First-time in Bang Pa-In Royal Palace

Bang Pa-In Royal Palace was built during the 17th century during the reign of the Ayutthaya Kingdom. Located at the Bang Pa-In District, 24 km south of Ayutthaya, which is about 20-30 minutes away. Roger, our guide, began his introduction of the place by letting us know that the Ayutthaya Kingdom had 33 kings. There …

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 …

Wat Saket: The Golden Mount Temple

Although I have been to Bangkok several times, it was only in 2019 that I have learned of Wat Saket through the Korean travel variety show, Thrifter’s Guide to Luxurious Travels or Salty Tour. The first trip they took for the new season in 2019 was to Thailand and they visited this less touristy temple, …

Sunset at Wat Arun

I have always viewed Wat Arun from across the river several times, sometimes waiting for the sunset and watching the lights go up at the temple. This time, I decided to see it up close, a good decision I might say. Before, I thought Wat Arun was plain gray, but when I recently visited Wat …

The Grand Palace in Thailand

Elegant signature Thai architecture protruding from the long block of white walls greeted us as we approached the Grand Palace complex in Bangkok, Thailand. Memories of my first visit in 2001 flooded my mind, yet I can only vaguely recall the details of every corner of the palace compound. Constructed in 1782 during the reign …

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 …

Living La Dolce Vita in Negros Occidental

A trip to Negros Occidental can be summed up in one word: Manamit! It means yummy, flavorful, appetizing, good taste, delicious and so much more. But it does not only refer to its food. It is how life in this part of the country is all about. La Dolce Vita or the sweet life is …

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. …

9 Things to do in Rapha Valley

If you want to have a staycation near Bacolod City but where you can be close to nature, then Rapha Valley at Don Salvador Benedicto (DSB), Negros Occidental is the perfect destination for you. You can spend the weekend by yourself, with your partner, or with family or friends. Stay the whole time inside Rapha …

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 …

El Nido travel guide

El Nido is indeed one of the most wonderful locations on the planet! The tropical paradise is one of the 7000 islands in the Philippines, and the island is sure to keep you entranced for life. It is indeed one of the most beautiful places ever seen what with those soft white beaches and blue …

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 …