BisdakVentures

14/01/2024

Embarking on a magical tidal experience where the Bisdakers explore the vast mangrove sanctuary in Jubail Mangrove Park through kayaking.

Having an adventure of a lifetime, the Bisdakers tried the double sit-on-top kayaks water activity where we cruised our way through the thick mangrove haven, met wild species & communed with nature.

Jubail Mangrove is an educational and leisure destination in Abu Dhabi aims to preserve mangrove habitats while also raising awareness of their importance.

Embarking on a magical tidal experience where the Bisdakers explore the vast mangrove sanctuary in Jubail Mangrove Park through kayaking. Having an adventure...

29/12/2023

Mother of Amenia

An iconic landmark in Yerevan, this statue is overlooking the city, and it was built to celebrate the women of Armenia. It symbolizes peace to strength and was built to commemorate the victory of the USSR in WWII.

Opened in November 1950 after more than two decades of work, the Victory Park is one of the biggest green places in the city.

The Mother of Armenia, a Soviet-era monument is a 22-meter high statue erected at the heart of the Victory Park. It was designed by Ara Harutyunya & modelled off a real woman, Genya Muradian.

28/12/2023

Yerevan Opera Theater

This magnificent building is another of Armenia’s masterpiece & a must-visit site.

Designed by Alexander Tamanyan, this work of art was awarded the grand prize at the World Exhibition in Paris.

It symbolizes the music culture of Armenia through the design’s “architectural grace & classic splendour.”

According to the information gathered here, the Theatre of Opera & Ballet was opened in January 1933. It consists of two halls: Aram Khachaturian concert hall & the Aleksandr Spendarian Opera and Ballet National Theatre. Both can seat 1,400 & 1,200 seats respectively.

Allan Del Prado. Sara FuellasJolene R. BulambotAysha EbrahimAnnie Cortez MateoMarilyn LopezVilma GalloILuxe Mayona Nilda Gallo Ma Ri Cel Cyn Eutiquio Bulambot

27/12/2023

The Pulpulaks

What’s also amazing in Armenia is it has an exceptionally clean environment & the water is so fresh that you can drink them from any potable drinking fountains.

The Pulpulaks, Yerevan’s drinking fountains, are unique feature of the city’s urban planning. Most of them were built in the 1920s and according to what we have learned there are about 1,500 of these scattered throughout the metropolis.

BisdakVentures family enjoyed drinking the cold, sweet potable water for free anywhere in the city.

26/12/2023

History of Museum of Armenia

One of the must-see landmarks in Yerevan is the History of Museum of Armenia. It is just located at the top of the Republic Square.

Unfortunately, it was already evening time when we visited the place so it was closed.

Nonetheless, we got a glimpse of how wonderful it could have been if we were able to go inside & explore.

The museum was built in 1920 & houses a collection of over 40,000 artefacts from the country’s history.

According to the information we have gathered, the most famous artefact is the Areni -1 Shoe, the oldest shoe in the world which was found in a cave near Areni. Tickets cost 2,000 drams.

Allan Del Prado Sara FuellasJolene R. BulambotAysha EbrahimMarilyn LopezNilda Gallo Vilma Gallo Ma Ri Cel Cyn Eutiquio Bulambot

24/12/2023

The Republic Square

Republic Square is the main square of Yerevan. It represents a unique ensemble of 5 buildings made of volcanic tuff stone, surrounding the square.

These stone buildings include Mariott (former hotel Armenia), Post office, Government Building with clock tower (a famous spot for photographers), former building of Ministry of Foreign Affairs and National.

Designed by Alexander Tamanyan around 1924-1936, it was formerly named after Lenin during the Soviet era. These monumental buildings are made of pink & yellow tuff in the neoclassical style with Armenian touch.

The main clock of Yerevan is located on the Tower of the Government building, installed around 1941.

It has also singing fountains that operate during the summer so we missed that during our visit in December. It is also known as the Square or Hraparak and was built around 1950s -1970s.

Locals gather here where concerts are often held along with the magnificent fireworks.

