Showing posts with label Travel Inspirations. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Travel Inspirations. Show all posts

Sunday, July 4, 2021

Patan Durbar Square and the Royal City

Never before have I encountered a city as enchanting as Patan Durbar Square, nestled just eight kilometers south of Kathmandu. Its unique charm is a sight to behold.

Patan, the ancient name of present-day Lalitpur, holds a significant place in Nepal's history as the third-largest city, following Kathmandu and Pokhara.

While the old city of Patan offers a nostalgic tour of its royal past, there's one place that stands out—the Patan Durbar Square. This unique site is a treasure trove of history, art, and culture, waiting to be explored and appreciated.

I'm lucky to have visited one of the three Durbar Squares in the Kathmandu Valley, also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The other two Durbar Squares are in Kathmandu and Bhaktapur, but I needed help to visit them.

But then, as I entered Patan Durbar Square, I could sense its rich cultural past and the magnificent royal palace worth visiting.

It has 155 courtyards and 55 major temples significant to Hindus and Buddhists. I was able to visit one of the main temples and gained a great appreciation for architecture and the arts.

Patan is a city of fine arts. Its marvelous architecture evokes how skills are ingrained in its culture, preserved, and passed on to future generations. The artisans' craftsmanship is superb and brilliant as they create wood, stone, and metal carvings. 

Patan has preserved its rich tradition of artistic craftsmanship from the local woodcarvers and handicraft makers. Creative skills have lived on since the time of Royal King Newar. 

I was fortunate to visit Patan Durbar Square in 2013 before it was hit by a strong earthquake in April 2015. Some of the temples and structures were heavily damaged, but the good news is that they were reconstructed just like the original structure.

Walking on the red-tiled bricks of Patan Durbar Square, surrounded by the red wall bricks, was like stepping back in time. The fine arts and excellent craftsmanship of the past seemed to come alive, making it a truly unforgettable experience.

©️ 2021 Del Cusay

Sunday, June 27, 2021

Tranquility at the Lotus Temple

Where can we find peace in a world of noise, hatred, and wars? People would fight for their beliefs and feel superior to their religion. Country versus country, religion versus religion, people have endless fights about their ideas.

In a country of over one billion people, I've found a place where people unite to worship one God regardless of social status and religion.

The Bahรก'รญ House of Worship, also known as the Bahรก'รญ Temple or Lotus Temple, is a stunning modern structure that simply demands a visit to fully appreciate its awe-inspiring beauty. 

This architectural wonder was designed to resemble a lotus flower. It can be seen from the top, all sides, and even a kilometer away. It was built to house thousands of visitors from different places in India and nationalities worldwide.

It was a great moment when I challenged myself to visit the Lotus Temple in Delhi, India, sometime in December 2011. I remember the thousands of people inside the temple complex who endured the long lines to get inside the main temple. I had to follow the strict rules of patiently waiting in line and leaving the shoes barefooted inside the temple.

Stepping into the temple, I found a peaceful spot to sit. In the center, I meditated for an hour, surrounded by a serene silence. There were no religious objects, just the walls and interior designs. Being in the midst of people from all walks of life and different religions was a deeply calming and meditative experience, fostering a sense of unity and peace.

Witnessing people of opposing beliefs come together to worship in the same place filled me with a profound sense of inspiration and hope. This level of inclusivity is rare, as many religions impose exclusivity to protect their faith. Yet here, in the Bahรก'รญ Temple, all are welcome, and all are equal.

At the Bahรก'รญ Temple, everyone is a son of one God. And that all people believe in one God. That's the significance of the Bahรก'ฤฏ faith. It's about the oneness of humanity. No hatred, no prejudice, and no exclusive God. But only one God for all.

If every country had its Bahรก'รญ Temple, people, and even atheists, could have a place to visit to ponder their existence and purpose, to find meaning, and to contemplate the joy of living.

Bahรก'รญ faith taught me about the realization of one God for humanity. The same God I adore and pray for wherever I am and maybe.

©️ 2021 Del Cusay 

Sunday, May 30, 2021

Magical Night in Jaipur


To complete my journey to India's golden triangle, I was lucky to visit the lost Kingdom of Jaipur in Rajasthan.

Jaipur, the Pink City, is a unique and intriguing destination whose name derives from the pink hue of its many palaces and structures. This tradition dates back to the days of its monarchy.

