Originally, I was going solo to explore Dumaguete, a bucket-listed place. That was until a couple of good friends, Alex and Boo, decided to join me. Three is a good number. Hotel bills can be split three ways and more importantly, since it was going to be a “food trip”, three dishes (or more)…
It’s one of the most beautiful places to see in Kyoto. In fact, it ranks as one of the most visited. Thousands of vermilion torii gates set up closely creating a tunnel. I just had to see it for myself. In fact, it would be great to recreate that “Memoirs of a…
A number of UNESCO Heritage Sites, National Treasures and Special Places of Scenic Beauty, what else can make you go to the ancient capital? Try Jidai Matsuri. It’s one of the three great festivals of Kyoto, along with the Aoi Matsuri and Gion Matsuri. All three are celebrated annually on October 22, May 15…
It’s only the second day in the city and it felt like I’ve been here for a week. That’s how much there was to see in this ancient capital. Day 2 listed more Unesco World Heritage Sites to visit. First up: the Nijo Castle. The flatland castle is located a couple of…
ON THE list: visit as many United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization World Heritage sites in Kyoto as I can. I had five days in the ancient capital of Japan and that was my plan. First up, the Tenryu-ji Temple. It’s nestled at the foot of the mountains on the western outskirts of…
It’s strong, resilient and very much part of Japan’s culture: the bamboo. It’s in a folklore and used in expressions, you’ll find it in the cuisine, plays an important part in festivals, it’s used for construction, handicrafts and art, and perhaps, in so many ways, a lifesaver, because the people are told to run…
ARASHIYAMA. The image of the bamboo forest comes to mind. The path of the tall grass was the only thing I know of the place, but there was so much more the area offers than the verdant trail I desired to traverse. There are Kyoto attractions, just like the Tenmangu Shrine at the end of…
DO: Fly the ultralight plane When in Mati, before you hit Dahican’s surf do check the waters—from above ground. There’s no better way to do that than taking a ride on an ultralight plane. The light plane aerial tour of Mati City by Mindanao Saga Flying Club (MSFC) must be topping…
If you’re the seasoned traveler chances are you have done a research on the best sites to visit in your next destination. For first timers, the list may hold the usual popular attractions, which could probably become favorites and worth the revisit on the next trip. The excitement of travel lies on the unexpected….
First order of the day: visit the market. It is not just any market, but Nishiki Market, Kyoto’s go-to place to acquire the best traditional foods, ingredients and kitchen-related goods. It’s the largest traditional market in the city and the locals refer to it as “Kyoto’s pantry”. Arriving…