Allan Del Prado Jolene R. Bulambot Nilda Gallo Vilma Gallo Ma Ri Cel Cyn Eutiquio Bulambot

23/12/2023

Yerevan’s Northern Avenue 🇦🇲

Walking along the Northern Avenue at the heart of the city of Yerevan is a fascinating experience where you get to mingle with the locals, learn more about their urban life, enjoy the amazing centuries’ old architectures, historical monuments, arts, subways, restaurants, shops, heritage and classical, medieval buildings. In this part of the city, visitors can visit global stores, boutiques, and shops.

It is home to the most expensive apartments & nicest café and it cuts from the famous Opera House to Republic Square.

The Yerevan’s North Avenue is a must to visit since you can see many turn-of-the-century Tuf architecture.

We are amazed by the cleanliness & tidiness of the area. Bisdak Ventures had the privilege to visit at night where it is more festive & alive.

Drinking water fountains sprawled everywhere and you can just drink anytime, anywhere. The water tastes so fresh and sweet and cold too. Locals love to eat ice creams despite the freezing cold, it can go minus degree but you can see them enjoying the ice creams.

22/12/2023

Armenia is known for their delectable, super delicious cuisines. Aside from the traditional Armenian dish, Georgian food is also common here. At Shirak hotel, we were treated to a wonderful gastronomic experience: from their traditional chicken bbq, roasted turkey, chicken soup, Armenian & Caesars salad etc, their food was perfect. Stay tuned for our next adventure where we try home-made Armenian dishes in one of the remote villages in Armenia. Nilda Gallo Vilma Gallo Ma Ri Cel Cyn Marilyn Lopez Eutiquio Bulambot Allan Del Prado

22/12/2023

Shirak Hotel

Located right at the heart of the city of Yerevan, Shirak hotel is just five minutes’ walk to the iconic The Republic Square and 12km away from the Zvartnots Airport.

If you get lucky, you can have a fascinating view of the city’s park from your room. It’s a modern hotel where they cater to traditional Armenian & Georgian cuisines and the food are just so tasty & delicious.

We got a junior suite & double suit which cost around 45,000 AMD & 80,000 AMD respectively. The rooms are clean, the internet is fast & service is good!

12/11/2023

Cartoon Junction

Our kiddo is just so excited to reach this realm, a whimsical town that sure attracts children to come. For the first time, he dared to enter the Scooby Doo’s haunted house or the Museum of Mysteries where he took the ride to follow the trail of clues.

He finally stepped into the Carousel which he didn’t have the chance on his first visit here & was enjoying so much. We toured another house but refused to take the roller coaster ride, yet he still enjoyed the Cartoon Junctions especially in the kids’ area where he can climb more.

Gulch

11/11/2023

Dynamite Gulch

Fan of being wacky? The Dyamite Gulch is the place to be! Inspired by the desert landscape, this area is filled with exciting escapades.

If you are the more adventure type, go try the Fast & furryous inverted rollercoaster & joined Coyote as he tries to catch Roadrunner.

But mommy & Muhamad Essa are still not ready for such adventure, so we opted to just wander around & stroll.

We also skipped the Marvin the Martian Crater Crashers for the drivable space pods & The Jetson Cosmic Orbiter as our kiddo was no longer in the mood for the rides & his eyes are set on the next land.

Gulch Allan Del Prado Sara Fuellas Jolene R. Bulambot ILuxe Mayona Vilma Gallo Nilda Gallo Ma Ri Cel Cyn

10/11/2023

Bedrock

Stepping back to Stone Age time, the Bedrock Land is Muhamad Essa’s favorite.

Aside from the bright & lively theme, this land is filled with characters we all love before: the Flinstone family & the Rubbles. We got to see other characters aside from Fred, Wilma, Pebbles, Betty & Bamm but also the Dino & Baby Puss.

The cozy Bedrock land has several rides, but our kiddo loves the boat ride.

Here, we explore the river where we get to see our favourite cave family characters up-close & personal.

