2012: The Year That Was

2012 has been a great year for me. It was a year of spontaneous travels, numerous food trips and finally took the road that I've really wanted since I was a kid. Truth be told, it was my most extensive travel year yet. I have traveled to as far as Lingayen, Baler, Clark, Baguio down to the most underrated province, Siquijor. Oh, I shouldn't forget my Kota Kinabalu trip!

There were times that I have doubted myself if I am doing the right decisions. Well, even though that I haven't achieved some of my goals, at least I have learned so many valuable lessons not just in traveling  but life in general.

This shouldn't be long. Now presenting, the obligatory year-end post: 2012: The Year That Was

Whaddup, homeslice?

And I made a promise that I should finish all of my backlogs after Christmas since I should start reviewing for the departure and arrival charts. Wow, talking about studying on a holiday break! Bummer. Well, it's not that I'm complaining... It's just, I always look forward for this much-awaited break. I got giddy when the plane finally landed at Davao! Nevertheless, I appreciated the true spirit of Christmas more than last year. I appreciated the presence of my family and relatives, celebrating noche buena together.

So yeah, what's up? I know that I haven't had any serious travels since August. But I'm going to share a bit of something about my new journey.

Pasko Fiesta: Celebrating Christmas in Davao

Ho ho ho! 'Tis the season to be jolly Fa la la la, la la la la! 

And all I thought I won't come home for the first time due to the busy schedule of our training. But thank God, we were granted to have a one and a half week break - a much-awaited break to be more precise. And as my scheduled flight to Davao drew nearer, I get excited and giddy, knowing that I'd spend the holiday seasons with my family, friends and to a place where I truly belong.

Your Guide to Surviving Post-Holiday Air Travel

The RITA (Research and Innovative Technology Administration) Bureau of Transportation Statistics reports that "during the Christmas/New Year Holiday [air travel] rises by 23 percent." As millions are stuffed into into airplanes and weather conditions change flight schedules problems for passengers escalate. Believe it or not, the right attitude and a solid plan can alleviate most travel frustrations, read these tips and become a holiday-travel expert—happy flying!

See The World in Style on the Vision of the Seas

The Vision Of The Seas gives its name to what is arguably the most sophisticated and elegant class of ships in the Royal Caribbean fleet. As ever with ships of its calibre there is a huge range of activity options for guests to choice from throughout the day and on into the evening. A key element of which is focussed on the food side of the equation, with a banquet of cuisines always on offer on the Vision. You can do very little indeed or you can try your hand at every last activity but the real draw of the whole thing remains the views and on the Vision you really are able to see some truly stunning regions of the world. For the very best vantage point, you'll want to head up to the Viking Lounge, which offers incredible views in every direction.

Thailand Boosting Its Medical Tourism Industry

Photo credit by wcpath.org

Medical tourism is a term that has two possible meanings; it can refer to obtaining treatment for medical conditions in a foreign country or improving wellness with spa and relaxation activities.Thailand is considered a leader in the medical tourism industry; it offers both options for tourists who want to improve health or work on treating a medical condition for a reasonable price.

According to TTGAsia.com, Thailand has an incentive to work on the best medical facilities and tourism activities for visitors. TTGAsia.com suggests that medical tourism adds billions to the country’s economy because visitors are seeking medical treatments, relaxing spa activities and other wellness options as an alternative to the traditional tourist actions.

No Turning Back

Now, the battle has just begun. After my short vacation in Davao last week... Oh wait, it wasn't really a vacation per se since I was soooo busy reviewing for our final examssss. Honestly, I did not expect that it would be THAT hard.

The Things I Hate About Flying

Traveling around the Philippines is indeed challenging. In order to maximize time, one has to fly from one island to another. But today, every Juan can now fly, thanks to the promo fares of the local LCCs (low cost carriers). Flying has never been this convenient. Sometimes, I even availed some of their promos and I did save time and money!

But there are some drawbacks about it. Here are some of the things that I hate about flying around the country.

The Island That Vanishes: Sanipaan Shoal

Vanishing Island of Samal

Sanipaan Shoal, Island Garden City of Samal, Davao del Norte

This is probably one of my most favorite places in Davao. I fell in love with this island when I first went here last 2008 for a laboratory field work in Botany. Indeed, the island (technically, it's a shoal) vanishes when the tide is high.

