#Philippine Tourism

[thewanderingfeetandmind]

Where to Find the South Sea Pearl in Manila

One of the mindfulness exercises that I do whenever I visit our youngest sister’s house in Malate is seaside walking along Roxas Boulevard. I also intend to conclude it with the same activity on Mall of Asia’s SM by the Bay. The latter is still a part of the boulevard stretch and is a relatively new spot to me, visit frequency wise. Setting foot on the esplanade again of this part of the…

[carlocarrasco]

Filinvest Hospitality Corp. makes big bet on Philippine tourism

Filinvest Hospitality Corp. (FHC) announced that it is betting big on Philippine tourism with its newest move to add a few thousand more new rooms over the next five years to accommodate tourists, according to a BusinessWorld news report. To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the BusinessWorld news report. Some parts in boldface… GOTIANUN-LED Filinvest Hospitality Corp.…

[robpinzon]

World Travel Fair 2023: Dates and Venues

[breathtakingdestinations]

Malcapuya Island - Palawan - Philippines (by . Ray in Manila)

[vintagepromotions]

Northwest Orient Airlines travel poster for the Philippines (c. 1950).

[twelve-12-xii]

i recently visited the Philippines! here are some of the photos i took, id add more but most of my photos are on my camera and i still need to transfer them over ^^'

[filipeanut]

"Plenty of invisible work goes into keeping the crystal-clear waters of Kayangan Lake in Coron, Palawan, ever pristine and inviting."

[hotnunswithguns]

Shrine of Christ of the Divine Mercy – Cagayan de Oro, Philippines. Source:

[budotsmediaph]

Budots Media working on rescuing brand of the Philippines, Department of Tourism's slogan 'Love Philippines' introduced this year in July by the secretary Miss Garcia-Frasco. Logo has been met with warm welcom, unline cooresponding video by DDB agency, that charged DOT (Department of Tourism) 50 million PHP for development of identity and ads.

The animated vector logo for the "Love Philippines" 2023 campaign is a vibrant representation of the country's identity and attractions. It features the four-letter word "LOVE" in bold, with each letter incorporating three main colors: green, red, and blue. These colors likely symbolize the Philippine flag and its rich cultural and natural heritage.

Embedded within the logo are square icons that depict the most popular sights and activities in the Philippines. These icons include fish and corals, representing the country's abundant marine life; mangoes, highlighting one of the nation's favorite fruits; lush greens, indicating the Philippines' verdant landscapes; wind turbines, showcasing the country's efforts towards sustainable energy; budol fights, a nod to local traditions and festivities; sinulog masks, symbolizing the famous Sinulog Festival; and old churches, reflecting the country's historical and religious heritage.

This logo design encapsulates the diversity and vibrancy of the Philippines, appealing to a wide range of tourists by showcasing the country's natural beauty, cultural richness, and historical significance. The inclusion of iconic symbols in the logo helps convey a message of love and appreciation for the many facets that make the Philippines a unique and attractive destination.

[inviewadventures]

Southeast Asian Cuisine: Culinary Delights

Let’s go on a journey through Southeast Asian Cuisine, where each dish tells a story of tradition and flavor. This guide unveils the culinary treasures of Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia, and beyond. Southeast Asia serves hundreds of culinary delights for those wanting to try new foods and experience different tastes. Exploring the diverse cuisine in Southeast Asia allows people to better understand the history and people of the region. So, if you’re considering visiting the area any time soon, there are certain dishes you certainly will want to take advantage of! Let’s jump in and look at the highlights of some of the essential dishes in the region.

A Foodie’s Journey Through Southeast Asian Cuisine

Indonesia 

Indonesian cuisine is less famous than other regions like Thailand or China internationally (a situation the Economist attributes to varying factors like politics and prejudice). But there are incredible dishes using rich, flavorful ingredients and spices. An Indonesian staple is rice. It may be served steamed, slightly cooked, or wrapped in leaves. Other popular foods include soup, noodles, and dishes like Nasi Goreng and Rendang.

Rendang is a traditional Indonesian dish originating from Padang. It consists of tenderized beef marinated in coconut milk and traditional species. It certainly is a favorite among people visiting the region. Other notable mentions include satay lilit in Bali. This is a grilled minced meat dish seasoned with chili, lime, and lemongrass. Siomay, a street snack consisting of fish dumplings, sliced potatoes, cabbage, and tofu, topped with a tasty peanut sauce is also great.