It is a great adventure for kids to immerse with the boat ride as we experience thrills in going up & down the current, splashing water as we culminate the ride.

It was fun. Here’s a reel of our adventure in Warner Brothers’ Yabba-Dabba-Doo’s Bedrock.

10/11/2023

The fun begins at Warner Brothers Plaza where everything starts here. Two years back, our kiddo celebrated his 3rd birthday & he just had fun.

Two years after, he came back still with all smiles in his face. This time, Muhamad Essa is brave enough to try the rides, explore Joker’s Funny House & dare to enter Scooby Doo’s haunted House.

Exploring Warner Brothers Abu Dhabi again starting from the classic Warner Brothers Plaza, a replica of the Golden Age of Hollywood. Just like SeaWorld Abu where it has its One Ocean Realm Park as the portal to seven other realms, the Warner Brothers Plaza serves as the portal to other immersive themes: Bedrock, Dynamite Gulch, Cartoon Junction, Gotham City or Metropolis.

Join us once again as we explore the biggest indoor theme park in the world.

27/09/2023

SeaWorld Abu Dhabi – Endless Ocean Realm

Dare to venture deep down the blue ocean floor?

Well, you’ll get that chance if you visit SeaWorld Abu Dhabi where you can have that immersive journey deep down & discover the endless beauty of the blue ocean.

Dubbed as the world’s largest multi-species marine life aquarium, which is home to over 68,000 marine animals, the Endless Ocean Realm is so astonishing that it is our most favorite.

Our journey to the Endless Ocean takes us to seven other habitats & various viewing areas.

We have the 20m vertical window, called as the Endless Vista, and the giant circular window, the Observation Deck, giving us stunning & breathtaking views of the beautiful marine life.

Our 5-year-old kiddo couldn’t believe his eyes when he sees the charming hammerheads, our first!

If you want to dine while enjouing the views of the Endless Ocean, head on to Fathom 11.

Muhamad Essa had a chance to talk to the chef & was so excited to explore the restaurant which has a direct view of the amazing aquarium.

In Endless Ocean, you will journey through various escalators & caves to reach the bottom.

It’s a wonderful experience, visitors will love the ocean more!

Allan Del PradoSara FuellasJolene R. BulambotAnnie Cortez MateoAysha EbrahimILuxe MayonaVilma GalloMa Ri Cel Cyn Jennifer Aniceto Eutiquio Bulambot

22/09/2023

SeaWorld Abu Dhabi –Artic & Antartica Realms

Imagine going through a frozen world where walruses, puffins, sea otters & penguins thrive.

Thanks to SeaWorld Abu Dhabi, visitors can experience this one-of-a-kind immersive journey to the Polar Ocean.

In the Juhani Village, as it is called, we are given the chance to experience the cold temperature while watching for the first time for many spectators the lovely sea giants like the walruses & the other equally cute, adorable sea creatures like the puffins & the penguins.

If you want some souvenirs, there is a shop inside the realm selling Arctic-inspired items.

Giving you a glimpse of these two realms & how it is like to explore the frozen landscapes through some snaps taken during our recent visit in SeaWorld Abu Dhabi.

Allan Del PradoSara FuellasJolene R. BulambotAnnie Cortez MateoAysha EbrahimNilda GalloVilma Gallo Ma Ri Cel Cyn Jennifer Aniceto ILuxe Mayona Eutiquio Bulambot

15/09/2023

SeaWorld Abu Dhabi – Tropical Realm

Among the eight realms, the Tropical Realm is something we can relate to as we hail from the tropical country - The Philippines.

Being the largest, this realm is inspired by the Amazon rainforest. At the entrance, you will be greeted with crystal-clear lagoon, giant palm trees & beautiful Caribbean flamingos.

Giving visitors the opportunity to explore a typical tropical rainforest, this realm also showcases tropical birds such as the macaws & toucans.

Tropical fish & rays are also seen here where they swim gracefully through the tropical waters whiles spectators watch over them.

A favorite of many is the Dolphin Show which is held in an amphitheatre than can accommodate around 2,000 spectators.

