tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3049026752597640112024-02-08T13:55:29.113+08:00The World Behind My WallTraveling the Philippines and the rest of the world.vinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00282010163305970753noreply@blogger.comBlogger57125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-304902675259764011.post-80090328123720055702014-11-18T18:13:00.000+08:002014-11-18T18:13:19.713+08:00Globe Data Roaming: Unlimited for a Flat Rate of P599/day!<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/15819891092" title="Globe Telecom P599 Infographic by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="Globe Telecom P599 Infographic" height="500" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5612/15819891092_14160ddd62.jpg" width="382" /></a>
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Tired of hunting for wi-fi spots just to upload a photo on Instagram? Lost your luggage at the airport the 2nd time around? Need immediate access to Maps to make your way through the ancient temples in the city? Looking for hotel and restaurant reviews to make your vacation more worth it? Make your trip abroad a worry-free experience with Globe Telecom’s P599/day unlimited data roaming available in over 70 countries worldwide with FREE TravelCare insurance of up to P200,000! Check out this infographic and get educated. Visit <a href="http://bit.ly/globedataroaming"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; font-size: small;">bit.ly/globedataroaming</span></a> for more details! <i>#GlobeDataRoaming </i>
</span></span>vinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00282010163305970753noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-304902675259764011.post-52481049639902989662014-11-03T18:30:00.001+08:002021-04-23T20:03:27.731+08:00Ninoy Aquino International Airport, Manila: Slowing Gathering Momentum<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/5/59/NAIA_Terminal_3_2009_MC.jpg" title="Image courtesy of Wikipedia"><img src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/5/59/NAIA_Terminal_3_2009_MC.jpg" height="332" width="500" /></a></div>
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Earlier this month, <a href="http://edition.cnn.com/2014/10/20/travel/worst-airports-2014-sleeping-in-airports/"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; font-size: small;">CNN</span></a> reported that Ninoy Aquino was no longer classed as the worst airport in the world. Thankfully, its services are steadily improving after a recent renovation of its Terminal 3.
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After three years of being crowned the world’s worst airport, Pakistan’s Islamabad Benazir Bhutto International Airport has taken over the mantel as the most undesirable airport destination. Now Ninoy is ranked as the fourth worst leaving in its wake the like of Saudi Arabia’s Jeddah’s King Abdulaziz international Aiport and Nepal’s Kathmandu Tribhuvan Airport.
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It’s a welcome rest bite for the <a href="http://www.manila-airport.net/"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; font-size: small;">Philippines’ flagship airport</span></a> after years of bad publicity most notably due to the aforementioned renovations of its Terminal 3. And although it’s a far cry from making the <a href="http://www.worldairportawards.com/awards_2014/worlds_top_100Airports.htm"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; font-size: small;">top 100 best airports in the world</span></a>, Ninoy should be proud of it’s recent improvements and strive to continue to improve.
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Some of the most underwhelming issues with Ninoy apart from its drab interior is the fact that it’s extremely difficult navigating its departure and arrivals parking services and the transportation roads it’s accessed by. This is something that needs to be drastically improved if it’s to rank higher up the league table. Other airports around the world such as London’s Gatwick airport are accessed via multiple roads as well as via train and shuttle buses, as per UK-based website <a href="http://www.parking4less.com/gatwick-airport/"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; font-size: small;">Parking4Less</span></a>. Features like this are lacking from Ninoy’s design and therefore congestion has been detrimental to its rankings over the years. I just hope one day my <a href="https://www.etoro.com/people/vinsabay">trades on eToro</a> are also going to increase much like NAIA's ranking today (kidding).
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Ultimately, it’s variables such as its bad design of the roads that surround the airport, which is causing the airport to come under fire by the media and visitors to the airport. However, with the tourist industry booming in the Philippines and Ninoy being the gateway to so many of our wonderful islands, let’s hope that the recent renovation is the first of many to come and Ninoy continues to go from strength-to-strength.
</span></span>vinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00282010163305970753noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-304902675259764011.post-4945649243165847732014-03-20T21:25:00.000+08:002014-06-06T06:07:51.642+08:00Batanes: Heaven Is a Place on Earth<div align="center">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/13286948545/" title="batanes by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="batanes" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7041/13286948545_a846c6aaa2.jpg" height="332" width="500" /></a>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">I usually don’t go back to the places that I’ve already visited before because my goal is to see as many places as possible. That it would be wiser to travel to a new destination rather than go to the same old beach or city that I’ve already set foot on. Another factor that I put into consideration is my budget which I believe is much better spent on wandering to a place that I haven’t explored yet unless I can score cheap flights or get an all-expense paid trip. But Batanes was different. It’s as if this place was calling me to visit her once again but with a different mission this time.
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/13287310424/" title="batanes by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="batanes" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3763/13287310424_5f3f5c6528.jpg" height="332" width="500" /></a>
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One of the reasons why I hesitated going back is that the timing just wasn’t right. If it wasn't for the cheap flight from Manila to Basco that I got then I could have just chosen a different destination. It was the winter season and to make the matters worse, precipitation is most likely to occur during our stay plus the fact that I hate the cold weather. Being a shutterbug, it was hard for me to appreciate a place when the sky is cloudy or worse, raining. I always prefer a sunny day in order to take good photos. When pictures don’t turn out quite good because of the poor lighting conditions, I usually get disappointed and always get that feeling of regret that I have wasted my time and effort. But this changed because of Batanes. Of all the 5 days that we spent in this province, the sun only showed up for 2 days. At first I was frustrated but then I realized that taking photos is not the main reason why I travel. I realized that I was so focused on capturing an experience rather than actually enjoying the experience.
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/13287423894/" title="batanes by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="batanes" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3731/13287423894_3520c05664.jpg" height="332" width="500" /></a>
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On the first day, Wilma and I were able to have a good talk with one of the locals who happened to be a radio broadcaster of DWPT Radyo ng Bayan. She was very polite and courteous and our conversation lasted for nearly an hour talking about the Ivatan culture and how they were able to preserve it through the years. The whole staff of the radio station was also kind enough to provide us shelter from the rain and even volunteered to take us back to the city for free. Hospitality indeed is a unique and common trait among these people and I prefer to capture these moments not with a camera but with my mind.
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/13287309184/" title="batanes by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="batanes" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3677/13287309184_7109f49bee.jpg" height="500" width="332" /></a>
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Food in Batanes is also quite unique and healthier in comparison to the usual food that we have in the metro. Why is it so? It’s because their cows are free to graze around the vast grasslands where these animals eat purely organic food. They have the most delicious beef which is ideal for dishes like tapa, bulalo or sinigang. What’s surprising is that these local dishes are not pricey at all. In fact, I only paid 60 pesos for a bowl of sinigang that I ordered at a canteen in Mahatao and that includes 2 cups of rice already! It was one of the most delicious meals I’ve ever had, really.
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/13287309364/" title="batanes by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="batanes" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7405/13287309364_9b2247e225.jpg" height="500" width="332" /></a>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/13286948645/" title="batanes by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="batanes" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2860/13286948645_a1b9c5e5f6.jpg" height="332" width="500" /></a>
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Another memorable experience that I certainly won’t forget is the 6-hour roundtrip walk that we did from Basco to Mahatao. That’s a total of 28 kilometers by foot but what’s amazing is that we never experienced exhaustion or tiredness at all. It made me realize that traveling with people who have the same passion as you do would really make the experience more enjoyable and fun. That no matter where you go or how long it is to get to your destination, the person beside you will make the journey truly worthwhile.
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/13287100383/" title="batanes by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="batanes" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2883/13287100383_db21d5817d.jpg" height="500" width="332" /></a>
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5 days was not enough for me to see all the cultural and historical sites that this wonderful place has to offer but it was more than enough to change my outlook on life for the better.<br /><br />Batanes is indeed one of the most amazing places in the Philippines, a piece of heaven on earth. But it's not just because of the extensive rolling hills, the century-old stone houses or the fact that it’s at the northernmost part of the country. What makes this place different and unique is that it was able to bring me back to life's simple pleasures. That beauty can be appreciated at any season or time of day. That travel experiences are more important than pictures. That long walks can be fun as long as you’re with a friend. That the most delicious meal you’ll ever have doesn't have to be an expensive one. That happiness can be found in the most unexpected places and circumstances. And isn't that what heaven is all about?<br /><br />Dios Mamajes to the people of Batanes and the new friends that we’ve met along the way.
</span></span>vinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00282010163305970753noreply@blogger.com10Batanes, Philippines20.4485074 121.9708129000000619.4978459 120.67991940000006 21.3991689 123.26170640000005tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-304902675259764011.post-4339455426624757972013-05-16T19:18:00.000+08:002013-05-16T19:18:41.282+08:00Wanted: Travel Buddy (A Bakasyonista Special Documentary)<div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; text-align: center;"><object width="500" height="375"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/j5tRbBj_Vxw?version=3&hl=en_US&rel=0"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/j5tRbBj_Vxw?version=3&hl=en_US&rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="500" height="375" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true"></embed></object>
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<span style="font-size: small;">A group of people, each one having a distinct personality but drawn to each other by a common love for travel. Despite the differences they share and celebrate life, laughter and love. Sounds cliché but it's true. And as we enter our fourth year, we present a special documentary on how our group started out. Happy anniversary Bakasyonistas!</span></div>
vinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00282010163305970753noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-304902675259764011.post-13464010316986361082013-02-14T16:48:00.002+08:002013-02-14T18:50:02.046+08:00Guisi Beach: Rocks, Rocks and More Rocks<div align="center">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/8472130501/" title="Guisi Beach by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="Guisi Beach" height="333" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8515/8472130501_e0ca3a4d80.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Guimaras is widely known for producing some of the sweetest mangoes in the world but other than this, little is known about its beautiful and unusual beaches like Guisi Beach in Nueva Valencia.</span>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/8472129315/" title="Guisi Beach by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="Guisi Beach" height="332" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8085/8472129315_567967532b.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/8472130635/" title="Guisi Beach by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="Guisi Beach" height="333" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8226/8472130635_bed3930d38.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">The funny thing about our trip to Guimaras is that we were really not after the mangoes. We were simply looking for a place to celebrate our <a href="http://www.theworldbehindmywall.com/2011/09/bakasyonista-cheers-to-16-months.html"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; font-size: small;">group's anniversary</span></a> and have a fun shoot by wearing an all-black attire. At first I'm a little apprehensive because I hardly know any popular beach in this mango country and the itinerary of our trip wasn't really planned. Even the accommodation wasn't arranged so any resort that still has vacancy was our only option. Little did I know that I was going to be stunned by this rocky beach in Nueva Valencia.</span>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/8472130677/" title="Guisi Beach by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="Guisi Beach" height="324" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8103/8472130677_fc93356aaf.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/8472130589/" title="Guisi Beach by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="Guisi Beach" height="333" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8239/8472130589_008d794ab7.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Contrary to what we were expecting, we were surprised to see the number of visitors occupying the resorts and found out that this beach is frequented by the locals especially on weekends during the summer season. What's unique about Guisi is that it features a number of rock formations that makes it a picturesque place for those who want to experience something out of the ordinary. Some of the rocks however are difficult to climb because of its naturally sharp surfaces and even the thickest calluses are not enough to protect your feet. It's a good thing that the resort owners have added bamboo bridges making it easier to transfer from one rock to another.</span>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/8472130083/" title="Guisi Beach by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="Guisi Beach" height="332" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8523/8472130083_50e0c0c910.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/8473218902/" title="Bakasyonistas at Guisi Beach by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="Bakasyonistas at Guisi Beach" height="332" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8387/8473218902_c2f7155949.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/8472130373/" title="Bakasyonistas at Guisi Beach by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="Bakasyonistas at Guisi Beach" height="250" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8375/8472130373_a35a28ef76.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">The group's first shoot was done in <a href="http://www.theworldbehindmywall.com/2011/05/cagbalete-define-low-tide.html"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; font-size: small;">Cagbalete</span></a> and the theme then was all-white so in contrast to what we did last year, we decided to do an all-black theme this time for a change. We planned to do this on an open beach but the stunning rock formations that we didn't expect to see made the shoot even more fun and enjoyable. Those who were able to finish getting their photos taken went up to the rocks and jumped into the inviting waters of the beach. I on the other hand just opted to stay on the cabana since I have acrophobia.</span>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/8473219948/" title="Guisi Point Lighthouse by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="Guisi Point Lighthouse" height="320" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8088/8473219948_9cff85eb33.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/8472130551/" title="Guisi Point Lighthouse by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="Guisi Point Lighthouse" height="333" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8104/8472130551_0f00fba039.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/8472129981/" title="Guisi Beach by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="Guisi Beach" height="332" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8099/8472129981_38e87f50d9.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Another interesting tourist spot that can be seen in Guisi is its old lighthouse which was built during the Spanish-colonial period. This rusty tower may not be appealing for most tourists but the idea of seeing a worn-out tower that has been standing for more than 300 years makes it worth a short visit. This old and decaying structure however is no longer operational and is replaced by a new lighthouse located just a few meters from the original one. It is best to go to this place early in the morning which is what we did upon waking up. The reward that we got is a commanding view of Guisi and its beautiful shoreline - a perfect way to start our second day at this peaceful beach.</span>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/8473219064/" title="Guisi Beach by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="Guisi Beach" height="332" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8506/8473219064_24b89b56ba.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/8473219656/" title="Guisi Beach by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="Guisi Beach" height="332" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8104/8473219656_6351ba36b3.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/8472130265/" title="Guisi Beach by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="Guisi Beach" height="332" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8508/8472130265_c722e6d299.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">There's no doubt that Guisi is one of Guimaras' well-kept secret. This beach may not have the powdery white sands of Boracay or the long coastlines of Cagbalete but it does have that certain beauty that can only be appreciated if you look at it without comparing to the other known beaches. Sure it doesn't have white sand but who cares? With its crystal blue waters and jagged boulders, you certainly won't be disappointed!</span></span>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; font-size: small;">How to get there:</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; font-size: small;">From Ortiz Port in Iloilo City, take a ferry boat bound for Jordan Wharf. Travel time is around 15 minutes and the fare is Php 14. Once you arrive at the wharf, you can arrange for a shuttle or multicab at the tourism office which is just a few steps away from the arrival area. Travel time takes around an hour and the lowest fare for a group is Php 900.
