Indie Escape: Philippine Travel Tips, Itineraries And Events

Columbia Eco Trail Run 5 - Cebu

noreply@blogger.com (IndieEscape) — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 05:51:00 +0000

The Columbia Eco Trail Run series in Cebu kicks off 2012 with its toughest race course yet.

Race organizers Ralph Pilapil and Larry Honoridez have collaborated with Lilo-an Mayor Vincent Franco "Duke" Frasco, a runner-adventurer himself, to make this race one for the books.

The race is set on a 12.6 kilometer decorated rock and roll trail in Barangay Mulao, Lilo-an (about an hour from Cebu City).

Just a background: Last year, Lilo-an hosted one of the most notoriously difficult off-road race out there, the Xterra.

Participants will need to manage through 2 river sections, up and down Mt. Lanigid, do some boulder scrambling and pass by a hanging bridge and stone ark -- all under the four hour cut-off time.

Is this your kind of adrenaline rush?

Then swing your way to ROX Ayala, Columbia SM or Liloan City Hall

Rock and roll through hills and streams

REGISTRATION BOOTHS: ROX Ayala Center Cebu, Columbia SM Cebu and Lilo-an Municipal Hall

REGISTRATION FEES:
early bird P250 (Jan 9-15)
regular P300 (Jan 16-Feb 4)
*additional P100 for singlet

**Free singlets will be given away to first 75 registrants in Columbia, and first 30 registrants in ROX.

PRIZES:
1st Men's/Women's - P3,000 GC, P3,000 cash, trophy
2nd Men's/Women's - P2,000 GC, P2,000 cash, trophy
3rd Men's/Women's - P1,000 GC, P1,000 cash, trophy

This will be the 5th event of its kind (the first four were all held successfully last year). The race is open to everyone - beginners and pros alike. A "Trail Running 101" clinic will be held on Feb 20 at ROX while the race briefing is scheduled on January 27.

Photos taken from Philippines Columbia Eco Trail Cebu Facebook page.

5 Must-Visit Churches In Cebu City + Itinerary

noreply@blogger.com (IndieEscape) — Sun, 08 Jan 2012 13:41:00 +0000

Cebu is home to some of the oldest and ornate churches in the Philippines. At least five of them can be found within city limits, so these can easily be added, into your standard Cebu City itinerary.

1. Basilica Minore del Sto. Niño
Osmeña Blvd., Cebu City
Contact numbers: 2556699/2556697/2554498/2556698

Possibly the most-visited church in Cebu; tourists arrive to the Basilica in busloads, also hitting the Magellan's Cross monument and City Hall in just one stop. Being one of the oldest, this 16th century church is admirable both for its resilience and its connection to the people.

Sinulog 2012 - this year's festival of the Holy Child Jesus, Sto Niño - is slated only a week away. Just as in the past years, thousands of devotees are expected to grace the church grounds in honor of the city's former patron saint.

Inside the church, a small chamber houses a replica of the Santo Nino image. Devotees enter this area by passing through the halls of the basilica, and on a busy day, the line can extend all the way outside the church compound.

The church was originally made of wood and nipa, but since its renovation in the 18th century, the coral stone walls have remained intact to this day. The altar and the ceiling paintings are notable for their extravagance. One could see the intricacy of the craftsmanship involved in the stained glass windows and the wooden doors of this neo-classical structure.

2. Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral
F. Urdaneta Street, Cebu City
Contact numbers: 2558823/2536422

Just a few steps away from the decorated Sto. Nino church is where the Province's Archdiocese is seated. Locally referred to as simply the Cathedral, this grand church is witness to many a secular and political movements.

The cathedral was recently renovated in time for its 75th year celebration (again, one of the oldest). The baroque exterior is maintained, but the interior is now laden with grandoise. I think it has also been airconditioned, which makes it ideal for big wedding ceremonies.

The Cebu cathedral has a more solemn atmosphere, compared to its neighbor, Sto. Nino Basilica. It must be partly due to less foot traffic and vendors outside the structure.

3. Archdiocesan Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe
Guadalupe, Cebu City
Contact number: 254-4593

The Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe church sits atop the hills of the biggest barangay in Cebu. Our Lady of Guadalupe is the patroness saint of the province, and is believed to have miraculous powers.

A wide nave and high ceilings characterize this huge church. Although it cannot compare with the flamboyance of the first two churches, it is still worth visiting for its historical value.

After the first successful baptismal of Filipinos in Cebu by the Spaniards, three images were given: the Santo Nino to Queen Juana, the Ecce Homo to Raja Humabon (tribe chief), and the Virgin Mary for the Cebuano people. Soon, the image of the Virgin Mary was left forgotten inside a cave. Its re-discovery is depicted by a curious historical account.

During the annual Sinulog festival, a procession is held to bring the image of Our Lady of Guadalupe to Basilica Minore del Santo Nino. She spends 4 days there, and then joins the fluvial procession in Mactan channel. After the festival, She is brought back to the parish, this time with the image of Santo Nino. The Santo Nino stays there for one night and is then returned to the Basilica the next day.

4. Santo Tomas de Villanueva Parish
Pardo, Cebu City
Contact number: 4163575

Photo borrowed from Rudi Roels

The underdog of this list is an imposing fortress-looking church located in Pardo. A Spanish engineer-architect, Domingo de Escondrillas, is resposible for its Latin-Byzantine Order of design.

The white coral stone walls are at least a century old. The heavy looking facade with its rounded corner posts (pardon my architecture lingo), also the lack of images of angels, cherubs or saints make it look like a fortess.

Photo borrowed from El Pardo Parish website

A symbol of the all-seeing-eye is inscribed on its facade, which doesn't seem to be there in this old photo (also taken from El Pardo Parish website).

The church's turn-of-the-century charm is also evident inside. One would think that the interior design, particularly the floor tiles, have been around since its reconstruction in 1880.

5. Cebu Taoist Temple
Beverly Hills Village, Lahug, Cebu City

Another Cebu itinerary staple is the Cebu Taoist Temple. This might sound a bit off from the rest of this list, because it is a non Catholic place of worship. Nonetheless, I included it on the list because it is possibly the most elaborate of its kind in the city.

Majestic structures tower the posh village of Beverly Hills in Lahug. Chinese architecture is very much evident in the pagoda style roofing of most structures. Other attractions include a replica of the great wall of China and a life-size dragon statue.

After climbing almost a hundred steps to reach the main temple hall, any visitor would feel a sense of calmness. Some may owe it to the quiet surroundings or the less busy shuffles of feet, but it must also be coming from the balanced chi of the entire place.

Here is the suggested itinerary to cover all these 5 spots:

This whole trip should cost less than P500 per person because you'll be taking public transportation; otherwise, taking a cab should set you back at least P500 more.

Counting Down From Up High (New Year In Sagada)

noreply@blogger.com (IndieEscape) — Fri, 23 Dec 2011 16:44:00 +0000

Solano, Nueva Vizaya

Ayuyang bar was just calling it a night when we started to pack our bags from its 2nd storey residence. Having just concluded a 5-day post-Christmas hairpin road trip of North Luzon with PALMC, Larry and I decided to push the envelope and head to Sagada to welcome 2009.

The night is young in Ayuyang bar

I set my alarm to 4:00AM, but I was well awake before that, desperately trying to accumulate more minutes into what one could loosely call sleep. After a quick (and freezing shower), we thanked Sir Ely (the bar owner who's also a fellow mountaineer) for allowing us to camp upstairs. We then set to the town center on foot.

Banaue rice terraces: Looking like stairways to heaven

Banaue, Ifugao

From Solano, we haphazardly journeyed on commute. Sunrise greeted us as our jeepney traced the mountain roads of Nueva Vizcaya. The smell of cool mountain air quickly replaced the closed, sweaty atmosphere inside our overloaded jeepney.

Still feeling the Christmas spirit, I gave my ration of peppermint candies to a child sitting in front of me before we parted ways in Lagawe. From there, we took a jeepney to Banaue.

Legendary Eduardo Masferre is very much alive in this cafe

The clouds were hanging low when we arrived in Banaue at 7:30 in the morning. Our grumbling stomachs ushered us into the first cafe we saw. Masferre Cafe, or so I remember it was called - mostly because its walls were decked with the famous photographer's works - was a quaint hangout.

Al fresco dining verandas line this side of the street showcasing the postcard picturesque view of the rice terraces beyond. A quick breakfast and a short walk to the main road later, we were on a rickety bus headed to the big town of Bontoc.

Bump and shake - good thing the roads have improved.

Bontoc, Mountain Province

I felt lost in time when we arrived in Bontoc. It seemed like it was business as usual for the locals. In Manila, the scene would be very different - sidewalk drinking before noon, firecrackers on the street surprising passersby, closed business establishments, groups of friends milling about - there's an overall heigtened sense of merrymaking.

We replenished our cash in this stop because we know there are no ATMs in Sagada (later we'll find out that it already has one). Being one of the guys who initially established the Bontoc Circuit mountain trails, Larry knows his way around this area. He led our stroll to the jeepney stop which would take us to Sagada.

Pine-fresh air

Sagada, Mountain Province

The top-load ride to Sagada cleared everything that's left of my hangover. I was ready for another night of celebration. The air was frigid even at lunch time when we arrived. Backpacker country was teeming with local and international visitors. We were lucky to find an available room at St. Jo's.

*You can find my detailed Sagada itinerary here.

St. Joseph's Inn is popular for its cheap rooms, and partly because it's one of the first to offer some type of accommodation in Sagada. I remember staying in the same place during my first visit to Sagada back when I was in high school.

NYE mass at 10:00PM

The first thing I was worried about for our New Year's countdown was the 9:00PM curfew. But it turned out that we didn't have to worry, because as the night went deeper, it seems that the law also got more lenient.

New Year's Countdown

Media noche at the classy Log Cabin Restaurant was part of the agenda. Each year, French chef locally known as 'Chef Aklay' prepares a special dinner buffet for NYE. Some visitors come to Sagada only for that, but we missed out because all the seats have been booked. We settled for a hearty dinner at Masferre's instead (again, named after the famous photographer).

Here is a sample menu (Dec 31, 2011), taken from their Facebook page

An annual bonfire gathering highlights the New Year's eve celebration in Sagada. Although we opted for the more intimate bonfire within St. Joseph's grounds, we did not escape the echoing ethnic gongs that the locals played (and danced to) non-stop until the next day - a New Year tradition.

Met some Pinoys, some French, some Swedes - it was an all-star cast

The bulk of our New Year's eve celebration took place at St. Jo's porch, meeting other backpackers and exchanging stories whilst sipping coke-rum from a Nalgene bottle. Overall, it was a huge shift from my previous New Year experience in Las Vegas.

The intimate setting and the friendly vibe of everyone provided warmth to a celebration spent away from my family. High above Luzon, the fog crept back in, or maybe that was smoke from the big bonfire. Either way waking up among the clouds and the beat of the gongs is a sure signal that the New Year has arrived with hope and prosperity.

// Welcome to Indie Diaries - I am now putting a metaphorical face to my blog. Here is my first post. Enjoy! //

Bohol City Tour Itinerary

noreply@blogger.com (IndieEscape) — Wed, 30 Nov 2011 15:32:00 +0000

A wonder of nature, no wonder!

Backpacking | Bohol City Tour Itinerary
Bohol Island Province, Philippines
Hours: whole day tour
Specs: Historical churches, river cruise, lunch buffet, Tarsiers, chocolate hills, souvenir shopping, ATV adventure, first time essential destinations.

