Author: iamjosemanuel

Hi. I am Joseph Emmanuel E. Lim, a Licensed Architect by profession and an avid traveler by heart. My passion for travel has been greatly influenced by the profession that I a practice. Since my college days, I always had this fondness of the old world, of historic places, of ancient civilizations, and the intrigues and mysteries that come with it. As a traveler, I consider myself a typical backpacker. My trips are low-cost and mostly solo, independent travel. I started my fondness for backpacking the year 2013, when I explored Southeast Asia for 30 days. Since then, It has become my goal to travel at least once a year, to a foreign city/country that I have never been before. I also made a goal to complete the 7 wonders of the world before I reach 40 years of age. But then, the pandemic came. So I might have to extend my timeline for that. As a backpacker, I prefer small and laid-back towns over party destinations. I like waking up early for a stroll around public market and see how foreign communities start up their day. As of today, I have been to 46 UN recognized countries.

5 Easy Ways to Upgrade Your Home Entertainment Without Breaking the Bank

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Rainy weekends have become the perfect excuse to stay in, gather around the TV, and enjoy quality time with family. Whether it’s streaming the latest blockbuster, binge-watching a favorite K-drama, or playing online games together, creating a great entertainment experience at home has become more accessible than ever.

Through PLDT Home’s partnership with Samsung, the Global No.1 TV and Soundbar brand, subscribers can enjoy exclusive discounts on selected Samsung TVs and entertainment devices, making it easier to build a smarter and more immersive entertainment space at home.

Here are five simple ways to elevate your home entertainment without overspending.
Choose a bigger screen for shared entertainment
Whether it’s the latest blockbuster, a K-drama binge, or a championship game, a larger display transforms your overall viewing experience. Rather than upgrading every gadget at home, investing in one quality smart TV creates better shared experiences for the whole family.

Thanks to advancements in Samsung’s Mini LED and OLED technology, with screen sizes ranging from 50 to 100 inches, cinema-quality visuals are now within reach at home. Pair them with a reliable fiber connection to stream high-quality 4K content smoothly, without interruptions or buffering.

Bring cinema-quality sound into your living room
Great visuals deserve equally impressive sound. A quality soundbar instantly enhances movies, concerts, sports, and even everyday streaming with richer, more immersive audio, without the complexity of a full home theater system. With Samsung’s Q-Symphony, compatible Samsung TVs and soundbars work together to deliver a more immersive, room-filling sound experience by combining the speakers of both devices. With PLDT Home’s promo, investing in a good sound system becomes easier and more budget friendly.

Maximize your streaming experience with reliable fiber internet
Even the best TV deserves a fast and reliable internet connection.

Today’s smart TVs support features such as Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM), high refresh rates, and ultra-high-definition streaming. Samsung Smart TVs also come with Samsung TV Plus, giving users access to a variety of free live and on-demand entertainment without the need for a separate subscription. A reliable fiber connection ensures smooth 4K streaming, uninterrupted online gaming, and seamless video calls—all happening simultaneously in one household.

Build your entertainment setup over time
Building your dream entertainment space at home doesn’t have to happen all at once.

Start with the essentials: a dependable fiber connection and a smart TV. As your needs grow, add a soundbar or smart home accessories as your budget permits.

You don’t have to buy everything at once to enjoy a premium viewing experience. Exclusive bundles and promotions from PLDT Home can also help you save as you expand your setup.

Choose bundles that offer greater value
The smartest way to upgrade your home entertainment isn’t buying multiple devices but choosing bundled products so you can get more by spending less.

Now is the perfect time to make the smart choice with PLDT Home’s limited-time deal with Samsung. Get more value from your internet subscription with the new PLDT Home Fiber Unli All plan and enjoy up to 15% off plus ₱2,000 worth of stackable vouchers when you purchase select Samsung TVs. Plus, customers who pay via Home Credit can enjoy an additional 5% off their purchase.

Another good thing is that this deal goes beyond TV and entertainment.

With the PLDT Home Fiber Unli All 1499 plan, subscribers enjoy essential home and mobile connectivity plus entertainment content in one convenient subscription. Instead of managing separate services and subscriptions for different needs, PLDT Home Fiber Unli All bundles fiber internet together with Smart mobile data, unlimited landline calls, Cignal TV, and HBO Max. Customers enjoy all these plus exclusive savings on Samsung TVs that can elevate their home entertainment experience.

A smarter home upgrade isn’t just about having the biggest screen or the latest device. It’s about choosing the right combination of connectivity and entertainment to make everyday moments at home better.

This September, make the smart choice and upgrade your home entertainment with Samsung and PLDT Home Fiber Unli All 1499. Visit http://www.pldthome.com/samsung-entertainment-deals.

4 Days D.I.Y. Trip to Istanbul,Türkiye

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Istanbul was the last stop of my Silk Road 2026 trip (Central Asia – Moscow – Caucasus Region). Blogs for each city I visited are all posted on the main page (click here).

Highlights of Istanbul. From Tbilisi,Georgia, I flew to Istanbul via Turkish Airlines, which was my first time with the brand. I have always been curious of TK Air. And indeed, the airline did not disappoint. Entertainment was updated with latest Hollywood hits. And the meal was great. They served beef patty in curry sauce and sides. The warm bread was a plus for me. Not all airlines heat the bread prior to serving. Complimentary beverages and wine were also offered on board.

Filipinos need to secure visa to enter Türkiye. However, Filipino passport holders with a valid US, UK, or Schengen visa get the privilege to apply for an E-Visa instead, which was super easy. I only prepared a scanned copy of my passport bio page, a jpeg file of my latest passport sized photo, and a scanned copy of my valid US visa. After payment, I got my approved E-visa within one hour. Posting below some screenshots of my E-visa application for your reference. Take note of the website address below, as there are a lot of pop-up agency sites that offer E-visa services at an added cost.

