tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-74364026825666631622024-03-14T10:22:25.564+08:00Rain's TravelsTrips, Twists and Turns in the Philippines, Asia and BeyondRainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08420708024847226996noreply@blogger.comBlogger103125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7436402682566663162.post-8766053450294257522012-09-21T01:07:00.000+08:002012-09-21T03:17:02.062+08:00Tourist Visa to New Zealand: A Guide for Filipino Travelers<i>Like it? Share it on Facebook or Twitter!</i><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZR7LRcyRIpQ/UFses4xVEcI/AAAAAAAAA1k/Q1goQau6Wig/s1600/new+zealand+visa+requirements.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="250" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZR7LRcyRIpQ/UFses4xVEcI/AAAAAAAAA1k/Q1goQau6Wig/s400/new+zealand+visa+requirements.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Have your documents ready if you want to visit New Zealand.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
“Why do I have a Philippine
passport?” This is my friend’s usual rant before his trips abroad. I did not
understand this until l had to apply for a tourist visa on my own and assist
some folks in their visa applications. But instead of coming up with a list
of rants, I thought it would be better to share my experience in applying for
or assisting someone in submitting a visa application. Here’s my step-by-step
guide on how to apply for a tourist visa to New Zealand as well as some tips. <i>(Note: Don’t
read this if you’re planning to immigrate, work or stay in New Zealand for more
than 6 months)</i>. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>Step 1: Download the Tourist/Business <a href="http://www.immigration.govt.nz/NR/rdonlyres/452E7819-182F-48BF-A269-5EA153F691EE/0/INZ118930July2012.pdf" target="_blank">Visitor Visa Applicationform (INZ 1189)</a> and fill-up all required information.</b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo4; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->-<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span>The 12-page form is for travelers intending to <b>stay in New Zealand for less than 6 months </b>for
tourism or business purposes. Make sure to write in English and use capital
letters. You will need the details of your current passport when filling up the
form. Do not forget to affix your signature on the form as well. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Step 2: <b>Prepare all the
requirements that must be attached to your visa application form.</b> <span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">The requirements are:</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->a)<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->A valid Philippine passport and photocopy of the
passport’s biopage (the page with your photo, name, date, etc.)</div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1.0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo3; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->-<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->If you don’t have one or if your passport is
about to expire in 6 months, make sure to work on that before you apply for
your visa. </div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->b)<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->2 recent passport-size photographs (4.5cm x 3.5
cm) of yourself</div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1.0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->-<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]--> Your full
name must be written on the back of each photo and the photos must be less than
6 months old. </div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->c)<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->Manager’s Cheque (Bank draft) payable to “PIASI”</div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1.0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->-<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->You can request for a manager’s cheque from your bank. Personal checks or credit card
payments are not allowed. The cheque must include the service fee and the
applicable courier fee. Take note that
you need to pay the bank for the issuance of the manager’s cheque (as well as
requests for bank certificates).</div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1.0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->-<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->As of August 2012, the service fee was 500 pesos
and the courier fee for direct lodgment in Manila was 200 pesos (Total of PHP
700). Make sure to check the Immigration New Zealand (INZ) website for an
updated <a href="http://www.immigration.govt.nz/branch/manila/lodgingyourapplication/" target="_blank">list of applicable fees</a>.</div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1.0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: justify;">
<i>For the next items, original and
photocopy of these documents must be prepared:<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->d)<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->Travel itinerary or flight bookings <i><o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1.0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->-<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->Your itinerary should match the number of days
you intend to stay in New Zealand. If you’re heading to Australia first before
going to New Zealand, make sure to include that in your itinerary, too. </div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1.0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->-<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->If you’re worried that you may not be granted a
visa, consider purchasing a ticket departing from the Philippines to New
Zealand (or from Australia to New Zealand) first. You may book a return ticket
once your visa application’s approved. Another option is to avail of those
budget flights to New Zealand so that you won’t hurt your wallet. The risk is
that such flights cannot be rebooked. </div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->e)<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->Evidence of funds for support </div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1.0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->-<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->These include your savings account passbook,
bank certificates, credit card statements (which show your credit limit) and
other documents that can prove your sources of funds or assets such as a land
title.</div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1.0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->-<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->A good credit and savings history would help
prove your capability to support your travel to New Zealand. Thus, if you are
not paying your credit card bills in full, make sure to settle them before you
apply for a visa. Also, make regular
deposits and withdrawals to your savings account. Do not simply deposit a large
amount of cash to your bank account because that may appear suspicious.</div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1.0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->-<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->A personal rule I follow when submitting
evidence of funds is that the money I have should reflect more than the total
cost of roundtrip tickets, accommodations, tours, food, travel insurance and
pocket money. </div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->f)<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->If you’re employed: Evidence of employment </div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1.0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->-<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->This refers to your employment certificate,
written on the company letterhead and bearing the company’s stamp and signature
of the company head or the head of the human resource department. The
employment certificate must indicate your name, position, salary, length of
employment, leave approval, as well as your employer’s name and contact
details. </div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->g)<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span>If self-employed or running your own business:
Business or company registration certificate which proves ownership and your
company’s bank statements. </div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->h)<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span>Clear copy of any visa issued to you (e.g., U.S.
Visa, Taiwan Visa, etc.)</div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->i)<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->Letter of invitation or copy of correspondence
with your business contacts if traveling for the first time to New Zealand for
business purposes.</div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-add-space: auto; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin-left: -4.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; text-align: justify;">
There
are other requirements in case you’re traveling for family-related purposes
(e.g., family reunions or weddings). Please refer to the <a href="http://www.immigration.govt.nz/NR/rdonlyres/A0EC4720-CA00-4883-B14B-8D8DEB3874FB/0/VisitorVisaChecklistJune2012.pdf" target="_blank">INZ Visitor Visa checklist</a>
for more information.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>Step 3: Place your completed application form and all
requirements in a long brown envelope.</b><br />
Make
sure to review all your documents and check if these are complete before
placing them inside the envelope. Incomplete requirements can affect your visa
application.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>Step 4: Lodge your application.</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Applying
for a visitor’s visa to New Zealand is surprisingly less complicated than
applying for a visa to the U.S. There is
no need to schedule an online appointment or talk to a consul. Just bring all the requirements to the <b>VIA
Center</b>, located at the <b>3<sup>rd</sup> floor of Allegro Center, 2284 Chino Roces</b>
(Pasong Tamo) Extension, Barangay Magallanes, Makati City. Lodging of
applications is from <b>8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. (Monday to Friday) and 8:30 a.m. to
12:00 noon (Saturday)</b>. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZEvSS3cZlrI/UFtq-V0ArvI/AAAAAAAAA18/20ZKXD2ljFI/s1600/VIA+Manila+map.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="247" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZEvSS3cZlrI/UFtq-V0ArvI/AAAAAAAAA18/20ZKXD2ljFI/s320/VIA+Manila+map.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Map to the VIA Center in Makati <br />(Downloaded from the Immigration New Zealand Website)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Upon
arrival at the center, you’d be asked to sign the visitor’s logbook. Then you’d
be issued a form and a queue number. Fill-up the form, take a seat and wait for
your turn to be called. A VIA staff will then review your documents then ask
you give your payment to the cashier. You will be issued a receipt and a slip
of paper that your visa application has been received. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
The
decision for granting a visitor’s visa remains with the Immigration New Zealand
office. Average processing time is 15 working days. There’s no need to go back
to VIA to find out the status of your visa application. Your passport and other
documents will be returned via courier once a decision has been made. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Alternatively, you can lodge your application
through the VIA Call Center. This requires a higher courier fee (PHP 350 as of
July 2012) which can be included in the bank draft/manager’s cheque. Your passport and other documents will be
picked up then returned to your delivery address.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
On
a personal note, I think that aside from strong evidence of financial capacity
to support one’s travel, having a visa from another county expedites the
application process. A colleague with a
US visa received his visa in 10 days while my mother, who has US, Schengen and China
visas, was granted a New Zealand visitor visa in less than a week.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
By
the way, application for a visitor’s visa to Australia is also done at the VIA
Center in Makati (It’s literally across the New Zealand booths). Find out how
you can lodge a visitor’s visa to Australia in my next post.<i>(Coming soon!) </i> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
-------------------------------- </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<i>Getting to the VIA Center in Manila: <o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Take the MRT, get off at
Magallanes station (head to the exit at Alphaland Mall), then ride a jeep with
a “Gate 3” signage. Ask the driver to drop you off at the Allegro Center. It’s
about 2 blocks away from the GSK (Glaxo-SmithKline) office. You’ll know you’re
at Allegro when you see a building with a Starbucks café.<br />
<br />
<i>Source: </i><a href="http://www.immigration.govt.nz/branch/manila/">http://www.immigration.govt.nz/branch/manila/</a><br />
<br /></div>
Rainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08420708024847226996noreply@blogger.com49ALEGRIA BUILDING Chino Roces Ave, Makati City, Philippines14.543334623653786 121.0175800323486314.541413623653787 121.01511253234864 14.545255623653786 121.02004753234863tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7436402682566663162.post-78378307724481071712012-09-01T14:34:00.000+08:002013-01-02T18:48:31.245+08:00Mark Your Calendars: 2013 Holidays in the Philippines<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">Like it? Share it on Facebook or Twitter!</span></i><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-muT7LewULC4/UEGmgFwnNRI/AAAAAAAAA1M/WB2tMsZMwjY/s1600/christmas+bora.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="181" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-muT7LewULC4/UEGmgFwnNRI/AAAAAAAAA1M/WB2tMsZMwjY/s320/christmas+bora.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Boracay is one of the favorite travel destinations of Filipinos<br />
during holidays.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">It's never too early to make your travel plans. The Philippine government, through <a href="http://www.gov.ph/2012/08/16/proclamation-no-459-s-2012/" target="_blank">Proclamation No. 459 s. 2012</a>, has released the schedule of regular holidays, special non-working days and special holidays (for schools only) for 2013. Therefore, if you'll be exploring the Philippine Islands, this means you should book your flights and accommodations early in case your visit falls on a holiday or a long weekend. If you're a Filipino traveler, this list would help you in planning your leaves and arranging trips or reunions with your family or friends. Mark your calendars as I present the holidays by date: </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span></div>
<a name='more'></a><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">January 1
(Tues) New Year’s Day<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">February 25 (Mon) EDSA Revolution Anniversary<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #333333; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">March
28 (Thurs) Maundy Thursday<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #333333; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">March
29 (Fri) Good Friday<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #333333; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">March
30 (Sat) Black Saturday<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #333333; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">April
9 (Tues) Araw ng Kagitingan<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #333333; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">May
1 (Wed) Labor Day<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #333333; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">June
12 (Wed) Independence Day<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #333333; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">August
21(Wed) Ninoy Aquino Day<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #333333; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">August 26 (Mon) National Heroes Day<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #333333; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">November
1 (Fri) All Saints Day<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #333333; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">November
2 (Sat) All Souls Day <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #333333; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">November
30 (Sat) Bonifacio
Day<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #333333; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">December
24 (Tues) Christmas Eve <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #333333; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">December
25 (Wed) Christmas Day<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #333333; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">December
30 (Mon) Rizal Day<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #333333; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">December
31 (Tues) Last day of the year<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #333333; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-q9vfl5m88UU/UEGg1-Ush2I/AAAAAAAAA0s/3nWdctbFDAA/s1600/christmas1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="166" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-q9vfl5m88UU/UEGg1-Ush2I/AAAAAAAAA0s/3nWdctbFDAA/s320/christmas1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Christmas is one of the holidays you can look forward to<br />
in the Philippines.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #333333; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Take advantage of the long vacations by spending more time in your favorite travel destinations during Christmas (Dec 24 to 25), Rizal Day (long vacation starting from weekend of Dec.28 until New Year), Holy Week (Mar. 28 to Apr. 1), National Heroes Day (long weekend Aug 24-26), All Saints Day and All Souls Day (long weekend Nov. 1 to 3). </span><span style="color: #333333; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Take note, too, that the EDSA Revolution Anniversary is a special holiday for schools only. So if you have a child, you need to take a leave from work if you want to spend more time with them. </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #333333; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #333333; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The dates for the observance of Eid'l Fit'r and Eidul Adha, which are both national holidays, will be released once these have been determined in accordance to the Islamic calendar. Unlike last year though, the Chinese New Year celebration was not declared as a non-working holiday. </span></span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #333333; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Anyway, the important thing is you should start making your travel plans now. Life is short, travel! :-)</span></span></div>
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<i style="color: #333333; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Source: www.gov.ph </span></i></div>
Rainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08420708024847226996noreply@blogger.com11Philippines9.4490618268814188 121.640625-21.213844173118581 81.2109375 40.111967826881418 162.0703125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7436402682566663162.post-89500462888717357872012-08-28T05:30:00.000+08:002012-08-30T02:07:42.561+08:00Geneva on a Budget: Seeing the City on the Cheap<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<i style="text-align: start;">This is the second guest post by fellow wanderlust <a href="http://raintravels.blogspot.com/2012/01/meet-traveler-oma.html" target="_blank">Oma</a>. She was able to travel to Geneva, Switzerland last July and stayed there for almost 3 weeks. All photos were taken by her. </i></div>
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<tr><td><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-s63FpYL9M2A/UC8yF8vkIUI/AAAAAAAAAz0/b--Ck6UzRdA/s1600/Geneva+Switzerland+_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="218" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-s63FpYL9M2A/UC8yF8vkIUI/AAAAAAAAAz0/b--Ck6UzRdA/s320/Geneva+Switzerland+_1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Sit back and relax while watching Geneva's iconic <br />
Jet d 'Eau, a 140-meter water fountain.</td></tr>
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<span style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 0.5in;">When I learned I got accepted to a graduate study program in Geneva, Switzerland, I became more excited of the fact that I would be able to travel to Europe. Perhaps that feeling of excitement and elation steered me away from doing a very fundamental research – determining the cost of living in Geneva. It was too late when I found out that in various global surveys, Geneva would almost always make it among the top 5 most expensive cities in the world. So for those of you who are contemplating of travelling to this quaint, multi-cultural, French speaking city in Switzerland, let this serve as a warning.</span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eAJf_ANzrgU/UC83c4ovDPI/AAAAAAAAA0M/T3XyXEGmKYQ/s1600/Geneva+Switzerland+_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eAJf_ANzrgU/UC83c4ovDPI/AAAAAAAAA0M/T3XyXEGmKYQ/s320/Geneva+Switzerland+_5.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">You won't forget that you're in Switzerland when you see this building <br />
along Rue de la Corraterie. </td></tr>
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<span lang="EN-PH"> You would need serious mental (<i>and financial</i>) preparation to fully enjoy the visual charm of Geneva. So here are my few and (<i>hopefully</i>) helpful budget tips: </span><br />
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<span lang="EN-PH">1.<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><span lang="EN-PH">Accommodation – While a backpackers’ hotel is an obvious choice, dormitories run by religious
organisations offer the cheapest rate.
I stayed at a female dormitory called Foyer L’Accueil. At CHF 27/night, I had a room to myself and a
basic breakfast – that is a piece of bread, spread and hot drink. <i>(Sorry, no cereals or eggs.</i>) Toilets and kitchen were shared. Other accommodations would give you a choice
of either breakfast or daily transport ticket. </span></div>
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<span lang="EN-PH">2.<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><span lang="EN-PH">Transportation – Since Geneva
is a small city, most of the must-see places are close to each other. If you’re
doing sight-seeing in the city, it is best to travel on foot. If you’ll stay in the city for more than two
weeks, it is wiser to buy the monthly pass which allows you unlimited travel
around Geneva by tram, bus and to the airport by train. If you want to go to nearby places outside of
Geneva such as Montreaux and Lausanne, then buying train tickets online is way cheaper
than purchasing them from SBB/CFF/FFS (Swiss Federal Railways) ticket office on the actual day of your
travel. Even though the tickets sold in the office are flexi tickets (<i>meaning
you can take the train anytime within that day or you are not tied down to a
fixed train schedule</i>), you can save at least half the ticket price when you
purchase it online. </span></div>
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<tr><td><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bzZbc4I1-HE/UC8z_2zmlKI/AAAAAAAAAz8/JDso5Ul3Brs/s1600/Geneva+Switzerland+_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bzZbc4I1-HE/UC8z_2zmlKI/AAAAAAAAAz8/JDso5Ul3Brs/s320/Geneva+Switzerland+_2.jpg" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">In Geneva, walking is good for your wallet (and health).</td></tr>
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<span lang="EN-PH">3.<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><span lang="EN-PH">Food – A decent meal in
restaurants whichever side of Geneva they are (business or student area) would
cost at least CHF 18. Of course, cooking
your own food is the best way to save (although grocery is also expensive). If your accommodation does not allow you to cook, then there is a variety of
quite good cooked meals in <b>Manor La Placette</b>, a department and grocery store,
for at least CHF 10. If that price is
beyond your budget, you can always buy bread or sandwiches which cost between CHF
2 to 7. </span></div>
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<span lang="EN-PH">4.<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Shopping – I usually do not
shop when I travel (<i>I'm a bit of a cheapskate</i>) but I noticed that in Geneva, clothes (t<i>he unbranded ones,
of course</i>) are surprisingly cheaper than food. There are quite a few shopping stores in the
city but if you are in for a different treat, there is a weekend flea market at
<b>Plaine de Plainpalais</b> that sell a range of interesting vintage or items and
collectibles. </span><br />
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<tr><td><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-E2-0nX8FRy0/UC81jMYj5RI/AAAAAAAAA0E/q_WhNctXO2M/s1600/Geneva+Switzerland+_4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-E2-0nX8FRy0/UC81jMYj5RI/AAAAAAAAA0E/q_WhNctXO2M/s320/Geneva+Switzerland+_4.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">This flea market at Plainpalais is also the best place to mingle with locals.</td></tr>
