tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-66345446346798240712024-03-19T18:28:33.331+08:00Pinay Travel JunkiePinay Travel Junkiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15807759614906657509noreply@blogger.comBlogger389125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6634544634679824071.post-32279262896658668782014-08-07T12:00:00.001+08:002014-08-07T12:15:31.528+08:00Asian Eats 2014 Press Release<div style="text-align: left;">
This weekend, let's embark on an Asian gastronomic adventure!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Happening tomorrow 'til the 10th is the Asian Eats food festival at the 2nd Floor Atrium of The Podium, Ortigas. Asian Eats will feature a plethora of traditional and modern/fusion flavors from Philippines, Turkey, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, India, and many more. The 3-day event, hosted by Asia Society Philippines, Pinoy Eats World and The Podium, is part of Pinoy Eats World’s regular World Eats bazaar.<br />
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14662264030" title="asianeats2 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="asianeats2" height="346" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3912/14662264030_631a059b92_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<br />
<br />
<i>"Take a culinary tour around Southeast Asia, starting off with traditional Indonesian cuisine by Chef Rita Binibule<b> (Rita’s Indonesian Kitchen).</b> Thai restaurant <b>NAV</b>, Vietnamese restaurant <b id="yui_3_16_0_1_1407381051355_3017">P.H.A.T. Pho</b>, and Singaporean bistro <b>Your Local</b> will be stirring up taste buds with a modern take on Southeast Asian cuisines. Chef Claude Tayag’s <b>Downtown Cafe by Bale Dutung </b>will serve up Filipino fare with a twist, while <b>Inasalan sa Dalan</b> will offer Ilonggo classics.</i>
<i></i><br />
<i><br />
To add to this gastronomic feast, Manila-based cooks from around Asia will be sharing authentic dishes from their homelands. <b id="yui_3_16_0_1_1407381051355_3020">Maharajas Kababs</b> by Aashish Mirpuri will spice up the event with Northern Indian cuisine. Suzy Lee’s <b>Spring by Ha Yuan</b> will offer a fresh, healthy take on Chinese comfort food classics. Turkish-national Aysegul Ozden Trifyllis <b>(Ayse’s Turkish Cuisine)</b> and Korean-national Tina Hong Garcia<b> (Bi Won)</b> will present their interpretations of the flavors of their home countries.</i>
<i></i><br />
<i><br />
Foodies can look forward to pairing their food with unique concoctions by <b id="yui_3_16_0_1_1407381051355_3016">EDSA Beverage Design Studio</b>. Finally, satisfy your sweet tooth by checking out modern patisserie <b id="yui_3_16_0_1_1407381051355_3021">Pink Wasabi, </b>who will be serving their trademark kashi maki (sweet hand-rolled sushi cakes) and other unique desserts. </i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>Guests will also have the opportunity to learn more about the culture of
our Asian neighbors. On Saturday, August 9, there will be a live Roti
Canai cooking demonstration by chefs from Berjaya Hotel
Makati, and musical performances by acoustic guitarist Alyza Barro and
Indonesian singers. On Sunday, August 10, there will be a demonstration
by Turkish Chef Illhami and a performance by K-pop cover group NEO. <br />
<br />
Asian Eats is presented by Del Monte and sponsored by SYSU International
and Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. ANC, Solar TV, Manila Times, SPOT.ph,
WhenInManila.com and Rappler are media partners for this event."<br />
</i><br />
<br />
<i></i><br />
<center>
For updates, stay tuned on <b>#AsianEatsMNL</b> and visit the event’s page <a href="http://tiny.cc/asianeatsMNL" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://tiny.cc/asianeatsMNL</a> for more information. You may contact Marge or Rina at 550-2612, 810-8983 or at <a href="mailto:info@asiasociety.org.ph" rel="nofollow" style="color: #f26532; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">info@asiasociety.org.ph</a> for questions.</center>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<center>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="http://www.facebook.com/sharer.php" name="fb_share" type="box_count">Share</a><script src="http://static.ak.fbcdn.net/connect.php/js/FB.Share" type="text/javascript"></script><script src="http://www.stumbleupon.com/hostedbadge.php?s=5"></script><a class="twitter-share-button" data-via="nomadwifey" href="https://twitter.com/share">Tweet</a>
<script>!function(d,s,id){var js,fjs=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];if(!d.getElementById(id)){js=d.createElement(s);js.id=id;js.src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js";fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js,fjs);}}(document,"script","twitter-wjs");</script>
<script>!function(d,s,id){var js,fjs=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];if(!d.getElementById(id)){js=d.createElement(s);js.id=id;js.src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js";fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js,fjs);}}(document,"script","twitter-wjs");</script><br />
<br />
<!-- Start FastWebCounter.com --><a href="http://www.fastwebcounter.com/" title="Free Web Counter">This page was viewed <script src="http://fastwebcounter.com/secure.php?s=http://www.pinaytraveljunkie.com/2014/08/asian-eats-2014-press-release.html"></script> times.</a><br />
<!-- End FastWebCounter.com -->Pinay Travel Junkiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15807759614906657509noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6634544634679824071.post-5924874241205897982014-08-05T04:58:00.000+08:002014-08-08T06:29:21.377+08:00The Week That Was In Mexican FoodIf a cuisine's on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List, it must be something.<br />
<br />
The Mexican fare, a marriage of Mesoamerican cooking techniques/main staples and European food components (such as cheese and meat and herbs), is one of the most complex my taste buds have ever encountered. It's up there with Persian, Indian and Chinese. The ingredients of dishes, I could not easily detect. And a lot of them I didn't/don't even know of.<br />
<br />
Case in a point: Papaloquelite and huauzontle and huitlacoche (fungus that grows on corn). <i>IKR?! </i><br />
<br />
The function of food for Mexicans is not only to fuel the body. It plays a role in traditions and festivals (such as<i> <span class="st">Día de Muertos</span></i>), and everyday social gatherings. The preparation itself, which mostly takes hours, draws people together. <br />
<br />
To pay homage to this intangible cultural heritage (and to food technology), I the pilgrim, sampled all sorts of Mexican food for a week in Cancun. Plus uhm, two days in Palenque. I can see the aftermath on my significantly wider waistline now, but that's a non-significant issue I shall deal with later.<br />
<br />
Here are some of the delights I stuffed myself with:<br />
<br />
1. Tacos. The most popular <span class="st"></span><span class="st"></span>Mexican dish <span class="st">— outside Mexico</span>, I daresay. Wheat or corn (I prefer the latter) tortilla, topped/filled with different kinds of meat (beef, chicken, pork, seafood) plus cheese and veggies. Always accompanied by either guacamole or salsa or pickled onions. I like mine with salsa verde, a kind of salsa made with <i>tomatillos</i>. There's a plethora of traditional varieties in every Mexican state, dictated by the region's main spices and produce.<br />
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14795750415" title="food1 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="food1" height="352" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3892/14795750415_e03049604b_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<center>
Vegetarian tacos which we ordered three times last week. 50 MXN for three at Mercado 28, Cancun Centro. Also, we bought tacos with chorizo and mushrooms from a street stand near our hotel. 5 MXN each.</center>
<br />
2. Pollo En Mole Poblano. Mole, from Nahuatl (Aztec language) word <i>mōlli</i>, means 'sauce'. Such term is used for a variety of sauces. The states of Puebla and Oaxaca (Tlaxcala too) claim to be the origin of it. Mole poblano, my fave, is a kind of mole that's composed of a million ingredients <span class="st">— okay, maybe about twenty</span> (including ancho chili or <i>poblano</i> and chipotle and sometimes chocolate) <span class="st">— </span>pound together to form a paste. Added with water and simmered in a pot, it results to a thick, dark-colored sauce. This sauce is poured over turkey or chicken. <b>Had the best in Puebla.</b><br />
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14611053770" title="food2 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="food2" height="353" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2904/14611053770_469705de1e_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<div style="text-align: center;">
55 MXN, ordered twice in a week at Mercado 28. </div>
<br />
3. Filete De Pescado Empanizado. Ordered at a time when my palate had a craving for subtle flavors. Breaded fish fillet with refried beans (<i>refried</i> means well fried, not 'fried again'), <i>arroz</i> (rice), beans and salad. Not really traditional, but like the <i>milanesa</i> (breaded beef, chicken or pork), it's a pretty popular <i>comida</i>. <span class="st">Especially to <i>niños y niñas.</i> </span><br />
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14611084957" title="food2 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="food2" height="349" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2908/14611084957_779d9a3a07_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<center>
One of the comidas fijas (set meals) at Cochipavos, Mercado 28. 65 MXN. Comes with tomato-based pasta soup and <i>jugo</i> (juice). Their <i>tamarindo jugo</i> (tamarind juice) is yuhuhum! </center>
<center>
</center>
<center>
</center>
<div style="text-align: left;">
4. Carne Asada De Cerdo. Grilled thinly sliced, marinated meat (usually beef). This one's pork, marinated with salt and lime. Sometimes carne asada is served as the main dish. Sometimes chopped to be used as filling for tacos and quesadillas and other <i>antojitos</i> (snacks).</div>
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14823310032" title="food3 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="food3" height="350" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5553/14823310032_61d193d743_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Also one of the comidas fijas at Cochipavos, Mercado 28. 60 MXN.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
5. Nachos. <i>Created</i> by restaurateur Ignacio "Nacho" Anaya, circa 1943. The story goes that Anaya whipped up the meal with the few ingredients he had left in his kitchen for a group of wives of U.S. soldiers who arrived at his restaurant after it had closed. He cut tortillas into smaller pieces, added shredded cheese then heated them. Before serving he tossed in pickled jalapeños. Anaya's son, Ignacio Anaya Jr., stated that the person who named it 'Nachos Especiales' was Mamie Finan, after the snack was served to her and her friends.</div>
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14824255045" title="food4 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="food4" height="348" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3855/14824255045_646646c483_o.jpg" width="525" /></a>
</center>
<center>
Free appetizer at Restaurante Margely, Mercado 28. Uber oily, this batch, but couldn't stop eating them. Spicy salsa verde on the side numbed my tongue.<br /><br />
</center>
<div style="text-align: left;">
6. Huevos Rancheros. Popular Mexican <i>desayuno</i> (breakfast) of fried eggs on fried tortillas topped with tomato and chili sauce. Served with beans and sometimes rice.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14637891157" title="food5 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="food5" height="347" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2932/14637891157_5e4c5caa93_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<center>
35 MXN, served with a small basket of warm tortilla.</center>
<center>
</center>
<div style="text-align: left;">
7. Huevos Motuleños. Another <i>desayuno</i> meal which originated in Motul City, Yucatan. Like the huevos rancheros, it's made of fried eggs on tortilla with tomato sauce. But also with other ingredients like ham and fried plantain (and sometimes cheese).</div>
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14824501985" title="food6 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="food6" height="349" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5551/14824501985_3c9050fbe3_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<center>
50 MXN with coffee and juice.</center>
<center>
</center>
<div style="text-align: left;">
8. Pancita. Also called menudo (the Philippines has a tomato-based stew of the same name but is made of pork and liver). Tripe in a light, chili-based soup. Not spicy. Cooked for hours! Chopped cilantro, onions, and a squeeze of lime are added upon serving. Eaten with tortilla.</div>
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14637982229" title="food7 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="food7" height="347" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3884/14637982229_bbae141682_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<center>
55 MXN for a big bowl. Wasn't able to finish all that tripe. Over. Whelming.</center>
<center>
</center>
<div style="text-align: left;">
9. Gordita. My new fave antojito! Thick tortilla made with corn flour (dough resembles that of the Philippine empanada's), fried or baked, stuffed with meat and cheese and vegetables.</div>
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14824507272" title="food8 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="food8" height="349" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3903/14824507272_2fc009ba44_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<center>
Crispy outside, soft inside. Stuffed with chicken, veggies and cheese. 22 MXN.</center>
<center>
</center>
<center>
</center>
<div style="text-align: left;">
10. Carne Al Pastor (sheperd-style), <i>Res</i> (beef). Spit-grilled/roasted meat, thinly sliced, then served with rice. Or used as fillings for a variety of antojitos. Meat is marinated with various spices and chiles and pineapple. This al pastor meal I had even got pineapple bits.</div>
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14638485448" title="food9 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="food9" height="350" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3856/14638485448_910d8e4841_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<center>
Another one from Cochipavos' comidas fijas. 65 MXN. </center>
<center>
</center>
<div style="text-align: left;">
11. <span class="st">Cochinita Pibil. <i>Cochinita </i>means baby pig and <i>pibil</i> means buried. Suckling pig, roasted in a fire pit. These days, other pork cuts are used as alternative. Meat is marinated in citrus juice before it is slow-roasted (wrapped in banana leaf). Achiote (<i>atsuete</i> in the Philippines) gives it a reddish hue. </span></div>
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14828796092" title="food12 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="food12" height="349" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3843/14828796092_d3cb79d43f_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
Served with rice, refried beans and pickled onions. 60 MXN.</div>
<br />
12. Torta. A Mexican sandwich that uses an oblong white bread/roll and is filled with meat, cheese, caramelized onions and peppers. I like mine with grilled/toasted bread, al pastor, Oaxaca cheese and <i>cebolla asada</i> (roasted onion).</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14845088843" title="food10 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="food10" height="349" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3891/14845088843_6baf33641e_o.jpg" width="525" /></a><br />
27 MXN at the perpetually busy Tropi Tacos, Palenque.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
13. Sope. An antojito of fried masa (thick, round-shaped, pinched on the sides) topped with meat, beans, veggies and cheese. This one I had is more like a <i>huareche</i>. A variation of the sope which is oblong in shape. Similar to the shape of a Mexican sandal of the same name.</div>
</div>
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14825721021" title="food11 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="food11" height="349" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3917/14825721021_94172400cd_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<center>
30 MXN at Antojitos Estilo Hidalgo, Palenque.</center>
<center>
</center>
<div style="text-align: left;">
14. Quesadilla. Here's another familiar antojito. The word is a portmanteau of <i>queso </i>(cheese) and tortilla. Corn or flour tortilla, filled not only with cheese but also meat and veggies. Folded in half.</div>
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14829403095" title="food13 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="food13" height="349" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5582/14829403095_029ce9ee4a_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<center>
Quesadilla con queso. 16 MXN. With buddies taco bisteck and taco sirloin. </center>
<center>
<br /><center>
</center>
</center>
<div style="text-align: left;">
15. Because uhm, <i>cerveza </i>is food.<br />
<br /></div>
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14828127114" title="food14 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="food14" height="568" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5563/14828127114_e1c4090b68_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<br />
I remember being asked by Pop Talk host <i>Kuya</i> Tonipet Gaba in <a href="http://www.pinaytraveljunkie.com/2014/04/pop-talk-third-anniversary-special-look.html"><u>the show's third anniversary specia</u></a>l (while doing a review of some new Mexican resto in Boracay) if I can eat Mexican food every day. <b>My answer was a quick <i>'yes'</i>.</b> And I reckon this list is a dang good explanation. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.facebook.com/sharer.php" name="fb_share" type="box_count">Share</a><script src="http://static.ak.fbcdn.net/connect.php/js/FB.Share" type="text/javascript"></script><script src="http://www.stumbleupon.com/hostedbadge.php?s=5"></script><a class="twitter-share-button" data-via="nomadwifey" href="https://twitter.com/share">Tweet</a>
<script>!function(d,s,id){var js,fjs=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];if(!d.getElementById(id)){js=d.createElement(s);js.id=id;js.src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js";fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js,fjs);}}(document,"script","twitter-wjs");</script>
<script>!function(d,s,id){var js,fjs=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];if(!d.getElementById(id)){js=d.createElement(s);js.id=id;js.src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js";fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js,fjs);}}(document,"script","twitter-wjs");</script><br />
<br />
<!-- Start FastWebCounter.com --><a href="http://www.fastwebcounter.com/" title="Free Web Counter">This page was viewed <script src="http://fastwebcounter.com/secure.php?s=http://www.pinaytraveljunkie.com/2014/08/the-week-that-was-rein-mexican-food.html"></script> times.</a><br />
<!-- End FastWebCounter.com -->Pinay Travel Junkiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15807759614906657509noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6634544634679824071.post-35173901894791334422014-07-30T08:20:00.000+08:002014-07-30T08:32:24.722+08:00Choose Aloha. Choose Scott Hawaii.The quest for eternal summer is arduous and costly. It is neverending.<br />
<br />
But the quest for quintessential summer sandals, for me, is over.<br />
<br />
Three months ago, a <i>Pualani</i> pair was sent from the <i>Aloha State</i> to our doorstep in Sydney, Australia. It's my first Scott Hawaii sandals, and prior its delivery, I had not come across the brand. I unboxed and unwrapped and stared at them with slight skepticism. Sure, the plumeria detail makes it a charmer, but the bicast leather straps and insole don't seem like they can stand abuse.<br />
<br />
And I'm a manhandler of things.<br />
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14591581640" title="scott1 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="scott1" height="342" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2924/14591581640_c05134d026_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona. Pardon my ginger-esque hooves.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
My Pualani pair traveled with us from Australia to Malaysia to Singapore and to Philippines. Unused. I assumed it won't be able to handle the ruggedness of our chosen trails. Plus, I randomly picked the wedge-heeled kind, I thought it won't be comfy for long strolls.<br />
<br />
During our recent U.S.A. trip, I decided to give 'em a go for they were
starting to collect dust under our bed in the Philippines. And I worried
that the pair will start flaking. </div>
</div>
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14592308719" title="scott2 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="scott2" height="349" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3856/14592308719_612e6e4fe2_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<center>
Kailua Beach, Oahu Island, Hawaii. Ye, they traveled back to Hawaii.</center>
<center>
</center>
<div style="text-align: left;">
My Pualanis traveled back to Hawaii and basked under the summer sun, fashionably sauntered in California's Bay Area, saw otherworldly tufa towers in California's Mono County, trudged along an ancient <span class="st">bristlecone<i> </i></span>pine forest, and hiked a bit in Nevada's Grand Canyon National Park.<br />
<br />
They proved me wrong and swept me off my feet (<b>thank goodness not literally</b>).<br />
<br />
I felt clumsy walking on them at first since I rarely wear heeled thongs, but got used to the pair quickly. They're lightweight, at the same time sturdy. I only wish they come in more happy hue combos that represent the colorful Polynesian culture.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14594073968" title="scott4 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="scott4" height="349" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2920/14594073968_705f37b563_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<center>
Amongst <i>tufa</i> towers, Mono County, California. </center>
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
Scott Hawaii was founded by Elmer and Jean Scott in 1932 after they moved from <span class="st">Massachusetts to the territory of Hawaii. Their specialty was plantation boots for the sugarcane and pineapple field workers who were prevalent back in the day. It didn't take long for Elmer and Jean to establish a reputation within their community for they are from a long lineage of shoemakers.</span><br />
<br />
<span class="st">During World War II, materials became scarce, and businesses catering to the U.S. military service were given priority access to such materials. And so Scott Hawaii began focusing on casual footwear.</span><span style="color: #454176; font-family: tahoma,arial,helvetica,sans-serif;"></span> </div>
<center>
</center>
<center>
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14756215886" title="scott3 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="scott3" height="349" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2902/14756215886_cdb9760d25_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<center>
My Pualani pair trudged along the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest, Inyo County, Eastern California.</center>
<center>
</center>
<div style="text-align: left;">
No doubt, Scott Hawaii has come a long way and on a different path from its past. Yet the current products still embody the spirit of its predecessors by being functional and solid.<br />
<br />
And it definitely speaks of Hawaii. Can't wait to get another pair.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>You could win a pair of Scotts! Brewing an online contest open to US residents. Stay tuned for details!</i></div>
<br />
<br /></div>
</center>
<a href="http://www.facebook.com/sharer.php" name="fb_share" type="box_count">Share</a><script src="http://static.ak.fbcdn.net/connect.php/js/FB.Share" type="text/javascript"></script><script src="http://www.stumbleupon.com/hostedbadge.php?s=5"></script><a class="twitter-share-button" data-via="nomadwifey" href="https://twitter.com/share">Tweet</a>
<script>!function(d,s,id){var js,fjs=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];if(!d.getElementById(id)){js=d.createElement(s);js.id=id;js.src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js";fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js,fjs);}}(document,"script","twitter-wjs");</script>
<script>!function(d,s,id){var js,fjs=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];if(!d.getElementById(id)){js=d.createElement(s);js.id=id;js.src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js";fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js,fjs);}}(document,"script","twitter-wjs");</script><br />
<br />
<!-- Start FastWebCounter.com --><a href="http://www.fastwebcounter.com/" title="Free Web Counter">This page was viewed <script src="http://fastwebcounter.com/secure.php?s=http://www.pinaytraveljunkie.com/2014/07/choose-aloha-choose-scott-hawaii.html"></script> times.</a><br />
<!-- End FastWebCounter.com -->Pinay Travel Junkiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15807759614906657509noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6634544634679824071.post-28057249085913384902014-07-16T10:23:00.004+08:002014-07-18T14:57:27.169+08:00Hulhumalé, Maldives: A Newborn Artificial IslandOur low-cost airline flight provided an on-board entertainment that surpassed all others we've experienced... The spectacle of Maldives' islands, strung together like a jewel necklace, sitting oh so pretty in the middle-ish of Indian Ocean nowhere. It was one of those travel moments filled with imaginative swear words, muttered under the breath.<br />
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14468644617" title="hulhumale1 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="hulhumale1" height="349" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3835/14468644617_1bfd04b5f9_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Hulhumalé's public beach. Frequented by Maldivians. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
The Republic of Maldives never made it to our bucket list prior the trip, because back then it was our<span class="st"></span> choice not to afford it. Hubby and I keep our respective lists quite realistic. And Maldives is one of them countries we thought we'll only consider visiting when we're old and gray and subject to carbon dating.<br />
<br />
We felt our few savings was better spent somewhere else.</div>
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14654333044" title="hulhumale2 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="hulhumale2" height="349" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5546/14654333044_59068dac18_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<center>
<a href="http://www.agoda.com/hulhumale-inn/hotel/male-city-and-airport-mv.html?cid=1650370" rel="nofollow"><u>Hulhumalé Inn</u></a>, our accommodation on the island.</center>
<br />
But we chanced upon an airline company website glitch last year <span class="st">— thanks to a tip that circulated within the travel blogging community </span><span class="st"><span class="st">—</span></span> which allowed us to book a cheap flight from Sydney to Kuala Lumpur to <span class="st">Malé for three. The total price, about $4. We took that as a sign. Cause really, we'd be stupid not to grab such rare opportunity. So we purchased tickets. Without worries whether we could fund the unplanned luxe getaway or not.</span><br />
