Beaches and Get Aways in Negros Island

CARBIN REEF IN SAGAY CITY

2019-07-21T03:21:00.001-07:00

Sagay Marine Reserve or Carbin Reef in Sagay City has been in my bucket list for a long time and I was so happy that my colleagues, our kids and I had the opportunity to visit this famous sandbar.

Sagay Marine Reserve is a protected area in the Philippines located in Sagay, Negros Occidental. It is established in 1999 to protect marine life in Carbin and Maca reefs. Sagay is the largest marine reserve in the Philippines, covering an area of 32,000 hectares. Wikipedia

Going there one need to take a Ceres bus at the North Terminal in Bacolod City if you are coming from the south and central area of Negros Occidental. Upon arrival in Sagay City bus terminal, you may take a tricycle going to the port of Old Sagay. Pay the entrance and boat fee and traverse the sea for about 20 minutes going to the sandbar.

this where one pays the entrance and boat fee to the reef

the Museo Sang Bata Sa Negros is right beside the port terminal

our view of the sandbar from the boat

Day cottages are for rent and paid at the terminal, only a limited number of visitors is allowed daily

the watch tower at the edge of the sandbar

pictures cannot do justice on how marvelous the place is, teeming with sea life and refreshing seawater

the view at the watch tower

the boats will wait for their passengers until it's time to go home

our adventurous group

We all enjoyed our day trip at the Carbin Reef. I can swim all day long in its blue, refreshing and clear waters. If you want to reserve a cottage or inquire you may call (034) 4880649.

WISIK RESORT IN SAN ENRIQUE TOWN

2019-07-21T02:52:00.001-07:00

If you are living in San Enrique, Negros Occidental or nearby towns and cities, you might want to visit Wisik Resort in Brgy. Tibsok. The place is very accessible as it is right beside the main highway of Negros Occidental going south. For more information you may call the resort staff at 09292641455.

the popular red pool for adults

blue pool for kids

cottages for rent overnight

day tables

lifesize statues of superheroes

overnight cottage

hall for large gatherings

day cottages

shower area


fishing area

BULUBITO-ON BEACH RESORT UPDATE

2017-06-10T15:54:00.003-07:00

Bulubito-on Beach Resort has always been a special place for me and my classmates in high school. Summer means heading to the beach and enjoy the sun and sea, and that's just what we did since we are living in a coastal town of Hinigaran. Bulubito-on Beach Resort emits wonderful memories for me and my friends. Entrance fee to the resort is at P15 per adult, P10 for kids.

Beach front

Day cottages that can be rented for the day.
Rates ranging from P200 to P500.

Justino's Hall can be rented for P2,500.
It can accommodate 20-50 pax

Justino's Place is an overnight
cottage that can accommodate 8-10 pax.
Overnight stay is at P4,000.

Resort Canteen where you can
order food and drinks

Social Hall can be rented at P3,500.
It can accommodate 60-80 pax.

Resort entrance

The beach terrain is plain that makes
swimming with kids safe

You may get in touch in this number 0947-1951152 for inquiries and reservation. Hinigaran is 55 kilometers away from Bacolod City going south of Negros Island.

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CAMPO QUINO BAY BEACH RESORT, SIPALAY CITY

2017-04-15T17:03:00.000-07:00

I visited Campo Quino Bay Beach Resort three (3) times and I still can't get enough of the place and Sipalay City as a whole. Sipalay is host to so many resorts, natural aquamarine resources and still undiscovered islets and tourism possibilities.

Most aircon rooms are good for 4 with
a rate of P2,000 to P3,000 per night

The resort's restaurant. They accommodate cooking service with a fee. Order breakfast the night before,

Arcon rooms with own toilet and bath

More aircon rooms

Non-aircon cottages that can accommodate a group of 10 or more at the upper level. You can bring your own beddings. Bring your own food or buy at the local market and cook them by yourselves at the lower level. Cottage rate is P2,500.00.

Beach area

Day trip cottages

Camping area

Beach scene. You can bring a kayak or rent
one and enjoy paddling at the bay.

The beach is quite safe for little kids.

The resort staff can arrange for an island hopping tour for you. The boat will pick you up right at Campo Quino's beach. We paid P1,700 for a three (3) hour tour for seven (7) pax.

