Every weekday morning, Filipino broadcast journalist Rico Hizon copresents BBC World News’ general news program Newsday and anchors its Asia Business Report.
With his image and voice broadcast to over 300 million households worldwide, Rico says he “raises the Filipino flag” every day he goes to work. And he does so with pride and purpose.

What made you decide to become a journalist?

When I was young, my mother used to love watching the news and she would always discuss it with me. That got me interested—by third grade I told her I wanted to be a reporter on TV. I started joining public speaking competitions in school and I kept winning so I continued.

You worked in the GMA newsroom for years before you got your first break. What role did this experience play in your success?

My first job was as a production assistant. I started at the very bottom but I knew that was a good start because I would experience everything and would know the whole system. I did whatever they asked me to do—from printing scripts and writing general news to buying food in the convenience store.

Why did you decide to specialize in business news?

At the time, nobody wanted to do business reporting—nobody cared about the stock market in the Philippines. So I said, “Let me specialize in this and develop it.” Even if my stories would not air in the early days, I still worked hard and kept trying.

Hizon with former US president Bill Clinton.

How did you make it in BBC News?

After seven years with CNBC Asia-Pacific, I got a call from the BBC’s Business News Editor. They told me they wanted me to anchor their daily business program Asia Business Report. They said they liked my conversational anchoring and incisive interview style. I got goose bumps being given this huge responsibility to report the news to 350 million viewers worldwide. Ten years on, I still feel honored and privileged to sit on the anchors chair and represent the Philippines.

What makes BBC News very credible and respectable?

BBC News is known for its impartiality, accuracy and fairness. We give a full and fair view of people and cultures, and we act independently of all interests and aspire to the highest ethical and editorial standards.

What do you think makes your reporting so successful? Do you feel you have a trademark style?

I’m always upbeat and excited. And whenever I write a story it’s very basic. If I talk about the trade surplus, I always discuss it for those who don’t understand financial news to movers and shakers.

Hizon receives the People of the Year Award from People Asia Magazine in January 2010.

How do you command the attention of your interviewee?  How do you build rapport with them?

I try to get to know them personally. I tell them, the interview is just like a conversation that we’re having at a coffee shop. At that point, I make them feel comfortable, and from there they open up about their ideas, thoughts, and insights on issues. Journalism is about telling stories and setting things right. During my three minutes of air time with them, I try to squeeze out every bit of information that will give me and my viewers a better perspective of issues.

What makes you most proud about the Philippines?

We have a great culture, great tourism spots, and very hospitable people. But there is something else that makes us special—it’s malasakit (concern). It’s about caring, and about family. We care for each other even if we are very far away from each other.

Many Filipinos look up to you as a role model. How does this influence your life?

I’m a very active leader with the Filipino community back in Singapore. It’s about helping them, giving back, and teaching them new skills. My mission is to be an inspiration to Filipinos so that they can aspire to be better people, and work hard. Although I feel that I have been doing my own little part to raise Filipino pride around the world for the last nine years, eventually, I want to go back to my country and help the Philippines.

When you think of the political and business leaders you have interviewed, from Indonesian president Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono to Bill Gates, what, if anything, do they have in common?

I can see that they are very sincere in what they do—in helping people, helping their countries progress—whether it be for their country or their company. And they are very humble and down to earth. I have learned the importance of keeping your feet on the ground as success can be a temporary thing and you have to handle it with care.

With former Singapore president S.R. Nathan.

What’s your typical working day like? e.g. Who chooses the clothes you wear? What’s your typical breakfast?

Wake up at 3:30 a.m., in the newsroom by 4:30 a.m. and finish my day at about 3 p.m. It is a full day as I anchor two global news programs. My wife Melannie gets to choose the suits, shirts, and ties I wear (Hope you like them!). Breakfast is either noodles with egg and luncheon meat or kaya toast with egg and iced Milo. These are typical Singaporean breakfasts.

What are your top three favorite places in the Philippines?

Manila, Boracay, and Pampanga. If I’m just in Manila, you can either find me in a shopping mall (I love to shop), a bookstore, or my favorite Filipino restaurant.

To see the world in a grain of sand is literally impossible, but to live in six of the world’s well-loved destinations in a 500-hectare of land is every traveler’s dream come true… and it’s real. It’s here. Now.

A mere 25-minute plane ride from Manila is Balesin Island, found off the coast of Mauban, Quezon, which faces the Pacific Ocean. It’s impossible not to feel like royalty upon alighting the resort’s new Cessna Caravan that effortlessly taxies down the 1,520-meter long world-class concrete airstrip. Once you get past the fragrant lei, the welcome drink, and a serenade, you will know first-hand the wonderful things that make for a luxurious summer hideaway. Pristine emerald waters… long stretches of fine, white sand… exclusive 5-star resort amenities. Check. Check. Check!

EASY RIDE: The horse-riding trail around the island is 8.6 km long, 650-700 meters of which are on the beach.

But the best part of it all? Why, it’s experiencing the world’s best destinations in a matter of minutes and you don’t even need a passport and visa at that. Thanks to the vision of the island’s resort developers—seasoned travelers all who know exactly how to travel in stylish luxury and comfort—the island showcases deluxe “villages” that exude ‘rich and famous’ (paparazzis not included): the Greek island of Mykonos; the chi-chi French Riviera’s St. Tropez; Sardinia’s affluent Costa Esmeralda; Indonesian favorite Bali; the exotic Thai destination of Phuket; and, of course, local pride Balesin. Given the developers’ classy taste, there’s no doubt they can pull this off and deliver what they promised.

