A Letter to 2018


Thank you for the 365 days that we've shared together. It was really a memorable one. I was quite busy this year due to work-related stuff but I managed to squeeze in several local trips. Regardless, I made sure that I have a grand trip with my family too, hence we had a 22-day vacation in Japan as the highlight of this year's travels.

Let's look back and see what milestones we've crossed and achieved this year.


1. This year, there were 76 published articles (fewer than last year 😢). 

2. I have reached 1.7 million views. 

 3. I was invited to promote a beautiful resort in Taal, Batangas.

4. Several articles and photographs were published in several magazines.

5. I got to travel back to Japan with my family and also visit several new destinations in the Philippines this year.

Speaking of travels, here are the highlights of my travels for each month last year:

January
(None)

February

(None)

March

Articles published in TravelPlus Magazine

Promotional trip to Abby's Garden Taal, Batangas

Cavite Loop Visita Iglesia

April
(None)

May

Mt. Sawi, Gabaldon Nueva Ecija
Plaridel Bulacan Sidetrip

Osaka exploration

5-day Kyoto Adventure

Awaji Island (Hyogo Prefecture)- Naruto Whirlpool (Tokushima Prefecture) viewing trip

Shirahama Beach Day Tour - Wakayama Prefecture

Revisiting Universal Studios Japan


June

Gifu-Nagano Road Trip

A mini trip to Inunakisan to visit Shipporyuji

One day exploration of Kobe City

July

(None)

August

(None)

September

(None)

October

Talita Kumi (Alfonso, Cavite) Student Seminar


November
La Verti Residences Ella - Daddy bonding time

December

Acienda Designer Outlet Yearend Shopping trip. 


With this, I'm sure 2019 won't disappoint. Again, thanks a lot 2018!

 Sincerely yours,
Neil Alvin Nicerio
The Backpack Adventures
Location: Bacoor, Cavite, Philippines

Comments

  1. Belle-MarieJanuary 1, 2019 at 6:16 PM

    Wow. You've done amazingly. And the view count is crazy. Well done.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Neil Alvin NicerioJanuary 8, 2019 at 7:32 AM

      Thank you Belle-Marie. I hope you had a fantastic 2018 as well. =)

      Delete
  2. Old TomJanuary 1, 2019 at 7:27 PM

    1.7 million views! That’s amazing. I’d love to achieve the .7 of that.

    Congrats.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Neil Alvin NicerioJanuary 8, 2019 at 7:35 AM

      You can do it Old Tom. =) Just keep on writing what you're passionate about and for sure you'd get a following for that.

      Delete
  3. NohailaJanuary 1, 2019 at 7:49 PM

    I'm really thankful too to what I've learned from 2018 and I'm really excited to start 2019 😍

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Neil Alvin NicerioJanuary 10, 2019 at 7:18 AM

      That's great. I hope our 2019 presents us with more success.

      Delete
  4. FamilySurvivalJanuary 1, 2019 at 9:02 PM

    Wow! You are my blogging goal person. It’s amazing all you have been able to accomplish in a year. I look forward to seeing more.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Neil Alvin NicerioJanuary 10, 2019 at 7:19 AM

      Thank you so much. I hope I get to "infect" you with success this year.

      Delete
  5. alysworldsJanuary 1, 2019 at 9:17 PM

    Sounds interesting I love travel blogs espically when they give tips

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Neil Alvin NicerioJanuary 10, 2019 at 7:19 AM

      Thanks so much. Please do visit my blog for more articles this year.

      Delete
  6. myweethoughtJanuary 1, 2019 at 9:36 PM

    Wow! Keep up the good work! I love how travel blogs helps a lot of travelers.

    ReplyDelete
  7. LisaJanuary 2, 2019 at 2:08 AM

    Wow what a great year of travel you've had! Wishing you an even more prosperous one in the new year ahead!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Neil Alvin NicerioJanuary 10, 2019 at 7:20 AM

      Thank you so much Lisa. May you have a prosperous 2019 as well. =)

      Delete
  8. TheZenFashionistaJanuary 2, 2019 at 7:26 AM

    It looks to me like a successful and fulfilling year! Here’s to 2019 being more abundant and full of everything you want!

    ReplyDelete
  9. Sanjota PurohitJanuary 2, 2019 at 8:47 AM

    That's amazing! Glad you found the way to be happy with blogging along with managing time to spend with your family. I wish you to achieve more milestones in 2019 :)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Neil Alvin NicerioJanuary 10, 2019 at 7:21 AM

      Thank you so much Sanjota! Looking forward to a great 2019. =)

      Delete
  10. Ivan JoseJanuary 2, 2019 at 7:23 PM

    Congratulations for the successful year! More success to you this year.

