Habitat for Humanity Philippines’ projects in Negros Occidental

Having worked with non-profits during my career, I want to dedicate some space here in my site for the good works they are doing, especially when it’s something that is happening in my province. One case in particular is Habitat for Humanity Philippines’ (HFHP) efforts in Negros Occidental to build homes for families in need. …

Holiday excitement at Northill Gateway

From a dazzling Christmas spectacle to another much-awaited ‘first,’ this Megaworld township never runs out of surprises to keep everyone smiling There’s so much to keep Bacolodnons excited about the Christmas Season as Northill Gateway, Megaworld’s 53-hectare township located right at the boundary of Bacolod City and Talisay City along the New Bacolod-Silay Airport Access, …

Park Inn by Radisson Bacolod is now open

While travelling is now allowed in certain countries and cities, there are still a lot of restrictions in place, especially for those where lockdowns are enacted now and then. But if you feel too overwhelmed being cooped in your home for over a year or several weeks and months, one option is to have a …

Megaworld Dominates Iloilo Office Market

At this time when travelling has many restrictions and requirements, my easiest and safest bet as destinations are those within the island of Negros and across the sea to Iloilo City in Panay Island. That’s the beauty and, at the same time, the challenge of living in an archipelago. I’ve been wanting to ride the …

First-time at the Phaya Thai Palace

It was a warm afternoon when we arrived at the Phaya Thai Palace or Phya Thai Palace in Bangkok’s Ratchathewi District. It plays a significant part in the royal family of Thailand as it was a Royal Residence during the reign of King Chulalongkorn or King Rama V. When we got there, there were only …

The international cuisines at Vikings Bacolod

Smörgåsbord. It is a word we often hear that is associated with having so many food preparations where you can enjoy a lot of choices. Merriam-Webster defines it as “luncheon or supper buffet offering a variety of foods and dishes (such as hors d’oeuvres, hot and cold meats, smoked and pickled fish, cheeses, salads, and …

The best Pad Thai at Thipsamai

Having been hooked to Korean variety shows, I saw on these travel programs where the cast visited the famous Thipsamai Restaurant in Bangkok, Thailand. I remembered scenes where there were lines outside, so it got me curious as well. My palate easily adjusts to local flavors and Thai cuisine is among the top in my …

GrabFood in Bacolod: your fave food at your doorstep

Bacolod City is always known for its sumptuous food offerings that one should try the various food products available locally. Restaurants and eateries dot different parts of the City of Smiles, which locals and tourists alike have come to enjoy. Now, you can feast on your favorite food in the comforts of your home, office, …

Going bananas over Merzci Special Banana Chips

It’s a must for every visitor of Negros Occidental to bring back home the sweet goodies of the sugarbowl of the Philippines. Take your pick from napoleones to piaya, butterscotch, barquillos, pinasugbo, caramel tarts, pastries, and so much more. The best place to get these delicious pasalubongs is Merzci Bread and Pastries, the producer of …

Digital living: a fiber of the future

Leaving Metro Manila and going back to the province was something I’ve never expected I’d do, yet it was the best decision I’ve ever made. The quality of my life has greatly improved and I realized it was the kind of life I had been wanting all along. Nothing can really beat home, and the …

Negros Food Juanders

Breathtaking beaches, beautiful mountains, colorful festivals and smiling people draw travelers to the sock-shaped island of Negros. Negros is divided into two provinces: Negros Occidental and Negros Oriental. But let’s take a closer look at Negros Occidental, the land of sweet surprises, and unravel the food discoveries they have there. What makes wanderers come back …

AirAsia’s new route: Manila-Bacolod

There are more reasons to fly and visit Bacolod City and the various towns and cities in the province of Negros Occidental as AirAsia, the world’s best low-cost airline, launched its daily flights between Manila and Bacolod. The maiden flight was held during the highlight of the 40th MassKara Festival of the City of Smiles. …

Tips on choosing the right wear for travel

Travelling is not just about going places and taking selfies in various landmarks. There are more things that need to be thought over when one takes a trip to another place, especially in a different country or continent. Time zones, weather, foreign exchange, visa requirements and all other important information have to be taken into …

Dining in Hanoi for first-timers

People young old seated on low stools outside eateries and cafes along the sides of the streets are a common sight when you roam around Hanoi’s Old Quarter. Despite the sweltering heat, locals and tourists enjoy a warm cup of coffee, a bowl of pho and Vietnamese cuisine in a non-airconditioned setting. There’s something attractive …

Upper East Mall envisioned as Bacolod’s first “green” mall

Megaworld, the country’s largest developer of integrated urban townships, is building a three-level lifestyle mall inside its 34-hectare The Upper East township in Bacolod City. Covering a gross floor area of 24,200-square meters, the P1.2-B lifestyle place Upper East Mall is set to become Bacolod’s new architectural landmark as it showcases a blend of neo-classical …