Going Places to GRW to... Going AvGeek!

Yes... This blog has been rebranded from Going Places and Going, Roaming and Wandering to GOING AVGEEK!

GOING AVGEEK is simply a "travelling and always on the move aviation geek!"

GOING is anything that is happening or on-going but more importantly, it is the best word describe travel and adventure to places while AVGEEK is short for aviation geek that refers to someone who is an enthusiast of aviation - everything about airplanes, airports and flying.

Going AvGeek is a share about going, roaming and wandering to places, aviation, travel, food and tourism on my perspective. 

It has been 5 years since my last post and I've been to a lot of places and have so much travel stories to tell. During my absence here at Blogger, I rebranded my travel blog and I have move my platform to other social media, hence, my long hiatus here. But now, I'm glad to tell you that this travel blog has continued and has more content to share as you can find me now other social media like YouTube, Instagram and Facebook. 

Find me here... Just click the link and don't forget to subscribe, like and share to get the latest from my content and help me grow too!

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I don't know when I will update here at blogger again but thank you for your continued support! And see you in Going AvGeek!

 

Laguna Wanderings

Roaming Laguna led me to the historical and film and television favorite setting, Magdalena and to the Tsinelas Capital of the Philippines, Liliw. I get to visit these two municipalities on my latest visit to this province that is situated on the southern shores of Laguna de Bay where it is named after. Known as the "Resort Capital of the Philippines" because of its numerous spring water resorts, I roamed Laguna for many times but this trip is more about appreciating its history, art, culture and local discovery. A different face of Laguna is what I saw on this trip yet still filled with adventures and journeys for a travelling feet. Roaming Laguna this time was an unusual but a delightful trip as I get to explore its other charms from the usual.

Roaming Laguna led me to this charming landmark of Liliw.

Magdalena

My best friend who is residing in Magdalena municipality of Laguna province invited me for a visit while she's on vacation in their hometown. I just meet her there as I have been there 3 years ago. This municipality is quite one of the farthest municipality of the province. You have to take a bus to Santa Cruz then hop on a jeepney to Magdalena for a total of 4 hour travel from Manila.

Santa Maria Magdalena Church or simply known as Magdalena Church is the main sight to visit in Magdalena. This is a Roman Catholic Church built during the Spanish colonial era in 1829. It is mainly made of sandstone and completely built in 1855. One of the biggest church that I saw yet in Laguna, unfortunately it was close during my visit. And so I failed to explore its inside architecture and just contented in its outside Baroque-style facade.

Magdalena Church.

The outside facade is mostly colored in gray sandstone - which made it look dull in appearance but extravagant in its massive built and height. The church is located in central town plaza with the municipal hall of Magdalena just across it. What also make this church special is that it holds a special relic for revolutionary leader, General Emilio Jacinto who said to have take refuge in the church's convent after a revolutionary fight encountered in Magdalena. Jacinto has been coined as Brains of Katipunan and has an honored monument in the municipality's plaza.

The municipality of Magdalena is said to be a favorite setting of local movie classics that made the town famous by the late actor Fernando Poe, Jr where he shot Santiago (1970) and Sanctuario (1974) in the town. A Robin Padilla and Sharon Cuneta starrer romantic comedy film Pagdating ng Panahon (2001), Emilio Aguinaldo biopic film, El Presidente (2012) and Chito Rono's Spirit Warriors: The Shortcut (2003) was also shot here. The most recent film shot in Magdalena was the biopic film Heneral Luna (2015) and TV series like Wild Flower (2017).

Magdalena is a sleepy town in the province of Laguna. It is quiet, clean and time is not always in a hurry. I would be glad to explore the other sights of this town in the future.

Close-up view for architecture appreciation of Magdalena Church.

So many Filipino movies have been shot inside and outside of Magdalena Church.

Liliw

Liliw is a 4th class municipality of the province of Laguna. It is popularly dubbed as Tsinelas Capital of the Philippines being tsinelas or slippers as the municipality's pride town product. In the main town, you will see a lot of slipper stores everywhere! It was hard to choose the right store to shop as most were quality slippers. They also sold quality shoes as well that can rival Marikina's own shoes products. I got my own pair of soles at Badong Foortwear. I love its design, quality and color plus its durability. Actually, I want to buy a lot shoes in Liliw since most of the shoes were truly in good quality and design!

