Patrick Caldito

@thatguynamedpatrick

Debbie Fortes

@debbiefortes

Geny Baluyot

@genyvb

Gelo Santos

@iamdocgelo

Jay Jackson

@jonathanjackson

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Before you go

 Lose weight before coming to Korea!  The food is so good; it is impossible not to eat a lot! Your clothes will depend on the season of course, though for me the best season to travel is during Autumn. The colors are so vibrant, the wind is cold but not freezing, and the sun is always up. Plus, the OOTD you get to wear during Autumn is superb against the flashes of orange, yellow, red, green and brown!

Must do’s and must see’s 

There are so many places to see and things to do in Korea. Here are some attractions worth checking out.

Gyeongbokgung Palace. Getting to tour the place while also wearing the lovely and dainty Hanbok is a fun experience! You will feel transported to the era of Korean Dynasties.

Myeongdong Shopping District is a must. Try to book your hotel near this area because it will be more convenient. Most tour pick-ups and drop-offs are in Myeongdong. One day is not enough to have a shopping spree in this area. Here, there are thousands of shops, especially those that sell beauty products.  You just might go crazy over facial masks and CC creams! They also have food market stalls that open from 4 pm.

Trick Eye Museum is fun and insta perfect.

DMZ or the Demilitarized Zone – this site gives you a glimpse into one of the longest wars in the world that divided a country. You can see North Korea just behind the fence.

Nami Island, Garden of the Morning Calm – this tour is famous because its seen in a lot of Korean Dramas. Perhaps a little overrated for me – though in Autumn, it would be nice to see. Not in the wintertime, however.

What to avoid

 Korea is very safe, and the people here are very helpful. Although speaking English is difficult for most, people try their very best to assist.

One thing to take note of is that they are very strict about health declarations here. Thus, if you are not feeling well and have the flu, I advise you to postpone your travel. Customs officers at the airport might stop you at the quarantine area in immigration. Moreover, they are also very particular with trash segregation all throughout the country. Be very aware of which waste basket you put your trash in. Littering and not segregating trash properly is frowned upon.  You may even be reprimanded.

On public transport, seats are allotted to pregnant women and the elderly. Do not take these seats.

Traveling on a budget

Haha, no saving tips in travel, and not in Korea. Go all out, shop, eat, and enjoy your matcha tea! If I would say one thing, take the train not taxis. The train is genuinely the best way to travel, and it doesn’t cost that much. They are efficient, on time, and very clean.

Best foods and places to eat

Korean food is very distinct. Ranging from spicy to sweet, the food presentation is also insta perfect! Try their cakes and breads; they are to die for!

Soft Tofu Stew or Soondubu Jigae – usually cooked in an earthen pot, with soft tofu much like taho in a delicious fish stock base with little beef. Then you get to add shellfish, hot pepper, eggs, beef strips.

Ox Bone soup or Seolleongtang is extremely popular in Korea. They boil the beef bones for hours on end to release the calcium, which gives the soup a very distinct white color. This is the beefiest tasting soup you can ever have (our nilaga/bulalo version but with a white non-clear soup base).

Tteokbokki – streets of Korea are filled with this white cylindrical rice cake. It comes with a variety of sauces – spicy, sweet, etc. It’s like the Philippines’ galapong with sauces – Koreans are crazy about this!

Chicken Porridge or the Dakjuk – very similar to our arrozcaldo, however, they serve it with a whole chicken and the rice is inside the chicken. The soup base bursts with garlic flavor.

Korean Fried Chicken – forget about KFC! When you bite into the chicken, you will be surprised by the amount of flavor it has. The chicken is coated in a sticky, sweet, and spicy red sauce, while the batter is unbelievably crispy. This is a must-try.

Bibimbap – bibim means mixed, and bap means rice, thus the name. This is served with a spicy red Korean sauce called gochujang, rice with lots of veggies, beef, and an egg on top. It is impossible not to be addicted to this.

Hidden Gems

Check out the lovely parks in Seoul. There are no entrance fees, and they’re clean as well as insta perfect. Moreover, eat at restaurants along the streets, rather than at fancy restaurants because they truly serve the best. Street food is clean and so fun as well. Visit the little local shops you see along the road, including the traditional tea houses – they serve many types of teas – both cold and hot. Another shopping destination to visit is the Terminal Bus Station (take the train from Myeongdong, or any other train station). The whole underground section is full of clothing stores.

Kabayan comforts

I don’t get to see a lot of kabayans, but they do have communities at the churches. They usually have picnics as well as a Filipino market every Sunday near the Catholic Church in downtown Seoul. There they sell a lot of Filipino food and products as well.

Other essential info

If you come in winter, try the Ski camps. There are ski camps near Seoul and mountains you can drive to for fantastic views in autumn or spring. For skiing, travelers can experience the hugely popular resort culture. Resorts are equipped with everything you can dream of (even an indoor swimming pool for winter). They offer basic and advanced ski lessons.

