2014 Hong Kong Trip

Warning: This is a very lengthy post … Links to important places will be up soon.

Last year was the first time I was lucky to get a piso fare promo from Cebu Pacific. A highschool friend and I planned to go to Hong Kong and shop during the summer season since discounts are big in summer, she says. She has been to HK countless times, having relatives living there. I, too, have relatives who are HK residents but I’m not close to my relatives in general and besides, I’m quite afraid that visits to relatives will eat up my time which is intended for exploring HK really well this time. The last time I was in HK was just a year ago and the four day trip was just enough for me to learn about the subway system but sadly I grew restless from that trip because I discovered that HK has a lot to offer in terms of nature trips!

This year, my 7D7N trip has been a mix of ups and downs. I don’t think I got the most of this trip because of my relatives who kept on insisting in tagging along with me. Not that I’m complaining, I find it rather sweet of them to want to spend time with me but a solitary wanderer like me needs ample “me- time” most especially when exploring a new place. However theirs is a culture of late risers so my trips with them start at around 11 am onwards. Being an early riser when travelling, that was something that really tried my patience.

As before, the first thing I did upon arrival at the Hong Kong International Airport was to buy an Octopus card. I took few brochures since I brought with me the old maps I got last year which I have studied well prior to my visit this time. Then I waited for Third Aunt who was to pick me up from the airport. It was drizzling on the way to her flat and it was already late at night. So basically my first night is just to ensure I get enough sleep for a week’s activities.

The second day was spent at another aunt’s house. I was instructed on what bus to take and alight at which stop. Problem was, Fourth Aunt left the Philippines when I think I was yet to be born so I really did not know her until that day. It didn’t help that my other aunt told me she looks like a famous Filipino singer and actress so I guess I was expecting that. Who would have thought that the semblance was years ago! Fail!

So I stayed at her house for hours listening to her stories and getting to know her children--- my cousins. In the afternoon, after some three hours of napping, my aunt and one of my cousins (the youngest and is very pretty) took me to Kowloon Walled CityPark. It’s a very big park with the fragrant smell of juniper trees which reminds me of Baguio. I wish we had very big parks in Metro Manila, too. (But the government officials are corrupted to the core and they seem to want to sell the whole PH to private entities. I so hate them but that’s another story.)

I helped Fourth Aunt prepare dinner since I saw that her children cannot be relied upon to do house chores, being too busy with computers and smartphones. She was a terrific cook! She cooked 6 different dishes in just a little over an hour! Simply amazing! And as I blog tonight I cannot help but remember her grilled chicken. It was just the best chicken I have ever tasted! The tender meat, the marinade… it rivals that of RoyalBellagio Hotel's The Filling Station!

The third day was my only me time. I accompanied Third Aunt to her office in Central and then took off from there to walk. There never was a happy walker that time as I. I marvelled at the tall buildings bearing names of famous brands. I took lots of photos of the beautiful modern architecture alongside colonial-styled ones. The streets are clean, unlike in Metro Manila where people throw their garbage just about anywhere and get away with it when supposedly they should be fined.

I was able to visit the HongKong Museum of Medical Sciences, HongKong University Museum and Art Gallery, and the Hong Kong Maritime Museum. One whole day of walking that much was tiring but I got a treat from Third Aunt when we ate at a vegetarian restaurant at North Point. But because I had late lunch I wasn't able to eat a lot that time. We then visited an uncle and his wife who live in separate houses.

Back in my younger years, I remember my uncle who was a big man who often smelled of cigarettes, being a chain smoker. I didn't like him then because I hate cigarettes and he was always smoking the whole time he was at our house talking with my dad for hours on end. That time, he visited PH to attend my godfather’s wedding.

This year I was glad to learn he no longer smokes and suddenly he didn't seem so big to me anymore. He asked me to write down my name and I did, using the traditional writing system since I never liked the simplified version. (Sorry for being elitist, I guess when you’re serious about languages you tend to have a high disregard and intolerance for distortions and vulgar evolutions.) Anyway, he was surprised to find that my handwriting was quite good and told me that I am a courageous and daring individual for still preferring to write the old fashioned way. While his perception of me is quite the same as that of my close circle of friends who see me as a warrior, I do not think that I am worthy to be called courageous. Daring yes, but courage is something far nobler and is one of the values I always pursue but I guess the times are few when I can truly say I have had courage.

At my uncle’s wife house I was served with too many cups of tea and it was already late. My aunt was very warm and welcoming and I wondered why she lived away from my uncle. Anyway, she was surprised to find that I speak Fookien. (Is Chinese education in PH that bad that the Chinese are always surprised to find huaqiao who can speak fluent Chinese???) I also met a niece, the daughter of my cousin who was then in China so I never got to meet him.

The fourth day, Third Aunt and I woke up early and fetched my niece. We went hiking in Shek O County. I had been fantasizing about hiking in Dragon’s Back and I was happy when my aunt agreed to go with me. Unfortunately it wasn't the type of hiking that she prefers, being used to “hiking” (her term) cemented grounds. So I really didn't get to enjoy much because she was complaining about how dangerous it is to hike in such a place etc. when in fact, it’s a fairly easy hike. Felt like a walk in the park. Earlier I told her I love long hikes and that I am accustomed to doing mountain treks and she said she also hikes from time to time. Who would have thought her definition of hiking is actually “walking on paved grounds”! I guess it was also my fault for not clarifying or probing on what kind of “mountains” she had hiked to in the past.