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<span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">5. </span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Internet - (</span><i style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Skip this tip if you booked a hotel or hostel with free WiFi). </i><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">I learned that there's an </span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">increasing number of WiFi hot spots in Geneva. Do a quick online search of those spots before you </span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">leave for Geneva so that you can easily browse the net using your iPhone or laptop. Geneva's airport, </span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">public library as well as some McDonald's stores also offer free WiFi. If you</span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"> </span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">prefer to upload </span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">your travel photos while inside your budget accommodation, prepare to spend around 5 CHF for a </span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">week-long internet subscription.</span></div>
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There's really no need to spend a fortune when exploring Geneva if you do your research ahead of time.<br />
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<i> Planning to go to Geneva? Got other budget tips? Feel free to share them below!</i><br />
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<i>You might also be interested in: <a href="http://raintravels.blogspot.com/2012/01/sydney-on-budget-guide-for-filipino.html" target="_blank">Sydney on a Budget</a>. </i><br />
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Rainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08420708024847226996noreply@blogger.com3Jet d'Eau, Quai Gustave Ador 1, 1505 Geneva, Switzerland46.2073746 6.15587646.2060011 6.1534085 46.2087481 6.1583435tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7436402682566663162.post-27630431795680698032012-08-06T18:19:00.000+08:002012-08-06T18:13:00.623+08:00Hear Ye! Hear Ye! Philippine Holidays and Special Days for 2012<i>Like it? Share it on Facebook or Twitter!</i><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Christmas Day 2012 is on a Tuesday!</td></tr>
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[UPDATE*] It looks like Filipinos will have lots of time to travel especially this August. The Philippine government has already announced that Eid al Fitr or the End of Ramadan will be observed on August 20 (Monday) while Eid al Adha (Monday). August 21 (Tuesday) is also a holiday in honor of Ninoy Aquino. That means 4 days (Saturday to Tuesday) free of work and school! In addition, August 27 (Monday) is National Heroes Day. Thus, those planning a weekend getaway on the 25th can stay a little longer in their travel destination.<br />
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<i>Note: If you have a Gmail account, you can check this calendar which includes major Philippine Festivals: <a href="https://www.google.com/calendar/embed?src=raingirl09%40yahoo.com&ctz=Asia/Manila">Rain's Travels Calendar</a></i><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jOWDNO2y7S8/Ttdhsyn--sI/AAAAAAAAAho/SFDzCUUN3Ks/s1600/holiday2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jOWDNO2y7S8/Ttdhsyn--sI/AAAAAAAAAho/SFDzCUUN3Ks/s320/holiday2.jpg" width="188" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Expect a long vacation during Lent <br />
and Araw ng Kagitingan (April 9). </td></tr>
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Some may be disappointed though that December 24 (the day before Christmas) is (still) not included in the list of holidays. Let's hope that the Philippine Government changes its mind soon. Take note, too, that one can enjoy a long vacation on the last week of October until the first week of November. See the schedule below:</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-I1JnK1Dm2fM/Ttdhof8E-JI/AAAAAAAAAhg/_Zs8XnZ36OY/s1600/holiday1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-I1JnK1Dm2fM/Ttdhof8E-JI/AAAAAAAAAhg/_Zs8XnZ36OY/s320/holiday1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rizal Day (December 30) falls on a Sunday.</td></tr>
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<b>REGULAR HOLIDAYS</b></div>
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January 1(Sunday) New Year's Day</div>
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April 5 (Thursday) Maundy Thursday<br />
April 6 (Friday) Good Friday<br />
April 7 (Saturday) Black Saturday </div>
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April 9 (Monday) Araw ng Kagitingan</div>
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May 1 (Tuesday) Labor Day<br />
June 12 (Tuesday) Independence Day<br />
August 27 (Monday) National Heroes Day</div>
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November 30 (Friday) Bonifacio Day</div>
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December 25 (Tuesday) Christmas Day </div>
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December 30 (Sunday) Rizal Day<br />
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<b>SPECIAL (NON-WORKING)
DAYS</b></div>
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January 23 (Monday) Chinese
New Year</div>
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<b>August 20 (Monday) Eid Al Fitr </b><br />
<b>August 21 (Tuesday) Ninoy
Aquino Day</b></div>
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<b>October 26 (Friday) Eid Al Adha </b><br />
<b>November 1 (Thursday) All
Saints Day </b> </div>
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November 2 (Friday) Additional
non-working day (All Souls Day)</div>
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December 31 (Monday) Last
day of the year (Preparation for the New Year)</div>
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<b>SPECIAL HOLIDAY FOR ALL SCHOOLS</b></div>
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February 25 (Saturday) EDSA
Revolution Anniversary</div>
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And as I always encourage, make sure to explore the beautiful places of the Philippines during the holidays. Let it be our own little way of helping our country!</div>
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<i>What do you think of this year's holiday schedule? Where would you most likely travel during the holidays? </i></div>
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*Originally published on December 1, 2011.</div>
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Rainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08420708024847226996noreply@blogger.com1Manila, Philippines14.5995124 120.984219514.5380484 120.9052555 14.660976400000001 121.0631835tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7436402682566663162.post-79357549981031453912012-04-17T23:30:00.000+08:002012-04-18T00:05:56.614+08:00Have You Heard of the Boulevard?<i>Like it? Share it on Facebook or Twitter!</i><br />
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Have you ever Googled something and couldn't find any information that was useful to you? This was what happened to me during the Holy Week when I searched on the Internet for "Boulevard", an attraction in Bauan. A relative told me to visit the "Boulevard" as that was where most Bauan residents spend their weekends. Surprisingly, it's not even listed in their local government website.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uYdheFVoy4g/T42Qba527zI/AAAAAAAAAzg/r8xHP73K-Sg/s1600/boulevard+google.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="166" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uYdheFVoy4g/T42Qba527zI/AAAAAAAAAzg/r8xHP73K-Sg/s320/boulevard+google.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">C'mon, Google. I'm sure the Boulevard is not a fast food restaurant!</td></tr>
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My curiosity piqued, I decided to head to Bauan, an industrialized municipality in the province of Batangas, south of Manila. I imagined that the Boulevard is perhaps similar to the old Manila Baywalk in Roxas or a street lined up with palm trees similar to Sunset Boulevard in San Francisco.<br />
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It was neither of the two. It turns out that Bauan's Boulevard is a beach. A public beach!</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zJSG2Xwaqz8/T4wh1Kps1_I/AAAAAAAAAzI/hwplk6mBw3o/s1600/boulevard+bauan+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="262" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zJSG2Xwaqz8/T4wh1Kps1_I/AAAAAAAAAzI/hwplk6mBw3o/s400/boulevard+bauan+2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sunset at the Boulevard.</td></tr>
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The Boulevard is located at Aplaya and is part of the Batangas Bay coastline, one of the two bays bordering Bauan. It's about 10 to 15 minutes away by private or public transport (tricycle) from the Immaculate Conception Church of Bauan. The Boulevard's long coastline has fine, gray sand similar to some of the beaches in Zambales and Samar. The beach's waters are quite shallow with small waves regularly kissing the shore.<br />
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The Boulevard is a beach without the frills: There are no resorts, large umbrellas and beach chairs. Instead, there are picnic huts for rent. There are no restaurants too, just a few stalls selling grilled food and stores offering some snacks. It's thus not surprising to see beach-goers bringing their own food and drinks, with a few bringing banana leaves, perhaps for a fun boodle fight.<br />
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You can see in the photos that there were a lot of people on the beach. I was told that most residents come in the afternoon to catch the sunset and swim on the warm waters. They bring with them their own beach floats and lifesavers. Some rent the few motorboats, jet skis and kayaks that are provided by the municipality's local officials (who are also in-charge of supervising the activities on the Boulevard).<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-w6g4WV-JAF4/T4xDhjru3wI/AAAAAAAAAzY/7XEeSXYDyNA/s1600/bauan+boulevard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-w6g4WV-JAF4/T4xDhjru3wI/AAAAAAAAAzY/7XEeSXYDyNA/s400/bauan+boulevard.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Various ways to have fun at the Boulevard.</td></tr>
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The Boulevard is definitely not the pristine beach with the sugary-white sand and panoramic views that most beach-goers prefer. However, if you are on a budget, need a break from the smoldering heat of the sun and want to brag that you have been to a beach only a few people know about, then you might enjoy a day trip to this seaside destination. Otherwise, head to Balayan Bay, also in Bauan, which has a richer marine life. <br />
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<br /></div>Rainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08420708024847226996noreply@blogger.com2B. Bejasa St, Bauan, Philippines13.781735621361634 121.0037612915039113.750893121361633 120.9642792915039 13.812578121361634 121.04324329150391tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7436402682566663162.post-8009908273414701562012-04-07T05:30:00.000+08:002012-04-10T22:35:42.284+08:00The Out of the Box Church of the Gesù<i>Like it? Share it on Facebook or Twitter!</i><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-I9UlonSJy1o/T38WGelATFI/AAAAAAAAAyw/wPOKVTvzt0M/s1600/church+of+the+gesu+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="260" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-I9UlonSJy1o/T38WGelATFI/AAAAAAAAAyw/wPOKVTvzt0M/s320/church+of+the+gesu+4.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The rhythm and balance of elements in the Gesu's interiors is striking. </td></tr>
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Think all the beautiful churches in the Philippines observe Baroque architecture? Wait until you see the Church of the Ge<span style="font-family: inherit;">s<span style="background-color: #f6f8fa;">ù</span></span>. Located inside the Ateneo de Manila University in Quezon City, it is not hard to miss this unique architectural wonder once you explore the campus.</div>
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<tr><td><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ATlYtl-Ym4w/T38cW5PGyKI/AAAAAAAAAzA/xYvIf0l7onM/s1600/church+of+the+gesu+7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="262" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ATlYtl-Ym4w/T38cW5PGyKI/AAAAAAAAAzA/xYvIf0l7onM/s320/church+of+the+gesu+7.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Seen from the side, the Gesu looks like a UFO that landed on a hill.</td></tr>
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Depending on your imagination, the Church of the Ge<span style="font-family: inherit;">s<span style="background-color: #f6f8fa;">ù</span></span> could look like a lot of things: A modern pyramid, a triangular alien spacecraft, an apostle's hands folded in prayer, a gigantic white Toblerone, the hands of a priest raising a cross, an eagle about to take flight (<i>from an Atenean)</i> or the profile of a roaring lion (<i>the last one's from my nephew). </i>Unlike the popular churches of the Philippines, this was designed not by a priest or a Filipino artisan. It is actually the first church designed by local architects Jose Pedro Recio and Carmelo Casas. The typical frescoes on walls and ceilings as well as the stained glass windows were ditched for a design that is in harmony with its lush surroundings. </div>
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<a href="http://ateneo.edu/index.php?p=1717" target="_blank">Father Rodrigo D. Perez III </a>e<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: #f6f8fa;">loquently described the </span></span>Ge<span style="font-family: inherit;">s<span style="background-color: #f6f8fa;">ù </span></span><span style="background-color: #f6f8fa; font-family: inherit;">this way: </span></div>
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<i><span style="background-color: #f6f8fa; font-family: inherit;">While stunningly modern, the </span>Ge<span style="font-family: inherit;">s<span style="background-color: #f6f8fa;">ù is a fine example of Filipino architecture. The sheltering roof recalls the dominance of the roof in ethnic architecture. The structure is visually light, airy and transparent. The combination of light and abundant space conforms to the Filipino ideal of "maaliwalas". The interior space flows to the outdoors, and the lush tropical vegetation around the church is brought in. The entrance expresses Christian and Filipino hospitality as the ends of the roof dip down to form what seems like arms extended in welcome.</span></span></i></div>
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<tr><td><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-njFzmpoVWD8/T38WnhWYZgI/AAAAAAAAAy4/ObK4w9PuKsA/s1600/church+of+the+gesu+11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-njFzmpoVWD8/T38WnhWYZgI/AAAAAAAAAy4/ObK4w9PuKsA/s320/church+of+the+gesu+11.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">The church is "maaliwalas" - pleasant, bright, spacious and well-ventilated.</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: #f6f8fa;">Interestingly, it looks very much different from the church that it was named after, the <a href="http://www.digital-images.net/Gallery/Scenic/Rome/Churches/GesuCarcere/gesucarcere.html#Chiesa-delGesu" target="_blank">Chiesa del Gesu in Rome</a></span></span><span style="background-color: #f6f8fa; font-family: inherit;"> <i>(click on the link to see how it looks like)</i> which is considered as the most Baroque church in all of Rome. Although the difference is like night and day, both are striking and peaceful. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #f6f8fa; font-family: inherit;">The </span>Ge<span style="font-family: inherit;">s<span style="background-color: #f6f8fa;">ù is open to the public* and can be found at the corner of University Road and Father Masterson Drive, overlooking the Bellarmine Field of the Ateneo campus. Take time to visit this out of the box place of worship when you're in Quezon City. </span></span></div>
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<i>So, what churches in the Philippines have you visited? Which one did you like best? How do you think it compares to the Gesu? Share it on the comments section below!</i></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: #f6f8fa;"><i>*- Note: Guests must log-in at the gate to enter the campus or leave an identification card. Contact the Liturgical Committee at 426-6069 or 426-6001 local 4071 should you wish to check if the church is open at the time you'll be visiting. For more photos, go to my <a href="https://www.facebook.com/raintravels.blog" target="_blank">Facebook page</a>. </i></span></span></div>
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<b>You might also be interested in:</b> </div>
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<a href="http://raintravels.blogspot.com/2011/07/beauty-at-paco-park.html" target="_blank"><b>Paco Park - St. Pancratius Chapel</b></a></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: #f6f8fa;"><br /></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: #f6f8fa;"><a href="http://raintravels.blogspot.com/2011/03/manila-transitio-1945-history-in-vivid.html" target="_blank"><b>Manila Cathedral and San Agustin Church</b></a></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #303030; font-family: Georgia;"><span style="font-size: 11px;"><br /></span></span>Rainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08420708024847226996noreply@blogger.com0Father Masterson Dr, Ateneo de Manila University, Quezon City, Philippines14.639811501802354 121.0800647735595714.638851501802355 121.07883077355957 14.640771501802353 121.08129877355957tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7436402682566663162.post-48625023217882155952012-04-04T09:29:00.000+08:002012-04-04T09:29:40.750+08:005 Best Places to Observe Holy Week in the Philippines<i>Like it? Share it on Facebook or Twitter!</i><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This could also be: Holy Week. More fun in the Philippines.</td></tr>
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Do not be surprised if you find a lot of locals and tourists in ports, terminals and tourist attractions this week. Holy Week in the Philippines is an important celebration observed by many Catholics in this country. Government offices as well as most business and commercial establishments close early or cease operations during Holy Week, especially from Maundy Thursday until Black Saturday. And for this year, most offices (including museums) are closed until April 9 (Monday) since it's Araw ng Kagitingan or Day of Valor, a national holiday.</div>
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For those who wish to observe the religiosity, traditions and mysticism of the Filipinos' Holy Week celebration, it would be a good idea to head to any Catholic Church (especially in Manila, Batangas and Laguna) and check the schedule of Lenten activities. Now for those who want a little more adventure, these are the best places to visit and observe the major events of Holy Week in the Philippines:</div>
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1. <b>Marinduque - </b>The heart-shaped island of Marinduque, located south of Quezon Province, is well-known for its annual celebration of the <b>Moriones Festival. </b>The festival commemorates the story of Longinus, a Roman soldier whose sight was restored by the blood of Jesus Christ. Large community parades are held in Marinduque's major towns with men wearing colorful masks and costumes that are inspired by Roman soldiers searching for Longinus. There are also street plays that highlight Jesus' walk to Calvary as well as the beheading of Longinus. Below are the schedule of activities from the Marinduque government's website: </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1b7_EvdX9S0/T3tArWPi8sI/AAAAAAAAAyQ/fOcWSUBFNQQ/s1600/sched1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="256" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1b7_EvdX9S0/T3tArWPi8sI/AAAAAAAAAyQ/fOcWSUBFNQQ/s320/sched1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Moriones Schedule: Holy Monday to Holy Wednesday</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DtFMC3Lm5nE/T3tAup_N1kI/AAAAAAAAAyY/nhA9749NSvY/s1600/sched2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="247" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DtFMC3Lm5nE/T3tAup_N1kI/AAAAAAAAAyY/nhA9749NSvY/s320/sched2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Moriones Schedule: Maundy Thursday to Easter Sunday</td></tr>
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2<b>. San Fernando, Pampanga - </b>During Holy Week, thousands of spectators head to the barangays of San Juan, Sta. Lucia and San Pedro Cutud in Pampanga to witness the <i>Maleldo,</i> considered as one of the weirdest festivals in Asia. The Maleldo is a reenactment of Christ's long walk to Calvary and his crucifixion on the cross. What makes it bizarre to most observers is that the participants of the Maleldo practice flagellation while others reenact the crucifixion by having themselves literally nailed to a cross. <i>(Note: This is not for the faint-hearted!)</i> This Holy Week tradition marks its 50th year this Good Friday (April 6). According to Sun Star Pampanga, the Maleldo rites will start at 9:00 a.m. in San Juan, followed by the Via Crucis at 10:00 a.m. Re-enactment at San Pedro Cutud will start at 11:00 a.m. while the nailing on the cross will begin at around 1:00 p.m.<br />
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3<b>. </b><b>Lucban, Quezon - </b>Although it's more popular for its colorful <i>Pahiyas Festival</i> (held every May 15), Lucban is also known among locals as the venue of the most fervent celebrations of <i>Semana Santa</i>, from the lively <i>Pabasa</i> (religious chanting) to the festive dousing of water during Easter.(Read more about Lucban's Lenten activites in this <a href="http://langyaw.com/2008/03/19/semana-santa-in-lucban-quezon/" target="_blank">post</a>.) Lucban is also the location of the Kamay ni Hesus Shrine. Hundreds of pilgrims arrive very early during Holy Week to climb on 300 steps to reach the statue of the resurrected Jesus Christ on top of the hill. Some residents from neighboring towns, as an expression of their devotion, walk all the way from their homes to the shrine!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EnB0LOB1Atc/T3tlShYRp7I/AAAAAAAAAyg/jdXfyapn-q4/s1600/lucban.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EnB0LOB1Atc/T3tlShYRp7I/AAAAAAAAAyg/jdXfyapn-q4/s320/lucban.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lucban's Church (L) and Kamay ni Hesus (R).<br />
(Church photos from Sen Villanueva). </td></tr>
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4<b>. Ilocos Norte and Ilocos Sur - </b>These two provinces of the Ilocos region, located 8 hours away by land from Manila, are famous for their old churches and natural wonders. Thus, it is a good place to observe Holy Week especially if you want to participate in a <i>Visita Iglesia</i>, the tradition of visiting 7 or 14 churches and pray the Stations of the Cross. This is usually done on Maundy Thursday although some visit churches earlier in the week to avoid crowds. Most towns in Ilocos, especially Pasuquin in Ilocos Norte and the city of <a href="http://raintravels.blogspot.com/2011/05/northern-exposure-enchanted-in-vigan.html" target="_blank">Vigan in Ilocos Sur</a> observe Holy Week with much solemnity and pageantry. Naturally, by Easter Sunday, locals head to the beaches of Pagudpod and other <a href="http://raintravels.blogspot.com/2012/03/3-days-in-ilocos-travel-itinerary.html" target="_blank">attractions of Ilocos</a> to celebrate Christ's resurrection.<br />
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5. <b>Antipolo City - </b>The Shrine of Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage can be found in the City of Antipolo, located east of Manila. During Holy Week, devotees of Our Lady, also known as the Virgin of Antipolo, commemorate the return of Blessed Virgin's image to Antipolo from Quiapo Church, where it was temporarily stored for safekeeping during the Second World War. Called <i>Alay Lakad</i>, devotees start their pilgrimage during the evening of Maundy Thursday (April 5) until they reach Antipolo on the dawn of Good Friday (April 6).<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-E8RN0TMxmc8/Tirl23fCjEI/AAAAAAAAAPY/mUx8f99xk0Q/s1600/Antipolo+Church.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-E8RN0TMxmc8/Tirl23fCjEI/AAAAAAAAAPY/mUx8f99xk0Q/s320/Antipolo+Church.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Antipolo Church: Shrine of Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage</td></tr>
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<i>Now that I've shared with you some of the best places to observe Holy Week in the Philippines, it's now your turn to share your thoughts. Where will you be spending Holy Week? Is Holy Week observed in your hometown? Have you witnessed any unusual or unique Holy Week celebration in another country? </i><br />
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<b><br /></b></div>Rainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08420708024847226996noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7436402682566663162.post-85528962859491010922012-03-25T09:00:00.000+08:002012-03-25T09:00:02.204+08:00Sustainable Seafood: A Better Choice for Our Seas<i>Skip that shark meat or turtle egg on your next food adventure. Eating exotic seafood isn't cool.</i><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ilgaQKsgLyw/T24U4LalBfI/AAAAAAAAAyI/BQHaMevniNQ/s1600/SEAFOOD.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ilgaQKsgLyw/T24U4LalBfI/AAAAAAAAAyI/BQHaMevniNQ/s320/SEAFOOD.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The fate of our seas depends on what we decide to put on our plates.</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">What's<b> Sustainable seafood</b>?<b> </b>It<b> </b>isn’t
some fancy trend that celebrity chefs and top restaurateurs abroad started to
drive more patrons to their restaurants. Sustainable seafood, in simple terms,
is about <b>changing our attitudes as consumers</b>. It is saying no to consumption of
endangered fish species and dwindling marine stocks as well as illegal and
unsustainable fishing practices.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">According to Mr. Gregg Yan, Communications
and Media Manager of the World Wide Fund for Nature Philippines
(WWF-Philippines), </span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Filipinos need to
practice responsible consumption, sourcing and culture of marine resources.
