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...
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...
Shiretoko National Park ( 知床国立公園 ) is one of the six national parks of Hokkaido. It covers most of the Shiretoko Peninsula, located at the northeastern tip of Hokkaido, Japan . Shiretoko National Park Shiretoko National Park Details Shiretoko National Park , located in eastern Hokkaido, is one of Japan’s last true frontiers—a dramatic, rugged peninsula where untouched wilderness meets rich cultural heritage. The name “ Shiretoko ” is derived from the Ainu language— sir etok , meaning “ the place where the earth protrudes.” This fitting name reflects the park’s geography, as the Shiretoko Peninsula juts boldly into the Sea of Okhotsk. Shiretoko National Park - Shiretoko Peninsula, Hokkaido Prefecture A UNESCO World Heritage Site of Natural Wonders Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2005 , Shiretoko is globally recognized for its exceptional biodiversity. The area is home to Japan’s largest population of Ussuri brown bears, as well as other remarkable wildlife such a...
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...
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...
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 “Utoro-Shirietoko” ( 道の駅 うとろ・シリエトク ) is one of the roadside stations of Hokkaido. It is located at 186-8 Utoronishi in the town of Shari, Shari District in Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan . Roadside Station “Utoro-Shirietoko” Roadside Station “Utoro-Shirietoko” Details Located along National Route 334 in Hokkaido, Roadside Station "Utoro-Shirietoko" is a must-visit destination for travelers heading to the breathtaking Shiretoko Peninsula. Officially registered on March 1, 2007 (Registration No. 99) , this uniquely designed roadside station resembles a traditional fisherman's watchtower, symbolizing the area's deep connection to the sea. Roadside Station "Utoro-Shrientoko" - Shari town, Hokkaido Prefecture A Key Tourism Base in Shiretoko Situated at the entrance of the Shiretoko World Natural Heritage Site , this roadside station serves as a central hub for visitors. It offers essential tourist services, local delicacies, and cultural ...
10 More Things to Do in Shari Shari ( 斜里町 ) is a picturesque town located in Hokkaido's Okhotsk Subprefecture, Japan . The town is vast and beautiful, offering a multitude of activities to enjoy. That’s why I’m back with another article about 10 More Things to Do in Shari . Shiretoko Satomi 1. Dine at Shiretoko Satomi ( しれとこ里味 ) and savor the delicious whelk kakiage bowl. For the perfect combination, pair it with the restaurant’s renowned soba. Shiretoko National Campsite 2. Set up a tent and enjoy an overnight stay at Shiretoko National Campsite ( 国設知床野営場 ) , a scenic campground nestled in the heart of nature. Surrounded by lush forests and with views of the Sea of Okhotsk, it offers a peaceful retreat where you can relax under the stars, listen to the sounds of wildlife, and truly immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Shiretoko Peninsula. Shiretoko Daiichi Hotel 3. Take a relaxing dip in the soothing hot springs of Shiretoko Daiichi Hotel ( 知床第一ホテル ) , where you can ...
Shiretoko Five Lakes , also called Shiretoko Goko ( 知床五湖 ) , are five lakes inside the Shiretoko National Park. It is located in the Shiretoko Peninsula, but all lakes are under the jurisdiction of the town of Shari, Shari District in Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan . Shiretoko Five Lakes Shiretoko Five Lakes Details The Shiretoko Five Lakes are one of the most iconic attractions in Hokkaido and a highlight of the UNESCO-listed Shiretoko National Park . Known as one of the celebrated "Shiretoko Eight Views," this scenic destination offers panoramic views of unspoiled wilderness, snow-capped peaks, and serene lake waters that reflect the surrounding beauty like a mirror. Shiretoko Five Lakes - Shari town, Hokkaido Prefecture Nature’s Fingerprints: A Landscape Shaped by Volcanoes These five picturesque lakes were formed thousands of years ago by the eruption of nearby Mount Io , with underground springs feeding the tranquil waters year-round. Their unique placement acr...
Nemuro Roadside Station ( 根室道の駅 ) , formally called Roadside Station Swan 44 Nemuro ( 道の駅 スワン 44 ねむろ ) , is one of the roadside stations around Hokkaido Prefecture. It is located along National Route 44 at 1 Rakuyo, Nemuro City in Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan . Nemuro Roadside Station Nemuro Roadside Station Details Located along National Route 44—the eastern gateway to Nemuro City— Nemuro Roadside Station has been welcoming travelers since its official registration on August 27, 1999 , as Hokkaido's 59th roadside station . Located in a place that preserves the charm of untouched nature, this roadside stop offers more than just a break from the road—it provides an immersive introduction to Nemuro’s wild beauty and rich seafood culture. Nemuro Roadside Station - Nemuro City, Hokkaido Prefecture One of the station’s standout features is its panoramic glassed-in viewing area, where visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of Lake Furen and Shunkunitai , two of Japan’s top birdw...
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