Saturday morning. Nearly 30°C.

I was among the travel bloggers invited to the launch of Wings of the World birds show at Magaul Bird Park, JEST Camp, Subic. Our pick-up location in Quezon City: Caltex gas station fronting Trinoma mall.

Minutes past 7:30 AM when our vehicle arrived. I couldn’t wait to leave the city as the sweltering morning heat started to seep in and the humidity was becoming unbearable. At that rate of sunshine, I could tell it was indeed the beginning of summer. At 8 AM, our vehicle finally set off for Subic.

Overlooking Subic Bay Freeport Zone

By the time we reached the three-hour mark of our land travel, our van was driving uphill a forested area in Subic Bay Freeport Zone. Soon enough, we would come to a complete stop at Magaul Bird Park inside JEST Camp.

How to make a rice cooker the primitive way

We gathered at the Pavillion near the main gate of Magaul Bird Park. We had a quick welcome chat, an overview of our itinerary for the day, and the activities we would have over the weekend. After dropping our belongings at the Barracks, we headed to the Demo House for a short survival session.

Making fire out of bamboo stalks

Our Jungle Survival Demo was facilitated by an officer who happened to be of Aeta descent. The lecture was mainly about making fire out of bamboo, creating a set of utensils using the same material, and extracting potable water out of a wild vine. The room was filled with oohs and aahs during the demo.

Greenwich Ultimate Overload Barkada Pizza

Just when I thought we’ve escaped the summer heat in Manila, it was as scorching that day in JEST Camp, even hotter if it wasn’t for the towering trees in the vicinity. Thankfully, the guys from Greenwich Pizza started giving out pearl coolers to all guests at the venue so we had some pre-lunch refreshment to combat the summer heat.

Greenwich Jumbo Crunchy Chicken

And it didn’t end there. Greenwich even prepared a barkada feast for our group at Bird’s Eye View Deck. Served on the table were boxes of ultimate overload barkada pizza, lasagna supreme, a bucket of jumbo crunchy chicken, mango pearl coolers, and choco banana crisp. It was mouthwatering and palatable at the same time.

Steamed rice cooked in bamboo tubes

After our Greenwich meal, we headed upstairs for a more primitive style of lunch. Kawayan Kitchen prepared sinampalukang manok (PHP 180) and steamed rice (PHP 120), both cooked and served in bamboo tubes, as well as buttered shrimp (PHP 295) and grilled liempo (PHP 185). Sinampalukang manok was the clear winner—it was full of flavors and not too sour for our taste buds.

The gorgeous Angelee delos Reyes seated at the opposite table

It was during our lunch when I started recognizing faces from mainstream media. Down below, near Sky Flyer, was TV personality Kat de Castro, daughter of famous news anchor Noli de Castro. Not too far from my seat was the perky Maey Bautista from GMA 7, who wore a striking amalgam of colorful feathers and bright accessories. Lastly, close to our table was a gorgeous lady who undoubtedly stood out from the crowd. I learned from my friend that she’s Angelee delos Reyes, a titleholder beauty queen—no wonder she exuded such regal and stunning beauty!

500 birds were brought to stage during the Wings of the World launch

At 2:30 PM we converged once again at Alula Amphitheater for the official launch of Wings of the World. A spectacular birds show was ready to take place and a record-breaking half-a-thousand birds were set to be brought to stage for the audience to see. As expected, the crowd went wild when the birds got released, some soared overhead, and flew toward their trainers onstage.

Celebrity Maey Bautista had a close encounter with the birds

After the bird show, our group agreed to try Aerial Adventure Walk. It was like an obstacle course made of tight ropes and parallel cables attached to trees—guests must cross all the bridges to complete the adventure challenge. It started so easy at Burma Bridge, but after we passed Barreling, things became tougher. The cable bridges were wobbly, the steps seemed more unstable, and our palms got damper that a minor slip could leave us hanging (safely) from the wires. In the end, we successfully finished the activity and made our hearts shout in full triumph.

Experienced Sky Flyer before we ended the day

Come nightfall and shortly after dinner, we gathered near the Demo House for another activity to formally close the night. Once the pile of dry wood was assembled and the bonfire was lit, we stepped closer to the blaze and drew out our bamboo sticks.

For now we would enjoy the moment as we grill cocktail hotdogs and fluffy marshmallows by the fire. Tomorrow, friendships would temporarily fall apart and new allies would form as we battle it out for the 5th JEST Camp Hunger Games.

Who would emerge victor? My final thought was more like, “May the odds be ever in my favor”.

Magaul Bird Park Ticket Reservation

Manila Booking Office: (02) 2189023 or +639175310992
Subic Booking Office: (047) 2521489 or +639088207048 and +639177964668.

The post Ultimate Barkada Getaway: Magaul Bird Park at JEST Camp Subic appeared first on kurtzky.

Just when I thought Batangas would be boring and predictable the nth time around, the coastal town of Lobo turned out to be a pleasant surprise.

It has become our yearly tradition to travel together and escape from each other’s mundane office tasks. For nearly seven years since our graduation, my college classmates and I have upheld our enthusiasm to catch up with one another despite conflict in schedules on career and family commitments. For seven years, Batangas has played a significant role in our travels; in fact, of all seven trips, four had been accomplished at the sandy coasts of Batangas.

View from the peak of Mt. Tibig

This year, we went to a place that most travelers have never heard of. We aimed to veer away from touristy destinations and go somewhere that’s honest, something that’s underrated but within our reach. And so, we found Lobo in Batangas.

Enjoying the scenery en route to the summit of Mt. Tibig

Activities and Sights in Lobo

1. Hike up Mt. Tibig

Get your soles dirty and gear up for a hike that would test your patience and endurance. With an altitude of 563 MASL, Mt. Tibig is considered a minor climb with difficulty level of 2 over 9. It takes about two to three hours to complete the ascend from the jumpoff site at Hulong Banalo to the summit of Mt. Tibig.

The trail up Mt. Tibig is reminiscent of Mt. Dagulgol in San Juan, Batangas. It starts with a sudden assault up a narrow winding dirt path that gets very slippery during the dry season when the soil is too dehydrated to support traction. The grassy peak of Mt. Tibig offers a breathtaking view of Verde Island Passage and other surrounding mountains.

Approaching the summit of Mt. Tibig

2. Splash around Malabrigo Beach

If you are accustomed to the grey shore of San Juan or the black sand of Lemery, the rocky coast of Malabrigo Beach in Lobo will take you by surprise. Pebbles are strewn around the area starting from the edge of the seashore down to the bottom of the ocean. This overwhelming view of rocky coastline makes Malabrigo an exotic piece of destination in Lobo, if not the whole province of Batangas.

The lack of sand in the seabed greatly contributes to the clarity of water in Malabrigo Beach. Even from afar you will see that the rocks glisten from beneath the surface. Crystal clear, so to speak. More importantly, the lesser volume of tourists creates a positive impact on the overall character of the place.

Stony shoreline of Malabrigo Beach

3. Visit Malabrigo Lighthouse

Malabrigo Lighthouse, commonly referred to by locals as parola, is a small lighthouse perched on a hill near the tip of Malabrigo Beach. Visitors who are staying at private resorts in Malabrigo can take a leisurely walk from their resort uphill toward the lighthouse. The parola offers a scenic view of Verde Island Passage and the distant Verde Island.

At the side of the cliff near the lighthouse is a concrete staircase. Tourists can get down this staircase toward a pebbly stretch of coastline where they could bask under the sun and enjoy the ripple of the ocean.

Malabrigo Lighthouse, locally known as parola

Sample Itinerary

Day 1 (Saturday)
0500 – Depart Manila
0900 – ETA Lobo, Batangas. Register at Lobo police station. Breakfast.
0930 – ETA Hulong Banalo. Prepare for the hike.
1000 – Start trekking
1300 – ETA Summit. Lunch.
1500 – Start descent
1700 – Back at Hulong Banalo. Go to beach resort. Overnight stay.

Day 2 (Sunday)
0700 – Breakfast
0800 – Visit Malabrigo Lighthouse. Swimming.
1000 – Free time
1200 – Lunch
1600 – ETD Lobo, Batangas
2000 – ETA Manila

On top of a boulder at Mt. Tibig

Travel Budget

This sample breakdown of expense is for a group of 10 persons. Amount may vary depending on the mode of transportation and the number of travelers in a group.

