My Comings and Goings

143 Reasons Why Dating Is More Fun In The Philippines

2012-02-12T06:30:00.000-08:00

by: Mhe-anne L. Ojeda

This Valentines Day I will get mushy while at the same time promote Philippines tourism with my own DATING Ideas: It's More Fun in the PHILIPPINES post. Call that hitting two birds with one stone huh!

I warn you though that the post is very personal. It will only feature DATING ideas I learned from dating my
1 and only prince for more than
4 years around places from the
3 major islands of the PHILIPPINES - Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao! (I just realized we have covered the Philippines! Nah. Philippines has 7,000++ islands and we have only been to a handful of exciting places!)

Idea 1. Falling In Love. (But don't fall from this tree!) at Fort San Pedro, a museum located at Plaza Independencia in the Pier Area of Cebu City. Mark and I roamed around Cebu City during our first business travel with him as my office law intern. I didn't know then he was "attracted" to me but I sure know now that this was the pose that made him fall head over heels in love to yours truly (ahem!). So when you are in Cebu City, don't forget to get a good glimpse of this tree as well as the well - preserved Spanish artifacts housed in the museum and the large statue of Legazpi and Antonio Pigafetta just outside the fort walls.

Idea 2. First Date. (Take Things Slow and Simple) by the Beach in Barangay Opol in Cagayan de Oro. Officially as sweethearts we traveled to Cagayan de Oro City for our first date. The stunning sunset, fine sands and refreshing waters all made up for the relaxed environment perfect for taking things slowly (by watching the the sun slowly fade away from the horizon during sunset) while munching on even a simple snack while you talk, laugh, and enjoy being together. Aside from the beach and sunset, Opol is also home to the Philippine Ostrich and Crocodile farm, Aviary and mini zoo and famous seaside restaurants. So don't miss Opol out on your visit!

Idea 3. Getting To Know Your Date. (Feel the Rush) in Cagayan de Oro City river. After the relaxed environment, it's time to get wet & wild and feel the rush (not exactly what you are thinking wink* wink*). I mean go White Water Rafting for at least 4 hours from Barangay Dansolihon to the city and experience the thrills and challenges of rapids every 10 minutes or so. I assure you that like me and Mark, you'll learn to be on the same page as you follow instructions from the guide and paddle together. The experience is also about feeling safe with your date! Want to do this? Go, contact several outfitters in the area.I can vouch for Kagay, the one we used since their rates are reasonable and their services superb.

Idea 4. Lunch Date. (Dining with a good view) in Corregidor. For lunch date ideas keep in mind that it is not only important that the place has a good view but you also like the view of the one you are dining with! Well I am sure you've got the latter covered while Corregidor won't disappoint with its many attractions that evokes and teaches about the past. For a hassle -free tour avail of the Sun Cruises at P2,000 each all-inclusive of buffet lunch, tram, round trip ferry and guided tour with a funny guide who will tell you where the 7 - star hotel is (clue: each room has 1-star!)

Idea 5. Holding Hands. (Before or after using your hands) when you eat sumptuous Filipino dishes without utensils in Kamayan sa Palaisdaan located at Brgy. Dapdap, Tayabas, Quezon. The restaurant is unique since you dine in kubo (nipa hut) on bamboo raft floating on a pond full of carps and other freshwater fishes.The place also abounds with native wooden furniture and fixtures for more photo opt eh.

Idea 6. Communication. (You Hear it Right!). Meaningful conversation is a key to ones relationship, so learn to communicate often and openly and be willing to listen to your partner. Early on in the relationship, I find difficulty in expressing myself for fear I would say the wrong words. But when we were seated in one of the picnic sheds (which I'm sure you noticed is pegged at P150! -but you can have it for free if you stay briefly and collector does not come to give you receipt) in the 13-hectare Tagaytay Picnic Grove , carrying meaningful conversation and sharing facts and feelings became just sooo easy. Believe me, with the view of Taal Lake and the Volcano, you can't help but say "perfect", "marvelous", "breathtaking", "majestic" etc. and your partner will say "Thank you". I agree (lol).

Idea 7. Keeping On The Right Track. (In a relationship) needs a little boasting when the going gets tough like when you move on the Macahambus Bridge, a stay bridge of 120 meters long and 120 feet high located in the heart of Cagayan de Oro City. Walking on the bridge provides you with a view of the Macahambus Gorge amidst gigantic century old trees.(Note: i heard the facility is currently temporarily closed.)

Idea 8. Professing Undying Love. (once you come to this point) it's so much fitting to do it at a place where you can get that inspiration sealed like anywhere in the 152 - acres of land comprising the Manila American Cemetery and Memorial located in Fort Bonifacio in Taguig District.

Idea 9. Taking Baby Steps. (Coz Relationship Takes Time).Don't rush things. Enjoy each other more.Do Ideas 1-8 and visit those wonderful places in the Philippines.then relax at home, playing with nieces and nephews and just spend meaningful moments with each other nurturing family relationships right in your home!

And of course, the last insight on LOVE and DATING comes from my prince himself:

And I know he means it literally. Check his cap to find out!

HAPPY HEARTS DAY to All!

33 Key Words (My) Traveler Beau Knows Which Makes Him A Great Date...

2012-02-10T11:32:00.000-08:00

by: Mhe-anne L. Ojeda

A month before I left for my first ever Europe trip in July 2007, my then law intern Mark asked me if Paris was on my list of places to visit. I told him it wasn't because I didn't know anybody there so will just be happy to scratch the surface of Sweden, Finland, Norway and Amsterdam. Mark then offered to meet me in Paris the first weekend of August 2007 (since he will be in London for a crash course about the same time I was vacationing in Europe). I happily nodded in agreement coz I knew he has been in Paris a year before and can show me some great sights. I also knew that my law intern whom I have been secretly dating for a few days was a confirmed traveler (i.e. a person who is travelling or visiting a place for pleasure) and has lots of frequent flyer miles on his sleeves! (Well, every week during his 8 weeks law internship in the Philippines, he has been to Malaysia, Seoul Korea, Cebu, Cagayan de Oro and London!)

Paris and Amsterdam: 10 Telling Signs on Why A Traveler Is A Great Date!

And so we were meeting in (1) Paris, a place on everyone's bucket list being synonymous to history, culture and romance! But since my ticket for my Europe trip was already booked, it was Mark who gave me the idea that my Northwest Airlines (2) frequent flyer miles can be used for a (3) reward ticket for the Sweden-Paris-Amsterdam-Sweden leg since I only have to pay the taxes. The idea was for him to travel by (4) train from London to Paris while I deplaned at the Charles De Gaulle airport from Sweden, so he reminded me outright to (5) pack light (coz it wouldn't be fun carrying heavy loads as I migrate from places to places), sent me an (6) airport map, suggested that (7) subway was the cheapest and most efficient way to reach our hotel located near the Eiffel Tower (which he scored a great deal using his (8) hotel mileage in booking for our rooms). While in Paris, he brought me to the (9) sightseeing "musts" - The Louvre, River Sienne cruise, Arc de Triomphe, Notre Dame Cathedral, Champs - Elysees, Montmartre, streets of Paris and the Eiffel Tower which was the backdrop for our first monthsary kiss before he headed on an (10) impromptu trip to Amsterdam for more of the get-to-know- my traveler- sightseeing date!

China Dates (Beijing, Shanghai, Hongkong, Macau and Taipei): More Reasons Why A Traveler Is A Great Date!

The days, weeks, and months after the Paris - Amsterdam date proved more of my sweetie's ability as a traveler as we conquered the most populous nation on earth - China! I learned more vocab that are inherently in him just because he travels a lot!

And so it was. We flew on our separate flights from Philippines and New York (USA) respectively and met in (11) Shanghai known for its 'something old and something new' charms - for a post-Christmas and pre-New Year celebration. It was my second trip to Shanghai so Mark brought me to (12) Suzhou for a fun pedicab ride during a cold winter! (glad to have a human blanket huh!). On December 31, 2007 (our New Year's eve but not with the Chinese), we boarded the (13) overnight train on soft sleeper (a private compartment on train with two bunk beds separated from the aisle and fully equipped like a hotel room) and slept my way through China's capital (14) Beijing,stepping on its soil for the first time on the first morning of 2008, which was the perfect setting for our sixth-monthsary date. I will always remember that trip with vocabs such as (15) hostel accommodation recommended by Lonely Planet book near the Tiananmen Square and The Forbidden City, (16) Peking Duck Banquet with his law school class, a (17) leisure gondola ride for short cut to the amazing man-made structure in the world (18) - the Great Wall of China on Badaling side!

For my birthday surprise in October that year too, Mark has invited me to meet up in (19) Hongkong and proved me wrong with his off -the - beaten track itineraries in the New Territories as well as true birthday pampering with suite packages in two different hotels in just two nights! As a traveler, he truly (20) understands the need for checking off bucket lists!

Off to (21) Macau to see the Venetian Hotel grandeur and the enjoyable shows at the casinos which of course weren't gambling related! In 2010, my traveler

date asked me to join him in business trip to (22) Taipei to go up Taipei 101 after he has finished work for the week!

US Summer Trip: New York City, New Jersey, Atlantic City, Chicago,Niagara Falls, Kirtland & Cleveland (Ohio), Palmyra (NY),

Last year, I get to join Mark for a month-long summer vacation in the US and discovered more reasons why it's more fun to date a traveler!

A traveler knows that summer is spelled as (23) ROAD TRIPS and so we went to Atlantic City which is an hour drive from NJ and to Chicago which is a 16 - hour ride each way and he didn't mind either way! He also knows by heart that every traveler must checked out the most romantic roar though the (24) Maid of The Mist Tour of Niagara Falls! And to put some springs on our travel, my traveler date brought me to (25) LDS Church Historic Sites in Kirtland (Ohio) and Palmyra (New York) and watched my first ever baseball game in the (26) Yankee's stadium in New York City between the Yankees and his fave team Washington's Mariners!

That summer too, Mark has shown (27) great skill in booking my plane tickets allowing me to travel to four countries in one day and aboard three new airlines - Asiana, All Nippon Airways, and United.

US Winter Trips: New York, New Jersey, Boston, Philadelphia, Milford, Gettysburg, Hersheys (All in Pennsylvania),

Double take on my US Winter vacation with my traveler date means (28) more warmth despite the freezing below zero temperature because he is a traveler! Who would have thought about (29) Hot Hands until he handed me one during the New Year's countdown in Times Square (New York)! Learned later that he stuffed his car with this hand and body warmers to be handy when he travels from place to place with differing temperatures. I also realized that since my boyfriend is a traveler, (30) every weekend and holiday means suddenly going on a trip with a surprise hotel bookings for an overnight stay like what we did in Philadelphia and Hershey 'the sweetest place on earth'!

Why I Would Continue to Date Mark the Traveler...

MAP (Mark Alan Poff) my traveler beau is a true blooded traveler (noticed the initial of his name?). I believe he was born to travel and I can think of 33 reasons (coz he just turned double three this year! H.B.) why I think so: he (31) helps me make the best possible travel arrangements - putting me on the best airlines (like when he change my flight from Continental to Virgin Atlantic on my flight to London) or making alternate booking arrangements in a snap of his fingers (how many times did I change my flights, anyone?). Because Mark is well traveled. he (32) advises me on ALL the places I want to visit - telling me the weather conditions, attractions, transportation, accommodations based on his own experiences (yea, he has been there!) and last but definitely not the least, as a traveler (33) Mark just know perfect gifts for a fellow traveler date (takes one to know one huh) - Kindle Touch, pink colored luggage keys, Round Trip tickets (twice to US did you notice?), and a credit card and debit card! (this was a huge surprise!)

And that's not all...as he ages, I'm sure I will be adding another reason why a TRAVELER (particularly my prince!) is a great date! Call that cheesy. I agree.

This is my entry to Pinoy Travel Bloggers’ Blog Carnival for February 2012 with the theme ‘Why Should I Date A Traveler?’ being hosted by Lauren Gaile of .Epicpotato.com! While this may not be generally true for other travelers date, I tell you it is REAL for my prince, the only Traveler I dated for 4 1/2 years!!

For previous Blog Carnival topics please visit Estan Cabigas' Langyaw.

US Winter Road Trip 2012: Seven (7) Remembrances of US History In Philadelphia!

2012-01-08T01:10:00.000-08:00

by: Mhe-anne L. Ojeda

It is never too late to discover history! And I mean that quite literally since we woke up really late last Saturday but that didn't stop us from driving to Philadelphia, the so-called cradle of America where I found rich remembrances of United States early history.

Philadelphia traces its history back to March 4, 1681 when England's King Charles repaid the debt with William Penn by granting the family a land officially called Penn's Woods as "sylvania" is Latin for woods). The society and governance established during Penn's time and thereafter when the United States began to take shape is still very much felt around the Independence National Historical Park and around the City Center.

7REMEMBRANCES OF U.S. HISTORY I FOUND IN PHILLY

1 National Constitution Center-is the most interactive history museum devoted to the U.S. Constitution and the story of WE, the people.

2 Liberty Bell Center
- larger - than - life historic documents and graphic image of the Bell as a symbol of freedom.

3 Independence Hall
-this is the site built between 1732 and 17523 was where the adoption of the Declaration of Independence and the drafting and signing of the U.S. Constitution took place. In more recent times, President John F.Kennedy delivered his speech in this hall during Independence Day on July 4, 1962. The tour is free but ticket is required March to December because of great number of visitors.

4 Old City Hall
-this was the site of the city hall of Philadelphia and used to be the home of US Supreme Court from f1871 until 1800 when it moved to Washington D.C.

5 Congress Hall
-this is the building adjacent to the Independence Hall and was the seat of the United States Congress for almost 10 years from December 6, 1790 until to May 14, 1800. Many historic events took place including the ratification of the Bill of Rights and the establishment of the U.S. Mint among others.

6Independence Square

-this is Philadelphia's city block consisting of the Independence Hall, Old City Hall and Congress Hall.

7 Benjamin Franklin

- Philadelphia is almost synonymous with Benjamin Franklin who has made worthy contributions as a printer, diplomat, inventor, publisher, author, statesman, Postmaster, and more since he moved here from Boston when he was 17. This explains the many institutions,neighborhoods, buildings and streets that bear his name foremost of which is Benjamin Franklin Parkway which is the so - called Philadelphia's Champs Elysees.

US Road Trip 2012: Love Abounds In Philadelphia, the City of Brotherly Love!

2012-01-07T03:26:00.000-08:00

by: Mhe-anne L. Ojeda

If there's one place where you can be a little mushy all year round, I'd say it is Philadelphia. From Greek words philos (love) and delphos (brother), Philadelphia. got its nickname the "City of Brotherly Love" quite literally. But does Philadelphia live up to its nickname? I personally say, oh yea!

(1) JFK Plaza (also: Love Park)

Dressed to nines in my red cardigan, our late afternoon winter walk brought us to JFK Plaza at the intersection of 16th Street and John F. Kennedy Boulevard in Center City. This park is dedicated to President John F. Kennedy in 1967 but was nicknamed Love Park because of the Love sculpture designed by Robert Indiana that was placed there in 1976.
I was ecstatic to finally find this sculpture which I couldn't locate around Taipei 101 in Taiwan's capital despite diligent search around the second tallest building in the world.