If you choose to visit the mountain ranges during spring and cherry blossom season, this time of the year is also breathtakingly beautiful. It usually lasts just for a week or two so better watch out in advance for predicted bloom time. You will also get to taste, cherry blossom tea, cherry blossom flavored coffee, red bean cake with lovely cherry blossom decor.

It’s very important to remember that on your trip, emphasis should be placed on having fun and experiencing the culture. Try not to overbook your day with so many things to the point that you don’t have enough time to enjoy the place. Sit under a tree, feel the breeze, close your eyes, and look at the dainty flowers on the green grass. Try to have friendly conversations with the locals. Who knows, you might even get an extra discount (I always get away with freebies and discounts just by smiling and saying kamsahamnida).

Lastly, learn one or two basic Korean greetings like “annyeong” and “kamsahamnida.” It is just nice and polite for a foreigner to know the basic way of saying thank you and hello in the local language.

Dr. Rebecca Desiderio lived in Seoul for a year with her family, while her husband worked for an airline based in Korea. Having the privilege for R&R and time to travel as a stay at home working-mom, she was able to experience life in Seoul to the fullest through her many adventures and experiences.

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Related Article: Travel Tips from Locals in Your Fave Cities – Tokyo Japan

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100MIFG honoree, global citizen and blogger Joseph Alcantara is the man behind the Emirates group’s Marketing Communications for the Middle East region and southern Europe.

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www.mpqtourism.com

Since: 2013

Founder: Malou Guinto – Prado

MPQ tourism stands out among the most well-known travel and tours agencies serving the Filipino community in the UAE. With a range of client services spanning international airline ticketing, visa services, travel insurance, hotel bookings, travel packages, customized travel itineraries, tour services and more, MPQ Tourism guarantees a smooth travel experience for its customers – providing services beyond expectations.

Always delivering, MPQ Tourism has catered to a rapidly expanding clientele since its 2013 opening, providing top of the line service and always completing set goals and business objectives. Their strong presence within the market facilitated the expansion of the company from the UAE to the USA, with branches across Dubai, and Las Vegas.  MPQ has also bagged a the partnership with the Dubai Aviation Corporation (Fly Dubai) among many other merits. They have received various accolades since their opening, including Best Travel Agency at the Middle East Hospitality Excellence Awards for three consecutive years.

Founder Malou Guinto – Prado is an accomplished entrepreneur with expertise within the travel and tourism field. Through her initiatives, she has led the MPQ team in developing a work ethic focused on strong customer service. With dedication and hard work, she strives to build MPQ into a globally known brand that caters to all travelers Filipino and otherwise, while hoping to inspire future entrepreneurs.

Her formula for success emphasizes several considerations. First, she encourages entrepreneurs to understand their competition well, analyzing the strengths and weaknesses of their market and their company. Knowing the customers comes in next. As customer expectations change rapidly, Malou puts importance on always keeping up with their needs. Differentiation comes in third: “It’s essential to give customers good reasons to come to us rather than a rival. We develop a unique selling point that taps into what they want. It should be clear and obvious – no-one should have to ask what makes us different.”

Malou and the MPQ team actively practice the art of effective marketing, striking good relationships with their clientele at every opportunity. “Our principle is if we keep our customers happy, they will eventually give us more customers through word of mouth.” And with the rapid development of social media and the internet, she believes opportunities can be seized within arm’s length.

ANGEL WINGS INTERNATIONAL

www.angelwingsinternational.net

Since: 2018

Founder: Ellanie Villena

Angel Wings International is a prime travel, events, and lifestyle management agency that places customer satisfaction at its core by catering to its international clientele through unparalleled service. By keeping a close eye on various tourism trends within the market, the company continually innovates through its offers on business and leisure travel to provide clients with a wide range of solutions. Founder Ellanie Villena shares, “Planning, developing and adapting destination resources to the evolving needs of the market is the key to success.”

KING FISHER TOURS

www.kingfisherdubai.com

Since: 2013

Founder: Richie Ernie Bato

The first Filipino-owned chartering company in the UAE, King Fisher Tours Leisure Yachts & Boats Rental LLC is dedicated to serving fishing enthusiasts and anglers alike – offering a wide roster of services including shared and private fishing trips, cruising tours, marine services, and boat utility services. With customer satisfaction as a top priority, founder Richie Ernie Bato shares “We are a full-time professional charter service with you – our clients – in mind, believing in our clients’ needs and providing the best prices and best services.”

TIME TRAVEL TOURISM

www.timetraveltourism.com

Since: 2015

 Founder: Jocelyn Del Monte Reyes

With more than a decade of experience within the hospitality industry, Jocelyn Reyes established Time Travel Tourism in 2015. Carpe Diem is their tagline, and with it, they provide prompt service to a multitude of clients with tailor-made packages to suit a variety of needs and requirements. With representatives all over the Philippine islands, Time Travel Tourism also seeks to market the Philippines as a travel destination by closely working with agencies across the region.

