Pinay Travel Junkie

Look Who Wrote On Our Lonely Planet South America On A Shoestring!

2012-01-25T07:02:00.018+08:00

It has been a couple of weeks since TACA Airlines swooped us from Mexico City, Mexico and safely delivered us to Lima, Peru. Two weeks?! We can't believe it either. Cancun still feels like yesterday, and the aftertaste of taco al pastor still lingers on our tasted buds.

We are currently shacking in the cheapest hostal we found so far this round-the-world trip in Arequipa City, a 16 to 18-hour southbound bus ride from Lima (and more than 2,000 meters above sea level). As I lay on our dingy, seemingly unwashed sheets, I flip through the pages of our Lonely Planet South America On A Shoestring in search of economico accommodations in Puno where we're heading tomorrow.

Until this day, I am overwhelmed by the fact that we are actually using it as reference. You see, the hubby gave it as a wedding present to me. I remember feeling elated when I tore off its gift wrapper and found out what it was. But, I never assumed that we will actually explore South America someday. I just thought that it is, nonetheless, an awesome addition to my pile of dust-collecting paperbacks.

"A beat-up old car, a few dollars in the pocket, and a sense of adventure." Snapshot from Lonely Planet.
I guess you could say that I am quite obsessed with Lonely Planet's story (I became so after reading the autobiography). In case you don't know yet, the founders of this company is a married couple. Tony and Maureen Wheeler did an overland Europe-Asia-Australia trip (among the countries they crossed were Iran, Afghanistan and Pakistan) for their honeymoon in 1972 to get rid of the travel bug before "settling down".

During the 1970s, as you could imagine, information was scant. After that epic trip, a light bulb moment led to the production of their very first guide, Across Asia On The Cheap (which by the way they typed and stapled themselves at that time). Its success brought forth the establishment of Lonely Planet Publishing (its name came from misheard Space Captain lyrics which should have been "lovely planet", but Tony thought it was "lonely planet"), and a second guidebook, Southeast Asia On A Shoestring. Currently, it's the largest travel guide book publisher in the world! I reckon we all know that.

"Shervin & Gay, Best wishes on your marriage and life journey together, I hope it's as colorful as Maureen's and mine had been!" - Tony Wheeler 2009.
Now let's go back to that guide book of mine. Hubby initially didn't plan to purchase that particular copy. Months prior our wedding, he contacted Lonely Planet's headquarters in Melbourne, Australia and asked for a message from either Tony or Maureen. Surprisingly they replied, and hubby was instructed to order one of the books so Tony could write a short note on it for me. South America On A Shoestring was sort of a random choice.

It was so fortunate that the staff was able to get hold of jet-setting Tony for a quick scribble. It may be a mere autograph for him, but for me, it's a lifelong inspiration.

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Thai Money Saving Tips

2012-01-23T05:40:00.005+08:00

Thailand is an incredibly cheap country to vacation in. Accommodation, food and transport costs are low, so it’s an ideal place for backpackers and travelers on a budget. From personal experience and from friends, family and fellow travelers I’ve picked up a bunch of tips that I thought I’d share to help you out whether you’re looking for cheap flights to Thailand or ways to save once you get there. And if anyone has anymore moneysaving Thailand tips to share, I’d love to hear them!

Flights

For most travelers the most expensive part of their trip is the flight, especially when you’re flying long haul. If you’re looking to book your flights and accommodation separately, aim to book your flights around 6 months before you plan to fly. This is when new tickets are released and fares are at their lowest – prices only increase at the last minute.

Another tip is to search using online flight specialists. Their fares can often be lower as they are online businesses with lower overheads so can pass these savings on to consumers. Check out companies that specialize in long haul trips like DialAFlight who are currently offering cheap flights to Thailand from London for £455 return this coming June.

From the airport

The chances are you’ll be landing at Suvarnabhumi Airport. There are a few ways to get into Bangkok from here, but the cheapest and most convenient is by taxi – just don’t join the taxi queue at arrivals! You’ll be charged a taxi surcharge and have to queue forever. A little trick is to hop up to departures on the top floor and grab a taxi that’s just dropped someone off – taa daa! No extra surcharge and no queuing in the heat.

Food

If you really want to save money in Thailand, just eat like the locals do. Local markets sell cheap local produce, and make the most of street food – you’ll find delicious, authentic Thai food from as little as 20 baht per meal.

Water

I save myself money on water by buying a large bottle and then refilling it at one of the many water machines dotted around the cities. You can refill for 6 baht – much cheaper than buying another bottle of water.

Accommodation

If you’re staying in Thailand for an extended period, by far the cheapest accommodation option is to rent an apartment rather than booking a hotel. You can get a small apartment on the outskirts of Bangkok for as little as £40 per month! As a general guide, accommodation up north is much cheaper than accommodation in Bangkok or on the islands.

Getting around

Taxis might be convenient, but if you want to save cash and live like a local you better get to know your bus routes. The Bangkok Mass Transit Authority site has everything you need to know to plan your journeys. They’re incredibly cheap and run all over – you can travel for as little as 8 baht per journey – just don’t expect air con.

Taxis are useful but can be expensive on the islands especially. If you do catch taxis, make sure the driver uses the meter rather than trying to negotiate a price – you’ll always get a better deal going by the meter, and it’s illegal for drivers to carry passengers without using one.

Language

My last tip? Learn as much Thai as possible. Speaking Thai means you’re far more likely to get the Thai price, not the western tourist price…

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Couchsurfing Walk-Through And Walkabout (or How We Landed On The Couchsurfing Video!)

2012-01-16T09:03:00.015+08:00

I stumbled upon Couchsurfing's "We're Casting!" announcement four months ago on its website while I was responding to a surfer's couch request. We were then temporarily residing (and waiting for the hubby's U.S. visa application to be approved) in an artist-owned cabin by Suffolk Park's Tallow Beach in New South Wales, Australia. I don't normally lurk around my home page, but for some reason, I did that day.

Casting Call

Because Couchsurfing's first video was (and still is) successful in promoting this awesome new way of traveling (hey, it ain't just about the accommodation), the cool folks from Couchsurfing's Headquarters thought of coming up with more videos. Two videos that will show the nitty gritty of hosting and surfing, and another that will tackle about safety.

Hence, the casting call. And a casting call like no other. With scenes to be shot in Thailand, Australia, Turkey (and I believe Kenya too), the cast will depict the diversity of the Couchsurfing population.

When I saw Australia on the short list, I was like, "Oh gosh this is miiine!"... 'Til I got to the part that says "We'll get in touch if we think you're a good fit for the project.". And then I went "Ugh!". I tried my luck anyway and filled out the questionnaire

One question goes, "Why should you be in a CouchSurfing video? (Tell us what makes you awesome! This is an opportunity to shine so don't be shy about why you would be great in one of these videos)". Unsure of how to sell myself, I merely answered "I've couchsurfed single, married, pregnant and now I'm couchsurfing with my toddler."

An email arrived the next day from coordinator Heather saying they're interested! A Skype interview (by Heather herself and the director Justin) followed weeks after and the rest I guess is err, history.

Like Reality TV Stars

On shooting day, the crew arrived at my in-law's house 8:30 AM on the dot. Though they started setting up early, the actual interview began around midday and lasted for about an hour because of technical issues. In case you missed it, I just mentioned that I had an hour-long interview! Yep, that's how exhausting production can be.

Cameron, the camera guy, asking for a curtain to filter the intense sunlight.
The camera followed us around the house as if we were reality TV stars (I expected extreme close up shots, that why I uhm, cut my own bangs to cover ze zits!). It's one of the creepiest things I've experienced in like, my whole life (I was on a variety show ages ago, but yah know, the scripted kind).

Australian Walkabout Wildlife Park. They let us stroke a koala!
After the interview, we all rushed to the Australian Walkabout Wildlife Park to meet other Couchsurfers who patiently waited for us. We were almost three hours late. The events shown on the videos weren't staged. They're all real experiences. It ain't seen on any of the two videos, but the Couchsurfers we did a day trip with, we actually just met for the first time.

