Destination: Camarines Sur

SPOTTED

Trixie Adviento Odiamar

Trixie was born, raised and proudly resides in Naga City, Camarines Sur. Inspired by Mount Isarog—a majestic, biodiverse volcano and protected national park—she founded Isarog Beauty Botanics, a pili oil–based skincare line rooted in Philippine botanicals and folk healing traditions. This year, she debuts “Tabi, Apo!,” a bilingual children’s book that connects the next generation to nature and the cultural heritage of Mount Isarog.

BEST PLACE TO EAT:

CANARIUM. For an intimate treat with friends or family, I always enjoy Canarium. They offer a thoughtfully curated 3- or 5-course menu by skilled young chef Phoebe Dy that lovingly honors her Bikolano family traditions, showcases underutilized and seasonal ingredients — and celebrates the rich, expressive essence of pili — a treasure we Bikolanos are truly proud of. Trivia: The name “Canarium” comes from Canarium ovatum, the scientific name of the pili tree

BEST PLACE TO HANG OUT:

Beans and Bottles. Behind a specialty coffee shop—famous for its caffe latte, sea salt latte and whisked matcha—hides a cozy little speakeasy. Beans and Bottles... the name says it all. I always find my favorite corner with a Classic Negroni, Our Sangria, or a Pulo Pepon in hand. Quick catch-ups effortlessly turn into long, lovely nights of lounging—and yes, the bar chow is just as good!

BEST PLACE TO SHOP:

Savage Mind Bookstore. I love books—and even more so, gifting books that speak of Bikol: stories set here, written by a Bikolano, or timeless classics translated into our language. Savage Mind Bookstore carries a beautiful selection of Philippine language editions, including The Little Prince in various local translations. It’s such a gem! Because of this store, I found the courage to write my own bilingual (Bikol and English) children’s book—”Tabi, Apo!”

BEST ADVICE:

I invite you to plan a trip to Camarines Sur to slow down, soak in the natural beauty, and connect with us—your friendly locals. We’ll gladly share with you the best of Bikolano food and so much more. Before you know it, your stay will feel too short, and you’ll be wishing for more time. Come experience true Bikolano hospitality—you’ll feel right at home.

BEST PLACE TO STAY:

Kuidkad Last Resort. Just a short two-hour trip from Naga, Siruma is where we go to slow down and enjoy the sea. My siblings and I love spending two to three days here, often inviting friends to join. On the way, we stop to buy fresh seafood to grill and tuba from a nearby farm. Kuidkad has a few vacation homes with beautiful views of the ocean and hills—and we always stay at the Black House, our favorite.