Binibining Pilipinas 2008

Janina San Miguel, a contestant for the Binibining Pilipinas 2008, won Miss World despite a hideously grotesque blunder: She only managed to mangle her English on national stage.

Nakakahiya (translation: embarrassing). And this is an outrage.

San Miguel, who won two of the major awards on the same event -- Best in Long Gown and Best in Swimsuit – will advance to represent the Philippines at the international level. Oh, boy.

Let me be clear about one thing. A beauty pageant is a competition based on intelligent responses, not only on physical beauty, talent, and personality. So, why the hell did she still win?!?

It makes me wonder whether the other contestants were so bad that the event's judges couldn't choose a better person to represent us. But I don't think that's the case.

This whole thing just baffles me.

San Miguel, whose confidence border arrogance, also seemed to take great pleasure for her lack of knowledge of the English language. The fact that she’s a college student from a rather prestigious university doesn’t bode well, either.

I feel deeply embarrassed just watching the clip. It’s like a slow train wreck waiting to happen. The only thing is it did!

And then, it didn't.

Salzburg, Austria

Salzburg’s well-preserved structures that complement its breath-taking mountain backdrop make this city a must for extensive sightseeing. Not only is it easy to find your way around, but you will never run out of places to discover.

My wife and I stumbled upon the Mirabell Gardens, the famous backdrop for the “Sound of Music.” Before we knew anything, we were purchasing tickets for the “Sound of Music” tour. We’re also no mountain climbers, but I dare say we got intimate with Untersberg Mountain.

We even had a wonderful time trying not to get wet at the “trick fountains” at the Hellbrunn Palace despite the fact that it was already raining down hard that morning and we were already soaked.

In all its glory, and this might sound ridiculous, the one thing that I really found quite irresistible about this city was the apfel strudel. Everywhere we went, I had this strong urge to devour this wonderful dessert. I must have consumed thousands of calories, but I have no regrets.

It's been almost a year since I saw Salzburg, but I still catch my mind wandering off to this inspiring city from time to time. I know if I just close my eyes long enough, I can once again bask in it.

Prague

I've only seen a handful of European cities. Prague has been the most breathtaking, so far. Day or night, the city was stunning.

I really enjoyed the city's unique personality, its magical views, and trendy cafes. I also took pleasure in walking around different cities in Europe, but wandering around Prague was an absolute pleasure.

Enjoyable late night strolls. Captivating classical concerts. Quiet romantic restaurants.

I experienced them all in Prague.

Paris

I loved Paris.

Contrary to the popular belief that Parisians are smug, my experience with them is just the opposite. I thought they were friendly, helpful, and courteous. Upon our arrival, my wife and I got lost looking for our accommodation. A French lady who couldn't even speak English helped us out.

But that's not all. The locals, such as the restaurant owners and shop keepers, were all friendly and accommodating. I have to say I can't say the same about the New Yorkers.

Nevertheless, Paris is a great city for sight-seeing and aimless wandering. I couldn't help but notice right away the magnificence of its monuments and structures.

Below are the images of Eiffel Tower before sunset, Arc de Triomphe, and Louvre Pyramid.



Another popular landmark in Paris is the Sacre-Coeur Basilica.

A local painter does his own rendition of the church.

Notre Dame is considered one of the finest examples of French Gothic architecture.



Two of the many intricate sculptures located in the vast gardens of Versailles.




A bird's eye view of Paris taken from the Eiffel Tower. With a population of 12 million, Paris is one of the most heavily populated cities in Europe.

Rome

Seeing Rome for the first time really amazed me. The intimacy that exists between the ruins and today's Rome has formed the city's impressive charm. Haphazard, yet orderly, its chaotic structures seemed to whisper into my ears to remind me about its turbulent past and absolute triumph.

Below is the magnificent Roman Colosseum and its ghostly arena.

The blending of ancient and modern Rome is what makes its history and culture even richer and fuller.

The opulence of the Roman Catholic Church is displayed here by the great splendor of the Vatican City.



St. Peter's Basilica and its dramatic rays of light.

England

When I think about my inception to European travel, I think about London. This was my first taste of European city, and I was immediately captivated.

When I think of London, I think of the cold weather. But it also reminds me of its vibrance, stylish fashion trends, high brow culture, fine dining, bustling department stores, pubs, street performers, and West End.

There are so many sights to see. Even galleries and musuems don't have cover charges.

Below are London's photos of its breathtaking architecture, taken from the famous London Eye, also known as the Millenium Wheel. Perched just beneath the London Eye is River Thames, the Houses of Parliament, and the Clock Tower.






Stonehenge in Salisbury. Archaeologists believe this prehistoric monument was erected around 2200 BC. The mystery surrounding these mythical stones still dominate the great minds of today.





Bath is another "must see" destination. Below are the photos of the hot springs of the Roman temple Aquae Sulis, River Avon, and a park with beautiful flower displays.