Journeys Beyond the Pearl of the Orient Seas...

Amazing... 

The Kingdom of Wonder ... 

Truly Asia.... 

My stories and adventures, soon.  

IN PURSUIT OF QUEZON'S FABLED WATERFALLS ...

The sun was blistering hot that day. Summer was at its peak and most people are struggling to keep themselves cool.  If you're in the heart of Quezon Province, the idea of a refreshing swim in a beach or a river is simply far-fetched.  But our local contacts told us to go to this waterfalls hidden in the mountain ranges of Atimonan for a refreshing dip.

Being an adventure-seeker that we are, we followed his suggestion and went out to search this fabled waterfalls, where a golden bell is said to be hidden beneath its depths. After a long, slow travel on a winding road, we finally stopped on this seemingly unnoticeable road sign that says Welcome to Bantayan Waterfalls and Caves.

The simple tarpaulin signage along the road.

My Melancholia in MALAPASCUA

It felt sad and depressing when I left Malapascua Island.  I didn't want to board that boat yet. The sea is so inviting for another swim, for another day of lazing along the beach and reading my book (Life of Pi by Yann Martel) under the comforting trees.  I have only spent 4 days in this enchanting island and it's never enough to satisfy my insatiable curiosity for this sunny, charming paradise. Though one can explore the entire island by foot in one day, I know there are still more to discover and learn beyond its idyllic beauty. 

Bounty Beach 

MANILA: A Closer Look (Part 1)

I find Manila interestingly charming. This may not be the city I want to live in because of its flood-prone and narrow streets, but I still continue to find myself going here at least once a month to experience her alluring vibrancy and chaos. Her rich history and underbelly piques my imagination like no other city in the Philippines.  Her invaluable role in the country's politics, religion, trade, education and culture sets her apart from the rest. 

Despite her grim appearance, she still possess that indelible character that made her an enviable city in the Far East during her golden, pre-WW II age. One only needs to take a walk to explore and re-discover the remnants of her once glorious past.  You'll be surprised how most of them survived, despite utter neglect.