IHeartPH remains in the heart of every Filipino

The Philippines is blessed with amazingly beautiful natural resources and environment.

But more than its physical beauty, the country's people are its true wealth. And that's what IHeartPh advocates - to showcase the beauty of the Philippines and the Filipinos.

True to its core, the magazine show has been consistently uplifting the image of the Philippines and the Filipinos - spreading good vibes. The program promotes love and appreciation of our country, helping the government to amplify its tourism campaign, "Love the Philippines!"

"There are way too many reasons why I love the Philippines!," shares IHeartPh host Valerie Tan. 

"First, our beaches are the best in the world. We have a lot of natural resources and wonders. Undoubtedly, there's still so much to explore. Second, Filipino cuisine! Anthony Bourdain himself said it when he referred to Cebu lechon as the 'best pig, ever'. Lastly, the warmth and hospitality of the Filipino people are unrivaled. Pinoys are usually kind and warm, and always carry a smile on our faces."

IHeartPh piloted in 2018 on CNN Philippines. Now on its 8th season, the magazine show continues to deliver its promise by showcasing inspiring stories and aspirational features.

"I love experiencing new things and going to new places,"  says Valerie. "But more than that, my most favorite part is meeting people from all walks of life, connecting with them, and sharing their stories to our viewers."

 

IHeartPh spreads good vibes here and abroad. In fact, it has been chosen by the Taiwanese government for its tourism promotion. Serving as a regular TV program partner for Philippine promotion, the beauty of Taiwan has been showcased several times. The most recent of which is the "Love Fun Taiwan" campaign.

"We are proud that our show is appreciated outside the country," beams Executive Producer Vanessa Verzosa. "Maybe, the reason why the Taiwanese government trusts us is that they see the direction of the show, which is really to promote inspiring stories and aspirational features. The show is aligned to their goal."

IHeartPH has gained the trust and support of big and small companies, global and local brands as well as famous and ordinary personalities in sharing their stories. 

"Every story we do is unique and there's always a good takeaway, not only for the viewers but also for me!," Valerie adds.

As program host, Valerie gets to immerse herself in the many stories featured in the program. She enjoys every feature. One of the features she immensely enjoyed was her visit to the Amis tribe, the largest indigenous ethnic group in Taiwan. There she got a glimpse of how they live, fish, cook, and even dance! "It's interesting to note that just like us Filipinos, they love to sing and dance!"

"Another memorable feature is the rags to riches story of a member of an essential oil company. This proves that your past doesn't define your future, and you can use the challenges you encountered to fuel you for success."

Eight seasons and counting, IHeartPh is here to stay in the heart of our Filipino viewers. And it continues to ignite Filipinos' love for the country.

"Our commitment is to showcase world-class visual narratives to our viewers," says program director Jallawee Beritan. "We listen to our viewers because they deserve a program that does not only feed their senses but their soul."

"You can be assured you'll feel inspired after each episode," quips Valerie. "No matter where our show takes us; at the end of the day, the Philippines will always be home."

Produced by TV8 Media Productions, IHeartPh Season 8 airs this coming Sunday, July 16, 7 PM on CNN Philippines. Fresh episode every Sunday at 7 PM, with replays on Tuesdays at 4:30 PM.

• Friday, July 14, 2023
• Entertainment

IHEARTPH Remains in the Heart of Every Filipino, Now on Season 8!

IHeartPH remains in the heart of every Filipino

The Philippines is blessed with amazingly beautiful natural resources and environment.

But more than its physical beauty, the country's people are its true wealth. And that's what IHeartPh advocates - to showcase the beauty of the Philippines and the Filipinos.

True to its core, the magazine show has been consistently uplifting the image of the Philippines and the Filipinos - spreading good vibes. The program promotes love and appreciation of our country, helping the government to amplify its tourism campaign, "Love the Philippines!"

"There are way too many reasons why I love the Philippines!," shares IHeartPh host Valerie Tan. 

"First, our beaches are the best in the world. We have a lot of natural resources and wonders. Undoubtedly, there's still so much to explore. Second, Filipino cuisine! Anthony Bourdain himself said it when he referred to Cebu lechon as the 'best pig, ever'. Lastly, the warmth and hospitality of the Filipino people are unrivaled. Pinoys are usually kind and warm, and always carry a smile on our faces."

IHeartPh piloted in 2018 on CNN Philippines. Now on its 8th season, the magazine show continues to deliver its promise by showcasing inspiring stories and aspirational features.

