Artistic World~

Grace and Obedience and Sunsets

2019-06-15T21:34:00.000+08:00

I don’t know If it is because of the landscape, because this is Africa or just generally I love sunset as one of many themes I use in photography as it gives me (and mostly photographers) an amazing ray of lights, and generally known as the golden hour.

When looking at the skies and in sunsets, I’m reminded by two things:

One. That we are bound to phases, the beginning and the end. That in every morning there are grace that is new and freely given to us. That in every situation there’s an ending, an ending of suffering from a long night of battle. I love that I learned the meaning of grace. I keep reminding myself and the people around me the essence of grace. That just like God, He gives us grace every morning, fresh and warm, so as an unworthy being in a vast galaxy, we too have to extend grace to everyone, especially those that may not be on the same side as ours, culture and understanding.

Being here in Zambia and learning social differences from the Philippines (my home country) sometimes makes me wonder. There are social practices that are appropriate in Zambian culture that are not in the Philippines and vice versa. But as I engage in my community and starting conversations, I learned to accept the beauty of diversity thus makes me more gracious to everyone here in my place of assignment and even in my home.

“fix your eyes on this one truth, God is madly in love with You

So take courage, hold on, be strong, Remember where our help comes from”

-Good grace, Hillsong United.

Seeing sunset every day, I’m reminded of beautiful and ugly endings. Whether it was a long night or not, joyful or sorrowful, a grace and hope is waiting tomorrow. That we, as disciples of Christ should extend Grace to everyone.

“Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness”

-Lamentations 3: 22 – 23.

Two. The owner of this perfectly planned world is the One who wants me and my heart, I am precious, beloved. Whenever I travel, I see beautiful creations of nature that my mind can’t fathom. And whenever is see these wanders, it inspires me to obey the One who sent me to the ends of Africa, my God, my Saviour and Father. These creations--- plants, trees, weather, insects, birds and many other creatures obey the Great I Am, so who am I to disobey? Who am I not to worship, who am I to not follow?

“And as You speak, a hundred billion galaxies are born,

In the vapour of Your breath the planets form,

If the stars were made to worship so will I, I can see Your heart in everything You made…

If creations sing You praises, so will I”

-So Will I (100 billion X), Hillsong United

So whenever I see sunsets, I’m reminded of two things: Grace and Obedience.

“Grace did not just save Noah, Obedience too”

Sunset in the town of Kalomo, Zambia where i am serving as a Global Mission Fellow.

Know more about my works in Zambia, Click here.

Travel Guide: Livingstone, Zambia & Victoria Falls

2019-05-30T05:39:00.002+08:00

I never thought in my life that I’ll be living in Africa, enjoy it or visit Livingstone, see the wildlife and the famous Victoria falls! I had the chance to visit this place together with the youth of my placement site, Pilgrim Wesleyan Church and my fellow missionaries. Hop along as i guide you through this beautiful place in Zambia here in Africa!

Day 00

0600 – 1000 Travel to Livingstone

I am living an hour and a half away from Livingstone, but to make sure that we would be able to cover everything on that day, we woke up and traveled early.

with PWC - Kalomo

1100 – 1200 Livingstone Museum & Mukuni Big 5 Safaris

The Livingstone museum is a must place visit in Livingstone. It tells you the history of the place, the way people lived and living in Zambia. There’s even the real things of David Livingstone, the missionary and first white man who discovered the Mosi-oa-Tunya falls, now known as Victoria Falls, named after Queen Victoria of England

Posing at the Livingstone Museum

You can pay to have a chance to play with baby lions (3 years old). It's one of their activities in Mukuni

Don't worry, Lions here havs the chance to go out from their cages and time to hunt daily in the afternoon.

Mukuni Big 5 is a park where you can see elephants, Lions, Cheetah, Caracat and other more. This is not a game drive but a protected park for these animals. They are taken care of here, in fact, their life span is higher here than in the wild.

1400 – Mosi-Oa-Tunya (Victoria Falls), the Smoke that Thunders

Inside the falls, there are places that you need to check. As you enter, there will be a free tour guide that will orient you about the things you can do inside the falls. These are Knife bridge, Photography view, Boiling pot and many other more.

The view of the Victoria Falls bridge from the Knife bridge inside Victoria Falls

The view in the knife bridge, the rainbow is constant

As you enter the park, you'll notice a lot of monkeys. You have to be careful because they're very aggressive,
take care of your things and definitely not allowed to feed them.

If you go follow trails in the falls, you'll see different sides of it and stunning views like this one!

This is the view of the falls as you enter and approach the knife bridge

Tip: It’s better to visit the falls in rainy season (December – April) so you would see many water in the falls and be actually soaked in them!

You can trail down to what they call "The Boiling Pot". The trek is really steep and physically challenging,
so if your knees cannot take this, you better have to consider going down.
The Boiling Pot is called like that because the water at the bottom as the water hits the ground
is like a boiling and stirred water.

Monkeys are everywhere especially as you trek down in the Boiling Pot

Don't forget to greet people and have small talks as you trek

Another stunning view in the Boiling Pot as you see what's below in the Falls and the Victoria Falls bridge.

Day 01

0800 – 0900 - Railway & Jewish Museum

Zambia was colonized by Brits, and they brought the railway system in the country and that’s what’s being preserved in this museum. You would even be able to see the actual train they used in 1800s as the first class passengers and the actual waiting shed.

Not everyone know that Zambia is also a place where Jews flown during the Holocaust. This place also holds the Jewish Museum and exhibits the life of early Jews, their friendship with Zambians and how they started new life in this country.

Here's a litlle bit about the Jewish Museum inside the Railway Museum.
We were the only ones inside as this place only have few tourists unlike other spots in Livingstone.
A great way to know the History of Zambia in 1900s.

This is the actual spot where passengers before sit down as they wait to board the train.
Truly Nostalgic so as the pose that we're trying to make here.

You'll also see different kinds of trains here, the tour guide is free.
They will explain to you everything about the train history in Zambia!

Tip:

If you’re a resident or holding a working Visa, just present your visa and you would not pay the $20 entrance fee for foreigner but only be paying around ZMW 10 = $1.00

1000 -1100 - Reptile & Crocodile Park

Pools of crocodile are here and the education about them can never be bought. Black Mamba, African Spitting Cobra and other snake species are also present. In this place they take care of these animals, they also sell crocodile oil.

Tip: Pay ZMW 50 / $4.00 to feed the crocodiles and see how they behave like dogs when you feed them!

You can pet the baby croc for free -- at your own risk!

1200 – 1400 - Victoria Falls Bridge

The famous bridge that connects Zimbabwe and Zambia. You can see different and breath-taking views of Victoria falls, people bungee jumping and zip lining here!

1600 – 1800 - Zambezi River

Zambia was named after Zambezi, a home to many African animals in Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park and the Island in Zambezi river. You’ll have the chance to see different animals but not guaranteed. But Sunset? You’ll definitely be able to see a majestic one!

Nothings tops Africa when it comes to beauty of nature, vast and diverse animal species. What's I like about living in Zambia is the people, they greet you as you walk and keeps you safe!

Let me know your thoughts in the comments and remember to share this with your friends!

You can download our itinerary here for free.

Videos: IGTV | Facebook | Youtube

Indochina: Bangkok | Part 2

2019-04-28T16:49:00.000+08:00

If you are used with noisy cities and vast skyscrapers, Indochina should be removed in your list.
However, if you are seeking simplicity, diversity, history and quietness, this is the region where you should go!

We seizde Indochina starting off in Hanoi, Vietnam – Vientiane, Laos – Bangkok, Thailand in a five day country crawl.Here's a travel video to sum up all what we had:

Day 05

0009: China town/Breakfast/Golden Buddha

It’s our last day of the tour and it’s really good to have Filipino friends to tour us around the city.

I like how the streets of Thailand look like, it was a hot and traffic-congested Saturday morning. But what fascinated me the most is the scenic Asian scene like Philippines and Thailand but there you can still see their differences.

We started our day with the intention to see the Golden Buddha. But as DIY and budgetarian people we are, we opted not to see it because we have to pay it and also there are other Buddha available in the complex.

Sorry to disappoint but this is not the Gloden Buddha, this is another temple that can be found inside the same complex.

This is the outside view of the Golden Buddha temple in Bangkok

1200: Lunch

We miss rice during the trip so we decided to eat in a Chinese restaurant as it gives us the option to have rice for the day.

0200: Chatuchak

The most famous and biggest tiangge in Asia is Chatuchak! Undeniably the scenery was festive and the items being sold are undeniably cheap. So next time you come to Thailand or you plan to visit, bring an extra cash to shop as your pasalubong (gift item) when you go back home.

