Backpack Adventure Diaries

Deuter PH to Hold Its First Photo and Video Competition

2015-10-19T02:08:00.000+08:00

Do you have a story to tell?

Do you love traveling?

Or would you rather spend your time biking, hiking or trekking?

Are you a nature lover?

Well now is your time to shine! Share with us YOUR JOURNEY TO HAPPINESS! A photo and video competition that will showcase your outdoor adventures!

This Contest is Open to ALL outdoor enthusiasts! Cool and Exciting Prizes from Deuter Philippines and great cameras and other gadgets from Canon awaits the lucky winners per category.

DEADLINE OF SUBMISSION OF ENTRIES IS ON NOVEMBER 30, 2015.

#Deuter #Contest #PhotoContest #VideoContest #Travel #Photography #Mountaineer #NatureLover #Lovestotravel #Journey #Mountains #Biking #Hiking

QC Blogventure Experience

2015-10-19T00:43:00.001+08:00

Quezon City is not new to me. I pass by the city premises most of the time. May it be going home to my parents' house in Bulacan, I take a road trip along Commonwealth Avenue; Fairview too.. Not only were the roads familiar to me. I've been to several places in the city: Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife, UP Diliman, UP TechnoHub and La Mesa Eco Park to name a few.

And that's what the tour was all about.. To go to several landmarks in Quezon City that has made a mark either for the country's history or the city itself.

QC is named after the country's 2nd President, Manuel L. Quezon.

Quezon City Monument located in the Quezon City Memorial Circle

I was assigned to the mid-day group. And our itinerary are as follows:

Araneta Center Complex

- KIA Theater (formerly New Frontier Theater)

The newly renovated KIA Theater (formerly known as the New Frontier)

KIA Theater Lobby

The theater itself. Approx. can accommodate 2000 seats. Upcoming concerts are The Jets and Kyla's Anniversary Concert.

- Four Seasons Buffet and Hotpot by Vikings

Dining area..

- Gateway Gallery

Inside the gallery..

- Topiary Garden

- Farmer's Market

The market's dampa area..

Own the stage.. Feel like the videoke king.. Have an instant audience at the dampa.

- Novotel

The only hotel that has a Mac hub for its visitors..

One of Novotel's rooms..

The hotel's pool area..

- Smart Araneta Coliseum

Still my favorite concert venue..

Mowelfund Museum

The founders of the Mowelfund.

It was an tiring yet interesting tour as there were some areas that I haven't been or revisited for a long time.

Quezon City is one large city for explore. And lots to offer presently and to the days to come to its residents and visitor alike.

Shroff Travel Offers Exclusive Travel Deals Up to 50% Discount on the 26th Philippine Travel Mart

2015-09-01T17:22:00.001+08:00

Backed with more than 21 years of experience in the travel and tourism industry, Shroff Travel guarantees its customers with professional services in providing overall solutions to their travel needs. This year, as they participate in PHILTOA’s 26th Philippine Travel Mart, they are offering international and domesticexclusive travel deals that will surely make everyone excited to take their next holiday!

INTERNATIONAL PACKAGES
3D 2N - SIEM REAP, CAMBODIA with Tours - USD 173
3D 2N - BEIJING, CHINA with compulsory Tours - USD 64
3D 2N - HO CHI MINH Free & Easy Only - USD 72
3D 2N - HANOI Free & Easy - USD 75
3D 2N - BALI INDONESIA Free & Easy Only - USD 62
3D 2N - KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA with Half Day City Tour - USD 76
3D 2N - BANGKOK, THAILAND with Tour - USD 92
3D 2N - SINGAPORE - USD 145
3D 2N - KOTA KINABALU, MALAYSIA Free & Easy - USD 124
3D 2N - SEOUL, KOREA with Complimentary City Tour - USD 170
3D 2N - MYANMAR with Tours - USD 196
4D 3N - OSAKA, JAPAN Free & Easy Only - USD 720
4D 3N - TOKYO, JAPAN Free & Easy Only - USD 812

DOMESTIC PACKAGES 3D 2N FREE & EASY for as low as:
Puerto Princesa - Php 1,948
Cebu - Php 1,959
Coron - Php 1,969
Boracay - Php 1,990
Batanes - Php 2,736
Davao - Php 2,754
Bohol - Php 2,756
Ilocos - Php 3,782
El Nido - Php 3,932

For more details about these travel deals and other tour packages, please check the NOTES on Shroff Travel Facebook Page

Experience Life with Shroff Travel!

SHROFF TRAVEL aims to give everyone memorable travel experiences especially those who have great passion for exploration. That's one of the reasons why they make it easier and affordable for tourists to discover the Philippines and the rest of world by offering these special travel deals. They also offer flight promos and issues ticket on all airlines so booking your tour with them is hassle free.

For more information about Shroff Travel exclusive travel deals, please visit their BOOTH # F1037 & F1042 during the 26th Philippine Travel Mart at SMX Convention Center (SM MoA) on September 4-6, 2015.

For complete information about their available services and packages, please contact (+63 2) 524 2222 / (+63 2) 524 3636 or text 0917 890 3637. You may also visit their website www.shrofftravel.com to search for available tours, flights, hotels, transfers and other travel needs. Book competitive offers with great value for your money!

Stay connected with Shroff Travel! Like them on Facebook for a chance to win a 3day 3 nights stay in Boracay! Follow their Instagram / Twitter @ShroffTraveland don’t forget to them your travel photos and use their hashtag for a chance to win surprise gift from them. #ExperienceLife#ShroffTravel#WeCare

5 Things Why You Need to Experience Subic Bay Yacht Club

2015-08-24T15:54:00.000+08:00

We all dream of a good life, even it's subjective, most likes to experience to live, breathe and spend what the few elites fortunately receive. We dream to live in a mansion, taste delicious and sumptuous dishes and to have our own yacht. Now, everything is possible, to experience and its just two hours away from Manila.