Different sectors of Philippine society must take action to protect our
dwindling marine species. WWF-Philippines, through T</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">he Better Choice (TBC) Sustainable Seafood Campaign,<b> </b>provides general and simple guidelines
for consumers in choosing sustainable seafood alternatives (e.g., seafood
caught and farmed responsibly) </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">to help
currently threatened stocks recover.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Eat
this, not that<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Whether buying seafood from
the market or grocery, ordering seafood from a restaurant or trying a local
dish in one’s trip, choosing sustainable seafood is the best way to improve
marine life and prevent the loss of major commercial fish species. According to
Mr. Yan, when buying or ordering
seafood, we should ask ourselves about its value, source and its impacts on the
environment. Generally, we should avoid consuming these endangered or
vulnerable species:</span></div>
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<li><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; text-indent: -0.25in;">All sharks</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; text-indent: -0.25in;">All rays</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; text-indent: -0.25in;">Sea turtles and turtle eggs</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; text-indent: -0.25in;">Napoleon Wrasse (<i>Mameng</i>)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; text-indent: -0.25in;">Dolphins</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; text-indent: -0.25in;">Sea cows (<i>Dugong</i>)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; text-indent: -0.25in;">Bluefin Tuna</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; text-indent: -0.25in;">Sea Bass</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; text-indent: -0.25in;">Cod</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; text-indent: -0.25in;">Giant Clams</span></li>
</ul>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NTTqYzc_Vr0/T24C69aFfNI/AAAAAAAAAxw/hGcyKaEio18/s1600/exotic+seafood+for+sale_sharks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center; text-indent: 0px;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NTTqYzc_Vr0/T24C69aFfNI/AAAAAAAAAxw/hGcyKaEio18/s320/exotic+seafood+for+sale_sharks.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> Baby sharks should be on the sea, not in a restaurant's fish tank.<br />
(Photo by Gregg Yan/WWF-Philippines)</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">We must remember that suppliers
react to demand. According to Mr. Yan, “</span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">If you are a supplier and you know you’re going to
fetch around $100 per kilogramme for an exotic fish, then you might be more
willing to break the law and scour more reefs to meet consumer demand.” </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Thus, the fates of these threatened marine species
depend on what we choose to buy and put on our plates. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">It
would also help to change our attitudes towards rare or exotic seafood. Eating exotic
seafood like shark’s fin or giant clams is not exactly more enjoyable than
consuming more common species like mackerel or oysters. In fact, TIME magazine
reported two years ago that a growing number of top chefs in Europe have
scrapped endangered fish like Bluefin tuna and codfish off their menus and have
replaced them with lesser known seafood species that are just as tasty and far
more plentiful. This just goes to show that the demand for these protected
species has nothing to do with taste but with the value people place on them. Here
in the Philippines, WWF encourages people to choose:</span></div>
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</div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; text-indent: -0.25in;">Freshwater fish over marine fish</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; text-indent: -0.25in;">Sustainably-cultured fish over wild-caught fish</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; text-indent: -0.25in;">Carnivores over herbivores</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; text-indent: -0.25in;">Adult fish over juvenile fish</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; text-indent: -0.25in;">Groupers or snappers over Napoleon Wrasse (<i>Mameng)</i></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; text-indent: -0.25in;">Yellow fin or Bigeye tuna over Bluefin tuna</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><i style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Tilapia </span></i><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; text-indent: -0.25in;">over Chilean Seabass</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; text-indent: -0.25in;">Faux shark fins over the real ones</span></li>
</ul>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KlILrU3wyBU/T24Ui9PU1VI/AAAAAAAAAyA/sV3AWK61C6s/s1600/Tuna+Trip+for+Mamburao,+Mindoro+by+Gregg+Yan+-+3+-+4+March+2011+(68).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center; text-indent: 0px;"><img border="0" height="227" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KlILrU3wyBU/T24Ui9PU1VI/AAAAAAAAAyA/sV3AWK61C6s/s320/Tuna+Trip+for+Mamburao,+Mindoro+by+Gregg+Yan+-+3+-+4+March+2011+(68).JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Eating yellow fin tuna is the better choice for our seas.<br />
(Photo by Gregg Yan/WWF-Philippines)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<i><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">When we’re out of the country<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Making the right choice
doesn’t end when we go out of town or travel to another country. If you have
been following the news, you are most likely aware that the Philippines is one
of the suppliers of endangered marine species and marine ornamentals, with most
of them sourced through destructive, illegal and unsustainable methods.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">We have to <b>make a conscious
effort to avoid patronizing businesses that offer products made from threatened
species</b>. This means we should skip that hotel
in Hong Kong or Singapore offering shark’s fin soup, even if its restaurant has
a Michelin star. It also means we should not eat at those live reef fish
restaurants popular in China and other Asian countries. Although going to those
establishments symbolize luxury and prestige, dining at those restaurants encourages
wasteful and unsustainable use of our sea stocks. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">We have to tell those
offering us a seafood banquet after our island-hopping tour or diving
expedition that we won’t be eating any endangered fish or anything caught
through illegal fishing methods. It doesn’t mean that when the food we will be
eating was caught by local fisherman that it is the right choice. We have to
find out if these were caught using sustainable fishing methods. Most
importantly, <b>we should not buy any seafood taken from marine-protected areas</b>. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Let
our wallets do the talking<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">When we choose to support
sustainable seafood by making better choices, we start changing things from the
bottom up. Because at the end of the day - we, the consumers, are the driving
force of the seafood industry. Whenever we make a better choice, we not only
help our seas become healthy, we also support the rest of the 40 million
Filipinos who depend on the sea for food and livelihood. In short, we support our
country’s future. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">-------</span></div>
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<i style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 115%; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">This is an excerpt from an article I wrote for The Sea-Ex Navigator: Celebrating the Nautical Lifestyle. The original text was first published at <a href="http://savephilippineseas.com/2011/09/02/making-a-choice-for-our-seas/">Save the Philippine Seas </a>where I serve as a volunteer writer. Acknowledgment to WWF-Philippines and Mr. Gregg Yan for information and photos used for this article. </span></i></div>
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<i style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 115%; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Like it? Share it on Facebook or Twitter! </span></i></div>Rainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08420708024847226996noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7436402682566663162.post-63070894509928426492012-03-25T06:30:00.000+08:002012-04-13T00:31:08.073+08:00My Travels from A to Z: What's Yours? [Updated]<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i>Like it? Share it on Facebook or Twitter!</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: justify;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GSnF0TQz0lM/T0PVnn7QIZI/AAAAAAAAAsA/wtcU95cNYWQ/s1600/ilocos+lighthouse.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GSnF0TQz0lM/T0PVnn7QIZI/AAAAAAAAAsA/wtcU95cNYWQ/s320/ilocos+lighthouse.jpg" width="224" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">L is for Lighthouse. Just one of my favorite things.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">I have always thought it
would be a great idea to relive my travel adventures since I marked my first
year of blogging last January. So when Connie Hum of </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><a href="http://connvoyage.blogspot.com/">Connvoyage</a> asked if I want
to be tagged in this A to Z travel meme, naturally, I said yes. Here's my travel alphabet so that you can reminisce your own adventures while reading about mine: </span></div>
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<b style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;"><span style="color: blue;">A: Age you went on your first trip.</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">Based on my old photos, I have been traveling since I was a toddler. (<i>Don't ask what year!</i>) I guess I am lucky that my family likes going out. I can't recall when was my first international trip though - it's either a trip to Hong Kong or to the U.S.</span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-E7Mcvxw24RQ/T0ObSu292gI/AAAAAAAAArY/aPV90dk5Tmc/s1600/baguio.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-E7Mcvxw24RQ/T0ObSu292gI/AAAAAAAAArY/aPV90dk5Tmc/s320/baguio.jpg" width="254" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of my oldest travel photos was taken in Baguio City<br />
when there were still many pine trees. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"><span style="color: blue;">B: Best (foreign) beer you’ve had and where?</span></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">I'm not a fan of beer. (<i>Sorry!)</i> Somehow they taste all the same to me. So I'll just state the nicest one I've enjoyed, it's a Beer Below Zero in Davao City, Philippines. The freezing cold (not just ice cold) beer was perfect for the humid weather. Now if we're gonna stick strictly to foreign beverage, my pick will be the Mai Tai drink I enjoyed in a bar in Waikiki, Hawaii. For me, Mai Tai and pupus are the perfect summer combo. </span></span><br />
<b style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></span></b><br />
<b style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">C: Cuisine (favorite). </span></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">I am partial to Chinese, Japanese and Vietnamese food. I am constantly in search of the perfect dumplings, tempura, and pho. </span></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"><span style="color: blue;">D: Destination (favorite and least favorite).</span></span></b></div>
</div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">People I know raise their eyebrows whenever I say I didn't really like my trip to Bangkok, Thailand. Though I love the food and the temples, the city was just too chaotic for me (which irks my friend who believes that Manila equals chaos). To each his own, I guess.</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">As for my favorite destination, it's the Philippines. I know, I know, I was born and raised in this country. Yet there is so much beauty to see in this nation's 7, 107 islands that I myself am amazed at what I discover in each of my trips . </span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zHjiD0dbib0/TUl8TA3sj-I/AAAAAAAAADc/ijiDvg5tgkE/s1600/palawan+sunset+at+badjao.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zHjiD0dbib0/TUl8TA3sj-I/AAAAAAAAADc/ijiDvg5tgkE/s320/palawan+sunset+at+badjao.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Catching a sunset in the Philippines: Priceless.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="background-color: transparent;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"><b><span style="color: blue;">E: Event you experienced abroad that made you say “wow.”</span></b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">It's hard to pick one single event as every experience abroad makes me say "Wow!". There's just something magical when you're out of your comfort zone and in a place different from your usual surroundings. Cheesy but true. </span></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vxtt1zlZECY/T0O2gFNFOAI/AAAAAAAAAro/VzrZVJFleEE/s1600/secret+falls.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vxtt1zlZECY/T0O2gFNFOAI/AAAAAAAAAro/VzrZVJFleEE/s320/secret+falls.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Finding the Secret Falls in Hawaii after a long hike <br />
(and shoes not made for hiking) is one of my many "Wow!" moments.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="color: blue; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;"><b>F: Favorite mode of Transportation.</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">Other than getting lost while walking, I like riding on trains.<span style="color: blue;"> </span>Trains let me see both the good side and the hidden face of a city.</span></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"><span style="color: blue;">G: Greatest feeling while traveling.</span></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">That I can do something I have always wanted to do, especially when I travel solo. That I can see for myself something that I used to read or just hear about. It's just totally exhilarating!</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"><span style="color: blue;">H: Hottest place you've traveled to.</span></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">I thought nothing could beat the tropical weather in the Philippines until </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">I walked around Singapore one afternoon. With no trees and lots of concrete, it was so damn HOT that I was sweating buckets.<i> It makes me wonder how the weather is like in South Africa. Anyone who has been there?</i></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: blue; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;"><b>I:</b> </span></span><b style="background-color: transparent;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"> Incredible service you have experienced and where? </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"> </span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">The first thing that came to mind was this experience at a bar in Marriot, Kauai. I ordered a soda and told my companions</span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;"> that I hope it wasn't too obvious that I was the only one not drinking alcohol. I think one of the staff overheard and served my soda in a cocktail glass, garnished with a pineapple and a paper umbrella. A really nice gesture! </span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="color: blue;">J: Journey that took
the longest.</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">The journey that took the longest was my trip to Southeast Asia. My friends and I decided to do an Amazing Race-inspired trip where we visited 4 countries in just 1 week! The planning took long and the journey to each places even longer as we didn't anticipate certain bumps in the road. Still, it was one of the most exciting journeys I've ever had. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ODFh3r-zoxg/T0TCs0X_TWI/AAAAAAAAAsQ/ZW30U8mtgeE/s1600/southeast+asia.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="151" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ODFh3r-zoxg/T0TCs0X_TWI/AAAAAAAAAsQ/ZW30U8mtgeE/s400/southeast+asia.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">5 cities, 4 countries, 7 days. Amazing Race trip around Southeast Asia. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><b><span style="color: blue;">K: Keepsake from your
travels.</span></b><span style="color: #282828; font-size: 7pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
</div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">Pins, banners, magnets and tons of photos. <i>(So touristy, right?)</i> I collect pins and banners whenever I travel outside the country to represent Rotaract. The magnets go to my mom who places them on our fridge's door. Unfortunately, I lost most of those travel souvenirs (including the photos) to Typhoon Ketsana. </span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"><span style="color: blue;">L: Letdown site and where?</span></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">California girls may be unforgettable but Los Angeles, California was just disappointing for me. Being the home of Hollywood, I expected it to be a fun and vibrant place. It wasn't. Maybe the smog ruined it for me. </span></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"><span style="color: blue;">M: Moment where you fell in love with travel</span></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">I don't know the exact moment I fell in love with traveling...maybe it started from those unplanned road trips or those adventure books I read as a kid. I just love traveling and I want to keep doing it till I can. </span></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"><span style="color: blue;">N: Nicest hotel you’ve stayed at.</span></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">When I travel out of the country, I don't really stay in a hotel unless it's a business trip and most of the time, I'm too busy to notice anything but the bed. So I'll just have to say that the most fun hotel stay I had was at the Star Beauty Hotel in Taipei back in 2007. A typhoon hit Taiwan just as my sister and I were about to take our return flight. Our hosts, the Rotaractors of Taipei Toa Tiu Tian, made sure that the weather did not spoil our trip as they spent the day with us eating, sharing stories, playing games and singing in the karaoke. How's that for being nice?</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;"><i>(But if you really want me to name a consistently good hotel I've stayed at, I would say it's Shangri-La.) </i></span></span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Goofing around at Star Beauty Hotel in Taipei.</td></tr>
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<b><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"><span style="color: blue;">O: Obsession. What are you obsessed with taking pictures of while
traveling?</span></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">Architecture, monuments, and bodies of water. I must confess I am not good at taking photos so I often take many shots of something I like.</span></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-K3CYdJjO6mk/T0Oe6wrsIXI/AAAAAAAAArg/kA5ELwlIBM8/s1600/lapu+lapu+shrine+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="background-color: white; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-K3CYdJjO6mk/T0Oe6wrsIXI/AAAAAAAAArg/kA5ELwlIBM8/s320/lapu+lapu+shrine+2.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of my nicer shots of Lapu Lapu's Monument in Cebu.</td></tr>
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<b><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"><span style="color: blue;">P: Passport stamps. How many and from where?</span></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">My latest passport doesn't have a lot of stamps as my recent travels are focused on exploring the Philippines. Do the stamps of the <a href="http://raintravels.blogspot.com/2011/07/explore-metro-with-hero-lakbay-jose.html">Lakbay Rizal Passport</a> count? :)</span></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"><span style="color: blue;">Q: Quirkiest attraction you’ve visited and where</span></span></b></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">Watching barbers cutting hair on the sidewalks of Hanoi, meeting Ladyboys in Bangkok, going to a man-made beach in Singapore, seeing Betel nut beauties in Taiwan, going to the Cemetery of Negativism in Baguio - doesn't every destination have a quirky attraction?</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"> It's hard to pick just one. </span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-C9B_KKyNqWg/TqGTRIzSW9I/AAAAAAAAAVk/tQ7V7Rrfs14/s1600/hanoi3+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-C9B_KKyNqWg/TqGTRIzSW9I/AAAAAAAAAVk/tQ7V7Rrfs14/s320/hanoi3+copy.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I just had to take a shot when I saw them.</td></tr>
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<b><span style="color: blue; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">R: Recommended site, event or experience.</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">Traveling through <a href="https://www.facebook.com/rotaract.manila">Rotaract</a>, a service organization for students and young professionals. My most memorable trips were those I made as part of a goodwill visit or cultural exchange with Rotaractors from different countries. It allowed me to "do what the locals do" and visit places that ordinary travelers probably wouldn't get to explore.</span></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7ExwxolIFN4/T0PGTQh5lKI/AAAAAAAAArw/MNGNXK_jrAw/s1600/singapore.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="219" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7ExwxolIFN4/T0PGTQh5lKI/AAAAAAAAArw/MNGNXK_jrAw/s320/singapore.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Representing Philippine Rotaractors in Singapore</td></tr>
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<b><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"><span style="color: blue;">S: Splurge. Something you have no problem forking over money for while
traveling.</span></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">Food. Glorious Food.</span></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"><span style="color: blue;">T: Touristy thing you’ve done.</span></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">A lot! From obligatory photos in front of famous landmarks to silly photos with celebrity wax figures. Yes, you read the last part right. Here's a proof:</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iT-bAch9PIw/T0KgtUwZJKI/AAAAAAAAArQ/imgMpk1DsMI/s1600/yao+ming+wax+museum.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iT-bAch9PIw/T0KgtUwZJKI/AAAAAAAAArQ/imgMpk1DsMI/s320/yao+ming+wax+museum.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One-on-one with Yao Ming at The Wax Museum.</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"><span style="color: blue;"><b>U: Unforgettable Travel Memory.</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">Shoot me, I'm a Trekkie. My most unforgettable travel memory was going to the Star Trek Adventure, one of the attractions then at Universal Studios. Too bad I wasn't called to join the "cast" that would be part of the souvenir video. My brother, however, played an ensign and donned a Star Trek uniform. I was secretly jealous of him for sometime.</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: blue; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;"><b>V: Visa. </b></span></span><b style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"><span style="color: blue;">How many and for where?</span></span></b></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">I think my current passport only has one and it's from Taiwan. <i>(Hey, that rhymes!) </i> The other passport with many stamps and visas is long gone. </span></span></div>
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W: Wine. Best glass of wine while traveling and where?</span></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">You would have probably figured out by now that I don't drink alcohol that much. A complimentary glass of wine that I had with my friends while on a sunset cruise is the only one I recall right now so that's probably the best. Fingers crossed, I'll head to Napa Valley soon and try those wines that my travel buddies are raving about.</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"><span style="color: blue;">X: </span></span></b><b style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"><span style="color: blue;">eXcellent view and from where?</span></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">Any view from the top of a mountain or from a train. But I must say that my most recent, jaw-dropping view happened in the Philippines. I thought New Zealand was the only Middle-Earth worthy location but my road trip from Bukidnon to Lanao del Sur in Mindanao proved otherwise. The mountains and grassy terrain were just spectacular that you have to see it for yourselves. </span></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"><span style="color: blue;">Y: Years spent traveling.</span></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">I've been traveling since I was a toddler. So that's like 16 years? Wait, who am I kidding?! There's no way am I revealing my age!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"><b><span style="color: blue;">Z: Zealous sports fans and where?</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">There may be many zealous sports fans around the globe <i>especially in countries where there are rabid football fans</i> but Metro Manila during a Manny Pacquiao title fight is something else: No traffic. No crime. Enough said. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">Now that you know my ABCs, next I want you to find out the travel alphabet of:</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;"><br /></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">Paul of <a href="http://walkflypinoy.com/" target="_blank">WalkFlyPinoy</a> and Lili of<a href="http://marilil.wordpress.com/" target="_blank"> Lifeisacelebration</a>. Both have traveled a lot and I'm sure they have a wealth of travel memories to share!</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"><i>What about you, what are some of your memorable travel adventures? Pick a letter in the alphabet and share! </i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;"><br /></span></span></div>Rainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08420708024847226996noreply@blogger.com5Baguio City, Philippines16.4023332 120.596007116.3414037 120.5170431 16.4632627 120.6749711tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7436402682566663162.post-44657475356285716902012-03-22T09:00:00.000+08:002012-03-22T20:48:38.186+08:00Why You Should Head to Samal Island Now<i>Like it? Share it on Facebook or Twitter!</i><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bring out your sun block and sun glasses and relax at Samal. </td></tr>