Getting around the City. The city is overwhelmingly big. I had four full days in Istanbul, and I decided to allot one day per neighborhood that I wanted to visit.

  • Sultanahmet, The old/historic district and Eminonu (Harbor front)
  • Taksim and Galata – vibrant local vibe. Shopping and affordable hotels
  • Karakoy (Harbor front) and Kadikoy (markets and the peaceful seaside neighborhood)
  • Balat – Boho-historic walking quarters. Local artists’ hub.

Getting around Istanbul is relatively easy with the help of Yandex Map and 2Gis App for real time bus and train schedule. These are free apps that I downloaded prior to arrival.

From the Airport, the HAVAIST BUS directly takes you to the city center. Bus ride costs 470 Lira (600 Php). The Bus station is located at the basement of IST Airport. I also purchased an ISTANBULKART to go cashless on transportation fare within the city(Bus/Metro/Ferry). I loaded 1000 Lira (1,200 Php) to the Kart, since every bus/train/Ferry ride in Istanbul costs 46 Lira at least.

English is widely spoken all around Istanbul. Communication was never an issue.

Day 1: Sultanahmet (Old City) – Best for first-time visitors aiming to see major landmarks like the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the palace. Sultanahmet is rich in imperial history, though highly touristic and gets really crowded and the restaurants are generally pricey.

First thing I noticed upon arrival in Istanbul are the street cats that are well fed by the community. Turkish love cats. Dogs are a rare sight in Istanbul.

The Blue Mosque, built around 16th Century. The mosque is open for all visiting tourists.

Hagia Sophia Mosque – constructed in the 6th century as an Eastern Roman Christian basilica. Later during the Ottoman conquest in 1453, the building was turned into a mosque under Sultan Mehmed II. The mosque was undergoing major restorations the time I visited. I did not bother going inside na.

Note: There is an original Egyptian Obelisk displayed at the park near the mosque. This was seized by conquerors from its origin in Egypt during the early days. It was never returned by Turkey upto today.

Just a few blocks from the mosques, the Grand Bazaar, is one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world, serving Istanbul for over 500 years.

In Sultanhamet, you’ll also pass by universities and markets that boast local art works and vintage collections. I made some souvenir purchases here. Their magnet designs are nowhere else to be found. This book market, I found just at the back of the Grand Bazaar.

Turkish sweets/dessert shops almost always offer free taste of their products. In Sultanhamet, you’ll see a lot of these stores, but are quite expensive. Better reserve your shopping cash for Kadikoy and Balat neighborhood, which I visited on my 3rd and 4th day.

Stopped by T-Cafe for their famous Tiramisu. This cafe is relatively inexpensive, despite operating along the touristic street near the mosques.

After Sultanhamet, ended the day at Eminonu Harbor where I took a sunset cruising boat along the Bosphorus strait.

The Yeni Mosque is a popular landmark in the area. Just behind the Yeni is the Egyptian (Spice) Bazaar. It is also a popular spot in Eminonu while waiting for the cruise.

The sunset cruise offers a good view of various neighborhoods in Istanbul. Ferry rides are among the primary transportation mode in Istanbul, since the city sits on both banks of the Bosphorus strait. The one hour cruise cost me 240 Lira (300 Php).

Day 2: Galata and Taksim (my Neighborhood in Istanbul). I chose Taksim area as my place of stay since the Havaist bus station is situated here, near the park/square. In addition, this neighborhood is mainly a commercial and residential area for locals, and prices here are lower compared to Sultanahmet.

Day 2 was actually a chill-day Sunday where I did not have any specific itinerary in mind. I just went for casual lunch, streetside doners and coffee to seal the day.

And yes, grilled corn is a thing in Istanbul.

The Galata Tower is another popular landmark in Istanbul. The tower is a 14th-century medieval stone watchtower that stands 67 meters tall and offers a 360-degree panoramic observation deck. Just beside the tower, you’ll find the famous Saltbae Burger.

The neighborhood has this artsy vibe with a lot of interesting vintage themed shops and cafes around. I purchased a pair of locally made leather driving shoes in this area.

Day 3 : Karakoy (Harbor front) and Kadikoy (seaside market)

Karakoy – A charming waterfront neighborhood and harbor, which is a walking distance from Taksim where I stayed. Took the ferry from here to reach Kadikoy, which is situation at the opposite side of the strait.

Kadikoy is located on the Asian side of Istanbul across the strait. It is a 20 minutes ferry ride from Karakoy. Kadikoy is noted as the cheaper area of Istanbul where you can find fish markets and local eateries (lokantasi). The area is not really in the tourists’ loop.

My main goal in Kadikoy was to find the mackerel fish doner, which is popular in the area. Best paired with Coca-Cola. Coke in glass bottle is still a thing in Istanbul.

I found Colombia Cafe in Kadikoy, which offers a great panoramic view from its 8th floor. I basically spent most of my high noon here to avoid the heat. The rest of the day was spent roaming around the local neighborhood and ate cheap local pilaf meal, chips and icecream.

Day 4: Balat – The Boho-historic walking quarters. Local artists’ hub.

Started the day with a hefty meal that I forced myself to finish since the serving sizes are like good for 2. The spaghetti looked delicious btw. These ready-made meals are from casual/affordable eateries, like Karinderia a set up. In Istanbul, they call it Lokantasi. If you want to save on dining, google a lokantasi nearby. Meals cost between 200 to 400 Lira.

Balat is a down-to-earth neighborhood of narrow cobbled streets and colorful houses, where hip cafes and local art galleries sit next to old-school neighborhood stores. Sobrang chill ng area na ito. Should you wish to buy unique souvenirs like art pieces, ceramics and silk, you’ll find these in Balat at a relatively lower price compared to the touristy Sultanahmet.