Notes:
. This itinerary is ideal for those arriving in Tagbilaran, Bohol in the morning. This should also work for those staying in Panglao Island or other Bohol beach resorts.
. You can have breakfast in Tagbilaran City, where you’d also arrange your van rental.
. After breakfast, head to Tagbilaran Port (Pier) parking lot where rental cars can be found. Drivers are very friendly, so work your haggling skills to get a good price. Basically, the newer the vehicle, the higher the price.
. The drivers will most likely have their own tour package to offer, where they will base their price. Some may even have laminated pictures of the destinations. Rentals can range from P1500 up to P4500 for a whole day tour (excluding entrance fees and meals).
. To save money on van rental, you can join other groups to fill the van. Just make sure you leave enough space for pasalubongs!
. The first stop, hinagdanan cave is a 10-minute drive from Tagbilaran City center. Entrance fee is P15.
. The Blood Compact monument is located along the road on your way to Baclayon church. A quick stop for photos is recommended.
. The Baclayon Church is a must-see historical structure. It is debatably the second oldest stone church in the country (after San Agustin Church in Manila). Entrance fee to the church museum is P25.
. Entrance fee to the Phyton sanctuary is P15. It houses the world largest and heaviest phyton snake, named Prony.
. You can find tarsiers in many places around Bohol, so ask your driver to take you to the nearest one before you have your lunch.
. Come lunch time, troop to Loay dock, the starting point of Loay-Loboc river cruise, for a scenic buffet lunch. Filipino dishes are served in the buffet. It costs about P300 to go on board, plus a P100 conservation fee. The cruise features a cultural show along the river, so prepare some change for donations. The whole noontime affair should set you back around P400.
. If possible, get off at the Loboc dock, to check out the hanging bridge. That area is also popular for their cheap souvenirs and snacks (yes, more food!).
. The Chocolate Hills view deck in Carmen is a 30-minute drive away from Loboc. Don’t forget to make a quick stop over at the man-made forest in Bilar.
. The entrance fee to Chocolate Hills view deck in Carmen is P50 per person, plus parking fee for your van.
. For the more adventurous, an ATV ride through the chocolate hills is the next agenda (P1200-P1500 per person). If you prefer a more leisurely activity, you can go to the butterfly sanctuary in Bilar instead (P20 entrance fee).
. Review your day’s adventures (and pictures) over dinner at Bohol Bee Farm, before heading back to home base – at a Bohol resort (Panglao or Tagbilaran), Back to the airport, or back to the wharf.

Options:
. Going around is easier when you rent a van, but local transportation is also available in the form of tricycles.
. If you’re going alone, you may look into renting a ‘single’ motorbike instead.
. You can take a morning swim in Hinagdanan cave; just bring a set of dry clothes.
. If you’re done with Baclayon church ahead of schedule, you can also drop by the Albuquerque church, another turn-of-the-century church.
. You may skip the buffet lunch and opt for a regular carinderia lunch instead. After lunch, you can go to Loboc for a short river cruise, less the food.
. The Chocolate Hills view deck in Carmen is being given a run for its money by the Sagbayan peak view deck because it features other attractions like a swimming pool. This is farther, though, so you may have to pay extra on van rental and maybe skip the ATV ride.
. Other activities in Bohol include diving, island hopping, hiling in Magsaysay park and bungee jumping in Danao.
. If time permits, or if you decide to skip one major stop on the itinerary, maybe you can convince your driver to venture west, to visit the Punta Cruz watchtower and the Loon church.

Budget: around P1365 per pax (plus P1500 per person for ATV ride)
Budget estimate for 4 people:
2500 Rental van/car
560 entrance fees
1600 Lunch buffet/river cruise
[6000 ATV ride]
600 (donations, tips)
200 misc

*tricycle is a 3-wheeled passenger motorcycle

Blood compact monument

No flash photography to these cute little creatures!

Haha! let me indulge here ;p

Bilar man-made forest, very peaceful

River cruise

Twas raining, but the show must go on!

Creepy looking tree

At the Chocolate Hills view deck in Carmen

Rock Climbing in Cantabaco, Cebu Itinerary: 1 day

noreply@blogger.com (IndieEscape) — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 16:28:00 +0000

Vertical crawl

Rock Climbing | Cantabaco, Cebu Rock Climbing Itinerary
Sitio Silangan, Cantabaco, Cebu
Hours from Cebu City: around 1 hour
Specs: Rock climbing on bolted limestone wall, 5.6 to 5.14 difficulty walls, rappelling, freshwater river, possibility of caving

Notes:
. Cantabaco is accessible by V-hire. The fare is P70 from Citilink terminal in Cebu City. Take a V-hire going to Lutopan township and ask the driver to drop you off at Silangan (Lutopan is the town after this).
. Going to Cantabaco, you will pass by the old highway which winds around mountain sides. Back in the day (colonial period), it only allows one way passage – going to Cebu City in the mornings, and back to Toledo in the evenings – hence it is narrow, but the view is awesome. Waterfalls along the roadside are not rare, but so as landslides during rainy season.
. Silangan is a small town, so locals know each other very well. Don’t be shy to ask around if you need a local guide to bring you to the wall.
. There is only a handful of local climbers from Silangan. Having minimal climbing equipment, it is advisable that you bring your own stuff if you plan to stay for days.
. First time climbers are welcome, your guide should be able to lend you necessary equipment such as a rope, rock shoes, harness, carabiners and others. You may have to take turns if there are other climbers that day.
. Cantabaco’s limestone wall is known in the international climbing scene, so there’s a regular stream of foreign visitors in the place.
. Local guides do not charge a fixed fee for their services. It’s up to you to give them a generous tip for their services.
. The trek to the wall face takes about 10 minutes, passing by water streams where you’d have to cross on bamboo bridges.
. A brief stopover to a small house is required for you to register your names and pay a fee of P10.
. Rock climbing is an exhausting sport, be sure not to over-exert yourself or else you’d have to endure sore muscles the next day.
. Bring your own food so you can have lunch on site. You may also have lunch at the small carinderias (eatery) or ihaw-ihaw (grilled street food) places.
. Put on insect repellant because ants and mosquitoes live abundantly in the area. You can also light up some Katol (anti-mosquito incense).
. After lunch, you may proceed to the top of the wall to fix the lines for rappelling. Otherwise, you may just check it out for sightseeing.
. On a normal day, Cebu-bound V-hires will be fully occupied when they pass Silangan. It’s best to take a habal-habal to Lutopan terminal to catch a ride back to the city, particularly if you’re traveling as a group.
. The last V-hire trip back to Cebu City is around 7:00PM

Options:
. Taking a private car to Cantabaco may be more comfortable, especially if you’re bringing plenty of climbing gear.
. There are rooms in the Spring Park Mountain Resort (P100/night per person) if you plan to stay overnight. It’s right along the road, so you can’t miss it. Home stay accommodations are better, though. Check out Manang Virgie’s place (P100/night per person) or the Priest’s place for cozy fan rooms.
. You don’t have to worry about food when you choose the homestay option, because the house cook can whip up your favorite ulam for a minimal fee.
. If you decide to pass on rappelling, you can pack up early and head down the river to freshen up. There’s also an option of dipping in the Spring Resort pool (P75 entrance fee).
. If you’re up for more adventure, you can try canyoning in Kawasan Falls in the town of Badian, Cebu.
. Caving is also something to explore as locals talk about cave entrances around the area.

Budget: around P435 per pax (excluding guide fees)
Budget estimate for 4 people:
280 V-hire to Silangan, Cantabaco
280 V-hire back to Cebu City
400 room
80 habal habal
500 food share
--- guide fee
200 misc (registration, etc.)

*V-hire – van for hire (commuter)
*Katol – spiral anti-mosuito incense
*ulam – food viand
*carinderia – eatery
*ihaw-ihaw - grilled street food

The wall was reportedly bolted by Power Up boys

Tim Rieder and Larry Honoridez

Carrie(?) rockin' the crag!

Our day camp. Those munchkins were attacked by ants in minutes.

Multiple anchors

First time on natural wall.

That's a katol!

Reached the top! 'Kiss the wall' moment right there.

Ultimate Northern Exposure Itinerary: 9 days

noreply@blogger.com (IndieEscape) — Sat, 29 Oct 2011 17:33:00 +0000

Northern Luzon holds a treasure trove of adventure destinations waiting for eager trod seekers. Seat sales left and right, everybody's heading south of Manila. When was the last time you did a road trip up North?

On January 22-30, 2012, the North Philippines Visitor’s Bureau (NPVB) in cooperation with Manila North Tollways Corporation and Victory Liner will be holding Lakbay Norte 3. A 9-day Media Tour of North Philippines.*

The event is 100% sponsored and SIX LUCKY BLOGGERS CAN JOIN THE TOUR!!! Simply fill out an application form and send it to info@northphilippines.org . Be sure to read complete blogger contest mechanics, too.

A whole feast of activities are lined up including rappelling in Bulacan, biking/kayaking in Laoag, white water rafting in Kalinga and Jungle Survival in Subic. The tentative itinerary is posted here. Psyched yet? I know I am! The last day of submission is on October 31, 2011.

Take a look at the highlights of my last Northern exposure (with Philippine Airlines Mountaineering Club):

Dec 26, 2008
a. Calle Crisologo, Vigan City, Ilocos Sur;
Dec 27, 2008
b. Cape Bojeador Lighthouse, Ilocos Norte;
c. Bangui Windmills, Ilocos Norte;
d. Patapat Bridge, Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte;
e. KM 714 (last kilometer marker(?) via Ilocos National Highway), Junction to Sta. Ana, Tuguegarao and Aparri, KM 642 (last kilometer marker via Cagayan National Highway);
Dec 28, 2008
f. Beach, Palaui Island, Cagayan;
g. Cape Engaño, Palaui Island, Cagayan;
h. Abandoned lighthouse, Cape Engano, Palaui Island;
Dec 29, 2008
i. Port Irene surplus vehicles, Sta. Ana, Cagayan;
Dec 30, 2008
j. Boat to Callao Caves, Peñablanca, Cagayan;
k. 2 chamber, Callao caves, Penablanca, Cagayan;
l. Callao eco-tourism zone, entrance to Callao caves;
m. Ayuyang bar, Solano, Nueva Vizcaya;
Dec 31, 2008
n. Bontoc town proper, Mountain Province;
o. Banaue town proper, Ifugao;
p. New year mass, St. Mary's Church, Sagada, Mt. Province;
Jan 1, 2009
q. Lumiang burial cave, Sagada, Mountain Province;
r. Echo valley hanging coffins, Sagada, Mt. Province;
Jan 2, 2009: at least 12 hours on the road back to Manila. Thanks PALMC!

Those 8 days got me acquainted with North Luzon, but there is so much more to experience! I will go pack my bag now if LAKBAY NORTE 3 picks me!

*Some text and logo taken from http://northphilippines.org/events/lakbaynorte3contest
*Photos taken from my old blog http://indieescape.multiply.com

New7Wonders Bid: Puerto Princesa Underground River

noreply@blogger.com (IndieEscape) — Wed, 26 Oct 2011 18:49:00 +0000

The voting period for the New7Wonders of Nature is nearing its end. In 15 days, 7 natural wonders around the world will be given the official title. The Puerto Princesa Underground River in Palawan is among the 28 finalists, and it is now upon us to cast our votes and put it to the top!

HOW TO VOTE:
1. Visit www.new7wonders.com/vote-2
2. Text PPUR to 2861
3. Phone vote (instructions here www.new7wonders.com/vote-by-phone)

The Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park (PPSRNP) is home to a wealth of natural gifts - the 8.2 km Underground River is only one of them. It boasts of a rich ecosystem from land to sea (and undersea), whose forests are among the most diverse in Asia and waters considered to be the last frontier of the Philippines.

The Puerto Princesa Underground River is hidden under a distinguishing landmark, a limestone karst believed to be around 16-20 million years old. Water from the Cabayugan River is carried down Mt. Bloomfield, providing water to small farms and then passing through Mt. St. Paul as an underground river whose cave system is among the most complex in the world. This fully navigable river flows directly to the sea, a feature only a few underground rivers have.

