UPDATE: All travel posts have been moved to WhateverThereWas website.

Nothing prepared me for Tokyo. Well, to be honest we didn't have that much time planning the trip either. It was an impromptu decision for a year-end trip like we always do, and out of all the Asian countries we were listing down, Tokyo was one that point8cam and I have always wanted to go to, but never actually made a point to do so. Plus, point8cam wanted to go somewhere colder so he get to skate and not sweat like in the Tropics. I was hesitant at first (I'm more of the sun and sea kind of person) but then again, it's not always that we'd experience winter together.

Tickets bought, airbnb accommodation sorted and it was only waiting time until the day we board on that 8-hour journey to the City of Neons. It's not exactly my first time in Tokyo, but I was too young to remember much. We arrived at midnight, and with the amount of baggage (camera equipments and winter clothing) we had, point8cam didn't want us to get lost in translation heading towards our apartment so we got into a cab. The cabs in Tokyo charges and exorbitant amount, which is no wonder why most people opt for the train and buses instead. 

Our hosts were amazing, and the places they recommended and brought us too was indeed an unforgettable experience. We pretty much did not plan ahead, so we were constantly struggling with the journey from one place to another as most places are in Japanese. Only on our third or fourth day that we got the hang of the train lines and our hosts provided us with a Wimax portable Wifi router. Having internet in Japan is super useful so we can Google almost anything (that includes which stations to go to). Will give tips on how to get around and how much, next time. 

From the famous Shibuya crossing, to the Harajuku fashion, the best sushi in my entire life, endless amount of vending machines, amazing architecture and interior designs, weird sex toys shop and maid cafes, picnic in the park and more - Tokyo is one place I'd move to if I had the chance to.

Can't tell you more, but you will have to wait for my post soon! I've just currently quit my job, so I'm looking forward to a lot of traveling, blogging and producing in 2014!

If you want to get in touch with point8cam and I, email us at:

whatisup@point8cam.com

or

haniehidayah@gmail.com

If you're in my circle of friends, you'd know that I'm pretty much obsessed with Sephora. Like totally obsessed. I can spend time just gazing at the myriad of colours all the house brands have on the shelves. I can go crazy at those miniature versions of beauty products near the cashier.

FOR THE MAKEUP ARTIST

Sephora is known to have a plethora of cosmetic set selection and there's nothing better than gifting that makeup enthusiast one (or more)! I personally have the Makeup Academy set and still having fun trying out new shades and experimenting with looks. If the gift receiver is a Youtube Makeup Guru fan, budding makeup artists starting out or just love experimenting with colours, these items are just perfect!

FOR THE CREATIVE DESIGNERS

Truth to be told, I'm a total sucker for packaging. This explains why I have an excessive amount of Soap & Glory products sitting prettily on my bathroom shelves, even more than my body can take at a time! Sometimes, it's not just about having products that feel good on your skin - aesthetics play an important role as well. Those who are into graphics, typography, vintage posters, quirky packagings will love anything from Soap & Glory. My habit of reading shampoo bottles while showering is fulfilled with these items (Maybe that explains why my shower time takes forever) as they have humorous and catchy copywriting. If you don't believe me, spend some time at the Soap & Glory aisle next time you're in Sephora and I bet you'll be hooked. Did I mention that you'd smell totally edible too?

FOR THE GIRL WITH THE MILLION DOLLAR SMILE

For as long as I can remember (or when I started reading fashion/beauty magazines in college), I've always associated still with their revolutionary pen lip-gloss. Back then, lip gloss usually comes in a tube with a sponge applicator but Stila gave us the twist-and-apply concept that was insanely catchy! I do not fancy watery lip gloss so Stila's lipgloss was just right - the consistency and colour transferred very well from applicator to lips. I have the Color Me Glossy Set and still have not tried all! If you have  some kind of sisterhood going on, the set comes in three mini box of shades, so you can still give them to three other girlies of yours. 

FOR THE SOCIALITE

Tarte made headlines from their recent launch in Malaysia and being one of the most anticipated brands to hit our shores, they really sure do know how to package makeup for gifts this holiday season. I've got the best seller kit as a gift recently and I loved it! The eyeliner and lip crayon from Tarte is amazing! I have yet to try their other cosmetic products but the packaging is nothing short of luxurious and decked with good taste. Did I mention that they're also great for traveling? 

Get the kit for the Miss Jetsetter, the champagne lover and all things decadent. 

FOR THE COLLEGE SWEETHEART

There's nothing wrong about being too in love with prints and Too Faced took that to a whole new level. The palettes are packaged in lovely holiday prints, and the makeup is perfect for this festive season in shades of browns, gold and everything glittery. Checkout the Jingle All The Way iPhone palette, you'll be the coolest girl on the block when you whip out that tray of surprises!