Travel Logs : A journey in pictures.

Erasmus Mundus Mobility for Asia (EMMA)

2010-12-10T16:45:00.000-08:00

Dear friends,

The Erasmus Mundus Mobility for Asia which offers a unique opportunity for university staff, students and professionals at independent levels to pursue higher education in more than 5 European countries has now opened its door for aspiring filipinos who will change the future of our country.

Unfortunately hiring will end by January 17, 2011 - so go apply now!

To know more about the European Commission´s EMMA scholarship programs, please visit the website http://www.emmasia.eu/page2869.html

If you have further questions, please post them below (just make sure you have a google account).

Good luck to all!!

Ken

Philippines and Diet Pills

2010-12-09T03:33:00.000-08:00

Do you wonder why diet regimens that involve the use of supplements like the one on the photo are very popular not only in the Philippines but often seen coexisting in developing countries with undernutrition and obesity? Widely popular and is affecting virtually all ages and socioeconomic groups.

Obesity has reached epidemic proportions globally, with more than 1 billion adults overweight - at least 300 million of them are considered clinically obese (WHO, 2010), is a major contributor to global burden. The increased consumption of more energy-dense, nutrient-poor foods with high levels of sugar and saturated fats, combined with reduced physical activity have led to rising obesity rates three-fold or more since 1980. Taking note that this is not only restricted to industrialized societies but is often faster in developing countries than in the developed world.

So what in the world is wrong?

One would probably have stumbled into this book entitled "Why French women don´t get fat" and wonder if it is true or not. The premise of the book is to simply explain the lifestyle French people have (not only limited to women but men as well). The way they prepare food, the way they take time to enjoy every meal, the way they cherish company with friends and the way they incorporate physical activity as a way of life on a day to day basis.

Examples.

In France, one would rarely encounter diet pills and supplements on pharmacy shelves. This is because the incidence of obesity is lower compared to popular countries selling these diet pills such as USA, Mexico and the UK which puts them on the top 3 obesity statistics (Nation Master, 2010).

Based on personal experience, Asian countries like Korea, Japan and Vietnam, one would rarely encounter oversized women, placing them on the lowest incidence rate together with the Scandinavian countries and Switzerland.

Diet pills? They will definitely not make business in these countries. But it is the buzzword in the Philippines putting diet pills companies on the merry-money-making wheel.

Lifestyle. Lifestyle. Lifestyle.

Lifestyle change is the key to achieving one´s desirable body weight. Many times I have told my friends that self-reflection is a major requirement in this change process. Once the person have identified the key factors for his or her obesity, then change could start.

Simply put, if one has been on sedentary lifestyle, has been consuming more than the required calories compared to one´s energy expenditure, then obesity ensues. Common sense would tell you that lifestyle change can reverse this condition. An increase in physical activity (exercise defined as a physical activity which enables your heart to beat at 100 to 120 per minute maintained for at least 15 minutes) and appropriate selection of food and food cooking styles could initiate this change. But most of all, it should become a lifestyle meaning that one should take this a a permanent one...

Again, this is based on my own experience. From being a 210-pounder small-built person in 2008 to 170-pounder person as of today.

For more inquiries, you email me at ken.burjalarab@gmail.com

Europe´s Underrated Cities

2010-09-23T10:00:00.001-07:00

This book will be available at www.blurb.com around December 2010.

If you have inquiries please email me at ken.burjalarab@gmail.com

Thanks.

My Viennese Chocolate Cake Adventure

2010-08-10T11:25:00.000-07:00

The moment Twin City Liner´s catamaran from Bratislava docked at Vienna center´s Danube port, I couldn´t help but excitedly walk towards the direction of my hotel thinking of the world´s most famous chocolate cake called Sacher Torte.

Sacher Cake (SAH-kuhr-tohrt) – Sacher Torte is a famous Viennese cake, probably the most famous chocolate cake of all-time. It consists of chocolate sponge cake called genoise cut into two layers, between which apricot jam are thickly spread between the layers and on the top and sides of the cake. The whole cake is then iced with a velvet-like chocolate and served with a side dish of whipped cream.

The story of the world-famous Original Sacher-Torte began in 1832, when the all-mighty "coachman of Europe", Wenzel Clemens Prince Metternich, ordered the creation of a particularly palatable dessert for spoiled high-ranking guests, "take care that you do NOT make me look a fool tonight", he warned. That very day, however, the chef was ill in bed! The order was reassigned to a 16-year-old apprentice in his second year, the quick-witted chap Franz Sacher...

One thing was certain; the specialty which was finally presented to the masters and mistresses was a resounding success: a soft and fluffy chocolate cake with the tasty apricot jam under the icing. Franz certainly never forgot the great success of his ingenious idea within this exclusive circle. He spent his apprenticeship working for the Count of Esterhazy, first in Bratislava and then in Budapest. When, as a fully qualified cook, he started to work on his own account, he offered his successful composition once again, this time on a large scale. He was successful and soon the "cake by this man named Sacher" was in great demand, and the victorious career of the probably most famous of all cakes began.