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You can also take a jeepney bound for Nueva Valencia and tell the driver that you will be going to Guisi so he can drop you off at the intersection where you need to take a short habal-habal ride to the beach. Travel time for the jeepney ride is around 40 minutes and the fare is Php 45. The habal-habal ride takes around 15 minutes and the fare ranges from Php 20 to 40 depending on your haggling skills.</span>vinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00282010163305970753noreply@blogger.com9Nueva Valencia, Philippines10.5166667 122.5333332999999810.2668322 122.21060979999999 10.7665012 122.85605679999998tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-304902675259764011.post-52857991851599289262013-01-31T20:19:00.001+08:002013-02-01T05:12:13.534+08:00Bud Bongao: Tawi-Tawi's Sacred Peak<div align="center">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/8411057824/" title="Bud Bongao by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="Bud Bongao" height="332" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8230/8411057824_9f9d4bcfac.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">It's impossible to not get a glimpse of Bud Bongao for anyone who has been to Bongao, Tawi-Tawi. Surely it won't be hard to miss this towering sight that has a resemblance to the flat-topped Table Mountain of Cape Town in South Africa and whether you arrive by plane or boat, you will certainly be captivated by its beauty and splendor.</span>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/8411057854/" title="Bud Bongao by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="Bud Bongao" height="332" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8466/8411057854_12712ccc4e.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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<span style="font-size: small;">It is actually possible to climb this 315-meter high mountain on your own but in my case, I decided to hire a guide since I am not familiar with the jump-off point and I could use some company since my travel buddy was still in Zamboanga.</span>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/8411057916/" title="Bud Bongao by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="Bud Bongao" height="332" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8518/8411057916_6a2ae6143b.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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<span style="font-size: small;">At first sight, one could think that climbing Bud Bongao would be a challenge especially for someone who is not fond of hiking like me but in reality, any person can scale this mountain in no less than an hour. On my way up I saw different kinds of people like an old man, a mother with her 1-month old infant and a number of tourists; an obvious proof that anyone can climb this sacred peak.</span>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/8411057966/" title="Bud Bongao by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="Bud Bongao" height="332" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8088/8411057966_96a49e56d9.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/8411065238/" title="Bud Bongao by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="Bud Bongao" height="332" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8217/8411065238_1e0035d617.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Make sure that you bring some bananas with you if you plan to scale this mountain because chances are you might encounter some hungry monkeys on your way up and these primates are believed to be the guardians of this sacred peak. These monkeys are already accustomed to getting bananas from tourists as a pass-through fee but unfortunately I wasn't able to see one on my way up so we ended up eating all the bananas that we brought.</span>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/8411058012/" title="Bud Bongao by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="Bud Bongao" height="332" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8238/8411058012_44c090a091.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/8411065310/" title="Bud Bongao by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="Bud Bongao" height="332" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8229/8411065310_c50c24dac7.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/8411065288/" title="Bud Bongao by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="Bud Bongao" height="332" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8096/8411065288_b997bc8c5a.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/8411065186/" title="Bud Bongao by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="Bud Bongao" height="332" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8235/8411065186_12faaab763.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Near the top of the mountain are two Muslim shrines where one can pay respects and ask for forgiveness. Passing a few more meters from these shrines will take you all the way up the summit where you can have a magnificent view of Bongao, Sanga-Sanga and several outlying islands of Tawi-Tawi.</span>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/8411058054/" title="Bud Bongao with DocOnTravel by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="Bud Bongao with DocOnTravel" height="332" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8518/8411058054_36fca3e285.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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<span style="font-size: small;">I was fortunate enough to meet a <a href="https://www.facebook.com/FilipinoTravelBloggers"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; font-size: small;">Pinoy Travel Blogger</span></a> named Pen of <a href="http://www.doctorontravel.com/"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; font-size: small;">Doctor on Travel</span></a> who happens to be on the summit as well. This was actually a rare moment for me to meet a co-member of the group and for it happen on the summit of this sacred peak makes it even more memorable especially if it's someone who shares the same passion for traveling as you do.</span>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/8411065160/" title="Bud Bongao by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="Bud Bongao" height="332" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8082/8411065160_7da7551a1d.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Locals say that you haven't been to Tawi-Tawi if you haven't climbed Bud Bongao and after paying respects to this sacred mountain, I couldn't agree more. The expansive views at the summit, the opportunity to see the traditional customs of our Muslim brothers and the experience itself makes this hike truly a memorable one that I will gladly remember every time I think of the Philippines' southernmost pearl.</span>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; font-size: small;">How to get there:</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; font-size: small;">From Sanga-Sanga Airport, take a tricycle and ask the driver to take you to the jumpoff point of Bud Bongao. The trip takes just about 20 minutes and the fare is around Php100-150. The rate is almost the same if you're staying at the town center. If you're staying at Beachside Inn, you can walk towards the jumpoff point which could take around 20 minutes. Simply follow the trail and you'll find your way up to the summit.</span>
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vinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00282010163305970753noreply@blogger.com2Municipality of Bongao, Philippines5.013312691296866 119.750206086303714.9974946912968656 119.73003608630371 5.0291306912968663 119.7703760863037tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-304902675259764011.post-69263775416201132612013-01-27T19:00:00.000+08:002013-02-06T11:10:00.130+08:00NAIA Shuttle Bus: Gone Too Soon<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/6146991676/" title="NAIA 3 shuttle bus by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="NAIA 3 shuttle bus" height="332" src="http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6198/6146991676_c3fef68f88.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Bad news, budget travelers. The <a href="http://www.theworldbehindmywall.com/2011/09/cheaper-alternative-to-reach-naia.html"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; font-size: small;">shuttle bus</span></a> that plies from Taft Avenue to NAIA terminal 3 and vice versa is no longer operational. Since January 1, the shuttle is only used for transferring passengers between terminals 1, 2 and 3 with a flat rate of Php20.</span><br style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;" /><br style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;" />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">So now, what are the options left? The easiest and cheapest option to reach NAIA terminal 3 is to take a Nichols bound jeep from EDSA and request a drop off near Circulo del Mundo rotunda(the huge egg). The other option is for you to take any bus or jeepney ride from EDSA that goes to terminal 1 and then take the shuttle bus going to terminal 3.</span><br style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;" /><br style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;" /><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Don't like to use this option? Then you're left with no choice than to take a cab.<br /><br />
<b>Update: (as of Feb. 6)</b>
<br />Apparently the shuttle bus is still operational. Passengers bound for terminal 3 however are unloaded near the Circulo del Mundo rotunda and not in front of the arrival area anymore.</span></span>vinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00282010163305970753noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-304902675259764011.post-84977953456557246202013-01-22T19:51:00.000+08:002013-01-22T20:24:34.231+08:00Biri Rock Formations: Majestically Shaped by the Talents of Mother Nature<div align="center">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/8405095188/" title="biri rock formations by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="biri rock formations" height="332" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8233/8405095188_a5389cc73d.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">"Biri? Where the hell is that???" That's the common reaction that I got from my friends when I told them that I'm going to Biri, an island located in the province of Northern Samar where unusual rock formations can be found on its northern coastline.</span>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/8405095114/" title="biri rock formations by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="biri rock formations" height="332" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8499/8405095114_13f9d445eb.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Going to Biri during the monsoon season is a bit of a challenge because this is the time when Northern Samar gets frequently battered by strong typhoons and one would need to endure an hour of boat ride to reach the island so if there's any weather disturbance during your trip then expect a rough ride and prepare to get wet. That was actually my biggest fear especially after experiencing getting stranded in the middle of the sea for 3 hours when we went to <a href="http://www.theworldbehindmywall.com/2012/07/fortune-island-patch-of-greece-in.html"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; font-size: small;">Fortune Island</span></a> but fortunately (no pun intended) the sea was surprisingly calm and the boat ride to the island was quite tame in comparison to what we experienced in Nasugbu. Our boat however docked at Sto. Niño port instead of the main landing port in Poblacion because the waves were a bit rough near the town center.</span>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Habal-habal is the only means of transportation in this town so don’t expect ride on a car, a tricycle or even a jeepney when you plan to visit Biri. You don’t have to worry about rugged terrains or unpaved streets because much of the roads in Biri are already concreted so riding a habal-habal is no pain in the butt. There’s also no need to worry about being scammed or charged for ridiculous fees because the town follows a standard fare rate for those who wish to take a habal-habal.</span>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">We stayed at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/VILLA-AMOR/379765280978"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; font-size: small;">Villa Amor</span></a> which is a lodging house that offers both fan and air-conditioned rooms. Their fan rooms were actually affordable costing only Php500 per night and that is already good for 2 people. We opted for the fan room instead because it wouldn't be practical to get the air-conditioned rooms since electricity in this town only runs from around midday to midnight.</span>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/8404012497/" title="biri rock formations by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="biri rock formations" height="332" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8466/8404012497_8d9455d535.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Now on to the rock formations. There are 6 rock formations that can be found at the northeastern coastline of Biri: Magasang, Magsapad, Macadlao, Puhunan, Bel-at and Caranas. The first 3 are the main attractions in Biri but the last 3 are also worth a visit. Out of these 6 rock formations, we were able to visit and climb Magasang, Macadlao and Puhunan, all offering spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean as the waves crash over the magnificent rock outcrops that were majestically shaped by the talents of mother nature.</span>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">A boardwalk was already constructed between Magasang and Magsapad but only half of it was finished. According to the locals the original plan for the walkway was to connect the two rock formations but recent studies show that finishing the entire structure could obstruct the natural flow of water underneath so it was then decided to just make the boardwalk as a viewing deck for tourists.</span>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/8405095066/" title="biri cat by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="biri cat" height="332" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8044/8405095066_e013c69b64.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Upon reaching Magasang, we were welcomed by a cat which I seem to have seen in various photos of Biri on the web. It appears like this cat is already an online celebrity and has been used to accompanying tourists all the time. We were lucky enough to meet this little feline which guided us through the rocks.</span>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/8405095378/" title="biri rock formations by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="biri rock formations" height="332" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8238/8405095378_e7100157d7.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/8404012413/" title="biri rock formations by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="biri rock formations" height="332" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8230/8404012413_c94a980e1d.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/8404493418/" title="biri by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="biri" height="332" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8211/8404493418_347d1e5721.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">The walkway that was constructed on the Progress trail on the other hand is very useful. The structure gives access to the last 4 rock formations and allows one to avoid walking through the thick mangroves and leave them unscathed allowing them to grow naturally. Fortunately the entire boardwalk was already finished when we went there and it saved us from going for a long walk through the shallow waters to visit the other rock formations.</span>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/8404012559/" title="biri rock formations by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="biri rock formations" height="332" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8231/8404012559_b2be58531a.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/8404012627/" title="biri rock formations by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="biri rock formations" height="332" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8362/8404012627_e22a0086b0.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">The views from Macadlao and Puhunan were quite beautiful in all directions. Cliffs and strangely distorted rock formations jutting in chaotic patterns as the waves coming from the ocean continues to batter and shape these magnificent structures through time. It was such an awesome experience as we watch the rays of the sun illuminate the 6 rock formations one by one and the sound of the waves crashing through the shore makes it even more surreal. It was then that I realized that one does have to experience inconvenience and suffer a bit to see something that only a few people have ever seen in real life.</span>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">How to get there:</span></b><br style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;" /><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">1. From Catarman Airport take a tricycle and ask the driver to take you to the Catarman jeepney terminal. The trip takes just about 5 to 10 minutes and the fare is just around Php10 if you take the line of tricycles outside the airport.</span><br style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;" /><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">2. At the terminal, find the jeepneys that are bound for Lavezares. The ride is usually 45 minutes long and the fare is around Php50.</span><br style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;" /><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">3. At Lavezares, make your way towards the market and locate the boats that are bound for Biri. The boat ride takes around 1 hour and the standard fare is Php50. If you plan to hire the boat, expect to shell out around Php700. </span><br style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;" /><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">4. Once you arrive at Biri it would be easy to hail for a habal-habal to take you to your lodging house. This only takes around 5 to 10 minutes and only costs Php10.</span></span>vinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00282010163305970753noreply@blogger.com8Biri, Philippines12.695775050762592 124.3573399516601512.680284050762591 124.33716995166016 12.711266050762593 124.37750995166014tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-304902675259764011.post-56638919299149742572013-01-21T19:23:00.002+08:002013-01-22T04:37:49.302+08:00Burdeos: Beautifully Raw<div align="center">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/8029496880/" title="burdeos by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="burdeos" height="332" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8319/8029496880_9fd1f13883.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">I'm always fascinated with off-the-beaten-path destinations so when I saw an open invitation for a trip to Polillo Island, I never hesitated and instantly joined the event. Plus, this is also a great way for me to meet new people who are also fond of traveling.
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/8024558123/" title="burdeos by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="burdeos" height="332" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8176/8024558123_64c1c39a0c.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/8027206328/" title="burdeos by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="burdeos" height="332" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8456/8027206328_7e0fe8bfa5.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/8029489305/" title="burdeos by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="burdeos" height="332" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8311/8029489305_caaf07e7db.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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The original plan was to visit some of the most popular tourist spots in Polillo but because it was already the peak season and also a long holiday, we ended up camping at Anawan Island in Burdeos. At first I was a bit disappointed knowing that I'd only get to explore just one place but later on I learned to appreciate and love the beauty of this unexplored coastal town.
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/8029489575/" title="burdeos by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="burdeos" height="332" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8030/8029489575_565ec33ef8.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/8029489487/" title="burdeos by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="burdeos" height="332" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8031/8029489487_9139bbef9d.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/8029489643/" title="burdeos by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="burdeos" height="332" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8316/8029489643_5d085bf8f3.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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Even though a number of people are already inhabiting this island, the residents actually live without electricity. This might be a challenge for anyone who has been used to living in the city but for me it was a humbling experience to see how people go by and live their lives without this basic necessity.
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/8029496956/" title="burdeos by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="burdeos" height="332" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8180/8029496956_a2c94d7ccb.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/8029496996/" title="burdeos by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="burdeos" height="332" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8307/8029496996_2a73ce9ccd.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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One of the places that you shouldn't miss when you're in Burdeos is Anilon Island which features a cave where on could pass through from one end to the other. I was surprised to know that only half of this cave is visible during high tide but fortunately it was low tide when we got there so we were able to explore it without the need to use a boat. Walking towards the island is a bit of challenge though since the shore is full of rocks so make sure that you bring any form of walking stick especially if you plan to bring any of your gadgets.
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/8029489675/" title="burdeos by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="burdeos" height="332" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8182/8029489675_b6069c80f7.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/8029497118/" title="burdeos by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="burdeos" height="332" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8319/8029497118_32938ef0af.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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While we were still at Anawan, there was this instance when I told my travel buddies that I am going to blog about this place in Polillo but when one of the locals heard my comment, he approached me and said with a smile "Burdeos naman, wag Polillo". And so I happily said yes to that request and promised him that I will write a blog about their town.
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/8029496820/" title="burdeos by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="burdeos" height="332" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8319/8029496820_05a7470762.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/8029497054/" title="burdeos by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="burdeos" height="332" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8321/8029497054_81d51b8e13.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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What I really loved about Burdeos is that it offers beautifully raw beaches, caves and everything that you're looking for in an off-the-beaten destination. Most of its white sand beaches are still undiscovered and it even made me realize that there are still plenty of places to explore in this country. Burdeos alone has a lot more to offer and what's great about this town in Quezon is that it has been able to keep most of its natural attractions unscathed and untouched by the winds of time.
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/8029489773/" title="burdeos by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="burdeos" height="332" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8169/8029489773_fd2e19b0f7.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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Special thanks to Sir Rowell for organizing this trip.
