I wasn’t born yet during the Marcos regime but stories have of course reached me through history lessons and personal discussions among family, friends and colleagues. What I didn’t know, however, is that there existed a Malacañang of the North, located in Marcos’ Ilocandia (Ilocos) stronghold, apart from the President’s Mansion in Baguio. And that, behind the imposing facade of the Malacañang of the North awaits in peace and serenity the Paoay Lake. It’s probably one of the biggest man-made lakes…ever. The Paoay Lake was really a beautiful sight and it was really calming and relaxing, just staring blankly at it. I recently watched a video on the Paoay Lake Regatta happening in June — maybe something for you and me to see! It was in 2011 since I last set foot in Ilocos Norte. Perhaps it’s time to return!>
Bordered by the Arabian Sea, Kashid Beach is a popular destination, especially from weekend escapists of Mumbai. It’s about 3 hours from Mumbai, with more than 90kms of plains, mountains and valleys to be seen along the way. Apart from the beach, Alibag is also popular for its forts and some temples. It’s kind of a hillside or hilly area so the weather is cold and quite nice. We went there on July 2012 (my good friend Sravan from CS invited me to their company team thing) and it was awesome! Kashid beach itself is nice enough, especially when you’re looking forward to some playtime with the waves. Be warned, however, that you might need a massage session after! The photo I chose for Kashid beach is actually one of the most photographed scenes and very recognizable to Indian travelers and nature trippers. If you want to see more photos and read more about our playtime at Kashid beach, visit my blog on living in India. 🙂 >
Like most Filipinos, the first international travel I did was in Singapore, back in 2010. It was mostly a choice of Singapore, Bangkok or Hong Kong at the time. And since going to Singapore means easy access and a side trip to Kuala Lumpur, the choice was clear. Hehe 🙂 Clarke Quay in Singapore is probably one of its most photographed landmarks, especially from the angle where the Merlion, Singapore’s well-known symbol, stands in wait to greet the travelers. This photo, however, was taken while crossing the fascinating double helix / DNA bridge connecting the area of the Singapore Flyer and Marina Bay Sands. In late 2011, which was when I took it, the helix bridge was already built. Either way and either angle, Clarke Quay is such a sight both at daytime, with it’s clean and calm waters and floating tour boats, and night time, with the shining lights and bustling night life. If you thrive in the urban jungle but would at times seek the comfort of calm water scenes, Clarke Quay is a must-visit place whenever in Singapore! >
Hyderabad is often called the city of palaces and the Andhra Pradesh High Court, sitting by the south bank of the Musi River, is an impressive structure that merits attention like all the other palaces in the “old city”. Coming from a country where the only palace is the seat of Presidential Power and where historical buildings are more or less not our best tourist selling point, I was amazed at the number of palaces you can just go and enter in at Hyderabad and Secunderabad. While the High Court also had limited entry, it didn’t stop us (me and my couchsurfing host) to get photos from the outside. When we got tired, we took photos from the Naya Pul bridge (close by and walkable). We spent some time looking over the Musi River, and enjoying the red orange reflection while looking out for a flock of birds flying by. It’s a cool place to be in especially for sunset junkies like you and me!>
I like old things and places. Whenever I travel, especially to different countries, old temples and buildings as well as national and historical museums are on the list of places that I must visit. So, imagine my leap of joy while biking (yep, pedal bicycle!) around the Angkor Archaeological Park in Siem Reap! No, it wasn’t like Angelina Jolie or Indiana Jones kind of exploring but still, Julian (the old Spanish photographer-who lives in Ireland-and works as cargo plane customer service specialist whom I’ve met in Phuket) and I had fun! Sadly, Julian departed the night before and en route to our favorite food stall inside the Angkor Archaeological Park, I passed by this group of towers opposite to the Terrace of the Elephants. Called Prasat Suor Prat, these 12 identical towers are believed to may have been built post-Bayon era, aka around 11th century (it’s a good thing I kept my free Angkor Archaeological Park temple guidebook). Made of laterite and sandstone, the Prasat Suor Prat was said to function as a “lock-up” cell for parties involved in a “legal dispute and matters of criminal justice”. After a few days of being confined in site the Prasat Suor Prat, the one who ends up sick is declared the losing party, “guilty by divine decree”. Hmmmm. Haha 🙂 I didn’t get the chance to see the towers up close so if you get to, please let me know if the Prsat Suor Prat makes you feel the divine presence as well!>
Life is short so take a leap of faith. Let’s wander, explore and discover. Come and journey with me.
The Diarist Wanders 