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14678388373" title="hulhumale3 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="hulhumale3" height="347" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5595/14678388373_cbb9f950e4_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<center>
A Maldivian 'bench'. Dunno what they're looking at.</center>
<center>
</center>
<center>
</center>
<div style="text-align: left;">
And two months later, there we were celebrating our fifth year of togetherness with our toddler Luna, thousands of feet above the ground.The flight itself exceeded our expectations. Ibrahim Nasir International Airport, or simply Malé International Airport, ain't much of a looker. But outside its arrival hall where the port for ferries to the capital and private resorts' speed boats is, one can have a quick taste of paradise. The water is a gorgeous aquamarine.</div>
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14473008669" title="hulhumale4 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="hulhumale4" height="349" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3925/14473008669_7df1b7e841_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<center>
A more conservative approach to clothing on this inhabited island.</center>
<br />
<center>
</center>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Queues at the immigration counters were long, took a while before our turn. And when it was, the officer simply stamped our passports. No questions asked. We grabbed our luggage and sped towards the arrivals. We arranged our pickup ($15 for all of us) through <span class="st">Hulhumalé Inn, a ten-room guesthouse on </span><span class="st">Hulhumalé Island, wherein we were booked for the night. We would have taken the public bus, but each passenger was only allowed a luggage each. After shopping in Australia, we had tons.</span></div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #cc0000;"><b><span class="st">Public Bus Service On </span><span class="st">Hulhumalé Island</span></b></span> </div>
</blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
A bus service runs between Malé International Airport and <span class="st">Hulhumalé island between 6:00AM to 2:00AM, </span><span class="st">operated by Maldives Transport and Contracting Company. It leaves</span><span class="st"><span class="st"> Nirolhu Magu's (<i>neighborhood 1)</i></span> bus stop roughly every forty minutes to one hour and is a mere 15 minute-ride. Station at the airport should just be outside the arrival hall. Ask around. In the evening, bus <i><b>may</b></i> run every two hours. Each passenger's allowed only a luggage each at the time of our travel (2013). Fare is MVR3 or about US$.20.</span></blockquote>
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14663776755" title="hulhumale5 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="hulhumale5" height="349" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3904/14663776755_b8a638d130_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Man-made beauty, this reclaimed island.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Driver helped us dump all our stuff in the van (Maldivians know so well how to give good service, in such regard, keep a stash of small bills to give away as tips). Our party of three was whisked to the guesthouse, not stopping for anything even when some locals signaled to hitch a ride. Upon arrival, we were handed welcome drinks. The staff brought our luggage up the room while we quickly filled out the check in forms. We couldn't wait to explore the hood.</div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #cc0000;"><b><span class="st">
Hulhumalé Inn
Review</span></b></span></div>
</blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<div style="text-align: left;">
It did its job well in giving us a comfy pod to sleep in. Our simple double room priced at UD$70 excluding taxes and fees (Yep, welcome to the Maldives!) has an en suite bath and a small balcony. It faces the main street which never gets too hectic. WiFi was a pain, hair-pulling slow during the few times we were able to connect. A simple brekkie is included in the room rates. Egg and toast and cereal. Coffee and tea. Kitchen opens at 6:30-7:00AM. There are cafes nearby, and the beach is just a couple of blocks to the east. The guesthouse offers package tours. Staff was as warm as the Maldivian sun's rays.</div>
</blockquote>
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14477461499" title="hulhumale6 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="hulhumale6" height="349" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5535/14477461499_6f5b8c86b2_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Beach got busy as the day approached sundown.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="st">Hulhumalé's role to us was not limited to being a transit stop. It served as an educator. It gave us a brief introduction to Maldivian culture. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="st"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="st">The island was constructed (completed in 2002) on a shallow lagoon in the same atoll as the capital's, and is linked to the island of Hulhul</span><span class="st">é. Its purpose is to address the country's </span>growing population density. On our stroll around the neighborhood that afternoon, we passed by blocks and blocks of newly built (and under construction) residential buildings. Structures are mostly four to five stories high. Not all were occupied. Perhaps exodus has not commenced yet.<br />
<br />
<span class="st"></span></div>
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14478380378" title="hulhumale7 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="hulhumale7" height="349" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2913/14478380378_d733fb8010_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<center>
New flats. Cheaper rent compared to Mal<span class="st">é's.</span></center>
<center>
<span class="st"> </span></center>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="st">From the relatively busy </span><span class="st"><span class="st"><span class="st">Nirolhu Magu street, we walked two blocks to get to the shore. At the public beach, we let our feet sink into the white, powdery sand. <b>I could not believe we were basking in artificial paradise. </b></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span class="st"><span class="st"><span class="st">Hubby and Luna waded in the water while I watched a group of local women, all covered up, lie on/roll over the sand and chitchat and giggle like young girls. Islam is the official religion of Maldives. On inhabited islands, female tourists are expected to maintain a conservative approach to clothing. The thought of swimming in pants and shirt put me off (though I knew about this beforehand) since I didn't see any public changing rooms nearby. I'd have to saunter back to our guesthouse dripping. I don't know what's more unacceptable: Being in the water wearing a swimsuit, or being out on the street looking like a wet t-shirt contest participant. Nah to both.</span></span></span></div>
<center>
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14478900497" title="hulhumale8 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="hulhumale8" height="349" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2909/14478900497_4dff0f3444_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<span class="st">Access to public beach. Not a lot of seaside cafes here. Alcohol is only sold/may only be consumed in Hulhul</span><span class="st"><span class="st">é Island Hotel.</span></span></center>
<center>
<span class="st"> </span></center>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="st">Before heading back to </span><span class="st"><span class="st">Hulhumalé Inn, we searched for a place to eat because the guesthouse doesn't sell food.</span></span> T<span class="st"><span class="st">here</span></span> were only a handful of convenience stores and <i>sai hotaa </i>(tea shop) on the island<span class="st"><span class="st"> during our visit. Like in India and Sri Lanka, the cafes are mostly populated by men. I was the only female at Cafe De when we dined. We ordered a fishcake which tasted more like a hot pepper cake, sweet sticky rice (apparently to balance out the spiciness of the pepper patty </span></span><span class="st">– I mean, fishcake), and hamburger (a safe order for Luna).</span></div>
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14642701296" title="guide6 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="guide6" height="338" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2932/14642701296_cfba3b0460_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Fishcake. Or so we were told.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
A cafe's a great place to start interacting with locals. In our case however, we weren't thrown random questions. We only received a lot of stares. I initially thought, perhaps because I'm female. But then the Maldivians, to me, didn't seem overly conservative. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Maybe <span class="st"><span class="st">Hulhumalé's residents are simply not used to curious travelers. Not like the thousands deployed in other islands who were trained to entertain. Or maybe this newborn community </span></span><span class="st">– </span><span class="st"> a melting pot of sorts </span><span class="st">– </span><span class="st"><span class="st"> is still in the process of welding its cliques within. And still in the process of establishing their set of norms which has not tackled the subject of striking up conversations with foreigners. Or for all I know, we just didn't stumble upon a local who's intrigued enough.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="st"><span class="st"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="st"><span class="st">The island of </span></span><span class="st"><span class="st">Hulhumalé, the newest kid on the block ( or make that, the newest island in the atoll), may be artificial, but it gives visitors a peek at real Maldivian life. Something you won't witness in a high end resort. Something </span></span><span class="st">worth experiencing even for a short while.</span></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br />
<i><b>Missed our guide to backpacking Maldives? Click <a href="http://www.pinaytraveljunkie.com/2014/01/backpacking-maldives-or-what-have-we.html">HERE</a>.</b></i></div>
<br />
<a href="http://www.facebook.com/sharer.php" name="fb_share" type="box_count">Share</a><script src="http://static.ak.fbcdn.net/connect.php/js/FB.Share" type="text/javascript"></script><script src="http://www.stumbleupon.com/hostedbadge.php?s=5"></script><a class="twitter-share-button" data-via="nomadwifey" href="https://twitter.com/share">Tweet</a>
<script>!function(d,s,id){var js,fjs=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];if(!d.getElementById(id)){js=d.createElement(s);js.id=id;js.src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js";fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js,fjs);}}(document,"script","twitter-wjs");</script>
<script>!function(d,s,id){var js,fjs=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];if(!d.getElementById(id)){js=d.createElement(s);js.id=id;js.src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js";fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js,fjs);}}(document,"script","twitter-wjs");</script><br />
<br />
<!-- Start FastWebCounter.com --><a href="http://www.fastwebcounter.com/" title="Free Web Counter">This page was viewed <script src="http://fastwebcounter.com/secure.php?s=http://www.pinaytraveljunkie.com/2014/07/hulhumale-maldives-newborn-artificial.html"></script> times.</a><br />
<!-- End FastWebCounter.com -->Pinay Travel Junkiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15807759614906657509noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6634544634679824071.post-69582987998695948032014-07-10T08:22:00.001+08:002014-07-10T08:30:03.461+08:00Istanbul, Turkey Accommodations: Sultan's Inn Hotel ReviewIt was a smart move to organize a hotel pick up. Hefty at <span id="rptExtraService_ctl01_lblSalesAmount">25,00 €, but worth every </span>dang cent. After a Philippines-Singapore-Malaysia-United Arab Emirates-Turkey transit, we were sleep-deprived and weary to the bones and bordering deranged. Our cabbie was at Atatürk International Airport's arrival hall on the dot, and in my head I wanted to run towards him and squeeze him in delight.<br />
<br />
What I did in real life, as a greeting, was a mere grunt.<br />
<br />
<center>
</center>
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14493311096" title="sultan1 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="sultan1" height="350" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5579/14493311096_b2b8b3e225_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<center>
Sultan's Inn's rooftop, where guests can have brekkie.</center>
<br />
With droopy eyes, I watched the Turkish world out my window as we whizzed towards the heart of Sultanahmet. The drive's about half an hour, and a part of our route unveiled a view of the Sea of Marmara. That certainly kept me up.<br />
<br />
Our room wasn't available yet when we arrived at the hotel. But after a quick brekkie of <i>menemen</i> (which we grew an obsession for) at a nearby cafe, we were checked in when we got back. <br />
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14329913860" title="sultan2 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="sultan2" height="350" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5511/14329913860_5fa673feec_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Tight space, yet the bathroom's massive.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
Like many other guesthouses and small hotels in Istanbul, Sultan's Inn has about four floors and a rooftop converted to a lounge area. Like the others, it doesn't have a lift. We were assigned a room on the fourth floor, and we were fortunate that the bell man was around to help us with the luggage.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Our double room has a colossal bed. Prolly too colossal that it ate all the floor space. The bathroom, massive. Air-conditioning is individually controlled and there's 24-hour hot shower. We were happy to have our own fridge though we didn't have much use for it. </div>
<br /></div>
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14606696672" title="sultan4 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="sultan4" height="348" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3872/14606696672_ddb1413919_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<center>
Brekkie spread.</center>
<center>
</center>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Breakfast is served on the same floor. The spread's got a pretty good selection during our stay and one could apple tea all-you-want (which meant a lot for the hubby). Guests may bring their food up the last set of stairs to the rooftop that offers a view of the Blue Mosque on one side and the Sea of Marmara on the other.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
In the afternoon, Sultan's Inn also provides free snacks. Usually pastries, plus coffee and tea. Also served in the brekkie hall.<br />
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14613560904" title="sultan5 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="sultan5" height="349" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5576/14613560904_2eeebbb90d_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<center>
View of Blue Mosque from Sultan's Inn's rooftop.</center>
</div>
<br />
Price of double room with brekkie at Sultan's Inn is <span id="rptHotelRoom_ctl01_lblSalesAmount">55,00 € (single </span><span id="rptHotelRoom_ctl01_lblSalesAmount">50,00 €, triple </span><span id="rptHotelRoom_ctl03_lblSalesAmount">70,00 €). It was way beyond our budget. But because of its proximity to Sultanahmet's (the old city of Istanbul) sights, plus its great reviews online, we booked with them anyway. The hotel has a good range of tour packages but we didn't try any.</span><br />
<br />
<span id="rptHotelRoom_ctl03_lblSalesAmount">We didn't really have to</span><span class="st">. The main attractions are just a few blocks away from it. Sultan's Inn, though very near the city buzz, sits on a quiet street which makes it an ideal temporary abode. The streets we had to walk on from the hotel to our various destinations weren't dodgy. Not a single time did we feel unsafe in the hotel's hood.</span><br />
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14429635197" title="sultan6 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="sultan6" height="339" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5037/14429635197_a97ddcf846_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Our fave nook on the rooftop.</div>
<br />
Except for our dripping aircon when turned off and the nonexistent elevator, we loved everything else about Sultan's Inn. If we get the chance to revisit Istanbul, will definitely consider staying here again. And when the time comes, I hope the Turkish embassy in the Philippines lets me stay in the country for more than two weeks.<br />
<br />
<br />
<u><b>Sultan's Inn Hotel</b></u><br />
<a class="headeradres" href="https://www.blogger.com/null">Mustafa Pasa Sokak No.40</a><br />
<a class="headeradres" href="https://www.blogger.com/null">Kucukayasofya Mahallesi</a> <br />
<a class="headeradres" href="https://www.blogger.com/null">Sultanahmet, Istanbul</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.facebook.com/sharer.php" name="fb_share" type="box_count">Share</a><script src="http://static.ak.fbcdn.net/connect.php/js/FB.Share" type="text/javascript"></script><script src="http://www.stumbleupon.com/hostedbadge.php?s=5"></script><a class="twitter-share-button" data-via="nomadwifey" href="https://twitter.com/share">Tweet</a>
<script>!function(d,s,id){var js,fjs=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];if(!d.getElementById(id)){js=d.createElement(s);js.id=id;js.src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js";fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js,fjs);}}(document,"script","twitter-wjs");</script>
<script>!function(d,s,id){var js,fjs=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];if(!d.getElementById(id)){js=d.createElement(s);js.id=id;js.src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js";fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js,fjs);}}(document,"script","twitter-wjs");</script><br />
<br />
<!-- Start FastWebCounter.com --><a href="http://www.fastwebcounter.com/" title="Free Web Counter">This page was viewed <script src="http://fastwebcounter.com/secure.php?s=http://www.pinaytraveljunkie.com/2014/07/istanbul-turkey-accommodations-sultans.html"></script> times.</a><br />
<!-- End FastWebCounter.com -->Pinay Travel Junkiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15807759614906657509noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6634544634679824071.post-62515278160645976262014-07-03T07:51:00.002+08:002014-07-03T08:11:52.083+08:00AsiaRooms Blogger Awards 2014Hear ye, fellow travel bloggers... It's back this year!<br />
<br />
AsiaRooms.com proudly presents their second Blogger Awards which recognizes our favorite travel bloggers, photographers and filmmakers who have inspired us to dream, explore and discover the world.<br />
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14559873934" title="asiarooms2 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="asiarooms2" height="375" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3858/14559873934_3283914d61_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<br />
<span style="color: #990000;"><b>How to join:</b></span><br />
<br />
Nominate yourself (Yes you could!) or your favorite travel blog for one of the
categories below. Most nominated blog will win. Quite simple, ei? Winners will be
judged by nominations per category.<br />
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14374990539" title="asiarooms3 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="asiarooms3" height="255" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3857/14374990539_cab7280ca1_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<br />
<span style="color: #990000;"><b>The prize: </b></span><br />
<br />
Winner per category will receive up to <b>SGD300</b> worth hotel stay which must take place between<b> 18 July 2014</b> to <b>18 July 2015</b>. Hotel must be selected via <a href="http://www.asiarooms.com/">www.asiarooms.com</a> website. The prize value (SGD300) must be used in one booking.<br />
<br />
<span style="color: #990000;"><b>Wait, there's more! </b></span><br />
<br />
For those who are nominated, you can get 10 extra votes by helping Asia Rooms spread the word about your participation through blogging. Remember to link back to this <a href="http://www.asiarooms.com/en/community/blogger-awards-nomination/#">page</a>.<br />
<br />
Want even more votes? Just share your post on Facebook and Twitter (10 and 5 additional votes respectively) and <a href="http://instagram.com/asiarooms">#ARbloggerawards</a>.<br />
<br />
<b>You can also win even if you're not a blogger!</b> Simply follow @asiarooms on Instagram, upload a travel photo and tag <a href="http://instagram.com/asiarooms">@asiarooms</a> and <a href="http://instagram.com/asiarooms">#ARbloggerawards</a>. Photo with the most number of <i>Likes</i> wins a hotel stay too!<br />
<br />
<br />
<i>Good luck everyone! </i><br />
<br />
<i> </i>
<br />
<a href="http://www.facebook.com/sharer.php" name="fb_share" type="box_count">Share</a><script src="http://static.ak.fbcdn.net/connect.php/js/FB.Share" type="text/javascript"></script><script src="http://www.stumbleupon.com/hostedbadge.php?s=5"></script><a class="twitter-share-button" data-via="nomadwifey" href="https://twitter.com/share">Tweet</a>
<script>!function(d,s,id){var js,fjs=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];if(!d.getElementById(id)){js=d.createElement(s);js.id=id;js.src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js";fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js,fjs);}}(document,"script","twitter-wjs");</script>
<script>!function(d,s,id){var js,fjs=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];if(!d.getElementById(id)){js=d.createElement(s);js.id=id;js.src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js";fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js,fjs);}}(document,"script","twitter-wjs");</script><br />
<br />
<!-- Start FastWebCounter.com --><a href="http://www.fastwebcounter.com/" title="Free Web Counter">This page was viewed <script src="http://fastwebcounter.com/secure.php?s=http://www.pinaytraveljunkie.com/2014/07/asiarooms-blogger-awards-2014.html"></script> times.</a><br />
<!-- End FastWebCounter.com -->Pinay Travel Junkiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15807759614906657509noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6634544634679824071.post-28988044021570480662014-06-29T16:55:00.000+08:002014-06-29T17:11:07.028+08:002014 Thus Far: The Second QuarterAs of late, my mornings revolve around counting stars.<br />
<br />
Stamped stars.<br />
<br />
It's a Philippine pre-school thing. A visible "Good job!" remark, stamped on students' wrists by the teachers after an activity in class. Every time I fetch her from school, I find myself comparing the number of her stars with that of others. If she's got less, I question her. I probe.<br />
<br />
Then in my head I go, <i>"What have I become?!"</i>. A student's mom, that's what. <br />
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14522620142" title="oz1 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="oz1" height="348" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2921/14522620142_f057bd3efc_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<center>
Tropical coastal town Cardwell, northeastern Queensland.</center>
<center>
</center>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Since owning a shack (which we snagged on a spur-of-the-moment decision because we're the type), we've sorta sunk back into the "real world". You know... Mortgage, monthly bills, car maintenance, cooking shows on cable telly, snoopy neighbors, grocery shopping as therapy, Zumba as family bonding, and as previously mentioned, stamped stars. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Our long honeymoon/babymoon/familymoon seemed over. Oh how hard I tried to channel my inner domestic diva <span class="st"></span>which I have come to believe is nonexistent. And the universe might have sent me a sign saying this is indeed a fact via an oven glass door explosion while I was baking a french toast casserole at home. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
The real world has a charm of its own. Has a fun of its own. It's quite depressing to realize that this world just isn't ours anymore. Because truth be told, there are days that I really feel like a foreigner to my own society. My opinions sound askew for them. And the rules I create appear out of hand.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Sometimes I fear of me not belonging. Of my daughter not belonging. The hubby has always been socially awkward so he doesn't give a dang.</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #990000;">2014's second quarter was rather sleepy for I took these fears into consideration in laying out our April, May, June plans. We spent more time growing roots than spreading wings. Here's what went down this second quarter:</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
First week of April saw us traversing Queensland and New South Wales, Australia aboard a hired (almost for free) station wagon.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Mini reunion with the hubby's Persian family in Australia. Luna did Easter egg hunting for the first time in Sydney. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Built new partnerships with New York-based lifestyle brand Yak Pak, casual footwear manufacturer Scott Hawaii and DTC Mobile.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Visited the sister in Singapore with an itinerary that's solely concentrated on food. Did a side trip to Legoland Malaysia. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Was invited to the Sarangani Bay Festival 2014, the biggest beach festival in Mindanao. Not only did we party for two nights, we also had the chance to do the white water tubing in New La Union, Maitum. I now know how it feels like to be in a washing machine.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Received the awesome news that my piece <span class="st"><i>Sulu Sojourn: Reconnaissance</i></span><i> </i>won as one of the finalists of Wego's <span class="st">"Life Changing Travel Story Contest". </span></div><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Staycation with me mum at The Linden Suites. A quickie "vacation" she longed for and deserved </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Joined Melo of <a href="http://outoftownblog.com/">OutOfTownBlog.com</a> and <a href="http://michaelanthonysagaran.weebly.com/">michaelanthonysagaran.weebly.com</a> on a Chevy Spark road test. The little beast brought us to La Union, Vigan, Paoay and Batac.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;"><br />
In June, we enrolled Luna in kindergarden (she managed to skip nursery after a quick assessment conducted by one of the teachers) primarily cause she said it herself, <i>"I want to go to school."</i>. We thought it would be great for her to learn discipline and to acknowledge the authority of others. Good to know she's able to keep up with the pace. Unfortunately, just a week and a half into her schooling, she's already bored of it. Lucky for her, she's only doing this for a month. Why? </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br />
<span style="color: #990000;">Because this is what we are up to...</span></div>
<br />
The hubby's got a business conference in the United States and Luna and I are going with him. It's just a two week trip, but we're joining anyway so that we could do a little exploration within the region. As for Luna's studies, well, she's gonna be <i>roadschooling</i> (just a term I use which basically means homeschooling without a 'home') for the next two to three months. It ain't so much of an issue for us because in Australia, where we intend to reside 2015 onwards, school officially starts in the sixth year of the child's age.