"I love experiencing new things and going to new places,"  says Valerie. "But more than that, my most favorite part is meeting people from all walks of life, connecting with them, and sharing their stories to our viewers."

 

IHeartPh spreads good vibes here and abroad. In fact, it has been chosen by the Taiwanese government for its tourism promotion. Serving as a regular TV program partner for Philippine promotion, the beauty of Taiwan has been showcased several times. The most recent of which is the "Love Fun Taiwan" campaign.

"We are proud that our show is appreciated outside the country," beams Executive Producer Vanessa Verzosa. "Maybe, the reason why the Taiwanese government trusts us is that they see the direction of the show, which is really to promote inspiring stories and aspirational features. The show is aligned to their goal."

IHeartPH has gained the trust and support of big and small companies, global and local brands as well as famous and ordinary personalities in sharing their stories. 

"Every story we do is unique and there's always a good takeaway, not only for the viewers but also for me!," Valerie adds.

As program host, Valerie gets to immerse herself in the many stories featured in the program. She enjoys every feature. One of the features she immensely enjoyed was her visit to the Amis tribe, the largest indigenous ethnic group in Taiwan. There she got a glimpse of how they live, fish, cook, and even dance! "It's interesting to note that just like us Filipinos, they love to sing and dance!"

"Another memorable feature is the rags to riches story of a member of an essential oil company. This proves that your past doesn't define your future, and you can use the challenges you encountered to fuel you for success."

Eight seasons and counting, IHeartPh is here to stay in the heart of our Filipino viewers. And it continues to ignite Filipinos' love for the country.

"Our commitment is to showcase world-class visual narratives to our viewers," says program director Jallawee Beritan. "We listen to our viewers because they deserve a program that does not only feed their senses but their soul."

"You can be assured you'll feel inspired after each episode," quips Valerie. "No matter where our show takes us; at the end of the day, the Philippines will always be home."

Produced by TV8 Media Productions, IHeartPh Season 8 airs this coming Sunday, July 16, 7 PM on CNN Philippines. Fresh episode every Sunday at 7 PM, with replays on Tuesdays at 4:30 PM.

Read more »

Department of Tourism (DOT) Celebrates Golden Anniversary.

Department of Tourism Celebrates Golden Anniversary. The 50th founding year celebration was held last night, June 27,2023 at The Tent City, The Manila Hotel. Graced by President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr., together with Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco and other officials, who also led the unveiling of the country’s enhanced tourism campaign “Love the Philippines” 

Proudly presenting “Love the Philippines” to a crowd composed of former DOT chiefs, officials and employees of the Department's central and regional offices, heads of government agencies including Cabinet Secretaries, house representatives, tourism stakeholders, and the media, Secretary Frasco described the enhanced campaign as timely for the DOT’s 50th-anniversary celebration.

DOT’s enhanced branding is Philippines’ Love Letter to the world

“As we cap the last fifty years of the DOT and welcome this new era of tourism for the Philippines, it is but right that we welcome this opportunity to reintroduce the Philippines to the world,” Secretary Frasco said.

 

"There is so much more to the Philippines than “the fun and adventure” that has so far been articulated to the world. The Philippines is a powerhouse of mega biodiversity, being only one of 18 mega biodiverse countries in the world, a deep well of culture and history, a profound burst and taste of flavor and gastronomy, a tapestry of indigenous peoples and creative communities by whose work of their hands have safeguarded the dignity and integrity of the Filipino identity. This is who we are. These complexities and nuances of the Philippines have yet to be fully articulated to the world for indeed, the story of the Filipino has yet to be fully told, and we shall tell that story by telling them the story of love. Love the Philippines,” - Secretary Frasco 

President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr.
Photo by: Presidential Communications Office

Department of Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco
Photo by: Presidential Communications Office

President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. expressed his utmost support for "Love the Philippines", saying that the enhanced tourism campaign “springs from the genuine love that you, me, and all of us have for the Philippines.”

 

“And what better way to express that love than by directly incorporating it into our country’s newest tourism campaign slogan, Love the Philippines. This new branding which we unveil today, will serve as our guidepost for the Philippine tourism industry moving forward. Allow me then to express my sincerest appreciation to Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco and for the DOT team, because aside from the promotion of the country’s tourist destinations, the campaign that you have conceptualized aims to enhance the overall experience of every travel, included in that list of targets are to promote regional products, build more infrastructure for ease of travel, and champion green movements, among others,” the President enthused.

