Witnessing the Ethnic Kaamulan Festival in Malaybalay, Bukidnon

The Araguaney tree blooming with yellow leaves behind me provided a vibrant prelude to what I was about to witness. As the marching drums of the twelve participating contingents in the street dance competitions, starts to pound foot stomping beats, I can feel the vibe of Kaamulan Festival becoming more electrifying.

Celebrating the indigenous culture of Bukidnon, the festival highlights the dynamic enactments from the province’s seven ethnic groups; Manobo, Higaonon, Bukidnon, Talaandig, Umayamnon, Matigsalug and the Tigwahanon – into a yearly occurrence showcasing their traditions, rituals and way of life.

Things to do in the UNESCO World Heritage Town of Hoi An, Vietnam

While time travel will always be a leading emblem of science fiction, it doesn’t restrict us from getting a peek and a feel into the world of the yester-centuries. The Ancient town of Hoi-An in Vietnam possesses an olden vibe dating back to the 15th century. Highlighted by its well-preserved structures that have shaped a storied past of a former Southeast Asian trading hub, it has become a major tourism draw in Central Vietnam.  Going back in time doesn’t need to come in the form of a capsule machine, a walk through the old streets of Hoi-An might just do the trick. To make your journey back in time more worthwhile, here are other things to do in the UNESCO World Heritage town of Hoi-An.

Adventure Cometh and Then Some, Beyond the Red Lights of Pattaya

Pattaya is one of those places that radiates an aura of mystique to travelers such as myself - who first learned about this resort city through tales of debauchery, mayhem and smut. It was - as suggested by my preconceived notion – as a place composed of organized chaos of neon lights, lavish adult clubs and endless cabaret shows that last through the morning.

Relishing the Olden Vibe of the Ancient City of Sukhothai

Seven hours after leaving the city of Bangkok at the stroke of midnight, I found myself in the main highway of Old Sukhothai – under the drizzling sky. Throbbing head and all brought on by the intermittent sleep I located my hostel, which to my surprise is housed inside a boutique resort property. “Our Dorm of Happiness – as we call it, is located on the second floor. Come follow me” the receptionist told me. My bunk bed is inside one of the rooms at the old cream colored wooden house fronted by a picturesque courtyard.