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Welcome to the heart of Central America, where ancient traditions meet breathtaking landscapes. Antigua, Guatemala, and Lake Atitlan together create a magical journey that blends colonial charm with natural splendor. Over the next seven days, I invite you to immerse yourself in the vibrant culture, explore historical sites, and unwind by the serene shores of Lake Atitlan.

Fly to Guatemala’s La Aurora International Airport (Airport Code: GUA). There are several airlines that fly direct to GUA from LA (Delta and Avianca). Upon landing, skip Guatemala City because there is not much to see in this city, even my Guatemalan friends would admit this. Guatamala City is safe and very clean, but the beauty of the country is outside the city.

From the airport, you can arrange for a private service from your hotel, take a taxi or uber to head to Antigua, which is roughly 15 miles from the airport, or a beautiful 45 to 60 minute car ride. A private car costs about USD $60 to $70, and about USD$40 for uber. My friend Charlie Revolorio is a travel guide and can help you book a seemless ride – you can reach him on Whatsapp at +502-5559-8986. He is very kind, honest and amazing.

Side tip while you’re at the airport- buy a simm card for your phone. They can do it quick and cheap!

Day 1-2: Antigua – Colonial Marvels and Culinary Delights

Start your adventure in Antigua, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its well-preserved Spanish Baroque-influenced architecture.

I stayed at the Hotel Meson de Maria (http://hotelmesondemaria.com/esp/) which is a mansion or a noble ancestral home turned into a hotel. I loved this hotel and it was fairly inexpensive ($80/night for the regular room). If you have more budget, stay at the room that has a balcony or has a window that overlooks the outdoors. The location of this hotel couldn’t be more perfect.

 

 

There other more fabulous hotels in the area. The key in picking a hotel is to make sure you’re in the town and NOT OUTSIDE OF THE OLD TOWN. I cannot stress this enough.

Spend your first day wandering through cobbled streets lined with pastel-hued buildings. Don’t miss the iconic Santa Catalina Arch, a symbol of Antigua’s rich history. Visit the Central Plaza, Parque Central, surrounded by the stunning Antigua Cathedral and the Palace of the Captains General.

 

In the evenings, explore the local culinary scene. Antigua boasts a diverse array of restaurants, from traditional Guatemalan fare to international cuisine. Savor a cup of world-renowned Guatemalan coffee in one of the charming cafes, and treat your taste buds to local specialties like Pepián or Kak’ik.

Day 3-4: Antigua – Cultural Immersion Dive deeper into Antigua’s cultural treasures on day three. Visit the Santo Domingo Monastery, home to the Jade Maya exhibit and a stunning courtyard. Explore the Casa Popenoe and the La Merced Church, each showcasing unique architectural details.

If you want to know more about the rich history of the town, please call Charlie for a very fascinating walking tour of the town. He can take you to secret spots as well!

Take a coffee tour to discover the journey from bean to cup, learning about Guatemala’s coffee-making traditions. (This was incredible!)

In the evening, join a traditional dance performance or catch live music at one of the local venues. You can arrange this coffee tour from little travel shops in the town. The hotel can also make a recommendation.

When dining, ask for authentic restaurants from a local and read reviews. There are so many restaurants in town that try to be too westernized (avoid those).

This may sound silly- but check out the local Starbucks and McDonald’s. They are probably the most beautiful Starbucks you have ever been to. Don’t worry, they serve Guatemalan coffee.

Antigua’s Starbucks isn’t your typical chain outlet in West Hollywood. As you step inside, the air is infused with the warm aroma of freshly brewed Guatemalan coffee beans. The interior design pays homage to the city’s colonial heritage, featuring intricate wooden accents and vibrant textiles that mirror the traditional Mayan craftsmanship found in the local markets.

One of the highlights of the Starbucks in Antigua is its charming outdoor patio adorned with terracotta tiles. Surrounded by lush greenery and colorful bougainvillea, the patio offers a tranquil escape from the bustling streets. It’s an ideal spot to sip your favorite Starbucks beverage while soaking in the colonial architecture and absorbing the vibrant energy of Antigua.

Me at Starbucks waiting for my order. The leaves protect me from the sun. LOL.

Day 5-7: Lake Atitlan – Tranquil Bliss and Indigenous Culture

On day five, embark on a scenic journey to Lake Atitlan, one of the most picturesque lakes in the world.

