Martyr's Shrine

First-time in Taiwan’s Martyr’s Shrine

It was late in the afternoon when we got to the Martyr’s Shrine. It was easy to locate it. From the MRT Dazhi Station, we crossed the intersection towards the bus station to get the buses heading to our left. The bus station posted a list of bus numbers and their route. We chose I13 …

National Palace Museum

Taiwan’s National Palace Museum

The National Palace Museum in Taipei is located near the hilly portion of the metropolis. It was an easy commute taking the MRT Wenhu Line. We got off at the Dazhi station, walked a few steps towards the tofu store and caught the B13 (Brown 13)bus. It was about a ten to fifteen-minute ride before …

Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall

First-time in Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall

Taiwan’s rich history can be traced from its founder and former President, Chiang Kai-shek. The Republic of China (ROC) has made Taiwan, formerly called Formosa or beautiful island to the Europeans, its seat of government when Chiang Kai-shek and his Kuomintang (Chinese Nationalists) moved to this territory after the Chinese Civil War. ROC now governs …

Ximending

Shopping at Ximending Taipei

Let us say that we got to Ximending Commercial Area by accident. Or something to that effect. I knew that Ximending is near our area, but I never imagined it to be right in our backyard, or behind our hotel. And I didn’t expect it to be so alive, just like Seoul’s Myeondong area. It …

Go Sleep Hotel

Go Sleep at Hankou, Taipei

Why should you stay at Go Sleep Hotel-Hankou when in Taipei? Unlimited drinks, which is composed mainly of different kinds of coffee, tea, apple cider, orange juice, grapefruit, and water, are accessible in its lobby cum dining area. An English speaking staff in their tourist assistance corner is friendly and willing to lend a hand. …

Taiwan

First-time in Taiwan: Exploring Taipei and New Taipei

Taiwan was like our next-door neighbor, often bypassed as a travel destination. If not for a friend who visited the country and convinced us to check it out, our mini-expedition would not have happened. In hindsight, I recall earlier days when friends contemplated going to Taiwan, especially during the height of Meteor Garden and F4 …

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 …

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 …

Spring 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. But we don’t find it …

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, and stumble upon hidden gems …

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 stroll through the lively streets, …

Seoul 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 Trick-Eye Museum is where reality …

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 be in the city where …

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 many retreat houses and religious …

Slow & Easy in Anilao

Fishes of various colors and sizes swarmed around us as my friends threw in bits of bread into the sea. It was delightful to be in their midst, some of which kissed my fingers, hoping to get some food from there. This is Anilao, Batangas, home to many underwater species in the Philippines. Yet, my …