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Before you go

Before visiting any new country in general, travelers should prepare for a couple of things. For one, prepare for the weather. Ireland is called the ‘Emerald Isle’ by many because it’s so green – and this is because it rains pretty frequently. So, bring a raincoat. As for winter, pack some heavy clothing options, and lighter ones for summer. Jackets are always a must! Travelers should also know a little bit about the country itself. Being aware of Irish culture, customs, and rules comes in very handy.

Must do’s and must see’s

Coastlines, cliffs, mountains and long walks – we have it all! If you love nature, Ireland is the place to go! There are numerous walking/hiking/bike tours that allow you to explore the city and its natural wonders in a more active and surreal way (activities like this can be found here: www.visitdublin.com/). Aside from this, you can take the boat and visit quaint coastal towns like Dalkey and Howth in Dublin bay for a truly beautiful daytrip escape. Traditional pubs, small towns, and castles are definitely to not be missed.

What to be aware of

As a travel enthusiast, I’d say never avoid anything! As long as you are being a smart and mindful visitor, being open to new things by fully immersing yourself wherever you go helps you enjoy your stay even more. Do be aware however that it rains all year round.

Besides, Irish people are great craic (fun)! You will always be greeted with a smile, some of the friendliest and most empathetic people I have come across. I’ve never felt like I was an outsider to the country – they are an unreal bunch!

Traveling on a budget

Typically, city-center prices are more expensive. One tip for travelers on a tighter budget would be to visit smaller towns and villages near Dublin. So, hop on a bus or a train and visit a small town like Malahide, north of Dublin. Home to the picturesque Malahide Castle, you could definitely spend a relaxed day here getting lost in the lush green spaces. While here, you can also visit the waterfront part of Malahide by foot and get your grub at the local pubs and cafés. Alongside this, always compare prices, and make sure you get the best possible deals in hotels, food, tours, and even at pubs. You can save money by packing your own little nibbles when traveling.

How to get around

Dublin has a good bus system and a couple of tram/railway lines. However, walking brings you pretty much everywhere. Walking provides you with that authentic active Irish lifestyle, and brings you closer to the locals.

Best foods and places to eat

Spuds! Irish people have a great love for their spuds (potatoes). This is the number one ingredient for the best Irish stews, fish pies, and shepherd’s pies, along with bacon and cabbage. Traditional chippers (places that serve fish and chips), local pubs, and fresh food markets are aplenty in Dublin, and grabbing some food at these places is the best way to introduce yourself to the local palate.

Hidden Gems

One word – pints! Not a place, but an activity. There are many interesting nooks across the city that deserve to be explored, but having a pint is the absolute best way to socialize with the locals – an activity often left out of a visitor’s itinerary. You get to speak to anyone and everyone once you set foot in a pub.

Best time to visit

It all boils down to you, and your preference. Every season provides you with the opportunity to experience Ireland in different ways. If you’re a lover of the cold, autumn and winter, if you’re looking for milder temperatures, spring and summer.

Kabayan Comforts

In every city, town, and county there is a Filipino presence. You will never run out of activities, and home comforts as they still practice our ways. Communities are welcoming to new members and will never let a kabayan be left behind.

Gilbert Reid is a former Dubai-based resident who is now based in Dublin, Ireland. Working as a freelance makeup artist, he is also an avid explorer and fashion enthusiast.

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Visiting LA is like seeing the rest of the world without taking a plane – it truly is a microcosm of our planet in terms of food, culture, and people. Home to a vibrant food-truck culture, breathtaking beaches, contemporary architecture, epic theme parks, and of course, the center of world entertainment – Hollywood, travelers will always have something fun to do in LA.

Los Angeleno Girlie Ellsworth shares her top travel tips for when it comes to visiting the So-Cal destination. “Living in LA, you get to talk and mingle with people from different walks of life. One can experience the sheer diversity of culture here just through trying out ethnic cuisines. You might even find yourself gyrating to the sound of the tambourine in a Middle Eastern restaurant while enjoying lamb and couscous – that’s LA for you!”

Must do’s and must see’s 

There is a little of everything for everyone. For the moviegoer in you, LA offers Universal Studios and other Theme Parks. Be lost amidst props and settings of your favorite movies and sitcoms.

If you feel like having an easy day, take the six-hour LA tour. Glamorous neighborhoods, iconic landmarks, eateries, shops, skyscraper, and famous homes of the stars are among the many attractions seen on these tours. If this isn’t for you, hop on board a double-decker bus tour at your own pace, thanks to the convenient schedule from 24-48-72-hour ticket options and departures.

Walk for two hours and get the feel of the city. This is great for cardio and allows visitors to explore historic Downtown Los Angeles. Visit architectural sites from the Golden Era of Hollywood. Immerse yourself in the colorful graffiti, indulge in a snack from a food truck vendor, and chat with the friendly locals. If you’re the athletic type and love to get a good workout, there is the hike/walk path in Griffith Park. You can also discover the Hollywood Sign, Griffith Observatory, and Greek Theatre, among other things. You will also hear beautiful music coming from the Hollywood Bowl. This is truly an enriching cultural experience.