More of Campo Quino Bay Beach Resort in their Facebook page - https://www.facebook.com/Campoquino-Bay-Hi-jo-Beach-Resort-125286080963533/

BANTUG LAKE RANCH

2016-04-08T06:53:00.001-07:00

We recently spent a day with my son's classmates and their families at Bantug Lake Ranch. It was a farewell party for some since they just graduated from Grade 6. Others will transfer to other schools it seems. Bantug Lake Ranch is three kilometers away from Brgy. Granada and belong to Brgy. Alangilan already. I like the place since it has elements of nature that kids can enjoy such as horseback riding and boating. Entrance fee is P50 per person.

The Horse Bullring where you can ride a horse
for P50 for two rounds or P150 for 15 minutes

The ranch's horses

Swimming fee is P120

Kiddie's pool

Boating Lagoon - P50 for two rounds

Park area where you can rent a table for P200

Tables under the tree. Those who wants a table under a canopy, you can rent it at P500 or P1,000 for 2 tables.

One thing I appreciate at Bantug Lake Ranch
is their spacious shower room

You can get in touch with Batug Lake Ranch through these contacts details - Mobile: 0927-341-0134 Landline: (034) 213-1916 or Email them at bantuglakeranch@gmail.com.

You can also check their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/bantuglakeranch

Address: Barangay Alangilan, Bacolod City

Lakawon Island Resort and Spa

2015-12-11T17:21:00.001-08:00

My favorite island resort has recently changed management. It is now known as LAKAWON ISLAND RESORT AND SPA. For everybody's information, please find herewith the new contact numbers. Photo credit to Cadiz City Tourism Office.

As of the moment, Entrance Fee is P100/person, Day cottage rental is P1,000, Roundtrip boat fare is P150/person, minimum of 10 pax per trip. However, there is a different boat rate for those who are less than 10 - 1-4 pax is P1,000, 5-7 pax is P1,200 and 8-10 pax is P1,500. Terminal Fee is P20/person. Corkage Fee is P50/pax.

No corkage fee for outside food at the moment because their restaurant is not operational yet. I was told they will charge corkage fee starting January 2016.

You may also check the FB page of Cadiz City Tourism Office for pictures of the developments in the island.

Raymen Beach Resort in Guimaras Island

2015-01-21T03:10:00.002-08:00

Recently, I was assigned to assist students in their Guimaras trip. And, I couldn't resist documenting our travel from Negros to Guimaras Island since this is my first time to go to the main island. Going to Raymen Beach Resort from Negros takes 1 hour and 20 minutes fast ferry boat ride, 15 minutes boat ride from Iloilo City wharf and another 45 minutes land travel.

Raymen's information office and entry to the resort

hotel type accommodation

the covered walk going to the beach front

small canteen near the day cottages

day cottages that one can rent from 8am to 6pm

the infamous Alubihod Beach where three (3) resorts
are located including Raymen

my airconditioned room that cost P1,350 overnight

the resort's restaurant that serves delicious food

the billiard hall

the fan room cottages that can be rented overnight too

Raymen Beach Resort have this mini-Boracay feel. And wonders of wonders, it can accommodate big groups such as ours. The resort can book island hopping tours,snorkeling, jet ski and banana boat ride.

For more information, you can check out their website: www.raymenresort.com or call 0918-5207271.

GUERRERO FARM AND NATURE PARK

2014-05-03T23:57:00.003-07:00

Guerrero Farm and Nature Park is a 30 hectare garden resort located in Brgy. Cabatangan, Talisay City. The place boasts of scenic views, beautiful gardens, cool environment and lots and lots of garden plants variety and a nursery for cacti and succulents. I love how they integrate gardening into the resort and sell garden plants at the same time.

It is our first time to go there and the road trip is quite an adventure. Upon reaching the "overflow", we got off from our jeepney and walk going up since the road is really steep almost like 90 degrees alignment.

This is the way going up! Too steep for a jeepney full of people
so we got off and walked! ^^

One of the several overnight cottages at the resort.
This one cost P1,500/night

The big pool and the kiddie's pool.

Far right is a P500/day "day cottage".

Entry going to the pool area and the house
is the resort's restaurant.

Entryway to the nursery where plants are being sold.

300 variety of cacti and succulents are available for sale.

The entrance fee to the resort is P70 per person inclusive of swimming fee. Rental of day cottages ranges from P500 to P1,000. Overnight stayers can choose cottages from P1,500 to P3,000 per night. Each cottage has working toilet and bath.

The place is really great! It's like you have to pass by a whole lot of adventure first (especially for the first timers) before reaching heaven on earth.

