Busig-On Festival: A Retelling of an Epic Bicolano Tale | Camarines Norte

Marky Ramone Go July 24, 2020

As a spectator many times over of numerous Philippine festivals in the past, I still overflow with enthusiasm each time I witness a new one. After experiencing the Ati-Atihan three times and the Sinulog twice already, I’ve had more than enough dose of fun from those twin-festivals honoring the Sto. Niño. However, I’m always game to immerse in the different vibe of other lesser-known festivals in the country. Camarines Norte’s Busig-on Festival isn’t just previously unknown to me, it also has an interesting backstory involving a widely retold local story. Therefore, during my 8-hour bus ride to the province, I already visualized the kind of frenzy atmosphere that awaits me.

Luzon Read more

A Purposeful Trek to the Sacred Bud Bongao Mountain | Tawi-Tawi

Marky Ramone Go July 19, 2020

I remember being envious of my then-girlfriend years ago, when she went on a solo backpacking to Tawi-Tawi and hiked the Bud Bongao. Not only is the mountain located in the southernmost province of the Philippines, it is also considered as a sacred peak. Two preachers mentored by Karim ul-Makhdum–the Arab missionary who brought Islam to the Philippines in 1380–are said to be buried in Mt. Bud Bongao in a location called the Tampat Rocks.

wilderness Read more

Beaches in the Philippines Perfect for Social Distancing

Marky Ramone Go July 14, 2020

The future of traveling is facing uncertainties brought on by the “new normal” or as aptly put: the "temporary abnormal", until a vaccine for Covid-19 is discovered. Until then, expect travel to become heavily reliant on precautionary measures such as social distancing. Crowded tourist destinations will—for the meantime—be out of our travel plans. This however, shall challenge travelers to be extra creative in exploring places. Great news though, beach-goers need not worry. Because in a country blessed with more than 7,000 islands, we have a lot of beach choices that meet the criteria for proper social distancin. Here are some of them.

Travel Guide Read more

Travel Lokal in the ‘New Normal’

Marky Ramone Go July 12, 2020

Despite more than two months of community quarantine and minimal venturing into the outside world—mostly on supply runs—majority of us are fighting cabin fever humoring our predicament and making the most of our downtime. In our minds, we are still living out our wanderlust through reading books, binge-watching, learning online courses, writing and whatever that may stir the pot of our creativity.