The Most Essential Items to Pack when TRAVELLING- Packing Tips Galore! [Archive]

BaLdoMarO

Jun 18, 2002, 12:34 PM

Originally posted by Gabriela
I didn't know guys are also conscious when it comes to packing (I'm assuming ur a guy). I guess toiletries are the most important stuff that have to go 1st in the bag. Tip: I always have a set of toiletries that I don't use at home. They're specially prepared for traveling only. Small quantities lang sya para hindi bulky. Usually yun yung mga na-nenok ko sa mga hotels.
i'm an occassional narcissist, so there are times when I become extremely self conscious. But there are times. however, that I become a complete slobbering pig who'd forget my narcissistic roots and just don't care at all. :D
Guys and packing don't mix well. Most guys resent the mere thought of it, so packing light means packin their wallet, airline tix, passport a t-shirt- pair of pants and 1 brief with `em all nicely tucked in the various compartments of their favourite backpack.
Vain ones, pack the entirety of their bedroom! The sheer agony of debating whether to bring a dark navy cotton crew neck top over a burnt burgundy lightweight v-neck pull over can become a strenuous task. So, to contain their irritability and to solve the issues at hand , they'd pack both... and this, my friend, is the start of the vicious cycle :glee:
The third "packing guy type" is the kind I aspire in becoming. They're practical thinkers who pack things that can and will be used to its maximum potential. They pack light, and yet they never seem to have an endless supply of toiletries and versatile clothing used for a variety of occassions.

I started this thread out of FRUSTRATION, I suppose. I seem to never learn my lessons. My last trip, I was confronted with a rather interesting situation. I had to pack, both Summer and Winter clothes for my little sojourn, and you're damn right on the money if you visualised me lugging along 3 big luggage of clothes alone! (Jackets and all are so freakking bulky!). Yeah anyway, I hope that this thread would serve as a reminder to me, and to others who share the same frustrations and experiences, that packing can be done practically and productively.

travis_mc_gee

Jul 18, 2002, 05:45 AM

I learned something very wise and space-saving from a frequent travel buddy of mine.. you roll your clothes into neat little, well, rolls, instead of folding them. This way, you fill out every little space that you have in your luggage. I promise you it's the best space-saving technique ever.

Also, never forget to put masking tape around the caps of your shampoo, lotion, etc., because they tend to burst during flights. And take that roll of masking/packing/duct tape with you!! It's one of the most useful, yet most taken for granted item when traveling.

Dami pa 'kong packing-light-when-traveling tips... kaso medyo weird na yung iba eh, so wag na :D

The people I usually travel with are forever amazed at how light and small my luggage always is, hehe.

istarbaks

Jul 18, 2002, 06:51 AM

Originally posted by travis_mc_gee
I learned something very wise and space-saving from a frequent travel buddy of mine.. you roll your clothes into neat little, well, rolls, instead of folding them. This way, you fill out every little space that you have in your luggage. I promise you it's the best space-saving technique ever.

Also, never forget to put masking tape around the caps of your shampoo, lotion, etc., because they tend to burst during flights. And take that roll of masking/packing/duct tape with you!! It's one of the most useful, yet most taken for granted item when traveling.

That's true. In my case, I have these plastic sleeves that when I put my t-shirts inside then re-seal and roll them, the air escapes and they get really compressed. This is very convenient for sweaters or other thick clothes.

Other than that, I have prepared this separate set of shirts/clothes and toiletries (including disposable contact lenses) that are reserved for travel alone. This is really helpful when you have a sudden getaway adventure.

BaLdoMarO

Jul 20, 2002, 01:58 AM

Originally posted by istarbaks

That's true. In my case, I have these plastic sleeves that when I put my t-shirts inside then re-seal and roll them, the air escapes and they get really compressed. This is very convenient for sweaters or other thick clothes.

Other than that, I have prepared this separate set of shirts/clothes and toiletries (including disposable contact lenses) that are reserved for travel alone. This is really helpful when you have a sudden getaway adventure.
I really like the idea of your "plastic sleeves"...I'll give that a whirl when the opportunity arises

thanks guys!

BaLdoMarO

Jul 20, 2002, 02:01 AM

A friend of mine just came back from a backpack tour of Thailand, Myanmar, Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos and she said to me that if ever I were to backpack in any of those places, it is advisable to bring along a cannister of BABY WIPES for those 'private loo moments'. I guess that can also be applied to mountaineers and hikers. No more sapa hunting or leaves wiping :glee:

istarbaks

Jul 20, 2002, 03:22 AM

Originally posted by BaLdoMarO
A friend of mine just came back from a backpack tour of Thailand, Myanmar, Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos and she said to me that if ever I were to backpack in any of those places, it is advisable to bring along a cannister of BABY WIPES for those 'private loo moments'. I guess that can also be applied to mountaineers and hikers. No more sapa hunting or leaves wiping :glee:

ah, yes. wet tissues are essential. i don't bring rolls of tissues w/ me but i always have these wet tissues. you can actually recycle them during your journey-- lightly wash them and let them dry. then you'll have dry tissues!

BaLdoMarO

Jul 20, 2002, 04:32 AM

Originally posted by istarbaks

ah, yes. wet tissues are essential. i don't bring rolls of tissues w/ me but i always have these wet tissues. you can actually recycle them during your journey-- lightly wash them and let them dry. then you'll have dry tissues!
If you're a cheap skate, you could go to KFC and stockpile on their wet towelettes..hehehe:D

travis_mc_gee

Jul 20, 2002, 10:18 AM

Originally posted by BaLdoMarO
A friend of mine just came back from a backpack tour of Thailand, Myanmar, Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos and she said to me that if ever I were to backpack in any of those places, it is advisable to bring along a cannister of BABY WIPES for those 'private loo moments'. I guess that can also be applied to mountaineers and hikers. No more sapa hunting or leaves wiping :glee:

whoa. this is what i've always wanted to do. hindi nga lang sa Myanmar because I hurt for Aung San Suu Kyi :ayaw: .. hindi rin sa thailand 'cause I've been there twice. basta, before i hit 30, i swear to God I will backpack through Vietnam, Cambodia, Nepal, Laos and India... all in one go. Hay.

tokyosubway

Jul 20, 2002, 10:38 AM

Originally posted by travis_mc_gee
i swear to God I will backpack through Vietnam, Cambodia, Nepal, Laos and India... all in one go. Hay.

sabit ako :)

istarbaks

Jul 20, 2002, 10:45 AM

aba, okay 'yan :up:

sabit din ako :toohappy:

BaLdoMarO

Jul 20, 2002, 11:25 AM

I'll hook along guys!
ANo i-plano natin?
The friend that went SHE travelled by herself! Grabe, will of steel talaga and she urged me to do it coz she had to step out of her comfort zone and forced herself to meet new people, which she did! Shes got many contacts abroad na!

istarbaks

Jul 20, 2002, 11:56 AM

that girl is really something... :)

well if we want to plan it, we should first raise w/c countries we wanna go... or better yet, kung asia, southeast asia, europe, africa, o kung saan mang kontinente diyan :D

planning takes months to take, or even a year or two. and we also have to work hard and save the money we're gonna use :(

but hey! i'm sure it's gonna be worth it :bounce:

Bea19

Jul 22, 2002, 05:14 PM

Ako i've always dreamed of travelling w/ just a small hand carry bad pero never pa nangyari. Nung nag palawan ako I had to bring 2 big suitcases in case lang na magkulang ang clothes ko. Nag uwi ako ng 1 luggage ng mga di ko nagamit ng clothes. Pero may alam naman ako sa packing lightly kaya lang di ko talaga magawa. Pero sa akin essential talaga ang alcohol ang wet tissues. Anywhere I go meron ako nyan!

malakim

Jul 23, 2002, 04:24 AM

Originally posted by travis_mc_gee

whoa. this is what i've always wanted to do. hindi nga lang sa Myanmar because I hurt for Aung San Suu Kyi :ayaw: .. hindi rin sa thailand 'cause I've been there twice. basta, before i hit 30, i swear to God I will backpack through Vietnam, Cambodia, Nepal, Laos and India... all in one go. Hay.

ready lonely planet's book - "southeast asia on a shoestring budget". good read with lots of tips for those on a budget. after all money must be saved para sa mga barhops :D

essentials of any trip:

- puritabs -> if you must drink local water and no bottled ones available
- swiss knife -> nuff said on this extremely useful tool
- credit cards -> most cities have atms where you can cash advance
- maglight -> you never know when you'll be in a dark place or get caught out at night
- clothes -> anything comfy. function first before form.

obviously you need the others that don't need mentioning - sufficient cash and you travel docs.

oh yeah, last thing. have the balls to ask questions when you need help and give the benefit of the doubt that people will be happy to help you especially when you're smiling :)

happy trip and keep us posted...

travis_mc_gee

Jul 23, 2002, 09:10 AM

Originally posted by malakim
ready lonely planet's book - "southeast asia on a shoestring budget". good read with lots of tips for those on a budget. after all money must be saved para sa mga barhopsOriginally posted by istarbaks
well if we want to plan it, we should first raise w/c countries we wanna go... or better yet, kung asia, southeast asia, europe, africa, o kung saan mang kontinente diyan..planning takes months to take, or even a year or two. and we also have to work hard and save the money we're gonna use...but hey! i'm sure it's gonna be worth it Originally posted by BaLdoMarO
I'll hook along guys! ANo i-plano natin? The friend that went SHE travelled by herself! Grabe, will of steel talaga and she urged me to do it coz she had to step out of her comfort zone and forced herself to meet new people, which she did! Shes got many contacts abroad na!Originally posted by tokyosubway
sabit ako

See, I should let my Mom, who's always been against it, know that there are others out there who want the same travel adventure that I've always dreamt of doing. :glee: Anyways.

Game?

Let's go. We just have to plan this really well. istarbaks is right, planning will take a long time... unang-una, we've never even met each other, hehe. :glee: second, it will take a lot of money, kahit na we're just gonna be backpacking and traveling on "a shoestring budget" through those places. third, it will have to be a long vacation... one, two weeks will not be enough. at the very least, mga three weeks sana. and kung katulad ko kayo who work and toil in the urban jungle more than 60 hours a week, i'd bet mahihirapan kayong kumuha ng ganito kahabang bakasyon. :ayaw: but, whaddaheck -- life is too frigging short! LET'S GO! *okay*

BaLdoMarO

Jul 23, 2002, 01:08 PM

[QUOTE]Originally posted by malakim

- credit cards -> most cities have atms where you can cash advance[QUOTE]
The only problem I have with this is the interest rate is exorbitantly high! I believe it starts at 17% p.a.! There are more cost effective ways of withdrawing cash than through this system...

Another tip is to carry US dollars as this is a negotiable currency wherever you go... I had difficulties exhanging my monies (in currencies other than US$) in banks and bureau de changes at a lot of places that I went to.

malakim

Jul 23, 2002, 11:04 PM

Originally posted by BaLdoMarO
[QUOTE]Originally posted by malakim

- credit cards -> most cities have atms where you can cash advance[QUOTE]
The only problem I have with this is the interest rate is exorbitantly high! I believe it starts at 17% p.a.! There are more cost effective ways of withdrawing cash than through this system...

Another tip is to carry US dollars as this is a negotiable currency wherever you go... I had difficulties exhanging my monies (in currencies other than US$) in banks and bureau de changes at a lot of places that I went to.

17%?! friggin steep. my interest rate is waaaay below that. less than 10%. bringing US$ is another alternative but split it between cash and traveler's cheques as a safety precaution.

ewanko2

Jul 23, 2002, 11:36 PM

I used to carry a lot of toiletries when I travelled, then I discovered local brands. I have used local brands such as soaps, shampoos, facial cleansers, lotions, toothpastes, sunblock, while travelling through Europe and Asia. Now I take the bare minimun and go to a pharmacy or market and buy the essentials, usually in the smallest size possible. I have discovered some really good products not available in the States. If I like the product I buy more to take home.

Santa Maria Novella in Italy was such a find, monks in the 15th century started the pharmacy and manufacture cleansers, moisturizers, soaps, toners, etc. All natural and effective. For years it was not available in the states but now eluxury.com is handling the US distribution.

I also like local brands because of the packaging and the funky logos and designs. Unless you have allergies and must use certain brands, I suggest you be adventurous and try local brands.

BaLdoMarO

Jul 24, 2002, 01:41 AM

Originally posted by travis_mc_gee

See, I should let my Mom, who's always been against it, know that there are others out there who want the same travel adventure that I've always dreamt of doing. :glee: Anyways.

