“To me, if life boils down to one thing, it’s movement. To live is to keep moving.” —Jerry Seinfeld

Basking in the beauty of Italy’s Campania region, I embrace the wonders of travel at 60 with an exhilarating and eye-opening experience. The Campania region, with its breathtaking destinations such as Positano, Sorrento, Capri and even a side trip to Sicily, has reaffirmed that life’s adventures need never plateau, even at this age.

When it comes to travel, age is but a number. At 60, the realization dawns that we are never “too old” or “too young” to take the plunge and embark on exciting journeys. The allure of exploring new cultures, marveling at picturesque landscapes, and indulging in culinary delights can spark a vibrant flame within us. It’s a reminder that life’s canvas is never complete and that every moment holds potential for joy and discovery.

As we set foot on Europe’s most active volcano, Mt. Etna, or brave the waves on a speedboat to Capri, we cherish the freedom to savor such exhilarating experiences. We become acutely aware that life is a precious gift, and the ability to walk without pain or climb 100 steps to the top of a tower in Malta is a privilege not to be taken for granted. It is in these moments of awe and appreciation that we realize the value of the borrowed life we’ve been given.

The pursuit of money and material wealth often dominates our lives at a younger age. However, the wisdom that comes with experience shines a light on what truly matters. The love we share with those dear to us, coupled with kindness and mutual respect, takes center stage. Nurturing relationships and creating lasting memories become the true currency of our lives. Travel becomes a medium to spread love and foster deeper connections, all while appreciating life’s miracles.

When we set foot in other countries, we are no longer confined to our own perspective. Travel opens a gateway to diverse cultures, traditions and ideologies, expanding our horizons and enabling us to view life through a broader lens. It is through these encounters that we develop empathy, understanding and a deep appreciation for the world’s rich tapestry. The beauty of travel lies not only in the sights we behold, but also in the insights gained from the people we meet along the way.

ACC gala dinner

As we defy age-related stereotypes and embrace the thrill of travel at 60, we come to realize that life’s adventures are not restricted by time or circumstance. Every day presents an opportunity to explore, learn and love. So let’s step out of our comfort zones, leaving behind the notion of limitations and embark on journeys that invigorate our souls. In doing so, we will witness the magic of travel and, more importantly, the boundless wonders of life itself.

Now also on its 60th year is the Asian Cultural Council (ACC) (Learn more about the ACC at asianculturalcouncil.org.), and it celebrated this important milestone with a gala dinner held at the Maynila Ballroom of The Manila Hotel. President Marcos and the first lady Liza Araneta-Marcos as chair emeritus of the ACC Philippine Foundation, were in attendance.

ACC grantee Gino Gonzales wove his magic to enhance the beautiful Maynila Ballroom’s art nouveau design. Maynila has been the epicenter of Filipino and American social and cultural events since the early 1900s.

Distinguished guests from ACC New York, Hong Kong, Taipei and Tokyo were regaled with a musical revue “Harmony Across Cultures: Celebrating 60 Years with the Asian Cultural Council,” featuring the best talents of Philippine performing arts—Alice Reyes Dance Philippines, the world-renowned Philippine Madrigal Singers, musical theater actors Poppert Bernadas and Bituin Escalante, and musicians Rony Fortich, Jordan Amaca and Christine Noelle Vargas.

The show was created by the country’s foremost talents, many of whom are ACC grantees, namely Barbie Tan-Tiongco, light and technical direction; Gino Gonzales, production design; Nestor Jardin, project director; ACC Philippines program director Teresa Rances, event management; and Chris Millado, stage direction.

Projection design was beautifully executed by Joyce Garcia. The gala dinner was prepared by chef Margarita Forés.

The ACC was founded 60 years ago by John D. Rockefeller III to support cultural exchange between the United States and Asia and within the countries of Asia. The ACC is privileged to count more than 300 Filipino artists and scholars among its distinguished alumni, nine of whom are national artists. ACC awards grants in the following fields: archaeology, architecture, art history, arts administration, arts criticism, film, photography and video, conservation, crafts, dance, design, literature, museology, music, new media, painting, sculpture and installation, printmaking and theater.

Self-taught and self-made

For this gala, many ladies were wearing Anthony Ramirez. This self-taught designer recently held his solo fashion show to celebrate his 15 years in the industry. The quality of and accolades for his creations and his clientele of distinguished people are living proof of his artistry.

The presentation of his latest Spring-Summer 2024 collection titled “Symphony of Feelings” was a testament of Anthony’s passion for fashion and creativity. The event took place in a charming ancestral home in Quezon City. Channeling his emotions into designs, Anthony consequently fueled his self-discovery and personal design.

With 30 breathtaking designs, the show climaxed with a grand finale featuring a diamond-encrusted bra worth P20 million, created in collaboration with Viera Jewelry. We need to shine our own bright light in life—sometimes, as bright as this diamond-encrusted bra when there are overwhelming challenges.

Life is always moving with challenges, mistakes, lessons and experiences. Don’t adhere to mistakes made, but understand the lessons learned from them. Painful mistakes become a collection of experiences and time converts them into lessons. Let’s make life all fantastic memories! INQ

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