From Antigua, you can take a public shuttle to Lake Atitlan for 2.5 hours (Panajachel is the main town there). The shuttle costs about $22 per person. Or you can hire a private driver like I did and pay USD$100. I heard that the shuttle service is pretty safe.

Surrounded by volcanoes and indigenous villages, the lake offers a serene escape. Stay in one of the lakeside towns like Panajachel, San Pedro, San Marcos, Santa Cruz or Santa Catarina. You can get to Santa Catarina by car or tuktuk (motorized vehicle for 3-4), and take a short ferry ride to San Pedro, Santa Cruz and San Marcos.

Charlie (left, my tour guide and friend) and Miguel, a new friend I met there from Colombia. Amazing guys!

I met Julie from New York when I offered to take her photos. Gaby is Charlie’s best friend. Great group!

There are many small hotels by the lake which are very charming and fairly inexpensive. I stayed at Villa Santa Catarina and it was absolutely peaceful and gorgeous. The only downside are – 1) There are no restaurants outside the hotel (but many street food vendors) 2) You have to take a tuktuk to get to a ferry. HOWEVER, the upside is, it is very tranquil and peaceful because it is off the beaten path. To book this hotel: https://www.villasdeguatemala.com/es/villa-santa-catarina (Rates go for $85 to $100 and it includes a delicious breakfast).

Airbnb has incredible Conde Nast-worthy lake houses that will make you the envy of your social circle. The best part? Many are under $150 for a 1 bedroom with a view of the 3 glorious volcanoes and the lake. (There are even gems for $50/night).

Days six and seven are dedicated to exploring the beauty of Lake Atitlan. Take a boat tour to visit the charming villages of Santiago Atitlan, San Marcos, and Santa Cruz. Engage with the indigenous Mayan communities, known for their vibrant textiles and handicrafts.

For adventure seekers, consider hiking one of the surrounding volcanoes for panoramic views of the lake and its surroundings. There are so many hiking trails for all levels. We managed to hike several hills and the view was absolutely incredible.

Wind down your week with yoga by the lake or a relaxing spa day. Have a cerveza or two from any of the beautiful cantinas. I hired a local masseuse for only $35. I also had a foot massage at a local spa for $28.

The lake is so peaceful, I can stay here for a week and not get bored. (With $40 massages, yoga and delicious fruit salad – I am a happy camper).

A week split between the historical wonders of Antigua and the tranquil beauty of Lake Atitlan provides a perfect balance of culture, history, and natural splendor. As you bid farewell to this enchanting region, take with you not just memories of picturesque landscapes but a deep appreciation for the rich tapestry of Guatemala’s cultural heritage.

Back at our lake house in Tagaytay. This place holds so many memories for a over 2 decades now. It was my mom’s dream house she had constructed based on a cabin we stayed at in Big Bear.

 

It was here where I surprised my family after 8 years of absence. I wrapped myself up in a blanket and walked towards my family while they were eating. The screaming can be heard for miles and miles.

It was also here where I first Introduced John to the family. “Mom, this is my American ‘friend’ John.” She hugged him and gave him a tour.

When my sister was assigning rooms, she said “John will sleep in the masters bedroom.” So I leaned over and whispered “Where will I sleep?” She said “Masters bedroom with John, of course.”
They knew.

The house is about 5,000 square feet in size (464 square meters) and has 5 floors. But our entire family of 20+ always hang out In one room- the kitchen. My parents watched their smalll family of 6 grow and grow and grow.

When we are here, we would literally sit around all day and the housekeepers (or my sisters) would bring out food and snacks all day long. We have had this house for over 25 years and we have never seen most of the attractions around the lake. Being together with the family was the main attraction when we visited.

Even at my age, my mom insisted I sleep on her bed with her. There are a dozen beds, but I had to sleep next to her. We would be face to face and she would hold my two hands with hers and caress it. I can’t understand it back then, but she must have been enjoying having her child home.

As we grew older, our nephews and nieces made their own memories here. They have many drunken moments here. (Yes kids, we know). They have brought their friends here for weekend getaways and sung karaoke all night long.

My mother loved this house. Even during her last years, she would ask the family to visit. She would lay on the couch while all her great grand kids scream and jump all over her. She enjoyed every minute of it.

She loved this place so much, she purchased the four other parcels of land next to it. She didnt want to have neighbors.

It was a bit bitter sweet coming In to the house last night without her. There’s so many memories of my mother in every corner.