650 PHP – Jeepney rent for two days (Php6,500/10)
20 PHP – Lobo environmental users fee (per head)
50 PHP – Mt. Tibig guide fee (Php500/10)
150 PHP – Contribution for dinner, breakfast and lunch (Php1,500/10)
350 PHP – Airconditioned room at Villa Marquez Resort (Php3,500/10)
1,220 PHP – Total per person

What to Wear (Mt. Tibig)

• Comfortable trekking shoes or sandals
• Light shirt
• Arm sleeves
• Trekking short or pants
• Cap/hat/sunglasses

Important Things to Bring

• Packed lunch (for Day 1 – Mt. Tibig Traverse)
• Trail food
• Drinking water
• Insect repellent
• Sunblock
• Antihistamine
• First aid kit
• Garbage bag
• Mobile phone
• Camera
• Umbrella/raincoat
• Toiletries
• Blanket/malong
• Towels
• Swimming clothes
• Portable stove and cooking set
• Utensils
• Cash

Overlooking the ocean from the parola

Contact Details

Kuya Gabino (Mt. Tibig) – 09264916824 / 09194403941
Villa Marquez Resort – 09278393288 / 09477814839
Punta Malabrigo Beach Resort – 09165588487 / 09097829630

Getting There

Public Commute: From Manila, board the bus bound for Batangas City and get off at Balagtas. Take another jeepney bound for Lobo.

Private Vehicle: Take South Luzon Expressway and exit at Sto. Tomas. Continue your drive toward Star Tollway and exit at Lipa. Follow the road to Rosario and Taysan until you reach Lobo town proper.

Top: Kuya Gabino, our contact person at Hulong Banalo; Bottom: Lobo Municipal Police Station

Practical Tips

• Malabrigo Beach is 7.8 kms away from Lobo town proper. You can take tricycle to get to your resort
• The tricycle ride from Lobo town proper to Hulong Banalo (Mt. Tibig jumpoff) costs PHP200 good for five persons
• To get to Hulong Banalo from town proper, take Batangas-Tabangao-Lobo Road and turn right at Banalo Elementary School. Continue your way through the rough road until you reach the second basketball court
• The cost of a tour guide to Mt. Tibig is PHP500
• Tourists are required to pay the PHP20 Environmental Users Fee. In addition, hikers to Mt. Tibig must register their names at Lobo Municipal Police Station.

The post Rediscovering Batangas: Mt. Tibig and Malabrigo Beach in Lobo appeared first on kurtzky.

My heart was racing fast. I was camouflaged in the forest clutching a gun in one hand and a tote of weapons in the other, treading stealthily toward my first unsuspecting victim.

A stout man—the tribute I recognized from District 5—stood unwary of his fate in the Arena. He was an easy target; I took the opportunity to attack him from behind. I vehemently dropped my conscience, dashed toward the direction of the man and hurled my weapon directly onto his head. He tried to retaliate but it was too late to fight for his life.

Alas, the 5th JEST Camp Hunger Games has begun.

The eight tributes before the start of 5th JEST Camp Hunger Games

Well, it wasn’t as fatal as it sounds. While the real Hunger Games in books and films enforce brutal killings and gory encounters, its counterpart in JEST Camp, Subic doesn’t promote violence. There are no real crossbows, daggers, or axes; weapons are simply made of water balloons and plastic guns are filled with colored liquid.

JEST Camp Hunger Games is derived from the concept of the book of the same title. There would be tributes to represent the 12 districts of Panem, and these representatives would be strewn in a forested area, known as the Arena, where they’d fight and ‘kill’ each other. Only one single tribute would emerge victor in the end.

Trying my hardest to make fire out of bamboo tube

Like the tributes in the book, each of us had undergone intensive training at a faux Capitol before we were deployed to the actual Hunger Games. We started off early in the morning and gathered at a vacant area for drawing of district numbers (I got District 7), and shortly after that we had a survival demonstration on making fire out of dried bamboo tubes. All trainings were completed during the first half of the day.

Hunger Games would be done in the afternoon. Each tribute would have three ribbons attached to his body, and attackers must get at least one ribbon by any means in order for the kill to be valid. When all three ribbons are detached, the tribute would be eliminated from the game.

Running for our lives to Cornucopia

Here’s the catch: to be hailed victor, one must win not only the games but also get high scores in the training camp activities, namely: fire making, shelter building, trap setting, and archery. This means that even if you topped the Hunger Games but flunked the fire making and archery, you’d still lose.

When it was time our to engage for Hunger Games, our adrenaline levels and excitement shot sky high. The thought of being released into the Arena to knock each other down was nerve-wracking and thrilling at the same time.

One tribute inside the Arena

I balanced myself on one of the rounded logs facing the Cornucopia. From a distance I could see a bunch of weaponry disposed on the ground. I listened carefully to the rules of the Game Master, and as soon as he finished his countdown from ten to one, us tributes lunged across the field and ran toward the pile of defence at the Cornucopia.

Now we’re dispersed in the Arena. No one dared to move. Everybody seemed hesitant to attack. At that time I wished I had a dozen eyes on my back to look out for assailants sneaking from behind. I stepped on dead leaves as I scoured for easy targets.

In order for the kill to be valid, a tribute must yank a ‘life ribbon’ by any means from the enemy

Then there’s the guy from District 5, standing carefree as if harm is not imminent. I strode to his direction and sent my first water balloon directly to his head. He returned an expression of surprise before he attempted to fight back. As soon as I yanked one ribbon from his neck, I ran back to the trees. He did not run after me.

More screams filled the air when the game became tense. Hidden behind the trunk of a tree, I waited until everyone’s exhausted their water balloons. Other tributes had already been tagged dead and our time in the Arena was running short.

District 9 chasing District 7. It was an intense game at the Arena

I must kill another one. I showed myself to the center of happenings where all other tributes were fighting each other. This time, the girl from District 9 was within my reach. I ran toward her, threw a water balloon but missed, and I was ready to snatch the ribbon—

“Put*ng inaaaa!” (expletive), the girl ran after me in full-blown rage. With all might and force I sprinted back to where I came from. The girl was really agitated; luckily the chase ended short for she didn’t get me.

It was action-packed. Now I could feel what it’s like to be in the Hunger Games. I was catching my breath. Good thing my feet were nimble enough to recover from my failed attack. Bad news, I wasn’t able to kill the girl.

The Game Master made his final whistle; the game was over. Four tributes including me remained alive. But going back to the rules, only one must be awarded as victor of the 5th JEST Camp Hunger Games. It meant we had to undergo a series of tie-breaking tests to conclude who’s really the victor. Sadly, I was eliminated from the playoffs. I ranked third at the Hunger Games.

Pinoy Travel Bloggers at Magaul Bird Park before the Hunger Games. See how clean we were back then!

When the game ended we traveled by foot from the Arena to Magaul Bird Park. The tension had been relieved and now we’re back to the real world—to where us tributes are friends. The girl from District 9 that I attempted to kill couldn’t get over with the momentous chase that transpired between us. We laughed at our funny moments back in the Arena.

The Game Master had tallied all the scores including the points we acquired from fire making and archery. Overall, the girl from District 9, Carla of Blissfulguro.com, was named victor of 5th JEST Camp Hunger Games. She would be competing in the Quarter Quell wherein all victors from the 1st Hunger Games to the 12th would be gathered for another action-packed Hunger Games.

Would you want to be the next victor? If so, then may the odds be ever in your favor.

About JEST Camp Hunger Games

Website: www.jesthungergames.com
Fee: Php999/pax (inclusive of lunch) minimum of 10pax
Tel. No.: 63-47-2521489 | Globe: +639177964668 | Smart: +639088207048
Manila Booking Office: (02) 2189023 | Globe: +639175310992 | Sun: +639223844227

Photo credits: Christian Sangoyo of Lakad Pilipinas.

The post Dodging weapons, catching fire at JEST Camp Hunger Games appeared first on kurtzky.

“Are we nearly there yet, Teacher Brenda?“, I limped.

“No, not even halfway through it“, she grinned.

Doused in sweat, a damp towel round my neck, I traipsed forward munching on a mixed bag of cheap nuts, jelly, and chocolate candies. My face now bore a blend of astonishment and fatigue; I never expected the trek to be that tough.

Every Sunday of the school year, Teacher Brenda hikes the same trail from Mayoyao, the town proper, to Sitio Patyay, a remote highland village at the foot of Mt. Amuyao in the province of Ifugao. She goes another round back to town every Friday to spend quality time with her family over the weekend. She’s been doing the routine for nearly six years that she’s adapted to the ups and downs of the trail.

