Sto. NiÑo Basilica & Magellan's Cross (Cebu, Philippines)

The church was founded in 1565 and considered to be the oldest Roman Catholic church in the country. In 1965, Paul VI made the church a basilica and named it as the symbol of the birth and growth of Christianity in the Philippines.

Several renovations were done beginning in 1735, retaining the church's original features. Today, the basilica is still under the care of Augustinian friars.

In 2013, a 7.2 magnitude earthquake caused damages on the church's belfry and facade, and walls had cracks. The damages were restored immediately and later re-opened for the public once again.

The church holds the Christ child statue dating to Magellan's time and becomes crowded especially in the weekends as worshippers (including street sellers) join pilgrim processions.

Close from the basilica is a walking distance towards the Magellan's Cross. The Magellan's cross is inside a Spanish-styled pavilion which is a wooden cross. You will notice that the cross you will see is not the original (as the plaque says in the photo) but instead, is a replica used to cover the original cross.

According to the historical facts, the original cross was set up by Magellan and his fellow explorers upon arriving in the Philippines exactly as where the cross is standing today!

The Story of Mactan Shrine (Cebu, Philippines)

The shrine was constructed in memory of the Battle of Mactan in 1521 between the Spaniards and the natives, in which Lapu-Lapu was the native chieftain who resisted the leadership of Magellan to subdue and convert the natives to Christianity, as well as resisted the idea of subjecting themselves to Spain's throne. The shrine is in a covered structure that houses it.

Few meters away from the Mactan Shrine includes two more shrines; - the Lapu-Lapu shrine and the Magellan monument.

1. Lapu-lapu Shrine - is a historical bronze statue which is 65.5 feet high. He was a native leader (chieftain) who killed Ferdinand Magellan during the battle of Mactan in 1521. As you continue to look up close on the statue, you will notice that on his left hand is a shield and on his right  is a large jungle knife called "kampilan", - his only weapons that killed Magellan.

Me and family ;)

       2. Few distances nearby Lapu-lapu shrine is the Magellan monument also known as Magellan's marker or Magellan shrine which was also erected as a memorial tower for Magellan, - a portuguese explorer. The monument is overlooking the Magellan Bay and is believed to be the exact place where he was killed by Lapu-lapu.

The tower is approximately 30 meters high, with an obelisk shape on top and consists of marble. You would notice that the monument is less-maintained looking moldy and dark.

The monument has four sides, where the obelisk top is standing. On one side is the name of Magellan written in Portuguese. The 2nd side is a dedication to "Spanish Glory"; The 3rd side is the name of the Spanish governor of the Philippines; the 4th side is the name of the Spanish monarch under the rule of Queen Ysabel II.

The Majestic Pyramids of Chichen Itza (Chichen Itza Tour)

Chichen Itza is considered to be one of the most famous attraction visited by tourists in Mexico Yucatan Peninsula. It is a huge pyramid with steps and is originally known as El Castillo or Temple of Kukulcan that existed as early as 600AD to the 1200's.

It is considered as an ancient Mayan ruin that reflects soaring, rugged pyramids and carved columns which was dedicated to Kukulcan, - the feathered serpent.

The Mayans were considered to have a great level of architectural and astronomical knowledge due to the ruins' play of light and shadow during certain equinox. At each equinox, as the sun rises over the horizon, it illuminates the west balcony of the base, which creates triangles of light and shadow that looked like a serpent in the ruffle of the arch on the stairway of the pyramidal basement known as El Castillo.

Chichen Itza today is now considered a major national park in Mexico due to its proximity and easy accessibility to Cancun.

Me and Chichen Itza at the background! ;)

The ruins were used to be opened for tourists to climb all the way high up the steps going down inside to see some rooms for religious sites, but unfortunately closed its doors due to concerns for safety due to a tourist's accidental death in 2006. It was also further decided by Mexico's management that in order to prolong the life span of the ruins, they have to control heavy foot traffic getting in and out of the ruins, thus the closure!

Malibu Dude Ranch New Year 2017 Experience

We traveled 4.5 hours with couple of friends to spend our New Year's Eve there. Our friend did the checking about the resort, their offers, activities that can be done, deals and the reviews of customers. It sounded positive, so we were inspired to go.