With Pinky, the audio tech. It's a wrap!
Several others were also interviewed while we made the most out of our free admission to the park where visitors could walk alongside emus and watch free range kangaroos (yes, their meat is for legal consumption) hop. I saw a Tasmanian devil and a dingo for the first time, and touched a koala for the first time as well! About 5-ish we had to unfortunately "pack up" for the park was about to close.

And then, we waited for a couple of months to view the outcome.

The Final Product

There's just so much heart poured into this project that's why the videos radiate with positive vibes. We only have good things to say about this hospitality network and we hope we're able to convince you to join. Play the three videos so you'll have an idea of what I've been chattering about!

What we love about hosting.
Why we think Couchsurfing's safe.
Give it a go! Here's a quickie walk-through from us.
Visit their website www.couchsurfing.org if you wanna know more and well, sign up!
"Open your mind. Open your home. Open the world." - Couchsurfing

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The Great Call Of China

2012-01-14T22:37:00.008+08:00

Our calling came two years ago. Visuals of a snaking wall on a mountain, a "bird's nest" made of steel, a humongous portrait of a man seemingly watching over a city square, and snow - lots of snow, floated in our dreamy heads.

We took heed. Even if we're total Cheimaphobics. We arrived as honeymooners during winter, determined to conquer the cold. And then some. And we left with more than enough vivid, fond memories that could beckon us again someday. Memories that shall last a lifetime (Unbeknownst to us then, we also left with a microscopic souvenir. Like, the embryo kind.).

The itinerary I vaguely planned for our China holidays that took us from Hong Kong to Beijing to Xian and to Guangzhou in a span of eight days, was without a doubt crammed. Especially we had to travel more or less twenty hours from one city to the next via sleeper trains. If for some reason you're coincidentally doing the same insane route (I highly recommend you don't, unless you got more time in your hands.), here are some sites you could also ambitiously squeeze in such time frame - narrowed down to eight cause it's a err, lucky Chinese number.

1. The Great Wall in Badaling (Yanqing County, Beijing). The most visited of all walls, hence, the most crowded. The easiest to get to though if you're not in a tour group.

2. Tiananmen Square, Beijing. On this photo, is the iconic Tiananmen Gate which separates the square and the Forbidden City. It is the third largest city square in the world.

3. Beijing National Stadium, popularly known as the "Bird's Nest" (Olympic Green, Beijing). Can be reached via MTR. There's an admission fee to get in, but taking snapshots from outside is definitely free.

4. Visit the Beijing National Aquatics Center or the "Water Cube" while you're in the Olympic Green and do the mandatory jump shot. Okay, the mandatory part is fiction.

5. Forbidden City, Beijing. Not really a city, but a royal complex. The largest one in the world. Named so because commoners were forbidden to enter its premises during the time when emperors used the complex as their abode.

6. Great Mosque, Xian. Xian is the eastern terminus of the Silk Road. Hence the evident Islam influence in the region. This mosque was built using Chinese architectural style instead of Middle Eastern. An interesting mix of different cultures.

7. Terracotta Army, Xian. Mesmerizing funerary art. Thousands of terracotta warriors and horses eerily stand guard. An archaeological site I dreamed of visiting since I saw it featured in uhm, National Geographic.

8. Museum of the Mausoleum of the Nanyue King, Guangzhou. The silk and jade burial suit of King Zhao Mo (the owner of the tomb) is one of the museum's highlights, along with the actual tomb's chambers where visitors can walk through.

Has the great call of China reached you too?

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200 RTW Days: Altered Plans And Jotted Notes

2012-01-08T09:29:00.000+08:00

“Certainly, travel is more than the seeing of sights; it is a change that goes on, deep and permanent, in the ideas of living.” ~ Miriam Beard
Two hundred days. That's past the halfway mark of our round-the-world vagabonding. Our country counter flashes the number three. Four and a half months in Australia, a month in U.S.A., and almost a month in Mexico where we are currently in. This exhibits the slowest of our slow travels, yet with such period, we barely scratched the surface of each country (I mean, c'mon, these three countries are ginormous!).

Chronicles shall come your way soon. Pinky swear.

And we're still smiling.
Mapping It Out

Our initial, ideal plan was to visit at least one or two countries on each continent except Antarctica (Cause yah know, we ain't got the dough for that. Yet. Ahem, optimism please.). And we agreed to select the specific countries as the trip progressed.

It was during our first week in Mexico that we decided to stash Europe on the shelf. For one, I began tailoring our world trail with that pesky thing called visa in mind. Visa free countries became our priority. So instead of spending our first week in Mexico touring the Romanian Embassy, I scheduled a handful of sightseeing day trips around the ciudad instead. Another reason why we're skipping this continent is, well, it will simply blow our budget. I guess our holidays to gran canaria would have to wait.

So where do we go from here? In a couple of days we're flying out of Mexico and into South America, then hopefully we set foot in Africa around February or March which shall be my sixth continent. The hubby's too, and our daughter Luna's fifth. We'll be back in Asia in May, but won't be around the Southeast Asia region until late July.

Notes On Nomadism

The world is our classroom. Our firsthand experiences are our teachers. Sometimes the strangers we meet, sometimes that local guide randomly assigned to us by a tour operator. And unlike in schools and universities, we won't have a graduation. No one will hand us a diploma at the end of this global schooling because it's a course that won't ever end. Heck, there's no grading system whatsoever to begin with! Cause it ain't like you land on the honor roll for topping the "been there done that" thing.

Okay, I was trying to come up with our trip stats for our 200 RTW Days reportage when these thoughts rolled in my head. I ditched the tallying because it dawned on me that, yah know, they're merely numbers. At this stage, all that matters to us are the awesome experiences and the lessons that we've learned during our 200 days of nomadism.

And we shall keep learning. Because it is, as darn cliche as it may sound, is a continuous process. Our family vagabonding made my husband and I know each other through and through. Equally important, we've discovered and are still discovering more about our own selves than ever before. Our trip also lets us literally watch our daughter grow right before our eyes, because there's no relative or nanny around to take her every now and then. So yeah, we know her from top to toe as well. Anyhoo, these stuff are like, all about us... Wait 'til I start talking about what we've learned regarding other cultures! But of course, that's saved for another post. Several posts, actually.

Every waking day, our long term goals in life become clearer. If you're part of our err, cult following, you're probably aware of how we despise setting long term goals because we live in the now. I reckon it's about time to plan. But hey, don't expect a purchased house when this whole shindig is over. It ain't anything like that. Not even close.

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Jade Guesthouse, Mexico City

2012-01-06T00:11:00.009+08:00

Its streets boast of impressive century-old mansions. Some beautifully restored, some in a state of partial ruins. Almost every five yards there's a sari-sari store (what we call a small family owned convenience store in the Philippines) and a taqueria. In a few areas, even a pub. And occasionally a smooching couple in a corner.

Colonia Santa María la Ribera, a colonia (Mexican neighborhood) that was initially set up for rich families in the late 19th century, is where the humble Jade Guesthouse sits. One of the cheapest accommodations this side of town, but perhaps the most charming of all (and I say perhaps because we've never checked in other guesthouses within the area).

Jade Guesthouse's courtyard, just in front of our room. Luna, peekaboo!
This guesthouse owned by a French family offers only a couple of rooms. One on the ground level, and another on the second, in a building separate from the family's house. A set up that provides guests utmost privacy. A set up that can easily make anyone feel like a resident, not just a traveler. That is, if your home doesn't have a telly as well.

Our charming habitación with a very inviting cama.
Our room's basic, yet tastefully embellished with beautiful local tiles and drapes bunched up with shell-adorned ropes. There's a comfy double bed, a table and a chair, and a couple of shelves in the corner for our luggage. The bathroom may be eating up a fourth of the floor area, but because its facade does not have a wall (only drapes conceal the guests as they do the deed), the room does not feel too itsy-bitsy.

