Monette of Flip’n Travel gave me an idea. I’ve been looking for ways to dispose of some of my books to make some space for my growing Japanese manga collection in my book case, but haven’t really figured out how. I can always go to Book Mooch, but it would take too long for some of my books. So, I decided to give them away to you, my dear JustWandering readers

Bill Bryson is staying with me, but you’re free to take Frances Mayes home

Before we get to the goodies, you have to understand a couple of things: these books are pre-loved. All but two of them are second hand books, most of them bought in Melbourne. Some of these books have even traveled with me. I’m giving them away because as much as I enjoyed them, I decided to just keep a handful of authors and series in my collection (Peter Moore, Bill Bryson, Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman).
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Vic Lactaoen is one of the most well traveled person I know. He was my sister’s friend, and I met him during my first visit to Jakarta back in 1995. He has just spent the last several years in New York, and I vaguely remember him saying he’ll never go back to the Philippines. By the late 90’s or early 2000, he ended up moving to Manila and to this date have traveled extensively around the country. In 2003, I submitted my first ever magazine article to him — he was currently the Editor in Chief of the now defunct Pilmap Travel and Leisure. The article was published in the magazine’s second issue, and around that time, I was already working for as his editorial assistant (and a marketing assistant and event coordinator at the same time). He already left the magazine a couple of years ago, but he actively contribute articles for local and international magazines.

Vic at the Lanzones festival in Camiguin, with some of the native Tausogs in their cultural costume splendor.

I’ve convinced him to join the dark side get into blogging, and after much procrastinating (all in my part), Travels with Vic is born. His blog currently features some of his previous works. In the future, he’ll be sharing some original pieces. But one thing’s for sure, his blog features destinations in the Philippines you probably overlook or never knew existed!

I asked him to share his favorite destinations and activities in the Philippines, and here’s his list:
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Cathy says she misses my “What’s in my bag?” posts, so here’s another one

I can never travel to Singapore and NOT bring a huge suitcase. I always bring lots of things for my brother and his family, and I always end up shopping more than I should. This trip was no exception.

Barely meeting my 15-kilo check-in baggage limit

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Wordcamp 2009, originally uploaded by nina_theevilone.

It’s Wordcamp season once again, and this time it’s being held at the Asian Institute of Management in Makati.

Unlike last year’s Wordcamp Philippines, there’s not as much attendees this year. Probably because of the registration fee (last year’s was free). Which is good, I think, since only those who are really interested in everything Wordpress would be willing to pay and attend.

Also, unlike last year, I wouldn’t be live blogging this year. I purposely left Kabuki, my laptop, at home because we seriously need some time apart. Besides, I’m sure more than a dozen bloggers would be posting regular updates on their blogs.

* Blogged via flickr

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Manila Domestic Airport, originally uploaded by nina_theevilone.

This is the most passengers I’ve seen in the waiting area of the domestic airport. When Terminal 3 wasn’t open yet, this place is packed with people waiting for their flight. You can just imagine how crazy it can get when flights get delayed or cancelled.

I’m actually quite happy that Seair is still using this small domestic airport. Less people to contend with means a much happier Nina. Just be sure to eat before going to the airport — the sole seller of hot food is charging an arm and a leg for crappy meals.

Seair is giving a great treat at the Philippine Travel Mart at the SMX. Buy 1 Take 1 tickets for Batanes, and discounts as much as 75%! Now you don’t have any reason not to travel.

* Blogged via flickr

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The longest line, originally uploaded by nina_theevilone.

This is the longest line you’d ever encounter when flying with Seair. Small planes mean less people, which means shorter queues and faster baggage claims.

Seair is giving a great treat at the Philippine Travel Mart at the SMX. Buy 1 Take 1 tickets for Batanes, and discounts as much as 75%! Now you don’t have any reason not to travel.

* Blogged via flickr

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paris fr, originally uploaded by michael_hughes.

Michael Hughes shows us a unique way of taking that landmark shot using your own souvenirs. From replicas, CDs, magnets, postcards, mugs, plates and even a lollipop, Michael has you double taking on each of his photos.

Can’t get enough? Visit Michael’s flickr for the complete set of souvenir photos from around the world.

P.s. Thanks Dea for posting about Michael’s lovely photos.

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I can’t believe I never got around to blogging about this, but I’m a big fan of Long Way Round and Long Way Down, the motorcycle journey of Ewan McGregor and his best friend, Charley Boorman. Long Way Round was their trip from London to New York through Central Europe and Asia, while Long Way Down was from John O’Groats in Scotland to Cape Town in South Africa.
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