Malibu Dude Ranch is located in Milford, PA situated in the scenic Pocono Mountains, northeast of Pennsylvania. The resort proudly offers ranch activities such as horseback-riding rodeo, volleyball, basketball, indoor pool, etc...for an all-inclusive package price, meals included. The package amount we paid was $250 per person per night with a minimum stay of at least 2 nights.

Their website proudly says they have luxurious cabins.

Fast forward.....

We checked in to our so-called rustic, luxurious cabin room that was not! The room's carpet floor looked old, faded and dirty with a moldy smell. NO TV, with only just a dim light. Bath and shower rooms are decent and clean though, but tight.

A luxurious room, no matter how rustic the style, is NOT luxurious without a TV, don't you think?

The meals were all free of course, including horseback riding, skiing and snow tubing. Remember, it's winter season! ;)

What was confusing was that about them saying that amenities of the resort are all free with the package deal...it was NOT! The pool (billiard) and game room were not free! Snowmobile and ATV we believed were part of the resort's amenities  but they would ask you to pay $100 extra of your stay per activity. There is an additional fee for every activity except horseback riding, skiing, snow tubing and use of indoor pool. We were not sure about the ball games since they only offer them in warmer months.

We managed to at least enjoy the indoor pool and it was a good thing there was nobody there except us. :)

It was a good New Year's Eve party experience though! Hors d' oeuvres were complimentary, with good music and dancing during the party!

Overall, the fun and experience was just okay, but I don't agree with the idea of the price package deal which was too expensive for the activities and the room was not worth it!

The Tacky Lights Tour - An Experience

When it comes to the best tacky Christmas light displays that can be seen in homes and some business areas, try signing up for a Tacky Lights Tour located in Richmond, Virginia.

There are no specific routes to go to, as they are located in different locations in various neighborhoods.

So, if you are visiting, it is recommended to sign up for one online, or you can perhaps find a visitor center in the area for any info.

Experience wise, we did a bus tour, so there was no hassle when it comes to the places or homes we should go.

The tacky lights tradition in Richmond has been around for 30 years! There should be at least 40,000 lights minimum requirement in order to be nominated and included on the list of approved houses to join the tacky lights contest.

The year 2016's grand price was $50,000.

Take note: - it's more convenient to take the tour aboard a tour bus, or trolley (depending on the weather), limos or vans.

There are professional tour companies that offer services to do it for you, so you don't need to risk driving on your own, and get lost...lol! You'll enjoy it better!

backyard lights at 9215 Venetian Way

The Christmas house by "Mr. Christmas" Frank Hudak.

Some homes we visited were located at Marbury Terrace, Glen Allen, Virginia and some at Henrico, VA.

GardenFest of Lights at Lewis Ginter Botanical Gardens

If you want yourself surrounded by a half-a-million twinkling lights during the holidays, visit Lewis Ginter Botanical Gardens in Richmond, Virginia, as you stroll along pathways filled with flowers aglow or pass under archways of lights decked out in sparkling streamers, bells, baskets, etc...

One of the highlights would be seeing the 14-ft. tree fully decorated with Victorian decorations!

As you enter in the central garden, you will be amused to see some colorful orbs as you pass through the elegant courtyard. You'll then see all kinds of colorful designs in various shapes and sizes all throughout the garden.

The garden's festival of lights is a tradition that's being celebrated every year with different theme each year. It usually starts late November to early January of the next year.

A Guided Tour To Colonial Williamsburg - Christmas Tour

Colonial Williamsburg, Virginia is popularly known as America's largest interactive history museum, located south of Washington D.C.

Your visit will bring you back in time during the American Revolution period. You will hear beating of drums, trilling rifles and meet and greet interpretive characters in their costumes as you stroll around. 

There are other more activities being done as well, especially for the kids too!

Our tour included a visit to a church and learned about the Historic Triangle as one of the highlights for an interesting narration and historical facts.

Also, see and enjoy some homes and lots of shops along Duke of Gloucester Street which are decorated for the Colonial Christmas.

If you enjoy shopping and dining, proceed to Merchant's Square.

Sent from my iPad Pro:

"Greatly blessed, highly favored...imperfect but forgiven child of God!"😇🙏

Agecroft Hall Visit - A Guided Tour

Age Croft Hall is a Tudor home built in Lancashire, England during the late 15th century. It was considered to be a distinguished home of the Langley & Dauntesey families in England for hundreds of years. 