The Philippines

Filipino cuisine is more like a fusion of various cultures and influences from Malay, China, and Spain. Some of the more popular choices for those visiting the region include Lechon (roast pig), a staple in Cebu. Don’t miss out on chicken inasal (a charcoal-grilled chicken dish). If you have the chance, enjoy the authentic version in Bacolod. Other tasty meals include adobo (which is marinated meat), and morcon (made from beef, poor, sausages, onions and eggs).

If you’re visiting Davao, take advantage of the opportunities to try durian. There’s also numerous varieties of durian fruit (consisting of candies, cake, flavored coffee, and more). If you are looking for a new taste sensation, the Philippines is definitely the right choice for you.

Southeast Asian Cuisine – Thailand 

The history of Thai food interweaves ingredients and cooking methods from various cultures. The result is a culinary experience that attracts people from around the world. If you’re looking to participate in it, Thai street food is a perfect choice. While visiting, definitely don’t miss out on the roadside stalls where you can try out some delicious options like moo ping (grilled pork), tom yum goong (hot and sour shrimp), Khao man gai (chicken and rice), Khao niao mamuang (sticky rice), grilled skewers and Pad Thai. Head out early in the morning if you want a comforting bowl of jok, a rice porridge featuring pork topped with ginger and onions. Street food allows for a truly immersive experience for those visiting Thailand and wanting to get a unique taste of their culture. 

If you want to explore Thailand, remember that each city and region features something unique. In Chiang Mai, stop and enjoy Khao Soi, a curry soup made with coconut milk served over egg noodles and topped with layered crispy fried noodles. Heading to Northeastern Thailand? Try Som Tam, a mash of tasty vegetables, Larb, and Nam Toke, and salads of meat, rice, lime, and fish sauce. Staying in the central region of Thailand? Well, many describe Bangkok as a “”food lover’s paradise, ” so don’t miss out on everything the city has to offer. If you’re heading South to the beautiful islands, try Sataw (prawns with a unique flavor), Massaman curry, or Khua Kling.

Vietnam

Southeast Asian Cuisine and Vietnam! If you’re traveling in Vietnam, you’ll encounter a range of dishes and flavors that change from North to South. Those in Sagon enjoy bánh xèo (crispy pancakes) rolled with greens and dipped in sweet-and-sour fish sauce, while Hai An Cao Lau noodles are a popular snack. Don’t miss out on the fantastic street food options like banh mi (a sandwich featuring pickled vegetables, fresh cilantro, pork belly, pork floss, and cucumber) or pho (featuring flat rice noodles with beef or chicken cooked in a hearty stock, spiced with clove, and cinnamon and anise). 

Bánh Xèo, emerging from the Mekong Delta and popular in south and central Vietnam, features a batter made from coconut milk and rice. The filling contains pork, bean sprouts, and shrimp. If you still have room, try Che, a dessert sometimes served hot or cold and topped with fruits like bananas and longan. The unique combination of sauces, herbs, and spices creates a memorable experience that captures Vietnamese cuisine.

Singapore

We have to talk about Singapore if we are talking about Southeast Asian Cuisine. Singapore’s cuisine combines influences from China, Malay, and India. Some staples include Hainanese chicken rice and chili crab. Suppose you’re looking to check out some fine dining. In that case, several Michelin-star regional restaurants offer a promising taste sensation.

Laos

Laos’ amazing scenery and deep cultural legacy makes it a popular choice. The food is also worth trying out. Laotian cuisine is not as well known in the West. The dishes may seem simple, but it’s quite flavorful, frequently combining fermented pork and fish with chilies and fresh herbs (think mint, cilantro, makrut lime leaf, ginger, garlic, etc.).

Cambodia

When we talk about Southeast Asian Cuisine, we have to talk about Cambodia. The use of different herbs and spices, together with the addition of tropical fruits from the area, define the cuisine. The region’s most popular dishes include lok lak, a stir-fried beef dish; fish amok, which is fish made with banana leaves; and amok, a stew made with kroeung and fresh coconut milk. The cuisine of the area combines a variety of tastes, from spicy to sweet, to produce a flavor profile that is sure to please. You might want to try kangkep baob if you’re feeling more daring. It’s a frog that’s been roasted over hot coals packed with peanuts, chiles, pork, and different spices like garlic and lemongrass.

Southeast Asian Cuisine: A Feast for Foodies

Southeast Asian Cuisine is delicious. Whether you want to visit the numerous street vendors or immerse yourself in an exciting culinary experience by visiting a more upscale restaurant, you will be very content with Southeast Asian food. There are an infinite variety of flavors and dishes worth exploring. Hopefully, this article has pointed you toward some of the more popular ones you wouldn’t wouldn’t-would want to take advantage of. Also, please check my other article on Discovering the Wonders of Southeast Asia Travel: A Comprehensive Travel Guide.

