Barbara's Heritage Restaurant is a Spanish-Filipino restaurant located in Intramuros, Manila. It is housed in a restored Spanish-era mansion, Casa Manila, and is known for its elegant interiors, traditional Filipino cuisine, and cultural performances. The restaurant has two main dining halls: the Main Dining Hall and the Sala Filipina. The Main Dining Hall was built using adobe blocks and has a white lime finish, similar to how it would have been in the colonial era. It seats up to 200 guests and is often used for weddings, banquets, and other special events. The Sala Filipina is a smaller dining hall that seats up to 100 guests and is a popular choice for intimate gatherings. The restaurant's menu features a variety of Filipino dishes, including lechon, adobo, sinigang, and kare-kare. There are also a selection of Spanish dishes, such as paella, tapas, and sangria. The restaurant also offers a daily buffet lunch and dinner. In addition to its food, Barbara's Heritage Restaurant is also known for its cultural performances. Every night, the restaurant hosts a show called "Kultura Filipina," which features traditional Filipino music and dance. The show is a great way to learn about Filipino culture and history. Barbara's Heritage Restaurant is a popular tourist destination and is a great place to experience the best of Filipino cuisine and culture. It is also a popular choice for locals who want to celebrate special occasions in a unique setting. Read on for more on the wonderful food we tried, how to find Barbara's Heritage Restaurant, our YouTube video highlights and our restaurant rating! In this post... Our Barbara's Heritage Restaurant highlights The history of Barbara's Restaurant and the surrounding area The menu at Barbara's Heritage Restaurant How to get to there Our Barbara's Heritage Restaurant experience rating Watch us explore Intramuros on YouTube Explore Manila with Klook Your FREE GUIDE to visiting the Philippines Our Barbara's Heritage Restaurant highlights If you did not already know, we are both huge history fans and we just love finding places like this. A blend of history and food? The perfect combination! We had spotted this restaurant online while looking for things to see in Intramuros. Casa Manila and St Augustin Church were on our list, and this restaurant is literally within the Casa Manila complex, and directly opposite San Augustin. So we were in no doubt that we should try it! The entrance alone is really inviting, with a beautiful wooden staircase adorned with beautiful pictures and mirrors. There is an amazing chandelier to admire too! There were staff at the bottom meeting and greeting, and also another staff member at the top of the stairs. Needless to say it took a fair few minuted to make it to the top! There is so much to look at and admire there. By the time we took our seats we were already pretty awestruck by the delightful and enchanting decor of the main dining room. Beautiful curtains adorn the windows, the wood panelled ceiling features a giant crystal chandelier, and the tables are beautifully presented. Even the buffet area is a taste of old, with ornate silver pots and trays, with food even on display in a antique wooden cabinet. It was pretty hot, even with a few air conditioning unites dotted around the room. The staff kindly brought us a fan, and moved us to a cooler table when it became available too. The heat to one side, this is a dining area that literally moves you back a hundred years. It is really well put together and has a real charm to it! We opted for the buffet as we wanted to try a bit of everything. It was expensive, and perhaps a little too overpriced truth be told, but nonetheless we really did enjoy it. Plus it is always nice to help yourself right? The food was good, and we did enjoy it. Among our favorites was the turonitos (mini plantain fried rolls), the fish rebusado, lechon paksiw (fried pork belly in liver sauce), beef caldereta and patola con gabi (sponge gourd and taro cooked with wheat vermicelli). After a drink and two very full bellies, we were also treated to the live band who made their way through the restaurant, first in the tea room and then out into the main dining hall where we were. It helped add even more to the already lovely ambience, and we really liked them. They were a special treat! The whole experience was really lovely to be honest. We hope you get a chance to experience it! Read on for some history, the menu, how to find the restaurant, highlights in our YouTube video and our in depth experience rating! The history of Barbara's Heritage Restaurant and the surrounding area Barbara's Heritage Restaurant was founded in 1977 by Barbara Gordon-De Los Reyes. The restaurant is housed in a restored Spanish-era mansion, Casa Manila, which was built in the 18th century. The mansion was originally the home of a Spanish governor-general, and it has been beautifully restored to its former glory. The surrounding area of Intramuros is also rich in history. Intramuros is a walled city that was built by the Spanish in the 16th century. It was the capital of the Philippines during the Spanish colonial period, and it is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The area is home to many other historical landmarks, such as the San Agustin Church, the Fort Santiago, and the Manila Cathedral. There are also many museums and art galleries in the area. Find out more about some of the landmarks close by: Casa Manila in Photos: A Living Museum of Philippine History and Culture This beautiful museum is the perfect place to get a taste of what it was like for the elite in the Spanish colonial era. A Manila must-see! Manila Cathedral: surviving earthquakes and wars over half a century Learn about its incredible history, SEVEN rebuilds, its role as one of the most important sites in the Philippines, and its beauty in photos San Agustin Church, the oldest stone church in the Philippines This incredible church has endured wars and earthquakes unscathed to emerge as a national symbol, as the pride of Manila and the Philippines. Barbara's Heritage Restaurant Menu The menu at Barbara's Heritage Restaurant features a variety of Filipino and Spanish dishes, all made with fresh, local ingredients. The menu includes appetizers, main courses, and desserts. Some of the popular appetizers include crispy lechon kawali (fried pork belly), sinigang na baboy (pork sinigang, a sour soup), lumpia shanghai (spring rolls), and gambas al ajillo (garlic shrimp). Some of the popular main courses include adobo (chicken or pork braised in soy sauce, vinegar, and garlic), kare-kare (oxtail stew in peanut sauce), lechon (whole roasted pig), and paella (Spanish rice dish with seafood, meat, and vegetables). Some of the popular desserts include halo-halo (shaved ice dessert with sweet beans, fruits, and condensed milk), leche flan (caramel custard), and ube cake (purple yam cake). The menu also includes a variety of Filipino and Spanish wines, beers, and cocktails. How to get to Barbara's Heritage Restaurant Barbara's Heritage Restaurant is located in Intramuros, Manila. Here are the directions to get there: By car: Take Roxas Boulevard and turn right onto General Luna Street. Continue straight until you reach Plaza San Luis. Barbara's Heritage Restaurant is on your right. By bus: Take the LRT Line 1 to the Intramuros station. From there, walk for about 10 minutes to Plaza San Luis. Barbara's Heritage Restaurant is on your right. By taxi: Take a taxi and tell the driver to take you to Barbara's Heritage Restaurant in Intramuros. The restaurant is also accessible by bicycle. There are bike racks available at the restaurant. Address: Plaza San Luis Complex, General Luna St, Intramuros, Manila, 1002 Metro Manila, Philippines. Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday: 9am to 9pm Live music bands play daily. Contact: +63 2 8527 4083 Instagram: @barbarasrestaurant Reservations & Menu: barbaras.ph Note that at busy times reservations may be required, All major credit cards are accepted, although bring cash in case the card machine is not working. There is an ATM nearby if needed. Our Barbara's Heritage Restaurant experience rating ⭐⭐⭐ 3/5 Watch us explore Intramuros on YouTube In this video we explore Manila Old City, known as Intramuros! It is such a beautiful area of Manila! We show you the best luxury and local places to visit as we walk around and explore the city. Come rain or shine we made the best of the day! We explored the tourist hot spots of Plaza San Luis Complex, where you will find the Barbara's Heritage Restaurant, The Royal Cafe and the Casa Manila Living Museum. We explore San Agustin Church and Manila Cathedral, and also visit the historic Fort Santiago, all while enjoying the sights and sounds of the lively and friendly Manila that we have come to know and love over the past month! Be sure to like and comment on the video if you enjoyed it as it helps it be seen by others! And please don't forget to subscribe if you are interested in seeing more of our videos! We share travel and lifestyle videos and vlogs from all around the world about the world every few days. Don't miss out! Explore Manila with Klook Klook offers a wide variety of tours to help you experience the best of Metro Manila. Whether you're looking for a sunset cruise, a local attraction or a day trip island hopping, Klook has it all. In addition to their wide selection of tours, Klook also offers great deals on transportation, accommodation, and activities. All tours are led by experienced guides who can help you learn about the history and culture of the Philippines. Klook's tours are all-inclusive too, so you don't have to worry about anything but enjoying your experience! Your FREE GUIDE to visiting the Philippines First time in the Philippines? Check out our comprehensive guide with all you need to know including our latest posts, must-see places, and key information about health & safety, transport, local customs, internet availability and much more!

