Thursday, very early in the morning, found me stumbling around in an unfamiliar room, getting ready for the day while trying to shake away the last traces of sleep. It was the first day of the 17th Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta, and it’s one event you wouldn’t want to be late for.

Balloons!

I was lucky that I still managed to get some sleep, as Caltex, our host for this trip, billeted us at the Hotel Vida in Clark, so we can be at the venue before the crack of dawn. It was still dark when we pulled up to the field, but the traffic was starting to build and the parking lot was quickly filling up. Though there are activities almost every hour for the next four days, the highlight was the flight of the hot air balloons.

Watching these huge balloons inflate and take flight are worth sacrificing a couple of hour’s sleep. Hot air balloons are not a common sight in the Philippines, and seeing them just once a year brings wonder and joy, even to those just watching from the ground.

It’s a weekend of everything that flies

Caltex has been supporting the hot air balloon fiesta for years. On the eve of the first day, they launched the online game Captain Bubbly’s Enjoyable Journey, that lets players “fly” a balloon through the Philippines. Players earn points at each stage, which they can donate to a chosen charity: Project Seahorse Foundation (PSF) for environment, Smokey Mountain Team for sports and Hospicio de San Jose (HSJ) for education.

“We have been a partner of PIHABF for the longest time as Caltex’ way of supporting tourism in the country. This year, we wanted to leverage the hot air balloon festival to draw attention to non-profits that significantly help people lead better lives and reach their dreams. This air show is the perfect occasion to let dreams soar and Caltex is proud to be associated with the Philippine hot air balloon fiesta as it draws enormous attention to the country’s tourism industry.”

– Veronica Pangilinan, CPI Caltex Brand Manager

Taking his panda out for a walk

To play the game, just Like the Caltex Philippines page on Facebook, and then click on the Captain Bubbly tab. Full game and donation mechanics can be viewed here.

I like pie. Do you like pie? | This brain fart is brought to you by Justwandering.org | Let’s build the Blogger House with Habitat for Humanity!

It’s my parent’s 50th wedding anniversary next year, and me and the siblings are already planning how to celebrate it. My eldest sister suggested that we rent a house with a pool again, like we did years ago and stay for a night or two with the entire family. Sort of goes without saying that I’ll be the one searching for this house.

Pool!

Luckily enough, Gail invited me for a resort opening a couple of weekends ago. Turns out it was for the re-opening of the Blue Dolphin Resort in Balayan, Batangas.

The resort has both fan and air conditioned rooms, and a nipa hut that can house up to six persons. Rates start at Php 2,000 per night (fan room). For big groups, the resort can be rented to your exclusive use for Php 20,000. Not a bad rate if there are 30 of you using the facilities.

Open space for dining tables, programs and dance contests?

Food isn’t included in the rate, nor do they have a restaurant, but the kitchen is available for your use (stoves, pots and pans, dishes and cutlery included) for a minimal fee.

There are plenty of open areas if you’re going to be doing games or programs, and a sort-of promenade with a view of the beach. Balayan’s beach is black sand, which makes the water look dark and foreboding, but it’s actually pretty clean. If salt water isn’t your thing, you can dip in the pool instead. A bridge divides the pool — a wading pool for the kids, a bigger and deeper pool for the adults.

Sunset at Balayan beach

Are you a singer, not a swimmer? You’re free to use and abuse the resort’s karaoke machine that was strategically placed near a gazebo by the beach.

Balayan is about 3-4 hour’s drive from Manila. Though not one of the popular beach choices for Batangas, it’s great if you’re looking for that small-town vibe, away from the crowds.

Blue Dolphin Resort
Balayan, Batangas
Website: www.bluedolphinresort.net
E-mail: rea.pollard9@gmail.com
Telephone: +6325063525
Mobile: +639178439169

Copyright 2006-2011 Nina Fuentes | Justwandering.org | Let’s build the Blogger House with Habitat for Humanity!

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Last September, I wrote about how I deal with money when traveling. Last January, while in Boracay, I was finally able to try using a Visa debit card.

Works as well as a credit card, but without the absurdly high interest rate

It indeed, worked flawlessly like a credit card. After a sumptuous meal at Lemon Cafe in D’mall, I realized that I didn’t have enough cash with me to pay for my meal, so I paid using the card, knowing that this is one of the establishments in Boracay that accepts credit card payments. I was worried that their machines wouldn’t support debit cards, but turns out I didn’t have anything to fret about. The transaction went through without a hitch — I didn’t have to wash the dishes to pay for what I ate, and didn’t have to worry about credit card bills and interest rates.

After dinner, I made sure to stop by the ATM to make sure I have enough cash to last me until Kalibo and Manila. Again, my Visa debit card is out my wallet and fed into the ATM’s card slot. I was able to get my cash, the only charge was for using another bank’s machine — no cash advance fees to add to my bill.

Works great as an ATM card too!

I was already quite satisfied with the card by then, but the biggest surprise came when I came back to Manila. As you know, the Philippine Blog Awards has partnered with Habitat for Humanity to build the “Bahay Blogger” to benefit the homeless people of Navotas. Unfortunately, the donation page only accepts credit card payments. I was in a pickle because I wanted to help out, but at the same time, I don’t want to use my credit cards anymore. I took a chance and keyed in my Visa debit card number. Much to my delight, the payment went through!

If I’m able to use the card on one website, I’m guessing I can use it for a handful more. Would it work on online airline bookings? Dundundun! Let’s wait and see, shall we?

Visa believes that one of the most important financial tools is not a product but knowledge. That is why Visa has been developing financial literacy programs that teach individuals how to spend, save and budget responsibly. In 2009 Visa committed to reach 20 million people worldwide with financial education by 2013. For more of Visa’s financial literacy materials visit http://www.practicalmoneyskills.com.

Originally published at Justwandering.org

My backpacks have taken a backseat last year. In my major trips last year (Guam, Morocco and Kuala Lumpur), it was my bright red luggage that accompanied me. It’s not that I’ve stopped backpacking; more like traveling to places where walking around in t-shirts, shorts and flip-flops is not the most practical thing to do. I love the mobility I get with my backpacks, but there’s something to be said about the simple joy of throwing your clothes into an empty suitcase.

