picturesque: of glimpses and words

My Eyes

2013-10-08T22:53:00.000+08:00

I wonder how the art in me transforms into paper or maybe even a photograph. But when it comes to sensing beauty in its rawness, my eyes no matter how blurry in the dark they may be, manage to capture a glimpse of picturesque. That is how I groove to the beat of the boredom and quaint-essential life. Even though I went to Abra (somewhere in the Cordillera mountains of the Philippines) for work, I couldn't help but catch a glimpse of the beauty and wonders of nature, structures and people. Yes, I would love to be a photographer although no one can translate that so much beauty of feeling and sensing when you're actually there in that special place and that special moment. Maybe that's what photographs are for, to hold each moment though time is fleeting. I cannot help but feel nostalgic. Even in a country where fisher folks ran most of their part in the archipelago. Even in poverty, I manage to find beauty and hope.

Relax at the Municipal Garden at Caupasan

Sunset View from Mudeng

Abra: Can't Get Enough of the Sunset

What faith and hope is about in Abra

Another picturesque Municipal Hall in a Sunny Day

The Lonely House Lizard

Year-Ender Trip: Rounding-up at Tapuakan River

2012-12-31T22:20:00.001+08:00

Getting places and going back to the places I once visited thrills me every time. I know, I can't help myself but the idea of going somewhere gives me a heart-pounding experience that I cannot explain. I'm a natural "lakwatsera" with a mole on one of my toes. They say that people with moles on their toes have the inexplicable need to go somewhere. You can't blame me, being a homebody before has turned me into one of the most trip-analyzing individual. Trips allow me not only to find relaxation but to see simple things and find beauty in its natural specimen. I have written a lot of blogs for two years now and all has been centered on trips, fun and learning. I share to live a life of legacy and perhaps knowing that beyond every experience, positivism must never fail.

Come 2013, I cannot promise that I would be blogging a lot since circumstances does not warrant it. But I'll try to pitch in a thought or two. Hope this new year also gives you what hopes and expectations you have as well as surprises from up above all throughout. May you celebrate it with your loved ones and continue to create good memories with them.

Here are the shots from my last straw of the year. Tapuakan River revisited... Enjoy the moment and again... Happy New Year!!!

Conquering the Boulder Twice?

Chilling it out in the River

Water Splash War!!!

Don't know what I'm actually doing here... Take a guess???

Water Splash War again for the nth time

A natural beauty to behold

Tapuakan River: A view from the Sidelines

***Photo credits goes to CSA***

San Luis Del Mar: Where Friends Come to Play

2012-08-19T14:24:00.001+08:00

Friendships are part of those that we can always treasure in our lives. It's been how many years now (but I'll keep mum about how many years that was) when I have come into the arms of whom I call true friends. And now, to stop stressing about work (not that I'm complaining). Hey, I love work but all work and no play makes a dull person. So here I went with my friends to play. Take a good swim over the pool while watching the view of the ocean from the pool itself. I believe it was a simple setting but it did measure up to our expectations. The heat and the sun was high up during noon time and after a few days did I realize that my skin was sun-burned. So next time that you want to get a tan, my advise is to put on some sunscreen protection. I can't complain how my forehead has been sun-burned considering that I had real fun with friends. Friends who stood by me through the years. To my sisters, see you again and hope all of us can get together sometime soon. Maybe in San Luis Del Mar or not. But as long as I'm with you, I'm definitely having the time of my life.

Strike a Pose: After all the camera love us or is the other way around?

I took this picture of Ninz, I think it was one of those that needs posting... Hehehe

I don't know what tree this is just found it there (lol)!

The Pathway that leads to the reception area where you can hold private parties.

Nothing More, Nothing Less: A Palmera Plant?

This is a pool alright. Obviously... (lol)

Peek-a-boo: Peeping through the shades

Where the clouds are at... literally!

