A Bolder Great Outdoors at Valugan Boulder Beach | Basco, Batanes

Marky Ramone Go December 04, 2020

Scattered on the shoreline of Valugan Boulder Beach are bigger and bolder version of the sedimentary rocks found in Mabua Pebble Beach in Surigao City. In lieu of powdery sands, these large stones spewed by the ancient-time eruptions of Mount Iraya spreads on the coast of this tiny part of Basco,...

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Stop and Smell the Flowers at Northern Blossom Farm | Atok, Benguet

Marky Ramone Go November 28, 2020

On a normal day I would be displeased dragging my body out of bed at 4 am especially after sleeping soundly in the Manor at Camp John Hay. Not this particular morning though. The reason being the destination we’re going would give me an opportunity to literally and figuratively pause and smell...

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Find Yourself in the Cordilleras: The Farming Communities of Benguet and Mountain Province

Marky Ramone Go November 23, 2020

Home to a magnificent set of picturesque highland countryside, the region of the Cordillera features an abundance of wonders. From its cool weather all year long to its majestic set of nature, fascinating culture and mouth-watering local cuisine, an all too familiar feature of the region is gaining...

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Where to stay in Baguio | The Manor at Camp John Hay

Marky Ramone Go November 14, 2020

Fresh from binge watching “The Haunting of Bly Manor” a week prior, its understandable why I initially likened the feel of the Manor Hotel to the haunted series’ mansion. Take out the strange ghostly apparition and you’ll see a charming property laden with fancy landscaping and fascinating architectural...

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Ancient Cham Ruins at My Son Sanctuary | Vietnam

Marky Ramone Go November 08, 2020

Waking up to a rainy and foggy morning had me entertaining the idea of staying in until lunch curled up on my bed. Appealing the thought may be, the chance to see another UNESCO World Heritage Site reigned over and proved to be enough of a motivation to make me stand up, stretch my hands...

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Sun Dialing the Skies at Jantar Mantar in Jaipur | India

Marky Ramone Go October 25, 2020

Situated within the old city of Jaipur near the City Palace and Hawa Mahal is the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Jantar Mantar. Named after the words "yantra", which in Sanskrit means "instrument", and "mantrana" meaning "to calculate", the Jantar Mantar is an equinoctial sundial that measures...

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A Travel Guide to Calayan Island in Northern Philippines

Marky Ramone Go October 20, 2020

Part of the isolated cluster of Babuyanes Islands, this offbeat Island boasts of a bounteous set of rugged nature. Despite living in an archipelago boasting some of the finest beaches and islands in the world, I still find myself dropping my jaw at a sight of a marvelous island setting....

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Why Help Our Local Farmers?

Marky Ramone Go October 07, 2020

It isn’t a question of “Why?” anymore. Rather, “How?” as in how we can help our farmers more? should be the fitting query. Fortunately, a long overdue response to the plight of our farmers is now taking shape. Thanks to small entrepreneurs like the Local Goodness PH, local produce from...

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The Chiseled Wall and Gushing Curtain of Pongour Waterfall | Da Lat, Vietnam

Marky Ramone Go September 21, 2020

As I was walking around downtown Da Lat, I picked up a flyer about an Easy Rider tour taking travelers on a motorcycle exploration of the countryside. I’m not one to easily shell money on tour packages, but I figured I can easily sightsee the outskirts of Da Lat as a passenger on the back of a...

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Where to Stay in Boracay: Azalea Hotels and Residences | Aklan

Marky Ramone Go September 09, 2020

As a frequent guest of Azalea’s Baguio property, I already have an inkling of what to expect at their Boracay location. Still, upon our arrival, I was taken aback by the niceties of the layout that blends perfectly with the vibe of the island. The wide entrance highlighted by the globe fountain...

