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I am Ulyssa Elaine - Travel, Food and Lifestyle Blogger

I took Asiana Airlines during my trip to USA last December 2019 to January 2020. I bought the tickets a couple of months in advance. I was lucky that my dates fell during the winter season because I would like to experience a White Christmas.

Note: This review is for economy-class only.


» Asiana Airlines «

Asiana Airlines, headquartered in Seoul, is South Korea's second largest airlines. It is member of Star Alliance, the world's largest global airline alliance. Asiana Airlines is certified with 5-star airline rating for its quality.

» Asiana Airlines Philippines «

The ticketing office in the Philippines is located in Makati City.

Address:                    6F Salcedo Tower, 169, Dela Costa Street, Salcedo Village, Makati City
Website:                    https://flyasiana.com/C/PH/EN/index
Contact Number:       
63-2-8662-8000

I didn't book online and went to their ticketing office to address my needs. The staffs were friendly and attentive.

» Baggage «

Those economy-class passengers travelling to USA are allowed to check-in two pieces of 23-kilo bags and hand-carry of one 10-kilo bag free of charge. For business-class passengers, two pieces of 32-kilo bags and hand-carry of two pieces of 10-kilo bag are allowed.

But for non-US routes, business-class passengers are still allowed to check-in two pieces of 32-kilo bags but for economy-class, only one 23-kilo bag is allowed to check-in.

» Check-In and Boarding «

Bring a print out of your electronic ticket itinerary and receipt because it may required to present it at the immigration and check-in counters. 

The check-in was pretty fast as long as you have complete requirements. When I was in Manila, the check-in counter representatives paid attention to my special meal request. They were attentive and coordinated well on the cabin crews. They also asked if I have few concerns.

Note: You can also check-in online or through mobile app for faster transaction.

The boarding gates opened at the exact time and there were no delays.

» Seating «

It was my third time to fly with a 5-star airline. I love the seat configuration of Asiana Airlines on the economy class. During my Manila to Incheon flight, it was all 2-4-2 instead of 3-4-3 seat configuration. I didn't feel squished and I had plenty of leg and table space.

On my way to Seattle, Washington, the seat configuration for economy class was 3-4-3 but it was okay because it's not too tight.


» Temperature «

I didn't feel any dizzy at all on my roundtrip flights. It was warm and very comfortable. There were less turbulence, too. Thanks God! :)

» Customer Service and Food «

The customer service was great. The stewardess even helped me on securing my bag in the cabin. Before the airplane took off, they also asked me if I have few concerns.

I have few requests on my food and I often receive my food before the others. Not sure though if it's part of their protocols. I often receive Yeongyang Ssambap, their special menu.

» Manila <Philippines> to Incheon <South Korea>

» Incheon <South Korea> to Seattle, Washington <USA>

» Seattle, Washington <USA> to Incheon <South Korea>

» Incheon <South Korea> to 
Manila <Philippines>

» Entertainment «

The in-flight entertainment was great. There were lots of movies, music, games and even documentaries.


Asiana Airlines also have videos promoting on-board exercises. I tried the seat workouts and I felt better.


» Amenities «

Passengers travelling to the USA will receive a pouch with slippers and a toothbrush set. They also provide ear plugs and blanket.

But for my Manila to Incheon and Incheon to Manila flights, it wasn't provided but it's okay.

» Overall «

I was satisfied on my roundtrip flights and looking forward on my future travels with Asiana Airlines.
Wednesday, May 20, 2020 No comments
Hello readers! It's been a month since my trip to Seattle, Washington, USA. I had a long layover to South Korea, a total of 13 hours. My route was Manila (Philippines) → Incheon (South Korea) → Seattle (Washington, USA) via Asiana Airlines. Fortunately, Incheon International Airport provides free local tours to travelers with long layovers. It was a great decision to join at that time. 


» Conditions «

  • Those who are eligible to enter South Korea without a visa. Citizens from the following countries must hold a Korean transit visa: Egypt, Sudan, Syria and Yemen. 
  • In general, passengers who has a connecting flight to South Korea within 24 hours and travelling to the USA, Canada, Australia or New Zealand and has a valid visa to those countries.

Please consult South Korea's transit tour page for more information.

» Book Online «

It's better to book the tour online because it easily get fully booked. Walk-in is possible but it comes with first come first served upon arrival. 

You can head over to this link: https://www.airport.kr/ap/en/trn/trnTourMain.do for more details.


» Course Information «

There are 8 local tours to choose from according to your preferences. There are 1-hour, 2-hour, 4-hour and 5-hour tours. Each transit tours are led by English-speaking tour guide.