(2 Mother's Day Historical Marker

At Traffic Island between Market and Juniper Streets, I spotted a historical marker called Mother's Day which instantaneously reminded me of my mother and her love. The marker indicates that Anna Jarvis of Philadelphia founded Mother's Day in 1908 and the celebration received federal recognition in 1914 designating the second Sunday of May as Mother's Day .

(3) Philippines Flag, Benjamin Franklin Parkway

I couldn't be more happier seeing our Philippine Flag proudly waving along the Benjamin Franklin Parkway leading to the Philadelphia Museum of Art. The Flag exudes a feeling of pride and a source of inspiration and comfort. I posed awhile and put my right hand over my heart and paid my respect. Call that love of country.

(4) Rocky Steps - Philadelphia Museum of Art

Rocky Steps is the 72 stone steps before the entrance of the Philadelphia Museum of Art that was seen in the triple Oscar-winning film Rocky and its sequels Rocky II, III, IV and Rocky Balboa. Not only I was able to mimic Rocky's famous climb, but i was able to sit with my prince at the top of the steps and scored the most elusive photo opportunity with him while having a majestic view of the Eakins Oval, Benjamin Franklin Parkway, and the Philadelphia City Hall.

And where's the other love? It was in the book called Rocky Stories: Tales of Love, Hope and Happiness at America's Most Famous Steps published by the two journalist of Philadelphia Inquirer as a result of their one year of interviewing people running up the steps.

(5) Board Game Art Park, "Your Move"

Because I love board games, I totally fell in love with the Municipal Services Building Plaza at the west side of Broad between Arch and JFK near the City Hall. Giant game pieces from many popular board games like Monopoly, chess, dominoes, Bingo and Sorry! (I don't know this game but my prince said it is called like that!) are scattered around the plaza and always available for viewing anytime of the day or night. The large scale game pieces is part of the Your Move installation by Daniel Martinez, Renee Petropoulis, Roger White in 1996.

(6) Hello Love! The Westin Philadelphia Hotel

(Note: Hello Love sign is not part of the wall decor)
I do love surprises and staying on a Saturday night at The Westin in downtown Philadelphia was no doubt a huge one! And I mean that literally - huge king size "heavenly bed", two shower heads in the bathroom (love that!), attached to the Liberty Mall and close to lots of shops and restos. For a spontaneous, last minute trip, I was totally surprised at the kind of hotel rooms my prince got! A 4-star and former Ritz Carlton hotel which I can't help but love!!!

"It's More Fun In The Philippines"

2012-01-06T08:52:00.000-08:00

by: Mhe-anne L. Ojeda

"It's More Fun In The Philippines" is the new slogan/tagline by the Philippine Department of Tourism (DOT) which is launched officially today. I have seen many bloggers and friends create their own memes as a way of supporting and embracing the tagline which is true to the core. Now I want to join the bandwagon! Here are some memes I created out of my old photos since I am still here in the US (staycationing, hehe).

1. Cagsawa Ruins with Mayon Volcano in the background with my CS Guest
from Canada Sean Pegg.
Albay Province (Bicol)

2. Finding a P100 Bill Floating in Sagada River undefaced.
Sagada, Mountain Province

3. Philippine Jeepney, Taal Boat and Taal Volcano (where u can go horseback
riding)
Talisay, Batangas

4. Going inside the Sumaging Cave with CS Guest Nabil Mekour and LDS friend
Darin Humphreys (my second time)
Sagada (Mountain Province)

5. Cavity of Rocks in Matukad Island in Caramoan Group of Islands

Caramoan Island, Camarines Sur (Bicol)

Note: More to follow.

143 Journeys: Celebrating Our 4 1/2 Years Together!

2012-01-05T09:18:00.000-08:00

by: Mhe-anne L. Ojeda

Alright 4 1/2 years does not seem to be a milestone in a relationship for many, but it is to me. Glad my prince took me on a date to celebrate it!

Oh yea, we go on dates weekly since I am vacationing here in the US. But since today is a Thursday, I was still surprised that my prince came home early with a plan - a Tex-Mex restaurant and Tom Cruise movie - Mission Impossible!

Jose Tejas is one of my prince's favorite Tex-Mex restaurants and it is now my fave too! It has a festive mood, authentic feel (maybe Texas or Mexico not sure coz I haven't been in both), gas lamps with real flames and great mix of music from old time country to modern and 50's rock and roll.

And of course, I love Jose Tejas because of many different mexican food on the menu, which are delicious (coz a bit spicy!) and come in large quantities. They also give free chips and salsa while waiting for our order and oh boy, the salsa tasted so good, perfect for my shrimp order even! I also love the huge glasses for the drinks (and noticed my prince didn't have to ask for refills constantly!)

Yea, Jose Tejas is not the typical quiet romantic evening date places, but I like it nonetheless. Reminds me of law school days with that bar "feel" and my root beer is bottled like real "beer"! (rhyme huh!).

And to complete the evening, from Jose Tejas we went to Loews (Theater) to see my fave Tom Cruise movie Mission Impossible 4! It was a great movie to say the least. I love it!

And I love my prince! I appreciate the simple but fun celebration just like the beginning of days - in Greenhills resto and Transformer movie. I'm sure my prince didn't realize (until now), but we have recreated our first date ever! Love it!!

Travel Guide: A Glimpse Into 3D/2N D-I-Y Itinerary In Davao For First Timer or an Old Pro!

2012-01-04T11:21:00.000-08:00

by: Mhe-anne L. Ojeda

3D2N (translated as three days and two nights) is that magical number-combination tailored for travelers availing of trips on long weekends or during their short VLs. But other than the offerings in hotel -stay or tour packages (which comes in hefty,almost a rip - off arrangements), there seems to be a few accounts of the 3-days 2-nights itineraries by D-I-Y (Do It Yourself) travelers, and so you wonder if the magical duration actually works!

Wonder no more. I will spill the beans for you! 3D2N works for me and my friend Nilo while in Davao last August 21-23, 2011. It was Nilo's first trip while my umpteenth time in Davao but at least first time to attend the 26th Kadayawan sa Dabaw Festival (where I met for the first time several Pinoy Travel Bloggers and wore the festival's media pass(for the first time!). So take a glimpse at our itinerary - the places and activities that did not disappoint both a first timer and an old pro (that's me!) and see if it works for you too!

DAY 1 - Detailed Itinerary and Highlights

If you are from Manila like us, maximizing the 3D2N in Davao (which is about 964km away by plane) means taking a morning flight for departure and an evening flight back to Manila. We took the Cebu Pacific Flight at 4am (slept on flight) and arrived at the Davao International Airport (Francisco Bangoy) at sunrise, just when everyone is waking up and starting their day.

Before 7am we were already in Davao City, had breakfast at a fast food chain near the People's Park while peeking at people doing their morning exercise. Then we proceeded to Apo View Hotel (not to check in folks!) but to meet Pinoy Travel Blogger's contingent led by Olan Fernandez Emboscado to watch the Pamulak (Floral Float) Parade, the culminating and one of the most awaited event of the 26th Kadayawan Sa Dabaw Festival. As Davao's annual harvest thanksgiving festival, the highlights of the Kadayawan Festival revolved around the third week of August so our arrival was anticipated at me joining several PTBs as "media" for the Pamulak Parade on the last day of the festival.

Our "media pass" allowed us a good view in front of Apo View Hotel and able to enjoy and photographed about 100 floats and thousands of people particpating in the colorful, festive Pamulak Parade. My fave float was the float of the cast of Amaya (my fave GMA tv program) and it felt good to see in person the beautiful Marian Rivera (oh, the jologs in me again!

Then:

12NN - Lunch with PTBs and chit chats

2PM - Checked - In at Hotel
(Money Savings Tip: the best time to be in Davao is after the Kadayawan Festival, as most hotels offer 50% discount. We paid P1,500 for twin - bed occupancy at a four star business hotel!)
3PM - Attend an LDS Church Service (and meet friends!)

At 4PM, Nilo's friend from Church and my colleague Atty. Bibiano Bustamante were in agreement that given the time, the best place to go was at the Davao Crocodile Park for that exciting Davao Wildlife Experience!

We availed of the Package (for P200) and visited the Davao Butterfly House, watched Davao Crocodile Park Show, and the Tribu K' Mindanawan Cultural and Fireshow. At 7PM, we dined at the Riverwalk Grill Exotic Restaurant for our first-ever Croco Meat! (well, I chickened out but tasted just a teeny tiny bit!) . At 8PM, we were back at hotel to doze off since we had an early morning trip to Cateel, Davao Oriental.

DAY 2 - Detailed Itinerary and Highlights.
For the detailed experiences, please check Love Affair With Cateel, Davao Oriental. (Note: Day 2 is for "old pros in Davao" who has the done-that, seen that and looking for new spot to explore. For first timer, I would suggest either a Samal Island Tour, Eden Nature Park, Gap Farm, City Tour, or Mount Apo adventures).

(Travel and Money Savings Tips: Better call in to make reservations for bus travel to Cateel. We were just lucky to be given the front seat when we showed up!) at the Ecoland Bus Terminal. Be sure to couchsurf or stay at someone you know, and come home early so they don't worry where you are!)

DAY 3 - Detailed Itinerary and Highlights

Returning in Davao from Cateel at 8AM, I chose to bring Nilo to the Philippine Eagle's National Centre in Malagos, Calinan District (an hour away from the city by public transport). The Philippine Eagle National Center is a santuary of the world's largest eagles and home to the Philippine Eagle which is considered to be an endangered specie. We paid PHP 5 to go through the Malagos Garden Park and another PHP50 to gain access inside the Center. There is a small cafe so we had our breakfast there, while overlooking a large Koi pond. I believe Nilo enjoyed the Philippine Eagle which is said to be the second largest eagle in the world.But although it wasn't my first time there, I still enjoyed the visit of the so called "mega mall" and felt so close to nature, leaving it with a strong desire to take care of the environment!.

At lunch time, we were back in Davao City. After putting our bags at my colleague's office in front of Apo View Hotel, we walked to the nearby People's Park, a four-hectare park which was opened in December 2007. It is one of those places in Davao that I took for granted and skipped, so like Nilo it was my first time there! I was amazed at how beautiful the park is! I love the giant sculptures around the park esp. the Philippine Eagle, Durian and Davao's men and women. Towards the end of the park, there is mini-forest with ponds and waterfalls. There is also an interactive fountains, but there was no water when we were there.

We spent the rest of the afternoon buying pasalubong at the Aldevinco Shopping Center and bought pomelo from the Ramon Magsaysay Fruit stands. At 5PM, we were already packing our bags, and ready to leave for the airport by 6PM, avoiding the traffic. We bid Davao goodbye at 8:40PM!

This is my entry to Pinoy Travel Bloggers’ Blog Carnival for January 2012 with the theme ‘3Day 2 Nights Challenge’ being hosted by Eileen Campos (hot momma) of Possibly Pinay.com) .For previous Blog Carnival topics please visit Estan Cabigas' Langyaw.

Winter Travel 2012: Knitted Hooded Mufflers

2012-01-03T13:58:00.000-08:00

by: Mhe-anne L. Ojeda

Packing For Winter Travel can be a daunting task if you are to pack "light" and still wanna make sure you've got everything to fight that freezing temperature while on the go - at least some head and neck covering to go with the coat. So you pick some scarf that can protect neck and throat against chilly winds and a fur hat that can block the winds and protect the ears against the bitter cold. Good enough, except that you can only take a couple of scarves and that fur hats!

I didn't have the same problem this time when I found out about Knitted Hooded Mufflers! These are neck scarfs and hats - in - one made of knitted fabrics. I tell you, whoever thought of this or set this trend must be godsend. It has solved my winter packing problem!

I love Knitted Hooded Mufflers! They are thick but not heavy, so I brought All five that I got for only P380 total, at the Christmas Bazaar in Quezon City Circle (pink and green- P70 each, while maroon, gray and white P80 each) and still able to pack "light"
coz they didn't take much space in my medium size luggage!

They are super soft, comfortable touch feeling but guaranteed to provide the

warmth and comfort on a cold day.They are also simple and yet attention getting as an adornment for my jogging suit on somewhat warm days.

And because I was able to bring various colors, they are easy to match with my clothes, allowing me to create a super cute fashion while still blocking

the chilly winds off my head and neck!

Lastly, knitted hoods work double duty - they're great for more layers under my hooded shirts and sometimes the hood can be worn as a scarf for thicker layer under the throat!

Journey 2012: Top 11 Christmas Gifts And Givers (In Order!)

2012-01-02T18:39:00.000-08:00

by: Mhe-anne L. Ojeda

I just came back dining at Chillis with Greg and Miriam Stokes' family and really wanted to blog about the dinner with my prince's generous and nice brother. But since I did not take pictures, except for my yummy combo shrimp order, I couldn't write much about it. Enough to say that I had fun, chilling (coz it was still cold for me despite the three-layered ensemble plus cardigan coat) at the dinner (which took forever, with so many families waiting for tables!). According to Miriam, she was surprised to find such a huge crowd on a Monday night! Oh well, I guess many people still consider January 2 as a holiday and I'm happy to jump on the bandwagon - blog post wise!

Earlier at the Stokes' home, I collected my last (~~oh hopefully not the last~~) Christmas gifts, which reminded me of the many thoughtful gifts I received this Christmas. Oh, how I love them! But more than the thrill these tangible gifts bring, the most lasting impressions come from the feelings that I am thought of and loved by the giver and this truly made me Merry! (which by the way is the correct spelling of my real name- Merry Ann!)

Here are my Top 11 Christmas Gifts and Givers!

1) Parents' Pearl Jewelry Set. My parents didn't wait for our Christmas program (Dec. 22) to give me these golden hues pearl necklace, bracelet and earrings! I was truly delighted because this was my first pearls gift, after more than a decade!

2) Bhebe's Red Bag. Sure, this one may not be as 'pricey' as a real designer's bag, but just the thought of my sister -in-law Bhebe mulling over what gift she could give me as my secret Monita and actually getting me something I have been drooling for days is truly heartwarming!

I was so thrilled to have a RED bag that fits my net book, solving my carry - on dilemma for my then upcoming trip here in the US!

3) Imee and Joel's Striped Blouse and Pajamas. I so love the blouse from my sister-in-law Imee and the sleepwear that my brother Joel allowed Imee to pick for me! They never cease to amaze me each Christmas time when they would give me little something that truly delights my senses. The blouse and sleepwear are pretty additions to their good taste and goodness!

4) Ate Amy's Pink Swingpack and her mom's handmade purple clutch bag. What a bag-gy pair from mother and daughter! Ate Amy surprises me with such a cute pink swingpack for a girly touch that is complemented by another girly handmade purple small bag from her mom Lilia. That's what you call feminine duo!

5) Brothers Mike and Allan's Gifts of Thoughts and Service.My two brothers Kuya Mike and Allan gifts need no wrappings and uses their innate talents to serve and help me. Allan re-painted my house and kuya Mike agreed to man the office (and budget) to afford me the vacation I have been looking forward to!

6) Santa Stoke's Stocking Surprise.Instead of Santa traveling far to bring smile and best holiday wishes, I was the one who swung by and found him at the Stokes' home ready, despite short notice and no cookie, to hand me my first- ever Christmas Stocking filled with Holiday treats that made my holiday sweeter!

