A Look at Some of the Latest Cruise Offers

If the changing of the seasons has got you thinking of your next holiday already then it is well worth taking a sneaky look at some of the latest cruise offers that are being made available by all the familiar names throughout the industry. You can spend a week cruising around the western Mediterranean with Royal Caribbean for just short of £650 per person, or push the proverbial boat out a little further and for under a thousand pounds take on a 20-night escape around the same seas with P&O Cruises.

The Norwegian Cruise Line has an excursion around Venice and the Aegean Sea lined up with prices there comfortably under a thousand pounds per person. Meanwhile, if it's the Caribbean or bust as far as your cruise experiences are concerned, you are again well catered to, with virtually all of the top names in cruise holiday provision taking in the best sights and sites around the region at various times over the coming months. Perhaps you're best bet if you're hoping to set off from the UK is to check out the latest offers on a P&O cruise, which in many cases will depart from Southampton. 

The good news in general though if you can hardly wait a moment longer for the chance to soak up some sun and to leave you worries behind, is that there are last minute cruise packages being made available online with considerable regularity right now. Indeed, you really wont need to look all that hard to find something to suit your needs precisely even if you're booking on a bit of a whim. And let's face it, wherever you end up, it is likely to be the kind of place that's well worth visiting otherwise it wouldn't have made its way on to the cruise itinerary in the first place.

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Travel Entrepreneur Is Set To Complete All Seven Continents With Young Daughter

Travel entrepreneur RJ Samson and his 12-year-old daughter Lizzie’s travel story is a unique one. The US-based Lizzie, who lives with her mom, began traveling alone at the tender age of eight to the Philippines, and has already been to six continents by the age of 12.

Before Lizzie turns 13, the father and daughter tandem will make a trip to Australia to complete the seven continents, followed by a cruise to the Antarctic.

“Lizzie and I are definitely excited about this trip. We’ve had such a wonderful time traveling around the world, just the two of us, and we can’t wait for our next adventure,” says RJ, who runs a travel company called iTraveler Asia.

While RJ and Lizzie’s father-daughter bonding is far from ordinary, they have a routine for each trip. “Since Lizzie is based in the United States, we’d meet up at the airport of our destination and take it from there,” explains RJ.The pair doesn’t believe in setting itineraries without getting a feel of the place first, so they do the planning when they get to their destination.

    Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

RJ shares that Lizzie likes to explore new places and if it’s the first time they’re visiting, they first check out the landmarks and find new experiences along the way.“Most of the time, we try to find kid-friendly spots,” he says.

Having been to Asia, Europe, the Middle East, North America, South America and Africa, Lizzie has her favorites. “I like Singapore because there are a lot of places to go and do there while South Africa is another favorite because of the wildlife.” RJ adds, “Lizzie has also taken a liking to Michelin star restaurants which we make sure that we visit on each trip.”

To travel the world is but a fantasy for many, but RJ and his daughter are living the dream. Yet for RJ, while traveling to exotic destinations is certainly a thrill, it’s the moments spent with Lizzie that make the trips worthwhile.

“I always tell her that she’s lucky because I wasn’t able to travel as a child,” says RJ, who is proud that his daughter’s first travel experience was to the Philippines. “Traveling alone has made her independent and it has built a special relationship for us even if we don’t see each other on a regular basis. Traveling brings us together, and that is priceless.”

Notre Dame, Paris

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Caritas Manila Continues Relief Efforts for Flood Victims

For almost a week now, Caritas Manila continues with its relief efforts for the thousands of victims of flooding in Metro Manila.

Caritas Manila’s Damayan, the relief assistance and emergency program of the Church as of August 15, 2012 has provided relief assistance to 20, 444 families in the parishes under the Archdiocese of Manila and Dioceses of Caloocan,Cubao, Pasig, Antipolo, and Malolos.

Caritas Manila so far has raised Php 2,892,635 In-Cash donations and Php. 534,618 In- Kind donations from individuals, organizations and parishes for the flood victims.

Metro Manila and other parts of Luzon will still continue to experience intermittent rains according to the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC).

____________________________________________

For Donations in kind, please call Caritas Manila at telephone numbers 5620020 up to 25 local 22 to 24.(please see attached list)

For Cash Donations, you may deposit to:

Account Name: Caritas Manila, Inc.

