*expect to get what you paid for… and boy did we pay dearly for being a cheapo. dreadful facade, rusty elevator, hair everywhere, horribly dirty washroom, dusty tabletops, questionable bed sheets. ulk, ulk, ulk. Chungking Mansions (more of Chungking shanty) – NEVER AGAIN!
*ditch the cab and walk, specially when you’re in Macau. All you need is a comfortable pair of shoes and you should be good to go.

these shoes are made for walking
*Travelling is too nice an activity to make room for topak. I say when you’re about to throw a fit, suck it all up and smile.
*it pays to know people. who knows who might just give you a free ticket to disneyland and 30% discounts on their shops. thanks to my “big brothers” Eric and Marvin!
*endure the hassles of miscommunication. the disconnects, when you’re flexible enough will force you to blend in to the people and their culture. “What train to disney?” or “What bus to airport?” oh, and go try doing it in their accent as well, you might just weird yourself out. hehehe. If you’re in Macau When worse comes to worst, ask a security guard, there is a 95% probability that he or she is Pinoy!
*Because they aren’t always 100% accurate, screw maps and travel guides. Be ready to get lost, and have fun while at it. Let yourself go!”Macau Grand Prix Museum, we’re here, where are you??? Pakita ka na, magbabayad naman kami eh”
*If it’s dry winter season, don’t just bring a jacket and scarf. Bring someone else along. “Hold hands na tayo bilisan mo!”, “Hindi po kami sweet, giniginaw lang po talaga kami”
*When travelling, it’s always cool to draw the “Let’s try something new” card. Alas, I’m not much of a believer of that when it comes to food but hey you can be that person, and once you’ve done that, tell me about it.
*Go ahead and embarass yourself. Take funny and weird pictures. Walk along the streets looking lost. Bring and flaunt your camera. Buy an “I Love ___” shirt if there is one. Don’t mind them, you won’t see them again in your lifetime anyway and besides, who cares???

striking a pa-cute bruce lee pose
*bring someone dear along. a friend, a relative, a loved-one. just HAVE someone along. It’s better to cherish memories if you have someone to share it with. I did.