Category: Thematic Blogs

Family, Friends & Relationships

On Homecomings and Family Reunions: A Reminiscence

Michael Pido,

Due to job and other circumstances, members of a once intact family separate to pursue their own ways. During our college days starting in 1977, my brother and I always look forward to our planned family reunions every Christmas and/or summer break. Once we started working in 1981, though, our reunions became less frequent. It even became rarer when our late father passed away in 1996. Our unexpected and unannounced family gathering a year later is something unique among all other reunions – and indeed something to reminisce.

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Education & Academic Musings

The University of the Philippines (UP) Mystique: Is it Real or Just a Bravado?

Michael Pido,

Graduates of University of the Philippines (UP) are generally held in high esteem. There is a certain ‘mystique’ that UP graduates are the best, if not among the cream of the crop. Hence, they used to populate the government service, private sector and civil society organizations. There is even a bravado argument that there are only two schools: (1) UP and (2) Others. This article presents an insider’s perspective about five factors that contribute and/or associated with such a UP mystique. While UP graduates may be considered as still among the best, other schools have closed the gap – albeit considerably. Hence, such a UP mystique may not last very long, if at all

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Cambodia culinary delights

Reasonably-Priced Culinary Delights in Siem Reap, Cambodia: A Family Sharing

Michael Pido,

During our family of five members’ travel to Siem Reap, Cambodia, on December 2018, we spent on the average US$20 per meal, including drinks. The amounts of our family meals ranged from US$15 in street food stalls up to US$30 in not so pricy restaurants. Hopefully, this travelogue may help as a reference guide to those traveling families with limited budget for food.

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Accommodations & Lodging Places siem reap, cambodia

Reasonably-Budgeted Accommodation in Siem Reap, Cambodia: A Family of Five Experiential Sharing

Michael Pido,

During our December 2018 family trip to Siem Reap, Cambodia, we stayed in two hotels with fairly high reviews and very reasonable rates: ‘Bokre Angkor Hostel’ at US$194 for 2 rooms for 4 days and ‘The Orientation Lodge’ at US$157 for 2 rooms for 3 days. These hotels have quite helpful staff and very accommodating owners-managers. We highly recommend these to families visiting Siem Reap on a limited budget.

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