Fine Leather Briefcases for Men

A leather briefcase is a classy and distinguished way to set yourself apart from other men. People notice the small things; a briefcase will subtly tell everyone around you that you are someone who is not to be taken lightly.

 Briefcases are perfect for hauling around important documents and electronic equipment; the sturdiness and durability of the leather provides a layer of protection for everything you put inside of it. People love the fact that briefcases can carry so much stuff without looking like a backpack or bag; they truly are a distinguished carrying case.

 When you pick up a briefcase, always make sure to use a reputable site like http://www.ghurka.com. Stores like this have a variety of choices for you to choose from; they have specific briefcases to meet all of your needs. Try to find a briefcase with enough compartments; they can help you organize and access all of your important stuff.

 Most modern briefcases have a compartment for your electronics. If you can't live without your cell phone, get a briefcase with a cell phone compartment; your phone stays safe and protected. A water-resistant briefcase ensures that everything inside of it stays protected from rain and snow.

 People who use fine leather briefcases men for electronics often choose soft leather. Soft leather is lightweight and stylish; these easy to carry briefcases take the hassle out of lugging your laptop around town.

 When you choose to carry a briefcase, you choose a convenient and stylish way to carry important stuff. People notice distinguished gentlemen; a briefcase goes a long way towards getting you the respect and admiration that you deserve.

Isla Naburot: A Perfect hideaway in the enchanted island of Guimaras

I have been in the island-province of Guimaras so many times before but I never really got tired of its rustic charm that can make you forget the trivial problems of the modern world. Thing is, the island itself is a tapestry of nature at its finest that every corner seems to have been created by God with a spell of charm and a sprinkle of enchantment. It might not be Palawan or Boracay but it is one of the most convenient beach destinations there is in the region since it's just a boat ride away from Iloilo City, which is one of the most important gateway cities in the Philippines.

Most of us have heard of Alubihod, Guisi and El Retiro beaches which are amongst the popular tourist destinations in Gumaras but there are also a few places which are also worth visiting. For instance, one of my favorite resorts which lies in a hidden cove somewhere in the island is 'Isla Naburot'. This beautiful family owned resort is only accessible by motorboat and prides itself for being a real island hideaway. The island is mainly solar powered but still provides basic amenities that every tourist would be needing. It's discreet location is perfect for intimate occasions and for vacation goers who wish to escape the hustle and bustle their city lives. 

One of the features of Isla Naburot which has enchanted is the ruins of an old ancestral house that lies on top of a huge rock overlooking the sea. It stands as a welcome sign that tells everyone that they have indeed reached the resort. Though abandoned, the house seems to be carrying an flair of enchantment and memories of colorful past. The downhill path from the house leads to the very cove where most of the main buildings and cottages are located. There is also a small white sand beach that lies before a coral reef diving spot.

Food and lodging may not be as cheap as the other more popular resorts but it's totally worth it. See, it's not the ordinary beach you see anywhere. There's just something a little special about it and that's what makes Isla Naburot a must-see when you're in Guimaras.

For Reservations, you can call : 0918 909 8500  

Blue Jay Coffee: A Premier Cafe in the Heart of Iloilo City

They say that a cup of warm coffee in the morning can liven you up for the entire day and a dose of caffeine in the afternoon can take away all the stress that's tiring you out. No matter which time of the day you prefer to have a cup of espresso or macchiato, it's always perfect when you're in a relaxing place where there's nothing else to stir you senses but the smell of brewed coffee and the sweet taste of chocolate cakes.

Bluejay Cofee is an established cafe that has been quite popular to coffee enthusiasts for the past few years. It is not only known for its delicious blends of coffees but its menu offers a variety of delicacies from sweets to pizzas, pastas, steaks and sausages and other meals making it not only a good place to unwind but a haven for food lovers as well. It is both classy and down-to-earth which makes it very 'Ilonggo' in every sense. There are two branches that can be found in premier locations in the city. The Iznart branch at Amigo Mall and the Ayala Technohub Branch at Smallville.

One thing I love about BlueJay is the ambiance of their cafes. Being an artist myself, the use of contemporary art is something that takes me to a different world, perhaps a different era. It is both relaxing and soulspriring which makes it a perfect hideaway from the city's hustle and bustle.