Best foods and places to eat

For your palate, there are numerous authentic ethnic restaurants featuring just about as many countries in the globe. Some well-visited places are Porto’s Bakery, a family-run Cuban Bakery, which is a favorite amongst us Pinoys. This spot makes for a nice quick stop for lunch. Try their sandwiches and potato balls and end the meal with your choice of sweets like the guava roll. Moreover, there is the Grand Central Market that offers a variety of authentic food from tacos, falafel, curries; basically, anything your taste buds desire.

Kabayan Comforts

In case you miss Filipino food, they have the Sari-Sari Store – a Filipino concept restaurant. They feature rice bowls for breakfast and lunch. There is also the historic Filipino Town, a great neighborhood dining adventure. To simply describe what LA has to offer to an outsider is too hard of a task, as there is simply too much to mention. The best way for travelers to find out what LA is like is by being where the action is. Come and discover the adventure that awaits in our City of Angels, Los Angeles, California.

Los Angeleno Girlie Ellsworth says “Living in LA, you get to talk and mingle with people from different walks of life. One can experience the sheer diversity of culture here just through trying out ethnic cuisines. You might even find yourself gyrating to the sound of the tambourine in a Middle Eastern restaurant while enjoying lamb and couscous – that’s LA for you!”

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Previous Article: Travel Tips from Locals in your Favorite Cities: Singapore

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Grace, a senior lecturer-mentor at the Institute of Technical Education School of Nursing, and Larry Angel, a teacher at the Raffles Girls’ Secondary School, together with their three children migrated to Singapore 14 years ago.  Here they tell us about the best of the best in their city and how to make the most of a holiday there, whether you are just passing by for a short trip, or staying to relax.

Before you go

Singapore is a very humid country.  We only have two seasons – rainy and dry.  Light clothing is a must during the summer season. Walking shoes are also necessary in Singapore, as we usually walk longer distances.

Must do’s and must see’s

When in Singapore, visit museums like the Bicentennial Experience at Fort Canning.  The museum was built to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the arrival of Sir Stamford Raffles to Singapore in 1819.

Part of the essential Singapore holiday trip is a visit to Resorts World Sentosa, to see the many park attractions which could take you days to cover; the Marina Bay Sands with its world-famous Skypark; Jewel Mall which houses the tallest indoor waterfall; Gardens By the Bay a fantastic nature park; and the Singapore Flyer.

What to avoid

Singapore is a safe place.  This is the reason why my family migrated, especially for my visually impaired son, who thankfully, can travel around Singapore alone.  Public transport is very accessible, and all places are disabled-friendly.  My only advice for travelers is to make sure you stay hydrated.

Traveling on a budget

To save on money when you travel to Singapore, I highly recommend eating at hawker centers instead of restaurants and mall food courts.  There are so many of these centers around the city offering an amazing variety of fresh-cooked food at great prices!  Instead of using taxis, take the bus or the MRT.  The MRT, in fact, is the best way to go around the city.

To buy souvenirs, go to Chinatown, Bugis Street and 24 Hours Mustafa Shopping Centre.  You’ll be spoilt for choice.  Even better, if you are coming specifically for shopping, visit during the Great Singapore Sale (GSS) from May to June.

Best foods and places to eat

If you’re here only for a short visit, make sure you visit these areas to have a fill of local favorites – Makansutra, Lau Pa Sat (satay street sauce), Maxwell Road and Chinatown.  All of these spots are near the usual tourist spots like Esplanade and Chinatown.

If you have the time, you can also try theses highly regarded food centers.  Do expect long queues but it’s definitely worth the trouble.  Meals cost between SGD$3.00 to $5.00 – Old Airport Road Hawker Centre for prawn mee, lor mee (lomi), rojak, char kway teow (stir-fry fried flat noodles); Tiong Bahru Market for chee kuay (rice cake) and curry rice; Katong Shopping Centre for chicken rice (delicious Hainanese boneless chicken), katong laksa and laksa.

Hidden gems

These places and activities are not as popular as the usual touristic haunts, but they are highly recommended – hiking at the McRitchie Reservoir and Southern Ridges; fishing and prawning at Orto (near Khatib MRT); a visit to the Singapore Botanic Gardens; watching free concerts and other performances at the Esplanade.

Best time to visit

Singapore is great for holidays all your round.  But you might also want to time your trip to coincide with some of the most festive periods in the city.  These include Chinese New Year period – January to February, National Day – August, Formula 1 Night Race – September and Deepavali Festival of Lights – November.  Stay for at least 5-7 days, so you really get to visit all the key places and get a good feel of the city.