Game?
Same here! My mom hates it when I go to places that have social and political distresses because she would hate to see me come back home in a wooden container... :glee: Ahhh Mothers! you can't blame them for being extremely protective.:glee:

Let's go. We just have to plan this really well. istarbaks is right, planning will take a long time... unang-una, we've never even met each other, hehe. :glee: second, it will take a lot of money, kahit na we're just gonna be backpacking and traveling on "a shoestring budget" through those places. third, it will have to be a long vacation... one, two weeks will not be enough. at the very least, mga three weeks sana. and kung katulad ko kayo who work and toil in the urban jungle more than 60 hours a week, i'd bet mahihirapan kayong kumuha ng ganito kahabang bakasyon. :ayaw: but, whaddaheck -- life is too frigging short! LET'S GO! *okay*

Well, it will be a hell lot cheaper to do a backpack tour around South East Asia and South Asia than, say Europe or the US. By the time we've saved up for 1/3 of the cost for a European backpack, we'd be geared up and ready for our little Asian sojourn... I think P45,000 spending money for Cambodia, India, nepal, Vietnam, Myanmar and Thailand is more than sufficient for our adventure. Your airfare cost will only be Mnl-BKK return. From BKK,we'll make our way to all these places. Heck, we'll hitch hike even to minimize cost :D

malakim

Jul 24, 2002, 03:24 AM

pwede sumama? :D

istarbaks

Jul 24, 2002, 03:45 AM

- credit cards -> most cities have atms where you can cash advance.
The only problem I have with this is the interest rate is exorbitantly high! I believe it starts at 17% p.a.! There are more cost effective ways of withdrawing cash than through this system...
Another tip is to carry US dollars as this is a negotiable currency wherever you go... I had difficulties exhanging my monies (in currencies other than US$) in banks and bureau de changes at a lot of places that I went to.

- i usually carry my cash card too. mas mura ang charge (usually fixed amount, $2-$3, kahit magkano ang na-withdraw) kapag magwi-withdraw ka from your savings account kesa interest sa cashing from credit card.

BaLdoMarO

Jul 24, 2002, 07:12 AM

Originally posted by istarbaks

- i usually carry my cash card too. mas mura ang charge (usually fixed amount, $2-$3, kahit magkano ang na-withdraw) kapag magwi-withdraw ka from your savings account kesa interest sa cashing from credit card.
SPOT ON! Thats what I do too when I run out of ready cash at hand. Cash advances start charging interest the minute you withdraw the money out of the ATM...

silvercup

Jul 24, 2002, 06:14 PM

Bring lots of tissues. especially those backpackers.

silvercup

Jul 24, 2002, 06:16 PM

Bring lots of tissues, and im sure you know where it is for, hehe. especially those backpackers need them.

Triglyceride

Jul 24, 2002, 06:21 PM

Originally posted by BaLdoMarO
I'll hook along guys!
ANo i-plano natin?
The friend that went SHE travelled by herself! Grabe, will of steel talaga and she urged me to do it coz she had to step out of her comfort zone and forced herself to meet new people, which she did! Shes got many contacts abroad na!

:up: :up: for how long was this backpacking trip? That's what I plan to do. I really wanted to travel with my friend but we have different travel perspectives - she wants to be a tourist and I don't. I'd rather be a traveler and be a local during my trips.

I also read somewhere to NOT pack too much toiletries - but rather, take the chance of buying them at the local convenient stores during your travel - it adds on to the experience.

I've always wanted to go the Siem Riep in Cambodia - where they have the ruined temple (Tomb Raider) and that Buddhist place in Thailand...

have fun!

BaLdoMarO

Jul 24, 2002, 11:47 PM

Originally posted by malakim
pwede sumama? :D
Of course! Hitch along with us if you're available ...we'll keep you posted

BaLdoMarO

Jul 24, 2002, 11:56 PM

Originally posted by Triglyceride

:up: :up: for how long was this backpacking trip? That's what I plan to do. I really wanted to travel with my friend but we have different travel perspectives - she wants to be a tourist and I don't. I'd rather be a traveler and be a local during my trips. We haven't formally discussed it yet. We've just expressed our desire to go on this adventure, but nothing firm has arisen. The trip, I imagine it, will span for 1-2 months depending on the time constraints other people may have.

I also read somewhere to NOT pack too much toiletries - but rather, take the chance of buying them at the local convenient stores during your travel - it adds on to the experience.
I like to pack my own toiletries because Ive tried and tested all these and Im assured that they're compatible to my skin type. I have small containers and cannisters that I use (emptied eye gel containers that I use to put gel based cleanser and moisturiser, film cannisters for my contact lens wash etc...). As for toothpaste, shampoos, soaps I would just buy it at the place of my destination or if I stay at a hotel, I would keep the complimentary soaps, shampoos and conditioners for emergency purposes.
[/QUOTE]

istarbaks

Jul 25, 2002, 03:40 AM

i also have a regular job kaya hindi ako puwede sa mahabang trip. if in case na matutuloy itong asian trip na ito and it is going tob like months, baka hook up na lang ako at some point of the itinerary.

i could only take maximum 10 consecutive working days off kaya i usually plan every detail of my trip para maximized talaga yung time. like, boarding an overnight train to go to another city. tipid na ito sa hotel, tipid pa sa oras. gising ka na lang sa umaga na nasa ibang bansa ka na. :)

travis_mc_gee

Jul 26, 2002, 03:38 AM

Originally posted by istarbaks
i also have a regular job kaya hindi ako puwede sa mahabang trip. if in case na matutuloy itong asian trip na ito and it is going tob like months, baka hook up na lang ako at some point of the itinerary.

i could only take maximum 10 consecutive working days off kaya i usually plan every detail of my trip para maximized talaga yung time. like, boarding an overnight train to go to another city. tipid na ito sa hotel, tipid pa sa oras. gising ka na lang sa umaga na nasa ibang bansa ka na. :)

this is so true. late last month i was planning to embark on a trip to Western Europe, around October of this year, supposedly. pero i was gonna be with my mother, who's really maarte :glee:, so hindi masyadong backpacking 'to, hehe.

