
m. DFA NCR South (Alabang)
n. DFA NCR West (SM Manila)
o. Davao
p. Dumaguete
q. General Santos
r. Iloilo
s. La Union
t. Legazpi
u. Pampanga (Robinsons Starmills)
v. Puerto Princesa
w. Tacloban
x. Tuguegarao
y. Zamboanga

5. Choose your preferred date and time. Since I chose DFA NCR South, they have 8 schedules from 10AM to 6PM.  But the only available was 5-6PM.

6. Fill out the form and submit

- Personal Information
- Family Information
- Application Information
- Contact Information

7. Choose the processing type

Since I booked a Saturday schedule, I only have one choice and it is Express Processing for PHP 1200

Express Processing (P1200)
6 Working days for Aseana and Consular Offices within Metro Manila
7 Working Days for Consular Offices outside Metro Manila

8. Click Pay Now and there is a pop-up box

Payment Confirmation

Please be reminded of the following

* Processing fee must be settled within 24 hours upon receipt of the Reference Number. Your bank may not be available on weekends and holidays.
* Amount indicated is exclusively for the payment of the Passport Processing Fee
* Your chosen mode of payment may charge a convenience fee.
* The processing fee is not refundable. Applicants are advised to appear on their scheduled appointment.

9. Click I Agree, Proceed to payment

Then you will see the General Guidelines for your payment.

Pay in cash to Bayad Center Outlets (USSC, 7-11, ECPay, Robinsons, Pera Hub, True Money, Cebuana, etc.) or download Bayad Center Mobile App. A PHP50 Convenience Fee will be added.

10. I checked my email “DFA Passport Appointment System - Payment Reference” to get my reference number for the payment.

11. Pay for the fee.

The following day, my husband went to the nearest Bayad Center pero hindi pa daw sila tumatanggap ng ganoong payment and sinabihan siya sa LBC daw siya magbayad. So my husband paid at LBC, PHP1250

12. Check email

When my husband went home, I immediately check my email “DFA Passport Appointment System - Confirmation Notification”. I downloaded and printed the documents from the confirmation email.

YOU HAVE SUCCESSFULLY CONFIRMED YOUR PASSPORT APPOINTMENT BOOKING.

1. Print all the attached documents in A4-size paper. Click [here] to download your application form. (Your PC needs to have a suitable PDF reader installed such as Adobe Reader or Foxit Reader in order to view the downloaded file.)
2. Bring the printed application form, e-receipt, and checklist along with all the necessary support documents (and photocopies thereof) on the date of your appointment. The application form will be scanned at the passport site. Be aware that you may be refused entry if you fail to bring the system-generated application form.

Requirements Needed for Passport Renewal (Minor) 

1. Confirmed Online Appointment
2. Personal appearance
3. Printed application form
4. E-receipt from the confirmation email
5. Current passport and photocopy of the data page.
6. Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) Birth Certificate
7. Marriage Certificate is required if only one parent is accompanying the child

- If parents are unmarried, an Affidavit of Support and/or Consent executed by the Mother will be required if she is not accompanying the child.
- If Affidavit of Support and/or Consent is executed abroad, it must be authenticated by the Philippine Embassy or Consulate.

8. Passport or Valid Government issued ID of either parent with one (1) photocopy
9. School ID (if applicable)

Read: 3 Ways to Get PSA Documents
How to Renew your Passport via DFA Courtesy Lane

I have tried different ways on how to apply and renew my passport. I’ve tried the walk-in process at DFA-Pasay, travel agency and online appointment. A few years ago, I learned about the DFA Courtesy Lane so last month I took advantage of it. If you are a senior citizen, PWD, solo parent, pregnant, minor, and OFW, you don’t need an appointment. You can just go to the DFA office and apply or renew your passport.