Teacher Brenda, the only primary school teacher at Sitio Patyay, is the catalyst of Project Rain Boots.

Scenic view en route to Sitio Patyay in Mayoyao, Ifugao

One cause, one team

My group’s initial plans were as vivid as the rice paddies of Ifugao. Our vision was clear and our goal was on point: we wanted to give the local farmers of Sitio Patyay and their kids, through the help of Teacher Brenda, what they deemed helpful to them—rain boots. But the ultimate question for us back then was, how would we accumulate the needed funds? The target quantity of boots might not be met if the assistance would only come from our group, which is only a small cluster within the company I work for. Then we thought, what if we widen our reach and knock at the hearts of our office colleagues? Thus, the conception of Project Rain Boots.

When we rolled out the mail to fellow employees, we couldn’t believe the tremendous outpouring of donations and pledges that we received. The support from various departments of our company was overwhelming; their compassion for the beneficiary was beyond our expectations. It just proved that there’s always someone who’s willing to help, no matter how big or small the cause is, and that the employees live by the organization’s core value—one team.

Sitio Patyay is too isolated we had to cross narrow bridges over gushing streams and hold on to a deracinated tree by an eroded ledge

Road to bliss

More than a hundred pairs of boots were transported to the mountains from Manila after a nine-hour bus travel, a four-hour upslope jeepney ride, and a five-hour strenuous hike. It might seem like a leisure adventure, but truth is there’s more to it than meets the eye: the community of Sitio Patyay is too isolated we had to cross narrow bridges over gushing streams, hold on to a fallen tree by an eroded ledge, balance ourselves on unstable terrace dikes, and enthuse one other to surmount the steepest ascent at the final portion of the climb. Physically, it wasn’t easy.

But the struggle was short-lived for we went there for a life-changing cause. This positive mindset fueled us to finish the long hike. The sight of local porters effortlessly shouldering the sacks of boots for their community was remedy to our worn out soles: those men, the fathers who endured the grueling hike with us, still managed to display an expression of joy despite the difficult course we all took.

Maga Rice Terraces. This marked the second half of our five-hour hike to Sitio Patyay

Effects of the Cause

We arrived at Sitio Patyay minutes before sundown. The kids and their parents had already gathered outside the village’s lone school perched atop a hill. Hearty giggles greeted us as we trudged toward the wooden classroom painted with the words “Welcome Patyay Primary School“.

A short program happened at nightfall. Teacher Brenda initiated the event and had her pupils perform special numbers for us. After the presentations, she called all the people on her master list, and we went on with the distribution of rain boots to the local farmers, their wives and kids. For every pair of boots that we gave, a broad smile we received.

The activity did not end at the distribution of rain boots. Shortly after dinner, the elders of the village performed Kanyaw, a ritual dance of the indigenous peoples of the Cordillera. When the sacred ceremony was over, the tribesmen let the volunteers join their traditional dance around a campfire.

With the young children of Sitio Patyay before the distribution of rain boots

As the night came to a close, us volunteers returned to our temporary shelter to ready for a good night’s sleep. It had been a long day, and we were extremely glad that our company as a whole made the residents of Sitio Patyay very happy. Our collaborative effort to ease the way of life and uplift the spirits of the people living in the mountains indeed paid off.

Soon enough, the boots will be used when the rainy season comes in. Even when the roads get too muddy and slippery during rainy days, the kids won’t skip school anymore and their parents won’t have a hard time tending their crops like it was in the past.

With all these positive thoughts in my head, my vision faded out and I cocooned in my sleeping bag—at a place where cricket chirps are music, stars are a source of light, and mountains are the so-called ‘high-rise’.

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Last weekend my blogger friends and I had the opportunity to explore Cabanatuan City, Nueva Ecija in partnership with Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Cabanatuan. For two days we toured the city and its neighboring towns by visiting historical destinations, indulging in various food tasting activities, and discovering off the beaten path summer attractions.

The key historical places we visited are Aquino-Diokno Memorial in Fort Magsaysay and Camp Pangatian Shrine in Cabanatuan. Heritage sites include National Shrine of Virgen La Divina Pastora and the ancestral homes of Gapan. Natural attractions are Pahingahan in Fort Magsaysay and Minalungao National Park in General Tinio.

Of course we won’t forget the delicious fare Cabanatuan has to offer. Hapag Vicentico’s, NYORK Coffee and Sweetness, and Rosenda’s Restaurant are among the food establishments we took pleasure in.

To give you an overview of our trip, here’s a short video that I made. Enjoy!

The post Travel Video: Pinoy Travel Bloggers in Cabanatuan City, Nueva Ecija appeared first on kurtzky.

It was the beginning of summer season and I knew it so well for beads of sweat trickled down my forehead when I exited the train station in GMA Kamuning on a Saturday noon. My friends had been waiting for me at a nearby convenience store, ready to leave as soon as I turned up, and they, too, were feeling the summer heat as they waited inside a fully airconditioned store. When I arrived, the four of us immediately hailed a taxi to Luxent Hotel along Timog Avenue in Quezon City.

Just a few minutes since we left, our taxi finally stopped at Luxent Hotel. Classified as a four star hotel, Luxent is a 16-floor luxury hotel strategically located at the heart of social gatherings and business events in Quezon City, popular to many as Timog and Tomas Morato.

Lexi Bear joining me on my lunch

When we first stepped into the lobby of Luxent Hotel, we knew it’s not just an ordinary business hotel. It was really modern; ritzy, so to speak. The front desk was glowing with brilliant lights, a beautiful painting on the wall above it served as a decoration; wooden tables and chairs were neatly arranged at the lounge and a contemporary piano sat in the corner. Far across the room was a marvelous display of fine glass panels, standing so high that it almost touched the ceiling, shimmering every time the light hit them; I learned that it was the hotel bar and I was impressed by its elegance.

The classy Lush Bar as viewed from the mezzanine

Some of our friends were already in Luxent when we arrived. We had lunch first at the Lush Bar & Lounge, the stylish indoor dining area of Luxent Hotel, before we went to our respective bedrooms. I ordered the classic Beef Tapa, served with scrambled egg, garlic rice and sukang Iloko, and a few slices of fresh fruits on the side.

Beef Tapa for lunch, partnered with a glass of ripe mango shake

Our twin room was a fusion of classic and modern features. It was fully carpeted with streaks of blue and gold; sleek wooden furniture faced the two beds and a colorful painting hung from the wall. It also had a balcony where we got a clearer view of the neighborhood. There was also a working desk adjacent to the glass door that separated the main room and the balcony. The bedroom was also equipped with cable TV, Wi-Fi access, and telephone line that connected us to other rooms and to the front desk.

Our twin room was a blend of classic and modern features

Hotel room toiletries

After spending a few hours in our rooms, the ten of us gathered at the ground floor for our buffet dinner at the Garden Cafe. Having to celebrate the birthday of our traveler friend, it was indeed a special night for our group. And much to our surprise, Luxent Hotel prepared a special chocolate cake for the birthday celebrant.

The chefs of Garden Cafe

Roasted pig (lechon) was part of the dinner buffet

It was a sumptuous buffet dinner at the Garden Cafe. There was a wide selection of all-time favorite international dishes ranging from Japanese maki, tempura and sushi, to Chinese dumplings and Filipino crispy lechon. There was an overflow of desserts including tarts, cakes, and ice cream. Fresh fruits were also present on the buffet table.

Assortment of Japanese sushi and maki

Pork belly strips. Meaty goodness!

After dinner we returned to our bedroom floor—this time, at the balcony of what we established a ‘common room’—and continued the night on local beers and tasty lechon sent by Cebu’s Original Lechon Belly. It was an evening full of hearty laughter, wonderful travel tales, and an intimate conversations about random things in life. We capped off an hour before sunrise the next day.

Penne pasta

And for dessert, here are some slices of chocolate cake

Hungover from last night, we all woke up a little late but still in time for the buffet breakfast, although I’d consider it a festive brunch already. As soon as our breakfast was over, we returned to our rooms and rested until it was time for us to check out.

Having a good time in the infinity pool at the 6th floor

Luxent Hotel allowed us to make use of their infinity pool at the 6th floor even though we already checked out of our rooms. We wanted to save the best for last, so the infinity pool was the ultimate relaxation experience that we could have. We enjoyed the pool so much that we finished after sunset.

