First-time Travels

Through the eyes of the uninitiated.

Discover your untapped potential and become the hero of your own narrative, where every day is an opportunity for a new, epic adventure.

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[…]

First-time in a Holi Festival

Braving the scorching Manila sun, my friends and I went to the Seaside Boulevard of the SM Mall of Asia to join in the fun[…]

First-time in MNL Boutique Hostel: A backpacker’s haven

Backpacking in your own city — it’s not a new concept but it’s neither something that most people do. Recently, I tried being a backpacker[…]

First-time in Solaire Resort: A Luxurious Oasis of Entertainment and Tranquility

They are out to change the game. And I want to believe that they are a step into it. Solaire Resort opened its doors to[…]

First-time in Suzu Kin

I agree. The best places to visit are those recommended by locals. I haven’t heard or read about this particular Japanese restaurant. The taxi I was[…]

Paliton Beach

It’s More Fun in the Philippines videos

Smiles. Laughter. Fun. Whatever the circumstance is, Filipinos always find a reason to inject humor or joy into it. And with the catchy campaign “It’s[…]

A Fan-filled Chinese New Year

First came the firecrackers. That’s to drive out evil spirits. Then colorful Chinese dragons and lions dance to a certain beat that would definitely draw[…]

A Peek into Manila Hotel’s Suite Life

One hundred years seem to be a pretty long time. When you enter the grand lobby of the Manila Hotel, it gives you a feeling[…]

First Solo Trip to Vigan

A Facebook post from a fellow traveler caught my eye and piqued my interest. There was an international conference on cultural tourism that will take[…]

The Nutcracker at the Manila Hotel

Giant Nutcracker soldiers filing at the sides, wreaths hanging on the wall, candy canes set on table centerpieces – all these now fill the grandoise lobby of the Manila Hotel, bringing[…]

Kamana Sanctuary

First-time in Kamana Sanctuary

The photo of their Casitas was enough for me to agree to a weekend getaway during the long holiday in observance of All Saints Day[…]

Free Freedom Island

…from trash and other ecological threats. Freedom.  Such a powerful word, and something that is close to a traveler’s heart. For instance, I relate traveling to[…]

Dinner Cruise at Manila Bay

Fascinating. This is how I describe our dinner cruise adventure at the Manila Bay. Onboard Prestige Cruises, my friends and I (we were about 20)[…]

First-time in Star City

Colorful shapes, fun games, and guiltless pleasures – this is the magic of childhood. And so I found my feet leading me to Star City,[…]

Tagaytay: the City I Love

Tagaytay is a city like no other. No neon lights but only the stars in the sky. No towering skyscrapers but only houses on the[…]