Thank You 2014! Let's Bring it on 2015!

2014 is my most memorable year yet, personal or otherwise. But before this year comes to a close, let me THANK YOU for all the love and support you've been giving me. Thank you for letting me become part of your lives, for trusting me and for allowing me to share with you my travel experiences.

Rediscovering Manila with Diamond Rent a Car Service

I always believe that Manila is such a charming city. Old houses and churches, historical sites and great food are just some of the reasons why I love Manila. For tourists and adventure seekers, Manila is definitely not a place to be avoided. There are a many things to do and activities to enjoy in Manila that keeps me fascinated. I will never get tired of rediscovering it again and again.

HOSTELS IN MAKATI: MNL Boutique Hostel Manila

Traveling on a set budget, me and my friend decided to stay for a night at MNL Boutique Hostel for us to catch our early morning flight to Kalibo, a few weeks ago. Staying in a hostel is not only a cheaper alternative to hotels but also a great way to meet other fellow travelers and make new friends. I've never stayed in a hostel before, so why not I give it a try?

RESTAURANTS AT UP TOWN CENTER: Boon Tong Kee

Boon Tong Kee is a popular casual dining family restaurant in Singapore. It was started by Mr. Thian Boon Hua as a small chicken rice stall in Singapore's Chinatown in 1979 and has gained popularity over the years. They are now here in the Philippines with branches located at SM Mall of Asia, Power Plant Mall, UP Town Center, and Tomas Morato. It's an ideal dining place for families and big groups wanting to have a taste of delicious Singaporean cuisines.

Aguinaldo Shrine Christmas Lights and Sound Show 2014 in Kawit, Cavite (Schedule and How to Get There)

This Christmas season, if you're planning to visit the province of Cavite, please drop by the historic town of Kawit to watch the nightly "Christmas Lights and Sound Show" at the Emilio Aguinaldo Shrine. It opened last December 22nd and will last until January 4, 2015. The shows are at 6:30 PM, 7:30 PM and 8:30 PM with each show lasting for about 30 minutes.

Christmas in the Philippines: Maytinis Festival in Kawit Cavite

More than a dozen floats paraded tonight for the annual Maytinis Festival in the historic town of Kawit in the province of Cavite. Maytinis Festival is a well-loved Caviteño tradition held every Christmas Eve that showcases a dramatic recapping of St. Joseph and Virgin Mary's search for a place to stay in Bethlehem. It also features unique Filipino translation of the ancient biblical scenes of the history of mankind's salvation from the Old to the New Testaments depicted in dazzling floats with characters portrayed by Kawiteños.

Special Non-working Holiday in NCR (Metro Manila) during the Visit of Pope Francis in the Philippines on January 2015

Malacanang Palace issued Proclamation No. 936, s. 2014, declaring January 15, 16 and 19, 2015 (Thursday, Friday and Monday) as a special non-working holiday in the National Capital Region (NCR)in view of the visit of the Pope, the Head of State of the Vatican City. The proclamation was signed in the City of Manila, on the 22nd day of December 2014.

VIDEO: Breathtaking Batanes

Kapian kapa nu Dius! Here's a video of some of the places, sights and things I did during my recent visit to Batanes last December 10-15, 2014. For the 3rd time, Batanes didn't fail to amaze me with its astonishing beauty, sumptuous food and friendly Ivatan people. It was a celebration of a wonderful moment; an awesome and memorable adventure!

WHERE TO STAY: Corregidor Inn, Resort and Restaurant

After the very enriching Corregidor Island day tour, we went back to Corregidor Inn to check-in. We were booked for a night as we wanted to experience and explore more what Corregidor island has to offer. The Corregidor Inn (sometimes called the Corregidor Hotel and Resort) is a 31-room Hotel and Restaurant that offers comfortable and lovely accommodations set on an old building perched on top of a hill at the heart of the island. This quaint and charming hotel offers room accommodations with private facilities that are clean and well maintained amidst natural setting and tropical ambiance.

The Top Five Hiking Destinations in Asia

Asia is a prime travel destination, especially for the adventurous hiker! We cover the top five Asian treks which guarantee you a breathtaking experience. So, get your walking boots and your travel insurance (better safe than sorry on that exotic trip) - let's go!

