Out of Town Blog

A few frequent travelers and backpackers have already proven that it’s possible to travel to far flung vacation spots with little budget. But for most of us, it does take some serious dollars to enjoy some of our planned and most awaited vacation. But why spend more when there are steps you can take that could significantly cut your travel expenses?

Here are ways you can save on your travel plans:

Do not be shy about being an early bird.
There are plenty of deals that you can avail if you’re proactive enough. Airlines, shipping companies and travel agents are more than happy to give you a nice discount if you call them up and book your trip in advance.

Kite Boarding in Boracay

You’ll usually find these deals on the companies’ websites or you could get in touch with your travel agent and ask what types of schemes are available to help you save money on your travel plans.

If you’re traveling abroad, booking in advance will also mean great savings for you. Most airlines begin offering cheap seats four to six months ahead, so there’s no need to wait long.

Many hotels also offer this money-saving scheme. The earlier you book your stay, the bigger your discount. Read the rest of this entry »

CdeO Foundation Inc. recently announced that there will be new and exciting events which will be added in the upcoming Kagay-an Festival 2009. This year, tourist and residents of Cagayan de Oro City have more colorful and exciting celebration to expect.

“Kagay-an Festival”- Cagayan de Oro City’s main fiesta attraction in honor to patron Saint Augustine, was formally launched last week by the Promote CdeO Foundation, Inc. led by its president Ruben Vegafria, in coordination with the City Tourism Board chaired by Ms. Josie Aliñabon and the City Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office headed by Ms. Imma Rae D. Gatuslao.

The new core events are:

“Garbo sa Oro 2009: Outstanding Kagay-anons”- a recognition of exceptional Kagay-anons who brought honor and pride to the city which will be held at the Rodelsa Hall, Liceo de Cagayan University on August 28; “Serenata at the Park” at Kiosko Kagawasan in Divisoria on August 28 and the “Regional Trade Fair 2009″, a wide array of display and selling of locally-made products of the region based on “One-Town, One-Product” (OTOP) concept to be staged at the Limketkai Rotunda from August 20 to August 28.

Read the rest of this entry »

The Western Visayas regional office of Department of Tourism recently released a travel inspired coffee table book titled “Experience the Magic of Western Visayas in the Philippines” showcasing the various travel destinations in the region.

The said coffee table book is up for “distribution to international markets, local travel agents, tour operators and embassies so that they will have an idea of what Western Visayas is all about.”

Boracay Island

The publication introduces, among others, heritage houses or the world heritage site in Iloilo, outdoor sports, local cuisine and other delicacies and exotic fabrics. Read the rest of this entry »

The Department of Tourism (DOT) through the Philippine Convention and Visitors Corporation (PCVC) will spearhead this years Philippine Travel Exchange (PHITEX ‘09) which will be held at the SMX Convention Center in Mall of Asia on September 02-04, 2009.

PHITEX is an annual travel marketing event to strengthen the country’s tourism brand image and to encourage local and foreign participants to promote affordable and competitive Philippine tour packages.

Mount Pinatubo

The main component of PHITEX is the Travel Exchange or (TRAVEX), whereby Sellers of Philippine tourism products meet up with international tour operators in one-on-one scheduled business appointments.

PHITEX provides a unique venue for buyers from all over the world to meet with Philippine tourism players and be introduced to a whole range of leisure and adventure activities, including resort holiday breaks, diving, glamping (camping luxury-style), birdwatching, spa and wellness, trekking, and golf. It takes place over a period of two days and is followed by specially-designed post tour programs and site inspection visits to some of the country’s top tourist destinations. Read the rest of this entry »

My Nikon D90 DSLR camera is probably one of the most expensive gadgets that i have bought from the money I earned from blogging. Investing in photography gadgets are really expensive that’s why Its important that you choose the right accessory with safety features.

While covering the Aliwan Fiesta couple of months back, A fellow travel photographer shared that his friend’s camera was snatched while inside a passenger jeepney near TM Kalaw. The camera strap was slashed and in just a snap her camera was gone.

Pacsafe Camera Strap

Some prefer to put their dslr camera inside their bag while commuting but I find it very interesting when I wear it on my neck while taking street photos, landmarks and human portraits while inside a private car or passenger vehicles. Read the rest of this entry »

Ive been traveling around the Philippines for quite a while now and on each travel, I met several types of tour guides. Some are friendly, informative and helpful but some tour guides will just tell you where you are without giving you any background or historical significance of the place. eg. We are now in Rizal Park.. (Ummm I know right? LOL)

A couple of weeks back, I joined a tour of Pasig River and Binondo during the launch of the Philippine Travel Mart 2009.

Binondo Tour

I met several members of Mabuhay Guides and they were really good. They are so informative and each information were delivered with a smile. Ive been wanting to become a tour guide and share my knowledge about our countries premier destinations but too late, I learned about the Mabuhay Guide training a week after they close the application and screening process.

Hopefully they will train new guides that will join their team… I will apply… Hopefully soon:)