  • Temple Tour (1 hour) → Airport - Temple - Airport
    • Terminal 1 → 08:00~09:00 / 09:00~10:00 / 14:00~15:00
    • Terminal 2 → 07:00~08:00 / 08:00~09:00 / 13:00~1400 / 14:00~15:00
Credit: Incheon International Airport website
  • Paradise City Art-Tainment Tour (1 hour) → Airport - Paradise City - Airport
    • Terminal 1&2 → 10:00~11:00 / 13:00~14:00
Credit: Incheon International Airport website
  • Old & New Tour (2 hours) → Airport - Songdo Hanok Village - Triple Street - Airport
    • Terminal 1&2 → 15:00~17:00
Credit: Incheon International Airport website
  • Temple Tour (4 hours) → Airport - Jeondeungsa Temple - Deokjinjin - Airport
    • Terminal 1&2 → 8:00~12:00
Credit: Incheon International Airport website
  • Adventure Tour (4 hours) → Airport - Gwangmyeong Cave - Airport
    • Terminal 1&2 → 9:00~13:00 (Not available on Mondays)
Credit: Incheon International Airport website
  • K-Culture Tour (4 hours) → Airport - World Cup Stadium - Hongdae Street - Airport
    • Terminal 1&2 → 14:00~18:00
Credit: Incheon International Airport website
  • Tradition Tour (5 hours) → Airport - Gyeongbokgung Palace - Insadong - Airport
    • Terminal 1&2 → 8:00~13:00 / 10:00~15:00
Credit: Incheon International Airport website
  • Shopping Tour (5 hours) → Airport - Myeong-dong - Namdaemun Market - Airport
    • Terminal 1&2 → 13:00~18:00
Credit: Incheon International Airport website

» Transit Process «

  • While inside the plane, the cabin crew(s) will give quarantine card and arrival card for passengers who will travel to South Korea. Fill-out the form for easy transit process. Use TRANSIT TOUR as your accommodation in the arrival card.
  • From Manila, I arrived at Incheon International Airport at 4:30 am. The original arrival time was 4:40 am.
  • Asiana Airlines from Manila is Gate 14.
  • Follow Transfer signs but when you see the Arrival sign, go straight until you reach the Quarantine Area. Surrender the Quarantine card. 
  • Then, head straight to the Immigration. For foreigners, go to Counter C.
  • Tell the immigration officer that you reserved online for transit tour. Show your boarding pass, passport and printed reservation form (from email).
  • Questions asked: Do you have a US visa? Do you have companions?
  • No passport stamp. The officer will just give you an entry confirmation paper with your personal details: name and passport number as well as your date of entry and date permitted.
  • Go down to 1st floor and look for exit.
  • Surrender your arrival card to the officer.
  • Note that the you're not going to get your checked bags in the carousel because it will be sent straight to your travel destination.
  • Then, look for Gate #8. Beside it, you can see the Transit Tour Information Desk Desk #41 and #42.

» Transit Tour Information Desk «

The desk is open from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm only. Please be there at least 30 minutes before the tour starts. Prepare your online reservation form, passport, previous and next boarding pass.



I chose the Palace Tour (8:00 am to 1:00 pm) so I paid $10, for the palace's entrance fee $3 and for the lunch $7.

The officer will ask you to come back by 7:45 am for the meeting time. He will also give a transit tour pin (free of charge).


At 7:45am, participants made a long line and followed the tour guide to the very end of the terminal, where the tour bus was waiting. You can put your carry-on baggage and store it beneath the bus. Just make sure your valuables are with you.

» Actual Tour «

Luckily, Asiana Airlines is located in Terminal 1. The passengers of Terminal 1 are the first one, who will board the bus.

Note: Check the weather outside before the tour. When I got here, it was 0°C. Good thing that I was wearing thermal turtle neck, thermal leggings and thermal socks from Uniqlo. I also wore two layers of jackets from Uniqlo. It's not sponsored, huh.

Our tour guide was Jennie. She was very nice, warm and informative. Our first stop was Gyeongbokgung Palace. 

Photo grabbed from Free Korea transit tour Facebook page

I've been here last March 2016 but I didn't witness the changing of guards. It's good that I witnessed it this time.


The second and last stop was Insadong. We went to a traditional Korean restaurant. I ordered Bulgogi.




After the tour, we were dropped off at the airport.


» After the Tour «

Here are the steps that I did after the tour:
  • Get off the bus and get your bag(s) beneath the bus. The bus driver will help you get your things.
  • Go inside the airport and look for the elevator or escalator.
  • Head over to the third floor and look for the immigration.
  • Fall in line and do the common immigration procedures.
  • Then, go to your boarding gate (indicated in your boarding pass) or try other activities to do at the airport.

» Things to Do at the Airport «

Here are the main attractions that I checked that time:

  • Korea Traditional Culture Experience Center (T1 East) - Located in Terminal 1 near Gate 25.
  • Mini Classical Concerts - Located in Terminal 1 near Gate 27/28.
  • The Walk of Royal Family - Located in Terminal 1 between Gate 25 and 29.