Italy was gonna be the first stop. And then akyat sa Austria, akyat pa sa Germany, ikot sa Belgium, baba sa France and then back to Italy for the flight back to Manila. Schengen visa naman eh, so open lahat 'tong mga countries na 'to. (that's another tip, once you have a Schengen visa, sulitin na 'yan, ikutin na lahat ng countries where it's accepted, to make it more worth the amount that you paid for -- hehe, sorry kuripot ako eh :glee: )

Pero wala, hindi talaga kaya ng available vacation and sick leave days ko... pinaikot-ikot ko na at pina-sirko sirko utak ko to cram them all in, hindi talaga. sayang lang kung hindi ko rin ma-eenjoy nang husto kasi nagmamadali.

so in short, hindi ko na muna itutuloy... :ayaw:.. tsaka na lang, when i have more time. and more money, mwehehe. :glee:

yung mga night trip via train, that's the best bet. you can get the U-Rail ticket, mas mura yun sa States, around $300, and you can go anywhere in Western Europe na with that. istarbaks, tama, tutulog ka lang, paggising mo nasa ibang bansa ka na..

in the meantime, lemme just go quit my job, so we can do this Asian backpacking trip, ayt. :glee:

tara. *okay*

BaLdoMarO

Jul 26, 2002, 03:40 AM

Originally posted by istarbaks
boarding an overnight train to go to another city. tipid na ito sa hotel, tipid pa sa oras. gising ka na lang sa umaga na nasa ibang bansa ka na. :)
Yeah, sulit nga pero hindi pa rin ako fully recouped pag dating sa destination. Feeling ko, kulang pa ang pag tulog at pahinga ko....

istarbaks

Jul 27, 2002, 12:33 PM

balik sa topic ng thread...

well, condoms ? :naughty:

BaLdoMarO

Jul 27, 2002, 12:51 PM

Originally posted by istarbaks
balik sa topic ng thread...

well, condoms ? :naughty:
:blush: .... :evilgrin: ... :glee:

istarbaks

Aug 1, 2002, 05:11 AM

guys, have you been to egypt?

i'm thinking of going to visit and see the pyramids this coming december, do you have any suggestion or recommendation? and, (going back to the thread topic) anything that i should pack? :)

also, what route/airlines do you recommend?

malakim

Aug 1, 2002, 06:54 AM

went to egypt when i was just a kid. my dad says egypt air sucks. best bet is to hop on a european plane - swissair or lufthansa.

bring lots of cash to buy bottled water (i think that's pretty obvious).

lots of cheap and beautiful rugs so better have huge luggage space.

BaLdoMarO

Aug 1, 2002, 09:47 AM

Originally posted by istarbaks
guys, have you been to egypt?

i'm thinking of going to visit and see the pyramids this coming december, do you have any suggestion or recommendation? and, (going back to the thread topic) anything that i should pack? :)

I haven't been there myself, but I've friends who had the chance to visit the place. Some of the tips they imparted include:
:spinstar:It is wise to take travellers cheques for safety and these can be exchanged at any bank. Alternatively you usually get a better deal for cash in British Pounds or USD and many of the large hotels now have exchange machines which take cash or credit cards.
:spinstar:in the local markets (bazaars or suqs) bargaining is a way of life - so leave plenty of time for shopping. Asking prices will be very high to begin with and drop rapidly depending on how much interest you show and walking away will often be the way to get prices reduced. Shopping often means having a cup of tea or cold drink in almost every stall in the market and half an hour of general conversation (or translating letters from foreign friends) before getting down to the business of prices. You are under no obligation to buy, so don't feel guilty if you change your mind. If you do make a purchase it is a good idea to keep plenty of small notes as vendors in smaller shops often don't have change and you may have to wait while they go in search of your change.
:spinstar:Medical treatment in Egypt can be very expensive so make sure that you have adequate cover on your travel insurance. many visitors experience 'gyppy tummy' or 'pharaoh's revenge', which is a common form of diarrhoea, possibly accompanied by sickness and can last for two or three days. This complaint is most often brought on by overindulgence of rich food as well as dehydration.

As for items to pack along with you, it is advisable to bring some Mosquito repellants as there are droves of malaria infected mozzies around. SOme people find that imbibing Vitamin B12 helps in deterring these mosquitoes away. A 'Lonely Planet Guide to Egypt' book to get you around it esp. when you're travelling on your own, a comprehensive travel insurance, passport sized photos in case you decide to check out other neighbouring countries (you need these when you apply for Visas), ultra lightweight shirts, shorts, comfortable boots, sunscreen, first aid kit, tonnes of Kodak Film and condoms in case you get lucky :glee:

istarbaks

Aug 19, 2002, 12:25 AM

At first, I thought of planning my itinerary all by myself and visit the historic sites on my own.

However, when I checked Egypt's tourism department website, there is a page there where you can input your inquiries regarding your interests in their country. I typed my email address and checked the boxes that states my intended plans.

Then within 24 hours I received more than a dozen responses from tour operators in Egypt offering me their programs on my "order-made" tour package inquiry. Their tour programs vary, and same is true with the prices.

I think I will take one of the offers. I think it will save me time and it is within my budget limits. Parang less headache...... I'll just inform you the details after the trip.

Of all the items included in the packages, I just noticed that most of them specifically indicated that WATER (or any drinks) is NOT included. I'm now wondering if I should be bringing gallons of water with me when I go there. :D

okashira

Aug 19, 2002, 04:36 AM

hi everyone,

i'll be leaving for japan in three weeks, and will be living there for a year. i'll be an exchange student.

i appreciate all your advice on packing lightly and efficiently. however, since i WILL be there for a year, it seems i have no choice but to bring a lot. for one thing, there are plenty of personal products from here that i simply MUST bring, because it would be a pain to look for them in japan and one is never sure if they are available there.

second, there's the matter of the language difference - while i can carry on simple conversations in nihongo, i don't think i could explain to a salesperson that i'm experiencing a rash due to my allergies and that i'm looking for a good medicine to get rid of it.

third, i have no choice but to bring a lot of shoes with me, shoes for all seasons. because japanese sizes are small, and i, unfortunately, am a size 8. a friend of mine who was an exchange student before told me that she had the hardest time finding shoes in tokyo, and she wished she had brought more pairs.

and lastly, as we all very know, tokyo is one of the most expensive cities in the world! i feel it would be a great waste of money to have to spend on personal products over there when it would be so much easier to bring them over from manila. besides, i'll be needing the money for more important things - my apartment fees, food, books, and transportation.

given these conditions, can anyone still offer me advice on packing efficiently? i'd be grateful for any tips. better yet, is there anyone on this thread who lives in japan or has stayed there for longer than a month? thanks :jap:

istarbaks

Aug 19, 2002, 12:37 PM

okashira - domo... :jap: what school are going? i'm from sophia and i stayed at the soshigaya int'l students house -really cheap dorm w/ complete facilities. where are you staying? pm me na lang kung may gusto ka pang itanong. soredewa...

hello to everybody :)

BaLdoMarO

Aug 21, 2002, 02:29 AM

Originally posted by okashira
hi everyone,

i'll be leaving for japan in three weeks, and will be living there for a year. i'll be an exchange student.

i appreciate all your advice on packing lightly and efficiently. however, since i WILL be there for a year, it seems i have no choice but to bring a lot. for one thing, there are plenty of personal products from here that i simply MUST bring, because it would be a pain to look for them in japan and one is never sure if they are available there.

second, there's the matter of the language difference - while i can carry on simple conversations in nihongo, i don't think i could explain to a salesperson that i'm experiencing a rash due to my allergies and that i'm looking for a good medicine to get rid of it.

