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One road but inspiration doubles: NLEX Humans of the North returns for Season 2 

Out of Town Blog
One road but inspiration doubles: NLEX Humans of the North returns for Season 2

NLEX Humans of the North Season 2: Inspiring Stories from Northern and Central Luzon

Feel inspired once again by endearing stories of the north! The highly anticipated second season of the award-winning digital campaign and documentary series, NLEX Humans of the North, is set to premiere this month, bringing even more heartwarming and powerful stories from the vibrant communities of Northern and Central Luzon for every conscious traveler.

NLEX Humans of the North Season 2
NLEX Humans of the North Season 2

NLEX Corporation goes beyond breathtaking landscapes and historical landmarks through this captivating digital series. Humans of the North elevates traveling to a new level of discovering moving stories of humanity in various angles.

Shane Lumanog for NLEX Humans of the North Season 2
Shane Lumanog for NLEX Humans of the North Season 2

What’s in Season 2?

Season 2 dives deep into the soul of the provinces featured, showcasing extraordinary individuals who have been shaping its richness of culture and history.

This season promises an even more intimate look at the human spirit featuring everyday individuals making a profound impact on their communities through their dedication and passion.

“In Season 1, we were overwhelmed by the positive response to the stories of resilience, strength, and hope that emerged from the north. The second season builds on that foundation, offering a deeper connection to the remarkable people who make this region so radiant and colorful,” said NLEX Corporation President and General Manager, J. Luigi L. Bautista.

Shane Lumanog for NLEX Humans of the North
Shane Lumanog for NLEX Humans of the North

Pampanga’s bests for Episode 1

The pilot episode will feature Shane Lumanog, hailing from the city of Angeles, Pampanga. She is an independent singer-songwriter prominent for crafting music in the Kapampangan language. Her musical journey began at the age of 4 when she first picked up the ukulele, igniting her passion for music. As she turned 10, she had also mastered the guitar, which inspired her even more to create songs that celebrate her native tongue, Kapampangan.

The Lumanog surname holds significance in the country’s music scene, attributed to their lineage as renowned guitar makers. Together with her sister, Shena, they collaborated and have built a dynamic duo on stage to represent her home province. Shane has produced numerous Kapampangan pop hits and remains dedicated to expanding her music’s reach into the mainstream.

Shane Lumanog
Shane Lumanog

Humans of the North are pride of the North

Humans of the North is not just a documentary series; it is a movement that celebrates the human spirit. This season promises to spark every traveler’s wanderlust, inspire them to chase their dreams, and discover a newfound appreciation for the power of storytelling and admiration to Northern and Central Luzon as a whole.

Catch the first installment of Humans of the North Season 2 on May 3 at @NLEXLakbayNorte Facebook page.

About NLEX Corporation

NLEX Corporation is the builder and operator of NLEX, SCTEX, and NLEX Connector. A subsidiary of Metro Pacific Tollways Corporation, it is engaged in the development, design, construction, finance, operation, and management of toll road projects.

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Read: Human by Nature: The Magnificence of Kerala

One road but inspiration doubles: NLEX Humans of the North returns for Season 2
Melo Villareal
Out of Town Blog

A Feast for the Senses: Catalogue Restaurant Delivers a Symphony of Flavors at Citadines... 

Out of Town Blog
A Feast for the Senses: Catalogue Restaurant Delivers a Symphony of Flavors at Citadines Benavidez Makati

Experience a Symphony of Flavors at Citadines Benavidez Makati

Makati remains popular for its fast-paced lifestyle and thriving food scene. Renowned as a haven for food lovers, the city has garnered a well-deserved reputation as a culinary destination. This sets the stage for an exciting and dynamic culinary landscape that caters to the diverse tastes and preferences of food enthusiasts.

Catalogue Restaurant
Catalogue Restaurant

Standing tall in the heart of the city is Citadines Benavidez Makati, the newest addition to Ascott’s roster of properties. As the latest go-to destination for locals, international visitors, and business travelers alike, Citadines Benavidez Makati is primed to take advantage of Makati’s vibrant culinary scene. With its exceptional location, the property not only complements the city’s bustling food scene but also enhances the experience with its own culinary gem – Catalogue Restaurant.

Catalogue’s culinary team is led by Chef Katrina Alcantara, a seasoned veteran in the industry. Throughout her impressive career, Chef Kat has honed her skills and expanded her knowledge through various culinary endeavors. She has worked with several established restaurants, and even serves as the owner of Mesclun, an in-house restaurant operating in The Ascott Makati.

