Going Places

Travel Memories: Fly High on Summertime!

2012-02-12T14:14:00.009+08:00

The heat wave is slowly breezing in the air. The sun is starting to cast heat rays. The weather is starting to be hot. And days are becoming longer than nights. Can you feel it? It’s in the air... Its Summertime!!! Here in Going Places, mid-February is the start of Summer 2012. Its a celebration because Summer is the perfect time to travel. I think everyone will agree with me on this. Summertime has the perfect weather to travel. No rains and moonsoons most of the time in this period, so it is no wonder why most people prefer to travel during this time from February to May. Even the colors jives in summertime. Cerulean blue, yellow, bright green and orange – all colors of summer that I’m starting to see vividly every summertime. This year, I am looking forward for a very exciting summer and a great summer getaway. And hopefully spent in great places perfect to fly high on summertime!

I think giving a jump is not enough to celebrate summer! I think this time, its time to fly high to celebrate summer! It is the perfect way to celebrate it, right? Just like the way I seem to fly when I reached the peak of mountain hiking in Real Cove Resort, Antipolo, Rizal last Summer 2011. Learn more about my Summer 2011 – here.

----------------------------------------------------------

Travel Memories is a snapshot photo in my travels where one picture don't only goes as a memorable perfect travel postcard photo but also evokes a vivid memory of a happy, unforgettable and great travel experience.

Bangkok by Boat

2012-02-01T16:14:00.005+08:00

Viewing sights from the river barges’ perspective is the perfect way to sightsee Bangkok in a nutshell. Nothing can compare to the experience of fresh air breezing on your skin while enjoying the unique oriental attractions of Bangkok. Or enjoying a sumptuous dinner while on a slow river cruise. Life in Bangkok has always centered around the Chao Phraya River. It is on these banks where life of the city is sprouting and blooming like the unstoppable flow of river. But it also on these river where the city’s major attraction are to be found.

The Chao Phraya River and the mega-structure Bhumibol Bridge.

The Chao Phraya River is a major river in Thailand, with its low alluvial plain forming the centre of the country. It runs through Bangkok and then empties into the Gulf of Thailand. The Chao Phraya begins at the confluence of the Ping and Nan rivers at Nakhon Sawan (also called Pak Nam Pho) in Nakhon Sawan province. The major bridges that cross the Chao Phraya are in the province of Bangkok: the Rama VI rail-road bridge; Phra Pin-klao near the Grand Palace; Rama VIII, a single tower asymmetrical cable-stayed bridge; Rama IX, a semi-symmetric cable-stayed bridge; and Mega Bridge, part of the Industrial Ring Road. In Bangkok, the Chao Phraya River is a major transportation artery for a vast network of river buses, cross-river ferries and water taxis, also known as longtails. More than 15 boat lines operate on the rivers and canals of the city, including commuter lines. (Source)

Nineteenth-century Bangkok was laced with canals, giving the capital the designation ‘Venice of the East’ by European visitors. Surviving canals, and the Chao Phraya River provide memorable vignettes of traditional waterborne way-of-life that has remained essentially unchanged over the centuries. Nowadays, even though Bangkok has become a modern city, the Chao Phraya River as well as the canals are still charming for whoever wishes to seek the peaceful atmosphere amidst bustling Bangkok. The river and canals are now conveniently explored by chartered boat or cruise.

A Chao Phraya River cruise gives visitors an easy access to its major attractions. It offers some of the capital’s most arresting sights, particularly at night when the weather is cooler and light reflections bestow the river with flickering lights. A cruise along the legendary Chao Phraya River, and some canals on the Thonburi side is the most pleasant way to explore the city. The majestic charm of Chao Phraya is a must-experienced when in Bangkok. The Chao Phraya River makes a great way to get around, since many of the major tourist sites are easily accessible from the river. Chao Praya River Express operates a regular boat service up and down the river. They are like buses on the water. The fares are extremely cheap and you can get just about anywhere for 10 Baht or less.

The shadowed spires of Wat Arun over Chao Phraya River.

One of those attractions is Wat Arun or Temple of the Dawn. Named after Aruna, the Indian God of Dawn, the Wat Arun is considered one of the most well known of Thailand's many landmarks. The temple is so named because the first light of the morning reflects off the surface of the temple with pearly iridescence. The monastery has existed for many years since the days when Ayutthaya was capital of Thailand. Walking around the temple gardens and looking at it from a distance is free, but if you want to enter the temple compound and climb the steep stairs, it costs a fee. The magnificent main prang (temple spire) is in Thai called the Phra Prang Wat Arun. Overlooking the Chao Phraya river, it is not only the symbol of Thonburi, but a world-famous landmark and one of the most photographed icons of Thailand. The prang was originally built during the Ayutthaya Period and is in a classic Ayutthayan style. It is easily accessible with a ferry boat from Wat Pho in Rattanakosin. Ferries take off about every 10 to 15 minutes and operates daily from 6:00 am to 10:00 in the evening.

The Grand Palace of Bangkok.

Imitating the guarding demon Yakhas at Grand Palace.

Another accessible attraction near the river is the Grand Palace and it much revered temple, Wat Phra Kaew or known as Temple of the Emerald Buddha. Grand Palace is a historical site of temples and palaces of Thailand as well as the former administrative seat of the government. A visit to the complex will let you appreciate the unique Thai architecture and history. I am amazed in each architectural designs of the structures inside the Grand Palace. Each seems to be laid with jewels and gold! The beautiful pattern designs are hard to duplicate. The single color that always caught your attention is gold. The only color that dominates each temple and palace. That’s why in Grand Palace, everything is gleaming in gold! This visit also lets you visit one of the most beautifully designed temple in the country, the Wat Phra Kaew or Temple of the Emerald Buddha. The emerald buddha found inside the center throne of the temple is considered one of the most sacred Buddha image in the country. From afar it looks like a piece of treasure but for the Buddhist devotees, it is a sacred image of their faith.

The Emerald Buddha inside Wat Phra Kaew.

Another accessible attraction via river boat is River City. It is Bangkok's oldest antique mall, and still the best destination for serious Asian art lovers to go. It has a few souvenir shops and an absolutely stunning array of Asian art on display for sale. From old maps to Buddhist works to more recent everyday items from the last century, River City is a great place to browse Asian art. The easiest way to get there is to take their free boat from the Taksin Bridge pier, below the Skytrain station. Most riverside hotels will also take you to the mall in their boats.

The Royal Barges Museum is also accessible via Chao Phra River. On the mouth of the Bangkok Noi canal, this museum displays several Royal Barges used for state ceremonies on the Chao Phraya River. The ornately carved barges take the form of famous mythical creatures from the Ramayana epic. The most impressive is the Suppanahong (or Golden Swan), which was built in 1911 during the reign of King Rama IV. This 46-metre craft was carved from one single piece of teakwood. The bow resembles a mythical swan and is adorned with gold lacquer and glass jewels. The best way to get to the museum is by boat. If you take the regular Express Boat service, the nearest stop is Pinklao Bridge Pier, although this involves a long winding walk along a narrow concrete walkway over the swampy land.

One of the Royal Barges in the museum.

A cruise along the Chao Phraya River might let you see one of the most beautiful bridge and a real architectural wonder in Bangkok. This mega-structure is the Bhumibol Bridge also known as the Industrial Ring Road Bridge. It is part of the 13 km long Industrial Ring Road connecting southern Bangkok with Samut Prakan Province. The bridge crosses the Chao Phraya River twice, with two striking cable-stayed spans of lengths of 702 meters and 582 meters supported by two diamond-shaped pylons 173 meters and 164 meters high. Where the two spans meet, another road rises to join them at a free-flowing interchange suspended 50 metres above the ground. According to tradition, all the bridges over the Chao Phraya in Bangkok are named after a member of the Royal Family. In October 2009, it was announced that both bridges would be named after King Bhumibol Adulyadej, with the northern bridge officially named "Bhumibol 1 Bridge" and the southern bridge "Bhumibol 2 Bridge". The unofficial name "Mega Bridge" was also widely used. (Source)

Bhumibol Bridge over Chao Phraya River.

Life is so alive in Chao Phraya River. It is in the river one will see Bangkok’s different side as a vibrant oriental city. It is in the banks of the river one will see how it plays a major role in urban and modern life of the city. Be it for for transportation or for livelihood. But for me, nothing beats the experience of the breeze of fresh air while enjoying the scenic sights of Bangkok on a river cruise. It could be romantic. Yes. But it can also be fun and way for discovery. The water of Chao Phraya may not be crystal clear or murky-free and sometimes it overflows causing floods in its surroundings but a lot of Thai and visitors benefit from its life-bringing tide and flow.

-----------------------------------------------------------------

Bangkok by Boat is part of my Thailand's Amazing Smiles series where I share my wonderful trip to the land of amazing smiles last October 25-28, 2011. I made this article out of a vision of experiencing Chao Phraya River cruise because during my visit I haven't try a river cruise because of the flood in Chao Phraya that authorities suspend cruising on it for safety measures. For a helpful trip to Bangkok visit Bangkok for Visitors website for more information. You might also like the other parts of the series: (More links coming soon)

Exploring Bangkok on a Tuktuk
Everything is Gold in Bangkok
A Bowl of Thailand
The Charming Canals of Ratchaburi
The Royal Orchids of Thailand
Siam Elephant Encounter made me Smile
Pratunam's Irresistible Bargains
360 Degree of Bangkok from the Sky
Suvarnabhumi Airport: Thailand's mega-structure

A Bowl of Thailand

2012-01-25T11:14:00.007+08:00

Eating in Thailand is like eating the best of Asia! Thai cuisine is often considered as one of the best cuisine of Asia. Interesting spices and unique flavors make it deliciously craving like no other. So I wouldn’t pass if I will given an opportunity to have a bowl or plate of Thai food.

The best way to discover the taste of Thai cuisine is definitely in its street foods. It is in the street foods of Bangkok you’ll get to taste the real bowl or plate of Thailand. Most ingredients are authentic and uniquely recipes. Any visitor would find these street foods delicious and clean. Yes, since street foods is very popular to locals and tourists, vendors make sure that every tools used in cooking and storage of the food is cleaned and well-maintained. Sold street foods do not just limited to their famous dish Phad Thai (a dish of stir-fried rice noodles with eggs, fish sauce, tamarind juice, red chili pepper, plus any combination of bean sprouts, shrimp, chicken, or tofu, garnished with crushed peanuts, coriander and lime, the juice of which can be added along with Thai condiments) but also ranges to fruits, shakes, pancakes, roasted meat or fish and noodles. Phad Thai is listed at number 5 on World's 50 most delicious foods readers' poll compiled by CNN Go in 2011. Nowadays, Pad Thai has become a widespread staple food and is one of Thailand's national dishes. And if you don’t know what to try to eat first, just follow the standard rule of travel foodie – follow where the locals eat.

Tom Yum - an authentic bowl of Thailand!

You'll love Khao Phat

Warning, if you’re not a fan of spicy foods then Thai cuisine is not for you as most of the dishes are spicy or mixed with chilies suited only for a spicy-craving tongue. Even their condiments for spicy dishes is spicy too like fish sauce with chili seeds or rinds. But do not fret, Thai cuisines is not just all about spicy hot servings. It has sweet servings too! Actually it has various cuisines that you can choose and find the one that suit your taste. So taking a food trip in Thailand is fun at all since Thai food has something for every travel foodie.

Blending elements of several Southeast Asian traditions, Thai cooking places emphasis on lightly prepared dishes with strong aromatic components. The spiciness of Thai cuisine is well known. Thai food is known for its balance of three to four fundamental taste senses in each dish or the overall meal: sour, sweet, salty, and sometimes bitter. Thai food is often served with a variety of sauces (nam chim) and condiments. These may include phrik nam pla/nam pla phrik (consisting of fish sauce, lime juice, chopped chilies and garlic), dried chili flakes, sweet chili sauce, sliced chili peppers in rice vinegar, sriracha sauce, or a spicy chili sauce or paste called nam phrik. How spicy their condiments already! Cucumber is sometimes eaten to cool the mouth after particularly spicy dishes.

Khao Phat - a popular rice dish in Thailand.

My first taste of Thai cuisine was a rice dish called Khao Phat. It is a common fried rice dish in Thailand, fried rice usually with chicken, beef, shrimp, pork or crab and with eggs, onion, garlic, tomatoes and seasonings mixed and stirred in. The dish is plated and served with accompaniments like cucumber slices, tomato slices, lime and sprigs of green onion. It is also very tasty. They are popularly called as “Fried rice” in Bangkok streets and comically pronounce as “Playd lays” by the locals. I think I’m really a rice foodie since I become addicted to this Thai dish since my first taste of it. On three occasions I ate this dish, it taste delicious and full of flavor. It has hints of spiciness as well as crunchiness because of meat and vegetable mixture. This Thai dish is perfect even without viand because of its meaty and egg content. The perfect condiment for this rice dish is a fish sauce with or without chili rind or seed.

After a city tour of Bangkok, a perfect way to continue discovering the country is trying its local cuisines. So it was a perfect timing when our tour guide and Tuktuk driver, Dalin brought us to a seafood restaurant in Bangkok which he said is the best in the city. I was clueless what to local dish to order first but the pictured menu booklet and Dalin helped us. We ordered Khao Phat again but we also tried other dish like the Tom Yum Seafood which I highly recommended and Kai phat met mamuang himmaphan or Stir-fried chicken with cashew nuts.

The bowl of Tom Yum Seafood that I won't forget!

Tom Yum Seafood is one of the Thai cuisine I won’t forget! It is a hot & sour soup with meat. With shrimp it is called Tom yam goong or Tom yam kung (Thai: ต้มยำกุ้ง), with seafood (typically shrimp, squid, fish) Tom yam thale (Thai: ต้มยำทะเล), with chicken Tom yam kai (Thai: ต้มยำไก่). The spicy hot soup mixed with gingerly sweet taste was heavenly taste in my tounge! The vegetables and mushrooms (straw mushrooms was used) were tender and fish meat was very tasty. Tom Yum is cooked with strong ginger and rich sweet flavor combined with spiciness of different herbs and spices. The rich flavor with a hint of spiciness, sourness and sweetness may discourage one from trying the dish but eventually you’ll learn to love it slowly that you won’t notice sipping the soup after soup just what I experienced. Later I learned that Tom Yum is characterized by its distinct hot and sour flavors, with fragrant herbs generously used in the broth. The basic broth is made of stock and fresh ingredients such as lemon grass, kaffir lime leaves, galangal, lime juice, fish sauce and crushed chili peppers.

Kai phat met mamuang himmaphan or Stir-fried chicken with cashew nuts.

Then I had a Stir-fried chicken with cashew nuts (or Kai phat met mamuang himmaphan in Thai). What I like about this dish is the mix of cashew nuts’crunchiness to the chicken. Its hot and spicy but also has a hint of sweetness in it. This cuisine is composed of chicken meat as the main ingredient with cuts of red and green bell pepper. It’s saucey spicy mixture and flavor is intensed by dried chillies mixed in it.

A popular street foods sold in the streets of Bangkok aside from Khao Phat and Phad Thai are are fruit stalls of sliced pineapple, guava, papaya and watermelon. I’ve tried these sliced fruits and most of the time they are fresh, stored in a clean storage and practically in almost every street corners. I also did try eating hotdogs and grilled pork in sticks on stalls. Don’t worry to try these street foods in Thailand as the reason why they are popular is because aside from being cheap and readily available everywhere, vendors store the foods in clean trays and uses cleaned cooking tools.

The unique violet corn sold as street food in Bangkok.

One of the things that surprised me in exploring Thai street food is a violet colored corn being sold in the street side stalls. It is tasty just like the yellow one but the fascinating things about it is the color of the corm which is new and unique to me. Also after taking a canal tour in Ratchaburi, another street food that is quite familiar to me but with a twist is the Coconut Ice Cream. Their coconut ice cream version is not just being sold in ordinary cups but served on empty coconut shells with a choice of two various toppings. I tried pandan jelly ans cashew nuts toppings for my servings. The coconut shell made me feel the authentic taste of the coconut ice cream. It is an enjoyable treat under Thailand’s hot and sunny weather.

Coconut Ice Cream topped with pandan jellies and cashew nuts perfect for hot weather.

Earlier that morning in Ratchaburi, I already had Kannom Krok, a sample of Thai traditional breakfast treat courtesy of tour guide in the canal tour who let us try the dessert. Kannom Krok can be loosely translated into English as Coconut Pudding. It is made of coconut milk and ground rice mixed with inside choice garnished of pumpkin, spring onion leaves or sweet corn cooked in a pan over a charcoal fire. You can find them in most places around Thailand with the same basic recipe. The dessert taste is so sweet and I especially liked the sweet corn garnish with bits of corn in the middle of the dessert.

The sweet Kannom Krok at Ratchaburi.

Describing Kannom Krok at the stall for visitors.

Enjoying our bowl and plate of Thailand.