Subic Bay Yacht Club for years was a membership only facility. If you don't have the 6 digits for the fee, the luxury and exceptional experience that only those few blessed with fortunes, these will only be limited to them. Well, good news, the premiere marina is extending their membership to non members to feel, enjoy, eat, experience and well, try to be an elite even just for a day or two. Thanks to the Subic Bay Yacht Club management and stakeholders for sharing the paradise.

According to its official website ( subicbayyachtclub.ph), the SBYC is located North West of Manila, the Club is set with Zambales Mountain range on the Eastern part and the tranquil Subic Bay that opens to the South China Sea on the west. A perfect paradise with safe harbors and pristine flat waters. A vacation destination with elegant design. An exquisite service and warm hospitality. Experience us, Experience Subic Bay Yacht Club.

Here's why you need to experience Subic Bay Yacht Club:

1. It's a paradise
In the hustle and bustle of city life, whether you're from Manila or in any parts of the world, Subic Bay Yacht Club offers the million dollar view of the bay and surrounded by mountains. We love to escape stress and just to look at the pristine and relaxing view gave us that moment that we all need, the feeling of rejuvenation.

2. Accommodation
The different choices of rooms with the options base on your budget and need comes in handy from as low as Php 6,000. According to its website, The variety of accommodation at Subic Bay Yacht Club shares an inviting and functional space. All are spacious and elegantly designed to satisfy the discriminating taste of every member and guest. Each room and suite offers a balcony, with selected suites having a marina vista.

3. Food
Breakfast is always grand at Subic Bay Yacht Club. The variety of dishes in a buffet set up makes one likes to go back and to start the morning right.

4. Pool and Jacuzzi
The elegantly designed swimming pools are just part of the complete package. Everyone who checked in can use this facility. You can just relax in this place while checking out the different yachts over the bay which is just 20 feet or less away from the pool.

All rooms are equipped with a jacuzzi. One thing that makes SBYC different from the rest.

5. Hospitality
The moment one steps in the facility of Subic Bay Yacht Club, you can feel how friendly, professionally trained and naturally accommodating all the personnel from the bell boy to the managers on duty.

Subic is a first class municipality in the province of Zambales, located along the northern coast of Subic Bay in the Philippines. According to the census of May 2010, it has a population of 89,724 and a 1st class Income classification.

Like Iba, the provincial capital, and neighboring Olongapo City, Subic is also a fast-growing municipality and expected to become a component city. It is a former home of one of the largest US military facilities outside of the US mainland, the Subic Bay Naval Base.

For more information:
Subic Bay Yacht Club
Rizal Highway corner Burgos Street
Subic Bay Freeport Zone
047 252 5211- 047 252 6586
marketing@subicbayyachtclub.ph
www.subicbayyachtclub.ph

Deuter Philippines Opens 2nd Concept Store

2015-08-19T19:42:00.003+08:00

Deuter, one of the leading backpack brands worldwide, has opened its 2nd concept store in the Philippines.

Held last August 15 at SM City Clark Pampanga.

Those present during the grand opening were members from press, online media and VIPs from Deuter Philippines and SM City Clark.

The event was not just a simple ribbon-cutting. Other activities like wall climbing was opened to the public all day.

Our Taal Vista Hotel Staycation

2015-05-08T15:41:00.006+08:00

What joy it was when I had a staycation in Taal Vista Hotel with someone special. After picking up Sue at the airport, we went straight to Coastal bus terminal where we got a ride going to Tagaytay. Got off the other side of the "forked" road. From there, we took a tricycle going to the hotel.

We arrived at the hotel around 10pm. Good thing valet service picked us up by the gate. Checked in and settled in our room.

Hotel lobby..

The room was just gorgeous! Ours was located at the Lake Wing. Talk about an overlooking view of the Taal Lake. But that was enjoyed the next day; for now, it was more of the city lights.

File photo: Taal Vista Hotel

Although tired from the trip, me and Sue went out to grab something to eat. Our initial plan was to go to McDonald's which is just across the hotel but unfortunately it was closed for renovation. We decided to have bulalo in Don Juan Bulalo Restaurant. Good thing it's open 24 hours. Perfect meal for a cool weather.

Back in the hotel, we simply tugged ourselves in bed while watching television until we fell asleep.

Rise and shine!

View from our room's veranda..

What a beautiful day it was to wake up with an amazing view by the veranda and a beautiful lady by your side. ^_^

After taking that much deserved bath, we went down to Cafe Veranda for our buffet breakfast. The day's menu was a mixed of Filipino and American cuisine. We had danggit, sausage, omelet, soup and lots of bacon. I was also introduced to the Cafe's chef, chef Edwin. He prepared us tawilis as compliment. Yum!

Breakfast was satisfying plus the factor that area was facing the Taal Lake view.

After that hearty meal, we went around the hotel premises and explore.

Get a vast view of the Taal Lake by the deck.

Viewing deck..

I was planning on taking a dip in the pool but I decided not to and just chill by the poolside because of the cold, foggy weather.

Pool area..

Gym..

It's almost an hour before checking out, we went back to our room, fixed our stuff, freshen up and checked out. Time flew so fast that the our stay seemed short yet we enjoyed our stay. Hope to come back for another relaxing staycation at Taal Vista Hotel.

Wings of the World Officially Launched..

2015-05-03T01:51:00.001+08:00

Early this summer, I returned once more to Jest Camp/Magaul Bird Park for another exciting launch. It was the day that they officially launched "Wings of the World".

Wings of the World will present talented birds show off onstage with cute stunts right before your eyes. And they were really cute. All I was saying during the show was "Wow!", "Ohhh", "Cute!"..

What a way to start the show..

Audience participation..

Who's the quickest bird in this game..

Jam packed with audience..

TV personality, Kat de Castro at the launch..

What thrilled me most was to be able to see an eagle gaze over the audience.

And lastly, the finale showcased half a thousand of birds in one stage. How cool was that!

