tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-69510355544484562382024-02-07T13:47:50.500+08:00Philippine Tour & BeyondA collection of personal observations, experiences, advice and tips in touring the Philippinesdomshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02399571680998964574noreply@blogger.comBlogger61125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6951035554448456238.post-2948209286201182752014-12-09T11:27:00.000+08:002014-12-09T13:06:32.488+08:00PAL Offers 12 Days of Amazing Low Fares<!-- google_ad_section_start -->I learned about <b>PAL's 12 Days of Amazing Low Fares</b> via Twitter.<!-- google_ad_section_end -->
<br /><br />
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" lang="en"><p>12 Days of Christmas, 12 Days of Amazing Low Fares! Learn more here <a href="http://t.co/RruAC9GRfk">http://t.co/RruAC9GRfk</a></p>— Philippine Airlines (@flyPAL) <a href="https://twitter.com/flyPAL/status/542153628773908480">December 9, 2014</a></blockquote>
<script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script><br /> <br />
<span id="fullpost">
The Philippine Airlines (<a href="https://twitter.com/flyPAL" target="_new">@flyPAL</a>) is offering discounted airfare this holiday season.
<br /> <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.philippineairlines.com/special-offers/12-days-amazing-low-fares/" target="_new" rel="nofollow" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-p1OAekniaZmVatUppIF1fDZQSA3mrMsSmL5Rn0FICrGYO1eqqyRVU6VODHoGf4e-DnlZnN35Gdv79vHeCqRcV0ItuEPJiz6B-gmWTq-X2p4vbMrHRX8B9cR5NjPNrPE04G1sJHk4AoQ/s400/PAL-12-Days-Low-Fare.jpg" /></a></div>
<br /> <br />
Know more details about this AirFare Promo at <a href="http://www.philippineairlines.com/special-offers/12-days-amazing-low-fares/" target="_new">PAL's website</a>.
<br /> <br />
Follow PAL on Twitter to get updated with their promos and services.
<br /> <br />
</span>
domshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02399571680998964574noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6951035554448456238.post-68170391402051820132014-11-30T16:13:00.002+08:002014-11-30T16:15:28.667+08:00Missing out on Cebu Pacific's P1 to ALL Philippine & International Destinations :(<!-- google_ad_section_start -->I am catching up on my e-mails when I realized I missed out on <b>Cebu Pacific's Piso Fare</b><!-- google_ad_section_end -->.
<br /><br />
<span id="fullpost">
Cebu Pacific yesterday send out e-mail notifications about their P1 to all Philippine & International Destinations.
<br /><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjVRSuy25ivBPAEQaFFBa0Dm1i-vuRKAtq8E2S12COhfjBvFx3TTaqwxrrif2auJrPMpQ7CWept3F9mN_JaGClW8-_9dNve1c9vowu1Q39p1bUyxHMCcUziOcFhq84QDjX3RZp1EdGjaE/s1600/Cebu-Pacific-Piso-Fare.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjVRSuy25ivBPAEQaFFBa0Dm1i-vuRKAtq8E2S12COhfjBvFx3TTaqwxrrif2auJrPMpQ7CWept3F9mN_JaGClW8-_9dNve1c9vowu1Q39p1bUyxHMCcUziOcFhq84QDjX3RZp1EdGjaE/s1600/Cebu-Pacific-Piso-Fare.jpg" /></a>
<br /><br />
Screengrab from E-mail sent to me
</div>
<br /><br />
I would have been interested in going to Bohol next year via Tagbilaran.
<br /><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4BncyaX3DIvm9uetT2pfGkyYsfLnvesOmHJCZTB9xDf1V1MT8GDcawKnGXDWL6_lVFyqgNbroZrLSrxz1_B5yyN3geezNlTv25ZPENWoicQOYIoAoGlOyT8Ml46Ovqm0hRP76E6amymg/s1600/Cebu-Pacific-Seat-Sale-Fare-Nov292014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4BncyaX3DIvm9uetT2pfGkyYsfLnvesOmHJCZTB9xDf1V1MT8GDcawKnGXDWL6_lVFyqgNbroZrLSrxz1_B5yyN3geezNlTv25ZPENWoicQOYIoAoGlOyT8Ml46Ovqm0hRP76E6amymg/s1600/Cebu-Pacific-Seat-Sale-Fare-Nov292014.jpg" /></a></div>
<br /><br />
I'll be more aware next time.
<br /><br />
</span>domshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02399571680998964574noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6951035554448456238.post-20801391934427560062014-11-13T08:16:00.001+08:002014-11-13T08:18:33.902+08:00Philippine Airlines Travel Fair 2014<!-- google_ad_section_start -->Good news to all air travelers! Most especially those raring to tour the Philippines this 2015.
<br /><br />
I just read from <a href="http://http://www.rappler.com/bulletin-board/74860-pal-3-day-travel-fair-nov-2014" target="_new" rel="nofollow">Rappler</a> that the <b>Philippine Airlines Travel Fair</b> will be held this month.<!-- google_ad_section_end -->
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.philippineairlines.com/" target="_new" rel="nofollow" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJdeIaENCxdCFYobbZ1P2jST6r8tuyZocBnYDgk6zzWxHKB1AZDRVDmgF-VlsCYJOGnfJSwnGq2ZvPjjIHlVJy5tvsQ6zw7hUZAc4jYUfxBCmZRNemnaSP6wHGWbH4v67unzh_kadUmhc/s1600/philippine-arilines-logo.png" /></a></div>
<span id="fullpost">
<a href="http://http://www.rappler.com/bulletin-board/74860-pal-3-day-travel-fair-nov-2014" target="_new" rel="nofollow">
<blockquote>The fair will be open to the public from November 15 to 16.
<br /><br />
Travel period for tickets purchased during the fair will be from January 20 to September 30, 2015.
<br /><br />
Also, travel enthusiasts availing of tickets from the 3-day fair can win trips to the East Coast via flights to New York.</blockquote></a>
<br />
The fair will run from Friday to Sunday, November 15 to 16, 9 am to 7 pm, at the Philippine National Bank (PNB) Financial Center, Diosdado Macapagal Avenue, Pasay City.
<br /><br />
Furthermore, the fair dubbed as "<i>PAL Travel Fair in PNB</i>" will offer as much as 50% discount on PAL's flights to international and domestic destinations to early birds.
<br /><br />
See you all there!
<br /><br />
</span>domshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02399571680998964574noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6951035554448456238.post-36307297130662020622014-10-10T08:22:00.002+08:002014-10-10T09:19:53.089+08:00I Voted for Vigan City to be included in the New 7 Wonder Cities of the World<!-- google_ad_section_start -->Here is my vote of support to <b>Vigan City</b> which become a <a href="http://globalnation.inquirer.net/112216/vigan-among-14-finalists-in-new-7-wonder-cities-race" target="_new" rel="nofollow">finalist</a> in the on-going search for the <b><i><a href="http://world.new7wonders.com/new7wonders-cities/new7wonders-cities/" target="_new" rel="nofollow">New 7 Wonder Cities</a></i></b>. <!-- google_ad_section_end -->
<br /><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioSfsk523Fnw_WWXCN89YtQvqwfjPHStoTf96CvLjX8TFtRrqU4vVbr8J-nfUPnaD4o-W30FZLz-XuY1WRQ52UpmqfSTKmANDYmmAU8eQssjagnmGFoRW4xuLOVz0jIsXEGzExDa3TwwQ/s1600/Vote-Vigan-City-Ilocos-Sur-New7WonderCities.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioSfsk523Fnw_WWXCN89YtQvqwfjPHStoTf96CvLjX8TFtRrqU4vVbr8J-nfUPnaD4o-W30FZLz-XuY1WRQ52UpmqfSTKmANDYmmAU8eQssjagnmGFoRW4xuLOVz0jIsXEGzExDa3TwwQ/s1600/Vote-Vigan-City-Ilocos-Sur-New7WonderCities.jpg" /></a></div>
<br /><br />
<span id="fullpost">
It is with pride that I revive my tourism blog as my own little way in spreading the word about Vigan City's campaign into being named one of the New 7 Wonder Cities of the World.
<br /><br />
For Vigan City to be included in the last 14 cities for consideration definitely brings honor not only to this famed city but to the rest of the Philippines as well.
<br /><br />
I have experienced <a href="http://tour-the-philippines.blogspot.com/search/label/Ilocos%20Region%20Tour">Ilocos Region Tour</a> twice. One in 2009 and the other in 2012. What left its mark on me is the experience of the seeming step back into the past in Vigan City. More specifically, I as walked along <i>Calle Crisologo</i>. A Kalesa Tour around the city will surely enhance such experience.
<br /><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://tour-the-philippines.blogspot.com/2009/09/journey-to-ilocos-region-day-1.html" target="_new" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQgcrVWLZkvp11-bLZJorttenADWk-Kmd8Y8IGKqdOhpsgz5gvBhduhLCGgdDWNCVErKxRh3dMpRvGf5oHu2hp19sTHivr0L5iQxRnYCI_GuaMvEEvd1ctvXx3vyX_YLNXHYkSEU2nenQ/s1600/calle+crisologo+at+night2.jpg" /></a></div>
<br /><br />
This inclusion is major boost for Vigan City. We Filipinos should visit the place ourselves and then tell our wonderful experience to the rest of the world. And if we can, let us vote for it, too!.
<br /><br />
I am hoping that Vigan City will follow in the footsteps of <a href="http://tour-the-philippines.blogspot.com/2010/09/puerto-princesa-underground-river-tops.html">Puerto Princesa Underground River</a> which <a href="http://world.new7wonders.com/the-new7wonders-of-nature/puerto-princessa-underground-river-philippines/" target="_New" rel="nofollow"> named one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature</a>.
<br /><br />
</span>domshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02399571680998964574noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6951035554448456238.post-65246444348388823462013-06-12T16:24:00.000+08:002013-06-12T16:29:26.988+08:00Filipino Pride in the 115th Independence Day Celebration<!-- google_ad_section_start -->Today our country commemorates the 115th Anniversary of the Declaration of Philippine Independence. As a Filipino, I can never be more proud. :) <!-- google_ad_section_end -->
<br /> <br />
<span id="fullpost">
I would like to thank <a href="http://www.google.com.ph" target="_new">Google </a> for a <a href="http://www.rappler.com/life-and-style/31127-google-philippine-independence-2013" target="_new">nice doodle</a> specific to this day's celebration.
<br /> <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjONxIXdbd04KuJa4TP_-JU53cwB59DfeYbjRzC2rlFansaBstgthXeTYoNGsZnX_tAv7ZAI26Orv1xQYuVVbnonW8nkOJAmWHM-sic3hbFZcbJoxgpvOfeH54dzgO_dVQDHRbHNXHFKY/s1600/philippine_independence_day_2013-1526005-hp.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjONxIXdbd04KuJa4TP_-JU53cwB59DfeYbjRzC2rlFansaBstgthXeTYoNGsZnX_tAv7ZAI26Orv1xQYuVVbnonW8nkOJAmWHM-sic3hbFZcbJoxgpvOfeH54dzgO_dVQDHRbHNXHFKY/s1600/philippine_independence_day_2013-1526005-hp.gif" /></a></div>
<br /> <br />
I am one with President Pnoy who calls on every Filipino:
<blockquote><i>"Huwag sana tayong maghintay pa ng tatlondaang taon, o ng tatlong dekada, o kahit ng tatlong taon, bago tayo magpasyang magbuklod para maging malaya tayo mula sa gutom, kahirapan, o anumang banta sa ating soberenya’t seguridad. Hindi tama na mapahaba pa ang pagtitiis ng mga Pilipino ni isang minuto," he said.</i>
<br /> <br />
(Let us not wait for 300 years, or 3 decades or even 3 years before we come together in order to free ourselves from hunger, poverty or whatever threats to our sovereignty and securtiy. It is not right to prolong the suffering of Filipinos by another minute).