7) Miriam's Coach Wristlet and Christmas Ornament.A fun and stunningly attractive Coach Wristlet and a Christmas Tree shaped ornament (which adds to my collection) are such sweet surprises from Mark's sister-in-law Miriam Stokes! She is an amazing, kind-hearted and thoughtful person I am blessed to get to know. She makes me feel like a family!

8) Greg's American Express Gift Card. Having Greg as my prince' brother, almost twin, I know why Mark is so generous and kind! Getting an American Express gift card carry lots of emotional value to it - since it is my first-ever Christmas gift card (how is that!) and the value loaded on the card will definitely go a long way for me while in Europe (without a plastic)!

9) Prince's Warm Gifts.Of course, the most generous and thoughtful giver for this holiday season is my prince! He gave me warm gifts (or gifts that keep me warm in the cold winter) - that includes One Pass Ticket for an RT- Asia-Europe-US with final destination in New Jersey (to claim his tight embrace), two (2) pairs of comfy socks - blue and a pink, waiting on my arrival and on Christmas Day - a salmon Old Navy sweatshirt and two (2) pairs of gloves!

A Kindle Touch. And the most thrilling gift ever comes in a small package and one that is ready to use right out of the box - a Kindle Touch! I feel so special knowing that my prince know that I love anything that has to do with books! And he just made it easy and elegantly!

Stuffed Toy From Ireland. And the most touching, Mark never forgets my all-time favorite - a stuffed toy! He got this leprechaun from Ireland during his conference there!

10) Best friend Dearie's Travel Essentials Gift. My bestfriend Ate Dearie is from San Francisco, California and has sent me a package containing the items I would need for my Europe trip - an electrical toothbrush (which I requested), pocket-size adapter that works anywhere in the world and a check to buy an in-soles! Truly a bestfriend knows how to give the best gift!

11) Myself. That's right! Who says I can't give myself a gift? Right, none. Just common notion. But last Christmas Day I learned from Mark's 5 - year old nephew, Carter this most important lesson - Don't Forget Yourself This Christmas!
Carter's school has a Christmas Store which features gift items for everyone on a child's list: mom, dad, brothers, sisters, teachers, grand parents and friends, all within a child's budget. I believe it is Carter's first time to experience the thrill of picking his own gifts - so after picking for mom, dad, he had something wrapped for himself too! It might seem a little funny at first, but actually, I learn that each of us should at least get ourselves something for Christmas! So, with that inspiration -I've chosen myself a gift that will remind me to do "all the things I always wanted to do" and achieve goal after goal, from "simple to challenging" before I hit the sack! Yes, with the help of my prince, I gifted myself a hard copy of the book "2011 Things To Do Before You Die" which I have been dying (pun intended!) to have since 2009 (but always out of stock at Barnes and Nobles!).

Do you give yourself a gift for Christmas? What did you get? Do tell.

Journey 2012: How I Enjoyed The Historic New Year's Eve Ball Drops In New York City!

2012-01-01T03:47:00.000-08:00

by: Mhe-anne L. Ojeda

To see the iconic New Year’s Eve Ball drops from the flagpole atop the historic Times Square, New York City, at the stroke of midnight on December 31st tops my idea of ringing in the New Year! Year after year, I am one of the billion others from all over the world whose eyes are riveted on TV "waiting for the ball to drop" on New Year's Eve, as million revelers on site unitedly bid the year goodbye and welcome the new year. The celebration is unlike anything in the world!

At exactly 11:59 pm of December 31, 2011, I have witnessed the ceremonial ball descended down the flagpole of One Time Square (New York City) for 60 -seconds just as it was in previous years! The only difference this time is I've seen it in real life and not on TV! Guess, I can now claim to be a part of this over a 100 - year global tradition and checked off this task from the book " 2001 Things To Do Before You Die"! TOot, toot!

My prince's apartment is just 38 minutes away from the Big Apple on a train, so I took advantage and embraced the idea that this is gonna be the year to get that glimpse of the famous ball dropping on the New Year. As date draws near, my anticipation runs high. Website says Justin Beiber will perform and Lady Gaga, after her performance, will officiate the lowering of the ceremonial ball which will be lit and raised to the top of the 77-foot flagpole at One Time Square (Broadway at 43rd Street). I knew that the earlier we arrive, the better view and the closer we will be to the action! But the problem is, I can't stand being in the middle of such giant crowds in potentially below zero (freezing!!) temperature for many hours. So to get the most enjoyment out of this historic celebration, here's what I did:

1) Bundle Up. I put on many layers both tops and bottoms - 6 total including a thermal wear and a wind-resistant coat. Two of the layers have hoods, so I have three coverings for my head with my hooded muffler to keep me warm. I made sure too that some layers have zippers so it can easily be removed while in the car, train and train stations which are all heated. And don't forget the gloves!

2) Bring Nothing Except for camera, New Year's paraphernalia like funky 2012 eyeglasses, confetti, horn (not as fun as Pinoy's torotot) and your holiday spirits! Backpacks, alcohol, folded chairs even are not allowed! You can bring pizza and drinks (esp. water to keep you hydrated). But again, you don't want to drink or eat much since there isn't any restroom nearby! In our case, we dined at my prince's favorite Famous Amadeo's Pizza place after the celebration. The pizza couldn't be better, not only because it was really the best pizza in the world, but also because the craving built up as we waited!

3) Get There Late. Of course, if watching the performances is your thing more than just to see "the ball drop", then you should get there in the afternoon to claim a good "spot" since access to the pens (as in pigpens and not ballpens) is on a First Come First Serve basis. Your only problem though is being out there long in the cold without a restroom nearby and not being able to do any other fun things for hours or you lose your claimed "spot"!

Since I am already happy just to see the 60-second ceremonial ball descent, we planned to get to New York by 10pm. We drove to the New Jersey train station past 7pm and made it to the 7:32 train to New York Pennsylvania Station. Unlike our anticipation, there wasn't a huge crowd there (maybe already at Times Square) so we found a good seat. Our commute was only 38 minutes and reached New York (albeit in the station) a few minutes past 8pm.

We took the subway to Central Park and walked our way to the access entrance manned by New York Police Department. Though we can literally still walk a lot closer to the 43rd Street, we decided to stay in the front row pen located in the 57th Street. Yes, it is far away, we couldn't even hear the sound system nor see the huge screens, but I could see the famous ceremonial ball and that's what counts (pun intended)! Besides, we have a good, if not the best view, of the fireworks after the countdown!

4) Use The Restroom While In Train Station. This would be your last until the ball drops (from Times Square flagpole). Once you get access in one of the many pens, you can't leave, otherwise someone takes your precious "spot".

5) Hot Hands. I mean the air-activated Heatmax warmers made of iron powder, water, salt, activated charcoal and wood fiber that when exposed to air produce heat up to 10 hours. My prince was so sweet to have Hot Hands handy for me for that soothing warmth inside my gloves when I felt the chill!

But of course, adding to the thrill of having participated in a historic global tradition is to be with my prince and feel the warmth of his hands, his tight embraces and gentle kisses (just two!) - to bid the year goodbye and welcome the coming year!

Happy New Year To All. May this year be fruitful and full of many wonderful surprises to everyone!!

Travel 2011: Rabbit Year Rewind

2011-12-30T11:37:00.000-08:00

by: Mhe-anne L. Ojeda

The days are counting down so quickly! In a day, 2011 will bid adieu and the year of the Metal Rabbit will sleep as the Dragon makes a roar in a few weeks. But before I get too caught up with the excitement of traveling in the coming year (~~and add more backlogs in my list~~), let me wrap up and rewind how the Rabbit year has been.

I jumped start the year with a leisurely Road Trip To Pangasinan. It was work related, with lots of opportunities to discover more the tale of two cities of - Urdaneta and Dagupan, known to be the safest/cleanest city and the Bangus Capital of the world respectively and visited the many places of interest in its capital - Lingayen passing along the equally endowed municipality of Binmaley, the Seafood Capital of the North.

Then before January came to a close, I had a chance to be in Tagaytay once again to tour around three couch surfers from Taiwan (Ryan, Nikki and Jordan). The itinerary for that day became my entry to the Pinoy Travel Blog Carnival' Best One Day Itinerary.

For the love month of February, I did a Douglas Mc Arthur and returned to the romantic capital of Pangasinan - Lingayen, to complete the property due diligence assignment. The work was easily coupled with pleasure, spending the night at the nearby Hundred Islands National Park In Alaminos City, which is only 45 minute-drive from the capital.

On our way back, we stopped in Calasiao for a sumptuous feast of crabs and shrimps courtesy of my friend Atty. Rubenita Bigol in addition to its famous puto and kutsinta treat for travelers.

March ushered in with a quick road trip to Cavite and side trip to Antipolo City but followed by frequent road trips to Pangasinan, an opportunity to get to see more towns like Mangatarem, Bolinao, Bani, San Carlos, Bayambang, and Villasis in addition to the usual do.

The month of April literally opened up with a travel to Binangonan on April Fool's Day (not for some prank jokes but) to attend my aunt Liway's post birthday celeb slash pre-reunion prep for the first ever Lavarro Family Reunion. Then for the Holy Week, I had a hometown treat discovering the paradise right in our backyard - the Calaguas Group Of Islands in Vinzons, Camarines Norte.

With my new-found friends in Calaguas, we went on a Summer Road Trip Around Laguna in May enroute to enjoying the Kiping and Other Colorful Stars of Pahiyas Festival in Lucban, Quezon. And as my month won't be enough without a drive to Pangasinan, work required me to go back there affording a chance Meeting With the Best and the Beast of Urdaneta City, napping at a quaint town of Binalonan and attending the summer destination wedding reception of my friends Delilah and Randy in Manaoag.

June was my busiest month work wise - with more frequent road trips to Urdaneta City almost on a weekly (and sometimes on a ~~weakly~~) basis. Well I had to be nice to my bosses and clients you know, to get the green light for my month-long trip to the United States at the end of the month! But still I was able to start my Lakbay Jose Rizal At 150 Heritage Trail with sites visits around Manila (Rizal Park), Antipolo City, Malolos, Bulacan and San Fernando, Pampanga. Finally, the feat of being in Four Countries In One Day added to the mid - year excitement!

Travel wise, July tops prettily in terms of the most number of flight segments, covered road trips distance, new places and exciting experiences. In order, my month-long vacation took me to Daly City, San Francisco, Sacramento, Coloma, Martinez, Vallejo, Marin County, Hayward, San Jose , Oakland (all in California) , Las Vegas (Nevada), Newark, Freehold, Edison, Atlantic City (all in New Jersey), Cincinnati (Ohio), Denver, Castle Rock, Aspen (Colorado), St. Paul Minneapolis (Minnesota), Pennsylvania, Indiana, Downersgrove & Chicago (Illinois), Cleveland, Kirtland (Ohio) and New York City, Palmyra, Niagara Falls (New York). Blog wise, I was able to blog daily (albeit belatedly) with 30 posts! yeahey!

Back in the Philippines from my month-long US vacation, the travels for August were limited to a 4D/3N get-away with friends in old, familiar destinations watching a parade! I was in Hongkong with my high school friends Lanie, Angie, Dolly and Kuya Mike enjoying Disneyland's Flights of Fancy Parade in the mid-week. Then, flown in Davao with my friend Nilo to watch the Kadayawan Festival Parade along with the fun Pinoy Travel Bloggers (PTB) friends, which culminate in my gutsy commute to Cateel, Davao Oriental the following day.

The month of September was a month of many exciting and not-so exciting firsts! On the first day of the month, I found myself arriving in Brunei Darussalam for the first time, with my parents, brother Joel and friend couple Jojo and AA. It was my parents and brother's first travel abroad while it was first travel abroad as a couple for newly weds Jojo and AA. During the 4 - day stay, we were able to experience for the first time meeting a royalty and attending a Hari Raya Aidilfitri Feast At the Sultan's Palace and to get to know for the first time a Golden Treasure named Jonathan, a complete stranger who paid for all our rooms in a five - star hotel for two nights stay!

But the not-so exciting first (sad!) was when I missed my flight to Dipolog due to heavy traffic and not-so-trained driver. It should have been 3D/2N adventure with my Kuya Mike, checking off the 10 sites featured in the Rizal @ 150 Heritage Trail in Dapitan, Katipunan and Dipolog.

Wow, except for a quick road trip to Urdaneta, Pangasinan (work related) and in my hometown Vinzons, Camarines Norte for the long week-end,October, my birthday month was almost travel-free, less busy month this year (unlike in previous years) where I had birthday adventures abroad. It was, of course, for a good reason! My prince, announced I could either be in Idaho (his parent's hometown) and other US States (for Christmas and New Year) OR Europe (Austria, Germany and London) for his birthday (January 19). Both were appealing and so I can't and didn't want to choose! He agreed after I promised to not spend on travels for October and November!

Still part of the travel deal with my prince, I did not go anywhere far for the month of November! This allowed me to host, Joy, a couch surfer from Beijing. I picked her up from Clark, Pampanga where she arrived from Cebu and brought her to the American Cemetery, Mall of Asia and NAIA 3 the next day. Travel preparation wise, this month is full of stuff to blog about as it was the time to get all the visas needed for the mini RTW (round-the-world-trip) in December and January! I applied for my first ever UK visa which was surprisingly fast and easy (took a day) and my second Schengen Visa before the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany.

And finally the most-awaited month of December brought excitement by being able to fly on three (3) new airlines (Singapore Airlines, Lufthansa and Continental), meet my PTB idol Ron Cruz of Flip N' Travels during a lay over in Changi Airport (Singapore), have a five - hour lay over in Frankfurt, Germany, celebrate Christmas with my prince and brother's family in New Jersey, USA and enjoy every unhurried days left this month with my prince until the coming year!

Surely 2011 has been a blast! Oh! the excitement of checking off some bucket lists and receiving high travel credit ratings both in Lakbayan (for Philippines Travel) and Geckogo (for World Travel).As I counted it today, I had 22 flight segments aboard 9 airlines (Asiana, United Airlines, All Nippon Airways, Delta Airlines, Singapore Airlines, Lufthansa, Continental, Cebu Pacific and Tiger Airways), visiting 12 States in the US, (4 of them -Colorado, Illinois, Indiana, and Minnesota new and added to my 28 US States to date), 12 new US cities, 5 countries in Asia (Hongkong, Seoul, Korea, Tokyo, Japan, Singapore and Brunei Darussalam), 1 in Europe (Frankfurt, Germany), and 1 in the Philippines (Davao City) with 82 rounds of road trips around the United States and the Philippines - ALL within whoaah, 92 days! (who says you can only get 15 days paid leaves?).

In sum, 2011 has been much of a Rabbit year for me - affording me longer vacation time for a more relaxed, unhurried and calm travel experiences! I kinda like it that way!! Do you?

Happy New Year to all!

Winter Travel: Packing Light,Possible?

2011-12-19T10:50:00.000-08:00

by: Mhe-anne L. Ojeda

I’m leaving on Thursday for a 33-day travel around the United States, United Kingdom, some countries in Europe (with short stops in Singapore) to celebrate the holidays with my prince and meet family and friends. I am pretty excited. Everything is ready - all visas (US,UK and Schengen), tickets (courtesy of my prince) and world travel insurance! With that I can now officially start packing!

I opened my so-called "winter closet" and put to good use the coats, gloves, mufflers, thermal wear, boots, sweat shirts, socks, hoods since it is winter in US and Europe at this time. In February 2009, I spent the winter mainly in the US (California-Boston-New York-Philadelphia-New Jersey) for only three (3) weeks. I survived the freezing temperature only because I have 2 suitcases of clothing that I could wear! Glad. I didn't have to travel alone frequently with those two big suitcases!

