Samsung Galaxy S5 launched in Japan — in 2 variants of pink

By | May 21, 2014
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The Samsung Galaxy S5 added two new hues to its lineup. Initially released with four color options — Charcoal Black, Shimmery White, Electric Blue and Amber Gold— it has been confirmed that the device will be launching in Sweet Pink and Champagne Pink as well, but only in Japan.


“Sweet Pink” is a deeper shade that will be offered exclusively through carrier NTT DoCoMo (Photo: SamsungTomorrow)


“Champagne Pink” is a duller hue that will be exclusive to carrier KDDI (Photo: SamsungTomorrow)

Samsung points to things like cherry blossoms, Hello Kitty and the popularity of pink clothing as reasons for its decision to launch pink Galaxy S5 models in Japan. According to SamsungTomorrow, this particular offer was made specifically for Japanese users, based on consumer preference research.

Samsung has similarly launched a pink version of the Galaxy Note 3, Galaxy S4, Galaxy S3 and the Galaxy Note 2. I personally do not like the way the S5 looks. It reminds me of band-aids! That rose gold hue of the Champagne Pink variant is gorgeous, though. What do you think of the pink Galaxy S5?

Ladurée Haul

By | April 18, 2014
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As you have probably read from my entry about my Ladurée experience, we also got some mementos that day. This time I’m gonna show you the rest of the boutique and my small haul.

Souvenir display – Tea boxes displayed behind the counter

Shelves of candles and parfums

Got 2 charms which came in these dainty little boxes

Even the paperbags and bill looked dainty!


Rose Keyring (¥2,808)

And this Violet Bag Charm (¥3,024) with a life-size macaron for my aunt who loves purple

Here’s my lovely keyring in use ;)

And lastly, the icing on the cake, the cherry on top: THE MACARONS

A box of 6 macarons (¥2,376 – ¥350+tax/piece)

Flavors from L-R: pistachio, rose petal, salted caramel, vanilla, citron, Marie Antoinette

And yes, in case you’re wondering, their macarons aren’t overrated. Melt-in-your-mouth, like the flavors are slowly spreading out your tongue. They’re the best I’ve tasted. By far.

Ladurée Salon de Té in Nihonbashi, Tokyo

By | April 15, 2014
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Ladurée has always been one of the cafes I have wanted to try for so long. When I went to Japan, it was undoubtedly in my itinerary. The branch we visited was the Salon de Té in the Mitsukoshi department store in Nihonbashi. The store I actually wanted to try was in the Mitsukoshi Ginza branch, but my mom mixed it up with the Mitsukoshi in Nihonbashi. She’d make a bad tour guide. :))


A wide array of beautiful pastries

These red pastries are eye-catching

Initially, I only wanted to buy some souvenirs and a box of macarons, but we went inside the salon for some tea. The interior of the salon is really beautiful. It’s got some sort of a Victorian vibe to it.





Clockwise from the top: Ispahan, Butterfly, Saint Honoré Rose Framboise

Saint Honoré Rose Framboise (¥1004, ¥907+tax) Rose petal, rose water Chantilly cream, raspberries compote with fresh raspberries on puff and choux pastries

Butterfly (¥1015, ¥918+tax) Macaron biscuit, poppy mouselline, citron flavor and fresh strawberries

We also bought some souvenirs and macarons (which I will write about next). I will be honest that the price could be a little over the top. We paid ¥15,000+ (Around $150) for two key-chains, 6 macarons, 3 pastries and some tea/coffee. This is a luxurious place afterall — but is definitely worth it for such a luscious delight.

LADURÉE NIHONBASHI MITSUKOSHI
Honten Honkan B1F, 1-4-1,
Nihonbashi Muromachi, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
〒 103-8001
Tel: 03-3274-0355