<br /> <br />
via <a href="http://www.rappler.com/nation/31133-aquino-on-independence-day-unite,-fight-like-a-filipino" target="_new">Rappler</a></blockquote>
<br /> <br />
My dear kababayans, let us all work in our own little ways to make a better Philippines and a better way of life for all Filipinos.
</span>domshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02399571680998964574noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6951035554448456238.post-9520058178329145082013-05-05T17:42:00.002+08:002013-05-07T16:57:40.160+08:00All Time High Tourists Visiting Philippines 1Q of 2013 - Keep Them Coming DOT<!-- google_ad_section_start -->In <a href="http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/focus/05/04/13/tourist-arrivals-reach-all-time-high" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">a report from abs-cbn news</a>, the number of tourists visiting the Philippines for the first three months of the year is at an all-time high.<!-- google_ad_section_end -->
<br />
<br />
This is definitely good news! Special thanks to our Korean neighbors. The report said that Koreans top the foreigners who visited my country on the first 3 months.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFFusB3mYlmV43Ma74C44UYSEudKMy0UwPmVKSmocY083bJy-7ajOC-lvcqYJI_MRCEMk9BISFIfa0c0675KRqSkhnPGLgG2GCjdwuz51uF1EF8wP7o78ulpgLvvp_WnktgIsPcNJTjpE/s1600/gamsa-korean-word-thanks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFFusB3mYlmV43Ma74C44UYSEudKMy0UwPmVKSmocY083bJy-7ajOC-lvcqYJI_MRCEMk9BISFIfa0c0675KRqSkhnPGLgG2GCjdwuz51uF1EF8wP7o78ulpgLvvp_WnktgIsPcNJTjpE/s1600/gamsa-korean-word-thanks.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
I hope that our OFW kababayans in Korea will continue to promote our country to their Korean friends and workmates.
<br />
<br />
Our Department of Tourism (DOT) should be given the kudos for a good job. I hope that this good news will boost their morale and encourage them into continuing working hard for our tourism sector.
<br />
<br />
Here's to an all-time tourist arrival for the rest of 2013!
<br />
<br />
<span id="fullpost">
</span>domshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02399571680998964574noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6951035554448456238.post-25694293337974276232013-04-11T12:58:00.000+08:002013-04-11T21:44:42.279+08:00Escape This Scorching Summer for A While, Take a Plunge at Public Swimming Pools Within Metro Manila<!-- google_ad_section_start -->This summer is very, very hot. Cold showers are refreshing but do not last. But why limit yourself to your own bathroom? Let's go a for swim without leaving the metro.
<br />
<br />
<span id="fullpost">
Thanks to GMANews, we can all enjoy a good swim and relax against the sweltering summer heat without going that far through list their <a href="http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/302810/lifestyle/people/swimming-pools-in-metro-manila-that-are-open-to-the-public" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">list of public swimming pools within Metro Manila</a>.
<br /><br />
Among the list, I am thinking of inviting my girlfriend to the swimming pool in Pasig City Rainforest Park which is near her place. Or if she'd brave to travel further, to the La Meso Ecopark which is near mine.
<br /><br />
Also, let us all make swimming at public pools more enjoyable for everyone by remembering the following:
<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Always follow the lifeguard's directions. He/she knows better (really).</li>
<li>Always follow the local pool rules.</li>
<li>Walk on the sides of the pool, don't run. More than one kid did break a limb slipping on the wet ground.</li>
<li>Don't dive without proper supervision by an experienced swimmer or coach. Diving should always be done in the deep end of the pool, not in the shallow end or somewhere in between. </li>
<li>Avoid to go to the pool if you have the flu, open wounds or warts. You don't want to contaminate other swimming pool visitors.</li>
<li>Wear a swim cap if you (still) have hair. This avoids that the pool's filters become clogged or that people cut themselves on a hair when they dive off from a starting block.</li>
<li>Only wear your swim suit at the pool. Don't go to the pool with a suit or shorts that you have worn all day.</li>
<li>Don't enter the pool being dirty. Always shower off first. The pool is not your bathtub.</li>
<li>Avoid swimming underwater while holding your breath, especially after hyperventilating. This can lead to shallow water blackout and drowning.</li>
</ul>
<br /><br />
You can read more about proper behavior while swimming in public pools <a href="http://www.enjoy-swimming.com/swimming-pool-rules.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">here</a>.
<br /><br />
The funny thing that I realize today is that maybe we need not look further for places to go to this summer. It might just be around your neighborhood corner. :)
</span><!-- google_ad_section_end -->domshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02399571680998964574noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6951035554448456238.post-30434735434042646572013-04-03T08:09:00.005+08:002013-04-03T08:09:47.365+08:00Avoiding Scammers Make Touring the Philippines More Fun and Much Safer <!-- google_ad_section_start -->Summer is a great time to tour the Philippines. Make the experience more fun and much safer by being vigilant about unscrupulous people trying to scam their way to your money and valuables.
<br />
<br />
<span id="fullpost">
Gmanetwork.com listed <b><a href="http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/302008/pinoyabroad/ofwguide/travel-guide-scams-to-avoid-from-fake-cops-to-deceitful-taxi-drivers" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">scams to avoid when you travel</a></b>. The list is a good read for all tourist and is applicable when touring any city. One can never be too prepared for these scammers. Kindly check it out and review even if you pride yourself as the most ready tourist ever.
<br /> <br />
What is lamentable is the fact that scammers have robbed away our immediate trust to friendly locals. Right now, it is hard to distinguish if the friendly local is genuinely welcoming you or just after your valuables and money.
<br /> <br />
I urge my <i>kababayans</i> to display the trait that endeared Filipinos to almost all tourists - HOSPITALITY. And I mean genuine hospitality, not only aimed for foreigners but moreso for our fellow kababayans as well. After all, local tourism can really help our country develop.
<br />
<br />
</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span id="fullpost"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLDMQKmGTB_B1ZB6mi0ZMmBAuXl99nWhzNO7uvWvug0WKh2ljkiFZmvQT9uqnJFsDlospYrVOpRMOR3MwBVD5-Z3Y7f_UV_a-AkQSYaQPenxHHyDOoqn6Um4H665H2hFenbzBgQlehixI/s1600/HOSPITALITY_actual.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="206" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLDMQKmGTB_B1ZB6mi0ZMmBAuXl99nWhzNO7uvWvug0WKh2ljkiFZmvQT9uqnJFsDlospYrVOpRMOR3MwBVD5-Z3Y7f_UV_a-AkQSYaQPenxHHyDOoqn6Um4H665H2hFenbzBgQlehixI/s320/HOSPITALITY_actual.jpg" width="320" /></a>
</span></div>
<span id="fullpost">
<div align="center">
Image from this <a href="http://www.veryinternational.net/verym/?p=384" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">site</a>.</div>
<br /> </span><!-- google_ad_section_end -->domshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02399571680998964574noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6951035554448456238.post-44027834730286589102013-03-27T15:08:00.000+08:002013-03-27T15:08:14.007+08:00DOTC Advisory: MRT, LRT Operation - LENT 2013<br /><br /><!-- google_ad_section_start -->For all my kababayans who will be going home to their respective provinces and those who will be touring the metro this lent, here is the <b>DOTC advisory concerning MRT and LRT operations</b> via Twitter (<a href="https://twitter.com/DOTCPhilippines" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@DOTCPhilippines</a>)
<span id="fullpost">
</span><br />
<div align="center">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<span id="fullpost">No LRT1, LRT2 & MRT3 operations from Maundy Thurs (Mar 28) to Easter Sun (Mar 31). Regular ops to resume April 1 <a href="https://twitter.com/search/%23LigtasBiyahe">#LigtasBiyahe</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/search/%23Kwaresma2013">#Kwaresma2013</a></span><br />
<span id="fullpost">— DOTC(@DOTCPhilippines) <a href="https://twitter.com/DOTCPhilippines/status/316796090307457024">March 27, 2013</a></span></blockquote>
<script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script><span id="fullpost">
</span></div>
<span id="fullpost">
<br /> <br />
I wish a convenient and safe trip to everyone!
</span>
<!-- google_ad_section_end -->domshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02399571680998964574noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6951035554448456238.post-12410629133617350372013-03-19T08:31:00.003+08:002013-03-19T08:31:32.824+08:00Technology Brings Us To Places, But I Like my Dream to Travel to be Fulfilled<!-- google_ad_section_start -->Technology and Google has provided us with more than a bird's eye view of the world. Thank you, Google.
<br />
<br />
<span id="fullpost">
I can't help but be amazed on what Google has done to capture the world and present it to us thru our laptops or mobile phones.
<br /><br />
Take for example, Mount Everest. Some years back, our country caught the fancy of the highest mountain the world. Thanks to the exploits of Leo Oracion and Romi Garduce.
<br /><br />
Google has afforded all of us a chance to:
<br />
</span><br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span id="fullpost">Finally, make your way to Everest Base Camp, where expeditions stage their attempts to reach the top of the world. Along the ascent, steal glimpses of the snow-capped Himalayan mountain peaks and the awesome Khumbu glacier.
</span><br />
<span id="fullpost"><a href="http://googleblog.blogspot.com/2013/03/explore-everest-kilimanjaro-and-more.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">View it here</a>.</span></blockquote>
<span id="fullpost">
<br />
Thanks to technology and Google, you and I could take a peak at places we only dream or read.
<br /><br />
But I certainly hope that I could live that dream of going places, t<b>our the whole of the Philippines</b> and beyond.
</span>
<!-- google_ad_section_end -->domshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02399571680998964574noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6951035554448456238.post-14566064325312157792013-01-18T19:19:00.001+08:002013-01-18T19:22:47.562+08:00Indeed, Its More Fun to Pop the Question in the Philippines<!-- google_ad_section_start -->We Filipinos are the romantic kind. And almost always, we are glad whenever soon-to-be-married couples comes our way.<br />
<br />
The Department of Tourism (DOT) should be lauded, even just for this time, for a heart-tugging advertisement announcing to the world that it is more fun to pop the question with the beautiful Philippines as its backdrop.<br />
<br />
<span id="fullpost">
I would like to echo the sentiments I read from Ms. Raissa Robles blog. <a href="http://raissarobles.com/2013/01/18/my-hats-off-to-secretary-ramon-jimenez-and-the-department-of-tourism/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Hats off to the DOT headed by Mr. Ramon Jimenez</a>. This tourism ad deserves to be blogged about. It surely drove me to come out of my blogging hiatus.<br /><br />
It is with these kind of effort and result that makes me say that taxes withheld from my salary somehow still reaches the government coffers and is used productively for my benefit and my fellow Filipinos.
<br /><br />
I hope that after watching the video below, all aspiring grooms out there will come up with their own unique way of popping that very serious question. Please do it in any of the beautiful places here in my beloved Philippines. I'm pretty sure my <i>kababayans</i> can be trusted accomplices in these romantic setups.</span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/d8nYOf2gcNE?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
<br />
Indeed, it's more fun to propose in the Philippines. And look no further for your honeymoon. ;)
<!-- google_ad_section_end -->domshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02399571680998964574noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6951035554448456238.post-7962248725730443072012-02-26T18:22:00.000+08:002012-02-26T18:58:20.705+08:00More Fun, Beauty & Wellness in the Philippines<!-- google_ad_section_start -->I have often read that beauty and wellness is an industry that the country can really market to entice foreigners to visit. It is only yesterday that the I stared at this truth right at my face.<!-- google_ad_section_end -->
<br><br>
Our busy makeshift office (I work in a construction site) was interrupted yesterday by two ladies enticing us to avail of their beauty and wellness products. Discounts, vip memberships and perhaps a welcome distraction has many of my colleagues signing up, including me.