1876 - In 1876, Franz's son, Eduard Sacher, opened a grand hotel called the Hotel Sacher, but it was Eduard's dynamic, cigar-smoking wife, Anna, who turned it into one of Europe's greatest hostelries where the aristocracy and diplomats would meet. After Eduard's death his widow, Anna Sacher, became manager. Under her rule, the hotel became one of the finest hotels in the world, where the aristocracy and diplomats would meet, and by the time of her death in 1930 it was a national institution.

1965 - For some unknown reason, Franz Sacher Jr., a son of Eduard and his wife Anna, later sold his original recipe to Demel's, a fancy coffee café on the Kohlmarkt, allowing them to produce a rival torte. Both the Hotel Sacher and the Demel Patisserie claimed to produce the "original" Sachertorte. These two world-famous institutions engaged in a lawsuit which lasted for years. The judgement in 1965 went in favor of Sacher, giving them the right to the “Original Sacher Torte” while Dehmel had to be satisfied with the “Original Eduard Sacher Torte”. The main difference between the two recipes is that in Sacher's case, the layer of jam is between two layers of the chocolate sponge, while in Demel's version the jam is on top of the sponge but under the chocolate covering.

Following is from the book The Oxford Companion To Food, by Alan Davidson. In the book it refers to another book called Festive Baking in Austria, German and Switzerland by Sarah Kelly:

"When Demel's, Vienna's most famous pastry shop, and the Sacher Hotel, owned by a branch of the same Sacher family, contested who had the right to call their product the 'genuine' Sachertorte. Demel's case was based on the fact that the shop had bought the right to produce the 'genuine' Sachertorte, stamped with an official seal of bittersweet chocolate, from Edouard Sacher, the grandson of the creator. . . . The Hotel Sacher based their case on the family connection with the cake's creator. The most discernible difference between the versions from the two establishments was in the placing of the apricot jam . . . . Seven years later, the courts decided in favour of the Hotel Sacher. Demel's, however . . . . announced that they would simple market their Torte as the 'Ur-Sachertorte', the very first version."

The Hotel Sacher´s Sacher Torte

Demel´s Sacher Torte

Today, every coffee house in Vienna has its own version of the famous Sachertorte.

But personally, I still prefer the dense, moist dark chocolate cake commonly found in the Philippines, my home country.

Traveling Light – An option for the faint of heart.

2010-07-24T03:00:00.000-07:00

By Ken Subillaga

Some people say that traveling light is only for those who don’t care about fashion, style and hygiene. More so, some say that those who do are also travelers on budget. Well, isn’t it nice to let others feel like you don’t have much money and therefore, you can stay away from any possibility of being robbed or held-up? But that’s beside the point. I have had the opportunity to travel around Asia and Europe alone (and well, sometimes with a companion) and on budget but I have travelled to destinations more than what I had planned.

Traveling light provides a wide array of opportunities, comfort, style and a lot more benefits one could ever imagine. I will walk you through some of the reasons why I prefer to travel the world, going pretty much anywhere, for an indefinite length of time, with no more than a single hand-carried-sized bag.
If you are squeamish about anything challenging with traveling on limited clothing and style, this may be an option you will appreciate later.

By the way, I will be using the words like ‘cabinet’ which I figuratively use for some huge luggage; ‘mailman’s bag’ which is a wide bag with a long strap. It is made to carry across the body. It has a flap that covers the top opening and can be used for many situations, but often is used in as a bag for carrying school books; and LCC which stands for Low-Cost Carriers that offers affordable fares but no-frills airlines like Ryanair, Easyjet, Wizzair, Vueling, German Wings, Bluejet, Tiger Airways, Cebu Pacific, Air Philippines, Air Asia, etc.

Why travel light?

Hassle-free: Overpacking tops the list of biggest travel mistakes. Aside from the fact that you would need more effort in hauling those ‘cabinets’ of yours everywhere you go, you spend your day in exhaustion and surely, you won’t enjoy your travel at all.

The good thing: With a greatly reduced need to check in baggage, you are less likely to lose your belongings to theft, damage, misrouting or simply misplace them somewhere at the airport. Moreover, you don’t need to go through being questioned by the security for possible importing of contraband goods.

Savings: Perhaps one of the most important concerns when traveling is budget (I’m sure you would all agree). Yes, no matter how much money you carry if you don’t plan ahead, more likely, you’d spend some on assistance provided by other people or pay more on a transportation to accommodate all your belongings. This is probably one reason why one would rather stay in a single bedroom and in a hotel.

The good thing: If you only have one sufficient bag, you don’t have to pay porters or storage fee. The only reason why Left-luggage Facility at most of the main airports is earning well is because of those who travel with luggage like they’re moving from one house to the other. You will also be able to take public transportation like busses, trams, trains or even walk to the city center rather than taking taxis and limos… All which bring you to a more intimate and rewarding contact with the locals you meet on your trip.

