June 05, 2016

Staycation in Cebu

Summer is not yet over, we still have one week before classes resume. I wish I can extend the summer because honestly, I’m not yet ready for the school year 2016-2017. I bought books last month but until now, it is not yet covered. I still have no name stickers for the books, notebooks, and other supplies. For sure, magcram ako niya before June 13. Hehehe! Anyway, yun na lang naman kulang.

Before summer vacation ends, I want to share the hotels and resorts that we have tried in Cebu. So if you are planning to go to Cebu or you live in Cebu and looking for a quick getaway, you can choose from the following.

Where to Stay in Cebu

1. Fuente Oro Business Suites  

If you are looking for a budget hotel then reserve a room in Fuente Oro Business Suites. We’ve stayed here in 2011, the room was very basic but it is ok for us.  If you are a budget traveler and looking for cheap accommodation, this hotel is for you. The price is budget friendly and it includes free breakfast for two people already. What I like about this hotel is the location, it is very accessible and we can ride a jeep just outside the hotel.

2. Cebu City Marriott Hotel now Seda Hotel

Cebu This is a luxury hotel in Cebu city that is just beside Ayala Center Cebu. You can save money because you can just walk to the mall if you want to eat or buy snacks and drinks at the supermarket. During our stay, my son enjoyed his time in their pool.  The room is big that fits two double beds and the bathroom has a bathtub too. Complimentary water and toiletries are replenished every day.

Read: Cebu City Marriott Hotel

3. Cebu Parklane International Hotel  

This hotel is also near Ayala Center Cebu but it would be a long walk. The hotel has different restaurants but if you want to save money, don't worry because there are restaurants near the hotel.  The price of the hotel is very reasonable and it offers a free buffet breakfast at Manuel’s restaurant. It has a pool too that we haven’t tried. The room is not that big but the bathroom has a bathtub.

Read: Cebu Parklane International Hotel 

4. Crimson Mactan Resort and Spa  

If you don’t want to go to Bantayan Island or Sumilon Island but you wanted to experience the beach and pool then go to Mactan. There are so many luxury hotels and resorts there including Crimson Mactan Resort and Spa.  We had a great time in this resort especially in their CrimZone because my son enjoyed the different activities like figurine painting, bracelet making, face painting, and Amazing Kid’s Race.

Read: Crimson Mactan Resort and Spa
Restaurant in Crimson Mactan Resort and Spa

 5. Shangri-la Mactan Resort and Spa 

This is another luxury resort in Mactan that we have visited but only for a day trip. They have a pool, beach, play area, sauna, and gym. Overall, we were satisfied with the service, facilities, and amenities, If we have an extra budget I will consider this for an overnight stay.

 Read: Shangri-la Mactan Resort and Spa

6. Seda Ayala Center Cebu 

Seda Ayala Center Cebu is one of the newest hotels in Cebu. Well, it is not really new because they just renovated the old Cebu City Marriott Hotel. And because of the renovation, there are a few changes in the facade, room, and bathroom design. The location is still good because it is near shopping mall and very accessible for commuters.

 Read: Seda Ayala Center Cebu 

7. Sheraton Mactan Resort

Sheraton Mactan is the first Marriott International Resort in the Philippines. This is the third resort that we tried in Mactan Cebu. The resort is not that big but it offers a beach, pool, spa, fitness center, spa, play area, restaurant, cafe, and bar. 

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June 03, 2016

Japan: Keio Plaza Hotel Tama

In planning for a trip, location is very important because your itinerary will depend on it. So when my husband sent me his hotel confirmation, I felt sad because the hotel is so far from the tourist spots that I wanted to visit.

 The initial plan is to move to another hotel after his training so commuting would not be a problem but I had a hard time looking for an accommodation in Japan that would fit my budget (same rate with Keio Plaza Hotel Tama). In addition, some websites do not have an English language so it is hard to reserve.

 I have a 7 years old son and in Japan, he is considered as an adult so it is not easy to book a hotel for three persons. Most of the time it is fully booked or the hotel rate is so expensive. So I gave up looking for a budget accommodation and decided to stay in Tama Center area since they gave us a good rate even for extra person rate. At least I did not have a hard time reserving a hotel, someone did that for us. 

 “A child aged 6 and older is considered an adult, that she/he cannot share the bed with an adult.”

Keio Plaza Hotel Tama is far from the common tourist spots in Tokyo, Japan but it is not a reason to be sad because there are still interesting places that we can visit and to be honest, I did not have any regrets in staying in Tama Center because my son and I did not have a hard time in traveling.