Symphony of Flavors at Citadines Benavidez Makati
Symphony of Flavors at Citadines Benavidez Makati

With two decades of experience under her belt, as well as having collaborated with renowned chefs and gaining invaluable insights along the way, Chef Kat’s contributions to the Catalogue team is expected to set the bar high for the restaurant’s gastronomic excellence.

(From left to right): Potato Leek Soup, Sourdough Pepperoni Pizza, Buttermilk Fried Chicken, and Pappardelle Pork Ragu
(From left to right): Potato Leek Soup, Sourdough Pepperoni Pizza, Buttermilk Fried Chicken, and Pappardelle Pork Ragu

With a skillfully curated menu, Catalogue features dishes across different regions and cultures. Combining traditional and innovative flavors that cater to different tastes and palates, each dish is carefully crafted and prepared by Catalogue’s team of chefs. From the enticing crunch of salted vinegar chicken skin to the pappardelle pork ragu, every dish at Catalogue is a testament to Chef Kat’s dedication and the restaurant’s commitment to culinary excellence. Different desserts, like the passion fruit taho, cocktails, and coffee options are also available to further sweeten the experience.

The unwavering commitment of using high-quality ingredients ensures that every dish at Catalogue effectively delivers an exceptional culinary experience that delights the senses and satisfies even the most discerning palates.

(From left to right): Passion Fruit Iced Tea, Lime Espresso, Watermelon Calamansi, and Espresso Macchiato.
(From left to right): Passion Fruit Iced Tea, Lime Espresso, Watermelon Calamansi, and Espresso Macchiato.

“At Catalogue Restaurant, our culinary journey is inspired by a passion for enhancing the experience of every Citadines Benavidez Makati guest,” said The Ascott Limited’s Cluster General Manager Cecille Teodoro. “We take pride in curating a menu that not only delights taste buds but also caters to the diverse needs of our esteemed guests. From delectable dishes crafted with locally sourced ingredients at Catalogue to freshly brewed and expertly crafted coffee from the property’s brand signature, For the Love of Coffee, we are committed to complementing your stay with an unforgettable dining experience.”

To help craft a unique and unparalleled home away from home experience, Catalogue Restaurant plays a pivotal role through its meticulously curated menu inspired by local flavors and international cuisine. The restaurant’s commitment to exceptional dining resonates throughout the property, offering guests a seamless fusion of comfort and sophistication. Within the contemporary ambiance, Catalogue introduces a fresh and innovative perspective to Manila’s culinary scene.

Secure your stay at Citadines Benavidez Makati today. For reservations and updates about The Ascott Limited’s Citadines properties, visit the official website and its social media pages in Facebook and Instagram.

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A Feast for the Senses: Catalogue Restaurant Delivers a Symphony of Flavors at Citadines Benavidez Makati
Melo Villareal
Out of Town Blog

5 Best coastal Camino walking routes 

Out of Town Blog
5 Best coastal Camino walking routes

Discover the Best Coastal Camino Walking Routes in Europe

All walking holidays are great experience, but, for the sea lovers out there, coastline Camino’s cannot be beaten. There are numerous different walking routes to choose from in various countries across Europe. Each of them stretch along the coastlines, offering breathtaking views and unique adventures. So, here are five of the best coastal Camino routes for you to explore:

Porto Covo to Sagres
Porto Covo to Sagres

1. Porto Covo to Sagres (Walking on the Rota Vicentina)

The journey from Porto Covo to Sagres is part of the Rota Vicentina, a network of walking trails in Southwest Portugal. This route is particularly famous for its magnificent Atlantic views and landscapes. Stretching approximately 120 kilometres, it allows walkers to immerse themselves in the raw beauty of the Portuguese coastline. The trail passes through diverse terrains, from sandy beaches to rugged cliffs, and is dotted with small fishing villages where you can experience local hospitality.

Camino del Norte
Camino del Norte

2. The Northern Way (Camino del Norte)

The Northern Way, or Camino del Norte, explores the northern coast of Spain starting from the Basque Country in Irún and stretching all the way to Galicia. This route is less crowded compared to the more famous French Way and offers spectacular ocean views, beautiful landscapes, and a chance to visit charming coastal towns like Bilbao, Santander, and Gijón. With a distance of over 800 kilometres, it is a challenging, but an incredibly rewarding route for those who take on its full length.