Ended the day with a hefty Kebab meal from a casual resto just outside my hostel. Probably the best meal I had in Istanbul. Sealed the day with a cup of Juan Valdez Coffee, which is a popular coffee chain in South America. They already have a branch in Istanbul.

Where I stayed: Taksim Green House Hostel Istanbul. Highly recommended for its large rooms, comfortable bed and in-room shower. The hostel is tucked in the quiet side of Taksim, a few minutes walk to the Havaist Bus stop to the airport and the Taksim Metro Station. The neighborhood is also quite decent, peaceful and photogenic.

A night at Green House Hostel costs around 1200 Php, booked through agoda.

If you noticed, I skipped on museums and galleries. Istanbul was the last stop of my 30 days trip (Central Asia, Moscow & Caucasus), and I honestly felt a fatigue for historical sites at this time. So I made the most of my remaining vacation days by leisurely exploring neighborhood, exploring local food and coffee. No rush. Just absorbing as much local vibe as I can. Afterall, vacations are supposed to be just that. Relaxed, diba? =)

10th Century Monasteries in Armenia

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While in Tbilisi Georgia, I booked a short day trip to see the 10th Century monasteries in Armenia, which is just 1.5 hours drive. I booked a joiners tour via Getyourguide.com. Here are some of the highlights.

Imagine walking through the hallways of an ancient church that is more than 1000 years old. Akhtala Monastery– built during the 10th century, has remain unchanged through the years. The church houses the original and most well preserved mural art from the its era.

Note: Armenia is recognized as the first nation in the world to adopt Christianity as its official state religion in 301 AD.

The murals of Akhtala Monastery are one of the best representations of Byzantine art. New and Old Testaments scenes as well as various saints including Saint Gregory the Illuminator are depicted on the murals.

Haghpat Monastery, built between 10th to 13th Century, famous for its location that is perched on top of the mountain. The grounds of this monasteries are actual graves of people from the ancient times.

The holes on the floor are 10th century wineries. The monks age wine in big clay jars buried below the ground. Haghpat Monastery is a Unesco World Heritage protected site.

Sanahin Monastery, another Unesco world heritage site in Armenia. Also built in the 10th Century. This one is located at the center of an ancient town.

Included with the day tour was a hefty lunch, hosted by a local family in Hagpat, Armenia. Armenian food is basically similar to Georgian and Turkish. One memorable dish is the dolmah, which is seasoned lamb meat, wrapped and steamed in grape leaves.

Our ride for the day tour was a comfi white Mercedes Benz. I booked this joiners tour through Getyourguide.com for around 75USD, All inclusive – 9 hours guided tour to Northern Armenia. Armenia is just around 1.5 hours from Tbilisi, Georgia.

Filipinos need an E-visa to enter Armenia. Application was pretty straightforward, and costs only 8 USD. The thing is you can only apply for E-visa 30 days prior to your desired arrival date. Here are some screenshots of E-visa interface.

For Tbilisi,Georgia itinerary, check here.

Highlights of Tbilisi,Georgia

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Georgia is one of the countries that Filipinos can visit just by securing an easy E-visa prior to the trip; purely online application, no personal appearance at the embassy. Tourist E-visa costs 20 USD.

However, Philippine passport holders can enter Georgia visa-free, if they hold a valid visa or residence permit from specific countries like the US, UK, Canada, Schengen Area, or GCC countries. In my case, I presented at the Georgian Immigration my valid US and Japan Visa. I also presented a printed copy of my hostel booking, fly out ticket, as well as my travel insurance (which I booked last minute with the help of my sister). Mandatory Travel Insurance is strictly required when entering Georgia, with a minimum of $30,000 in health coverage. I was able to enter Georgia visa-free twice. First was at the airport, second was at the land border crossing from Armenia. Same documents were presented. Visa-free entry however took a little more time, since they had to validate my presented US Visa via another program. At the land border, my passport validation took around 20 minutes at least. If you have extra 20 USD, I highly suggest securing an e-visa for smoother border crossings.

I flew to Gergia via Azerbaijan Airline, with a 4 hours layover at Baku International Airport (Azerbaijan). Their airport interior is quite sleek and classy. Sosyal, with all the ambient lights and clean-neutral palate. Azerbaijan Airline is also commendable for providing tasty meals and a 10 kg carry on bag allowance.

I was also able to use the lounge at Baku Airport, and was able to get a decent Azerbaijani meal at 3 AM. Thanks to my Eastwest Bank Visa Card privilege. haha

Upon arrival in Tbilisi, Georgia, the first thing I appreciated was the vibrant food scene. I came from Moscow before Tbilisi. And in all honestly, food there was far from the best. Georgian meals are better, as they have rice. I love rice. Choz. And also, Georgia is generally cheaper, especially if you find yourself some Family-Kitchen at random streets. These kitchens are like local eateries/karinderia, where every dishes are pre-cooked. You can just pick what you like.

Among my favourite was the Badrijani Nigvzit, which features thinly sliced, fried or grilled eggplant rolled around a rich, spiced walnut and garlic paste. I also liked the Beef chirbuli dish of eggs and beef poached in a spiced tomato, onion, and walnut sauce (The red sauce on a skilled).

Georgians take breakfast seriously. Here’s one of the best meals I had. This set includes 3 fruit jams, 3 type of cheese, cold cuts, fried rolls, egg, tomato salad and unlimited shotis puri (bread). I had this at a restaurant in Old Quarters in Tbilisi known as the “Friendly Corner”. They area among the few that opens early.

Highlights of Tbilisi, Georgia:

My trip to Tbilisi was quite free and chill. I stayed at the Old quarters for the vibe. I was also able to book two tours during my stay, since packages were surprisingly affordable. I was able to book a day tour to Mtskheta for only 850 Pesos. Mtskheta is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that served as the ancient capital of Georgia. This black Mercedes Benz below was our ride.