Posing it out with friend Meg

Elizabeth and the Edralins

2012-07-29T17:02:00.000+08:00

Talk about fine dining and fine music. Hotel Elizabeth in Baguio City has it.This is what we experienced when we checked out their eat-all-you-can Asian Fusion Buffet on a Saturday. Couple it up with the music playing by the band Edralins who spiced-up the mood with their 1960's song and you're whisked away into the classical era. The architecture of the Hotel was really amazing with its Elizabethan features. You only need to fit in a gown and suddenly you will feel like a queen. But hey, you can wear anything inside the hotel! In fact, I was in my rubber shoes that night as I had some sort of an exercise class (well, that's some better way to put it)! Our stomachs were full that night and we waited as the band played from 7 p.m. to around 9 p.m. As we went out of the Flora Restaurant, we had wishes of coming back again.

A sight for the eyes and for the tummy (lol)

Sashimi adorned with flower vegetable cuts (or at least, that's what I call it). I have no talent for cooking (lol) but blend me in for the appreciation of art and taste!

Truffles for Dessert: I'm a sweet tooth so imagine when I'm faced with all these sweets. I can't get over them... So yummy!!!

Watermelons: The buffet included fruits.

Cream Puffs: Creamy Inside with Cherry on Top

An antique lamp: One of the most classical forms I've ever seen. I love taking pictures of these sorts. Great for the interiors of the hotel.

Lounging at the Couch

Me in the Midst of It all (chairs... lol)

Hotel Elizabeth from the Outside at Night

The Edralins with their Catchy Tunes and Beat

I write

2012-07-09T11:37:00.000+08:00

Time is encompassing. I wonder how many times I sat on a chair and wrote what I just wanted to say. Today, I write basically for the fondness of writing. I cannot share stories of my travels anymore because I am figuratively tied to a chair now. But still I don’t forget that I am in the process of learning and exploring my horizons. I write for the memories that made me whole and for the future that awaits me. Yes, I am inspired to write today even if I am within the pleasure of the four corners of this room. I am alone but not lonely for I have something to write about. As always, I quench my thirst with the power of the pen and keep all the positivism in life that I have gained through the years.

As I write, I smile to myself (although with that hidden smile because it would be weird to smile all alone within this room so much as to laugh by myself… lol). But yes, I am happy for the simple pleasures that life has to offer. As always, contentment is a magic word which we should always remember. We should always see the beauty in simple things to be able to share that beauty with others. I write to inspire that despite other people’s journeys, they may find gratitude in what they are doing. I am simply grateful that I have that positivism burning within me. I hope you do too!

Need I say more?

Moods and Modes

2012-06-11T17:56:00.001+08:00

The sun wasn't shining when we were out. It was a little gloomy that day. Worst, it started drizzling. We couldn't help but draw back our hesitation because it's no work day for me. We decided to make the "lakwatsa" somewhere near. And where to? This time at Palm Grove Asin Tuba, Benguet. With travel buddies zye and clau, we started out having breakfast with the "adobo" that zye cooked. Sorry, I wasn't able to picture the "adobo" 'coz it was half-empty when lunch came and gone thereafter. Our conclusion, the experimental "adobo" of zye was real good thanks to friend Gil. Clau, on the other hand, had her cooking skills shown by preparing buttered shrimp (of course this one is for those who want their blood pressure to shoot up). And me? I brought along my smiles and my stories (lol). Along with my water camera which happens to moisten when used longer in the water, I was able to take a few pictures. Of course, except the ones where I am obviously "in". Kidding and sarcasm aside, the wanderer and traveler got hold of the mood and mode. As a result, it was one enjoyable time where the supposed-swimmer who doesn't know to swim but immerse herself in the water (in Filipino, "lublob") got to chillax as some groovy younger generation says so. Whoops, that includes me! No objections please (lol)!

Capturing the Skies: When I say it's gloomy, it really is!

The Octopus slide from afar with the Pools and the Toad Stool

As graceful as the swan... How I wish?