3. The Lighthouse Way (Camino dos Faros)

The Lighthouse Way, or Camino dos Faros, is a route situated on the coast of the Costa da Morte in Galicia, Spain. Stretching about 200 kilometres, this route is named after the numerous lighthouses that you will meet along the way. It is a cultural journey through unspoiled nature, historical shipwreck sites, and remote sandy beaches. The path also offers many interesting stops where you can learn about local legends and folklore tales of the sea.

4. The English Way (Camino Inglés)

Originating as the route used by English and Irish pilgrims who landed on the shores of northwest Spain, the English Way (Camino Inglés) offers coastal walking with historical context. Starting from the seaports of Ferrol or A Coruña, the route heads to Santiago de Compostela, but not before allowing walkers to enjoy the coastal scenery and cultural landmarks of Galicia.

5. The Atlantic coastal route (Camino Atlántico)

Linking the popular Portuguese Coastal Way with the classic Camino Portugués, the Atlantic Coastal Route offers a serene walk along Portugal’s western coast. Beginning in Porto and heading north, it combines stunning seaside stretches with sections through lush forests and historic towns before rejoining the main Portuguese Camino in Redondela, Spain. The blending of coastal beauty with cultural richness makes this route a great option for both new and experienced walkers.

Best coastal Camino walking routes
Best coastal Camino walking routes

Conclusion

The coastal Camino routes provide more than just a walking experience – they are an exploration of culture, history, and nature. Whether it’s the sandy beaches of Portugal or the historical paths of Spain’s coastal towns, you will be sure to have an unforgettable experience!

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5 Best coastal Camino walking routes
Team Out of Town
Out of Town Blog

Smart drives increase in 5G data traffic powered by the Philippines’ Best 5G Coverage Experience 

Out of Town Blog
Smart drives increase in 5G data traffic powered by the Philippines’ Best 5G Coverage Experience

Enhancing 5G Experience with PLDT’s Smart Communications

As 5G is quickly becoming the preferred connectivity option among mobile subscribers in the country, PLDT Inc (PLDT), a leading integrated telco network, and its wireless subsidiary Smart Communications, Inc (Smart) have observed a steady rise in average monthly 5G data usage in 2023. This growth is due to their excellent 5G mobile network, which has received multiple awards.

Smart drives increase in 5G data traffic powered by the Philippines' Best 5G Coverage Experience
Smart drives increase in 5G data traffic powered by the Philippines’ Best 5G Coverage Experience

In 2023, the average quarterly 5G data traffic almost doubled, showing a 95% increase compared to the previous year. Specifically, in the fourth quarter of 2023, Smart network experienced a 16% surge in average monthly data traffic on its 5G network, compared to the previous period. The driving forces behind this growth were the availability of new, more affordable 5G devices and the continuous promotion of Postpaid Unli5G Signature plans.

“As we strive to continue delivering the best mobile experience to our customers, we also ensure that our offers are value-packed and relevant, and that we are also able to make the latest handsets more accessible for our subscribers to make it easier for them to upgrade,” said Alex O. Caeg, Head of Smart Consumer Wireless Business.

Smart’s mobile network has been supporting the continuous increase in data usage. Recently, the network was recognized by independent analytics firm Opensignal for delivering the Philippines’ Best 5G Coverage Experience. The network covers 97% of the population and is part of the largest integrated network in the Philippines, which includes PLDT’s 1.1 million kilometer fiber infrastructure.

“Coverage is key to 5G adoption. Our latest citation from Opensignal is a testament to Smart’s commitment to expand the reach of our network across the Philippines. These efforts are also bearing fruit, as can be seen in the increase in our 5G data traffic, which has practically doubled,” Caeg added.

Smart’s initiatives to deliver enhanced mobile products and services are aligned with the PLDT Group’s endeavors to narrow the digital divide and provide connectivity to all, supporting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDG) particularly on SDG No. 9 – Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure. These also reinforce the Group’s support for the Government’s overall digitalization thrust.

Opensignal Awards – Philippines: Mobile Network Experience Report April 2024, based on independent analysis of mobile measurements recorded during the period January 1– March 30, 2024 © 2024 Opensignal Limited.

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Read: Smart leads with the Philippines’ best 5G Coverage and Availability, according to Opensignal results

Smart drives increase in 5G data traffic powered by the Philippines’ Best 5G Coverage Experience
Melo Villareal
Out of Town Blog