For reservations visit: BlueJay Coffee Reservations

Calle Real: Downtown Iloilo's Heritage Street

In the olden days, before malls and other shopping centres were established in the city of Iloilo, there thrived Calle Real, what is now known as the downtown heritage street. Being strategically located in an area adjacent to one of the country's most busiest waterfronts, Calle Real became one of the most important trading communities in the region. In fact, the National Hero, Dr. Jose Rizal had once admired the life that bloomed in these streets during the late colonial reign. Who wouldn't? It's beautiful old world charm eludes a classic atmosphere quite similar with that of Macau's Portuguese district. In fact it is only in this certain part of the city where one can find the most intact collection of Heritage Buildings in the entire province.

Though modernization has taken its toll on these beautiful treasures, many organizations had been working hand and hand with government to revive what was once the glory of the old Queen City. Today,  tourists and locals alike will appreciate the efforts of those who had worked hard in restoring the beautiful buildings of Calle Real. Now, what had been a forgotten piece of the city is slowly taking in a new breath of life and though the street is still as busy as it had been, one will truly feel that once a upon a time, there was a strange and beautiful world that existed in this very place and that it was more magical than anyone of us could ever imagine.

Punta Villa Hotel and Resort

It's never difficult to find a good place to stay whenever you're in Iloilo. Being one of the tourism gateways of the country, Iloilo itself has become a major travel destination in the Philippines for the past few years thus bring thousands and thousands of local and foreign tourists every year. This is one reason why Iloilo's Hotel and Real Estate industry grew and flourished.

Amongst the most popular hotel and resort destinations in Iloilo is Punta Villa, which is located in Arevalo District. It is strategically located near the Villa beach where you can find the famous sea side restaurants Tatoy's and Breakthrough . The resort not only comes with a beautiful neoclassic colonial hotel but it also has large swimming pool for adults and a kiddie pool equipped with slides for children. The restaurant also serves good food and the best part is that it's not even very expensive. It is a popular place for wedding receptions, conventions and basically any other celebration there is to name.

The rooms at hotel are also cozy and will definitely make you feel at home. From family rooms to presidential suites, Punta Villa has it all complete with all the necessary amenities that'll make your stay as comfortable as possible.

My favorite part of Punta Villa is the Gloria Maris Garden which is an outdoor reception area for weddings. Like most buildings in the resort, that garden, complete with a gazebo has a touch of Spanish and Filipino Architecture thus showcasing colonial art which Iloilo is fanous for.  

The Lizares Mansion comes to Life

Just on the other side of the Jaro river lies one of Iloilo's most popular academies, the Angelicum School. Not only that it is famous for being one of the best Christian schools in the city but it is also known to be the home of what was once the villa of a rich baron, the Lizares Mansion.

The villa is indeed amongst the most beautiful tourist attractions in the city specifically, in the district of Jaro which is basically known for its collection of sprawling century old mansions. It is not only in an icon of the beauty of the European rule but in some way it also symbolizes a certain part of the Ilonggo history. The villa was the home of a rich sugar baron and his family. It was considered one of the most beautiful mansions in the city of Iloilo and at par with the famous Nelly Garden Mansion, the White House at the South.

What a lot of people do not know is that the mansion had suffered the wrath of the second world war. Its iconic beauty had faded and its beautiful history was stained with blood and death. However, not too many years after the war, the mansion was transformed into what is now the Angelicum School. Those who had taken over the property has not failed to restore its old charm and antiquity. Nowadays, the mansion is a popular Christmas attraction mainly because its beautifully crafted exterior is decorated with stunning Christmas lights and lanterns.

All aboard the Liberty Of The Seas

If you are hoping to grab yourself some winter sun in the latter part of 2012 or the early months of next year then a cruise holiday should be high on your list of options. You can set sail in serious style on ships like the Liberty Of The Seas, which is part of Royal Caribbean's Freedom Class of vessels and is among the most popular ships currently out on the open waves. The reasons why the Liberty is so highly regarded are simple enough, it is essentially down to the array of activity and dinning options, the quality of the accommodation and the atmosphere on-board. All of which are excellent and the particularly great news is that there are dozens of cut-price packages available right now and very reasonable prices offered all year round.