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b>How to get there:</b><br />By car: Take the route going to Antipolo via Famy then turn left bound for Infanta, Quezon.<br /><br />By public transport: Take the bus going to Mauban or Infanta.<br /><br />At Real port, take a ferry boat going to Polilio or Anawan. You can hire a jeep to Burdeos then take a short boat ride to Anilon Island.</span> </div>
vinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00282010163305970753noreply@blogger.com4Burdeos, Philippines14.8436111 121.969722214.782214100000001 121.89075820000001 14.9050081 122.0486862tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-304902675259764011.post-25493026241921418912013-01-04T10:46:00.000+08:002013-02-15T19:36:20.865+08:00The World Behind My Wall 2012: Live While We're Young!<center><iframe src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/55098481?byline=0&portrait=0&color=ffffff" width="500" height="281" frameborder="0" webkitAllowFullScreen mozallowfullscreen allowFullScreen></iframe></center>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; font-size: small;">2012 was another great year for me in terms of traveling with 23 destinations (Bangkok, Ayutthaya, Polillo, <a href="http://www.theworldbehindmywall.com/2012/04/calaguas-unspoiled-beauty.html"><span style="font-size: small;">Calaguas</span></a>, <a href="http://www.theworldbehindmywall.com/2012/05/masasa-off-beaten-path-beach.html"><span style="font-size: small;">Masasa Beach</span></a>, Burot Beach, <a href="http://www.theworldbehindmywall.com/2012/09/dasol-pangasinans-hidden-gem.html"><span style="font-size: small;">Dasol</span></A>, <a href="http://www.theworldbehindmywall.com/2012/07/fortune-island-patch-of-greece-in.html"><span style="font-size: small;">Fortune Island</span></a>, Zamboanga, <a href="http://www.theworldbehindmywall.com/search/label/Tawi-Tawi"><span style="font-size: small;">Tawi-Tawi</span></a>, Yogyakarta, Jakarta, Liwliwa, Capiz, Antique, Osmena Peak, Boljoon, Corregidor, <a href="http://www.theworldbehindmywall.com/2013/01/biri-rock-formations-majestically.html"><span style="font-size: small;">Biri Island</span></a>, Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar, Seoul, Nami Island and Busan) and 2 festivals (<a href="http://www.theworldbehindmywall.com/2012/02/philippine-international-hot-air-ballon.html"><span style="font-size: small;">Philippine Hot Air Balloon Fiesta</span></a> and Giant Lantern Festival) for the books.<br/>
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I apologize if I haven't made any new posts for the past few weeks but rest assured that I will be back this year with more travel photos to share and more stories to tell. For now, please do watch this short music video that I made to sum up the best of my 2012.<br/>
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Happy new year everyone and thank you for reading The World Behind My Wall. Let's continue to explore the Philippines and the rest of the world.<br/></span>vinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00282010163305970753noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-304902675259764011.post-37788034624291922552012-09-15T00:32:00.002+08:002014-03-26T20:14:58.371+08:00The Venetian Macao: An Unfinished Business<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/7985853900/" title="Venetian Macau by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="Venetian Macau" height="357" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8317/7985853900_27287d74db.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">One of the places on my checklist when I visited Macau was the Venetian - a hotel and casino resort located at the Cotai District. Unfortunately, accommodation rates at this posh hotel is quite expensive for a budget traveler like me. I heard a 1 night stay at this 5 star hotel costs around a whopping Php 15,000 so I just had to settle for a decent hotel in Taipa which is just a few blocks away.</span></span><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/7985846917/" title="Venetian Macau by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="Venetian Macau" height="333" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8177/7985846917_cc01367750.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">The first sight of this marvelous hotel and casino was truly breathtaking. I really loved the fine detailing on the architectural design of this casino resort especially the lamp posts and even the audio that was playing all over the place to make everyone feel as if they are in Venice.</span></span><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/7985847151/" title="Venetian Macau by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="Venetian Macau" height="333" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8322/7985847151_a36360c829.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Upon entering the main lobby we were welcomed by a huge golden globe and at the behind it are the magnificent paintings on ceiling which is one of the main reasons why I wanted to visit this place. Oh and the other reason why we were also at this casino is because no money changer at Taipa would accept our pocket money which happens to be in dollars. Their reason is that our money has some sort of stamp that from the bank so our last option was to have it exchanged for Patacas at the casino. I had a sigh of relief after the Chinese staff accepted our money because we've already passed by several money changers and none of them were accepting our cash.</span></span><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/7985846473/" title="Venetian Macau by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="Venetian Macau" height="333" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8450/7985846473_271dab1c51.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">We were actually on a time crunch so I only had a few minutes to see the real the gambling action at this casino. If ever I had the chance, I would have tried playing several games like slot machines or poker which seems to be pretty interesting especially for newbies like me. Speaking of poker, I'm hearing a lot of buzz about the Battle of Malta. At first I thought it was some sort of historical event that happened in the past but I was surprised to learn that it's a live poker tournament that is scheduled to be held at the Portomaso Casino in St. Julian’s, Malta which happens to be another place in my bucket list if ever I have the chance to visit this Southern European country.</span></span><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/7985853224/" title="Venetian Macau by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="Venetian Macau" height="640" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8317/7985853224_f57e3907d2_z.jpg" width="425" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">I regret that I never had the chance to try out any of the games at the Venetian because it was already late and we needed to go back to our hotel to rest for the scheduled city tour for the next day. And so I promised myself that if ever I'll go back to Macau, I certainly wouldn't miss the opportunity to play a good game of slots, roulette or any game that this popular casino has to offer. Who knows, maybe lady luck is on my side and I'll have enough money to buy a round-trip ticket to another destination. Maldives perhaps?</span></span>vinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00282010163305970753noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-304902675259764011.post-49276423520777267952012-09-13T19:44:00.002+08:002012-09-13T21:23:12.475+08:00Dasol: Pangasinan's Hidden Gem<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/7741275460/" title="Dasol, Pangasinan by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="Dasol, Pangasinan" height="332" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8308/7741275460_acd8a592ce.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">I got an invite from <a href="http://www.blogger.com/www.limbonis.info">Ian Limbonis</a> to join his organized trip to Dasol and upon learning about the place, I was first skeptical that it might not just be worth-it. I've been to some of the most popular beaches in Pangasinan so I was thinking that it might just be a so-so tourist destination. But then again, my expectations proved me wrong upon seeing Cabongaoan, Tambobong and Colibra.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">I was actually getting used to invites after joining several organized trips to <a href="http://www.theworldbehindmywall.com/2012/04/calaguas-unspoiled-beauty.html">Calaguas</a>, <a href="http://www.theworldbehindmywall.com/2012/05/masasa-off-beaten-path-beach.html">Masasa</a> and Burot. After all, these kinds of trips are still a bang for the buck and the best thing about it is that you get to meet new friends who share the same passion as you do - <a href="http://www.theworldbehindmywall.com/2012/03/traveling-only-addiction-thats-good-for.html">traveling</a>. Oh, and it also saves me the hassles of creating an itinerary as well so kudos to these organizers. So when Ian said that he's planning to set up another organized trip then I signed up together with my longtime Bakasyonista buddies Earl and Dustin.</span></span><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/7741259958/" title="Dasol, Pangasinan by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="Dasol, Pangasinan" height="332" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8436/7741259958_7c26178be2.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">The first stop was Cabongaoan beach. The waves were very much inviting but I chose not to get myself wet yet since it is just the first leg of the trip. And while the others already gave in to the temptation and took a dip at the beach, some of us just decided to lie in the sand and took a nap for a few minutes. The coconut trees that offer a perfect shade from the sun and the sound of the waves was too hard to resist so after a few clicks on my camera, I joined the others and just "chilled" by the beach.</span></span><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/7741354488/" title="tambobong by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="tambobong" height="332" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8448/7741354488_2db802e5c8.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/7741303904/" title="tambobong by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="tambobong" height="332" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8302/7741303904_a4702b75da.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/7741292556/" title="tambobong by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="tambobong" height="332" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8430/7741292556_a40046b116.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">The second stop was Tambobong where where we decided to set camp for the night upon hearing the bad news that original plan to set camp at another island was not possible since the waves were already strong. And so we pitched our tents at a nearby empty lot and after that we went back to the beach to just chill. Unfortunately I wasn't able to join the others in their binge drinking spree because of my acid reflux so I just decided to play with my camera in an attempt to capture the starlit sky. And after a few clicks I was surprised to see not just stars but what appears to be a little preview of what the galaxy looks like on a clear night. At first I thought that these were just clouds but upon taking a closer look it dawned on me that it is in fact the Milky Way galaxy.</span></span><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/7741322914/" title="culebra by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="culebra" height="332" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7135/7741322914_9a87f00825.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/7741358604/" title="culebra by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="culebra" height="332" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7250/7741358604_676eb22d59.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/7741317372/" title="culebra by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="culebra" height="332" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8287/7741317372_9ea015cc54.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/7741326794/" title="culebra by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="culebra" height="332" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8432/7741326794_0c3ece7526.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">The next day we woke up late at around 8am already and headed to Colibra Island which is a 15 to 20-minute boat ride from Tambobong. I was actually surprised to see a lot of people so we decided to checkout the other side of the island where the current is much stronger and the views are much more spectacular. Earl went a little further to the edge of the rocks to check out the waves but I decided to stay back because the waves were undeniably strong and it would be too risky for me. And while he was comfortably standing at the edge, a series of big waves suddenly appeared smashing the chubby traveler to the rocks leaving him with a couple of bruises and with no eyeglasses. He was always the daredevil in the group so this freak accident wasn't surprising to me at all.</span></span><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/7741351144/" title="tambobong by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="tambobong" height="332" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8423/7741351144_b7e392a362.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/7741345842/" title="Dasol, Pangasinan by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="Dasol, Pangasinan" height="332" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7278/7741345842_be3dd24d0d.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Later on we went to the nearby Crocodile Island which offered panoramic vistas and amazing views of the South China Sea. There's no fine white sand however at this island but the lush greens and the crystal clear waters are definitely a good consolation especially for nature lovers and beach bums.</span></span><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/7741331590/" title="Dasol, Pangasinan by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="Dasol, Pangasinan" height="332" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8296/7741331590_3d33fd6fcd.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Having been to Bolinao and Hundred Islands already made me believe that I have seen the best of Pangasinan but upon seeing the beauty of Dasol, I am now more than convinced that there's a lot more to see in this province. Dasol is truly Pangasinan's hidden gem.</span></span>vinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00282010163305970753noreply@blogger.com1Dasol, Pangasinan15.977172621632809 119.8608398437515.732968621632809 119.54498284375 16.22137662163281 120.17669684375tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-304902675259764011.post-24904110277108790122012-08-04T11:15:00.000+08:002012-08-04T11:17:19.514+08:00UST: Food Tripping the Thomasian Way<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/7705358274/" title="ust food trip by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="ust food trip" height="332" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8281/7705358274_38c5ee1850.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: small;">No, I am not a Thomasian and neither is my good friend Cheng although we both once desired to become students of this prestigious university. But even though we never had the chance to study at "uste", we had the closest experience on what it's like being a UST student - by trying out the foods that they usually eat. The last time I had a food walk was when I invited my travel buddies <a href="http://www.byaherongbaboy.com/">Earl</a>, Ivy and <a href="http://www.roadsnrecipes.com/">Ronnie</a> to <a href="http://www.theworldbehindmywall.com/2011/05/up-diliman-food-haven.html">UP Diliman</a> and that was over a year ago. I usually go for the cheaper ones so I tried doing a little research online and found out that there are cheap food finds near UST. Good thing Mommy Cheng was just a few blocks away from the campus so I instantly had a buddy who can tour me around the UST area. It took us around three weeks to finally push through with the food trip because of the bad weather conditions but despite the occasional rains, it was all worth the wait.</span><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/7705155702/" title="Botsicake UST by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="Botsicake UST" height="332" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7115/7705155702_d0f076df6d.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/7705159100/" title="Botsicake UST by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="Botsicake UST" height="332" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8163/7705159100_762aacc9ed.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: small;">The first stop on our food walk is the Botsicake food stall which is located just outside the P. Noval gate of UST. At first I thought that they have like chairs and tables but I was surprised to know that they simply have a small stall just like the fishball or qwek-qwek vendors along the street. Botsicake sells Japanese cakes that are freshly made at a very affordable price. They have the cheese flavour which only costs Php6 per piece while the Oreo and the mallow flavours are priced at Php10. I find the Oreo Japanese cake to be the most delicious one as the Oreo cookie is cooked in between two botchi cakes making the cookie soft and sweet at the same time. I ate 1 cheese and 2 Oreo flavoured Japanese cakes and oh boy it was such a delight.</span><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/7705163610/" title="French Toast UST by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="French Toast UST" height="640" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8164/7705163610_9737fe2d43_z.jpg" width="425" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: small;">We passed by several interesting food stalls and restaurants along Dapitan St. but the one that caught our attention is the French Toast stall in front of 7-Eleven. Unfortunately we didn't get to try their french toasts but they sure are tempting especially that they only cost from Php20 to Php25.</span><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/7705168026/" title="Tea Zone UST by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="Tea Zone UST" height="332" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8422/7705168026_3f3ff3076c.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/7705172944/" title="Tea Zone UST by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="Tea Zone UST" height="332" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7114/7705172944_ff51fc4fc6.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: small;">The stall however that we weren't able to resist is Tea Zone which is also along Dapitan. They have a plethora of flavours to choose from and you can get two shakes at a price range of Php48 to Php65. We decided to order the Taro flavour and I must say that their shakes are very tasty for such a low price.</span><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/7705181456/" title="Mang Tootz by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="Mang Tootz" height="332" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8020/7705181456_4478c3fe26.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/7705184318/" title="Mang Tootz meal by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="Mang Tootz meal" height="332" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8164/7705184318_2f87b1917f.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: small;">After reaching the end of Dapitan we went back to P. Noval St. to eat lunch at Mang Tootz which is already known to be an institution in the UST area. This popular carinderia has tables and chairs lined up along the sidewalks but now they are allowed to occupy half of the street since it is currently closed due to the on-going road constructions. The friendly staff would already put a glass filled with ice and a pitcher of water even before you're done ordering your food so service is really fast when you are going to eat at this place. What's interesting though is the way they serve the food that you are going to order from them. They don't use any trays and just stack up everything on the plate so better have good balancing skills when you're going to order a lot.
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/7705177312/" title="Mang Tootz by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="Mang Tootz" height="332" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8010/7705177312_0608c63eca.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/7705188444/" title="Mang Tootz Banana-rhuma by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="Mang Tootz Banana-rhuma" height="332" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8166/7705188444_f755eb7908.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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A meal at this carinderia only costs around Php50 complete with 1 cup of rice and soup. I ordered pork stroganoff while Cheng chose the pork chop stuffed with cheese. I was also able to try the ever famous Banana-rhum-a which happens to be their specialty dessert. It's similar to the traditional turon but what's special about their version is their sauce which is made of pineapple rhum and banana flavor. To make it even more special, they generously sprinkle it with cinnamon powder and sesame seeds. And the price? Just Php10 for 3 pieces of this heavenly dessert.</span><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/7705192754/" title="Coffee Indulgence, UST food trip by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="Coffee Indulgence, UST food trip" height="332" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7267/7705192754_a92d56fd63.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/7705195872/" title="Coffee Indulgence, UST food trip by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="Coffee Indulgence, UST food trip" height="332" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8168/7705195872_818b437146.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: small;">It continued to rain after we left Mang Tootz so we decided to look for a place that has chairs and tables where we can just sit and wait for the rain to stop. At first we thought of going to Mini Stop but since we were actually going on a food walk we decided to go to Coffee Indulgence instead which is located right in front of the P. Noval exit. Cheng ordered the Oreo shake while I ordered the vanilla strawberry. Most of their coffees and shakes are reasonably priced from Php35 to Php70. They also serve Italian food like pizza, pasta and calzone which are priced around the Php50 budget.</span><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/7705201086/" title="bbq alley, UST food trip by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="bbq alley, UST food trip" height="332" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8431/7705201086_4d817ef40d.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: small;">Cheng told me that if there's one thing that I shouldn't miss when going on a food trip in UST then it would be the BBQ alley. It's a long strip of barbecue stalls that opens from 4pm to 12am. Tables and chairs usually line up on the street around 6pm to so they could cater to the university students who are living around the area. But aside from their barbeques, there are also other options like pork ears, hotdogs, isaw, siomai, bologna and even tofu, all grilled to perfection.