I generally enjoyed Thai cuisines even though most of them were spicy. I like spicy foods occasionally. Yet most of the cuisines are appealing to palate and very tasty. Not to mentioned most of them are cheap and easy to find – in the street side of course! I really enjoyed eating Khao Phat, Kannom Krok and Coconut ice cream with toppings. But the best Thai food I tasted on this trip is the Tom Yum Seafood! For me, it was genuinely Thai in flavor and taste. I find their various cuisines suited to any tongue of a foodie addict on a travel as Thai cuisines has something for everyone. True to what I heard that eating in Thailand is eating the best of Asia because just a bowl of Tom Yum is an authentic taste of a bowl of Thailand.

-----------------------------------------------------------------

A Bowl of Thailand is part of my Thailand's Amazing Smiles series where I share my wonderful trip to the land of amazing smiles last October 25-28, 2011. For a helpful trip to Bangkok visit Bangkok for Visitors website for more information. You might also like the other parts of the series: (Links coming soon)

Exploring Bangkok on a Tuktuk
Everything is Gold in Bangkok
Bangkok by Boat
The Charming Canals of Ratchaburi
The Royal Orchids of Thailand
Siam Elephant Encounter made me Smile
Pratunam's Irresistible Bargains
360 Degree of Bangkok from the Sky
Suvarnabhumi Airport: Thailand's mega-structure

Everything is MORE FUN in the Philippines!

2012-01-16T17:39:00.007+08:00

It is a great start of the year for the Philippine tourism to have a new and refreshing slogan to promote it as a destination of choice for world travelers with "It's more fun in the Philippines" campaign. It is also a great start of the year for the travel industry and travel enthusiast as the Philippines has been a long time didn't carry a new tourism slogan to boost its promotion and marketing since the WOW campaign.

For me, it is also a great start of the year to see Philippine tourism with a different outlook and an engaging slogan that is simple but very true to the country's characteristic and pride. Its a good job for the Department of Tourism as the campaign is warmly received and liked in Internet social media and networking sites like blogs, Twitter, You Tube and Facebook. Almost everyone is tweeting it and put it on their shouts. Some made their own promotional videos uploaded on You Tube and share their own version of local tourism photos with the slogan on it in Facebook walls. Its trending until now. On my part, I also made shouts and tweets including sharing of "more fun" videos and photos and now a special blog entry about it.

The new slogan and logo of Department of the Philippines. This is the international campaign.

The slogan has something for everyone.Tourism Secretary Ramon Jimenez defended the slogan by tweeting, “The line isn’t a manufactured slogan. It’s simply the truth about our country. Don’t be swayed by people who are trying to punch holes in it.” I agree. The slogan is flexible where every Filipinos can have fun on it. It says a simple truth about our country, places, activities, food, history, culture, etc. I find the phrase simply catchy yet refreshing to attract everyone. Plus the colorful imposing of colors on the Harabara font and on the map logo of the country that depicts a symbolic "banig" denotes a true spirit of Filipino that whenever you go around the country it is the Filipinos' smile and hospitality that makes any holiday stay here unforgettable.

The domestic slogan. The hashtag is very social media friendly!

As a travel blogger that promotes the Philippines as a destination of choice, I support DOT's campaign. I like the new slogan as everyone can have fun on it. Here's my version of "It more fun in the Philippines" photos captured in some of my travels around the country:

White Beach, Station 1, Boracay.

Dinner resto at Alona Beach, Panglao Island, Bohol.

Boracay Island, Malay, Aklan.

Experience it in Davao!

Perfect in Boracay!

Lechon in Cebu is definitely more fun!

Puerto Galera, Oriental Mindoro.

Bolinao, Pangasinan.

Solomon's Paradise in Bolinao.

A mountain view of Antipolo, Rizal.

Virgin Island sandbar, Bohol.

Chocolate Hills in Carmen, Bohol.

Hundred Islands National Park, Alaminos City, Pangasinan.

A variety of Waling-waling in Davao City.


*Alona Beach, Panglao Island, Bohol.*

Quezon Island, Alaminos, Pangasinan.

Philippine Tarsiers of Bohol.

Patar Beach, Bolinao, Pangasinan.

Taal Volcano and Taal Lake in Tagaytay, Cavite.

Here are some interesting promo ads shared and made by Facebook users that I saw. Some are "kulit" ad.

Finally, a video compilation of photos with the slogan from a You Tube user shared on Facebook.

Don't you agree? Everything is more fun in the Philippines! Learn more about It's more fun in the Philippines here.

Flow of Lights

2011-12-30T13:44:00.011+08:00

The play of colorful lights at the 84th floor Revolving Rooftop Deck of Baiyoke Sky Hotel in Bangkok reminds me the colorful display of Christmas lights seen in every houses or buildings in the country and fireworks that lit up the skies on the eve of New Year. This year has been a great year of travel for me again, just like last year. And just like these flow of colorful lights that are bright and cheerful, there were a lot of bright things that "flowed " to me this year. Like celebrating the 3rd year of my blog, promoting more the campaign of Green Travel, travel on my birthday and of course the travels to different places in which I gain a lot of lifetime experiences! Finally my last post of the year, I wish that the coming year will be the same year of great travel and surpass the number of travels I had this year. I'm thankful for those travels because of it, I had experiences of a lifetime. Cheers for more travels in 2012!

A separate post about my experience at the Revolving Rooftop of Baiyoke Sky Hotel will be coming soon. Happy 2012 everyone!

----------------------------------------------------------

Everything is Gold in Bangkok

2011-12-21T01:08:00.022+08:00

The grand temples and palaces of Bangkok is a grand invitation to Thailand’s architecture appreciation, rich cultural heritage and religious background. But once I step in any Wat (temple) or look upon a chedi (pagoda) or stupa (Thai buddhist monument), one color or ensemble adorning every structure caught my attention – gold. From ornate walls to windows up to the pointed roofs, every temple or palace in Bangkok seems to be bejeweled and carved out of gold. Each are sparkling. Each are beautifully designed like life-sized jewelries. Each spells gold. My wanderings to these temples and palaces let me have an ultimate gold experience in the country but it also let me appreciate the Thai architecture and culture in all forms.

The ultimate burst of gold - The Temple of the Reclining Buddha.

Wat Benchamabophit - Bangkok's finest architecture.

Wat Benchamabophit, often referred as “The Marble Temple” is the most beautiful temple I have seen in Bangkok. The gold and orange embellishments of the roof has attracted my attention for its very detailed designed and amazing architecture. The marble that has made the halls, floors and columns of the temple which is said to be imported from from Italy, just secondly caught my attention. But nonetheless, it is also a stunning work of Thai architecture. Wat Benchamabophit’s stunning and marvelous architecture is one of the best I have seen in the city that will surely caught the eyes of every Bangkok visitor.

Ornate roofs of structures inside the complex of Wat Benchamabophit.

A closer look to the intricate design of one of the windows.

I save the visit to the main temple as the last stop to explore. So I immediately explore the surrounding structures like Bovonvong Bell Tower and Sri Somdej Pavillion. Bovonvong Bell Tower is a typical style of Thai architecture, roofed with glaze tiles and walled with marble slabs. The open sided Sri Somdej Pavillion houses several drums like Shan drum, a 16foot long drum carved from a block of rosewood.

Shan drum at Sri Somdej Pavillion.

After seeing the surrounding pavilions and structures like monk’s quarters, its time for me to explore the beautiful temple. The marble part if the temple made it a real classy structure. The ubosot (Thai hall) sits in one wall of a cloister. The cloister is lined with many Buddha images which was unusual. Whereas most temple, all the Buddha images would be more or less the same, but in Wat Benchamabophit every image is different. Some are seated while some are standing, all with different poses and each has different meaning.

The golden roofs of the Marble Temple.


*The different images of Buddha found in the cloister of the temple.*

Explaining the position and meaning of the Buddha image.

Phra Buddhajinaraja at the altar and the main buddha image in Marble Temple.

The ubosot (hall) is covered by marble which made it attractive by the layered and ornate orange and gold roof designs of the temple. The altar and its main buddha image, Phra Buddhajinaraja are the most beautiful in Thailand. The image is enthroned against a dark sky-blue background. A golden flame frames the image. The windows of the temple are a type of stained glass in yellow and white. The ceiling is a beautiful beamed of colors of dark red and gold.

One of the Buddha images different from one position from another.

The main facade of the temple.

I leave Wat Benchamabophit with an unforgettable memory of its beautiful and beaming orange and gold colored roofs along with the fluttering red, blue and white flag of Thailand and the yellow flag seal of the Royal Kingdom. The temple is located opposite one corner of Chitlada Palace (the official residence of the Thai royal family) in the Dusit district. The Marble Temple was featured in the famous reality TV show, The Amazing Race 9 as the 10th and final elimination pit-stop.

Wat Benchamabophit was 10th and final elimination stop of famous reality TV show Amazing Race 9.

Post-card perfect photo of the Marble Temple.

The Grand Palace is a grand invitation to Thailand’s rich history, religious background and unique Thai architecture. Yet it is also a grand invitation to the Thailand’s gold experience! From The Marble Temple, we move to Grand Palace to explore its treasured sites and temples where each seems to be almost carved in gold and bejeweled in architecture.

Grand Palace is a complex of temples and palaces in Rattanakosin district. For 150 years, it has been a home of the King and his court as well as the administrative seat of the government. Thai kings stopped living in the palace full-time around the turn of twentieth century, but the complex remains the seat of power and spiritual heart of the kingdom. There is a strict dress code for visiting the Grand Palace. Inside the complex, where the Temple of the Emerald Buddha also sits, is Thailand’s most sacred site. Visitors must be properly dress before being allowed to enter the temple like men should wear long pants and shirts with sleeves and woman should wear close shoes, modestly dressed and no see through or bare shoulder dress.

A grand invitation...

The Upper Terrace golden and bejeweled structures will greet you once you enter the Grand Palace.

The legend of Ramakien painted in the cloister of the complex.

Once you enter the Grand Palace, the cloister wall paint of Ramakien legend and the structures of Upper Terrace will greet you. Ramakien is the Thai version of the Hindu epic Ramayana where each scenes is painted on the complex’s cloisters. First painted during the reign of King Rama I, the painted scenes were made bold and attractive with the highlights of gold embellishments. The first scene of story is found next to the east gate. Surrounding the gate port of entries are towering statues of Yakshas or guarding demons to guard Grand Palace against evil spirits.

Phra Siratana Chedi - highest gold intensity experience!

Bejeweled and golden - The Royal Pantheon's walls and windows.

Phra Mondop (left) and Phra Siratana Chedi (right).

Model of Angkor Wat of Cambodia.

The Upper Terrace comprises Phra Siratana Chedi, Phra Mondop, Prasat Phra Dhepbidorn or the Royal Pantheon and a model of Angkor Wat. Among the four structures, Phra Siratana Chedi and The Royal Pantheon caught my attention the most because of its golden and bejeweled architecture. The Phra Siratana Chedi with its golden chedis is the highest gold intensity experience among the structures because of its wholly painted gold building. The golden chedi shines ultimately in gold whenever the sun bask its sunshine on it! Beside it, is Phra Mondop, the building is a repository of sacred Buddhist scripture inscribed on palm leaves, contained within a mother-of-pearl inlaid cabinet. While the Royal Pantheon or Prasat Phra Dhepbidorn From every columns, walls, doors, windows up to the roofs, everything seems to be laid with jewelries and precious stones. The design is very detailed and beautifully patterned like the intricate designs of a jewelry. The building becomes stunning and classic with the royal blue and gold color complement that dominates the whole structure. The Royal Pantheon is where the statues of past sovereigns of the ruling Chakri Dynasty are enshrined. Scattered around the Upper Terrace, are statues of elephants and mythical beings like Kinnara. The models of elephants are a record of the famous white elephant acquired during the reigns of the various kings of Thailand.

A grand invitation to unique and stunning Thai architecture.

Neighboring to the Upper Terrace is the Temple of the Emerald Buddha or Wat Phra Kaew. The temple has a very ornate and detailed designed roof in multicolored layer of dark blue, orange and yellow. The outside structure is designed with golden intricate patterns that also extends to its columns and outer walls. But the real attraction of the temple is the Emerald Buddha found inside the hall of the temple. I take a peak inside the altar by removing my shoes and seated on the floor. Taking photos inside are not allowed. The Emerald Buddha is actually carved from a block of jade and first discovered in 1434. It was initially thought made of emerald , hence the name of the image. The image is enshrined on a golden traditional Thai-style throne made of gilded carved wood. The throne sparkles in gold designs which I admire along with its surrounding stunning jewel-like patterns that looks difficult to make. A look into the thrones’ accessory designs made like small temples will make you feel like in a trance because of its gleaming and sparking pattern. It is like jewelries glittering everywhere in Wat Phra Kaew.

The stunning Royal Pantheon.

A closer look to the golden and bejeweled wall of Wat Phra Kaew.

An exit to the surrounding cloister is the entrance to the Phra Maha Monthian, Chakri and Dusit group of buildings. I explore the Amarindra Winitchai Hall where the main feature is a throne surmounted by a nine-tiered white umbrellas and backed by a boat-shape altar. The throne is wholly made of golf and and if not its accessories are encrusted with real gold! That’s why it is heavily guarded, visitor’s are allowed to view it from a certain distance only and taking photos of the throne is not allowed. I learned that the hall was built in 1785 during the reign of King Rama I and used for a number of state ceremonies such as birthday anniversary of the king.

The grand palaces and temples of Grand Palace!

Chakri Maha Prasat Hall, left and next to it is Dusit Maha Prasat Hall.

Chakri Maha Prasat Hall is used for reception of foreign ambassadors and state banquets.

We exited through Snamchand Pavilion that lead us to one of the grandest palace inside the complex, the Chakri Maha Prasat Hall. It is a stunning palace with golden embellishment roof design but what makes it unique is incoporating a European style architecture to the building. The manicured trees and plants surrounding its facade added a pleasant viewing of the palace. Chakri Maha Prasat Hall was built in 1882, the same year as the centenary celebration of Bangkok. The different halls of the building is used for the reception of foreign ambassadors and state banquets.

Neighboring to the Chakri group is the Dusit group of buildings. This group consists of the Dusit Maha Prasat Hall and Amphorn Phimok Prasat Pavilion. The Dusit Maha Prasat Throne Hall was built by King Rama I and intended the present building to be use for his own lying-in-state ceremony. Today, is still remains as the lying-in-state of kings, queens and honored members of the royal family. The hall has an admirable four-tiered roof brightly encrusted with gold and intricate patterns and layered green and orange covers. It is topped with seven-tiered spire also made of intricate gold patterns. Also a structure who wouldn’t be left behind in gold embellishment structures is the Amphorn Phimok Prasat Pavilion. Aside from the elaborate design and architecture, its gold design extends to its columns and wall lines. This design makes it one of the most stunning pavilion inside the Grand Palace.

Snamchand Pavilion (the grey structure) leads an entrance to the Chakri and Dusit group of buildings.

The golden pedestal and the Emerald Buddha at Wat Phra Kaew.

Dusit Maha Prasat Hall (back with golden spire) and Amphorn Phimok Prasat Pavilion (front and smaller structure).

I am amazed in each architectural designs of the structures inside the Grand Palace. Each seems to be laid with jewels and gold! The beautiful pattern designs are hard to duplicate. Yet the boldest of all the designs or colors found inside the complex is gold! The single color that always caught my attention. The only color that dominates each temple and palace. In Grand Palace, everything is gleaming in gold, gold, gold.

Almost a neighbor to Grand Palace is Wat Pho or better known as the Temple of the Reclining Buddha. This is where I experience an ultimate burst of gold because of the biggest image of reclining Buddha I have seen sparkling wholly in gold! The moment I step into the grounds of Wat Pho, a lot of visitors were already inside the hall to catch a glimpse of the golden image. The soles of the statue’s feet are inlaid with mother-of-pearl showing 108 auspicious signs of the Buddha. This is the largest and most beautiful piece of fine arts of the Buddha image in a reclining position found in Thailand. Even the walls and columns where it is contained is reflecting gold colors because of the golden gleam of the image.

Gold, gold, gold - The Golden Reclining Buddha, the biggest buddha image in Thailand.

3 of the group of 4 huge pagodas called Phra Maha Chedi Si Rajakarn inside the grounds of Wat Pho.

Painted murals inside the walls of Temple of the Reclining Buddha.

As I explore the grounds of Wat Pho, I saw an almost endless surrounding double cloisters in the courtyard called Phra Rabieng. In these cloisters, the canopies has admirable pattern designs too. But what caught my sight are the hundred buddha images lining in the cloisters. There are 400 images to be exact all gleaming in gold! I proceed to explore Phra Uposatha, the main chapel and heart of the monastery. Inlays of mother-of-pearl on the outer side of the entrance door panels depict episodes from the Ramakien, while on the inner side are painted specimens of ecclesiastical fans of rank which are presented to the monk sovereigns. The principal budhha image inside the main chapel is Phra Buddha Deva Patimakorn. It is in a gesture of seated Buddha in a three tiered pedestal and some ashes of King Rama I are kept under the pedestal. While my eyes is gleaming in gold again, I also notice the mural paintings inside the hall. It is also the only chapel that is allowed to photograph the Buddha image while on the altar. Proper seating gesture is strictly observed inside the chapel like feet should not point directly to the Buddha image or its pedestal. Outside the chapel, the chapel’s double marble walls surrounding it called Kampaengkaew had a symbolic architecture. There are 8 sheltered gates and 8 sculpted boundary stones.

