Antipolo 2022 | El Patio Razon

We decided to visit Antipolo again for a change of environment. We thought of trees, plants, and good weather. 

To make it short, we wanted to see the nature. 

So we ended up visiting El Patio Razon. Time spent on the road was almost 3hrs from Manila. 

It took us more or less 2 hrs. to roam around El Patio Razon. There were different areas overlooking the trees around the place and of course, photo friendly areas where you can pose for the camera. 

They also offer kawa bath which looks relaxing (available in hot or cold bath). 

We weren't able to check what's inside the hobbit house since it was occupied.

Then we left El Patio for lunch at Pico de Pino. The food tastes okay, like home cooked meals. We left as soon as we finished the food and then attended the mass at Antipolo church. 

Our last stop was at Kaulayaw Coffee for coffee and dinner. 

What I like about this place is the view. 

I tried Estrelya coffee which is considered one of their best among the caffeine drinks. Food tastes okay.

♡,

Mari

Limayon Local | Another day in Intramuros

Can't get enough of Intramuros? 

Yaaaaz!!! 😄

Here's to another day spent in Intramuros with relatives! 

We met in Makati for lunch before we went to Intramuros. 

We dropped by the Manila Cathedral and prayed. Afterwards, we headed to Fort Santiago. Sadly, the museum was closed. Still, we were able to see other places such as an exhibit in Baluarte de Santa Barbara and the interesting Dugeons of Fort Santiago. 

The exhibit showed the different buildings built in Intramuros which were made of plastic building blocks. Amazed that they were able to do it as detailed as possible. 

Felt goosebumps when we went down the dungeons. If you're not that good with small spaces, I suggest not to go in. 

Our day ended in La Cathedral Cafe for a nice merienda and chat. 

The next day, we had breakfast at Ristorante delle Mitre.

♡,

Mari

Letters from Mari | Embracing Detours

Contemplating about life,

Thinking of opportunities, 

Looking back in the past,

How decisions paved a way.

Feeling lost or muddleheaded,

A lot of things going around,

No focus, no direction,

Wondering when this will last.

Waiting for a sign?

Hopeful for things to be fine,

Manifesting goals to align,

"Embracing detours" is a sign. 

♡,

Mari

Japan 2018 | Universal Studios Japan (USJ) in Osaka

I've read the Harry Potter book series and was charmed by how magical it seemed to be. 

Also watched a few movies and was amazed by the visual effects.

Therefore, I made a checklist of what to try during our USJ visit:

1. To experience the 3D version of what's in the books.

2. To try butterbeer.

3. To eat at one of the restaurants.

4. Take photos as many as we can 😁

Lastly, make it memorable because its about Harry Potter! 

Here's a summary:

1. The area dedicated for HP is small, and there were a lot of people, still we had fun. 

I was able to have a clear picture of some scenes written in the book - wand shop, owl shop etc.

The platform 9 and 3/4 also caught our attention. Almost everyone wanted to have their photo taken within the area.

2. The butterbeer is pricey and tastes very (very) sweet. We availed the mug too as souvenir. I now use it as a pen or stuff holder 😄

3. I was expecting rice, but nah, they have corn. So yes, meat and corn for lunch. The taste is average. 

4. I have a lot of photos and videos! 

So yes, memorable experience 💯 

Bonus was the hypogriff ride that we tried. Its a 3D experience. 

Aside from the HP area, we also visited other places inside USJ. 

Have fun if you're planning to go there!

♡, 

Mari

Japan 2018 | UCC Coffee Museum

We stopped by Kobe, Japan and made sure to visit the UCC Museum. 

The train ride was a bit longer but definitely not so boring because somehow it became an instant tour 😁

Check out the video and see for yourselves what's inside the UCC Museum.

A free coffee tasting activity was included as well. Afterwards, we went to their cafe to end the day.

I can't remember exactly what we ordered in their cafe but i can still recall how happy we were when we took a sip. Indeed, the price justifies the taste 🤣 The dessert complements the coffee too. 

For coffee lovers out there, if you still have time, drop by the UCC Museum and make sure to order a cup of coffee afterwards! 

♡,

Mari

Lettersfrommari | A Dream

A fleeting scene in the past,

What to do, it never last.

Step into life or love games,

Burn the past into flames (?)

One's improvement, 

A blissful moment,

One disappointment,

A heart's lament.

Where do dreams hide? 

Why can't it be by my side?

Alone to dwell the high tide,

Life indeed is a bumpy ride. 

♡, Mari

Lettersfrommari | Far away

Far Away

I dreamed of being (getting back) together

To a promising forever

We knew the path seemed blurry

But our hearts are in a hurry

Same goals, different priorities

How do we survive such responsibilities

Then suddenly, there is no way

Today, together yet hearts are far away

♡,

Mari