Here is a short video about Puerto Princesa Underground River:

Watch live streaming video from ppurtv at livestream.com

Positioning our country as having one of the Seven Wonders of Nature will mean a lot for the people of Puerto Princesa, the Philippine tourism, and most importantly - the biodiversity conservation efforts in PPSRNP.

Indie Escape supports the Puerto Princesa Underground River bid for the New Seven Wonders of Nature!

Video and photo taken from www.puerto-undergroundriver.com

Mt. Makiling Traverse Itinerary: day hike

noreply@blogger.com (IndieEscape) — Thu, 06 Oct 2011 07:26:00 +0000

We're on top of Los Banos!

Hiking, Mountain Climbing | Mt. Makiling (Maktrav) Traverse Itinerary

Jumpoff: Barangay San Bartolome, Santo Tomas, Batangas City

Trail end: UPLB Campus, Los Baños, Laguna

1103 MASL (Peak 3); 1092 MASL (Peak 2)

Specs: Strenous trekking, boulder rock sections, rain forest, wild flora and fauna, limatiks (tropical leeches), UPLB, mud spring, hot spring side trip.

Trekking time: 11+ hours

Notes:

. Mt. Makiling Traverse or MakTrav is preferably done as a day hike by mountaineers for several reasons: to keep a light load, maintain a fast pace and avoid camping out in the mountain’s limatik-infested forest.

. To go to Sto. Tomas in Batangas, take any bus bound to Batangas or Quezon. Many bus companies have their terminals in Gil Puyat/Buendia LRT area and EDSA. If you’re coming from South, you may catch these buses in Alabang area.

. Bus fare from Gil Puyat/Buendia is about P110.

. The trike fare from the Public Market to San Bartolome is about P50-P80.

. Registration fee in Barangay San Bartolome is P20.

. The trek starts on a dirt road that leads to the mountain foothills. The trail narrows down quickly as you begin ascending.

. You can have packed lunch along the trail, preferably in the flat area of Melka’s Ridge. If you have extra time, you can push for Peak 3 and take your lunch there.

. You will need to manage through tall cogon grass (some crawling) and then over rock faces (haring bato). Stationed ropes are available but be sure to check for their safety and try not to rely your entire weight on them.

. From haring bato, it’s a whirlwind trail to Peak 3 an area that’s commonly overlooked because it’s small and unassuming.

. Peak 2 is a slightly larger campsite. Limatiks start appearing from this part of the trek.

. From Peak 2, the trail is a long gradual descent to UP Los Banos.

. Limatiks are small and vicious so be sure to wear long socks/leggings/arm warmer/closed shoes. But still, even with these precautionary measures, limatiks still manage to cling and suck from the trekkers. In that case, just wait it out or use alcohol spray on them.

. It will probably be dusk when you pass by the flat rocks of the stream before getting out of the ‘wilderness area’ be extra careful since that area is slippery.

. Once you reach UPLB grounds (concrete road in College of Forestry), head towards the main road and wait for a jeepney. You may also opt to walk all the way to the gate to warm down your muscles.
. Buses pick up passengers from Olivarez Mall until about 7:00PM; you'd have to take a jeep (P8) to Los Banos Crossing to catch a bus any later than that.

Options:

. Most climbers take their breakfast in Jollibee in Sto. Tomas, but to save on food expenses, you can also bring packed breakfast and eat it in San Bartolome Barangay Hall.

. There is another trail to Melka’s Ridge, passing by a goat pen.
. Be on the lookout for clean water source along the trail in case your water runs low.

. If you have extra time and sunlight, you can take a quick side trip to the mud spring before proceeding to UPLB gate. You should find a trail sign that leads there.
. You may pass by another registration booth in UPLB side of the mountain, so that's another P20.
. Side trip idea: Los Banos/Pansol hot spring pool. Public pools have very reasonable rates. These are mostly found on the main road, along the jeepney line.

Budget: around P500 per pax from Gil Puyat/Buendia
Budget estimate for 4 people
440 Bus to Sto. Tomas
80 Trike fare
80 Barangay San Bartolome registration
600 Food share
80 UPLB registration (just in case)
64 Jeep
440 Bus to Manila
200 misc

Warm up: approaching the mountain

Rest stop at the kubo; yours truly, still hungover :p

Great from Batangas side.

Gapang gid! Crawling through cogon grass area.

Sweeping view! Approaching haring bato

Pitcher plant refreshment! (No, don't drink it!)

Peak 2, i reckon...

Stream, it's all walking distance from here...

UPLB campus

Mud spring (taken during a different climb)

Itinerary and expenses recorded on June 2011.
Credit to Larry De Jesus and Migs Creencia for some of the photos on this post.

DIY: Boracay Packages

noreply@blogger.com (IndieEscape) — Tue, 02 Aug 2011 12:31:00 +0000

More than 5 days of non-stop rain got me dreaming about summer. I miss walking barefoot on the beach, having a drink and waiting for the sun to set. I definitely miss Boracay, having been there only once, I think it's about time to go back!

Boracay packages are easy to come by when you approach any local travel agency. This tropical paradise has one of the highest tourist turnovers each day, even during off-peak months. If I may say so, I think there's a plane arriving in Boracay's Caticlan airport every hour!

AIRLINE CARRIERS FLYING TO BORACAY (via Caticlan)

SEAir
Cebu Pacific Air
Airphil Express/Philippine Airlines

*From Caticlan airport, Boracay Island is only a 6-minute boat ride away.

As a thrifty traveler, I make my decisions based on my alloted budget so most trips call for DIY itineraries. I must admit, many boracay packages are designed for deep-pocketed foreign tourists!

Here are my suggestions for those who feel like doing their own thing in Bora. Simply put together your own itinerary using the activity choices listed below.

30 THINGS TO DO IN BORACAY

Whole body massage by the beach
Banana boat/Flying fish/Parasailing/Jet ski/Water ski
Snorkeling
Reef walking/Helmet diving/Aquanaut
Sunbathing by the beach

Strolling (station 1-3)
D*Mall shopping
D'Talipapa seafood market
Sunset Paraw sailing
Check out Shangri-La Hotel

Swimming in the beach
Swimming in the pool
Souvenir shopping
ATV to the top of the island
Henna tattoo

Fruit shakes
Cliff diving
Puka beach boat trip
Beach volleyball in station 1
Dead forest

Butterfly farm
Golf at Fairways and Bluewater
Helicopter ride
Intro diving course
Foodie Trip in restaurants

Street foodie trip (Chori burger)
Custom made sand castle by locals
Bar hopping
Poi dancing
Taking pictures till your memory card is maxed out!

The weekends preceding Easter Sunday and Labor day weekend is probably the busiest weekends in Bora. Outside those weekends, I can confidently say that you'll never run out of room accommodations in Boracay. Nonetheless, you may check out this page for an extensive list of Boracay resorts/hotels.

It's been 5 years so I hope my next visit will be soon! I expect a lot of things have changed, hopefully the big hotels dialed things down because those big structures were the reason I wasn't too eager to go back then.

Sagada via Banaue-Bontoc Itinerary: 2+1 days

noreply@blogger.com (IndieEscape) — Mon, 25 Jul 2011 16:43:00 +0000

Early morning hike in Echo Valley, Sagada

Backpacking, Spelunking, Hiking | Banaue, Bontoc, Sagada City Tour Itinerary
Sagada, Mountain Province
Specs: Scenic bus route, rice terraces, Highest highway, burial cave, hanging coffins, spelunking, waterfalls, food, souvenir shopping.

How to go to Sagada, Mountain Province via Banaue

Private car:
Drive to NLEX then take the Sta. Rita Bulacan exit. Follow the highway to Cabanatuan City. Another option from NLEX is to take SCTEX via Mabalacat Interchange (formerly Clark Logistics) – exit at Tarlac Interchange and then turn left to Sta Rosa then straight to Cabanatuan. From Cabanatuan City, follow the Maharlika highway passing through Talavera – San Jose – Santa Fe – Bayombong – Solano. After Solano, take a left in Bagabag diversion where the road goes up to Mt Province passing by Lamut – Lagawe – Banaue – Bontoc. From Bontoc, take the Halsema highway till you reach Staunton Road junction. This leads to Sagada. This should take about 11 hours with only short stopovers.

Public transportation/Buses going to Banaue (fare is around P650):
Ohayami Trans – 2100H / 2200H - Corner J.Fajardo, A.H. Lacson, Sampaloc Tel +63917-5060817
GV Florida Transport - regular 2110H / deluxe 2245H daily - Earnshaw Sr cor. Loyola, Espana, Manila. Tel +632-7315358
Autobus – 1400H / 2245H daily - 1445 St. Loyola cor. F. Coyco Sts, Sampaloc, Manila Tel +632-4934111
*From Banaue, take a jeepney to Bontoc-Sagada

Public transportation/Buses going to Bontoc (fare is around P650):
Cable Tours – 1230H - E. Rodriguez St., Quezon City Tel
+63929-8194688
Kasilen Transport – 2100H – E. Rodriguez St., Quezon City Tel. +63917-8629574 or +63916-3603483
KMJ Bus Transport – Trinoma North Triangle? Tel +63928-4546568

You may also take a bus to Solano, Nueva Vizcaya (Victory Liner, Baliwag Transit, etc.) then take a jeepney to Lagawe-Banaue.

Notes:
. Sagada is a popular backpacker’s destination for its laid back and remote vibe - having no big hotels or commercial facilities. Modest accommodations are available from homestays, inns, to lodges and dorm type hostels.
. This itinerary is made to fit a whole weekend, ideally Friday evening to Monday dawn.
. There are many ways to get to Sagada from Manila. Basically it’s Manila-Solano-Lagawe-Banaue-Bontoc-Sagada, give or take some stops depending on the type of transportation you take.
. If you plan to take a bus to Bontoc or Banaue, be sure to call the bus company to reserve your seats ahead of time since they only have 1-2 trips per day.
. If your bus stops in Banaue, I suggest getting off to cover a little bit of the town. Have your breakfast at one of the restaurants offering a view of the its postcard-picturesque rice terraces.
. From Banaue, you may take a bus or jeepney to Bontoc; travel time is about 2 hours.
. Bontoc is a slightly bigger town, where locals do their business. Here you will find banks (with ATM) and small business offices.
. Before heading to the jeepney terminal, take note of the bus trips back to Manila, or better yet reserve your seats (you may skip this option if you plan to go back via Baguio).
. The jeepney terminal in Bontoc can be found between All Saints Mission elementary school and Walter Clapp Centrum. Travel time from Bontoc to Sagada is about 1 hour.
. Scout for possible accommodation upon arrival in Sagada if you haven’t made any advance reservations. In the two times I’ve been there, I only stayed in St. Joseph’s Inn. I highly recommend it! Cheap rooms don’t have hot shower but you can ‘buy’ hot water by the pail.
. Cozy restaurants are tucked in between residential houses so finding lunch should not be a problem.
. After lunch head over to Log Cabin Restaurant to book your seats for the dinner buffet. This is the only luxury highlight in Sagada, so it’s surely not to miss! If you feel that it is too expensive (above P800 per person), you may opt for another regular restaurant. I recommend Masferre Restaurant for plan B.
. Head over to Lumiang Burial Cave, a short 15 minute hike. It features stacked coffins and is the starting point for the “cave connection” spelunking tour.
. On your way to St Mary’s church, make a quick stop at the tourist info center to arrange the next day’s activity: spelunking in Sumaguing Cave.
. There are two official Sagada local guide organizations: SEGA and SAGGAS.
. You may also hire a guide to walk you around Echo Valley and to Bomod-Ok falls. Try to find other weekenders to join your group to save money on guide fees.
. Walk past St Mary’s church and on to the small hill (toward the cemetery) to find the foot trail to Echo valley. There, the famous hanging coffins can be seen up close.
. Sagada weaving is another short hike on a cemented road past St. Theodore’s hospital. It’s located in front of the lone gas station in Sagada.
. When driving to Sagada, do not expect the gas station to be open at all times. Same thing with money, since there is only one ATM machine in the town. Additionally, the two ATMs in Bontoc may not support international ATM withdrawals, so be prepared if you’re a foreigner.
. There is a 9:00PM curfew in Sagada, so make sure you are back in your room by then.
. The best time to go to Sagada is on New Year’s Eve and All Soul's Day.
. Depending on your arrangements your guide may pick you up or meet you somewhere in town for the Sumaguing Cave tour (bring a flashlight and footwear with good traction).
. A more advanced cave tour – the Sumaguing-Lumiang Cave Connection (3 hour spelunking) is recommended for those with caving experience and extra time.
. After the cave tour, have a quick breakfast then drop by the market for some pasalubongs: Sagada oranges, Sagada coffee and other local finds.
. The path to Bomod-ok falls in Banga-an is accessible by jeepney (about 20 minutes + 1 hour hike to the falls/1.5 hour hike back). Walking is also a healthy option if you have the time (about 2 hours total). You may have to hire a jeepney if you missed the regular trip going there or back.
. If you wish to swim in the cold waters of Bomod-Ok falls, be sure to bring an extra set of clothes (no changing rooms though).
. Make sure you are back in the town proper/poblacion by around 12:00-ish so as not to miss the 1300h last trip back to Bontoc or Baguio. Save your seats on the bus and grab some lunch on the go.