 I felt so proud of myself because for the very first time, namamasyal kami mag-ina na kami dalawa lang. Hindi ko nagagawa yan sa Pinas dahil takot ako na kaming dalawa lang sa dami ng modus. 

 Back to topic, you can reach the hotel by riding an airport limousine bus. Buy your ticket at the airport ticket counter and the bus will drop you in front of the hotel. Travel time from Narita Airport is almost two hours and 1-minute walk from bus station to Keio Plaza Hotel Tama. 

 Read: Trip to Tokyo Japan

 Sharing with you, our accommodation for 6 nights. If you are Hello Kitty fan you can book their Hello Kitty Theme room. 

The room has two beds, office table, vanity table, cabinet, TV, refrigerator and trouser press. 

You have tea and espresso coffee maker. 

The bathroom has bathtub, thermostat controlled shower fixture and unique toilet. I’ve been meaning to try this kind of toilet, nakakarelax umupo. You have a warm seat + different buttons for bidet. Spoiled na spoiled ang aking b***. Namimiss ko ito kasi wala nito sa bahay. Hehehe! 



The bathroom toiletries are shampoo, conditioner, bath & shower gel, face soap, toothbrush, razor, shower cap, comb and hairdryer. I love their Shiseido Face Soap kung pwede lang iuuwi. 

The room has air purifier too, winner. 

Inside the cabinet, you can find hangers, ironing spray, security safe, slippers and shoe mitt. Two bathrobes (yukata) were provided. 

To save money, we only book room only and we ate breakfast at Starbucks, McDonalds or breakfast meals from convenience stores which are just walking distance from the hotel. The hotel has 4 restaurants and 1 pastry shop so you really have no problem with food. 

What I like about this hotel is the strategic location, it is 1-minute walk from bus station, 3 minutes walk from Keio Line & Odakyu Line, Keio Tama Center Station and Tama Monorail and 5 minutes walk to Sanrio Puroland. 

There are nearby malls, supermarkets, fastfoods, restaurants and park. Though it is far from central Tokyo, commuting is not that difficult. 

The service is also good because they make-up the room and replenish the toiletries every day. We have clean room every single day. They even reserved our Airport Limousine Bus Ticket back to Narita International Airport. 

 There is free wifi in the room but it was not as fast as I expected and we have to relog-in every day. 

Free Tokyo Handy Guide and Map. 

 For the very first time, I did not see any complimentary water because according to their staff, the water is potable. I haven’t tried it because I bought bottled water in the convenience store but my husband used the water for his coffee and tea and wala naman nangyari. Hehehe! 

 Overall, we had a great stay in Keio Plaza Hotel Tama. I hope they also offer free shuttle bus to Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea

 Keio Plaza Hotel Tama 
Tel:+81 42 374 0111
Fax:+81 42 374 1552 
1-43, Ochiai, Tama City, Tokyo
206-0033 Japan
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Where to Eat in Cebu

If you are going to travel, aside from looking for an accommodation and planning for your itinerary; you need to take note also the restaurants that you need to try. Of course, it is very important to me that we have something to eat during our travel. 

When we went to Cebu last April, I take note of the restaurants that I want to or I should try. I was happy because I was able to try new restaurants during our last visit. Five years ago, we had very limited time so we only ate at Casa Verde, CnT Lechon and Tides at Shangri-la Mactan Resort and Spa.

 Read: Food Trip in Cebu

 If you are planning to visit Cebu, here are some restaurants that we have tried that you can include in your list of “Where to Eat in Cebu”. 

1. Sugbahan - this is the first restaurant that we have tried which is located at the Food Court of Ayala Center Mall Cebu. My husband ordered BBQ, liempo and tinolang halaan. My son likes their BBQ so on our next visit, he ate BBQ while I ate lechon at CnT. 

2. CnT Lechon - I was happy because Cebu City Marriott Hotel is just so near Ayala Center Cebu so I can eat lechon anytime I want. I always love CnT lechon, and this lechon is affordable too compared to other lechon that I’ve tried.

 Read: Cebu’s Lechon
          CnT Lechon

3. Hukad by Golden Cowrie - my husband always eats at Golden Cowrie in Lahug so it was our first time in Hukad by Golden Cowrie, still located at Ayala Center Cebu. The restaurant offers Filipino foods + unlimited rice, most of the diners here are families and barkada. 