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<i>La dolce far niente</i> <i> </i>is an Italian phrase that encapsulates what I like about spending time on a beach: The happiness of doing nothing but enjoying the beauty around you. For me, seeing an endless horizon of blue while lying on soft, white sand is bliss. Fortunately, the beaches of Samal Island in Davao Oriental still offer that simple pleasure.</div>
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But maybe not for long.</div>
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This March, the local government, together with the Department of Tourism and the Samal Island Tourism Council, launched the Visit Samal campaign. To encourage travelers to make the "Island Garden City" their summer destination, the months of April, May, June and July have been designated as Visit Samal months. Various activities highlighting Samal's attractions and local festivities are in store for visitors. The campaign will kick-off on April 21 and will run until July 15. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GfXKCrwX0_s/T2jlTWI_bQI/AAAAAAAAAxg/aOuTa7OHj0c/s1600/samal+tourism+map.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GfXKCrwX0_s/T2jlTWI_bQI/AAAAAAAAAxg/aOuTa7OHj0c/s320/samal+tourism+map.jpg" width="288" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This tourism highway map will give you an idea of <br />
the location of resorts and other attractions at Samal. <br />
A larger image can be found <a href="http://www.samalcity.gov.ph/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=300&Itemid=64">here</a>.</td></tr>
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So if you're like me and you want to enjoy uninterrupted time on a beach, make your way to Samal soon. Samal has more than 70 resorts: Some of those resorts cater to the masses, some have facilities for those who seek adventure while some offer luxury and seclusion for those willing to spend a little more.<br />
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Now if you want more than an opportunity for blissful oblivion, then go to Samal during the later months. The white sandy beaches isn't Samal's only attraction. You can also explore:<br />
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<li>Hagimit Falls- see its beautiful cascades then take a refreshing dip in its waters</li>
<li>Montfort Bat Sanctuary - home of the largest colony of fruit bats in the world </li>
<li>Mount Puting Bato - hike to this mountain and enjoy a view of Davao, Mount Apo and the Davao Gulf </li>
<li>Talicud Island - famous for its dive spots</li>
<li>Vanishing Island - a beautiful sand bar that 'disappears' during high tide .</li>
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Samal is accessible through Davao City. From Davao City, you can take the Island City Express bus, ride the public ferry at Sasa Port, head to Sta. Ana Wharf for a boat ride to Talicud Island or Kaputian, or charter a motorboat from the private wharf of select resorts to reach Samal Island.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QzwMxIr5pm4/T2jds8kuI7I/AAAAAAAAAxY/7_2XdCSG6pE/s1600/visit+samal+island+2012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QzwMxIr5pm4/T2jds8kuI7I/AAAAAAAAAxY/7_2XdCSG6pE/s200/visit+samal+island+2012.jpg" width="175" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Visit Samal logo. <br />
Check this <a href="http://www.visitsamalisland.com/">website</a> for updates on events and tour packages.</td></tr>
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<i>Anyway, what beach or island in the Philippines did you enjoy visiting the most? Will you be heading to Samal soon? </i><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Note: Photos in the collage include images from Visit Samal's Facebook page.</i></span><br />
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You might also be interested in:<br />
<a href="http://raintravels.blogspot.com/2011/02/day-tour-of-davao.html">Davao City</a><br />
<a href="http://raintravels.blogspot.com/2011/04/travel-photo-katibawasan-falls-camiguin.html">Camiguin</a><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><br /></i></span></div>Rainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08420708024847226996noreply@blogger.com4Samal Island, Island Garden City of Samal, Philippines7.103312 125.71884636.977258 125.5609178 7.229366 125.87677479999999tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7436402682566663162.post-67446304719463014892012-03-19T20:09:00.001+08:002012-03-19T20:09:20.094+08:00Travel With Kids: 7 Indoor Attractions in Southeast Asia<i>Like it? Share it on Facebook or Twitter!</i><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">These attractions make traveling with kids much more fun.</td></tr>
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<i>First, a disclaimer: I don't have a child of my own and I have not adopted some adorable orphan. I'm just one of those reliable adults who can tolerate traveling with kids. (Yes, we exist and we're a rare specie). And by kids I don't mean whining babies or tots 3 years old and below. Now if you're a seasoned parent traveling with kids, your recommendations are welcome at the comments section. :) </i></div>
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Let the truth be told: Southeast Asia is a great place to explore with children. Yes, there's heavy traffic, weird toilets and the crazy language barrier. Yet this region also boasts of fantastic scenery, a bounty of fresh food and delicious treats, as well as some of the friendliest and most generous people on this planet. If you have kids who love adventure, they'll love the beaches, rivers, hills and mountains of this region. Here, they can feed adorable monkeys that are not in cages (Malaysia), see gentle whale sharks in the sea (Philippines), swim with sea turtles on the beach (Indonesia) and even ride on big elephants that are not in zoos (Thailand). But if you're still hesitant to let them try outdoor activities in a foreign country, then consider bringing them to these indoor city attractions: </div>
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HONG KONG:<br />
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<b>The Peak</b><br />
Let the journey begin by taking the kids to the Peak Tram Historical Gallery so that they can learn a bit about the tram's history. Then, take the tram ride to the Peak Tower and let your kids experience how things look like when Spiderman scales on walls. Once you arrive at the tower, you can do the following with your kids: Enjoy a panoramic view of Hong Kong from The Sky Terrace 428, goof around with celebrities (and introduce them to Bruce Lee, WHAAAA!) at Madame Tussauds Wax Museum, enjoy a hearty meal at any of The Peak's restaurants, shop at The Peak Market for souvenirs and explore any of the trails at the Nature Walk.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UqwhbI4rnd0/T2SvgQ4FKNI/AAAAAAAAAwg/-YBmTtdk8z4/s1600/wax+museum+hong+kong.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="217" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UqwhbI4rnd0/T2SvgQ4FKNI/AAAAAAAAAwg/-YBmTtdk8z4/s400/wax+museum+hong+kong.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Take crazy photos with these wax figures and more at Madame Tussauds.</td></tr>
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<i>Operating Hours:</i> The Peak Tram and Peak Gallery are open from 7:00 a.m. to 12 midnight daily. The Peak Tower and The Sky Terrace are open from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m . (Monday to Friday) and from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. (Saturday, Sunday and Public holidays). Madame Tussauds is open from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. </div>
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<i>Getting there: </i>Take the Peak Tram Shuttle Bus No. 15C at the Central Bus Terminus (Near Star Ferry Pier 8) to reach the Garden Road Peak Tram Lower Terminus. If you're taking the MTR, get off at the Central Station, make your way to the J2 exit and walk up to the ground level. Turn right, passing through Chater Garden then cross Queen's Road Central to reach the Garden Road Peak Tram. </div>
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<i>Tip: </i>Make sure to check for promos or fun deals at <a href="http://www.thepeak.com.hk/en/1_1.asp">The Peak 's</a> or <a href="http://www.madametussauds.com/HongKong/en/Default.aspx">Madame Tussauds</a> website to save on costs. </div>
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<b>Hong Kong Disneyland</b><br />
Yes, it's smaller and has less attractions than Tokyo Disneyland. But what it lacks in size, it makes up for in activities. Start by taking the MTR Disneyland Resort line and let the kids enjoy the sights while inside a Mickey mouse-inspired passenger car. Then, let the young ones see their favorite Disney princesses and other characters come to life while strolling around the theme park, exploring the castle, dining at a cafe, or even while swimming in Disney's hotel pool. Afterwards, try the different attractions such as the Space Mountain, Autopia, Tarzan's Tree House and PhilHar's Magic, a fun 3D show. Later, see Disney's stars perform at The Golden Mickeys and at the Festival of the Lion King. Try learning animation with your kids, too, at the Art of Animation. Then, let the kids take photos and dance with adorable Disney movie characters at the Flights of Fantasy Parade. Cap the day by watching the amazing fireworks display at Main Street. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fcPPFq1JESY/T2SxJbQzZEI/AAAAAAAAAwo/IxCxYGmy_UU/s1600/disney+hk.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fcPPFq1JESY/T2SxJbQzZEI/AAAAAAAAAwo/IxCxYGmy_UU/s400/disney+hk.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Let the kids meet their favorite Disney characters at Hong Kong Disneyland.</td></tr>
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<i>Operating Hours: </i>10 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. daily.<br />
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<i>Getting there: </i>Take the <a href="http://www.mtr.com.hk/jplanner/flash_eng/index.php?sid=&eid=55&x=12&y=7">MTR</a> and alight at Sunny Bay Station. From Sunny Bay station, proceed to the Disneyland Resort line interchange. Another option is to take Citybus R11, R22, R33 or R42 which operates daily to and from Disneyland.<br />
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<i>Tip: </i>Bring something to keep the kids warm if you're staying until the evening to watch the fireworks as it could get very cold at night. Also, if you're kids are major Disney fans, consider staying overnight at any of the HK Disneyland hotels.<br />
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KUALA LUMPUR:<br />
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<b>Petrosains: The Discovery Centre, Petronas Twin Towers</b><br />
Although Malaysia is better known for its outdoor activities, the Petrosains inside the Petronas Towers is one indoor attraction that does not disappoint. It's a showcase of one of Malaysia's most valued resource - oil. The journey starts with the Dark Ride, an oil drop shaped ride that transports kids and adults through an audio-visual hall featuring Malaysia's natural resources and advancements in technology. Afterwards, visitors can explore on foot the different interactive exhibits on petroleum exploration, geology, earthquakes, molecules, latest inventions and F1 sports. And did I mention there's a talking dinosaur at Petrosains? (It's not Barney!)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-o8O2wmU__6w/T2br9mwCkWI/AAAAAAAAAxA/dQ5v-jrwEW0/s1600/petrosains+petronas.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-o8O2wmU__6w/T2br9mwCkWI/AAAAAAAAAxA/dQ5v-jrwEW0/s320/petrosains+petronas.jpg" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Skybridge isn't the only attraction for kids <br />at the Petronas Twin Towers.</td></tr>
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<i>Operating Hours: </i>The Petrosains is open from Tuesday to Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Last admission is at 4:00 p.m. On weekends and public holidays, its open from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Last admission is at 5:00 p.m. The center is closed every Monday and during Hari Raya Puasa and Hari Raya Haji.<br />
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<i>Tip: </i>If you plan to go up the Petronas Twin Towers Sky Bridge, get tickets for that first at the Concourse Level before buying your tickets for the Petrosains. Entrance to the Petrosains is at the Suria KLCC mall.<br />
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MANILA:<br />
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<b>Museo Pambata</b><br />
Let the kids explore a museum that allows them to play! This children's museum along Roxas Boulevard has interactive, hands-on exhibits that will help the young ones learn about Philippine history and culture, environment, the human body, children's rights, among others. The museum also offers various activities to keep the children occupied from storytelling to cultural presentations.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AJz-WbGdN5E/T2cJNDx35ZI/AAAAAAAAAxI/oaqcYKVuS4k/s1600/museo+pambata+panoramio.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AJz-WbGdN5E/T2cJNDx35ZI/AAAAAAAAAxI/oaqcYKVuS4k/s320/museo+pambata+panoramio.jpg" width="288" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The non-traditional Museo Pambata looks like a house.<br />(Photo from panoramio.com)</td></tr>
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<i>Operating Hours: </i>Museo Pambata is open Tuesday to Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and is closed during lunch time (12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m.). On Sundays, it's open from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. The museum is closed to the public every Monday and during select public holidays.</div>
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<i>Getting there: </i>The museum is located at the corner of South Drive and Roxas Boulevard. One can take the LRT or jeepney (A.Mabini route), alight at U.N. Avenue, then walk towards Roxas Boulevard. It's right beside the US Embassy of Manila. </div>
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<i>Tip: </i> It's usually best to visit Museo Pambata on weekends as the museum's outdoor plays, art workshops and shows are typically held on Saturdays and Sundays. </div>
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SINGAPORE:</div>
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<b>Sentosa Island</b></div>
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This island resort calls itself Asia's playground as it offers both indoor and outdoor attractions that appeal to the young and young at heart Personally, I think the indoor attractions take front and center stage in Sentosa (the beaches are ho-hum in my standards). You can let kids travel back in time at Images of Singapore, get inside a Merlion's head at The Merlion, enjoy a spectacular view of Singapore at the Tiger Sky Tower or experience the thrilling attractions inside Universal Studios.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9OBWfmRajw0/T2S4WNyfSJI/AAAAAAAAAww/T6v7pfEgk7Y/s1600/sentosa+singapore.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="256" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9OBWfmRajw0/T2S4WNyfSJI/AAAAAAAAAww/T6v7pfEgk7Y/s320/sentosa+singapore.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sentosa is for kids and the young at heart.</td></tr>
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<i>Operating Hours: </i> Sentosa's ticketing booths operate from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. daily. However, the attractions at Sentosa have different operating hours, check their website for <a href="http://www.sentosa.com.sg/en/">details</a>.<br />
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<i>Getting there: </i>There are many ways to get to Sentosa. The most fun and the quickest way is via a cable car ride. Another option is to take the MRT, alight at the HarbourFront Station then ride the Sentosa Express.<br />
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<i>Tip: </i> You can't explore all the attractions in one day! Do your homework and prioritize what you want to see with your kids so that they won't get tired and frustrated. Sentosa also offers a whole day pass and a half-day pass (2:30 to 7:00 p.m.) which can help you narrow down the attractions you want to see. </div>
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<i>Personal advocacy: </i>If you believe that <a href="http://www.saddestdolphins.com/thecampaign/thecampaign.html">Dolphins should be in the ocean,</a> please do not patronize the Underwater World at Siloso Point and the Marine Life Park at Resorts World Sentosa.<br />
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TAIPEI, TAIWAN:<br />
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<b>The Maokong Gondola</b></div>
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Here's where your kids can feel like Kung Fu Panda flying through the air. This is a cable car ride to the scenic mountains of the Maokong area in Taipei. You can choose to ride a regular cabin or the Eyes of the Maokong Gondola, a cable car with a glass bottom. At the end of the ride, you can treat your kids to some shaved ice, take a short stroll or let them witness the art of tea-making in any of the tea houses near the area (Perfect for young girls!). </div>
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Below's a short clip of my Maokong Gondola ride last year. To find out more about the Maokong Gondola and how to get there, check my post <a href="http://raintravels.blogspot.com/2011/09/high-on-maokong-gondola.html">here.</a> </div>
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<i>Tip: </i>It's definitely not for those afraid of heights as the Gondola ride can be quite shaky. If your kids start panicking, you can alight at the Taipei Zoo South Station. There are bus rides back to Taipei from that station. Also, don't go to the Maokong Gondola on weekends as there's bound to be a long queue. <b><br /></b></div>
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<b>The National Palace Museum</b><br />
Seeing ancient Chinese artifacts and artworks may not appeal to all kids but the <a href="http://raintravels.blogspot.com/2011/09/wonders-of-national-palace-museum.html">National Palace Museum</a> (NPM) has gone to special lengths to make its younger visitors more interested in history and the arts. If you have kids age 7 to 12 years old, make sure to accompany them to NPM's Children's Gallery for an interactive and fun learning experience that will help them appreciate the treasures housed at the museum. The staff also provides a Family Guide (such as "Treasure Hunting at the National Palace Museum") which can help you in exploring NPM's collections with your kids. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zuCex6abjt0/TmUcEO4E0tI/AAAAAAAAARU/bXefBKcIhjI/s1600/tai45.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zuCex6abjt0/TmUcEO4E0tI/AAAAAAAAARU/bXefBKcIhjI/s400/tai45.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Go treasure-hunting at the National Palace Museum in Taipei.</td></tr>
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<i>Operating Hours: </i>The National Palace Museum is open daily from 8:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Its operating hours are extended every Saturday from 6:30 p.m. to 9: 30 p.m. The Children's Gallery is closed every Wednesday after 1:00 p.m.<br />
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<i>Getting there: </i>Take the MRT Wenhu Line and alight at Dahzi station. Outside the station, take bus B13 (Brown 13) to the National Palace Museum and alight before the Front Facade Plaza of the museum. You can also take the MRT Danshui line to Shilin Station then take bus R30 (Red 30) to get to NPM.</div>
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<i>Tip: </i>There's a scheduled time of entry to the Children's Gallery. Each session is 50 minutes long so make sure to check this site for the <a href="http://www.npm.gov.tw/children/en/center_visit.html">schedule</a> before visiting. Also, admission is FREE during extended evening hours.<br />
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<i>So, which of these indoor attractions would you most likely visit with kids? Which ones would you visit even without kids? Share your thoughts below! </i><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">P.S. I made a conscious effort not to include in this list any zoos, theme parks with casinos or indoor facilities with endangered marine animals</span>. </div>
<br />Rainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08420708024847226996noreply@blogger.com1The Peak, Hong Kong22.2632478 114.158798322.2338578 114.1193163 22.292637799999998 114.19828030000001tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7436402682566663162.post-79249480311687250412012-03-12T11:42:00.002+08:002012-03-13T21:42:10.681+08:00Ilocos Virgins: A 3-Day Travel Itinerary<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
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Recently, I have been getting a lot of inquiries about traveling to Ilocos. I don't know if this has something to do with the launch of the <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rfxyhP7GwU0">Paoay Kumakaway</a> tourism ad or that music video for a telenovela which features Ilocos region's scenery. Perhaps, it's simply because it's summer in the Philippines.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VMhmFOoQfmw/T15SoNnaHII/AAAAAAAAAwI/f23KtBylXAo/s1600/ilocos+norte.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VMhmFOoQfmw/T15SoNnaHII/AAAAAAAAAwI/f23KtBylXAo/s400/ilocos+norte.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Laoag City is the gateway to Ilocos Norte.</td></tr>
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<a name='more'></a>The region of Ilocos is located at the northwest of the island of Luzon and is composed of four provinces: Ilocos Sur, Ilocos Norte, La Union and Pangasinan. Usually, when people say they will be heading to Ilocos, they mean visiting the first two. Though near each other, the topography, culture and political history of both provinces are very different, making them more interesting to explore. Specifically, Ilocos Norte is well-known among locals for its churches and natural wonders while Ilocos Sur is popular for its food and the country's only UNESCO heritage city - Vigan.<br />
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Anyway, here is the 3-day itinerary (including some notes) I prepared for my travel buddies during our Ilocos Sur and Ilocos Norte trip last year. As it was their first trip to both provinces, I called them "Ilocos Virgins". To ensure that we get to explore a lot of places, we rented a van (arranged through the hotel). It turned out to be great idea as commuting was difficult due to the scorching summer sun. In fact, at 5:30 a.m., the sun was already as high as the 9:00 a.m. sun in Manila! <br />
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<b>Day 1: Ilocos Norte Center</b><br />
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12:15 to 12:30 p.m. Arrival at Laoag International Airport<br />
12:30 to 2:00 p.m. Travel from Airport to hotel<br />
(<a href="http://www.gertesresort.com/hotelresort.html">Gertes Hotel and Resort</a>)<br />
Check-in<br />
Late lunch<br />
2:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. <em>Explore Laoag, Batac and Paoay:</em> <br />
Provincial Capitol<br />
Museo Ilocos Norte<br />
St. Williams Cathedral Bell Tower<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Malaca<span style="text-indent: -24px;">ñ</span></span>ang Ti Amianan<br />
(Malacanang of the North)<br />
Batac Riverside Empanadahan<br />
(Eat at Glory's Empanada)<br />
Marcos Mansion and Museum <br />
Paoay Sand Dunes<br />
Paoay Church<br />
Fort Ilocandia (Catch the sunset)<br />
6:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Return to hotel<br />
7:00 p.m. onwards Dinner at Saramsam Cafe<br />
Free time/Rest<br />
Notice that our first day was packed? That's because the Ilocos Virgins wanted to see a lot of things on their first visit. The attractions listed above can be explored quickly or at a leisurely pace. In our case we explored some of the places quickly (e.g. Provincial Capitol, Bell Tower and Paoay Sand Dunes) so that we can visit other attractions before they close for the day. The Museo Ilocos Norte and Marcos Museum were initially not part of our itinerary but the hotel's management recommended it.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nSXv71xXWnc/T18_tOXx3_I/AAAAAAAAAwY/H7bNNRnAy8M/s1600/bagnet+from+ilocos.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="195" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nSXv71xXWnc/T18_tOXx3_I/AAAAAAAAAwY/H7bNNRnAy8M/s320/bagnet+from+ilocos.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Bagnet or deep fried pork belly with blistered skin is a must-try Ilocano dish. </td></tr>
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<b>Day 2: Outside Ilocos Norte's Capital </b><br />
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8:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. Breakfast at the hotel<br />
9:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Road trip to La Paz, Pasuquin and Burgos <br />
La Paz Sand Dunes<br />
Bacarra Tower<br />
Pasuquin Salt Harvesting<br />
Cape Bojeador Lighthouse<br />
Bangui Bay (to see the windmills up-close)<br />
12:30 p.m.-1:30 p.m. Lunch at a roadside eatery<br />
1:30 p.m.-5:00 p.m. Pagudpod<br />
5:00 p.m.-7:30 p.m. Return trip to Laoag<br />
Brief stop at the Bangui Windmill View Deck <br />
7:30 p.m. onwards Dinner at Fort Ilocandia<br />
Free time/Rest<br />
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We planned to do sand-boarding and four-wheel driving at La Paz but the rental facility was closed that day (to our dismay). As for our dinner, we returned to Fort Ilocandia as most dining establishments in Ilocos Norte close early.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OrNVtkZHezo/T18z3IXtrTI/AAAAAAAAAwQ/nYfcaMbRVtA/s1600/VIGAN.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OrNVtkZHezo/T18z3IXtrTI/AAAAAAAAAwQ/nYfcaMbRVtA/s400/VIGAN.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vigan, the capital of Ilocos Sur, is renowned for its old world charm. </td></tr>
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<b>Day 3: Ilocos Sur</b><br />
8:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m Breakfast at the hotel<br />
9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Road trip to Vigan, Ilocos Sur<br />
11:00 a.m to 6:00 p.m. Singson's Baluarte<br />
Lunch at Cafe Uno<br />
Crisologo Museum<br />
(no entrance fee, just make a donation)<br />
St. Paul's Metropolitan Cathedral<br />