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/7705209330/" title="bbq alley, UST food trip by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="bbq alley, UST food trip" height="640" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8151/7705209330_7e9e8154ab_z.jpg" width="425" /></a></div>
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Cheng brought me to one of the pioneer barbeque stalls which is right in front of the sari-sari store with a big Selecta ice cream chest outside. She highly recommends this place for their sauces and also because this is the only stall that offers fresh grilled tofu. I was able to try it and also their isaw which both costs Php5 per stick and it really tastes good especially with their signature sauce.</span><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/7705213540/" title="palabok, UST food trip by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="palabok, UST food trip" height="332" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7132/7705213540_c98bf055e7.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/7705217522/" title="palabok, UST food trip by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="palabok, UST food trip" height="332" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7123/7705217522_06a49edd83.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: small;">For our last stop, we visited a food cart along P. Campa St. that serves palabok and baked mac for just Php25. It may be cheap but it's definitely like not the ordinary ones that you can order at any food stall. I was able to try their palabok and I noticed that they generously put a lot of ingredients and a very delicious sauce on it. Unfortunately, the baked mac wasn't available so Cheng just ordered the same. She wasn't surprised though because according to her, this usually happens for a lot of people line up at this food cart just to order their specialties so most of the time their food are almost gone before merienda time is over.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: small;">And that concludes our 6 hours of food tripping around the UST area. There's still a lot of bang for the buck food stalls near the campus so if you'll ever be somewhere near the area, go ahead and try out some their specialties. You'll surely have a gastronomic experience like we did!</span>vinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00282010163305970753noreply@blogger.com20P. Noval, Manila, Philippines14.609633280662864 120.9866058826446514.609153280662865 120.98598888264465 14.610113280662864 120.98722288264466tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-304902675259764011.post-54286186570627276932012-07-30T18:57:00.000+08:002013-02-16T10:25:50.752+08:00Fortune Island: A Patch of Greece in Batangas<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/7674813314/" title="fortune island by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="fortune island" height="332" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8165/7674813314_7f30eb4979.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Got seasick, drenched by the rain to the point of getting hypothermia and was stranded in the middle of the sea battling waves as high as 10 feet for 3 hours just to see this Greek-like island off the coast of Nasugbu. Oh and I was still wearing my suit on the boat ride back to mainland since I am already wet. Read on to know more about this story.</span></span><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/7674816414/" title="fortune island by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="fortune island" height="332" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7123/7674816414_73fc1571b7.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/7674820156/" title="fortune island by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="fortune island" height="332" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8001/7674820156_45b95347bb.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I was browsing a forum about Batangas when I stumbled upon a photo of an island that has an acropolis with Grecian statues and pillars overlooking the West Philippine Sea - Fortune Island. I've already seen a lot of different beaches here in the country but I must admit that this island in Nasugbu, Batangas is definitely unique. Even my friend Ghe was so amazed that's why we suggested this to be the location of our annual group event for our anniversary along with other fellow travelers who wanted to join us.</span></span><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/7674850664/" title="fortune island by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="fortune island" height="332" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7265/7674850664_04ff835edc.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">The trip was actually fun as always having Ghe around and my other travel buddies but the boat ride to the island wasn't. Upon reaching the port of Nasugbu we were welcomed by huge waves and doubted if the plan will push through. However, the boatmen guaranteed that their boats can take us to the island but since it was already the monsoon season, the waves will be more rough and that it could take longer than an hour to reach our destination. And so the grueling 2-hour boat ride started. The first 30 minutes already gave us an adrenaline rush and a series of panic attacks because the waves were really strong and by far the worse that I have ever experienced. There were even a few times that I really thought that the boat could have capsized but we were so thankful that it didn't happen. The next 90 minutes was still hell because a lot of my travel buddies were actually throwing up due to seasickness. I was close to throwing up as well but I just kept calm and just looked straight into the island to overcome my motion sickness. And as the boat docked into the shore, I shouted on the top of my lungs for surviving the most treacherous boat ride I have ever had.</span></span><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/7674823122/" title="fortune island by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="fortune island" height="332" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8282/7674823122_b5363f3bbd.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/7674826732/" title="fortune island by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="fortune island" height="332" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7271/7674826732_35cb690795.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I was able to talk to one of the caretakers and he told me that it was previously owned by former Batangas Governor Tony Leviste and that a posh resort was built on the island which is only exclusive to celebrities and only a chosen few but now it is currently owned by a Korean who seems to be very strict in giving out permits to those who would like to visit the island. I only could imagine how the resort looked like during its pristine condition and that it could even rival other expensive resorts like Bellarocca or Sumilon if only it wasn't shut down in 2006. Unfortunately the place is now totally dilapidated and the once exclusive island is now an abandoned luxury resort. It's like seeing an empire that has slipped into decadence and destruction. The only remaining attraction in the island was the acropolis that was still standing at the edge of a cliff but upon seeing the structure, I could tell that it might not last for another decade because the pillars are quickly deteriorating from rusts and cracks.</span></span><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/7674858112/" title="bakasyonistas at fortune island by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="bakasyonistas at fortune island" height="376" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8291/7674858112_90c4645fd1.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Since our trip got delayed and the impending waves in the afternoon are more threatening, the caretaker of the island advised us to stay for less than 2 hours and head back to mainland to avoid getting stranded. And so we used our time wisely to change into our outfits as fast as we can and took photos as the skies were just partly cloudy. Unfortunately 2 hours is not enough and to make it worse, it started to rain but that didn't spoil our shoot as most of us just played around under the rain while still wearing our suits and gowns.</span></span><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/7674857336/" title="bakasyonistas at fortune island by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="bakasyonistas at fortune island" height="332" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8421/7674857336_bb1c3f5a32.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Now here comes the most memorable part of the trip, the boat ride back to mainland. We thought the boat ride to Fortune Island was the worst that we ever had but the trip back to Nasugbu port was worse. Way worse. And since I was already wet, I decided not to change so I was still wearing my suit while we were on our way back to mainland. The boat didn't have any roof to protect us from the rain so all of us got drenched to the point of getting hypothermia. I could even remember Gina shaking so I tried to cover her with the suit that I was wearing and all of us just kept calm as we battled the waves that reached as high as 10 feet. And so I told myself, "Relax, just wait for an hour and we will be okay." but unfortunately we were not even in the vicinity of the word "okay" because the rudder that is used to cause the vessel to change its course broke and to make matters worse, it happened in the middle of the sea so we were going around in circles for more than 2 hours as the waves got bigger and bigger. There was a point that I was actually thinking that we were all going to die so I just told myself, "at least I'm going to die wearing a suit!" Fortunately that didn't happen because our boatmen were skillful in steering the vessel even though the rudder was broken and thankfully there were a group of people who helped us dock back to the port safely.</span></span><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/7674857560/" title="fortune island by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="fortune island" height="332" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8148/7674857560_f222b2fe69.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I couldn't be thankful enough that we survived that grueling ordeal but if there's one lesson learned from this experience, it's to always take caution when you're traveling especially if it's by sea during the monsoon season. That trip to Fortune Island may not have stopped me from continuing my passion for traveling but it did made me a more responsible traveler.</span></span>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; font-size: small;"><strong>How to get there:</strong></span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; font-size: small;">It is important to contact Mang Dante (09394895292) first so you can secure a permit (Php300 landing fee per head) and hire a boatman that will take you back and forth to Fortune Island. Hiring a boat will cost around Php3000 for 12 persons. Be sure to keep the receipt because the caretaker will look for it before they allow you to enter the island. Once that is settled, you can choose to either drive by private car or just take a bus bound for Nasugbu early in the morning and ask to be dropped off at Jollibee Nasugbu Branch where Mang Dante usually meets up with his customers.</span>vinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00282010163305970753noreply@blogger.com28Nasugbu, Philippines14.0666667 120.633333313.943447200000001 120.4754048 14.1898862 120.7912618tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-304902675259764011.post-4076498539824174592012-07-15T11:44:00.000+08:002012-07-15T11:44:21.639+08:00The World Behind My Wall: The Beginning<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/7572108698/" title="the world behind my wall by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7250/7572108698_1c48aa3cd2.jpg" width="500" height="332" alt="the world behind my wall"></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: small;">My passion for traveling started in 2007 when I went on a trip to <a href="http://www.theworldbehindmywall.com/2010/12/sunburn-at-puerto-galera.html">Puerto Galera</a> with my AskMeNow officemates. Back then I still didn't have the passion for writing or even taking pictures. I was still young (well not that young), naive, careless and inexperienced with everything. I already had a blog back then but most of the entries that I post where just copy-pasted from forwarded emails that I find interesting or anything under the sun. It was mostly non-sense and just for fun.</span><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/7572110956/" title="the world behind my wall by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8016/7572110956_f4ed43bd61.jpg" width="500" height="332" alt="the world behind my wall"></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: small;">Fast forward to 2010, the year when my love for travel was reignited. I met a lot of interesting people including the Bakasyonistas and learned a lot of things with every journey that I shared with them. I could even remember having at least 2 trips each month and with every trip I become less of what I was before. I became a better person. But there was one destination where I finally had the realization of starting a travel blog - Bandar Seri Begawan in Brunei Darussalam.</span><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/7572109582/" title="the world behind my wall by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8009/7572109582_520818d7ea.jpg" width="500" height="332" alt="the world behind my wall"></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: small;">Brunei was my second trip overseas and during this time, the art of backpacking was still new to me. I was a newbie in terms of budgeting and it was actually my first time to try living in a hostel. It's a good thing that I got to share this trip with Tin who knows how to travel on a shoestring and loves the sense of adventure. And while we were killing time in a coffee shop somewhere near the Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque, it hit me: Why not start my own travel blog? A memento of all my trips written with love and devotion as I share it with the rest of the world. I always love to write but the problem back then was that I never had a niche. And now I finally know what it is - <a href="http://www.theworldbehindmywall.com/2012/03/traveling-only-addiction-thats-good-for.html">traveling</a>.</span><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/5782176090/" title="Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque, Bandar Seri Begawan by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque, Bandar Seri Begawan" height="332" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5302/5782176090_6dcb204351.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: small;">Ok, so now I want to start a travel blog but what would I name it? A lot of ideas went through my head at that moment and while Tin and I were waiting for the cheesecake that we ordered from the cafe, they played Tokio Hotel's "World Behind My Wall". </span><br /><br />
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<i><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: small;">"Whoa, whoa. They're telling me it's beautiful. I believe them but will I ever know. The world behind my wall?"</span></i></blockquote>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: small;">Voila, The World Behind My Wall was born. The lyrics, especially the chorus part was the reason why I chose to name the blog after this beautifully composed song. It's like the person keeps on hearing about a world which is so great, something which he truly believes is real but wonders if he will ever know what it is because there's a wall that hinders him from seeing it. And for him to see the world behind this wall, he needs to break free and take risks to learn and discover new things in life.</span><br /><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/6577108783/" title="The World Behind My Wall 2011 by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="The World Behind My Wall 2011" height="375" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7163/6577108783_364e03472e.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br /><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: small;">A week later after our trip to Brunei I logged on to Blogger, purchased my very own domain and here I am today, still continuing the passion of sharing my travel stories through this blog. I am very grateful to all the feedbacks and the messages that I am getting from people that I don't even know telling me how this blog has helped them also realize their love for traveling. And to be recognized as one of the finalists for the <a href="http://www.philippineblogawards.com.ph/2011/12/01/finalists-for-travel-category-national-level/">2011 Philippine Blog Awards</a> for the Travel Category National Level was something that I never expected. These recognitions have inspired me more to continue writing about my love for traveling. It keeps me alive and grounded.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: small;">For me, traveling is not just about discovering new places, adventures, ideas and inspiration. It teaches you more about yourself and the amazing things that you can do just to get there. How far can you go? How long does it take? The curiosity can take you to places you never dreamed possible. And as I continue on with this journey, I intend to continue writing these travel stories and share it through this online memento - The World Behind My Wall.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://langyaw.com/pinoy-travel-bloggerss-blog-carnival/"><img alt="Pinoy Travel Bloggers Blog Carnival" height="172" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7140/6973718822_17c77c3f39_m.jpg" width="150" /></a></span></div>
