My First International Trip: HONG KONG

This year, I decided to be serious on the idea of being scared, but pursuing what it is that scares me anyways. And first on my list was going on my first international trip. I’ve been around my country for the last few years, and though I planned on a holiday abroad, I never get around to it until this year. I imagined it would be very stressful, or expensive or overrated. But these are what I learned and hopefully, they will help you too:

Do’s for your first international trip:

Set your trip objective. We travel for different reasons – pleasure, exploration, self-discovery, business. But whatever it is that you hope to achieve, be clear about it and stick to it. This will give direction to the places, food and people you may want to get in contact with once you reach your destination. This will also influence the cost and/or duration of your trip and many other important decisions you’ll have to make even before booking your flight.

Check airport and immigration rules and requirements. Do you have all the necessary IDs or travel documents for the place you’re going to visit? Are there any special documents you need to secure? How heavy should your luggage be? Do you even need a luggage, or will a backpack do? Can you bring food/drinks while on the airport premises? How do you pack toiletries so you can clear the gates? About how many hours should you check yourself in so you’re considered “on-time” for your flight?

Do you research. I can’t stress this enough. Not just because you need to know the basic greetings but because you got to have a general idea about the place you’re going to. So create a checklist:

1. Weather: what clothes is most appropriate for the activities that you want to do?
2. Usual modes of transport: How do you go from point A to B?
3. Food: which would you try and which would you skip on?
4. Language: do they know your language? Are they able to communicate in English? Can you speak their language?
5. Customs: you never want to rile up the locals when you’re in their territory. Please check what they consider rude and what they consider as acceptable behavior.
6. Currency: do you need to exchange your money for theirs, or is it already acceptable?
7. Help lines: because you’ll never know what may happen.

Bring a map. Install an app, or get one from the airport. It’s important that you have a general idea of how big the place is or how far you are from the location you’re going to. Also, it will save you a lot of hassle and anxiety in case you missed your stop.

Get online access. Oh well, this may not apply to remote and far off holiday places that are totally off the grid. But who will go on those places in their first international trip? Just saying online access is important so you can check most things – maps, reviews, more information. This’ll definitely make your trip safer and more convenient.

Never assume. Be a smart and responsible traveler. Know about the place as much as you can. It’ll be the only way you can maximize the experience while you’re visiting. Just because the place has low crime rate, doesn’t mean there aren’t any bad people around. So be sure to keep yourself safe. Also, only eat at places you deem clean and credible. If possible, never eat something that’s not prepared in front of you.

Enjoy. Take in the scenery Reflect on the differences. Appreciate the local culture. Stop converting costs of every little thing in your head. Keep the judgments to yourself because as of the moment, they’ll only relevant to you. You may only be visiting once, so make each moment count. Make them memorable.

Of course, I never followed these tips to a T. I only realized them in hindsight. And it caused me a lot of stress. My tolerance for anything foreign is extremely low so you can just imagine what this trip did to me. I’m just so glad it turned out to be very wonderful and fulfilling.

WHY HONG KONG?

I read somewhere that this city is a good start for anyone who’s taking their first international trip. And they couldn’t be more correct.

First, Hong Kong prides itself as a modern city – lively commerce, towering skyscrapers, multilingual citizens, and efficient transportation systems. This means you’ll find bits and pieces of the country you came from and you’ll only have a bit of difficulty adjusting to the new environment.

Second, the cost is reasonable for everything – accommodation, food, fares, tours, shopping items. You’ll really get the value of the item you paid for, as long as you’re smart about it.

Lastly and most importantly, it provides the contrast, that difference you may be looking for when you think about exploring a foreign place with a culture other than your own. Hong Kong can give you a glimpse of everything – tradition vs progress, natural vs man-made, ambition vs humility. This city for a lack of better term, is a gateway to the rest of the world.

SO WHAT’S IN HONG KONG?

Ships, ports and container vans. You’ll be greeted by this sight the moment you land. Hong Kong is a natural port. And this exact feature is what makes it an ideal trading post, it’s the key to Hong Kong’s success.

High-rises, lots and lots of ‘em. Whether you’re staying in the city or in their “country” side, you’ll always see these concrete sentinels looking over the cityscape. And as believers of feng shui, the buildings are erected in the most auspicious place as possible. To attract good fortune, buildings must face south (towards the water), in front of the mountains.

Locals believe that water signifies money. Mountains are where the dragons sleep. So to face the source of wealth and be backed by a strong entity would mean very good fortune. That’s why buildings cluster at Victoria Harbor and Stanley Ho’s mansions sit atop the Kowloon Island.

Of course, not everybody in the city can afford to buy a place in such prime locations. Locals can never extend the land, so they have no choice but to build vertically. It’s true for the countryside as well. It’s pretty normal to see buildings with 50 floors. The guide says the usual housing floor area is about 32sqm, for a family with 5 members. The monthly rent on the average is HKD10,000 with government housing 30% less than that. Living cost in the city is pretty high, so some locals voluntarily quit their jobs to qualify for government housing. And then they will just switch jobs after that.

Fast-paced everything. At the bus, the guide told us Hong Kong is not the place you go to for relaxation. You got to be on the go every time. There’s so much to see and so much to do. Restaurants will serve your food in under 3 minutes. You can never be waiting for the train for 5 minutes. The queue at the theme parks is 30 minutes tops. Or maybe we visited on the weekday. But nevertheless, everything, everyone seems to be rushing on. It fills me with longing for time. The city is on the same timezone as my country, but it felt like the city’s clocks are made of something else, something that makes them tick faster.