    ReplyDelete
  11. revelerJanuary 2, 2019 at 7:27 PM

    Congratulations on your achievements.....you did a great job....I learned so much from your travel....keep it up.....

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Neil Alvin NicerioJanuary 10, 2019 at 7:22 AM

      Thank you so much reveler for visiting my blog a lot last year.

      Delete
  12. chadden2001January 2, 2019 at 8:29 PM

    I'm glad I'm not the only one who wrote a letter to 2018. I loved looking through your travel highlights, can't wait to see more of your adventures this year.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Neil Alvin NicerioJanuary 11, 2019 at 7:03 AM

      Thank you so much Chadden. From one blogger to another Happy New Year!

      Delete
  13. Honest ReaderJanuary 3, 2019 at 5:47 AM

    You have gotten to travel to such incredible places. What a great review of 2018.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Neil Alvin NicerioJanuary 11, 2019 at 7:04 AM

      Thank you so much Honest Reader. Praying for another great adventure this year!

      Delete
  14. Eliz FrankJanuary 3, 2019 at 6:16 AM

    To one of the nicest bloggers I know, congratulations on your successes. Wishing you many more in 2019!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Neil Alvin NicerioJanuary 11, 2019 at 7:05 AM

      Thank you so much. =) Wishing you a successful 2019 as well. =)

      Delete
  15. RupyJanuary 3, 2019 at 11:12 PM

    You have had a good year of 2018. I wish this year brings happiness and new opportunities to you.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Neil Alvin NicerioJanuary 11, 2019 at 4:12 PM

      Yes it did. Thank you so much. I hope your 2018 brought you happiness as well. =)

      Delete
  16. Everything on a plateJanuary 3, 2019 at 11:12 PM

    What lovely photos! What do you click with?

    ReplyDelete
  17. UnknownJanuary 4, 2019 at 12:15 AM

    I can make out that 2018 happened to be most adventurous for you !!! Your pictures are beautiful !!!
    Keep rockin !!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Neil Alvin NicerioJanuary 11, 2019 at 4:14 PM

      Thank you so much Hiking Singh. =) It really is an adventure-filled year. I hope your 2018 rocked as well. =)

      Delete
  18. EmilioJanuary 4, 2019 at 4:53 AM

    Loved reading about your 2018! Congrats on all the success :)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Neil Alvin NicerioJanuary 14, 2019 at 7:13 AM

      Thank you for being an avid reader Emilio. See you in my articles this 2019.

      Delete
  19. DanielleJanuary 4, 2019 at 9:21 AM

    That is so amazing! So much to be proud of from this past year.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Neil Alvin NicerioJanuary 14, 2019 at 9:10 AM

      That's true Danielle. My 2018 was truly amazing. Thank you.

      Delete
  20. siennylovesdrawingJanuary 4, 2019 at 10:04 AM

    Yeah!! Love all your personal sharing here, let's continue to enjoy 2019, Happy New Year 2019 ya :D
    cheers, siennylovesdrawing

    ReplyDelete
  21. FolabestJanuary 4, 2019 at 11:43 PM

    Those achievements are really amazing but I wish you more and greater ones this year.

    ReplyDelete
  22. UnknownJanuary 13, 2019 at 9:56 AM

    Good for you... Keep that up Neil. Hope new year will bring you more success. Happy 2019!!

    ReplyDelete
  23. BrandiJanuary 23, 2019 at 2:45 AM

    WOW! 2018 was a big year for you, congrats! I wish you the best of luck in 2019.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Neil Alvin NicerioJanuary 23, 2019 at 9:45 AM

      Thank you so much Brandi! May you have a great 2019 as well.

      Delete

Post a Comment

Book your hotel thru KLOOK

Klook.com
Subscribe and get updated with the latest travel articles of The Backpack Adventures

Popular posts from this blog

Imus City Plaza - Cavite

Image
Located in the center of the Poblacion or town proper of Imus City in the province of Cavite, Imus City Plaza is one of the city's scenic and historical attractions. Imus City Plaza Imus City Plaza Details This plaza is located in front of the equally historical Imus Cathedral and Imus City Hall . Imus City Plaza is also the first place to greet you if you're heading to the cathedral via Sapinoso Street.  Imus City Plaza - Imus City, Cavite General Licerio Topacio The general guarding the flag Checking out each angle of the monument Imus City Plaza History Imus City Plaza is probably easily remembered because of the monument with two vintage artillery flanking it. The monument stands as an honor to the children of Imus who joined the fight for the independence of the country against Spain. As for the man standing on top of the monument, he is General Licerio Topacio . He is one of the most notable sons of Imus. He is famously known for honorably declinin...
Keep reading

