B R E A T H E

(one)

I've 12 more days to go till the end of semester and then... I'll be done with school for good. I cannot even begin to say how happy I am. But of course, stepping into the oblivion of adulthood can be nerve wrecking. Well, I'll just wing it as usual.

(two)

How exciting is it that Christmas is just around the corner!! I can't wait to start my Christmas shopping!!!! Speaking of which, I'm actually very behind my schedule.... I was hospitalized for a good 5 days and only got discharged yesterday. 

With finals in school now, I can only shop much later ugh. And yes, FYI, Sephora will be having a Black Friday sale in a week's time!!! So that'd be a really great time to buy gifts for your loved ones (or for yourself also ok haha)!!! I'm eyeing a lot of their cute Christmas sets. Just wait for my updates on Snapchat for the 20% discount code hurhur.

Ming lightly dangled the idea of another Christmas gathering this year under my nose, and I got all excited!!! Omg... can't wait for Christmas.... ahhh hopefully this year's will be just as memorable as the last!!!

(three)

My friend, Katelyn, has just started her own brand to provide photography services! I think it's very admirable when one takes a leap of faith to pursue something that they're truly passionate about. If you ever need a memorable moment to be captured, you can definitely consider Katelyn.

She is very versatile and always patient to hear your visual or aesthetic vision.

Below are the pictures she captured of me for Revolve. Katelyn and I got to know each other at a studio shoot, and have never tried outdoor shoot. There isn't much directing for studio, and to see her in her own element and comfortably giving directions during our outdoor shoot is pretty refreshing. 

So if you like her work or need her services, look her up at www.instagram.com/whitegrandeur!

wearing H&M top, GRLFND Joan Crop Flare Jean, and ZARA boots

I'm not a pants or jeans person. It's hard for me to find the right bottom and, I love this crop flare jeans??!?!?!?!!! I mean, look at the raw hem... aww. Also, ya, it goes with most of the casual shirts I have.

(Product link here if you're interested)

GRLFND carries mostly denim apparels. If you're hunting for a good pair of jeans or anything denim, this is a good brand to start with. We all have a go-to denim shorts that we wear almost daily, and I got mine from GRLFND!!! I'm beyond happy especially when I hate shopping for bottom. (click!).

wearing Tularosa Mara Bomber

So here's the story: when I was asked by Hyunjin (the very sweet and understanding Revolve staff whom I correspond with - not bootlicking but she's rly very patient with my hectic school schedule) to select the pieces I like, I knew I need to get a bomber with some sort of flowery visuals. I don't know why I was so adamant but it's just something I want to check off my list. And so, I saw this. I was a little hesitant cause yknow... Singapore's weather c'mon. Nevertheless, I took a risk and got it. And to my surprise, hey........ it's lighter than I expected bruh. The material is really lightweight. It's not too hot for outdoor and not too thin for indoor (think cinema).

(Product link here if you're interested)

Ok. Tularosa is one of the brands I constantly keep a look out for (other than Privacy Please and Lovers + Friends). Go and check out their page (here) and you'll know why *wink* unless your style differs from mine haha. 

wearing L'Academie Maxi Shirt Dress

This is Ming's favourite out of the all. I don't have much to say cause I like the pants more.... haha. It's definitely going into my lazy-yet-presentable-enough get-up pile.

(Product link if you're interested)

(L'Academie product page)

Ok I'd love to stay and write more but time constraint guys.......... two papers next week!
Till then, love y'all!!!

IF YOU SOME TIME TO KILL

link: http://www.harpersbazaar.com/celebrity/latest/a18065/kim-kardashian-holdup-not-a-joke/

link: http://globalhobo.com.au/2016/09/29/dont-fall-for-the-new-hm-campaign/

There are a lot of brands and personalities out there who unethically exploit the sources of our self-doubt for business purposes in order to stay relevant. Consequentially, we as consumers might get lulled into a false sense of security and think that these brands or people actually care about us and that they can relate to our body-image/skin/etc. problems. 

So to reiterate: when brands or personalities milk the insecurities of women/consumers by disguising themselves as empowering figures for women, it's just damn wrong.

(but sian, I love H&M ughhhhh)

OCTOBER

(one)

It's already October.

That's fast.

Before we know it, it'd be 2017 wew.

(two)

My best friend, Shamo, told me awhile back that she's started writing again. Hoho, Shamo and I practically grew up together. We spent most of our formative years with each other. We've been friends for more than 10 years now, which is really amazing considering how selective I am with my human interactions. So Shamo has started writing recently, purely for her own personal pleasure. For some unexplainable reason, I'm really happy for her. I have been in a rut about writing and to see someone writing again kinda inspires me to do the same.

