It’s a leap year this year so thank you for the 366 days that we've shared. It was a memorable one. Like last year, numerous blessings and travel opportunities came into my life.
Let's look back and see what milestones we've crossed and achieved this year.
1. This year, there were 369 published articles (That's 187 more articles than last year 😄😄).
2. I have reached 4 million views (That's 420K new views this year).
3. I got my contract renewed as an ALT under the JET Programme. I’m officially in my 4th year as an ALT.
4. My Japan Residence Card, along with my family’s, has been renewed for another three years. I see this as a clear sign that Japan is truly where my family and I belong.
5. My family and I finally got to fly back to the Philippines during summer vacation to have Kai baptized and also spend quality time with my family and my in-laws in Mindanao. It was such a memorable time.
Congratulations Kanon and Sora!
6. Two students I trained from Rumoi High School, Kanon, and Sora, placed first and third respectively in this year’s Kobunren Hokkaido High School English Speech Contest for the Hokkaido District (高文連北海道高等学校英語弁論大会道北地区大会).
6. My family and I got to travel a lot around Hokkaido Prefecture. We visited 179 of the prefecture's 179 cities, towns, and villages. We have finally completed the #Hokkaido179 Challenge. We are now officially the First Filipino Family to Visit All 179 Municipalities of Hokkaido.
Team Nicerio was featured in Hokkaido Shimbun
7. We were featured in Hokkaido Shimbun for being able to visit all 179 municipalities of Hokkaido.
Featured in Manila Bulletin for being the first to visit all 179 municipalities of Hokkaido
8. We were featured in Manila Bulletin for being the first Filipinos to travel and visit all 179 municipalities.
Speaking of travels, here are the highlights of my travels for each month last year:
It is with a heavy heart that I share the sorrowful truth that this year has not ended without taking loved ones from us. We bid farewell to two dear souls who brought immense joy and love into our lives—our family dog, Bucky, and our beloved Tito Imbet.
Bucky
Bucky was more than just a pet; he was a cherished member of our family. His wagging tail and boundless affection filled our days with light. He had a unique way of sensing our moods, offering comfort during hard times and companionship during happy ones. His loyalty and unconditional love will forever hold a special place in our hearts.
Tito Imbet
Tito Imbet, on the other hand, was a guiding light in his family. He had a smile that could warm any room and a heart that embraced everyone. He shared his humor and unwavering support with all of us. Tito Imbet was the kind person who made everyone feel special, and his absence leaves a void that words cannot fill.
As we reflect on their lives, let us remember the joy they brought, the lessons they taught, and the love they gave so freely. While the pain of their loss is deep, the memories they left behind will continue to inspire and comfort us. May we honor them by carrying their love forward in our own lives.
Rest in peace, dear Bucky and Tito Imbet. You will be deeply missed but never forgotten.
With a heavy heart, I’m holding onto hope that 2025 will bring brighter days, as we have so much to look forward to and accomplish in the year ahead. Farewell, 2024, and thank you for the memories—both joyful and bittersweet.
Updated: October 30, 2020 Our adventure today will take us 46.11 kilometers south from kilometer 0 in Manila. The historic atmosphere still lingers due to the historical landmarks that you can see all around this place. One of the most famous landmarks this city has to offer is the Rizal Shine or more popularly known as Rizal's house. However I'm not here to give you a history adventure but instead, I will tell you the different side of this city. 88 Hotspring Resort and Spa Calamba City in the province of Laguna is a city that has more resorts than the number of days in a year. Because of the fast-growing number of resorts (661 and counting), this city earned the nickname Resort Capital of the Philippines. 88 Hotspring Resort and Spa - Calamba, Laguna Travelers and resort seekers who didn't read my blog The Adventurer's List would surely be unprepared for what's to come. It would surely take a day for you to choose and pick the most suitable reso...
