The Japanese Art of Forest Bathing

The Japanese know natural healing better. They invented the term "Shinrin-yoku,"  which was popularized in Japan in the '80s and later introduced to the world. 

Forest bathing isn't taking a bath in the forest in a literal sense. It simply means reconnecting with nature and disconnecting from life's stressors -- causing diseases.

It's been a year since I've lived in a tranquil rural area in my hometown. It's a countryside haven, a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Since the beginning of the pandemic and due to the lockdown, some plans have been able to happen, and I haven't been able to come back to Manila.

I'm living my best life away from distraction and pollution; forest bathing on weekends is my healing wonder. It's all we need in times of stress and whenever we need to relax and rejuvenate. It cleanses and purifies our physical and mental bodies.

The Japanese are considered world leaders in health and longevity. Their holistic and admirable approach to health and wellness is why they hold the world record for having supercentenarians. 

We Filipinos have embraced this Japanese form of natural healing. Forest bathing is gaining recognition, and we, especially among health and fitness enthusiasts, are proving our adaptability and commitment to holistic wellness.

Hikers, trekkers, mountain climbers, and yoga and meditation practitioners are among those groups gaining from the healing benefits of forest bathing.

In the Philippines, there are numerous places where you can easily experience the rejuvenating effects of forest bathing on a day trip.

In the Philippines, there are places where I've had forest bathing on a day trip. Camp John Hay in Baguio City is where you can find the most pine trees. And has the most forest cover in the area.

At Camp John Hay, Baguio City, Philippines

That was a refreshing forest bathing experience as I felt the foggy place's mists. It feels so great to be surrounded by trees, which give off natural cleansing energy.

Bucari Highlands in Iloilo, Philippines, is one of the best mountain resort destinations in the country.

When we visited, it was rainy on the way up and had a foggy and misty climate. Like Baguio City, it has many pine trees, making the environment more relaxed.

Bucari, Iloilo, Philippines

I've also enjoyed forest bathing in other places, such as Mount Arayat National Park in Pampanga, Philippines. The La Mesa Eco-park in Quezon City, Philippines, and Naddi Village in Dharamshala, India.

My parents were inspired to develop our farm over a decade ago, so they planted Mahogany trees, making it a mini-forest. The trees have reached their peak maturity and are tall, providing cool shade in the surrounding area. 

 

Our Mahogany Tree Park

So, every time we visited the farm, I would do forest bathing. I would walk barefoot and remain under the trees until I reached a meditative state, feeling the serenity and inhaling the life force. 

Anyone can do it. When life gets tough, we must take slow and find a greener space to unwind and re-energize. 

The Japanese people are doing it as a lifestyle, so we can learn and adopt their healthy and balanced lifestyle.

©️2020 Del Cusay

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👉 The Highlands of Baguio

👉 The Highlands of Bucari

👉 Stairway to the Mountain

Living with the Gods in McLeod Ganj

A balanced living where nature meets progress and development. It's a place that's a blend of culture and faith.

These are the Indians and the Tibetans, living in harmony with the Gods in McLeod Ganj.

In February 2013, I traveled to be with the Gods in McLeod Ganj. They call it "Little Lhasa" because it had had a large population of Tibetans in exile since 1959 when the Indian Government accepted them and gave them a place to establish their Government while in exile. 

That's only in India. They warmly embrace refugees and protect their rights, safety, and security. 

The greatest love is the Indian Government's support of their expression of faith in Tibetan Buddhism.

My journey in McLeod Ganj was graced by a unique encounter with the Dalai Lama, the Spiritual leader of the Tibetans in exile. I was fortunate to meet him at his residence, where he shared profound insights about 'Jataka Tales' with local and international pilgrims. His wisdom and humility left a lasting impression on me, and I felt truly blessed to have had this experience.

I'm a Christian, but I've studied Major religions in India for over a year and incorporated their beliefs into my faith.

The world would be better if we were not too fanatic about our religious affiliation. When people would tend to fight for their faith as the best and the only truth, I would try to learn and understand others' faith deeply.

I befriend people of different backgrounds and faiths in India. It's about respect and understanding, not prejudice and religious superiority. 