A bathroom that uhm, lacks a wall. I love the tiled vanity cabinet, and the vintage bañera.
The M$350 rate (M$330 on weekdays) does not include brekkie, however a full kitchen on the rooftop can be used by the guests. On the six days of our stay, I was on the stove every single day to cook my potful of rice and prepare for our traveling toddler's meal. We loved whiling our late mornings on that rooftop (as opposed to the courtyard) for it was the only part of the property where we were able to soak up the winter sun.

The kitchen on the rooftop.
We immensely enjoyed their dependable internet connection (which we always need for our online jobs), and we're pleased with the free purified water that I used a lot of for concocting bottles and bottles of milk formula. Our room was tidied daily, and the linens were changed after the first three nights. Fresh towels were provided everyday too, plus shampoo and liquid bath soap in cutesy glass bottles.

Crepes, omelette, fried beans and freshly baked bread for brekkie. A gift (which can also be ordered for M$50 on weekends) from the owners for our almost week-long stay.
Above all these, we're thankful for the endearing owners who hosted us like their long-lost relatives. Who sent us all the basic information we needed, and more, upon booking online. Who let us leave one of our bags in their home while we explore the other states. The wife, during our session of hanging laundered clothes on the rooftop, told me that she and her husband (their two kids too) lived in the Philippines for years. She worked for one of the biggest call centers in the country. Her hubby, who was actually born in the Philippines (I chuckled when she randomly mentioned that his first word's pusa, cat in Tagalog) managed a famous upscale salon in Makati City.

The absence of a signage adds a homey vibe to the guesthouse.
They loved the Philippines, but couldn't reside there as unemployed aliens when they quit their jobs. And that's why folks, the family ended up in Mexico, where foreigner-related policies aren't complicated. They sorta gave us this wild idea of living here someday too. But uhm, that's too wild of an idea.

The only thing the guesthouse lacks which I reckon is worth mentioning, is a room heater for the guests to use in winter. And I tell you, it could get dang cold inside the rooms, for these rooms were designed to be a refuge from sizzling Mexican summers. But hey, this won't keep us from coming back. In fact, we'll be checking in Jade Guesthouse once again just before we fly out of the country in four days!

How to get there from the airport:

1. By Metro: Terminal Aérea Metro Station on Line 5 serves Mexico City's International Airport. You need to change lines twice to get to Line 2. Alight at San Cosme Station, and from there it's a 20 minute walk to the guesthouse. 30 or more if you're carrying a heavy backpack. Fare's M$3.

2. By cab: Just outside the airport's arrival exit, there's a row of booths of legit taxi operators. M$170 for the 30-minute ride to the guesthouse. Cab driver tip, optional.

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A Trip to a Vanishing World

2012-01-04T07:03:00.005+08:00

A guest post by Nahoma Beniga Maentz. Pinay Travel Junkie's very first. This article tells the story of how the Katutubong Filipino Project was born. A must read, and a must spread. Images captured by her husband Jacob Maentz.

Divilacan, Isabela. This part of the Philippines, so beautifully raw in its remoteness, is where I had my first (and hopefully not last) sincere encounter of this country’s first inhabitants. I have had several brushes with indigenous people before in my parent’s birthplace of Surigao, but I was naive and quite indifferent back then. Partly because of my age. I was young and couldn’t have cared less with what was happening around me. Also because no one really properly explained the indigenous peoples existence to me. In short, my idea was that they did not belong, that they lived in the mountains and wore nothing but g-strings. For someone who didn’t know any better, that picture in my mind of almost naked men and women conjure an image of a crazy group of people. The way they were treated by the “civilized” group did not help either.

I carried that thought with me for a long time until this journey to Isabela took shape. My husband Jacob, a former Peace Corps volunteer assigned in Palawan and now a full-time photographer has always shown interest in covering indigenous people. When he proposed the idea of traveling to one of the most remote parts of the country in the hopes of working with a native tribe I had my hesitations. I had thought such groups did not exist anymore. Not necessarily physically non-existent but that they have lost their so to speak “indigenousness.” The Mamanwas in Surigao have been heavily influenced by the large mining companies surrounding them. They have learned to ask for money. They have learned to love money. Even when you approach them and politely ask if you could take their portraits, they will ask for money. Everything now has a price tag for them.

Good thing he was relentless in telling me how much he needed me there (to perform various tasks – as interpreter, organizer, luggage carrier, etc.). Boy, am I glad I went else I would have missed so much relearning who I truly am. A Filipino. The Filipino. And I saw an abundance of that in these Dumagats and Agtas that we met and later befriended. Everything is still fresh in my memory up to this day – the loveliness of the people, the simplicity of life, nature and man supporting each other, depending on each other. Money has little or no value at all. It took me back to a world hundreds of years ago and at the same time, took me back inwards. I only have to think of them and I get my jolt of inspiration when I need it.

I have always been a proud citizen of this country despite the negative images oftentimes portrayed by fellow citizens. That one particular trip however, made me even prouder. Because I have found my roots. As authentic as it can ever get. And it is a beautiful culture, a beautiful world.Unfortunately, a constant threat is hovering over these people and their land, and time may come when everything about them and their way of life will change. Big businesses, always on the look-out for more resources can barge in at any time. Likewise, if the Dumagats or Agtas wanted a ‘better life’ outside of their place, they would have long been gone. But they are there simply because they want to remain there. That is their land. That is their way of life. This very idea of ‘modernizing’ them breaks my heart. If and when that happens, what I’ve seen and come to love will surely vanish. No doubt, I will also lose a huge chunk of myself.

With such thoughts on our minds upon returning home, Jacob and I came up with an idea to bring about awareness to these cultures. We know that not everyone is familiar of them and their existence. It is a very modern world we live in, but we believe that this project can greatly benefit us, our children and our children’s children. That through photographs, we may always have something to look back with regards to our heritages. With pride.
May it never be lost.

You can read more about the Katutubong Filipino Project that we have initiated at www.katutuboproject.org. We also need help in spreading the word about our Kickstarter campaign which is helping to raise funds for the Katutubong Filipino Project. Please take some time to watch our video and help us spread the word: http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/869942434/katutubong-filipino-project-vanishing-indigenous-c

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Próspero Año Nuevo

2012-01-01T00:52:00.008+08:00

I assumed that the faint knock on our slightly ajar door was from the housekeeping lady. It was a man's voice I heard however, and he only spoke Spanish to Shervin. I was able to make out a few words which included "señor" and "comida". The mere mention of comida, the Spanish word for lunch and also food, made me jump off the bed.

The invitation was timely. We were just about to head out for a meal.

The owner did not speak a single English word. While Shervin could only say gracias.
The owner of Hotel Regional in Palenque led us to a long table temporarily set up at the hall just across our room. He asked Shervin and me to sit while he served us a meal of chicken and (to my delight) rice. He and his wife laid food portions for the other people as well, who I mostly recognized as the hostel staff. Such kind gesture to serve the workers who serve them.

Top: Dessert #2, a whole peach swimming in what seems to be unsweetened condensed milk. Left: Chicken dish that resembles the Filipino afritada Right: Dessert #1, a moist flan-ish cake.
Like in my home country Philippines, a prayer was a prelude to our home-cooked feast. The comida was fantastic, though could have been more wonderful had there been actual conversations as opposed to an exchange of lone words such as:

Shervin: Familia (pertaining to the group)?
Owner: Trabajo.

We excused ourselves with our sincerest muchas gracias when the chatter dropped its merriness and picked up a business tone.

Win these! Left: Shot glass from Puebla, Puebla. Beside it is our New Year eve drink, a cappuccino-flavored mezcal. Right: Leather bookmark from Palenque, Chipas. Pardon me, but I just gotta show one of the fake nails I bought here. First time I ever wore those stick-ons and I feel like a cougar in a Mexican telenovela.
Six hours later, we had dinner at Lonely Planet recommended Mara's (which didn't disappoint) and went back straight to our hostel after. We decided to spend the last night of the year low-key. It's an hour into 2012 right now and I could still hear the noise of the owner's family celebrating the New Year from the hall. Though I'm slightly tempted to take a peek at their shindig, I chose to stay in bed and do some blonking (blogging while drinking). Beside my slumbering Luna. And my husband who's watching a Naruto episode.