But for 33 days, I could easily see my winter clothing ensemble to fit at least 2 big suitcases with a carry-on luggage since I want to wear different clothing everyday (for picture purposes)! SO how then can I pack “light” and fit everything in just one medium size luggage with no carry-on? If I don't pack light, I will punish myself carrying all three (3) suitcases as I migrate frequently between countries!

Well, I learn that the trick is to layer, and just change base layer every day AND do my laundry as needed! So, for my final count I am bringing the following items:

2 shoes - a pair of boots a and a water proof sneakers (SUPRA for added height)
2 coats - a water-resistant, black coat and a red cardigan coat for holiday color
4 pairs of socks - one red long (almost a full leggings), two knee-length and one toe socks
5 hooded mufflers - maroon, gray, white, pink and green
1 knitted cap and 2 scarves
6 tops including a thermal wear
6 bottoms - 2 jeggings (jeans leggings, black and blue), 3 leggings (black, white and gray), and a thermal.
10 pair of garments
1 polo shirt (to be worn on flight to Asia)
2 pairs of pajamas
1 pair of black sports attire
2 Sunday's Best clothes

Let's see if this will be enough to carry me through and enjoy the winter holiday without freezing!

Journey To Gutsiness: Un-Buckle Up WIth A Backpack In And Around Davao!

2011-12-05T18:37:00.000-08:00

by: Mhe-anne L. Ojeda

Arrived in Davao International Airport last August 21, 2011. It was my nth time there, but wow felt like a first time. I was in casual attire, carrying only a backpack without any checked in luggage to collect from the carousel, a far cry from the usual deck up during past travels in the largest province of Mindanao.

Soon enough, I realized the daunting task ahead of me! It was my friend Nilo's first time in Davao and he was counting on me to make all the decision - including choosing the cheapest way possible to get to our destination! I may have given him a ~~wrong~~ impression that I know how to commute while in Davao. My previous trips were no help, being all business-related and company arranged for everything including a rental car with driver. Worst, I really can't travel on vehicles without buckling up (though I wasn't driving or sitting in the front seat). Oh yea, George Cayley's seatbelts for me are the greatest invention!!

Stepping out of the airport was met with trepidation. I don't know where to begin (how to get out of the airport even!) on public transportation. But I am determined to give my friend Nilo a good three days in Davao. So let's go, I remember saying to him as I nodded in agreement to a smiling-face guy holding a signage for taxi to the city. It was an SUV (which I thought is a good deal at Php 350 giving us enough space to stretch our legs). But it is a bit old and viola! no seat belts!

"No Fear" I told myself (as if I read the sign on this colorful tricycle in Compostela Valley in my mind!). At this point my unbuckle up in a backpack journey has begun! Oh well, I later realized that with Davao's unique, exciting and varied public transportation, seatbelts are ~~unnecessary~~!

Next to the SUV , the second type of Davao transport we hopped on was the taxi from our hotel to Ecoland Bus Terminal. The trip during early morning cost us Php 60 since taxi fare start at Php 40.00 and will add Php 3.50 per few hundred meters. I sat behind the driver and looked for seat belts but there wasn't any. The travel was fast and smooth though so I soon forgot the need to buckle-up!

From Ecoland Bus Terminal, we boarded a Mallen Express Bus to Cateel, Davao Oriental via Compostela Valley. We were seated in front but opposite side of the driver. Again, I noticed that there was no built - in seat belt. None of the passengers seemed to mind that at all, so I too embraced the five (5) hour - ride on alternating paved and rugged roads without the safety belt! (with silent prayer for Heavenly Father to keep us safe!).

When we got to Cateel, my "un-buckle in a backpack journey" seemed to get more adventurous. I spotted a motorcycle with four persons, with the person sitting sidesaddle on the gas tank in front of the driver. I was told it is called habal - habal and common transport in Cateel to stand the rough, narrow roads. I silently told myself, I will definitely not try the habal-habal, not only I have to buckle up but also I have a motorphobia(or the fear of riding two -wheeled vehicles like bicycles and motorcycles).

I spoke too soon! Our host Rhoderick "Dodong" Emboscado (brother of PTB Olan Fernandez Emboscado) already contacted a motorcycle driver to tour us around. Motorcyles are the cheapest, fastest and most common transport in Cateel, the only option if we want to see the enchanting Aliwagwag Falls located about 45 minutes on rough road from Poblacion. I hesitated big time! But getting the boost and the cheers from friendly Cateelenos, I pushed myself, and had the ultimate heart-pumping thrills of my life - on a motorcycle minus the modified seat for the habal - habal!

Back in Davao City from Cateel and after getting over the motorphobia, I opted for more transport adventure. According to the Davao Tourist Map (I've gotten from the airport), going to Philippine Eagle Center in Brgy. Malagos can either be by bus or jeepney. The jeepney fare is Php 40 while the bus fare is cheaper for only Php 30. But to take the bus, we would have to go to Annil Terminal located at corner of Quirino and San Pedro Extension. We decided to get off at Magsaysay and with the help of local police, flagged the correct jeepney that ply to Calinan. Of course, there was no seat belt, but I don't care anymore.My adventurous nature overpowered me that time, so I enjoyed the ride even though the uso-uso jeepney we boarded was a bit driving fast and playing annoying loud music!

The jeepney driver was very helpful though. When he passed by a bunch of habal-habal, he stopped and asked if they can bring us to the Philippine Eagle Center. I told the driver, we didn't want a habal-habal (coz my backpack is heavy, I don't think I can balance like in Cateel). I told him the map said there are tricyles in Calinan Public Market for Php 10 each and that's what we wanted to try. He obliged. So when we reached the market, he called out for the driver of this unique pedicab which to me looks like a motorized wicker.When we asked the pedicab driver how much the ride to Malagos, he said it is Php 80. I felt that was a rip - off, so I revealed to him that the tourist map was mentioning a Php 10 tricyle ride and a Php 6 pedicab fare. Not sure where the wicker ride fall but Php 80 is too much. He suggested we go to the common terminal which we did.

Inside the Calinan Public Market is a terminal for the shared tricycle for six (6) persons costing Php 10 each. The driver normally fills up his trike before it leaves. Since there were already three (3) passengers when we get there, plus the two of us, I decided to pay for the one passenger missing. That gives me a space for my backpack.(note: my backpack is the black one, but I always carry Nilo's beige backpack coz it is lighter!) It also shielded me from falling out, since I don't have the safety belt!

Returning to Davao City from Malagos, we basically went on the same route on the reverse but this time took the shared air con L300 van from its Calinan terminal instead of jeepney. When we reached the city, we went to People's Park. There, I enjoyed another unique Davao transport - a goat ride! haha. (Well, earlier at the Kadayawan Festival - there were so many colorful transport options. I'll write about it in another post).

I am so happy with this experience. I learn to trust in the Lord to overcome my fears. I know that while I wasn't wearing an actual seat belt around me, Heavenly Father provide me with an invisible one to keep me safe from harm and enjoy one of life's simple pleasure - traveling!

This is my entry to Pinoy Travel Bloggers’ Blog Carnival for December with the theme ‘Memorable Journeys Taken as Traveler’ being hosted by Kara Santos of Travel Up .

For previous Blog Carnival topics please visit Estan Cabigas' Langyaw.

Brunei Trip 2011: Omar Saiffudin Mosque (From Every Angle)

2011-12-03T02:32:00.000-08:00

by: Mhe-anne L. Ojeda

With its marble minarets and golden domes, the Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddin Mosque dominates the skyline and visible virtually anywhere in the Bandar Seri Begawan, the capital of the Sultanate of Brunei. The main dome is covered in pure gold and the main minaret is the mosque's tallest feature in combination of Renaissance and Italian architectural style.

(view of the mosque from Kampong Ayer)

My family and I literally checked the mosque from every angle and count off the different places where we found postcard perfect views of this majestic mosque last September 2-3, 2011. Our first picture was when we were sailing around Kampong Ayer's Water Village

(with my parents and brother Joel at the gate of the mosque)

Named after Omar Ali Saifuddien III, the 28th Sultan of Brunei, the Masjid Omar Ali Saifuddien is an iconic symbol of the Islamic faith. The interior of the mosque has magnificent stained glass windows, Shanghai granite walls, semi domes, Italian marble floors and white columns. Since the inside is for prayer only, taking pictures is not allowed and non-Muslim females (like me,mama and AA) have to wear the abaya available at the entrance. All visitors are required to remove their shoes when entering the mosque.

( with my whole family inside the courtyard)

At the left side of the prayer hall is a door that leads to the courtyards and lush gardens full of fountains. Islam faith believes that mosque symbolizes heaven so it was built in 1958 with an artificial lagoon on the banks of the Brunei River and surrounded by a number of trees and floral. Across the lagoon is a bridge to Kampong Ayer and another marble bridge that leads to the replica of a 16th Century Sultan Bolkiah mahligai barge. The Sultan's mahligai replica was built to commemorate the 1,400th anniversary of Nuzul Al-Quran in 1967.

(near the artificial lagoon)

We enjoyed our tour inside this mosque that Saturday morning, since we missed seeing the inside of the other stunning mosque, Jame' Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque. The mosque is closed to visitors every Thursday and Friday and during the prayer time and we were lucky it fits well with our schedule.

(right side of the mosque)

Another great view of the mosque is from the Taman Sir Omar Ali Saifuddien (like our Rizal Park).From this point, one can have a good picture of the whole mosque showing the highest minaret and its elevator that goes to the top where one can enjoy a panoramic view of the city. It was closed when we visited and we couldn't find anyone to inquire about it.

(taken in front of the Taman Sir Omar Ali Saifuddien)

After dining at our ~~fave~~ Jollibee (yes our Pinoy's fastfood chain), we were surprised to catch a good view of the mosque from the parking lot of the Yayasan Shopping Mall complex.Though a bit far, couple Jojo and AA posed for a picture!

(couple Jojo and AA at the Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Shopping Complex near the mosque)

Journey To Gutsiness: Joining Eat Bulaga's Pinoy Henyo!

2011-11-26T23:52:00.000-08:00

by: Mhe-anne L. Ojeda

Eat Bulaga! is the longest-running and most popular noon-time variety show in the Philippines being aired by GMA Network Weekdays and Saturday at 12:00 pm to 2:30 pm. Ask everyone about Eat Bulaga!and they will say "Pinoy Henyo!". Which makes a lot of sense, since “Eat Bulaga’s” “Pinoy Henyo” quiz is not only entertaining but also educational and the words are within the level of even elementary school kids.

In Pinoy Henyo (or Filipino Genius in English)three teams with two people in each team compete. The guesser must guess the secret word within two (2) minutes by asking questions answerable only by Oo (Yes), Hindi (No) and Pwede (Can Be).Other replies will incur a 3 second penalty for every wrong reply which will be added in the team's official time. Four (4) Dabarkads hold a hidden prize of P10,000, P15,000 and P20,000. The Dabarkads chosen will go to the flushroom. If the contestant guess the word correctly, the Dabarkads is spared from getting wet and the contestant win whatever the prize the Dabarkads is holding. If the pair failed to guess the henyo word, the Dabarkads get wet and the team take home a P5,000 consolation prize. The team with the fastest time, heads to the Jackpot round.

In the Jackpot round, the winning pair will play again following the same concepts except this time, both of them would have to guess the word, taking turns. Also, they are only given one category and is to answer three words correctly in 3 minutes. Each correct answer is P10,000, but if the pair answered 3 words, they take home additional P50,000 pesos.

The November 18, 2011 portion of the Pinoy Henyo's Alumni High Edition was more special compared to the daily Pinoy Henyo that I watched in the past. That time, I was inside Broadway Centrum and one of the competing pairs along with my kuya Mike as partner. The Alumni High Edition requires graduates of high school 5 years ago and onwards, with both contestants in the same graduating class.Since kuya Mike and I were both batch '89 of Pres. Sergio Osmena High School - Manila, we volunteered to be our school's representatives and headed to audition.Luckily we passed and were chosen among 24 other pairs auditioning that day.

Our mutual goal is to make it to the Finals and bag the P500,000.00 grand prize for our alma mater.During audition, we learned that the individual players will also win for themselves a P300,000.00 during the grand finals in addition to the daily prizes.

With a Henyo Word "Palay" or rice grains in English, the first team (Green) had a really tough time to guess. The word was unusually problematic because it cannot fit squarely in the five (5) categories (Tao, Bagay, Pagkain,Hayop at Lugar) with Pagkain the closest. Based on the guidelines for Pagkain - it cannot fit into Ulam, Prutas or Gulay since it is Halaman (plant)or Butil (grains).

Our word was also complicated — Gripo (or faucet). Kuya Mike was chosen to guess the word and he did really well in locking in the word to be located inside the bathroom with only 25 seconds from our time.He was even praised by host Joey De Leon for his category ("may hawakan"). Sadly, he couldn't guess the word in time. It was a fun experience though.

The third pair (Blue), also suffered the same fate as the first and the second teams, although the word they picked out wasn't a Henyo word and quite easy - Ortigas. But as a contestant myself, I can understand the pressure when you are on the Henyo seat. With that none of the three teams played for the Jackpot round.

Here's the link to the video of this gutsy experience - Pinoy Henyo November 18, 2011 - "Volunteer to do something you've never done before " which is one of the 12 life-challenging strategies that Leigh Anne Jasheway-Bryant mentioned in August 9, 2005 Family Circle issue. Although, we were not able to qualify for the grand finals, the experience taught me that stepping outside the box can open endless doors. Many friends told me how they enjoyed watching us and how telegenic we are! See,we might get an offer soon to appear on tv! haha.

P.S. With this I have checked off No.343 in my list of the "2001 Things To Do Before You Die" ~~Be A Game Show Contestant~~

~~INSIDER'S TIP:~~

Feeling Gutsy? Head to Broadway Centrum from 3pm until 5pm Monday to Friday to get application form from the security guard at the gate. Audition starts at 5pm so you should be with your high school batchmate, who graduated from high school at least 5 years ago and have with you your HS diploma or YearBook and a 2 x 2 picture. During audition, you will be given only a minute to guess the word unlike in the actual game. So the key is to be energetic and fun as it won't matter whether you guessed the Pinoy Henyo word or not. Like with our audition, I was given the word Flower Vase which I wasn't able to guess but came close. Kuya Mike was given the word Kidney and had a mental block so didn't even mention the Tao category haha. But well, that landed us the ticket to be the contestant out of the 24 pairs who auditioned November 16, 2011. At 6 in the evening of November 17, 2011 I got a call from Eat Bulaga Pinoy Henyo staff telling me that we will be playing for the November 18, 2011 Pinoy Henyo portion and we have to be there at 9 am! The rest is history!!!

Thanksgiving Celebration: 100 Things I Am Thankful For!

2011-11-25T04:52:00.000-08:00

by: Mhe-anne L. Ojeda

True, I have previously written that Thanksgiving Day is a harvest festival celebrated primarily in the United States and Canada and not nationally celebrated in the Philippines. But Americans or not, we ought to give thanks since it is a commandment by our Heavenly Father in 1 Thessalonians 5:18 ("In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you").