Flexibility: Arriving at an airport with your ‘cabinets’ may be one of the most common scenarios you will find. With too much in hand, the thought of managing your luggage might just totally ruin your planned vacation or you might be spending too much time and miss your connections.

The good thing: Less stuff means greater mobility, which give you more travel options. You may not arrive at the airport as early as other would, because all you need to do is have your bag checked, and go straight to check in or in the case of LCC, you just have to go straight to your specified gate. You can board trains, trams, and coaches with alacrity. You can also switch to an earlier flight if your ticket permits and finally, you can leave the airport as soon as you disembark as you don’t necessarily have to wait at the carousel area for hours.

Serenity: The bottom line is, traveling light is the more hassle-free way to go. You have more time because packing takes little. You waste less energy hauling your stuff. You know what you have and how many, so you don’t easily lose your belongings or be a bait for some lurking unscrupulous individuals. Foreign travel in particular can be very stressful because it is unfamiliar and unpredictable. Aside from researching information about your destination, you need to consider a lot of factors like safety, security, accommodation and weather.

But then again, the light traveler always copes by operating from a solid, clear-cut foundation with fewer unnecessary things to be worried about.

Ecologically-friendly: I like this topic not only because it is very informative but also very ecologically-friendly. With all the short-term reasons I provided, one would never suspect that in the long run, traveling light may just be the better way to protect mother earth. Funny but true.

The good thing: When you need less stuff, there is less to manufacture. Less use of vehicles and other machinery to move things around (including you, claro!) so less fuel for vehicles. Less greenhouse gas production. Less damage to our celestial home and greater likelihood of upcoming generations being around to do some light traveling of their own, making the world a better place to live in.

So how do you do it?

Plan ahead. Know your destination. Aside from knowing which tourist spots and accommodation properties, check weather forecast as well so you would know what to wear and types of clothes to bring.

Pack light...and pack smart. You can't stupidly (talagan inispecify) bring anything potentially dangerous and such as knives, box cutters, scissors, lighters, or large quantities of liquids or gels in your carry-on bag. Take note that European Union countries have a minimum of 100 ml per liquid type and maximum of 1 liter per person. Now I leave my Swiss Army knife at home, bring smaller bottles of toiletries, and carry on my bag as usual. You can take an entire set of knives or giant bottle of shampoo to Europe if you like — but you'll have to check your bag in. Grabe na yan.

Airline restrictions. Be aware that many airlines have additional (and frequently changing) restrictions on the number, size, and weight of carry-on bags.Restrictions can vary from airport to airport, even on the same airline. Check your airline's website (or read the fine print on your e-ticket) for details.

A sample of my mailman’s bag – my travel partner in traveling light.

Clockwise: My mailman’s bag, a folder which contains all my document´s (online tickets, hotel reservations, passport), laptop, 6x8 inches vacuum packed set of clothes (you won’t believe it but it contains, 2 shirts, 2 pairs of socks, 2 hankeys, 2 boxers and one pair of slacks), toiletries kit, guide book and camera.

Ps: thanks to Gemisse Tam for introducing me to this vacuum plastic bag.

IN FOCUS: Filipino Pasalubong

2010-07-06T15:43:00.001-07:00

Pasalubong is a Tagalog word which if translated in the American English language would be "keepsake" or "presents". It is a souvenir brought for loved ones or friends (Wikipedia, 2010).

Pasalubong, in general, is a "gift for a relation or friend brought by a traveler returning from a trip, and could also refer to anything given as a gift to someone on the way home to a certain place. It could also mean "homecoming gift" or a present which signifies appreciation to the services rendered by the recipient.

The root of the word is the word "salubong" which means “(to) welcome” or “reception”, while the prefix "pa-" is a shortening of "pang-", which indicates that the root word describes the function of the object (much like the suffix "-er" at the end of an English noun). Thus, the word "pasalubong" may be transliterated as "something meant for you when you welcome me back."

But generally speaking, Filipinos are fond of uttering these word whenever they talk to somebody leaving or somebody coming back home. But what I don’t understand is the fact that one needs to have a certain budget for these souvenirs to be purchased even for the very simple ones like keychains or refrigerator magnets. Yes, it may only cost you a few euros or dollars but there is something about it that bothers me. I think it’s the way the practice of pasalubong is being done.

Let me clarify some points here before I go to some conclusions. These are the questions that I would like to raise.

Why is there a need for us to bring back pasalubong everytime we travel?
How appropriate is it for someone to ask for pasalubong?
Are pasalubongs supposed to be asked or voluntarily presented as a gift?