Options:
. On day 1, you may substitute St Mary’s Church-Cemetery- Echo Valley tour with Sumaguing cave spelunking to give you more time for Bomod-ok falls the next day.
. For a long weekend stay (3 days), you can stay a night in Banaue before heading to Sagada. Or better yet, visit Batad, a more remote town featuring steep rice terraces, very different from those in Banaue.
. To get back to Manila via Baguio, take a bus from Sagada to Baguio (schedule 6am, 7am, 8am, 10am, 1pm last trip). If you missed those trips, take a jeep to Bontoc and hop on a bus to Baguio. From Baguio, there are many buses going back to Manila - most recommended is Victory Liner - with buses leaving every 30 minutes.

FYI: How to Get to Sagada via Baguio City
Drive to Baguio City via NLEX - SCTEX via Mabalacat Interchange (formerly Clark Logistics) – exit at Tarlac Interchange. Turn left and follow the signages going to Baguio (via Gerona). This should take about 6 hours. From Baguio, Take the Baguio-La Trinidad road and then to Halsema Highway (Kabayan Road). After about 5 hours of winding mountainside roads, you will reach the Halsema-Staunton junction. Turn left to Staunton road to reach Sagada. Total travel time is about 12 hours.

Budget: around P3150 per pax
Budget estimate for 4 people:
5200 bus fares
800 jeepney fares
400 entrance fees
1200 room
600 guide fee
4000 food share
400 misc (other fees, tips, etc.)

Banaue scene

THE Banaue Rice Terraces

Rickety bus: Banaue to Bontoc

approaching Bontoc, Mountain Province

NYE mass at St. Mary's church, Sagada

Stacked coffins in Lumiang Cave, Sagada

Sagada weaving - pasalubong!

Probably the most photographed hanging coffins in Echo Valley

Cemetery

*Jeepneys or jeeps are colorful public utility vehicles – truly Filipino.
*Pasalubong - is a gift for friends and family back home.

Itinerary and expenses recorded on January 2009
Updated on July 2011

Mt. Kanlaon Itinerary: 3+1 days

noreply@blogger.com (IndieEscape) — Sat, 09 Jul 2011 12:51:00 +0000

Mt Kanla-on's Margaja valley and Makawiwili peak

Hiking, Mountain Climbing | Mt. Kanlaon Traverse Itinerary via Mananawin-Wasay Trail
Jumpoff: Sitio Mananawin, Canlaon City, Negros Oriental
Trail end: Wasay trail to Mambukal Resort, Murcia, Negros Occidental
2435 MASL (Crater Peak); MASL (Makawiwili Peak); 2300 MASL (Oriental saddle campsite)
Specs: Strenous trekking, at least 8 hours per day, mostly assault; Margaja Valley (old crater), new crater, Makawiwili peak, mountain lagoons, bird watching, Mambukal hot spring resort.
Trekking time: 1 day to base camp; 2 days descend.

Notes:
. Mt. Kanlaon is the highest mountain in the Visayas and the 3rd largest active volcano in the Philippines. It is also spelled as Kanla-on or Canlaon.
. A climbing permit from DENR is required to climb this mountain volcano (P350 per person).
. The number of climbers is limited to 10 persons plus the local guide(s).
. From Citilink terminal in Cebu, the v-hire van fare to Toledo City is P100 per person.
. The fast craft fare from Toledo City, Cebu to San Carlos, Negros Oriental is P120, plus P15 terminal fee.
. The trike/padyak (3-wheeled passenger motorcycle/ bike) fare to get to San Carlos Transport terminal is P10 per person.
. The bus from San Carlos City to Canlaon City is P55.
. The fare from Ceres South bus terminal in Bacolod City to Canlaon City is P90.
. Register and confirm your pre-approved climbing permit from the DENR office in Canlaon City. Guide fee is P500 per day (1:5 ratio), porter fee is P300 per day. The office can provide the guides and porters if you don’t have a pre-arranged one. I can recommend our guide, too (contact me for details).
. To get a permit, you need to fill out a form and have it notarized. Then, submit it to the park officer with your payment.
. Here is a copy of the form for download (coming soon).
. The habal-habal (tandem ride on a motorcycle) fare to Sitio Mananawin is P100. 4x4 jeepney or a Canter truck may also be rented for large groups.
. From the jumpoff, the trail starts on an exposed vegetable farm with a gradual sloping terrain.
. Have your lunch along the trail where water source is available (water pipes are laid on some parts of the trail); otherwise, push to ‘Patay na Ilog’ to have your lunch.
. When it rains, ‘Patay na Ilog’ (dead river) becomes ‘alive’. Be alert for the possibility of flash flood.
. As with most mountains in the Philippines, Mt. Kanlaon is a sacred mountain, so try to keep the noise down, especially upon entering the forest line.
. Once you exit the mossy forest, you will be able to see the crater and the saddle area (camp site) – it may look like a short hike away but it may take 2+ hours to get there because of the steep climb.
. A great sunset view waits at the campsite. From there, you can see the new crater (summit), Margaja/Margaha valley (old crater), San Carlos City, Cebu Island and the Makawiwili peak.
. Ask your guide for directions to the water source. For your safety, only use that water for cooking and cleaning.
. Be sure to bring cold weather clothing as the temperature drops after sundown.
. The way to the summit is rocky and steep but the view is breathtaking!
. Be careful when exploring around the crater rim because of the risk of falling into it.
. The trail to Makawiwili peak is gradually descending followed by another steep assault.
. Going down Wasay trail (longest trail in Mt. Kanlaon), you will pass by mountain lagoons: PMS camp, SAMOC lagoon and RAMS lagoon (a brief 15 min detour to this one).
. The Hardin Sang Balo campsite is still at around 2000masl high. Twisted mossy trees seemingly taken from an LOTR book surround this part of the mountain.
. The cemented road in the PNOC site is not the end of the Wasay trail. You may take your lunch here and proceed across the road to continue your journey.
. Munia bird sightings is one of the highlights of Wasay trail.
. After crossing the PNOC road, the trail will become maze-like with so many Y-branches. Be sure you get an experienced guide to avoid getting lost.
. Entrance fee to Mambukal resort is P30. There are additional entrance fees to use the swimming pool (P50), hot spring pool (P50), etc. Food and drinks are sold inside the compound.
. The bus fare from Mambukal resort to San Carlos City is P110. The jeep fare to Bacolod City is P35.

Options:
. Climbers coming from Manila may book a flight to either Cebu or Bacolod – whichever is more convenient.
. From Bacolod City, you may also take a bus bound to San Carlos City (via Don Salvador Benedicto), travel time is 3 hours. Then follow the itinerary from there.
. Other trails in Mt. Kanlaon are: Maput/Mapot in Canlaon City, Masulog trail also in Canlaon City and Guintubdan trail in La Carlota City.
. You may camp out at the exposed saddle area or move on to the forested campsite on day 1.
. If you have extra time (and energy), you may go down Margaha valley and explore the old crater. It gets partially filled with water during rainy season.
. PMS camp, Samoc lagoon, RAMS lagoon and the area around Hardin Sang Balo all turn into a swamp after heavy rains.
. There many things to do in Mambukal resort like wall climbing, boating, climbing the 7-level waterfalls, treetop adventure, zipline, etc. Overnight lodging is available if you wish to spend the night there.
. The last trip to Bacolod City from Mambukal resort is around 8:00PM. You will have to rent transportation in case you will to get back in the city late at night.
. The last fast craft trip from San Carlos City to Toledo City is 4:30PM; so, you will have to spend the second night somewhere in Mambukal, Bacolod or San Carlos.
. There’s also the option of taking a ferry to Cebu City pier or a bus straight to Cebu City from Bacolod City.

Budget: around P 1100 per pax from Canlaon City
Budget estimate for 5 people:
1750 Climbing permits
250 notary public
100 Habal habal
500 Climbing guide
150 Mambukal; resort entrance fee
250 Dipping pool (hot spring) entrance fee
2000 food share
500 misc

Additional from Cebu: P621
500 v-hire
600 fast craft to San Carlos
75 terminal fee Toledo wharf
100 tricycle
55 bus to Canlaon City
550 bus Murcia (Mambukal) to San Carlos City
600 fast craft back to Toledo
125 terminal fee San Carlos wharf
500 v-hire

Additional from Bacolod: P125
450 bus to Canlaon City
175 jeep to Bacolod City

Next stop: Canlaon City

Mossy forest

Entering the grassland, whew!

Last push to campsite - 2 hours away!

Sunset (pardon the poor shot)

View of San Carlos City, Tanon strait and Cebu Island

Summit view: saddle camp and Makawiwili peak

Peek into the center of the earth: Mt. Kanlaon crater hole

Hidden dangers lie on the crater rim so be extra careful!

Mt. Kanlaon crater mouth

PMS camp (old NPA camp)

RAMS lagoon (I also don't know what it stands for)

Itinerary and expenses recorded on June 2011.

PNR Train to Naga City starts operating tomorrow!

noreply@blogger.com (IndieEscape) — Wed, 29 Jun 2011 00:11:00 +0000

PNR city commuter train

The Philippine National Railway (PNR) is formally re-opening its Manila-Bicol line starting tomorrow, June 30, 2011. This is really great news for commuting travelers! It is also very timely for the MFPI Luzon Summit in Bagasbas, Daet!

I want to go!!!

PNR used to travel all the way to Albay until 10 years or so ago when the railways in Bicol were flooded and some rails in Quezon were reportedly stolen. That ended my dream of doing the 'Bicol Express' train ride. Since then, the train only traveled as far as Biñan, from Tutuban station.

Sleeper coaches will ply the tracks leading south - to Naga City. Travel time takes about 10 hours and fare starts at around P550 (tourist coach) up to P950 (sleeper coach). It's just as fast as the bus, so why take the train? L-E-G-R-O-O-M. No, make that lie-on-your-back-without-feeling-like-you're-sitting-on-a-dental-chair.

Ordinary bus to Bicol = Numb butt and Sticky hair

Bus fares to Naga City range from P300 (non-airconditioned aka ordinary) up to about P900 (deluxe lazy boy bus). Just do the math to see if the train is a viable option for you. As for me, I think it's definitely worth a try for the sake of experience!