The huge amphitheatre is said to be inspired by the rice terraces in Asia which is really something, we, Filipinos, love & miss.

Muhamad Essa loves the Dolphin Show. The amazing performances of these lovely sea creatures captivated the hearts of those watching them.

Children really were amazed to see them personal. How they move, swim & obey instructions re just so awesome!

Allan Del Prado Sara FuellasJolene R. BulambotAnnie Cortez MateoAysha EbrahimILuxe MayonaNilda GalloJennifer AnicetoVilma Gallo Ma Ri Cel Cyn

13/09/2023

SeaWorld Abu Dhabi – MicroOcean Realm

Nothing beats this realm as far as the children are concerned. Dubbed as the “underworld playground”, the MicroOcean Realm is created for children to maximize & enjoy their visit to SeaWorld Abu Dhabi.

Dominated by hues of pink, purple & blue, the MicroOcean Realm is the favourite of the kiddos where everything that is small is transformed to something big here.

Check out the giant planktons, jellyfishes ,clams, corals & a lot more! There are several rides too such as the Turtle Twist, Octozoom, Jelly Plunge & the Eel Racer, all these would surely make your kids want to linger here.

Muhamad Essa loves the play areas particularly the Kelp Climb. Just like most of the children, our kiddo doesn’t want to leave. He was just enjoying so much & never even got tired after more than three ours of exploring the other realms.

Good that we came here last, else all other attempts to see the other realms will be nil. Kids definitely love it here! There’s no negotiating.😊

Here some snaps of our visit here with our kiddo having a blast!

Allan Del PradoSara Fuellas Jolene R. BulambotAnnie Cortez MateoAysha Ebrahim ILuxe MayonaNilda GalloVilma Gallo Jennifer AnicetoMa Ri Cel Cyn

08/09/2023

SeaWorld Abu Dhabi – Rocky Point Realm

Want to meet some sealions and seals & enjoy the thrill of hearing their underwater calls that include barks, whines, growls & buzzing sounds?

Well, SeaWorld Abu Dhabi got you covered. When you go to the Rocky Point Realm, you will get the chance to listen to loud noises that seem to frighten a little those who are not used to it especially young children like our kiddo, Muhamad Essa.

The loud growls being heard while we explore the Rocky Point Realm make the journey more exciting as if we are going deep down to the cove expecting the unknown.

This unique habitat is resembling that of the Pacific North-West in the US where California sea lions & harbour seals abound. Aside from the Sea Lion presentation, visitors will get the opportunity to feed them too.

One thing we learned from our visit here is that SeaWorld provides simulated environment for water currents, wave movements & even light just to give these animals their natural habitat, helping them to thrive given that they aren’t used to the climate in the Middle East.

Our kiddo loves it here too as he can see the playful sealions & seals swimming so freely above & underwater.

Allan Del PradoSara Fuellas Annie Cortez MateoILuxe Mayona. Jennifer Aniceto. Nilda Gallo Vilma Gallo Eutiquio Bulambot Ma Ri Cel Cyn

01/09/2023

SeaWorld Abu Dhabi – One Ocean Realm

After going through the cascading waterfalls & immersion from the desert life of the Abu Dhabi Ocean realm, visitors are led to the One Ocean Realm which depicts many captivating stories of marine life.

This awesome realm is where everything is connected. The One Ocean Realm is the park’s hub where it serves as a portal to the other seven realms. It houses the Animal Care, One Epic Ocean & the Explorer HQ.

Although it’s the smallest but the Ocean Realm projects giant screens that will give visitors a 360-degree media experience. It provides a digital storytelling depicting the various of aspects of the ocean.

Its iconic One Ocean Globe stands prominently in the center of the realm. According to its website, the realm “represents the ever-changing flow of energy and nutrients around our planet.”

Our kiddo got curious when he explored the lower ground & got so excited when he saw a huge laboratory which is already the Animal Care Center. Muhamad Essa even said “hi” & waved to the two ladies who appeared to be busy doing some experiments inside the center.