An epic ender for 2011, I must say.

And oh, 2012 kicks off awesomely with a giveaway! I got a shot glass and a leather bookmark (yah know, lightweight stuff I could easily carry around a few more countries before flying back home) up for grabs. Joining is uber easy! Simply post your fave Pinay Travel Junkie 2011 blog post's title and URL on your wall. Don't forget to tag Pinay Travel Junkie so I'd be notified of your entry.

Nope, it doesn't have to be verbatim.
Luna will pick the winner via rolled up bits of paper with the contestants' names. We're old school like that. Note: Prizes will be sent when we've arrived in the Philippines (yes, contest open to Philippine residents only) after our trip, roughly half a year from now. If for some reason your prize gets lost/stolen/destroyed, I'll search for another cool souvenir from some other country as replacement. Winners will be announced on January 15.

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Photo Essay: The Venetian and City of Dreams, Macau

2011-12-27T08:25:00.005+08:00

It's "the most wonderful time of the year" and we're miles away from home. Christmas in Oaxaca City, Mexico sort of resembles that of the Philippines'. Unfortunately, instead of getting rid of this nasty thing called homesickness, the merry atmosphere on the eve of the 24th aggravated it further more. Watching families stroll together around the zocalo made me miss my family so much... The feeling now actually hurts.

What I miss most, their smiles.
I find browsing through our Macau trip photos therapeutic, that's why despite the holiday fever, I had the drive to resume my Meet My Backpacking Folks Series. Remember the day when we transferred from century-Old SanVa Hospederia to the more swanky Pousada De Coloane Beach Hotel? Well, we resisted the urge to swim in a deep sea of blankets and everyone quickly took turns in the shower (cause SanVa Hospederia's bathrooms made us cringe, none of us bothered to do so when we arrived in Macau the night before).

At about 4:00 in the afternoon, after much barking at everybody like some military officer reminding his soldiers of their schedule, we finally headed out.

The whole gang waiting for the bus.
A long walk from the bus stop to The Venetian's main entrance. Mum all sweaty, can be seen here removing her cardigan. Modelesque. Turned this pavement into a catwalk.
The folks marveled at every eye-catching design, and there were uhm, tons!
Gambling ain't for you? How about shopping? Neither of the two attracted us, but a quick walk by the Grand Canal was pretty entertaining.
According to Wikipedia, "The Venetian also boasts the largest number of Filipino gondoleers in the world". K! Sorry, did I miss the punchline?
Cotai Strip's skyline.
About to cross the street toward the City of Dreams.
Inside the City of Dreams' 360° Bubble Theatre.
The Dragon's Treasure (what we came here for) is a 10-minute visual treat. Mom just kept saying "Wow!".
Capped off the night with a dinner at the City of Dreams' food court. I sooo dig this funky ceiling!
Thankfully our first whole day in Macau went by without much bickering between ~~me and my mom~~ family members. This was what the family needed at that time, a breather. A break from stress brought about by conventional routine. Oh how I wish they are with us right now, routineless too.

Macau Series: Meet My Backpacking Folks

Meet My Backpacking Folks
Century-Old SanVa Hospederia
Largo Do Senado: And The Family Chaos Continues
Review: Pousada De Coloane Beach Hotel

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Snapshot Saturday: Feliz Navidad

2011-12-25T13:31:00.005+08:00

Oaxaca City's zócalo is bustling tonight, and we joined the merrymaking for a short while. We watched marching bands, folk dancers, a capoeira exhibition, and a spectacular light (projected on the cathedral's facade!) and sound show at the main plaza. Some spectators, on the other hand, watched Luna dancing on her daddy's shoulders instead.

I also got what I wanted for Noche Buena. A meal with rice!

Maligayang Pasko Pilipinas kong mahal.

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Random 11 of 2011

2011-12-19T14:14:00.021+08:00

2011's a year of fulfilling dreams: Living in Baguio, visiting India, backpacking with my parents, flying our daughter overseas for the first time, and finally kicking off our round-the-world vagabonding. Each waking day, I am thankful that everything's falling into place and we never take this opportunity for granted. The hubby and I strive hard in keeping our online jobs so as to continue this unconventional nomadic lifestyle... Until we get tired of it.

There's really nothing more I could ask for right now. Okay, except pinakbet for Noche Buena.

I've been to five countries plus one SAR this year, and here are eleven random travel moments off the top of my head (because it's a gargantuan task to select which trips to categorize under "The Best Of"):

1. Mt. Cabuyao hike, Benguet. An easy, breezy day hike with my mounaineeresque friends. My first after giving birth four months prior.

2. Being part of SEAir's Winter Batanes Tour. It gave me the chance to not only revisit Batanes but also to meet a wacky bunch of bloggers: James, Izah, Leon, Mike, Bless, and Batanes maven Engr. Joseph Dy (thanks Engr. for this photo!).

3. Eating Indian food in India. One of my fave cuisines everrr.

4. I was sorta forced to attend the Panagbenga Festival. I actually thought it was just going to be some chaotic parade, but hey, it was beautifully chaotic.

5. Took my geologist sis-in-law (who lives in Australia) to Mt. Pinatubo. For her, it was a dream trek come true.

6. Entering Dambulla Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site (that dates back to the 1st century BC) in Sri Lanka.

7. Brought the whole family to Macau. It was my parents' first time to travel overseas. Luna's too.

8. My application for a U.S.A. visa was unexpectedly approved. Luna and I tagged along the hubby's business trip in California (sponsored by the company). We managed to squeeze a few sightseeing jaunts, such as our accidental visit in San Simeon where we saw elephant seals in their natural habitat.

9. Spent my 31st birthday hiking at Greater Blue Mountains, Australia.

10. Flew back to California and stayed for a month for the hubby's work. We braved the winter cold in San Francisco for an Alcatraz tour.

11. Climbed up Piramide de la Luna with our little Luna in Teotihuacan, and watched Aztec dancers stomp along the Avenue of the Dead while the sun slowly dipped. Surreal. We'll be here in Mexico for Christmas and New Year's eve as well.

To describe 2011 as awesome, is such an understatement... I raise my jigger of mezcal to more adventures mi amigos. I am sooo ready for you 2012! Salud!

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Snapshot Saturday: Postcard #11 Golden Gate Bridge

2011-12-17T10:31:00.003+08:00

Golden Gate Bridge at Sunrise.
Ola! It's day 179 of our our round-the-world trip, and almost a week since we arrived in Ciudad De Mexico's Distrito Federal. Unfortunately we were only able to see a few of its sights due to work. Tomorrow, we pack our bags and head to the Historic Centre of Puebla to celebrate our daughter's fifteenth month on Earth.

Golden Gate Bridge in Fog seen from another angle.
I got a bunch of postcards to send next week to some of you guys! For now though let me show you the last postcard I mailed before we left California. It's the first (and maybe only) postcard I'm giving away that used lenticular printing technology. Yah know, that awesome kind of printing that makes you see different images from different angles.

Cool, eh?

It's not too late to join! Email your address to gaye.emami@yahoo.com to receive a postcard. Recipients are chosen via Random.org.

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Ola Mexico!

2011-12-12T09:07:00.013+08:00

The rhythmic clickety-clack produced by man heels (you read that right!) faintly echoed across the peculiarly peaceful San Francisco International Airport at nine in the evening. It was most audible at our check-in line for Aero Mexico, where Mexicanos donning multihued snakeskin boots, leather jackets and cowboy hats turned our queue into a rodeo catwalk.

Noticeably less baggage compared to the stuff we brought from Philippines to Australia when we started our RTW.
We checked in four hours early for our flight. I made sure we had enough time for we almost didn't make it to our last one (Sydney-San Francisco). And yah know, sprinting with two carry ons, a stroller, a car infant seat and a heavy tot who still couldn't walk (let alone run) to the boarding gate is like a more brutal version of a baton relay which I ain't a fan of.