Cultural Background

In the Philippines it has acquired the meaning of a gift or souvenir from someone traveling either visiting or upon returning home or someone who happens to be away from the house for a period of time or just a day out of the house. The literal meaning of pasalubong is to “greet”, “surprise” or “meet with”. It is often suggest as “salubong” or refers to the act of meeting someone who just arrived and the one arriving, having been warm welcomed, compensates them with a pasalubong. It is not really the pasalubong that matters to a family, but the person who comes back home after a long time (DJ, theworldofdj.com)

Pasalubong is very popular among Filipinos as it keeps the bond with friends, family, relatives or someone who does have close relationship with you. The gesture of handing out "pasalubong" conveys that loved ones are being remembered while away. Pasalubong can range from food items such as fruits, imported confectionary goods and other sweets (i.e. chips, canned goods and the most common are chocolates). Pasalubong can also be other items such as clothing, accessories, novelty items and toys among others. Pasalubongs are often not wrapped and given to someone as it is.

The scope of whom the pasalubong is given to is also very much variable. Some are just bought to be given to the members of the family, while others, like in the case of the balikbayan box are meant for extended families, friends, and even neighbors, co-workers, and the like.

Pasalubong is a very Filipino thing, it’s really bad form to visit anyone except your closest family without bringing something along. Really it’s a very strong custom all across Asia … in Japan or China, for example, you go on vacation, you bring back a gift for everyone else in your office … to do otherwise is really bad mannershttp://liveinthephilippines.com/content/2008/10/ano-pasalubong-mo/) (Dave,

‘Get this’ Comments:

Below are some comments from the website http://antipinoy.com where topics about Philippine corruption, social and political negativisms are being discussed.

This is the first country I’ve been to — and I’ve been in a bunch — where people expect you to bring something if you’re coming to visit them. (BenK)

The first time I travelled to the U.S., I was astounded upon returning to Manila to see all these big boxes emerging out from the baggage carousel. In fact, I spent something like two hours on my last night in the U.s. in this Esprit warehouse store somewhere in the docks of San Francisco while the in-laws picked out boxes of shoes for us to take home with us as padala to their relatives in Manila. That was one fine way to spend one’s last night in SFO. I don’t know if this practice is some kind of leftover relic from some kind of primitive tribute-to-the-elders tradition dating back to our mountain ancestors (BenignO).

These traditions of pasalubong and birthday treat-outs may have their good intentions, but they do certainly tend to hurt the people pressured to give out stuff. Also, because of some fad “values” being spread today, people believe you HAVE to hurt herself when you give. It’s a good thing when I went to Singapore, the people who asked me for pasalubong were just jesting, since they know I went there with hardly a penny in my pocket, and my fare to and fro was paid by my brother there. These traditions are not bad in itself for me when the person themselves wants to give out, but the problems is when other people pressure you for the pasalubongs or libres. It’s like they’re so greedy (ChinoF)

I have seen balikbayan boxes filled with all sorts of stuff that one can easily buy here. What a waste of space! If I were an airport official, I’d stamp “Haiti Relief Goods” on those boxes and have ‘em shipped out immediately…and slip back into civilian clothes when I see the owner searching for his box of tsokolates and cheez balls. Actually, I feel sorry for those who have relatives who expect pasalubong just because one gets to travel…but one can do both sides a favor by educating them on how “kapal” they are. You can’t choose your relatives, so might as well be honest with them. It’s better than avoiding them (Homer).

My point of view:

These are the questions that kept bugging me for years in trying to understand and appreciate the Filipino culture.

Why is there a need for us to bring back pasalubong everytime we travel?

Es asi. Pasalubong is part of the Filipino culture. When we travel, we discover a lot of new things about the destination, no matter where we travel, Asia, America or Europe. The need to bring something back to our loved ones comes naturally as a result of the need to share our experiences through little things that can prove that we have been there. Of course, I have to be very clear about one thing: only if you have the space and the extra budget. Otherwise, photos would suffice.

Unlike other travelers that I know, because traveling has become a personal thing, not much attention is given to whether bringing something from the place you visited would matter to their families or not.

How appropriate is it for someone to ask for pasalubong? Are pasalubongs supposed to be asked or voluntarily presented as a gift?

Since bringing back home pasalubong is a matter of space and budget, I think we should not even try to ask for it. It really depends on the person traveling whether he or she would have the space or the extra budget or not. Hence, if there you have a pasalubong from a friend who have just traveled, then be thankful. If not, be happy for the person and perhaps you can ask for an interesting short story about his or her experiences…

It is all up to you actually. But please do not EVER ask me for one, ok?

By: Ken Subillaga

Erasmus Scholar - Becoming an agent for CHANGE

2010-07-03T13:01:00.000-07:00

By Ken Subillaga

I have always believed that the best things in life are just around the corner and they’re free.

We just have to open our mind and heart to what surrounds us. I am not just talking about having a loving family, enjoying the fine weather, having a healthy body and a set of true friends but also I am talking about finding opportunities in adversities. I have always been a believer that adversity when dealt with correctly, if brings us to that place of clarity and brings out the best in us.