Children's pool slide: Do frogs' heads grow this big? (lol)

My Side of the Story: Riverview Resort

2012-05-03T19:51:00.000+08:00

Words elude me today. So I'm keeping this short and simple. At the same time, I'm sharing these photos during our Labor Day Escapade. The venue was at Riverview Resort at Asin, Benguet. As I dream of more travel destinations, I know that time is of the essence and I have limited time to travel. But in everything that I share, I will forever hold memories and will always be a wanderer and traveler. Hope I share you my side of story - the story of finding beauty in life.

Riverview I think means a view by the river. I was not able to see the river but I'm glad to be engulfed with nature's scenery.

The Hat and Me. Need I say more?

The Duo Strikes Again: Chillaxing Time with Friend Zye in the pool (obviously!)

A shot by my sister showing my brother in his stolen moments. Seems like it was thought of but in truth, it was not. I tried to save this picture because of it's serenity although it was a bit blurry.

Playtime Pool: The pool for kids at 2 feet. Look how crowded Riverview was that day!

Shot from Afar: Another View from the Sidelines

I survived Mt. Pulag

2012-04-08T21:02:00.001+08:00

I was never an adventurist and a mountaineer, although my life sometimes I think is one adventure ride and I literally live in the mountains – a plateau called Baguio City. So I was never into hiking, maybe because I don’t want to get lost and it’s so hard to fall between my knees in the mud. But due to Zye and Clau’s prodding, I was able to hike Mt. Pulag.

Mt. Pulag is the second highest mountain in the Philippines and the first in Luzon. Together with friends who call themselves Jay Mar which included Gil, I never expected to have so much fun. I couldn’t mention them one by one because my memory fails me (lol).

But anyway, I was hesitant in joining the team. Why? Hiking just wasn’t my type and I’m the home body girl who does only the reading and never the cooking (lol). Zye told me that I would only stay at the ranger’s station, but to my amazement I survived up to the camping site. They say it takes 2 hours to climb the mountain. 2 hours of walking? I think I did that in 3 hours or more! My face was literally turning red because of the exhaustion. It was also raining... raining with ice. Yes, you heard it. It was like a mild hailstorm in April weather. This was supposed to be summer! Without raincoats, we covered ourselves with translucent plastic bags. Good thing, the fashion police was not in the mountains only rangers (hahaha).

I was not able to go to the summit because I was soooooooo sleepy. I’m a sleepy head, no one can change that. But we managed to get a few good shots with the camera. So, I’m sharing it with everyone. Tell you what? It was worth the climb. I had a certificate that says “Only the brave and daring survive”! Yes, I survived Mt. Pulag!

On the way to Mt. Pulag

Spectacular Hues

Sun Rise

Bring Me to the Clouds

Trees are the kindest things I know...

To the Top

Walking the Trail

Respect Mt. Pulag

Who has the muddiest shoes or feet contest?

Boracay: Blissful Views

2012-03-09T13:13:00.000+08:00

The View at Boracay, Philippines never fails to amaze me. So I took on the camera and did the best I can to capture the views and the beauty. Here is what I have accomplished so far.

Sun-bathing

Seeing Through

Skies and Trees

Illuminate

Deep Set Blue

Buggies

View from the Buggy

Ocean Tower View Deck

Island

Greenery with a Touch of Blue

Roadway to the Seas and Skies

Coconut

Ready for the Drive?

Radiance

Drinks

Flora in Sight

Set Sails and Fly

The Banana Boat Ride: A Thrilling Experience

From the Ground and Up: Inside Orchids Resort

Boracay Grotto Clad in Sunset

Trees

Orange Sunset

At last, I lay upon the hammock!