The huge image of the golden reclining Buddha.

A faithful praying inside Phra Uposatha with the Phra Buddha Deva Patimakorn buddha image at the altar.

Some of the numerous small spires found inside Wat Pho.

Inside the grounds of Wat Pho, I’ve also noticed the four huge and tall spires or pagodas surrounded by white wall with Thai-Chinese style sheltered gates decorated with colored-glazed tiles and Chinese rockeries guardians. This group of four huge pagodas called Phra Maha Chedi Si Rajakarn is 42 meters high and elaborated with colorful mosaics. Actually the four pagodas represent the four kings of the Chakri Dynasty while there are also smaller pagodas found inside the temple that contains the holy relics of Buddha or for the purpose of keeping the ashes of the royal descendants. Phra Maha Chedi Sri Sanpetdayarn is the green tile mosaic pagoda represents the reign of King Rama I. The one with white tile mosaic representing the reign of King Rama II is named Phra Maha Chedi Dilok Dhammakaroknitarn, It was built by his son, King Rama III. He also built the yellow tile mosaic pagoda, Phra Maha Chedi Muni Batborikharn, for his own reign and for the praise of Buddha. The last one is Phra Maha Chedi Song Phra Srisuriyothai in dark blue tile mosaic is the most beautiful of the four tallest pagodas. I find the dark blue tile designs a true royalty and class. It represents the reign of King Rama IV or King Mongkut.

This spires and pagodas in Wat Pho has a significant historical value and admirable designs but the ultimate burst of gold is still the reclining golden Buddha. It is the center of gold experience in Wat Pho. Though, the hot weather and high sun can discourage you to explore further the grounds of the temple, Wat Pho is a worth visit for an enriching learning about Thailand and it rich cultural heritage.

Phra Maha Chedi Muni Batborikharn represents the reign of King Rama III.

The dark blue tile pagoda, Phra Maha Chedi Song Phra Srisuriyothai.

Phra Maha Chedi Si Rajakarn.

When I visited Wat Benchamabophit, it suits its another name as The Marble Temple for it is the most beautiful temple I saw in Bangkok. Its marble columns and floors gleams classiness in it that perfectly matches to its ornate and intricate designed golden roofs. It has a very admirable architecture. When I visited the Grand Palace, I was submerged to its golden and bejeweled architectures. Each structure is stunning and in everywhere I look or glance, I always see gold! Yet Grand Palace is a grand invitation to the Thailand’s history discovery, rich culture and unique architecture. When I visited Wat Pho, I believe I reach my ultimate gold experience in Bangkok. It almost submerge me in a trance because of the burst of gold all-over the huge reclining Buddha that I never seen before. The pagodas and spires surrounding the temple proves the rich religious background and history of the country. I won’t be surprise if James Bond’s famed nemesis Auric Goldfinger would love Bangkok. Because he loves only gold and in Bangkok everything is gold!

-----------------------------------------------------------------

Everything is Gold in Bangkok is part of my Thailand's Amazing Smiles series where I share my wonderful trip to the land of amazing smiles last October 25-28, 2011. Other "gold" experience you may have in Bangkok is by visiting Wat Saket or Golden Mount, Loha Prasat and Wat Traimit or Temple of the Golden Buddha. For a helpful trip to Bangkok visit Bangkok for Visitors website for more information.You might also like the other parts of the series: (Links coming soon)

Exploring Bangkok on a Tuktuk
A Bowl of Thailand
Bangkok by Boat
The Charming Canals of Ratchaburi
The Royal Orchids of Thailand
Siam Elephant Encounter made me Smile
Pratunam's Irresistible Bargains
360 Degree of Bangkok from the Sky
Suvarnabhumi Airport: Thailand's mega-structure

Going Green: Ecotourism, the new trend in travel!

2011-12-12T04:33:00.006+08:00

A new and popular trend in travel is making waves and I believe most of us heard a lot about it. Ecotourism is trending now in travel! Especially in our country whose provinces highly depending on it nowadays. Ecotourism is one of the key components of Green Travel. It a new kind of tourism that encourages green travel but at the same time encourages and promotes community's active participation, development and economic growth in the area where ecotourism site is.

Hundred Islands National Park, an ecotourism site in Pangasinan.

In the country, especially in the tourist provinces, ecotourism is highly practice like in Palawan and Bohol. The government done several acts and laws and to strengthen and support ecotourism in our country. It also at the same time help the surge of tourists in the ecotourism sites of the province. The result is many people in the community places depend on it like their everyday livelihood, income and development aside from the promotion of the province as a destination of choice. More and more people are visiting the ecotourism sites and more provinces are developing their ecotourism potential to invite visitors and gearing up for this kind of travel as a result as well. It also enables the provinces to gear up for this kind of travel because of its positive and beneficial effects to the province and community. The good concept of ecotourism is that not only the place or tourism site is promoted but also encourages a sustainable tourism by giving enviromental awareness, taking care and preserving the place and at the same time help the people around it in their livelihood and income through participation and education about it. Ecotourism promoted both community growth, provincial tourism and green travel!

Here's a concrete definition and principle of Ecotourism: Ecotourism is a form of sustainable tourism within a natural and cultural heritage area where community participation, protection and management of natural resources, cultural and indigenous knowledge and practices, environmental education and ethics as well as economic benefits are fostered and pursued for the enrichment of host communities and satisfaction of visitors. Ecotourism helps in sustaining the development of the country as it aims to protect our natural resources, on which the ecotourism industry depends.

Loboc River in Bohol - one of the ecotourism sites in the Philippines.

Principles of Ecotourism:

Ecotourism is about uniting conservation, communities, and sustainable travel. This means that those who implement and participate in ecotourism activities should follow the following ecotourism principles:

* Minimize impact.

* Build environmental and cultural awareness and respect.

* Provide positive experiences for both visitors and hosts.

* Provide direct financial benefits for conservation.

* Provide financial benefits and empowerment for local people.

* Raise sensitivity to host countries' political, environmental, and social climate.

Ecotourism in the Philippines

The Philippine Department of Tourism's hat has been thrown into ecotourism game for awhile now. They've made it part of their plan for economic development. The country's ecotourism program strives to install processes and procedures that are economically beneficial, socially responsible, ecologically sustainable and advantageous to the local communities by creating jobs and improving living conditions overall. Palawan is the second biggest province in the country in terms of land area and has been recommended by the tourism department as the top eco-destination in the country.

Ecotourism Activities

There are a variety of eco-friendly activities available for the ecotourist to enjoy: Swimming with whale sharks in the their natural environment or getting out the binoculars and watching for the rare Philippine Eagle or 600 other varieties of birds. A traveler can also go to a jungle environment survival training camp where he or she can be taught to drink from a water vine, cook in a bamboo steamer and dine off a bamboo plate. Other activities include Trekking/Mountaineering, Wildlife Watching, Scuba Diving/Snorkling, Caving, Kayaking/Rafting and Surfing.

Eco-friendly Resorts

The Department of Tourism recommends The El Nido, Lagen and Miniloc Island Resorts, Club Noah Isabelle and the Bohol Bee Farm. These hotels all carry out environmentally friendly practices: Coastal clean ups, prohibiting the gathering of shells and coral, eco-safe cleanser and many others.

Taal Volcano from Tagaytay City - an ecotoursim site.

I'm glad that more and more province in our country are gearing up towards ecotourism. Its the new trend in travel that a lot of travelers are attracted to. And hotels and resorts are leaning to Green Hotels concepts. It only shows that ecotourism and going green is not just profitable but very helpful in the livelihood of people involve because of its positive benefits. Its has a beneficial idea and principle behind it. A sustainable tourism is a good way to practice and promote green travel. I'm glad to experience and visited some ecotourism site in our country like Bohol, Hundred Islands National Park, Taal Volcano and Tagaytay City. I hopefully to see other ecoutourism sights and places in the country like Palawan (the ecotourism capital of the Philippines), Camiguin, Mayon Volcano and Vigan. And there's a lot more ecotourism places in the country! And more potential places to develop too! May more travelers and visitors promote ecotourism in the Philippines. The beauty of nature is hard to resist and marvel. Ecotourism preserves it while sharing that beauty.

Special thanks to these sources:The International Ecotourism Society, WikiPilipinas, and Josh Peterson.

Magazine cover worthy Pangasinan

2011-12-06T12:31:00.018+08:00

While enjoying the nice beaches in Quezon Island (part of Pangasinan's Hundred Islands National Park), I saw and captured this rock formation in the island molded with natural stairs and terraces along with native cabana for visitors to enjoy. Set along a scenery cove and beach along with trees and rock formation, I instantly find the sight, a magazine cover worthy of Pangasinan in a photo. I also imagine a travel magazine with this photo on the cover and have Pangasinan as a the cover story where inside the magazine are lots of stories about trip to the province. Don't you agree this photo is magazine cover worthy?

Learn more about my Pangasinan wanderings in Alaminos' Hundred Islands National Park here.

----------------------------------------------------------

Exploring Bangkok on a Tuktuk

2011-11-28T16:20:00.022+08:00

The best way to explore Bangkok is through its very popular auto rickshaw vehicle – Tuktuk. They are readily available in every street corners of Bangkok so it is easy to spot them to get a short trip within the city. It is a very popular mode of transportation in Bangkok so there is no reason to excuse myself in a taking a wild ride of tuktuk especially as a first time visitor in Thailand.

Our tuktuk driver and city tour guide, Dalin, literally drive us through-out the city to explore its great sights ans places of interest for a whole day. Since tutuk is a small vehicle, it can easily pass through the traffic jams of Bangkok and small alleys for shortcuts. My tuktuk ride wasn’t just a great experience of exploring Bangkok but also a great way to sample the urban life scenes in Thailand’s capital.

Exploring Bangkok on a Tuktuk!

Our tuktuk driver/tour guide - Dalin, driving us in every part of Bangkok.

First thing that I noticed in the streets of Bangkok is that it is less polluted in smoke even though there are times it is traffic and heavily packed by vehicle. The streets are also cleaned, well maintained most of the time free from litters and trashes. I am also fascinated by bright and loud colored taxis that brings lively vibes to the busy streets of Bangkok. Malls and shops are in every street corners making the city a real shoppers paradise.

The streets of Bangkok on a tuktuk's eyeview.

Tuktuk can easily pass through the network streets of Bangkok. That’s why going through the nearest attractions of Bangkok just like a breeze. One of the nearest museums in Pratunam and Ratchaprarop train station is Suan Pakkad Palace. This museum is a collection f traditional Thai houses collected by Prince and Princess Chumbot. Some houses belonged to the prince’s family and all are more than a century old. Don’t miss to see the Lacquer Pavilion. It is an extraordinary example of Thai art and consists of a room within a room styled structure decorated with richly carved gilded wood.

A few short hops on tuktuk, we passed by the palace residence of the Thai monarchy, The Chitlada Palace. Though it is beautifully covered with fountains and canals in its gates, it is impossible to see the palace as it is mostly covered with trees and always close to the public. We drove to our intended destination, Wat Benchamabophit or The Marble Temple is the most beautiful temple I saw in Bangkok. It is just located opposite one corner of Chitlada Palace in Dusit district. The temple is noted for its stunning and majestic architecture which is distinctly Thai. You’ll admire the temple’s stunning architecture from the gold and orange encrusted roofs to the ubosot (hall) covered outside by marble from Italy. Take a peek into its altar and it main Buddha image (Phra Buddhajinaraja) as these is the most beautiful in Thailand. Take time also to look the surrounding cloisters of the temple where there are numerous Buddha images on display as well as significant buildings like Song Dharm Hall and Sri Sri Somdej Pavilion.

Wat Benchamabophit or The Marble Temple.

The surrounding canal inside The Marble Temple.

Wat Benchamabophit - The most beautiful temple in Bangkok!

Various Buddha images found inside the temple's cloister.

The author and the stunning Marble Temple.

A reminder that you are in the land of smiles!

Driving past Bang Lumpoo district, I saw the Democracy Monument, a public monument commissioned in 1939 to commemorate Siamese Revolution of 1932. After a few rolls, we reach Rattanakosin where a few steps from our drop-off is the large Sanam Luang Park. On opposite of the park is one of Bangkok’s major attraction – The Grand Palace. It is a complex of palaces and temples where for 150 years was the home of King and his court. It is here where I became amaze by the different and detailed architectural structures of buildings, palaces and temples. Everything is bejewelled in gleaming stones and gold! Wat Phra Kaew or The Temple of the Emerald Buddha is the most important temple inside the complex because it houses the Emerald Buddha. Some of the most remarkable building inside the complex were The Royal Pantheon or Prasat Phra Dhepbidorn, Chakri Maha Prasat Hall and Dusit Maha Prasat Hall. All of which are architecturally stunning buildings. The Grand Palace is a grand invitation to Thailand’s rich culture, history and heritage.

The entrance facade of Grand Palace.

The grand temples and palaces of Grand Palace.

Admiring the grandeur of Chakri Maha Prasat Hall.

A grand invitation in Grand Palace.

Almost right next door is Wat Pho, better known as the Temple of the Reclining Buddha because of the reclining Buddha sparkling in gold. Aside from the golden reclining image, the temple also has four largest chedi (Thai buddhist monument or pagoda). They are decorated with ceramic tiles and three dimensional ceramic pieces which form intricate floral patterns. Its four highest chedis which is also each colored distinctly actually represents the kings who ruled the country in the past. I was surprised to learned that the four chedis is just part of the 91 chedis that can be found inside the temple. There are also 400 buddha images on display in the surrounding cloisters of the temple. All are gleaming in gold! Wat Pho is also known as the oldest temple in Bangkok and actually much older than the city of Bangkok itself. It was founded in 17^th century.

The reclining golden buddha, sparkling in gold!

The stunning wall design of the reclining Buddha hall.

One section of the cloister surrounding Wat Pho with numerous buddha images.

Via tuktuk, you can also reached the Royal Barges Museum. The museum displays 8 of the 50 royal barges on display that is used in formal processions during the old Ayuthaya period. The barges on display very in size and function. The most important of all is the Suppanahong or “Golden Swan”, with its figurehead prow in the shape of a huge golden swan. Next to it is the Narai Song Suban with King Narai riding a Garuda on its prow. Around the sides and back of the warehouse are display cases with oars, flags, and other paraphernalia of the procession ceremonies.

The head of Suppanahong or “Golden Swan”

The Royal Barges in the museum.

Also in a day you can explore the almost the side by side sights of Loha Prasat (a unique temple structure in Bangkok for its “metal castle” concept and Wat Ratchanadda) and Wat Saket (or Golden Mount is located just outside the old royal city precincts, famous for the golden chedi sitting on a man-made mountain). Then you can also proceed in exploring Vimanmek Mansion. Billed as the world's largest teakwood mansion, it was built as a royal residence in the first few years of the 20th century. Its now a large complex of museums where the buildings themselves form part of the "collection" on display. Next to the mansion, the tuktuk can fetch you to the nearby Dusit Zoo. A favorite for families in Bangkok, the zoo is popular as a picnic spot as it is for the animals. The park has many food stalls with a reputation for delicious food at very low prices. Its central location makes it easy to get to.

Bangkok experience is not complete without taking a ride of Tuktuk. (Video)

I had a satisfying whole day exploration of Bangkok via Tuktuk!

A day exploration of Bangkok is an indulgence to the senses but it also involves tiring walks, getting lost and dealing with hot weather. So it just rightful for Dalin to drive us one of the best seafood restaurant in Bangkok to replenish energy from a tiring day. This is a great way to end my day of exploration of Bangkok – to start exploring it this time by trying Thai cuisines! Who wouldn’t agree? A tiring day of exploration needs a yummy bowl of Bangkok!

-----------------------------------------------------------------

Exploring Bangkok on a Tuktuk is part of my Thailand's Amazing Smiles series where I share my wonderful trip to the land of amazing smiles last October 25-28, 2011. We actually did not visit Royal Barges Museum because of the flooded situation and we only passed by Suan Pakkad Palace but each site can be easily reach via tuktuk and other main attraction in Bangkok. For a helpful trip to Bangkok visit Bangkok for Visitors website for more information.You might also like the other parts of the series: (Links coming soon)

Everything is Gold in Bangkok
A Bowl of Thailand
Bangkok by Boat
The Charming Canals of Ratchaburi
The Royal Orchids of Thailand
Siam Elephant Encounter made me Smile
Pratunam's Irresistible Bargains
360 Degree of Bangkok from the Sky
Suvarnabhumi Airport: Thailand's megastructure

Thailand's Amazing Smiles

2011-11-19T13:08:00.023+08:00

Sawasdee kap! A warm welcome from the land of smiles and one of the most exciting destination in Asia – Thailand. The country can really claim the right to its tourism tagline as “land of smiles” and “amazing” as most Thai people you’ll meet are often smiling and seldom does not in addition to its amazing, beautiful and unique places, natural wonders and culture for every visitors to enjoy. These unique charms of Thailand makes it one of the most famous destinations in Asia. That’s why it is no wonder that this kingdom fascinated Hollywood to do movies about it or associated with it like Anna and the King (1999) and The Beach (2000) and stage world events like 2007 SEA Games and Miss Universe in 1992 and 2005. I myself is amazed to Thailand as my latest trip this year.

