Exploring Southern Cebu

Cebu will always be an instant choice every time I feel like going out of town to separate myself from the busy and hectic Manila scene. Like most of the highly urbanized cities, the charm is always hidden on the outskirts and Cebu is no exception.

The Queen City of the South was a place very familiar to me after constantly scavenging for great food spots during my previous visits. But other than great food, it also has a great variety of outdoor activities a true adventurer should not dare miss.

Albeit the fact the city has its own allure, there is more to discover about Cebu so I retreated to idea of spending less time in the city and explore the real beauty that Cebu is really proud of.

The Magic of Siquijor

Whenever I hear of Siquijor, the first thing I would think of in an instant are witchcraft, black magic and mystical traditions. I couldn't blame myself on this prejudice, this stereotype is the reason why even neighboring townsmen does not favor spending some time in this eerily silent island. 

We took the guts and went on to prove that Siquijor is worthy to be a destination not just for the brave souls but to anyone who takes pleasure in nature. 

Inside the Kingdom of Wonders: Siem Reap

The roads were a little rough, the streets were covered with sky scraper-high trees, electricity was considered a luxury and children learned how to ride a bike long before they knew how to do math. 

I know Cambodia reaps the better side of being third world, after all, it attracted so many attention because of that 'feature'. But I didn't really realize that it still has a long way to go to be at par with what civilization looks like within its neighbors. However, I believe it is meant to stay this way, otherwise it would lose all its charm. 

Lakhangthong Boutique Hotel

On my flight to Laos, I grabbed the magazine inserted infront of my seat. Somewhere in that edition, it says that the true value of hotel is if it makes you feel at home more than just giving a temporary shelter to homeless travelers. When we got at the  Lakhangthong Boutique Hotel, I remembered what I've read and I instantly knew this is what they meant.

We arrived past 8 in the morning and check in was not until 2 in the afternoon, but the hotel staff happily welcomed us and offered us free breakfast while waiting for our room to be served. It only took them half an hour until the suite was ready instead of waiting for the standard check in time which was a couple of hours more. That alone made me appreciate Lakhangthong Hotel because they have a genuine desire to give a home to travelers such as ourselves. They could have just asked us to pay for another half day rate, but they didn't. 

8 Hours in Vientiane

Three years ago, Laos was just a thought. Back then, Indochina sounded like a peculiar place to be, but my guts weren't enough to bring me to the crazy streets of South East Asia, albeit I am Southeast Asian myself. 

I have been waiting for the perfect time to check Laos. Before the chance came, I was very reliant about photos and stories online, most of which were vague and didn’t had a clear image of what I could expect. Because we were planning for an Indochina trip, it was necessary that Laos became part of the itinerary. This was my chance. Landing at Vientiane Airport, I knew this was a whole new world. The terminal was nothing fancy, the immigration officers, although appear authoritative, were dressed strangely. It was South East Asia, but the looks of the people around me are not something familiar, like how it is elsewhere.

Luxury Beyond Compare: Mandarin Oriental Manila

Experience Luxury Beyond Compare. This is the tagline that forefronts what the global brand Mandarin Oriental is all about. 

It was because of an exam I was taking which will be held at the Mandarin Oriental Manila that made my mom and I book to a well-deserved night of comfort. My exam was scheduled early morning so it was a practical idea to just get a room the night before, instead of going through the morning rush, not to mention that I live up north. Not only was able to get rid of the morning stress, I was physically at ease as well, which was a major advantage.

Three Stops at Subic

Aside from the free port and the duty free shopper's paradise that Subic boasts to its tourists, it is not all steady and urban, it houses a number of adventure thrills so one doesn't just stay on a comfy bed, eat good food or shop 'til you drop. 

Let's me tell you three outdoor spots you sure can't miss when you are in Subic.  

The Dawn of the Philippines

 

The Philippines Moves Forward  by Kit Reyes

One of the most beautiful countries on the planet, it wasn't after recently that I have learned to appreciate how amazing the country is. Not without glitches, the Philippines is far from being perfect, nor is it close to be listed among the tigers of Asia, although as the video above said, the Philippines used to be the second richest country in Asia, next only to Japan.

But none of those matter anymore, what is more important is that the country is moving forward, it may take a while with those baby steps, but the motion that the country is taking is enough to consider that the Philippines indeed has a chance. 

A major factor to consider with this pace to sunrise is the country's realization to appreciate our biggest and most optimistic stronghold - tourism. After a few explorations over our neighboring countries, I can attest to  Sec. Jimenez's belief that the Philippines is indeed not like any other. This promising potential of the country to be a prime tourist destination in Asia could be easily attained as long as we know how to value this niche. 

With the world-famous Filipino hospitality, we sure do know how to work our ways and with enough efforts paired with A-list natural resources, the tourism industry shall boost the Philippine economy, but needless for motivations such as this one, the Philippines in itself, is truly and without a doubt, a pearl in the orient seas - worthy to be explored and worthy to be a relaxation haven, why else do we travel? 

As Del Rosario said, it is time to look at our country with fresh eyes, so let us do ourselves a favor and take into an adventure in our local seas, caves and terrains, together with the world, let us know why It is More Fun in the Philippines!

Details of the video and story here: http://vimeo.com/56190703

Finding Neverland: Coron, Palawan

Before my eyes met paradise, Manila was wrapped in dark nimbus clouds. We were under a blanket of rain while we followed the storm’s trail.  I was in a chase with luck; hopefully, my flight would not be one of those being announced as cancelled on the radio while my father was driving under heavy downpour to the airport.

A Place for Peter Pan- The Mt. Tapyas Hotel

Coron, Palawan will always be my definition of finding Neverland. And the journey in this beautiful town is incomplete without a cradle to carry out all the fun's worth. With a bird's eye view of the surrounding waters of mainland Coron, the view itself satisfies your craving for some of the best time of your life. And yes, I would definitely say, best.

Being there, it is as if Peter Pan is at his spot to take a glimpse of Neverland.

Of Meeting Elephants and Counting Countless Temples

Amazing Thailand. The Thai tourism council made a splendid job of coming up with a no-better-word than 'Amazing'. I couldn't think of another adjective to describe this South East Asian marvel. Everything in Thailand is either, exciting or amazing, both words equally complimenting.