When in the Philippines GOTO Buguey: Crab Capital of Northern Luzon

🦀Nestled along the Babuyan Channel and brackish waterways of Cagayan Valley, Buguey has officially earned the title of “Crab Capital of Northern Luzon”, a designation conferred by the Department of Agriculture in August 2024. 

In 2023 alone, Buguey produced an impressive 45.78 metric tons of mud crab, composing over 40% of the region’s output, which itself made up 70.5% of the northern Philippines’ total harvest.  This thriving industry supports not only crab harvesters but also related sectors, including feed suppliers, cold storage, transportation, hatchery operators, and seafood processing facilities.

🎉 Festivals & Community Spirit

Buguey's love for crabs extends to festivals:

• Crab Festival (October): The highlight is the communal Crabtastic Lunch, where locals serve up a staggering one metric ton of cooked crabs in a single meal. 

• Complemented by Malaga (rabbitfish) and Guraman (seaweed) festivals, celebrating the town's broader aquatic bounty. 

• More recently, the Baybay Festival premiered in early 2025, spotlighting bulung‑unas (beltfish) and pandan sustainable crafts, cementing Buguey's status as a festival capital of Cagayan Province. 

These events aren’t just for fun; they’re strategic showcases to rally government support, attract investments, and strengthen coastal tourism. 

🌊 A Global Stage: Hong Kong Food Expo Pro 2024

Buguey's seafood scene made waves at the Hong Kong Food Expo Pro, held August 14–17, 2024, as part of the Philippine pavilion organized by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI). 

Mayor Licerio Millare Antiporda III proudly displayed Buguey’s mangrove crabs (alimangong putik) and malaga rabbitfish, calling it a key marketing milestone to attract international buyers and investors. 

The participation already yielded fruit: at least one Hong Kong–based company expressed strong interest in importing Buguey crabs, showcasing confidence in the exceptional quality of the product. 

🧱 Infrastructure Power-Ups: Hatchery & Cold Storage

Key infrastructure developments underpin Buguey’s clamber toward sustainable seafood leadership:

• A state-of-the-art mangrove crab hatchery, funded collaboratively by DOST‑PCAARRD, Cagayan State University, BFAR, and the LGU, can produce around 480,000 crablets annually.

• A P9M Shared Service Cold Storage Facility, financed partly by DTI and LPGMA, helps reduce post-harvest losses and preserves seafood quality year-round. 

These initiatives reaffirm Buguey as a hub of innovation, investing in the future of crab production, with sustainability and scalability in mind.

🦀 Why Buguey’s Crabs Stand Out

• Sustainable Aquaculture: The town embraces ethical crab catching and nurturing via hatcheries and regulated fisheries. 

• Rich Ecology: With some 1,091 ha of fishponds, 422 ha of brackish water, and 141 ha of mangroves, Buguey’s environment fosters healthy crab populations and biodiversity. 

• Community Engagement: Every festival and harvesting season involves communal participation, especially the iconic Crab Festival dance and Crabtastic Lunch tradition. 

🎊 From Local Legend to Global Table

Who could resist a headline like: “Crabtivating Crabs of Buguey: From Festival Feasts to Hong Kong Treats!” Each bite of Buguey’s mangrove crab—a burst of succulent meat, rich aligue, and coastal flavor—is a testament to tradition, ecology, and ambition.

So here’s to Buguey: a fishery town with big dreams, bigger festivals, and even bigger crabs—now making their mark on the world seafood stage!

When in Hong Kong GOTO the Peak Tram Terminus

When in Hong Kong, there's one ride you absolutely cannot miss, the legendary Peak Tram. More than just transportation, the Peak Tram is a 135-year-old funicular that whisks you up to the Victoria Peak, offering jaw-dropping views, steep thrills, and a ride through history. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a local rediscovering the city, this scenic railway is pure Hong Kong magic.

🚋 What Is the Peak Tram?

The Peak Tram is one of the world’s oldest and most famous funicular railways, first opening in 1888. It connects Garden Road in Central to The Peak, climbing at an impossible-looking gradient of up to 48%. As you ascend, the skyscrapers seem to lean backward, creating a fun optical illusion that baffles even regular riders.

You’ll be treated to sweeping views of Victoria Harbour, Hong Kong Island’s skyline, and lush greenery. The final destinations is The Peak Tower, a futuristic building with the Sky Terrace 428,  the highest observation deck in Hong Kong.

