arcane letters

Somnium: Dec 23, 2011

2011-12-23T07:26:00.002+08:00

photo from Bear Medicine Walker

It was quarter to 4 in the morning when I was awakened by a strange dream. As I try to recall the details of which, it dawned on me... It was my brain's way of creatively putting together small details in my encounters I've had for the past few days into a mystical story.

The dream began in what appeared to be our previous house while I was still in high school. There were a lot of people in my room who were most likely my high school friends (I couldn't see people's faces very well). It became chaotic when their present boyfriends arrived.

As they try to enter my room, I was panicking... trying to find for my cherry red bra... only to find out it was hanging by the door knob.

photo from 123RF

***Interpreting which... my only close-knit group of friends were my high school friends and I'm really looking forward to see them before the year ends. As for the bra, I do own one of a similar color which I have worn just recently. Perhaps it was a breather or a reminder for me to wear a usual bra since I've been wearing bandeau for the past couple of weeks. Hehe...

After a while, the scene shifted into a cozy al fresco cafe when a man ("messenger") suddenly approached me. He started blabbing about my childhood days particularly back in grade school. He asked whether I recall someone I've been close to in grade 2. I couldn't recall anyone but a boy who I considered as my closest friend, JC. JC's face is a blur to me but back then I remember him saying goodbye to me as he placed a necklace around my neck, kissed me on my cheek and murmured, "I'm going to Canada".

That event happened while I was in prep but not in grade 2. Confused, the messenger interrupted my thoughts and said, "It's him and he has been looking at you right across the cafe... inside the car". I followed his finger as he pointed at a green Pajero. I couldn't see the guy since the windows were heavily tinted. As I was about to stand up, the SVU immediately left and the "messenger" asked me if I knew JC's full name. I said no and he said that JC prefers to remain unknown as he is somehow connected to a politician named Benjamin Derelik Norkles Abalos.

Benjamin Abalos

***For one, I couldn't recall that much definite occasions where JC and I had really been together nor talked except for that one instance when he tagged me behind a portable blackboard and gave me the necklace and said goodbye. To date, I couldn't reconcile what that was all about as I was only 6 years old during that time. I wonder where he is... The politician's name rings a bell but I'm not sure of the second name Derelik and the middle name Norkles. I tried to search for its meanings and to my surprise... Benjamin Abalos is indeed a politician and my place of residence happens to be governed by his son, Mayor Benjamin Abalos, Jr. I couldn't find an exact word for Derelik but the closest I've got was the word derelict. And same goes for Norkles... I couldn't find anything but this result exerpt from Google:

Urban Dictionary: norkle
www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=norkle
When a black person describes the act of wearing goggles and a snorkel to go swimming.

Benjamin "Benhur" Abalos, Jr.

Funny isn't it?! Perhaps I was just so annoyed by the buzz that Mayor Benhur is creating during the holidays. There's too much traffic and chaos around Maysilo Circle due to the makeshift bazaars, rides and occasional concerts and events. Moving on...

The "messenger" told me whether I could meet JC somewhere else. Curious, I said yes and he handed me a piece of paper. The scene shifted again into a place I have never been. It was like a maze or a game arena filled with finely built architecture and landscape. The structures were mostly zen-like and the place was filled with white cheery blossom trees.

***Now that looks familiar... see for yourself.

I must admit the wedding set of the Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn part 1 looks great but the film still sucks...

The place was equally pleasant but at the same time creepy. When I tried to ask for some directions from a lady standing by a tree, she suddenly turned into a zombie!

photo from My Road to Womanhood

***So much for watching The Walking Dead for the past 2 weeks...

I ran as fast as I could when suddenly I felt I was slowing down as my feet submerge into the soil. The feeling was like stepping into a huge chocolate marshmallow or fudge brownie. Then there were several tricycles swooping around but they were running backwards.

***I couldn't find any connection with the tricycles but I've been binging on chocolate fudge brownies and crinkles which my housemate baked a few days ago.

Bewildered, I ran across a small white house with its lovely porch filled with white flowers. They were dropping from the rooftop like snow. As they drop, I've noticed the petals were moving which appeared to be forming a line.... apparently being carried by ants. But there was one petal with a huge black caterpillar on it... about to transform into a butterfly or moth.

***Hey! That caterpillar actually reminded me of an annoying controversy blabbed about by an irate Chic-Boy customer which she fondly call it as "bulatepublicized such a shallow story. More than anything, I just feel bad for the students and alumni of UP as the so-called irate customer was identified as a writer and a graduate of UP. See article here. What was her point of sharing her story in Facebook? I wonder whether she was just venting and making an entertaining story out of it... when she could have plainly told her story to warn the public... Questionable intent, eh? Also, she named the caterpillar "bulate" when you can easily translate it as "higad". She's stupid enough to entitle her story with the word "scandal"... labeling it maliciously. No wonder if Chic-Boy will sue her for libel. Back to the dream...

As I entered the room, I was welcomed by my friend's husband then all of a sudden he froze. Then I woke up with eyes wide open.

***It was the first time I've seen my friend's husband in my dream. Probably because both of them are going through a tough time. Really hoping they would kiss and make-up especially this time of the season.

That's all folks! Share your dreams... Happy Holidays!

Toilet Phobia (part 2)

2011-12-07T16:11:00.001+08:00

I never thought I would have to write about this for the second time. Following my previous entry, I have been having diarrhea for almost 2 weeks now so I have finally decided to see a doctor. Doctor's diagnosis, amoebiasis. =(

Toilet Phobia (part 1)

2011-11-27T12:19:00.004+08:00

photo from www.shootfirsteatlater.com

I've been looking all over for the appropriate term for fear of toilets but parcopresis seems to be the most suitable word for me.