<br><br>
I live in a city that has a lot of beauty & wellness establishments - hair salon, <a href="http://www.julep.com/" target="_new">spa, manicure and pedicure</a> among the most offered services.
<br><br>
I have a niece who always often show me her nicely done nail polish, so I can surmise that beauty isn't only for those defying age and nature but for almost everyone.
<br><br>
It's really more fun in the Philippines... because almost anyone can afford to remain beautiful and well long after their tour.domshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02399571680998964574noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6951035554448456238.post-44313158291565826662012-01-22T00:41:00.003+08:002012-01-22T00:58:54.315+08:00Cebu Pacific Makes it Really More Fun in the Philippines with P1 Seat Sale<!-- google_ad_section_start -->It is more fun in the Philippines especially if if you get to spend only a peso ( Php 1.00 ) on airfare ticket.
<br><br>
<b>Cebu Pacific</b> just e-mailed me a <b>P1 Seat Sale</b>.<!-- google_ad_section_end -->
<br><br>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.cebupacificair.com/" target="_new" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="246" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiflr-ZEFpLgD1QEgIgCsn7aOyOHdXqgWhhJWYZ2DlKkWJnbsmAAiyss3QZaK3Mcst0O4JwiljtsIZWwWIoTvGAwM3UyEktkXQ6BtuYU196226ssvHRWu_xAPzt6V6VNLmrmEsgeMf6lLA/s400/CEBU-PACIFIC-P1-Seat-Sale-January2012.jpg" /></a></div>
<br><br>
<span id="fullpost">
I would have loved to avail of this seat sale. But my schedule for the year is basically up in the air until <a href="http://thejobseekerme.blogspot.com">the job seeker me</a> lands that elusive job.
<br><br>
If you're luckier than me and holds your own schedule, proceed immediately to the Cebu Pacific website and book your trip as this kind of airfare ticket sale do not last that long.
</span>domshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02399571680998964574noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6951035554448456238.post-86325346838972600022011-12-19T11:18:00.000+08:002011-12-19T11:44:56.419+08:00Help Cagayan de Oro City & Iligan City in the Aftermath of Typhoon Sendong<!-- google_ad_section_start -->This post is for the people of Cagayan de Oro City, devastated by <a href="http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/242058/news/nation/sendong-among-deadliest-cyclones-to-enter-phl-in-12-years" target="_new">Typhoon Sendong</a>.
<br><br>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1Cp2iTLfi2Uf3ofuW_g2CeOeQfJI3sIERfzr-URMW81GS52p4Ut1cHfJ7giKCeMZA0P_zRDe7wqPDWptZ6iuJBD6bkFHIeqYt33lEITCyOofIzwFs_LDWtXmCRfKa8zwu4EwfdtsMUaY/s1600/helpcdo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="392" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1Cp2iTLfi2Uf3ofuW_g2CeOeQfJI3sIERfzr-URMW81GS52p4Ut1cHfJ7giKCeMZA0P_zRDe7wqPDWptZ6iuJBD6bkFHIeqYt33lEITCyOofIzwFs_LDWtXmCRfKa8zwu4EwfdtsMUaY/s400/helpcdo.jpg" /></a></div>
<br><br>
<span id="fullpost">I have been to Cagayan de Oro once. And I am deeply saddened that it was hit the hardest by tropical storm Sendong. Watching footages from the news on TV reminds me of the aftermath of Ondoy.
<br><br>
Our family prepared for Ondoy but never expected that it will submerged our house in Novaliches, Quezon City waist-deep because no typhoon has ever flooded our place. There's always a first time, Ondoy proved to our family.
<br><br>
CDO, and Mindanao in general, is seldom hit by tropical depressions. Past education, if I remember correctly, taught us that Mindanao is ideal to be the food basket of the whole country because of its suitable year-long climate.
<br><br>
My heart goes to the people of CDO. When I visited Cagayan de Oro in 2009, I enjoyed the place and the people are generally hospitable.
<br><br>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEnnwxRgIqCiz0UKdlEhyphenhyphenfFlYBEaQMM4RMmamoYh3lXNnU8KNRNqaRySmU9BaPGMeZ44A2LuKIyqjG936y0Chjf0gKHXd7nfNI2diLkzUuJWfLZlWtp1jIuQv6P2VSLelK4Pca8qNMnA8/s1600/help-cdo-after-sendong.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="265" width="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEnnwxRgIqCiz0UKdlEhyphenhyphenfFlYBEaQMM4RMmamoYh3lXNnU8KNRNqaRySmU9BaPGMeZ44A2LuKIyqjG936y0Chjf0gKHXd7nfNI2diLkzUuJWfLZlWtp1jIuQv6P2VSLelK4Pca8qNMnA8/s400/help-cdo-after-sendong.jpg" /></a>
<br>From the Philippine Red Cross Donate Page</div>
<br><br>
Right now, I can only think of <a href="http://www.redcross.org.ph/donatenow" target="_new">donating to the Philippine Red Cross</a> <a href="http://prepaidcellphoneportal.blogspot.com/2011/12/help-cdo-iligan-city-after-sendong.html" target="_new">thru my cellphone</a>. But I hope that this little blog can encourage visitors to sympathize with the plight of those devastated by Typhoon Sendong (CDO & Iligan City) and do what they can to help.
<br><br>
</span>
<!-- google_ad_section_end -->domshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02399571680998964574noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6951035554448456238.post-35227622331801391332011-10-31T21:42:00.000+08:002011-10-31T21:42:31.703+08:00Rich Philippine Biodiversity Featured in a US TV Special<!-- google_ad_section_start -->The <b>Phillipines' rich biodiversity</b> is must-see for foreign and local tourists alike. And I am mighty proud that it was featured thru a TV special in the US.
<br><br>
<blockquote>ABC7 KGO-TV recently aired a feature entitled “Reefs to Rainforests: The Great Expedition” which took viewers on an expedition to the Philippines for a breath-taking look at one of the world’s richest and endangered biological hotspots, where scientists from the Philippines and the San Francisco Bay Area discovered 300 new species.
<br>[<a href="http://www.philippineembassy-usa.org/news/2179/300/The-Philippines-Rich-Biodiversity-Featured-at-ABC7-KGO-TV/d,phildet/" target="_new">Source</a>]</blockquote>
<br><br>
You can watch the featured video <a href="http://abclocal.go.com/kgo/video?id=8404396" target="_new">here</a>.
<br><br>
One more good reason for me to further love my country and enjoined my countrymen to support programs and advocacies that will preserve the <b>treasured biodiversity of the Philippines</b>.
<br>
<!-- google_ad_section_end -->domshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02399571680998964574noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6951035554448456238.post-85861667355436730722011-07-27T13:49:00.001+08:002011-07-27T13:57:33.109+08:00Bohol Tourism Map<!-- google_ad_section_start -->Have you decided where will you go this <a href="http://tour-the-philippines.blogspot.com/2011/07/long-weekend-august-2011.html">August 26 - 30 long weekend</a>?<br /><br />If you are thinking of going to Bohol, better check out this <b>Bohol tourism map</b>.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghfOqkAGJpbTkplaDRrvJVsmkRGa-AYydjB-uSEQbClIyPjetITmpbroILoZSpkRZNTMhwrL7Egn2CHH5u17lS4cjyx06fhDvM5-1lgyg3xKQymw7188tRlCvPPrLvvd2RONnRu6sIF-0/s1600/Bohol-Tourism-Map.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="225" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghfOqkAGJpbTkplaDRrvJVsmkRGa-AYydjB-uSEQbClIyPjetITmpbroILoZSpkRZNTMhwrL7Egn2CHH5u17lS4cjyx06fhDvM5-1lgyg3xKQymw7188tRlCvPPrLvvd2RONnRu6sIF-0/s400/Bohol-Tourism-Map.jpg" /></a><br /><a href="http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?msa=0&msid=211552980494073538542.0004a88092dff5dfdd2c9" target="_new"><b>Bohol Tourism Map</b></a> Screenshot</div><br /><br /><span id="fullpost">Powered by Google maps, the <b>Bohol Tourism Map</b> accurately shows the more than 700 tourism sites of the province along with the tourism-related establishments.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.yugatech.com/blog/the-internet/dti-maps-entire-bohol-tourist-site-with-galaxy-tabs/" target="_new">Yugatech blogged about how this accurate mapping of Bohol was accomplished</a>.<br /><br />Aside from the map, the left panel provides vital information about accomodations, facilities, rates and, most importantly, contact details. So, nice!<br /><br />I can not emphasize more how this recent initiative is heaven-sent for those who have only the internet to plan their travel itenerary. Definitely, a big boost for Bohol. Can we expect other Philippine travel hub to follow?<br /><br />Do not forget to refer to the <a href="http://bit.ly/boholtourismmap" target="_new"><b>Bohol Toursim Map</b> here</a> if you are planning to visit Bohol. ;)<br /></span><!-- google_ad_section_end -->domshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02399571680998964574noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6951035554448456238.post-21346381490135625652011-07-24T16:54:00.002+08:002011-07-27T13:38:45.388+08:00August 26 - 30 2011 Long Weekend, Longer Travel Opportunity<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eid_ul-Fitr" target="_new">Eid’l-Fitr</a> marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting. This year it falls on August 30 and has been declared a holiday. With <a href="http://tour-the-philippines.blogspot.com/2010/12/philippine-holidays-2011.html">August 29, already declared a holiday</a> to celebrate <i>National Heroes Day</i>, a <b>four-day long weekend</b> is in the offing to majority of employees in the country. <br /><br />As Saturdays & Sundays are normally off-work days, employees who work under such schedule will enjoy a four-day weekend from August 26 - 30, 2011. That <i>long weekend</i> is an opportune time to tour the Philippines and know more about our country. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://tour-the-philippines.blogspot.com/2011/07/long-weekend-august-2011.html" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="294" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwJeiKRZNuUKaSeBeYeJcId2Xkv0ZvFc3h2730Jw84BWCVepEownkFR7Lj9t1tqKsIsajXk3XT-Wu7Cm0CEQimaeiwPrhQ5oJKqcPAERsP5r1eq-kuRD_h6Lp9lpXfXpY6PbFi-ec3tp8/s400/long-road.jpg" /></a><br />Image from <a href="http://www.dreamstime.com/towards-the-volcano-free-stock-photo-imagefree2123339" target="_new">Dreamstime Free Photos</a></div><br /><span id="fullpost">Those planning to travel on a <b>long weekend</b> such as this one need to plan ahead. A well-planned itenerary is the key to making the most out of a long vacation.<br /><br />Since its four days, going out of the city or your province is very suitable. Getting cheap fares for air travel would not only be cost-saving but time-saving as well.<br /><br />Up north, you can fly to Laoag, Ilocos Norte. Taste the famous Ilocos Empanada. Or just went straight splashing at the beaches of Pagudpud. Then you can proceed to the <a href="http://tour-the-philippines.blogspot.com/2009/09/journey-to-ilocos-region-day-1.html">Heritage City in Vigan, Ilocos Sur</a>. It is best to walk through Calle Crisologo at night. Stepping on the cobblestoned streets is like stepping to the Spanish times.<br /><br />Further down, <a href="http://tour-the-philippines.blogspot.com/2009/04/reminiscing-baguio-city-philippines.html">Baguio</a> remains a favorite except when it rains. <br /><br />Feeling lazy for long trips, Tagaytay is quite near and accessible from Metro Manila. I hope you can experience <a href="http://tour-the-philippines.blogspot.com/2011/06/tagaytay-zipline-fun.html">Tagaytay Zipline fun</a>, too.<br /><br />Weather permitting, beach resorts further down south in Batangas are a plenty for a fun swim. <a href="http://tour-the-philippines.blogspot.com/2010/06/munting-buhangin-beach-resort.html">Munting Buhangin</a> is one example. <br /><br />Boracay & Bohol are famous destinations in the Visayas. As it is not summer anymore, perhaps it is no longer full of visitors by the end of August. Going there on the upcoming long weekend may prove to be more enjoyable because of less crowd..<br /><br />I will personally recommend Cagayan de Oro. Not that I'm from there. But if the weather allows it, you can have lots of adrenaline rush via <a href="http://tour-the-philippines.blogspot.com/2009/02/cagayan-de-oro-river-whitewater-rafting.html">Cagayan de Oro river whitewater rafting adventure</a>. After which, you can proceed to the scenic beauty that is <a href="http://tour-the-philippines.blogspot.com/2009/03/cdo-camiguin-tour-white-island.html">Camiguin</a>.<br /><br />Those are just passing suggestions. The Philippines has a lot of exciting and splendid places to visit on that long vacation.<br /><br />I do hope that local tourism will enjoy a boost from August 26 to 30, 2011. Be safe and enjoy the Philippines during this upcoming long weekend.<br /></span>domshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02399571680998964574noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6951035554448456238.post-65089910796874699712011-06-21T20:37:00.002+08:002011-06-21T20:45:15.740+08:00Tagaytay Zipline Fun<!-- google_ad_section_start -->When I shared to a friend my <a href="http://tour-the-philippines.blogspot.com/2009/03/cagayan-de-oro-tour-macahambus.html">zipline experience at the Macahambus Adventure Park in Cagayan de Oro</a> sometime ago, he told me try out the <b>Tagaytay Zipline</b> as well. Early this month, I had the chance to experience what he was bragging about. <br />
<br />
The experience was made more special because it happened on the first out-of-town trip with my GF Tintin. We had <i>our Tagaytay Zipline fun</i> with hands held together.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLpVvIyltqLq0Dv8RDln24py3TyjPEdxJhAkwMBKfSE0gZxuovD5_y_uu0HaanCphMJEN6XHc0o6z0xgyLOrCHtRQs2c_AEGBWT9pNKdljZIBzd9TJREbmvty2p9acjjoozLiMHMkAQC4/s1600/zipline.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="270" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLpVvIyltqLq0Dv8RDln24py3TyjPEdxJhAkwMBKfSE0gZxuovD5_y_uu0HaanCphMJEN6XHc0o6z0xgyLOrCHtRQs2c_AEGBWT9pNKdljZIBzd9TJREbmvty2p9acjjoozLiMHMkAQC4/s400/zipline.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<span id="fullpost">I and GF Tintin accompanied my Ate Rie to visit her property and close relatives in Dasmarinas Cavite. After which a short visit to Tagaytay was decided. The initial plan is to just go to the Picnic Grove in Tagaytay to get a view of the Taal Volcano and Taal Lake. I almost jumped for joy as the Tagaytay Zipline I'm so curious about for so long is right there at the Picnic Grove.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVf2kYxXNRlNyRY5Q2KQTWMkU__YjwsZNcuyURq2pvkP0nc3SgesvIjWt6LgLqYLhBCvBYaJxNX2W_2Bk93YbEKPa-CpZKXte_69YcFCgbuN8kMJA6tZS53fEDQhQoaDSojdT-HfLbEVs/s1600/Taal-Volcano-Viewed-From-Picnic-Grove-in-Tagaytay.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVf2kYxXNRlNyRY5Q2KQTWMkU__YjwsZNcuyURq2pvkP0nc3SgesvIjWt6LgLqYLhBCvBYaJxNX2W_2Bk93YbEKPa-CpZKXte_69YcFCgbuN8kMJA6tZS53fEDQhQoaDSojdT-HfLbEVs/s400/Taal-Volcano-Viewed-From-Picnic-Grove-in-Tagaytay.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTcAc7o8XRJlyF5EtsbZY_GBT9EN2WDbbvC7l9q4WQA-RCpgATHgEHqXUshWf7wTXH6eMKfC4vnrlea4Yl-a2pNx7kWqcf80v4BokCZGuE7jFf5BGjZGzHJI2gT1UcpfwEFtNXQ__i7Hk/s1600/ate-rie-with-me-and-tintin-at-picnic-grove-tagaytay.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="252" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTcAc7o8XRJlyF5EtsbZY_GBT9EN2WDbbvC7l9q4WQA-RCpgATHgEHqXUshWf7wTXH6eMKfC4vnrlea4Yl-a2pNx7kWqcf80v4BokCZGuE7jFf5BGjZGzHJI2gT1UcpfwEFtNXQ__i7Hk/s400/ate-rie-with-me-and-tintin-at-picnic-grove-tagaytay.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKLwRjzytE0Gs7zM7s2Ihvb0SXdRyFNK-YzLtop-yU5BmmKNpPo3kgNBSJrrR1u9VE6_QJf8yDR70THWhY8oFbi1KDvOpq08OmWjW4Vim85x0vq04Y4ekB4iPhNq1fuokNjO_9mEhN2tY/s1600/Family-pic-at-Picnic-Grove-Tagaytay.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKLwRjzytE0Gs7zM7s2Ihvb0SXdRyFNK-YzLtop-yU5BmmKNpPo3kgNBSJrrR1u9VE6_QJf8yDR70THWhY8oFbi1KDvOpq08OmWjW4Vim85x0vq04Y4ekB4iPhNq1fuokNjO_9mEhN2tY/s400/Family-pic-at-Picnic-Grove-Tagaytay.jpg" /></a></div><br />
After the usual photoshoot with the Taal Volcano and Lake on the background our contingent had some snacks. While they are at it, It was the time for me to experience the Tagaytay Zipline. <br />
<br />
I think its main attraction is going thru the zipline in prone position. The closest thing to flying.<br />
<br />
I wanted to go over back & forth, it costs Php 400 per person because it's on a Sunday. Since Ate Rie will be paying, I also availed of the extra Php 200 for the souvenir photos and mugs. Hehehe! Thanks, Ate.<br />
<br />
There was a short line leading to the take-off area. In no time, we (Tintin & I) were being strapped on the Zipline. Without further ado, we are zipping thru the air, hand on hand. <br />
<br />
It was in the middle part, that I felt nervous. But shouting words of affection with my girlfriend right beside me makes the experience more special and also calmed my nerves.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeoRs5f7OBGWYrHSa_ntg6cWwilhfIccIDfOcKwswEF2kjBOw7FTmQflhc0u6LFfeERPuXZFbvTow8bu5068RP6gL8GTC_LApahE0engmeNeg9HLV_mV8ie-Xsj4-1tIY7Ek8z_cfq3NM/s1600/Tagaytay-Zipline.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeoRs5f7OBGWYrHSa_ntg6cWwilhfIccIDfOcKwswEF2kjBOw7FTmQflhc0u6LFfeERPuXZFbvTow8bu5068RP6gL8GTC_LApahE0engmeNeg9HLV_mV8ie-Xsj4-1tIY7Ek8z_cfq3NM/s400/Tagaytay-Zipline.jpg" /></a></div><br />
As we approach the landing, I again felt nervous because our velocity going down to the other end made me think that the waiting staff wouldn't be able to catch us. Of course, they did. We were even pushed back for the photoshoot to be printed on the souvenirs. <br />
<br />
It was an adrenaline rush for me. I would say that the Tagaytay Zipline experience was more exciting than the Macahambus Zipline. The zipline is longer and the prone position contributed greatly to the feeling. <br />
<br />
Although, my nape hurt a bit because I was craning my neck to see what's in front me. The easier position might be gazing downward but there isn't much to see in the gordge downward. I doubt if anyone would remember to look towards the Taal lake while zipping through. I absolutely forgot Taal. <br />
<br />
The return zip is less frightening except the landing to the other side. <br />
<br />
Maybe it was a busy day that our souvenir items took longer to get printed. The souvenir consist of two diffrent photos and then each printed on coffee mugs.<br />
<br />
We then sought out our companions whom we found busy themselves at the souvenir shops.<br />
<br />
In retrospect, I & Tintin's first out-of-town trip was an exciting adventure and we are looking forward to more exciting and memorable trips across the Philippines and beyond.<br />
<br />
Here are our loot for our <i>Tagaytay Zipline Fun</i>.<!-- google_ad_section_end --><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdiBWn2w-DOQJf2nxn5cO4LqaUmbj0AahLxjEO-nHtDs52ktMJs1h9A9z0VtXHy0LBvzfBwA2fcz1BARFKiCDdRZBEeOiydmdwI8280_op3zkm_8a-SnzM15vWZsXvUHAzLvirBo6GF2w/s1600/Tagaytay-Zipline-Fun-Souvenirs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdiBWn2w-DOQJf2nxn5cO4LqaUmbj0AahLxjEO-nHtDs52ktMJs1h9A9z0VtXHy0LBvzfBwA2fcz1BARFKiCDdRZBEeOiydmdwI8280_op3zkm_8a-SnzM15vWZsXvUHAzLvirBo6GF2w/s400/Tagaytay-Zipline-Fun-Souvenirs.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<blockquote><u>Expenses:</u><br />
<br />
Zipline Round-Trip = Php 400 per person (weekend rate)<br />
Souvenir = Php 200 per person<br />
Picnic Grove Entrance Fee = Php 50. 00<br />
<br />