When the French Embassy sent out an invitation letter to the faculty of the School of Hotel, Restaurant and Institution Management of the College of Saint Benilde, no one responded. Simply because the nature of scholarship programs such as, but not limited to Erasmus Mundus, is somewhat tedious and time-consuming. But there was something in me that kept bugging me – that thing that pushes me a bit towards initiating a change and self-development.

My constant search for self-improvement and professional development has always been my leverage to making changes possible, in my own little ways. The catchphrase “the best things in life are free” is perhaps one of the most misunderstood beliefs. For most people, to become successful one needs to have money, and political clout to make things possible. Yes, I agree to a certain extent but personally, to become successful, one needs to simply realize your own philosophies and goals in life paired with strategic planning and well-thought decision making.

Being a scholar provided a whole lot more than just going to school abroad. Some of the most important lessons I have learned in the past few months have greatly influenced how I view myself and my life as Filipino scholar.

What is EMMA?

The Erasmus Mundus Mobility with Asia or commonly known as EMMA, is a scholarship program made possible through the partnership of 8 Asian and 9 European universities lead by the University of Nice Sophia-Antipolis in France seeking for the support of the European Commission in order to encourage individual mobility flows of students of all levels and of members of partner universities.

This program aims to enhance the relationship of European Union States with other countries and aid the development of education, cross-cultural understanding, socio-political affairs, and technological partnerships to bring about economic development. It offers mobility or scholarship programs for undergraduate, master, PhD, Post-Doc students, and Staff from Asian partners countries to EU partner universities.

In the Philippines, there were more than two hundred applications carried out and among the twenty six selected and placed scholarship grants for Lot 9 in Asia included mine – a PhD scholarship grant in Education.

Why Education?

The question I have in mind is always related to making a change in our society towards a better Philippines. It is a question of how can we make Philippines better?

Simply put, if everyone shares in this change, anything is possible. There are three steps in making change happen: (1) Start the change in you, (2) Initiate change in your place of work, (3) Influence other organizations or institution within your industry in making the change. One doesn’t have to look for any farther, or think some complex theories or programs, as these simple steps begin with each and every Filipino. If we want change, then we just have to do it.

My masters’ degree in Education in the field of Learning and Teaching from De La Salle University opened a lot of opportunities and realizations about the problems of the Philippines. One of the most important aspects in change is the ability of a person to evaluate how he can contribute to the betterment of the society. It would be easier if he is able to find meaning in his existence. It may be just a simple statement but it is an important foundation for the education of oneself.

These are some of the things I want to see: The spirit of bayanihan, nationalism, improvement of self and quality of life through EDUCATION.

It is my desire that each Filipino, including those who have had the opportunity to experience international education could somehow pitch in the change that we want to see…

Ken Subillaga is a PhD Scholar at the Universidade de Santiago de Compostela (USC) in Spain under the Erasmus Mundus Mobility with Asia program.

Young Apertures Club

2008-08-14T00:30:00.000-07:00

Please download the file named "young apertures club application form" at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ptour22008/files/

Panglao Island, Bohol

2008-08-07T03:28:00.001-07:00

Bohol

2008-08-07T02:34:00.001-07:00

INDIA: Waking up to an Indian sunset.

2008-03-30T05:26:00.000-07:00

Video: My 2008 India Trip

Enthralling... bewildering... captivating...

These are the words that keep haunting my mind every time I think of India. This will be an experience of a lifetime and a photography journey to behold.

Everyone wants a piece of India. From Aryan, Afghani and Persian invasions to the British era, people from the other side of the world have sought to possess India’s sublime treasures for themselves. As a discerning traveler, I share the same fervor in conquering this magnificent “jewel in the crown” but in a manner where I can blend in the crowd. My desire fervently originates from my continuous search for learning and discovering new cultures of the world.

It is my dream to visit one of the densely populated but culturally known countries in the world. I have been besieged by its iconic and historical structures, indigenous piquant and spicy cuisine and most of all, the desire to gaze at India’s magnificent architectural feat – The Taj Mahal.

Of all the things offered in this country, I was more excited with what awaits me as I travel around India – wandering the peculiar streets of Bombay, visiting the vermin-infested Karni temple of Bikaner or monkey temples of Galtaji, gazing wonderfully at the ancient structures of Lal Qila, experiencing time travel with the giant forts of Fatehpur Sikri and Amber, and appreciating the magnificent taste of authentic Indian cuisine.

No one feels neutral about India. It slams you in the face with heat, spice, dirt and tenacity, and then seduces you with vibrant colors, breath-taking structures and sensual gastronomic pleasures. My experience of the roughness with the smoothness of the Indian culture made me realize that there is a lot more to India than meets the eye.

DUBAI: Where the sun meets the stars...