With the universal God, we're all equal. This concept of a universal God means that God appears in different places and times in a completely different image depending on the culture and language unique to each country. It's a belief that unites us all, regardless of our religious affiliations.

When I was in India, their Gods were my Gods. The Gods and the Goddesses in Hinduism, Buddhism, Sikhism, Islam, and Christianity. All are Gods, but also a universal God.

In McLeod Ganj, I felt the Divine Beings, the Gods of the Tibetans and the Indians. It was different images, but I prayed to their Gods on its universal form.

Stepping into the Namgyal Monastery was a transformative experience. It was a union with the Divine that didn't diminish my Christian faith but instead deepened and enriched it. 

That's why Major religions thrive in India, and people learn to live in harmony and reverence for each other's faith.

My visit to Himachal Pradesh was divinely inspired. I traveled alone, guided by my faith in the Divine and a deep sense of spiritual purpose. I felt called to make this journey, and I knew it would be transformative. 

Whether you're a Hindu, Buddhist, Sikh, Muslim, or Christian, we're all brothers and sisters here on earth. We share a common humanity, a beautiful tapestry of shared experiences and emotions. Your suffering is also my suffering, and our joys are shared. We are all part of a larger, interconnected whole bound by our shared humanity.

During these challenging times, we need a sense of shared humanity. We must pray for each other without boundaries, religious affiliations, prejudice, or discrimination. We need love, the purest form of reverence for God, to guide us and inspire hope. It's this love that will see us through, that will inspire us to be better, to do better, and to create a world of understanding and respect.

Just love.

Ultimately, our love for humanity is our highest reverence for God. It's a love that transcends religious boundaries and unites us all. It inspires us to be better, to do better, and to create a world of understanding and respect. 

So it is.

©️ 2020 Del Cusay

Strolling in the Garden of Dreams

A Garden in the city balances life and achieves a healthier lifestyle. It's a breath of fresher air amidst the toxicity.

With an urban garden in the city center, I was fortunate to have an afternoon stroll in the fully restored Garden of Dreams in Kathmandu, Nepal, in August 2013. It reopened to the public six years after several decades of closure.

While Kathmandu's lifestyle may not be as lavish as that of big cosmopolitan cities, it is steeped in a unique and fascinating culture, making it a destination that piques curiosity and invites exploration. 

The entire city of Kathmandu blends cultural heritage with a modern society due to its preserved structures, such as monuments and temples, and the restoration of public places like the Garden of Dreams and other modern infrastructures.

Stepping into the walled garden, I was immediately enveloped in a serene atmosphere, a stark contrast to the bustling city just outside. It was a mere 5 minutes from my hotel, a perfect spot for a peaceful respite, where one can truly unwind and find inner peace.

The Walled Urban Garden

One of the most striking aspects of the garden is its European-style architecture, a feature that became more pronounced after its restoration with the assistance of the Austrian Government. The garden boasts six pavilions, each representing a different season of Nepal, earning it the moniker, the "Garden of the Six Seasons." 

The garden has a veranda, fountains, and a pergola, giving it a European vibe. Also, the Amphitheater is where visitors can sit or lie down to chat or read a book. Such a relaxing scene.

The Amphitheater

European-inspired pergola

The garden's lush greenery, vibrant flowers, and well-maintained shrubs and trees are testaments to the dedication of its caretakers. Its pristine condition and rejuvenating ambiance are truly inspiring.

I appreciate art, so I spent time at the gallery and conversed with the locals. That was a meaningful encounter as I learned more about their culture. 

Café by the garden

It was a delightful afternoon stroll at the Garden of Dreams, and before leaving, I had a cup of cappuccino as I reflected on and planned my next journey around Kathmandu.

The Garden of Dreams is a testament to the need for green spaces in urban areas. Its sophisticated design and the beauty it exudes after restoration inspire more cities to adopt similar gardens, offering a much-needed respite from the hustle and bustle of city life.

The Garden of Dreams. The Garden of the Six Seasons. A garden for the soul.

©️ 2020 Del Cusay

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The Gaddi Tribe of Naddi Village

When I step foot in Dharamshala, I'll have a pleasant vacation with its friendly vibe. That was a long 12-hour bus ride from New Delhi, India, and I promised my stay would be worth it, like a lifetime vacation.

