tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-59619437444549614822024-03-25T03:31:48.281+04:00Icing and Write: Top Dubai Lifestyle and Travel BlogIcing and Write is the online vision board, lifestyle and travel diary of Aizzing — a book nerd, part-time traveller and full-time media dork currently based in Dubai, with posts that are big on sweets, inspiration and adventureAizzingRhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10571037081163834969noreply@blogger.comBlogger139125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5961943744454961482.post-4182743005809027002019-10-29T00:51:00.000+04:002020-03-09T20:37:43.780+04:00Spending The Perfect Two Days in Antwerp, Belgium<div style="text-align: justify;">
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When we went to our very first trip to Europe few years back, I couldn't pass up the chance to finally visit <u>Antwerp</u> <span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; text-align: right; white-space: nowrap;">—</span> a tiny yet charming port city in Belgium that I've always been fascinated with as a kid. Before the trip, people around me actually kept on asking <i>"Why Antwerp?</i>" because it sounded like such an odd choice since it's not yet a popular travel destination among our circle. But with its colorful history, inspiring art scene, vibrant fashion, yummy Belgian waffles, delicious beer and chocolates, I don't see why not.</div>
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I was made aware of Antwerp's fabulous existence on the map sometime in the 90's because of an animated movie produced by Japanese film studio Nippon called "Dog of Flanders", which was based off Marie Louise de la Ramee's 1872 novel of the same name. That awareness of Antwerp from way back my childhood eventually evolved through the years and has transformed into a full-blown obsession. </div>
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<i><span style="color: #ea9999; font-size: large;">That scene of poor young boy named Nello and his loyal dog named Patrasche, both dying in front of a Rubens painting inside a cathedral in Antwerp broke my heart as a child, and eventually sparked my interest on celebrated Baroque artist Peter Paul Rubens and the dream of someday visiting this quaint city.</span></i></blockquote>
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We spent barely <u>two days in Antwerp</u> and I couldn't help but feel downright criminal right after, because those two days felt more like a split second to me. Our stay was painfully short, because the minute we stepped out of the train, it immediately became quite obvious to us that Antwerp does not deserve a mere stop-over. The many things you can see and experience in this vibrant little city obviously call for a full week vacay (probably even more to be honest).<br />
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How I wish I can write a complete travel guide on the wonderful city of Antwerp, but for now, let me just recount our brief adventure to atleast give you a glimpse of what's in store for you in this Belgian gem of a city in case you haven't been there.</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i>Where to stay in Antwerp</i></span><br />
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We stayed in <a href="https://www.agoda.com/pages/agoda/default/DestinationSearchResult.aspx?pcs=1&cid=1753634&hl=en&selectedproperty=49357&city=16169" target="_blank">Astoria Hotel</a>, which was only a five-minute walk from Antwerpen-Centraal railway station. It's priced as an average hotel, but with the spacious rooms, varied breakfast buffet spread, and friendly staff, this hotel delivered way beyond expectations that it felt almost luxurious. I really felt like we hit the jackpot with this hotel because we had such a comfortable stay all throughout.</div>
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<a href="https://www.agoda.com/partners/partnersearch.aspx?pcs=1&cid=1753634&city=16169">Book the best hotel in Antwerp in Belgium</a><br />
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Astoria is located in the city's Diamond Quarter (also dubbed as "Square Mile") because in order to get there, you have to walk past countless diamond shops in all their shining shimmering glory. This shouldn't come as a surprise since Antwerp is <u>the world's diamond capital.</u><br />
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<u>One cool fact:</u> Did you know that more than 80% of the world's diamonds are said to be traded in Antwerp? So if you're a firm believer that diamonds are a girl's best friend, Antwerp is definitely the best place to get your bling fix.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i>Inspire your inner artist</i></span><br />
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Antwerp has always been known as a haven for artists, designers, and art aficionados. Van Gogh, his contemporaries, and a long impressive list of other notable artists and fashion designers have been particularly drawn to this posh little city throughout the years. The Royal Academy of Fine Arts, founded in 1663 and located in Antwerp, is actually one of the oldest art academies in Europe, and considered as one of the most prestigious academies in the world.<br />
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Huge and colorful murals like this can be spotted all over Antwerp</div>
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We visited this small novelty shop somewhere in the city center to buy some quirky postcards and graphic shirts. The nice shop owner explained to us the meaning of the Dutch phrase "Moet Just Niks" that's printed on a lot of their products. If I remember it correctly, it's basically translated as <i>"must be nothing"</i> or <i>"must do nothing," </i>which sort of means one must not be pressured or feel stressed out by other people's expectations. </div>
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It's the same as saying <i>"don't worry,"</i> <i>"just relax and do not give a f***"</i>, and <i>"live your life the way you want to,"</i> which, according to him, is so inherently Dutch. Now, ain't that an awesome life mantra? :)</div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-large;">The most beautiful train station in the world</span></i><br />
The Sinjorens' flair for artistry is so apparent in every corner of the city that it's not only the delicious waft of freshly-made waffles that will welcome you the moment you step out of the train. The grandness and magical allure of <u>Antwerpen-Centraal station</u> (also commonly called <i>Middenstatie</i>,<i> </i>which means "middle station") could really give Hogwarts a run for its money. It looks mesmerizing beyond words!<br />
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As I was walking down the grand staircase in the main hall with my luggage, I came close to expecting Professor McGonagall to actually come out with the magical sorting hat that will declare me Gryffindor worthy. I guess you could say that I was seriously <u>starstruck by a train station</u> (Yes! There is such a thing!).<br />
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The station's ornate facade peppered with gold accents, stone-clad interiors, vast dome, large petal-shaped glass ceiling windows, and overall eclectic design <i>(Was it neoclassical? Art deco? I have no idea at all)</i> are such a magnificent feast to the eyes. With its stunningly complex architecture and old world charm, it's really no wonder why it's been dubbed as <u>the most beautiful train station in the world</u>.<br />
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Antwerpen-Centraal railway station was constructed in 1895 and also bears witness to the incredibly rich culture and history of Antwerp, including World War II. It is a museum in itself and truly deserves a visit when in Antwerp. Trust me on this. :)<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i>The main event </i></span><span style="background-color: white; text-align: right; white-space: nowrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">—</span></span><span style="font-size: x-large;"><i> fin<span style="font-family: inherit;">ally </span>meeting Rubens</i></span></div>
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The first thing we did was visit <u>Rubenshuis</u> or Rubens' House<span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; text-align: right; white-space: nowrap;">— </span>the very reason why we're in Antwerp. Our train arrived in Antwerp around 4PM on a Sunday so we had to rush in order to get to the museum. At first I was still on the fence if that was a good thing, but since the museum will be closed the following day (a Monday), we really had no choice. And since they were almost closing, we had Peter Paul Rubens' former 17th-century mansion and studio all to ourselves, which felt like a private viewing exclusively for us. So I guess in the end, it's still a win for me. :)<br />
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It felt so surreal being in the same house where Rubens used to live; also the study and dwelling place for a lot of other important artists. If only those walls could speak! I seriously got major goosebumps while marveling at the well-preserved art pieces by the master himself and his contemporaries.<br />
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Fortunately for us, since it wasn't a busy day, the staff manning the studio at that time was super nice to extend a little bit, so we can explore his gardens too, albeit still rather short.<br />
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I was particularly captivated by Rubens' beautiful portrait of his only daughter Clara Serena who died at the age of 12. It was part of the exhibition <u>Rubens in Private,</u> which was running at that time.<br />
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So much controversy surrounded this painting. It was initially dismissed by New York's Metropolitan Museum as the work of a mere follower and was valued at £22,000. But years later, the painting is now regarded as an authentic Rubens' work and is now already valued at millions.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-So0uZOdsmpUWZdYkFINX3d1uWmEfwk859Kz-l7UyJ0tLM-uJAUBEzosKRghNg_WlpZMXGV4oQewdeQ7Fk0VgwoBUXKrlDbiGPf4Wv1XaYZ2Ruv8QhA9CSgFUB418FUGamvL57t4U0-8/s1600/Clara+Serena+Peter+Paul+Rubens.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1201" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-So0uZOdsmpUWZdYkFINX3d1uWmEfwk859Kz-l7UyJ0tLM-uJAUBEzosKRghNg_WlpZMXGV4oQewdeQ7Fk0VgwoBUXKrlDbiGPf4Wv1XaYZ2Ruv8QhA9CSgFUB418FUGamvL57t4U0-8/s1600/Clara+Serena+Peter+Paul+Rubens.jpg" /></a></div>
It's not as extravagant compared to his other works, which is understandable considering Rubens' emotional and grieving state as a father while he was painting it back in the 1620's when he lost his daughter. But this understated artistry and melancholia add to its mystery and make this piece even more special.<br />
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<i><b>The exact address of Rubens House</b></i><br />
Wapper 9-11, 2000 Antwerp, Belgium<br />
Opening hours are from 10AM until 5PM everyday (except Monday) and final admission is usually 30 minutes before closing. The museum is exceptionally open on Easter Monday and Whit Monday. They are closed on the following days: Monday, 1 January, 1 May, Ascension Day, 1 November and 25 December<br />
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<u>One tip:</u> You can schedule your visit to Rubens House during the last Wednesday of the month so you can enter for free. Before paying for your ticket, ask first if they have any on-going promotion or special offer. At the time of our visit, the regular admission price for adults was 8 euros, but since we arrived in Antwerp through one of the regional/intercity trains, we presented our train ticket and the ticketing staff gave us a discount, which was surprisingly nice.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i>The best Belgian treats</i></span><br />
We were devouring fresh hot waffles every chance we got when we were in Antwerp. Maybe it was just me, but it actually felt "extra" fancy eating Belgian waffles in their home court. I had a huge smile plastered on my face throughout our trip because of it.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirI0InFEYZIFzLjkwaTYc9Wz68NqGiSepgjnVfXdALron0yD7xo5tr0v2GnBHLOUL_Oe729hbCvDDqCRPor2kgYsZVpO5hL07-FyR0tc87JkS3bVFfCk5Rrw1mZWDvoLjc_JX6Y5DH7qI/s1600/eating+fresh+hot+belgian+waffles+in+belgium.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirI0InFEYZIFzLjkwaTYc9Wz68NqGiSepgjnVfXdALron0yD7xo5tr0v2GnBHLOUL_Oe729hbCvDDqCRPor2kgYsZVpO5hL07-FyR0tc87JkS3bVFfCk5Rrw1mZWDvoLjc_JX6Y5DH7qI/s1600/eating+fresh+hot+belgian+waffles+in+belgium.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8soWKkfR7JS6b5eGwPYLpVqqDpOkdZdUohxbuLFljvuQs9KNuqTmJ83n52xCGnst_cXc3-757eOsCXWiseiE5daNHkNReZ3HkhfKC54YDJ2xJsjY4ENcCRXvQHn0FnFq5wou08j6VmqQ/s1600/the+best+belgian+waffle+in+belgium.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8soWKkfR7JS6b5eGwPYLpVqqDpOkdZdUohxbuLFljvuQs9KNuqTmJ83n52xCGnst_cXc3-757eOsCXWiseiE5daNHkNReZ3HkhfKC54YDJ2xJsjY4ENcCRXvQHn0FnFq5wou08j6VmqQ/s1600/the+best+belgian+waffle+in+belgium.jpg" /></a></div>
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Of course, we got to sample a lot of Belgian chocolates and even brought home tons of premium pralines too from Leonidas<span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; text-align: right; white-space: nowrap;">—</span> one of the finest chocolatiers in Belgium no less.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_WyUdN2jA1E9MDNp5trQefyM9cWBT1wcb3osntvqxqCzb2hEFAF7ZHHqXczq5QYyL-DKgOQNryRrPIfNgPitc1jCDbdNVp4FXj47VxW9abNXn1bjNUbNbdZvEDSg4maJASB32dQ5eh20/s1600/leonidas+store+antwerp+belgium.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1209" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_WyUdN2jA1E9MDNp5trQefyM9cWBT1wcb3osntvqxqCzb2hEFAF7ZHHqXczq5QYyL-DKgOQNryRrPIfNgPitc1jCDbdNVp4FXj47VxW9abNXn1bjNUbNbdZvEDSg4maJASB32dQ5eh20/s1600/leonidas+store+antwerp+belgium.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqS3KgnlwOZLrHuPySjee-S8H2zDXHwORyAyKLa-BJTTWwMRYMaoFcZ3-0rpO79JBc7_xhCcllfLfZ2Z_zPABW3mLRoUIBLvhMAIeDvDMBZaIwrdKRnBmOKeaVVAABA60YBkWRP4hg6ao/s1600/finest+belgian+chocolates+in+antwerp.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="1280" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqS3KgnlwOZLrHuPySjee-S8H2zDXHwORyAyKLa-BJTTWwMRYMaoFcZ3-0rpO79JBc7_xhCcllfLfZ2Z_zPABW3mLRoUIBLvhMAIeDvDMBZaIwrdKRnBmOKeaVVAABA60YBkWRP4hg6ao/s1600/finest+belgian+chocolates+in+antwerp.jpg" /></a></div>
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<u>One tip:</u> If you have time, you can actually go on a personalized <u>Belgian chocolate tasting tour</u>. The Flanders region ain't called the Chocolates capital for nothing, and Antwerp is definitely one of the best cities to learn more about truffles, pralines and all those chocolatey goodness. Walking through the charming city center with a knowledgeable tour guide, discovering not only about its rich history, while getting treated with a variety of the finest Belgian chocolates will surely make one's Antwerpen experience a lot sweeter and more memorable.<br />
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But the best sweet treat that got first dibs on the "Made in Antwerp" tag would have to be their famous <u>Antwerp Hands</u>. These delicious local biscuits shaped like tiny hands are made of butter, eggs, sugar, flour, and almonds and taste super addicting. I started munching on one piece and next thing I knew, I already finished an entire box all in just one sitting! This biscuit's origins can be traced back in the 1930's from a culinary competition in Antwerp and the shape is based off a folk tale explaining how the city got its name.<br />
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I didn't manage to take photos of the biscuits though because they automatically went inside our stomach (so good!), but here are some silly photos of us posing next to a giant hand statue to compensate. Haha!<br />
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<span style="color: white; font-size: large;"><i style="background-color: #999999;"> How the city of Antwerp got its name </i></span></div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i><span style="color: #e06666; font-size: large;">According to the legend, the city got its name from a mythical giant named "Antigoon" and the Dutch words "hand werpen" which means "to throw". Antigoon who used to live near the river banks of Scheldt would extort money from residents crossing the river, and he would chop off the hands of those who refused to pay him. Fortunately, a brave Roman soldier named Silvius Brabo battled Antigoon, cut the giant's hand in revenge, and threw it into the river. This well-loved story continues to live on and the city still shows their reverence for the local hero. In fact, a statue of Brabo holding a hand prominently stands in front of the City Hall to this day.</span><span style="color: #e06666; font-size: medium;"><b><span style="color: #666666;"> </span></b></span></i></blockquote>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i>But you can't take Asia out of the girl</i></span><br />
We were already in the middle of our Euro trip when we arrived in Antwerp from Amsterdam, and after not eating rice for five straight days, the Asian girl in me was already out of sorts, desperately begging for steamed white rice. So after googling "best Asian restaurants in Antwerp", we found ourselves seated comfortably inside <u>Bij Lam & Yin</u><span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; text-align: right; white-space: nowrap;">— </span>a Michelin-starred Mandarin restaurant in the middle of Reyndersstraat. It was a bit on the expensive side, but we didn't have that much choice since it was a Sunday and most of the restaurants were still closed.<br />
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We ordered a basket of dimsums, plates of wagyu beef and steamed sea bass in ginger, and few moments later they were served to us by a friendly Chinese auntie. The restaurant's peaceful and homey interiors boast of understated elegance and blended so well with the sophistication of Antwerp. It's one of the most satisfying meals we've had all throughout our Euro trip for sure.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i>Nello was here</i></span><br />
The next day, we visited Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekathedraal or the <u>Cathedral of our Lady</u><span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; text-align: right; white-space: nowrap;">— </span>a Roman catholic church located in Groenplaats, which was first constructed in 1352. Its architectural design is primarily gothic and houses several Baroque masterpieces by Peter Paul Rubens and other artists. I had a good cry seeing Rubens' works in person.<br />
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<span style="color: #e06666;">The Raising of the Cross by Peter Paul Rubens inside Cathedral of our Lady in Antwerp, Belgium</span></div>
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<span style="color: #e06666;">The Assumption of the Virgin Mary by Peter Paul Rubens inside Cathedral of our Lady in Antwerp, Belgium</span><br />
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<span style="color: #e06666;">The Descent from the Cross by Peter Paul Rubens inside Cathedral of our Lady in Antwerp, Belgium</span></div>
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The cathedral's belfry is considered as the tallest church tower in Belgium and actually listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We paid 6 euros to enter the cathedral and see the paintings on display and all the proceeds go to the restoration and maintenance of the cathedral and the masterpieces inside.<br />
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Stepping outside the cathedral, you will also see a "larger than life" statue of Nello hugging his dog Patrasche right in the middle of <u>Handschoenmarkt</u>. It's so cleverly done because the statue seems to grow out of the street. The pavement looks like a blanket comfortably wrapped around the two best friends in deep slumber. It's such a sweet and heart-tugging site to see, despite the tragic story behind it.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i>Exploring around Antwerp</i></span><br />
From Central station, it's also an easy walk to get to the fashionable <u>Meier stree</u>t<span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; text-align: right; white-space: nowrap;">— </span>the main shopping district of Antwerp's city center. This boulevard is traffic-free and where you will find most major European chain stores housed on stunning 18th and 19th century buildings in theatrical Rococo style and architecture. <u>Stadsfeestzaal</u> or the festival hall has been beautifully restored as well and is now an exclusive shopping centre. This was also the place where we bought those highly addicting Antwerp hand biscuits.<br />
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There was even this one time that I almost tripped because I kept on looking up instead of looking where we're going<span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; text-align: right; white-space: nowrap;">—</span>utterly mesmerized by the unique architecture of their beautiful old buildings that they managed to maintain so well.<br />
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<u>One tip:</u> One fun way to explore around Antwerp is by renting a bike. They have a lot of bike rental shops available all over the city and a lot of bike tour operators as well.<br />
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The weather was particularly chilly when we were there and it was very comfortable to walk around. We ended up in the old docksides area of Eilandje where <u>MAS | Museum aan de Stroom</u> is located along the ever famous <u>Scheldt River</u>.<br />
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It's an immersive museum housing significant maritime objects and chronicles the history, art, and culture of the the city's international trade and shipping industry connecting it to Europe and all over the world. MAS is also considered to be the largest museum in Antwerp. The building's art-deco style and red Indian brick facade is such a stand-out that you can easily spot it even from a distance.<br />
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The eclectic <u>Loodswezen</u> or the Antwerp Pilotage Building, located on the right bank of Scheldt upstream, is symmetrically designed and serves as a strong image binder "between the old city and the port." It is currently being used for various exhibitions and cultural events. On top of it is yet another statue of Brabo holding Antigoon's hand.<br />
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After spending some time by the riverbank, we decided to walk back again to the city center. I think it's one of the best things I love about Antwerp. Aside from being utterly beautiful, it's also safe and conveniently walkable. We didn't ride the tram or take an Uber, which to me basically translated to "more money to shop". :)<br />
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On our way back, we spotted a signboard that says <i>"Sip happens, it's okay to wine" </i>in front of a quiet pub surprisingly located right next to the cathedral. And so we did "wine" and even had one round of refreshing Belgian beer. But after walking the entire day all over the city, we decided to call it a night and headed back to the hotel early.<br />
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We didn't do much on our last day, but we did stuff our faces with a bunch of food from the restaurants located along Statiestraat. The homey <u>Arirang Korean BBQ</u> was a favorite for "obvious" reasons (Hint: R-I-C-E). I also remembered to drop the postcards in the post office for our friends and family back home, and purchased a bunch of random Antwerpen souvenirs from shops near Groenplaats.<br />
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<span style="color: #e06666; font-size: large;"><i>So one of my childhood dreams finally became a reality and until now, the experience still blows my mind. </i></span></blockquote>
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It was nice to wake up early and savor our last moments in Antwerp. After packing our luggage (<i>why the hell did we even unpack?</i>), we did linger a bit in "the most beautiful train station in the world" and enjoyed one more round of fresh hot waffles while waiting for the afternoon train bound for Paris. I remember incessantly whispering <i>thank you's</i> to my husband because he was so game and generous to indulge me with this short experience.<br />
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We kept it short and sweet, and all I can do now is hope and pray that someday I'd get to come back and do it all over again and more. :)<br />
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<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjClAbN2qlOtvNLOyM1Y2dZRL2McLkvKw8j-wj57tm_uJbbkEy5n5T1NQZzXYRaraMCGm8zWHI73Parzqtb_ZXVJgmdsOM9vCiQWoRh7qdoKA9jjQMuCCaLs1zO3bjGE6pdE0ZsZsSJiSIq/s1600/icing+and+write+dubai+lifestyle+blog+signature.jpg" style="background-color: white; border: none; color: #ff91a2; font-family: georgia, utopia, "palatino linotype", palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; height: auto; letter-spacing: 0.5px; max-width: 100%; position: relative; text-align: center;" /><br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5961943744454961482.post-79972681395895839202019-10-12T03:35:00.000+04:002020-03-29T15:28:20.373+04:00A *Literally* Mind-blowing Journey to the Top of Europe<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD640gYfeTKDOqMDNpCtU606OQHLgLmjhTP7lK_0idMFU5KlqUAVIgVhKqh_0Jwy3JyL5KupejKKYnxagZSuW4Bt34Qqno_iKpKfhvxQLrAQhX-f0eTA_pY74_IuFGt6U8e_qlS-8cTlw/s1600/train+to+jungfraujoch.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1089" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD640gYfeTKDOqMDNpCtU606OQHLgLmjhTP7lK_0idMFU5KlqUAVIgVhKqh_0Jwy3JyL5KupejKKYnxagZSuW4Bt34Qqno_iKpKfhvxQLrAQhX-f0eTA_pY74_IuFGt6U8e_qlS-8cTlw/s1600/train+to+jungfraujoch.JPG" /></a></div>
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No trip to Switzerland is ever complete without actually experiencing the Swiss Alps. There's a great abundance of Alpine mountain adventures you can choose from in the ‘land of milk and money’ but if you have the time and the budget for it, why not go all out and visit the very <u>Top of Europe</u> itself or <b>Jungfraujoch</b>?<br />
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While some may claim that it's severely overrated, despite the struggle we faced due to the rainy weather when we visited it last June, I have to say that our <u>Jungfraujoch experience</u> was one of the most "mind-blowing" and unforgettable adventures we’ve ever taken together so far. </div>
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<i><span style="color: #e06666; font-size: large;">So what exactly is <u>Jungfraujoch</u>? </span></i><br />
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<i><span style="color: #e06666; font-size: large;">Jungfraujoch is a glacial saddle, which amazingly connects the two majestic peaks of Switzerland: Jungfrau and Monch, and boasts an elevation of over 3,466 meters above sea level. The Jungfraujoch railway station is also the highest in all of Europe with an elevation of 3,454 metres and thus earning it the title "Top of Europe". </span></i></blockquote>
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<i style="font-size: x-large;">What can you do inside Jungfraujoch?</i><br />
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Growing up in a tropical country and now living perpetually sunkissed here in the Middle East, any activity that involves snow is enough to get us all excited. That's why we were thrilled to discover that whatever the weather and be it outdoors or indoors, you can actually do a ton of snow-related activities inside Jungfraujoch. Imagine walking through a glacier, visiting an actual Ice Palace, building a snowman, and even skiing at any time of the year. If the cold never bothered you anyway (move over, Elsa!), you can do all of these and more when you go to Jungfraujoch. </div>
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<i style="font-size: x-large;">How do you get to Jungfraujoch? </i></div>
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The Jungfrau Railway is open all year-round and the journey time from Interlaken-Ost normally takes around 2 hours. You can <a href="https://www.jungfrau.ch/en-gb/jungfraujoch-top-of-europe/" target="_blank">book your ticket ahead of time online</a> or you can buy it on the spot from Interlaken-Ost train station. But for me, it makes much more sense and in fact more practical to book it on the spot, so you'd get to check the weather first and know if it's something you can handle before you head out there.</div>
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<u>One tip:</u> If you have a Swiss Pass, present it upon purchasing your Jungfraujoch tickets to get an instant discount of up to 25%. You can also take a print out of the train schedule with you from the counter in order for you to pace your visit and not miss the last train from the top. The friendly ticketing staff even highlighted the important timings in the schedule that we need to take note of for our easy reference.</div>
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From Interlaken-Ost, first you need to ride the train that will get you to either Lauterbrunnen or Grindelwald via the Bernese Oberland Railway. Next, you need to change to the Wengernalp rack railway and go to Kleine Scheidegg. Then, you must ride the Jungfrau Railway, which will transport you directly to Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe.</div>
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">Do you need a tour guide to get to Jungfraujoch?</span></i></div>
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Honestly, I recommend that you just skip the tour guide and enjoy it at your own pace. The ticket to go up is already expensive as it is, so paying for a tour guide is an unnecessary additional expense. There are lots of signs and leaflets available in Jungfraujoch that you can read and will guide you throughout your visit anyway. Jungfraujoch is one experience you can definitely do and enjoy all on your own.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Our Jungfraujoch - Top of Europe experience</i></span><br />
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The weather in Jungfraujoch was totally bonkers the entire week we were in Switzerland. Visibility was near zero and the strong winds that came with the rain gave us no choice but to postpone our visit several times. But as we were nearing the end of our trip, we decided to just throw caution in the wind (quite literally I must say) and boarded the train from Zurich to Interlaken, praying for the best. </div>
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Fortunately, it became sunny the moment we arrived in Interlaken-Ost, so we immediately purchased our tickets. But since it was almost noon when we left Zurich, the staff informed us that we'll have roughly two hours to spend at the Top of Europe (which was to be honest, more than enough for me because it was freezing), and that we must make sure that we catch the last train scheduled to go back down from Jungfraujoch.</div>
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Since we were the last batch to ascend, there weren't a lot of people with us and I really enjoyed the downtime <span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; text-align: right; white-space: nowrap;">―</span>relishing one of the most peaceful and probably most relaxing moments of our entire Switzerland trip. We even managed to take a lot of beautiful pictures for posterity's sake, which was such a great bonus. </div>
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The Swiss villages and scenic mountain views we saw from the train ride were absolutely breath-taking, and I think that alone made the entire trip worth it. Eventhough it started drizzling midway, it honestly still felt like you're watching "the best of nature" series in high-def! If this isn't what dreams are made of, I don't know what is. :)</div>
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<i><a href="http://www.icingandwrite.com/2019/07/how-to-see-matterhorn-with-best-view.html" target="_blank">I wrote about altitude sickness and how to deal with it in my post about our trip to Zermatt to see the Matterhorn before. You can read about that experience in this link right here</a></i></div>
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As we approached Eismeer station (the underground railway station bored into Mount Eiger and also the last station before Jungfraujoch), we started feeling extremely cold and the icy wind even added to the agony. Good thing the train briefly stopped in Eismeer for us to catch our breath. So the minute we reached Jungfraujoch station, we decided to rest for a little bit in the restaurant and share a bowl of hot cup noodles as we waited for the earlier crowd of tourists to disperse.<br />
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While everyone's raring to board the train and wrap off their Jungfraujoch experience, we were psyched to start exploring inside. Excitement came over us, and in an instant we were like energetic kids once again.</div>
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All smiles standing beside the gigantic snow globe inside the Alpine Sensation</div>
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Crazy, I know, but we couldn't help but literally lick the frosted walls of the Ice Palace </div>
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The metal door leading to the outdoors forcibly swung open when we tried to open it and next thing we knew, we were literally slapped in our faces by a raging snow storm. That was the moment I realized that howling icy wind can scare the wits out of you. It was terrible! I was really taken aback at first and almost chickened out, but the minute I saw that famous “Top of Europe” red flag from afar (which was located right beside a dangerous cliff by the way. No easy feat I'm telling you), I powered through while repeatedly telling my husband “This is what we came for”. There’s no way we cannot complete this entire Jungfraujoch experience without getting outside.</div>
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The smile of a winner :)</div>
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It was totally deserted when we stayed out in that snow storm for almost 10 minutes. We were like two goofy kids who couldn’t care less if we’re swept off by the strong winds all the way down the cliff. I think we did the whole she-bang: tasted the fresh white snow (because we're total baboons like that. It actually tasted wonderful in case you're wondering), laughed our frozen asses off while throwing snow balls at each other <span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; text-align: right; white-space: nowrap;">―</span>screaming expletives at the top of our lungs (directed at the Swiss mountain peaks of Jungfrau and Monch because they're right in front of our faces but we could barely see them), and were even half expecting too see actual white walkers to appear from underneath the thick snow ready to eat us alive. It was a ridiculously fun moment in Jungfraujoch that I will talk about for many years to come, but knowing me, I will probably never forget it for the rest of my life. </div>
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When we couldn’t feel our faces anymore that's when we decided to head back inside and complete the tour to see the exhibits, get our Top of Europe passport stamped, and purchase some small souvenirs from the shop.