Wings of the World is included in the admission ticket to Magaul Bird Park located at JEST Camp Subic. Shows run during weekends and public holidays at 11am, 1:30pm and 4pm. During weekdays, it will be shown at 11am and 1:30pm. For more information, please visit, www.magaulbirdpark.com or call 047-2521489 or text 09177964668.

A Day of Relaxation and Bliss at Cayet's Cabin Private Resort

2015-02-25T03:44:00.001+08:00

I seldom have that chance to go somewhere and whenever I have that I would definitely grab it. And that's what I did when our group, The Road Trippers got invited by Cayet's Cabin to experience and enjoy its amenities.

Original plan was an overnight stay but was changed to a day stay. Still it's a getaway.. A day away from non-work, out of town trip, I'm good.

I met up with ate Joy in Paseo de Magallanes around 8:30 am then started our road trip to Pansol, Laguna. We arrive I think 10-ish in the morning. And mind you, the place is serene! Imagine a resort surrounded with trees, potted plants and flowers. I already felt relaxed with the view.

Then there's the cabins made of stone as the base but has a touch of nature with the bamboo walls outside and capiz-made windows. Makes me remember those days when I was young, if you know what I mean.

And of course, a resort won't be complete without a pool. There's an option whether you want the pool water to be chlorinated or not; cold, luke warm or hot spring water. Nice! First time that I encountered such options.

First thing I checked upon arriving were the rooms. They have different rooms available depending on what's your trip. And it was in our room that I had bonded first. Yes, I did snooze a bit. Hahahahaha!!!

It not just the nature-like surrounding that amazed me. Every room in the cabin is accented with various decors -- Oriental, Balinese and Filipino. Antiques are also display anywhere in the resort. And some reminded me of my childhood.

Cooking is not a problem. Cayet's Cabin has a pavilion where the kitchen is located. Also, they have a videoke where anyone can sing their lungs out. Not only that the videoke is more of song choices but it have a sort-of 'dance central' thing. Talk about making those dance moves.

I enjoyed the stay in the resort -- splashed into the pool, snoozed in the room, took that time-out from being busy. This is just first of the few getaways The Road Trippers had in mind.

Experience Extreme Up High in Tree Top Adventure!

2015-02-03T16:34:00.000+08:00

Experience extreme adventure and extreme relaxation at Tree Top Adventure Baguio, the only motorized zipline in the Philippines and the only Team Building facility in Baguio. With seven outdoor activities and team building facilities, located within Camp John Hay, surrounded by pine trees and overlooking breathtaking views, Tree Top Adventure Baguio offers an adventure of a lifetime.

For the thrill seekers who want to experience extreme adventure, you might want to experience our Tree Drop in which you’ll be suspended 60 feet above the ground, mission impossible style and you’ll be falling as fast as 2 to 3 seconds. This Tree Top’s most extreme activity costs Php 150.00 only and this is one way to really quench your thirst for adrenaline rush. You might also want to try our rides done in pairs: the Superman Ride and Silver Surfer. As the name implies, you’ll be ziplining, Superman Style, 200 meters long, 150 feet above the ground, but instead of doing it just forwards, you would also be ziplining backwards. Silver Surfer is a 60 degree diagonal motorized zipline in which you’ll be standing on a specialized platform and you’ll be gliding up and down for three cycles. Expect that there would be stops and swings for every cycle. For Php 300.00 and Php 200.00 respectively, you could experience what superheroes feel as they fly and glide through the air.

Canopy Ride


Skywalk

For those who want to experience extreme relaxation, you could try the Canopy and Funicular ride which costs Php350.00. The Canopy is similar to the concept of cable cars, but instead, you’ll be seated on cable chairs in which you’ll be transferring from one station to another until you complete all eight stations. When you reach the station four of the Canopy, you would walk for around 2 to 3 minutes to be able to reach the connecting ride of Canopy which is the Funicular ride. This ride is similar to the concept of elevator, but, instead of standing up, you’ll be seated. This is at least a way for you to conquer your fear of heights. But, if you really have extreme fear of heights, you could just avail the Trekking and Skywalk in which you would walk around Tree Top’s area and go up the skywalk area, or the viewing deck in which you could see the mountains of Itogon, Benguet or what they call the old Baguio before. You could stay at the Skywalk areas long as you want to take pictures and feel the cold breeze.

If your company plans to have a convention or seminar at Baguio, you might want to experience our Team Building Activities which includes two high element activities (Tree Drop and Silver Surfer), five low element activities, boodle lunch and facilitators for just Php 800.00 per head only.The activities would really challenge each member and how they work with their workmates. Work and play, as the cliché says!

Tree Drop

You might also want to try another branch of Tree Top Adventure Subic located at the JEST Area, Upper Mau Cubi Point Subic Bay Freeport Zone. For more information, you could contact (074) 442-0800 or 0932 404 1112. You could also visit our website www.treetopadventureph.com. To be more updated, you could like our Facebook page www.facebook.com/treetopadventurecamp and follow us on Instagram @tree_top_adventure.

Building a Community of Opportunities

2014-07-12T17:57:00.001+08:00

All the while, when I think of Gawad Kalinga it's about building houses in a community. They do build houses but I never thought they are more than just that. And that's what I discovered when I visited GK Enchanted Farm.

The GK Enchanted Farm is Gawad Kalinga’s platform to raise social entrepreneurs, help the local farmers and create wealth in the countryside. The man behind the continuous success of Gawad Kalinga, Tony Meloto mentioned that the road out of poverty is to provide decent homes; then teach them how to become enterpreneurs. And that's the main purpose why GK Enchanted Farm was built.

The place is not just a farm but a community. Farm because of the freshly picked greens and fruits; community because of the families and staff that work together to built better opportunities.