My new travel buddy

That’s what I did a couple of weeks ago. The wonderful people at Delsey gave me a lovely token: a 65cm 4-wheel expandable trolley from their Fiber Lite line, just in time for my week-long trip to Kalibo. Yeah yeah, I know it’s absurd traveling with a suitcase that can carry up to 20 kilos just for a 7-day trip, but it gave me the freedom to pack stuff I wouldn’t have been able to if it was just me and my backpack. See, I was traveling with my dollie friends and also working the rest of the week. Three big-headed dolls each approximately 12″ tall, a 15-inch laptop, a week’s worth of clothes (mine and the dolls’) — they can’t all fit inside Viktor.

To say that I was happy upon being given a Delsey bag is an understatement. I’ve heard nothing but good things about Delsey, mainly about their super light luggage and their Zip Securi Tech system. The former is easy to understand: lighter luggage means lesser chances of going overweight at the check-in counter. As for the latter, you’ll understand after watching this video:

That happened to me last year in KL. I stupidly locked BOTH my bags with my key cards inside the luggage. I remembered this video and was able to open it. Actually, I was even able to open it without using a pen or anything — the zips didn’t align properly in one corner and I was able to pry it open using that tiny gap. I was grateful that I was able to open it, but in hindsight, it’s worrying because if I can open it that easily, other people can, too. Worse of all, they can even do it without leaving any visible trace. That made me think about investing on a new set of luggage that gives my things better security.

In comes Delsey, almost right on cue! (Thank you universe!) The Fiber Lite is one of their lightest luggage, the 65cm luggage weighing only 3.6 kilos or 7.9 pounds. It also features Delsey’s latest innovation, the Zip Securi Tech system, which consists of two layers of zipper that makes it sturdier and almost impossible to pry open. The double zippers have some resistance when opening or closing, but not so much that it requires a lot of effort. A small sacrifice for the sake of security.

This is my first time to own a four-wheeler and I have to say, it’s going to be tough going back to the two-wheeler. I’ve always wondered what the big fuss is about the four wheels and when I was rolling the bag after it was packed, I finally understood: it really is much more convenient to use. Having four wheels meant it’s easier to maneuver your bag in the crowded airport, but better still, it meant no strain on your shoulder and arm when you’re moving from one end of the terminal to the other. I’m a notorious over-packer; I know that walking around and dragging a 15-kilo carry-on trolley is just as strenuous as with a heavy backpack. With the Fiber Lite, I just adjust the handle to a comfortable height and lightly pull it along as I walk.

My gadgets bag, dollie bag, clothes and waterproof bags, and my Delsey toiletry kit, which also came as a surprise — a Christmas gift from my accountant that arrived the day after I got the bag!

Inside, it’s roomy (as is all empty suitcase). However, what stood out for me is the inside pocket. Unlike my old luggage that features just one big mesh pocket, the Fiber Lite has two compartments, which is perfect if you want to keep some stuff separate from the others, and within easy reach. There is also a separate pocket outside, which also rather common, but what really stood out is that Delsey made sure that the zips have these lock holes so you can also make sure that nobody will be opening this compartment and getting — or worse, putting — stuff inside without your knowledge.

Speaking of locks, the Fiber Lite comes with a TSA combination lock, so you won’t have to worry about forgetting to get one for your luggage. I’m using the Delsey lock for the front pocket zips and put my Pacsafe lock in the main luggage compartment zip. I just have to make sure never to lock my keys inside again.

Delsey Premium French Luggage is available in all The Travel Club Stores, Duty Free, selected SM Malls, Robinsons and Landmark nationwide.

Delsey will be holding a “Break-In Challenge” on February 16-22, 2012 at the SM Mall of Asia. Anyone who will be able to open a Delsey luggage with a pen in under 10 seconds will win Php 50,000 cash. All who join will be eligible for a raffle to win a Delsey luggage worth Php 15,000. Not willing to try your luck? Bring your cash because there’s going to be special discounts on Delsey luggages on those dates!

Copyright 2006-2011 Nina Fuentes | Justwandering.org

Cue the cliché: Christmas is fast approaching, and if you’re still wondering what to give your traveler friends, here are four items you might want to consider.

Leyende Holiday Travel set

It’s organic, eco-friendly and best of all, it’s less than 100ml!

If your friend has been bitten by the travel bug, she’s probably got a pile of tickets bought during one of the seat sales. Some budget airlines charge for check-in luggage, so if they’re traveling on a shoestring budget, they would only be toting carry-ons. There’s a 100ml limitation on liquids you can bring on the plane, so this set is a great gift for the kikay traveler. The Leyende Holiday Travel set comes with either a shampoo and conditioner combo, shampoo and shower gel combo, or shower gel and massage oil combo. All sets come with a lip balm (cleverly labeled “Kiss kiss balm balm”) in a handcrafted box made of recycled materials.

Speaking of handcrafted, Leyende products are all handmade, uses organic and eco-certified ingredients and yes, Philippine made. I’ve used the shampoo, conditioner and the shower gel and I love it. It doesn’t dry out the scalp, hair and skin and smells pretty good too.

The holiday travel set retails at Php 350. Leyende is sold in select stores in Metro Manila and around the Philippines. List of their distributors and resellers available in the Leyende website.

Cuddle Up travel pillow

It’s furry!

I love my Muji Neck Cushion, but Go Travel’s Cuddle Up travel pillow is a close runner up. The clear advantage this pillow has over my cushion is that it’s inflatable — less hassle to tote around when you’re traveling. So how does this differ over other inflatable travel pillows? While the general shape is the same, there are indents in the middle, so it doesn’t puff up like the others. It’s more comfortable on your neck — provided you positioned it properly (or however is best for your body). And it has a fur cover. Feathery soft fur. Cuddle Up retails for Php 990 at The Travel Club and R.O.X.

Ounce Smart Tubes

Squeeze it!

