There are many interesting blogs about the Philippines, written by both foreigners and Filipinos. Many share stories and pictures of beautiful places and islands, but an important part of the culture is the Filipino food.
Mimi Gonzales, a Filipina from the island of Cebu, is the creator of the blog chasingbleu.net. Her blog houses aesthetic and mouth watering pictures of food and desserts in the cafes and restaurants that she visited. Chasing Bleu started as a food blog, but now Mimi also writes and documents her travels and adventures. Mimi won the award for Best Food Blog in Cebu in 2016, and agreed to share with us, the story behind her blog, and her thoughts about the Philippines.
Mimi Gonzales with her award for best food blog in Cebu 2016. Picture from: https://www.bestcebublogsawards.com/2016/11/Best-Cebu-Blogs-Awards-2016-Winners.html
How did your blog start? And what is the purpose of your blog?
“One day in 2015, I got my first ever smartphone when I was in college – a cheap and slightly functional Cherry Mobile phone. My boyfriend and I would eat around restaurants, take pictures, and I like sharing my reviews with friends. That is when I decided that I wanted to create a blog where I could share informational contents, coupled with food photographs that will make your mouth drool. Food has been the main subject of my blog, but a couple of months later then I started travel writing as well and has expanded my reach to readers even outside of Cebu.
I guess the purpose of my blog was primarily to share my experiences, to help other Foodie-Travelers make the most out of their every trip by providing informational and noteworthy reviews and recommendations, and lastly, improve my craft in writing and digital marketing.”
What is your favorite type of food, and what is your favorite restaurant, and why?
“This is a tough one! I have always loved Mediterranean food, but it is quite expensive here. I will always love Pinoy food – lechon, adobo, sinigang, sisig, kaldereta, paksiw – everything! My favorite restaurant usually varies depending on what I crave. I do not have an extensive list of extreme favorites and dislikes because I love food, and I love eating!”
One of the many beautiful pictures from Mimi’s blog chasingbleu.net
What is the most important thing to you when writing about the Philippines, what do you focus on?
“When writing about places in the Philippines, I touch more on the beauty and uniqueness of each place, why every person must visit here, being up-close with the locals as much as possible, activities that help their respective communities thrive, as well as budget-friendly accommodations!”
What is your favorite island/place in the Philippines, and why?
“So far, it is Bohol. I have not seen the entirety of the place yet, but I imagine it would be quite an adventure! While Cebu has all these beautiful beaches, Bohol’s Balicasag Island made me want to live on an island forever. I wish to see Romblon, Batanes, and more of Mindanao’s hidden gems and beautiful spots.”
What do you like most about the Philippines, and why?
“While there are a lot of frustrations that come with this country, I think the Philippines attracts people all over the world because of its heartwarming people, scenic natural resources in the form of mountains and beaches, and its rich, cultural experience like no other.”
If you could change one thing about the Philippines, what would it be?
“I wish that it was easy to change the government system, but we have a long way to go with that. If I could change one thing, I would eliminate the rampant poverty that buries this country to misery, so that there would not be street people everywhere, feeling hopeless and beat with hunger.”
Do you try to travel sustainably, if so, how?
“Yes! I try to reduce my plastic use as much as possible when I travel – bring reusable bags and BPA-free water bottles instead. Also, when checking in into a hotel, I avoid unnecessary use of electricity – if possible, we utilize fan rooms instead of air-conditioned ones, use the TV less, (it is more fun to walk around outside and discover new places), turn off all lights and electricity when heading out, etc. Lastly, I say NO to buying wildlife products (shells, corals, fur) and I do not support animal exploitation!”
What advice would you give to people traveling to the Philippines for the first time?
“Enjoy what the Philippines has to offer as much as you can! Do not hesitate to ask for help from the locals – most of the time, they would gladly accommodate you. The streets are not always safe, so take caution and be aware of your surroundings always. Our transportation system is inefficient (sadly) and traffic is bad (ugh), so ease up, and just go with the flow.”
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