The infinity pool of Luxent Hotel

The pool area at night

When our staycation at Luxent Hotel was over, we walked down Tomas Morato and decided to make a quick stop at our go-to fast food chain before we return to our own homes. We wanted to extend our happiness a little longer, so we went to a kiddie place where happiness is the champion…

About Luxent Hotel

Address: 51 Timog Avenue, South Triangle, Quezon City
Phone Number: +63-02-8637777

For booking and reservation, go to Agoda.com or their website.

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I’ll never get tired of coming back to Cebu. It’s one of the few provinces in the Philippines that hold a special place in my heart. I’ve been to Cebu four times already as of this writing, and each visit offered a unique travel experience. Every trip had its own element of surprise.

Just this summer, my friends and I flew to Cebu from Manila to spend the remaining days of the beach season. We wanted to take it easy, so we settled in just one place—Cebu White Sands Resort and Spa at Maribago Beach in Mactan Island.

Facade of Cebu White Sands Resort & Spa as seen from across one of its swimming pools

Our twin room at the Mabuhay Building

Accommodation and Dining

Morning view of the pool from our room

Our twin room at the newly-renovated Mabuhay Building offered an astounding view of Mactan. The bedroom was clean and kempt; its interior just had the right balance of light sheets and dark furniture.

Room service was great. When I phoned the front desk about the defective bedside power outlet, they immediately sent a technician to fix it. The rest of the facilities were good but if they could install a bidet in the toilet, that would be great.

One of my favorite parts of Cebu White Sands was the Room 801 roof deck bar. There you can have a nice view of Maribago Beach and the rest of guiMactan Island.

The place gets livelier at night when the acoustic band starts to play their music while you relish in the bar’s modern aura. They also serve palatable dishes such as Braised Lamb Shank, Tapas Platter, King Henry Grilled Porkchop, and Grilled Tiger Prawns.

Stylish ratan chairs at Room 801 Bar

Aerial view of Maribago Beach from the roof deck of Cebu White Sands Resort & Spa

Pond full of colorful koi fish located outside Anahata Spa

Buffet lunch at Cebu White Sands Resort & Spa

Room 801 Bar during sundown

Here’s a selection of dinner items at Room 801 including Tiger Prawns and Tapas Platter

Island Hopping with Cebu White Sands

Our second day in Mactan was allotted for island hopping with Cebu White Sands Resort and Spa. The tour package covered three locations: the marine sanctuary at Guilotongan, festive lunch at a private islet called Islas Tres Rosas, and a snorkeling spot near Sta. Rosa Island.

The private boat of the resort is spacious it could accommodate a large group of tourists for island hopping. Refreshments such as soft drinks and beer were provided by the resort, and our seafood and meat dishes for lunch were grilled at the back of the boat. It was like a floating house for it even had its own mini toilet near its rear.

Swimming with the fishes at Guilotongan Marine Sanctuary

Enjoying the underwater view at the marine sanctuary

Islas Tres Rosas is a private islet owned by Cebu White Sands Resort and Spa

Our island hopping started off early in the morning, and by that time, dark clouds had already formed over the coast so I thought it would rain the entire day. Thankfully, it lasted for only about two hours, and the rain didn’t ruin the underwater beauty of the marine sanctuary at Guilotongan Island.

After a sumptuous lunch at Islas Tres Rosas we went to our final spot which was a snorkeling haven near Sta. Rosa Island. We stayed there for about an hour and enjoyed its clear blue waters and rich marine life. We returned to the resort at 2 PM.

Grilled meat, fresh seafood, and ripe fruits were among the fare we had for lunch at Islas Tres Rosas

Perhaps the best place to eat dried mangoes is right here at its province of origin: Cebu

Anahata Spa Experience

I absolutely enjoyed our island hopping activity, and because of that, my body got really tired in the afternoon. Upon return to the resort, we took one more dip in the swimming pool before coming back to our rooms to rest until dusk.

An hour nap wasn’t enough to relieve the headache and body pain I had that day. Add up the fact that we only had three hours of sleep the night before, so my mind was like floating in the air. Good thing I was scheduled that evening for a full-body massage at the hotel’s in-house spa called the Anahata Spa.

I loved the Signature Massage (PHP1,800 per person) of Anahata Spa. It was my first spa massage experience, so I would say it relaxed and re-energized my body and soul. Being ticklish, I expected I’d laugh the entire 1 1/2 hours massage session, but the hands of the masseuse were so gentle I almost snoozed. It was a fantastic experience, indeed.

Panoramic view of Malabrigo Beach and parts of Mactan from Cebu White Sands Resort and Spa

More Info About Cebu White Sands

Cebu White Sands is far from downtown Cebu, so if you want to hang out in Cebu City you’d shell out about PHP270 for a one-way taxi tariff.

But hey, if you want to have a peaceful and relaxing staycation, I think you won’t be needing to go to the city anymore. Cebu White Sands Resort can offer you almost everything you need.

For online reservations, book through Agoda or directly at their website.

The post Summer Sojourn at Cebu White Sands Resort and Spa appeared first on kurtzky.

Few years ago, our company had a town hall meeting wherein the organizers served a selection of wine and sticks of cheeses. The whole wine-and-cheese thing was new to me, so I tried it out of curiosity just to test how they’d taste together. It was awful.

But it’s just me for I don’t usually drink wine. I didn’t even know that wine works well with cheese. What I only knew since the beginning was that alcoholic beverages complement with chicharon, sisig, and the like. Pulutan, the Filipino way.

Bottles of Paul Mas Estate Sauvignon Blanc stored in a wine cabinet at Planet Grapes

When my Cebuano friends suggested Planet Grapes at Ayala Center* in Cebu City, I was hesitant to go at first. I thought it would just be another awkward wine moment for me, but when I learned about the unique concept of the restaurant, I gave it a go.

Planet Grapes’ tagline is Wine Without The Drama. The main idea is to add a twist to the traditional way of drinking wine. Instead of focusing solely on the aroma and flavor of wine, they established something relatable to everyone. They serve it with food—Filipino street food.

Planet Grapes uses Enomatic wine dispensers

Planet Grapes uses modern technology in dispensing wine. They have a re-loadable Enomatic card (PHP500 minimum credit) which works specifically for Enomatic wine dispensers. All you have to do is insert your card into the corresponding slot above your wine of choice, pick the shot size, and wait for the machine to fill your wine glass.

Antipasto Platter is composed of lyoner, Parma ham, salami, blue cheese, Camembert, olives, dried apricots and bread sticks

And so the wine pairing began. They let us try red and white wine at Planet Grapes. The store manager told us that red wine matches perfectly with meat dishes, while white wine is ideal for sweet treats such as the usual Filipino desserts.

To test the red wine we ordered Antipasto Platter (PHP450), PG Super Sisig (PHP210), Chorizo de Cebu (PHP80), and Chicken Isaw (PHP65). To partner with white wine we had Turon Trilogy (PHP165) and Creme Brulee Sampler (PHP180).

PG Super Sisig, a sizzling dish made from ground pig’s head, topped with fresh egg

First dish we feasted upon was the Antipasto Platter, which was a set of cheeses and thin slices of Italian meat. It was composed of lyoner (Bologna), Parma ham, salami, blue cheese, Camembert, olives, dried apricots and bread sticks. They’ve mentioned something about acidity, texture and bitterness, but I didn’t mind. I just wanted to them all. No drama, right?

Next were the common Filipino party appetizers. The red wine added kick to the familiar taste of sisig, isaw and chorizo. Although I could still distinguish the inevitable sourness of the wine, it being paired with my favorite local street grub was a beautiful contrast of flavors in my mouth. The rich, umami goodness of the meat dishes and the tangy, sharp characteristics of the red wine were like a collision of two equally opposing forces, just perfectly done.

Chicken isaw (chicken intestines) is perfect for red wine

As for the Muscat white wine, it was milder and sweeter than the red wine. There’s a hint of spirit in it so it’s much easier to consume and it goes well with desserts.

Planet Grapes also has a distinct variation of turon which they coined Turon Trilogy. It is the most memorable turon experience I ever had so far. There’s a right amount of sweetness in the dish; it’s delicious. About the Creme Brulee Sampler, my personal favorite was the custard base.

Turon Trilogy, a Filipino dessert made of thinly sliced bananas and ube drizzled with langka caramel

Creme Brulee Sampler is made of rich durian, banana and plain custard base, topped with hard caramel

Our dinner at Planet Grapes was an eye-opener for me. Planet Grapes is certainly the perfect place to have drama-less wine pairing sessions. The staff of the store is always ready to assist and educate its guests on how to put together wine and food. If you want to gain more knowledge about wine pairing, Planet Grapes should be on your go-to list.

