Docking at the wharf of Manila reminds me of my first arrival in the city many years ago: the first of many arrivals I have experienced in the Philippine capital. A sunny climate greets me. The sunlight is intense yet reflecting so vibrantly upon the waters of Manila Bay. Over the years, there have been critics moaning about the city - mentioning its smog and chaotic traffic, its crimes, not to mention the voluminous homes (if such can be called … [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.
Revisiting Dapitan: A Hero’s Retreat
Dapitan became famous after the Filipino hero Jose Rizal arrived on its shores more than one hundred years ago. Jose Rizal's colorful exile in this place from 1892 to 1896 has had a very significant role in Dapitan's history making it the ultimate "Shrine City of the Philippines". Perhaps, Rizal is Dapitan and Dapitan itself is eternally tied to Rizal. Without him, this place would never be known the world over and never become one of the most … [Read more...]
Wanderlust In Bohol Paradise
"Life without travel is dull." ~The Author Our racing machine sounds like a roaring thunder on the highest gear dashing through lengthy and paved highway that connects Tagbilaran and its neighboring towns, all in the province of Bohol, Philippine Islands. The 8:00am sun has finally put itself clear after days of frequent rains in the island. I still sense the morning dew leftovers as I ride in next to Lloyd, going to one of the world's … [Read more...]
A Trip To Samar
A soft breezy sunrise rouses me as my ship nears the coast and moors at the docks of Maguino-o, off the city of Calbayog Western Samar in the Central Philippines. Sheer weather of the early morning meets the island's pristine seawaters. And I feel like a sixteenth-century explorer reincarnated. "There you are," I whisper upon sighting the shores of Samar. Believing I could reach the location only through history books. One of the very … [Read more...]
Cebu Paradise, History So Affluent
A surge of Faithful Catholic devotees at the Basilica's prayer sanctuary. The Philippine Islands would never be in its present popularity had it not been for the stroke of luck which led to the discovery of Cebu by the great explorer Fernando Magallanes who first sighted Samar, Cebu's neighboring island, on March 16, 1521. Unlike many of its interesting destinations, this central part of the Philippines certainly does an important milestone … [Read more...]
Treasure Islands Of Carraga
"Traveling to far away places is one best antidote because it heals life pressures; and there are literally countless destinations around the world which would do it. What is more important is that you bring that travel experiences to life--through diaries or photos, or simply by writing them in a story--tell the world about it, and such nostalgic memories will live on." ~The Author Nocturnal Road Adventure The journey starts as I … [Read more...]
Strange Jaunt In Kidapawan: The City Of Highland Springs
Steering through the upland regions of Bukidnon to the highly elevated vicinity of North Cotabato can be the most tedious journey I've ever done in Southern Philippines. The vast land area, long and winding trail had taken us 7 hours to reach the intended destination. Such a wearisome travel was later exchanged with excitement, as we arrived in the city being warmly treated by intimates who, too, were part of the important visit. Situated off … [Read more...]
Spending 104 Days In Singapore
PHOTOS BY WILLIAM CHO International Freelance Photographer, Singapore The 7:30 twilight already swathes the entire vicinity as I amble along and pass through the hallways of Changi Airport. My Singapore Airline flight has not given much of a jet lag. But then, routinely, a worker and a traveller desperately need to move out from the terminal. The intended place is in Jalan Kuang, East View Garden, about 10 minutes away from the Singaporean … [Read more...]
Dapitan: A Living Legacy in the Philippines
Roused from sleep, I sat up. Something was excitingly moving at my seat that afternoon of April 14, 2007. It was 2.30 p.m., and the thrill in the voice of a woman beside me was unmistakable. "Wake up, we're about to arrive!" Over the years, I'm used to travelling to places alone: domestic and foreign. And an easy acquaintance with foreigners isn't new to me. "We must book accommodation to Dakak right away," Sandra, the German tourist … [Read more...]
Philippine Samal Island: A Hidden Paradise in the South
(From the August-September 2009 issue of "Bayang Magiliw" Magazine, Kingdom of Bahrain. Copyright 2009. Used by Permission) The alluring beauty of the Far East is seen not only through its contrasts of culture, lifestyle, and climate. But also through the way nature has brought it into being. It is where the sun rises. It is where oriental charm lives where many travelers have found the most interesting journey experience. Despite the … [Read more...]