Sawasdee kap! Welcome to Thailand.

The trip happened last October 25-28 and guess what is my first experience in its capital, Bangkok? Getting lost in the alleys and streets like that of an Amazing Race episode! My trip to Bangkok was threaten to be spoiled also because during the time of my visit there’s a flood threat crisis to flow in the inner parts of the city. The flood flow comes from the northern provinces near the north part of Bangkok. Though, there is flood already in the north area of the city, I’m still happy that it did not spoiled my trip in exploring the country. While some sights in the city that I intent to visit can’t be visited due to the flood especially near the Chao Phraya River, I was still able to see the must-see and must-do in Bangkok. I mainly visited Bangkok, the capital of Thailand. But I also visited the province of Ratchaburi and Nakhon Pathom to see some important sites as well. I am very happy that I enjoyed this latest trip of mine to the fullest.

My first impression about Thailand is that it has many similarities to ours. But I am glads to learn that the Thai people are very much impressed to our good command in English according to our Thai tour guide. Well, I adore their friendly and warm attitude and resiliency in times of adversity like the flood crisis they are facing now. I also notice that most streets in Bangkok are clean and well-maintained. Traffic jams exists especially at rush hours but air is less polluted. The Thai people are always smiling and very polite. They highly revered their king as seen in every public building adorning his portrait. Just within the city there are already many historical sights, places, shopping plazas and activities to try that makes it popular to tourists. A traveler here can experience the best of Thailand by just visiting within the city.

The grand palaces of Grand Palace.

Bangkok is the capital and largest urban area city in Thailand. It is known in Thai as Krung Thep Maha Nakhon or simply Krung Thep, meaning "city of angels." The full name of Bangkok is Krung Thep Mahanakhon Amon Rattanakosin Mahintharayutthaya Mahadilok Phop Noppharat Ratchathani Burirom Udomratchaniwet Mahasathan Amon Phiman Awatan Sathit Sakkathattiya Witsanukam Prasit. The 167 letters make Bangkok's name the longest city name in the world. It has more than 400 richly decorated temples, some of the biggest shopping centers in Asia, and six universities. Its numerous canals, some of which are home to floating markets, give Bangkok the name "Venice of the East."

A warm welcome from Suvarnabhumi Airport.

Thailand, officially the Kingdom of Thailand and formerly known as Siam is located at the centre of the Indochina peninsula and Southeast Asia. It is bordered to the north by Burma and Laos, to the east by Laos and Cambodia, to the south by the Gulf of Thailand and Malaysia, and to the west by the Andaman Sea and the southern extremity of Burma. Its maritime boundaries include Vietnam in the Gulf of Thailand to the southeast and Indonesia and India in the Andaman Sea to the southwest. With great food, a tropical climate, fascinating culture and great beaches, Thailand is a magnet for travellers the world over.

Here’s the preview of my Thailand trip stories that you’ll expect in my upcoming posts: (Links will be available soon)

Exploring Bangkok on a Tuktuk

The best way to explore the city of Bangkok is via its popular mode of transportation – Tuktuk. It is an auto-rickshaw readily available within the main and alley streets of Bangkok for tourist to try in seeing the best sights of the city. Our tuktuk driver and tourist guide, Dalin was a gentle Tuktuk driver and had us literally exploring Bangkok. Since it is a small vehicle that it can pass easily the traffic jams of the city, via Tuktuk the must-see places are easily reached like Wat Benchamabophit, Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Chao Phraya River boat stations, Suan Pakkad Palace and Royal Barges Museum. Tuktuk is a great way to explore the city because you also get to see the every city life scenes of Bangkok in every corner.

Exploring Bangkok on a Tuktuk

Everything is Gold in Bangkok

When I visited the grand temples and palaces in Bangkok, they have one color adorned in every structures – Gold. The Marble Temple or Wat Benchamabophit’s ornate roofs and windows will amaze you with its detailed and intricate designs but the gold embellishment will always caught your attention. Moving to Grand Palace, the gold intensity rises with all its gold sparkling temples and palaces in the complex. Every structure seems to be carved out of gold with its bejeweled Thai architecture. The Grand Palace is not only a historical place for Thai architecture appreciation but also a hotspot treasure off Thai’s religious background. Nearby is the Temple of the Reclining Buddha or Wat Pho where the first sight of the image of the reclining Buddha is an ultimate burst of gold. The reclining image image if not made of gold, is painted wholly with gold making it an ultimate gold experience in Thailand. James Bond’s nemesis Auric Goldfinger would love Thailand because he loves only gold.

Everything is gold in Bangkok!

A Bowl of Thailand

Discovering Thailand is not complete without taking a food trip! Thai cuisine are often dubbed as one of the best food in Asia for its interesting taste and spice mixes. And I myself would not let to pass the opportunity to experience a plate of Thailand. I’m intrigued to taste its famous dish, Phad Thai – a mix dish of bean sprout, tofu, shrimp, spices and eggs. Too bad, I did not had a plate of this dish during this trip. But there’s still some worthy Thai dish I’m glad to taste. Warning, if you’re not a fan of spicy foods then Thai cuisine is not for you as most of their cuisines are spicy, often mixed with chilies suited for a spicy-hungry tongue. But do not fret, Thai cuisines also has non-spicy servings that can easily be found as street foods like Khao Phat (Thai fried rice with mixed meat and veggies) and Kannom Krok (sweet breakfast dessert made from coconut milk). Thai cuisine is sure to satisfy one’s hunger for a food trip. It tastes delicious, promise!

The scenic Chao Phraya River.

Bangkok by Boat

Life in Bangkok has always center around the river, particularly on the famed Chao Phraya River on whose banks most of the city’s attraction are also to be found. Viewing the sights from the river barges’perspective is the perfect way to sightsee Bangkok in a nutshell. Nothing can compare to the experience of fresh air breezing on your skin while enjoying the unique oriental sights of Bangkok via a river cruise. A Chao Phraya River cruise gives visitors an easy access to its major attractions like Temple of the Dawn or Wat Arun, Royal Barges Museum, Wat Pho and Temple of the Emerald Buddha. Crossing Chao Phraya River will be the same experience once you try to cruise on it to explore Bangkok.

The Charming Canals of Ratchaburi.

The Charming Canals of Ratchaburi

How would you feel when you had a chance to be in one of the set location of a James Bond movie? Total bliss, right? I had a unique experience when I cruised on the charming canals and floating market in Ratchaburi. I get to see how life moves living in the canals of the province. I also learned the different livelihood that the Thai people does in the province. The floating market was a charming experience about learning the everyday life in Ratchaburi. All of the bargains sold in the floating market are also tempting to buy. From souvenirs, Thai fruits, local cuisine, silk linens, wooden masks, accessories up to spices, everything is sold under the sun in the floating market! Damnoen Saduak Floating Market and its canals is one of the set locations of 1974 James Bond movie, The Man with the Golden Gun.

The Royal Orchids of Thailand

Thailand has always been known for its stunning orchids. So I was surprised to learn that the orchids is not its national flower but the Golden Shower Tree flower. Orchids from Thailand are one of the best if not the best variety for export and garden breeding. It is no wonder that many horticulturists are fascinated with this flower. This also has made Thai orchids an unofficial national flower of Thailand. It still continuous to become a symbol of the country for its enigmatic royal beauty.

Siam Elephant Encounters made me Smile.

Siam Elephant Encounters made me Smile

An encounter with the elephants is one of the unique experiences I had in Thailand. Traveling for two hours to Sampran, province of Nakhon Pathom is the only way to get up close and personal with these gentle giant mammals. The Siam elephants are the revered national animals of Thailand and considered to be an animal of the royalties. The elephants made me smile in a show I’ve watched that presents their intelligence and display of learned tricks but at the same time I learned their importance in Thai history. They are smart! And very docile! I also tried to hug and feed them. Elephant encounters up close has never been much enjoyable as this experience!

Pratunam’s irresistible bargains.

Pratunam’s Irresistible Bargains

Thailand is one of Asia’s shopping capital. Shopping can mean from the highest luxury goods and fashion boutiques down to the lowest wholesale market trooped everyday by the locals and tourists as well. Bangkok is widely known for its day and night market’s irresistible bargains. Whether inside a building or streetside stalls, bargains of shops from shoes, clothes, accessories to underwears are endless! Be ready to cash out all your money as credit cards are not widely accepted in stall markets. Plus hold your impulsive buying attitude in you as this endless paradise of shopping bargains are all in Pratunam, one of Bangkok’s shopping mecca.

360 degree of Bangkok from the Sky.

360 degree of Bangkok from the Sky

How about a view of the City of Angels (as what Bangkok is known for) from the sky? I experienced seeing the city of Bangkok from every angle as I got a 360 degree view of the city when I visited Baiyoke Sky Hotel observation deck. Who wouldn’t have a great view of Bangkok from the sky when you are at the city’s tallest building. The lights of the city is best appreciated at night when every part of Bangkok is sparkling like a nebula of stars. Viewing the splendid glitter of lights and skyscrapers while enjoying a piña colada on a rooftop bar is quite the most relaxing experience I had in Bangkok.

Suvarnabhumi Airport: Thailand’s mega structure.

Suvarnabhumi Airport: Thailand’s megastructure

An airport review of one of the biggest airport I have been in my whole travel life, Suvarnabhumi Airport is also Thailand’s megastructure. Imagine, three buildings of SM Mall of Asia together just composed the main building of the airport. Satellite airside gates are not yet included. Be sure to pronounce the nameof the airport correctly. It spells Suvarnabhumi but pronounced as Su-wa-na-poom. I tried to stroll the whole airport just to savor how mega structure it is. I had a good sense of wonderment at first but it only gave me a tiring last hour stay in Bangkok’s main air gateway.

Thailand made me smile. The people, the cultures, the sights, the cuisines, the places.. there are so many things about this wonderful country that made me smile. It has a unique charm of an orient country. It is fascinating that everyone would love anything about it. I’m lucky to experience its warm welcome of “Sawasdee kap” that let’s me response “Ka pun kap” (Thank you) for the wonderful experiences I had there. For me, its not just amazing as what its tourism tagline prides of. Thailand “always” amazes that’s why it makes everyone smile.

About the Writer

2011-11-10T13:34:00.019+08:00

Ni Hao, Mabuhay and Aloha!

I have been traveling since 7 years old. So it is no wonder that since my first exposure to travel at an early age made a "viajero" passion in me. It is since then I keep on discovering and exploring places to travel. My first international travel was in Sydney, Australia and my earliest within the country travel that I remember is in Iloilo, where my father hails from and our my family's frequent vacation destination. I am proud Caviteno, half Ilonggo (sounds global?) and born in Cavite City, Cavite where I still currently resides.

Most of my travels before were all just about family reunions especially in overseas trips but my recent trips in the last 5 years were now more about exploration, discovery and experiences about a certain place. I make wide research about the place now and I do careful itinerary planning before going on a trip. It gave me a deeper knowledge and wider perspective about the place I am about to visit. Honestly, I would want most of my travels to be out of the country. It was just recently maybe 3 years ago that I did take a round the Philippines trip experiences and discoveries. Discovering the wonders of other countries make me crave to discover more. But taking an adventure around the Philippines is also a great discovery of its 7, 107 wonders!

One of the best within the country trip - Puerto Galera.

I never experience traveling solo. And I think I wouldn't. They say to try solo travel for you to have experience independence, self-confidence and had more to time to reflect about oneself. But for me, travel is best experienced when shared with others like family and friends. You create memorable memories, learn a lot of things and get unforgettable trips when you have companions in your viajes. Hence, why most of my travels, I had travel mates - either my family, relatives or friends!

Memories of my first travel in Sydney, Australia.

Summer 2010 in Matabungkay, Lian, Batangas.

I've worked in the travel industry as a travel agent for a year before I landed to my current job as a ground steward in a ground handling company at Ninoy Aquino International Airport. Even in my career, you can see my passion for travel still lies as with these backgrounds on travel, geography, tourism and airlines, my passion in travel just intensifies.

Maybe you are also wondering how do I get to travel a lot if my source of travel fund is only my salary. Well, I going to tell a secret. I have yearly travel benefits via ID tickets courtesy of my mothers' benefits who worked as an airline employee from an airline with a slogan of "Asia's first, shinning through" A reason why you often see her in my trips. Actually, my mom is the real viajera, dragging me and my siblings in her travel trips often since we're young. I am very much thankful for this travel benefits that I get because without it I wouldn't see the world! I would never enjoy travel to the fullest without it! I am very lucky to have it!

Aloha to Hawaii's Paradise.

Siam elephant encounters in Thailand.

I also love writing. I started writing way back in writing school project essays and poetry. But I did not expect that from simple poems and essays, my passion for writing will emerge. Travel combined with my passion for writing is something I did not expect to be a great combination of a life-long passion. I like to share my travel experiences through writing. This is why I wrote all my travel stories to the best that I can describe it so readers can have a great image of the adventures I had through words.

Ian meets the 7,107 islands of the Philippines in Alaminos, Pangasinan.

Travel let me experience the best of life can offer. I don't only appreciate the places I am visiting or the sights I am seeing but it let me appreciate life at most through discovery of having a positive outlook in life at all times and embracing the different sides of it - good and bad, ups and downs, beauty and ugliness... The happiness, satisfaction and enjoyment I get from this passion is something that money can't buy or equal. And no experience of life can equal the lifetime opportunity to see the beauty of our country or the rest the world through traveling. It is a good way to learn the realities of life, the cultures surrounding us and the rich heritage of our country. Travel let me have experiences of a lifetime.

- Ian Roger C. Poral

----------------------------------------------------------

More things about me...

Dream destination: Beijing, hopefully in 2012. And far-fetched - Greece and Egypt as well as Bahamas.
I don't travel without... camera of course! And hankies since I sweat easily.
Historical trip vs. theme parks: I'm not fond of theme parks. I more on historical trips because I learn more about the place or its history. Its a better way to understand the place and its people. History is also my favorite school subject.
Most romantic destination: Paris
Favorite TV Shows: Reality shows, travel shows and Amazing Race of course!
Worst travel experience so far: Getting lost in the unfamiliar streets of Bangkok just to look for hotel.
Things I collect from trips: I usually collect keychains and souvenir t-shirts but I also collect model airplanes from inflight duty-free or in airport shops.
Window seat vs. aisle seat: Always window seat! I love seeing the views all the time. Aisle or middle seat are nightmares for me on airplane trips.
Travel tip: Research about the place that you are going to visit like reading tourism sites and travel blogs that discusses the place you want to see. They are very helpful in your itinerary planning and what to expect to the place.

Tokyo by Night

2011-10-29T19:55:00.001+08:00

Japan often hails as “the land of the rising sun” but the sunset in my view as the car I am riding pass down the road with numerous Japanese signage in between towards the city of Tokyo is telling me that exploring it in daytime is not enough to appreciate its urban culture and places of interest. Basking under the amber rays of sunset, it was the start of my night journey in exploring the chic city of Tokyo. From my sight, I can already see the high-rising skyscrapers of the city mushrooms in every block of the city. And the fast-paced life of people moves in the city where everything is in action. Yet I contemplate that behind everything that is cosmopolitan about Tokyo, its old charm of diverse culture and life continuous to enchant its visitors.

The glowing Tokyo Tower.

Sumptuous treat courtesy of Kuya Sam.

The sunset just finished. And the sky now glows from light to dark violet, when we arrived at a park where there is a spectacular view of the Rainbow Bridge. It is a suspension bridge crossing northern Tokyo Bay between the Shibaura Wharf and the Odaiba waterfront development in Minato, Tokyo. I am wondering how it came to be known by that name, maybe because the arch of the bridge resembles the arch of a rainbow. The bridge is then illuminated with light as the night approaches. I can’t recall the name of the park where I stay but the panoramic view of Rainbow Bridge facing over the Tokyo Bay with the skyscrapers of the city in the background is a perfect picture of Tokyo by night. The steel designed of Rainbow Bridge harmonizes with the skyline of central Tokyo. And the glitter of lights from the bridge and from the buildings adds a dramatic effect to the night view of Rainbow Bridge.

Tokyo Sunset - where our journey begins...

The Rainbow Bridge leading to the chic city of Tokyo as our backdrop.

The Rainbow Bridge's glow of colors.

It is the Rainbow Bridge that leads us to the chic city of Tokyo. We drove crossed the bridge that is erected over Tokyo Bay. The waters of the Tokyo Bay flashes light illuminated from the city buildings surrounding it. I appreciated it best this night time. There are lamps placed on the wires supporting the bridge, which are illuminated into three different colors - red, white and green. Hence, the interplaying color of lights adorning the columns of Rainbow Bridge makes it majestic and beautiful. From a distance, I can already see the famous Tokyo Tower. And as we reach the end of the bridge we immediately proceed to Shibuya.

