Taipei, the Capital of the Other China

Taipei, the capital of Taiwan, is located in the north of Formosa Island. It is a bustling city which a personality of its own. Striving to be recognized as part of China, Taipei has remained steadfast despite threats from mainland China.

In a way, Taipei can be considered as a city of contrasts. Just like any other city in the island-nation as well as their counterparts in the People's Republic of China, the old structures co-exist with the modern buildings.

Surely, taxis are everywhere in Taipei but the most effective mode of transportation for both the locals and tourists is the MRT. The city's train system caters to the hundreds of thousands of people taking the daily commute to and from offices and for tourists to roam around the city.

Just like in mainland China, Taipei also boasts of big hotels with grandiose lobbies. Accommodation prices are reasonable enough for tourists to afford a 4-night stay. Rooms are spacious and food is delicious.

The different night markets and Taipei 101 are must-go places when you are in Taipei. These are the places where most tourists can be found. A lot of souvenirs can be bought in these tourist traps. Prices are slightly more expensive as compared to other Asian cities.

Buddhism is the religion being practiced not only in Taipei but in the whole of Taiwan. Chinese culture is very evident whether in the art scene or in temples.

With the easing of visa requirements for Filipinos, Taipei is one favorite city to visit not only due to its proximity to the Philippines but also for the cultural experience that the city offers. Taipei is not just another city of another China. It is a city worth exploring.

Baguio City: Still the Summer Capital of the Philippines

With my recent trip to the City of Pines, Baguio remains the undisputed summer capital of the Philippines. Its cold weather is perfect for a getaway especially by families trying to escape the humid temperature in the different parts of the country.

The proper management of the local government executives bring to fore a disciplined citizenry. Despite the proliferation of establishments that cater to the needs of its people and the city's visitors, Baguio City is an enclave conducive for resting.

Pine trees are a common sight in the city. One can still smell the scent of pine in the environs of Baguio. Another common sight is the Baguio City Cathedral where catholic devotees flock even on ordinary days.

Going around the city is easy. Taxis are all over and are mostly the all-utility vehicle types. Jeepneys are also available to those who go for cheaper fare. Some establishments and tourist areas can also be reached by feet but the high altitude makes the young and old alike to take the available public transportations that ply the city.

Burnham Park and The Mansion are the most common tourist destinations in the city. Nowadays, there are other places worth visiting like the Diplomat Hotel, the studio of national artist Ben Cabrera also known as BenCab, the workshop of film director Kidlat Tahimik, etc.

Since Baguio City is frequently visited by local and foreign tourists, accommodations can be found within the city limits as well as inside Camp John Hay from prices ranging from the affordable and those that cater to the affluent.

The cold weather doesn't dampen the spirit of the visitors for Baguio City offers a lot to be desired and to go back to. It has remained and still the summer capital of the Philippines.

A Visit to Genting Highlands Malaysia

Genting Highlands is a resort in the mountains of Pahang, Malaysia. It is a 2-hour drive from Kuala Lumpur and boasts of the best amenities that a world-class resort can offer. The trek to the said resort is worth the drive.

On the way to the top, you can stop by the Genting Highlands Premium Outlets where you can shop to your heart's desire. There are big-named brands as well as those that can easily be reached by an ordinary person. With the many stores in the said outlet, you might forget that the main reason you're there is because you want to reach the summit where the fun begins.

From the premium outlets, you may go the the highlands resort via cable car or you may bring your car along. Of course, we opted for the former. When you travel, experience what you cannot in your country. That's what we did.

Once you reach the top, you will be amazed at how beautiful it was made for the people to enjoy. Part of the welcome to its visitors is a superb light dance at the lobby of the mall. Everyone was in awe at watching the said show. Theme portions of its mall can be seen inside.

Restaurants and souvenir shopping areas also abound. There are places for expensive stuff but there are also places for those on a budget.

Two of the most prominent hotels in Genting Highlands are Hotel Seri and Resorts World although there are other hotels in the area. These two are the most popular in terms of bookings when people decide to stay there.

When visiting mainland Malaysia, it is worth going to Genting Highlands. It is a tourist paradise, a shopping haven and a high roller's delight. With all the places to go around to and the big number of tourists who go there, you will forget that you are in Malaysia.

I promise you, it's worth the trip.

Spark Samar!

Samar province is located in Samar island in Eastern Visayas (Region 8) which is composed of three provinces namely: Samar, Northern Samar and Eastern Samar. Sometimes, it is called Western Samar but a law states that it shall onlyt be called Samar. Its capital is Catbalogan City and is represented by two representatives in Congress.

Samar is home to one of the most diverse flora and fauna in the Philippines. It is home to several endemic species that can only be found in the forests of the province. It is also my home having been born in Catbalogan.

The province is blessed with natural resources that are for the books. Part of the Samar Natural Park is in Samar. The said park encompasses the three Samar provinces and is very much protected.

The Sohoton Natural Park in Basey and the Lulugayan Falls in Calbiga are must-see places when you visit the province. Bills are in place in the House of Representatives to also protect these natural tourism areas.

Aside from the sea water that abound, there are also inland rivers and rapids which is enticing to extreme sports lovers. So far, these areas are well-maintained and the crystal clear water can attest to the good maintenance made by the local government units.

Education is very important to the people of the Samar. Several educational institutions cater to the youth. Samar State University has several campuses in the province. Other government schools are also in the other cities and municipalities of Samar as well as private schools such as Samar College.

Samar can be reached through the Daniel Z. Romualdez Airport in Tacloban City or through the Calbayog City Airport. Most of its people take the bus from Metro Manila. With the Spark Samar campaign initiated by the provincial government, other tourists from the different provinces take the bus from nearby Mindanao and other Visayas provinces. There are also ferries that ply the Calbayog-Cebu route.

For years, Samar has struggled to be a major player in the country's tourism industry. In a few years, Samar will be in the mainstream of tourist attractions that the Philippines can offer. As a Samarnon, I just hope that tourism will not spoil our beloved province. It's time for Samar to SPARK!