Neat display of wine glasses hanging from a metal rack

*Planet Grapes is located at Level 4 New Wing, Ayala Center Cebu. Other Planet Grapes branches are at McKinley Hill Taguig, EDSA Shangri-La Mall Mandaluyong, and River Park Muntinlupa.

The post No drama at Planet Grapes, just great wine and food appeared first on kurtzky.

My hands were fidgeting as we were stuck in the flooded street of Pansol, Laguna on a cloudy Saturday afternoon. Heavy traffic. I was worried that I might miss the graduation ceremony of my cousin in Los Baños and at the same time not make it to Resorts World early on that evening. As soon as we arrived at the program venue, I, being the family’s last and only choice of photographer, hurriedly took a couple of portraits and group shots then scuttled away even before the graduation march started. I was rushing for Marriott Hotel Manila.

Surprisingly it took me only one hour to commute from Laguna to Newport City, thanks to our clutter-free skyway. Upon entry at Marriott Manila, I was already mesmerized by the grandeur of the best hotel in the metro. Here’s why.

The front desk at Marriott Hotel Manila

Futuristic Front Desk and Lobby Lounge

My friends had already checked in a few hours earlier than me; I was the last person to arrive at Marriott. I went through the hotel’s security procedure, swung my bag onto my back, and strode towards its futuristic lobby. Having smelled the expensive scent that was lingering in the air, I knew the hotel was first class.

I headed to the concierge for check-in. Just behind me was the trendy lobby lounge where guests find instant comfort. I was immediately assisted by the receptionist on duty. She input my name into the system and I was handed my elevator access card and room pass. The whole check-in process was a breeze.

Lobby lounge of Marriott Manila

The trendy bar at the lobby lounge

What’s in the bedroom?

Being last to arrive meant the sheets were already crumpled and personal belongings were all over the place. Having said that, I didn’t have a decent photo of our bedroom for I didn’t want to malign the five star-ness of Marriott. Haha!

But seriously, we had a spacious room, an expansive bathroom, and an amazing view of the Makati and Taguig skylines. We also had fast Wi-Fi connection and access to cable TV. More importantly, what sets Marriott apart from the rest of the pack is that it gives its guest flight advisory for those who have flights to catch. Just simply look at the message that would flash on your TV screen!

Airline advisory as it appears on our TV screen

Makati skyline as seen from our room

Dining at Marriott Cafe

Buffet at Marriott Cafe literally translates to feast. Fiesta. I was able to try both its dinner and breakfast buffet, and I should say that the dining experience was truly overwhelming.

The dinner buffet offered a wide selection of fresh seafood and meat, a lavish array of international dishes, and an overflow of favorite dessert treats. The breakfast buffet offered the same degree of choices but a slightly different touch to suit the morning mood.

Seafood feast in our buffet dinner at Marriott Cafe

This is what our table looked like during the breakfast buffet

Jacuzzi and Locker Room

We were granted access to the jacuzzi and shower areas even after we checked out of our hotel room. Male and female have separate rooms–but with the same features–just to give guests a sense of privacy and security. A hotel staff helped us with handling our stuff.

Our bags and personal items were put in the locker while we enjoy these amenities located at the second floor of the hotel near the spa area. This huge room was equipped with a variety of toiletries as well as a clean set of beach towels and flip flops. There’s also a black door that leads to the outdoor swimming pool which could be shared by both sexes.

Jacuzzi at the second floor

Array of lockers adjacent to the jacuzzi and shower area

Lovely Swimming Pool

My friends and I love to take a swim. Each time we stay at a hotel we make sure to spend an hour or two at its swimming pool, making silly underwater videos and a lot of catching up on many random things. As expected, we found our happy place at Marriott Hotel.

The pool was fringed with palm trees and cushioned loungers. On the other side of it was a bar with cocktail drinks and other form of refreshments. It’s an outdoor pool exposed to all kinds of weather: in our case, it was drizzling, so we absolutely had fun skinny-dipping under the July sky.

The classy swimming pool of Marriot Hotel Manila

Dipping in the pool with traveler friends

First class experience at the Executive Lounge

Our Marriott Hotel staycation ended on a high note: we spent the rest of the afternoon at the Executive Lounge. Normally, it is patronized by Elite members, but even non-nembers can have access to it through room upgrade or add-on (PHP3,000/pax or PHP4,000/2 pax, variable amount). Breakfast access for PHP1,000, cocktails for PHP1,500, and an all-day acess for PHP750.

At the Executive Lounge you can stay while you wait for your flight, watch a football match, read the daily newspaper, or even simply lazy around. Here you get your private space at an optimum quality.

Executive lounge

Drinks, anyone?

More about Marriott Hotel

Marriott Manila is just a stone’s throw away from Newport Mall. We watched a musical play at Newport Performing Arts Theater and getting there was efficient. Entertainment and nightlife were within our reach. The property is also just across NAIA Terminal 3, so guests can easily get there at their most convenient time.

The post Why Marriott Manila is the best luxury hotel in the metro appeared first on kurtzky.

No matter how physically tired a person is, he will surely feel better once he’s presented with a feast of delicious Filipino food. Hukad Golden Cowrie in Cebu City did the trick for me.

Arriving at the doorstep of a roadside Filipino restaurant in Lahug, we were greeted by a young lady in her native-inspired uniform dress. She led us the way past a throng of evening diners into a private room at the corner of the warm-lit resto. As soon as we attached ourselves into our chairs, we started listing our orders for dinner.

Exterior of Hukad Golden Cowrie in Lahug, Cebu City

The restaurant’s name is derived from two different sources. Hukad is a Bisaya word which means ‘to scoop out with a ladle’, while Golden Cowrie is from a rare sea shell of the same name that is a member of top of the line family of shells. Originally, the restaurant was more of a beach resto ambiance, but as the time went by it evolved into a cozy, home-like establishment as it is today.

It’s always a feast at Golden Cowrie Native Restaurant

Hukad Golden Cowrie lives by its motif—a native Filipino restaurant. The house emanates an atmosphere of a traditional Filipino home: warm lighting, classic paintings, wooden furniture, and simple decorations. The highlight of it all, the Filipino fare being offered at Golden Cowrie ranges from delectable appetizers such as sisig and local ngohiong, to familiar entree dishes such as crispy pata and kare-kare, to all-time favorite desserts halo-halo and turon. No wonder it’s always a feast at Golden Cowrie.

A waiter prepared our table and placed flat, rectangular plates in front of everyone. The odd-looking plates were then sheeted with charred banana leaves, silver utensils set on the side. A lady emerged from the kitchen, hoisted with a large tub of rice. Gripping a big ladle in her hand, she scooped steamy rice out of her tub and put them onto our banana-sealed platters.

Baked Scallops (PHP147)

Ngohiong (PHP72)

Sisig (PHP169)

In just a short waiting time our orders had finally arrived. First they served the appetizers: fried tuna fingers, ngohiong (my ultimate fave), and baked oysters. I must say that the baked oyster platter at Golden Cowrie is to die for. It was succulent!

Then came the main dishes: humba (it’s pretty unique), kare-kare, sinigang na tanigue, and crispy pata. I couldn’t exactly recall how fast we devoured all of these dishes, but I’m certain that it was a fun, lively food fight.

Crispy Pata (PHP435)

Sinigang na Tangigue (PHP210)

Kare-Kare (PHP275)

Humba (PHP169)

Tropical Brulee (PHP89)

Ube Crisp Ala Mode (PHP99)

Dining at Golden Cowrie filled our stomachs to the brim. It was indeed a delightful feast comparable to that of a family meal at home. It felt like once you get attached to your seat, you can’t stop from having another cup of rice. Hukad some more, that’s how they say it!

Hukad Golden Cowrie Native Restaurant is located along Salinas Drive, Lahug, Cebu City, Philippines.

The post Always a Feast at Hukad Golden Cowrie, Cebu City appeared first on kurtzky.

The Last Frontier of the Philippines, Palawan remains the most sought destination among local and foreign travelers. From possessing a notable subterranean river and complex cave systems, to showcasing rich marine life and bucolic natural landscapes, Palawan is truly a tourism haven.

Take for example the laid-back village of Port Barton on the northwestern town of San Vicente. Once a remote place hardly accessible by inland travelers, Port Barton is now paving its way to becoming a marketable exotic destination in Palawan. This place has so much rawness in it, and only a handful could appreciate this as of yet.

