After getting a glimpse of the province last year when I visited Ticao Island for a couple of days, I immediately regarded Masbate as vastly underrated despite its central geographical location as gateway to Luzon and Visayas. That brief tryst had me making a vow of returning soon. As good fortunes had it, I was able to go back recently for a more extensive journey that took me to the mainland of Masbate, Burias Island and at Ticao once again.

Animasola Island is formed like a fortress with a triangular sandbar

When discussing Philippine Festivals, several traditional revelries come to mind. These include the lively and energetic Sinulog in Cebu, the primal and rhythmic Dinagyang in Iloilo, the captivating drumming beats of Ati-Atihan in Kalibo, the vibrancy of Masskara in Bacolod, the flowery appeal of Panagbenga in Baguio, the cultural allure of Zamboanga's Hermoso, and the equally joyous celebration of Kadayawan in Davao, and the list goes on. However, upon further exploration, one can easily discover numerous jovial celebrations in smaller cities and even towns throughout the Philippine archipelago.

8 Contingents performed for the street dance competition

For over a decade, Epson, a global leader in innovative and sustainable technology solutions, has been organizing an annual thanksgiving gathering with members of the media — particularly those in the tech beat. This year, the 14th season of the brand’s Fusion event took place on Lagen Island in El Nido, Palawan.

This article first appeared on BusinessMirror

It has been over a decade since my ex-girlfriend, a friend, and I embarked on a memorable long weekend castaway trip to Calaguas Islands’ Mahabang Buhangin. During that time, the island was known only to avid backpackers. I vividly recall the confused expression on the fisherman's face when we approached him in the town of Paracale and shared our plan to journey to the island.

Why so pretty?

The 11th Regional Travel Fair held this year in Cebu has put to rest any doubts about the current state of tourism in the country. It surpassed pre-pandemic sales, indicating a strong recovery in the travel sector.  The event lasted for three days, from July 21-23, 2023, and was held at SM Seaside Cebu City. During this time, more than 70 exhibitors, including travel agencies, hospitality brands, provincial tourism offices, and attendees seeking affordable and high-quality holiday packages and other tourism-related services, generated a total of 110 million pesos in actual and negotiated sales.

As I pace the rhythm of my steps, having stumbled into a serene trail that ultimately led me to a breathtaking panorama of the sun-kissed shores adorning the island’s eastern flank, my attention is abruptly arrested by a signpost bearing the inscription "Baluarte (watchtower) 250 meters."

View of the island’s eastern side from a hiking trail leading to the watchtower

It’s about time that you reward your hard work by going on a nature escape with your loved ones at some posh hideaway that ticks all the boxes for a leisurely getaway. Get up close and personal with Mother Nature by communing with the picturesque Lake Lumot and engaging on a variety of water activities during the day, then embrace quaintness beneath the stars before capping the night with a soothing massage and a rejuvenating Kawa hot bath come. Exciting activities and moments of tranquilly abound in this outdoor oasis, which provides excellent value for every peso spent.

This article first appeared on Spot PH

I concur with Scarlet Letter author Nathaniel Hawthorne when he wrote, "Mountains are Earth's undecaying monuments." As proven by my travel recollections, images of the highlands usually conjure an impression of pristine time and wonder. It's as though the mountains were the first to rise from the sea as the Earth gradually transformed into a habitable world. 

Nature's work of art indeed

Although I've visited Intramuros multiple times — excluding the time I was baptized at the Manila Cathedral — I've never gone on a thorough loop exploring its every nook and cranny. Once, I biked to Papakape, an artisan coffee shop inside Fort Santiago, Another time, I indulged in the flavors of several spirits and whiskey at the Destileria Limtuaco Museum, while the other times, it was on a date to Museo de Intramuros and attending a friend’s wedding at San Agustin Church. I’ve never really explored the whole Intramuros like a curious tourist before.

Admiring the thick walls of Baluarte De San Diego in Intramuros

Though I may have been too young to fully comprehend the Doña Paz tragedy at the time, subsequent news stories about it left an indelible impression on me. I grew up rationalizing that sea travel is a perilous undertaking — particularly in a country where antiquated vessels are commonplace.

2GO MV Masagana

I have this image I play in my mind over and over when I think of Kalinga. Apo Whang Od applying a batok (hand-tapping) traditional tattoo on my arm while I regale at the presence of a Dangal ng Haraya awardee. That is how I envision my first visit to the province of Kalinga would be.

The street dance competition started around 9am and was done by 11pm

Having no idea of the place we’re heading to beforehand, the scenery of rolling mountain ranges rising parallel to the mighty Chico River, and expansive farm fields gave me hints of what to expect.

A drone's lens view of Naneng Heritage Village

Even before the two dogs moonlighting as our unofficial hiking guides plodding the muddy trail, paused, and looked back at me, I already figured out what they wanted to tell. Surely if they could talk, I'd hear them tell me, "here we up, look up." Taking cue from their excited body language, I directed my eyes upwards. A massive wall covering the length of my vision revealed an unimpeded view of Asik-Asik Falls.

Soaking the view before taking a dip

Through the years, I've hung out with a handful of artistic souls, most of whom were around my age or were even younger. Although one time, I’ve caught a glimpse of Kidlat Tahimik at his enchanting Ili Likha Artist Village, which is where gastronomy intertwines with awe-inspiring art installations in Baguio City, as he sat at a neighboring table.

Maestro Nune seems pleased in seeing us visit him

I first heard of the creations of BidiBidi when I was given an embroidered face mask featuring a beautiful portrait of a woman on one side and a woven pattern on the other. If there's one good thing to come out of the pandemic, it’s the use of fashionable face masks, and the one created by BidiBidi tops all I've worn.

One of the women weavers in Buhi showing us a sample work of hers

Now that the world is even more connected than ever before, more Filipino entrepreneurs and startup owners have embraced the opportunity to do business beyond local borders. The flexibility that comes with owning a contemporary business also makes it easy for an entrepreneur to travel while attending to their operations. Travel also offers exciting possibilities for growth and networking and may even yield the possibility of expanding the business globally in the near future.

Grow your finances like a mangrove forest does.

Denver, the capital of Colorado, is a city that effortlessly blends urban sophistication with outdoor adventure. Known as the 'Mile High City' due to its location atop a mountain range, Denver offers a unique blend of world-class museums, first-rate breweries, historical landmarks, and an array of outdoor activities. This article explores the charm of Denver and why it is an adventurer's perfect getaway.

If you have a passion for gastronomy and are eager to embark on a culinary adventure like no other, then South Korea should be at the top of your travel list. Bursting with a vibrant food scene, this East Asian gem offers a range of delicious dishes that will tantalise your taste buds and leave you craving more. So, let’s get started with this food lover’s guide to South Korea’s culinary delights.

Photo Credit: Culture Trip

Grenada, a small island nation in the Eastern Caribbean, is a hidden gem known for its lush mountains, beautiful beaches, and rich culture. Although it is a thriving tourist destination, Grenada is also becoming a favored choice among investors worldwide.

One of the key attractions for foreign investors is Grenada's Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program. This program offers an attractive pathway for global entrepreneurs and high-net-worth individuals to acquire a second citizenship.

Tourists who go on vacation abroad usually have different agendas in mind—some are there to experience nature, some are there to get immersed in the culture, and some come along for the shopping. Indeed, for many passionate Filipino shopaholics and fashionistas, shopping abroad is all the adventure they need. It’s a chance to find rare items and indulge in designer digs that may be too expensive back home.