Yesterday, I had to conquer this fear when nature called for it thrice! And the culprit was Pan de Manila's pan de ube which I had last Friday night. =(

To be continued...

Bohol: Lovelier the 3rd time around (part 2)

2010-10-11T01:17:00.002+08:00

Finally, I was able to bring a decent underwater camera on my 3rd snorkeling escapade in the island of Balicasag, Panglao, Bohol.

Luckily, the weather was fine and it wasn't too sunny.

I have seen the dolphins here twice but the boatman graciously offered a side-trip to the dolphins (free of charge!). We have seen a few but they were too far. The dolphins were too shy to swim in our area because the sea was too peaceful. There were no tides for them to happily surf with.

Balicasag Island is known for its deep-sea cliffs -- a sanctuary of corals and various marine life species.

The corals were not as colorful as the ones I have seen 3 years ago. A lot has changed since then probably due to global warming. The corals at the cliff are much healthier and colorful compared to those near the shore.

These school of fish were huge compared to those above the sea cliff. They look like obese dolphins from afar but they're probably just tuna or the usual fish variety that we normally eat.

brain coral

We were almost tired and hungry by 10:30am so we decided to go back to the shore and have lunch. We had shrimps sautéed in butter with garlic and lapu-lapu sour soup. Nothing beats a fresh catch for a meal.

Fulfilled...I moved around the island to take photos of the terrain. I was amazed by this odd fruit-bearing plant when suddenly, my eyes caught sight of a sneaky amphibian...

There it was... a teeny green gecko...

To be continued...

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Bohol: Lovelier the 3rd time around (part 1)

2010-09-26T00:55:00.004+08:00

The 1st visit made me fall in love with the humble province of Bohol. The 2nd was like an Amazing Race since we missed our flight and had to pass by Cebu to get there. And the 3rd was for relaxation yet filled with adventure.

We thought we'd try Alona Beach since we've been staying at the other side of the island (Dumaluan Beach / Bohol Beach Club). It looks good in this picture but I didn't like the view and ambience as much I did at the other side. For one, the place is too crowded and the beach is teeming with boats and sea grass.

Once again, I'm a victim of over-rated reviews... Come on! It's nothing compared to Boracay. For one, the shoreline is too short. There were only a few restaurants, hotels and resorts to choose from fronting the beach.

Despite the disappointment, I enjoyed walking by the shore while taking pictures of various sea creatures like starfish, sea shells, hermit crabs, baby lobster, creepy worm-like crawlers, and slimy jellyfish-like slugs etc.

The food at this side of the beach was too pricey. We tried Oops Bar and to our dismay, the service was really poor. It even took them more than an hour to prepare pancit and sandwich when we were the only customers during that afternoon. We had it cancelled and immediately left the crappy resto-bar which most people recommend in blogs. We tried Alona Seaside Grilled & Restaurant. You read it right, G-R-I-L-L-E-D. It was one of the cheapest restaurants offering home-cooked meals and grilled food by the beach. It wasn't that bad... I actually enjoyed the vegetable kebab the most.

We've thought of moving back to Dumaluan Beach that same day or the following day but the place was fully booked until our 3rd day. Guess, we'd better spend our 2nd day snorkeling at Balicasag Island then. :-(

To be continued...

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I'm sorry I broke your arm... err... claw

2010-09-11T23:28:00.002+08:00

Dumaluan Beach Resort - Panglao, Bohol, Philippines

The idea of bringing home a wet swimsuit came in while having breakfast by the beach. I can't resist it... I need to take a dip and savour the white sand beach of Panglao 5 hours before my flight back to Manila.

So right after my sumptuous meal of day-old fried pork adobo, I changed into my swimsuit and headed off to the beach not minding the 10 o'clock harsh UV rays.

While resting, I saw this funny looking creature... walking sideways towards the shore. It was Mr. Krabs!

I immediately grabbed my camera and took pictures and a video of him. I moved away as I saw another guy trying to steal my moment with this little creature. Satisfied with his shots, he picked Mr. Krabs and hurled him back to the beach.

Minutes after, Mr. Krabs is back[!] terrifying the poor girl building a sand castle nearby. Also terrified but excited, I carefully picked him up and placed him on the lounge chair. Mr. Krabs was after all Mrs. Krabs.

She tried to escape and fell off the lounge chair as I tried to take more photos of her. I tried to pick her up again using my slipper but she grabbed the tip of which with her claw. I raised the slipper as she angrily wriggled... then ooops...

I tried pulling off her claw from my slipper while some of her bodily fluids trickle down my finger. Mmmm... she smells good...tasty...

And there goes the light bulb. I tried to grill her using my lighter and the claw jerked. It is still alive!
My friend suggested to sand-bake her. So we dug a hole, tore some pieces of my solved Sudoku pages and lit her up.

There she is, from purple to orange, perfectly cooked.

Though the claw was just as small as my pinkie, it's the freshest seafood I've ever had... no seasoning... just the right and natural taste of beach salt.

I'm not that cruel but I must admit, she was way too tasty... I tried finding her and I did find her under the table... but I had to pack. :-( 'Til next time...

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In The Menu: Pork Pochero

2010-08-11T23:07:00.002+08:00

Pork pochero is one of my favorite dishes when I was little but my mom used to cook this dish with beef and tomato sauce. This time, I'm going to do a remake of her recipe using pork & beans and pork leg (pata).