NO APPOINTMENT IS NEEDED for the following applicants in the Philippines:

SENIOR CITIZEN and one (1) travel companion
PERSON WITH DISABILITY (PWDs) and one (1) travel companion
SOLO PARENT and his/her minor children
PREGNANT WOMEN
MINORS SEVEN (7) YEARS OLD AND BELOW and his/her parents and minor siblings OVERSEAS FILIPINO WORKERS (land-based, or seafarers)

Read: How to Apply for PWD ID in the Philippines

Photo from Freepik

So last month, my son and I went to DFA-NCR South (Metro Department Store) to renew our passports. We were there before 9AM, the Metro Supermarket opened at 9AM. There are lines for Courtesy Lane, 10AM and 11AM appointment. So we fell in line at the Courtesy Lane and the guard gave us a number. I’m not sure if there is a limit per day for the Courtesy Lane so just to make sure, we arrived before the opening time.


At 10AM, the guard advised us to go up to the DFA office. There are separate chairs for senior citizens and for a group of PWD, pregnant, solo parent, minor and others. While waiting, the DFA staff give out forms. To make my life easier, I already filled-out and printed our forms at home. You can download the forms here.

New Regular Passport Application Form 
Renewal Regular Passport Application Form
Regular Passport Application Form for Minor 

Those with scheduled appointments went inside already, then sinisingit per row ang nasa courtesy lane. The guard checked our bags and documents and informed us to go to INFORMATION.

Information Counter 

We proceeded to the Information Counter, the staff checked our documents. She asked for some information and then she advised me that my 10-yr old son is not allowed to renew. I was surprised because I know that I am allowed to bring one travel companion. But the staff insisted na adult companion lang daw ang pwede for PWD. Kung may kasama pa daw ako na 7yrs old below, pwede daw magrenew ang anak ko na 10 yrs old.

I was so disappointed because 

1. I am allowed to bring one travel companion pero adult companion lang daw. So asawa ko pwede pero hindi pwede anak ko. Immediate family member naman anak ko.
2. Pwede lang anak ko magrenew kung may kasama pa ako na anak na 7yrs old. (e only child lang ang anak ko)
3. So kung 7 years old ang minor, ano definition nila ng adult children? Kawawa naman ang 8 yrs old to 17 years old kung sasabihin nila sa akin na 18 years old ang adult children.
4. No use ang courtesy lane sa akin kasi babalik din ako para magparenew ng passport ng anak ko. Dobleng pagod pa.

I can’t blame the staff because she is just following the policy na hindi ko alam na ADULT COMPANION or CHILDREN lang. But now I know because I researched about it, pagkalabas na pagkalabas ng ko DFA office. So lesson learned, I will just book an appointment next time and read more information. Pero sana baguhin nila policy nila na pwede + 1 basta immediate family member. 

People with disabilities (PWDs) with proof of disability o PWD is allowed one (1) companion 

1. The companion of the PWD must be an immediate family member, i.e. spouse, siblings, adult children, adult grandchildren, parents-in-law, and children-in-law of the PWD and must show proof of relationship.
2. If the companion is not an immediate family member, the companion has to show proof of travel arrangements (e.g. confirmed plane or hotel booking) with the PWD to be able to avail of the courtesy lane facility.

For more information, read the details here. Based on my experience, hindi ko binasa yung buong article, nung nakita na PWD + 1 travel companion, naniwala na agad ako without checking the conditions.  Anyway, since nandun na rin ako, tinuloy ko na rin kaysa sayang punta namin. So sinamahan ako ng anak ko para sa pagpaparenew ng passport and sasamahan ko siya next time.

After the Information Counter, the staff informed me to go to Step 1.

Step 1 - Processing 

Requirements for Passport Renewal (Adult) 

1. Confirmed Online Appointment
2. Accomplished Application Form
3. Personal Appearance
4. Current ePassport with a photocopy of the data page
5. Original PSA authenticated documents that will support the change of name.
- Marriage Contract
- Annotated Birth Certificate
- Annotated Marriage Contract to show annulment/divorce/court-ordered instruction
- Death Certificate of Spouse

Read: 3 Ways to Get PSA Documents

NOTE: If a woman opts to retain the maiden name, a Marriage Contract is not required.
*Additional requirements may be required.