For reservation, you can call (034) 434-4368.

MAMBUCAL RESORT

2014-01-13T02:15:00.003-08:00

I've been to Mambucal Resort a countless time and I kind of taken the place for granted. However, there many new things up there so I guess it's really worth featuring them here. And, Mambucal is such a tradition for most of us Negrense so here it is....

Ishiwata Bathhouse built in 1927

Boating Lagoon, P30 for 30 minutes

one can take a dip in here for free

the now famous hot Sulfur spring dipping pool
temperature is at 36 degrees to 45 degrees centigrade
entrance fee is at P50 for adult and P20 for kids

the newly constructed Japanese hot spring pool,
warmer than the first dipping pool,
entrance fee is P100 per person

the main swimming pool with areas for kids and adults

the infamous hot sulfur spring, no swimming allowed
heard one can cook an egg here ^^

the entry way going to the hot sulfur spring,
farther right is a small dipping pool for your tired feet

the smaller swimming pool near the entrance

the view of the river

day cottages rental fee is at P300

the camping ground

they used to sell plants and flowers at the resort's
road side but now they were given a space near
the main pool entrance to sell their produce

The resort is located at Brgy. Minoyan, Murcia. Entrance fee is at P30 per person, parking fee for cars and buses is P30 also. For more information about Mambukal Resort you may visit the website of the Province of Negros Occidental at http://mambukal.negros-occ.gov.ph.

LAKAWON ISLAND RESORT

2013-09-23T06:37:00.001-07:00

Lakawon Island Resort & Spa is now under new management. Please refer your inquiries at this page https://www.facebook.com/Lakawon-Island-Resorts-Spa

Lakawon Island Resort is an island located along the Guimaras Strait. It can be reach by boat for about 15 minutes from the port of Brgy. Cadiz Viejo, Cadiz City. I always loved to go there because of its crystal clear pristine blue waters.

Cadiz Viejo baranggay hall and soon to be

tourism center and waiting area

The port of Cadiz Viejo where one can get a boat going to Lakawon Island Resort. Roundtrip boat fare is at P600 (minimum rate) good for 4 passengers. Boats can ferry a maximum of 12 pax with an additional fare of P150 per pax. I'm just glad they built this port, you can't imagine what you have to go through when there was no port during low tide and choppy waters.

Day cottages at P500 to P1000

The famous crystalline, pristine blue waters
and white sand beach

Overnight cottages with aircon good for 4 pax is at Php2,500.
Good for 8 pax is Php3,000.

the non-operational resort shop

The non-aircon cottage. Overnight rental fee
good for 4 pax is Php1,500.

This cottage can accommodate a maximum of
eight (8) pax. Overnight rental fee is Php1,800.

The beach with a hut, great if you don't want
to stay under the sun while swimming.

Another shot of the day cottages

The village charges P20 per person as port entrance fee. If you brought your own transport service, parking fee is P35 paid to the owner of the land where cars can park.

Entrance to the resort is P100 per person. Room reservation is a must for overnight stayers. For more information, reservation or inquiries call Lakawon office directly at (034) 4330808 or 0917-4095576.

P.S. For your trip, please call the Lakawaon Island Resort directly with the numbers listed above. I don't do bookings for them. Thanks!

PATA-AN MOUNTAIN RESORT

2013-05-09T19:41:00.000-07:00

I'm lucky to finally reached the infamous Pata-an Mountain Resort. Located at the mountains of Ma-ao, Bago City, this year's (2013) company outing was held there and we had a blast taking pictures at the scenic waterfalls inside the resort. I am just in awe to discover that a small resort such as Pata-an have a waterfall and very accessible to resort goers. The place is like a mini-Mambucal. To locals, Mambucal is a big mountain resort in Negros Occidental with seven waterfalls to boast.

the entrance to the resort

this is the view that greeted us in the
morning of our overnight stay there

the view of the ice cold water
swimming pool and overnight cottage

one of the day accommodations
that one can rent at the resort

day cottages for rent at P500

my kids enjoying the scenic waterfalls,
not dangerous for kids since the pool is shallow,
just be careful not to slide though stones
are slippery and there's mud all over

the resort's canteen

the overnight cottage where we slept in, it has an
amazing view of the resort and the surrounding areas

the pavillion that can be rented at P1,500 per day

the pathway going in and out of the resort
great landscape design

the resort sign with their contact numbers

Entrance fee for adult and kids is at P50 each. Swimming pool fee is at P50/person. Overnight cottage fee ranges from P1,200 for 4 pax to P2,200 for 10 pax. Public shower and toilet rooms are available all over the resort. The resort's commissary accepts cooking service with a fee. Hot water and ice cubes can be bought there also. The resort has competent staff and are readily available if you need their services.