  • Free Korean traditional clothes experience - Located in Terminal 1 near Gate 25. The event was only from December 14, 2019 to December 18, 2019 from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm. I joined and they also gave me free 2 postcards with my photo at the back.



  • Free call booths with surprises - Located in Terminal, near Gate 25. The event was only from December 14, 2019 to December 18, 2019 from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm. I got a free gift after joining the call booth.



You can check this link: https://www.airport.kr/ap/en/svc/attractionMain.do for more details on other attractions.

» Info «

Website:                        https://www.airport.kr/ap_cnt/en/trn/tour/trtour/trtour.do
E-mail Address:              transittour@airport.kr
Telephone Number:       +82-32-741-3139
Managing Team:             Airline Marketing Team
Thursday, January 16, 2020 No comments


While I was browsing the best seller products on Althea Korea, I bumped on this product, which has 5 stars and 800+ reviews. I checked the reviews online and decided to buy this product. Because I really want to try the product right away, I just bought it in Nature Republic store in Alabang Town Center instead. I will try to buy online next time (in bulk order).

Without further ado, what's interesting on this product? The product is made from 92% of Aloe Vera gel. Aloe Vera is rich in Vitamin C, E and beta carotene which gives it its nourishing and anti-aging qualities. 

Aloe Vera 92% Soothing Gel can be used for dry skin, which acts as a moisturizer. It can also help clear out break outs! Aloe vera contains salicylic acid to kill off the bacteria that cause acne. 

Below are the list on where and how will you use this product, which is based on Nature Republic's website: 



Below are the images of the product that I bought. It's an original one because I bought it from the actual Nature Republic store.
The back portion of the product.
This is what it looks like when opened.

How about you? Have you tried this product?
Wednesday, October 18, 2017 No comments
South Korea is one of the best countries we've been to. I've been to different countries and it's a must to have some apps installed on your phone to avoid get lost.







1. Subway Korea - This app was developed by Malang Studio Co. Ltd. "Subway Korea" app is a must-have app for subway travel in South Korea. The subway in South Korea is the most complex subway I've rode in my entire life so far. Using this app, our travel was smooth and relaxing. It offers real-time transit information, timetable, transfer info, station/area guide and so on.

Screenshots from App Store

The app is available in both iOS and Android platforms.

2. Google Maps - This app makes our navigation easier and faster. I won't elaborate more on how useful this app. 


The app is available in both iOS and Android platforms.

3. Facebook - Who doesn't need a Facebook app? This app connects us to people and places. We can also share updates, post photos, videos of our trip.



The app is available in both iOS and Android platforms.

4. Messenger - We can instantly reach people - for free. We don't need to load our sim or register to international roaming to contact our loved ones. On our South Korea trip, we usually contact our parents for our whereabouts. 



The app is available in both iOS and Android platforms.

5. Instagram - With the use of the app, we can capture and share our memorable moments of our trip. 

The glimpse of our South Korea trip from my Instagram account


The app is available in both iOS and Android platforms.


How about you? Have you used the apps mentioned above? Can you suggest more? 
Saturday, July 16, 2016 No comments
Incheon International Airport is the largest airport in South Korea, opened in March 2001. The airport is consistently named as the best airport in the world (ACI’s Airport Service Quality) for 11th year. 


It was nice and privilege to travel in Seoul. Our seven-day vacation trip was such a blast! We experienced the authentic Korean food and culture that we're dreaming of since high school years.



Me and my sister have to go back on our home country. I felt the sadness in our hearts. 😭



Thank you God for such a wonderful blessing! Hoping to get back in Seoul soon. Aja! 💪



How about you? Have you been to Seoul? How was your experience?
Saturday, July 16, 2016 No comments


Hello Kitty was part of our childhood life. We usually watched Sanrio: Hello Kitty every Sunday when we were kids. Actually, I love Hello Kitty because of its theme's color, which is pink (my favorite color).

Without further ado, our plan for our last night in Seoul was to explore the Hello Kitty Cafe in Myeong-dong. It is located 3 minutes away from Myeong-dong MRT Station and from our hotel.


View from the Outside


Hello Kitty Myeongdong branch is located in the second floor of a building. Sorry I forgot the name of the building.

The Cafe

1. Instagram-worthy chairs 



2. Hello Kitty Displays (not for sale)


3. Souvenir Shop


4. Cute themed restrooms


The Food

There are plenty menus to choose from.



We just ordered different sets of dessert. Here's what we ordered:


1. Hotdog Set (Chilly, Cheese, Boston) - KRW 8,000


2. Bread Set - KRW 9,000


3. Waffle Set - KRW 10,000


Location


Info

Location: 28 Myeongdong 4-gil, Myeongdong 2(i)-ga, Jung-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Website: http://www.hellokittycafe.co.kr/en/


How about you? Do you love Hello Kitty? Have you been to this place? Share your experience.
Monday, July 11, 2016 No comments
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