Travel – Marvin Camara

Weekend in Ilocos

Location: Vigan, Ilocos Sur, Philippines

Bringing you back in the old times, Ilocos will surely leave you breathless with its sundry topography. It has that equal balance of fun, culture, and discovery. You have great places to see and explore throughout our stay! I got the chance to spend my weekend in Ilocos and its surely a time well spent! Everything was happening so fast that it was difficult to wrap my head around the whole experience. Nevertheless, it’s always a fun experience! Here’s a rundown of what happened during our 72-hour stay in Ilocos.

We took a van to Ilocos and spent almost 8 hours sitting, eating and sleeping. Finally! Touchdown Ilocos! We arrived at our destination with an unpleasant weather around 7:45 am. We had a little mishap─water rises and heavy rainfall. Still, that doen’st stop us from eating! The first order of business─breakfast! then headed off to Paoay San Dunes.

It was remarkably fun yet tiring when you experience KTV and sand boarding. After that, we headed to our hotel. Their we had peace and fun while the night goes by.

Around 7 am, we were lucky that the weather was quite peaceful at that time─we immediately went to our itinerary: Windmill, rock formation, Paoay church, zoo, and Vigan.

First stop: Have a look at the most famous Bangui windmills of Ilocos Norte. These windmills generate 40% of electricity and power for the entire Ilocos Norte, and it’s environment friendly!

Moving forth, It was really hot while walking for 30 minutes or more but the view of the Kapurpurawan rock formation was astonishing! (the sunburn was worth it).

After a day of exploring, we headed back to Paoay church and Sinking Bell Tower to freshen up and have lunch. The church was quite grandiose as if it wasn’t flooded yesterday.

Our last stop was the famous Vigan. The vibrant city is the capital of Ilocos Sur and one of the few surviving old historic cities in the Philippines. The nostalgic city bursting with kalesa and ancestral house inspired by Mexican, Spanish and Chinese architecture.

The streets were really lively! It was like you’re back from the Spanish Era. Even the restaurants and shops fit the vibe. Everywhere you look, you could see all kinds of things. Crowded people, historic buildings, and foods all filled the streets of Vigan.

As the night goes by, it was filled with people. We only had an hour to explore yet it was nice to see and experience new things! Our trip was quite unexpected filled with mishaps and adventures but that’s what traveling is! I can’t wait for my next trip to Ilocos!

72 hours in La Union

Location: San Juan, La Union, Philippines

Last September, we decided to head to La Union for a little sight-seeing and a reunion with some friends to celebrate their birthdays. La Union is famous for the beach town of San Juan, the surfing capital on this side of North Luzon. This province is a great place to travel for non-surfers and surfers alike. There are also many interesting places worth visiting apart from its famous surf! Here’s a rundown of how our trip went!

We decided to meet after class and eat before travelling. After a 4 hours travel by bus, we walked to the hotel as early as 5am. Upon arriving in La Union, I was impressed by how clean and well-maintained the places are.

We booked two nights in the Flotsam & Jetsam Artist Beach Hostel (thank you Gyanna) to finally get a decent sleep. My friends and I were so happy because everything is hippie and has a free-spirited vibe. The bamboo walls, outdoor mats and bean bags, witty signs, and a balcony where you can see the beach—we couldn’t stop taking photos!

First thing, we were all starving so we hurried to a local store in San Juan. The food tastes really good especially the longganisa and bagnet.

We weren’t solved with breakfast, so we went to Olas Banditos, a local Mexican restaurant, for some delicious burritos and fries! Make sure you try their burritos as well! Too good. After the feast, we made our way to the beach! The coastline is blessed with glorious sunset views. With its cool breeze and white sand makes it a fun and chill way to cap off the day.

At night, people at Flotsam and Jetsam hang in the yard to drink and have a good time through good music and social interaction. We killed some time at the yard and watch the night disappear.

Day 2 in La Union. We started the day a bit late so we headed to the beach. My friends tried surfing. The local residents are so helpful and friendly—they assisted my friends in learning how to surf and make the experience worthwhile! I enjoy sitting on the beach, where all the stress slowly drifted away as I was consumed by the natural beauty of the beach.

