Japan Report: Tokyo Disney Sea!

Happy Easter Day everyone!  Is it okay to pause the weekend food trip post just for something even more exciting? :D  

We allotted just ONE DAY to get back  into our childhood, Tokyo Disneyland or Tokyo DisneySea?  After talking to friends who have visited Tokyo and research, we came in to the final conclusion --- Tokyo DisneySea it is!

We arrived in a sunny, yet super windy day at Tokyo DisneySea, but before I share to you more about our experiences here, the route is worth mentioning! 

P.S.  This is the only picture of Mr. AMW and myself together, unlike Hong Kong Disneyland and  Universal Studios in Singapore, tripod aren't allowed!  I wouldn't mind though, it was VERY windy that day and I am sure a lot of cameras will topple down!  

Wherever you're staying, Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea are accessible via the JR Railway and Tokyo Metro Subway.  If you have an Apple gadget, you can download trains.jp and you can use the app anytime even without internet connection to get the answer on how to go to a specific location and which line to take!  This is a very useful application, if you do not have an Apple gadget, thanks to Rowena for sharing THIS ONLINE SITE, you can search via internet before you leave the hotel and note everything down.  

Wherever you are in Tokyo, take a train ride connected to KEIYO LINE and go down at the last station called MAIHAMA.

You'll see this..

You will definitely be walking together with a lot  of other people and go into the Disney Resort Line because you have to pay up for another ride!  The Mickey Mouse Train!

It is a bit intimidating to use the machines but do not be scared to ask (even by using hand gestures) as people are very friendly and you'll definitely get the help you need!

A huge map showing the huge "playground"

Since I opted to go straight to Tokyo DisneySea, there is a ticket price on how much one way cost, always look for the ENGLISH button and everything will be in English!

Note: You do not have to click on DisneySea but click on the "amount" going to DisneySea, the board says JPY250.00 (approx Php125.00)  so click the JPY250.00 icon and you can purchase as many tickets you need.

Mickey Mouse train is here!!!

If you plan to get off different stations (Tokyo Disneyland, Hotel areas, Tokyo DisneySea and a lot more), you can opt to purchase "multiple entry tickets", again, we know that Tokyo DisneySea on its own will take almost a day so we went there straight!  

We're here!!!

Purchasing of the Tokyo DisneySea ticket was easy, the people working there can speak English, the old man even complimented my nails!  He said: "CUTE!" *laughs*  He handed us the tickets and Tokyo DisneySea Guide Map in English!

A 1 Day Adult Passport costs JPY6,200 (approx Php3,100).  

 Yes, it is very expensive but it's once in a lifetime :)

I was greeted by the perfectly shaven Mickey Mouse! :)

What I've noticed at the Tokyo DisneySea?  The merchandise are way cuter!  And there are a couple of guests who would wear cute costumes and bring along a lot of their stuffed toys for photo opportunity? :)

So cute!!! 

Not chipmunk...ME!  *laughs*  

Just joking...where was I?

Tokyo Disney Sea is quite big, the area is separated with the following adventures ---

Port Discovery

Visit the scientists of the Center for Weather Control.

StormRider is one must try!  The line was extremely and painfully long, but go for "Fast Pass" by inserting your ticket and another ticket will come out with the time for you to return!  It's worth it!

DisneySea Electric Railway is also there to help you jump into one area to another without much walking.  Line is long but turnover is quick!

American Waterfront

Here you'll find the excitement of big city

and the charms of New England fishing village

Another attraction that has the longest line!  The Tower of Terror.  Go for fast pass card as a lot of screaming and shouting were heard from the outside as tourists tour inside the house!  Too bad the line was too long they have to cut Fast Pass entrance so we gave this a skip.

Here you can also enjoy dining at the S.S. Columbia Dining Room.  Photography in this area is worst!  The wind was too strong they nearly blew my hair away from my scalp!  *laughs*  Exaggeration but the feeling was there! Hahaha

Mediterranean Harbor 

The ambiance of Southern Europe 

and you can even take a ride on a gondola

Lost River Delta 

The ruins of ancients Central American civilization

Arabian Coast 

Genie from the Disney classic film Aladdin is the major attraction here

Mermaid Lagoon 

The world of my favorite Disney character, Ariel

Mysterious Island

Captain Nemo has created this secret base for his explorations

 into the depths of the Earth and  beneath the waves

In here you will find Journey to the Center of the Earth

A couple of rides we enjoyed and was able to (sneakingly) took photos!

A not so scary roller coaster ride that took around 30 seconds even if the wait was 45 minutes!  *laughs*  Don't worry, there's an adult version of this roller coaster that has 360 degrees turn!  Of course we didn't take photos anymore! hahaha

Jasmine's Magic Carpet Ride

Again, lining up is a serious matter!  Though it was a Thursday, I was told that kids were on Spring holiday!  Or Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea are jampacked 365 days a year? 