</td><td><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></td><td><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: small;">This is my entry to the July Blog Carnival hosted by Edmar Gu-Quibb of <a href="http://www.edmaration.com/">Edmaration</a> on the topic "The Journey That Made Us a Travel Blogger".<br /><br />To see the archive of Pinoy Travel Bloggers’ Blog Carnival <a href="http://langyaw.com/pinoy-travel-bloggerss-blog-carnival/">click here</a>.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>vinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00282010163305970753noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-304902675259764011.post-561270764640498502012-07-12T18:05:00.000+08:002012-07-13T02:21:00.775+08:00Countryside Retreats in the UK: Glastonbury<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://www.peterguy.merseyblogs.co.uk/SHOWBIZ%20Glastonbury%201_644.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://www.peterguy.merseyblogs.co.uk/SHOWBIZ%20Glastonbury%201_644.jpg" title="photo credit: Peter Guy (http://www.peterguy.merseyblogs.co.uk)" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: small;">When you first hear the word Glastonbury, most people envisage the massively popular Glastonbury festival that is held in the village of Pilton. If muddy fields and festival experience aren’t your bag, there’s lots more to this area that will appeal.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: small;">A perfect location for a weekend away this summer, Glastonbury and its surrounding areas are an ideal alternative to the rat race.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: small;">Notable for its links to Arthurian legend and the Holy Grail, give yourself plenty of time to explore all that it has to offer. Take your time ambling </span><a href="http://www.glastonburytor.org.uk/"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: small;">Glastonbury Tor</span></a><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: small;"> – make sure to wrap up warm, it gets rather breezy at the top! Avoid the crowds by making an early start and be rewarded by absolutely spectacular views of the surroundings. Take some snaps of St Michael’s Tower – a roofless medieval church at the top of the Tor. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: small;">Explore the ruins of Glastonbury Abbey – a monastery founded in the 7th century. The whole area of Glastonbury was frequently linked with Arthurian legend, often believed to be Avalon, the land of the fairies. Excellent restoration efforts have been completed to try and maintain as much of this monument’s beauty as possible to ensure future visitors can explore and appreciate as much as possible. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: small;">Wander down Wellhouse Lane to the </span><a href="http://www.chalicewell.org.uk/"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: small;">Chalice Well</span></a><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: small;">. Tranquil and beautiful, you can see why the area has remained sacred to Christians and Pagans alike. Sample the White Spring Well water to revitalise yourself and be at one with nature in this very special place. If you’re into meditation, take the opportunity to leave all your stresses behind. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: small;">After your day of discovery, </span><a href="http://www.travelodge.co.uk/hotels/336/Glastonbury-hotel"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: small;">Travelodge Glastonbury hotels</span></a><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: small;"> would be a perfect place to relax and continue your voyage of tranquillity. With the attractions all within a mile of the hotel, you don’t need to travel far to rest well.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: small;"></span>vinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00282010163305970753noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-304902675259764011.post-16700669356702350142012-07-06T17:49:00.000+08:002012-07-06T18:04:15.866+08:00Kabang: A Salute to the Canine Heroine<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/7442848810/" title="Kabang the Hero Dog by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="Kabang the Hero Dog" height="332" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5116/7442848810_6b90e34885.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: small;">Meet Kabang, the courageous canine hero who lost her upper snout after saving two girls from being hit by a speeding motorcycle. Her heroic act was featured in the news for several weeks and her story touched the hearts of many people including yours truly. Seeing her wasn't actually part of the itinerary when we visited Zamboanga City but it turned out to be one of the best highlights of our trip to Asia's Latin city. It was only then when I had learned that the heroine dog was actually just less than a few kilometers away from where we are staying.</span><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/7442838696/" title="Kabang the Hero Dog by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="Kabang the Hero Dog" height="332" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8151/7442838696_6765e3bf12.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: small;">After finishing our dessert at Myrna's Bake House in Pueblo, we asked the staff from the bakeshop if they happen to know where we could find this dog. Fortunately they know where she is and they were kind enough to show us the directions and even fetched us a tricycle to take us to Nunez St. And after a 15-minute ride, we finally arrived at the vulcanizing shop where Kabang is. She's very shy though and I couldn't even see her face at first because she keeps on lowering her head from us. Guess she's still not used to getting the attention of many people around her.</span><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/7442832934/" title="Kabang the Hero Dog by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="Kabang the Hero Dog" height="332" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7137/7442832934_9d5fdc9f13.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: small;">Admittedly, I am a person who's not used to seeing blood or open wounds and couldn't even tolerate seeing one but upon meeting Kabang, I never experienced any form disgust at all or even got scared with her condition. What I only felt was sympathy for the dog and all that I wanted to do during that moment was to hug her. Even my travel buddy and fellow Bakasyonista Ghe never grossed out with Kabang's appearance.</span><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/7442843806/" title="Kabang the Hero Dog by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="Kabang the Hero Dog" height="640" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8156/7442843806_370ce554b4_z.jpg" width="425" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: small;">I got to talk to one of the locals (He's the one with the cap. Sorry, I forgot his name) but according to him, Kabang not only saved the lives of his master's daughter and niece but her popularity also paved the way for his owner, Mang Rudy to finally reunite with his long lost mother after not seeing her for 41 years! It was said that Mang Rudy's mother thought that he was already dead after he left home but after seeing him on the news that featured Kabang, she was surprised to know that he is still alive and the rest is a sweet family reunion. Truly this dog is heaven sent.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: small;">We stayed at the vulcanizing shop for about an hour and was surprised to see a lot of people coming over to visit her. It's touching to see a lot of them bringing food and giving donations for the dog owner and his family but what's surprising is that Mang Rudy only gives the food to his canine heroine and they never consumed any of it. He says the dog deserves all the treatment and the rewards since it was her that saved him and his family.</span><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/7442853310/" title="Kabang the Hero Dog by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="Kabang the Hero Dog" height="332" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7248/7442853310_fd239b2978.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: small;">Seeing the pink sands of Great Sta. Cruz island was supposed to be the main highlight of my trip to Zamboanga but getting the chance to finally meet this heroine dog definitely tops it off. I'm actually not the type of traveler who goes to see the popular tourist spots with the purpose of taking pictures of it so I can just post in on Facebook. What defines me as a traveler is to experience various types of cultures and meet different types of people which is way more valuable than anything else. And to be humbled upon seeing Kabang in person is definitely the one of the main reasons why that trip to Zamboanga will always be memorable to me.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: small;"><b>Latest news about Kabang:</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: small;">Kabang has already given birth to 6 puppies and is now under the custody of the Animal Welfare Coalition. She is scheduled to be flown to the US for surgery in an effort to fix her upper snout and give the proper treatment to her wounds so that she could live longer. Let us pray for her successful operation and sooner recovery.</span>vinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00282010163305970753noreply@blogger.com22Zamboanga City, Philippines7.024267 122.18890356.7721165 121.8730465 7.2764175 122.50476049999999tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-304902675259764011.post-72766860265506665552012-06-29T11:33:00.000+08:002012-06-29T11:33:48.604+08:00HeadWare: More Than Just a Headwear<div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; font-size: small">
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/7251084350/" title="HeadWare by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="HeadWare" height="332" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7077/7251084350_03fd8ecd05.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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I always wear a shemagh whenever I'm on a trip and I use it for a number of reasons. It keeps me from getting sunburns especially on my nape which I think now is 5 tones darker than my skin colour since I started traveling. Vanity-wise it also adds a sense of fashion because it complements most of the clothes that I wear.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/7461790394/" title="headware by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="headware" height="332" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8004/7461790394_4fd1b6f6c6.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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Then came HeadWare, an all-purpose head accessory that has now become the new essential for travelers and people on the go. The first time I saw this headwear, my first reaction was "err, it's just a piece of cloth". But I was surprised to know that it was more than just a cloth upon reading the instructions on the package. According to their website, this accessory has as many uses as your imagination can come up with and they currently have about 20!<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/7461787230/" title="headware by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="headware" height="332" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8005/7461787230_f3bc25c885.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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The first time I tried the HeadWare, it felt like I was touching a very fine piece of cloth. It's because it is made of high quality fabric that is stretchable so it can be used for a variety of purposes. I actually made it as a good replacement for my scarf and so far I am loving it. I also use it as a sleeping mask whenever I am on the plane or on the bus to cover my eyes so I can get a good sleep while I'm on the road or in the air. And I don't needo t worry about suffocating because it's breathable so air easily passes on the fabric.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/7251080696/" title="HeadWare by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="HeadWare" height="332" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8163/7251080696_ab28a51a63.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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It also adds a little bit of style when I use it as an armband or a headband and the good thing about it is that it goes well with almost any type of clothes that I wear when traveling. My good friend Earl of <a href="http://www.byaherongbaboy.com/">Byaherong Baboy</a> also gave it a try when we were at Burot Beach in Calatagan, Batangas and he loved it! And being the far more vain traveler than I am, he finds the HeadWare to be a good travel accessory.<br />
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I sometimes bring my HeadWare to the office as a replacement for my scarf to cover up my neck and use it as a warmer. You see, the airconditioning in the office is not quite set right, where it's so cold you're forced to wear winter clothes and accessories just to survive your 9 hour shift. And this is where I find this accessory very handy. When it's very cold, I just slip it up to my neck and when the temperature goes up I just wrap it in my arm and wear it as an armband. Voila, an instant arm accessory!<br />
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HeadWare is definitely one of the travel essentials that I'd recommend for you to have. And because it has so many purposes, this piece of cloth is more than just a headwear.<br />
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If you want to know the other things that you could do with your HeadWare, do watch the instructional video above starring Rovilson Fernandez.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/7251076710/" title="HeadWare by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="HeadWare" height="332" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8166/7251076710_6498dc8d2e.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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I also got to try their visor which I found to be very useful especially on my beach trips. Unlike the usual sunvisors, HeadWare has a flexible Neoprene visor that is easy to slip on the bag so doesn't easily deform. I liked the lengthy cloth attached to it because it also serves as a protection to my hair and my overly sensitive nape as well.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/7461784228/" title="headware visor by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="headware visor" height="332" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8151/7461784228_40f2c25606.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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I believe this is also a good accessory for the ladies especially if they want to protect their hair from the heat of the sun so girls, you better check this one out.
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So do you want to have your own HeadWare? Here's some good news for you. You can win a free HeadWare by simply joining their <a href="http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=298387726844840&set=a.267451486605131.92306.146479128702368&type=3">Facebook campaign</a>.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/7461790756/" title="headware promo by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="headware promo" height="500" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7107/7461790756_19c23b07d0.jpg" width="422" /></a></div>
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Here's how to join:</div>
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1. Like the <a href="http://www.facebook.com/the.headware">Headware Fan Page</a>.<br />
2. Post “Headware keeps my head happy!” as your status message then tag the Headware Page and 5 of your friends in order to qualify. The post should be visible on the your wall and Headware Page’s wall.</div>
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And once they reach the significant numbers, one winner will receive 4 products (3,000 mark) and 5 products (5,000 mark). Everyone who entered before they reached the 1,000 mark are eligible so there's no need to re-enter. One entry per person only.</div>
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This is their way of saying thank you for helping them reach 1,000 likes so let's help them reach for 3,000 and 5,000 together!</div>
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<b>The HeadWare</b><br />
Official Site: <a href="http://www.theheadware.com/">http://www.theheadware.com</a><br />
Facebook: <a href="http://www.facebook.com/the.headware">http://www.facebook.com/the.headware</a></div></div>vinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00282010163305970753noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-304902675259764011.post-27110078353637311302012-05-23T13:36:00.000+08:002013-02-14T18:54:47.488+08:00Bakasyonista: 2 Years and Counting<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/7250667330/" title="bakasyonistas at cagbalete (photo by Ryan Alonzo) on Flickr"><img alt="bakasyonistas at cagbalete (photo by Ryan Alonzo)" height="333" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7090/7250667330_f628681bec.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: small;">It started with an all-white theme at <a href="http://www.theworldbehindmywall.com/2011/05/cagbalete-define-low-tide.html"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; font-size: small;">Cagbalete Island</span></a> in Quezon.</span><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/6150030000/" title="bakasyonista by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="bakasyonista" height="332" src="http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6087/6150030000_c9c7eff2e5.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: small;">Then an all-black theme at <a href="http://www.theworldbehindmywall.com/2013/02/guisi-beach-rocks-rocks-and-more-rocks.html"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; font-size: small;">Guisi Beach</span></a> in Guimaras a year later.</span><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/7461969072/" title="bakasyonistas at fortune island, nasugbu, batangas by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8007/7461969072_0329354bbc.jpg" width="500" height="332" alt="bakasyonistas at fortune island, nasugbu, batangas"></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: small;">And recently we just entered our third year with an elegant theme at <a href="http://www.theworldbehindmywall.com/2012/07/fortune-island-patch-of-greece-in.html"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; font-size: small;">Fortune Island</span></a> in Batangas.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: small;">Cheers to the people who introduced me to backpacking, mountain climbing, vouchers, seat sales, couchsurfing and even hitch-hiking.</span>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: small;">Happy 2nd anniversary Bakasyonistas! We may not travel much together as we used to but I will always be thankful and proud that my passion for traveling started with you guys.</span>vinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00282010163305970753noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-304902675259764011.post-85894411248854435242012-05-13T20:50:00.000+08:002013-01-31T23:43:57.455+08:00Traveling With Your Mom: A Mother's Day Special<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhny5E5CsNebpd_7z2ntG-qw6Ka6tf3gv7HoxQjOzOfWb2qx4ex-i8JyoSnNl2dTiDqITVpw01OuSKwVEZEiE5eIAI54H6JS7l6RON23qypX3JvoqA-xapgswH5yMDdt6REJu1ZHo-3HXg/s500/DSC_0046c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhny5E5CsNebpd_7z2ntG-qw6Ka6tf3gv7HoxQjOzOfWb2qx4ex-i8JyoSnNl2dTiDqITVpw01OuSKwVEZEiE5eIAI54H6JS7l6RON23qypX3JvoqA-xapgswH5yMDdt6REJu1ZHo-3HXg/s640/DSC_0046c.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: small;">It takes someone really brave to hike the tallest mountains for days, but it takes someone even braver to carry a baby for 9 months. One has to have the guts to travel solo but it requires even more for someone who is raising a child. Being a traveler can be very rewarding but nothing can ever beat the rewards of being a mother. This May, 20 of the country's travel bloggers unite to pay homage their moms on this very special day.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUkMV-n8jPBFgtoUnh6C6VHaLNeOH2Wa0qvUoWWzH8yabbq634MnxNsvtn12kE0MMmdL01G7G04_XptfkQXdMsYNgcrLxe-K85oX3alZOHy4_DwRjA7sQBxl3PHEujsOHeak0PK4QT2ao/s1600/nanay+and+me+movie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUkMV-n8jPBFgtoUnh6C6VHaLNeOH2Wa0qvUoWWzH8yabbq634MnxNsvtn12kE0MMmdL01G7G04_XptfkQXdMsYNgcrLxe-K85oX3alZOHy4_DwRjA7sQBxl3PHEujsOHeak0PK4QT2ao/s200/nanay+and+me+movie.jpg" width="200" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: small;">Marie Villadolid of <a href="http://superhappytotravel.blogspot.com/2012/05/traveling-with-your-mom-mothers-day.html">Happy Travels</a> shares a heartwarming letter to her Nanay Viring. Other travelers complain that it would be difficult to travel with a senior citizen since they can't easily keep up with the young traveler's pace but for Marie, it's a far cry from raising three kids and taking on the full responsibility as a mother. At a very young age Marie promised her Nanay Viring to take her to different places now she's finally making it happen. They've been to Hong Kong, Macau, Davao and this June they are booked for another getaway - Boracay! Marie may not have her real mom beside her but she's greatful enough to have the best grandmother who supersedes the role of a mother and even supports her passion for traveling.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nAqZWvisof8/T6E-ruCbzrI/AAAAAAAABuY/AKVA2_VLFdI/s640/Sg1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nAqZWvisof8/T6E-ruCbzrI/AAAAAAAABuY/AKVA2_VLFdI/s200/Sg1.jpg" width="200" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: small;">For <a href="http://www.excursionista.net/2012/05/my-first-ever-travel-buddy-mothers-day.html">Excursionista</a> Kat Torres, her mom was her very first travel buddy and at the age of 4 months she already had her first trip to Baguio. Mommy was little strict though as she recalls her cousins would poke fun at her because she couldn’t go anywhere without her mom's permission and even out-of-town trips with friends aren't allowed until she was already working. But now that she's all grown up, she has finally embraced being an Excursionista while still getting the usual text messages from her mom like "Asan ka na?", "Anong oras ka uuwi?" or "Anong oras flight mo?" What's cool about Kat's mom is that she has become supportive of her travels. In fact mommy even pushed Kat to go on with her Indochina trip even though it was just a little over a month after her mom had her last chemotherapy. She believes that they'd rather invest on experiences than any material possessions and as long as they have roof on their heads, can eat three times a day and able to pay the bills on time then they are okay.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5463/7149065005_23627ee7a1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="132" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5463/7149065005_23627ee7a1.jpg" width="200" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: small;">Chino of <a href="http://www.juanderfulpinoy.com/2012/05/supermoon/">Juandeful Pinoy</a> was only on his second grade when his mom left the country to work as a teacher overseas and it was unbearable for someone so young to see his mother leaving. But now he finally realized why she had to leave them and seek for a better job - to give them a better life. He once asked his mom if he could ever touch or reach the moon as it was following me him wherever he went. He did not really get the answer that he wanted to hear but what his mom only told him is that because he was special. Now that he's all grown up, he still enjoys staring at the moon at night. The feeling of craziness is still there whenever he looks at the moon wrapped with shining stars guiding him wherever he goes. Chino has traveled to so many places alone but he made a promise to bring his mom in one of his trips soon. Just recently, he finally got to see the supermoon, the biggest and the brightest full moon of the year but for Chino, his 'Mama' will always be his real supermoon.