Emotions are still alive whenever I flashback to my soulful journey in the lower Himalayan foothills of Dharamshala in Himachal Pradesh. It was a journey filled with awe-inspiring landscapes, heartwarming encounters, and profound tranquility. Seven years have passed, but the memories still live on.

A little rain greeted me at the bus station in McLeod Ganj as I looked for a taxi heading to the hotel in Naddi Village -- the home of the Gaddi Tribe, known for their unique customs, traditional attire, and warm hospitality.            

That was a cold and shivering early morning check-in at around 7 a.m., so I unpacked my things, had a little rest, enjoyed a cold shower, had my first breakfast of steaming hot momos and butter tea, and got ready for my first day of tour and adventure in the land of the Tibetans-in-exile in McLeod Ganj.

I spent four days exploring McLeod Ganj and saw and heard from The Dalai Lama when he talked about his place in the Tsuglagkhang temple.

While McLeod Ganj was the bustling town center, it was in Naddi Village that I found true serenity. It was a blissful experience, a peaceful retreat from the world.

Just a few steps away from the hotel where I stayed in the home of the sweet and gentle Naddi tribe. I've met several Gaddi people, including children and adults, and learned about their culture, livelihood, and living conditions. A little interaction but a meaningful observation.

An effortless yet joyful and soulful living in the mountains. When I met them downhill, the Gaddi people, mostly shepherds, took care of their flocks and did their morning activities.

Little kids are courteous, with their rosy cheeks and smiling faces. They have grown up to be refined young ladies and gentlemen. 

At Naddi View Point, near the hotel, I was finally face to face with the majestic Dhauladhar range. I was spellbound by its beauty, a sight I had never witnessed before. It was a moment of profound tranquility, and the snow-capped peak was simply breathtaking.

Even when I'm back at the hotel, I can't get over that experience. I've been to some of the mountains in the Philippines, but seeing the Dhauladhar range is purely captivating. 

I was finally in the Middle Himalayas. A dream turned into a reality.

My time in Dharamshala was a profound experience that I will always hold dear. It's a memory I will cherish and revisit for a lifetime. Since then, I've made a promise to return, and I hope to fulfill it one day.

I had breakfast at the hotel's roof deck restaurant and had the most beautiful view of the Dhauladhar. It's a picturesque view as if heaven were real. India is genuinely the Home of the Gods, and I felt the Divinity of the place—a soulful solitude in a paradise closer to heaven.

I will never forget Dharamshala, a wondrous place in the Indian State of Himachal Pradesh. I will never forget the beautiful natural scenery and the Naddi people of Naddi Village.

India has a prominent place in my heart. I have learned much about these places and met soulful and endearing people like the Gaddi of the Naddi Village. When the Kingdom of heaven is on earth, it would have been there in the Dhauladhar, and I've met God there and live forever here in my heart.

©️ 2020 Del Cusay

Sweet Smiles of the Negrense

The Negros Island in the Philippines. Home of the sweet smiling people, or we call them Negrense or Negrosanon.

In December 2014, after my Journey in the city of Dumaguete in Negros Oriental, I took almost 7 hours of land travel going to Bacolod, the capital city of Negros Occidental. 

From the Eastern to Western Negros, I had a journey after a fulfilled short visit to the "City of Gentle People" in Dumaguete.

I was undoubtedly in the land of the 'sweet and charming' people since I was at the sugar center of the Philippines... The Negros Island. 

From Dumaguete to Bacolod, you'll see massive sugarcane plantations on both sides of the road, passing by several cities.

Yes, Negros Occidental is the province of the Philippines with the most cities, primarily due to its prosperous sugar industry. 

The sugar industry is so huge that it supplies the entire Philippines and even exports it to other countries.

Arriving in Bacolod after a long bus journey, I was greeted with a Negrense brand of hospitality, a sweet smile, and a pleasant, melodious voice.

I'm in Bacolod! The City of Smile is the home of the famous "Maskara Festival."

That was my 5th time visiting Bacolod, and I love returning to one of the most highly urbanized cities and one of the most livable cities in the Philippines.

