Batu Caves

Batu Caves is a stunning tourist destination in Malaysia. The highlight of the visit is climbing the 272 steps leading up to the temple. Batu caves consists of three big caves, with the main cave housing ornate Hindu shrines.

Yakimix Sushi and Smokeless Grill

Yakimix is one of my favorite out-of-hotel buffet restaurants. Aside from the fact that it's accessible from my place (Yakimix Masinag), the food line up doesn't overwhelm my food senses. It doesn't give me that "umay" feeling :)

Macky's Goto

Good food doesn't always have to be expensive. Goto is a budget busting cheap dish that truly satisfies pinoy cravings. I mean, who doesn't like goto, aber? In Marikina, when we speak of goto, there are only two carinderias in mind - Estella's Goto or Macky's Goto.

Dining at Cafe Lidia

Cafe Lidia is the most popular restaurant in the City of Marikina. It offers wide variety food choices - from appetizers to entrée to deserts and snacks - that satisfy dining pleasures :)

Quick Meryenda at Ramen Bar

I was very excited to taste what could be my best ramen experience. But the God of Ramen seemed resting when we visited Ramen Bar, Libis, Quezon City.

Grazzie, Bellini

Bellini's Cafe is one of my favorite food hubs situated in Marikina. Elbert and I usually eat here after office period, when our stomach calls for food due to traffic ordeal (he-he). We've been to Bellini's on several occasions and I must say they consistently serve tasty and absolutely flavorful Italian dishes.

The Blessed Image in Regina Rica

My family visited our Tita in Tanay, Rizal for her birthday. But, before our sumptuous 'feast', we attended a mass at the Regina RICA.

The Little Flower

"I do not have any other means to prove my love to you, but to throw flowers, that is to let no little sacrifice, no look, no word pass, to take advantage of all the littlest of things and to do them out of love... Hence, I pluck every flower I find on my way, for Jesus. And then as I strew my flowers before Him I desire to sing, although I have had to pluck them among thorns. And the sharper and longer the thorns, the sweeter is my song." - St. Therese of Lisieux, "The Little Flower"

Gastronomic Adventure

Traveling to another country doesn't only mean visiting its famous destinations. It also means making yourself available to try out local food or cuisine regardless its tastes, look or smell (talk about exotic food!). For me, tasting local dishes is the most exciting adventure a budget traveler like me could jump into ;)

A (Rainy) Day in Phillip's Sanctuary

It's the most spacious team building venue I've ever been into. But I blame typhoon Odette for the heavy downpour. We were soaked in the rain and weren't able to maximize what Phillip's Sanctuary has to offer. 

Mogu Tree Noodle House

Hello, Mogu Tree House!

Rain was pouring hard when Elbert and I visited Mogu Tree House in Lilac St., SSS Village. This is the first day of our quest to try out commendable food hubs in my lupang sinilangang Marikina.

Angelica's Lomi House

Sumptuous lomi in Angelica's Lomi House

This is going to be a quick post.

If you haven't been to Angelica's Lomi House and Eatery in Batangas, then you're doomed! (ha-ha). Kidding aside, Angelica's lomi is DA-BOMB! I love spicy food so I sprinkled it with tons of pepper and soy sauce for that extra saltiness. Kalamansi is also provided.

Batangas Beach Hoppin' - Blue Coral

Blue Coral Beach Resort, Batangas

Thinking where to go somewhere in Batangas for a beach getaway especially with your barkadas or families? I hope this series would help you decide. I joined my colleagues for an ocular visit for my company's summer getaway. I seriously had fun doing this activity. But it was really tiring at the end of the day! :p

Baclayon Church

The Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception in Baclayon is considered to be one of the oldest churches in the Philippines. It is one of the best preserved Jesuit build churches in the region, although in the 19th century, the Augustinian Recollects added a modern facade and a number of stone buildings that now surround the church. - Source www.bohol.ph

Related Posts:
- Catholic Churches in Bohol 
- Beautiful Bohol  

Catholic Churches in Bohol

Albuquerque Church

It was surprising to see various Catholic churches in Bohol. Big, small, simple, elaborate structures...they're practically everywhere. So, we took advantage of our van rental. Good thing our driver was patient enough for stop-overs.