And as always, don’t forget to follow to be in the loop. 👍

[japan-tourist-places-in-tokyo]

Best Places You Must Visit in Tokyo

Introduction:

Explore japan tourist places in Tokyo, which is a very interesting combination of tradition and also modernity. Admire the famous Tokyo Tower, take a walk through the historical Asakusa district, visit the lively Shibuya Crossing, taste the delicious sushi at Tsukiji Fish Market, and relax in the peaceful Meiji Shrine. Diverse wonders for every traveler await in Tokyo.

Tokyo's Towering Beauty: The symbol of the city, the Tokyo Tower is a very tall standing building with its orange and white exterior. Climb to get the panoramic views of the city’s sprawling skyline where modernity sits with tradition and a visual feast of lights and landmarks for the eyes.

Historical Charm of Kyoto: The city of Kyoto, also a capsule of Japan’s past, has many ancient temples such as Kinkaku-ji and peaceful tea houses in areas such as Gion. Walk along the streets of history where the traditional wooden machiya houses take you back to the nostalgia of the old times.

Natural Serenity in Hakone: Hakone, a serene haven, beckons you to unwind in its revitalizing hot springs, under the watchful eye of Mount Fuji. The untouched nature, including dense forests, and quiet lakes, only adds to the tranquil ambiance, making it a very perfect getaway.

Osaka's Culinary Delights: Osaka, a foodie’s dream, comes with an exciting street food culture. From savory takoyaki to the crispy okonomiyaki, savor the local treats. Discover the famous markets such as Kuromon Ichiba, where the smell of different tastes permeates the air, a culinary tour for every tongue.

Hiroshima's Peaceful Memorial: There is a memorial park in Hiroshima, a place of remembrance that honors the past. The Atomic Bomb Dome is a symbol of the city’s history. As you walk through the park and its peaceful environment, meditate on the messages of peace and resilience to encourage reflection and comprehension.

Snowy Adventure in Sapporo: Sapporo turns into a winter fairytale, mesmerizing tourists with its famous snow festivals and ski slopes. Enjoy the wonders of the snow sculptures, sample the local food at the Sapporo Snow Festival, and ski or snowboard in the beautiful Hokkaido scenery.

Nagasaki's Rich Maritime History: Dejima Island, a former trading outpost, showcases the maritime legacy of Nagasaki. Visit the old Dutch trading post that has been preserved and learn about Nagasaki in its maritime history. The Peace Memorial deepens the meaning, considering Nagasaki’s strength and dedication to peace after the atomic bombing.

Majestic Landscapes of Nikko: Nikko promises a grandiose landscape, home to UNESCO World Heritage sites such as the Toshogu Shrine. Admire the beautiful structures and peaceful scenery. Discover Nikko’s natural landscape, including the majestic waterfalls, where the spiritual and natural elements combine to form a mystical environment in this timeless and idyllic locale.

Conclusion:

Japan presents a collage of experiences, ranging from the high-tech marvels of Akihabara to the tranquillity of the Nikko. Indeed, as the Diper Tour brings the Filipinos closer to these wonders, Japan’s charm becomes more obtainable. Celebrate the cultural convergence in the Japan tourists spots from Philippines, which serves as a great bridge between nations that share similar wonders and also memories.

[magicmirech]

THE TREE OF LIFE - National Museum of Natural History

[carlocarrasco]

Bureau of Immigration (BI) says tighter visa rules for Chinese tourists to help ensure national security

The government here in the Philippines are trying to balance the nation’s need of security and the gains from attracting foreign tourists. Specifically speaking, the spotlight is currently on the handling of visa requirements from Chinese tourists as the Bureau of Immigration (BI) made clear the need to help ensure national security, according to a GMA Network news report. The BI responded to…

[robpinzon]

A Celebration of Roots: The Second Cordillera Festival of Festivals

The Cordilleras, a mountainous region in northern Luzon, Philippines, is a treasure trove of rich cultural heritage. This cultural vibrancy was showcased in the recently concluded Second Cordillera Festival of Festivals, held in Baguio City on November 11, 2023. This grand cultural event was an initiative of the Department of Tourism-Cordillera Administrative Region (DOT-CAR), aimed at…

[kynaswhereabouts]

Gina Experiences: a start-up travel booking app for unique travel experiences in Naga City and Bicol

If you are a frequent traveler and familiar with Klook, a booking app for travel experiences, then you'll might be interested with Gina Experiences as well. Gina is a start-up travel company for unique travel experiences here in Naga City and Bicol. And who would have thought that a 20-year old would be able to come-up with the idea of a start-up business that offers unique travel experiences especially in our hometown, Naga City, Camarines Sur, Bicol, Philippines.