I have a collection of Muji P.E.T. tubes that I use for my toiletries, but my biggest frustration is that if I lose them (I’ve already lost 2), I’d have to ask friends and families from overseas to buy them for me as it’s not available in the local Muji stores. Here’s a good alternative: the Travelon Ounce Smart Tubes. Each tube can contain up to 90ml of liquid (just under the 100ml limit) and thanks to its lid design, there’s very little chance of it spilling or squirting too much. It’s also very squeezable so you can get all of those cream or gel out.

Travelon products are available locally in The Travel Club and R.O.X. stores.

Shoulder Wallet

I’m not that paranoid

For the paranoid traveler, gift them with a hidden travel wallet. A variation of the money-belt, the shoulder wallet is a pouch that can carry your extra money and documents under your clothes. This gives assurance that your cash and passport remain in a secured place. As paranoid as I am, I never really warmed up to money belts. After five years of traveling, I’ve managed to keep my wallets and passport even without using them once. If you think this can bring peace of mind to the first time traveler and get him out the door and into the world, the Go Travel Shoulder Wallet is available in Travel Club and R.O.X.

Thanks to Leyende, Go Travel and Travelon for providing the products!

Originally published at Justwandering.org

As I mentioned in my previous post, I was in Cebu last week. I, along with Melo, Noemi and Eric, were invited by Radisson Blu Cebu for the opening of the Thai Food Festival, which runs until October 9, 2011.

Radisson Blu’s lobby

Of course, it’s par for the course for us to experience first hand why Radisson Blu is ranked the #1 hotel in Cebu in the travel website Tripadvisor.com.

The coffee-holic’s dream

We were given Business Class Superior rooms. The 61-square meter room has a receiving and work area. I love that there’s a divider between the bed and the receiving area so you can close off the area for privacy. The receiving area features a 2-seater couch, an arm chair, a 37-inch LCD TV with cable and a Nespresso machine, which I’m sure would delight any coffee addict (and impress whoever dropping by your room). There’s also the complimentary tea service and mini-bar, which is discreetly stored in the counter cabinet.

Work and leisure area

Sharing the sleeping area is the work space at the opposite end and what I call the “reading area.” The arm chair was surprisingly comfortable, and I quite enjoyed sitting in it while watching Gossip Girl on my laptop.

The desk gives you a view of the docks and the sunset. There is ample space in the table for your laptop and documents, but if you have an unusual amount of paperwork, you can also put them in the counter beside the table.

Got gadgets? No problem.

My favorite feature of the work area is the bank of electrical outlets. Forgot to bring your universal adapter? No problem! Their outlets can accommodate any type of plug. What impressed me most though was the USB dock for charging devises that you would normally need a laptop to charge. How convenient is that?

Comfy, comfy bed

Ever since I heard Raj complaining about Leonard putting disgusting memories in his memory foam mattress, I’ve been wondering what a memory foam mattress and how it differ from other mattresses. I’m no mattress expert, but that bed sure was divine. I slept comfortably and if not for text messages coming in the middle of the night, I slept soundly until morning (which is rare).

Bathroom counter and amenities

The toilet and bath was just the right size for one with ample counter space for even the most high maintenance traveler. I was delighted when I saw there was a shower cubicle instead of a bath tub because I hate showering inside tubs. There are two shower heads — fixed and hand held. The water pressure is really good and the water heats up in no time. Again, there is plenty of space for your bath things.

Thai dishes at the Feria restaurant

Feria, Radisson Blu Cebu’s all-day dining restaurant serves a wide array of cuisine. You’re spoilt for choice, whether you’re hankering for meat, pasta or salads. Speaking of pasta, Feria gives you the option to have freshly made pasta cooked to your preference. Another homemade favorite is their ice cream, which is made right there in the restaurant to the full view of diners. It’s a clear winner among the guests, as we see the chef making a new batch every time we go in to dine.

A small sampling of Feria’s desserts

Guests staying at the Business Class rooms have access to the Executive Lounge at the 20th floor. While the dining area is smaller and offer a limited variety of breakfast items (but don’t worry, there’s bacon!), there is significantly less people dining here. So if you’re looking to have a very relaxed breakfast, this is the place to go.

Radisson Blu Cebu is located right beside SM Cebu and has direct access to the mall. The hotel is about 20 minutes away from Mactan Cebu international airport, and 10 minutes from downtown Cebu. It’s quite a convenient location. No wonder they’re getting high marks.

Copyright 2006-2011 Nina Fuentes | Justwandering.org | Let’s build the Blogger House with Habitat for Humanity!

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Money is one of the biggest concerns when traveling. Aside from saving enough for your trip, the other pressing concern is how much to bring and how to bring it. When I travel, I usually bring cash (peso and US dollar, when overseas), my ATM and my credit cards. I developed this terrible habit of relying on my credit cards for more expensive items, specially when the establishment accept credit card payments. This of course, results to me going beyond my budget.

On the other hand, having a credit card proved useful when I found myself unable to find an open money changer upon arriving late in Kota Kinabalu and specially when I found out that the US dollar bills I bought were practically useless as the money changer wouldn’t accept it for exchange. It also helped a lot when I ran out of cash on the last leg of my Southeast Asian backpacking trip in 2009.

Convenience always comes with a price. In exchange for the service, you pay interests for your charges (of course) and you also pay an annual fee to use the card.

A great alternative to credit cards are debit cards. Debit cards work like ATM cards: it’s tied to a savings or checking account, and you’re only allowed to use the available funds within the account. This means no going over budget, no interest charges, and best of all, no annual fees. You use it like you would a credit card, paying for items without having to withdraw cash. Of course, you can still use it to withdraw money from the cash machine without the additional cash advance fee.

When I traveled solo for the first time, I made sure I was prepared. Along with the dollars and pesos in my wallet, I also had two credit cards (one Visa, one Mastercard) and two debit cards (both Visa Electron cards). What I liked about the debit cards is that I was able to use my local ATM card to withdraw money from any machine that has the Visa logo.

Now that I’m trying to be more responsible and control my spending, I’m making an effort to limit my credit card abuse. While I’m not comfortable completely eliminating my credit cards, I think the debit card would be a great compromise.