WHAT TO DO: Corregidor Day Tour via Sun Cruises

Corregidor Island is considered as "one of the country's last military bastions," that served as one of the harbor defenses of Manila Bay during the Second World War II. Located in the province of Cavite, it has been declared as a protected area and is one of the most-visited tourist destinations in the Philippines. Last November 6-7, 2014, I was fortunate to visit the island for an overnight adventure courtesy of Sun Cruises.

BLOG GIVEAWAY: Win a Nikon Coolpix S8200 Camera from Nikon Philippines and Pinoy Adventurista!

Because ’tis the season for gift giving, Pinoy Adventurista in partnership with Nikon Philippines is giving away one (1) Nikon Coolpix S8200 camera to one (1) lucky Instagram user! It's so easy to join, just upload one (1) of your favorite travel photos on Instagram and add the caption "I want to win a Nikon Coolpix S8200 camera! Follow @OfficialNikonPH and @PinoyAdventurista to know more! #IamNikon #IamPinoyAdventurista" and then tag/mention 3 of your friends.

Vigan City was named as one of the New 7 Wonders Cities

Vigan City, the capital of Ilocos Sur has been selected through an online global voting as one of the New 7 Wonders Cities. The list of the New 7 Wonders Cities was announced in Dubai, United Arab Emirates by Bernard Weber, Founder and President of the New7Wonders via a YouTube announcement on December 8, 2014 at around 3:00 AM, Manila time.

BLOG GIVEAWAY: Win a Pair of Skechers Go Walk 2 plus Premium Items!

Since I am very delighted with my experience using my Skechers Go Walk 2 during my recent travels, I am partnering with Skechers Philippines in giving away one pair from their very comfortable Go Walk 2 line. I want you to also experience how comfortable and easy to use the Skechers Go Walk 2 on your travels or even on your daily routine. It's so easy to join!

Quiapo: Pista ng Itim na Nazareno 2015 Schedule of Activities, Procession Route, Safety Tips and Reminders

The Feast of the Black Nazarene is one of the most attended religious gathering in the catholic church. It is an annual event held every January 9. The image which is considered miraculous by Filipino Catholics is brought in procession to commemorate the Traslascion or the transfer of the image of the Black Nazarene to its shrine in Quiapo Church, Manila.

BAGUIO PANAGBENGA FESTIVAL 2015 Schedule of Activities, How To Get There, Things To Do and Where To Stay

Baguio City's Panagbenga Flower Festival is one of the most attended festivals in the Philippines held annually in the City of Pines, Baguio City. Now on its 20th year with the theme "Across 20 Years of Blossoming Together," it will run for 5 weeks starting February 1, 2015. It is a festival to celebrate not only the "season of blooming" of flowers but also the booming economy and prosperity of the City of Baguio. Several events and activities are lined up for the Panagbenga Festival 2015 including the Grand Street Dancing Parade, Drum and Lyre Band Competition, Baguio Blooms Exhibition and the much-awaited Grand Flower Float Parade!

Travel in Style and Comfort with Skechers Go Walk 2

Whenever I travel, I always do walking tours around the place I visit. It's actually one of my favorite activities on every travel! I just love walking and wandering around while savoring the place's different interesting sights, attractions and tourist spots, trying out the local delicacies and interacting with the people around the community.

San Antonio Resort in Roxas City, Capiz, "An Ideal Place to Relax and Savor Roxas City's Fresh Seafood"

Roxas City is dubbed as the "Seafood Capital of the Philippines." With several flights coming from Manila, it is the main gateway to the province of Capiz as well to it's tourist spots and attractions. If you're planning a visit and wondering where to stay in Roxas City, there are a number of hotels and resorts that you could choose from. One of the most popular resorts in Roxas City is San Antonio Resort located along Baybay Beach which is just a 10 minute drive from Roxas City Airport.

Off-the-beaten Destinations for the #NewBreed of Travelers

Biri Rock Formations, Northern Samar

Travelers nowadays don't go to a destination just to see the place. There must be something special about going to a spectacular location that will make the experience "one of a kind." Be it an adventurous activity, an undiscovered natural wonder, a hard to find personality with special skills, an extraordinary food or something that is worth traveling for. These are the #NewBreed of travelers who are always thirsty for new discoveries. It makes them more fulfilled and excited to tell the world that they have been to a place where only a few have ventured to.

TRAVEL TIP: How to Get to Corregidor Island from Manila

Corregidor Island is one of the most popular day trip destinations near Metro Manila. As one of the important historical sites in the country, this tadpole-shaped island located in the Province of Cavite is one of the most-visited tourist attractions in the Philippines. Being a Caviteño, I've always been ashamed when people would ask me about Corregidor when in fact I have never been there. It has always been on my bucket list but never got the chance to visit it.