Pochero is a classic Filipino stew in red thin/thick sauce which is derived from a Spanish cocido. Most people use beef, pork or chicken with tomato sauce while adding in an assortment of vegetables. Others use chorizo, sweet potato, corn, or eggplant to spike the recipe.

Ingredients:

pata (pre-boiled for 1 hour)
pork & beans (I prefer Hunt's Pork & Beans, as it isn't too sweet]
sliced saba banana
cubed potatoes
sliced carrots
Baguio beans
cabbage
bell pepper
minced garlic
minced and cubed onions
salt, pepper, & patis (fish sauce)

Procedure:

In a pot, saute the garlic and onion with the pre-boiled pata.
Add the pork & beans and 2-3 cups of water to bring it to a boil.
Add the hard vegetables such as saba & potatoes then boil.
Once the sauce thickens start adding salt/patis and pepper to taste.
Add the Baguio beans, carrots, bell pepper, and cubed onions.
Serve the dish with the cabbage on top while it's hot. I prefer to do it this way as cabbage usually spoil most dishes when stored overnight.

*Migrated blog post

'The Pacific' Views

2010-07-29T08:45:00.006+08:00

Having seen HBO's 10-part mini series 'The Pacific' made my thoughts wonder & wander.

Jon Seda as John Basilo

I initially refused to watch it as I'm not into violence and bloodbath. But I eventually watched it having heard from a friend as she teasingly described the docu-drama TV show without spoiling the plot. She told me how frequent the Philippines was mentioned all throughout the story. Indeed, it was a good way to understand and appreciate the history of World War II.

Our conversation transpired into the memories of my late grandfather who was once part of this horrible bloodshed. I remember how annoyed I was every time my grandfather would ask me to sew his old and smelly 50's bell bottom pants into an everyday shorts; when he would repeatedly blab about his sneaky moves from the Japanese soldiers (pretending to catch a catfish when in fact he was just about to retrieve his bayonet gun hidden in the mud of a canal); and of how often he would pack and unpack his old soldier side cap together with his American veteran pension papers (which he patiently waited for so many years until he died of waiting). Honestly, I felt guilty when he passed away. I was 14 then and I never understood why he's stuck with his old ways.

Claire van der Boom - Stella

Having gone through part four, The Pacific isn't that savage at all (or yet?). In fact, I find it very depressing. It reminded me of my grandfather... of what it took him to survive the Japanese occupation and how lucky he was to survive that ordeal.

On another note, I was surprised to see nudity in this Tom Hanks and Steven Spielberg production. Claire van der Boom is sure pretty. She made me appreciate the 40's and 50's fashion -- breezy and dainty.

The war for a soldier is a battle not of gaining victory alone but of surviving a gun shot or a co-soldier's stray bullet with sudden bomb explosions, of fierce weather conditions in an impenetrable jungle, of starvation and sleep deprivation coupled with diseases such as enuresis, or of enduring depression and shock that may lead to insanity. Other than survival, it is the mere anticipation of earning a Medal of Honor or simply the chance to be home with their loved ones.

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The Nearly Extinct: Manila Zoo

2010-06-19T21:09:00.006+08:00

Aged elephant, shy hippo, balding ostrich, lazy tigers, domesticated monkeys -- These are the few remaining animals left of Manila Zoo. For the past two decades, I have witnessed the drastic change of the place... pairs or herds of animals have mostly gone solo... worse, some of which are nowhere to be found... have gone extinct.

I can still recall feeding a giraffe when I was little but I wasn't able to see it last week... and if I remember it well, not even two years ago. It's just frustrating to know that there's nothing left of these common animal species for the kids to see (in the flesh) and soon, they would have to settle for pictures.

As I can't remember having a single photo of me in this zoo, I took the opportunity to capture the nearly extinct Manila Zoo.

aged elephant

albino python

balding ostrich

drunk crocodile

lazy tiger

sleeping boar

wounded python

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When disaster strikes, are you ready?

2010-05-08T23:15:00.002+08:00

photo from: 72hours.org

It was not so long ago when the Philippines was hit by two tropical storms, Ketsana & Parma, last 2009. These storms have brought some regions in Luzon in a state of calamity. Looking back, I wasn't prepared then and until now I haven't been ready when I know a disaster would eventually strike. During that time, a friend has forwarded to me the link to 72hours.org. This website contains helpful information on disaster preparation.
I've been procrastinating on packing my go-bag. It didn't occur (again) to me until last night's attack of flying cockroaches which made me go nuts as these are tell-tale signs of an upcoming earthquake.

So, what should be in your go-bag?

Go-bag

A component of your disaster kit is your Go-bag. Put the following items together in a backpack or another easy to carry container in case you must evacuate quickly. Prepare one Go-bag for each family member and make sure each has an I.D. tag. You may not be at home when an emergency strikes so keep some additional supplies in your car and at work, considering what you would need for your immediate safety.

Flashlight

Radio – battery operated

Batteries

Whistle

Dust mask

Pocket knife

Emergency cash in small denominations and quarters for phone calls

Sturdy shoes, a change of clothes, and a warm hat

Local map

Some water and food

Permanent marker, paper and tape

Photos of family members and pets for re-identification purposes

List of emergency point-of -contact phone numbers

List of allergies to any drug (especially antibiotics) or food

Copy of health insurance and identification cards

Extra prescription eye glasses, hearing aid or other vital personal items

Prescription medications and first aid supplies

Toothbrush and toothpaste

Extra keys to your house and vehicle

Any special-needs items for children, seniors or people with disabilities. Don’t forget to make a Go-bag for your pets.