 Read: Hukad by Golden Cowrie


4. Cebu’s Best Rico’s Lechon- I always read and hear good reviews about their lechon so I really make sure that I will not leave Cebu without eating here. We ate at F. Cabahug branch and my experience wasn’t good. My son and I were not happy with their lechon.

 Read: Cebu’s Best Ricos’ Lechon


 5. The Original AA BBQ - my husband always eats here every time he visits Cebu. We ate at their Lahug branch. You can choose the meat and seafood that you like and they will cook or grill it for you. 

 Read: The Original AA BBQ

6. Sinangag Express - when we transferred to Cebu Parklane International Hotel, our initial plan is to eat at Kuya J Restaurant which is already available in Luzon. But because I’m lazy to go out, my husband bought dinner at Sinangag Express which is walking distance from the hotel. 

 7. Buffet Breakfast at Manuel’s Restaurant - our stay in Cebu Parklane International Hotel has a free buffet breakfast at Manuel’s Restaurant and we were happy with their buffet spread. You can eat lunch and dinner here too. 

 8. Azure Beach Club - this restaurant is located inside Crimson Resort and Spa Mactan near the beachfront. The restaurant offers Asian Cuisine, they have pasta, noodles, pizza and many more. 


9. Saffron Cafe - since we prefer Filipino foods, we always eat at Saffron Cafe. We ate our dinner, breakfast and lunch at Saffron Cafe. 


Read: Restaurant in Crimson Resort and Spa Mactan 

 10. Zubuchon - if you forgot to buy pasalubong, don’t worry because there is Zubuchon inside the Mactan International Airport, my husband ate dinner and bought lechon here before our flight. My son and I ate meals at Mabuhay Lounge. 

11. La Marea Pastry Shop - if you are fond of sweets, I suggest you try the warm brownie cup and sylvannas of this pastry shop. We bought our dessert at Ayala Center Cebu near the Food Court. 

 Read: La Marea Pastry Shop

 I haven't tried the other restaurants that are on my list so I still have reason to go back to Cebu but feel free to share your suggestions for a food trip in Cebu.
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June 01, 2016

How To Save Money During A Divorce

Going through a divorce is a very stressful time, not the least of which is the result of the financial strain it will put on you. Divorces can end up being very expensive and will have a large impact on the way you run your finances going forward. While there is not much you can do to reduce the cost of a divorce entirely, there are some things that can be done that will hopefully lower the amount a little bit. Here are a few suggestions to get you started so that you can try to make your divorce more affordable. 

Do Your Own Legwork 

 The first thing you are going to have to realize is that you will need to do a lot of the work on your own. A lot goes into getting a divorce, and this typically relies on other people for help. However this costs money, so you should look for ways to do things on your own. For starters, you can be your private investigator and do some searching for information yourself if need be. You can also fill out the legal paperwork that is required for a divorce, and submit them all yourself. Doing all of this is going to be more work for you, but will save you money.

 Represent Yourself In Court 

 The other thing you can do during a divorce to reduce costs is forgo getting a lawyer. If you are willing to do the work yourself, representing yourself is a great way to take charge of your divorce and save money at the same time. However, there is a lot of paperwork involved with a divorce, so finding some assistance may be of benefit to you.

 One way to represent yourself but still get legal help is through a Legal Document Assistant. An LDA does not offer legal advice, or represent you in court, but can help you prepare your legal documents. Groups like National Family Solutions provide attorneys, family psychologists, and private investigators to help with family law issues, such as divorce, and will help to make sure all of your paperwork is done correctly. If you feel like you need to strengthen your case, a Parent Evaluation is a great addition to the paperwork you file with the courts. 

 Reduce Stress 

 A divorce comes with many financial hardships, but it can also take a toll on your emotional state. Stress is common during a divorce, and you will need to find a way to cope with it. When we are stressed out it can lead to making bad or hurried decisions, which can cost you money in the long run. Find ways to manage your stress during this time by doing things like exercising, meditation, or seeing a therapist.

 Reduce Regular Expenses 

 Lastly, you will need to modify your budget once you are going through a divorce. You may be going from two incomes down to one, and you may also have some new bills that you need to pay on your own, such as rent, car payments, or child support. This means you will not be able to spend money like you used to, and changes will need to be made. Take a look at your monthly budget, and look for areas that you can cut back. Try to factor in your legal fees so that you are better able to afford them. Remember that as time goes on this will get easier, and eventually you may be able to return to your normal lifestyle. 