Accordingly, visitors are welcomed to observe and interact with the veterinarians & care experts who are caring for the animals around-the-clock.

Allan Del Prado Sara Fuellas Jolene R. Bulambot Annie Cortez Mateo Aysha Ebrahim ILuxe Mayona Teresa Quirante Daradar-Gallo Jennifer Aniceto. Nilda Gallo Vilma Gallo El Vic Ma Ri Cel Cyn

29/08/2023

SeaWorld Abu Dhabi – Abu Dhabi Ocean Realm

Giving us a captivating glimpse of the rich heritage of the locals & the booming fishing & pearl industry of the past, the Abu Dhabi Ocean realm brings us back to the Bedouin time reflecting the traditional way of life of the Emiratis.

This realm showcases the Abu Dhabi souk, dhows, or the traditional boats & pearl diving shows & a touch pool where children & adults will have the chance to touch the starfish & tiny fish endemic in the UAE gently.

It is the first of the eight realms the visitors will see & also the last as the exit is found here.

Once the visitors arrived, they’ll be greeted with the lovely, cascading waterfalls reflecting the beautiful landscapes of the UAE.

The Abu Dhabi Ocean realm gives us a traditional feel of how the Arabs particularly the locals thrive & how they have nurtured the environment, making it sustainable up until today.

It also features the Arabesque architecture throughout this huge part of the realm, a reflection of the desert landscape in the walls & even features the traditional port.

Aside from the traditional souk where people can buy souvenir gifts, it is also home to some restaurants & cafes that served Arabic food.

Our kiddo, who celebrated his 5th birthday in SeaWorld, was so fascinated with the touch pool where for the first time he had encountered the starfish.

In this realm, the Naham theatre is found where it has live shows featuring the dugongs & mermaids.

In our next visit, we will share with you more snaps about the live shows.

Allan Del Prado Sara Fuellas Jolene R. Bulambot Aysha Ebrahim Annie Cortez Mateo ILuxe Mayona Vilma Gallo Eutiquio Bulambot Ma Ri Cel Cyn

27/08/2023

SeaWorld Abu Dhabi

Be thrilled & be mesmerized!

There’s nothing like it, the captivating beauty of the ocean deep comes live & will surely take our breath away!

SeaWorld Abu Dhabi takes guests to an unforgettable adventure of a lifetime!

The way it showcases the magnificent beauty of ocean life, the way it tells us a relevant story that we are all interconnected, well, it would really leave an important lesson that we can all ponder & do something to preserve life.

The spacious marine life them parks is the largest multi-species aquarium in the world & it is situated in Yas Island, Abu Dhabi.

Showcasing eight different immersive themed realms, guests will enjoy not only the animals but get the opportunity to get up close & personal with these amazing creatures.

The spectacular One Ocean Realm serves as the portal of all other realms to include the Abu Dhabi Ocean, MicroOcean, Endless Ocean, Tropical Ocean, Rocky Point, Arctic & Antarctic Ocean.

Over 60,000 animals live here including the majestic hammerhead sharks, dugongs, seaturtles, sea snakes, rays, dolphins, walruses, cormorants, pelicans & some tropical wild birds like toucans & macaws.

Opens from 10am to 8pm, the ticket price is 375 AED. Bring your loved ones here, this is the perfect place to bond & enjoy while exploring the beauty & majesty of the ocean.

Sharing with you some snaps of our kiddo’s 5th birthday celebration at SeaWorld, bringing you more photos for every realm in the upcoming posts.

Allan Del Prado Sara Fuellas Annie Cortez Mateo Jolene R. Bulambot Aysha Ebrahim ILuxe Mayona Vilma Gallo Nilda Gallo Ma Ri Cel Cyn Eutiquio Bulambot Jennifer Aniceto

18/08/2023

His Holiness Francis Church

Named after the 13th century monk, His Holiness Francis Church is also another house of worship found inside the Abrahamic Family House.

Also designed as a cube-like house of worship, the church has noticeably two columns in its entrance symbolizing Jesus’ incarnation & resurrection as mentioned in their website.