Street foods are always a thing in Asia. It's a must in Asia travels!

0500: Going home

Our flight was on the same day but we had enough time to pack and still enjoy our way back home

It was a beautiful tour and we truly learned a lot seeing the similarities of Asians and their culture. We cannot tell the differences of texts of Laos and Thais but definitely you would see that they are truly connected in this region. Travelling is beautiful and educational, and Indochina is a taste of the now and of the were!

Decided to have Mcdonald's in Bangkok because we have different menus right? this is a thing too!

These big statues at the airport are really awesome, a majestic reminder of thai culture

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Travel Video: Youtube

IndoChina: Hanoi, Vietnam
IndoChina: Vientiane, Laos
IndoChina: Bangkok | Part 1

Reclaiming the Narrative

2019-04-24T03:18:00.000+08:00

Four years ago the foundation of my faith shifted. Four years ago I discovered the Divine in the femininity of God. Mother Earth, the greatest Shakti that we can ask for. The exact words of Mother Maya Tiwari, in the exact moment that changed my life can be heard here

This beautiful power that she says that each woman and child carries, it has been dismissed but not taken away. As a girl, growing up in rural Texas, I must tell you that the shame brought upon me by grown men about my gender was crushing.This judgment and harassment about my ability to interact with the Divine was not cast onto everyone. In fact, some women find themselves willingly and gracefully winding that path.

For me it was so destructive that my God died. Yes, I knew he died and rose but when I was told that I cannot preach or carry God’s truth within me because I was a woman; God died to me then too. In such a devastating blow that carried on its winds my assurance of God’s blessings and will over my life, my God was shattered.

When this happened to me at 8 years old I can only say that I searched for answers.

This God that so many of my friends and family loved was a mean God.
A God who would say I am loved in front of others and still shame me in the privacy of my own heart.

A God that forced me to live into fear and subservience.

I searched for a church that would not yell the truth at me like I was the scum of the Earth but somewhere I could find wisdom that would look me in the eyes and claim me as their own.

The day I believed that God exists is the day I saw the first woman preacher. She stood at the back of Tioga United Methodist Church and was unafraid of the truth she spoke, this truth that was love and courage in the face of a world of pain. She ran the show as elegantly as I imagined running my own; taking flak from no one and giving none in return. She showed me that women can invoke the Spirit and women can bless the bread and women can FORGIVE as God forgives and as is our prerogative.

These moments of transformation, of seeing God in the Divine, I tell you it changed my life. I was no longer to sit on the side-lines and wait for God to do something in my life but God gave me the PERMISSION to PARTICIPATE FULLY in the grace of never ending love. Like Mother Maya said; that power, that Shakti existed inside of me the entire time. These claims that I did not deserve it because of my gender did not make it go away. This cosmic Love resided in me and took home even when I was told it does not belong with me. The truth is that people know they cannot take away another’s power so they try to make the other forget about it.

I am not Hindu but I love these principles and this truth is far too obvious for me to shun because of mere religion. If she says food for me is food for all because of her belief in the loving nature of the womb and feminine ideas, then I will stand next to her in agreement because food for me IS food for all. Greed is not the winner; pride is not the winner. Whatever beliefs make someone believe that they are more important or holy than another are not Divine beliefs. They do not represent the God of my inherently Christian faith (you have to understand; I must be Christian because I believe Jesus is homoousios with God despite what people will say about my finding truth in others’ beliefs).

I believe in the great fullness of God that can exist outside of my own boundaries and what I am comfortable with.

Where will I see God next is my question, what is yours?
-Jamie Morgan

-The Author-

Jamie is a Global Mission Fellow serving in Geneva, Switzerland as an Inter-religious Dialogue Assistant for World Council of Churches. Know more about Jamie here.

You can also see Jamie's work as a UMC Global Ministries missionary in her UMC missionary profile here.

Instagram: @JamieNicole1795

Email: jmorgan@umcmission.org

"Whether or not the truth is what we believed before is not of relevance, honestly I personally believe that faith is more about the journey and walking with God."

Natural History Museum, Manila

2019-04-09T04:50:00.001+08:00

National Museum of Natural History is the most anticipated museum by far because of its exhibition and architecture. We can never be more thankful to NCCA for this effort that they're doing in preserving our culture through opening museums especially for the younger generation.

Take a peak to this newly opened museum through these photographs below.

The famous "Tree of Life" as the center of the museum.

Exhibitions are the seaside, forest and even underwater life imagination of the natural evolution of the Philippines and its inhabitant beings.

Now we're reaching the life on the mountains and underwater.

But what i like here are not just the exhibition but on how they educate our generation about the beauty and diversity of the Philippines!

So what are you waiting for? head on now to Rizal park and education yourself about the natural beauty of the Philippines!

Indochina: Bangkok | Part 1

2019-01-30T06:52:00.000+08:00

We found ourselves in the train seats by a beautiful sunset of Bangkok! It’s another country and adventure. I was personally thinking about the last two days of this country crawl and new adjustments in new state.

If you haven't followed this series, this is a 5-day country crawl from Vietnam to Laos and the last stop is Bangkok.

Crossing the border from Tha Na Leng, Laos to the first province we arrived in Thailand, NongKhai.

Day 04

0600 - 0900: Bangkok Railway Station – Hua Lamphong // Breakfast

Upon arriving in Bangkok, we encountered confusion on where to head next and how to go to our pre-booked hostel. There’s this one lady who approached us and told us where to go. She said, she’s not a scammer and just wants to help, this reminds me of that one friend who told us the nice-attitude of Thais to everyone.

Outside the National Railway Station of Bangkok

A sign that suggestively saying the name of the City -- that you have finally arrived safely and succesfully!

This sign that though i cannot understand but i know that this is about the King's Funeral on that day.

In front of the station, just on the other side of the road, there are restaurants lined up for upcoming visitors and tourists. So we decide to stay there, connect to WiFi and had a talk before we head for the day, got an UBER and check-in to our hostel.

Tips:

1. An UBER is always a helpful way of transportation to your hostel.

2. Always, have a planned booking before arrival in your destination. Not only this is helpful in your immigration questions but an ease to your travelling because you know already where to go.

3. Most hostels help you with navigation around the city, offer free wifis, luggage storage and shower services before you even check – in. Make use of this advantage.
4. Use Google Map, as this has never failed me in my previous travels. Try saving your destination in case you have no data on the go and you only use wifi in the moment.

1000 – 0100: Road closed, hospitable Thais and hostel

When we arrived at our hostel we decided to stay more and have a rest. I know that my peers were also tired for travelling so I personally decided to cut the stroll until 1PM on that day.

The Royal Palace is unsurprisingly closed because of the national holiday -- King's funeral.

1400 - 1600: Temple of Dawn, Wat Arun Ratchawararam

It's a Thursday and i bet a holiday, but people are still on the Temple. The upper side of the stairs of the temple are closed for tourists, we had no choice anyway so we just seized the whole compound and amazed seeing the Chao Phraya River and it's water taxis (boat) fetching people from the other side of the river to the temple.

First ever TukTuk Ride! Going to Wat Arun

Feels at Chao Phraya River

1700: Dinner - Night Market

It was kinda tiring to roam around the temple so we decided to call the day with dinner in auth Thai cuisine. Along the way, we found Filipinos who eventually became our tour guides and friends! Helped us out even going to the Night Marker and experienced eating exotic delicacies and Thai Night life!

Upon arriving Bangkok, I instantly felt the welcoming attitude of Thais towards their visitors and of how they are loose, outgoing, fun and open! So if you happen to be in Bangkok, Thais might not be all english-speaking but you can see from their faces that they are warm!

~~kop khun kap!~~

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Travel Video: Youtube

IndoChina: Hanoi, Vietnam
IndoChina: Vientiane, Laos

Journal#1

2019-01-17T15:53:00.005+08:00

I have been journaling since 2011 and i already have 5 journal notebook. I started doing journal arts on the cover of my journal notebooks until i decided designing the pages of the book on my third one and discovered that there's a community of journals on the internet. So i decided to feature my works here on my blog.

Journal#1 inspiration: I was outside of my apartment looking at the setting skies turning the colors of blue and orange and listening to Hillsong United's song "Mountain". So I decided to create an art of it.

Most of my journal are inspired by song lyrics, artists or my personal bible readings/verses.

Notebook: Limelight
Pen used: Avanti Liquid Ink 0.7 mm

Do you also doing journal? Can you share what you're doing with it?

Lens Project: In An Island, Monochrome

2018-12-23T05:19:00.000+08:00

Photography collection as per told by the music of Vance Joy.