In Bacolod and the entire Negros, people live a good life no matter what challenges they may be going through; they still keep on surviving and never forget to smile.

My highlight of the visit to Negros Island was a day tour of "The Ruins," which is an Italian-inspired architectural mansion built in the early 1900s and was burned during world war 2.

Garden by the ruins

A mansion built with the love of a wealthy Sugar baron to his Portuguese wife. The love story is just as romantic as the heritage of "the ruins." 

Sweet as the Negrense, they produce sweet products, most of which are my favorite. Muscovado sugar is the healthiest of its kind and an ingredient in making sweet delicacies like "Piaya and Pinasugbo," which are two of the most popular and a-must try delicacy if you visit Bacolod and Negros Island. 

After the pandemic, I hope to try the sweet smiles again. When the world loses its smiles, the Negrense will always give their most adorable smiles to anyone. During this time, that's all we need—a sweet smile.

The people of Negros Island are some of the most refined and kind people I've met. Beyond their sweet smiles, they deserve a precious life. A life that is full of hope, meaning, and inspiration.

©️ 2020 Del Cusay

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👉Campus Tour at the Silliman University

👉The Ruins and the Love Story

Campus Tour at the Silliman University

Located in the Eastern Negros Island, the enchanting 'City of Gentle People' awaits your discovery. This is none other than the picturesque city of Dumaguete, nestled in the province of Negros Oriental, Philippines.

In December 2014, I fulfilled my desire to visit Dumaguete and see the first American learning Institution in the Philippines and Asia- Silliman University.

Upon the invitation of the student government organization, I delivered a talk about "Balancing Life Strategies" and "Stress Management" to their officers and select staff.

That was a memorable talk with full attention and the desire to learn from the student leaders. If I had more time, I could have given another speech to some faculty and staff members. 

However, a day visit to Silliman University is not just a visit; it's an experience. The campus tour, with its diverse departments, historical and iconic buildings, chapel, open grounds, and library, is a testament to the university's commitment to providing an ideal and conducive place for higher learning.

At the Silliman University Library

At the Silliman Hall

I was impressed with the clean, green campus. The tree-lined Acacia provides cool shade plus the windy breeze from the sea; indeed, they have the best campus in town and one of the best in the country.

Silliman University faces the sea. You can stroll the baywalk along Rizal Boulevard with just a few minutes walk. That windy breeze makes a good place for walking along the boulevard. That's the place where I reminisced about the time when I was a student in college. Those times when I was full of hope and dreams, just like any student would.

My heart is set on revisiting Dumaguete and its renowned Silliman University. I yearn to once again bask in the politeness and friendliness of the students, and to be enveloped in their genuine hospitality.

As I remember, in higher learning, we aspire for growth and have the burning desire to achieve our most cherished hopes and dreams. Those are the times when we have enough energy and passion for learning.

Those student leaders I've met may now achieve excellence in their chosen fields. They may now be living their dreams and unleashing their untapped potential. They may now live their most extraordinary life and follow their ultimate heart's desire.

Learning continues after leaving College or University. It's a continuous process and a lifelong journey. We continue to learn along the way as we embark on challenges and achieve new career and life milestones.

©️ 2020 Del Cusay

Serenity in Nan Lian Garden

Amidst the constant motion of city life, I always manage to find a serene escape. It's a piece of pure calmness and soulful paradise, a stark contrast to the hustle and bustle that surrounds it. 

A pond... A rock formation... A waterfall... All that can be found in an oasis of pure joy; a magnificent city garden.

A bustling megacity like Hong Kong isn't just about a magnificent and stunning skyline. It also boasts some of the most beautiful and refined traditional Chinese landscaped gardens.

The entrance of Nan Lian Garden

I've found a peaceful ambiance in the busy area of Diamond Hill in Kowloon, Hong Kong, where I've found an ancient Tang dynasty-style complex: the Chi Lin Nunnery and the Nan Lian Garden.

That's a refined piece of ancient Chinese architecture brought back to life in Modern-day Hong Kong, with towering residential skyscrapers and a mountain range in a backdrop. 