Cheap Lanzarote Holidays: Why Book Bargain All-Inclusive Getaways?

Photo credit

Are you pondering over whether to opt for a different board basis to your usual cheap holidays to Lanzarote? Bagging a low cost break doesn't start and end with self catering stints, Lanzarote can be done in luxury too with bargain all inclusive holidays from discounted getaway websites.

Lanzarote is easily one of the most exciting islands in the Canaries. With an electric atmosphere, vibrant resorts and huge stretches of blue flag shorelines, it isn't hard to see why so many Brits choose Lanzarote each year.

So far, so good.

It's been a week since I finally moved out from my comfort zone to pursue my lifelong dream. It actually feels liberating but awkward at the same time. Awkward in a sense that I have been actually doing those things that I normally don't do when I am home!

My Gastronomic Adventure in the Philippines

I am a certified food junkie. Aside from visiting the must-see places as well as discovering the unexplored part of our country, I would always take note of the food that I eat. Food is the most important thing in traveling aside from accommodation. And because Philippines is a very diverse country, embarking on a gastronomic adventure is truly an exciting idea. First time travelers wouldn't know what's in store for them as they fly from one province to another.

The Big Move

Every new beginning comes from some other beginning's end.

When my uncle's colleague told me that CAAP (Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines) will conduct a qualifying exam for the Air Traffic Service training, I didn't have any second thoughts. I always dreamed of becoming one ever since. And for first time readers of my blog, read here on why I took the road less traveled. Last April, I immediately complied all requirements - police clearance, original transcript of records, NSO birth certificate and even took the Civil Service exam the following month.

A few days from now, I am going to leave Davao and stay in Manila for good. Honestly, I do not know what to feel.

Tokyo Tokyo Finally Invades Davao

I love Japanese food. Yes, I do, I really do! In fact, I would crave for Sushi, Sashimi and California Maki whenever I'm stressed. But usually here in Davao, Japanese restaurants are too expensive. But, I shouldn't worry about it now because Tokyo Tokyo, the country's number one Japanese fast food chain is now here in Davao!

The KK Diaries: Epilogue

It has been more than a month since my first out-of-the-country trip. It was definitely one of my best trips to date. How I wish I could stay in Kota Kinabalu for a month or two! I booked my AirAsia flight 11 months prior the flight and paid only a total of Php 2,000 for the whole trip, special thanks to promo fares.

I did not really expect that I'd really enjoy my Kota Kinabalu trip!

Giveaway: Serendipic Photo Contest

According to dictionary.com, serendipity is defined as an aptitude for making desirable discoveries by accident. Well, everyone of us has its own share of serendipitous moments. And some of us are lucky enough to capture it.

Fiesta Dabaw Native Restaurant

And for the final leg of the Sooo Pinoy Davao Food Trip, we went to the food court of Gaisano Mall of Davao and ate at Fiesta Dabaw, a native restaurant that serves native Filipino delicacies.

Tuna Overload at Yellow Fin

Yellow Fin has been around Davao for a long time. I do remember eating their when I was still young. This restaurant serves delicious Filipino cuisine. And for our second to the last stop of the Sooo Pinoy Davao Food Trip leg, we visited their Quimpo Boulevard branch and tried some of the local dishes.

Chippens: Delicious Buffet at the Heart of Davao

Try their Buko Pandan!

After searching some valuable crafts of Mindanao at Aldevinco Shopping Center, satisfy your enormous appetite at Chippens Buffet Restaurant. Chippens is located at Roxas Avenue and it is only a few meters walk from Aldevinco Shopping Center. The restaurant is known for its buffet that offers a variety of dishes from appetizers to main courses and mouth-watering desserts.

Penong's: Barbecues, Unlimited Rice, and Etc.

When in Davao, you will notice that there are lots of barbecue restaurants within the city. I think Davaoeños really love everything that is charcoal grilled. But in Penong's, it's more than chicken and pork barbecues and unlimited rice!

SM Lanang Premier: Davao's Newest Shopping Destination

I am proud to say that I am born and raised here in the City of Davao, a city where peace and harmony exist amidst the developments of the city. Davao City may be a very big metropolis in terms of land area, but one wouldn't feel that it's really big. To answer that minor predicament, SM Prime decided to put up its second SM Mall in Davao, catering the needs and wants of every Davaoeños.