According to Balesin project director Marco Diaz, the themed villages are not “mere copies” but are uniquely and “meticulously designed and constructed to resemble the selected destinations.” The best way to do this was for Balesin developer, Alphaland, to send its architects to the actual places to really get the feel of these destinations that are posh stomping grounds of the ultra-rich jet-set crowd. Thus, architects Meloy Casas and Jorge Yulo, for instance, had their immersion in St. Tropez, and Costa Esmeralda and Mykonos, respectively, all for the sake of authenticity.

Whether it’s the whitewashed structures of Mykonos atop a hill, the Mediterranean charm of St. Tropez or the wide-open spaces of Bali huts, resort members will get to fulfill their resort fantasies in this island. And hey, the food in these villas is authentic too.

The common denominator of these uniquely designed villas is its luxurious amenities. So, expect a 5-star feel to each village, Jacuzzis, indoor and outdoor opulent beds, plus modern comforts – WiFi access, direct to home TV (CIGNAL TV), and Smart 3G cell site.

LIVING IN STYLE: Balesin, located 35 kilometers off Mauban’s coast, has 7.6 kilometers of white-sand beaches. The members-only island resort has 240 hospitality and 12 clubhouse suites available for members.

Beyond the obvious, it’s the oft taken for granted details that make the Balesin island experience a memorable one. If you’re a pillow junkie, fret not for the pillows in these villas are snugly, softly divine. Sunset cocktails? The beachside bar is there at your service. In the mood for silent moments? Sit under the lone tree in front of the Balesin village restaurant and contemplate Balesin’s “sea of tranquility” to your heart’s content. Need to pacify the restless tot? Go horseback riding with the little one on the beach. Father and son bonding has never been such a blissful activity.

Apart from the villas’ spacious indoor shower areas, there are also al fresco shower rooms that offer utmost privacy. Massage treatments – either inside the room or outside on the day bed – are also available. Of course, Balesin has its own spa villa, as well as sports amenities exclusive for members.

The affluent, eco-conscious traveler will be glad to know that Balesin is an epitome of sustainability, what with water recycling capabilities, sewage treatment plants and probiotic fishponds, to name some. Cars are not allowed so you go from one village to the other via a golf cart. As part of their sustainability philosophy – the heart and soul of Balesin – Alphaland is only going to develop 10% of the island, and even that 10% will accommodate trees and lush landscapes.

The resort, says Alphaland SVP for corporate communications Michelle Ongpin, employs local villagers and has already sent three college scholars to date.

Whether you’re reflecting upon the beauty of Balesin Island Club’s 700-m long immaculately clean beachfront or relaxing in the villas’ outdoor Jacuzzi, it’s always a relief to know that living in the lap of luxury need not result in environmental carnage.

STUART HEAVER reports about the rising sightings of these gentle giants in Bohol.

An exciting new marine adventure now combines the allure of Bohol Sea’s pristine waters, so popular with scuba divers, with the chance to see the largest fish on the planet in its natural habitat—the whale shark.

Although huge—growing to lengths of 12 meters and weighing over 20 tons—the whale shark offers no threat to man. This enormous and graceful creature is a filter feeder: it uses its massive mouth to hoover up huge amounts of plankton from the sea. Often seen feeding near the surface, the whale shark is returning in increasing numbers to the Bohol Sea.

A young local lad shows off a string of jackfish he traditionally caught in the Island, a testimony to the abundant marine life and thriving fishing community.

Last year, a massive whale shark was seen feeding close to the shore at Alona Beach on Panglao Island. Families and honeymooners frolicking in the surf could clearly see the shark a mere 100 meters from where they were.

Béatrice Galonnier runs the Tropical Divers Dive Center (www.tropicaldiversalona.com) at Alona Beach and happened to be out in the bay training some novice divers when the shark’s magnificent dorsal fin was first seen gliding through the water between the anchored bancas.

“The atmosphere was fantastic,” says Bea. “Even the local fishermen just stopped their work and looked on in amazement.”

Then, after just a few minutes, the shark was gone.

“We were very lucky to swim with it and take some amazing pictures,” says Galonnier.

Galonnier had the idea of offering an underwater equivalent to the African wildlife safari—the Whale Shark Safari. Instead of spotting land animals like the lion and elephant, this safari would seek out vulnerable underwater species like the whale shark.

“It is such a beautiful and unique experience to dive with the whale shark,” she says. “I cannot fully describe it.”

The whale shark was once a hunted species until a complete ban was introduced in the Philippines in 1998. Now, apart from the occasional rogue poacher, the whale shark is only hunted by wildlife enthusiasts and ecotourists armed with nothing more than an expensive digital camera.

Prior to 1998, local fishermen would hunt for these gentle giants with traditional hand-held harpoons. The demand from Taiwan and elsewhere meant that whale-shark meat could command a high price. The hunting, however, was seriously depleting the whale shark population.

Pamilacan Island, less than 20 kilometers east of Alona Beach where Tropical Divers is based, is the center of this traditional whale shark hunting community. Pamilacan fishermen quickly had to adapt to survive as their traditional source of income was effectively cut off overnight. After some initial resistance, the hunters of the whale shark eventually became its stewards and guardians.