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There is no such thing as "No Return, No Exchange" policy

2010-05-05T22:45:00.001+08:00

You read it right. Under Philippine laws, there is no such thing as a "No Return, No Exchange" policy.

I'm off to SM Megamall in a while to return or exchange a newly purchased laptop cooling fan. I learned so much about this deceptive policy as I was looking for strong (legal) words to say in case Company X (which I will reveal if they'll give me hard time on this) insists the "No Return, No Exchange" line.

I have little knowledge of the so-called policy. I thought you can only return or exchange defective items within seven days together with the packaging and receipt as proof of purchase. Normally, if these things were not acknowledged by the seller, I would create a scene (hehe!) ensuring that customers are around listening. If it still doesn't work, my last option is to drop the magic word, "If we can't settle this today, I will report you to DTI!"

Now that I know there is a specific law to correct this misconception, my new line would be:

Pursuant to the Implementing Rules and Regulations of R.A. 7394, or the Consumer Act of the Philippines, specifically Title III, Chapter 1, Rule 2, Section 7 of Department Administrative Order (DAO) No. 2, Series of 1993, the words “No Return, No Exchange”, or words to such effect shall not be written into the contract of sale, receipt of sales transaction, in any documents as evidence of sale, or anywhere in the store or business establishment.

Such statement is considered deceptive because consumers may return or exchange the goods or avail of other remedies, in case of hidden faults or defects, or any charge the buyer was not aware of the time of purchase. By provision of law, sellers are obligated to honor their implied warranties and grant corresponding remedies to consumers.
>>> Department of Trade & Industry (DTI-NCR) Official Website

That I would have to memorize...haha!

For more information, DTI has an FAQ page solely for this. Click here...

Enjoy shopping, returning and exchanging but please do not be abusive... :-D

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Missing Tagaytay

2010-05-03T23:21:00.002+08:00

Casino Filipino - Tagaytay

It's been a while since the last time I've been to Tagaytay. Known as a quick getaway destination, Tagaytay has always been my second refuge. I miss:

The road trip itself. The cool breeze and ear pressure as you go up the hill.
Casino nights and early mornings.
Having coffee with the view of Taal Volcano.
Though I'm not a fan of mushrooms, I miss the taste of Mushroom Burger
The steaming bulalo soup and crispy tawilis of Leslie's
Senorita (mini bananas)
Tagaytay Market's line of beef ; flowers; fruit-bearing plants
Side trips to Nasugbu and Calaruega, Batangas; Sonya's Garden
Discovering new hotels and restaurants
Josephine's breakfast buffet!

Perhaps I should go this coming long weekend... :-D

albino water buffalo at Paradizoo

coffee at Bag of Beans

view of Calaruega, Batangas

Calaruega Chapel

Calaruega Church

Casino Filipino Tagaytay

Chateau Hestia

Calaruega, Batangas dirt road

eatery at Mahogany Market

Casino Filipino Tagaytay

Josephine's Breakfast buffet

Leslies Tagaytay

Mushroom Burger Tagaytay

Pink Sisters Chapel

Sonya's Garden buffet

Taal Vista Hotel

skinless cow head at Mahogany Market

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Escape to Hidden Valley Springs

2010-05-02T22:24:00.050+08:00

It was a hot Saturday afternoon and I didn't feel like going to the mall. Impulsively, I quickly called Hidden Valley Springs to make a reservation (as of 2 Nov 2011, its website doesn't seem to be working).

Though our house in Alaminos is just a few minutes away from Hidden Valley Springs, I was hoping there's an available room so I could fully enjoy the rest of the night and the following day in the stillness of the rain forest.

Rating: 4/5

About 80 kms. from Manila, Hidden Valley Springs indeed is a hidden paradise. With its deceiving location, its entry point is from the town proper of Alaminos, Laguna passing by small villages and woodlands until it reaches the town of Calauan, Laguna.

One has to make a reservation before coming to Hidden Valley Springs as the resort does not usually accept walk-ins and ocular inspections are scheduled accordingly.

It has been more than five years since the last time I have been to this serene place. Since then, nothing has changed (well except for the food). Its casitas and facilities are very well-maintained. One would be surprised as to how the entire place is being kept clean and well-preserved considering it covers hectares of land full of centuries-old tropical trees, giant ferns and wild shrubs.

An overnight stay for two costs Php8,500 which includes three buffet meals (dinner, breakfast, and lunch). The Z Coconut Casita is simply inviting and offers utmost privacy. I particularly love the bathroom with its daylight roof and its walls decorated with mounted leaves. The food has significantly changed since then. I remember, the salad bar choices were good and they even offered lechon, ice cream and halo-halo before.

Php8,500 can be very pricey if one would only think of the casita and food as its main value. I for one, think otherwise. I'd say most of my money's value went to the maintenance of this sanctuary where I can swim in a clean natural spring pool, breath fresh air, be attended by hospitable staff yet enjoy utmost privacy, and most of all the sense of serenity and bliss I felt each time I walk the trail of trees.