I haven't been as motivated as I had about writing and that sucks. I loved writing.

(three)

Quite awhile back, I met a good friend of mine from poly. We hadn't met in such a loooong time. Usually after you graduate, it'd be hard to keep in touch if you don't do it regularly enough. Chances are that if you ask a skeptical person, like myself, from out of the blue, he or she would probably think that you've some insurance policy scheme up your sleeves.

All that aside, I can't deny that it's actually really pleasant and nice to catch up with old friends, be they from primary school or a tertiary institution. Seeing how much they have changed and grown with time reminds me how much time has just passed right before my eyes //whoosh//

(four)

I'm graduating end of this year!!!! sRsly.... can't wait!! If you're in the same boat as I am, hang in there!!

----------- then again, at the same time, I really don't want to adult.

Google: How to stall adulthood

It didn't feel like it was too long ago when I was deciding what to do or where to go after poly and now, I'm at the same crossroad again. Most of my friends have just started their full-time job. It's crazy to think that for most of my life from this point on, it'd be possibly dedicated to only work. Monday to Friday, repeat. 

(five)

A few weeks back, over dinner, Ming told his family that he'll be applying for a social media manager role for this society club in school. Everyone was very supportive. So, am I!

Then, it just hit me how social media managers are given more respect and credit when bloggers, essentially, do the same thing if not more. Then again, yeah the rise of informal and unconventional occupations such uber drivers or bloggers might have robbed or discounted the rite of passage some have gone through to get where they are today i.e. driving 10 years to be a registered taxi driver.

Sidenote: Yi Ming did exceptionally well for the interview that they offered him a committee role hooray! Good job, babe. Proud of you!!

(six)

Unlike last summer, this summer I didn't do much. Ming was busy with his internship and I spent my time with him in Singapore. We did, however, travel to Bali. 

If you remember my old entry on Bali, you'd probably pick up the vibe that I didn't quite like Bali.... BUT this time round, I must say I really enjoyed every bit of Bali, so much so that I went twice!! 

I managed to check something off my bucket list this year: try surfing. If you haven't, you should. If you think you can't, think about how Irina can and therefore, YOU can too. 

(seven)

Here's another good news: Same time last month (9/9/16), Ming and I turned two (!!).

As we were just speaking about time earlier, it is even more evident now how it flies. It's funny how it feels like I just knew him not too long ago, yet on the other hand, it also feels like I have known him forever.

Ming is big on dates. He makes an effort to celebrate each of our monthsaries and yes, of course, our anniversaries too. He's a romantic like that, which is really cute. Once, he got upset because I didn't appear very keen on celebrating our monthsary.

I understand his frustrations because I would have been upset too, if I feel that my partner is not matching up to my level of excitement when it comes to celebrating our union. Ming then asked, "Have you always been like that?"

To which, I said, "No."

In fact, I celebrated all of my monthsaries in my previous relationship. Not because I loved more then, but I didn't think my past relationship would make it far. The longevity of the relationship actually surprised me. I was celebrating because I knew I was holding onto something short-lived. I was grasping for every elusive thread that I could hold onto to keep it going.

And now, "Ming, I don't seem so excitable purely because it doesn't surprise me at all that we can make it past each month. I'm excited for the years to come with you."

(eight)

Flea................ sorry guys, it's been difficult trying to find the right place to host you guys! Trust me that I want this flea to happen as soon as possible, I no longer have space for new clothes. I'm travelling this winter and I need space to store these thick and fluffy babies. 

Ming and I wanted to host it at our place but the thought of you guys travelling all the way to us, pains us. So bear with me while we find a place to fit everything and everyone and have fun together!!!!

Sorry for the lack of update but this is the last semester!

Nonetheless, I really appreciate you guys popping every now and then and checking in on me. 

♥ You guys are the sweetest ♥

YO BU SEH YO, KOREA!

Guess what? This was my Korea trip in August 2015 with Ming (and at the end, I featured a little of my June trip with mom lol). The draft for this post has just been rotting in a corner and I thought I should really publish it ASAP (it really is about time...). It's mostly visuals with some specific information on where to go, what to eat and where to stay. Some of you emailed me for tips, so I hope this helps! It may not be the most comprehensive guide there is on the Internet, but feel free to share with me your recommendations too!!!! I'd rly appreciate that :')

P/S I excluded Busan and Jeju in this post.