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8145/6994659734_1ccd86b5be.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="170" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8145/6994659734_1ccd86b5be.jpg" width="200" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: small;">Josiah Sicad of <a href="http://www.lakas.com.ph/2012/05/anak-bumili-ka-ng-kape/">Lakas ng Trip</a> knows that his mother happily hassled herself just to raise him and his brother so whenever she says "Anak, bumili ka ng kape" he would gladly hassle himself to buy her favorite coffee even if he has to go all the way to Sagada. When Josiah's mother learned that he was going to Hungduan, Ifugao for a travel project, she asked him to buy her coffee for pasalubong. And it's not just an ordinary coffee, she specifically wants the one from Sagada. He could have easily said no to his mother on buying this coffee and just tell her that it would be quite a hassle to go all the way to Bana's Coffee where he could find the authentic ones but Josiah knows that this is just a little thing compared to what his mother did for him. The 2 kilos of coffee on his backpack is nothing compared to the burden that he has given his mom when he make mistakes and even worse when he made the really big mistake of getting angry at her. Josiah is proud to say that his mom has done a great job in raising him well and the least he could do is grow up the way she wanted him to be and make her smile by simple gestures like buying her coffee even if he has to travel more than 13 hours from Manila just to get it.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_r4UDhhoMtGaW-izb-szyDQ45cm9AtCpMWPPRgRJwdH4KEDfWqGK5EZtc6-ORRjBX2XIXH4M0b9ZHuB81X5UvTKuWloXEs8GwEoOHvQRmM-gUliVZk9mqEcGmPiWr9IpVCMOqzUK955Lz/s550/IMG_6377.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_r4UDhhoMtGaW-izb-szyDQ45cm9AtCpMWPPRgRJwdH4KEDfWqGK5EZtc6-ORRjBX2XIXH4M0b9ZHuB81X5UvTKuWloXEs8GwEoOHvQRmM-gUliVZk9mqEcGmPiWr9IpVCMOqzUK955Lz/s200/IMG_6377.JPG" width="149" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: small;">On the lighter side, Maricar Villanueva, also known as <a href="http://kurapengpeng.blogspot.com/2012/05/traveling-with-original-kuracha-my-mom.html">Kura</a> shares her wacky mother-and-daughter affair in Baguio, Guimaras, Bacolod, Quezon, Bohol and Cebu. Kura probably has coolest mom ever. She has the guts to wear a two-piece at the age of 55 and can even beat her daughter in having her own sense of adventure. And who says you can't be a model when you're already at your 50's? Kura shared that Ma got an invitation to be a model and was out of town for quite a few days. Looks like the apple never fell far from the tree after all. And by the way, this cool tandem is set for another adventure on August and this time in Boracay so if by chance you'll be there and you see a wacky mother and daughter duo having a photoshoot somewhere in the beach then it's probably Kura and her cool mom.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCzRm1T1P7SZPcj1HESLNx5N7-IHDhZ4vQut84HLdhyQWkw0PiCSC7JYE_o3MzlK3b71pB6oQeEvs_IyPSfDpakG66vFeK6fCgFp0W_uuGGzIsUNQ10Mr6PLlbvj8qEuMpq46HacOkNPZP/s1600/Photo3242.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCzRm1T1P7SZPcj1HESLNx5N7-IHDhZ4vQut84HLdhyQWkw0PiCSC7JYE_o3MzlK3b71pB6oQeEvs_IyPSfDpakG66vFeK6fCgFp0W_uuGGzIsUNQ10Mr6PLlbvj8qEuMpq46HacOkNPZP/s200/Photo3242.jpg" width="150" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: small;">Joel Catimbang of <a href="http://balance31.blogspot.com/2012/04/cagayan-de-oro-touching-story-of-candle.html">Traveling Balance</a> shares a touching story of a candle vendor that he met while he was on an assignment in Cagayan de Oro city. While he was busy taking pictures at a church, he bumped into an old woman who has been selling candles for almost five years. Joel had the chance to talk to her and learned that she is a mother of two daughters who was left by her husband for another woman. Unfortunately, her daughters had the same fate as hers and now she has accepted the responsibility of raising her grandchildren as well. What's interesting though is that despite of what happened and being less-fortunate, the candle vendor remains to have a positive outlook in life. Joel sees a selfless mother who gladly accepts her responsibilities and will proudly show to the world how she loves her children which also reminds him of his own mom.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC9NAngtsPxnVtKEKDEDk9NyFlCDwHD5HPFPDgpOifA6xPNRQebw0tUVgEtljIbCut8if-MIdnqMRvXfqjQdnbm6I3g4rpchbB5wIRgktBLu9lRiLYcwE3ZVGt3aXa6wVWly7wZ58YgUAS/s1600/GEDC4225.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="130" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC9NAngtsPxnVtKEKDEDk9NyFlCDwHD5HPFPDgpOifA6xPNRQebw0tUVgEtljIbCut8if-MIdnqMRvXfqjQdnbm6I3g4rpchbB5wIRgktBLu9lRiLYcwE3ZVGt3aXa6wVWly7wZ58YgUAS/s200/GEDC4225.JPG" width="200" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: small;">Paula Anntoneth O of <a href="http://www.ponderingpaodaolei.net/2012/05/traveling-with-mommy.html">Pondering Paodaolei</a> shares a short but really entertaining photoblog entry about traveling with her mommy. For Paula, a trip with her mom will never bore her because she'll never go hungry, she's always protected, she's always rich and best of all, she's always treated like a baby. She'll never get tired of traveling with her mommy because she always feels like she's just travelling inside their own home!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash2/18177_101490949883413_100000675260746_40801_6640486_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="121" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash2/18177_101490949883413_100000675260746_40801_6640486_n.jpg" width="200" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: small;">For <a href="http://www.rainamantiad.com/2012/05/07/blog-carnival-my-royal-rockness/">Rain Amantiad</a>, her mom was her role model and she on the other hand was her favorite accessory. It's not the typical mother and daughter relationship but more of a sisterly one. Rain had the chance to invite her mom for a Valentines Day trip 2 years ago to New Zealand where they had the chance to explore half of the country by bus for 10 days. Having the natural maternal instinct, Rain's mom packed sandwiches, a malong, a set of pajamas, bath towel, flannels, a huge bottle of Vicks vapor rub and even boiled eggs just to make sure that they have a comfortable trip. And because this is her first time in NZ, there are those 'praning' moments that Rain can't help but vividly recall about her mom but what's interesting about this trip is that it somehow helped her to loosen up a bit and be adaptable to all things new. She's lucky to have a mother whose maturity didn’t rob her of cool and her youth. A mom who knows not only most Parokya ni Edgar’s songs but also jetskis, rides the roller coaster, wears skinny jeans and even plays Angry Birds on iPad. A mother that definitely deserves the 'Royal Rockness' award.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: small;">Audrey Tamayo or <a href="http://www.byahengbarok.com/2012/05/07/mom-becomes-a-traveler-too/">Byaherong Barok</a>'s story is different. She and her mom weren’t really close and there was even a point in her life where she promised that she will never be like her, a boring mom. But it's not like she’s a bad or an abusive mother who maltreated her children if that's what you're thinking. It's simply because her mom wasn't like any other typical mom and for a daughter who's growing up she see's a mother who doesn't have a life. But when Audrey became a mother, she realized how selfish it was to think of such a thing about her mom. She then made a promise to let her do the things that their mom failed to do while she was busy taking care of them and one of which is traveling. For Audrey the worth of every mother is insurmountable to anything in this world but she do knows that while her mom is able, she would like her to experience the things that she missed out while she was busy being a mother to them and one of which is traveling.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-a9rK3Em5N1Q/T6jPzfvhXkI/AAAAAAAAFbM/8klTH_Ijmcs/s1600/Nurture+Spa+with+Mama+%252819%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="135" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-a9rK3Em5N1Q/T6jPzfvhXkI/AAAAAAAAFbM/8klTH_Ijmcs/s200/Nurture+Spa+with+Mama+%252819%2529.JPG" width="200" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: small;">Alex De Vera Dizon aka <a href="http://rammmpa.blogspot.com/2012/05/nurturing-treat-for-me-and-mama.html">Rammmpa</a> usually travels with his friends but when he won a nurturing treat at the Nurture Spa Village, he brought along his special travel buddy with him - his mom. Alex wasn't really expecting much fun on this vacation but it turned out to be a good one as both mother and son enjoyed the massage treat. Alex was thankful that he had the chance to spend one the best nights of his life at the spa and the best thing was that he got to enjoy it with the most important person in his life. So if you guys have any extra free spa treatments for two that you would like to share then why not give it to Alex and his mom so they can have another treat together.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEild7HXL1OUJqYqHryUiXs6X2WXkIZBy7_iZZHFMZDjqJNf8w_YO_xLkeTLjFN761Gi0MqdSh5hmDo6ysvfVaoKSDU5xZOro3gvk4xkV-ZSnTirRqcbmTCWDAQcIR3cN0CSFZziiFnGsFA/s1600/MAMA+6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="187" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEild7HXL1OUJqYqHryUiXs6X2WXkIZBy7_iZZHFMZDjqJNf8w_YO_xLkeTLjFN761Gi0MqdSh5hmDo6ysvfVaoKSDU5xZOro3gvk4xkV-ZSnTirRqcbmTCWDAQcIR3cN0CSFZziiFnGsFA/s200/MAMA+6.jpg" width="200" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: small;">Mhe-anne Ojeda of <a href="http://www.mycomingsandgoings.com/2012/05/my-kikay-mami-and-my-mothers-day-gift.html#axzz1uMemwBKC">My Comings and Goings</a> fondly calls her sassy mom 'Mami' which means noodle in Filipino. For Mhe-anne, traveling and Mother's day do not always go together but she always make sure that she spends this special day with her and do something meaningful in honor of Mami. Mhe-anne and her mom has been to different places and even shared several roadtrips with their family but during these group travels, Mhe-anne never forgets to have a "me with my mommy" time and have those memorable moments captured in pictures. Even though Mhe-anne still haven't had the chance to travel solely with her mom, she never felt like she was out of place in any of those previous trips, not even once. And although most of those trips was her treat, Mhe-anne always ends up getting the special treatment from no other than Mami.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTLXpomTCUHnqwSaoESS8I5hS7EOF2OUJo2ygIeOAVj38zLE9RzUyp6PfNYlcllpPv0PRTMjJtZgdzdZ5VqSXWB_b4v_zEfl_v6_mqj3Wk-lVx4EXHkart-Up7Qb_DnXqsaY7FPRY6a4_g/s1600/mama.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTLXpomTCUHnqwSaoESS8I5hS7EOF2OUJo2ygIeOAVj38zLE9RzUyp6PfNYlcllpPv0PRTMjJtZgdzdZ5VqSXWB_b4v_zEfl_v6_mqj3Wk-lVx4EXHkart-Up7Qb_DnXqsaY7FPRY6a4_g/s200/mama.jpg" width="200" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: small;">The pillar of strength and ultimate inspiration - that's how Elal Jane Lasola of <a href="http://www.elaljanelasola.com/2012/05/pillar-my-strength-and-ultimate.html">The Shades of Grey</a> defines her mother. Elal lost her father a very young age and it was a devastating point in her life. But the strength that her mother showed to her and her sister were the reasons why they were able to survive the pain and move on with their lives. Being the eldest, expectations was passed unto Elal but her mother never pressured her about this responsibility. Nevertheless, she still finished her studies and left Dumaguete to find a better job in the Metro to provide and help her family - the reason why she was able to survive being apart from them for such a long time. And while traveling has help her moved on and get inspired with what she has seen more, Elal wishes to share these kind of trips with her mom and her sister. She may not have traveled to different places that often with her mom but they sure have traveled much more in life together. It may not always be smooth sailing but knowing that her mom is always there, all the experiences are worth treasuring, both good and bad. She still dreams of going back home and when that day happens, Elal promises to treat her pillar of strength that special mother's-day-of-a-kind trip that she truly deserves.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlFaH1a2SbzyKKvkrmZQel_6AeQwe4tzPHtPFYozAhEbreuMWY8SW39vLzVx-g8na47xKVAdfbwQU8epN_1vNOmCcqLNs_Q5cpJNoQWR8dxvR4mc0mWuDTKRpwgJ4vQ7j5-GL1pPWBC2Tq/s1600/12.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlFaH1a2SbzyKKvkrmZQel_6AeQwe4tzPHtPFYozAhEbreuMWY8SW39vLzVx-g8na47xKVAdfbwQU8epN_1vNOmCcqLNs_Q5cpJNoQWR8dxvR4mc0mWuDTKRpwgJ4vQ7j5-GL1pPWBC2Tq/s200/12.JPG" width="150" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: small;"><a href="http://theadventistadventurer.blogspot.com/2012/05/special-love-letter-to-my-mom.html">Adventist Adventurer</a> Ephraim Arriesgado writes a special love letter to his ever loving and gorgeous mom thanking her for all the unforgettable lessons that has become the ultimate guide in his life. Happy and contented, Ephraim never forgets to owe his achievements to his mom who has done everything to raise him well and has been diligently praying for his success. He vividly recalls those priceless moments that they shared in Leyte, Cebu and Bukidnon. And now he's saving up to treat his mom for special date to Palawan where he promises to have a special time together, along with his dad. And while he waits for that trip to come into fruiton, Ephraim dedicates the song "An Angel to Watch Over Me" by Sally DeFord to his mom and all the mothers out there on this special day.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr7gyNbLaIB3t4NsNi2eIdwfnTyl9W55V904S7cbvGElgUXhmMi12WFSLySwtgaJNglB9eES_as3JWWzzWzdvDDJEKoIzCMfZcqB_fhDgYhSncqjDy9IrL_b6fvsDNXZleM6KPQEY7MIQ/s1600/nanay.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="143" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr7gyNbLaIB3t4NsNi2eIdwfnTyl9W55V904S7cbvGElgUXhmMi12WFSLySwtgaJNglB9eES_as3JWWzzWzdvDDJEKoIzCMfZcqB_fhDgYhSncqjDy9IrL_b6fvsDNXZleM6KPQEY7MIQ/s200/nanay.jpg" width="200" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Reiza Dejito of <a href="http://www.wander-if-you-must.com/2012/05/wanderlust-begins-at-home.html">Wander If You Must</a> reveals that her Nanay is the </span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">original lakwatsera in the family. Mastering her Houdini act, Reiza's mom manages tiptoe her way out to her small adventures or </span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">flash trips with her teacher friends </span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">but still has the time to fulfill her duties as a mother. It runs in the family though, because the Dejitos know what it's like to have an adventure. Save it for their dad who's already contented stalking her daughters on Facebook and reveling at their most recent travel photos. </span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">So if you happen to live by near Reiza's place and you see someone sneaking out of the house in the wee hours of the morning, don't even bother calling the police because that’s just probably one of the members of the Dejito family who shares the same itchy feet that can be traced from the original</span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"> Queen of Lakwatsa.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">For Roniel Magtoto Macatol of <a href="http://eatinghalfway.blogspot.com/2012/05/my-staycationing-nanay.html">Eating Halfway</a>, his mom already knows the word staycation way before it even became a term</span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">. Being the homebody that she is, Roniel's Nanay wasn't much a fan of traveling because s</span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">he's happy doing her duties as a full time mom. She takes pride in their family's achievements and all those things add up to her happiness and contentment. Roniel recalls their </span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">first trip out of town with his mom and his family was in December 2005 at Verde Island. For him it was one of the best Christmases ever because he finally got to see his mom step out of her comfort zone which for him is already a huge achievement. In fact this trip was so fun that it had a rerun when the whole family got the chance to visit Verde Island again just recently. </span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Roniel's mom experienced a rough time though when she had to undergo an eye operation due partly to an accident and her being a diabetic. Fortunately Nanay has regained her sight and is now looking forward to go explore new places along with his family and order her favourite meal at the nearest Chowking branch.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7v9axYWDhXI/T6904wSOT4I/AAAAAAAABXU/3KdTlVjG5VQ/s1600/a5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="126" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7v9axYWDhXI/T6904wSOT4I/AAAAAAAABXU/3KdTlVjG5VQ/s200/a5.jpg" width="200" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Meanwhile </span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Xian Christopher Go writes for the first time on her mom's blog </span><a href="http://www.journeyingpinay.blogspot.com/2012/05/my-moms-joyous-journeys.html" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif;">The Journeying Pinay</a><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"> for this month's blog carnival. Xian shares that their first official trip was when they went to Boracay. The planned excuse was to tell his teachers that he got sick but Xian was still elated and was even proud to tell them that he skipped school to travel with his mom. Xian even recalls their one of a kind roadtrip up north when his mom got herself a new car named Grant. And even though mom had an itchy feet she never fails to do her duties as a mom. </span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">She cooks best like the other mothers do, can fix his sister's hair creatively and dab make up on her when needed and even do their homework. But what Xian loves most about her is that she is not just a mother but a friend. And when Xian sees his mom go online and</span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"> he asks, "Mama, who is Jor-ne-ying Pinay?", she simply smiles and answers, "Me, Anak."</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.senyorita.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/UK-Arrival.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://www.senyorita.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/UK-Arrival.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">"Anong nangyari sa balat mo? Ang itim-itim mo!" that was the first comment that <a href="http://www.senyorita.net/2012/05/mothers-day-tribute-post/">Senyorita</a> Mica got from her mom </span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">upon seeing her for the first time at the Birmingham International Airport Arrival area. She is the total opposite of her Mama. While Mica is settled for using Johnson’s Baby Powder and a Lip Gloss, her mom never leaves the house without make-up and even has a nightly ritual by applying lotion and moisturizers on her face. But no matter how opposite they are, Mica is proud to say that she got her strength from her mom who took the risk of working abroad at the age of 40 just for the welfare of their family. It's a big risk on her mom's part since she is used to her life in Pangasinan yet all of a sudden, she starts from scratch again. These sacrifices though is something that Mica and her brother is always proud of. Mica recalls her three months stint in the UK where she had a great time with her Mama visiting different cities such as Birmingham, Rugby, Coventry, Warwick, Worcester, Stratford Upon Avon, Cardiff and London. And although the trip is over, Mica is already drafting an ambitious yet doable plan of going back to the UK to be with her mom again. This however is not the usual backpacking route with her since Mama deserves a little pampering after all the sacrifices that she has done for her children.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtlTNrX7TUJJzSTCsAcZjOLGqQmejn0H9ANznxozXwkgHpH4Xg3y-23Otg5sQYz-KSV9zEHxaZjo-nUOp3OIwW13cQlof3Ul53B-QCZAbrpaXHWbSx2ocaGX-Wqk6XH0RBDpYAsqOc_woc/s1600/_DSC5747.