Melo Villareal
If you are following my social media accounts, you probably know how much of my time is dedicated to traveling. And that does not include meetings and errands that I fix just to maximize my time in Manila. With so many things to explore and do, I even missed a flight for a luxury staycation in KL last month.
Boarding for our Japan Flight via Philippine Airlines
What I love about my job is the travel opportunities it brings and, of course, the new friends I meet along the way. A couple of months back, I joined tour operators to explore Romblon‘s potential cruise-ship destinations, courtesy of DOT MIMAROPA. A few months later, I got an invitation from Travel People to join their Costa Victoria North Asia Cruise Online Influencers Fam Tour. Travel People is the Philippines preferred sales agent and shore excursion operator of Europe’s leading cruise company, Costa Cruises.
That’s what I love about traveling. Apart from the beautiful experiences, it also opens up many opportunities for me.
Day 1: Arrival in Fukuoka
Due to tight security measures following a terrorist attack in Davao City, travelers were advised to come to the airport at least four hours before. With too much excitement and just to make sure I would not miss my flight, I arrived at the airport half an hour earlier than required.
I immediately went to the check-in counter and was surprised to find it already open, unlike before, when check-in counters usually only opened 2 hours before flights. As for the additional security measures, I couldn’t see any difference, but overall, it was a fast and efficient process.
Our PAL flight was notably impressive, departing only five minutes behind schedule. The journey from Manila Airport to Fukuoka is quick, taking approximately 3.5 hours, which classifies it as a short-haul flight. The smooth boarding process and comfortable atmosphere contributed to a pleasant travel experience.
From the airport, Wil, Cora, Daniel, and I went straight to Hotel Nikko Fukuoka (hotel info) to check in and rest before our scheduled dinner with Regina from Costa Cruises. At around 7pm, we walked to Hakata Central Train Station for dinner at Ishikura Restaurant. I ordered Pork in Soy Sauce Bento since I’m cutting down on seafood. I recently found out that the uric acid in my blood is quite high. Pork may not be the healthiest option, but it’s the safest on their menu.
Our host mentioned that Fukuoka is renowned as one of Japan’s premier culinary destinations, renowned for its diverse and delicious local cuisine. I wholeheartedly agreed, especially after indulging in a memorable dinner at Ishikura Restaurant, where each dish showcased the rich flavors and artistry of regional Japanese cooking. After our hosted dinner, we strolled leisurely back to Hotel Nikko, which is conveniently located just a five-minute walk from Hakata Station, a bustling hub that adds to the vibrant atmosphere of the area.
We would have loved to stay longer to chat with bloggers from Hong Kong, but we had to go to bed early for our second-day activities in the City of Fukuoka.
Watch Cora’s YouTube video about how she got lost during our first day in Fukuoka, Japan
Embark on a dazzling journey as sea, sky, and shore come together to create an unforgettable adventure aboard any of the luxury ships of Costa Cruise Asia. For bookings and inquiries, please contact the Manila Trunkline at +632 65-8800 or the Mobile at +63 917 5001919. You may also visit http://www.travelpeople.com.ph.
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Costa Victoria North Asia Cruise Series:
Day 1: Arrival in Fukuoka, Japan
Day 2: Half-Day Tour of Fukuoka
Day 3: Tour of Maizuru in Kyoto
Day 4: Arrival in Kanazawa Port, Japan
Day 5: Arrival in Sakaiminato Port in Matsue, Japan