I submitted the following 

Accomplished Application Form 
Photocopy of Current ePassport Bio Page 
Photocopy of Valid ID 

Step 2 - Payment 

It was Saturday so all applications are Express Processing; I paid P1200

Step 3 - Photo

There is a separate line for the courtesy lane so I’m done at 11:08AM. I chose pick-up so I have no idea about the delivery fee. I applied September 7, 2019 and I can claim my passport on September 19, 2019. It is supposed to be 7 Days Processing lang since Express ang binayad ko but I guess hindi naman nasusunod so it is better to apply early if you really need the passport.

Read: How to Book and Pay for your DFA Passport Appointment Online

September 27, 2019 

I did not claim my passport on the scheduled date para isang pagod na lang. Hinintay ko yung release date ng anak ko which is September 26, 2019. And para sure, the following day ko na kinuha.

1. I gave our receipts and wait for my name to be called.
2. The staff gave us our passports and I checked all the data on our new passport.
3. I went back to the counter and the staff canceled our old passports.
4. I filled out a form (Passport No., Name, Contact No, and Signature)

I claimed our passports in 5 minutes.


Important Reminders on the Releasing of Passport

1. Check the estimated passport release date on the receipt.
2. Bring the receipt and the old passport for cancellation on the release date.
3. Check all the data on the received e-passport upon release.
4. Affix signature on the space provided on the newly claimed passport to avoid problems at the entry/exit points when traveling abroad.
5. Only immediate family members are allowed to get the passport on behalf of the applicant. Immediate family members include father, mother, brother, sister, spouse, and children of legal age.
6. Passport shall be released to an immediate family member only with a proper authorization letter, and valid IDS (with photocopies) of the applicant and the representative with Special Power of Attorney and Affidavit of Support and Consent.
7. The passport of the minor applicant shall be released only to parents (PSA Marriage Certificate is required if the father will claim the minor’s passport) or to an authorized representative with Special Power of Attorney or Affidavit of Support and Consent and photocopy of IDs of the passport holder and the authorized agent.
8. Passports unclaimed after six months will be canceled per Department Order No. 37-03

I have a long bucket list on my mind and I don’t know when I will be able to finish my list. I hope I have more time to do all of it so I’m praying for long life and of course budget to fulfill my dreams. Last month, I was so happy that I ticked off “Teppanyaki Experience” on my bucket list. It’s been on my list for seven years already, finally, the long wait is over.


I’ve been meaning to eat at Teppanyaki restaurant ever since my husband tried it in Shanghai, China. Whenever he is in Shanghai, he makes sure that he will eat at Shanghai Akasantei. It is a Teppanyaki and Yakiniku restaurant which is just 10 minutes away from his hotel. Then 5 years ago, he discovered Edogin; a teppanyaki restaurant in Jakarta, Indonesia. And as expected, he also eats at Edogin whenever he stays at Hotel Mulia Senayan.

Read: Shanghai Akasantei  
Jakarta Eats at Hotel Mulia Senayan  
Hotel Mulia Senayan 

If you remember my birthday post, I wanted to celebrate my birthday in Jakarta Indonesia because we have 4 days FREE and my husband will go to Indonesia too. It is my chance to stay in Hotel Mulia Senayan or eat at Edogin. But unfortunately, the stars were not aligned so my husband went to Indonesia without us because my son doesn’t want to be absent for two days.

So on the day of my birthday, I did not expect any celebration because it was a weekday and my son doesn’t want to be absent. But my husband persuaded me to celebrate at Yurakuen Japanese Restaurant at Diamond Hotel. I was hesitant at first because my son was in school and our initial plan was we will eat at Yurakuen after our Sheraton Manila Staycation. Then I realized na sobrang hina kumain and mabilis mabusog anak ko, my husband is right malulugi kami sa bayad. Hehehe! So I said yes and my husband called Diamond Hotel to reserve.

