Mercury Rising Archives - Manila Standard

How Philippines became a go-to retirement haven for foreign nationals

The Philippine Retirement Authority (PRA), a government-owned and controlled corporation, was created through Executive Order 1037, signed by former President Ferdinand E. Marcos, Sr.,...

Trekking the rooftop of the world

Shrouded in mystery and magic, the Himalayan Kingdom has always been attractive to me, but I could never include it as a side trip...

Reconnecting with the Panhandle State

Florida is often referred to as the Panhandle State simply because, if you view the continental USA on the map as a distorted frying...

Pitching paradise

PRA promotes Philippine retirement life in Tampa The last time I made quick trips to the USA was when I was still running the Northwest...

Thrilled by a ‘Bayside’ reverie

Every time I am by the bay, I always get fascinated by the soothing sound of lashing waves on the shore, while the fresh...

Enjoying the unique offerings of Belmont Hotel

I never leave town during the Holy Week holidays because Metro Manila is the best place to be in… no traffic… the city is...

A fresh look at Puerto Princesa’s best-kept secrets

“Puerto Princesa…where nature begins and never ends!” Reading this city’s tagline from the brochures, I conk myself on the head for not having taken...