From the album, Nation of Two, Saturday Sun.

Oh Saturday Sun, I met someone
Out on the West Coast, I gotta get back, I can't let this go

And still the memory's right there

She put the breeze in my hair, No kiss was softer, softer than this

A monochromic image is one composed of one color. The term monochrome comes from the Ancient Greek: μονόχρωμος, translit. monochromos, lit. 'having one color'.
/source/

Oh, Saturday Sun, I met someone
Don't care what it costs, No ray of sunlight's ever lost

The long drive, the coastline

Lookin' out at first light, Am I still on her mind?

Dimasalang, Masbate City, Philippines
August 2018
Sony A6000 / f 3.5 - 5.6 / 16 - 50 mm

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Indochina: Vientiane, Laos

2018-12-07T17:19:00.000+08:00

“folks we need to wake up early to see the sunrise in Mekong”

Good thing we did!

Day 04

0600: Biking around Vientiane

We are fascinated by the structure of the city and the Mekong itself. So yeah, we went back to the same spot, park and biked all the way up north of the city to see how everyone starts their day in Laos. They’re so laid back still! I think their day starts at 08:00 am! I love this country, you don’t need to stress yourself over to your day jobs!

Goofing out, we were trying to imitate South Korea's Winter Sonata

Tip: Rent a bike in the famous biking rental in town – PVO Hostel!. Which is just beside our Hotel, Mali Namphu (click for another review)? You just have to leave your passport, or any valuable items. Rental fee is only Php 80.00 the whole day!

0900: Pha That Luang Complex

As a normal tourist, we checked everything out. I personally thought that this temple is only one, but this is actually composed of collective temples in the complex! So much culture and tourist stuffs are happening in the complex, it is well placed yet not crowded at all. I don’t know maybe because we came here in the middle of the week and maybe tourists fluctuate on weekends.

Reunited with Rens and Claire once again! Along passing the border, we never got the chance to talk again, so we’re glad that we saw them one last time before we left the country. Claire’s so jealous about our biking around tour! Haha.

1200: That rich schoolmate (lol)

One of our college school mates are in the country too! I’m so surprised that my schoolmates before are now around the world. So this is her 2nd time (?) in Laos and she’s pretty accustomed about the culture – so she had to take us on a treat too. Thanks ayien!

1300: Morning Market

You can never miss a cheap souvenir in their local market. So we had to take a look in their market and see what’s up for us that we can take home as a remembrance. Ayien made us the tour because she know Laotian!

An item that's being sold in Vientiane in their local market

Tips:

1. So in our street of residence, after PVO Hostel where you can rent a bicycle, there’s a tour company that helps us travel to train station from Nong Khai, Thailand to Bangkok. So we had it booked.

2. However, most of the hostels are equipped with tours. You better ask your hotel/hostel about it and it’s your call if you’re gonna take your hotel’s booking or third party. I’d say, it’ll boil down to price.

1500 - 1700: Tha Na Leng

So we had to leave for the last leg of our tour in Indochina. Just like what we had in Vietnam, we had to ride a mini van to Tha Na Leng and a mini train to Nong Khai, Thailand. The amazing part is, they are just 5 minutes away. I like that, you can be in 2 nations in just minutes and they are just separated by river and grass fields! The sunset at that time was also awesome!


So we played UNO cards anywhere, While waiting for the border to arrive, we killed our time by playing UNO cards.

1800: Nong Khai

Oh the excitement of the people of Thailand and the immigration office. I decided not to open my camera and take shots though I really wanted too because of the scenery and the documentation of the trip. The immigration officers were way too different in this border because they are smiling and taking mobile phone pictures of us --- the incoming tourists.

Tips:

1. Check and clarify your ticket. We felt that we were scammed in our ticket, we booked for a class B train to Bangkok but we got the ordinary and fanned train. So we had to talk to train administration and ask to have us transferred to what we paid. We were transferred but have to pay THB 100. (fair enough I think. They were also sympathetic and helpful)

2. Have friends. We met a South African traveler and a Thai too! This Thai was very helpful to us in explaining our route, the Thai culture and politics. He was also very interested in the Filipino culture.

Wrapping up this year of my travel with Vientiane, Laos. I love its simplicity and beauty and all about its developing country vibe. There are truly many things to see that the world misses. At the same time, if this country is brought to attention, people might abuse it and it will become another story of misbehaving humans and it's bad tourist abusive attitude.

View more:

Photos: Vientiane, Laos

Photos: Lens Project, Vientiane

Indochina Traveling Recap

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Travel Video: Youtube

When God is Silent

2018-11-10T17:12:00.000+08:00

A year ago, God revealed to me that He wants me to be a missionary. It was a tough journey because of the application process, document requirements and even Visa to our orientation in South Africa.

It was a magic and really a living-a-dream moment when we were in South Africa. Not until after going home and waiting for Visa for our place of assignment happened.

We went home, together with my other 53 cohorts in our home countries last August 10 to process our Visa to our place of assignments, where we will work on the injustices in different fields such as poverty, hunger, migration, violence , environment. HIV/Aids, health, sexual abuses and many other more.

I personally thought that obtaining a Visa to my Place of Assignment (POA) in Zambia is easy and would only take me a month, now, it’s a month short to December where we are only allowed to stay at our home countries before the year ends.

I feel that God is silent.

I know I am not the only one feeling this, together with the other cohorts of this program who feel that they can’t do anything in Visa processes, documentations and feeling that maybe, this is not God’s actual leading for us.

I know I am not the only one feeling this, like you, you are in a situation where you felt God called you to do something but yet, situations seems to not be working for you. God just seem to be just watching you suffer and just so silent in all these challenges.

I feel God is silent too in this time of waiting.

They keep saying to me,
“Where is the word of the Lord?
Let it now be fulfilled!
-Jeremiah 17:15 (NIV)

I read last few days that verse in Jeremiah while doing my devotion. Behold, because God's promise is about to happen! He will turn our burdens into wonder!

I’ve said it in my previous blog before, that God will always come in rescue in His perfect timing. But as human nature kicks in, we always forget that He got us in His hands, He got this, He has better plans, He wants us to learn and wait, be still and trust.

Just in case you forget, here are our reminders in this season of silence and trusting:

"I see you moved, I see you do it again"
-Do it Again, Elevation Worship

"For the God I know, is known for Faithfulness"
-Hindsight, Hillsong Y&F

"You will go before me, You will never leave me"
-I am not Alone, Kari Jobe

"I will never ever walk alone"
-Never Walk Alone, Rend Collective

The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina: Watched

2018-11-05T23:37:00.000+08:00

Yes, this is a reboot of 90's sitcom. Sabrina the Teenage Witch though this reboot is from another comic with the same title with the reboot.

Being still at home allows me to do things that i like and that includes watching and catching up to shows that i like. Currently i'm into Netflix's #StrangerThings #MortalInstruments #Dynasty, #AHSCult (yeah cause i'm catching up from hotel) #Insatiable and now, their new reboot series, The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina.

First off, i like that they are using terms that's very opposite with Christianity. From 'unholy gathering' to 'false God' (Jesus) and 'dark baptism'. Instead of actually being offended, it made me laugh. Unlike in Insatiable where i am actually offended the way they used/mocked the Holy Ghost to their stupid Baby Jesus Pageant. No wonder this show gets backslash but i'd still love to see the next season.

Salem is another sweet! I love his black and thick fur, i wish to have that kind of familiar too!

Here's an incantation to get your own familiar:

“Spirits of the forest, I pronounce my intentions to thee. Come forth and seek me and equals we will be. Not master and servant but familiar to familiar, to share our knowledge, our spirit and our traits.”

I love the story line! And pretty much interested what will happen in the next season after all the turn out of the season's ending episode! Yaaass it was chilly, demonic and full of witches!

*warning spoiler*

In the universe that i've been watching, almost all the people that's being brought back to death, are zombie-like already. If you recall the #AHSCoven resurrection of Kyle Spencer (Evan Peters), he was so zombie when he was resurrected, same as Harvey's brother! I like the idea that they have limbo too!, very much catholic and real life.

The Academy of Unseen Arts is way too cool for me too. Harry Potter feels!

It's giving me a Harry Potter feel especially their house, school and town! Just perfect that they premiered it in Halloween. Pumpkin, black cat, fogs and old houses are very very spooky!

You better watch The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina now and get spooked of the story line and her love-hate relationship with Satan! (Yes, Satan was there). There's also a lot of Latin Incantations!

Wouldn't it be fun to just easily kill someone when they annoy you?

If you're a witch, what incantation would you make?