Now, it's about time to bring all those good things here in Davao!

The KK Diaries: Chased by Wild Monitor Lizards

Day 5, Sabah, Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia

Dear Diary,

The last day of my first international vacation. Half past one in the morning, while Brenna and I were watching a gruesome episode of Locked Down, a white man about the same height as me but ten shades fairer entered the lounge. His name was Diego and came all the way from Switzerland. Wow, just... WOW. He just arrived at KK from Sarawak (or was it Sandakan). He was nice and even showed us some photos of orangutans and proboscis monkeys.

Rock Monitor Lizard (Varanus albigularis)

The following morning, Brenna had to leave at around 11 in the morning to catch up her flight back to the Philippines. She wanted to stay longer, but she had no choice. It was also Yancy's birthday and we planned to try parasailing at Manukan Island. It costs around Rm. 70 (~Php 1500) - cheaper compared to Philippines. But lo' and behold! When we arrived at the port, we weren't allowed to ride one due to bad weather. Lord Jeesaaas!

Apparently, a more exciting thing happened to us when we explored Sapi Island.

Harana: Davao's Best Homegrown Restaurant

Kare-Kare with Bagoong - a classic Filipino dish!

Harana would surely ring a bell to Davaoeños, whether the old or the new generation. Harana has been part of every Davaoeño's lives. It is famous for its delicious Mongolian Barbecues, mouthwatering Filipino dishes such as Kare-kare and Binagoongang Baboy. When I was younger, this restaurant is always the number one recommended place for parties, conventions and receptions. Well, until today it continues to become the most sought restaurant in Davao.

For the Love of Chicken and Pizza

Fried Chicken has been my comfort food since I was little. It brings me joy and happiness whenever I take a bite of it. I wouldn't mind eating chicken as my viand for breakfast, lunch and dinner for several days. Mom would hate that though. I guess my love for fried chicken will last for a lifetime. Frankly speaking, as of this writing, I am craving for one again!

Don Juan y Kookel's

And for the last restaurant of our second to the last day of Sooo Pinoy Davao Food Trip, we drove all the way south to try various Filipino dishes at Kookel's in Bangkal. We surely had a lot of surprises when we entered the Don Juan Lounge.

Pansit Madness at Pansititoy

And the Sooo Pinoy Davao Food Trip continues. For merienda, the team went to Ecoland to try out this local restaurant aptly named Pansititoy. From the restaurant's name itself, they serve different kinds of noodles and as well as Batchoy and the all-time favorite of Pinoys, Crispy Pata.

The Visayan Trail

Traveling around the Philippines is indeed challenging. One reason for it is the country's geography. Unlike its Asian neighbors, where provinces and countries are only divided by an imaginary line that we fondly call borders, most provinces in the Philippines are divided by rough seas, stretching beyond what your mind can imagine.

It's quite easy to navigate by land when you are in Luzon and Mindanao. But in Visayas, it's a different story - it is a combination of land, air and sea. Despite the geographical challenge, Visayas is the most diverse island group of the country. The three regions - Western, Central and Eastern Visayas (Region VI, VII and VIII respectively) - have their own share of language, culture and heritage and a myriad of adventures.

The KK Diaries: Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park

Day 4 - Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park

Finally, now on our fourth day, diary!

It was a fine, sunny morning when the Sensi Hostel Team (composed of yours truly, Brenna, Yancy, Cho and the two Spanish duos - Jaime and Alberto) walked all the way to the Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal. We planned to visit three out of five islands of the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park namely Mamutik, Manukan and Sapi.

My Kota Kinabalu experience would not be complete if I totally miss this marine park!

Tales of the Tiny Kitchen

The first time I visited The Rodriguez's Tiny Kitchen last February 2012, it was really tiny. I was a bit surprise when they finally moved to a bigger place near Holiday Spa along F. Torres Street. Well, their new place is not-so tiny anymore as it can accommodate more people. Despite the change, their food has never been different - sumptuous and every penny and calorie is all worth it.

The KK Diaries: UMS and KK's Beautiful Sunset

Still on Day 3, diary. Don't worry, this is the last part.

Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia

One of USM's main buildings.

We swear that we took the right bus and read the instructions on how-to-get-your-ass-at-Aquamarine-museum posted at Sabah's Tourism website thrice before exploring the upper district of Kota Kinabalu. I did not know what happened, but we seemed to have difficulties in locating the Aquamarine Museum. We climb numerous flights of stairs, entered this museum-like building (only to find out that it was the University Chancellor's building... wow sosyal building talaga!), only to find out that the museum was closed on Sundays.

It sucked big time. But hey, we just looked on the brighter side (excuses... excuses...)!

Moody Blues

Summer sun is the best cure for the blues, so it’s little wonder that most of us are feeling a little under the weather at times.

It would be wonderful if we could open our doors and push the children out into a garden full of sunshine and be sure that when we book our UK holiday that we can spend it on the beach. But like most of us are finding out this year, mother nature doesn’t do well at co-operation and you can bet your bottom dollar that if you plan a day at the seaside, she will rock up with a big bag of rain drops to put a dampner on it.

So naturally, the easy solution is to find an affordable break abroad - whether you choose to go down the package route and, for instance, book Thomas Cook holidays, or organise your own flights and accommodation. Whichever you choose, it’s a precious chance to escape to somewhere that is sunny and relaxing, where dear old M.N is too busy building sandcastles and soaking up the rays to bother with big black clouds.

The thought of a summer holiday goes a short way to lifting one’s spirits, and the process of booking is pure therapy. In order to get your full quota it’s important that the location can fit in with as much as possible on your holiday wish list. It’s not too late to book holidays for this year but as most people have already allocated their holiday budget, now’s the time to look ahead to next year’s sun. Why not consider Tunisia holidays, 2013? Or a trip to ancient Egypt? Or an exotic adventure in the Caribbean?

Book now and enjoy that delicious smug feeling during this year’s rainy season, knowing that you will once again see sunshine. These are all fantastic destinations, guaranteeing you warm sunshine, sandy beaches and culture by the suitcase full, leaving you a newly restored and fully revitalised human. What could be more heart warming?

The KK Diaries: The City Mosque

Day 3 - Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia

Still on the third day.

I rarely see mosques, the Muslim's place of worship here in the Philippines. Actually, I have seen one or two in my life but it wasn't really that grand. My hometown, Davao City, despite being the largest and the regional center of Mindanao is dominated by Christians. Only a small portion of the island is dominated by Islam (see also: Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao).

Part of our itinerary was to visit the City Mosque of Kota Kinabalu. A quick bus trip from Wawasan terminal to the Likas District soon had me riding the highways of the city (which by the way offer a scenic view of the West Philippine Sea). I am not a religious person but I do appreciate the architecture of churches and other places of worship. And like any other first time tourists, I got stunned by its grandeur, diary.

Beautiful is actually an understatement.

Eat Unlimited Crabs at Glamour

Craving for crabs? There's a perfect place here in Davao City that would answer your crabby cravings here in Davao!

The KK Diaries: Mistaken Identity and the Sunday Market Madness

Day 3 - Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia

Dear Diary,

I woke up alone inside the room. Everyone's already up. The aircon was still running, making it more difficult to wake up. I was *THIS* close to go back to bed and sleep the entire day. But I tried to muster enough strength to carry my body; my weight triples every morning and I still don't know the science behind it.

Jalan Gaya - closed every Sunday to give way to KK's Sunday Market. Opens from 7AM 'til 1PM.

After splashing my face with icy cold water, I went to the lounge, only to find the caretaker putting some fresh fruits on the table. I sat, grabbed a few oranges, prepared a glass of cold water and turned on the TV. While watching NatGeo Wild, the caretaker poked me and asked in pidgin English, "Want some more? You can drink coffee here."

"Oh, how thoughtful of you. Thank you! But I prefer drinking this," I politely replied.

"Don't be shy, okay? Just help yourself!"

"Alright, thank you!", I chimed.

Why she's talking in English to me, diary? Well, I wasn't sure. Maybe she's Malaysian. Or whatever.

As I went to the water dispenser to refill my drink, I peered at the window and was surprised to see numerous blue tents along the street. And I remembered what Brenna told us yesterday that every Sunday, the whole stretch of Jalan Gaya is closed in order to give way to the Sunday Market.

