Author: Claire Algarme

  • Singapore at Night: The city all aglow

    Singapore at Night: The city all aglow

    Grandiose structures light up as the sun sets late over the Singapore horizon. Then you’ll see the many attractions of Singapore at a different light, figuratively and literally. You can indulge in the magical allure of Singapore after dark. Be mesmerized by the shimmering cityscape, lively night markets, delectable cuisine,…

  • The Rich Heritage and Vibrant Culture of Singapore’s Chinatown

    The Rich Heritage and Vibrant Culture of Singapore’s Chinatown

    Welcome to the vibrant and culturally rich neighborhood of Singapore‘s Chinatown. Nestled in the heart of the city, this historic enclave is a captivating blend of traditional Chinese heritage and modern cosmopolitan charm. As you step into its bustling streets, you’ll be greeted by a symphony of sights, sounds, and…

  • First-time in Rucksack Inn

    First-time in Rucksack Inn

    In my travels, I’ve stayed in luxury hotels, boutique hotels, hostels, guesthouses, and inns. Yet, I always enjoy staying in hostels, like Rucksack Inn. Not only are they affordable but they are a good venue to interact with fellow travelers. I found Rucksack Inn as I was searching the internet,…

  • Singapore Revisited: Rediscovering the Lion City’s Endless Delights

    Singapore Revisited: Rediscovering the Lion City’s Endless Delights

    My return to Singapore was a unique adventure – a chance to acquire new knowledge and become the trusted guide for my fellow travelers. In this journey, I witness Singapore through renewed eyes – myself as a seasoned traveler and my companions as eager first-timers. You see, every initial journey…

  • Places to Eat in Manila

    Places to Eat in Manila

    My nights seem to be filled with so many friends and food. Both go together most of the time. I have three eating joints I spent with friends this week and they have their respective specialties. It was like traveling through three countries. [UPDATE 2023: Some of the restaurants listed…

  • First-time at Le Bistro D’Agathe

    First-time at Le Bistro D’Agathe

    Almost everyday, I pass by this corner house with red door and artsy walls. A signage states “Le Bistro D’Agathe“. Though I lived within the neighborhood, I’ve never actually tried the place. I was more familiar with the old restaurant housed in that corner lot, Fat Michael’s Place. But after…

  • Your Story: Tips for First-time Travelers to Spain

    Your Story: Tips for First-time Travelers to Spain

    Everyone loves to go on holiday and enjoy themselves for a week or two, forgetting all of the stress and hassle at home. Discovering a new place I have never been before is a feeling that I have always loved. I really like the smells, sounds and people that I…

  • The Yummy Food Trip

    The Yummy Food Trip

    It was a gastronomical journey that did not require me to be on the road all day. Yummy Eats, the annual eating and cooking fair of Summit Media’s Yummy Magazine, gave me the food adventure that allowed me to stay indoors. Held at Taguig City’s NBC Tent at the Fort,…

  • “One Year Lived” free e-book

    “One Year Lived” free e-book

    I get a lot of propositions in my First-time Travels e-mail every now and then. I read through them all and choose which best suits my interest and my blog’s theme. Recently, I received a message from a memoirist and traveler, Adam Shepard. He is one of those who are…

  • Spring in Seoul

    Spring in Seoul

    Spring. Living in a country where the weather is sunny, except when there are rains and typhoons, it’s not easy to differentiate spring from summer. In the Philippines, the flowers bloom all year round and the sun is always out. All I know is that when spring comes, cherry blossoms…well…blossom.…

  • Seoul Unveiled: An exciting adventure aboard the Seoul City Tour Bus

    Seoul Unveiled: An exciting adventure aboard the Seoul City Tour Bus

    Reflecting on my Seoul City Tour Bus adventure, I am filled with awe and gratitude for the unforgettable journey I experienced. From the majestic palaces and bustling markets to the serene hanoks and lively landmarks, I had the freedom to explore Seoul’s iconic landmarks, immerse myself in its rich culture,…

  • First-time in Myeongdong: Unleashing the Delights of Seoul’s Vibrant Heart

    First-time in Myeongdong: Unleashing the Delights of Seoul’s Vibrant Heart

    Missha. Etude House. The Face Shop. Nature Republic. Holika Holika. It’s Skin. A’Pieu. Skin Food. And the list goes on. This is Myeongdong, the bustling heart of Seoul’s shopping scene. This vibrant district is renowned for its array of branded stores that cater to every fashion enthusiast’s dream. As you…

  • First-time in the Trick-Eye Museum

    First-time in the Trick-Eye Museum

    If you think museums are booooring, think again. Here’s one that will let you roll on the floor laughing. Seoul’s Trick-eye Museum is one that will whet your photographic appetite. The paintings and the lightings are designed in a way that visitors can become part of the artwork. The Seoul…

  • First-time in Seoul: An Adventure into the Vibrant Heart of South Korea

    First-time in Seoul: An Adventure into the Vibrant Heart of South Korea

    Our Seoul jaunt was a trip to remember and one for the books. My cousin-friend Corr and I flew to Seoul, South Korea with mixed emotions. For about four months, we were planning our Seoul trip with excitement and enthusiasm. With some influence from Koreanovelas and K-pop, we’ve wanted to…

  • Pilgrimage to Tagaytay: Serenity in Nature’s Scenic Splendor

    Pilgrimage to Tagaytay: Serenity in Nature’s Scenic Splendor

    As a Christian nation, the Philippines regard Holy Week as an important part of the calendar. On a Black Saturday, my friends and I embarked on a short pilgrimage to the city of Tagaytay. Because of its cool weather and relaxed setting, Tagaytay has become a location of choice of…