 

Adjusting to the post-pandemic tourism landscape and changing trends. With the everchanging global tourism landscape post-pandemic and the growing desire of travelers for more immersive experiences in their travels, the DOT viewed the enhanced brand as a timely response to the demands of the industry.

 

In a recent survey conducted by the United Nations World Travel Organization (UNWTO) among its member countries, market repositioning and rebranding strategies is among the priorities identified after the pandemic based on its Survey Findings on Member Priorities for UNWTO program of work 2024-2025.

 

With an enhanced tourism campaign in tow, the DOT’s focus now is to show more of what there is to “Love the Philippines” as it works towards the realization of President Marcos, Jr.’s vision for the country to become a tourism powerhouse in Asia.

 

“Indeed, if we are to compete with our neighbors in our effort as well to partner with them for Asia to become a powerhouse tourism region in the world, the time has come for us to add to the value proposition of the Philippines by telling the world how much more we have to offer,” Secretary Frasco said.

“We have multiple facets of tourism destinations that present a golden opportunity for we have only scratched the surface thus far,” she added. 

According to Secretary Frasco, “The world has noticed that there is so much to love about the Philippines.”  This is as the Philippines has recorded 2,641,993 visitors from January 1 to June 26, 2023, and is close to breaching the 2.65 million arrivals it recorded for 2022.

 

Further, the tourism sector is regarded as a stalwart as far as its contribution to gross domestic product (GDP) is concerned. According to the 2022 Philippine Tourism Satellite Accounts (PTSA) for 2022, the Tourism Direct Gross Value Added (TDGVA) share of the sector to the Philippine economy, as measured by the Gross Domestic Product (GDP), was estimated at 6.2 percent and amounted to PHP 1.38 trillion in 2022.

 

The Philippines is also seeing a boost in tourism-related enterprise employment, with 5.35 million estimated tourism employment last year.

 

As she rallied their support for the DOT’s vision of showcasing the best of the Philippines to the world under the Marcos administration, the Secretary said: “As we usher in this golden era for tourism, for our fellow Filipinos, for our beautiful country, let us find it in our hearts to have that burning pride of place for the Philippines, to Love the Philippines, to usher us into the continued recovery and vigorous comeback of the Philippines to the world.”

Watch the Snaps N' Ganaps  from the Event on my YouTube Channel  :)

Don't forget to like it. comment, and subscribe!

Thanks for reading my blog and feel free to leave comments.
To get the latest update, follow me on my social media accounts.

• Wednesday, June 28, 2023
• Events

Department of Tourism Celebrates 50th Anniversary. Highlights Enhanced Tourism Campaign: Love The Philippines

Department of Tourism (DOT) Celebrates Golden Anniversary.

Department of Tourism Celebrates Golden Anniversary. The 50th founding year celebration was held last night, June 27,2023 at The Tent City, The Manila Hotel. Graced by President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr., together with Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco and other officials, who also led the unveiling of the country’s enhanced tourism campaign “Love the Philippines” 

Proudly presenting “Love the Philippines” to a crowd composed of former DOT chiefs, officials and employees of the Department's central and regional offices, heads of government agencies including Cabinet Secretaries, house representatives, tourism stakeholders, and the media, Secretary Frasco described the enhanced campaign as timely for the DOT’s 50th-anniversary celebration.

DOT’s enhanced branding is Philippines’ Love Letter to the world

“As we cap the last fifty years of the DOT and welcome this new era of tourism for the Philippines, it is but right that we welcome this opportunity to reintroduce the Philippines to the world,” Secretary Frasco said.

 

"There is so much more to the Philippines than “the fun and adventure” that has so far been articulated to the world. The Philippines is a powerhouse of mega biodiversity, being only one of 18 mega biodiverse countries in the world, a deep well of culture and history, a profound burst and taste of flavor and gastronomy, a tapestry of indigenous peoples and creative communities by whose work of their hands have safeguarded the dignity and integrity of the Filipino identity. This is who we are. These complexities and nuances of the Philippines have yet to be fully articulated to the world for indeed, the story of the Filipino has yet to be fully told, and we shall tell that story by telling them the story of love. Love the Philippines,” - Secretary Frasco 

President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr.
Photo by: Presidential Communications Office

Department of Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco
Photo by: Presidential Communications Office

President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. expressed his utmost support for "Love the Philippines", saying that the enhanced tourism campaign “springs from the genuine love that you, me, and all of us have for the Philippines.”