third, i have no choice but to bring a lot of shoes with me, shoes for all seasons. because japanese sizes are small, and i, unfortunately, am a size 8. a friend of mine who was an exchange student before told me that she had the hardest time finding shoes in tokyo, and she wished she had brought more pairs.

and lastly, as we all very know, tokyo is one of the most expensive cities in the world! i feel it would be a great waste of money to have to spend on personal products over there when it would be so much easier to bring them over from manila. besides, i'll be needing the money for more important things - my apartment fees, food, books, and transportation.

given these conditions, can anyone still offer me advice on packing efficiently? i'd be grateful for any tips. better yet, is there anyone on this thread who lives in japan or has stayed there for longer than a month? thanks :jap:

I've been to Tokyo 4 times and I LOVE THE PLACE! It's funny, Tokyo is considered a Global City and yet it has nothing in common to its fellow Global cities (London, New York). TOkyo is TOKYO, you cannot compare it to any city at all!
As for packing stuff, you definitely need your documents (NBI clearance, Birth Cert, diplomas, transcripts etc...)as proof of ident and as supporting papers in case you were to apply for a part time job somewhere or in case immigr. needs some documents off you, at least you'll be able to show something. Don't bother bringing cosmetics because JAPAN is cosmetics mecca! If u buy branded items, they can be expensive but the local offerings are as good and hella lot cheaper than those labels. You can buy them in "cosmetics stores" littered around Tokyo, even in the supermarkets they stock some neat goodies.
As for clothes, if you're "bigger than usual" it is advisable to bring your outfits along as it is painful looking for shoes and clothes big enough to fit you. In terms of variety of clothes and accessories TOKYO is paradise! Retailers slash their prices by as much as 70% off in January! You could acquaint yourself with some 'gaijins' and ask where they buy their clothes and shoes (if the dept. stores become a pain, try the side markets of Harajuku in the weekends)...
As for the language barrier, well it is TOUGH not to fully express yourself in their language but you'll find it to be the fastest means of mastering the language. You will have to get out of your comfort zone and learn the ins and outs of everyday life in JAPAN and hopefully pick up a lot from the mistakes that you commit. The most practical advice is Do not be afraid to commit errors/mistakes as you converse with the locals. You'll find that they're more than happy to offer some time and teach you stuff that you may be alien to. Just ensure that you have a dictionary/phrasebook everytime you're out.
Stuff to pack:

Summer Gear and In Between Season Gears (Buy your winter gear in Jp)
Essential Books! Not many English books in Tokyo (Kinokuniya has the largest variety)
contacts, family friend's addresses and phone numbers, Phils consulate's addie and phone # in Japan in case problems arise
TONNES of ENERGY and an OPEN MIND to appreciate the beauty of Japan its people and cultures

ENJOY! Ganbatte ne! ;)

BaLdoMarO

Aug 21, 2002, 02:32 AM

Originally posted by istarbaks
okashira - domo... :jap: what school are going? i'm from sophia and i stayed at the soshigaya int'l students house -really cheap dorm w/ complete facilities. where are you staying? pm me na lang kung may gusto ka pang itanong. soredewa...

hello to everybody :)
:wave: Hello istarbaks...Were you an exchange student in Japan?

istarbaks

Aug 21, 2002, 03:39 AM

Originally posted by BaLdoMarO
:wave: Hello istarbaks...Were you an exchange student in Japan?

i was a regular degree student. now i'm working in tokyo.

i guess you stayed for quite a long time in tokyo because you know a lot. nag pm si okashira sa akin and i replied back with some advice kuno. i thought guy si okashira-- muntik ko nang sabihin sa kanya na maraming magagandang klaseng condoms dito sa tokyo kaya no need magdala. buti na lang nakalimutan kong isulat. nung mag-reply siya ulit it was only then that i realized na lady pa la siya :glee:

soredewa, domo :jap:

BaLdoMarO

Aug 22, 2002, 01:25 AM

Originally posted by istarbaks

i was a regular degree student. now i'm working in tokyo. That's groovy! Studying in Japan is demanding daw according to some of my friends, did you find it strenously difficult? What careerpath are you in now? I'm planning of applying for a 'Working Holiday Visa' there as soon as I acquire my Diploma...

i guess you stayed for quite a long time in tokyo because you know a lot. well, I know enough to get me around the main landmarks, establishments and "suburbs" in Tokyo... My first time there, i stayed in Ikebukuro at one of those business hotels with my sis...EXPENSIVE indeed for what we got! The bathroom was CRAMPED as a tin of sardines!

nag pm si okashira sa akin and i replied back with some advice kuno. i thought guy si okashira-- muntik ko nang sabihin sa kanya na maraming magagandang klaseng condoms dito sa tokyo kaya no need magdala. buti na lang nakalimutan kong isulat. nung mag-reply siya ulit it was only then that i realized na lady pa la siya :glee:

soredewa, domo :jap:
:glee: ... the wackiest thing I discovered was the vending machine that dispenses vaccuum sealed used panties :rotfl:

istarbaks

Aug 24, 2002, 03:33 AM

Originally posted by BaLdoMarO
That's groovy! Studying in Japan is demanding daw according to some of my friends, did you find it strenously difficult? What careerpath are you in now? I'm planning of applying for a 'Working Holiday Visa' there as soon as I acquire my Diploma...
well, I know enough to get me around the main landmarks, establishments and "suburbs" in Tokyo... My first time there, i stayed in Ikebukuro at one of those business hotels with my sis...EXPENSIVE indeed for what we got! The bathroom was CRAMPED as a tin of sardines!
:glee: ... the wackiest thing I discovered was the vending machine that dispenses vaccuum sealed used panties :rotfl:

the studying thing... yes, kinda demanding. pero siguro depende na rin sa university. ako kasi, hindi ko gaanong iniintindi yung mga grades ko esp sa mga minor subjects ko... (bad boy :bop: ) i was contented to get A's in my major subjects and passing grades for the minor ones :D ... the reason is because i knew that what i took in college would not necessarily lead me to my career. indeed, having finished sociology, i now work as a systems specialist (kuno)... :glee: but the whole college time was fun!!!