(Vigan Cathedral)<br />
Museo San Pablo<br />
(no entrance fee, just make a donation)<br />
Burgos Museum<br />
Syquia Mansion (with entrance fee)<br />
Mestizo District/Calle Crisologo<br />
Vigan Empanadaaan<br />
6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Return trip to Laoag<br />
8:00 p.m. Dinner at hotel<br />
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Initially, we wanted to see the Currimao Rock Formation on our third day. However, we decided to slow down a bit so we could enjoy the sights and sounds of Vigan. We also needed time to shop for souvenirs and popular food items as our return flight was scheduled the following morning.<br />
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For this trip, our initial budget was at PhP 5,000 or almost $120 per head (excluding personal shopping expenses and air fare) for 5 travelers. However, one of our travel buddies didn't make it so we had to shoulder the additional cost and ended up adding PhP 1,000 each. A large part of our budget went to transportation, hotel and our pricey dinner at Fort Ilocandia (We ordered too much and didn't realize that the dishes were more expensive). Our biggest savings was our trip to Pagudpod as we didn't rent a cottage or stayed at a resort. Our driver suggested that we could just park our van near the beach and just pay for the use of a shower room. (Note: The shower room isn't anything fancy. Similar to those in remote provinces, it's a small unpainted room without bathroom tiles and the shower is basically cold water coming from a hose. But for five pesos, who were we to complain?)<br />
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Now if you want more details of our Ilocos adventure, check these posts or see the photos on my <a href="http://www.facebook.com/raintravels.blog">Facebook page</a>:<br />
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<a href="http://raintravels.blogspot.com/2011/05/northern-exposure-enchanted-in-vigan.html">Vigan, Ilocos Sur</a><br />
<a href="http://raintravels.blogspot.com/2011/05/not-borobudur-its-paoay.html">Paoay Church</a><br />
<a href="http://raintravels.blogspot.com/2011/06/giants-of-bangui.html">Bangui Windmills</a><br />
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<br /></div>Rainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08420708024847226996noreply@blogger.com4Laoag City, Philippines18.1960128 120.592667918.075335799999998 120.4347394 18.3166898 120.75059639999999tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7436402682566663162.post-73277326956932872412012-03-10T19:38:00.003+08:002012-03-10T21:44:28.429+08:00A Taste of Pampanga in the City: Villa Cafe<i>Like it? Share it on Facebook or Twitter!</i><br />
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Pampanga, which is located 75.8 kilometers away from Manila, is considered as the Gourmet Province of the Philippines. With its exquisite, imaginative and exotic dishes as well as fancy confections, there is no doubt that the Kapampangan cuisine stands out from other local dishes in the country. The locals' flair for cooking and their passion for eating heartily is also well-known that is why many head to Pampanga for a gourmet getaway with family or friends. As for those who do not want to go out-of-town for a taste of Pampanga's rich cuisine, they can always go to Villa Cafe at Makati City.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-c3POD5bRSKA/T1tPczFmMfI/AAAAAAAAAwA/mbxz8kT9c0I/s1600/villa.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-c3POD5bRSKA/T1tPczFmMfI/AAAAAAAAAwA/mbxz8kT9c0I/s320/villa.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> <i>Manyaman keni.</i> (Food is delicious here.) </td></tr>
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Villa Cafe is a collaboration of celebrated chefs Sau del Rosario and Jam Melchor. Both chefs grew in Angeles, Pampanga. Thus, the restaurant's menu features food based on heirloom recipes from their families. Just like their restaurant's classy yet laid-back style, Villa offers Kapampangan food with a refreshing twist. The result is a delectable and sumptous array of dishes that will satisfy every palette. Some of their offerings are:<br />
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<b>Kapampangan Pizza: </b> An appetizer that's also perfect as a snack, this thin-crust pizza boasts of a wealth of toppings such as ebun buru (salted egg), smoked fish flakes, organic vegetables, Pampanga longganisa and goat cheese. It may seem overwhelming but the crisp crust, flavorful toppings and fresh aroma will make you forget about pepperoni and mozzarella. Best of all, it's not heavy on the stomach.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lTDmVTcCIyQ/T1gzh1KhguI/AAAAAAAAAvQ/v0amQhbJ0xk/s1600/villa+cafe+8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lTDmVTcCIyQ/T1gzh1KhguI/AAAAAAAAAvQ/v0amQhbJ0xk/s320/villa+cafe+8.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>Gule Marangle: </b>Pampanga's version of <i>Pinakbet</i>, this vegetable stew teases the palette with its crunchy pork cracklings, succulent shrimps, tender okra and eggplant and sweet bitter gourd. Although it has <i>bagoong </i>(shrimp paste), the pungent smell characteristic of <i>Pinakbet</i> is surprisingly absent.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-U0buM0TILpM/T1gy9oqnR-I/AAAAAAAAAvI/IapVQjIj8Fk/s1600/villa+cafe+7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-U0buM0TILpM/T1gy9oqnR-I/AAAAAAAAAvI/IapVQjIj8Fk/s320/villa+cafe+7.jpg" width="320" /></a> </div>
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<b>Tender US Lengua: </b> The creamy mushroom sauce and chewy corn kernels complements the soft ox tongue. It was surprisingly delicious.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uTvMPinfh3Q/T1gydUYia-I/AAAAAAAAAvA/nkJEVc_lvmo/s1600/villa+cafe+6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uTvMPinfh3Q/T1gydUYia-I/AAAAAAAAAvA/nkJEVc_lvmo/s320/villa+cafe+6.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>Relyenung Bangus: </b>Villa's stuffed milk fish with creamy relleno jus is an exceptional way of presenting a classic fish dish. It's big on flavor, smoky and satisfying.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AxWdKJ4dYI0/T1jzcMPgnsI/AAAAAAAAAvw/0hXTnlD_1dU/s1600/Rellenong+Bangus.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="255" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AxWdKJ4dYI0/T1jzcMPgnsI/AAAAAAAAAvw/0hXTnlD_1dU/s320/Rellenong+Bangus.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>Short Beef Ribs Kaldereta*: </b> This tomato-based meat stew has fork-tender ribs and a kaldereta sauce that's meaty and full of flavor. The mashed potato may seem out of place but its perfect for scraping the rich sauce off the plate. <br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vzeoWGERIVI/T1jzdnpUocI/AAAAAAAAAv4/qCp5P4kE7Vo/s1600/Beef+Short+Rib+Caldereta.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vzeoWGERIVI/T1jzdnpUocI/AAAAAAAAAv4/qCp5P4kE7Vo/s320/Beef+Short+Rib+Caldereta.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b style="text-align: center;">Pastel de Lengua: </b><span style="text-align: center;">This is pastel de lengua sans the pastry crust. The fresh champignons, carrots and olives add refinement and texture to this traditional Kapampangan dish of boiled ox tongue. </span><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ma2ec1FqaRg/T1g1dTtKu3I/AAAAAAAAAvo/-yUbfeQH9E4/s1600/villa+cafe+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ma2ec1FqaRg/T1g1dTtKu3I/AAAAAAAAAvo/-yUbfeQH9E4/s320/villa+cafe+5.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>Boneless Crispy Pata: </b>The star of the menu, it's a combination of two popular feast dishes: Crispy Pata (deep-fried pork knuckles) and Kare-Kare (peanut-based stew). The mouth-watering pork knuckles has crackling skin and tender meat while the kare-kare is light and has that perfect balance of sweet and savory. It comes with a small bowl of Kare-Kare sauce that can be enjoyed even without adding <i>bagoong.</i><br />
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Aside from these dishes, the exotic Fried Kamaru (crickets) and Bulanglang are also worth a try. Villa's menu is also quite helpful for first-time diners as there are notes (in red script, like margin notes) on what dishes one should try or what drink goes well with a particular item on the menu. The restaurant staff is friendly and knowledgeable, too, making dining more pleasurable. </div>
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Dining at Villa is like eating out of town sans the long drive. Individuals won't be put to shame when they recommend this to their friends with epicurean tastes or visitors seeking great local food to enjoy. </div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;"><span style="text-align: justify;"><i>Villa Cafe is located at Glory Building, Yakal Street, San Antonio Village, Makati City. It's open from Monday to Sunday, from 7:00 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.Villa's o</i></span><i style="text-align: justify;">n the same building as LA Car Accessories and Gravity Workz. It's just across Avida West Tower 2 Condominium. Parking is limited but staff can assist guests in looking for parking space if needed. </i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;"><i style="text-align: justify;">Recommended for: groups, families (with or without children) and foreign guests. </i><i style="text-align: justify;"> The restaurant accepts walk-ins though I'd recommend that one makes a reservation at 02-4782659 </i><i style="text-align: justify;">if dining with a group. </i><i style="text-align: justify;">Take note that the restaurant has an open kitchen concept so the food's odor may stick to your clothes. </i></span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">* </span></span><span style="font-size: x-small; text-align: justify;">- The Short Ribs was a substitute for the Braised Lamb Shanks in Kaldereta Sauce which was not available during my recent visit.</span></span></i></div>
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<br /></div>Rainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08420708024847226996noreply@blogger.com7Yakal, Makati City, Philippines14.560718534024582 121.0093832015991214.559758034024583 121.00814920159912 14.561679034024582 121.01061720159912tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7436402682566663162.post-86814702751444109772012-03-02T22:25:00.000+08:002012-03-02T22:25:40.457+08:00Row, Row Your Boat to the Sea-Ex 2012<i>Like it? Share it on Facebook or Twitter!</i><br />
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<i>"Sea-Ex?You're going to a Sex Expo?", </i>asked a friend when I told him where I'll be heading this Friday.</div>
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I'm not surprised. Even I was clueless what it was all about until Pamela Cortez, editor of The Navigator, invited me to this event. Sea-Ex stands for Sea Expo and in simple terms, is an event that showcases the nautical lifestyle. Since 2009, it has gathered boating, marine and watersports enterprises in one exposition that has pleased those who love to explore the seas. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Perfect for this summer: A Nautical Lifestyle Expo</td></tr>
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So what can one expect at Sea-Ex? Aside from different exhibitors, there are various festive activities such as sunset cruises, live band performances, DJs, mini-regatta and cocktails. More importantly, the organizers of Sea-Ex recognize the importance of marine conservation so there are features on caring for the marine environment on The Navigator (Sea-Ex's official magazine, look for my article!) and a booth on Save The Philippine Marine Wildlife courtesy of Marine Wildlife Watch Philippines, Physalus, Dolphins Love Freedom and <a href="http://savephilippineseas.com/">Save the Philippine Seas</a>.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A booth on life saving equipment</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of the many boats on display, a Chapparal Sunesta 284</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Watch videos featuring amazing marine wildlife and learn about <br />marine conservation at this booth.</td></tr>
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The Sea-Ex is from March 2 to 4, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. at One Esplanade, Pasay City (near SM Mall of Asia). For the complete schedule of activities and ticket costs, go to <a href="http://seaex.ph/">http://seaex.ph/</a>. For more photos, check my <a href="https://www.facebook.com/raintravels.blog?ref=tn_tnmn">Facebook page</a>. And if you're visiting the expo for the first time, take note: As much as it's fun to come in the morning because there are only a few visitors and you could take all the photos you want, the more exciting activities are scheduled late in the afternoon! You'll also get to enjoy the spectacular view of the Manila Bay sunset. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hobie cat</td></tr>
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<i>Have you been to the Sea-Ex? Planning to go there? Tell us about it!</i></div>
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<br /></div>Rainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08420708024847226996noreply@blogger.com2One Esplanade, Seaside Blvd, Pasay, Philippines14.542192263811238 120.9821319580078114.540270763811238 120.97966445800782 14.544113763811238 120.98459945800781tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7436402682566663162.post-55329057473499857332012-03-01T09:00:00.000+08:002012-03-01T09:00:02.576+08:00Hello, Officers! The PNP Museum<i>Like it? Share it on Facebook or Twitter!</i><br />
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Mall? Check. Amusement Park? Check. Playground? Check. Swimming Pool? Check. Beach? Check. </div>
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If you're running out of places to explore with kids and the young at heart, then head to Camp Crame in Quezon City. At the heart of Camp Crame is the Philippine National Police (PNP) Museum which showcases the history and achievements of our country's law enforcers. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-j-bBGF-kBgc/T05wsp60KCI/AAAAAAAAAtI/wlx0D3jzMyI/s1600/PNP1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-j-bBGF-kBgc/T05wsp60KCI/AAAAAAAAAtI/wlx0D3jzMyI/s320/PNP1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bold and blue: The Philippine National Police National Headquarters.</td></tr>
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<span style="text-align: justify;">The PNP Museum is a two-story edifice where visitors can learn about the past and present of the people responsible for enforcing the law and maintaining peace and order. On display are interesting artifacts and memorabilia from the time the PNP was known as the Philippine Constabulary until it became a national police force. </span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u2Nv9nn4orQ/T050mGrKm5I/AAAAAAAAAtw/zo8eiTm-y1M/s1600/PNP+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u2Nv9nn4orQ/T050mGrKm5I/AAAAAAAAAtw/zo8eiTm-y1M/s320/PNP+2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Welcome to the PNP Museum! Looks like a house, doesn't it?</td></tr>
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There is also a gallery on the second floor featuring police officers who received the <i>Medalya ng Kagitingan</i> or Medal of Valor, the highest honor that can be conferred by a nation to its law enforcers. A velvet rope separates the gallery from the rest of the items on exhibit at that floor to emphasize its importance. Interestingly, some of those featured in the gallery are still alive today.<br />
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<tr><td><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PuVeyufuP-8/T05xI7XeL2I/AAAAAAAAAtg/_pj3c6NV2qg/s1600/PNP+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PuVeyufuP-8/T05xI7XeL2I/AAAAAAAAAtg/_pj3c6NV2qg/s320/PNP+3.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">The Medal of Valor (L) and some of its recipients (R)</td></tr>
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Among the museum's collections, the ones that caught my attention were the uniforms used by former Constables. In fact, I noticed most of the museum's visitors that day had their photos taken beside the mannequins. I was also surprised to find photos of some politicians who started in the PNP, one of which is the Department of Justice's favorite Senator (<i>Any guess?)</i>.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fXHlQtpPbWE/T05w2_S1pII/AAAAAAAAAtQ/c0pgM85g200/s1600/PNP+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fXHlQtpPbWE/T05w2_S1pII/AAAAAAAAAtQ/c0pgM85g200/s320/PNP+4.jpg" width="206" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">These old uniforms reflect the place where the Constables served. <br />
Where do you think did the police in loincloth work?</td></tr>
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On the other hand, the kids I saw in the museum liked the decommissioned vehicles such as the tank, helicopter and police jeep. These are located at the grounds across the museum's entrance. I think the museum's staff were well aware of how kids behave around those vehicles (<i>It can get crazy!)</i> because they recommended that it should be the last stop in exploring the museum.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qoKDWKhOt_Q/T05w--cU2lI/AAAAAAAAAtY/ujzKg1zfIY4/s1600/PNP+6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="160" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qoKDWKhOt_Q/T05w--cU2lI/AAAAAAAAAtY/ujzKg1zfIY4/s400/PNP+6.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">For most children, riding on these vehicles is the highlight of their museum visit.</td></tr>
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A short walk away from the museum is the PNP Heritage Park, where the <i>Bantayog ng mga Bayaning Tagapamayapa</i> is located. It honors the police officers who died in the line of duty. Interestingly, it was inaugurated only in 2006, during the 15th anniversary of the PNP.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BQhxYONucns/T05z9eAnjTI/AAAAAAAAAto/TaivOk69bZ8/s1600/PNP+14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BQhxYONucns/T05z9eAnjTI/AAAAAAAAAto/TaivOk69bZ8/s320/PNP+14.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">On these walls are the names of the fallen heroes of the country's police force.</td></tr>
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Now before I wrap up this post, let me share with you what a group of kids I met at the museum's entrance told me when I asked them what police officers do. The kids, in unison, said, <i>Nangkokotong</i> (accepts bribes and grease money). I don't know if the policemen at the Museum heard but if they did, they must have felt a bit ashamed. (<i>I know I was.)</i> I just hope that after those children explored the museum, they realized that there are some good men and women among those called to "serve and protect" citizens. Was that wishful thinking?<br />
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<i>The PNP Museum is open from Monday to Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Admission is free. Guided group tours can also be arranged in advance with the <a href="http://www.pnp.gov.ph/main/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=112&Itemid=109">PNP Police Community Relations grou</a>p. For more photos of the PNP Museum, check my <a href="https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.394898397190745.107863.222829007731019&type=1">Facebook page</a>.</i></div>
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<i>You might also be interested in : <a href="http://raintravels.blogspot.com/2011/01/lost-in-national-museum-of-philippines.html">The National Museum Art Gallery</a> and the <a href="http://raintravels.blogspot.com/2011/08/genius-has-no-country-at-yuchengco.html">Yuchengco Museum</a> .</i>Rainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08420708024847226996noreply@blogger.com0Camp Crame, Quezon City, Philippines14.6085387 121.052859614.5931732 121.03311860000001 14.6239042 121.0726006tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7436402682566663162.post-89335858418539409862012-02-28T10:22:00.000+08:002012-02-29T00:23:18.126+08:00Sunburned at Barasoain<i>Like it? Share it on Facebook or Twitter!</i><br />
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The sun was high and my patience was wearing thin as our tour bus made its way to Malolos City, Bulacan. The city of Malolos is located 45 kilometers north of Manila and boasts of green fields, heritage houses, and delightful local delicacies such as pastillas de leche (milk candies), suman (glutinous rice stick), and ensaymada (ensaimada). I was, however, frustrated over one thing: Our visit to Barasoain Church.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eCv_BUQeX9g/T0iXlJy6ajI/AAAAAAAAAsg/01jy8qDEnFA/s1600/barasoain+church+tower.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eCv_BUQeX9g/T0iXlJy6ajI/AAAAAAAAAsg/01jy8qDEnFA/s320/barasoain+church+tower.jpg" width="222" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Bell Tower of Barasoain Church. </td></tr>
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Barasoain Church is one of the national landmarks that I wanted to see since I was young. Its image was once prominently featured on the Philippine ten peso bill (Now it's on the two hundred peso bill). In addition, the church was the venue of significant events in the history of the Philippines. It was where the first Constitutional Convention of our country was held which led to the drafting and ratification of our constitution. It was also the seat of the First Philippine Republic which was established in 1899, making it the third republic established in Asia. Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo also had his inauguration as President at the Barasoain Church.</div>
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So you can imagine my dismay when our tour guide sheepishly said that we may not be able to go inside Barasoain Church. <i> Okay, so what am I supposed to do there? Take photos outside and leave? </i>The disappointment increased as soon as we arrived at the church. I immediately noticed some tour buses already parked outside, with one completely blocking the view of Emilio Aguinaldo's monument. There was also an on-going construction at the Church. Thus, taking a photo of the whole facade was not possible. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RQwFCK6l1A0/T0iXONaKyiI/AAAAAAAAAsY/g0vH5T1VYPo/s1600/barasoain+church+malolos.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RQwFCK6l1A0/T0iXONaKyiI/AAAAAAAAAsY/g0vH5T1VYPo/s320/barasoain+church+malolos.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The original structure of the Church of Barasoain was burned in 1884.<br />
The current structure is the result of a reconstruction that started a year after.<br />
(Source: <a href="http://www.nhi.gov.ph/index.php?Itemid=10&id=39&option=com_content&task=view">National Historical Institute</a>)</td></tr>
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I could feel the sweat forming on my brows and the sun burning my skin as soon as I stepped out of the bus. Once outside, our tour guide said we could explore the adjoining convent which has been converted to a museum. The convent's white color and <i>Bahay na Bato </i>design was a contrast to the grey stone facade of the church. Unfortunately, I could barely hear what was being discussed by the guide as we climbed the narrow wooden steps leading to the museum. The other tour groups were quite noisy. It reminded of the reason why I stopped joining guided tours before. </div>
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I did hear that there were 2 museums at Barasoain: One featuring religious artifacts and another showcasing Philippine history. We explored the latter as the other one was closed that day. It was an opportunity to rediscover the historical landmarks of Malolos and the heroes of the Philippine revolution.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vmH0c6y5ZXg/T0uhFhlpLaI/AAAAAAAAAs4/iiz-lSUDYTY/s1600/barasoain+church+museum.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vmH0c6y5ZXg/T0uhFhlpLaI/AAAAAAAAAs4/iiz-lSUDYTY/s320/barasoain+church+museum.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Andres Bonifacio, Jose Rizal and Felipe Calderon: <br />
Men who shaped Philippine History. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-m94P948rESU/T0kkNCwF_TI/AAAAAAAAAso/ofU2MVLB5Ws/s1600/women+of+malolos.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="160" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-m94P948rESU/T0kkNCwF_TI/AAAAAAAAAso/ofU2MVLB5Ws/s400/women+of+malolos.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Women of Malolos (L) and the Men of Freedom (R).<br />
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There was also a simple light and sound presentation at the second floor about the journey to Philippine independence and democracy. The presentation would have had more impact if the heat wasn't too oppressive. With more than 40 people in the room and only one electric fan, it was difficult to pay attention. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6q3rDaSPd7Q/T0t38kuWkeI/AAAAAAAAAsw/9q-0aYNsXc8/s1600/barasoain+church+light+and+sound.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6q3rDaSPd7Q/T0t38kuWkeI/AAAAAAAAAsw/9q-0aYNsXc8/s320/barasoain+church+light+and+sound.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of the panels for the light and sound presentation.<br />
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Afterwards, we were herded to the last hall which featured an exhibit on the Philippine Constitution. We all did just a quick look as the room was filled with the smell of sweat and the sound of pounding hammers from the adjacent hallway. </div>
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We all tried to find respite from the heat at the courtyard downstairs. The courtyard is said to be a favorite venue for wedding receptions. While others took photos, I decided to take a seat in one of the wooden benches. I looked around and wondered if any of the trees there lived long enough to witness the important events that led to the birth of the republic and the country's short-lived independence from Spain. I didn't notice any signs or marks on the trees though unlike in <a href="http://raintravels.blogspot.com/2011/07/beauty-at-paco-park.html">Paco Park</a>. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_34iZPGktck/T0vcChcJLYI/AAAAAAAAAtA/u4pURSp2Zdo/s1600/barasoain+courtyard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_34iZPGktck/T0vcChcJLYI/AAAAAAAAAtA/u4pURSp2Zdo/s320/barasoain+courtyard.jpg" width="220" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Barasoain Church is also known as the Nuestra Senora del Carmen<br />
or Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Parish.</td></tr>
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Soon, the tour guide announced that it was time to go. With my cheeks red from the afternoon heat and my mouth dry, I stood in a queue to the bus. I regretted that I did not visit Barasoain Church on my own and hoped that I could return soon to explore it at my own pace. <i>Have you ever felt that way about the places you've visited?</i><br />