Going there was quite a challenge. The time I got the invite, I immediately checked how to get there since Norzagaray is a few kilometers away from where I lived. But with the several rides and turns, I doubted that I could commute. So instead of commuting, I took advantage of the shuttle service. I could, at least familiarize myself on how to get there..

It was an early call time. We left Enchanted Farm Cafe in Quezon City around 7am and arrived at GK Enchanted Farm few minutes before 9am. The place is huge. One thing I noticed at once was the foreigners of different nationalities in the area. They're actually volunteers that came all the way from different parts of world to help out in the farm's advocacy. There we got to meet Clementine, Leslie and Fabien, to name a few among the social entrepreneur mentors in the farm.

Leslie is no stranger in our country, she's a Filipina who has a good life in New York but chose to go back and do what she has been doing now.

Now back to the farm..

The buffet (from breakfast, to lunch and then dinner) are guaranteed fresh. All ingredients came from the farm. Talk about health and nutrition.

During our stay in the farm, we got to know and learn more about the different social entrepreneur opportunities that anyone could willingly have.

PLUSH AND PLAY

Plush and Play's current designs..

One of the staff in action..

GOLDEN DUCK

In the process of making those golden eggs..

The finish product..

BET ON HAMLET

Dimsum making..

Finish product.. These taste good!

GOURMET KESO

Yummy!

GK Enchanted Farm is just about learning but there's also exploring.. We were toured around the farm.

The Bamboo Palace

Lifebank Center for Bayanihan Economics

Oasis - Yes! They'll have a spa and wellness center..

Hyundai Center

Some of the houses in the community..

Not to forget a bit of relaxation.. Enchanted Farm has a swimming pool and it's an infinity pool..

On our last day in the farm, we learned a few farming 101.

Learning to transplant a seedling..

Removing weeds and grass from the crops..

The whole experience was like a mini immersion in the community. We stayed and got to interact with the families living in the area. I encourage you to visit GK Enchanted Farm whether it's for relaxing, learning, road trip etc. Drop by and get inspired by their vision to help people help themselves.

An Adventure Rises from the Ashes

2014-06-22T11:27:00.000+08:00

How great it would be that a vast area of volcano ash would become an exciting place to have fun and adventure.

Few months ago, I got a chance to visit yet another adventure park located in Porac, Pampanga, a place unlikely to think of (well, that is for me). But it was a perfect place to have an adventure.

Welcome to Sandbox!

Sandbox is an outdoor adventure park in Ayala Land’s emerging 1,125-hectar metropolis, Alviera. And it has I may say, the exciting to extreme adventures one can find.

AERIAL WALK

Quite unfortunate for me not to experience it. The line seemed limitless.. People, kids and kids at heart waited for their turn. I will try it some other time.

GIANT SWING

This is one thing I don't want to try again. Last time I experienced same thing in another park, I felt like dying. Heart and stomach left 30-feet high above ground.

Prepare yourself for the ultimate swing of your life..

TIP: Scream!

ADVENTURE TOWER

When I first saw this towering structure, I said to myself, "I got to try this no matter what!" There goes my adrenaline rush. It has wall climbing, rappelling and the free fall.

And there I go! (photo credit: Jinkee Umali)

ATV & UTV

Now here's something extreme! These all-terrain vehicles can take you to Alviera’s 1,125-hectar property that cuts across mountain terrains, Pampanga’s lahar trail, water ways.

From here...

To the grasslands..

Rocky roads..

Then this! Talk about having a playground..

Joyride!

More joyride!

But here's my ultimate advice before you try one of these.. If in any reason that you feel doubtful of driving, PLEASE don't think of driving. Think of safety first. Either the ATV or UTV are heavy and takes ultimate precaution in driving. I could drive go karts but this one is different and way bigger. I chose to be a passenger with the guide.

ROLLER COASTER ZIPLINE

It was not yet done when we visited Sandbox but to show you how it looks like and somehow see the thrill of trying it; here's a video.

Other attractions of the Sandbox include a huge sandbox playground for kids, picnic areas, the mini-golf with pitching areas, and camping sites. There’s also a gazebo, where food corners are located, and a flexi-use open field behind the Adventure Tower where hobbyists can enjoy other outdoor activities such as Frisbee, RC plane, kite-flying and kite-making workshops. The field can also be used as a concert venue.

The Sandbox is open from Tuesday to Saturday, 9 am to 5 pm. They offer several packages depending on which attractions you want to try. For more information and other announcements, visit the Alviera web site at www.alviera.ph or www.facebook.com/AlvieraPH.

Malabon Food Tour Experience

2014-06-01T04:36:00.003+08:00

The City of Malabon is a place famous for its Pancit Malabon. It is also famous for other variety of foods, such as puto sulot, puto bumbong, sapin-sapin, broas, bibingka and camachile. The culinary delights are abundant in its specialty eateries such as Nanay’s Pancit Malabon, Rosy’s Pancit Malabon, the Pescadores Restaurant and the Balsa sa Niugan, a floating restaurant with 350 seats.

And since we started talking about food, I got the privilege to experience first-hand Malabon City's food tour. What's unique (well, for me) about this tour is that it was initiated by their city mayor; who is somewhat a 'foodie' as he go around places within the city proper and try out various menu in establishments, regardless if it's a cafe, restaurant, stall or eatery.

Malabon is also the home of the famous Dolor's Kakanin; and it was first stop for the day.

Various delicacies.. Yum! Yum!

Love their pichi-pichi..

First time to eat yema rolls and I loved it!

Other products include bibingkang galapong, kutsinta, maja blanca, biko – pinipig, malagkit, monggo, & bibingkang tinapay (bread pudding). Dolor's Kakanin opens as early as 5am.

SECOND STOP:Aling Mely's Carinderia

Aling Mely's is one of the first eateries in Malabon. Established in the 1950s, we got to meet Aling Mely, herself and told she had not any culinary training. Forget about eating in a fine dining restaurant. Aling Mely's menu would make you say "Iba pa din ang lutong bahay.."