So as and by way of celebrating Thanksgiving Day, I take the challenge to count my blessings! John Hilton III and Anthony Sweat in Liahona December 2011 issue, suggested to list 100 Things You Are Thankful For by breaking those things by 10s.

Ten (10) Physical Abilities I Am Grateful For

One of the great blessings I received when I came to earth is a physical body which was endowed with special gifts, talents and abilities. I am grateful that:

1. I can travel.
2. I can blog and write.
3. I can lead a group.
4. I can scuba dive.
5. I can play chess and scrabble.
6. I can parasail.
7. I can sing.
8. I can swim.
9. I can do river rafting.
10.I can dance.

Ten (10) Material Possessions I Am Grateful For

1. Passport with Visas to the United States, United Kingdom, Schengen countries, Australia, China, South Korea.
2. SUVs to make traveling easier.
3. House and Lot.
4. Watches.
5. Dresses and Shoes.
6. Bank Accounts.
7. Law Office.
8. Books (Own for royalty, and those books as tools of the trade).
9. Investment Funds.
10.Appliances.

Ten (10) Living People I Am Grateful For

1. My loving and supportive parents.
2. My bestfriend Dearie.
3. My caring boyfriend Mark Poff.
4. My family (brothers, sisters-in-laws, and 12 nieces and nephews).
5. My extended families (Ojeda and Lavarro clans).
6. My LDS Friends (mission companions,childhood friends and Office of General Counsel Colleagues and Deparo Ward Family).
6. My very reliable driver - Jojo Bautista.
7. My J. Reuben Clark Law Society members.
8. My unselfish generous couch surfing friend in Brunei - Jonathan Beveridge
9. My High School Friends, College Girlfriends, Law School Friends and colleagues.
10.My Pinoy Travel Bloggers new friends and acquaintances.

Ten (10) Deceased People I Am Grateful For

1. Prophet Joseph Smith
2. Pres. Gordon B.Hinckley.
3. Dr. Jose Rizal.
4. Uncle Ramon Ojeda
5. Grandpa Eulogio Ojeda.
6. Grandma Modesta Ojeda.
7. Grandpa Luis Lavarro.
8. Uncle Isagani Lavarro.
9. Uncle Wilfredo Ojeda.
10.Friend Leni Pelobello.

Ten (10) Things About Nature I Am Grateful For

1. Sunrise.
2. Sunset.
3. Trees.
4. Beaches.
5. Waterfalls.
6. Rivers.
7. Mountains.
8. Tropical Climate.
9. Snow.
10.Sunshine.

Ten (10) Things About Today I Am Grateful For

1. Chatting with Mark.
2. Mark sending a ticket reservation for our trip in Germany and a hotel reservation in Munic Germany for five days.
3. Getting My UK visa after a day's wait (although I was advised I will get it in 3-5 days!).
4. Being issued a World All-Risk Travel Insurance instead of an insurance required for Schengen countries in just 30 minutes.
5. Getting a Schengen visa interview schedule at the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany for a Monday schedule.
6. Having an hour body massage and half - hour foot spa at Tonton's Massage in Greenhills.
7. Being able to park at a private parking space in Annapolis Greenhills.
8. Having a reliable and dependable driver who helped me do no. 3 to 7 on time!
9. Getting a court decision on the Annulment case of a friend client who is wanting to marry.
10.Having kuya Mike as a paralegal who juggles his time to do all the office stuff including getting a copy of the court decision!

Ten (10) Places On Earth I Am Grateful For

1. Philippines' Beaches.
2. Utah's Salt Lake Temple, General Conference Center and Church facilities.
3. Niagara Falls.
4. Great Wall of China.
5. Paris Eiffel Tower.
6. Australia's Opera House.
7. Historic Kirtland (Ohio, USA).
8. Historic Palmyra (New York, USA)
9. Sweden's Royal Palace.
10.Homey New Jersey.

Ten (10) Modern Inventions I Am Grateful For

1. Computer (Laptop, Netbook, Deskstop).
2. Cellphones.
3. Telephones.
4. Refrigerator.
5. Hair Dryer.
6. Electric Chair Massager and foot massager.
7. Airplanes.
8. Cars.
9. Television.
10.Oven.

Ten (10) Foods I Am Grateful For

1. Chocolates.
2. Shrimp and Crabs.
3. Pesto Pasta.
4. Watermelon.
5. Ice cream and Yogurt.
6. Korean Ramen (kimchi noodle).
7. Sprite or 7-Up.
8. Gummi Bears.
9. Chicken Wings.
10.Chowking Lomi.

Ten (10) Things About The Gospel I Am Grateful For

I can't imagine what my life would be like without the blessings of the gospel and I am grateful each day for the blessings of:

1. A true knowledge that God is our Heavenly Father.
2. The full gospel of Jesus Christ.
3. Opportunity to become a famiy forever through Family Home Evenings.
4. Temple Marriage and sealings that are binding on earth as well as in heaven.
5. A true prophet and church leaders to guide.
6. Opportunities for service to others.
7. The Book of Mormon and other scriptures (Bible, Doctrine and Covenants, Pearl of Great Price)
8. Sunday School.
9. The Priesthood.
10.Relief Society.

How about you?What are your 100 Things You Are Grateful For?

Mindanao Bliss: Cateel, Davao Oriental!

2011-11-17T08:15:00.000-08:00

by: Mhe-anne L. Ojeda

I have been in many places in Mindanao.
In fact, I went white water rafting in Cagayan De Oro, did a tour in Marawi, saw sunken cemetery in Camiguin,rode the colorful tricycle in Bukidnon,awed by the majestic Maria Cristina Falls in Iligan City, lakeside viewing in Lake Mainit of Surigao, enjoyed the downpour in Sagpulon Waterfalls in Misamis Oriental, cruised along Agusan River in Butuan, swam in Pearl Farm in Samal Island and enjoyed Kadayawan Festival and nature tripping in Davao City. Still, I can't say that I've been in Mindanao (or the whole of it) since Mindanao encompasses six administrative regions which are further subdivided into 26 provinces. At most, I have been to Northern Mindanao and a few places in Southern Mindanao.

As Mindanao is the second largest group of islands in the Philippines (Luzon being the largest and Visayas the smallest in terms of land area), a random visit to a few places will not justify a label - positive or negative for the whole of Mindanao. So depending on who writes it, Mindanao is stereotyped either as the " notoriously turbulent area " or a Land of Promise. Conflicting right? With that I learned not to just take the writer's word for it. For the ones that are known to be tension-free like the ones I visited, I come to see it for myself!

And so it was for Cateel, one of the oldest towns in northeastern Davao Oriental. Travel Teller Olan Emboscado's entry to Hometown Blog Carnival in May 2011 that I hosted gave me a foretaste of Cateel's pride like the majestic Aliwagwag Falls. The pictures on Travel Teller's post are postcard perfect. But I knew that Cateel really has to be seen in person to be appreciated. So aboard the Mallen Express, my friend Nilo and I left Davao City at 5 in the morning last August 22, 2011. We didn't have reservations but glad the front seats were vacant. The next five (5) hours travel on alternating paved and rugged roads via Compostela Valley was filled with fun anticipation but with a slight worry of the unknown since Cateel is in the outskirts. To date, this trip maybe my bravest stint in traveling.But it is so worth it!

The Municipality of Cateel ( named after a kind of rattan that abounds in the place) is bounded on the North by the Municipality of Boston, on the east by the Pacific Ocean, on the South by the Municipality of Baganga, and on the west by Compostela Valley. In October 29, 1903, Cateel was created as a municipality under the American military government with a long and varied history in its cap. I learned that the Spaniards took the town in 1614, but lost it to the Americans in 1900. Now, Cateel will personally be remembered as home to my memorable moments of friendship, adventure, excitement, pleasures and delights in another place in Mindanao. Truly, there is so - called Mindanao Bliss.

Friendship and Adventure

Arrived in Cateel at around 11 in the morning. PTB Olan's brother Roderick "Dodong" Emboscado picked us up from the bus station and brought us to their home where we have stayed for the night. He also contacted a motorcycle owner who was our adventure buddy for the day.

Motorcyles is the easiest, cheapest and fastest way to travel the off-roads condition on the way to Barangay Aliwagwag, the home of the enchanting Aliwagwag Falls. Problem is I have a motorphobia (or the fear of riding two -wheeled vehicles like bicycles and motorcycles).Thanks to the friendly and helpful motorcycle driver slash tour guide slash photographer and other neighbors. Sitting at the rear for 45 minutes one way from Poblacion to Barangay Aliwagwag, I had the ultimate heart-pumping thrills of my life. And Aliwagwag Falls did not disappoint.

Excitement, Pleasures and Delights

Aliwagwag Falls is said to be the highest in the Philippines with 1,110 feet and one of the most beautiful falls in Mindanao. It is a series of 84 falls cascading like stairway to heaven with various heights among the steps in the midst of virgin forest. I felt a sense of pride for overcoming my fear and not missing this majestic beauty. I bet, I am one of the few travelers who are able to see the Aliwagwag Falls up close and personal.

We wrapped up our Cateel scenic nature tour enjoying the Maglahus Bridge (which again I have a phobia but I managed to cross it while playing with the kids), sunset viewing and sumptuous dinner at Santa Filomena Beach, visit to the St. James Church and enjoying the cool night at the Cateel Centennial Park with the tallest Jose Rizal Monument. Indeed, an overnight pack trip of another Mindanao Bliss! But don't take my word for it,come and visit Cateel to agree!!!

This is my entry to Pinoy Travel Bloggers’ Blog Carnival for November with the theme ‘Mindanao Bliss’ being hosted by Travel Teller Olan Fernandez Emboscado.
For previous Blog Carnival topics please visit Estan Cabigas' Langyaw.

Jose Rizal At 150 Heritage Trail: First National Hero's Monument In Daet, Camarines Norte! !

2011-11-02T17:08:00.000-07:00

by: Mhe-anne L. Ojeda

The long weekend was an opportunity to pick up on my Lakbay Jose Rizal 150 Heritage Trail through a road trip with my family. Our destination? my parents hometown Daet, Camarines Norte to see the "First Rizal Monument" in the Philippines!

Located across the Daet Heritage Center, we easily found a white three-tiered 15-feet stone pylon monument with the words 'A Jose Rizal' (To Jose Rizal).Noticeably though, this monument has no sculptured image of our national hero unlike many monuments I have seen in his honor. Instead, the top most triangle has a five - pointed star and atop it is a sun with eight rays (not seen on this picture).

Based on the small black metal marker installed by the National Historical Commission in 1961, the erection of this Rizal monument is "through the voluntary contributions of the people of Camarines Norte led by Lt. Colonels Antonio Sanz and Ildefonso Alegre of the Revolutionary Army".

I have never felt so proud of my hometown after reading the marker! Not only it is home to the first historical landmark unveiled on December 30, 1898, only two years after the martyrdom of our national hero, but CamNorte also holds the title of being the first town to celebrate Rizal Day.

Inscribed on the other square podiums are three of Dr. Jose Rizal’s popular novels — ”Noli Me Tangere” (1887), “Morga” (1889) which is said to be a tribute to Spanish colonization historian Antonio de Morga and “El Filibusterismo” (1891).

I'm glad I have invited my parents to join me in my Lakbay Jose Rizal Heritage Trail. Looks like my parents might be back to their hometown every December 30 to join in the celebration.

Updating My Wardrobe With Cubik Eyewear!!

2011-10-15T06:13:00.000-07:00

by: Mhe-anne L. Ojeda

I love this picture showing the Crown Fountain at Millennium Park in Chicago,Illinois (USA). You can easily spot the difference between me and the Chicagoan on the screen! That's right! I am wearing eyeglasses, particularly prescription eyeglasses.

I've been wearing eyeglasses for almost two decades now.But unlike others, my eyeglass prescriptions frequently changes, almost every three weeks! Blame it (I don't!) on my sugar level that fluctuates being a borderline diabetic. So I need a new pair of eyeglasses as often as the season changes.

Good thing there is Cubik Eyewear and its affordable style and quality. With the many different frame styles, shapes,sizes and colors, I can always find a new eyewear that complements my lifestyle - as a serious lawyer and a bubbly traveler!

There's nothing like being able to maintain my active lifestyles despite my condition with the practical solution of a pair of prescription eyeglasses! Instead of shoes or fashionable clothes, my wardrobe really consists of the several pairs of eyeglasses which comes in different colors and styles to match my clothing and my current activity- serious or not. Call me an instant fashionista (or one with Dave and Wally with my "Do No Evil" pose (lol)!

Having said that, the key to updating my prescription eyewear wardrobe (often!)is affordability and safety. I trust Cubik Eyewear in both respects. I can get a new pair of eyewear without causing a dent on my shallow pocket with the help of their licensed and knowledgeable opticians and ophthalmologists. See how comforting that is with this pose at the Maroon Bells in Aspen, Colorado (USA)!

Now it's time to update my eyewear wardrobe (again!) to drive this red Volvo car. I am going crazy with "CUBIK T 105 C 3 TITANIUM RED"! check this why!

And I just might win this Cubik eyewear simply by joining the Cubik Eyewear Blogging Contest! How lucky could I get!!!

Blog Birthday Post: Deplaned In Fifteen (15) of the Top 20 Busiest Airports!

2011-10-11T21:54:00.000-07:00

by: Mhe-anne L. Ojeda

"My Comings and Goings" blog is three years old today. Yipee!! I can't believe how time flies! From being an online version of my journal (which I have been keeping since 1987), it evolves into a travel blog when I joined the Pinoy Travel Bloggers (PTB) sometime in April of this year.

As a travel blog, it has now 40 followers, 18,589 page views, 450 published posts and a three (3) month worth of backlogs! (haha). My PTB family has fueled my passion for traveling and blogging through their interesting blogs.(Thanks to You!!)Now, I am really pumped up with traveling and checking off some bucket lists!
(inside the Changi Singapore Airport)

So, as and by way of a mini celebration (from a mini princess!), I write about the most important element of my traveling - the airports! (Click for my In Flight Series!)

Recently I saw About.Com's List of Twenty Busiest Airports In The World based on the data from the Airports Council International. It excites me to know that I have enplaned and deplaned (but not slept) in the fifteen (15) of the 20 busiest airports since I started traveling in 2000.

1. Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport

Date Deplaned: August 2000
Hearty Fact: Wide Walkways

2. Beijing Capital International Airport
Date Deplaned: January 2008
Hearty Fact: Free Trolley
(not inside the airport)

3. O'Hare International Airport (Chicago)
Date Deplaned: August 2, 2011
Hearty Fact: Neon - filled walkway and Brachiosaurus skeleton display

4. *Heathrow Airport (London)

5. Haneda Airport (Tokyo)
Date Deplaned: June 30, 2011
Hearty Fact: Spotless Bidet Toilets!

6. Los Angeles International Airport
Date Deplaned: August 2000
Hearty Fact: First US airport I deplaned on so tolerable I guess(can't remember it was more than a decade ago!)

7. Paris-Charles de Gaulle Airport
Date Deplaned: July 2007
Hearty Fact: Romantic Feel!! (I was meeting my prince for the first time in the most romantic place on earth!)

8. Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport
Date Deplaned: September 2000
Hearty Fact: Awesome Sky Link

*9. Frankfurt Airport (Germany)

10. Denver International Airport
Date Deplaned: July 14, 20 & 21 2000
Hearty Fact: Attractive Public Arts and Free Wi-Fi

11. Hong Kong International Airport
Date Deplaned: Frequent from August 2005 - August 2011
Hearty Fact: Flat Elevators

*12. Madrid Barajas Airport

*13. Dubai International Airport (United Arab Emirates)

14. John F. Kennedy International Airport (New York City)
Date Deplaned: February 2001 & February 2009
Hearty Fact: Seats with armrest

15. Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (Netherlands)
Date Deplaned: July & August, 2007
Hearty Fact: It's tarmac is possible backdrop for a dream wedding! (That time not for me! Look at my shirt!)

16. Soekarno-Hatta International Airport (Jakarta, Indonesia)
Date Deplaned: August 2000
Hearty Fact: Every Restroom has attendant!

17. Bangkok International Airport (Thailand)
Date Deplaned: August 2000
Hearty Fact: Spacious

18. Singapore Changi Airport
Date Deplaned: September 26, 2008 & October 4, 2008
Hearty Fact: Skytrain and the "green" walls (garden walls)

*19.Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (China)

20. Shanghai Pudong International Airport (China)
Date Deplaned: May 2006, December 2007 & January 2008
Hearty Fact: Good Ambience

Here's to many more years of happy flights...in a busy but hopefully not boring airports!!!

*have not deplaned yet.hopefully soon.

Dark Tourism: Manila American Cemetery & Memorial

2011-10-04T03:01:00.000-07:00

by: Mhe-anne L. Ojeda

Whenever asked to prepare an itinerary for my friends or couchsurfers visiting Manila for a few days (or even just a few hours), I always instinctively include a tour of the Manila American Cemetery and Memorial.

Located at Fort Bonifacio in the district of Taguig, the cemetery and memorial is one of the twenty-three military cemeteries on foreign soil being maintained by the American Battle Monuments Commission of the United States government.

A walk through the 152 acres of land (which was donated by the Philippine government) and developed as the Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific at Manila, you will see neat white crosses (and stars) of those 17,206 American military whose remains were interred there.

(white Stars of David represents that the soldiers' who have died in combat is a Jewish)

Among those represented by the white crosses are 3,744 servicemen from the US, Philippines, Guam,Panama, Puerto Rico, Canada, China,Costa Rica, England, Finland, Honduras, Jamaica, Mexico,Peru, and New Zealand, whose identities are "Known Only To God" which is inscribed in the Memorial Hall.

Also inscribed on the walls at the Memorial Hall are the names of 36,285 Americans whose remains were never found or identified. This inscription reminds one that not all who died in World War II are buried in quiet fields of green. Many slipped beneath the waves of the oceans on which they sailed and on which they died.

The Manila American Cemetery and Memorial is open as early as 6:00am until 4:45pm daily. Because of its close proximity to the airport and charging no entrance fee, I have given many of my foreign and local friends alike a tour of this hallowed resting place.

For this month's Pinoy Travel Bloggers Blog Carnival, seasoned blogger Gael Hilotin a.k.a thepinaysolobackpacker will host the topic "Dark Tourism: Philippines in Focus". She defines Dark Tourism as the act of travel and visitation to sites, attractions and exhibitions which have real or recreated death, suffering or seemingly macabre as a main theme (e.g cemeteries, war memorials, century old churches, mausoleums).

As a Latter-Day Saint traveler, I see a big connection with death and traveling. In the words of LDS modern day apostle Elder Russel M.Nelson, he said: “This life [was to become] a probationary state; a time to prepare to meet God.” (Alma 12:24.) But we regarded the returning home as the best part of that long-awaited trip, just as we do now. Before embarking on any journey, we like to have some assurance of a round-trip ticket. Returning from earth to life in our heavenly home requires passage through—and not around—the doors of death. We were born to die, and we die to live. (See 2 Cor. 6:9.) As seedlings of God, we barely blossom on earth; we fully flower in heaven".

"Meanwhile, we who tarry here on earth have a few precious moments remaining “to prepare to meet God.” (Alma 34:32.) Today we have a little more time to bless others—time to be kinder, more compassionate, quicker to thank and slower to scold, more generous in sharing, more gracious in caring".

Some of those friends I brought to the Manila American Cemetery and Memorial.

Other thoughts on Death and Dying:

“All that we can know about those we have loved and lost,is that they would wish us to remember them with a more intensified realization of their reality. … The highest tribute to the dead is not grief but gratitude.”- Thornton Wilder

““I have been shown in the files of the War Department a statement of the Adjutant General of Massachusetts that you are the mother of five sons who have died gloriously on the field of battle. I feel how weak and fruitless must be any words of mine which should attempt to beguile you from the grief of a loss so overwhelming. But I cannot refrain from tendering to you the consolation that may be found in the thanks of the republic they died to save. I pray that our Heavenly Father may assuage the anguish of your bereavement, and leave you only the cherished memory of the loved and lost, and the solemn pride that must be yours to have laid so costly a sacrifice upon the altar of freedom.-“Yours very sincerely and respectfully, “Abraham Lincoln.”

Sources:
Elder Russel M.Nelson
Pres.Thomas S.Monson

This is my entry to the Pinoy Travel Bloggers’ Blog Carnival for October 2011 with the theme. For previous blog carnival post please click Pinoy Travel Bloggers Blog Carnival

My 38 Big Loves!

2011-10-01T04:28:00.000-07:00

by: Mhe-anne L. Ojeda

It's that time of the year again when I am the focus of my family, friends and prince (cheesy!). Right! It's my birthday!! yipeee!!!

But wait. Days before my birthday I actually want to pretend my birthday isn't happening and just wanna sleep the whole day (birthday blues?nah),maybe just for a change.

Sure! I already slept in during my 2008 birthday but that didn't count as I was on a week-long birthday getaway with prince in Macau-Hongkong. I had birthdays on the road, island adventures in Kota Kinabalu , hanging in Singapore Flyer and Skyride, up on the mountain in Provo,Utah, and lotza, lotza big theme parties so this time want some me-time (emote! emote), with no surprises, no gifts, no parties. (is that a sign of getting old?)

Thankfully, I have wonderful friends and family that always make a big deal of my birthday! Seems everyone would wanna come out and show their love and spend the day with me. Also I realized that my birthday is an unsolicited 'gift' for my 38 precious years and that in itself is a big reason to celebrate!

So as and by way of a compromise, I decided to have some food prepared on my birthday and post a rather late invite on FB! (not that i don't want people to come but i was undecided right?).

That was a good decision. I feel so much love on my 38th birthday either through spoken words of I Love You's from greeters in person,on the phone, on texts,on FB messages, on emails and on the mail. And by those suggestive 143's around me. (Hey, in case you don't know yet, 143 stands for I love You)!!

Here are the Ten Big Loves (143's) I received on my 38th birthday!

1. Thank you to the 143 birthday greeters on my FB wall from 12:01 of October 1 until 11:59 of October 1 who are either my church friends, relatives, colleagues, law students, bloggers family, college friends, high school buddies, law school classmates, San Pablo Mission mates, and even my prince' family. (1.PTB Pinoy Adventurista, 2. PTB Lauren Gaile, 3. Let Bautista, 4. Angel Lois Fernandez, 5. Lingling Gilmartin, 6.Gladyz Credo,7. Beth Directo, 8. Marissa Morelos Baluyot, 9. Grace Angeles, 10. Ruth Joaquino Herrera,11.Bernz Roque, 12. Charmily Lavarro, 13. Jack Stokes, 14. Venus Saba Seals, 15. Hannah Stokes, 16. Shelly Sy Requiron, 17. Russel Riel, 18. Adela Ocado, 19. Elizabeth Andrea Salvan,20. Liam Langam Dala, 21.Minerva de Leon Lee,22. PTB Ivan Brinas Cultura,23. Angeline Ojeca Villanueva,24. Micaela Rodriguez,25. Bjorn M.Madrid, 26. Jennifer Merdegia,27. Angie Silva Liwanag, 28. Eumer Manlusoc Geronilla, 29. Anj Banal,30.Issa Collantes, 31. Chie Ojeda Solomon, 32. Judith Mascardo Pua, 33. Malou Gaddi, 34. Fhatz Togonon, 35. Tess Ojeda Mendoza, 36. Princess Cyndyrella 37.Catherine Indac Kaloush, 38. Rez Cortez, 39. Vivay Sta.Monica, 40. Ma. Anacleta B.Gloria, 41. Jean Carlos, 42. Ma Cristina Canals Espiritu, 43. Brenda Pulia, 44. Babylin Clavite, 45.Juvy Ann Guzarin, 46.Neotono No Evishley, 47.Lherma Bonagua, 48. PTB Marky Ramone Go, 49.Anne Adaza Renner, 50.Sarah Dalman, 51.Bryan Colona, 52. Nikki Madriaga, 53. Jane Cabugao, 54. Tina Capati, 55. Anthony Carl Ong, 56.Jane Labuca Ugsod, 57.Annestien Ong, 58.Merril J.Tobias, 59.Atty. Cheng Parenas Garcia, 60. Kate Laurenne Servanez Belleza, 61.Alyz Perez Ignacio, 62.PTB Josiah Sicad, 63. Lanie Montano, 64. Hydee Nazareno, 65.Kymie Caldamo, 66.Shiela Caballero Balane, 67.Szu Xhin Sayaka, 68.Kate Ojeda Ramos, 69. Kalai Vanessa Sarabia Wan, 70. Jean Bautista de Leon, 71. Fiscal JonJon Roque Jr., 72. Dawn Montez, 73. Jovelyn Abugan Dagal, 74.PTB Ian Dela Pena, 75.Jocai Sarion, 76. Rigel Quinto, 77.Rosario C. Selma, 78. Mafel Hebulan, 79. Taritz Ritzmrbc (Rita Consumo) 80.Feliza Bernardo Tablan Obuyes, 81.Porfirio Don Pagsinohin 82.Atty.Zaniah Siton, 83.Clarissa Angelica Galang, 84.Rona Demetria, 85. Gerlie Macalincag, 86.Frizian C. Esteban-Capinig, 87.Atty.Merz Flores, 88.Ces Leon Tianio, 89.Nornyl Sampang, 90.Sally Velasco, 91.Edz Ang,92.Harrizon Stokes, 93.Charlote Placido Jornacion, 94.Bou Sheng Chou, 95.Yolly Alvarez Ojeda, 96.Lorena Macaspac,97.Atty. Marie Antoniette Sto.Domingo Espejo, 98.Emma Cristobal Garcia, 99.Jettie Mae Evangelista Tuttle, 100. Lloyd Lostboy, 101.Kate Ojeda Ramos, 102.Prince Fernandez, 103.Zaide Uy, 104.Chito Zabala, 105.Arlene Quirante, 106.Nilo M.Penales, 107.Chel Leena, 108.Ruby Ann Ocampo, 109.Cherry Mae Baldomero Gallarpe, 110.Joseh Buenbajo Bornilla, 111.Anna Lisa Seva, 112.Anthony Galorpo, 113.Ofelia Bastillo, 114.Celestine Gabriel Caingat, 115.Joseph Fabila Barcenal, 116.Elizabeth Contratista, 117.Atty. Alemar Mosquito 118.Hannah Carlota Seva, 119.Atty. Caron Lascano, 120.Buena Combes Aguilar, 121.Jhoanna Lozano, 122.Anna Salayog, 123.Domini Thereza Manzano -Pecundo, 124. Rhea Alba, 125.Manny Francisco, 126.Erlinda Santos, 127.Monet Espinosa Salonga, 128.Parker Stokes, 129.Arenas May, 130. Ariel Sarabia, 131.Evelyn Delacruz Sarmiento, 132.Teresita Tomas, 133.Jay Jasper Javines, 134.Teofanes Jamero, 135.Ruby and Roy Evangelista Tuttle, 136.Elisa Ojeda - Misola, 137.Anne Valle Balanlay, 138.Kaye Tyapon-Bay, 139.Judee Albalos Ablang,140. Justin Norell, 141.Lieu Tran, 142.Travis Reitz 143.AndrewRia Evangelista Gonzales.

2)In connection with my 143 wall post on my exact birthday, I clicked 143 'likes'.

3. Still on FB, posted 1 birthday status slash invite which elicited 43 comments (includes greetings from Love Directo Calpo, Ariel Zamora, Armi Dionisio, Cynthia Ampil, Roy Christenon,Delilah Fernandez Serafica, Chad Meredith West, Riza Mendoza Maginsay, Arce Coronel Morales, David Sanglap, Atty.Abby Orilla - Orara, Angeline Gabisan, Felisa Santos, Marivic Tablatin, Jhelia Punzalan Lucero, Rosita Flores,Belenda Ojeda, Tes Bridgman, Cielito M.Versoza, Charito Catada Kent,Cheter A. Demetrio, Julie Stokes, Vivian Tyapon, Joel Lavarro Ojeda, Atty.Bibs Bustamante).

4) 14 text messages (Judith Mayocyoc, Jean Marcaida,Ping Olivare, Manulife family, Reynard Saldana, Grace Tabujara, Joel Ojeda, Imee Ojeda family, Amelyn Ojeda, Jay-A Ojeda,Mitch Ojeda, JM Ojeda, Michael Anthony Ojeda, and Sister Margo)and 3 phone calls from my prince, my BFF Dearie and my parents (in the order of time of calls of the three most important people in my life!)

5) 1 material gift (wallet from my neighbor), 4 cakes and 3 greetings on the mail!

6)I literally did the 1 (Smile) 4 (Nap) 3 (Meditate) of Michael Moniz' 101 Simple Ways To Make Yourself Happy

7) My 38 Birthday means 1 Videoke and 43 singers who attended the small get-together (20 kiddos, 10 from church, 10 families and 3 neighbors).

8)A heartfelt 143 to those who greeted me well in advance on FB(Chito Zabala, Judith Mayocyoc, Leily Tumulak),and those who sent chats or email (Aries Leonor, PTB Claire Raborar, Mary Claire Tia, Ma. Theresa Baul, Racquel De Los Santos, Noel Sandoval,Carol Velasquez,George Ojeda, Milleth Maningas Rivera, Volet Leonor Abad, Atty.Vivian Mac, Elma Gaoat Toleda, and Jeremy Mass)

9)To complete my greeters, I appreciate and say 143 to the 4 girls who came for a post- birthday celebration (Jean Marcaida, Mary Claire Tia, Arlene Quirante and Jeniecris) and those who send belated birthday greetings on FB (Helen Soque Ucat McEntire, Juliet Vallejos, K.C.Hawkes, Ruth Jackson Evangelista, Helen Isernhagen, Atty. Robert "Obetsky Cool", Arlene Bautista Nebab, Aya Palillo, TravisJessica Golding, Atty.Ed Allan Lindain, Penny Eleazar, Glenda Rojas Belnas, Genalin Dichoso Flaminiano, Elma De Jesus Lungca, Atty. Jeanne Serrano, Emily Sofia Arteche, PTB Sol Victorioso, PTB Edelito Sangco and PTB Gael Hilotin)

10. And last but not the least, my most anticipated 143 Journeys was revealed on my big day! (I will keep it a secret for now until it happened!)

Brunei Trip 2011: Kampong Kiarong Mosque (Jame' Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque)

2011-09-22T05:22:00.000-07:00

by: Mhe-anne L. Ojeda

Location: Kampong Kiarong (Jame'Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque)
Date: September 2-3, 2011

* Visit to Brunei Darussalam or Bandar Seri Begawan with papa, mama, brother Joel, friend couple Jojo and Alexis Aubrey last September 1-4, 2011.

