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Monday, May 14. 2007
 Our ultimate child's fantasy is to meet our hero. It's not Spiderman or Superman. But the mouse with a huge ear and head. Yes, Mickey Mouse will always be a classic character. So why don't you give your child the thrill of his life and let him play with Mickey Mouse and his gang? He'll never forget the wonderful day! For parents like you and me, what is the price of an endearing smile and a tight embrace? It doesn't amount to anything when you see your family have a taste of a fantastic adventure.
For my son's birthday, I brought the whole family to Walt Disney World Resort. John, my 7-year-old boy was thrilled and excited to be in this magical place for the first time. Even without the cake, gifts, and balloons, having us around made him happy enough. If Walt Disney can create the best fairytale finale and plots, you'll surely find the same aura of magic in this recreational resort. We went swimming, playing, and strolling around the whole paradise. Mickey Mouse will never ever lose his charm and appeal even to an old guy like me!
You'll be in awe with the four Walt Disney World Resort Theme Parks. My boy loves the Animal Kingdom. He enjoyed the slides and whole setting in the wild. On the other hand, my wife preferred the Epcot Center, which she says has more grandeur when it comes to details. Me? I just love the Magic Kingdom. It made into a boy again. But if there's one park we all agreed to stay the longest, it's in Disney MGM Studios. Isn't it just amazing to see fantasy come to life?
Sunday, May 13. 2007
Perhaps, the purpose of any travel is to learn and discover. These are the forces that set voyagers sailing to different turfs of adventure and mysteries. There's a Napoleon in every one of us who seize to explore the great beyond, and what a good way to respond to your calling but to travel in Asia, right? It's one part of the world that never grows tired of its eccentric culture and exotic splendor. If you like to experience the true Asian heritage and majesty, I'd suggest that you go to Bangkok city, Thailand. The place is fascinating and for sure, the trip would suit your taste for learning and discovering.
Saturday, May 12. 2007
What makes Bangkok special? There are wonderful things you'll see in the capital of Thailand that you'll never find in Europe! You'll be in awe with the beaming skyscrapers and historical temples but at the same time, you'll be humbled by the culture, which is apparent in every street and corner of the city. Civilization is reunited with heritage and values. The people are not afraid to bear it all with floating markets, fruit carvings, temples, and street trade fairs. The countryside is stunning and the beach resorts are to die for. It's a tropical paradise for simple, ordinary living.
Friday, May 11. 2007
 When you're in Bangkok, make the most out of it. Enjoy the food, relax with the famous Thai massage, and feast your eyes with the breathtaking sites. You'll soon find solace away from the hustle and bustle of work. My personal favorite is watching the Muay Thai boxing match; every minute sends chill to my spine. It's quite exciting and engaging. Or, to fascinate yourself more, how about a treat to glitz of a lady boy show? I'm sure you'll be packed up with experience and memories in no time. But before you go home, don't forget to have a dinner cruise on the Chao Praya River. It's something you can't afford to miss.
Thursday, May 10. 2007
Lebanon will be the last thing on your mind when it comes to holiday travel. You'll fear for your own life and safety especially when you hear how an Israelli air strike killed 54 innocent Lebanese people. Whatever age-old resentment or apathetic dispute there is, it's not an excuse to destroy a wonderful land of ancient scenery. If not for grave threats and terrorist attacks, I'm sure Lebanon will still be a great tourist destination even for Jewish people.
Wednesday, May 9. 2007
Do you know that Beirut, the capital of Lebanon, was once considered as Paris of the Midle East? It is a surprise to see how sophisticated architecture lie on concrete disasters incurred by the post civil war. And though the city was devastated immensely, it went through an impressive transformation to revive the vibrant glow of Beirut. It is a charming town teeming with natural landscapes, museums, booming social highlights and civilized culture and heritage.
Tuesday, May 8. 2007
You don't need to arm yourself with shields and weapons. There are a number of recreational activities you can gratify yourself with while staying in Lebanon. Of course, you'll have to pray for your life too. While trekking and hiking the Roman ruins and majestic mountains, you will appreciate how beautiful the whole nation can be if not for the terrorist attacks. You can also visit museums, different Islamic architecture or even go skiing. There are too much to see but unfortunately war destroyed a wonderful opportunity.