The last train back down was already waiting for us when we went to the station, which was such a nice surprise. They gave us small bars of Lindt chocolates as a treat when we boarded the train and we gobbled them all up in less than 3 seconds with a silly smile still plastered on our faces. It was incredible! :)</div>
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">So when is the best time to go to Jungfraujoch?</span></i><br />
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Not even gonna lie, but there's really no perfect time because there's no way you can predict the weather especially at the top. The only tip I can give you is try to monitor the overall weather in Jungfrau and regularly check the <a href="https://www.jungfrau.ch/en-gb/live/webcams/" target="_blank">live web cams</a> as well to see the visibility, so you'd know what to expect. </div>
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We visited first week of June and the weather wasn't at all ideal, but we still enjoyed our experience so much because we almost had the place to ourselves and there were still many indoor activities we managed to do. The staff told us that the skies were clear earlier in the day, but it was way too crowded that it was difficult to get some breathing space, much more take decent photos. So I guess being the last batch to see it that day had its perks too.</div>
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Please excuse our faces. This is us trying not to get *literally* blown away by the snow storm</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Lastly, is it worth it to go?</i></span><br />
If we're being honest, the ticket to get to Jungfraujoch is too expensive for my liking, but overall, for me, it's totally worth it. The Jungfraujoch experience is a definite YES in my books! It's one of the top highlights of our Switzerland vacation for sure and an absolute once in a lifetime experience that we will treasure forever.<br />
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AizzingRhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10571037081163834969noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5961943744454961482.post-17711023987935927312019-08-06T01:15:00.000+04:002020-03-09T20:56:11.065+04:00One Day in St. Gallen and Heidiland, Switzerland<div style="text-align: justify;">
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One of the highlights of our recent trip to stunning Switzerland was definitely our visit to the city of <u>St. Gallen</u> and its neighboring town <u>Maienfeld</u> — more popularly referred to as <i>Heidiland</i>. Since we visited on a weekend, we were already expecting these touristy places to be extremely busy. But surprisingly, instead of pushing our way through lots of other tourists coming from all directions, we were so happy to discover how peaceful and incredibly low-key both of these places actually were.<br />
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<i><span style="color: #ea9999; font-size: large;">Our one day trip to St. Gallen and Maienfeld last June (with Zurich as our base) truly felt like the perfectly quiet and relaxing retreat that we both needed.</span></i></blockquote>
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After landing late in Zurich from Dubai, we decided to get an early night to rest so we'll have a lot of energy for our first Switzerland adventure. The very next morning, we hopped on the 10AM train from Zurich Flughafen station to spend the first half of our day in <u>St. Gallen</u>, a quaint little city in the northeastern side of Switzerland, which struck major fancy after we seeing the tearjerker rom-com <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Meet_Me_in_St._Gallen" target="_blank">Meet Me in St. Gallen</a> a couple of months ago.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Meet Me in St. Gallen</span><br />
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<u>St. Gallen</u> is only one hour away from Zurich. At first I was underwhelmed when we got out of the train station because it didn't seem much, but as we started walking further and further into its <u>Old Town</u>, discovering charming stoned alleyways lined with colorful storybook-worthy looking houses along the way, and seeing baroque architecture in every corner, that's when it suddenly dawned on us: <i>we're in for a special treat.</i></div>
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<a href="https://www.agoda.com/pages/agoda/default/DestinationSearchResult.aspx?pcs=1&cid=1753634&hl=en&city=68039&checkin=2019-09-19&checkout=2019-09-23&adults=3&children=0&rooms=1&los=4&sort=agodaRecommended" target="_blank">The best hotels in St. Gallen, Switzerland</a></div>
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As you walked around the St. Galler Bleichi district (the city’s shopping and business centre), it’s impossible not to spot this unique area called <u>Roter Platz</u> or the red carpet square of St. Gallen — a public lounge where they literally painted the town red. It’s the city’s initiative to encourage people to go out and enjoy the outdoors with its rubber benches, play area, and even a red molded sportscar. Not so into it to be honest because to me it sticks out like a sore thumb in the middle of the already charming landscape of St. Gallen, but atleast my husband thinks it’s cool. I’m guessing the red sportscar had something to do with it. :)<br />
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It was a Sunday when we went to St. Gallen, so a lot of the establishments were closed, but we were able to attend mass inside the famous <u>St. Gallen Cathedral</u> — a Roman Catholic church, which is actually a part of the <u>Abbey of St. Gall</u>, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The church service was in German so I didn't understand a single word (haha!), but my eyes feasted on the church’s pastel-colored interiors, intricate pillars, and its overall baroque design, which I could best describe as “classically chic”. The inside was surprisingly light, airy, and felt almost whimsical, which was unique and unlike most old churches we've visited before.<br />
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We also had a short visit inside the famous <u>Stiftsbibliothek</u> or the Abbey Library of St. Gall — a medieval monastic library considered as the oldest library in Switzerland and apparently houses over 160,000 volumes. Opening hours of the library is from 10am to 5pm and last admission is at 4:45pm. At the time of writing this post (August 2019), a single adult ticket to the Abbey Library costs CHF 12. Children under 16 years old can enter for free as long as they are accompanied by their parents.
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Unfortunately, we weren’t able to take pictures of the library interiors since it's not allowed, but it's reminiscent of those huge dreamy libraries you’d imagine only in fairy tales. It's any book dork's perfect haven for sure! :)</div>
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After downing a delicious cup of hot chocolate and some light desserts inside <u>Chocolaterie am Klosterplatz</u> — a small cafe just right across the cathedral, we boarded the next train to get to our next destination: Maienfeld.</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Meeting Heidi, A Girl of the Alps </span><br />
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There was a quick train change in Sargans station, but <u>Maienfeld</u> is only an hour train ride from St. Gallen. Train system in Switzerland is one of the most reliable and comfortable in the world, so commuting from one city to the next was relatively easy.<br />
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<a href="https://www.agoda.com/pages/agoda/default/DestinationSearchResult.aspx?pcs=1&cid=1753634&hl=en&city=16648&checkin=2019-09-19&checkout=2019-09-23&adults=3&children=0&rooms=1&los=4&sort=agodaRecommended" target="_blank">The best hotels around Maienfeld, Switzerland</a></div>
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Maienfeld is a compact and walkable municipality, most popularly known as the setting of Johanna Spyri's classic book "Heidi" — the very reason why we were there. It's actually the place that initiated everything about our entire trip to Switzerland and how I have always pictured Switzerland in my head throughout the years.</div>
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<i><span style="color: #ea9999; font-size: large;">Bubbly little Heidi, her supportive friend Peter, her grumpy but severely misunderstood Grandpa, and their herd of cutesy goats will always conjure some of the best memories of my childhood.</span></i></blockquote>
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At first we were supposed to ride the <u>Heidi Bus</u> (PostBus) from the station to get to <u>Heididorf</u>, but decided against it at the last minute, so we can explore more of Maienfeld on foot. The Heidi trail was easy to navigate from the station since they conveniently placed red signage that says "Heidiweg" and brown signage that says "Heididorf" which you can both follow to guide your walk.<br />
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We took our sweet time walking around and relishing the peaceful sounds of nature — past the old houses, beautiful expansive vineyards, cows, and lush greenery. Maienfeld looks incredibly tranquil and picturesque with the snow-capped Swiss Alps as its backdrop.<br />
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However, I almost forgot that I suffer from asthma and that I'm not at all in shape to do a full-on hike, so the supposed walking time from the train station to Heididorf of only 35 minutes became more than one hour for us because we needed to lie down on the grass a lot of times for me to literally catch my breath and not die. Luckily, there's a drinking fountain located in every corner and the town’s fresh air helped a lot in my ordeal.</div>
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It was a tragically comedic experience because we found ourselves crying and laughing at the same time when we finally reached Heididorf after an exhausting hike of what felt like a million years.
One of the local farmers even stopped feeding his cows to briefly check on me as he thought I passed out and needed to be sent to a hospital. Quite embarrassing for me, but what an absolutely sweet guy!<br />
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<u>One tip:</u> Don’t live a sedentary lifestyle and exercise! Don't be like me!</div>
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<u>Heididorf</u> is open from 10am to 5pm. Ticket costs CHF 13.90 each for adults, and CHF 3.90 for kids (aged 5 to 14 years). With the ticket, you get access to Heidi's Mountain Hut, the original Heidi house, and Johanna Spyris' Heidi world.<br />
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It's not much, but fans of the book would definitely enjoy reliving their childhood memories and being surrounded by nature. There is also a small gift shop that sells Heidi chocolates, books, and other souvenirs.<br />
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After exploring Heidi's house, we then resumed our hike and had an early dinner in nearby <a href="https://www.agoda.com/pages/agoda/default/DestinationSearchResult.aspx?pcs=1&cid=1753634&hl=en&selectedproperty=4472695&city=664951&checkin=2019-09-19&checkout=2019-09-23&adults=3&children=0&rooms=1&los=4" target="_blank">Heidihof Hotel and Restaurant</a>. We ordered some pasta and well-deserved scoops of ice cream (a highlight in any hiking trip for me!) while enjoying the view of the Alps as the sun sets.<br />
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But since we’re being honest, it's more like "while largely worrying on how I'd go down from the mountains," since there's obviously no way I can do it all over again on foot. To make matters worse, there was no Uber or busses available anymore that I even contemplated on checking in <a href="https://www.agoda.com/pages/agoda/default/DestinationSearchResult.aspx?pcs=1&cid=1753634&hl=en&selectedproperty=4472695&city=664951&checkin=2019-09-19&checkout=2019-09-23&adults=3&children=0&rooms=1&los=4" target="_blank">Heidihof hotel</a> to stay the night instead.</div>
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<a href="https://www.agoda.com/pages/agoda/default/DestinationSearchResult.aspx?pcs=1&cid=1753634&hl=en&selectedproperty=4472695&city=664951&checkin=2019-09-19&checkout=2019-09-23&adults=3&children=0&rooms=1&los=4" target="_blank">Book a room in Heidihof Hotel in Switzerland</a></div>
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Fortunately, the friendly servers of Heidihof were so nice to arrange a cab for us to go back to the train station. We paid CHF 20 for the cab and instead of dropping us in Maienfeld station, the nice driver suggested to drop us in Bad Ragaz station so we can board directly without having to change trains anymore to get back to Zurich. He also drove us around scenic routes and tried his best to share some interesting stories about Maienfeld and Bad Ragaz which really made taking the cab worth it.
