Author: Issa
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Too Much Tech? Lessons from Modern Family and the Berenstain Bears
Screen time worries many parents. The constant exposure raises questions about…
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What was it like to run with a toddler and his father
It was still pretty dark when we headed out of the house so Cyd exclaimed: “Are you kidding me? It’s still dark outside.” That’s because we are not morning people and it was the first time we were joining a race as a family. Neil joined races several times; I did once before I got…
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The Superhost Balancing Act: Rewards, Realities, and Repairs
This morning, I started with a double dose of Airbnb excitement! First, I woke up to the news that we’d achieved Superhost status for the fourth time! Out of 99 stays, we’ve received 79 five-star reviews and just one four-star rating. Knowing that our efforts to create a comfortable haven for guests are appreciated is…
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Boracay with a Toddler: From Backpacker Bliss to Family Chaos (in the Best Way)
Remember Boracay? Sun-drenched days with Neil by my side, we’d disappear into hidden cafes, little sanctuaries with windows that framed the beach like a breathtaking painting. We were content to be silent observers, sipping on black coffee and watching in amusement as tourists, faces lit by a golden glow, marveled at Boracay’s legendary sunsets. Hand-in-hand,…
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From Fumbling to Flowing: My Unexpected Yoga Journey
Have you ever tried something completely new? Like, way out of your comfort zone? For me, that was yoga. I mean, I was not expecting much when I first stepped on the mat. But it turned out to be great for me and it helped me see my mind, body, and spirit in a new…
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Unforgettable Escapes: 10 Genre-Bending Films for Your Next Movie Marathon
I found this old list from way back in 2011, before “Netflix and chill” was even a thing! (Talk about a blast from the past). It’s basically a diary of a movie marathon I did – a whole month of flicks! We’re talking all genres, from laugh-out-loud comedies to epic adventures that’ll get your heart…
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From Empty to Booked: How a ₱1,600 Facebook Ad Filled My Airbnb
Ever wonder how to increase your Airbnb bookings? You clicked on this post because you want to know exactly how I used just ₱1,600 in Facebook ads to fill my Airbnb rental, Issa Suites, for May and June 2024. Are You Facebook Ads Savvy? If you’re already comfortable running Facebook Ads through Ads Manager (https://adsmanager.facebook.com),…
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Cebu Ocean Park: A Great Underwater Adventure for All Ages
Nestled within the SM Seaside Complex at the South Road Properties in Cebu City, Cebu Ocean Park offers an awesome adventure perfect for families with young children and older relatives. This massive ocean park (opened in August 2019) is brought to you by the same team behind Manila Ocean Park. Cebu Ocean Park is a…
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From Condo Owner to Superhost: A Year of Hosting on Airbnb
Transitioning from condo dweller to Airbnb Superhost wasn’t without its challenges, from listing optimization to managing guest expectations and handling unexpected situations. But these were all valuable learning experiences. Read on to find out what it’s like.
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A Quest for Refund: Reflecting on My Coco Life Insurance Purchase
Okay, if you’re like who couldn’t say ‘no’ to anyone, you’d understand me. We’ve ALL been there. You’re cruising through the mall hand in hand with your loved one when suddenly an overly enthusiastic salesperson appears out of thin air, promising you the deal of a lifetime. Remember those pushy credit card people? Multiply that…