Aling Mely with her gastronomic menu..

Simple signage outside..

What I had in this stop.. First time taste TAPANG KABAYO and it wasn't bad at all..

THIRD STOP: Cocina Luna

Cocina Luna is not your typical restaurant. Not only that you'll fill up your tummy, you'll also get to feed your mind with the various artworks and quotes displayed on the walls..

Get connected with them right away..

Feed your mind..... and tummy.. :)

Be inspired / motivated..

Two of Cocina Luna's signature dishes - PULLED PORK BURGERS and TAPA..

FOURTH STOP: Cups & Cones

At first you'll think it's an ice cream store but there's more of what they can offer..

Signage inside..

Pasta, sandwiches, crepes, pies and salads..

Shakes, coffee and choco variants..

FIFTH STOP: Cooking demos and lunch..

More dishes welcomed us as we arrived at Malabon's sport center.. But first, we had a few cooking demos - Q-Xin turon and kikiam..

Turon with ube, lakatan and langka dip..

Homemade kikiam..

Now that's what I call a FEAST!

SIXTH STOP: Ozen Japanese Food

Ever tried takoyaki? Those that can be found in malls? They tastes fine but wait until you try those offered by Ozen. Theirs is more filled with flavor..

Takoyaki is a ball-shaped Japanese snack made of a wheat flour-based batter and cooked in a special takoyaki pan. It is typically filled with minced or diced octopus, tempura scraps, pickled ginger, and green onion.

Japanese food in the house!

Cooking just takes a few minutes..

Aside takoyaki, they also have gyoza and california maki (which I thought would also be served hehehe)..

FINAL STOP:

My Amazing Adventure Race Experience..

2014-04-21T21:31:00.007+08:00

I love adventures, challenges and going places.. Speaking of which, I signed up in another "amazing race"-like event in Subic. Last time I did similar was organized by a tech product and it's within Metro Manila.

Amazing Adventure Race was organized by Jest Camp, Magaul Bird Park and Subic Peninsula Hotel.

My buddy during the race was Kathy Kenny Ngo.. Shawn Summers and Gail Corpuz served as our photographers coz part of the rules was no camera, no phones..

Meetup was in Eton Centris; call time was as early as 5am til 5:30am. Me and Kathy made it right on time but had to wait beyond 5:45am because the other teams haven't arrived. We arrived few minutes before 9am at the Subic Peninsula for our race orientation and first task.

FIRST TASK: Collect 10 coins with 2013 series in the swimming pool.

The task required one team member to plunge in the pool and collect coins that were literally underneath. One thing for sure diving is a must and neither of us knows how to swim (well I only knew my partner can't during the task hehehe). It was a laugh trip at the start. Kenny was screaming to me all the time. After all the encouragement and moral support, we finally completed the task. Now off to our next task..

SECOND TASK: Find a white cavaran and search for the bird for your next task.

All the while we thought there were designated vehicle with the race logo that would take us to the next destination. With the 40 bucks enclosed in the envelope, we are to ride a PUV and use the amount as fare. It took us quite sometime to get our ride because a special trip not only cost 40 pesos. And surprisingly, my partner was good at collecting extra pennies.

And finally we arrived to our destination and got our task..

THIRD TASK: Find the egg that has your next clue/task.

Sounds easy right? But hell no.. We have to search the whole place for that egg. I found one but it doesn't have what we need to proceed. Out of curiosity, it just popped in my mind that no one has gone to the giant swing area and there I found another colored egg with our next clue. Yippee!

FOURTH TASK: Guess the bird described in the clue.

This was the answer to the riddle/question..

Kenny answered it correctly without any effort. And the next clue??

FIFTH TASK: Eat three worms for a sandwich or five worms for a chicken meal.

It was a roadblock meaning one person has to do it. Since my partner did the swimming part, I was my turn. My first reaction was "What?!" "Seriously?!?" I could do adventure but not this one. Not yet... But I have no choice...

It took a while for me to eat one.. Stared at the tiny crawlers mostly.. Tasteless but the feet gave the creeps out of me. Finally, I was able to finish 3 worms for a sandwich. The sandwich was supposed to satisfy my tummy but I lost my appetite. Blame it to the worms hahaha...

SIXTH TASK: Search for assigned colored papers in the aerial walk adventure.

My kind of adventure but it was Kenny's turn. I was totally nervous as she do the task. Scared that she might fall or something. I proudly say that she made it through the obstacles.

SEVENTH TASK: Make fire the jungle survival way.

The task was easy but with all the other tedious tasks, my energy was almost drained.. Could hardly make that smoke but with teamwork and patience we had our fire. Flameo!

The whole race was indeed an adventure. Our team may not won but we still had fun.

Spending a Sunday Afternoon in UP Diliman

2014-03-24T00:37:00.003+08:00

Once in a while you need to take a break from stress and unwind. And the way I unwind is not going to the beach, road trip out of town. Those I need some planning and budgeting to do. The best unwind moments often times come from simple walks at the park or watching the sunset. It doesn't have to be that expensive.

I once tried going to UP Diliman on a Sunday afternoon. Never been to UP on Sunday; often times those were weekdays.

The streets UP Diliman on a Sunday has transformed into a huge park. People were jogging, biking and even skating. At the sunken garden, frisbee and soccer are into action. It was also a nice place to have a picnic.

It was such a relaxing day. Just sitting and watching people pass by enjoying a clear and sunny Sunday afternoon..

A Walk Within the Streets of Binondo

2014-03-23T21:52:00.000+08:00

Binondo is the "Chinatown" district in Manila. It became the center of commerce during the American occupation.

Located across the Pasig River from Intramuros, Binondo has typified a small Chinese town, and is referred to as the local "China Town". The district is the centre of commerce and trade for all types of businesses run by Filipino-Chinese merchants. Given the historic reach of Chinese trading in the Pacific, Binondo was already a hub of Chinese commerce before the first Spanish colonisers arrived in 1521.

