Gunpla Expo 2017 + Dong Won + Pyromusical Competition

IT WAS A BUSY Saturday for me because I’ve been to the first-ever Gunpla Expo in the country, dined at Dong Won Korean BBQ house and watched the 8th Philippine International Pyromusical Competition---all of these in just one day! Whew! Tiring, but all worth-it *huge smile*

I’ll be sharing the whole experience below, so please continue reading. 

GUNPLA EXPO

Attending the week-long Gunpla Exposition at Mall of Asia was already planned. Mr. J is a certified builder and collector and he would certainly never miss the opportunity to secure some rare kits, which are expected to be sold at the venue. When we arrived at around 3 o’clock in the afternoon, I felt so discouraged to go inside because of the huge crowd, and even felt hopeless when I saw the long line at the cashier, which already reached the other end of the hall. But still, we tried to fit ourselves in the narrow spaces between the shelves. As I looked at the kits, I felt the urge to buy and try to build one for myself *wink* But the thought easily slip off (I still have a lot on my plate, maybe some other time though) and I just went on and observe the builders/collectors as they scrutinize each kits. 

Even if you’re not a gunpla builder, you’ll absolutely enjoy the expo because there are a lot of gundam exhibited at every corner of the hall. You’ll learn about the history and evolution of gunpla, take a closer look at the different “grades” (classification of gunpla) and have some photo op with life-size gundams; I can’t help but take pictures of these perfectly-assembled models! There must really be a great satisfaction when one finishes a model and even greater when it has been personalized or modified. I fully understood how strong the “poison” that these kits secrete, which makes the builders go crazy! (the term  “poisoned” is part of their jargon, which means “went mad over gunpla kits”). 

GRAY & BLACK. Comfy in shirt + skirt + sneakers + backpack

HAPPY KID. Supporting his "pagka-lason" in building and collecting gunpla.

During our first visit, Mr. J got himself three kits. After a few hours, when his older brother arrived, he snatched two more kits! (poisoned indeed). Two were super rare in the country while the other three are just good deal because they were on discounted prices. After a few shots, we left with a grumbling stomach. 

GOING KOREAN and FIREWORKS

Our cravings for Korean food lead us to Dong Won Korean BBQ House. The supposedly casual dinner became extraordinary because it was the second leg of the Pyromusical competition. The restaurants situated at the veranda of Mall of Asia (facing the bay) were all exclusive for reservations, or walk-in guests, at that time, so as to prevent bystanders in watching the show for free. The rates of food on the menu are a bit higher than usual because of the privilege to watch the firework show; grilling has been ceased as well as part of the mall’s security protocol for the said event. At first, I thought it was not a good idea, but when the food was served and the show started, I realized that it was a worthy deal. 

SHOW YOUR BANDS. China did pretty well on their 15-minute firework display. 

DOUBLE-DATE. Continuously burping over bibimbap, samgyupsal and beef stew.

The food at Dong Won weren’t super exceptional to be honest, so if you’re craving for yummy authentic Korean food, I don’t recommend the place; unless you are just up for the “grilling” thing and Korean experience, then the place can be a good start (just don’t visit during the Pyro event, no grilling remember?). But of course, since the food was consumed over a lovely conversation and under the glowing sky (because of the firework display), it became really special. 

JUST SOME USEFUL TIPS

If you’re planning to visit the Gunpla expo, make sure you do it ASAP because it'll only run from February 25 - March 5, 2017. Moreover, I suggest you wear comfortable clothes so you can move around easily and won’t be soaked in sweat. Now if you’re a builder who’s on a tight budget, you must know what you want first and bring just enough money at the venue. You’ll get “poisoned” for sure and spend way beyond your budget, especially if you don’t have strong self-control. But what is the most important is that you have your camera ready because there are a lot to be captured! 

SEA OF GUNPLA ENTHUSIASTS!

On the other hand, it was my first-time to watch the Pyromusical show while eating dinner and it was a nice and super “sulit” experience! You may want to try it as well, with your family and friends perhaps. Just keep in mind that there are special rules applied. If you’ll be dining at one the restaurants located at the veranda, the entrance is at the right side of Coffee Bean; a reservation will also be helpful, but not really necessary.

No plans for Saturday yet? Use this post a guide! It’ll be a wonderful experience for sure :)