 

“And what better way to express that love than by directly incorporating it into our country’s newest tourism campaign slogan, Love the Philippines. This new branding which we unveil today, will serve as our guidepost for the Philippine tourism industry moving forward. Allow me then to express my sincerest appreciation to Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco and for the DOT team, because aside from the promotion of the country’s tourist destinations, the campaign that you have conceptualized aims to enhance the overall experience of every travel, included in that list of targets are to promote regional products, build more infrastructure for ease of travel, and champion green movements, among others,” the President enthused.

 

Adjusting to the post-pandemic tourism landscape and changing trends. With the everchanging global tourism landscape post-pandemic and the growing desire of travelers for more immersive experiences in their travels, the DOT viewed the enhanced brand as a timely response to the demands of the industry.

 

In a recent survey conducted by the United Nations World Travel Organization (UNWTO) among its member countries, market repositioning and rebranding strategies is among the priorities identified after the pandemic based on its Survey Findings on Member Priorities for UNWTO program of work 2024-2025.

 

With an enhanced tourism campaign in tow, the DOT’s focus now is to show more of what there is to “Love the Philippines” as it works towards the realization of President Marcos, Jr.’s vision for the country to become a tourism powerhouse in Asia.

 

“Indeed, if we are to compete with our neighbors in our effort as well to partner with them for Asia to become a powerhouse tourism region in the world, the time has come for us to add to the value proposition of the Philippines by telling the world how much more we have to offer,” Secretary Frasco said.

“We have multiple facets of tourism destinations that present a golden opportunity for we have only scratched the surface thus far,” she added. 

According to Secretary Frasco, “The world has noticed that there is so much to love about the Philippines.”  This is as the Philippines has recorded 2,641,993 visitors from January 1 to June 26, 2023, and is close to breaching the 2.65 million arrivals it recorded for 2022.

 

Further, the tourism sector is regarded as a stalwart as far as its contribution to gross domestic product (GDP) is concerned. According to the 2022 Philippine Tourism Satellite Accounts (PTSA) for 2022, the Tourism Direct Gross Value Added (TDGVA) share of the sector to the Philippine economy, as measured by the Gross Domestic Product (GDP), was estimated at 6.2 percent and amounted to PHP 1.38 trillion in 2022.

 

The Philippines is also seeing a boost in tourism-related enterprise employment, with 5.35 million estimated tourism employment last year.

 

As she rallied their support for the DOT’s vision of showcasing the best of the Philippines to the world under the Marcos administration, the Secretary said: “As we usher in this golden era for tourism, for our fellow Filipinos, for our beautiful country, let us find it in our hearts to have that burning pride of place for the Philippines, to Love the Philippines, to usher us into the continued recovery and vigorous comeback of the Philippines to the world.”

Watch the Snaps N' Ganaps  from the Event on my YouTube Channel  :)

Don't forget to like it. comment, and subscribe!

Thanks for reading my blog and feel free to leave comments.
To get the latest update, follow me on my social media accounts.

Read more »

Have you been to the EU? As for me, I haven't yet but it's definitely on my bucket list! How I really wish that I would be able to explore and experience it too. Luckily, we can now have a glimpse and taste of the European Union for 2 days! 

Visit the EU in two days as it launches its first-ever exciting and dynamic Euro Village!

UPDATE from Euro Village Facebook Page: Please be advised that due to incoming Typhoon Betty (Mawar) Euro Village is postponed to the following weekend June 3-4, 2023, same time and same place. Follow our page for more details and updates.

Look no further, because, on May 27 & 28 2023,  you will have every chance to visit the whole European Union.  The Capital Commons Park, Pasig will be converted into a Euro Village. Admission is open to the public for free from 4PM to 12 midnight. 

Savour the ultimate adventure of the senses, in European style!

The Euro Village offers an exciting and dynamic sample of European Union culture, arts, music, food and gastronomy, products, crafts, languages, and sports - all in two days and in one hub.

Photos from Euro Village Facebook Page

You can find the best novelties from:

• Belgium
• Czech Republic
• Denmark
• Germany
• Spain
• France
• Italy
• Hungary
• Netherlands
• Austria
• Romania
• Finland. 
• *In solidarity with Ukraine in these dire hours, Euro Village will also feature Ukrainian participation.

Dr. Ana Isabel Sanchez Ruiz, Deputy Head of Delegation of the European Union of the
Philippines said, “The essence of the Euro Village is to make these vibrant and diverse cultures accessible to the reach of Filipinos and to open up markets and trade opportunities “.

“Culture has always been at the core of our unique diversity as Europeans”, she said, “We want to share this uniqueness with the Filipinos”, she added saying that the Euro Village project is in celebration of the anniversary of the founding of the European Union on May 9.