We had to stop midway and go back to the city at noon for lunch. We were to meet Second Cousin’s wife and her kids there and then go to Golden Beach in New Territories afterwards. I was of course very sad since I love the mountains more than the beach. Besides, summer at the beach doesn't appeal to me. The very hot weather makes it hard for me to enjoy. And, beaches in PH are far more beautiful than in HK!!!

We had a wonderful dinner at my uncle’s house. It was a feast and I greatly enjoyed the yellow chicken (ginger chicken) and the fish (fried fish fillet and fish in low sodium say sauce--- simple but I love fish of any kind so just imagine how happy this kid was), the vegetables (squash and leafy veggies which I LOVE)… Oh what a spread they prepared! I was relieved to find that the only pork dish is Chinese style pork chop which is somewhat like asado.

The fifth day was spent with Fourth Aunt again. It was Kowloon walled city park part 2. Fourth Aunt prepared ramen noodles with dumplings for lunch. Awesome! I just love noodles! Then we went to Wong Tai Sin Temple. I wanted to weep with joy. The temple is just so grand and I wanted to explore its every corner but unfortunately there were too many people and I’m afraid my aunt and cousin might be bored with it already. Mental note to go back there on my next HK trip.

At night I was taken to my cousin’s house. This cousin of mine was my playmate when we were small. She was very naughty back then and she would always throw tantrums. My nanny recounts that my brothers would always bully her for being such and I was always the one to defend her from them. I also remember being put in charge of bathing her whenever she comes to visit our house without her nanny. Then one day she went to HK to join her family and it was only last year I think when we got in touch again through Facebook. It was she whom I informed of my intent to visit HK.

Third Aunt also took me to Big Aunt’s place. It was only when we were grown ups when we knew we had another aunt and that she was the eldest so Third Aunt is supposed to be Fourth Aunt and Fourth Aunt Fifth Aunt. But because we have grown accustomed, we never really practice the new calling system. Anyway, Big Aunt is a fragile woman and I like the feel of her very homey home where she lives with her son and grandchildren. I would have loved to spend more time with them but I guess there really isn’t much to talk about. I also found my nieces (her grandkids) lively and cute. I wish they could come over to PH when they’re a bit older and  I’ll show them around, probably to the beaches.

The sixth day was spent in Tsim Sha Tsui. Oh the memories of last year’s visit! TST will always be memorable because there are just so many beautiful attractions there especially near the pier. I was to meet up with my other uncle and his wife so I left Third Aunt’s house early and went to Hong Kong Science Museum. Then I joined my uncle and aunt for lunch where they treated me to a Japanese restaurant in Silvercourt. I AM JUST SOOOOO HAPPY!!!

A bit of shopping and it’s a good thing they brought me there since left alone, I wouldn't have bought anything during this trip. Shopping is not my forte, unless it’s shopping for food hehe. And because of them I knew that I got good value for my money having bought branded clothes at huge discounts. Awesome!

We parted ways shortly after and I was instructed how to go to their house for dinner and where I would stay for the night. They left me to wander in TST alone much to my brimming happiness!!! And so off to the Hong Kong Cultural Center I went with a plan to watch a concert but I promised to be at my uncle’s place before 7pm for dinner and it would be rude to be late and to make them worry. So instead I went to Hong Kong Art Museum which I never got to explore last year because it was closed during the Chinese New Year.

I did find my way to their house and spent the night there. My cousin to whom I was close to in my childhood days was already working and she came in when I was already asleep so we didn't get to talk.

The seventh day, my two cousins who are both girls, went out with me. We went to Lai Chi Kok Park first, also a very beautiful park. HK people are really lucky to have such well maintained parks within the neighborhood, unlike here in PH where you will have to travel far to have a breath of fresh air. Then off to the Hong Kong Space Museum where we watched a short movie about astronomy and space scientists. Next time I’ll be watching other films.

Next we went around Mongkok and Temple Street to shop. I bought only a few things being an inexperienced shopper and a miserly one at that. My cousins took me to a Chinese restaurant where we had yamcha (literally means “to drink tea” but it has come to mean having dimsum and tea). Fourth Aunt’s daughters also joined us. Because there is a Chinese resto of the same name in Manila, I thought at first that I am finally gonna experience the main branch LOL!

That night, I slept with Fourth Aunt’s eldest daughter and we chatted a bit before drifting off to sleep. She says she wants to visit the beaches in PH someday. I told her if ever she comes to visit, she should let me know so I can accompany her and show her around. Of course that means more reasons to travel! And I’m more than eager to spend time with my cousins who showed me what hospitality is and taught me what family and kinship mean.

The following day, Fourth Aunt woke me up very early in the morning. We went to meet with her friend and together we headed to Paktamchung where I got to see the reservoir. Also, it was my second hike and I was glad to take in HK’s natural beauty. It was tiring yet fun. What a day it was! Good thing the wind was refreshingly cool despite the summer heat.

In the afternoon, Fourth Aunt accompanied me to Big Uncle’s house to pick up some foodstuff I was to deliver back home. In the evening, Third Aunt and I had dinner at Fairlane Restaurant where I treated her for the first time in my life. We then went to my dear cousins’ house to deliver mooncakes I bought for them.

The next morning, I stopped by Fourth Aunt’s house for a surprise visit and to give her some mooncakes as my token of gratitude for the warm hospitality they extended to me. Boy was she surprised to see me! I already knew how to commute by bus! Yay!!!