Svetitskhoveli Cathedral. Originally built in the 4th century, the present Svetitskhoveli Cathedral was constructed on top of the original church foundation between 1010 and 1029 (by the architect Arsukidze). It was also mentioned that the architect’s hands were cut of after the construction, by order of the king, so that the cathedral design shall never be replicated.

Regarded as the holiest place in Georgia, Svetitskhoveli is recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, and is regarded as the holiest place in Georgia, due to a recorded holy relic, the shroud of Jesus at the time of the crucifixion, that was believed to be buried beneath the structure.

Note: Georgia is one of the oldest Christian nations in the world, having officially adopted Christianity as its state religion in the early 4th century (around 326–337 CE).

Jvari Monastery is a sixth-century Georgian Orthodox monastery. Jvari is a rare case of an Early Medieval Georgian church that has survived to the present day almost unchanged. Quite rainy when we visited.

The Holy Trinity Cathedral of Tbilisi. The main cathedral of the Georgian Orthodox Church and a powerful symbol of the nation’s post-Soviet spiritual and cultural revival. The cathedral sits on top of an elevated ground in the middle of Tbilisi Old Quarters.

Getting around was quite easy. There are assigned modern buses that connect the airport to the metro trains and key points in the city. I actually used my Gcash Visa Card to pay for all my bus and train rides. Yes! Contactless payment na sila. And similar to Central Asia, Yandex Apps are your best friends in Tbilisi.

The Mother of Georgia Statue. Perched high above Old Tbilisi near the Narikala Fortress, the monument offers overlooking view of the city, and is easily accessible via a short cable car ride from Rike Park or by a scenic walking path along the old quarters.

When choosing an area to stay, The Old Quarters of Tbilisi I believe is the best option. Georgians also have public baths where tourists can also use for a fee. I was able to experience this at No.5 Bathhouse shown in photo below. The place can easily be found and is a walking distance from the famous bridge of peace.

Here’s me enjoying Khachapuri and wine at the old quarters. Khachapuri is a Georgian dish of cheese-filled bread. The bread filled in the center with a mixture different kinds of cheese and a soft egg at the center. You’re supposed to tear a portion of the bread and dip in the warm cheese and egg mixture.

Note: Georgia is one of the oldest wine-producing countries in the world. The fertile valleys of Georgia were home to grapevine cultivation and neolithic wine production for at least 8000 years. Wine is cheap in Georgia.

Another thing that I enjoyed in the old quarters was this milk ice cream-filled chimney cake, crusted with cinnamon and sugar.

Where I stayed: Hostel Era, but I wouldn’t recommend it. there are better options elsewhere. The view from the toilet is nice though.

Tashkent: Capital City of Uzbekistan

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Tashkent is the capital and largest city of Uzbekistan, as well as the most populous city in Central Asia with over 3.1 million people. The city is more than 2,000 years old, having started as an ancient Silk Road trading stop during the time. But unlike the well-preserved neighboring historic cities of Samarkand and Bukhara, Tashkent underwent major Soviet-style redesigning during the 60s/70s when Uzbekistan was under Russian rule. Tashkent today is a buzzling metropolis, offering a balance of Uzbek traditions, and the glitz and conveniences of the modern day world.

I only had one full day in Tashkent since I prioritized historic cities – Samarkand and Bukhara. But given the chance, I am definitely going back and shall purposely stay longer in the capital city.

Highlights of Tashkent:

The Hazrati Imam complex: an architectural monument dating from the 16th to 20th centuries. The complex today functions as a museum, and houses the famous Uthman Qur’an (Osman Koran)—believed to be one of the oldest original 7th-century Qur’an manuscripts in the world.

The Center of Islamic Civilization: a massive museum and research complex adjacent to the Hazrati Imam complex. I was awed when I first set foot on these grounds for its grandeur and how intricately made the mosaic wall tiles are. Inaugurated just this year 2026, this architectural icon is a masterpiece made by the hands of modern day Uzbek people.

Chorsu Bazaar: one of the most famous markets in Uzbekistan. A UNESCO World Heritage site, access is completely free. The bazaar is famous for its blue dome that can be seen for miles around. The blue dome was built around 1980s by the Soviet administration, though the market site itself has a history spanning over 2,000 years at the crossroads of ancient Silk Road routes.

Chorsu Bazaar houses large selections of Arabic spices, dried fruits and tea, as well as traditional weaving products and ceramic wares. It is also in Chorsu where I first saw carrots that are yellow. haha

Chorsu is also houses a good number of options for local food dining. The best meal I had in Tashkent was this kebab shop. I ordered the Dolma, which is basically bellpepper stuffed with rice and minced meat, served in paprika-loaded broth.

Samsas (Meat filled bread) and the traditional plov dish.

Hotel Uzbekistan: an iconic 4-star, Soviet-era brutalist landmark located at the center of Tashkent, built 1974. The high-rise structure is curved to resemble an open book facing Amir Temur Square.

I spent the rest of the afternoon here with coffee while enjoying the view of Tashkent city center from the vintage cafe at the 17th floor.

Where I stayed in Tashkent: Doo Hostel (Highly Recommended). This came as a surprise for me, because I never expected it to be located inside an upscale residential/commercial complex (Like Serendra in BGC).

An entrance to the Alisher Navoiy Metro Station is located within the complex. The complex is also attached to the main park and the Tashkent City mall. How convenient is that? Alisher Navoiy btw is named the most beautiful train station, with its white, dome shaped ceiling, embellished with mosaic tiles.

Filipinos are required to get Uzbekistan E-visa prior to the trip. Details on securing the e-visa are posted here.

