Newly alluring Loikaw, in Burma, brims with karsts, hill-tribe markets and bold brews. Here, four reasons to go now. Because the temples and the scenery are impossibly photogenic. A nest of majestic conical spires, Taung Kwe Pagoda (Road 5 next to Thiri Mingalar Market) awaits you at the top of Thiri Mingalar Hill. Breathe in the …
Manila (CNN) The old world ambiance of Manila's Cafe Adriatico is unmistakable. Wooden furnishings, brushstroke paintings and soft music are all a reminder of an era gone by. Located in the older neighborhood of Malate, Cafe Adriatico is a memento of what Manila once was. It's now obscured by the urban decay that epitomizes the bayside origins …
Continue reading Heritage and hilarity: Funnyman’s mission to save Old Manila (CNN)
Today marks the end of my two-year hiatus from Investvine, a business news portal covering predominantly Southeast Asia affairs. And to establish my return, I decided to cover the Yulin dog meat festival, which is now trending on social media under hashtags created by animal activists (#stopyulin, #stopyulin2015) to stop the inhumane butchering of "man's best …
Continue reading Beware of dog food: The great dog meat debate howls on
After many years of travel, I have learned, for the most part, that the usual things you carry with you on your journey -- that laundry list of gadgets, toiletries and clothes -- is not nearly as valuable abroad as having a good sense of tact. Our first steps in a new place are often …
Continue reading No, you can’t say that: Adjusting to taboos when traveling, and a bit of Thailand
I’ve been living out of a suitcase for eight months. And, as the situation implies, the pace of living hasn’t allowed for much time to stop and reflect on what this lifestyle is like, or how it has changed me – is changing me. Right now, I can see Ortigas Center outside my window, one …
Justin Calderón 