There are any number of destinations around the world that holidaymakers can travel to in the winter months in order to soak up some sun. But taking a cruise always means that guests can combine wonderful weather with the chance to see a variety of different areas of the world in an environment purpose-built to deliver unrivaled levels of comfort and relaxation. Looking specifically at what the Liberty of the Seas has to offer, anyone lucky enough to book a stay on-board can expect access to virtually everything that is good about cruise ships and the very best of Royal Caribbean style.

So if you love nothing more than to take in a show in the early evening or you are more of an energetic activities kind of person then you are bound to be impressed by the Liberty. The ship as a whole was refurbished not so long ago and it is very close to the cutting edge of what cruise ships are all about these days. So there's every chance that the Liberty will deliver that holiday of a lifetime experience you've been after but at the very least in the coming months you'll be able to soak up plenty of winter sun. 

How to Book a Cheap Holiday Deal

As fuel costs and travel taxes soar, finding an affordable cheap holiday deal can seem an impossible task. Don’t let this put you off; the trick is in knowing when and where to find package holidays to suit your budget. Not all getaways have to break the bank.

Look at your travel group and consider when would be the best time to travel. While families with school aged children are restricted to term timetables, those with pre-schoolers or no children at all can book outside of these peak periods to save a small fortune.

Sadly many families will not be able to benefit from out of season cheap deals, which is when discount holiday websites can help. Collating all of the best bargain breaks from trusted tour operators, discount holiday websites provide the best prices for your stay without sacrificing any of the luxuries.

In addition, choose a hotel which offers discounts on child places. Depending on your choice of accommodation, children can travel from as little as £1. Use the difference to top up your holiday spends kitty.

Once you have established when you would like to travel, the key is when you choose to make your booking. Those looking to fly within the next six months could save hundreds by putting funds away into a savings account and then bagging a last minute deal.

That being said, breaks for 2013 are best booked in advance. Try to secure your ideal holiday package as soon as the dates are released. In doing this you will ensure you receive any early bird discounts, web exclusive discounts and as many interest free months as possible to pay off your holiday balance.

Take a look a discount holiday websites to find a package holidays to fit your budget. Your ideal cheap holiday deal is waiting for you.

Buenavista, Guimaras: On the Other Side

Guimaras is known as the most accessible white sand beach tourist destination from Iloilo City. The island -province is famous for its serene cliff side beaches and for its sweet mangoes (said to be the sweetest in the country).

Though most tourists would agree that the white sand beaches of Nueva Valencia are pretty much like that of Boracay, not so many are familiar with the beaches in the district of Buenavista. The sand on the beaches on these parts of the island is distinctive for its unique color, creamy and almost pinkish when soaked. The town is also known for the 7 Sister Islands, locally known as 'Siete Picados'. Legends say that these islands were once beautiful sisters who ran away from home and drowned in the sea. On the village of Navalas lies, a small church (The Navalas Church) that was built in during the late years of the Spanish Colonial Era. It appears to be like a miniature version of the grand white stone Cathedral of Candelaria in the district of Jaro.

Paraw Regatta: The Colors of The Sea

Paraw Regatta is one of Iloilo city's most popular tourism events along with Dinagyang, Kasadyahan and the Iloilo Chinese New Year. Every February, the festival would lighten up the beaches of Villa Arevalo with colorful 'paraws' or wind blown sailboats, Mardi Gras inspired street performances, beach sports and so much more.Local tourists from all over the city would gather to witness the  spectacular  sailboat race from Villa beach to Guimaras and of course, the Samba Regatta where ladies in their festive costumes would dance in the tune of Latin American music.

Paraw Regatta started out a simple boat racing competition, during its earlier years, the sailboats weren't as artistic and as colorful as the ones we see today. Mardi Gras, Beach Sports and other activities were just recent additions. The festival does not only showcase fun, music and colors but it also emanate a part of our diverse culture.

The Beautiful Iloilo River: The very Life-vein of the City

Named after its peculiar nose-like shape or 'Ilong', the river of Iloilo is one of the most important rivers there is in the country not only for the fact that it runs through the heart of Iloilo City itself but for it also hosts one of the most busiest ports in the Philippines; El Puerto de Muelle Loney.

Before the Spaniards came in the Island, the marshland surrounding the river of Iloilo has been known as a rich trading settlement between local and foreign merchants. Here, traders from China, India and other countries flock to exchange goods with the locals. This is the very reason why the Spaniards built a port in the mouth of the river which will serve as a gateway between Panay and its neighboring islands. In 1855, El Puerto de Muelle Loney, one of the first international sea ports in the country was opened and spurred the economy of the city making it the second most richest city after Manila.

Today Iloilo River serves as a major tourist attraction. The river bank is home to 22 species out of the countries 35 known species of Mangrove trees. Hotels such as Hotel del Rio, The Castle Hotel, River Queen Hotel and Sarabia Manor are located facing Iloilo River as well. Aside from that Marina, Barbeque Village, Tijuana and many more famous Ilonggo restaurants runs along the riverside and so as the famous Iloilo River Boulevard which is Iloilo's version of Dumaguete's Rizal Boulevard and Manila Bay.

The Jaro Metropolitan Cathedral's restored elegance

When one speaks of a town called Jaro, known in the hispanic era as Xaro, he might as well mention of magnificent mansions and of Hispanic ancestral stone houses, of a beautiful 19th century belltower and of a religious Catholic fiesta that would last for more than a month or two. Yes! Jaro is indeed Iloilo City’s very own folklore town.
But if Jaro is known for one thing aside from its antiques, then it would be the Metropolitan Cathedral which is also the highest seat of Roman Catholicism in the Region. The Cathedral of Candelaria-which it is fondly called by the townspeople- is known as largest house worship in the entire province.The walls are built of white and cream colored fossil rock and coral stones. It’s exterior is baroque in its simplest form though recent additions to the 19th century structure include some neogothic and neoclassic elements. The terrace before the facade holds the miraculous Virgin of Candelaria that is believed to have outgrown its former niche. The archwindows are wide and tall and there is a minimal usage of rose windows, unlike its neighboring churches. The main entrance is flanked by flights of stairs leading to the miraculous Virgin's terrace where Pope John Paul II stood and faced hundreds or perhaps thousands of devotees from all over the region, when he visited the Philippines in 1981.
Though war and calamities took away the cathedral’s once magnificent beauty, it is currently being restored at least to bring back its former glory as an icon of art and architecture. The interior, once critiqued by many, is now amongst the most beautiful in the country. The paintings on its vaulted ceiling would remind you of artistically decorated churches in latin america and Spain and its baroque retablos are definitely the most well decorated just like the ones at the Feminist Neogothic church of Santa Ana in Molo.

The Magic of Antique

Serene, Quiet and Peaceful. the homely atmosphere of Antique Province always shares a certain oneness with that of Iloilo. Though these two provinces are separated by the great northern mountains, their very culture are very similar in almost every sense.

Antique is known for it's historical centres like Hamtic and its magnificent beaches. It is a home of the great Ilonggo History. The birthplace of one of the most popular Ilonggo Epics. Tourists will adore Antique's great mountains where adventures quietly await thrillseekers while it's outlying islands are for those who are searching for peace and serenity. Antique is indeed a province of wonders, just like Iloilo, it's a place one tourist must visit and unravel!

Heritage Houses of Arevalo

Arevalo is known as Iloilo city's garden district and the province's flower capital. It's old Spanish name was 'Villa Rica de Arevalo' which means that it is amongst the most important Hispanic settlements in the country. Here also lies the third oldest Sto. Niño in the Philippines, one of the city's oldest traditional weaving centres and many of the city's last well preserved colonial houses.
These colonial houses are fine examples of a typical hispanic house or 'Bahay na Bato' wherein the lower half is built of hewn stone or baked bricks while the upper part is built of strong wood.
A trip to Arevalo will not only make you adore it's flower filled streets or it's notable seaside restaurants but in some way, it will make you realize that a 'Once a upon a time' drama did exist along it's peaceful and historic streets like the rest of the city themselves.

Krystalville Inland Resort at Janiuay

Ilonggos, like most filipinos, love celebrating special occasions at beaches, restaurants or inland resorts where they could have fun at pools or simply socialize with other people. However, to those who want to spend a relaxing day out all by themselves or with the company of their closest friends then why not travel up the town of Janiuay in the central part of the province, to a resort called 'Krystalville', which is simply 10-15 minutes away from the town itself. With a fully furnished bean-shaped pool, some well built thatched sheds where visitors could gather up and have their meals, and a social gathering area where friends can enjoy a good karaoke experience, tourists will simply have fun making good memories that they'll surely never forget.