Tuesday, May 1. 2007
You used to be a knight in shining armor for a damsel in distress. But where are you now? You're supposed to climb up the castle and defeat the dragon that threatens your marriage. She was once your princess only to turn into a dominating witch after years of being together. She's no longer Sleeping Beauty but a gory mess when she wakes up. But don't be a smug! You're no prince charming either. You've got a pot belly and you snore like hell. So in the end, there's no happy ever after and you can just say, "like hell I didn't know it's going to be this way!
Monday, April 30. 2007
Stop whining about a frustrating married life and do something. You've got kids, the house, and the contract that binds you. Besides, divorce can be expensive especially when your wife decides to punish you and get even, so don't think about it. Have you seen your wife lately? How many years have you been married? You don't need flowers or expensive gifts for your anniversary. The best gift a husband can give his wife is to remember it.
Sunday, April 29. 2007
I looked at my wife Dianna. I don't know when and why the spark had suddenly disappeared, but I know I owe her a lot for the times I failed to appreciate her. So for our anniversary, I planned a trip to a resort in Hawaii. She was surprised but more than happy to be with me alone after several years. What was just a plain idea of vacation and travel turned out to be an antidote to the weariness of our marriage. Sometimes, simple things can make the big difference. I learned that all women ask of their man is to be cherished and love. Remember the dates and show them that you care especially on the anniversary to celebrate the times you've been together.
Sunday, April 22. 2007
I would confess about a time in my life when the only picture I have in my mind of Germany is the beetle car from Volks Wagen. That's on top of what I learned in my history class about Johann Sebastian Bach, Karl Marx, and the infamous Adolf Hitler. But the day of my enlightenment came on a trip to my Uncle George. I never thought that there were a lot to appreciate in the German culture, and one of which is the Nikolaustag.
Saturday, April 21. 2007
We flew in early December just in time for Nikolaustag or Saint Nikolaus. I never thought Germans would believe in a fictional Santa Claus. It was totally out of their character. I learned that it's one of their favorite holidays to honor Saint Nikolaus as the bishop who helped poor people with good deeds. The myth began when a father decided to send his daughters to a brothel house because he can't afford the dowry. When Nikolaus heard about it, he sneaked into their house with the money bags to prevent his daughters from prostitution. From that lore, they started honoring the legend of Saint Nikolaus with a holiday celebration.
Friday, April 20. 2007
 Saint Nikolaus goes from house to house and asks children if they've been good or bad. Often, the children will recite a poem, sing, or showcase other talents for the Saint Nikolaus character. In return, Saint Nikolaus will give them gifts or tokens of appreciation. The streets are gay and contagious. I've also observed the softer culture of the Germans when it comes to family. They go to church together and will then share a humble feast at home. It was a very memorable and spectacular experience for me. The stay with Uncle George showed me the happy and generous side of the Germans.
Monday, April 16. 2007
We stayed with Aunt Lucinda and her husband Ramon for the Los Dias de los Muertos or Days of the Dead. I came to Mexico not to celebrate Halloween but to mourn for my dead girl's soul. Every night, I would sneak out and visit the graves hoping that I'd get to see her, but nothing eerie lurked in those quiet nights. So I comforted myself to the holiday cheer. Yes, it's cheer, because unlike in other countries, they celebrate Halloween like a birthday feast for the dead. They honor them with flowers and prayers.
That night, I dressed up to the tradition as a vampire. While the townspeople were more than happy to party with fun in the spirit of the season, I was moping and praying in a secluded corner. I was pensive and sincere when a girl tapped my shoulder. Her name's Nenita. I was relieved to share my grief with her. But I never got to see her again that night. Come the next day, we went to the cemetery by procession. They brought along shovels and picks to clean the grave.
My Uncle Ramon even brought a picture of his dead sister. I was touched by his devotion so I carried the album for him. Then, I was stunned for a while, unable to mumble a word. The same girl I saw last night was in the picture. A butterfly soon perched in my shoulder. I didn't know what to say, but Mexicans believe that dead people return as humming birds or butterflies. Believe me, it frightened the shit out of me!
Saturday, April 14. 2007
New York will be the last thing on your mind when you say Christmas. The Big Apple could be a slum in a normal fast-paced city life. I too agree, that aside from the skyscrapers and the vast opportunity, New York doesn't appeal much to me as a very lovely place. Even the word lovely is in no match in dictionary to describe New York. Say mazing or exciting, but not lovely. You say lovely in a place where there's peace and harmony with nature. There could only be the hustle bustle in that big New York city.
