Where to Stay in Mati, Davao Oriental, Philippines

by Regin Reyno

One of the surfing spots in the Philippines is Mati in the province of Davao Oriental in Mindanao. It is already at the Pacific Ocean. Huge waves, white sand, and it is still not saturated with tourists. 

Together with

1. Siargao, Surigao del Norte
2. Baler, Aurora
3. San Juan, La Union
4. San Narciso, Zambales

Mati is one of the famous surfing spots in the Philippines. If you are based in Mindanao, you don’t have to go to Playa Grande, Costa Rica, Bali, Indonesia, California, USA, Oahu, Hawaii, or Torquay, Australia, or even in Luzon, to surf.

It is a 4-hour, scenic drive from Davao City, across coastlines and mountains.

The main surfing area is at Dahican beach in barangay Dahican.

Dahican beach is a long beach, lined with coconut trees, white sand, with a view of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Mount Hamiguitan. It has still that local vibe, where you still encounter fishermen and fishing boats.

My 2021 Travels

by Regin Reyno

“In our fear of death, let us not forget to live.”—Krizette Laureta Chu

Entering 2021, I thought it’s going to be the end of the COVID-19 pandemic. I was wrong. We all know it continued and even saw the most deadly strain of the virus in Delta.

Needless to say, international travel, was out of the question for this year. So, these are all domestic travels; all in the Philippines.

Despite the limitations and the scare, God still gave me opportunities, blessings, resources to be able to live life-to travel.

The Journey

by Regin Reyno

I first heard of a Robert Delgado choral arrangement when I was in high school at Northeast Luzon Academy (NELA), way back in 1997. My high school choir, Vessels, led by Trufimo Caplis sang Lead Me, Lord by Arnel de Pano

I Missed My Flight

by Regin Reyno

I was in Marrakech, Morocco bound for Tel Aviv, Israel with a layover in Marseille, France.

Hotel Corail
Marrakech, Morocco

10 Adventurous Things To Do In Dubai

Guestpost by Neha Singh

Ever thought of diving underwater with sharks? Or want to swing through Dubai's sky-piercing buildings at a lightning speed? Dubai is a city with endless possibilities. Not just towering buildings and fancy resorts fill this city — there are also electrifying water parks, internationally-famed theme parks, daredevil rides, pristine dunes, and ravishing coastline. These promise a holiday of adrenaline rush and race. 

Read the top 10 adventurous things to do in Dubai that will thrill you every moment: 

1. Skydiving

If you want adrenaline to course through veins, try skydiving above Palm Jumeirah. In a helicopter flying at a whopping height of 14,000 ft, you will freefall and swoop down onto Dubai's incredible landscape (under complete surveillance). You will be harnessed to the professional and experienced instructor who will brief you about this remarkable adventure and its safety tips beforehand. As you gentle descend, watch the stunning Dubai skyline from a different and much dramatic point of view. It gets better when you know that you can carry an Instagram-video of this exhilarating escapade back home. 

My 2020 Travels (The pandemic year)

by Regin Reyno

Lamentations 3:22-23 NIV

Because of the LORD’s great love we are not consumed, for His compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness.

Year 2020. Oh what a year.

Before the pandemic and lockdown, I was able to go to a few places. In fact, prior to the lockdown/enhanced community quarantine, it was a busy time for me, hopping from place to place. It was quite adventurous but at the same time, physically exhausting. I was tired but fulfilled. 

And then, the pandemic hit and I had a 7-month rest.

The Lord is merciful. I am so grateful for His protection and providing me this opportunity to travel in 2020.

1. Cebu, Philippines
January 2020

Accommodation: Crown Regency Hotel and Towers, Citi Park Hotel, Ging Ging Resort, Teobas Homestay, OYO 210 Apple Tree Suites

Transportation: Cebu Pacific 

Teobas Homestay in Moalboal

Thailand: A Photo Essay

by Regin Reyno

Thailand was my 2nd home for almost 5 years. I enjoyed my stay in this country where you can find an abundance of cultural destinations and experiences, friendly people, and delicious cuisine. It is also a hub of travelers, so meeting international people is easy.

It was also in this country where I took my Cambridge CELTA certification. Thailand will always have a place in my heart. 

Here are some of my favorite shots in the Land of Smile:

Muay Thai
Bangkok, Thailand, 2012