We had the privilege of attending Jose Mari Chan's concert at Festival Mall in Muntinlupa City to mark the start of Christmas in the Philippines! It was a magical night of music and fireworks, with Chan performing all of his classic hits, including 'Christmas in Our Hearts,' 'A Perfect Christmas,' and 'Give Me Your Heart.' This really was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see one of the most iconic Filipino musicians perform his beloved Christmas songs! The audience was singing along and in wonderful spirits, and it was clear that everyone was having a fantastic time, despite a ferocious deluge of rain that was soaking the crowd. It was the perfect way to start the festive season, and for us, a night where we were able to experience the true passion that the people of the Philippines have for Christmas. In this post we give you some background to the charming Mr Chan, show you why you should visit Festival Mall, and finish up with our epic YouTube video highlights of the concert and fireworks show! In this post... Who is Jose Mari Chan? Our concert highlights Festival Mall - The fifth largest mall in the Philippines How to get to Festival Mall Our YouTube video Explore Manila with Klook Your FREE GUIDE to visiting the Philippines Who is Jose Mari Chan? Jose Mari Chan, born on March 11, 1945, in Iloilo City, Philippines, is a renowned Filipino singer, songwriter, and entrepreneur. His father was an immigrant from Fujian, China who came to the Philippines at age 13 and started a sugar trading company in Bacolod. Chan's mother was the only child of a Chinese-Filipino couple. Chan was exposed to music in his childhood with his maternal grandmother from Cebu often playing music at their house and his mother being a pianist. Hailing from a musically inclined family, he cultivated his love for music from a young age, mastering instruments like the piano and guitar while refining his vocal talents. Chan's musical journey took off in the 1960s when he began to captivate Filipino audiences with his melodious tunes and smooth singing style. His discography boasts a collection of English and Tagalog songs that have resonated with fans throughout his illustrious career. One of Chan's most enduring legacies is his influence on Filipino Christmas music. Often referred to as the "Father of Philippine Christmas Music," his 1990 Christmas album, "Christmas in Our Hearts," remains an iconic and beloved part of the country's holiday tradition. The titular track, "Christmas in Our Hearts," is an iconic Filipino Christmas song that plays ubiquitously during the festive season. His contribution to the realm of Christmas music has solidified his position as a cherished cultural figure, and his songs continue to evoke the spirit of Christmas throughout the Philippines. Chan has won numerous awards for his music, including the Awit Award for Best Male Performer, the Aliw Award for Best Concert Performer, and the Catholic Mass Media Awards for Best Songwriter. He was also awarded the Order of Lakandula by the Philippine government for his contributions to the arts. Beyond music, Jose Mari Chan is a multifaceted individual. He has successfully ventured into the business world, engaging in enterprises such as real estate development and the food industry. He is the chairman and CEO of Binalbagan Isabela Sugar Company, Inc., a sugar milling company in Negros Occidental. He is also the president of Signature Music, Inc., a music publishing company. Furthermore, Jose Mari Chan's philanthropic endeavors have demonstrated his commitment to social causes. He has utilized his fame and resources to support various charitable and humanitarian initiatives in the Philippines. His impact transcends the boundaries of music, as he has become an influential figure who uses his platform for positive change. Christmas starts earlier in the Philippines than perhaps anywhere else in the world. Typically September 1st is the opening date, and one in which an avalanche of Chan memes circulate on the web. His songs are synonymous with Christmas in the Philippines, and his image is often used to represent the holiday season. The memes about Chan are often humorous and play on his image as the "King of Philippine Christmas Carols." Some of the memes show him being "forced" to sing Christmas songs, while others show him being "trapped" in the Christmas season. The memes are a way for Filipinos to poke fun at Chan's popularity and to celebrate the start of the Christmas season. In essence, Jose Mari Chan's enduring musical legacy, particularly his role in shaping the Filipino Christmas tradition, has made him a beloved, cherished and iconic figure in the Philippines. His timeless songs continue to inspire and bring joy to countless generations of Filipinos, particularly during the holiday season, solidifying his place in the hearts of the nation. Our Jose Mari Chan Festival Mall Concert highlights We had no idea that the Christmas festivities start in September in the Philippines. Known as the 'Ber' months, the appearance of Jose Mari Chan is always the sign that it has arrived. Indeed his songs are played in stores and malls across the country, along with endless plays on national radio. When we found out about Christmas starting so soon, we reached out to our Airbnb host to see if there was any kind of event local to us to mark it. We were actually due to leave the Philippines on the first week of September, so we were really lucky to be in a position to try something. Our host caught wind of the concert on Facebook, and kindly sent us the link. We instantly knew that we just had to go to this event! We were staying in the Azure Urban Resort Residences in Parañaque, just a fifteen minute cab ride away from Festival Mall in Muntinlupa City. We decided to go to the mall early, as we had also booked tickets for the FIBA World Cup match between Philippines and China the following day, and were on the hunt for some Gilas Pilipinas jerseys or merch. When we arrived at the mall we first picked up our tickets, and then had a wander around to check it out. Honestly, we did not get that far. The mall is absolutely massive! There is so much to see and do here, and we could have easily spent far more time perusing the endless stores and entertainment options. A tad hungry, we decided to head out to the Water Garden early, to check out some of the food stands and grab a beer and a good seat. There were a good few stalls with lots of different options, and you can take a closer look in our YouTube video! We tried a 'dynamite' spicy deep fried pepper stick, some deep fried noodle and crab sticks, and some chicken pops. All accompanied by a refreshing Heineken beer! After the food stop and a quick tour of the Water Garden we took to our seats under the tent and were awaiting eagerly for Jose Mari Chan to arrive. The area quickly filled up with the crowd spread across the ground level of the gardens and also on the balconies of the mall itself behind the stage. It was a great site and we could easily see just how popular he is. With just a few moments to go before Chan was due on stage, it happened. The heavens opened. And boy did they! The rain, later described as a typhoon, absolutely thundered down. It was so intense at one point we were not even sure that the concert would go ahead! But to the absolute credit of the crowd, they not only came prepared with umbrellas, but did not budge an inch. They were not about to miss out on a national icon and neither were we! So everyone persevered, and when Chan came on stage, the excitement from the crowd reached fever pitch. It really was fantastic! Even though we had some kind of cover, we were playing musical chairs to avoid the sweeping rain where we could. Honestly though, it kind of all added to the atmosphere of the night and we did not mind at all. Chan is certainly a charming man and we can certainly understand his allure and appeal! His songs are so gentle, he sings them so softly and smoothly, and they are super easy to sing along to. In between songs he would break off into jokes and stories, and we learnt a lot about him just from that alone, especially about his love for his wife, Mary Ann Ansaldo, with whom he has been married to for an incredible 50 years! Even with the intense rain, the organizers were still able to conduct the firework display, which was a big treat considering we had no idea that was happening! And when we did find out, we were pretty sure the deluge of rain would call it off. But on it went, halfway through the concert, and it was a sparkling success! Really impressive actually (check them out in our YouTube video later). Do you enjoy fireworks? We love them! Chan saved most of his Christmas songs for the second half of the show, and even invited some of the audience up onto the stage to sing with him! That was such a lovely moment, really endearing, and showed just why he is loved so many. He really made an effort to engage with the crowd and it is really welcomed. We had an excellent time and we are so happy to have been able to attend this event! Even though we have sadly left the Philippines (at time of writing) we know we will be back, hopefully before the year is out. We are super keen to return to Festival Mall and enjoy more of their future shows. As it happens, this is their 25th anniversary, and they plan to celebrate the run up to Christmas with more concerts and special guest appearances. Let's see what happens! Read more: FIBA World Cup 2023 highlights: Gilas Pilipinas beat China in our first ever basketball game A memorable night cheering on the Gilas Pilipinas as they defeat China in their first World Cup victory in nearly a decade! Festival Mall Alabang - the fifth largest mall in the Philippines Festival Mall Alabang has a rich history dating back to its opening in 1998. Over the years, it