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So I'm coming home to you: Cold & Homey Escapade

  Once again, I’ve experienced the cold whispers of the Summer Capital of the Philippines , Baguio City! Well, I am still quite unsure why it was known for that, Baguio is so cold and summer refers to hot and tropical weather. I still don’t get it! Anyway, it offers the perfect escape from the heart and hustle of urban life. The fresh mountain air, pine-lined roads, and charming ambiance make it a favorite destination for travelers year-round. During my recent visit, I rediscovered not just the beauty of Baguio, but also a few unexpected joys that made the trip unforgettable. One of my favorite experiences was riding the go-karts at Burnham Park. I honestly didn’t expect to have that much fun, but once I got behind the wheel, I couldn’t stop smiling as I was too overjoyed in competing with my other cousins who I am with on this trip. The mix of light-hearted competition and the breeze on my face as I zoomed along the path was absolutely exhilarating. It brought out the inner child ...
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And I find myself coming back: Revisiting the heart of Ilocos Sur!

  Feels good to be back again. Returning to Ilocos Sur after so many years felt like stepping into a cherished memory. I first visited this beautiful province as a little girl with my mom, and it was one of our most special trips together. The cobblestone streets of Vigan, the rustic charm of ancestral houses, and the scent of longganisa and empanada in the morning air all brought back flashes of laughter, hand-in-hand strolls, and moments that still warm my heart. Coming back now feels like opening an old photo album. Although, only this time, I’m making new memories with a different set of loved ones. This trip, I’m joined by my cousins, aunt, and uncle, and while the faces beside me have changed, the beauty of Ilocos hasn't. There's something grounding and comforting about being back in a place that once held so much meaning. We spent time enjoying the iconic windmills of Bangui, their slow, giant rotations almost hypnotic against the sky. It’s a different feeling now and le...
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Why Your Mind Needs a Vacation: The Mental Health Benefits of Traveling

Traveling is more than just a break from the daily grind; it's a powerful tool for enhancing mental well-being. Whether it's a weekend getaway or an adventure across the globe, stepping away from the familiar can offer a fresh perspective, reduce stress, and foster personal growth. In this blog, we'll explore the mental health benefits of traveling and why it should be considered an essential part of your self-care routine. Let’s face it—life can get a little too much sometimes. Deadlines, group chats blowing up, daily commutes, laundry that mysteriously multiplies… it’s a lot. That’s why every now and then, your brain deserves a passport and a break. Traveling isn’t just about sightseeing or racking up Instagram content (though we love that too)—it’s actually amazing for your mental health. Here’s why taking a trip is like a spa day for your mind. 1. A Change of Scenery = A Change of Mindset Ever noticed how your worries seem to shrink when you're staring at the oce...
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Fit While You Fly: How Traveling Keeps You Moving (Without Hitting the Gym)

  Let’s be real—when people think of “staying fit,” they often picture treadmills, workout plans, or strict routines. But what if I told you that simply traveling could be one of the most fun (and sneaky) ways to stay active? Yup! Traveling keeps you moving, sweating, and smiling—all without stepping foot in a gym. So, if you're someone who dreads push-ups but loves passport stamps, this one's for you. 1. Walk It Out (You’re Already Doing It!) When you're in a new city, walking becomes your superpower. Whether you're strolling through Parisian streets, exploring Kyoto temples, or hunting for the best local food spot in Cebu, you’re burning calories without even noticing . Forget the elevator—travelers naturally take more steps every day just by being curious. Bonus tip: Skip the Uber. Walk or rent a bike. Your legs (and your wallet) will thank you! 2. Adventures = Exercise in Disguise Let’s talk about all the cool stuff you end up doing on trips that secretly count as...
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A Cozy, Comfy Cafè in Balic Balic: Cilab Lnm

  Last, but definitely not the least—coming strongly for the number 1 spot, it’s CILAB LNM! If you want a cozy and comfy place to grab your coffee, this is the best place to be. Cilab Lnm is a cafè located in G. Tuazon St., Sampaloc, Manila around the Balic-Balic area. We happened to stumble upon it as we find a grooming center for our dog. Despite its location and exterior, their coffee and pastry prices are actually very affordable—especially for students, like us! It’s one of the things that I love about Cilab. From hot coffees, to iced ones, and even frappuccinos, their prices only range from ₱80 to ₱160 for 14 oz and 20 oz—how sulit ! Despite their affordable prices, I can assure you—their coffee tastes amazing. Tinipid ? Sorry, that’s just not in Cilab Lnm’s vocabulary. But, wait! There’s more—their shop hours are very flexible too. They are open daily with 2 PM as their opening time and 11 PM or 12 AM as their closing. And, based on experience, they allow you to stay in thei...
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A Kasual yet Klassy Place for Kofi: Klasiks Kitchen x Kafe

  Running for a close and tight spot for the best and number 1 coffee, it’s KLASIKS KITCHEN X KAFE. Looking for a perfect hangout place with your friends? Even with your family? This will welcome you with open arms. Klasiks Kitchen x Kafe is a cafè located in Alvarez St., Sta. Cruz, Manila. I was able to visit this place because of my dear friend. The place may look intimidating at first, yet they actually sell affordable drinks too! Ever since I got to know this place, it has become one of my go-to cafè near our university. Like Hoppers Cafe, the prices are very considerate of students—especially for broke college students like me! The prices range from ₱95 to ₱130 for 12 oz and 22 oz. This is why it’s my second go-to cafè. But of course, even with the cheap prices, their coffee definitely doesn’t taste like its price. Their drinks are definitely a must-try! Want more? I’ll share more! Klasiks is also a mix of three businesses, therefore they also have delicious pastries and food ...
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A Hidden yet Home-y Nook: Hoppers Cafe

  Entering our list of the top three best underrated coffee shops in the third spot, it’s the HOPPERS CAFE! If you’re looking for a space for yourself or with someone special, then this place is a must-try for you! Hoppers Cafe is a cafè located in Nicanor Reyes St., Sampaloc, Manila. I was walking around Morayta to find a new place to hangout in, and thankfully, I saw this—sitting right at the corner, occupying a small space of a building’s ground floor. At first, I was skeptical. They had books and I looked at the cafè’s exterior and interior. I thought about their prices and expected them to be in the expensive range. Yet, I was surprised. The prices are very student and budget-friendly! Their prices range from ₱40 to ₱170 for 12 oz to 16 oz for all drinks available. This has become me and my partner’s hidden place because for me, it’s a perfect spot for couples! Thus, we can vouch for their great coffee and also their pastries. Solid! —as my boyfriend said. A little more info a...
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