Manila to Bataan Ferry Route and Schedule for 2024

Looking for a faster way to get from Manila to Bataan or Bataan to Manila without the long land travel? The Manila to Bataan ferry finally resumed operations starting November 15, 2023 with promo fares at for P499 for one-way tickets.

You can now travel faster to Bataan via 1Bataan Integrated Transport System, a ferry service that connects Metro Manila to the province of Bataan in Central Luzon by sea. Sea travel will take less than two hours, cutting travel time from land trips, which can take from 3 to 5 hours.

Continue reading “Manila to Bataan Ferry Route and Schedule for 2024”

Japan 2023: Top cultural landmarks and experiences in Kyoto

Kyoto, one of the oldest municipalities in Japan, is located just 30 minutes away by rapid train from Osaka. Considered the cultural capital of Japan, Kyoto is a must-visit for first-timers traveling to Osaka. Kyoto is home to temples, shrines, palaces, and gardens, some of which have been designated collectively as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. 

Continue reading “Japan 2023: Top cultural landmarks and experiences in Kyoto”

South Korea: Classic Seoul highlights for first-time visitors

After three years of feeling trapped in separate households during the pandemic, my family and I finally got a chance to travel to Seoul, South Korea. Blame it on the popularity of K-dramas we binged on during the lockdown, and our frequent dining out in samgyupsal restaurants in the metro, but everyone was eager to experience Seoul for themselves and spend quality time together.

Continue reading “South Korea: Classic Seoul highlights for first-time visitors”

7 new things to do in Nuvali, Laguna (2023)

While we’ve biked around some bike trails and attended a few sporting events and fun runs over the years, it’s been a while since I’ve revisited Nuvali in Laguna. Nuvali is a popular destination for day trips and as a stopover on the way to Tagaytay for dining and shopping for those based in the south of the metro. 

Continue reading “7 new things to do in Nuvali, Laguna (2023)”

5 cozy craft beer spots in Baguio City

The mere mention of the City of Pines immediately brings to mind images of hot chocolate, brewed coffee, ube jam, strawberry taho, and a lot of other iconic eats. Baguio City is an amazing destination for foodies, with a sheer variety of artistic homegrown restaurants to choose from serving all types of cuisine. In the past few years, Baguio has become a destination for beer lovers as well.

Continue reading “5 cozy craft beer spots in Baguio City”

Travel Guide: Abra (2023)

NOTE: This travel guide was originally written in December 2016 and updated in September 2023.

When you think of tourist destinations in the Philippines, Abra is not often at the top of most traveler’s bucket lists. In fact, it remains one of the least visited provinces in the country. For outsiders, there’s still an air of mystery surrounding the place.

Continue reading “Travel Guide: Abra (2023)”

Japan 2023: World Heritage Sites and Deer Encounters in Nara City

Most first-time travelers immediately think of Tokyo when planning a trip to Japan. From hi-tech sights to vibrant culture, the bustling capital offers the ultimate modern Japanese experience. However, the city can be quite overwhelming and tiring to navigate.

If you’re looking for a more peaceful and laid-back destination to go to with the whole family, Osaka is a good choice with because of the rich history that will appeal to seniors and kid-friendly deer encounters.

Continue reading “Japan 2023: World Heritage Sites and Deer Encounters in Nara City”

An adventure lover’s guide to Singapore

When adventure seekers go on a holiday, they often choose to visit countries that are known for their variety of thrilling travel experiences. Australia has river rafting, caving, and snorkelling; Brazil has hiking, surfing, and kiteboarding; the United States has cliff jumping, helicopter skiing, and canyoning. But have you ever wondered what adventures await you in Singapore?

Continue reading “An adventure lover’s guide to Singapore”

Where to eat and drink in Taipei, Taiwan (2023)

Taiwan is definitely a destination that will appeal to foodies. Whether you’re in the mood for the tastiest dumplings, freshest seafood, or unique street eats, Taiwanese cuisine has something to offer for everybody. For beer lovers, it’s also a great place for chill drinking sessions with its hip craft beer bars and good selection of beer in convenience stores and groceries.


Since Taiwan extended its visa-free entry for Filipino citizens until July 31, 2024, we decided to book a quick bike vacation to the capital city Taipei combined with food-tripping and drinking in between.

Continue reading “Where to eat and drink in Taipei, Taiwan (2023)”

Travel Guide: Biking in Taipei, Taiwan

While biking around Taipei, I couldn’t help but marvel at how amazing and safe the whole cycling infrastructure was. Right in the middle of the busy city, we could pedal for miles and miles along riversides flanked by lush greens and mangroves and scenic natural views.

The bike lanes weaved seamlessly through urban parks and gardens protected from the main highways where motorized vehicles pass and were set apart from motorcycle lanes with proper cement barriers, trees, or are placed on elevated cycle lanes and bridges over busy highways. Along the routes we took, there were numerous rest stops with water stations, public bike repair facilities, vending machines, clean restrooms, and bike parking areas.

Continue reading “Travel Guide: Biking in Taipei, Taiwan”