has evolved into a prominent shopping and entertainment complex in the southern part of Metro Manila. The mall is managed and operated by Filinvest Land, Inc., a reputable real estate developer in the Philippines with a commitment to delivering quality properties. Festival Mall is the fifth largest mall in the Philippines, and one of the busiest in Metro Manila. It receives an average of 100,000 visitors per day. However, this number can go up to 200,000 on weekends and holidays. The mall is especially crowded during the Christmas season, when it can get up to 300,000 visitors per day. This sprawling mall offers a diverse range of amenities to cater to the needs and preferences of its visitors. Shoppers can explore a plethora of retail stores featuring fashion boutiques, electronics shops, bookstores, and more. Food enthusiasts can delight in the wide variety of dining options available, spanning from fast-food favorites to upscale restaurants. Festival Mall also houses supermarkets and grocery stores for convenient shopping. Entertainment options include state-of-the-art cinemas screening the latest film releases, an ice skating rink for some cool thrills, a bowling alley, and an arcade for gaming enthusiasts. Not only that, but it is also home to not one, but two amusement parks. Additionally, the mall provides essential services such as banks, salons, and health clinics, making it a one-stop destination for both shopping and leisure. With its array of amenities and activities, Festival Mall Alabang has solidified its reputation as a vibrant and dynamic hub in the bustling Filinvest City. Read more: Azure Urban Resort Residences Airbnb Review in Parañaque, Manila A luxurious and convenient living space in an ideal location to explore Manila. See the pools, beaches, food and facilities in our review. How to get to Festival Mall Festival Mall is located in Alabang, Muntinlupa City, Philippines. The mall is a popular shopping and entertainment destination in the area. To get to Festival Mall Alabang, you can use various modes of transportation, such as a car, public transportation, or a ride-sharing service like Grab. By Car If you're coming from the north (e.g., Makati or Manila), take the South Luzon Expressway (SLEX) and head south. Continue on SLEX until you reach the Alabang Exit. After exiting SLEX, follow the signs that lead to Alabang-Zapote Road. Festival Mall is located along Alabang-Zapote Road. You should be able to see it on your right-hand side. There is a parking fee of PHP 40 for the first hour and PHP 20 for every succeeding hour. By Public Transportation (Commuter Options) You can take the MRT (Metro Rail Transit) to the Taft Avenue Station if you're coming from Manila or nearby areas. From Taft Avenue Station, take a jeepney or bus bound for Alabang and inform the driver that you want to go to Festival Mall. Alabang is a well-known destination, and most drivers will know how to get there. Alternatively, you can take a UV Express van from designated terminals around Metro Manila that go directly to Alabang. Look for vans heading to "Alabang-Zapote." By Ride-Sharing Service (e.g., Grab) Download the Grab app and set your pickup location to your current location. Enter "Festival Mall Alabang" as your destination. Confirm your ride request, and the driver will take you directly to the mall. Always be sure to check current traffic conditions, especially during peak hours, as traffic congestion can affect travel times. Festival Mall is a well-known landmark in Alabang, so most locals and drivers should be familiar with its location. Address: Filinvest Corporate City, Commerce Ave, Alabang, Muntinlupa, Metro Manila, Philippines Email: retailleasing@filinvestlifemalls.com Phone: (63) 2 8850 3517 / 2 8846 0278 Opening hours: 10am to 9pm, Monday to Sunday Website: filinvestlifemalls.com/filinvest-lifemalls/festival-mall Our YouTube video Join us on YouTube as we explore this incredible shopping mall (another one to add to our Manila collection) and catch front row VIP seats to this awesome concert. We are so blessed to have had this experience and to have attended this event with the local people here in the Philippines! We love Christmas! Be sure to like and comment on the video if you enjoyed it as it helps it be seen by others! And please don't forget to subscribe if you are interested in seeing more of our videos! We share travel and lifestyle videos and vlogs from all around the world about the world every few days. Don't miss out! Explore Manila with Klook Klook offers a wide variety of tours to help you experience the best of Metro Manila. Whether you're looking for a sunset cruise, a local attraction or a day trip island hopping, Klook has it all. In addition to their wide selection of tours, Klook also offers great deals on transportation, accommodation, and activities. All tours are led by experienced guides who can help you learn about the history and culture of the Philippines. Klook's tours are all-inclusive too, so you don't have to worry about anything but enjoying your experience! Your FREE GUIDE to visiting the Philippines First time in the Philippines? Check out our comprehensive guide with all you need to know including our latest posts, must-see places, and key information about health & safety, transport, local customs, internet availability and much more!

Our UNFORGETABLE highlights from a brilliant match between Philippines and China, including our best-viewed YouTube video EVER! We couldn't pass up the opportunity to attend and highlight one of the host countries of the FIBA World Cup (World Basketball Cup) right here in Quezon City in Metro Manila! A once in a life time experience! We cheered on the GILAS PILIPINAS as they played at home in Quezon City, Metro Manila. We must have been a good luck charm for them as this was their first win in almost A DECADE! With an epic win over China and an EXPLOSIVE 3rd quarter in which superstar JORDAN CLARKSON hit 5 STRAIGHT three-pointers it was definitely the game of the decade to be at for Gilas Pilipinas fans! Going to the SMART Araneta Coliseum was our first visit to Quezon City. We couldn't be happier or prouder to have been there to support Gilas, and give back some of the love and support that the Filipino people have shown us during our month long stay here in Manila. Read on for our highlights of this fantastic game, a Q & A for those of you who want to know more about Gilas Pilipinas, our epic YouTube video, and as an added bonus, your FREE GUIDE to visiting the Philippines! In this post... Our match highlights Q & A and facts about Gilas Pilipinas Our Philippines vs China FIBA 2023 YouTube video Your FREE GUIDE to visiting the Philippines Our match highlights When we arrived in Manila at the beginning of August, admittedly we were totally unaware that the Philippines were co-hosting the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup with Japan and Indonesia, the first time they had been a host nation in a whopping 45 years. So when we did find out, we simply could not pass up on the opportunity to head to a game. It just so happened that this match was due to take place just a few days after we heard about the tournament, and ironically just two days before we were due to leave Manila! The timing could not have been better, and thankfully we secured two tickets on a night that turned out to be a near sell-out event. We were super excited to get to the game, which was playing at the Smart Araneta Coliseum. This is a stadium that holds a special place in the heart of Quezon City, hosting sports and concerts alike since its completion in 1960. Indeed it hosted the last FIBA World Cup to be held in the Philippines way back in 1978. Thanks to several renovations this 16500 capacity stadium is almost as good as new. The concourse areas are modern, bright and spacious, with a litany of stores and food available in and around the stadium. It just so happened that the heavens literally opened over Manila on the night of the game. The rain was fierce and heavy, and we were very thankful that our taxi was able to drop us off undercover outside the doors at the Red Gate of the stadium. Amazingly, despite the late start of 8pm, the crazy rain, and the fact that there was little riding on this game, over eleven thousand fans packed out the stadium and were the source of a raucous and brilliant atmosphere. Having already lost all four matches prior, Gilas Pilipinas were already out of the running for a first-ever FIBA World Cup. Indeed the statistics did not look good from any angle, with 9 straight World Cup losses to their name. This on top of the unwanted record of 8 straight defeats in the last World Cup they hosted, albeit over 40 years ago. Before heading inside we stopped by the merch centre to grab a shirt as we really wanted to show our support for Gilas Pilipinas. We were so glad to have been able to get them, as prior to the match we had looked for some in a couple of malls but to no avail. Literally as we entered the main arena, all decked out in brilliant white, the national anthems started. With the odds stacked so highly against the Philippines, you would never have been able to tell on the night. The support was absolutely sensational and the fans in the stadium, including us, were living and breathing every bounce of the ball. We had no idea of those aforementioned records prior to the game, and we knew that they were unable to qualify for the next round, but regardless we sensed importance here. We sensed pride. We sensed glory! The passion and pride around the arena was immense and the hairs were standing up on the back of our necks! Honestly, this atmosphere was amazing, We have been amongst 60,000 fans at the Emirates Stadium (we are Arsenal fans), and this is an unlikely rival! From the thundering chants of 'defence, defence' to 