Visa believes that one of the most important financial tools is not a product but knowledge. That is why Visa has been developing financial literacy programs that teach individuals how to spend, save and budget responsibly. In 2009 Visa committed to reach 20 million people worldwide with financial education by 2013. For more of Visa’s financial literacy materials visit http://www.practicalmoneyskills.com.

Copyright 2006-2011 Nina Fuentes | Justwandering.org | Let’s build the Blogger House with Habitat for Humanity!

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Friends Rotch, Kaoko, Cla and Chris had been waxing poetic about Muji after trips to Singapore, so naturally, I was intrigued and determined to know for myself what the fuss was all about when I finally found myself back in the tiny island state. It was easy to see the appeal of the store: Japanese food items and beverages, stationery, home and kitchen items, clothes and accessories, all with clean and simple designs. What appealed to me most about Muji’s products is that there is no logo of the brand anywhere.

My companion in travel and at home, the Muji neck cushion

I was initially drawn to their instant pasta sauces, but earlier this year, I started getting interested in Muji’s travel items. When Cla and I were in Hong Kong last January, I picked up the Neck Cushion that I love to bits. It comes in this soft cover that just begs to be petted. Strange looks aside, it was perfect for those long bus rides we had during Lakbay Norte. After the tour, a couple of other trip joiners were already making plans to drop by Muji to buy their own travel pillow.

Muji P.E.T. bottles and tubes

I also picked up a couple of P.E.T. tubes which I filled with shampoo, conditioner, sunblock and facial wash. Thanks to these tubes, I don’t have to worry about exceeding the carry-on limit for liquids. They also made it possible for everything to fit in the quart-size zip top bag.

In my shopping list: the Muji hanging toiletries case

As I prepare for my next trip, I scope out Muji to Go items every time I set foot in their store in Bonifacio High Street or Powerplant Mall. In my list are the garment cases (to keep my clothes organized) and the hanging travel wash bag (because my current toiletry bag is nearing its retirement). Aside from the simple designs of these products, what excites me most about them is that they come in purple!

This September, Muji will be giving away a pair of round trip tickets to Japan on Delta Air Lines. For every minimum, single-receipt purchase worth P10,000 with at least P500 worth of purchase of any featured MUJI to GO travel item, the customer is entitled to one raffle ticket.

Contest fine print:

• Promo runs from September 1 to 30, 2011, with the official raffle draw to be held in MUJI Bonifacio High Street on the first week of October, under the supervision of a representative from Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).
• Promo does not include visa processing, insurance, travel taxes, pocket money, hotel accommodations and the like. Interested participants should be at least 21 years old with a valid passport for at least 6 months prior to departure.

Copyright 2006-2011 Nina Fuentes | Justwandering.org | Let’s build the Blogger House with Habitat for Humanity!

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I don’t drive. There used to be a time when I was a teenager when I was antsy to learn. One of my brothers taught me how to start a car, mainly just so there’s someone to rev the engine (it wasn’t being used much those days). I was content with my daily chore, until I managed to badger the driver into reluctant assent to teach me.

Forever in the passenger seat

I remember barely able to contain my excitement sitting in the driver’s seat as I try to grasp the driver’s instruction. Clutch-shift-accelerate, clutch-shift – accelerate, clutch-shift-accelerate, I mentally chant. Taking a deep breath, I release the clutch, shift to first gear then step on the gas pedal. That’s when my life changed.
See, I have as much grace as a rhinoceros in a china shop. I don’t know why a rhinoceros would be in a china shop, but it’s akin to being in the path of a stampeding herd of wild rhinos in the African Savannah: you know it’s going to be a disaster.

The orange Beetle lurched in a burst of speed and everything that the driver taught me flew out of my head. My mind was blank and nothing that he was screeching was registering in my brain. He wrestled me for the wheel while at the same time trying to reach the brakes. The car hit the curb and I was woken from my reverie, thereby dislodging my right foot from the gas pedal. As soon as I was sure we weren’t moving, I clambered out of the car, never to return. I drove for less than a minute, the car move a less then a foot from its original parking spot, our speed reaching a heart-stopping 5 kilometers per hour.

All thoughts of driving were vanquished that day.

It felt as if I was driving that fast. Really.

I do, however, enjoy road trips. There’s something novel about driving to your destination as oppose to flying or taking the bus or boat. The drive completes the experience, from the bickering on which music to play to the annoyance upon the nth “are we there yet” whined in the brattiest voice. Of course, being unable to drive means I can nap as much as I want in the backseat.

The prominent road trip memories in my childhood were the annual family trip to one of Pansol’s hot springs. Every summer, the family drives south to Laguna to beat the heat by soaking in a hot pool. Thinking back, that doesn’t make much sense. Then again, a swimming pool is a swimming pool (just like Anna Dizon is Anna Dizon).

Every year, my dad would say we’d leave early, yet we always end up leaving an hour or two after the set time. My mother would be fussing about, insisting we’re forgetting to bring something, and I’d be whining because we’re not leaving yet. Everybody would cram inside the jeep, probably breaking a record somewhere of the most number of people, bags and pots to fit inside a vehicle.

The trips to Laguna ceased when my siblings started getting married and moving out of the house. It was only ;ast April, that I was able to go on a road trip with family again. I went with my brother and his family to Bicol, going around Camarines Sur, Albay and Sorosgon. Though we had to rely on public transport in Naga, Legazpi and Donsol, we got to use the same green jeep around Bulusan that we use to ride on those trips to Laguna. From Bulusan, we drove to Irosin and Matnog, exploring new beaches and revisiting sites we haven’t seen in years.

One of the memory that stood out from that trip though, was during the drive to the Legazpi airport. Our flight is at 10am, so we had to leave Bulusan at 5am. I forgo sitting in my usual seat, opting for a more comfortable spot to sleep. I piled my Rubber Ducky bag on top of Viktor (my backpack), hugging it as if it’s a pillow and promptly dozed off. An hour later, I was jolted awake. I looked around, wondering what woke me up until it finally dawned on me: I need to pee. The universe working the way it does, made sure I realize it just as we pass a gas station.