My first photowalk in Binondo was during the Chinese New Year celebration a year ago. It was a quick one and never got to taste any dish in the area.

Luckily, I was invited to take part of Western Digital's photowalk in Binondo. It's not just any photowalk but also we got to taste some of Chinatown's authentic Chinese cuisine. I got to meet Rolly Magpayo (a professional travel photographer), famous travel bloggers/writers - Enrico Dee (byahilo.com) and Melo Villareal (outoftownblog.com).

Professional photographer Rolly Magpayo providing tips on how to shoot for travel.

And not to forget the participants got try WD's cloud technology via WD My Cloud EX4. WD My Cloud EX4 is a storage device directly connected to a WD MyCloud account that you can access anytime, anywhere via Wi-Fi. Just download WD MyCloud app via Google Play or iTunes.

Smartphones plus WD MyCloud technology

Now back to our photowalk..

Backpacking in Binondo (photo courtesy of WD)

There were a lot of first time experiences during the event. First time to eat frog legs (and they do taste like chicken).. First time to eat a couple more of Chinese food like their chicharon, bamboo shells and oyster cake (to think that I don't eat oysters).

Oyster cake

Frog legs

More food...

Capturing moments via smartphones was the main goal of the photowalk. Then upload them directly to WD MyCloud app. Photos stored real time.. It was as easy as 1, 2, 3..

A street in Binondo..

"Morning papers"

Even Miko has her moment :P

Thank you to Western Digital and its organizers for the fun-filled adventure.

Happy faces (photo courtesy of WD)

Bucket List: Mt. Pulag's Sea of Clouds

2014-03-12T07:02:00.001+08:00

It took me quite a while to be able to said 'YES' to the several invites given by scouting colleagues in high school. And finally, I did it! I was able to climb and reach the summit of the highest mountain in Luzon - MT. PULAG.

Few days before the climb, me and two of my former colleagues went to Rover Expedition's hangout for the pre-climb orientation. It was the first for all three of us to climb Mt. Pulag. An orientation won't do any harm.

A pre-climb orientation discusses (1) what to bring; (2) what to expect; (3) precautions; and (4) if there are questions about the climb, better ask them during the meeting.. Also, that's your chance to meet the people joining the adventure.

Tents won't be a problem, the expedition got it secured. And I was confident that we were in good hands. I've camped out with the guys since high school. All that we had to worry about were our personal necessities like jackets/extra clothing, torch, sleeping bag, medications (if needed), snacks, water and of course, a camera. Who wouldn't want to capture every breathtaking moment going to the summit.

An itinerary was created, not to make the adventure like a field trip, but served as a guide. It was made sure that there is nothing to hurry during the trek.

Day 1
3:00 AM ETA for Baguio ( Breakfast)
4:30 AM ETD for DENR (jeep)
7:00 AM ETA DENR (Briefing)
10:00 AM ETD for Babadak (ranger stn.)
11:30 AM ETA/ Early Lunch Ranger Station
12nn: ETA Start Trek
3:30 PM ETA Camp 2 Grass Land/Pitch Tents
6:30pm Dinner
7:30 PM Socials
11:00 PM Lights Out

Day 2
2:00 AM Wakeup call (time for summit)
3:00 AM Trek for summit
5:30 AM ETA Summit Sunrise Viewing
7:00 AM Return to campsite
8:00 AM ETA Campsite EAT Breakfast
9:00 AM Break Camp
10:00 AM Start Trek (to ranger stn.)
12:00 NN ETA Ranger Station Lunch/Wash up Area
1:30 PM ETD Ranger to DENR
2:30 PM ETA RANGER/Wash up Area
3:30 PM ETD RANGER to Baguio
5:00 PM ETA Baguio
5:15 pm ETA Baguio – Manila (Dinner along the way)
11:00pm ETA manila

from my IG account..

Majority of the group when to Baguio earlier and ours followed Saturday evening, February 8. We arrived in Baguio around 2:30am; met the other group somewhere along Session Road and off we go to Benguet. It was 3-hour road trip to Bokod, Benguet. First time climbers underwent orientation at the DENR office. Afterwards, we proceeded to the ranger station and start trek to Mt. Pulag.

group photo before the trek..

Finally! Campsite...

learning to put up tents..

another group photo after settling at our campsite..

It was I guess my longest night ever.. Woke up I think 3x because of the chilling cold. It was definitely cold! Could still feel it even though I had three layers of clothing worn (including 2 jackets).

2:30am: everyone was already awake. Prepared ourselves for an early trek to the summit. It was still dark when we reached the summit but the view was BREATHTAKING! Few minutes later, the sun rises and oh what a view indeed..

SEA OF CLOUDS!!!

We started our decent back to campsite, ate breakfast and fixed our things. We arrived Baguio around 10pm and bound back to Manila by 12:30am.

Bucket list solved but I still want another trip back to Mt. Pulag. When will it be? No definite date yet but it be soon...

More Than Watching Fireworks at SM Mall of Asia

2014-03-12T02:13:00.001+08:00

The 5th Philippine Pyromusical Competition just had its third week with France and Japan showcasing their fireworks display.

more photos..

The event display spectacle of lights and colors where the night sky and sea meet as staged by the world’s leading pyrotechnic experts. Annually held at the SM Mall of Asia. Audience get to be wowed by the dazzling display of fireworks every Saturday.

Not only do mall goers enjoy the fireworks, there are still a couple of things to enjoy by the bay area. While waiting for the competition to start, fun things are in-store like the MOA Eye, kiddies rides for the kids or simply enjoy the view by the bay as the sun sets.

Are you a Viber user?

Viber, as one of this year's sponsors, has a simple treat for those who are going to watch the pyromusical. First 100 Viber users with Gold tickets that register at their booth will have a seat in the designated area.

The 5th Philippine Pyromusical Competition will continue until March 22nd. Get your tickets at any SM Ticketnet outlets or at designated booths before the show.

