It was so unfortunate that we had a rushed trip to Macau. Blame those travel companions without travel plans! (peace!) Anyways, I just had to make the most of my one-day-only stay at this amazingly bright and colorful city.

We took a fast boat, Turbojet, from HK to Macau. It's similar to the fast crafts that we have in the Philippines. The boat trip was short and comfortable---thanks to the cushion seats and fun companions. After getting through the immigration, we rushed out to look for maps and money changer. HK dollar is accepted in Macau though.

I always plan my trips and study bus or train routes of the place I'm going to. We took the right bus but, we failed to alight at our stop. No choice but to take another bus and alight at Senado Square. We didn't book any accommodation, so we just walked around (with our luggages!) and looked for the most convenient, clean, and cheap guesthouse.  We ended up at Vila Universal which is very near Macau's tourist spots. After a short nap, we started discovering the charm of Macau.

Me, the tourist.

We started our tour with a walk around Senado Square which is the most touristy place in Macau. Frankly, I was surprised that the old buildings were occupied by commercial establishments. I was expecting them to be filled with museums and history stuff.

Mc Mc Mcdo!

Green Tea Sundae. Didn't like it.

You'll never get lost in the square; it's not that big. And also, there are very helpful signs around.



The street going up to the Ruins of St. Paul will not only lead you to the picturesque site but will also fill your stomach. We went out without having our lunch yet. And it was a very warm welcome seeing all those free, sample food. Of course, we won't let this opportunity pass. We basically entered every store and tasted everything until we got sick of it!

free taste of beef jerky

The street leading to the ruins was full of tourists making it hard for us make our way to the landmark. Along the way, I saw a food cart selling egg tarts. I heard that egg tarts in Macau are the best. They really are. It was, by far, the best egg tart I ever tasted.




The highlight of our Macau trip was actually visiting the famous casinos and hotel. Where else to go first but The Venetian. At first glance of the building I was immediately at awe. With all its bright lights, huge size, and incredible architecture, the tour was definitely captivating.



The most mind-boggling experience was the Grand Canal Shoppes at The Venetian. Those super bright lights and daylight-similar environment. Totally mind-f*ck. Haha! That canal too. Super awesome!





We also went inside the casino and met a lot of Filipino workers there. They were very friendly. They help us find our way out of the enormous Venetian Hotel and Casino.

We then took a shuttle bus from the Venetian to Senado Square. This is free so expect a queue. And this is how the square looks like at night...



Below is a summary of our actual itinerary and expenses. You may use this as a guide on your trip to Macau:
         

11:00am	HK to Macau via Turbojet	Ticket: 150HKD
12:00nn	Arrival in Macau Take Bus to Senado Square	Fare: 3.2HKD
1:00pm	Check in at Vila Universal	300HKD
2:00pm	Tour: Senado Square, The Ruins, Fortress, Macau Tower, The Venetian
8:00pm	REST
THE NEXT DAY
10:30am	Hostel to Ferry	Fare: 3.2HKD
12:00nn	Macau to HK via Turbojet	Ticket: 149HKD

It's always been hard for me to look for good accommodations anywhere in Samar. It may be because I am not well-oriented with the place or I'm not just that good in looking, I also asked friends for recommendations but they're always short of answers. Luckily, I was able to find Cafe Eusebio Bed and Breakfast. When in Catarman, I usually just come here for coffee and cakes--not realizing that they also offer accommodations.
Entrance to the hotel is also the entrance to the cafe. Although you can enter the premises through the big gate, you'd still be guided to the cafe for check-in.



I don't know with the other building but this one only had three rooms--one downstairs and two upstairs. I occupied one upstairs.

The room was big and spacious. It was very clean and very well-kept. There no smell, whatsoever. The mattresses and pillows were soft and comfy--you'll be able to sleep real fine. The air-conditioner was kinda weak though. Luckily I'm not a fan of cold environment so this was not an issue for me.

Yes, I booked a double-bed room =)

Every room was complete with basic necessities--cable TV and remote, complimentary cofffee and water, private CR, and dresser.


Even the toilet was sparkling white--very clean, no smell at all, and spacious.


They even provided free shampoos, soaps, and dental kit. Not every hostel provides that =)


MY THOUGHTS: Well, what else can I say? Cafe Eusebio Bed and Breakfast is my choice accommodation in N. Samar. Aside from the affordable rate, the rooms are clean and comfy; there's a homey feel to it. Being located in a major street in the downtown area, it very accessible. Ohh! Did I forget to mention that there's also complimentary breakfast?! Things could only get better.

For more information and reservations, check their facebook page. You can also contact their staff at mobile number +63917-339-8432

Hotel tariff:

Bayview Inn is a resort/inn located in Brgy. Bantigue,Ormoc City. Located near the sea and near commercial establishments, it is convenient to stay here. A lot of public utility vehicles pass by the area ans so it is very easy to travel to and fro the inn. If you can also take a leisurely walk to the downtown area, if you want.

Bayview is an inn I frequent when I stay in Ormoc. Why?  Well, let me lay down all the good (and bad) points of this lodge. Firstly, the rooms are very spacious and huge. At a very low rate, you get to have a big room for yourself.




The room is complete with a dresser, vanity table, cabled TV, airconditioner, remote (upon request from the front desk). They provide towels for guests.



The toilet is fine. you’ll get all the necessities; nothing extra. No hot/cold shower (for standard rooms)….actually, no shower at all.   They provide tissue rolls and body soap.



MY THOUGHTS: This is a good place to stay in. The staff are very friendly, the room rates are very cheap, the room is good, the location is very accessible, patio and pool is also available, WiFi connection–YES! I mean, the inn is not luxurious at all but it provides you with all the necessities.