2008-03-30T05:09:00.000-07:00

I would easily run out of superlatives to describe what I felt inside the moment Cathay Pacific touched down the runway of Dubai International Airport at around 12 midnight local time. The 16 grueling hours of backbreaking flight numbed me from head to toe. The gush of lip-cracking breeze was too much for me to take. I foolishly failed to do my research; January was winter in the Middle East. Maybe I was already down with aircraft sickness as when I was rushing towards the counter; unmindful about the Arabs pushing their trolleys out of the huge sliding doors, an Indian guy named Francis looked faintly like an angel with the golden halo over his head. Thank god, Jumeirah International had its own Hospitality Lounge…

Still lightheaded, Hassam the driver asked in his distinct Egyptian accent for my passport. Shocked but warily obliged. Whatever… I quietly mumbled with my comical facial expression staring blankly at the magnificent, colorful and visually nerve-racking sight standing right next to our radar-monitored Arabic superhighway. My blurry eyes were wide open like a child awaiting a feeding bottle, the Burj Al Arab standing 321 meters above the ground was exquisitely stunning… The hotel I have considered my hotelier’s ultimate workplace.

I couldn’t sleep through the night with the Burj Al Arab waving at me through my box-like room window. Shoot…! I had to go to work at exactly seven in the morning that same day and I only had 2 more hours to sleep. Suffice it to say, I prepped up and went to work.

Then, my new life began.

What is Dubai?

In recent years, Dubai has carved itself a niche as the number one tourist destination in the Middle East and not without good reason. The southern waters of the Arabian Gulf wash gently against mile upon mile of clean, pristinely fine sandy beach. Inland, the terrain ranges from desert to mountain interspersed by verdant oases.

In the city of Dubai, where traditions of Arabian hospitality are of paramount importance, fascinating blends of old and new, and of East and West, surrounds the visitor.

And as Dubai has grown in stature, the hospitality industry has blossomed. The emirate can now offer first-class luxury accommodation to rival any in the world, with stunning properties both on the beach and in the city.

The Burj Al Arab

Opened just before the dawn of the new millennium, Burj Al Arab is the ultimate symbol of Dubai’s determination to be a world-class tourist destination. The stunning property has been officially declared the world’s tallest hotel. Burj Al Arab also breaks new ground with its superlative standards of accommodation and service in its suites, leisure facilities and restaurants.

Describing blissfully, Burj Al Arab’s sail-shaped structure, soaring 321 meters above the Arabian Gulf and 280 meters off-shore, taller than the Eiffel Tower is universally regarded as a symbol of the new millennium. Built on a man-made island, Burj Al Arab houses 27 floors of 202 duplex suites, 6 restaurants, 1 huge ballroom, a library & Spa, and 8 extravagant signature shops.

It is no surprise then, that these developments have captured the imagination of holidaymakers and business travelers from all corners of the globe.

PALAWAN: A realization for a lifetime.

2008-03-30T04:38:00.000-07:00

Domestic travels have been the focal point in my constant pursuit for incessant erudition and love for journalistic travel. This was made possible by the support afforded by my loved ones and friends both in my chosen field of expertise and social league. The thought of having people remember me when I am no longer existing made my desire a more than just simple task but a fervently strong determination to start carving out a digest of my travels and my epiphanies as human being whose existence made the 21st century a lot more colorful. In the end, I would have attained the ultimate personal victory that people of the world may perhaps remember how vividly magnificent I have lived…

Equipped with a rucksack and my newly purchased Nikon D40 (hey, it still is my camera despite the numerous releases), the students of De La Salle- College of Saint Benilde taking up HRIM embarked on a short-haul journey to the Philippine’s Last Frontier – Palawan.

My Palawan travel included numerous visits to Palawan’s most sought-after spots. These are only few of what one could possibly indulge in.

Palawan's most visited bay area is known to everyone as Honda Bay. The bay consists of several islets with shallow reefs bordering fabulous beaches which have become the favorite swimming, snorkelling, and diving destinations of local residents and tourists. These islets are the Cannon (Cowrie) Island, Bat Island, Lu-Ii Island (derived from the word ""lulubog-lilitaw"", meaning floating and sinking island, is visible only during low tide), Meara Marina, Starfish Island (known for its fine white sand and clear water that teems with starfish), Snake Island (an island with a long stretch of fine white sand shaped like a snake), Pandan Island, and Senorita Island (the breeding site of lapu-lapu fish). Lodging facilities are available for overnight stays in the islands of Meara Marina and Starfish (Sandbar Resort).

The bay is located in Sta. Lourdes Tagbanua, Puerto Princesa City. About 12 kilometers east of Puerto Princesa City is Sta. Lourdes wharf where pumpboats could be hired to take tourists to the island of their choice. Some islands require an entrance fee; others are privately owned, thus, permits from the owners are necessary. Sta. Lourdes wharf is 25 minutes away by hired tricycle or jeepney. A pumpboat ride from the wharf to the different islands is from 15 to 50 minutes.