Jollibee and DreamWorks team up for global ‘Forgotten Island’ campaign celebrating friendship and Filipino culture

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Jollibee and DreamWorks Animation are teaming up for a global partnership tied to the worldwide theatrical release of Forgotten Island, a new original animated feature that celebrates friendship, family, and Filipino-inspired storytelling.
The collaboration brings together DreamWorks, the studio behind globally recognized films including Shrek, How to Train Your Dragon, and The Wild Robot, and Jollibee, the beloved Filipino restaurant brand that makes your favorite Chickenjoy, Yumburger, Jolly Spaghetti and Burger Steak.
The partnership also brings together shared themes of friendship and togetherness.

Forgotten Island draws inspiration from Filipino mythology and stories passed down through Filipino families, while Jollibee has long brought people together through shared meals and everyday moments of joy. In the Philippines, the collaboration offers fans an opportunity to experience the film’s themes and Filipino cultural elements through Jollibee.
At the heart of Forgotten Island, from the filmmakers of Puss in Boots: The Last Wish, are lifelong best friends Jo and Raissa, voiced by Grammy and Academy Award winner H.E.R. and Filipino actress Liza Soberano. The story follows the two friends as they discover a mysterious portal leading to Nakali, a magical island inhabited by mythical creatures inspired by stories from their Filipino families.
 
Their adventure takes a turn when they discover that returning home comes at the cost of losing their memories of each other. Joined by a group of allies, Jo and Raissa must navigate the challenges of Nakali while finding a way to preserve their friendship. 
The film features an international voice cast that includes Dave Franco, Lea Salonga, Jenny Slate, Manny Jacinto, Dolly de Leon, Jo Koy, and Ronny Chieng, bringing together global talent and Filipino voices in a story rooted in Filipino-inspired mythology. 


“At Jollibee, we’ve always believed that some of life’s best memories are made around the dining table. Forgotten Island is a beautiful and moving story that reminds us of the power and importance of friendship, something that has always been at the heart of our brand,” said Dorothy Ching, vice president for marketing of Jollibee Philippines. “Through this partnership with DreamWorks, we’re excited to give Filipinos another meaningful way to celebrate friendship, create lasting memories, and share the joy of eating together.” 


To bring the partnership closer to Filipino fans, Jollibee Philippines will introduce the limited-time Forgotten Island Adventure Bundle launching September 16 in Metro Manila and September 23 in all other regions, available until October 31 at participating stores nationwide.


The Adventure Bundle includes Jollibee’s 1-pc. Chickenjoy with rice and Pineapple Quencher, the new Peach Mango Pie à la Mode with Vanilla Soft Serve, Jollibee’s Peach Mango Pie with Chocolate Sauce, and an exclusive Forgotten Island Friendship Charm Bracelet. The bundle is priced at ₱389.


Inspired by the film, the exclusive Friendship Charm Bracelet serves as a collectible that fans can take home as a memento of the partnership and the friendships celebrated in Forgotten Island.
The Forgotten Island Adventure Bundle will be available through dine-in, takeout, and drive-thru, while supplies last.
Forgotten Island, distributed by Universal Pictures, opens in Philippine cinemas on September 23, 2026.

About Jollibee

Jollibee is a global restaurant brand best known for its world-famous Chickenjoy fried chicken. It was voted No. 1 Best Fast Food Fried Chicken in the U.S. in USA TODAY’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards for three consecutive years and garnered multiple acclaims in various markets.  It is the #1 QSR in the Philippines, Vietnam, and Brunei.  Guided by its purpose to serve great-tasting food and bring the joy of eating to everyone, Jollibee continues to bring people together through joyful dining experiences across more than 1,800 stores in 16 countries. Jollibee is the flagship brand of Jollibee Group, one of the fastest-growing restaurant companies in the world.
  
About DreamWorks Animation’s Forgotten Island
Your best friendship is worth fighting for.
DreamWorks Animation, the studio that brought you unforgettable bonds between a boy and a dragon in How to Train Your Dragon, an ogre and a donkey in Shrek, and a robot and a gosling in The Wild Robot, now welcomes a dazzling and emotional story about two lifelong best friends who must come together before they drift apart in Forgotten Island.
The new original film is written and directed by Academy Award® nominee Joel Crawford and Januel Mercado and is produced by Academy Award® nominee Mark Swift, the filmmaking team behind Puss in Boots: The Last Wish.
Grammy and Academy Award® winning supernova H.E.R. and Liza Soberano (Lisa Frankenstein, Alone/Together) star as high school graduates Jo and Raissa, who have been best friends since grade school but are now about to embark on separate life paths.
While celebrating their last night together, Jo and Raissa stumble upon a mysterious portal that transports them to the fantastical island of Nakali, packed with magical and mythological creatures they grew up hearing stories about from their Filipino families. 
 
Some of these figures will become friends, some foes. Joined by well-meaning-but- hapless weredog Raww (Dave Franco) and a small-but-mighty pack of pals, Jo and Raissa must face The Dreaded Manananggal (Tony winning icon Lea Salonga), the most feared creature on the island. When they discover that the memories of their entire friendship are the price for returning home, Jo and Raissa will race to find a way to leave the island before they forget each other forever.
The film’s all-star voice cast also includes Emmy nominee Jenny Slate (Marcel the Shell with Shoes On, Dying for Sex), Manny Jacinto (The Good Place, Top Gun: Maverick), BAFTA nominee Dolly de Leon (Triangle of Sadness, Ghostlight), global comedy superstar Jo Koy (Haunted Mansion, Jo Koy: Live from Brooklyn) and Emmy winner Ronny Chieng (The Daily Show, M3GAN). 
DreamWorks Animation’s Forgotten Island is distributed by Universal Pictures.
 