It took us five hours from Delhi to reach Jaipur for a grand MDP talk about 'Harmonizing Power, love, and Light among Women. ' This talk, held at the Marriott Hotel, was a unique opportunity to learn about the empowerment of women in Indian society and the role of love and light in fostering harmony.

That was a well-organized event and an inspirational talk of Master Del Pe, as he empowered women about their societal role and awakened their inherent power.

Jaipur stands out among India's cities for its warm and welcoming nature. The hospitality of the Rajasthani people is not just a gesture but a heartfelt expression that makes every visitor feel appreciated and at home, even on a short visit.

Our visit to a Rajasthani specialty restaurant was a journey into enchantment. The cultural night, a celebration of their dance and music, was a mesmerizing experience. The vibrant colors of the traditional attire, the rhythmic beats of the music, and the graceful movements of the dancers left us captivated by the grace and beauty of their performances, offering a unique and unforgettable cultural experience.

It was time for dinner after the cultural presentation and the welcome drinks. We entered their indoor dining area and waited for the food to be served fresh and hot. 

It was a unique ambiance with a Rajasthani backdrop and a painting with dim lighting. We were seated on the floor in a typical Indian seating position. The servers carefully poured over the food on the plate for every meal course, including dessert. 

The Rajasthani cuisine was not just good; it was delicious. The light mood continued until we finished our meal, a delightful journey of flavors. The rich and diverse flavors of the cuisine left us craving for more, a perfect end to a satisfying meal. 

That was a fiery, hot night, from the cultural presentation to the sumptuous meal. I was enthralled by the performances and the delicious food. It was a night of fun and delight that I will never forget.


Magic happens when we see something unimaginable, and Jaipur showed us it's the best offering.

I finally completed the Golden Triangle from Delhi to Agra and Jaipur. Those were the best moments worth reminiscing about. The sense of accomplishment and the memories created along the journey inspire us to create more such memorable journeys.

© 2021 Del Cusay

Sunday, May 16, 2021

Pashupatinath Temple: Of Life and Death

All life comes to an end. That's a reality that most of us are scared of or in denial of the fate of human existence. In short, we'll all die. But what happens when we depart on our earthly journey? And so, one day, I was brought to a place to see the dead bodies for cremation rites on the holiest Bagmati River in Kathmandu, Nepal. 

My tourist guide brought me to one of the holiest Hindu temples in Kathmandu. He thought my visit would only be complete with it since it's declared a UNESCO World Heritage site and is a highly revered place among Hindus.

It was a unique place since the temples and ashrams were on the riverside. The Bagmati River is holy among Hindus, where they bring the dead bodies of their love for cremation rites.

I can't believe I have witnessed cremation rites open to the public. More than five dead bodies were cremated in the first hour since I arrived.

I was on the hill portion of the riverside, where other locals also came to witness. You can see the greyish-white smoke emitted from the dead bodies as they burn. You can imagine the smoky air in the cremation area from afar. I initially felt uncomfortable, but I must respect and learn from their religious beliefs.


Hindus believe our physical body is irrelevant as we die, so they cremate it instead of burying it. In Pashupatinath, families bring the dead body of their loved ones. It's to perform the last rites before they bid farewell to their dearly departed.

As the dead body arrives on the Bagmati riverside, they wash their feet with water from the river. They sprinkle some rice and shower some marigolds on the face before it gets burned. Then the ashes are scattered in the river. The family members would also walk three times clockwise around a wooden funeral pyre before placing the dead body on top.

That was an unforgettable experience back in 2013. Suddenly, it flashed back to when I watched the mass cremation rites on television on open grounds in New Delhi. This time, families cremate their loved ones who died due to Covid-19.


Pashupatinath temple is a holy site in honor of Lord Shiva, the destroyer in Hinduism.
When I stepped out of the Pashupatinath complex, I had mixed emotions. The place and the cremation rites may not be for the faint-hearted, but I survived.

I may not have enjoyed visiting Pashupatinath much, but I'm glad for the learnings. It was like reliving a lesson from my world history class. 

I've learned that when we die, our families will be there until the end to care for us. Our bodies may have vanished, but great memories remain in their hearts. Like Hindus, we may believe in the concept of karma and reincarnation. That may be that we don't only live once, but we're just waiting on our rebirth when our time ends.

©️2021 Del Cusay

Sunday, April 11, 2021

Boracay's Environmentally Conscious Tourism


Boracay Island in the Philippines is a mesmerizing paradise. It stands as one of the top tourist destinations and continues to be hailed as one of the world's most stunning beaches. 