 

🎢 Why It’s Fun (Besides the View!)

1. Gravity-defying ride – It’s like being in a slow-moving rollercoaster, with the city tilting in the background.

2. History on wheels – Hop aboard a 6th generation tramcar, redesigned in 2022 with sleek interiors and giant windows.

3. Instagram-worthy – From tram selfies to panoramic skyline shots, every moment is snapshot gold.

4. Part of a day-long adventure – The ride is just the start. At The Peak, you can explore walking trails, dine with a view, or visit Madame Tussauds.

 

🗺️ How to Get to the Peak Tram Lower Terminus

The Peak Tram Lower Terminus is located at 33 Garden Road, right in the heart of Central, and getting there is super easy:

 

🏙️ From MTR (Hong Kong’s subway system):

1. Take the MTR to Central Station (Exit J2).

2. Walk through Chater Garden and up Garden Road.

3. You’ll pass St. John’s Cathedral - a nice photo stop!

4. The walk is about 10–15 minutes uphill.

 

🚌 By Bus:

Bus No. 15C from the Central Pier (near the Star Ferry Terminal) goes directly to the Peak Tram station. Bonus: it's a classic open-top bus!

 

🚕 By Taxi or Ride-Hailing:

Just tell the driver “Peak Tram Garden Road” — they all know it. Or type “Peak Tram Lower Terminus” into your app.

 

💳 Tickets and Tips

Peak Tram + Sky Terrace 428 combo ticket is highly recommended. Buy online to skip the queue. Avoid long waits by going early morning or after 7 PM. Check their website for special packages, especially if you’re traveling with kids or in a group.

 

🏞️ What to Do at the Top

Sky Terrace 428: A must-do! The panoramic view of Hong Kong is spectacular.

Peak Circle Walk: A relaxing 45-minute loop trail around The Peak.

Madame Tussauds Hong Kong: Take selfies with Bruce Lee, BTS, or Queen Elizabeth II.

Dining: Try The Peak Lookout for colonial vibes or grab bubble tea with a skyline view.

 

Final Thoughts. The Peak Tram is more than a mode of transport, it's a Hong Kong rite of passage. Whether you're there for the thrill, the history, or the skyline views, this red funicular ride delivers all that and more. So hop on, hang tight, and get ready for one of the steepest, most scenic rides of your life!

 

Pro Tip: Don't forget your camera and Octopus Card (or contactless payment). And if you're lucky, you might even spot a rainbow over the harbor from the top. 🌈 🚋🇭🇰

Top 10 Things to Do in Hong Kong (2025 Edition)

1. 🌇 Ride the Peak Tram to Victoria Peak. Take the Peak Tram to the highest point on Hong Kong
Island. Visit Sky Terrace 428 for stunning panoramic views of the city skyline and Victoria Harbour

2. 🎢 Have Fun at Hong Kong Disneyland. A must-visit for families and Disney fans.  Unique attractions include Mystic Manor and Iron Man Experience. Now features World of Frozen, the first Frozen-themed land in the world (opened late 2023).

3. 🏞️ Explore Ngong Ping and Tian Tan Buddha. Ride the scenic Ngong Ping 360 cable car on Lantau Island. See the iconic Big Buddha and Po Lin Monastery. Enjoy peaceful trails and local vegetarian meals.

4. 🏖️Relax at Repulse Bay or Shek O Beach. Escape the city to sunbathe or swim. Repulse Bay offers chill vibes and beachfront cafes. Shek O is great for surfers and hikers (near Dragon’s Back).

5. 🚠 Hike the Dragon’s Back Trail. One of Asia’s top urban hikes. Easy-to-moderate level with ocean and mountain views. Ends near the beach - perfect for a swim after the trek.

6. 🌃 Watch the Symphony of Lights. A nightly light and music show at 8 PM. Best viewed from the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade or a Star Ferry ride.

7. 🏛️ Visit the M+ Museum and West Kowloon Cultural District. M+ is Asia’s leading contemporary art museum. Stroll the Art Park and enjoy waterfront views and public art.

8. 🍜 Eat Your Way Through the City. Try dim sum at Tim Ho Wan or Maxim’s Palace. Local must-eats: egg tarts, pineapple buns, wonton noodles, roast goose, fish balls. Explore Mong Kok, Temple Street Night Market, and Central for food stalls and hidden gems.