After banning whale shark hunting in 1998, the fishermen in Pamilacan Island have now found a new source of income in taking care of these gentle giants.

Led by pioneers such as Joselino “Jojo” Baritua, who set up Pamilacan Island Dolphin and Whale Watching Tours to provide an alternative income source for local fishermen and supported by organizations like the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), attitudes have changed.

“The transformation of the community of Pamilacan from whale hunters to whale lovers is awe-inspiring, absolutely mind-blowing, and little short of miraculous,” says Yeb Sano, the local project manager for WWF.

Now more than 3,000 visitors make their way to Pamilacan Island every year to see dolphins and whales in their natural habitat. The former hunters now have a new source of revenue.

And it is Pamilacan and nearby Balicasag Island that form two of the most popular stops on the Whale Shark Safari. Leaving Alona Beach in a traditional white banca, it takes less than an hour to reach Balicasag Island, a beautiful spot for the safari diver to get into the groove of underwater life.

Divers, descending in 5- to 20-meter-deep waters, are treated to the sight of immaculate coral walls with a kaleidoscope of stunning colors and giant fan corals waving gently in the tide. Marine life is so abundant here: a huge variety of fish, including lion fish and a huge shoal of swirling jack fish rotating above me, as well as several turtles and a tightly clustered shoal of menacing barracuda swimming downstream a few meters away.

Nondivers are also welcome to join the safaris. They can snorkel on the many reefs, have a swim, just soak up the sunshine and the scenery, or immerse themselves in a good book.

At Pamilacan Island, which is home to less than 250 families, it is possible to witness a traditional fishing community and meet some of the locals.

Of course, no one can guarantee that a wild animal will appear on cue, especially if you take the safari off-season. But even without the appearance of the iconic whale shark, the safari offers a unique opportunity to witness a teeming underwater habitat, dive in some of the best sites in the region, and understand the culture of the local fishing communities and their amazing transformation from hunting to conservation.

Calling all nature trippers, eco-adventurers, and culture connoisseurs. Bohol invites you to play. Hop a flight from Manila or a fast craft boat from Cebu to experience this oval-shaped island’s unique ecocultural tourism.

Spot hammerheads diving Balicasag Island’s submarine cliffs. Visit one of the Philippine’s oldest churches, Baclayon, built by 18th-century Jesuit priests. Observe, the tarsier, arguably the world’s smallest primate, to determine if they were indeed Steven Spielberg’s inspiration for E.T.  Swoop between mountains at Danao Adventure Park on the Philippines’ longest, tallest zipline where, as one enthusiast yelled, “The world is AWESOME!”

Retrace history within Baclayon Church’s moss-green walls. Upon closer inspection, details are revealed with antique chandeliers, checkered tiles, and stained glass windows. It took native workers about 10 years to build Baclayon Church from coral stone and millions of egg whites used as cement. Since Spanish times, Baclayon has been called Bohol’s pastry capital since the Spaniards taught locals to make pastries utilizing the abandoned egg yolks.

Bohol’s capital and main entry point, Tagbilaran City, is located along the island’s southwest corner. From here, mainland adventures can be supplemented with off-shore excursions. Bohol has 72 smaller islands and islets!

Staying on the Loboc River is a great way to experience Bohol’s rivers and mountains. I booked the new Loboc River Resort (www.lobocriverresort.com), a boutique establishment with rustic ambiance and walkways to stilted cottages. The open-air restaurant overlooks the river where a wooden deck leads to the water. Dip your feet in. Local staff happily provide fishing poles and beer.

The author pretending to paddle down the Loboc River.

During the day, I paddled around in a mini banca and went firefly watching at night. Okay, so maybe I didn’t do the paddling, but being captain demands complete focus. It was fun cruising the river waving to friendly fishermen and smiling at kids swinging from trees. Life can be this simple. Owner Zynn Varquez proudly shares, “We hope to boast the feel of Loboc’s locality. The sights and sounds of the flowing river, animals, and breeze through the palm trees makes us unique from Bohol’s beach resorts.” Stay tuned for performances by the award-winning Loboc Children’s Choir and completion of the infinity pool.

TIP: Book a River Villa for balconies overlooking the river. Outside the resort, floating restaurants offer picturesque cruises to Busay Waterfall.

FOODIE FIND: Try calamay, a local delicacy of coconut milk, brown sugar, and glutinous rice packaged in coconut shells.

Ready for more? About 55 kilometers from Tagbilaran lie the geological anomaly known as the Chocolate Hills. These giant karst mounds number around 1,776, with the largest reaching 120 meters high. They can be seen around Bohol, but the Chocolate Hills Complex in Carmen offers the most popular views. Seasonally, the hills change from green grass to cocoa-colored dirt. In drier times, they resemble a giant box of truffles. Forrest Gump would be impressed.

TIP: Between the towns of Loboc and Bilar, towards the Chocolate Hills Complex, a man-made mahogany forest creates a magnificent sight. When photographing a forest, find a point-of-interest, such as an intriguing tree, a ray of light, or a burst of color. This will give your photographs direction and attract your audience’s eye.