Peso Bank Savings Account:

BPI S/A 3063-5357-01

BDO S/A 5600-45905

Metrobank S/A 175-3-17506954-3

UnionBank C/A 00-030-001227-5

Dollar Savings Account:

Account Name: Caritas Manila, Inc.

BPI Dollar Account: 003064-0033-55

PNB Dollar Account: 252-703687-1

For questions and comments please feel free to contact our Mr. Joseph G. Navarro, PR, Communication and Events Officer at numbers 5620020 loc. 13 or 0916-396-9123

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Take to the Waters: Learn to Sail in 2013

Europe offers so much for the avid traveller nowadays – no matter what destination is chosen, you will be sure to find something that suits both you and your budget. Water can be a powerful thing and there’s nothing better than feeling in control at sea. Enrolling on any of the available sailing courses can teach you the basics and the Greek Ionians can be a perfect backdrop for your tuition. 

Once you have mastered the ways of the seaman, cheap Lake Garda holidays can encourage you to try something different to the average beach panoramas for your yachting expedition. Opt for any of the resorts dotted along the shoreline and you will never be far from the water’s edge where your flotilla or yacht could await you.

The concept of learning to sail is a bit of a daunting one, but once you have been taught the basics, you will realise it’s not as hard as it seems. Spend some of your holiday with qualified sailing instructors and it’ll be almost like riding a bike – a skill you will never forget.

Perfect for families with older children, sailing courses can teach you navigation and seamanship skills as well as being a great, fun experience. You could learn to sail in as little as a week which will set you in good stead for any forthcoming voyages.

The Greek Ionian is a great place for the novice sailor as well as the experienced seamen. Nidri, a base in the southern Ionian Sea, is a perfect place to start, offering a wide range of sailing courses for varying competencies.

Be sure to absorb the awe inspiring scenery whilst you learn to sail. Take a dip in the surrounding waters to cool off and relax onboard, catching the sun’s rays. Whatever you decide, you can be sure to trust in the qualified yachtsmen who will teach you a skill you can use in future endeavours.

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Huling Hirit sa Tag-init: Mainit Hotspring and Pangyan Falls

It's been a while since I posted on the places that I visited. Before the summer ends, we have decided together with my friends to visit the Hot spring and the Falls located at Brgy. Don Mariano Marcos, Lupon, Davao Oriental. 

Last time that I heard this place was during the Extra Challenge T.V. show that was hosted by Miriam Quiambao and Paolo Bediones. One of the actress who visited that place was Alec Bovick where he did rappelling on the said falls. At that time I wished that I can go to that place and do some rappelling on that falls.

Well this time is the time that I will be able to see the place that I once wished to visit.  The road on the way to the site is a little bit rocky and steep.While on our way, there were light rainfall which make our travel a little bit difficult since the rain makes the road muddy. But thanks God, we were safe when we arrived at our destination. Unfortunately, I am a little bit disappointed about the place since the waters has a muddy color. The caretaker told us that the river is not good at that moment because a very heavy rainfall came last night. But still we try to make our stay there an enjoyable one. 

One of the thing that makes our stay there enjoyable is the trek that we travel in order to reach Pangyan falls. The water current is strong which make us a little bit difficult to cross the river. When we reach the falls, I was facinated on the view that I saw.  You can really say that place is refreshing and relaxing even though a heavy rain shower had cross on the place that night.

After we visit the falls, we dive and take a bath on Mainit hot Spring. The spring is located just below the falls, so theres no hard time to travel from the falls to the hot spring. The hot spring makes your body relaxed especially on a very long trip all the way to the location. The hot spring pool is a little bit small which is only good for small group of people. 

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It's More Fun In Lupon: The 63rd Araw ng Lupon Schedule of Activities

It's been 64 years since the Municipality of Lupon has been established. In order to commemorate this unforgettable event of my hometown, they will be celebrating 64th Araw ng Lupon. In my 22 years of existence in this world, I have observed that the celebration for the said event became more prestigious. You can really say that It's more fun in the Philippines specially in Lupon if you attend the occasion. Below are the list of the schedules and events for the upcoming celebration.

