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A golden anniversary celebration made special at Belmont Hotel Manila

Celebrating my parents 50th anniversary had us travel from Iloilo to the cool and laidback charm of Baguio then to the cosmopolitan vibes of Manila.   In the mountain city of Baguio, we had an enjoyable time horseback riding at Wright Park, rowing the swan boat ride at Burnham Park, "selfie-ing" at Lions Head. We adored the breathtaking views from Mirador Hill and Mines View Park, the historical tour at The Mansion, shopping at strawberry farm in La Trinidad and had a "snowy" Alpine Christmas at Baguio Country Club. ( Thanks Doc Ely ) We enjoyed eating - fresh strawberries,  some local delicacy called pinipikan , food finds at the Session Road Sunday market and  "everything" at the night market. We also lined up for the favorite specialties at  Good Taste, big servings at Grumpy Joe, desserts at Vizco’s and healthy goodness at Oh My Gulay, among others. Down in the metro, we visited relatives in Cavite for a mini reunion, wandered and dined at IKEA, felt c...
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Welcome to World of Frozen: A Complete Travel Experience in Arendelle inspired by Nordic Culture

Welcome to World of Frozen,  the world’s first and largest  “Frozen” themed land!  You are about to experience the kingdom of Arendelle, a must-visit travel destination and the enchanting hometown of Queen Anna and Elsa, first-hand. World of Frozen at Hong Kong Disneyland Resort is inspired by the Walt Disney Animation Studios films, “Frozen” and “Frozen 2” and will transport guests into many familiar cinematic scenes. As soon as guests step into World of Frozen, they will hear the enchanting melodies of the "Frozen" films playing throughout the land.  The music is re-arranged specially for World  of Frozen, weaving soulful and orchestral music together. Not only will guests be able to explore architecture inspired by traditional Nordic culture, they can also indulge in delicious cuisine and collect unique souvenirs.  Moreover, they can enjoy three highlighted attractions and entertainment experiences. For sure it will provide a uniquely immersive and extra...
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Iloilo Ancestral Houses: Camiña Balay nga Bato in Arevalo

Heritage and gastronomy are two of Iloilo’s main attractions and one can experience both in just one setting – at the Camiña Balay nga Bato.  A LIVING MUSEUM “Welcome and make yourselves feel at home” greets Luth Camiña. With husband Gerard, the couple are among the 4th generation descendants of the Avanceñas, and call this heritage house their home. It took them more than a decade to renovate the structure from its worn out state. “The old house had sawali (bamboo weavings) for ceiling which we replaced with pressed tin sheets as it was a fire hazard” reveals Ms Luth. “We just retained some original structures like the windows with ventanillas (air vents), the escalera (ladder-like stairs) and the stilt-like pillars on the ground floor.”  Eugene Jamerlan, who worked with the Camiñas in the restoration explains that the number of these pillars was a status symbol back in the 19th century. “This house has a total of 24 pillars making the household among the...
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