9. 🛕 Visit Man Mo Temple. A 19th-century Taoist temple in Sheung Wan. Famous for its hanging incense coils and photogenic interiors.

10. 🛍️ Shop in Mong Kok and Causeway Bay. Mong Kok: Sneakers, gadgets, cheap finds, and night markets. Causeway Bay: Big-name brands and mega malls like Times Square and Hysan Place.

✅ Bonus: Take the Star Ferry. A scenic and budget-friendly way to cross Victoria Harbour. Offers unbeatable views of Hong Kong’s skyline — day or night.

 

🆓 Top 10 FREE Things to Do in Hong Kong

1. 🌇 Watch the Symphony of Lights. Every night at 8:00 PM, Hong Kong’s skyline comes alive with lights, lasers, and music. Best viewed from the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade or Golden Bauhinia Square in Wan Chai.

2. 🛳 Ride the Star Ferry (if using a tourist pass). The ride costs less than HK\$3, but on certain tourist passes or promotions, it’s free. Great views of Victoria Harbour between Central and Tsim Sha Tsui.

3. 🌄 Hike the Dragon’s Back Trail. One of the best free outdoor activities in Hong Kong. Offers stunning views of the coastline, Shek O Beach, and lush green hills.

4. 🛕 Visit Man Mo Temple. A historic temple in Sheung Wan is filled with incense and traditional Chinese architecture. Free to enter and photograph (respectfully).

5. 🖼️ Explore the West Kowloon Art Park & M+ Museum Public Spaces. Walk around West Kowloon Cultural District, enjoy harbor views, and visit open-air installations. M+ Museum’s rooftop and some ground floor exhibitions are often free to access.

6. 🧘 Stroll Through Nan Lian Garden. A beautifully landscaped classical Chinese garden in Diamond Hill, Kowloon. Peaceful, photogenic, and completely free.

7. 🕌 Visit Chi Lin Nunnery. Located next to Nan Lian Garden. A spiritual, serene space with lotus ponds, wooden halls, and Buddhist architecture.

8. 🏙️ Wander Through PMQ in Central. Former police quarters transformed into a creative hub. Free to explore art spaces, exhibitions, and local design shops.

9. 🎨 See Street Art in Central & Sham Shui Po. Take a DIY street art tour through neighborhoods like SoHo, Sheung Wan, and Sham Shui Po. Great photo ops with murals, graffiti, and local creativity.

10. 📷Take in the View from Sky100 (Public Area at ICC). While the official observation deck charges admission, you can get free views from the public lobby levels at the International Commerce Centre (ICC) or IFC Mall.

✅ Bonus Free Tips. Window-shop in Mong Kok Night Market.  Visit Tai Kwun, a revitalized heritage police station transformed into an art and culture hub. Attend free events and festivals, especially around Lunar New Year or the Mid-Autumn Festival. 

When in Singapore GOTO free attractions and experiences

Singapore offers plenty of free attractions and experiences that showcase its rich culture, nature, and skyline. Here's a curated list: 

🌿Nature & Outdoors

1. Gardens by the Bay (Free Areas). Stroll through the Outdoor Gardens, including Supertree Grove, Heritage Gardens, and Dragonfly Lake. Supertree light show (Garden Rhapsody) is free nightly at 7:45 PM & 8:45 PM.

2. Marina Bay Waterfront Promenade. Enjoy skyline views and night walks with breeze, art installations, and light displays.

3. Singapore Botanic Gardens. (UNESCO World Heritage Site). Beautiful, historical garden with walking trails, lakes, and lawns. Open daily, entry is free.

4. East Coast Park. Free beach, cycling paths, barbecue pits, and a relaxed seaside vibe.

5. Southern Ridges & Henderson Waves. Scenic 10 km walking trail through forests, bridges, and parks.

6. MacRitchie Reservoir & TreeTop Walk. Free rainforest trails and a suspension bridge for nature lovers.

🏙️ Iconic Attractions & Views

7. Merlion Park. Snap photos with Singapore’s half-lion, half-fish national icon with Marina Bay Sands in the background.

8. Jewel Changi Airport (Free Zones). See the HSBC Rain Vortex, the world’s tallest indoor waterfall.    Stroll the Shiseido Forest Valley- no entry ticket needed.

9. Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay. Watch free performances at the Concourse or Outdoor Theatre (check schedule).

🧘Culture & Heritage

10. Sri Mariamman Temple / Buddha Tooth Relic Temple (Chinatown). Free to enter and explore these intricate religious landmarks 

11. Sultan Mosque & Haji Lane (Kampong Glam). Admire the mosque’s golden dome, then explore the colorful murals and hip indie shops nearby. 

12. Little India. Visit Tekka Centre, vibrant temples like Sri Veeramakaliamman, and street art.

13. National Library of Singapore. Great for architecture, exhibitions, and free rooftop views of the city.

🎨 Art & Events

14. Singapore Art Museum (Free Areas) & Public Art Trail. View outdoor installations and sculptures around the Civic District.

15. Light & Water Show at Marina Bay Sands (Spectra). Free daily show at 8 PM & 9 PM (and 10 PM on weekends).

When in Singapore GOTO Hawker Centers

🍲Singapore Hawker Centres: A Cultural & Culinary Icon. 

Hawker centres are open-air food courts in Singapore where you can enjoy delicious, affordable, and diverse local food. They are an essential part of everyday life and reflect Singapore’s multicultural identity-serving Chinese, Malay, Indian, and Peranakan dishes all under one roof.

🌟Why Visit Hawker Centres?

1. Authentic Local Food. Try must-haves like Hainanese chicken rice, laksa, char kway teow, roti prata, and satay.

2. Affordable Prices. Meals typically cost SGD \$3–\$6, making it perfect for budget travelers.

3. UNESCO Recognition. Hawker culture in Singapore is listed as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.

4. Community Experience. Locals and tourists eat side-by-side at communal tables.

Maxwell Food Centre is a must-visit destination in Singapore for food enthusiasts seeking an authentic taste of the city's diverse culinary heritage. Located in the heart of Chinatown, this bustling hawker centre offers a wide array of local dishes that reflect Singapore's multicultural roots.

🍽️ Why Visit Maxwell Food Centre

1. Iconic Local Dishes: Maxwell Food Centre is renowned for its variety of traditional Singaporean fare. Notably, it houses the famous Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice, which has received international acclaim and a Bib Gourmand recognition from the Michelin Guide. 

2. Diverse Culinary Offerings: With over 100 stalls, visitors can indulge in a plethora of dishes ranging from Chinese, Malay, to Indian cuisines, all under one roof.

3. Cultural Experience: Beyond the food, the centre offers a glimpse into Singapore's hawker culture, recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage. The communal dining setting fosters a unique social atmosphere where locals and tourists alike converge .

 4. Affordable Dining: Despite its popularity, the food remains reasonably priced, making it an excellent spot for budget-conscious travelers to enjoy high-quality meals.

🍜 Laksa in Singapore: A Must-Try Dish. Laksa is one of Singapore’s most beloved local dishes—a spicy, flavorful noodle soup that reflects the country’s Peranakan (Straits Chinese) heritage. It’s a unique blend of Chinese and Malay culinary influences.

🗺️ How to Get There. Address: 1 Kadayanallur Street, Singapore 069184

By MRT (Subway):

Maxwell MRT Station (TE18): Located just a short walk from the food centre .

Chinatown MRT Station (NE4/DT19): Approximately a 2-minute walk to Maxwell Food Centre .

Tanjong Pagar MRT Station (EW15): About a 5-10 minute walk to the centre .

By Bus:

Bus services 80 and 145 stop near Maxwell Road Food Centre .

Nearby Attractions:

Buddha Tooth Relic Temple: Situated directly across the street, it's a significant cultural site worth visiting .

Maxwell Food Centre operates daily, typically from 8:00 AM to 2:00 AM . Whether you're a food lover or a cultural enthusiast, this hawker centre offers an immersive experience into Singapore's rich culinary landscape.

Get your Tickets to Universal Studios-Singapore

When in Singapore GOTO The Esplanade

 🎭 Why Go to the Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay, Singapore. The Esplanade is Singapore’s premier arts and performance center, located right by Marina Bay. It's affectionately nicknamed “The Durian” due to its spiky exterior resembling the famous local fruit.