August 1 (Wednesday)
4:30 am PAMUKAW (DAYANA)
8:00 am IMMUNIZATION DAY
7:00 pm RAK-RAKAN SA PARK (Free Concert)


August 2 (Thursday)
6:00 pm- SKMF BASKETBALL CUP CHAMPIONSHIP
7:00 pm LAKANBINI 2012 (Miss Gay Contest)


August 3 (Friday)
8:00 am SEPAK TAKRAW TOURNAMENT
9:00 am MAYOR DOMINGO A. LIM FOOTBALL TOURNAMENT CHAMPIONSHIP
7:00 pm KALSADANZ (Free Disco at the Street)


August 4 (Saturday)
4:00 am LINGAW-DAGAN (Fun Run)
9:00 am LAWN TENNIS TOURNAMENT
9:00 am BLOOD LETTING @ DONCAMAR
7:00 pm MUTYA NG LUPON 2012 TALENT NIGHT


August 5 (Sunday)
8:00 am BLOOD LETTING @ POBLACION
8:00 am LAWN TENNIS CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH
9:00 am SHOOTING COMPETITION
7:00 pm PASUNDAYAG SA KAGABHION 
            (Inter-Agency Night) and GABI NG PARANGAL


August 6 (Monday)
8:00 am JOB'S FAIR 2012
7:00 pm MUZIK SANGKAAN 2012 (Battle of the Bands)


August 7 (Tuesday)
8:00 am ARAW NG LUPON BANCARERA 2012
9:00 am AGRI-TRADE FAIR JUDGING DAY
7:00 pm MUTYA NG LUPON 2012 PAGEANT NIGHT


August 8 Grand Celebration (Wednesday)
7:00 am MISA PASALAMAT
8:00 am GRAND PARADE
8:00 am PARADA/INDAK-SAYAW SA KADALANAN (Street Dancing Competition)
10:00 am GRAND CELEBRATION PROGRAM
1:00 pm INDAK-SAYAW SA KADALANAN SHOWDOWN
2:00 pm LIBRENG GUPIT
7:00 pm GMA KAPUSO SHOW


You can also check this link to see the previous celebration of 63rd Araw ng Lupon. 

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Holidays in the Sun: Goa

When you are choosing to travel outside of the UK summer season, trips abroad to winter sun destinations can seem restricted to expensive long haul jaunts.  Cheap holidays in Goa are the perfect budget holidays in the sun if you are looking to get away to sunny climes during spring.

Although it is a long haul destination, cheap holidays in Goa make jetting to these exotic faraway shores an affordable possibility. Flight times from most UK airport to Goa last approximately six hours which is a manageable timeframe for entertaining tots, if you are travelling with young family.

When visiting a faraway destination, don’t be tempted to settle for less than ten nights abroad. The length of time you spend travelling to and from your selected resort can eat into your quality time. Be assured that Goa is full of exciting excursions and opportunities if you do choose to splurge and stay for a recommended two week stint. 

Do not miss the opportunity to visit Goa’s array of wildlife sanctuaries. Watch as elephants bathe and are fed and even take the trip of a lifetime on the back of one of the splendid animals. In addition, enjoy escorted tours to areas such as the Tyavarekoppa jungle reserve - the ideal spot for spotting some of the resort’s free roaming tigers. 

As well as the wildlife in Goa, the backdrop to your stay is a beauty to behold in itself. Enjoy beautiful stretches of sands and impressive waterfalls such as the Dudhsagar, with falls of over 600 meters. 

Put time aside to visit the flea markets which are scattered throughout the region. One of the largest markets, with hundreds of stalls, is held on Anjuna Beach. Pick up some spices and haggle for any goods you choose to purchase.

If you’re tempted to try Goa, book cheap holidays in Goa online, for any time from March to June, for the best of spring holidays in the sun. 

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Algarve on a Budget

Perfect for beach breaks, the Algarve is the ultimate place to chill out and relax. It’s got a beach for every occasion - family-friendly bays with safe shallow shores, secluded coves, and long stretches of sand that were simply made for sunbathing.

Although not to everyone’s taste, if you want to save money on your holiday to the Algarve, one of the best ways to do this is to book an all inclusive style hotel. Not only will your breakfast, lunch and dinner be provided as part of the cost - often served as a buffet to offer the best choice - you will also have snacks and drinks included too, which makes Portugal all inclusive holidays a sensible option that’s bound to save you a small fortune.

It may be more expensive at the time of booking but there are several ways around this. Book early and look for discounted upgrades to all inclusive, and shop around between tour operators (as well as direct with the hotels) to see if you can get it cheaper anywhere else. It may take some searching but it’s usually worth the effort. Or, consider a late deal and save a significant chunk off the whole cost of your holiday by booking as close to the departure date as possible.