Get more info at <a href="http://tagaytayzipline.com/" target="_new">tagaytayzipline.com</a></blockquote></span>domshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02399571680998964574noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6951035554448456238.post-47922229251494517872011-06-19T07:23:00.000+08:002011-06-19T07:23:57.269+08:00Jose Rizal - 150th Birth Anniversary<!-- google_ad_section_start -->Today is the Philippine's national hero's - <b>Dr. Jose Rizal</b> - sesquicentennial birth anniversary<br />
<br />
Jose Protasio Rizal Mercado y Alonzo Realonda was a Doctor, a novelist, a polyglot among other attributes and achievements. More than that he was a martyr for Philippine independence from Spain, a national hero and treasure of his beloved country.<!-- google_ad_section_end --><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfLk38fv8wg_6gV_4x86NZFEjk8lT9_QKiYuebgtfwK-0b9_ZfkSmQIseSxgEmQIucXj7ZhfjhZWDZv4zW4B1M19Tt6ZmqTn1Q7kXh0SPUxz9uCXXeWvHG2wRn54IHwJw4ksGHj9HHg6A/s1600/Jose-Rizal-150th-Birth-Anniversary.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfLk38fv8wg_6gV_4x86NZFEjk8lT9_QKiYuebgtfwK-0b9_ZfkSmQIseSxgEmQIucXj7ZhfjhZWDZv4zW4B1M19Tt6ZmqTn1Q7kXh0SPUxz9uCXXeWvHG2wRn54IHwJw4ksGHj9HHg6A/s400/Jose-Rizal-150th-Birth-Anniversary.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<span id="fullpost"><blockquote>He was a proponent of freedom and self-government by peaceful means through institutional reforms rather than by violent revolution. Although José Rizal did admit he will become partial to 'violent means' only as a last resort.[9] Rizal believed that the only justification for national liberation and self-government is the restoration of the dignity of the people; for as he said "...why independence, if the slaves of today will be the tyrants of tomorrow?".<br />
<br />
- <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jos%C3%A9_Rizal" target="_new">Wikipedia</a></blockquote><br />
Today's tyrants are those corrupt government officials who only look after their own gain to the detriment of the common good and general welfare of the Filipino people.<br />
<br />
Happy Birth Anniversary, Dr. Rizal. I hope I get to live to see another "you" and the dawn of Philippine independence from poverty and moral bankruptcy.</span>domshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02399571680998964574noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6951035554448456238.post-60830803010947898402011-06-12T23:38:00.001+08:002011-06-12T23:40:30.265+08:00Tour the Philippines more affordably with AirPhil Express' P113 Flights<!-- google_ad_section_start -->Tour the Philippines more affordably with <b>AirPhil Express' P113 flights.</b><br />
<br />
Airphil Express is offering domestic flights in commemoration of the 113th celebration of the Philippine Independence for only Php 113s.<br />
<br />
Air Philippines Corporation (Airphil Express, formerly known as Air Philippines) is a low-cost airline offering domestic air travel within the Philippines.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://tour-the-philippines.blogspot.com/2011/06/air-phil-express-offers-p113-flights.html" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="171" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2myxU3JimWaRrYe51VPeDStKlLkBdx63VJifdS4GBiur4ygmgRf7pNZWGXImBoNUAGajnIik2tWxRl1rNzCv7syKftB7voQHqt3BvdxSRyCib_oeUXWHIgFHlkfzBA9ZdDXBKQtD3f0s/s400/P113.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<span id="fullpost">With this airfare promo, tourist can travel from Manila to Bacolod, Cagayan de Oro, Cebu, Cotabato, Davao, General Santos, Iloilo, Kalibo, Legazpi, Puerto Princesa, Tacloban, Tagbilaran and Zamboanga or vice versa for only P113 cost of ticket. Cebu to Davao or vice versa also included. (Conditions apply).<br />
<br />
Selling period is only until tomorrow June 13, 2011. Travel period is from October 1 - November 30, 2011.<br />
<br />
Airphil Express allows up to 15 Kg checkin baggage and 7 Kg hand carry for each guest for Free.<br />
<br />
Conditions:<br />
One way<br />
Book and Buy<br />
Exclusive of VAT, applicable Aviation Security Fee and other surcharges<br />
Fare Conditons apply<br />
Limited Seats<br />
Non-refundable<br />
NOn-reroutable<br />
Non-rebookable<br />
Forfeited if not used on flight date shown<br />
<br />
To know more about this airfare promo or book a flight straight away call<br />
Manila (02) 855-9000<br />
Cebu (032) 5051616<br />
<br />
Or visit <a href="http://airphilexpress.com/" taret="_new">www.airphilexpress.com</a></span> <!-- google_ad_section_end -->domshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02399571680998964574noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6951035554448456238.post-7291018537561621972011-05-06T11:46:00.002+08:002011-05-06T11:47:55.039+08:00Managing Expenses During Travel<!-- google_ad_section_start --><b>Managing expenses during travel</b> is a challenging part of the experience.<br />
<br />
When it comes to <a href="http://www.mint.com" target="_new">personal finance</a>, I am a guy who earnestly want to cut expenses daily. I can say that I have relative success doing so. But whenever I travel for leisure, it is extremely difficult to put my spending in check because I'm easy to be caught up with the fun of the moment in a tourist destination. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFea-huXqDvdGdcF5YJWVACPyVcxUnlFZV7BZnVm9lMP2aA63nAUWWBnRKdu_mjcEuO3TBXqTI1xi0gq2xlR1kYjtH9VhH6SDLWe19m3H-l8fTY1VWgOuEoec-uTqx7lOc5Sk1QZnM6uA/s1600/travel-budgetc.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="295" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFea-huXqDvdGdcF5YJWVACPyVcxUnlFZV7BZnVm9lMP2aA63nAUWWBnRKdu_mjcEuO3TBXqTI1xi0gq2xlR1kYjtH9VhH6SDLWe19m3H-l8fTY1VWgOuEoec-uTqx7lOc5Sk1QZnM6uA/s400/travel-budgetc.jpg" /></a><br />
How Do You Manage Expenses During Travel?<br />
Image from <a href="http://travelingwisdom.com/traveling-within-a-budget/" target="_new">travellingwisdom.com</a></div><br />
<span id="fullpost">Daily expenses are easier to manage because I live a fairly routinary life. There may be a day or two when I spend so much on impulse but that surge in expenses is cancelled out by the other days when I spent just a little.<br />
<br />
During travel, however, it is different. Yes, you can plan as diligently as possible to know the cheapest fare and most affordable accomodations available. But when you're already there, it is hard not to get caught up with the moment and fail to <a href="https://www.mint.com" target="_new">manage your personal finances</a>.<br />
<br />
During our <a href="http://tour-the-philippines.blogspot.com/2009/02/cagayan-de-oro-river-whitewater-rafting.html">whitewater rafting adventure in Cagayan de Oro</a>, I almost convinced my companion to abandon our planned itinerary because I want another go with the river rafting which for the record I shamefully dread initially.<br />
<br />
Just recently, <a href="http://tour-the-philippines.blogspot.com/2011/04/revisiting-fort-santiago.html">revisiting Fort Santiago</a> and noticing Tintin's amusement with the Calesa tempted me to rent one to tour her not only inside the Fort but to Intramuros.<br />
<br />
Eventually, I was made to see some financial sense in those instances. I'm sure it would still be a problem in my future travels. I pray by then that I have steely resolve to enjoy traveling on the planned budget.<br />
<br />
<i>How do you manage your expenses when you travel?</i> Please share some tips/experience that can help other tourists when touring the Philippines in the comments.<br />
<br />
:)</span> <!-- google_ad_section_end -->domshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02399571680998964574noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6951035554448456238.post-18718323467093264202011-04-26T12:55:00.002+08:002011-04-26T15:23:02.351+08:00Revisiting Fort Santiago<!-- google_ad_section_start -->An error understanding a news feature got me serendipitously revisiting <b>Fort Santiago</b> last Maundy Thursday, tagging along my girlfriend. Though unplanned, we had a brief chance to step back into Hispanic times. <!-- google_ad_section_end --><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFENc6kw0efGMK2EMS7MnjLuYde3XTygU2LppwNwv7Cilg4ECs1m8phT-R0jBo32YGa-XbZoqC3nWccWan9RwQKoVmPaNhYnbxWCqtt2xpUhH6E1UeZ1eQa_w9BK8sGAi-kgr2RKqXGy0/s1600/Fort-Santiago-April+21+2011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFENc6kw0efGMK2EMS7MnjLuYde3XTygU2LppwNwv7Cilg4ECs1m8phT-R0jBo32YGa-XbZoqC3nWccWan9RwQKoVmPaNhYnbxWCqtt2xpUhH6E1UeZ1eQa_w9BK8sGAi-kgr2RKqXGy0/s400/Fort-Santiago-April+21+2011.jpg" /></a><br />
Our Two Tickets to Fort Santiago</div><br />
<b>Fort Santiago</b> is part of the Walled City of Intramuros who played a key role in the history of the Philippines especially during the colonial times.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHgpfiCYqVxT_mLaIK2hO5ZYLfxWlne2E1x4dcUnnSSYePffANgeqm1zoEA7k31SMqZ6K1__OWm3tO4lq7E1uU51_s7QoYfKvbjG48W3RgEHGwwsExHi879WrgMHx5FvwIh4c_YhzMzB4/s1600/Intramuros-City-Lives-On.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="200" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHgpfiCYqVxT_mLaIK2hO5ZYLfxWlne2E1x4dcUnnSSYePffANgeqm1zoEA7k31SMqZ6K1__OWm3tO4lq7E1uU51_s7QoYfKvbjG48W3RgEHGwwsExHi879WrgMHx5FvwIh4c_YhzMzB4/s400/Intramuros-City-Lives-On.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<span id="fullpost">Not much have changed since the last time I visited Fort Santiago way back in 1996. Well, as far as my memory serves me. Entrance fee for adults is only Php 75.00 each.<br />
<br />