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<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="color: #e06666; font-size: large;"><i>And if God doesn't answer them at once I shall know it's because He's planning something better for me... — Heidi</i></span></blockquote>
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Our one day itinerary to St. Gallen and Maienfeld in Switzerland was such an adventure and could pass as one of the most fulfilling daytrips we’ve ever taken together.<br />
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How about you? Do you also have travel bucketlist inspired by a movie or a book too?</div>
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<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjClAbN2qlOtvNLOyM1Y2dZRL2McLkvKw8j-wj57tm_uJbbkEy5n5T1NQZzXYRaraMCGm8zWHI73Parzqtb_ZXVJgmdsOM9vCiQWoRh7qdoKA9jjQMuCCaLs1zO3bjGE6pdE0ZsZsSJiSIq/s1600/icing+and+write+dubai+lifestyle+blog+signature.jpg" style="background-color: white; border: none; color: #ff91a2; font-family: georgia, utopia, "palatino linotype", palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; height: auto; letter-spacing: 0.5px; max-width: 100%; position: relative; text-align: center;" /></center>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5961943744454961482.post-92043113149131925892019-07-28T23:23:00.000+04:002020-03-10T10:53:02.431+04:00Where to see the Matterhorn in Zermatt with the best view<div style="text-align: justify;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgewhgTDx5T0ue8MdLTUEMphoA96-z9xr3oy61DigDCZTDJpUPpw7e_-BmamnZJytL4wsqC3dm_nmtyFBWBUEaa_CHs5myP0F7eUlN7NO16jbrx7VrT21lkD4lr1CB7-hyX2AlyHIcX2J4H/s1600/best+view+matterhorn+zermatt+switzerland" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgewhgTDx5T0ue8MdLTUEMphoA96-z9xr3oy61DigDCZTDJpUPpw7e_-BmamnZJytL4wsqC3dm_nmtyFBWBUEaa_CHs5myP0F7eUlN7NO16jbrx7VrT21lkD4lr1CB7-hyX2AlyHIcX2J4H/s1600/best+view+matterhorn+zermatt+switzerland" /></a></div>
The pyramid-shaped mountain printed outside every pack of Toblerone chocolate is actually Switzerland's famous <u>Matterhorn</u> <span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; text-align: right; white-space: nowrap;">—</span> one of the highest summits in the Alps and all over Europe. It also happens to be my favorite chocolate in the whole wide world, so I must say that my motivation to see the Matterhorn up close was pretty strong. In fact, to say that I was extremely excited to go to Zermatt last June was probably the understatement of the century. :) </div>
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We were based in Zurich, so we had to wake up extra early in order to catch the earliest train bound for Zermatt and have enough time to come back at night. Before boarding the train, we checked first the weather just to make sure that the Matterhorn won't be playing an awful game of hide-and-seek with us behind the thick clouds. It's a good thing that the town of Zermatt maintains a <a href="https://www.zermatt.ch/en/Webcams" target="_blank">neat website</a> with webcams and panorama livecams of Gornergrat and other mountain viewpoints in Zermatt. I highly recommend that you <a href="https://www.zermatt.ch/en/Webcams" target="_blank">check this out </a>first, so you'd know what to expect.</div>
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From Zurich, we changed trains in Visp to get to Zermatt. The journey took around 3 hours and 45 minutes in total, but the scenic views made the long trip totally worth it.</div>
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<a href="https://www.agoda.com/pages/agoda/default/DestinationSearchResult.aspx?pcs=1&cid=1753634&hl=en&city=16462&checkin=2019-09-19&checkout=2019-09-23&adults=3&children=0&rooms=1&los=4&sort=agodaRecommended" target="_blank">The best hotels in Zurich, Switzerland</a></div>
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<a href="https://www.agoda.com/pages/agoda/default/DestinationSearchResult.aspx?pcs=1&cid=1753634&hl=en&city=4498&checkin=2019-09-19&checkout=2019-09-23&adults=3&children=0&rooms=1&los=4" target="_blank">The best hotels in Zermatt, Switzerland</a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Train ride directions to see the Matterhorn with the best view </span></div>
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↠ From across Zermatt Train Station, go to Bahnhofplatz Zermatt and purchase your ticket. At the time of writing this (July 2019), return ticket costs CHF 38/each + 50% off if you have a Swiss Pass. </div>
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↠ Ride the train up to Gornergrat Bahn, which takes around 30 minutes. At the top, you will find Kulmhotel Gornergrat <span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; text-align: right; white-space: nowrap;">—</span> a three-star hotel that has two restaurants, a small shopping mall, and a beautiful Matterhorn viewpoint. </div>
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↠ On the way back down from Gornergrat station, you can also go down Rottenboden station, and walk 12 minutes to get down to Riffelsee, a stunning alpine lake above Zermatt town. From there, they say that you can see a picture-perfect reflection of the Matterhorn in the lake which looks absolutely breathtaking.</div>
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<i><span style="color: #ea9999; font-size: medium;">They say that it's an easy trail, but to be honest, since it was a downhill trail and the snow was super thick when we went there, it became a tad bit tricky for my non-existent trekking skills to handle. On top of that, we did not see any Matterhorn reflection at all since the lake was completely frozen. My advice? Be extra careful, wear proper boots, thread lightly, and make sure the lake is not frozen before you go there.</span></i></blockquote>
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↠ From Rottenboden, hop on the train again to head back down to Zermatt.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp6tCozKQZgaauwA9rOYwec2H-wM2JDbZED8O6v1pZU5RaU_rg3xPXqKcHRdrDn2pcRmIpT1qJeKHbhxF2wBD37QG5zgwMuvLhZY0vSL4mJDGfW7YAECKTcC54uXEGwQnthSPvl1zmPSRb/s1600/picture+perfect+matterhorn+peak+zermatt+snow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp6tCozKQZgaauwA9rOYwec2H-wM2JDbZED8O6v1pZU5RaU_rg3xPXqKcHRdrDn2pcRmIpT1qJeKHbhxF2wBD37QG5zgwMuvLhZY0vSL4mJDGfW7YAECKTcC54uXEGwQnthSPvl1zmPSRb/s1600/picture+perfect+matterhorn+peak+zermatt+snow.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs_MGr9MHfB5k-ODm5sz7V-C6F12I_4EE-3JazMiRJm-noNgrT3zYVnQDK7BtDCpbVutuq2FoovbePhVRS5jmZRKFK-luTR7Fd-nSljxQuBo3zXjZfdd5Sx6Ky__-Rh9fBzfaV58P97GPV/s1600/mount+toblerone+matterhorn+zermatt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="497" data-original-width="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs_MGr9MHfB5k-ODm5sz7V-C6F12I_4EE-3JazMiRJm-noNgrT3zYVnQDK7BtDCpbVutuq2FoovbePhVRS5jmZRKFK-luTR7Fd-nSljxQuBo3zXjZfdd5Sx6Ky__-Rh9fBzfaV58P97GPV/s1600/mount+toblerone+matterhorn+zermatt.jpg" /></a></div>
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<u style="text-align: justify;">One tip:</u><span style="text-align: justify;"> Make sure to bring a bar of Toblerone with you for a nice photo souvenir of the experience. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">How to avoid altitude sickness when going up to see the Matterhorn</span></div>
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The train ride up to see the Matterhorn is an amazing experience you will definitely cherish for the rest of your life. But although not everyone experiences it, altitude sickness is real, and can be a very serious thing. Remember that the Gornergrat railway station is the second highest railway and actually said to be the highest open-air railway in Europe, which has a whooping altitude of 3,089 meters or 10,135 feet. Since the air at the top is very thin, you really need to watch out for your oxygen level.<br />
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<u>So how to avoid altitude sickness?</u> Stay hydrated, don’t rush, don’t over-exert yourself, and do things as slowly as possible. But if you feel any difficulty breathing or feel some sort of light-headedness as you ascend, don’t panic. Just pause, sit down comfortably, pace your breathing, and relax. You will be fine. You just need some time to acclimatize or make your body get used to the high altitude.</div>
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Based on our experience, the second you start feeling uneasy, you just need to relax, purse your lips as if you are whistling, breathe in slowly through your mouth, and exhale. When you breathe in through your mouth with lips pursed, you’d instantly feel that amazing cool air passing through. We did this little exercise a number of times and we started feeling okay. I guess being with several groups of old tourists in their 50's and 60's looking so upbeat and happy was also a huge motivating factor for us to keep going.</div>
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<i><span style="color: #ea9999; font-size: large;">But I am no health expert and every experience is different. You know your body best. So don’t push it if you’re physically unfit or if you feel like the symptoms don’t get relieved. It’s always best to consult your physician first to be on the safe side.</span></i></blockquote>
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Our Zermatt itinerary was relatively simple and fuss-free. After our brief excursion up the mountains to see the Matterhorn up close, we went back down to explore the town of Zermatt a little bit, bought a couple of souvenirs, and had a traditional Swiss dinner in <a href="https://www.agoda.com/pages/agoda/default/DestinationSearchResult.aspx?pcs=1&cid=1753634&hl=en&selectedproperty=8931&city=4498&checkin=2019-09-19&checkout=2019-09-23&adults=3&children=0&rooms=1&los=4&sort=agodaRecommended" target="_blank">Monte Rosa Restaurant</a>. The cheese fondue tasted bitter for my liking, but with the freezing cold outside, it was definitely the warm treat that we needed.</div>
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<a href="https://www.agoda.com/pages/agoda/default/DestinationSearchResult.aspx?pcs=1&cid=1753634&hl=en&selectedproperty=8931&city=4498&checkin=2019-09-19&checkout=2019-09-23&adults=3&children=0&rooms=1&los=4&sort=agodaRecommended" target="_blank">Book a room in Monte Rosa Boutique Hotel in Zermatt, Switzerland</a></div>
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Zermatt is filled to the brim with tourists (mostly day-trippers), since we noticed the crowds started to dissipate as the day progressed. But would I recommend a longer stay in Zermatt? Definitely! Specially if you plan to do other activities such as hiking, para-gliding, and skiing. Would I come back to Zermatt in the future? In a heart beat!<br />
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They say that nights are particularly serene in Zermatt, so the idea of soaking up in a hot tub situated outside your hotel room, while marvelling at the view of the snow-dusted peak of the Matterhorn, sounds like the sweetest perfect escape.</div>
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<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjClAbN2qlOtvNLOyM1Y2dZRL2McLkvKw8j-wj57tm_uJbbkEy5n5T1NQZzXYRaraMCGm8zWHI73Parzqtb_ZXVJgmdsOM9vCiQWoRh7qdoKA9jjQMuCCaLs1zO3bjGE6pdE0ZsZsSJiSIq/s1600/icing+and+write+dubai+lifestyle+blog+signature.jpg" style="background-color: white; border: none; color: #ff91a2; font-family: georgia, utopia, 'palatino linotype', palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; height: auto; letter-spacing: 0.5px; max-width: 100%; position: relative; text-align: center;" /></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5961943744454961482.post-11265199635264970492019-05-31T22:51:00.001+04:002020-03-09T20:38:03.919+04:005 Travel Destinations to spend your Eid holiday<div style="text-align: justify;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4tf8nmm-Z0DUK01DfxUp5i1NG8apsQycrBLgng8U9B6oCjnqgglnPBags1_HuRG6vxFNGyaj3C5gephuCbJyXqUxkqK5-KVIx7z4ZS_ZlYlIPiP1VAGwJsQpJAdbeRJn6fRpAiyAq_sjs/s1600/walking+tour+of+marrakesh+morocco.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="424" data-original-width="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4tf8nmm-Z0DUK01DfxUp5i1NG8apsQycrBLgng8U9B6oCjnqgglnPBags1_HuRG6vxFNGyaj3C5gephuCbJyXqUxkqK5-KVIx7z4ZS_ZlYlIPiP1VAGwJsQpJAdbeRJn6fRpAiyAq_sjs/s1600/walking+tour+of+marrakesh+morocco.jpg" /></a></div>
We’re almost at the last chapter of Ramadan this year, and while I would definitely miss the shorter office timing and much more relaxed pace of things this past month, I cannot wait for the very long Eid holiday that’s just waiting right around the corner for all of us.<br />
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<span style="color: #e06666; font-size: large;"><i>Are you planning for a peaceful staycation or actually packing your bags to head out of town? </i></span></blockquote>
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Whether you intend to get that well-deserved break at home or overseas, here’s a nice little throwback to <u>five of our best travel adventures</u> for some inspiration. We’ve actually taken most of these fun trips during past Eid breaks and long weekends we’ve had over the years here in Dubai.</div>
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A lot of people I know are heading out to Bali in Indonesia right now for Eid, which isn’t surprising considering that it’s tagged as the world’s “number one go-to destination” at the moment (especially for millennials) and for good and obvious reasons. It’s a lush tropical paradise and every bit like the picture perfect spot to escape the city’s hustle and bustle for every beach bum and nature lover.</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Thailand</span></div>
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But just imagining the amount of crowd headed to the same direction as me is enough to faze my introvert self and cry for help, so why not turn to good ol’ Thailand for the same ‘feels’? On second thought, Thailand is another top destination for tourists as well, so perhaps there’s just really no escaping the crowd. But believe me, you’d still win either way. Besides, you can always opt to explore stunning places outside Bangkok instead for a much more quiet and soulful breather like Phuket, Ko Samui, Pattaya, Phi Phi Islands or maybe even my favorite Chiang Mai.</div>
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One more thing, the hospitality of Thai people is on another level. I love them to bits! Filipinos are still number one in this department though, so maybe they come second? :)</div>
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<a href="http://www.icingandwrite.com/2016/06/our-bangkok-thailand-adventure.html" target="_blank">TRAVEL DIARIES: You can read more about our trip to Thailand in this link</a></div>
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<i>Where we stayed in Bangkok: <a href="https://www.agoda.com/partners/partnersearch.aspx?pcs=1&cid=1753634&hl=en&hid=48490" target="_blank">Centre Point Silom</a></i></div>
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<i>How many hours is the flight from Dubai to Bangkok? Around 6 hours and 30 minutes if you are flying direct.</i></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Armenia</span></div>
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Still a favorite destination for UAE travellers for over two years now is Yerevan in Armenia. We booked a tour guide when we visited Armenia for the first time back in 2018 and thoroughly enjoyed the experience. </div>
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I love their wine, fresh food, and history. And the best part? Despite everything being pretty inexpensive, with all the sites and experiences their colorful country offers, you wouldn't feel like you scrimped on this escape at all. The precious memories we made here truly cost like a million bucks for me. It was one of the shortest trip we’ve ever taken together, but has got to be one of the most meaningful too.</div>
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<a href="http://www.icingandwrite.com/2018/04/travel-diaries-armenia.html" target="_blank">TRAVEL DIARIES: You can read more about our trip to Armenia in this link</a></div>
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<i>Where we stayed in Yerevan: <a href="https://www.agoda.com/partners/partnersearch.aspx?pcs=1&cid=1753634&hl=en&hid=106648" target="_blank">Armenia Marriott Hotel Yerevan</a> and <a href="https://www.agoda.com/partners/partnersearch.aspx?pcs=1&cid=1753634&hl=en&hid=821211" target="_blank">Hyatt Place Yerevan</a></i><br />
<i>How many hours is the flight from Dubai to Yerevan? Around 3 hours and 10 minutes if you are flying direct. </i></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">The Netherlands</span></div>
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Amsterdam was our first stop when we went to our first ever Euro trip back in 2017 and it’s still our most memorable and relaxing trip to date. While tourist landmarks like the famous Iamsterdam letters sign inside Museumplein have since been taken down and moved some place else, the many museums in the area (Van Gogh Museum is a personal favorite) and overall laid-back vibe of this city are more than enough for me to dream of eventually coming back. </div>
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The city of Amsterdam is actually trying its best to step back from promoting itself as a tourist destination. It's unfortunate how their lovely country and locals have taken quite a beating from mass tourism boom over the years. I still remember our passionate tour guide during the Amsterdam canal cruise who openly talked about how much they despise tourists who visit the city just to get wasted and trample on the city's peace, disrupting their quiet way of life. While I totally respect and understand where they’re coming from with this initiative, I still think that it’s one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever been to and Amsterdam (and its neighboring cities and countryside too) deserves more "quality" and respectful visitors.</div>
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<a href="http://www.icingandwrite.com/2018/08/travel-diaries-amsterdam.html#more" target="_blank">TRAVEL DIARIES: You can read more about our trip to Amsterdam in this link</a></div>
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<i>Where we stayed in Amsterdam: <a href="https://www.agoda.com/partners/partnersearch.aspx?pcs=1&cid=1753634&hl=en&hid=149471" target="_blank">Hotel Allure Amsterdam</a></i><br />
<i>How many hours is the flight from Dubai to Amsterdam? More or less 7 hours if you are flying direct. </i></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Georgia</span></div>
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Tbilisi would forever hold a special part of my heart because I have checked off a lot of firsts in this beautiful country back in 2013. My first snow, first birthday away from my family (hello independent woman!), and also officially the first time I was ever bitten by the travel bug. </div>
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My passion for adventures and discovering new places, culture, and experiences all started after spending a long weekend in Georgia. Their tagline “the city that loves you” is just so spot on. </div>
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Looks like a lot of things have already changed and improved since our trip to Georgia more than five years ago, so maybe it’s about time we come back?</div>
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<a href="http://www.icingandwrite.com/2015/07/snow-filled-tbilisi-night.html" target="_blank">TRAVEL DIARIES: You can read more about our trip to Georgia in this link</a></div>
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<i>Where we stayed in Tbilisi: <a href="https://www.agoda.com/partners/partnersearch.aspx?pcs=1&cid=1753634&hl=en&hid=870901" target="_blank">Tbilisi Marriott Hotel</a></i><br />
<i>How many hours is the flight from Dubai to Tbilisi? Around 3 hours and 30 minutes if you are flying direct.</i></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Morocco</span></div>
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Still the most exotic and exhilarating vacation we’ve ever taken was without a doubt our trip to Marakkesh in Morocco back in 2016 for Eid. Literally every night we spent there was a lively party like no other because we chose to stay right smack in the middle of Jemaa El-Fnaa, the main square of Marrakesh for both locals and tourists.</div>
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The vibe of Marakkesh is incredibly authentic and unlike anything we've experienced anywhere, which eventually translated to one uniquely amazing adventure for us that stayed with me even after so many years. I highly recommend that you come and experience it for yourself atleast once in your lifetime.</div>
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<a href="http://www.icingandwrite.com/2017/04/travel-diaries-marrakesh-morocco.html" target="_blank">TRAVEL DIARIES: You can read more about our trip to Marrakesh in this link</a></div>
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<i>Where we stayed in Marakkesh: <a href="https://www.agoda.com/partners/partnersearch.aspx?pcs=1&cid=1753634&hl=en&hid=338603" target="_blank">Riad Granvilier</a></i><br />
<i>How many hours is the flight from Dubai to Marrakesh? There are no direct flights to Marrakesh from Dubai, but a direct flight to its nearby city Casablanca takes a little over 8 hours. From there you can either fly, drive, or board a train to Marrakesh. Travel time from Casablanca would take between 1 to 4 hours depending on the transport you’d choose.</i></div>
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Enjoy the long holiday and hope we all come back inspired, recharged and ready for more adventures and challenges ahead.</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5961943744454961482.post-20216845701457333672019-05-28T23:39:00.000+04:002020-03-09T20:44:08.212+04:00A Love letter to the Eiffel Tower in Paris<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXH1L8e4FB94U00H4JMHkBgP_7ggwh_Y1xE-jzbwSftt3s_RPCFqJ0TKuKcqJHA5SGTo0FxVQ3evUc6ejIk1DSlTexMUydWY571OHBAmhBalvJgWmVuyulz0k-EACo4dc52Cr02CuNn_sf/s1600/dear+eiffel+tower+blog.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1440" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXH1L8e4FB94U00H4JMHkBgP_7ggwh_Y1xE-jzbwSftt3s_RPCFqJ0TKuKcqJHA5SGTo0FxVQ3evUc6ejIk1DSlTexMUydWY571OHBAmhBalvJgWmVuyulz0k-EACo4dc52Cr02CuNn_sf/s1600/dear+eiffel+tower+blog.JPG" /></a></div>
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Dear Eiffel Tower,<br />
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The sky was pitch black the first time we met, and to be quite honest, my inner twelve-year old was so disappointed and was already on the verge of throwing a massive fit. Yes, you were super tall and you were even sparkling with all those lights and all, but seeing you didn’t fill me with supposed <i>joie de vivre</i>. You weren’t the dreamy, brilliant, awe-inspiring and romantic structure I've always imagined you to be. I wanted more from you. I was expecting more.</div>
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<a name='more'></a>We came back the very next day, in high hopes that you’re going to transform yourself somehow, sweep me off my feet, and finally give justice to the magic that's been deeply ingrained by those romantic novels and Hollywood movies I have read and watched through the years. But sadly, I just stood there in front of you, feeling puzzled and pathetically underwhelmed. It didn't help too that an incoming storm was towering over you (pun intended) signalling us to hurry up and take cover. Even my forced smile in all the photos we took that day couldn’t hide its dismay. Once again you failed the little girl in me in a very big way.</div>
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So we went about our days and ticked off every list from our jam-packed itinerary, which I have carefully planned in my head decades ago. We were eating, shopping, and sightseeing our way around Paris and every moment became so memorable. Believe me, I tried to forget you. I really tried. We’ve managed to capture so many special moments and enjoy that charming Parisian life that everyone seemed to rave about, but that picture perfect 'Eiffel Tower' moment I created in my head from way back still continued to bother me like mad.</div>
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I would go back to our hotel room at the end of the day still yearning for “the dream”. It was like a chewed-up gum stuck under my favorite shoe or more like that scratchy feeling down my throat about to conjure a full-blown flu. I wanted to see you. I needed to see you again. Atleast one last time before we eventually fly back home.</div>
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Fortunately, my stellar of a husband was instantly game when I recommended a third and final visit. I had a feeling he was equally disappointed too and wanted to give you another shot so you could hopefully redeem yourself.</div>
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When we came back for you that day you just stood there, imposing as usual, but you didn’t change at all. You were the exact same metal fixture I saw the last time, but as I laid there in the grass staring at you and leaning against my husband’s back, I noticed an engagement photoshoot happening by the merry-go-round to your right. And in that quiet random moment, something slowly changed.</div>
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We giggled like kids watching as the cute couple struggled with their awkward poses. The photographer trying his best to hide his impatience and the toddlers <i>slash</i> onlookers on the side waiting for their turn to ride the merry-go-round. It was a chaotic moment, but beautiful nonetheless, and the couple’s sincere smiles have this certain <i>je ne sais quio </i>that set them apart from everyone and everything surrounding them. Those smiles spoke volume of love and the promise of a happily ever after. And because of that I finally understood why I was repeatedly feeling let down from the first moment I laid my eyes on you.</div>
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I shifted my gaze back at you and there you were again, the <i>Dame de Fer</i> that was once the recipient of hate from every French person, labelled as a major aesthetic blunder, but now towering over and above everything else finally looking brilliant as ever. You were so stunning that I thought I was about to cry.</div>
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<i><span style="color: #e06666; font-size: large;">So I guess it all boils down to perspective.</span></i></blockquote>
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I realized it was what I was feeling and who I was with that brought home all the clichés I was expecting from you. And in that moment of realization, you showed me that inherent magic in all its gloriousness. You became everything I have imagined you to be and more: the Eiffel Tower I have always dreamed of seeing since I was twelve.</div>
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My husband then asked me, “Happy?”</div>
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I just nodded my head, a bit teary-eyed, unable to utter a word.</div>
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“Now, please get up. We need to take some nice photos as souvenir before we go back home.”</div>
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This is definitely one of those “that time we saw the Eiffel Tower” story I’d tell our future kids and grandkids over and over again. Thank you for the memories. :)</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5961943744454961482.post-37946861445564922112019-05-28T22:14:00.000+04:002019-05-31T19:31:30.777+04:00Icing and Write wins Asian Lifestyle Blogs Award 2018<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Hello from the sweeping sand dunes of Dubai! What have you been up to lately? With Ramadan nearing its end this year, summer has already started to creep in. I can't believe that we're almost halfway done with 2019, so I know that this post is long overdue.<br />
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Yes, mercury is rising up fast in our corner of the world, but the love and support I received from all of you last year are warming up my heart even more. Won't be dying from heat stroke, but my heart is definitely exploding with gratitude for all of you. :)</div>
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<a name='more'></a>This is just a little appreciation post for the lovely team of top deals website <a href="https://coupon.co.th/" target="_blank">Coupon.Co Thailand</a> for having my humble space in the interwebs as winner of the <a href="https://coupon.co.th/awards/asian-lifestyle-blogs-award-2018/" target="_blank">Asian Lifestyle Blogs Award 2018</a>. It's really insane and to be quite honest, I still couldn't wrap my head around it! So cliché, I know, but just being nominated already means a lot to me. You guys are amazing! THANK YOU!</div>
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Thank you so much to everyone who voted for me and congratulations also to the other inspiring and lovely ladies who were nominated last year! :)</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5961943744454961482.post-83135281844397395092019-02-03T18:14:00.000+04:002020-03-10T14:36:21.960+04:00Our 2018 Adventure Highlights<div style="text-align: justify;">
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Happy New Year, everyone! I can’t believe 2018 is already over, and boy, what a year it has been! With all the discoveries and fun adventures we did together last year, it surely looks like 2019 has some pretty big shoes to fill. I feel like 2018 has become our best year yet and we're really excited to build from that as we move to another chapter in our lives.</div>
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<a name='more'></a>2017 was a real pain to be honest, and I remember that we really couldn't wait to wrap it up and to fill the next year with brand new memories. In fact, even before ringing in 2018, we already decided that we should try our best to discover the world together while we're still young, but without drilling a huge hole in our pockets of course. So last year, we saved up a ton and even skipped a vacation to the Philippines to make our travel goals possible. It's not at all comparable to the precious thing we've lost in 2017, but since travelling is something that has always given us joy, we felt like it's what we needed <span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; text-align: right; white-space: nowrap;">— </span>an escape or some sort of distraction <span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; text-align: right; white-space: nowrap;">—</span> to heal and gain a fresh perspective in life.<br />
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Fortunately, we've been blessed with so much opportunities to travel last year to stunningly rich countries we've never been to before. These trips brought us a lot of fun memories and amazing experiences which we will treasure for the rest of our lives, and I'd like to think that our many travels together have made us closer than ever too. :)<br />
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Here are some of the beautiful destinations we visited in 2018:</div>
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<b>Yerevan, Armenia</b></div>
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For our Easter break, we went to a short but meaningful trip to the <u>Pink City</u> of <a href="http://www.icingandwrite.com/2018/04/travel-diaries-armenia.html" target="_blank">Yerevan in Armenia</a>. Holy Week is a big thing in the Philippines. Not only is it a non-working holiday there, but majority of the Catholics also do "Visita Iglesia" <span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; text-align: right; white-space: nowrap;">— </span>a practice back home where devotees visit and pray to seven different churches from Maundy Thursday till Easter Sunday. As the first ever Christian nation, visiting Armenia really made our “Visita Iglesia" extra special with all its many churches and historically significant religious sites.<br />
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Another highlight of our trip? Experiencing snow again after so many years up the mountains of Aragats, which was such a refreshing treat. We seriously felt like kids again going on the most fabulous road trip ever!<br />
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<b>Dubai and Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates </b></div>
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We also enjoyed hosting some of our friends and families who visited Dubai last year. It somehow relieved our homesickness and have made us feel like wide-eyed tourists in this country all over again. Our close encounter with the <u>charming penguins of Ski Dubai in Mall of the Emirates</u> and the <u>sharks inside the Dubai Aquarium in The Dubai Mall</u> for the very first time, and also our multiple visits to the <u>Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi</u> were some of the highlights of our adventures.<br />
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<b>England and Scotland, United Kingdom</b></div>
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Probably the most expensive, but also the most fun was our UK vacation in June. We spent more than two weeks exploring the vibrant London scene, mysterious rocks of Stonehenge, Warner Brother's Studios, and also going on a fun weekend trip to Edinburgh in Scotland <span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; text-align: right; white-space: nowrap;">—</span> the birthplace of Harry Potter.<br />
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London easily became our best and most favorite discovery ever. This city totally captured our hearts with all its food markets, candy-colored houses, museums, lively pubs, stadiums, and musicals. There's so much to do and enjoy! Watching our first London West End show (Wicked) was definitely one of the highlights. It felt magical <span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; text-align: right; white-space: nowrap;">— </span>so magical that we even went back for a second visit to London in September which proved to be equally amazing. Planning to visit again once the renovation of the famous Big Ben is done, so it wouldn't be covered with scaffolding next time we see it.<br />
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<b>Istanbul, Turkey</b></div>
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One of the most utterly wonderful places we visited this year was Istanbul. It's so beautiful, there's just no words! We spent barely five days there in September, but it honestly felt so short and didn't give justice to the many things Istanbul can offer. I enjoyed staying in Ambassador Hotel, which was situated at the heart of Sultanahmet because we were just a few steps from Istanbul’s beautiful landmarks and must-see's like the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Basilica Ciscern, and Topkapi Palace.