At around 4-5 in the afternoon, we headed to Gyanna’s house. The place was huge like a resort! From a baskteball court to a nipa hut, it was truly a paradise. After the tour, we had a dinner with her family and spent the night out.

Last day in La Union, we moved to the famous El Union Coffee but unfortunately it was full of people. So we just had lunch at a Japanese restaurant (I forgot the name) but I remembered their salmon! It was really good.

Every great trip must come to an end—but it doesn’t have to stop there. Our days in the beach were spent chilling in our rooms, swimming, and of course eating. Trust me, we didn’t want to leave. A great way to detached yourself to the busy world. Thank you guys for this amazing trip!

Photos by me | Taken using my iPhone 5S | Edited using Lightroom and VSCO

Arriving in: Caleruega

Location: Nasugbu, Batangas, Philippines

There’s something about Caleruega which I find very charming. May it be the gravel paths, the wooden bench, the great lawn, the fountain, the hanging bridge or maybe the scenic view of the mountains-I find it such a refreshing sight from the chapel. Located in the town of Nasugbu, Batangas, Caleruega is probably known as the most popular wedding chapel around Tagaytay and is called “house of prayer and renewal.“

After spending almost 4 hours sitting on the bus, we finally made it to Caleruega! First, we’ve been oriented about our itinerary. We stayed at this dorm where we played UNO for 1 and a half hour. At around 2 in the afternoon, we crossed the hanging bridge (connecting the path going to the famous Caleruega Chapel), hiked the Chapel on the Hill (a chapel built on top of the hill with a gorgeous view of the mountains), headed back to the session hall to proceed to our activities.

The next day, we move to our last session and had a holy mass at the chapel as our last activity. Truly this place is where people meet, eat lunch, chat, stroll, listen to nature, or simple sit and reflect. I’m gonna stop writing now and let you enjoy these photos! Enjoy!

Photos by Arra, Vivian and me | Taken using my iPhone 5 | Edited using Lightroom

Graphika Manila 2017 D-2

Location: Manila, Philippines

In Graphika Manila, the event starts in the afternoon-but the venue is already jam-packed with attendees, queues from different sections already began to pile. On our second day of Graphika Manila, we saw six awesome speakers to bring insightful and inspirational talk to young artist and designers.

I decided to buy prints from Artgerm but unfortunately it was sold out. But luckily, he was giving a meet and greet with free sketches on your sketchpad. I got the chance to consult and have a sketch from him. He was really down-to-earth and cool at the same time!

JOHN ED DE VERA

The first speaker was John Ed De Vera, who is a multidisciplinary designer – with penchant for lettering, paper-cutting, and experimenting with different and new media. He talked about not being afraid of try new mediums in creating masterpieces. Ed also emphasizes on sharing your point of views, Find inspiration from ordinary and be silly or be witty in art.

RIZON PAREIN

Next in line was Rizon Parein specializes in unique 3Dstyle that is colorful and playful; and his digital models come beautifully close to reality. He showed to us his latest work that impressed the whole crowd. “Don’t follow the norm” and “Be a trend!” was the piece of advice the exploded in my mind at the time.

KERBY ROSANES

Whimsical lines, patterns, characters, and little elements that are combined to create massive compositions by mainly using black pens. Kerby Rosanes shared his experiences throughout the years. He said that “Pursue what you enjoy,” “Always be yourself,” “Share your work” and “Personal work > Commercial work.”

AVID LIONGOREN of ROCKETSHEEP STUDIO

Rocketsheep Studio is a tiny production company that isn’t (really) a company but a small house with few computers and dogs that produced the indie film, Saving Sally. The studio, represented by Avid Liongoren, discussed the 11 tips when they produced the indie film. Some tips that he shared are “Lens flare can make your work beautiful,””Everything that is black and white is art!,””Always have a backup file because hard drives are cheaper that hard work,””Respect Chromaman” and “Marketing is just as important as art.”