<b>Fort Santiago</b> is 16th century military fortress, built strategically at the mouth of Pasig River. It served to protect the walled city of Intramuros and Manila. The only thing I know about the Fort is that this is the place where our national hero, <i>Jose Rizal</i>, was incarcerated while standing trial for sedition against Spain. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMLuPLQAzAfKf1GoNPxMRsprDLCd6pIeZfgUFJ3lMmrA9XKWwA00Jf9akf2z65OO2GfaQKrcAo0gELL2YZ4-V6J9kNj7Dcfcoa76YoWfQMvBx8IvaTLWMJQMrzOT057CxPvDaHlCrSaok/s1600/Fort-Santiago-Entrance.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMLuPLQAzAfKf1GoNPxMRsprDLCd6pIeZfgUFJ3lMmrA9XKWwA00Jf9akf2z65OO2GfaQKrcAo0gELL2YZ4-V6J9kNj7Dcfcoa76YoWfQMvBx8IvaTLWMJQMrzOT057CxPvDaHlCrSaok/s400/Fort-Santiago-Entrance.jpg" /></a></div><br />
I think that the Fort's best historical feature is the Rizal Shrine, a reconstruction of the colonial period barracks where Rizal was confined. It is now a museum. However, the Shrine was closed on that day.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAKeIkA7bzpAYzBZ8oHI923XROlQ_EbhBUctzUG0kmMA1Ox0xKjGlcY3i33MUdZrOLTMpSsrZfHvRsurmWSDBdTVKb_lawnfsN7EnFEYKlt5iPWOCfuGhG5Vs75W4MfiFLwrWDS2aScUU/s1600/Rizal-Shrine-at-Fort-Santiago.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAKeIkA7bzpAYzBZ8oHI923XROlQ_EbhBUctzUG0kmMA1Ox0xKjGlcY3i33MUdZrOLTMpSsrZfHvRsurmWSDBdTVKb_lawnfsN7EnFEYKlt5iPWOCfuGhG5Vs75W4MfiFLwrWDS2aScUU/s400/Rizal-Shrine-at-Fort-Santiago.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy5eLHrZamoFAt68HmfxbXv5H8jN4jHItCYG-LFQq7W_hcU0XuwX2y-xRrj5rTE6cRR03l9zKabR0hW5kTXi8d6kBXocfb0LZwFH_QChQ5ojtGQOWZIbYmxrZ55mEOv-YRzBT-0TC10Xg/s1600/Rizal-Monument-at-Fort+Santiago.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy5eLHrZamoFAt68HmfxbXv5H8jN4jHItCYG-LFQq7W_hcU0XuwX2y-xRrj5rTE6cRR03l9zKabR0hW5kTXi8d6kBXocfb0LZwFH_QChQ5ojtGQOWZIbYmxrZ55mEOv-YRzBT-0TC10Xg/s400/Rizal-Monument-at-Fort+Santiago.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Apart from Rizal, the Fort also stood witness to many unnamed martyrs and heroes of war marked by a Memorial Cross.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCXuNAKv1lvha053mzoeR3I7XhVmQNS2u6i3jidiLXTG-V0PKQyiy36I1IieXKWUT7fzN3jP4mnzXuEm80RTgfxNNn7DZOvXTGZ4ivgHusT7AjqhgwVaXLhiFZfRvdl6Pa-9neXmxSUGg/s1600/Memorial-Cross-at-Fort-Santiago.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCXuNAKv1lvha053mzoeR3I7XhVmQNS2u6i3jidiLXTG-V0PKQyiy36I1IieXKWUT7fzN3jP4mnzXuEm80RTgfxNNn7DZOvXTGZ4ivgHusT7AjqhgwVaXLhiFZfRvdl6Pa-9neXmxSUGg/s400/Memorial-Cross-at-Fort-Santiago.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6_vlUJ4YTJt7uwTH0Ow1JhvZCXSHwHG4lEtUaQ6l9GkmzBwnXUKFXkkhZzSGtRUo0cjJmi7dxa0G4QwUSUqwt9bctKTyUy1H6xbuEior4rxg5w6Ls1mK82qijI3H-56sUUrRT8weE5yw/s1600/In-Memory-of-Martyrs-of-War-at-Fort-Santiago.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6_vlUJ4YTJt7uwTH0Ow1JhvZCXSHwHG4lEtUaQ6l9GkmzBwnXUKFXkkhZzSGtRUo0cjJmi7dxa0G4QwUSUqwt9bctKTyUy1H6xbuEior4rxg5w6Ls1mK82qijI3H-56sUUrRT8weE5yw/s400/In-Memory-of-Martyrs-of-War-at-Fort-Santiago.jpg" /></a></div><br />
That probably spooked me and Tintin while we were in the Dungeons area.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdONhb_YI9pihsurZ22SKH03q4cbbSnbdOEbxU-VE-EYf0VTI0VX9tQyXh0omSO8JOqp7xlNv229-psDVRn70msVH4YWAExEB-wf1Jbz3DN42sSfLBKGvnWZDv1eoAAOzKx-8csiEZZD4/s1600/Dungeons-at-Fort-Santiago.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdONhb_YI9pihsurZ22SKH03q4cbbSnbdOEbxU-VE-EYf0VTI0VX9tQyXh0omSO8JOqp7xlNv229-psDVRn70msVH4YWAExEB-wf1Jbz3DN42sSfLBKGvnWZDv1eoAAOzKx-8csiEZZD4/s400/Dungeons-at-Fort-Santiago.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIA_hWXhlwgybqnW772fnn_wJF-ye9UpvAkHhAyFAQJ51Gkv9N-hF383j1sP1ek8RQVVG5QVCTTdibeLYum4zkp9WoRhhPrXcFCApbNHlbQ3L-Fkt4Zz4RXBph66sY9YhJZmdzt8zJJ2c/s1600/Dungeons-at-Fort-Santiago-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIA_hWXhlwgybqnW772fnn_wJF-ye9UpvAkHhAyFAQJ51Gkv9N-hF383j1sP1ek8RQVVG5QVCTTdibeLYum4zkp9WoRhhPrXcFCApbNHlbQ3L-Fkt4Zz4RXBph66sY9YhJZmdzt8zJJ2c/s400/Dungeons-at-Fort-Santiago-2.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Other photos inside Fort Santiago.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq_i3DJAWzdrzIL3B1y-lq0CLt6SvVP7sbvMOjw1rl0NqC3q0bxKLY6tCCp7eQ33kgvQecbrGp4EHkCmsVFsdZoGZ9TTZ4j25veRhBkV07kpsni-fJDFUeLRX3cYrhyQPDi80us6KxhxM/s1600/Fort-Santiago-from-afar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq_i3DJAWzdrzIL3B1y-lq0CLt6SvVP7sbvMOjw1rl0NqC3q0bxKLY6tCCp7eQ33kgvQecbrGp4EHkCmsVFsdZoGZ9TTZ4j25veRhBkV07kpsni-fJDFUeLRX3cYrhyQPDi80us6KxhxM/s400/Fort-Santiago-from-afar.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnVBL_nib8Tf-P1zA_3iYu5Ug7KvqcjZl8bGnhalBxRP7YhGkS_H5lSpL8jw0SUcmojyPH5cjhAPcAUhm6Ark9u8esFsfNdgPiR_IBdnN9iXeg7hxwiON24R7Xaj5YMfxQcCSRe10Sf88/s1600/Intramuros-Tranvia-at-Fort-Santiago.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnVBL_nib8Tf-P1zA_3iYu5Ug7KvqcjZl8bGnhalBxRP7YhGkS_H5lSpL8jw0SUcmojyPH5cjhAPcAUhm6Ark9u8esFsfNdgPiR_IBdnN9iXeg7hxwiON24R7Xaj5YMfxQcCSRe10Sf88/s400/Intramuros-Tranvia-at-Fort-Santiago.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg03dwfSAK9NRxBW3o8-HhEo8ipZhEsCPr0vzwbBebX5cBBOkOpWqoJK0PVhgkRNtbaMRGah0z2UZ-0sy9_3Z16nj6EBeR6_JGTVYYJFlDgLW6nOobeRz89qXoEAZURLUOgtJQMIxNym1c/s1600/Us-at-Intramuros-Tranvia.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg03dwfSAK9NRxBW3o8-HhEo8ipZhEsCPr0vzwbBebX5cBBOkOpWqoJK0PVhgkRNtbaMRGah0z2UZ-0sy9_3Z16nj6EBeR6_JGTVYYJFlDgLW6nOobeRz89qXoEAZURLUOgtJQMIxNym1c/s400/Us-at-Intramuros-Tranvia.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTwdXx7P47vTNAMECl5V1MLc7HOm1a3SsOFfe-w5gGk1X3fP71ED8azfLdAb1igKs-kYxX6g6zdmuHHBOzP6GMC436W82UEtsgsKBarmoyuGhj61ZuphgZ-BD-1rHfRF-h6JPgWHk9WxU/s1600/inside-fort-santiago.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTwdXx7P47vTNAMECl5V1MLc7HOm1a3SsOFfe-w5gGk1X3fP71ED8azfLdAb1igKs-kYxX6g6zdmuHHBOzP6GMC436W82UEtsgsKBarmoyuGhj61ZuphgZ-BD-1rHfRF-h6JPgWHk9WxU/s400/inside-fort-santiago.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsSsbv6-h2ZnRrd9fWlHN2N6lYI4RsnzcEeIcdRtW9GYnIDV4T6zg6NjrabswXlh_1mwq6yzVPJgWpttLJOrtlLWClRVfE9phYc-FgscvR90XebmXW7u_iA6s3YLKDUhiw9p9GPIhDAC4/s1600/inside-fort-santiago2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsSsbv6-h2ZnRrd9fWlHN2N6lYI4RsnzcEeIcdRtW9GYnIDV4T6zg6NjrabswXlh_1mwq6yzVPJgWpttLJOrtlLWClRVfE9phYc-FgscvR90XebmXW7u_iA6s3YLKDUhiw9p9GPIhDAC4/s400/inside-fort-santiago2.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeXnv76S8U8OwQ5Hobg7FBnxHgYV_QsKKM8hyKqrx9AMXlSC_vdnKXRJhwZ67AkjeiWKPhLuvopH4-hfSCp2UKmczfoZRv0SDipUeL5vlDDa1es8YoKPpR5sxA3AXGU9F-_CuHiRpqPQU/s1600/inside-fort-santiago3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeXnv76S8U8OwQ5Hobg7FBnxHgYV_QsKKM8hyKqrx9AMXlSC_vdnKXRJhwZ67AkjeiWKPhLuvopH4-hfSCp2UKmczfoZRv0SDipUeL5vlDDa1es8YoKPpR5sxA3AXGU9F-_CuHiRpqPQU/s400/inside-fort-santiago3.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguUbhGsToAICaMwLy7VXI4jlx5IbixXiAcHqlizZbn-MZr7qgqCbzyZZC2bRKdLOGveLSYQ5Ix_NkXYnIe-9AHeOI66Iqhj5nB0GdRCGk95PgDvvKNucTeRX7OzEtmXU9nNLGOc0cIyo4/s1600/inside-fort-santiago4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguUbhGsToAICaMwLy7VXI4jlx5IbixXiAcHqlizZbn-MZr7qgqCbzyZZC2bRKdLOGveLSYQ5Ix_NkXYnIe-9AHeOI66Iqhj5nB0GdRCGk95PgDvvKNucTeRX7OzEtmXU9nNLGOc0cIyo4/s400/inside-fort-santiago4.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihXsk7EEQa2FgZJHMFgGz24X_K2qKAZEysXnXWrdmoSYG26h9CTU9j8ZslLbcFD-X50HX8Sh5vLZBtbGAedB_wy_CMSjGV1vC3oMw_IEEO_HIRD6LiAG_ZbL9cefbzPWje8YuKp9j0pEI/s1600/inside-fort-santiago5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihXsk7EEQa2FgZJHMFgGz24X_K2qKAZEysXnXWrdmoSYG26h9CTU9j8ZslLbcFD-X50HX8Sh5vLZBtbGAedB_wy_CMSjGV1vC3oMw_IEEO_HIRD6LiAG_ZbL9cefbzPWje8YuKp9j0pEI/s400/inside-fort-santiago5.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Tintin got an immediate liking to the calesa, insisting that she ought to have photos with those. We inquired about the fees for a ride and found 50 pesos/per head for two laps around the main plaza too high.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUYEqgJzXSn0sEQUFGUFrU_3UG4hrkASjHgFXewQRfqUYwe6ljrtg6mE3DQblYODABmEOU-Z1o1vC7x_4Bk9Z-SMa7j27pzbhh4KH_FyN5nwnmsu1jdriN-hnUMzfY8psZsYikobZxuEY/s1600/the-calesa-parked-at-Fort-Santiago2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUYEqgJzXSn0sEQUFGUFrU_3UG4hrkASjHgFXewQRfqUYwe6ljrtg6mE3DQblYODABmEOU-Z1o1vC7x_4Bk9Z-SMa7j27pzbhh4KH_FyN5nwnmsu1jdriN-hnUMzfY8psZsYikobZxuEY/s400/the-calesa-parked-at-Fort-Santiago2.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIiPUxKnZbbnq8QgISeqB-Afb3YIB7-v2sFtsUsEtX9i9QckaXH92FY8a8sIMCqKCcbqDKBar6CNLswJBb2wxtVKgwYKox-gVTOyvd4on753FjYhCeiADERA_NLFEsvnPEhb5rQpfIIRc/s1600/the-calesa-parked-at-Fort-Santiago.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIiPUxKnZbbnq8QgISeqB-Afb3YIB7-v2sFtsUsEtX9i9QckaXH92FY8a8sIMCqKCcbqDKBar6CNLswJBb2wxtVKgwYKox-gVTOyvd4on753FjYhCeiADERA_NLFEsvnPEhb5rQpfIIRc/s400/the-calesa-parked-at-Fort-Santiago.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggDvauEfpnQNDZDdrmjRukMBIRu1ZE3aFa7SrxlpPhUPxH2OuIrAxIfwbhVHYsVjlrWHpXO1Cd4kwkn2nG_bevxF-e_RC_A62cRzYomdSOPLOHsUv4M7-RnM6xqgXM5h_P5DX4Ax58W2E/s1600/Tintin-and-the-calesa-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggDvauEfpnQNDZDdrmjRukMBIRu1ZE3aFa7SrxlpPhUPxH2OuIrAxIfwbhVHYsVjlrWHpXO1Cd4kwkn2nG_bevxF-e_RC_A62cRzYomdSOPLOHsUv4M7-RnM6xqgXM5h_P5DX4Ax58W2E/s400/Tintin-and-the-calesa-3.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRR7TrlNqP4xD7ZD62CaLVHlk9ncqn5HFODs_40wZ4I_rBbiOQQMsQg87oMa81VosH7Ko9u2xUcgj6EG7wMu7pzRHGDeX36PEbWaIR0tDvK2iNLxAJjMdbaB6LNk2vqFY8LPdxf9hjA2w/s1600/Tintin-and-the-calesa-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRR7TrlNqP4xD7ZD62CaLVHlk9ncqn5HFODs_40wZ4I_rBbiOQQMsQg87oMa81VosH7Ko9u2xUcgj6EG7wMu7pzRHGDeX36PEbWaIR0tDvK2iNLxAJjMdbaB6LNk2vqFY8LPdxf9hjA2w/s400/Tintin-and-the-calesa-1.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9eFz23MYRzap2xzXr2EbxFV2_Tb8qPuZX-MqBMZAjgDgBslqL8qak-zOnzZLn2yo8-wWfFZn6CBt-F-ZvdvU2s5bb4mxa6pwHVgj195J4kyj7SfrfVkRfgbrU27tQ5ZWwyUJHjBzi9lo/s1600/Tintin-and-the-calesa-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9eFz23MYRzap2xzXr2EbxFV2_Tb8qPuZX-MqBMZAjgDgBslqL8qak-zOnzZLn2yo8-wWfFZn6CBt-F-ZvdvU2s5bb4mxa6pwHVgj195J4kyj7SfrfVkRfgbrU27tQ5ZWwyUJHjBzi9lo/s400/Tintin-and-the-calesa-2.jpg" /></a></div><br />