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Inside the bus, the tour guide said that the Barasoain Church's design was patterned by the Augustinian missionaries after another church in Spain. I Googled it when I got home and found out that it was the Iglesia de Barasoain (see photo <a href="http://www.panoramio.com/photo/21419854">here</a>) in Navarra. <i>Do you see any similarities? Share your comments below!</i></div>Rainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08420708024847226996noreply@blogger.com0Barasoain Church, Malolos City, Philippines14.846467 120.812653614.8445485 120.81018610000001 14.848385500000001 120.8151211tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7436402682566663162.post-41928607762082519472012-02-04T05:30:00.000+08:002012-02-05T17:06:17.680+08:00Pista! Fantastic Festivals in the Philippines<i>Like it? Share it on Facebook or Twitter!</i><br />
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<span style="text-align: justify;">Don't be surprised if the Philippines, with its rich heritage and more than 7,000 islands in its archipelago, has a lot of festivals or <i>pista. </i>There are many reasons for Filipinos to celebrate: To give thanks, seek favors, ask for forgiveness, remember history, pay tribute to a local produce or honor a saint. Here are just some of the remarkable local festivals and events in the country:</span></div>
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<tr><td><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bk2l5qC6HTk/TycTNKfQ3tI/AAAAAAAAAq4/SkjhhNCQSeY/s1600/sinulog+festival+philippines.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bk2l5qC6HTk/TycTNKfQ3tI/AAAAAAAAAq4/SkjhhNCQSeY/s400/sinulog+festival+philippines.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Viva Santo Nino! The Sinulog Festival of Cebu.<br />
(Photo from sinulog.ph)</td></tr>
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<b>JANUARY</b><br />
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<b>Feast of the Black Nazarene (January 9) - </b>The Philippines is one of the few countries in the world with a large number of Catholics. In the country's capital, Manila, a mammoth crowd of devotees flock to Quiapo Church to pray to the miraculous image of a dark-colored Jesus Christ bearing a cross. Called the Black Nazarene, the life-sized wooden icon is displayed to the public on the first week of January and culminates with a large procession around key areas in Manila on January 9. Processions and masses in honor of the Black Nazarene are also held in other parts of the Philippines but nothing beats the crowd at Quiapo as the procession takes almost the whole day, with people (mostly men) walking barefoot to imitate Jesus Christ who walked to Calvary with no sandals on his feet. The remarkable devotion and the unbelievable number of attendees each year make it one festival worth witnessing. </div>
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<b>Feast of the Santo Nino (Third week of January)- </b>The Santo Nino refers to the Holy Child or image of the Child Jesus. The celebration, which is at least a week-long, serves as a reminder for Catholics to have faith like that of little children. It usually begins with masses and novena in honor of the Holy Child and concludes with a grand parade, street-dancing and merry-making on the third Sunday of January. </div>
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In Kalibo, Aklan, the Feast of Santo Nino is part of the <i>Ati-Atihan Festival </i>which commemorates the conversion of the natives of Panay to the Catholic faith as well as the peace pact between the Aetas and the Malays before the Philippines was colonized. In Cebu, it's part of the <i>Sinulog Festival </i>as Sinulog refers to the dance ritual in honor of the Sto. Nino. In Iloilo City, the feast of the Holy Child is celebrated on the fourth Sunday of January and is called <i>Dinagyang Festival. </i><br />
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<b>FEBRUARY</b><br />
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<tr><td><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4Gq1R8kq0oo/TybnPsfgB4I/AAAAAAAAAqg/hoV05pFAeVA/s1600/Baguio+Panagbenga+Fluvial+Parade.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4Gq1R8kq0oo/TybnPsfgB4I/AAAAAAAAAqg/hoV05pFAeVA/s400/Baguio+Panagbenga+Fluvial+Parade.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Fluvial Parade at Burnham Park for Baguio's Panagbenga Festival<br />
(Photo from Panagbenga Festival's Facebook page) </td></tr>
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<b>Panagbenga Festival (month-long) - </b>The month-long flower festival is held in the country's summer capital, Baguio City. Panagbenga means a season of blooming and is a tribute to the beautiful flowers as well as the rich culture and resilience of the people of the Cordillera region. A street parade of colorful floats decorated with blossoms, dancing on the streets, a fluvial parade, and cultural performances are just some of the festival's highlights.<br />
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<b>Pamulinawen Festival (February 1 to 10) - </b>The people of Laoag City, Ilocos Norte celebrate the feast of its Patron Saint, William the Hermit, through songs, parades, dances and banquets that also showcase the history and tradition of the people of Ilocos (<i>Ilocanos</i>). The festivities could last a whole month, depending on the organizers.<br />
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<b>Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta (Second week of February) </b>- This is a 3 to 4 day hot air balloon festival that also features a variety of aviation sports such as skydiving, paragliding, etc. It's held every year at Clark Freeport Zone in Pampanga and draws a lot of local and international visitors. It was first held to inspire the communities affected by the 1991 Mount Pinatubo eruption and boost the local economy.<br />
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<b>Tinapay Festival (Second week of February) - </b>This annual celebration pays homage to the<i> panaderos </i>or bakers of Cuenca, Batangas. The highlight, of course, is the mouth-watering parade of local bread of different shapes and sizes. <br />
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<b>MARCH</b><br />
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<tr><td><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iS_YA3zobCg/Tyb7hdjYzjI/AAAAAAAAAqo/w2Z8kqb6SzY/s1600/bangkero+festival+pagsanjan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iS_YA3zobCg/Tyb7hdjYzjI/AAAAAAAAAqo/w2Z8kqb6SzY/s400/bangkero+festival+pagsanjan.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Race to the finish: The Bangkero Festival of Pagsanjan<br />
(Photo from the 13th Bangkero Festival Facebook page)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>Kaamulan Festival (last week of February to first week of March) - </b>This festival is held every year at Malaybalay, Bukidnon and pays tribute to the way of life of the 7 indigenous groups of Bukidnon. It's an amazing introduction to their traditions and practices. It culminates with a grand celebration of the founding anniversary of the province (March 10).<br />
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<b>Bangkero Festival (first week of March)</b> - Held annually in Pagsanjan, Laguna, this festival is in honor of Pagsanjan's patroness, Our Lady of Guadalupe. It is also a tribute to the hardworking and multi-tasking boatmen of Pagsanjan. The festival boasts of exciting activities on land and on water such as street dancing, chorale singing, fluvial parade and boat race.<br />
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<b>APRIL </b><br />
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<tr><td><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XBAEbK19xvk/TycOxMgs51I/AAAAAAAAAqw/DeJc3UxpAos/s1600/moriones+festival+marinduque.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="230" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XBAEbK19xvk/TycOxMgs51I/AAAAAAAAAqw/DeJc3UxpAos/s400/moriones+festival+marinduque.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Masked men: Moriones Festival<br />
(Image from Moriones Festival of Marinduque Philippines)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>Magayon Festival (month-long) </b>- The festival named after the legendary maiden Magayon showcases the beauty, culture, arts, history and people of the province of Albay. The celebration is also a good opportunity to explore the province's spicy local cuisine as well as its natural attractions which includes the famous Mayon Volcano.<br />
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<b>Guimaras Manggahan Festival (2nd-3rd week of April) - </b>Guimaras, Iloilo is the home of the sweetest ripe mangoes so it's not surprising that it has a festival in honor of its top produce. Taste the best mangoes of the Philippines, join the fun street-dancing, see the colorful parade and enjoy other activities in this week-long celebration.<br />
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<b>Semana Santa (Holy Week) </b>- This is a religious festival observed by Catholics all over the Philippines. Solemn processions and masses are held to commemorate the life, passion, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Most Catholic families participate in a <i>Visita Iglesia </i>on Maundy Thursday, where they visit 7 or 14 churches and meditate on the Way of the Cross. On Good Friday and Black Saturday, the mood is generally somber as the crucifixion and death of Christ is remembered. The festival becomes more joyful by Easter Sunday as Filipinos celebrate Jesus' Resurrection.<br />
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<b>Maleldo (Good Friday) </b>- San Pedro, Cutud, Pampanga, is the venue of the one-of-a-kind commemoration of the passion and death of Jesus Christ. Also known as the Cutud Lenten Rites, devotees engage in self-flagellation as they re-enact Jesus' walk to Calvary. It culminates with the re-enactment of the crucifixion of Christ.<br />
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<b>Moriones Festival (Holy Week) </b>- The people of the island of Marinduque commemorate the passion and death of Christ by re-enacting the story of Longinus, the Roman centurion who converted to Christianity after experiencing a miracle during Jesus' crucifixion.. Men and women wear large masks and Roman-inspired costumes during the festival then roam the streets, engaging in crazy antics as they search for Longinus.<br />
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<b>MAY</b><br />
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<tr><td><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VUz8QMHzrKo/TycYOnx0O4I/AAAAAAAAArA/-Dzx7VMBnrM/s1600/379533_10150506283847290_501807289_8706169_579922288_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="245" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VUz8QMHzrKo/TycYOnx0O4I/AAAAAAAAArA/-Dzx7VMBnrM/s400/379533_10150506283847290_501807289_8706169_579922288_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Just one of the creative things you'll see at Lucban's Pahiyas Festival.</td></tr>
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<b>Flores de Mayo Festival (month-long) - </b>Most towns and cities in the Philippines celebrate this festival in honor of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Devotees pray the rosary in honor of Mary and offer her flowers in their church. The celebration culminates with the <i>Santacruzan </i>or a colorful procession (featuring the town's beautiful maidens) in honor of Queen Helena and Constantine the Great's search for the Holy Cross. A grand feast and games for the children are also done on the last day of the festival.<br />
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<b>Carabao Festival (May 14-15) </b>- Carabaos or water buffaloes take center stage in this festival that honor the farmer's animal of choice. The celebration usually starts on the 14th of May with a Carabao Parade while a thanksgiving feast and other activities in honor of Saint Isidore are held on the 15th. Pulilan, Bulacan and Angono, Rizal are the best places to witness this festival. <br />
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<b>Pahiyas Festival (May 15) - </b>Lucban, Quezon turns into a rainbow of colors as each household is decorated with local produce, palm hats, and <i>kiping</i> (colorful, leaf-shaped wafer) to give thanks to Saint Isidore, the patron of farmers and peasants. Aside from the creative and colorful houses, visitors to Lucban also get an opportunity to enjoy local food, watch cultural performances, and observe the people's customs. The nearby municipalities of Sariaya, Gumaca, and Tayabas, Quezon also pay homage to Saint Isidore or San Isidro on the same day.<br />
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<b>Pista ng Obando (May 17-19)</b>- Popularly known as <i><a href="http://obandofertilityrites.com/Obandofertilityrites.html">Obando Fertility Rites</a></i>, this unusual festival is celebrated at Obando, Bulacan and honors St. Clare of Assisi, St. Paschal and Our Lady of Salambao. Festival-goers join the grand procession or watch devotees sing and dance on the streets as they ask for a saint's intercession to help them find a partner (husband or wife), enjoy good fortune or bear a child. <br />
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<b>JUNE</b><br />
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<tr><td><a href="http://www.philippinetravel.ws/wp-content/uploads/parada-ng-lechon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://www.philippinetravel.ws/wp-content/uploads/parada-ng-lechon.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">These little piggies went hula dancing: Parada ng Lechon<br />
(Image from www.philippinetravel.ws)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>Feast of St. John the Baptist (June 24) </b>- Prepare to get wet in this festival where you'd literally get splashed or sprayed with water. Locally known as <i>Pista ng San Juan, </i>residents from cities or towns honoring St. John appear to be in a water fight where even those passing by are not spared from being doused. Towns and cities named after San Juan (especially in Metro Manila) celebrate this feast with much fervor.<br />
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<b>Parada ng Lechon (June 24) - </b>The star of this festival is the succulent roasted pig (lechon) that is considered a delicacy in Balayan, Batangas. At the start of the day, whole roasted pigs dressed in colorful and sometimes crazy costumes are first blessed in church before they are paraded on the streets of Balayan. Expect a merry feast after the parade and prepare to get wet, too, as this celebration is also in honor of St. John the Baptist. (<i>Note: La Loma, Quezon City also holds a Roasted Pig Parade during its Lechon Festival every third Sunday of May.)</i><br />
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<b>Pintados/Kasadyaan Festival (June 29) - </b>This is a joint celebration of the Pintados Festival and Kasadyaan Festival of Festivals that's held in Tacloban, Leyte. It showcases the ancient art of body painting that was practiced by the early inhabitants (Pintados) of Visayas. It also pays homage to the patron of Tacloban, the Senor Sto. Nino or the Holy Child.<br />
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<b>JULY</b><br />
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<b>Sandugo Festival (July 22) - </b>Held each year at Tagbilaran, Bohol, this festival commemorates the agreement between Datu Sikatuna, one of early leaders of Bohol, and Miguel Lopez de Legaspi, a Spanish conquistador. Aside from a reenactment of the historical blood compact, various activities such as street dancing, sports events, and fireworks display are also organized for everyone's entertainment.<br />
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<b>AUGUST </b><br />
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<b>Kadayawan Festival (Third week of August) - </b>Kadayawan, which the people of Davao City consider as The King of Festivals, is a celebration held every hear as thanksgiving for life's blessings. Different indigenous groups join the festivities to acknowledge the bountiful harvest and showcase their traditions. The festival also showcases the natural wealth of Davao City such as its mountain, river, flowers, and fruits. Parades, street dancing, water sports, and cultural presentations are just some of the many activities scheduled during the Kadayawan Festival.<br />
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<b>Tsinelas Festival (August 25) - </b>Gapan, Nueva Ecija claims to be the Slippers Capital of the North. Thus, the Tsinelas (slippers) Festival is held each year to show off this product. See extremely large footwear displayed on the streets of Gapan as well as a parade of floats designed with slippers in this annual event. <br />
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<b>SEPTEMBER</b><br />
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<b>Siargao Surfing Festival </b>(<b>month-long) - </b>This festival, which usually begins on the third week of September and lasts up to October, is composed of various local and international surfing events at one of the best places<br />
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<b>Feast of Our Lady of Penafrancia (September 17) -</b> Also known as the Penafrancia Festival, it's held in Naga City, Camarines Sur and is popular for its Grand Fluvial Procession in honor of Our Lady of Penafrancia. Other festival events include concerts, parades, dance competitions, sports events, and Naga's annual fiesta, usually celebrated the day after.<br />
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<b>OCTOBER</b><br />
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<tr><td><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KeduydkIrdE/Tanntc_06RI/AAAAAAAAAII/73lYQYp_Pyw/s1600/bacolod5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KeduydkIrdE/Tanntc_06RI/AAAAAAAAAII/73lYQYp_Pyw/s320/bacolod5.jpg" width="316" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Some of the colorful masks worn during the MassKara Festival.</td></tr>
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<b>Zamboanga Hermosa Festival (October 1 to 12) - </b>Zamboanga Hermosa means "Beautiful Zamboanga" and this festival celebrates everything that's beautiful about Asia's Latin City. The festival's main attraction is the Regatta de Zamboanga, which features a race among colorful <i>vintas </i>or local sailboats. <br />
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<b>MassKara Festival </b>(<b>Third week of October, nearest to October 19</b>)<b> - </b>Celebrated each year at <a href="http://raintravels.blogspot.com/2011/04/bacolod-philipines-charm-and-good-taste.html">Bacolod City</a>, Negros Occidental, the MassKara Festival is considered as the Mardi Gras of the Philippines as the streets are filled with people wearing colorful masks with smiling faces. Lots of partying and dancing happen on and off the streets during this much-anticipated festival.<br />
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<tr><td><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Oj_o_Z2d6Dc/TtKCX_QTshI/AAAAAAAAAhI/QKmXNbrFXpo/s1600/higantes12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Oj_o_Z2d6Dc/TtKCX_QTshI/AAAAAAAAAhI/QKmXNbrFXpo/s320/higantes12.jpg" width="297" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;"><i>We're not snobs!</i> The Higantes Festival of Angono.</td></tr>
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<b>NOVEMBER</b><br />
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<b>Higantes Festival (November 22 and 23) - </b>Angono, Rizal pays homage to Pope Clement I or Saint Clement through a grand parade of giants called <i>Higantes. </i>This religious festival also features a fluvial procession, street-dancing, and a fair showcasing local produce and crafts. Read more about the Higantes Festival <a href="http://raintravels.blogspot.com/2011/11/meet-giants-of-angono-higantes-festival.html">here</a>.<br />
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<b style="text-align: left;">DECEMBER</b> <br />
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<tr><td><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--uvJoZfG_dc/Tyw34GsoajI/AAAAAAAAArI/5fA4VJuZaQQ/s1600/christmas1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="207" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--uvJoZfG_dc/Tyw34GsoajI/AAAAAAAAArI/5fA4VJuZaQQ/s400/christmas1.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Christmas lights at Roxas Boulevard, Manila.</td></tr>
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<b>Christmas (month-long) - </b>Actually, Christmas in the Philippines is celebrated as early as September as homes start putting up colorful <i>parols </i>(lanterns) and decors months before the holidays. However, various cities and municipalities lead festivals in celebration of Christmas by first week of December. These include <i>Pasko sa Sugbu </i>in Cebu City; <i>Kasadya-an Festival </i>in Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental; Christmas in Baguio in Baguio City; and <i>Kamundagan</i> <i>Festival</i> in Naga City, Camarines Sur. Aside from the traditional lighting of the Christmas tree, each festival presents local traditions observed during the holidays.<br />
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<b>Giant Lantern Parade </b>(Second weekend of December) - This annual festival at San Fernando, Pampanga features mammoth-size lanterns that give the illusion of dancing lights. The lanterns represent the <i>barangays </i>of San Fernando<i> </i>and highlight the creativity and cooperation among its residents.<br />
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Take note that festival dates may change. For example, the MassKara, which is usually just a week-long festival, was celebrated as early as the first week of October last 2011. So make sure to check this blog or my <a href="https://www.facebook.com/raintravels.blog">Facebook page</a> regularly for updates. For schedule of Philippine holidays, see this <a href="http://raintravels.blogspot.com/2011/12/hear-ye-hear-ye-philippine-holidays-and.html">post</a>.<br />
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<i>Think there are major festivals in the Philippines that should be included in this list? Feel free to share it here! </i><br />
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<br /></div>Rainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08420708024847226996noreply@blogger.com2Manila, Philippines14.5995124 120.984219514.5380484 120.9052555 14.660976400000001 121.0631835tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7436402682566663162.post-25483728256177059532012-01-29T05:30:00.000+08:002012-01-30T01:49:09.778+08:00Enter the Dragon: Chinese New Year at Manila Chinatown<i>Like it? Share it on Facebook or Twitter!</i><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3lkvqFSLDEk/TyQaaFUowKI/AAAAAAAAApI/drBjvGOT_VY/s1600/welcome+to+chinatown.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3lkvqFSLDEk/TyQaaFUowKI/AAAAAAAAApI/drBjvGOT_VY/s320/welcome+to+chinatown.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Red lanterns with yellow-gold tassels hang <br />
on the streets of Binondo during Chinese New Year.</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Binondo</b>, located in the city of Manila, is considered as the oldest Chinatown in the world. This district, which got its name from <i>binundok</i> or mountain, is also one of the extraordinary places to eat around the globe according to National Geographic. Thus, my friends and I decided to celebrate the eve of Chinese New Year or Spring Festival in Binondo. </span><br />
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<a name='more'></a>Our plan was simple: To enjoy a good Chinese brunch and observe the festivities. Like all plans, of course, there were unexpected changes. The party of five became two and the brunch became late lunch. As such, I found myself with a lot of time on my hands and searched for something to do.<br />
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<b>Walking through history</b><br />
Coming from the LRT Carriedo Station, I decided to revisit some of the historical spots in <b>Santa Cruz</b> before heading to Binondo. Santa Cruz, like Binondo, is a place rich in history. In addition, most of the country's big banks and businesses started in these districts.<br />
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My first stop was <b>Plaza Lacson.</b> The plaza was named after the "self-styled Don Quixote" and arguably the greatest mayor of the City of Manila, Arsenio H. Lacson. It was originally named Plaza de Goiti, after Spanish conquistador Martin de Goiti who led the conquest of the kingdoms of pre-colonial Manila.<br />
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<tr><td><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5hujuFdbQvc/TyGLsiKjxQI/AAAAAAAAAow/VRhL5mKnMRU/s1600/plaza+lacson.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5hujuFdbQvc/TyGLsiKjxQI/AAAAAAAAAow/VRhL5mKnMRU/s400/plaza+lacson.jpg" width="193" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;"> The Arsenio H. Lacson monument<br />
was made by renowned sculptor<br />
Eduardo Castrillo.</td></tr>
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Facing Plaza Lacson is the old <b>Don Ramon Santos building</b>. Taking my cue from the movie 500 Days of Summer, I ignored the activity on the street and looked up to appreciate the building's decorative details. Named after the founder of Prudential Bank, the once white-washed edifice stands out for its neo-classical, Greco-Roman architecture.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VxeKBexhnlM/TyPYpIGlMwI/AAAAAAAAAo4/-AtQDz5i738/s1600/don+ramon+building+santa+cruz.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="230" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VxeKBexhnlM/TyPYpIGlMwI/AAAAAAAAAo4/-AtQDz5i738/s400/don+ramon+building+santa+cruz.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A local bank occupies the ground floor of Don Roman Santos Building. </td></tr>
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A short distance from Plaza Lacson is the <b>Santa Cruz Church</b>, one of the area's well-known landmarks. This baroque church was established by the Jesuits in 1608 and served the communities that lived outside the walled city of Intramuros, particularly the Chinese immigrants who converted to the Catholic faith.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Uq5EjcQUIRs/TyQg8N6omdI/AAAAAAAAApo/7v9TzXDineI/s1600/santa+cruz+church+manila.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Uq5EjcQUIRs/TyQg8N6omdI/AAAAAAAAApo/7v9TzXDineI/s320/santa+cruz+church+manila.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A mix of Christian and Buddhist elements<br />
at Santa Cruz Church.</td></tr>
