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c h i k k a
w a n d e r l u s t
CHECKING OUT ATI-ATIHAN,
just
like Estan? If you're heading to
Kalibo's big street party on January
18
and 19, or any of the big Philippine
festivals this month, such as Cebu's
Sinulog or Iloilo's Dinagyang, be sure
to be ready and properly equipped for
the festivities. Load up on more travel
tips from the pros at our website,
More travel tips
from the pros
7
WORTH THE TRIP
“
I had trepidations visiting Basilan. But
to complete all 80 Philippine provinces, I
had to do it. I didn’t expect much, so finding
exquisite architecture in the form of Isabela
City’s cathedral was a major surprise. I was
even more delighted when I crossed the
channel to Malamawi Island, where I found
a pristine white-sand beach.”
4
THOUGHT-PROVOKING
“
I felt the gravity of the genocide when I faced the Death Tree at
Choeung Ek in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. On a brighter note, though, I
was excited to see the Central Market’s art deco architecture (shown here)
—
a massive dome with four arms. It was a sight to behold.”
6
TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS
“
I’m more of a ‘quest traveler’ — meaning there are some things I look for in a place. For
example, I’ll be visiting Malaysia in late January to document the Thaipusam Festival. It has
some parallels to our practice of self-flagellation during Lent, but bloodier. I’ll be there for the
colors, and the surreal experience. Outside of festivals, I’m also on a quest for a certain kind of
architecture, like the Minangkabau at Negeri Sembilan in Malaysia or the outstanding cemetery
chapels of Iloilo. If I’m new to the place, I visit the markets and eateries for local flavors.”
3
NO PLACE LIKE HOME
“
Cebu is not just another Philippine
city. It is cosmopolitan, has lots of
history and culture, great food choices,
countryside, beaches and mountains. After
every exhausting trip around the country
or abroad, I always feel the call of home to
rest, recharge, meet friends and eat. Have
Talisay
lechon, dugo-dugo
and
ginabot
on Sundays, or look at the interesting
architecture of Carcar — a blend of
baroque, neoclassical and Muslim in a
Catholic edifice.”
5
GOING SOLO
“
I prefer solitude when I’m exploring.
I’m not the kind of backpacker who travels
for the sake of traveling, who sacrifices
comfort and local flavors just to be able to
reach places. I want to immerse myself in
what the place has to offer. If I need to pay,
I will do that.”
A festival dancer at the
Sinulog in Cebu
Inside Basilan's
Isabela Cathedral
Malaysia's Minangkabau