TIPS:

For commuters, take a 2 1/2-hour bus ride (Tritran or JAC Liner) going to San Pablo City or Lucena;drop off at km 75 or Alaminos; take a tricycle to Hidden Valley Springs.
For those with own transportation, the road from Alaminos town proper to Hidden Valley Springs can be quite challenging. Light vehicles with heavy loads may experience difficulty passing thru short stretches of dirt road and slopes. It's best to travel during the day as there are some areas with no lights at night.
Food and drinks are not allowed inside the resort; perhaps water is fine.
Wear proper swimming attire
The resort offers day tour entrance with meals
On your way to the hidden falls, bring water and wear comfortable slippers and clothes; not advisable for children, elderly or with disability as the trek is quite long and steep.
It would be worthy to bring a sunblock and an insect repellent. Although, I haven't been bitten by a single mosquito and the pool areas are mostly shaded by a canopy of trees.

For someone who loves nature, one would truly enjoy his/her stay in Hidden Valley Springs--a dwelling of calmness coupled with the sounds of flowing water and communing fauna.

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Backpacking in Bolinao

2010-04-13T14:05:00.005+08:00

Last week has been very stressful and frustrating so my friend suggested to escape... go out of town. Our destination: Bolinao and Baguio.

It was a Friday afternoon when we finally decided to go backpacking with Bolinao and Baguio as our destinations in mind. With a little research, we have identified which bus lines offer daily trips to Bolinao and Baguio. As we are nearer to Pasay, we opted to go for Five Star which offers direct trips to Bolinao.

We got to the terminal at around 11:30pm but the last air-con bus to Bolinao was already full. The next trip available was an ordinary bus which usually leaves at 12:45am. Quite disappointed, we went to Victory Liner to try our luck instead (with Baguio as another option). To our surprise, the terminal was full of waiting passengers (most of them were already sleeping in the waiting areas and on the floor) and the next trip to Baguio was at 9am!

Disappointed, we have finally decided to go back to Five Star and took the ordinary bus trip instead (ordinary fare Php304). The bus was almost full so we immediately boarded and sat on the two-seater row. Good thing, we have decided to travel at night so we wouldn't have to endure the heat and dust. But then again to our surprise, we had to close the window as the wind was so cold and the breeze was teeming with the aroma of pig poop (with a dash of Pigrolac) on our way from NLEX to Tarlac. :-P But the aroma escapade did not end there as the smell changed into daing (dried fish) as we entered the towns of Pangasinan. I almost couldn't bare the 6-hour agony of inhaling all sorts of smell while sitting in an uncomfortable chair.

Half asleep, I just realized I'm not really into backpacking, commuting and going on a trip without prior preparation and detailed itinerary..... zzz.....zzz.....zzz

I was awakened as the bus suddenly made a sharp turn. We are almost there! I enjoyed the bus 'zigzag-ing' the steep road to Alaminos-Bani; the view of the sun peeking behind the clouds as the sun rises; and the scent of morning dew which always reminds me of the distinct breeze of the country-side.

We arrived at the terminal at 7am where porters and tricycle drivers welcomed us. Jojo (our tricycle driver) was the first to ask us as to where we are headed. With no specific resort in mind, I initially blurted Patar but realized it would be wiser to start our resort hunt from Treasures of Bolinao. He agreed and asked for an additional Php20 making our tricycle fare Php170. It was indeed far and some roads were bumpy. But with the morning air touching my face (yet again with a dash of dust), the 30-minute trike ride was truly relaxing as we passed by local villages, coconut trees, dust-covered plants and of course the sight of rocks protruding from the low-tide waters.

I already knew that Treasures of Bolinao (including Puerto Del Sol & Punta Riviera) was already fully-booked. We inquired still to try our luck or perhaps opt for a day tour (Php385). The resort looks pretty decent but the receptionist was simply rude. With no welcome greetings at all, she was busy doodling on her ledger as she answered my questions.

nipa huts for rent

Annoyed, we got back to Jojo's tricycle. He instantly knew we were out of luck and modestly recommended the nearby public beach resort which offers fan-room cottages. With no choice, we headed to Cabrera's Beach Resort. A guy initially offered a small room (almost like a bathroom) with a thin worn out mattress laid on the floor which costs Php1,500. Crossed-out.

I immediately asked how much the huge nipa huts cost. Another guy blurted Php2,000. I knew this was a much better deal so we checked out one nipa hut. It was pretty decent and spacious which can actually accommodate a family of five.

We have decided to take the nipa hut and bargained for Php1,800 as we will only be staying until 3am and off to Baguio. Charlie agreed and started bringing in the stand fan, semi-thick mattress, sleeping mat, blanket and two pillows. Jojo also volunteered to pick us up at 3am but for a fare of Php250. Fair enough...

Hungry, we changed into our swimsuits and headed for breakfast at Treasures of Bolinao.

to Treasures of Bolinao

Though Cabrera’s Beach Resort is within walking distance to Treasures of Bolinao, the walk along the coastline was so tiring as our foot easily submerged into the loose coral sand.

There were no guards nor resort staff at the shore entrance of Treasures of Bolinao so we easily got into the resort. We have managed our way towards the cottages, pool area and the dining hall which was almost deserted.

As we entered the humid dining hall, the air-con was off but there were a few people at the tables. We went back outside and decided to take a sit at the bar counter with the view of the pool. The male resort staff immediately attended to us and asked for orders. We asked for a menu and he said they only have longganisa, hotdog and daing na bangus for breakfast. Disappointed, we ordered for longganisa and daing na bangus which cost Php150 each with coffee and Milo Winston cigarette stocks at the bar area as we amusingly watched them. They were completely undecided as to where they would best place the cigarette display. How ironic? The resort restaurant has no menu but they offer a wide array of cigarettes.