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Across the church and at the center of the plaza (Plaza Santa Cruz) is the European-style <b>Carriedo fountain</b>. This water fountain was built in honor of General Francisco Carriedo who is considered as Manila's greatest benefactor. He was responsible for bequeathing money for the construction of a water system in Manila for the benefit of the poor. It took many years before his vision was realized and thanks to the efforts of Franciscan friar Father Felix de Huerta, Manila's first water system was inaugurated in 1882.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Unk5RVOc-fw/TyGLomVaqCI/AAAAAAAAAoo/4oLMlan-WtM/s1600/carriedo+fountain.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Unk5RVOc-fw/TyGLomVaqCI/AAAAAAAAAoo/4oLMlan-WtM/s320/carriedo+fountain.jpg" width="236" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Carriedo Fountain needs a fresh coat of paint.</td></tr>
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A few steps away from the Carriedo fountain is the <b>Arch of Goodwill</b> which symbolizes centuries of friendship between Filipinos and Chinese. The arch serves as entrance to Binondo's <b>Ongpin Street</b>. Formerly called Calle Sacrista, it was renamed to honor nationalist merchant Roman Ongpin who supported the Filipino freedom fighters during the revolution against Spain and also during the Philippine-American war. A statue of Roman Ongpin stands near Binondo Church.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6Z--h-mFTlU/TyQacwM3M_I/AAAAAAAAApQ/EEpFnb8bsfc/s1600/binondo+arch+of+goodwill.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="297" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6Z--h-mFTlU/TyQacwM3M_I/AAAAAAAAApQ/EEpFnb8bsfc/s400/binondo+arch+of+goodwill.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Green tiled roof and dragons on top means welcome to Chinatown.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>Feast for the senses</b><br />
There was a sizable crowd at Ongpin Street as it was the center of activities for the Chinese New Year celebration. I made my way slowly so I could enjoy the sights, sounds, and smells. My eyes feasted on the round red lanterns, lucky charms of different colors and sizes, various round fruits and colorful boxes of treats. There were also large tents on the street that showcased elements of Chinese-Filipino culture such as feng shui, Chinese calligraphy and paper folding, among others. These were part of the First Pedestrian Day in Chinatown and added to the festive nature of the occasion. In some street corners, there were stages being decorated for the cultural presentations scheduled in the afternoon.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZXj_8b2grlI/TyQeRrvzbLI/AAAAAAAAApY/EZ51Z-Ln-B4/s1600/binondo+chinese+new+year+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="347" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZXj_8b2grlI/TyQeRrvzbLI/AAAAAAAAApY/EZ51Z-Ln-B4/s400/binondo+chinese+new+year+3.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">People from different walks of life exploring Binondo.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1NOhyLbViiM/TyQlpKNNA8I/AAAAAAAAApw/EXe7al1FY7A/s1600/binondo1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="241" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1NOhyLbViiM/TyQlpKNNA8I/AAAAAAAAApw/EXe7al1FY7A/s400/binondo1.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Water Dragons for luck.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I was tempted to buy some Chinese dim sum and pastries when I passed by the popular stores and restaurants along Ongpin. Luckily, a group of Chinese Dragon Dance performers kept me from yielding to temptation. They were carrying a long, serpent-like dragon with a vivid red color and humongous head. I managed to snap a photo of the dragon's head before the crowd and DSLR-toting folks blocked my view. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IiXaHQQ-jNY/TyQfS3SAzDI/AAAAAAAAApg/tNbZrurFWvY/s1600/binondo3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="236" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IiXaHQQ-jNY/TyQfS3SAzDI/AAAAAAAAApg/tNbZrurFWvY/s400/binondo3.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The dragon 's head and the pearl. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Afterwards, I went to the intersection of Ongpin and Quintin Paredes Streets, where the <b>Binondo Church's</b><b> </b>located. Established in 1596, Binondo Church was built during the Spanish colonization of the Philippines to serve the growing number of Chinese converts. It was damaged and rebuilt several times that only the bell tower remained from its original structure. It's said that the first Filipino saint, Lorenzo Ruiz, served in this church as a sacristan or altar boy. Hence, it's also known as the Minor Basilica of St. Lorenzo Ruiz. The plaza outside Binondo Church was also named after him.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Xg68YRA0zZs/TyQaQizUBkI/AAAAAAAAApA/gGyWMY8oMW8/s1600/binondo+church+facade.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Xg68YRA0zZs/TyQaQizUBkI/AAAAAAAAApA/gGyWMY8oMW8/s400/binondo+church+facade.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It's difficult to appreciate Binondo Church's facade with all those large banners<br />
bearing greetings from politicians. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
After picking up my friend near <b>Plaza Lorenzo Ruiz</b>, we both headed to <b>Calle Nueva</b>. The street was once popular for stores that sold stationery and office products. Nueva, which means "new", was renamed E.T. Yuchengco Street in 2005 after the late Don Enrique T. Yuchengco, one of the contractors of the Manila Post Office building and founder of one of the oldest insurance companies in the Philippines. At the heart of Yuchengco Street is <b>Sincerity Cafe and Restaurant</b>, the venue of our lunch. Typical of the restaurants in the area, it has a simple, no-frills ambiance. It's claim to fame is its <i>fried chicken</i> which is considered as the best chicken in Chinatown. I'll tell you more about Sincerity and other treats at Binondo in my next post.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MhIMhjg5KKI/TyQyUrnpEqI/AAAAAAAAAqA/5Bmg0Mv7DUg/s1600/sincerity+chicken.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="229" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MhIMhjg5KKI/TyQyUrnpEqI/AAAAAAAAAqA/5Bmg0Mv7DUg/s320/sincerity+chicken.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sincerity Chicken: Simple yet delightful.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Later, we made our way back to Ongpin for coffee and dessert. We decided to hang out at Lord Stow's Bakery to watch the festivities while taking a break from the 3 p.m. heat. Aside from the dragon dance parade, we saw some young men walking around, offering a lion dance for a fee. There were also a daring few who were dressed to the nines while queuing for <i>tikoy</i> (nian gao) and <i>hopia </i>(bean-filled Chinese pastry)<i>. </i>Interestingly, there was a good number of tourists wandering with their cameras. Some of them had a twinkle in their eyes that seemed to say, "We're ready for anything!" and there were those with eyebrows crossed, sweating and perhaps thinking, "WTF did I get myself into?!"<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-57frH6662p4/TyQ75afn9gI/AAAAAAAAAqQ/MHjtS7KVN5A/s1600/binondo+chinese+new+year+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="260" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-57frH6662p4/TyQ75afn9gI/AAAAAAAAAqQ/MHjtS7KVN5A/s400/binondo+chinese+new+year+4.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The crowd parts to make way for a lion and a dragon. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I guess the best way to explore Manila's Chinatown, especially during a festival, is to do a little research beforehand and bring a map or a street guide to help you make your way to the busy streets or locate the best places to eat dim sum. Otherwise, the cultural mishmash, the seemingly worn-down establishments, and the overwhelming smell of murky canals and burning incense may keep you from enjoying its rich heritage, colorful festivities, and gastronomic delights.<br />
<br />
<i>Have you been to Manila's Chinatown? </i><i>Have you celebrated the Chinese Spring Festival outside your country? </i><i>Share your thoughts below! </i><br />
<i><br /></i><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Sources: Busines World Online, <a href="http://manilahub.blogspot.com/2008/10/carriedo-fountain-in-plaza-sta-cruz.html"> Manila Hub</a>, </i><i>National Historical Institute, and <a href="http://senorenrique.blogspot.com/2006/09/manilas-plaza-goiti.html">senorenrique</a>.</i></span><br />
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<br /></div>Rainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08420708024847226996noreply@blogger.com1Binondo, Manila, Philippines14.601192 120.975006514.585825999999999 120.95526550000001 14.616558 120.9947475tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7436402682566663162.post-70243266179183318472012-01-19T05:30:00.000+08:002012-01-19T05:30:02.043+08:00Sydney on a Budget: A Guide For Filipino Travelers<i>Like it? Share it on Facebook or Twitter!</i><br />
<i><br /></i><br />
<i>This is a guest post from <a href="http://raintravels.blogspot.com/2012/01/meet-traveler-oma.html">Oma</a> who spent the holidays in Sydney. All photos in this post were taken by her. </i><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Rk3j7ecwAKE/TxZC3heI9YI/AAAAAAAAAnw/fVUU57kYjJw/s1600/sydney6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="228" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Rk3j7ecwAKE/TxZC3heI9YI/AAAAAAAAAnw/fVUU57kYjJw/s400/sydney6.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Hello, Sydney! </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-PH" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; color: #333333; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Before my
trip, I honestly didn’t understand why most of the Aussies I talked to said
that people like me would prefer Sydney more than Melbourne. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-PH" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; color: #333333; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-PH" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; color: #333333; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">After spending almost 2 weeks in Sydney, I finally understood why. </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-PH" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; color: #333333; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span></span></div>
<a name='more'></a><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-PH" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; color: #333333; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">For us Filipinos who love the sun and the
beach and are comfortable wearing cotton shirts and <i>tsinelas </i>(flipflops) in public, we could easily fit in Sydney’s
familiar warm and laid-back lifestyle. </span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">As Sydney is widely
known to celebrate the New Year with splendour, my friend and I decided to
spend Christmas and New Year at the state capital of New South Wales (NSW). The
city teemed with tourists from all over the globe.</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">My estimate was that more than half of
Sydney’s population was made up of tourists during the holidays.</span></div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">After dealing with tons of
tourists and high costs, here’s what I learned and would recommend to fellow
travellers who wish to explore Sydney during the holiday season: </span></div>
<span lang="EN-PH"></span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-PH"><span style="color: #333333; line-height: 18px;"></span></span><br />
<span lang="EN-PH"><span style="color: #333333; line-height: 18px;"></span></span></div>
<span lang="EN-PH">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">
<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial;">1. <b>Do not
spend too much time in the Central Business District</b> (CBD). There’s a free guided tour of the city which
takes you around the city on foot for 3 hours.
This gives you an idea of the areas to hang out or the buildings you
would want to visit again. Since the
guided tour is free, they only rely on the customers’ gratuity. <o:p></o:p></span></span></span><br />
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<tr><td><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1xKUoPeTVMw/TxZDW3hW_BI/AAAAAAAAAoQ/SxbVJx6AqvQ/s1600/sydney_free+tours.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1xKUoPeTVMw/TxZDW3hW_BI/AAAAAAAAAoQ/SxbVJx6AqvQ/s400/sydney_free+tours.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Check for free tours at <a href="http://www.imfree.com.au/" style="background-color: white;">http://www.imfree.com.au/</a> .</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-size: 16px; line-height: 18px;"></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-PH"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial;"></span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-PH"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span lang="EN-PH" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; color: #333333; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">2. </span><b><span lang="EN-PH" style="color: #333333; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">I<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial;">f you don't like being
surrounded by sky scrapers and prefer the sand and waves, head straight to Coogee,
Watson's Bay, Bondi or Manly beach</span></span></b><span lang="EN-PH" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; color: #333333; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">. These
places have been designed in such a way that the beach, parks, restaurants and
shops are close to each other. Among the four that I have been to, my
favourites are Coogee and Watson’s Bay. Both places give you a breath taking
view of the waters from the cliffs. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span lang="EN-PH" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; color: #333333; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<tr><td><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Qr2o7ooUJSc/TxZDED4iWoI/AAAAAAAAAoA/4tUcfeMPaIE/s1600/sydney8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Qr2o7ooUJSc/TxZDED4iWoI/AAAAAAAAAoA/4tUcfeMPaIE/s400/sydney8.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">See the forces of nature at Watson's Bay.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-PH" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; color: #333333; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">3. <b>Take the ferry</b>. Although Sydney’s popular
mode of public transport is the bus, riding the ferry is a nicer option for
those who wish to enjoy the city’s sights. You will also pass by the Sydney
Opera house and Harbour Bridge which provides a beautiful backdrop for your requisite
photo op. Unlike the bus, the ferries’ trips are less frequent and end earlier
in the day so do not forget to check the timetable/schedule of your ferry’s
return journey.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pNqgYyTGGAM/TxZCrAF4dHI/AAAAAAAAAno/Fpg0L_9Vxak/s1600/sydney5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pNqgYyTGGAM/TxZCrAF4dHI/AAAAAAAAAno/Fpg0L_9Vxak/s400/sydney5.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Sydney Harbour Bridge </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-PH" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; color: #333333; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">4. Speaking
of transport, Sydney’s transport pricing system is a bit complicated (fares
depend on distance covered). <b>I would recommend the multi day or multi
weekly pass</b> tickets to give you some peace of mind.<span class="apple-converted-space"> <o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="apple-converted-space"><span lang="EN-PH" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; color: #333333; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="apple-converted-space"><span lang="EN-PH" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; color: #333333; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">5. </span></span><span lang="EN-PH" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; color: #333333; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Eating out and drinking are relatively
expensive. In the city, a decent meal costs 10-14 AUD. Fast food is cheaper but if you do not want
to stuff yourself with empty calories, <b>just
prepare and bring your good ol' <i>baon </i></b>(packed
lunch).<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span lang="EN-PH" style="color: #333333; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span lang="EN-PH" style="color: #333333; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-PH" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; color: #333333; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">6. <b>Unless
you have someone to drive you to the Blue Mountains, do not avail of the Blue
Mountains package tours.</b> Better yet, take the public train. Blue Mountains is among the must-see places
in Sydney (although I wouldn’t say that I missed half of my life if I had not
gone there). It is an hour and half train ride from the city. If you have money
to burn, you can opt for Scenic World which offers one-minute cable car,
railway, and skyway rides to see the Blue Mountains from different angles. Shuttle
services in Katoomba (the train stop you have to get off from) offer discounted
package rates for these rides. If you
decide that you want to go to Scenic World, be there early to avoid queuing. </span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">You may also want to do bushwalks or hiking
which most package tours do not mention.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-PH" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; color: #333333; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-87sIGqlm1Ic/TxZCXsMFwiI/AAAAAAAAAnY/u4-JjVX33eI/s1600/sydney10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-87sIGqlm1Ic/TxZCXsMFwiI/AAAAAAAAAnY/u4-JjVX33eI/s400/sydney10.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">So the Blue Mountains is really blue!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-PH" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; color: #333333; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">7. <b>Enjoy
the free admission</b>. Sydney has galleries and museums that are offered free
to the public. This includes the Art
Gallery NSW which houses an amazing collection of Aboriginal, Australian,
European, Asian and contemporary art. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-PH" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; color: #333333; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-PH" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; color: #333333; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">8. <b>Take note that a lot of places in Sydney
are closed during Christmas Day</b>. So if you do not like to be stuck at your
room on Christmas day, you might want to join the other one thousand tourists
who are ready to party on Bondi beach. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<tr><td><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SC0n0PpGck8/TxZDTgeP30I/AAAAAAAAAoI/e9n_fenBvwU/s1600/sydney9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SC0n0PpGck8/TxZDTgeP30I/AAAAAAAAAoI/e9n_fenBvwU/s400/sydney9.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">I must say that Sydney's Fireworks display is definitely worth this long queue!</td></tr>
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<span lang="EN-PH" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; color: #333333; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">9. <b>Watch the fireworks without spending a lot.</b>
If you want to catch Sydney’s famous New Year’s Eve fireworks but do not want
to spend 200 to 1000 AUD to get a good and clear view of the pyrotechnics, one
of the popular options is to watch it by Macquaries Point. The area is quite
close to the Harbour Bridge, is elevated, and is open to the public for free.
Thus, I recommend that you come in very
early as people start lining up as early as 6 am to get the unblocked view of
the bridge. They also let in only 20,000
people in the area then close the gates by late afternoon. If you get there early, make sure that you
are mentally prepared to wait for more than twelve hours. This means that you packed
your bag with food, drinks and items that will either keep you warm or shield
you from the heat or rain. Bring playing cards or books - things that would
keep you busy, less anxious and less grumpy. However, if you do not want to
queue that early and you have a lot of time in your hands prior to New Year’s
Eve, we suggest that you visit other recommended vantage points. Just make sure
to figure out how you are going to get yourself there and how to get public
transport to bring you back home. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-PH" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; color: #333333; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">10. <b>Most importantly, don’t be shy to ask</b> locals or fellow <i>Pinoys</i> about things to see and do in Sydney on a budget. It wouldn't hurt to ask. They may know some things that you did not get to read about in your
research or provide you helpful feedback on how realistic is your itinerary. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-PH" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; color: #333333; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-PH" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; color: #333333; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>See more photos of Sydney at the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.361562997190952.101939.222829007731019&type=1">Rain's Travels Facebook page</a>.</i></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>Rainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08420708024847226996noreply@blogger.com21Sydney NSW, Australia-33.873651 151.2068896-33.8868345 151.1871486 -33.860467500000006 151.22663060000002tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7436402682566663162.post-59231197585580931472012-01-17T21:44:00.000+08:002012-01-17T22:25:10.864+08:00Meet Traveler Oma<em>Like it? Share it on Facebook or Twitter!</em><br />
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Our first guest post for 2012 comes from the Land Down Under. It's written by Oma, a free-spirited graduate student currently based in Melbourne, Australia. Oma spent 2 weeks in Sydney and through a little bit of research, persistence and luck, managed to stick to her budget whilst celebrating the holidays in Australia's global city. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MAprhmZgwig/TxVGwPuMs3I/AAAAAAAAAm4/ieEIM24ObVg/s1600/oma_sydney.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="250" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MAprhmZgwig/TxVGwPuMs3I/AAAAAAAAAm4/ieEIM24ObVg/s320/oma_sydney.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This wanderlust knows how to balance comfort, budget and style. </td></tr>
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Oma will share tips on exploring one of the <a href="http://www.mercer.com/press-releases/1311145">most expensive cities in the world</a> as well as some of her impressions of Sydney's attractions. It's definitely one post every Pinoy traveler on a budget will find helpful. Watch out for it this week!</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8BOWlRs9ogA/TxV6ORde4QI/AAAAAAAAAnA/s9laudFpoBg/s1600/sydney+opera+house.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8BOWlRs9ogA/TxV6ORde4QI/AAAAAAAAAnA/s9laudFpoBg/s320/sydney+opera+house.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Requisite photo of Sydney Opera House </td></tr>
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<br /></div>Rainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08420708024847226996noreply@blogger.com0Sydney NSW, Australia-33.873651 151.2068896-33.8868345 151.1871486 -33.860467500000006 151.22663060000002tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7436402682566663162.post-39386133091051580102012-01-10T17:00:00.000+08:002012-01-10T17:00:04.914+08:00Watch out for this Filipino Wanderlust!<i>Like it? Share it on Facebook or Twitter!</i><br />
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If you've been reading my posts since last year, you'd probably notice that aside from travels around the Philippines and local food, I also write about <a href="http://raintravels.blogspot.com/2011/06/round-world-travels-of-hero.html">Jose Rizal</a>. I am an unabashed fan. This doesn't mean I dislike other heroes or think Rizal is better than other Filipino freedom fighters. I like them all so there's no need for picking sides. While many are drawn to Jose Rizal because of his genius and flair for writing, I like the fact that he traveled the world and read a lot. And I believed that his journeys (real and imagined) helped him become the hero that many Filipinos know today.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YN5uDeilEu0/TwvX_2oG4-I/AAAAAAAAAmk/j1t5aZyq2yI/s1600/jose+rizal_lastmoment.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YN5uDeilEu0/TwvX_2oG4-I/AAAAAAAAAmk/j1t5aZyq2yI/s320/jose+rizal_lastmoment.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A hero's last moment.<br /><br /><a name='more'></a></td></tr>
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So you can understand my excitement when I stumbled on this: </div>
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/78t0EcU70nY?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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This is the trailer of the documentary <b>Jose Rizal: The First Hero</b>. It's directed by Paolo Abella and produced by Jourdan Sebastian. According to its <a href="http://joserizalthefirsthero.com/">website</a>, the soon-to-be screened documentary was "Created by a team of young filmmakers dedicated to excellence and backed up by the finest historians with a passion for the truth." From the looks of it, the documentary isn't a romanticized presentation of the life of Rizal. Thus, I can't wait to find out how young people, old folks, and even those who do not know Rizal would react to this film. </div>
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There are no screening dates as of this writing. However, you can check their <a href="https://www.facebook.com/joserizalthefirsthero">Facebook page</a> for updates. And in case you want to learn more about this wanderlust/genius/writer/doctor/hero through traveling, you can refer to these as your guide:</div>
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<a href="http://raintravels.blogspot.com/2011/07/explore-metro-with-hero-lakbay-jose.html">Lakbay Rizal: Metro Manila</a></div>
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<a href="http://raintravels.blogspot.com/2011/07/different-kind-of-pilgrimage-at.html">Lakbay Rizal: Antipolo</a></div>
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<a href="http://raintravels.blogspot.com/2011/11/inside-real-fuerza-de-santiago.html">Rizal Shrine and Prison Cell at Fort Santiago</a> </div>