Boracay Island in the Philippines is one of the top tourist destinations and remains one of the top beaches in the world. Various international magazines and travel websites recognize this island annually as one of the world's best, which has contributed to the influx of tourists from all over the world.

What I like about Boracay is its diversity, from different nationalities and locations where it suits the tastes and preferences of the tourists. It's like a melting pot of cultures and personalities, making it a world-class tourist destination.

However, beneath its picturesque facade, Boracay Island harbors some less appealing truths. During my visit in April 2016, I witnessed the environmental degradation that had taken hold, two years before President Duterte's decisive action to close the island for rehabilitation in April 2018.

For years, big businesses like hotels have deceived tourists and guests by providing reading material explaining the algae that make the shoreline dark green and unsightly. I can't believe how they disseminate disinformation by making it appear to be a natural occurrence.

I saw the big pipes from establishments that excrete wastewater to the shore, where untreated sewage is flowing, making the water in the area dark green and dirty.

The president called it a cesspool, and that observation is very evident. Then, he ordered a 6-month closure of the island. That move was a big sacrifice for the thousands of businesses and island workers and the number of affected tourists. The projected billions of pesos lost for the island's tourism paved the way to pursue its rehabilitation for intended revitalization.

How can we help our tourism significantly impact its sustainability and environmental protection? I believe that the 6-month rehabilitation of Boracay made us realize that money from tourism alone won't make us truly rich and progressive. However, our environmental consciousness as tourists will help destinations like Boracay become sustainable and highly livable.

Tourism is our number one industry, booming before the COVID-19 pandemic. When the lockdown happened, tourism was down and almost dying, but we've seen the clear waters of Boracay. Business establishments and tourists mainly contribute to the island's pollution.

Do we need to rehab our topmost islands every six years for six months? Well, that would surely hurt tourism, but it's for the good of the environment. We must balance tourism and its environmental impact to call it a paradise.

There's progress in Boracay compared to the first time I visited the island in 1998. However, it's becoming too commercial, and due to its fast-growing present-day development, the island may have lost its serenity and ambiance.

We need to amplify our tourism efforts and promote responsible practices. We are blessed with the most exquisite islands and beaches but also need environmentally conscious tourists and accountable businessmen. Let's leave no trace but footprints and wonderful memories, and this is how we can make a significant difference


When we can travel again without restrictions, we'll become better tourists. And together, we can help revive our tourism and our God-given paradise, knowing that positive change is not just a dream, but a tangible reality within our reach.

©️ 2021 Del Cusay


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๐Ÿ‘‰ Weekend Getaway in Boracay

Sunday, March 21, 2021

Walking Tour in Ermita


The Ermita district in downtown Manila, a grandeur of historical architecture, has been the economic and cultural center for centuries. It's where refined architectures of the 20th century are well-preserved or rebuilt back on their glorious days, a sight that never fails to inspire awe.

It's a unique experience to take a walking tour of Ermita, a historical site that pays homage to the bravery and patriotism of the Filipino people. The district, with its unique blend of Spanish and American colonial influences, is a testament to our rich history and is a sight to behold for both locals and tourists.

Ermita was once a posh community for Manila's elite and high society, the center for business, education, finance, religious and cultural activities. 

As the Philippine capital, I would always feel great and proud to walk on the historical streets of the old district of Ermita. There are so many emotions to cling to the past, from the Spanish to the American colonial times.

In an era where indoor malls often take precedence, the charm of a natural outdoor park like Rizal Park in Ermita is a nostalgic reminder of simpler times. It's a place where people would go for a weekend stroll and enjoy a relaxing ambiance, a reminder of the importance of outdoor spaces in our modern lives.

Rizal Park, a developed and well-maintained central park in the heart of Manila, serves as a cultural and recreational hub for the city's residents. It offers a variety of physical and recreational activities, making it a popular destination for health and leisure. 

Rizal Park, a cultural landmark in honor of the great Philippine national hero, Jose Rizal, remains the premier attraction for both local and foreign tourists. Rizal, an icon of democracy, bravery, and national identity, is highly revered and remains an idol of the Filipino people, especially the younger generations. His park is not just a place, but a symbol of our pride and belonging.


As a reverence to his heroism, it's always great to visit and be in touch with history in his life, emulate his ways, and learn about loyalty to one's country.

Before COVID-19, Rizal Park was fully vibrant, with many people doing their fitness and activities for leisure. On June 12, 2019, I attended the flag-raising in commemoration of the Philippine Independence Day, witnessing the presence of Vice President Robredo for the traditional wreath-laying at Rizal's monument. That was a great experience to be part of a historical moment.

