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...
Otaru Steam Locomotive Museum ( 蒸気機関車資料館 ) is a train museum that is part of the Otaru City Museum. It is located at 1 Chome-3-6 Temiya, Otaru City in Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan . Otaru Steam Locomotive Museum Otaru Steam Locomotive Museum Details The Otaru Steam Locomotive Museum is a fascinating train museum located at 1 Chome-3-6 Temiya, Otaru City, Hokkaido, Japan . As part of the Otaru City General Museum , the Steam Locomotive Museum offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the history of Hokkaido’s railways, steam engines, and railway technology. Otaru Steam Locomotive Museum - Otaru City, Hokkaido Prefecture A Historic Location The museum’s Main Building sits on 5.8 hectares of the former Temiya Line and Temiya Station, known as the birthplace of railways in Hokkaido. The site includes three facilities: the Railway , Science and History Museum , and the Steam Locomotive Museum , which is an expansive outdoor exhibition area showcasing historic railway vehi...
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...
10 More Things to Do in Otaru City Otaru ( 小樽市 ) is a historic city in Hokkaido’s Shiribeshi Subprefecture, Japan . Known for its charm and rich heritage, Otaru offers countless attractions and activities. That’s why I’m back with another guide— 10 More Things to Do in Otaru City . Sumiyoshi Shrine 1. Visit Sumiyoshi Shrine ( 小樽住吉神社 ) , a serene and historically significant Shinto shrine in Otaru. It’s a peaceful spot to pause, reflect, and offer prayers, surrounded by traditional architecture and lush greenery. If you’re a collector of goshuin ( 御朱印 ) , the beautifully stamped shrine books, or omamori ( お守り ) , the protective charms, make sure to bring cash, as these are not typically payable by card. O-Spa 2. Unwind at Otaru Onsen Spa , also known as O-Spa ( 小樽温泉 オスパ ) , an ideal retreat after a day of exploring the city. For just 850 yen, you can enjoy the soothing hot springs and let the warm waters melt away your fatigue. The facility offers a full-day spa...
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...
Otaru City Museum Main Building ( 小樽市総合博物館 本館 ), also called the Otaru City General Museum , is a museum with historical information & rail exhibits, including a model & several full-sized trains. It is located at 1 Chome-3-6 Temiya, Otaru City in Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan . Otaru City Museum Main Building Otaru City Museum Main Building Details The Otaru City General Museum is one of Hokkaido’s most fascinating cultural attractions, offering a unique glimpse into the history, nature, and technological development of Otaru and its surroundings. Originally established as the Otaru City Museum in June 1956, it was the fourth city museum in Hokkaido. In July 2007, the museum merged with the Otaru City Youth Science Museum at the former Otaru Transportation Memorial Hall site and was renamed the Otaru City General Museum . Otaru City Museum Main Building - Otaru City, Hokkaido Prefecture Two Distinct Facilities for Visitors The museum comprises two main facilities: th...
Otaru Shukutsu Panorama Observation Deck ( 小樽祝津パノラマ展望台 ) is a scenic spot in Otaru, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Ishikari Bay. It is located at 3-chome Shukutsu, Otaru, Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan . Otaru Shukutsu Panorama Observation Deck Otaru Shukutsu Panorama Observation Deck Details The Otaru Shukutsu Panorama Observation is one of the must-visit sightseeing spots in Otaru, Hokkaido. Located just a 15-minute walk from Otaru Aquarium, this observation deck is perfect for travelers looking to enjoy stunning views of Ishikari Bay and the Sea of Japan. Easily accessible by car with free parking, it’s a convenient stop for both day-trippers and long visits. Otaru Shukutsu Panorama Observation Deck - Otaru City, Hokkaido Prefecture Breathtaking Panoramic Views of Ishikari Bay Perched on a hill in northeastern Otaru City at about 70 meters above sea level, the observation deck offers sweeping panoramic views in every direction. Visitors can see the sparkling waters ...
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...
Kabayan Beach Resort is one of the top beachside resorts in Laiya. It is located in Laiya, San Juan in the province of Batangas in the Philippines. Kabayan Beach Resort Kabayan Beach Resort History Kabayan Beach Resort is one of the oldest among the numerous resorts lined up along the shores of Laiya. In its 20 years in the business, Kabayan Beach Resort managed to successfully compete with the newer resorts by providing competitive rates and by upgrading its facilities and amenities to cater to the different wants of the guests. Kabayan Beach Resort - San Juan, Batangas Welcome to Kabayan Beach Resort The front office of Kabayan Beach Resort Kabayan Beach Resort Facilities: Try out the banana boat ride Banana boat ride (min 5 pax) - P300 / head for 15 minutes Flying Fish (min 6 pax) - P400 / head for 15 minutes Speed boat (max 4 pax) - P8,500 /hour Kayak - P300/ hour Billiards - P100/hour Aside from these, Kabayan Beach Resort is partnered wit...
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