We definitely not have enough feel of history and the Philippines in the older days. We look forward into visiting other historical sites like <b>Fort Santiago</b> in the country as we continue to tour the Philippines.<br />
<br />
<i>To history buffs out there, what other historical site in the Philippines should we visit next?</i><br />
</span>domshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02399571680998964574noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6951035554448456238.post-78392621854730638272011-04-22T23:31:00.001+08:002011-04-22T23:35:00.919+08:00Visita Iglesia | Way of the Cross in 14 Churches in the City of Manila<!-- google_ad_section_start --><b>Visita Iglesia</b> is a religious tradition practised by Filipino Catholics mostly on Maundy Thursday as part of their Holy Week Celebration. It involves visiting churches and praying the Stations of the Cross. <br />
<br />
The Visita Iglesia to some degree is a pilgrimage, believed to grant favors from God and even miracles. Others do it annually as a panata or vow because a special wish came true.<br />
<br />
<span id="fullpost">In the tail end of my college years, Joey become a friend. He was the one who introduced to me and our other friends the concept of <b>Visita Iglesia</b>. <br />
<br />
Our Visita Iglesia involves visiting 14 churches in the City of Manila on foot. No, we are not barefooted. In each church, we pray one station of the Catholic prayer Stations of the Cross. We go to the designated area inside the church for the specific station. But because there are so many people doing this tradition, we try to be as close as possible.<br />
<br />
Our journey begins, ideally after the Last Supper Mass in Tondo, to Intramuros, to Quiapo and into the Sampaloc district of Manila. <br />
<br />
The churches that we visit for our Visita Iglesia are in the following order:<br />
<br />
<center><br />
St. John Bosco Parish Church (Tondo, Manila)<br />
[No Church Photo yet]<br />
***<br />
<br />
Sto. Niño de Tondo Parish<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGbNVt5SvTyVe1z7xia2gP4v1XKau-B8e3tpN79MmTrZVw2rFV6-k0GWf_1K9EphAtC5KyMZL2UOweaIOE8cE_3dp4MLMuYSF7MnEOddk3-kcBXEmipqcm4aeLzqs6FThAF2vDm5oRt_4/s1600/Sto.+Ni%25C3%25B1o+de+Tondo+Parish+Church.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img alt="Sto. Niño de Tondo Parish Church" border="0" height="400" width="346" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGbNVt5SvTyVe1z7xia2gP4v1XKau-B8e3tpN79MmTrZVw2rFV6-k0GWf_1K9EphAtC5KyMZL2UOweaIOE8cE_3dp4MLMuYSF7MnEOddk3-kcBXEmipqcm4aeLzqs6FThAF2vDm5oRt_4/s400/Sto.+Ni%25C3%25B1o+de+Tondo+Parish+Church.jpg" /></a><br />
Sto. Niño de Tondo Church<br />
Image from <a href="http://simbahan.net/2009/04/02/visita-iglesia-seven-old-manila-churches/" target="_new">simbahan.net</a></div>***<br />
<br />
Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage Parish (Delpan, Tondo, Manila)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiReyZKRKjMLYecJA3JQswg4aq6dUiMKVv8v-S49KmxrDwJ-98hfCidgLd8tYnbkhuIo5GAqXn0zdbvBln82lymmOaIXY1rfoyZHNDl4dw0E97tCW9oQC6Bwm6Nj9LjqB8OASbdwLcw_2w/s1600/Our-Lady-of-Peace-and-Good-Voyage-Church-Delpan-Tondo-Manila.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img alt="Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage Parish - Delpan, Tondo, Manila" border="0" height="300" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiReyZKRKjMLYecJA3JQswg4aq6dUiMKVv8v-S49KmxrDwJ-98hfCidgLd8tYnbkhuIo5GAqXn0zdbvBln82lymmOaIXY1rfoyZHNDl4dw0E97tCW9oQC6Bwm6Nj9LjqB8OASbdwLcw_2w/s400/Our-Lady-of-Peace-and-Good-Voyage-Church-Delpan-Tondo-Manila.jpg" /></a><br />
Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage Church<br />
Image from <a href="http://www.agustinosrecoletos.com/estaticos/view/10/?lang=en_US" target="_new">agustinosrecoletos.com</a></div>***<br />
<br />
Minor Basilica of the Immaculate Conception <br />
Manila Metropolitan Cathedral<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgad5I-ccR5e61lXN6rC-i0jbg9BPLjCBxtdi1i2ZjLbq5HymYCKopO9EquPkv1iRywbIJ0AGeoeHvloYxaA3z4cWvnEPJmfULSc9Ia-8Peld8oE7sfl7Gk2nK7VjoDmi1gf2KEM9kszW8/s1600/The-Manila-Cathedral.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img alt="The Manila Cathedral - Minor Basilica of the Immaculate Conception" border="0" height="301" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgad5I-ccR5e61lXN6rC-i0jbg9BPLjCBxtdi1i2ZjLbq5HymYCKopO9EquPkv1iRywbIJ0AGeoeHvloYxaA3z4cWvnEPJmfULSc9Ia-8Peld8oE7sfl7Gk2nK7VjoDmi1gf2KEM9kszW8/s400/The-Manila-Cathedral.jpg" /></a><br />
The Manila Cathedral</div>***<br />
<br />
San Agustin Church<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4d9w6e_n2_QTXXhBNwWdu0uT4kxfU_w0thdVTH38WVSBaWkl0eD6rmysP5b6gA3dyN2BQZ3KhixLgLdnC-yFX03XZ0TGxbCOUQVTE8i9flqA9WFlxKcnvDWBqWkTcuvdB9rxUPgNyHKo/s1600/The-San-Agustin-Church.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img alt="San Agustin Church - Intramuros, Manila" border="0" height="300" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4d9w6e_n2_QTXXhBNwWdu0uT4kxfU_w0thdVTH38WVSBaWkl0eD6rmysP5b6gA3dyN2BQZ3KhixLgLdnC-yFX03XZ0TGxbCOUQVTE8i9flqA9WFlxKcnvDWBqWkTcuvdB9rxUPgNyHKo/s400/The-San-Agustin-Church.jpg" /></a></div>***<br />
<br />
Santa Cruz Parish Church<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8ckqfEiRy2AB8cG53SEVjpP8GtoLPYFoBwNvTAb9-I2ZITWriH2-yRFfP2LT96aMvH5CP6h7NI6UZXvCzGoVb7xm__p-EboFpF4ILoeKUXhI56edMh8_OYpv9o0HNfc6EGsyQZNEBHT4/s1600/Santa-Cruz-Church.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img alt="Santa Cruz Parish Church" border="0" height="274" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8ckqfEiRy2AB8cG53SEVjpP8GtoLPYFoBwNvTAb9-I2ZITWriH2-yRFfP2LT96aMvH5CP6h7NI6UZXvCzGoVb7xm__p-EboFpF4ILoeKUXhI56edMh8_OYpv9o0HNfc6EGsyQZNEBHT4/s400/Santa-Cruz-Church.JPG" /></a><br />
The Sta. Cruz Church<br />
Image from <a href="http://archieriva.i.ph/blogs/archieriva/2008/03/21/visita-iglesias-en-ciudad-de-manila/" target="_new">archieriva.i.ph</a></div>***<br />
<br />
St. John the Baptist Parish<br />
Minor Basilica of the Black Nazarene<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgYq5160PkS8rHK_tsFd0jH7-jnoPXx9xqO3OJSVFhALlq1iAeKAPPv7D28cAzsL4gQNeNXDfVQMAWIwmqeV8l7MPVQ_SvufxCm-oQKDJigoGZr7PNcZgFVczuEWhc4I9STQ9j-0p7yJ8/s1600/minor-basilia-of-the-black-nazarene-quiapo-church.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="266" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgYq5160PkS8rHK_tsFd0jH7-jnoPXx9xqO3OJSVFhALlq1iAeKAPPv7D28cAzsL4gQNeNXDfVQMAWIwmqeV8l7MPVQ_SvufxCm-oQKDJigoGZr7PNcZgFVczuEWhc4I9STQ9j-0p7yJ8/s400/minor-basilia-of-the-black-nazarene-quiapo-church.jpg" /></a><br />
The Quiapo Church<br />
Image from <a href="http://ilonggoexplorer.wordpress.com/2011/01/25/finding-strength-and-believing-in-miracles/" target="_new">ilonggoexplorer.wordpress.com</a></div>***<br />
<br />
<br />
Shrine of the Holy Face of Jesus<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2PAJuyU7oXgaSgRTIPcnwLQgIcwG3dRuUDqkiLoMfnimFNNcVxVuYGmXryFRLR5mlH72X6JW1QqJ88GazUS1rqbLO7n8Q1i8A7CmvWNflI1EBIzVmRFTiiwjW2VdrhntRGIymQLSXUzA/s1600/Shrine-of-the-Holy-Face-of-Jesus-Hidalgo-Quiapo-Manila.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="303" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2PAJuyU7oXgaSgRTIPcnwLQgIcwG3dRuUDqkiLoMfnimFNNcVxVuYGmXryFRLR5mlH72X6JW1QqJ88GazUS1rqbLO7n8Q1i8A7CmvWNflI1EBIzVmRFTiiwjW2VdrhntRGIymQLSXUzA/s400/Shrine-of-the-Holy-Face-of-Jesus-Hidalgo-Quiapo-Manila.jpg" /></a><br />
Shrine of the Holy Face of Jesus Church<br />
Image from <a href="http://www.dez-myonlineworld.com/2009/04/visita-iglesia-on-holy-thursday.html" target="_new">dez-myonlineworld.com</a></div>***<br />
<br />
Minor Basilica of San Sebastian<br />
Our Lady of Mount Carmel<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS1VR3WKzEGSXjiZpfJGE2lGCsGRMj-UHCZ8_tK-lFPbD0HnoHXjH8Gs3YLwBCoZpECml_KK7LY6Ubsv-byuXJzVbs5ZxuzGp95QnYZg5ntXfC1j90_sdfJNF_9etFlI3vMpSL-UFXlsI/s1600/San-Sebastian-Church.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS1VR3WKzEGSXjiZpfJGE2lGCsGRMj-UHCZ8_tK-lFPbD0HnoHXjH8Gs3YLwBCoZpECml_KK7LY6Ubsv-byuXJzVbs5ZxuzGp95QnYZg5ntXfC1j90_sdfJNF_9etFlI3vMpSL-UFXlsI/s400/San-Sebastian-Church.jpg" /></a><br />
The San Sebastian Church<br />
Image from <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Basilica_of_San_Sebastian,_Manila" target="_new" >wikipedia</a></div>***<br />
<br />
National Shrine of St. Michael and the Archangels <br />
Villa de San Miguel<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj93BM-AsV8ZGsmpVpG9UFSQbZ5BaKu0nFA0jrFUy7Sud-ZD59TcMwX1jiNppLBJ8BB4ix4eMz4Wjfn2jzygZyDiknNuXkooO5MjDzS38yRj-gBFVG_-AHwolGGGDG9EDe56tyuSZduy1E/s1600/San-Miguel-Church.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj93BM-AsV8ZGsmpVpG9UFSQbZ5BaKu0nFA0jrFUy7Sud-ZD59TcMwX1jiNppLBJ8BB4ix4eMz4Wjfn2jzygZyDiknNuXkooO5MjDzS38yRj-gBFVG_-AHwolGGGDG9EDe56tyuSZduy1E/s400/San-Miguel-Church.jpg" /></a><br />
San Miguel Church near Malacanang<br />
Image from <a href="http://my.opera.com/josephnepomucin/albums/showpic.dml?album=735845&picture=9930308" target="_new">Joseph Nepomucin N. Niez</a></div>***<br />
<br />
St. Jude Archdiocesan Shrine<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMr5AE6c3_-boA9pu5bpxUM-fseomZNFjMTJ-naa7O_FT9OUhGEdP8q5LOeLARv-Yp0LAm2n9UZDRcCByGUlluiBk6YkeaofJYhn9hoV42baflxD2fzJ8jB7fJ_fiu2NQpKWwyOHNuQSg/s1600/St-Jude-Archdiocesan-Shrine.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img alt="St. Jude Archdiocesan Shrine - Manila" border="0" height="303" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMr5AE6c3_-boA9pu5bpxUM-fseomZNFjMTJ-naa7O_FT9OUhGEdP8q5LOeLARv-Yp0LAm2n9UZDRcCByGUlluiBk6YkeaofJYhn9hoV42baflxD2fzJ8jB7fJ_fiu2NQpKWwyOHNuQSg/s400/St-Jude-Archdiocesan-Shrine.jpg" /></a><br />
St. Jude Church near Malacanang<br />