For lunch, I went out with Big Uncle’s granddaughter (that makes her my niece) who treated me to a Japanese restaurant near Third Aunt’s place. She, together with Fourth Aunt, helped me with my bags as I boarded the bus to the airport. I got four huge bags with me and looking back I still couldn’t believe how I was able to survive with all that baggage, being used to just a backpack and a small bag when travelling.

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Note: At the time of writing, internet at home was down so I composed this on Word. This line is already in the fifth page. LOL

Siem Reap, Cambodia 0112172014

We arrived at Siem Reap around 5AM, still sleepy despite the comfortable bus ride we had with Giant Ibis. We went straight to Hak's House where we had booked 5 nights. The hotel was small and there were mosquitoes about due to the place's proximity to an almost dried up canal, but we had a pleasant stay there. The owner Hak was accommodating and very approachable. Did I say that I love their version of French bread with tomatoes and cheese? And to think I'm not even a sandwich person.

That same day, we headed to Apsara Angkor Hotel to register. There were already a lot of people. Due to lack of sleep, I dozed off a number of times during the plenary, which was sad because the speakers talked of the development of Cambodian archaeology. From the explorations by Westerners (French mostly) to the abrupt halt in archaeological endeavors in the Pol Pot regime, to the revisions in curriculum in archaeology, the plenary session was very informative for me since I don't remember including Cambodian archaeology in our class discussions.

The next four days saw us attending different sessions based on our research interests. There are of course boring lectures but I was lucky to have attended really really interesting lectures on archaeometry and cultural heritage management. I especially loved the presentations by Japanese and Chinese scholars and I realized that their contributions in archaeology are largely overshadowed by Western achievements primarily because of language barriers. Most of the presenters couldn't speak English very well, but looking at the flow of their research methodology, one can say that they are at par, if not better than most Westerners.

I was also fortunate to have conversed with some Chinese professors. When I asked them if they were going to present a paper, they said yes and invited me to their session. I was elated to hear that their session focused on scientific analyses of artifacts, something I have taken a liking to. The use of the latest technology to analyze artifacts is just appealing to me who loves doing lab work so much. (At that point, I wondered again why I didn't pursue a science course... Sigh! I could have dabbled in many experiments!)

Wednesday was reserved for a whole day tour in the Angkor Wat Complex. The intricately detailed carvings are just super awesome that they left me speechless.Many questions formed in my mind, like how many people built the magnificent structures, how they knew which material to use, which technology was available at that time, what led the rulers to commission the construction of such a massive temple complex. I also wonder how the laborers fared in the whole project. Were they slaves subjected to cruel whips or were they highly skilled craftsmen who join together under a ruler, or a mixture of both?

It was in Angkor Wat where a friend and I met a Chinese American girl who was travelling Mainland Southeast Asia all alone. We chatted a bit and afterwards, decided to meet up for dinner somewhere in Pub Street. We had a five-meat dinner composed of chicken, pork, beef, squid, and crocodile. I didn't know they also eat crocodile meat here. The first time I heard of crocodile meat was last year when I went to Palawan, and boy do I love the sisig version!

The last day of the conference was for me the best. It was when I saw the presentations of Chinese scholars and they were really brilliant! While at the session, all I thought about was how to grab a scholarship and be under the tutelage of expert scientists in China.

The last day I also got to chat with an Australian professor who remembered me. She was ever a lovely woman, very chatty and very nice. She lectured of geochemical characterization last year at ASP and she remembered me as the girl who "was good with computers" because I ran xPRF tests in rapid succession hoping to get the most of their visit because we don't have that ultra cool portable machine. She asked me if I also did GIS and I answered no. GIS is something I'd really love to learn given the opportunity to go back to school since I am fond of maps and mapping. Then again, it sucks not to have much funds for schooling. Tsk... SIGH!

Our last night in Siem Reap saw me and my friend having a relaxing time with fish spa (2 USD each). It was a bit surprising at first to feel the fish pecking at your feet but eventually it was fun and very relaxing.

I wish to go back to Siem Reap and explore more of their food. Also, we didn't get to explore other places due to lack of time. Of course we wanted to attend as many sessions as we could since we paid 75 USD for it. The price may be too high but it was all worth it. I was more than inspired.

On Friday night, we boarded the night bus to Ho Chih Minh.

Read about our Phnom Penh trip here.

January

January is coming to an end and I have yet to add anything other than what I did in December last year. 2014 started with a personal vow not to wish for the usual things I ask for, so I can give my heart a rest and stop expecting things to get better. 2013 ended with a promise to focus on the self and continue to reconnect with people whom I care for.

Reading my diary entries in highschool and early college years made me aware of how much I changed. I didn't realize the big change in me all these years, always thinking that I remained the same. But comparing my erstwhile angry, furious, self-centered writings to those at present, I can say that I have definitely become more compassionate and more tolerant of other people.

Perhaps, reading more about Buddhism and visiting Buddhist temples struck something in me. That life is illusory and empty used to be only a theory, but now a principle I hold, so I try to create meaning for myself in this world of constant change, to help me cope with my daily existential grievances. Pain is a passing illusion and relief is always just around the corner. Just be patient, I always tell myself. Perhaps my daily engagement with the very inefficient transportation system here somehow changed me a great deal. To escape great discomfort, I allowed my mind to wander aimlessly and come to myself when I am about to get off the train. No-mind practicing at its best.

Back from my first IPPA (Indo-Pacific Prehistory Association) Congress, held this year in Siem Reap, Cambodia from January 12-18, I was left utterly stunned and restless from all the amazing things I learned about archaeology in different parts of the world, more so about methods in archaeological science, a field I want to specialize in because however it is difficult to admit, I realized I love lab work more than the field.