By the end of 19th century, it fell into disrepair and eventually sold in auction in 1925.

Thomas Williams, a resident from Richmond, Virginia bought the structure, then dismantled the home estate, shipped it to Richmond, Virginia and then re-assembled it in the neighborhood of Richmond in Windsor Farms.

Today, it still stands on the rolling banks of the James River beautifully recreated, just like in its original site in Lancashire, England along Irwell River.

Take note: photos are not allowed inside the estate during the tour, but are allowed outside the home and in the gardens.

During our tour, a visit to the gardens was allowed, but bothing can be seen due to the season. (Winter) Ideal times to visit this estate would be late spring to early fall if you want to visit the gardens too!

Taking the tour inside (even if photos are not allowed) will be all worth it. The tour guide will bring you back to the lifestyle of the Langleys & Daunteseys during their period, as explained from room to room.

Sent from my iPad Pro:

"Greatly blessed, highly favored...imperfect but forgiven child of God!"😇🙏

Busch Garden’s Christmas Town at Night

The adventure park becomes more beautiful at night during the holiday seasons, where you will be enchanted by its holiday decors and lights which includes heart-warming shows, delicious holiday dining and festive shopping! These are only but part of your joyful experience as you come for a visit! [Ps}

As the sun sets, the adventure park will glow with over 8 million lights as you witness the twinkling and dazzling colors while you stroll through the park!

Just a heads up!....it will always be crowded especially at night. If you want to stay or visit during the night on holidays, expect long lines at shows and dining!

We watched the show "Gloria" which was really fantastic! Experience wise, we had to wait long lines for the show, but it was smooth...not much hassles particularly if you line up early for the next show times ;).

Dining would always be a tough challenge though, as most people are eating from early afternoon to dinner time.

It's still worth the enjoyment though!..let's face it, it is part of it when you are in a theme park.

Sent from my iPad Pro:

"Greatly blessed, highly favored...imperfect but forgiven child of God!"😇🙏

Visit to Charles Dickens Christmas Towne

Charles Dickens Christmas Towne is a magical, recreated village where you 'll get the experience of stepping back into a 19th century Victorian England. This is one place worth visiting during Christmas time, located at Waterside Drive in Norfolk, Virginia. Children will surely enjoy it.

Inside the village, you get to experience walking on cobblestone path past candlelit windows, or enjoy delicious, seasonal baked goods, or sip hot teas and chocos at cozy places. You can as well shop pretty ornaments from many local merchants, or just watch strolling costumed actors and carolers greeting everyone with "Happy Christmas", and singing seasonal songs.

You'll also enjoy taking your photos from ideal holiday backdrops such as London vignettes or mesmerizing model train displays that are catchy for the children. 

There are lots of activities that the whole family can enjoy including the experience of seeing snow in the town square everyday of your visit!

Sent from my iPad Pro:

"Greatly blessed, highly favored...imperfect but forgiven child of God!"😇🙏

Boardwalk Holiday Lights - Virginia Beach

One amazing place to visit during the Christmas season in Virginia Beach is the boardwalk for the sparkling lights.

It's gonna be a slow driving tour for those who are doing a quick visit.

I and my husband were able to sign up for a bus tour going there, so we were in a large group.

This has been a holiday tradition that makes the night lovely and wonderful to the Hampton roads and along 2nd Street & the Boardwalk of course!

There are certain fees for all vehicles coming depending on the type of vehicle you have. The fees may also change yearly.

You will be amused with the various animated holiday-themed light displays, and if you have kids, they would absolutely enjoy it! Attractive displays include jumping dolphins, frolicking sea creatures, blocks of festive fish, mermaids, santas and many more. I have attached some video clips as well as photos for you to enjoy ;).

Note that each light may not be exactly the same each year. They may add some new designs and remove some, or they may be the same with additional animations.

Enjoy the holidays with spectacular delight at Virginia Beach for your whole family. It will be worth it. Bring your cameras and take tons of photos and videos too!

Sent from my iPad Pro:

"Greatly blessed, highly favored...imperfect but forgiven child of God!"😇🙏

A Tribute Holiday Show For the USO

It was a patriotic night experience with a comedy in between watching the "USO Holiday Tribute Show" at the Virginia Beach Convention Center.