The beautiful vault of the church is covered with timber battens which according to the website has reference to the altar in St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome.

Catholics can attend mass here. Here’s some snaps of our visit in the Church.

Allan Del Prado Sara Fuellas Jolene R. Bulambot Annie Cortez Mateo Aysha Ebrahim ILuxe Mayona. Nilda Gallo Vilma Gallo Ma Ri Cel Cyn Eutiquio Bulambot

11/08/2023

Moses Ben Maimon Synagogue

The crisscross façade of the Moses Ben Maimon Synagogue is a very distinct feature of the Jews house of worship located inside the Abrahamic Family House.

Named after the 12th century Jewish philosopher, the design, according to their website, aims to represent the palm trees used to build a Sukkah.

The exterior also provides protection from the sun but still allows the light from the stars to be seen at night.

Inside the synagogue, the design is also beautiful. Sharing with you some snaps taken by Bisdak Ventures during our recent visit in the Family Abrahamic House.

Allan Del Prado Sara Fuellas Jolene R. Bulambot Annie Cortez Mateo Aysha Ebrahim Jennifer Aniceto Vilma Gallo Nilda Gallo Ma Ri Cel Cyn

05/08/2023

Eminence Ahmed El-Tayeb Mosque

The beautiful Eminence Ahmed El-Tayeb Mosque inside the Abrahamic Family House is a sight to behold indeed.

With its intricate design, its façade features seven arches & covered in mashrabiya panels as per the information given in its website.

Inside the mosque, one feels the solemnity of the place. Muslims can perform their prayers here & ablution is also available for both men & women.

Non-Muslims can visit the place if they are wearing a headscarf and dressing modestly.
Abayas are also available in the reception of the Abrahamic Family House.

Bisdak Ventures had the chance to visit the Eminence Ahmed El-Tayeb Mosque and here are some of the snaps taken inside.

Our youngest Bisdaker was also happy offering Sura Al Fatiha inside the mosque & was feeling very happy while inside.

Allan Del Prado. Sara Fuellas Jolene R. Bulambot Annie Cortez Mateo Jennifer Aniceto Nilda Gallo Vilma Gallo Ma Ri Cel Cyn ILuxe Mayona

28/07/2023

Abrahamic Family House

Located right at the cultural district of Saadiyat Island, the Abrahamic Family House provides a space where we can visit three different houses of worships in just one time, in one venue.

Providing the opportunity to learn more about different faiths & reflecting the values of tolerance & peaceful coexistence, the Abrahamic Family House comprises a mosque, a church & a synagogue which reflect the religion of the Muslims, Christians & the Jews.

According to its websites, the three houses of worship are designed with “equal stature, size & materiality”, eliminating “any sense of hierarchy.”

The beautiful thing about this is it maintains & preserves the traditions of each religion.

As per the website, the mosque is oriented towards Mecca, the Church towards the East & the Synagogue towards Jerusalem.

Bisdak Ventures had the chance to visit the wonderful complex.

All of us are in awe of its marvelous amazing , intricate & beautiful designs. Let’s explore the area as we will share some snaps of our visit.

Coming here is free, you can even book earlier for a free tour.

The complex has a library, exhibition area, lounge, a garden, restaurant. It offers various programs, seminars & workshops to discuss relevant topics and holds dialogues for key discussions.

Tours are available between 10am to 5pm except on Monday where the complex is closed. Visitors can practice their faith, and everyone is urged to dress moderately.

Here’s some snaps of our visits where our 4-yearold youngest Bisdaker really had an immersive learning experience visiting three different houses of worship.

Stay tuned for more information detailing our visit of the mosque, church & the synagogue with more pictures to share in our next posts.

Allan Del Prado Sara Fuellas Jolene R. Bulambot Annie Cortez Mateo Aysha Ebrahim BisdakVentures Jennifer Aniceto Nilda Gallo Vilma Gallo Ma Ri Cel Cyn Eutiquio Bulambot