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtlTNrX7TUJJzSTCsAcZjOLGqQmejn0H9ANznxozXwkgHpH4Xg3y-23Otg5sQYz-KSV9zEHxaZjo-nUOp3OIwW13cQlof3Ul53B-QCZAbrpaXHWbSx2ocaGX-Wqk6XH0RBDpYAsqOc_woc/s200/_DSC5747.JPG" width="200" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: small;"><a href="http://reginstravels.blogspot.com/2012/05/traveling-with-my-mom-mothers-day.html">Regin Reyno</a> recalls his family's longest road trip ever from Isabela to South Cotabato. That's a lengthy 1,800 km drive that for a span of 3 days and his father was the only one driving the whole time. You may say that his father was the hero of that trip but for Regin, behind the success of a great man is a great woman. Regin's mom did a wonderful job preparing all the things that they needed for that long trip and she never missed out preparing their breakfast. He feels so</span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: small;"> blessed to have a mom like her</span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: small;"> who is always there to make their travel more convenient, meaningful, and happy. And even though mom is sometimes busy with her schedule, she always finds time for travel and leisure especially if it's a family vacation. Like Regin, his mom is a certified traveler and supports the idea of traveling and always having a regular family vacation. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjycauuOxCYBJ-Uicw9I3RnZS_SRcOTo-sFxjJO5ZXezrGMbquqZ349jr4-WQOWQyqzBO3v9tcdwEqjbV9iAYmvPGX86OKv-Wx2b2cUbN8ckdlFVoQCrpAJl7HeYJcI6AHLAkPuBl9Xys8/s1600/1+with+effect.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjycauuOxCYBJ-Uicw9I3RnZS_SRcOTo-sFxjJO5ZXezrGMbquqZ349jr4-WQOWQyqzBO3v9tcdwEqjbV9iAYmvPGX86OKv-Wx2b2cUbN8ckdlFVoQCrpAJl7HeYJcI6AHLAkPuBl9Xys8/s200/1+with+effect.jpg" width="146" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">For Bonzenti Panganiban of the <a href="http://www.contourblog.com/2012/05/ruins-and-old-structures-in-cebu-as.html">Con Tour Blog</a>, the ruins and the old structures in Cebu especially the one at the Old Port Area are the living witness of his childhood and his early trips with his mother. Back in the late 70's, this old port area used to be the docking area of passenger ships and Bonzenti remembers his mom who was a former merchant used to buy their textile merchandise in the streets of Manalili and Minglanilla. During his early childhood, Bonz was exposed to selling dry goods in a public market, more so in traveling to Cebu by ship overnight during Fridays and then back home by Sunday. And being the natural protective mother that she is, Bonz's mom always advise him not to talk to strangers since there are lots of swindlers around near the port area. Growing up raised and exposed in a market place, he also admires his mother of being well-versed in the field of retail merchandising where Bonz also learned how to dance with the tune of life on how to live decently and righteously in selling.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhny5E5CsNebpd_7z2ntG-qw6Ka6tf3gv7HoxQjOzOfWb2qx4ex-i8JyoSnNl2dTiDqITVpw01OuSKwVEZEiE5eIAI54H6JS7l6RON23qypX3JvoqA-xapgswH5yMDdt6REJu1ZHo-3HXg/s1600/DSC_0046c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="132" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhny5E5CsNebpd_7z2ntG-qw6Ka6tf3gv7HoxQjOzOfWb2qx4ex-i8JyoSnNl2dTiDqITVpw01OuSKwVEZEiE5eIAI54H6JS7l6RON23qypX3JvoqA-xapgswH5yMDdt6REJu1ZHo-3HXg/s200/DSC_0046c.jpg" width="200" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">As for my superwoman, I have nothing but good things to say about her. We may never have all the riches in the world but having her beside me every step of the way makes me even richer than the world's biggest billionaires. My mom and I have already experienced alot of tough times together but I'm proud to say that we always seem to get through it all with flying colours. </span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">She's always supportive of my decisions and while other people may not understand why I travel a lot, Mumsie trusts me with what I do because she knows that this is my passion and anything that would make me happy would also make her happy as well. And even though I've been to a lot of places with different people, that trip to Macau with Mumsie will always be special. I could still recall how excited she was for me on my very first trip abroad even though it was actually my gift to her on her 55th birthday. For 3 days we had a great time together; checking out the free pastries in Rua do Cunha, freaking out because no foreign exchange would accept our pocket money, being pushed by a group of Japanese oldies at the buffet breakfast and even getting lost at Taipa only to find out that we were just a few blocks away from where left off. And although it was just a short trip, my mom happily recalls it as one of her best trips ever. Well, t</span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">he same goes for me Mumsie!</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: small;">They say there is no love like the love a mother has for a child. It is endless and unselfish. We may have traveled with our friends, our travel buddies and our partners but nothing can beat the experience sharing the journey with our very first travel buddy - our mothers. So before you go to the flower shop to get her a bouquet of roses for this special day, why not treat your mom to something a little more special this time — a trip with her perhaps?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: small;">Happy Mother's Day to all the wonderful mom's out there! Without you, none of us would have ever been born.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://langyaw.com/pinoy-travel-bloggerss-blog-carnival/"><img alt="Pinoy Travel Bloggers Blog Carnival" height="172" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7140/6973718822_17c77c3f39_m.jpg" width="150" /></a></span></div>
</td><td><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></td><td><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: small;">This is the PTB Blog Carnival for May 2012 with the theme, "Traveling with Your Mom (A Mother's Day Special)"<br /><br />To see the archive of Pinoy Travel Bloggers’ Blog Carnival <a href="http://langyaw.com/pinoy-travel-bloggerss-blog-carnival/">click here</a>.</span></td></tr>
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vinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00282010163305970753noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-304902675259764011.post-77537830493313565622012-05-04T18:54:00.000+08:002012-05-05T04:47:55.605+08:00Masasa: An Off-the-Beaten-Path Beach<div align="center">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/6993476284/" title="masasa beach, tingloy by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="masasa beach, tingloy" height="332" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7132/6993476284_1dd2e5509a.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: small;">When I first heard about this place, I thought it was somewhere in Quezon or Zambales but I was surprised to know that it is just in the province of Batangas. I never really expected that much because I thought that it's just an ordinary beach but I was wrong. It may not be as fascinating as Calaguas or as massive as Caramoan but it has that certain charm that will simply leave any person that appreciates nature and beaches in awe.</span><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/6993502120/" title="masasa boys by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="masasa boys" height="332" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7073/6993502120_74db5b45bd.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: small;">Masasa beach is located on the southern portion Tingloy, the town that wholly comprises the island of Maricaban. Going on a day tour is possible if you have only one day to spare but make sure that you hire a boat that will take you to Masasa and will bring you back to Mabini. This is actually what we did because we've learned that regular boats bound for Tingloy leave the ports of Anilao and Talaga at 10:30 am while return trips are scheduled at 6:00 am from Masasa and 9:00 am from Tingloy. That means staying there overnight is the only option if you plan to take the regular boat schedules but do take note that there are no resorts or cottages near the beach so having a tent is a necessity.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: small;">The group met around 2am at Cubao and by 5am we were already in the intersection of Diversion Road and the National Highway in Bolbok, Batangas City. The travel time usually takes 1.5 hours but it was extended to 3 hours because Ian thought that there are buses bound for Batangas City at the Araneta Center bus terminal. We took the bus bound for Naga and just asked the driver to drop us off at the Turbina bus station in Sto. Tomas, Batangas so we can transfer to another bus to Batangas City. At the Diversion Road, we took a jeepney ride bound for Talaga, Mabini and less than an hour later we were already in Talaga port. Ian had already planned to cook food for us so we bought fresh fish and other ingredients from the nearby flea market and minutes later we're on-board the boat to Tingloy. It was still early in the morning so it was actually a smooth 45-minute boat ride and upon reaching Tingloy we were amazed on how clear the water is even at the port. We weren’t really expecting it to be that clear because we always have this notion that ports are usually dirty and are full of trash but this one is truly an exception.</span><br /><br />
<div align="center"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/7141551825/" title="marine protected area of tingloy, batangas by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7259/7141551825_a8d6117034.jpg" width="500" height="281" alt="marine protected area of tingloy, batangas"></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: small;">Before taking the tricycle to Masasa, we found out that Tingloy is a marine protected area which is the reason why the beaches around the town are still unscathed.</span><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/7139530875/" title="masasa beach, tingloy by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="masasa beach, tingloy" height="332" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8147/7139530875_e8ea1a5eb7.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/6993481670/" title="masasa beach, tingloy by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="masasa beach, tingloy" height="332" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8149/6993481670_b88c5a4155.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/6993499792/" title="masasa beach, tingloy by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="masasa beach, tingloy" height="332" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8158/6993499792_f18f1cb8e6.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: small;">And so we finally reached Masasa beach after that 15-minute trike and a 10-minute of downhill walk. It wasn’t actually love at first sight. At first we were welcomed by a lot of dead corals at the shore and there were some locals who were collecting these in sack containers which I’m guessing will be sold in exchange for money. We kept on walking and finally found an empty area beside the rocks where we decided to settle in for the day. What I’ve noticed from the beach is that there are parts that are still left intact and there are parts that were obviously quarried. What’s surprising though is that the virgin part of the beach has the powdery white sands that are seemingly comparable to that of Calaguas and Boracay!</span><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/6993453492/" title="masasa beach, tingloy by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="masasa beach, tingloy" height="332" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7063/6993453492_a815f0b62e.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/7139557235/" title="masasa beach, tingloy by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="masasa beach, tingloy" height="332" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7058/7139557235_310406d2b9.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/7139560043/" title="masasa beach, tingloy by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="masasa beach, tingloy" height="332" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7177/7139560043_97f1db7729.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: small;">Aside from the fine white sands, stunning rock formations near the beach are also abundant which makes it unique from the other beaches that I’ve been to. Most of them can be scaled without the need to use any hiking gears and some even have cemented stairs so it’s actually easy to climb these rocks if you want to have a panoramic view of the sea with the mountains of Mindoro in the background.</span><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/6993479118/" title="masasa beach, tingloy by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="masasa beach, tingloy" height="332" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8155/6993479118_730c5f32eb.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/6993484212/" title="masasa beach, tingloy by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="masasa beach, tingloy" height="332" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7185/6993484212_8f8b93ac4a.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/7139580059/" title="masasa beach, tingloy by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="masasa beach, tingloy" height="332" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7258/7139580059_6736161ba3.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: small;">And since its summer, who could resist the inviting waters of the beach? At first I hesitated because I’m still recovering from my recent sunburn in Calaguas but in the end I just gave in to temptation. Woohoo for beaches and to hell with sunburns!</span><br /><br />
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<tr><td><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/6993440586/" title="masasa beach, tingloy by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="masasa beach, tingloy" height="320" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8154/6993440586_a02a771a4d_n.jpg" width="213" /></a></td><td><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/6993442600/" title="masasa beach, tingloy by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="masasa beach, tingloy" height="320" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7179/6993442600_0b4bebce08_n.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/6993462864/" title="masasa beach, tingloy by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="masasa beach, tingloy" height="320" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7250/6993462864_2faee1eb15_n.jpg" width="213" /></a></td><td><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/7139590421/" title="masasa beach, tingloy by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="masasa beach, tingloy" height="320" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7209/7139590421_809077779e_n.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: small;">Having been to Masasa, I would say that it could definitely rival the most popular beaches in the country had the area been kept in its pristine condition but still I have high hopes for this place. There’s no doubt that hauling of the sand and coral fragments is damaging for the island and if the local government can find an alternative livelihood to the coral stone collectors then I bet Masasa can quickly recover and make a name of its own as one of the finest beaches of the Philippines.</span>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS; font-size: small;"><strong>How to get there:</strong></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS; font-size: small;">Take a bus bound for Batangas City/Pier early in the morning and ask to be droped off point at Diversion Road in Bolbok, Batangas City (2 hours travel time). It is best to leave around early in the moring as the buses are not allowed to unload passengers in this area during normal hours. Take a jeep bound for Talaga or Anilao, Mabini and alight at the Talaga Port or Anilao Port (45 minutes travel time). Regular boats bound for Tingloy leave ports of Anilao and Talaga at 10:30am while return trips leave the port of Tingloy port at 9:00am (45 minutes travel time). If you want to hire a boat, you can contact Kuya Jhamil ay 0916-478-5241. Upon reaching Tingloy, take a tricycle to Masasa Beach (15 minutes travel time).</span>vinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00282010163305970753noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-304902675259764011.post-50971106928752788872012-04-28T06:28:00.002+08:002012-04-29T23:53:57.443+08:00Calaguas: Unspoiled Beauty<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/7119392885/" title="Calaguas by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="Calaguas" height="332" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7074/7119392885_1b5f01752d.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: small;">The longer the journey, the bigger the reward. That's what I told myself when I joined another group of travelers to Calaguas, an unspoiled group of islands off the east coast of Camarines Norte. I always hear about this place from most of the travelers that I've met or traveled with but the common dilemma for them is the travel time. This is because you have to endure a 9-hour bus and a 2-hour boat ride before you get to see this hidden paradise of Bicol but once you reach the island, you'll simply forget everything and just give in to the inviting waters of this virgin beach. And did you know that we managed to budget our expenses for less than Php 2000? Who says you have to spend that much to enjoy?</span><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/6973603092/" title="Kwangmyongsong-3 satellite path by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="Kwangmyongsong-3 satellite path" height="375" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7084/6973603092_058d0febb8.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: small;">This trip was actually against all odds because the day of our departure falls within North Korea's five-day window to launch their Kwangmyongsong-3 satellite and Calaguas was included in the no-fly and no-sail zone. But even if it wasn't safe, most of us are still eager to push through with the trip. Some were already suggesting backup plans just in case the trip will be cancelled but the majority's decision prevailed: Calaguas or nothing! Oh and did I forget to mention that it was also Friday the 13th?</span>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: small;"><i>"Palpak ang nkor missile launch. Suspended na ang no sailing no fishing policy. Calaguas na!:D"</i> - this was the text message that I received from Art and oh boy this message just made my morning right. Calaguas is a go! And so I packed my bags, met the others at the Superlines bus station in Cubao and 9 hours later we were already in Paracale and already boarding the boat that would finally take us to Mahabang Buhangin. I could just feel everybody's excitement. Nobody bothered about the travel time, the extreme cold temperature at the bus and even the rough boat ride under the scorching heat of the sun. I guess everybody was just as excited as I am to finally set foot on this island that is touted to be the next Boracay.</span><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/6973301026/" title="Calaguas by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="Calaguas" height="332" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7120/6973301026_0dd6a60245.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/7119350581/" title="Calaguas by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="Calaguas" height="332" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8146/7119350581_c0f86a3ddf.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: small;">And 2 hours later, this magnificent mountain range welcomed us as we approach the island. Yes we're finally in Calaguas. Everybody was all in a hurry to get off the boat and some were even off balanced because of the excitement including me. Good thing I handed over my bag to the boatman or else all of my stuff, including my phone and my camera, would have gone wet.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: small;">I had everything packed on my bag: clothes, toiletries, camera, extra food, utensils, a butane gas stove and money. However there was one essential that I never bothered to bring - a tent! You see Calaguas is still a virgin beach so there are no accommodations in the island which means there are no resorts or hotels. It's a good thing that the locals are already providing tents for rent at Php 300 which is already good for 8 people. Thank heavens I didn't had to sleep on the sand..(or did I?). More of that later.</span><br />
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<td><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/7119355835/" title="lunch in Calaguas by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="lunch in Calaguas" height="320" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7041/7119355835_a0fe3b553a_n.jpg" width="213" /></a></td>
