San Jose in Occidental Mindoro is not known for its tourist spots. For visitors, it’s mainly a transit point to Sablayan a few hours up north. But it does have its own attractions which can be done in two days. Instead of going to the islands, I stuck to the land.

It was my first time to watch Chinese opera and I had the fortunate advantage of also going backstage during a performance at a local festival. The colors, the costumes, makeup and sounds were something memorable.

Guia Hill is Macau’s highest point and it is the location of the Fortaleza da Guia (Guia fortress), chapel and a 19th century lighthouse. These were erected in the 17th century after a failed Netherlands seige. The area is part of the UNESCO World Heritage site under the Historic center of Macau.

I’m on the road again, this time, in the north of Luzon for the second leg of Lakbay Norte 2, the yearly media familiarization tour around the region. Last year was a bit hectic but this time, its more relaxed as we are only covering Cagayan and the Ilocos provinces.

I was in awe with its antiquity. The moon doors and gates, that lead to different spaces in the abode. There are intricate woodworks and carvings, interesting tiles and gourd shaped windows that gives a peek to the sapling at the center of the courtyard. It is an intriguing and beautiful house.

During a hot afternoon while in Bato, Catanduanes documenting an old church, a trip to Maribina Falls provides a welcome respite, the perfect way to cool off and cap a brief stay in this province.

Do it slow. Don’t rush. Don’t mind the sand getting into your feet, thighs and hair. Just let people stare and look. The important thing is, you enjoy it very much.

I admit it. I was wrong about Boracay and first impressions don’t always last. You see, my first time visit almost three years ago left a bad taste in my mouth. Now that I spent three days and three nights in this beach mecca, I take back what I said!

A bit of a cliche really, but Baguio City, with its cool weather, attractions and stuff has still so many things to offer couples who still believe in its magic to strengthen bonds.

37! And almost all those years, I have been traveling ever since I was a child. Now, looking back as well as setting my sights into the future, travel will be for a lifetime.

Langyaw #03, the latest FREE downloadable PDF photo e-magazine is now out focusing on windsurfing and kiteboarding in Boracay.

The next time you go to Boracay? Head to Bulabog Beach and just learn to ride and master the wind through windsurfing and kite boarding in one of the best places to do these stuff here in the country and around the region.

I’ve always looked at Boracay with suspicion, being one huge tourist trap that I don’t always like. However, having written an article in CNN Go last year, I might need to change my mindset as I travel to this (in)famous island in the Visayas. First, a really nice accommodation.

On board wifi is now being offered by some bus companies coming and going from Manila. It let’s one be connected even while in transit. But the question is, do travelers really need to be always online?

A casual mention of it is enough to send eyes looking at you and women hiding a giggle. Or even a condescending stare trying to look at you from head to toe (and stopping at the crotch) and thinking if you’re having inadequacies under the sheets. But for its believers, lansiao is better than that blue pill.

The Ruins of St. Paul is one of Macau’s top tourist drawers and, if not, the most iconic of all the territory’s landmarks. An imposing, well appointed facade rich with details that is a blend of the West and the Orient.

Perhaps one of Macau’s iconic landmarks, the Largo de Senado or Senate Square is often depicted, along with Ruins of St. Paul, in countless photos. The area is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site Historic Centre of Macau.

It was a very fruitful year! 2010 was a major coup in terms of travel for this peripatetic old soul: published in National Geographic, wrote for CNN Go, won the Wandering Juan contest, rounded North Luzon twice, visited enough provinces to make it just six more to complete all 79 and a whole lot more!