Macau: A Mix of the Old and New

2012-03-08T10:26:00.000+08:00

It was winter in Hong Kong, but it was colder in Macau. Macau has the same seasons and weather like Hong Kong but mix it in with the sea breeze, then you need to really cover yourself with coats and thick jackets. From Hong Kong, we took a ferry to Macau. Their being closely knit as to proximity being two hours away by ferry and being both part of the Republic of China, allows you even to use Hong Kong Dollars in Macau. So there's really no need to exchange your HKD for Macau money. What is striking in Macau is that there are various casinos which you can try your luck on. If you're a fan of gambling, then this is a chance to roll the dice on a baccarat or get the jackpot at the slot machines. But if you're not much into these stuffs, then let yourself be encompassed by the beauty of the casinos' architecture and the uniqueness they behold. You will be awed by gold designs or by diamonds or even by crystals. If that is not enough, then be clad with the beauty of Paris serenaded by a singer who rows your boat along the man-made canal. If you're in for treats, take a walk at Senado Square and be delighted with their free taste and sale of various sumptuous goodies. Then walk a little further, and you'll find the St. Paul's Ruins just around the corner. Macau is also home to old architectures. Truly, it is a mix of the old and new.

Macau Tower: A Site for Bungee Jumping (more like the Menara Tower of Malaysia)

Senado Square during Chinese New Year Week

St. Paul's Ruins: It was a Busy Day

Galaxy Casino Entrance

Human Mannequins

City of Dreams Light Show

Feels Like Paris: Venetian Casino

Inside Venetian Casino: Make you say "Wow"!

Pillars and Lights

Row your Boat with a Serenading Maiden

Ocean Park Adventure

2012-03-06T18:51:00.000+08:00

Ocean Park is a place for the children and the child-at-heart. It opens at 10:00 a.m. and closes before 6 p.m. Be sure to be there early for as the day goes on, the line for the rides gets longer. Surely, a day is not enough to try every ride.

What are the mus-try's? Don't forget to watch the Sea Dreams showcasing the dolphins and sea lions and have a scenic view from riding the cable car.

You can buy your tickets at Admiralty and wait there for the shuttle bus to the theme park. A ticket costs 280 hkd per person.

Here are highlights of our Ocean Park Adventure in Hong Kong.

View from the Cable Car 1

View from the Cable Car 2

View from the Cable Car 3

View from the Cable Car 4

View from the Cable Car 5

View from the Cable Car 6

Sea Dreams 1

View from the Ferris Wheel 1

View from the Ferris Wheel 2

Sea Dreams 2

Sea Dreams 3

Hair Raiser?

Cable Cars in Action

Brunette and Black Bear?

Panda

Gold Fish

From the Aquarium

Seems Surreal?

Fish Tank

Hong Kong Streets

2012-03-06T07:49:00.002+08:00

Hong Kong used to be a British colony until sometime in the 1990's when it became part of the Republic of China. As such, it has a rich cultural diversity. The place is entirely safe with almost every street, hotel and sometimes even elevators having CCTV's in it. The streets are a mix of the old and the new. Central Hong Kong being an industrial haven booming with boastful and high buildings while certain parts like Yau Ma Tei and Mongkok have old furnishings and finishing. It's relatively convenient to travel in Hong Kong, with the MTR, shuttle buses and trams around. If you're opting to get to the airport, it is better to ride a shuttle bus. If you're looking for the easiest way to travel then choose the MTR, you won't fail to notice the MTR stations sign in almost every place. If you're looking for the cheapest transportation around then opt for the trams with a ride fare starting from 30 cents hkd.

We have found Tsim Sha Tsui to be a real tourist hub where it is convenient to find shopping malls without need to get to Causeway Bay. Causeway Bay is more like a provincial area compared to Tsim Sha Tsui. Nathan Road is a long road starting from Mongkok to Tsim Sha Tsui. If you're looking for more inexpensive ways to shop then go to Mongkok. They have the market stalls where you can look for a bargain. If Mongkok is not enough for you, then go farther to Wan Chai. But I think Mongkok would be enough to feast your senses.