On my way to aplaya (beachfront), passing beneath Port Barton Tourism Assistance Center

Island Hopping in Port Barton

On my second day in Port Barton I was set to do an island tour. Since it was the low season, I was given cheaper rates by one of the village’s boatmen, Kuya Junjun Lim (+639066336629). Instead of the regular rate of PHP700/pax for island hopping Tour A package which includes Twin Reef, Wide Reef, Exotic Island, and German Island, Kuya Junjun offered me PHP500 for a whole day activity including lunch. It was good deal, so I said okay. We met at the aplaya (waterfront).

Supposedly we’re five in the group, but other guests had backed out on the same day, leaving only three of us: an Australian guy, a French lady, and me, a Filipino. Despite being short in number, we still pushed through albeit we left the coast later than the agreed departure.

It’s just the three of us in the boat!

Twin Reef

First thing on our itinerary was Twin Reef. We reached this marine sanctuary 30 minutes after we departed mainland Port Barton. The weather was perfect but we still had to put on sunscreen to prevent burns, especially them foreigner companions.

We anchored our boat right in the middle of the sea. Our two boatmen, Kuya Junjun and Kuya Alberto, gave us the go-signal to jump into the ocean. Without hesitation I grabbed my underwater camera and plunged into the greenish water of Twin Reef. I almost touched the bottom of the sea.

The current was strong that I had to stay close to our boat. While the Australian guy and French woman frolic beneath the surface away from us, I, on the other hand, would grip the outrigger so as to sustain my dive attempts. I just couldn’t go down the seabed for two reasons: (1) I have a great fear of the ocean especially when no one else is around, and (2) I can’t hold my breath longer as I easily run out of oxygen. Why I did this island thing was purely just for fun.

Boats anchored at Twin Reef

Wide Reef

Our boat drove for only less than a mile to reach our next destination: Wide Reef. Just like Twin Reef, this place is known for its vibrant underwater life. Snorkeling and freediving are what tourists go for here.

Again, our boat was anchored by Kuya Junjun, and we were given time to explore the vast sea. The waters at Wide Reef looked darker—a sign that it is deeper than Twin Reef. About two boats were docked when we arrived so we shared the site with a handful of other tourists.

Glimpse of abundant marine life at Wide Reef

With just a pair of goggles and a brave heart, I jumped into the sea and swam within our boat’s reach. The current was still strong and the succession of small waves would let me swallow seawater, having me decide to return to our boat to catch my breath.

A foreign lady from another boat, diving towards the corals at Wide Reef

On my second jump I already wore an orange vest and a snorkeling mask to allow me stay afloat for a while. With these gear on me I braved the sea and left the boat. That’s when I started to appreciate the wonderful marine life at the reef. It was much easier this way, I thought. So I kicked further, farther away from the boat.

Meet Kuya Junjun, our kind and patient boatman

I bumped into two foreigners from other boat, then I continued swimming. Then I realized I was the only person left at sea—all but our boat had departed and my two companions had already returned to our boat. That’s when my fear of the ocean struck, so I thrust my feet in full effort to make it to the boat as fast as I can. Seriously, I was in full panic that time.

Sitting on the beam of the boat, catching my breath

Exotic Island

We didn’t notice that we had already consumed the first half of the day. Kuya Junjun maneuvered the boat to Exotic Island where we would have our lunch. We passed by German Island—Kuya Junjun said we’d stay there after lunch—and headed towards the direction of Exotic Island.

Quick look of German Island on our way to Exotic Island

Exotic Island is an interesting chunk of forested land surrounded by powdery white sand shores. Its turquoise water was enticing for a swim; its lush jungle was inviting for a trek. Tall trees dotted the beachfront, their shade offered shelter to visitors.

Noted!

Kuya Junjun and his boat partner Kuya Alberto prepared our food for lunch. While waiting for the meal to be cooked, me and my foreign companions took a swim in the clear water of Exotic Island.

#GoThrow at Exotic Island

Our lunch consisted of two freshly grilled fish, steamed rice, salad made of cucumber and tomatoes, and pieces of ripe bananas. Food was perfect, location was perfect, everything was perfect that time. Our boatmen didn’t join in our food feast—we invited them to eat with us—so us three gorged the food until we’re full.

Lunch time

And of course, it’s siesta time after lunch. I was feeling sleepy so I lay down on the sand and savored the island life.

My French companion doing an underwater handstand

German Island

This place is where the sea turtles (pawikan) thrive. Our boatmen brought us to German Island an hour after lunch and gave us ample time to find those timid sea creatures.

We didn’t dock straight at German Island. Kuya Junjun anchored the boat in the sea, far from the shoreline of the island. I would call ourselves lucky for we were the only boat in the area, so there’s a greater chance for us to see those turtles swimming in their habitat.

The highlight of our tour – meeting this enormous sea turtle at German Island

The area was vast that we didn’t know where to find the turtles. We scattered around and widened our search. The blurry water made it harder to see what’s beneath the surface, but still we continued looking underwater.

Finally Kuya Junjun shouted and signaled that he already found one. We all headed to his direction, very excited to meet the animal. And there it was, munching on some sea grass, flapping its arms as it moved to another spot. It was surreal.

Made an effort to climb that coconut tree

Capping off the afternoon at German Island, sitting on one of its hammocks overlooking the ocean, I found the perfect vacation I’ve been looking for. It’s just me and the sea. Quiet. Far from the pandemonium of urban jungle.

Relaxing at German Island until the end of our island tour

And when I couldn’t get over with the turtle I decided to return to the sea. I borrowed snorkeling mask and fins from my French companion and paddled in the ocean—in search again of bizarre happiness that filled my heart earlier that afternoon…

The post Dear travelers, I hope you fall in love with Port Barton appeared first on kurtzky.

Work overseas and earn higher salary, they said. Life is better out there you could save for the future, they said.

Sure. I’m convinced. After all, I’ve wanted to become an overseas Filipino worker. And I’ve always thought that my travel experiences would make it easier for me to thrive in a new country.

Or maybe the opposite.

1. Because I’m not coming home soon

I’m currently based in Singapore. Okay, I know some would react, “Sus, ang lapit lang pala!” Distance is relatively not a biggie, but it’s also not like going from Pasay to Quiapo in a snap.

Before moving here, I had a casual talk with my grandmother, and I told her I won’t be too far away. In fact, they can easily contact me through Facebook or Skype at any time of the day. I even told her this isn’t the first time I’m leaving home.

But she said that all my past trips only lasted for days. This one would take months, or even years, before I could return for a longer stay.

The candid words pricked me. In the heart.

2. Because work is a serious game, seriously

Landing a job in Singapore is tough. It’s the same as in other countries. From series of technical reviews and failed job interviews, to stringent work pass application and preparation for relocation, it took me many months of struggle to finally get here.

When I arrived in the Little Red Dot, I’m physically, mentally, and emotionally prepared. I readied for the possibilities of a sudden breakdown or the likelihood of multi-culture trauma. A melting pot of different heritage means I’m going to deal with a lot of people that’s accustomed to work practices different than I do.

There even came a point at work that I pitied myself for having an average level of expertise because the management’s expectation was so high I almost exploded due to pressure.

Finding entertainment, not Nemo

3. Because culture shock is part of the job

“You need to practice self-discipline”, I was told by my trainer who’s of another nationality during my first week on the job after I mistook to heed his instructions. He was obviously mad at me. Of course my initial defense on my mind was like, “Sorry na po, baguhan lang po kasi”.

If in my previous organizations new joiners often relax for a week or two for training (read: petiks period), here the game is different. Majority of employers expect new hires to catch up quickly. Agad-agad. The job is demanding it pushes you to your limits.

But then, at the end of the day, when you’ve achieved your goals it feels just as good as a pocketful of sunshine.

4. Because it’s like what Sarah G said, “ikot-ikot lang”

I live in a three-bedroom HDB flat leased by eight Filipino professionals including myself. I share a common room with two other people. Six of us use just one toilet.

Every morning I’d wake up at 7:15 in time for shower (I’m fourth in the queue). When I have the enthusiasm to cook, I’d cook my own breakfast. Then I’d change to my office attire and walk to the bus stop that’s only 200 meters away. In about 10 minutes I’d reach the office.

It’s a fast-moving environment I wouldn’t notice we’re at the end of our shift already. When I don’t render overtime I’d walk back home for about 20 minutes (this saves me 79 cents) then I’d prepare for dinner, sit in my bed, do the laundry, then poof, it’s time to hit the sack again.

“Paikot-ikot lang ang buhay natin dito”, my roommate even joked. Somehow sad, but it’s true.