After our last Chinese meal of orange chicken and fried noodles (perhaps for a long time) at the food court we ambled to Gate A5. Our Boeing 737 bound for Ciudad De Mexico taxied on the dot, and soon enough we bid farewell to California's winter.

Not included in our itinerary. Bought this postcard anyway for someone it reminded me of.
At cruising altitude, the captain went through his usual spiel and informed the passengers of the plane's estimated arrival in three hours and forty minutes. Which didn't happen. Because of the city's dense fog at dawn, the pilots were forced to land in Guadalajara and standby for further instructions.

Hovering above Ciudad De Mexico. I leaned over the Korean guy who took my window seat without permission for this photo. He awoke shocked.
For almost half an hour, we waited in the plane until the airport's immigration officials decided to stamp us in ~~to give us something to do~~. The transfer was a total chaos cause the ground staff didn't know what was happening. Sleepless me was throwing a tantrum but was back in high spirits when the immigration asked "Where do you live, Australia or Pilipinas?". Pilipinas never sounded so good.

He stamped my passport and said "That's it". After 173 days, we officially stepped on our third country for this trip. On our way to yet another boarding gate after collecting our luggage and checking in (again!), I grabbed a Guadalajara postcard for the awesome Ada Lajara of Adaphobic.

Luna's waking up-to-a-new-country face.
In fifty more minutes we arrived at our destination. We rode a taxi playing Rick Astley's Together Forever, got stuck in traffic because of a procession for La Virgen de Guadalupe (The Virgin Of Guadalupe), and finally settled in an 18th century house.

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Snapshot Saturday: Postcard #10 Muir Woods National Monument

2011-12-03T02:54:00.000+08:00

It's day 166 of our round-the-world trip, and our last weekend in California. Though it's a fairly chilly afternoon, we drove to Muir Woods National Monument in Marin County, a primeval forest named after naturalist John Muir. The average age of this forest's resident redwoods are 500-800 years old. The oldest is about 1,200 years old and the tallest is 79 meters. Not for nothing are these trees called giant redwoods.

Random trivia: Some scenes of the film "Rise Of The Planet Of The Apes" were shot here.

It's not too late to join! Email your address to gaye.emami@yahoo.com to receive a postcard. Recipients are chosen via Random.org.

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Hollywood Boulevard: A Trail Of Stars

2011-11-29T06:51:00.008+08:00

My eyes wandered off to the glitzy signs.

"Pass me a pair of stilettos please!", I wanted to call out to the Shoe Gods. Preferably the ones Beyonce wore in her "Crazy In Love" music video. Cause yah know, a pair of hot heels befits a sashay on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Not my tattered flip flops.

Beware of the force that envelopes the backpacking mum!
It was our last day in Los Angeles, about six months ago. I felt it was apt to cap off our ten-day California visit with a Hollywood tour, even if it meant looking like a family of unkempt hippies in the midst of Glamourville. Okay, that's quite an exaggeration for I counted a bunch of pedestrians shabbier than us.

If you're fond of getting dolled up, you know what I mean.

As of November 8 this year, the Walk Of Fame consists of 2,454 stars (Wikipedia). Erm, that's tons!
From our parked car on Vine Street, we strolled northbound following a trail
of stars toward Hollywood Boulevard. At the intersection of the two streets, not a star but a moon greeted us. It bears the names Neil Armstrong, Edwin E. Aldrin Jr. and Michael Collins of the Apollo XI Mission.

Someday, she shall have her own star.
Aside from souvenir shops, we weren't looking for anything particular. As soon as we turned to Hollywood Boulevard, random people approached us offering free admission to be an audience of a so and so show. And to my horror, Shrek popped out of nowhere and offered to pose with me for a photo. You see, for some strange reason, I'm a Shrekophobic. I immediately cringe upon the sight of this ogre. I dashed away from the bewildered Shrek (did he just mumble "What's your problem lady?!") to the amusement of my hubby who's totally familiar with my peculiar phobia.

Shrek, leave me alone.
We stumbled upon several other characters: Mrs. Incredible, Spiderman, and Catwoman who looked like she was working the streets (yah know, the dirty kind) whenever she inserts cash in her bag whilst chewing a gum. We only asked Darth Vader and his Stormtrooper BFF for a photo. Before snapping shots, Darth said they uhm, ask for tips. He also asked where we're from. When we replied "The Philippines", Darth excitedly confessed "I love adobo and pancit!".

He reminded me of the Mexican I met at Santa Monica Pier who loves these Pinoy dishes as well.

Kodak Theatre sits on a spot where historic Hollywood Hotel once stood.
Though a photo with these Star Wars characters is already an awesome souvenir, I still purchased a few knickknacks, from the usual fridge magnet and jigger to the more pricey shirts. After shopping, we agreed to call it a day since the parking meter was counting down our minutes (we also had to return the car that the hubby's employer hired for us).

Back to our commuter selves, after returning a hired car.
I sulked when we passed the Kodak Theatre on the way back to our car for I was not able to watch the American Idol finals (yes I could be tacky sometimes) live the weekend before. I honestly thought the universe allowed me to be whisked to California for such purpose. But ugh, I wasn't able to score tickets for no one could babysit Luna.

Anyhoo, better luck next season. And let me tell you this, when I return... I shall be catwalking in them killer stilettos.

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Snapshot Saturday: Postcard #9 Alcatraz Island, San Francisco

2011-11-26T04:49:00.005+08:00

It's day 158 of our round-the-world trip and our third weekend in Santa Clara, California. Today's postcard is from Alcatraz also known as "The Rock", an island on San Francisco Bay that was once used as a fort and a prison (which once held the infamous Al Capone).

It is now a National Historic Landmark.

It's not too late to join! Email your address to gaye.emami@yahoo.com. Recipients are chosen via Random.org.

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Review: Pousada de Coloane Beach Hotel, Macau

2011-11-22T06:00:00.011+08:00

Our folks' horrible night was over. My daughter's harrowing day on the other hand, had just begun. The whole gang was in high spirits when we checked out of Sanva Hospederia, a century-old rundown hostel where we stayed overnight. The shabby rooms left most of us sleepless, and its resident mosquitoes marked our then seven-month old daughter Luna with nasty bites.

We were looking forward to finally moving in a semi-swanky accommodation, something my parents and our backpacking infant truly deserve.

View of Cheoc-Van Beach from the hotel's open terrace garden.
My sister hailed a cab along Avenida De Almedia Ribeiro, a couple of blocks from Sanva Hospederia. Only she and our parents with Luna in tow hopped in, for cabs in Macau allow a maximum of four passengers at a time. And instead of taking another cab, hubby and I walked to the bus stop near Grand Lisboa Hotel.

Mum gaily waving from their room's balcony.
Bus 21A whisked us out of the bustling Macau Peninsula and to the almost-southernmost point of sleepy Coloane Island. The driver, who didn't speak a single English word, gestured for us to alight at a deserted stop after we showed him the hotel's name in Chinese on a piece of paper. We shuffled to and fro the street, in search of the hotel. It took us about five minutes to spot a teeny weeny sign and a staircase heading downhill, partially hidden by dense foliage.

Standard room with twin beds for 750 MOP (exclusive of service charge and tax).
The pool lies at the foot of the stairs. I found my father sitting on a lounge chair, lazily watching a couple of guests swimming despite the chilly climate. He rose when he saw us emerge from the bushy rear access and led the way to the front desk where my mom and sister were waiting.

A private jacuzzi in each room.
The marketing officer I had been corresponding with regarding our reservation via email is Filipino. He swiftly processed our check in and handed us the keys. The bellman, another fellow Filipino, assisted us to our rooms. The whole family was awestruck as the doors unveiled beautifully furnished Portuguese-style interiors.

The hotel's restaurant which serves awesome, authentic Portuguese meals.
Four-star Pousada de Coloane Beach Hotel has only two types of rooms: The standard room which has twin beds, and the superior room which has a king size bed. Each of the hotel's 30 rooms has a jacuzzi and private balcony overlooking Cheoc-Van Beach. Such features made me choose this particular hotel. The rate of a standard room is 862.50 MOP, inclusive of service charge and tax (230 MOP per additional head, service charge and tax included).