Nan Lian Gardens' Wooden Gate

The entrance to the complex is a masterpiece of design, welcoming you with the garden's natural elements of lush greenery, ornamental rocks, and a wooden gate. It's a sight that inspires awe and a sense of true welcome.

Passing through the wooden gate leads you to one of the beautiful attractions: the golden pagoda with an attached red wooden bridge. Colors that bring good luck and prosperity according to Chinese beliefs.

The Golden Pavilion/Pagoda

A few steps from the Golden Pagoda is the Chi Lin Nunnery, a Buddhist temple converted into a school, library, and home for the elderly. With its intricate wooden architecture and serene surroundings, the nunnery is a testament to China's rich cultural heritage.

The Chi Lin Nunnery is an impressive piece of Chinese architecture with a koi-filled pond surrounding it. The wooden structure is a work of art from ancient times (618 AD to 907 AD), revived in modern times.

The Chi Lin Nunnery

To better understand ancient Chinese architecture, I had a solemn moment inside the Chinese Timber Architecture Gallery. The gallery is a place to discover the architecture of other cities in China at different periods. It provides a fascinating insight into the evolution of Chinese architecture from the Tang Dynasty to the present day.

The Nan Lian Garden is a Tang Dynasty-inspired garden built in modern times. The Tang Dynasty, known for its cultural and artistic achievements, is a rich source of inspiration for the garden's design. It's reminiscent of old but refined Chinese architecture with a balanced element of nature.

The Chi Lin Nunnery

The garden's tranquil ambiance offers visitors a great sense of peace and rejuvenation. It's not just a typical Chinese garden, but it's filled with learning about the Chinese way of living back in the old days -- the earliest civilization.

Heritage and culture must be preserved for the world to see and experience. The Nan Lian Garden is not a typical attraction; it has an old-school Chinese ambiance in a modern setting—teleported back in time.

©️ 2020 Del Cusay

Sunset Viewing in Manila Bay

A reddish-gold hue. That's the best sunset I've ever seen. It's not just stunningly beautiful; it's a sight that fills you with awe, a moment of pure wonder.

There's something mysterious in the silhouette—a seeming work of art. But it's not just a painting—it's a real, living masterpiece!  

What you see in the picture is what you get when witnessing it.

That's the Manila Bay sunset. Indeed, as many people attest, it's one of the world's best, and foreign tourists are among the crowds. It's a famous attraction when visiting the Philippine capital city of Manila, and those who have the chance to witness it can consider themselves truly fortunate.

At Harbour Square baywalk, CCP Complex

The stunning glow until dusk, before it disappears, makes the Manila Bay sunset beautiful. And so you get a picture-perfect 'silhouette,' a mysterious shadow against the background that glows.

On June 6, 2019, I enjoyed strolling at the Harbour Square baywalk at the Philippine Cultural Center complex. After having an afternoon coffee at the café, I waited to glimpse the sunset. That was my last sunset viewing at Manila Bay before returning to my hometown on Panay Island.

While strolling, I can't help but appreciate this natural wonder before my eyes and with the hundreds of other people who share smiles and happiness. The Manila Bay sunset is not just a sight to behold but a testament to the beauty of our natural world, a beauty that we all share and cherish.

The Harbour Square baywalk

Families, groups of friends, and even local and foreign solo travelers may have forgotten their worries and relieved their stresses. It does healing wonders to the soul. It captures' emotions and captivates the mind.

Manila Bay may not be perfect. It has flaws and needs some healing, too. Only people who have been there can understand the problem and how to fix it.

A year later, Manila Bay is the center of controversies despite the pandemic. These controversies revolve around the government's beach nourishment project, which aims to transform a portion of the bay into a white-sand beach.

The beach nourishment project aims to beautify a portion of Manila Bay with artificial white sand. The question is, 'Is it timely?' or 'Is it necessary and appropriate?'

It's not authentic white sand like in Boracay or Palawan, but it's from a crushed Dolomite rock transported from the island province of Cebu.

Just recently, in just a few days, a portion of Manila Bay turned into a white sand beach and was partially opened to the public on September 19, 2020.

Manila Yacht Club

Thousands have flocked to witness how the area transformed from natural black sand to coveted white sand.

People have different opinions on filling in white sand. Without an Environmental Impact Assessment, things can go wrong. 