<td><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/6973277742/" title="lunch in Calaguas by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="lunch in Calaguas" height="320" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7194/6973277742_82b0b06526_n.jpg" width="213" /></a></td>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/6973272710/" title="butane gas by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="butane gas" height="332" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8145/6973272710_b5410530a5.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: small;">The group's lunch was cooked and prepared by <a href="http://www.limbonis.info/"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: small;">Ian</span></a>, Ara and Art who happens to be a chef so imagine how scrumptious and tasteful the food was. And to top it off we decided to go on a boodle fight to satisfy our hunger. A boodle fight is actually military style of eating where everyone will use their hands to eat food which are laid out on banana leaves.</span><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/6973306382/" title="Pinoy Travel Addicts in Calaguas by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="Pinoy Travel Addicts in Calaguas" height="332" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7099/6973306382_c23267f7c6.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/6973308164/" title="Calaguas by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="Calaguas" height="332" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7262/6973308164_d49a4f75fd.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/7119389713/" title="Calaguas by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="Calaguas" height="332" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8005/7119389713_34673761be.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: small;">After lunch, some of us decided to doze off while others enjoyed their siesta time playing cards. A few hours later we decided to explore the rocky east side of the coast which is really ideal to visit during low tide. This part of the island is actually a good contrast to the fine white sand that is very abundant at Mahabang Buhangin.</span>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/7119359265/" title="Calaguas by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="Calaguas" height="332" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7242/7119359265_f1d94a6100.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/6973281290/" title="Calaguas by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="Calaguas" height="332" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7183/6973281290_276563d17a.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/7119362877/" title="sunset in Calaguas by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="sunset in Calaguas" height="332" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8155/7119362877_d830beb560.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: small;">The afternoon was capped-off with a relaxing swim on the beach and then a moment of silence as everyone watches in awe at the array of colours in the sky as the sun sets on the horizon.</span><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/6973293980/" title="camping in Calaguas by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="camping in Calaguas" height="332" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8147/6973293980_60983ed4a7.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/6973290974/" title="starry night in Calaguas by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="starry night in Calaguas" height="332" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7236/6973290974_bc99925a35.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/6973286992/" title="starry night in Calaguas by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="starry night in Calaguas" height="332" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7267/6973286992_d06e07ac2d.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: small;">Night time was spent with booze, chitchats, stargazing and 'spin the bottle' games and before we knew it, it was already past midnight. The original plan was for us to go on a little hike to the other side of the island to watch the sunrise but since most of us were knocked out by the unlimited number of tequila shots we had for the night, most of us ended up sleeping on the beach. Yes, I passed out and slept on the sand all night and never even got to use the tent that I paid for. Well, it wasn't actually that bad except that we all look wasted and everyone was taking photos of us while we were comfortably sleeping outside our tents.</span><br />
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<td><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/7119375725/" title="breakfast in Calaguas by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="breakfast in Calaguas" height="320" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7206/7119375725_a79ab0dafb_n.jpg" width="213" /></a></td>
<td><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/6973297632/" title="breakfast in Calaguas by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="breakfast in Calaguas" height="320" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7178/6973297632_7ff29d6245_n.jpg" width="213" /></a></td>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: small;">So I got up and noticed that Ian was still fast asleep and it would be cruel to wake him up. Good thing Art and Ara was already awake so the three of us decided to prepare our breakfast and oh boy I enjoyed cooking all sorts of food such as scrambled eggs, fried eggplants, tinapa, danggit, corned beef, tortang talong and voila, breakfast is ready.</span><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/7119379587/" title="Calaguas by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="Calaguas" height="332" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7181/7119379587_448712d985.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: small;">After that heavenly breakfast I decided to go back to the rocky part of the island on my own and walked on the beach one last time before we finally head back to mainland. I just can't believe that I've finally been to one of the finest beaches in this country and best of all, I was able to see it while it's still unspoiled. Sure I may have been to different countries and have crossed out a few on my bucket list but being able to visit a dream destination in my own country still makes me more accomplished as a traveler.
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<br /><b>Summary of expenses (courtesy of ninyarica)</b>:
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<br />515 bus fare Cubao to Paracale via Superlines
<br />20 breakfast (pancit bato and milo)
<br />448 boat rent, per person (19 persons)
<br />167 contribution for the food and drinks
<br />120 entrance and barangay fees
<br />16 cottage (300/19 pax)
<br />30 poso water for washing
<br />60 van fare Paracale to Daet
<br />65 lunch
<br />360 bus fare Daet to Cubao via Superlines airconary bus (ac bus but ordinary fare)
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<br /><b>Total:</b>Php 1880</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS; font-size: small;"><strong>How to get there:</strong></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS; font-size: small;">Take a bus bound for Paracale (Superlines). Once you reach the drop off point at Paracale, you can take a 10-minute walk or ride a tricycle to the port where you can hire a boat that will bring you directly to the islands of Calaguas.</span>vinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00282010163305970753noreply@blogger.com12Calaguas14.418720368284729 122.9411315917968814.29574286828473 122.78320309179688 14.541697868284729 123.09906009179687tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-304902675259764011.post-36338685880159050112012-03-13T17:31:00.000+08:002013-01-17T20:04:06.468+08:005 Breath-taking Mini Breaks for The Short Term Holiday Goer<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/8003032363/" title="bags by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="bags" height="333" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8450/8003032363_5d8ec0c130.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Whether you just want to get away for a few days to escape the hectic rigours of life, or you are planning a short trip for a special occasion, taking a mini break can be an enjoyable and exhilarating experience.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><br />Often or not the short-term holiday goer may overlook a cruise option given the amount of time it takes to travel by sea but in fact short breaks at sea are becoming more and more popular. A mini break typically lasts fewer than seven days but they offer great value for money as you can get the full cruise experience with spa facilities and dining as well as evening shows. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><br />Most short break cruises sail from the UK so there is no flying involved but if you do want to experience a breath-taking, sunny sail then you do need to travel further afield to meet your ship.<br />Here are 5 mini vacations for the cruise fanatic:</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><br /><b>• Europe</b><br />Travel around Europe, setting off from Liverpool as your port of call and visiting everywhere including Milford Haven in Wales, Scilly Isles in the UK and Dublin. Alternatively, there are other mini European breaks which set off from London Tilsbury and include Amsterdam, Rouen in France and Antwerp in Belgium. Further hotspots in Europe consist of the port of call Southampton, Rotterdam in the Netherlands, Brussels in Belgium and Paris in France. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><br /><b>• Mediterranean</b><br />It is possible to enjoy the beautiful Mediterranean even if you only require a short break. Hotspots in the region which you must visit include Malaga in Spain, Gibraltar in the UK, Cadiz in Spain, and Tangier in Morocco. Further destinations consist of Rome/Naples in Italy, Alexandria in Egypt, Jerusalem in Israel, Ephesus in Turkey and Athens in Greece.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><br /><b>• Worldwide</b><br />You can go further afield and visit worldwide destinations even if you only wish to go away for three days. Some mini-break cruises set off from Southampton, travel to Amsterdam in the Netherlands and back again. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><br /><b>• Baltic and Fjords</b><br />Venture into a mystical world with a cruise holiday to the Fjords, the Baltic Sea or Iceland. Visit Reykjavik in Iceland and Geiranger in Norway; enjoy Oslo in Norway, Stavanger in Norway, and Flam in Norway. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><br /><b>• Far and Middle East</b><br />You can enjoy the Far and Middle East even if you only require a short-break. Set off from Singapore and cruise the South China Sea and stop off in Ko Samui, Bangkok, and Sihanoukville. Cruise the gulf of Thailand, visit Ho Chi Minh City and Hong Kong. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><br />This article was written by Cheapcruises.com, the specialists in <a href="http://uk.cheapcruises.com/c/cruises/destinations/short-breaks/"><span style="font-size: small;">short break cruises</span></a> and the best cruise deals from all major cruise lines. Visit the site today for <a href="http://uk.cheapcruises.com/c/cruises/destinations/sail-from-the-uk/"><span style="font-size: small;">cruises UK</span></a> based and for around the world.</span></div>
vinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00282010163305970753noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-304902675259764011.post-14995112129549703022012-03-07T22:06:00.000+08:002015-09-30T16:38:24.531+08:00Traveling: The Only Addiction That's Good For You<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/6815464570/" title="batanes by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="batanes" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7051/6815464570_3fd0ab5243.jpg" height="332" width="500" /></a> </div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: small;">I'm an addict, a self-confessed travel addict. Before, I used to see traveling as a luxurious lifestyle that only the privileged people can do but learning the art of budgeting has given me the opportunity to visit different places without the need to empty my bank account.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: small;">I remember my very first out of town trip and I was thinking ‘this is the first time that I will be away from my comfort zone’. Little that I know that this short trip to Puerto Galera was just the start of a long journey of self-discovery.</span><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/6961571805/" title="beaches by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="beaches" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7062/6961571805_a8539e849f.jpg" height="334" width="500" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: small;">The charming beaches of Caramoan, Puraran, Baler, Guisi, Bantayan and North Cay has made me appreciate sunsets even more and realize that every day is a new day.</span><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/6961572469/" title="temples by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="temples" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7207/6961572469_d147110737.jpg" height="167" width="500" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: small;">The temples of Angkor Wat in Cambodia, Pha That Luang in Laos and A-Ma in Macau opened my eyes to different cultures and religions which I highly respect and adore more than ever. The good news is that getting a <a href="http://www.cambodian-visa.com/"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: small;">Cambodia Visa</span></a> is easy and straightforward so I was able to explore its majestic temples.</span><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/6961574313/" title="food by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="food" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7061/6961574313_829a20d0ce.jpg" height="333" width="500" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: small;">Tasty dishes from Malaysia, Brunei, Hong Kong, Singapore and Vietnam may have worsened my acid reflux but the gastronomic experiences were always a delight.</span><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/6815461806/" title="lighthouse by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="lighthouse" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7183/6815461806_8ee62fea11.jpg" height="338" width="500" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: small;">Towering lighthouses in Palaui, Capones Island, Ilocos, Bolinao and Batanes gave me breathtaking views of different horizons that one day I choose to explore further.</span><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/6961576617/" title="trek by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="trek" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7059/6961576617_2dfe6839f5.jpg" height="332" width="500" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: small;">The long trails to Mt. Pulag, Mt. Pinatubo, Batad and Pico de Loro were able to test my endurance and patience to the limits while appreciating that there is no mountain high enough to keep me from living life to the full.</span><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/6815464036/" title="collage by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="collage" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7052/6815464036_530df057f9.jpg" height="341" width="500" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: small;">I have shared a trip with different kinds of travelers; some I have traveled with a couple of times and some I have only met while on the road. But what’s amusing is that these are actually the most amazing people I have ever met. Once you share a room or a ride with a traveler, you’re most likely to share stories or even have a common interest to talk about and before you know it, a stranger becomes a friend and these are the type of friendships that are worth keeping.</span><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/makulayangbuhay/5787088253/" title="pukaimas by phil_trophy, on Flickr"><img alt="pukaimas" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2391/5787088253_a6da3bbe06.jpg" height="375" width="500" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: small;">5 years. That's how long this addiction has been going on for and I probably don't see it ending anytime soon. Why? Because it has changed me, for the better. For such a long time I have put a limit on my dreams and just became contented with a boxed-in life. Then I discovered the art of traveling and came into a realization that my life is more that can be contained in a box. I chose to step outside of its confining walls to get me started to living a life that is more open to change and embracing any challenge that comes along the way. Every trip that I made has changed me and little by little I become a better person, appreciating another way of life that I have lived even for just a few days or weeks. After every trip I realize that the world I left hasn’t changed at all but it is me, enlightened with totally diverse values and inspired by a series of adventures. My travels have completely changed the course of my life and it's all I want to do for the next years ahead.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: small;">So are you ready to live out of the box? Go pack up your bags and discover how fun it is to travel. This is the only addiction that won't require you to go to rehab!</span><br />
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<img alt="Pinoy Travel Bloggers Blog Carnival" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7140/6973718822_17c77c3f39_m.jpg" height="172" width="150" /></div>
</td><td> </td><td><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: small;">This is my entry to the March Blog Carnival hosted by Reiza Dejito of <a href="http://www.wander-if-you-must.com/">Wander If You Must</a> on the topic "Leap of Faith: When Travelling Changed My Life." <br /><br />To see the archive of Pinoy Travel Bloggers’ Blog Carnival <a href="http://langyaw.com/pinoy-travel-bloggerss-blog-carnival/">click here</a>.</span></td></tr>
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<br />vinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00282010163305970753noreply@blogger.com31tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-304902675259764011.post-23695944394851785222012-02-23T19:44:00.000+08:002013-01-17T20:03:29.900+08:00Watersports on the Lakes: Garda and Como<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: small;">For the outdoor enthusiast who has a penchant for watersports, you don’t always have to head to the oceans to fulfill your hankering. You can enjoy a myriad of water based activities on freshwater lakes throughout Europe, and there’s no better option than the beautiful Italian lakes of Lake Garda and Lake Como.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Whereas <a href="http://www.neilson.co.uk/lakes-mountains/italy/lake-como"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Lake Como holidays</span></a> are often considered the more relaxing option, <span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.neilson.co.uk/lakes-mountains/italy/lake-garda"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Lake Garda holidays</span></a> provide visitors with plenty of thrills and adventure, both on and off the water.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><b>Lake Como</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: small;">If you want to try your hand at a range of watersports, the north of the lake probably provides the best conditions for it. On the west side, you will find Domaso, whilst on the east side, you will find Dervio – both of which offer courses and equipment hire for windsurfing and kitesurfing. With great wind conditions and plenty of space to play around with, Lake Como can be your adventure playground.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Try your hand at wakeboarding near Bellagio, where you can enroll on a crash course in this awesome sport.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Explore life under the surface and choose to dive in one of the deepest lakes in Europe. At 410m at the deepest point, you can find plenty of diving courses and providers within the waterfront resorts.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><b>Lake Garda</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Listing the number of watersports available in Lake Garda could be exhaustive but to name a few windsurfing is rife on the lake and Torbole in the north is perfect.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Jetskiing and waterskiing are available in certain areas, namely in the south where it’s calmer and less crowded with windsurfers.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Sailing schools can be found throughout the resorts and the crystal clear waters play great host to snorkeling and diving opportunities.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Plan your activity filled holiday today and look forward to the water-based sports that you have in store with an Italian lake holiday.</span>vinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00282010163305970753noreply@blogger.com1