Dine at Binggoy's Gourmet

After feasting ourselves with Crispy Tadyang, Crispy Pata, Tuna Sisig and Chicken Binakol of Kusina Selera, we drove north to the quaint boutique hotel named Villa Margarita. There, we waited for the next set of Filipino meals prepared by the chefs - The Kusineros.

The KK Diaries: Finding a Home Away from Home

Day 2 - Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia

Dear Diary,

My friends woke me up at around 7AM. Still groggy, I tried my best to open my eyes. Now that I'm on a vacation, I shouldn't waste much time to make the most out of my trip. We ate breakfast at Casuarina Hotel, located a few meters away from our hostel.

Then, we checked out and boarded the 16A bus. For only 1.00 Rm, this is the cheapest ride to downtown Kota Kinabalu. Armed with maps and sheer determination, we explored downtown KK and finally found a place that we can confidently call 'home'.

Where to Eat in Davao: Kusina Selera

I was born and raised in Davao, the biggest, the cleanest and the most organized metropolitan city in the whole Philippines. But despite that, I didn't know that right in the middle of downtown Davao, there's a restaurant that offers delicious Filipino cuisines.

Colors of Davao: Kadayawan Festival 2012

Davao City, bursting with vibrant colors, celebrated the 27th Kadayawan Festival following last year's theme, 10 Tribes, 1 Vibe.

Dubbed as The King of Festivals, Kadayawan Festival is known for its colorful dances and parades which celebrates the natural abundance of the region and serves as a thanksgiving ritual by the locals to "Manama" or the Supreme Being.

It was my second time to experience Kadayawan Festival but I thought that this year's Kadayawan was more exciting and more fun compared last year.

Here are some of my photos I took during the Pamulak sa Dalan event (Floral Float Parade). All photos were taken using my DSLR camera (Canon EOS 1100D) armed with an L-series 70-200 mm telephoto lens. Mind you, the whole equipment were heavy. Add the fact that I need to squeeze my way just to have a better view (this year, I didn't get a media pass). Despite the intense heat of the sun, and the crowd (I am 50 shades darker by the way), everything was worth it.

What a great way to spend my weekend!

The KK Diaries: There's Always A First Time

Dear Diary,

Days before my Kota Kinabalu trip, torrential rain poured over Metro Manila for three weeks already. 3/4 of the nation's capital was submerged underwater and would you believe that the Balintawak Exit of NLEX (North Luzon Expressway) was impassable during that time? Gee, I was worried.

No, not today, rain. NOT TODAY!

Air Asia Malaysia, our flight to Kota Kinabalu

I have prepared for this trip and I cannot allow this monsoon rains to ruin my perfect plans. Heck, it's my first trip abroad and I will do anything just to make this trip possible. Buying a new ticket from Davao to Clark was my alternative plan. I don't really care if it will cost me a LOT, as long as I won't miss my connecting flight to Kota Kinabalu. Yes diary, I was THAT desperate.

Together with Yancy and Brenna, we constantly monitor the satellite feed of the weather and prayed for its improvement the next day. Thank goodness, the gods, demigods and goddesses heard our prayers! The weather improved the following day and the three of us arrived at Clark safe and sound.

But that's not all. The fun is just about to start.

The KK Diaries: Prologue

Aug 17, 2012 / 11.25 PM

Hello guys! 

It is been a while since my last post. I have been away from home for more than a week already. As of this writing, I am currently here in Cagayan de Oro City, processing my medical requirements for my application in CAAP. I know everyone of you hated me for the past few weeks because I keep on posting blog posts about my Sooo Pinoy Davao Food Trip experience, and I am truly sorry for that! I know it is agonizing to browse all those mouthwatering photos especially at wee hours of the morning!

Today let's take a break from the Sooo Pinoy Davao Food Trip post and time to spam my blog about my recent trip in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia.