Indochina: Vientiane Nights

2018-10-28T20:32:00.000+08:00

If you are used with noisy cities and vast skyscrapers, Indochina should be removed in your list.

However, if you are seeking simplicity, diversity, history and quietness, this is the region where you should go! Last October, we seize Indochina starting off in Hanoi, Vietnam – Vientiane, Laos – Bangkok, Thailand in a five day country crawl.

Day 03

1800: Mekong River & Chao Anouvong Park

Our idea was to see the Mekong river in sunset through a bicycle but due to our tired bodies, we decided to just stay a little bit in our hotel and settle everything before we head out.

Our hotel room in Vientiane. @ Mali Namphu Hotel

We went out and checked the Mekong river and parks in our area. You could say that Laos is really an emerging country because though there are tourists, There are still places in the capital where there are few to none people because establishments close early.

Chao Anouvong park is not that crowded though there are tourists. The music is so loud and vibely because of the Zumba by night. Who didn't even think that Zumba is also a thing here aside from it was in the Philippines.

While walking in the park and Mekong is by our right side (which we really cannot see because of the darkness at night) there are stalls, just like a Filipino small stalls in the Philippines.

The monument of King Anouvong

Trying out Laotian street foods.

Tip:

Be careful in buying local street foods in Laos. Just like in the Philippines, we don’t know how it’s made. Better not risk your health and you don’t wanna end up in the hospital while you travel. This tip is based on the people we have talked to in there.

I would compare the park as that of Quezon Memorial Circle in Quezon City. Vibely by night, loud, full of lights and stalls, yet old and not crowded enough.

1900: Night Market

The idea is still to get the taste of the local cuisine in Laos. Compare to Hanoi, the Laos cuisine is infamous so it was hard for us to really get a taste of Laos food. In the night market, though there are a lot of food stalls, most of it are Asian foods ranging from Korean – Thai which, normally we can get in the Philippines too.

We still ended up translating our food orders with the help of hand gestures and pointing fingers to the menu with no picture by our patient and smiling server.

Surprisingly, there are decent shops and cheap items you can choose in the night the market. Though we know, this is a little bit pricey compared to the real local market in Vientiane.

0020: Patuxai Monument and the safe night roads in Vientiane.
We dared ourselves to walk on their streets. I read when I came back to our hotel later that night that Vientiane streets are safe of crimes.

The Presidential Palace

The beautiful traditional and religious details of Patuxai

We also felt the need to see the monument by night and by day. This would be a one night only in Vientiane so we better seek everything for the night, and that also includes DQ – Dairy Queen though there’s still one in the Philippines.

It's always nice to see new places and taste new flavors in different context such as the lay-low and simple life of the capital of Laos, Vientiane. What makes this adventure memorable is the people that i traveled and laugh with.

Check out the other posts of this series by clicking this

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Apartheid Museum: South Africa

2018-09-26T23:13:00.000+08:00

APARTHEID ORIGIN: After the National Party gained power in South Africa in 1948, its all-white government immediately began enforcing existing policies of racial segregation under a system of legislation that it called apartheid.

source: History

The posters that was used before in political heist in South Africa

The pillars of the new free government of South Africa. This should be their guide
in weighing issues that might affect their freedom/challenges

HOW DOES IT WORK? Under apartheid, nonwhite South Africans (a majority of the population) would be forced to live in separate areas from whites and use separate public facilities, and contact between the two groups would be limited. Despite strong and consistent opposition to apartheid within and outside of South Africa, its laws remained in effect for the better part of 50 years. In 1991, the government of President F.W. de Klerk began to repeal most of the legislation that provided the basis for apartheid.

source: History

People are being separated based on skin colors. Based on your color, your privilege will be determined.
But in this case, the favor is mostly given to whites.

The signs of early humans are found in the soils of South Africa.
No wonder why there are rich tribes and chants in the country.

Passports and your identity.

Maybe most of us don't know the history or the term of apartheid is. As part of the mixed or black blood, for sure, this system would truly affect me if ever i might be living in South Africa. Sure there are terrible things that happened in almost all countries in the world and in our history but i can see why this system is very important to South Africans together with other issues that relates to it such as poverty, discrimination, human rights and inequality.

Indochina: Crossing Borders. Hanoi to Nam Phao, Laos

2018-09-20T18:44:00.000+08:00

I would admit that I have no idea what Vientiane and Laos in general would look like. Compare to other popular cities and nations in the SEA region, Laos is infamous and underrated. Hence, let me introduce to you this safe and chill country in Indochina!

If you are used with noisy cities and vast skyscrapers, Indochina should be removed in your list.

Here's a travel video to sum up all what we had:

I research a lot before I travel so I won’t be lost, I would know what to expect and I would blend in to the culture. Upon research & first-hand experience, I learned that:

1. Vientiane and Laos in general is a chill country. Establishments closes early as 6pm.

2. It’s safe and laid back, their capital city sleeps.

3. Fewer establishments just erected in Vientiane, means more nature and heritage exploration.

4.Mekong river is so accessible in the capital, the 12th longest river in the world.
5. I imagine Laos as a sunny country, rice-filled scenery and red-soiled one and I’m correct.

Day 02 – Day 03

20:00-04:00 // Nam Phao Border

There are several entry/exit points from Vietnam to Laos and vice versa depending on your destination and origin. In our case, we had our entry to Laos via Nam Phao border.

Picture taken through stolen. I still tried to sneak some pictures as we cross
the borders from Vietnam to Laos. I think, the Vietnamese are building a big
facility for their border checkpoints, we we cross, we saw building constructions.

The border and cold mountains of Nam Phao in Laos. Where, we somehow felt relieved,
We talked with some locals and still tried to be quiet as possible.
The authorities are also helpful.

This is to set your expectation in a 17-hour sleeper bus ride:

We experienced bad hospitality from our bus tour esp the conductor. This is not only for Filipinos but the rest of the friends I met along the travel – Korean and Europeans. They dumped us at the back of the bus near the smelly bathroom. We can’t choose where we want to seat and they even shouted at us.

The road as we took off from bus and walked from Vietnam border to Nam Phao border.

A Vietnamese man. One of my favorite pictures in the series.
This road is concrete as the Vietnamese builds a border/immigration facility in this
are of their territory.

1. For ASEAN countries, crossing borders are free but we were charged US$ 2.00. It’s not that big amount of money but the idea is, it’s wrong. It’s collected to all the tourists, so imagine combining them all. That’s hell a lot of money!

2.We were so scared crossing the Vietnamese immigration. They would make you feel inferior.

3.We chose not to snap photos for as we cross borders. We tried to stay calm in the tension that there might be a possibility that they would detain us and ask for money to be freed. If that would happen, the bus may not wait for you. Stay calm, be friendly and smile. That is not your territory.

4.Don’t start me with stop overs along Vietnam provinces, that is because of less choice of food, language barrier, their superiority-shouting at you and food. (I mean, Hanoi was great but the province areas are scary).

5.You would go into Laotian zigzag red-soiled slippery wilder-ed lonely cliff roads. Lots of trees, fields, river-ry and mountainous scenery.

A river in Laos as we travel in our sleeper bus to Vientiane after we cross the border.

Even though I noted those as a scary and bad experience, for me it’s still ok cause I got to learn and experience it. This still makes this travel far from expected, unique and memorable

Tip:

If you have time, (please do have). Check options in Hanoi if you can look for different bus tour to Vientiane or any other destination from Hanoi to Vientiane to at least (maybe) avoid what we experienced.

1500: Arrived in Vientiane and that Korean friend.

Filipino staffs are amazing and we were even surprised! Finally a common tongue to ask questions about!

This guy deserves a shoutout! (3rd person from left). He's a Korean who helped us as we travelled and get
shouted by Vietnamese bus crew. HE SHOUTED BACK! He said that the way they treat non-Vietnamese
are normal as he is a frequent traveller. He also explained that the corruption in borders is normal
and that we should just abide to what they want so we can cross the border safely,

The Pinay staff in our hotel in Vientiane.

The city's landmark, called the Patuxai monument. Laos is a french colonized country.
This is their symbol of liberation from French and is considered the Arc De Triomphe of Asia.

We had to settle ourselves after a long way of travelling! And having everything turning out to be fine after all the stress that we had inspired us to go outside the streets of Vientiane at night! Check out my next post about the night streets and more of Vientiane, Laos.

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Out For Mission

2018-09-09T23:00:00.000+08:00

Hello, good day! I am Steven from the Philippines, i am a Global Mission Fellow International of the United Methodist Church serving in Zambia as Hope for Children Assistant. I served in my local church as a youth worker, worship and lay leader for the past 5 years and very involved in youth works and church administration.

