Whilst at the moment many of the must-watch (American) series are on hiatus for the summer, I was on a hunt for new series to watch and my friend suggested that I should check out this Korea Novela called "Boys Over Flowers". If you are one of those people like me who got addicted to "Meteor Garden" back in 2001, then you already know what this fuss is all about :) Both are drama adaptation of the Japanese manga Hana Yori Dango. I used to watch the Japanese TV series of the same name on Ch 7. I like it! But this Korean version is.. one word-Panalo! Been watching this the whole week and can I just say that this installment was way much better! Methinks. The settings were perfect! Sophisticated. Glamorous. Posh. The F4 boys all look fab gorgeous! Lee Min Ho does justice to Gu Jun Pyo's character.

Omg! Could he be any more hotter seriously? GAH!! I am officially in love! Oh boy, PLEASE come to MNL! ♥ haha

Photo from his official site: http://www.leeminho.kr/
Go check it out! (it's Korean though!haha but pictures FTW!)

Watched Angels + Demons. Was alright. Really more of an opportunity to look at Rome's majestic beauty for 2 hours :\

"I work hard, and party hard too. But I also know it is important to save for the future."

Naks! Me ganon? =D

But seriously, I was never the kind of person who tracks expenses obsessively - writing things down on a regular basis and keeping the receipts. This started last December and I think it was very beneficial. Tracking my expenses like this kept my spending way down. I can also see where my money is going. I love this goal. After years of working I'd like to think that I've gotten very good about personal finance. I have somewhat become an expert on being a miser (I think) with certain things but then I still spend on expensive dinners, branded clothes, books, concert tickets, traveling and other stuff - I splurge.. and save too!

"Sometimes, for an artist, the only difference between insanity and genius is success." - Dr. Spencer Reid

Spent Saturday night watching X-Men Origins: Wolverine, dined at the newly opened Sbarro restaurant in Glorietta 5, conversations with F whilst devouring my favourite Starbucks latte. Sunday was spent doing side projects then later in the evening watching Criminal Minds. Mmmmmm. I love me some Gubler!!! Monday chilled out at home. Totally a rest day - sleep, dvd marathons. Lovett!

Speaking of CM, oh god I love it! All aspects of this show are pure perfection - the profiling, the writing/character development on the show, acting, directing, stunt work and the entire cast is amazing! It keeps you hooked from the moment you start watching it and that guy Reid he's so my type! :) I want him NOW!

"I believe in the sand beneath my toes.
The beach gives a feeling, an earthly feeling."

I've been unable to update my blog, so my stories have been piling up - SH, Gubler, Ilocos, Wolverine and then some. Ugh! I can't believe I'm so far behind with all this drama. Bah.

Anyway, we went to Ilocos last week. Oh yeah! Let's enjoy S-U-M-M-E-RRR!!! but you sure can't tell by the weather. It's raining during this time of the year, PAG-ASA says that global warming may be to blame for the heavy rains we are experiencing but I have to say I've been secretly wishing for it because you see I work during night time hours and I do need my sleep =P

But It was really a great experience. I had a blast!
Took the bus from MNL to Pagudpod (using RCJ) then plane going back Laoag Terminal to MNL. For a 2 day 1 night stay, you'll probably spend around 10k (including the plane ticket, accommodation and food/pasalubong). Pagudpud is über beautiful. The water's clean. The people in Saud Beach are so nice lalo na the place where we stayed, the resort owner is so pleasant and helpful. He basically helps us with everything. The food is good and relatively cheap. The beaches are priceless! I feel like I'm in paradise. The water's clear and clean. I love it that it's not crowded, so peaceful. It's such a great place to contemplate.

Our itinerary:
25-27 march 2009, heart
Day 1 - Saud Beach, Bangui Windmills, Cape Bojeador Lighthouse, White Rock Formation - Kapurpurawan Beach
Day 2 - Patapat Viaduct, Timmangtang Rock, Bantay Abot Cave, Blue Lagoon, Maira-ira Beach, Chillaxing at Saud Beach. Buti nalang umaraw woohoo! Todo relax lang talaga kami. Literally! :)

The place where we've stayed is Rafol's Homestay - The owners are just amazing!
Below are the details:
Owner: Mr. Ramon Rafol & Mrs. Delia Rafol
Location: Infront of the Municipal Beach Park - Saud White Sand
Phone: +639198627731 | +639212557237
Rate: Php1,200 per night
Others: Contact Manong Ramon to pick you up at the town proper. 10 minutes drive to Saud Beach. The room has a bathroom and an aircon. Since he owns a tricycle, you can also arrange a tour within Pagudpud for a very reasonable price. I'd definitely recommend this homestay. Nice people, very accommodating and the service was noteworthy.

I am now officially in love with Ilocos and the people - friendly and very accommodating. I'd be willing to go back anytime. Yay! I've already been dreaming about all of the fun things - the sand in my toes, camping on the sea shore with bonfire, laying back and looking at the stars, warm quiet summer nights and daydreaming. Ah sheer heaven! Plus, I still have an unfinished business with Vigan & Laoag. Yesss definitely soon!