Just a little bummed that we didn’t get to experience Capadoccia’s famous hot air balloons due to time constraints, but atleast we now have the perfect excuse to go back there in the future. Hopefully soon!<br />
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<b>Prague, Czech Republic</b></div>
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My birthday this year was nothing short of a fairy tale after celebrating it in Prague early this month. The authentic vibe of this bohemian city is truly on a league of its own! It's definitely one of the most picturesque cities we've ever visited. The timing of our trip couldn't be more perfect too because all the Christmas markets and celebrations were in full swing when we were there. Prague was so alive and insanely festive!<br />
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<b>Vienna, Austria</b></div>
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There's something so special about Vienna that just stays with you. It's been more than a month now since our visit, but I still find myself smiling silly whenever I think about our short trip to Vienna. This sophisticated and charming city set the bar high for us. It is beyond perfection with its exceptional mix of the old and new. I’m very grateful too that we got to meet and bond with some of my husband’s family who were so nice to tour us around Vienna. It made our final trip this year all the more special and meaningful.
When the thick snow fell during our last night in Vienna while we were exploring the charming streets of Stephansplatz, I knew right there and then that Vienna will forever be one of my favorite memories with my husband. It was an early white Christmas dream that came true, like one of those pretty tiny Christmas villages.</div>
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I’m not one to make plans, but I have a feeling that 2019 will be an even better year for us (I’m claiming it!). Just thinking about the many places in our travel goals are making me feel super excited already. Can't wait!</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Cheers to more travels and Happy New Year to all of us!</i></span></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5961943744454961482.post-31350129334611153582018-11-29T15:02:00.001+04:002020-03-10T14:38:12.100+04:00Our First Schengen Visa Application Experience in Dubai<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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To be very honest, the <u>Schengen visa application</u> procedure sounded too daunting for us before that we tried to avoid it as much as possible. But after exploring Asia for years and a magical <a href="http://www.icingandwrite.com/2017/04/travel-diaries-marrakesh-morocco.html" target="_blank">visit to Morocco back in 2016</a>, we were suddenly left to wonder what else could be there for us to discover beyond our comfort zone. At that point, it really felt like a European vacation was a natural progression for us. So last year we decided to finally apply for a Schengen visa for the very first time. Fortunately, after a grueling wait of almost two weeks, we got a positive stamp.<br />
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As a first timer, I had a million questions in my head all throughout the application period. I still remember how much painstaking research (which meant countless Googling) I did before getting that coveted visa, so I would like to share with you how our experience went. Maybe this post could help someone who's also in the process of applying for a Schengen visa in Dubai.</div>
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<a name='more'></a><blockquote class="tr_bq">
<u><b>Disclaimer:</b></u> <i><b>This, in no way, should serve as your sole basis or guide when applying for a Schengen visa.</b> I am merely sharing my own personal experience and while I do hope that this helps your application, please note that every experience is different and rules could change depending on where you're from and what date you are reading this.</i> <i><b>It's still best to get in touch with the Embassy directly or contact the authorized application center for proper advice and updated information.</b></i> <i>Good luck!</i></blockquote>
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For our first Schengen visa application, we decided to get it through <u>The Netherlands</u> since our first point of entry is <a href="http://www.icingandwrite.com/2018/08/travel-diaries-amsterdam.html" target="_blank">Amsterdam</a> and it's where we were planning to stay the longest. Two other friends were travelling with us at that time, so we lodged a group appointment with VFS Dubai online. Just for clarity, my husband and I are both Philippine-passport holders who currently hold a Dubai residence visa because of our jobs here in the UAE. </div>
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These were the documents we submitted at that time: </div>
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<li>Filled-out application form</li>
<li>Passport-sized photo with white background</li>
<li>Valid passport with UAE residence visa</li>
<li>Copy of our Emirates ID</li>
<li>Return flight tickets (we found a seat sale in KLM so our tickets cannot be cancelled or re-booked, which I honestly don't recommend. So make sure you reserve flights that are refundable without charges to be safe)</li>
<li>Hotel accommodation (secured from a travel agency which offered free cancellation)</li>
<li>Schengen travel insurance (also from a travel agency)</li>
<li>Detailed trip itinerary (which listed down what we plan to do in both Amsterdam and Paris)</li>
<li>Employment letter (signed and stamped non-objection letter from our company which also mentions length of employment, designation and our monthly salary)</li>
<li>Original three months bank statement (stamped by the bank)</li>
<li>Copy of our apartment's tenancy contract</li>
<li>Copy of our marriage certificate</li>
<li>Copy of my husband's car registration and driver's license</li>
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Here's the timeline of our first ever Schengen Visa Application in Dubai: </div>
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<li><b>August 3, 2017 </b><span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; letter-spacing: 0.5px; text-align: right; white-space: nowrap;">—</span> Visa application was submitted to VFS Dubai and forwarded to the Kingdom of Netherlands. They also captured our biometrics on site (fingerprints)</li>
<li><b>August 16, 2017 — </b>Visa application was received by VFS from The Kingdom of Netherlands</li>
<li><b>August 16, 2017 — </b>We're such eager beavers, so we collected our passports from VFS on the same day we received the SMS. Fortunately, our passports were stamped with a multiple-entry visa valid for three months </li>
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The procedure including the waiting time took roughly 13 days (including the weekend). It was exciting and very nerve racking and to be honest, I got so worried that I could barely sleep after we submitted our documents because we had non-refundable tickets. They say that for a first timer, our experience wasn't so bad and with such positive result, I couldn't agree more. I was so relieved that everything fell into place. :)</div>
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<b><i>UPDATE (November 2018): </i></b>We recently applied for a Schengen visa again, but this time from the country <u>Czech Republic</u> which was again processed through VFS Dubai. The documents we submitted were basically similar to what we submitted to The Netherlands last year.</div>
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Here's the timeline of our second Schengen Visa Application experience in Dubai:</div>
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<li><b>November 7, 2018 — </b>Visa application was submitted to VFS Dubai and forwarded to Czech Republic Embassy. They also captured our biometrics on site (fingerprints). However, the machine was unable to capture clear prints from both of my pinky fingers even after countless attempts. After 45 minutes and four VFS staff struggling to get my fingerprints, they gave up and eventually just wrote a note on my application that fingerprints are impossible to capture. Of course this freaked me out, but they assured me that these cases sometimes happen and it shouldn't be a ground for visa rejection. All I can do at that time was pray and hope for the best</li>
<li><b>November 8, 2018 </b><span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; letter-spacing: 0.5px; text-align: right; white-space: nowrap;">—</span> We received a text message that Visa application is under process at the Embassy of Czech Republic in Abu Dhabi</li>
<li><b>November 19, 2018 — </b>We received SMS notification that Visa application is ready for collection at VFS Dubai</li>
<li><b>November 19, 2018 — </b>Since I couldn't wait any longer and my anxiety was already getting the best of me, I decided to immediately visit VFS the same day I received the SMS and managed to collect our passports stamped with a multiple-entry visa valid for six months</li>
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This time around the entire procedure and waiting time lasted for around 12 days. I'm so glad that they've granted us a visa with a longer validity, so we can go back without any hassle in case we decide to revisit.
We've already been to <a href="http://www.icingandwrite.com/2018/08/travel-diaries-amsterdam.html" target="_blank">Amsterdam</a>, Antwerp, and Paris so far and I surely enjoyed and learned a lot during these trips.</div>
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Our trip to Europe was definitely one of the most memorable adventures we've ever taken together and I couldn't wait to explore and discover more.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Have you been to Europe or are you planning to go to Europe? Which European city do you dream to visit?</span></div>
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<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjClAbN2qlOtvNLOyM1Y2dZRL2McLkvKw8j-wj57tm_uJbbkEy5n5T1NQZzXYRaraMCGm8zWHI73Parzqtb_ZXVJgmdsOM9vCiQWoRh7qdoKA9jjQMuCCaLs1zO3bjGE6pdE0ZsZsSJiSIq/s1600/icing+and+write+dubai+lifestyle+blog+signature.jpg" style="background-color: white; border: none; color: #ff91a2; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; height: auto; letter-spacing: 0.5px; max-width: 100%; position: relative;" /></div>
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<b><u>Another update:</u></b></div>
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<i><b>"Is there a certain amount that I need to keep in my bank account to help in my Schengen visa application?"</b></i> </div>
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I've been getting this question a lot from all of you and my answer is NO. There's no certain amount required. But I do feel like having enough savings reflected on your bank statement should somehow work to your advantage. To be honest, the bank statements we submitted did not have a huge amount of money. So I guess more than your account balance, I think what's important is that you can justify the trip by proving you have a steady stream of income to finance your vacation and you intend to go back to your country once the trip is over. One tip I can suggest is to request for a bank statement once your salary is credited so atleast there's good money reflected on your statement when you apply. :)</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5961943744454961482.post-40507694406281181122018-09-30T12:46:00.003+04:002019-05-29T19:32:25.003+04:00Custom Star Map from Modern Map Art<div style="text-align: justify;">
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French novelist Gustave Flaubert probably said it best <span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; text-align: right; white-space: nowrap;">― </span>“Travel makes one modest. You see what a tiny place you occupy in the world,” and I couldn't agree more. The thing that I love most about traveling is the humility it gives you. When you go out for an adventure, you realize just how vast the world is and how insignificant your silly problems are. On top of that, I'd like to think that it has also deeply strengthened our bond as a couple.</div>
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Our love for adventure is probably the one thing that my husband and I enjoy doing together the most. We love to travel and explore new places because this is when we always manage to find our common ground. We might argue on the silliest things, but I especially enjoy debating with him over where to go next and when to plan our vacation.</div>
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">I’d like to think that out of the countless adventures we've experienced together as a couple, nothing still tops the day we decided to get married.</span></i></blockquote>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinvdghx5sZDnr2yaCiTS3dAiPqW3HZwVgslqyqadaVadq0P-889E7vpE4NaxAtePdbGmcFEhaU_l4mDGO6mFYfuPbQc1NGRgFOpcWL4zRDqw8uhU70yCqbRIAt-SbaoOeuXB_2d0Alp7m_/s1600/IMG_1122.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinvdghx5sZDnr2yaCiTS3dAiPqW3HZwVgslqyqadaVadq0P-889E7vpE4NaxAtePdbGmcFEhaU_l4mDGO6mFYfuPbQc1NGRgFOpcWL4zRDqw8uhU70yCqbRIAt-SbaoOeuXB_2d0Alp7m_/s640/IMG_1122.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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It was not a grand wedding at all, but I wouldn’t have wanted it any other way because all the people who matter where there to celebrate with us. And what better way to relive this very happy moment than with a custom star map of the night we got married? I discovered <a href="http://www.modernmapart.com/?rfsn=1834259.d9593a" target="_blank">Modern Map Art</a> online who prints stunning and incredibly detailed night sky at an exact time and place in history. It's perfect and I was instantly all for it!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHsCGgQN5wApp_PKVXKh-YApw3azQbDClAetocmxfrg-nQGxhJrhRzFjFYQvuj-T4SN48-6iQpgue5J_rLrcBDqmYyB1I3uiyxmi_eLV7Mym-qiN6J4jgCJKjR7Kld5RZwY2AAXTHyqe0o/s1600/best+custom+star+map+blog+review.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1230" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHsCGgQN5wApp_PKVXKh-YApw3azQbDClAetocmxfrg-nQGxhJrhRzFjFYQvuj-T4SN48-6iQpgue5J_rLrcBDqmYyB1I3uiyxmi_eLV7Mym-qiN6J4jgCJKjR7Kld5RZwY2AAXTHyqe0o/s640/best+custom+star+map+blog+review.jpg" width="492" /></a></center>
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I decided to select the biggest size they have available (go big or go home, right?) and finally found an inexpensive yet perfect frame the other day from Ikea. Now it looks absolutely gorgeous displayed in our living room wall. With my renewed love for art and documenting our travels with framed pictures, my gallery wall is really starting to take shape and has truly added personality to our humble home. It's such an inspiring space now!</div>
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You can check out Modern Map Art <a href="http://www.modernmapart.com/?rfsn=1834259.d9593a" target="_blank">here</a>. Aside from star maps, they also print quality country and city maps which can be a lovely and thoughtful gift as well for friends and family celebrating a special occasion like a wedding or anniversary.</div>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwNAOyJzUt7Va1C-WNGc1wvDUN0qir4tNKl5lmBUEwY8Rhqz21J8DwXkuRdro11XA4yfV5tGV7GF0FMUXXRfqvVagI0udmwro-aHjqlX0_Q_8c6uI9PVjA6LQ-ztR-KLU7MCt28wc5lxBn/s1600/icing+and+write+dubai+lifestyle+blog+signature.jpg" style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #222222; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; height: auto; letter-spacing: 0.5px; max-width: 100%;" />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5961943744454961482.post-51648096398354542732018-08-28T00:11:00.000+04:002020-03-09T20:41:37.368+04:00Spending Autumn in Amsterdam<div style="text-align: justify;">
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It's been months since we spent <u>autumn in Amsterdam</u>, but until now I could still remember those sharp pangs of despair hitting us hard the moment we realized it was time to go back home. Everything about our first trip to Amsterdam was totally bonkers (in a good way of course) and it sure is one of our most memorable vacations to date!<br />
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To say that I was feeling excited when we first landed in Schiphol Airport on that cold morning of September would be an understatement. I was also relieved, brimming with happiness, positive energy, and all sorts of nice. It was our very first time to visit Europe, but perhaps the amount of stress and agonizing wait we had to endure prior to this big trip also made the experience even more precious for us.</div>
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We spent four fun-filled days in Amsterdam trying our best to squeeze in as much activities as possible, and it was still not enough. So let me share with you the highlights of our trip and maybe this can somehow guide you too in case you're also planning to visit the land of superlatives anytime soon.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Where to stay</i></span></div>
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After quite a lengthy research, we finally decided to stay in <a href="https://www.agoda.com/partners/partnersearch.aspx?pcs=1&cid=1753634&hl=en&hid=149471" target="_blank">Hotel Allure</a> along Sarphatistraat. It's a pretty basic hotel, but the rooms are clean, have all the essentials, and it's in a quiet neighborhood that's also perfectly located across a tram, a train station, and a supermarket, which made everything so easy and accessible for us.<br />
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<a href="https://www.agoda.com/partners/partnersearch.aspx?pcs=1&cid=1753634&hl=en&hid=149471" target="_blank">Hotel Allure</a> is also walking distance from a small bakeshop called <u>Bakhuys</u> that became our morning go-to for a quick breakfast of freshly baked bread and pastries. </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Day 1. Hello Amsterdam</i></span></div>
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Our first order of business after checking in the hotel was <u>Dam Square</u>, the main town square and undoubtedly the perfect introduction to the city. </div>
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<u>One tip:</u> Stand in the middle of Dam Square to be surrounded by Amsterdam’s architectural all-stars: the Royal Palace of Amsterdam, Gothic Nieuwe Kerk, Madame Tussaud's Wax Museum, the World War II National Monument, Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky, and also the huge De Bijenkorf store. It's hard not to get impressed by these landmarks which perfectly showcase the intricacy and vitality of some of the most historical Gothic and Neoclassical buildings of the Netherlands. </div>
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This area is always bustling with people: mostly tourists, mimers and other street performers. Dam Square is also where you can see the most number of pigeons, which make for a great photo op! :)</div>
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After a bit of people-watching, we had dinner in <u>5&33</u> — a casual dining restaurant and bar located on the corner of Prins Hendrikkade and Martelaarsgrachtin Amsterdam Central. It's a little on the pricey side, but the stylish and upbeat vibe of the place and flavorful dishes (all meant for sharing by the way) more than made up for it. </div>
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Marlo was also celebrating his 33rd birthday at that time, so the name of the restaurant couldn't be more spot on. Their staff also gave us free wine when we told them about the occasion. Win! :)<br />
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We then capped off our first night walking around <u>Red Light District</u> just to sate our curiosity. I know that some people can get scandalized by this part of the city, and although I do not recommend it to be honest, it was still fascinating to witness. </div>
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<u>One tip:</u> It is absolutely forbidden to take photos around here, so if you don't want to get in trouble or pay an exorbitant amount of money, keep your cameras away while sightseeing around these parts, especially near the "display" windows.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Day 2. A Bit of Culture </i></span></div>
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We woke up extra early the next day to beat the crowd and fortunately managed to get decent photos in front of the famous "Iamsterdam" letters in <u>Museumplein,</u> which I did not expect at all considering how much tourists flock to this side everyday to take an obligatory photo. Considered as the cultural hub of the country, Museumplein is home to three of the major museums in Amsterdam: the Rijksmuseum, Stedelijk Museum of Modern Art, and of course Van Gogh Museum.<br />
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During the winter months, this huge rink behind us actually transforms into one gigantic ice rink. With the Iamsterdam letters and Rijksmuseum as its backdrop, it’s definitely one of the most picturesque ice rinks in the city. Super gorgeous for sure!</div>
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One of the main reasons why I've always wanted to go to Amsterdam was to visit <u>Van Gogh Museum</u>. We spent around two hours inside marveling over his paintings. I've always loved Van Gogh's brighter and more colorful paintings, but the darker and more melancholic pieces he painted during his early years as an artist when he was still based in The Netherlands struck me the most.<br />
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Part of our bucketlist was to also experience A'dam Lookout's <u>Over the Edge</u> swing — apparently the highest swing in Europe. It was a totally exhilarating ride and to be honest, if not for my husband's loud countdown while we were swinging to distract me, I don't think I would have survived that without peeing my pants. It was insane and I still can't believe we did it!</div>
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The Netherlands is the birthplace of the Heineken beer so we had to do the <u>Heineken Experienc</u>e, which turned out to be unexpectedly interesting. Not a beer fan myself, but the attraction was a nice way to cool down after an exhilirating A'dam lookout experience. Keywords to motivate anyone: <u>Free beer.</u> Enough said.<br />
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For dinner we checked out <u>Foodhallen</u> in Bellamyplein. It used to be a historical tram depot, but was renovated into a swanky food market possibly meant for hipsters and millennials judging by the decor and aesthetics.</div>
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<u>One tip:</u> Don't expect an easy and quiet dining experience after six on a weekday because it gets super jampacked. The grandma in me almost had a nervous breakdown with all the pushing and the noise. But why still go? It's the best place to go people-watching and sample a variety of both local and global cuisine.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Day 3 : A Day of Adventure</i></span></div>
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No trip to Amsterdam would be complete without experiencing the <u>Amsterdam canal cruise</u>. We bought tickets for an open-boat tour and boarded on the spot just right across Museumplein. The trip took about an hour to finish and aside from being educational, we got to see some parts of the city that we won't be able to discover on our own.<br />
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The <u>Anne Frank House</u> tour is my favorite out of this trip for a number of reasons. This touching and very emotional journey back in time is a real must-see when in Amsterdam.</div>
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<u>One tip:</u> Book your tickets months in advance because they get sold out pretty quickly. Also make sure that you arrive before your booked time slot in order to get in because the queue to get inside the house is really long.<br />
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While reading up reviews on the best places to eat in Amsterdam, we chanced upon <u>Pancake Bakery</u> and decided to have lunch there since it's only walking distance from the Anne Frank House. </div>
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The place has a very homely feel and their pancakes are like out of this world huge. We ordered their savory and sweet pancakes so we can sample both and truth be told, it's hard to choose a favorite because both are equally scrumptious. But more than the food and the ambiance, what truly stood out for me is their very friendly staff who went above and beyond to help us out. When one of them overheard that our battery's completely empty after taking a million photos during the cruise, they volunteered to charge our phones and power bank in their kitchen while we enjoyed our food. The waitress even recommended some places in Amsterdam for us to explore. :)<br />
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As expected, I have to admit that this trip was not without any hiccup. We ended up missing the bus going to the countryside to see windmills and flower fields because we were such slow eaters and even slower walkers. But like what I always tell my husband, it's bound to happen. I take comfort in the understanding that when one is in a very beautiful place such as Amsterdam, one tends to slow down his pace to get to take in and enjoy the moment more. So no room for regrets there.</div>
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As an alternative, we decided to check out <u>De Gooyer</u> instead, which was recommended by our guide from the canal cruise earlier. It's the tallest wooden windmill in the Netherlands and listed as a national monument. There's also a local pub in here called <u>Brouwerij t'Ij</u> where we enjoyed a round of great beer and sampled some cheese and Dutch sausages on the side.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Day 4 : Finale</i></span></div>
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I'd like to refer to our fourth and last day in Amsterdam as a <i>chilled-out finale</i>. Aside from buying small souvenirs for our family back home, we purposely didn't schedule any other activity so we can sleep in, walk around, and just relax before we head out to Belgium.</div>
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We had a light breakfast from a small kiosk called <u>Rembrandt Van Gogh</u> in Museumplein, shopped for souvenirs along Leidsestraat, and walked around the city center aimlessly while sipping hot chocolate and planning a brandnew itinerary for when we visit Amsterdam again in the near future. What can I say? This city will definitely make you crave for more.</div>
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<u>One last tip:</u> Get yourself a GVB multi-day ticket upon landing Schiphol Airport. We got a ticket that's valid for 3 days (or 72 hours) which costs around €17.50, a lot cheaper than buying single journey tickets and saved us so much time too from not having to queue every time we board a train. This ticket gives you unlimited travel on all GVB routes, regardless of distance, both day and night. It's very practical and only becomes valid the first time you check in. </div>
