SUMMER 2011 RECALL: TEAMBUILDING AT 8 WAVES

Summer is officially done and it ended with me not having a real beach experience. The closest I got this year was our teambuilding. This is my first teambuilding with Shell and the location - 8 Waves.

I am not sure what struck me but I am not in the real mood during that day for swimming. The only thing that pushed me to go is the fact that it would be my first teambuilding for Shell and that I would like to capture the experience in pictures. Well, as expected there were a lot of people in the resort and a lot of families making the place crowded as ever. Here are some of the pics me and some of my team mates took.

Till next teambuilding! :)

AIR ASIA EASTER PROMOS

Air Asia is urging all of us to fly to Malaysia and enjoy low fares.
Amounts start from as low as PHP 1099 for flights to Kota Kinabalu from Clark. Kuala Lumpur bound flights on the other hand start from as low as PHP 1990. And from there discover more of Asia and fly from Malaysia to any of the hot destinations in the region. Go and fly to Singapore, Bangkok, Penang and more for as low as PHP 595. Wow, that's an offer.

Book now till 25 Apr 2011  | Travel from 3 May - 30 Jun 2011

For more info on this promo, please visit Air Asia's website: http://www.airasia.com
Photo Credits: Air Asia website

A DATE WITH BATANES

I am a traveller and a dreamer. Yup, those are indeed true and while I may have not gone to a lot of Philippine places the way I visit other countries, I pretty much admire and like the idea of visiting our local destinations. I have an entire list of places I'd love to go to and experience life with - actually a notebook of which. =) One of which is Batanes. What makes me fascinated with Batanes?

Simple. Batanes is just wow. Beautiful indeed. Batanes boasts of beautiful creations, from people, nature and sites. My eyes are itching to get a glimpse of those not just on pictures but also in reality. Truly astounding. Its landscape is one of the best on the country and the weather is simply one of the finest in the archipelago. It will definitely be an escapade as it will be a departure from the normal city lights I am used to. The fresh surrounding is something that would really make one relaxed and comfortable. Attractive in its own ways. Though no blinding lights and tall skyscrapers are abound, its simplicity is one that would really be a marvel to enjoy. Nature in its finest. To burst away from the stress city living puts, a getaway with nature would soothe the mind, the body and even the soul. Culture filled people. To experience days with the Ivatans will be a treasure to better understand them and appreciate even the smallest of smiles. And everything of which will definitely put up an experience that will be amazing and worth remembering.

A date with Batanes. yes, I am expecting one and for it to happen in January of 2011 would definitely be awesome.

Beautiful in its purest of forms... Astounding sceneries and landscape... Travel escapade at its best... Attractions of greatest proportions... Natural beauty on its excellence... Extraordinary people and culture... Simply amazing experience... BATANES

For more info on Batanes and the flights going there through SEAIR, please visit their website <http://flyseair.com/> and the SEAIR Facebook Fan Page <http://www.facebook.com/flyseair>.

Photocredits: Wikipedia

PILIPINAS KAY GANDA GETS PANNED AND GETS PULLED OFF

Department of Tourism is on the hot seat once more and they just could not handle it. Days after introducing their new internet ad/campaign for Philippine tourism, DOT has recalled and pulled the plug on the ad. Thanks God! That was like something not really thought of.

The ad has the new slogan "Pilipinas Kay Ganda" which is for me simply wrong. It's like a mutated version of a mornign show and a noon-time variety program. (Pilipinas Win na Win and Umagang Kay Ganda). I don't know what they were thinking but thankfully they pulled that out one. Thanks to a lot of people that vocally disliked the ad. I think it lacked identity. It is a suicide attempt to salvage the ailing tourism in the Philippines. There's nothing wrong with the current Wow Philippines slogan but what is wrong is how we campaign. We don't let people see the real beauty of the Philippines. Well since you're not gonna see the "Pilipinas Kay Ganda" slogan anymore, just for perspective here it is and you be the judge.

Photo credits: Yahoo News Philippines

A LOOK ON SINGAPORE: PLACES TO ENJOY, THINGS TO EXPERIENCE

One of the countries I have visited for many times already is Singapore. A relatively small country in compared to the other Southeast Asian nations like Thailand, Philippines and Malaysia, it boasts of a lot of things to enjoy, explore and simply marvel on.

I like Singapore because of its cleanliness and the presence of the green scenery even in the city proper. This is one good combination since I love urban living so much and having the sense of nature induced into the urban living is a really wonderful thing. While most of the global community specifically Filipinos are noticing Singapore just now due to the opening of the Universal Studios, I have been a fan of this country for a long time already.
Here are the Top 10 things (places/activities) I have enjoyed in my visits to Singapore and I bet you would not want to miss these when you go there.