Liliw Church also known as Saint John the Baptist Parish Church.

From the shopping of slippers and shoes, I my foot led to one of its main attraction site - Liliw Church. Saint John the Baptist Parish Church also known as Liliw Church is a Roman Catholic church known for its distinguish red bricked facade in baroque style architecture. Built in 1643, it was dedicated to Saint John the Baptist with a feast day celebrated every August 29. The red brick walls and columns of the church makes its striking appearance that is perfect for travel photography and architectural appreciation. 

Inside the church, you will feel its old yet rich cultural value. The high ceiling is colored white adorned with gold line accents and lamps. The altar is dominantly colored in gold while the side walls are predominantly in red brick walls. While the windows are colored glass of images of saints which gave the church a vibe of grandeur and vintage feel.

Interior corridor of Liliw Church.

Prayer candles at Liliw Church.

Lovely interiors of Liliw Church.

Close-up view of main altar. Feels grand...

Striking red bricks made up the whole building of Liliw Church. It is also its unique characteristic.

I recommend to buy quality slippers and shoes at Badong Footwear.

Shoes everywhere in Liliw!

Liliw - Tsinelas Capital of the Philippines!

Before I left Liliw Church, I did not just took a lot of souvenir photo of its beautiful facade but I also made prayer while lighting colorful prayer candles. I made a thankful prayer that I made it here in Laguna not just to get a good catch-up with my long-time friend but also I had a great time exploring the other side of the Laguna province.

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How to reach Magdalena.

Ride a JAC Liner bus to Santa Cruz - Capital of Laguna in Buendia, Pasay Terminal. Travel time is 4 hours and fare is 140PHP as of January 2018. When you alight at the terminal, just cross the street and catch a jeepney ride with a signboard Magdalena. You also have the option to take a special tricycle ride to Magdalena from Santa Cruz but fare is expensive yet faster than jeepney ride. Travel time from Santa Cruz to Magdalena via jeepney is 45 minutes and via tricycle is 30 minutes. 

How to reach Liliw.

From Magdalena, take a jeepney at the plaza bound for Liliw. Travel time is 15 minutes and fare is 000 as of January 2018. The return trip to Magdalena is via taking a jeepney ride bound to Magdalena at Liliw's town jeepney terminal.

Colors of Zamboanga

It may have been a brave and bold move to visit this city that is geographically located in Zamboanga del Sur but governing independently as a city, because it is tainted by media generalization of being an unsafe place due to its relation to terrorists hideout and bombing. Much more brave and bold move to spend choose it as your birthday trip and spend your summer vacation there. But come on, is there literally a safer place now? I believe caution is what more needed when visiting any place. As an open-minded traveler, I dare you to follow my move.   

My mom was the number one person who is against my visit to Zamboanga. What she meant is that what kind of thing that got inside my mind that I want to spend my birthday trip in the city along with my best friends! I just laugh. I just don't want adventure. I want something different this time for my birthday. And I think this trip was kinda dare - even my friends who joined me in this trip felt a little apprehensive about this. I want to prove something about Zamboanga. And the best thing to do it to see and experience it!

Vene ya aqui na Zamboanga!

And so I pushed thru with this "brave and bold move" trip to Zamboanga. Actually, Zamboanga feels like home to me. I can fairly understood the dialect Chavacano which is widely spoken in the city as my mother's tongue dialect is Chavacano de Cavite. So getting around, asking directions and buying something is easy for me. But do not fret, English and Tagalog is widely spoken and understood as well even Bisaya dialect.

Just like the colorful sail of vinta (traditional boats) that Zamboanga is known for, I want to discover what colors of this city are offering. I begin with color Green in Merloquet Falls. It is located in Barangay Vitali and Sibulao which is 2 hours away from the city where you have to take a mandatory habal-habal ride for 30 minutes upon reaching the drop-off point. Once at the jump point, you have to take 334 steps on concrete staircase down to a ravine into the waterfall area. Upon reaching the ground of ravine, the loud splash of water from the river flow and lush green forests will greet you. As you shift your view in following the source of river flow, you will be astound to the scenery of Merloquet Falls - a 3 tier waterfalls that is dominantly colored green by its surrounding of lush vegetation and forests.