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
We got plenty of time to diddle daddle.<br />
<br />
And we can't wait to tell you more stories of diddle-daddling.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<a href="http://www.facebook.com/sharer.php" name="fb_share" type="box_count">Share</a><script src="http://static.ak.fbcdn.net/connect.php/js/FB.Share" type="text/javascript"></script><script src="http://www.stumbleupon.com/hostedbadge.php?s=5"></script><a class="twitter-share-button" data-via="nomadwifey" href="https://twitter.com/share">Tweet</a>
<script>!function(d,s,id){var js,fjs=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];if(!d.getElementById(id)){js=d.createElement(s);js.id=id;js.src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js";fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js,fjs);}}(document,"script","twitter-wjs");</script>
<script>!function(d,s,id){var js,fjs=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];if(!d.getElementById(id)){js=d.createElement(s);js.id=id;js.src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js";fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js,fjs);}}(document,"script","twitter-wjs");</script><br />
<br />
<!-- Start FastWebCounter.com --><a href="http://www.fastwebcounter.com/" title="Free Web Counter">This page was viewed <script src="http://fastwebcounter.com/secure.php?s=http://www.pinaytraveljunkie.com/2014/06/2014-thus-far-second-quarter.html"></script> times.</a><br />
<!-- End FastWebCounter.com -->
Pinay Travel Junkiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15807759614906657509noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6634544634679824071.post-31675655081599518732014-06-22T19:32:00.000+08:002014-06-22T20:25:01.108+08:00Photo Essay: Bhaktapur Durbar Square, NepalGray clouds swiftly drifted athwart the celestial blue sky. As we strolled our way from Planet Bhaktapur Hotel to Durbar Square, I silently prayed to the universe not to let them hang around. Why we were traveling Nepal during the monsoon season, well, it was the most practical home-bound route stopover (from Caucasus to Southeast Asia) we found at the time. <br />
<br />
It was our first of only a few mornings in Nepal. We had to hit the ground running.<br />
<br />
The entrance that we used to access the square does not encounter a lot of tourists. Its ticket booth wasn't even manned when we arrived. We waited for about a quarter of an hour until someone came to collect our payment and issue a ticket (Bhaktapur Durbar Square admission fee $15). <br />
<br />
A screenshot of a map, saved in our point-and-shoot, guided us through deserted back alleys. The scenery was a stark contrast from the highly urbanized setting of Yerevan, Armenia where we flew from the day prior. It's a backdrop that an overwhelm. That can overjoy.<br />
<br />
We traipsed by ourselves for a while, up till a local offered to show us around for a reasonable rate. Hubby and I let go of skepticism and entrusted the wheel to a stranger. It was to be a day of exploration of the old Bhaktapur Kingdom <span class="st">— or whatever's left of it after the 1934 quake. It was to be a day of chasing our two year-old in and around a living museum.</span><br />
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14468604162" title="bhaktapur7 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="bhaktapur7" height="349" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3924/14468604162_a74e39ceb1_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<center>
The Nyatapola Temple, one of the tallest in Kathmandu Valley. Constructed in 1702, during the reign of King Bhupatindra Malla.</center>
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14283763818" title="bhaktapur6 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="bhaktapur6" height="350" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3913/14283763818_c8cfb2b789_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Like stepping out of the TARDIS and into the past.</div>
<center>
</center>
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14447869246" title="bhaktapur9 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="bhaktapur9" height="348" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2897/14447869246_e654e5ac52_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="contenttext">Fasi Dega Temple. Guarded by elephants, lions and bulls. Luna was upset we didn't let her sit on the elephant.</span></div>
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14468911201" title="bhaktapur10 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="bhaktapur10" height="349" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5595/14468911201_5b45e0c615_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Perched on the top plinth of <span class="contenttext">Fasi Dega Temple.</span></div>
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14285732749" title="bhaktapur11 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="bhaktapur11" height="349" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5114/14285732749_ec6a3d1a42_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Fave activity in Bhaktapur Durbar Square: People watching. </div>
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14285795249" title="bhaktapur12 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="bhaktapur12" height="349" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2895/14285795249_78b30bb4a6_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<div style="text-align: center;">
55 Window Palace. The guide led us through the Golden Gate and all the way to the royal pool. Some areas are off-limits. No admission fee.</div>
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14493214583" title="bhaktapur13 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="bhaktapur13" height="349" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2911/14493214583_6792fec498_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The royal pool/bath inside the palace.</div>
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14286705549" title="bhaktapur14 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="bhaktapur14" height="349" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5157/14286705549_74335a463f_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And there are times when you could feel the power of aged walls.</div>
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14286879748" title="bhaktapur15 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="bhaktapur15" height="349" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2923/14286879748_2ffa34b73c_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<div style="text-align: center;">
View of <span class="st">Taumadhi Square </span>from Nyatapola Temple.</div>
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14290048940" title="bhaktapur16 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="bhaktapur16" height="349" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3907/14290048940_9a5a99a393_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Near empty Durbar Square at noon. Just what we needed.</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<center>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br />
<a href="http://www.facebook.com/sharer.php" name="fb_share" type="box_count">Share</a><script src="http://static.ak.fbcdn.net/connect.php/js/FB.Share" type="text/javascript"></script><script src="http://www.stumbleupon.com/hostedbadge.php?s=5"></script><a class="twitter-share-button" data-via="nomadwifey" href="https://twitter.com/share">Tweet</a>
<script>!function(d,s,id){var js,fjs=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];if(!d.getElementById(id)){js=d.createElement(s);js.id=id;js.src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js";fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js,fjs);}}(document,"script","twitter-wjs");</script>
<script>!function(d,s,id){var js,fjs=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];if(!d.getElementById(id)){js=d.createElement(s);js.id=id;js.src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js";fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js,fjs);}}(document,"script","twitter-wjs");</script><br />
<br />
<!-- Start FastWebCounter.com --><a href="http://www.fastwebcounter.com/" title="Free Web Counter">This page was viewed <script src="http://fastwebcounter.com/secure.php?s=www.pinaytraveljunkie.com/2014/06/photo-essay-bhaktapur-durbar-square.html"></script> times.</a><br />
<!-- End FastWebCounter.com -->
</div>
</center>
</div>
Pinay Travel Junkiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15807759614906657509noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6634544634679824071.post-74158824099529341282014-06-17T09:26:00.001+08:002014-06-17T09:28:48.660+08:00The Amazing Race Philippines Season 2 Auditions<b><span class="st">This could be your adventure of a lifetime!</span></b><br />
<br />
<span class="st"><b>TV5</b> and </span><span class="st">internationally renowned independent production company</span><span class="st"> <b>activeTV Asia</b> will launch the second season of The Amazing Race Philippines <b>(</b></span>a reality game show based on the American series <i>The Amazing Race</i>) this 2014. Derek Ramsay returns as its host.<br />
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14460544453" title="tarp by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="tarp" height="289" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2908/14460544453_7f054bdf7c_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<b><span class="st"><br /></span></b>
<span class="st">And the search is on for couples or pairs (with pre-existing relationships) who meet the following requirements:</span><br />
<br />
<span class="st">- Filipino citizens</span><br />
<span class="st">- Aged 21 years old and above</span><br />
<span class="st">- Physically and mentally fit</span><br />
<span class="st">- With valid passorts</span><br />
<span class="st">- Bursting with personality(!)</span><br />
<span class="st">- At least one member must have a driver's license who can drive automatic transmission <b>and</b> manual transmission</span><br />
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
The Amazing Race Philippines Team will be holding <i>on-ground auditions</i> on these dates:<br />
<br />
June 20- Matina Town Square, Davao<br />
June 22- Marqee Mall, Pampanga<br />
June 28- Eastwood City Libis, Quezon City</blockquote>
<br />
Visit the show's website for more details:<a href="http://www.theamazingrace.ph/"> www.theamazingrace.ph/</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="copy-paste-block" style="text-align: center;">
<i><span class="bqQuoteLink">"It
is like a voyage of discovery into unknown lands, seeking not for new
territory but for new knowledge. It should appeal to those with a good
sense of adventure."</span></i><br />
~ Frederick Sanger</div>
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.facebook.com/sharer.php" name="fb_share" type="box_count">Share</a><script src="http://static.ak.fbcdn.net/connect.php/js/FB.Share" type="text/javascript"></script><script src="http://www.stumbleupon.com/hostedbadge.php?s=5"></script><a class="twitter-share-button" data-via="nomadwifey" href="https://twitter.com/share">Tweet</a>
<script>!function(d,s,id){var js,fjs=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];if(!d.getElementById(id)){js=d.createElement(s);js.id=id;js.src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js";fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js,fjs);}}(document,"script","twitter-wjs");</script>
<script>!function(d,s,id){var js,fjs=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];if(!d.getElementById(id)){js=d.createElement(s);js.id=id;js.src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js";fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js,fjs);}}(document,"script","twitter-wjs");</script><br />
<br />
<!-- Start FastWebCounter.com --><a href="http://www.fastwebcounter.com/" title="Free Web Counter">This page was viewed <script src="http://fastwebcounter.com/secure.php?s=http://www.pinaytraveljunkie.com/2014/06/the-amazing-race-philippines-season-2.html"></script> times.</a><br />
<!-- End FastWebCounter.com -->
Pinay Travel Junkiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15807759614906657509noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6634544634679824071.post-16100804243855765382014-06-15T01:26:00.000+08:002014-06-17T09:15:10.226+08:00Driving (And Eating) North With Chevrolet Spark And Yak Pak Philippines<i>"Is it a sport utility vehicle?"</i> I inquired over the phone. <i>"And where are we going?"</i><br />
<br />
Melo of <a href="http://outoftownblog.com/">OutOfTownBlog.com</a>, on the other end of the line, replied <i>"No. It's a small car. Ilocos Norte." </i><br />
<br />
<i>"Oh."</i>, was my only reaction. And it wasn't the <i>'oh-okay'</i> kind of <i>Oh</i>. It was the <i>'oh-are-you-out-of-your-mind?!'</i> kind.<br />
<br />
North seemed like a good idea. But hey, not when you're driving or riding a subcompact hatchback that's relatively new in the market. The long northward road, well-trodden by all sorts of vehicles, has several parts that are under construction. For the Chevrolet Spark, passing such unpaved thoroughfares is like off-roading. <br />
<br />
So, Ilocos Norte? Really?<br />
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14398599881" title="paoay by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="paoay" height="344" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5237/14398599881_3ccd7eca4b_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<center>
The Spark made it to Paoay! Photo by roadtrip buddy Michael Sagaran.</center>
<center>
</center>
<center>
<a href="http://michaelanthonysagaran.weebly.com/"></a></center>
Few days after that phone conversation, I found myself ensconced in the backseat of a lemon yellow Chevy Spark. Beside me, the hubby. Beside him, my mom. On my lap, our snoozing three-year-old. Surprisingly, we all comfortably fit. Quite snug, yes, but a cozy snug.<br />
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14215699059" title="ilocos1 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="ilocos1" height="350" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5551/14215699059_5b7d00cb58_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<center>
Stopover in Villasis, Pangasinan for just-off-the-grill tupig.</center>
<center>
</center>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Michael of <a href="http://michaelanthonysagaran.weebly.com/">MichaelAnthonySagaran.weebly.com</a> was behind the wheel and Melo was in the front seat. The two picked us up from The Linden Suites where we stayed for a night, and offered to drop off my family in Tarlac. By that time, our destination was still uncertain.<br />
<br />
What we were sure of, the highlands couldn't be an option for the rainy season has made its ingress in Philippine territory. </div>
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14403227405" title="ilocos1 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="ilocos1" height="349" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3925/14403227405_f2f3bc50a8_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<center>
One of my travel companions for this trip, the Yak Pak Voyager Lunch Bag which kept our <i>tupig</i> warm. </center>
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
After delivering my family to our
home, us bloggers pushed on northwest-bound. As miles were covered,
destinations slowly surfaced between random conversations. Destinations
in the form of food: <i>Tupig</i>, <i>dinakdakan</i>, <i>bagnet</i>,<i> Vigan longganisa</i>, <i>pinakbet</i>, and <i>Batac empanada. </i></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i> </i>And we wondered, <b>"How will the Spark fare?"</b>.</div>
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14446206323" title="ilocos4 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="ilocos4" height="349" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5491/14446206323_c69e3d1a74_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<center>
</center>
<center>
</center>
<center>
Eye-catching prints. Bold colors. That's New York-based lifestyle brand Yak Pak for you.</center>
<center>
</center>
<center>
</center>
<center>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Michael was quick to notice its solid handling, a nifty trait when you
weave through city traffic. And as expected from a small car, the Chevy
Spark is fuel efficient. Also, its brakes performed well, but let's not ask
how Michael and Melo were able to test this.</div>
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14401278891" title="ilocos2 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="ilocos2" height="349" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2911/14401278891_853c6e9851_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<center>
Early morn sunbath at Urbiztondo beach, San Juan, La Union. My Yak Pak bag beside me kept my bottle of water cold.</center>
<center>
</center>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
The Chevy Spark's got a LED-lit
dashboard installed on the steering column that's easy to read. Other features: Remote
keyless entry, power locks, power mirrors. Quite a number of cubby
holes. It's a four-door cabin (five, including the boot) which makes it
easy for passengers to climb in.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Snub-nosed. Cute. </div>
</div>
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14218911917" title="ilocos3 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="ilocos3" height="350" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3924/14218911917_901d0eab0c_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Venturing further north.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
But it proved to be beast!<br />
<br />
First day of our road trip/test, our end point was San Juan, La Union wherein we did <i>bopis</i>, <i>sisig</i>, grilled <i>liempo</i> and <i>laing</i> for dinner at Urbiztondo Grill House and retired in Sebay Surf Central. On the second day, after my sunbath and Michael's quickie dip at <span class="st">Urbiztondo Beach</span>, we resumed our journey. </div>
</div>
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14236890378" title="ilocos1 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="ilocos1" height="344" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3876/14236890378_baa628ec49_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<center>
Vigan Heritage Mansion. Photo by Michael.</center>
<center>
</center>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Michael breezed through La Union and Ilocos Sur municipalities until we arrived in UNESCO World Heritage Site Vigan, a city I visited (a trip I chose over my graduation march) more than a decade ago. We had late lunch at Kusina Felecitas in Granda's Inn and crossed three items off our itinerary: <i>Bagnet</i>, <i>pinakbet</i> and <i>dinakdakan</i>. When we finished, we proceeded to the street which Vigan is famous for, Calle Crisologo.<br />
<br />
Eager to venture further, we only did a quick stroll then jumped back in the car. We soon drove out of the city after passing by a <i>Vigan longganisa</i> and <i>bagnet </i>store where Michael bought <i>pasalubongs</i>.</div>
<center>
</center>
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14237265378" title="ilocos2 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="ilocos2" height="349" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3894/14237265378_4c884e2950_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<center>
Late lunch at Kusina Felecitas, Grandpa's Inn (Donato Ancestral Home). Clockwise from top left: <i>Bagnet</i>, <i>pinakbet</i> with <i>bagnet</i>, carrot cake, <i>warek-warek</i> or <i>dinakdakan</i>. </center>
<center>
</center>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Truth be told, I had doubts about reaching Paoay Church <span class="st">— a destination we all agreed on just around noon </span><span class="st">— </span>that same day. Not so much because I had little faith in our teensy ride, but because I knew we were pressed with time for we were also to head back home in the evening.</div>
<center>
</center>
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14446548683" title="ilocos5 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="ilocos5" height="399" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3915/14446548683_2391abfb15_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
UNESCO World Heritage Site Paoay Church. We did heed its stentorian call.</center>
<center>
</center>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Thanks to Michael's skillful driving and Chevy Sparks' capability, not only did we reach the <span class="st">Church of Saint Augustine in Paoay way before sundown, we even had time to visit nearby Batac after. We came for <i>empanada, </i>and <i>empanada </i>we had for early dinner at Lanie's Batac Special Empanada. </span></div>
<center>
</center>
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14425467364" title="ilocos3 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="ilocos3" height="349" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3900/14425467364_737abd09fd_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<center>
Batac's pride, the <i>empanada</i>.</center>
<center>
</center>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Our drive back to Manila <b>with only one stop</b> was taxing. But the man behind the wheel and our little yellow beast did not falter. Indeed, big things come from small packages. And the Chevy Spark is a testimonial to that.<br />
<br /></div>
<a href="http://www.facebook.com/sharer.php" name="fb_share" type="box_count">Share</a><script src="http://static.ak.fbcdn.net/connect.php/js/FB.Share" type="text/javascript"></script><script src="http://www.stumbleupon.com/hostedbadge.php?s=5"></script><a class="twitter-share-button" data-via="nomadwifey" href="https://twitter.com/share">Tweet</a>
<script>!function(d,s,id){var js,fjs=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];if(!d.getElementById(id)){js=d.createElement(s);js.id=id;js.src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js";fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js,fjs);}}(document,"script","twitter-wjs");</script>
<script>!function(d,s,id){var js,fjs=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];if(!d.getElementById(id)){js=d.createElement(s);js.id=id;js.src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js";fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js,fjs);}}(document,"script","twitter-wjs");</script><br />
<br />
<!-- Start FastWebCounter.com --><a href="http://www.fastwebcounter.com/" title="Free Web Counter">This page was viewed <script src="http://fastwebcounter.com/secure.php?s=http://www.pinaytraveljunkie.com/2014/06/driving-and-eating-north-with-chevrolet.html"></script> times.</a><br />
<!-- End FastWebCounter.com -->Pinay Travel Junkiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15807759614906657509noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6634544634679824071.post-2282502585054386792014-06-04T14:18:00.001+08:002014-06-05T15:18:28.627+08:00Kentron District, Yerevan, Armenia: Our Home In The Pink CapitalHubby and I dumped our luggage in one corner of Tashir Pizza. We perused the menu handed by a charming waitress (who could shake your weariness off with one smile) and ordered something familiar and easy and essential: Spaghetti bolognese and salad and the WiFi password. <i>An Armenian gastro adventure can wait</i>, I thought. Besides, we were in a fast food joint. Not a lot of choices there. And we were starving after a Georgia-Armenia border cross that morn. <br />
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14301870705" title="yerevan1 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="yerevan1" height="349" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3771/14301870705_c5b738f4cf_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<center>
A park bench near Swan Lake.</center>
<center>