'Gilas, Gilas', it was breathtaking. Not to mention the drummers, the Mexican waves, the half time dance shows and free shirts being pot-shotted into the crowd at every opportunity. While we could go on and on about the crowd, lets talk about the game! After a tense first and second quarter, the match was almost tied. Every time Gilas went on the attack and scored a point (or three), China would score back. In the first half of the game the defence was seriously lacking for the home side, despite the unwavering support in the stands. So after a very good half-time show, the players came back out onto the court, and little did any of us know what was about to happen. With the scores so close, perhaps it was maybe expected that given their record, the Gilas Pilipinas were about to break down. Nine losses is a pretty consistent pattern. But not this time. Not tonight. Cometh the man, cometh the moment. It was time for Mr Jordan Clarkson. We had already been made aware that Clarkson was the no 1 player in the team, but up until the 3rd quarter he had been relatively quiet, bar some pretty consistent free throws. But despite that, there was an air of significance about this match for him, given that in his debut for the Philippines in the 2018 Asian Games, he tasted defeat against this very same China team. And boy did he come out with a point to prove after the break. The Utah Jazz ace sparked delirium in the coliseum in a spectacular four-minute third-quarter blitz, hitting no less than FIVE three-pointers in a phenomenal display that almost single-handily took China out of the game. Clarkson's eruption ended with 24 points, eruption being the right word considering he hit just ten points across the other three quarters. It was undeniably the main drive that led the Philippines to its first World Cup win since 2014 when they beat Senegal, and left the world in no doubt of his exceptional talent. While Clarkson may grab the headlines however, it must be said that the team defense improved considerably in the second half of the game, snuffing out almost every Chinese attack. So, a first win for the Philippines in the tournament, finishing 1-4, going out on a high, and ending all of those unwanted records. Alongside the aforementioned woes, this win also meant that Gilas Pilipinas avoided the ignominy of becoming the first host in 41 years to go winless. As far as sports go, basketball is right up there with the best of them for pure entertainment. Especially when it comes to support; not just in the stadium, but online on YouTube, where the comments on our highlight video show so much passion and pride for this team. Regardless of records and results, the Gilas Pilipinas are legends and icons in their own right, carrying the pride of the Philippines in every match. Apart from perhaps the outgoing coach, who was booed before the match even started! As we left the stadium with our popcorn filled bellies and hoarse voices, we could not help but beam with smiles and happiness at what was our finest night in Manila, and one of our favorite date nights ever. This match, this team, and this country have left an imprint on our hearts, and they certainly have new fans here. Onwards and upwards... cheers to the next victory! Go Gilas Pilipinas!!!! Match Stats: Quarters: (P vs C) 16-16 39-40 73-51 96-75 Philippines: 96 Clarkson 34, Abando 14, Sotto 12, Ramos 11, Fajardo 9, Pogoy 7, Edu 5, Thompson 4, Ravena 0, Aguilar 0. China: 75 Li 17, Zhang 13, M. Hu 12, R. Zhao 12, J. Hu 10, Zhu 5, Cui 2, Fu 2, Zhou 2, J. Zhao 0. Q&A and facts about Gilas Pilipinas Given we are both newbies to Philippines basketball, we were compelled to do some research before attending this game, so we could truly get into the spirit of things. Plus this is what travel is all about! Learning new things, supporting local (and national) communities and immersing ourselves in culture. So for those of you who may also not know much about Gilas Pilipinas, here are a few facts to get you started! What does Gilas Pilipinas mean? The name "Gilas Pilipinas" is a Filipino word that loosely translates to "prowess" or "might". It was adopted from the mascot of the 2005 Southeast Asian Games held in Manila, which is an eagle. The rallying call The team's battle cry is "Puso", which means "heart" or "courage" in Filipino. It became the mantra of the team when it ended a long 36-year FIBA World Cup appearance drought by qualifying to the 2014 edition in Spain. What is the Philippines' FIBA World Cup record? The Philippines has competed in the FIBA World Cup five times, with their best finish being a bronze medal in 1954. The Philippines has also won 18 gold medals in the Southeast Asian Games, more than any other country. Who are some famous players from the past and present? Some of the most famous players to have played for Gilas Pilipinas include Carlos Loyzaga, Ramon Fernandez, Alvin Patrimonio, and Japeth Aguilar. Currently Jordan Clarkson, a 6'5" guard who plays for the Utah Jazz in the NBA, is the best player on the team and has consistently been the highest performer. Kai Sotto is a 7'3" center who plays for the Adelaide 36ers in Australia. He is the tallest player on the team and is expected to provide rim protection and scoring inside. Dwight Ramos is a 6'6" guard who plays for Levanga Hokkaido in Japan and is a versatile player who can score, rebound, and pass. Who is the head coach? The team was coached by Chot Reyes, who has also served as head coach of the Philippine national team in the Olympics. He resigned after this game, and Tim Cone has been appointed as the new head coach on an interim basis for the upcoming Asian Games in Hangzhou, China. Where do they play? The team's home arena is the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City, Philippines. What are the team colors? The team's jersey colors are red, white, and blue. Do they have a mascot? The team's mascot is a dragon named "Gilas". What is the name of the official song? The team's official song is "Puso-ng Pilipinas". How popular are they? Gilas Pilipinas is one of the most popular national basketball teams in southern Asia, with basketball also being the no 1 sport in the Philippines. The team is renowned for its large and passionate fan base, and its games are always well-attended. The team is always looking to improve and compete at the highest level, and hopefully they can reward such support with a championship one day! Our Philippines vs China FIBA 2023 YouTube video We cannot believe that the video has hit over 230k views in 4 days at time of writing! Not only that, but we hit over 7.5k subscribers! It has been absolutely incredible, and by all accounts it is our very first 'viral video'. We hope you enjoy watching it as much as we enjoyed making it! Be sure to like and comment on the video if you enjoyed it as it helps it be seen by others! And please don't forget to subscribe if you are interested in seeing more of our videos! We share travel and lifestyle videos and vlogs from all around the world about the world every few days. Don't miss out! Your FREE GUIDE to visiting the Philippines First time in the Philippines? Check out our comprehensive guide with all you need to know including our latest posts, must-see places, and key information about health & safety, transport, local customs, internet availability and much more!

Introduction Discover your next travel destination, plan the perfect trip, find inspirational gifts or immerse yourself in our poetry and prose! Read more At Closer Lives, we offer a unique blend of experiences to our visitors and members. Through our online store and travel blog we aim to bring you closer to the world around you. We believe that life should be lived with a sense of adventure! We are passionate about inspiring people to explore the world, discover new cultures and get out of their comfort zone. Our blog is not just about travel, but about living life to the fullest. We also have a YouTube channel and Instagram page for inspiring visuals alongside thought-provoking poetry, another big passion of ours. We think travel is not just about seeing new places, it is also about discovering yourself and the world around you. Whether you’re planning a trip, on the hunt for a cool gift, wanting to treat yourself or just looking for inspiration, we believe Closer Lives has something for everyone! Socials Jenn & Leon Travel Blog Welcome to our travel experience & guide blog. Here at Closer Lives we share our experiences from our full time travels around the world. We have already explored 37 countries and our vision is to reach 100! We want to help you plan your vacation, or long term travel plans, and see the best destinations. Or simply just enjoy the journey with us! We include facts, things to do, food & cuisine and even accommodation recommendations. Our goal is to make Jenn & Leon Travel Blog a one-stop place for all you need to know about where you want to go! Take me to the blog Jenn & Leon Travel Sep 14 6 min Philippines Barbara's Heritage Restaurant: Dining in style in Intramuros This Manila restaurant is a feast for the senses! The elegant interior, delicious food, and live band will transport you to another world! Jenn & Leon Travel Sep 11 10 min Philippines A Night with Jose Mari Chan at Festival Mall to Mark the Start of Christmas 2023 A crazy rainy yet magical event with front row seats to see the King of Christmas in the Philippines, on Festival Mall's 25th anniversary! Jenn & Leon Travel Sep 8 8 min Philippines FIBA World Cup 2023 highlights: Gilas Pilipinas beat China in our first ever basketball game A memorable night cheering on the Gilas Pilipinas as they defeat China in their first World Cup victory in nearly a decade! Jenn & Leon Travel Sep 3 9 min Philippines Casa Manila in Photos: A Living Museum of Philippine History and Culture This beautiful