While waiting, we noticed another group of people silently complaining as they waited for their food to arrive. Another family also annoyed with the few food choices, also ordered food and had followed-up again after a couple of minutes. With my Milo half-filled, I followed-up again with the same male resort staff and he said to wait for another 10 minutes. And so we waited...

After 45 minutes, trays of food finally arrived. Salivating, I followed every plate but none of them landed on our table. I followed-up again with another female staff and she went to the kitchen to check on our orders. She went back telling us that they had been having problems in the kitchen and could not prepare our food. Furious, we immediately left after paying for our drinks and headed back to the shore as I binged on Pringles and Mine Shine Milk Tea.

It was past 8am when we started to take a swim and snorkel in the low-tide shores of Patar white beach. The water was so clear and rich in marine life. I totally forgot how mad and hungry I was as my friend and I alternately swam. It was already past 1pm when we felt hungry and finally decided to grab something to eat.

After scouting the area, we were left with nothing filling to eat but cups of noodles, burger buns, a can of sardines and a liter of soda. Though full, I can’t help but stare at the people around us feasting on grilled pork, eggplants and green mango salad. Anyway, after eating, we have decided to take a nap first and catch the sunset for another swim.

It was already 6pm when my friend woke me up. I immediately dozed off in Charlie’s mattress under the ventilated nipa hut. It was a well-rested nap after enduring the 6-hour agonizing trip and delayed breakfast.

We have decided to go around and look for a restaurant or carinderia for dinner. We walked and searched but found nothing. We even asked a local and she said there were no restaurants in the area just convenience stores that can offer to cook eggs and sautéed corned beef or sardines. Huhuhu... :-( We ended our quest as it was getting dark and we went back to the stretch of convenience stores looking for canned tuna or corned beef. Preoccupied, I jerked as my friend tugged me to a store with three lined-up cooking pans. HOME-COOKED MEALS!

Our ordeal ended that day as we feasted on dinuguan and sautéed innards. We have decided not to go to Baguio and just enjoy the rest of the following morning snorkeling and then leave at 12nn to Manila.

Despite the series of unfortunate events, I'm happy I have experienced and enjoyed these adventures in Bolinao. It isn't something I would plan to go back to but I would still definitely come back given the opportunity. The snorkeling experience may not be as wonderful as Bohol but it was worth it.

I would like to see more improvements in this humble town but not to an extent where it would be exploited by greed and capitalism. Dominated by locals, Bolinao may not be a tourist-friendly destination but I think it would be better to leave it that way...where its locals get to keep this piece of haven to themselves, where they can accommodate and earn from tourists without taking advantage of them, and by seemingly being happy and satisfied with their simple way of life.

*Migrated blog post

Blending with Bolinao

2010-04-12T16:41:00.003+08:00

RATING: 3/5

LOCATION AND TRANSPORTATION:

About 276 kms from Manila, the town of Bolinao in Pangasinan is reachable by land that would take about six hours of travel time.

Five Star and Victory Liner are common provincial bus lines that offer day and night trips to Bolinao. With Five Star, ordinary bus fare would cost around Php300 while Php400 for air-con. As a tourist, it is better to get to Bolinao with your own transportation so you can easily move around the town and tourist spots or perhaps, even go on a side-trip to the nearby provinces of Subic, Clark, Tarlac, La Union and Baguio. There's not much traffic en route to Bolinao as you can take the SCTEX (Subic, Clark, Tarlac Expressway) route. As you pass by Alaminos, the road to Bolinao starts to ascend through a zigzag road which will give you a scenic view of the mountains.

SCTEX

zigzag road of Alaminos-Bani

WHERE TO GO AND WHAT TO DO?

rough road terrain to Brgy. Patar

Considered as a 3rd class town in Pangasinan, Bolinao's town is relatively small and not so commercialized. The road along the coastline from Brgy. Arenda and Patar has a few parts with dirt roads that can be reached through a tricycle ride which costs Php150+. It is hard to commute or travel on foot if you plan to move from one tourist spot to another.

The beach, caves, falls and lighthouse are just among the patronized tourist spots in Bolinao:

Cape Bolinao Lighthouse

Connecting to an underground river, you can take a dip at the natural spring inside the Enchanted Cave. Somewhat commercialized, many frequent the place as an alternative swimming site.
Cindy's Cave also houses a fresh water pool but relatively shallower than Enchanted Cave.

Newly discovered, the Wonderful Cave is considered among the cleanest of the three caves maintaining its natural state.
Experience nature by trekking and swimming in Tara Falls. Quitely remote, Tara Falls and its nearby falls (Bolinao Falls 1 and 2) can be reached by land in about three hours.
There are many resorts in Bolinao but Brgy. Patar boasts of its swimmable white beach.

The sands of Patar looks like sesame seeds both in size and color. Crushed corals, the sands are very loose which makes it hard to walk on it. It would be best to wear aqua shoes when walking along the shore or while swimming to avoid unwanted scratches or wounds from sharp corals and stones.

The water is relatively clear and shallow (though a bit wavy) which is ideal for both swimming and snorkeling. Rich in marine life, the waters of Patar is teeming with varieties of fish species and among other sea creatures.

ACCOMMODATIONS AND FACILITIES:

Treasures of Bolinao Resort - pool area

The top three high-end beach resorts in Bolinao are Treasures of Bolinao (Brgy. Patar), Puerto Del Sol and Punta Riviera Resort (Brgy. Ilog Molino). It is best to reserve earlier especially during the holidays, although there are other worthy resorts that will suit your budget.