Clean transports. I never saw anyone eat at trains or in the bus. Some people can drink in the ferry. But this strict rule really has a good effect. The train’s cleanliness is maintained. And you can never offend anyone with the smell of your food.

Affluent market. Resulting from the city being an important trading hub, locals can be very affluent and sport lavish lifestyle. International high end brands for anything have presence in Hong Kong, some of them even have multiple shops. Most people just commute but when you see someone using a personal vehicle, you can bet that it’s someone who’s rich.

City Streets — This one is taken along Hai Phong and Canton Rd. High end cars and clothes shop are pretty common sights.

Hong Kong does not levy import taxes. So you can definitely buy branded items at discounted price, whether they be clothes, bags, shoes or gadgets. Most people visit Hong Kong just to shop. And those who have long layovers take advantage of the time to go to the shopping districts.

Hard working people. Due to high living costs, it’s very easy to be homeless in cities like Hong Kong. I never saw such a hardworking bunch, even people 65 years old and above are working. Mostly I see them on stations and airports, helping/greeting visitors. I reckon it’ll be usual for people to hold down two jobs.

Most older people I see works like this. Minor roles, but necessary. I can’t believe how hardworking they are.

WHICH PLACES TO VISIT?

I went to Hong Kong for vacation, and I hoped it would be a relaxing one. That’s how my brain works around vacation – chill, relaxing time. So you can only imagine my disappointment when I heard what the tour guide said in the bus. But that didn’t mean I had a lousy time.

DISNEYLAND

It’s the happiest place on earth. Enough said.

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No, really. We were just in time for the parade. And my heart keeps doing somersaults in the air the whole time. The music, the colors, the dance, everything… It was as if I was caught in this awesome feel-good movie that could never end. Of course it had to end. But it’s an experience of a lifetime.

VICTORIA HARBOUR

It’s exactly like the images you see when you type Hong Kong on google. Though the sky is overcast and there’s a bit of smog, everything looks pretty serene. The water and the air are as fresh as they can get. It’s a lovely January morning that day, and the sun nor the cold doesn’t hurt much. We walked along the Avenue of Stars, got to trace the hands of celebrities and got sold on overpriced photo of us in front of the harbor. Oh well.

JUMBO FLOATING PALACE AND ABERDEEN PORT

It’s old and it looks so dilapidated. Maybe because we’ve been during daytime. I reckon the night and lights will do wonder for the place. The guide said the food is expensive, though the taste may be lacking. Maybe it’s true.

Also, we toured around the port for small fishing boats. The guide adds that there are people who live in their boats. But I hardly see any people, besides those busy with their nets. In times way back, some people who live in Aberdeen are called Egg Families. They only know fishing, and because it’s the only thing they can sell to have money, the families raise chickens for the eggs. And the eggs they offer to the government. It’s a fast fading lifestyle that could be gone for the next 20 years, the guide said. Due to higher literacy rates, people choose to live and work in the cities. And unless it’s a great family business, the fishermen would go, and leave this life behind.

Aberdeen Port — This is where Hong Kong began. This little fishing village dubbed as Aberdeen, found at the south of Hong Kong.

TIAN TAN BUDDHA AND PO LIN MONASTERY

I’m so glad we went to see the giant buddha. This is actually the most relaxing part of the trip. To get there, one can ride the cable car or take the bus. The cable car is much preferable. It gives you this amazing view of Lantau Island. We cross a bit of the sea, then over the mountains and finally the Buddha comes into view.

It’s a bit of climb to get to where the Buddha sits. I’m really glad we made the trip in January. I can only imagine how hot it could be during the summer months and you have to climb 268 steps. Some people make wishes as they climb, some offers their prayers in the monastery below.

There are 268 steps to reach Tian Tan Buddha. That’s quite a climb, but I think that’s perfect time for reflection and wishes.

I cannot describe in words how I feel about the journey to the Buddha. I’m a Christian, and I got so much respect for every people’s beliefs. When I was making that journey, I felt like a pilgrim onto a path of accomplishing a mission. From a far the Buddha looks so serene. It’s like a beacon, inviting me to come and rest my weariness. It’s not until I’m halfway up the stairs that I realized its eyes aren’t actually closed. They’re open and they seem to ask me, “What do you want? What do you want to say?” And I was humbled, to be in a presence of something figuratively and literally bigger than me. And though there were many people around, it feels that I’m there alone, with this being and the muses around.

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As I make my way down, I couldn’t help but reflect on that encounter. Whether it’s real or imagined, I decided it’s one important moment in my life. And I went 712 miles just to experience it.

SIDE TRIP TO MACAU

Observation Deck Macau Tower — Everyday, do something that reminds you you’re still alive.

Oh wow, this one definitely turned the vacation into a mixed bag for me. I expected the trip to be a bit expensive, but I never expected to be lost in such a small city. Chinese people love gambling. There’re only the horse race track and football games in Hong Kong, so when locals want to gamble, they head to Macau.

Charms and Wishes — If we hang our wishes higher, would they be answered faster?These are charms found in the Observation Deck of Macau Tower. Each color signifies an aspect of life. Pink is for love, green is for health, etc.

The view in the Observation Deck is thrilling, hands down. I couldn’t even get to cross the floor so I can lean over the wall. I’m so afraid of heights. But to see such small clusters of islands, and be amazed of how extravagant and capricious people’s lifestyle can be, is pretty cool. We would’ve wanted to stay in the island a bit more, but we want to catch the last train in Hong Kong. So on our need to immediately go back, we missed our stop and never got to the ferry terminal before it’s almost too late.