Brighton Metal - Not Quite Dead Yet

The seaside city of Brighton in East Sussex is a fabulous place for all walks of life, but in particular Brighton has a great heavy metal scene. Check out Travelodge for more information on Brighton hotels, because you’ll need to make a good weekend of it at least. By day, Brighton sports a vast array of shops, from retail outlets to the quirky small shops found in The Lanes. If you haven’t been to Brighton before, check into your comfortable hotel and just start exploring this great seaside resort. You’ll find all sorts in The Lanes, including antique shops, fabulous jewellers, specialist contemporary and designer boutique fashion. You could wander these narrow alleys for hours checking out all the interesting shops here, but no doubt you’ll want to rest your feet in one of the little cafes or restaurants.

The rest of the city is also well worth an exploration. The seafront is a shingle beach but the promenade between the two piers gives an excellent relaxing walk with rolling ocean views. Take a stroll up into town to visit the, a must visit metal and alternative pub when going to Brighton. It’s dark, dingy, serves good beer and cider and plays good music. It also has a spacious beer garden out back to enjoy the weather. What more could you ask for?

Taklobo Restaurant of Jack's Ridge

Finally, the last destination of the third day of Sooo Pinoy Davao Food Trip.

Nestled at the top of Shrine Hills, Jack's Ridge offers a panoramic view of Davao City especially at night. Read to know more reasons why the locals, as well as tourists, spend their time at Jack's Ridge.

Celebrate Kadayawan at the Apo View Hotel

In 2007, the Apo View Hotel celebrated Kadayawan Festival in line with its 60th anniversary of being one of the country’s premier hotel and the second oldest hotel in the whole Philippines. This year, Apo View Hotel gives you more color to the most-awaited festival as it showcases different tribes and the diverse culture of Mindanao.

Seafood Overload at Garden by the Bay

And the third day of Sooo Pinoy Davao Food Trip is not over!

Garden by the Bay's Grilled Pusit

Dream of Para, Para, Paradise

When in Davao, one does not need to travel two to three hours just to reach a decent white sand beach. Paradise Island Resort of the Island Garden City of Samal is just 5 minutes away from the bustling metropolis.

Isla Parilla Restaurant of Waterfront Hotel

After the satisfying 10-way tuna of Marina Tuna, we then took a five-minute drive to Waterfront Hotel. There, we were greeted by Isla Parilla Restaurant's chefs. They were about to demonstrate on how to prepare two of their delicious specialties - Laing Espesyal and Crispy Pata de Paella.

Marina Tuna: Davao's Best Tuna and Seafoods

Aside from the Philippine Eagle and Durian, Tuna is also an important icon of Davao. This particular species of fish is abundant due to the city's close proximity to the tuna capital, General Santos City.

Here in Marina Tuna, they just do not serve grilled panga and grilled tuna belly. They also serve tuna in TEN ways!

Patok na Patok sa Taste ko: Patok sa Manok

The third day of Sooo Pinoy Davao Food Trip got even better, tastier and made our tummies heavier than before. Everyone knows that breakfast is the most important meal because it fuels our brain; makes us energized for the rest of day.

Patok sa Manok was our first destination and I must say that it's one of the perfect ways to jumpstart your day - enjoying the numerous Filipino dishes.

Ten Tribes, One Vibe.

Now there's a valid reason to spend the long weekend here in Davao!

Dubbed as the 'King of Festivals', Kadayawan Festival is celebrated every third week of August. The said festival is an annual thanksgiving celebration for the bountiful blessings that the city received.

Collage of my Kadayawan shots, taken last year.

It will still follow last year's theme: Ten Tribes, One Vibe. The tribes of Ata, Matigsalug, Ovu-Manuvo, Klata-Djangan, Tagabawa, Tausog, Maguindanao, Maranao, Kagan, and Sama are the ethnic groups that comprised the 10 different tribes of Davao.

Traveling Has Never Been This Fun!

I always thought that traveling is a serious thing - you get the chance to experience new culture, to meet new people, to know the history of a local place and to learn the local dialects and languages of a particular locale.

Photo by Stock Exchange

But, there are some moments during your travels that you can't afford to forget because those were just simply hilarious.

Read along as I share some of my travel anecdotes. I hope you enjoy reading it as much as I enjoyed writing it!

Still Can't Get Over with Flyover Ihaw-ihaw!

We finally reached the last stop of the second day of Sooo Pinoy Food Trip Davao - Flyover Ihaw-ihaw. Catchy name, isn't it?