Try going to the Peak Tram at Central, with 28 hkd, you can ride the tram to the peak with spectacular views. The tram ride is amazing considering that you're literally going up a hill. Go to The Peak, with a 360 degree viewing deck of Hong Kong. But when it's foggy, you won't be able to see the view even from above. In our case, we were there in February and since it's the winter month, with coldness set at 12 degrees Celsius or so. We were not able to see the view. You would then be wasting the 30 hkd per person entrance to view things from the peak.

Winter in February is really cold, especially when you're coming from a tropical country. So bring in your coats, boots and warmers. To pack light for women, I found leggings to be real easy to bring and combine with everything. Just make sure it's thicker. Anyway, in case you failed to bring things that will match the weather, then you can always buy there. Hong Kong is a shopping haven. But come June, you don't need to worry packing light because it's summer and hotter. Check for weather updates before going to Hong Kong.

A Walk in the Hong Kong Streets

Busy Street at Yau Ma Tei

Double Decker Shuttle Bus

Strong-willed Architecture

Double Decker Tram

Fantastic Architecture at Central

Famous Bank: High-rise HSBC Building

Another Architecture Fantastic

A Monument at Central

A Glimpse of Orange Sun

Trees and Fountains never Fails to Amaze

Park at Central

A View from the Harbour

A Hotel at Tsim Sha Tsui

Ocean Park 360 degree Revolving Tower

Totem in the Park

Fountains from Inside a Walkway

The Open Double Decker Bus

With Tita Lyn at a Tram Station

I Learn from Life: Scenes from the Beach

2012-01-26T10:50:00.003+08:00

I will always be a student of life. Age is just a number but maturity is not. As I turned a year older (although it's hard getting used to it), I took on the camera and look back to what I've learned. The most important thing in my travels is sharing so that others can see a glimpse of what I saw. My journeys also has led me to finding myself and to appreciate life. I share to encourage to live and to learn more. I thank all the people who have been there for me through the years. I thank all those who remembered. I will always try to give back in my own little ways.

Here are the learnings that made me as I am. Lessons from the scenes of the beach. The beach is one of the places where one can find solitude and know that there is harmony between landscapes, nature, water and sky. We are all in the center of this harmony. Let us not break it.

There will always be a glimpse of a Rainbow

There is beauty in friendship.

Beauty is everywhere if we learn to use our eyes and heart.

There will always be sunset everyday.

There will be division but there will always be refuge.

Blend in harmony with everything.

Photographer-Wannabe: Weekend Etcetera

2012-01-17T12:52:00.000+08:00

I am a photographer-wannabe. I took the liking because it captures the essence of every being. More than words, it captures moments and beauty. It helps me appreciate that in life there is always beauty everywhere we turn our heads. So I'm sharing my pictures, for everyone to realize to keep the positivism when ever we loose hope.

Baby Pictures: Baby Subjects

I love to capture little children in their moments. It helps me remind that we were once young like them. Even though, I'll be turning a year older (younger!!!I insists!) I still have that child-like enthusiasm. Their smiles help us realize that our world was once innocent and carefree!

Natural Beauty: Flower/ Plant Subject

Nature are God's work of art. Looking through them makes us wonder that there is absolute power hovering over us. Regardless of what religion you belong, every time we breath know that there is an omnipotent power more than being a superficial thing.

Saud Beach: I am Me

2012-01-10T13:53:00.001+08:00

I long for the sand on my feet and the waves of the sea. I long even though I am scared. So scared that it may drown me. So I set on to calmer waters, so I can feel the sand and let the sea water brush my skin. I am no more of light skin but of the darker side. Yet I am humbled by the winds and the beauty that surrounds me. Serenity is what I have. Even though the waves make splashes and the wind hisses. I am me and I will always see the beauty of life.

Sand On My Feet

The Windmills and the Beach

Peace? Serenity? Calmness? Call it Whatever you may!

Driftwood

Boats on the Beach

Shells on the Sand: I picked them up!