BaLdoMarO

Aug 29, 2002, 11:30 AM

I scored another great packing tip from a friend.
For those of you who use undies, you'll be surprised that your old panties and briefs that are in tatters can still be used in your next expedition. Instead of disposing these to the bin, take them with you to your destination and dispose them each time you use it! Saves you a great deal of space in your bag! Neat Huh?:) :)

okashira

Aug 30, 2002, 12:28 AM

thanks for all your advice, istarbaks and baldomaro! :jap: iroiro na osewa ni natta!

i've been to japan twice before [last time was just last april] i've been studying japanese for almost 2 years now, i passed the level 4 japanese proficiency test... halleluia! i can safely say that i can understand some stuff pretty well, and i'm OK with reading [although not kanji! :glee:] but conversing is another thing... the deal is with language, you never kow how much you ALREADY know unless you practice with somebody. i already quit my japanese class at nihongo center manila because my teacher advised me to, since i'll be leaving soon [two weeks nalang!] and all. besides, all the former exchange students before me [some of whom didn't know a word of japanese] assured me that once i'm immersed in the environment, my listening/speaking skills would pick up. :) in the meantime, i've been making friends w/ the japn. exchange students in my university, AdMU.

thanks for the warnings about shoes and clothes! i'm already going shoe-shopping here...bought sandals, flats, high heels, and ordered winter boots online! fortunately i'm a regular size in clothes so buying there shouldn't be a problem. my mom was shaking my head and saying that i'm packing enough for 5 years! well, just the essential stuff --- medicines, my japn. language textbooks [can't live w/o em!] and my in-between clothes like baldomaro said.

and yes, istarbaks, i'm a girl so uh, no thanks for the advice about condoms! :lol: hahaha!!! but i'll pass along the tip to my male friends!

this is really a dream come true for me --- been wanting to go since high school!!! --- so i really appreciate all the advice you people have been giving me!!! :bounce:

BaLdoMarO

Aug 30, 2002, 03:15 AM

okashira and istarbaks
How about an EB when I visit Tokyo ulit? "Let's volt in" ika nga :glee: ... Punta tayo sa Sembikiya in Ginza where I had delicious parfait with my Jap "mom"..hihihihi
By the way, do you guys stay near Kamishakujii ?

istarbaks

Aug 30, 2002, 04:51 AM

Originally posted by BaLdoMarO
okashira and istarbaks
How about an EB when I visit Tokyo ulit? "Let's volt in" ika nga :glee: ... Punta tayo sa Sembikiya in Ginza where I had delicious parfait with my Jap "mom"..hihihihi
By the way, do you guys stay near Kamishakujii ?

sure thing...
okashira will live near kamishakujii, while i live in setagaya-ku, 15-min train ride from shinjuku... :)

BaLdoMarO

Aug 30, 2002, 06:11 AM

Originally posted by okashira
thanks for all your advice, istarbaks and baldomaro! iroiro na osewa ni natta! Anytime for a friendly PEXer like you

i've been to japan twice before [last time was just last april] i've been studying japanese for almost 2 years now, i passed the level 4 japanese proficiency test... halleluia!
Congratulations! I need to hit back to my Jap books and familiarize myself with Nihonggo again. My Nihonggo is somewhat spartan.
i'm OK with reading [although not kanji! :glee:] but conversing is another thing... the deal is with language, you never kow how much you ALREADY know unless you practice with somebody. I wonder why the Japs had to adopt the Chinese way of writing? There was a Jap scholar who went to the Netherlands for his studies in the 17th Century and proposed to the emperor to adopt 'romaaji' as an easier alternative to the "squiggles". You know what happened to him? His head was chopped off. :D
As for Kanji, Im only familiar to the numbers 1-10, Nihonggo, -gatsufor the months, yama, and hito...Lame huhh? lol...At least I still remember my Hiragana and Katakana. I've also mastered 'rommaji'...hehe...

i already quit my japanese class at nihongo center manila because my teacher advised me to, since i'll be leaving soon [two weeks nalang!] and all. besides, all the former exchange students before me [some of whom didn't know a word of japanese] assured me that once i'm immersed in the environment, my listening/speaking skills would pick up. in the meantime, i've been making friends w/ the japn. exchange students in my university, AdMU.I've an acquaintance who did not know jack in Nihonggo, went to Nagoya for a 6mnth exchange program and came back reading Japanese magazines and novels! Why can't I be like him? :D
You're doing the right thing! You're networking yourself to all these people who share the same passion for Japan. You'll find that they can be a tremendous support unit once you're there.

thanks for the warnings about shoes and clothes! i'm already going shoe-shopping here...bought sandals, flats, high heels, and ordered winter boots online! fortunately i'm a regular size in clothes so buying there shouldn't be a problem. my mom was shaking my head and saying that i'm packing enough for 5 years! well, just the essential stuff --- medicines, my japn. language textbooks [can't live w/o em!] and my in-between clothes like baldomaro said. Don't bring too much stuff! You might be able to score some nifty items as you travel around. How can a girl like you NOT be tempted to do a little retail therapy in the great Tokyo SALE? I went AMOCK last January and scored some great buys around Shinjuku! My neck hurt from the intense swivelling it did. My eyes could not be transfixed to one particular focus, it was always on a permanent LOOK OUT for anything unique! :bounce:

and yes, istarbaks, i'm a girl so uh, no thanks for the advice about condoms! :lol: hahaha!!! but i'll pass along the tip to my male friends! If condoms will not be of any help to you, how about infos on Love Hotels? :D

this is really a dream come true for me --- been wanting to go since high school!!! --- so i really appreciate all the advice you people have been giving me!!! :bounce: Ganbatte ne!

okashira

Aug 30, 2002, 09:17 AM

good idea! i dunno if i'll be able to post here often since i don't know where the good internet cafes are yet. but here are my email addresses:

kuzuryuusen@hotmail.com
sulkygrrl@yahoo.com

iba talaga pag may kilalang Pinoy sa ibang bansa!

istarbaks

Aug 30, 2002, 09:46 AM

Originally posted by okashira
good idea! i dunno if i'll be able to post here often since i don't know where the good internet cafes are yet. but here are my email addresses:

kuzuryuusen@hotmail.com
sulkygrrl@yahoo.com

iba talaga pag may kilalang Pinoy sa ibang bansa!

may computer room sa basement ng main bldg sa ichigaya campus.... use the stairs at the corner of the bldg, not the one facing the main entrance.

meron ding computer room sa bldg#? sa yotsuya campus. i forgot the bldg name pero madaling hanapin-- nasa harap lang ito ng main library.