I believe it is around seven in the evening when we arrived. It is still rush hour. It is the time where the sea of people in Shibuya is overwhelming. It was overwhelming that I didn't dare to cross the famous intersection. The massive crowd of people of all walks of life - students, employees, young, old, expats, businessmen seems not to care as long as they cross Shibuya crossing to continue living in their urban life in Tokyo. I just stayed around the vicinity with my travelmates just to take in all this vibe of Shibuya's high city life - the air, the sea of people, the tall skyscrapers. It's a place where stop is not an option. All the while, the surrounding skyscrapers continue to flash various advertisements from three large TV screens of different products necessary to an urban life. Brisk advertising in the exciting megacity of Tokyo is telling of its intense commerce. Even the shopping malls seem to stimulate a brighter mood to take a second look at it.

Shibuya at night's scramble crossing.

Beware of getting lost, Shibuya is famous for its scramble crossing. In front of the Shibuya Station Hachikō exit, all vehicles stop in all directions to allow pedestrians to inundate the entire intersection. Everything is moving and there is no slowing down of life in Shibuya. People are always seen in action here, whether walking fast, slowing down, talking to a phone, traveling with a dog or helping a foreigner for directions. Life seems unstoppable in Shibuya. They don’t seem to care if it's night time already as long as they move.

Shibuya is

Japan

's version of New York Times Square. It is one of the 23 special wards of Tokyo and known as one of the fashion centers of Japan, particularly for young people, and as a major nightlife area too. It is skyscraper traffic out there too with its numerous buildings - from Shibuya's tallest Cerulean Tower to the trendy shopping place of Shibuya 109 up to NTT Docomo Yoyogi Building, the third-tallest building in Tokyo and patterned after the Empire State Building. Hence, I can conclude here that Tokyo is livelier in night time as more action is happening around the city. I find it a unique experience to witness the fast and moving cosmopolitan life in Tokyo.

Roppongi Hills at Night.

The night seems to be young for us at Tokyo as we explore Roponggi, next. Roponggi is another district in Minato, Tokyo. True to what I heard it is famous for, it is home of active night club scene. I saw bars and night clubs sprouting in every corner of Roppongi. The glittering lights and flashes of banners with Japanese characters from lined night clubs of Roppongi only add a colorful character in this district. As I roam to its other side I saw that it is also home of many foreign embassies including ours. Sample the best coffee in one of the many quaint coffee shops while people watching is the simplest way to savor this district of Tokyo. Roppongi is a large district that I didn’t notice passing the famous Roppongi Hills - a massive shopping, housing, and dining complex as well as office spaces and Azabu area which are quieter commercial area of Roppongi Hills but also absorbed some of its vibrant commercial activity and nightlife. One could dream having a luxurious condo unit in Ropponggi Hills and throw private parties but simple flats is reported way too much pricey!

The Tokyo Tower in the city skylines.

My night roaming in Tokyo continues to a visit to Tokyo Tower. The tower is often identified to the city of Tokyo just like Eiffel Tower to Paris. But it is actually a communications and observation tower located in Shiba Park of Minato. Tokyo Tower looks burning at night as it glows in bright orange color lighting. Actually, it was my mom who burst in awe that it looks burning from the ground. Its bright orange color simply standout in the night sky. There's an observation deck where you can have a 360 degree view of Tokyo which is best viewed by night. I appreciate the night view of the city coupled by the glittering lights of the skyline. It somewhat set a romantic mood for me while viewing the city. From the observation decks, there are corners where guide boards are located that will inform you about the view of the tower and retrieval of information regarding the city and the location you are viewing. Tokyo Tower also houses coffee shops, souvenir boutiques, restos, museum and art gallery that makes it attractive for tourists to visit.

At the grounds of Tokyo Tower.

The steel structure of Tokyo Tower.

Tokyo Tower is famous in popular media culture as it is mostly used to locate a scene in Tokyo. In most Japanese animé (cartoons) or TV series that I have watched it is mostly used as a setting of the scene. So visiting the Tokyo Tower made me get some flashbacks of animé scenes that I have watched. I somehow feel that I have entered a scene in a Japanese animé or TV series. And it made me feel that I have stepped into a real life Japanese animé or TV series scene. Because of these strong recalls, it made me feel easily connected to the place. Yet, I will never forget the bright orange glow of the tower amidst the dark sky. The sight of the tower is beholding that it stays in my memory vividly forever.

Tokyo by night was a great way to experience this chic city of

Japan

. I love the sight of Tokyo lit by numerous bright lights and flashes of neon colors. It elicits a moving mood. It makes me feel on the go. This is my firsthand experience of fast-pace urban living in Japan and I find this enigmatic and charming. Yet visiting this beguiling city is a discovery of its lively, artistic downtown neighborhoods and fascinating urban life.

End the night in Toyko at a kaiten-zushi.

But of course, daytime trip to the city has wonders to expect too. Best daytrip sightseeing are visits to Mount Fuji, experiencing cherry blossoms and walking inside the grounds of Sensōji Temple in Asakusa. But for now, I am satisfied being in the oasis of sparkling lights and bustling cosmopolitan night life of Tokyo while munching my crab sushi from a kaiten-zushi.

-------------------------------------------------------

Tokyo by Night is a recollection of my last trip to Tokyo, Japan in November 3-6, 2004 in which I experienced a memorable night tour of the city courtesy of Kuya Sam, a long-time Filipino Tokyo resident we met there. It was one of my last trips to Tokyo after 4 yearly concecutive visits since 2001 which made me missed Japan nowadays... longing for a future trip.

Some of the photos are credited to Thomas Driemeyer and Manisha Mahajan.

Going Places: 3 years of travel, discover, experience and places...

2011-10-12T12:38:00.017+08:00

Going Places is a travel blog with the goal of sharing the best travel experiences in each destination it features in a travel magazine-style and tell-all adventure writing. Each destinations and places featured here is aimed to be discovered and promoted as an ideal travel destination. Travel is one great experience so a chance to see the world is a lifetime opportunity!

This travel blog would also like to encourage travel-trotters and readers to explore the beauty of the Philippines as an ideal travel destination too as there are wonderful 7,107 islands of the country waiting to be explored and experienced. Philippines is beyond the usual, experience it.

The best travel trips is shared with friends! (Puerto Galera, March 2008).

Part of the travel stories is family bonding. (Boracay, April 2008).

Going Places turns 3 this year. This blog started as a personal online diary back in 2004. But in September 2008, this blog rebirths into a full pledge travel blog because of the author's love for travel and writing. So why named and choose Going Places? The word "going" tells an action and moving actively and constantly synonymous to travel or "lakbay" or "byahe" in Filipino which is the essence and type of the blog while "places" refers to the destinations and places itself that this blog adventures and explores with. Going Places' name is a break-away from cliche blog titles to make it unique and one of a kind travel blog.

In 2009, Going Places started campaigning "Going Green", a travel for a cause campaign that promotes Green Travel - a way of travel with social responsibility of taking care and concern to the environment of the place that you are visiting. Learn more about the best of Going Places here.

Going 3! Its time to take travel to the highest level! (Hawaii, August 2010).

This year, Going Places celebrates its 3 years of traveling and sharing the beautiful places it has featured through its travelogues. It's still like a dream that one can't imagine yet there still many goals that Going Places want to achieve. It has maintain it's motto of "travel", "places", "discover" and "experience" as travel lets you have great discoveries and great experiences in life that's why it adapted the slogan - Travel is an experience of a lifetime!

So what are you waiting for? Let's go places! And make travel as an experience of a lifetime!

Travel Show: Where's Tony?

2011-10-03T14:01:00.004+08:00

Where’s Tony? is a weekly travel show which invites you to a wacky and one of a kind adventure. With a list highlighting the top things to see, to try, to eat, to experience and to discover in the featured destination. It is hosted by none other than the witty and wacky DJ of Magic 89.9, Tonytony. With his crazy antics and daring pursuits in trying everything and anything in the name of adventure, you will be guaranteed of a one of a kind travel show.

First airing starts last March, I've been a follower of this show just recently before it ended its Season 1 airing. The charm of this show is not just the beautiful places that are mostly local provinces of the country it covers per episode but also of the wackiness of its fun hosts whose kinda naughty (hehe...), DJ Tonytony. As the teaser says, he will do anything and try everything in the name of adventure, you will expect a comedy-filled travel adventure with all of his crazy antics packed in this travel show!

What is also unique in this travel show is its injection of fun and comedy per episode that you wouldn't find boring to watch while you learn about the places it features. I also like the fact that they do interviews of local people in the province and featuring its local products to give viewers an authentic glimpse of what to expect in the place. They even feature out of the track sites to visit in the province.

TV Teaser

This travel show promises to take you on a wild ride travel experience to amazing destination of the country, from rustic to modern, from simple and mystic remote communities to grand spectacle of cultural festivals. It covers everything and anything that will catch the attention and tickle the curiosity of adventurous Pinoy. Watching this travel show like this has never been this fun and so good!

Legazpi City, Albay episode

Quezon episode

Cebu episode

Where's Tony? airs every Monday, 11:30pm at Studio 23. Tonight, it will air its start of Season 2. Watch it. I highly recommend it for travel lovers! (Update: The show has postponed its pilot episode last night due to weather forecast coming to the country and schedule to resume on October 24, same time at 11:30pm, Monday at Studio 23)

Learn more about Where's Tony? by visiting its website. You may like its Facebook Page or follow it on Twitter.

Going Green: Green Travel 101

2011-09-22T13:11:00.002+08:00

Going Places is for Green Travel! A campaign I started since 2009. I believe this is not only very helpful for us travel lovers and wanderers but also to the places and communities we visit by. But before we go ahead in campaigning for this important cause in travel, let us first get to know what is Green Travel all about.

What is Green Travel? Maybe you already heard about ecotourism, sustainable tourism and responsible travel from various media, magazines and news headlines. Those terms are all part of the many catch phrases of Green Travel.

There are various shades of difference among all these terms, but at the heart of the matter is the importance of protecting the natural and cultural environment of the places you visit. That means conserving plants, wildlife and other resources; respecting local cultures and ways of life; and contributing positively to local communities.

Green Travel, for me is becoming environmentally aware and earth-friendly while on travel. I am environmentally aware by having knowledge of the importance of cleanliness and pollution-free of the places I am visiting both natural and man-made sights and becoming concern for the environmental impact that I may create whether big or small to the place or sight that I am visiting. Practicing earth-friendly living while on travel can be from small ranges like keeping your own trashes, recycling plastics, usage of bikes to large ranges like staying to a green hotels, involving in ecotourism activities, etc that most are easy to practice and remember.

Boracay Beach - one of the places that tend to be overexploited by tourism.

Green Travel, defined by Go Green Travel Green:

1. Thinking about your impact on the environment (both the physical and social environment) when you travel

2. Doing your part to minimize your impact on the environment – so that tourism in your destination can be maintained in the long run.

3. Understanding eco-friendly choices you can make

4. Making eco-friendly choices when they are options

5. Doing your research to be a responsible traveler

6. Saving money by making low-impact choices

Why go green?

With nearly 1 billion tourists crisscrossing the globe every year, it's more important than ever for travelers to minimize their individual impact on the earth's natural and cultural treasures. The potential negative effects of tourism are both local and global; oceanfront hotels contribute to beach erosion in Hawaii, rising numbers of visitors threaten the fragile ecosystems of the Galapagos Islands, and carbon dioxide emissions from planes are a growing contributor to global warming.

Chocolate Hills and Bohol province itself is an ecotourism destination.

Taking a green approach to travel is an easy and essential way to protect the places you love to visit, not just for yourself but for the travelers who come after you and for the people who will continue to live there long after you've flown home. As an added bonus, it often makes for a more rewarding, authentic travel experience, encouraging deeper connections with the people and places you visit.

Contrary to popular belief, you don't necessarily have to pay more in order to travel green. While offsetting the carbon emissions from your air travel will set you back a negligible amount, you can find green lodging options in all budgets, from hostels to luxury hotels. And earth-friendly transportation options like biking, walking and taking public transit are often cheaper than taking a cab or renting a car.(Source)

Going Green in Alaminos City

Why I go for Green Travel? Simply because I want to share to others the beautiful places that I have been and places that I am going to visit in the future in its full glory. You wouldn't want Boracay's beaches or Tagaytay's surroundings be polluted, right? Or the Great Wall of China being eroded and Sydney's Parramatta River dirty? I believe we can preserve these beautiful places by simply practicing green travel. I did a past entry of simple and easy but very effective way to practice green travel tips (click here to see) which is very helpful in campaigning for Going Green.

Also more and more cities and municipalities in our country are campaigning for ecotourism and proper waste management like my recent trip to Alaminos City who is strongly campaigning for Reduce, Reuse and Recycle platform in every street corners. Lastly, Green Travel for me is one effective "travel for a cause" that you can contribute to our community and get something good in return. By practicing this, we don't just show and do a care for the place or country that we are visiting but also a care for our planet Earth.

Learn more about green travel through this online communnity sites:

- Go Green Travel Green

- Green.Travel

Pangasinan Wanderings 2: Treasures of Bolinao

2011-09-12T19:27:00.010+08:00

There are treasures to be found in western Pangasinan. Those treasures that I found were not gems, jewels nor chains of gold. But surprisingly beautiful sights and natural wonders that can only be found in western Pangasinan. These treasures lies in the golden cape and rugged beauty of Bolinao. A place where beautiful sunsets are met against marvelous rock formations by the beach. A place where natural caves are enchanting. And the only place with a beach where the is sand is golden fine.

Travel time to Bolinao is 45 minutes from Alaminos City via bus or van. Travelers can also take a 7 hour road trip via bus from Manila. My travel mates opted to take a van from Alaminos since we just finished visiting Hundred Islands. Upon arrival in Bolinao town proper, we were fetched by our contacted resort’s tricycle. I was surprised that the ride took 45 minutes from the town proper to our resort accommodation at Baranggay Patar.

Sunset in Bolinao.

Bolinao is a 3rd class municipality of the province of Pangasinan. Folk etymology attributes the name "Bolinao" or this remote fishing enclave from the fish piece "monamon" but commonly called "Bolinao" by the Tagalogs, Bicolanos and the Visayans. A theory also points out that once upon a time "pamulinawen" trees grew luxuriantly along its shores, thus, the Ilocano migrants who crossed the Lingayen Gulf named it phonetically similar to the name of the tree. Nowadays, however, such tree does not exist anymore. Legend also relates that during the first days of the Spanish era, a lovely lass nicknamed "Anao" lived at the present site of the town proper. She used to bathe leisurely for hours under the Boli-Bolinao tree where a chieftain's son who lived across the channel first saw her and then wooed. An early marriage ensued but with the condition, among others, that the seat of the chieftain's government be moved to the place where Anao lived. There they were to stay rulers, hence the name of Bolinao, Boli-Bolinao and Anao. (Source)

Our arrival in the resort is just in time for sunset. I don’t want to miss this beautiful phenomena in Bolinao. But sunset is fading fast so I immediately run to the front of the beach to watch my first sunset viewing at Bolinao. I did not mind my travel mates who proceed on doing the usual resort check-in as I marvel at the breathtaking scene of amber glow of sun set against the beach beautifully surrounded with unique rock formations. The amber rays of sunset touching the outlines of the rocks creates a glow effect on it under the siege of night sky. It was an unforgettable sunset of Bolinao that I witnessed.

Good morning Bolinao! Sunrise at Bolinao.

We were so tired from our whole day activity in Alaminos so rest immediately after dinner. The excitement of looking forward to discover Bolinao the next day made me eager to sleep right away. I had a good sleep that night so i woke up early to watch the sunrise. The sunrise of Bolinao is beautiful as its sunset. The morning sun is a refreshing sight in the morning. The glow of sun rays this time is bright and flashing. I went to the resort’s beach front area to fully bask under the sunrise while seeing its full beauty.

The beach front of Solomon’s Paradise Beach Resort (Abrac, Baranggay Patar, Bolinao, Pangasinan, 2406/0905.398.1470 and 0928.474.8845) is true gem. It is because the beach is surrounded by unique rock formations that made the rugged beauty beaches of Bolinao. I fondly call this site at the resort as Solomon Paradise Rock Formation because the only access to these rock formations in through the resort.

Our piece of paradise in Bolinao.

The nipa-style rooms of the resort.

The marvelous beach front of Solomon's Paradise Resort.

Shells in various forms found at the shores of the beach.

Only in Solomon's Paradise...

Natural beach pools.

This rugged beauty of the beach led me to explore it further. The rock formations are in all shapes and sizes. Some are high as a small storey building. While some are low as an average height of a person but has sharp edges. I suspect that these rock formations were eroded sea rocks and formed over a course of time. Some of the rocks even have half submerge caves for visitors to explore. From the tall rising rock formations down to the water submerged rocks, these natural sights continues to awe me. Some of these natural wonders of rock formations create small pools of water by the beach that has varying depths because of its shapes. Though, some are not deep as an average human height, extra carefulness is caution in exploring them as unaware stepping on it might surprise you suddenly like falling to a manhole!