From the visitors level of viewpoint, Merloquet Falls can be seen as a 2-tier waterfall yet it is originally a 3-tier waterfall. The first tier at the top is hidden from the view as you have to do a hike on top of the 2nd tier to see it. At the 2nd tier has two sections - from left is a strong fall of water current and from right is a calm and slow fall of water current - this feature uniquely defines Merloquet Falls among the waterfalls I saw around the country. What I also like in the 2nd tier is a stage-like area where you can either walk among the rocks, bath on small pools or get a natural shower while meditating or just playing around. The 3rd tier flows into the river. The 334 steps going up is tiring for a couch potato like me but it was worth it as my natural birthday cake on my special day!

The iconic airport of Zamboanga.

Seeing GREEN at Merloquet Falls.

A tiring noon led us to an afternoon stroll on probably the famous "plaza" in Zamboanga City. Paseo del Mar is the public promenade and gathering area in the city which faces the seafront. People stroll here and probably hang out here every afternoon up to sundown as this public square is a good recreational area for public visits. Not it only faces the sea but it also has numerous restaurants, coffee shops, eateries and bars for every visitors convenience. We tried a famous merienda slash dessert in the city called Knickerbocker. At first I thought it is similar to the familiar halo-halo dessert but the difference is that it uses fresh fruits like apple, mango, pineapple and watermelon plus jellies. It is completed by condensed milk and top with scoops of strawberry ice cream which makes it creamier and filing. For me, its not that to much sweet like the conventional halo-halo but a creamy and refreshing sundae that is a must-eat when in Asia's latin city! 

In Paseo del Mar, as afternoon progresses to evening the sun sets into the sea. But before sundown, the sunset bathed Paseo del Mar in color Yellow. The seafront paseo became more dramatic with the basking glow of sunset yellow that plays with the moving shadows of the people in the seafront promenade. Another color of Zamboanga has been discovered.

Junction drop-off marker of Barangay Vitali to Merloquet Falls.

Knickerbocker at Paseo del Mar.

By night time, restaurant bars and cafes along Paseo del Mar started to become active. In one of the restaurant bars, my travel buddies spend my birthday dinner over a live band singing one of my favorite OPM song - Por Que - popularized by Zambonguena band Maldita in 2011. It was a memorable acoustic birthday night! 

The following day, we went to Santa Cruz Island to experience National Georgraphic 2017 top 21 beaches in the world - Pink Beach. As the name of the beach suggests, pink is the color of Zamboanga here. We had an advance booking to visit the island and the beach, a day prior. This is a requirement by the tourism office and their office are found in Paseo del Mar premises. From the Paseo del Mar docking port, travel time to Santa Cruz Island is 7 minutes via a rented boat. Santa Cruz Island is composed of two islands - Little Santa Cruz Island and Greater Santa Cruz Island. Great Santa Cruz Island is the popular destination between the two since this is where are the Pink Beach is located and the facilities here are more developed. While Little Santa Cruz Island is prohibited from visitors by the Philippine Navy and Armed Forces.  Both islands are protected landscape and seascape by the Philippine government.

Seeing YELLOW at Paseo del Mar.

Nightlife in Asia's latin city!

Pink Beach is one amazing unique beach! Wide, clean and scenic, it is guaranteed to quench your mood for summer. Pink Beach is actually a white sand beach but it has a tinge of light pink in color because of pulverized Red Organ Pipe Coral that mixed within the white sand. On a closer look, you'll see the crushed red coral is mixed with the white sand that collectively becomes pink on the whole beach area. The pink hue of the beach becomes stronger especially when the sand crashes with the waves of the water on the shore.   

They said it is also dangerous to visit the island because of the labels that Zamboanga earned from the social media. But during my birthday trip there, I didn't feel threaten or danger in the island. I felt more secure as well with the presence of military outpost guarding in the area. So I frolic in the beach taking numerous scenic shot of Santa Cruz Island while my friends went into good swim. The only regret we  had is that we didn't try the tour into the lagoon and community area of the island where we can experience the culture of local tribe who were inhabiting the island and try a Vinta boat ride. Vinta is a famous symbol of Zamboanga City.

Seeing PINK...

Pink Beach - 2017 National Georgraphic's Top 21 beaches in the world!