Kabayan comforts

If you’re feeling homesick or in need of Filipino comforts, go to Lucky Plaza on Orchard Road which is the definitive Pinoy hideout in Singapore.  Eat at Jollibee various branches around the city or Iskina Lechon (Ayer Raja).

Every Sunday morning, head out to your nearest basketball courts to see our ‘kabayan Lebron James wannabees.’ Around the city, there are also Filipinos performing in bands, and choirs like the Filipino Voice Symphony (FVS) where I am a member.  Every December, the Filipino community attends Simbang Gabi at 8PM in various churches around the city.

Grace, a senior lecturer-mentor at the Institute of Technical Education School of Nursing, and Larry Angel, a teacher at the Raffles Girls’ Secondary School, together with their three children migrated to Singapore 14 years ago.

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www.tangereapp.com 

Established Since: January 1, 2018 

Founder: Martin Xavier Peñaflor

While market data is instrumental to the research and development facet of companies, it is not the most obtainable considering the high price traditional market research companies often charge for it. Undermining this reality is Tangere App. Empowering Small and Medium Enterprises (SME’s), Tangere App provides affordable and real-time market research. For companies that can’t afford the typical PhP1-2 million price, one can have access to the results of nationwide studies that include over 1,800 respondents for as low as PhP70,000. They have also invested in the ‘Rolls-Royce’ of Business Intelligence, Tableau Analytics, to deliver interactive data analytics to their customers based on the results of the market research. Founded by Martin Penaflor, Tangere facilitates the collection of data via mobile application. Based on incentives, respondents can earn points by voting for different survey items available in the app, which in turn can be used to win in raffle draws and for points redemption.

As the chief architect of Tangere App, Martin was an internationally certified business process consultant for SME’s and Large Enterprises from multiple industries before starting the company together with friends from the Market Research and Data Analytics industries. “Our main goal as a company is to provide the same competitive advantage, formerly enjoyed by large enterprises to SME’s. For our Tangere community, providing an alternative platform for them to express their opinions on key issues in the Philippines and at the same time giving them the chance to win items and redeem points is our main priority,” Martin expresses.

Officially launched via Google Play Store in May of 2018, Tangere App has grown immensely. The company currently has 70,000 subscribers purely by word of mouth and has graced the number one spot multiple times on the Google Play trending list. Moreover, they have closed deals with various SME’s in the food and manufacturing industries in the Philippines – namely Gerry’s Grill and Pampanga’s Best – and their survey results have been presented all over mainstream media including CNN, Philippines Star, and ABS-CBN news.

TRIPZEEKER

www.tripzeeker.com

Established Since: 2017 

Founder: Kim Co Lim

These days, finding smart ways to save money has never been easier, thanks to platforms like TripZeeker. This online meta-search engine allows travelers to compare the prices of numerous tours, activities, and attraction passes for where they’re going. When using TripZeeker, all you have to do is search for tours on the website. You’ll then be given a list of all the available tours with prices from the partner websites based on the keyword typed – it’s that simple. Currently, TripZeeker has aggregated over 85,000+ tours from across the globe. The startup was also featured on regional and local media platforms like CNN Philippines, INC. Southeast Asia, Vietnam Finance, TechShake Asia, Today Singapore, and Entrepreneur Asia Pacific.

Founder of TripZeeker, Kim Co Lim was a former stockbroker at Maybank ATR Kim Eng Securities, and RCBC Securities, Inc. She holds a BS in Management Accounting and has a diploma from the Ateneo Graduate School of Business – having completed a Certified Securities Specialist Course. She is also an Ambassador for the Philippines in the Asia Pacific MSME Trade Coalition (AMTC), and in an NGO based in Singapore. Aside from Kim’s comprehensive background in business, she is a travel aficionado at heart – and with this passion, aims to make TripZeeker the leading travel website in the Philippines and the most significant international tour comparison platform.

Elaborating on her aspirations as a founder, Kim shares: “I aspire to create a travel-based marketplace that enables travelers to browse, compare and book from millions of travel options related to tours, activities, and packages. And to have the opportunity to reshape harmony in the global travel ecosystem by helping travelers to discover the best travel deals and help local tour operators to have more reach online. Being one of the best travel destinations in Southeast Asia, the Philippines is truly world-class, and we should have our own leading travel website. With the help of people who believe in our vision, it’s not far-fetched.”

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Known for its centuries-old architecture, exciting nightlife, and delectable cuisine, Hanoi, Vietnam is one dynamic destination that reveals something new to travelers with each visit. As one of the world’s most ancient capitals, the eclectic mishmash of old and new in plain sight is truly one of a kind. At the heart of Hanoi, tourists can discover some well-preserved museums and colonial buildings – including the Temple of Literature – making it a fantastic place to explore by foot. However, just a short ride away from Hanoi’s city center is its lush countryside. Here, travelers can escape the hustle and bustle of the city center by driving by picturesque rivers – like the famous Ha Long Bay – verdant landscapes, and charming villages. Living here since 2017 and working as a communications specialist for the CGIAR Research Program on Climate Change, Agriculture, and Food Security, Eisen Bernardo shares travel tips from the perspective of a Hanoian.