Located in the vicinity of Mt. Nagpatong in Maragondon in the province of Cavite, Andres Bonifacio Shrine and Eco-tourism Park mark the supposed place where Andres Bonifacio and his brothers Procopio were executed in 1897. Andres Bonifacio Shrine and Eco-tourism Park Andres Bonifacio Shrine and Eco-tourism Park History We learned from the previous post about Bonifacio Trial House the story of the trail leading up to the last days of Andres Bonifacio . Since I did not fully elaborate on his death, I think it is very relevant to talk about it now in relation to our featured destination - The Andres Bonifacio Shrine and Eco-tourism Park . Check out the images on the BAYANI Check out the images on the KKK A perfect angle to see the KKK and Bayani I'm wondering if that face is scared, shocked, or excited... The statue of Andres Bonifacio wearing a very fashionable camisa de chino Our local guide showed us the way to the peak of Mt. Nagpatong After his...
Roadside Station “Marine Island Okashima” ( 道の駅 マリーンアイランド岡島 ) is one of the roadside stations scattered all over Hokkaido. It is located along National Route 238 in 1978-13 Okashima, in the town of Esashi, Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan . Roadside Station “Marine Island Okashima” Roadside Station “Marine Island Okashima” Details Registered as an official roadside station on April 16, 1996, with Registration Number 28, Roadside Station "Marine Island Okajima" is a must-visit destination along National Route 238. Designed to mimic a ship sailing through the majestic Sea of Okhotsk, this roadside station is a favorite stop for travelers exploring Esashi Town and its scenic coastline. Roadside Station "Marine Island Okashima" - Esashi town, Hokkaido Prefecture Discover Esashi’s Seafood Treasures At the Esashi Town Specialty Products Direct Sales Shop , visitors can indulge in the best seafood the town has to offer. Highlights include: Hairy Crabs : Esa...
Utashinai Roadside Station , officially known as Roadside Station Utashinai Tyrol ( 道の駅 うたしないチロルの湯 ) , is one of the roadside stations around Hokkaido. Located at 72-2 Nakamura, Utashinai City , this station is more than just a stopover—it’s a gateway to discovering the charm of Hokkaido's Central, Northern, and Eastern regions. Utashinai Roadside Station Revisited 2023 My family and I first visited Utashinai Roadside Station on September 11, 2022 , during a memorable road trip spanning from September 9 to 11. At the time, it marked my 314th day in Japan as an Assistant Language Teacher (ALT) under the JET Programme . The visit was part of a cherished tradition: my daughter and I collect roadside station stamps for the Hokkaido Stamp Rally , a popular activity for locals and travelers alike. Utashinai Roadside Station - Utashinai City, Hokkaido Prefecture We returned on August 13, 2023 , my 650th day in Japan , making it the first stop on an exciting day trip through Mi...
Minamifurano Roadside Station ( 道の駅 南ふらの ) is one of the roadside stations spread around Hokkaido Prefecture. It is located along National Route 38 at 687 Ikutora in the town of Minamifurano, Sorachi District in Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan . Minamifurano Roadside Station Minamifurano Roadside Station Details Minamifurano Roadside Station is one of Hokkaido’s outstanding roadside stations, combining convenience, culture, and natural beauty in one remarkable location. Officially registered on April 22, 1993 , as Registration Number 3 , this popular stop is more than just a roadside station—it’s an experience that celebrates the charm and uniqueness of Minamifurano. Minamifurano Roadside Station - Minamifurano town, Hokkaido Prefecture A Landmark with Iconic Architecture One of the station’s standout features is its architecture, inspired by the town’s connection to canoeing on Lake Kanayama and the Sorachi River. The building’s design, shaped like the tip of a canoe’s axle, i...
10 Things to Do in Kitahiroshima City Kitahiroshima ( 北広島市 ) is a city located in the Ishikari Subprefecture of Hokkaido, Japan . It is the place where Dr. Clark left his famous words in "Boys Be Ambitious." The name " Kitahiroshima " literally means " North Hiroshima City ." On September 1, 1996, the town of Hiroshima was upgraded to city status. However, since there was already a city named Hiroshima in Hiroshima Prefecture, the municipality was renamed Kitahiroshima to avoid having two cities with the same name. For those planning to visit this vibrant city to check what it has to offer, here are the 10 Things to Do in Kitahiroshima City : Kitahiroshima City manhole cover 1. Take a picture of the manhole cover of Kitahiroshima . So far, I have seen 1 unique manhole cover. It is commonly found around the city. Hiroshima Shrine 2. Visit the Hiroshima Shrine ( 廣島神社 ) , the main shrine of Kitahiroshima City. You can visit at any time of day to o...