I admit, it was bit difficult to market and promote Naga City to foreign and local tourists/travelers because there seems to be nothing much to see here in our small city. Like if you will be going to visit Bicol, you would rather visit Albay or other municipalities in Camarines Sur for tourism. Naga City doesn't seem to offer much in tourism except Pilgrimage Tour and Penafrancia Festival. If you want to go for nature and adventure trips, you have to go outside Naga City since we also do not have beaches. However, we also do have hotsprings and Malabsay Falls on the upland of Naga City (Panicuason and Carolina).

When I first encountered Gina, I was just able to see a post about them having a free walking heritage tour in Naga City. Off course, I immediately signed up for it because I am interested in history and even though I grew up knowing about the history of Naga and other historical places here in our beloved pilgrim city, I knew that I will be able to learn something new from these people too.

WALKING HERITAGE TOUR EXPERIENCE

It was last July 2022, when Gina held a first walking heritage tour in Naga City. As far as I know it was the pilot of Gina offering this king experience.

Growing up in Naga City, I have always been to these places and knew its history at heart. But every time I get to join group tours in Naga, I get to know more about it and always learn something new from different tour guides. I always get to see Naga City in a new perspective from different storytellers.

Walking tours are a fun way to also learn about history. We will always go back to these places with new learnings and reconnect with our origins as Nagueños. We can say that this was once this and that or this place is where that historic event happened.

As Naga slowly adapts to modernization, I realized that traces of history and cultural heritage are slowly diminishing. But having this kind of tour is one way of preserving them especially its stories. History can be found not just in architecture or monuments but also in people. We became part of history as we protect, preserve and learn from it.

SUNFLOWER FARM EXPERIENCE

Upon having to experience a walking heritage tour with Gina, I love the fact that they created new experience to explore with them. I have always wanted to visited the Sunflower farm in Pacol, Naga City. However, I knew I would need a service to go there. In fact, going there through public transportation doesn’t seem feasible. It is hard to go there via public transporation cause there are hardly jeeps going there.

It was some time in February 2023 when I decided to book with Gina for Sunflower Expeprience. I considered it a solo gaming tour for Valentine’s Day. I was also probably just bored that I went there on my own but with help of Gina off course to arrange transpo and a tour at the Sunflower farm.

The sunflowers last February were in full bloom there at Sunflower Farm in Pacol, Naga City! The Sunflower Farm Experience through Gina had a fun learning experience about the planting, cultivating and harvesting of these flowers. Also, I got learn how to arrange a bouquet from Ma'am Jeanelyn Ador, a sunflower farmer because they have a sunflower bouquet workshop too.

One thing that I really like from this package is that it was not just about the flowers and the aesthetics. I like that we also get to interact with local farmers and know more about the flowers that they plant. The demand for flowers is seasonal. It is in demand mostly during Valentine's Day, Holy Week and Undas. At least through this, we get to support their livelihood too either way. This short visit made me interested in flowers and farming. Moreso, here we also get to learn how to arrange a bouquet. I did mine with the help of Ma'am Jeanelyn. (I gave the sunflower bouquet I made to mama after. Hehe)

BICOL CULINARY EXPERIENCE

Some time this July, I was invited along with a fellow influencers and media friends for the pilot of Bicol Culinary Experience that Gina was offering. In partnership with Pechelitos, Gina was able to create a new experience and activities to offer that highly promotes culinary and gastronomic tourism of Naga.

At the Bicol Culinary Experience, we get to learn how to cook Bicol delicacies and experience how to prepare it hands-on from Pechelitos’ in-house chef, Chef Hugo San Juan. The Bicolano dishes we prepared were Kinalas, Bopis, Kinunot and Ginataang Santol.

The Bicol Culinary Experience with Gina at Pechelitos is such an immersive experience because it gives you a fun and exciting hands-on experience in the preparation of authentic local Bicolano dishes. You can get involve in the step-by-step process with the guidance of the chef and unlock the secrets to achieving their authentic flavor.

Gina’s Bicol Culinary Experience is the first to offer this experience here that highly promotes culinary tourism and helps preserve our culinary heritage.