museum is the perfect place to get a taste of what it was like for the elite in the Spanish colonial era. A Manila must-see! Take me to the blog Jenn & Leon Travel Blog Jenn & Leon Travel on YouTube We love getting to know communities and locals around the world through travel and tourism. Join us as we explore culture, cuisine, accommodation, landmarks and attractions with both budget and bougie options on YouTube! We are 2 writers, bloggers and photographers who first connected on Instagram through our poetry. We met for the first time in Australia for a Royal Caribbean cruise, going on to visit 14 countries in 2019. After spending 2020 in Canada we left it all behind in April 2021, selling up and heading for Mexico. Our YouTube channel launched in August 2021! As entrepreneurs and full-time slow travellers our goal is to see as much of this beautiful planet as we can! We love getting to know communities and locals around the world and through our channel we want to help and support them by sharing their culture with our viewers. By subscribing to our channel you will get notified of our latest videos as and when they land, so you will never miss out. With new videos every week, we are super excited to share our upcoming adventures from Asia in 2023. Subscribe here YouTube Subscribe Get our latest posts straight to your inbox. No spam, opt out anytime We plan to see, learn, love and share as much of the world with others as possible. That is why we created Closer Lives, to create a community for like-minded individuals and to help bring the world a little closer together through poetry, history, storytelling, healing, art, purpose and community. If you'd like to join us please subscribe; our social part is still being developed but currently you are able to post, share and interact. You will also be notified of our latest blog posts, videos and receive our monthly Newsletter! We'd love to have you here with us! PLUS when you sign up you will receive a welcome bonus of 10% off ANYTHING on our site! Drop your email here Our store at Closer Lives Emporium GO We launched our store in 2021 and have since grown our range to over 300 products across 17 categories. Our travel gear includes designer suitcases, back packs and matching swimwear and stylish weekender bags! We also have a fantastic range of inspirational tees, stylish hoodies, stationary, homeware, phone cases and more - all exclusively designed by us. Plus we can deliver worldwide! Our bestsellers Quick View Free delivery Gratitude is the Attitude Champion™ Sweatshirt Price C$80.56 Quick View Free delivery I'm Stuffed Turkey Hoodie Price C$68.18 Quick View Free delivery Bride to Be One-Piece Swimsuit Price C$40.91 Quick View Free delivery to U.S Stuffed Turkey Tee Price From C$27.00 Quick View Free delivery Bride To Be Weekender Bag Price C$56.00 Quick View Free delivery* Gratitude is the Attitude Hooded Zip Sweatshirt Price C$80.58 Load More Take me to the store Store / Emporium Poetry & Life Poetry & Life GO We are both published authors and poets and as you may have already seen, met on Instagram via a live poetry reading! We are passionate about our words and our community and have worked on numerous projects including building a 35k hashtag on Instagram, #closerlivespoetry. ​ We write about a range of topics but predominantly focus on love, heartbreak, spirituality, positivity and general life. Our aim is to inspire all of our readers and continue to share the power of the written word. Poetry & General Jennifer Jones Leon Gregori Latest Posts GO Jennifer: A Broad Perspective May 5 What’s in a name? The Power of Purpose and Intention There is such importance and power behind a name. I recall talking with my ex mother in law (a strong Christian) while I was pregnant... Leon Gregori Apr 17 Fusion, poetry by Leon Gregori Love ALWAYS finds a way... No matter how far down you are it will pluck you by the strings and hoist you up into the good stuff! Leon Gregori Jan 21 Woven, poetry by Leon Gregori Are we all on a pre-determined path? Is there a higher plan? Are we all inter-connected? These are the thoughts, this is the poetry! Footer (Home)

All you need to know abo ut Georgia (the country) We must confess, we did not even know that Georgia was a country prior to coming here. But we are so glad we did! We loved it so much that we actually ended up living in the coastal Black Sea city of Batumi, the country's second largest. We made a fantastic network of friends and traveled to 5 cities during our time there. We learnt so much about Georgia and its rich and diverse history, along with plenty of great places to eat, places to stay and top tips on places to visit. Come and join us... you may just be adding this wonderful country of Georgia to your bucket list after! Jump to where you want to go: Discover Interesting Facts Latest Posts Things to know YouTube Introduction to Georgia Contents Tap any photo for more info Georgia Photo Gallery Discover Our top recommended places Batumi Tskaltubo Discover Did you know Did you know... Here are a few facts about Georgia that may surprise you! ​ ✓ Georgia is said to be the home of wine with evidence of wine production dating as far back as 8000 years! ✓ One of the most ecologically diverse countries on the planet , Georgia is home to 12 different climate zones. ✓ The world’s deepest cave , Veryovkina, is in Georgia. It has a depth of 2212 metres! ✓ Locals refer to Georgia as 'Sakartvelo' . They also call themselves 'Kartveli'. ​ ✓ Joseph Stalin was born in the Georgian city of Gori. ✓ The city of Kutaisi is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. ✓ The Georgian language dates back to the 4th Century BC and is not spoken anywhere else in the world. There are 33 characters and no upper case letters at all. ✓ January 2 is known as Bedoba , the day of luck. In ancient Georgian tradition it is believed that how you spend the day is believed to determine your entire new year. ✓ Georgia celebrates Christmas on January 7th , in keeping with the Julian calendar used by the Orthodox Church. This calendar is only used for public holidays, although the New Year is celebrated on the 1st of January, as well as the 14th of January. ✓ In Georgia Dada means Mum and Mama means Dad ! No, we are not kidding! Latest Posts Latest Posts Jenn & Leon Travel Jan 13 4 min New Years Day in Georgia (the country), did you know it's on January 14th? Why does Georgia celebrate New Year today? Find out why and see our highlights from an epic night in Batumi! Plus fun facts about calendars! Jenn & Leon Travel Jan 2 2 min How to make Jägermeister Mulled Wine, we tried it in Batumi, Georgia! The recipe and taste test video for this delicious mulled wine we tried during our stroll through the Batumi Christmas Market in Georgia! Jenn & Leon Travel Oct 22, 2022 12 min Discover Tskaltubo, an urbex playground of abandoned hotels & grand sanatoriums We explore this crumbling yet alluring collection of dilapidated spa resorts and bathhouses in our first ever urbex adventure in Georgia Jenn & Leon Travel Sep 24, 2022 2 min Exploring Ex-Soviet Abandoned Hotels & Sanatoriums in Tskaltubo, Georgia (the country) Watch on YouTube our epic road trip through Georgia as we stop in Tskaltubo, the town famous for its abandoned grand hotels and sanatoriums. Jenn & Leon Travel Jul 29, 2022 7 min 10 Awesome places to check out in Batumi, Georgia (the country) Ten best things to see in Batumi including the Alphabetic Tower, Ali & Nino, Europe Square, Astronomical Clock and the Fountain of Neptune Jenn & Leon Travel Apr 7, 2022 5 min 5 reasons why you should head to Batumi, Georgia this summer Five HUGE reasons why you need to plan your summer vacation in the up-and-coming beautiful black sea coastal city of Batumi, Georgia! Things to know when visiting Georgia Things to know when visiting Georgia Here are a few stats and tips that we picked up in our time here. Let us know if there is anything we should add! ​ Total Population: 3. 7 million Capital City: Tbilisi (1.1million) Currency: Georgian Lari (GEL) Driving: Right Side Measurement Standard: Metric (km) ​ ​✓ The Georgian currency is 'lari'. Convert your currency here . ​ ✓ Smoking is acceptable in most public spaces, including while walking. ​ ✓ Taxi's are a fantastic way to get around the major cities and are very affordable. We highly recommend Bolt and Bolt Food . The service is generally excellent, although zip / post codes are not always totally reliable. ✓ Tap water is generally not drinkable in Georgia. ✓ Tipping is appreciated in most establishments although there is no general minimum amount. Aim for 10% or more. Remember that 'service charges' (which are common) do not go to the staff so a direct tip is the best way to go. ✓ The regions of South Ossetia (north of Tbilisi) and Abkhazia (bordering Russia and the Black Sea) are not safe to visit and are under Russian occupation. ✓ Google / Apple Maps are not always entirely accurate in Georgia. ✓ Magti is the top sim card provider for tourists and you can find their stores pretty much anywhere. You will need your passport, and you should be ready to go very quickly. They are also very affordable; roughly $10 USD for a month with an unlimited 4g data plan. They have a great phone app too and topping up is very easy. ✓ Driving in Georgia can be a pretty harrowing experience; Georgia has one of the worst records amongst its peers for road traffic accidents. Lack of signalling, speeding, dangerous overtaking and a lack of road safety controls make it pretty difficult. If you do choose to drive here, it is very important to remain vigilant and highly observant. ✓ Georgia is very safe and in all our time here we did not experience any issues. In fact it was recently rated the 7th safest country in the world. We would however recommend avoiding political conversations with