If you hate Manila traffic, try Jakarta. The sprawling capital of Indonesia is the region’s most crowded not to mention the busiest, reason why many tourists hightail this city for the big swells of Bali  or the temples of Yogyakarta.    But don’t fret, because if you’re a culture vulture and a foodie, Jakarta is a melting pot that will …

On a bright sunny day at the palm-fringed Kampung Melo, a sub-village of Liang Ndara on Flores, a group of Manggarai people clad in their traditional outfit welcomed us. The village chieftain spoke with the assigned head in our group and performed a modest ritual. Each of us was handed with hand-woven scarf and a local wine made from palm …

Sukhothai is heritage, yes. A name rooted in the Sanskrit words meaning “dawn of happiness”. This thriving city is where the past is always present, yet dauntless enough to embrace innovation. Sukhothai emerged as the first capital of Thailand for about 140 years; from 1238 to 1438. It was established by Thai governors, Khun Bang Klang Thao (Sri Inthrathit) and …

It was a balmy day, the sun is showering its morning blessing; dazzling in the gorgeously placid cerulean waters. I spin ecstatically while examining the bountiful marine life. Multi-hued fishes rendezvous around the gigantic coral plates that accentuate the seafloor. I see clown fish (Amphiprioninae) crown the swaying tentacles of anemones as damsel fish (Pomacentridae), parrotfish (Scaridae) and Moorish idols (Zanclus …