TurboJet Ferry — Macau’s just over an hour away from Hong Kong on this ferry. Recently, a bridge between the two cities have been opened. I’ll never know how the two modes compare so don’t ask me.

I remember that I honestly wanted to cry when the city bus kept on coming down the streets that I absolutely didn’t know. There weren’t any English signs. It’s night time. And I was so hungry. But good thing my sister decided that we get off at the last stop. From there, we asked a police officer and they directed us to ride another bus going back to the city that would pass through the ferry terminal. When we came home, I checked Google how deep into the city we’ve come. And I was really relieved to know that we were able to take that bus going back. We were so close to crossing the border to China. Yeah, we were spectacularly lost at that time.

Oh, all’s well that ends well.

PASALUBONG TIP

We were ripped off by the guide more than a couple of times. So please, be smart on your travels. If you want to go for best value, visit Best Mart 360. These are for chocolates and local treats. They have several stores throughout the islands. For souvenirs, you can go to the Ladies Market. Remember, it’s rude to haggle if you don’t have the intention to buy. And the vendors can really be scary. As for myself, I got some ceramics and bookmarks from a Ngong Ping souvenir store.

My first international trip is really a mixed bag, but it made everything more memorable. I’ll make sure to be smarter in my next travels abroad. I look forward to them. I hope what I shared is helpful.

As always, thanks for dropping by!

Review: Kafka on the Shore by Haruki Murakami

It’s been over five years that I’ve last read Kafka on the Shore by Haruki Murakami. I remember then tagging it as coming-of-age – about teenagers who’re lost, confused, angry and irrational. Most of the time, these characters rely on their guts. They always believe the world is out to get them. More often than not, they meet characters who’ll help them shape who they’re going to be at the end of the story. Whether it will be for their better or worse, it’s up to them and the readers to decide.

Kafka on the Shore: The Second Time is the Charm

This story is exciting, kind of like an adventure to the unknown. Both are true in varying degrees for Kafka and Nakata – the lead characters.

It’s a journey that starts from being lost, to finding a safe place and losing it again. The important thing is to keep going until your role is fulfilled.

Rereading the story reminded me of details that I’ve forgotten, meanings I’ve missed and lessons that are very nice to reflect on once again. I used to favor Kafka a lot before, but I’m torn between Oshima and Hoshino right now. These are two peripheral characters who’s influence and help are vital to the lead characters. I also like the contrast between Oshima’s self-acquired knowledge and Hoshino’s willful ignorance.

I didn’t change my mind about this being a coming-of-age story though. But I deeply appreciate Nakata’s role on how the story unfolds. His charm and mystery made the diluted world in the story bearable.

Much importantly, the story’s underlying themes of emptiness, separation, and memories give a good kind of hurt that will make you want to revisit it time and again.

Haruki Murakami

Haruki Murakami is one of most brilliant contemporary writers that we have. Or I don’t know, some identify his works as post-modern. I love his fantastic style, but more importantly, I admire him for how he weaves his themes – powerful, seamless and the uncanny ability to catch you off guard. Like details on a cloth that you’ll only see upon closer inspection or when light hits it at a different angle.

Murakami’s imagined worlds are wonderful to visit sometimes, but a place where you don’t want to stay for long, because more often than not, they’re depressing and confusing.

What makes his stories unique is their knack in blending fantasy and pragmatism, the way he balances the make-believe and real-life worlds. The way he creates a character that speaks to cats but also cooks like any other person puts a vivid contrast in the imagination. I wouldn’t say he’s as great as Tolkien in terms of world-building skills, but I’ll take Murakami’s colors and nuances anytime.

I definitely agree with the author when he says that this story can have different meanings as there are different types of readers out there. Kafka on the Shore is not like some statement novel that opens your eyes to a radical idea, not something that will rally a group of people because they agree on the one, same thing even without further consultation. It has an inward take, a subjective take, a defining characteristic of Japanese literature like In a Grove, where truth or meaning is relevant.

I highly recommend that you read this wonderful story. It’s like an introduction to Murakami’s works. Check out Kafka on the Shore in Amazon.

Just Released

Or if you’ve been a long time fan, Murakami just released another book, Killing Commendatore. Quite sensational from what I’ve heard because of indecency. Oh well, I don’t know how indecent it is. Murakami seems to live for the details. It’s the same relish that he shows when writing about food or sex – basic, primal, and at times, mechanical.

As always, thanks for dropping by!

Featured Photo by Hannah Troupe

Inset by Saúl Venegas

Top 100 Brands in the Philippines 2018

Campaign Asia- Pacific’s Top 1000 Brands has released the top 100 brands in the Philippines this 2018! In collaboration with Nielsen, this research claims to be the most comprehensive in terms of consumer brand perception. The study explores consumers’ attitudes in 14 specific market, with 400 respondents from Philippines. It includes 15 major brand categories and 81 sub-categories.The respondents were given these following questions:

Question 1:

“When you think of the following category, which is the best brand that comes to your mind? By best, we mean the one that you trust the most or the one that has the best reputation in this category.”

Question 2:

“Apart from the best brand that you entered, which brand do you consider to be the second best brand in the category?”