locals (unless asked) given the country's troubled past. ✓ Almost all retailers accept payment with major cards (Visa / Mastercard) and we never had an issue with payments in the cities we visited. It is still recommended to bring cash with you though, especially if you are heading to the mountains or more obscure areas. ✓ There is a fantastic range of cuisine in Georgia, ranging from local food to many popular Western brands. Georgians are fiercely proud of their national dishes and we would highly recommend them! ✓ In some places lifts / elevators are operated by coin! You cannot use them without, unless you have a fob, so be prepared to have small change on you, especially if visiting somewhere for the first time. Discover more on YouTube Discover more on YouTube GEORGIA - the COUNTRY - Batumi Play Video Play Video 06:38 FIRST Impressions of BATUMI, Georgia & TRAVEL DAY - ISTANBUL to BATUMI The Las VEGAS of Georgia! Today we travel from Istanbul, Turkey to Batumi, Georgia after a 1 month stay....when you travel full time you can't predict how you will feel when a flight approaches and Jenn had a really bad migraine which rarely if ever happens....but the show must go on! When we arrived in Batumi we were immediately impressed by the combination of post soviet infusion with the beauty of Europe mixed together. This special country has such a history and is an amazing place for digital nomads to visit! We enjoyed a lovely dinner in the European Square one of our favourite areas of the city and our accommodations were a pleasant surprise! We are looking forward to sharing more of our adventures and explorations of this beautiful and little known country with you! #Georgia #Batumi #TravelVlog Airbnb link to this accommodation: https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/29699425?source_impression_id=p3_1655714302_PqhND1HXn%2Fl6W5CO TIME STAMPS: 00:00 Introduction 00:22 Leaving Istanbul 01:12 Time to Fly Istanbul to Batumi 01:44 Airbnb Batumi, Georgia 03:04 Istanbul in BATUMI? 03:46 Astronomical Clock Batumi, Georgia 05:10 KINO Gastro Pub Batumi, Georgia Join Cambly and Teach English like we do! To become a Tutor apply/click here to use our invite code! You can also find Leon and I here and book a lesson to practice English and/or to have a conversation together! https://www.cambly.com/invite/F6QAQ4SK?st=031522&sc=4 BUSINESS CONTACT INFO BUSINESS EMAIL - closerlives@gmail.com BUSINESS WEBSITE CloserLives - https://www.closerlives.com OUR TRAVEL BLOG – https://www.closerlives.com/jennandleontravelblog CHECK OUT OUR MERCH ETSY SHOP CloserLivesEmporium - https://www.etsy.com/ca/shop/CloserLivesEmporium?ref=seller-platform-mcnav FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM Jenn & Leon Travel https://www.instagram.com/jennandleontravel/ JENN INSTA – https://www.instagram.com/_a_broad_perspective/ LEON INSTA - https://www.instagram.com/leon.gregori213/ JENN FB - https://www.facebook.com/writingsofamrsjennifer/ LEON FB - https://www.facebook.com/leon.gregori213 Play Video Play Video 10:32 First Impressions of BEAUTIFUL Batumi / Food, the SEA, STRUCTURES & HISTORY.. GEORGIA TRAVEL VLOG Batumi, Georgia exploring many of the lovely attractions in this beautiful city. We check out the Seaport area, show you briefly some of the amazing modern buildings. We touch the sea (and almost a BLACKSEA JELLY FISH!) we sample some of our first Georgian cuisine and check out the drama theatre and the Neptune fountain. When we arrived in Batumi we were immediately impressed by the combination of post soviet infusion with the beauty of Europe mixed together. This special country has such a history and is an amazing place for digital nomads to visit! We highly recommend a visit to Georgia! Please send us all of your Georgian recommendations of places to visit, foods to try, experiences and anything else you can think of! #Georgia #Batumi #TravelVlog TIME STAMPS: 00:00 Morning Walk Batumi 00:59 Miracle Park, Batumi 01:32 Seafront Boardwalk, Batumi 02:26 Ali and Nino Batumi, Georgia 02:57 The Black Sea and some JELLY FISH 04:26 TRADITIONAL Georgian Food, Seaport Black Sea, Batumi, Georgia 06:22 Strolling the Seaport Batumi, Georgia 07:25 The Monument of ILIA CHAVCHAVADZE 08:27 Drama Theatre, Batumi 09:22 Neptune Fountain, Batumi, Georgia **If you enjoyed this video please SUBSCRIBE, like, comment and share** We have really big plans to extend our community in many ways and your help to build our reach right here at the beginning will never be forgotten! Email US: closerlives@gmail.com Website – WORK WITH US - Shop and Blog: www.closerlives.com Insta: https://www.instagram.com/jennandleontravel FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/JennandLeonTravel Play Video Play Video 11:22 ChaCha! What is THIS drink?? and let's learn how it's made! Batumi, Georgia 2022 VLOG Batumi, Georgia.... CHA CHA! This Traditional mGeorgian drink and all you you need to know about! Trust us when we say this CHACHA will make you CHACHA dance all night long. We knew and heard about the drinking culture and the wines and beers from Georgia prior to going (and not gonna lie we were quite excited about it!) However we knew little about CHACHA....but we quickly learned about the significance and prevalence of this in the Georgian culture...I mean they have a tower named after it that is said to have had ChaCha flowing through it at one point....but I have yet to determine whether this is fact or fiction!...if you know some history about the tower please DO share in the comments! Is it wine? It seems a bit of a mystery and hopefully this video will help to clarify some of those questions! Join us as we try CHACHA for our first time and trust us when we tell you....BEWARE it 'does the job' and FAST! Must TRY while in Batumi, Georgia!... In the next video we celebrate Jenn's bday with friends and some ChaCha involvement...stay tuned for what a little too much of it can do to you! lol And do check out CHACHA TIME for some amazing drinks and EXCELLENT food....we ordered from here quite often! Their Burgers are EPIC!! #batumi #batumiGeorgia #foodvlog Please send us all of your Georgian recommendations of places to visit, foods to try, experiences and anything else you can think of! **If you enjoyed this video please FOLLOW, like, comment and share** We have really big plans to extend our community in many ways and your help to build our reach right here at the beginning will never be forgotten! Chapters: 00:00 Intro CHACHA at CHACHA TIME Batumi, Georgia 00:30 Info about CHACHA in Batumi, Georgia 03:50 We try CHACHA in Batumi, Georgia 08:28 Epic BATHROOM in ChaCha Time Batumi, Georgia 09:42 Strolling OLD TOWN streets of Batumi, Georgia 11:20 Stopping in to see Sam at Mary's Pub Batumi, Georgia (now SINBIN) BUSINESS CONTACT INFO Email US: closerlives@gmail.com Website – WORK WITH US - Shop and Blog: www.closerlives.com Insta: https://www.instagram.com/jennandleontravel FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/JennandLeonTravel Play Video Play Video 06:52 Trying Traditional Georgian Food AMAZING restaurant Europe Square in Batumi, Georgia - TRAVELVLOG Batumi, Georgia. Today we enjoy the taste of traditional Georgian food and devour the delicious KINKALI - a quick favourite of ours.....these dumplings are a must try indeed and oh so affordable! We linger in the vibe of KINO a lovely restaurant in European Square in Batumi with live entertainment and some delicious cocktails and drinks. We celebrate Jenn's birthday in this episode as well! After dinner we end up with pub owner David at Popeye's Bar where we are given some free samples of their homemade Cha Cha and the night we became fast friends with Lex and Cody, who you will see in a few of our other upcoming Batumi videos. #kinkali #batumigeorgia #travelvlog Please send us all of your Georgian recommendations of places to visit, foods to try, experiences and anything else you can think of! **If you enjoyed this video please FOLLOW, like, comment and share** We have really big plans to extend our community in many ways and your help to build our reach right here at the beginning will never be forgotten! TIME STAMPS: 00:00 Kino Restaurant Batumi, Georgia 01:19 Trying Kinkali for the first time in Batumi, Georgia 04:28 Popeye's Pub Batumi, Georgia BUSINESS CONTACT INFO Email US: closerlives@gmail.com Website – WORK WITH US - Shop and Blog: www.closerlives.com Insta: https://www.instagram.com/jennandleontravel FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/JennandLeonTravel Play Video Play Video 06:38 A french KISS & a CUTE cafe in Europe Square - BATUMI, Georgia - COUPLE TRAVEL VLOG #digitalnomads Today we grab a coffee and a beautiful lunch at one of our favourite cafes in Batumi, Georgia ERTI KAVA. They have a lovely healthy menu with fresh produce and wonderful drinks and dessert....we finally catch the Neptune Fountain ON and we head for a night our for drinks and convo with our new friends Lex & Cody (from the USA) at our favourite EXPAT bar in Batumi - Mary's Pub. We also discuss and share a bit of filming for YouTube. It's very counter intuitive for us to script, stage or film...obviously we are writers and slow travellers with a spiritual draw to see as much of the ancient world as we can and have fun along the way... so the skills needed to film, edit and develop a YouTube channel is an entirely new aspect for us and also requires thought and planning and a lot of time. However we do prefer to go with the flow and show you our day to day on goings in a natural way. It's been really fun to develop our channel concept and theme....we are currently 6 months behind in our travel shares (we're working hard to catch up! we want to be current before we move to the continent of Asia) and of course we are still on the road...our filming style has adapted and changed over the past few months