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<a href="http://raintravels.blogspot.com/2011/07/beauty-at-paco-park.html">Paco Park</a></div>
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You can also see photos of Rizal Park in Manila in this <a href="https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.252517524762167.79057.222829007731019&type=1">album</a>. Rizal Park or Luneta is usually the first stop for people who want to know more about this Philippine National Hero.</div>
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<i>What do you think of the new documentary on Jose Rizal? Would you watch it? </i></div>Rainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08420708024847226996noreply@blogger.com4Rizal Park, Manila, Philippines14.5832504 120.97831114.567883400000001 120.95857000000001 14.5986174 120.998052tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7436402682566663162.post-71632015270690502912012-01-08T00:26:00.000+08:002012-01-09T13:17:38.494+08:00Definitely, It's More Fun in the Philippines!<i>Like it? Share it on Facebook or Twitter!</i><br />
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On the first Friday of 2012, Filipinos took Twitter by storm after the Department of Tourism unveiled <a href="http://www.itsmorefuninthephilippines.com/">"It's More Fun In the Philippines"</a>, the country's slogan for its Philippine Tourism campaign. And while a few individuals preferred to rant than rave (classic case of crab mentality) over the slogan, more people opted to create Internet memes that ranged from hilarious to simply spot on. Here are a few of my favorites:</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KjJG8T0taVk/TwhnhbjOq9I/AAAAAAAAAls/NWVkmJcrZLg/s1600/clark-more-fun-in-the-philippines.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KjJG8T0taVk/TwhnhbjOq9I/AAAAAAAAAls/NWVkmJcrZLg/s320/clark-more-fun-in-the-philippines.jpg" width="282" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Festival<br />
in Clark, Pampanga. (Source: <a href="http://abuggedlife.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/clark-more-fun-in-the-philippines.jpg">A Bugged Life</a>)</td></tr>
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<tr><td><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dwwF0Ya07TY/Twhs4GCV5dI/AAAAAAAAAmM/HW1j2hq4sww/s1600/394242_10150507847612290_501807289_8711456_2000426801_n+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dwwF0Ya07TY/Twhs4GCV5dI/AAAAAAAAAmM/HW1j2hq4sww/s320/394242_10150507847612290_501807289_8711456_2000426801_n+%25281%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Whale Shark Interaction in Donsol, Sorsogon<br />
(Source: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150506686457290.390771.501807289&type=3">Roland Benzon</a>)</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-H4zEYpcX0l0/Twhrw5vcIPI/AAAAAAAAAmE/Kmamy7C_cyM/s1600/397316_204565582970669_100002516852770_444905_1185162045_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-H4zEYpcX0l0/Twhrw5vcIPI/AAAAAAAAAmE/Kmamy7C_cyM/s320/397316_204565582970669_100002516852770_444905_1185162045_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Banaue, Ifugao (Source: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.204565416304019.47520.100002516852770&type=3">Mon Corpuz</a>)</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-z3RbgFmC070/Twht8BvzO4I/AAAAAAAAAmU/2hwj4s0Xqrk/s1600/405709_10150506262557290_501807289_8706116_975793352_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="287" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-z3RbgFmC070/Twht8BvzO4I/AAAAAAAAAmU/2hwj4s0Xqrk/s320/405709_10150506262557290_501807289_8706116_975793352_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Big Lagoon, El Nido, Palawan<br />
(Source: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150506686457290.390771.501807289&type=3">Roland Benzon</a>)</td></tr>
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The buzz created by the new Philippine tourism slogan simply confirmed what I and many visitors to these 7, 107 islands have known all along: That Filipinos have a lot to offer to the world. And though I have been to many places in this country, I must admit there are plenty of amazing attractions I have yet to explore and even more local destinations that I need to rediscover.<br />
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My trips last year whetted my appetite for more local adventures. I hope to cover more ground in Mindanao this year as my trips to Bukidnon, <a href="http://raintravels.blogspot.com/2011/02/day-tour-of-davao.html">Davao</a>, and <a href="http://raintravels.blogspot.com/2011/02/wow-wao.html">Wao </a>made me appreciate the southernmost island's natural wonders and cultural tapestry. In Visayas, I hope to see for myself the old world architecture and fantastic seascape of Iloilo, as friends say it's more fascinating than the charming city of <a href="http://raintravels.blogspot.com/2011/04/bacolod-philipines-charm-and-good-taste.html">Bacolod</a> and <a href="http://raintravels.blogspot.com/2011/05/northern-exposure-enchanted-in-vigan.html">Vigan</a>, which I visited last year. While in Luzon, I hope to explore the northern regions to see more of Cagayan, Batanes, and Benguet. And to make sure I can share with you these adventures, I will make sure to charge my camera's batteries and bring its memory card so I can take photos. This is one travel lesson I learned the hard way last 2011 (and in fact, one reason why I couldn't share about my other trips, boo-hoo). These trips, of course, would mean I have to work harder and spend wisely. Hopefully, work doesn't get in the way of my travels (Oops!).<br />
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<tr><td><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TID-gxhMzHQ/TwkfRpLBUZI/AAAAAAAAAmc/h47aPGwLePE/s1600/341037_10150507979282290_501807289_8711677_900599400_o_thumb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="233" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TID-gxhMzHQ/TwkfRpLBUZI/AAAAAAAAAmc/h47aPGwLePE/s320/341037_10150507979282290_501807289_8711677_900599400_o_thumb.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">See you soon, Callao Caves of Cagayan!<br />
(Source: Roland Benzon)</td></tr>
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I will make sure to attend more festivals this year, too, especially after seeing the <a href="http://raintravels.blogspot.com/2011/11/meet-giants-of-angono-higantes-festival.html">Higantes Festival</a> of Angono. The Filipinos' enthusiasm for life, ebullient spirit and generous hearts double the delight and excitement in every Philippine festival. And all the tasty local treats offered to guests make feasting more fun in the Philippines.<br />
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So check my humble blog regularly for more trips, twists, and turns around the Philippine Islands and support other <a href="http://raintravels.blogspot.com/p/travel-links.html">bloggers</a> as well as we share with you more reasons why you should travel to the Philippines.<br />
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<i>What would you like to see and do in the Philippines this year? </i><br />
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<br /></div>Rainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08420708024847226996noreply@blogger.com2El Nido, Philippines11.2097089 119.462253910.711297400000001 118.83053989999999 11.7081204 120.0939679tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7436402682566663162.post-30650403232120422011-12-28T23:30:00.000+08:002011-12-29T02:30:49.963+08:00Where to Spend New Year's Eve in the Philippines<i>Like it? Share it on Facebook or Twitter!</i><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OcrZGDAK8go/TvtfbKHKRJI/AAAAAAAAAlk/_mM7pDgqlsk/s1600/new+year.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="249" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OcrZGDAK8go/TvtfbKHKRJI/AAAAAAAAAlk/_mM7pDgqlsk/s320/new+year.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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The beautiful Philippine Islands may not have the remarkable fireworks display at the Sydney Harbour Bridge, the colorful New Year's Day Parade of London or the amazing New Year's Eve party of New York City. The country, however, has a variety of activities to celebrate New Year's Eve as it's a public holiday. Here are some of the best places to welcome 2012 in the Philippines:</div>
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<tr><td><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-F9kJNpQz5EY/TvtGtbDO8XI/AAAAAAAAAlM/9MrYHz7KMMc/s1600/christmas+bora.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="181" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-F9kJNpQz5EY/TvtGtbDO8XI/AAAAAAAAAlM/9MrYHz7KMMc/s320/christmas+bora.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Let Boracay's sea and sand greet you during the New Year.</td></tr>
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1. <b>Boracay Island, Aklan Province - New Year's Eve Beach Party</b></div>
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Welcome the New Year on the white shores of Boracay and enjoy a different kind of celebration where you can eat, drink, get a tattoo, swim, watch fire dancers, listen and groove to cool music from international DJs and live bands, and do many things that you otherwise can't enjoy when you celebrate in the city.</div>
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If you want more private celebration, you could join either the New Year's eve party at <a href="http://www.prlog.org/11752146-welcome-to-carnaval-discovery-shores-boracays-new-year-celebration.html">Discovery Shores Boracay</a> or at <a href="http://www.shangri-la.com/en/property/boracay/boracayresort">Shangri-La's Boracay Resort and Spa</a>. </div>
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<tr><td><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1_Hy-cLyfRg/TvshAKUpx5I/AAAAAAAAAk0/RMHtIbRI5z0/s1600/makati+new+year+countdown.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1_Hy-cLyfRg/TvshAKUpx5I/AAAAAAAAAk0/RMHtIbRI5z0/s320/makati+new+year+countdown.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Makati's New Year Countdown is back!</td></tr>
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2. <b>Makati City, Metro Manila - New Year's Eve Countdown</b></div>
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The spectacular New Year's eve countdown of the city of Makati returns after a 2-year hiatus. Once again, the intersection of Ayala Avenue and Makati Avenue will be closed to traffic as residents and guests welcome the New Year with a bang through the "Magical, Musical Makati". Live musical performances, a magic show, and an amazing pyro-musical display at the stroke of 12 midnight are just some of the activities in store for residents and guests. If you don't want to hang out with the crowd, you can enjoy a pleasant New Year's Eve dinner at any restaurant in <i>Greenbelt</i> then catch the Inspire Fireworks Display or go to any of these luxury hotels in the Central Business District for their New Year's eve parties (reservation's a must): </div>
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<a href="http://www.dusit.com/dusit-thani/en/dusit-thani-manila-latest-news/1005-welcome-2012-at-dusit-thani-manila.html">Dusit Thani Manila's New Year's Eve Countdown Party</a> </div>
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For reservations, contact 238-8888. </div>
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<a href="http://www.shangri-la.com/en/property/manila/makatishangrila">Makati Shangri-La's New Year's Eve Gala Dinner</a></div>
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Contact Shangri La's Restaurant Reservations and Information Center at 840-0884. </div>
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<a href="http://www.mandarinoriental.com/manila/images/momnl_brochure_xmas.pdf">Mandarin Oriental's New Year's Eve Countdown and Celebration at Martinis</a></div>
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Call 750-8888 for details.</div>
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<a href="http://www.peninsula.com/Manila/en/Enticements/Sparkle_Gala_Ball/default.aspx">Peninsula Manila's Sparkle Gala Ball</a></div>
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For reservations, call 887-2888.</div>
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Take note that traffic will be rerouted in Makati as early as December 29 in preparation for the New Year's Eve countdown. Check the traffic scheme <a href="http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=302731663098836&set=a.139356889436315.14839.135621806476490&type=1&theater">here</a>. </div>
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3. <b>Barangay Santolan, Pasig City, Metro Manila - Pakalog Festival</b><br />
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If you want to witness community spirit on New Year's Eve, head to Evangelista Street in Barangay Santolan, Pasig City for the annual Pakalog Festival. Residents and guests gather for a public feast, street dancing, and fireworks display. Expect a lot of noise from firecrackers as well as lots of lechon (roasted suckling pig) which one can enjoy for free. </div>
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<tr><td><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uccCUij7kHU/TSfwiTIqrvI/AAAAAAAAAAg/GTtpG63Sybg/s1600/Photo-0114.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uccCUij7kHU/TSfwiTIqrvI/AAAAAAAAAAg/GTtpG63Sybg/s320/Photo-0114.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">The Dancing Fountain at the Central Lagoon of Rizal Park.</td></tr>
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4. <b>Rizal Park, Manila - Cheers to 2012! </b><br />
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The refurbishing of Rizal Park has made it one of the best places to celebrate the holidays for families and individuals who wish to break away from the tradition of welcoming the New Year at home. Bring your picnic mat and basket as the celebration will start by 7:00 p.m. There will be a free screening of movies at the park's open auditorium. There will also be live band performances from Imago, Sandwich, as well as a spectacular fireworks display at the Central Lagoon area.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LSXlL9t6oAM/TvtFFwztZyI/AAAAAAAAAlA/-PAoUTN9EfI/s1600/christmas9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LSXlL9t6oAM/TvtFFwztZyI/AAAAAAAAAlA/-PAoUTN9EfI/s320/christmas9.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Eastwood City</td></tr>
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5<b>. Eastwood City, Libis, Quezon City- </b> <b>New Year Countdown 2012</b><br />
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See the grand fireworks display and the dazzling ball drop at Eastwood City's Open Park. The event starts as early as 6:00 p.m. Expect exciting performances from celebrities like Billy Crawford, Philippine All Stars, the Dawn, and Mr. Pure Energy Gary Valenciano, who will lead the countdown. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ltiZlB3th8U/TvtLfUdxnWI/AAAAAAAAAlY/O7arA9cKzUA/s1600/bacolod5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ltiZlB3th8U/TvtLfUdxnWI/AAAAAAAAAlY/O7arA9cKzUA/s320/bacolod5.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Expect a water fireworks display and more at Bacolod's <br />New Year's Eve party.<br /></td></tr>
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6. <b>Bacolod City, Negros Occidental - Countdown to a Great Year: Bacolod Welcomes 2012</b></div>
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<span style="text-align: justify;">This is the first time that the City of Smiles, <a href="http://raintravels.blogspot.com/2011/04/bacolod-philipines-charm-and-good-taste.html">Bacolod</a>, will welcome the New Year with a grand celebration led by the local government. The city's New Year's Eve Party will be held at the grounds of the Bacolod City Government Center and will start as early as 6 p.m. of December 31. A program featuring the MassKara dancers, a lights show, food festival, and a grand fireworks display are just some of the things that people can look forward to as Bacolod seeks to be the country's New Year's Eve Capital.</span></div>
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7. <b>Davao City, Davao - New Year's Eve Party and Fun Run</b><br />
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If you don't like the noise that comes with New Year's eve celebrations, then head to <a href="http://raintravels.blogspot.com/2011/02/day-tour-of-davao.html">Davao City</a> which has consistently found ways to usher the beginning of another year without lighting firecrackers. To welcome 2012, a grand party will be held at Roxas Avenue with live music, games, a 5 kilometer fun run, and other exciting activities. The party will start as early as 5:30 p.m. and will last until midnight. </div>
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Aside from these places, you can go to the Seaside Boulevard of <a href="http://smmallofasia.com/moa/?p=1097">SM Mall of Asia</a> in Pasay City for the Countdown to 2012: The GMA New Year Special. The event will start at 10 p.m. and will feature local TV personalities. Not to be outdone, Power Plant Mall will have their <a href="http://www.powerplantmall.com/event_article.php?id=20">31 to 1: 100% New Year Party</a> at Rockwell, Makati City in partnership with Smart and TV 5. </div>
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<i>So, where will you be celebrating New Year's eve? </i><br />
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<br />Rainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08420708024847226996noreply@blogger.com0Ayala Ave, Makati City, Philippines14.55475789703072 121.0241031646728514.54707339703072 121.01423266467285 14.56244239703072 121.03397366467286tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7436402682566663162.post-55836597579634319522011-12-27T16:33:00.000+08:002011-12-27T16:35:21.238+08:00Not Just Balisong: Batangas City's Holiday Attraction<i>Like it? Share it on Facebook or Twitter!</i><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OQYuEJ_JwvQ/TvmBbvc1hzI/AAAAAAAAAko/1S7Crfb8olE/s1600/christmas8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OQYuEJ_JwvQ/TvmBbvc1hzI/AAAAAAAAAko/1S7Crfb8olE/s320/christmas8.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shepherds and wise meen seek Jesus. </td></tr>
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I was fortunate to spend the holidays in Batangas City, the capital of Batangas province in Luzon, Philippines. Batangas, which is well-known for its Kapeng Barako (Liberica coffee) and balisong (fan knives), draws a lot of visitors this holiday season because of its animated show on the birth of Jesus Christ. The life-sized nativity scene is set in front of the Batangas City Hall's Administration building, just across Plaza Mabini. It narrates the events leading to the Savior's birth and the wise men's search for Jesus. </div>
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Even if you're not a Christian, you'll find this animated Christmas display amazing. Here's a short clip of the show:</div>
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<object class="BLOGGER-picasa-video" classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0" data-thumbnail-src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-NRmSMQHpXvM/Tvl90EoEgCI/AAAAAAAAAkA/gVUkm5NRva4/s1600/P1030085.MOV" height="266" width="320"><param name="movie" value="http://video.google.com/googleplayer.swf?videoUrl=http%3A%2F%2Fv1.nonxt2.googlevideo.com%2Fvideoplayback%3Fid%3D87237bc8a4c3a8cf%26itag%3D18%26source%3Dpicasa%26ip%3D0.0.0.0%26ipbits%3D0%26expire%3D1324995121%26sparams%3Did%2Citag%2Csource%2Cip%2Cipbits%2Cexpire%26signature%3D45041DF656062E12989FEA8998A1F76E008D190B.B1FA24E0B602524FFC21B6E4EECF0CF7B05C0AF3%26key%3Dlh1" />
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<span style="text-align: justify;">And once you're done watching the show, you can enjoy the Christmas lights and displays at Plaza Mabini, buy some really affordable treats at the holiday bazaar, and try some street food and local delicacies at the hawker stalls near the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BW4FjnoARYk/Tvl_-B9js9I/AAAAAAAAAkQ/cfj_aQltzK8/s1600/christmas6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BW4FjnoARYk/Tvl_-B9js9I/AAAAAAAAAkQ/cfj_aQltzK8/s320/christmas6.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The lights at Plaza Mabini. </td></tr>
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The Nativity Show runs every night from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. It will conclude on January 15, during the annual fiesta of Batangas City. Make sure to catch it before the New Year!</div>
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<br />Rainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08420708024847226996noreply@blogger.com0Batangas City, Philippines13.7572111 121.058111113.633826099999999 120.90018260000001 13.8805961 121.2160396tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7436402682566663162.post-46861773913733876442011-12-24T21:26:00.001+08:002011-12-24T21:29:06.746+08:005 Must-See Christmas Attractions In the City<i>Like it? Share it on Facebook or Twitter!</i><br />
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Stuck in the city this holiday season? Don't fret! There are various Christmas attractions you can see here in Metro Manila. And if you have friends or relatives visiting from abroad, here are some of the must-see holiday attractions in the city:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0KK_QqAClkg/TvW_SzM2fvI/AAAAAAAAAjk/wuP_f3m_QIE/s1600/christmas1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="207" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0KK_QqAClkg/TvW_SzM2fvI/AAAAAAAAAjk/wuP_f3m_QIE/s400/christmas1.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Animated "Paskong Pinoy" lights display at Bangko Sentral. </td></tr>
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1. <b>Roxas Boulevard, Manila</b><br />
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Drive along Roxas Boulevard in Manila to see the colorful Christmas lights display on different buildings, particularly the animated display at Bangko Sentral Pilipinas and the bright lanterns at the Cultural Center of the Philippines. And while you're in the City of Manila, don't forget to drop by <a href="http://raintravels.blogspot.com/2011/01/rediscovering-rizal-park-manila-musical.html">Rizal Park</a> to see the park's Dancing Fountain and colorful Christmas decors. Then catch the first <a href="http://www.manilaoceanpark.com/news.php?id=233&l=indexnews">Penguin Talk Show</a> in the Philippines at <a href="http://raintravels.blogspot.com/2011/01/lights-sounds-and-wonder.html">Manila Ocean Park</a>, just behind Quirino Grandstand.</div>
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2.<b> Eastwood City, Libis Quezon City</b><br />
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Eastwood city has pockets of wonder that will surely delight families and the young at heart. There's a dancing fountain, a giant Christmas tree, brightly colored lanterns, and a Christmas Village. among many others. The variety of restaurants serving local, international, or fusion cuisine, plus a holiday bazaar make also make visit to Eastwood worthwhile. </div>
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By the way, on December 25, Eastwood has a Christmas Carol show at 6 p.m. and on December 31, there'll be a New Year's Eve Countdown starting at 6 p.m. with Gary Valenciano, Billy Crawford, and The Dawn. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gZcoQb-5dG4/TvW_fGOcjOI/AAAAAAAAAjs/GY8dUnA0Naw/s1600/christmas3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gZcoQb-5dG4/TvW_fGOcjOI/AAAAAAAAAjs/GY8dUnA0Naw/s320/christmas3.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This Christmas tree is just one of the<br />
attractions at Eastwood.</td></tr>
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3. <b>Ayala Triangle Gardens, Makati City</b><br />
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Everyday, from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Ayala Triangle Gardens holds the Symphony of Lights and Sounds show. The spectacle of lights and sounds happens every hour and will last until December 30. The show isn't the only thing to catch at the gardens, too. Make sure to enjoy a good meal or a cup of good coffee at <a href="http://raintravels.blogspot.com/2011/05/must-visit-in-makati-ayala-triangle.html">Ayala Triangle's restaurants and cafes</a>. </div>
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Watch this Symphony of Lights and Sounds every night </div>
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at the Ayala Triangle Gardens. </div>
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4. <b>Araneta Center, Cubao, Quezon City</b><br />
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Don't just head to Cubao to watch the <a href="http://www.aranetacenter.net/2008/08events.php#disney">Disney On Ice</a> show at the Smart Araneta Center. Take time to see the life-sized Nativity scene, the tall Christmas tree, and the bright Christmas light displays surrounding Araneta. There's also an amazing fireworks display every Friday to Sunday at 7 p.m. And if you are up to it, why not ride Araneta's eco-friendly Green and Go shuttles (from Ali Mall to Gateway Mall and vice versa) to enjoy the sights around Araneta Center. </div>
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<tr><td><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EX10AbyMVE8/TvXAGnRB7ZI/AAAAAAAAAj0/L1fAc7Rlnnk/s1600/christmas2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EX10AbyMVE8/TvXAGnRB7ZI/AAAAAAAAAj0/L1fAc7Rlnnk/s320/christmas2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Take a photo before this large poinsettia at Araneta Center.</td></tr>
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5. <b>Meralco's Liwanag Park, Ortigas Avenue, Pasig City</b><br />
Make the most of the opportunity to get inside the Meralco compound which is open to the public during the Christmas season. The city's electricity provider allows visitors to come in for free and see their brightly lit Christmas trees, houses and humongous belen. There's also an electric train ride that the kids will surely enjoy! <br />
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Video of the opening of Meralco's Liwanag Park<br />
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Also worth seeing are the Christmas lights and sounds display at Greenhills Shopping Center at San Juan, Greenhills and the Christmas-tree project at Dusit Thani Manila, Makati City (see photos of last year's exhibit <a href="https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.326586997355219.95121.222829007731019&type=3">here</a>).<br />
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<i>Hope you'll enjoy seeing these attractions!</i> <i>Merry Christmas, everyone! </i>Rainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08420708024847226996noreply@blogger.com2Roxas Blvd, Manila, Philippines14.5709312 120.982115914.5555632 120.9623749 14.586299200000001 121.00185689999999