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<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
<i><span style="font-size: large;">Amsterdam was a dream, and damn how my heart wept when it was all over. </span></i></blockquote>
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I have read somewhere that <i>"it's better to see something once than hear about it a thousand times"</i> but as much as I want to say that visiting Amsterdam once in your life is enough, I just can't, because I don't think one visit can ever give justice to this very beautiful city. Planning to come back here for sure!</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">What's your favorite city?</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwNAOyJzUt7Va1C-WNGc1wvDUN0qir4tNKl5lmBUEwY8Rhqz21J8DwXkuRdro11XA4yfV5tGV7GF0FMUXXRfqvVagI0udmwro-aHjqlX0_Q_8c6uI9PVjA6LQ-ztR-KLU7MCt28wc5lxBn/s1600/icing+and+write+dubai+lifestyle+blog+signature.jpg" style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #222222; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; height: auto; letter-spacing: 0.5px; max-width: 100%; text-align: start;" /></span></div>
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Watch our noob attempt of an Amsterdam Vlog <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iMYwrvEgFWA" target="_blank">here</a>!</center>
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<br /><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/iMYwrvEgFWA" width="560"></iframe></center>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5961943744454961482.post-64351796023371582532018-04-17T23:02:00.004+04:002020-03-10T14:38:41.973+04:00Spending Holy Week in Armenia<div style="text-align: justify;">
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Armenia has always been on our wanderlust radar for years. I think it was after <a href="http://www.icingandwrite.com/2013/12/blessed.html" target="_blank">a memorable trip to its neighboring country Georgia in 2013</a>, when we actually started to set our sights on this former Soviet republic. Until now, it still boggles my mind how despite the many times we've attempted to visit Armenia before, none of our incessant planning and wishful thinking ever seemed to materialize. But here we are five years later, and I'm so glad to say that we finally did it. The best part? This trip to Armenia was every bit as beautiful as I have imagined it to be.</div>
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<a name='more'></a>When both our companies announced a long weekend in celebration of Easter, it was an instant ‘light bulb’ moment for us. There was no elaborate planning involved, no overthinking, no what if's and what could have been's this time around. My husband and I just talked about it one night (almost half-jokingly even), booked everything the very next morning, and just prayed for the best. I guess the Holy week also inspired us to finally make everything happen this time. Believed to be the first ever Christian nation, Armenia holds such an important part in the history of Christianity, which really makes this trip all the more meaningful for us more than anything.<br />
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Its capital Yerevan, also dubbed as <u>Pink City</u> due to the rose-colored tuff (volcanic rocks) used in majority of its buildings, is barely a three-hour flight from Dubai that it’s actually no surprise why it's voted as <a href="https://www.cntravellerme.com/content/12183-the-most-popular-destinations-for-uae-travellers" target="_blank">one of the most popular destinations for UAE travellers</a> last year.<br />
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It's also convenient that tourist visa for Philippine passport holders and a lot of other nationalities too is given upon arrival for as long as you have proper documentation and can present your return ticket and hotel booking confirmation. So that's definitely one less hassle for us to worry about.<br />
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We stayed in Armenia for three days and three nights exploring the city and the countryside as well. To be honest, I would have wanted to extend for two more days to cover more places, but I have to say that as it is, this short trip already became the perfect little breather and spontaneous adventure that we needed.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Where to stay</span></div>
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We checked in first at <a href="https://www.agoda.com/partners/partnersearch.aspx?cid=1753634&pcs=1&hl=en&hid=106648" target="_blank">Armenia Marriott Hotel</a> right in the middle of Republic Square for one night. But for the remaining days of our trip, we stayed in <a href="https://www.agoda.com/partners/partnersearch.aspx?cid=1753634&pcs=1&hl=en&hid=821211" target="_blank">Hyatt Place</a>, just a few steps from Marriott. Although a tad more inexpensive, we preferred Hyatt since the hotel was newer, had better facilities and more spacious rooms, manned by friendlier staff, and they offered free breakfast buffet too.<br />
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Hyatt Place is also located around Republic Square, the city's central town square surrounded by the country's most important buildings such as the National Gallery, History Museum, and government buildings, which obviously made visiting these landmarks a lot easier for us.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Where to eat</span><br />
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When it comes to gastronomical adventure, Armenian cuisine is not one to disappoint. Whether you're after cheap eats or fine dining, you will never run out of great options. We had our daily breakfast in the hotel, but made sure to sample their local dishes for lunch and dinner.<br />
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Their taverns or traditional restaurants serve not only a wide array of fantastic grilled meats, fresh fish, and tasty veggie dishes, but also a great hangout place to drink, catch live Armenian music, socialize, and enjoy the local vibes.<br />
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Our guide brought us to a local pub called <u>Aragast Cafe and Restaurant</u> for dinner in Yerevan, which she used to frequent back in college, and serves both local Armenian and Georgian food.<br />
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We also tried another restaurant just outside Garni temple that had a view of the temple, exotic decor, and quite the homey vibes. Its name was a bit too tricky for me to pronounce, so it didn't stick with me, but their grilled trout topped with pomegranate seeds deserves a clear thumbs up and definitely one of the best foods we've ever tried in Armenia.</div>
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While we were on the lookout for a nice rooftop restaurant with an overlooking view of the city, we ended up in <u>Montmartre Restaurant Cocktail Bar</u> on top of Paris Hotel, a 4-star hotel in downtown Yerevan and a mere 3-minute walk from our hotel. Montmartre had top-notched décor, cozy ambiance, attentive servers, and quality food (which was a nice blend of Italian, French and Armenian cuisines) that's absolutely perfect for an intimate early dinner. The staff was super nice too and they didn't mind even though I was constantly taking a million photos in their rooftop. :)</div>
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Armenia is one of the oldest wine-producing regions in the world, and my husband and I became instant fans. Their homemade wine has become a staple in our every meal all throughout this trip. I call it 'indulgence minus the guilt' because even the most fancy-schmancy bottle of flavorful Armenian wine in the supermarket, restaurant, or winery won't break the bank. Would you believe that a nice bottle can cost as low as US$1.50? Insane!<br />
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The price of food in Armenia, especially outside Yerevan, is generally affordable compared to Dubai and most places we've been to before, so every certified foodie will surely have a ball enjoying the local food scene.</div>
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<u>Important tip:</u> Be wary of restaurants who trick unknowing tourists with a “special menu” that more than doubles the price of the food. There are also local guides who take advantage of tourists by saying that the restaurant does not have an actual menu and would then force you to order the most expensive food items where they secretly earn commissions.</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Where to explore</span><br />
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Walking around Yerevan is such a visual treat. It was drizzling on the day we arrived, but the rain and nippy weather didn't hinder us from exploring the city. <u>Republic Square</u> boasts of impressive neoclassical architecture, rose-colored facade and charming aesthetics that translate beautifully in photos and in real life. The square looks extra vibrant at night with the lights and fountain that looks absolutely dreamy.</div>
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Colorful tulips which were in full bloom and surrounding every corner of the city during our stay added to the breathtaking allure of spring. It's funny because I initially thought those flowers were fake because they looked so perfect. Gorgeous cherry blossoms trees are blooming all over Armenia too!</div>
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It was Good Friday when we explored Yerevan, and felt blessed that one of the first places we got to visit there was the largest cathedral in Armenia – the <u>Saint Gregory the Illuminator Cathedral</u>, located along Tigran Mets Avenue in Kentron District.</div>
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Yerevan is one of the oldest cities in the world, but the city has gone through a lot of incredible transformations post-Soviet. Various statues and monuments in honor of their local artists and other notable Armenians can be seen all over the city.<br />
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The statue of <u>Mother Armenia</u> was erected to replace the statue of Joseph Stalin in Victory Park which overlooks the city. I particularly love how our guide describes her: "She offers good wine to those who come in peace, but a sharp sword to those who declare war." The monumental statue is a celebration of Armenia's victory after World War II and also symbolizes the nation's freedom and "peace through strength".</div>
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We went to Swan Lake Park, a manmade lake and popular events and recreation area where <a href="http://time.com/3818972/kanye-west-yerevan-armenia-concert-swan-lake-shut-down/" target="_blank">Kanye West had his "interesting" impromptu concert</a> three years ago. We then passed by the Opera House and also Lovers Park along Baghramyan Avenue.<br />
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<u>Yerevan Cascade</u>, a giant stairway structure built post-Soviet, has got to be among some of my favorites. You can actually get a picturesque view of the city once you get to the top. It is adjacent to a public park showcasing so many quirky and fascinating modern sculptures and statues.<br />
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To be honest, I was initially apprehensive to visit Tsitsernakaberd or the <u>Armenian Genocide Museum complex</u> which was dedicated to the victims of the holocaust, but we still decided to check it briefly. It's obviously one of the most heartbreaking chapters in Armenian history, and I really believe that the country has a lot more beautiful places and amazing experiences to offer beyond the genocide. I did find the visit interesting and I think that visiting the memorial site is not only a sign of respect, but also gives one a better perspective and understanding of Armenia's cause and all the lessons that the holocaust is trying to impart to the rest of the world.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Beyond Pink City</span><br />
We also went on a full day tour to the countryside to visit <u>Geghard Monastery</u> or Geghardavank, a medieval World Heritage Site in Kotayk built in 1215 and founded by Saint Gregory the Illuminator. Geghardavank which literally translates to "Monastery of Spears," is said to be named after the spear that wounded Jesus Christ during the crucifixion. The spear itself was believed to be brought to Armenia by Saint Jude.<br />
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Those who follow the Christian faith would find it amazing that a sacred spring inside a cave can actually be found inside the monastery.<br />
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A bit of drive after Geghard was the <u>Temple of Garni</u>, one of the oldest and probably most visited pre-Christian structures in Armenia. It was supposed to be built around the 1st century AD and was a place of worship to the god of the sun. Historical accounts on this ancient Greco-Roman structure were very fascinating to hear, and the scenic views surrounding the temple made the visit worth it.<br />
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<u>One tip:</u> You can visit Garni every last Saturday of the month if you want free access. We visited on March 31st which also happened to be a Saturday and was surprised to hear about this.</div>
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We dropped by <u>Armenian Alphabet Monument</u> as well on our way to Mount Aragats. The huge blocks of stone letters were set up near the final resting place of the man who created their alphabet, Mesrop Mashtots, in Artashavan.<br />
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I honestly couldn't remember the last time we experienced snow prior to this trip, so we decided to drive all the way up Mount Aragats for a bit of fun in the snow. The sun was about to set when we reached the top, so I think we spent only around thirty minutes and eventually headed back to our hotel in Yerevan.<br />
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Our trip to Armenia was undeniably the most spontaneous adventures we’ve ever had that it almost scared me in the beginning. It was definitely <u>spur of the moment</u> in every sense of the word, but I'm more than happy that we managed to pull it all off. Yes, there were so many surprising discoveries and unexpected hurdles, but at the end of the day, these are the things that ultimately make life a lot more interesting and exciting.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Have you been to Armenia?</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">What's on your next travel destination </span><span style="font-size: large;">list?</span></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5961943744454961482.post-54224401901889781082018-04-16T16:17:00.001+04:002019-05-28T22:53:51.995+04:00Icing and Write is nominated for Asian Lifestyle Blogs Award 2018<div style="text-align: justify;">
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I was never a fan of Mondays but looks like that is about to change with today's piece of great news. Today I'm absolutely thrilled to share that my little place here in the interwebs, <a href="http://www.icingandwrite.com/" target="_blank">Icing and Write</a>, has recently been nominated for the <a href="https://coupon.co.th/awards/asian-lifestyle-blogs-award-2018/" target="_blank">Asian Lifestyle Blog Award 2018</a>.</div>
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<a name='more'></a>This is totally unexpected, but I am beyond grateful and also honored to be nominated alongside other amazing and inspiring bloggers from all over Asia.</div>
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<u>Asian Lifestyle Blogs Award 2018</u> is set up as a voting competition, which means that people decide which blogger will receive the largest prize. I know it's a long shot, but your votes will really mean the world to me. Every vote counts! :)</div>
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Please click on the below banner or head over to <a href="https://coupon.co.th/awards/asian-lifestyle-blogs-award-2018/" target="_blank">this link</a> to vote for me and spread the word out. The voting ends at 12:00 PM on 24 May 2018.</div>
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Thanks everyone and I wish your week is off to a great start too just like mine did!<br />
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwNAOyJzUt7Va1C-WNGc1wvDUN0qir4tNKl5lmBUEwY8Rhqz21J8DwXkuRdro11XA4yfV5tGV7GF0FMUXXRfqvVagI0udmwro-aHjqlX0_Q_8c6uI9PVjA6LQ-ztR-KLU7MCt28wc5lxBn/s1600/icing+and+write+dubai+lifestyle+blog+signature.jpg" />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5961943744454961482.post-37414879355861086742018-01-28T22:16:00.005+04:002020-03-09T17:55:16.019+04:00A Complete Guide to a Desert Safari Experience in Dubai<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcqy-1LfNgPDtKN85AMSdA_xjsUYL8nDnFwagOSv25jfeAXEgzJ5UTA6EsiM1JOoiBSV3OZ9htQfI6X0ekTTAWg28XFSGE05j6dAFSM0gyzcbqQ_LRT9hmZnjFeU5YK_a_GIj_XBGlgjLL/s1600/best+pose+sand+dune+backdrop.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="953" data-original-width="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcqy-1LfNgPDtKN85AMSdA_xjsUYL8nDnFwagOSv25jfeAXEgzJ5UTA6EsiM1JOoiBSV3OZ9htQfI6X0ekTTAWg28XFSGE05j6dAFSM0gyzcbqQ_LRT9hmZnjFeU5YK_a_GIj_XBGlgjLL/s1600/best+pose+sand+dune+backdrop.jpg" /></a></div>
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Every visit to Dubai will never be complete without a <u>Desert Safari experience</u>. From an exhilarating dune bashing ride and that obligatory photo with a sweeping sand dune backdrop, to riding a camel and watching restless Tanura and belly dancers as you drink your third cup of hot tea, it's really one of those top touristy things you just have to do when in Dubai.
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In our over seven years here in Dubai, I already lost count how many desert safaris we have gone to because every year there would be atleast one friend from back home who would come and visit us. My husband and I are huge fans of the weekend anyway, so if the desert safari is happening on our day off, it really takes a lot of will power for us to say no. It's always fun, and ‘never say no to a fun-filled experience’ has always been our life’s mantra.I have learned quite a few things and some lessons too (sometimes even the hard way) over those years that we've been going on desert safaris with family and friends. So here are some tips and tricks that I hope would help you guys to make sure that you will have a fun and memorable Dubai Desert Safari experience.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtMQjWJG8cQHbIJ1XwkP-fA4rOA7EHrcFfZC9kTGN9gFSNrY5I8OpWE3H5cmHLRbSaX8EuM0o1xnAkk56P8tQ9B7fljR0KN-W1iv9P0pNveoqasFHoDwxQU9VsPunOAL0_ucbQzFfZBa8t/s1600/dubai+desert+safari+review.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="430" data-original-width="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtMQjWJG8cQHbIJ1XwkP-fA4rOA7EHrcFfZC9kTGN9gFSNrY5I8OpWE3H5cmHLRbSaX8EuM0o1xnAkk56P8tQ9B7fljR0KN-W1iv9P0pNveoqasFHoDwxQU9VsPunOAL0_ucbQzFfZBa8t/s1600/dubai+desert+safari+review.jpg" /></a><span style="font-size: large;">Choose a reliable tour guide</span><u></u></div>
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There are a lot of travel agencies and tour operators who offer Dubai Desert Safari tour services at different price points. I know that it’s very easy to opt for the cheapest tour, but you really have to be smart about it as cheapest doesn't always translate to quality and expensive doesn't always mean the best. Sadly, I have learned this thing the hard way.</div>
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<u>One important tip:</u> Always read and understand the fine print of your booking. A couple of years ago, we paid extra for an exclusive VIP tour after calling up the agency and made to believe that our group will have the van all to ourselves. However, after picking us up from our place, we were shocked to discover that there were going to be other people with us too on the same van but what’s worse was that we were even made to wait for almost an hour because the other group came down late. The stressful complaining and confrontations we had with the tour operator that followed after almost ruined the entire trip for us.<u></u><u></u>
Also, be wary of those tour operators who offer Desert Safari services at dirt-cheap prices. You can find these ‘too good to be true’ trap tours from so many couponing or discount websites.
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The keyword here to avoid getting duped is RESEARCH. Do your research about the company, call up, ask around, and read reviews online: lots and lots of it. Unless you personally know and trust the person who's written a positive review about a particular company or tour service, it's not enough that you read only one or two reviews before booking.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Planning is a friend</span><br />
Most desert safari tours are being booked online for its convenience and because of the many promotional discounts available online. But before you finalize a purchase, call and check available dates with the company first. It’s actually much better if you could also email them to make sure that you have confirmation in writing and that the date is aligned with your itinerary. This will avoid last-minute surprises and will help in processing refunds in case the tour didn’t happen according to what was confirmed. <u></u><u></u> </div>
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Last December, I made the mistake of booking without calling first. As a result of that carelessness, we ended up going on the desert safari a mere two days before my mom and brother’s flight back to Manila because it was the only date the company had open. That was a close one, and really made me realize that planning ahead is necessary to avoid hiccups in your itinerary.<u></u> </div>
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Don’t forget to check the weather forecast too and schedule your tour when the weather is just right. You wouldn’t want to go on a desert safari when it’s scorching hot outside or even when you know you’re not only going to freeze your butt off but also be literally eating dust because of the sandstorms. Sandstorms may look super badass in the movies, but trust me, they’re not very pretty in real life.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWWEXDviWUxAhBJfPkFhNJZA1UcZdpI1JAu171Tt9yek98qoX6XfawjbTA8edoQIFVCsw_UXRYUeOKVOWeHReqPZBAQM1MzbHThAcpK7OWJspXgzLZ6hPE2GTjIAkXmtno2_kTNY01UPhy/s1600/camp+site+dubai+desert+safari.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: justify;"><img border="0" data-original-height="430" data-original-width="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWWEXDviWUxAhBJfPkFhNJZA1UcZdpI1JAu171Tt9yek98qoX6XfawjbTA8edoQIFVCsw_UXRYUeOKVOWeHReqPZBAQM1MzbHThAcpK7OWJspXgzLZ6hPE2GTjIAkXmtno2_kTNY01UPhy/s1600/camp+site+dubai+desert+safari.jpg" /></a><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Inform ahead</span><br />
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It is really important that you call up and inform your guide about your tour group’s details and special needs before the start of the tour for them to know what to expect and in order to manage your expectations as well. This would give your tour guide enough time to prepare, sort out questions, and avoid issues or any untoward incident as much as possible. This is highly advisable especially when you’re going on a desert safari with an elderly, small children, or those with special needs.<u></u><u></u> </div>
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There was this one time when we went on a desert safari with our family’s friends who were both senior citizens. We specifically instructed our tour guide that we need to skip the dune bashing ride and go straight to the camp site instead as our friends might not be in the perfect condition for the experience. However, the guide transferred us to a separate vehicle and totally forgot to relay the information to the new driver. Of course the clueless driver started driving like mad thinking we were game. It took us a dreadful five minutes and a lot of screaming to clearly explain to him <i>(P.S. The driver understood very little English by the way)</i> that we cannot proceed with the dune bashing anymore. We got so worried, but fortunately, our elderly companions though a bit shaken by the experience, were still fine. I think I was the one who almost had a heart attack because of that misunderstanding. <i>So not cool.</i><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT7BCY7aQFYNhIPsh04pUViuzkEU1G4_dDw1wmf_bv-3JmUsGcNEd9E_-BTKuROpihCbZqwmuX1qHiJPMNqfXZVcnQmgRD-aChUwwjRi6zIKoct-ZeDVhb5rW_oGJ-e6kPMrPnxm9gJMAH/s1600/snacks+dubai+desert+safari.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT7BCY7aQFYNhIPsh04pUViuzkEU1G4_dDw1wmf_bv-3JmUsGcNEd9E_-BTKuROpihCbZqwmuX1qHiJPMNqfXZVcnQmgRD-aChUwwjRi6zIKoct-ZeDVhb5rW_oGJ-e6kPMrPnxm9gJMAH/s1600/snacks+dubai+desert+safari.jpg" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj-zS1m-kCDqKBielOZcJKlMZuNu0N-PXK_FJhDbC7qhbqC3P9PvxViSbpPAwWPhcKL8Se2hQigaSJxywBqnDRWEVD4JuBKKJMaupqvvjF2BvOjhQHgbVRW_OrODBze74ZyPC2R5X8iAgw/s1600/arabic+sweets+served+in+dubai+desert+safari.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="430" data-original-width="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj-zS1m-kCDqKBielOZcJKlMZuNu0N-PXK_FJhDbC7qhbqC3P9PvxViSbpPAwWPhcKL8Se2hQigaSJxywBqnDRWEVD4JuBKKJMaupqvvjF2BvOjhQHgbVRW_OrODBze74ZyPC2R5X8iAgw/s1600/arabic+sweets+served+in+dubai+desert+safari.jpg" /></a><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Bring snacks with you </span><br />
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After you’re driven to the camp site, you have to take note that food is not always served right away. Most often than not, it would take an hour or two before it’s served and you even need to line up for food and drinks. Your patience can really be tested and with the long waiting time, it’s going to be so easy to turn from <u>hungry to hANGRY</u> real fast. Believe me when I say that nothing good ever comes out of that awful transition.<br />
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My advice: <i>Come prepared</i>. Pack some light snacks with you like biscuits, fruits or chocolates to keep everyone sane while waiting for the buffet. Don’t forget to also bring a bottle of water to stay hydrated. You will thank me later. You’re welcome.<u></u><u></u> </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Say cheese without breaking the bank </span></div>
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Majority of Emirati males wear a <u>keffiyeh</u> - a traditional cotton scarf worn over their heads. These are sold in the camp site at around 25 to 30 dirhams each in various colors and can really be a nice souvenir from the experience. </div>
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<u>One tip:</u> Instead of going straight to the booth who sells the scarves, wait for the vendors to visit your table. Oftentimes, they offer the scarves at a discounted price and they could even easily give in to your haggling. So instead of paying full price, you only shell out around 15 to 20 dirhams.