 Consider All Options 

 The key to saving money during a divorce is to know what all of your options are. For everything you need to spend money on, look for an alternative that may be cheaper. The more options that you can find, the more money you will be able to save. Going through a divorce is difficult, but if you can find some more affordable options, you can at least make it a little easier on your wallet.
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Tatler Tods: Stylish Shirt for Boys

I don’t normally buy clothes online because I want to try the clothes or shoes first just to make sure that it fits me. I love online shops that provide size details because it gives me an idea what size suits my body figure. My size ranges from XS to M so it is really hard to choose if there is no size chart.

It is the same thing with my son so I appreciate the size chart of Tatler Tods. It is an online shop where you can buy premium longsleeves for kids 1 to 5 years old. My son is already 7 years old but the large size still fits him. :) 

 I was out on vacation last week so I’m thankful for my neighbor who received my package for me. She gave this last Monday. 

I like the packaging of Tatler Tods, usually, the clothes were just put in a plastic but here, the shirt was folded in a box to avoid wrinkles. 

The fabric of the shirt is smooth and soft so it ensures comfort for your kids. You can use this for casual or formal wear. If you want to order this Barcelona Shirt, visit Tatler Tods Facebook page for more details. https://www.facebook.com/tatlertods/?fref=ts
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May 31, 2016

Trip to Tokyo Japan

This is just a summary of our trip from Manila to Tokyo and vice versa. Just to give you an idea, on what to expect or how to travel to Tokyo, Japan. 

 Manila to Tokyo 

 Japan is on my bucket list so I was really glad when our visas were all approved. I immediately checked the available flight for our schedule. You can choose Narita or Haneda airport if you are going to Tokyo, Japan. 

 Read: How to Apply for Japan Visa if you have Philippine Passport 
How to Apply for Multiple Entry Japan Tourist Visa
I chose Narita because the flight is earlier but I realized that I should choose Haneda because it is near to Central Tokyo so travel time to Tama Center would be shorter and the fare would be cheaper.

 From/To Narita International Airport By Airport Limousine Bus

 Time: 120 - 145 min.
Fare: Adult JPY 3,400 Child JPY 1,700 

 From/To Haneda Airport By Airport Limousine Bus 

 Time: 80 - 120 min.
Fare: Adult JPY 1,540 Child JPY 770 
We left at 2AM in the morning for our 6:30AM flight. Before boarding, we downloaded the myPAL Player for our in-flight entertainment but we were so disappointed na hindi siya available sa flight namin. Waah! It was really a long flight for my son, I did not bring his Ipad pa naman para less bitbitin. 
Anyway, I was glad that they served the meal for kids first so no more long wait for them. There were only two choices so we chose both meals. I thought we have ice cream for dessert just like our Singapore to Manila experience but no ice cream for us, fruits lang ang dessert. Hehehe! So every flight is a different experience.


Read: Singapore to Manila Philippine Airlines Experience

After 4 hours we landed in Narita International Airport Terminal 2, we just walked on our way to Immigration. I was surprised to see a Filipina staff at the airport so she checked our immigration card to make sure na tama ang information and she said kahit wala na answer yung sa "money”. I forgot to fill out the back part, may 4 questions pa pala dun. :) 

Then we got our luggage and went to Airport Limousine Bus Ticket Counter. We landed at 11:30AM and the next schedule of the shuttle bus is 2:50PM. Waah! It was really a long wait so no use ang early flight namin, sana nag-Haneda airport na lang kami. We enjoyed our time na lang, people watching while waiting for our airport shuttle bus. 

Then we fell in line, parang airport din. They put a tag on our check-in luggage and you need to show it to get your luggage. The bus is clean and spacious and you need to fasten your seat belt. It is almost 2 hours ride from Narita airport to Tama Center. 
After our long travel, we finally reach the hotel (Keio Plaza Hotel Tama) which is just a 1 minute walk from the bus station.

Read: Keio Plaza Hotel Tama

Tokyo to Manila 

 After 6 days of vacation, we have to say goodbye to Tokyo. We bought our Airport Limousine Bus Ticket at the hotel and there was no extra charge. We just made a reservation and you can pay upon check-out. They gave us the tickets and went to Bus Station 16 as early as 4:30AM for our 5:10AM schedule. 

Again, almost two hours of travel so we just slept on the bus. We were thankful that we arrived on time because our flight is 9:30AM, di yata uso traffic sa Japan. Hehehe! 