Yi Ming: This GIF makes me happier than it ought to

(more info below on where to eat)

Korea is well-known for its affordable spectacle-making services, so we decided to each make a pair!

Both  cost less than SGD100 each.

(more info below on where to eat)

(more info below on where to shop)

I didn't manage to buy any cushion foundation then because I was sooooooo tanned from my Europe trip!

We took a day trip out to DMZ and learnt a lot about Korea's history that day. We have so much respect for this country, which had/has to tirelessly fight or its independence.

(more info below on where to eat)

Yi Ming: Drunken cheek pinching after a single round of Soju

(more info below on where to eat)

Everland is both a full-fledged zoo and themepark! How amazing is that????

(more info below on where to eat)

Yi Ming: Unseen cut from this GIF is the part where she tries to take the whole rack with her

(more info below on where to eat)

Also, by now, you've probably realized how much we eat.................................

Yi Ming: The live octopus was actually really good!

Looking back at these pictures, it's amazing how much Ming and I have grown as a person, and as a couple over the year. Also, how much our appearances have changed(/aged).

Bought bb this baby!

Disclaimer: I'm no expert but these are the places I know of and frequent when I'm in Seoul! I'm sure there are better ones out there, so share if you know any! Thanks in advance hehe.

Where to eat

1. Yoogane Dak Galbi

Note: Both my mom and Ming love this place. It's a huge relief because my mom is hard to please when it comes to food haha. I'm not particularly in love with it but I'd have to say it's pretty good.

2. Andong Jjimdak

Note: I've tried Yeolbong's Jjimdak (by the Korean celebrity, Se7en), Wicked Jjimdak (famous for their jjimdak with cheese), etc. but I'm still on a hunt for the perfect one! Lmk if you have a favourite!!!

3. Saemaeul Sikdang BBQ

Note: I don't think it has the best samgyeopsal BBQ, but its 7-minute kimchi stew with the seaweed rice is a pretty dope combination!!!

4. Myeongdong Gyoja

Note: One of Ming's faves!!! Their gyoja will probably remind you of our xiao long bao. If there's only 2 of you, and you're not very hungry, I suggest sharing a bowl of noodle + one tray of gyoja! 

5. Jjajangmyeon

Note: I've always wondered how different is their jjajangmyeon compared to the Chinese's. I had the hotel staff (at Novotel Gangnam Seoul Ambassador) to help me call for a delivery, "Can you recommend me a good jjajangmyeon that delivers? Can you help me order?" I remember it being very affordable! The meal + delivery didn't exceed SGD7!

6. Bibimbdap

Note: I haven't found a place with WOAH bibimbap yet. Everywhere seems to serve pretty decent bibimbap hehe.

7. Jokbal

Note: If you're into pig's trotters, you can check out the Jokbal Street. I didn't go but the taxi driver mentioned it to me!

8. Samgyetang

Note: Ehhhh...... I'm sorry I haven't found a local and authentic place to recommend. I'll be a cliche and recommend Tosokchon. The taxi driver sniggered at it being the best representation of samgyetang. He wasn't very fluent in English hence, he didn't understand when we tried asking for an alternative.

9. Japchae Hotteok

Note: Ming and I love this shit!!! You can find it at Namdaemun Market. It looks like a mini pancake! On the inside, it's stuffed with glass noodles and fried vegetables. A-MA-ZING.

10. Kalguksu

Note: I always return to Namdaemun Market's Kalguksu Alley for what I perceive to be pretty authentic knife noodles. I quite like the experience of squeezing with the other ahjummas and watching how the locals interact in that tight space. (Yi Ming: In the last sentence, Irina has basically admitted to being an ahjumma) (Irina: hey!! hey!!)

11. Chimaek

Note: It's the combination of eating fried chicken wings and drinking maekju. I don't have a specific place to recommend but do try this out!

P/S: To all my Muslim readers out there, I'm sorry that my list isn't Muslim-friendly at all. However, I did notice how Korea is very accommodating to their Muslim tourists' dietary needs (definitely more so than some of the other countries I have been to)!

Me: basically eating all the time

Yi Ming: ALL THE TIME

Where to shop (for girls)
I'm not sure how I should begin to elaborate on each of these places. They're mostly same, but different? The Korea Tourism Organization website provides really good information on each of these places. They also include food and shopping recommendations - lol now I begin to second guess myself and the significance of this post. Nonetheless, I've attached the links below, if you ever need!