Remembering Ferdinand E. Marcos

2012-01-10T12:14:00.000+08:00

Ferdinand E. Marcos is a former president of the Philippines. To some, he is known as a dictator. To others, he may be corrupt. But to many, he is more than that. Perhaps, he must have been one of the most well-achieved individuals and one of the smartest presidents the Philippines had or could ever have. Whatever your point of view is regarding Marcos, it does or doesn't matter. His remains remain in his mausoleum in Ilocos Norte, frozen to keep his body from decomposing unless he is buried in the Libingan ng mga Bayani.

So on our part of the tour, we remember a great individual whose life and death was encompassed by secrets, mysteries and intrigues. If you go around the museum, you can see that he has achieved a lot in his life and in the mausoleum, you will be able to meet Marcos in his coffin. What a weird way to meet a president. Don't you think so?

In front of the Marcos Memorabilia

At the Entrance

Painting Marcos

Bronze Sculpture

Another Statue: In the Office Setting

The House of the Marcoses in Ilocos Norte (pictured by me)

***Photo credits goes to CSA***

Oh Winds of Aged Cape Bojeador, Ilocos Norte

2012-01-10T11:39:00.000+08:00

It was windy that day when we set out at Cape Bojeador, Ilocos Norte. But the scenery never fails to amaze me. So we took pictures of this cape that is already age-old cape. I had my jacket on because of the cold. Most of the pictures you see are taken by me except the ones where I am in it.

"Oh, winds... never leave me though you may blow against my hair...I can feel you... as long as I know you are there. That is enough".

Taking in the View

Arms Stretch? (Is this exercising or what? lol)

Who's Up for the Picture?

Enough of the Camera! We say "Never!" (lol)

Cape Bojeador in its Splendor

Yup, it's me with the Cape!

Moments at the Cape Bojeador

The Beach: As seen from the Cape

Happy Memory Bank: Seeing Through Arinaya Beach Resort

2012-01-10T10:31:00.000+08:00

Pagudpud, Ilocos Sur is not a first but Arinaya Beach Resort is. Indeed, we found Saud beach more thrilling and exotic than Blue Lagoon. So we set out on another journey to reach this place. The accommodations at Arinaya exuded our expectations. Talk about the huge family room that taught us that there is indeed a wide space for everyone. It housed 7 beds that can accommodate up to 8 people or more. The view is exquisite. I have new thoughts to add to my happy memory bank. So I'm sharing it and I hope you indulge and put them in your happy memory bank too!

Looking Through the Distance

Far Out Distance

Looking Through Space

The Drama of Two Trees

View of the Beach from our Cottage

Palmera Tree for our Palmera Cottage

Can't Get Enough of the Sunsets

2011-12-27T20:48:00.001+08:00

I can't get enough of the beach and sunsets. Once is never enough. So I'm sharing these captured moments with my camera at the Acapulco Beach in La Union. I won't stop going to this place to catch a glimpse of the sunset. I was not able to conquer the waves but I will always conquer the sunsets and find these wonderful color bursts. To me, sunsets are not only the downing of the sun as the night comes but rather beauty even though the sun bids goodbye. I will always treasure each memory of each sunset as it goes down. I hope I can capture more sunsets each day before the stars come out.

Semi-circle Sunset (lol)

It's going down... Ready to be conquered by the sea...

The Sky, Sunset, Ships and the Sea

The Sunset and the Beach

Capturing the Lights

2011-12-18T10:11:00.003+08:00

Christmas is in the air. The streets are filled with lights. There are festivities to tune up with the Christmas spirit. This is what we witnessed during the "Simbang Gabi" at Saint Vincent Ferrer Church at Naguilian Road, Baguio City.

Although it was jam-packed, we managed to say our prayers during that early morning. Masses are held until the 25th of December every 5 a.m. in the morning.

