GDansk & Sopot, Poland (May 2018)
Gdansk This is the pier city in which two important events in history transpired: 1) the invasion by the German army in Westerplatte, which marked the beginning of World War II, and 2) the formation and operation of the largest independent trade union Solidarność—its leader, Lech Walésa served as Poland’s first president after its independence from the Soviet bloc. It carries a reminder of the … Continue reading GDansk & Sopot, Poland (May 2018)
Vienna, Austria (May 2018)
“When will you realize: Vienna waits for you?” Having listened to this song a couple of months back, I was excited to realize this romanticized notion of escape from reality. I finally did, and I realized that to romanticize this city was simply to regard it for what it is. Vienna was as pompous and elegant as I thought it to be, rightfully revered by … Continue reading Vienna, Austria (May 2018)
Prague, Czech Republic (May 2018)
Prague generously took me back in time as structures dating over ten centuries back still stood erect and majestic. Exploring the city by foot was preferable, as every corner was adorned with intricate ornamentation, telling unfamiliar stories about kings, queens, artists, gypsies, all distant characters I’ve only come to know in books and movies. A couple of main points of interest: Old Town Square. Crowded … Continue reading Prague, Czech Republic (May 2018)
Budapest, Hungary (May 2018)
Two days was enough for me to explore the city. As this trip went after my visit to Prague, I was a little less enchanted because of the similarities between the two cities but a little more relieved that there are significantly lesser tourists. There was more room to slow down, walk leisurely, and take in the sights. The streets were less frenetic. I wasn’t … Continue reading Budapest, Hungary (May 2018)
A Renaissance in Europe
Last month, I went on a four-week trip to Eastern Europe, with Kraków, Poland as a base, and explored nearby countries during weekends. I was alone half the time, with the remaining half spent with either the primary school students I was assigned to teach (as volunteer of a project), or my dearest roommates (who are volunteers, as well). One of the lines of literature … Continue reading A Renaissance in Europe
The Holocaust History of Krakow, A Virtual Tour (May 2018)
Among the many riveting facets of this Polish city is the grievous history that took place on its grounds. Throughout the month that I’ve stayed, vignettes of its haunting past have slowly opened its doors, beckoning for me to enter, to explore and to understand the events that made up the most destructive war in history and the part this town has played and witnessed. … Continue reading The Holocaust History of Krakow, A Virtual Tour (May 2018)
The Daily Dreaming 2: The Self, from a Vantage Point
After a month-long trip to Europe, having had plenty of time to reflect, a long car ride put me in an easy, pensive mood. In the Western world, the psyche seems to have a more objective understanding of one’s circumstances, and consequently, one’s responses to them. As such, I’ve endeavored to step further outside myself, as well. Which do you often listen to–your fears … Continue reading The Daily Dreaming 2: The Self, from a Vantage Point
Baguio City (January 2018)
It’s been years since I’ve last been to the mountain city, but I recalled a few fond memories: walking down Session Road and seeing the swan boats in Burnham Park once again, and paired them with treasured new ones such as the fascination in shopping at the public market, happy coffee-shop hopping, and discovery of Filipino literature at Mt. Cloud bookshop. Baguio Public Market Patch … Continue reading Baguio City (January 2018)
Washington DC (September 2017)
Two days was not enough to explore the city (and take in the Smithsonians!). Below is an incomplete sum of what I saw on a trolley tour and on foot. I wasn’t able to explore enough to properly get an understanding of life in the town but daily life seemed to be a pleasant and comfortable routine. Continue reading Washington DC (September 2017)
Paradigm Shift: 5 Things I Learned about Mainland China (Beijing, April 2018)
Just this week, I set out on a last-minute business trip to Beijing. Having visited China three other times before, each one either dull or unpleasant, I had nothing but qualms about going on this trip, especially as I was to be alone, ill-equipped with barely-conversational Mandarin. To my surprise, fourth time was the charm. This trip turned my mind around, left me eager to … Continue reading Paradigm Shift: 5 Things I Learned about Mainland China (Beijing, April 2018)
Heart light, mind bright 