Last year, I spent Christmas alone. It was hard enough not to see your family, but to freeze in cold alone in New York was excruciating. I was lonely all the more. This particular holiday was not a prerogative for me, but a predicament from my boss. I must have been a naughty boy for Santa to punish me that way. So I took off when couldn't bear it anymore, that I found the only comfort with my coat. I sauntered off to the winter chill.
It was fascinating. Don't you just love the white Christmas? It's fine slush of snow drizzling on your shoulder. It's almost too romantic. Even in the chilling cold, the streets warm up with carols and the shopping galore. Lovers and family in the city rediscover life almost like they're given a precious break from the stressful life.
I love the wonderful lights that illuminated my solitude. People were unusually friendly. I even got to skate. I went round and round, raising my hands up, feeling the magic of the season. I went to cafes to even stop for a minute to see. New York wasn't bad at all. There must be something special here for people to gamble on their future.
I definitely love the winter in New York. It's warmer than the summer. I marvel at how, by looking at these people and imbibing the atmosphere, I felt home with Santa's spirit.
Thursday, April 12. 2007
 Where's the best place to spend Valentine's for a dive of hugging and tugging that love vine? Sorry to say, but Europe has worn-out for my taste of a terrific get- away. Paris is too cramped up by lovey- doves, swamped with lovers from all parts the globe. There's nothing wrong with that, but if I were you I'll add up a little spice on romance. Why not go oriental so you'd be a man of mystery and surprise?! That way, you won't only make a good impression, you'll also rekindle that flame.
As his love doctor, my cousin Joe followed my prescription for his lovesick girlfriend Sora. And off they go to the enchanting island in Maldives. At first, it felt awkward to be on their first scuba and snorkeling adventure. But later on, the wonderful under sea landscape and coral reefs took over their building tension until they eventually found themselves enjoying the new experience.
On a perfectly upheaving boat ride, they were able to relax and talk about matters of the heart. Sora confessed that she felt like they're hitting the sack of their relationship. While it was fun and good, it then turned to be just a normal day routine. Joe, always the gentleman, didn't push for more. While relaxing through an Indian massage, he let things fall into place. He loved Sora, but he needed her to love him as much. After their island tour, Sora finally broke up with Joe.
Now that's a sob ending but not yet! Joe moved on with a shattered heart and after a month, Sora pleaded for a reconciliation. Playing it coy, it took Joe another month before Sora proposed for marriage. Now that's a whirlwind of change after the Valentine!
Sunday, April 8. 2007
A freezing-cold and a switchback road. Every part of the world is on its way to climb the peak! If you haven't seen the Mount Everest yet, you'll never know the great enchantment behind it. Why would anybody risk his life for minutes of domination atop the world?
Since countless expeditions have been launched every year, and climbers make it seem like the feat of a lifetime, my interest piled into a hill of desire. If there's something I want to do, I wanted to view the great Mount Everest. So after endless scrimping and pinching on my splurges, I got to save enough for a trip to Nepal. You may be wondering "Was it worth it?". Hell yeah! There's nothing too spectacular in a pile of icebergs. But you should at least see the closest thing to the skies above. I won't even dare climb but seeing it, I sighed with relief. It's huge, it's tall, and it's definitely majestic. You'll be embraced by its tremendous aura of power and stature.
I'd say that Mount Everest is a formidable symbol. Either a symbol of greed, power, or domination, I won't know for sure. But for climbers, it's the symbol of triumph and feat. After all, isn't the world driven to reach the peak to be invincible? I'd say that's the spell. But even when I'm chilling to my bones, I was enveloped with warmth in seeing one of God's colossal masterpiece. Mount Everest is a symbol from God- a God that is the most powerful of all, looking at us from above.
Friday, April 6. 2007
Mr Go is the best Chinese deli cook in town. If we're so bummed with those sticky, cheesy pizza and pepperoni, we would order those Chinese food in the box. It's our idea of a decent meal. Do not expect gourmet cooking if you're living with one of the sloppiest buds in the city. Everyday is a cowboy meal.