5. Because refer to #1, you’d always think of your family

I can now understand how most of our OFWs feel. You strive at work for a month, you remit a portion of your salary to your loved ones, and you’d sigh a great relief once your beneficiary acknowledges your padala. It also comes naturally to think once in a while of cutting down expenses by skipping a meal or walking home to save a penny. I’m not this stingy when I was still working in the Philippines.

Just the plain idea of not having to sit with your family for dinner is already a trigger to cry a river. I haven’t reached this level of loneliness yet, but what I’m saying is, to be far from home in exchange for a greater good is like undergoing a tattoo. It hurts in the process but eventually you’ll get a desirable outcome, oftentimes beyond your expectation, that’ll surely last a long time.

To sum all these things up, I’d say that my shell has finally cracked open – that I no longer live in my comfort zone. I must embrace the reality that this new world I’m living in no longer rotates around the kid I used to be. I must embrace adulthood. I must continue to grow as a person.

At this point, there’s no turning back. Not yet. Even if Manila is just 1476 nautical miles away.

The post Shell Cracked Open: How It Feels To Be An OFW appeared first on kurtzky.

In the world of e-commerce, where shopping is just a click away, an interesting phenomenon exists – cart abandonment. It’s a familiar scenario for many online shoppers: browsing through a website, adding items to your cart with intent, and then suddenly, life happens, and you forget to complete the purchase. This is where the art of freelancing in cart abandonment email campaigns comes into play, offering a second chance to recapture the customer’s attention and encourage them to complete their purchase. These strategic email campaigns serve as a friendly nudge, reminding shoppers of the items they left behind and providing an opportunity to finalize the sale. Freelancers specializing in this craft understand the psychology behind cart abandonment and employ creative strategies to re-engage customers effectively.

Cart abandonment email campaigns are a powerful tool in the freelancer’s arsenal, designed to entice customers back into the purchasing funnel. The key lies in understanding the consumer’s mindset and crafting messages that resonate. Imagine a busy individual who, amidst a hectic schedule, takes the time to meticulously select products but gets distracted before checkout. A well-timed email, perhaps with a personalized touch, could remind them of their initial interest and even offer a small incentive to seal the deal. Freelancers skilled in this field know how to strike a balance between subtlety and persuasiveness, ensuring the message doesn’t come across as intrusive but rather as a helpful reminder. They create a sense of urgency, highlighting the benefits of completing the purchase while also addressing any potential concerns or obstacles that may have caused the initial hesitation.

The success of these campaigns often hinges on the ability to capture the consumer’s attention within a crowded inbox. Freelancers employ various techniques, such as eye-catching subject lines, personalized product recommendations, or dynamic content reflecting the customer’s preferences. By leveraging their creativity and analytical skills, they optimize email content, timing, and frequency to maximize the chances of conversion. Moreover, these campaigns are not just about recovery but also about building a relationship with the customer. Adding value through product recommendations, discounts, or helpful tips demonstrates a commitment to customer satisfaction and increases the likelihood of repeat purchases. In an era where consumer attention is fragmented, freelancing in cart abandonment email campaigns provides a focused and personalized approach to converting potential sales into successful transactions.

Working as a freelancer in the realm of online wholesale store development can be an exciting and rewarding career path. The global e-commerce boom has created a thriving market for talented developers and designers who can create and enhance the digital platforms that power online businesses. Online wholesale stores, in particular, present unique opportunities and challenges, making them an interesting niche in the e-commerce space. Wholesale e-commerce focuses on selling products in bulk to retailers, other professionals, or businesses rather than direct-to-consumer sales. This business model requires specialized website development to cater to the needs of wholesale buyers.

The process of developing an online wholesale store encompasses various stages. It begins with understanding the client’s business model and target audience. Freelancers in this field must excel in creating user-friendly interfaces that cater to B2B clients who often purchase in larger quantities and have different requirements than retail customers. The website should efficiently display products, provide easy navigation for bulk orders, and offer tailored features such as custom pricing, tax exemptions, and quick reordering options. This involves substantial planning and wireframing to ensure the site’s functionality aligns perfectly with the needs of wholesale buyers. Following this, the development phase brings the design to life by coding the website’s front-end and back-end, integrating payment gateways, and implementing inventory management systems.

One of the critical aspects of freelancing in this niche is staying abreast of the latest trends and technologies. E-commerce platforms are evolving rapidly, with new features and functionalities being introduced regularly. Therefore, developers must continually update their skills and knowledge to remain competitive in the market. For instance, integrating AI-powered search options, implementing AR/VR for product visualization, and optimizing sites for voice search are some of the cutting-edge trends shaping the industry. Moreover, freelancers should be adept at search engine optimization (SEO) to ensure the online stores they develop are discoverable and rank highly in search engine results, which is crucial for driving organic traffic and sales. Effective SEO strategies, combined with exceptional development skills, can significantly contribute to the success of the freelance developer and their clients’ businesses.

Freelancing in the e-commerce industry is an exciting prospect, offering the freedom of self-employment and the potential for lucrative earnings. However, with numerous e-commerce niches to choose from, selecting the right one can be a daunting task for aspiring freelancers. This decision is crucial as it sets the foundation for your freelancing journey, impacting your success, job satisfaction, and long-term career prospects. So, how exactly does one navigate the vast e-commerce landscape and choose the right niche? Let me guide you through some essential considerations.

Firstly, it’s essential to understand that the e-commerce industry is incredibly diverse. From fashion and beauty to electronics and home decor, each niche has its unique dynamics, trends, and customer demographics. The key is to identify an area that aligns with your interests and strengths. For instance, if you have a passion for fashion and a keen eye for style, fashion e-commerce could be your calling. This passion will keep you motivated, making the often demanding freelancing lifestyle more enjoyable. Perhaps you have a background in marketing and a fascination with the latest tech gadgets. In that case, you might find success in technology e-commerce, offering marketing and content services to tech startups and established brands. The goal is to find that sweet spot where your skills and interests merge, creating a compelling offering for potential clients.

When considering different e-commerce niches, it’s beneficial to research market demand and competition. Some niches might be oversaturated, making it challenging for new freelancers to break in. Others may have high demand but also high barriers to entry due to specialized knowledge requirements. For instance, the organic beauty market is booming, but to succeed in this niche, you’d need to have or develop expertise in organic certifications, ingredient sourcing, and the latest trends in the green beauty movement. On the other hand, niches like pet supplies or maternity wear might offer more accessible entry points but may also have more limited growth potential. The key is to find a balance between market demand, your interest and expertise, and the competition you can reasonably expect to face.

Working as a freelancer in the e-commerce industry has become increasingly popular, especially in specialized roles such as a Dropshipping Niche Market Analyst. This role might seem niche, but it plays a crucial role in the success of many online businesses. Dropshipping, a retail fulfillment method, allows entrepreneurs to sell products without maintaining inventory, and this is where the Niche Market Analyst comes into play. These analysts are the behind-the-scenes heroes who ensure that dropshipping businesses thrive in the competitive e-commerce landscape.

As a Dropshipping Niche Market Analyst, your primary responsibility is to conduct thorough market research and identify profitable product niches. This involves analyzing market trends, studying consumer behavior, and identifying products with high-profit margins and low competition. By delving deep into the vast world of online retail, you become the navigator, guiding businesses towards the most promising products to sell. The role requires a keen eye for detail, the ability to interpret complex market data, and the creativity to spot emerging trends. You’ll be tasked with finding hidden gems in the e-commerce marketplace that can be the foundation of successful dropshipping ventures. Every time you discover a niche market with untapped potential, you help entrepreneurs unlock new revenue streams, making your role both challenging and rewarding.

To excel in this field, one must possess exceptional analytical skills, a deep understanding of the e-commerce industry, and the ability to stay updated with the latest market trends and consumer preferences. You’ll be responsible for creating detailed market reports, advising clients on the best products to dropship, and even suggesting strategies to optimize their online stores for these products. The work is dynamic and ever-evolving, requiring a proactive approach to stay ahead of the competition. Freelancing in this role offers the freedom to work with various clients, each with unique business needs, allowing you to continuously expand your expertise in different market sectors. The demand for skilled analysts in the dropshipping niche is growing, making it an exciting and lucrative career path for those who enjoy the thrill of uncovering market secrets and turning them into successful business opportunities.