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Beautiful Lakes in the Philippines Perfect for Nature and Chill

Marky Ramone Go September 04, 2020

“Every lake belongs to the quietness desired by the swans”, poet Munia Khan wrote. Her description mirrors what we collectively sense about this body of water existing under the shadows of big-swell oceans and streaming rivers. Lakes dishes a different vibe far from the seas we’ve accustomed to...

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The Local Goodness PH: Bringing Fresh, Local Produce Straight to your Table

Marky Ramone Go September 01, 2020

Technology has linked the divide between manufacturers, food producers and consumers by mere clicks of a button. The quick expanding economics of delivery has made it possible for consumers to purchase goods expediently—a convenience highlighted more during this pandemic. Nanay Teresa and...

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Travel Bloggers as Influencers of Responsible Traveling?

Marky Ramone Go August 20, 2020

The word “influencer” has become a trendy word passed around like a bottle of beer in the midst of an Oktoberfest revelry. Young people are dreaming of becoming one thus replacing childhood ambitions of becoming doctors, pilots, scientists and the likes. One can vouch for the emergence of the...

Places to see in Mumbai | India

Marky Ramone Go August 09, 2020

Previously known as Bombay, Mumbai—aside from being the country's most populous city—is India's center of financial and commercial activities. Founded on an ancient settlement, its name was derived from the local goddess Mumba, a type of Parvati, the consort of Shiva and one of the main deities...

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Entering and Roofing on a Skyscraper in Bangkok

Marky Ramone Go August 07, 2020

After our friends from the Philippine Airlines, Tourism Authority of Thailand and fellow travel bloggers / vloggers departed for Manila, us three: myself, Karla and Coleen extended our stay for a few more days. Doing so, we got to experience more of the city including seeing it above the roof...

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Busig-On Festival: A Retelling of an Epic Bicolano Tale | Camarines Norte

Marky Ramone Go July 24, 2020

As a spectator many times over of numerous Philippine festivals in the past, I still overflow with enthusiasm each time I witness a new one. After experiencing the Ati-Atihan three times and the Sinulog twice already, I’ve had more than enough dose of fun from those twin-festivals honoring the...

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A Purposeful Trek to the Sacred Bud Bongao Mountain | Tawi-Tawi

Marky Ramone Go July 19, 2020

I remember being envious of my then-girlfriend years ago, when she went on a solo backpacking to Tawi-Tawi and hiked the Bud Bongao. Not only is the mountain located in the southernmost province of the Philippines, it is also considered as a sacred peak. Two preachers mentored by Karim ul-Makhdum–the...

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Beaches in the Philippines Perfect for Social Distancing

Marky Ramone Go July 14, 2020

The future of traveling is facing uncertainties brought on by the “new normal” or as aptly put: the "temporary abnormal", until a vaccine for Covid-19 is discovered. Until then, expect travel to become heavily reliant on precautionary measures such as social distancing. Crowded tourist destinations...

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Travel Lokal in the ‘New Normal’

Marky Ramone Go July 12, 2020

Despite more than two months of community quarantine and minimal venturing into the outside world—mostly on supply runs—majority of us are fighting cabin fever humoring our predicament and making the most of our downtime. In our minds, we are still living out our wanderlust through reading books,...

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Afternoon Ramble at the Grassy Knoll of Racuh a Payaman (Marlboro Country) | Batanes

Marky Ramone Go June 25, 2020

Blame western pop culture pandering outsiders for coining a needless also-known-as name of this jaw-dropping place in Batanes. Racuh a Payaman, as the locals refer to it, sounds more faithful to its appearance; of rolling hills showcasing the wealth of nature. It takes a while before one's...

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Places to See in Jaipur: The Pink City | India

Marky Ramone Go June 10, 2020

As the capital of the Indian state of Rajasthan, Jaipur is one of India's most popular cities among tourists. Part of the so-called "Golden Triangle" with New Delhi and Agra, travelers come to Jaipur to experience a city teeming with palaces, temples, magnificent forts, colorful bazaars, and...