Oh, I've seen the cute bear called Duffy at least once every 5 seconds (not joking at all).  Duffy Bear is quite famous here and people (super young and super old) would carry them around!  Keith and I both felt out of place without one!  Hahaha

Overall, the experience is quite good!  The pain of lining up and meeting up characters is more difficult as compared to my other "theme parks" experiences, please bring in some "snacks" that you can purchase at the train station!  We actually survived 8 hours without lining up on restaurants!  The lines were EXTREMELY long during peak hours even on those popcorn stalls!  

Bento boxes like these are seen EVERYWHERE!  I am seriously amazed on how pretty they package everything!

 Random snacks that tastes ...well I just tried the thin potato crisps and they taste really good!

Onigiri!

Though I can't seem to understand the flavors, I went ahead and purchased 2 of these and both tastes good!

 Here's a cute camel that makes a "camel sound" every 5 minutes which scared a lot of girls..and boys! hahaha 

And Mr. AMW likes to kiss her! :P

or look like her?
Don't worry I'm as confused as you :)

 Gorgeous flowers that greeted us even on our way out!

Cherry Blossoms! :)

Overall, it was a lovely experience!  I highly recommend to visit either of the 2 theme parks or if you have enough time, go for both!  It is a type of experience wherein you'll tell your kids and grand kids about it!  :)

Would you visit Tokyo DisneySea if you get the chance to visit Tokyo?
Keep smilin'
Stay happy!

AMW Wears: Le Bunny Bleu

A couple of weeks ago, I got this cute box with a cute bunny staring at me in a candy blue colored box!  It came straight from Korea....

Le Bunny Bleu

Check out what's inside!  Yay!!! It's another boots!  I own a suede brown boots which I bought from Greenhills many years ago and I want to kick myself for not purchasing the black version!  I guess the feeling of regret can be thrown out to the trash can....

Le Bunny Bleu is a shoe company started from New York, and today, they have more than 80 shops in the world and I believe the brand would like to knock on Asia Pacific market!  

Everyone knows my love for comfort amidst the "cuteness".  I wore it right away and indeed, it passed my "comfort test" and I will be taking this with me on my Tokyo trip!

The shoes is quite versatile because you can wear the pair with shorts, leggings or skinny jeans!  You can fold the shoes to show the checkered design or leave it all the way up for that chic, classy look!

LE Bunny Bleu No. 2495 is available in 3 different colors, Black, Beige and Khaki.  They are sold out at the moment on site, probably because it is winter time in most countries!  For the price of Php3,308.99 (converted rate), I think the price is okay as that was the price of good, quality Cow Suede plus Wool Fabric that I got way back when I was still working in China.

The only downside of this is that you need to go to the Pasay customs office to pick this up!  I guess, this online shopping is definitely for people who are used to purchasing online and picking items up at the post office or customs office.

What can I say about the comfort?  Well, I brought this pair with me on my Tokyo Trip and guess what?  I wore it for 2 days straight, even walked for almost 8 hours straight at the Disney Sea and my feet aren't complaining at all!  My legs were!  I haven't been walking this long for quite some time (plus I'm not getting any younger by the way!  *laughs*)

 Inside the JR Railway

For those who aren't comfortable wearing boots in a hot, tropical country like ours, do check out their other shoe designs!!!  These are some cute ones that I would go for next!

 Le Bunny Bleu 2012SS Color Class v.02

Le Bunny Bleu 2012 SS Spring Masla

Le Bunny Bleu 2012 SS Bunny Ring

And a whole lot more!!!!
Have you seen their site? Which pair tickled your fancy?

UPDATE: Le Bunny Bleu will be available in Manila Philippines!  Visit Le Bunny Bleu at Shangri-La Mall!

Keep smilin'
Stay happy!

Japan Report: Dormy Inn Hotel, Asakusa

Good morning everyone from Tokyo Japan!!! :)

Here I am, smiling as I'm enjoying the nice, cool weather!  Thank God our prayers were answered, the storm was over and flight was on time even if boarding was a bit delayed!  

As usual, I will be starting the report with the hotel we are staying at!  Dormy Inn Hotel in Asakusa!  In all humility *laughs*  I am proud of my researching skills and so far, we are always impressed with the hotels we booked online!  

To make this post short and enjoyable, I'll be sharing some photos!  

As we arrived Narita Airport, everything was in order, immigration process was a breeze and guess what?  We just went for a washroom break and once we went to the conveyor belt for our luggage, I saw our luggage right away and we were off for money exchange in no time!