So he serves good food with funny antics on the side. Everytime he would give us those fortune cookies and when nobody's looking, I would crack it open to see my roll of fate. It's been years sicne I last saw him. One time, when he was going back to China to celebrate the New Year with his family, he invited me saying that we should welcome the year with a dragon dance if I still haven't seen one. I hurriedly packed my bag and some Jackie Chan dictionary and Jet Li travel guide.
I was lost in translation upon my arrival as I don't understand what they're saying. They're like Martians blabbing on a secret code or something. So I kept mum most of the time. I was having this culture shock syndrome, and the only thing that kept me excited was the food.
Good thing the celebration started soon. I found myself clicking snapshots everywhere as the streets were jam packed with people. The dragon dance was fascinating. It was very graceful, athletic, and empowering, although you can see those silly feet underneath. The best thing ever was the firework display. It's like going to an Olympic game with those ceremonial torches. It was lively, sparkling, and illuminating.
To keep up with the beat, I read more about the Chinese calendar and Zodiac signs. I even consulted fate through numerology, palm reading, and the Chinese calendar. It was amazing, hopefully with near resemblance to truth (I wish it ain't a scam after all).
Little by little I learned quite a bit about the Chinese culture. I had some picture and my buds were envious seeing me with a beautiful Chinese girl. They were drooling, wishing they were there to see the spectacle and highlights of a unique encounter. What I'm looking forward now is some Chinese circus and acrobatics, maybe in my next visit.
Monday, April 2. 2007
 How would you like to see the actual drama? Not the bursting tears or the trivial reunion from a long-lost love, but of life and death. If every day is a battle to survive and a feat to strive, why can't we see an actual bloodbath? I know many will disagree, from advocates of animal welfare to softy and compassionate human delegates. But hey, it's one great show!
Bullfighting is a national sports in Spain. Men in red capes or the silly- looking "matadors" duel against the infuriated "torro" or bulls. They taunt, provoke, and poke a sword or espada. It's one dance show. For minutes you'll hold your breath, and for instance you'll feel the adrenaline of life flowing in you. Every minute matters, every miscalculated move is a final strike to death. That's the thrill in Spanish bullfighting!
I get to snatch a shot with a matador who goes home with the tail of the slain bull. Gory, huh?! But that's how they are rewarded for a good show. As if to further pique on the bull even after death... Tragic!
It's better to see bulls slam on death than to see dying men on the ground. And for me, I take pleasure in being a part of this real- life drama. Enough of Paris Hilton's. I'm taking home a gruesome memory of death and will always be reminded to invigorate my life for each minute counts!
Friday, March 30. 2007
 Like the Great Wall of China, it is also my dream to see in person the famous Taj Mahal in India. This is a known monument in Agra during the reign of Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of her wife. Accordingly, Taj Mahal is considered as the finest example of Mughal architecture. This is a style that combines elements of Indian, Persian architecture and Turkish architecture. And that dream has become a reality when finally I landed on Taj Mahal. Equipped with my camera, I took pictures of its garden. The Taj Mahal garden measures 320 m × 300 m and is divided into four parts. Each part is further divided into 16 flower beds by raised pathways.
I also took a photo of the monument front view. I took a picture of the front view that is being reflected on the pool. The entrance is no tan exemption, too. It is made up primarily of red sandstones. The style is reminiscent of that of Mughal architecture of earlier emperors. Also, it makes use of bas-relief and pietra dura (inlaid) decorations with floral motifs. I was so amazed with the vaulted ceilings and walls with different geometric designs. Up to now, I still can't believe that I was able to see Taj Mahal and its great architectural designs.
Thursday, March 29. 2007
My ultimate dream is to tour every country in the world. There are a number of countries that I have visited already but I am not yet satisfied. Well, that's the nature of man, right? In those countries that I have gone, I always manage to get pictures of its beautiful sceneries and landmarks. Travelling is something that makes me smile. What's good about it is that you are not only exposed to other places but most of all, you are able to know the culture and traditions of these people.
The last time I had a trip was in a South African community, my heart bleed for the children who are suffering from hunger and poverty. It makes me realize that we have to be conscious of the needs of other less fortunate people rather than our vices and luxuries. We have to realize that we can do something aside from buying our expensive clothes, dining to first-class restaurants, and spending our money. we should also realize that there are other people who needs help and we can do something about them. That is I guess one of the most important trip that I have made. Because I have realized many things about our world. yes, it is true that we are blessed with the most beautiful environment but we are also lorded with problems that must addressed as soon as possible.