PNR will soon reach Albay again :)

Cebu City Tour Itinerary: Mactan and Olango Islands

noreply@blogger.com (IndieEscape) — Mon, 27 Jun 2011 05:10:00 +0000

Watch migratory birds in Olango Island Wildlife Sanctuary

Backpacking | Cebu City Tour Itinerary – Day 2
Mactan Island, Olango Island, Cebu Province, Philippines
Hours: Whole Day Tour
Specs: Mactan Island, Lapu lapu City, Plantation Bay, Lapu-lapu monument, Olango Island Bird Sanctuary, souvenir shopping

Notes:
. This is part 2 of the Cebu City tour itinerary ideal for those who are staying in Cebu for a whole weekend.
. Have your breakfast in the hotel (use your free breakfast coupons!) or you can wait till you get to Plantation Bay Resort to have your fill. Be prepared to shell out P1000+ for the latter option.
. Travel time from Cebu City proper to Plantation Bay Resort in Mactan is about 45 minutes.
. Ask the receptionist in Plantation Bay Resort for an ocular tour – a bellboy will gladly hop on an electric car to take you for a quick spin around the 11-hectare 5-star resort hotel.
. The Hilton port area or Hilton wharf is located beside the Hilton Resort Hotel and Spa, hence the name. There’s an access road beside the compound that will take you to the dock.

Here is the the location map of Hilton pier/wharf/port:

View Larger Map

. The boat ride to Olango Island takes about 20 minutes. You can catch a peek of Shangri-La and Hilton resorts after the boat moves away from Mactan Island.
. Boat fare is about P15 per person.
. Passenger motorcycles are available outside the Santa Rosa Pier. Just walk towards the exit area to spot their parking area.
. Arrange for a round trip service because there is very limited transportation (almost none) once you get into the Wildlife Sanctuary area. It should cost about P150 per tricycle.
. Entrance fee to lango OIsland Wildlife Sanctuary is P20 for Philippine residents.
. A friendly guide will accompany you to the viewdeck, some 10 minutes walk into the mangrove area. You may have to remove your shoes if the tide is high, so make sure you wear shorts or pants that can easily be folded up to your knees.
. Peak bird watching season is during November to March. Migratory birds from countries like China, Japan and Australia stop in this RAMSAR sanctuary.
. From Hilton Port, the Mactan Shrine is only about a kilometer away. You can simply walk your way there or take a public transportation.
. There is no entrance fee in Mactan Shrine.
. Have your lunch at one of the SuTuKil (Sugba-Tuwa-Kilaw or Grill-Soup/Stew-Raw) restaurants around Mactan Shrine for your fix of fresh seafood.
. Popular souvenir items are seashell crafts, ref magnets and miniature guitars.
. From Mactan Shrine, you can walk to Shangri-La Resort Hotel and Spa for an ocular tour (hi, bye tour) of another 5-star resort hotel.

Get your names in the wait list early.

. Take a taxi to get to the Abuno guitar factories in Barangay Pajac. Popular guitar makers like Alegre and New Susing’s guitar make export quality guitars. You can even order custom-made guitars to suit your hand and arm measurements.
. From the guitar district, take a cab to Crown Regency Hotel in Osmena Boulevard.
. Crown Regency Hotel offers sky adventure activities like the Sky Walk Extreme, Edge Coaster Ride, wall climbing and zipline. They also have other attractions to keep the less adventurous busy as well.
. After sundown, head over to Casa Verde for a hearty steak meal that’s right on the budget.

Options:
. You can choose to have some drinks while in Plantation Bay. Coffee, fruit juices or shakes should set you back about P500 per order.
. The Plantation Bay ocular tour should only take a maximum of 15 minutes, so you may want to ask your cab to wait for you if you are not planning to stick around for drinks.
. If the boat back to Hilton pier has left, you may also take the boat to Portofino (the wharf is located beside Portofino Beach Resort). It is also about 10 minutes from Mactan Shrine by car. Fare is P10.
. To maximize your time, you can go around the Mactan Shrine (Lapu-lapu and Magellan monuments) and take pictures while your SuTuKil lunch is being prepared.
. Check out this page for Sky Experience Adventure Rates at Crown Regency Hotel.
. It is best to add this itinerary to you beach vacation in places like Bantayan, Malapascua, Kawasan, Moalboal, Camotes, etc.

Budget: around P1855 per pax
Budget estimate for 4 people:
---- Hotel accommodation
700 Taxi fare
120 boat fares
200 location entrance fees/donations/tips
3000 food for lunch and dinner (more if you plan to have drinks in the hotels)
3000 Sky Ride at Crown Regency (P750 each includes: entrance + 2 rides + souvenir tee)
400 misc (other fees, tips, etc.)

Bikers frequent Olango Island for its countryside charm.

Plantation Bay's 11-hectare premier resort

Would love to review this hotel if I can afford it!

Olango Island Wildlife Sanctuary fee schedule

The viewdeck is about 10 minutes away from this structure.

The tide is coming in...

Sky Experience Adventure in Crown Regency Hotel

Casa Verde means Green House!

Itinerary and expenses recorded on June 2011.

Fête de la Musique MANILA 2011 - Fort Strip, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig

noreply@blogger.com (IndieEscape) — Sat, 25 Jun 2011 00:43:00 +0000

An annual music retreat

FÊTE DE LA MUSIQUE 2011 - MANILA, PHILIPPINES
June 25, 2011
with special participation of Rock Band Merzhin
4pm onwards . FREE
Bonifacio Global City
Main stage: Arts in the City (26th., corner 7th avenue)
and indoor pocket venues at the Fort Strip

See band lineup below.

The Fête de la Musique returns to Manila on June 25, 2011 with the French Rock Band Merzhin. This band, originally from Brittany, is on tour in South East Asia to promote its latest album, “Plus loin vers l’Ouest” (Farther to the West). They will be performing a Celtic Rock Concert at Arts in the City (Bonifacio Global City). The Fête de la Musique will also be the opportunity to discover Filipino music bands who will share the stage with Merzhin. Don’t miss this open air musical event!

The Embassy of France and The Alliance Française de Manille in partnership with ALTERNATIVE ASSETS and B-SIDE present:

FETE DE LA MUSIQUE 2011
100+ Bands.14 Genres.8 Stages.1 Day.
This year’s Fete aims to showcase the rich tapestry of the Philippine music scene across a variety of genres and generations, in the spirit of collaboration, not only among artists but also across music production groups.
The Main Stage at the Fort Plaza (in front of Pier 1) will exhibit the best acts across seven (7) genres while seven (7) other stages around the Fort Strip, all within walking distance from each other, each hosted by different prods, will the showcase the rest.

MAINSTAGE
at Arts in the City starting at4 pm onwards (Multi-Genre)
Merzhin (8pm, Main stage)
This band, originally from Brittany, is on tour in South East Asia to promote its latest album, “Plus loin vers l’Ouest” (Farther to the West). They will be performing Celtic Rock music at The Fort Strip.
At the Main Stage, each genre will have two (2) back-to-back acts: one to represent the more seasoned artists who have served as pioneers and trailblazers; the other to represent the relatively newer ensembles, with their innovative takes on traditional forms. Watch out for some surprise collabs and cross-act jams between the two!
Classical Manila Symphony Orchestra x Manila String Machine Jazz Henry Katindig x Radioactive Sago Project Swing/Big Band The Executives x Skarlet & the AMP World Humanfolk x Kadangyan Reggae Tropical Depression x Milagros Dancehall Collective Funk Spy x Cosmic Love Afro-Brazilian Finale Escola de Samba de Manila x Nyko Maca & Gafieira x Planet Zips x FutKal Sundown Parade Brigada x PZ x Manila Fixed Gear x Pinas Lowridaz x Fete de la Fold x Parañaque Fil-Chi Fire Volunteers Association

INDOOR STAGES

ELECTRONICA @ Katsu by Nomad Productions
Liquid A//Red - I // Soulflower // Mulan // Minister Zero // Diego Mapa // Erwin Edralin // Playground // Manila Paris Confidential // Marts Balesca // FEEN // Helen // Champagne Bucket // Silverfilter // MORSE

ROCK STAGE @ Craft Pub & Grill by Revolver & Red Ninja
Black Tooth Grin //Mr. Bones & The Boneyard Circus // Bonsai // Curbside // Franco // Ginseng Luzon // Good Morning High Fives // Hatankaru // Head // Hijo // Hilera // Ink Driven // Intolerant // Maple Syrup // Nobody’s Hippies // Nyctinasty // Pinoy Stories // Salamin // Return to Eden // Sino Sikat? // Turbo Goth

JAZZ STAGE @ Scarlet Wine Lounge
by KoolKat Productions Manila & Rogue Productions
Boy Katindig // Aquarela // Johnny Alegre Affinity // Albert de Pano // Extrapolation // B Concept // Butch Roxas and Neris Gonzalez

BLUES / SOUL / SKA STAGE @ Draft Gastropub
by Manila Soul & MamboRat Productions
Blue Rats // Blue Jean Junkies // Jeepney Joyride // Hard Hat Area // Alakpa // Flippin’ Soul Stopmers // The Heavy Heavies // Cooky Chua and Bluesviminda // Daniel Crisologo // Jun Lopito // Bleu Rascals // Gin Rum and Truth // Steady Moving Beat // Half Baked // Finger Trap // Young Instigators // Kat Aggarado, Wally Gonzales & Friends // Jack versus the Crab

INDIE / PUNK STAGE @ Keg by Meiday
Halik ni Gringo // Ang Bandang Shirley // Strangeness // The Dorques // Kate Torralba //
The Discoball // Outerhope // Bee Eyes // Pedicab // Ciudad // Arigato Hato // Misyonaryo // Giangangbang // Kikimachine // The Diegos

HIP-HOP / SOUL / R&B STAGE @ Amber by Hi:Fan & Red Alert Productions
People's Future // Ampon // Jonan Aguilar // Artstrong // Mike’s Apartment //
Corporate Lo-Fi // Quest // Sinag // Legit Status // The Renaissance Project //
Gene Roca // Ninks // Sin City // Hi-Cee & Dice // Chelo // Brenan //
5th Wave Theory // LDP // Ron Thug // Tondo Tribe //
Beatbox Philippines // Julianne

Text and image taken from http://www.alliance.ph/events_details.php?Fte_de_la_musique=140

INCUBUS: IF NOT NOW, WHEN? - LIVE IN MANILA 2011

noreply@blogger.com (IndieEscape) — Tue, 21 Jun 2011 00:36:00 +0000

INCUBUS - If not now, When? World Tour 2011
Live in Manila
July 28, 2011 - Thursday - 8:00 PM
Araneta Coliseum, Cubao, Quezon City MANILA, Philippines

After 5 years of hibernating (Their last album, Light Grenades, was released 2006), Incubus is now back on tour for their new album "If not now, when?" which will be officially released on July 12. I am a fan of Incubus since their experimental Fungus Amongus and S.C.I.E.N.C.E.days. Their melodies and musical catharsis hit my senses deeply. I am glad that Incubus has decided to visit the Philippines for the 3rd time.

Ticket prices:
PATRON STANDING (PT101): P6340
PATRON STANDING (PT103): P5810
PATRON SEATED (Reserved Seating): P6865
LOWER BOX (LB200 & LB201) (Reserved Seating): P6865
LOWER BOX (LB202 - 215) (Reserved Seating): P4755
UPPER BOX A (Reserved Seating): P3170
UPPER BOX B: P1585
GENERAL ADMISSION: P795

Map of Araneta Center Cubao (Araneta Coliseum):

View Larger Map

For ticket reservations and inquiries, click here (Ticketnet). Ticketnet hotline: +632 911-5555.