Sky Ranch Pampanga Photos, Ticket Prices, Operating Hours and How to Get There

Sky Ranch Pampanga officially opened yesterday! Located in the city of San Fernando, Pampanga, it is the newest destination in Northern Luzon that will definitely be a go-to place for family leisure and entertainment. Conveniently situated in SM City San Fernando, this new outdoor amusement park features a wide array of exciting rides such as loop roller coaster, drop tower, double decker carousel, super viking, space shuttle, express train, dream log and bumper boat, among many others.

Cebu Resto Roof Top Lounge

If you're planning to visit Cebu, don't hesitate, promise you will enjoy and impressed with what the province has.

Cebu's finest location in the Philippines is really a good place to relax and unwind your stress after your whole day work. As the most visited province all over our rich and beautiful country Philippines, it naturally bears the amazing places of the province. Hotels in Cebu would be your smart choice as you go with your friends, families, and relatives which offer for your relaxation. If you want to enjoy and relax with fantastic place, there's one I can recommend. A hotel with its restaurant that will give you the best view from the top. For sure, you can easily miss this place.

Sonny's Donuts, "Soft and Scrumptious Miniature Donuts"

Sonny's Donuts is a local brand of mini donuts that started in Quezon City way back in 2006 and makes miniature donuts that are made from all local ingredients. According to the owner, Sonny's Donuts is a sister company of Cello's Donuts and if you've tasted Cello's donuts before, you will see why their donuts are quite similar.

Surfing at Crystal Beach Resort in San Narciso, Zambales

Crystal Beach Resort's beach break is one of the most popular surfing spots in Zambales. It is a favorite destination among surfing enthusiasts and is considered as one of the surfing spots closest to Manila. At Crystal Beach, the waves are not too big and if you get wiped out, you will fall on shallow gray sandy bottom of the beach. This is actually the best place to learn surfing in this part of Luzon.

Crystal Beach Resort in San Narciso, Zambales (Accommodations and Room Rates)

On our 2nd day at Crystal Beach Resort, we got the chance to roam around the expansive property to check on the other accommodations they offer. The resort caters to all social classes with their many types of lodging and accommodation options to choose from. They are mostly made from nipa and other native materials which are just so perfect for a beach setting. Surrounded by agoho trees it perfectly blends with the natural setting of the resort which exudes a very calming and relaxing ambiance.

RESTAURANTS IN ANGELES CITY, PAMPANGA: Bretto's Prestige

Bretto's Prestige is a restaurant and coffee bar in Angeles City, Pampanga that offers a comprehensive menu featuring an array of international cuisines. Located along Don Juico Avenue (at the ground floor of Tune Hotel Angeles City), it caters to both the needs of the guests of the hotel as well as to the local residents and visitors seeking for an upscale place to unwind and relax over great-tasting food.

Crystal Beach Resort Zambales, "Quiet, Simple and Charming Beach Resort in San Narciso Zambales"

If you're itching for a quick getaway or looking for beach destination near Manila, Crystal Beach Resort is one of the best resorts to go in Zambales. Just 4 hours away from the Metro, it offers nice accommodations, lovely beach suitable for surfing, great-tasting food and an array of activities to do while having an awesome beach bumming adventure in Zambales.

GIANT LANTERN FESTIVAL 2014 Schedule of Events in San Fernando City, Pampanga

Dubbed as the "Christmas Capital of the Philippines," San Fernando City's Giant Lantern Festival 2014 is set to happen on December 13, 2014 (Saturday) at Robinsons Starmills, Pampanga. Also known as "Ligligan Parul", it is a yearly competition of boisterous, larger than life and extravagant lanterns in glittering lights, spectacular colors and kaleidoscopic patterns accompanied by lively Christmas songs participated by various barangays in San Fernando City, Pampanga.

WHERE TO EAT: Teddy's Bigger Burgers in Greenbelt 3, Makati City, "Hawaii's Top Burger Joint"

After its successful opening in the Philippines last August 2014, Teddy’s Bigger Burgers, "Hawaii's top burger joint" have been working hard to provide Filipinos a taste of Teddy’s and what makes it a cut above the rest. They boasts in focusing on high quality burgers, where every single patty is treated like the very first patty they've ever cooked. Hmmmm.... Quite interesting!