Sunday, March 25. 2007
 I would never forget my visit to Hongkong Disneyland. I am not a child anymore but still the child in me pushes myself to go to places for kids. It's a good thing I have friends to accompany me. Like me, they were very curious of this Disneyland in Asia. They wanted to know how it differs with the Disneyland that we have here in the United States.
The Hongkong Government and Walt Disney Company constructed the Hong Kong Disneyland Resort. This latest attraction in Asia was opened last September 12, 2005. Upon our arrival, I was able to see a very familiar figure, of course that's Mickey Mouse. We toured the different areas of the place. They include the theme park where we posed as kids. Well, we slept for several nights in their hotel, Disneyland Hotel. Some of my friends stayed at Disney's Hollywood Hotel. There are also dining facilities that offer variety of foods. On our second night, we watched a show of amazing performers from different parts of the world.
I really enjoyed my vacation in Hong Kong. Of course, I did not forgot to take pictures using my camera and my camera-equipped cellular phone. My next destination is Dubailand, well probably it will take some years because it has yet to open.
Saturday, March 24. 2007
One of my dreams in life was to be able to land to the famous Great Wall of China. I consider it as my ultimate reason to visit an amazing country like China. This powerful structure that was built from the third century up to the seventeenth century served as protection for the different dynasties against Mongols, Turkics, and other nomadic groups. This wall measures 6,352 km from Shanhai Pass on the Bohai Sea in the east to Lop Nur in the southeastern portion of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. The Great Wall of China is also considers as one of the Seven Medieval Wonders of the World and was made as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987. There is a saying that was popularized by Mao Zedong. According to him, you cannot consider yourself a real man if you haven't climbed this known structure.
Probably, this is one of the reasons I really want to traverse this Great Wall of China. The Great Wall of China for me is a symbol of man's creativity and determination. It symbolizes strength and power that no one can destroy. It's a proof that once we put our minds to something, we can definitely achieve our goal. Right now, climbing this known wall is still a dream but i know in my mind that someday this dream will become a reality.
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Holiday Travel Comments
Sun, 22.10.2006 12:36
We're planning to go to Walt Disney Florida but I'll have to save for several months.
Sun, 22.10.2006 12:35
I just love the rides. It's amazing. You should save for this trip!
Fri, 20.10.2006 09:47
There is a collection of sunglasses that has a variety of colors, vibrant designs, fashionable, elegant, and stylish. [...]
Fri, 20.10.2006 09:44
Grip is a friendly song ripper that allows you to convert it to aif, wav, flac, ogg, aac, mp4, mp3, and other formats. [...]
Fri, 20.10.2006 09:43
The 6-in-1 multi-tool has two sets that include a wood saw, bottle or can opener, needle-nose pliers, point knife, wire [...]
Fri, 20.10.2006 07:04
The last time I've been there, we visited the Buddhist temples. Bangkok is rich with spritual and cutural heritage at [...]
Fri, 20.10.2006 07:04
What's also lovely in Bangkok is their craft for bags and jewelry. They love bead works and colors.
Thu, 12.10.2006 09:16
It's a beautiful tower in New York City. Aside from being first-class, it has great architectural designs.
Thu, 12.10.2006 09:16
It must cost a fortune. I've heard you can spot Pierce Brosnan as a regular client.
Sun, 08.10.2006 17:50
What's the good thing about beer festival is that you'll get to taste it for free and you get to enjoy its variety. [...]
Sun, 08.10.2006 17:49
What's the good thing about beer festival is that you'll get to taste it for free and you get to enjoy its variety. [...]
Sun, 08.10.2006 14:44
My marriage is dull and boring. But I deeply love my wife. Because even if it's not a promise of heaven and adventure, [...]
Sun, 08.10.2006 09:04
Correct, just remember it. That's what we need.
Sun, 08.10.2006 09:03
Sometimes, we just lack the courage to face the changes that we slowly grow apart as partners. -Pio
Wed, 04.10.2006 11:20
The Inside Passage is a better choice for a cruise if you really want to discover what you haven't seen in Alaska. It's [...]