Ready for Bohol’s latest adrenaline-rush? Head to Danao Adventure Park where ecotourism is spelled EAT, a.k.a. Eco, Educational, Extreme Adventure Tourism. Expert guides and state-of-the-art equipment may not muffle your screams during heart-pounding activities like The Plunge, a canyon swing with a 45-meter free fall, but they will send you safely home. High-octane activities include root climbing, rapelling, and river trekking while laid-back options are river tubing and kayaking. Enjoy the breathtaking mountains and Wahig River.

Tip: Some activities (like caving and root climbing) require a certain number of people. Research times and excursions. Danao is located 72 kilometers from Tagbilaran; check www.eatdanao.com for transportation details. Basic onsite accommodation is available.

An interesting addition to a Bohol to-do list is the Cambuhat Village Ecotour where community-based tourism highlights cultural connections. Head 83 kilometers northwest of Tagbilaran to the town of Buena Vista where local guides paddle canoes down the mangrove-lined Daet River. At Cambuhat village, community members share traditions such as transforming buri palm into raffia, oyster farming, and weaving. Savor fresh slipper oysters while watching folk songs and dances.

NATURE LOVERS: Check out Mag-Aso Twin Waterfalls in Antequera whose mesmerizing waters resemble smoke. Also, explore one of Bohol’s 1,400 caves. First timers can try Hinagdanan Cave, whose stalactites and underground pool are easily accessible on Panglao Island.

For underwater aficionados, the waters surrounding Bohol are teeming with intriguing marine life. On Panglao Island, resorts and cerulean seas compliment top dive spots like Balicasag Island. Grab Happy Hour cocktails on Alona Beach where each beer may have you swearing, “I once saw a fish THIS BIG.” Diving enthusiast and Director of Perfect Dives (which promotes diving as a form of sustainable ocean development in the Philippines) Sean Stone shares, “Balicasag is a pristine dive area with excellent walls and beautiful fan coral. The black coral garden makes it stand out on the diving circuit. Turtles, sweetlips, and groupers abound so even if you don’t see schooling barracuda or jackfish, you will still enjoy diving here.” Mermaids are not included, but Pamilacan Island offers whales, dolphins, and manta rays. www.perfectdives.com

“Bohol is an ecocultural tourism destination and local communities want to be involved. Every town has a Tourism Officer to determine cultural mapping and living traditions.” -Josephine Cabarrus, Head of the Bohol Tourism Office

Tip: The Amarela Resort (www.amarelaresort.com) infuses remarkable décor with local ambiance. Visit owner Lucas “Doy” Nunag’s private art collection, which showcases traditional art and the works of contemporary Boholano artists.

Families and foodies can tour Bohol Bee Farm’s organic gardens to learn about sustainable agriculture. (www.boholbeefarm.com) The new extension at the cliff-side restaurant serves specialties flavored with homegrown ingredients, like Spicy Flower Salad, malunggay (moringa) ice cream, and Squash Bread with Pesto and Honey Spread. My favorite moment was sundown drinks (another basil iced tea, please!) on the oceanfront terrace where a sugar binge continued via spicy ginger ice cream. A hilot massage at the open-air spa left only one word: “Zzzzzzzz.”

Tip: Overnighters can book the new Kinabuhing Bohol Rooms where upgraded amenities make veranda sunsets extra sweet.

Bohol, you are one action-packed island! With so much to see and do, I am already making another list of adventures. Whether you are a return traveler or a first-time explorer, Bohol is waiting for you.

“When we go to Singapore, I think we should stay at a nicer place.” As I watched my six-footer boyfriend T.o. struggle to fit his legs in our tiny bathroom in Coron, Palawan, I had to stop myself from smiling, and agreed.

“Nicer” became an understatement. We went to Singapore last February to watch the Laneway Music Festival and were booked in Hotel Fort Canning and Fullerton Bay Hotel, both five-star heritage hotels.

The Laneway Music Festival, which showcased performances from 14 indie acts from around the world, was just a five minute walk from Hotel Fort Canning.

Hotel Fort Canning is like no other hotel in Singapore—it sits on a century-old Natural Heritage Park known as Fort Canning. Botanical gardens, picnic spots, and a World War II bunker now known as the Battle Box surround the hotel building. But before you cast it off as only for the history and culture buffs, the park is a favorite pick for events for the young crowd. WOMAD, Singapore’s largest music festival, has been held in the park since 1998.

Preserving the white conservation doors of its former military building, Hotel Fort Canning’s deluxe garden room patio shows how the hotel blends nature and heritage.

Indeed, as much as the park rocks, so does Hotel Fort Canning. A former British Military building, it won an Architectural Heritage Award for its successful revival. Imagine breakfast in their Glass House where floor-to-ceiling glass walls show off the park’s century-old trees. Then there’s the food. Try their version of local favorites like roti prata (flour pancakes with curry dip) and Hainanese chicken rice, which we found rivaled those served in Singapore’s popular hawker food centers. Over at their swimming pool, opt to leave your iPod so you can concentrate on the sound of birds and the rustle of trees in the background.

Back in my room, the views were pretty nice. Mine looked out to the garden and in the distance was the amazing Singapore skyline. My bathroom had the tropical elegance of earlier years (think Raffles Hotel style), as it bore the building’s original conservation doors. After a nice warm bath with amenities like THANN’s “Aromatic Wood” collection, I crashed on a soft bed—but it wasn’t as simple as that. Served with popcorn on the side, their “Blockbuster Stay-cation” package includes unlimited in-room movies. Would you believe they also have a pillow menu that offers five types of pillows to choose from? The only thing lacking was a butler to read me a bedtime story.

