As Alex the lion, Melman the giraffe, Marty the zebra, and Gloria the hippo escaped to Madagascar and to Africa, we also had a little escapade of our own into a small island in the Calamian group in Palawan, called Calauit. It’s a wildlife sanctuary created by the Philippine government. Since we had to catch …
Coron is one of the must-see places in my list of destinations within my home country, the Philippines. Together with Busuanga, Culion, and several islands, they form the Calamian group of islands in the northern tip of the Philippine province of Palawan. Though not as hyped as Bali or Boracay or Phuket or any beach …
“LA is great big freeway…” so the song goes. And big freeways, indeed, fill the Los Angeles landscape. Next to rows of palm trees, of course. My good friend Cathy was kind enough to host me all throughout my LA trip right after the conference which I attended in San Francisco and take me to …
Forty-five hundred people. Thirty-something new friends. A grand opening session. This has been the biggest conference I have attended so far. This was the National Conference on Volunteering and Service (NCVS) 2009. It was a gathering of various non-profits, government agencies, and corporations all over the United States. So, why was Hands On Manila part of …
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It was my first time in San Francisco, California. In fact, it was my first time in the US. On a bigger scale, it was my first time across the Pacific. I went to the US to attend the 2009 National Conference on Volunteering and Service as a representative of Hands On Manila Foundation, an …
Sentosa is an island in Singapore that has been home to the tiny state’s major recreation spots. The once fishing village island was formerly known as “Pulau Belakang Mati” which literally means as “island”, “behind” and “death” because so many people died at the other side of the island during the World War. It was …
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The eastern side of the Mindoro Island—Oriental Mindoro—is known for the white sand beach at Puerto Galera. Apart from Boracay, it is one of the most sought-after beach destinations in the Philippines because of its proximity to the main island of Luzon. Despite its popularity, this writer, unfortunately, has not ventured anywhere this famous beach. …
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In Shenzhen, a bustling metropolis, I embarked on a transformative journey that revealed the world’s wonders within one city. It was an extraordinary voyage where time and distance seemed irrelevant. Shenzhen, a gateway to boundless exploration, offered travelers a unique chance to witness a kaleidoscope of global marvels in just a day. Shenzhen opens a …
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More and more Filipino and foreign tourists are finding themselves on the road towards the exquisite beach called Anawangin. A hidden gem in the province of Zambales, Anawangin is about three to four hours from Manila, the capital of the Philippines. It was a place where the boundaries between reality and fantasy blurred, where nature …
As dawn breaks over the sprawling cityscape, Bangkok emerges from the shadows, unveiling a mesmerizing blend of modernity and tradition. With the Chao Phraya River running through it, this pulsating metropolis captivates the senses with its vibrant street markets, aromatic street food, and ornate temples that stand as testaments to its rich cultural heritage. Skyscrapers …
Macau is a fusion of the East and West. There are Chinese influences everywhere as evidenced in its temples and the Chinese features of the people. At the same time, it has remnants of the Portuguese descent from the old churches to some food and restaurants. The first thing to do when in Macau is …
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“Selamat datang.” Welcome to Jakarta, the vibrant and bustling capital city of Indonesia! Situated on the northwest coast of the island of Java, Jakarta is not only the largest city in Indonesia but also one of the most populous cities in the world. Known for its rich cultural heritage, diverse population, and thriving economy, Jakarta …
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Found at the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula, Singapore emerges as a captivating city-state that defies expectations. This modern metropolis is a harmonious tapestry of innovation, cultural diversity, and natural beauty. Imposing skyscrapers punctuate the skyline, while verdant parks and gardens provide an oasis of tranquility amidst the urban bustle. Singapore’s streets buzz with …
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Donsol, a hidden gem at the eastern coast of the Philippines, where breathtaking encounters with gentle giants await. Located in the province of Sorsogon, Donsol is renowned as the whale shark capital of the world. Here, you have the unique opportunity to swim alongside these magnificent creatures, known as “butanding” in the local language. Beyond …
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It was an unforgettable jaunt to the mesmerizing city of Hong Kong, where East meets West in a captivating fusion of tradition and modernity. Located on the southern coast of China, this dynamic metropolis boasts a breathtaking skyline adorned with towering skyscrapers. From bustling street markets to tranquil temples, Hong Kong seamlessly blends vibrant street …
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