Ilocos Norte: Nueva Era Eco Cultural Park, overnight stay in a treehouse & the great outdoors

Do you want to stay overnight in a tree house? The Nueva Era Eco Cultural Park, the newest attraction of Ilocos Norte, offers that possibility. Nueva Era is one of three mountain municipalities of Ilocos Norte. They constructed the park to showcase the Tingguian culture and to allow visitors to enjoy the great outdoors.

Aside from the four treehouses, there are also huts and bungalows with basic but comfortable accommodation amenities including beds and an electric fan. They also have a campsite for those who want to take their adventure outdoors to a higher level.

The Nueva Era Eco Cultural Park also has a swimming pool, bonfire area or dap-ayan and a museum showcasing the Tingguian culture. There are trails and nearby treks for those who want to hike. Plus a restaurant is in the works for those who get hungry since there aren't that many food options in Nueva Era unless you buy food in the market.

It just opened so enjoy it before the crowds start coming! For reservations and more information, contact Nueva Era Tourism Officer Ria Rivera (0915) 2582512.

The Philippines says thank you!

On February 8, 2014, at 4:40 a.m., Manila time, exactly three months after Typhoon Haiyan hit the Philippines, the country launched a global campaign expressing its gratitude to the world, having received an outpouring of support following the devastating effects of the typhoon.

The Philippines says thank you!

Thank you world, for all the help you've given us since #Haiyan! Show your love, share this #PHthankyou video!

Documenting travel with your mobile phone

Mobile phones have definitely changed the way we chronicle our travels. I was a late-mover when it came to acquiring a smart phone (I regret not getting one earlier) and I only got my Instagram account less than two years ago. My mobile phone and the Instagram account have become my most important tools in documenting my trips the past few months. I can now look back at every memorable place I’ve visited and cultural experience I’ve encountered just by looking at my Instagram photos.

Here are some things I do when taking photos with my phone:

1. Take a lot of shots
Sometimes, it’s difficult to tell on the spot, especially if you’re in a hurry, whether the photo you took was blurred or your subject was not looking at the camera. It’s even more difficult to repeat the moment, which is why it’s always best to take a burst of shots from which you can select your favorite one. You can delete the bad ones anyway later on. Some apps like SnappyCam Pro allow you to capture the perfect moment with a burst of shots. I just click the shutter button really quick.

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