Iloilo Paintings for Donations

Iloilo on Foot us currently looking for donors and advertisers who are supportive of the cause to promote Iloilo as one of the Philippines' best tourism destinations. To help promote Iloilo to the world, the webmaster encourages Ilonggos, Filipinos and other avid readers of this blog to help by donating.
BUT WAIT! There's a twist!
For every $50 or P2500 Donation, the management will send back a painting of Iloilo (since the webmaster is a well trained visual artist and painter as well) as a thanksgiving. The donor may also request what theme or subject of the painting he would love to recieve. The bigger the Donation, the bigger the painting. Your donations will help Iloilo Onfoot be on track and updated and so your donations, in exchange for a painting as a thanksgiving souvenir will remind you that you have been a vital part of this travel program.

If you are interested, leave a comment to this post or send an email at pacificleopard@yahoo.com...

Explore Iloilo On The Philippine Blog Awards '09

Explore Iloilo, the premier travel blog of Iloilo, is on it's way to the Philippine Blog Awards '09, an anual award giving body recognizing Filipino bloggers arround the world. Explore Iloilo has done so much in promoting Iloilo as travel destination and for such I will vote the blog for the category: "Blogger's Choice" special award. The manager and owner of Explore Iloilo is my good friend, Mr. Marcos Caratao Jr., who is also a known travel photographer in the entire province. He has worked well to promote Iloilo and blogging to Ilonggos. In fact, I believe that he is amongst the most successful Ilonggo bloggers in the country.
So if you're a blogger and if you're asking why vote ExploreIloilo, then go visit Explore Iloilo yourself and be captivated for this one travel blog showcases the artistic talents of one great blogger that has inspired Ilonggos to fly out into the blogosphere.
Vamos Marcos!!!
Vamos Explore Iloilo!!!

Valeria Street; Iloilo's Restaurant Avenue

Looking for a good place to eat or celebrate some important occasion? Then Valeria Street in Iloilo City is a perfect destination. Here, tourists and locals can get one of the best Ilonggo cuisines without spending too much. La Sallete Building, in front of SM Delgado is known for its restaurants like Ted's and Nandings both proud of their famed La Paz Batchoy. If Noodles and Soup doesn't fit you, then try Mang Inasal, a famous restaurant for the grilled chicken lovers.
Another breakthrough restaurant located in Valeria Street is Green Mango known for their desserts and a variety of mouth watery delicacies that will surely give you a reason to come back again and again and again.

Stories behind the beautiful Cabatuan Church

Considered as one of the most beautiful churches in the Philippines, the church of Cabatuan in the heart of Iloilo province is also amongst the most exemplary examples of Colonial architecture in the country.
What tourists should know about this church is that it is an example of an Earthquake Baroque Structure hidden the simplest details of Neoclassicism, making it a unique mixture colonial art and architecture.
Interiorly, a tourist will find the largest altar and the tallest stone retable in all of Iloilo and perhaps in the entire Visayan Islands. It also boasts its spacious baptistery that has an artistic neoclassic retable of it's own, a detail that is not common with churches in the region.
Inside, before the huge stone retable, is the replica of the 'Arc of the Covenant', an important artifact in Christian History and is also known for it's beautiful collection of stained glass windows. The Santo Niño de Cabatuan like the Santo Niño de Santa Barbara are known for their unique appearance. The Santo Niño inspired the creation of newer versions built for an empty retable in Bacolor Church in Pampanga.
So why should tourist add this remarkable heritage destination to their itenary? Well, I guess it's because it is obviously something they shouldn't miss while in Iloilo.

The Colonial Heritage of Molo

Molo, once a thriving colonial district in the coast of Iloilo City, is often referred as the 'Athens of the Region' for it is the hometown of many political leaders in our country. Molo holds a rich heritage that will interest tourist and travelers like for instance, the magnificent Molo Church, known to many as the church of women.
However, If you're in Molo, it is advisible that you visit the town's heritage street that is Calle San Pedro where one of the historical Locsin mansions can be found. One of the heritage houses which dates back from the early 1800's was said to have housed the builders of the famous gothic church of the town.
The Pison house, another Spanish Era brick mansion, which is located in the same street can be remembered as one of the settings of an episode of "Maala-ala Mo kaya", a famous television show in the Philippines.
San Pedro Street in the heart of Molo is an interesting place to visit for traveling photographers who would want to capture what Iloilo City would have looked like centuries ago.