Sapporo Grand Hotel - Hokkaido

Image
Sapporo Grand Hotel ( 札幌グランドホテル ) is a historic 4-star hotel in the heart of Sapporo City. It is located at 4 Chome Kita 1 Jonishi, Chuo Ward, Sapporo City in Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan . Sapporo Grand Hotel Sapporo Grand Hotel details Located in the heart of Sapporo's vibrant Chūō district, the Sapporo Grand Hotel is a testament to elegance and history. Dating back to 1928, the hotel's conception was sparked by Prince Chichibu's vision during a skiing excursion, recognizing the need for Western-style lodging in the city. Four years later, in 1934, its majestic doors swung open, marking the dawn of a new era in hospitality. Sapporo Grand Hotel - Sapporo City, Hokkaido Prefecture Upon its inauguration, the Sapporo Grand Hotel soared as the city's tallest edifice, commanding attention with its imposing stature. Embraced by the Japanese Imperial Army as a strategic locale for military maneuvers in the 1930s, the hotel swiftly became an integral part of Sapporo's land...
Keep reading

10 More Things to Do in Sapporo City

Image
10 More Things to Do in Sapporo City Sapporo City ( 札幌市 ) is one of the places in Hokkaido that has a lot to offer. That's why In this article, I will share with you 10 More Things to Do in Sapporo City . If you missed reading my article about the " 10 Things to Do in Sapporo City " then please click this 👉 LINK 👈. Tanukikoji Shopping Street 1. Go shopping or restaurant hopping on Tanukikoji Shopping Street  ( 狸小路商店街 ). There are over 200 outlets and restaurants to try out or shop from. Sapporo Beer Museum 2. Go to the  Sapporo Beer Museum  ( サッポロビール博物館 ) and learn about the world-famous Sapporo Beer . Don’t forget to buy some souvenirs at the souvenir shop. If you have the time and budget then you may also opt for the tour and free tasting experience. Shiroi Koibito Park 3. Visit Shiroi Koibito Park  ( 白い恋人パーク ). If you love chocolates and cookies, then this place is a must-visit. You can watch how their famous cookies are made. If you have an extra budget, don’...
Keep reading

Myozenji - Gifu

Image
Located in 679 Ogi-machi, Shirakawago in Gifu Prefecture, Myozenji  ( 明善寺 ) is a historic religious establishment found in the historic village of Shirakawago .  Myozenji  ( 明善寺 ) Myozenji History Myozenji Temple was established in 1748 to provide the village people with a place to practice their religion and also to give spiritual protection to the village. For half a century,  the small temple  housed the mo nks who catered untiringly to the spiritual needs of the locals. In 1800, the temple was finally improved with the construction of the main hall, monk's residence, and the bell tower gate. Myozenji - Shirakawago, Gifu Prefecture Myozenji's Hondo Myozenji's bell tower Myozenji is surrounded by nature. Check out this small frog I saw near the temple ...and this lizard too! What makes the Myozenji unique is its thatched roof which uses the same materials as that of the famed gassho-style houses of the village. Like the t...
Keep reading

Shoboji and Gifu Daibutsu - Gifu

Image
Located in 8 Daibutsu-cho Gifu City in Gifu Prefecture, Shoboji ( 正法寺 )  is known as the temple which houses one of the three largest Daibutsu or Great Buddha statues in Japan . Shoboji   ( 正法寺 ) Shoboji and Gifu Daibutsu History Officially named Kinpouzan Shobouji (Temple) and also called Shohoji , Shoboji was first established in 1638. It joined the Obaku school in 1692. Although the temple incorporated many aspects of the Obaku school, its architectural style and sacraments are in the Chinese style.  Shoboji - Gifu City, Gifu Prefecture Shoboji as seen from the road Buy your entrance ticket here. It's only 200 yen. Here's what appears to be a tsukubai but could also be a chozubachi or purification font As was already written, Shoboji houses one of the largest statues of Buddha in Japan. It was the 11th head priest of the temple, Ichyuu (Ichu) who planned for the construction of Gifu's Great Buddha in 1790. Sadly, he never saw the completed Bud...
Keep reading