From bread and rye, waffles, sausages, dairy products, and beer, to special concerts and sports demonstrations, the Euro Village has lovely surprises in one go.

And for those yearning to learn a European language but who have not yet had the time to try, the Euro Village Cultural and Language Center will bring French, German, Italian, and Spanish lessons in a snap, thanks to the collaboration of Alliance Francaise de Manille, Goethe Institut, Instituto Cervantes Manila and the Philippine-Italian Association.

For those who are interested in  European Music or would like to jam with artist, the Euro Village will have guest performers from Romania, Ukraine, and a serenade from the Manila String Machine, who will be rendering European songs and pieces.

Fantastic mimes and buskers will also be available to entertain guest and participants throughout the two-day European Village festival. 

Photos from Euro Village Facebook Page

To ensure that this EU’s initiative promotes a sustainable lifestyle and reduction of greenhouse emissions, the EU has engaged with Green Space, Scholars of Sustenance Philippines, and EcoNest as sustainability partners.

What are you waiting for? Come on board! 

For more details, visit Euro Village Facebook Page 

Update: Euro Village is postponed to the following weekend June 3-4, 2023, same time and same place. Follow our page for more details and updates.

A digital passport is also in store for you in your journey through the borderless Euro Village. Sign up early as now at https://www.eurovillageph.com

Thanks for reading my blog and feel free to leave comments.
To get the latest update, follow me on my social media accounts.

• Wednesday, May 24, 2023
• Education

Experience The European Union in 2 days at The First-Ever Euro Village.

Have you been to the EU? As for me, I haven't yet but it's definitely on my bucket list! How I really wish that I would be able to explore and experience it too. Luckily, we can now have a glimpse and taste of the European Union for 2 days! 

Visit the EU in two days as it launches its first-ever exciting and dynamic Euro Village!

UPDATE from Euro Village Facebook Page: Please be advised that due to incoming Typhoon Betty (Mawar) Euro Village is postponed to the following weekend June 3-4, 2023, same time and same place. Follow our page for more details and updates.

Look no further, because, on May 27 & 28 2023,  you will have every chance to visit the whole European Union.  The Capital Commons Park, Pasig will be converted into a Euro Village. Admission is open to the public for free from 4PM to 12 midnight. 

Savour the ultimate adventure of the senses, in European style!

The Euro Village offers an exciting and dynamic sample of European Union culture, arts, music, food and gastronomy, products, crafts, languages, and sports - all in two days and in one hub.

Photos from Euro Village Facebook Page

You can find the best novelties from:

• Belgium
• Czech Republic
• Denmark
• Germany
• Spain
• France
• Italy
• Hungary
• Netherlands
• Austria
• Romania
• Finland. 
• *In solidarity with Ukraine in these dire hours, Euro Village will also feature Ukrainian participation.

Dr. Ana Isabel Sanchez Ruiz, Deputy Head of Delegation of the European Union of the
Philippines said, “The essence of the Euro Village is to make these vibrant and diverse cultures accessible to the reach of Filipinos and to open up markets and trade opportunities “.

“Culture has always been at the core of our unique diversity as Europeans”, she said, “We want to share this uniqueness with the Filipinos”, she added saying that the Euro Village project is in celebration of the anniversary of the founding of the European Union on May 9.

From bread and rye, waffles, sausages, dairy products, and beer, to special concerts and sports demonstrations, the Euro Village has lovely surprises in one go.

And for those yearning to learn a European language but who have not yet had the time to try, the Euro Village Cultural and Language Center will bring French, German, Italian, and Spanish lessons in a snap, thanks to the collaboration of Alliance Francaise de Manille, Goethe Institut, Instituto Cervantes Manila and the Philippine-Italian Association.

For those who are interested in  European Music or would like to jam with artist, the Euro Village will have guest performers from Romania, Ukraine, and a serenade from the Manila String Machine, who will be rendering European songs and pieces.

Fantastic mimes and buskers will also be available to entertain guest and participants throughout the two-day European Village festival. 

Photos from Euro Village Facebook Page

To ensure that this EU’s initiative promotes a sustainable lifestyle and reduction of greenhouse emissions, the EU has engaged with Green Space, Scholars of Sustenance Philippines, and EcoNest as sustainability partners.

What are you waiting for? Come on board! 

For more details, visit Euro Village Facebook Page 

Update: Euro Village is postponed to the following weekend June 3-4, 2023, same time and same place. Follow our page for more details and updates.