There was also the Hundred Nite Show at Philippine Military Academy (PMA). Every year, the academy would showcase their talents on stage. This year, it was hosted by the Bagwis class and the title was "Illuminarya". I was amazed at how they were able to put up a hilarious show. Bravo to the Bagwis class of PMA!

Truly capturing the light was phenomenal!

Illuminarya: The Light and Colors Create Wonders to the Human Forms

Street Lights: Walking the Streets at PMA

"Simbang Gabi" at St. Vincent Ferrer Church

An Early Morning Greeting: Catching the Light and Skies

The After Mass

Ilocos Norte: Spell Spectacular

2011-12-06T19:03:00.001+08:00

My favorite Photo of the Beach

After experiencing the sights and ambiance of the southern part of Ilocos or what we call Ilocos Sur, it was definitely time to set out on a new journey. This time at the northern part of Ilocos or Ilocos Norte. Where we landed there was amazing. We have set out on a journey to Pagudpud with the windy winds at the windmills and the beach at Saud. Topple it up with a visit at the Fort Ilocandia, who would ask for more? As usual, here are snapshots from our journey. This part of the north is quite far than what we expected but the journey is always worth it.
As you can see, I've already resisted having myself being photographed for I opted to keep the camera more to my hands. Most of these pictures were taken by me obviously except the one where I am in it (lol)! Happy viewing!

Obviously... it's the windmills... Kangkang Windmills as I recall... I don't actually know why they were called as Kangkang! Funny sounding names to call Windmills(lol)...

A wall I found at Villa Del Mar at Saud Beach

Mini Park before you get into a Dip in the Sea

Waves at Saud Beach... It was quite windy that day because of the tropical depression from Cagayan... The sea were far from being calm...

The Saud Beach almost near Serenity except for the Few Poeple taking a dip that day!

Wow Pagudpud: with Cess and Henz

Capturing Sights: The Restaurant and Function House at Villa Del Mar

I dont' know what exactly this is... All I know it's that they are nice to take pictures of... lol

The coconut-nut is a giant nut (lol)

Fort Ilocandia Resort

Splendid View: Inside the resort

The Gang with Me as Photographer Wannabe

Baguio City: A City Tour

2011-11-21T19:31:00.001+08:00

It's always a pleasure going back to Baguio every now and then. After the heat of the lowlands and the provinces, Baguio City is a real breath of fresh air. So we took time to savor the perks of being in the City of Pines. Contrary to facts that it's becoming polluted, we find ways to relinquish that there are still trees and a fresh of breath air here and a beauty to behold. Here are pictures that become testaments to this reality. So if you're considering to feel in the coolness that only Baguio City can offer especially these holidays, then do check out these following scenic spots.

PMA (Philippine Military Academy)

You think the place is more for cadets but not anymore. It's a one of the gems of Baguio where clean and fresh air as well as pine trees commune. Don't forget to check their museum where you can take pictures. I think it's one of those rare museums where you can take photos!


Perfect Tree House

Replica of a Cadet's Life

The Blogger Imitating G. H. del Pilar

Long Gray Line or Is it now orange?

Canons and War

PMA Museum: A Maniature

Momentous Monument

The PMA Seal

Botanical Garden: It is a fusion of the indigenous and the floral array. Often unkempt and unimproved nowadays. (Too sad...)

Thing You Find at the Botanical Garden

Botanical Garden: Floral Allure

Wishing Well: Do all wishes come true?

Tam-awan Village: The Venue for the Arts that is truly Cordilleran

Indigenous and Ingenuity

The Dream Catcher

Snails: A Natural Habitation

Let's Dance

2011-11-12T07:15:00.001+08:00

Jack of all trades but master of none. Yes, I am a self-confessed jack of all trades. If there was no word for what I wanted to express, perhaps I'll be creating my own dictionary (lol)! Yes, I am a dreamer. Besides being a frustrated pianist, I too wanted to be a ballerina. But my bones are too brittle that I thought it would crack at bending (lol)! Luckily, I didn't have 2 left feet at all. Yes, I love dancing - from jazz to hiphop and the other dances, I sure did it all once in my life! Whether in school as a requirement, at different occasions or at home, dancing with the music or without any music at all (lol)!