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzQB0aKYsZndabepRV1l2cvo10IrYqMQD14lbUBjljusNvdnAbkYBj4hQ6-cZxB7RsdkCZfDuHtVDHj09hPOGNnlaSkxIm5QeK-ja3XJ2CvtQSLnYjiEqf_oSUMEeQXsyMYN1V5y8Dp1gS/s1600/keffiyeh+emirati+dubai.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="481" data-original-width="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzQB0aKYsZndabepRV1l2cvo10IrYqMQD14lbUBjljusNvdnAbkYBj4hQ6-cZxB7RsdkCZfDuHtVDHj09hPOGNnlaSkxIm5QeK-ja3XJ2CvtQSLnYjiEqf_oSUMEeQXsyMYN1V5y8Dp1gS/s1600/keffiyeh+emirati+dubai.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaycyh7HFs_o3AcvEWSsKDWzXRoKgXndXWSFz5UjMJ_uE7mdp0UhX4zJflwwDgSyvYsbGd5Kww993-2OQYoO0_4CudK3hU6Ax06PWNN6u_ppRGKrOwZvRxSf1NRXx5Gx9XeRi_ock49i97/s1600/camel+ride+dubai+desert+safari.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="505" data-original-width="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaycyh7HFs_o3AcvEWSsKDWzXRoKgXndXWSFz5UjMJ_uE7mdp0UhX4zJflwwDgSyvYsbGd5Kww993-2OQYoO0_4CudK3hU6Ax06PWNN6u_ppRGKrOwZvRxSf1NRXx5Gx9XeRi_ock49i97/s1600/camel+ride+dubai+desert+safari.jpg" /></a></div>
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What’s a desert safari experience without a cool photo riding a camel to add to your imaginary swag bag, right? If you are anything like me who loves documenting her adventures and enjoys taking photos for posterity’s sake, you need to write this one down.<u></u><u></u>
Don’t fall for those professional on-site photographers who charge an arm and a leg for a not so flattering photo. </div>
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If you have the money and you look gorgeously happy on the photo, why not? Go ahead. I won’t take it against you. But if you want to be practical and make sure that you get a winning shot in your best angle, just lean on a friend. I recommend that you guys split up and ride the camel in separate groups so you and your friends can take turns in taking each other’s photos. If you don’t have talented friends and you really want to have some photos as a souvenir, then come in loaded because you will surely splurge some serious cash.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA4ai7OQ8R5TOaqi1srvEIYVJYRP7j6Do9D98EQvJZncpeZUAP-WlbHsGF7-bSh2dcyXe8j-5Qgq8tmaBueEnzRAA52T-DfMEiiOAQnV3W0CyjwafAiujiJOWD1l4-EdrbAF4NJubVu2gx/s1600/belly+dancer+dubai+desert+safari.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="507" data-original-width="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA4ai7OQ8R5TOaqi1srvEIYVJYRP7j6Do9D98EQvJZncpeZUAP-WlbHsGF7-bSh2dcyXe8j-5Qgq8tmaBueEnzRAA52T-DfMEiiOAQnV3W0CyjwafAiujiJOWD1l4-EdrbAF4NJubVu2gx/s1600/belly+dancer+dubai+desert+safari.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaqc1Hkt0U9zWIFaFqpKfFVRmIP8bWfipNfYPBLMTXCrXMCWlPDaGyhOgvK9g0CRpMbwig0tlObjR2kuN6QaRExsPi3YLnZGtpqzqGkIejMdBbInhTTKL54A9P3r_xH0X1M47GsPpviQTX/s1600/dubai+desert+safari+sand+dune+blog.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1265" data-original-width="1600" height="504" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaqc1Hkt0U9zWIFaFqpKfFVRmIP8bWfipNfYPBLMTXCrXMCWlPDaGyhOgvK9g0CRpMbwig0tlObjR2kuN6QaRExsPi3YLnZGtpqzqGkIejMdBbInhTTKL54A9P3r_xH0X1M47GsPpviQTX/s640/dubai+desert+safari+sand+dune+blog.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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But you know what? Scratch that entire previous paragraph and take this advice to heart instead: ‘BE IN THE MOMENT’. You will enjoy more when you’re not constantly worried about looking good and documenting everything. Photos are nice but you actually don’t need them to have a great time.<br />
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My point is: having a fun-loving and ever so game attitude and bringing wonderful friends with you to share the good and the bad are more than enough to make Desert Safari in Dubai an experience that’s totally one for the books.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Have you ever been to Dubai before and experienced going on a Desert Safari? How was it? </span></div>
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By the way, how cool is it that my little slice of the interwebs here in <a href="http://www.icingandwrite.com/" target="_blank">Icing & Write</a> has been selected by <a href="https://blog.feedspot.com/dubai_lifestyle_blogs/" target="_blank">Feedspot</a> as one of the <u>Top 50 Dubai Lifestyle Blogs</u> on the web? I just read their email the other day and I still couldn't believe it. So honored! Thank you, Feedspot team! :)<br />
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<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwNAOyJzUt7Va1C-WNGc1wvDUN0qir4tNKl5lmBUEwY8Rhqz21J8DwXkuRdro11XA4yfV5tGV7GF0FMUXXRfqvVagI0udmwro-aHjqlX0_Q_8c6uI9PVjA6LQ-ztR-KLU7MCt28wc5lxBn/s1600/icing+and+write+dubai+lifestyle+blog+signature.jpg" style="background-color: white; border: none; color: #ff91a2; font-size: 16px; height: auto; letter-spacing: 0.5px; max-width: 100%; position: relative; text-align: center;" />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5961943744454961482.post-56197421516461832152017-08-06T00:31:00.001+04:002019-05-29T00:28:31.362+04:00Product Review: Maybelline Fit Me Anti Shine Foundation Stick<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3hVdTx6gNruDOXTerJ_xS4rUahwgSl6SXfNJb96XYCMKZ6e7-Gj52MBsdOnYpv3pvRiEH6PAxMxpVVXKVSe6jQ3v74NWomRpjZVE0sLgXWpWeEfxY4bS4dxnuLAOTqIEhFlXC4EIBYumt/s1600/maybelline+fit+me+foundation+stick+product+review+dubai.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="492" data-original-width="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3hVdTx6gNruDOXTerJ_xS4rUahwgSl6SXfNJb96XYCMKZ6e7-Gj52MBsdOnYpv3pvRiEH6PAxMxpVVXKVSe6jQ3v74NWomRpjZVE0sLgXWpWeEfxY4bS4dxnuLAOTqIEhFlXC4EIBYumt/s1600/maybelline+fit+me+foundation+stick+product+review+dubai.jpg" /></a></div>
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When I ran out of my favorite Maybelline Dream BB Fresh couple of months ago, I rediscovered a <u>Maybelline Fit Me Anti Shine Foundation Stick</u> still unopened from the bottom pile of my makeup drawer. Randomly picked this out on a 50% discount ages ago from Carrefour and totally forgot about its existence, and I had no clue at all how surprisingly good this product is!</div>
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<span style="text-align: justify;">This is like a BB cream, with better coverage, and minus all the mess. This foundation is perfect for those days you want to strut a flawless face, but without looking too made up. It incredibly hides blemishes, with your skin still looking like skin. And since this is from the drugstore, the price tag of the Maybelline Fit Me Anti Shine Foundation Stick is a lot friendlier compared to other foundations. It actually retails for just around 61 Dirhams. Win! </span><br />
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The product itself has this so-called anti-shine powder core in the middle which claims to instantly dissolve excess oil, so it blends into a natural matte finish.
While this stick foundation is best suited for oily skin, I think those with dry skin can still use this with just a little prep of moisturizer or a hydrating primer underneath. Coverage can be built up to a medium and the product amazingly feels lightweight on the skin. </div>
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Maybelline recommends to just use your fingertips to blend this foundation, but I still prefer using my multi-purpose and cutesy <a href="https://www.virginmegastore.ae/en/fashion-beauty---women/beauty/brushes-applicators/lottie-kabuki-babe-brush/p/651633" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Kabuki Babe Brush</a> to achieve better coverage. Using a damp sponge is okay too if you want to achieve a super natural look and when you don't mind a more sheered out finish. Whatever floats your boat of course. :)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKTM_i5By8rFEr0TFtHXHGLqcWu4BZJU8IWFLxiJisf65JITGWp42RuKDSlwc6N80-66EM85iP1ZYmiFqYTURPOILdpA3GE3kbPOl0NGH8oK_JRMLKLLBl2WUij-VWGMcecoEAj3fF0bpl/s1600/maybelline+fit+me+anti-shine+foundation+stick.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="394" data-original-width="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKTM_i5By8rFEr0TFtHXHGLqcWu4BZJU8IWFLxiJisf65JITGWp42RuKDSlwc6N80-66EM85iP1ZYmiFqYTURPOILdpA3GE3kbPOl0NGH8oK_JRMLKLLBl2WUij-VWGMcecoEAj3fF0bpl/s1600/maybelline+fit+me+anti-shine+foundation+stick.jpg" /></a></div>
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The Natural Beige shade is perfect for my Pinay skin tone and they also have a good range of shades available for this foundation to fit a variety of skin tone. Although in my own experience, stock availability might be an issue as I struggled to find a new one from stores. It's also pretty long-wearing, and that's saying a lot considering how cruel Dubai's summer heat is right now. Really impressed with its staying power. </div>
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This is actually the first time for me to use a product from Maybelline's well-raved Fit Me line and now I'm tempted to give the others a go too. Not a fan of liquid foundation, so maybe the concealer next?</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Are you also a fan of the brand Maybelline? </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">What other Maybelline products are you loving?</span></div>
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<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwNAOyJzUt7Va1C-WNGc1wvDUN0qir4tNKl5lmBUEwY8Rhqz21J8DwXkuRdro11XA4yfV5tGV7GF0FMUXXRfqvVagI0udmwro-aHjqlX0_Q_8c6uI9PVjA6LQ-ztR-KLU7MCt28wc5lxBn/s1600/icing+and+write+dubai+lifestyle+blog+signature.jpg" style="background-color: white; border: none; color: #ff91a2; font-family: 'Source Sans Pro', sans-serif; font-size: 16px; height: auto; letter-spacing: 0.5px; max-width: 100%; position: relative; text-align: center;" /></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5961943744454961482.post-67775044456096013912017-05-01T00:04:00.000+04:002020-03-09T14:37:13.997+04:00What I've been loving all week<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQe30QV-pHVl80pU5-burh29JhzerNzJpl9slBc4rz3qICqqgSAfb3wMcSD-v4c3FgKQ18Zgftjfnv3frE1_RwmtmoOc_nhR00eEw9OBtX-2DEOe-4Qp4bvCnV0IvX6DHfHxrbw624LFer/s1600/icingandwrite+dubai+lifestyle+blog+picks+of+the+week.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQe30QV-pHVl80pU5-burh29JhzerNzJpl9slBc4rz3qICqqgSAfb3wMcSD-v4c3FgKQ18Zgftjfnv3frE1_RwmtmoOc_nhR00eEw9OBtX-2DEOe-4Qp4bvCnV0IvX6DHfHxrbw624LFer/s1600/icingandwrite+dubai+lifestyle+blog+picks+of+the+week.jpg" /></a></div>
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Here's a few of the things I've been loving all week...<br />
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">What I'm watching...</span></i><br />
I had such a blast reading the book memoir <u style="text-align: justify;">#Girlboss</u><span style="text-align: justify;"> months ago and even back then I thought <i>"What if this is an actual film? It would be such a bad-ass film for sure." </i>Well, imagine my surprise when Netflix finally released its first season which I ended up binge-watching ALL WEEKEND of course. Yes, it was actually pretty good that I spent my entire weekend finishing the entire season! Though it's only loosely based on the book, the series was incredibly addicting.</span></div>
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<a name='more'></a><span style="text-align: justify;">Actress Britt Robertson did a fine job adding her natural spunk to the role of Sophia, but I guess I'm just so used to seeing Anne Hathaway nailing these types of characters a million times before that I half-wished it’s her playing Sophia instead. I know I'm typecasting, but I love Hathaway. With 13 Reasons Why and Riverdale both boring the life out of me, the timing of #Girlboss on Netflix couldn’t be more perfect. While I’m well aware of how the glory days of Amoruso’s Nasty Gal empire ended with bankruptcy and all, I didn’t want the series to end exactly how it did in real life. I hope they turn things around atleast for the series. Definitely hoping for a second season! </span><br />
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<i><br /></i><i><span style="font-size: large;">What I'm reading...</span></i><br />
My husband and I had the funniest phone conversation last weekend because of this new book I'm loving. He was in the mall to pick up a gift wrapper for a friend's birthday and called me up to ask the weirdest question ever: "Do you have the not so perfect life?" I wanted to immediately answer a resounding yes since I was doing our laundry at that time, but was too weirded out by the question that I had to ask him back what he's talking about. "The book, silly." Apparently, he meant <u>Sophie Kinsella's book My Not So Perfect Life </u>which he spotted on display in Borders. Of course he earned extra brownie points for remembering how much I adore Kinsella.</div>
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Since I struggled to finish reading Finding Audrey and Wedding Night (both novels failed to connect with me), this new book was a refreshing change of pace. How good is it? I managed to finish it in one night! This is Sophie Kinsella finally back in her element: funny, charming, and relatable characters. The theme of the book is very now and reading it was exactly the kind of escape I needed in these stressful days we're living in. Well, it kind of helped too that the main character and I work on the same industry and that we’re both lured deeply by social media. This novel is a definite thumbs up! </div>
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">What I'm raving...</span></i><br />
Real Techniques went on sale in Centrepoint over the weekend so I decided to purchase a couple of their <u>Miracle Complexion Sponge</u>. I've been hearing so many good things about this sponge for so long now with some even claiming it's the closest one to the Beauty Blender in terms of performance. It's been merely two days since I began using it and I gotta say I'm impressed. The flat edge is actually quite handy for contour and though it may not be an exact dupe of the Beauty Blender, this one's a lot less expensive so definitely worth getting.</div>
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I’m a total blush junkie with a natural soft spot for coral-shade blushes, so <u>Mac Pro Long Wear Blush in the shade Fleeting Romance</u> and I already had a full blown love affair before we even met. It’s a very flattering warm shade of coral with a semi-matte finish and light sheen. Looking like Ronald McDonald on one swipe of blush is a big no-no for me, so I really love the fact that the color of this lovely blush is buildable. The powder is very smooth and could easily be blended, enough to achieve a healthy and naturally flushed look. And when they say long wear, they really mean long wear. I have oily skin and this blush managed to stay put even after more than eight hours. That's amazing! No wonder it’s always sold out. </div>
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Our local Sephora here in Dubai just added the brand Skin Food to their product range recently and I finally got to purchase a tub of <u>Black Sugar Perfect Cleansing Balm</u> from this Korean brand. This is a well-loved product all over the interwebs and for good reason. On days I’m wearing makeup, I use this balm at night for double-cleansing to melt down any waterproof mascara and makeup before following it up with my usual facial foam. It’s very gentle and has not broken out my skin so far. This cleansing balm has instantly become a nice addition to my nighttime skincare routine. I also appreciate the fact that it also comes with a tiny spoon to scoop out the product for hygienic purposes. Win!</div>
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This small bottle of <u>Caudalie Beauty Elixir</u> has been sitting inside my drawer since last Christmas but I somehow never got around to using it until a few weeks ago. If you’re easily turned off by strong scents, this spray toner is not for you. The first time I sprayed it on my face, I was actually ready to toss it out. The smell is just too strong for me; like horrible lawn clippings that's too concentrated to be anything but pleasant. However, I love how cool and refreshing it feels against my skin so I just sucked it up and after a couple of days, I got used to the scent that it no longer bothers me.</div>
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I spray this all over my face in the morning before applying moisturizer and also at night after washing my face. I’d like to think that my skin retains its natural moisture and feels a little more supple than usual because of this toner. I’ve been using this for more than two weeks now and so far so good!</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">What are the things you’ve been loving all week?</span></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5961943744454961482.post-75756050914716722672017-04-27T00:42:00.000+04:002020-03-09T14:55:23.010+04:00What's on your wishlist?<div style="text-align: justify;">
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<span style="font-size: large;">Tarte Limited-Edition Magic Wands Brush Set</span><br />
If unicorns, mermaids, and fairies wore make-up, this is definitely the brush set they would use. <a href="http://tartecosmetics.com/tarte-item-magic-wands-brush-set" target="_blank">Tarte Limited-Edition Magic Wands Brush Set</a> reminds me so much of the equally gorgeous <a href="http://www.icingandwrite.com/2017/04/picks-of-week.html" target="_blank">Real Techniques Bold Metals Collection</a>, but Tarte Cosmetics obviously sprinkled more fairy dust and amped up the magic in theirs. Every brush in this collection looks sparkly, colorful, and absolutely dreamy! I know I don't need them, but I want to have them all. These brushes are irresistible!<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Heritage Hill Glass Jars</span><br />
Speaking of brushes, the kitchen section has become quite the source for amazing makeup and brush storage. These huge <a href="https://www.crateandbarrel.com/heritage-hill-glass-jars-with-lids/f3079" target="_blank">Heritage Hill Glass Jars</a> from Crate & Barrel would look so neat on top of my vanity table and roomy enough to fit all my face brushes and beauty sponges too. The lid in itself is reason enough to give in, since dusty ol' brushes (no matter how pretty) are just a complete abomination. Planning to grab a couple of these jars this weekend actually.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Sunday Riley Good Genes</span><br />
I stock up and spend more on skincare products than makeup to be honest, which I believe is actually a good thing. Sadly, with the weather transitioning back to summer here in Dubai, my skin has started to act up once again. I've been researching on a good face serum to address some of my skin issues and <a href="http://www.sephora.com/good-genes-all-in-one-lactic-acid-treatment-P309308" target="_blank">Sunday Riley Good Genes</a> keeps on coming up. It's an all-in-one lactic acid treatment apparently meant to exfoliate and freshen up clogged pores and dull skin and I'm liking the sound of it. It's gotten a lot of rave reviews which made me so curious. Now if only I could get past that hefty price tag, 'cause that's some serious moolah for one teeny product right there.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">iPhone 7 Plus in Rose Gold</span></div>
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I have been wanting to upgrade to a bigger phone screen for the longest time now because of my poor eyesight, and with my recent obsession with anything rose gold, the <a href="https://www.apple.com/shop/buy-iphone/iphone-7/5.5-inch-display-128gb-rose-gold-att" target="_blank">Apple iPhone7 Plus in Rose Gold</a> looks like the perfect match. Problem is, I’m not at all willing to splurge on a new phone, so I guess I will have to wait a few more weeks to get my postpaid plan renewed before I can get this handset for free. Can't wait!</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Hong Kong Disneyland</span></div>
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We've had two consecutive long weekends here in Dubai this month, but with our team's crazy workload getting more and more horrendous, weekdays have actually been feeling quite longer than usual. It's been toxic, and I could really use some breather. My whole entire being is just screaming <u>Hong Kong Disneyland</u>! This kid-at-heart wants to go back. Couple more weeks to go and we can finally go back home for a mini vacay. I hope a <a href="http://www.icingandwrite.com/2016/06/long-weekend-in-hong-kong.html" target="_blank">sidetrip to beautiful Hong Kong </a>is in the itinerary.</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">What's on your wishlist?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwNAOyJzUt7Va1C-WNGc1wvDUN0qir4tNKl5lmBUEwY8Rhqz21J8DwXkuRdro11XA4yfV5tGV7GF0FMUXXRfqvVagI0udmwro-aHjqlX0_Q_8c6uI9PVjA6LQ-ztR-KLU7MCt28wc5lxBn/s1600/icing+and+write+dubai+lifestyle+blog+signature.jpg" style="-webkit-user-select: none; display: block; margin: auto;" /></span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5961943744454961482.post-83175275578900131352017-04-08T15:13:00.003+04:002020-03-09T20:55:21.408+04:00The Magical Marrakesh in Morocco<div style="text-align: justify;">
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Travelling to Morocco has always been on top of my dream destinations. There's just something special about this old North African country that I find irresistible. Blessed with both Atlantic and Mediterranean coastlines, its share of rugged mountains, ever famous Sahara desert, and ideal location that's almost a stone's throw away from Europe, the Kingdom of Morocco is especially distinct and really packs a punch when it comes to sites, history, and culture. </div>
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It was a good thing that we did not need to apply for a visa to get there, but plane tickets to get to Morocco from Dubai are generally expensive no matter the season. To be honest, I lost count how many times we hesitated thinking that it was a luxury we couldn't afford, an unnecessary expense we could live without, and an experience we would definitely outgrow. I felt like we totally YOLO'ed on this trip and just decided to close our eyes and live the dream. And you know what? It was all worth it. </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Where we stayed in Marrakesh</span></div>
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We <a href="https://www.agoda.com/partners/partnersearch.aspx?cid=1753634&pcs=1&hl=en&city=11825" target="_blank">stayed mostly in the city</a> of lively Marrakesh for five days taking in the intoxicating chaos of Jemaa el-Fnaa for serious food trips, street parties, and a whole lot of people watching. Jemaa el-Fnaa is the main square of Marrakesh where the exuberance of Moroccan culture is best seen and experienced. The square comes extra alive during the night with thrilled locals and tourists filling the place up. Performers, Arabic storytellers, fortunetellers, and even magicians take the experience up a notch.</div>
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My Moroccan colleague recommended that we stay in one of the humble riads (or traditional big houses converted into bed and breakfasts) near the square instead of a regular hotel to get a more authentic experience and he couldn't be more right. We were right in the middle of where the action is.</div>
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A riad doesn’t look much from the outside, but inside is an entirely different story. We chose to<a href="https://www.agoda.com/partners/partnersearch.aspx?cid=1753634&pcs=1&hl=en&city=11825" target="_blank"> check in at <u>Riad Granvilier</u></a>, a mere two minute walk from the main square of Jemaa el-Fnaa. The house only has five rooms all uniquely designed and furnished with traditional Moroccan handicrafts. There’s a central courtyard with trees, comfy lounges and small fountain where we usually have our breakfast under the morning sun. There’s also a rooftop terrace, which is the perfect sweet spot to have dinner or relax under the moonlight.<br />
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Compared to regular hotels, service in the riad was much more personal and relaxed. I felt like we were just staying over at a friend's house or something. Breakfasts were prepared and served fresh for us mostly consisting of bread, Moroccan pancakes, and fresh orange juice. It didn't take long for <a href="https://www.agoda.com/partners/partnersearch.aspx?cid=1753634&pcs=1&hl=en&city=11825" target="_blank">Riad Granvilier</a> to eventually feel like home after an entire day of sight-seeing and adventure. A basket of our requested fresh fruits would even welcome us in the room every day. The hotel manager was also nice enough to offer free airport transfers and even arranged our walking tour of Marrakesh and day excursion to Ouarzazate which really made this vacation a lot more convenient for us. </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The con's of staying in Jemaa el-Fnaa</span><br />
The only down side of staying near Jemaa el-Fnaa is that the square gets super jam-packed at night, which can be traumatizing for some people to be honest. Most nights we had to literally squeeze ourselves through what felt like a mob of people just to get to the street where our riad is located. It was a feat meant for the dauntless and probably the most excruciating and longest ten minutes of my life. I've been pushed by strangers and even pulled forcibly by persistent vendors. Not my favorite part of the day for sure.<br />
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One time, a local henna artist just roughly grabbed me by the arm as I was posing for a photo and tried to drag me towards her spot for a tattoo. Even after I politely declined, she still insisted so much that the part of my arm where she was holding me ended up bruising. Marrakesh is beautiful, but they surely don't go easy especially on female tourists. So better practice different versions of "la, shukran". This means "no, thanks" and would definitely help you in so many situations. </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">What to do in Marrakesh</span></div>
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Our first day was spent travelling outside Marrakesh for <a href="http://www.icingandwrite.com/2016/08/travel-diaries-ait-ben-haddou-and-atlas.html" target="_blank">Ait Benhaddou and Ouarzazate</a>. We had so much fun and had a great experience enjoying the beautiful landscapes of Morocco during the road trip and even reliving favorite scenes from Game of Thrones.<br />
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All the days after that were spent exploring Marrakesh. We hired a tour guide to familiarize ourselves with the medina and explore the city. First we visited <u>Ben Youssef Madrasa</u>, an old Islamic college. It's the largest one in Marrakesh, but no longer operating since the 60's and now serves as a tourist site for its impressive architecture and history. The intricate details of the patio's walls and doorways are so beautifully done and I think would be very hard to replicate now.</div>
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We were also pretty drawn by the colors and design of <u>Bahia Palace</u>, built in the 19th century for Si Moussa, grand vizier of the sultan. The name of the palace literally translates "brilliant" and it couldn't be more fitting. Its 2-acre garden, ceilings, and courtyard look stunning, which is no wonder since it was said to be built by the best craftsmen of the country for over six years to capture the Islamic and Moroccan style and aesthetics.</div>
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It was a good decision that we had an educated tour guide with us, but we were a bit disappointed that he lacked the fun personality and human connection we were expecting. He would oftentimes tell us to explore on our own as he waited for us in one corner and didn't even bother to conceal his disinterest to take our photos. Call me shallow, but apart from learning about a new place, we hire a tour guide so we don't have to take turns in getting our photos, rely on a tripod, or take the most unflattering selfies. We also wanted to visit <u>La Maison de la Photographie </u>and have noted this on our itinerary but he persuaded us that it wasn't interesting enough. Since we were feeling dead tired, we agreed and headed back to our riad but now looking back, I regretted that decision. I know in my heart we missed out on that one. </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Yes, it's safe to explore Marrakesh on your own</span></div>