Top 100 Brands in the Philippines in 2018

Philippines Top 100 Brands 2018. Image from Campaign Asia Pacific Page. No copyright infringement intended. — *Philippines Top 100 Brands in 2018. Image from Campaign Asia-Pacific Page. No copyright infringement intended.*

The list is dominated by global Consumer Electronics and Household and Personal Care brands. I’m a little bit surprised that only one brand from the food category made it to the top 10. And with Nike as the top apparel brand to boot. Well, that furthers Filipinos shift to an active and hopefully, healthier lifestyle.

It’s just sad that local brands are way further down. We got BDO and BPI in the 17th and 18th place respectively. And from the Food Category, we got Magnolia at 24th and Lucky Me at the 29th place. Jollibee’s at 41st while it’s rival, foreign brand McDo’s at 55th place. There’s also a dedicated page about the strongest home-grown brands in the Philippines and there they cited Jollibee at the top. A bit confusing when you see the actual rank, to be honest.

Philippines’ page also contains information about demographics, spending behavior, average income disposal, FMCG growth, consumer confidence index, etc.

As per United Nations 2017 Population Prospects there’s about 105 million Filipinos, dominated by 0 -14 years of age which consists 32%. This is followed by Gen Y, or those that are 20 to 34 years old at 25%. It’s important to note though that in terms of direct buying power, you want to bet with Gen Y and Gen X markets (age range: 20 to 49 years old) as they consist 44.7% of the population combined. And this market is what would actually back the demand or the influence on consumption from the younger ones because of their purchasing power.

It’s really nice to know that behind Food and Education, Filipinos are now more into Savings and Investment. And contrary to what many of us believe, only 3.2% of the respondents spend on pleasure travel or vacation. This is much lower than the ones who enjoy dining out at 6%.

Reports are also in for Australia, China, Hong Kong, Japan, and Singapore. And we’re about to see the drill down on the following markets in the next few weeks: India, Indonesia, Korea, Malaysia, New Zealand, Taiwan, Thailand and Vietnam.

I strongly recommend you visit Campaign Asia-Pacific’s 1000 Top Brands because it would also allow you to compare brands per year and by APAC market or category. You can also pit brands against each other. It’s really a marketer’s and advertiser’s haven. Happy exploring!

P.S. Congratulations Samsung! And Apple, keep up! Though what I really want to say is, we Filipinos should love our own products more. It’ll be nice if the top 10 are all home-growns.

P.P.S. Of course, as in any other research, please take the result with a pinch of salt, because if there’s only 400 respondents from the Philippines and there’s already 105M of us, that means, the sample isn’t even 1% of the population, hardly a solid representation of the country.

As always, thanks for dropping by!

I used Canva to create the Featured Image

Successfully Adulting or Not

Adulting v. to do the things an adult is expected to do. This includes holding a job, taking care of the bills, maybe starting a family, going for your dreams, etc. It used to be called growing up. But really, it’s all about getting your life together.

If you’re anything like me, you’ll soon find that it’s not the easiest thing to do. So often have I wished for a ‘Skip Adulting for Today’ button. If I have one though, I doubt it’s still working because I may have broken it by now.

What Helps Me Through Adulting

So much has been said about adulting. But I still find myself looking for an adultier adult, because it can get seriously frustrating sometimes. The following may sound preachy, but what isn’t? So far, they’re pulling me through:

Patience

Man, do I need to be reminded of this time and again. I used to be a firm believer that now is as good as any time. But I learned that knowing the “right time” is also a form of intelligence.

If you’ll be able to wait willingly and hold out with a good attitude, the outcome may surprise you. This doesn’t just apply to timing. It’s also about interacting with people. Like, how you learn to respond with grace even though you’re this close to hitting, punching or stabbing someone.

Or when you’re so excited to get approval from the boss, but the boss isn’t in the best mood to listen. It can also be about enduring the leg work now for all the wisdom and experiences that it will give you further down your career. Patience, my dear, is inevitably tied to delayed gratification. And in most times, you’ll realize that the end gratifies greatly, indeed.

Discipline

Or doing the right thing, at the right way, all the time. It’s about doing the thing that needs to be done, even if you don’t want to do it. Going to work on Mondays is a perfect example.

In some cultures, discipline means creating an order within you. It helps you put first things first and avoid making excuses. That’s why to me, discipline means honoring your commitments, your deadlines, your promises. It’s the ultimate test on following-through.

Determination

The kind that answers the questions: How badly do you want something? How much are you willing to pay (sacrifice) for it? These questions also test the quality of your decision-making. How firm you are in your decision affects how determined you are to accomplish it. I’m far from mastering this determination thing. Because I usually change my mind about everything. As we all know, motivation doesn’t last. But determination helps you persists.

Gratitude

…for everything because being alive is enough reason to feel blessed. There are bad circumstances, sure. But these downsides help us appreciate this one life that we’re given. Failure teaches you lessons. Success teaches you humility. ‘You live, you learn’ as the song goes.

Final Thought:

Nobody can escape this period and it will make up most of our lives. Granted, adulting can really be scary and tough, but hey, I’m with you, we’re still here. We’re going to be okay. Afterall, all of us is still a work in progress.

As always, thanks for dropping by!

All the Bright Places: Thoughts and Reviews

It’s been awhile since I picked up a young adult work of fiction. I was expecting Jennifer Niven’s All the Bright Places to move along the same cheesy story lines. The ones that follows the plot of boy meets girl, boy loses girl, but boy still wins girl at the end.

But no.

It seems nobody wins at the end of this story. And sadly, it may be happening to someone you know right now.

