One of the most incredible experiences that I’ve had in the Philippines, and perhaps across all of my travels, is swimming with whale sharks in Southern Leyte. Known as tiki-tiki in the local language, these gentle giants have been coming to feed off the shores of Pintuyan for as long as anyone can remember. Recently, Pintuyan… Read More Swimming with the Whale Sharks in Pintuyan, Leyte | Philippines
Manila often serves as a necessary stop for backpackers heading to the Philippines’ idyllic islands. While many view it as unappealing, the city offers unique experiences within its chaos. Key attractions include Intramuros, Rizal Park, street food in Quiapo, and the vibrant nightlife of Makati, making it worth exploring the urban environment.… Read More The Ultimate Backpacker’s Travel Guide to Manila | The Philippines
The Philippines is an often-overlooked stop on many South East Asia backpacking itineraries. It’s understandable, as its geography can make it a much more challenging country to travel through than Thailand or Vietnam. Those who accept that challenge are rewarded with pristine landscapes and a warm, welcoming culture. Backpacking the Philippines is a deep dive… Read More The Backpacker’s Crash Course Guide to Traveling the Philippines
As I was traveling through my home country of the Philippines, I decided to make the journey up to one of our most iconic living legends, Apo Whang-Od. This journey was important to me for a few reasons. I was born in the Philippines, but immigrated to the U.S. when I was young. I have… Read More Visiting Apo Whang-Od, The World’s Oldest Tattoo Artist | Philippines
Here we goooo!!! It’s time for my first group trip to South East Asia, and we’ll be going to a place particularly dear to me. That’s right. I’m going back to my home country and taking a group of y’all with me to immerse ourselves in the sunshine and karaoke culture of the Philippines. Grab… Read More We’re Going to The Philippines! May 2023 Group Trip
Earlier today, I was craving some grasshoppers. No, I’m not pregnant but I’ll admit that is a weird sentence that I never expected to write out. So one time, I was in Puebla, Mexico when this adorable old lady selling not-so-adorable snacks coaxed me into trying a sample of her wares. She gave me a… Read More The Top 10 Weirdest Things I’ve Ever Put In My Mouth
The effect that Instagram has had on travel and tourism is kind of weird. I was born three hours away from Tablas. I spent years of my life living close by without ever hearing of the island. Yet, my South African friend who had never even been to the Philippines was adamant that we go.… Read More The Ultimate Guide To Tablas: A Hidden Gem of the Philippines
This was my first Ibajay Ati-Ati in over twenty years, a triumphant return to my birthplace. A return that gave me so much insight on my roots, family ties, and the insatiable desire to always be the last man dancing. It was an ear-splitting, booty-shaking, lechon-feasting fiesta that only Filipinos could fathom. A town of… Read More The Best Of Ibajay Ati-Ati Festival | Photo Gallery
The province of Aklan on the Philippine island of Panay is known internationally as the home of and gateway to Boracay. The Philippines’ most famous paradise island is understandably a much-desired holiday spot, with its crystal clear blue waters and powdery white sand spanning kilometers of beachfront. However, those who go from Kalibo or Caticlan… Read More Hiking Mount Balinsayaw in Aklan, Philippines
24 years ago, I was born in a little town about an hour away from the bustling town of Kalibo. My family moved to the United States shortly after. 24 years later, I came home to make it to one of the world’s most unique and colorful festivals. Every January, the Mother of all Philippine… Read More 2019 Kalibo Ati-Atihan Festival Gallery