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The days we were on our own have got to be the best part of the trip for a number of good reasons. I loved that we weren't time bound and didn't have any expectation on how the day would go. We boarded a cab for the first time to get to <u>Majorelle Garden</u>, a 12-acre botanical garden which also houses the Islamic Art Museum of Marrakesh. Several fountains, bird species, plants and cacti can be seen inside the sprawling landscaped garden. It was designed by French artist Jacques Majorelle and the entire garden is washed overwhelmingly with the boldest cobalt blue shade named after him - the Majorelle Blue.<br />
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Since 1980, it has been owned by famous designer Yves Saint Laurent and Pierre Berge. The garden housed Saint Laurent's ashes and also has a small art gallery called <u>Galerie Love</u> displaying some of the colorful "love" cards Saint Laurent designed and sent out to his family, friends, and clients throughout the years. These framed arts surely showcase Saint Laurent's fun and playful side as an artist and truly reflects his more loving and thoughtful personality.<br />
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In 2010, the street right across the garden has been renamed after Saint Laurent. The new street sign can be seen in front of the garden's entrance.<br />
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After a quick snack and spending a good two hours inside the Oasis-like Jardin Majorelle, we decided to rent a horse carriage to circle around the city because it felt like the proper "tourist thing" to do. But it was scorching hot outside and we immediately felt quite stupid realizing that the afternoon sun could potentially kill us with heat stroke, so we cut it short and spent the entire day lazing in the park right beside <u>Koutoubia Mosque</u>. We hung out with a group of friendly European painters and young musicians on the park while waiting for the sunset.<br />
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Koutoubia is the largest mosque in the city of Marrakesh located in the southwestern side of the Medina. Also known as the Mosque of the Booksellers, their minaret tower is actually one of their most iconic landmarks that caught my attention years ago and started my incessant dream of someday visiting Morocco. It looks extra marvellous at night with all its lights.<br />
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<span style="text-align: justify;">I have yet to visit another city in the world just like Marrakesh where every day is literally a new adventure and every night is a lively party. Marrakesh is just brimming with so much adrenaline and excitement, it's impossible to get bored. I felt like a different person while I was in there, but at the same time I have never felt so comfortable just being myself and completely immersing myself with the place. It might sound crazy, but this city has allowed me to let my guards down, live in the moment, and just enjoy. It's scary, thrilling, and just all out amazing.</span><br />
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<span style="text-align: justify;">We got to sample every Moroccan street food in Jemaa el-Fnaa, had KFC for lunch just because, awe-struck by snake charmers in the square, haggled like mad in the souks for literally a hundred souvenirs (<i>Not even kidding. I bought 100 fridge magnets</i>), and took a million touristy photos for posterity's sake.</span></div>
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I honestly believe that a five-day stay isn't enough to really cover everything Morocco has to offer. I would have wanted to explore the hippie city of Essaouira, the blue-rinsed city of Chefchaouen, the chilly mountains of Atlas, and even the main city of Casabalanca. Maybe someday I'd be given the opportunity again to do all that, but I have to say that Marrakesh just in itself already satisfied me and beyond. It was definitely more than what I was expecting.</div>
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This trip to Marrakesh was undeniably the most jam-packed vacation we've ever gone to, and I felt a little emotional leaving the place. I fell so madly inlove with Marrakesh, with all its unpredictable moments, old world charm, and mad chaos. This is a bucket list check that I would definitely recommend to anyone who's craving for an adventure. You should try this at least once.</div>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwNAOyJzUt7Va1C-WNGc1wvDUN0qir4tNKl5lmBUEwY8Rhqz21J8DwXkuRdro11XA4yfV5tGV7GF0FMUXXRfqvVagI0udmwro-aHjqlX0_Q_8c6uI9PVjA6LQ-ztR-KLU7MCt28wc5lxBn/s1600/icing+and+write+dubai+lifestyle+blog+signature.jpg" style="-webkit-user-select: none; display: block; margin: auto;" /></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5961943744454961482.post-15120927526696596712017-04-06T20:32:00.001+04:002020-03-09T14:37:35.675+04:00What I've been loving all week<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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These past months have been crazily hectic for me and I really struggled to slow down and squeeze in some quality blogging time. So much has happened since I last posted so while I try to get my groove back, let me just share with you for now what I've been loving all week.</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Too Cool for School Egg Mellow Cream </span></div>
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I have blogged about <a href="http://www.icingandwrite.com/2016/06/best-moisturizers-for-sensitive-skin.html" target="_blank">my favorite moisturizers before</a>, but this new product from Korean brand Too Cool for School has changed my skincare game like crazy. Their <u>Egg Mellow Cream</u> has now become an important part of my daytime and nighttime skincare routine replacing so many of my skincare essentials. It is a firming and moisturizing cream made of egg extracts and also infused with collagen, which effectively works as a moisturizer, serum, primer, eye and neck cream, and even as a sleeping mask. I love that the cream itself is unscented and also has a nifty pump which makes dispensing the product so much easier. I've been using this 5-in-1 cream religiously for almost two weeks now and I haven't broken out which means a clear thumbs up for my super sensitive skin.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Tom Ford Lipstick in Indian Rose</span></div>
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You just can't go wrong with this light rose pink lipstick that complements so many skin tones and perfect for everyday. I actually consider Tom Ford's range of lipsticks as the Ivy League or crème de la crème of lipsticks not only because of the steep price tag and its luxe packaging, but how superior it performs. <u>Tom Ford Indian Rose</u> has become my instant go-to shade when I do not know what to wear. It's very opaque, creamy, and feel comfortable on the lips. While it may not stay put as long as a matte liquid lipstick can, this lipstick feels moisturizing and manages to look great and stay even after almost six hours of wear. That's something! I also have my eyes set on their other shades Casablanca and First Time. Someday soon!<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Real Techniques Bold Metals Collection Brushes</span></div>
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These premium brushes from <u>Real Techniques Bold Metals Collection</u> are straight up #brushgoals. They look so fancy and delicate that it's understandable for one to be intimidated to actually use them for fear of wearing them out (Read: <i>Way Too Pretty</i>). The brushes can feel a tad bit heavier than regular brushes, but fortunately the bristles are super soft and feel silky against the skin. Performance wise, I have to admit that these brushes do not exceed their regular range of brushes at all, but they do the job. The flat contour brush deserves a special mention though. Aside from being the prettiest contour brush ever, its perfect non-chunky size allows for a precise contour and does a fine job of blending out powder and cream contour. This shiny brush collection with its gold, silver, and rose gold packaging is every magpie’s dream and would look absolutely stunning displayed on top of your dressing table. You won't regret getting these gorgeous babies.
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Tarte Tartelette In Bloom Eyeshadow Palette</span></div>
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One of my favorite beauty brands, Tarte Cosmetics has really nailed it with this palette. I wasn't a fan of the first Tartelette, but this second one named <u>Tartelette In Bloom</u> has come out strong. This 12-color eyeshadow palette has a combination of mattes and sparkle all fit for daily wear. Some of my favorite shades are definitely Fancy Girl, Smarty Pants, and Jetsetter. The eyeshadows have amazing color payoff, creamy, easy to blend, and smell of yummy chocolate and vanilla too. This travel-sized palette also comes in a gorgeous packaging and a huge mirror. It's every bit what a dream eyeshadow palette is made of!<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Mermaid Perfume Spray</span></div>
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With its sophisticated packaging and charming name, how can one not fall head over heels in love with <u>Mermaid Perfume</u>? I've been on the lookout for this dreamy perfume since forever and although the $50 price tag threw me off a bit at first, I just had to give in and order a fancy bottle for myself because why not? This perfume has powerful notes of orange blossoms and a hint of ocean waves and coconut, which makes it the ultimate summer scent. It smells fresh, romantic, unique, and definitely a stand-out. Any girl who's ever dreamed of becoming a mermaid would be crazy to say no to this perfume. This is a must-have!</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Paris for One by Jojo Moyes </span></div>
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My stellar husband gifted me with this book last Valentine's Day and as expected, my booknerd heart appreciated the book more than the bouquet of pink roses which went with it. <u>Paris for One</u> is a collection of short stories from the same best-selling author of Me Before You. This book was such a quick and fun read. I managed to finish it in one night and I still regret it to this day because I didn't want it to end. Moyes' characters were very human, relatable, and charming. The plot was fast-paced, light, and heart-warming with sort of unpredictable endings. Paris for One is my favorite of course out of the nine short stories. I loved and connected to the main character Nell so much that I wish it was a full novel. I recommend this for busy book lovers who don't have the luxury of time to commit to a full novel but craves for something just as satisfying. You'll enjoy this.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">What products are you loving this week?</span></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5961943744454961482.post-84493380116398741892016-09-20T00:26:00.002+04:002020-03-09T14:37:41.629+04:00What I've been loving all week<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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We've now entered the last half of September and I seriously don't know how in the world that happened. It all just came so crazily fast! Thankfully, Dubai's weather has improved a lot these days and I'm so excited to fully embrace the colder season. You have no idea how much my scarves and cardigans have been raring to come out of the closet. It's been a long time coming! Few more weeks and we'll finally be on our flight back to Manila vanilla again. My brother is planning to also go on a trip to Singapore with mom and I'm really itching to join them. It's going to be so much fun for sure.</div>
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Speaking of fun, I just want to share with you the things I've been loving this week. This short list is so random I know, but I seriously couldn't recommend these awesome stuff enough.</div>
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First on my picks of the week list is <u>Harry Potter and The Cursed Child</u> book by John Tiffany and Jack Thorne based on J. K. Rowling's Harry Potter book series. This book is actually the script to Jack Thorne's new play which premiered in London's West End last July. To be honest, this book is not at all comparable to any of Rowling's books since it's not written by her. The writing is different, the look and feel is different, and even some of the characters are different with totally new ones too. But eventhough I struggled in finishing this book, I have to say that I still thoroughly enjoyed it. It's nice to revisit some of our beloved characters and see how they ended up with after the last book. Then again, I have to admit that seeing the play would have been a lot better experience for sure than reading this book.</div>
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My hair and scalp are on a temporary break from harsh shampoos and products with my current combo of <u>Burt's Bees More Moisture Shampoo and Conditioner in Baobab scent</u>. These hair products are made of natural ingredients and also gentle on my scalp and hair since they don't contain sulfates, parabens, SLS, and phthalates. The shampoo doesn't lather very well, but it cleanses the scalp really well and I love how moisturized my hair feels without feeling greasy after I used this with the conditioner. I've always been a huge fan of the brand Burt's Bees and this shampoo and conditioner combo is a refreshing addition to my all-time shower favorites.</div>
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These two <u>hand-painted ceramic small bowls</u> are some of the many souvenirs I got from <a href="http://www.icingandwrite.com/2016/08/travel-diaries-ait-ben-haddou-and-atlas.html" target="_blank">our last trip to Morocco</a>. It wasn't an easy feat bringing these fragile beauties back with me to Dubai, but I'm so glad I did. Aside from adding visual pizzazz to my vanity table, these also serve as a great and unique catch-all for my small accessories and what-not's.</div>
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My love affair with liquid lipsticks intensified even more with <u>ColourPop Cosmetics</u>. My sister gifted me with a box of these goodies last month for me to try and I am so loving them all especially the Ultra Satin Lip collection. Pictured in here are <u>Ultra Matte Lip in the shade Tulle</u> and <u>Ultra Glossy Lip in the shade Tight Fit - Metallic Finish</u>. They are very inexpensive compared to the other liquid lipsticks available in the market, but the quality is at par. Their gorgeous and wide color selections are also impressive. ColourPop recently launched their Fall shades and I managed to snag Viper, Times Square, and Love Bug all for free during my last haul. Win!</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">What products are you loving so far?</span></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5961943744454961482.post-63033500616912808322016-08-24T01:17:00.000+04:002020-03-10T14:39:07.112+04:00Travel Destinations List: Beautiful Oman & Sri Lanka <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Aside from the promise of colder weather, we are also looking at the possibility of yet another very long weekend next month for Eid Al Adha here in Dubai, and the travel bug in me can't help but go into total overdrive once again, lusting to get on a new adventure.</div>
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Unfortunately for me, we're still recuperating physically (and financially) from <a href="http://www.icingandwrite.com/2016/08/travel-diaries-ait-ben-haddou-and-atlas.html" target="_blank">our last vacation in Morocco</a> last month so we might have to pass on the opportunity this time around. But with nearby countries like Oman and Sri Lanka waving enthusiastically and trying to lure me in every time I go online for travel inspiration, maybe there's a chance I could convince my husband so we can pack our luggage and go for a weekend trip. The timing is a bit impractical I know, but these two beautiful countries both promise an amazing travel adventure without actually breaking the bank.</div>
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<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">SOMEDAY SRI LANKA</span></b></div>
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I have never been to Sri Lanka, but I have heard so many wonderful stories from friends who have been there before and they all describe experiences nothing short of grand in relations to their trip to this island country in South Asia. Places filled with lush greeneries and rich with culture and so much history are absolutely the bee's knees, and Sri Lanka offers just that and more.</div>
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Sri Lanka reminds me a lot of Thailand, but maybe more like the humble little sister of Thailand as it strikes me as a country that's more rooted to their incredible history and takes serious care of their abundant share of Mother Nature like nobody's business. They have rainforests, tropical beaches, fortresses, cave temples, and the best tea. Everything a passionate traveler could ever ask for really! And did I mention those exciting elephant rides? Win!</div>
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<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">OMAN ON MY MIND</span></b></div>
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I travelled solo to Muscat for a daytrip on business years back and still vividly remember looking outside the window of a plane back to Dubai feeling all low since I didn't get the chance to explore what the country has to offer. It’s just over an hour flight from Dubai and I still wonder why until now it's still stuck as one of my biggest travel frustrations ever. I mean it’s so near here I could almost touch it! I have always wanted to come back and hopefully the upcoming Eid holiday would be the perfect excuse to finally tick Oman off my travel destinations list and I plan to book myself on <a href="http://om.cleartrip.com/flight-booking/oman-air-airlines.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Oman Air</a>.</div>
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It would be so easy for any typical traveler to overlook Oman as a possible tourist destination. While most actually see it as just another Arab country with nothing but a slab of sand to offer, to me its old world charm and unpretentious facade speak for itself. With almost everyone raring to let go of the past and build a whole new world of luxury and tech, it’s incredible to witness how Oman still stays true to their culture and heritage, basking in it proudly for everyone to see. The country offers an authentic and no-frills adventure for every type of traveler. Stunning beaches, golden sand, fascinating ruins, majestic mosques, museums, and a delicious array of food (they have the best-tasting meat cuisines!), the reasons why I want to travel back to Oman is endless!</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Any plans for the Eid holiday? What’s on your travel destinations list?
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwNAOyJzUt7Va1C-WNGc1wvDUN0qir4tNKl5lmBUEwY8Rhqz21J8DwXkuRdro11XA4yfV5tGV7GF0FMUXXRfqvVagI0udmwro-aHjqlX0_Q_8c6uI9PVjA6LQ-ztR-KLU7MCt28wc5lxBn/s1600/icing+and+write+dubai+lifestyle+blog+signature.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwNAOyJzUt7Va1C-WNGc1wvDUN0qir4tNKl5lmBUEwY8Rhqz21J8DwXkuRdro11XA4yfV5tGV7GF0FMUXXRfqvVagI0udmwro-aHjqlX0_Q_8c6uI9PVjA6LQ-ztR-KLU7MCt28wc5lxBn/s1600/icing+and+write+dubai+lifestyle+blog+signature.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">This post is sponsored by Cleartrip, but all opinions are my own.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Images from <a href="https://pixabay.com/" target="_blank">Pixabay</a></span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5961943744454961482.post-15320009670380631512016-08-03T20:39:00.001+04:002020-03-09T20:45:12.588+04:00Daytrip to Ait Ben Haddou and Ouarzazate, Morocco<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Being total movie buffs, we already lost count how many films shot in Morocco we have watched, most specifically in
<u>Ouarzazate</u>, tagged as Morocco's very own Hollywood or locally-coined <i>Ouallywood</i>. The favorable weather condition (it's sunny by default), cheaper production costs, and exotic location, have lured a long notable list of filmmakers from all over the world through the years. I actually thought it was a far-fetched dream and until now I still can't believe we managed to pull off a great holiday in such a beautiful and exotic country.</div>
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Some of the
more popular movies and television series filmed here include Gladiator, The Last Temptation of Christ, The Mummy, The Hills
Have Eyes, Kingdom of Heaven, Prince of Persia, and most recently, Game of Thrones and Prison Break. Yes, Game of Thrones! </div>
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My husband and I have become utterly big fans of <i>Game of Thrones</i> and with the hit HBO series currently on break, we just had to quench our thirst for everything and
anything GOT atleast. Fortunately, we were given an extra long weekend in Dubai last July during the Holy Eid celebration, so
heading to Morocco for a five-day break was just one of the easiest decisions we've ever made. It was super hot in Morocco when we went there since summer season was at its peak, but we live in hotter Dubai so that didn't faze us one bit. We were beyond excited!</div>
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From Marrakech, we hired a driver for a daytrip to Ouarzazate. We initially wanted to join a bus tour with other tourists, but opted
for a private tour instead so we can take our time and enjoy a much more relaxed excursion on our own terms without feeling
constrained by tight schedule or other people.
Our driver Ashraf picked us up from Cafe de France in Jma El Fnaa Square near <a href="https://www.agoda.com/partners/partnersearch.aspx?cid=1753634&pcs=1&hl=en&city=11825" target="_blank">our hotel Riad Granvilier</a>, at eight in the morning. He was such a joy to travel with,
and although he's honestly not the most reliable when it comes to taking photos, he was very careful, attentive to our needs, ever so game, and knows his Moroccan culture in and out. We learned a lot and really enjoyed his company.</div>
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After almost three hours of blissful driving, while singing, enjoying breathtaking views of the Atlas Mountains, old Berber villages, Argan oil specialty shops, and stopping briefly in between for photos and snacks, we reached our first solid destination which was <u>Ait Benhaddou</u>.</div>
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Declared as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, this well-preserved Kasbah was transformed by HBO into the City of Yunkai, the second city in Bay of Dragons (formerly Slaver's Bay) that Daenerys Targaryen freed, gaining her the loyalty of thousands of Unsullied army.</div>
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There was an option to explore the fortress on our own, but we chose to hire a Berber guide instead for MAD 100 to show us around. I think it's also a good way to support the locals who rely on tourism for their livelihood. Plus, our riad in Marrakech who arranged for our excursion charged us lower than what we expected, so we had the extra budget to indulge a little. It proved to be a good decision anyway since our guide made the experience a lot more fun and authentic.</div>
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I had no clue at all that exploring Ait Benhaddou would require some kind of hiking, and given that it was summer with the afternoon sun at its peak when we went there, I was a sweaty and exhausted mess who seriously almost fainted on our way up. It was literally an uphill battle going up to the fortress and the experience made me realize just how unfit and sedentary my current lifestyle is. </div>
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A splash of water right on the face later, the small shop inside the fortress selling locally made art pieces became my saving grace. The quiet artist manning the shop offered his carpet in the corner for me to lie down and cool off. I was too touched by his kindness that I ended up buying two of his paintings for MAD 80. He used all sorts of natural inks to paint and once the paper was put over the fire, the colors became more vivid and clearer. It's traditional Berber art according to our guide.</div>
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Only a few families still live within Ait Benhaddou since almost all of them have already moved to more modern villages, so most of the forts are already deserted. Some of them though have been converted into shops selling a variety of local souvenirs, carpets, art, fossils, and other knick knacks. You will be forced many times during the course of the trip to buy, but try to restrain yourself as it will be a lot more expensive compared to Marrakech or Fez where you can haggle to your heart's content.</div>
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It also became a little difficult to take decent photos with throngs of other tourists roaming inside the fortress like us. So many Khaleesi fans were up and about in every direction (their GOT fan shirts gave them away). I think we spent over an hour inside Ait Benhaddou before finally deciding to come down back to our driver who was waiting for us in La Rose Dusable Restaurant where we had our lunch.</div>
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Minus the near-fainting incident (for obvious reasons), it was an incredible experience overall. It's not everyday you get the chance to relive moments from your favorite television series. To see in actual the place where Emilia Clarke and Peter Dinklage filmed and being in one of your dream destinations all at the same time was actually surreal and mesmerizing. It's crazy and it's awesome! I don't recommend it to those with weak knees and joint problems, but if you are big fans of Gladiator and Game of Thrones who enjoy discovering historical sites, then Ait Benhaddou in Ouarzazate would be up your alley for sure.</div>
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After lunch, we visited <u>Atlas Studios</u>. It's one of the biggest film studios in terms of hectares that has helped brought to life some of the biggest movies from Hollywood and all over the world since the 80's. It's also probably the most popular tourist destination <a href="https://www.agoda.com/partners/partnersearch.aspx?cid=1753634&pcs=1&hl=en&city=5284" target="_blank">in Ouarzazate</a>. Their guided tour costs around MAD 50 per person.</div>
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To be honest, we didn't spend much time inside the studio since we wanted to come back to Marrakech before sundown. A lot of the sets made mostly of plaster and created for movies such as Gladiator, Moses, Kundun, and Cleopatra are still intact. They're a bit old and rundown but the massively intricate Egyptian sets and temples built inside the property still looked impressive. </div>
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There was also <a href="https://www.agoda.com/partners/partnersearch.aspx?cid=1753634&pcs=1&hl=en&city=5284" target="_blank">a hotel inside the studio</a> called <a href="https://www.agoda.com/partners/partnersearch.aspx?cid=1753634&pcs=1&hl=en&city=5284" target="_blank">Oscar Hotel</a> where some tourists and production people usually check in and also a bar called Gladiator Bar serving refreshments. I was kinda expecting some sort of a glamourous showbiz encounter or something, but the atmosphere was particularly ho-hum when we went there since productions were on a temporary break. In short, my supposed "accidental meet-up" with Michael Scofield didn't happen. I did meet a new friend though, our local guide who insisted that we call him Brad Pitt.</div>
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Channeling my inner Cleopatra</div>
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They said these are the chariots used in the movie Gladiator.</div>
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We skipped the medina tour in Ouarzazate and headed back to Marrakech instead. The drive back was just as wonderful and breathtaking. It's so amazing how the landscapes and sceneries changed in colors and textures as we passed through like you're witnessing a rhythmic dance or something. I didn't even feel that we've been driving for over three hours since everything was so picturesque.