Ah, it’s a tough life, and I was off to another setting. This time, it was the Fullerton Bay Hotel, which sits right in front of Singapore’s Marina Bay. Here, they take full advantage of their location. What was once Clifford Pier in the 1930s, today the hotel’s arrival area seems suitable for those carrying Louis Vuitton trunks.

The Fullerton Bay’s lobby was something else. Upon arrival, you’ll feel like you’re about to board a luxury cruise ship. A dramatic crystal chandelier dangles from an 18-foot-high ceiling with vintage nautical maps serving as accents. The designer behind the lobby is none other than Andre Fu, hailed as an “Asian design sensation” by Condé Nast Traveler.

Fullerton Bay Hotel’s dramatic lobby. The lobby’s designer, Andre Fu also designed Hong Kong’s hotel, The Upper House and actress Michelle Yeoh’s residence.

When I entered my room, voila! In front of my balcony was the spaceship-like Marina Bay Sands, below was a girl tanning on a sun deck, and to the right were Singapore’s skyscrapers that house top companies like Google.

With no way to go but up, my next stop was the hotel’s rooftop bar, Lantern, which was rated by CNNGO.com as one of the world’s best hotel bars—and when I sunk into one of their couches in what felt like the center of the city, I understood why. I wasn’t sure if I should have arrived in a bikini or a chic, lounge-y dress. Their 25-meter pool allows you to swim by the edge of the rooftop with the bay and city lights as your background. It looked like the cover of a magazine. When you’re ready to get tipsy, sip mojitos with the rest of the after-work crowd at sundown. Travel + Leisure once described Lantern as the place to be seen.

Now, just enjoy like no one’s watching.

DANIEL ALLEN samples the treasures of Vietnam’s Pearl of the Orient.

At night, from the helipad of Ho Chi Minh City’s soaring Bitexco Financial Tower, the urban landscape is a shimmering sea of light. An incessant flow of traffic streams through the recently opened Saigon River Tunnel, only to reemerge in the Thu Thiem New Urban Area, soon to be populated with more shiny skyscrapers. While stories of Vietnam’s economic problems abound, there’s little evidence of stagnation in this vibrant, bustling metropolis.

“It might be a cliché, but Ho Chi Minh City truly never sleeps,” says expat Brit Craig Derbyshire, in town to oversee the imminent opening of a swanky five-story cocktail bar and eatery high up in the high-tech Bitexco edifice. “People here work hard and they play hard. Saigon residents certainly don’t need any lesson on how to let their hair down.”

Ho Chi Minh City, still commonly known by its former, colonial-era name of Saigon, is the southern epicenter of Vietnam and the country’s business capital. After the ravages of the Vietnam War, Saigon lay in the doldrums for years, but in the 1990s it gradually returned to life, and is now considered one of Southeast Asia’s most dynamic cities. Today, the one-time “Pearl of the Orient” has more than regained its luster.

Modern Saigon is a shopper’s paradise. Prices are higher than elsewhere in Vietnam, but the selection is far more sophisticated. The city’s cosmopolitan atmosphere makes it easier to shop, meaning that shop owners, especially in more upscale boutiques, aren’t immediately pressuring browsers for sales.

A stroll along central Saigon’s Dong Khoi Street takes visitors past colonial-era landmarks and dozens of interesting new boutiques. Plunge into the covered Ben Thanh Market, where vendors offer everything from fruit and fresh-cut flowers to traditional handicrafts to imported electronics and cosmetics. Or head for Cholon—the city’s ancient Chinatown—and dive into the thriving rabbit warren of narrow lanes, bustling markets, and flamboyantly colorful Chinese pagodas.

HAGGLING HUB: Located in downtown Ho Chi Minh, the Ben Thanh Market is a hotspot for local crafts, textiles, and souvenirs.

Dong Khoi is Saigon’s premier shopping street. The best blocks are the last two heading toward the river, but the whole area is overloaded with opportunities for retail therapy. With the city’s glut of Japanese tourists, Japanese-style zakka shops packed with jewelry, accessories, and shoes are rapidly multiplying here, and you’ll also find a range of fascinating little watch shops and old camera vendors.

Those seeking stylish clothing in Saigon are now finding that they get better value if they seek out local and regional designers whose increasingly impressive collections are starting to be shown overseas.

“A decade ago there was nothing here except small tailors and tourist stores,” says French-born Valerie Gregori McKenzie, who has lived in Saigon for over 15 years and owns the high-end label Song. “While these remain, you now have a lot of new designers that use Vietnamese craft as an inspiration, mixing Vietnamese heritage and Western influence.”

McKenzie founded her label, which offers ecofriendly clothes, homeware, and kitchenware, in 1997. Song products are sold in luxury resorts and in McKenzie’s shop on 76D Le Than Ton, District 1.

“If shoppers look further than Saigon’s tourist streets, they can often find fabulous things to bring back and actually use,” adds McKenzie. “Most creations by local designers are hand-made and this is something that you rarely find in other countries.”