About DreamWorks Animation
DreamWorks Animation, a division of the Universal Filmed Entertainment Group, within NBCUniversal, a subsidiary of Comcast Corporation, is a global family entertainment company with feature film and television brands. DreamWorks’ feature heritage includes many of the world’s most acclaimed films and beloved franchises, including Shrek, Puss in Boots, Kung Fu Panda, How to Train Your Dragon, Trolls, The Boss Baby, Madagascar, The Bad Guys, Gabby’s Dollhouse and The Wild Robot. Collectively, these theatrical film properties have grossed more than $17 billion worldwide. DreamWorks Animation’s television studio is one of the world’s leading producers of high-quality, animated family programming, reaching consumers in more than 190 countries with a diverse array of original streaming series and films. The company’s deep portfolio of intellectual property is supported by a robust, worldwide licensing and consumer products practice, as well as award-winning brand experiences through Universal Destinations & Experiences theme parks, live entertainment and more.
 
About Universal Pictures
Universal Pictures is a division of Universal Studios (www.universalstudios.com). Universal Studios is part of NBCUniversal. NBCUniversal is one of the world’s leading media and entertainment companies in the development, production and marketing of entertainment, news and information to a global audience.  NBCUniversal owns and operates a valuable portfolio of news and entertainment networks, a premier motion picture company, significant television production operations, a leading television stations group and world-renowned theme parks.  NBCUniversal is a subsidiary of Comcast Corporation.
 

15 Days DIY Central Asia Itinerary

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Here’s how I did my 15 days travel covering 6 cities in Central Asia.

Almaty,Kazakhstan > Bishkek,Kyrgyzstan > Tashkent,Uzbekistan > Samarkand,Uzbekistan > Panjakent,Tajikistan > Bukhara, Uzbekistan . Costing is posted at the end of the article.

Day 1: I flew to Almaty,Kazakhstan via China Eastern Airlines from Manila. Flight was pretty straightforward. We left Manila at 8 am (around 4 hours), with a quick 2.5 hours layover in Shanghai. Then to Almaty (around 6 hours). I was already in Kazakhstan at around 7 pm, maliwanag pa. Sunset at Central Asia is around 8pm. This flight was not the cheapest option at 22k one way with baggage, but I chose this for the convenient flight time. I usually prefer to arrive na medyo may araw pa. That way, I feel safer to take public transportation to the city center upon arrival. I also booked late, like around 60 days prior, which justifies the ticket cost.

Day 2, 3 and 4 were spent around Almaty. The lakes and canyons tour was the highlight of this leg, but was super tiring, 16 hours total. Detailed Almaty tour is posted on this link.

Kazakhstan is visa free for Filipinos.

Where I stayed in Almaty: Hostel Q Almaty. Mura lang, nasa 700 Pesos per night. Bed and sheets were pretty comfi and malaki ang kwarto, which gave them very good ratings online. Satisfactory, yes. But if I return to Almaty, I’d probably choose hostels that are nearer to the Panfilov Park or Dostyk Avenue.

Day 5, 6 and 7: Bishkek City, Kyrgyzstan, which iz 4 hours lang from Almaty,Kazakhstan by public bus, for less than 10 USD. Details on the bus ride are shared on my article on Bishkek, as well as on my tiktok link here.

Filipinos need E-visa to enter Kyrgyzstan. E-visa details, as well as Bishkek City sample itinerary are posted on this link.

Where I stayed in Bishkek: Koisha Hotel. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED. Very home and conducive for rest or a remote work. Just a few minutes walk to the popular Osh Bazaar, which is the center of trade and commune of Bishkek. Osh Bazaar has the most spices, dried nuts, berries and tea leaves that I’ve seen in Central Asia.

On day 7, I took the afternoon flight to Tashkent,Uzbekistan. Bishkek to Tashkent can also be done by bus+train combo, but it takes so much time since dadaan ulit ng Almaty. As such, I opted to take an hour flight with Uzbekistan Airways. Flights between Central Asian cities are relatively inexpensive.

Day 8 & 9, I spent in Tashkent, the modern metropolis and capital city of Uzbekistan. I actually think there’s so much to do here; I just lacked time. But given the chance, I am definitely revisiting this city.

Filipinos need an E-visa to enter Uzbekistan. Details are posted on this link.

Where I stayed in Tashkent: Doo Hostel (Highly Recommended). This came as a surprise for me, because I never expected it to be located inside an upscale residential/commercial complex (Like Serendra in BGC).

An entrance to the Alisher Navoiy Metro Station is located within the complex. The complex is also attached to the main park and the Tashkent City mall. How convenient is that? Alisher Navoiy btw is named the most beautiful train station, with its white, dome shaped ceiling, embellished with mosaic tiles.

Day 10,11 and 12, I spent in Samarkand, with a side day trip to Panjakent, a city in the neighboring country of Tajikistan; Just 1.5 hours away. This is the reason why I applied for double entry E-visa, so I can enter Uzbekistan again.

Samarkand is a treasure trove of glorious Islamic Architecture, and has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2001. More of Samarkand are posted on this link.

Where I stayed in Samarkand: Imran and Bek Guesthouse, a nice family-operated accommodation, located just at the back of the Registan Square. Highly Recommended for its great location and it comes with a hefty breakfast.

Day 11: A quick DIY day trip to Panjakent, Tajikistan, which is just 1.5 hours away from Samarkand by public van (locals call it Damas. super cute mini van as shown on photo below). Fare is less than 5 USD round trip. Panjakent is just a small city surrounded by mountains, but its history also dates back to 5th Century BC and the years of the Silk Road.

Passport stamps are done at the border. Quite a long line with the locals, but visa-free for Filipinos.

Day 13, 14 and 15, I spent in Bukhara, which is another well-preserved, ancient city/fortress in Uzbekistan. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Centre, the old quarters is somewhat like an open air museum, with well preserved Islamic Architecture elements like the Poi-Kalyan minaret (call for prayer tower), mosques and mausoleums. Compared to Samarkand, Bukhara is more rugged and unpolished/rough on the edges, offering an old world feels. It is also relatively smaller. I stayed at a guesthouse in a community just outside of the old fortress. More details of Bukhara are posted here.

Where I stayed in Bukhara : Oximlon Guesthouse (Highly Recommended). Located in a community just outside of the old fortress. With the proximity, I got to explore the fortress during early morning, as well as late. Only 750 Pesos per night or an airconditioned private room with balcony, booked through Agoda. The family that runs the place were very nice, engaging and hospitable. They even shared lunch with me, which was a hefty bowl of plov. I will never forget that.

Note: Uzbekistan Immigration requires Hostel/Hotel registration slip upon exit. The hostels you stayed at will provide you this by email or whatsapp. This is as of September 2026.

Spending 15 days in 6 cities, here is my estimated travel cost. Feel free to use this as reference when planning your Central Asia trip, DIY.

Highlights of Moscow & How to Apply for Russian E-Visa (Yes po,Online Lang!)

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Sabi nga nila, it is common for Moscow to completely shift your perspective once you experience the city in person. Many people arrive expecting a strictly utilitarian, cold and bleak city thats stuck in the Soviet era, but instead find a vibrant, green and ultra-modern metropolis. Sobrang ganda ng Moscow.

If pangarap mo din marating ng Moscow, read on.

Securing a Russian E-visa for tourism. Yes po! Filipinos are qualified for E-visa; online application – NO Personal appearance at the embassy needed. Bongga diba?

This method is as of September 2026. Should you wish to apply in the future, it’s best to check embassy updates to confirm.

Getting a Russian E-visa for tourism is easy, but medyo tricky. Curious? Here are the conditions:

  • Visa is for tourism/holiday purpose. Though the website mentions business purposes as well, I highly suggest getting the full visa for this case, as you might also need to present documents during business transactions.
  • Maximum of 16 days stay only
  • Single Entry only
  • Entry/Exit at specific Russian cities only. Moscow and St. Petersburg are among them.
  • Apply no earlier than 86 days and no later than 4 calendar days before your expected date of entry.(Source:https://philippines.mid.ru/en/consular-services/)

Documents to prepare/submit online:

  • Scanned colored copy of valid passport Bio Page. Jpeg file size should not exceed 500kb
  • Passport sized photo w/ white background. Jpeg file size < 500kb.
  • A medical insurance policy with a minimum coverage amount €30,000 from Russian-accredited agencies. I got mine from GoingRus.com , purchased online for less than 1,000 Pesos.
  • No Invitations Needed: Hotel bookings, tourist vouchers, or formal invitation letters are NOT required.

See screenshots below for website reference. If you tried applying for US visa, the process is relatively similar. Create an account first, fill up the online form truthfully and upload the scanned files required. The Website will prompt if the file (size/format) is acceptable.

Once complete, a separate link (GKD Global) will be prompted for payment via VISA or Mastercard. GKD is based in the UAE, so AE-Dirham is the expected currency. VISA and Mastercard don’t work in Russia. That’s the reason why payment is done via third party.

Got the result via email after 5 working days.

When planning a Moscow trip, here are some additional points to consider:

Booking an Accommodation: Upon arrival in Moscow, a booked accommodation will be asked. Here’s the tricky part. Agoda does not work in Russia. So I booked my hostel via OSTROVOK Website. Site accepts Visa/Mastercard payments. Russian Immigration was pretty straightforward. No hideous questions. I just presented my e-visa. I was only asked where I’ll be staying.

Internet Connection is very limited in Russia. Ok here’s the thing, I purchased an E-sim via YESIM App(with positive reviews). But upon arriving, the E-sim did not work for the first 24 hours. Moreso, I installed a VPN but it did not work with my purchased E-sim. VPN only worked with my hostel wifi. Throughout my trip, I barely had access to the internet.

The Necessary Apps:

Yandex MAP – Download offline map of the city. Google does not work.

Yandex Translate – though expect very little effort from Russians to reply. Generally, they are not as conversant.

Yandex Go – if you plan to get a taxi ride, but I did not use this. Metro is very efficient, linking the airport to city center by a 45 mins. fast train, for only around 70 pesos.

Yandex Metro – Biggest help. Works offline.

Metro train in Moscow is one of the world’s most complex with over 300 stations in 15 lines. It just takes extra common sense because there are no English announcements, and the Russian pronunciations are quite difficult to comprehend. Example “Arbatskaya” Station is pronounced as “Arbatskie”. Riding the Moscow is already an adventure. Yes, overwhelming, but you’ll get the hang of it after successfully pulling off your first or second transfer.

Money Changing. Visa and Mastercard debit and credit do not work in Russia. Exchange your EU, USD or even Chinese Yuan and UAE Dirham at the airport. Rates are poor at the arrival hall (VKO Airport). Better go up the departure area at the upper floor.

Airport to City: VKO Airport is directly linked to city center by Metro train (Yellow Line). The trip takes around 45 minutes with 23 stops for only 90 Rubles ( 70 Pesos converted).

Note: There is also an aero express train from the airport that goes directly to Kievskaya Railway for a shorter time, which will then link you to trains that will take you other Russian cities.

Tip at the metro train station: Since you will be arriving at the city center possibly without data connection like what happened to me, then goodluck. You can also look for printed maps that are posted on all train stations. Metro train station is one challenge, finding the right exit is another. This is where the printed maps come in handy.

Detailed Moscow Itinerary will be posted on a separate blog.