The main attraction is the natural and charming sunset view of Manila Bay. It's not the color of the sand, after all. 

The Manila Bay skyline

Yes, we have several years to go before we can revive the ecosystem and beauty of Manila Bay. But we see the excitement of the people who want a transformational development and a beautiful personal experience when they stroll on Manila's famous baywalk. This ongoing transformation fills us with hope for the future of Manila Bay.

When I return to Manila, I will be glad to witness the alluring sunset again. I will enjoy a soulful moment and, like last, see people's happy faces. 

Manila Bay is a precious jewel of the Philippines. It's up to all of us to care for it, show our concern for it, and love it. We each have a role to play in preserving this natural wonder.

The Manila Bay sunset

As we slowly regain Manila Bay, we take pride as Filipinos in showing the world a better Philippines—the "Pearl of the Orient Seas" today and beyond.

© 2020 Del Cusay

Island Hopping in Guimaras

We need to regain ourselves. At times, we get stressed, and it's due to various stressors of daily living, such as multitasking work, daily commute, never-ending problems, and the pandemic.

This global health crisis, the pandemic, has brought our lives to a standstill. It's a battle we all fight, a choice between victim and survivor.

Since the lockdown early this year, we have been thinking of ways to stay mentally healthy daily. How to keep our sanity and not experience loneliness, apathy, and depression.

Every day is a battle for survival, but we have a powerful weapon-our thoughts. We can divert our consciousness toward happy thoughts, reminiscing about the happiest moments in our lives. These are the times when we truly live our best lives, and it's a reminder that we can always find joy even in the darkest times.

The boat ride from Iloilo to Guimaras Island

For me, there's one great way to relieve stress and rejuvenate: traveling to beautiful places and spending weekend getaways for pure thinking moments, distressing through meditation, and appreciating the healing wonders of nature.

Every Sunday, I reminisce about the times when I had my Soulful travel moments. Due to restrictions, we can't travel during this pandemic, so the best way is to have a mental vacation. 

It works! It's as good as visiting the place in real-time, with almost the same feeling. It's just that we process with our mental power—our wild imagination.

The power of the mind is a miraculous healer. It contributes significantly to our well-being. When we're in a state of sadness, loneliness, or depression, we lack the energy to do our daily tasks and be productive. But when we're happy, we're inspired to do great things and lift others with our positive energy. It's a reminder that our mental health is just as important as our physical health, and we should always prioritize it.

Positive energy is contagious, and so is negativity. That's what I believe.

I would rather be with someone or a group that inspires me or makes me happy than suffer from negative emotions brought by someone, a group, or, worst of all, a personal creation—becoming an enemy of oneself.

Creating a mental vacation is a powerful tool. It's a heavenly experience that doesn't require leaving the comfort of your home. With the power of our imagination, we can visit almost any place we dream of, those on our bucket list.

One of my favorite Islands in the Philippines is Guimaras. It's one of the most minor Islands in the Province, and I'd like to return whenever I am in the region.

Island Cove on Guimaras Island

Guimaras is just a 20-minute boat ride from the coast of Iloilo province on Panay Island, so near the distance that both islands are visible.

One thing I like about Guimaras is the serenity of nature. It's not a very touristy place, so definitely not crowded, and you'll enjoy soulful moments on the waters, on the shore, or on a cliff.

Guimaras is not overdeveloped as compared to Island destinations like Boracay or Siargao. That's one reason I like it even more, especially since there are Filipino-style cottages and not huge hotels that can pollute the place's ecosystem. 

I hope Guimaras will retain its grandeur. It's a natural environment and will not be subject to over-commercialization.

The naturally beautiful environment on Guimaras Island

Guimaras is already beautiful in its present state, and many people would appreciate its hidden beauty and natural charm.

Guimaras is not just a tiny island; it has friendly, hospitable people with good hearts, making them different. It has the heart and soul at its best.

© 2020 Del Cusay

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👉 The Resilience of the Filipino Spirit: The People of Guimaras

Celebrating My Birthday at the Farm

Life is good. No matter our challenges, there's a reason to celebrate all the blessings and abundance.