Open terrace adjacent to the hotel restaurant that has an unobstructed view of Cheoc-Van Beach.
We booked one room for two nights for my parents and sister, but only one night for me and the hubby (uhm, we slept at cheapo Sanva Hospederia again for our last night in Macau). 2,587 MOP is a hefty price which we shelled out the first time for accommodation (our post-wedding honeymoon suite cost only half of the standard room rate), but we never regretted such expense... Especially after seeing the sheer mirth in my folks eyes as they laid on their beds. Priceless.

Unfortunately, we didn't have time to idle. We're heading out that afternoon to see The Venetian and City of Dreams. So yeah, I had to drag my dreamy parents out of the plush sheets.

Macau Series: Meet My Backpacking Folks

Meet My Backpacking Folks
Century-Old SanVa Hospederia
Largo Do Senado: And The Family Chaos Continues

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Snapshot Saturday: The Golden Gate Bridge

2011-11-19T05:26:00.005+08:00

Is not golden at all. Not even a mere speck. The Golden Gate Bridge is in fact splashed with the hue of international orange, a shade of orange used in engineering and the aerospace industry to make something stand out from its surroundings. This 1.7 mile-long suspension bridge is named so for it's built over the Golden Gate, a strait that links San Francisco Bay to the Pacific Ocean.

Last Saturday, we had the chance to cruise along the bridge when we took our traveling toddler to Bay Kids Museum in Sausalito. Northbound is toll free, while southbound cost us $6. The east sidewalk is open to pedestrians all year round. Creepy fact: The Golden Gate Bridge is the most popular place to commit suicide in the world (second is Japan's Aokigahara Forest).

San Francisco will celebrate the bridge's 75th anniversary next year, if you're visiting the city check out their website for events.

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Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka: Ruins Of An Ancient Capital

2011-11-17T12:32:00.007+08:00

Not as grandiose as Angkor Wat. Then again it's not a temple complex, but an ancient Sinhalese capital. So ancient in fact, that it is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities on the planet.

Anuradhapura's underrated charm does not lure tons of flip-flopping, shindig-seeking gap packers. Instead, it beckons busloads of retirees and a handful of travelers whose idea of adventure may not necessarily include beer tasting around the world. Seven months ago, as new parents craving for tranquility, we belonged to the latter mob.

Rough Ride

A trustworthy tuktuk driver picked us up from our Couchsurfing host's home in Kandy early morn and drove us to the bus terminal. The driver directed us to an air conditioned mini bus bound for Anuradhapura, which spared us from dealing with touts. We bought a bunch of samosas with mystery fillings for brekkie before hopping aboard. The bus was packed in a matter of minutes, and we rolled out of the frenetic terminal in no time.

Though the bus was full, the driver kept picking up passengers until we were sardine-packed. If you ain't claustrophobic, this bus can easily turn you into one. I pity the standing passengers who had nothing to cling onto. They toppled like dominoes on the aisle whenever the driver hits the brakes or does a daredevilesque overtaking stunt. This went on for three hours. I feared not only for our lives but also for the life of an infant on board. We were relieved Luna didn't join us for this trip.

Guide Named Wimala

Shervin and I obviously made it to our destination alive, but with a newly acquired phobia. We alighted at a random bus stop near the city center and headed straight to a food place for lunch. A stranger helped us order for there was no menu. This man named Wimala also offered to take us around the ruins since he's actually a tuktuk driver (surprise, surprise).

After finishing our meal of bland fried rice (well it's either that or a tear-jerking spicy curry dish), he took us to a cheap guesthouse (1,300 LKR or about $12 a night for a double room) called Lake View Tourist Guesthouse which despite its name does not have a view of some lake. We spent no second idling. After dropping off our backpacks, we asked Wimala to drive us to the old town, pronto.

The Ruins

Admission to the ruins will set you back $25. The ticket counter is located somewhere within the vast complex. Since there are several entry points, tuktuks aren't properly monitored. We didn't pass by the counter when we entered, but we paid the "ticket fee" to Wimala. Fishy ain't it? We didn't point this out however because he only charged 5,000 LKR or $45 for the two of us, and this rate included hiring his service for three hours.

He's well-equipped with information anyways. His impressive knowledge about his city's history made us feel that the money we shelled out was worth the tour. He lent us a brochure to browse as he took us to the following sites:

Isurumuniya

An old vihara (Buddhist monastery) where the sacred tooth relic of Buddha in Kandy was originally kept.

Mirisawetiya

The first dagoba (a dome-shaped shrine that houses sacred relics) built by Great King Dutugamunu. It may not seem magnificent, but being more than 2,000 years old (though underwent several renovations), it is definitely an architectural marvel.

Not too distant from the dagoba is a tree with prayer flags hanging onto its branches.

Lankarama

A stupa built under the rule of King Valagamba. Pillars surrounding the stupa indicate that the structure was once roofed. It was originally Lankarama monastery's center.

As we left the dagoba, I looked up to the sky and saw rainclouds fast approaching. It was going to be a mad dash to the other sites. Stay tuned for the continuation.

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Sydney To Suffolk Park: On The Wheel

2011-11-15T08:22:00.010+08:00

Despite the algid New South Wales spring eve, my palms were sweaty. I peered into the darkness and took a deep breath. After a tenth glance at the rear-view and side mirror, I finally mustered enough guts to step on the pedal.

It had been five years since I was last on the wheel. I'd like to think I was a good driver for I frequently drove from Manila to Mariveles and back (about five hours each way) two to three times a week for work. I used to be a "Sales Engineer" for a construction company, and back then, one of my top clients was situated there.

But hey, five years is a really long time. And may I add, I had never driven overseas (I ain't even entirely sure if I'm allowed to drive in Australia with just a Philippine license) and on the left side of the road, so you could imagine how terrified I was that night.

Taking over. Gripping the wheel oh so tight.
We were on our way to a Suffolk Park, a quaint suburb south of famous hippie town Byron Bay, where we'll be staying for six weeks in a caravan park. About every minute, a vehicle or two zoomed past our beat up, borrowed car which we named Gumby (simply because it resembles the hue of this peculiar clay character).

Suffice it to say that, Pacific Highway at that time was far from bustling. This gave me courage. To the hubby's surprise, I kept my foot on the accelerator until I reached the speed limit. Like a kid reunited with his bike after ages, I got my groove back in a breeze.

Almost an hour into my driving, I noticed the fuel gauge indicating that Gumby's almost out. I found it odd for it showed that my tank's half filled just a few minutes back (this taught us not to trust an aging, $700 car). A quick consultation with our GPS device informed us that the next petrol station's a mere four kilometers away. This should have given us peace of mind, except, the engine died right after we checked the GPS.

Pouring petrol through a makeshift funnel made out of a disposable water bottle, which we cut up using my nipper.
I managed to let Gumby glide closer to the shoulder. The car broke down past a curve. In total darkness and with a 110 KPH limit imposed, this is most definitely a dangerous part of the highway to be in. In my head, I knew time is of the essence. I scrambled out of the car while Shervin took over the wheel, so he could whisk it out of harm's way. I pushed the car by myself with all my mortal might. And chakra.

Then we both started flagging zooming cars and trucks. It was frightening to leave Luna in the car by herself (it was too cold outside), but with Shervin wearing a black hoodie, I thought he might come off as a suspicious character to motorists. Our daughter weeped as she watched us from the backseat. Her sob, muffled.

In less than five minutes, a SUV pulled over a few meters ahead. While Shervin spoke to the driver, two more vehicles stopped by. I thanked the others and assured them that we're already taken cared of. The three men aboard the SUV are Pakistanis, and have been residents of Australia for years now. They didn't want Luna and I to be left by ourselves in the car so we all squeezed in theirs.

Free dinner from Good Samaritans: Pizza and Krispy Kreme doughnuts!
At the petrol station, we bought five liters of fuel in a can which should have been enough to take Gumby to the station so we could fill him up. Unfortunately, when we returned to our car and refueled it, it showed no response when we turned on the ignition. The Pakistanis had to make a second trip for another five-liter can. They let us wait in our car as we munched on Krispy Kreme Original Glazed Doughnuts(!) which they provided us.