Before you go

Hanoi is a very laidback city. However, the weather can be crazy. From April to August, it can be very hot and rainy at the same time. So, do not forget to bring comfortable clothes. During the winter season (late November to February), the temperature can go down to as low as 12 degrees. A jacket is essential during this time.

Must do’s and must see’s

Hanoi is known worldwide for its delicious food. Having a food trip in the streets of Hanoi is a must. Tourists should try at least five traditional Vietnamese dishes. Drinking is also a favored pastime here. There are many IG-worthy cafés around the city center as well as in West Lake. Visitors should also try to drink in a Bia Hoi (a streetside draught beer restaurant).

As for cultural attractions, there are numerous temples (like the Temple of Literature); museums (I highly recommend the Museum of Fine Arts and the Ethnology Museum); landmarks (check the Flag Tower, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Citadel of Thang Long, St. Joseph Cathedral, and Long Bien Bridge); lakes (Hoan Kiem and Tay Ho); and of course, shows (water puppet and the bamboo circus at the Opera House).

What to avoid

Hanoi is relatively safe compared to other major cities in Southeast Asia. But, I recommend that tourist should refrain from riding cyclos (bicycle taxis) and some regular taxis. I experienced overpriced rides before.

Traveling on a budget

There are many boutique hotels in Hanoi that provide excellent service – some even offer free breakfasts. Book there and not at expensive hotels. Also, eat and drink in streetside restaurants and bars – not only is food highly affordable in these places, but you get to experience authentic Vietnamese cuisine. Moreover, install transport apps (i.e., Grab, GoViet, Be) for more fixed fares.

How to get around

Vietnam is a motorcycle country. Renting a motorbike for a day can only cost you 5 to 10 USD. It gives you a real taste of what it’s like being a Hanoian. You can also get into the narrow alleys in the Old Quarters (which is the city’s center) very easily.

Best foods and places to eat

My personal favorites are bún chả (barbecued pork with rice vermicelli); bánh mì (Vietnamese sandwich); bún cả (fish noodles); bánh cuốn (steamed rice rolls); pho (Vietnamese noodles), and of course chả cá (grilled fish with dill and turmeric). Hang Dao Street is considered the one-stop food street in Hanoi. Also, try Vietnamese coffee (egg coffee, coconut coffee). Streetside restaurants and cafés are just everywhere in Hanoi. As long as you are not picky, you will discover a lot in terms of food. Additionally, visit Ta Hien (which is known as Beer Street). There are numerous streetside bars there serving great drinks and finger foods.

Hidden Gems

• Ride a motorbike along the mosaic wall
• Lotte Tower Viewing Deck
• Go to Au Co flower market at night
• Visit art cafés/gallery (like Manzi)
• Visit the Trinh Cong Son walking street in West Lake
• Eat in a Vietnamese buffet restaurant

Best time to visit 

November to January is the best time of year to visit because it’s cooler. Walking around Hanoi can be so much fun. And of course, you will enjoy eating and drinking is more enjoyable with cold weather.

Kabayan comforts

There is a Pinoy restaurant in West Lake serving traditional Filipino dishes. There are also Catholic/Christian churches where you have the opportunity of meeting other Filipinos in Hanoi. The Philippine Embassy in Hanoi is also in the city center and just walking distance from the famous Bun Cha Obama restaurant.

Living here since 2017, Eisen Bernardo works as a communications specialist for the CGIAR Research Program on Climate Change, Agriculture, and Food Security.

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I moved here to Norway in 2013 together with my four friends. We came as nurses from Aklan Cooperative Mission Hospital. I recall that an agency was looking for workers in Norway, and I always wanted to go abroad and work for a better salary, so I jumped at the opportunity right away.

Tell us about where you live. What is the place famous for? Are there any notable landmarks, sites, etc. What do you like and not like about living there?

I currently live in Kjeller, a village located near Lillestrøm in the municipality of Skedsmo. It’s located 25 kilometers north-east of Oslo (Oslo is the capital of Norway). Kjeller is famous for its airport as the world oldest airport with an air battalion, international flight academy and aircraft production. It’s home to the biggest annual airshow in the country too! I love it here because it’s so peaceful. There’s no pollution, no crime, and you can enjoy all four seasons of the year. The only catch is that everything here is expensive.

Tell us about your life there.  What do you do for a living?  What do you do for relaxation?  Describe a typical week. What’s the typical lifestyle over there?

My life here is quite active. Besides working weekly, I have a Filipino show band, D’Goodvibes, and we play for different events during different occasions. I’m also a photographer specializing in portraits, events and landscapes. Each year, I go on a hiking trip with my colleague. We even reached the country’s higest peak, Galdhøpiggen. I’m a music enthusiast, so I also jump at the opportunity to see my favorite bands perform at concerts. When I’m free, I play table tennis, go fishing, listen to music or work in a nursing home. A typical lifestyle here involves working throughout the week, and by Friday or Saturday, go out for a drink and have fun with family and friends.