Image from <a href="http://www.dez-myonlineworld.com/2009/04/visita-iglesia-on-holy-thursday.html" target="_new">dez-myonlineworld.com</a></div>***<br />
<br />
Abbey of Our Lady of Montserrat<br />
Church of the Benedictine Monks<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5cgyFd4ywOJlQx7Q-Z5KmhQ_vKoMOi4uJcXufJO7UkU_IOG5QrCkmae1Iz2sIFhE9I0DiPTCGF_Ep9CbXewhoaRmb3h7Ze_xPsiuEh39fnA0S1WtF-Dz-jb24O87aDAjtcI913_i8lkg/s1600/San-Beda-Church-Mendiola-Manila.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5cgyFd4ywOJlQx7Q-Z5KmhQ_vKoMOi4uJcXufJO7UkU_IOG5QrCkmae1Iz2sIFhE9I0DiPTCGF_Ep9CbXewhoaRmb3h7Ze_xPsiuEh39fnA0S1WtF-Dz-jb24O87aDAjtcI913_i8lkg/s400/San-Beda-Church-Mendiola-Manila.jpg" /></a><br />
San Beda College Chapel<br />
Image from <a href="http://www.panoramio.com/photo/6209702" target="_new">panoramio.com</a></div>***<br />
<br />
Saint Anthony 0f Padua Shrine<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjErkTybVRyRTyo7KZqh63YAZt1v9YQakZTTYgIg8gYdivGgPnfR2mKAWGml5ZhREdfsrEoEFr60vdCKO1ZXK3Q-hRq7hlGo3K0gKVsb3XZddacOjKM5IDqB_pHIa4IfTxt_LZpg28iUhs/s1600/Saint-Anthony-of-Padua-Shrine.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjErkTybVRyRTyo7KZqh63YAZt1v9YQakZTTYgIg8gYdivGgPnfR2mKAWGml5ZhREdfsrEoEFr60vdCKO1ZXK3Q-hRq7hlGo3K0gKVsb3XZddacOjKM5IDqB_pHIa4IfTxt_LZpg28iUhs/s400/Saint-Anthony-of-Padua-Shrine.jpg" /></a><br />
St. Anthony of Padua Church<br />
Image from <a href="http://philippinetravelnotes.blogspot.com/2011/03/twin-churches-of-bustillos.html" target="_new">philippinetravelnotes.blogspot.com</a></div>***<br />
<br />
Archdiocesan Shrine of Our Lady of Loreto Parish<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvN5p0gt_S1wmTxLTpxLRHPa4Nsawgw6pnymUucWXvurmkz4jnHFHGGH94GpXId76shZcl-lmAl7_MG5yN104oQXWO_0jE7paxHXTGKHXfRIoRdSifvUaXzrs_5HjhyCvG7_xAKaZ0cpo/s1600/Our-Lady-of-Loreto-Church.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvN5p0gt_S1wmTxLTpxLRHPa4Nsawgw6pnymUucWXvurmkz4jnHFHGGH94GpXId76shZcl-lmAl7_MG5yN104oQXWO_0jE7paxHXTGKHXfRIoRdSifvUaXzrs_5HjhyCvG7_xAKaZ0cpo/s400/Our-Lady-of-Loreto-Church.jpg" /></a><br />
Our Lady of Loreto Church<br />
Image from <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/loeweann/5255378450/" target="_new">flickr - Loewe Lagdan's Photostream</a></div>***<br />
<br />
</center><br />
<br />
As this kind of activity also serves as a barkada kitakits, chatter and playful banter is evident as we go from church to church. But that would gradually fade in the latter churches as tiredness slowly crept among our legs. <br />
<br />
But after finishing our Visita Iglesia, we are all smiles, feeling rejuvenated from within. And perhaps, each of us are hopeful that our special request would be granted.<br />
<br />
I can't see how this tradition will cease. There is even an <a href="http://visitaiglesia.net/" target="_new">online visita iglesia</a> now. I believe that this activity is a perfect combination of prayer and sacrifice. A great experience to share with the family or friends during the Holy Week. And of course, there is the tourism aspect of knowing more about the City of Manila through its churches and streets.<br />
<!-- google_ad_section_end --><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
</span>domshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02399571680998964574noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6951035554448456238.post-65745605150902474072011-04-05T22:41:00.001+08:002011-04-05T22:45:01.265+08:00Sea Travel via Super Ferry's Todo-Todo Sail Sale<!-- google_ad_section_start -->Super Ferry is the country's largest shipping company and is offering discounted tickets to those wishing to tour the Philippines by ship via its Todo-todo Sail Sale promo.<br />
<br />
Sea travel is an enjoyable experience when the sea is calm allowing longer time to enjoy the seas, the islands and other tourist attractions. <!-- google_ad_section_end --><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw__cmpCM8QK1azJlaBlBVuhI7AGunYI3Z5-lIGpwsOpiR372xrtV5x2dmZISHBMMp8eOl2cGTUlHrG8AobTcannB3AIxeFrqonXu-iauurzTKaK2UuxZ6NghaJkrJ0pFLYBfeT266RE8/s1600/6.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="254" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw__cmpCM8QK1azJlaBlBVuhI7AGunYI3Z5-lIGpwsOpiR372xrtV5x2dmZISHBMMp8eOl2cGTUlHrG8AobTcannB3AIxeFrqonXu-iauurzTKaK2UuxZ6NghaJkrJ0pFLYBfeT266RE8/s400/6.gif" /></a><br />
from <a href="http://www.superferry.com.ph/" target="_new">superferry.com.ph</a></div><br />
<span id="fullpost">In this ticket sale, Super Ferry is offering Php 588 only for a trip from Manila to the visayas islands or vice versa. Also, it will only be Php 888 to travel from Manila to Mindano or vice versa.<br />
<br />
The discounted tickets will only be sold until tomorrow, April 6, 2011 but the actual travel can be from May 1 - June 30, 2011.<br />
<br />
For those who isn't decided yet and will not be able to purchase the discounted tickets on this sale, Super Ferry offer year-round TRIPID Fares. That would only be Php 750 for Manila-Visayas or vice-versa and Php 1150 to Manila-Mindanao or vice versa.<br />
<br />
Prices mentioned are only of the tickets. Other fees are not included.<br />
<br />
I already rode a ferry boats to Bataan & Camiguin. Also, some small bancas. And lucky for me, the trip was enjoyable. It was rather short trips so the sights are limited. But I did enjoyed seeing your destination from a far, and seeing it closer and closer. <br />
<br />
I would sure love to be on big ships ala-Titanic on longer sea travel. From what I heard, spending time inside the ship is an experience in itself and view would be nice in calm weather. It presents longer time to take enjoy beautiful place, take more photos and simply chat with companions during the journey. I envy those who have provinces to go to during vacation and been accustomed to sea travel. <br />
<br />
Barring being sea-sick or rough waters, I pray that I may be able to tour the Philippines via sea travel in the near future. </span>domshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02399571680998964574noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6951035554448456238.post-22104418549825674782011-03-15T13:52:00.001+08:002011-03-15T13:56:33.427+08:00World Class Fireworks Seen at the 2011 PyroMusical International Competition at Mall of Asia<!-- google_ad_section_start -->I, together with GF Tintin, former MH housemates and new alumni friend Judith, tried to catch the last day of the <b>2011 PyroMusical Competition</b> at the Mall of Asia grounds last Saturday evening and get a glimpse of world class fireworks.<!-- google_ad_section_end --><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://tour-the-philippines.blogspot.com/2011/03/world-class-firewoks-at-moa.html" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="164" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8OCTdnYDHH1tfxXon9btnD-TKbx327_TvgGVC8N3cYDRx6jGeXJa_4cKHm8G9g6NzHwTSItXAd5g2Pnt7u6nraZeboQYbxonuDwcCWE_Jnzjte41JfIioSULFuHvt7nH2mnxdu9p1e9M/s400/Philippine-International-Pyromusical-Competition-MOA.jpg" /></a><br />
The Philippine International Pyromusical Competition<br />
Image collated from official <a href="http://www.pyrophilippines.com/" target="_new">website</a></div><br />
<span id="fullpost">The <a href="http://www.pyrophilippines.com/about-us/" target="_new">2nd Philippine International Pyromusical Competition</a> ran from Februay 12 - March 12, 2011 at the SM Mall of Asia, the country’s top lifestyle mall by the scenic Manila Bay. The annual event put on a never-before-seen spectacle of lights and colors where the night sky and sea meet as staged by the world’s leading pyrotechnic experts.<br />
<br />
As usual, traffic proved to be a killjoy, for us. We didn't even reached the grounds of Mall of Asia. As the jeepney we took was virtually parked on the road because of the traffic, we just joined a crowd of people in a vacant grassy lot along Macapagal highway, in between Blue Wave and the Toyota Service Center.<br />
<br />
The following pics are just what we came up, courtesy of GF Tintin's cellphone camera:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://tour-the-philippines.blogspot.com/2011/03/world-class-firewoks-at-moa.html" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img alt="World Class Fireworks Seen at the 2011 PyroMusical International Competition at Mall of Asia - Picture 1" border="0" height="240" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqD1fRHrbmZLyrtgq8b8dA4AdIIb4GjrW-zaNodjTLbW_b7HcAYuUtU23tBZCuKHB5rfYiyOka7OfE5EGbeX9Cflm01K8d0LLX7SUfCIkIWFYyhpKQozdd3fGL1YUNl0uHmTncb_fKGnM/s320/2011-Pyromusical-MOA-1.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://tour-the-philippines.blogspot.com/2011/03/world-class-firewoks-at-moa.html" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img alt="World Class Fireworks Seen at the 2011 PyroMusical International Competition at Mall of Asia - Picture 2" border="0" height="240" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxYowVQgG5J1uT3hOHMEm6IgPeCfVennRblM2__zC2Wi3WaAn0atlYO4AxB7OXpmh_OWgx-G1Z1gSzr9nivHjQEiUhPk-y4D43PRv1GEDsagGoWF_6emSNkEiPD65iEiHhrIMFB3bbl6s/s320/2011-Pyromusical-MOA-2.jpg" /></a></div><br />
As Philippines was scheduled last, we caught a good part of the presentation. And even from a far, some cheers, oohs! and claps can be heard from the sizable crowd amongst us.<br />
<br />
I bet if we could just view closer and longer, we could've definitely witnessed world class fireworks.<br />
<br />
We are all looking forward to 2012 Pyromusical Competition. And we vow, not to let traffic get in the way of viewing world class fireworks.<br />
<br />
:)<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
</span>domshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02399571680998964574noreply@blogger.com0