That is why I had the time of my life when my sister invited me to watch her at one of the University of Baguio concert entitled UB Graces. To my amazement, they featured dances from Ethnic to Folk Dance to Ballroom Dance to Contemporary Dances including that underground dance style called "Crumping or Krumping "! If there was versatility in dancing, I give them not only a thumbs up but hands up (lol)!I was awed and wowed by the performances that I so wanted to capture every moment but they were too fast for a newbie like me. But the photos by CSA who was working her feet and hands to keep up with the beat of capturing moments were pretty good. So I'll let you in to the groove and say, let's dance!!!

This says it all: Everybody has the inner G for Grace!

An Ethnic Dance Called Pattung: Consists of Putting Together Clay Pots on the Head without Breaking Them. (Good thing, not one pot was broken or else the floor manager would have to clean up the whole place... lol!)

A Muslim Dance: Sitting Like a Queen on Two Bamboo Sticks (Wow!)

The "Pinasikat na Baso" Dance: I never thought there was this kind of Folk Dance using glasses as an accessory other than for drinking. Filipinos really are imaginative (lol)!

Rigodon Dance: By my Sister "Cha"

Real Ballerina: Wish I could be in her shoes (lol)!

A Contemporary Jazz: With lifts and all (this was one of my favorites during the performance)

A' La Broadway: Spell Spectacular!

Girl Power and the Swagger

Crumping: How I wish I could do that (lol)!

Coron, Palawan: Mt. Tapyas Hotel

2011-11-08T14:39:00.000+08:00

After going to Coron for the second time around, we know that finding the best accommodation deals traveling in the Philippines generally lies in staying in lodging houses (I know it's so "kuripot" but why spend too much when you can save more???). But, oh boy, we were wrong! This is what we proved when we were booked in Mt. Tapyas hotel in Coron (Busuanga), Palawan. After the staff attended to our every request, we were really glad we stayed here.

Compared to the typical lodging houses in Coron which consists of nipa-like houses, Mt. Tapyas is a spell of class, comfort and affordability. You can even walk from the hotel to the port (which happens to be where the market and plaza is located together with the boats you will use for island hopping) in 15 minutes. You can dine sumptuous meals which by the way are really delicious (and which I forgot to take pictures of because we were really famished!). You can choose a mountain view or sea view of their rooms which ever suits your taste.

Indeed, our stay was a spectacular stay. Every request, every problem and every need were responded with warmness. Thanks to Mt. Tapyas Hotel!

So if ever you're planning to visit the spectacular Coron, Palawan, do consider a stay in Mt. Tapyas Hotel. You'll never regret it! We never did!

The Entrance Header

Garden View of the Hotel

Waiting by the Entrance

My Bed for 3 Nights (This was before I turned it into a choatic whirlwind... lol)

View from the Bar

Bar Snapshots: 1. Zye looks at the Spectacular Ocean View; 2 and 3: Views of the gang with Lot

View of the Bar at Night: Where we commune every night to discuss financial affairs and dine and drink!

Sun, Sea and Sand

2011-11-05T13:28:00.000+08:00

There are many islands in Coron, Palawan. Most of them have white sands that are soft and fine which makes it so endearing to brush against your toes.It can have an ankle-deep water where you can get down and get dirty in the sand like in Bulog Island or shallow waters in Malcapuya or clear waters for snorkeling in Banana Island. This is what we were able to capture this time - getting down and dirty under the sun and the sand. Like little children at play, we had fun. Here are snapshots that made us realize that it's really nice to have fun, smile, laugh and live life the most.

Getting Down and Dirty in the Sand

Pulling the Boat Rope

Who Didn't Make it to the Jump Shot? Me!!!

Beach Bodies? Not So! (lol)

Random: Hey, What's Going On?