Since I'm celebrating my birthday, I'm having it at the farm for the first time. It's also the first year we've started developing a portion for tree planting and, just recently, organic vegetable farming.

Celebrating my birthday in a new setting, surrounded by my family in my hometown, fills me with excitement. It's a stark contrast to last year's celebration in Manila, a time of joy and laughter before the onset of COVID-19.

2020 is a simple yet meaningful celebration as I contemplate life's meaning and purpose.

What's there waiting for me?

A lot has changed since the beginning of the pandemic. Uncertainties and vulnerabilities are on the consciousness. We know that our lives matter above all, that life is too short, and that life is precious.

The act of making a wish on your birthday is not just a tradition, it's a powerful manifestation. Our wishes have the potential to attract what we desire, and they become even more potent when they are accompanied by the heartfelt wishes of our loved ones.

Like a group prayer, we often materialize our wishes and hearts' desires when more people are there to celebrate with us.

However, as we reach a certain level of maturity through the years, we tend to direct our wishes to ourselves and more to the people who matter most in our lives.

Our wishes tend to become more specific,  less centered on material aspirations, and more on our well-being and enlightenment. The pandemic has made me realize the importance of health, family, and inner peace, and these are the things I find myself wishing for more and more on my birthday.

This pandemic teaches us to go back to the basics, to review and renew our lives, and to try to present a new 'us' to the world. For me, this 'new us' is about prioritizing what truly matters, appreciating the simple things in life, and being more mindful and present in each moment.

Celebrating a birthday at the farm is about celebrating the natural world. Not surrounded by many people but with trees, plants, and vegetables.

I am deeply grateful for another year of life, and I owe this gratitude to my family, friends, and the Divine, the source of all life. Your support and love have been my guiding light through life's challenges.

Life continues, and I will never forget that life is too short. We have to live it well and live our best life. Only the best life we deserve.

© 2020 Del Cusay

The Palace in the Sky

There's something mysterious about the ruins—the old, well-preserved structure built to last a lifetime.

That's what the ruins are for. To stand the test of time. 

In the Philippines, just an hour from Manila is the ruins we call the "Palace in the Sky," now more popularly known as "People's Park in the Sky," which gives a chilly feel due to its geographical location on the summit of Mount Gonzales in the province of Cavite.

At the veranda overlooking the Shrine of Our Lady, Mother of Fair Love

The view deck overlooking the Taal Lake

The structures' old and rustic charm attracts local and foreign visitors due to its breathtaking view of the famous Taal Volcano and Lake. 

Truly captivating!

The highest point. That's the description of the place, as it is located on the summit of the highest mountain in Cavite at 709 meters (2,326 ft.) above sea level. And so, it offers a 360-degree view of the Tagaytay Highlands, including nearby recreational parks and villages.

The story of how this "Palace in the Sky" became a famous ruin is different from the stories of the other ruins in the country.

What sets this ruin apart is its unique story, a tale that's unlike any other in the country.

The view deck overlooking the mountains

In the late 70s, during the administration of the late President Marcos, "Palace in the Sky" was commissioned to serve as a guest house for the visit of then-US President Ronald Reagan. That's a show of Filipino hospitality at its best. 

A royalty welcome and treatment.

However, the construction was left unfinished when the visit of US President Reagan was canceled.

We have been left with the "Ruins in the Sky" since then.

The rustic and mossy Palace ruins 

It's a bittersweet sight, imagining the beauty that could have been if the construction of the Palace in the Sky had been completed, but instead, it was left abandoned.

That was supposed to be consistent with the Imeldific brand, the highest extravagance attributed to former First Lady Imelda Marcos.

Honestly, I love the place on the summit. Although the ruins can be a little creepy at first sight, their beautiful ambiance captures the heart. 

It's clear that the Palace in the Sky was built with love and admiration, a testament to the beauty of the place.

The next time you visit Tagaytay, you should never miss this place. 

A must-visit! 

It's a great weekend getaway for the family, partners, or even solo travelers. It's a romantic destination that captivates the soul of anyone.

The "Palace in the Sky" is not just an abandoned ruin. It possesses timeless elegance and natural charm. It represents our glorious past and creates beautiful memories to last.

© 2020 Del Cusay