1. Universal Studios Singapore
- All I could say is this is really one wonderful experience. You could feel the fun and enjoyment even from the entrance itself. You should not miss a photo chance with the "Universal" globe in the entrance. And once you're in the theme park, you will just say "Wow"! Get your feel of the wonderful rides (I will do s separate feature on this). One ride I specifically enjoyed was the "Revenge of The Mummy", a dark rollercoaster ride set in the dark confines of their Ancient Egypt area. Aside from that, indulge with a lot of shopping for USS items like tshirts, keychains, magnets, mugs and a whole lot more. And who would not miss out on the colorful characters in the theme park. I had pictures with a whole bunch of them.

2. Sentosa Island
- Excluding Universal Studios, Sentosa Island is still one of the more fun areas in Singapore. In here, you get to experience beach within the city. Also, I enjoyed the luge ride which was so fun now that it has 2 trackes already. The skyride was also nice as you get to see the full view of the island. And one would enjoy the Sentosa trains as well as it will get you back and forth of the island. More stuff are in there like the Tiger Sky Tower, Mega Zip Adventure Park and the very huge Merlion statue towering over the entire island.

3. Merlion/Esplanade
- The proof that you have been in Singapore is and will always be the merlion. Half-lion and half-merman, this statue that is situated in the heart of Singapore has been a long time symbol of the country. And while you're in the vicinity, don't fail to take pics of the picturesque Esplanade, Singapore Flyer and Marina Bay Sands which are all within shooting distance.

4. Marina Bay Sands
- Singapore's newest attraction and one heck of a structure it is. Designed like a boat on top of three towers of buildings, Marina Bay Sands is house to several hotels and a bunch of shopping establishments like Vertu, Bvlgari, Fendi and YSL to name a few. A wonderful structure indeed and one that is worth the drop.

5. Singapore Zoo/Night Safari
- Kids and even adults will enjoy a date with nature in Singapore as well. Singapore Zoo boasts of a number of animals from which you would see and a different feel is injected by the Night Safari. If you want animals in the city, then don't forget to visit these.

6. Shopping
- Outside of Hongkong, one wonderful location to shop is Singapore. If you are into branded stuffs fo sure you'll have a mouth watering time in the locale. Wonderful shopping center to visit include Marina Bay Sands, Vivo City, ION Orchard, Takashimaya, Marina Square, Tangs and Paragon to name a few. From clothes, shoes, apparel, accessories and gadgets. You name it they have it.

7. Clarke Quay
- Your night is not complete without a doze of music and booze. And one place to go is Clarke Quay area. A lot of bars, cafes and discos are abound and you will surely have a good night to cap your day. Some days also have shows by the river like magic spectacles and fireworks display. Aside from it, within the area is the exhilirating Reverse Bungy which I tried but I think won't try again. That was nerve wracking.

8. Singapore Flyer
- A bit expensive by Filipino standards but I still think the flyer is such a wonderful experience. The towering ferris wheel as most people would relate, the experience in it is such a nice one. Luxurious dining and drinking is also there. For those who have money to spare try this one and see the city to the fullest. Recommended to try on evenings.

9. Changi International Airport
- When I first landed in Singapore in 2007 I was put in awe with its airport. I told myself that even If I don't get out and just stary at the airport I won't be bored. Boasting of 3 big terminals and a budget terminal, each area is packed with a lot of stuff to do. Shop till you drop with the endless selection of items. Dine and binge with several food choices. Once tired, try to relax and go to their sports zone or the TV zone. If you are the tekkie type, play on with Playstation or Xbox in their game area or simply connect to the internet with their numerous computers everywhere.

10. Chinatown
- For budget shopping one must go here. Pasalubongs can be easily bought here at the mimimal prices from keychains, shirts, bells, magnets or ornaments. Also, a must try in here are their choices of street food, particularly noodles everywhere. In here you can have your noodles, stir-fried, crispy or down right saucy.

I will never tire visiting Singapore as it has brought in me a whole lot of wonderful and fun memories.

THE MAGIC OF DISNEYLAND

There is really something magical with Disneyland. I have been at the Hongkong Disneyland for 2 times already and still it has not failed to amaze me with all its color, music and grandeur.

In it, you unleash the inner youth in you. Who says Disneyland is just for kids? It is for everyone. What's utterly nice is one will surely enjoy its stay in the theme park - from entrance to exit, from start till end. Even the train going to the island was wonderful with lots of Disney figurines and Mickey Mouse windows. The rides were simply breathtaking and gorgeous. You'll find one that's suited for you despite your age and your likes. I enjoyed every single bit of the rides and sights but I have personal favorites that I would certainly return to if ever given the chance.