One thing I noticed though, being in a mountain and near to nature, the resort has no garbage segregation system nor policies on guest's garbage disposal activities except that oysters or talaba is not allowed. The place is clean though.

All in all, the resort is a great weekend get-away. I won't mind a second or more visit there. It's greatly refreshing just being there with all the greenery, fresh air, cool water and close to nature ambiance.

To go there, one can take the Murcia route or the Ma-ao route. The Murcia route is more exciting, scenic, a bit dangerous since there are areas that are steep but the travel is shorter if you're coming from Bacolod City. The Ma-ao route is a lot safer though especially if you have kids with you.

Enjoy!

WHAT'S NEW WITH CAMPUESTOHAN HIGHLAND RESORT?

2012-12-28T03:51:00.000-08:00

What's new with Campuestohan Highland Resort? Statues! Statues of Santa Claus, Elvis Presley, Michael Jordan and the super heroes! My kids had a grand time taking their pictures with each of the super heroes. And the resort added a sleigh, a belen and Santa Clause for the christmas season. I wonder what's for summer?

CAMPUESTOHAN HIGHLAND RESORT

2012-11-16T17:03:00.001-08:00

I recently joined my friends at Campuestohan Highland Resort. It's a five hectare new inland recreational facility that has two swimming pools, children's playground, day cottages and magnificent view of the Negros mountains and valleys. Rental fee of day cottages range from P500 to P1,000. Entrance fee is P150 per person inclusive of use of the pool.

Going there, one must have his/her own vehicle since public transportation is limited to a tricycle.Just follow the signboards that dot the road from Brgy. Granada to Alangilan in Bacolod City. No problem with parking space.

You have to bring a hat or umbrella on a sunny day since it's on top of a mountain with no trees yet.Sunlight goes straight to your skin, so have plenty of sunblock on hand.

Bring a camera since the place is a Facebook material.

ANHAWAN ISLAND

2012-07-23T01:49:00.000-07:00

Anhawan Island is located off-the coast of Sipalay City, Negros Occidental. The resort known as Macky 175 Island Beach Resort is owned by its ever hospitable administrator and owner, Mr. Ernany Maban Montenegro.

Drop off points going to the island would be Sipalay Tourism Office, Langub, Cartagena, Bulata, Inayawan, Ilihan and Sabang with corresponding round-trip boat fare depending on the distance.

On a day-trip, one can go snorkeling, diving, taking photographs and do underwater video. Entrance to the island cost P25 per head. Docking fee is at P250 per pumpboat. Diving is at P1,500.00 per head complete with gear, tank and guide. Snorkeling fee is P50 with gear, without gear is at P25.

One can also stay overnight. You can bring your own food but you have to buy drinking water and drinks from the owner. Overnight fee is at P1,500 good for 12-15 persons inclusive of entrance fee. If you opt to bring your own tent, that's allowed. The owner can also provide a "trapal" for those who are staying for the night. One can also rent a videoke machine at P1,500 and generator set at P2,000 for 24 hours of use.

The island is also known as Turtle Island since sea turtles regularly nest their eggs at the sands of Anhawan. In addition, the island boasts of crystal blue waters and rich marine life that abounds the sea of Sipalay.

Anhawan Island is now under a new ownership. No contact numbers available at the moment.

A DAY IN PATAG, SILAY CITY

2012-07-06T02:21:00.000-07:00

I was fortunate to join the group outing of my friend Grace in Patag, Silay City. It was my first time to be in Patag and all of us can't help but be amaze on the wonders of nature. The travel time from Bacolod to the foothills of Mt. Mandalagan and Mt. Marapara takes 3 hours more or less. The long and winding road makes you catch your breath as you go up to the mountains.

You may check this site for more details on Patag - http://www.waypoints.ph/detail_gen.php?wpt=patag

Entrance to the vacation house where we were billeted for the weekend

Beautiful vacation house

View from the pool

This view covers the Negros coastline, main highway
of Silay, nightscape of the city, one can also see the
arriving/departing planes of Silay-Bacolod Airport

This garden is maintained by the house caretaker

The swimming pool overlooking the Negros coastline

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NORTHLAND RESORT HOTEL @ MANAPLA

2012-07-02T01:06:00.000-07:00

Every year our company celebrate the summer season through our Annual Summer Splash activity. This year, we discovered a new place to hang out with our co-employees, an hour away from Bacolod City - the Northland Resort Hotel in the town of Manapla.