ARTGERM

The one everybody is waiting for and mostly known by his handle, Artgerm, Stanley Lau wears different hats as an illustrator, designer, concept artist, and creative director. Artgerm talked about what it means to be a fan and building a fan base or audience.

He also shared some important points to ponder: “Respect the original design intent,” “Be unique in styles and ideas,” “Stay current with trends,” and “Always have fun.”

MR. BINGO

And finally, Mr. Bingo is an illustrator, artist and speaker. Well Known for his Hate Mail Project in 2011. Mr. Bingo talked about his life as an artist who generally serve his art to entertain and amuse people. He also talked about how to make a good rap and components on a good music video.

As the conference comes to an end, people get ready for meet and greet with the speakers from day one and two. I got to meet Rizon Parein, Kerby Rosanes and Thang Lee of IML. They’re nice and approachable! Mr. Kerby even gave us some postcard and it was awesome!

Unfortunately, we only got to only one line due to the cutting of line. but we manage to sneak one person to the line and make her autograph for us. Mr. Daryl also gave us a postcard and it was beautiful!

My weekend in one photo! Thank you Graphika Manila for bringing this amazing speakers to give such remarkably talk to young artist and designers. The event went well and it was worth the pay! Plus got a lot of loot and freebies from the conference! and that’s it for the second day of Graphika Manila! Until next time!

Photos by me | Taken using my iPhone 5

Graphika Manila 2017 D-1

Location: Manila, Philippines

Kicking in the New Year with the premier creativity conference in the Philippines wherein the most creative minds of artists and designers get together.

Graphika Manila is a two-day, yearly conference held in the Philippines last January 21 – 22 that focuses on showcasing latest multidisciplinary creative approaches and strategies when it comes to design, art direction, illustrators,web and animation from invited local and international speakers.

I, together with Kim, and Karl, were all crazy excited about the event (for it was our first time). We all agreed to meet up at UST to get a grab taxi together.

After 30 mins, we finally made it to SMX Convention and when we get to the venue, we were greeted with a long line of people! So we decide to buy some merchandise while we were waiting. And I saw some of my college friends and classmates along the way.

BENJAMIN ANG of GENESIS MOTION DESIGN

To kick off the event, Benjamin Ang of Genesis Motion Design was the first one to talk. They produces creative concepts, thoughtful designs, wondrous animations, and places a sincere emphasis on its unique aesthetic direction. They also designed this year’s Graphika Manila branding and it was totally lit!

He talked about being comfortable with the uncomfortable, that taking a leap of fate might give you some great results and also fight for your passion.

DARYL FERIL

A combinations of overflowing foliage, organic elements and splashing colours merging chaos and elegance. Daryl Feril lectured about that real challenges (failure, rejections, criticism) begins on your step outside. He also said that “Always listen to your voice;” “Don’t validate to others opinion” and “Put yourself out there, defend your work.”

JONATHAN KIM of RARE VOLUME

Co-founder and creative director, Jonathan Kim of Rare Volume specializes in motion, creative code and interactive installations. He talked about that working together with other artist is essential on one’s part. “Always innovate,” “Create out of this world” and “Design + Technology is the new trend today.” And did I tell you this guy has got the groove!

State Design is a boutique design-driven production studio that specializes in design, animation, live-action direction and editorial. The number one tip for clients is never check an artist every 5 mins!

MARCEL ZIUL

Marcel Ziul talked about their strategy to be successful: Creative control, stay small, build portfolio and learn form various of people. He also said that “Show your best work,” “Show what you like” and that will get people excited.

GARY BASEMAN

Gary Baseman explores the beauty of the bitter-sweetness of life through painting, performance, film and fashion for both light and serious subject matter. He talked about his life and art. Gary merges art and his experience to create a beautiful masterpiece. He said that “Art is the essence of everything” and that “Story and Expression is important in making a craft.”

THANG LEE of INDUSTRIAL LIGHT AND MAGIC

Last but not the least, an American motion picture visual effects company that specializes in special effects powerhouse that revolutionized movie making and animation. Industrial Light and Magic (ILM) represented by Visual Effects Art Director, Thang Le gives us glimpse of how film development works. He discusses the stages of film development and how valuable each phase in movie making. lastly he showed us few behind the scenes on how they put visual effects on famous films like Battleships, Star Wars and Tomorrowland.