The show features songs and music during the WW II, Korea and Vietnam. The performance called "Thanks for the Memories" was nostalgic for those who experienced hearing entertainment during the World War II, which included comedy and music that starred Bill Johnson as Bob Hope and the Victory Belles from WW II Museum in New Orleans along with seasonal music and historical repertoires.

This tribute show is dedicated to all American veterans with holiday songs which were performed by Hollywood celebrities in the jungles, battlefields and even aboard aircraft carriers...those days when soldiers got their entertainment while on the battlefield!

This show brings you back into yesteryear!

Guided Tour of the Hunter House Victorian Museum

Before you take this tour, take note that photos are not allowed inside! So, reserve your cameras for photos outside only! :(

This house museum is located in the Freemason district of downtown Norfolk, Virginia that is rich in both local and Victorian history, built in 1894.

As you walk towards the house museum, you can easily see the sign along with beautiful two-story eclectic 19th century homes lining the street as its neighborhood! 

The only photo I secretly took inside which they said this was a medical machine used to diagnose heart failures!

This gorgeous Victorian house museum was owned by Mr. James & Lizzie Hunter and their 3 children. The family was prominent since Mr. Hunter was a famous civic leader and merchant and a successful banker.

Most of its furnishings are original including the Victorian furnishings and decorative arts which also belonged to the hunter family.

Tours are offered if you want to know more about its history and the artistic style furnishings inside the home, or if you are just one person who loves art and history.

Chocolate tasting AT The Royal Chocolate

If you haven't heard about The Royal Chocolate yet, it's a local confectionary that would treat you with a hot choco fondue and homemade truffles.

Me and hubby

It's located in Virginia Beach Town Center that offers chocolates of all kinds, like choco-dipped apples, gourmet caramel and all kinds of exquisite chocolates placed in beautiful gift baskets.

It also has a special collection of handmade Royal Chocolates made with real Belgian chocolate.

You can always get a nice gesture from them by a free tasting! A very nice bonus if you also want to buy their products; - from regular chocolate products to chocolates-filled beautifully wrapped gift box and basket!

A "Glimpse of Heaven" (Garin Farm - San Joaquin, Iloilo)

Garin Farm in San Joaquin, Iloilo Philippines is both a farm and a pilgrimage area in one. It's also a resort that integrates agriculture, leisure and pilgrimage, so expect it to be a place where lots of activities can be done; - from feeding the animals, doing leisure activities to Spiritual reflections.

Since I have already talked about the farm in my previous posts, I would only want to share my experience about the additional feature added at the pilgrimage area; - the meditation tunnel and stairway to heaven! It actually went famous in several social media and in the local news, so it caught my attention. With so much interest, I and my husband thought of visiting the place when we went to the Philippines for a vacation.

the path

meditation area

If you want to see the stairway to heaven, you can either do it in two options. Either climb up the 480-step stairways up to the Divine Mercy Cross, or hop on a cart going up with a minimal fee. The most efficient way to do it would be through the stairs; - you get free exercise, and at no cost! ;).

Take note that you have to go through the dark meditation tunnel to reach the stairway to heaven when you are coming from the stairs passing by the Divine Mercy cross.

Once you reached the top, facing the cross, you will be led to a stairs on your right going through the tunnel. It is actually dark because of black walls, and only lit by small LED lights at both sides of the main path. As you walk towards inside, you will then see a meditation area with the image of Christ where you can actually meditate and pray.

At the end of the tunnel is a bright light that actually is breathtaking when you see it...it feels like you are now few steps away to enter Heaven...God's Kingdom!

Once you've passed that bright light out of the tunnel, you will be amazed to see a "stairway to heaven"; a scene that is described mostly in the Bible (a simulation of some sort). The stairs are all pure white, lined by angels blowing trumpets on both sides, until up the main door as you go further inside where you can see more angels all dressed in white facing the Great White Throne, worshipping the Holy Trinity; - God the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit on it.

Me and my family

The place has a different photo effects during the night and during daytime. We went there at night and we had the camera flash so it looked brighter. But if you know how to play your camera lights in a darker mode, you might be able to get unique kind of shots during the night. It's just amazing that during night time, the white color appears so distinctively bright.

The experience of seeing a simulated heaven is surely heavenly! You can basically meditate and pray there, plus you get an amazing feeling of how glorious it is to at least get the experience to see a "glimpse of heaven"!

Wonderfully blessed!!!