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TAMBAYAN CAPSULE HOSTEL AND BAR

In a wooden grand staircase passing through a prominent stained glass; a spacious lobby of a high ceiling adorned by a large swarovski crystal chandelier, who would have thought that we have entered a capsule hostel in Metro Manila. 

I have my own perception of how it feels to stay in a capsule hostel.  And actually, though I have been wanting to try out for mere curiosity, it wouldn’t happen.  It doesn’t interest me.

I find it weird to be sleeping in such a long, narrow space that resembles a coffin and prone to anxiety attack for the claustrophobics.  Perceptions change and I have come to the conclusion that it all depends on who you are with, and that interests may adjust.  I am no solo traveler after all. 

Across the Robinsons Malate Mall, the dangling electrical lines fronting this façade nevertheless did not obstruct the classy interiors of the building as peeked through the ­almost-all-glass-walls of the Tambayan Capsule Hostel and the al fresco bar at the second floor.
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SPEND THE NIGHT WITH THE TRAVELERS AT PINK MANILA HOSTEL

On a weekend, we usually go out, attend parties or go bar hopping where our movements are slowly dictated by the rhythm and loudness of the music that abounds, not to mention the overflowing cocktails and beers which consumption increases as the night turns into daybreak.

We oftentimes meet strangers on such party places.  But there is one party place devoid of loud music.  Only pure conversation, never-ending exchange of travel stories and current events’ opinion is present but the alcohol intake is a constant.  This is the scenario one Saturday night as we stayed in one of the famed hostels of Manila – Pink Manila Hostel.

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REVISIT: MANILA OCEAN PARK

My second visit to the Manila Ocean Park is complimentary of my stay at Hotel H2O Manila.  Unlike before, together with my family where we had limited viewing as the only available tickets are for the Trails to Antarctica and the Oceanarium, this time is different.  On my first visit, we went there just before the ticket booth closes.

This time, new attractions were given and we just have to be guided of the time set for the shows.  Aside from the Oceanarium, we experienced the Sharks and Ray Encounter, Jellies Exhibit, Sea Lion Show and the Symphony Evening Show.  All these in approximately six hours.
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THE WATER WORLD WEEKEND AT HOTEL H20 MANILA

Once upon a time, I envisioned a night where a large aquarium of the underwater marine life surrounds me while I sleep.  On one weekend, my desire was granted. 

Perched on a reclamation area of the Manila Bay, the hallways, grand loungers and reception area resembles a cruise ship.  It felt like experiencing a luxurious cruise while at Hotel H2O Manila. 

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THE NATIONAL MUSEUM OF THE PHILIPPINES | NATIONAL ART GALLERY

Asian and Philippine History is my forte. I have won several local and national quiz bees during high school on such topics aside from Physics Olympiad (geek!) which honed my capability to memorize and analyze information as read and given (Ok! Ako na! haha!).  Ask me some details now and I definitely won’t remember all.

My interest in history, culture and the arts have been enhanced through my travels.  A museum is and has always been an inevitable part of my itinerary when I wander.  The National Museum of the Philippines is by far the largest and has the most number of interesting finds. 
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QUIAPO, MANILA: FAITH, FOOD AND TRADE

There is beauty in chaos.  The streets filled of thievery and piracy, of wares unthinkable to be peddled, cultural properties of the country harbored, contrasting religious congregations co-exist and the birthplace of varied innovative cuisine is what the Old Downtown of Manila is today.

It was a Sunday afternoon.  The weather cooperated for this street photography session with my constant weekend travel buddies.  The destination: Quiapo District of Manila.
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It takes patience to be able to fully witness the grand presentation of the festival of festivals at the Aliw Theater Grounds near the CCP Complex.  The sweat, shoving, temper and selfishness of some spectators is a test in itself.  Fortunately, we were able to manage.

The Aliwan Fiesta is an annual event organized by the Manila Broadcasting Company (MBC) together with the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) and the cities of Manila and Pasay.  The fiesta is divided into three categories:  Cultural Street Dance Competition (main event), Float Parade and the Reyna ng Aliwan (Queen of Entertainment/Amusement) beauty pageant. 

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The Pasig River has lost its glory.  Foul odor permeating, garbage floating and informal settlers along the route are but some of the predicaments why most hesitate to take this only water-based transportation along the famed Pasig River.

Contrary to such notions, I have been wanting to experience firsthand the cruise along the Pasig River.  It has been part of the cinematography of several Filipino films and actors convincingly look satisfied, why shouldn’t I?

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“Is it the year of the goat or the wooden sheep? A goat and a sheep can never be interchanged, they are totally different.  But which one is correct?” 

This was the random conversation as we headed towards our dinner with other media friends at the Waterfront Manila Pavilion Hotel and Casino situated at United Nations Avenue, corner Ma. Orosa Street, Ermita, Manila.

What’s the resolution? I still don’t know but most declare it’s the year of the wooden sheep.  And so be it.
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Binondo, Manila, Philippines
Statistically, the Chinese holds the highest percentage of the world's population.  Their influence and culture has affected and transcend every continent in the world.  Back in my hometown, Tacloban City, I have a lot of friends who are of chinese descent and you'll admire them for their brilliance in the field of mathematics and of course, the hardwork and innovative skills that they possess.  Our downtown area is also dominated by businesses run by families of Chinese lineage.  In the Philippines, we cannot deny the fact that most of our successful entrepreneurs and businessmen are of Chinese blood.  It is from this realization that I am predicting that Mandarin would be a must-learn language in the near future.

Trade and commerce has been the main influence of China in the Philippines.  And I assume, it is applicable anywhere else where there are Chinese dwellers.  As they say, name the merchandise and the Chinese people have it.  Go to department stores, hardwares and even groceries and I assure you there is always something labeled as "Made in China".  

Before I write about my recent trip to Mainland China, I will first take you to the various Chinatowns of Southeast Asia, a proof that the Chinese culture and heritage is taking over a significant role in the world map. 

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I am a CPA-lawyer by profession and a full-time wanderer. My tsinelas (slippers) have been my constant companion in my quest to discover the world we live in. No matter which part of the world I am, though oftentimes mistaken of a different nationality, I am always proud to wear my slippers, a mark of a Filipino wanderer.

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