It took them about half an hour to get back (we saw them miss our car, they did another lap through the nearest exit) With ten liters of fuel, at last, the car roared to life. Before leaving, they offered to keep an eye on us until we get close to the petrol station. They also gave us leftover pizza which we actually ate for dinner (uhm, aside from the doughnuts).

We bid farewell through our respective windows as we approached the turnoff.

One-hour nap at a random rest stop.
The incident left me a bit rattled but not badly shaken. In fact, I offered to drive again and even stayed on the wheel from midnight until six in the morn. Shervin was able to take intermittent naps. Intermittent because I kept waking him up whenever an Optimus Prime (gigantic truck) tailed us (cause that seriously freaks me out) or I saw a roadkill on my path.

I almost ran over a kangaroo too, so I asked him to scan his side of the highway and warn me if he spots yet another suicidal one. Most species of kangaroos are nocturnal, hence they actively hop around and feed at night. It was my first time to see them in the wild, however I was not too stoked cause yah know, I never imagined playing patintero against them with our lives as bets.

Hubby and I never intended to do an all-nighter. In fact, we first agreed to spend the night in Newcastle. We ended up driving further and agreed to sleep in Port Macquarie instead. Changed our minds, drove further and agreed to finally retire in Coffs Harbour. None of these happened because our willingness to sacrifice for a few bucks (cheapest double room in a motel is priced at $60) outweighed the idea of giving our weary bones a break.

Well actually, we both did take an hour nap at some random rest stop, quarter past six in the morning. After which, reenergized Shervin was in charge of the wheel for the last time that ten-hour drive. Two hours later, we settled in one of the most charming cabins we've ever seen!

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Snapshot Saturday: Postcard #8 Australia Walkabout Wildlife Park, New South Wales

2011-11-12T06:59:00.008+08:00

It's day 144 of our round-the-world trip, and we've finally settled in U.S.A.! We're totally not excited about spending winter in California (after a long Australian winter), but since the hubby's visa approval took ages, we didn't have much choice. It's just been two days since we arrived, and already we're heading out to see what Santa Clara offers.

Today's postcard though is still from Australia, which I mailed a day before we left the country. I purchased it from Australia Walkabout Wildlife Park where we had a shoot for Couchsurfing's promotional video! Will tell you guys all about it on a separate post. Someday.
It's not too late to join! Email your address to gaye.emami@yahoo.com. Recipients are chosen via Random.org.

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Batan Island, Batanes: Old Spanish Bridge and House Of Dakay

2011-11-10T04:38:00.000+08:00

The misty, winter morn progressed in a whirlwind. A pace that overwhelmed my sleepless being. I awkwardly joined the blithesome chatter amongst a wacky bunch of characters I just met that day. We're all winners of SEAIR Batanes Winter Bloggers' Tour Contest, and were on a road cruise around Batan Island.

Old Spanish Bridge. Journeying James taking a photo of us taking a photo of him.
My half-slumbering brain struggled as it ingested Batanes facts shared by our guide, Engr. Joseph Dy. Like schoolies on a field trip, every so often we hopped off the van to visit Batan's famous attractions. The first-timers' infectious enthusiasm kept me on my toes, and their constant chuckles kept me astir.

Bless and James lovin' the local kiddos.
After an obligatory snapshot at Ivana's welcome signage, we alighted on Ivana Bridge. Engr. Dy pointed at the Old Spanish Bridge (most likely the oldest in the province, functional to this day) across us. James sprinted towards it and the rest of us trudged after his footsteps. We found a couple of local kids crossing to the other side, who shyly posed for our cameras.

House Of Dakay.
Not distant from the bridge is the House Of Dakay, where we headed next. This traditional Ivatan house, one of the survivors of a 1918 earthquake, was named after its former owner Jose Dakay Estrella. Descendant Florestida Estrella, fondly called Lola Ida by everyone, is its lone occupant today.

The house's exterior wall. Beautifully made with unpolished corals.
Though a bit sick, Lola Ida welcomed us in her humble abode. Her old age is depicted in her somewhat sluggish movement, but the glint in her eyes expressed a younger aura. Our party of seven fit comfortably in the teeny, sparsely furnished house. We gathered around her and sat on the floor, mimmicking the set of Mga Kuwento ni Lola Basyang sans granny's rocking chair.

Lola Ida. Under the weather but on top of the world!
We listened to her recollection of the past, and how she lives her golden days in this renowned house. I must say, she herself is an attraction. How I wish we had more time to stay with her longer, but we had not even accomplished a quarter of our must see list (plus she was in dire need of rest anyway).

Sadly, we bid farewell much too soon. Lola Ida watched us walk back to our van. Her face, illuminated by faint rays, was perfectly framed by the antique window. A picture I was not able to capture with my camera, but is embedded in my mind.

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Snapshot Saturday: Lighthouse Beach

2011-11-05T16:26:00.003+08:00

We broke the long ten-hour drive from Gold Coast to Sydney into two. Our Couchsurfing host Chris, a British who's been living in Port Macquarie for thirty-six years now (and a gold mine of hilarious traveloques), took us in for a night even though we were traveling with a toddler.

Behind his beautiful backyard is a trail through the rainforest which led us to a road parallel to Lighthouse Beach. We sauntered along this beach northward until we reached the foot of a rocky headland where there's a flight of stairs to a lighthouse perched atop. The cutest we've ever seen. More on that lighthouse later...

Because right now, I'm packing for the Nth time. After four months, we're finally flying out of Australia next week!

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Tube Travel Tuesday: The List Goes On

2011-11-01T07:04:00.003+08:00

And we're back to virtual traveling through the tube (though in real life we're currently on a six-hour drive from Gold Coast to Port Macquarie)! Today, five more travel bloggers share flicks that don't blatantly state "Hi, I'm a travel film", but inspired them to explore the world anyway.

After that long weekend vacay burning a hole in your pocket, grab a copy of each so staying in this coming weekend won't be so bad.

3 Idiots

Josiah of Lakas Ng Trip:

"One of the 3 bestfriends suddenly disappeared after graduation in an engineering college. When the other two got a lead on where their friend was, one emergency landed a plane and the other left his home with only a shirt and his underwear. They then found a not-so-good friend from college where their journey begins around the breathetaking sceneries of India only to find their friend.

The story is done with intermittent flashbacks on the present day and their wacky adventures in college where they learned a lot about life, pursuing their dreams and how they can be the best at what they do.

This movie made me realize that travels should not always be planned. Sometimes you just need to stop what you are doing, go out and do the things you want. There are a lot of flashbacks in your life that will happen during travels and those will make you realize if what you did in the past episodes of your life was good or bad."

Sin Nombre

Dennis of Nomadic Pinoy:

"Released in 2009, Sin Nombre is a very gritty, emotionally-charged movie tackling "greener pastures" for two different Latino characters who meet by chance on a rail journey to the United States. The girl (Sayra), prodded on by her estranged father, goes north to escape poverty in Honduras while the boy (El Casper) is trying to escape from the shackles of gang violence in Mexico.

Captivating cinematography brings the audience up close to the dangers that illegal immigrants from Central America face as they embark on a hopeful journey to a better life in the States. This voyage honestly mirrors that desperation and melancholy so many people face which oftentimes and painfully so, end up in defeat.

This kind of journey may not be everyone's cup of tea but Sin Nombre effectively depict hopes and dreams as a long road full of potholes. So raw, so sad, yet so beautiful."

Outsourced

And another fave of Dennis:

"This was the movie (besides Slumdog Millionaire) that got me wishing for a plane ticket to India. It's hilarious, candid and a great peek at the cultural rift between the West and East. When an entire call center department in Seattle was outsourced to India, Todd Anderson (played by Josh Hamilton) was sent to train his Indian replacement at a remote location. The cultural shock he encountered on arrival in Mumbai - like hiring a taxi and catching a train - was just a prelude to the many experiences that many other travelers to developing countries encounter. Todd's naivete on so many things outside America becomes apparent even as he tries to Americanize the accents of the Indian call center agents. In no time, the Indian characters all around him - especially the outspoken co-worker Asha and his friendly replacement Puro - made him more at ease with the customs while at the same time gaining a traction on the very reason why he was sent there in the first place."

