The Singapore Diaries: First World Impression

Singapore's Chinatown

I have heard so many things about Singapore - the law-abiding citizens, the hefty fines, and its cleanliness. True enough, Singapore has lived with its reputation of being the garden city as the city-state's filled with trees and other flora along the sidewalks, major thoroughfares, and even inside their airport! Although, it was not enough to just listen to my friend's testimonials about the city-state. I have yet to discover and all those things right before my eyes!

I was glad that my trip to Singapore wasn't called off. Aside from the fact that it's my first time to visit this country (well, not anymore!), the Singapore Airshow 2014 was the highlight of this trip, and that made my second out-of-the-country trip memorable.

The Singapore Diaries: Prologue

Like any other travels, going home will always be the hardest part. I still can't get over with my recent trip in Singapore and there's no remedy to it at all! That was exactly how I felt when I came back from my Kota Kinabalu adventure almost two years ago. Anyway, hola! I am finally back. It was a good thing that I came home without paying any hefty fines in Asia's finest city-state, Singapore.

Now, where do I start?

Planespotting in Manila

It's the month of February and that means I am going to celebrate Valentine's with my first love - aviation! Yesterday, after my duty, I went to the PPSG (Philippine Plane Spotter Group) HQ located at Multinational Avenue, Parañaque near the end of NAIA's runway 06 to meet up with my #ProjectSingaporeAirshow2014 friends (gee, what a long sentence). By the way, we're going to Singapore this February 13-16 to attend the Singapore Airshow 2014, plus a little bit of side trips. It's going to be my first time in Singapore and I'm going to make the most out of it! I can no longer contain my excitement!

Now back to the topic. Since last year, I have posted a few entries about my planespotting activities in Davao International Airport (ICAO: RPMD). It sure is an exciting activity most especially if there's a high volume of air traffic. But I admit that it gets boring if (1) there's only one or two arrivals/departures, and; (2) all aircraft are of the same type/model - example, the famous and best-seller Airbus A320-200. It was my first  time to spot in Manila with my DSLR. Without minding the scorching heat of the sun, I went near the perimeter fence and took a lot of photos... as if there's no tomorrow! Heh.

The Big Davao Fun Sale

I am a proud Davaoeño and almost everyone of you here are aware of it. I practically grew up in this sprawling metropolis and I have witnessed its growth since then. Back when I was still a kid, the only shopping destinations I knew were JS Gaisano Ilustre, Victoria Plaza Mall, and Gaisano Mall. There were no SM or Ayala Malls that time. As years went by, the population increased and businesses and investments flourished. To make the long story short, several establishments sprouted like mushrooms in order to address the demands of the people.

With a total population of 2 million, Davao has grown big and is preparing for something bigger this March and April 2014. Brace yourselves, guys. The Big Davao Fun Sale is coming to town!

Simple Tips For Solo Travel

There are many benefits to traveling alone. You can learn a lot about yourself and get some great experiences and memories. According to Travel and Leisure, the change of environment can help to clear your head and may be the perfect “dose of momentum” needed to help you deal with any challenges or changes in your life.

Traveling provides the opportunity to meet people from all walks of life, often with different backgrounds, yet similar struggles, providing a unique perspective on what is truly important. Once you’ve decided to make travel a priority, how can you make it a reality?

Of Living and Working In Metro Manila

Makati City, Philippines

I used to wake up at five in the morning, braved the running, cold water from the shower and occasionally fought indolence. There was no time for breakfast because I have to leave the house at around quarter to six to catch up the early ride to my work station. A carton of milk and a bite of biscuit was already enough, or so I thought. And as always, the 6AM traffic jam is always unbearable most especially on weekdays. It seemed like people magically come out of nowhere and instantly fill the jeeps, taxis, and buses. And by the time I finish my work, I'd go home and experience the same stress ALL OVER AGAIN.

That's how I'd like to describe my life in Metro Manila and I didn't expect that I'd survive that way of life for almost two years!

The Albert Dock: Top Reasons to Visit

As one of the most iconic areas in the whole of England, the Albert Dock certainly doesn’t fall short when it comes to reasons to visit. If you are planning a trip to Liverpool at some point over the coming months, you’d be foolish not to stop by this incredible heritage centre that occupies 1.25million sq. feet of space, which includes various entertainment attractions, restaurants and bars to keep you occupied from the morning, right through until the evening. Take a look at the Liverpool Travelodge hotels so that you can base yourself in the heart of the city, and, if you need some reasons to visit, read on!

Random Shots: Plaridel Airport

Upon learning that I'm going to be permanently assigned in Tacloban Tower/Approach Control facility, I together with my five other classmates who were also assigned to different provinces of the Philippines such as Kalibo, Busuanga, Subic, and Tuguegarao, will temporarily stay in Plaridel Tower. We still have to wait for our travel orders and some important documents before leaving Manila.

It was also an opportunity for me and my favorite toy (ehem, Canon EOS 1100D, we meet again!) to bond here in Plaridel. I have almost abandoned it during my training last year and my parents seldom used it.

Well, it feels so great to be reunited again with my favorite toy in the world!