INSPIRATION OF THE WEEK

Blogging may be common to everyone nowadays, but this certain lady gives focus on featuring posts that can be considered a quick trip in and out the Metro. The Old Aparador only started this year, but it already features numerous food and places that definitely would please and make every Juan want more.

We interviewed our very own EVP to know how this note-worthy blog came to life.

http://theoldaparador.tumblr.com/

Q: What inspired you to start The Old Aparador?

A:  Last summer, I was introduced to the awesome world of tumblr. I'd spend numerous hours reblogging, liking and reblogging all over again; and then I noticed a common theme of the things I blog------Filipino. All the quotes, images and videos on my personal blog seem to be coming from a nationalist perspective, of Filipino culture, arts and heritage. I realized cultural heritage has always been close to my heart: traveling, old ancestral houses, nature, and history. These were things that attracted me and gave me much of the inspiration to thrive as a person and in my daily life. And then I decided, why not make a blog of the things I love? Because perhaps, I am not alone with my patriotic vision of raising awareness and appreciation for all things that define us as a people.

Q: Of all the places you've been to, dishes you've tasted, and experiences you went through and shared on your blog-----give us a top 3 list of your favorites.

A:
1. Silay, Bacolod
With just a 30-minute ferry boat ride from iloilo, Bacolod exuded that peaceful, old and elegant feel of a city. It was the perfect escape for our tired bodies, not to mention, a good experience for our stomachs. One would never tire of Bacolod's cuisine! But of all things nice in Bacolod, it was the beautiful old houses in Silay that made my visit extraordinary. With so much history and culture from the streets to the wooden houses and capiz windows, one's soul would never tire or get weary!

2. Intramuros, Manila
This is perhaps the most exciting city in the world, that is, if you look in the right places! Intramuros is a mystery in itself, a ghost of an era that once boasted to the world its beauty and greatness. The second world war might have bombarded it's majesty, but the remnants cease to decay with time. Perhaps, if only we have and relived the spirit, we can get back the Old Manila that is our pride. Some places to visit here are : Escolta, San Agustin Church, Casa Manila, Baluarte San Diego, Manila Cathedral and the nearby Binondo.

3. Vigan, Ilocos Norte
Perhaps, googling it up would give one an idea of the wonders that is truly, elegantly and historically VIGAN. Nested at the North of Luzon, this city boasts of its heritage as one that will truly make you dream, think and remember. There is nothing like seeing the old great houses in real life, or walking along calle crisologo, and even riding the Calesa around town. More memorable are the kindness of people and the simplicity of their lives, and it makes you reflect even deeper the things in life that you often overlook: the beauty of nature, the culture of community and the soul of the arts. Vigan truly does wonders to a person. A must see world-class heritage of the North!

Q: Who is Melinda Gabuya of The Old Aparador?

A: Mel Gabuya is a senior from the Legal Management program minoring in Cultural Heritage who envisions a Filipino generation of both young and old, involved and appreciative of their natural, cultural and historical pride. She takes pleasure in giving back to Filipino heritage by traveling, food tripping and blogging about anything that spells local culture despite limited time and budget as a student.

REBLOG NOW FROM THE OLD APARADOR AND SPREAD THE CAUSE.
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