and we are eager to share our newer videos however we believe it best to stay in order. As always thank you for your support and encouragement we are happy to have you along on our adventures. There is plenty more to come! TIME STAMPS: 00:00 Europe Square, Batumi, Georgia 00:53 ERTI KAVA Batumi, Georgia 02:40 NEPTUNE FOUNTAIN, Batumi Georgia 03:23 Walking Old Town Streets in Batumi, Georgia 04:00 FRENCH KISS at Mary's Batumi, Georgia BUSINESS CONTACT INFO Email US: closerlives@gmail.com Website – WORK WITH US - Shop and Blog: www.closerlives.com Insta: https://www.instagram.com/jennandleontravel FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/JennandLeonTravel Please send us all of your Georgian recommendations of places to visit, foods to try, experiences and anything else you can think of! **If you enjoyed this video please FOLLOW, like, comment and share** We have really big plans to extend our community in many ways and your help to build our reach right here at the beginning will never be forgotten! Play Video Play Video 15:36 COST OF LIVING - What you can GET for $525 per MONTH!? AIRBNB Tour Batumi, Georgia #travelvlog Batumi, Georgia cost of Living Today we show you what your money can get you with our month long accommodation Airbnb apartment tour during our stay in Batumi, Georgia. We paid $525 USD for 1 month all utilities included (high speed internet, electricity, gas etc) The unit was equipped with heated towel rack, heated flooring, 2 balconies and a wide array of lighting options and impeccable finishes. A truly well designed and 'fancy' place to stay in our experience of seeing different types and styles of accommodations available in Batumi, Georgia. We highly recommend units rented by this Airbnb group for short term, hassle free renting. This unit was a very beautifully decorated studio apartment in Old Town Batumi, the place you want to be during your time in the city. It is walking distance to the sea port and all of Batumi's highlighted attractions which you can see featured in our other videos. We also show you RADIO Kitchen and Bar, a wonderful restaurant that we enjoyed and recommend in Batumi, Georgia near Europe Square! Below is the link to the Airbnb accommodation if you are interested in booking time there! #roomtour #accommodation #travelvlog TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 Introduction to Our Channel 01:49 Apartments and Airbnb's in Batumi, Georgia 04:25 Room/apartment/Airbnb Tour Batumi, Georgia 10:47 RADIO Kitchen and Bar restaurant visit and review in Batumi, Georgia 12:38 Night views from the balcony of Batumi, Georgia 12:52 Update in currently in Tirana, Albania Airbnb link: https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/29698754?source_impression_id=p3_1656139721_0h4L2g5dWyBo13l9 BUSINESS CONTACT INFO Email US: closerlives@gmail.com Website – WORK WITH US - Shop and Blog: www.closerlives.com Insta: https://www.instagram.com/jennandleontravel FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/JennandLeonTravel Please send us all of your ALBANIA recommendations of places to visit, foods to try, experiences and anything else you can think of! **If you enjoyed this video please FOLLOW, like, comment and share** We have really big plans to extend our community in many ways and your help to build our reach right here at the beginning will never be forgotten! Load More Romantic love story of two poets who found love online and now travel the world A tale told from the beginnings of heartbreak to an epic journey crossing continents and now slow travelling the world as nomads & teachers! Jenn & Leon's story at Closer Lives Check out other countries in Asia Check out other countries in Asia Cambodia India Indonesia Japan Malaysia Singapore Thailand Philippines Vietnam Jenn & Leon at Closer Lives Footer Sign up Jenn & Leon at Closer Lives We plan to see, learn, love and share as much of the world with others as possible. That is why we created CLOSERLIVES.com , to create a community for like-minded individuals and to help bring the world a little closer together through poetry, history, storytelling, healing, art, purpose and community. If you'd like to join us please sign up to our website ; the social part is still in the process of being developed but currently you are able to post, share and interact. We'd love to have you here with us! PLUS when you sign up you will receive a welcome bonus of 10% off ANYTHI NG on our site! Why not use it to treat yourself to one of our exclusive products in our store. Tap here to check out our range of nearly 300 inspirational products at Closer Lives Emporium .

A complete travel guide for Albania We traveled to Albania in June 2022 with the intention of staying here for 2 months. After our experiences in Georgia we were keen to discover more of what the Balkans has to offer. We explore the cities of Tirana and Durrës, Albania and check out things to do, as well as some of the underrated attractions that should not be missed. Great food, lovely people, beautiful beaches and seafronts; Albania should definitely be on your list! In case you did not know, we absolutely love history and Durrës in particular has some excellent places to visit in that regard, including a Roman amphitheatre! We also learn much about Albania's sad, troubled past and its recovery, shedding a whole new light on this country for us. Jump to where you want to go: Discover Interesting Facts Latest Posts Things to know YouTube Introduction to Albania Contents Tap any photo for more info Albania Photo Gallery Discover Discover Our top recommended places Archaelogical Museum Bunk'Art 2 Did you know Did you know... Here are a few facts about Albania that may surprise you! ​ ✓ As like many of its fellow Balkan countries, Albania has many castles and historical sites . ​ ✓ In 1967, Albania proclaimed to be the first atheist state in the world, although according to a 2011 survey, 61% - 80% of Albanians now identify as Muslim . ​ ✓ Albania is the 18th smallest country in Europe and ranked 145th in world standings. ​ ✓ The population of Albania is less than 3 million, 35th out of the 50 countries in Euro pe. More than half of the Albanian population actually live outside of the country. ​ ✓ True figures vary , but there is said to be a staggering 700,000 bunkers and tunnels in a country which is smaller than the U.S state of Maryland. They were built by paranoid former communist dictator Enver Hoxha, who ruled the country with a brutally oppressive regime between 1941 to 1985. ​ ✓ The Albanian language is amongst the oldest in Europe and even the world. ​ ✓ Albania was isolated from the world for nearly 50 years until the fall of the communist dictatorship in 1991. It was one of the poorest countries in Europe with mass poverty and corruption, however in recent years, owing to a rise in industry and tourism, it is now seen as an up-and-coming country in the region. ​ ✓ Over 70% of Albania is covered in mountains. ​ ✓ Albania is one of a very few countries in Europe that do not have a McDonalds. ​ ✓ Owing to over 3000 species , Albania is home to 30% of Europe's plant collection. ​ ✓ The city of Lazarat is widely touted as the 'capital of cannabis', and is the biggest exporter of cannabis in Europe. ​ ✓ Scarecrows are actually seen as a good luck charm in Albania. ​ ✓ When an Albanian agrees with you , they will shake their head. A 'nod' actually means 'no', unlike many countries where this would be the opposite. ​ ✓ Anjezë Gonxhe Bojaxhiu, aka Mother Theresa , is the heroine of Albania and the only Albanian to win a Nobel Peace Prize. ​ ✓ Albania is part of NATO and formally became a candidate to join the European Union in 2020. ​ ✓ The Albania Flag is a red, with a silhouetted black double-headed eagle in the center. The red stands for bravery, strength, valour and bloodshed, while the Eagle represents the sovereign state of Albania. Latest Posts Latest Posts Jenn & Leon Travel Jan 17 2 min Visiting Tirana in Albania? Watch this first: Pros or Cons, you decide. We spent 2 months living in the Albanian capital, check out our impressions, also cost of living including groceries and our accommodation! Jenn & Leon Travel Jan 4 5 min How to take the bus from Tirana, Albania across the border to Lake Ohrid, North Macedonia We show you how to cross this land border, useful travel tips, how to find Tirana Bus Station (it is not that easy) and bus ticket info! Jenn & Leon Travel Dec 10, 2022 7 min Tirana's Bunk'Art 2, a secret state nuclear bunker turned public museum This state bunker tells the sad story of the brutal communist regime of Albania, over 100,000 political persecutions and the 1989 revolution Jenn & Leon Travel Nov 14, 2022 5 min Archaeological Museum of Durrës, live piano trio date night! A wonderful evening enjoying the beautiful piano & violin sounds of Galan Trio, performing amongst the incredible artefacts of Durrës Museum Things to know when visiting Albania Things to know when visiting Albania Here are a few stats and tips that we picked up in our time here. Let us know if there is anything we should add! ​ Total Population: 2.86 million Capital City: Tirana (520,000) Currency: Albanian Lek (ALL) | Driving: Right Side Measurement Standard: Metric (km) ​ ⪢ Entry Requirements: There is a long list of countries that have visa-free entry into Albania and the country welcomes tourists and foreigners as a vital part of their economy. If you are allowed to enter without a visa (such as UK or EU) you can stay for a very generous 90 days, with 1 year granted to US citizens. Your passport must be valid for at least three months from the date of your arrival in Albania. However, there are some exceptions, so it is always best to check with the Albanian embassy or consulate in your country before traveling. ​ ⪢ Currency: The official currency in Albania is