That night, we went to BLOC1 bar, to celebrate my 2nd night of  birthday trip in Zamboanga City. The dominant neon blue lights that scatters everywhere at BLOC1 gives off the Blue hue of the city. BLOC1 is located in Tetuan district of Zamboanga which is quite far from downtown but nonetheless a loud party place to celebrate. Here, I got to taste what's nightlife in Zamboanga. Loaded with booze and food for the night, we danced away to the cool sounds and party music played by their resident DJ. There's no curfew in the city but bars here closes as early as 2 in the morning unlike in Manila which goes til 4am! And on security, the unusual is there 3 security personnel at the bar - a bouncer, a security guard and a military on-duty. After this night's celebration, we went home early.

Birthday celebration while seeing all colored BLUE in BLOC1.

The famous Tree House of Pasonanca Park.

We started early in the morning to discover the Green colors in Pasonanca Park, a public park that is 15 minutes away from downtown. In this park, you'll find the famous Tree House of Zamboanga which can be rented for accommodation. Other sights to see in the park are aviary, butterfly garden, boys and girls scout camp. And lots of greenery spaces of tall trees, grasses, flowering plants and shrubs.

In Canelar Barter Trade Center, colors of the city sprouts everywhere in its textile market. Endless rows of fabrics of various colors and designs are being sold here. It is also where you bought pasalubong (souvenirs) and cheap goods like chocolate, cookies and bags from Indonesia and Malaysia (Zamboanga is also a trading port near these countries) to bring home. It is 7 to 10 minutes away from Pueblo (downtown).

One of the sights in Pasonanca Park.

Los colores de Zamboanga in Canelar Barter Trade Center.

I find White color in Metropolitan Cathderal of Immaculate Concepcion which also known as Zamboanga Cathedral. The church is a modern structure right in the heart of Zamboanga that strikingly bathed in white color. The white imposing structure is the seat of Archdiocese of Zamboanga. It is one of the biggest church I've seen in my travels to Mindanao.

Then in Fort Pilar, I found color Orange as the last color to discover in Zamboanga. The orange tinge walls of the fortress dominates the whole structure from the ground up to its overlooking facade. We failed to look into its museum but we had a beautiful scenic viewing of the sea and the city from its overlooking facade. Fort Pilar is a military defense fortress built during the Spanish colonization of the city. It is originally known as Real Fuerza de Nuestra Senora del Pilar de Zaragoza (Royal Fort of Our Lady of the Pillar of Zaragoza) in which on its outside eastern wall a Marian shrine is dedicated to Our Lady of the Pillar. Today it is a regional museum of the National Museum of the Philippines.

Find the WHITE color in Metropolitan Cathderal of Immaculate Concepcion.

Seeing ORANGE color in Fort Pilar.

Adios Zamboanga!

Zamboanga is colorful. Asia's latin city for its Spanish creole widely spoken dialect Chavacano as one of the huge Spanish influences in its history and culture. Yet harmoniously living alongside with the culture and people of Muslim and Badjao. It has full of wonders to discover its colors in its sights like the pink of Sta. Cruz Island, green of Merloquet Falls and orange of Fort Pilar are some. Yet it still tainted black by terrorist threat and sensationalized media news that I wish will end soon. But all you need when you visit the city is caution and open-mindedness - just like in every trip you embark. See Zamboanga in its other side... It's colorful.


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*How to reach Merloquet Falls.
Ride a van that plies to Barangay Vitali at Gateway Mall van terminal. The terminal is outside the mall building. Be sure to ride the van passes thru Barangay Vitali as there are other vans going somewhere else in that terminal. We almost rode a wrong one. Better ask the driver himself or the dispatcher for the correct van. Travel time is 1.5 to 2 hours and fare is 100PHP per person as of March 2017. Ask the driver to alight you at the drop-off of habal-habal terminal at Barangay Vitali. PNP Station is your marker at the drop-off point. Hire a habal-habal that will take you to Barangay Sibulao where the waterfalls is located. Note that habal-habal (2 wheel motorcycle which can accomodate 2 person) is the only public transportation to the waterfalls. Travel time from the terminal to the waterfalls jump point is 20-30 minutes and fare is 50-70PHP per person as of March 2017. At the drop point to the falls, you need to register and pay 5PHP entrance per person. A concrete staircase of 334 steps will lead you down to the falls for a 10-15 minute hike. Going back is still the same route. Just asked your habal-habal driver to wait for you and ask to drop you off to the highway where vans bound to Zamboanga City passes thru or to the van terminal that plies back to the city.