Today, Rizal Park in Ermita remains beautiful even with few people due to COVID-19 restrictions. I've never imagined how things would change due to the pandemic, but somehow grateful to have chosen a historical site for a romantic walking tour experience.

Ermita's parks and streets, with their timeless charm and refined beauty, will continue to captivate visitors despite the modernization of the 21st century. Amidst the bustling metropolis and rising skyscrapers, they will remain a center of attraction, offering valuable insights from our rich past.


I may visit famous global landmarks, but I would always look back to have a deeper appreciation and reverence for our national heritage and national treasure.

Wherever we are, Manila will always be our home and our identity. Today and in years to come, we'll always cherish the good times, great memories, and lessons it brings.

©️ 2021 Del Cusay

Sunday, March 14, 2021

The Old Walls and Cobblestones of Intramuros

Walking through Intramuros's old walls and alleys gives a pleasant taste of what life was like back in time—a time when life seemed refined and where the arts were highly appreciated.

Today, the streets of Intramuros are back to life with people from all walks of life. It was exclusive to high-ranking Spanish officials, their families, and other Filipino mestizos. 

Intramuros gives a new perspective on culture and heritage where the past meets the Present. The old Manila district of Intramuros is full of tales as old as time and turns into a magical place from sunset to dusk and beyond. 

The San Agustin church is a beautiful architectural wonder hailed as a World Heritage site and the oldest Baroque church in the Philippines, built in the 16th century. It's a testament to the deep and meaningful faith of the Filipinos then, and it's continued to be preserved and restored for generations to come.

Intramuros is also home to the premier church and a minor Basilica—the Manila Cathedral. It's one of the most beautiful churches in the country and has stood the test of time. It was heavily devastated during wartime and rebuilt several times to regain its glory.

The faรงade of the Manila Cathedral is full of art, with sculptures similar to those of European pilgrim sites. It provides a beautiful backdrop and is always romantic. 

A year after the pandemic, more Filipinos, especially the younger generation, have a deeper appreciation and understanding of Intramuros's rich heritage. Although we may have lost foreign tourists during this time, we Filipinos have not lost our sense of pride and nationalism as we patronage our very own national treasure.

The old walls and cobblestone streets of Intramuros offer a glimpse of our past. They are a window to our soul as a strong nation and a true Filipino.

As we continue our journey, we show our deepest desires to fully understand our past and relate it to the Present. Our old Manila walks are just a great learning experience of remembering the past while living fully in the present moment --the Present times.

©️ 2021 Del Cusay

Sunday, March 7, 2021

The Highlands of Tagaytay

It must be scary when smoke emits high on a volcano, and the ashes fall. What's even more frightening is when the smallest active volcano disrupts people's lives.

That was the scene in January 2020 when the Taal volcano erupted. People were frightened and put on forced evacuation. Nearby establishments were closed, and many families lost their homes and livelihoods.

A year later, the people of Taal and Tagaytay have shown remarkable resilience. Life has returned to normal, and the beauty and grandeur of the famous lake continue to captivate one's soul from any distance.

The cool climate of Tagaytay is perfect for a bowl of beef bulalo and a cup of coffee with a breathtaking view of Taal Lake and the volcano. I love its romantic scenery and will never tire of it. It makes me feel so relaxed, and it truly heals the soul.

People's Park in the Sky offers the best view of Taal Lake. The cool, windy atmosphere at Tagaytay's highest point, coupled with the naturally stunning backdrop, is truly a sight to behold. Tagaytay Highlands and the Crosswinds offer a Swiss-like landscape with beautiful mountains and greenery, adding to the area's allure. 

I can't help but yearn to be there. The enchanting beauty of Tagaytay is truly irresistible!

The picnic grove is a fun-filled moment with a closer view of Taal Lake. The place has changed a lot since our last family visit in 2016. More changes are in place, hoping that they will not lead to overdevelopment but a balance of nature and city life.

A year after the lockdown, more people visit places of interest, and they deserve a great place to unwind and rejuvenate. Tagaytay is beautiful, and Taal Lake is naturally wonderful and perfect for a weekend family getaway.

The Highlands of Tagaytay are a home away from home. It's a livable city away from Manila and will always remain beautiful.

It is enjoyable and romantic when you share happiness with your family and special someone. It's great to make lasting memories, and we'll always create meaningful moments to cherish and reminisce.