BaLdoMarO

Aug 31, 2002, 02:35 PM

BaLdoMarO

Aug 31, 2002, 02:46 PM

what sort of clothes must you have when going away? Medyo vain ako kaya I tend to pack my whole wardrobe :lol: :bounce: :lol: Damn it, I need to be disciplined! :glee:

okashira

Sep 1, 2002, 05:55 AM

til sept of next year :) asteeeg! i hope i can improve my japanese significantly :)

istarbaks

Sep 3, 2002, 04:20 AM

Originally posted by BaLdoMarO
what sort of clothes must you have when going away? Medyo vain ako kaya I tend to pack my whole wardrobe :lol: :bounce: :lol: Damn it, I need to be disciplined! :glee:

the clothes i usually bring with me when travelling are made of easy to dry fabrics. i don't know the specific name of the fabric but it was written on the tag when i bought those.

i also pick out clothes that can be worn kahit hindi na plantsahin.

then i have sandals, and shoes that could be worn casually and at semi-formal situations.

i usually pack for three days- 1 shorts, 3 tshirts, 1 long sleeves, 2 long pants, 3 for underwear, 3 pairs of socks, a windbreaker and a light jacket. then i make the combination of these for extra days (puwera yung underwear at socks, ha?) at depende na rin sa weather condition.

siyempre, medyo iba kung hindi na summer sa destination.... :)

Camelot

Sep 3, 2002, 10:21 AM

i pack bare necessities, unless the out-of-town trip needs to be a formal affair, then that is the problem. i get too much formal clothes to mix and match. feeling fashion model ba?

one time a friend invited me to have a weekend at the hyatt, i brought a suitcase full of clothes, each for every function supposedly (weekend nga sa gym nga lang nagbabad), so i have to bring back the bulk i brought with me, un-used. all the while i just used my jogging pants, shorts, rubber shoes and a used up t-shirt.

toiletries, everything that can be accommodated by my toiletries bag.

slippers - espadrilles for me is still the best bet.

contact lenses, yes ever reasy to be taken everywhere, including all those liquid that goes with it.

hankies, definitely.

towels, yup - i just don't trust other people's towels. one time i slept overnight at a friend's house. i used the towel given to me by my guest. guess what, i got warts all over the next day. it is too expensive to have them cauterized. i learned my lesson, never use other people's towel even if they're clean. you might not know what will get into you.

lastly, a suitcase that can double as a seat or chair. some airports are just too jumpacked, you won't mind sitting on the floor, and get itchy later on....no way.

;)

BaLdoMarO

Sep 3, 2002, 11:43 PM

Originally posted by istarbaks

the clothes i usually bring with me when travelling are made of easy to dry fabrics. i don't know the specific name of the fabric but it was written on the tag when i bought those. Fleece made from Polyester?

i also pick out clothes that can be worn kahit hindi na plantsahin. so I guess natural fibers are out of the equation as they crumple a lot. The problem I have with man made fibers (nylon, polyester, viscose rayon etc...) is they do not let in air to cool off the body. You end up feeling scorching hot, and also, because the body cannot circulate the air around; hot air is trapped inside the garment, perspires you to death which then triggers your body to produce a stinking BO (body odour).[/QUOTE]

then i have sandals, and shoes that could be worn casually and at semi-formal situations. Shoes/Sandals/Runners etc give me headaches! I always antagonize on this because i can never decide which shoes/sandals to bring! :mad: The worse part is packing all these bcause they take up so much space in your luggage!

BaLdoMarO

Sep 4, 2002, 12:08 AM

Originally posted by Camelot
i pack bare necessities, unless the out-of-town trip needs to be a formal affair, then that is the problem. i get too much formal clothes to mix and match. feeling fashion model ba?

one time a friend invited me to have a weekend at the hyatt, i brought a suitcase full of clothes, each for every function supposedly (weekend nga sa gym nga lang nagbabad), so i have to bring back the bulk i brought with me, un-used. all the while i just used my jogging pants, shorts, rubber shoes and a used up t-shirt.
I can sooooo relate! :D I holidayed in Bangkok a few years back just for 5 days and I had 2 big luggage and 1 carry on full of clothes! I ended up using 2 t-shirts, pair of cargo pants, jeans, 2 pairs of shorts, 1 pair of slacks, 1 collared short sleeves shirt and 1 polo shirt; sandals and boat shoes, all of which took less than 1/2 the space of the big suitcase I used! :boom: The consequence? I couldn't buy heaps of bargain stuff and a sore back from lugging three luggage along when I got home! :bonkself:

toiletries, everything that can be accommodated by my toiletries bag. same here! hehe

slippers - espadrilles for me is still the best bet. They're awesome travel companions! They pack easily, they're light and they do not take up as much space as leather shoes, BUT , I see them as an "Old Man's pair". The kind of shoes pensionners, retirees and grannies would wear.

contact lenses, yes ever reasy to be taken everywhere, including all those liquid that goes with it. I just take disposable ones. Eliminates the need to soak/rinse the contacts and bring the bulky cleanser.

towels, yup - i just don't trust other people's towels. one time i slept overnight at a friend's house. i used the towel given to me by my guest. guess what, i got warts all over the next day. it is too expensive to have them cauterized. i learned my lesson, never use other people's towel even if they're clean. you might not know what will get into you. :eek: you don't use complimentary towels provided by hotels?

istarbaks

Sep 4, 2002, 08:20 AM

Originally posted by BaLdoMarO
I can sooooo relate! :D I holidayed in Bangkok a few years back just for 5 days and I had 2 big luggage and 1 carry on full of clothes! I ended up using 2 t-shirts, pair of cargo pants, jeans, 2 pairs of shorts, 1 pair of slacks, 1 collared short sleeves shirt and 1 polo shirt; sandals and boat shoes, all of which took less than 1/2 the space of the big suitcase I used! :boom: The consequence? I couldn't buy heaps of bargain stuff and a sore back from lugging three luggage along when I got home! :bonkself:
parang ganyan din nangyari sa akin. a few years back, nag-motorbike touring ako sa buong island ng hokkaido (japan) at sobra-sobra ang dala kong damit. pinadala ko tuloy thru post office yung excess stuff ko (addressed to my own place) :D

Originally posted by BaLdoMarO
I just take disposable ones. Eliminates the need to soak/rinse the contacts and bring the bulky cleanser.
i also take disposable lenses... tipid din ito sa oras that you don't have to clean/soak at kung anu-ano pang ritual na yan :glee:

privatesinger

Sep 4, 2002, 08:38 AM

hey guys... may-a-add *** akong importante... you should not forget to bring MEDICINE, any kind, basta hiyang ka... for colds, cough, flu, body pain. toothache, diarrhea, constipation, even vitamins... and toiletries, most important for me eh toothbrush/toothpaste, wet towel, tissue & pantiliner/napkin.

yun *** share ko :D

achtung_baby

Sep 4, 2002, 09:10 AM

doesn't anyone bring a tabo (water dipper) when going abroad??? i always do! di naman kasi uso ang tabo in other countries eh. :teehee:

BaLdoMarO

Sep 5, 2002, 06:20 AM

Originally posted by achtung_baby
doesn't anyone bring a tabo (water dipper) when going abroad??? i always do! di naman kasi uso ang tabo in other countries eh. :teehee: :rotfl: Id rather bring an extra pair of shoes than tabo :lol:... There are bidets in W/Cs in some hotels, or use a cup or champagne bucket, if u must :rotfl: Better yet, shower after a poop and clean your, you know what, there :lol: ... You were quite entertaining achtung_baby! :cool:

istarbaks

Sep 5, 2002, 07:28 AM

achtung_baby - talaga bang nagdadala ka ng tabo? i'd rather bring another pair of pants... :glee:

when you reach your destination, why not buy cookies in can tapos gamitin mo na lang as tabo yung can?