1. Hongdae - Hongik University Station (read more here)
Note: It is close to StyleNanda and Chuu store! They've got several really good shoes stores here as well!
2. Myeong Dong (read more here)
Note: If you need a place to do all the cosmetic shopping, Myeongdong is kinda ideal!
3. Ewha's Women University (read more here)
Note: Walking distance from Hongdae. As the name goes, the shops in that area sell more female apparels than male. For those travelling with a boyfriend and/or male friends, Hongdae and Myeong Dong would suit them better.
4. Garosugil (read more here)
Note: While the price point of the clothes being sold here might be slightly higher than the ones sold in Hongdae and Myeong Dong, you might be able to find more unique pieces here.
5. Express Bus Terminal (read more here)
Note: Underground shopping! Lower price range!
6. Konkkuk's University (read more here)
Note: Common Ground (the one with blue containers). Within that area, there is this road with consecutive sports retails. If you're looking to shop for sports wear, this is a pretty good place to start. They've cafes and mini bars in the same area too.
7. Dongdaemun (read more here)
Note: If you like shopping at Bangkok's Platinum mall, you should visit the old building next to the shopping mall (Doota). In it, the layout is very similar to Platinum. The clothes are also priced at an affordable range.
8. Namdaemun (read more here)
Note: It's a great place to shop if you've gifts to buy for mothers and grandmothers. Check out UV umbrella! I bought one for my mom and she loves it!!! Theres's a stark difference between the UV umbrella vs non-UV (in case, vendors try to cheat you). The UV one has an additional protective layer that prevents light from penetrating.


Where to stay
If you intend to meet people from all walks of life, I'd suggest staying in hostels! Hostels are a popular option in Korea, as it can be as inexpensive as only SGD15 per night. However, if you're travelling with your partner/family, it's always nice to fall back on what we're used to: Airbnb and hotels haha.

1. Airbnb

Our Airbnb host prepared all the information (transportation, food, shopping etc.) we needed in this file - mad useful!

If you're interested, here you go: https://www.airbnb.com.sg/rooms/6096466

If you're interested, here's the link: https://www.airbnb.com.sg/rooms/6629569

IMPT: If you're new to Airbnb, you should totally sign up here: http://www.airbnb.com.sg/irinatan for SGD40* credit! I know most of you are probably Airbnb users by now, but if you happen to have other unused email accounts, you can use it too! I have two, so I basically gave myself $60 credit hehe. The credit is legit free money for your next booking, so why not right?

*the rate flunctuates - sometimes it's higher, sometimes it's as low as $27

2. Bukchon Hanok stay at Bonum 1957 (read more here)

For aesthetic reasons, I definitely did enjoy myself staying at Bonum 1957. There were plenty of ootd spots, if you're into that. They have a good mix of traditional and modern rooms for those who with specific preferences.

Otherwise, objectively, it is situated strategically for tourists. The popular street behind Bonum 1957 leads directly to the Bukchon Hanok Village. It was never dull staying at Bonum 1957 because it is at the heart of the tourist spot. There was a lot to see and experience.

I also like that Bonum 1957 has a rooftop that gives an amazing overview of the area. James, who attended to my needs during my stay, is a local who speaks both Korean and English. If you ever need any recommendation on where to go, he's your guy!

3. Novotel Gangnam Seoul Ambassador

Due to reasons pertaining to security, moms usually feel more comfortable in hotels. This is the other hotel we stayed in. It's located in Gangnam, another popular district. I found out that the popular BBQ restaurants all seemed to be in the same area near out hotel (about 7 mins - walking distance). The hotel staff were friendly and they were very willing to help when I needed my jjajangmyeon delivery haha.

Also, I thought it's quite cute that they provided various phone cables. A Korean follower mentioned this is a common amenity in Korea, which goes to show how considerate and ahead they are in terms of hospitality and service.

Recommended Apps

I don't know if currently there are better apps out there that supersede these, but these below had definitely helped me in a way or another. 

1. Food: MangoPlate

Note: It's the Korean version of Yelp or Burpple. It helps to recommend and suggest food you can try around your vicinity.

2. Public Transportation: Seoul Bus and Subway

3. Taxi: KakaoTaxi

Note: It's their version of Uber or Grab.

Ok! Finally, it's the end of my very lengthy post. It feels good to complete something that was due a year ago haha. I hope you guys find some of these information useful. If you've anything cool to share, do share!!! I'd love to know them. Have a lovely week ahead people!