Skip to content

March 2011

Prayers and joss sticks at A-ma Temple

    A-ma Temple is one of the popular religious sites located at the southwestern tip of Macau dedicated to the goddess Mazu or Matsu, the patron of fishermen and seafarers and protector of the sea. It is also one of the oldest, built in 1488, predating the Portuguese arrival.

    San Jose, Occidental Mindoro in one day

      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.

      An afternoon of Chinese Opera

        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.

        Scenic view at the Fortaleza da Guia

          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.

          On the road again around Luzon’s tip

            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.

            Mandarin House’s interesting architecture

              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.