©️ 2021 Del Cusay

Sunday, January 31, 2021

Wellness and Balanced Life Strategies at the MDP Village


Fitness and wellness. That's our goal to achieve year after year at the start of the new year. 

Fitness goals must be part of our health journey. Being healthy and free from diseases and illnesses makes us truly alive. It makes us jump high to reach a new level of success as we start our year right.

The higher the jump, the lighter, the better.

Yes, the past years may have been out of control when our unconscious dietary lifestyle hit us badly, eating junk foods of no nutritional value, making us ill and killing us.

Then, work and stress eating or overeating may have led to being out of shape. Our physique changes as we add years to life when metabolism hits low. 

Yes, the past years may have been out of control when our unconscious dietary lifestyle hit us badly, eating junk foods of no nutritional value, making us ill and killing us. But remember, we can regain control.

Over the years, it's been a challenge to be in shape. Being fit takes a lot of discipline and commitment. It's always challenging but doable and possible. I used to make it with minimal discomfort but had achieved the desired goal.

I can, and I will!

This year, 2021, is about returning to what we used to be: fit and healthy, well and not ill, feeling better and not bitter, seeing things brightly and not ugly.

Getting sick is expensive and deadly. I can't afford it, so I choose to be well and avoid getting ill. It's a choice we all have, and I choose wellness. 

Through the years, we have listened to various health teachings. From fitness and wellness gurus, medical experts, health trainers, and healers. Learning from these experts has been invaluable in our health journey.

There's a great Master who has greatly influenced my belief about achieving balanced health and the esoteric causes of diseases, now revealed to humanity.

Since 2011, I have learned balanced life strategies focusing on health and wellness from Master Del Pe, a master of life.

I'm grateful to have known and been mentored by a modern Sage and an international life coach who's visionary in leadership and has a deep love for humanity and the world.

After decades of world travel and working with individuals, families, governments, groups, and companies in more than 100 countries, the Philippines is truly blessed to have Master Del Pe return and settle in his hometown.

Master Del Pe's new Shangri-La is beautiful in the highlands of Cervantes, Ilocos Sur, in the Northern Philippines. 

His MDP Village, a wellness and healing center hub in the North, offers a range of services and programs designed to promote health and wellness and is gaining recognition among health enthusiasts from the Philippines and other parts of the world.

Master Del Pe hosted an international convention at the MDP village where attendees got a perspective on higher consciousness and mastering life ahead of time.

MDP village is also a spiritual sanctuary, an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, and in regaining life to have peace of mind daily.

I've attended and listened to Master Del Pe's interviews on various social media platforms, such as Facebook and YouTube; his insights and expertise are mindblowing. 

If you want to visit him at the MDP Village or meet him in Metro Manila, follow and contact him on his social media accounts below.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/masterdelpe/

YouTube: https://youtube.com/user/MasterDelPe

Website: https://www.mdpvillage.com/

I've learned a lot from Master Del Pe. He's a master in life who can help us live the best life we deserve. 

©️ 2021 Del Cusay 

Sunday, January 17, 2021

Reaching for Cloud 9 in Antipolo


Antipolo
, home to the captivating Cloud Nine, offers a unique 360-degree view that is a true paradise within the urban landscape. It's a sight that's sure to leave you in awe. As I waited for the sunset, I was so thankful to see the panoramic view of Antipolo City and the magnificent skyline of Metro Manila.

The City of Antipolo, Province of Rizal, is blessed for its higher elevation and proximity to the Philippine National Capital Region, Metro Manila. You'll feel its cool and windy climate in less than an hour's drive. The best times to visit are during the dry season, from November to April, when the weather is cooler and the skies are more transparent.


Antipolo, with its serene city vibe, clean, peaceful streets, and the warm welcome of its residents, is a beloved weekend escape. It's a place where you can truly unwind and relax, away from the hustle and bustle of Metro Manila.

The Cloud 9 Hotel and Restaurant, located at the highest point of Antipolo, is my favorite spot in the city. I had a sumptuous lunch after a short day trip around the city. The wide-open restaurant in the sky serves delicious Filipino dishes and is a favorite destination among food lovers, including returning Filipinos on vacation. The restaurant's unique feature is its panoramic view of the city, which always leaves a lasting impression.

The best 360-degree view is on the hanging bridge and reaching the tower on the other side. It's a great view with a romantic appeal to families, lovers, and friends. 