I was born as Methodist and i don't go to church activities, i thought that people in the church look stupid when they clap their hands in worship, close their eyes and sometimes cry. I do believe in God, I pray sometimes too, but it felt empty that time.

In 2011 a new pastor came in our church and asked me to join the small group ---- that's when i accepted Jesus Christ in my life and involvement in ministries started.

My mentor (middle, wearing black polo shirt) who went home after 5 years when his family migrated to USA.

He was the pastor who asked me to join the church's caregroup, the reason why I became passionate about Christ

and ministries in music, leadership and discipleship.

I love following Jesus and doing ministries, i really could tell a lot of testimonies about the Lord's grace in my life especially the jobs and companies that i want and prayed for. Because i don't want my personal life to hinder my ministry works on weekends I ask God to give me jobs that would fit on weekdays, all are answered!

In 2016, i went to Singapore and Malaysia. I really felt favoured by that time, and quite frankly didn't understand why i got to travel. I was thinking that maybe the Lord blessed me of this because i devote myself to Him. Little did i know, these experiences are just my pre-requisite for my missionary service two years later.

2016: Singapore

After having been accepted in the GMF program i was surprised to find this note in my journal that's dated in September 19, 2017 that says "remember that soon God will send you someday to places". For me, it was God's approval to leave the Philippines and work abroad. Because i want to be "stable" before i turn 30 and have my own family.

As a worship leader, my job was to line up songs for our church anniversary last year, and that's based on the theme and key verse which is "therefore go". I remember having my rheema verse for weeks about Isaiah saying "whom shall i send, here i am Lord send me" perfect, just very very timely for our church anniversary.

My weekends are normally filled with church activities including worship and small group leadings, meetings and event participations.

For that anniversary, we also had missionary visitors and I remember how i was introduced by our elder pastor (who also worked as a missionary in Japan by global ministries). He said "someday, this guy would be a missionary too". I just laughed and in my mind "uh oh pastor, i am working abroad and ain't gonna be a missionary"

I was set to leave later that night too for a 5 day country crawl to Indochina.

Travelling in Indochina is waaay harder than travelling in Malaysia and Singapore. We experienced a lot of hardships like being shouted at, language barrier and got dumped at the back of the bus where you can smell the sting of the bus' bathroom. Let me mention that it was an 18-hour bus travel from Hanoi, Vietnam - Vientiane, Laos.

We also got so scared when they asked to surrender our passport and obliged to pay USD 1.00 for "border fee". The food in those vietnamese provinces are unbearable too. Along the way, we met friends who were also discriminated, a korean who helped us around finding our hotel in Vientiane and the Filipinos in Thailand who volunteered to be our tour guide in Bangkok.

God spoke to me through Deuteronomy 31:6 that says "i will never leave You nor abandon You". And realized that those hardships in travelling are God's way of showing His grace by sending people along the way.

Asia travel buddies with a Filipino staff in our hotel in Laos. Surprised that after the hassle we had along the travel

still God brings people to make use feel home and secured.

I developed this feeling of involving myself in Mission and looked mission travel opportunities. I felt that instead of wasting money for personal travelling experiences, i should really invest myself in meaningful travels.

A week after that trip. I saw the "the Filipino Methodist" magazine being sold after our church service. I read a column about Carlos who is serving in Nothern Ireland, from there, i knew that GMF is God's next step for me.

My local church family that truly made me home and contributed to who I am.

The thought that I would leave this comfort zone for years strikes from time to time.

My local church commissioning, 5 days before I left for my missionary training to Johannesburg, South Africa.

Global Mission Fellows International 2018 - 2020 class.

57 missionaries from 24 countries serving in Latin America, Europe, Asia and Africa.

Commissioning in Johannesburg, South Africa by the Global Ministries of the UMC.

Aug 9, 2018

Commissioning day with all the fellows, trainers, and staff of Global Ministries.

So all those experiences in 5 countries for the last 2 years and these very recent verses i recieved through Isaiah, "therefore go" and Deuteronomy made so much sense! The experiences that i had with these food, culture and people are God's way of preparing me in my mission service.

God really works in ways we don't know. And if you feel God wants you to do something, just go and do it! If you think you are called to be a missionary, if you want to learn about the program, or want to support it, i am so much willing to help you!.

You can participate or support me through Prayers.

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Learn more about the program, ways to support and application by logging on to www.umcmission.org. You can also check out my missionary profile in the Global Ministries of the UMC website here.

Mt. Batulao: 11 Things I learned in Hiking

2018-08-29T13:22:00.000+08:00

1. TRYING OUT

I'm not fond of climbing or hiking. If you would give me a choice, i would definitely choose swimming. I love nature so much that it made me decided to go hiking and get new perspective of travelling. Same as in life, through experience of new things, we see sides of what we normally see. It's like a view to our hindsight, we see something right there that might value but we would only know that until we pay attention.

2. EXPECT

By trying out something new, we either expect it to be great or not. In hiking, i expect it to have long walks until reaching summit, heavy bags and breathtaking views. To my surprise, those were met. What even surprised me are: the sky is more vast up on the mountain. (pictures); There are sea of stars, tent and city lights. My decision is not a failure this time.

3. ENJOY THE TRAIL

In swimming, i enjoy the warmth and coldness of the sea as it kisses my body and the heat of the sun through my skin. In hiking, it's very different. You carry a heavy bag with your back, you climb an assault against the gravity and most of all, you try not to die by being mindful of the cliffs. Treat the trail like your hardship:It will make your legs stronger. You try not to fall to someone but still you enjoy the view and the thought that you might actually end up being together.

4. SOCIALIZE

What i observed and liked in hiking are the people. When you come across someone either they are locals or hikers who have gone to the summit, they would greet everyone a good day and remind you to be careful. Everyday, be open, there's a love outside waiting to be discovered. Those are from the people around ready to greet you in THE CLIMB.

5. BE WITH LOVED ONES

I'm amazed with those people who can travel by themselves. I've been into different countries but i don't think that i can travel by myself for the reason that i want to create memories with the people that i cherish but not because of the capability to travel alone, because i know can travel skillfully alone.

What i know is it would be more meaningful to have someone you love to create memories together. Be with those you love, because memories are what we take in our graves.

6. BEING ON TOP - We always strive to be on top of our game. I think these pictures would speak what it's like to be on top.

7. LETTING GO

It's not easy to let go of the things that we have held for sometime and we care about. Being on the mountain would allow us to shout our feelings, appreciate simplicity and have a break from all the noise that's bothering our sanity. Use this opportunity to enjoy your time with friends and nature and be amazed how a place can heal you.

8. I BUILT A TENT. I COOKED

We have everything in our fingertips these days that we forget to define the value of everything and the joy of waiting for the price. Having only your tent as home and some limited food to cook in the camp site would make you realize the beauty and value of simplicity.

9. I LISTENED TO MUSIC

I always listen to music whenever i travel, that's my way of connecting to places i see. Music is powerful. It changes our perspectives in life. Our song and lyrics can shape our thoughts to our beliefs. Personally, by having music in me, i feel more empowered and connected to the place and the moment. Try plugging in and you might lose yourself from the weights you're holding and in the beauty of the challenging trail.

10. UNDERSTANDING THE HARDSHIP (going down the trail)

If climbing is hard, i think going down the trail is even harder because of the gravity that pulls you down. I also realized that i should've bought a climbing shoes to help me hold my feet on the ground instead of using my running shoes. Look for inspiration to hold your feet on the ground so you would keep yourseLf from the pull of the gravity down.

11. LOOK FORWARD FOR A NEW ONE

Whether the experience is easy or hard, hiking is now what i look forward even though i know it might be scary and rough sometimes. It's like a pill i need for some time to get me into my wandering state. Remind yourself that the next chapter is exciting. Maybe reminding yourself that it's gonna be fun and challenging is what you need to get your drug kick in again!.

-----

A Blog inspired by the stories and photos of wheretonext.ph

Mt. Batulao
Nasugbu, Batangas
Jump-off: Evercrest Golf Course, Nasugbu
LLA: 14.0408 N 120.8011 E 811 MASL
Days required / Hours to summit: 1 day / 2-4 hours
Specs: Minor climb, Difficulty 4/9, Trail class 3 with 60-70 degrees assault

Indochina: Hanoi Day Tour

2018-07-16T01:08:00.000+08:00

If you are used with noisy cities and vast skyscrapers, Indochina should be removed in your list.

However, if you are seeking simplicity, diversity, history and quietness, this is the region where you should go!