I never expected the book to be about suicide – a topic that has become so prevalent this past years.

Growing up, I know the issue is real. As real as bullying or domestic violence or cancer. I think every one of us has some level of experience with the topics I mentioned. It may only be the names, places or situations that may be different.

The book is a bit too cruel. Imagine having to deal with deaths that took place within roughly a year of each other? How can you even begin to find the sense in learning to lean onto someone and then having that someone taken away forever?

But as painful as the story is, it also teaches you to hope, to reach out and to move on.

All the Bright Places to Hope For

Going someplace new and different doesn’t just change what’s outside. More importantly, it moves something within us. It allows our minds to open up to new perspectives, to increase our appreciation of what we have and long for the possibilities in the future. It develops our depth as a person and the relationship we have with the person whom we experience them with.

Just like how Violet’s and Finch’s project of wandering over Indiana allowed them to explore themselves, too.

All the Bright Places to Reach Out To

As with Dr. Seuss’ poems, we can’t always expect to win every time. There would be moments when we’ll fall and fail. When this happens, it’s so easy to fall in the trap of negative thinking, to feel like you’re lost and worthless. What the book never failed to show is that there are always, always people and groups who are ready to help you out. It may not be something you will immediately like. But know and remember that you’re not alone.

Sometimes, it can be disappointing that the people you expect help from are the same people turning you away. They may be in denial (like Finch’s family) or they may just be ignorant (like Roamer and his friends). But knowing this doesn’t make the pain any less or the confusion any clearer. I think the key is to never stop trying to reach out to anyone who you think may help you. There would always be other friends, other responsible adults, experts and organizations who’d be willing to hear you out.

There are several organizations that Niven listed in her book. Locally, here are some useful links and hotlines you may check out: Manila Lifeline Center and HOPELINE.

All the Bright Places to Move On To

Niven’s characters are about to graduate high school. Most of them have already submitted applications to different Universities in and out of Indiana. I like how Violet decided to finish the project she started with Finch. She may just be hoping for closure but I knew she was able to find more than that – peace and strength to move on. After all, she still has her own mountain to climb.

What I most like about the book is how Violet’s family is always ready to listen and at the end, all the tragedies have made them better and stronger.

Dealing with Death

Of course you never just get over with a loved one’s death. You just get used to it. And in between life and remembrance, we may find solace on the thoughts and memories they have shared with us. All those times we may never take back but may just give us the push to move on-wards with life.

You can get your own copy of Jennifer Niven’s All the Bright Places at National Bookstore or through Amazon.com.

Add to that Dr. Seuss’ Oh, the Places You’ll Go!

As always, thanks for dropping by!

Featured Photo

BATANGAS: YOUR GO-TO PLACE FOR QUICK GETAWAYS

WHY BATANGAS?

Batangas is our family’s go-to place for a quick weekend getaway ever since I can remember. My childhood memories are filled with blue skies and wide horizons, fresh, gusty wind and country rides. Batangas would always be a special place to me because of this and more.

There are a number of attractions on this place, most are family friendly but some can be exciting enough for a weekend getaway with friends or co-workers.

I like Batangas because it’s just two hours away from Manila. You can either take Star Tollway or the Tagaytay route, either of which will give you a pleasant country ride. And there are so many types of public transportation and routes you can choose from so you’ll definitely find one that suits you best.

Also, Batangas is not so rural anymore so everything else is fairly convenient. Lodging and accommodations are decent enough. Not to mention the restaurants you can stop over along the way. They make the best lomi in this part of the country, by the way.

Here are the places that we’ve visited the past years. Hope you can also drop by these amazing places with your family:

LA VIRGINIA RESORT

La Virginia is an 8-ha property full of pools and various structured attractions, all overlooking Taal Volcano. It’s a little bit difficult to get to, considering how many transfers you need to take when you’re commuting. Renting a vehicle would be a very good idea when going to this place. Its popular among the locals so asking for directions should be no problem.

The resort has several sections, each with a unique theme. The one where we stayed in is called Casas de las Flores which features flowers. We stayed at the Orchid, which can house up to 15 to 20 pax. It is also airconditioned and got at least 3 comfort rooms. There are TV, ref and griller. There’s also the Karaoke machine which you can use for an additional fee of P1,000.00.

La Virginia, Bronze Buddha Statue — The serenity of this giant bronze Buddha statue is further emphasize by the lush, green scenery from behind.

La Virginia, Pools and Cottages — The pool over at Casas delas Flores. This place must be so magical for children.

La Virginia, Concrete Hanging Bridge — Though most structures are made of concrete, the resort more than makes it up for the details and paints they put on each of the installation, like this hanging bridge right here.

One other section features a huge Buddha statue, with the green, lush woods as its background. Then there’s a castle and Marvel superheroes. If you’re for something homegrown, there are accommodations designed after Ifugao houses.

La Virginia also has a hotel, an infinity pool and this concrete hanging bridge (if it’s your thing).

It’s a nice place to explore with the family, but be prepared with the steep slopes. They might really get your joints aching after a while.

But with a view this breathtaking, your trip would definitely be worth it.

View from La Virginia Resort, Batangas — Heart-stopping view of Taal. Isn’t it so perfect?

TALI BEACH

How about a staycation on one of ‘em huge townhouses? If you’re prepared to go the miles and hike up those steep slopes and trek down the beach front, then maybe a trip to Tali Beach may be good for you.

The townhouse we rented costs around P40,000.00 but we’re like 50pax. It comes with everything – rooms, kitchen, spacious lawn, and a pool. So you can host a mini party with the family and arrange an island hopping tour the next morning.