🌟Top Reasons to Visit:

1. World-Class Arts & Culture. (1) Hosts concerts, plays, ballets, art exhibitions, and film screenings. Features both international acts and local talents; 

(2) Free Performances. Regular free outdoor and indoor performances at the Esplanade Concourse and Outdoor Theatre; 

(3) Iconic Architecture. A must-see for architecture lovers—its twin domes look like durians and make for great photo ops; 

(4) Scenic Views. Fantastic views of Marina Bay Sands, the Singapore River, and the Merlion. Perfect spot for a relaxing evening stroll; and 

(5) Dining & Shopping. Restaurants with bayfront dining (e.g., Supply & Demand, Alter Ego). Boutique shops and a library dedicated to the arts.

🚇 How to Get to the Esplanade

By MRT (Subway):

Esplanade MRT Station (CC3 – Circle Line). Take Exit D, follow signs toward the Esplanade Mall. A short 5-minute walk to the main building.

Alternatively: City Hall MRT Station (NS25/EW13 – North-South/East-West Lines). Take Exit D, walk through CityLink Mall toward the Esplanade (\~10-minute walk).

🚌 By Bus:

Bus Stop: Esplanade Drive or Raffles Avenue (near the Esplanade). Bus Numbers: 36, 56, 75, 77, 97, 111, 133, 162, 195, 502, 518

🚶Walking From Nearby Attractions:

Merlion Park: \~5–10 minutes

Marina Bay Sands: \~15–20 minutes via Helix Bridge

Raffles City / City Hall: \~10 minutes

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When in Singapore GOTO Merlion Park

 🦁 Why Go to Merlion Park. Merlion Park is one of the most iconic tourist spots in  Singapore. Here's why it's worth a visit:

🌟Reasons to Go:

1. See Singapore’s Symbol. The Merlion (half lion, half fish) is a national symbol representing Singapore's origins as a fishing village ("mer") and its original name “Singapura” (Lion City). The statue stands 8.6 meters tall and spouts water from its mouth-great for photos!

2. Great Photo Spot. Get a classic shot with the Merlion and the Marina Bay Sands in the background. Stunning views of the waterfront, especially around sunset and at night.

3. Free Attraction. Open 24/7 and completely free to visit—no tickets required.

4. Central Location. Located in the heart of the city, it’s close to other major attractions like Marina Bay Sands, Esplanade, and the Fullerton Hotel.

5. Relaxing Waterfront Walk. Enjoy a scenic stroll along the promenade with city skyline views and sea breeze.

📸What to Do at Merlion Park:

(1) Take Iconic Photos. Pose “drinking” or “catching” the water from the Merlion’s mouth—a fun tradition.  Capture shots with Marina Bay Sands, the Singapore Flyer, or the Esplanade; (2) Watch the Light Show. Stay for the Spectra Light and Water Show across the bay (held nightly at Marina Bay Sands);

(3) Explore Nearby Attractions.  Walk to: (a) Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay for arts and performances; (b) Jubilee Bridge for more skyline views; (c) Fullerton Hotel for colonial architecture and history;

(4) Enjoy a Snack or Coffee. Chill at nearby cafés or grab street food from nearby areas like Raffles Place.

To reach Merlion Park in Singapore, you have several convenient public transportation options:

🚇 By MRT (Subway)

Nearest Station: Raffles Place MRT Station (EW14/NS26)

Walking Directions:

  1. Exit the station via Exit H (Chartered Bank Building).

  2. Walk towards the Fullerton Hotel.

  3. Cross Fullerton Road to reach Merlion Park. The walk takes approximately 5 minutes.

🚌 By Bus

Nearest Bus Stop: Fullerton Rd - Fullerton Sq (03011)

Bus Services: 100, 130, 196, 36, 57, 70M, 851, 851E

Walking Directions: (1) Alight at Fullerton Sq bus stop: (2) Walk towards the Fullerton Hotel; (3) Cross Fullerton Road to reach Merlion Park. The walk takes approximately 2 minutes.

🚶 By Foot

If you're nearby, you can enjoy a scenic walk to Merlion Park:

From Marina Bay Sands: Walk along the Marina Bay Waterfront Promenade.  The walk takes approximately 18 minutes.

 🚖 By Taxi or Ride-Hailing Services

* Simply input "Merlion Park" as your destination.

* The drop-off point is near the Fullerton Hotel.

* From there, it's a short walk to the park.

Merlion Park is open 24/7 and is free to visit. It's especially picturesque during sunrise and sunset. Don't forget to bring your camera for some iconic shots!

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