I wanted to write so badly about Cambodia, but I didn't know where to begin. On cold nights when you feel too lazy to do things, I couldn't even look at the pictures I took for fear that I might just stare for hours on end hoping for muses to visit me so I could begin to write. It seemed like a dream. Yesterday's dream. I used to think that I would certainly cry when I walk on the grounds of Angkor Wat and touch the ancient temples' walls. When I was there, I only stood, overwhelmed, breathless, aiming to breathe in all the memories, wishing for time to stop so I could spend more time recording, touching, investigating. Now back in Manila, it felt surreal, like a beautiful dream you didn't want to wake up from.

Just four days after my return, my sisters and I flew to Boracay for that much-needed getaway. Boracay was never on my bucket list of places to go to, because of my perceived notion that the island is already very much commercialized. Indeed it is, but it was there where I found the finest white beach sand yet. My feet happily tread on the beach, sometimes deliberately burrowing deep to wallow in the creamy sand-saltwater mixture. And the winds! How they blew! The sunset blocked by hundreds of paraws... The lights at night, the blue sky... There is more than one reason to go back.

Just got back from Boracay this Monday and headed straight to work despite feeling extra sleepy and tired. But it's all so worth it.

Now if only I can start writing about my recent travels....

2013 Ilocos Trip Itinerary

THIS IS A VERY LENGTHY POST...
... so I highlighted important things for my readers.

This is the continuation to my previous post on my first solo travel.

Days before our trip, my friend unexpectedly got sick. For days I was debating within myself if I should forego the trip altogether or pursue it all on my own. It would be my first time to do a solo trip (not counting Palawan since I joined the archaeologists). Also, I thought that it would be a very cool way to welcome my silver year which I will be celebrating soon.

Because I was suddenly thrust into a solo trip with all my romanticism intact as I threw myself to the winds (lol! I love that phrase from Paul Auster's Moon Palace so please forgive me if I tend to use it many times), OUR plans changed at the last minute to MY plans. On the day of my departure, I did one last quick research on how to get the most of my solo trip, with plans to forfeit my return plane ticket and take the southbound bus instead. I even planned to stop by Pangasinan and La Union, but that didn't actually happen because suddenly I found myself buying a lot of pasalubong and moving around became difficult.

So below is my actual itinerary:

Day 1: ETA Laoag airport at 9:20PM (was supposed to arrive at 8PM but there was a typhoon in Manila and zero visibility caused the delay)
Now as what I have learned from my Hong Kong trip early this year, as advised by my uncle when he fetched us at the airport, never leave the airport without getting brochures and maps. I asked for maps at the information desk and registered for the free shuttle ride to Laoag. Cool huh?

I was second to the last passenger to be dropped off at my chosen place--- Texicano Hotel. It was already close to 10PM when I got there and rested for a while. I thought of sleeping on an empty stomach but after some thought I realized this wouldn't work. Texicano Restaurant was already closed at this hour so I had to do a quick exploration of the area within a 100 meter radius. Good thing I found Papa Pau's Diner where I had an order of fish and chips (P100). Couldn't get enough of fried cream dory. The chips were like Shakey's mojos. The umay factor was to be expected but I did finish everything. Of course I also requested a cup of hot water.

While eating alone, I felt lonely. If I did so in Manila, it wouldn't matter since I'm used to solo dates. But somehow a trip wouldn't be that fun without a companion...Went back to the hotel afterwards. Stores were already closed so I didn't get to buy a gallon of water. Washed my clothes and went to sleep before 11 PM.

Day 2: Woke up at 5:50 AM. Couldn't sleep well because my room faces a major road and vehicles passing by caused lots of noise. That, or I'm just not used to sleeping alone. Left my room at 6:30 AM and was befriended by a stranger. I forgot the basic rule: don't talk to strangers. I guess it was my first major blunder. But after our conversation and realizing my mistake, I did the next best thing: inquire about him. I was very much tempted to request for a change of rooms, but I totally forgot about it.

The first thing I did upon leaving the hotel is to look for a store to buy water and breakfast. Since it was still early, I bought 5 pieces of Durong's malunggay pan de sal (P2 apiece so P10). These also were my lunch since I kept on moving around yet didn't have the appetite to enjoy lunch at a restaurant.

Note: I only knew about Roque Ablan during this trip. He was considered a hero of WW2 for forming the Ablan-Madamba guerilla group of Northern Luzon.

With only half a bottle of water left, I explored Laoag city... well half of it anyway. While exploring I was also noting the jeepney routes. So when I was finally able to but a liter of water, I took the jeep to Sarrat to visit Sta. Monica Church and Convent. Fare was P15. Nobody inside the church. Felt creepy but was grateful for the chirping of birds which broke the cold silence. The museum was not yet open.

After touring Sarrat, I was ready to go to Piddig but encountered a problem: there was no jeep to Piddig at that time and I was already waiting for half an hour. I was told I had to go back to Laoag. It dawned on me that I broke another rule: farthest place first and nearest place last. I should have gone first to Piddig since the jeep passing from Piddig to Laoag also passes by Sarrat. DAMN!

Had a quick lunch at a carinderia near the jeepney terminal. I was attracted by the P10 pancit. It's too salty and I thought of our Ilocana secretary immediately because she also cooks pancit like that, too salty but with lots of crushed peppercorns. I had to add spiced vinegar to somehow counter the saltiness.

Walked around again. At this time I was already thinking, how far can I go without turning back? So seeing a  jeepney to Paoay which also passes by Batac and San Nicolas, I boarded it. Learning from my foolishness earlier, I asked which is farther, Paoay or Batac. The driver says Paoay so I asked to be dropped off at Paoay Church where, despite the rain, I marveled at the big buttresses and meditated for a time in the garden where they also kept well known quotes from St. Augustine. I asked around to go to Paoay Lake but a one way tricycle ride costs P200 so I left it for another Ilocos episode since I was more than sure I'd go back there for a complete Ilocos experience.

Off to Batac afterwards where I visited the Marcos Museum and Mausoleum, World Peace Center, Batac Church, and Aglipay Shrine. Jeepnety fare from Paoay was P10. I didn't get to eat their famous empanada because I wasn't in the mood to eat anything at that time.

From Batac I took a bus bound for Laoag and got off at San Nicolas , fare was P20.

San Nicolas Church, a pottery monument at the road junction, and the town hall

The jeep I took from San Nicolas to Laoag was from Banna, a town I didn't go to. Hopefully next time I will. After a rainy day of much walking I was delighted to find that the jeep stops very near Texicano Hotel. Yay! Time for bed. I washed my clothes again and slept a while before dinner at Texicano Restaurant. Had chopsuey with shrimp with no rice (P150) and a glass of pineapple juice (P35).

Message from my KJV Bible which I found to be comforting in my solitude:
2 Chronicles 15:2 "(...) The Lord is with you while you seek Him. If you seek Him, He will be found by you; but if you forsake Him, He will forsake you."

How apt that this solo trip has turned into a Visita Iglesia of some sort with me trying to find spiritual rejuvenation.

Day 3: Got up before 6AM and cancelled by Pagudpud/ Burgos tour because of the weather. I went to Pasuquin instead since I was told the beach there is more serene and waves are calmer. I had my apprehensions but ultimately, I chose the path less traveled. Who knows what stories I will bring when I go back with my unusual Ilocos trip?

I took out a cheeseburger (P80) fron Texicano Restaurant. Tricycle from Texicano to the jeepney terminal was P15. Jeep to Pasuquin was P25. At Pasuquin, I prayed a while at the church there and hired a tricycle to take me to Nalvo where I bought salt worth P20. Stopped by Villa Florentina Resort where I enjoyed the company of nobody but sea, breeze, sunlight, and a cute dog who seemed very friendly.

date with nature and furry friends, and just a cheeseburger

Before leaving Pasuquin, I bought a pack of their famous biscocho (P75). On the way back to Laoag, I dropped by a Chinese temple and offered some incense.

Chinese temple near the border of Laoag and Pasuquin

And finally, to Museo Ilocos Norte, my final stop before I leave Laoag for Vigan. I spent a considerable time in the museum as there are a lot of things to see and learn inside. For instance I noticed that Ilocanos have many different uses for basketry and so they also have various names for these based on functions. The whole museum was modeled as half market, half bahay na bato. The second floor provides a glimpse of usual things to be found inside an elite's house. I took pictures of almost everything so as to familiarize myself on the artifacts one may expect to find if ever I get to join an excavation in Ilocos.

upper right: preserved open trench. lower right: glass floaters (Bulintik)!

Back to the hotel and packed my bags for Vigan. I am so warmed by people's concern for my safety. People I've talked to wished me good luck and repeatedly told me to be very careful. I said goodbye to Laoag with a happy heart and with a vow to come back again. It's a good thing Texicano Hotel was just a few minutes' walk to a bus terminal leaving for Badoc and Vigan. I was having second thoughts about stopping by Badoc for Juan Luna's house since I was already carrying 3 bags but on the other hand, I cannot miss the opportunity to see the Luna Shrine because... because... Antonio Luna is a favorite hero and I think if I were born during his time I could have pursued him... In the end, my curiosity won and I found myself telling the bus conductor to drop me near Juan Luna's house. Non-AC bus fare from Laoag was P50.

Then off to Vigan. Waiting for a bus to Vigan along the major road took long. Bus fare was another P50. When the bus finally entered the famed city of heritage houses, my senses were instantly overwhelmed by the sight of colonial structures. WOW! Better than Intramuros many times over! I took a tricycle to Vigan Hotel (P10). No available single fan room so I took the double room which costs P495.

After cooling down for some 20 minutes, I went out and did my initial exploration. Visited Syquia Mansion since it was still open. And was pleasantly surprised to find Crisologo Museum open, too, so I went inside and had a look. Bought dinner at an eatery near Quezon Ave. cor. Libertad. Grilled bangus with half serving of rice was P155. I ate inside my room because it was already late and I promised my sisters I would be at the hotel before dark. Bad move coz the sauce from the grilled bangus soaked my canvas bag and I had to wash and clean my stuffs. At least I had a fairly decent dinner that night. At that point I was already wondering if my loneliness was the cause of my lack of appetite.

Quick bath, then plans for the morrow and the biggest decision on whether to leave for Manila the following day.

Day 4: Got up early to catch the Sunday mass but I missed the first so I roamed around the plaza and enjoyed the twilight hours. After that I attended Sunday mass. It was conducted in Ilocano so I didn't really understand anything but I did get to see how well-disciplined Ilocanos are compared to the barbarians of Metro Manila.

Vigan at dawn. Gloomy yet beautiful.

After mass, I headed back to my hotel for a quick breakfast of Nesvita. Then hired a tricycle for one hour (P150) to bring me to Bantay Church, Sta. Catalina Church, and St. Vincent Ferrer Church. Had the most fun at Bantay Church since one can climb up to the top of the belfry and have a breathtaking view. Also tried kalamay (P5 apiece). It's made from sticky rice with buko.

I asked to be dropped off at Burgos Museum after my church pilgrimage. I was lucky because October was museum month so all branches of the National Museum have free entrance. Yay!!! There I met Sir Efren Vister who showed me around and even told me jokes.

Back to the plaza and near my hotel, I spied Hap Chan in Vigan Plaza Hotel and realized how much I miss Chinese food. So in I went and ordered salt and pepper spare ribs with rice (P120) and took out Crispy beef with rice (P99) as my packed lunch.

By 11:30AM I had checked out of my hotel and was already outside waiting for a tricycle to take me to Partas bus station. Yes, I decided to go back home. Lo and behold! Kuya Boy, who drove me to the churches earlier in the day, was very timely in passing by the street where I waited for a tricycle. So we met again and he happily sent me to the bus station (fare was P10). I asked a bus scheduler to look after my things while I go to the market to do last-minute shopping because my mom asked me to buy tagalog garlic and my dad requested for a gallon of ilocano vinegar. My fate was secured, no more stopover and I could only go straight home because I definitely couldn't move around with so much things with me.

I got home before 10PM.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank my sisters and my parents as well as my officemate Mel for being my textmates the whole time I was in Ilocos. They somehow made me feel less lonely.
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This took me two days to write....

龍華寺 (Longhua Temple), Shanghai 04072013

After Qibao, we went to Longhua Temple. J said that she has not been here so it was included in our list of important places to visit. Longhua means "luster of the dragon". The temple is dedicated to Maitreya Buddha, a Messianic entity in Buddhist cosmology who is said to come to teach enlightenment when dharma (right way) is forgotten in the human world. This belief runs somewhat parallel to the eschatological beliefs in the Judeo-Christian tradition. (While this is an interesting study to pursue, I will have to stick to my present goals lest I be led astray again, but this will be a cool project if ever I have the time.)

this pagoda has been around since the 10th century and can be seen from far away

two of the four Heavenly Kings. I think these four are a mainstay in all temples...

The entrance fee of Longhua Temple is only CNY 10 and yet one can see many things. The area occupied by the temple is very big and Jade Temple pales in comparison. And since we went there in the afternoon, I couldn't remember how many times I asked myself if I had come to the end already. There's just way too many entrances and one courtyard to the other takes you to different praying stations.

Buddha with swastika.

 While looking at the Buddha sculptures, I chanced upon one with a swastika sign on his chest. While I know that swastika was originally associated with Buddhism before it became a Nazi symbol of tyranny and oppression, I don't think I have ever seen the sign in any Buddhist temple I have been to. The swastika actually symbolizes being with the higher self, a main thought in Buddhism.

Guanyin... I can tell by the number of hands!

Another familiar deity is the Guanyin Pusa, or more popularly known in the West as the Goddess of Mercy. The many hands of this deity signifies her willingness to uplift the lives of many people.

Read more about my 2013 Shanghai Adventure

七寶 (Qibao town), Shanghai 04072013

We had breakfast at the hotel, having bought food the night before. I love the [starch] potato chips which are very cheap and taste almost like pringles though these are thicker and mildly flavored. These potato chips are sold on the street near the hotel we stayed in. Aside from this, we had cakes and the dark green thingies which were made of glutinous rice which we bought near Jade Temple. Last night we saw lots of people flocking to the stall and we got curious so we bought some for ourselves. And they're not bad, considering I used to not like Chinese pastries (except hopia and mooncake). The two instant noodles were bought by V. We all agreed that the sour fish flavor is more delicious. (And now I miss those noodles!)

breakfast of junk food on our last day

Our last day in Shanghai was a Sunday. 七寶 (Qibao town) was already crowded by the time we got there in the morning and as time passes by, more and more visitors flocked to the famous ancient town which is more than a thousand years old now.

On the way to Qibao, one can see the town's history on the walls

The town, which literally means "seven treasures", (and is also the kanji name of Shippo the small fox in the animé Inu Yasha for a bit of trivia) derives its name from the presence of Qibao Temple. To regress further, the temple got its name because it housed seven treasures in the form of the Iron Buddha, a bronze bell, a Lotus Sutra scripted in gold, a thousand year old Catalpa tree, a jade axe, a gold cockerel, and a pair of jade chopsticks.

Qibao is a water town... reminds me of Water 7 in the animé "One Piece"

Like 豫園 (Yuyuan), Qibao is famous for many small shops selling assorted crafts and snacks. There are many things to do in this ancient town and it's very popular with tourists. I think the best part of this town aside from the cheap and delicious food is that there's a shop here that sells real swords! If only I had the resources and the means, I would have certainly bought one. My only worry is that it might just get confiscated at the airport. Sigh! If only I could pay for shipping.

perfect for cosplay... on second thought, they are REAL swords!

 V and I shared a bowl of goat meat ramen in this town. I was disappointed though to find it has less spices compared to the ramen houses to frequent in Manila. Still at least I got to try goat meat. It's not everyday that I get to eat goat meh heh!

Done with shopping, we headed to the subway and as we were waiting for the train, I caught a glimpse of an ad across the platform: ONE PIECE!!! I almost cried! It's true then that this animé is well-loved in this country. I should know since I used to watch random episodes on CTV when I was still a student.

Read more about my 2013 Shanghai Adventure

玉佛禅寺 (Jade Buddha Temple), Shanghai 04062013

Weary and tired from walking too much the whole day and after a huge disappointment at going to Shanghai Railway Station for nothing (V said there was a wig shop there but we didn't find it), we headed to Jade Buddha Temple where two very famous jade buddha statues can be found.

Entrance fee is 20 CNY and visitors have the option to pay another 10 CNY to go to the temple's interiors.

Jade Reclining Buddha

We spent less than an hour inside the temple because it was about to close when we got there. Still I think an  hour would suffice since there isn't much to see. My friends and I agreed that 龍華寺 (Longhua Temple) with entrance fee of just 10 CNY is better.

Read more about my 2013 Shanghai Adventure

Shanghai 0404072013

A few days before our flight to Shanghai, news of a new bird flu outbreak caused a stir even here in the Philippines. My parents told me to postpone my trip with my highschool friends, but I told them we'd be just fine. For their peace of mind, I swore not to eat fowl meat (though it doesn't really contribute to contracting the flu). I also told them I'd be putting on face mask at all times (though when we got to Shanghai it felt weird so I didn't use it much). The stubborn me insisted that we have already paid for our plane fares and it would hurt if we didn't get to consume our flights. I also added that this would be risk I would be willing to take for the sake of travel. (Honestly though, the thought of my almost P4000 going down the drain scared me more.)

Not expecting cold weather, I packed mostly t-shirts and jeans, with only a coat to keep me warm. Bad decision indeed since our bodies were too accustomed then to Manila's summer heat to withstand the sudden cold of China. When we got out of the plane and stepped int the airport, I could immediately feel the chill. Later on, I was already shivering, and thoughts of spending my vacation in the hospital scared the wits out of me. Oh no, I just couldn't afford to be sick at that time when I was supposed to be seeing new places and eating Shanghai cuisine. Fortune smiled on me and I survived the night. We had a few hours' sleep on the benches in the airport.

Come morning of the 5th of April, we had quick breakfast at KFC in the airport. I had chicken congee (8.50 CNY) forgetting my promise to my parents. I just couldn't resist. Chicken soup is just the thing when cold. We bought our three-day unlimited subway pass for 45 CNY and boarded the first-hour train.

On our first day (April 5) we went to Century Park, Shanghai Museum, and The Bund. I had a heavy lunch of porkchop plus 3 veggie dishes and rice for only 11CNY. And boy was I happy with what I was served! The eatery is located near Jinjiang Pudong Inn where we stayed for two nights for this trip. For dinner, I had hot and sour beef noodles (still couldn't get over Vietnam's pho) for 15 CNY which lives up to its name making me a happy diner. It's a good thing, too, that I bought green tea yoghurt drink (8 CNY) when we got out of Shanghai Museum. I used the sweet and sour and cold of the drink to temper the hot and spicy noodles.The noodles were a little pricey because the shop is in a tourist spot. It's located near the People's Plaza.

On April 6, we had breakfast at a small dumplings shop on the way to the Subway. We walked far from the hotel, refusing to take a taxi or the bus to save on fares. Besides, we had to take advantage of our unlimited pass. We had hot 千里香 (Qianlixiang) wanton (6 CNY/ 20pcs) and seaweeds wanton (10 CNY/ 10 pcs). Both were served in soup, which was good seeing the rain wouldn't let up any minute. I also bought rice hash brown (1.50 CNY) sold in the streets. The day before, when we were checking in at the hotel, I saw a man eating that and I almost interviewed him had my friends not interfered. (I just wanted to ask where he bought the hash brown). Anyway, that fried thing was a nice treat. Crispy outside and a bit soft inside. Yum! It's best eaten hot. Otherwise, you'll see much of the oil.

Yuyuan

Our second day was spent walking and viewing the posh buildings of 新天地 (Xintiandi). Later on I thought we should have skipped this since the area is known to be a shopping district and expensive items are sold there and we were just a bunch of poor kids. After that, we went to 豫園 (Yuyuan) where we went shopping for food items for our loved ones back home. A visit to the famed Kobayashi which produces wonderfully fried cookies, is a must. We shopped at Cheap Road, so called for the cheap items being sold there. After a quick lunch of 金包銀 (some sort of dumplings which can get addicting) and小籠包 (xiaolongbao), we headed to Shanghai Railway Station. This time, to meet V's goal of buying her wig, which according to her is near the railway station. Unfortunately, the place was too big and we have circled the area but found no wig store. Utterly defeated, we proceed to Jade Temple for a bit of spiritual guidance.

Shanghai Railway Station

After Jade Temple, we went to  陸家嘴 (Lujiazui) to see the Oriental Pearl TV Tower. We didn't get inside though because of the expensive entrance fee. Still we appreciated very much the wonderful dragons in the middle of the road and the distinct tower towering above others.

Oriental Pearl TV Tower at dusk

Our last day in Shanghai was spent touring three more places: 七寶 (Qibao town), 龍華寺 (Longhua Temple), and the Jewish Refugees Museum. I had the most fun in the ancient town of Qibao, I felt like a wandering samurai walking on the streets and savoring the festive atmosphere there. There just were too many people, perhaps because it was s Sunday.

Qibao on a Sunday

When it was time to say goodbye, I felt sad. Not only will I miss the dimsums and the architectural beauties, I will also miss the jokes told to me by the Chinese people, the stories, everything. I just love how I made them laugh and how they made me laugh in return. It's different from the Shanghai experience I was expecting.

Exchange rate: 1 CNY= 6.60 PHP

More blog posts about my Shanghai trip to follow and will link to this post. :)

Honda Bay and Chinese Temple, Palawan 04232013

Day 2 of my Palawan 2013 trip was spent mostly in Honda Bay. Taking the multicab from Puerto Princesa proper to St. Lourdes (with a sign saying "Honda Bay"), we were dropped off near the tourism office.

Below are the costs one needs to take note of:

snorkeling gear P100

water shoes (optional) P100

boat rental (for 6 pax) P1300

Luli Island P60

Pambato Reef P50

Starfish Island P50

Pandan Island P150

Cowrie Island P75

Our first stop was Luli Island, a very small private island with houses on stilts. Its name is short for Lulubog-Lilitaw, due to its visibility depending on the tides. Lubog is to be submerged and litaw is to surface. One can spend some time snorkeling and swimming with little fishes here.

Luli Island

Next stop was Pambato Reef but I don't have pictures since my camera isn't waterproof. Our guide has a big doughnut-shaped floater which we must hang onto. (However, for those who know how to swim, they may not cling to the floater.) The guide will pull the floater and you will see the different colored corals under the sea. Very breathtaking! It's such a pity I don't have a waterproof camera (sulks again). Still the experience was very nice. I suggest that you don't skip Pambato Reef.

We skipped Starfish Island and proceeded to Pandan Island where food can be bought. It is also said to be the most complete island as it has shower areas, too. Don't be surprised if the water is a bit salty.

We had lunch in Pandan Island. The bilao we ordered consists of chicken, tilapia, grilled squid (my favorite), and pork. A filling lunch, and delicious at that! (And as I write I drool at the memory of the squid. YUM!)

At Pandan Island

The last island is Cowrie Island which we didn't bother to visit since our guide told us that it's just a place where people bathe after hopping from one island to the other.

Cowrie Island

After the Honda Bay tour, I took a quick bath at the Tourism Office. On the way to the multi-cab terminal, I took a walk and snapped photos of Saint Andrew's Church and a Buddhist Temple. I went inside the temple and burned some incense. Noting the quietness of the area, I asked the guard where the monks are and he replied that there is only one monk who resides in the temple. He must be awfully lonely, I thought, to live in such a huge place. At the back of my mind, I thought, I probably will choose to live thus, once I tire of the endless chaos in the cities.

Had dinner at Metro Silog in Puerto Princesa. I had squid sisig and it was wonderful. It was my first time to eat sisig and I have to make sure it's not pork!

Zoo and Botanical Gardens, History Museum, Hung Kings Temple 03012013

Entrance fee: 8,000 VND
What to do: roam around and observe animals, take pictures, rest under the shades, savor the presence of trees
Nearby places: History Museum, Temple of the Hung Kings

The Hung Kings Temple was erected by the French in 1926 as a memorial to those who fall in defense of France during the First World War (1914-1918). In 1954, the South Vietnam Government reconstituted it as a place to worship the Hung Kings, Confucius, General Tran Hung Dao, and Le Van Duyet. The temple was renamed as Temple of the Hung Kings in 1975.
(Information taken from plaque outside the temple)

Hung Kings Temple

side view of Hung Kings Temple

The History Museum was established on August 23, 1979. It not only exhibits artifacts reflecting the national history, but also artifacts from other Asian countries including 10th-19th century wares from China, Cambodia, Japan, Thailand, and France. Interesting exhibits include the Xom Cai Mummy, Buddhist statues, stone carvings from Cambodia from the 9th to 13th century, blades from the late 18th century, and Tay So Dynasty coins. 

Entrance fee: 15,000 VND, pay extra 32,000 VND to be able to take photos inside
Note: I declined paying extra. Did take down notes, though. :)

The Xom Cai mummy got its name from the place in District 5 of Ho Chih MInh City. It is actually the remains of Mrs. Tran Thi Hieu who died in 1869. According to studies, the body is soaked in red solution. The aristocratic woman was 60 years old, and stood 1.52 meters high.

Seeing the stone carvings taken from Cambodia, one cannot help but wish to see Angkor Wat immediately. The intricately designed carvings are proof of the ancient Cambodians' exceptional skills. 

Buddhist-related statues are many. One notices some headless statues in the exhibition hall. Inscribed stelae with carvings narrating consecrations of a holy footprint of the God Vishnu by Prince Gunavarman, drainage works, and donations to the God Siva, can also be viewed.

Another interesting find is the wooden pile unearthed by Louis Malleret in Oc Eo. The wooden pile was part of an ancient architecture that has long ago disappeared and is considered rare.

History Museum with giant porcelain jar encased in glass outside

As I viewed the exhibits, a group of tourists arrived with a French-speaking Vietnamese guide. I took it as an opportunity to practice my French and listened to her. She was then explaining the symbolisms of a statue of Amitabha. The hands represent compassion, the lotus flower purity, the long ears longevity, the head intelligence of the Buddha, which also represents enlightenment.

When the tour guide noticed me along with the group, she jested that I should pay. I said, "Je ne comprends pas" and ran off, much to the delight of the French touring group who laughed at my joke.

As we were nearing the exit, I happened to find a statue of 關羽 (Kim Loai in Vietnamese) holding the Spring Autumn Annals.  關羽 is sworn brother to 劉備 in the Romance of the Three Kingdoms. With his signature long beard and his choice of weapon, the crescent blade, it is not hard to recognize the Chinese general who is also worshiped as a deity, according to my father. And the statue could very well be the proof of this.

Photos taken inside the Zoo and Botanical Gardens:

Read about my 2013 Ho Chih Minh adventure HERE