To be continued….

BANAUE: A culture on its own.

2008-03-30T04:16:00.000-07:00

The Paradigm Shift

I was feeling a slight trepidation while students were boarding three jam-packed buses with huge clear windows spanning across students’ peculiar but excited faces, unmindful of what lies ahead, ready to embark on a grueling 10-hour journey to our tourism class destination…Banaue.

I was once asked by a friend how enthralled (a hyperbolical statement I guess) I was with the thought of visiting Banaue. I dreary shrugged to confirm. For most Filipinos, this destination is commonly considered a dull and not-so illustrious Philippine outskirt territory. The thought remained unscathed for sometime until my frivolous yearning for photography journalism pervasively enveloped my travel pursuits.

The month of March has always been delightfully cool to visit Banaue and travelling with 17- to 20-year old students was more like sheep herding than the usual leisure travel.

Banaue is one of the localities of Ifugao Province in the Cordillera Administrative Region of Luzon Island. It is located approximately 350 kilometers north of Manila and the usual thought of getting there was initially less fun and exciting because of the grueling hours of land trip. Travel time varies depending on whether it is an arranged bus travel (in which case it takes about 10 hours or less), or 12 to 14 hours when traveling on public transportation because of numerous stops between major bus stations. The lack of air transportation facility makes it more incomprehensively complicated to travel in style and ease. Allocentric travelers usually take comfort in the availability of (used-to) chartered public transportation like Victory Liner, Dangwa Transco and Autobus which leave Manila daily to twice weekly at a very reasonable rate.

The Twists and Turns

The sun’s rays had barely begun to lighten the ruddy yellowish sky when our bus engaged away from the seemingly abandoned green and white colored institution at the heart of Singalong area. The realization of ardous traveling came about after a long day of non-stop search for interesting things to do (except when everyone else is sleeping). Each stop made afforded students the opportunity to share moments with one another. The simple joys of being with friends, going to the powder room, or buying a cup of coffee made simple photography more exciting and a lot more.

On our way to Banaue, we passed by Solano, a quaintly populated town in Nueva Vizcaya. Although there was nothing much to see, I was briefly awestruck by this hotel along the main road with such amazingly colorful and stylish exterior decor. This hotel is called Hotel Elnora Zuraek more visually identifiable as Zuraek Covita Building (the signage for whatever reason, uses a 10-inch x10-inch maroon tiles from top to bottom of the building’s facade to form the words, huh). Although I haven’t stayed in this hotel yet, people often say it’s a nice, comfortable and decent serviced apartment-style accommodation with basic amenities with rates ranging from Php 1500 to 3000 (US$ 35 to 70) per night.

The students’ relentless search for meaning waned as we felt the gush of cool breeze drifting through the crevices of the bus’ slightly displaced windows. Finally…Banaue! “It feels what seems like fall in some countries,” billowed one student. Since our destination was in the mountain slopes and on the windward side of Luzon’s mountainous area, Banaue and the surrounding municipalities tend to be cooler from December to March, ranging from a delightfully comfortable 16 to 20°C during daytime, to a chilly 10 to 12°C at nighttime.

The Dwelling Game

The vast greenish background of the hill where the Banaue Hotel charmingly sits was lightly covered with a grayish, stingy haze. Just as the sun started to bid goodbye to the gloomy day, we gracefully approached the main gate of the Philippine Tourism Authority property (of course, I am talking about The Banaue Hotel). Everyone dazedly disembarked the bus with a great sense of anticipation for the barely 4-star service that awaited us. After all, we were quietly looking forward to the comfort and warmth of a soft hotel bed lined with crisp white sheets. The hotel is the only 4-star (however you define it :-)) property which has around 100 modest and clean rooms. But more than any other hotel amenities, the breath-taking world-renowned rice terraces view from our room porch made our arduous trip to Banaue worthwhile.

Much to my surprise, the hotel does not only provide its guests with the usual hotel amenities and (not so much of) facilities, but also offers quite a unique form of cultural overture; the cultural dance presentations which usually runs briefly for at least an hour. It was the perfect way to end our first evening in a land that some of us city dwellers considered to be uniquely strange.

The Way They Were

The Banaue transportation system has always been quaintly rudimentary and less urbane. Getting to short distances (even a couple kilometers), made it necessary for one to hire a three-wheeled motorcycle commonly known as a tricycle. It normally costs around Php 50 to 100 (US$ 2-4) for a tricycle ride, regardless of the number of people riding the vehicle. Of course, as the picture below clearly shows, this local means of transport only comfortably seats 2 to 3 persons. On the other hand, going to remote and distant neighboring destinations, which includes Viewpoint, Banga-an Village or Hapao, which ideally requires one to hire a jeepney (just a bit longer than an army jeep and outfitted with various decorations), which will cost you around Php 1500 (US$ 35) or a little bit more for a one day rent.