Hello, Mr. Caterpilar

Looks eeky?! :D This is a dead higad or caterpillar taken during our day trip to Tanay at my Tita Rose's vacant property.  This is my first attempt with Elbert's DIY (Do It Yourself) macro gears. Sometime 2010. I miss macro shoot! :(

How I did it? One word: PATIENCE! :p

Mission in Negros

I went to Negros Occidental sometime last quarter of 2010. I didn't go there for pleasure but for missionary works. The Holy Rosary Mission of the Philippines conducted its annual celebration of its branch in Negros and I was lucky to be part of the feeding project. I spent three days there to propagate the devotion of Mama Virgin Mary and her rosary.

Pairs and Partners

This is my first winning piece in our photography club (Well, not really winning-winning because I topped as the 2nd place - haha). The subject/concept is PAIRS and PARTNERS for February.

I took this at the lounge of our office. Those are actually Bacardi and red wine. Kuya waiter sliced some lemons for me (for extra flair daw! he-he).

For this shot I used a 50mm Canon lens that gave me a niece and swabeng bokeh. It's one of my favorite lens. Cheap yet effective! :) 

Cebu City's Finest

I must admit, I only get to visit Cebu because of Bohol. We always take a quick stop to this beautiful city which is just 2-hour ferry ride to and from Tagbilaran City.

Levain Boulangerie & Patisserie

 

French Cafe? In Malaysia? I was looking forward to trying out Malaysian dishes for the whole span of our trip. Since my ate said it's worth it, so we gave it a try. After a tiring photowalk in Batu Caves and drooling over chocolates at Berly's Chocolate Factory, we headed to Levain for lunch which is just a street away (and yes walking distance) from Berlys.

I Left my Heart in Boracay

Boracay Island

Last year was my 5th time in Boracay and I am telling you, I will never hesitate to pay a visit for the 6th...7th...8th...Boracay is my comfort beach escape miles and miles away from Manila. It's my favorite beach ever :D

Stunning El Nido via Puerto Prinsesa

Photo credits: Juliet Chan and Sheila Co

El Nido is located in the province of Palawan, Region 4 Philippines. It’s known for pristine beaches, crystal-clear water, stunning limestone cliffs and best of all an awe-inspiring and diversified ecosystem. It’s one of the most popular tourist destinations in Palawan along with Puerto Prinsesa Underground River and Coron beaches (Trinity of Palawan).

Full Moon

"One small step for man, one giant leap for mankind." - Neil Armstrong

Nope. That's not a Supermoon. It's just a plain full moon sometime in November 2012. I patiently waited for the sky to clear. the beauty of the moon fascinates me because of it's mysterious personality. 

En route to Puray Falls

When we speak of Montalban, Wawa comes firsts. I wasn't aware that there's such a thing as Puray Falls in the vicinity of Rizal.

Crystal Beach, Zambales

My friends were leaning towards the idea of of surfing over the weekend in San Juan, La Union. But I suggested to try out other place that's worth staying without having to spend too much time in transit. Getting to La Union would require us at least 5 hour bus ride. I would probably say yes had we had a private car (taray!).

And There Was Light...

Photo was taken in Blue Coral Beach Resort, Batangas in 2010. The design of their deluxe rooms captivated me while clouds flaunt its playful beauty while shooting.

Beautiful Bohol

Panglao Beach

I always tell my friends that Panglao Beach Bohol is the tame version of Boracay. If you yearn for sheer relaxation along the beach minus night life (and hot bar tenders- ha-ha), then Panglao is for you. Though the stretch of the beach may not be completely covered with solid fine white sand like Boracay (there are isolated stone/rock formations in some areas), Panglao Beach never ceases to flaunt its extraordinary splendor.