the Albanian Lek (ALL). It's advisable to carry some cash as credit cards are not accepted everywhere, especially in rural areas. Convert your currency here . ​ ⪢ Language: The official language is Albanian. While English is spoken in tourist areas and by younger generations, it's helpful to learn a few basic Albanian phrases to enhance your experience. ​ ⪢ Natural Beauty: Albania boasts stunning natural landscapes, including pristine beaches, picturesque mountains, and scenic lakes. Don't miss exploring the Albanian Riviera, the Albanian Alps, and Lake Ohrid. ​ ⪢ Cultural Etiquette: Albanians are known for their warm hospitality. It's customary to greet people with a handshake, maintain eye contact, and remove your shoes when entering someone's home. T he word 'besa ' works like an honour code. When you require help you can use this word, and it is respected and responded to by most Albanians. Also, known as Xhiro , Albanians typically take an evening walk every night to exercise and socialize. In many places, roads close to cars during these hours. Many people gather at various places, walking and talking until nightfall. ​ Tipping is something that is usually appreciated and anywhere between 10-15% is very acceptable. ​ ⪢ Cuisine: Albanian cuisine is a delicious blend of Mediterranean and Balkan flavors. Be sure to try local dishes like Byrek (savory pastry), Tavë Kosi (baked lamb with yogurt), and Baklava (sweet pastry). The national drink of Albania is Raki , an anise flavoured liquor popular in Eastern Europe. ​ ⪢ Public Transport: Albania has an extensive bus network that connects major cities and towns. Buses are the most common mode of public transport, and it's advisable to check the schedules in advance. Generally, it is very affordable when comparing to other European countries. ​ ⪢ Health & Safety : Albania is generally a safe country to visit. However, exercise caution in crowded areas, watch out for pickpockets, and be mindful of your belongings. In the main we felt very safe throughout our time in Albania and although there is crime, it does not typically involve foreigners. Tap water is generally deemed to be safe in Albania, however most locals still prefer bottled water, which is what we would also advise. Another point of note is that there are few garbage cans in most cities, but there is a plenty of wheelie bins. Typically these are placed in rows of 4-6 bins and service entire blocks. Sadly they have no lids and are usually very full and smelly. ​ ⪢ Smoking : Albania has one of the highest levels of smoking in Europe. An estimated 40% of Albanians smoke, and it is acceptable to smoke on the streets and in many restaurants and coffee bars. ​ ⪢ Cultural Sites: Albania is home to many historical and cultural sites. Explore the ancient city of Butrint, the UNESCO-listed city of Berat, the ruins of Apollonia, and the vibrant capital city, Tirana. Albania has a fascinating history that dates back thousands of years. It has been influenced by various civilizations, including Illyrians, Romans, Byzantines, Ottomans, and more. ​ ⪢ Dress Code : Albania is a predominantly Muslim country, but it embraces religious diversity. While there are no strict dress codes, it's respectful to dress modestly when visiting mosques or religious sites. ​ ⪢ Pub lic Facilities: W hile major cities have modern amenities, rural areas might have limited infrastructure. It's advisable to carry essentials like tissues, hand sanitizers, and bottled water with you. ​ ⪢ Affordability: The capital city of Tirana is listed 162nd for cost of living out of 227. Despite that low score, Albania as a whole is widely regarded as a comparably affordable country to live in when considering things like food, utilities and rents. ​ ⪢ Connectivity: Wi-Fi and internet access are widely available in urban areas, including major cities like Tirana, Durrës, and Shkodra. In rural and remote areas, internet availability may be more limited or slower. The coverage of Wi-Fi networks is generally good in urban centres, hotels, restaurants, cafes, and shopping malls. Many accommodations, including hotels and guesthouses, provide complimentary Wi-Fi access to their guests. ​ Mobile data coverage is also widespread in Albania, and most major cities and towns have 4G/LTE networks. Mobile data plans are available from various service providers, and SIM cards can be easily purchased for use with unlocked mobile devices. Albanian sim cards can be purchased easily and are around $10 USD for 10GB month packages. ​ Remember to check for any travel advisories or updates before your visit to stay informed about the current situation in Albania. Enjoy your trip and embrace the rich culture and natural beauty of this remarkable country! Discover more on YouTube Discover more on YouTube Check out our time in ALBANIA! Play Video Play Video 14:58 Our First Impressions of Tirana, Albania (2023) - Albania Travel Vlog In this travel vlog, we'll show you our first impressions of Tirana, Albania in 2023. We'll walk around the city, explore its historic buildings, and taste delicious local food. This video will also be helpful if you have only a day to visit! If you're planning a trip to Tirana in 2023, be sure to check out this video! We'll show you around town and give you a taste of what to expect when you visit this beautiful city. We hope you enjoy our trip and see you in Tirana! #tirana #travelvlog #albania Time Stamps 00:00 Introduction to Tirana first Impressions 02:10 Strolling the Streets of Tirana, Albania 02:32 The Ring Center, Tirana, Albania 03:57 SKANDERBEG SQUARE, Tirana, Albania 05:11 ODA Tirana, Albania 08:15 Trying Albanian RAKI for the first time 10:17 BUNK ART 2 MUSEUM Tirana, Albania 13:22 CHICO’S Tirana, Albania Play Video Play Video 16:53 Our First Impressions of DURRES Albania, Why we prefer it over Tirana 2023 In this video, we'll be exploring the city of Durrës, Albania. We'll be looking at the things to do in the city, as well as some of the underrated attractions that should not be missed. We'll also be looking at the food in the city, as well as some of the best beachfront areas to spend a day at. If you're looking for a city to explore in the Balkans, Durres should definitely be on your list. With plenty of things to do, beaches to visit, a roman infusion for history buffs this city is excellent. It's also in a great location to access many other wonderful places to visit in Albania and also the surrounding countries. We definitely prefer this city as short term base over Tirana check out the video to see why! Do you want to explore the city of Durres and experience all that it has to offer? Check out our list of things to do in Durres and be sure to explore the city by bike, on foot, or by boat. Beaches and delicious food are just a couple of the things you'll enjoy in Durres. And don't forget to explore the city for free on a weeknight! Durres is an underrated city that deserves your attention! From the beaches and restaurants to the many things to do in the city, Durrës is a great place to spend a weekend or a whole month. #albania #durres #travelvlog Play Video Play Video 08:36 How to take the bus from Tirana, Albania to Lake Ohrid, North Macedonia BORDER CROSS 4K TRAVEL VLOG! In this video, we're going to show you how to take the bus from Tirana, Albania to Lake Ohrid, North Macedonia by border crossing. This is a great way to see the beautiful Lake Ohrid and the Macedonian countryside! If you're looking for a budget-friendly way to see the Macedonian countryside, then this is the video for you! We'll show you how to take the bus from Tirana through the border crossing and onto to Ohrid. This is a great way to travel to North Macedonia. We HIGHLY recommend a visit to Lake Ohrid if yo are in the Albania area! It truly is spectacular! #tirana #travelvlog #ohrid Airbnb link for our stay in Ohrid if you'd like to book it as well. Please note we make no money from this we just like to share our adventures! https://www.airbnb.co.uk/rooms/34074761?source_impression_id=p3_1672709746_dbye2XkyJTz17Z5M WhatsApp for Taxi Tirana and to elsewhere in the country! Just ask him about flat rate fees! CITY TAXI ALBANIA: 355699999111 (albania country code) Play Video Play Video 16:54 Visit TIRANA? WATCH THIS FIRST: PROS or CONS? YOU DECIDE. local Albania Travel Vlog l 2023 4k In this video, we'll give you a VISUAL overview of what it's like LIVING as a LOCAL in the city of Tirana, from the 'pros' to the 'cons'. It's all relative though isn't it!? After WATCHING, it's up to YOU to decide if you want to visit! AND please do LET US KNOW in the comments your thoughts! If you're thinking about visiting or staying short term/long term or even MOVING to the beautiful city of Tirana, Albania, then be sure to watch this first! In this video, we'll give you a detailed overview of the city, from the cost of living to the local culture. We'll also include a walking tour to give you a better idea of what to expect while you're there AND we will even leave a link to our AirBnb so you can have the EXACT experience that we had...neighbourhood, accommodations and all! After watching this video, it's up to you to decide if you want to visit or move to Tirana! So make sure you watch it before you go, so that you know! And also take a look at our other videos from this extraordinary country! Airbnb link: https://www.airbnb.co.uk/rooms/41456324?source_impression_id=p3_1673706841_%2FHr%2BmCYhphUxNCpG #travelvlog #albaniatravel #tiranavlog Visit TIRANA? WATCH THIS FIRST: PROS or CONS? YOU DECIDE. Know BEFORE you GO local 2023 4k Romantic love story of two poets who found love online and now travel the world A tale told from the beginnings of heartbreak to an epic journey crossing continents and now slow travelling the world as nomads & teachers! 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