Eat All You Can at Yurakuen Japanese Restaurant 

Few years ago, I’ve researched about the Best Teppanyaki Restaurants in the Philippines and Yurakuen Japanese Restaurant is on top of the list but when I checked the rate, nakakahimatay ang presyo so I know that we can only eat here if we have something to celebrate. I can’t remember how many times na namin plinano na kumain dito but for some reasons hindi natututuloy so I’m happy na natuloy na rin ang aming food trip.


Since we live in the province, we left the house before 9AM just to make sure that we won’t be late for our reservation. We arrived at 10:40AM and the opening time is 11AM so we waited at the cafe near the Japanese restaurant. At 11AM, the staff let us in and she ushered us to the beautiful garden of the restaurant. May cherry blossoms inside, feel na feel na nasa Japan.


At Yurakuen, you have two options, you can choose a la carte meals or eat all you can. Of course, we chose the Eat-All-You-Can Teppanyaki so she ushered us to the Teppanyaki Room. They have limited rooms so don’t forget to make a reservation.


For P3,300 per person, you can eat Sashimi, Sushi, Makisushi, Temaki Sushi, Salad, Soup, Seafood, Meat, Vegetable, Rice, Noodles, and Dessert all you want. The drinks are bottomless too but you can only choose one type of beverage. I chose mango juice and my husband chose orange juice. Here is the menu.


We all know that you cannot eat everything on the menu so carefully study it and choose the food that will make you happy and satisfied. The staff will ask for your choices and they will serve it for you. I’m not fond of sushi, sashimi or salad so I did not order anything but my husband order a few pieces of it. I can’t remember what he ordered but I ordered Egg Soup. The staff will serve the Japanese starters, salad, soup, drinks, and sauces.



After thirty minutes, our personal sous chef came and we started our teppanyaki experience. What nice about Yurakuen, you have your own sous chef that will cook your food. Unlike sa Shanghai Akasantei and Edogin na open for everybody yung Teppanyaki Table. Here, you have your own privacy, one sous chef per teppanyaki table.

Two years ago, I planned to visit Sweden for our side trip during our vacation in Norway but it did not happen. Our plan was changed when we reached Norway but I have no regrets because we enjoyed our 4 Days Trip in Iceland. Then last summer, my plan finally materialized and we were able to visit Stockholm, Sweden.

Read: 4 Days in Iceland with Kid


We traveled via SJ train from Copenhagen Denmark to Stockholm, Sweden, travel time is over five hours and we reached Stockholm Central Station on time. I did not have an itinerary for our Stockholm Trip so I started researching while we’re on the train. Thanks to FREE wifi.

Read: Traveling from Copenhagen Denmark to Stockholm Sweden via SJ Train 
Traveling in Scandinavia via SJ Train


When I researched for our hostel, I know that it is just close to the central train station. So in my mind, it is like our hostel in Copenhagen but I was wrong. I was surprised when I learned that we need to walk more or less 1km. We have 4 luggage + hand-carry and we have a kid in tow so my mom decided that we will just take a taxi. Good thing that there’s big taxi that can accommodate us + our stuff.


Our hostel is less than 1 kilometer away and our taxi fare is already 116 SEK or PHP625.45. Wow, that’s how expensive taxi in Europe. Anyway, Generator Hostel Stockholm will be our home for 4 nights in Sweden. I will share my hostel review in a separate post.


It was past 6PM but the line at the reception was long so checking-in was slow. We just rested for several minutes and then we went out for dinner. There is 7-11 in front of the hostel but we still checked other options and we ended up with Maestro Kebab. After eating, we went back to the hotel so we can recharge for our Stockholm Adventure.

Read: Pasalubong from Sweden

I’ve experienced traveling by plane, boat, and bus to go to another country but I haven’t tried riding a train so I was a little bit excited when we are going to Stockholm. Finally, I can experience a cross-country trip to Europe via train.