Photos taken from enjoyincubus.com's vault

Callao Caves Penablanca, Iguig Calvary Hills, Cagayan North Itinerary: 1+1 day

noreply@blogger.com (IndieEscape) — Sun, 19 Jun 2011 07:40:00 +0000

Explore huge chambers of limestone and rock

Backpacking, Spelunking | Iguig Calvary Hills + Peñablanca Callao Caves + Pinacanuan River Itinerary
Iguig – Peñablanca – Tuguegarao, Cagayan (North) Province
Hours from Manila: around 11 hours
Specs: Spelunking, river tour, circadian flight of bats, colonial church, Cagayan River, life-size Stations of the Cross, cathedral inside a cave, Mororan.

How to go to Tuguegarao, Cagayan (North)

Private car:
From Manila, drive to Cabanatuan City:
• Option 1 – Drive to NLEX then take the SCTEX via Clark Logistics Interchange exit. From SCTEX highway, take the Amucao, Tarlac exit. Turn right passing through La Paz – Sta. Rosa, then turn left to Cabanatuan City.
• Option 2 – Drive to NLEX then take the Sta. Rita exit. Follow the highway passing through the cities of Plaridel – Baliuag - San Idelfonso - San Miguel - Gapan – Sta. Rosa all the way to Cabanatuan.

From Cabanatuan City, follow the Maharlika highway passing through Talavera – San Jose – Santa Fe – Bayombong – Santiago – Echague – Cauayan till you reach the City of Tuguegarao.

Public transportation/Buses to Tuguegarao City:
About a dozen bus companies ply the Manila-Tuguegarao route. Here are some of the good ones:
GV Florida Bus – Earnshaw St., Sampaloc Manila (tel. +632-7433809); E. Rodriguez cor EDSA Cubao (tel. +632-9125354); Tuguegarao City (tel. +6378-8464259)
Victory Liner – Customer Service tel. +632-3611506, 361-1510, 3642926; Caloocan near LRT station (tel. +632-3304490); Cubao EDSA (tel. +632-7274534); Pasay EDSA (tel. +632-8335019, 8335020); Sampaloc Manila (tel. +632-7411436)
Dalin Liner – F. Cayco St., Sampaloc Manila (tel. +632-7858566)
Baliwag Transit Inc. – Rizal Ave. cor. 2nd Ave., Caloocan (tel. +632-3640860, +632-3634478, +632-3634431, +632-3640778, +632-3657886)
Dagupan Bus Lines – New York St., Cubao (tel. +632-7272330, +632-9296123, +6329285639, +632-7272330, +632-7272287)
Ballesteros Bus Line
Northstar Transport
Lallo Bus Line
Rivera Transit

By air:
Cebu Pacific and Air Philippines fly Manila-Tuguegarao-Manila daily:
Cebu Pac MNL-TUG 1125, 1415 (wed, sat) and 1230 (except wed and sat); TUG-MNL 1255, 1545 (wed, sat) and 1405 (except wed and sat)
Air Phils MNL-TUG 0840 and 1400; TUG-MNL 1000 and 1520

Notes:

Some useful information

. This itinerary is really made for Callao Caves with an additional side trip to Calvary Hills. It is best to integrate this stop to an extended Ilocandia tour itinerary (Ilocos Norte, Vigan, Bangui, Pagudpud, Palaui).
. Driving your own car is recommended so you don’t have to negotiate jeep/van rentals. Parking is available in Callao Caves Resort.
. Make GV Florida bus lines your first priority when choosing transportation. They have two sleeper buses (36-person capacity, bunk beds, TV, comfort room) that leave the station every 2115 and 2215 nightly. Travel time is about 10 hours for about P1015.
. Adjust the itinerary accordingly if you wish to fly to Tuguegarao.
. Have your breakfast in Tuguegarao City. Be sure to try the local specialties: Tuguegarao longganisa (sausage), pancit Batil-Patung and pancit Cabagan served with carabao meat. Order extra food to go if you did not bring any packed lunch.
. Jeep and van rental cost can vary. Try asking around the city bus transport terminal for referrals. Show the driver your itinerary for the day.
. Calvary Hills features life-size statues depicting the Stations of the Cross. Be prepared to hike the hills by wearing comfy shoes and sun/rain protection.
. The mightly Cagayan River can be seen in the Hills of Iguig.
. The San Antonio de Galicia church of Iguig is famous for its brick stone walls and flying buttresses built in the 17th century. Behind it is a stair access to Cagayan River.
. A two-way boat ride to Callao Caves Tourist Zone costs about P300, good for up to 15 persons.

Did you count your steps?

. Local tourist guides in Callao Caves speak fluent English. Even so, try to ask them to speak in their native tongue – Itawis – to hear what others say is the ‘language of the birds’.
. The entrance fee to the Cave is P20. The guides don’t really ask for a fixed fee, so it’s up to you to give a generous tip.
. To reach the cave entrance, one needs to climb about 200 steps from the boat dock.
. Walk-in visitors are allowed access to the main chambers, including the famous cave cathedral.
. Don’t forget to bring a camera flash, tripod, headlamps (or flashlights) and some snacks.
. Even though the cave is ‘dead’, the floors are still slippery so make sure you are wearing shoes with good traction.
. Remember that the cave is a natural wonder so please don’t add more names to its already vandalized walls.
. Callao Caves Resort is still operational but badly needs renovation.
. The circadian flight of bats at dusk is a spectacle worth waiting for. It only lasts about 3 minutes.
. The best time to visit Tuguegarao is August, in time for the town’s Pav-vulurun festival. It is only during that festival that their streets become alive at night time. Summer is also a great time since August is one of the rainy months.

Options:
. Airconditioned public buses take around 11 hours to reach Tuguegarao City. The fare is around P600.
. You can also reach the Callao Caves Tourist Zone via Balzain Highway going to Quibal. Follow the road all the way to Peñablanca. This takes you directly to the registration area – no need for a boat ride.
. To explore inner (advanced spelunking) chambers other caves in the area like Sierra cave, Jackpot Cave, San Carlos Cave and the Odessa-Tumbali Cave System, you will need to secure a permit from the local DENR office.

Serene turquoise waters

. You can choose to have your lunch and free time earlier and go on the Pinacanuan river tour at a later time to witness the flight of bats right from their cave at dusk.
. If you wish to leave early, you can skip the bat experience altogether. This is recommended if you plan to visit more attractions up North of Cagayan Province such as San Vicente and Palaui Island.
. The wider portion of Pinacanuan River is great for white water rafting. Operated tours are available which offer a package complete with equipment rental.
. You may choose to spend the night in Callao Caves Resort or in the town proper of Tuguegarao City if you are too tired to travel that same day.
. Other churches worth visiting in Tuguegarao City are: Basilica Minore De Nuestra Senora de Piat/Our Lady of Piat, St. Hyacinth Church, St. Philomene Church (Alcala), Sts. Peter and Paul Metropolitan Cathedral.
. If you have more time in the City, you may also visit the Panaddaman Museum, Cagayan Provincial Museum and Historical Research Center and the National Museum located at the Cagayan Capitol Compound.
. If you drive further about 2.5 kilometers from Tuguegarao City towards Solana, you will find the 2nd longest bridge in the country: The Buntun Bridge.

Budget: around P2305 per pax
Budget estimate for 6 people:
3750 bus to Tuguegarao
3750 back to Manila
2000 jeep rental
300 boat/banca ride
120 entrance fee
300 tips
3000 food share
600 misc

Calvary Hills (Photo from dotregion2.com.ph)

Old, but still functional resort

River view deck in Callao Caves Resort

Duplex rooms can accommodate up to 8 people

Pinacanuan Mororan River tour

Less than 5-minutes to the other side

My obligatory signage portrait

Just a sample of Peñablanca's extensive cave system

Natural light enters through the crevice

The Cathedral: This looks better in magazines and postcards.

Itinerary and expenses recorded on June 2011.

KYLIE MINOGUE LIVE IN MANILA 2011

noreply@blogger.com (IndieEscape) — Thu, 09 Jun 2011 00:05:00 +0000

Kylie Minogue - Aphrodite Tour 2011
Live in Manila
July 5, 2011 - Tuesday - 8:00 PM
Araneta Coliseum, Cubao, Quezon City MANILA, Philippines

"Experience the true icon and witness how Araneta Coliseum turns into a Greece inspired musical venue!"

Ticket prices:
VIP (101 and 103) (Reserved Seating): P15840
PATRON REG (Reserved Seating): P12675
LOWER BOX CENTER (Reserved Seating): P8450
LOWER BOX SIDES (Reserved Seating): P6340
UPPER BOX A (Reserved Seating): P3700
UPPER BOX B: P2640
GENERAL ADMISSION: P845

Map of Araneta Center Cubao (Araneta Coliseum):

View Larger Map

For ticket reservations and inquiries, click here (Ticketnet). Ticketnet hotline: +632 911-5555.

Photo and some text taken from Kylie Minogue Philippines FB fan page.

Review: Crown Regency Hotel & Towers - Cebu

noreply@blogger.com (IndieEscape) — Mon, 06 Jun 2011 11:11:00 +0000

Hotel Review | Crown Regency Hotel & Towers
Osmeña Boulevard, Cebu City, Philippines

Sky high in Crown Regency Hotel

Currently the tallest building outside Metro Manila, the Fuente Tower 1 of Crown Regency Hotel is an eye catching landmark easily spotted even after sundown thanks to its LED lit exterior.

When you think you've seen all of Cebu City, it's time to go beyond your eye level.

A hotel and an adventure entertainment center rolled into one, Crown Regency Hotel is one of the most convenient hotels in Cebu. Thanks to a friend who double booked by mistake, we got to stay here for one night.

LOCATION

The hotel-towers are located along busy Osmena Boulevard in downtown Cebu City. A shopping mall, restaurants, hospitals, banks, fastfood and other business establishments are nothing but a short walk away. It's important not to mistake this hotel with the two other Crown Regency chains in the city, namely Crown Regency Residences (in Guadalupe) and Crown Regency Suites (in Mactan).

Right smack in the city

Because it is situated along a major thoroughfare, you can expect to have access to commuter jeeps and taxis 24/7. You can start your Cebu City tour itinerary straight out of this hotel by taking a jeep or cab to Casa Gorordo Museum.

In my opinion, the best advantage of this hotel location-wise is its proximity to the Sinulog festival parade. Cebu City becomes a major tourist stop every third Sunday of January owing to the Grand Sinulog festival. Osmena Boulevard can get really crowded since it is part of the parade route. It would be very convenient to watch the parade in the comfort of your room or the hotel view deck, especially if you have kids.

Here is a map of Crown Regency Hotel in Downtown Cebu:

View Larger Map

THE ROOM

We were sky high in a 31st floor deluxe room overlooking Osmena Boulevard all the way to the port area. It was fit for double occupancy with just enough room to move around and carry out one's daily business. I personally liked the bed and the wooden finish of the floor but those were not too friendly for my child since the bed was too high for him to crawl up and down from and the floor caused the chairs to slide easily. I suppose a rug or some slip-proof adhesives could fix the latter.

All the interiors look new and the sheets smelled crisp. Everything was working: the lights, phone, hairdryer, airconditioning, ref, the electric water heater. I was a bit disappointed though to find out that local phone calls are metered because I would always assume that local calls are free since they're local anyway.

The bathroom was clean and it had an ample supply of clean towels and toiletries. My kid and I enjoyed the bathtub which thankfully had a rubber mat.

Room access was easy as all the elevators stop on our floor. I suggest trying the scenic elevator so you can view the pool and the adjacent tower 2 of the hotel.

SERVICE AND FOOD

Are you up for a hearty start?