Last October, we seize Indochina starting off in Hanoi, Vietnam – Vientiane, Laos – Bangkok, Thailand in a five day country crawl.

Here's a travel video to sum up all what we had:

Day 01

0600 – 0800: That sound sleep, prep time and that awesome breakfast.

I should commend our hostel (Republik Backpackers Hostel) for a 5 star facility and free tasteful breakfast!

Imagine only paying Php 400 for a 2D1N stay with free breakfast, unlimited beer by 6:00pm until supplies last, nice facilities and accommodating staff!

0900 – 0012: Vietnam Military History Museum, Flag Tower of Hanoi, Ba Dinh Square, Vietnam Mausoleum and Hanoian streets.

The old city tower that translates the feeling of the Vietnam war.

This gigantic old city gate

Vietnam's Presidential Palace

Cats really look good in Vietnam, and they are everywhere!

Always bring your walking shoes with you because you’ll see a lot in this area. If you are fond of history, people stories and locals, Hanoi can offer up so much in their laidback country!

A remain of an American aircraft that was managed to take down by Vietnamese woman in the Vietnam war

Tips:

1.Ask your hostel for a free maps.

2.Go to tripadvisor and schedule for a free food tour or tourists destination free tours.

3.Bring water cause you’ll definitely get thirsty walking.

1300: Dong Xuan Market - Lunch

So yeah we had a free tour from our hostel! And we miss you much Ban.

Dong Xuan is an 1889 structure that was struck by fire and rebuilt. This is Hanoi’s cheap market for souvenirs and Vietnamese items alike. As typical Pinoys, you know what it always happen when it comes to shopping – Bargain and asking the sellers to lower down the price so we would buy many!

Once one a famous apartment in Hanoi. As time goes by, so this has aged too.

Bun Cha: Rice thick noodle with grilled pork or beef of your choice.
Vietnam is also a foodie country! Everything here is authentic and you have to curse your western or Asian food! Our choice was a meatball grill, vinegar/salty/pepper sauce and a noodle.

1400 – 1500: Jollibee, Ngoc Son by day, Hanoian streets once more & St. Joseph Cathedral

I insisted to go back to Ngoc Son lake to see its scenery by day. We had a view of it by night and I’m personally curios of how it would look by day.

We were surprised that along strolling around Hanoi, we never knew that a Filipino brand would own the streets solely by Jollibee. We are after Hanoian food so we never actually tasted Jollibee there though we know that the menu would be different.

The very famous and crowded Ngoc Son temple

Last landmark to visit there was St. Joseph Cathedral. I think the only catholic establishment in the city!

1700: Leaving Hanoi

It was a bittersweet departure. We booked our bus ride to Vientiane, Laos through our hostel.

We tried looking for a seater bus but is impossible. Glad as well cause we met friends along the way in this journey going to Laos!

Tips:

1. Book your travel bus to your hostel. Most of Hanoian hostels are equipped with everything. If you are short in time, your hostel can serve you all your tour needs.

2. If you have plenty of time and just really are curious about the price differences between tours and trips, there are agencies in everywhere in Hanoi that you can inquire in.

3. About crossing the Vietnam - Laos border: Bring extra food and water as you travel to Laos. We weren’t happy about our experience in our 18 hour trip to Vientiane. Be ready to be in hell!

4. You’ll be picked up from your hostel to a “waiting spot” by your tour office. In our case, we thought we were scammed because we waited for almost an hour to wait for the bigger bus to arrive. We also met friends in the “waiting spot” who would travel as well with us to Vientiane and transferred together to a bigger bus to a sleeper bus to Laos.

5. Expect the worsts in your travel bus! You’ll be dumped at the back of the bus next to the smelly bathroom. Just because you are not the same race as them. Food would suck as you go more remote in Vietnamese provinces, unless your taste bud can take it. Language barrier would be more real that you would end up not ordering a food because they can’t take orders until they would dismiss you.

Hanoi is a historical nation and a foodie! I have so much to say about this country and their smiling people. My hostel added a good experience in the place. I would go back and want to experience their rich Pho again, their Banh Mi, their culture, the people and their weekend party!

Until next time Hanoi! Cam un!
---
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Cagbalete Island

2018-06-29T10:19:00.000+08:00

Yey! It's officially rainy season here in the Philippines and it's hell flooding everywhere and the rain poured early - harder compare from the last two years, must be La Nina this year.

Since my fave season is summer, before the rain strikes, i would want to give it a feature here in my blog. We had the first of our summer in Cagbalete, Mauban, Quezon -- the Boracay of the Pacific.

About Mauban:

1. Upon arriving in town, there are many tourist spots that you can check around such as the anchestral houses, the 1725 public bath that recognized by the National Museum, Museo ng Mauban, Rizal Hill Park and Mauban Seawall.

2. The Mauban breakfast pansit which is pretty famous and should be eaten through a barbecue sticks and in banana leaf. I dont know but it's designed to be eaten while you are walking or going somewhere. Maybe Maubans are pretty busy and they just need a to-go-pansit every time!

3. The Mauban's maruya, which is not like the floured one but more of malagkit like texture (sticky texture). It's a mix of sticky something and banana. So the Mauban to-go style pansit and maruya should be eaten combined with coffee ofcourse!

4. The town is pretty much of a southern culture feel. Asphalt roads, narrow, there's always a public market, a city plaza, old buildings and houses (spanish style capiz windows), the smell of sea salt in the air, helpful locals and organized public tricycle drivers. If you are frequent in south, you'd know what i'm trying to say!

The Mauban's famous Maruya and Pansit

- I T I N E R A R Y -

0300: Cubao Jam Liner

We didn't anticipate that it's a long weekend and the line is long. There are two options going to Mauban. 1: Cubao to Mauban direct, 2: Cubao to Lucena to Mauban. The first choice was the direct route but it's already fully booked so we decided to take option two.

0600: Lucena

Left Cubao by around 3am and around 6am we arrived in Lucena. You can ask drivers as you go down to which is the ride going to Mauban. Again, two options, public Bus or UV.We chose the more private and faster options which is the UV. This also left early. 45 minutes passed and we have found ourselves in the port of Mauban.

0700: Mauban port and tourism terminal.

There are numbered steps to follow upon arriving the tourism port. No brainer!

Tips:

1. Buy everything you need in Mauban market and have your breakfast there because the price of everything in Cagbalete island is pretty much expensive to almost double.

2. We had our breakfast and bought utensils, dinner, lunch, breakfast for the next day and everything we need before going to the Island, that included the Php 200.00 worth of Pusit that's pretty gigantic!!

3. Come as early as possible. The public boat going to Mauban is cheaper, however when there are a lot of tourists, the line is really long crazy, so the best option is to rent a private boat. Having a private boat is not encouraged because it's kinda pricy though it's convenient because you can ask the boat to fetch you anytime you want and it goes directly to your resort whilst in public boat, you'll have to go to the Cagbalete port to your resort via habal or tricyle and follow the scheduled time of trips.

4. You can just follow all the instruction in the tourism terminal of Mauban on how to go about the environmental fee, registration, resort you can check-in and the option to take public/private boat.

That Squid though!

Seeing the Island after an hour travel from Mauban.

We left the terminal at around 09:00 via private boat. The original plan was to take the public boat because it's cheaper. The line was soo long and it would take us forever if we take this option, so we rented a private boat.

1100 - 1200: Cagbalete Island and Tent View Resort

We chose tent view resort, Common bathroom, toilet and Php 800.00 worth of Tent good for all of us -- 6 people. We also cooked our lunch there through their provided common grilling spot. They also allowed us to borrow the utensils we need, it should be rented but we used our charm to just lend us what we need.

Yes, that's our tent! It can contain 6 people

Lunch by the way!

14:00 The start of the adventure! Sand bar and mangroves everywhere while the tide is neither high or low.

CAPTION THIS!

There are a lot of tourists and boats and even a store on the sandbar island.

1500: Snorkeling

That beautiful sunset as we wrapped our day going back to our resort

1700 - 1900: Dinner.
Bonfire's not allowed, Photo ops, Smores, UNO cards, stargazing and a lot of stories about love life, career by the beach under the stars are our activities that night. No drinking. :)

That reason why friendships are broken

Day 01

0700: Breakfast, Swimming, Photo ops

Oh and yes, the rain poured that day and coast guard suspended all travels in and out the island that terrified us because we have work the next day. We had kuya Jun the boatman of our rented private boat as our hero which violated the suspension of the coast guard, traveled the raging sea and rescued us in the island. Not encouraged at all!

Mauban port as we wait for the lifting of boat travel suspension -- not successful

shoutout to kuya Jun who helped us. You should really book him and look for him there, very dependable.