Conquering Mt. Pico de Loro

2014-01-18T05:58:00.000+08:00

Adventure with nature has always been of my bucket list. Being with nature for sometime will let you feel calmness and peace by merely view the wonders of nature.

Just like one of my previous climb I was invited - to the summit of Mt. Pico de Loro. What the group had was a day hike, so we started the assault to the top early morning. Reaching the summit was an achievement. Looking that the vast, wide view of the plains and sea on the other, what a wonder it was!

About Mt. Pico de Loro --

Considered the highest mountain of the province of Cavite, Mt. Pico De Loro (also known as Mt. Palay-Palay) is so called because of a unique rock formation near its summit. Pico De Loro, in Spanish, means Parrot’s Beak.

more photos..

Location

Located approximately 85 kilometers southwest of Manila by road, the mountain actually lies along the boundary of the provinces of Cavite and Batangas.
There are two suggested jump-off points – one in Cavite and another in Batangas. Although logistically more difficult to stage (especially to visitors bringing their own vehicles) it is possible — and recommended — to traverse the mountain from one province to the other (i.e. From Cavite to Batangas or vice versa).
The generally recommended route is to jump off at the Cavite side and descend to Nasugbu in Batangas.

How to get there..

To go to the jump-off point from the Cavite side, follow the route going to Caylabne Bay Resort (Take SLEX and exit at Carmona). Roughly 60 kilometers from Alabang/Filinvest, the jump-off point is a point along Ternate Hi-way known as the Magnetic Hill (there is a sign along the road), passing by the entrance to Puerto Azul. The trail starts at the DENR outpost in Ternate, Cavite.
Commuting visitors may take a bus at Lawton in Liwasang Bonifacio, Manila going to either Ternate or Maragondon in Cavite. Upon reaching Maragondon, take or hire a jeepney going to the jump-off point.
The Batangas-side jump-off point is located at Barangay Papaya in Nasugbu, Batangas.
Commuting visitor for the second jump-off site may take a bus ride to Nasugbu from Manila. From there, arrange for transportation to go to Barangay Papaya.

Adrenaline Rush and Nature Trippin' at Jest Camp..

2013-12-20T01:31:00.000+08:00

I always like to explore the beauty of nature.. It's always nice to be somewhere else; away from the stressful environment of the city. Got lucky to have been chosen and take part of exploring an adventure park in Subic. Welcome to JEST CAMP ADVENTURE & BIRD PARK!

JEST Camp, otherwise known as Jungle Environmental Survival Training, is an adventure camp for those who wants to have a chance to learn indigenous skills in an active, hands-on environment, educate them how to work with the wonders of nature responsibly through unique attractions (some first in the Philippines) and give them an unforgettable close-up experience with our beloved animals, critters and plants.

Since JEST Camp was firstly known for jungle survival, we had first hand demonstration on the basics..

Trying to make fire.. Not quite easy..

Can't wait to experience the actual jungle survival camp soon!

Now JEST Camp is more than that.. It currently has a bird park, where you can get up close and personal with different bird species. I, myself, got to experienced that.. Look!

But before we got to check out the birds and feed them, we were given that chance of experiencing ultimate adrenaline rush with two of Jest Camp's attractions - GOLIATH'S SWING AND AERIAL ADVENTURE WALK..

I love extreme adventure. Tried wall climbing, rappelling, mountain hikes and treks. All of these I'm into just to overcome one thing - fear of heights.. But when I tried the Goliath's Swing, it's a different story. One, your hanging 30 meters high.. Second, you'll never know when will the cord be released. Lastly, you'll definitely feel G-force as you are swinging back and forth. Best thing to do while doing this?? SHOUT!

I'm already praying at this time.. (photo credit: Ms. Elaine of Adventura)

The only words that came out my mouth when the cord was released - HOLY SHIT!
(photo credit: Ms. Elaine of Adventura)

I almost felt like my heart and stomach was left up there as I was swinging.. I just thought the rocket ride at Enchanted Kingdom was the extreme I experience; I was wrong..

Another attraction at JEST Camp was the Aerial Adventure Walk.. It's a series of obstacle trails from one tree to another.

Me, spearheading the first group who tried it..

Orientation before the challenge.. (photo credit: Ms. Elaine of Adventura)

Adventure walk.. (photo credit: Ms. Elaine of Adventura)

It was first time doing it and I want to this AGAIN!

With all these adventures and thrills we've experienced, we definitely need something to satisfy our tummies also.. Remember the survival photos shown earlier? Guess how our lunch was cooked.. No other than in bamboo trunks!

There goes our sinampalukang manok cooked in bamboo..

LUNCH! The JEST Camp way.. :)

I'm currently planning when to visit JEST Camp again.. Surely, it will be by next year.. EXCITING!

#MakatiStaycation at Holiday Inn

2013-09-24T23:15:00.002+08:00

It was a dream come true for me to be able to have that chance to stay in one of the iconic hotels in Makati - HOLIDAY INN.

I made my reservations few days after the #MakatiStaycation press launch. Ms. Teri of Holiday Inn was very accommodating in making sure everything's set by the time I check-in.

I was welcomed by the hotel's general manager ... That is my! Flattering.. Though I'm not used to it. Bit nerve-wracking!

Going back, our room was located at the 11th floor; and I so love the ambiance.. Explored the room; and what amazed me were the multimedia ports that are not actually located at the back or side of the flat screen TV. Cool!

First thing I did was jump in my bed and watch cable.. Talk about relaxation.. I am enjoying it!

While waiting for my sister to arrive from work, one of the staff brought something to my room. Fruits courtesy of the hotel. Still snuggled in my bed, more TV and internet; Wi-Fi connection is really good.

By the time my sister arrived, we called for some food delivery. Afterwards, slept like babies til 6:30-ish..

Good morning sunshine! That what greeted us by the window the next day.. We first have a dip in the hotel's swimming pool located at the roof deck. Their gym is also located in the same level.

