Just like that, November has arrived again — my birthday month. This year is extra special because I turned 50 over the weekend. In the past, my birthdays meant hopping on a plane, planning itineraries, and squeezing in as much adventure as possible. But this time, I craved something simpler, quieter, and gentler. So instead of traveling far, I chose a staycation.
No airports, no packing stress, no leaving my cats for too long. Just rest, comfort, and a chance to fall in love with my own city again — as if seeing it through the eyes of an excited Manila tourist discovering Iloilo for the first time.
Why a Staycation? Turning 50 with Intention
Maybe it’s age, or maybe experience finally settling in — but there’s a different kind of joy in choosing ease. There’s comfort in familiar surroundings, in knowing your way around, and in realizing that home can still surprise you when you slow down enough to notice.
And I’m glad I did.
Checking In at Sam’s 21 Hotel
I chose Sam’s 21 Hotel along Benigno Aquino Avenue — a newly built hotel that instantly impressed. The place is sparkling clean (Japan-level standards), modern, and tastefully designed.
From my room, I enjoyed a lovely dual view: the lively flow of the highway and the hotel’s indoor pool shimmering under soft lights. Outside, the street lamps were already dressed in oversized Christmas parols, reminding me that the Ber months are in full swing. In a few weeks, this whole stretch will glow with holiday lights — and I’m already tempted to come back for a December staycation just to see it all lit up.
Cozy Comforts and Cat Videos (Because Yes, Self-Care)
The room gave off a mini-Richmonde Hotel vibe — plush bed, relaxing ambient lighting, and a cozy space perfect for dinner, journaling, and slowing down. I brought my Takamine travel guitar for company, and the large TV kept me entertained with AI cat videos (Jiji Black Cat and Ginger’s Diary are my current favorites).
There was something incredibly freeing about sinking into a queen-sized bed with no clingy cats kneading my chest, no chores calling my name, and no noise demanding my attention. For a few hours, I got to save myself from the fate of Ophelia, just like in that new Taylor Swift song — choosing peace over chaos.
A Birthday Walk, a Gift to Myself, and Iloilo at Night
After sunset, I took a short walk to a nearby mall to grab dinner, pastries, and a little birthday treat for myself — a wireless Miniso keyboard for my tablet (practical, cute, and well-deserved!).
What I loved most? The walk. This part of Iloilo is surprisingly walkable, especially at night. Under warm street lamps, I noticed joggers, cyclists, and people out enjoying the breeze. It reminded me that Iloilo is, at its core, a city that invites you to slow down and move.
Sunshine, Coffee, and the Esplanade
The next morning welcomed me with bright sunshine — the kind that practically begs you to go outside. I walked to the Iloilo River Esplanade to watch local fishermen catching tilapia from the river’s thriving ecosystem.
Before that, I stopped at Drip Café for breakfast. The tapa was just okay, but the Flat White made up for everything — smooth, strong, and exactly the caffeine boost I needed.
A Mini Escape that Felt Big
It was only an overnight stay, but it felt like a reset — a soft reboot of the mind, heart, and soul. Sometimes, we don’t need grand trips to feel renewed. Sometimes, all we need is a clean room, quiet space, good coffee, and a different view of our own city.
And I’ll definitely do it again the next time life feels too loud.
Fifty Feels Different — and I Love It
So here’s to 50 — a milestone that feels grounded, freeing, and quietly amazing. If this is the energy of the new decade of my life, I’ll take it with open arms.
Happy birthday to me.
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