</center>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I fished my netbook out of my backpack and logged online <span class="st">— thankfully, the internet was working well </span><span class="st">— </span>while the hubby headed out to look for an ATM. Earlier, we borrowed the phone of our cabbie who drove us from the bus terminal to the pizza place and called our AirBnb host. She didn't pick up.<br />
<br />
So I quickly sent her an email.<br />
<br />
"<span class="null">Hi, did you try to call me from Armenian number?" our host named Armine (yes, seriously, Armine from Armenia) wrote.</span><br />
<span class="null"><br /></span>
<span class="null">Apparently, she's the kind who won't answer calls from unknown numbers. </span></div>
<center>
</center>
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14115648997" title="yerevan5 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="yerevan5" height="366" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3667/14115648997_eb137c451e_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<center>
AirBnB-listed apartment, cheaper than a double room in any hostel.</center>
<br />
<span class="null">About half an hour later, she arrived at Tashir Pizza, just a few minutes after the hubby (who happily reported that he was able to withdraw some dram) got back. Armine, similar to our waitress, has a disarming smile. And she's got a crown of gorgeous long brown curls. Her aura, calm and collected</span><span class="null"><span class="null">, a lot like yoga which she teaches</span> for a living. Introductions were brief. Armine hurriedly confessed that she was to use the rent money we're paying for an out of town trip. She had to leave as soon as possible. </span><br />
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14302460924" title="yerevan2 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="yerevan2" height="349" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2908/14302460924_67d2d41d80_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<center>
Some of the new buildings along North Avenue stuck to the pink theme.</center>
<center>
</center>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="null">Because we couldn't carry all our bags in one go, she and the hubby went ahead with some of the stuff. The hubby returned alone, key already in hand. The spacious one-bedroom apartment was all ours. Its building sits along one of the quiet residential alleys just across Teryan Street. We walked for less than five minutes to get there. The location of it in Kentron District is tops (and cheap for its league), reason why we picked this accommodation from the AirBnB list. </span><br />
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14159241049" title="yerevan4 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="yerevan4" height="347" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3898/14159241049_2af60a7ea6_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Installation art meets vertical garden. Beyond the guitar is the Swan Lake (a man-made lake with, you know, swans)</div>
<br />
<span class="null">Kentron is Yerevan's city center. It's compact, pedestrian friendly and easily navigable, thanks to</span> neoclassical architect Alexander Tamanyan's layout design. Watering holes, restaurants, shops of famous international brands, and government offices are huddled here. Housed in buildings of various architectural types, from cold Soviet panel buildings to anything Europe-inspired. In my opinion, not as gorgeous as Tbilisi, but it does possess its own allure.<br />
<br />
Speaking of allure, I've never seen that much beautiful women in one city!<br />
<br /></div>
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14345159254" title="yerevan5 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="yerevan5" height="349" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5593/14345159254_1fd3a48a29_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<center>
The History Museum Of Armenia</center>
<center>
</center>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Yerevan is called "The Pink Capital" because of the pink tuff that was used to build certain structures during Architect Tamanyan's time. Such are the government buildings surrounding the Republic Square. The city as a whole is not really that pink-y anymore though, since newer constructions didn't stick to the theme.</div>
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14162757820" title="yerevan6 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="yerevan6" height="339" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3908/14162757820_db918cd595_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<center>
Last thing I'd expect to see in an ex-Soviet state. A long queue of Barbie cabs.</center>
<center>
</center>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Our time in Armenia was much too short, and unfortunately, was not wisely spent. We got Armine's cozy apartment, <span class="st">particularly its </span>huge couch and fast speed internet,<span class="st"> </span>to blame for this. And perhaps our jadedness from the Turkey-Georgia trip.<br />
<br />
Within the capital we only managed to visit the Republic Square, the Swan Lake and the History Museum of Armenia (I recommend booking a tour guide in advance, it's free). The everything in between included binging on gyro and the well-loved Armenian barbecue, chasing Luna in parks, downloading movies (to watch in Nepal, our next destination), and working online. </div>
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14349143504" title="yerevan7 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="yerevan7" height="349" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3864/14349143504_b112cb9d96_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Armenia's Zvartnots International Airport, prettiest airport I've seen so far. A play of the Armenian Tricolour or Yeraguyn (colors of their national flag). </div>
<br />
Yerevan's one of those cities we don't mind visiting again cause we barely scratched its surface. Hopefully the opportunity falls on our laps, so we can someday comprehend why Armenia's drinking fountains are very popular to its people.<br />
<br />
You'll get what I mean when you travel here too.<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.facebook.com/sharer.php" name="fb_share" type="box_count">Share</a><script src="http://static.ak.fbcdn.net/connect.php/js/FB.Share" type="text/javascript"></script><script src="http://www.stumbleupon.com/hostedbadge.php?s=5"></script><a class="twitter-share-button" data-via="nomadwifey" href="https://twitter.com/share">Tweet</a>
<script>!function(d,s,id){var js,fjs=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];if(!d.getElementById(id)){js=d.createElement(s);js.id=id;js.src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js";fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js,fjs);}}(document,"script","twitter-wjs");</script>
<script>!function(d,s,id){var js,fjs=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];if(!d.getElementById(id)){js=d.createElement(s);js.id=id;js.src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js";fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js,fjs);}}(document,"script","twitter-wjs");</script><br />
<br />
<!-- Start FastWebCounter.com --><a href="http://www.fastwebcounter.com/" title="Free Web Counter">This page was viewed <script src="http://fastwebcounter.com/secure.php?s=http://www.pinaytraveljunkie.com/2014/06/kentron-district-yerevan-armenia-our.html"></script> times.</a><br />
<!-- End FastWebCounter.com -->Pinay Travel Junkiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15807759614906657509noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6634544634679824071.post-21350671357747141652014-05-27T11:20:00.000+08:002014-05-28T07:38:51.457+08:00Lemuhen Cultural Dance Troupe Inc. And The Dance Born From A DreamThey wore the shyest of smiles. Their welcome, so warm and affable that it felt like coming home to long lost relatives. But they're total strangers to us. The residents of <i>Baranggay</i> Badtasan in Kiamba, Sarangani Province had been waiting all early morning for our entourage <span class="st">— </span>composed of SOCCSKSARGEN and Luzon-based bloggers.<br />
<br />
The air was dense with jovial anticipation.<br />
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14241745206" title="lemuhen1 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="lemuhen1" height="346" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3750/14241745206_fcff2ed552_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The Lemuhen Cultural Dance Troupe Inc. about to perform T'boli dances. The T'boli are one of the <span class="st">indigenous peoples of South Cotabato.</span></div>
<br />
Under a hut modeled afer a traditional T'boli <span class="st"></span>house, a long table was <span class="st">prettily ornamented with bright red, plaid tablecloth. The sleepless and famished (and hungover) I was drawn towards the elements on the table: Boiled plantain, boiled sweet potato and <i>kamoteng ube</i> (purple yam), </span><span class="st"><i><span class="st"><i>sumang </i>(rice cake cooked in palm or banana leaves) </span>kamoteng kahoy</i> (cassava), steamed rice wrapped in leaves, and <i>nelut onuk</i> which is native chicken stewed in a bamboo stalk over a fire pit for two hours. <i>Pancit bihon guisado</i> (Filipino noodle dish) was the odd one out only cause it's the most familiar to the Manila-raised traveler, me.</span><br />
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14285285203" title="lemuhen2 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="lemuhen2" height="349" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5073/14285285203_faf4578481_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<center>
Top: Nelut Onuk, native chicken stewed in bamboo for two hours. Bottom Left: Bamboo where the chicken was cooked. Bottom right: Rice wrapped in leaves. </center>
<center>
</center>
<div style="text-align: left;">
A short prayer led by Lyn Lambago, founder of Lemuhen Cultural Dance Troupe Inc., commenced the simple feast. Lyn also gave us a brief introduction to traditional T'boli food before we all dug in. The T'boli fare is simple yet tasty, and made with ingredients that can be harvested off their land.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I had a bite of almost everything. The native chicken, no doubt, was the celebrity of the spread. The crowd favorite. We loved it so much that some of us fenced using our forks for the last few pieces.</div>
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14255627186" title="lemuhen3 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="lemuhen3" height="648" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2896/14255627186_63e48c430b_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<center>
A bashful performance. Reflects how gentle the T'boli people are.</center>
<center>
</center>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Breakfast wasn't the main event though. It was simply a prelude to a T'boli dance performed by the Lemuhen Cultural Dance Troupe. The dancers, all young <span class="st">— no more than mid-teen, were taught by the founder Lyn herself. She who established the dance troupe whose main objective is to preserve traditional dance. A side quest of Lyn's is to help the youngsters with their education. In fact, sponsors are welcome to donate cash to fund their school supplies.</span></div>
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14092381257" title="lemuhen5 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="lemuhen5" height="417" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3812/14092381257_20bb931aff_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<center>
Timid. Cute. </center>
<center>
</center>
<div style="text-align: left;">
We were shown snippets of various T'boli dances by the young ones such as: M<span class="_5yl5" data-reactid=".8w.$mid=11401199584392=25da32edcee10d85088.2:0.0.0.0.0"><span class="null">adal semgewet (courtship dance), </span></span><span class="_5yl5" data-reactid=".8w.$mid=11401199584392=25da32edcee10d85088.2:0.0.0.0.0"><span class="null">madal soyow (warrior dance) and </span></span><span class="_5yl5" data-reactid=".8w.$mid=11401199584392=25da32edcee10d85088.2:0.0.0.0.0"><span class="null"><span class="_5yl5" data-reactid=".8w.$mid=11401199584392=25da32edcee10d85088.2:0.0.0.0.0"><span class="null">madal betaku (witch dance).</span></span> </span></span>The real treat was the dance that Lyn learned from a dream which she performed herself. She calls it madal tahu. A years-in-the-making choreography that requires one to dance mostly on tiptoes. Lyn, who's on the heavy side, pointed out how difficult it is for her to perform it these days. But according to her, because of spiritual guidance, she manages to do it. </div>
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14255792206" title="lemuhen6 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="lemuhen6" height="349" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2910/14255792206_49786c8af7_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The kids of Baranggay Badtasan cheekily peek from downstairs of the T'boli house.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
After the performances, we were ushered upstairs the T'Boli house. Its interior walls are adorned with traditional T'boli clothes. In one corner, hung a blown-up photo of the troupe printed on a tarpaulin. Lyn beamed with pride as she related the story of how this project came into realization. And she thanked Sarangani Governor Steve Solon's better half Michelle Lopez-Solon for her tireless assistance. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
It was actually Ma'm Michelle who invited us bloggers to come over and experience the adventures that Sarangani offers.</div>
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14276151101" title="lemuhen8 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="lemuhen8" height="349" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5505/14276151101_94d1b1e78a_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<center>
Lemuhen Cultural Dance Troupe Inc. with SOCCSKSARGEN and Luzon-based bloggers and Ma'm Michelle Lopez-Solon.</center>
<center>
</center>
<div style="text-align: left;">
And Baranggay Badtasan was a great place to start. The morning event was a preamble to the Sarangani familiarization trip that tapped all five senses. We couldn't wait to see, hear, smell, taste, and touch more (especially the, uhm, touch part <span class="st">— wait for the future posts!).</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="st"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="st"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="st"><i>Visiting Sarangani? <b>Go Sarangani Travel</b></i></span> <i>can help you organize your trip. Visit their web page <a href="https://www.facebook.com/gosaranganitravel">https://www.facebook.com/gosaranganitravel</a> and send them your inquiry.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i><br /></i></div>
<br />
<a href="http://www.facebook.com/sharer.php" name="fb_share" type="box_count">Share</a><script src="http://static.ak.fbcdn.net/connect.php/js/FB.Share" type="text/javascript"></script><script src="http://www.stumbleupon.com/hostedbadge.php?s=5"></script><a class="twitter-share-button" data-via="nomadwifey" href="https://twitter.com/share">Tweet</a>
<script>!function(d,s,id){var js,fjs=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];if(!d.getElementById(id)){js=d.createElement(s);js.id=id;js.src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js";fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js,fjs);}}(document,"script","twitter-wjs");</script>
<script>!function(d,s,id){var js,fjs=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];if(!d.getElementById(id)){js=d.createElement(s);js.id=id;js.src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js";fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js,fjs);}}(document,"script","twitter-wjs");</script><br />
<br />
<!-- Start FastWebCounter.com --><a href="http://www.fastwebcounter.com/" title="Free Web Counter">This page was viewed <script src="http://fastwebcounter.com/secure.php?s=http://www.pinaytraveljunkie.com/2014/05/lemuhen-cultural-dance-troupe-inc-and.html"></script> times.</a><br />
<!-- End FastWebCounter.com -->
Pinay Travel Junkiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15807759614906657509noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6634544634679824071.post-22869248824768955872014-05-12T17:52:00.000+08:002014-05-14T09:05:44.466+08:00Meknes, Morocco: Riad Hiba The cab sped off and left us a bit disoriented.<br />
<br />
At least the driver pointed towards a small alley before he hopped back in his vehicle. That was a start. If you've been in Morocco long enough, you'd know that entering an innocent looking alley means possibly getting in some nasty maze. And navigation could take ages, especially if you got heaps of luggage in tow. Like us.<br />
<i> </i>
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14148637664" title="meknes1 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="meknes1" height="335" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7390/14148637664_c341e4493f_o.jpg" width="525" /></a>
</center>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Bab Mansour, gateway to Moulay Ismail's imperial city. A quick stroll from our guesthouse.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
Minutes prior, we just arrived in Meknes via train from the country's capital Rabat. We didn't have a difficult time grabbing a <i>petit</i> cab for the station's replete with them. The driver we got <span class="st">—</span> after glancing at the address of our guesthouse <span class="st">—</span> seemed confident where he was going. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
He delivered us to the correct jump off, alright, but left us with no clue where to go next.</div>
</div>
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/13963282178" title="meknes5 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="meknes5" height="349" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7359/13963282178_be4633cb96_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Riad Hiba's nondescript door.</div>
<center>
</center>
<br />
There was a lack of directional signs (found out later on that there are actually plenty of them along the alley coming from Place Hedim and not where we came from), but a few questions here and there answered by shopkeepers and bystanders brought us to the riad. Its mark, though small, can be easily spotted by passersby. Hubby gently tapped the door knocker.<br />
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14146493272" title="meknes3 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="meknes3" height="349" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7440/14146493272_5da9e166ce_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Stunning ceiling. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Seconds after, a <i>clink</i>, then the heavy wooden door opened. A male receptionist greeted us with a shy smile and wordlessly helped us carry our stuff into the 17th century structure. The hallway led to a foyer that's sheltered by a stunning stained-glass ceiling. I must have gaped up almost the entire time we were checking in.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14145821801" title="meknes4 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="meknes4" height="338" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5191/14145821801_1e25e8f19e_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Ornate window frames abound.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
We were assigned to a room (I believe the riad only has seven) across the reception desk. For a reasonable $45 we got two double beds, a flat screen telly, small heater (which barely warmed up the room), free WiFi access and en suite bath. There's obsessive attention to details. Carved furniture, gorgeous lamps, <span class="st">intricately weaved carpets. It was screaming <i><b>honeymoon</b></i>. The bathroom's quite basic though, at least the hot shower worked.</span></div>
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/13963375498" title="meknes6 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="meknes6" height="349" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2898/13963375498_be98f4a17e_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Traditional and charming.</div>
<br />
<span class="st">One
negative thing I think worth mentioning about the room is its very dim lighting. Yes, even
with all those lamps in various shapes and sizes. We felt that our room
was so poorly lit that emerging out of the riad was like breaking free from a
dark dungeon each time. </span><br />
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14126906066" title="meknes7 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="meknes7" height="349" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2934/14126906066_ac5e151aaf_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Riad Hiba's rooftop where breakfast is served.</div>
<br />
A modest breakfast (baskets of bread with cheese and honey plus tea/coffee) is included in the rates, and is served on the rooftop which offers an amazing view of the city. The riad is right in the heart of Meknes' old <i>medina</i>, and one can be caught up watching everyday life from the rooftop's vantage point. Found myself in such situation a couple of times, and it was always a pain to leave my fave nook up there.<br />
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/13963488358" title="meknes2 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="meknes2" height="349" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7447/13963488358_cc22741e63_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<center>
View from a resto's terrace, where we had an early dinner on our last day in Meknes.</center>
<center>
</center>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Hubby and I adored the riad so much, we stayed longer than intended. Also, we fell in love with the medina's vibe. Though bustling at certain times of the day, it's relatively laid back and less touristy compared to Casablanca and Rabat. It may have less attractions, but <span class="st">prepossessing nonetheless.<br /><br />
Our visit helped us recuperate from travel fatigue, and we had Riad Hiba to thank for.</span></div>
<center>
</center>
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/13980350489" title="meknes8 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="meknes8" height="345" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7391/13980350489_6e5597847b_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<center>
Vegetable Tajine capped off Meknes leg.</center>
<center>
</center>
<center>
</center>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<u><b>Riad Hiba</b></u></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
20 Rue Lalla Aicha Adouya</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Meknès, Maroc (Morocco)</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Mobile No : +212 (0) 675 94 33 23</div>
<br />
<br />
Round-The-World 2011-2012, Morocco Leg: <br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.pinaytraveljunkie.com/2013/03/chellah-necropolis-sala-colonia-rabat.html">Chellah Necropolis (Sala Colonia), Rabat, Morocco</a><br />
<a href="http://www.pinaytraveljunkie.com/2012/09/photo-essay-kasbah-des-oudaias-and-le.html">Photo Essay: Kasbah Des Oudaias And Le Tour Hassan, Rabat. Mexico</a><br />
<a href="http://www.pinaytraveljunkie.com/2012/05/hassan-ii-mosque-casablanca-morocco.html">Hassan II Mosque, Casablanca, Morocco: A Persian's Birthday</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.facebook.com/sharer.php" name="fb_share" type="box_count">Share</a><script src="http://static.ak.fbcdn.net/connect.php/js/FB.Share" type="text/javascript"></script><script src="http://www.stumbleupon.com/hostedbadge.php?s=5"></script><a class="twitter-share-button" data-via="nomadwifey" href="https://twitter.com/share">Tweet</a>
<script>!function(d,s,id){var js,fjs=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];if(!d.getElementById(id)){js=d.createElement(s);js.id=id;js.src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js";fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js,fjs);}}(document,"script","twitter-wjs");</script>