There’s a saying in Vietnam that while Hanoi is the country’s head, Saigon is its belly. Anatomical associations aside, Saigon now offers gourmands and adventurous tourists a mind-boggling array of dining options, offering everything from streetside sweet-and-sour soup and soft-shelled crabs to the finest international cuisine. The only problem is finding enough meals to sample everything.

The area around Dong Khoi Street is home to many fine-dining choices, but ask local residents where to eat and likely as not they’ll point you in the direction of the al fresco stalls in the open market area adjacent to Ben Thanh Market, or to a small neighborhood storefront. This is where most of the locals hang out each night, quaffing bia hoi (draft beer) and snacking on tasty treats such as mien ga (vermicelli, chicken, and mushrooms in a delicate soup), lau hai san (a tangy seafood soup with mustard greens), and the ever-present, ever-delicious pho (noodle soup).

“Whenever I’m back in Saigon after a long trip, I always head to Ben Thanh Market early in the morning,” says thirtysomething business manager Hoang Cong Tuan. “There’s no better way to tap the pulse of Saigon, and the food stalls are a paradise. Vietnam’s best food really is in the street and on the sidewalks. You can rarely go wrong. If it looks good, smells good, and there are locals eating it, it’s generally worth trying.”

When you need a break from Saigon’s shops, restaurants, and manic traffic, a little personal pampering can help recharge your batteries. While the city has plenty of places that offer relaxation, one little-known yet highly rated retreat is the Thao Dien Village (www.thaodienvillage.com/spa.php). A short taxi ride from the city center, this spa and wellness resort is a hidden oasis perched beside the waters of the Saigon River. Offering an eclectic range of Western and Vietnamese treatments, a few hours here can put a spring back in the step of even the most jaded traveler.

Contemporary Saigon is all about color and movement. Vendors pushing carts piled high with conical hats; processions of ao dai-clad schoolgirls on bicycles; cranes spinning overhead as workers put the finishing touches to newly risen skyscrapers. With the city’s youthful exuberance and joie de vivre as infectious as ever, there’s never been a better time to really explore the Pearl of the Orient.

Kite-boarding

PROFESSIONAL MODEL? Not. Professional kiteboarder Susi Mai, named three times as Red Bull “Queen of the Air,” tests the winds in Boracay’s Bolabog beach.

Ever flown a kite? Try letting a kite fly you. Kite-boarding is an extreme watersport where you stand on a board and are propelled by a kite. The important element is wind—the stronger the wind, the faster you can fly. GETTING STARTED: Get lessons from Hangin Kite Center in Boracay (www.kiteboardingboracay.com), the first established kite school and center in the Philippines. Lessons cost Php2,750 for 2.5 hours. GEARING UP: Kite schools provide basic equipment like a board, harness, helmet, and control bar with lines. KEEP IN MIND: Don’t be intimidated by this sport—kite-boarding takes time and practice to get good at.

Paddleboard Yoga

Paddleboard yoga’s plus compared to other forms of yoga is the relaxation provided by being on the water.

Mats away. This workout is just like regular yoga, except you do it on a paddleboard. Exercise your core muscles as you do yoga poses while trying to keep your balance above water. Of course, you might fall off, but that’s the fun part. GETTING STARTED: In Vancouver, Canada, check out One Mile Stand Up (+1 778.855.5979; omstandup@gmail.com) for a session in a postcard-like lake. Rates start at $12/session. GEARING UP: Paddleboard rentals are usually inclusive with lessons. Wear something that you wouldn’t mind getting wet in. KEEP IN MIND: If you’re wearing sunglasses or a hat, these may fall off. Hydrate before paddling out to water to avoid carrying things on your board.

Underwater Hockey

Unlike running, underwater hockey offers an intense cardio workout without the high impact on joints.

Grab a stick and shoot a puck into a goal—seems easy enough? Now try that underwater, hold your breath, add some team strategy, and you’ve got the sport called underwater hockey. GETTING STARTED: In the Philippines, hockey veterans from the Underwater Bootcamp (UBC) provide free intro lessons (+63916.240.3404 & +63929.197.0166; www.facebook.com/underwaterhockeybootcamp). GEARING UP: Beginners only need basic snorkeling gear (mask, snorkel, and fins), which UBC is open to lending. To minimize drag underwater, swimmers are advised to wear a one-piece swimsuit (for girls) and trunks (for boys). KEEP IN MIND: Knowing how to swim isn’t a must, but being comfortable in water is. And whether you’re lightweight or heavyweight, these things cease to matter once you’re underwater. —With reports from Aldous de Leon

Synchronized Swimming

Synchronized swimming is a female dominated sport. Although in the Olympics and World Championships only females are allowed to compete, some national competitions include male participants.

Watch the pool dance in the Red Hot Chili Peppers’ Aeroplane music video—that’s synchronized swimming. Also known as “synchro,” this sport entails swimmers performing a dance routine to music and is practiced for both competition and entertainment. GETTING STARTED: In the Philippines, competitive synchro swimmers are headed by Synchro Philippines (www.synchrophilippines.wordpress.com). Lessons cost roughly Php500/session. For entertainment, experienced swimmers can audition for Splash Dance Aqua Shows (www.splashdanceaquashows.wordpress.com). Their members were cast as mermaids in ABS-CBN’s Mutya series. GEARING UP: Wear a swimsuit, goggles, swim cap, and nose clip for training. KEEP IN MIND: A background in dance, ballet, or gymnastics is a plus for synchro, but there are people who have learned the sport from ages 3 to 30.