Few months before our trip, I researched “How to go to Stockholm Sweden from Copenhagen Denmark”. There are a lot of ways to reach Stockholm, you can travel by air, car, bus, and train. Of course, I chose the train because it is cost-efficient. Yes, riding the train is cheaper than riding the plane. Just make sure that you will book early and if you have kids in tow, avail the children’s discount.

Since we are going to Sweden, I chose the SJ train, it is a government-owned passenger train operator that was created in the year 2000. From Copenhagen to Stockholm, there are five schedules and I chose 12:23NN. The train fare may vary depending on the date, time and type of ticket that you will choose.

When we got our Schengen visa, I immediately checked the price of the train ticket. Then I informed my mom about it but few days after, my grandmother passed away so our planning stopped. After a month, we started planning again for our Scandinavian Trip and when I checked the train fare, the price already increased. From SEK 1007 to SEK 1467.

Read: How to Apply for Schengen Visa for your Europe Trip

As I mentioned before, there are different types of ticket. You can choose first class or second class and you can choose non-rebookable, rebookable and refundable. You can check my previous post for more information. So for 3 adults and 1 kid, (Second Class Ticket) our total is

SEK 1467 - Non-rebookable
SEK 1776 - Rebookable
SEK 2222 - Refundable

Read: Traveling in Scandinavia via SJ Train

I told my mom to book the non-rebookable so we can save money but my mom insisted to book the refundable so just in case something happens we can refund the fare. Waah! That’s PHP4000 difference so mabigat sa bulsa pero what can I do, sunod na lang. Good thing there is a children’s discount and we can choose our own seats without additional cost. 

Adult SEK 705
Child SEK 107

Fast forward to our trip; after we check-out at Urban House Copenhagen by Meininger, off we went to Copenhagen Central Station which is just few minutes walk from the hostel. Our ticket does not indicate the track so we immediately checked the information board so we know where to go. For Copenhagen to Stockholm, we need to go to Track 4 and wait at B section (carriage 6-7).

Read: Urban House Copenhagen by Meininger Review


We had a quick lunch at Food Market before going to Track 4. We arrived 30 minutes before our schedule but the train was still closed. If I remember it right, they only allowed us to board 10 minutes before the departure and the train left on time.

Read: Food Trip in Copenhagen Denmark 


We only bought a Second Class ticket so this is our seat, SJ train offers wide and comfortable seats. We have free wifi to entertain us during our 5 hours and 13 minutes travel. In addition, if you feel hungry or thirsty, you can buy at the Bistro. To save money, we brought some snacks.



Watch the video here

Europe is an expensive tourist destination but it is still a dream place for most of us because you can visit several countries in one trip. Yes, as long as you have a valid Schengen visa, you can travel to 26 countries in Europe. Going from one country to another country is not difficult because you are not limited to the airplane. You can travel by boat, bus, and train.

Read: How to Apply for Schengen Visa for your Europe Trip


During our Scandinavian Trip last summer, we travel to Denmark, Sweden, and Norway via boat and train. From Oslo Norway to Copenhagen Denmark, we traveled by boat via DFDS Crown Seaways. Then from Copenhagen Denmark to Stockholm Sweden and Stockholm Sweden to Oslo Norway, we rode SJ train.

Read: Cruise from Oslo to Copenhagen via DFDS Crown Seaways 

How to Book or Buy SJ Train Tickets 

Buying SJ train ticket is so easy, all you have to do is go to SJ website which is sj.se and book your ticket.

1. Choose your destination
2. Choose the date and time
3. Choose the ticket class; first class or second class
4. Choose the type of ticket; non-rebookable, rebookable or refundable
5. Pay your ticket
6. Check your email and print your e-ticket.

Ticket Class 

First Class 

Wide and comfortable seats
Free breakfast is served at your seat on departures before 09:00 AM.
Pre-order food served to your seat
Free coffee, tea, water, and fruit
Free wifi
Free access to SJ Lounge

Second Class 

Travel comfortably
Free seat booking
Free wi-fi on high-speed trains

Type of SJ Train Tickets 

Refundable 

They will refund the ticket price excluding the booking fee. The ticket must be canceled before the departure time. Other rules may apply for travel with other operators. Contact the respective operators for more information.

