Owning a PlayStation 3 launch model in 2020

This week, I was able to score a first model of PlayStation 3 (CECHA00) through Facebook marketplace. Owning the first model is what the retro collectors are hunting, especially when the unit is in pristine condition. This console is what I dreamt of when it was launch wayback in 2006.

PlayStation 3 CECHA00 60GB model

Why I think the first PS3 model special? Because of the console's backwards compatible with PS2 and PS1. Another selling point of the console is capability of upscaling the PS2/PS1 games thru HDMI output, making game graphics of previous consoles more clearer in modern TV's (up to 720p resolution). Second generation models used software emulation of the PS2, until it was removed on models CECHGxx and up. The launch and second generation models are the only units that has 4 USB ports.  

PS3's font is based from the movie SPIDERMAN

The first model has its share of cons and problems such as; very expensive launch price at $599, a heavy unit, I had difficulty in carrying the console while commuting. It weighs around 5 kilos. And lastly, the infamous YLOD or Yellow Light Of Death. The cause of YLOD is still unknown but some say that it was caused by too much heat in the motherboard that makes the console to stop working and produced a yellow light in its indicators. I must admit that I have to careful in using the console, as I have bought it second hand. I have no idea if this console had a history repairs regarding YLOD or other defects. 

PS3 launch model is the only PlayStation console with four USB ports

Nowadays, the first PS3 model in good condition is rarely seen in the local Buy and Sell market. I have seen an abundant number of first model, but it is located in the Junk section of the second hand shops in Japan. Luckily, I was able to snagged it for less than 60 USD locally. I was able to play music games through PS2 to USB adapter from Elecom, as most music games in PS2 do not use USB ports. I have plans of upgrading the storage, as I have an extra HDD with 500GB capacity.

Buying this console in 2020 is already retro as every gamer called it, but its features coincides with the current standards of eighth generation of consoles. Fortunately, the console can still use the PSN directly, although no new games was being released despite it was officially discontinued in 2017. In November 2020, Sony will released the PS5 (PlayStation 5) console.

Which is better: Full service or Low Cost carriers?

 Every time I fly international, I always look for the best prices that airline company can offer. Anticipating seat sales and promotions of every each airlines. But which airline suits your budget? A full service airline or a budget / low cost carrier. In the Philippines, there are a lot of Full service and Low cost airlines that serves the country. Our country have two full service airlines, while 3 carriers are low cost that serves international routes. 

All Nippon Airways Check-in counter in MNL

Full service airlines are airlines that offers complimentary inflight food, selection of onboard entertainment, baggage allowances, and amenities (for Business / First Class or for long haul). If you have extra money your class can be upgraded from economy way up to First class. Low Cost Carriers (LCC) are no frills airline, you are only charged the basics, beyond that you have to pay extra. Seats in LCC are cramped, short legroom, and one class in one aircraft. Filipinos are price sensitive when it comes to air travel. They intend to booked their dream destination during seat sales and travel dates are months prior without too much pain in their wallets (In which I am guilty of). In rare occasions, there are some routes that LCC serves that are more pricey than the Full service.

Air bridge view of parked aircrafts in MNL (2018).

During my international trips, I never tried Low Cost because I just wanted to enjoy my travels without too much hassle and I don't want to worry in regards to my baggage limits (because a buy a lot of things). A friend of mine told me that they had a problem to this Low Cost airline pertaining to bulky baggages. They bought a quite number of Gunplas in Narita Airport, upon check-in, the agent said that they have to flatten the Gunpla boxes. That friend had no choice but to follow instructions however, the Gunpla kits will be vulnerable in breakage, as these parts are brittle and small. As for full service carriers, they have no problems with the luggage as long as the passenger abides with linear dimensions and pieces of luggages with assigned weight per class. 

ANA's Inflight entertainment screen. PAL uses a mobile app to avail its inflight entertainment.

Full service airlines offers frequent fliers mileage to passengers, once hit a certain mileage they can redeem it for free flights or class upgrades. Full service airlines has codeshare partners in which you can earn and redeem miles as well. Normally, LCC doesn't offer such mileage. Nowadays, passengers can accumulate points even you are flying LCC (i.e. Cebu Pacific and AirAsia).

An ANA fragile tag.

It doesn't matter what kind of airline you choose, as long as it fits to your budget and needs.

We are all hoping that this pandemic ends, as of now, all airlines around the globe are suffering from this pandemic and hoping global tourism returns to normalcy.

Uniqlo's Airism Face mask!

Today, I received my Uniqlo Airism face mask which I bought from a friend who are into selling of Japanese goodies. Uniqlo's Airism face mask became a hit in the land of the rising sun, as locals swarmed to the nearest store to buy the mask. So popular Uniqlo have to increase production of the Airism mask as most of the Uniqlo stores in Japan ran out of stocks fast.

Uniqlo's Airism face mask

My friend sells the mask for 850.00Php in white color. In Japan, it retails for 990 JPY + tax. In one pack, there are 3 washable mask with different sizes to choose from (Small, Medium, and Large). Tried the large size and it fits perfectly to my face. It also breathable (from my experience) and the ear lace doesn't irritate the ear over prolong use. The face mask consist of 3 layers that protects the user from Ultraviolet rays and bacterias and droplets.

In Japan, it retails for 990 JPY + tax. Pricing may vary from country to country

There are reports that some customers are having difficulty breathing while using the mask, the company made an update of their mask released last August 2020 with some changes and additional color variant (black). 

The Airism face mask is also available on selected countries such as US and Singapore. A report from Rappler last August that Uniqlo will introduce the Airism face mask in the Philippine market. Although, no confirmation as when it will be available nor official statement / advertisement from the retail giant. 

For the time being, online sellers sells these mask ranging from 800 ~ 1,000PhP or wait until Uniqlo Philippines finally made its announcement.