We’ve come a long way Mr. Jeep

It all happened so fast. One second the station was right in front of us, the next it was a speck in the distance. Addled with sleep, it took me a while to regain my wits and tell the driver that I need to use the loo.

“Meron pang isa, malapit lang,” he said.

I’ve traveled long enough to know that people in the province have a different concept of distance from us living in the city. What they consider near is actually several kilometers away. I’ve also experienced more than enough roadside toilets to know that they’re bound to be dark, muddy and stinky.

I distracted myself by listening to music and playing games on my iPod, hoping that we don’t hit a speed bump or run across a funeral procession, else I’d really lose it. Literally. Just when I thought I won’t be able to hold it in anymore, I see a star in the distance.

Relief flooded through me as the Caltex station loomed closer. The driver has barely stopped the jeep when I practically flew out towards the toilets, ignoring the fact that I’m getting my feet wet on the small puddles around the station from the morning drizzle. I braced myself to meet the toilet from hell, but as I opened the door, I was welcomed with a brightly lit room with a dry floor and a roll of toilet paper. Hallelujah!

Where do we go from here?

I walk back to the jeep with a spring in my step, happy to be relieved of my problem (pun not intended). As I settle back in my seat, I got to thinking about how long the jeep has served the family, and how many more years it will be on the road. It got me thinking how long I’ll be on the road. Though I’m not traveling much this year, I’m hoping to travel more as soon as I get my responsibilities in order. In the meantime, I’ll scratch the travel itch with road trips north and south of Manila. I think I’m due for another one.

To celebrate their 75th anniversary, Caltex is giving away 5 Toyota Fortuner and up to 75,000 worth of fuel. Customers get one raffle coupon for a minimum purchase of Php 500 worth of any Caltex fuel. Promo runs from July 15 – October 25, 2011. Raffle draw dates are on September 5, October 5 and November 7. For more details, visit the Caltex website or the Caltex Facebook Page.

Copyright 2006-2011 Nina Fuentes | Justwandering.org | Let’s build the Blogger House with Habitat for Humanity!

One of the things that got me excited about going to Guam was the chance to try a new airline: Continental.

Continental Airlines tail livery

In Manila, Continental Airlines use the old terminal, NAIA 1. Their check in counters are in the right side of the terminal. Business class passengers get access to the MIASCOR lounge, as well as eligible Star Alliance Gold members.
They can also use the Singapore SilverKris and KrisFlyer Lounges and THAI Royal Silk Lounge in NAIA 1.

Continental has 3 9 direct flights to Guam from Manila departing at 10:55am, 10:55pm and 11:25pm. One flight, CO892, flies to Guam via Palau. Coming back, there are 2 direct flights, departing Guam at 8:10am and 7:05pm, while the 6:50pm flight goes via Palau.

Inside Continental’s Boeing 737-800

Guam is one of Continental Airlines’ hub in the Pacific, serving Manila, Hong Kong, Cairns, Honolulu, Japanese cities such as Fukuoka, Hiroshima, Nagoya, Okayama, Niigata, Sapporo and Sendai, Micronesian destinations like Palau, Yap, Saipan, Rota, Truk, Ponhpei, Kosrae, Kwajalen and Majuro. If you don’t mind the transfers, you can fly to the mainland USA on Continental, flying through Guam and Honolulu to either Los Angeles, Houston or New York.

Continental Airlines snack: ham sandwich, salad and Chamorro cookies

Our flight to Guam was the sole morning flight. Since we’re flying into US territory, we had to go through a very thorough secondary check. All of our hand carry luggage were inspected, all pouches and zips opened with the contents thoroughly examined. We pass through another detector and the inside of our shoes are likewise checked. Be sure to take this into account if you’re flying to the US, as it eats up a lot of time.

Dinner: pasta, salad, rye bread and Chips Ahoy

It was a 2-class plane, Business and Economy. Premium seats in economy with more legroom are available for a fee. Snacks were served: sandwiches, salad and Chamorro cookies, which you shouldn’t pass on. There were video screens, but I can’t remember if they put on a movie because I slept through the flight. I do remember getting very interested in a lot of stuff in the Sky Mall shopping magazine.

The flight to Guam takes 3 and a half hours. Since Guam is 2 hours ahead of the Philippines, it’s quite late when we arrived (4:30pm). On the flight back though, we regained the 2 hours, arriving in Manila at 8:40pm (departed Guam at 7:05pm).

Continental’s flight and hotel packages. Click to enlarge.

[UPDATE] The folks at Continental Airlines sent over this flyer for their Palau Package. Only $565 for roundtrip tickets, 3-days and 2-nights accommodation, breakfast and airport transfers.

Click on the image to enlarge.

If you’re thinking of going to Guam, it’s worth checking out Continental Airlines’ package deals, wherein for as low as $310 (for triple sharing; $320 for twin sharing and $400 for single), you already get round trip tickets and 3-days and 2-nights stay in their partner hotels with daily breakfast and airport transfers. These deals are not available on the Continental website, so best to call the Continental Airlines Philippines office at (02) 818-8701 to 05 to inquire, reserve and book.

Continental Airlines sponsored our flights to and from Guam.

Copyright 2006-2011 Nina Fuentes | Justwandering.org | Let’s build the Blogger House with Habitat for Humanity!

During our 5-day stay in Guam, we were billeted at the Fiesta Resort Guam. Located right at the heart of Tumon, the hotel has easy access to the fine white sand beach and turquoise waters of Tumon Bay. The drive from the airport only took 10 minutes and upon entering the lobby, our eyes were immediately drawn to the manicured lawn that stretched to the line of coconut trees upon the shore.

Fiesta Resort Guam as seen from the poolside

I was given an Oceanfront room on the fourth floor. It took all of my self-control not to rush to the balcony to take a photo of the gorgeous view outside and take photos of the room instead before I settle in.

Inside Room 424

The room had the usual features: bedside reading lamps, closet, personal safe, alarm clock, cable TV, fridge, mini bar and desk. There were two chairs in the balcony with a small table in middle upon which an ashtray sits. The bathroom is just the right size for 2 people rooming together.