We checked-in and went to immigration, on our way to immigration I was nervous because airport staff picked-up my hand carry bag and brought it into inspection table. Kinabahan talaga ko kung ano yung nakita sa bag ko, yung Japanese curry (in sachet) lang pala ang salarin. Bawal nga pala yung liquid and nawala sa isip ko na liquid yung Japanese curry. Pinagsama-sama ko lang kasi sa isang bag lahat ng pasalubong. Grrr, sayang yung Japanese curry. Lesson learned, check maigi ang handcarry bag. 

Then after immigration, I bought Royce Chocolates. Ang sarap mamili kung marami lang pera. Royce Chocolates are really affordable here in Japan pero ang mahal sa Pinas. Panic buying ang iba but I only bought 3 kinds of Royce Chocolates para makatikim lang ulit kami. hehehe!

 Read: Royce Nama Chocolates (Brunei)

 We did not wait long, boarding na agad kami and we’re so happy because this time we can watch a movie. Yehey! My in-flight entertainment na. I also noticed that PAL doesn’t provide headset na noh so better bring your own earphones. I watched “Everyday I Love You”. 
My son borrowed hubby's Ipad so he can watch movies. (no games on the Ipad)

These are the meals from Tokyo to Manila, my husband did not like the Poached COD. Buti na lang beef order namin. Hehehe! 

We really had a great time in Japan and I’ve learned a lot during this vacation which I will share in my upcoming post. 

 Day 1 Arrival to Tokyo Japan 
Day 2 Sanrio Puroland 
          Shibuya Crossing + Hachiko Statue
Day 3 Tama Zoological Park 
          Keio Rail-Land
Day 4 Takahata Fudoson Temple 
          Showa Kinen Park 
          IKEA Tachikawa
Day 5 Tokyo DisneySea 
Day 6 Exploring Tama Tokyo 
Day 7 Departure. Tokyo to Manila
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May 30, 2016

Kidzania Manila: Where Kids Do Big Things

Update: I've read from CNN Philippines article last July 22 that Kidzanila Manila is closing down by end of August 31, 2020 after months of shutdown due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

 Last year, I was excited when I learned that Kidzania would be opening in the Philippines because I know that my son would have fun doing those activities. I even joined in their giveaways and got some stuff. But when I asked my son if he wanted to go to Kidzania, he said no.

Ethan: I don’t like that! I don’t want to work! I can’t do that!
Me: No, that’s not difficult. They will teach and train you how to do the activity. Remember when you grow old, you really need to work to provide your needs and wants.

As a mom, I felt scared when my son said that he didn’t like to work. Waah! I don’t like to raise a lazy man, one day he will have his own family and he needs to provide for them. I want him to have a family na hindi nakaasa sa parents.

He said those lines too when I want him to register for McDonald’s Kiddie Crew Club last year. My husband told me, relax! Bata pa yan, hindi pa niya gaano maintindihan yan mga bagay na ganyan. Well, sana nga!

Read: McDonald’s Kiddie Crew Club 

So from first grading, his birthday celebration, semestral break, Christmas break up to the fourth grading of the school year, I was asking if he wanted to go to Kidzania, and the answer is always no. I follow Kidzania’s Facebook page and Instagram to keep me updated so when I saw that they have Art & Design Academy, I immediately told my son about it.

Me: Di ba you like painting activity? Check these pictures o, you can paint in Kidzania.

 Read: Painting at Sip and Gogh

After several months of persuading my son to go to Kidzania, he finally said yes. We were supposed to go here last April 21 for my niece birthday celebration but we went to Cebu and my nephew got sick so we moved it to April 28.

16 Activities in One Day Trip at Kidzania Manila 
Click here for the video 

We were there as early as 7:15AM, sumabay kasi kami sa pasok ni hubby sa office so he dropped us in Kidzania Manila and we waited till 8AM (ticket counter opening time).


We bought our ticket and the staff placed a security bracelet on our hand and gave us a boarding pass and check. Then we waited for my sister’s family. Upon boarding, the staff gave us the map so we checked the different activities while waiting for the opening.


Though I’ve been seeing pictures of Kidzania Manila on Social Media and even TV, I was still amazed when I saw the mini buildings, establishments, and even transportation up close and personal. It is like a mini city where everything is within walking distance. I wish meron ito nung bata pa ko. Hehehe!

