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.

The Trails of General MacArthur in the Philippines

General Douglas MacArthur was a celebrated World War II hero that played a significant part in Philippine history as he led the American troops against[…]

Our post Typhoon Yolanda Eastern Visayas volunteer trip

It was a memorable post-Yolanda Eastern Visayas trip and and unforgettable journey through Eastern Visayas after the devastating Typhoon Yolanda. Our group, comprised of 17[…]

First-time in the Sto. Nino Shrine and Heritage Museum

The Sto. Nino Shrine and Heritage Museum, located at Tacloban’s Real Street, is one of the city’s jewels that houses the antiques and valuable collections[…]

First-time in Tacloban City, Leyte

I have never expected that the almost year-long anticipation of my first trip to Tacloban would change at the last minute. Yet, it was for[…]

Tacloban

Volunteer Vacation in Tacloban & Basey

It was March of last year when I received a message from a fellow volunteer of Hands On Manila about a plan to go on[…]

Italia Bacolod

Eat is Bacolod! Must-visit restos in the City of Smiles

Bacolod: the City of Smiles; the capital of the sugar bowl of the Philippines, Negros Occidental. It comes as no surprise to find so many[…]

First-time in Campuestohan

Yes, Christmas is for the children. And also for the children at heart. So, on Christmas day, our family – from our grand aunt, uncle,[…]

Bantayan, Cebu

The road to Bantayan Island, Cebu

Pristine white-sand beaches, clear blue-green waters, fresh air, friendly ambiance — all these spell the beautiful island of Bantayan, a paradise found in the northern[…]

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[…]

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[…]

Masskara Festival

Behind Masskara’s Smile: The beginnings of MassKara Festival

I was eight years old and I was standing in front of my mother’s office right across the city plaza watching with awe the crowd[…]

First-time in Panaad sa Negros Festival Part I

“Panaad” or in local language (Hiligaynon), it is about a vow and fulfilling it. For 19 years, the province of Negros Occidental has been fulfilling[…]

First-time in Panaad sa Negros Festival Part II

Going around the Panaad Park, visiting the booths of all 32 local government units can be a bit taxing, though entertaining. But I decided to[…]

Mambukal Resort

First-time in Mambukal Resort

Having visited Mambukal Resort when I was still a toddler, I have so little recollection of what it’s like in this mountain resort. Everytime I[…]

More fun pic: Calauit, Palawan

Calauit seemed to be a forgotten island. It had its share of fame during the Marcos administration when it was developed as an animal sanctuary.[…]