Thanks mom … we will cherish you, and this house forever.

My skin is glowing, right? Hahaha That is sweat right there. Hahaha It is seriously 96 degrees and humid. He wanted to go up soooo badly, and it is our only reason we are back in Athens. So we had to do it.

I was dying because you have to hike up this long windy, path. And you’re sweating soooo badly. Hahaha I hate the heat- but I do have to admit, it was worth it once you get up there. Pretty amazing views and architecture.

Tip for you- bring bottled water with you. Hydrate hyrdrate hyrdate!

I arrived here not knowing what to expect. Honestly, I have been so busy that I had no time to do my research.

However, two months before my trip, I messaged my friend Andy who works for the US Foreign Affairs if it was safe to come to Latvia.

He just rolled his eyes at me. LOL “Yes, why not? It is very safe there! Go!”
The Riga Airport, though small, is very clean, organized, and modern. You even have dozens and dozens of taxis to choose from. (Some are even Mercedes Benz).

I stayed at Wellton Centrum and Spa which is smack in the heart of the city and the Old Town district. This was the best decision ever! The place has adequate rooms, but they’re clean and such great value. Most of all, it is within walking distance to many restaurants, charming coffee shops, tourist attractions and shopping (the mall is just across the street).
I had the perfect timing too- it has been snowing nonstop since I got here. Yup- I love snow! Haha Although locals gave me a weird look when I told them I am here for a vacation, “Latvia in November? Really?” You should have seen their faces. It was though I was crazy.

Don’t you worry, folks, you will see me here again!

I am a sucker for a European Christmas Market. Generally, they open on the first week of December and close on Dec 23. They open around 10 am til 10 pm (in bigger cities, they close at midnight).

The stalls offer everything from homemade holiday decorations, local arts and crafts, local delicacies, cheese, wine, and handmade clothes and accessories (basically nothing that says “Made in China”).

Each city or town in Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and the Baltics has one. You can also see these in France, Italy, and Spain (although not quite the same).
It is a social activity for family and friends. They serve mulled wine, different types of delicacies, and even desserts.

The biggest one I have ever been to is the Vienna Christmas Market. It is pretty, although I think it is too big and lacks that intimate feeling. The smaller one in Salzburg is charming.

I also love the Christmas market in Munich’s Marien Platz. They sometimes even have carolers singing Christmas melodies. There are so many food options there.

The Christmas Market in Frankfurt is way too small and too packed in my opinion. The carousel is beautiful, though.

The Christmas Market in Riga, Latvia, is one of the smallest markets I have ever been to. But what it lacks in size, it makes up for in heart. Such a beautiful setting! If I could only describe it in one word, I would say “Magical.”

Everyone has a favorite market … visit these countries this winter and find your own favorite!

This is my second trip to Taiwan. Our family loved it so much when we visited 3 years ago, that we decided to come back.

What is not to love? The accommodations are fairly inexpensive, it Is safe, clean, and there are a lot of things to see and do.

The first time we visited, we stayed at one of the 4 Tango Inm Hotel near Shillin Night Market, known for its vibrant night life of shopping and dining. This time, because there are 14 of us, we stayed at the Midtown Richardson Hotel in the center of Ximending area, another shopping district of Taipei. (As you may have guessed, my family’s trips always revolve around eating and shopping. (And at the end of each trip, we always wonder how we gained so much weight LOL).

A few tips:

1) If you’re going to Taipei, stay near Shillin or Ximending. Theyre not exactly Ritz Carlton type areas, but they are the real Taipei- busy and bustling!
2) For luxury shopping- head on to the two Breeze Malls or Taipei 101 (a mall at one of the talllest buildings in the world).

3) Don’t rent a car- they have an amazing bus, metro rail, taxi and inexpensive uber system. Use Googie Maps and you can choose the best option that fits your budget. It is so easy to get around and everything seems to be 15-22 min away.

4) Taiwan isnt just about shopping- they also have great street food choices.

5) Taiwan also has Uber Eats in case you prefer to stay in.

6) Taiwainese people are so kind, polite, and helpful. They don’t speak English as well Filipinos, but you will manage.

7) Taiwan is a small country- but there are so many things to do here and it has so many cool attractions from massive malls to cool museums to trendy restaurants to historical temples.

8) Check the weather before you visit! They have 4 seasons in Taiwan- so pack your jackets if you’re visiting in the winter months! (And swimsuits in the summer months).