*How to reach Sta. Cruz Island.
Prior reservation is a must before visiting the island - like a day before the trip. Visit first the booking office at Paseo del Mar. The Department of Tourism office is also in Paseo del Mar for other inquiries. You must accomplish two booking forms with information provided on your visit to Santa Cruz Island. They will get your number in order to remind of your trip to the island the following day which is 30 minutes before your agreed departure time. Boat rental to the island is 1000PHP good for 10 person maximum and rate is back and forth trip. There's an entrance fee of 20PHP and terminal fee of 5PHP per passenger. A mandatory cottage rental is 100PHP good for a maximum of 6 person. During our visit, we don't have a military escort on the boat going to and leaving the island which was accustom and experience of other visitors, however in the island there is a post station of Philippine Police and Military Army. It is safe to visit the island. Visit to the island only is strictly for day trip only from 7am to 2pm as overnight trip is not allowed so maximize your visit by leaving at 2pm. Please note also that there are no establishment and stores in the island except for restrooms for shower and cloth changing. So bring your own food as this is allowed - just keep the trashes to the designated bins.

*How to reach Paseo del Mar. 
Hire a tricycle in the city and tell the driver to alight you to Paseo del Mar. Ask the fare first before riding as the standard rate per person is 9PHP as of March 2017.
 
*Accomodation in Zamboanga City. 
Cityinn Hotel
Governor Alvarez Street corner La Purisima Street, Zamboanga City
Telephone No: (062)955-4058/0936-6088777 (TM)/0947-7615734 (Smart)
Email: cityinnzam@gmail.com

Now Boarding

Now Boarding are my roaming stories to places and cities around the globe. Read my travel stories and guides to various countries that has so far I've set my travelling feet to...

• Thailand
• China
• Vietnam
• USA
• Guam
• Hawaii
• San Francisco
• Los Angeles
• Singapore
• Hong Kong
• Macau
• Taiwan

The Heart of San Francisco... Story soon.

Destination: Philippines

Philippines -the "Pearl of the Orient" is an archipelago of 7, 100 plus islands located in South East Asia. It is composed of 81 provinces in which I plan to visit at least half of it - 41 to meet the middle. I've just finished this travel goal last March 2018! Now I'm 41/81 of the Philippines! And planning to explore a few more province soon.

Read my roaming stories, travel experiences, guide itineraries and reviews around the provinces of my beloved and more fun country...

• Cavite
• Iloilo
• Laguna
• Benguet
• Cebu
• Oriental Mindoro
• Aklan
• Davao del Sur
• Rizal
• Bohol
• Pangasinan
• Batangas
• Guimaras
• Mountain Province
• Ifugao
• Palawan
• Zambales
• Aurora
• Albay
• Surigao del Norte
• Ilocos Norte
• Ilocos Sur
• Camiguin
• Misamis Oriental
• Nueva Ecija
• Siquijor
• Negros Oriental
• Surigao del Sur
• Davao del Norte
• Negros Occidental
• Capiz
• Leyte
• Biliran
• Samar
• Zamboanga del Sur
• Bataan
• Zamboanga del Norte
• Batanes
• Lanao del Norte
• Cagayan
• Masbate
• Catanduanes

Negros Occidentals's Sweet Surprises.

Interviewed by The Soul Explorer

Last, April 2016, I received an interview request by Marco of The Soul Explorer for his "Travel Blogger of the Month" feature to be published on his blog. And I gladly answer the interview questions which I found interesting and useful so that readers and travel-seekers would know more something about me. 

Now, I'm sharing the interview published here in my travel blog, so my readers may also have know more about me as the writer behind Going Places.

******

Hello guys! Today’s blog post is our next travel blogger of the month. He has been traveling since he was 7 years old.  Yes! You read it right! His mother brought him in her various trips abroad and many places. And since then, he became a travel addict.

I am glad to introduce our blogger of the month is, drum roll please… Ian, the author of Going Places.

Below are the travel tips and travel experiences from Ian.

Q and A with Pinoy Travel Freak
1. What is your purpose of travelling?
My purpose is mainly to live out my life motto of “travel is an experience of a lifetime”. Travel is an opportunity not just to go places but also a good way to experience the best of life can offer. Travelling is a better way for me to learn the realities of life, discover the cultures surrounding us and how beautiful our country is - which by the way; it is indeed more fun in the Philippines!

2. Do you travel solo? Couple? Or in a group?
I always travel in group because it is always fun with others and travel moments are best shared when you traveled with friends and loved ones. I haven’t experience travelling solo yet.