<script>!function(d,s,id){var js,fjs=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];if(!d.getElementById(id)){js=d.createElement(s);js.id=id;js.src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js";fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js,fjs);}}(document,"script","twitter-wjs");</script><br />
<br />
<!-- Start FastWebCounter.com --><a href="http://www.fastwebcounter.com/" title="Free Web Counter">This page was viewed <script src="http://fastwebcounter.com/secure.php?s=http://www.pinaytraveljunkie.com/2014/05/meknes-morocco-riad-hiba.html"></script> times.</a><br />
<!-- End FastWebCounter.com -->
Pinay Travel Junkiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15807759614906657509noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6634544634679824071.post-40972921343996606852014-05-06T18:10:00.000+08:002014-05-07T21:08:39.509+08:002Go Travel: Batangas-Boracay (Via Caticlan) RouteLate afternoon on a Sunday, mid-March, Batangas Port Terminal 2 looked glum and abandoned from the outside. Our van circled the lonely two-story structure until we got to its main entrance. Summer was just about to start in the Philippines, and the crew of GMA News TV's Pop Talk were off to an early sun worship. That, and a shoot in Boracay for their third anniversary special episode.<br />
<br />
I was to be a guest on the show. And truth be told, that's the only reason why I was going back to the island. I'm not a big fan of what the place has become, so I certainly wasn't thrilled to learn (The night before the trip!) that we'll be traveling for nine hours by vessel to get there.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><i>"The journey is the destination."</i></b> These words rung in my ears. I had been cooped in a cozy shell too long, I turned into a whiner. I opted to suck it up. To, you know, practice what I preach.</div>
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14062839446" title="2go1 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="2go1" height="341" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2934/14062839446_3712c824c1_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<div style="text-align: center;">
A behemoth. With a cute color scheme.</div>
<br />
We hopped off the vehicle as soon as the other van arrived, and followed the lead of 2Go Marketing and Events Manager Ervin Andaya. Our group was there two hours before boarding time so we didn't battle our way in. The cameramen took their time placing their precious equipment on the conveyor belt for the x-ray machine while the rest of us proceeded to the check-in counter.<br />
<br />
One by one, our photos were taken with a webcam for documentation. Tickets were distributed and we all dispersed. <br />
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14086798884" title="2go2 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="2go2" height="349" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2900/14086798884_758b49c6d4_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Pop Talk cameraman Kuya Obet, checking in and having his photo taken for documentation.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
Batangas Port Terminal 2 ain't flashy, but well kept. It's air-conditioned, and could get darn cold when uncrowded. There's a 7-11, a cafeteria, even a massage stall. Smokers may go out for a drag, just ask the guard where. The place did a pretty job in entertaining us those two hours. And because I was in good company, I hardly noticed the time. </div>
</div>
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14113650263" title="2go3 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="2go3" height="346" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2939/14113650263_bb4f287eb8_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The reception.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
We were allowed to board half an hour earlier so that the crew can do a quick shoot. Before setting foot on the vessel, luggage are further inspected by a sniffer dog. May take only a few seconds per person but could cause a build up on human traffic.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Up the steps, on the first landing, is the reception/lobby and a snack bar. The cabin and state rooms, in which we were assigned, are on this level as well. I checked in a cabin good for four, and shared it with Ervin who quickly became my bestie in the group.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14105063655" title="2go4 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="2go4" height="349" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5560/14105063655_54fca68cf5_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Cabin good for four, shared by only two. <br />
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14120387224" title="2go8 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="2go8" height="349" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5500/14120387224_205606b13f_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<center>
State room. Upgraded to this on the ride back. Each cabin/state room has a flat screen telly and an en suite bathroom with hot and cold shower.</center>
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
Keen on hitting the sack early, we headed to Horizon for dinner before the rest of the passengers started pouring in. The restaurant's on the next level above the lobby, same floor as the Super Value Class hall. Horizon's meals are far from fancy, but still a good feed. Reasonably priced too. The group ordered every kind of dish available. We finished our feast well before the 9:00 PM departure time. </div>
</div>
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14138757163" title="2go5 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="2go5" height="349" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7179/14138757163_a3e9db6ef2_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Pop Talk's host, Kuya Tonipet, chooses a meal at 2Go's resto Horizon.</div>
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14140491843" title="2go7 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="2go7" height="348" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7207/14140491843_17370010eb_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<center>
The lounge.</center>
<br />
Once all the passengers were settled in, a safety demo was conducted by the crew (was also shown on telly screens at the lobby and in Horizon). During which time, we heard the engine rumble to life. We finally began our journey to the island of Boracay.<br />
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/13932798327" title="2go6 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="2go6" height="349" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7068/13932798327_c085df483d_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Pre-departure safety demo.</div>
<br />
My roommate and I decided to take a peek at the bar before calling it a night. We found the whole Pop Talk crew there and they sure weren't ready to retire. A tower of <i>weng weng</i> was sitting on their table and yes, we joined in the fun. We watched the cover band, requested for songs <span class="st">— even danced to a couple of 'em.</span><br />
<span class="st"><br /></span>
<span class="st">I sang the last song <b>(I drunkenly volunteered to do Shakira)</b>. Everyone was on their feet at that point. Dancing, or leaving the bar cause of my singing, I wasn't sure. I didn't care. </span><br />
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14097454956" title="2go9 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="2go9" height="349" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7359/14097454956_89b8d8e3de_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The bar at daytime.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
The band bade goodnight. We bade each other goodnight too. But instead of going back to our respective rooms, celebrity Mico Aytona and I stayed behind to chug all unfinished drinks and babble about random stuff. He and I were up until four-ish in the morning and the vessel was to arrive at Caticlan Jetty Port in less than two hours.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Nine-hour journey. Just like that. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><i>"The journey is the destination."</i></b><i> </i> </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
2Go Travel knows so. </div>
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14117963382" title="2go10 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="2go10" height="349" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7313/14117963382_3313b99571_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<center>
Definitely doing this again.</center>
<br />
For more information and for bookings, visit:<br />
<u><b>http://travel.2go.com.ph</b></u><br />
<br />
Schedule of trips here: <a href="http://travel.2go.com.ph/Schedules/schedules.asp">http://travel.2go.com.ph/Schedules/schedules.asp</a><br />
<br />
Batangas-Boracay tickets prices (as of writing):<br />
<br />
Super Value Class - <b><span id="total_amount">1,163.99</span></b><b><span id="total_amount"> </span></b><span id="total_amount">pesos</span> inclusive of taxes and fees (about $26)<br />
Tourist Class - <b>1,264 </b><span id="total_amount">pesos</span> inclusive of taxes and fees (about $28.50)<br />
Cabin for 6 - <b>1,465.40 </b>pesos inclusive of taxes and fees (about $33)<br />
<br />
<div class="txt-normal">
<b>eTicket Itinerary Receipt</b><br />
<br />
<i>eTicket Itinerary Receipt is non-transferable. It is
valid within one (1) year from the original date of issuance. In case
wherein the passenger was not able to board their ticket, the ticket may
still be refunded or revalidated within its validity date subject to
surcharges and that it is not under the NON-REFUNDABLE promotion.</i></div>
<div class="txt-normal">
<b><br /></b>
<b>Traveling With Children</b><br />
<br />
<i>Children two (2) years old and below and children one (1) meter
and below in height are considered infants. A fixed rate of Php205.00 plus 12% VAT will be charged per
infant regardless of destination or accommodation. All surcharges
are waived.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>A separate ticket will be issued for the infant, however,
he/she will be sharing his/her parent or guardian's bunk or
room.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>No more than two (2) infants will be allowed per adult passenger.
The succeeding infants will be charged full promo fare or
75% off on base rates plus all the surcharges.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>Infants will not be boarded unless accompanied by an adult
(parent or guardian).</i><br />
<br />
<i><b>IMPORTANT: Read the Terms And Conditions before entering credit card/ATM card details.</b> </i><br />
<br /></div>
<a href="http://www.facebook.com/sharer.php" name="fb_share" type="box_count">Share</a><script src="http://static.ak.fbcdn.net/connect.php/js/FB.Share" type="text/javascript"></script><script src="http://www.stumbleupon.com/hostedbadge.php?s=5"></script><a class="twitter-share-button" data-via="nomadwifey" href="https://twitter.com/share">Tweet</a>
<script>!function(d,s,id){var js,fjs=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];if(!d.getElementById(id)){js=d.createElement(s);js.id=id;js.src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js";fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js,fjs);}}(document,"script","twitter-wjs");</script><br />
<br />
<!-- Start FastWebCounter.com --><a href="http://www.fastwebcounter.com/" title="Free Web Counter">This page was viewed <script src="http://fastwebcounter.com/secure.php?s=http://www.pinaytraveljunkie.com/2014/05/2go-travel-batangas-boracay-route.html"></script> times.</a><br />
<!-- End FastWebCounter.com --> Pinay Travel Junkiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15807759614906657509noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6634544634679824071.post-3584108189493595942014-04-29T21:21:00.000+08:002014-04-29T22:04:49.849+08:00Photo Essay: Galle Fort, Sri LankaWe were broke and beat up. Six days of constant move. Not exactly the kind of break new parents would hope for, but I knew I'd regret it if we simply lazed in one set of coordinates.<br />
<br />
Four UNESCO World Heritage Sites ticked, and we were to visit the fifth and last on our list. Sri Lanka actually has eight sites that have been inscribed. Unfortunately, we had to give the remaining three a pass.<br />
<br />
Because there's no admission fee required, plus we had time to kill before our train to Colombo (where we were to stay at a <i>couchsurfer's</i> house on our last night in the country) arrives, we pushed on with the idea of exploring Galle Fort.<br />
<br />
It capped off the whole trip pretty well. <br />
<br />
<center>
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/12183388546/" title="galle1 by nomadwifey, on Flickr"><img alt="galle1" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2821/12183388546_f62a8baed3_o.jpg" height="349" width="525" /></a></center>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Atop the walls of Galle Fort.</div>
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14048417822" title="galle2 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="galle2" height="349" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2904/14048417822_db22da3df4_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<center>
One of the fort's entrances near Galle's railway station.</center>
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14078735433" title="galle3 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="galle3" height="349" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5523/14078735433_9e03ce574b_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<center>
Popular spot for dates.</center>
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14078937423" title="galle4 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="galle4" height="349" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5554/14078937423_fd416c7105_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<div style="text-align: center;">
A view to stay a while for.</div>
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14056901371" title="galle5 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="galle5" height="349" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7078/14056901371_111708e9aa_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Street cricket, even within the fort's walls.</div>
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14057246682" title="galle6 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="galle6" height="349" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7361/14057246682_8cc33716ae_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Most structures withstood the Boxing Day Tsunami, which damaged a part of Galle town's coastal area.</div>
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14057601482" title="galle7 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="galle7" height="349" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7039/14057601482_8a9013c57d_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Establishments are a mix of world class and quaint. Fancy restos are easy to find, so are cheap snack stalls.</div>
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14061806774" title="galle8 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="galle8" height="349" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7310/14061806774_0d8469a927_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<div style="text-align: center;">
National Maritime Museum.</div>
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14058542181" title="galle9 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="galle9" height="349" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7039/14058542181_c81388e89c_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<center>
Dutch Reformed Church. Originally built in 1640.<span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-style: italic;"></span></span></center>
<center>
<span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><br /></span></span></center>
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/14062389724" title="galle10 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="galle10" height="349" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2918/14062389724_0b8830e4d9_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<div style="text-align: center;">
That group pictorial I crashed. Everyone went crazy.<span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-style: italic;"> </span></span></div>
<br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-style: italic;">Not-So Refreshingly Sri Lanka (and it's all my fault) Series:</span></span><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.pinaytraveljunkie.com/2013/07/unawatuna-beach-sri-lanka-where-we.html">Unawatuna Beach, Sri Lanka: Where We Should Have Been Since The Beginning</a><br />
<a href="http://www.pinaytraveljunkie.com/2012/10/sigiriya-sri-lanka-lions-rock.html">Sigiriya, Sri Lanka: Lion's Rock</a><br />
<a href="http://www.pinaytraveljunkie.com/2012/04/photo-essay-golden-temple-of-dambulla.html">Photo Essay: Golden Temple of Dambulla, Sri Lanka</a><br />
<a href="http://www.pinaytraveljunkie.com/2011/11/anuradhapura-sri-lanka-ruins-of-ancient.html">Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka: Ruins Of An Ancient Capital</a><br />
<a href="http://www.pinaytraveljunkie.com/2011/09/temple-of-tooth.html">Temple of The Tooth</a><br />
<a href="http://www.pinaytraveljunkie.com/2011/06/kandy-house.html">The Kandy House</a><br />
<a href="http://www.pinaytraveljunkie.com/2011/04/not-so-refreshingly-sri-lanka.html">Not-So Refreshingly Sri Lanka</a><br />
<a href="http://www.pinaytraveljunkie.com/2011/04/how-to-apply-for-sri-lanka-tourist-visa.html">How To Apply For A Sri Lanka Tourist Visa In The Philippines</a>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.facebook.com/sharer.php" name="fb_share" type="box_count">Share</a><script src="http://static.ak.fbcdn.net/connect.php/js/FB.Share" type="text/javascript"></script><script src="http://www.stumbleupon.com/hostedbadge.php?s=5"></script><a class="twitter-share-button" data-via="nomadwifey" href="https://twitter.com/share">Tweet</a>
<script>!function(d,s,id){var js,fjs=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];if(!d.getElementById(id)){js=d.createElement(s);js.id=id;js.src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js";fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js,fjs);}}(document,"script","twitter-wjs");</script><br />
<br />
<!-- Start FastWebCounter.com --><a href="http://www.fastwebcounter.com/" title="Free Web Counter">This page was viewed <script src="http://fastwebcounter.com/secure.php?s=http://www.pinaytraveljunkie.com/2014/04/photo-essay-galle-fort-sri-lanka.html"></script> times.</a><br />
<!-- End FastWebCounter.com --> Pinay Travel Junkiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15807759614906657509noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6634544634679824071.post-3750054904661992922014-04-20T13:18:00.000+08:002014-04-22T09:03:36.039+08:00Yak Pak's Summer GiveawayEye-catching prints. Bold colors. Oh that playful summer vibe! That's <a href="http://yakpak.com/"><u>Yak Pak</u></a> for you.<br />
<br />
Founded in 1989, the New York-based lifestyle brand manufactures a full range of products including, backpacks/day packs, messenger bags, lunch totes, and casual accessories for the teen and teen-at-heart. Yak Pak's open-minded approach to product design is the foundation of Yak Pak's spirit of freedom and independence that resonates throughout the brand.<br />
<br />
Dare to change. Shift from monochromatic bags to multicolored ones. They're easier to spot in the cabin's overhead compartment. Or on a luggage
belt. And not only are Yak Pak products rad, they're sturdy too. Now that's what I call an ideal travel buddy.<br />
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/13937072692" title="Blog Giveaway by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="Blog Giveaway" height="487" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2899/13937072692_aa6f99a648.jpg" width="500" /></a></center>
<br />
You could win one for yourself! <i><b> </b></i><br />
<br />
<i><b>Yak Pak's Summer Giveaway</b></i> is open to Philippine residents. Contest duration will be from April 20 to 27, 2014 only. Announcement of winner will be on April 28, 2014 and prize must be claimed at Yak Pak, Glorietta 5.<br />
<br />
Rafflecopter shows you the mechanics. <br />
<br />
<center>
<a class="rafl" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/cdf5410/" id="rc-cdf5410" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a>
<script src="//d12vno17mo87cx.cloudfront.net/embed/rafl/cptr.js"></script></center>
<br />
<b>But wait, there's more!</b> If you follow Yak Pak's (<a href="http://instagram.com/yakpakph">http://instagram.com/yakpakph</a>) and Pinay Travel Junkie's (<a href="http://instagram.com/pinaytraveljunkie">http://instagram.com/pinaytraveljunkie</a>) Instagram accounts you could also win a special Yak Pak gift. Make sure you leave your Instagram account name on the comments section below (winner will be chosen via Random.Org).<br />
<br />
Good luck, fellow travel junkies!<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.facebook.com/sharer.php" name="fb_share" type="box_count">Share</a><a class="twitter-share-button" data-via="nomadwifey" href="https://twitter.com/share">Tweet</a>
<br />
<script src="http://static.ak.fbcdn.net/connect.php/js/FB.Share" type="text/javascript"></script><script>!function(d,s,id){var js,fjs=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];if(!d.getElementById(id)){js=d.createElement(s);js.id=id;js.src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js";fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js,fjs);}}(document,"script","twitter-wjs");</script>
<!-- Start FastWebCounter.com --><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="http://www.fastwebcounter.com/" title="Free Web Counter">This page was viewed <script src="http://fastwebcounter.com/secure.php?s=http://www.pinaytraveljunkie.com/2014/04/yak-paks-summer-giveaway.html"></script> times.</a></div>
<!-- End FastWebCounter.com -->Pinay Travel Junkiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15807759614906657509noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6634544634679824071.post-54457342136901188052014-04-17T19:03:00.001+08:002014-04-21T09:15:11.843+08:00Pop Talk Third Anniversary Special: Look Pa, I'm On Telly Again!So I crawled out of my blogger cave. And it wasn't an easy path.<br />
<br />
You could easily make me abseil or cross a one-rope bridge, but I can be a major wuss in front of the cam.<br />
<br />
We were in Puerto Galera for the Malasimbo Music And Arts Festival when I
received an invite via SMS from one of Pop Talk's production staff to be
a <i>'reviewer'</i> for their third anniversary episode. My immediate reply, a fat no, was held up by my sister.<br />
<br />
"You <b>should say yes</b>.", she delivered it as if it's some advice that can save the world. <br />
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/13886813531" title="tv7 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="tv7" height="338" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3722/13886813531_5e0ee938e6_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<br />
Took a while (<b>and tons of courage</b>), but I eventually agreed to a five-day Boracay trip for the shoot. Because I will prolly never go back to Boracay at my own initiation. And because my father, who was confined in the hospital that time told me, <i>"I wanna see you on TV again."</i>.<br />
<br />
<b>Or he just didn't want to see me weeping by his side. </b><br />
<br />
My father visited the island a number of times in the 80s<span class="st">. It was his old photos of Boracay</span><span class="st"><span class="st"> —</span> back when it was </span><span class="st">paradisical </span><span class="st"><span class="st">—</span> that inspired me to make adventures of my own when I was a youngling. So in a way, the trip was a homage.</span><br />