Solomon’s Paradise and Bing’s Beach Resort are just two of the budget-friendly resorts in the area. For the outdoorsy ones, you can either rent a nipa hut or put up your own tent at the public beaches of Patar White Beach or Cabrera's Beach Resort (Php2,000 per night).

Patar White Beach and Cabrera's Beach Resort side

It is best to pack or cook your own food as there are no nearby restaurants in the area except for the ones in the resorts. Nevertheless, there are a few convenience stores where you can buy basic commodities.

PEOPLE AND COMMUNITY:
The people of Bolinao are reasonably friendly and accommodating. Its people and its community appear to be untouched by commercialism and attuned to its cultural heritage while living a simple life.

*Migrated blog post

Through My Lens: Paco Cemetery

2010-04-01T20:33:00.004+08:00

I had to check-in Pacey (my Acer Aspire One notebook) at Acer's Service Center in Paco, Manila when I recalled a place worth visiting in the heart of Manila.

Other than the cemetery, Paco Cemetery (also known as Paco Park) also houses the Chapel of San Pancratius. To my surprise, it is a popular venue for weddings. In fact, there was an ongoing wedding when I got there. Luckily, the sun was just about to set. Just the right time for a photo shoot.

My Kodak Moments

2010-04-01T08:27:00.000+08:00

The Areola Store & Canteen: City Proper - Bolinao, Pangasinan

penis-shaped coral: Patar White Beach - Bolinao, Pangasinan

Ladies & Delicacies Upstairs: Apropriana Souvenir Shop - Tagbilaran, Bohol

Avocado Milkshake

2010-03-31T11:53:00.007+08:00

In most western countries, avocados are commonly served in salads, maki or sandwiches, and of course, the famous Mexican dip - guacamole. In a comment I have posted in Jean Curtis' food blog: Girl on Grill Action, which featured grilled avocados, many were surprised to hear about avocado milkshakes.

I'm not fond of plain avocado since it has this bland taste and mushy texture. I usually eat it as a chilled or frozen dessert or milkshake. Just watch out for the milk and sugar since avocado alone contains around 240 calories with mostly fat (but no cholesterol).

So here's the recipe.

Ingredients and Materials:

Ka Lui's avocado milkshake - Puerto Prinsesa, Palawan

1 ripe avocado (sliced)
1/2 cup milk
2 1/2 tablespoons of sugar
crushed ice
blender

Procedure:

In a blender, puree the avocado, milk and sugar
Add crushed ice as desired
Serve!

Tips:

The avocado is ripe when it is dark green or almost maroon or brown in color. It is firm but not too hard...otherwise it is still unripe. If you feel your fingers leaving a dent then that is overripe.
A good avocado should be free of lumps and veins so pick one that has a smooth surface.
You may squeeze some lime or lemon to eliminate the raw taste of avocado. This also helps maintain its color as its flesh tends to turn brown when exposed to air for a long period.
Another variation is to freeze the avocado puree and serve it like ice cream. I just love Arce Dairy's avocado ice cream - also a must-try!

*Migrated blog post

Separated at Birth: Madonna + Mad Hatter + Elijah Wood

2010-03-28T21:10:00.001+08:00

After seeing Mad Hatter (played by Johnny Depp) in the film Alice in Wonderland, it got me thinking... Why does he look so familiar?

must be the eyes & the teeth gap

Ewan McGregor for Best Act-ress!

2010-03-28T20:59:00.002+08:00

Yes, you read it right. After watching this true-to-life gay love story, Ewan McGregor deserves the Best Actress award.

The scene where Phillip Morris (McGregor) learned that his lover Steven Russell (Jim Carrey) just died... really made me cry.

McGregor can actually slap like a fine lady! :-D

It is just amazing what a guy can do in the name of love. Ooops! Let me repeat that.
It is just amazing what a gay guy can do in the name of love. In the case of Russell, he tried to escape from prison (with his totally outrageous con man acts) just to be with his fellow prisoner and lover Morris.

All together (McGregor's acting + the plot), made me love 'I Love You Phillip Morris'.

Separated at Birth: Roberts + Potter

2010-03-26T20:45:00.000+08:00

I've been trying to recall a romantic-comedy film where I saw this Julia Roberts' look alike. With just simple keywords, I stumbled upon Monica Potter starring the movie Head Over Heels.

See the resemblance? (minus the wide lips) =) hehe...

Now Playing: Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (2004)

2010-03-23T17:40:00.003+08:00

I already forget how I used to feel about you.

RATING: 5/5

CATEGORY: Romantic Drama-Comedy

I liked this film the 1st time I saw it. The 2nd time, I fully understood it. The 3rd time, I fell in love with it.

Too much conversation in films bores me but this film which won the 2005 Oscar Award in Best Writing [Charlie Kaufman, Michel Gondry & Pierre Bismuth] nailed my taste with a good combination of serious-comic dialogues and dizzying flashback scenes that will somehow mess your mind.

Indeed, the story is about the mind and how powerful love is. I wouldn't want to spoil it for those who haven't seen the film so I won't discuss the plot here.

Other than the plot, I love the script and one of the songs in the soundtrack (Everybody's Gotta Learn Sometimes by Beck). As an avid Jim Carrey fan, this is one of his noteworthy serious portrayals to date.

Below are some of the lines which struck me most, courtesy of IMDb:

Joel Barrish (Jim Carrey): Constantly talking isn't necessarily communicating.