Bar Dolci

Gelato addicts, this is your sweet spot. Bar Dolci offers over 30 choices of unique flavors like Thai Tea, Honey Praline, and Raspberry Black Tea. Don’t be afraid of the sun and sit out under their yummy orange parasols. Fort Bonifacio is a city that likes the outdoors. Here, you’ll commonly spot art installations, skaters, runners and people walking their dogs.

Bar Dolci is located at F133 Forbeswood Heights corner Burgos Circle, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City.

Other spots to eat, drink and shop around Fort Bonifacio: Bonifacio High Street, Fort Entertainment Center, and Bonifacio Stopover

On Danielle: Bottom - Versace Jeans Couture Printed Short Pants. Top and shoes – model’s own. On Yam: Bottom – Everis Red Pants. Top and shoes – model’s own. Clothes are from the Linea Italia Group. Prices available upon request.

Fully Booked

This bookstore is like the Barnes & Noble of the Philippines. Although it has more than 10 branches around the country, their flagship store at Fort Bonifacio is still the go-to place. Watch a movie in their basement theater, join one of their writing workshops or pick your summer read in their five story building. Reputable authors, illustrators and artists also come in for the store’s events.

Fully Booked is located at Fort Bonifacio, Global City, and has 15 other branches around the Philippines.

+ Reading reduces stress, increases your vocabulary, and improves your analytical thinking, memory, and writing skills. It also impacts one’s love life. In a research about frequent readers conducted by Prof. Louis Appleby of the University of Manchester, respondents claimed to have taken action in their relationships after reading an influential book.

New York Times Bestsellers available in Fully Booked:

The Tiger’s Wife by Tea Obreht

Steve Jobs by Walter Isaacson

Bossypants by Tina Fey

The Happiness Project by Gretchen Rubin

The Girl Who Kicked the Hornet’s Nest by Stieg Larsson

On Danielle: Everis Printed Top from the Linea Italia Group. Price available upon request. Shoes and hat – model’s own.

Skye

Right beside Fully Booked is the W Building, which houses Manila’s newest roof deck lounge. Feel as if you own the city when you lie back on its cozy couches while the sun sets in the background. If you just bought a book, we highly doubt you’ll be reading—Skye turns its club-like vibe on when the people pour in at night.

Skye is located at the Roof Deck, W Building, 11th corner 28th Sts., Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City.

Other hip hangouts in the area: Draft Gastropub, Privé, and Relik Tapas Bar and Lounge

On Danielle: Altra Moda St. Brown Dress. Shoes – model’s own. On Yam: Versace Jeans Couture Blue Dress. Shoes – model’s own. Clothes are from the Linea Italia Group. Prices available upon request.

M Cafe

M Café has been around for some time but you can’t ignore its popularity. Why have a drink in a boring old bar when you can toast in front of pocket gardens and nice, round lamps that light up at sundown? A Miele Guide-certified café, try their best-selling grilled roasted “tandoori” chicken before moving on to cocktails—smile, they don’t scrimp on the alcohol here. Right beside the café sits the swanky-looking Ayala Museum. Both are located in the Greenbelt Mall, which bagged the Gold Award for Design and Development from the International Council of Shopping Centers Asia Pacific in 2009.

M Café is located at G/F Greenbelt 4, Makati Ave. corner Dela Rosa St.

Other notable dining and drinking spots in the Greenbelt area: Café Havana, Izakaya, Ayala Triangle Gardens, and Salon de Ning at The Peninsula Manila

ON DANIELLE: Versace Jeans Couture Printed dress. Cris Tin black shoes. ON YAM: Sandro Ferrone Printed dress. Cris Tin maroon shoes. All clothes from the Linea Italia Group. Prices available upon request.

Pose the Right Way

Packed on some pounds before summer? Not to worry. Professional photographer Mark Dimalanta suggests these body-trimming photo tips:

• Prevent the subject from bending forward or folding into herself. Instead, have her extend and elongate.

• To visually lengthen her legs, shoot from a distance that flatters her body type.

THE GOLDEN HOUR. Good photo opportunities arise 30 minutes before or after sunrise or sunset. During this time, the water usually looks calmer and the sky produces captivating colors.

Capture Movement

• For awesome action shots, pan your camera along with the moving subject and use a slow shutter speed. The skaters in this image stayed sharp while the background blurred, creating a sense of speed.

• Snap the photo when your subject’s facial expression is at its most extreme.

WHEN TO CLICK. Knowing the sport helps you predict what the subject will do.

Get Wet

• To take wicked surfing photos, get into the water (obviously), and swim straight to where the surfer takes off. Do not get in the surfer’s way.

• Click the shutter when the surfer is at his highest position.

ALL OR NOTHING. To avoid water droplets appearing on your photos, your lens has to be totally dry or completely wet.

Photographer: Mark Dimalanta

A former physician, Mark Dimalanta is now an avid extreme sports supporter and photojournalist. He is the editor-in-chief of Alon Philippines, the country’s first digital surf guide, and spends his days shooting the board sport lifestyle. When the waves go flat, find him on the pitch shooting for the Philippine National Soccer Team, Azkals. www.markdimalanta.com

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Make Your Jumps Count

• For a perfect jump shot, crouch low so your subject’s jumps look high.

