Dumaguete Diving 2015

Recently, I went on a school trip to dive in Dumaguete's stunning waters. The adventure started with numerous dives in the pool, followed by venturing the big blue. I saw everything from lion fish to sea snakes to delicate corals to many more gorgeous aquatic creatures that literally took my breath away. We also visited Cebu, a neighbouring island, where we swam alongside the whale sharks, which are truly 'gentle giants.' Along the way, we caught a glimpse of some dolphins and I basically freaked out (they're my favourite animals). But, the biggest highlight of this trip was diving in the world-known Apo Island, a marine sanctuary home to 650 species of fish and 450 species of coral. It is truly the jewel of the seas. And just for a bonus: I am now a certified junior open water diver.

xoxo, Alex

Vigan, Ilocos Norte

Our trip to the historic Spanish-colonial fairytale that is the city of Vigan in northern Philippines was only a day trip, but it was definitely worth it. We started our trip catching a kalesa ride (horse-drawn carriage) to the Bantay Church Bell Tower where we walked up to the top to view the ancient town at a different perspective. We then visited numerous museums which captured the lifestyle of the city during the 16th century, tested lots of local cuisine and walked along the famous cobblestone street of Calle Crisologo, intaking the aroma of freshly baked empanadas and going past pottery and antique shops with capiz styled windows. Catch a glimpse of our Vigan adventure down below.

Mt. Arayat: Duke Of Edinburgh Expedition

For those of you who are unaware of what the Duke Of Edinburgh is, it's a youth awards programme founded in the United Kingdom by Prince Phillip (the Duke of Edinburgh). This programme allows you to go on expeditions and see the world in a different perspective. To know more about it, you can visit their website here: http://www.dofe.org/default.aspx

Recently, I went on a 1 night expedition up mount Arayat in Pampanga along with with the rest of my adventure-seeking friends. After the grueling 6 hour hike up the 3,336 foot extinct volcano, we were rewarded with a stunning view of the never ending city below. Upon completing setting up our tents, we watched down the sun, roasted marshmallows by the campfire and stargazed to complete the eventful day. An early morning the next day lead us to a spine-chilling slip n' slide downhill where we tried not to get injured. I would say that this expedition was a gratifying and profitable journey with lots of lessons to be taken away. However, my favourite part was seeing the city at night, all the lights turned on, getting confused between the stars in the sky and down below.

England - Easter 2015

Around 2 weeks ago, I returned from a chilly yet wondrous trip to England, UK as part of my easter holiday. We started the adventure with a much awaited visit to Stonehenge and the Longleat safari park and maze. Following a few informative hours about the history of the ethereal rock formations, we took to a photo shoot, as you do. Succeeding this, we met lots of wildlife through the safari park at Longleat. With just enough time, we took to the infamous maze, spending close to 2 hours finding our way to the middle.

The next couple of days saw us making use of the luxurious amenities at the Woolley Grange hotel and touring the eminent town of Bath, making stops at the Roman Baths, the Crescent and Victoria Park. 

Moving in a northerly direction, we were then found at the gorgeous Elms hotel and walking around illustrious Warwick castle. 

Subsequently, we spent time with my dad's family at Leicester, as well as visiting the tomb of King Richard III. 

Before leaving for the Philippines again, we stopped by London and I watched my first broadway show (Wicked). It was absolutely incredible and I was so chuffed to see it. Obviously, I highly recommend it. Other things done on this trip that I highly recommend is rowing on the Serpentine lake and having some grub at The Crypt, as well as the Godiva Café in Harrods.

xoxo, Alex