Our driver told us we would have enjoyed camping in the Sahara had we come during the colder season, but I've already outgrown campings and stuff and felt like we've pretty much covered what we came for in Ouarzazate.</div>
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A lot of walking and I really felt so worn out after the tour, but it was a day of movies, history, and nature at its best. A day after my own heart of course. </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Are you also a fan of movies or Game of Thrones? Is Morocco also on your bucketlist?</span></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5961943744454961482.post-80328462408819779292016-07-30T16:10:00.000+04:002019-05-29T00:30:26.216+04:00Liquid Lipsticks Confessions<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Happy International Lipstick Day, gorgeous! Last year, I posted about my <a href="http://www.icingandwrite.com/2015/07/friday-im-in-love-12-favorite-lip.html" target="_blank">favorite lip products</a> in celebration of Lipstick Day, but today I want to talk about my experience with a product that's become increasingly popular among every makeup aficionado and for very good reasons — <u>liquid lipsticks</u>.</div>
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There's no denying how much liquid lipsticks had levelled up since their invention in the 1990's. Its popularity soared to great heights last year, but this year is different. It totally boomed (fireworks and all). With just about every brand releasing their own line and version, we have undoubtedly reached a whole new era of liquid lipsticks. So here's the lowdown on my own immersion with this beauty trend that I really hope would last until eternity, with reviews of some of the liquid lipsticks I have tried recently.</div>
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My love affair with liquid lipsticks started with another love affair: liquid lip gloss. The wand is what got me sold in the beginning, it might as well be called magic wand. I don't have steady hands and would usually struggle achieving a clean swipe of lipstick without making some sort of mess. For me, the product is just easier to work with when using a brush as application tends to be more precise and seamless without the need for double dipping </div>
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So when all this hype with liquid lipsticks started, I went with <u>Sephora Collection's Cream Lip Stain</u> to finally give it a go. This line is still one of my go-to liquid lipsticks to date. My top shades are #13 Marvelous Mauve and #14 Blackberry Sorbet. They're very long-lasting, transfer proof, and also affordable, plus I love the fact that it's not drying which is a rarity among all matte liquid lipsticks out there.</div>
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My most favorite classic pink shade is <u>Wow by Woojooh's Lipstuck in Oud Rose</u>. I got a sampler <a href="http://www.icingandwrite.com/2015/06/glambox-me-unboxing-june-box-welcome-box.html" target="_blank">when I was still subscribed to Glambox</a> and this has become a daily staple. This lip lacquer is very matte with an impressive staying power. I just find it too drying, so lately I'd always end up using this on top of my Inglot matte lipstick in #425 instead. Believe me, this combo looks very pretty on and no need for a touch-up as the color can last you all day if you veer away from the oily food group.<br />
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I have mixed feelings about <u>Kylie Jenner's liquid lipsticks</u> to be honest, maybe partly because it took us almost two months to receive our orders. My friends and I pooled our selections and ordered together, but the parcel didn't reach Dubai after landing in Saudi Arabia. After weeks and weeks of hammering Kylie Cosmetics' customer service with tons of follow-up emails, they were nice enough to send us a one-time replacement box which my friend Kim asked to be shipped to her Shop and Ship US address. Five days later and my Kylie lipkits in Posie K and Dolce K arrived, but by that time my excitement for the product has already died down.</div>
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Yes, the packaging is very pretty with a touching <i>Thank you</i> note from Kylie Jenner herself, and I love that it already comes with a complementing lip pencil which makes application a walk in the park for me. It's also extreme-wearing which is a major plus and I love that it's vanilla-flavored which is pretty addicting to be honest. The only turn-off would have to be the colors since the shades I have chosen are not very flattering against my skin tone. Posie K was okay because I love pink shades in general, but lacks the punch and wow-factor I was expecting from such a trending brand which got sold out minutes after its launch. However, Dolce K was extremely disappointing. Proclaimed to be the perfect nude lipstick, but ended up getting completely washed out when I tried it on. It has done such a great job in erasing my mouth from my face, it might as well be a foundation/concealer. Maybe it would have worked had I settled for a deeper or darker shade from her collection, but I guess I'll never know.</div>
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The best thing about this whole National Lipstick Day she-bang would have to be <u>Huda Beauty's liquid matte lipsticks</u> which was launched the other day. While the nifty packaging kinda resembles Kylie's, the product itself trumps my Kylie lipkits in more ways than one. It's inexpensive, long-lasting, and has so much more variety in colors, plus it's closer to home (that's kinda in the literal sense since I live right next to Mall of the Emirates). I got the shades Famous and Trendsetter during its very successful launch in Sephora MOE branch last Wednesday and got so impressed that I had to come back the very next day dragging my beauty magpie friend <a href="https://www.instagram.com/kimmmych/" target="_blank">Kim</a> during our lunch break to get the shades Trophy Wife and Muse. It feels so lightweight when worn but the color is just wow, it's amazingly opaque.</div>
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The shade Famous by Huda Beauty swept me off my feet. It's so gorgeous, the almost old Hollywood glam kind of gorgeous. It's a deep bloody merlot color with a plummish tinge that's just bold and flattering against any skin tone. Huda describes it as an "effortlessly chic burgundy" shade and it's so amazing how this shade seems to scream positive compliments right back at you whenever you look in the mirror. I showed my husband after trying it on for the first time and he instantly said "You look like a doll. You should wear it everyday" which basically means two thumbs up. The #notjustanotherliquidlipstick tag really couldn't be more fitting.<br />
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I have also read some very good reviews about the liquid lipsticks line released by Anastasia Beverly Hills, NYX, ColourPop, and Kat Von D. There's just so many brands to try claiming to be the best liquid lipsticks ever. The only down side in all of these liquid lipstick adventures would have to be the ugly truth that they can be very drying to the lips. Using balms or lip primer helps but they tend to affect the lipstick's staying power.</div>
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<b><i>Quick Tips: </i></b>Exfoliate your lips regularly with a mix of olive oil and sugar to bid dry and cracked lips goodbye. I also swipe on Burts Bee's Replenishing Lip Balm before going to sleep every night which works wonders in nourishing the lips. </div>
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And ladies, drink lots of water please. It's totally appalling whenever I hear people who skip drinking and even eating to make sure their lipsticks stay put all day. That's very unhealthy and also just plain dumb to be honest. Lipsticks are supposed to boost up your confidence and not invented to make you an anorexic.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Have you tried liquid lipsticks? What's your favorite shade?</span></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5961943744454961482.post-5531871596664688542016-07-19T00:33:00.000+04:002019-05-29T00:25:11.964+04:005 Beautifully Clear Skin Products To Love<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgndEc39Wp121eLNU-6mmdz4KG3fIOestIhkh2GT7racTKYIfPgGwXnFMWnZv6foiFrvdNhSER2AanDmj6zda_6GF-X7AFCZj7f8nh-iBmizOyYySG7l2x8u2GbdBxjBxf3gsDUWVrL8SQg/s1600/bioderma+hydrabio+h2o+beauty+blogger+dubai.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgndEc39Wp121eLNU-6mmdz4KG3fIOestIhkh2GT7racTKYIfPgGwXnFMWnZv6foiFrvdNhSER2AanDmj6zda_6GF-X7AFCZj7f8nh-iBmizOyYySG7l2x8u2GbdBxjBxf3gsDUWVrL8SQg/s1600/bioderma+hydrabio+h2o+beauty+blogger+dubai.jpg" /></a></div>
<span style="text-align: justify;">Truth is having perfectly beautiful skin is just next to impossible. Even those people loaded enough to afford religious visits to their trusted derma clinics for "maintenance" still get the occasional zits and fair share of skin emergencies. But this shouldn't deter a regular plain Jane like me from atleast trying my best to care for my skin, right? Here are five </span><u style="text-align: justify;">skin cleansing and moisturizing products</u><span style="text-align: justify;"> which I am loving at the moment.</span>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">HAIL HYDRA</span><br />
I have been a loyal user of Bioderma Sensibio H2O after receiving a sample bottle from my <a href="http://www.icingandwrite.com/2015/06/glambox-me-unboxing-june-box-welcome-box.html" target="_blank">Glambox welcome box</a> centuries ago. But during our last holiday, the bottle I carried with me cracked and spilled during transit and the pharmacy near our hotel only had the <u>Bioderma Hydrabio H2O</u> available. I still decided to purchase it as an alternative and have never looked back since. It's the same formula as the Sensibio, but more hydrating and doesn't feel heavy at all. I love the fact that this solution micellaire is also fragrance free and very gentle, so it doesn't sting when applied to the skin.<br />
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OLé CLEANSING OIL</span><br />
The power of cleansing oil has been uncharted territories for me until recently. It used to frustrate me a lot whenever I would run my fingers over the sides of my nose and feel how cracked and dry they were no matter how much moisturizer I put on. My skin has greatly improved now thanks to <u><a href="http://www.shareasale.com/m-pr.cfm?merchantID=10669&userID=618317&productID=635885720" target="_blank">Shu Uemura's Porefinist Anti-Shine Fresh Cleansing Oil</a></u>. I use three to four pumps of this product every night to cleanse my face and it works wonders in melting away my make-up that normally I would struggle to remove. The pump can be quite tricky to use at first since product tends to squirt in all directions but I've finally gotten the hang of it after repeated use. It's also a bit pricey, but definitely worth it!<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">INTO THE WILD </span><br />
I am a huge fan of double cleansing especially during the night due to my sensitive skin. Removing all the day's dirt and make-up has become a prerequisite for me to get a good night sleep. Otherwise, I'd end up being haunted the next morning by instant breakouts. My current facial wash of choice after using my cleansing oil is <u>VLCC Wild Turmeric Gentle Clarifying Face Wash</u>. This is one of the very few facial wash products out there that doesn't break out my skin because of its supposed gentle formulation of turmeric and honey. I also love that you don't need to use a lot since it lathers really well and leaves your skin feeling soft and squeaky clean. Rinsing off the suds can be a labor, so patience is key. And did I say this cleanser is also soap free? :)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEyGexmmx8NDzMouGRFIfRjoIb_MsvxfrVYMrrEme4OU-TKfv9J_9Qch0DmKDQdr9FBlXfZiWP8xCwkXtrPUUL3mhes-y11w5kCpvEx5Kv81hKflvcaVvlgWjXXxrotbiTW-m7FF2dycdl/s1600/best+beauty+products+to+clean+face+clear+skin+dubai+beauty+blogger.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEyGexmmx8NDzMouGRFIfRjoIb_MsvxfrVYMrrEme4OU-TKfv9J_9Qch0DmKDQdr9FBlXfZiWP8xCwkXtrPUUL3mhes-y11w5kCpvEx5Kv81hKflvcaVvlgWjXXxrotbiTW-m7FF2dycdl/s1600/best+beauty+products+to+clean+face+clear+skin+dubai+beauty+blogger.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">WIPE IT UP</span><br />
I have lost count how many times I have sworn off waterproof mascaras and eyeliners because they're just a pain to remove. But now I am back to strutting them on the daily and I have <u>Johnson's Face Care Moisturizing Cleansing Wipes for Dry Skin</u> to thank for it. These humble wet wipes provide extra moisture, suited to my sensitive skin, and easily wipes off even my most waterproof mascara like nobody's business. Win!<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">NO SH*T MIRACLE SHEETS</span><br />
There's nothing quite like lying down on your bed after a long tiring day and taking ten blissful minutes of silence and meditation with a skin nourishing facial mask on. And in this scorching Dubai summer, it's truly a luxurious experience you can get regularly without breaking the bank. My runaway favorites on this front are the <u><a href="http://www.shareasale.com/m-pr.cfm?merchantID=10669&userID=618317&productID=611630205" target="_blank">Real Nature Masks of The Face Shop</a></u> especially the Aloe Vera variant. I have hoarded tons of these miracle essence sheets in Hong Kong which could probably last me the entire year. It's so amazing how my skin feels brighter, renewed, and supple right away. It's definitely an inexpensive instant pick-me-upper for the skin.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">What skin care products are you loving at the moment?</span><br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5961943744454961482.post-15511247987652519072016-07-05T02:06:00.000+04:002020-03-09T20:45:31.365+04:004 Reasons Why Couples Who Travel Are The Happiest<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Here's the biggest secret: A third party was the very reason why our marriage has changed for the better. He's fun, demanding, and always gets me excited in more ways than one. He loves to plan things out, but he can also be the most spontaneous. He loves a good challenge and pushing people to their limits. Because of him, I've discovered so many things about myself and I have done a lot of firsts that I thought I could not do before.
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He loves it when I'm willing to try new things, meet interesting people, even speak a foreign language, and simply go out of my comfort zone. He's been a constant presence all throughout our nine-year relationship, and he's hell bent on staying, just so he could spice things up for me and my husband every now and then.
His name is <i><u>Travel</u></i> and we definitely love having him around. </div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">DON'T STAY STUCK IN A RUT</span></div>
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Nine years is a long time and to be honest, that long of a time together could really dull up anyone's relationship. When you get sucked into a dull routine of coexistence with your partner, things that usually excite and bring you joy could get boring and even frustrating. Sometimes couples easily find themselves at each other's throats because of this and believe me, that's never a pretty situation to get stuck into.</div>
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That's why my husband and I have made it a point every year to go to atleast one new place we've never been to for a quick change of scenery and a fresher perspective. Be it overseas or just out of town, discovering something new together outside the confines of your home could loosen up the tension that has built up and bring back the sparks once again.<br />
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A busy schedule, insufficient budget, or even a multitude of adult responsibilities shouldn't stop you from travelling or taking on a whole new adventure together. If there's a will, there's definitely a way!<br />
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Before we decided to <a href="http://www.icingandwrite.com/2016/06/long-weekend-in-hong-kong.html" target="_blank">go to Hong Kong last year</a>, I was actually in a very bad phase since I just took on a new role in a new company and I was letting all my work's stress affect our relationship at home. We knew we just had to get away someplace where we could just relax and have fun, and Disneyland proved to be the perfect escape.</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">SEE THE SILVER LINING</span></div>
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The first time we travelled as a couple was during a road trip from Manila to the highlands of Tagaytay in the Philippines. It was supposed to be a barely two-hour drive, but we haven't reached our destination yet when his car stopped working. My then boyfriend (now husband) tried to tinker with the engine just enough to reach a roadside car repair shop where we were entertained by a witty four-year old mechanic son and his lovely mother who served us cold drinks while we waited for the car to be fixed.</div>
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We did reach Tagaytay after almost five long hours only for the car to get broken again and stop running permanently. It would be so easy for me to lose my cool then and just get angry at him since it's his car which ruined our trip, but I didn't. As weird as it may sound, I was actually enjoying our misfortune, because that's when I discovered what kind of a chill man the guy I was dating is. His charming ways with people, how he handled stress, and getting what he wanted was so adorable to watch. To me it was such a revelation.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_YR2w85ead96xNVU-oWqyfBch33HnpSLb-_KqKzVpk0RJzn9m5pnOypeJ3DO28UNvHGgA2K9W4aao5JLi_GLHfEYOZI3DEU423NlPcFF5UgYYIACh-y0Ws0ZJca-BmTTwzVXlCToW1an9/s1600/couple-768607_640.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_YR2w85ead96xNVU-oWqyfBch33HnpSLb-_KqKzVpk0RJzn9m5pnOypeJ3DO28UNvHGgA2K9W4aao5JLi_GLHfEYOZI3DEU423NlPcFF5UgYYIACh-y0Ws0ZJca-BmTTwzVXlCToW1an9/s1600/couple-768607_640.jpg" /></a></div>
<a center="" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcar-NaswjPf5pCbr7w-aPJ7BAdUcAzx156ehb0_H8ABMIxPVWGqjexgXTeUOxVOQDUnW4Sgf01IdCTv02Uby-16kPHTpVukTjW9mPiDfSUMoZA25Dxz6cxoQU5NVcnlizImTF6xvaiTJq/s1600/travel+beach+couple+together+adventure.jpg" text-align:=""><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcar-NaswjPf5pCbr7w-aPJ7BAdUcAzx156ehb0_H8ABMIxPVWGqjexgXTeUOxVOQDUnW4Sgf01IdCTv02Uby-16kPHTpVukTjW9mPiDfSUMoZA25Dxz6cxoQU5NVcnlizImTF6xvaiTJq/s1600/travel+beach+couple+together+adventure.jpg" /></a></div>
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That day, we were given access to a gated private property with breathtaking views of the Taal Lake. The caretaker of the property who we just met even gave us fresh pineapples for us to take home. We rode tricycles and even one random car all for free to get to Lourdes Church and Leslie's, but that's not the best part. We went back to Manila flat broke, in a tow truck no less, while singing and laughing at each other's bad luck. That was nine years ago, and also the start of a string of fun adventures and misadventures we've had together.</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">A BUILDING OF TRUST</span><br />
Being fans of DIY, I totally lost count how many times we've been lost during our many trips together. Navigating a new country and at the same time having an enjoyable time could really prove to be difficult for anyone. Frustrating moments like this also has the potential to unleash the 'not-so-nice-and-charming' side of you or your partner.<br />
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During our <a href="http://www.icingandwrite.com/2016/06/our-day-trip-to-macau.html" target="_blank">day trip to Macau</a> last September, we almost missed our trip back to Hong Kong since I insisted on staying longer than planned in Senado Square (all for the food of course). As a result, we ended up getting lost trying to find the bus that will take us to the terminal. So although we were warned to avoid it as much as possible, I urged him to hail a cab instead.<br />
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We both knew that it was my fault why we were in that dilemma and that taking a cab would really set us back since we still had a couple of days left to stay <a href="http://www.icingandwrite.com/2016/06/long-weekend-in-hong-kong.html" target="_blank">in Hong Kong</a>, but I didn't hear him lash out. He still listened to what I had to say and trusted my instinct. At that time our minds were already set that we'd end up rebooking our tickets or maybe staying overnight in Macau, but by some miracle, we still made it to the terminal just three minutes before boarding was closed. Thankfully, we also didn't get duped by the driver, and we even got to watch the dancing fountain in front of Wynn Hotel on the way.<br />
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Yes, it's easy to play the 'blame game', but when you see it as an opportunity to show just how much you trust each other, it's gonna be one hell of an adventure.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBgLlZOMBnRq-WhSmyFpdQk_qpU9cqu2S8RSMSbqnBhbgjJ0DILnMBQeAMVXyPU-vC_ISlmj8ZH8BYApw8GghMlT70K25Iidr5f0FK1147e7nz49_qKNtSfWvg1jVz93r5P0WySnL52GYy/s1600/couple-in-love-1031744_640.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBgLlZOMBnRq-WhSmyFpdQk_qpU9cqu2S8RSMSbqnBhbgjJ0DILnMBQeAMVXyPU-vC_ISlmj8ZH8BYApw8GghMlT70K25Iidr5f0FK1147e7nz49_qKNtSfWvg1jVz93r5P0WySnL52GYy/s1600/couple-in-love-1031744_640.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">JUST BETTER TOGETHER</span><br />
During our travels, I have lit an incense stick inside a Buddhist temple, offered a candle inside a Cathedral, and even prayed inside a Mosque. And all throughout these confusing metamorphosis, my husband has practiced the awesomeness called the gift of tolerance. Sometimes he would just shake his head and watch me silently, but oftentimes he'd join in the fun and all my quirks.<br />
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Travelling opens you to up to the big world. It will teach you to be more patient and understanding of people's differences no matter the culture, race, language, or religion. And when you do it with a partner, it will become an even better and memorable experience. There are so many adventures out there waiting for you to take on. A new cuisine to try, new language to learn, new music to dance into, the list of wonderful discoveries is endless! And believe me, the road less travelled can actually be a bit less daunting when there's somebody else with you.<br />
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Being each other's travel buddy has helped our marriage immensely. It has given us a bunch of amazing memories to look back on and maybe even laugh at for years to come. After every trip, we would always find ourselves going back home feeling lighter, happier, and just all out richer, with more stories to tell, a stronger bond and even bigger respect for each another.</div>
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Do you also have a travel partner? What's your best travel memory?<br />
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Image Credits: <a href="http://www.pixabay.com/" target="_blank">Pixabay</a></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com5