The warmth of the Filipino hospitality is excellently delivered by the hotel staff who are always ready to give service with a smile. Even though the lobby was so busy with guests (the hotel was fully booked with guests from a surgical convention), the receptionist never showed an ounce of stress.

The room came with a buffet breakfast for two. I love breakfast so I am always excited about that part of a hotel stay. The buffet is set up at Glo cafe and lounge on the second floor. They serve a good variety of Filipino and Continental breakfast choices like Adobo, fried rice, your style of eggs, porridge, corned beef, bam-i (pancit), bangus, hotdog, longganisa, some breads including freshly made pancake and french toast at your request.

Coffee and juice are bottomless, too. I graciously attacked my plate with a pinky out while watching the morning joggers at Osmena Boulevard. My only comment is that I wish they used real fruit juice or at least a concentrated syrup instead of instant powdered ones because I cannot stand them.

ENTERTAINMENT

Maybe next time, eh?

In the two times I've been to Crown Regency Hotel, I have yet to try any of their adventure package. The Skywalk and the Edge Coaster are really what I'm after, but time and budget constraints have always prevented me from experiencing them.

They have a wide range of activities to keep you and even the kids busy. It's good to know that you can get a discounted rate at these adventure entertainment facilities if you're a checked-in guest.

Overall, this hotel is definitely a place to visit even just as a walk-in guest for they offer so much for adventure seekers. If you have the budget, this should be one of your top choices for accommodation.

*This is not a sponsored review.

MILEY CYRUS LIVE IN MANILA 2011

noreply@blogger.com (IndieEscape) — Tue, 31 May 2011 02:16:00 +0000

MILEY CYRUS: GYPSY HEARTS/CORAZON GITANO TOUR 2011
June 17, 2011 - Friday - 8:00PM
SM MOA Concert Grounds (SM Mall of Asia Complex), Pasay City, Philippines

Featuring performances by Sam Concepcion and Elmo Magalona (?).

Ticket prices:

VIP	PhP 7,640.00	Reserved Seating
Gold A	PhP 4,670.00	Reserved Seating
Gold B	PhP 4,670.00	Free Seating (First Come, First Serve)
Silver	PhP 3,500.00	Standing
Bronze	PhP 1,844.00	Standing
General Admission	PhP 650.00	Standing

How to get to SM MOA Concert grounds in Pasay City:

View Larger Map

For ticket reservations and inquiries, click here (Ticketworld). Ticketworld hotline: +632 891-9999.
You may also contact Futuretainment +632 577-3265 / +632 586-7275 or text SMART 0947-39MILEY (64539).

Info taken from Ticketworld.com.ph

Myth Of The Human Body Exhibition EXTENDED - Fort Bonifacio, Metro Manila

noreply@blogger.com (IndieEscape) — Tue, 31 May 2011 01:50:00 +0000

Myth Of The Human Body Exhibit
October 15, 2010 until ~~April 17, 2011~~ Dec 4, 2011
Neobabylon Building, 9 Bayani Road, AFPOVAI (Fort Bonifacio), Taguig City Metro Manila
Open Daily: 10:30AM - 8:30PM

See older post for directions and ticket prices CLICK HERE>>

Photo from http://www.ticketworld.com.ph

Baler City Tour Itinerary: 2 days

noreply@blogger.com (IndieEscape) — Tue, 10 May 2011 12:14:00 +0000

Baler: where it all began

Backpacking, Beach, Surfing | Baler City Tour Itinerary
Baler, Aurora Province
Hours from Manila: around 6 hours
Specs: Pacific coast beach, islet hopping, surfing, waterfalls, oldest Balete tree, historical landmarks, shopping, sightseeing.

How to go to Baler

Private car:
There are 2 ways to get to Baler by land. From Cabanatuan City in Nueva Ecija, you can take the Baler-Bongabon road or the Canili-Pantabangan road.

Almost there

First, how to go to Cabanatuan City from Manila:
• Option 1 – Drive to NLEX then take the SCTEX via Clark Logistics Interchange exit. From SCTEX highway, take the Amucao, Tarlac exit. Turn right passing through La Paz – Sta. Rosa, then turn left to Cabanatuan City.
• Option 2 – Drive to NLEX then take the Sta. Rita exit. Drive on the main road passing through the Bulacan cities of Plaridel – Baliuag - San Idelfonso - San Miguel, then Gapan – Sta. Rosa – Cabanatuan Cities in Nueva Ecija.

Next, Cabanatuan City to Baler:
As of this writing, the Baler-Bongabon road is only passable by 4x4 vehicles. One has to manage 2-3 hours through the zigzag mountain roads of Sierra Madre. From Cabanatuan City, take the Maharlika Highway and turn right on Aurora road, pass through Palayan City – Bongabon – then turn right to Sierra Madre forest. You will emerge in San Luis then just drive straight to Baler.

The recommended route is the Canili-Pantabangan road. From Cabanatuan City, take the Maharlika Highway to Talavera – Rizal – Pantabangan – Alfonso Castaneda (part of Nueva Vizcaya) and then to Canili, Maria Aurora. From Maria Aurora, just drive straight to Baler. This road will pass by the scenic dams of Pantabangan and Canili.

Public transportation/Buses to Baler, Aurora:
• Option 1 – Genesis Bus direct to Baler. Just go to their terminal in Cubao (tel. 4211413) or Pasay (tel. 8533115). Bus leaves every hour from 4:30am till 3:00pm. Travel time is about 7 hours. Fare is around P400.
• Option 2 – Ride a bus to Cabanatuan then take another bus bound for Baler. Airconditioned buses traveling to Cabanatuan are Baliwag transit, Genesis, Five Star, ES. You may also take other buses bound for Northern Luzon provinces like Aparri and Cagayan (North) which will pass by Cabanatuan. From Cabanatuan central transport terminal, take a Baler-bound bus (D’Liner, Genesis) or van. Buses going to Casiguran, Aurora may also pass by Baler. Travel time is about 8 hours. Fare is around P200.

Notes:

View from Ermita Hill

. This itinerary is best for first time Baler visitors staying overnight, most likely on a weekend.
The best time to visit is during November to May (November to February for surfers). Or as long as there is no weather threat.
. Contrary to common knowledge, Baler is not a part of Quezon Province any longer - and has not been since the 50's.
. It’s important to be at the bus station early to save yourself a seat.
. If you’re driving your own car, make sure you fill your tank full by the time you reach Cabanatuan Area because gas prices go up as you drive farther.
. Make sure you bring enough cash as well, because there is only one ATM in Baler.
. Try to drop by the tourist information center in Baler to get a city map for free. This will be handy when you do the town tour next day.
. For lunch, you can try MJO restaurant or the carinderias (hole-in-the-wall-eateries) around Baler bus station, particularly in the public market side.
. It’s a good idea to sign up for surfing lessons upon checking in your room, to save your slot.
. There is no entrance fee to Balete Park to see Asia’s oldest Balete (Banyan) tree.
. A tricycle day tour should cost about P500 up while a jeepney should be around P2000 – just an estimate since it still depends on how many places you plan to visit.
. Make sure you don sun protection during islet hopping.
. A tricycle may be iffy going up to the Pagasa weather radar.
. Dicasalarin beach is privately owned by Senator Angara. You can access the beach via pump boat arranged through Bahia de Baler resort.
. If you’re lucky, you can catch some fishers selling their catch at Baler fish port.

Sabang beach scene

. You can take your merienda (late afternoon snack) to Ermita Hill Park. It offers a stunning view of Baler bay.
. If you feel like going out at night, check out Bay’s Inn restaurant or Bahia de Baler bar and grill.
. Make sure you wake up early the next day to see the sun rise from the Pacific.
. Surfing lessons start at P300 per hour and surfboard rental starts at P150 per hour.
. The Baler town tour can be done on foot. There are no entrance fees to any of the mentioned spots.
. Before leaving for Manila, drop by the pasalubong center just next to the bus station for native goods. Best buys are: walis tambo and woven products (hats, fans, bags).

Options:
. Driving your own car can be more costly if you consider the gas expenses. Try to balance it out by getting more people to come. After all, it’s much easier to go around Baler using your own vehicle.
. If you arrived in Baler earlier than expected, you may do a side trip to Ditumabo Falls aka Mother Falls in San Luis.
. You may also choose to have lunch in one of the home cooked food shops in Sabang but this may take more time from your itinerary.
. Hotels accommodations and homestay options are listed in Aurora Province’s official tourism website here.
. If you wish to extend your stay, I suggest you explore the beaches up north – Dipacuilao and Dinadiawan.
. If you took a private car, make sure you make a stop over at Cakeland (café, cake and pastry shop) in Nueva Ecija for pasalubongs!

Budget: around P2950 per pax
Budget estimate for 4 people:
1600 bus to Baler
1600 back to Manila
2000 jeep rental
1000 cheap overnight rooms (2x500)
3200 surfing lessons and board rental
2000 food share
400 misc

*tricycle is a 3-wheeled passenger motorcycle

Ermita Hill Park

Baler Museum in Quezon Park

Quezon Memorial Park: Birthplace of the President

McArthur's Cadillac

Dima-dimalangat Islet

Lukso-lukso islets

Aniao islets

Stoked at sundown

Itinerary and expenses recorded on May 2011.

Review: The Cliff Royale Subic Resort, Olongapo

noreply@blogger.com (IndieEscape) — Fri, 15 Apr 2011 09:47:00 +0000

A relaxing beach escape in the heart of Subic bay

Resort Review | The Cliff Royale Subic Resort
Km 133 National Road, Bo. Barretto, Olongapo City

Out of the many beach resorts in Subic-Olongapo area, The Cliff Royale stands out - literally and figuratively.

True to its name, The Cliff Resort is situated atop a cliff in Barangay Barretto, Olongapo. Here, one can enjoy the sea in two ways: from a vantage point in the main resort area or up close by brisk walk down a winding path.

Unlike most beach resorts in this part of Subic Bay area, The Cliff provides a peaceful getaway considering it's only a stone's throw away from the infamous red light district. That said, its towering location gives it a one of a kind exclusivity that makes one feel like it's in another dimension.

HOW TO GET TO THE CLIFF RESORT

The Cliff Resort is easy to spot along the National Highway. There are a number of ways to get there from Olongapo City:

View Larger Map

Private car: Drive towards the direction of Zambales. You may pass through Subic Bay Freeport Zone and exit at the Kalaklan bridge. Once you pass by Ocean View resort and the night clubs, be on the lookout the the entrance to The Cliff Beach Resort.

Commute:
Option A. Take a bus going to Olongapo City and ride a jeep* going to Subic Town proper (this is outside SBMA). Tell the driver to drop you off at The Cliff in Barangay Barretto.

Option B. Take a bus headed to Zambales towns (Iba, San Antonio, Sta Cruz, etc.). Ask the driver to drop you off at The Cliff in Barangay Barretto.

There's also the option of taking a tricycle* from Olongapo City. If you are not familiar with the area, better rent a car with chauffeur to avoid any hassle. You may contact me for car rental arrangements.

RESORT AND BEACH GROUNDS

The resort entrance is unassuming. Upon entering the premises, you will find yourself on a parking lot with no hint of the resort's structures. To reach the main area, one has to either climb up a few steps or walk a slightly steep inclined path.

There are 3 building complexes dedicated to accommodate guests. Then there's a round dining/activity hall and 2 big pavillions for holding large events such as a wedding. There are also at least 3 garden setting areas where one can also hold small functions and gatherings.

A swimming pool that overlooks Subic bay is the centerpiece of this 1-hectare land. One will feel closer to nature with all the flowers and trees in the surroundings. The owner's love for gardening shows in the exquisite selection of plants, particularly the ones around the green and peach buildings.

Access to the beach is through a cemented winding path, not more than a 5 minute walk down the mountain peninsula. The beach area is secluded from other beach resorts as it is bounded by rock formations. Even so, locals arriving in their own boats are free to use it since it's still government property.