BaLdoMarO

Sep 6, 2002, 03:51 AM

Travel Insurance? Are you covered when you go away?

markpaul

Sep 6, 2002, 07:55 AM

If your leaving the country, dont forget to bring all the good traits you have and bring also many english words with you!

markpaul

Sep 6, 2002, 07:56 AM

If your leaving the country, dont forget to bring all the good traits you have and bring also many english words with you!

istarbaks

Sep 6, 2002, 01:11 PM

BaLdoMarO: you live in australia, right? do you know any place to buy cheap domestic air tickets? im looking for the sydney-melbourne and alice springs-sydney routes... yoroshiku :jap:

BaLdoMarO

Sep 6, 2002, 01:33 PM

Originally posted by istarbaks
BaLdoMarO: you live in australia, right? do you know any place to buy cheap domestic air tickets? im looking for the sydney-melbourne and alice springs-sydney routes... yoroshiku :jap: Hai! try www.webjet.com.au or www.virginblue.com.au ...Virgin has several specials posted on their website, the cheapest is A$140 for a Syd-Melb return flight (06:30 flight) then tops up to about A$199 for a 'flexible fare' tix. The 140 tix has conditions so check with Virgin on the restrictions imposed. Take note, Virgin tix must be purchased via phone or internet. Unfortunately, they do not have Alice Springs-Sydney route, you'd have to book QANTAS for that sector. The Alice Springs flights are expensive, they go for about A$600! webjet has a domestic special deal to ALice Springs, $890.00 TERRITORY TOP DEALS
Return economy air travel with Qantas. 3 nights accommodation at Outback Pioneer Hotel in Uluru. Valid for travel 1 November 2002 to 31 March 2003. Sale ends 21 March 2003. I hope these info help. when are you planning to come? ;) [b] Dozoo Yoroshiku Onegai Shimasu! :jap:

BaLdoMarO

Sep 6, 2002, 02:40 PM

Originally posted by markpaul
If your leaving the country, dont forget to bring all the good traits you have and bring also many english words with you!
Bringing good traits is a great attitude to pack along, but I think being Street wise is better, you're not easily deceived, you dont fall for traps/ploys by con artists, and u have enough guts to step out of your comfort zone and explore an alien territory...

istarbaks

Sep 10, 2002, 02:59 AM

BaLdoMarO: thank you for the info. so ansett is really out of the scene... qantas is very expensive for the alice springs->sydney route, and i have no other options! i'll be travelling to alice springs from melbourne via adelaide by train (the ghan) next year and i'm going to try the outback camp package i saw from the internet.

domo arigato gozaimasu :jap:

istarbaks

Sep 13, 2002, 09:58 AM

i've decided to go to egypt this coming november. but i'm just wondering, should i be bringing an umbrella (yung folding type)? i always bring with me my small umbrella but this time, in egypt, kailangan kaya ? :)

indiegirl

Sep 13, 2002, 03:49 PM

hey, don't knock the lowly tabo. bringing one on a three-month tour of europe was one of the best things i did. i stuffed socks and hankies in it so it didn't waste that much space in my luggage.

bring something that you can use as a clothesline when having to do your laundry by hand. drying your laundry behind the ref or on heaters may result in fried clothing, scorches or holes (believe me).

medicine, of course.

a camera, batteries and lots of film. your memories will be priceless.

a cotton sarong if you're going to a warm country, a big, light woolen scarf (square, not long and rectangular) if you're going to a cold one.

definitely moisturizer and industrial strength lotion/hand cream if you're going west. in europe the air was so dry that the thin skin around my fingernails started peeling and bleeding. eeew.

sunblock. even in cold countries the sun can be fiercer than you expect.

achtung_baby

Sep 14, 2002, 08:36 AM

Originally posted by indiegirl
hey, don't knock the lowly tabo. bringing one on a three-month tour of europe was one of the best things i did. i stuffed socks and hankies in it so it didn't waste that much space in my luggage.

yipee!!! at last, i found an ally in you, indiegirl--another staunch defender of the ever-reliable tabo!!! i've nothing against resourcefulness (e.g., using tumblers or even cookie cans [huh?] in lieu of the real thing) but i'm a creature of comfort and the tabo is one of the pinoys' intimate partners in the bathroom. nothing can take its place. :wink:

BaLdoMarO

Sep 16, 2002, 05:32 AM

I'm not scathing 'the ever reliable tabo'. I just don't see the need to carry one when backpacking around. It can be quite bulky to log around and i like the idea of having enough space in my luggage to fit any incidental items i may need to bring back home (ex. souvenirs).

BaLdoMarO

Sep 16, 2002, 05:55 AM

Originally posted by istarbaks
BaLdoMarO: thank you for the info. so ansett is really out of the scene... qantas is very expensive for the alice springs->sydney route, and i have no other options! i'll be travelling to alice springs from melbourne via adelaide by train (the ghan) next year and i'm going to try the outback camp package i saw from the internet.

domo arigato gozaimasu :jap:
Ansett has been out of the skies for almost 5 months now :deadhead: , so its QANTAS and Virgin that are dominating the air industry here, although Singapore Airlines and Air New Zealand have expressed interests in servicing some local routes, they will nonetheless find it tough to convince the ACCT regulatory board the need for their presence in the skies. There's a new airline that will start its operations Oct 2002 (I think its called Australian Airlines or something or rather)and it is a QANTAS spinoff to service the budget travellers, they will open 4 routes to Japan (Fukuoka, Tokyo, Osaka and Nagoya I think) HK, Seoul and key locations within Australia. Its function is to compete with Virgin on an intense price based war (similar to EasyJet concept in England). Let's just hope that Virgin will install an Alice Springs route or maybe Australian Airlines could place a permanent routing to the aforementioned city. :flyer: