When I first began traveling, I was drawn to the sheer visual spectacle of a destination—the more picturesque, the better. I believed that dramatic landscapes alone could capture the spirit of my journey, with each frame giving me a postcard-worthy memento. But as I pursued the craft of travel writing more seriously, my perspective evolved. I came to realize that a place is more than its scenery; I discovered that a great deal of a destination’s soul rests in the stories of its people. By putting more focus on the locals, I witnessed how their traditions, heritage, and daily rhythms weave a richer narrative, thus transforming every visit into a deeper, more meaningful experience that lingers long after I leave.

The "Binanog" is a courtship dance of the Panay-Bukidnon that imitates the movements of a hawk.

Anyone who has entered an old house, especially a well-preserved ancestral home, can compare the experience to visiting a museum. As one observes a piece of furniture, a painting adorning the wall, or an eye-catching design detail, including the very architecture itself, a rich narrative unfolds—one that stretches across decades and, in certain instances, even a century.

The ancestral house of Dr. Luis Santos in Malolos is just one of several heritage houses in the city's Kamestisuhan District.

Adam McManus is a Canadian university student who balances his studies with his passion for scuba diving. A PADI-certified diver, Adam’s greatest love is exploring alien, underwater worlds that few people ever get to see.