“I could use a tree right now,” I muttered to myself as I felt the sun’s rays piercing my skin in the middle of the beautiful but barren landscape of San Felipe, Zambales. While patches of greens were starting to regrow—in between flowing streams—still, much of the lowlands and the rolling hills appeared denuded. What was once fertile ground as far as the eye could see was changed forever by Mount Pinatubo’s eruption.

Sandwiching our almost week-long Luang Prabang blogger’s trip sponsored by Destination Mekong was a two-day jaunt to a rustic village three hours away. The town of Nong Khiaw is situated in a picturesque countryside on the banks of the Ou River, squeezed by saw-toothed limestone peaks. So where did our host billet us? Of course, in a water's edge property called Nong Kiau Riverside.

Amid the many hidden gems of Manila, the city also provides a strategic location from where a traveler can set out to explore nearby destinations for a day. 'Day trips'—as most would call them—are a popular activity among travelers pressed for time and young professionals seeking to escape the toxicity of work. Surrounded by a number of provinces dotted with scenic countryside, rolling mountains, and fine sandy beaches, you can never run out of day trip locations to choose from. To help you plan your next quick escape from the city, here are some of the best day trips from Manila.

Exploring the city of Manila is like opening a box filled with ukay-ukay (pre-loved) clothes and other objects. It may take you quite a while of digging before you start finding things you actually like. Because this city’s gems aren’t always noticeable at first glance, it takes extra effort to discover Manila’s true allure. From the core city of Manila to the rest of its vast metropolitan area, one can find a myriad of charms hidden in every nook and cranny. By knowing where to search and expanding your zest for discovery, you can easily enjoy Manila with all its rich history, culture, art scene, food, and friendly people.

Nestled in the northern reaches of Vietnam lies a fascinating border town that serves as a gateway between two distinct cultures—Vietnam and China. With its rich history, vibrant markets, and unique blend of traditions, this town offers travelers an unforgettable journey. We delve into the charm of Vietnam's northern frontier and explore the possibilities of a day trip to China, immersing ourselves in the rich cultural tapestry woven by these two neighboring nations.

Perched at the junction of the Mekong, Bassac, and Tonle Sap rivers, Phnom Penh was a colorful tapestry of Khmer and French Indochina colonialism, evident in every aspect of daily life. Legend had it that the city was named after an old lady known as Daun Penh, meaning “Old lady Penh,” with Phnom being the Khmer word for hill. Within Southeast Asia, that was a must-visit city full of color, fascination, and learning.