<span class="st"><br /></span>
<span class="st">Here are a few snippets of the episode available online.</span><br />
<br />
<center>
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="349" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/Tw0vwroo2vw" width="525"></iframe></center>
<div style="text-align: center;">
"Basta nagets ko sailing, boarding, physics... Things I'm not good at!", and I laughed at my own confession.</div>
<br />
<center>
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="349" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/deiJORMb24Q" width="525"></iframe></center>
<div style="text-align: center;">
When asked if I'll do the ocean walk again, I replied, "Not tomorrow!".</div>
<br />
<center>
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="349" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/lvw7e8w9PPA" width="525"></iframe></center>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Had a discreet battle against co-reviewer Philipp over who gets the bigger portion of the homemade corn soup.</div>
<br />
<center>
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="349" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/-IC8IfUevZs" width="525"></iframe></center>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i> "Gusto kita."</i>, co-reviewer Philipp talking to his panang curry(?).</div>
<br />
Pop Talk introduced me to a bunch of cool people, took me to parts of Boracay I haven't set foot on, and helped me face my fear of deep water. And oh, my guesting made ze pop truly proud.<br />
<br />
The show's on every Saturday, 8:00 PM, GMA News TV. Hosted by Tonipet Gaba.<br />
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/13934587281" title="poptalk by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="poptalk" height="401" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2900/13934587281_831a6506b4_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<br />
<a href="http://www.facebook.com/sharer.php" name="fb_share" type="box_count">Share</a><a class="twitter-share-button" data-via="nomadwifey" href="https://twitter.com/share">Tweet</a>
<br />
<script src="http://static.ak.fbcdn.net/connect.php/js/FB.Share" type="text/javascript"></script><script>!function(d,s,id){var js,fjs=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];if(!d.getElementById(id)){js=d.createElement(s);js.id=id;js.src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js";fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js,fjs);}}(document,"script","twitter-wjs");</script>
<!-- Start FastWebCounter.com --><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="http://www.fastwebcounter.com/" title="Free Web Counter">This page was viewed <script src="http://fastwebcounter.com/secure.php?s=http://www.pinaytraveljunkie.com/2014/04/pop-talk-third-anniversary-special-look.html"></script> times.</a></div>
<!-- End FastWebCounter.com -->Pinay Travel Junkiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15807759614906657509noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6634544634679824071.post-81768629590417671272014-04-14T17:27:00.000+08:002014-04-14T19:49:43.576+08:00The Circle Hostel, La Union: Amidst Artists And AdventurersI woke up next to someone new. And I wasn't sure if we were even introduced. <br />
<br />
The scent of salty hair hung in my nostrils, and for a moment, I couldn't recall where I was. I tried to rise but a pang in my head made me plop back down the bunk. The pain disabled my brain, completely. I rolled over to my other side and came face to face with a wall made of bamboo strips. Beyond which was a figure<span class="st"> —</span> awake and moving <span class="st"></span>about <span class="st">— </span> I caught sight of between the tiny gaps.<br />
<br />
I watched mindlessly for a while.<br />
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/13446916854" title="circle1 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="circle1" height="349" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3706/13446916854_0a72587260_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<center>
There are no strangers here. </center>
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/13787769205" title="circle2 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="circle2" height="349" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7195/13787769205_1a6963401d_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<center>
Berths and personal spaces.</center>
<center>
</center>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Was brought back to my senses minutes later when I heard a constant shuffling of feet. Lots of feet. I managed to sit up and saw the strangers I rode with, on a land journey of almost six hours the previous night. All just outta bed, and were nameless to me at that point but I greeted each with an inaudible <i>"g'morning"</i>. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
So I finally remembered where in the world I was, and how mad I was for traveling to La Union straight from Boracay. The heady concoction of eight hours on a vessel plus eight hours in vans surely was the culprit for my hammered head. </div>
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/13795281823" title="circle4 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="circle4" height="348" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3831/13795281823_898c44b5cd_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<center>
The brekkie nook, right by the locker area.</center>
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/13836607015" title="circle6 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="circle6" height="349" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5073/13836607015_3026baff9f_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
The lounge/common area upstairs.</div>
<br />
I spotted a familiar face. The figure from the other side of the wall, I soon found out, was fellow travel blogger and my <i>homegurl</i> Christine of <a href="http://jovialwanderer.com/">JovialWanderer.com</a>. She who managed to convince me to pursue the trip even if I already begged off days earlier. Well, she and Aldous of <a href="http://aldousatetheworld.blogspot.com/">AldousAteTheWorld.blogspot.com</a> who organized the weekend bloggers' shindig.<br />
<br />
We, along with four other bloggers, were checked in The Circle Hostel, La Union. We arrived about half past three that morning. In which time I randomly chose among the bunks assigned for the group and passed out right away.<br />
<br /></div>
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/13837408453" title="circle7 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="circle7" height="349" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3813/13837408453_91cd640fe0_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<center>
Hammocks for rent. Such cozy cocoons.</center>
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/13840386624" title="circle3 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="circle3" height="350" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3807/13840386624_af82341d1a_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<center>
This lattice wall spoke to me. So I just had to try it.</center>
<center>
</center>
<center>
<div style="text-align: left;">
The Circle Hostel La Union is a very
affordable hostel for both surfers and non-surfers, that sits on a lot
away from highway noise but just two hundred meters from the beach. Its
layout is set up with the backpacker culture in mind. The open plan structure <span class="st">— </span>having only 2 bunk rooms, 1 hammock area and 1 lounge/common area <span class="st">—</span>
paves way for interaction between guests. Bed in the bunk room (has
privacy curtain and mosquito net) is P450 (about $10), and a hammock is
P350 (about $8).</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Facilities: Free WiFi (common area), lockers (bring your own padlock or rent one), toilet and bath.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
A towel may be hired for P40, with a P100 deposit.<br />
<br />
Day use of facilities is a pocket friendly P150. </div>
<br />
</center>
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/13840956745" title="circle8 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="circle8" height="349" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3723/13840956745_0a6b234f89_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b> </b></i>Anyone can grab a bucket of paint and send a message through art.</div>
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/13841738584" title="circle5 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="circle5" height="346" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7135/13841738584_229f49e934_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Couldn't help it.</div>
</div>
<br />
<i><b>"There are no strangers here."</b>,</i> says on their website.
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
True enough, our motley band of bloggers congregated with other guests for an uncomplicated power brekkie of pandesal all-you-want with two choices of spread. I introduced myself to the rest of our party: Samantha of <a href="http://greenspired.wordpress.com/">greenspired.wordpress.com</a>, RD of <a href="http://rdllarena.com/">rdllarena.com</a>, Rhea of <a href="http://rheabue.com/">rheabue.com</a>, and Kat of <a href="http://katvaldez.com/">katvaldez.com</a>.<br />
<br />
Everyone was up for surfing. Except me. <br />
<br />
As the sun inched higher, the crowd at the lounge thinned, group by group. Ours headed off as well, led by one of The Circle Hostel's owners Rafael Oca, to catch the early waves. </div>
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/13841592085" title="circle9 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="circle9" height="347" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7239/13841592085_39f7712afc_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Not exactly what we were hoping for.</div>
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/13842080135" title="circle10 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="circle10" height="340" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7017/13842080135_cf56dc86d9_z.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Brief lesson from Surf Star School Of Surfing.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br />
The waves, we were told, were too wild for us beginners. We then parked our arses on the sand, thinking we'll prolly just call it a day and start chugging beer at 8 in the morn (Okay, that was just me thinking!). But because we saw other beginners braving the shoulder-height waves, the rest said they might as well surf.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br />
So they did, after a brief lesson from Surf Star School Of Surfing. </div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
I watched each one attempt and stand and fall and laugh. And found myself wanting to attempt and stand and fall and laugh too. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
So I did. I was able to stand on the board on my first attempt and I was the most surprised of all. I felt so victorious that after the first ride, my thoughts went back to beer.<br />
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/13842700704" title="circle11 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="circle11" height="349" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7369/13842700704_3ceef88334_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<div style="text-align: center;">
First and almost last attempt.</div>
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/13842973864" title="circle12 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="circle12" height="341" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7392/13842973864_d46c0381f9_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<div style="text-align: center;">
From left: Christine, RD, me, Aldous, Samantha, Kat and Rhea.</div>
<br />
And beer happened during lunch at <span class="st">Gefseis Greek Grill. </span>Christine and I had to bail out later that day so we took the opportunity to get to know more about the individuals in our group. <span class="st">Individuals from different niches</span>. Over platters of <i>souvlaki</i>, we discovered common interests and frustrations. We shared stories that, although very random, entertained everybody on the table. We made friends.<br />
<br />
There really are no strangers. Just friends we have not met yet. The Circle Hostel is out to prove that. Come spend the night, leave your inhibitions behind. And prepare to meet a new circle.<br />
<br /></div>
<br />
<i>How to get to The Circle Hostel, La Union: Visit this page</i> for info <a href="http://www.launion.thecirclehostel.com/location">http://www.launion.thecirclehostel.com/location</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<u>The Circle Hostel La Union</u><br />
Urbiztondo, San Juan<br />
La Union,Philippines<br />
<a href="http://www.launion.thecirclehostel.com/">www.launion.thecirclehostel.com </a><br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.facebook.com/sharer.php" name="fb_share" type="box_count">Share</a><a class="twitter-share-button" data-via="nomadwifey" href="https://twitter.com/share">Tweet</a>
<br />
<script src="http://static.ak.fbcdn.net/connect.php/js/FB.Share" type="text/javascript"></script><script>!function(d,s,id){var js,fjs=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];if(!d.getElementById(id)){js=d.createElement(s);js.id=id;js.src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js";fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js,fjs);}}(document,"script","twitter-wjs");</script>
<!-- Start FastWebCounter.com --><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="http://www.fastwebcounter.com/" title="Free Web Counter">This page was viewed <script src="http://fastwebcounter.com/secure.php?s=http://www.pinaytraveljunkie.com/2014/04/the-circle-hostel-la-union-amidst.html"></script> times.</a></div>
<!-- End FastWebCounter.com -->Pinay Travel Junkiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15807759614906657509noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6634544634679824071.post-8967426000368691842014-04-07T11:59:00.000+08:002014-04-08T17:16:21.221+08:002014 Thus Far: The First QuarterWe had the temerity to change.<br />
<br />
Finally.<br />
<br />
Towards the end of 2013, we moved in our little shack (okay, it's not really little and not really a shack, but it's cute to call it such) in the Philippines. It's been gobbling half of our income for a year and five months now, and has pushed me to the breaking point. Three months on since we spent our first night in it, am still not coping well with this settling down situation although the hubby and I took preparatory measures.<br />
<br />
More on that drama some other day. <br />
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/13666601635" title="reef2 by Gay Miriel Emami, on Flickr"><img alt="reef2" height="346" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3669/13666601635_f6e2fa3361_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<center>
Green Island, Great Barrier Reef, Australia.</center>
<center>
</center>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #990000;">For now, let me blabber about all the jaunts and shindigs that kept me sane during the first quarter of 2014. And a heartbreak that shattered me into pieces. Here's the year thus far...</span></div>
<br />
First day of the year, woke up to a sparsely furnished room. A room that hubby and I can finally call <i>ours</i>. The night before, we were able to celebrate New Year's Eve with my parents after missing the previous two in the Philippines.<br />
<br />
Attended Jacob Maentz's The Forgotten Ten Photography Exhibition in Yuchengco Museum. The exhibit showcased a year and a half of Jacob’s documentary work from various indigenous communities around the Philippines.<br />
<br />
Impromptu Baguio trip with Melo of www.outoftownblog.com and Julius of www.lakwastserongtsnelas.blogspot.com. Finally entered the Laperal White House, chanced upon the Ifugao Bamboo Carving Art Exhibit there, and luckily met Philippine Bamboo Foundation President Edgardo Manda.<br />
<br />
Co-organized a The Linden Suites staycation which I dubbed <i>Pajama Party Wherein We Don't Wear Pajamas</i> for Pinoy travel bloggers. Sabrina of www.justonewayticket.com and Kate of www.adventurouskate.com also joined the Pinoy food pig-out and videoke madness.<br />
<br />
Vacationed in Siargao for the first time and was hosted by Buddha's Surf Resort. Celebrated Melo's name day with an island hopping tour. And nope, we didn't surf cause our lazy arses would rather hammock-surf.<br />
<br />
Blindly jumped in an exploration semi-conducted by fellow travel blogger Edgar of eazytraveler.com. Destination, Sulu. The night before my flight, my father was confined in a hospital for tests after a mass was found in his brain. I left him with a heavy heart. I left because that's what he wanted. He who passed me the travel bug would rather see me in photos exploring an unfamiliar place, than see me weeping in pain by his side.<br />
<br />
Celebrated the hubby's birthday at White Beach, Puerto Galera over authentic Italian pizza and a stunning sunset. Day after, we partied like there's no tomorrow (and like there's no toddler in tow) with two other travel bloggers. Learned the basics of poi dancing whilst inebriated on the same night.<br />
<br />
My sister, daughter Luna and I trooped to Mt. Malasimbo for the Malasimbo Music & Arts Fest for the first time. Went mainly for Jose Gonzalez. Mishka Adams was a plus. Eating a P40(!) <i>balut</i> was one of the night's highlights.<br />
<br />
Broke out of my blogger shell and agreed to be a "reviewer" for Pop Talk's Third Anniversary Special. The show brought me to Boracay. It was my second visit on the island. Day before the trip, my father was again rushed to the hospital. Apparently, he had a silent stroke. And once again, he let me go while he was confined. He said, "I want to see you on TV again."<br />
<br />
The Pop Talk crew encouraged me to face my fear of the deep. After much whining and yapping and almost-sobbing, I dove down a colossal aquarium for an "ocean walk".<br />
<br />
From Boracay, went straight to The Circle Hostel in La Union with a bunch of new faces <span class="st">—</span> except for my homegirl Christine of www.jovialwanderer.com. Even though I was feeling under the weather, I tried surfing for the first time, and was able to stand on the board on my first attempt! I was the most surprised of all.<br />
<br />
March ended with the beginning of our Cairns-Sydney roadtrip. Found ourselves in a <span class="st">paradisiacal place called The Great Barrier Reef.</span><br />
<span class="st"><br /></span>
<span class="st"><span style="color: #990000;">Where we are now...</span></span><br />
<br />
Just finished our 9-day Cairns-Sydney roadtrip yesterday <span class="st">— a journey of about 3,000 kilometers </span><span class="st">—</span> and we intend to hibernate here in my mum-in-law's house until we leave Australia late April. The season's perfect for swimming in sheets anyway. And for devising our lives for the second quarter, which may include one long haul flight, and a lot more sun-basking <span class="st">— wherein I expect to finally try on <u><a href="http://www.zalora.com.ph/">the swimmies and kaftans I fished from Zalora</a></u>.</span><br />
<span class="st"><br /></span>
<b><span class="st">Huh? What house?</span></b><br />
<span class="st"><br /></span>
<span class="st"><br /></span>
<a href="http://www.facebook.com/sharer.php" name="fb_share" type="box_count">Share</a><a class="twitter-share-button" data-via="nomadwifey" href="https://twitter.com/share">Tweet</a>
<br />
<script src="http://static.ak.fbcdn.net/connect.php/js/FB.Share" type="text/javascript"></script><script>!function(d,s,id){var js,fjs=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];if(!d.getElementById(id)){js=d.createElement(s);js.id=id;js.src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js";fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js,fjs);}}(document,"script","twitter-wjs");</script>
<!-- Start FastWebCounter.com --><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="http://www.fastwebcounter.com/" title="Free Web Counter">This page was viewed <script src="http://fastwebcounter.com/secure.php?s=http://www.pinaytraveljunkie.com/2014/04/2014-thus-far-first-quarter.html"></script> times.</a></div>
<!-- End FastWebCounter.com -->Pinay Travel Junkiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15807759614906657509noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6634544634679824071.post-82640675661600151612014-03-24T07:26:00.000+08:002014-03-26T17:51:58.472+08:00Withlocals.com: Going Local With Locals<b>Immerse. </b>Have we not heard this countless times from seasoned travelers? And have we not thought of this as <span class="st">— now let's be honest here </span><span class="st"><span class="st">— a gargantuan task to fulfill? </span></span><br />
<br />
<span class="st"><span class="st">When <i>on the road</i>, going local is how I usually roll. Many years of backpacking taught me how to trust in the good of humanity, in good karma and in the positive vibes of the universe. This idiosyncrasy of mine, and of fellow nomads, may be difficult for holidaymakers to comprehend. Undecipherable even, for the wary. </span></span><br />
<br />
<span class="st"><span class="st">So how do we introduce this so-called "immersion" to occasional vacationers who lack time, extra dough and well, credence?</span> </span><br />
<b> </b>
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/13372918304/" title="withlocals1 by nomadwifey, on Flickr"><img alt="withlocals1" height="341" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7319/13372918304_64c5865d88_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<center>
The <i>Pasar</i> (Market) Tour in Malaysia organized by local Khairun Halina.</center>
<center>
</center>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><a href="http://withlocals.com/"><u>Withlocals.com</u></a> comes to our aid. </b><br />
<br />
TheWithLocals website is a <i>"marketplace connecting travelers from every
corner of the world with locals in Asia offering unique travel
experiences and home dining opportunities..."</i>. It's an online platform that helps build personal relationships between travelers and locals, that could begin even when distant from each other, at the click of a mouse.<br />
<br />
Locals sign up as hosts and offer services for reasonable rates, and travelers sign up to "book experiences". These experiences are sorted into three categories: <span class="eat"> </span><br />
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/13376500183/" title="withlocals3 by nomadwifey, on Flickr"><img alt="withlocals3" height="347" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7147/13376500183_56512e0cc4_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="eat">EAT Withlocals, </span>wherein you get a real taste of the local culture by dining with a family in their home;<span class="tours"> </span></div>
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/13376913563/" title="withlocals4 by nomadwifey, on Flickr"><img alt="withlocals4" height="345" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3701/13376913563_b8b51b800f_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="tours">TOURS Withlocals, wherein you get to discover off-the-beaten-track sites under the guidance of your host</span><span class="tours">; </span></div>
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/13377069245/" title="withlocals5 by nomadwifey, on Flickr"><img alt="withlocals5" height="343" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7105/13377069245_ddc4374312_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="tours">and </span><span class="activities">ACTIVITIES Withlocals wherein you don't just observe locals do their thang, you get to learn/do them yourself too!</span></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>"But it ain't for free!"</i>, I hear you say.<br />
<br />
WithLocals.com believes<i> </i>that<i> "every person is good at something and that there’s no
