Khiva is part of Uzbekistan, in the Khorezm region. As one of the Filipino teachers I know, it is the coldest area of the country in winter and the hottest in summer.
Itchan Kala is an ancient town. It got me interested when some Uzbek students mentioned it to me in one of our English classes. It came up when I showed them pictures of tourist places in their country as a conversation starter.
Being in Uzbekistan was like going back to the ancient history of the human species. The style of living in the village I was assigned to was not progressive; it was laid back, and not much development when it came to modern structures. There was rarely a skyscraper or none at all.
But nonetheless, the time travel experience in Khiva was superb.
I didn't know much about the history of Uzbekistan, but it was really interesting to see the old structures. The ancient buildings preserved in the old town of Itchan Kala were really something advanced and beyond the modern style of structures. The ancient town, with all its structure emanates elegance, grandeur, and excellent engineering.
Some hotels match the style of the ancient structures, as well as restaurants. They are like palaces. The interior designs shimmered and glimmered. Now that I remember it, the place reminds me of Aladdin. It was like a town in a desert.
There were also lots of souvenir shops to choose from for memorabilia. I used to buy key chains as souvenirs, but now something has changed. Instead of a key chain, I was enamored by some of the paintings I saw on display. Mostly the pictures say more about Itchan Kala and probably other historical parts of Uzbekistan.
This time around, I got a painting as my memorabilia from Khiva. Since it was light to carry and could fit easily in my luggage. I just had to be careful it wouldn't be crumpled.
It was difficult to roam around during our excursion in the ancient town of Itchan Kala, since I had my backpack and all my belongings, so I had to carry them everywhere I went, and they were really heavy and uncomfortable. Packing light was so-called for. I should practice packing light everywhere I go.
Video vlog soon...
Next: Hwaiting in Bukhara (soon...)
The Philippine Book Festival 2026 just recently concluded, and my books, The Restless Mind and It’s Not About Us, were able to join the book fair thanks to Paperkat Books.
Thank you to all who got their copies of The Restless Mind. It's Not About Us was also available at PBF2026, but not a single copy was sold. Either way, it was a success. Just being able to participate in this kind of book fair is already an achievement for me. I am grateful to those who open their platforms to independent self-publishers. Thank you!
Restless, Not About Us: A Double Triumph at the Philippine Book Festival 2026
The Philippine Book Festival 2026 was more than just a gathering of readers and writers—it became a stage for stories that resonate deeply with the human spirit. Among the highlights was the remarkable success of two works by Arlene Manocot: It’s Not About Us and The Restless Mind.
A Celebration of Ideas
Both titles captivated audiences with their unique perspectives. It’s Not About Us challenges readers to look beyond individual struggles and see the collective journey of resilience and hope. Meanwhile, The Restless Mind explores the complexities of thought, creativity, and the pursuit of meaning in a fast-changing world.
Festival Recognition
The Philippine Book Festival recognized these works not only for their literary merit but also for their impact on readers. The vibrant festival atmosphere—filled with colorful banners, lively discussions, and enthusiastic book lovers—was the perfect backdrop for Arlene’s achievement.
Why These Books Matter
Timely Themes: Both titles speak to the challenges of modern life, from identity to mental resilience.
Universal Appeal: Whether read in classrooms, book clubs, or personal reflection, the works invite dialogue and deeper understanding.
Author’s Voice: Arlene Manocot’s writing blends empathy with intellectual rigor, making her books both accessible and thought-provoking.
Looking Ahead
The success at PBF 2026 is not just a milestone—it’s a springboard. With growing recognition, these books are poised to reach wider audiences, sparking conversations across communities and cultures.
The Philippine Book Festival will be held on March 12-15 in 2026. It is a festival for all the book lovers out there, especially the ones in the Philippines. This book fair is one of the many initiatives of the National Book Development Board. NBDB is the Philippines' book authority, dedicated to creating a vibrant, diverse, and equitable book publishing ecosystem.
The book festival is set to take place at Megatrade Hall, SM Megamall, and the entrance is FREE, just register through this link: bit.ly/PBF2026Registration.
The Philippine Book Festival is not just a book fair; it’s a book experience!
I will be joining the Philippine Book Festival this year as an author through a consignment agreement with PaperKat Books and Ms. Kath Eustaquio-Derla. I am happy to tell you that two of my books will be available at the book festival, and they are The Restless Mind and It's Not About Us.
I won't be able to be there physically, but my books will be there for sure. They are at the PaperKat Books booth. Please do drop by.
Experience the Philippine Book Festival this year for FREE! My books will see you there. Raxmat!
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