A digital passport is also in store for you in your journey through the borderless Euro Village. Sign up early as now at https://www.eurovillageph.com

Thanks for reading my blog and feel free to leave comments.
To get the latest update, follow me on my social media accounts.

Read more »

How the Entertainment Scene Continues to Thrive in Alabama

Alabama is one of the most incredible states on Earth, even if most people don't realize it!  Not only is it the original home state of famous names like Jimmy Buffet and Nat King Cole, but more performers seem to come out every year with new acts and fantastic shows.

So how’s the entertainment scene doing in Alabama?  Here’s everything you need to know.

The State is Still Bouncing Back From Covid-19

Covid-19 hit Alabama hard.  This State, with a population of just 4.893 million people, saw over 1.33 million cases of Covid-19 and over 20,000 deaths.  These are stunning numbers that severely slowed down the state from late 2020 through early 2022, and the state is still struggling to recover.  Although cases have slowed to a more reasonable rate, it's taking time for entertainment to make its way back.

Thankfully, some shows are already returning as of the summer of 2022.

Tourism is a Major Source of Revenue

Tourism has been a large source of revenue for Alabama, bringing nearly $20 billion in 2021, despite how shut down the state was.  This doesn't even include the nearly $1.1 billion in taxes this revenue added.  Although nature and wildlife are a large reason why people come to the state, so is the entertainment scene.  People know to expect a great show out of Alabama, and once they arrive get curious to start looking at Birmingham houses for rent while they’re here. 

There’s No End to the Kinds of Performances

Alabama is best known for rock and outlaw country, but there are tons of different performers and singers from this state, covering everything from jazz and blues to stadium country.  

This is a massive state filled with a large assortment of different and interesting people, and with them comes some amazing music tastes and abilities that you won't find anywhere else.  

This ensures you can come back every weekend for a different show and never get bored of any one genre. 

More Performers Are Coming to This State Than Before

Performers are incredible people that can hold the attention of entire stadiums and keep them entranced while they play music and sing to the crowd.  More concerts are making stops in Alabama than have in the past, which means there's a larger selection of options and a bigger chance of seeing someone famous that you'd want to see.  You're not cut off from the world here! 

The Cities Are Continuing to Grow

Many cities in Alabama are quickly growing!  From Foley, which grew over 7% in one year, to Athens, that's trailing behind at 5.2% growth.  This amount of growth ensures that there are more people eager to go to live shows and more performers arriving in this state that haven't been here before.

Alabama Understands Entertainment

Alabama has a long history of turning out stars over the last 150 years.  Whether you’re here to watch a favorite, or you’re interested in seeing someone more unknown, it’s a good idea to catch a show if you’re in town!

• Thursday, July 14, 2022
• Entertainment

How the Entertainment Scene Continues to Thrive in Alabama

How the Entertainment Scene Continues to Thrive in Alabama

Alabama is one of the most incredible states on Earth, even if most people don't realize it!  Not only is it the original home state of famous names like Jimmy Buffet and Nat King Cole, but more performers seem to come out every year with new acts and fantastic shows.

So how’s the entertainment scene doing in Alabama?  Here’s everything you need to know.

The State is Still Bouncing Back From Covid-19

Covid-19 hit Alabama hard.  This State, with a population of just 4.893 million people, saw over 1.33 million cases of Covid-19 and over 20,000 deaths.  These are stunning numbers that severely slowed down the state from late 2020 through early 2022, and the state is still struggling to recover.  Although cases have slowed to a more reasonable rate, it's taking time for entertainment to make its way back.

Thankfully, some shows are already returning as of the summer of 2022.

Tourism is a Major Source of Revenue

Tourism has been a large source of revenue for Alabama, bringing nearly $20 billion in 2021, despite how shut down the state was.  This doesn't even include the nearly $1.1 billion in taxes this revenue added.  Although nature and wildlife are a large reason why people come to the state, so is the entertainment scene.  People know to expect a great show out of Alabama, and once they arrive get curious to start looking at Birmingham houses for rent while they’re here. 

There’s No End to the Kinds of Performances

Alabama is best known for rock and outlaw country, but there are tons of different performers and singers from this state, covering everything from jazz and blues to stadium country.  

This is a massive state filled with a large assortment of different and interesting people, and with them comes some amazing music tastes and abilities that you won't find anywhere else.  

This ensures you can come back every weekend for a different show and never get bored of any one genre. 

