Skechers' kicks will make you believe in the dream of the walkable city
Imagine a cultural and historical education in a beautiful city, plus comfy shoes.
by Fiel Estrella on October 5, 2018
Growing up in Metro Manila, you get used to the myth of the walkable city. The weather never cooperates, the sidewalks are cramped and crowded, and you're not always quite sure of your own safety. Hitting Angeles City, Pampanga, for a walking tour to test out new kicks from Skechers, the sun was still beating down on my back — but the cobblestone roads and careful preservation of its architecture and culture was refreshing.
Hitting Angeles City, Pampanga, for a walking tour to test out new kicks from Skechers, the sun was still beating down on my back — but the cobblestone roads and careful preservation of its architecture and culture was refreshing.
We started off with a heritage walk, which for me meant setting foot, for the first time, in places I'd only read about in history books. In the center of town is the Pamintuan Mansion, home to the Museo ng Kasaysayan ng Panlipunan ng Pilipinas. It has a spiral staircase leading to a rooftop with a 360-degree view of the city, and embossed metal walls in a shade of green that wouldn't be out of place in Crazy Rich Asians. At different points in time, it had been the residence of Don Florentino Pamintuan, headquarters for Generals Antonio Luna and Arthur MacArthur, and the site of the declaration of Philippine Independence.
Take a walk: A tour of Angeles, Pampanga with the Skechers GOWalk is no sweat.
Pampanga is, of course, the country's culinary capital, so most of our day was spent trying traditional and experimental dishes in the city's best joints. We had brunch at chef Sau del Rosario's Cafe Fleur and his farm-to-table concept 25 Seeds, where we were served authentic sisig paella (no egg, because they consider it an insult!). At LA Bakeshop, we sampled cheese bread fresh out of the oven, then hopped to the family-run favorite Toll House for comfort food with classic Filipino flair that takes you right back to the birthday parties you went to as a kid.
Exploring the town on foot turned out to be pleasant, especially with the right gear.
Exploring the town on foot turned out to be pleasant, especially with the right gear. The Skechers GOWalk Evolution and GOWalk Revolution shoes are comfortable, cool, and weightless, with cushioning at the soles that made me feel like I was walking on the moon. The light, breathable material makes them perfect for all-day wear, whether you're running, traveling, or just heading out for a bit.
We made one final stop at the Bale-Balayan Museum and had our hearts stolen by the talented children who are taking performing arts classes there before grabbing dinner and a few drinks at the gastropub Pigs and Pints. At this point I'd been awake 20 hours, but between meeting new friends, taking in breathtaking sights, and experiencing rich culinary delights, I'd never felt more alive.
#beauty #culture #events #food #photography #shopping #spaces #style #travel
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