Don't you just love Bolinao?

Stunning rock formations at Solomon Paradise' resort private cove.

The beauty of nature in Bolinao.

Only in Bolinao...

The beach of Solomon’s Paradise is so perfect for photograph souvenirs. These rock formations were perfect backdrops for pictures. I them very scenic and perfect post card photos in every angle view of the sights. I had so much fun with my travel mates while enjoying the view of Bolinao Beach here. What a wonderful sight to see a beach made more scenic with rock formations set against the bluest waters. It was a marvelous sight of the beach that I have only seen in Bolinao.

By 9 am, me and my travel mates were fetched by Mang Celso, the resort’s trusted driver and tour guide to start our exploration of the “treasures” of Bolinao.

Welcome entrance at Enchanted Cave.

The enchanted water is also good for swimming inside the cave.

Enchanted Cave is a natural cave with an enchanting water pool inside its caverns was our first treasure discovery of Bolinao. It is just 5 minutes away from Solomon’s Paradise. Before proceeding to the cave, we were first greeted by the lush green forest garden surrounding the cave. The cave is located above a hilly trail and the entrance step down to the cave is quite steep and small. But the sight of the whole cave below is worth the trail. The nature-made water pool in the main cave cavern is enticing for a swim. One of my travel mates ask the cave guide about why the cave named enchanted. He simply replied, “because the water is enchanted.” I don’t know if he is serious or joking in his reply but I really find the water inside the cave enchanting. Maybe it is enchanted because the water is naturally clean. Just looking at it feels already enchanting because of its natural beauty. The light turquoise water is also very clear that you can see the bottom bed of the cave pool. The guide told us that the water has already been tested ans passed the cleanliness and pollution test making it suitable to drink. I try to feel the enchantment of the water by dipping my feet. Grr, it’s cold! Just like other caves, Enchanted Cave is adorned with numerous stalactites and stalagmites. And while its caverns is beautifully crafted by nature, it main attraction is its pool of enchanted water.

The enchanted water inside the Enchanted Cave.

10 minutes away from Enchanted Cave is the country second tallest lighthouse, the Cape Bolinao Lighthouse. The lighthouse, still located at Patar rises majestically 351 feet above sea level atop Punta Piedra Point, a towering hill of solid rock which is the sharp point of Cape Bolinao itself. It was built by the Americans in 1903 on a 351 feet (107 m) high promontory at the western part of Cape Bolinao. The lighthouse provides a panoramic view of a portion of the 1,269 hectare Cape Bolinao Dendro Thermal Ipil-Ipil Plantation on a land area where archaeological excavations have revealed relics from the 14th to the 15th centuries. Filipino, British and American engineers constructed the lighthouse in 1905.

The Cape Bolinao Lighthouse.

The view from the lighthouse ground point.

Go whacky in Cape Bolinao Lighthouse.

The caretaker of the lighthouse wasn’t there there during our visit so we weren’t able to climb up the lighthouse to see a full view of Cape Bolinao. But nonetheless, I was still able to enjoy the sights around the ground viewing deck of the lighthouse. There’s also a ruined building perfect for vintage souvenir shots. Though there not much to do in the lighthouse aside from viewing, the lighthouse’s historic value makes it a worthy part of itinerary in Bolinao.

It's my first time to see a lighthouse in our country.

The ruin section in the lighthouse is perfect for photography shots.

The next treasure I discover in Bolinao is probably the most treasured sight of Bolinao. This is the golden sand Patar Beach located west of Baranggay Patar. Patar Beach is one of the most distinct beach that I have been becasue of its cream to maize colored sands that makes the beach seems to have specks of gold in its sands. When it is reflected by the sun, Patar Beach glows in almost golden color. I bet Patar Beach would look more spectacular during sunset. The beach is surrounded by numerous private resorts and hotels for accommodation but there is also a public section particularly nipa huts in the beach where we stayed for a day trip.

The golden sands of Patar Beach.

Experience serenity to the fullest...

Picturesque colored bancas at the shores of Patar Beach.

Me and my travel mates arrived at Patar Beach at almost 12 noon. The sun is in its highest place but it didn’t stop me to explore the beach. We heavily trooped at the souvenir stores of the beach first where a wide selection of souvenir mementos of Bolinao are sold like t-shirts, magnets and keychains, of course! Then we went to the native nipa huts where we stayed to rest for a moment while admiring the spectacular Patar Beach. I am surprised that the beach was not crowded during our visit. There were other visitors but only few. It was weekday during our visit. It lead us to think that we own the beach. I am glad that we were the only people there as I appreciated the serenity of almost painting scene of Patar Beach the most.

Cream, maize or gold? The sands of Patar Beach.

Priceless Patar Beach shore.

Marvelous blending of colors of sand and sea.

Only in Patar Beach...

I wander around the wide shore of the beach. I notice how beautiful the cream colored sand blends perfectly to the contrasting cerulean colored ocean of the beach. I also saw post card pictures of bright green and orange bancas docked at the yellow cream beach sands. These beach sights are some of the unique seascapes that I saw in Bolinao. After a few minutes of wandering around and admiring the beauty of the beach, my travelmates invite me to swim. The bright turquiose water is irresistible but I still feel hesitant to swim because the sun is at its highest point at 2pm! But then I give in to the temptation! I swam and enjoyed the beach to the fullest. I didn’t mind the strong tides. I didn’t mind the hot rays of the sun. I didn’t mind getting the sun-kissed skin. The only thing on my mind is to enjoy Patar Beach to the fullest.

Public nipa huts for visitors rest area while at Patar Beach.

I had an exceptional cape of golden treasure experience in Bolinao!

Sidetrip: I missed seeing the other “treasured” sights of Bolinao like Bolinao Falls, Balingasay River and Bolinao Church. But one can still put these sights in your Bolinao itinerary as sidetrips. Bolinao Falls is located in Baranggay Samang Norte. It is approximately 30 minutes from the town proper and goes on a different road away from the main highway that’s why it is mostly not in the itinerary when touring Bolinao beacause of its out-of-way location and distance from the resorts. The waterfall has one of the best large pool perfectly inviting for a swim. Balingasay River is said to be one of the cleanest river in the country. One can take river cruise via pump boats to explore the river and its scenic spots. What you see as you sail along the river are century old and new growth mangrove stands, stretches of attap palms for nipa huts roofing, balete trees hanging into the water, and different species of birds making their home on the top of the trees along the Balingasay. For those who want to explore in the religious and cultural side, Bolinao Church or Church Of St. James Fortress is the best place to see. The Bolinao Church was built by the Augustinians in 1609. It houses wooden statues nowadays a rarity. The antique altar is flanked by two grinning tongue-protruding Aztec visages presumably of Mexican influence and brought over by the Galleon Trade. It 402 years old to date.

Bolinao Falls. (Photo courtesy by keich of flickr)

After 15 minutes, we went back to Solomon Paradise Resort to have our lunch and prepare for our return back home. Patar Beach is just five to seven minutes from the resort. By 4pm, we were in Bolinao town proper and we just learned that the bus that directly plies to Manila. So we opted to take a van going to Alaminos and there take a bus ride to Manila. We departed at 7pm from Alaminos and arrived 12 midnight in Pasay.

I had an exceptional cape of golden treasure experience in Bolinao. I did not find any gems, jewels or chains of gold in Bolinao. Specks of gold in Patar Beach’s sand maybe. But from golden sunsets to golden beach sands, I certainly did find the real treasures of Bolinao in its beauty of nature and marvelous wonders.

-------------------------------------------------------

Treasures of Bolinao is part of my Pangasinan Wanderings two series story happened last July 3-4. Also do read the first part of the series - Alaminos' Hundred Charms.

A hui hou, Hawaii!

2011-08-31T10:41:00.006+08:00

It is exactly a year already since my first visit to Hawaii and yet the fresh breeze of its paradise is still in my heart. It timeless charm continues to draws visitors year after year. The beaches are numerous but incomparable enough for an ideal vacation. It is beach overload in Hawaii. The natural sights are endless to explore and to appreciate. From volcano, rock formations, cliff views up to its rich marine wildlife, it is worth to discover. Its history, culture and heritage is unique and interesting. It even played a significant role in World War II. While it also has a city vibe, it has a natural wonders a few meters away. But if you opt for a cultural experience, Hula shows is just a around the corner. And if it is shopping you are looking for, Hawaii is rich in luxurious shopping malls, boutiques up to the cheapest sale shops and "tiangge" if that's what you call that "haggle-all-you-can" stalls. That's why I tagged Hawaii as a "a real paradise" on Earth. It is an ideal travel destination that offers distinct experiences. It entices and warmly invites everyone to its paradise. A dream destination for every travelers as it has everything that every travelers are looking for in a destination.

And I am one of those who fall in love with Hawaii. I love the warm people and the perfect tropical weather that has similarity to ours. And the cuisines are likeable too! Not to mention, the endless place to see in the whole state. Truly, it lives to its timeless charm of a welcoming paradise. It gets you fall in love with it. No wonder, because its famed greeting "Aloha" means love. And in Hawaii, it is Aloha today, tomorrow and always! I love you Hawaii and I miss you... until we meet again... A hui, hou, Hawaii!

Learn more about how hard it is to say goodbye to my Aloha experience, here.

Going 7

2011-08-25T04:05:00.007+08:00

Going Places turns 3 this year. This blog started as a personal online diary back in 2004. But in September 2008, this blog rebirths into a full pledge travel blog because of my love for travel and writing. Tripbase, an online travel community started this My 7 Links project with a goal to unite bloggers in a joint endeavor to share lessons learned and create a bank of long but not forgotten blog posts that deserve to see the light of day again. I have been tagged twice to do this project and though this is late already, I think the My 7 Links project and goal should go on to share the best blast from the past of bloggers archive.

Travel is an experience of a lifetime!

This 7 links to the past is a good way to celebrate Going Places 3rd year in the travel blogsphere. A good way to make a recollection of some of the best blog posts that I made and what this blog has been through in the recent years. Here is my Going 7 blast from the past...

1. The most beautiful post I made is Travel is an experience of a lifetime, not because this about the most beautful place that I have been but the most beautiful realization that I had whenever I travel. This is so meaningful to me but I also do believe to every travel blogger as well. This reflection that I had especially during my Bohol trip is so beautiful that I adapt it as my travel blog’s slogan! Don’t you agree with me?

2. Alluring Alona is actually among the most popular post that I made. But I find it the most popular post not only because it has the most number of comments but it also has the most number of travel bloggers and visitors to comment in my last installment of Bohol series. That’s how alluring Alona is!

Alluring Alona

3. The most controversial post – Going Feedback. I made this post during the time when I feel so down about my writing skills. I got to consecutive article rejections from a publisher and it made me evaluate those stories that I have written. I am looking where I went wrong but I am surprised by the inspiring and helpful comments of my fellow travel bloggers. This could be not the most controversial one but for me it is.

4. The most helpful post – Going Green. Two years ago, Going Places has been strongly campaigning of doing “Green Travel”. It means that as we travel to different places we also do social responsibility of taking care and be concern to the environment of the place that we are visiting and promotes eco-tourism sites of the places. I made this post because I felt I needed to give something back to the community that I believe the most helpful one. By Green Travel, you just don’t enjoy the places you travel but you also do something good for our planet Earth.

Every province in the country should practice this like in Pangasinan!

5. A post whose success surprise me is my Vietnam Diary series. I never thought that these posts about Vietnam will trigger me to be a full-time travel blogger. It’s success surprise me because since then it didn’t stop me from writing about travel and places! The Vietnam Diary series is my very first travel post and the birth of Going Places.

My first travel story shared - Vietnam!

6. A post that I feel did not get the attention it deserves is the Hula in Hawaiian Sunset. Hawaiian sunset is stunning and breathtaking and the Hula is one of the most interesting cultural heritage of Hawaii. Seeing it all in one full afternoon made one of my most unforgettable day in Hawaii. An so I feel it deserves a second look.

The beautiful Hawaiian Sunset deserves a second look.

The Hula Girl experience.

7. The post that I am most proud of is Bohol: Allure of Natural Beauty because this trip happened on my birthday and on that day I get to do one of my passion in life – travel! I get to travel for the first time in my birthday. And how proud could it be when you’re doing your one of your passions in life on your special day! And to make it a highly milestone day, I travel via Philippine Airlines who on that day soars to 70 years as Asia’s first airline. Called it a birthday threat, but I am really making “bawi” on my birthday as a year before, I had a “black birthday” becuase I was retrenched from work. It is also in this trip that I realize that travel is an experience of a lifetime!

Meeting the Tarsier on my birthday is awesome!

I would like to give my deepest appreciation to Ca de Ramos of Adventurous Feet and Marx of Marxtermind for nominating me to share this 7 links from the past of Going Places. This is a great celebration for my travel blog’s 3rd year anniversary. Thank you so much! Further, to set the chain reaction to continue this 7 links sharing, I am nominating not 5 from the rule but 7 fellow bloggers to also share their 7 links of blast from the past of their travel blogs.

Here they are...
1. Claire Raborar of Lakwatsera de Primera
2. Oman of Lawstude's Journey
3. Shelyn Siew of Travel and Living Bliss
4. Chyng Reyes of No Spam, No Virus, No Kiddin'!
5. Anton of Pusang-kalye
6. Jerik de Guzman of Pinoy Boy Journal
7. Karla Brazil of As told by Karla

I hope you enjoy reading!

Who is the real Tarsier? Part 2

2011-08-14T14:58:00.002+08:00

Due to popular (and unsolicit) demand and funny comments I got from its first post, I am giving this post a second limelight to look back on the wonderful memories I had on my first trip in Bohol. But this time, its the "making" of "Who is the real Tarsier?" There's an imitation wall of the Tarsier where you can slip you face and hand so that you can have a memorable souvenir picture of imitating the famed primate of Bohol in the Tarsier sanctuary that we toured during our Bohol Countryside tour last March.

I am hesitant at first trying to do the "Tarsier Moment". It was a funny thing to do so I had blopper pictures where I can't get a full concentration of what I am doing on the wall's hole.

Though, I try to concentrate, the sort of fun in doing this made me laugh whenever I slip my face on the wall and do the "Tarsier Moment." At least I only made a small attention to other visitors.

Even my sister tried it as well. Then, for the last time, I try to mock the Tarsier. I slip my face on the wall's hole, enlarge my eyes as large as possible to imitate the big round eyes of the Tarsier and extend my hand limbs to the fullest so I can have an authentic look of the Tarsier.

The result is... who is the real Tarsier now?

The tarsiers seemed to agree that I perfectly did the "Tarsier Moment" or else the "evil" Tarsier will get me!

The evil Tarsier! haha...

Don't forget that the main purpose of touring the Tarsier Sanctuary is spreading the awareness and concern about preserving the population of one of the unique primate species endemic in Bohol, which is the endangered Philippine Tarsier. If you have got a chance to visit the santuaries in Bohol, please do make even a small donations for the volunteers and for the sanctuary who are working for the preservation of these cute Tarsiers.

More about my Tarsier encounter here.

Pangasinan Wanderings: Alaminos' Hundred Charms

2011-08-03T02:09:00.015+08:00

It would be impossible to wander the whole 7,107 islands of the Philippines at the same time. But seeing 100 islands of those 7,107 is an opportunity I will surely wouldn’t miss. So when I crave to explore a nearby province in Luzon with friends, I immediately thought of exploring one of the region’s famed destination in the north – The Hundred Islands of Pangasinan.

Pangasinan is located on the west central and peripheral area of the island of Luzon along the Lingayen Gulf. The name Pangasinan means "land of salt" or "place of salt-making"; it is derived from the words "Pang", meaning for and "asin", meaning salt, or "For Salt" in the Pangasinan language and other related languages, owing to the rich and fine salt beds which were the prime source of livelihood for the province’s coastal towns. The province of Pangasinan is composed of 44 municipalities, 4 cities and 1,364 barangays.

100 of 7,107 islands of the Philippines

The jumping point is Alaminos City – home of the Hundred Islands. I embarked on a 6 hour bus trip on the road that started in the early hours of the morning to reach Alaminos. Some travellers will find it a grueling road trip as the long hours of seating in the bus is tiring and boring. But the scenic roads of Pangasinan will definitely not bore your eyes as I myself find it an indulgence to the sense of sight.

The Hundred Islands from Lucap Wharf

Alaminos is a coastal city in western Pangasinan. Covering an area of 1,844 hectares, the islands are believed to be 2 million years old. There are actually 123 islands, only 25 of them are named, only three have been developed for tourism, and many are still unexplored. All of the 25 islands can be visited, provided that the boatman agrees. So its better to plan your plan your itinerary to the islands and see the island route of the boatman first before jumping on an island tour.