Take Thomas Cook for instance. As one of the most well-known and long-established tour operators in the UK market, they certainly know how it’s done and you’ll find plenty of bargain Thomas Cook holidays on offer across the full package spectrum.

Or for an entirely different experience, book a scheduled flight and find your own self-catering apartment away from the main tourist hotspots. Shop in the local markets or grocery shops and cook your own meals - it’s a great way of saving money on eating out plus you get to experience a side of Portugal that many visitors bypass completely.

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Discovering the Beauty of Kawa-Kawa Falls

It is really true that nature gives you a very relaxing feeling specially when you are on a stressful week. One of place that I really love to go where I can be with mother nature is the Kawa-Kawa Falls. Kawa-kawa falls derives it name from the visayan word Kawa which means Wok. The falls has a wok-like pool that measures about 15 feet in height.

 The fall is located at Brgy. Bitaogan, San Isidro, Davao Oriental. Before you arrive to the place, you need to cross 3 small rivers and a very rocky road. You can take a motorcycle or a car in order to reach it. But base on my experience, it is better to travel via motorcycle because the road is very rocky and its near the cliff which make 4 wheel car hard to drive.

You can really say that the place is not yet visited by many people. But there's no need to worry on where you can put your things and have your lunch and snacks since there are small huts and cottages built there. What's more amazing of the falls is that you can drink it. That's how clean the place is.

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Trip to the Southern Part of Davao Oriental

October last year, me and my friends decided to go to Parola or Light house at Cape San Agustin. I really thought it would be easy to travel on that place. But I was wrong. So far, it was the hardest trip that I ever had in my whole life. There were many hills we crossed just to get to that place. In the middle of our journey to parola, a heavy rain suddenly fall. It made our route a little bit difficult to pass. 

After 6 hours of travel, we finally arrive to our destination, the Cape of San Agustin. This area is the south part of  Davao Oriental. It was said that there was a priest who jump in this cape because he was been chased by the tribe who lives in this place while he was spreading christian learning. That is why it was called Cape of San Agustin.Other rumors said that this is the hiding place of the bandits and they also hide their treasures here. 

In this cape stands 2 old parola that has never been used for years. There's a new tower that has been built within the cape. I'm not sure if what is the used of the newly built tower over there. We tried to go down to the cape and we take our lunch there. The waves are strong since the sea is part of the Pacific Ocean. 

The place there is very nice especially if you want to relax and unwind. Unfortunately, the weather is not good  that is why we just stay there about an hour and left the place

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Happy Easter Sunday at Blue Bless Beach Resort!

Sunday, April 8 2012- The Christian celebration that the Lord Jesus Christ has risen from the dead. This celebration is commonly known as Easter Sunday. This day marks the new beginning of life, and most of the families goes to the beach as their sign of celebration that the Lord has come to life again. I together with my friends planned already to go beach at this day and we decided to go  Blue Bless Beach Resort since its their grand opening. 

Blue Bless Beach Resort is one of the new tourist spot in Mati City. It is located at Sitio Pitugo, Barangay Bobon, City of Mati. It is under developed beach resort but rest assure that the resort will satisfy your stay and gives you a great vacation experience. The blue and clear water gives them a great time to enjoy swimming. They have a 2 separate convenience store which is easy for you to buy the things and foods that you need. What's good with it is that the price is not too expensive. They also have a resto bar for you to hang out with. 

They do have different types of cottages for you to choose from. Below are the rental fee for cottages and room:

Small Cottage- Php 350.00

Large Cottage- Php 500.00

Room- Php 1,500.00(Not sure)

Since it is far from the city, it gives you a very relaxing ambiance. This could be a good place to be relaxed and release all stress from a hard day work.

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Will Escapade: The Reborn

While i'm trying to kill the time and waiting for my work, it suddenly popped out in my mind to visit the blog that I managed. Five months have passed and I haven't write anything about it. While reading my older post, it suddenly bring back to my memories the days when I visited the place that I featured here in my blog. I said to myself that I should start writing again. What makes me motivate why I want to write and make this an active blog again,are the comments of the people who visits my site. It makes me happy to see them interacting in my blog. 

For the past few month, many things happened. I visited lots of places that I have not yet visited before. I will write later some of the places where I have been.

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