Room 424′s bathroom

Fiesta Resort offers a variety of activities to keep their guests occupied. There are two pools, one for swimming, the other for playing pool volleyball or basketball. Lounge chairs are available for those who want to sunbathe and there’s an outdoor snack bar if you get hungry or looking for refreshment. There’s a gym for those who want to keep fit even while on vacation or join the morning gentle stretch, which combines yoga and pilates. There are also activities to keep the kids occupied, as well as a babysitting service.

Fiesta Resort’s pool and garden

The hotel has one restaurant, the World Cafe, where the breakfast buffet is served. In the evenings though, you might want to try the beachside barbecue which also include a cultural show featuring Polynesian and Micronesian dances. Craving for ice cream? You don’t need to go far as there’s a Häagen-Dazs Café right outside the lobby. There’s also a small convenience store if you’re hankering for some midnight munchies.

Breakfast at the World Cafe

What sets Fiesta from the other hotels in Tumon though is that they can let you check in early. This is perfect for those flying in to Guam on the red-eye flights. If you’re booked at Fiesta, there’s no need for you to sleep at the airport or wander around the island like a zombie, killing time before you get to check-in and rest. Another unique feature of the hotel are its Ladies rooms, which are located in a restricted access wing on the 8th floor. Are you a solo female traveling in Guam? This is something you might want to consider when you visit. The rooms all have ocean views, fancier toiletries and even comes with a small bowl of chocolates.

Ladies room toiletries

Fiesta Resort Guam room rates starts at $120 for mountain view rooms. Package rates for rooms and activities (spa, water sports, barbecue dinner, etc.) are also available. To make a reservation, visit the Fiesta Resort Guam website.

Fiesta Resort Guam sponsored our stay in Guam.

Copyright 2006-2011 Nina Fuentes | Justwandering.org | Let’s build the Blogger House with Habitat for Humanity!

Learn how to build a nipa hut

A Chamoru building a nipa house

Want to know about the Chamoru culture? There’s no better way to learn about Guam’s indigenous people than at the Lina’La’ Chamorro Cultural Park. Here you can visit a recreated local village and experience how it was like to live in the island before it was colonized.

Cha cha cha with a Chamorro

Guamanians loves to cha cha

On our first night in Guam, we were taken to the Chamorro Village, where the Wednesday night market was in full swing. Aside from food stalls and stalls selling all kinds of knick-knacks, there was dancing. The locals were tearing up the dance floor, not with the latest dance hits, but local sounds.

Beach bum at Tumon Bay

Victoria at the beach

It can get very hot and humid and Guam. The best way to cool down is to take a dip in the cool and clear waters of Tumon Bay. Frolic in the fine white sand beach or lay down to sunbathe as you wait for the sun to set.

Wish for forever at Two Lover’s Point

Because love does not discriminate

There’s a legend that there were two star-crossed lovers (as always) who cannot be together who jumped to their deaths so they can be together for all eternity. They jumped from the cliff now known as Two Lover’s Point, which juts out 400 feet from the sea. Couples who come here to follow their fate, but not by jumping — by putting locks or tags with their names or pictures all around the place. Gave up on love? You can still enjoy the sweeping views of the bay from the viewing deck.

Be amazed at the Dream

Pictures are allowed before and after the show, but not during.

It’s a magic show, but it still leaves you in awe (and trying to figure out how the heck the magician did it). In between tricks, contortionists, dancers and aerial silk performers entertain you with their amazing skills. It was kinda weird watching burly men who are not wearing leopard print briefs, fishnets and stilletos dancing the Locomotion though.

Go underwater

Lia at the Underwater World

Traveling with kids? Keep them entertained while learning about the Earth’s diverse marine life at the Underwater World Guam. If you’re looking for a unique dining experience, you can book for a romantic dinner for two inside the aquarium tunnel.

Shop till you drop

Inside the DFS Galleria

Guam is duty-free. This means brand name items are often cheaper in the island than in the mainland USA or even other countries. Head to DFS Galleria if Louis Vuitton, Hermes, Gucci and Prada are in your shopping list. For the budget conscious, there’s Guam Premier Outlet where you can go crazy shopping at Nine West, Nike and Ross. Killing time before your flight or got in too early and can’t check in to your hotel yet? Drop by the 24-hour K-mart, which is the biggest in the world.

Eat Chinese Metro food

Super yummy gyoza

If you’ve had your fill of kelaguen and craving for new flavors, drop by Gyoza Yatai at Pacific Place. You’ll probably be weirded out at seeing “Chinese Metro” above the Japanese name — it really is a Chinese restaurant. More than the amazing food (the special gyoza is a must try), Frank Tovez, the manager a character. If he’s not too busy running the restaurant, he’ll regal you with stories of Guam as he serves the dishes to your table.

Copyright 2006-2011 Nina Fuentes | Justwandering.org | Let’s build the Blogger House with Habitat for Humanity!

What is Filipino cuisine? The people behind the movement Sooo Pinoy took us to around Metro Manila to taste the best of Pinoy food.

Adarna’s Bicol Express

Sooo Pinoy feeds your national pride through the appreciation of Filipino cuisine. Thru Sooo Pinoy, you will learn more about the history of Pinoy food and discover where to find the best Filipino restaurants for these dishes. Ang sarap maging Pinoy!

Sooo Pinoy’s purpose is to feed every Pinoy’s love for Filipino food by providing information about the most popular Pinoy dishes and helping diners identify the top Filipino restaurants in the country.

Source: Sooo Pinoy Facebook page

Adarna Food and Culture
119 Kalayaan Avenue, Quezon City
View on Google Maps

Don’t leave Adarna without trying the kesong puti and langka fry

The best place to start any Pinoy food tripping. Showcasing Filipino heirloom recipes, Adarna prepares Filipino food as it was traditionally made, using ingredients that you probably won’t think to use.

Must try: Seafood special, Bicol Express (caution: spicy!), Adobong Batangas ala Adarna and Keson puti and langka fry for dessert

FNC-Nathaniel’s Bakeshop
ITC Commercial Bldg, Timog Avenue, Quezon City
View on Google Maps

Nathaniel’s Buko Pandan Salad

Known for its Buko pandan salad that’s served like ice cream, Nathaniel’s of Pampanga also makes the best Puto pao I’ve ever tasted (none of that bitter aftertaste that other puto paos has).