There isn't much to do at night in Brunei Darussalam. Well, yea for those who love to party and bar hop. But for me and my family who love every golden opportunity (to see gold that glitters that is!), Kampong Kiarong is the right place!

Kampong Kiarong near the capital Bandar Seri Begawan is home to the magnificent Jame' Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque also locally -known as the Kiarong Mosque because of its location. With its glittering golden domes and minarets, it was truly stunning at night and could be every photographers dream!

Opened on 14 July 1994 to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the accession to the throne of His Majesty, the Sultan and Yang Di Pertuan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu'izzaddin Waddaulah, the whole edifice was so impressive that we took lots of pictures at every angle.

No doubt this mosque is the grandest structure I have ever seen during my world travels and was a real treat to the eyes for my family during their first trip out of the country. For Brunei, the Kiarong Mosque is the largest monument to Islam.

The architectural artistry of the exterior is so meticulous, and the landscaped gardens and fountains made it even more impressive. We would have wanted to see the interior but the mosque was closed during our visit. The visiting hours is from Sunday to Wednesday at 8am to 12noon, 2pm to 3pm & 5pm to 6pm.

Because of our limited time in Brunei we weren't able to come back during day time and totally missed seeing the inside of the Jame' Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque. But our consolation is this picture taken aboard the bus going to Kampong Kiarong. With its sea-blue roof, slender minarets and golden dome, the Kiarong Mosque is by no means magnificent both day and night!

Brunei Trip 2011: Kampong Ayer (Water Village)!

2011-09-20T22:35:00.000-07:00

by: Mhe-anne L. Ojeda

Location: Kampong Ayer (Water Village)
Date: September 2, 2011
*Branding and cliches of comparing tourist spots with that of another country reminded me of our recent visit to the so- called Venice of the East - the Kampong Ayer of Brunei! Honestly, it was the branding that made us include the place in our itinerary.

But truth be told, Kampong Ayer or Brunei's Water Village is no Venice, not even the water taxi that we took came close to being Venice's well decorated, fascinating water taxis!

Were we disappointed? Of course not.On the contrary, we had the most enjoyable and culturally enriching scenic boat ride around the 4,200 structures (i.e. homes, mosques, hospital, schools, restaurants and shops) on stilts on Brunei River.

Kampong Ayer has its own charm and could easily find its way to every traveler's must-do/must - see list during their trip to Bandar Seri Begawan.

It was the second day of Hari Raya Aidil Fitri when we headed to Kampong Ayer. That means, most of the 30,000 inhabitants of the water village were either attending the sunnah prayers at the mosque or attending the Open House at the Palace. But we were lucky to spot a water taxi whose driver was a willing tour guide!

Also our tour guide/driver is a Kampong Ayer resident who gave us a lesson on Brunei's history and culture during the one hour tour that cost us $25 Brunei Dollars (Php 850) for six persons. It was worth it!

What we learned:

1.Kampong Ayer consist of 42 clusters of homes organized into six (6) water village mukims (or districts) for administrative purposes. Each of the districts are connected by wooden walkways and foot bridges and provided each with a school and a mosque. (Bruneian's put premium on education and religion!)

2. Kampong Ayer is a living heritage of Brunei's river dwelling origin as people have lived there for over 1,300 years! As such it is far better than going to a museum in trying to understand the country's culture and history.(This is our justification for not trying so hard to check the Brunei museum!)

(in Kampong Ayer old and young do mix well!)

3. In the same way as the structures are reflected on the water, Kampong Ayer is architecturally a reflection of Brunei's unique wooden homes, which without the help of our tour guide, we thought were slums. We stopped in front of our tour guide's home and although we didn't get in (since his whole family was gone), we were able to peek and see that his simple home from the outside(as with the others) is equipped with modern amenities including air conditioning, satellite television, Internet access, plumbing, and electricity.(Brunei's government put premium in preserving heritage but keeping pace with modern times)

4. In addition to the school and mosque, the government provide each of the mukims with foot-bridges, concrete jetties, piped water, electricity supplied telephones, clinics, a police station and a marine fire station in its effort to encourage Kampong Ayer residents to stay afloat to preserve Brunei Darussalam cultural heritage.

5.I believe there is a truth in the claim that Kampong Ayer is the largest Malay Water Village in the World and the most famous in Southeast Asia. Personally, Kampong Ayer could also be the most beautiful with the Omar Saiffudin Mosque in the background!

Brunei Trip 2011: Hari Raya Open House At The Palace!

2011-09-19T05:22:00.000-07:00

by: Mhe-anne L. Ojeda

Date: September 2, 2011
Location: Istana Nurul Aman (Brunei's Royal Palace)

Hari Raya Aidilfitri, otherwise known as Eid ul-Fitr, is celebrated in a major way in Brunei Darussalam. It marks the end of the holy month of Ramahdan (a month-long abstinence from food and drinks for the muslim community). But the start of the Hari Raya Aidilfitri (the name itself means 'day of celebration') is not fixed because it depends on when the new moon is sighted.

So Hari Raya Aidilfitri this year started August 31 and that is the most joyous day in the Muslim calendar!

Every year during the Hari Raya Aidilfitri, the Sultan of Brunei generously opens his palace to the public for three (3) days to 'greet and meet' the royal family. For Bruneian, foreign residents and visitors, it is only during these three days that they can get to shake hands with the royal family and enjoy a free meal for the whole year, so thousands and thousands of people flock to the palace each day of those three days!

It was a wonderful and amazing experience for me and my family to be in the middle of this colorful, festive and unique celebration in Brunei. Yes! we made it to the Royal Open House at the Istana Nurul Aman!

The process for going to the palace is that you just go to the palace either in the morning or in the afternoon. The palace starts receiving visitors from 8am for the 'meet and greet' schedule at 10am-12nn which continues for the 2pm -4pm slot. Since we didn't know much about the whole process and expected thousands of people to be there (first day visitors was 36,000 according to the news), we decided to be at the palace first thing in the morning. We can't miss it for anything! (yea,even if it means getting only a four-hour sleep).

Because this is a not-to-miss experience, we availed of our hotel's shuttle service (BND $20 one - way) which took us to the palace in 20 minutes.

From the Istana Nurul Aman gate, there are buses that will take you to the Palace Reception Hall for free. You would have to fight your way to get on the bus though because most Bruneians don't or aren't schooled in queuing. We managed to get on the fourth bus when we realized it was the case haha.The bus trip was only for about five (5) minutes.

There was a huge crowd already when we got to the entrance. I registered our names in one of the many registration tables and indicated 6 pax from the Philippines. Then as we get to the first security line, men and women were separated so for awhile it was only me, my mom and AA (with papa,Joel and Jojo in the male's line).

We have no idea where the two lines for female would lead us until I saw the gold - trimmed chinaware. The queue is for the macam buffet! Had we not stuffed ourselves with the hotel's free buffet breakfast, we would have done the Bruneian way - elbowing out to get to the food counter first!

There were about 10 different food counters,on each side where you could get rice and all manner of different dishes.

Hungry or not, I got a little of everything and a lot of my favorite sambal shrimp! I was amazed with AA who got a plateful of food (she didn't finish it but really good for the picture).

At this point too,we were able to meet the guys and shared the feast together after finding a good seat. We met a number of Pinoys (but they aren't Pinoy looking so took awhile before we noticed, but they understood all our side comments hehe).

There were plenty of sweets at the 'Cakes and Cookies' counter near our table. AA was first to notice. You can get whatever you want and some even take home (I did too coz I love the fruit cake!).

There was a 'Drinks Counter' too with all kinds of soda, juice, chocolate and milk.

After the meal, male and female were again separated and so we joined the throng to a vast open-air waiting hall. There we were all seated in numbered rows, which was made comfortable with tons of electric fans, water dispenser and a huge tv.

Finally, our row was called after waiting for over an hour and we were led to another waiting room. This time it is air-conditioned and was fascinating to look at. With all the gold ornamentation, one could tell we are already in the palace!

No camera is allowed at this point.But since we didn't notice the signage and saw the Bruneian in front of us taking pictures, we took no time to get ours and clicked, clicked, clicked.

We were there only a few minutes and were led to the Baitur Rahmah Hall where her Majesty Raja Isteri Anak HjhSaleha and other female members of the family 'meet and greet' visitors. Luckier for the men because they got to meet the Sultan and the male members of the royal family.

Inside the Baitur Rahmah Hall, there was a U - shaped line where the visitors get to shake hands with the Sultan's wife (queen) and the princesses.

With literally thousands of people in line, the process was quick meet and gracious smile at most. So I was very honored when Her Majesty took time to speak to me! I greeted her 'Eid Mubarak' (Blessed Eid) which I learned from the net and memorized to come in handy for this amazing experience. She then thanked me and asked me if I were from Indonesia (not sure if it was because of my intonation or looks).Told her I am from the Philippines and she repeated Philippines and kinda looked at one of the princesses in line who looked like a Pinay. (Note: I was told that one of wives of the Sultan's cousin is a Filipina).

As we left the hall, we were ushered to a distribution kiosk where we traded our coupon given at the entrance for a Hari Raya card from the Sultan and a yellow box as a gift.

It is customary for visitors to the Istana Hari Raya Open Houses (and at all Hari Raya Open Houses) to receive a form of remembrance of their visit. This year sweet memento is packed in an embossed yellow box (one designed for women and another designed for men) consist almost a dozen individually - wrapped cookies which come in two flavors.

We were at the Palace the whole morning 8:30am till 12nn along with over 24,000 people who had attended last September 2 (Borneo Bulletin September 3 issue). It was worth it!

And whenever I see the yellow box and the card, it really felt like quite an honour to attend and be part of this wonderful ' day of celebration'. So to all, Selamat Hari Raya Aidifitri 2011!!

A Golden Treasure in Brunei Doing An Extra (Extra) Mile!

2011-09-17T09:55:00.000-07:00

by: Mhe-anne L. Ojeda

(in front of my CS Jonathan's house in Brunei)

A week before the trip to Brunei Darussalam, even a one star hotel would be a dream luxury given my few dollar-budget, sans any credit card and paying for six (6) persons' travel expenses for three days, three nights on September 1-4, 2011.

(at Brunei Airports' arrival area)

Yes,it is my parents, brother Joel and friend couple (Jojo and AA)'s first international trip together, so I promised all the best for them with an "all expenses paid" adventure! Oh well, I thought the promise would be easy to do (not meant to be broken) when I booked for the Cebu Pacific tickets in May. What I didn't consider was the timing. Little did I realize that this much - anticipated family adventure in Brunei would be after a series of funds - depleting trips: my 6-week US vacation in June/July, a Hongkong Disneyland Birthday treat for my brother in mid - August and Kadayawan Festival adventure in Davao towards the last week of August. You can just imagine how keyed - up I was as the date comes to a close.

(just outside the Brunei Airport-I love country signs you know?haha)

Fast forward, I still vividly recall our arrival at the Brunei International Airport last September 2,2011 at around 1:40am. We saw a guy in uniform waiting patiently outside the airport holding a placard with the words "Times Hotel. Jonathan Beveridge ", exactly what I was told in the email. We came up to the smiling face' guy and he escorted us gladly to where a huge A/C van was parked, drove us for about three (3) minutes towards the city and viola, we found ourselves in the comfort of our hotel room at the Times Hotel. For the rest of our stay in Brunei, we were spoiled with the extra indulgence in three elegantly furnished hotel rooms costing $$$ per room with buffet breakfast for six people; and a lay over at a house which is much nicer than possibly the hotel room I can afford.

(my parents in their hotel room,they didn't request a double haha)

Ooopss..rewind,rewind. Something isn't right, huh! I'm sure you were expecting a different picture, or travel stories of a family sleeping on that inflatable raft on the airport floor trying to skim a few bucks off travel expenses, then traveling by bus first thing in the morning to get to the cheapest accommodation in Brunei. Yes, that could have been our situation if we haven't found a treasure in time. A golden treasure, who is the subject of my entry to this month's Pinoy Travel Blog Carnival being hosted by Marky Ramone Go of Nomadic Photographs on the theme"Unforgettable Human Encounters On The Road" .

Yes, this may not be an encounter while traveling around the Philippines per se, but largely has to do with me and my family being Pinoy travelers and the traits that draw complete strangers to go out of their way so we can have a nice time. Pinoy's honesty, sincerity, friendliness and love for family give me every reason to believe, has played a large role why this uplifting tale I'm about to tell you happened the way it did!

Flashback,Flashback

Barely a week before the Brunei trip and still without an accommodation, I tried searching for couches again on Couchsurfing.Org, a website where I have been a member since May 2009. This website is a treasure in itself. Through it,I have experienced a number of "friends of a friend and hit it off right away" encounters both here and abroad, either by surfing their couch or hosting them when they are in the Philippines.

( with my family at the gold-glittering Kiarong Mosque at night)

Using CouchSearch last August 26, 2011, I stumbled upon Jonathan Beveridge 's profile. He is from New Zealand, an education consultant in Brunei, and pretty new in the site ( only August 2011). Given my situation, Jonathan's couch description was like a 'gold glittering in the sand'. He has two rooms, lives near the airport and interested in meeting people. I wasted no time and sent Jonathan a message, which is hopeful it will turn into something (a free accommodation at best or at least an idea where to find an accommodation I can afford), but keeping my expectation low because Jonathan like any CS hosts, has no obligation to accept my request. Besides he is so new, and may not be open to having that many people stay in his house at one time and so indicated a "max 2 surfers per night".

(a sneak photo with Jonathan at his lovely home taken by ate Vida a Pinoy househelp at Jonathan's house)

My message:

"My parents, brother,a couple friend and I (total 6 persons) are visiting Brunei on September 2-4 (arriving at 1:40 in the morning). I have not considered looking for couch because we are too many. So for weeks now, I have been looking at hotels. But all I can find is either really cheap or very expensive. There seems to be no mid range ones. I'm afraid the cheap hotel (i.e. KH.Soon Guesthouse) may not be clean and safe like the reviews but the next option like Brunei Hotel would be too costly for three days with three rooms.This trip is my treat to my family (their first international trip) so I am paying for everything. Accommodation is becoming a deal breaker haha making me a bit keyed up now.So I thought I would check some surfers for possible ideas or even possible accommodation. Your profile strikes me. And wow,you are pretty new here. Welcome! Also you live near the airport which is what I would prefer because we are arriving at 1:40 in the morning and it is my first in Brunei too.xxx"

Jonathan's reply surprises me. It was quick. truthful. welcoming. considerate.

"Thank you for contacting me. Unfortunately I am not able to help as I have 2 other couch surfers here on these dates so no room left. I am not sure if you will get somewhere for that number. I will ask around though if anyone I know has rooms. I can organise transport for you though from the airport to wherever you end up staying, no problem. I can also ask my local friends where would be a cheap, clean and safe hotel if you would like me to. I am sorry I cannot host myself but as i say I have a New Zealander and 2 Slovenians staying for those 2 nights. I am getting to meet many people..!
Please let me know if you would like me to do any of these things, no problems at all."

I thanked Jonathan for his reply, expressed understanding for his inability to host us on those dates and appreciated his offer to help. Grabbing the offer, I requested him to visit K.H.Soon Resthouse, book if he finds it ok (which means something livable (not urine or tobacco smelling room) and arrange for our transportation from the airport. At this point, I felt so relieved to find someone who is willing to help and very responsive to my queries. Even without actually meeting Jonathan in person, I knew I found a real gem. An angel.