Clementine Kruczynski (Kate Winslet): This is it, Joel. It's going to be gone soon.
Joel: I know.
Clementine: What do we do?
Joel: Enjoy it.

Joel: Sand is overrated. It's just tiny, little rocks.

Mary (Kirsten Dunst): Blessed are the forgetful, for they get the better even of their blunders.
[they click glasses] Nietzsche. Beyond Good and Evil. Found it in my Bartlett's.

[Clementine is trying to comfort baby Joel by showing him her crotch]
Clementine: My crotch is still here, just as you remembered it.
Joel: Yuck!

[Mary reads to Dr. Mierzwiak out of "Bartlett's Familiar Quotations"; the lines are from Alexander Pope's poem "Eloisa to Abelard"]
Mary: How happy is the blameless Vestal's lot! / The world forgetting, by the world forgot / Eternal sunshine of the spotless mind! / Each pray'r accepted, and each wish resign'd.

Clementine: Joel, I'm not a concept. Too many guys think I'm a concept or I complete them or I'm going to make them alive, but I'm just a fucked up girl who is looking for my own peace of mind. Don't assign me yours.

Joel: I could die right now, Clem. I'm just... happy. I've never felt that before. I'm just exactly where I want to be.

Patrick (Elijah Wood): Mary hates me. I've never been popular with the ladies.
Stan (Mark Ruffalo): Maybe if you stopped stealing their panties.

Clementine: Joel, hide me in your humiliation!

Stan: You looked happy. Happy with a secret.

Clementine: Sometimes I don't think people realize how lonely it is to be a kid.

Joel: I can't remember anything without you.
Clementine: That's sweet, but try.

Joel: My God, there's people coming out of your butt.

Joel: I don't see anything I don't like about you.
Clementine: But you will! But you will, and I'll get bored with you and feel trapped, because that's what happens with me.
Joel: Okay.

Joel: [voice over] random thoughts for Valentine's day, 2004. Today is a holiday invented by greeting card companies to make people feel like crap.

Clementine: You're not a stalker, or anything, right?
Joel: I'm not a stalker. YOU'RE the one that talked to me, remember?
Clementine: That is the oldest trick in the stalker book.
Joel: Really? There's a stalker book? Great, I gotta read that one.

Clementine: [Clementine has dyed her hair orange] You like? To match my sweatshirt, exactly.
Joel: Ahaaahhhhh! Ohhhhhh! I like it!
Clementine: You do?
Joel: You look like a tangerine!
Clementine: Hmmm, Clementine the tangerine.
Joel: Juicy... 'n seedless.
Clementine: I like that.

Frank (Thomas Jay Ryan): The only Valentine's Day cards I get are from my mother. How pathetic is that?

Clementine: Joely?
Joel: Yeah Tangerine?
Clementine: Am I ugly?
Joel: Uh-uh.
Clementine: When I was a kid, I thought I was. I can't believe I'm crying already. Sometimes I think people don't understand how lonely it is to be a kid, like you don't matter. So, I'm eight, and I have these toys, these dolls. My favorite is this ugly girl doll who I call Clementine, and I keep yelling at her, "You can't be ugly! Be pretty!" It's weird, like if I can transform her, I would magically change, too.
Joel: [kisses Clementine] You're pretty.
Clementine: Joely, don't ever leave me.
Joel: You're pretty... you're pretty... pretty...

Mary: Adults are like a combination of sadness and phobias.

Hollis (Dierdre O'Connell): Don't be a monster, Howard (Tom Wilkinson). Tell the poor girl. You can have him, sweetie. You already did.

Separated at Birth: Thick + Dane

2010-03-22T17:31:00.001+08:00

Eric Dane a.k.a McSteamy plays the role of Dr. Mark Sloan in Grey's Anatomy

American Grammy Awardee, Robin Thicke launched his Sex Therapy album last December 2009

Now Playing: Migraine + Sex Therapy

2010-03-22T17:13:00.005+08:00

Inspired by my recent migraine attack... I stumbled upon Moonstar 88's Migraine.

Next in the list is my recent LSS, Robin Thicke's Sex Therapy. A must add to your sexy-time playlist.

On a funny note, my friend told me that this song seems familiar to her...like it was some sort of a revival. She hummed as I try to figure out the lyrics... Watch the 1st video and the next. You'd be surprised how similar the lyrics and melody were.

It's your body, we can love if you want to
Love if you want to, scream if you want to

It's my party and I'll cry if I want to
Cry if I want to, cry if I want to

*Migrated blog post

arcane letters

Somnium: Dec 23, 2011

Urban Dictionary: norkle

Toilet Phobia (part 2)

Toilet Phobia (part 1)

Bohol: Lovelier the 3rd time around (part 2)

Bohol: Lovelier the 3rd time around (part 1)

I'm sorry I broke your arm... err... claw

In The Menu: Pork Pochero

'The Pacific' Views

The Nearly Extinct: Manila Zoo

When disaster strikes, are you ready?

There is no such thing as "No Return, No Exchange" policy

Missing Tagaytay

Escape to Hidden Valley Springs

Backpacking in Bolinao

Blending with Bolinao

Through My Lens: Paco Cemetery

My Kodak Moments

Avocado Milkshake

Separated at Birth: Madonna + Mad Hatter + Elijah Wood

Ewan McGregor for Best Act-ress!

Separated at Birth: Roberts + Potter

Now Playing: Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (2004)

Separated at Birth: Thick + Dane

Now Playing: Migraine + Sex Therapy