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...
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...
Cape Ogon Seaside Park ( 黄金岬海浜公園 ) is a coastal treasure in Rumoi City, Hokkaido, steeped in natural beauty and rich history. My visits to this stunning location span several seasons, each offering unique experiences. Cape Ogon Seaside Park Revisited 2023 A Journey Through Time I first visited Cape Ogon Seaside Park during a bike trip around Rumoi City on November 3, 2021 , coinciding with Japan’s Cultural Day holiday . The crisp autumn air and scenic coastal views made it a memorable introduction to this picturesque spot. Cape Ogon Seaside Park - Rumoi City, Hokkaido Prefecture My next visit was during spring on May 22, 2022 , when the park was vibrant with life and color. But it was my most recent visit on July 25, 2023 , that truly stood out. This summer trip marked my 631st day in Japan as an Assistant Language Teacher (ALT) under the JET Programme and was special because I shared it with my siblings during their first visit to Hokkaido. Despite the windy conditions...
Kitahiroshima City Eco Museum , officially called Kitahiroshima City Eco Museum Center Innovation Station ( 北広島市エコミュージアムセンター知新の駅 ), is a local museum that features the history of Kitahiroshima. It is located at 3 Chome-1 Hirobacho, Kitahiroshima City in Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan . Kitahiroshima City Eco Museum Kitahiroshima City Eco Museum Details Kitahiroshima City Eco Museum stands as the central hub of the region's "roofless museum" concept—a dynamic initiative to celebrate and preserve the area's rich natural and historical treasures. This eco-centric museum offers an immersive journey through time, from the birth of Earth to the modern era, blending educational exhibits with breathtaking views of Hokkaido’s natural beauty. Kitahiroshima City Eco Museum - Kitahiroshima City, Hokkaido Prefecture A Walk Through Earth's History: Permanent Exhibits The Kitahiroshima City Eco Museum 's permanent exhibitions on the second floor take visitors on an extraord...
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...
Nakafurano Hokuseiyama Lavender Garden ( なかふらの 北星山ラベンダー園 ) , or simply Hokuseiyama Lavender Fields , is a mountainside lavender garden that has an amazing view of Nakafurano. It is located at 1-41 Miyamachi in the town of Nakafurano, Sorachi District, Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan . Nakafurano Hokuseiyama Lavender Garden Nakafurano Hokuseiyama Lavender Garden Details Nestled along the mountainside of Mt. Hokusei , the iconic symbol of Nakafurano, Hokuseiyama Lavender Garden is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. This picturesque spot offers a unique blend of vibrant blooms, breathtaking views, and seasonal festivities that showcase the beauty of Hokkaido across all four seasons. Nakafurano Hokuseiyama Lavender Garden - Nakafurano town, Hokkaido Prefecture Summer Splendor: Lavender Fields and Panoramic Views During summer, the Hokuseiyama Lavender Garden transforms into a vibrant hill of relaxation adorned with colorful flowers. As you ascend the ...
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 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...
The Former Shimamatsu Post Office ( 旧島松駅逓所 ) is a preserved former post station facility, which is not a historical landmark of Kitahiroshima City. It is located at 1-1 Shimamatsu, Kitahiroshima City in Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan . Former Shimamatsu Post Office Former Shimamatsu Post Office Details The Former Shimamatsu Post Office offers a captivating glimpse into Japan's rich history of transportation and pioneering development. Once a vital post station, this facility played a crucial role in facilitating the movement of people, horses, and goods across the rugged terrain of Hokkaido. With its roots tracing back to the Edo period, the Former Shimamatsu Post Office remains a significant symbol of the island’s development during the Meiji era and beyond. Former Shimamatsu Post Office - Kitahiroshima City, Hokkaido Prefecture The Role of Post Stations in Hokkaido's Development Post stations, like the Former Shimamatsu Post Office , were established in regions with limited a...
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