The place is really well-kept and strolling along this type of street can really be a joy.

Tali beachfront. — Tali beachfront on a cloudy day.

Tali Beach Resort — Most men from the family tried to jump from this place. But the waters full of tagulabay.

MUNTING BUHANGIN

So we we’re on the lookout for a white sand beach nearby and this is the place we found. And since it’s also in that part of Batangas where roads just have to be so steep and winding, it would really take a skilled driver to get to and from the place. But of course, it’s Batangas – it can never disappoint. Just make sure that you’re up for a bit of a hike.

Accommodation is really good at this place and there are lots of activities you can engage in. The beach looks so nice and peaceful, too. Great place for little children to wade in.

Munting Buhangin Beach Camp, Island Hopping — My sisters having their “One Piece” moment at one of the islands we went to during our visit at Munting Buhangin.

Batangas waters, Munting Buhangin Beach Camp — This is what I love about Batangas waters in fair weather – smooth, calm and crystal.

Island Tour, Munting Buhangin Beach Camp — It’s a family day!

MATABUNGKAY

This place is where everything started. It’s like our very own family pilgrimage – driving back to Matabungkay every two years, spending time, sharing moments and reminiscing with the homies. I can’t remember any other place the whole, as in the whole, family go to whenever we want to hold an impromptu reunion.

My childhood vacations were spent on a balsa in the middle of the sea, eating salted eggs with tomatoes, playing with cousins or just staring out at the blue clear waters. I’m lucky if a little crab would pass by.

We just used to go for a day tour but when the family got bigger, everyone just wanted to stay a little longer, as if more time spent on this place would bring back some of those moments from long ago.

I like the coast here and the mornings especially. You can see something like an atoll when the tide is low. My cousins and I would go the farthest point we can. Sometimes we come home with loads of pebbles and shells. Most little ones would bring with them fish and other slimy things they found on the shore.

So not only the places but the memories that were created on those places made Batangas one fine place for me. It would always be my go-to place for a quick weekend getaway!

As always, thanks for dropping by!

Featured Photo

The Magic and Nostalgia that Are the Vinyl Records

I’ve never listened to a vinyl before. It’s only in old movies or retro-themed films that I get to listen to one. And even then, the audio would sound so smooth and flawless. I never knew how different the music sounds like coming from these records.

I discovered vinyl records aren’t perfect. Often there’d be that static noise in the background. You can even hear them crackle sometimes. They’re the audio equivalent of those silver screen movies – filled with vertical lines at one time or bursting with bright lights the next. They can be distracting but I guess, it’s part of their appeal.

It’s a totally new experience, something that definitely increased my appreciation for this particular medium. It’s not just the kind of music that’s on record, but the quality on which they were produced. Of course, they’re nothing like the audio we have now.

But at some point, the records made me long for a time I never knew. It’s poignant and mysterious and “old”. Old in a very, very good way – just like how memories of summer afternoons in childhood bring nostalgia or how Sunday morning rain can sometimes bring comfort and melancholy.

The Great 78 Project

A simple search on YouTube can give you a taste of vinyl experience. But the effort of Internet Archive with their Great 78 Project would surely cater to your curiosity. They’ve uploaded over 25,000 78s of wide genre. Most date back to 1939. It’s the aim of the project to preserve the cultural value of these records. They were digitized mainly for preservation, research and discovery.

Update: Removed links to Somehwere Over the Rainbow, La Vie En Rose and Spellbound. They aren’t working anymore.

As always, thanks for dropping by!

Featured Photo by Emma Frances Logan

I, Daniel Blake – A Social Movie with a Kafkaesque Take on State Welfare System

With his fist raised in the air, Daniel Blake stood before the graffiti he made on the walls of State Welfare. This protest will be his first offense after being a citizen of good standing for 50 years. And some weeks later, he dies.

A sympathizer raises Daniel Blake's hand as he protest in front of State Welfare. — A sympathizer raises Daniel Blake’s hand as he protests in front of State Welfare. Photo downloaded from I, Daniel Blake official Facebook page. No Copyright infringement intended.

OF STATE WELFARE AND SOCIAL CONTRACTS

In a democratic form of government, there exist the theory of social contract, with which comes reciprocated duties. This means that the sovereign is committed to the good of the individuals who constitute it, and each individual is likewise committed to the good of the whole[1]. Having said these, the individuals gather as one to decide which laws to enact, laws which will then give each person equal rights and privileges. In turn, individuals must perform their duty to the sovereign – obeying laws, paying taxes, etc. This seems to be a very noble ideal. And though Rousseau’s idea can optimally work in a particularly small community, the tenets, if coordinated well, may be applied to an entire state or country.

However, it seems that the system, claimed to have been collectively created and agreed upon, squeezes the breath out of the body it desperately wants to keep alive. The processes imposed are often unnecessary, winding and neglect the urgency of need. This becomes especially frustrating in State/Social Welfare.

Daniel Blake’s story is one that you hear any day of the year. Why, people always get into welfare for some reason or another. But the tedious process of finally benefiting from your right and privilege can sometimes be ridiculous and often, delayed. You can’t help but think that maybe the processes they put in place in Welfare came straight out of a Franz Kafka’s book.

But unlike W.H. Auden’s Unknown Citizen, who chose to just go down and live the life of a conformist, Ken Loach and Paul Laverty’s Daniel Blake refused to surrender his self-respect.