3. How often do you travel?
In a year, at least 5 to 8 times but the concentration of my travels is during Summer since the weather in the country is good for local travel. Summertime coincides not just the start of my travelling season but also my birthday trips as my birth month falls on the first month Summer which is March.

I fall in love with Camiguin on my Birthday Trip 2015.

4. What would be the best destinations for a solo traveler, for a couple, for a group or with family and friends?
I haven’t experience solo travelling but I can recommend 5 best destinations for a couple, for a group or with family and friends which I have been to.

a) Thailand – It is best for both first –timers and groups because Thailand is cheap and affordable yet a country very rich in places to see, food to taste and culture to experience.

b) Camiguin – You will fall in love with this island province because it’s gorgeous sceneries and quiet atmosphere are romantic and at the same time fun and exciting.

c) Vietnam – There so many things to see and to experience in Vietnam especially when you go out of its capital city. It is also very cheap to travel around Vietnam. No need to be a big spender because if you have enough money you can entirely travel and explore the whole country in 2 weeks!

d) Zambales – The beautiful coves of Zambales which mainly caters to campers is a great way to bond with family, friends and loved ones as bonfire by night let’s you share activities that don’t need so much gadgets to be entertain. Plus sceneries of mountain ranges and beaches are superb backdrops!

e) Albay – Adventurous at heart will surely love all the outdoor activities of the province. But if you prefer a relaxing and calming activity, simply admiring the beauty of Mayon Volcano will surely do satisfy you.

Best day-off ever until now... My day-off trip to Anilao, Mabini, Batangas.

5. Give at least 5 travel tips to our readers.
a) Research the place that you are going to visit by reading travel blogs and asking queries to the person who actually travelled on the place you want to visit. Research will help you a lot in budgeting, accommodation, itineraries, timetables and sites that are must-see in the place.

b) Take a time off from social media and connection to your urban life. You wouldn’t be able to savor to the fullest the new place and the new experience that is being expose to you if you keep on tweeting and posting a shout and check-in just to be keep everyone updated and be on the hashtag ATM mode.

c) Stay safe in anything you do in travel. Be aware of accident prone areas and activities that might cause injuries. And don’t touch any marine animal or corals when snorkeling. Be aware of poisonous marine animals that seemed harmless like jellyfish, sea urchin, lionfish and stone fish.

d) Be aware of the time! Always keep in mind that time is very essential in every aspect of travel. From flights, bus schedules, days of stay, frequency of transportations, weather changes up to distances of one place to another, time always play a vital role in travel.

e) Always check the weather to the place that you are visiting on your target date of travel because bad weather definitely spoils your once in a lifetime trip.

6. What are your 3 memorable travel destinations and why? (please do share your best photos)
a) Bohol – Aside from being my first time in Bohol and experiencing its haven of natural beauty, this destination was my first ever birthday trip in which I actually travelled on my birth date.  I have never been so happy than doing my one great passion in life on your special day!  It was an experience I will never forget! My birthday trip to Bohol also started my yearly tradition of having a yearly birthday trip on my birthday day.

b) Beijing, China
– It was a dream destination to me ever since it was announced as the host of 2008 Summer Olympics. It is not just a historical trip but it also let me appreciate China, the Chinese people and its rich culture. It is also a trip wherein I carefully planned a very hands-on and do-it-yourself style of travel which I successfully pull-off. I was able to do DIY trip to the Great Wall of China with only the help of printed guides and travel blogs sans language barrier. But what also makes it memorable is that my trip to China was one of my travels that I really work hard for it to happen. Imagine, I spend two years saving money to fund my trip to China!

c) Anilao, Mabini, Batangas – This is one of the destinations that I truly enjoyed group travel with friends. When my friends at work happened to have a schedule of same day-off, we didn’t let pass the chance to have a great bonding time by having a “best day-off ever” in Anilao! It was fun and memorable because on this trip we get a chance to know things about each other and about ourselves as well. What makes this destination memorable the most is we get a chance to establish a long lasting friendship in our circle. This is one of my trips that I truly experienced, the travel thought – “As with any journey, who you travel with can be more important than your destination”

On my Birthday Trip 2012, I climbed the Great Wall of China!