Hagoromo-tei Memuro Branch ( 回転ずし 羽衣亭 芽室店 ) is one of the two conveyor belt sushi restaurants of Ankai Co., Ltd. It is located at 1-42 Higashi 8-jo 9-chome in the town of Memuro, Kasai District in Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan . Hagoromo-tei Memuro Branch Hagoromo-tei Memuro Branch Details Established in 1983, Hagoromo-Tei proudly represents the Tokachi region, renowned for its high food self-sufficiency rate and natural abundance. This area, blessed with fertile fields, dairy farms, and rich fishing waters, provides the fresh, high-quality ingredients that define Hagoromo-Tei ’s menu. Hagoromo-tei Memuro Branch - Memuro town, Hokkaido Prefecture A Unique Sushi Experience The Hagoromo-Tei Memuro Branch offers a sushi experience that combines quality, variety, and affordability. The rotating conveyor features an enticing selection of beautifully crafted sushi, catering to both traditional tastes and adventurous foodies. Seasonal specials add an exciting touch, ensuring eve...
Kunimare Sake Brewery ( 国稀酒造㈱ ) , located in the charming town of Mashike in Hokkaido, is the northernmost sake brewery in Japan . With a history spanning over a century, this iconic brewery has preserved its traditional sake-making techniques while earning its status as an important cultural property designated by the Japanese government. Kunimare Sake Brewery Revisited 2023 My journey to Kunimare has become a cherished tradition, with each visit offering a unique perspective and deepening my appreciation for Japanese culture. Kunimare Sake Brewery - Mashike town, Hokkaido Prefecture First Visit: A Memorable Introduction My first encounter with Kunimare Sake Brewery was on April 10, 2022 , my 160th day in Japan as an ALT under the JET Programme . Accompanied by my ALT friends, we were awestruck by the sheer historical significance of the brewery. Exploring its informative exhibits and indulging in a free sake tasting session made for an unforgettable cultural experience. Sec...
My family and I had the opportunity to explore Asahiyama Zoo ( 旭川市旭山動物園 ) for the first time on November 20, 2022 , marking my 384th day in Japan as an ALT under the JET Programme . It was the highlight of our day trip to Asahikawa City. We all enjoyed the numerous facilities in the zoo. Asahiyama Zoo Revisited 2023 That didn’t stop me from bringing my siblings there during our Sibling Roadtrip #3 when they visited Hokkaido last July 27, 2023 . It was the highlight of the day, and we spent the whole day exploring the vast zoo. Asahiyama Zoo - Asahikawa City, Hokkaido Prefecture A Brief History of Asahiyama Zoo Located at the northernmost part of Japan, Asahiyama Zoo was inaugurated on July 1, 1967, under the visionary leadership of then- Mayor Kōzō Igarashi . The zoo initially showcased 75 animal species, and despite challenges like dwindling attendance, it reinvented itself into a leading wildlife conservation center. Innovative exhibits introduced since the late 1990...
Located in the municipality of Nasugbu in the province of Batangas, Munting Buhangin Beach Camp is one of the few privately owned resorts in the area that doesn't really require memberships for visitors to enjoy. Munting Buhangin Beach Camp Munting Buhangin Beach Camp Details Although Munting Buhangin Beach Camp doesn't have white sand to boast, it's quite an isolated place which makes the resort stand out. Its light brown sand, sprinkled with different kinds of shells, is cleaned daily by the dedicated staff of the resort. Sadly, during my visit, a broken piece of glass buried in the sand gave one of my toes a deep cut but I know that it's just a rare case (no one needs to be fired) and nobody wanted that to happen. Munting Buhangin Beach - Nasugbu, Batangas One of the best places to go camping... ...or rent nipa huts and treehouse You might want to try kayaking here too Going up: parking / Going down: beach Munting Buhangin Beach Camp is ide...
Congratulations on reaching the 4M views.
ReplyDeleteThank you so much!
DeleteCongratulations on all your achievements Neil.
ReplyDeleteAlso, Rest in peace to your uncle.
Thank you so much!
Delete