Boracay, Philippines I

When we think of vacation, the number one destination for beach bums in the Philippines is Boracay. It has been crowned as the world's top beach destination by Conde Nast. Top 10 Beach lists across the globe and awarded the Best Island in the World by Travel + Leisure magazine. By the way, this first of the 3 articles I wrote about my trip to Boracay in 2012.

If you'd look at statistics,  it is actually the second summer capital of the Philippines, next to Baguio City way up north. But why Boracay you may ask? Simply because of its smooth, white sands, clear waters, lovely shores, friendly people, preserved environment, romantic sunrise and sunsets, tranquil environment, etc. Leisure activities, sports events, and a whole lot more are held here yearly as sponsored by the country's top brands of lotions, health-related food, drinks etc.

You'd hear about the beauty of the island whole year round, because it is a favorite leisure spot of local and international celebrities.Especially during the holy week and summer season: on TV, the radio and even in social networking sites as pictures and experiences are posted by our dear friends and followers.

I really wanted to go there during the peak season but me and my friends booked us late June, that's why it was a bit cloudy on some days while we were there. Thankfully, my second day at full blast was sunny! hooray!! :)

Might I also add, this wonderful trip was not as expensive as first timers (in Boracay) would expect. For first timers, having Php8,000 - 12,000/head (exclusive of airfares) in your pocket is a enough to enjoy and experience fun activities, dine in good restaurants, and whole other bunch of fun activities. You can always go higher if you wish to have a private rendezvous with your special someone/friends/family.

Good Morning Boracay!

My Favorite Friday Nights at the Metro

Well, for one, it's always nice to eat comfort food on a Friday night and two, the beer and good company sounds perfect with live band after all the hard week's work!

I'm an oyster lover! Seafood lover in general. Baked oysters are treats I can't resist. I could eat them all night if it wasn't all too bad for my health by eating excessive amount of it. So, I just savor each mouthful as I can! lol

Luckily, Oyster Boy is just around the block. Walking distance from the office and my dorm. Situated in Metrowalk Ortigas at Meralco Avenue, Ortigas Center, Pasig City. 

Perfectly baked sumptuous and to-die-for oysters! mmmm :p

A Glimpse of Intramuros: Fort Santiago

June is one of the busiest time of the year. A lot of projects on going, regular hectic working days and overtimes on the rise. Then comes June 12, a national holiday celebrated by Filipinos commemorating our Independence Day from the Spaniards back in 1898. 

This year, I chose to visit Fort Santiago or Fuerza de Santiago, a defense fortress which is a part of Intramuros ("within the walls"), a place where several Filipinos were imprisoned during the Spanish Colonial Period and the World War II.

It is one of the most historical sites in Manila. It even held in its walls for sometime our national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal a few days before his execution. 

Entrance of the Fort surrounded by moats

Let's start this journey!! :)

 Tickets worth Php75.00 only

Manila Ocean Park: Oceanarium and Moonlight Adventure

I'm a normal gemini person with a variety of interests. I shift or add interests every so often. But my love for animals never falter. And I must say that I am very fortunate to have a partner who is also on the same page as I was: spontaneous, out going, animal lover and is open to experience different things all the time to name a few. And, like all other couples, we always look out for new attractions and gimik spots, simply to hang out for entertainment and/or break away from work.

Today, I'll be sharing with you guys our short but fun visit to Manila Ocean Park. Scheduled right after our little tour in Fort Santiago, Intramuros on Independence Day, June 12, 2012.

My agenda during regular holidays: no work, all play. If not, I'll just be at home - sleeping :p 

Here are some of the pictures I took during our adventure at the Ocean Park:

Philippine Hot Air Balloon Festival, Clarkield Pampanga

I was always get excited whenever the hot air balloon festival frenzy is held yearly in Clarkfield, Pampanga. I wouldn't always be there to experience it yearly, but just seeing the colorful hot air balloons pass by (at least a few meters above our rooftop) was enough to keep me happy. 

In February 2012, I get to accompany my dorm mates from Ortigas Metrodorm while I was still working in Ortigas Center. They were very excited as it was their first time to experience the famous festival. The first thing I asked them was to be in Clark at least 5:30 in the morning before the sun rises for them to see the balloons lift off by 6:00am.

My free ticket from Liana Paras. Thank you :)