Patungan Beach - Cavite

Image
Located in Barangay Sta. Mercedes (Patungan) in Maragondon , Cavite, Patungan Beach is one of the province's little-known beach destinations. It is situated inside Patungang Cove which is south of Mt. Palay Palay which is also known as Pico de Loro . Patungan Beach Patungan Beach Details The area near Patungan Beach is home to about 100 - 200 families, most of which are fishermen hence the alternate name of the barangay - Patungan Fishing Village . According to the locals that I interviewed, their place was once an isolated  barangay , reachable only by boat, horse, or foot. Thankfully, with the completion of the  Nasugbu - Ternate Highway  and  Kaybiang Tunnel , the barangay was finally connected to the province. However, there is still no direct public transportation system that serves the area coming from Manila.  Patungan Beach - Maragondon, Cavite The beach from a distance Check out these photos of Patungan Beach: Just a heads up, ...
Keep reading

Caleruega Transfiguration Chapel - Batangas

Image
Located in Nasugbu in the province of Batangas, Caleruega Transfiguration Chapel is the most photographed part of the Caleruega Retreat Center.  Caleruega Transfiguration Chapel Caleruega Transfiguration Chapel details Also known as the Hilltop Chapel , Caleruega Transfiguration Chapel is actually a replica of the original chapel of the Dominican Order in Caleruega, Spain. The chapel is a famous spot for prenuptial photo shoots and weddings. The chapel could accommodate around 200 people (bride, groom, and priest included.)  What I like about the chapel is the way it becomes one with nature yet stands out among its surroundings.  Caleruega Transfiguration Chapel - Nasugbu, Batangas The beautiful brick facade is ideal for your prenup pics Caleruega Transfiguration Chapel facade Caleruega Transfiguration Chapel is also starting to gain fame among the pilgrims. However, getting to its location is quite challenging. Aside from some inaccurate details p...
Keep reading

Japan Diaries 4: Weekend 60

Image
Weekend 60: December 24 – 25, 2022 Day 418: December 24, 2022 Saturday – Flight to Osaka This is it! Day 1 of our 2022 -2023 Winter Vacation. Day 1 starts at Sapporo Grand Hotel in Sapporo City, Hokkaido Prefecture Breakfast at Northern Terrace of Sapporo Grand Hotel We started it by having a scrumptious breakfast feast at the  Northern Terrace of Sapporo Grand Hotel . I didn’t miss out on the salmon sashimi and the different desserts. Looking for omiyage at The Bakery and Pastry We had a great time at Sapporo Grand Hotel . Until next time! Before checking out, we bought omiyage for our Japanese family in  The Bakery and Pastry  which is also inside the hotel. Bought tickets at Sapporo JR Station to board the train going to New Chitose Airport We walked back to  Sapporo JR Station  from the  Sapporo Grand Hotel  and then boarded the Rapid Express train from Sapporo JR Station to  Shin Chitose Station in Chitose City ( 千歳市 ) . Christmas feels...
Keep reading

Embetsu Shrine Revisited Winter 2022

Image
On August 12, 2022 , during my 41st week in Japan as an ALT under the JET Programme , my family and I had the pleasure of visiting Embetsu Shrine for the first time as part of our five-day "Drive Up North" Road Trip . Later, on December 22, 2022 , I had the opportunity to revisit the shrine. What made this return visit particularly special was experiencing it during the winter season. Intrigued by how the shrine would be transformed by snow, I made the trip after finishing my duties at Embetsu Agricultural High School . As expected, the shrine exuded a captivating charm, its grounds adorned in a blanket of snow, truly a magical sight to behold. Embetsu Shrine Revisited Winter 2022 Embetsu Shrine details ( Winter ) For those who weren’t able to read my previous article about Embetsu Shrine , you might want to click this 👉 LINK 👈 to read about the history of the shrine. Regardless, here’s a summary of it. Embetsu Shrine - Embetsu town, Hokkaido Prefecture Embetsu Shrine ...
Keep reading

Shirakawago - Gifu

Image
Located in Gifu Prefecture, Shirakawago ( 白川郷 ) is a famous historical mountain village in the northwestern part of the Hida Region.  Shirakawago   ( 白川郷 ) Shirakawago History The name Shirakawa   is taken from the traditional Japanese name of the region during ancient times.  Throughout time the region and its territories were reorganized and renamed. The name Shirakawa was then taken by the small mountain village which would then be included in the present-day Hida Region.  Shirakawago 's history dates back to around 1176 when its name first appeared in historical texts. However, artifacts like pottery which dates back to 7000-2300 BCE were excavated in the area.  Shirakawago - Gifu Prefecture Shirakawago as seen from Ogimachi Castle Ruin Observation Deck Check out the manhole cover of Shirakawago ! Gassho-style houses near paddy fields When the silk and gunpowder industry flourished in the village during the Edo era, the locals start...
Keep reading