travel trap tourism

Too often we are presented with the same tourism photos showing off spectacular views of popular wonders of the world. 

Many do not even look for a different perspective - one that presents the true reality, which often is never as perfect or pretty. 

Taj Majal & its surroundings - Agra, India

Global tourism, as currently practiced, is underperforming, highly vulnerable and heading towards breakdown. Its operating model is no longer fit for purpose and needs to be replaced. ~ Managing Sustainable Tourism Growth, 2019

balanced & sustainable

It seems like I have been spending the majority of 2025 and 2026 ranting against the transactionality and commodification, decolonization and better care of human beings - whether we are on home ground or abroad. 

Touristification is a phenomenon that is happening worldwide - in both in the north and the south hemispheres or in both high traffic or far flung areas. 

a working balance between local & tourist needs

Born and raised in the Philippines, I moved to the US right after 9/11, and have returned for almost two years now - after being abroad for 20 years. 

This is a reflection on how touristification can transform a place you love and where once possessed a strong sense of belonging - when you are priced out of it. 

being human

“We are not people anymore. We have been products for a long time, and these are our labels” 

In a world of therapy-speak, Freya India argues we’ve lost the language of character - replacing quirks with conditions. But are we mentally ill, or just human? 

authentic & unapologetic

This is part of a deeper instinct in modern life to explain everything - psychologically, scientifically, evolutionarily. Everything about us is caused, categorized, and can be corrected. 

global fair food festival

The Terra Madre global Slow Food community cane together to celebrate the people, traditions, and food systems of the Asia and Pacific region - a five day, fully immersive, gastronomical convention to protect biodiversity and nourish our future food sources and systems.

#TMAP2025 at the Capitol Lagoon Park, Bacolod City, Negros Island

December 10 is designated Terra Madre Day around the world. From small gatherings to large community festivals - every Terra Madre Day event shines a light on the power of local food cultures and the importance of "Good, Clean and Fair food for all."

principles & politics

I am stealing the wise words of this impressive young warrior friend. 

On good days I take in our cityscape - its natural dips and rises, its mix of high rise buildings and tiny houses, its trees, streets and people, its cultures and politics - and my heart is filled to bursting with love and gratitude.

On bad days I take in our cityscape - its natural dips and rises, its mix of high rise buildings and tiny houses, its trees, streets and people, its cultures and politics - and my heart feels crushed by anger and frustration.

overflowing slum

Any city will do this to its residents on any day - but all city leaders owe it to their citizens to ensure there is more good than bad in our lives. Sadly, the world over, our leaders are failing to deliver - the outcome is our quality of life is now at risk. 

short & long tales

Short term tantrums of typical tyrants like Trump can seem insurmountable in their in-your-face tactics. Unless viewed through the long lens of human history here on earth. 

The past week the world celebrated - banned books week, world migratory bird day, and indigenous people's day. That's only the top three on our list of worthwhile pursuits to counter our frustrations. 

a strong stream of solar wind

When it feels like the weight of the world is tipping towards tragedy - remember what feeds the collective spirit. Direct attention, action, and aggression away from doomsday doldrums. 

Mahala! Mahala!

The first of September marks a new orbit for my one and only sweet baby girl, Mahala. Love of my life. Incandescent beacon of light. Beloved creator of all her art. 

Her entrance in my life has anchored us to our lifetime vagabond homes, wherever in the world life brings us. Her presence is a constant source of delight and pride, awe and wonder, grace and glory. 

on one of our many memorable travels

As I was journaling this morning I listened to a new interview of Arundhati Roy - international literary star and vocal political activist - a woman of substance whose work Mahala and I admire deeply and read voraciously.