My magnifique stay in Sofitel Manila

The red and yellow mood lights and the glittering crystal chandeliers created a perfect ambiance that enhanced the artful interiors of the newly unveiled iconic design of Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila‘s Grand Plaza Ballroom. The last time I was in this hotel was earlier this year when I attended a press event which featured a …

Visiting some Heritage Sites around Metro Manila

Heritage sites are aplenty in Metro Manila. The various towns and cities within the National Capital Region trace their roots since the 16th century so it’s no wonder that one can find many old buildings and structures around the metropolis. While there are very popular heritage sites in Metro Manila among locals and tourists alike, …

RORO from Manila to Bacolod

Taking the RORO: An Exciting Road Trip from Manila to Bacolod

It was an epic road trip that I have taken ever — a road trip from Manila to Bacolod via RORO, bringing my car with me in this whole adventure. This one took me to four major islands in the Philippines and six ports. More importantly, it was a road trip that led me back …

The story of the Rizal Memorial Baseball Stadium

Having worked in the city of Manila, I have passed by the Rizal Memorial Stadium several times without even glancing at the old structures of the complex. I have watched several sports events in this same complex, but I was more engrossed on the game than on my surroundings. Not until I was on a …

Preparing for a grand #RoadTrip2Home

This year, I will be taking one of the greatest travel challenges I’ll ever have in my lifetime. It is what I call my #RoadTrip2Home. After so much prayers, spiritual discernment, consultation, and self-reflection, I have come to accept that for me to embark on a life abroad I need to go back to my …

A lucky Chinese New Year adventure

Four ladies decided to brave Manila’s Chinatown in Binondo, said to be the oldest Chinatown in the world that was established in 1594, for the Chinese New Year festivities. Some friends forewarned us that Binondo would be crowded and we have to stay away from firecrackers. But it was really our day. The first day …

Exploring the Waterfalls, Rocks and Hills of Baler

Baler is a place of mystery and adventure. I stepped my right foot in between two rocks, not visible to my eyes as the raging water covered everything underneath my feet. After walking through a narrow pebbled pathway and crossed three flimsy bamboo bridges, we came to a point when land was no more in …

Costa Pacifica

First-time in Costa Pacifica Resort in Baler, Aurora

Our arrival at Costa Pacifica, a beautiful resort in Baler, Aurora, was greeted with a slight drizzle that threatened us to a day full of rain. The hot, citrus-flavored tea that Costa Pacifica offered as our welcome drink was perfect to ward off the cold and the tiring seven-hour drive (on normal times, Baler could …

First-time in Baler, Aurora: A Hidden Gem for Adventure and Relaxation

Nestled on the east coast of Luzon in the Philippines, Baler is a captivating destination in the Aurora province that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and thrilling experiences. Renowned for its pristine beaches, rich history, and exciting water activities, Baler has become a haven for adventure seekers and relaxation enthusiasts alike. In this …

Visiting 5 Pilgrim Churches in Metro Manila for the Year of Faith

While scrolling through Facebook one evening, I came across a notification from a friend with a link from the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Manila website, where Archbishop Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle designated five churches in the city as Pilgrim Churches for the Year of Faith. Pilgrim churches are sacred places of worship and spiritual significance …

My 5 best first-time travel experiences

Travel brings a world of joys and delights, igniting a sense of adventure and opening doors to new experiences. It is a catalyst for personal growth, broadening our perspectives and deepening our understanding of different cultures. The thrill of exploring unfamiliar landscapes, tasting unique cuisines, and connecting with diverse people creates memories that last a …

Festival de la Paella Gigante

It was a rainy Saturday afternoon. I didn’t know it was the beginning of a typhoon to hit our country. Good thing that I opted to spend it to a filling Festival de la Paella Gigante before we would be cooped inside the house for days. Anyway, we entered the historic Casino Español de 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 here may have closed or …

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 it closed down and the …

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, this year’s Yummy Eats gathered …