Kiddie's Pool

Pool for Adults

The deepest area of the kiddie's pool is at 4 feet

Cottages and slide near the kiddie's pool

Shower Room

Water Falls at the Big Pool

Entrance to the Resort. The entrance fee is inclusive of the
swimming pool fee which is a relief on the pocket.

The resort is right at the back of the Gustilo Town Center
in the town of Manapla, Negros Occidental

For more information on the resort, you may check out their Facebook account - https://www.facebook.com/pages/Northland-Resort-Hotel-Manapla

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"Little Baguio" of Negros

2012-04-18T04:18:00.001-07:00

Don Salvador Benedicto is a town situated at a distance of 47 kilometers from the Provincial Capitol and lies at an average of 2,495 feet above sea level. It has a very cold temperature ranging from 16 to 27 Celsius and coldest months are December, January and February.

My friend and I went there for a tree planting activity conducted by the Department of Education of Bacolod City and I had a great time enjoying the scenery of this place called the "Little Baguio" of Negros Island.

The Lion's Park along the Translink Highway

Visitors to the town trooped to get their pictures taken at the
Observation Deck of the Lion's Park

DSB Highway going to the town proper is lined by pine trees

View from the Observation Deck

Smaller version of the rice terraces

Highway going to Don Salvador Benedicto is a
stomach churning event to the first timers

http://www.donsalvadorbenedicto.gov.ph

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LA SALLE GRANADA ECO PARK

2012-03-25T15:56:00.001-07:00

The La Salle Granada Eco Park is one of my favorite place in Bacolod City. It is actually just a few minutes walk from where I live.I love how the park is integrated with nature and its produce. They have this orchid garden that sells orchids ^^ and the AgriBusiness major students of the University of St.La Salle tries their hand with sugarcane farming in the area.The close to nature environment is what I like best.

Entrance fee is P50, swimming pool is P50. There are many curious things one can do in the park so bring the whole family along. It's both educational and leisurely to be there.

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New Philippine Tourism Ad Campaign

2012-01-07T01:07:00.000-08:00

Now what's the fun things I can find in my home country? Here's for Negros Occidental -

1. White sand beaches
2. Undiscovered and unexplored islets and beaches
3. Videoke!
4. Sinulog Festival in Kabankalan City
5. Masskara Festival in Bacolod City
6. Electric Masskara still in Bacolod City
7. Chinese New Year festivities in Bacolod City
8. Seven waterfalls at Mambucal Mountain Resort
9. Beach Resorts in Sipalay City, Negros Occidental
10. Dinagsa Festival in Cadiz City
11. Riding in a jeepney
12. Riding in a trycicle
13. Riding a carabao (?)
14. Hot spring in Mambucal Mountain Resort
15. Cool Don Salvador Benedicto
16. Organic vegetables
17. Sinamak or Spiced Vinger
18. Inasal nga Manok or grilled chicken in Bacolod City
19. Sugarcane Plantation in Negros Island
20. Diving safari in Sipalay
21. Piayaya and Napoleones
22. Low crime rate
23. Century old churches
24. Seafood
25. Kinilaw nga Tanguigue
26. Pasalamat Festival in La Carlota City
27. Lifestyle Museums
28. La Carlota Drumbeaters
29. Underwater Paradise of Campomanes Bay in Sipalay
30. Anhawan Island in Sipalay
31. Carbin Reef in Sagay City
32. Danjugan Island in Cauayan
33. Town Fiestas
34. Trek to Mt. Canlaon
35. Buenos Aires Mountain Resort and Kipot Twin Falls in Bago City
36. Fresh water swimming pool resorts in Brgy. Alangilan in Bacolod City
37. Lanzones Festival in Brgy. Concepcion, Talisay City
38. Nightlife of Bacolod City
39. Art District in Mandalagan, Bacolod City
40. Lakawon Island Resort

Each town and city in Negros Island has its own unique attractions that one only need to experience them firsthand to appreciate them.

And may I say, Negros Island has a lot of potentials to be a must destination for tourists. Cooperation and collaboration between the government and private entities are necessary. Here's to the Philippine Tourism Ad Banner, cheers!