Topping the list of rides for me is the thrilling "Space Mountain" - the dark, cold and truly breathtaking indoor rollercoaster. Well, I did scream a lot but it was a blast. For the inner child in me, I also liked "It's A Small World" specially the portion where the song was translated to Filipino. Makes me proud of who I am. I had fun with Buzz Lightyear's "Astro Blasters". The Jungle Cruise was also nice and I get to try it on daytime and nightime. I enjoyed the night ride better as the sound effects and visuals were more creepy than during the day. And while you're at it, it is also a good thing to catch the "Philharmagic" where you'll have 4D cinematic experience. Have the 3D ambiance of the screen plus the feel of the actual scenes from jumps, water splashes and air blows.

Visiting the several shops for some souvenirs was also a blast. They have it all from shirts, magnets and key chains. I had for myself keychains, magnets and a jacket. And it will never be a complete experience if you did not grab any pics together with the Disney characters. Mickey, Minnie and the rest of the Disney gang are just taking turns in sharing a spot in everyone's photos.

Disneyland will always have a special part in my heart. It makes me child even for a while. During times when things aren't going okay, it helps to feel the youthfulness and innocence of a child. That and a whole lot of fun and surprises is what Disneyland is all about. Till my next trip.

ASIAN TOURS

I have travelled several countries and places in Asia and I might say I loved every moment of it. But of course, there are some places which left a big mark in my heart. I have enlisted my Top 10 Asian destinations, landmarks and places of public interest of which I truly loved and would love to return over and over again. (excluding places from Philippines)

 1. Disneyland, Hongkong

- If we are talking of theme parks and recreations, top on the list would have to be HK Disneyland. It is mesmerizing, wonderful and fun. Disneyland lets you bring out the inner child in you. I never thought I would enjoy it by much but the colors and sounds of Disneyland really captivated me. I ride almost everything in there including those kiddie rides. What I enjoyed the most is the "Space Mountain" ride. Also notable on the list are "It's A Small World", "Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters", "Jungle River Cruise" and "Philharmagic". A great thing to cap it off is the fireworks display at the evening.

2. Universal Studios, Singapore

- New into the theme park market, USS has grabbed a big share of the clients in Asia competing with HK's Dinseyland. Too bad Battlestar Galactica was still closed when I visited there. But even with that all the rest of the rides were truly amazing but I might say shorter in terms of time in compared to Disneyland's times. The best that I have experienced is "The Revenge of the Mummy" whidh is an indoor rollercoaster - creepy but nice. And I could not forget that I went home with wet shirt and pants as I went out soaked riding "Jurassic Park Rapids".

3. Ocean Park, Hongkong

- Another theme park in Hongkong that truly made me all smiles is Ocean Park. This is more suited to the teens, adolescents and older people but nevertheless kids would still enjoy it. Most of the rides are more fit for adults than children. What is enjoyable here is the cable car ride or as they call it the gondola lift system. I was so thrilled having to experience it the first time. And I also got wet riding the "Raging River".

4. St. Paul's Church, Macau

- I enjoyed and marveled at the great architecture of this church in Macau. The picturesque features that bodes well with the stairs connecting it is a wonder and marvel to see.

5. Sentosa Island, Singapore

- The original Sentosa Island attractions (minus Universal Studios) was one of the place freaquently visited in Singapore. Travelling from Vivo City Mall through the Sentosa Express, one would be treated to see the much bigger version of the Merlion. Fun things to do here include the "Skyride" and "Tiger Sky Tower". But the best of them all is the "Sentosa Luge" which I loved. Even if with Universal Studios already established, Sentosa Island stil holds its own and continues to pack some visitors from different parts of the globe.

6. Genting Highlands, Malaysia

- Malaysia's prime them park boasts a combination of all the theme parks (Disneyland, Universal Studios, etc..). What sets it apart is the location which is located in the mountain peaks of Genting, Malaysia. Riding the rollercoaster sure makes you shiver not just because of the height but also because of the very cold weather. The best ride for me is their extreme rollercoaster: "Corkscrew". Plus I enjoyed their "Snow World" as well.

7. Maya Bay, Phuket, Thailand

- This is a wonder to watch, The clean waters and the nice amazon like background. Truly this is a nice place/spot to marvel the beauty of nature and beaches. And did I forgot to tell that this is the location of Leonardo Dicaprio's "The Beach"?

8. Angkor Wat, Cambodia

- All I could say was "wow". For me to see the structure up close and personal was really breathtaking. It's nice to visit this as you can see the rich heritage and culture of Cambodia. I thought I would only see its replica (located in the Great Palace in Thailand) but thank God I was able to marvel at this wonderful temple.