MEET DANIEL BLAKE

Daniel tried to bear with the system but was always told that what he’s done isn’t enough. He was even threatened with sanctions. We’re made to believe that the people at State Welfare work for the poor. But it’s looks like they’re just slaves of the system. ~~Funny when we tell politicians what they’re doing isn’t enough, all we ever receive is a shrug. They even have the nerve to plunder.~~ Those representatives know the steps very well, but they cannot identify with the people they’re supposed to serve. Yes, there are people who lie about their conditions, but not everyone should be punished just because few people are crooked. Also they imposed requirements that not everyone is capable of doing so. Or they include steps that require assistance that they actually failed to put in place.

WHY IT’S WORTHY:

The plot of the film is simple, even predictable to some. But the glaring truth in all those scenes is just so hard to ignore. You can see people in need driven further to destitution because the state which promised to take care of them has now become reluctant, even doubtful. How can people live with dignity in a society that tolerates such system? And yet, we see them in every part of the world. Do we just exist to put each other in miseries?

I’ll go as far to say that I, Daniel Blake, is a powerful film on a pressing social issue that most people just shrug off every day. It shows that we must clamor for improvement so that nobody has to sacrifice unnecessarily. So that we know it’s only right to demand for the sovereign’s part of reciprocated duties. And finally, so that we all can live and die with dignity.

Check the full cast and crew of the film here.

BONUS:

Here’s a video from Ted-Ed on what it really means to be Kafkaesque:

As always, thanks for dropping by!

Reference:

[1]Internet Encyclopedia of Philosophy

Silence – Of Persecuted Christians and their Silent God

Silence is about the dangers and sufferings of early Christians in Japan. It also shows how the local government reacted to this Western religion and the lengths they’d gone in order to break Christian priests. At length, it narrates how these Christian priests have fallen for and from their faith, either through death or great torture. It features their moments of doubt both in themselves and in their God.

The film have stunning landscapes and great photography. Every detail is made to be pleasing to the eyes. Even character deaths are made poignant to a fault. I won’t go on about how visually appealing the film was. Let the technical critics deal with that. I want to talk about how Silence presented Japan and Christianity.

JAPAN AND CHRISTIANITY

Though not mentioned in the film, there could be so many reasons that the Japanese government had to be vigilant of this religion.

The 1600’s is the height of the Age of Exploration. European countries are going out to the New World, to discover new frontiers and of course, establish their claim to these lands. More often disguised as missionary voyages, these trips are actually economic exercises, designed to increase the wealth of their country of origin. At this time, Japan has one of the most advanced societies in the East. They may have seen through the movements of European countries and recognized Christianity as a ploy to invade their land.

Also, Christianity may cause structural strain because of the doctrines it preaches. For the Japanese peasants during the 1600s, Christianity is a most agreeable prospect. In the strict caste system of their society, they’re people who were born to do hard labor. It’s their duty to pay taxes and endure worst living conditions. They were serfs, subject of daimyos who claim to give them protection. Apparently, they didn’t feel secure at all, as they seek solace in the idea of a God who’ll reward them a place in Paradise after they die. While the daimyo’s demands are too high, God only requires faith. While they were raised to believe that not all men were created equal, here’s an idea that all men were created in the likeness of God. It’s a clear choice for this people.

In a worst case scenario, this might even lead to rebellion. Christianity worships Jesus, son of God, whose reign is prophesied to be supreme among all peoples of all nations.

WHAT SILENCE TELLS ME:

Silence shows what these early missionaries lack – a deep understanding of the current culture and customs of the people they wished to convert to Christianity. They failed to understand the workings of Japanese society. They failed to anticipate the interpretation of these doctrines in the Japanese point of view. It seems that the promise of Paradise have become more important than any other Christian teachings.

Japan and Christianity is like oil and water. In fact, even today, only 1% of Japan’s population are Christians. This is a strong proof that even after centuries of crusading for this faith, oriental beliefs and religions still dominate this eastern country. I’m afraid it is what as the film says, Japan is like a swamp. Nothing can grow there (in terms of propagating Christian beliefs). At least, that 1% now enjoys the freedom of religion. This film was made to commemorate and honor the brave men and women of faith who faced persecution.

MOST MEMORABLE PART:

“Before it’s all right to be a Christian. It’s so unfair that I only get to live now [when Christians are being persecuted].”

This is Kijichiro’s lament. I’m not sure how to interpret his presence in Padre Rodrigues’s life. Sometimes, I look at him as temptation personified, and sometimes, I see him as the personification of Hosea’s* wife. He commits sins again and again. Then he repents again and again. And the Lord (thru Padre Rodrigues) pardons his sins again and again. He’s an authentic human being – always prone to committing mistakes, contradicting himself, feeling guilty and wanting to repent.

*If you’re familiar with the Christian Bible, Hosea is a prophet with an unfaithful wife. She commits adultery again and again. But Hosea takes her back every time. Their relationship symbolizes the love that God has with His chosen people (Israel). No matter how many times they’ve sinned, God’s always willing to take them back.

MOST HEARTBREAKING PART:

“It took four days for Mokichi to die.”

In a manner that’s very reminiscent of Jesus’ last moments, Mokichi’s persecution included being tied to a cross until he dies. This cross stood on a rocky coast, facing the ocean. It left him, and two others, exposed to the strong waves and the hot sun. And when his fellow believers died, he begged God to welcome their souls and to get a place ready for them in Paraiso.

Check out the complete cast and characters here.