At 9AM, we immediately fell in line so my son could encash the check as soon as possible. Then we went straight to 1. Fire Department, it is one of the in-demand jobs in Kidzania so I was happy that we were able to cross it out on our list. Click here for the video

Then after the first activity, we went to Pazzport Office to avail the CitiZen Pazzport for P250. Being a CitiZen, you will have more benefits like earning more Kidzos or paying fewer Kidzos. (+2 and - 2 Kidzos). You get a discount at Department Store, National Store, and Photography. You will receive emails about the special offers and publications and you can check your resume online. You will get a stamp for each establishment that you will visit. Sayang lang, we have no stamp sa Fire Department kasi inuna namin.

I told my son to work first so he can earn more Kidzos, so the second job is at 2. Courier Service, my son said “Hirap nito mommy” hehehe! At least he knows what job he doesn’t like.

Next is 3. Workout at Fitness Lab, effort talaga to get Kidzos, pawis na pawis after. Hehehe! 

 Then they work at 4. Vet Clinic, 5. Laudromat, 6. Hotel, 7. Construction Site and 8. Gas Station. 

After working so hard, it’s time to spend some Kidzos; my son went to another in-demand job which is 9. Pilot. Sayang lang I don’t have photos because I cannot go inside and I cannot see him outside. I went to Photo Studio so I could buy pictures but he had no picture inside the Aviation Academy.

He learned 10. how to make pizza and we ate it too. 

We went back to Car Design and Dealership so he could apply for 11. driver’s license and I was proud of him because he passed the test. May bumabagsak pala sa exam na yan. Buti pa anak ko my driver’s license na. Hehehe! Then, of course, we went back to Gas Station so he can 12. drive the car. Remember, you cannot drive a car without a license.

Then his last activity at the Automotive is 13. Car Designing and he got a printout of his masterpiece.

After spending Kidzos, it was time to work again so he went to 14. Fish Market, 15. Art Academy and 16. Farm House Store.

We were there from past 7AM til 4PM but we did not notice the time because we really had a good time. We were so glad that we were able to do 16 activities during our first visit and I can definitely say that we will go back again. We were not able to open savings account in the bank because of the limited time so dinala na lang namin pag-uwi. We ate at McDonald while waiting for my husband, 5PM pa out sa office so matagal na paghihintay. Lol My husband was teasing my son, “Akala ko ba, you don’t like Kidzania, bakit babalik pa” hehehe! Lesson learned, don’t say no, try it first.

Read: 12 Activities in One Day at Kidzania Manila
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May 24, 2016

How to Apply for Japan Tourist Visa if you have Philippines Passport

Our family loves to travel but if you are an old follower of this blog, you will notice that we only visit those countries that do not require a visa. We always travel on a shoestring so applying for a visa is still an additional cost. There are so many countries that Filipinos can travel to without a need for visa application.

Read: Visa-Free Travel for Filipinos
How to Apply for Multiple Entry Japan Tourist Visa
In addition, I’m so scared that my visa will be denied. I dislike wasted time, effort, and money for visa application. But I cannot deny that there are countries that I really want to visit that requires visa including Japan.

Japan is on my bucket list because I want to experience Cherry Blossoms but I was not able to experience it because my husband’s training was rescheduled. It was supposed to be April 4-6, then it was moved to April 25-27 but because of the Golden Week, it was rescheduled again. So no more Sakura for us but of course I still want to visit Japan.


My husband sent me the list of requirements for Japan Tourist Visa and I immediately checked the list. I was sad at first because we need NSO birth certificate and marriage certificate that is valid within the year. Thank God that the training was rescheduled so I have enough time to prepare the requirements.

 Japan Tourist Visa Requirements 

1. Passport
- The validity of more than 6 months/signed passport
- Broken lamination of the picture portion will not be accepted
- Must have at least 2 blank pages left in the passport.
2. Visa Application Form 
Download the form here 
Fill out the form and print or print and write in block letters
3. Photo (1 Copy of 4.5cm x 4.5cm with white background) 
I informed the photographer that I need a picture for Japan Visa and we were surprised when we got the pictures, nakaformal clothes na kami.
4. Birth Certificate (NSO issued with a receipt and valid within 1 year) 
Applicants holding (old or valid) passports with used Japan Visa will be exempted from submitting a birth certificate.

Read: 3 Ways to Get your NSO Birth Certificate and Marriage Certificate

In case of non-record of registration of live birth.
- Non-record in the NSO. Need a certificate of Non-record from the NSO and Birth Certificate from the Local Civil Registrar.
- Non-record in the NSO and Local Civil Registrar. Need a certificate of non-record from the NSO and the Local Civil Registrar.