Sweet Weekend in Dampalitan Island

Dampalitan Island

This is supposed to be a Cagbalete Island post but things didn't turn out the way we expected it. Armed with our camping gears and stocks of food, we headed to Mauban, Quezon port were boats are stationed heading to Cagbalete Island. Then we received the most awful news that day: ubos na ang bangka papunta sa Island. Yes. They run out of passenger boats that would transit tourist to the island. 

I Love Kuala Lumpur!

Petronas Towers

We travelled to Kuala Lumpur via Air Phil Express during Holy Week of this year. It was actually my first time spending Semana Santa outside the country. It felt weird because all my life either I spend it at home watching Biblical film or joining some sort of a retreat activity in a mission house.

Braving Pico de Lorro

Our hike to Pico de Loro was originally scheduled in February 2. But due to unavailability of lead attendees, Gia, our team organizer, decided to move it to March. Until one Facebook message from Katie changed the whole plan (ha-ha) and eventually decided to make it February 9. To make the long story short, nag-adik lang sa lakwatsa (he-he).

Philippine Hot Air Balloon Festival

Typhoon Crising just left the country Friday morning (February 22, 2013). But due to hanging amihan (northeast monsoon), rain continued to fell hard in Metro Manila and some part of Luzon including Subic, Pampanga.  

Hungry Kid

Taken last year during Scott Kelby Worldwide Photowalk in Marikina. A kid was caught up eating burger at the sidewalk nearby local cemetery.

Bolinao, Pangasinan

Church of St. James The Fortress

It was an invitation from a friend who chose to spend her birthday out of town. We went camping at Rock View Beach, Bolinao, Pangasinan, a private beach resort, which was a 6-7 hour drive from Metro Manila. The place was laid back and offered picture perfect view of rock formations and cool waves.   

Corregidor Island Day Trip

It was in the middle of May 2011 when we visited the historic Corregidor Island for a day tour. We were able to get discount vouchers in Sun Cruises at around Php1,000.00 through CashCash Pinoy. The day tour includes entrance fees, transportation and buffet lunch. 

Bulalo Point Turo-Turo Grill, Tagaytay

A trip to Tagaytay wouldn’t be complete without dining in a bulalo resto or eatery.  Before heading to Caleruega, Nasugbu, Batangas, I convinced my family to take our lunch in Bulalo Point Turo-Turo Grill. The interior may not be as fabulous as Leslie's but  the place is well-maintained and spacious. You can view the fantastic Taal lake from this place. 

Captivating Caleruega

Closer to nature. Closer to God.

If you’re looking for a place that offers nothing but genuine tranquillity, Caleruega is for you. It’s a prayer and meditation haven, a perfect venue for soul searching and spiritual renewal. The place captures invigorating landscapes, breath taking view of lush mountains and sacred visuals that are truly nourishing to mind, body and spirit.

Photowalk in Baguio City

Wright Park

Lush greens
Cool breeze
Stunning mountain views
Relaxing ambiance 

The perks of Baguio and these are just a few.

Surfing in San Juan, La Union

Photo credits to Elbert Malonzo

Surfing wasn’t exactly a part of my bucket list. I thought it was very difficult and "so so" ...but not until I experienced it myself. When I confirmed my attendance to La Union trip with my friends, I started searching the net for reviews and possible expenses. I also shopped for a new rash guard and proper board shorts (with a good garter grip! ha-ha) which are must-haves especially for newbies in surfing like me.

Chasing Clouds in Benguet, Mt. Pulag

I was very excited, and I must admit anxious, for this date to arrive. Surviving Mt. Pulag was something I thought would be excruciating. I had episodes of serious asthma attacks and had no idea if I would be able to go through the 4-5 hour trail. Mt. Pulag is Luzon’s highest mountain with 2,922 meters above sea level and with such information alone, I couldn’t help but ask myself, “kaya mo ba talaga?”