But the subsequent email exchanges surprises me even more.

(the whole group in Jonathan's house with kuya Philip,a Pinoy working as taxi driver for ate Vida)

"Hi Mhe-anne, I checked out the 'cheaper' accommodation places around and I would not want to put my parents into these places. There are not a lot of options for nicer hotels without getting into the expensive ones. I would not suggest paying for the 3rd night as it seems a lot of money to pay just for a place to sit and store your bags. You can leave your bags at my house and wait there also until time to go to the airport.
I have booked into the Times Hotel which is near the airport. I have paid already so don't worry about the cost. The airport has a shuttle that will take you into the main city area for a fee.
I will not be there at the airport when you arrive now but there will be a pick up from the Hotel. He will be holding a sign with my name on it, Jonathan Beveridge. My phone here is ______________ in case you need to get hold of me."

Did I read it right??? Did he really pay for the accommodation? That was unexpected gesture and filled my heart with gratitude - a total stranger advancing hotel costs for me? (how trusting!). So I hurriedly replied saying thank you and assured him I will reimburse him for the amount paid. This I said without checking the type of accommodation, how many rooms and how much I owe him. Upon checking the website of Times Hotel, my happiness suddenly turned into a worry, knowing I can't afford to reimburse Jonathan. So I sent Jonathan another email.This time I was surmising a lot of possibilities, but more inclined for the worst. A true Debbie Downer.

"I appreciate so much all of your efforts and making arrangements for my family and I. But I was looking at the hotel website and it is very expensive and I'm concerned it is out of my budget hehe. Is the reservation already confirmed?"

Surprisingly, here is Jonathan's reply:

(at a steamboat resto in Brunei with Jonathan)

"Hi Mhe-anne. I have booked and paid for the hotel for 2 nights. I am not expecting you to reimburse me so don't worry about the cost, just enjoy... If you don't want to stay there and you have other arrangements, no problem, just let me know, I can cancel. But if it is just that you are worried about the money ...don't. There is not a lot to do in Brunei so you might as well be comfortable and relaxed."

Wow,it was truly a nice generous surprise! I still feel so undeserving of such, but maybe my desire for the best for my family made this amazing encounter with Jonathan happened. For the first time, I became so excited to visit Brunei (not only to check it off my list) because of the good people like Jonathan who has been very kind and a true angel even before we arrive.

Now we are back home with photographs and memories of a wonderful vacation in Brunei. We wouldn't forget Jonathan, my forever friend and the lessons of life he taught me and my family. He is the epitome of genuine kindness, generosity, 'going the extra mile' attitude,doing things without expecting anything in return and not wanting to call attention to himself. I know I could never be able to repay Jonathan, (and he isn't wishing for a payback time anyway).But I can pay him forward by being like him - a treasure to others!

(aboard a water taxi in Kampong Ayer (Water Village) with the Omar Saiffudin Mosque at the background)

For previous months blog carnivals please check Estan's site's PINOY TRAVEL BLOGGERS BLOG CARNIVAL

_________________________
I have added cool emoticons to this message.
To see them go to http://x.exps.me?d6ae17f3fbc5214fa76d0e7fc089105e

143 Journeys: Church Historic Sites Road Trip - Palmyra and Kirtland !

2011-08-25T04:11:00.000-07:00

by: Mhe-anne L. Ojeda

This is my fifth installment in my 143 Journeys which covers our trip to Ohio and Upstate New York as part of our Fourth Anniversary Road Trip last July 26, 2011 - August 1, 2011. Click here for other 143 Journeys.

As a Latter-day Saint traveler, my bucket list includes a visit to the several dozens of Church historic sites and visitors’ centers. So when Mark announced we will be car-traveling for our fourth anniversary as sweethearts, I jumped for joy learning that Kirtland, Ohio and Palmyra, New York were part of the itinerary!

Homes to several Church historic sites, Palmyra and Kirtland hold special interest for me and Mark (and every Latter Day Saints). We believe that in the quiet grove (Sacred Grove) in Palmyra, God the Father and His Son, Jesus Christ, appeared to a 14-year-old boy named Joseph Smith in 1820 and that ushered the beginning of the restoration of the Church in 1830.

Kirtland, on the other hand, served as the organizational headquarters of the infant Church from 1831 until 1838 which is considered to be one of the most remarkable periods in the history of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.

ROAD LEADS TO HISTORIC KIRTLAND (OHIO)

After more than 6 hours of continuous driving from Chicago and passing through toll roads in Illinois, Indiana, and Ohio, we arrived in Cleveland, Ohio.We stayed for the night at Courtyard by Marriot located in a beautiful suburb of Beachwood, Ohio which is only 12.6 miles away from Kirtland.There are no hotels in Kirtland.

Smith Road ~~Detour~~

In the morning, we drove with the help of our car's GPS which displayed the route on monitor and gave auditory directions. When we reached the Smith Road, the GPS announced "Turn Right and your destination is on the right ". I was filled with excitement. I can't believe that I was about to see in a just a mile, a Church historic site which I had been longing to see for almost 24 years since I became an LDS! Wrong! haha. There was no visitors' center or temple on Smith Road! After turning around one more time, we knew our GPS wasn't giving us the right direction. Mark pulled over and called the Kirtland Visitors' Center. A few minutes later, we were on our way to our real destination. We couldn't help laughing when Mark pointed out the many photos I have taken during the ~~detour~~ around the beautiful, quiet farm lands on Smith Road.

Historic Kirtland
7800 Kirtland-Chardon Road
Kirtland, OH 44094. Intersection of Ohio routes 306 and 615, via exit 193 on Interstate 90.

Historic Kirtland consist of the restored and reconstructed 19th-century village settlement, of early members of LDS Church. Mark and I had an interesting visit which started with a 24-minute film depicting the Kirtland development. We also love the guided tour of the Newel K. Whitney Store which was the first school of the prophets, where Jesus Christ appeared twice to Joseph Smith. It was definitely enlightening to know from the sisters missionaries how the Elders who smoke tobacco immediately threw their cigars when prophet Joseph Smith presented to them the Word of Wisdom. The other places we went to were home of Newel and Elizabeth Ann Whitney, Ashery, Sawmill, and John Johnson Inn where we found a miniature replica of the Kirtland Temple and had our picture taken.

Kirtland Historic Temple Center
7809 Joseph Street
Kirtland, OH 44094

Atop the hill, we proceeded to see the real Kirtland Temple, the first temple built by the LDS Church in this dispensation. At present, the Kirtland Temple is owned and operated by the Community of Christ (formerly the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints) which charges a $3 preservation fee. We watched a film introductory, and had a tour inside the temple where no picture taking is allowed since the temple is still being used as a house of worship. We had a picture outside though.

ROADS LEAD TO PALMYRA, NEW YORK

Hill Cumorah Visitors' Center
603 State Route 21
Palmyra, NY 14522-9301.

From Niagara Falls, we got to Hill Cumorah Visitors Center after a two (2) hour-drive. We took a free guided tour and learned there are several Church historical sites in the area and nearby, more than we expected.(i.e.Hill Cumorah Monument, Sacred Grove, E.B. Grandin Press, Joseph Smith Sr. Farm/Joseph Smith Log House/Joseph Smith Frame House, Palmyra Temple, Alvin Smith's Grave, Martin Harris Farm, Peter Whitmer Sr. Farm). But with our limited time, Mark and I agreed to visit the major ones so we could head back to New Jersey and get home by midnight. So we drove up the Hill Cumorah where Joseph Smith was directed to receive golden plates from which the Book of Mormon was translated.

Not far away from the Hill Cumorah, we arrived at the Welcome Center at the Joseph Smith Farm which gave us a free guided tour inside the reconstructed Smith Family Log House and allowed us a self-guided tour of the Sacred Grove. I can't begin to describe how I was feeling at time. It was peaceful,serene, and an ultimate bonding experience with my prince in the same place where young boy Joseph, saw God the Father and His Son, Jesus Christ, in vision. No doubt, this is the highlight of our trip!

To wrap up our visit, we toured the beautiful grounds of the Palmyra New York Temple.

This road trip was not only romantic, but also enriching and meaningful! It's all about enjoying each other in the two towns filled with Church history. With this trip, my prince earned himself a big hug from his little princess!

(This is part of the 5-week US Summer Vacation series, which took place from June 30, 2011 to August 3,2011.For other US Summer 2011 post please click: US Travel

US Summer 2011: Retracing Rizal's Travel In New York and The East Coast!

2011-08-24T00:22:00.000-07:00

by: Mhe-anne L. Ojeda

Date: June 30, 2011, July 12,2011 & July 28-30, 2011
Locations: Chicago,Illinois, Niagara Falls, & New York,USA

Back in the East Coast, I want to take advantage of retracing Dr.Jose Rizal's coast-to-coast visit,although it wasn't a continuing journey. Enough to say that I have stepped afoot on the same places as our national hero while in the United States.

Dr.Rizal's diary in America described that when he left San Francisco on Sunday, the 6th of May, 1888,he boarded a train that was loaded up on a train ferry at Port Costa and sailed to Oakland - Nevada -Utah-Colorado-Nebraska - Chicago - Niagara Falls - Albany with a final destination in New York City .

Dr. Jose Rizal stopped over in Chicago and noted that every tobacco shop has a statue of an Indian. I didn't notice that at all during my day tour in Chicago last July 28, 2011. All I know is that the buildings I have seen are so much different from what our national hero has seen as almost all of the buildings in Chicago were gutted by the fire in 1871 with the exception of the Chicago Water Tower.

Also, the train stopped for a few hours near Niagara Falls where Dr. Rizal went down to the foot of the falls and was amazed by its titanic size and majestic cascades.

Like Dr. Rizal,I too was able to see and feel the power of the Niagara Falls last July 30,2011.I considered it an experience of a lifetime to come face -to- face with the pounding waters during the half hour scenic Maid of the Mist boat tour with my prince and observed the majesty and beauty of both the American and Horseshoe Falls from the Observation Tower.

When Dr. Rizal arrived in New York, he got a room at the Fifth Avenue Hotel from May 13-16, 1888. Fifth Avenue Hotel was one of the best hotels in New York City at the time. Now, the hotel is the location of the International Pencil Factory located at the Madison Park which is incidentally the venue for the annual celebration of the Filipino Independence Day Festival.

New York impressed our national hero with its big city and new buildings which is very much different from the buildings in Europe. The Statue of Liberty was only 2 years old then and surely was seen by Dr. Rizal on May 16, 1888 onboard the luxurious liner City of Rome for his trip to London.

I look forward to retracing our national hero's steps in United Kingdom come January 2012!

143 JOURNEYS: Atlantic City,New Jersey!

2011-08-15T07:53:00.000-07:00

by: Mhe-anne L. Ojeda

Date: July 24, 2011
Location: Atlantic City,New Jersey (USA)

*For my fourth offering in the 143 Journeys, I write about Atlantic City, New Jersey, the venue for our fourth anniversary celebration!
(Please click here 143 Journeys - Hongkong!)

Aside from being just an hour away from Freehold, New Jersey where we were staying, you may be wondering why non-gamblers like us would choose Atlantic City, the so-called Las Vegas, the Sin City of the East Coast as venue for an anniversary date.

Surprisingly, Atlantic City is like a huge theme park, with lots of day and night attractions which are not casino or gambling related. And we didn't have to go too far as everything can be found along the World Famous Atlantic City Boardwalk. Considered to be the heart, soul and backbone of Atlantic City, fun attractions were just a stroll away, the wooden way!

Here's my Eight unforgettable picks which put a new twist on our dating, only proving that Atlantic City is Always Turned On and that is contagious!

1. Seaside Pampering!

Unlike Vegas, Atlantic City is a seaside paradise.So our first stop was the beach where we found lots of people enjoying fun-in-the-sand activities since it was summer. I hurriedly removed my shoes and socks and took the plunge. Oh boy! the water was cold, freezing cold for me haha..But what happened after that has turned me on: my prince asked me to step atop his feet so I didn't have to walk barefoot in the sand with my wet feet. And while he was carrying my weight, my prince was alternately drying off my tootsies with a hanky! Prince pampering!

2. Ocean of Love, This Ones For You

Since I am a music lover it was a huge turn on for me to see the Hollywood Walk of Fame - style plaques at the entryway of Resorts, the first casino hotel in Atlantic City. The entry way is adorned with the handprints and autographs of stars who performed at the Resorts over the years like Luciano Pavarotti,Wayne Newton, Tom Jones, Cher, Diana Ross and many others. The plaque signed by Engelbert Humperdinck which bears the inscription "An Ocean of Love" and Barry Manilow's "This One's For You" are my favorites echoing what I wanna tell my prince.

3. Walk Through The Crowd

I was amazed to see canopied chairs-on-wheels aboard many visitors doing a scenic tour along the Boardwalk of Atlantic City. Those wicker are called Rolling Chairs and have been the city's treasure since the 1800s. But I ditched Rolling Chairs ride (but take pics) despite its promise of relaxation, because walking through a crowd with my prince was much more romantic. With my prince acting as my photographer, it felt like the first time we dated in Cebu! Also I had lots of opportunities drawing my prince closer and tighter and mirroring each other movements!

4. Light Up My Life

Atlantic City's Absecon Lighthouse is New Jersey's tallest lighthouse with 228 steps. It is also one of the oldest lighthouses in the United States having been first lit in 1857. We were too late to go up top since we got there at 5pm closing time, but we were lucky to see the sky aglow with the sunset and able to watch the magic unfold before our eyes!

5. Spicing Up Trivia

Believe it or not,I was surprised to see Ripley's Believe It or Not Museum in Atlantic City! It cost $15.95 plus tax to see the almost 400 eye-opening exhibits inside the eclectic odditorium which is open on a Saturday from 10am to 9pm. We had very limited time though so we decided to check it some other time. Glad we did, coz we learned more about this historic city by just checking several amazing pier arcades!

7.Chic'est Hotel Illumination At Night

Since Atlantic City is "Always Turned On", the best time to be there is at night. I was completely turned on with the artistic revelry as place illuminates at night both inside and out!

8.Tummy Immersion

Simultaneous with the setting of sun were our grouching stomachs and Atlantic City has proven to be a foodie haven. There was even a so - called "Atlantic City Boardwalk Food" of pizza, pretzels and hot dogs. But we decided to try one of the famous-name themed restaurants for a change. We checked out the Rainforest ("A Wild Place To Shop and Eat")but were not so lucky to find a seat. A more sophisticated gourmet room to the rescue - La Piazza Buffet inside Ceazar's Palace! There's nothing that could turn me on more than a mouthwatering meal at a cozy place!

And just like Atlantic City, my prince will always turn me on!

(This is part of the 5-week US Summer Vacation series, which took place from June 30, 2011 to August 3,2011

For other US Summer 2011 post please click:
US Travel Posts

US Summer 2011: Colorado Mountains High!

2011-08-13T07:32:00.000-07:00

by: Mhe-anne L. Ojeda

Summer 2011 in Colorado Slideshow: Mhe-anne’s trip from New Jersey, United States to 2 cities Denver and Aspen was created by TripAdvisor. See another United States slideshow. Create a free slideshow with music from your travel photos.