Working remotely has become a new normal for many, and freelancing offers a unique opportunity for those seeking flexibility in their careers. If you have a keen eye for organization and a knack for optimizing product availability, considering a career as a remote product inventory planner could be an exciting path. This role is crucial for businesses, ensuring a seamless customer experience by maintaining optimal stock levels and preventing shortages or excess inventory. As a remote product inventory planner, your days will be filled with strategic planning and problem-solving, making it an engaging and dynamic career choice.

In this freelance role, you’ll manage the inventory levels of various products, ensuring they are aligned with market demand and business goals. A typical day may involve forecasting demand, analyzing sales trends, and optimizing inventory levels across different channels and locations. For instance, you might work with a retail company, using historical sales data to predict seasonal trends and adjusting inventory accordingly to meet increased demand during holiday sales. Effective inventory management is a delicate balance, and your expertise will contribute to cost reduction, cash flow improvement, and enhanced customer satisfaction. Achieving this balance requires a strategic mindset and the ability to interpret data, making each day a stimulating challenge.
In the digital age, utilizing software and tools is essential for efficient inventory management. As a remote worker, you’ll have access to cloud-based systems, allowing real-time collaboration with teams across different locations. These systems enable you to monitor stock levels, track shipments, and generate reports to make informed decisions. For instance, you could use inventory management software to automate stock reordering when levels fall below a certain threshold, ensuring products are always available without overstocking. Embracing these technologies not only streamlines your workflow but also positions you as a modern, tech-savvy professional in the freelancing world. The role of a remote product inventory planner is both challenging and rewarding, offering the freedom of freelancing and the satisfaction of being an integral part of a company’s success.

Becoming a successful freelance remote product inventory planner requires a unique skill set. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and the ability to interpret data are essential traits. Additionally, strong communication skills are vital for collaborating with remote teams and understanding client needs. Building a network of clients can be facilitated through online freelancing platforms, professional networking websites, and industry-specific forums. Offering competitive pricing, showcasing your expertise, and providing excellent customer service are key to attracting and retaining clients. Starting in this field may seem daunting, but with the right skills, a proactive approach to networking, and a commitment to delivering quality work, you can establish a thriving freelance career. The world of remote work is full of opportunities, and the role of a product inventory planner can be both professionally fulfilling and personally satisfying.

Working as a freelancer can open up a unique avenue for those looking to enter the exciting world of cart abandonment email campaigns. This specialized field, while seemingly niche, presents a myriad of opportunities for creative and strategic thinkers alike. For those unfamiliar, cart abandonment refers to the phenomenon where online shoppers add items to their virtual carts but leave the website without completing the purchase. It’s like window shopping in the digital era, but with a twist! Email campaigns targeting these potential customers are a strategic attempt to nudge them back towards completing their purchase. Freelancers play a pivotal role in this process.

As a freelancer, your role in this intricate process can vary. You might be crafting compelling copy for these emails, strategically designing them to resonate with the target audience. Imagine yourself as a storyteller, crafting narratives that remind shoppers of the products they left behind. Your words can paint a vivid picture of the benefits and features, reigniting the initial spark of interest. But it’s not just about creative writing. Freelancers can also specialize in analyzing and interpreting data related to these campaigns. By diving into the numbers, you can identify patterns, determine what works and what doesn’t, and ultimately refine the strategy to boost conversion rates. This technical aspect requires a keen eye for detail and a mind that thrives on optimizing processes.

The beauty of freelancing in this field is the freedom to choose your niche. You might decide to focus on specific industries, such as fashion, technology, or health and wellness. Each industry has its own unique tone and approach to marketing, allowing you to develop specialized skills. Alternatively, you could become a master of email marketing platforms, understanding the intricacies of Mailchimp, Klaviyo, or Constant Contact. Freelancing in cart abandonment email campaigns offers the flexibility to create your path, whether it’s through creative writing, data analysis, or platform expertise. With the rise of e-commerce, the demand for such services is only set to grow, making it a rewarding and potentially lucrative career choice for those willing to dive into the world of online consumer behavior.

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Freelancing has revolutionized the way we work, offering individuals the flexibility to choose their projects and clients. This freedom is particularly evident in the realm of online flash sale campaign strategy, where freelancers play a pivotal role in crafting engaging marketing plans. With the rise of e-commerce and the constant evolution of digital marketing, businesses are increasingly turning to freelancers for their expertise in capturing the attention of online shoppers during time-sensitive sales events. Online flash sales have become a popular strategy for e-commerce businesses to drive sales and engage customers. These short-duration sales events create a sense of urgency and excitement, enticing shoppers to take advantage of limited-time deals. However, executing a successful flash sale campaign requires a well-thought-out strategy, and this is where freelancers step in to make a significant impact. Freelance marketing strategists bring a unique skill set to the table, combining creativity, digital savvy, and a deep understanding of consumer behavior. They are adept at crafting compelling narratives that resonate with target audiences, creating a sense of FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) that is crucial for the success of flash sales. These professionals understand the intricacies of various online platforms and can tailor campaigns to maximize reach and engagement.

In the fast-paced world of online sales, freelancers offer businesses the agility they need to adapt and thrive. Companies can easily scale up or down their marketing efforts by collaborating with freelance strategy consultants. This flexibility is invaluable when preparing for flash sales, as it allows businesses to quickly assemble a dedicated team with the specific skills required for each campaign. Moreover, freelancers often bring a fresh perspective to the table, offering innovative ideas and approaches that can set a flash sale campaign apart from the competition. They are well-versed in the latest trends and techniques, ensuring that the campaign leverages the most effective tools and platforms to reach and convert potential customers. From social media influencers to email marketing experts, copywriters to graphic designers, freelancers form a diverse and talented pool that can be tapped into for creating a comprehensive and captivating flash sale experience.

The rise of freelancing platforms has also made it easier for businesses to find and connect with specialized talent. These platforms provide a virtual marketplace where companies can post their project requirements and freelancers can showcase their skills and portfolios. This accessibility enables businesses to access a global talent pool, ensuring they can find the perfect freelancer for their online flash sale campaign. Whether it’s a graphic designer creating visually appealing banners or a digital marketer optimizing ad campaigns, freelancers can seamlessly integrate their expertise into a cohesive strategy. As the e-commerce landscape continues to evolve, freelancing in online flash sale campaign strategy will remain a vital component of successful digital sales initiatives, offering businesses the flexibility and expertise needed to thrive in a highly competitive online marketplace. By leveraging the skills of freelancers, companies can create captivating flash sales that drive traffic, boost sales, and foster long-term customer loyalty.

# Freelancing in Seasonal Sales Campaign Development: Unlocking Success

The world of seasonal sales is a bustling arena, where businesses aim to capture the attention of eager shoppers and boost their revenue during specific times of the year. In this fast-paced environment, the role of freelancers in developing seasonal sales campaigns has become increasingly prominent. Freelancers bring a unique set of skills and flexibility to the table, making them invaluable assets for companies seeking to create effective and timely marketing strategies. From crafting compelling copy to designing eye-catching visuals, freelancers are at the forefront of driving sales and creating memorable brand experiences during these pivotal moments.

One of the key advantages of hiring freelancers for seasonal sales campaign development is their ability to provide specialized expertise. These professionals often possess a deep understanding of the latest trends and strategies tailored to specific industries and target audiences. For instance, a freelance copywriter can craft engaging product descriptions for an online fashion store’s summer sale, using language that resonates with trendy and style-conscious customers. Similarly, a freelance graphic designer can create visually stunning email templates for a winter holiday campaign, ensuring the brand stands out in a crowded inbox. By leveraging freelancers’ specialized skills, businesses can create high-impact campaigns that effectively reach and convert their target market. Moreover, freelancers offer the agility needed to adapt quickly to changing market dynamics and consumer behaviors, ensuring that seasonal campaigns remain relevant and successful.

Seasonal sales campaigns are often time-bound, requiring swift execution to maximize their impact. Freelancers excel in these situations as they can hit the ground running and deliver high-quality work within tight deadlines. Their independent nature allows them to dedicate focused attention to individual projects without the distractions of a traditional office environment. This efficiency is especially valuable when multiple campaigns are running concurrently, as freelancers can seamlessly manage and contribute to each project’s unique requirements. Additionally, freelancers provide a cost-effective solution for businesses, as they can be hired on a project-by-project basis, eliminating the need for long-term commitments and overhead costs associated with full-time employees. This flexibility enables companies to optimize their resources and achieve better returns on investment during seasonal sales periods. In essence, the collaboration between businesses and freelancers in seasonal sales campaign development is a powerful strategy, offering expertise, agility, and efficiency to drive exceptional results.