Antipolo's charm isn't limited to romantic couples. It's a magnet for families, friends, and solo travelers, all drawn to its breathtaking scenery. And when dusk falls, the sky is painted in mesmerizing purple hues, adding an extra touch of romance to the experience.

Cloud 9, reminiscent of 'The Peak' in Hong Kong, is a place I've come to love and cherish. It's a Filipino pride that I thoroughly enjoyed and can't wait to revisit.

Life is good and bestowed with Divine grace. As we reached the peak, we paused, closed our eyes, held on to our breathing, and breathed out. We saw the magic happening on cloud nine when we opened our eyes.

©️ 2021 Del Cusay

Sunday, January 10, 2021

Invigorating Walk at the Lodi Garden


I
t's a great feeling when ancient architectural wonders are well-preserved and restored. Those structures were built to last and tell a tale as old as time.

My visit to a 15th-century tomb in New Delhi, India, was a unique experience. This architectural marvel, a blend of Hindu and Islamic styles, stood as a testament to the rich cultural history of the region. It was a decade ago, during my first trip to India in 2011, that I had the pleasure of exploring this historical gem.

The ancient tombs of India, with their grandeur and the evident love put into their construction, speak volumes about the character, status, and power of the individuals they were built for. They are not just structures, but living testaments to a bygone era. 

Lodi Garden is named after Sikander Lodi. He was an Afghan Sultan of Delhi Sultanate from the Sayyid dynasty who ruled places in Northern India, like Punjab and modern-day Pakistan. Together with three other rulers, their remains are in the tomb of this beautiful garden.

I have a deep admiration for Hindu and Islamic architecture, which exudes charm and character. The artistic expressions in the detailed carvings and designs are truly remarkable and worthy of appreciation.

As I strolled through the garden, the well-preserved structures whispered their stories. Touching these ancient surfaces was like reaching back in time, a soulful experience that left a lasting impression on me.

Lodi Garden, with its serene atmosphere, is perfect for a morning walk and exercise. It's a peaceful place to unwind, sit on the grass, and practice yoga and meditation. The calm and clean surroundings, along with the beautiful landscape and greenery, create a truly relaxing and revitalizing experience.

In our modern-day world, with advancements in architecture and technology, people will appreciate and value history and culture. It's valuable and priceless. It deserves recognition and respect. And so I did.

I had meaningful moments at the Lodi Garden. The history and culture fascinate me. I appreciate a place of such high historical value. It leaves a lasting memory and a pleasant reminiscence.

©️ 2021 Del Cusay

Sunday, December 20, 2020

Stairway to the Ruins in Macau

The former British colony Hong Kong was a wonderful surprise for my parents as we explored the vibrant cosmopolitan East. At the end of the four-day trip, we had one last stop: a day visit and tour in a neighboring Special administrative region, Macau.

It was just an hour and a half ferry ride from Hong Kong, and there was a welcoming message: Bienvenido or welcome in Portuguese. Macau is a former Portuguese colony, and its preserved buildings and other structures are reminiscent of European heritage.

I always love cultural and heritage preservation, and Macau is home to a famous World Heritage site, the Ruins of St. Paul.

In the early morning, before heading to the airport for our flight back to the Philippines, we had a walking tour from our hotel to the Ruins. It was the proximity of about 15 15-minute walk until we reached Senado Square. Just a few steps away from the Ruins.

That was in September 2016. It was a surprise made possible to celebrate my mother's 64th birthday. That was our first family travel abroad, so it was truly memorable.


They built the St. Paul Cathedral in the 17th century. In the 19th century, it was destroyed by fire, leaving the faรงade as Ruins.

But even in its ruins, it's still beautiful and a work of art, just like the great churches of European craftsmanship. People of different creeds come to visit, and it attracts both local and international tourists eager to see and learn the history behind the ruins.


The Ruins of St. Paul in Macau had just preserved a piece of the structure. With the heritage preservation effort, they decided not to demolish it for the world to see. And to appreciate the once-largest Cathedral in Asia.


Macau may have been transforming into a bustling metropolitan, with beautiful lights from its mega and ultra-modern structures, but it remembered its history and culture.

Macau felt like a cultural city where its people lived simply amidst modernity. It may transform into a much more progressive metropolis in the future, but it will have a unique identity blending East and West cultural influences.



We may have yet to explore much about other tourist sites in Macau, but we've seen one of the image structures of our faith. 

The stairway to the Ruins of St. Paul will always be a memorable travel experience. It leaves an imprint in our hearts, making the whole experience worth remembering.

©️ 2020 Del Cusay