Rebook journeys with SJ
Refund if you cancel your journey
Free change of departure time

Rebookable 

With this ticket, you can rebook your journey to another place or another date until the departure of the train. You can also cancel your trip and save your credit value up to 180 days. The credit value is the ticket price - excluding the booking fee - which you can use for one or more trips, however, only with another SJ train.

Rebook journeys with SJ
When you cancel your ticket you receive a credit value

Non-rebookable  

Tickets in this flexibility category cannot be rebooked. The price you paid for your ticket will not be refunded and the ticket cannot be transferred to another person. If, on the other hand, you are unable to travel due to sickness, you will receive a refund on presentation of a medical certificate.

Travel Tips: 

1. It is best to book a ticket as soon as possible because you can get a cheaper rate. I witnessed that when I mock book our train ticket 2 months before compared to one month before of our trip.

2. SJ train offer Children Discount. “When you see the heart icon you know that you are getting a great deal.”

Understanding SJ Train Ticket 



When I downloaded and printed the SJ train ticket, the ticket has no English Translation so it is important that you understand your eticket so you know your train station, train number, seat number, and of course the departure time.

Resenär - name of traveller 
Billjettnummer - ticket number 
Avgång - departure time of the train 
Ankomst - arrival time of the train 
Tåg - train number 
Vagn - carriage 

Copenhagen, Denmark (Köbenhavn H) to Stockholm, Sweden (Stockholm Central) via SJ Train 

We rode the SJ train from Copenhagen Central Station to Stockholm Central Station. Travel time is 5 hours and 13 minutes. At the time of our booking, there are five schedules that we can choose from, the earliest is 08:23 and the latest is 16:23. We chose the 12:23NN train schedule.

Read: Traveling from Copenhagen Denmark to Stockholm Sweden via SJ Train 

Stockholm, Sweden (Stockholm Central) to Oslo Norway (Oslo Station) via SJ Train 

We rode SJ Train from Stockholm Central Station to Oslo Station. Travel time is 5 hours and 59 minutes. At the time of our booking, there are only two train schedules; 09:10 and 13:08. We had no choice but to take the morning schedule.

It was our first-time experience traveling to another country via train and so far we had a smooth experience so if ever we will go back to Scandinavia, we will travel via SJ train again.

Read: Traveling Around Norway via NSB Train

How I wish, I could extend our vacation in Copenhagen, Denmark because four days are not enough. Sad to say, we could no longer extend our stay because everything was pre-booked already including our train ticket and hotel. And because Day 4 is our last day in Denmark, my companions don’t want to go out anymore.

They prefer to stay in the hotel until our check-out which is 11AM but I don’t want to waste my time waiting at the hotel so I insisted that we should go out. I convinced them that we had enough time to visit Christianborg Palace before our train ride at 12:23NN. Thank God, pinagbigyan na nila ko.

So we had an early breakfast and we stored our luggage in the locker room so just in case, we could not make it before 11AM for check-out, we wouldn’t pay any extra because our room was already empty.

Again, we just walked from the Urban House by Meininger to Christianborg Palace. We arrived before 9AM so we were freezing cold while waiting outside of the palace door. If you have limited time in Copenhagen, I suggest you go to Christianborg Palace because you can visit several tourist spots in one location. You can visit The Royal Reception Rooms, The Royal Stables, The Royal Kitchen, The Ruins under Christianborg and Christianborg Palace Chapel.

Read: Where to Stay in Copenhagen: Urban House by Meininger   

To save money, don’t forget to buy a Copenhagen Card. We’re thankful that we were able to maximize and save a lot of money using this card. I’ll share the pros and cons of the Copenhagen Card in a separate post. And because of limited time, we only visited three tourist spots.