Like Living Inside an Open-Air Museum – Bukhara,Uzbekistan

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Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Centre, walking the streets of Old Bukhara somewhat feels like living in an open air museum, with well-preserved Islamic Architecture elements, ancient minaret towers, mosque and mausoleums. Compared to Samarkand, Bukhara is more rugged and unpolished/rough on the edges, offering visitors an authentic old world feels. It is also relatively smaller, that the call for Islamic prayer 5x a day can be heard throughout the place. I stayed at a guesthouse in a community just outside of the old fortress, which actually elevated my Bukhara experience.

The old fortress of Bukhara with an overlooking view of the ancient city.

I arrived in Bukhara from Samarkand by regional train (3 hours). For public transport details, refer here.

Bukhara is known as a major Silk Road trading hub with over 2,000 years of history and a remarkably well-preserved medieval Islamic old town. By the 10th century, Bukhara emerged as a major center of Islamic scholarship and theology in Central Asia.

Standing at roughly 45 meters tall, the Kaylan Minaret (call for prayer tower) is Bukhara’s most recognizable Architectural treasure. The pillar is made of baked terracotta bricks adorned with intricate geometric patterns and bands of Islamic calligraphy. Our guide mentioned that when Genghis Khan conquered Bukhara in 1220, the Mongol invading forces destroyed much of the city. However, legend says he was so struck by the height and beauty of the Kalyan Minaret that he ordered it spared.

The Registan Square of Bukhara and its surrounding bazaars and carpet museum.

The Funny Man statue in Bukhara is revered as a monument for happiness and luck.

The unusual-looking Chor Minor in Bukhara. Its name translates to “Four Minarets,” referencing its four distinct, stubby towers topped with bright turquoise-blue ceramic domes

Adding to Bukhara’s old world vibe are vintage shops that is hard to miss. The shops sell trinkets from the Soviet Era, as well as antique metal works that are not cheap. Vintage shop even sells expired passport of deceased individuals from the Soviet Union.

Sunset in Bukhara. Best experienced from a nearby rooftop cafe

Stayed in Bukhara for 3 days, and I had quite a lot of time to try local restaurants and cafes. Dining and getting around is relatively inexpensive. Bukhara food is regional Central Asian, which is comparable to the dishes I had in Kyrgyztan. plov, lacman noodles, manti dumplings and nan.

I stayed at Oximlon Guesthouse, which is located in a community just outside of the old fortress. With the proximity, I got to explore the fortress during early morning, as well as late. Only 750 Pesos per night or an airconditioned private room booked through Agoda.

Architecture Appreciation – Samarkand,Uzbekistan

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Samarkand is one of the oldest, continuously inhabited cities in human history. Founded around the 8th to 7th century BC, Samarkand (known as Marakanda back then) has been documented in ancient Islamic and Greek texts as the silk road’s crossroad of trade, culture and exchange of knowledge, ideas and technology. The city has been under several conquerors and rebuilding throughout its history. Today, Samarkand is roughly 2,750 years old, and continues to tell its stories.

Samarkand has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2001, and is famous for the glorious Islamic Architecture, polished turquoise blue domes and perfectly restored mosaic tileworks on Mosques and Madrasa Building(school).

Being in Samarkand, and staying in the old city center, feels like living inside an open air museum. I purposely choose a guesthouse that is just at the back of the Registan Square. I spent 3 days walking between historic sites, visiting old bazaars and checking on local food options.

I arrived in Samarkand by Regional train (3 hours) from Tashkent, the Capital City. The city is fairly small, and is mainly centered on tourism. The train station is around 20 minutes by Yandex Taxi to the old city center where I stayed. Transportation and other UZ travel tips are posted here.

The most famous historic site in Samarkand is definitely the Registan Square, which has served the city since the 14th century. The square served as the seat of governance and the center for learning. The three towering buildings are “Madrasas” or can be considered as schools of the ancient times. The square at the center served as the place for community gathering and announcements, and is still being used today for the same function.

The Registan Square of Samarkand
This photo shows the condition of the madrasa’s facade from the early 20th Century, prior to restorations.
This is the Madrasa that we see today. Fully Restored.

Notice the intricate mosaic tile works done on the Madrasa’s facade. The Ceramic/glazed blue tiles are arranged in an alternating pattern with matte/colorless pieces to achieve a glimmering effect. Truly a work of art. Islamic Architecture in full glory.

The turquoise-blue colored Domes define Uzbekistan’s famous Islamic architecture, representing heaven, infinity, and peace. These Madrasas today serves as museums for ancient islamic documentations as well as artifacts, gold, bronze and chinaware from the time of the Silk Road.

The registan square illuminates beautifully at night. There is also a light show at around 8:30 PM every night.

Shah-i-Zinda is a historic necropolis/mausoleum complex and pilgrimage site in Samarkand, known for its striking avenue of brilliant blue mosaic tile facade and turquoise blue domes.

Walking through the corridors feels like travelling to ancient arabic times.

The detailed mosaic tile works of the mausoleums is worthy of all the praises. It was said that the Mongol conquerors of the 12th century has spared this complex from destruction, because they found it valuable and irreplaceable. some of the tile pieces are hand-carved individually.

Many tombs in Shai Zinda belong to the nobility from as early as the 11th Century. Yes, actual people were buried here, and are still honored by their family lineage today.

Bibi-Khanym Mosque It is considered a masterpiece of Uzbekistan. Built in the 15th Century, it was one of the largest mosques in the Islamic world during its time. Outside the mosque are other minor mausoleums, as well as the Siyob Bazaar/market which is also worth a visit. The mosque tends to be less crowded compared to the other sites. I spent some time here to rest and just feel the history around me.

The Registan Square, the Shai Zinda Mausoleum and Bibi Khanym Mosque are all connected by a straight walking street lined by trees, local shops and restaurants. Very convenient for tourists.