Thanks to Mr. AMW's reserach skills as well as he got the right and best transportation to arrive Asakusa! We purchased Keisei Skyliner and Metro Pass Package with free 2-days Open Ticket to the Metro for JPY4,880 (approx Php2,400).  It is a great deal and we get to arrive in Ueno from Narita Airport in approximately 41 minutes, walk a bit to the Ginza Line then take a subway ride straight to Asakusa!  (Don't worry, I will tell you guys more about this in the future!)

Taking public transportation is difficult as we do not speak the language, but you know what?  My huge SMILE with the accompanying "Sumimasen" worked a bit as a kind lady helped us on how to use the ticket machine!  :)  I also used the same style in asking directions to the hotel!  

Conclusion: SMILING is definitely a Universal Language --- according to me anyways! :P

Imagine the glee when I saw this...

I've read gazillions of reviews on Dormy Inn Hotel and the reviews were spot on!  The receptionist guy is super friendly and can speak good English!  The checking in process was a breeze and we were offered free snacks!  

Rice crackers and bubble gum! :)

I'm glad my request was granted on the "not too high floor" and our room was on the 4th floor.  (I'm not being pessimistic, but just in case there's earthquake, at least I won't have the TOP FLOOR experience! hehehe) 

The room was indeed TINY, but as I read, most hotel room in Japan are quite small anyways.  There's the usual closet that includes fabric spray (to cleanse and freshen your clothing or shoes).  

A table with television (in Japanese language channels), a free LAN cable internet, a nice comfortable bed.  I love the fact that they have Japanese robe and slippers inside the hotel to use and...would you believe the tiny room even have a humidifier?  YES THEY DO!

 

The washroom by the way is quite small.  A tiny sink, a bath tub with shower, and of course, who can forget the high-tech toilet?

Yes, the high tech toilet deserves a special photo-op!  *hahaha*  It has seat warmer (which is super helpful during winter!  Trust me, your bottoms will thank you for it!) :P

Right beside the toilet, you'll find a separate washer that looks like a "kitchen".  A hand and face wash is there with simple amenities like hair dryer, toothbrushes and toothpaste plus combs and a shaver!  

One good reason to book this hotel?  FREE Hot Bowl of Noodles anytime between 9:00pm-11:00pm!

Since we arrived the hotel around 10:00pm, we gave the noodles a huge test right there and then!

 When I say: "OH MY GOOD LORD!"  I mean it!  These aren't instant and obviously made of quality!  I can't believe they are free!  I wouldn't mind paying for these!

I finished the Yonaki Soba in no time and tried my best to slurp with sounds to let them know how much I appreciate my meal!  

Reasons why I enjoyed the stay at Dormy Inn Hotel, Asakusa ---

• Reception guy can speak good English and is very helpful!
• We can't seem to configure the internet and a guy was on the phone helping Mr. AMW in trouble shooting (in English) at around 12:00mn!
• Free Yonaki Soba at night, free Japanese or Western meal that comes from the booking, free coffee at the dining area and free use of internet!  (Wifi at the dining area, LAN cable inside the room).  If you do not  have a computer with you, you can use the 2 computers available at the reception area.
• Would you believe I forgot my mouse and I can't seem to do anything without a mouse?  Mr. AMW tried asking if we can borrow one at the reception area, it was like throwing a stone in Pacific Ocean but guess what?  He came back with one!!!
• Communal Bath and sauna on the 10th floor free to use!  (12:30-17:00 Women's Hour 17:30-10:00 Men's Hour)

I'm sure I'll add up more as I stay longer!  So far, we're very happy!

I'm signing off for now!
Thanks for reading!
Keep smilin'

Stay happy!

Nail Art Tutorial: Maneki Neko Nails

Good morning!
Everyone knows how much I like to create "themed" nail art designs when I travel!  Since I'm in Japan, some expected nail art designs would be the Japan Flag or Cherry Blossoms!  Japan Flag may be nice but I'm not sure how the Japanese may want to see a Japanese Flag on a tourist's nails!  *hehehe*  Cherry Blossoms is the best bet but I've done Cherry Blossom inspired nails quite a number of times!  (Check HERE and HERE).

Since I'm wishing for luck this year not only for me but also for my family and friends, I thought of creating the famous "Maneki Neko" cat which is also known as the "Beckoning Cat", "Welcoming Cat", "Lucky Cat", "Fortune Cat", "Money Cat" or just plain....(in my dictionary) "Super Cute Cat"!

I researched on cute photos and prayed that I will give justice to the cute face of Neko!  

Since this is a freehand design, I've decided to create a simpler version!  Here's the result...

 (Not as cute as the photo above but they do look like smiling cat! hehehe)

 

I'm Off to Tokyo, Japan!!!

Happy morning AMW Readers!  Guess what?  I'm on my way to the airport today as I will be leaving for a well-deserved trip to Tokyo, Japan!