One thing I really like about this experience is that we get to learn something new today. (Ps. Dae po ako tatao magluto haha) Moreso, we get to appreciate the art of cooking Bicolano dishes which is a representation of the region's unique flavors and culinary heritage through this kind of activity.

OTHER ACTIVITIES

Gina also offers other different kinds of activities like Walwal Tours where in you can go bar hopping, the Blood Moon Experience in Camaligan last year where in you can watch and observe the Blood Moon and Eclipse at Camaligan River Park with the help of a telescope and an expert explaining about the natural phenomenon, Naga Pilgrimage Tour which you get to visit all the historical churches in Naga, Isarog Hiking Experience where you can hike to experience the cloud of seas at the summit of My. Isarog, and the Mulberry Island Experience in Caramoan where you can immerse in the islander life with the locals doing what they do and learn from them.

I love the initiatives of Gina because they create linkages with local tourism stakeholders/service providers while at the same time give tourists/travelers new perspectives and authentic experienced that they’ll surely enjoy.

ABOUT GINA

Gina was founded by Gwen Joson, a 20-year old marketing student of University of Sto. Tomas Manila (UST). According to her it was in the early 2021 when she thought of creating ways to help those who lost their jobs because of the pandemic especially in the tourism sector. She stressed that, she knew a lot of people and establishments that provides tourism services who were gravely affected by the pandemic. She wanted to help them and at the same time enhance local tourism and the community they belong it.

Gwen also shared that there has been a gap between tourism services providers and tourists/travelers. "Pag tourist ka sa isang lugar, hindi mo alam kung saan ka talaga pupunta. Medyo kulang ang available sa internet na info or how to get to places or kung saan ba magandang pumunta and ano ang magandang gawin dito. Also hindi rin siya madaling mahanap as a tourist or kung wala kang kakilala sa lugar." She said.

"With Gina, we wanted to give you yung freedom to design your travel. To explore the world, explore the Philippines, yung communities and yung ma-ooffer nila na mga labas sa ordinary. Lalo yung mga experiences na tulad nito na hindi mo naman talaga mahahanap sa iba ." She also added.

For the meantime, Gina is focused in offering travel experiences in Naga City and Bicol. Gwen emphasized that she wanted to start and focus first in the place where she grew up and where she is from. She is hopeful that she can eventually expand her business to the entire Philippines.

What makes Gina different from a travel agency is that they offer unique experiences and activities that you can book. You can only book the activities you want. Unlike when you are booking tour packages in travel agencies, you follow a strict itinerary. You might have something in your itinerary that might be not in preference. Gina is like booking at Klook but more localized and advocates local tourism by immersing as well in the local culture of communities.

According to Gwen, they are currently reaching out to potential market through Facebook and other social media platforms like Instagram. The goal is to have an app but since they only started their operations last January 2022, they'll be on social media platform for the meantime until the app is created.

I've asked Gwen what does it feel like to be a young CEO of a start-up business, she answered, "I’m very grateful that I have people who support talaga. Kasi kailagan talaga yung maraming sumusuporta kasi it is not easy to keep moving forward without support. I have to balance school and itong sa business. Right now, I’m looking forward on growing the business kasi yung team naming is very capable. As a CEO, I want to be able to give justice sa hard work and talents nila and it comes with helping our local community to grow the tourism of Naga."

As of per writing, Gina is composed of 5 members: Gwen Joson (CEO), Oliver Rubi (Tech), Caleb Andaya (Operations), Danica Austero (Brand and Design), and Harry Avenido (Business Development). Who would have thought that this team of young minds would be the hope in revamping local tourism industry and communities affected by the pandemic. As we embrace the new normal and move forward to post-pandemic era, I have hope we can put into the map that there is more to Naga and Bicol than what we already know. I can see that Gina has a lot of potential and I know that there are new and exciting things to look forward to for this start-up group.

Let us continue to support Gina and their initiatives and endeavors as they offer their tourism services.

Explore and book any experience with Gina and get 10% off on your bookings using my personal discount code: GINAxKYNA.

Tara na? Gina! 😊

[jpxdeus]

Every year, we Catholics practice Visita Iglesia where we visit 7 or 14 churches to pray and reflect on the Stations of the Cross. This is a popular practice for Catholics during the Lenten Season and is usually done on Maundy Thursday or Good Friday. By visiting churches, we meditate and reflect on the suffering of Christ which brought us salvation. This practice is regarded as a form of penance and some believe that this brings them closer to God.

The pictures above are two of the 7 churches we visited this year with my family. Unfortunately, I failed to take a picture of the 4 other churches we went to as the church compounds are very busy and filled with devotees.