What are the main cultural differences between there and the Philippines?

Filipino culture has a tighter focus on family relationships compared to the people here. They send money to their family in the Philippines and loved ones. Norwegians are also more independent at an early age, and when they land a job, they perform differently than us Filipinos. Norwegian laws are strict, and I admire the people for being law abiding citizens and well-mannered people. For example, cars slow down when the drivers see someone crossing the street (which is quite the opposite than what we’re used to in the Philippines).

How were you able to adjust to the culture? Did you pick up anything new (practices, life lessons, etc). Do you still observe Filipino customs and traditions?

We Filipinos are famous for being one of the most widespread nationalities around the world. I just did what everyone else did and put my mind towards adjustment. The culture here wasn’t extremely different from what I’m used to, but I eventually had to abide by the laws of this country and practice being independent more often (especially since I lived alone). I’ve always been a fan of Viking culture and history, and my appreciation for it helped me adjust here faster.

I love doing things on my own but being in a foreign country is a different story. People here like to have their space and privacy (while also being approachable). One thing I learned here is that you have to speak out of you want to address something. People here will speak directly if you have done good or bad here. They don’t tolerate if things go the other way. I also learned that, when going to gatherings on occasion, we as guests have to bring alcoholic drinks as a form of contribution. Along the way, I’ve taught myself photography. My friends used to say “ano na naman yan, picture picture na naman?” When we were walking as I was always behind taking photos of something.

I still observe and practice Filipino customs and traditions here. I love cooking native Pinoy dishes as nothing beats “kanin at ulam’. Norwegians eat a lot of bread and potatoes. I do the same but not often. Each year, we still celebreate Christmas and new year like it was in the Philippines. If you’re the ninong or ninang, then you are bound to give gifts and pamasko to your inaanak.

What advice would you give to Filipinos who want to move there? Give at least 3 tips.

To my fellow kababayans who want to move here, my first tip is to be mentally, emotionally and physically prepared for the country. Being away from our loved ones is one of the worst feelings to experience. A lot of people have depression here, especially during the winter. I had winter depression every year up until now as I still live alone. The environment is also difficult to deal with here, so being physically fit is a must. This country has four seasons, and people tend to get sick in the winter.

My second tip is to learn the language thoroughly as a language certification is required for you to get a job. I was a licensed nurse in the Philippines, but it’s not credited here in Norway. The country has high standards with education and work, so almost everyone here is a professional. Because of tax, education is free.

Norway has four seasons (summer, spring, autumn and winter). Each season differs also in temperature and clothing requirements, so be prepared! There is a famous saying here “Det finnes ikke dårlig vær, bare dårlig klær!” which translates to “There is no bad weather, only bad clothes!”

 How about Filipinos who want to travel there? Also give 3 tips. 

To my fellow kababayans who want to travel her, I’m sure you’ll enjoy Norway! Here ae some tips to help you out:

1. Do as much research as you can. It’s always good to be prepared before going to a country. One essential thing to know is which season you are going in, in order to prepare the right clothing for yourself. Spring is from March to May, summer is from June to August, autumn is from September to November and winter is from December to February.
2. Know which part of the country you’re going to and which sights to see. Norway has lots of mountains, valleys, waterfalls and lakes that attract tourists from all around the world. Travelling in Oslo will show you famous landmarks like the palace, where the king and queen reside, Vigelands park (the nude sculpture park) and the Viking Ship Museum. Along the coasts of the Norwegian peninsula, lighthouses are go to spots for tourists. One of them is the Lindesnes Fyr (Lindesnes lighthouse), which stands at the southernmost part of the country. Famous hiking spots and landscapes dot the west and northern areas of the country, like Preikestolen, Besseggen, Romsdalsseggen, Trollstigen, Trolltunga, Kjeragbolten, Galdøpiggen, Rondane and the famous Lofoten Islands. Don’t forget the Aurora Borealis (northern lights), which are visible during winter season up north.
3. Norway is one of the most expensive countries to travel to and live in. Coming from the Philippines, you might be shocked to know how expensive ordinary food is. Instead of staying at an expensive hotel, try booking an Airbnb. It’s also good to buy food and drink from grocery stores and prepare your own meals (like sandwiches) for tours.

What’s your message to Filipinos across the world?

As an OFW, I know we have to sacrifice, but we only live once, so enjoy life! Do what you love and lova what you do. Success comes through the things we love and pursue. Don’t let people tell you how to live your life and let go of the things that drag you down, cheers!