The Hundred Islands National Park is located in Alaminos City. The islands are actually ancient corals that extend well inland, in an area previously comprising the seabed of an ancient sea. Lowering sea levels have exposed them to the surface and the peculiar "mushroom"-like shapes of some of the islands have been caused by the eroding action of the ocean waves.

Island-bound banca...

1 of the 123 islands of Hundred Islands National Park.

The beauty of nature in Hundred Islands.

Lucap Wharf is the jumpoint of the island hopping tour where all the arrangement, registration and price rates availment are made. It is accessible via tricycle and 15 minutes from Alaminos town proper. Around the wharf are numerous transient houses, inns and hotels for those who opts to stay in Alaminos. Me and my colleagues choose to do a day trip to the Hundred Islands.

From Lucap Wharp, we sailed for 15 minutes to reach Hundred Islands National Park. Seeing the islands much nearer is an explosion of beauty of nature in my eyesight! The lush greens, gray rock formations and white sand beach cove set against the bluest water is a marvelous beauty of nature that can only be found in Pangasinan. The scattered islands seemed to be formed millions of years ago with a purpose of being a natural beauty that the province can be prouf of. Each frame of view of the islands in my sight are so scenic that all I can do is marvel and appreciate it. It is Alaminos’ hundred charms worth to explore.

Welcome to Governor's Island!

Meeting the real house of "Kuya"

Majestic views of Hundred Islands in front PBB House.

Beautiful beach of Governor's Island.

A few minutes of sail, we reach our first island stop – Governor’s Island. It is one of the three most developed islands in the national park. This is where I met the real house of “Kuya.” The house was purposely built as the finale setting of the reality TV series Pinoy Big Brother Teen Edition in 2006. The front of the house has a majestic view of the Hundred Islands. The view is perfect backdrop for photoshoots. I wouldn’t mind staying in an island house if every morning I get this kind of majestic views. The house now serves as a popular landmark in Governor’s Island. It can be rented for an overnight stay in the island as well complete with all the amenities of a transient house. We explored the island and in doing so we discovered more than about Kuya’s house.

There are coves in Governor’s Island that has fine white sand beaches which are ideal for swimming. The island’s beach seems enticing to swim but our guide led us to a hiking trail atop a hill-like rock formation to see a 360 degree view of the Hundred Islands National Park. The view of the islands atop is more majestic than the front view of the Pinoy Big Brother house. I can almost see the entire hundred islands in one whole sight or shall I say I entirely see the 100 of 7,107 islands of the Philippines! It was a beautiful view of the Hundred Islands that lingers long in my mind and worth the tiring hike.

I love Hundred Islands!!!

A 360 degree view of the national park awaits at the hill-top view of Governor's Island.

Can I name this my island?

The famous view of Hundred Islands.

Our visit to Governor’s Island ended with a sightseeing of a cave at the back of the island. The cave is big enough for people to enter and has a narrow body but there is nothing to see inside, just appreciation of the cave itself.

The next stop is supposed to be Ramos Island but its cove is small that only 2 bancas can dock at the same time. There were already visitors in the island so we just passed by on it. Ramos Island is famous for being the site location of TV series, Marina.

The trail down the viewing deck at Governor's Island.

Governor's Island's cave.

A simple reminder of Going Green in Marcos Island.

The next island we explored first greeted us with its nice beach cove and named after the most popular politcal family in the country - Marcos Island. The beach cove of Marcos Island is ideal for swimming but the main feature of the island is the jump challenge at Marcos Cave. You need to do a little hike within the island to see the cave. Marcos Cave has a very wide cavern where visitors can jump from a platform and fall directly to an inland pool connected to the sea. I find it a real challenge because the jumping point is so high that I chicken out jumping into the cave pool! While my travelmates, dare to try it, I just opt to take their photos and later I explored the sightseeing point of the island while waitig for them to swam back to the beach cove.

Pristine beach cove at Marcos Island.

The challenging Marcos Cave where I chicken out!

Girls are brave, I concluded. Enjoying a swim in pool lagoon of Marcos Cave.

Home sweet home - Bats in Bat Island.

Bat Island is our fourth stop. The main feature of the island are the bats themselves who inhabiting the islands’ tree branches. All of them were making a squeking sound as we approach the island adjoined by their distinct smell. I wonder how they resist staying under the sun as the heat rays are strong that morning. Bancas can’t dock at Bat Island are there are no docking area in the island.

Quezon Island from our boat.

Quezon Island's developed amenities for tourists and visitors.

We sail next to Quezon Island – the island where we stayed the longest among the islands of Hundred Islands. This is where you can do many activities that you shouldn’t miss as Quezon Island is a playground to water sports and adventure-seekers. There is kayaking, sports fishing, snorkeling and swimming of course! Arriving in Quezon Island, we were greeted by a wonderful beach cove where beside it is an enclosed Clam Garden where live Giant Clams are being taken care of. I would like to do a closer look of the giant clams but the garden prohibits diving in the garden, thus I just contented of looking at it for the first time. My tavelmates explore further the island and we discover rock formation grottoes facing a beautiful view of the islands perfect for photoshoot, coral reef garden which are ideal for snorkeling and Quezon Island’s second beach cove which is good for play, swim and relaxation. Quezon Island also has beautiful cabanas and nipa huts to rent for day trip visitors. It is very ideal for family outings, lunch with friends and other gatherings.

The Giant Clam Garden at Quezon Island.

A closer look at the Giant Clam and friends!

Another island near Quezon Island.

White sand beach of Quezon Island.

Magazine-cover worthy picture of Quezon Island.

We love Hundred Islands!!! - Swim like no other in Quezon Island.

This scene of Hundred Islands makes you forget all your stress and worries.

I spent most my time swimming with my travelmates in Quezon Islands’ second beach cove because of its secluded aura. There were almost no people except us who were at the beach. I felf as if we own the beach by ourselves to enjoy. Half part of the cove it shaded by tall trees so no worry about having a sun-kissed skin! (sunburn). It was here we swim, swim and swim like no other! Also here in Quezon Island, I find it unique that while swimming in its beach, I get a spectacular view of the islands from afar. It was so scenic that it lingers in my mind and at times I just find myself half submerged in the shallow water of the beach, relaxing and admiring the beauty of the islands from afar.

Just relax all day long...

Cove of pure bliss at Quezon Island.

Children's Island.

Famed for its shallow waters, ideal for swimming with kids, we hop next to Children’s Island. It is the last of the most developed islands in the national park that we visited. There were also cabanas and nipa huts for rent while staying in Children’s Island. The island were crowded by groups of families when we visited so we just opt not to swim in its beach and proceed to our next island stop.

Alaminos' hundred charms - The Hundred Islands from Cuenco Cave viewing area.

Cuenco Cave is the last stop of our island hopping in Hundred Islands. I believe the cave belongs to Cuenco Island. The cave is hidden in between three islands. Cuenco Cave has a wide entrance and large in structure that make me think it is the lair of monster Kraken from Clash of the Titans movie. Once we enter the cave we were greeted by the cool breeze of the sea which was so good when it damped on my skin. As I walked inside, I admire t1he fascinating unique rock formations and limestones surrounding the caverns, and ceilings of Cuenco Cave. When we reached the other end of the cave, it was an exit to a stunning view of Hundred Islands. After having souvinir photos of Cuenco Cave, we returned to the entrance again. This time a different but another stunning view of the Hundred Islands can be seen. The view was made more stunning with the outline frame of Cuenco Cave entrance.

Release the Kraken!!! - Cuenco Cave entrance.

Inside Cuenco Cave.

The other side opening of Cuenco Cave has an equally beautiful view.

Cuenco Cave memories...

The beauty of Hundred Islands.

It was the end of our island hopping tour of the Hundred Islands. We returned to Lucap Wharf by 2 in the afternoon. Then, we shop for sourvenirs at Pantalan just near the wharf before going to a local mall to have our late lunch.

It would be really impossible to see all of the 7,107 islands of the Philippines at the same time. But in Alaminos, seeing 100 of them is possible! You just have to widely stretch your eyes in Hundred Islands to see it. I’m proud to have seen these hundred gems of Pangasinan whom the province highly prided. I get to have an exceptional island hopping adventure and I never experience these kind of hundred natural beauties in one trip! Alaminos’ hundred charms is truly the Hundred Islands and when you say its hundred, it also means hundred gateaways to hundred beaches, hundred coves, hundred snorkeling sights, hundred sport activities, hundred scenic seascapes, hundred caves, hundred sightseeings and hundred adventures!

---------------------------------------------------

Alaminos' Hundred Charms is part of my Pangasinan Wanderings two series story happened last July 3-4. Please also do read the second part of the series - Treasures of Bolinao.

Who is the real Tarsier?

2011-07-24T13:20:00.004+08:00

One of the tours included in the countryside tour of Bohol is a visit to a Tarsier Sanctuary. One of its messages is spreading the awareness and concern about preserving the population of one of the unique primate species endemic in Bohol, which is the endangered Philippine Tarsier. After seeing the cute and cuddly Tarsiers around the visitor's area, there's an imitation wall of the Tarsier where you can slip you face and hand so that you can have a memorable souvenir picture of imitating the famed primate of Bohol. This is was very popular among the visitors of the sanctuary. And so I try to mock the Tarsier. I slip my face on the wall's hole, enlarge my eyes as large as possible to imitate the big round eyes of the Tarsier and extend my hand limbs to the fullest so I can have an authentic look of the Tarsier. The result is... who is the real Tarsier?

More about my Tarsier encounter here.

Antipolo's Real Cove

2011-07-12T16:43:00.009+08:00

Enjoying the leisure with nature is the treat that I had when I visited Antipolo's Real Cove Resort in Rizal for a company teambuilding last May. The trip was a good opportunity to rediscover Antipolo again and the province of Rizal as a good nearby metropolis destination for Summer.

Antipolo's Real Cove.

It took us a 2-3 hours drive from Manila to reach Antipolo, Rizal. Real Cove Resort is located along Provincial Road, Brgy. Dalig, near Antipolo - Teresa boundary of Antipolo City. While traveling on the road, I can already see the resort's imposing landmark - a billboard size name of the resort on the top of a very visible mountain top. This just made me excited for teambuilding that we were going to have in the resort later.

The resort is located at the base of the mountain and basically hilly. But what I like about its surroundings is its trees and plant abounded surroundings that makes the place cooler even on high summer day. The tall trees that gives instant shades from the hot rays of the sun were refreshing in sight and very nature inspired place. This is a true testament to the resorts' slogan - enjoying the leisure with nature.

Teambuilding mates.

Welcome to Real Cove!

Here's a little bit of background about Antipolo and Rizal. Antipolo is a city in located in the province of Rizal; about 25 kilometers east of Manila. It is the largest city in the Calabarzon Region in terms of population. The city is popular for being a pilgrimage site. It prides itself as the "Pilgrimage Capital of the Philippines." The Marian image of the Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage or the Virgin of Antipolo, which was brought in from Mexico in 1626, and enshrined in the Antipolo Cathedral has a continuous following among Filipino Catholics since the Spanish era. Its higher elevation than that of Metro Manila affords it a scenic view of the metropolis, especially at night. The city was named after the tipolo (breadfruit) tree (Artocarpus incisa), which was in abundance in the area. (Source)

Meanwhile, Rizal is a province that made the CALABARZON Region , just 16 kilometers east of Manila. The province was named after the country's national hero, José Rizal. Rizal is bordered by Metro Manila to the west, the province of Bulacan to the north, Quezon to the east and Laguna province to the south. The province also lies on the northern shores of Laguna de Bay, the largest lake in the country. Rizal is a mountainous province perched on the western slopes of the southern portion of the Sierra Madre mountain range. (Source)

One of the public pools of the resort.

Grill time!!!

Grilled fish, perfect for chow time.

Our teambuilding started with registration first. Then, we prepared our things in our room assignment. After we settled in, I helped in preparation of our food. Grilling is the best way of cooking in this kind of event - and grilling of all sorts of food - fish, squid, hot dogs and pork barbecue, of course!

We also had a private pool near our private room area where we are the only one who can use it but we are also allowed to use the other 2 public pools of the resort at our own leisure.

Extreme swimming time!

After we had our meal, we started our teambuilding games. But before we the games we had to do a team cheer first. During the program, we had three games - Pinoy Henyo, Family Feud and Amazing Race, in which all of my team mates won. Hurray! I highly enjoyed Amazing Race among the team games that we had. I had a chance to play like in my favorite reality TV Show - The Amazing Race - with all the runs and stride, puzzle solving clues and doing extreme challenges!

I ended my night together my colleagues on a relaxing night swimming while the others opt to sing in the video karaoke all-night long.

I'm proving myself not a couch potato - all smiles at the start of trek but later...

The following day, I woke up with a painful body. This is what I get from last night's exhausting and over the edge swimming activity due to excitement! Despite of muscle aches all over my body, I need to wake up early to grab the opportunity of the morning's good atmosphere for a mountain hiking. Real Cove has a 400 step mountain hike that is a very good activity within the resort's facilities. The resort sits on the base of a mountain which the resort also owns. The steps are paved and guided so you won't be lost when you reach the summit.

If you think a couch potato can do it, think again. The 400 step is an extreme challenge! I started on 50 step first lap together with my colleagues who want to try hiking too. While the steps are pave, the heat of summer sun and no air breeze along the trail made it difficult and hot. Yet I'm glad that with all the sweats I had, I loose a lot of calories!!!

We're almost there - 2 more laps to go!

Some of my hiking colleagues enjoying the hike adventure.

After 400 steps!

The beautiful view of Rizal and Antipolo at the top.

I'm flying!!!

Beautiful mountain ranges can be seen at the top of the viewing area.

The summit at the top was rewarding. I got a 360 degree mountaintop view of Rizal province and Antipolo. There is a lush greenery view of the mountain ranges and hills of the surrounding areas at the top. A clear bluish sky also greeted us at the top. This is now where a cool mountain breeze blows. Even I had a weary body after the hike, I appreciate the imposing view at the top. This relaxing view is a great reward after 400 steps!

I'm not a couch potato - I reach the finish line!

The hiking trail down.

The trail down the mountain prove to be difficult this time, as the steps are quite steep and the view is nauseating. But with guided and moderate steps, I managed to finish the hike down. After a total of 800 steps of hiking - up and down the mountain, I felt a need to rest. But my colleague invited me to do a garden walk at the back of the resort. The resort had a shady gardens perfect for afternoon chats and nature explorations. This is also near the trail of ATV Rides that the resort is also offering. The garden is nice and perfect for souvenirs photos.

Garden walk at Real Cove.

Antipolo Cathedral.

After a quite long rest, the company's service fetch us. Since there still enough time, we asked for a sidetrip to Antipolo Cathedral. While the cathedral is famous for the Catholic devotees, it is also famous for being the shrine of Marian icon, Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage (Nuestra Senora de la Paz Y Buenviaje). According to history, the icon, after repeated safe journeys between Mexico and the Philippines early in the 17th century, became known as the heavenly protector of Spain’s galleons.You can view the history and artifacts about it, offered a prayer and touch the icon on a separate backdoor trail of the cathedral. We did this after a short attendance to an ongoing mass. You can also buy candle and icon souvenirs and have it bless within the grounds of the church. Outside the grounds, there are numerous tiangges selling popular pasalubongs from Antipolo like cashews and suman – a local delicacy made out of sticky rice.

We drove for 2 and a half hours back to Manila after. I have a leisure nature trip in Antipolo and though with a weary and tired body, I appreciate these discoveries in Rizal that made my last escapade of Summer 2011 a memorable one... 'til next summer.

Real Cove Resort
Provincial Road, Brgy. Dalig,
(near Antipolo - Teresa Boundary), Antipolo City, Rizal
For booking and inquiries - 710-6054/994-3616/0922-8452844/0917-8809628/0920-9513970

The 50th State!

2011-07-03T12:35:00.000+08:00

Hawaii is the 50th state of United States of America. It became an official state of US in August 1959. It is the only U.S. state made up entirely of islands and adopts the motto, "The Life of the Land is Perpetuated in Righteousness." Hawaii is an archipelago of over nineteen distinct volcanic islands located over a geological "hot spot" in the Central Pacific. There are eight major islands, six of which are open to tourism - Hawaii (Big Island), Oahu, Maui, Kauai, Molokai and Lanai. Hawaii’s natural beauty, warm tropical climate, inviting waters and waves, and active volcanoes make it a popular destination for tourists, surfers, biologists, and volcanologists alike.

Now that's a bit of history and information perfect for curious travelers to Hawaii and USA and just suited in time for the celebration of the America's independence day tomorrow. While the state flag of Hawaii looks like a Union Flag of UK or having a part of it because it was once a British protectorate, its stripe colors of red, white and blue is very American. While touring the grounds of Pearl Harbor during my Hawaii trip, I have found these flags of state of Hawaii and USA, side by side and reminding us that Hawaii is a state of USA.

More about Hawaii here.

Romantic beach wedding in Matabungkay

2011-06-20T16:40:00.012+08:00

The beach is one of the most romantic places to hold a wedding, and no place is more romantic than the resort beaches of Matabungkay, Batangas. The timelessness of ivory white sand and vast ocean makes for cherished memories for one of the most unforgettable milestones in one's life.