9. Kuta Beach, Bali, Indonesia

- One of the more famous beaches in Bali is Kutra Beach. Known to be the most crowded of all beaches, it is home to surfers that come from all over the world. The nice people, the great sand and the mix of entertainment around is truly exciting. Too many hot bodies around as well to feed your eyes.

10. Petronas Towers, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

- When I went to Malaysia, one thing that was set into my mind is to visit the Petronas Towers. The tall towers majestically standing in the hearts of Kuala Lumpur is truly one of the greater architectural structures in Asia. And how could I forget that I had a hard time capturing the tower in its entirety while making sure I'm still in the picture. Whew!

MY BAGUIO ADVENTURE

In terms of local destinations, Baguio remains one of the sought after tourist spots in the Philippines. Regarded as the Summer Capital of the Philippines, Baguio is frequently visited by people due to its good weather. I myself enjoyed it by much. You can walk with your jacket on around the city even during noontime. Bet you can't do that it Metro Manila.

What are the things I won't forget in Baguio. Aside from the weather, I really liked a lot of stuff in Baguio. The intricate architecture of the Baguio Cathedral is a wonder to marvel. It can be seen that the church is maintained really well. There's also the Burnham Park. Despite it losing some of its beauty, it still remains as one of the landmarks of the city. In here, you can rent a boat and take a breather of the nice cool breeze. Lourdes Grotto is also one of the tourist spots here and is a must see for Catholics. More parks to explore includes Mines View Park and Wright Park. If you are into flowers and plants, then the Botanical Gardens is also a must visit. While on the way, don't forget to take a brief break and take a picture or two of The Mansion.

And who could forget food when travelling? I don't. You can get a taste of the best strawberries in town here. Plus get to taste the strawberry flavored taho which really bodes well to my sweet tongue. Also don't fail to grab some ube and delicacies at The Good Shepherd Convent. They are very tasty and at the same time you are helping out to their cause. And while you are at it, better snuggle some vegetables and bring them all the way back to the metro. They have the best cauliflowers, lettuce and brocollis i've ever seen. For good food specially for dinners, try visiting Cafe by the Ruins and you'll be treated with a sumptuous meal you'll surely enjoy.

And just when you thought, Baguio is nothing close to urbanization, then you got it wrong. One should never miss SM Baguio. Its unique structure which was built on a cliff is a one of a kind structure. Plus who needs aircon when your weather is that cold? SM Baguio boasts of an open air concept to allow the natural coldness cover the entire facility.

Baguio is truly a wonder. I'll never tire out visiting such a wonderful place. My most recent visit was my 7th already. Can't wait for my return to Baguio. Till we meet again.

COUNTRY FOCUS: PHILIPPINES

I will start it off by giving an overview of the Philippines, my home country.

Philippines, PILIPINAS in Filipino is a country in the South East Asia region. It is an archipelago that consists of more than 7,000 islands (7,107 to be exact - well, depending whether it is high tide or low tide). It is the 5th longest coastline in the world. It comprises of 3 big islands - Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao. Official Language is Filipino, Currency is Philippine Peso and capital is Manila.

A pre-dominantly Catholic Christian country, a big part of the populace is also Muslim (majority in Mindanao region). The culture in the Philippines is a mixture or hybrid of a whole bunch of cultures. Well, blame that to those people who have conquered our lands. You can see traces of Spanish, Malay, Japanese and American culture and way of living within the Filipino people. There are several delicacies you should try that is uniquely Filipino. Dishes ranging from Adobo, Sinigang and Pinakbet are indeed a must to try. Other unique food choices are also present. There is the balut, isaw, crickets, frog (tastes like chicken) and a whole bunch of interesting things worthy of a bite. Travel wise, Philippines is an archipelago, therefore known for its nice beaches. Popular locations in the Philippines are Boracay, Puerto Galera, Calatagan, Batangas, Bohol, Clark and Cebu for some of the nice beaches. For nice sight-seeing and sceneries, one can always choose from a wide range of places. Bohol is famous for its Chocolate Hills, Baguio for its cold climate and a sneak peak of our Rice Terraces, Albay for our Mayon Volcano, Taal for the nice views of Taal Lake and Volcano, Ilocos for its nice Hispanic structures and churches, Davao for clean city down south, CamSur for its nice wakeboarding sites, Bacolod for its famous Ruins, Cebu for some of the landmarks for Philippine History and Religion and Palawan for its breath-taking scenes that would all leave you in awe. These are only few of the places one can enjoy in the Philipiines. I would be focusing on each one of them as I get to travel some of them already and will share personal experiences and pictures as well. Phillipines is a wonderful country full of things to explore and discover. People should try visiting this country more as for sure they will have a lot of things learned after their trip. I am proud to be PINOY.