Must try: Buko pandan salad, Puto pao

Kabigting’s Halo-halo
592 N.S. Amoranto (near Banawe), Quezon City
View on Google Maps

Kabigting’s sinful halo-halo

While other shops boasts of a long list of ingredients in their halo-halo, Kabigting’s version keeps it simple: creamed corn, halayang white beans and carabao milk pastillas topped with evaporated milk and finely shaved ice. The result is a thick mixture reminiscent of a cold guinataan. It tastes incredibly rich and very very yummy.

Must try: Halo-halo and palabok

Nihaya Halal Fastfood
Norzagaray Street, Quiapo, Manila
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Ayam Papag with niyog

Looking to try something different? Head to Quiapo’s Muslim district and have a meal at Nihaya Halal Fast Food. With prices ranging from Php 25 to Php 70, this is a great place to get acquainted with Maranao cuisine.

Must try: Ayam papag with niyog (chicken liver stew with grated coconut), beef rendang (spicy beef stew), Yellow fin kinilaw (kinilaw with coconut milk)

Master Hopia
206 Villalobos St, Quiapo, Manila
View on Google Maps

What’s your hopia?

Looking for a snack you can munch on while walking through Quiapo? Stop by Master Hopia and try one (or 6) of their several varieties of hopia.

Must try: Monggo, macapuno, pineapple

Excelente Ham
155-157 Palanca St, Quiapo, Manila
View on Google Maps

Bacon!

One bite of Excelente’s bone-in ham and I am overwhelmed with visions of holly, poinsettias and mistletoe. This is the ham we all grew up gobbling on Christmas morning after opening all our presents. Excelente has always been a favorite among Filipinos, with lines spilling out to the street during the holidays. Their hams are available year-round so you can experience Christmas anytime of the year.

Must try: Bone-in ham, bacon

Cafe Adriatico
1790 M. Adriatico St., Remedios Circle, Malate, Manila
View on Google Maps

You’re guaranteed to be knocked out by Cafe Adriatico’s crispy pata

Traditional Filipino food at the fine dining restaurant Cafe Adriatico in Malate is a lovely way to cap the day. We were welcomed with a hearty bowl of Sinigang na Bangus belly sa bayabas. It was my first time to try sinigang cooked this way and I must say, I’ve been missing a lot in my life. Cafe Adriatico is open 22 hours a day (closing only between 5am to 7am), so you know where to go if you’re having some late night cravings for crispy pata.

Must try: Sinigang na Bangus Belly sa Bayabas, Lola Ising’s Adobo, Knockout Knuckle

Sooo Pinoy is an initiative of Unilever Foodsolutions, in cooperation with the Department of Tourism and the Philippine Daily Inquirer.

Copyright 2006-2011 Nina Fuentes | Justwandering.org | Let’s build the Blogger House with Habitat for Humanity!

The primary reason why I, along with fellow travel blogger Ivan of Ivan About Town, food nerd JJ of Pinoy Eats World and writer Angel of Travel Life, flew to Guam for 5 days last May was for the Maila Ta Fan Boka Festival. Meaning “come and let’s eat,” that’s exactly what we did in Guam.

Victoria at the opening of the Maila Ta Fan Boka festival

Day 0

We arrived on May 25, a Wednesday. After checking in at our hotel, we headed to the Chamorro Village to meet the Guam Visitors Bureau team, as well as the other participants for dinner. There’s a night market there every Wednesday and it’s packed with tourists and locals alike. This is the best place for you to sample typical Guam meals. However, due to the number of Filipinos living in the tiny island, the menu usually have a Pinoy dish or two.

Chamorro fiesta fare: red rice, grilled ribs, grilled chicken, tortillas and kelaguen

Our dinner was a preview of things to come: a long table laden with food you would usually see in any party around Guam: red rice, tortillas, grilled ribs, grilled chicken, ham, noodles (very similar to our pancit), and of course, kelaguen.

Day 1

The food festival was officially opened on May 26 at the Toh-Lee restaurant in Hotel Nikko. Located at the 16th floor, we had a sweeping view of Tumon Bay as Pilar Laguaña, GVB’s Marketing Manager and Senator Tina Muña-Barnes welcomed us to the island they call home.

Cooling off with sweet ripe mangoes

The day’s itinerary had us going around the island visiting farms. The first stop was Johnny Castro’s Mango Farm, where we were treated to frozen fresh ripe mangoes. It was the perfect snack as it was a very hot day. We walked around the farm ogling mango trees and wondering why they don’t seem to grow as tall as the mango trees in the Philippines. Turns out that they graft the saplings to make a hybrid mango variant that has the same sweet taste, but has a tree at a more manageable height.

Fresh fruit buffet at the Hamamoto Gardens

We had lunch at the Hamamoto Tropical Fruit World in Yona. After filling ourselves with kelaguen, we boarded the tractor that took us around Mr. Hamamoto’s expansive garden, where he planted different kinds of fruits and berries. When we got back to the pavilion, our eyes bulged at the lovely fruit buffet spread. There were two tables: one for freshly squeezed lemon-lime juice (you have to do the actual squeezing), the other laden with fruits freshly picked from the garden. There were bilimbi (kamias), mountain apple (macopa), honeydew, melon and star fruit. But what really captivated me were the slivers of coconut meat dipped in soy sauce. Vegetarian sashimi FTW!

Coconut and Kikkoman: not as bad as you think

After that, we were whisked off to the Hydrophonic Lettuce Farm. Here, red and green butter lettuce, red oak leaf, Greek oak leaf and frisee lettuce are organically grown without pesticides nor soil. Great care goes into protecting the greens from insects and the harsh UV rays, as well as ensuring that the farm stay environmentally friendly.

Baby lettuce growing at the Hydroponic Farm

The first day was capped with a hearty dinner at the Muña family compound. Before we dug into the huge bowls of kelaguen though, we were given a quick lesson on cooking Chamorro food. The dish assigned to us, the Lechen Biringhenas (Barbecued eggplant with coconut milk), was very easy to prepare: grill and peel eggplants, arrange in platter and douse with a mixture of coconut milk, salt, pepper and chili.