Sky Ranch Pampanga to Open on November 30, 2014

There's a new and exciting reason to travel to the north as a new amusement park is soon to open! The thrill, fun and excitement is coming to San Fernando Pampanga as Sky Ranch, one of the amusement parks of SM is set to open in SM Pampanga that will definitely be a go-to place for family leisure and entertainment.

What to Do in Rome

Rome, the Eternal City, is one of the most visited places on the continent. Known for its Ancient Roman ruins, a plethora of historical monuments and a variety of trattorias where you will be able to taste traditional dishes, this city is the ideal destination for a city break.

HOTELS IN BALANGA: The Plaza Hotel, "Classy and Stylish Hotel in Balanga, Bataan"

The Plaza Hotel (Photo taken with Nikon AW 120)

The Plaza Hotel is is one of the newest properties to open in Balanga City, Bataan. Located at Plaza Mayor de Ciudad de Balanga or the City Plaza of Balanga, it features an impressive Spanish colonial architecture offering a distinct experience with its rustic, old-world charm and modern undertones. It has several stylishly furnished rooms with elegant and contemporary design that will surely bring any guest to a hotel experience like no other.

BUDGET HOTEL IN MAKATI: Jupiter Suites, "Safe, Comfortable and Affordable Place to Stay in Makati City"

Makati City is one of the most highly urbanized cities in the Philippines. Being on a commercial and business district in Metro Manila, it offers a number of cozy yet value-for-money hotels and accommodations to stay in. Depending on your needs, there are hotels, inns, lodges, hostels and transient houses for you to choose from. So, if you're looking for a budget hotel in Makati City, checkout Jupiter Suites.

10 #Diskarte Travel Notes And Tips You Should Know (But Probably Don't) When Traveling Around The Philippines

I always believe that traveling is one of the best ways to spend your time, money and energy. When I travel, I experience a lot of things - both good and bad - that shaped me as a person. It had taught me to be more adaptable to the world around me. It also made me adjust to situations that I encounter in my day to day activities. Indeed, traveling is one of the best teachers in life.

Dambana ng Kagitingan (Shrine of Valor) on Mt. Samat, Bataan

Bataan is known for its historical sites and many natural tourist spots and attractions. One of these is the "Dambana ng Kagitigan" also known as Shrine of Valor on top of Mt. Samat. I've been wanting to visit this place ever since I was a kid seeing it on textbooks and magazines. It is one of the places listed on my bucket list that I've been wanting to visit for the longest time. So when I had the chance to visit the province of Bataan last month, I made sure that I include Mt. Samat in our Bataan itinerary.

RESORTS IN BALER, AURORA: Costa Pacifica Resort, "New and Modern Beach Style Accommodation in Baler!”

Costa Pacifica Resort is one of the most (if not the only) upscale beach resorts in Baler, Aurora. Located along the famous surfing site - Sabang Beach, it boasts of unparalleled resort accommodation with topnotch facilities, well-appointed rooms, sumptuous food offerings and excellent customer service to the delight of its valued guests seeking for a relaxing vacation away from the city.

BUDGET HOTEL IN MANILA: Go Hotels - Otis Manila (Hotel Review)

Go Hotels Otis-Manila is a 118-room essential service hotel strategically located along the stretch of Paz Guazon in Paco, Manila. It is the 6th branch and 2nd in Metro Manila of the Go Hotels essential service hotel chain which is known to be the "first and largest Filipino-owned value hotel chain in the Philippines." This budget hotel in Manila offers simple, cozy and affordable accommodation, ideal for backpackers and budget travelers visiting the city.

WHERE TO EAT IN ANGELES CITY, PAMPANGA: Jack Fritos Restaurant

Jack Fritos is a newly-opened casual dining restaurant in Angeles City, Pampanga offering mouthwatering Western, Korean and Japanese dishes. The restaurant is known to be one of the best in chicken, hamburger and grilled dishes paired with their mix of special sauces made from special herbs and spices. Their other dishes such as chicken, pork and beef were cooked to perfection and has that great tenderness, juiciness and distinct taste that everyone is craving for.

Can you be a Man of #DISKARTE?

Diskarte is one of the many instinctively Filipino traits that is really hard to define in just one word. Could it be the combination of some traits such as Intelligence? Strategy? Wit? Quick thinking? Being street-smart? Resilience? Almost. But not quite. Even Merriam-Webster and Oxford may not be able to define it, so instead of going through the pages of the dictionary, let's try to read between the lines.