P.S. A lot of blah blah's has been made regarding the new tourism ad but I'd rather stick to the positive side of the Philippines. Ciao!

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DODOY'S ECO RESORT

2011-11-11T21:43:00.000-08:00

Brgy. Alangilan in Bacolod City boasts of several fresh water swimming pool resorts that can beat the heat during hot days. 16 km east of the city, Alangilan is known for its cool weather. Most days one can find bikers going to the village direction. Alangilan is also a favorite destination of joggers and walkers from neighboring villages such as Brgy. Granada, San Dionisio, Sta. Fe area.

Recently, my kids and I were given the opportunity to visit one of the resorts there with our neighbors. Dodoy’s Eco Resort is located in the street corner right across the village market. Ample parking area since there is a vacant lot across the establishment.

View of the main swimming pool

Entrance fee cost P30 for adults and kids over 10 years old and, P20 for kids 10 years old and below. The entrance fee is inclusive of the use of the swimming pool. Day cottages are available - concrete cottage is P300, nipa hut style cottage is at P200, umbrella, table and 4 chairs can be rented at P100.

You can bring your own food or buy at the sari-sari store inside the resort. A grilling area is also provided to those who want to grill or cook their food.

Big pool

Main attraction of the resort is of course the big swimming pool and the kiddie’s pool. They are not strict with regards to your swimming attire. Shorts and t-shirt is allowed. However, one thing I find so uncomfortable would be the tiled floor in the day cottages and the area surrounding the main pool. I kept thinking somebody might slip and hurt themselves. True enough, my son had a deep wound on his knee when he accidentally hit a corner area of the pool. The tiles are slippery and you have to walk carefully around the pool. Really!

Kiddie's pool

The resort is just recently established so it still needs a lot of improvement. Landscaping is very much needed to make it look pleasing. Their mini-zoo contains one monkey and three baby turtles ^^ Overnight accommodation is available at P1,500.00 per room with its own toilet and bath. There’s no air conditioning unit provided since according to the staff - Alangilan is pretty cool at night.

Kids checking out the lone monkey cage

The resort opens at 8am and closes at 5pm. Those who are staying overnight can have the use of the pool until 12midnight.

Going there one has to take the Alangilan jeepney at the Burgos Market Terminal. Fare cost is at P18.00 per person.

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Canonoy Beach Resort, Negros Occidental Philippines

2011-10-10T20:17:00.000-07:00

Canonoy Beach Resort is located in the municipality of Hinigaran, Province of Negros Occidental, Philippines. Hinigaran is a first-class municipality and currently hosts numerous beach and swimming pool resorts.

Coming from Bacolod, one can easily find the place by just taking a bus at the South Ceres Terminal in Lopez Jaena Street in Bacolod City. Take the bulilit bus plying Hinigaran and inform the bus conductor that you want to go down at "bangga" Canonoy or Brgy. Anahaw. Bus fare cost P40, the bus ride takes 50 minutes to 1 hour, 40 minutes if you drive your own car from Bacolod. Take a tricycle to bring you to the resort, fare is P10 per person. The entrance fee is P15 for adult and P10 for kids. Day cottages rental fee ranges from P200-300 at Phase 1. A new phase was recently added to the resort with an adult and kids pool to boot. Phase II entrance fee is P25 while pool fee is P40 for kids and adult, day cottage cost P600.

Overnight cottages are available on both Phase I and II. Rental fee ranges from P1,000-P3,000. One can bring along the whole family because the place is quite affordable. One can bring a portable stove or charcoal if one wish to cook their own food. If you opt to go there for a day tour only, food is available at the resort restaurant. Although when you're on weekends, one needs to order an hour or an hour and half before you wish to eat. The restaurant can only accept order so much and rely on a regular gas stove. I wonder if they know there’s a high pressure burner for fast cooking. Though when you’re on the beach, everything seems to go slowly and everybody’s so understanding unless you’re hungry from that traveling….heheheh! It is best that upon arrival you order food first then check the place out, then just go back to the resto when your food is ready.

I also discovered that one can rent a fishing boat at P150 for 15 minutes and sail the length of the Paradiso Beach Resort and Makikiling area. Fun indeed!