Left the island at 15:00 of the afternoon. Left Mauban by 1400 and arrived in Manila by 1800.

It was a nice first of summer for me because i spent it with my dearest people and friends. Due to our busy schedules, we just rarely see each other and i/m glad that this has become our annual summer trip!

If you are interested, you can check out our Puerto Galera DIY trips last year. It's a Budgetarian getaway too: Click for Part 1, and Part 2.

Download DIY Itinerary and expense.

More pictures.

Indochina: Hanoain Nights

2018-06-02T12:32:00.000+08:00

If you are used with noisy cities and vast skyscrapers, Indochina should be removed in your list.

Here's a travel video to sum up all what we had:

After a long tiring day and a 4 hour travel from Halong Bay, it would be really tiring to go out and still explore. Yet, the night life in Hanoi is so inviting that you want to check out what’s the buzz in the area.

We checked in properly in our hostel and had a ourselves freshen up for the night. The first thing in mind is to have a dinner in a Hanoian way.

We tried street foods, this is like a fish with butter, more of "dilis" of the Philippines.

Tips:

1. Engage. The city is full of westerns and Hanoians. So always smile and talk with people. Blend in!

2.Eat. The reason why Hanoians have that small benches and tables is because they say that all people sit together and join in to eat Pho. Pho is special for Vietnamese poeple, and eating together is sacred for them.

3.Party. In a particular street on weekends, the whole street is closed to give way to everyone to party and just enjoy the night away! For me this is fun! Meeting new friends while getting mixed with diverse culture and experience!

A typical street benches in Hanoi, everyone is encouraged to eat together.

Day 00

2100 – 2200: Banh Mi for Dinner

Got ourselves a dinner in Hanoi, an authentic Banh Mi bread. A French style bread like crisp stuffed with your choice --- egg, beef, chicken and veggies. Vietnam is colonized by the French government. The things that I noticed in their western influences are their buildings, architecture and food like Banh Mi.

I normally make face on every dishes, but i really love them--a lot!

2300: Hoan Kiem Lake, random streets and old quarter Hanoi

Stroll more around the streets of Hanoi. Most of the streets are closed early and sure that this city sleeps, though there are some that are open for a night party. Along my research, I knew that for their laws, there are curfew for establishments and partying all night.

The iconic and famous Hoan Kiem bridge connecting the Ngoc Son temple.

Closing time in Hanoi for all establishments. The city has curfews for parties and noise, it's just around 9pm.
The night is young but they should all pack-up!

Hano Vietnam, a city that sleeps. A city that is blended by people from all nations and is welcoming to everyone. Great food, great place and great people. This is a laidback city that gives you a night full of life though there's a closing time.

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Exploring the Meaning of Scars: “I’ll never be rid of these scars!”

2018-05-27T05:42:00.000+08:00

I am in a meeting with my pastor, just a few days before an impending surgery. My nerves are jittery, my mind racing. I am searching for answers anew from a man who I believe may be able to hear more clearly from God than I can in my present state.

Seconds before, he informed me that he believes I will carry my scars with me to heaven. That the promise of a new body does not mean that we will reside in heaven scar-free. A thought evoking within me a strong sense of sadness. I never wanted these scars in the first place. Am I doomed to carry them even in eternity?

Scars in the Bible

Scars are present within the lives of the characters found in the Bible. The first mention of a person possessing a scar is Cain, son of Adam and Eve. The Bible tells us in Genesis 4:15-16, “Then the Lord put a mark on Cain so that no one who found him would kill him.” The nature of the mark is up for debate. Some scholars suggest it to be a scar, while others argue the mark was a tattoo - even a change in skin color. Regardless, the mark is intended to prevent others from killing the man who had wrongly murdered his brother. Ironically, “the mark that saved him was the lifelong sign of his shame,” according to the MacArthur Study Bible.

Why Scars Matter

We all have scars. They may be incurred as a result of spilling onto the pavement after falling off of a bike as a child, getting into a car accident, or undergoing a medical procedure. Even if we manage to escape this life without any physical scars, we certainly incur emotional ones along the way. These may form as a result of experiencing a breakup, losing a loved one, or enduring a traumatic event. We all have them, whether we readily admit to possessing them or not. Whether the world can see them, or if we can disguise them through various forms of obfuscation. Hiding does nothing to make them less real.

“Scars are not evidence of imperfection; they are evidence of healing,” Jamie Buckingham wrote. Scars are evidence of survival, meant to be cherished rather than hidden.

After all, Jesus shares His scars with His disciples after His resurrection.

“Look at my hands and my feet,” Jesus says. “Touch me and see.” (Luke 24:39)

In this moment, Jesus meets His disciples where they are, actively working to dispel their doubts in a real and personal way. The disciples identify Jesus through His scars, seeing them as evidence of His true identity.

What would it look like if others knew us by our scars?

Scars and Shame

I still remember the exact moment I first saw my scars. After suffering second and third degree burns as a result of an accidental encounter with sulfuric acid, I was tossed a mirror while sitting in a hospital bed. I saw the dark, ugly lines running down my face and arms. I shuddered, the seeds of shame planted in those early days.

Feeling shame as a result of possessing scars is common. So many of us who have scars, consciously or not, see them as a curse. We espouse the sense of shame inherent in the story of Cain, even if our scars formed through no fault of our own. Some of us even wonder if Cain’s story is our own - did God allow us to have scars because of sin present within our own life?

Scars are a product of living in a sinful world. Adam and Eve’s disobedience ensured that pain would be an inevitable part of our lives. Sin affects us all, even if we are blameless in the set of circumstances that led to a life-altering event. Scars are inherent in the human experience, a part of living in a world devoid of perfection.

Yet we have a Savior who loves us no matter our scars, both visible and invisible; and, He is calling us to follow His example by sharing our scars with others as we travel the road towards heaven.

See my Scars

A few years into my own journey towards healing, I decided to stop talking about the scars that adorn both my face and arms. I traveled to college, believing that a fresh start would allow me to forget about the day that changed my life forever. Until I realized that I was robbing myself of the opportunity to allow God to bring about a redemptive work in my life. Sharing my scars offers hope to others as they experience suffering. Helping me to reach a place of acceptance in the present.

So today, I offer you my scars. I want you to see the red line encompassing the right side of my upper lip. I want you to see the scars on my chin, neck and arms. I want you to see the pain inherent in these marks - a pain that will last a lifetime. At the same time, I want you to see these scars as symbols of survival. Of evidence of God’s grace; and as a cause for celebration of the life I live in the present. I have grieved the face which I have lost, and now celebrate the ways in which God is using my story to impact the lives of countless others.

My hope is that you will join me in doing the same. I encourage you to see your scars as symbols of hope. As agents of change, and marks of beauty. Eschewing shame in favor of reaching out to others, living out the life God calls us to lead. May you have the courage to come to peace with the parts of yourself you are tempted to change; and, take steps to actively cultivate hope in your life, each and every day.

- The Author -

Samuel Moore-Sobel is a business process consultant and freelance writer. He and his mother are nearing completion of a memoir focusing on their experiences revolving around both trauma and recovery. He is a columnist for the Blue Ridge Leader, and he has written numerous guest blog posts concerning his experience as a burn survivor. A dynamic and engaging speaker, he regularly speaks to groups about suffering, faith, and the cultivation of hope. He publishes a blog which can be found by visiting www.holdingontohopetoday.com

Lens Project: Museum of Anthropology Manila

2018-04-30T14:34:00.000+08:00

Here's a new museum just opened last year in Manila showcasing the history of Manila anthropology. This building used to house the Depart of Finance of the Philippine Government. Now, the effort of NCCA, new museums are being opened, constructed and other historical icons and establishments are revived and that includes the anthropology of Manila.

A N T H R O P O L O G Y:
the science of human beings; especially : the study of human beings and their ancestors through time and space and in relation to physical character, environmental and social relations, and culture.
-Miriam Online

The National Museum of Anthropology Manila offers a great understanding of the history of Manila that includes the exhibition of Spanish occupation, indigenous tribes of the Philippines, the BayBayin and other important relics and history of the Philippines.

The diversity of the Filipino culture and its tribe from North to South of the islands of the Philippines.

Babayin

The Lobby

The Staircase

The museum is open from Monday - Sunday and you can check out the NCCA website to know more details about arts and culture of the Philippines.

IndoChina: Halong Bay

2018-04-12T23:19:00.000+08:00

Last October, we seize Indochina starting off in Hanoi, Vietnam – Vientiane, Laos – Bangkok, Thailand in a five day country crawl.

