The kalesa is an old form of transportation that has survived up to the present and is a common tourist attraction in the old Manila area. I’ve ridden on them a few times and so have my son, so looking at this before and after picture makes me realize some of the changes in its design.

Just like houses may change while their address sign remain the same, I hope that the humble Kalesa will survive for more generations to enjoy the feeling of bio transportation. And I also hope that these Kalesa drivers and owners learn to take care of their horses.

Recently, my wife’s friend left her husband’s guitar for me to take care of. Since I am a musician and wish to collect guitars I immediately said yes. I didn’t know what kind of guitar they were lending so I was waiting in anticipation.

When I finally saw it I was in awe. It was an expensive bass guitar. The owner loved it so much that the guitar does not have one but two cases! I can understand why because I know how precious his collection is to him.

I’m sure the owner of a rare 1927 silver dollar would also feel the same way as we guitar collectors do. That’s why while he’s away I vow to take care of his precious musical equipment as if it were my own.

When I was younger our house was built near a rice field which is also called “bukid”. And we normally see a Kalabaw or carabao helping out farmers as well as cows and goats. Two decades later having gone back to the same house that I grew up on, its sad to see our street and our area full of houses – to the point that there are very few trees. The once lush green rice field where kalabaws work are now stone houses and streets.

My son was even surprised when he saw a carabao in person while vacationing at Bohol. I felt sad because he did not experience the same old school childhood as I did.

We experience a different kind of service with Dao Diamond Hotel. Since they support deaf students, they also employ qualified deaf personnel making the hotel elegantly quiet. At first it will feel awkward when you are trying to make sign language to ask for things but soon you will understand a little bit of their sign language and you will appreciate the professionalism and hospitality that they offer.

The hotel also looks real nice, with its laminate flooring, wonderful displays and Polynesian theme. Highly recommended in case you need a place to stay in Tagbilaran Bohol.