Buy Copenhagen Card 

Christianborg Admission Price 

The Ruins: 60.00 DKK
The Royal Reception Rooms: 95.00 DKK
The Royal Stables: 60.00 DKK
The Royal Kitchen: 60.00 DKK
Child: Free
Combined ticket: 160.00 DKK

Christianborg Palace 

Christianborg Palace is not only a palace but a government building too which is located on the tiny island of Slotsholmen in Central Copenhagen, Denmark. It is where you can find the remains of the country’s principal castle of the Middle Ages and the home of three government branches; the Danish Parliament, Danish Prime Minister’s Office and Supreme Court of Denmark. It is the only building in the world that contains the 3 supreme powers of government; executive power, legislative power, and the judicial power.

Christianborg Palace is owned by the Danish government, some parts of the palace are still being used by the Danish Royal Family for their events and functions like the Royal Receptions Rooms, The Tower Room, The Oval Throne Room, The Palace Chapel, and the Royal Stables. Some parts are open to the public.

Christianborg - The Royal Reception Rooms 

At exactly 9AM, they opened the Royal Reception Rooms. There is a free guided tour that you can join, don't forget to check the schedule. But during our visit, no English Tour Guide at 9AM so we just explored the palace on our own. I just showed our Copenhagen Card and the staff advised us to wear shoe covers before exploring the place. We’re the first guests so we had the palace to ourselves, no photobomber.




We’ve been to Rosenborg Castle, Amalienborg Palace but Christianborg Palace is my favorite. The place is well-preserved, well-decorated and looks elegant. Every corner of the palace is very stunning. I was glad that we were able to visit Christianborg Palace before going to Stockholm.



We took our time exploring Throne Room, The Great Hall, The Dining Hall, and the Library. As I mentioned before, some parts of the palace are still being used by the Queen like the majestic hall and other rooms for their state dinners, banquets, and other royal ceremonies. So it is a great feeling that ordinary people like me can enter this palace. Don’t forget to check out the unique tapestries at the Great Hall which illustrates the History of Denmark and the world over the past 1000 years.


While waiting for 10AM, we bought some souvenirs at The Palace Shop and off we went to the Ruins for our next tour.

The Ruins under Christianborg

Under the new Christianborg Palace is the ruins of two principal castles that were built in the same location. The Absalon’s Castle that was built in the 11th century, you can still see the remaining wall. And that same wall protected the castle from Wend pirates. The second ruin is Copenhagen Castle that was built in 1369 but it was torn down and they built a new one. Another ruin is the foundation of the Blue Tower where King Christian’s favorite daughter, Leonora Christine, political prisoners, soldiers, and other criminals were held captive.




The Christianborg Ruins highlights the more than 800-year-old underground history of the palace as a medieval castle, royal residence, political and cultural center. We did not stay that long in this place because it is dark and the smell is not nice so it is kinda creepy to explore.

Christianborg - The Royal Kitchen

Beneath the Christianborg Palace is the Royal Kitchen which was built and completed in 1928. This kitchen was used for preparing food for royal parties and celebrations in the Great Hall. The Royal Kitchen is equipped and furnished and they have one of the largest collections of copperware in Europe. See, smell and feel what happened during the King Christian’s Silver Jubilee gala dinner last May 15, 1937. See the menu below.

1. Soup Ambassadeur
2. Filet of Sole a la Nantua
3. Tenderloin Bouquetiere
4. Chicken Parisienne
5. Ice Cream Royale
6. Dessert



Our Day 4 in Copenhagen, Denmark was short but it is one of the highlights of our trip and I’m glad that I really pushed this itinerary. After our Royal Kitchen Tour, we immediately went back to our hotel to pick up our luggage, check-out and off to Copenhagen Central Train Station. We had a quick lunch at Food Market before riding the SJ train to Stockholm Sweden.

Read: Food Trip in Copenhagen Denmark
Day 1 in Copenhagen 
Day 2 in Copenhagen 
Day 3 in Copenhagen