greater way to earn a living than by doing something you are passionate
about.".</i> The site provides an opportunity for people, especially locals in developing countries, to boost their income by showcasing their skills and sharing their knowledge. You might have spent money on a travel agent before, and hey, this isn't really any different. Okay, except the middle-man's slashed. And isn't that a good thing?</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Yes, the best things in life are free, but ain't it better if you're able to help out others? </div>
</div>
<br />
<center>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/13374444863/" title="withlocals2 by nomadwifey, on Flickr"><img alt="withlocals2" height="272" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2892/13374444863_b82c178675_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<center>
Ultimate experience. You may find it here.</center>
<center>
</center>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Head over to their website and learn more about, quite possibly, the future of travel. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br />
Get in touch directly with the locals. Try to immerse, even for a fleeting moment.<br />
<br />
<br />
<i>[All photos courtesy of WithLocals.com]</i><br />
<br /></div>
<span class="st"></span><script src="//d12vno17mo87cx.cloudfront.net/embed/rafl/cptr.js"></script>
<a href="http://www.facebook.com/sharer.php" name="fb_share" type="box_count">Share</a><a class="twitter-share-button" data-via="nomadwifey" href="https://twitter.com/share">Tweet</a>
<br />
<script src="http://static.ak.fbcdn.net/connect.php/js/FB.Share" type="text/javascript"></script><script>!function(d,s,id){var js,fjs=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];if(!d.getElementById(id)){js=d.createElement(s);js.id=id;js.src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js";fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js,fjs);}}(document,"script","twitter-wjs");</script>
<!-- Start FastWebCounter.com --><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="http://www.fastwebcounter.com/" title="Free Web Counter">This page was viewed <script src="http://fastwebcounter.com/secure.php?s=http://www.pinaytraveljunkie.com/2014/03/withlocalscom-going-local-with-locals.html"></script> times.</a></div>
<!-- End FastWebCounter.com -->Pinay Travel Junkiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15807759614906657509noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6634544634679824071.post-45821746828640899822014-03-20T16:51:00.001+08:002014-03-20T17:07:35.415+08:00Sulu Sojourn: Reconnaissance<i>"He'll die for you."</i><br />
<br />
It wasn't a line fished out of a zombie-romance flick. Nor lyrics of some mawkish glam rock song. It was literal to the core, delivered with utmost nonchalance by a <span class="st">first lieutenant</span> nicknamed Mac as he thumbed towards the officer behind me.<br />
<br />
The words sent a chill up my spine.<br />
<br />
Just minutes prior, fellow traveler Edgar<span class="st"> </span><span class="st"><span class="st">— who convinced me to <a href="https://www.cebupacificair.com/">book a flight at the last minute</a> </span></span><span class="st"><span class="st"><span class="st">—</span></span> </span>and I arrived at the relatively young Jolo Airport. Mac and a slew of marines escorted us to a van that was to be our service for the four-day trip. It had to be a private vehicle, I was told, because the marines' pick up trucks are sometimes assaulted with grenades. I slouched on my seat and barely said anything throughout the ride to our first stop.<br />
<br />
<center>
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/13184682425/" title="sulu1 by nomadwifey, on Flickr"><img alt="sulu1" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2287/13184682425_e1116004e1_o.jpg" height="346" width="525" /></a></center>
<center>
This one never left my side. Bualu Bat Sanctuary, Maimbung.</center>
<center>
</center>
<div style="text-align: left;">
So in what context was Mac's statement raised then? I must have smelt
of fear. No thanks to the old lady I sat next to earlier aboard the
<a href="http://www.wego.com.ph/flights/mnl/zam/cheapest-flights-from-manila-to-zamboanga">turboprop plane from Zamboanga</a> whose uncalled welcome remarks consisted of a vague historical timeline, a list
of people who got killed within <span class="st">a three-kilometer radius from the runway where we were taxiing, and an advice to wear the <i>hijab. </i> </span><br />
<br />
<span class="st">She rounded up with <i>"Enjoy Sulu!"</i>. <b>Enjoy</b>. The verb seemed like a challenge.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<center>
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/13217128075/" title="sulu1 by nomadwifey, on Flickr"><img alt="sulu1" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3715/13217128075_133c61876b_o.jpg" height="553" width="525" /></a>
</center>
<center>
First meal on the island. They stood guard while I gobbled my <i>tiyula itum </i>(black soup).</center>
<br />
<center>
</center>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I attempted to sweep away morbid thoughts as I soaked up the jolt of
morning rush through my window. Jolo the capital, resembled other
Southeast Asian Islamic cities.<i> </i>Mosques, <i>hijabs</i>, <i>halal</i>
food stalls, discreet/nonexistent pubs. The streets were abuzz and
locals went about their business as if the socio-political turmoil in
the island province is no more than an urban legend.<br />
<br />
<center>
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/13232720775/" title="sulu3 by nomadwifey, on Flickr"><img alt="sulu3" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3765/13232720775_09d6863829_o.jpg" height="349" width="525" /></a></center>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Beautiful. Deserted.</div>
<br />
On our day one itinerary <span class="st">— and when I say 'itinerary' I mean a computer-printed itinerary </span>in a spreadsheet layout, bulleted by military time <span class="st">— which Mac constructed, were sights that serve as prelude to cultural immersion. Museum, the provincial capitol, old Spanish towers. I'm usually not the itinerary kind of backpacker, but for that trip it was imperative to let go of the helm.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="st"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="st">To follow whims. To entrust one's life. </span><br />
<br />
<span class="st">My distress somehow faded as the day
progressed. Never felt like I was under any kind of threat, and I
wondered if escorts were really necessary or we were simply babied so
the marines could mark a good impression.</span><br />
<br />
<center>
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/13233264623/" title="sulu4 by nomadwifey, on Flickr"><img alt="sulu4" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7110/13233264623_62be8ecce4_o.jpg" height="349" width="525" /></a></center>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="st"> Raja Baginda (reputed first Muslim ruler of Sulu) Shrine in Camp Bud Datu.</span></div>
<br />
<span class="st">Approaching sundown, we were rushed (they wouldn't risk joyriding in the
dark) to Bud Datu where the 9th Marine Battalion was encamped. </span><span class="st">Had dinner and a few beers with the officers on a balcony </span><span class="st"><span class="st">overlooking
the capital and a mountain territory of Islamist separatist group Abu
Sayyaf, before slumbering in a room setup for visiting commanders.</span></span><br />
<br />
That night was devoid of unease. Even though we chewed on stories of
casualty, of sorrow, of boredom, of finding love in a seemingly hopeless
place. I drew an early conclusion that Sulu, at least at that time,
wasn't as menacing as I the outsider assumed. That the place could
easily be explored by a brave few when not under fire.<br />
<br />
In the next two days, unfortunately, my sentiments made a total turnaround.<span class="st"> </span><br />
<br />
<center>
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/13235041324/" title="sulu5 by nomadwifey, on Flickr"><img alt="sulu5" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7172/13235041324_28750bc07e_o.jpg" height="344" width="525" /></a></center>
<center>
View atop Camp Bud Datu.</center>
<br />
Mac began his day two prologue in the van with some random report. <i>"Meron pa sigurong bente na andun sa bundok </i>(There
are probably twenty people left on the mountain.).", he was referring
to kidnap victims. Apparently separatists and extremists are always on
the prowl.<br />
<br />
Why he shared this piece of information? I must have smelt of ridiculous courage. And he didn't want to take chances.<br />
<br />
<i>"He'll die for you.", </i>the words from yesterday echoed and resonated.</div>
<br />
<center>
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/13235380485/" title="sulu1 by nomadwifey, on Flickr"><img alt="sulu1" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3752/13235380485_92e371a753_o.jpg" height="364" width="525" /></a></center>
<center>
He who will die for me. He who let out a muffled snicker while I sweat under his three-kilo helmet. Oh how we killed waiting time.</center>
<br />
I put my guard back up. And it stayed on for the remaining days of our
trip that was a mishmash of island hopping with fourteen marines, armed with heavy artillery; driving through no man's
lands, and sometimes trudging on them; <span class="fbPhotosPhotoCaption" id="fbPhotoSnowliftCaption" tabindex="0"><span class="hasCaption">trying out wayside cafeterias, where the marines themselves are afraid to dine in; and crossing bamboo bridges in a water village to catch weavers of <i>pis</i> (local woven textile) do their magic.</span></span><br />
<br />
<center>
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/13236690903/" title="sulu3 by nomadwifey, on Flickr"><img alt="sulu3" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3803/13236690903_1083279195_o.jpg" height="343" width="525" /></a></center>
<div style="text-align: center;">
A looker that can mask bedlam. "Floating Cottage", Maimbung Bay.</div>
<br />
<span class="fbPhotosPhotoCaption" id="fbPhotoSnowliftCaption" tabindex="0"><span class="hasCaption">We were introduced to a band of government officials, more marine officers, a member of the MNLF (</span></span><span class="fbPhotosPhotoCaption" id="fbPhotoSnowliftCaption" tabindex="0"><span class="hasCaption"><span class="st">Moro National Liberation Front)<i>, </i></span>civilian women who "guard" their municipality at night (against invaders), and a community rebuilding their reclaimed area. Their choice of staying in their respective hometowns amidst the on and off unrest, to me, is unfathomable. They live in anxiety. Not the I-need-dibs-to-pay-the-bills kind of anxiety that attacks every month, but the I-could-lose-a-house-or-loved-one kind of constant anxiety.</span></span><span class="fbPhotosPhotoCaption" id="fbPhotoSnowliftCaption" tabindex="0"><span class="hasCaption"> My first world issues here are nothing but trivial.</span></span><br />
<br />
<center>
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/13237625824/" title="sulu4 by nomadwifey, on Flickr"><img alt="sulu4" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7411/13237625824_52857e5b75_o.jpg" height="349" width="525" /></a></center>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Kept pristine, perhaps by conflict. Teomabal Island.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Was I surprised with this realization? Let's just say I was caught off-guard by something else.<br />
<br />
Reconnaissance, or simply recon, is an exploratory mission to gather information about an enemy's territory. It wasn't my objective, but I underwent a recon of sorts. My enemies: doubt, fear, and an adolescent ignorance. I studied them. Overcame them. Handed my life to strangers who would literally catch a bullet for me, and I didn't even know their names. Lent my occasionally stuck up ears to folks whose narratives are bereft of social media lingo.<br />
<br />
<center>
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/13238515494/" title="sulu5 by nomadwifey, on Flickr"><img alt="sulu5" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7167/13238515494_0b3b539564_o.jpg" height="349" width="525" /></a></center>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Sunrise view from <span class="fbPhotosPhotoCaption" id="fbPhotoSnowliftCaption" tabindex="0"><span class="hasCaption">Mt. Bayug Eco-Cultural Park. Depicting hope.</span></span></div>
<br />
I tasted victory, but there was nothing to celebrate about. Similar to my first world issues, my personal victory is trivial here as well.<br />
<br />
I left the province with a change in character. Akin to a soldier who left the battlefield... There's simply no turning back to my old self.<br />
<br />
<center>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="http://www.facebook.com/sharer.php" name="fb_share" type="box_count">Share</a><a class="twitter-share-button" data-via="nomadwifey" href="https://twitter.com/share">Tweet</a></div>
<script src="http://static.ak.fbcdn.net/connect.php/js/FB.Share" type="text/javascript"></script><script>!function(d,s,id){var js,fjs=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];if(!d.getElementById(id)){js=d.createElement(s);js.id=id;js.src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js";fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js,fjs);}}(document,"script","twitter-wjs");</script>
<!-- Start FastWebCounter.com --><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="http://www.fastwebcounter.com/" title="Free Web Counter">This page was viewed <script src="http://fastwebcounter.com/secure.php?s=http://www.pinaytraveljunkie.com/2014/03/sulu-sojourn-reconnaissance.html"></script> times.</a></div>
<!-- End FastWebCounter.com --></center>
Pinay Travel Junkiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15807759614906657509noreply@blogger.com31tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6634544634679824071.post-70216541533250534342014-03-07T15:06:00.001+08:002014-03-08T08:21:35.584+08:00Buddha's Surf Resort, Siargao: Surf's Up, Feet UpOur twin-engine turboprop bird unsteadily circled above the island for about twenty minutes. The air was tense inside the cabin. Not so much because we were terrified of a rough touchdown, but because we were worried about not touching down at all. That the near-zero visibility will force the pilots to abort landing. <br />
<br />
The captain came on as I tugged my daughter Luna's seat belt tighter. I caught <i>"Try... South quadrant... Approach...". </i>In case you missed it <span class="st">—<i> <b>"Try"</b></i>!</span><span class="st"></span><br />
<br />
I tugged <b>my</b> seat belt tighter.<br />
<br />
<center>
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/12963250793/" title="buddha1 by nomadwifey, on Flickr"><img alt="buddha1" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2846/12963250793_6bc4775209_o.jpg" height="335" width="525" /></a></center>
<center>
Buddha's Surf Resort, nestled amidst towering coconut trees.</center>
<br />
<center>
</center>
<div style="text-align: left;">
A few more minutes passed, then finally, the sound of screeching tires. Not the kind of landing I was bracing myself for. Twas relatively smooth. Eerily calm under the glum weather.<br />
<br />
I heaved a sigh of relief.</div>
<br />
<center>
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/12967324555/" title="buddha2 by nomadwifey, on Flickr"><img alt="buddha2" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7447/12967324555_be1ac779b6_o.jpg" height="349" width="525" /></a></center>
<center>
A thirst-quenching island welcome.</center>
<center>
</center>
<div style="text-align: left;">
The hubby, my daughter and I hopped off the plane and huddled to share a brolly we grabbed from the ground staff at the foot of the stairs. We joined our travel buddies Melo of <a href="http://outoftownblog.com/">Out Of Town Blog</a>, Ron of <a href="http://www.fliptravels.com/">Flip Travels</a>, and Lai of <a href="http://www.pinaytravelista.com/">Pinay Travelista</a> at Sayak Airport's teensy arrivals hall. Soon as we got our backpacks, we headed to the airport's parking lot and were ushered by a driver to his van where three foreigners from our flight were already waiting.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<center>
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/12970183205/" title="buddha3 by nomadwifey, on Flickr"><img alt="buddha3" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7342/12970183205_a8366ec693_o.jpg" height="349" width="525" /></a></center>
<center>
Ze icon.</center>
<center>
</center>
A van ride from Siargao's Sayak airport to General Luna costs P300 per person (one way) and can easily be arranged upon arrival (if heading straight to another town, hire a <i>habal-habal</i>). Trip lasts forty minutes, and passengers are dropped off at the doorstep of their respective hotels. Our accommodation was booked beforehand so we simply uttered<i><b> Buddha's Surf Resort</b></i> to the driver before conking out. <br />
<br />
<center>
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/12971094635/" title="buddha6 by nomadwifey, on Flickr"><img alt="buddha6" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7388/12971094635_dcda9d0b95_o.jpg" height="343" width="525" /></a></center>
<center>
Wall art at Buddha's Surf Resort's restaurant.</center>
<center>
</center>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Buddha's Surf Resort lies between the municipality of General Luna and the famous surfing spot Cloud 9 (where the annual <span class="st">Siargao International Surfing Cup<i> </i></span>is held). A convenient location for both surfers and non-surfers. The staff promptly assisted us in unloading our luggage when we arrived and led us to the reception-slash-restaurant. Our stay was a sponsored one and the manager, Chris (with a crown of gorgeous curly locks similar to that of the hubby's before middle age deprived him of hair), gave us a quick intro of the resort as we sipped our welcome drinks. </div>
<center>
</center>
<center>
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/12973072134/" title="buddha9 by nomadwifey, on Flickr"><img alt="buddha9" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7366/12973072134_236c1d213b_o.jpg" height="349" width="525" /></a></center>
<center>
Rooms are housed in a building separate from the restaurant and communal lounge area.</center>
<br />
<span style="color: #990000;">Resort Amenities:</span><br />
<br />
All rooms have air conditioning and hot water<br />
Daily housekeeping <br />
En-suite bathroom for each room<br />
Free Wi-Fi throughout the resort<br />
From January 2014 all direct bookings include breakfast<br />
<br />
<center>
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/12973437515/" title="buddha5 by nomadwifey, on Flickr"><img alt="buddha5" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2007/12973437515_f14f6c3e46_o.jpg" height="349" width="525" /></a></center>
<center>
Oh that humongous key chain. You certainly can't lose something like that.</center>
<center>
</center>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #990000;">Accommodation </span></div>
<center>
</center>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Although the property's quite vast, the resort is currently offering only five rooms. Which guarantees guests seclusion. My family was given the superior room while the others were assigned in the family room.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
The superior room on the second level was every bit ideal for our family of three. Its floor space is insanely immense. The bed, although too high for our toddler to climb on, is colossal as well and had pristine sheets when we checked in (I still dream of its softness 'til this very day). There's a flat screen telly <b>and a hard drive that contains heaps of movies</b>. A desk that made us digital nomads cheer, and a private balcony where we whiled away the rainy afternoons. And oh, there's a Loudbasstard amplifier in the room which we weren't able to use but raved about anyway. Its rate as of writing is P2,650 per night (about UD$60), brekkie included.</div>
<br />
<center>
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/12980709904/" title="buddha10 by nomadwifey, on Flickr"><img alt="buddha10" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3114/12980709904_cb4d6ccfe9_o.jpg" height="349" width="525" /></a></center>
<center>
The superior room's private balcony.</center>
<br />
<center>
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/12973731825/" title="buddha8 by nomadwifey, on Flickr"><img alt="buddha8" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2086/12973731825_21a442e449_o.jpg" height="349" width="525" /></a></center>
<center>
One of the three beds in the spacious family room.</center>
<center>
</center>
<div style="text-align: left;">
The family room on the ground level has two adjoining rooms with two aircon units. It also has a flat screen telly, a desk, and a balcony with deck chairs. Current price is P3,000 (US $67) + P100 (US $2.20) per head, includes brekkie.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Standard room is at P2,200 (US $50) per night. And guests could choose either queen or twin bed.</div>
<br />
<center>
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/12983357004/" title="buddha11 by nomadwifey, on Flickr"><img alt="buddha11" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3462/12983357004_2b81db0b04_o.jpg" height="348" width="525" /></a></center>
<center>
Buddha's Surf Resort's restaurant.</center>
<center>
</center>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #990000;">The Food. <b>Oooh man, the food! </b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
The restaurant's menu has a pretty wide range of food and beverages. For starters, the brekkie choices included in the room rates are tops. The Big Buddha Breakfast is enough to last me 'til mid-arvo, and the banana pancakes (the fluffy kind, not the Thai kind) are simply amazeballs. Loved their bowl of muesli too.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br />
<center>
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/12983466253/" title="buddha12 by nomadwifey, on Flickr"><img alt="buddha12" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7322/12983466253_7c3306b9e6_o.jpg" height="349" width="525" /></a></center>
<center>
Big Buddha Breakfast for the big appetite.</center>
<center>
</center>
Their mains are also smashin'! My faves are the chicken in red curry (recommended by the staff, and not as spicy as it may seem), chicken adobo, and carbonara (super duper creamy). </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br />
The resort takes pride of their Thai-themed menu. Am not a big fan of their pad thai but I fell for their chicken mango cashew salad (cause of unavailability, they added pineapple instead of mango, which surprisingly came out well).<br />
<br />
Upon request and with proper lead time, the kitchen can whip up a feast for a party.<br />
<br />
On Thursdays, local artists perform at the communal lounge area. It's open to the public and you could request for your food to be served there.<span class="st"></span> <br />
<br />
<span style="color: #990000;">Activities</span></div>
<br />
Buddha's Surf Resort is totes equipped for surfing lessons. Surfboards,
motorbikes to transport guests and their boards, and pro instructors <span class="st">— like Marlo who <b>*ahem* </b>recently rubbed elbows/boards (lol) with a rockstar. In the water.</span><br />
<br />
<center>
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/12983886795/" title="1653477_773209772707069_1412718268_n by nomadwifey, on Flickr"><img alt="1653477_773209772707069_1412718268_n" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2396/12983886795_061f16f22a_o.jpg" height="355" width="525" /></a></center>
<center>
Cause Marlo's cool like that. Photo from <a href="https://www.facebook.com/siargaosurf">Buddha's Surf Resort's Facebook fan page</a>.</center>
<br />
<center>