Credit goes to Teaser-Trailer.com for the featured image on this post.

The 21st Hot Air Balloon Fiesta – A Weekend Of Everything that Flies

Hot air balloons are always fascinating for me. The sheer size of it demands attention. It makes you long for the skies, to be up there, touching the clouds and braving the winds. I heard so many fun tales of people who ride hot air balloons, though I never knew all the technicalities that went behind it. That’s until the 21st Hot Air Balloon Fiesta.

Hot Air Balloon Fiesta Only Happens in February

We can’t have hot air balloons festival anytime that we want. We were told that air and weather conditions are major factors in the success of hot air balloons. Here in the Philippines, the balloon festival happens only in February because it’s the coldest time of the year. This cold temperature is essential in helping the balloons inflate and float in the air. There’s only a short window time that the team can take advantage of so that the balloon can take flight.

We're favored with clear skies and cold morning. All set for the 21st Hot Air Balloon Fiesta. — We’re favored with clear skies and cold morning. All set for the 21st Hot Air Balloon Fiesta.

These two coast guard planes will take the sky divers in the sky. One of them carries the Philippine flag to official begin the festivity. — These two coast guard planes will take the sky divers to the sky. One of them carries the Philippine flag to official begin the festivity.

Filled with Air, Full of Colors

International teams participated in the fiesta. There were groups coming in from France, Switzerland, Germany and Japan. Each of the team first filled the envelopes with cold air. Hot air is then fed to the envelope once it’s had enough of the cold air.

Some of the balloons seen at the 21st Hot Air Balloon Fiesta.

It’s amazing to see the envelopes form into fun shapes and familiar faces. There was an animal, a car, and a cartoon character. But mostly they were of local brands. Each one is colorful though. The group of hot air balloons floating against the clear skies is truly a wonderful sight.

We would have preferred to see more balloons up in the air, but it's only this set and then some that were able to take flight. — We would have preferred to see more balloons up in the air, but it’s only this set and then some that were able to take flight.

Some balloons never made it to the air that day, despite the effort of its crew. The Coca-Cola blimp, though very impressive, just stayed on ground. Same fate with the car and the beagle.

Not Made to Be Enjoyable for All

I’ve been highly involved in similar events. The work of handling around 50,000 patrons, plus coordinating with the sponsors and performers are certainly not to be trifled with. Add to the fact that pretty much everything highly depends on the weather. So kudos to the team for that.

However, as a first time participant, I expected more. The long waiting time at the start of the show is fine. We understand that the teams were waiting for the perfect weather conditions to happen. But the activities that took place after that are of entirely different matter. I’ve heard negative comments about this event before. Now I know what they’re talking about.

Increase Display Screens or Monitors in the Field

The crowd can be as good as 50,000 strong, the event hosts mentioned it a couple of times. The field can take in such amount of people, all right. But to build a little stage at the far end of the field isn’t the best idea. Yeah, I get it, that it must be close to where the divers would land or whatever. But it’s size is so inadequate. That stage is only good for 5000 people.

They may also try to increase visibility of air shows on the ground, maybe through projectors or big screens situated at several places in the field. The crowd may be big, but if they can give their sponsors such large space to display and sell products, surely they can also have the same privilege. Since most activities are air shows, people on ground would have wanted a clearer view of what’s happening. The crowd will appreciate that more.

This twin tandem gave a spectacular air show during the event. — This twin tandem gave a spectacular air show during the event, though.

What of the skydivers doing acrobatics in the air, when you couldn’t see their moves clearly? Where’s the wow factor in that? How do the spectators share that experience? Do you expect people to be happy just by taking photos or videos of another person enjoying himself in the air?

That’s why most people just while away their time flying kites or going to the sponsor booths, instead of going to the stage and actually enjoying the lineup of activities that the host prepared. Some may have even went to other tourist attractions nearby.

Still, organizers may argue that if they really want an awesome experience, they should have paid for the hot air balloon ride. To this, I say, you’re missing the point. What, you think all those people went there because they actually want to ride the balloons? That they can actually pay for that? No, these people want to be entertained with an air show. At least give us that.

Also, can you like have a display of at least 5 air crafts at a time? That’d be miles amazing compared to a single plane, taking up more divers in the air.

Make the Advertisers’ Balloon More Entertaining or Creative

We appreciate the A-380 during the show. But that’s a blatant advertisement. Same as the balloons of local brands. Maybe you can ask your advertisers to be more creative with their balloons, like the one that Coca Cola has. It did not fly, but the impact was there. Everybody saw Coca Cola, even though it’s Pepsi that has a booth on the ground. I got a more favorable brand experience with the soda brand, than with a local media station balloon that looks dirty and ready to retire any minute.

So to the organizers, maybe I’m asking for too much, but you can also ask yourself if you can just give us less. If you can just make good on the hot air balloon display, then please just focus on that. Don’t try to prolong the spectator’s day with activities that will not enrich their experience. It’s so hot out in the field. There were children and old people, too. Yes, the environment is something you can’t control. But you’re not giving the spectator’s any comfort at either.

Also, I know, that after 20 years, you’ve seen this pattern: Parking area full before the hot air balloon activity. Number of cars in the parking area reduced to 30% just after 9am. It’s time you do something about this.

Still, It’s Something to Look Forward To

I came to the event in a public joiners tour. Maybe next year, I’ll go on my own or arranged it with friends with a car. It’s really nice to see those balloons in the air. Check on this website for event updates.

As always, thanks for dropping by!