More Performers Are Coming to This State Than Before

Performers are incredible people that can hold the attention of entire stadiums and keep them entranced while they play music and sing to the crowd.  More concerts are making stops in Alabama than have in the past, which means there's a larger selection of options and a bigger chance of seeing someone famous that you'd want to see.  You're not cut off from the world here! 

The Cities Are Continuing to Grow

Many cities in Alabama are quickly growing!  From Foley, which grew over 7% in one year, to Athens, that's trailing behind at 5.2% growth.  This amount of growth ensures that there are more people eager to go to live shows and more performers arriving in this state that haven't been here before.

Alabama Understands Entertainment

Alabama has a long history of turning out stars over the last 150 years.  Whether you’re here to watch a favorite, or you’re interested in seeing someone more unknown, it’s a good idea to catch a show if you’re in town!

Read more »

Exploring Manila with my Asus Zenfone 4 Selfie Lite

There's No Place like Manila.

My ideal summer vacay? It'll be a trip to the awesome beaches of Palawan or get up North to my happy place that I call Baguio.  But when I was younger, summer vacay means staying at home and or playing on the streets that I do and I grew up to. I was born and raised in the beautiful city of Manila. But even being here and living in this lovely city for 30-ish years, I admit I haven't explored it to bits. Now that I'm more into creating my content for the blog I have this idea that maybe, just maybe I can start exploring the city and share it with the world. Naks! I sound so dreamy! Follow me?

Exploring Manila and What's Left of Summer 2018

• Wednesday, June 13, 2018
• Travel

Exploring Manila and What's Left of Summer 2018

Exploring Manila with my Asus Zenfone 4 Selfie Lite

There's No Place like Manila.

My ideal summer vacay? It'll be a trip to the awesome beaches of Palawan or get up North to my happy place that I call Baguio.  But when I was younger, summer vacay means staying at home and or playing on the streets that I do and I grew up to. I was born and raised in the beautiful city of Manila. But even being here and living in this lovely city for 30-ish years, I admit I haven't explored it to bits. Now that I'm more into creating my content for the blog I have this idea that maybe, just maybe I can start exploring the city and share it with the world. Naks! I sound so dreamy! Follow me?

Exploring Manila and What's Left of Summer 2018

Read more »

So much feels in this photo. I can't contain my excitement being here for the Lubao International Balloon and Music Festival 2018. Yes, another hot air balloon festival that I was able to be part of this year. Hot Air Balloons really is such an amazing sight.

But the struggle is real for the not-so-morning-person in me. Team #EatGetaway decided to travel up north the night of March23 after an event that we all are in, up we go for a road trip with Az, Enzo, and Ted of Eatgetaway. 

Housed at Royce Hotel in Clark I should be up and be going by 4am to Pradera Verde in Prado Siongco Lubao, Pampanga. Oops, I'm not complaining, you know there's no stopping me when it comes to having a gala!

This is my first time being here for The Lubao International Balloon and Music Festival. The first day of the 3day festival seems pretty fine except for the chilly breeze of the super early morning. We arrived just in time as we can still see some of the balloons being set-up.

As the sun starts to shine on us, one by one the balloons rose up. 

Still having the cold morning breeze, yet the strong wind kicks in.

With this, the balloon flights were canceled. I kinda felt sad for my first day here in LubaoIBMF. But safety should always come first. Wind is a major factor in flying a hot air balloon. For the wind affects every phase of its flight. Stable winds like 4-6miles per hour are the ideal measures for a good balloon flight. 

Watch how my day went at the #LubaoIBMF2018. 

See how strong the winds were and take a peak of how the balloons are being set up.

The fun didn't stop there, actually, the fun part is just getting started. 

At night, the LUBAO IBMF offers another attraction that festival goers will surely love.

The Night Glow
also known as Balloon Glow

As the sun sets, the balloons are just being set up once more for another wonderful attraction.

The Night Glow, also known as the balloon glow is my favorite part of any Hot Air Balloon Festivals.

The balloons are stationed and being lighted up intermittently by the propane burners.

And the effect is so awesome, seeing it like having a magical glow.

Never fails to amaze me.





Still, the night is young and the Lubao IBMF got so much more activities lined up for us.
Just after the Night Glow, the Music Festival took place. 