View From The Top

Lloyd of The Lost Boy:

"View from the Top's plot is amusingly simple. Here is a small town girl Donna (Gwyneth Paltrow) who wants a job away from her hometown. When her boyfriend breaks up with her through a birthday card and she quits her job, she got inspired by a TV interview with Sally Weston (Candice Bergen), a retired star flight attendant. Donna packed her bags and started her dreams up in the air as a flight attendant at Sierra Airlines, a regional carrier. She knows she has bigger dreams, so she went to Royalty Airlines. The road was tough though, as she was conflicted between her career and romance, but nothing stopped her from achieving her dream of flying to "Paris, first class, international."

With REALLY bad reviews, people have dismissed this as an offensively horribly movie, but this movie inspires me. I also want to be a flight attendant for the travel opportunities, and flying simply amazed me. I just know that my dreams are up there and in different places around the world."

Amelie

Kara of Travel Up:

"The French film Amelie inspired me to look at everything - both in travel and life in general - in a more positive light.

Set in a beautiful red and green-tinted Montmartre, Paris, the film is a about how a highly imaginative but shy waitress changes the lives of people around her, while struggling with her own isolation. The movie brings together a cast of interesting characters, including Nino, a young man who Amelie is drawn to because he strangely collects discarded photographs from passport photo booths and pieces them together.

Amelie finds joy in simple pleasures and concocts complicated plans in order to help the people around her. Through her schemes, she helps her father pursue his dream of going around the world, gives closure to a neighbor who thought her husband abandoned her years ago, and plays practical jokes on a bullying neighbor to make him question his sanity.

I love the idea of a world where ordinary things can be extraordinary - how discarded photographs can be one's treasures, and a garden gnome can travel the world. I've always been a pessimist and an introvert and there was a time that I dreaded talking to people I didn't know. In a way, this movie inspired me to go beyond my comfort zone, take more risks and open up more. Now when I travel, I relish the experience, focus on the positive highlights and just let go."

Cast Away

Dane of Tramping Philippines:

"Its a movie about a fed ex superior that unfortunately got his plane struck down by a storm. He eventually washed up the shore of an uninhabited island and discovered that there's no one else there to help him survive other than, of course, himself

It got me sort of inspired by the way he tries to survive without the technology of our present time. The things he do I try to emulate while we're on the mountains. For example, I actually dont bring lighters and matches during climbs, instead I have a flint. And I start to create fire using nothing but ol mother nature himself. haha. Its pretty weird but learning survival stuffs kinda helpful as a climber and actually helped me realize how some things can be made through natural materials."

How about you? What movie/documentary made you pack your bags and go?
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Al Ain Desert Day Jaunt: The Uninvited Pinay

2011-10-27T07:07:00.005+08:00

Our four-wheel drive vehicle jounced along, raising dense clouds of russet dust in our wake. I hardly spoke to Shervin since we left U.A.E. University. Well, except for a few whispered one-liners. That trip exuded an uneasy vibe. The apathetic-bordering-hostile treatment I received made me feel almost unwelcome. Even though I felt like going home, the fearless Filipina in me persuaded me not to.

Nobody asked me to leave anyway...

The usual desert safari mishap.
Three years ago, when the hubby and I were still steadies, we joined a desert safari organized by a bunch of Emirati I.T. uni students. They invited their professors in U.A.E. University for a weekend day jaunt, and though Shervin was a research lab assistant, they asked him to come along as well.

They dubbed the event "Family Day". And as its name suggested, the professors brought their families with them. Shervin and his Indian research lab partner Chandan turned up at the meeting place, a parking lot across one of the uni buildings, with Shervin's dad (who happened to be visiting from Iran) and me in tow.

First order of business, reducing tire pressure.
I counted about three other females. None of them older than ten. It dawned on me that family day in some (if not all) Middle East countries, basically pertains to the get together of the families' male members. And in this particular case, a few preadolescent daughters.

Families were grouped into four and were assigned respective 4x4s. Shervin, his dad and I were whisked to our vehicle and were introduced to the student on the wheel. And before driving out of the uni grounds, another student hopped in the passenger seat. He's uhm, the heir to the section of the desert we were visiting.

Shervin's dad clinging onto the door handle and his son's leg while the vehicle was tilted in a 45° angle, which I don't think can save him in case we flip over.
A few minutes into the ride, a ball of conversation rolled. I was excluded from the exchange of introductions. And I took that as a hint to remain silent. Cause you know, I'm not the type who'd say "Ahem, ahem. Ana Gay (I am Gay).", without being asked. It kind of felt unfair because amongst the three of us non-Emiratis, I spoke the most Arabic words and phrases.

For a day, I was an interpreter. Actually more like, eavesdropper-slash-informer, for our hosts either spoke between themselves or on the phone with the other students driving.

Milk freshly squeezed from the camel's bosom.
As soon as we screeched off the paved road and into the vast desert, the vehicles parked for tire pressure reduction. Such procedure shall give tires a bigger surface area, which helps reduce the downward pressure of the 4x4 on the sand. Nearby, Emirati lads who popped out of sandy nowhere and who were seemingly on an ATV race, paused to watch.

In a matter of minutes, we were bashing dunes. And it was more exhilarating than I expected. I suppressed the urge to shriek like a cowering passenger on a roller coaster, and held my newly purchased DSLR tight (yes, a fruit of my OFW stint). The wild ride lasted for almost half an hour. How exhausted I was from all that stress. Just imagine yourself on a roller coaster doing continuous rounds for the same amount of time, not entirely fun right?

The corner where "the lady" was asked to sit in.
Sometime in the middle of the dune bashing and settling in the picnic area that was set for us, we passed by a mini camel farm where we had a taste of freshly squeezed camel milk. It didn't taste bad, but the foam on top of the milk smelt too camel-y. You know, that type of odor that reminds you of a farm, but not in a fond way.

Hence, I was looking forward to our late afternoon tea. I needed to shoo the memory of its scent away. But come tea time, I was not served tea. We assumed it was against their customs. So I munched on local pastries instead while the students and their professors prayed in the tent.

And it was all golden.
After which, they all joined us at the screen-fenced sitting area. One of the professors requested, "Can the lady please sit in the corner so we can extend the sitting room?". And so I did.

The students laid plastic sheets on the ground to serve as placemats for the gigantic platters of food. Each platter contained a mountain of fried rice, vegetables and one whole roasted sheep. The desert safari experience surely left everyone famished. As soon as the food hit the plastic mats, we all dug in. No individual plates, no cutlery. We ate with our hands in a communal platter, exactly how the former nomads did just a few decades ago. The Egyptian professor beside me offered the "best bits" and pulled ligaments here and there and chucked them to my side of the platter. So sweet.

A blurry image I was initially fearful to take a snapshot of.
Tea was once again served as the diners concluded their meals. I was served tea this time and learned that the bloke probably just didn't feel like serving me. Emirati men are generally friendly (I know this oh so well for I worked as a hotel receptionist in Al Ain) but too prim when they're with the elders. This could also be the reason why they acted as if I didn't exist. A behavior so different from what I had gotten used to, like random Emiratis calling out "Kamusta ganda" (how are you beautiful)" to me as I strolled along deserted streets.

The water from the buckets in the makeshift comfort room was limited, and there was no soap. Shervin's dad's solution to our sticky fingers was to rub them in sand. It amazingly worked, though cannot get rid of the smell. And believe me, you would want to get rid of that.

The happy, shiny gate crasher.
As the breeze became nippy, we clambered into our four-wheelers for the last time. The vehicles queued for a convoy. Finding one's way out of the desert is never an easy task, especially in total darkness.

No more dune bashing this time. Just a calm cruise toward the city lights.

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