7. Who is your ideal traveler? Why?
My mom, Gloria C. Poral. Why? Because she is the true viajera at heart in our family. Since, I was 7 years-old, she already brought me on her various trips abroad and she has been to many places before I get into travel world. She introduce to me to the travel world at a young age! I think this was the reason why I grew up as a travel addict! But I admire her most for having always a thirst for adventure and for discovering the world around her.

I also looked up to Chyng Reyes of No spam, no virus, no kiddin!. Her travel photos are superb and travel tips are helpful. But I also love the way she tells her travel stories which were fun, adventurous and entertaining.

To the owner of Going Places, it is my privilege to feature a travel blogger like you. And, for that, I'd like to thank you for giving me a chance to let me share your tips and experiences through this site.

******

Marco, its a pleasure to be feature on your travel blog. I also enjoyed reading the interview again and again. Guys, do follow him too! Marco has nice a nice travel blog too... Click - The Soul Explorer.

b) Beijing, China – It was a dream destination to me ever since it was announced as the host of 2008 Summer Olympics. It is not just a historical trip but it also let me appreciate China, the Chinese people and its rich culture. It is also a trip wherein I carefully planned a very hands-on and do-it-yourself style of travel which I successfully pull-off. I was able to do DIY trip to the Great Wall of China with only the help of printed guides and travel blogs sans language barrier. But what also makes it memorable is that my trip to China was one of my travels that I really work hard for it to happen. Imagine, I spend two years saving money to fund my trip to China!

c) Anilao, Mabini, Batangas – This is one of the destinations that I truly enjoyed group travel with friends. When my friends at work happened to have a schedule of same day-off, we didn’t let pass the chance to have a great bonding time by having a “best day-off ever” in Anilao! It was fun and memorable because on this trip we get a chance to know things about each other and about ourselves as well. What makes this destination memorable the most is we get a chance to establish a long lasting friendship in our circle. This is one of my trips that I truly experienced, the travel thought – “As with any journey, who you travel with can be more important than your destination”

7. Who is your ideal traveler? Why?

My mom, Gloria C. Poral. Why? Because she is the true viajera at heart in our family. Since, I was 7 years-old, she already brought me on her various trips abroad and she has been to many places before I get into travel world. She introduce to me to the travel world at a young age! I think this was the reason why I grow up as a travel addict! But I admire her most for having always a thirst for adventure and for discovering the world around her.

I also looked up to Chyng Reyes of No spam, no virus, no kiddin!. Her travel photos are superb and travel tips are helpful. But I also love the way she tells her travel stories which were fun, adventurous and entertaining. 

To the owner of Going Places, it is my privilege to feature a travel blogger like you. And, for that, I'd like to thank you for giving me a chance to let me share your tips and experiences through this site.

- See more at: http://www.marcosoulexplorer.com/#sthash.2NBibCT6.dpuf

b) Beijing, China – It was a dream destination to me ever since it was announced as the host of 2008 Summer Olympics. It is not just a historical trip but it also let me appreciate China, the Chinese people and its rich culture. It is also a trip wherein I carefully planned a very hands-on and do-it-yourself style of travel which I successfully pull-off. I was able to do DIY trip to the Great Wall of China with only the help of printed guides and travel blogs sans language barrier. But what also makes it memorable is that my trip to China was one of my travels that I really work hard for it to happen. Imagine, I spend two years saving money to fund my trip to China!

c) Anilao, Mabini, Batangas – This is one of the destinations that I truly enjoyed group travel with friends. When my friends at work happened to have a schedule of same day-off, we didn’t let pass the chance to have a great bonding time by having a “best day-off ever” in Anilao! It was fun and memorable because on this trip we get a chance to know things about each other and about ourselves as well. What makes this destination memorable the most is we get a chance to establish a long lasting friendship in our circle. This is one of my trips that I truly experienced, the travel thought – “As with any journey, who you travel with can be more important than your destination”

7. Who is your ideal traveler? Why?

My mom, Gloria C. Poral. Why? Because she is the true viajera at heart in our family. Since, I was 7 years-old, she already brought me on her various trips abroad and she has been to many places before I get into travel world. She introduce to me to the travel world at a young age! I think this was the reason why I grow up as a travel addict! But I admire her most for having always a thirst for adventure and for discovering the world around her.

I also looked up to Chyng Reyes of No spam, no virus, no kiddin!. Her travel photos are superb and travel tips are helpful. But I also love the way she tells her travel stories which were fun, adventurous and entertaining. 