BUT, before I get too excited, I'm a bit worried today as Japan suffered from the Strongest Storm since 1959 last night and I'm not even sure if flight will push through today! But let us all pray for the safety of our friends living in Japan!

Article on the storm can be read here (Thanks to Keith's colleague for the heads up)

 **photo from source

Whatever happens, the show will go on..it could be delayed..but it will happen! 

After Korea, Japan is definitely next in line for our "must travel" countries!  Mr. AMW is super excited and he actually prepared the itinerary for the Japan Visa Application and mind you, I am the usual "tour guide" on most of our trips!  This time, I guess, AMW is relaxing! *hehehe*

Research after research, we've finally decided to book a hotel at Asakusa area.  I originally planned to stay at Shinjuku but after reading how  "busy" their station is, I've decided to go for a place more quiet and "traditional" and has the Japan-feel that I've been looking for.

Since most of my hotel bookings were done at Agoda.com, I've read a whole lot of positive reviews!  A very important selling point for me to book into a specific hotel are ----

• Great location.  Walking distance between the hotel and nearby subway station won't exceed 10 minutes on foot.
• Good reviews on the hotel staffs.  I've read nothing but praises on how helpful and courteous their hotel staffs are.  Some of them can speak good English! 
• Free internet!  We may be one "OC couple" but when it comes to travel, we like to prepare our itinerary in detail the night before!  We note down on how to go to a specific tourist spot and it's all possible with a free internet connection!
• Last but not the least, price!  The hotel isn't the cheapest but the rate comes with free breakfast for 2 (choice between Japanese and American breakfast) and free ramen at night (beat that!  lol) !  Free use of Onsen and Footspa!  That's good enough of a deal!

So a booking was made at Dormy Inn, Asakusa!  The name says inn but it's actually a 3.5-4 stars hotel!

 **photo taken from source

Here are some of the things we plan to do or places we plan to visit!  I hope we can do them all!  Or more!!!


Visit Sensoji Temple 
This will definitely happen as the hotel we are staying is just approximately 5-10 minutes away from this temple!  This is where we can see the 5-storey pagoda!

**photo from source

Tokyo Disney Sea
'Nuff said, we're both childish, so a visit at Tokyo Disney Sea is a must!

**photo from source

Akihabara Electronic Town

Hong Kong has Nathan Road as their "electronic" area, while Shenzhen on the other hand has a street of building after buildings of several floors selling various electronic goods from computers to cameras to mobile phones and computer parts.  Tokyo has Akihabara! Don't get me wrong, I plan to go there not onlybecause Mr. AMW likes to, I am actually quite intrigued on checking out some electronic supplies and who knows?  We may find something much more inexpensive as compared here in Manila! *laughs*

**photo from source

Shinjuku
There will definitely be multiple places to visit within Shinjuku, the business and shopping district. Like "The Piss Alley"  *laughs*, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building as we crosses our fingers for clear sky to be able to view Mt. Fuji!

**photo from source

 **photo from source

Harajuku
To meet cosplayers and hoping to bump into Danny Choo *laughs*  Mr. AMW loves reading Danny Choo's blog, Danny Choo is the son of THE JIMMY CHOO (the shoes), a UK guy who lived in Japan for quite some time!

**photo from source

Aside from a lot of other districts to visit, let's not forget my love for skincare and cosmetics!  I will definitely visit ---

• Matsumoto Kiyoshi - drugstore chains for various cosmetics and skincare line.
• Isetan - to check out high end cosmetics.
• Takashimaya Department Store - bigger department store with various range of high end skincare and cosmetics.
• Lawson - for inexpensive Shiseido line.
• PLUS PLUS PLUS A WHOLE LOT MORE!  

Oooh this is getting to be quite a long post and I'm not even done with what our plans our for this trip!  Whatever happens I'm sure it'll be a blast!  I hope to visit the office of the makers of Sergeant Keroro show!  *teehee*

 **photo from source

Yes, I watch the anime and I still do! I know it's impossible to go to their office as we may end up in jail for sneaking!  But I do hope to find them, even in plush toys!  Come on!  Don't laugh at me!  They are cute!!!

 

 And of course, we're in a different country!  What's the best way to understand the culture of the Japanese?  Through the stomach!

Okonomoyaki or Japanese Pizza!

** photo from source

 Takoyaki

 **photo from source

Udon or Soba

**photo from source

Tonkatsu

**photo from source

And a whole lot more!!!

Let's not forget the food and drinks vending machine that are ever popular in Japan.  I have a feeling I'd say hi to them the moment I stepped out of the airport!  :)

**photo from source

 I'll keep you guys posted!  If you have been to Tokyo, Japan and have some suggestions on must places to go or must try food!  Feel free to comment in this post and I'll definitely check and read them the moment I have internet connection!

Arigatou Gozaimasu!!!

Keep smilin'

Stay happy!