(Unfortunately, The ILM didn’t allow photos or videos)

After the conference, we had a chance to meet some speakers and have there autograph and picture. I got the pleasure to meet sir Marcel, Jonathan, Benjamin and ArtGerm! Crazy! I’m gonna stop writing now and enjoy some photos from the event! Enjoy!

Photos by me | Taken using my iPhone 5

GOT7 in Manila 2016

Location: Manila, Philippines

Friday night, GOT7 hit the stage of KIA Theater, Araneta Center, the second of the two stops in their third Philippine Fan Meeting, and I had the opportunity to attend the event.

They are coming back to the Philippines for “Flight Log: Turbulence” this December and they are having two stops: One in Cebu on December 21 followed by in Manila on December 23rd.

I, with my High school friend Vange, were crazy excited about the event. We agreed to meet up and decided to head to Cubao at around 1 pm. Six hours before the show, the line of fans waiting had gone long and we were the first few to fall in line and wait.

The hours spent in line passed quickly enough, and as people entered the theater, we got the chance to write on the “Ask GOT7” board. As the seats slowly being occupied and music starts to play, the crowd was filled with excitement. The moment GOT7 set foot on the stage, the energy of the crowd reached the breaking point, screams and roars so powerful filled the theater. They kicked the evening off with a soothing performance of “Let Me” and “Prove It.”

As they prepare for the next program, they were met with a little surprise. The Chic and Sexy leader, JB, will celebrate his birthday next month. So the fans decided to throw him a little party with a cake and a video.

Settling in for a little request called “Ask GOT7″, Each member picked a note and answer questions from the audience, choosing them from a board. It ended up a request to sing a song, and sexy dance. Then It was time for fan interaction, a game of “Guess the item“and “Charades” that made the night fun.

As the night goes on, it was time for more music; moving from R&B into energetic and wild performances of “Boom x3” and “No Jam” then their hit songs from their other album proceeded performances of “Fly,” “If You Do,” then lastly “Hard Carry.“

Appearing once more for an encore, they performed “Home Run.” Performing with all their heart and soul for their final number. As the song ends, the stage lights dimmed and the boys disappeared into the darkness.

As Yugyeom always says “So Amazing” to see artists perform live in front of you. I had enjoyed every bit of performances and interactions. Their performances were on-point and unbelievable when you see it with your own naked eyes. Hands down to GOT7 for a spectacular event and looking forward for next year’s event!

CHO CHO CHO CHOOOOOOOOOO!

(P.S. I managed to take a few shots of the event but they’re low quality and blurry photos due to strict staffs.)

Photos by me | Taken using my iPhone 5

An Impromptu Trip to Subic

Location: Subic, Philippines

Isn’t it delightful to have a weekend trip with your friends? I mean a trip that the crew planned and it’s actually happening?! *Booyeah*

We were actually given a week to relax and have fun but our professors never forget to bombard us with plates, papers etc. We had this plate in our Photography class to travel to a particular place and take photos. So the crew decided to go to the City of Pines, Baguio City! *Brrr* and a quick getaway to Subic! Here’s a rundown of what happened during my 13-hour trip to Subic.

Our first destination was Subic. We took off at 6:00 in the morning. Zzzz…

The plan is to go to Camayan Beach Resortwhere we spend the day, relax and appreciate life. Camayan is a lovely resort that houses the great beach and foresters of Subic.

The resort has a lot of recreational activities to offer like beach volleyball, snorkeling, kayak and many more.

Isabelle Utleg killing it! //slayin

What a way to start the trip! Certainly, Subic is an interesting destination near Metro Manila. It has several recreational activities that absolutely can be enjoyed by couples, colleagues, friends and families. I had the most amazing experience even though we only spent half a day! Well, I’m looking forward for my next visit.

Photos by me | Taken using my iPhone 5 and Canon 700D