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Magnificent Boracay Sunset

2011-05-18T00:28:00.000-07:00

Thanks to my Boracay roommate Candy Hung for the pics ^^

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Bulubito-on Beach Resort, Hinigaran, Philippines

2011-05-16T07:26:00.000-07:00

Bulubito-on Beach was the place to hang out during my high school days. My barkadas and I would spent Saturdays there and wonderful memories were made. Even until now, it's a fave place to go on weekends or family outings and gatherings.

Bulubito-on Beach derived its name from the Bulubito-on trees surrounding the area. Bulubito-on tree has this fruit (not edible) that shaped like a star. Coming from Bacolod City, it's a 50-60 minutes bus ride. Ceres Bus fare cost P39 (one-way). Take a tricycle at Bangga Bulubito-on with fare costing P5-10 each. Entrance fee to the resort cost P10 for adults and P5 for kids. Day huts or cottages cost between P200 to P700 depending on the size. There's a social hall that one can rent of which can accommodate 50 pax at one time. They do have cottages with sleeping areas (2) but you have to convince the owner to rent it overnight. They don't encourage overnight stayers since the resort doesn't have security personnel.

We like the beach because it is not "cantilado" meaning the level of the sand is mostly plain and doesn't go deep and shallow and so on....safe for the kids. The sand is not even mud compared to Punta TayTay in Bacolod City. The resort has a sari-sari store, bathing area at P3 per bath per person and toilet use is free. You have to bring your own food if you intend to eat lunch there. They don't have a carinderia or restaurant where you can order.

Bulubito-on Beach is just a simple place but the memories created in this place is priceless.

White Beach, Boracay, Philippines

2011-05-16T06:22:00.000-07:00

Boracay in Malay, Aklan does not belong to Negros Occidental...^^ but nonetheless, I would like to share my discoveries about this great white beach of the Philippines!

Boracay is an island of the Philippines located approximately 315 km (200 miles) south of Manila and 2 km off the northwest tip of Panay Island in the Western Visayas region of the Philippines. In 1990, it was voted by the BMW Tropical Beach Handbook as one of the best beaches in the world and again in 1996 by British publication TV Quick as the world's number one tropical beach. The island comprises the barangays of Manoc-Manoc, Balabag, and Yapak (3 of the 17 barangays which make up the municipality of Malay), and is under the administrative control of the Philippine Tourism Authority in coordination with the Provincial Government of Aklan. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Boracay

If one is coming from Negros Occidental, Philippines one needs to ride a ferry boat going to Iloilo (1 hour and 15 minutes) and at the Iloilo port one can ride vans going to Boracay at P350 each (approximately 5-6 hours). However, you have to wait for sometime before the van get filled up.If you opt to ride a Ceres Bus, the Iloilo-Caticlan fare is around P335 for regular passengers and P270 for student's fare.

Arriving at the Caticlan Jetty Port, one needs to pay the Environmental Fee of P75, Terminal Fee of P50 and Boat Fare at P25 (one-way). Going back, you only need to pay Terminal Fee and Boat Fare. The rates is as of April 2011.

There are many activities one can do in Boracay, here are my recommendations:

1. Do water sports such as diving, helmet diving, jet skiing, wind surfing, parasailing, snorkeling, flyfish, banana boat and sailing at sunset.

PUKA BEACH

2. Go island hopping to go sightseeing. Ask the boatman where Manny Pacquiao's vacation house is and do have a stop over at Puka Beach where you can find puka shells used to make necklaces, earrings and other accessories.

3. Food Tripping - hotels, resorts and restaurants offer a variety of food cuisine at any budget. I like the breakfast, lunch and dinner buffet at La Carmella de Boracay, the Korean dishes at Seoul Restaurant and Taling's Carindera at Station 3 for those who crave for Filipino food at a very affordable price. Mang Inasal, Andok's, Yellow Cab and Shakey's are very much present. European, American and Asian food you can find it there.

4. Night Out - Cocomangas, Wave, MO2 and more offers a variety of entertainment at night especially on Thursdays and Fridays where the locals also go nightclubbing and hobnobbing with the foreign and local tourists.

WILLY'S ROCK

5. Land Tour - one can rent an ATV, tricycle or multi-cab to go sightseeing on land. You can visit Mt. Luho where the highest peak of the island can be found, pass by at Puka Beach, go to the northern part of Station 1 and discover that the sand on the beach is fine and powdery compared to those found in Station 2 & 3. Don't forget to take pictures at Willy's Rock.

6. Shopping - D'Mall is the most popular area to go shopping for pasalubong but there are other shopping areas along the beach or inner streets.

