To those who are mapping out a trip to the Philippines, Manila, being its capital city, would first come to mind. It is interesting to note that your visit will certainly surround the entire bailiwick of Metro Manila. This planned route might take you to the old-world Intramuros (which is in the city of Manila itself), home to Spanish-era landmarks like Fort Santiago, Manila Cathedral, San Agustin Church museum, Casa Manila museum with its … [Read more...]
About Junfil Olarte
http://www.amazon.com/author/creativewriter78
Junfil Olarte has spent over two decades exploring the hidden soul of Southeast Asia—uncovering the stories where ancestral traditions, regional flavors, and modern wanderlust collide.
His travel writing brings global attention to overlooked corners of the Philippine archipelago and beyond, capturing the essence of place through deeply personal essays and comprehensive guides. His work has been featured in Things Asian, Go World Travel Magazine, and numerous print publications over the years.
After leaving a successful aviation career in 2004, Olarte joined Dave's Travel Corner in 2008. He is a member of England's International Travel Writers Alliance, connecting with travel journalists and photographers worldwide.
The Paradise of Mati
If islands such as Boracay, Puerto Galera or Panglao are the only places you have been to so far in the Philippines, then my recent trip to the southeastern tip of Mindanao will inspire your next adventure: such place being Mati, a city in the province of Davao Oriental. A perfect vacation spot for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, Mati can be reached around 3 to 4 hours via Davao City which serves as the entry point for all international … [Read more...]
The Tousuvan Falls
I'm continually in search of opportunities to escape my daily somewhat monotonous routine. After the long absence of travel, I desperately needed somewhere to go, to displace the boredom that crept into my life. The feeling of being trapped at home has never sat well with me. And then, recently, I felt a 'kick of the can' when I took some time off from work and visited the Zamboanga - Lanao -Maguindanao - Sultan Kudarat routes, heading to the … [Read more...]
Sailing The Philippine Islands: The Pearl Of The Orient
(From the August/September 2005 issue of "Escape From America Magazine" Vol. 8 No. 1 - EscapeArtist.com Inc. 832-1245 World Trade Center Panama, Republic of Panama) The alluring beauty of the Far East is seen through its contrasts of culture, lifestyle, and climate. Everyone has a desire to live and settle in a paradise of ease and quiet enjoyment. To many, the east provides such a place: an environment that satisfies every transient and … [Read more...]
The Taste At Koi Garden Cafe
KOI GARDEN CAFÉ came into existence after Australian-Filipino couple Clive and Sally began the restaurant in February of 2020. Situated in the heart of the small town of Clarin in the province of Misamis Occidental, Southern Philippines, the restaurant provides a cozy place to dine in for families, couples, circles of friends, or simply individuals from neighboring cities or municipalities looking for a relaxing hangout. The restaurant is also an … [Read more...]
Discovering Bambang
The journey began as I and several friends arrived and converged at Manila Airport. Our shuttle van waited to fetch us, ready to set off for Bambang - site of a special gathering for a poetry circle we would be attending. It was, indeed, a tedious long land journey. However, the enjoyable company of my friends and the vibrant view outside the car window somehow comforted me during the ongoing long hours of travel. I noticed ourselves getting … [Read more...]
Jose Rizal in Calamba
Co-Authors: Junfil Olarte, Mark Alexander Farrell Calamba in the province of Laguna is one of the most historic places in the Philippines mainly because it serves as the home and birthplace of Jose Rizal, the 19th-century Filipino nationalist and polymath and the national hero of the Philippines. The spirit of his martyrdom and patriotism still lives to this very day ever since at the tail end of the Spanish colonial period in the country. … [Read more...]
A Glimpse Of Davao City
This busy metropolis on the southeastern island of Mindanao is one of the world’s largest cities in terms of land area. Since the 1970s when the city gained the earmark of being the “killing fields” of the Philippines —a “murder city”— Davao has dramatically transformed. But since 1988 it has become the safest city in the country and one of the most livable cities in Asia. Famous as the home turf of once legendary mayor (and now Philippine … [Read more...]
Cliff Diving In Panglao
The island of Panglao is among the most important destinations to see in the Philippines. It is well known for its white powdery sand and clear waters. Specifically located in the north Bohol Sea, in the Central Visayas region, South-Central Philippines, Panglao Island is famous for its diving spots and is routinely listed as one of top ten diving locations in the world. A number of resorts also dot the southern beaches in this island. It … [Read more...]
The Highlands of Bukidnon
The 7,000+ islands in the Philippines have a colorful history painted through the varied cultures of their inhabitants and at times, dramatic history. But the country's unique setting, perhaps, reveals a more interesting story for outdoor travelers. This is especially true for the southern parts of the country including Mindanao, which is home of Bukidnon province. Its topography features an extensive plateau, however its southern and eastern … [Read more...]