Question: Which ones are the bloggers?
Answer: All of them!

That evening, I was reminded of our family gatherings when we’re celebrating a birthday or New Year’s: every one bonding over food. It was a very laid back evening capped with cha-cha and Chamorro dance presentations.

Day 2

We were up bright and early the next day and headed to the yet to open Lina’La’ Chamorro Cultural Park. The park is both an ecotourism destination and a living museum. Once finished, the park will have outdoor activities available for guests (nature trails, beach activities, and the ever present zip line). The highlight of the park though, is the Chamorro village, where guests can experience what it’s like to live in Guam before the Spaniards came. Houses made with nipa dot the small clearing and we see Chamorro natives puttering about in their traditional garb preparing meals and building houses.

Nipa houses at the Lina’La’ Cultural Park

Standing there in the middle of the small village, I was struck by the many similarities between Guam and the Philippines. It goes beyond the number of Filipinos who have migrated there. We are both islands in the Pacific, experiencing the same tropical climate (and even the typhoons too), we have experienced life under the Spanish rule and lived with the Americans (except they remained American).

We had lunch at the beach (even more grilled ribs, chicken and kelaguen), then broke off into groups to tour the island. More on this in my next post!

Day 3

The third and last day of the Maila Ta Fan Boka festival culminates with a culinary competition featuring professional chefs putting forth their best interpretation of Chamorro cuisine and amateur cooks dishing up their best homegrown recipes.

Dainty platters of Chamorro favorites at the culinary competition

Everything that each contestant came up with is a delight for the tastebuds, but there was one that I still salivate over up to this day: chicken kelaguen burrito. It was too spicy for my palate, but that is one fine burrito. And kelaguen.

How do you like your mango?

From the Guam Premier Outlet, where the culinary competition was held, we headed south to the town of Agat for the Mango Festival. The town is known for its bountiful mango trees and the festival is their way of showcasing their best product. Mangoes of different sizes and shapes are on display and visitors are welcome to try the different varieties. While the thought of seeing mangoes might not be too exciting for someone who lives with a mango tree in their backyard, it was really interesting to learn how people from other countries enjoy their mangoes. I was happy to learn that eating mango with bagoong (fermented shrimp paste) isn’t such a weird combination — there are others who like salty and even spicy going with their sweet or sour mangoes.

Day 4

The biggest attraction at the Sta. Rita fiesta

It was no longer part of the festival itinerary, but the GVB thought it’d be a great local experience (and more reason to ply us with more Chamorro food). We drove south again on Sunday morning to the town of Sta. Rita. They were celebrating their fiesta and as someone who has lived in the city all her life, it’s interesting to see how the community comes together. There were cultural dances presented by the local kids, cultural activities that we were invited to partake in and of course, more Chamorro fiesta food.

Carving the hotnon babui

Like the fiestas in the Philippines, the Chamorros open their houses to friends, families and fiesta-goers to celebrate and bond. The mayor of Sta. Rita opened the doors to his house for us, and we had our last taste of grilled meat and our kelaguen of choice.

Copyright 2006-2011 Nina Fuentes | Justwandering.org | Let’s build the Blogger House with Habitat for Humanity!

This is a paid advertorial.

To say that the internet plays a big part in my life is an understatement: the internet is my life. My full-time work is online, my projects on the side are all online, more than half of my siblings are overseas so we keep in touch online, I share my travels through this blog, which is of course, online.

Smart LTE Speedtest results

I’ve experienced the slowest of slow connections: our first modem was a 1400 baud dial-up modem. I’ve experienced fast: 24 Mbps in Hong Kong. Last weekend, I experienced holy-frack-that’s-fast!: download speeds of up to 50 Mbps using Smart LTE.

So what does fast internet have to do with travel? A lot, actually. If you’re like me who is dependent on the internet, you’d have spent a fraction of your trip (and a small fortune) sitting in front of a computer, updating your blog, your Facebook and your family about your whereabouts; reading and replying to e-mail sent by friends or clients (and prospective clients); catching up on what’s happening in the world you left behind. Minutes that stretched into hours are spent staring at the monitor waiting for that ridiculously huge attachment to download so you can review and reply while you wait for photos to upload at a snail’s pace in the next tab.

Having a fast internet connection means more time to enjoy paradise.

Mica and Winston hamming it up for the camera

It means more time to spend with friends.

Gay, Fritz, Kyle and Bim completely relaxed on their side of the paraw

It means more time to relax

Didn’t know you can lie down in the paraw. Must do this more often in Boracay.

…while you ride a paraw as the sun sets.

While you can argue that traveling means disconnecting from the online world, it’s unfortunately, not an option for me. As much as I love the time I get to spend away from the computer, I still get the nagging feeling at the back of my head that I have to check my e-mail; to ensure that everything is in order. My work is online: the internet is open 24/7. There are no weekends or holidays. That’s why even if I don’t want to go online, I have to because I have to keep my clients happy. Though my work is actually mobile — I can work anywhere in the world as long as I have internet connection — I am hesitant to on this route because I don’t just require an internet connection. I need fast and reliable internet connection. Unfortunately, that’s a bit of a problem in the Philippines. So I opt to stay at home, tethered to my DSL, dreaming of the day I can pack up and travel long term around the country, without having to worry about rushing back to Manila to work.

Smart’s 4G LTE dongle at work

Smart LTE is 4G, which requires a completely different infrastructure as the current 3G standard. While this means it would take some time before we start enjoying super fast internet across the Philippines, they’re aiming to roll out the service to major urban centers at the end of 2011 or early 2012. Until then, I’ll start preparing for that day when I can finally break free of my DSL dependence and can rely on stable mobile internet as I perfect the art of slow travel*.

* staying in one city long enough to unpack, create a routine, become a regular at a cafe, etc.

Copyright 2006-2011 Nina Fuentes | Justwandering.org | Let’s build the Blogger House with Habitat for Humanity!