I was invited by a friend to attend to her beach wedding in Matabungkay, Lian, Batangas last Summer 2010. This was her dream wedding, she told me. It was my first time to attend a beach wedding so I was excited for her and eager to attend the event. It was not only a chance to witness an unusual wedding ceremony but it was also an opportunity for me to discover Batangas. I had long heard how wonderful the beaches down there.

Romantic beach wedding.

Shadows on sand dunes.

Welcome to Matabaungkay!

To attend the event, my friends and I took a road trip to the town of Lian where Matabungkay is located. The road was very scenic. We took the road via Tagaytay where we passed the magnificent Taal Lake and Taal Volcano, misty and surrounded by mountains. We saw pineapple and sugarcane farms and other scenes of rural life typical of the Southern Tagalog region - a boy riding a paragos, a low sledge pulled by a carabao; a man tending his field of red peppers and beans.

Matabungkay is reasonably accessible and nearer than the other beach town in Batanags. Roads are quickly accessed. when we arrived at Matabungkay Beach Resort and Hotel, the summery resort atmosphere that greeted us and the fresh air of the sea was pleasant and invigorating.

Summer 2010.

The summery view from the beach cabana.

Matabungkay is a tourist destination because of its ivory white sand beaches that are easily accessible from Manila. It has a small coral reef about 50 meters from the low tide mark in the center of the cove which diverts the waves beautifully and creates some that on good days you could go body surfing on.

Matabungkay Beach Reasort and Hotel is one of the popular beach resorts in Matabungkay. It offers perfect wedding-by-the-beach packages and facilities, amenities and services designed to fit the needs of a "just married" couple. No wonder my friend chooses to have her wedding celebrated here.

Margarita, please...

We stayed in a beach-front cabana that had a terrace facing the long stretch of the beach. A view of the horizon glowing in hues of red and amber set a portentous tone for out stay in Batangas, one that promised good things. Moments later, the sky turned dark violet as the night began to emerge.

As soon as I unpacked my clothes, I immediately went for a stroll on the beach with my friends. It was dark already but the stretch of the white sand beach was lit by lamp posts lining the shore. There were few people on the beach and it was quiet except for the occasional murmur of voices (lovers maybe?) and the sound of the water as it hit the sand.

Matabungkay Beach.

We dined together with the soon-to-be-wed couple and their families. We shared stories and as expected, the bride and the groom got a lot of ribbing and were subjected to many embarrassing stories about the "sins" of their past. There was a also a lot of talk about the wedding that was to be held the next day.

After dinner, we all adjourned to the Wave Music Lounge, the resort's premier bar for some karaoke singing. The bar was decorated in dreamy waves and hues in blue. I toasted my friends with a Margarita and wished them a future as harmonious as the ying and the yang of the sweet and sour liquid and salt in my glass. My friend said, "duh," but they drank to my toast which was all that mattered. I didn't drink hard alcohols and all we did is sing and enjoy the night before the wedding. It was a wonderful way to end the evening.

Balsa experience...

Enjoying summer to the fullest!

An early morning stroll exploration of the beach was my first activity the following day. The tide at Matabungkay beach is constantly on low ebb so it is easy to swim and poke around. The sea teems with marine life - brittle stars, sea grasses and starfish that were easy to spot in the low tide waters.

A local offered us an island hopping tour on his pump boat plus a visit to a remote cove where we could swim. He was charging only 400 pesos. The prospect was tempting. We could see waves in the distance while the ocean breeze called for a brisk boat ride in the open sea. I could discover adventures in the islands beyond with my friends, but alas, we did not have enough time and had to turn down the very reasonable offer.

A romantic sunset during the beach wedding.

I suggested instead that we relax in one of the floating "balsa" or bamboo rafts on the water. The raft had a roof made of nipa and had a table and a bench in the middle of it. It was big enough for at least fifteen people. It was a good place for a lunch or snack with your companions as it had a spectacular view of the sea, sky, hills, beach and green mountains of Matabungkay.

We had fun taking pictures on the raft, especially with the starfish that one of my friends had picked-up from among the sea grass at the sea floor. However, the best part of the "balsa experience" for me was relaxing under the hut, being rocked by the motions of the sea and feeling one with the splendor around me of the majestic view of the ocean right in front of my sight.

Happily ever after...

By noon, I rested in preparation for the wedding ceremony which would start at five o'clock that afternoon. . From our cabana, I could see the beach area that was being set-up for the ceremony and reception. The motif color was red, my friend's favorite color. There were bouquets of red roses on every table in the reception area that made it look classier and intimate.

The ceremony began just as the sun began to dip, setting the romantic mood for beach wedding. The sky is now turned golden orange as my friend and her husband exchanged vows of eternal love. The beach was later lighted with torch fired adding even more romance to the atmosphere. The wedding ended with cake served with red wine while we listened to bossa nova songs played by a live band. It was a memorable wedding night and a splendid celebration of love!

The bridesmaids.

Sumptuous dinner!

Congratulations!

A wonderful way to end the romantic evening...

I heard other fame beach towns in Batangas like Anilao, San Juan, Calatagan and Punta Fuego as other must-visits. Perhaps I could visit them on a next opportunity to discover it or perhaps on another attendance to a wedding by the beach. A beach wedding is really a wonderful way to start a life of wedded bliss. I myself am not getting getting married anytime soon, but I dream of the same such romantic beach wedding too. But for others out there, couples dreaming of an unforgettable wedding, it is not too late to become a June bride and groom.

Going Feedback

2011-06-13T16:08:00.009+08:00

I started travel writing in 2008, and since then I continue to strive hard and to improve my writing to be love by any blog reader and visitors. I love writing and I'm passionate about it so I want to continue improving on it. While, I know I commit mistakes, shortcomings and flaws in writing (And I hope not all the time like grammar glitches) but I do believe in room for improvement. Now, since I have decent number followers and readers here, I think this is the good time to listen to my readers. I need your feedback in my travel writing style.

Was it becoming too tourism brochure-style type of writing like loaded of too much information and background? Was it lacking in English mastery and fuse with grammar errors? Was the content full of metaphors and vocabulary words that are not easily understood? Was the posts becoming a long write-up? Or was it becoming too personal writing like a diary with some unnecessary information and details? These are just some of the questions that I need feedback. Any reaction or comments will definitely be considered and help in my writing improvement.

Here in Going Places, the goal of writing is to share the best travel experiences in each destination I have been. It won't be achieve if travel stories shared here were not effectively absorb to the senses of the readers. And since I aim for a travel magazine-style and tell-all adventure writing, I hope your feedback will be able to help me spice-up, enhance and improve my travel writing.

All of your feedback will be appreciated!

Alluring Alona

2011-05-24T22:03:00.022+08:00

One of the most alluring natural beauty of Bohol is simply its beaches. And no place these beaches can be found than in Bohol's beach heartland - Panglao Island. The alluring Alona Beach is one of its gem that will surely entice any beach-lover or sun-worshipers to its shores. A beach full of picturesque seascape and serene ambiance like no other. From morning to midday sun up to sunset, Alona's 800 meter stretch of white powdery sand, in the south of Panglao Island never fails to create a relaxing mood, de-stressing therapy and reinvigorating spirit as it induces all-time authentic tranquility.

Alluring Alona.

Alona Beach in the morning...

Alona all by yourself...

An early morning stroll by the beach is one of the best thing that you can do to enjoy Alona Beach. Morning is the best time to do beach strolling as this is the time that you seem to owned the beach all by yourself. But I noticed that even in midday sun, Alona Beach still seem not much crowded like other public beaches I have been before. The shores is fringed with numerous tall palm coconut trees that makes me think I'm placed in a secluded paradise. The pure white sand is enticing for a stroll and play by the beach. While, the layers of shades of blue ocean water dotted with white bancas (outrigger boat) creates a real-life and life-sized painting-like scenery that is very tranquil and serenity feast on my eyes. These picturesque scenes are all beach therapy for me on my last day in Bohol, and surely for anyone who has a weary soul that searches for invigoration and relaxation.

Starfishes often bound to be seen a few meters from the shore. I truly enjoyed picturing them in the clear waters. And I would often see them in red and blue colors that are perfectly striking from beneath the submerge white sands of Alona. At times, you also see various sea fishes swimming around. This just proves to me that Bohol never ends in richness of natural wonders.

Alona is calling you..

Portrait of pure serenity.

The ocean background is like a huge painting with those bancas hanging like toys.

Pure shores.

Exploring the west side of Alona brings me to the huge and diverse coral stone formations standing as low as 3 feet and as high as 10 feet. These coral stones have sharp edges but wonderfully crafted by nature because it was naturally shaped and placed near the shores. A stair-shaped rocks were made behind and I obliged to climbed up and see what I can see up there. The flocking trees above it makes a perfect refuge from the hot summer sun. It was there from above a cliff viewing area I have seen the best view of Alona - a spectacular seascape where the blue ocean is dotted with seemingly uniform white colored bancas set alongside the white sand beach and coral rock formations by the shore. It was a seascape of Alona Beach that I won't forget.

Me in the shores of alluring Alona Beach.

Alona is most likely the most visited and most beautiful of the beaches in Panglao. The beach has a nice line of resorts for visitors to choose from. There are many full-service beach and dive resorts reside in Alona Beach. Dive tours to Balicasag and Pamilacan Islands, famous dive spots, can be arranged here. You'll never feel shorthanded when it comes to your diving needs since dive shops or dive centers here are well equipped. The white sand and the tropic waters may seem very enticing, however there are still some precautions that should be taken. Be careful when wading in the water when you're out about 20 meters or more since a lot of sea urchins are found in the water at that distance from the coast. A hundred meters further will bring you to the edge of a reef, which is perfect for snorkeling.

Sun-kissed skin in Bohol!

Playing with the starfish in the shores.

I love Bohol!!!

Bohol's beach heartland, Panglao Island is located east of the mainland Bohol island and part of the province as a whole. It is connected via land bridge to the main island that's why access to the other famed places of interests in Bohol is easy and smooth. Panglao island beaches became a favorite destination of tourists, local and foreign alike due to the white sand beaches and its cool crystal blue waters and the world-famous surrounding dive sites. The visitors stay, and some even for good, just for the tranquil ambiance of the place. Year after year, a lot of visitors visit Panglao espcially Alona Beach which is said to be the most beautiful beach in the area. I thought, it is no wonder that in 2003 the province was named "Destination of the Year" by the Philippine Department of Tourism.

I have research and found an interesting bit of history about how Panglao's name came to be. In 1803, Spanish explorers came to the shores of Panglao in search of fresh water. At the time a couple of natives on the seashore were making fishing devices called "panggaw". One of the Spaniards asked what the name of the island was. The natives - who thought the visitors were asking what they were making then replied "panggaw". Hence, from that term, was derived the name Panglao.

This a good time to have intuitive thinking and soul therapy.

Wonderful coral rock formations at the west side of the beach.

It's all time summer high in Bohol!


*Catching the best of Alona's seascape.*

There are many ways to explore this surging beach destination in Visayas region. By land, there's a tricycle and habal-habal (motorcycle) to tour around. Sit comfortably on a smooth leather seat and enjoy the sweeping views of the Panglao landscapes and rural scenes that silently slip by. If you want to have a seaward exploration and adventure in the islands, try their island hopping tours and banca cruises where you will be treated to an island escapade experience that you will never forget. Plan ahead of your visit to Panglao as there are many resorts and inns to stay - that some tends to hike price at certain seasons and lacks rooms especially at summer. Nevertheless, budget travelers need not to worry as there many affordable inns and resorts to stay in Panglao.

Panglao is divided into two municipalities: Panglao and Dauis. There are beaches in Dauis as well as in Panglao town. Beaches of Panglao town are Alona Beach, Doljo Beach, Momo Beach, Bolod Beach, Bagobo Beach and Danao Beach in the barangays of Tawala, Doljo, Tangnan, Bolod, Libaong and Danao respectively. Beaches of Dauis are in barangays Bingag, Dao, and Biking. Other popular beaches aside from Alona Beach are Bolod Beach and Doljo Beach. Bolod Beach is located at barangay Bolod and situated on the southside of the island, about two and a half kilometers east of Alona Beach. The beach has a one and a half kilometer stretch of white sand, the largest shoreline in the area. Famed Bohol Beach Club and Dumaluan Beach Resort is located in this beach. While, Doljo Beach is located at Barangay Doljo and lies on the northwest side of the island and at its very tip. The 3km beach is relatively unexplored and undeveloped, wide and with white sand that stretches so far out and the sea bed slopping gently towards the deep. It is fringed with tall coconut palm trees which add much to its tropical look.

Ocean of tranquility... only in Bohol.

A seascape of Alona Beach that I won't forget.

Souvenir shops in Alona Beach

Actually there are tour offerings in exploring Panglao Island. Itinerary includes visit to Hinagdanan Cave, Bohol Bee Farm, Dauis Church and Shell Museum. We were able to snag a trip to Hinagdanan Cave before going to Tagbilaran Airport as my mom who have been there highly recommends a visit to this beautiful cave.

Hinagdanan Cave is my last blast of natural beauty of Bohol. Located in Dauis, Panglao Island, beneath it are numerous formations of stalactites and stalagmites. It is almost dark and slippery wet inside the cave so be careful walking around but it is naturally lighted cavern mainly from a cluster of three holes in one side of its ceiling. It is also hot under the cave because of summer heat and its close environment so bring water to relieve from heat. The main attraction inside the cave is the underground lagoon at the center of it. It is enticing for a swim on it however, the guide told us that it has a depth of 10 feet.

Hinagdanan Cave entrance.

Inside Hinagdanan Cave

The light from the ceiling.

Hinagdanan Cave's lagoon. Though, its really dark inside our guide adjust the ISO of our camera and capture this beautiful shot.

The magnificent Hinagdanan Cave - natural beauty like no other.

All smiles after a peek into the cave.

It feels quite scary and paranoia inducing inside Hinagdanan Cave as there are so many dark caverns, crevices and rock cabins that makes you think, snakes or croodiles are lurking in those places. But don't be afraid, the cave is clear of any of those creatures. And a lot of tourist is flocking the cave to appreciate its natural beauty. The lagoon in the center made it beautiful and sealed its authenticity as a natural beauty of Bohol like no other. I myself never thought that Hinagdanan Cave is a spectacular natural beauty just like the rest of other Bohol's natural sights. Returning above the entrance of the cave, there are many souvenir shops around it that we were unable to resists but look upon and buy some more "pasalubongs" like irresistible cool designed t-shirts from Island Souvenirs!

Street scene in Tagbilaran City.

Waiting to go home at Tagbilaran Airport.

Bohol in the air... Daghan kaayong salamat!

We drive away from Panglao and arrive after 15 to 20 minutes in Tagbilaran City. Here, I got a view of the daily life scene in this capital city of Bohol. People doing there business chores while the streets is crowded with numerous motorcycles going to their intended destinations. This was different from the simple, rural and laidback life scenes I have seen in the countryside for the last two days of my stay in the province. As I boarded flight PR178 to Manila, I reflected all the best travel experiences I had in Bohol. This is a great way to celebrate my birthday and to make it totally unforgettable by doing my one great passion in life - to travel. Even on the plane I still feel the cool breeze from Alona Beach damping on my skin. I thought, this is just a proof that I had an experience of a lifetime in Bohol. And I really had an experience of a lifetime in Bohol and so I in every travels I had. However, I'm glad my special day started and ended in a wonderful place that is truly blessed with alluring natural beauty named Bohol. Visiting Bohol is a total immersion to its natural beauty. A natural beauty like no other that will surely allure anyone.

--------------------------------------------------------

Alluring Alona is the last part of my Bohol: Allure of Natural Beauty series that happened last March 15-17 on my birthday week. This trip is memorable as this is the first time I traveled and celebrated my birthday out of home. This is a true experience of a lifetime trip!

You might also be interested in reading the other parts of Bohol: Allure of Natural Beauty.

Pure Shores

2011-05-16T22:23:00.002+08:00

One of the beach scenes of Guam that I won't forget is the long stretch of pure shores of Tumon Bay that seems to be endless. The pure powder white sand beach, cerulean seawater, remote palm trees and blue sky reminds me a lot of the song "Pure Shores" by All Saints and original soundtrack of the film The Beach that stars Leonardo DiCaprio. The lyrics goes... "I've crossed the deserts for miles. Swam water for time. Searching places to find. A piece of something to call mine... I'm moving. I'm coming. Can you hear, what I hear? It's calling you my dear. Out of reach (Take me to my beach). I can hear it, calling you. I'm coming not drowning. Swimming closer to you..." This section of Tumon is named Mata'pang Beach. Named after a Chamorro chieftain of the village of Tumon. It's shores seem inviting for a play or swim. At most times, especially in the morning it is quiet and not crowded. That's why its easy to relax and stay calmed as if you own the beach all by yourself! Just like in the lyrics of Pure Shores, the shores of Mata'pang Beach seems to call you in its shores... to play, swim, relax...

More about Guam here.