There are trash and other debris on the beach area, which may have been carried there by the sea or left by other beach goers. Other than that, the gray sand and the calm waters still look inviting on a hot summer day.

Catch of the day

FOOD

Food should not be a problem because there are no restrictions in bringing your own food in the resort. There is a personal refrigerator in every room to keep some of your homemade food fresh. I noticed a couple of grilling stations but I'm not sure if they can be utilized by the guests.

In any case, you may purchase fresh sea bounty from the peddlers in the beach and have them cooked by the resort staff for a fee. Take my word when I say that they can cook delicious food, even for big groups! Cold refreshments are sold in the green building lobby, just ask one of the friendly staff for a price list.

Master bedroom with loft

Daydreaming at the loft

ACCOMMODATION

In the few times our family went here, we have tried 3 of their rooms, namely: the basement dorm, the master bedroom with loft and the 2nd floor dorm cottage.

For a couple or a small family, I recommend getting the master bedroom with loft. It features a 360-degree panoramic window in its attic, where guests can view Subic bay and the surrounding Olongapo towns. The dorm type rooms are great for big families or groups. You can always request for an additional mattress to squeeze everybody in one room.

All rooms are air-conditioned which is great for warm summer nights. I prefer to open the wide windows, which all the rooms have, for a natural breeze and lighting during the daytime.

Native materials and accents fill the rooms which give it a rustic feel. It's like visiting your grandma's ancestral home. The room furnishings were meticulously handpicked by the owner from her trips around the Philippines.

Everything is clean and well-kept, from the hardwoord floors to the bed sheets. The bathroom is very clean and stocked with shampoo and soap. I like the al-fresco open-window (with curtain) shower because it adds to the provincial feel of taking a bath, while still enjoying a hot and cold shower.

CUSTOMER SERVICE

Our family personally knows one of the owners. She always gets out of her way to give a simple tour of the place and make each guest feel at home. All the staff are courteous and quick to respond to the needs of the guests. The last time we were there, one of our companions broke a glass in the bathroom. Housekeeping immediately came to clean the place up.Even the security guard was nice enough to open the gate for us when we arrived late from bar hopping in SBMA.

The Cliff Royale is a perfect getaway any season of the year. It's laid back rustic atmosphere is what one wants after experiencing the loud crowds of other beach resorts this side of Olongapo.

Here are some more pictures:

An almost exclusive beach cove

At the panoramic room with one of the owners

Spacious and airy dorm type room (4 beds)

Al fresco bathroom

Native Philippine accents

*Tricycle - 3-wheeled passenger motorcycle.
*Jeep - Passenger vehicle. Don't worry, you won't miss it.

For further information and room rates, visit The Cliff Royale Subic Beach Resort's official site at http://www.thecliffroyale.com

Myth Of The Human Body Exhibition - Fort Bonifacio, Metro Manila

noreply@blogger.com (IndieEscape) — Sat, 09 Apr 2011 18:31:00 +0000

Myth Of The Human Body Exhibit
October 15, 2010 until ~~April 17, 2011~~ Dec 4, 2011
Neobabylon Building, 9 Bayani Road, AFPOVAI (Fort Bonifacio), Taguig City Metro Manila
Open Daily: 10:30AM - 8:30PM

This is your last chance to see a unique exhibit of the human body. Examine the impressive dead bodies that underwent a groundbreaking technology of preservation called "PLASTINATION". See actual dissected human body parts up close and expand your knowledge about the human anatomy.

I've seen a similar exhibition in Las Vegas years before - The Bodies Exhibit. This is truly a must see especially for doctors and those in the science field. The Myth Of The Human Body Exhibition is run by a Korean company and is ongoing until ~~April 17, 2011~~ Dec 4, 2011.

How To Get To Myth Of The Human Body Exhibit:

EDSA MRT: Go to Guadalupe Station then take a jeep going AFP/Bayani Road, AFPOVAI. Get down at Neobabylon Building.

LRT: Go to EDSA Pasay/Rotonda Station. Take a jeep going to FTI Kaliwa. Get down at Gate 3 (Fort Bonifacio). Take a jeep going Bayani Road AFPOVAI. Get Down at Neobabylon Building.

From Quezon City via C-5 Road. Turn left to Fort Bonifacio. Get down at Market Market. Take a jeep to Bayani Road AFPOVAI. Get Down at the Neobabylon Building.

From SLEX via C-5. Get down at Water Fun. Take a jeep going to Bayani Road AFPOVAI. Get Down at the Neobabylon Building.

Map Of Bayani Road, AFPOVAI area:

View Larger Map

Ticket Price:
P360.50 available at the gate or online at ticketworld.com.ph
*3 years old and below is free (though I wouldn't recommend that you bring your kids here).

Some copied text from ticketworld.com.ph

Indie Tip#5 | Travelling to the Philippines: 10 New Filipino Food Pasalubong Gifts To Take Home

noreply@blogger.com (IndieEscape) — Thu, 31 Mar 2011 06:06:00 +0000

Bagoong, anyone?

Whenever there's a chance, kababayans (fellow countrymen) abroad put in a favor to those traveling to the Philippines for a visit. They ask for Filipino food delicacy pasalubongs (take home gifts), even making a list of their favorites.

Aside from basketball and videoke, Filipinos are known to love food. We eat 5-6 times a day - breakfast, midday snack, lunch, afternoon snack (merienda), dinner and sometimes a late night snack. This gastronomic lifestyle is what Filipinos abroad and foreign visitors usually miss when they think about the Philippines.

Although Asian and Filipino stores carry many of the well-known food products from the Philippines, people still continue to hand-carry them when they travel. Maybe because the price is cheaper when bought locally, or the stocks are more recent than what they can source abroad.

You probably already know the usual Filipino food pasalubongs to bring like Mama Sita cooking mixes, dried mangoes, Choc-nut, instant pancit canton, bagoong and sampaloc sweets. So here are my top 10 new pasalubong suggestions that will surely delight your friends and relatives abroad:

Heart attack in a jar

1. Taba ng talangka/Aligue - A sinful orange paste made of crab fat. It's basically heart attack in a jar (sometimes canned). One can use it for cooking or as a dipping sauce. But it is mostly just scooped straight out of the container and mixed onto rice. Taba ng talangka or aligue products can be bought in groceries or food bazaars. Razon's taba ng talangka is a popular brand supposedly consisting of 100% crab fat.

2. Modern Chicharon - Bulacan still has the best Chicharon, in my opinion. But lately there have been new chicharon versions you just have to try. First is the popular pulutan (beer accompaniment) Marty's Vegetarian Chicharon. A product of Oishi snack foods, the package boasts of old fashioned style but guilt free "pork rinds". Indeed they somewhat resemble the taste and texture of real chicharon. You can find bags of these in the chips section of any grocery.

Microwaveable stroke

We all know that chicharons taste best when they are freshly popped but making perfect chicharon is tricky. So, when I came across microwaveable chicharon, I had to give it a second look just to be sure that I read the label right. Filipinos abroad definitely have to try these. They can be bought in 7-11 stores and some groceries.

The one and only: Virgie's Mango Tart

3. Mango tart - This has been around for a while but not many people have tried it. It's a sweet mango empanada (pocket pie) that's so addicting you'd want to keep every piece for yourself. It tastes like mango pie minus the plate mess. They come in a bulk pack or a box, available in groceries.

Eng Bee Tin tikoy (sticky rice cake)

4. Eng Bee Tin - Even without leaving the country, Filipinos are quick to request Eng Bee Tin Hopia and Tikoy products as pasalubongs upon moving away from Manila. Although their products are already obtainable in SM supermarkets, getting them fresh from their shop in Ongpin St., Binondo is different because it is guaranteed fresh. Hopias are neatly packed in plastic foil while the tikoys are now vacuum packed to stay fresh longer.

This + salted egg + tomato chutney = perfect breakfast!

5. Frozen tinapa -Who can resist tinapa in a place where dried fish seems like a banned commodity? (Hint: Northern Hemisphere countries). Tinapa, or smoked fish used to be sold in wet markets, wrapped in used newspaper. Bringing any quantity of it would have raised eyebrows inside an aircraft. Luckily, in recent years, tinapa fishes are sold frozen and vacuum packed.

I want my Bart Burger!

6. Burger Machine - Maybe it's just me, but going through months without eating a Bart Burger (with cheese) from Burger Machine makes me crave it even more. It's the same feeling I get when I miss the West coast's In N Out burger. The best way to keep this fresh is by ordering plain burger and freezing it overnight before your flight. Ketchup, mayo and coleslaw must be in a separate container to prevent the whole thing from getting soggy.

If it's not from Good Sheperd, don't bother.

7. Ube Jam - Sure, anybody can make ube jam. But nobody can make it as creamy and smooth as Good Sheperd Baguio's Mountain Maids! If you happen to visit Baguio on your vacation in the Philippines, bring nothing less than Good Shepherd's Ube Jam.

Mas Masarap

8. Saging na saba -Nothing compares to the taste and texture of our homegrown saging na saba. There may be similar bananas that can be found in Latin America but you'll find your mouth is looking for the taste you grew up with. Saging na saba is used in many desserts and sweet snacks. Aside from that, it is also used for cooking dishes like Nilaga and Arroz ala Cubana. Bottled saging na saba in syrup can be bought in most groceries; I have yet to find one without the syrup, though.

Ready to transport and eat

9. "Gourmet" Anything - If you can't bring balut eggs in their original packaging, the next best thing is the Gourmet Balut. These are seasoned baluts, shelled and bottled so there's less chance of them getting crushed inside your suitcase. Tuyo (dried fish), can also be bought gourmet-style, which translates to scaled, de-boned, seasoned and bottled in oil. There's also the Gourmet itik (duck) which is cooked itik, caldereta-style, neatly packed in a can or a bottle. These are a little hard to come by as they are mostly sold only in food bazaars.

Sweet tooth foodie heaven

10.Rockwell Bakers Fair Finds -A real foodie treat for your kababayan would be something homemade. For a wide selection of foodie sweets, head to Rockwell Powerplant Mall and visit the lower ground floor for its Bakers Fair held every weekend (sometimes daily!). You can get cakes, pastries, cookies, native delicacies and other desserts you might only find in hotels at affordable prices and packaged like the real homemade pasalubong they are.

So, there you go. The pasalubong tradition is definitely one that will last for generations. What do you ask for from your loved ones as pasalubong share them by leaving a comment. Meanwhile, here are the runners up:

1. Homemade squid in black ink
2. Monterey's frozen sisig
3. Bagoong powder

Culture Shock! Philippines: A Survival Guide to Customs and Etiquette (Alfredo R. Roces)

Photo credits:
Mango tart photo edited from virgieshomemade.com
Rockwell Bakers Fair photo taken from yummy.ph
Saging na saba taken from user pinoyoriental in picasaweb
Gourmet/Deli de Lata photo taken from pupta.org

Stone Temple Pilots: Live in Manila 2011

noreply@blogger.com (IndieEscape) — Mon, 28 Feb 2011 02:26:00 +0000

Stone Temple Pilots
Live in Manila
March 9, 2011 - Wednesday - 7:30 PM
Araneta Coliseum, Cubao, Quezon City MANILA, Philippines

Ticket prices:
VIP(103&101 ROWS A-J) (Reserved Seating): P5810
PATRON (Reserved Seating): P4760
LOWER BOX (Reserved Seating): P3700
UPPER BOX A (Reserved Seating): P2640
UPPER BOX B: P1590
GENERAL ADMISSION: P530

Map of Araneta Center Cubao (Araneta Coliseum):

View Larger Map

For ticket reservations and inquiries, click here (Ticketnet). Ticketnet hotline: +632 911-5555.

Event organized by Ovation Productions.