Life Lately with Mariz

I'm excited. This is my first vacation abroad.  That was the thought I had while I was on my way to the airport. I arrived at the airport 5 hours before the flight and the airport was packed! There was a long queue at the Airline counters up to the Immigration and Security. I reached the Immigration counter 2.5 hours before my boarding gate closed. I had plenty of time so I was in no rush.  Layover at Hamad International Airport Until the bitter reality started to bite me in the *ss. I spent the remaining 2 hours of my buffer time at the Immigration office for an interview. There was a lot of questioning. I kept calm and collected throughout the interview until I checked on the clock with 20 minutes remaining before my boarding gate closed *and the Officer was not done with me yet and still came with her questions* . That was when I began to lose my spirit and I was already preparing myself for the bad news of being offloaded. I have to call my brothers back to the airport to pick

From the point of view of a Filipino, Bangkok, Thailand feels like Manila with a twist. The common themes that Bangkok and Manila share are the tropical climate being humid, the streets being bustled by public and private utility vehicles and motorcycles, and the transportation, malls, and markets being vivaciously huddled by people. Bangkok and Manila being the capital cities of their respective countries serve as its political, economic, cultural, and transportation hubs. Considering this, crowding is already given as their common factor. For a young Filipino female and a first-time solo (abroad) traveler, Bangkok is your country 101. Your first visit to it will cover the basics of traveling abroad such as having first-hand experience with the Immigration and Security process in the airports, having familiarity with the basic travel requirements to avoid offloading or deportation, testing your adaptability to and resourcefulness in a new environment, and learning how to enjoy your tr

Istanbul, a city of stark contrast. Modern city on the one hand, cultural sites that are thousands of years old on the other. Istanbul's history is marked by its transformation from Byzantium to Constantinople and, finally, to the Istanbul we know today, with each era leaving its influence to the modern city’s identity and character. In this epic journey, we are going to explore some of the cultural sites and modern streets of Istanbul. We will also try some of the local food, interact with the locals, and observe their local norms. The Cultural Sites Hagia Sofia Hagia Sofia has a rich history that spans over 1,500 years. It was originally built as a cathedral by the Roman Emperor Constantine the Great in 537 AD. It underwent a significant transformation in 1453 when the Ottoman Empire, under Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror, conquered Constantinople (now Istanbul). The cathedral was converted into a mosque, and minarets were added to its structure. Hagia Sofia In 1935, as part of Turke

Siargao Island, the surfing capital of the Philippines, is famed for its pristine beaches and stunning landscapes. Beyond the waves and beaches, the island offers a delectable array of local and international cuisine as well as vibrant nightlife that keeps the island alive after the sun sets. In this blog, we'll take you on a journey along Siargao's Tourism Road, exploring the island's culinary treasures and the lively nightlife scenes that make it an irresistible destination for foodies and partygoers alike. Island Vibes with International Flavors Along the Tourism Road, you'll find restaurants and cafes offering international dishes that cater to a global palate. Enjoy wood-fired pizzas, Thai curries, Mexican tacos, and much more. There are also many vegetarian and vegan options for those with dietary preferences. Kurvada resto offering Filipino and International cuisines Unique Street Food As the sun sets, street food vendors emerge, offering tasty and affordable tre

Davao City, a vibrant metropolis in the southern Philippines, is a place where the urban landscape seamlessly blends with natural beauty, cultural diversity, and economic vitality. At the heart of this bustling city lies its downtown area, a captivating hub where the pulse of Davao beats the strongest. In this blog, we will take you on a journey through Davao City's downtown, uncovering the gems, experiences, and unique characters that define this dynamic urban center. Davao International (Francisco Bangoy) Airport Downtown Davao: A Thriving Hub Davao City's downtown is the central business district, characterized by its skyscrapers, bustling streets, and the unmistakable energy of progress. It is a reflection of the city's continuous growth and development over the years. Here are some of the highlights of downtown Davao: People's Park Start your downtown exploration with a visit to People's Park. This lush, green oasis in the heart of the city is a welcoming respi