ADDITIONAL: can you share any links to useful online resources that can help future travelers with your host country? Example: tourism office, tourist destinations and more. Please include the link to the Philippine Embassy or Consulate General

Here are some important links you can visit when traveling to Norway. It features almost all the information needed upon visiting this country.

https://www.visitoslo.com

https://www.visitnorway.no

https://en.visitbergen.com

https://visittrondheim.no

https://lofoten.info/lofoten

https://www.norway-lights.com/#

https://www.philembassy.no

https://english.dnt.no

Lit Nacabuan has been living in Norway since 2013, working as a professional nurse. When not working, he plays as part of a Filipino band (D’Goodvibes)

Filipino Norway: My Pinoy Life in Mosjoen

SALVACION VALERA VALDERAMA

City:  Mosjøen, Norway

Since when have you been staying there?  Can you recount briefly why you moved there?

I migrated to Norway in July 1986 after receiving an offer to work as a nurse here. It was a very difficult decision since I had to leave my relatives, friends and family, especially husband and my son who was only two years and four months at that time.

I moved to Norway first. And then after five months my husband and my son came to join me. I originally got a contract for a year and had the option of renewing it, if I wanted to. We thought of staying here in Norway for only three years but as years went by, we came to like and love the country. We are enjoying life here.

Luckily, I have two older sisters, and my older brother also working as nurses, who all live in Oslo. They are married to Filipinos, as well. My husband is working in ALCOA, an American company producing aluminum. We have three children – all boys (27, 22 and 15 years old).

Tell us about your adoptive home

Norway, one of the four Scandinavian countries where Denmark, Sweden and Finland are included, is known as “The Land of the Vikings” and the “Land of the Midnight Sun.”

Norway is a country located in Northern Europe on the western and northern part of the Scandinavian Peninsula, bordering the North Sea in southwest and the Skagerrak inlet to the south, the North Atlantic Ocean (Norwegian Sea) in the west and the Barents Sea to the northeast. Norway, which has four seasons, has a long land border with Sweden to the east, a shorter one with Finland in the northeast and a still shorter border with Russia in the far northeast. Norway has a very elongated shape, one of the longest and most rugged coastlines in the world, and some 50,000 islands off the much indented coastline.

Norway is one of the world’s most northerly countries, and one of Europe’s most mountainous countries with large areas dominated by the Scandinavian Mountains; average elevation is 460 m and 32% of the mainland is located above the tree line.

 It is a very rich country ruled by a monarchy and has a very high standard of living. The country is strong in the field of oil production and is considered as one of the biggest oil producers in the world. Norway is also known for salmon exportation to countries all over the globe.

Norway, whose capital is Oslo, is divided into 19 different provinces which have their distinct physical features, cultures and dialects.

We live in the northern part of Norway, in Mosjøen, a part of Helgeland community and Nordland County. Mosjøen is known for the historic street of Sjøgata which constitutes Northern Norway’s largest collection of preserved 19th century wooden buildings.  Around 100 historic buildings are taken cared of as part of the pulsating city life.

The residents of Mosjøen are proud of their old town and will gladly show it to visitors. Walking through the area, you will find architectural gems and building preservation of class, including Wenches Keramikkverksted (ceramic studio), Atelier Marit K. Skog, Kulturverkstedet (the cultural workshop), Vikgården landhandel og kaffebu (general store and café), Ferdinand Restaurant, Espira Coffeebar, Fru Haugans Hotel, a guest marina and much more. Helgeland Museum’s own warehouse building in Sjøgata featuring exhibitions, which is spread over three floors, is also worth a visit.

Generally, Norwegian people are friendly and I love to see the different national costumes they wear during special occasions, especially on National Day.

Is there a Filipino community there?      

We have a Filipino association here at our place, but it is not so big because we are not that many here. I live in a small community where the total population is almost 15,000. Here, there are only 16 Filipinos, including myself.

There are an estimated 9,000 Filipinos living in Norway and most of them are living in the Oslo urban area. Most of them are females – about 76 percent of the total community’s population.

The first time I came, it was quite boring for me. But I think that’s quite natural when you are new to a certain place, especially during the period of adjustment. The lifestyle here is totally different, as compared to life in the Philippines.

What cultural practices/behaviors have you acquired from your host country?

There are a lot of good Norwegian practices that I have actually acquired. Here, we greet each other even if we are not friends. We take our shoes off we enter a home, leaving them at the entrance/door.  We also only eat a heavy meal once a day when we come home from work.

People consider each other as equals here, and I really love it. Skiing is a very common activity here since Norway is a land of snow. Unluckily, however, I don’t get to ski very often. My family has become accustomed to the Norwegian language, especially my children, but my husband and I talk in Tagalog and my native dialect – Ilocano, when at home. My children are also familiar with Tagalog and conversational Ilocano.

Your greeting to Filipino across the globe

I am very proud to be a Filipino working in Norway. Even if i have lived here in Norway for so many years, my heart and my thoughts are still in the Philippines.

I love the Philippines!  Mabuhay!  Long live the Philippines!

Hello kababayans around the globe!

The post Filipino Norway: My Pinoy Life in Kjeller with Lit Nacabuan appeared first on Illustrado Magazine - Filipino Abroad.