Pool by the roof deck..

Then we let ourselves be famished with the hotel's sumptuous breakfast at Flavors.. Yum! Yum!

Food was definitely great. That was heaven for me!

We were already packing up when the hotel representative called me and said that we can extend our stay a bit more. Cool!

My sister had a short workout at the gym. Afterwards, we said our appreciation from the hotel staff for the wonderful stay. More photos here..

Hope to experience this again. ^_^

STAYCATION: Spending the Night at Eurotel

2013-08-21T01:36:00.002+08:00

With all honesty, my first impression with Eurotel was just another motel in the metro. You may ask why? Maybe because of the location, some of their branches are quite near with other inns or apartelle that caters short time stays. Another reason was the building color; I'll say, I'm used to how other hotels in the metro looked like.

But that changed when I, myself experienced staying in one of Eurotel's branches located in Angeles, Pampanga.

I was luckily included among those individuals selected to experience an overnight stay in Eurotel. Meetup was around 5pm in their Quezon City branch. There I finally got to meet in person, Ms. Divine. Also present were Willa with her son, Ed, Mervin and Ms.Ella, who works for Eurotel.

Our trip wasn't that long. Surprisingly, there wasn't that much traffic on the road.

We arrived in Angeles City, Pampanga around 7:15-ish in the evening. Welcoming us was branch manager, Ms. Gilda who was very accommodating; making sure that we were comfortable in our rooms and the hotel as a whole.

(from my instagram acct.)

The lobby was spacious! It was far from my imagination that it might look like a motel lobby. I admit, I was wrong..

Our room - Euro Suite 1..

DINNER!

First, we settled our things in our respected rooms and had our dinner. It was sumptuous indeed! I liked the crispy pinakbet among the dishes served. BURP!

Euro Suite 2

Then we had a short tour of the hotel. Aside from our room which is a Euro Suite 1, we also saw the Euro Suite 2. Unfortunately, not all of the room options were shown due to occupancy.

Our night didn't end just like that. We had a quick road trip around Clark. Casino hopping - up to the facade only. Afterwards, walked along the "Walking Street", previously known as Fields Avenue. It was street-long area with bars and restaurants.

Did I sleep right after that? No sir! I am pretty much awake. Grab some snacks in a nearby convenient store which I liked. I always tend to get hungry in the wee hours of the night. Watch a couple of movies, surfed the internet. By the way, WIFI connection in the hotel was good and I am very particular with that. I slept around 4am.

After an hour and half of sleep (I guess), took a bath, prep my stuff and had breakfast in their Cafe near the lobby. Dish options varies from Filipino - sinangag with 'ulam' of your choice to Western - bread and butter or corn flakes. Yum! Yum!

I would definitely love to come back and stay in Eurotel on my next visit in Pampanga. Might as well try their other branches. ^_^

Exploring Mt. Daraitan

2013-07-17T22:11:00.003+08:00

Exploring new places is what I like the most.. Those places not so much visited, nature well-preserved, great view, calm environment. These, me and my former colleagues encountered when we trekked to MT. DARAITAN..

Daraitan is located in Tanay, Rizal. It will take at least 2-3 hrs. to arrive to the barangay proper. Me and my friend (Neyz) took time to research on how to get there and what to do.

I waited for those coming with us in Ortigas while Neyz waited at the junction area where we took a jeep going to Tanay market. Upon arriving at the market, I took the liberty to ask where the ride going to Daraitan was. Take note that there are only 2 scheduled ride going to Daraitan (9am and 3pm) and one ride from Daraitan (9am). Otherwise, you need to get a special ride.

And guess what, all of us rode the jeep on top of it.. Exciting!

It was an adventure, scary yet thrilling ride going to Daraitan..

Look at the calm river we crossed going to the barangay proper..

this ride only cost 5 pesos..

And our trek began..

We arrived at our campsite around 6:30-ish.. And we're all famished. Off to setting up our tents and campfire to cook.

Of course, there were group shots in between..

It was long night indeed. What I like about the place is that even though it's in Rizal, you'll feel you're somewhere far from the busy metro -- quiet, hearing the flowing river is calming, no wireless signal unless you go somewhere higher..

Some of us took turns keeping the campfire burning.. We got up around 5:30am, prepared breakfast for the exciting part -- trekking the mountains..

foggy morning..

Group shots before the trek..

And we went exploring Tinipak River with me as the official photographer ('coz I'm the only one who brought an slr..)

We also went swimming.. Cool waters!

Love the amazing rock formations!

And the adventure continued..

Spelunking was the challenging part..

We went back to basecamp tired, hungry yet happy.. And we didn't went home without a final dip in the river. I, personally, want to go back to this place and next time, up to the summit of the mountains..

MORE PHOTOS..

Bacolod Travelogue - Part 2: The Ruins

2013-07-17T00:30:00.000+08:00

Our road trip to an historic landmark in Talisay, Negros Occidental - THE RUINS!

Bacolod Travelogue - Part 1: Melba's Farm

2013-07-16T00:30:00.000+08:00

Check out my trip to Bacolod and San Carlos, Negros Occidental during my birthday last year..

Our first stop - MELBA'S FARM!

Pintaflores Festival 2012 Experience

2013-07-15T00:30:00.000+08:00

In connection with my birthday trip in Bacolod and San Carlos, I got to see up close the initial preparations for the Pintaflores Festival.

Pintaflores is coined from the words Pintados, the concept behind the Nabingkalan Tattoo Festival, and the "flores", the Spanish word for flowers that dominated the theme of the Dances of Flowers. The Pintaflores street dancing and ritual competition highlights the annual Pintaflores festival every November 3-5.

Our group made the most of the short time taking photos with the participants.

MORE PHOTOS..

We had to leave without waiting for the parade to start due to our scheduled flight back to Manila. Hope I could get another chance to be able to witness the actual celebration.