 

When I first visisted La Boca in 2014, I thought “This awful place is a tourist spot?”

But much has changed in 9 years. The place is much more attractive and cleaner. It also has sooo many fun stores and trendy restaurants offering the most delicious meals!

La Boca is a working-class area with a cluster very colorful and vibrant homes and buildings. Steakhouses, cocktail bars and street artists surround Caminito, a narrow alley flanked by brightly painted shacks that evoke the district’s early immigrant days.

It is definitely a MUST visit if you’re ever in Argentina. To get here- get in a cab, show them these photos and they’ll know where to take you.

Just 3-4 blocks away from here is the world famous La Boca Stadium where they play football games at.

Note: Please come during the day- it is not an area you’d like to be walking around at night.

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  I have been to Argentina before (2014), while I loved it, I really had no intentions of coming back. But my friend Sarantos begged me. (I am not good at saying “No”).

Surprisingly, I loved it. I feel like it is a new city again. There are so many new things and the city is now so much cleaner, and more organized. Hotels are more upscale and restaurants, too. The city have undergone a massive makeover.

The downside- the prices have more than doubled since 2014. Hotels in Buenos Aires used to average $70/night. That’s gone now. Want to stay at the Four Seasons? That’s $650/night.

I stayed at 725 Continental Hotel just a few blocks from the Obelisk and enjoyed its central location.

But one thing remains – people here are still
insanely beautiful and kind. People always ask me, “Where do you think people are the prettiest?” I would say Argentinians always rank on my Top 5. I think it’s in the water.

Glad to be back! And I will come back again

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If you’re ever in Buenos Aires and have an extra day, a trip to Colonia, Uruguay can be a good idea.you’re ever in Buenos Aires and have an extra day, a trip to Colonia, Uruguay can be a good idea.

You can visit its UNESCO World Heritage Site old town and have a taste of Uruguay cuisine.

The Banque Bus ferry takes about an hour and a half and it is a pretty decent ship (spring for first class if you can). They sell food on the ferry and have very clean washrooms. It even has a duty free store.

The ferry costs about $90 round trip, and about $125 if you want to Include a walking tour.

From Colonia, there are beautiful, modern buses that can take you to Montevideo if you want to explore further.

Not gonna lie- you have to check in (takes 20 min) and stand in line at immigration (another 20 to 30 minutes or so) in both countries. I wish they can streamline this process.

Five hours At Colonia Uruguay should be plenty of time to walk around and enjoy a nice lunch by the ocean.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Iguazu Falls seems like a world away, and to be honest, it kinda is. But it is definitely worth the trip.

You can reach Iguazu via a 2 hour plane ride from Buenos Aires or an hour flight from Rio Brazil.

There are many tour groups available from either countries, but to be honest, you don’t really need to join a tour group. The town of Iguazu is very small and it is very easy to get around.

My friend Sarantos and I flew from Buenos Aires, his dream destination. But as soon as we landed in Iguazu, he quickly said “Iguazu is a lot more magical than Buenos Aires.” And it is true.

Many Argentinians don’t speak English (I speak a little Spanish). But we got lucky and our taxi driver Carlos, who drove us from the airport in Iguazu to our hotel, was so kind and friendly.

He was so kind, friendly and nice that we bonded immediately. I asked for his Instagram account and we asked him again to drive us into the town later that evening.

He was soooooo sweet, he showed us around the town and helped us run errands too.

He took us around several places which was great. Because the following day, we had to bolt out of Iguazu to go home to the Philippines for my mom. So it was great that we got to see quite a bit.

He drove us around to show us where the locals live, the other hotels, and to a park where the borders of Paraguay, Brazil and Argentina meets.

As a thank you, we took him to a nice restaurant. When the bill came, this 22 year old kid asked us how much his share was for his meal (it would have cost him his entire day’s wage). He was such a class act.
He was such an amazing kid- so nice, fun, trustworthy and well mannered. We will definitely stay in touch.

The following day, he drove us to the Iguazu park. It costs about $12 to get in. Wear hiking shoes because you will need to walk around the park through pathways, bridges and rocky paths to get around the park.

Tip- try to get to the park on weekdays, or exactly at 8 am when it opens! You will have the entire park to yourself!

There are two sides to the waterfall- the Argentina side or the Brazil side.

We planned on seeing both but due to a personal emergency, we had to leave right away. This gives me reason to come back!