If NSO issued is not clear
- Birth certificate from the Local Civil Registrar

If Birth Certificate is Late-registration 
- Birth certificate from the Local Civil Registrar
- Original Baptismal Certificate, School Record (Form 137 or report card) School Year Book.

5. Marriage Contract (if married) NSO issued and valid within 1 year 
Applicants holding (old or valid) passports with used Japan Visa will be exempted from submitting of a marriage contract.
In the case of non-record. You must submit a certificate of non-record together with the one from Local Civil Registrar.
6. Tour Itinerary 
Prepared by the applicant or the travel agency. Followed this format.
7. Bank Balance Certificate or a Copy of bank Book Pages for the past two years. 
8. Income Tax Return (Form 2316 or 1701) original and 1 photocopy. 

Housewife Japan Tourist Visa Requirements

1. Passport
2. Visa Application Form with Photo 4.5cm x 4.5cm with white background)
3. NSO Birth Certificate with receipt
4. NSO Marriage Contract with receipt
5. Tour Itinerary
6. Bank Balance Certificate: I have my own savings account but I submitted our joint account just to be safe since I am not working.
7. Photocopy of Valid ID (not in the list but my husband add this)

Student Japan Tourist Visa Requirements

1. Passport
2. Visa Application Form with Photo 4.5cm x 4.5cm with white background)
3. NSO Birth Certificate with receipt
4. Tour Itinerary
5. Photocopy of School ID (not in the list but my husband add this)

Our Experience in Applying for Japan Tourist Visa

 April 19: My husband submitted the requirements in their travel agency. He got an email a few days after, the travel agency was asking for his Income Tax Return, maybe because I did not submit ITR. My husband was applying for Business Visa and ITR was not on his list.
April 26: He submitted the ITR.
April 28: He had a personal appearance (interview), it is a requirement for Business Visa. The agency put our application in one envelope even we are applying for a different visa.
May 3: My husband was advised that our passports are ready for pick-up. He advised the staff to deliver it to his office.
May 4: We got our passports. Visa approved. Yehey!

Note: Japan Visa is FREE but visa applications must be made through agencies accredited by Consulate of Japan. Check it here

The handling fee depends on the travel agency, in our case napamahal kami. My husband submitted our requirements to their company accredited travel agency, then the agency submitted the requirements in Friendship Tours and Resorts Corporation.

So when I learned about this, I told my husband, “Ako na lang kaya mag-apply, sayang yung bayad kahit ako na magbayad ng Business Visa mo mas makakamura pa rin tayo.” Sobrang mahal ng handling fee, libre nga lang Japan Visa. But my husband didn’t like the idea na hiwalay pa pagprocess and he reminded me na first time ito, sige ka baka madeny pa. He even said, wala na ko time mag-asikaso pa, may schedule interview na ko. Ok fine, lunok na lang sa gastos.

Good thing that we are all approved, so I immediately searched for cheap airfare Manila to Narita since I did not like the Manila to Haneda flight time. Yes, we applied for Japan Visa without a plane ticket. Visa is valid from May 2 to Aug 2, 2016 (3 months)

Visa Application Expense

 P255 - picture
P100 - bank certificate
P1,050 - NSO birth certificate (2) and marriage certificate (1)
P2,400 - handling fee of Friendship Tours and Resorts Corporation (P1,200 x 2)
P3,360 - handling fee of (company accredited travel agency (P1,680 x 2)

Total damage is P7,165 for 2 pax, kung ako nag-ayos P3805. If ever we will go back to Japan, ako na mag-apply para mas tipid.

Tip: You can also take advantage of the sale at Travel Expo, travel agencies are offering Japan Visa and Korean Visa for as low as PHP500.
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May 23, 2016

3 Ways to Get your NSO Birth Certificate, Marriage Certificate, Death Certificate and CENOMAR

Update: Click here for the updated post on How to Get PSA Birth Certificate, Marriage Certificate, Death Certificate, and CENOMAR

My husband has training in Japan so he wanted us to join his trip since it’s been years since we went out of the country. Our last family trip was in Malaysia and Singapore.

Read: 6 Days in Kuala Lumpur and Singapore

I was excited because Japan is on my bucket list and I’ve been meaning to see Cherry Blossoms. So I immediately checked the Japan Tourist Visa requirements. Waah! I need a birth certificate and marriage contract and it should be NSO issued with a receipt and valid within one year.