The Ifugaos and Us: Two Worlds’ Apart

Where in the Philippines can you find tribesmen who speak in English? Only in Banaue. Although Ilocano (a Philippine dialect) is widely spoken, it was hilariously unbelievable to find yourself talking to an Ifugao who spoke fluent English in the remotest part of the Cordillera highlands. Moreover, every time you said ‘thank you’, be prepared to hear a common response that goes ‘you’re welcome’. Remember, this is one of the remotest part of the mountainous region…

The Ifugaos have a wide array of costume designs and accessories that span marital status, social classes, and a lot more. Banaue’s tribal groups have preserved traditional art forms such as woodcarving, textile weaving, bamboo and rattan weaving, and alchemy. Artistic body adornments such as beaded jewelry and body tattoos are a common sight. Women skirts and headdresses are important indications of social status. The Ifugaos are known for their sculptural wood carvings of ‘bulul’ (a local rice god) figures, which represent guardian deities. The figures are ritually placed in rice granaries to bring a plentiful harvest. A common souvenir item may usually involve purchasing bulul in various forms and sizes which is quite inexpensive but is a truly Ifugao keepsake.

Ifugaos have long regarded a conspicuously odd oral health practice, chewing Nga-nga as a way of life. This entails chewing a heart-shaped betel nut leaf containing lime paste and tabacco jerky. This is then chewed incessantly at least once a day to fortify tooth strength and keep the oral cavity free from bacteria. The odd thing about this practice is that the person is refrained from swallowing nga-nga and therefore spews out this queasy, visually unpleasant brick-red colored spit almost anywhere possible (define anywhere possible? anywhere you want).

The Tam’Am Village: A Histrionic Quest

A stone-throw down Banaue Hotel lies a preserved Ifugao village called “Tam’Am”. The village is about 200 back-breaking steps down the hill with its undefeated slippery tracks. Suffice it to say, if it rains, something or someone is bound to fall. The village offers an Ifugao culture in its natural setting (albeit not 100%). Traditional huts are a common sight. The village has about 15 families and most families stay in this traditional Ifugao hut. Although they were not dressed in traditional garb, they’ll happily let you in their houses, take photos, interact, or sell you their traditional wooden art products, souvenir fabrics, and even show you the skeletal remains (I’m not kidding) of their great grand parents (for a fee/donation). Some may even invite you to dine with them (if you set an appointment maybe). An hour or two would be substantially sufficient to make you wander around a bit just to get a good grasp of how an Ifugao lives on a daily basis.

The Banaue Rice Terraces: Stairways to Heaven

Most commonly identified as a tourist shopping destination, the Viewpoint (one of Banaue’s highest points) offers more than just delicacies, wooden arts, tobacco, fabrics and clothes. It offers a unique location for those who would like to be visually overwhelmed by Ifugao’s major architectural feat and a cultural heritage landscape, the Banaue Rice Terraces. The terraced rice fields were built over a period of centuries by carving steps into the mountainsides and reinforcing each level with stone walls using only mud to keep stones together. (see chapter on rice terraces). These structures were built to pave the way for the Ifugao’s livelihood…rice production. These rice terraces and their irrigation systems date from as early as 1000 BC. The rice terraces are an awesome sight, climbing from the base of the mountains like massive green stairways. It is said that their length, put end to end, would encircle half the globe.

Banga-An Village: A Walk to Remember

Another way to see the rice terraces and experience the cultural uniqueness of Ifugao is to visit this almost impossibly accessible village called Banga-An Village by hiring a jeepney. About 1 kilometer down the hill lies an almost perfect sanctuary of the Ifugaos. This village is accessed by trekking the dangerously slippery narrow terrace tracks. Tourists may find comfort in experiencing what a traditional Ifugao community setting is in this secluded community. Aside from diminutive stores offering basic commodities, wooden art products are available for sale. There was even a coffee shop offering rice coffee and some Ifugao drinks to the public.

This rare heritage experience made such a great impact on how I regard Philippine’s cultural framework. The metacognition leap overwhelmed the whole educational trip, making all of us see the other side of Filipino culture. The processes involved in understanding how this unpretentious and restrained little town has greatly affected tourism and how this cultural sanctuary found its way to the soul of travelers across the globe, made it even more interestingly daunting to attempt discovering what really makes it a destination to behold. With so much more to return to in the future, this scholarly task brought a new meaning to the word Cultural Heritage both for me and my students.

The future holds no hesitations for local and international travelers. As always, the question whether we would like to embark on a journey to discover something new but just within reach or not still remains a personal issue.

Not so many will attempt to arduously travel to experience an opportunity to learn;

Not so many will have the opportunity to get to know and understand deeper our Filipino heritage;

Not so many will finally recognize that we are not just a hodge-podge of cultures but a truly unique and one-of-a-kind culture on our own…

by: Ken Subillaga
March 2008