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Food-tripping in Taipei’s Raohe Street Night Market | Taiwan

Marky Ramone Go June 08, 2020

Hearing about Taipei's street food scene goes way back to my mom's solo trip to Taiwan in the late 1960's. Although my mom isn't adventurous when it comes to food, she would later tell me when I started traveling that I better try as much local food when I get the chance. Indeed, I did just that...

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Dose of Art and Architecture at Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum | Japan

Marky Ramone Go June 01, 2020

Rambling mindlessly around Tokyo to random directions took me to Ueno Park where I stumbled upon an interesting looking brick-faced building. Upon closer inspection, I learned that it is the Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum. Despite my novice knowledge in art, I welcomed the serendipitous chance...

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

Marky Ramone Go May 26, 2020

The heritage town of Hoi-An in Vietnam possess 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...

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Lakbay Norte 8 Goes to Pamintuan Mansion in Angeles | Pampanga

Marky Ramone Go May 19, 2020

The last several years has seen the city of Angeles in Pampanga shred its red-light reputation by showcasing its rich culinary culture and heritage. The result is a newfound interest by tourists to explore many of its nook and crannies to satisfy not only the appetite for food but also of historical...

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Admiring the Fine Architecture of the Chhatris of Orchha | India

Marky Ramone Go May 05, 2020

I was roused from my sleep as soon as I feel our Mini-bus rolling into a bumpy off-road trail. I opened my eyes into a view of the Betwa River and its murky waters. From the corner of my eye I catch a glimpse of a towering structures with arresting looking tips. Our guide then hollered and pointed...

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Why Antique Province is an Underrated Tourist Destination?

Marky Ramone Go May 01, 2020

Located in the beautiful island of Panay, the province of Antique tends to get overlooked by tourists heading to Iloilo City down south, to Caticlan in Boracay up north and to Gigantes Island in the East. Thanks to some travelers who wind up in Antique, a word-of-mouth now spreads raving how...

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Save a Prayer at Sigiriya Rock | Sri Lanka

Marky Ramone Go April 25, 2020

Despite missing out on Duran Duran's peak of popularity, their music videos still left a valuable mark in my consciousness. One of it was their song "Save a Prayer". Shot on location in Sri Lanka, it features intoxicating scenes of temples, golden beaches and ancient ruins. One particular part...

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The Mesmerizing Architecture of Taj-ul-Masajid Mosque | Bhopal, India

Marky Ramone Go April 18, 2020

I was feeling benumbed when I stared out the window of the bus and saw the sky reddened with strokes of sunrise. “Dawning of a new day” I told myself and instantly, burst of excitement shot up my body as this meant a new opportunity to explore. It was the first morning of the Madhya Pradesh Travel...

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Traveling with a Disability: 5 Tips for a Smoother Trip

Marky Ramone Go April 16, 2020

Having a disability makes it a little more difficult to get away. It’s necessary to plan more and cater to your specific needs (every disability is different) to make the trip a smoother one. ...

A Walk Along the Streets of Tokyo (part two)

Marky Ramone Go April 09, 2020

After spending the first couple of days under the mercy of a gloomy sky, the sun finally appeared in all its shining glory on the third day. The bright daylight coupled with the wind of the autumn season made for a perfect brisk walking condition—and walked I did—for miles and miles over sidewalks...

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Pench Tree Lodge: A Quaint Den for Nature Lovers | India

Marky Ramone Go April 08, 2020

It took me almost a day of traveling—including a long layover in Kuala Lumpur—before I landed at Nagpur Airport from Mumbai. Upon arrival, I immediately rendezvoused with my friend Karla at her hotel. Wasting no time, me met our driver from Pench who was already waiting in the lobby to drive...

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Things to do in the Sacred Town of Pushkar | India

Marky Ramone Go March 22, 2020

Pushkar is a small town near Ajmer in the desert state of Rajasthan. Daily life and other activities here—including religious ceremonies and rituals—centers on Pushkar Lake, a sacred Hindu Site. Surrounding the lake are more than 50 Ghats where Pilgrims bathe and the nightly aarti are held. Narrow...