7. Walking or Jogging - Boracay can be mean to one's diet but it's good to know that one can go walking or jogging along the white beach early morning or late afternoon to lose that weigh gain from eating buffets at dinner.

8. Massage - my favorite activity! One can have a whole body massage under a coconut tree at P250 for half hour and P350 for one hour. If you opt to have a massage in the privacy of your hotel room, you need to add P50 for the hotel charge.

9. Catch the sunset - it always amazes me how the sunset in Boracay can make you catch your breath. It can make you say "Thank you Lord for this wonderful day!" I bet there are thousands of pictures taken of the Boracay sunset. I observed people have this awed look on their faces while looking at the sun setting and many still are taking pictures until the sun sets in the horizon. Trying to catch the majesty and awesomeness of the whole scene. Boracay sunset is really, really beautiful.

10. Swimming - my all time favorite....swimming in the clear, blue, crystal waters of Boracay...heaven!

Costa Aguada Island Resort

2011-04-20T07:26:00.000-07:00

Inampulugan Island across the Strait

The Costa Aguada Island Resort is a great getaway place if you want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Situated in Inampulugan Island, Province of Guimaras, the resort offers a variety of activities for the whole family to enjoy.

My family and I went there to spend the holy week. They got this great package that cost us P15,000.00 for 3 days and 2 nights inclusive of welcome drinks & lei, full board meals, room accommodation, boat transfers, guided tram tour of the island and free use of swimming pool.

The old port across the Turtle pond

Striking a pose at the pool

On our first day, we had a tour of the island on a tram. The staff that met us at the port, sang a welcome song and served us lunch were our tour guides too. We were informed that the resort employees were trained to do various tasks just in case they will be short of staff. The tour brought us to the village where residents are families of the resort employees. They showed us an exhibit area where the soaps used at the resort are being made. They make organic soaps that you can buy really cheap P15 each great for souvenirs and give-aways. Then we were brought to the turtle pond where turtles are raised. Unfortunately, only one turtle remained. We were told that the turtles died when a damaged bunker ship spilled crude oil in the area. Next stop were two cemented bunks used as a look out point by the Japanese during WWII. Last stop was the recreational facilities - horse back riding, swimming pool, billiard hall, children's playground, etc. Dinner was served at the poolside. We were treated to a night of songs and music. Funny though, the band they hired that night was from Bacolod City and the singer was someone I knew. Small world indeed. First day impression on the resort - what a great big place!

Us-usan Island

Nagarao Island

Second day was quite an adventure. Breakfast was served under the coconut trees and near the beach. At around 9am we joined the other guests to an island hopping trip. First stop was Nagarao Island. Nagarao is smaller than Inampulugan. The resort also offers overnight accommodation at a package. After touring the islet and taking pictures, we transferred to Us-Usan Island, a much smaller islet. It is a sandbar, pearly white beach, clear blue waters with mangroves and coconut trees. There's only one single hut in the islet. The area facing the Panay Strait looks scary though coz the waves were really big! We were allowed to swim for two hours on the side where the sea is calm. Surprises of all surprises...the staff brought our lunch and served all the guests buffet style right on the beach. Imagine we were served hot soup in a sandbar with a waiting staff to boot. How cool is that? A little downside on my part though, the water is so deep I was constantly worrying about my kids.We headed back to the resort late afternoon and the ride was rough. Waves are choppy so we got soaked in sea water, again! Thank God we arrived whole, tired, hungry and full of happy memories for the day. We still have time for personal activities before dinner so my kids went back to swimming again this time at the resort pool while making friends with the other kids. Dinner was served in an open field near the pool with a bonfire. Magical!

On our last day, we decided to leave after lunch so we took a swim at the beach in front of our cottage and bought some souvenirs. Our boat ride back was a little scary though. Big waves! The boat was going down and up, one can see walls of water on both sides of the boat. I realized that it is always best to travel early morning if one is taking a boat. Since the sea is calm even on high tide but if its between 1pm-3pm the sea is really choppy. It's just my observation.

The pick up point for Costa Aguada is at the town of Pulupandan. We arranged for a taxi to pick us up at house and bring us to Pulupandan and vice versa. The resort can also arrange airport pick-up if one is flying in from Manila or Cebu. Over-all the service was great, the food was excellent, our stay is unforgettable. The children kept asking us when will be our next trip there.Who knows?

Just one last thing - the drinking water in the island is spring water. Clean, sparkling, sweet and a great body cleanser ^^

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