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/12983766375/" title="buddha13 by nomadwifey, on Flickr"><img alt="buddha13" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7377/12983766375_521165619a_o.jpg" height="342" width="525" /></a></center>
<center>
Slacklining. Where I applied most of my morning energy on. This local showed me how it's done backwards.</center>
<center>
</center>
<div style="text-align: left;">
If you're a non-surfer, there are other activities that the resort can host/arrange for you. From kite surfing to diving to fishing to kayaking to stand up paddle surfing. They also organize island hopping trips. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Won't be surprised if you'd rather 'waste time' at your balcony, sitting on a deck chair with your feet up, staring at nothing in particular. Like we did.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="st"><br /></span>
<span class="st">So will we actually spend our dibs for a resort like this? Definitely! In fact we extended our stay at our own expense </span><span class="st">— okay wait, we <b>only</b> <b>intended to</b> because the resort owner didn't let us pay for the last night as well. But yah know, the thought's there.</span><br />
<span class="st"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="st"><br /></span></div>
<b><u>Buddha’s Surf Resort </u></b><br />
<b>Catangnan, General Luna</b><br />
<b>Siargao Island, Surigao Del Norte</b><br />
<b>Philippines</b><br />
<b>Email: buddha@siargaosurf.com</b><br />
<b>
</b><b>Mobile number: +63 (0)9199 456789 (SMS only) +63 (0)9282 079631 (all calls)</b><br />
<br />
<br />
<span class="st"></span><script src="//d12vno17mo87cx.cloudfront.net/embed/rafl/cptr.js"></script>
<a href="http://www.facebook.com/sharer.php" name="fb_share" type="box_count">Share</a><a class="twitter-share-button" data-via="nomadwifey" href="https://twitter.com/share">Tweet</a>
<br />
<script src="http://static.ak.fbcdn.net/connect.php/js/FB.Share" type="text/javascript"></script><script>!function(d,s,id){var js,fjs=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];if(!d.getElementById(id)){js=d.createElement(s);js.id=id;js.src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js";fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js,fjs);}}(document,"script","twitter-wjs");</script>
<!-- Start FastWebCounter.com --><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="http://www.fastwebcounter.com/" title="Free Web Counter">This page was viewed <script src="http://fastwebcounter.com/secure.php?s=http://www.pinaytraveljunkie.com/2014/03/buddhas-surf-resort-siargao-surfs-up.html"></script> times.</a></div>
<!-- End FastWebCounter.com --> Pinay Travel Junkiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15807759614906657509noreply@blogger.com66tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6634544634679824071.post-17532937684381046142014-03-05T15:54:00.000+08:002014-03-05T16:05:09.830+08:00Win A Staycation For Two At The Linden Suites!I was up all night to get lucky. With the karaoke microphone.<br />
<br />
Midnight, the after-effects of merlot and moscato were depicted by off-beat dancing. Were heard through off-key singing.<br />
<br />
No matter how hammered, mic hoggers were on standby. <br />
<br />
There were about seventeen travel bloggers in our Linden Suites one-bedroom suite. Fifteen Filipinos, one American, and one German. They all came for an event organized by The Linden Suites' Marketing Communications Manager Michael Anthony Sagaran and Melo Villareal of <a href="http://outoftownblog.com/">outoftownblog.com</a> which I dubbed <i>"Pajama Party Wherein We Don't Wear Pajamas"</i>. <br />
<br />
<center>
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/12336981684/" title="linden3 by nomadwifey, on Flickr"><img alt="linden3" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5531/12336981684_a2e2b6c84d_o.jpg" height="346" width="525" /></a></center>
<center>
One of The Linden Suites' refurbished suites. <b>Space matters.</b></center>
<center>
<b> </b></center>
<div style="text-align: left;">
On our agenda: Eat, drink, sing. Which we all accomplished. And then some.<b> </b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
After which, we crashed in our respective suites to experience The Linden Suites' refurbished rooms. Except for one, all suites on the ninth floor were assigned to our party (slightly similar to <a href="http://www.pinaytraveljunkie.com/2014/01/the-linden-suites-ortigas-sweet-suite.html"><u>how it went down during our first staycation</u></a>). </div>
<center>
<b> </b></center>
<center>
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/12585036153/" title="linden4 by nomadwifey, on Flickr"><img alt="linden4" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7327/12585036153_ba4b7ccfc5_o.jpg" height="349" width="525" /></a></center>
<center>
A box of Frontera wine (Yes, <b>a BOX</b>!) from Fly Ace Corporation. Photo by Kirk Acebron of <a href="http://kirkanatomy.com/">kirkanatomy.com</a>.</center>
<center>
</center>
<center>
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/12938841344/" title="linden5 by nomadwifey, on Flickr"><img alt="linden5" height="349" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/8/7307/12938841344_9d5d152435_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<center>
The buffet spread. <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/CEBUS-ORIGINAL-LECHON-BELLY-the-Boneless-Lechon/320912071289867?fref=ts">Cebu’s Original Lechon Belly</a>, undoubtedly, was the star of the table.</center>
<center>
</center>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Being one of the early birds, I was able to peek into every type of refurbished suite the hotel's currently offering. Each suite boasts the same massive floor space. The same sophisticated design, but with a more modish touch. And all of the suites' rooms now got bathtubs!<br />
<br />
Just every bit ideal for a staycation.</div>
<center>
</center>
<center>
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/12939170913/" title="linden3 by nomadwifey, on Flickr"><img alt="linden3" height="340" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/8/7358/12939170913_e97ae6f865_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<center>
The rowdy crew. Pinoy travel bloggers with Kate of <a href="http://www.adventurouskate.com/">www.adventurouskate.com</a> and Sab of <a href="http://www.justonewayticket.com/">www.justonewayticket.com</a>.</center>
<center>
</center>
<div style="text-align: left;">
You could experience The Linden Suites' refurbished awesomeness also! <span class="st">Join our contest and get the chance to win </span>an overnight stay for two in a deluxe room. Includes brekkie at Mesclun.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Prize is transferable and winner must book in advance.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
Just "like" a bunch of Facebook pages, leave a comment below, and share the news to others. Let Rafflecopter lead the way.</div>
<center>
</center>
<center>
<a class="rafl" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/83489b3/" id="rc-83489b3" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a></center>
<center>
</center>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Open to Philippine residents. Contest runs from March 5, 2014 to March 26, 2014. Winner will be announced on March 27.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br />
Good luck, fellow travel junkies!<br />
<br />
<script src="//d12vno17mo87cx.cloudfront.net/embed/rafl/cptr.js"></script></div>
<a href="http://www.facebook.com/sharer.php" name="fb_share" type="box_count">Share</a><a class="twitter-share-button" data-via="nomadwifey" href="https://twitter.com/share">Tweet</a>
<br />
<script src="http://static.ak.fbcdn.net/connect.php/js/FB.Share" type="text/javascript"></script><script>!function(d,s,id){var js,fjs=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];if(!d.getElementById(id)){js=d.createElement(s);js.id=id;js.src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js";fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js,fjs);}}(document,"script","twitter-wjs");</script>
<!-- Start FastWebCounter.com --><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="http://www.fastwebcounter.com/" title="Free Web Counter">This page was viewed <script src="http://fastwebcounter.com/secure.php?s=http://www.pinaytraveljunkie.com/2014/03/win-staycation-for-two-at-linden-suites.html"></script> times.</a></div>
<!-- End FastWebCounter.com --> Pinay Travel Junkiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15807759614906657509noreply@blogger.com96tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6634544634679824071.post-19456944721269588032014-02-24T17:29:00.000+08:002014-02-24T17:32:45.976+08:00Florida: Born to EntertainIt may be hard to believe, but it’s true: Florida is more than beaches and theme parks. While Disney and other amusement parks are prominent in the tourist industry, there are many other <a href="http://www.thomson.co.uk/destinations/the-americas/united-states-of-america/florida/holidays-florida.html"><u>activities for the vacation seeker</u></a>. Florida holidays can consist of a wide range of activities. Here are five to get you started! <br />
<br />
<span style="color: #990000;">Visit The Kennedy Space Center</span><br />
<br />
Most people don’t realize that the Kennedy Space center in Titusville, Florida, has been the launch site for every U.S. manned mission into space since 1968. See for yourself with a visit to the museum and exhibits, which offers you an inside look into the space program. Interactive displays, an IMAX theater, a rocket garden, and even a flight simulator await guests.<br />
<br />
<center>
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/stignygaard/458908830/" title="Kennedy Space Center - Rocket Garden by Stig Nygaard, on Flickr"><img alt="Kennedy Space Center - Rocket Garden" height="349" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/225/458908830_c31ce1da44_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<br />
<span style="color: #990000;">See A Live Basketball Game </span><br />
<br />
The Miami Heat have been NBA champions twice and are the defending champions, they have the reigning MVP in Lebron James, and just so happen to play in their home games in downtown Miami. Watching professional basketball up close is an experience. You don’t realize how large and fast these guys are until you see the action taking place right in front of you. These guys are real athletes!<br />
<br />
<span style="color: #990000;">Explore The Everglades</span><br />
<br />
Deep in southern Florida lies a stretch of wetland that goes on for miles and miles. Its inhabitants include diverse wildlife such as alligators, crocodiles, panthers, and even some black bears for good measure. You can <a href="http://www.nps.gov/ever/index.htm"><u>experience the Everglades</u></a> in all their glory by touring it on an airboat, where you’ll coast through the water at speeds up to 60 kilometers per hour, all with the backdrop seemingly plucked out of a movie. <br />
<br />
<center>
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/texxsmith/9796422816/" title="Everglades_US41-6016 by texxsmith, on Flickr"><img alt="Everglades_US41-6016" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2841/9796422816_f416fea208_o.jpg" height="349" width="525" /></a></center>
<br />
<span style="color: #990000;">Go Fishing</span><br />
<br />
Ever catch a marlin? Do you want to? If so, you can try your luck in the waters of the Florida Keys. Here fishing is an art form, with a wide range of fish just waiting for you to reel them in. You can fly fish in waist deep water for snook, deep sea fish for a blue marlin, or just sit on one of the many piers and see what comes your way. It’s no wonder Ernest Hemingway made this paradise his home.<br />
<br />
<span style="color: #990000;">Play With A Dolphin</span><br />
<br />
In Grassy Key, there’s a 90,000 square foot area, carved out of the shoreline and it’s home to bottlenose dolphins and sea lions alike. The <a href="http://www.dolphins.org/"><u>Dolphin Research Center</u></a> was created in 1958 as a roadside attraction: today it’s one of the top dolphin research facilities in the world. Visitors can interact with the dolphins, or just watch them glide through the water, all the while learning about the majestic creatures. <br />
<br />
<br />
If you’re looking for theme parks, yeah, you’ll find them in Florida, that’s for sure. It’s also just as certain that if you’re looking for something other than theme parks to entertain you, again you’ll find it. Sport, nature, science and technology… just a few of the many options open to you in Florida. Let’s face it, with or without theme parks, Florida was born to entertain! <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<i>Images by texxsmith and Stig Nygaard, used under Creative Commons license.</i>
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.facebook.com/sharer.php" name="fb_share" type="box_count">Share</a><a class="twitter-share-button" data-via="nomadwifey" href="https://twitter.com/share">Tweet</a>
<br />
<script src="http://static.ak.fbcdn.net/connect.php/js/FB.Share" type="text/javascript"></script><script>!function(d,s,id){var js,fjs=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];if(!d.getElementById(id)){js=d.createElement(s);js.id=id;js.src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js";fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js,fjs);}}(document,"script","twitter-wjs");</script>
<!-- Start FastWebCounter.com --><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="http://www.fastwebcounter.com/" title="Free Web Counter">This page was viewed <script src="http://fastwebcounter.com/secure.php?s=http://www.pinaytraveljunkie.com/2014/02/florida-born-to-entertain.html"></script> times.</a></div>
<!-- End FastWebCounter.com --> Pinay Travel Junkiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15807759614906657509noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6634544634679824071.post-27328127525040825972014-02-15T13:36:00.000+08:002014-02-17T17:05:01.877+08:00Press Release: ‘Tara Na Sa Malaysia’ Holiday Packages Brochure LaunchTourism Malaysia marks its grandest tourism celebration, dubbed Visit Malaysia Year (VMY) 2014, with stepped up efforts to attract more visitors to this bubbling, energetic cultural melting pot filled with endless wondrous events, amazing festivals and exciting activities all year round. With its theme of “Celebrating 1Malaysia Truly Asia,” these efforts would position Malaysia as a premiere destination in Southeast Asia.<br />
<br />
Here in Manila, Tourism
Malaysia launched its campaign with the introduction of the “Tara Na Sa
Malaysia” Holiday Packages Brochure on February 14, 2014 at the 2014
PTAA Travel Tour Expo. The brochures feature special Malaysia tour
packages that have been put together with the help of valued local
travel agents from Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao. The brochures will be
inserted on major newspapers, as well as selected magazines nationwide. <br />
<br />
<center>
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/12553079315/" title="Tara Na Sa Malaysia 2 by nomadwifey, on Flickr"><img alt="Tara Na Sa Malaysia 2" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7298/12553079315_e251428526_o.jpg" height="350" width="525" /></a></center>
<center>
One of my fave creatures on Earth, the proboscis monkey! Photo by Tourism Malaysia.</center>
<center>
</center>
<div style="text-align: left;">
During the special event held at the Tourism Malaysia Booth, Senior Assistant Director of Tourism Malaysia (ASEAN Division), Mr. Mohd Akbal Setia enjoined the media and the thousands of attendees to come rediscover Malaysia and, for those who still haven’t visited the country, to finally experience its wonders for the first time. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i>"With Malaysia being one of the most accessible destinations for many Filipinos, we have created this vibrant new tourism campaign with our many wonderful partners to ensure that the figurative line that divides our two nations would remain a line drawn in sand, easily washed away by a tide of new and exciting experiences that would bind us closer as people," he said.</i></blockquote>
</div>
<center>
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/12553312875/" title="Tara Na Sa Malaysia 3 by nomadwifey, on Flickr"><img alt="Tara Na Sa Malaysia 3" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3745/12553312875_8e4de37f7a_o.jpg" height="350" width="525" /></a></center>
<center>
A crowded Tourism Malaysia booth. Photo by Tourism Malaysia. </center>
<center>
</center>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br />
At the same event, Datò Mohd Zamri Bin Mohd Kassim, Ambassador of Malaysia, Manila, reiterated the invitation with this message:</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>“There are numerous reasons tourists will find Malaysia an irresistible must-visit holiday destination. Whether it's rich and colorful multi-cultural heritage, exciting shopping malls, theme parks, fabulous food, great mountains and rivers, lush green parks and gardens, idyllic tropical islands, palm-fringed beaches or million-year-old rainforests – you can find all these attractions here in Malaysia.”</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>He added, “I believe this brochure with a thematic holiday packages is the first ever to be created,” also noting, “(It) promise tourists fun-filled time with lots of exciting activities. This is one of the many innovative holiday packages that have been created to diversify the nation’s tourism offerings.”</i><br />
<br />
<center>
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/12553656935/" title="Tara Na Sa Malaysia 5 by nomadwifey, on Flickr"><img alt="Tara Na Sa Malaysia 5" height="350" src="https://ycpi-farm8.staticflickr.com/7458/12553656935_89e33cd522_o.jpg" width="525" /></a></center>
<center>
‘Tara Na Sa Malaysia’ Holiday Packages Brochure 2014 finally unveiled! From left to right: Ms. Trecey Tojuka (Deputy Director, Tourism Malaysia-Manila), Mr. Har Man Ahmad (Trade Counselor, MATRADE Manila), H.E. Mohd Zamri Mohd Kassim (Ambassador of Malaysia-Manila), Mr. Mohd Akbal Setia (Acting Director, Tourism Malaysia-Manila), Ms. Flora Loh (Phil. Area Manager), Malaysia Airlines. Photo by Tourism Malaysia.</center>
<center>
</center>
<div style="text-align: left;">
The “Tara Na Sa Malaysia Holiday” Packages Brochure offers a range of unique packages that highlight the following destinations for the travel period of March to December 2014:</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #990000;">Kuala Lumpur:</span> Malaysia’s capital city is a bustling metropolis with unique landmarks that are instantly recognizable worldwide. Iconic skyscrapers grace the city’s skyline, co-existing with remnants of history. KL is also a melting pot of races and cultures brimming with diverse entertainment options, exciting attractions and a comprehensive transportation system.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br />
<span style="color: #990000;">Putrajaya:</span> Known as Malaysia’s administrative capital, which is also nicknamed the country’s “Intelligent Garden City.” Possessing a refreshingly different urban landscape, the city is a clever combination of nature and state-of-the-art infrastructure.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br />
<span style="color: #990000;">Malacca:</span> The birthplace of the nation’s historical and cultural heritage. Malacca has a long and illustrious past. Its remnants are well preserved and can still be seen today earning it the prestigious title of UNESCO World Heritage City in 2008. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<center>
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/12555100934/" title="malacca11 by nomadwifey, on Flickr"><img alt="malacca11" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7390/12555100934_86c437b12b_o.jpg" height="654" width="525" /></a></center>
<center>
Luna loves Malacca and cendol!</center>
<center>
</center>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #990000;">Johor: </span>Situated at the southernmost part of Peninsular Malaysia, it is the country’s southern gateway. The state is blessed with a diversity of natural attractions, which includes verdant rainforests, cascading waterfalls, thriving wetlands and beautiful tropical islands off its coasts.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br />
<span style="color: #990000;">Penang:</span> One of the World’s top holiday destinations, Penang is a delightful fusion of nature, culture and history. Home to a UNESCO World Heritage City and one of the world’s longest bridges, Penang leaves an indelible mark on each visitor, leaving them wanting more with each visit. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #990000;">Sabah:</span> Also known as “Land Below The Wind”, Sabah is made up of enchanting tropical islands, lush virgin rainforests and over 30 different ethnic communities. It is most well known for its icon, Mount Kinabalu, while its island of Sipadan is internationally recognized as one of the world’s best diving destinations.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #990000;">Lankawi:</span> This city is a part of an archipelago made up of 99 islands and is one of the country’s most popular holiday destinations. It boosts some of the region’s best natural attractions, earning it a UNESCO Global Geopark status in 2007.<br />
<br />
<center>
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadwifey/12555433533/" title="Tara Na Sa Malaysia 6 by nomadwifey, on Flickr"><img alt="Tara Na Sa Malaysia 6" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7389/12555433533_db5c84e656_o.jpg" height="350" width="525" /></a></center>
<center>
Barbie Almalbis-Honasan rockin' the stage. Sang the 'Tara Na Sa Malaysia' jingle and some of her hits. Photo by Tourism Malaysia.</center>
<center>
</center>
<div style="text-align: left;">
It also puts into focus the wide range of activities available to visitors in Malaysia from theme park visits, shopping, nightlife, gastronomic adventures, honeymoon and romantic getaways, golfing, beach, cultural immersions and many others.</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
For those planning their next travel with Malaysia in mind, the “Tara Na Sa Malaysia” Holiday Packages Brochure is the perfect guide to help them see, feel and experience Malaysia. A Truly Asian adventure begins here.</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
For more information, visit <a href="http://www.tourismmalaysia.gov.my/">www.tourismmalaysia.gov.my</a> or Like Tara Na Sa Malaysia on Facebook. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Malaysia Airlines, Philippine Airlines, PAL Express, Cebu Pacific and Air Asia Zest flies direct from Manila – Kuala Lumpur or Kota Kinabalu. For flight schedules, please refer to the links below: <a href="http://www.malaysiaairlines.com/">www.malaysiaairlines.com</a>, <a href="http://www.philippineairlines.com/">www.philippineairlines.com</a>, <a href="http://www.palexpress.com/">www.palexpress.com</a>, <a href="http://www.cebupacificair.com/">www.cebupacificair.com</a> and <a href="http://www.airasiazest.com/">www.airasiazest.com</a>.<br />
<br /></div>
</div>
<a href="http://www.facebook.com/sharer.php" name="fb_share" type="box_count">Share</a><a class="twitter-share-button" data-via="nomadwifey" href="https://twitter.com/share">Tweet</a>
<br />
<script src="http://static.ak.fbcdn.net/connect.php/js/FB.Share" type="text/javascript"></script><script>!function(d,s,id){var js,fjs=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];if(!d.getElementById(id)){js=d.createElement(s);js.id=id;js.src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js";fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js,fjs);}}(document,"script","twitter-wjs");</script>
<!-- Start FastWebCounter.com --><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="http://www.fastwebcounter.com/" title="Free Web Counter">This page was viewed <script src="http://fastwebcounter.com/secure.php?s=http://www.pinaytraveljunkie.com/2014/02/press-release-tara-na-sa.html"></script> times.</a></div>
<!-- End FastWebCounter.com --> Pinay Travel Junkiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15807759614906657509noreply@blogger.com5