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Things to Do in Rishikesh, India: The Yoga Capital of the World

Marky Ramone Go March 20, 2020

Rishikesh, also known as the "Gateway to the Himalayas" and the "Yoga Capital of the World," is one of Hindus' holiest places. It is a pilgrimage site dotted with centuries-old temples. The River Ganges, which is considered sacred in India, begins to flow in the state of Uttarakhand, where Rishikesh...

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A Javelin’s Throw Away from My Hostel, Old Batavia (Kota Tua Jakarta) | Indonesia

Marky Ramone Go March 16, 2020

Arriving from Bandung, I headed straight to Wonderloft Hostel where I reserved a bunk bed for one night before flying back home to Manila. I originally planned on catching up sleep but when I learned from the receptionist that the hostel is just a few steps away from the historic Kota Tua Jakarta,...

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Travel Books to Ignite Your Wanderlust

Marky Ramone Go March 12, 2020

Describing the abundant advantages of travel, Saint Augustine was quoted in John Feltham’s English Enchiridion (1799) as saying “the world is a great book, and none study this book so much as a traveler. They that never stir from their home read only one page of this book”—an evocative passage...

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Covid-19 Pandemic Volunteer Outreach Groups You Can Support

Marky Ramone Go March 01, 2020

Did you know that staying at home during this Covid-19 pandemic is one of the best way to fight the virus? Healthcare workers refer to people staying at home as “our wartime air and artillery support. The more people who stay at home, the more chances we can contain and fight the virus”. Stopping...

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Up and Down the Ancient Step Well of Agrasen Ki Baoli | Delhi, India

Marky Ramone Go February 20, 2020

Not far from the frenetic streets surrounding Connaught Place in Delhi, an ancient subterranean marvel possessing a fascinating history remains in an almost Zen-like condition. For the believers of mystical tales and legends, this is also where strange occurrences happen and ghostly demons plot...

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Capsule Transit KLIA2 | A Place to Stay Kuala Lumpur International Airport T2

Marky Ramone Go February 17, 2020

Slept on an airport floor. Been there, done that. During my previous red-eye flights to KL, I remember dozing off in several carpeted areas of Kuala Lumpur International Airport T2 as I await my connecting flight the next day — a few times to India and another one to Sri Lanka. However, on my...

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Woven PH: Weaving Change in the Lives of Women Artisans of Basey, Samar

Marky Ramone Go February 10, 2020

I first came to learn about the banig weavers of Basey, Samar many moons ago when on a pre-Yolanda morning, I explored the entirety of San Juanico Bridge on foot. I arrived in Samar with no destination in mind until a local I encountered pointed me to a fascinating place. “You can go to Basey,...

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Lakbay Norte 8: Bonfire Bonding, Charcuterie Feasting and Glamping at El Kabayo | Pampanga

Marky Ramone Go February 08, 2020

During the first night of our #LakbayNorte8 in Pampanga, we were taken to a lawn covered ground surrounded by towering trees in Clark, Pampanga. “We’re going to go glamping” our host told us travel writers and vloggers as we got out of our chartered bus. Surveying the scene, I immediately saw...

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High-rise Observation and DTF in Taipei 101

Marky Ramone Go February 03, 2020

I mean DTF as in ‘Din Tai Fung’ It may have feel like eons ago when Taipei 101 stood as the tallest skyscraper in the world when it first opened in 2004. Ten taller buildings later—led by Dubai’s Burj Khalifa—Taiwan’s tower of power, remains as an enigma of an architectural wonder lording...

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5 Ways to Spend More Time in Nature at Home and Abroad

Marky Ramone Go February 01, 2020

Being outdoors has indisputable benefits. Improvements in mood and mental health, as well as healthy doses of vitamin D, are just a few positives that you can gain from spending time in nature. Unfortunately, many of us lead hectic schedules, so if you are working long hours at the office...

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