Dubai: The Ultimate Destination for Glamour, Sophistication and Retail Therapy

Dubai attracts 10 million visitors every year who arrive in this city to enjoy the white sand beaches and year round hot temperatures. But for many people it’s the shopping options, restaurants and nightlife that makes this city such a unique destination.

Surf's up in La Union: "The Surfing Capital of the Northern Philippines"

Earlier this year, me and my friends traveled to San Juan, La Union for a much needed break. It's been a while since I last visited this province and I was quite excited for this trip as well to ride again the waves of San Juan. Good enough we were able to catch the last stretch of the surfing months in this part of Luzon, which is October 'til February. Tara! Let's go surfing in La Union!

What Will You Get Outside For?

ATV Adventure in Capas Tarlac

As they say, "Life is either a daring adventure or nothing at all." Aside from the pristine beaches, extravagant festivals, wonderful sights and sumptuous food that the Philippine islands has to offer, adventurous activities have always been part of my travels. Be it riding a zip line, island hopping, camping, surfing, spelunking, chasing waterfalls, mountaineering or any exciting outdoor activity, I see to it that I don't miss an adventurous activity in the place I am visiting.

Authentic Cantonese Dining Experience at Li Li Restaurant, Hyatt Regency Hotel Manila

The Hyatt Regency Hotel Manila is one the grandest and biggest hotels in Metro Manila. I must admit, I haven't been to this hotel but I always see it whenever I go to the mall and other establishments nearby. So when they invited me for an intimate lunch at Li Li's Restaurant earlier this month to sample on the restaurant's most adored dishes, I instantly said "yes!"

"First Ride 3 Surf Competition" at Crystal Beach Resort in San Narciso, Zambales

Calling all students of Quiksilver Surf School to accept the challenge and take your surfing skills to the next level! Get ready for the "First Ride 3 Surf Competition" happening on November 1-2, 2014 at Zambales' prime surfing destination, Crystal Beach Resort in San Narciso, Zambales! There will be 4 categories, namely: Beginners Longboard Wahine, Beginners Longboard Male, Advance Longboard Wahine and Advance Longboard Male. It will surely be a weekend full of fun and adventure!

FYI,- November 2014 Highlights

What's new with FYI™ Channel? This November, it will be an exciting month for FYI™ ("For Your Innovation, For Your Inspiration, and For Your Imagination,") as their viewers will get to enjoy new television programs are geared with a more adventurous, personalized and non-prescriptive approach to programming that showcases a wide range of stories reflecting how people actually live their lives today.

RESTAURANTS IN TARLAC CITY: Chaps Diner at Kart City Tarlac

From its humble beginning as a simple snack joint where residents of Tarlac City and neighboring municipalities would converge to savor on good food, Chaps Diner inside Kart City Tarlac is now one of the hippest and coolest places in the city. It's an awesome place to chill, relax, hangout with friends and of course to enjoy great food.

5 Things Every Traveler Wishes They Owned (Travel Essentials for your Getaway)

I always believe that half of the travel is done if proper planning was made. Whenever I travel, I make sure (well, most of the time) that I plan my trip ahead by researching on how to get there, the things to do, where to eat and what to bring on a specific trip. For me, it is very important that you only bring what you need and what is essential for your trip.

WHAT TO DO IN BORACAY: A Unique, Fun and Memorable Segway Tour to Mt. Luho

Segway is a revolutionary single "personal transporter" that is eco-friendly and an efficient way of traveling around. According to Wikipedia, a Segway is a two-wheeled, self-balancing, battery-powered electric vehicle invented by Dean Kamen. It derived its name from the word segue, which means "smooth transition."

Japanese Street Food goes to BANZAI, "the Great Authentic Japanese Buffet" Restaurant in SM Mall of Asia

You don't need to fly out of the Philippines to satisfy your Japanese cuisine cravings. Banzai, the great authentic Japanese buffet at SM Mall of Asia offers more reasons to celebrate any occasion and enjoy a wide selection of sushi, sashimi and rolls, teppanyaki, tempura and tonkatsu, yakitori, noodles and ramen, cold soba, takoyaki and more!

Nikon HongKong LTD. Announces the Release of its New Digital SLR cameras, the D750 and the D810

Nikon HongKong LTD. is pleased to announce the release of its new Digital SLR cameras, the D750 Nikon FX-format digital SLR camera and the D810, a Nikon FX-format digital SLR camera.