JAPAN: Beer & Food Trip Diary

Some people collect ref magnets or mugs when they travel. I collect beer. Or at least I try to drink as many variants of unique beer as possible when I travel to a different country. Though Japan is really known more for sake (rice wine), I was glad to be able to add a few new ones to my beer collection during our trip around Nagoya, Takayama, Gamagori and Gujo Hachiman with Cebu Pacific.

japan nagoya travelup akamiso beer

There are 4 major beer producers in Japan: Asahi, Kirin, Sapporo and Suntory, who produce mostly easy to drink pale-colored light lagers with an alcohol strength of around 5.0%. While some of these beers are widely available internationally including here in the Philippines, it’s always nice to pair a great Japanese meal with the local brew. Here’s a look at of some of the beers we tried and the delicious meals we consumed them with. Continue reading “JAPAN: Beer & Food Trip Diary”

5 Things To Do in Cagayan de Oro

Cagayan de Oro is best known for Whitewater Rafting and kayaking adventures. This first class and capital city in the province of Misamis Oriental in Northern Mindanao has been dubbed the “River Rafting Capital of the Philippines.” However, this adventure activity is best experienced if you’re staying a few days in the city. I tried this years ago during pre-blogging days when waterproof digital cameras were not yet that popular. For first-time visitors, this would be the major highlight of your visit to Cagayan de Oro.

mapawa nature park cagayan de oro travelup tree

But aside from whitewater rafting, what else is there to do if you only have a limited time to go around?  Here are some things to do in Cagayan de Oro around the city that you can easily visit in a day. Continue reading “5 Things To Do in Cagayan de Oro”

Vintage Garage Bar & Diner in Legazpi City

I’m kind of a sucker for any establishment that uses retro motorcycles and bicycles as its theme. There are a few biker bars in Metro Manila, including The Roadhouse along Mall of Asia, Vintage Cafe Muvela in Marikina and Handlebar & Grill, to name a few. I heard that there was a similar bar in Legazpi City in Bicol, so during a family road trip there, I made it a point to check it out.

vintage garage bar legazpi bicol mopeds
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JAPAN: Savoring the Flavors of Takayama

The streets were buzzing with the chatter of locals and tourists alike admiring the ceremonial yatai – ornate wooden structures that display traditional Japanese craftsmanship. It was hard not to get overwhelmed as we walked along the streets of Takayama, a city in the mountainous Hida region, roughly two hours away from Nagoya, Japan. Our visit coincided with the Takayama Autumn Festival, so the streets were extra lively.
takayama autumn festival japan yatai floats people

The crisp morning air, the aroma of fresh meat and seafood sizzling on hibachi grills and the naturally beautiful backdrop of the old town’s streets put everyone in a festive mood. Continue reading “JAPAN: Savoring the Flavors of Takayama”

Fresh Dining Destination in Tagaytay: Sisterfields

When it comes to quick weekend or day trip getaways from Metro Manila, Tagaytay City is the top destination for many families. The refreshing view and number of restaurants make this a favorite among foodies who want the closest “out of town” experience to the metro. For those looking for a new dining destination with a unique concept, Sisterfields located in Summit Ridge Hotel Tagaytay is a good option. Sisterfields serves a modern take on home-cooked Tagaytay favorites using locally produced ingredients and fresh garden herbs.

sisterfields by cravings tagaytay pineapple tawilis tinapa roll

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Food Trip: Capiz

Roxas City, the capital of Capiz is known as the “seafood capital of the Philippines.” Home to one of the richest fishing grounds in the country, Roxas City offers a range of fresh and affordable seafood including shellfish, squid and different varieties of fish. From jumbo-sized tiger prawns to crabs and oysters cooked in a variety of ways – you can enjoy seafood any way you want. Grilled, steamed, stewed, fried, dried smoked or even raw – take your pick!

seafood dinner espacio verde roxas city capiz

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Z Compound on Malingap Street

Updated February 2016

There are now several food parks in the Maginhawa area, but the original one that started the trend back in 2013 is the collective of food stalls known as Z Compound or “The Z”, which can be found in the garden area of an old house on #33A Malingap Street. The Zone has a good mix of budget-friendly and unique quality food, making this one of our favorites in the area. It’s also one of the most bike-friendly places to eat in the area, since you can park your rides inside.

z compound good food signage bikes

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Farm-to-Table Feast: La Huerta in CamSur

La Huerta de Rosario is a rustic farm getaway where guests can enjoy a wonderful farm-to-table feast amid artistic surroundings. Visitors can experience harvesting fresh fruits and vegetables, taste it in the local cuisine served, and get inspired by the beauty of rural arts.

09. la huerta baao camarines sur farm to table kalabasa pili Continue reading “Farm-to-Table Feast: La Huerta in CamSur”

Que Pasa: An Art Haven in Naga City

Across the iconic Naga Cathedral on the historic street of Barlin stands Que Pasa, a new restaurant that is becoming a haven for local artists and a showcase of a thriving new art scene in the province of Camarines Sur in the Bicol region.

que pasa naga city bicol faces mural

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Food Trip Tips: How to Maximize Buffets

Travel and hotel stays usually involve buffet breakfasts and meals. Here in the metro, eat-all-you-can buffets have become more popular for special occasions, celebrations and food events. As a foodie, it’s an exercise in self-control every time I enter a buffet restaurant. In case it isn’t obvious from all my previous food posts on what is supposed to be a travel blog, food is really my weakness.

Dad's World Buffet Temaki-Group

Here are a few tips on how to make the most of eating in buffets so you don’t end up in a food coma every time.

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