Ex Battalion invites you to #VisitPampanga!
Watch it here

The first-night was Performances from Ex Battalion, Kyoto, Silent Sanctuary, and Moira dela Torre

Watch the Snaps and Ganaps feat. Silent Sanctuary here

Watch the Snaps and Ganaps feat. Moira dela Torre here
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLUrI9xBBG7OGJVv5x_M0g5AnF4hbitq-q

The second-night was performances from Autotelic, December Avenue, Michael Pangilinan, and Sarah Geronimo

Watch the Snaps and Ganaps featuring Sarah Geronimo

On Day2 MayMay and Edward of the #MayWard loveteam joins the fun and kept the festival goers entertained with tons of kilig feels. 

Watch the Snaps and Ganaps about #MayWard on my Youtube

And on Day3, loveteam McCoy and Elisse was there

As for the third-and final-night of the festival, I wasn't able to see it for pagodabells na ang lolabells nyo. It was performances from Ben & Ben, Random Collective, Up Dharma Down, and Bamboo.

For Snaps and Ganaps at the Lubao International Balloon and Music Festival

check this out: Lubao IBMF Videos

It was a super-awesome-fun-packed Festival that I have ever been into.

Thank You Lubao IBMF for a great experience!

#LubaoIBMF2018 

Definitely a must in my #VisitPampanga bucket list!

• Thursday, April 05, 2018
• Travel

Visit Pampanga: The Lubao IBMF 2018.

So much feels in this photo. I can't contain my excitement being here for the Lubao International Balloon and Music Festival 2018. Yes, another hot air balloon festival that I was able to be part of this year. Hot Air Balloons really is such an amazing sight.

But the struggle is real for the not-so-morning-person in me. Team #EatGetaway decided to travel up north the night of March23 after an event that we all are in, up we go for a road trip with Az, Enzo, and Ted of Eatgetaway. 

Housed at Royce Hotel in Clark I should be up and be going by 4am to Pradera Verde in Prado Siongco Lubao, Pampanga. Oops, I'm not complaining, you know there's no stopping me when it comes to having a gala!

This is my first time being here for The Lubao International Balloon and Music Festival. The first day of the 3day festival seems pretty fine except for the chilly breeze of the super early morning. We arrived just in time as we can still see some of the balloons being set-up.

As the sun starts to shine on us, one by one the balloons rose up. 

Still having the cold morning breeze, yet the strong wind kicks in.

With this, the balloon flights were canceled. I kinda felt sad for my first day here in LubaoIBMF. But safety should always come first. Wind is a major factor in flying a hot air balloon. For the wind affects every phase of its flight. Stable winds like 4-6miles per hour are the ideal measures for a good balloon flight. 

Watch how my day went at the #LubaoIBMF2018. 

See how strong the winds were and take a peak of how the balloons are being set up.

The fun didn't stop there, actually, the fun part is just getting started. 

At night, the LUBAO IBMF offers another attraction that festival goers will surely love.

The Night Glow
also known as Balloon Glow

As the sun sets, the balloons are just being set up once more for another wonderful attraction.

The Night Glow, also known as the balloon glow is my favorite part of any Hot Air Balloon Festivals.

The balloons are stationed and being lighted up intermittently by the propane burners.

And the effect is so awesome, seeing it like having a magical glow.

Never fails to amaze me.





Still, the night is young and the Lubao IBMF got so much more activities lined up for us.
Just after the Night Glow, the Music Festival took place. 



Ex Battalion invites you to #VisitPampanga!
Watch it here

The first-night was Performances from Ex Battalion, Kyoto, Silent Sanctuary, and Moira dela Torre

Watch the Snaps and Ganaps feat. Silent Sanctuary here

Watch the Snaps and Ganaps feat. Moira dela Torre here
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLUrI9xBBG7OGJVv5x_M0g5AnF4hbitq-q

The second-night was performances from Autotelic, December Avenue, Michael Pangilinan, and Sarah Geronimo

Watch the Snaps and Ganaps featuring Sarah Geronimo

On Day2 MayMay and Edward of the #MayWard loveteam joins the fun and kept the festival goers entertained with tons of kilig feels. 

Watch the Snaps and Ganaps about #MayWard on my Youtube

And on Day3, loveteam McCoy and Elisse was there

As for the third-and final-night of the festival, I wasn't able to see it for pagodabells na ang lolabells nyo. It was performances from Ben & Ben, Random Collective, Up Dharma Down, and Bamboo.

For Snaps and Ganaps at the Lubao International Balloon and Music Festival

check this out: Lubao IBMF Videos

It was a super-awesome-fun-packed Festival that I have ever been into.

Thank You Lubao IBMF for a great experience!

#LubaoIBMF2018 

Definitely a must in my #VisitPampanga bucket list!

Read more »