To the owner of Going Places, it is my privilege to feature a travel blogger like you. And, for that, I'd like to thank you for giving me a chance to let me share your tips and experiences through this site.

- See more at: http://www.marcosoulexplorer.com/#sthash.2NBibCT6.dpuf

b) Beijing, China – It was a dream destination to me ever since it was announced as the host of 2008 Summer Olympics. It is not just a historical trip but it also let me appreciate China, the Chinese people and its rich culture. It is also a trip wherein I carefully planned a very hands-on and do-it-yourself style of travel which I successfully pull-off. I was able to do DIY trip to the Great Wall of China with only the help of printed guides and travel blogs sans language barrier. But what also makes it memorable is that my trip to China was one of my travels that I really work hard for it to happen. Imagine, I spend two years saving money to fund my trip to China!

c) Anilao, Mabini, Batangas – This is one of the destinations that I truly enjoyed group travel with friends. When my friends at work happened to have a schedule of same day-off, we didn’t let pass the chance to have a great bonding time by having a “best day-off ever” in Anilao! It was fun and memorable because on this trip we get a chance to know things about each other and about ourselves as well. What makes this destination memorable the most is we get a chance to establish a long lasting friendship in our circle. This is one of my trips that I truly experienced, the travel thought – “As with any journey, who you travel with can be more important than your destination”

7. Who is your ideal traveler? Why?

My mom, Gloria C. Poral. Why? Because she is the true viajera at heart in our family. Since, I was 7 years-old, she already brought me on her various trips abroad and she has been to many places before I get into travel world. She introduce to me to the travel world at a young age! I think this was the reason why I grow up as a travel addict! But I admire her most for having always a thirst for adventure and for discovering the world around her.

I also looked up to Chyng Reyes of No spam, no virus, no kiddin!. Her travel photos are superb and travel tips are helpful. But I also love the way she tells her travel stories which were fun, adventurous and entertaining. 

To the owner of Going Places, it is my privilege to feature a travel blogger like you. And, for that, I'd like to thank you for giving me a chance to let me share your tips and experiences through this site.

- See more at: http://www.marcosoulexplorer.com/#sthash.2NBibCT6.dpuf

c) Vietnam – There so many things to see and to experience in Vietnam especially when you go out of its capital city. It is also very cheap to travel around Vietnam. No need to be a big spender because if you have enough money you can entirely travel and explore the whole country in 2 weeks!

d) Zambales – The beautiful coves of Zambales which mainly caters to campers is a great way to bond with family, friends and loved ones as bonfire by night let’s you share activities that don’t need so much gadgets to be entertain. Plus sceneries of mountain ranges and beaches are superb backdrops!

e) Albay – Adventurous at heart will surely love all the outdoor activities of the province. But if you prefer a relaxing and calming activity, simply admiring the beauty of Mayon Volcano will surely do satisfy you. 

5. Give at least 5 travel tips to our readers. 

a) Research the place that you are going to visit by reading travel blogs and asking queries to the person who actually travelled on the place you want to visit. Research will help you a lot in budgeting, accommodation, itineraries, timetables and sites that are must-see in the place.

b) Take a time off from social media and connection to your urban life. You wouldn’t be able to savor to the fullest the new place and the new experience that is being expose to you if you keep on tweeting and posting a shout and check-in just to be keep everyone updated and be on the hashtag ATM mode.

c) Stay safe in anything you do in travel. Be aware of accident prone areas and activities that might cause injuries. And don’t touch any marine animal or corals when snorkeling. Be aware of poisonous marine animals that seemed harmless like jellyfish, sea urchin, lionfish and stone fish.

d) Be aware of the time! Always keep in mind that time is very essential in every aspect of travel. From flights, bus schedules, days of stay, frequency of transportations, weather changes up to distances of one place to another, time always play a vital role in travel.

e) Always check the weather to the place that you are visiting on your target date of travel because bad weather definitely spoils your once in a lifetime trip.

6. What are your 3 memorable travel destinations and why? (please do share your best photos)

a) Bohol – Aside from being my first time in Bohol and experiencing its haven of natural beauty, this destination was my first ever birthday trip in which I actually travelled on my birth date.  I have never been so happy than doing my one great passion in life on your special day!  It was an experience I will never forget! My birthday trip to Bohol also started my yearly tradition of having a yearly birthday trip on my birthday day.

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