Day 00

0900 – 0011: a long 3 hour bus ride to Halong. Souvenirs and that funny tour guide

Just a typical bus ride from Hanoi to Halong with our tour guide explaining everything about Vietnam’s history, its landmarks and the significance to Hanoian culture. I have witnessed the country side of Vietnam while travelling and its similarity and difference with the Philippines. Stop overs and souvenir shops are organized too so you can grab your food and taste of the northern Vietnam’s culture.

Tips:

1. You can book your trip to Halong Bay through your hostel.

2. They say that tours in Hanoi away from your hostels/hotel are way cheaper. Bottomline: It’s your call.

3. I suggest to not DIY this trip because it would be difficult.

4. By having a package, you’ll surely get your lunch, tour guide, free refreshment and ride back and forth to Halong.

5. Bring your water bottles. That’s essential.

6. There are different tour types: Overnight, days and a day tour. Your choice depends on your schedule availability.

1200-1300: Lunch and Hanoi Cruise.

So first I thought that the cruise tour was awesome and lit as fly! I also thought that the food will be served enough but the price we paid for the tour gave justice to their servings (beverages are not free but the water), the tour and the cruise experience.

Rock formations in Halong also have stories. It’s a 30 minute ride from the pier to Hanoi location itself.

1400: Bai Tu Long Bay // Boat ride or Kayaking

And the fear of falling in the water, getting ourselves wet and our gadgets. We chose the Boat ride accompanied by local boatmen.

1500 – 1600: Thein Cung Cave

You have to go inside the cave. Trek. Go down again. It was tiring yet it's worth it!

1700: Departure to Hanoi: Ready for a Hanoian night life

Most the Filipinos I know compare Halong to Coron or Palawan. I think they are two different wonders. I love that everything that’s served in Halong are tourist friendly, organized and not overly priced for most. I felt acquainted to nature too – tells me that nature wonders tops all the beauty in the world that deserve our love and caring.

Click here for Free downloadable Itinerary

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Travel Video: Youtube

IndoChina: Hanoi

Upgrade. How God is doing it via Deuteronomy 31:6?

2018-04-02T18:31:00.001+08:00

The Golden Buddha, Chinatown, Bangkok

Many times maybe we say to ourselves that we are not alone in this battle but actually sometimes, we feel we are.

I am still in wanderlust after all those months. I don't wanna sound so travel-ly or churchy though but i am still awe of what happened to me there -- meeting people, culture and God all at the same time.

Travelling has always been my escape and time to get closer to God. This time, it was even more different, He was talking to me directly.

Last October, i went to seize Indochina with friends in a 5 day travel crawl from nation to nation. I learned and gained experiences because of many circumstances that happened to us along the way especially the locals, transportation and food.

The Road is Tough.

In our journey in life, we are always excited about our road of journey. We prepare for it and dream of it the way we want to be. But sometimes the road to be there or the journey itself is a struggle.

Many say that it is the climb/journey not the destination, many times this is true. And how do you continue your journey when while on your way you are troubled, distracted and in despair?

I was Homesick.

While travelling in a sleeper bus from Lak Sao to Vientiane as the sunrays and summery skies are striking everywhere, i felt homesick. Because i am familiar with the place, resembled to my home country, to my own province. At that moment, i am in the unknown, far from my family, my friends, my comfort circle, my safe zone, i knew how it felt to be miles away from home. It was chilling in the bones, the feeling of being lost, unsafe, and an alien in a nation.

We also feel the same way even in our circle, safe zone, comfort zone. We are alienated because we thought that people don't understand us sometimes in our decisions or just they don't understand us of who we are.

Crossing the border

Waiting.

26 hours of travelling from Hanoi to Vientiane was not easy. More than the unnerving of the unknown is the time that we were just laying down and waiting for time to pass, checking our timepieces and estimating our arrival, our escape from the season of waiting, the season of hell in heaven.

I learned that part of being a human is waiting. There's always a waiting season in every situations in our lives. It's part of the process, it's human.

Travelling to Vientiane

Your best dish will be served after few minutes. If t's a specialty, you'll wait. 30 minutes.

You're buying that long waited book in a sale season. You'll drop and wait in lines.

You want the zip of that coffee. Brewed. Wait for the coffee maker to finish brewing.

In all aspects of our life we are waiting. So learn to wait for your reward. It's part of the everyday process. There are learnings along the waiting.

Jacob waited 14 years to marry Rachel.
From Egypt to Promised land: 40 years for the Israelites.
Abraham and Sarah: 25 years to have a children (Isaac)

The People.

Along the way of hardships in our journey from crossing nations and borders were the people that we met along the way and made friends with us. That's when i realized that God was with us all along the journey, that He was just silently guiding us simply by sending people to make this experience unforgettable,

Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.

-Deuteronomy 31:6

That week, God has been telling me that I am not alone because He is with me all along at that time as i am soaked into a different culture, people and taste.

Lao-Viet Border (Lak Sao)

Our life is in a journey and we drive it, we allow God to guide us in driving our life. We wait, sometimes it's too long and sleepless, and nerve wrecking and we get confused but think and always remember that in our waiting God's working.

He is working in our waiting -- Ok, maybe this has been played too much but it's true.

God is working, God is working in your life. He gives you patience, peace, perseverance and many other things you can learn while you wait. Isn't this special? that as you wait, God is working on your character, God is turning you into a better version of yourself.

Whatever season in your life today, whether you found your victory and your answers or you are waiting, remember that you have to take courage because you are not alone in this journey.

Wait. It's part of being a human.
The Road is Tough. But it is the journey.
Wait. Because he works in you. He's making a new version of you!.An upgrade.

Halong Bay

IndoChina: Hanoi

2018-03-18T00:00:00.000+08:00

Last October, we seize Indochina starting off in Hanoi, Vietnam – Vientiane, Laos – Bangkok, Thailand in a five day country crawl.

Here's a travel video to sum up all what we had:

Day 00

0200 - 0400: Arrived in Noi Bai International Airport

We arrived early in the airport so we stayed and sleep there. This is a usual practice for me though. I know that Hanoi is a sleeping city and arriving there early in the morning wouldn’t allow us to explore the city.

Tips:

1. It’s hard to exchange currencies to currencies in Noi Bai international Airport esp when you arrive very early in the airport. Better have it exchanged in your local airport prior heading to Noi Bai.

2. Have your local currency exchanged to USD first then exchange it to another currency esp in this region. Aside from Vietnam Dong (VND) they also accept USD as a payment.

3. We trusted UBER instead of local taxi pips who offer a ride from the airport to Hanoi. Price wise, i guess we got a cheaper price having UBER as our ride from airport to Hanoi.

Free wifi yow. Updating status in Social Media. :)

0400 - 0500: Hostel Arrival

We had a bad experience in the hostel when we arrived. They let us in though the receptionist at that time was not accommodating compare to other receptionist through out our stay. Maybe we woke him up early and asked too many questions! Hahaha, that’s why he kept on shouting!

Nevertheless, with no charge, our hostel allowed us to have a bath and drop off things to enjoy our first day in Hanoi!

0600 – 0700: Hanoian Food trip

This year, we thought of seeking local foods. From the reviews i learned prior to this trip and self-educating research when i was creating our itinerary, i learned that Hanoi is a Foody! So we tried Beef Pho in the morning, paired with Egg coffee (for me the best tasting coffee so far in Asia) and bread.

0800 – 0900: Prep to halong Bay

After we strolled the area we had to go back to our hostel and have our things prepared to a day tour in Halong Bay. Click here for a separate post about Halong bay.

Click here for Free downloadable Itinerary
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Travel Video: Youtube

The Arts House @ Old Parliament

2018-03-05T16:40:00.000+08:00

Located in what I call, the heritage and arts district of Singapore is The Arts @ Old Parliament. Yes, because the former Parliament building of Singapore housed in this museum until it transferred into a new home.

Good thing about it is it's free of admission and there are giveaway books and brochures for art enthusiast like me.

The exhibition that i saw was the Old political system of Singapore about the execution of their officials and how the media was able to capture those events before.

The interiors also add so much about the feel of this museum.

I think this is the grand staircase of the museum

So if you are around, this is a nice place to visit while in Singapore.

Get more of this and check out:

Singapore & Malaysia: Crossing Borders
2D2N Singapore City | DIY Budget Travel Guide
2D1N: Kuala Lumpur | DIY Budget Travel Guide
10 Free Things To Do in Singapore
10 Free Instagrammable sites to visit in Kuala Lumpur

Check out more photos on:
Google+ Photos / Facebook
Travel video: Youtube
Download a DIY Budget Travel Guide: 5 Days in Singapore & Malaysia.