• If your background is cluttered, crouch lower and aim for the clear blue sky.

• When counting off for your subjects to jump, count clearly so they jump at the same time.

KNOW YOUR LIMITATIONS. Don’t let an aging person or an unsupervised toddler do a jump shot. That’s just mean.

Photographer: Jojie Alcantara

Jojie Alcantara is a Davao-based photojournalist who loves traveling and discovering offbeat destinations. She writes for various newspapers and travel magazines, endorses products for television and prints, gives photography workshops, and hosts special events on TV. www.pbase.com/jojie_alcantara

In Nagoya’s leafy Hisaya-Odori Park, generations rub shoulders with mutual respect and devotion. iPod-toting hipsters clad in the latest fashions share benches with octogenarians demonstrating their well-honed koto (a traditional Japanese string instrument) skills. Overhead, the shimmering waters on the roof of the outlandish Oasis 21 building reflect the soaring Nagoya TV Tower, while floors below, eager shoppers snap up the day’s bargains. A perfect snapshot of modern Japanese culture—a fascinating mix of old and new.

A local geisha on her way to an engagement; a visitor sips fresh spring water as a symbolic act of cleansing at the Atsuta Shrine

Despite being the butt of many jokes from the inhabitants of the rest of Japan (rumor circulates that there are no beautiful women left in the city because they all went to Tokyo), contemporary Nagoya and its environs have a multitude of attractions worth exploring. This bustling and progressive city, known as the Detroit of Japan for its thriving automobile industry, makes a great weekend Tokyo getaway or holiday destination in its own right.

At the heart of Nagoya lies the iconic, green-roofed castle, serene and stately amid the city’s soaring skyscrapers. Encircled by acres of beautiful, well-manicured parkland, including a small teahouse in a traditional Japanese garden, it’s the first stop for most visitors. The castle was first built in 1612 by Tokugawa Ieyasu, characterized by two golden “shachi” dolphins adorning the roof.

After burning down during World War II, Nagoya Castle was rebuilt by the city in 1959, and now serves as a museum of artifacts from the Edo Period. Spring is a particularly beautiful season here, with 2,000 cherry blossom trees in delicate, cloud-like bloom around the grounds.

Another must-see in Nagoya is the city’s Osu Kannon Temple. Painted in vibrant red and busy with worshippers all year, this religious site is especially crowded during traditional holidays and seasonal festivals. Flea markets held on the 18th and 28th of each month draw crowds of antique collectors and bargain hunters to Osu Kannon’s grounds and make a great place to pick up camera gear at bargain prices.

Few tourist attractions boast as their main draw an item which none have seen for hundreds of years, which none are permitted to see, and which may not even exist. Yet this is the case with Nagoya’s Atsuta Shrine, said to be the resting place of Kusanagi no Tsurugi, a legendary sword that forms part of the mythical Japanese Imperial Regalia.

Ema are wooden plaques where Shinto believers write down and hang their wishes. Similarly, devout Catholics put their prayer-wishes on paper and leave them in front of altars while Jewish worshippers write their prayers on a piece of paper and push them into cracks in Jerusalem’s Western Wall, formerly known as the “Wailing Wall.”

The Japanese love a good mystery, and the status of the sword is an important factor in enticing millions of visitors to Atsuta every year. The shrine’s main buildings have recently been rebuilt and the new wood gives the complex a light, fresh air. Pathways wind through tall trees, passing carp-filled ponds and over gently curving bridges. Look out for the sake barrel offering by the entrance, and the beautifully plumaged good luck roosters wandering the grounds.

Those looking to indulge in some retail therapy are spoiled for choice in Nagoya. With the Nagoya TV Tower and Oasis 21 as its main landmarks, the Sakae District is the main destination for the city’s fashion-conscious trendsetters (the tower offers great views over Sakae from its two observation decks). Oasis 21 itself is home to several boutiques and high-end eateries, while Sakae’s streets boast myriad shopping, entertainment, and dining opportunities, including various glitzy department stores. A relatively recent addition to the area is Nadya Park, a small city within the city, containing a design center, museum, bookshop, and Loft department store.

A short walk from Sakae is the Hilton Nagoya, one of the city’s premier hotels. The hotel’s Genji Restaurant is particularly renowned for its superb sushi and tempura and desserts made from cherry blossom. In the heart of Sakae is the b Nagoya, a more mid-priced hotel just minutes away from several subway stops and all of Sakae’s shopping temptations.

An entirely different shopping experience can be had over at Nagoya’s Osu “shopping village,” a roofed-over rabbit warren of stores, stalls, and markets offering a mind-boggling array of products. “I just love Osu,” says local Nagoya housewife and guide Miwa Nakaji. “Want a pair of boots? A Gundam robot? A vintage jacket? Just come here and browse!”

Nip your way into the Osu shopping area, which is a mish-mash of finds from traditional arts and crafts, gadgets to fashionable clothes and footwear. Just nearby is the Osu Kannon temple where culture buffs will be delighted.

With so much to offer, Nagoya should be on every Japan visitor’s to-do list. More laidback than Tokyo, a cruise through the Detroit of Japan is all about fun, food, and fancy shopping. And there most certainly are beautiful women in town.