We have the documents but we don’t have the receipt and the documents are way beyond one year already. So I was searching for the easiest way to get our documents so we could apply for a visa, as in one-day processing lang.

Read: How to Apply for Japan Visa if you have Philippine Passport


3 Ways to Get Your NSO Birth Certificate, Marriage Certificate, Death Certificate, and CENOMAR

March 18, 2016 (Friday) 

1. Serbilis Outlets 

I checked the internet and the nearest Serbilis Outlet in our place is in Muntinlupa.

PSA Muntinlupa 
2nd level East Parking,
StarMall, Alabang
Muntinlupa City 1772
Telephone: (02) 831 9882

My husband called the number and he was advised that we can get the documents within two hours. So after my husband's dental appointment, off we went to StarMall but I was so disappointed because there is a cut-off time, we were late by a few minutes.

I just can’t remember if 1:30 or 2PM is the cut-off time. Grrrr, they should inform us about the cut-off time. Sayang talaga ang time and effort sa pagpunta and I was so sad because we could no longer join my husband’s business trip. Business Visa doesn’t need NSO birth certificate and marriage contract so my husband can apply.

On our way home, I was not talking, dinidibdib ko ang aking kalungkutan. hehehe! Then my husband remembered that he has a Malaysia trip so he cannot apply for Japan Visa. He needs his passport to go to Malaysia and according to their travel agency, the visa processing period is 5-7 working days. Hindi aabot because of the Holy Week.

March 30 to April 1 - Malaysia
April 3 to 6 - Japan

So he informed his officemate in Japan about the situation and they moved the date of the training.

2. SM Business Center

I was so happy because we can still join the business trip so we went straight to SM Business Center so I can request the documents. The SM staff gave me these forms and I was advised na one-month processing daw.


What?!? This was not the first time that I requested for NSO birth certificate and Marriage Contract so I told her, “di ba one week lang?”. She said, “Ma’m, Holy Week po kasi”. I told her 2 days lang yun, March 28 may pasok na ulit ang government. She said something pa but I just decided na wag na lang kung one month.

March 20, 2016 (Sunday)

3. NSOHelpline.com (now PSAhelpline.ph)

My husband said that we will just go back to StarMall to get my documents. I said ok pero napaisip ako, I’ve seen the long lines in Serbilis Outlet, for sure magugutom kami sa haba ng pila, may tollgate, parking at gas pa na gagastusin so I decided to order online via NSOHelpline.com. Last year, I ordered online too, and the process is almost the same.

Click order now
Choose a birth certificate or marriage certificate
Choose Passport/Travel Fill- up the form
Answer the questions:
Have you had any legal proceedings done to your birth certificate?
Who will receive the certificate upon delivery?
Check-out - Verify all the information
Order Confirmation - choose from the payment options.
Payment Summary

I paid online via credit card and after my payment, I received email and text messages regarding my order. You can track your order too.
“Thank you for using NSOHelpline.com. You have made the following request: Payments can be made online via Credit Card or Bancnet ATMS and over-the-counter via Metrobank and Bayad Centers.
Please visit https://nsohelpline.com/pay-online for more information. Your request for an NSO certificate will be processed as soon as your payment is cleared.
If (name) will not be around during delivery, then (name) should: Leave a valid ID together with his/her Letter of Authorization (LOA) to a designated representative.
You may download an LOA using this link https://nsohelpline.ph/loa Advise his/her representative to present a valid ID as well”
“Thank you for using NSOhelpline.com. We are pleased to inform you that your online payment for your NSOHelpline.com transaction was successful.
Your credit account has been charge with P350.00
If you have any inquiries or follow-up questions, you can call our Customer Assistance Hotline (02) 737-1112 or email us at nsohelpline2@teleserv.ph”
P350 birth certificate
P350 marriage contract

After payment, NSO certificate will be delivered in 2 to 3 days.

March 22, 2016 (Tuesday) I received 2 NSO Birth Certificate via Air 21
March 23, 2016 (Wednesday) I received my NSO Marriage Contract via Air 21

The delivery guy even said, "Di pa sinabay kahapon ito." Hehehe! I was also surprised na di sabay dumating order ko since I ordered naman at the same time.


Anyway, you can get your documents in

1. PSA Serbilis Outlet
2. SM Business Center
3. NSOHelpline.com now PSAHelpline.ph

Where do you usually get your documents?
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